Vintage Sugar Bowls!

Hi Friends:

Before you start reading this post, do me a favor; open the door to your pantry and take a look at your sugar storage situation. I have a feeling if you are like most of us, it probably looks a bit disorganized with ripped and clipped bags and boxes stuffed on a shelf probably spilling their contents and probably making a royal mess. In-and-of-itself, this situation is not insurmountable. With some heavy duty bag clips or high quality Tupperware, your problem is solved. But, what do you do when you need "just a spoonful of sugar?" Tell me you don't dig into those bags with a teaspoon!

If you do, have I got the perfect solution for you: vintage sugar bowls! They are so beautiful, so unique, so charming and so much easier to navigate when you need just a pinch of sugar in your morning java. Vintage sugar bowls come in every size, shape, and color; but I prefer clear cut glass or crystal, utilitarian versions that fit in with any decor. Clean and classic, you just can't go wrong. Fill up your sugar bowl, keep it on your counter, add a beautiful vintage sterling silver or silver plate teaspoon (for extra flare engrave your spoon with your monogram or last initial) and presto: instant charm and no mess!

Monogram-a-holic!

My name is Nikki and I’m a monogram-a-holic. Not long ago, I was not comfortable talking about my addiction. I tried to hide it from my family and friends; but, when my three favorite letters started popping up on pillows, towels, silver spoons and trays, my husband was quickly on to me.  I think it was the large embroidered “B” on my shower curtain that compelled him to ask – what’s with the obsession? 

The answer was simple.  Monograms and initials, in every form, are beautiful.  They personalize your home, they are great conversation starters, and gosh darn, I just plain love them!

My personal philosophy on monograms follows traditional schools of thought:

• The monogram in your home should always represent the woman of the house
• A traditional monogram is:
• small initial of your first name, large initial of your last name, small initial of your middle or maiden name

I think there is one exception to the rule. I love the idea of embroidering a beautiful "married" monogram on a European size pillow to display in the middle of your bed. Follow this pattern:

• small initial of wife's first name, large initial of your shared married last name, small initial of husband's first name
  

 It's a wonderful way to visually depict two becoming one.

Happy monogramming!