A Beautiful Living Room

Here’s a beautiful room that reminds me of summer. I love the dark wood floors, the white walls and furniture, the wood accents (coffee table and chair arms), the fireplace, and the wall of windows. This is a great example of bringing nature inside your home. Isn’t it inviting? The pet dog seems happy enough.

Contemporary Living Room by Portland Interior Designer Jessica Helgerson Interior Design

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Still Made in the USA

Cool Finds and
Supporting the Home Team

If you like to support companies producing products in America, here’s a site that lists the products that are made here. Products include kitchen appliances, laundry machines, bed and bath, lawn and garden, home decor, artisan handcrafts, baby gear, toys, tools, and more.

Still Made in USA.com

I believe some of the companies sell both American and foreign products, or products that share production in two countries. I have a friend who recently had water damage in her condo. Her rugs were ruined. I came across this one that reminds me of the main rug she had in her living room with its black background and colorful floral motif.

Wayfair.com

Perhaps she can find a replacement rug or two at the Wayfair site.
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This pillow is adorable for dog lovers. It was designed by Maine artist, author, and illustrator Dahlov Ipcar. They’re made by hand in Kashmir and filled with 100% poly that’s made in the USA. These come in limited quantities and will not be duplicated. Crafted of wool thread on cotton.

ClassicRug.com

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Here’s the Grate Wall of Fire I came across. The site reads:

The “Grate Wall of Fire” high-efficiency fireplace grate makes smoke-free, self-feeding fires with exceptional warmth and radiant heat output a reality. Overall fireplace efficiency is dramatically increased when using this ingenious fireplace grate. The pleasing appearance and hefty construction of our quality grates will enhance the beauty and functionality of any fireplace or hearth.
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And a side view that visually explains the concept:

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Fascinating, eh? Clients and friends who own homes with fireplaces will no doubt find this of interest. I can’t vouch for how well it works, but if I had a fireplace of my own I would definitely research it to learn more.
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I’ve always loved artisan made things. A browse through the Handcraft Artisan section displays a wide selection of artful items that are far more unique than the mass-produced goods made elsewhere and shipped here.

Here’s their page that outlines some reasons why we might wish to consider purchasing items made here in America: Why Care Where Things Are Made?

Have fun exploring these American-made products and companies. Let me know what else you come across that looks as unique as the Grate Wall of Fire.

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The Minneapolis Institute of Arts–Photo Tour

Savoring the Arts

The art at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts is evident both inside and outside.

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Learn more about The Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Free daily museum admission. Closed Mondays.

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A Winter Scene

Photo of the Day
January 3, 2011

Photographed at Kenwood Park by Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis, MN.

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Photo of the Day: Curious Dogs

What Are They Thinking?

What would be your caption for this photo?

Pets bring great energy to a home. They are always happy to see their owners (and sometimes everybody else who comes to visit!), gladly follow you around from room to room so you’ll never be alone (or is it that they won’t be alone?), come with their own amusing set of antics which will make you smile and laugh, watch over the house and it’s occupants, play with you, snuggle with you, and provide unconditional love every day of the year. They’re definitely good people–er, pets.

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Share your caption ideas: Click on Leave a Comment below.
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The Master of the House Welcomes You Home

Photo of the Day

Everyone’s Best Friend Awaits Her Owner’s Return

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