A Blank Canvas

Is there anything more tempting to an artists than a blank canvas? For the two young artist in my house, the answer would be "no". Since they are exposed to Hampton Paper Designs and the beauty of art on a daily basis, I often hear them say "I want to be an artist when I grow up".

Today we are having the Graham and Ball Frames Wall Paper installed in their computer room. I thought it was the idea way for them to unleash their creative side and make the room their own.

When Hampton Paper Designs was featured in Long Island Press last year, I noticed a feature on Benjamin Moore Chalkboard paint. I didn't realize the Chalkboard paint is available in any color.  I choose a dark navy blue,Stunnin,g to go below the chair rail.  The art wall paper + chalkboard paint seemed like a winning combination.

I cant wait to see the kids faces when they arrive home and see the wallpaper. This is an ideal project for a chilly weekend in March. Stay tuned for "after" photos.

Champagne Brunch

Doesn't a Champagne Brunch sound like a great idea for the first weekend in March? It's been rainy and cold here in the Washington, DC area and I cant think of any better way to start my weekend than with my Gourmet Club friends and brunch!

 

I have mentioned before I have a close group of friends in my Gourmet Club and we meet monthly to eat, drink and socialize. We rotate houses and themes and include a few guest in addition to the core 6. We have been doing it for years and its so much fun. Last month, we had a Superbowl theme and you had to bring a dish that was from SF or Baltimore. A++ for everyone's creativity!

 

This month its back at my house and in an effort to mix it up a bit, I thought a brunch might be just the perfect suggestion! I know my husband is looking forward to make a huge omelet bar for all the guests. As for me, my favorite coffee cake recipe from Cotton Country Cookbook.

 

I have a busy few days ahead..setting the tables, flowers and of course setting up a little candy bar for all the kids. We are expecting 17 people. Here's to hoping that March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb.

 

March Virtual Book Club Selection: Beyond Belief

If you are participating in our virtual book club, here's the March Selection. Beyond Belief, My Secret Life Inside Scientology and My Harrowing Escape. I started it yesterday on the train to NYC and can't put it down!

 

 

 

I Love NY

I am heading to the Big Apple today. Quick day trip filled with a million memories. There is no better feeling then traveling to the state you will always consider home. Looking for new image inspiration along the way. Happy Wednesday. Hope you are enjoying your week!

Brighter Days

Right about now, mid February I have cabin fever and I am on the verge of going stir crazy. I feel like I cannot take these cold blustery winter days for one more second.  I am my mother's daughter and decided this weekend to take a break from all my HPD New Year's goals (which are coming along so nicely, check check and check)  and head to Neiman Marcus for a quick pick me up.  I purchased Bobbi Brown's Extra Bright Skin Collection and I must say it did the trick and then some. My skin glows. As I embrace yet another cold blustery Monday in Washington, DC I am optimistic that I am within 30 days of spring!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day! 

Here's how we celebrated today.

Enjoy your day! XOXO, HPD

Bus Stop Happy Hour Candy Bags! 

For the ladies in the school office! I see them every time I go by the school.

Valentine's for Teachers.

Some Days... Part II

In a blog post in December, I mentioned that as a working mom juggling so many things, I missed the gingerbread house decorating party at my son's school given my hectic schedule. I would be negligent if I didn't also include in a a blog an example of when my work offers me the opportunity to do something that I might otherwise not be able to afford to do.

My youngest son, Jackson is huge Washington Capitals fan and had a 6th birthday coming up in early February. With the exciting announcement in late January that hockey would resume play and an upcoming home game in Washington, DC at the Verizon Center, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to take our avid little fan to his first game.

We spared no expense on the gift - 4 tickets, first row behind the penalty boxes, valet parking (my favorite perk), ice cream, pretzels popcorn and drinks to complete the experience. We even had a die hard fan behind us screaming at the refs which provided a lot of color.

I received so many nice and supportive notes from friends and family and words of encouragement that there would be other opportunities. I am headed to the school today for Jackson's Valentine's Day party. I hope  the Caps game +  this party it will compensate for the missed event in December.