I love wine.  I must admit that I’m fairly new to the whole passion and have quite a bit to learn and appreciate yet.  But now that I’ve acquired a taste, I’m thankfully eternally hooked for life.

Does this sound like anyone close to you?  If there’s a wine lover on your holiday gift list, take a look at these fun and eclectic (and affordable too) wine related gifts.  Throw in a few bottles of their favorite vintage and you’ll be delivering the best present ever.  Here goes:

Chef Wine Holder

Isn’t this little guy fun?  Looks like the chef’s giving all the effort he can possibly muster to present his favorite bottle graciously to you!  He’s hard to resist!

Butler Wine Bucket

Making a great compliment to the chef above, his friend the butler keeps a favorite bottle perfectly chilled and ready to serve with glee.  These fun caricatures are eager to serve adding a little sparkle to even the best bubbly.

Notting Hill Best Cellar Cabinet Knobs

These little cabinet knobs can turn any old cabinet in to a wine cellar.  Or leave it up to creativity and apply them wherever the imagination permits - perfect for contributing to an over all wine ambiance.

Happy Hour Wine Selection Wall Art

Keeping with the eclectically fun theme, here’s the perfect compliment piece for any wine lover’s party.  The perfect way to announce to guests exactly what varietals the host is serving this evening.

Pedestal Sinks have always been and will always be timeless.  Here’s why:

Reason Number One - They’re Completely Clutter Free

Pedestal sinks keep things organized by hiding the clutter.  “But how can that be,” you ask.  “They have no place to store things underneath.”  That’s the point exactly.  No place for clutter with this stylish Porcher Lutezia sink, is there?  Without a place to hide a growing collection of needless clutter, there’s no reason to have the extra stuff in the first place.  It’s a perfect solution in my eyes.

Reason Number Two - They’re Consistently Classic

Part of being timeless is doing so with class and style.  This is exactly why pedestal sinks are perpetually popular.  When was the last time you walked into a bathroom and thought to yourself, “There’s a pedestal sink in here, this bathroom looks so old fashioned?”  I know I’ve never asked myself that question.  They’re classic enough that they just don’t ever go out of style.

Reason Number Three - They’re Superbly Sleek and Slender

Sleek means simple - nothing to confuse the eye when it comes to style and less to get in the way.  Which leads us to the slim factor.  In bathrooms with less than ample square footage, the pedestal sink has a way of being slender enough to squeeze right in there with no problems at all.  Some models like this Kallista Stafford pedestal sink even tuck away nicely into an available corner.

Reason Number Four - They’re Fantastically Functional

Yes, a simple pedestal sink gets the job done just the same as any fancy vanity encumbered sink would.  In fact, some would argue that the actually do the job better because they were designed for one task and one task only.  No confusing double duties.  At the same time, their single use functionality also has the bonus of pedestal sinks really easy to clean.

Reason Number Five - They’re Amazingly Affordable

Perhaps my favorite reason of all, pedestal sinks are often really affordable!  For proof, check out this Barclay Stanford 460 Pedestal Lavatory.  Just add your favorite faucet set and it’s good to go (and a really great bargain: I promise)!  Sure, you can upgrade for all the fancy bells and whistles and extra costs, but a basic unit will under price a full vanity set with all the hardware and parts every time.

Have you ever been a victim of identity theft or know someone who has?

I have.  Let me tell you, it’s not very fun.  In fact, while trying to straighten out the mess caused by the thieves, it’s not uncommon to be put through the ringers yourself - from the endless phone tag with creditors to being treated as just about anything but a victim.

We hear the horror stories of complete identities being bought and sold for pocket change via black market internet auctions.  Naturally, we’re really particular about who we share any personal information with online and off.  But do you know where your private information is just as likely to be stolen from as any other place?

If you guessed the good old fashioned postal mailbox, you’d be correct.  Think of just how much personal data sits in a compartment right out on the street side that’s accessible by practically anyone who walks or drives by.  From bank statements to credit card applications - it’s full of your identity just waiting to be taken by any common thief.

However, there is a really simple solution: The locking mailbox.  It allows the mail carrier to drop the mail right in, but requires you personally to open it and remove the contents.

Locking mailboxes are really nothing new, but the Securelogic Keyless Mail Vault really is totally unique.  Instead of requiring an easily lost or forgotten key, you simple punch in your digits right on the built in keypad to unlock it.  It doesn’t get any easier than that!

That’s why it’s this week’s find of the week.  It solves a prevalent problem with a practical yet convenient solution.  Well done, Securelogic.

It’s Cyber Monday: know what that means?

Actually, it’s more than just surviving another holiday full of delicious calories and all of the travel madness that goes with it.  Just as the Friday after Thanksgiving is considered the busiest retail shopping day of the year, the Monday after the holiday weekend is much the same for internet based shopping, thus the “Cyber Monday” moniker.

Sure, you’ve seen all the great deals on what’s supposed to be the very hottest items of the year.  But when you actually consider the wishes of your favorite gift recipients, wouldn’t it be fun to find gifts that are a little more creative?

So forget about video games and the latest fashions in clothing.  Here are a few ideas for those who are into their homes (like so many of us here):

Roomba Robotic Vacuum - Let me tell you, this cleaning gadget is just about my favorite invention ever.  My wife and I received one last year for Christmas and have not needed to sweep the downstairs hard surface floors since.  Seriously.  Way more than a geeky toy, the Roomba works serious cleaning wonders on both hard floors and carpets.  This is one gift that will be loved by all recipients!

Artful Decorations - Everyone loves art, right?  That is, they especially love it if it represents something that they really love in life or strikes up a sense of imagination, creativity, or energy that is just inspiring.  Only you know the specific tastes of your intended giftees, but don’t dismiss this often overlooked but always favorite holiday gift.

A Kitchen Upgrade - I’m not kidding, one of the best gifts I could possibly imagine receiving would be an upgraded kitchen.  It doesn’t necessarily need to be a total renovation, but maybe just a new Hansgrohe Allegro gourmet kitchen faucet or what ever it is that your favorite cook would really, really appreciate.  Plus, this one automatically wins the unique gift award: hands down.

Power Tools - What home improvement fanatic wouldn’t cherish the gift of a flashy new power tool to compliment the arsenal they use all the time?  You know just who’s on your list that loves tools.  Chances are, they have a few items on their tool wish list that they’ve been too bashful to mention.  Just find out what those may be and give the gift that keeps on working.

Be different this season and give a gift that’s out of the box even before it’s unwrapped, if you know what I mean.  Pick something that will be a favorite for your favorite home fanatic.  More ideas coming soon!

How’s your home’s outdoor lighting? If you’re like me, until fairly recently, it was neglected to say the least. Actually, a better way to describe the state of my outdoor lighting fixtures on my home’s front and back entryways was quite decrepit.

Sure, the tarnished and corroded brass lighting fixtures were functional - that is, they kept the area lit. But wow, were they ever ugly. The thing is, the outdoor lighting fixtures on our homes all too often go unnoticed. That’s why I’m writing this post.

It’s time to take notice. And to help, I’d like to take a few minutes to introduce you to a few of the most popular lighting fixtures from the Minka Great Outdoors collection - one of my favorites because of fashionable styling and impeccable quality at the same time.

The Great Outdoors Bridgeport Wall Lantern

This is a timelessly classic light fixture and its popularity proves it. Available in antique bronze, black, or white finishes, the Bridgeport is nicely proportioned and features a look that will fit perfectly with homes both old and new alike. I’m particularly fond of the multi-paned lens look. Sized just right for either single placement or equally well-suited for use in pairs - your preference.

The Great Outdoors Bay View Wall Lantern

I think you’re going to love the simplicity of this stylish craftsman and deco influenced outdoor light fixture as much as I do. The slightly frosted glass blends perfectly for just the right radiant glow at night. It’s not uncommon to see similar fixtures for sale here and there, but the available oil rubbed bronze and stainless steel finishes are part of what’s unique about this favorite Minka fixture.

The Great Outdoors Sage Ridge Dark Sky Lantern

First things first, the most telling characteristic of this beautiful light fixture is it’s wonderful vintage rust patina - a finish that speaks volumes in the mind’s eye. Next, pay extra attention to the antique inspired scrollwork. It’s truly an ageless piece, don’t you think? Again, it’s no surprise this fixture is so popular!

But that’s not it - while these examples represent the favorites from the line, there’s a plethora of equally wonderful Great Outdoors fixtures, one as creative and finely crafted as the next. Check them out and I promise you won’t be disappointed at all:

There’s almost nothing better than a good juicy steak and perhaps even the always favorite veggies deliciously grilled to perfection.  Sure, it’s easy to accomplish this grill master’s feat when working with a chef’s grill and the perfect grilling tools at home.  But what about those times when it would be great to have savory fare on the go?

Have you ever wanted to create gourmet quality meals while:

•    Camping?
•    Tailgating?
•    Picnicking?
•    Boating?

If so, then this week’s find of the week is just what you’ve been waiting for.  In fact, the Napoleon Prestige II Portable Grill really is the ultimate portable chef’s machine!

Constructed out of heavy stainless steel, it’s absolutely built to last.  It’s also built to cook with plenty of grate space to keep things sizzling.

Now, I realize that the best time of the year to grill on the go is dwindling (but there’s still some good football tailgating season left).  That said, it is the season for giving and the Napoleon Prestige would certainly make a fantastic Christmas gift for the adventure chef amongst your family or group of friends.

This find of the week couldn’t come at a better time.  Here’s to the ultimate portable grilling experience for many, many years to come!

How About a Fireplace Like This?

I love this fireplace! The fireplace itself is the Napoleon High Country wood burning fireplace - yes the snap and crackle of real wood. But beyond the firebox itself, isn’t the hearth and stone surround beautiful too? I’m inspired, to say the least.

Decorating For Christmas - Start Anew

Have you ever thought about starting over - you know, not putting every little thing out just because you’ve had it for years? I’ve never really given much thought to the concept, but this post on starting a new sort of enlightened me a bit as I began to think about some of the décor I’m not exactly very fond of. Know what I mean?

So you’ve Already Got the Doggie Door?

Well then. How about this nifty doggie window so your favorite pooch can peek through the backyard fence and keep an eye out for what’s going on on the other side. Okay, I agree, this is a little ridiculous, but it’s pretty hilarious too! Maybe just enough so to warrant my purchase. I’m sure my next door neighbors would get a kick out of it also.

Creative Switch Covers

Here’s a creative and fun idea if you’re into the eclectic décor thing - paint or recover light switch covers strategically to match nearby themes colors. Might not exactly be right up everyone’s alley, but a unique idea nonetheless.

Add Some More Living Space in the Back Yard

It’s becoming quite the little trend. That is, adding a little versatile space in the yard or garden by converting a shed into livable or at least usable square feet. Kids can use it as a clubhouse or it could even be a fair weather office space - actually the possibilities are limited only to the imagination.

Making New Look Old (In a Good Way)

Paying homage to the fine craftsmanship and quality of years now long past is a fun and inspiring way to finish a space. Little details here and there are easy to add, sometimes even using elements and components that do have some history themselves. Love it!

Are you prepared (decorating wise) for the big Turkey Day get together? Fret not - if you still need a few finishing touches to really enhance the spirit of the holiday at your home, it’s not too late. Here are a few quick Thanksgiving décor ideas that can be put together in practically no time at all:

Easy Thanksgiving Wreath Centerpiece - Try this easy, yet elegant project for assembling a beautiful Thanksgiving centerpiece using either fresh fall fare or readily available artificial materials found at any craft store.

Add Autumn Touches Everywhere - It’s standard to cover the dining room table centerpiece - and that’s fine - but to really make your home shine for your holiday guests, take it even a little bit further. Yes, adding special touches and color throughout the home really helps set the Thanksgiving mood.

Every Thanksgiving Celebration Needs a Cornucopia - This idea will take a little bit of time, but I promise the results will be well worth the effort! Basically, you’ll be making a cornucopia out of bread. While not really edible in the end, it’ll certainly help your home smell totally delicious and look great too.

Make Turkey Day Fun for the Kids Too - That’s right, the kids deserve a little attention too when it comes to holiday décor. Here’s a fun craft project that you can even use to help keep the kids busy. Just be sure to supervise with the hot glue gun and craft knife:

Try a Festive Fruit Bouquet - This one’s really fun for Thanksgiving or any other occasion really. Just take some assorted fresh fruit and a few other components that you probably already have around the house already and assemble for imaginative fruit beauty.

The Thanksgiving Cheat Sheet - Okay, this isn’t really about décor, but if you still need some help with the big day, this is more or less a complete guide to all things Thanksgiving. Lots of great ideas and helpful suggestions here, all guaranteed to save the day if things go wrong!

When it’s all about being really unique, it’s no secret that the Rohl authentic luxury line of bath and kitchen fixtures makes its mark time and time again. We’re talking about luxury design, both in aesthetics and functionality. In fact, I can personally attest to Rohl’s high standards - I’ve recently purchased and installed a Rohl bridge style kitchen faucet in my own home.

To further introduce all of you to Rohl, please allow me to highlight where they really stand out against other manufacturers:

Mastering the Kitchen Sink

That’s right: Rohl makes some of the most beautiful kitchen sinks available. Sure, they’re a little on the pricey side - but that’s to be expected for luxury quality products, right? I’m especially fond of their one piece farm style sinks like this [single bowl fireclay sink. That said, Rohl also excels when it comes to uniquely proportioned double bowl kitchen sinks.

Improving the Kitchen Faucet

Rohl designs faucets like no other. Sure, you’ll find plenty of interesting designs by other faucet makers, but nothing quite like Rohl kichen faucets. Their dual lever bridge style faucets like the one I’ve recently installed myself are really great, but don’t dismiss the single lever models like the Rohl Country Pull-out Faucet or perhaps this single lever faucet that includes the handspray unit.

Individualizing the Bathroom Sink

Where else do you find a perfectly concise hand rinse basin like this? That’s Rohl’s commitment to creating wonderfully niche targeted products for you! Their standard sized bathroom sink basins are equally creative. In fact, all bathroom and lavatory sinks by Rohl exude that edginess that’s so desirable today.

Building Better Bathroom Faucets

Rohl’s bathroom faucets easily equally the distinctiveness and quality of their kitchen line, without a doubt. Featuring stunning lines impeccably finished in only the most durable and lasting metals and colors, they definitely give the competition a run for their money! And don’t let me forget to mention the bath and shower plumbing fixtures: Rohl makes really great shower heads and bath faucets too.

Meticulously Matching Bath Accessories

What good is it to rough in a new bathroom remake with only the best fixtures but then neglect to tie it all together with matching accessories? Rohl again makes it possible with their complete line of bath accessories matching their plumbing fixtures in both finish and designs. Believe me, not every bathroom fixture line includes these much sought after pieces.

In Conclusion:

Rohl is different from the rest of the pack. They offer more and over deliver in many ways. Sure, their offerings are pricier than plain Jane contractor grade fixtures, but let me tell you - they’re worth every penny spent!

Just got back from a gallivant around town to proactively replace some all red holiday light strands that I wasn’t able to find anywhere last year because they were totally sold out.  I knew I would need to start early in order to find exactly what I was looking for, but don’t worry… I won’t actually be putting them up until after Thanksgiving at least!

While I with I could do the ultimate outdoor lighting show, I think I’m going to have to stick to the basics for now.  Anyway, after running all over the place trying to find what I was looking for, I’m happy to be able to share my report on what looks to be the popular outdoor decorating fare for the season.  Here’s what’s hot:

Star Shaped Lights - You’ve seen them before… you know, about ten or so stars around 8 to 12 inches across on a chain of string lights.  It appears that these will be more popular than ever this year.

Animatronics Statuary - The wire framed lighted reindeer that move their heads from side to side appear to still be as popular (and affordable) as ever.  I wouldn’t have predicted this myself, but the retailers are apparently considering them to be a safe bet!

Miniature Lighted Christmas Trees - These started to really take off last year.  A pair of the skinny artificial trees, about three or four feet tall each, make perfect accents on either side of the front door.  Or better yet, a dozen or so would look awesome lining the front walkway.

And here’s what’s not hot:

Icicle Lights - Remember the first time you saw these and just had to have them?  Well, they’re fairly commonplace up and down the block now.  However, I can officially report that I didn’t see them for sale anywhere.  Is the trend at a standstill for awhile?

Blower Powered Giant Snowmen - Including Frosty the Snowman, Santa, reindeer, or any other characters you’ve seen represented by the larger than life blow ups over the last few years.  These have been really popular for several years now, but as the novelty has begun to wear off, they’re not available for purchase like they have been previously.

In the end, it’s really just up to each of us to express our own creativity and have a little bit of fun doing it.  But remember just one thing - if you’re looking for something specific, find it now before the selection is all picked over!