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    Author: louise

    From Lines to Life: My Graphite Journey Continues

    Art by louise

    A Rough Sketch to a Human Eye

    In the quiet corners of my home, where the whispers of creativity echo, there rests a simple yet profound sanctuary: a blank sheet of paper. After the initial exploration with portraits, the allure of diving deeper became irresistible. The first series was a delightful sojourn, a rediscovery of the lines and curves that narrate human stories on paper.

    This time around, the journey is more intimate, more profound. The focus narrows to a singular element that holds narratives deeper than oceans: the human eye.

    Returning to the Paper: A Voyage into Detail

    As I find myself once again before the unmarked expanse of paper, there’s a bubbling anticipation, a familiarity, a longing to connect. The graphite pencil in hand feels like an extension of myself, ready to dance across the paper, narrating tales untold, through the layers and textures of an eye.

    Crafting an Ode to Perception

    Crafting an eye, the sentinel of human emotion, is no less than penning a poem with graphite. Each stroke feels like a verse, weaving intricate narratives of joy, sorrow, love, and life itself. The shadows craft depth while the highlights portray luminance, coming together to compose a visual symphony that resonates with the soul.

    Drawing with graphite is a dialogue, a gentle back and forth between the artist and the paper. It is here, in this silent conversation, that the eye comes alive, telling tales that words seldom can capture.

    As I progress, I find the rhythm of my strokes becoming meditative, a beautiful dance of dark and light, forging an artwork that reaches out, inviting viewers to delve deeper, to see beyond the surface.

    Sharing the Journey: Tips for Drawing with Graphite

    For fellow enthusiasts finding their way back to paper and pencil, or embarking on this journey anew, here are a few insights I’ve gathered along the way:

    • Patience is Your Companion: The art of drawing is a patient endeavor. Allow yourself to immerse fully, appreciating each line and shade as it comes to life.

    • Understanding Light and Shadow: Mastering the interplay of light and shadow is key to adding depth and realism to your drawings.

    • Choosing the Right Tools: Invest in quality graphite pencils and paper. The right tools can truly elevate your drawing experience.

    As I sit back and admire the story unfolding on paper, I invite you to join me in this enriching journey, where each graphite stroke brings us closer to the essence of life and art.

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    xo,
    Louise

    Styling Your Home: The Perfect Blend of Neutrality, Nature, and a Splash of Color

    Interiors by louise

    The World of Home Styling

    Today, we’re diving into the ever-evolving world of home styling. From the calming allure of neutral tones to the vibrant splash of strategic colors, let’s explore the key elements that can transform your living space into a haven of style and comfort.

    Embracing the Tranquility of Neutral Tones

    In recent years, neutral tones have firmly established themselves as the cornerstone of modern home styling. These soft, calming hues serve as a blank canvas, allowing the natural beauty of architectural details and furnishings to truly shine. Be it the creamy whites, soft beiges, or the gentle greys, incorporating neutral tones in your living space can create an atmosphere of tranquility and sophistication.

    Bringing the Outdoors In

    Nothing breathes life into a home quite like incorporating elements of nature into your décor. One way to seamlessly do this is by introducing a rustic branch as a centerpiece on your kitchen island or dining table. This simple addition can not only bring a touch of organic elegance to your home but also create a harmonious link between your indoor space and the natural world outside, fostering a sense of calm and balance.

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    Adding a Burst of Color

    While neutral tones create a calming backdrop, a splash of color can truly elevate the aesthetic of your home. Whether it’s vibrant cushions, bold artwork, or a statement piece of furniture, adding hints of color can infuse your living space with personality and flair. Consider incorporating accessories in hues that complement the neutral palette, creating a cohesive yet lively ambiance.

    Moreover, don’t shy away from bringing fresh flowers into your dining area. A bouquet of fresh blooms can instantly uplift the space, adding a burst of color and a touch of freshness that seamlessly blends with the neutral tones.

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    Crafting Your Personal Oasis

    Home styling is a journey of crafting spaces that resonate with your personal style and preferences. By blending the soothing appeal of neutral tones with elements of nature and strategic splashes of color, you can create a home that is not only stylish but also a true reflection of you – a space where comfort meets elegance, offering a haven of peace and joy in the bustling world.

    Until next time, happy home styling!

    xo,
    Louise

    Wellness Wednesdays: Embracing Serenity in Nature

    Self Care by louise

    🌿 Wellness Wednesday

    In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s a precious gift to find moments where time seems to slow down, allowing us to reconnect with the tranquil rhythms of nature. This Wellness Wednesday, I invite you to embrace serenity, to immerse yourself in the calm and to rejuvenate your soul.

    As you navigate through your day, take a moment to bask in this visual sanctuary—a tender nudge encouraging you to appreciate the slower, more tranquil moments that anchor us. Picture yourself nestled in a park, amidst the lush arms of nature, or in a tranquil haven of joy, with the vibrant tones of greenery offering a comforting hug. Envision a melody, mingling harmoniously with the soft rustling of leaves and the gentle murmurs of the breeze.

    Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and let the tranquil scenery fill your senses. Allow the chirping birds to serenade you, the gentle breeze to hug you, and the vivid colors to paint a canvas of peace in your mind. You’re not just observing nature; you are a part of it, grounded and connected in the most beautiful way.

    This Wellness Wednesday, embrace the initiative to nurture your well-being, to breathe deeply and to soak in the quiet moments that bring us back to our center. A reminder to cherish these moments of stillness, for in them, we find our true selves.

    Remember, wellness is not a one-time event but a journey. Let’s journey well.

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    Casual Outfit
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    Sneakers
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    Jewelry

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    Photography Credit: @angiagarciaphoto

    xo,
    Louise

    A Very Barbie Bathroom for a Teen Girl

    Interiors by louise

    It’s all in the details. When designing my little girl’s bathroom during the build stage of our home, I wanted something feminine, colorful, and elegant. I recall leveraging Pinterest as my platform for collecting different interior spaces, and then looking at how best to maximize the space with placements of cabinets and everything in between. Color was one of the areas I wanted in her bathroom without it being overwhelmingly pink. I chose tiles that had a soft pink to it, a neutral wall paint palette, and some gold fixtures. Finishing touches were frames, Visual Comfort lighting, and some faux rose flowers. 

    Steps to remember when designing a bathroom or any space:

    • Know the layout of the space and a general color palette you’d like
    • Do some research on designs with the color palette you have in mind. I used Google and Pinterest.
    • Create a Pinterest board, Google folder, or a layout in Canva, and save the designs. They will likely be the foundation for inspiration.
    • Visit a design studio or home store and try to find items in your design, such as bathroom tiles, floor tiles, cabinet pulls, etc.
    • Layout the different pieces. You may have to mix/match or try different combinations to see how best everything looks together. 
    • If possible, see if you can take the samples home with you. Lighting in the store can be very different compared to the lighting in your home.
    • Lay everything out at your home (new or remodel) and see how it fits with the look you’re going for, and that’s about it. 
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    Visual Comfort Wall Sconce

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    Similar Wall Mount Faucet
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    Cabinet Knobs (TK961)

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    Similar Mirror

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    Bathroom Details

    Shower Wall: Ripple Rose (3 * 6),  Bullnose: Ripple Rose (1/2 * 12), Grout: Bright White, Soap Niche: White Matte Hex (1 * 1 pattern), Shower Floor: White Matte Hex (1 * 1 pattern), Tile Floor: Carrara Matte Hexagon, Cabinet Maple Paint color: Cloud White-CC40, Wall Paint Color: Sherwin-Williams SW 7008 Alabaster, Paint Trim Color: Benjamin Moore Cloud White CC-40 

    Photography Credit: @angiagarciaphoto

    xo,
    Louise

    Floral Dress Edit

    Style by louise

    Florals are gradually becoming a favorite to wear as we start to transition into Fall season. I am seeing so many floral patterns and colors, and there’s just something about florals that is feminine. Whether I’m slipping on a floral dress for an occasion, the result feels just right and I am reminded of a refined style.  See below for my complete floral dress edit!

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    Red Dress Ivory Floral Dress

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    Ted Baker Dress

     

     

     
    H&M Dress

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    xo,
    Louise

    How I’m Finding Time for Art

    Art by louise

    A story about art and wellness…

    My love for art started young. I remember entering in art competitions and winning at a young age, looking at and drawing pictures from fairytale books, and then practicing portrait sketches with family. It is likely no wonder that I decided to study art at the University when i was older and have been drawn to anything creative ever since; pottery, painting, and interior decorating. Over the years, I got different degrees and focused on other things like family and pursuing a career in business that I completely lost track of  what brings me the most peace and calm. I’m sure we’ve all felt that way at some point in our lives, which brings me to this juncture of making the effort to do what brings me joy and overall happiness. I started getting back into sketching during quiet evenings and began taking a pottery class or two, and I can’t be more happier of my 4th drawing with graphite pencil in this post and all the mental wellbeing it has brought to me.  

    If you’re looking at starting a new hobby or getting back into doing what makes you happy, here are a few inspirational tips:

    • Take the first step. It only takes that first nudge and consistency. 
    • Give yourself grace. Getting back into your passion can be a slow process, Be patient with that process.  
    • Good things take time and perseverance is everything. Just because you’re getting back and struggling doesn’t mean you should give up. We’ve all heard the saying that practice makes perfect.
    • Most of all, make the time to do the things you love. Doing what you love is like therapy for the soul. 
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    Art Supplies

    This sketch was drawing Day 10 (starting something new and finishing it in 2-3 days). This was my 4th sketch using graphite pencils H, 2B, 4B, 6B, and 8B. The paper used for this is Bristol smooth paper and you can get this from any art supply store or on Amazon.  For someone who hasn’t sketched or painted in forever, it’s been such a rewarding experience. Even though it is not a perfect piece of art, I am proud of what I created and how this was like therapy for my overall well-being. You’ll be seeing more pieces from me in the near future. 

    xo,
    Louise

    How to Care for Your Hair this Summer

    Self Care by louise

    When the summer months call for hair care and hydration to accommodate the hot sunny days …

    Oh how I love the summer months – but with the sun, heat, beach, and pool, it can be pretty rough on anyone’s hair. For many years, I have tried different hair masks, oils, and creams for my hair and don’t get me started on the styles; from a pixie cut to Brazilian blow-outs, coloring, etc.  Over the last few years, I started paying closer attention to hair health and overall well-being. 

    Environment can affect your hair so invest in a good hair mask and routine treatments to revitalize your hair strength, growth, and texture. Diet and age can change the lusciousness and thickness of your hair, and what you eat can affect your health, skin, hair. In the summer months, I pay extra attention. In my mid-forties, I have learned to embrace age and my health, and how I manage stress and our environment. I have also learned to be kinder to myself and love on my natural curls and hair color.  My tips are: 

    1. Don’t wash your hair too regularly as this strips the hair of its natural oils. The perfect frequency is 2-3 days.
    2. Freshen up on the go. I have a few favorites I’ve linked here and a hydrating mask here. 
    3. Take it easy on your hair.  The summer sun can be scorching and can quickly dry up the hair, including humidity based on where you’re at so if possible, keep heated appliances, like curling irons and blow dryers to a minimum. 
    4. Lastly, do everything to hydrate.  Hydrate your hair using clean products but also back to my earlier point above, hydrate your body by drinking the right amount of fluids, and most importantly, pay attention to what you eat. Our appearance isa reflection of our insides so stay hydrated and you’ll have healthy hair.  
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    I have listed a few hair products, including the Ceremonia brand. Ceremonia is a clean haircare line and so far I am loving their super serum curl activator.  Please note that this is not a paid ad, just my personal opinion on what clean haircare products I’ve been using lately that are for all hair types; coily, curly, wavy, or straight hair, and I want to share with you. 

    Let me know in the comments below what you do to keep your hair in great condition during the hot summer months.

    xo,
    Louise

    Homemade Vegan Naan Bread

    Recipes by louise

    Homemade Naan

    It’s been a while since I shared a simple recipe so I wanted to do so today! This naan recipe is so good and made with clean ingredients. It reminds me of Lebanese bread I grew up eating as a kid but tastier. Whenever I make it, it is devoured by the family and kids before end of day!!! Great with butter of choice or with an Indian dish. I usually make it when we are having tikka masala which I make using plant ingredients and tofu :). 

    Recipe is below and takes all but 15 minutes to prep and then adding in resting time for the dough to rise. It is totally worth it!

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    Recipe and Instructions

    Servings: 6-8 naans

    Prep Time: 15 minutes    Cook Time: 20 Minutes     Total Time: 35 minutes plus 1 hour rising time

    Ingredients: 

    • 2 Cups organic flour
    • 1 Tsp Himalayan salt
    • 1 Tbsp coconut or cane sugar
    • 1 Tsp dry yeast (or homemade sourdough starter)
    • 3-4 Tbsp coconut yogurt (or other plant based yogurt of choice)
    • 2 Tbsp olive oil
    • 3/4 cup lukewarm water
    • Garnish:  2 Tbsp soft plant butter (I use Miyokos organic plant milk butter), and 1-2 Tbsp chopped fresh Italian parsley 

    Instructions:

    • In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (minus the yeast and sugar) and set aside
    • In a medium bowl, add the yeast and sugar to the lukewarm water. Mix it well and set aside for 5 minutes.
    • Whisk together the yogurt and olive oil, and add to the dry ingredients. After 5 minutes, add the yeast and sugar water mix to the ingredients.  Mix well.
    • The dough will be sticky. If it is too wet and sticky, add a little flour to the dough mix until it is soft but not sticky.
    • Put the dough in a clean glass bowl, and cover with a plastic wrap or kitchen towel. Let it rest for 45 minutes to an hour.
    • Once the dough rises, fill a small bowl with a 1/2-1 cup of flour.  Dust a clean work surface with some of the flour and take small rounded pieces of dough to shape with your hands. Roll out each portion of the dough into a round shape. Pick up the dough and flip it back and forth a couple times to remove any excess flour from rolling.
    • On a hot skillet or non-stick griddle, gently lay the naan and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the bottom is lightly browned. Flip it to the opposite side and cook again until there are lightly browned blistered spots (tip: I like to add a little plant butter to the griddle before doing the second flip, I notice that it makes the naan more tasty and extra buttery). Remove the naan from the skillet and while hot, lightly brush with the room temperature plant butter of choice. 
    • Repeat for the remaining naan. You can also garnish with freshly chopped Italian parsley for more flavor. 
    • Serve warm. You can store any leftovers in a ziplock bag for 2-3 days and reheat when ready but I doubt you will have any leftovers because they are simply delicious! 

    I hope you try making this naan bread. If you do, let me know what you think.

    xo,
    Louise

    Entryway Photo Tour

    Interiors by louise

    The entryway can set the tone for the whole home.

    I always look forward to creating and refreshing this space since it sets the tone for visitors and introduce the style of the rest of the interior.  Whether you have a wide, long, or round entryway, styling this space can be quite tricky. 

    There are different ways to style an entryway, but there are a few essentials to the recipe to create a balanced and elevated look. What I have learned is to keep a few constants as a foundation, like a console table, mirror, and lamp. With having these constants, it is much easier to swap simple decor items and play around with new styles and seasonal changes. The combinations of books, candles, vase, ottomans, baskets, and so forth are endless. Even adding artwork and florals can brighten up the space and change the entire look altogether. 

    I was going for a clean and welcoming atmosphere for summer with some transitional autumn pieces. Scroll through to see the photo tour and read all the details.

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    The Wall, Lighting, and Floors

    I wanted the entryway to feel breezy and welcoming and this was something that was taken into account with the choice of strong, clean lines and a rectangular hallway. I always knew I wanted an entryway that wasn’t overly grande but also not too boxy.  Key items I took into account as I designed this space was flooring and paint color choices. 

    Wood floor: White oak with grain count and stained  // Wall Color: Sherwin-Williams Alabaster SW7008 // Trim: Sherwin-Williams Dove Wing 960 // Ceiling: Sherwin-Williams Cloud White CC-40

    Lighting and Rugs

    Lighting was an important element for the entryway. Since my home has clean lines, I opted for a chandelier that has straight lines and a classic timeless look, giving me all the feels of visual comfort lighting. As a note, light fixtures can make all the difference in your home and with the look you are trying to achieve. I have linked the chandelier below the blog post.

    I am a fan of rugs in entryways and liked this one because of the lack of fibers, the color, and the ability to quickly clean the surface. It doesn’t hide dirt and it was a good choice given that this is a high traffic area especially when we are entertaining.

    Decor Pieces and Accessories

    I have to confess that I designed this space twice already.  Sometimes designing a room can be a work in progress or that of trial and error. It is just a matter of patience to figure out your style and what works best for you. I think my goal of wanting to create freshness and brighten up this entryway, led to some of the pieces I chose for this area, like the entryway table which completely changed this area!  

    Accessories that I played with and you can too for your entryway was adding a faux plant, and some books, earthenware vases, iron candle sticks, and other decor pieces. The possibilities are endless! Our ottomans serve both function and design. Since we have a “no shoe” policy in our home, it is a great place for visitors to sit and take off their shoes. I absolutely love it! 

    In a hallway, especially where space can be limited, using every opportunity to blend form, function, and texture can make all the difference. I am very happy with how this all turned out, and I hope this inspires you in some way when you want an entryway refresh.

    Photography credit: @angiegarciaphoto

    xo,
    Louise

    @LOUISEMILLEN