When I looked up the word Birthday the title words are just a few that popped up. Today I’m remembering my mom Rita on what would be her 95th birthday!

Rita taught me what a well-decorated home was. How the right accessories, art and plants transform a space. That a small lamp placed anywhere is always a yes. How to group family photographs enmasse on tables or a wall gallery style. How to turn simple fabric into a curtain swag and the immense enjoyment of shelter magazines. She really had an incredible eye.

I’m tickled to have several inherited pieces here in the Chalet.

Rita in my childhood home hosting a bridal shower for my cousin Sharon 1982

She was a delightful hostess and adored welcoming friends for any occasion. I learned that a meal doesn’t need to be complicated to be the best. She prepared the very best roast beef and her chocolate syrup recipe is fantastic. I was taught how to set an elegant table. How to pick greenery from the yard for an arrangement.

“Rita taught me to appreciate beauty. ”

My love of reading is due to her and our weekly library visits.

Before marrying Daddy she modeled and understood jewelry and shoes elevate any outfit. That you should always have these staples in your wardrobe: A basic black dress that can be worn year round, lined wool pants, leather gloves, a merino wool sweater and scarves.

All things I hold dear I learned from her and I count myself blessed she was my sweet, funny and beautiful mom.

This painting by James Jebusa Shannon has for years held a special place in my heart. It reminded my sister of Mommy, she and I. Our mom had a copy of it.

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Til next time be well.

Recently my Instagram friend Marcie Millholland paid me a lovely compliment sharing how she enjoys my blog and that I’m not selling anything. Marcie thank you my dear and to be clear friends - I’m not selling anything with today’s post either.

I used a few pieces from Gap Home for Walmart in my son’s bedroom refresh and most of you know I keep it real in the Chalet and with clients - the reality is - if you can find an item to meet your needs from At Home, Target or Walmart - why wouldn’t we purchase it?

The Ottoman and Pillow are from Gap Home

I’m so impressed with these items from the Gap Home for Walmart. The ottoman supports weight and is very sturdy - it has a zipper so the cover is removable. The pillow’s poly insert is thinly distributed and much less dense than most poly inserts so it resembles feathers in appearance and the texture reacts nicely like an actual feather filled pillow. It has a zipper so this cover is also removable.

I have to share I’m a Gap fan. I worked for Gap as a window dresser and in store management. I still have pieces in my wardrobe I pull out and wear from years ago because Gap always meant quality. That is what pushed me to add this post to my editorial calendar…how could I not talk about these pieces.

Frayed Denim Decorative Square Throw Pillow

The color stories in the collection center on Beige/Blue/ Grey/Yellow with a smattering of patterns. It feels basic in the very best way - what’s more Americana than denim?

Modern Color Block Two Door Accent Cabinet

Gap Home is a multi-year partnership with Walmart the largest retailer in the United States. Gap Home has over 400 items including products produced with organic cotton and recycled materials. The collection encompasses bath, bedding, curtains, home decor, rugs and tabletop.

Shibori Tie Dye Organic Cotton Light Filtering Window Curtain

T-Shirt Soft Jersey Reversible Organic Cotton Blend Comforter Set

Blue 16-Piece Blue & White Decal Fine Ceramic Dinnerware Set

Friends I’ve shared just a quick look at the collection - I will admit I find myself tempted to buy a few more things - but, since my husband reads my blog I will resist that urge…. lol!

Enjoy your day, be well and see you over on Instagram.