A Splenderous 2012

Wishing You and Yours All the Best in 2012

Lets Make this Year Count Like none Other

Really Make a Difference

Pinterest

 Ride Like the Wind! Feel the Breeze!

Live Life to its Fullest

Shine Your Light Upon the World

Polohouse

Pay it Forward, Brighten Someones Life,

Smile, Smile Smile

Thanks to all of  you for the Joy, Encouragement and Friendship You have brought to me!

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

Joyeux Noel

Blessings to you and yours this Holiday!

Wishing you the magic of the Season

The Golden Glow of Love in your Heart

The Mystery of Faith & Belief 

Love and Hugs to All!!

Karena

Art by Karena

On the 12th Day of Holidays..... Fine Art from Mary Maxam

Artist Mary Maxam is offering an original work of her fine art for the 12th Day Of Holiday Giveaways!

Red Clouds

 This is a 6" x 6" original work of art of oil on Canvas

This little treasure will be perfect in any spot of your home.

Mary is an artist and painter based in Idaho.  Accepted into the prestigious Oil Painters of America exhibition in '09, she finds her inspiration in the beautiful scenery, of the Northwest. Mary works  in oil, acrylic and watercolor mediums for her still life and landscape paintings and is published in both book and magazine articles -"Watercolor Magic," "Gray's Sporting Journal" and "Paint Mixing, the 12-Hue Method." Her website is Mary Maxam Fine Art

Summer Sky

 

 I love her description of this 9 x 9 painting below titled "Breakthrough"

This is a sky that is part from a reference and part from memory. You know how it is...you're traveling, you see the storm in the distance, and now and again there seems to be a breakthrough of light and rain that just couldn't be held back. Then it always makes me think about that one place, what's happening right underneath that spill of light and rain?This is a sky that is part from a reference and part from memory. You know how it is...you're traveling, you see the storm in the distance, and now and again there seems to be a breakthrough of light and rain that just couldn't be held back. Then it always makes me think about that one place, what's happening right underneath that spill of light and rain?

 

Breakthrough

Under Cover

 Mary's Blog, Mary Maxam Paintings is wonderful. She does painting demonstrations, shows videos of works in progress and displays her daily paintings! 

Her vivid color palette and brushstrokes evoke the passion she has for art and painting

This Giveaway of her Original Painting "Red Clouds" valued at $150.00 is open Internationally!

1) To enter visit her website Mary Maxam Fine Art or her blog,

Mary Maxam- Paintings , come and tell us what work of her fabulous art you like the best!

2) As an Extra Entry Link or Post  about this Fine Art Giveaway on your site! get in the Spirit and Spread the Love!

The Winner will be Chosen on Thursday December 22 at Midnight EST This will not arrive for Christmas, however you can look forward to it arriving for The New Year 2012

 

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

 Remember to enter all of the other Open Giveaways!!

The support for our Blog Friends and Sponsors has been tremendous .... Come back tomorrow for a huge surprise!!

On the 9th Day of Holiday Giveaways......from Decor to Adore

Decor to Adore

Our friend, fellow Blogger, entrepreneur, and shop owner, Laura Ingalls Gunn, has offered a very generous surprise to one fortunate winner!

A $25 Gift Certificate to her Etsy shop plus several special gifts!

Velvet Bookmarks

Laura is always busy being very creative. I have asked her if her fingers are ever NOT moving!

Assorted Gifts such as Lavender Sachet and More....

I love these patterned pieces in her shop!

Antique Covered Soup Tureen

Antique Luncheon Plates from Austria

Vintage Deer Ornament or Gift Embellishment

Laura always has an open and giving heart! Her Faith and family come first to her.

 She and our friend Andrea are partners in Metis Linens!

This wonderful Holiday Giveaway is open to USA residents. International entries accepted if the winner agrees to pay shipping fee.

1) To enter this Giveaway, Please visit Laura's Blog Decor to Adore, visit her Etsy Shop and tell us what you love!

2) For an Extra Entry, Post or link to this Giveaway on Your own site!!

The winner will be chosen on Monday December 19th at 12 EST

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

Please enter all of the open Giveaways by scrolling down or clicking on the Buttons in the right hand Column!

Thank you for supporting all of our generous sponsors and blog friends!

A French Delight on the 5th Day of Holiday Giveaways and a Winner!

The 5th Holiday Giveaway is from a well known and loved blogger and author, Vicki Archer of French Essence!

Vicki has an amazing blog about all things French. Even a daily click of a special image that is meaningful to her and to her faithful readers all over the world!!

As an author Vicki has written two books, the 1st is My French Life

My French Life

A beautifully photographed romantic book about French style and culture—and making a new home in Provence

The synopsis on Amazon reads:

In 1999, Vicki Archer, with her husband and three children, made a lifelong dream a reality when she bought a seventeenth-century property in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. She spent three years lovingly restoring the farmhouse, bringing back to life the abandoned apple and pear orchards, and planting an olive grove of more than two thousand trees. In My French Life, Vicki shares an insider’s view of life in France— from its landscapes, delicious food, and scents to its charming people. And she offers an intimate portrait of what it’s like to adopt a new home on the other side of the globe. It’s a personal tale of taking risks, facing challenges, and the joyous experience of falling in love with all things French.

With lavish four-color photography that captures the essence of French style, My French Life is a book to cherish. It is the perfect gift for the holidays.

In her Second Book French Essence

She  returns with a breathtaking, full-color tour of the culture and style unique to Provence. 

French Essence

 
Again here Amazon describes that:

Ten years ago, Vicki Archer and her husband began restoring a seventeenth-century olive farm in Saint-Remy-de-Provence, resurrecting the ancient orchards and renovating the farmhouse. The story of Archer's dream come true is an enchanting one, captured on the pages of her debut book, My French Life. Now fully at home in this magnificent corner of the world, she brings us a guide for celebrating and re-creating Provençal ambiance. 

A lover of architecture, art, furniture, and décor, Archer knows that the best interiors are inspired by the heart as much as the mind. French Essence is designed to spark both, with gorgeous photographs of lush gardens, timeless interiors, hauntingly beautiful village lanes, and inspired aesthetic details. Sumptuous cuisine and charming shops are also essential features of the tour, giging all readers the chance to vicariously savor the sensuous pleasures and effortless chic of this region. Reminiscent of Frances Mayes's lavishly illustrated books, In Tuscany and Bringing Tuscany Home, Archer's captivating words and scenes open the doors of inspiration for all who cherish the French way of life.

Vicki says....

On French style...

I think I wrote it best when I said,

 ‘I like to think that in France there is a sixth sense - a French sense... French sense is simple - it is chemistry, a magical mix of the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and textures... As a nation France has chemistry, as individuals the French have spark.’

Thanks to Vicki's generosity, she has given  Two sets of Both of her books Valued at $80 a set! A  gift to Two,yes, Two fortunate winners of this Holiday Giveaway! 

The entrants must reside in the United States.

To enter simply Visit Vicki's Blog French Essence 

1) Go to her Shop French Essence Image in the right column

then come back and tell us what you love most in her shop.

I know I would love several of these mercury Glass Votives!!

2) Unless you want an extra entry for posting on your own site!

Thats right spread the love for the holidays!!

This Giveaway will end on December 17th  at Midnight EST

Now for the winner of the 30 inch  Princeton Pine Wreath strung with 100 lights from The Christmas Tree Market !

It is Amy of Maison Decor!

Congratulations Amy!! Do visit her wonderful blog!

Thank you to all for helping to make this such a fun event! We are  highlighting so many wonderful sponsors and bloggers! 

You still have lots of the giveaways to enter in the right column!

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

On The 4th Day of Holiday Giveaways!!

Precious Jewels!

Many of you are very familiar with a Jewelry artist who is so revered and excellent at her craft; well lets just say she is extremely busy, always!!  Her works of art take my breath away. Her Jewels shimmer and shine and make you feel like a million dollars to wear them!

Maddie Earrings

Karen  has so many fabulous designs, you must visit her simply for the Eye Candy! ( of course you will have quite a hard time leaving without making a purchase for your collection.) I first heard about her through my friend Joni at Cote de Texas. Joni has one of her fabulous necklaces. I mean Really Fabulous!

 Black and white with Gold Quatrefoil Design! Is there anything you could NOT wear these earrings with for the Holidays?!

So Visit Karen Sugarman Designs and also Karen's Blog

Classic oh, so Classic!

Maddie Earrings - Brushed Gold Vermeil Quatrefoils with Black Onyx Teardrops and Mystic Corundum Frills valued at $165.00!!

This Gift of Karen Sugarman Earrings is available to friends and followers worldwide!

1) Simply visit Karen Sugarman Designs and come tell us what piece of jewelry you would put on your Holiday List!

That's It!!

2) Unless you want an extra chance, then simply link this amazing Giveaway on your own Site!! Share the love!

Winner will be chosen on Friday December 16th!

 Remember that most of the Holiday Giveaways will remain OPEN until at least mid month. Take some time in the evening when things have quieted down and go through to enter ALL that you want. Also the Giveaway items will all make fantastic gifts for others even if you don't keep them  for yourself.

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

On the Third Day of Holiday Giveaways.....

Traditions, there are so many and each family has their very own special memories of traditions that occur year after year. Are the Holidays ever the same without these beloved traditions?

Decorating the house, both inside and out, going to the Holiday plays and ballets such as The Nutcracker Suite, Baking treats to eat and share!

The Second Day of Holiday Giveaways  is a very special 30" Princeton Pine Wreath from The Christmas Tree Market!

With the Princeton Pine Christmas Wreath you can spread the holiday spirit to every corner of your home. The wreath is generously outfitted with vibrant green needles accented with pine cones and holly berries.The wreath comes in three different sizes to accommodate many different spaces. It is strung with 100 clear lights for in or outdoors!  You can add a special ribbons or elements  to personalize to your own decor.

There is a garland that matches( to be ordered separately) Enjoy the serene beauty of this essential holiday accessory this Christmas Season.

This Giveaway is open to the 50 United States, Puerto Rico and  Canada!

To enter for an opportunity to win this gorgeous 30 "wreath valued at $130....

1) Visit The Christmas Tree Market and take a look around their site. Come back and let me know where you would likely hang the Princeton Pine Wreath at your home. (you can never have too many)

2)Extra Entry:  Be a Follower of Art by Karena

3) For another extra chance to win, post this giveaway event on your site in your right hand column!  Share the Love!

Please enter separately as I use Random,org. to choose the winner.

The winner will be chosen on Monday Evening Midnight Dec 5th. It will be shipped immediately for you to enjoy through the Holiday Season!

Love and Hugs!

Karena

Art by Karena

The next several Gifts will be for International Followers!! So stay tuned all!


A special Thank You to Linda of Coastal Charm I won a gorgeous necklace from Shanti which includes a Starfish! It will be a favorite! 

Remember you can enter all of the Open Giveaways in my right hand Column!!  Yay!!

The Twelve Days of Holiday Giveaway Events # 1 from Dovecote Decor!

I am so excited to kick off the Twelve Days of Holiday Giveaways Event with a very special Gift from Liz at Dovecote Decor.
Liz lives in the historic Winston-Salem, NC area adjacent to the renowned High Point city and market.

She is generous beyond and someone will be the recipient of  her largess! Liz saw this chest at High Point Market and of everything there, it was her favorite!. We had discussed her involvement and she felt this would be perfect! I had no idea she was going to come up with something so very unique!

The Chest is Solid Walnut with Oak and Brass

28"w x 22"d x 30"h
Faux Tortoise Fine Cast Brass

$1,200.00 retail value. 

I can see this chest as a nightstand in the master bedroom. As an occasional  piece for a family room, fabulous! It would turn a small entry wall into a focal point!

To enter for a chance to win this gorgeous piece of furniture: This Giveaway is for USA Residents only 

1)  Go to the Dovecote Decor Blog and become a Follower then click through to see her amazing shop Dovecote Decor return to let me know what you love ( a most stunning assortment of furnishings) there or comment on where you might use this fabulous chest.

 2) For additional entries Be a Follower of Art by Karena

3)Like Dovecote Decor on Facebook

4) Post this Event on your own Site in your sidebar; Spread the Love for the Holidays!


Please enter each separately as I use Random .org to choose the Winner!!


The winner will be chosen on December 15th! Some of our Gifts will have short turnarounds (the next for example) so come back often to check on what is new and you can enter any of the Open Events any time during the Holiday Event. I will keep them all in my side column to click to go to the post to enter!


I know this will be fun for everyone! 

There will be many International Giveaways coming up!


Happy Holidays!


Karena


Art by Karena

Holiday Table with Isabella & Reminder of our Twelve Days of Holidays Giveaway Event!

My beautiful granddaughter Isabella has been staying with me this past week and helping me with so much!

She has decided to be an Interior Designer and loves to come over and change the decor around in my condominium!

We decided to take the Thanksgiving decor down and do a Christmas Holiday Table. So much of my holiday decorations are packed away right now. Look how she made what we had available ( mainly) in the Living Room Armoir work for the tablescape. She also plans to put out more crystal stemware, etc.

How fortunate can I be to have a family and friends that care about me so much!

Come back later this week for the start of our Twelve Days of Holiday Giveaway Event!

Thank you to Sherry of No Minimalist Here for the certificate to Novica.  Novica is a wonderful Free Trade Organization. I have ordered a wonderful woven Alpaca Scarf for my Father.

Also I could not believe it when Tamara of Get It Girl Style informed my that I am the recipient of a $50 gift card to Home Goods! Thank you Tamara! Be sure to visit her wonderful blog!

You can see how I have much to pay forward so you will all be thrilled with this Holiday Seasons Bounty!

Karena

Art by Karena

A Story of Love and Thanksgiving

Recently I was witness to a few moments of love and caring so heartwarming it has left an indelible impression on me.

 Many of you know that I had been in rehab facility after  having a hip replacement surgery. I am now at home receiving excellent in- home health care. Every day in every way I am getting better and better.

I met patients of all ages in all stages of recovery.

One day while waiting for a friend to arrive, I sat in the common area. An elderly woman was sitting across from me with her daughter. This was a woman who was having a very difficult time while in rehab and had taken several bad falls while trying to recover.

I watched while the patients daughter gently put curlers in her mothers hair. She then softly took her hands in hers and buffed her Mother's fingernails. What touched me so was the look in both the Mother and Daughters eyes.

The endearing gratitude in the elderly ladies eyes and the daughters eyes shining with the everlasting love for her Mother.

   

I thought about how a touch, a glance, holding a hand; something that may seem so very simple can give one a reason to go on, a purpose, something for which to be forever grateful . 

We all have the power to make a difference.

Happy Thanksgiving to You and your Loved Ones.

Love and Hugs

Karena

Art by Karena

Special Announcement and a Winner

Very Soon I will be able to Dance again!

This week I am having a Hip Replacement Surgery and will be out of commission this next month and enjoying (ha) Rehab!

Thanks to all of my Friends and Followers who have already sent me well wishes for a speedy Recovery!

The Exciting News first, is that I will have a Twelve Days of Holidays Giveaway Event!  You will hardly believe how many Unique and very Special Gifts will be offered! Many friends and Sponsors have Giveaways  for you that are quite varied. Come and Follow Art by Karena so that you will get first news of this Extravaganza!

 

 

The Winner of Two Dezigner Pillows from Pillows by Dezign is Amy of the blog Goodies and Besties! Congratulations to Amy!

Thank you to all who visited and entered this great giveaway. Not to worry though, the Holidays will bring many Wonderful Surprises! 

Thank you! I have won a subscription to Better Homes and Garden Magazine from Susan of the site Love Where You Live

 I am so grateful to Everyone I have met through this Wonderful world of Blogging!!

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

Amazing Dezigner Pillows Giveaway & Announcing a Winner

 DECORATE AFFORDABLY with Designer Fabric Pillows. Pillows by Dezign has Gorgeous decorative pillows with the average price being only $59 including the down/feather blend form. 

Their website is very user friendly, secure, and extremely easy to navigate.  ALL of their pillows are sewn in the United States, and all of the  fabrics come from respected mills throughout the Interior Design Community. Their goal is to provide superior customer service, build personal relationships with you, make your experiences with them delightful, and to help you find your personal sense of style in home décor!

 

 You can also order custom pillows from many of the Designer Fabric Houses. How great is that! Calling all Designers!

Decorative Throw pillows work anywhere in your home. Chairs, sofas, window seat, bedroom.

Choose from different styles. This is their Lumbar Pillow

The Bed Pillow Perfect for the Designer look in the bedroom!

As an Interior Designer, and owner of The Home Studio (www.thehomestudio.net) for over a decade, Marian LaFrance-Silverman has always said, “Decorative Pillows are the jewelry that completes the outfit.”

 

Fabric has always been Marian's passion starting with making her own clothes at age 11. She’s an artist, an interior decorator, and has even created beautiful stained glass windows and lamps. Despite the other interests she was always drawn back to fabrics. "Fabrics bring the interest and depth in to a room with color and overall design."

With that Marian convinced her son Brian to join her in creating Pillows by Dezign. 

You can see the vast assortment and selections when you visit their site Pillows By Dezign  

Click on the Blog tab as well for more inspiration. Changing out your pillows INSTANTLY transforms any room! Any Season!

Blue and Tan Ikat Throw Pillow

They generously sent me this Blue and Tan Ikat pattern Throw Pillow to Review and I can tell you the pillows are very high quality. Extremely comfortable. The Down/ feather fill inserts are wonderful!! Thank You!!

 To enter for a chance to win this generous and exciting Giveaway of Two 20 X 20 Throw Pillows

1) Visit Pillows by Dezign. Come back and tell us what pillow you would choose if you won (you can always change your mind later)

2) You MUST  Like Pillows by Dezign on Facebook!

3) Extra Entry Follow Pillows by Dezign on Twitter

4) For an additional Entry let me know that you are a follower of Art by Karena or become one!

5) Additional Entry simply Post about this Giveaway on your site!

That is 5 chances to Win!

Comment separately because I use Random.org to choose the winner! This Giveaway is open to Anyone. Just no anonymous comments Please.

The winner will be Chosen at Midnight EST on Sunday October 23rd and announced the following day. Spread the word!! 

Now for the Winner of The UPrinting Canvas Giveaway! It is Ann from Rooms of Inspiration

Jennette from Everton Terrace sent me a most beautiful necklace with a pearl and stamped initialed disk. I asked for J as it is for my daughter.

 Be sure to visit Jeanette and her fabulous Etsy Shop!

Thank you so much to my Followers, Friends, and Sponsors. Your Encouragement and Support mean the World to me!

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena