Mike Modano’s backyard

On Friday we’re shooting Mike Modano’s backyard. I’m kind of nervous and excited about it, because he’s famous. The yard is charming, however. A nice guy named Jarod Cossell brought it to us. Cossell, who owns Earthquake Exteriors (what a name!), worked closely with Mandy Modano (a.k.a. Willa Ford) to design it, and it’s got a definite Italian feel to it, which she loves. Lots of wonderful fountains made from huge urns, and beautiful stone unearthed from a small quarry in Arkansas. You’ll get to see the Modano’s yard, along with the Modanos themselves barbequeing, in our July issue. Mike has promised us some of his favorite recipes. We figure they’ll go something like this,”Put steak on grill.”

We’re game.

Farewell, You Bunch of Pansies

When I lovingly plant pansies each October, I know this day will come. 

After all, They consipire and turn on me every April.  Therefore, I bid my pansies adieu, all 5,000 of them.  I’m making room for a bevy of new spring plantings as we speak.   I have much more room than last year, though.  Sadly, I lost 1600 snapdragons to aphids.  Sound familiar? 

Peacock Alley at Vintage Living

One of our very favorite linen collections is now at Vintage Living in Snider Plaza. Peacock Alley used to be downstairs in our building - very convenient for a little product pick up, then they moved to Postal Way. That’s right, over by the main post office - not so convenient. Love the linens, hate the drive. So, we’re excited to have them in the ‘hood at one of our favorite stores. Check out the trunk show on Friday, May 2, along with new linens from Matteo.

Fete du Muguet at Yves Delorme

That’s Mother’s Day to you, or sort of - the French celebration of spring, the scent of lily-of-the-valley, and the love of children for their mothers. Hello? Are any of my children reading this? Yves Delorme celebrates this special day with gifts of robes, sleepwear, candles, and fragrant soaps. All with a savings of 30%. Which is great, because I don’t know about yours, but my children never have any money.

Pineider Comes to the Nest

The darling Nest is now carrying Italian luxury leather and paper goods maker Pineider, which opened in Florence in 1774. According to Pineider, it “has remained a point of reference for people who love style, beauty and the refined culture of writing.” If you are one of these people, a set that includes clients the Pope and Madonna, then head to the Nest for exquisite writing papers (home stationery at left) and desk sets. Owner Heather Wiese-Alexander’s Snider Plaza store is the only one in the South carrying the goods.

Hello? Is This Thing On….check…check…check…

Since Rebecca said I would blog this morning, here I am. Yes, I am nervous. You know what they say about public speaking, imagine your audience is…naked. That’s what I am doing right now. All of you…in the buff. I feel much better.

Confession? I’m technology-phobic. Check back later today, after I figure out how this new fangled blog machine works. I have to buy some sod, but I’ll be right back. In the meantime, I humbly offer this.