Evolving Appeal

Photographed by William Waldron for Elle Decor, the feature on the Edwardian home in San Francisco's Presidio Heights neighborhood found me while thumbing through the magazine in the park. (I also realized the home is one I admire frequently on my running route in the neighborhood).  Although I personally think the dining room resembles more of a boardroom I'd picture in Aerin Lauder's office for example, I keep examining the space. While I appreciate photography as an art form, I have historically preferred seeing paintings, sculpture and the like in what I believe should be kept as a formal room. This photograph however has me thinking differently. The design elements are modern and fresh but because it's juxtaposed by dark wainscoting and beautiful moldings, it works for me. The home was done by San Francisco designer Palmer Weiss. View more images of the home below.

Thoughts

The alarmingly sad news about the missing Malaysia Airlines jetliner is still plaguing the thoughts of us all. I cannot even begin to imagine what the family members and friends of the passengers are feeling, the thought of the unknown in this scenario is perhaps most troubling. My thoughts are with everyone involved and wishful for some concrete answers soon. Image via

Wes Anderson Delivers

You bet your bottom dollar you'll find me at the movie theater Friday evening with wide eyes for Wes Anderson's latest creation, "The Grand Budapest Hotel." Historically, Wes Anderson's films haven't tickled the fancy of all movie folk, however this one is worthy of giving a second glance. Critics are already calling it "the film of the year" and there seems to be new cheery chatter every day. Be sure to read this article in the NY Times before you buy your popcorn (or hot dog, in my case).

For the Love of Birds!

Our beloved Norman Bird Sanctuary was featured in the NY Times on Wednesday, highlighting the restoration of the 18th century farmhouse on the property. The farmhouse will play host to a variety of visitors going forward, from yoga retreats, artists' residencies and serve as a weekend hideaway for families looking to nestle among the pastoral landscape. The bird sanctuary encompasses 325 acres overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Sakonnet River in Middletown, Rhode Island. For any one that is familiar with the Bird Sanctuary, it truly is a special place, a landmark among the beauty of our community. (I have fond memories of summer camp expeditions on the grounds catching frogs, hiking to Hanging Rock and frolicking among the tall trees). It was the wish of Mabel Norman Cerio, a local artist who actually lived in the farmhouse during the 19th century, to bestow the property “for the propagation, preservation, and protection of birds, and where birds and bird life may be observed, studied, taught, and enjoyed by lovers of nature and by the public generally so interested in a spirit of humanity and mercy.” In 1949, Mabel's wish was granted through the gift of her trust and today, the Bird Sanctuary remains to be an iconic organization enriching the lives of all who value the power of nature.

Currently, the Bird Sanctuary is offering Farmhouse Lunch Tours every Friday so you may get a glimpse of the completed project. Visit here for more details.

Images via.