A few weeks ago, my mom and I decided to meet at Scottsdale Farm for a bit of shopping and plant hunting. (click here to see our vlog from the day!). As I looked at my wardrobe that morning, it suddenly hit me like a ton of bricks – I didn’t have…
Valentina’s Epic Brownie Trifle Recipe
Today, I’m so excited to share with you an incredible dessert recipe that’s close to my heart – my very own Brownie Trifle. Now, let me take you on a nostalgic trip back to the 80s, a time when the grocery store shelves weren’t lined with convenient pudding cups. Picture this: you…
Designing the Elegant Cottage
Is it just me, or does this time of the year make you long for a warm, cozy retreat too? There’s something about the crisp air and shorter days that has me daydreaming about a charming cottage nestled amidst a picturesque garden. It’s like the epitome of perfection, isn’t it? I’ve always…
The Swedish Pear Cake Recipe We Can’t Resist!
Get ready to experience a cake that’s like a warm, soul-soothing hug! The Swedish Pear Cake has secured its spot as one of our all-time favorites, and there’s no mystery why. The key ingredients, apart from the cakey goodness, are ripe pears and a hint of cinnamon (although cardamom works its magic…
Making Home The Epicenter of Life
Moving abroad taught me a great deal about the power of home. I’ve visited in so many forms of homes! Small huts, tiny apartments, mansions, and everything in between! Every time I was invited in to someone’s home I couldn’t believe the opportunity! To see how a cosmopolitan family lives in Barcelona…
My Morning Ritual : Beauty Essentials to Start the Day
Here’s a little secret I’ll share with you – even though I consider myself a night owl, there’s something truly special about mornings. Most days, I find myself lighting candles, humming a favorite tune, and savoring those quiet moments around the house. These moments set the mood and mindset for my day,…
French Country Style Hacks
If you’ve seen the latest video on our home channel then you know that I have become completely OBSESSED with French Country style all over again! Trust me when I say that the night before I filmed that video I couldn’t even sleep! That’s how excited I was about sharing what I…
My FAVORITE staying warm TACTIC
With temps plummeting for so many of us, staying warm has never been so top of mind! Personally, my favorite way to warm the heart, the mind, and the soul is COFFEE! Is there anything more comforting and inviting than hearing those seven magical words, “I am going to make a coffee!”?…
Unlocking the Secrets of Time: How One Simple Change Transformed My Life!
I did something kind of out of the ordinary this week… well, at least it was out of the ordinary for me. I opted to read books before bedtime rather than watch tv. It was a little thing, and one I went into begrudgingly, but this momentous moment created two more… momentous…
Unlock the Secret to Home Bliss: How Scents Can Transform Your Space and Memories!
Have you ever walked into a room and instantly felt a wave of nostalgia or calm wash over you? It’s not just the decor; it’s the power of scent at play. Research has shown that scents are deeply intertwined with our emotions, learning, and memory centers in the brain. They have the…
Six Ways to turn A boring Backyard into a Winter Oasis
Are you one of those people who feel a bit blue when the twinkle lights, wreathes, and greenery of the Christmas season come down? You’re not alone! The transition from the magical outdoors during the holidays to the plain everyday look afterward can leave you missing that enchanting feeling. I struggle with…
Books from my Library that are obsession worthy!
If you were to look up “bibliophile” in the dictionary, you’d find a definition that goes something like this: “a person who collects or has a great love of books.” And, for a little extra emphasis, it would likely say, “SEE VALENTINA!” I’ve been a book lover for as long as I…
