Halloween, Martha Style

It's hard to tell if Martha loves Halloween or Christmas more. I think it's a draw. 

The October issue of her magazine is always my favorite. How happy was I when I ran across Martha's Halloween collection at Joann's today. I picked up these bat cling-ons and stuck them to every window and mirror in our house. Cupcakes will taste even better with orange cream cheese frosting in these paper liners. I'm thinking about having a Halloween party this year and would love to order this trick or treat banner to decorate with. 

I promise this is my last post about Halloween decor (unless, of course, I find something so cute that I couldn't live with myself if I didn't share it with you. High probability of that happening). I'm starting to look like a real live room parent over here.

Garden Deals

Did you know Target is closing all of it's Garden Centers? I love cruising those aisles before going into the store. 

Found some great deals today, including these lime green garden tools and Kitchen Aid Grill Tray. Most things are 30-50% off. Head over soon...all of them close up shop Sept. 30th. 

Flea Markets

I've been itching to do some good flea market shopping. Been doing some research on the LA options and here's what I've found. Excited to hit the Irvine, Santa Monica and Melrose Markets first. Anyone want to join me? 


Pasadena City College Flea Market | Smaller than the Rose Bowl but get there early for good pieces. 
Melrose Trading Post | Best for small items. Happens every weekend.
Santa Monica Flea Market | Go the last sunday for best selection. Casual decor. 
Long Beach Flea Market | Lots of vendors and great selection. Best deals at the end of the day. 
Rose Bowl Flea Market | The biggest. Great for furniture and rare finds. 
Irvine Flea Market | Very shabby chic. Smaller and more manageable. 

Urban Home

While on a trip to LA last night I stumbled across this store in Sherman Oaks. Huge selection, good quality (one step below Pottery Barn, two steps above IKEA), great prices and some really fun items. Urban Home. Check them out.

Kitchen Island Re-Do

This is one of my favorite pieces of furniture and it's been sitting on my porch since we moved to San Diego. Weather and lack of care had it looking pretty sad.

I borrowed my neighbors power sander last weekend, and had my way with it!

Picked out this fun color from the mis-match pile at Ace Hardware. Mythic Paint.

Lastly, I soaked the newly sanded butcher block with mineral oil.

Can't wait to use it again...welcome back island.

i love pat's

I love driving by Pat's (neighborhood shop of treasures).

She always puts the coolest things in the window to tempt me.

Sometimes I'm quick enough to swoop in before the other bargain hunters.

Like this day.

Adorable vintage dresser. $50.

Picked out a funky teal and Pat's painted and distressed it for $10.

It's my new favorite.