tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87429125156921024852024-03-07T20:19:34.294-08:00Pretty in BleuTHE MARIE ANTOINETTE STYLE BLOGR*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-22800973209049226792010-05-18T07:59:00.000-07:002010-05-18T08:53:34.524-07:00Book Review: Georgiana: Duchess of Devonshire<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQP0zhBU-HN-wqKBfvKyjFX8Xpe1p1gNP4dxJuPrt4Dnco1cu8VT8UPls9isOMb9nyZ73jOY4wFp65IgEzWUk12wtx2aoZo3hyvLIuxkYLj3ns6azBa9v3zcNWQjRr0G2uoANBHNQnDA/s1600/georgiana-duchess-of-devonshire.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 130px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQP0zhBU-HN-wqKBfvKyjFX8Xpe1p1gNP4dxJuPrt4Dnco1cu8VT8UPls9isOMb9nyZ73jOY4wFp65IgEzWUk12wtx2aoZo3hyvLIuxkYLj3ns6azBa9v3zcNWQjRr0G2uoANBHNQnDA/s200/georgiana-duchess-of-devonshire.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472625789528794802" border="0" /></a><br />I recently read the biography <span style="font-style: italic;">Georgiana: Duchess of Devonshire</span> by Amanda Foreman, and thought I'd give my review of the book. If you are interested in Marie Antoinette and her time period, then this is a must-read! Georgiana, the wife of the 5th Duke of Devonshire, lived an intriguing life filled with politics, fame, extraordinary wealth, and scandal. She was also, as the book mentions, a close friend of Marie Antoinette. The author does mention that with the onset of the French Revolution, it became increasingly difficult for the two to keep in contact.<br />Reading Georgiana was almost like reading a novel--I found the story to be captivating and extremely interesting. Amanda Foreman has obviously done her research with this book, because it is filled with all the details you'd want to know. There are plenty of various letters and documents referenced as well, which really give you a peek into the time period and makes it feel all the more "real". And, most importantly, I found this biography to be a very intimate look into Georgiana's life--reading about her triumphs and struggles made her seem like a real woman with human faults, not just a celebrity who lived a seemingly glamorous life.<br />It should also be noted that this is the book upon which the recent movie, The Duchess, is based on. If you saw the movie and liked it, then this is a must-read book! Although the movie is great, it only focuses on a few select events taken from the book. <span style="font-style: italic;">Georgiana: Duchess of Devonshire </span>will give you the full story of this woman's fascinating life.<br />Buy the book on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Georgiana-Duchess-Devonshire-Amanda-Foreman/dp/0375753834">Amazon</a>.<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-46900740550953847432010-05-05T16:11:00.000-07:002010-05-05T16:14:35.819-07:00Coming back againI know it's been forever since I've posted here, but I'd really like to get back into this blog. New posts are coming soon! Look for some book reviews, as I've read some great books that are about Marie Antoinette or her time period in general. As always, if you know of or have any great links/resources on anything Marie Antoinette, please send them my way by leaving a comment! Thanks!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">-R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-16019967503444360982009-08-31T13:45:00.001-07:002009-08-31T13:50:29.490-07:00Interview on costume jewelry collectingThis interesting article was brought to my attention by a reader, and it's worth checking out if you have any interest in vintage jewelry, from any era:<br /><a href="http://www.collectorsweekly.com/articles/an-interview-with-vintage-costume-jewelry-collector-carole-tanenbaum/">Click here for the interview</a><br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-63176371071848717292009-02-22T14:42:00.000-08:002009-02-22T15:02:12.140-08:00Jewelry obsessionI love Etsy.com-- I can spend hours just looking at all the amazing things people make and sell on there. One of my favorite things to browse through is the jewelry-you can't beat the handmade pieces for creativity. My latest jewelry obsession happens to be an Etsy find:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhimdQyPBJ7iQKgvLr3M-53nd3drkWTYyhCIVUL5GpvOzOYu5cE7gj8Xm34j4O4nFDi8vQTl69f5TMn4zgCJ6G4frQsRq7gNY2FQLzbB9Ze6kNfUuFN3uVtefXwQZOuDNhSL-Mh0C5W0dg/s1600-h/earrings1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 176px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhimdQyPBJ7iQKgvLr3M-53nd3drkWTYyhCIVUL5GpvOzOYu5cE7gj8Xm34j4O4nFDi8vQTl69f5TMn4zgCJ6G4frQsRq7gNY2FQLzbB9Ze6kNfUuFN3uVtefXwQZOuDNhSL-Mh0C5W0dg/s200/earrings1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305756729291535522" border="0" /></a>These beauties, aptly-named "<span style="font-size:100%;">Marie Antoinette Opulent Earrings with Faceted Glass Jewels</span>", are so glamorous yet so simple. I think they capture the elegance of Marie Antoinette's style just right! They're by designer <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_5&listing_id=20822764&ga_search_query=marie+antoinette&ga_search_type=tag_title_all">laralewis</a> for $24.<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span><br /><br />Know of any great Marie-inspired jewelry finds? Leave me a comment! (I'm working on setting up an e-mail address specifically for this blog)R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-10480603103906741412009-02-10T16:32:00.001-08:002009-02-10T16:33:21.207-08:00New pollI have just posted a new weekly poll on the right-hand side of this page--scroll down a bit and you'll see it!<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-85271373015529863862009-02-08T05:40:00.000-08:002009-02-08T05:56:39.277-08:00Back for the new yearYou might have noticed that this blog hasn't been updated in several months. I debated whether or not I should continue with the hiatus or just stop blogging altogether. I've decided, though, to come back to it. Since my last post I have visited <span style="font-weight: bold;">Paris</span> for the first time<span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>! Visiting that beautiful city was one of the best experiences I've ever had so far, and I look forward to visit again soon. My trip also included a visit to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Versailles</span>, which was really one of the highlights for me...it was fascinating to actually "be there" and see everything for yourself. I came back with a few souvenirs: two 18th-century fashion plates postcards, which I will post later because I plan to use them as decoration in some way, and some apple candies...the package said they were made from apples in the King's Garden, and they were delicious! I highly recommend buying these from the souvenir shop there if you ever visit.<br />That aside, my point of this post is to basically get back into this blog, updating it with anything and everything Marie Antoinette-related! I'm always up for new ideas, so any comments/suggestions on what you'd like to see on this blog are welcome!<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-91550448852965825262008-09-14T18:21:00.000-07:002008-09-14T18:28:47.246-07:00An entrance fit for a queen<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_aNzKwAnzUsriAmHfKP5gBoptpu8Jas4wi5PL1Xfygv54SZ1uQZsJYOgs75PFK0M5SGt_s4IlRpTff2xuZDFf4_SOKUq1gOGzaOYOe4yU5Hfsfwm-iR_vll37KhNa5r5ZPEDatSb0gDc/s1600-h/royal+gate.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 167px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_aNzKwAnzUsriAmHfKP5gBoptpu8Jas4wi5PL1Xfygv54SZ1uQZsJYOgs75PFK0M5SGt_s4IlRpTff2xuZDFf4_SOKUq1gOGzaOYOe4yU5Hfsfwm-iR_vll37KhNa5r5ZPEDatSb0gDc/s200/royal+gate.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246052294014959074" border="0" /></a>I am amazed at what people can do when it comes to restoring historical places and objects. Just take a look at the photo on the left, of the recently restored Royal Gate at Versailles. I must say it looks pretty magnificent. It is now located in the Palace courtyard for all to see as they enter. The project to restore the gate, which disappeared during the French Revolution, began two years ago and was finally completed in July of this year. The entire project(or feat I should say) cost 9 million Euros to complete, or almost 13 million USD! There are other restoration projects that have been happening at the Palace--you can find out more about them at the official Chateau de Versailles <a href="http://www.chateauversailles.fr/">website</a>.<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-64206997433203246902008-09-07T09:03:00.000-07:002008-09-07T09:18:00.329-07:00Hats hats & more hatsWhile recently browsing on Etsy, I stumbled upon Marie Antoinette-inspired <strong>hats</strong>! They are absolutely gorgeous, take a look for yourself:<br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing_id=12010474">Click!</a> <--This hat is my favourite, it's called the "Lady Lyndon".<br /><br />I also discovered <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14963035">this amazing hat</a>, it looks like a recreation of Marie Antoinette's famous hair design of a ship!<br /><br />Here is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing_id=6410796">another hat </a>I liked by the same designer as the one above, Topsy Turvy Design.<br /><br />I'm amazed at what people can create....<br /><br />-<em>R*</em>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-23342190137597637542008-08-06T12:35:00.000-07:002008-08-06T12:47:16.796-07:00Perfect for that 18th-century glow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsIa9ayaoDKDdaM4UBrandJcQBeAqN4Hk2k16-XBvc104BIfd29abb7hyphenhyphen9J_xoA1bklbiqNRhXSzZyPPV22CjKIB339cqxJbxg32gHQwyzTtreHnx2shgjHvLE-u3vSUY63vcmFF8nYKg/s1600-h/CG25FU-Rice-Paper-Candle-Holder.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 155px; height: 233px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsIa9ayaoDKDdaM4UBrandJcQBeAqN4Hk2k16-XBvc104BIfd29abb7hyphenhyphen9J_xoA1bklbiqNRhXSzZyPPV22CjKIB339cqxJbxg32gHQwyzTtreHnx2shgjHvLE-u3vSUY63vcmFF8nYKg/s200/CG25FU-Rice-Paper-Candle-Holder.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5231491957215681362" border="0" /></a><br />Awhile ago I was surfing around the web, looking at different kinds of lighting, and somehow came across these sweet <a href="http://www.lunabazaar.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1246">candle holders</a>. I'll admit I have a fascination with all kinds of decorative lighting, and candles are no exception. And yet again, here is something with the fleur-de-lis. If you look at my past blog posts you'll also see plenty of other fleur-de-lis related objects. These are made of glass and covered in rice paper, and they're available in multiple colours. However, my favourites are the pink and blue ones. These would look great if several of them were lined up on a dining room table or a mantel, casting a beautiful light!<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-15192627514850568732008-07-05T07:32:00.000-07:002008-12-11T16:42:40.031-08:00My 1st Pink Saturday!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqC7Uvy_qGoExq8XZiabMorWHoBMYHhH2CLgofhFS9GlI2oJJDzQ5ZFqNqYA1ETUbjmuTER9dS77HcgS-VkZg_WMP7JTh6x_Gee6667GnUuykB6QOHvXhCCjQJw7tQMlud8rhZJAeuBGo/s1600-h/DSCN4433.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 191px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqC7Uvy_qGoExq8XZiabMorWHoBMYHhH2CLgofhFS9GlI2oJJDzQ5ZFqNqYA1ETUbjmuTER9dS77HcgS-VkZg_WMP7JTh6x_Gee6667GnUuykB6QOHvXhCCjQJw7tQMlud8rhZJAeuBGo/s200/DSCN4433.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219541503476917282" border="0" /></a><br />I came across the idea of <a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/">Pink Saturday</a> last week and decided to join in. So today marks my first post for Pink Saturday, where I share something <span style="font-weight: bold;">pink</span>! This week I am sharing this teacup and saucer in my dining room (hopefully the picture is not too fuzzy, it's difficult taking pictures without flash! You can enlarge the picture for a better view). It's not completely pink, but I think the pink flowers and trim on it is what makes it so sweet. I had never noticed before, but when I looked on the bottom I discovered it was made by Shelley China, in England.<br />I think teacups are so much fun to look at, and they're great to collect and decorate with!<br /><br />I'm looking forward to my next Pink Saturday...<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span><br /><br />-R*R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-74719687523421545202008-07-02T09:57:00.000-07:002008-12-11T16:42:40.233-08:00Let them eat cake...on these plates!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThJ6zeGnRZxIgMfufVl_GVg-WYdFVGFpUAoxcZwUQmSaLtk1jZoziYnXXi7Ieoi83EYUSkE7Vzx2CK9gNI4OGk1TQiuQsi-kYYmzqAu-YBuT_qtpkUn74ye5cHVXV8UVEkynOaXJfvLI/s1600-h/maplates.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThJ6zeGnRZxIgMfufVl_GVg-WYdFVGFpUAoxcZwUQmSaLtk1jZoziYnXXi7Ieoi83EYUSkE7Vzx2CK9gNI4OGk1TQiuQsi-kYYmzqAu-YBuT_qtpkUn74ye5cHVXV8UVEkynOaXJfvLI/s200/maplates.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218463748579174498" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style=";font-family:Baskerville Old Face;font-size:130%;" >I found these while doing some online window shopping, and think they are just too cute. Aren't they unique? Each of these cakeplates showcases Marie Antoinette in a different outfit, with the name of one of her homes next to it. You can buy the set of 4 for $39.99 at <a href="http://www.decorativedishes.net/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/16702/subcatid/0/id/253714">Decorative Dishes</a>. While you're there, check out some of the ot</span><span style=";font-family:Baskerville Old Face;font-size:130%;" >her "Rosanna" designs, they're re</span><span style="font-family:Baskerville Old Face;"><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;" >ally <span style="font-size:100%;">fun to look at!</span><br /><br />-</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;" >R*</span><br /></span></div>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-86442071987659114092008-06-30T08:03:00.000-07:002008-06-30T08:08:07.059-07:00Diamonds vs. PearlsSince it's been so long since I updated my weekly poll, I had a grand total of 50 votes!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Question:</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 153, 255);font-family:Georgia;" ><b>Which do you prefer in jewelry?</b></span><br />Diamonds: 31<br />Pearls: 11<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Georgia;font-size:100%;" >Something more colorful like emeralds, rubies, etc</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 153, 255);font-family:Georgia;font-size:100%;" ><nobr></nobr></span>: 8<br /><br />So, the answer must be that diamonds really are a girl's best friend!<br />Check back soon for a new weekly poll!<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-69433215221129169992008-06-29T08:14:00.000-07:002008-06-29T08:25:55.758-07:00Coming backI know it's been <span style="font-style: italic;">six monthes</span>(!!) since I've last blogged, but I'm coming back into the blogging world, slowly but surely! If there was an award for bad bloggers, I would get it. I really have missed it, and I look forward to blogging again and making Pretty in Bleu better than ever. So, check back soon for my first real post after half a year!R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-89499941912778153392008-01-26T07:13:00.000-08:002008-12-11T16:42:40.472-08:00Are diamonds really a girl's best friend?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim_26KYrLFYXXRWG9W1SGcfmkXv1U5kFJyNHc-T7GpHm53LdTRCc6dlUcACOIWb0aVbJhWUIVKQHznVOiCkD4_9zEYcfA7EBSUVcHkgqV6coKYOwxOJcbm3KLkHpAJFpRFrzuHH4lZu6Q/s1600-h/manecklace.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim_26KYrLFYXXRWG9W1SGcfmkXv1U5kFJyNHc-T7GpHm53LdTRCc6dlUcACOIWb0aVbJhWUIVKQHznVOiCkD4_9zEYcfA7EBSUVcHkgqV6coKYOwxOJcbm3KLkHpAJFpRFrzuHH4lZu6Q/s200/manecklace.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159805793987193810" border="0" /></a>You decide! I've just put up a new weekly poll on the right hand side, you may have to scroll down to get to it. The question is, "Which do you prefer in jewelry.....diamonds, pearls, or something more colorful(i.e. emeralds)?" I'm interested to know whether diamonds really do trump all other jewels. So if you have a moment, please feel free to answer the new poll!<br /><br />**The necklace design shown at left has a rather notorious history. Find out at <a href="http://www.marie-antoinette.org/Articles/Entries/1997/1/1_The_Diamond_Necklace_Affair.html">Marie Antoinette Online</a>.<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-14197375611275977982008-01-24T18:20:00.000-08:002008-01-26T07:07:50.801-08:00Design InspirationOk, so I had my weekly poll up for a very long time. But, I was interested in knowing of more people's opinions...<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Question:</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Where do you take your design inspiration from?</span><br />Magazines and catalogs: 4<br />Other's homes: 0<br />Movies: 1<br />Flea markets: 2<br />Exotic locales while travelling: 0<br />A little bit of everything: 17<br /><br />Judging from the majority of votes, our design inspiration is not merely from magazine's ideas. The inspiration is everywhere you look! Check back soon for a new poll...<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-7098591206957900442008-01-20T08:40:00.000-08:002008-12-11T16:42:40.849-08:00Pom Pom Interiors<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDFqaak8QoQTTWK0qR1O8lihGzYG6r5ACN7xmv5M1crmz36-0wbVQXdJiuzqcb0qwfdzMGvkCJ92p2KE3eRjytwKf_dS17mPOBvyP08qWSioO7YX6bcXe_osBc7OA0KHKKKZ9-obhUOk/s1600-h/pompom2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDFqaak8QoQTTWK0qR1O8lihGzYG6r5ACN7xmv5M1crmz36-0wbVQXdJiuzqcb0qwfdzMGvkCJ92p2KE3eRjytwKf_dS17mPOBvyP08qWSioO7YX6bcXe_osBc7OA0KHKKKZ9-obhUOk/s200/pompom2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157600509451508370" border="0" /></a>I'm back for the new year! I hope everyone has had a good 2008 so far! Awhile back I discovered the store <a href="http://www.pompominteriors.com/code/index.html">Pom Pom Interior</a>s and meant to do a blog post about it, so here it is. Located in Los Angeles (there are 2 locations there), Pom Pom Interiors is really a dream for those who love to shop for the home. More specifically, those who love to mix elegance, some shabby chic, and a touch of European style to their decorating. They offer vintage furniture, home accessories, lighting, and even something for the garden. If you are looking for something unique to add to your space, this is the place to go! My personal favorite are the gorgeous chandeliers from Europe--so very Marie Antoinette! If you're in the LA area, I'd suggest you check them out.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwpkbhZ80EauQ_Dg6T9Hvg60otrR7RS4qL3ebh8oG_tA4mZZwJ4gU_7hFwRfH2ngTxdEncj8EfyUfypvRf2Nb3lUaiu-qq48t28to_xRlIlunIta1OhY8iNwb6Z0mhRDYnyAUwUylY-2U/s1600-h/pompom1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwpkbhZ80EauQ_Dg6T9Hvg60otrR7RS4qL3ebh8oG_tA4mZZwJ4gU_7hFwRfH2ngTxdEncj8EfyUfypvRf2Nb3lUaiu-qq48t28to_xRlIlunIta1OhY8iNwb6Z0mhRDYnyAUwUylY-2U/s200/pompom1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157604362037172898" border="0" /></a>-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-85402688130689151562007-12-25T19:02:00.000-08:002008-12-11T16:42:41.219-08:00Merry Christmas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucvpxFMyJ0sJ8cEjIpvSgRDDChNTsjIsiHwJXnw_FQhRDaasYxy29CLZ4_IAjADGr22HupnovMTWv9jyqS0CqC9-MXnafsycZupzBqpEL-OlcUMQUKkpI9iX2bfz24oElDDRWL_3TtSs/s1600-h/varia_christmas_candles2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucvpxFMyJ0sJ8cEjIpvSgRDDChNTsjIsiHwJXnw_FQhRDaasYxy29CLZ4_IAjADGr22HupnovMTWv9jyqS0CqC9-MXnafsycZupzBqpEL-OlcUMQUKkpI9iX2bfz24oElDDRWL_3TtSs/s200/varia_christmas_candles2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5148112286744517250" border="0" /></a><br />Just wanted to make a quick post to wish everyone a very merry Christmas! Hope it was a good one...I'll be going out of town for a while, so I'll be back in the new year. So..happy new year as well!<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-86459853579743941032007-12-21T08:17:00.000-08:002007-12-21T08:21:00.941-08:00New LookIn case you haven't noticed, I have a lovely new banner on top of my blog. It was designed by Kimberly Ryan from <a href="http://kimberlyryanart.blogspot.com/">Kimberly Ryan Art</a>. A big thanks to her for doing this! Go check out her creative blog, it's great!<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-84086964080664185402007-11-17T12:02:00.000-08:002008-12-11T16:42:41.524-08:00More Fleur de Lis jewelryI've just discovered more Fleur-de-lis jewelry at <a href="http://www.tarinatarantino.com/">Tarina Tarantino</a>! Both the earrings and necklace are so pretty, especially if you want a more modern way to wear the iconic Fleur de lis.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHeOa_Xq0aiE6ugE60ze1mh91ABTnm5N1wcwF7wKxcwgGpkQ3j2JglA8UPNHlrEwE-z8zm27K70Gj1Tc_L2fVuMMLLshl3_yNWsA93zyyEfKvezFnyW1SYcbAda6MOsBlsWgP0toVjiFI/s1600-h/fleurdelisearrings3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 166px; height: 166px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHeOa_Xq0aiE6ugE60ze1mh91ABTnm5N1wcwF7wKxcwgGpkQ3j2JglA8UPNHlrEwE-z8zm27K70Gj1Tc_L2fVuMMLLshl3_yNWsA93zyyEfKvezFnyW1SYcbAda6MOsBlsWgP0toVjiFI/s200/fleurdelisearrings3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133903036304982994" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fleur-de-Lis Drop Earrings, $70</span><br />These are made of lucite and Swarovski crystals. They're available in black or white also.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kV6uvTiiI1KaCORWF0teUG40Fu0MVaTtTSdC1kCMGWJ-hzHxgC8lGfUvEf7XEY64epa6mpPyWJ9RG3aaVYiAX-eMy4g-qHMgVEfx6hMIXJkECpJ7Rmp1Cgv6W3AL12xJRdOx7ZO1ZGg/s1600-h/fleurdelisnecklace2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 176px; height: 176px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kV6uvTiiI1KaCORWF0teUG40Fu0MVaTtTSdC1kCMGWJ-hzHxgC8lGfUvEf7XEY64epa6mpPyWJ9RG3aaVYiAX-eMy4g-qHMgVEfx6hMIXJkECpJ7Rmp1Cgv6W3AL12xJRdOx7ZO1ZGg/s200/fleurdelisnecklace2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133903517341320162" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Long Fleur-de-Lis Necklace, $170</span><br />This 42-in. long necklace is also made of lucite beads and Swarovski crystal drops, and available in black or white.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This jewelry can be purchased at the online shop at tarinatarantino.com<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span><br /></div></div>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-4048146380738581532007-10-17T14:20:00.000-07:002008-12-11T16:42:42.479-08:00Roses, roses, and more roses!I just realized I have a lot of rose-themed trinkets...and one of them I just recently found for a mere 75 cents at a flea-market! I couldn't resist this little porcelain box...it just screamed Marie Antoinette! (click on picture for larger image)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZ781TWtbHTgRf4_AOzapO-JNaNqS0cAbn5jqLjg8yf2iPdeByjdQZWlX0ZtphjRvEo7o03hMbQm-DmCAmIyMr98h2H1vUnmoi3UZhMz71fmoTe25NGMFz95A7pLuhdI0m1tMy5D19-o/s1600-h/DSCN3470.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZ781TWtbHTgRf4_AOzapO-JNaNqS0cAbn5jqLjg8yf2iPdeByjdQZWlX0ZtphjRvEo7o03hMbQm-DmCAmIyMr98h2H1vUnmoi3UZhMz71fmoTe25NGMFz95A7pLuhdI0m1tMy5D19-o/s200/DSCN3470.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122422887636682562" border="0" /></a><br />I also have a rose music box thats plays Pachelbel's <span style="font-style: italic;">Canon in D</span>. It was a First Communion gift years ago, and it's from <a href="http://www.sfmusicbox.com/">The San Francisco Music Box Company</a>. I absolutely love the intricacies of the design.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQT5cVhyphenhyphenpWGyw86FVfiJprY73kx4TfombHMsqZv3pLvqVdBRIcEs7AbPr8lJQBo_7vUSMjs9e_k0NiD_UCzNxNjwaqwcJM4iopc1aZs5ladr9lXbUbkwX-pbPXVeBvYOF2LFV3oeE7eSc/s1600-h/DSCN3471.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQT5cVhyphenhyphenpWGyw86FVfiJprY73kx4TfombHMsqZv3pLvqVdBRIcEs7AbPr8lJQBo_7vUSMjs9e_k0NiD_UCzNxNjwaqwcJM4iopc1aZs5ladr9lXbUbkwX-pbPXVeBvYOF2LFV3oeE7eSc/s200/DSCN3471.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122424274911119186" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkN78-eMgY7TVKp7CQhRBZRtq2bbijpZvOmajOUaWshOP1wKD9pB1M5BBBWtsHe-BaePWWE-LF3W0k7hzXpuBloFT8X8cWq1ENpWcSgku-Dwnb8Xtt2d60nPXAgIKQg9OmYDanJO6cQs/s1600-h/DSCN3472.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkN78-eMgY7TVKp7CQhRBZRtq2bbijpZvOmajOUaWshOP1wKD9pB1M5BBBWtsHe-BaePWWE-LF3W0k7hzXpuBloFT8X8cWq1ENpWcSgku-Dwnb8Xtt2d60nPXAgIKQg9OmYDanJO6cQs/s200/DSCN3472.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122425305703270274" border="0" /></a>I think the pink velvet lining adds just the right touch!<br /><br />And finally... a rose jewelry box...it's not <span style="font-style: italic;">exactly</span> Marie Antoinette-ish, but I think the painted roses and gold edges are beautiful!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_yr4yepUT5FWz_cJI4ZV0N0uZnEPIre-GA2BWPTRIhywVWc9JjES6HgKqplO7Gy9a8XnuKyAQr2f3CUfxTmrDY30rJPmHnHpEcy7FPwkjVgiQNCzCdW1-Aofs0ALHdhqNHKlbTqkyozE/s1600-h/DSCN3473.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_yr4yepUT5FWz_cJI4ZV0N0uZnEPIre-GA2BWPTRIhywVWc9JjES6HgKqplO7Gy9a8XnuKyAQr2f3CUfxTmrDY30rJPmHnHpEcy7FPwkjVgiQNCzCdW1-Aofs0ALHdhqNHKlbTqkyozE/s200/DSCN3473.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122426100272220050" border="0" /></a><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-76227681595296171252007-10-15T16:23:00.000-07:002007-10-15T16:25:30.961-07:00Why hello!Well, after that lonnnng break from blogging, I am finally back! I missed it too much, and I am so eager to catch up on all of your blogs I enjoy reading. I have new treasures I can't wait to show on here, and lots of great ideas! So check back within the next couple days, and if you have any input please share it!<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-87957295853227512172007-08-22T10:47:00.000-07:002007-08-22T10:49:18.139-07:00Where have I been?Sorry for the lack of postage, everyone. I've been out of town the past 2 weeks, first to Massachusetts, then to West Virginia. I just got back today. I'll be back to posting again soon once I get settled in...<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-79641132423685445652007-08-01T13:28:00.000-07:002008-12-11T16:42:42.657-08:00Eat in style<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-y98sr46teGpDS2_r-grJKVQil30OzmyanIBY9NX7648RytjgXoP7uxQnu94ctecG8RYoGo6L-nON_oAV0XPjyeL_VmgSOREWHLhrrKzviF5fJOgUrHfN6DZEhqfg-qVOyCcMdcJCBAE/s1600-h/marieadinnerware.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 223px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-y98sr46teGpDS2_r-grJKVQil30OzmyanIBY9NX7648RytjgXoP7uxQnu94ctecG8RYoGo6L-nON_oAV0XPjyeL_VmgSOREWHLhrrKzviF5fJOgUrHfN6DZEhqfg-qVOyCcMdcJCBAE/s320/marieadinnerware.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5093832019797305170" border="0" /></a>Just looking at this picture makes me want to drink more tea. This "Marie Antoinette" dinnerware set, made of Limoges porcelain in France, to me captures the elegance of Marie Antoinette and 18th century Versailles. While I'm sure they possibly could have used even more ornate dinnerware and teacups, this set could complement today's living room decor easily. Prices vary($74-$389) for the 5-piece plate setting, dinner plate, salad plate, bread/butter plate, and cup/saucer set. Available at www.graciousstyle.com<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-57464806316744397672007-07-27T06:58:00.000-07:002007-07-27T07:12:17.243-07:00Dressing Marie AntoinetteIf you like fashions of Marie Antoinette's era, check out the Yahoo group "Dressing Marie Antoinette". I've been a member for some time now, and the group mainly focuses on recreating costumes seen in the movie and portraits of the queen. I of course, have sewing skills nowhere <span style="font-style: italic;">near</span> those of some of the members in this group. The costumes some members have made or are working on are really spectacular--the trimmings, the fabric choices, and embroidery are beautiful. Not to mention they even involve real corsets and hoop skirts for true authenticity! I think you have to be a member to view the posts and photos. Even if you don't sew lavish costumes, you can join if you like to discuss fashions and costumes of the era in general.<br /><br /><tt><center><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dressingmarieantoinette/join"><img src="http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/yg/img/i/us/ui/join.gif" alt="Click here to join dressingmarieantoinette" border="0" /><br />Click to join dressingmarieantoinette</a><br /></center></tt><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span><br /><tt><br /></tt>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8742912515692102485.post-88785790718218395812007-07-13T08:02:00.000-07:002008-12-11T16:42:42.894-08:00Chocolate, anyone?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif210Vn8_ETiVyCeMYBcHPdRX8fqUE3-bnDA18DzKrnpdUv2PtZZmZxyKTmY6jCa_JoY_dqAv4QVAxzMKOo8ggUcMIagDbwSLpEXf-0h4VjR294ZiwW4vQqXGTx1c8d3NCariI46Ixn-w/s1600-h/richart1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 177px; height: 170px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif210Vn8_ETiVyCeMYBcHPdRX8fqUE3-bnDA18DzKrnpdUv2PtZZmZxyKTmY6jCa_JoY_dqAv4QVAxzMKOo8ggUcMIagDbwSLpEXf-0h4VjR294ZiwW4vQqXGTx1c8d3NCariI46Ixn-w/s200/richart1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5086700809059300930" border="0" /></a>I admit I had my last poll up for longer than a week, but here are the results from 24 people total:<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Question:</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">What is your favorite delectable dessert?</span><br />Cake: 5<br />Anything chocolate: 7<br />I like to be healthy and eat fruit: 2<br />I scream for ice cream: 5<br />Macarons of course: 5<br />Other: 0<br /><br />I see there are plenty of other chocoholics out there, like me! But really, who can choose just one "favorite dessert"? I personally love them all!<br />I now have a new poll in the yellow box on the right, so please take it! Thanks!<br /><br />*Note-The chocolate pictured on the left is the "Ligne Classique" from Richart, available for $23.50. Mmmmmmm...............<br /><br />-<span style="font-style: italic;">R*</span>R*http://www.blogger.com/profile/14043973098435500578noreply@blogger.com5