http://www.shopterrain.com offers a line of vases consisting of handblown glass in various shapes and frosty blue hues; each vase has its own distinct look. It’s $44 each.

http://www.gretelhome.com has a watering can that can also double as display décor; it’s that nice-looking! Available in aqua blue or white; retails for $59.

A calendar with cute botanical illustrations retails for $16 at http://www.riflepaperco.com.

Screen-print designs on 100% linen tea towels make unique décor for any kitchen. Retail price is $17. For more info, visit http://www.shop.flowiestyle.com.

http://www.canvashomestore.com has a line of colorful (soft pastels) ceramic dessert bowls for $5 each.

http://www.savorastyle.com has a rotary grater that’s available in eight colors-and will work with either hand (good news for lefties!). The price is 29.99.

National Poinsettia Day is December 12th.  Did you know that these plants are actually not toxic to kids or pets? But their soil often harbors mold, which is not good for anyone (so I would still use extreme caution as far as having these out where there’s a gathering of people, kids or pets around). To control mold spores, don’t overwater and throw away the green when the pedals start wilting.

Kitchen Décor Trends

According to a recent report from the National Association of Realtors, nearly half of all new homeowners undertaking a home improvement project within three months of buying a residence are aiming for a kitchen overhaul.
Here’s a few current trends that may also be around for a while, based on survey results from Houzz, a home design and remodeling site and the National Kitchen & Bath Association:

A professional-level range-a stove with features like a flat griddle or a stovetop to accommodate a searing pan or a wok topped the survey (32%). Double ovens were the second most desired (18%).

Nearly half that were surveyed (49) said that using eco-friendly appliances and material in their kitchen is important.

Almost all respondents (94!) are changing their countertops. Granite is the most popular, followed by quartz and marble.
Quartz is popular because they’re resistant to scratches and stains, and easy to take care of.

Tile backsplashes was the top choice with half the respondents. “A lot of people are using the backsplash as sort of the jewelry of the kitchen,” said Houzz.com editor Shelia Schmitz. “That’s where they’ll put that splash of color, because it won’t be overwhelming.”

Other popular choices were:

Hardwood and tile floors
Stainless-steel appliances
Kitchen “islands”
Transitional style (a blend of traditional and contemporary)
White and Off-white color schemes (particularly for cabinets)
Gray color schemes

Did You Know That…..
Approximately 30 million real Christmas trees are sold in North America every year.

Sources: “the wish list” by John Lonsdale and “31 tips for a healthy you” by Camille Noe Pagan-Better Homes and Gardens, Dec. 2013 and “Kitchen Trends” by Marilyn Kalfus-The (Sunday) Vindicator, Nov. 24, 2013