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Tag Archive: summer

art inspiration in the fibonacci sequence

Written on April 9, 2013 by Roxanne D

I’m always looking for alternative inspiration for adorning the walls of my home. My art inspiration of late is the Fibonacci sequence.

Math sequences make plain sense and with such stunning visual examples, how could you not want to learn more about the Fibonacci sequence?

RD040913 Fibonacci Green art inspiration in the fibonacci sequence

I’ve been searching (not desperately yet) for an origami pattern depicting the Fibonacci sequence. Like this. I’m headed to the library next time I have a chance, but if you know where to find that, please let me know!

RD040913 Fibonacci Stairs art inspiration in the fibonacci sequence

Fascinated by the designs in nature, I believe over the centuries we keep trying to recreate that which is inherently designed perfectly. Perhaps the views and vignettes we create will never be perfect in comparison, but I think we create beauty none-the-less when we strive for it.

RD040913 Fibonacci Helianthus whorl art inspiration in the fibonacci sequence

It’s the perfect time of year to be inspired by nature, to start projects that bring the outdoors in and soak it all up. I try to spend as much time outside every nice day we get so by the time the next winter rolls around, I’ve got plenty of artful reminders of sunny, warm days.

I believe I shall take my camera for an outdoors photo session as soon as the sun comes back out.

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Art, Design Tags: Art, Inspiration, summer

S’mores, DIY Sandals and Road Trip Survival…Happy Weekend!

Written on August 18, 2012 by SarahV

Image via Kirsty

Road Trip time! The Prairie Hive gang is hitting the highway this weekend with a road trip to be featured in our Fall Issue (check back on September 10 to see our destination!). With summer drawing to a close, my guess is there are lots of families out there doing the same before school starts. Whatever your destination is this weekend (even a hammock in the back yard) – here are some great finds from this week!

Speaking of road trips…a great guide for families with kids from the Land of Nod blog!

While we’ve still got a few weeks of sandal weather left…check out these DIY fabric sandals.

If you’re craving a s’more…here’s an upgrade, made indoors. (Although it’s actually cool enough now for a fire!)

Looking for a spot for my Okie Chalkboard…

I’m a huge Roald Dahl fan…who knew he had a cookbook? Sounds very charming, and a good read as well.

Enjoy the wonderful weather and have a great weekend, everyone!

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Weekend Round-Up Tags: DIY, kids, okie, Recipe, summer, weekend roundup

Summer is Sizzling

Written on August 8, 2012 by DawnT

I think it’s happened. The heat has finally gotten to me. I’ve faced it all summer long, and I’ve finally cracked. I’m tired of being sequestered to the indoors and of sweating the moment I step outside. I need some relief. I’m ready for Fall!

Do you remember the pool party we had at the awesome Cool House we featured in our Prairie Hive Magazine, Issue 2? I’ve been longing for a quick dip in a pool such as theirs. It was a refreshing retreat from the stifling air.

Here are some more snazzy-looking pools that I wouldn’t hesitate to make a splash in. But then, with these temperatures, it doesn’t take a lot.

DET Swim01 Summer is Sizzling image via Home Tips

DET Swim02 Summer is Sizzling image via EcoLagoons

DET Swim03 Summer is Sizzling

image via Lucas Lagooons

DET Swim05 Summer is Sizzling

image via Crystal Cove Pools

DET Swim06 Summer is Sizzling

image via Zoom Decor

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Design, Home, Inspiration Tags: home, Inspiration, summer

Summer Pattern Mix: Outfit to Room

Written on July 31, 2012 by SarahV

SVOTRSummeroutfit Summer Pattern Mix: Outfit to Room

Image via Atlantic-Pacific

I absolutely loved this summery outfit, and the idea of taking great basics like a leather bag and striped tee to ground a more seasonal piece like the skirt. The basics are preppy, but the little bit of fun added by the floral and the turquoise make it not-too-serious. The idea of doing the same thing in a room, with an easily changed rug and accessories, makes perfect sense to lighten up a more traditional feeling space for summer!

OTRSummer Summer Pattern Mix: Outfit to Room

Jonathan Adler Ventana Chandelier, All Modern; Block Print Stripe Wallpaper, Farrow & Ball; Modern Botanical Print, Live At Home on Etsy; Arteriors Talia Aquamarine Wavy Table Lamp, Zinc Door; Brass Urchin Accent, Furbish; Gold Athena Tray, Jayson Home; Sunflower Lines Pillow, Sky Iris; Palmetto Leather Sofa, Layla Grayce; Dershyl Ivory Floral Rug, Overstock.com; Diego Room Divider, Crate and Barrel.

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Design, Fashion, Inspiration, Outfit to Room Tags: design, fashion, Inspiration, outfit to room, summer

LL Bean, Dogs with Ice Cream and more…Happy Weekend!

Written on July 14, 2012 by SarahV

Image via THUSS+FARRELL Photography

Hot enough for ya? I joke, I joke…but seriously, when will this end? The best part about this weather is the good excuse to eat all the cold, summery treats…and maybe indulge a bit in some bad summer TV. Or is that just me? What’s your favorite summertime vice?

While you’re thinking…a few of my faves from this week:

As someone who has overshared a bit online, I loved this article on Apartment Therapy pondering exactly why we want to put our homes and lives online…and why we care about other people’s.

How cute are these house numbers?

Have you checked out LL Bean lately? Me either. But when this outfit popped up on Pinterest this week…I was intrigued. Man, it is WAY cuter than I ever thought – what a great new (old) source!

I’m loving this gold lamp from Land of Nod. I’m going to have to start shopping in the kids’ section more often!

And finally, Dogs with Ice Cream. Enough said.

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Design, Weekend Round-Up Tags: summer, weekend roundup

Glamping: You Know You Want To.

Written on July 11, 2012 by SarahV

SVpawsup2 Glamping: You Know You Want To.

Image via The Resort at Paws Up Montana

I’ve never really been the outdoorsy type. While the idea of camping always appeals to me – guitars around the campfire, cuddling under the stars, waking up with the sun and all – the reality is a little more than I’m ready for (sore back, bug bites, dirty feet, and bad coffee). The answer: glamping (Glam Camping, natch).

There are a couple of ways to look at glamping – first, the new crop of resorts that offer upscale ways to get close to nature…from yurts to teepees to airstreams, this is the ideal way to go. Let someone else take care of the details, in true glamping style. Check out Glamping Hub for a huge listing of sites.

SVmarfa Glamping: You Know You Want To.

Image via El Cosmico, Marfa, TX

(PS – I’m SUPER jealous that my sister is visiting Marfa next month!)

Image via The Resort at Paws Up

Image via Big Sur Getaway

Another way to look at glamping is the DIY route…just dress up your standard camping trip a bit. And really…why wouldn’t you want to make things a little more comfortable? A few extras like portable beds, outdoor rugs and folding chairs go a long way and don’t take up much room. While a few of my picks are just a wee bit over the top, do it up to your own taste!

SVglamping Glamping: You Know You Want To.

Pure Fiber Organic Bathrobe, Amazon.com; Basic Inflatable EZ Bed, Grandin Road; Butterfly Chair, Ballard Designs; Flameless Candles, Target; Sunbrella Valencia Stripe Outdoor Pillow, Crate and Barrel; Recycled Morocco Outdoor Rug, VivaTerra; Kite Kilim Floor Pouf, West Elm; Snow Peak Folding Table, REI; Hibachi Grill, Dwell Studio; Insulated Two Bottle Cocktail Case, Amazon.com; Acrylic Wine Glasses, Bed Bath and Beyond; Deluxe Camper’s Kitchen, Cabela’s, Outdoor Leather Cooler, FarFetch.com.

Image via Poppytalk

And finally….somewhere in between. Did you know you can rent these fabulous teardrop campers and kitchens? Check out the info at Vacations-in-a-Can, and in Sunset Magazine (with even more great glamping gear!).

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Inspiration, Trends Tags: design, Inspiration, Relaxation, summer, things to do

Margarita Mix-In Recipes from Issue Six

Written on June 11, 2012 by SarahV

I hope you’ve had a chance to check out the new issue of Prairie Hive Magazine! We were inspired by the architecture of the home as well as the homeowner’s eclectic collection of Mexican art to throw a laid back summer fiesta, complete with a margarita bar! The margarita base is served in a pitcher, then each guest can customize their drink with one of three add in flavors…tart grapefruit, spicy jalepeno, and juicy watermelon!

We hope you enjoy the recipes, let us know which one is your favorite!

SVabovemarg Margarita Mix In Recipes from Issue Six

Margarita Base

12 oz tequila

10 oz orange liqueur

10 oz fresh squeezed lime juice

(makes approx. 8 drinks when combined with mixers)

SVmargddins Margarita Mix In Recipes from Issue Six

Jalapeno Margaritas

Rim glass with mixture of equal parts chili powder and salt. Add 2-3oz (to taste) Jalapeno Syrup* to 4 oz. Margarita Base, garnish with limes.

Jalapeno Syrup

1/3 c apple cider vinegar

1/3 c sugar

5 medium jalapenos, stems removed and cut into 1/4″ slices

Put the vinegar, sugar and jalapenos into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil for five minutes. Allow to steep for 20 minutes, then strain and chill the syrup.

Grapefruit Margaritas

Rim glass with sugar. Add 3 oz. Ruby Red Grapefruit juice to 4 oz. Margarita Base, garnish with grapefruit slices.

Watermelon Margaritas

Rim glass with salt. Add 3 oz. Watermelon Juice* to 4 oz. Margarita Base, garnish with lime.

*To make Watermelon Juice, cut watermelon into chunks and place in food processor or blender to puree, then strain.

To complete the menu, see the full party (with recipes) in the Prairie Hive Magazine’s Summer Issue!

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Entertaining, Prairie Hive Mag, Recipes Tags: Entertaining, Party, Recipe, summer

Summer Brights and a Balloon Desk – Happy Weekend!

Written on June 9, 2012 by SarahV

In case you missed our sneak peek emails (sign up to subscribe!), here’s a shot from the color saturated outdoor party featured in Issue Six, hitting the virtual newsstands on Monday! We will be editing, proofing and all around scrambling to get it finished up this weekend – what is it with designers and doing things at the last minute? Check out our Facebook page for a few preview images, and join us back here on Monday for the whole shebang!

This week, I was attracted to anything colorful…so here a few summer brights:

If these neon chairs don’t say pool party, I don’t know what does…

One of the coolest reception desks ever, featuring Jenga blocks and balloons. Yep.

The cutest little keepsake boxes.

Pantone’s Fall 2012 colors – stickered.

I’m a bit of a Scrabble fiend, so I flipped over these game tile pillows. I’m thinking a DIY version is in order…let’s see – “V” is 4 points?

Have a great weekend, see you back here on Monday for our Summer Issue!

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Weekend Round-Up Tags: summer, weekend roundup

Drive-In Movie Night

Written on June 8, 2012 by Roxanne D

RD060812BurningAdmiralTwin Drive In Movie Night

Images from Cinema Treasures (you should check out all the photos here)

If you’re a Tulsan, you probably remember the day the Admiral Twin burned down. It was really wild and saddening to see this over 5-stories tall wooden movie screen burn to the ground. It stood tall just off I-244 my whole life and I have many fond memories of my parents taking us to view a double header. I remember the different cars we had over the years and I think my favorite way of taking in a movie at the drive-in is in the back of a pickup truck.

With it’s grand re-opening scheduled on June 15th, I’m hoping to enjoy a movie soon at the brand new Admiral Twin so I thought I’d share my version of necessities for a successful night.

RD060812necessities Drive In Movie Night

1. Flared Caraz Dress from Anthropologie: I think you’ve got to get into the spirit of the Drive-In. Once a place where you could see and be seen, you’ll want to feel cute and comfortable. A loose, soft dress is perfect for staying cool on a warm summer’s night. Just wear some slip-on flats that you can easily shed to relax in the truck.

2. Denise Schmidt Works Quilt: Jersey Stripes in Chartreuse: Grab your favorite quilt or two to create some comfy layers. You never know when a cool breeze might pick up, or you can cover up the kids when they fall asleep early (we never made it through the second movie).

3. Pavilion Pillow in Green from Pier One: I like to borrow the outdoor pillows so I don’t have to worry so much about them. This is where watching from the bed of the pickup gets great. Build up a soft landing place at the front of the bed against the cab and around the corners for maximum comfort.

4. Sunbrella Pacific Blue Loveseat Cushion from Lowe’s: Be sure to take any bench cushions. These will insure an enjoyable sit so you can make the duration of the movies without a second thought.

5. Bug Be Gone Spray from The Peaceful Housewife: This is the best kind of bug spray, it smells great and you don’t have to worry too much if you’ve gotten it on your hands.

6. Wet Ones from Walgreens: Be sure to include some sort of wipes to make cleaning sticky hands and spills easy. Sometimes its a trek to the nearest concession and I like to keep it as easy as possible.

7. Magellan Outdoors Camping Mat: Raid the camping gear for your first layer of defense against the truck bed. These little air mattresses are quick and easy to get in place and put away at the end of the evening.

8. Organic Crystallized Ginger from Abe’s Market: Last but not least, a little ginger would be the perfect late night nibble; especially after enjoying the fruits of the movie concession.

RD060812BeforeAdmiralTwin Drive In Movie Night

Image from Pinball Rebel

Here’s a reminder of what our much loved landmark was looking like before the fire. I’m excited to attend the movies soon with the new facilities. It’s been fun watching the steel structure rise and I’m thankful Tulsa still has this treasure. Hope to see you there soon!

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Fashion, Tulsa Tags: Entertaining, summer, things to do, tulsa

Basil & Clouds (or Friday Dreaming)

Written on June 1, 2012 by Roxanne D

I have been creating, creating, creating, trying to get caught up on on backlogged work and also trying to get a few peeks out the windows at the gorgeous weather we are having. I know I must take full advantage because we’ve had a few bouts of 90 degree weather already so I know that full fledged, humid and hot days are not far off. The breeze almost feels like mountain air and sounds like the ocean waves. It is beautiful.

So while I’ve been unable to sit at a computer, I’ll share with you some of the thoughts that come and go in the background of my thoughts while I plug away at work.

I really love the idea of cloud photographs blown up for artwork, so I sent Jeff outside today to get some shots that we might be able to use soon. Having read this post from Kirsten Krason at 6th Street Design School, I guess it just got stuck in my head. I bet Alayna and Dawn have some photos that would be great candidates!

Image from Amber Interiors via 6th Street Design School

I just realized I have a light just like that, but in green. Hmm, purchased years ago at a flea market, I should track it down. How exciting!

The other thing I just can’t get out of my head are X-Based stools or benches, specifically tufted in a bright fabric with brassy legs. Doesn’t help that on my one quick errand out of the office today I saw a great candidate for a DIY version on the sidewalk in front of an antique store! Unfortunately that project will have to wait for another day. I like this one with the “X” detail repeated in the top stitching.

Claudette Bench from Jan Showers via Little Green Notebook (check that post for lots more benches)

One more thing that just won’t leave my mind: basil. I love summer and basil, the smell, the taste, pesto… So I just planted two more plants. We usually have 6 or 7, but this year we’re only up to 3. Might have to remedy that.

I’ve been known to eat it on grilled cheese (with sharp cheddar and goat cheese), hot dogs, thrown in a salad, stacked in lasagna, mixed with avacado on crackers and pesto of course. I know those are not conventional, but it just tastes so good but why oh why haven’t I thought to make basil hummus? I make all other kinds of hummus, you’d think it would have occurred to just throw some basil in too!

Basil Hummus Recipe from Heather Eats Almond Butter

So you can bet that after I make it through Vintage Market Days (only three weeks from today, ack!) and a few other large items on my calendar this month, I will be trying some basil hummus, planning my new DIY X Bench project and hopefully processing some cloud photos into large wall art. I might hold off on that last one until after my next Durango trip, I might be able to catch some wonderful cloud action in the mountains.

Enjoy the weekend!

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Home, Roxanne D. Tags: DIY, food, summer