Window Shopping.....

Lately, I've been making an effort to practice gratitude, i.e. being thankful for what I have. I've been amazed at the difference it's making in my life. I've spent a lot less time shopping, feeling discontent, and comparing myself to others.

I really noticed improvement a few weeks ago when the hubs and I went to a fancy open house. The home we visited was large and beautiful--easily magazine worthy. The old me would have hounded and pestered the hubs all weekend about how we need a new bigger house, and how we need to make more money. The new content  me was able to admire the beautiful home we visited, then joyfully go back to our little humble abode. I'm proud of the changes I'm making, they are leading to true peace of mind, which I'm finding to be priceless. What about you? Can you window shop without envy? Are you content with what you have?

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you are not content today, there is nothing you can buy tomorrow to change that.” ~Joshua Becker 

Around Town: 6 Orkney Ct, Baltimore, MD 21212

One activity I really enjoy doing when I get some free time is visiting open houses. There's just something about viewing how others live, and witnessing  Baltimore's fantastic architecture that I find very fascinating. Recently, I stumbled upon a gem of a home not too far from where I live. It's currently inhabited by an elderly woman who's lived there for 40 years, and has maintained the property meticulously. 

There are beautiful distinctive light fixtures throughout the home, including this gorgeous chandelier. The picture honestly does it no justice.

Look at the fabulous vintage stove! It's in perfect working condition. The homeowner uses it every day.

You can snuggle up and read a book in front of the original working fireplace.

The bathroom is covered in wallpaper that might not suite everyone, but has tons of character none the less.  

I was a big fan of the bathroom's light fixtures.

To learn more about the property click HERE. It has 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths and listed for a complete steal at $210, 000. I have a feeling it will go for above asking, given it's great condition and wonderful location near BELVEDERE SQUARE. 

Around Town: Charlotte Elliot

In the market for a striking antique African mask or some vintage Asian artwork? If so, you should go treasure hunting at Hampden's CHARLOTTE ELLIOT. They have tons of global antiques, out of print books, and vintage clothing & jewelry. If you want to add an extra layer of sophistication to your decor they'll definitely have a piece for you. I feel like a real grown-up whenever I shop there :-) Here are some of their current offerings.

Around Town: David's on the Avenue

DAVID'S ON THE AVENUE is a consignment shop that represents quintessential Baltimore. It's charming, a little quirky, affordable, and filled with several hidden gems. The furniture selection ranges in era greatly. They have everything from Victorian to Mid-century Modern. I think they're a great place to look if you're hunting for a strong statement piece that won't break the budget. Don't let the shabby outside of the building fool you. This place is definitely worth going into......again and again.

 

 

Around (Another) Town: Kensington Antiques Row

Recently a kind READER suggested I head down to Kensington, MD and explore their antiques district. Not one to pass up a new antiquing adventure, I decided to check it out during my most recent visit to the DC area. I'm truly grateful for the tip, because I'd never heard of the district before, and had an exquisite time perusing the stores. Though there are several nice stores in the area I most enjoyed Jill & Company and Sally Schaffer Antiques. The two stores are connected and specialize in country americana antiques.

 Beautiful baskets were a noticeable theme throughout. I'm a sucker for vintage baskets, anything with beauty and utility gets a gold star in my book.

There were also several gorgeous quilts. It was like being in an impressive textile museum. It was hard to pick which one I liked the most.

I was also a fan of this pair of chairs.

I thought the rooster lamp and solidly built old porch swing were nice finds too.

Beautiful folk dolls could be found scattered throughout the stores.

 This dining set made me jokingly beg the hubs for a new house so I'd have some place to put it. He suggested I start up a decorating business instead so I could put it in someone else's house. I just may take him up on that suggestion.

Well, that's all! I hope everyone has a wonderful rest of the week.