Summer’s gone. But not our joy in sitting out in the backyard — especially with the magic of a little dancing fire light.

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After much pondering, several pets and lots of advice from experts, I offer these solutions to the Four Universal Pet-Owning Truths.

Shortly after I shared a couple variations on Linda Summerfield Crispell’s summer-fireplace themes (see “Fireless fireplaces” post of July 7, 2009), I stumbled on this shimmery version thanks to blogger Tate Gunnerson, who writes the blog “Strange Closets.”
Tate found this silvery March of the Candlesticks in the pad of limey green-lovin’ Mikey and Brian, owners [...]

When I wrote about Linda Summerfield Crispell’s home in Highland Park, I mentioned that she hates to see an empty fireplace in the summer. Her solution: A colorful collection of salvaged croquet and billiard balls.
We love it! You did too. But you also had some other suggestions for cool looks for this hot spot.

My friend [...]

Parting, that is. But just for a little bit. I’m heading to the Land of 10,000 Lakes (aka Minnesota — did you know that it is the northernmost of the continental United States?) and, gasp, won’t be able to write to you!
So until Tuesday, I’ll leave you with this very cool find from Etsy.com.
Seems fitting [...]

 Nicole Steinberg Balch makes me want to have a baby again. She just did. And she’s created a serene and sophisticated nursery for her 6-week-old Eleanor.

I got a good glimpse at it on her blog Making It Lovely and you can too. Don’t these pix make you want to take a peek?
Nicole is a Web [...]