Time for some quick changes, it's party time.

BEFORE MANTEL
I have a client that is having a New Year's Party and wanted "a few" updates to her living room.  They were on a tight budget but I was able to add some great touches that were within their budget.  Simplicity was key here and I think it looks really classy.
I redid her mantel, added some accessories, down filled pillows and an arrangement to her dining room table. 
AFTER MANTEL
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE LIVING ROOM
Added some pillows to give some color and personality
AFTER LIVING ROOM
BEFORE KITCHEN DINING
Made her a new arrangement for her table.
AFTER KITCHEN DINING

QUICK CHANGES THAT MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE!
Who says it has to cost a fortune?

Did someone say "Perfect"?

Found this Candelabra today while I was out "thrifting".  Came home and was browsing through my Wisteria Catalog I received in the mail today and the exact Candelabra (Iron Candelabrum) I found today was for sale in  the catalog.  What's the chance of that happening?  I was thrilled because I LOVE everything that has the Wisteria name on it.
Go here to see the Wisteria Catalog.
I was happy because I got a "great deal" on mine!  Did someone say perfect?
Sometimes you hit the jackpot, sometimes you don't.  Today was a good day!
I also found the following items for some bookshelves that I'm redoing.  They will be perfect to add some interest, texture, shape and color to the shelves that are currently BORING and cluttered.
This handsome copper urn carries such a dignified presence.
Awesome shape.
This kind of urn is also wonderful for pencils, pens, paperclips, etc.  I've even put pillar candles in them.
Filled with shells, rocks, stones, coral, etc.
Heavy alabaster glass on top of a great pedestal..  I'm going to use this for a floral arrangement or may put it up on a shelf that has a window behind it so the glass is showcased for all to see.
Naturally beautiful.  Found these items separate but love the way they dance together.
Sturdy statement slate cross.
Crafted from iron, this iron candelabra holds 5 taper candles.  However, candles don't have to be used.  It can remain empty or you could add grass balls to the top of them.
Like these.
Truly a stunning silver piece.  I'll polish it up and get it even more beautiful.  Love the etching around the edge.
I see this finial stacked on top of some old books.  Got some of those from my trip to France.
Couldn't pass up this oval beveled mirror!!  Great character.
No room is complete without a little greenery.  I know I'll find the perfect place for these two lovelies.  Maybe I'll even pair them with these birdies I found last month "treasure hunting"

or maybe with these concrete urns..I've got them in my office right now and they are filled with a Christmas ornament and old keys from France.
I love finding items that I love.  Most of the time I don't know where they are going to go or how they are going to be used.  However, if I love the item, I buy it.  It's such fun when you can start pairing things together and find the perfect place for each treasure.
It's time to open up a "Ruthie's Renewed Treasures" storefront.

Spanish Welcome

Today I'm participating in Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps On The Porch
Click here to see additional before and afters pictures.
My incredible husband made me this tile plaque for Christmas.
While we were in Spain, I really enjoyed all the Spanish tile work we saw.  I bought the above tiles in a little shop while visiting the town of Taledo. Of course they had to be attached to a plaque somehow.  I had a plan and envisioned our name hanging on our front porch.

My husband listened well and he did an amazing job and he distressed the wood just like I described to him. It's exactly what I pictured and I'm so grateful for this special gift.
Here are some other spectacular tiles that I admired during our visit to Spain.

I love how worn they are.

Great color.
Enjoy your Monday.
Ruthie

British Christmas Cake Tradition

We’ve all heard them – the infamous fruitcake jokes. Why is history like a fruit cake? Because it is full of dates! Why do fruitcakes make ideal gifts? Because the Postal Service has been unable to find a way to damage them.  Although we might poke fun, we must admit that Christmas wouldn't be the same without it. To our family it's not a joke, we love the Christmas Fruit Cake that's been in our family for many generations.

No British Christmas is complete without a Christmas Cake. We have had this tradition in our family for years now. My mom has always made this wonderful fruit cake and the grand kids usually help her add all the little figurines each year.   We keep thinking that they are getting too big but each year THEY LOVE IT.

My sister and I usually  make sure we get our share of the cake after Christmas Day is over.  It's delicious with coffee.  I've already had several pieces.
All Christmas cakes are made in advance. Many make them in November, keeping the cake upside down in an airtight container. A small amount of brandy, sherry or whisky is poured into holes in the cake every week until Christmas. This process is called “feeding” the cake.

The cakes are always covered in marzipan and then a layer of sweet icing is put on top.  Always decorated to the hilt.
I'd love to hear about your family traditions!
Ruthie