Busy, busy, busy...

Hi Blogger Friends!

Sorry I have been absent this week.  I am meeting myself coming and going.

My real job as a Real Estate Broker 

(versus my Fun non-paying Blogging job - LOL) 

 also consists of managing almost 100 properties.  

After Hurricane Irene, that meant almost 100 Inspections....plus pictures, plus estimates, plus meeting with Adjustors....etc, etc, etc.

Not to include.... I haven't even began to touch the clean up in the Land of Grits. Did I mention we live on 4.5 acres with LOTS of trees!!!  :-O  (wish I had a dollar for every branch, leaf and pinecone in our yard.) Mercy!

Did I also mention that Tropical Storm (soon to be possible Hurricane) Katia may be paying us a visit next week?

UNCLE!!!!!

But, good news!  I am working on several projects to include a great No-Sew Pillow.... a fireplace mantle makeover, a lamp-shade makeover... and as always ... a fun and easy floral tutorial.

So please forgive my absence... I will be back posting very soon.

Hugs, Barb

Sunday Favorites...Some Fall Inspiration

It's time for Sunday Favorites, again.  This fun Bloggy Party, sponsored by

Chari at Happy to Design.

I thought I would share a little Fall inspiration with you, the transformation of my not-so-charming front porch.  

We have just gone through Hurricane Irene, and I know one thing....I am soooo over Summer. LOL

I am ready for some cooler weather....pumpkins, pansies, corn and sweaters.

Here's to celebrating Fall....my favorite time of the year!

I hope you enjoy this Re-Post..... Barb

Checking in after Hurricane Irene...

I just wanted to let everyone know that all is well here at The Grits House.  

Other than the loss of my beloved Crepe Myrtle, and about a gazillion limbs and leaves...we are fine.  It's been estimated we have received anywhere between 12-15 inches of rain.

My poor neighbor across the street lost about 5 major trees, and one fell across the front of his house.  We will be going over tomorrow to help him out.

But for now, Irene is heading up North and I pray it doesn't cause a lot of havoc.  

Thank you for all your prayers and well wishes.

Sincerely....Barb

On a Bloggy Break This Week...

I am going to be away from the computer for the rest of this week because of two major situations in my life right now.

The first is that I was chosen as a juror in a criminal case.  The trial should last all week, and could possibly run into next week.

The second is this little storm brewing out in Atlantic.

Meet Miss Irene. 

As you can see from the above, we are not in a good situation at this time. I am praying this storm veers more to the East and heads out to sea.  The next few days will tell.

A Hurricane and an Earthquake....all in the same week!!????

So.... everyone here on the East coast - my prayers are with you, too.  This one could go anywhere.  I will check in next week when life, hopefully, gets back to normal.

Oh yea....remember this project?

It is about 95% assembled on my back deck, but it can't be completely put in place....why?  Because Barb didn't accurately measure the space and due to our gutters, it is about 3" too wide.  So, we are working on Plan B.  :-/

Mr. Grits said maybe it was for the best...just in case Miss Irene decides to stop by for a visit.

Hope you're having a great week.....Barb

It all Started with a Feather!

I think we all have those certain little areas of our home that make us smile every time we pass by.  

For me, its a corner of our Family Room.  We refer to it as "Kitchener Korner."

The area features a drawing of Lord Kitchener, a British General.  My husband majored in British History, and could expound on his battles and legends....but for me, I just like the art for how it looks.  

I was doing some cleaning this morning, and found one of my pheasant feathers under a table.

(I am guessing the culprit responsible is a) Cole Hayden, age 5 - or b) Devin Blake, age 22 months)   ;-)

Anyway, I went to stick said feather into my floral bin when I noticed that the arrangement on Kitchener Korner could use some "umph."  And there's nothing better than feathers to add some umph.  So I added that feather and several more.

So that's where it started....one small feather lead me to add this and add that....after a few minutes, I ended up with....

This container!  Just some greenery and berries, feathers and a few rings of grapevine.  It had to retain a masculine feel.  The last thing Lord Kitchener wanted was some froo-froo flowers hanging 

out with him. :)

This is also the area where we showcase our small collection of Waterford Crystal.  We had the opportunity to drive through Ireland on two occasions, and each time we stopped at the Waterford Factory.  These are all seconds, and we got them for a steal.

I have a ton of plates.  But, two that I love the most are my black and white Napolean plates. (top two plates) I have searched for more in this line, to no avail.  I had the chance to purchase two others in a Paris Antique store, but didn't want to pay that much - thinking certainly I would find others that were cheaper.  :(

Here is a closer look at Lord Kitchener. Handsome Devil, huh? 
 I just can't resist a man in uniform.

(Obviously, since I married one. haha)

This corner also features my one and only bust.  I haven't figured out who this gentleman is. Does anyone know?  He has a faint resemblance to Caesar, don't you think?  Maybe a first cousin? :)

 I found this curly-headed fella at a flea market and hauled him home.  He soon met up with a can of black spray paint and some watered down gray paint.  Much better!

I thought he needed a wreath around his neck, hoping it would soften that scowl on his face!  (Talk about needing some botox!) 
In the background are some prints I purchased on Portobello Road, one of London's flea markets, also known for some famous residents before they made it big - The Beatles.  
We purchased several antique prints depicting British Soldiers and vintage maps of the UK.  

I absolutely love the way this area takes on a warm glow at night.  Like a fuzzy blanket you want to wrap inside. 

By the way, the marble you see on top of this hutch is known as Belgium Marble, and is no longer produced.  I found this piece, as well as a matching smaller hutch, two night stands and a beautifully carved bed with footboard....at the Brussels Salvation Army.  

Price tag?   The equivalent of $499.00 American dollars!!!!  

And to think it all started by finding that little feather under a chair.  

I am sharing "Kitchener Korner" with some other 

parties this week....

Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Met Monday


Stephanie Lynn at Under the Table and Dreaming for Sunday Showcase Party


Rhoda at Southern Hospitality for Today's Thrifty Treasures  (Tues)


Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for Tabletop Tuesday


Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesday


I hope you have a week full of found treasures as well!

Sunday Favorites...The Grits Kitchen

I am joining in with dear Chari at Happy to Design for her 113th "Sunday Favorites."

This weekly event, sponsored by one of the dearest Bloggers I know,  is a way to re-post some favorite blog posts from the past.  I will warn you before you go forward....this post is NOT for anyone dieting.  In fact, reading this post may cause a 10 pound gain. LOL  (Don't say I didn't warn you.)

This is something I fix on special occasions.  I'm sure you can cut out some of the fat by using Low-Cal this and Fat-Free that....but - if you wanna really splurge....go for it.  I hope you enjoy!

Enjoy your Sunday....Barb

What's On My Table Tuesday!

A few week's ago - I shared my favorite cast iron pan - a square frying pan. It's a staple cooking utensil in my kitchen. Most times, it sits on top of my cook top waiting for me to prepare my next meal.

This week - I want to share one of my family's favorite breakfast dishes. The basic ingredients are the same, although I may serve it slightly different if I prepare this for overnight guests.  

Introducing my ...

"Almost-Made-from-Scratch" Cinnamon-Strawberry Skillet Bread with Vanilla-Hazelnut "Gravy"

The best thing about this "recipe" is you can substitute blueberry, raspberry or any other fruit filling - and the glaze can also be just about any flavor you desire, as well.

Let me show you how...

You start with an extremely gourmet ingredient...

It wasn't until I took this picture that I realized they were "Reduced Fat." Well...that's a relief. Now I can have TWO servings. :-D

Here are the other "gourmet" ingredients. Strawberry Preserves, cream cheese, and honey (opt)...

You will need two cans of cinnamon rolls. Cut the rolls in half, and lay in a single layer on the bottom of a buttered pan. Lay the cinnamon layer face up.

Next, spread a layer of cream cheese. I prefer to use the whipped variety of cream cheese for ease of use.

Here is where you can vary the flavor of your dish. I also love to use fig preserves with candied ginger. You can use raspberry preserves or blueberry preserves....your choices are unlimited.

This next layer is totally optional ... sliced bananas. I love the combination of strawberries and bananas. Try using raspberry preserves with mandarin oranges...yummy!

No sweet bread would be complete without nuts. I am a "pecan" kinda gal - but I also love walnuts. Figs and walnuts are one of my favotite combos.

I like to add a light dusting of spice - such as cinnamon, cardamon or allspice.

During the Fall season, try substituting the fruit preserves for pureed pumpkin and add pumpkin pie spice.

Finally, dollop a few bits of butter on top, and drizzle with some honey. (opt)

Cut the second can of rolls into quarters.

Place on top - covering as much of the area as you can.

I choose this method vs. using halved rolls like the bottom layer - simply because it looks prettier when baked. :-)

Bake the rolls until they are golden brown on top, about 30-40 minutes.

While the rolls are baking, prepare your "gravy."

Yea, I know its a glaze - but I am Southern after all. :-D

Start with two parts cream cheese, and one part sour cream. You will love how the sour cream gives the gravy a mild "tart" flavor.

Next, add a package of this...

(Shhhh...this is one of my flavor secrets.) They come in all flavors...hazelnut, mocha and french vanilla.

Add just enough French Vanilla creamer to make get the consistency needed...not too thick, not too thin.

Try adding some orange juice, or a flavored liqueur. mmm....

I like to serve the gravy in small pitchers so each guest can pour on as little or as much as they want.

I serve this with crispy bacon. There is something about that sweet/savory combo that can't be beat.

When served warm...the gravy just flows down the bread as it melts. Can you smell the cinnamon and spices?

Oh, I know this dish will never be on some fancy, shmancy New York City restaurant menu... especially anything with the word "gravy" in the title. LOL

But to quote Rachel Ray..."I am a cook, not a chef." Yep - that's me.

My family thinks they have been extra good when I fix this. It's the kind of dish that makes you want to run your finger along the plate and make sure that a single drop of that "gravy" isn't left behind.

After all....isn't that what cooking is all about?

May Your Day be Fruitful and Sweet...Barb

All Decked Out...

So you are probably wondering why I am just now writing a post about decks.

I can hear you now...."The Summer is almost over. Why are you thinking about your deck?"

Simple. It's been so blasted hot all Summer here in Eastern North Carolina, we haven't been able to enjoy a lot of deck time.  In fact, I gave up on some of our deck plants and finally moved them somewhere else. Our deck gets full sun for most of the day, and is virtually unusable during the really hot months.  Thankfully, it has cooled a bit....so I can't help but allowing my thoughts to wander out to the back deck again.  

My dream is to have a portion of the deck screened in, aka Between Naps on the Porch -

but until that time...I went to Lowe's tonight after work and bought one of these...

I have had my eye on one of these for several years.  

I am not even sure how it will look.  I know it's a bit too small for the area where I will be placing it, but that's okay.  I am so excited over the prospects of us being able to sit under the shade on the back deck - I don't mind at all.

It's also going to be a family project. Well, not for my husband. 

Mr. Grits is recovering from double knee replacement surgery. (Please keep him in your prayers, he is not doing well and will probably face more surgery in a few weeks.)

I will, of course, take lots of pics to chronicle the change.  :)   

Yes, yes....before's and after's. 

Until then...look at some of these wonderful decks.  

I love how the wooden deck boards meet with the stone patio.  

This is the pergola I bought.  I found this same pergola on-line with a red canvas.  LOVE that!

But alas, mine has a neutral color so I hope to add pops of color with pillows. 

My dream deck.  Its not so much the deck itself...rather the setting.

I can imagine this on the back of my Mountain cabin in the Blue Ridge. That outdoor stone fireplace is to die for!

Love the almost tropical lushness of this deck. Isn't that a wonderful privacy feature at the far end of the deck? I love how they hung a window within a "window."

Love these colors. Very Summery.

Have a great weekend everyone....Barb

The Breakfast Room...

breakfast area - (noun) a place for light meals (usually near a kitchen); "the breakfast nook had a built in table and seats"

Do you have a Breakfast Room?  I am lucky that the floor plan of our home allowed me to have both a Formal Dining Room and a Breakfast Room.   The definition above of "breakfast area" is a space where "light meals" are served.  I find this slightly ironic....because here in The House of Grits...with my busy schedule - almost all of our meals are "light" these days.  Not just breakfast.

But, that said - I love this area of my home.  If you are new to my blog....you can see a glimpse of my Breakfast Room and Hutch Project  here.

Here's breaking news!  I am getting ready to have my RED cabinets painted WHITE.

(Did I just hear a mass of gasps from all of you red lovers?)  :)

Don't get me wrong, I love my red cabinets and always will.  But, I am ready for something a little lighter and brighter. My interior kitchen was made darker than I expected when the cabinets were painted red.  Also, my husband just gifted me with a pretty, new gazebo with an awning top to place on the back deck.  The gazebo will be a lovely addition to our home, and I can't wait to get it assembled, but I also know it will make the kitchen appear even darker.  So....out with the red and in with the white.

I have also decided to paint my black table and chairs and hutch white, too.  I am actually thinking of a mixture of red and white for the T-back chairs.  But, I am still throwing around some mental ideas. 

While the painter is here....he might as well go ahead and paint the walls, too.  Haha
I see a khaki color with an undertone of green.  Some of you might be saying.....nope, nope its too neutral sounding. 

Not at all....I see it as a blank space for one of my cherished collections....my blue and white Staffordshire.  It is currently in my Morning Room....but that room is going to undergo a change too.  Lots of projects in The House of Grits. Maybe I will finish before I drag out my Christmas boxes.  LOL

Here are a few inspiration pics from my "Breakfast Room" file.  My fave is the very last one....I think you will understand why.  :)

Love these upholstered chairs and the lantern-style light fixture. I also love the mix of painted chairs and wood stain table.   hmmm....

More painted chairs and a wood stained tabletop.  I think this combination prevents the space from becoming overly formal.

Love these rattan chairs and the checkerboard seats.  This is a beautiful trestle table. 

I love a built-in Banquet.  

Love the crisp white.  I am very much inspired (and invigorated!) by this pic.

and finally....

My dream "breakfast room."  We can all dream, can't we?  :)

This setting has been prepared for a dinner party (well, unless the Breakfast Menu includes a Breakfast Wine. haha) 

Isn't this space to die for?  Can't you imagine what croissants and cappuccino's would be like within this setting.  If I had this to look forward to, I would drink wine for breakfast, too. ;-)

Wish me luck and a re-design free of stress and turmoil.....Barb

The Center of Attention

When I am having a dinner party, whether it be a formal sit-down dinner or a family BBQ...I put as much thought into the centerpiece as the menu.  It's the cornerstone of my design philosophy when it comes to entertaining.

A pretty table + good food + cherished family and friends 

=  a Wonderful Time.

Do you have a "recipe" for your centerpieces?  Do you tend to be more formal or more relaxed?

I think your menu sets the mood for the centerpiece, as does the type of event.  Bridal Shower, Anniversary Dinner, Birthday Party..... you tend to choose a centerpiece that reflects the occasion.

One of my larger Inspiration files is that of centerpieces.  I thought I would share a few of my faves with you....

This simple grouping of candles and greenery makes the ideal centerpiece for dinner parties. Guests won't have to fight to see each other across the table.

A footed bowl of shells is hard to beat.

White tulips in a goldfish bowl. Simple and elegant for any occasion.

I love this combination.  A pretty hydrangea blossom in a bowl of shells and sand.  Perfect for an outdoor gathering.

I love to line clear glass containers with slices of fresh fruit, and this monochromatic centerpiece is a true floral statement.

Cream colored candles on a grouping of like pedestal holders.

How wonderful for a Summer Garden Party or Ladies Luncheon! Fresh veggies surround pretty, white candles surrounded by matching white mums. Just lovely!

A rustic container is perfect for showcasing a delectable gathering of fresh lemons and lemon leaves.

And for a little Fall tease... :)

Pumpkins and kumquats become the center of attention when placed in a simple white bowl.

Bittersweet and millet inside a woven basket.

My fave....a Casper pumpkin tops a shiny, silver champagne bucket  accented with flowing ivy.  Too formal?
This same look could be easily adapted with a rustic, metal urn and a simple pumpkin or gourd, and some ivy. 


I hope you enjoyed a peak inside my Floral Favorites Inspiration File. I am working on a centerpiece to go with a new Formal Living Room layout.  Both soon to be revealed....stay tuned!


Hugs and Blessings, Barb