Astronomical Astral

I have long admired the astral chandelier...or something very close to it.  To me, it is the perfect combination of modernity and warmth, a tough combination to achieve. 

Imagine my delight and surprise when I found it for the best deal I have ever seen on this fixture!  Madison Seating carries it for about $600.00 cheaper than the other sites (and brick and mortar stores) I have seen it on/in. 

Of course, I have no where to use it...yet.  However, I dream of hanging one over each twin bed in a room not-yet-created.  I also think they are the perfect size to line up in any type of room a la Sixx Design. 


Imagine the awesome astral arranged similarly.

All images via Sixx Design

via one fresh nest

I definitely dig the "add another big fixture to the ceiling" technique so often utilized by Sixx. 

Now.  Completely unrelated to all things astral...I am so excited about my upcoming weekend!  To be honest, Gimleters, I have had a rough go of it lately.  My days have had a bit more thorns than roses.  I know...nothing lasts forever.  To push through the rough spots, what is the best medicine?  I believe it is to surround yourself with your tribe...or some of it, at least.  Two All Star members of my tribe are arriving on Friday to stay at Casa de Haynes, and I couldn't be more ready for their arrival. 

What are we doing, you ask? 

Well....once upon a time (not too long ago and quite possibly, this summer, for my sister's wedding...) we would have been doing this (and, quite possibly, all in one night):

Carousel Bar in the Monteleone Hotel (a popular post-wedding spot for this gang)

 

Napoleon House...I do believe the hype.  Best Pimm's Cup in the City! 

An oldie but goodie...right in our neighborhood.  Site of many "interesting" nights. 

The Columns.  A favorite place to grab evening drinks, pre-dinner. 

Bridge Lounge on Magazine Street.  My old law school stomping grounds....and still a spot to meet for a drink with your pooch in tow!   

The Delachaise on St. Charles...still a weekly spot.  (The cheese plate is amazing and the fries done in goose fat almost cause me to fall off the vegetarian wagon.)

**images via flickr

Now, during this particular visit, we are quite happily going to do this:

Walking here.

 

PJ's on Magazine to grab our iced coffees...and window shop along the way!

 

Angelique Baby to shop for Adrianne's Baby No. 2! 

A short walk from the guest room...dinner and conversation al fresco at Casa Haynes. 

We are also eating here.

Martinique Bistro.

One of my faves and a very highly underrated spot on Magazine...for a perfect courtyard evening!

...and going here.

What is in the cards for each of us?

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room in the French Quarter

I am so ready for Adrianne and Jen's arrival.  I am pretty sure that we won't stop talking from their arrival at our house until Adrianne is back on the plane headed to Virginia!  Nothing like old friend/roommate/bridesmaid/travel buddy therapy. 

Cheers,

JSH