a pink breakfast nook of my dreams (my friend’s makeover i’m jealous of…)

Home Decor

A Pink Breakfast Nook Of My Dreams (My Friend’s Makeover I’m Jealous Of…)

Drescription

Apparently pink rooms are having a moment over here (my guest room, my brother’s guest room) and while technically this room was painted before I took over decorating I will happily take credit for how pretty it is. Nicole and Curtis, two of our best friends, chose Dead Salmon by Farrow & Ball for this super classic and beautiful dining nook. This room is so beautiful and was frankly pretty easy to furnish and decorate because they had a great start with that color, light fixture, and the black shelving.

This was the room before. The windows are just as beautiful but those brown walls and ceiling really weren’t their style.

It just wasn’t living to its full potential but I feel pretty confident in saying that now it is…

See?! Ok, let’s get into some of the main pieces. The shape of the window lent itself to a large round pedestal table, but I didn’t want it to be white which was harder to find than predicted. I found this table randomly on Frontgate, and it’s 60″ with a pretty dark marble top and a lovely traditional base. There are a lot of trendier post-modern pedestal tables out there, and certainly mid-century styles but they didn’t feel right here (plus, we wanted to use these more modern chairs) so I love how the base is so classic and traditional. The chairs are from Soho Home and the color is perfect (it talks to the green in the more formal dining room) and the cut-out in the back is a really lovely detail.

Because this room is small and pretty simple, design-wise, we decided to set the table to add some styling elements. I really love that vase (with green interiors) and used Crate & Barrel plates with Anthro bowls and World Market glasses to deck it out.

See how the two (well, three) spaces talk to each other? All have their own personalities but are definitely a part of the same family.

Nic and Curtis had this black shelf/cart already along this wall which totally works but we recently talked about adding more pantry space to the nearby kitchen (which they desperately need) and bringing in two deVOL-style cupboards here. I like this vignette, but I think a prettier piece with closed storage would work better. The photo art is one they’ve had for a long time which reminds them of when their girls were little on skateboards:) I mostly edited and curated what they already had there, making it look better (which is my favorite thing to do), and added that pretty footed bowl, and a live jasmine plant which we all became obsessed with.

The chandelier is so perfect in here – it holds the space so well, but it’s reflective and airy (not visually heavy) which keeps the room balanced.

I will never tire of this room and the only thing better than looking at the photos is being in here in person. Thanks, Nic and Curtis for making my job so easy. xx

And as a reminder, here’s a pretty great before and after:)

How to Avoid Getting Sick on a Flight—Before, During, and After You Travel

It’s almost summer vacation season, which means air travel is picking up and airports are getting increasingly crowded. This means being in close proximity to a lot of people—some of whom may be sick and decided to fly anyway. “People are exposed to all types of germs when traveling, especially in a contained space like an airplane, where germs can spread easily in the recirculated air, or in crowded public spaces like airports, where many people are touching the same surfaces,” says Dr. Robert Biernbaum, DO. But no one wants their trip ruined by catching something on their outgoing flight. Fortunately, there are things you can do to avoid getting sick when you fly. To help you plan for your next trip, we spoke with two physicians who provided tips for staying well when you travel. Dr. Robert Biernbaum, DO, chief medical officer at WellNow Urgent Care Dr. Karla Robinson, MD, a family physician and the medical editor for GoodRx Before You Travel To avoid getting sick when you fly, you’re going to need to start preparing before you step foot on a plane. Here are a few things you can do in advance of your trip. Boost Your Immune System Keep your immune system healthy by drinking plenty of fluids, managing stress, eating a vitamin-rich diet, and getting plenty of sleep and regular exercise, Biernbaum says. “These healthy habits help strengthen your body’s natural defenses so you’re better protected when you’re around crowds and touching shared surfaces at the airport or on the plane,” Robinson adds. Stay Hydrated Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water for a few weeks leading up to your flight. “While staying hydrated is definitely important for your overall health and immune system, drinking a lot of water the day before your flight isn’t a magic fix,” says Dr. Karla Robinson, MD. Instead, increase your water intake in the weeks leading up to your trip. There’s never a wrong time to start drinking more water! Choose Your Seat Wisely If you have a chance to choose your seat ahead of your flight, you may want to be strategic about it. For example, a 2018 study found that for multiple reasons, people sitting in window seats are less likely to be exposed to germs. A 2022 study drew similar conclusions about sitting in the back of the plane. Stock Up on Supplies According to Robinson, it might be helpful to stock up on common medications for cold and flu symptoms before your trip, in case you start feeling sick while you're away. Also, pack healthy snacks and an empty water bottle that you can fill up at the airport to stay hydrated throughout your flight. During Your Flight But you’re not off the hook once you board the plane. Here are some ways to avoid getting sick during your flight. Wear a Mask “Some of the top ailments we see are respiratory viruses,” Biernbaum says. If you’re serious about not getting sick, a face mask is your best bet. “Wearing a face mask is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from respiratory infections like the common cold or flu—especially in crowded planes with recycled air,” Robinson explains. Wash and Sanitize Your Hands In addition to washing your hands with soap and water whenever you use the restroom, bring a travel-sized hand sanitizer and use it frequently, especially after touching surfaces like doorknobs, handrails, elevator buttons, and public transportation handles, Biernbaum says. Wipe Down High-Touch Surfaces Bring a few disinfecting wipes with you and wipe down commonly touched surfaces such as tray tables, armrests, and seat belts, Biernbaum says. And it’s not just to protect you from respiratory viruses. If you’ve ever seen a parent change a baby on a tray table, you know why this is important. After Your Flight You’re not in the clear the moment you step off your flight. Here’s what to do after you deplane. Wash Your Hands It’s a good idea to wash your hands in the airport after getting off the aircraft. And keep it up throughout your trip. “Regular hand-washing is key,” Biernbaum says. If a sink’s not available, use hand sanitizer. Keep Up Other Healthy Habits It’s easy to throw your regular schedule and healthy habits out the window when you’re on vacation, but Robinson says that’s not a good idea. “Staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and eating nutritious foods can help your immune system stay strong after travel too,” she explains.

Could These Be The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Comfortable Rompers?? 7 Women Give Their Honest Reviews

As a “romper” expert, I have had a lot over the years and liked many for different reasons. But once I bought my first Pistola, it quickly became the one I reached for. It’s flattering, while being roomy. Cute while having big pockets for a phone, etc. For us, our job being relatively physical, so having an easy-to-move-in “outfit” that is cool in the summer, always comfortable, and cute (for camera) is a Venn diagram miracle. I find myself telling any stranger who flatters me in it that it’s the best comfortable romper on the market, so I figured I’d see if my team agrees. So today you’ll see their new summer line on a few bodies (yes, I reached out and they sent them to me and my team with no obligation to say anything at all, let alone something positive). Here is what we think: Emily Size: Small (I’m between 4-6 (so I guess a 5, lol) Height: 5’4″ with a short-ish torso True to Size?: I love how it fits and wouldn’t want smaller or bigger, but admittedly I want it to not be tight AT ALL. No body-con rompers for me, thank you. Size down if you are in between, like me. Official Review: MASSIVE fan. They have some structure while being lightweight (some other brands that are canvas are great, but too hot for most months). The cotton is thin enough to be cool, but thick enough not to be cheap poplin that doesn’t keep its shape. It gives more “utilitarian,” which I also want (and is the whole point). The huge pockets are fantastic for work or just for weekend cleaning, so I can keep my phone/podcast on my person as I run around the house. The red one – I’ve worn the red one almost every day since I got it – oh, and it washes great, too. I don’t need to steam it, and they don’t wrinkle up in an annoying way. I have the denim version that drapes/falls really well, too. The green one – This one is new to me and I really like it for a dressier version (great for summer office) but l’ll likely wear it less since it does cinch at the waist (I might have sensory issues, guys!). But it’s really flattering and cute for a slightly dressier/less utilitarian vibe. Jess Size: Small Height: 5’4″ True to Size?: I think so but only if you like a looser fit, otherwise consider sizing down. Official Review: Needless to say, I was so so excited to get a Pistola romper. Em has been wearing them for a while now, and every time I think how cute they are. When I first put it on, I immediately felt the quality and loved all the details. But after staring at myself for a minute, I was afraid it might be slightly too big. I even panic messaged Caitlin, who was the one in contact with Pistola, that I might need to swap. I then adjusted the waist to cinch it in, and I was so much happier! As you can see, I went vintage shopping (with Caitlin) and felt great the whole day…although we both forgot to get any good front shots of me in it in the wild, lol. I will mention two things that I think are worth considering. I think the top is a little roomy, in general. Great for maybe tall, longer-torsoed, or bustier people (plus, I do think it’s also just the look). However, with the adjustable waist, it fixes that problem for us shorties. But if you like a more fitted look, I would size down (maybe even 2 sizes). Also, there are snaps AND buttons going down the front! Which is great because you are secure. I just wouldn’t wait too long to go to the bathroom because it’s a 2-step “undoing” process:) Overall, I really love it and will absolutely be wearing it all summer. Recommend! Arlyn Size: Extra-Large Height: 5’3″ True to Size?: Totally. I followed the measurements on the online sizing guide, which led me to an XL, which is typically what I am with pieces like this. (For reference, I waver between a large and XL in tops because I’m very busty, and wear XL bottoms or anywhere between a 14 or 16, depending on the brand.) Official Review: I have a complicated relationship with rompers in general. I always love them on other people, but because I’m petite, on the rounder side, and, again, chesty, it’s very hard for me to ever get a comfortable fit. Either the crotch is too low and rubs in weird places, the shorts ride up, the top is too small for dem boobies, or it has way too much fabric everywhere for the size I need. BUT, I have to say, I did think this was a good fit. However, as Jess mentioned, my goodness, you’re caged up in this thing! There’s an internal layer of snaps and a top layer of buttons. Secure? Yes. Overkill? Perhaps. The fabric is thick and sturdy, so it’ll likely wash really well and last a long time, but it does feel a bit stiff at first, FYI. I may need to break it in a bit to feel more comfortable, but it sure is cute. Caitlin Size: Large Height: 5’8″ True to Size?: True to their size chart? Yes. True to my understanding of my size? No! I almost grabbed an XL here – it’s my go-to size when ordering from any new brand – and am so glad I checked the chart before adding to cart. (I technically could have fit into a medium!) I have a super long torso and normally need to size up, so I was pleasantly surprised by how comfy and roomy the large fits me. Official Review: I LOVE THIS ROMPER. (I love it so much that when it was delivered at my house, I took to Slack and proclaimed “just got my romper and I LOVE IT,” followed by “taking all my restraint not to throw it in the link up this week lol.”) I love that it’s loose and breezy around the legs, a little more formal up top, and that I can tie it as tight or as loose as I’d like. It’s a total blank canvas – easy to dress up, easy to dress down – and it’s one of those rare pieces of clothing that you could wear both to the grocery store and to like, any conservative church on your summer European vacation travels. The fabric is weighty and luxe – I’m just blown away by the quality. Pistola, I see you!!! You have a new fan :) (PS. I was shocked to read the other gals’ commentary on the buttons. This one just hag regular ol’ buttons. I can pee without issue!) Mallory Size: Small Height: 5’7″ True to Size?: Yes! Official Review: This is a solid piece – the quality is great and the fabric is thick. The fit definitely works for a longer torso because the crotch is a bit lower. It also has double-layered buttons so skin doesn’t peek through when you sit down, which I think is a really smart design (but know it will take you a bit to take off during bathroom trips). I also really love the white version of this romper, which I was initially nervous about getting (and ultimately went with the black) because I thought it might be see-through. But now that I know how thick and high quality the material is on the black one, I think the white would be SUPER cute and easy to style too:) Gretchen Size: Large, fits me perfectly Height: 5’9″ True to Size?: I am normally a size L/XL and debated about ordering a size up, but I am super glad I didn’t. While I’d say this romper is true to size, make sure to check your measurements with theirs. Mine lined up best with a size large. But when I first tried the romper on, I was a bit worried it was maybe too loose, wondering if I could’ve maybe squeezed into a medium. I wasn’t totally swimming in it, but I’d wanted it to feel just a tad more fitted in places. HOWEVER, mine now fits perfectly after a wash. The group shot with Marlee, Em, and me was taken pre-wash, and my selfie is the romper straight out of a cycle. I don’t feel like it necessarily shrank per se, but just that it tightened up in all the places I wanted it to, while still feeling plenty comfortable and roomy. Added bonus–these are a breeze to wash! Official Review: I’m absolutely in love with this romper and heading back to buy it in another color–I’m serious. I love just how unbelievably easy, cute, and comfortable it is. Like, it’s so simple to throw on and run around in–a full outfit in one–but more than that, I just look so dang cute and put together wearing it (that, yes, it makes me want to toot my own horn!). I love what the zip front does style-wise, but it also makes it very quick to slip in and out of (for bathroom breaks, etc). The waist tie situation is great to cinch you in, and the material is casual, breathable, and hangs so nicely. I also like that you can roll and snap the sleeves up or leave them down. I’m partial to the latter. This piece is very much “ME” and I know I’ll be reaching for it all summer long–heck, I’m wearing it as I type this. I’ll be watching Pistola closely to see if they release it in more colors! Marlee Size: Small Height: 5’8″ True to Size?: Yes! Official Review: I am not typically a romper girl, but I was pleasantly surprised about this one – I feel like my biggest issue with rompers is typically the fact that they “ride up” if you know what I mean… but this one, I did not have to worry about! The length of the shorts was great and was roomy enough in the leg that I didn’t feel constricted, and long enough that I didn’t feel “exposed” (but not too long that it’s an awkward length). The shorts part also has a little cuff with a button holding it in place, so if you wanted them to be longer, there’s some flexibility there. I really like the buttons on the side – it fits true to size in the waist and was perfectly roomy, but if you wanted it to be a little more snatched, you have the option to take it in a little bit. I love the look of the pockets and the utilitarian vibe, but the highlight for me was how soft the fabric was. It’s so cute with sneakers for a casual look, but I think the way I’ll wear this the most is dressed up with some tall boots and a cute purse:) I think it’s fair to say that we all very much approve of these very cute rompers. So if you are in the market, we recommend Pistola hard:)

How to Revive Near-Dead Petunias and Save Your Yard in the Process

Depending on where you live, petunias are probably a summer staple in your flower beds. They’re a reliable pop of color, and they tend to thrive in a variety of conditions. As long as they’re in a sunny spot and watered regularly, petunias are generally considered low-maintenance plants. As the summer goes on, it’s not uncommon to catch your petunias drooping and dying—especially if you’ve faced a summer of extremes—but with a few handy tips you might be able to revive your near-dead petunias and bring them back to thrive until the season ends. Deadhead Any Lost Blooms One of the best ways to help a struggling petunia plant is by deadheading; this is the process of removing any dead or faded flowers from the plant. Deadheading petunias both encourages more blooming and immediately fixes the look of your plant. The reason it encourages more flowers to bloom is because the plant can focus its energy on new life, rather than trying to revive spent blossoms. You can do this either with proper shears, or by simply picking off the dead flower with your fingers. Want more gardening tips? Sign up for our free gardening newsletter for our best growing tips, troubleshooting hacks, and more! Prune the Dried Foliage Another way to perk up your petunias is with pruning. This is similar to deadheading (it serves the same purpose), but instead of tackling the dead flowers, you go for the dead leaves. Along with cleaning up the look of your plant, you’re also helping it direct its energy toward new, fresh growth. While pinching off flowers is an option for deadheading, you’ll need proper, sharp shears for dealing with the foliage. It’s also important they’re clean, as otherwise you run the risk of spreading disease to the plant. Adjust Your Watering Schedule Depending on where you live, petunias don't require too much attention, but they still need regular watering. If you notice your plants look dire, have a peek at your watering schedule. You might need to make adjustments. While petunias planted in the ground can go longer, anything in a pot needs daily watering. But you don’t want to over-water your petunias, either. If your plants look parched and crispy, amp up the water. If the leaves are yellow and the plants are drooping, slow it down. Ensure Proper Drainage Along with taking note of whether or not your petunias are drooping and looking yellow, you also need to beware of root rot. This is when the roots of your petunias become waterlogged, and it’s the most fatal effect of over-watering. If you suspect your petunias are at risk, they might need removing or relocating into fresh soil that can ensure good drainage. If you plan to repot in the same container, make sure you clean and disinfect the pot thoroughly to avoid the spread of any mold or mildew that might have started to accumulate. Fertilize the Soil Petunias are considered heavy feeders, which means they benefit from fertilizers. Slow-release options are great, and can be used both in the ground and when petunias are planted in pots and containers. Along with reviving your plants, fertilizing petunias can also help with more abundant blooms and a longer growing season. If you don’t want to invest in special fertilizer, you can try making your own compost, or adding banana peels or coffee grounds to the soil. Move Into Full Sun Petunias thrive with the right amount of sunlight, so check the light levels if you find your blooms aren’t full or abundant. You should aim to provide these plants with at least six hours of direct sunlight a day, although eight or more is ideal. If your plants are in containers, this should be easy enough to resolve—simply move the pot. If you’re dealing with grumpy petunias in the ground, it’s likely time to relocate. Some shade is fine, but a sunny spot is an absolute must if you’re hoping to perk your plants up enough to see more flowers. Offer Protection From the Elements As a final potential problem for your petunias, consider their exposure to any extreme elements. Blistering sun with no water is an obvious problem, but petunias can also be sensitive to strong winds—especially any varieties with more delicate blooms. Keep an eye out, too, for any potential pests. Petunias are prone to attracting aphids and slugs, while rabbits and deer might also snack on these blooms. If you notice any signs of an invasion, consider moving or protecting your plants to help bring them back to life.

Japanese Aralia Is the Quirky Bloom You Should Add to Your Garden Now — How to Care For It

Japanese aralia, also called paper plant or Formosa rice tree, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that can be planted or grown in a container in temperate gardens or kept as a houseplant. With foliage that hints at a tropical location and striking blooms, it is a plant you'll enjoy year-round. Japanese Aralia Care As an evergreen garden shrub or small tree, Japanese aralia has a rounded, spreading form and can reach up to 19 feet tall. The dark green leaves have a palmate form and make long-lasting foliage for flower arrangement. White or cream flowers that resemble drumsticks appear on new growth stems in late fall and black fruit develops in winter from the blooms. The plant can be grown in a container on a shady patio or as a houseplant in colder hardiness zones. It is quite popular with deer, so aim to protect it or keep it inside. If grown as a houseplant, Japanese aralia seldom blooms or develops fruit. Light If you have a shady garden, this is an excellent shrub choice, as it prefers partial to full shade. It can only tolerate about 2 hours of direct sunlight before the leaves are scorched and turn brown. If growing in a container, it should not be placed in direct sun. Find a low-light spot inside and a shady corner of a porch or patio. Soil A highly adaptable plant, Japanese aralia thrives in clay, loam, or sandy soil that can be acidic, neutral, or alkaline. However, you'll see larger, faster growth in soil that is nutrient-rich with organic matter. Container-grown plants work well with any commercial potting soil. Water Soil should be kept evenly moist. However, once established Japanese aralia can survive short periods of drought. Add a layer of mulch to help keep the soil moist in the garden. Reduce watering amounts in fall and winter when the plant is not growing as quickly. Temperature and Humidity The plant prefers temperate to warm temperatures outside and inside with moderate to high humidity. Protect the plant from drying winds. Fertilizer Fertilize regularly with a balanced NPK granular or liquid fertilizer except in the winter when the plant is not growing as much. Where and When to Plant Outdoor planting should be done in a shady area of the garden that receives around 2 to 4 hours of sunlight, preferably morning sun. The plants must be shaded to avoid the harsh afternoon sun. They are ideal as accent specimens, coarsely textured shrubs for mixed borders, or as an irregular screen or hedge. Plant in the garden in early spring after the last frost or late fall before the first frost to give the plant time to settle into the garden. Keep well-watered until the plant is established. Pruning and Trimming Japanese aralia can be pruned or trimmed at any time to maintain it's shape. Late winter is the best time to prune because blossoms will only appear on new growth. How to Propagate Japanese Aralia The best time to propagate Japanese aralia from a cutting is when there is new, green growth. You'll need a small plant pot with good drainage, potting mix, rooting hormone, and clean garden pruners. From Clippings Choose a tender stem with no blooms and cut 4 to 6 inches from the tip of the stem just below a leaf node. Remove any leaves from the lower half of the stem. Fill the container with potting mix and water it well to moisten. Use your finger to poke a hole a few inches into the soil surface. Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder and shake off any excess. Place the cutting in the hole and pat the soil gently around the stem to hold the cutting in place. Put the cutting in a warm place that gets a few hours of bright, indirect light. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. After a few weeks, give the cutting a gentle tug—you'll feel resistance if it has rooted. Once the cutting has rooted, you can repot, if desired, and care for it as usual. From Fruit Seeds The plant can also be propagated from seeds gathered from the fruit that appears in the winter. Soak the fruit and crush them to extract the seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix in a seed tray. Keep the soil warm and moist with bright, indirect light. Once the seeds germinate, thin the plants as needed. When each plant has a few sets of leaves, transplant them into individual pots. Common Pests and Plant Diseases Keep an eye out for aphids, mealybugs, scale, thrips, and spider mites on both garden plants and houseplants. Treat these pets as soon as possible to keep them under control. Overly moist soils may lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Common Varieties 'Camouflage': Variegated foliage with big splashes of yellow, lime, and green. 'Murakumo Nishiki': The leaves are patterned with yellowish-gold with irregular dark green borders resembling brocade fabric. 'Spider's Web': The edges or the entire blade of the leaves are speckled with a white variegation. 'Variegata': The ends of the variegated leaves show traces of white or yellow. Potting and Repotting Most Fatsia japonica houseplants should be repotted every couple of years to prevent them from becoming rootbound. Roots coming out of the drainage holes or if the plant isn't producing new growth are indicators that it needs a larger pot and fresh potting soil. Gently remove the plant from the pot by tapping on the sides to loosen the soil. If the roots are growing in a circle, gently pull them apart and shake out the soil. Fill the new container about one-third full of soil and add the plant, spreading the root system. Add enough soil to fill the container within one spare inch of rim. Water well and keep the soil moist but not soggy.