Above photo of Sturgeon Lake by Arren Williams.

The world feels very heavy right now, not so easy to put it down and forget about it. I read these words and wanted to share them with you.

“Call out the small moments that add meaning to your like, that fill you up on a deeper level, and seek more of those experiences. This is the truest, most timeless form of self-care. It costs nothing other than your attention, asking that you live with your eyes open…” – Leigh Patterson

Colour, texture and pattern. These design elements, when layered together correctly, help create depth and richness in a room. Our showroom is filled with vignettes that we’ve put together, so you can easily imagine yourself with them in your own home. If you are still hesitant about coming into our showroom to shop in person, we now have a selection of items available in our online shop.

Barstools, lighting, area rugs, and upholstery. We’ve got a great selection of pieces that will arrive quickly.  Switching up the lighting in your home is an easy way to transform a space and change the atmosphere. Get rid of the builder basic sconces and flush mounts, and replace them with modern sculptural ones. Shown below is the Squircle wall sconce in black, also available in chrome and gold brass. Photograph by Amber Ulmer.

Switching up your decor and accessories each season is something that does not come easily to everyone. Now that summer is almost here I thought you might enjoy this post by designer Erin Gates on how to decorate your mantel. A very calm muted colour palette with organic touches is shown below.

I was sad to hear when local restaurant The Monaghan Cafe closed its doors earlier this year. A new Indian restaurant has taken over the space and I can’t wait to try it out. Their menu will focus on Tandoori style dishes.

If you are getting bored with the same recipes every week this post might come in handy. Five ingredient meals that look delicious. The bacon, egg, avocado sandwich is a recipe I would never tire of and could eat every day!

If you have a graduate in your family I think that these custom made signs by StoneHouse Hall would make him or her happy. I always stop to read the ones I see in my neighbourhood while I’m walking the dog. They aren’t this fancy!

Have you heard of designer Amber Lewis ? If not, you should definitely check her out. She’s best known for her effortless California cool interiors and has become a well known name in the world of design. Her first book Made For Living is available for pre-order and comes out in October. A great gift idea for yourself or someone who loves design and wants to create a timeless look.

I love watching design transformations and Sarah Richardson’s Design Life series keeps getting better. This week they are revealing the living and dining room. This project is a rental so items need to be budget friendly and durable.

Celebrations are in full swing this time of year with weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries. If you are in need of a showstopper dessert, my friend Natalie at Heck Yes makes the most beautiful cakes. My daughters were lucky to receive one of her designs for their last birthday. When I turned 40 she made me a cream of earl grey flavoured cake, have you ever heard of that? I hadn’t, and it was so gorgeous I didn’t want to eat it…but I did. Contact her here to place your order.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth but don’t need an entire cake for yourself, get some yummy chocolates from Centre and Main. With unique flavours like Saffron Strawberry Rhubarb, it’s worth the drive.

I came across these fun printable birthday cards the other day and wanted to share them with you. My kids love to colour their own design and these came in handy for Grandpa’s special day.

If you are a fan of the television show Schitt’s Creek you might enjoy this video. If you have never watched the show I encourage you to do so right now. You will laugh so hard I promise!

Morgan Harper Nichols is such a talented writer and artist. If you are ever looking for encouraging words or a bit of inspiration, please check out her instagram feed. A daily reminder of kindness is always appreciated.