Escape to the South of France

<div align="center"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-dnEOdWZI/AAAAAAAAERM/KdzG6vLQWG8/s1600-h/sofopen.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444743768989063570" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-dnEOdWZI/AAAAAAAAERM/KdzG6vLQWG8/s400/sofopen.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> In the snowy winter months in New England I often find myself daydreaming about visiting beautiful, warm locations. I was fortunate to be introduced to this lovely stone villa in the south of France called La <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bastide</span>.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444742746338522514" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-crijkdZI/AAAAAAAAEQ0/WMUZ_6vSsP0/s400/SOF+2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 224px; CURSOR: hand" /> The villa has been restored and is filled with antiques. The owners are collectors and as such the home is filled with interesting and unique items. A neutral palette allows you to focus on the gorgeous stone walls and period details. Notice the fireplace and the fabulous arched wood fragments flanking the it on either side<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444742742077203058" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-crSrl4nI/AAAAAAAAEQs/zMLsvUpE6Ng/s400/SOF1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> The upholstery is tightly <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span> in natural linen. I love the coffee table and the wonderful white washed side table that has a lazy <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">susan</span> top.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-cr4gLlAI/AAAAAAAAEQ8/SDVnCglAGT0/s1600-h/SOF+3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444742752229889026" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-cr4gLlAI/AAAAAAAAEQ8/SDVnCglAGT0/s400/SOF+3.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> But, the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">pièce</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">de</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">résistance</span> of the room is surely the fireplace. The original mantel is one we only hope to copy here in the States. I love the lines of it, detailed but not too fussy. I also like the interesting assortment of items which line the top of the mantel. Clearly this is a home of collectors.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444739014603029138" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-ZSUwfupI/AAAAAAAAEO8/kuWsgBC1yqk/s400/sof11a.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> From a different angle you can see the introduction of color. The orange/coral throw and pillows bring the earthy outdoor tones we see from the window views indoors. In the height of summer we could change the throw and pillows to shades of lavender and give the entire room a different feel. This is why I am such a fan of neutrals.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444739231985557314" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-Ze-kh30I/AAAAAAAAEPs/iRFgI_22XBY/s400/sof15.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> As we head into the the kitchen you can peek through the doorway and see the fireplace. I included this shot to help you visualize the lay out. The zinc topped table is a dream - wine rack only an arms length away. I can just taste the local cheeses, olives and fresh baked bread.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444739025819789778" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-ZS-ix6dI/AAAAAAAAEPM/ZqTOWAZy-3g/s400/sof13.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> Standing in the doorway you have a full view of the kitchen. The antique plate rack and and marble topped table are to die for!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444739038256539874" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-ZTs37qOI/AAAAAAAAEPc/g6imvgnD7oQ/s400/sof14.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> The zinc topped table and vintage <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tolix</span> chairs are fabulous. Black steel windows and doors lead you out to the patio and terraces. Enameled street signs grace the walls.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444739224685439698" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-ZejYC6tI/AAAAAAAAEPk/hV0tpCre1a4/s400/sof11.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> Standing back in the living room we can spy a bedroom through the passageway to the left of the fireplace.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444739018302860354" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-ZSiimrEI/AAAAAAAAEPE/zDRvXnh_VSk/s400/sof12.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> The room is classically appointed with painted <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">amoire</span>, steel table, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span> arm chair, and the owners collection of vintage hats.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444741465788974466" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-bhAIxBYI/AAAAAAAAEQc/b_C_kRWEOqs/s400/sof7.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> A gauzy canopy hangs over the bed creating a very romantic atmosphere... as if just being in a stone villa in the south of France isn't romantic enough. Notice the bunches of lavender and the lavender silk pillows, see how different this room feels versus the coral pillows?<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-bhQtBUhI/AAAAAAAAEQk/jaQB50djS9w/s1600-h/sof8.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444741470236004882" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-bhQtBUhI/AAAAAAAAEQk/jaQB50djS9w/s400/sof8.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Gorgeous unlined linen and lemon cypress in a terracotta pot on the windowsill. Notice the window hardware. In my next life all my window hardware would look like that.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-bg181WhI/AAAAAAAAEQU/65nHZ3zr7JM/s1600-h/sof6.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444741463054572050" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-bg181WhI/AAAAAAAAEQU/65nHZ3zr7JM/s400/sof6.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Exiting the bedroom is a lovely vignette of local artwork and antiques.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-ai-hv51I/AAAAAAAAEQM/zEgrNq-7VnQ/s1600-h/sofend2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444740400204998482" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-ai-hv51I/AAAAAAAAEQM/zEgrNq-7VnQ/s400/sofend2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> The outdoor areas are also a sight to behold with a wonderful stone walls, cypress trees, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">lavender</span> and a pool.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-aWosqXwI/AAAAAAAAEQE/qOYtgN2zgK8/s1600-h/sofend.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444740188186763010" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4-aWosqXwI/AAAAAAAAEQE/qOYtgN2zgK8/s400/sofend.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Finally a small stone terrace with wonderful rosemary hedges.<br />Thanks for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">traveling</span> with me - it was a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">welcome</span> escape from the snow.<br /><span style="font-size:78%;">.</span></div><div align="center">Read about another wonderful French Villa at Boxwood Terrace click <a href="http://boxwoodterrace.blogspot.com/2010/02/magnifique-villa-in-provence.html">here.</a> <div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">.</span></div><span style="font-size:78%;">(all photos property of beachstudios.com)</span> </div>

Escape to the South of France

In the snowy winter months in New England I often find myself daydreaming about visiting beautiful, warm locations. I was fortunate to be i...

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Arts and Crafts of India-Salabhanjika Sculptures and Indian Decor..

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="font-size: 85%;">In South India, many temples have <strong>Salabhanjika</strong>, a stone sculpture in the shape of a woman holding a lamp that is set in front of the sanctum sanctorum as a sacred guard to the deity <strong>(Dwarapalika).</strong> Recently they are a indispensible part of Indian Decor.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">A <strong>"Salabhanjika"</strong> sculpture refers to a styled figure of a woman standing provocatively near a branch of a tree. In sanskrit, <strong>salabanjika means "breaking the branch of a tree".</strong> The salabhanjika woman is shown with exaggerated breasts and hip, and is an extremely attractive woman. </span><br /><div><span style="font-size: 85%;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-size: 85%;">She is usually used as a decorative element in monuments, temples and at home.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 85%;"></span> </div><div><span style="font-size: 85%;">The sculpture imparts all the grace and feelings of the feminine ideal. This is an imaginary saga of the innate conflicts of the human heart. While Salabhanjika yearns for union with the sculptor and dreams for happiness however ephemeral it might be.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 85%;"></span> </div><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Also called madanakai, salabanjika or shilabalika, they epitomize the ideal female form, depicted as dancers, musicians, drummers, and rarely erotic in nature.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 85%;">Highly decorated <strong>salabhanjika</strong> figures can be seen at Belur and Halebid temples too. These figures depict the female in different postures such as dancing, grooming oneself, playing a musical instrument etc. </span><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 85%;"></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGAiEuXcLg14Vu26tKnm-FQ_8-KrRngGygVQzx2HlAXYarTCsh5zCqA1up0tbC4HEsB_6FcyicgN4BaV1rYhN07p4eNg6oOJASgR-JOocCNsJV32KejttebYD2KF7MyELi3zAr9e8u37Q/s1600-h/Belur_3a.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444213288832607522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGAiEuXcLg14Vu26tKnm-FQ_8-KrRngGygVQzx2HlAXYarTCsh5zCqA1up0tbC4HEsB_6FcyicgN4BaV1rYhN07p4eNg6oOJASgR-JOocCNsJV32KejttebYD2KF7MyELi3zAr9e8u37Q/s400/Belur_3a.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 246px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 176px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjekUSKcPGC0AbO0FkRr-7CAxnpkRDzCH6kgyS8E5qfAX3K0-7EuIp8NN55WuEktx92DI8H1vWcgVV5-axg-Y7Hb6my2boC5KmeF6yu6wECUprbaEGRGMXK-Nn0CVOyLr56YdS4fLFPsiY/s1600-h/20030425000206709.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444213283699477170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjekUSKcPGC0AbO0FkRr-7CAxnpkRDzCH6kgyS8E5qfAX3K0-7EuIp8NN55WuEktx92DI8H1vWcgVV5-axg-Y7Hb6my2boC5KmeF6yu6wECUprbaEGRGMXK-Nn0CVOyLr56YdS4fLFPsiY/s400/20030425000206709.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 216px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN5OPLbX2eBDiT9PReAiG-vnv_buKpJLNh8pTNXoAdvMC8s1apocMFnXrLI46A0inf7qj6Y6KufIxSau-IEDVnrhNTnhui-r9ngXl2jozEoY3C7mQUBlIIbpZQProxBxFX8xOuQfHtV-A/s1600-h/20030425000206704.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444213282267314178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN5OPLbX2eBDiT9PReAiG-vnv_buKpJLNh8pTNXoAdvMC8s1apocMFnXrLI46A0inf7qj6Y6KufIxSau-IEDVnrhNTnhui-r9ngXl2jozEoY3C7mQUBlIIbpZQProxBxFX8xOuQfHtV-A/s400/20030425000206704.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 203px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PbhZVfHYUVhIN9wIFHkI3NQFU0NpeY4F_Y8AFCw8lGlVANfnnIfu0q0tRohjnKYrzWeMujYxJ4HQzXqUqGsiECS5-yZvLmo_BYNOeLkZq9zuniscUxmML4fQX9f1OFOZMUM89g-XS_c/s1600-h/20030425000206703.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444213052205294770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PbhZVfHYUVhIN9wIFHkI3NQFU0NpeY4F_Y8AFCw8lGlVANfnnIfu0q0tRohjnKYrzWeMujYxJ4HQzXqUqGsiECS5-yZvLmo_BYNOeLkZq9zuniscUxmML4fQX9f1OFOZMUM89g-XS_c/s400/20030425000206703.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 350px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 203px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfrVcdhG3DumESIqyYXcWjsiU2wIyYBFG_hPY1dogrCPiRPoB5r00_CmfSDGnEu9ynqNnenrFtZO_m9X90ApBb8M3BmoQ5auitSUHV-N5L3Hj_38IxfnpjrbMFJvEGK4S7i6dZ9nlQHs/s1600-h/2162030479_aeacca9f18.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444213048234033138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfrVcdhG3DumESIqyYXcWjsiU2wIyYBFG_hPY1dogrCPiRPoB5r00_CmfSDGnEu9ynqNnenrFtZO_m9X90ApBb8M3BmoQ5auitSUHV-N5L3Hj_38IxfnpjrbMFJvEGK4S7i6dZ9nlQHs/s400/2162030479_aeacca9f18.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 266px;" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">below the salabhanjika figure is from the Sanchi Stupa, here, the figures are used as architectural brackets.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I love collecting <strong>Salabhanjikas </strong>at home.Below are some of them from my collection.The different moods of <strong>Salabhnajikas</strong> at home during <strong>holi celebrations</strong>.They looked graceful as ever carrying ,marigolds and colours ...</span><br /><br /><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444212203367963570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsbDIA7cH2DV90PwhSPL-AmvYsUGqGBU3zzkumJmdbuw-7PBaXJpcS1n1xElo5O6Qa34mPTSpvpuxyjBEGlPPibPm1irJLD88wSDKBXw_nKkkX7u-6kV09sgAkPWmaX3iggADYLVufqQ/s400/IMG_3164.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444213030470470722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ3fGWBRxtjF0fwfROfi4i9aPz4vp4sxSyiK-Xx2fk7_kqwP3RrD4nok7NKoTH57eEhwibHHhh-wualZeOwM3Pe6yfg_SPrESEhyphenhyphens6oHAvOikHVCmBkC_svhBmlDmLT43h3ISD3Jkw-RI/s400/IMG_3193+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444213026315728530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIWOs9-W7kqDulU2liviCPo7_aR4wpNaZ4smvaG-boUyW6IYd3w7mL7ROT_x-TV7gPDjtug_XF9ohuq7agovvP1m0uBBrKe4_tgEjhnLSkwWXZSzAXSPHB9s7ULb0P90DpLgJSdAg-pf0/s400/IMG_3176+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444212730736011970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEU47ViK4QM6Py47NLknjegYoMrqLga5DgZTdpNPZcr7oHkQD9eOXqt1RL0XONqrFHoY2_Qc3JWKOVvyquBC_Qe8PWg_QVJ33GWkcUBNQO92unQ5wNtOt36TZ9qvjAnS3etmcN-Sb-DJU/s400/IMG_3185+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44TqgQ0ya15kqEP47_0M1HVMCAKglWmJ8w4fWVo4ONSzWWrQvfIW1H0mVc0Y9Wa9Feo4PO6E5dJ2dJ3dH5Lu9Yr4rzBvQQtY5eAwH-x3Wx-0k4yIB-uJuH8aeVjtXlWz9KPsAJPw45Oc/s1600-h/IMG_3228+copy.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444213047227202482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44TqgQ0ya15kqEP47_0M1HVMCAKglWmJ8w4fWVo4ONSzWWrQvfIW1H0mVc0Y9Wa9Feo4PO6E5dJ2dJ3dH5Lu9Yr4rzBvQQtY5eAwH-x3Wx-0k4yIB-uJuH8aeVjtXlWz9KPsAJPw45Oc/s400/IMG_3228+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444212715384169250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixFy-XTAomRgRQUUSgze51u1dPa9brMto12FtyKzQhG2FgEWBVD97Udb-jACSmWNCOQ7NwpLeeF7GUtnDfoRYbkVEePGdHu2oqMpljnm2fKf69ityt-l7W-nUGXLGddDlTQXCDe1HeMlg/s400/IMG_3187+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /> <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444212723137170754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTaWbLXYm1P8W7ZLxIZ92D6kzW8hyphenhyphenMrkzq0T4_jQaBHNN6bjkOnrDm-jyB2WPhIYNGn_saRUfMoQvp_VmgOyQ3oURLAtNSQPpU8RLXjjKa_lI02NoIhQ_N28HEWhyphenhyphenESwkSYoyZOxTqmY/s400/IMG_3217+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444212711768297282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJFRhVf0g0GeaV7RtyGPO5IKd4Kn_vk8h-guZITlE9oSp1tyOBvApe4TRSoHrJOAKgz2oPi-KL9y2XW61N6sWfNUkmutluQayPezgC00KH4tHtd9EuHXAt0kTr3il-25mERG5NMbiyrsE/s400/IMG_3234+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444212701487006402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4MTDUYltqPZw_VmaaGsXepARyVb7nNrQL_QAIkM9yBtsGx2CnzDrpyX2Rg7Jmxubqo0-OeWLXjSacLSYTW4SxS-MyZ7aUkMaMmWEiSGLtn3fIJOuKiQNWQF1xHfOz2GjKMcmbfPGozY/s400/IMG_3226+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444647656219378066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4JEiD3gOvqDsHqOHSl0ibflbJ1b2d3NSiuxH97wt_UMD5yXLgLeaUM5TXiTEKCuy7KzfCnDbdGWEuMlJS3Kda0U5lqStv2dWK9-HJMzetdhuNJmplQ2PGifAi7DGkHAl8eS0law5nwH4/s400/IMG_6081+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Salabhanjika at Fort Kochi</span></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444647626144079906" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-FlhV95yjg9s3iuRC_M7d0DFOm97fgU5c0Jx97aQ6QtuyVNPYPAXw0tnb1HSrZEpbmx49s0ijMEhF6iSw0jSpCbQFGpyDONNYyLvJrq-M9BfINhIZ4m58spWOCMRX7QgmtKzZdjpZui0/s400/IMG_5358+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444647640527865842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDHqgV8mCx4HE2Jv79miqJXMcaTa0bsvJLq-yzdcfqslmgk0RxsvBgDv_l9m6-tVsTdEc69lVi3k_3gjRAon8cTSBl0qRY8I2Qg1HDoc4_avUtECLPJg3-NDVBwg7YeGqYu-ip73IpM8/s400/IMG_5360+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 85%;">Salabhanjikas at Padmanabhapuram Palace and my little one having the feel of the hands of ....</span></div><span style="font-size: 85%;"> The grace and divinity of the Salabhnajikas still will remain forever.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;"></span> <br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Images and Ideas conceived by Lakshmi Arvind,except1,2,3,4,5</span><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Text$ ImageCourtesy:LakshmiArvind,greatbuildings.com,pallavikrishnan.com,</span><span style="font-size: 85%;">mistryimages.com,asi.nic.in</span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div>

Arts and Crafts of India-Salabhanjika Sculptures and Indian Decor..

In South India, many temples have Salabhanjika , a stone sculpture in the shape of a woman holding a lamp that is set in front of the sanctu...

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Beauty on the Rocky Coast

<div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;"></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujZbRIwGI/AAAAAAAAEMs/92vHdGJa6I0/s1600-h/WHitten+1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443624231819067490" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujZbRIwGI/AAAAAAAAEMs/92vHdGJa6I0/s400/WHitten+1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 313px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> As you know I am a fan of the northern New England coast. Though the water is always cold and the coast rocky, with few soft sandy areas, I love the contrast of ocean and craggy coast line. This house, redesigned by <a href="http://www.whittenarchitects.com/coastal/project.php?id=19#">Whitten Architects </a>is a perfect example. The house began as 1950's ranch, but was renovated into a spectacular ocean front home. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujZVZVZYI/AAAAAAAAEMk/2xHnOyZe8q8/s1600-h/whitten2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443624230242837890" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujZVZVZYI/AAAAAAAAEMk/2xHnOyZe8q8/s400/whitten2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 253px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> The owners requested that they keep the feel of old beach house. The screen porch above captures the feeling with the beadboard ceiling and wicker furniture.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujK9V9nhI/AAAAAAAAEMc/RiH4P1cDoL0/s1600-h/whitten+3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443623983268077074" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujK9V9nhI/AAAAAAAAEMc/RiH4P1cDoL0/s400/whitten+3.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 273px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Here is another porch - I love the rockers and granite steps - this is classic coastal Maine.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443623975255637506" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujKffpfgI/AAAAAAAAEMM/FE2aX9P9hjY/s400/whitten5.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 269px; CURSOR: hand" /><br />The owners are empty nesters, but wanted the home to have lots of seating and bedrooms for guests. I love the choices of slipcovers in this room. Also notice the sisal rug. They mixed in some antique tables and accessories which give the room wonderful, warm feeling. Notice the antique weathervane arrow and the black and white framed photos lining the walls.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujKsh1hMI/AAAAAAAAEMU/zmN7mc6vRHQ/s1600-h/whitten+4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443623978754475202" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujKsh1hMI/AAAAAAAAEMU/zmN7mc6vRHQ/s400/whitten+4.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 276px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> They were able to find and incorporate an antique mantel in the family room. Doesn't it just make the room?! Again more black and white photos - this is an easy and inexpensive decorating touch that can a classic feeling to your decor. Antique Pond boat on mantel is a classic addition.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujKFCE2jI/AAAAAAAAEME/l9-IqpQUYig/s1600-h/whitten+6.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443623968152279602" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujKFCE2jI/AAAAAAAAEME/l9-IqpQUYig/s400/whitten+6.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 255px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Above is the kitchen, notice the cabinets are mixed with an antique painted cupboard. You can see the loft above from a different angle.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujJ7t1XMI/AAAAAAAAEL8/rm4IiRA4uGI/s1600-h/whitten+7.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443623965651459266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4ujJ7t1XMI/AAAAAAAAEL8/rm4IiRA4uGI/s400/whitten+7.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 269px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> A four poster bed is the one of the highlights of the master bedroom, but the view is the real highlight. Sheer curtains, frame rather hid the spectacular view.<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4syCWT5_9I/AAAAAAAAEL0/TN_6Z7CXVHI/s1600-h/131.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443499590537576402" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S4syCWT5_9I/AAAAAAAAEL0/TN_6Z7CXVHI/s400/131.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 284px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Built in beds make the most of the sloping ceilings. A fabulous retreat for the younger set. For more photos of built in beds click <a href="http://willowdecor.blogspot.com/2008/11/built-in-beds_16.html">here.</a> </div><div align="left">'</div><div></div><div>Check back this week for photos of my finished dining room and another new project ...<br /></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">'</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">Check out other renovations at <a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/2010/02/welcome-to-59th-metamorphosis-monday.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BetweenNapsOnThePorch+%28BETWEEN+NAPS+ON+THE+PORCH%29">Between Naps on the Porch - Metamorphsis Monday</a></span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">(all photos Whitten Architects - photo credit Brian Vanden Brink) </span></div></div><br /></div>

Beauty on the Rocky Coast

As you know I am a fan of the northern New England coast. Though the water is always cold and the coast rocky, with few soft sandy areas, I...

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