Forecast…COLD

January 13, 2013

Time to throw another blanket on. My modern interpretation of the classic Hudson Bay Blanket should warm things up nicely, like only a wool blanket can. Simple garter rows in Berroco Vintage Chunky and some size ten sticks make for a thick knit, heavy enough to protect from any draft or chill. Pair it up with some flannel sheets and a vintage quilt and you may not want to crawl out from under it until spring…which I hear in Montana, where this was sent, comes rather late.newhudsonbay6fnewhudson9fCopy of newhudsonbay1fsilohouseMT2

It all starts here …

January 10, 2013

with the simple basics. Tablet or pad? Stylus or pen? With all of the available and new technology the best things for getting the job done are still the tried and true…the Project pad, the Sharpie, the Uniball fine point. I’d be lost without them (ask my friends and associates, without my tools I can get kinda cranky). Things for me run more efficiently when I’m using tools that I like and that do the best job for me. From an early punch list, beginning sketches, plan developement to checking off completed tasks nothing beats these three for getting things done, and there is nothing to plug in and recharge. So I’m starting off this New Year as always…with my new box of Sharpies, Uniballs and a pack of Tops project pads. OK,  now I’m happy. Let’s get to work. projpad_penFpenspadFSketch2F

It’s definitely green

January 7, 2013

We may not all be as lucky as Angelina Joli …what with these simplequietdropdead emerald earings, but there will soon be verdant options for the rest of us. The Pantone selection for color of the year 2013 is Emerald. While Pantone believes in its universal appeal, it’s not for everyone. Yet, everyone will be seeing it used everywhere and on everything…coffee mugs to evening gowns, wallpaper to bath towels.  Let’s hope we will benefit from its symbolism of clarity, growth , renewal and prosperity as well as its positive affects toward healing and unity

pantonecolor-1354774202_600LG

resiz_Angelina-Jolie-Earringshttp://www.thejewelexpert.com/2012/10/celebrity-emeralds/

Speaking of…

January 4, 2013

time, OMG…one year of sqm come and gone. Yep, simplequietmodern is one year old today. Someone once said that ” If you genuinely have something to say, there is someone out there who genuinely needs to hear it”. That’s pretty simple. Apparently I spoke and you listened…I’m so very grateful…for that, and most especially for  my new friends around the world who have touched me with their inspiration, their support, their kind words. I have received every compliment humbly, felt every hug, laughed out loud when it was needed the most. I hope I am able to do likewise for you. Thank You. Now, let’s get back to the business of living life simplequietmodern. Hey, should we be having cake?sprk2aFKirstenChocCkw_stwbrrieswhtWntrPrrtsF

Cake and photo courtesy of Kirsten Johnstone http://www.kirstenjohnstone.com/blog/

OK, and maybe some flowers.

Time…

January 1, 2013

it has a way of creeping up on you, doesn’t it?  Or, is it time “marching on” that’s the problem. In any case, what better way to keep track of those fleeting moments than with this 1947 design by George Nelson…his Tripod Desk Clock ( we should all still look this good at 66). As we close the door on 2012 and look forward to every joyful second of the New Year 2013, an occasional glance at this modern gem on your desk or your nightstand should keep you right on schedule. Happy New Year! GnelsonClkGroup

http://hivemodern.com/pages/product624/vitra-george-nelson-tripod-clock

It’s clear…

December 29, 2012

that you have to arm yourself against the suns damaging rays. Still, you look at the beauty of a Winter sunrise…sky clear, snow sparkling…and the those bright Winter rays burning a hole right through your retina and making a bee-line to the center of your brain. Yikes…already a major headache and you haven’t even opened the first of your morning email. Simplequietmodern solution… select any of the frames available with tinted lenses from Lookmatic… like their Reeve…in black, gray or tortoise. Your eyes will thank you, your associates will thank you, and you’ll be putting a modern face forward in the process. If you happen to have  received some Christmas cash that’s burning a hole in your wallet…even better.sno_sun_faviCopy of 70598_Reeve_BlackClear_Face

http://www.lookmatic.com/men/reeve-black-clear/sunglasses

Sunrise photo:http://favimages.com/image/274219/

New Years Eve?  Going out on Amateur Night?   Yikes!…no.  A small gathering in with friends could be the perfect simplequietmodern plan. A few small plates and something sparkling in the beverage department will easily satisfy with a minimum of stress. If you whip up some tasty Greek meatballs during the week you can freeze them and reheat while your guests are enjoying their first beverage. Add some pita, tziki…and a big Greek salad, all easily prepared earlier in the day (or even better…ordered and picked up “to go”). Don’t forget the Baklava for a sweet note and you are done, done and done. How simple was that? You’re welcome.grkmtbllsingr6Fgrkmtbllsflr5Fgrkmtbllsdn2Ftzikimtblls2aFGrkmtbllrcpeBubblefluteF

This Greek Meatball recipe was fromhttp://www.sauceandsensibility.com/?p=1639, really,give it a try.

and may all your Christmases be*….well, all that you wish them to be.

Merry Christmas.pnkbrchblurFpnkbrchclsFpnkbrchwideF

*Irving Berlin

Midwinter

December 21, 2012

Odd name for the Winter solstice which is actually the first day of the season. Call it what you will, it is absolutely my most favorite of days. It marks the shortest day of the year in terms of daylight but signals the slow, steady increase in daylight hours as we move into spring. Sure, it might not seem like a big thing to you but trust me, if you live anywhere near the midwest, you will immediately notice that the sky has not gone to pitch at 4:45 in the afternoon. There is a feeling of hope…yes, that spring is just one season away. So, celebrate with me if you care to, with anything ( hell, everything ) that reminds you of spring… and relish every extra minute of daylight.Copy (2) of whthyc2FCopy of whthyc1F

really simple, really impressive. A basic Choux pastry flavored with cheese, Gougere is the savory version of a cream puff. Traditionally served with Champagne or a glass of wine, these two bite wonders are perfect for holiday entertaining.  Make ’em now…freeze ’em…pull ’em out and reheat when you need ’em…anytime someone stops by or pops a cork.