“Each day comes bearing its own gifts. Untie the ribbons.”

The title of this post is one of my favorite quotes, by Ruth Ann Schabacker.

Here at the Lonesome Road, I'm just relaxing after wrapping an order for shipment. In the past few months, I've really gotten into the "experience" aspect of my business. My primary aim is to create my art, jewelry and gifts with only the highest standards. But there's always that "something extra" that I really enjoy doing for my buyers. Even the smallest unexpected delights make everything just a bit more fun, more enchanting, more special; like a surprise birthday party with extra frosting roses on the cake. Some unexpected tender loving care makes our days more joyful, and everyone is worthy of extra joy. Receiving means giving back as well...

THE guide to ultra living!

"PAD"
The Guide to Ultra-Living
by Matt Maranian

"Got the tastes of Barbarella with a budget considerably more earthbound?"
So begins the first chapter of this mutha of all decorating idea books.
I purchased this book a few years ago, while living at my last apartment. Okay, I'm very adventurous when it comes to decorating; I'm not afraid of bold colors and things that make others go "hmmmm." The living room of my last apartment was decorated in bright reds, Halloween/Day of the Dead decor (which is now firmly ensconced in my current workspace/computer room), plus some Feng Shui touches.
"Pad" was truly the inspiration to let my freak flag fly when it came to decorating my personal space, and there's a chance that it could inspire you too. Who can't resist an "Opium Den Flame Pit" or a "Barbarella TV Cabinet?" (Can you tell that I adore the movie "Barbarella?")
Within the pages of "Pad" you will find instructions for an upcycled surfboard coffee table, the ever-popular "Porno Chic Love Lamp," and a handy "Cousin It Tissue Cozy."
No book about the joys of domesticity would be complete without an "After Dark" section; this one has a whole section of classic cocktails but more importantly, hangover cures and garish garnishes including the "Flaming Fruit Flip" and the "Crystal Craze GummiSaver Kabob." Rounding out the section is a collection of "Freaked-Out Punch Mixes" including "Nuclear Pond Scum." Want to impress your friends? You must attempt the "Pyromaniac Centerpieces With the Magic of Sterno." No party is complete without tunes; "Pad" has a whole set of recommendations plus pages of party themes like "The Short Attention Span Video Festival," "Living Room Weenie Roast," and "The No-Talent Show."
Consult the sage pages of "Pad" if you're bored with off-white walls, your dusty rose floral sectional and wine from a box. There's a whole world of rad decorating and fun out there and "Pad" is a great place to start learning.

RATING: TWO THUMBS UP PLUS A MIDDLE FINGER TO THE ORDINARY!