Book Review & Giveaway: MORE book for kids of all ages

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJu5e9PuEtqkP9mVk6l-XEMrnYmdOKB0UncY6nAmaQqFeVXt2ocycacodxPsA7hk4UH3PscnHIwpk5B3uF8p0i0Lgow7J2zzgB5dZyJcVfGDJC5CUTiTkxmEk111yHeBy-xACfyLWFArM/s1600/More.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJu5e9PuEtqkP9mVk6l-XEMrnYmdOKB0UncY6nAmaQqFeVXt2ocycacodxPsA7hk4UH3PscnHIwpk5B3uF8p0i0Lgow7J2zzgB5dZyJcVfGDJC5CUTiTkxmEk111yHeBy-xACfyLWFArM/s1600/More.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>his book is a little different than my standard shelter book review or post. But the message of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0547610831/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=chameleoninte-20&linkCode=am2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0547610831">MORE</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=chameleoninte-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0547610831" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> by I.C. Springman with illustrations by <a href="http://brianlies.com/" target="_blank">Brian Lies</a> (published by Houghton Mifflin) relates directly to the home industry.  With our houses bursting to the seams with stuff, garages so full of junk that our expensive cars sit outside and the storage industry one of the few not effected by the recession, it's really far past time that we get back to a "less is more" mindset. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZee033LM1P0IOI_RU1oB5HbFDhLFtWr9FZ29E2zyuyNk9ET566bhYBmmGZiuFUlheOqW_JNDG_pJ-6UHVi5I7ftc2T82To7uVmz30pzWoCpeFA8lFLecownqj54HBuJ_s7PEvNZU1vks/s1600/more+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZee033LM1P0IOI_RU1oB5HbFDhLFtWr9FZ29E2zyuyNk9ET566bhYBmmGZiuFUlheOqW_JNDG_pJ-6UHVi5I7ftc2T82To7uVmz30pzWoCpeFA8lFLecownqj54HBuJ_s7PEvNZU1vks/s1600/more+art.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">MORE</span></span></b> is a children's picture book with a serious message that has been delightfully packaged with sparse yet compelling text and lush illustrations. Its story is that of a magpie who starts collecting a few baubles here and there and has to keep building new nests to contain it all. Eventually, he hits critical mass and let's just say, (spoiler alert!) gravity takes its toll. In the end, our magpie friend comes to appreciate the value of only a few things that truly have meaning in his life. <br /><br /><i>Full disclosure</i> - illustrator Brian Lies is a good friend of mine, his wife is one of my oldest and dearest friends and I have the honor of being Godmother to their daughter.  I've had the privilege of seeing Brian's illustrations develop from rough sketches to beautiful, minutely detailed final paintings. One of the hallmarks of Brian's work is his focus on the tiniest of details - literally tiny, you may need a magnifying glass to see them. It's what makes his books so much fun to read for adults. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSyXnHKH_qDn2qB-fE6pQysHm37px7Athb-_VlCMz9ZsFQGIr4ljkFALSpz0Aose7uIda2d2hVOZdwG9jB_0W9r89sSFkn1-N891Ye1pAIxslrd6IJ789seTs1KtSqQwiNjU4xxuknOZ2/s1600/More+back+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSyXnHKH_qDn2qB-fE6pQysHm37px7Athb-_VlCMz9ZsFQGIr4ljkFALSpz0Aose7uIda2d2hVOZdwG9jB_0W9r89sSFkn1-N891Ye1pAIxslrd6IJ789seTs1KtSqQwiNjU4xxuknOZ2/s1600/More+back+cover.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">B</span></span></b>rian is an awarding winning author/illustrators and his BATS series of books have been on the New York Times Best Seller's Lists.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rkzitOPGD50NKvW_KJ8cOvgzHuCLMIxeVefzZheWvdAjBb6v7V1l85RnfLwr5fp_X7dFoH5cPpFkaKyUMZ2z2_Gze0f-xQOzhyRUizRDysTjwfkvzrWZQkNj2iIkEvdWkRMmcUzEEtC7/s1600/bats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rkzitOPGD50NKvW_KJ8cOvgzHuCLMIxeVefzZheWvdAjBb6v7V1l85RnfLwr5fp_X7dFoH5cPpFkaKyUMZ2z2_Gze0f-xQOzhyRUizRDysTjwfkvzrWZQkNj2iIkEvdWkRMmcUzEEtC7/s640/bats.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0547610831/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=chameleoninte-20&linkCode=am2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0547610831">MORE</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=chameleoninte-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0547610831" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, written by I.C. Springman and illustrated by Brian Lies, is officially on sale today! If you have kids, know a kid or are a kid - I can't recommend this book more highly. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I</span></span></b>'d like to offer a signed copy of MORE to one of my readers. Please leave a comment telling me who the recipient will be (it's okay if it's you!) and make sure to leave your email so I can contact you. If you prefer not to leave your email in your comment,  you may <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com" target="_blank">email it me</a> after you leave the comment.  I'll pick a winner by random drawing from the comments left here in a week or so. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I</span></span></b>f you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!<a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

Book Review & Giveaway: MORE book for kids of all ages

T his book is a little different than my standard shelter book review or post. But the message of MORE by I.C. Springman with illustrations...

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Movie Inspiration: A little backyard wedding known as Twilight

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/14214555043828443_acijQpaU_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/14214555043828443_acijQpaU_f.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">I</span></b> originally wrote this post for another website, but they ultimately decided they couldn't use it, so here we go!</div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/14214555043828448_TuSp6KH9_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/14214555043828448_TuSp6KH9_f.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"></div><b style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">W</span></b><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">hether or not you’re a fan of the Twilight Saga books by Stephanie Meyer or the movies starring Rob Pattinson and Kristen Stewart there is no doubt that the movie wedding scene in the most recent installment, Breaking Dawn Pt. 1, was romantic and beautiful. Set in a lush forest, the look was created by noted event planner </span><a href="http://www.aristocraticbytammy.com/" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;" target="_blank">Tammy Polatsek</a><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> . There was even a giveaway of a Twilight Themed wedding to be created by Ms. Polatsek, sponsored by Summit Entertainment. I don't know who won it, but they were lucky. The Centives website calculated the cost of the wedding in a</span><a href="http://www.centives.net/S/2011/how-much-did-edward-and-bella%E2%80%99s-wedding-cost/" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;" target="_blank"> fun post here</a><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">. Seems low to me, but who knows. </span><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">While the movie set was indeed over-the-top and dramatic, it’s still a look that can be re-created in your own back yard. If you’re planning a DIY wedding at home and wish to take inspiration from the Twilight Movie – here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">[click on images for links to vendor sites]</span></i>: </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_07164183000P?blockNo=3&blockType=G3&prdNo=3&i_cntr=1330379033168%20%20%20%20" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://s.shld.net/is/image/Sears/07164183000?hei=315&wid=315&op_sharpen=1&resMode=sharp&op_usm=0.9,0.5,0,0" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Metal Garden Arbor</b>: A beautiful arbor covered with greens and flowers is a mainstay of many outdoor weddings. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://free.woodworking-plans.org/arbor-plans.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://free.woodworking-plans.org/images/arbor-kits/athens-arbor.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>DIY Garden Arbor</b>: Hire a contractor or make it yourself! The enchantment of your big day will be with you always with a custom built garden arbor. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.save-on-crafts.com/flowerstand.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://bevfabriccrafts.us-dc1-edit.store.yahoo.net/I/bevfabriccrafts_2187_254622622" width="201" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Five-foot Metal Flower Stand from Save On Crafts</b>: Fill these tall flower holders with natural or faux flowers and greens. This is a perfect accent piece for the beginning of the long walk down the aisle. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0053DY6O0/ref=asc_df_B0053DY6O01915746?smid=A2978SE0T7X7VL&tag=shopzilla_mp_1211-20&linkCode=asn&creative=395105&creativeASIN=B0053DY6O0" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51cuL8fMI6L._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Wisteria Garland Strings</b>: If your garden cannot grow fast enough to cover your arbor in time for the big day, it’s time to go faux! These strings of wired faux wisteria in light purple will fill in the spaces. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://bevfabriccrafts.us-dc1-edit.store.yahoo.net/I/bevfabriccrafts_2075_978559437" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://bevfabriccrafts.us-dc1-edit.store.yahoo.net/I/bevfabriccrafts_2075_978559437" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Moss covered pots, bowls and fillers from Save On Crafts</b>: This collection of natural moss covered pieces truly captures the rustic natural elements of the Twilight wedding. Can be used to create centerpieces for the tables or chair decorations. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://wildflowerlinens.com/blog/grand-opening-wildflower-linen-home-store-in-costa-mesa-ca" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://wildflowerlinens.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Twilight-Home-e1322786567671.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Linens by Wildflower Linens</b>: This magical assortment of linens is an authorized collection based the movie. The collection includes an assortment of table runners or placements that come in beautiful shades of green in ethereal fabrics.  </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wildflowerlinens.com/products/chair-covers/562" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://www.wildflowerlinens.com/images/Isabelle_Citron_Chair_Back_cc300.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Chair Covers by Wildflower Linens</b>: These rental chair covers will turn even the most mundane rental chair into a beautiful seat fit for a bride. Mix and match for a more natural, woodland feel. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.balsamhill.com/Ivy-Globe-Topiary-by-Balsam-Hill-p/ivg-t.htm" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/origin-cdn.volusion.com/cm4qv.tyn2h/v/vspfiles/photos/IVG-T-2T.jpg?1326988524" width="302" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Ivy Topiary from Balsam Hill</b>: Reusable year after year, these faux Ivy Topiary trees come pre-lit with fairy lights to cast a glow over the wedding proceedings. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.twilightbycarmona.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3&Itemid=4" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://www.twilightbycarmona.com/images/stories/dish%20small.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Twilight Dishes Set by Carmona New York & Co.</b>: Carmona is designer Tammy Polatsek’s own branded line of dishes. The Twilight set was created for the movie and is now being sold to the public. While not a budget item, these porcelain dishes would make lovely china for any newly married couple. The sets are packaged in sets of two which include salad, dinner, soup bowls and cups and saucers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ezibuy.com.au/productimages/V3/large/1/30455_258595_68952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.ezibuy.com.au/productimages/V3/large/1/30455_258595_68952.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><a href="http://www.ezibuy.com.au/productimages/V3/large/1/30455_258595_68952.jpg" target="_blank"></a><br />Adding a <b>candle <a href="http://www.ezibuy.com.au/homeware/home-decor/ribas-lantern-86227.htm" target="_blank">lantern</a></b> or two or three will add a romantic glow to the entire proceedings. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><b style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">A</span></b><span style="color: black;">nd finally, just for fun, here is an outdoor wedding design I created using <a href="http://olioboard.com/" target="_blank">Olioboard</a> and many of the items above. </span> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6w12eJ7pIi4BJzNrZyYlnbGQ6xtHPOHiBFZF2g74dT9GYu7Ky3SHzzlJTXZynpKdzInAcsKtSvzZ0YMLP4lKUaMPfZIMS0JDOFcxuU9bCQUaI-Py8u8y05zBM9lEwa9qZ6nw_HKBJYGW4/s1600/OB+Twighlight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6w12eJ7pIi4BJzNrZyYlnbGQ6xtHPOHiBFZF2g74dT9GYu7Ky3SHzzlJTXZynpKdzInAcsKtSvzZ0YMLP4lKUaMPfZIMS0JDOFcxuU9bCQUaI-Py8u8y05zBM9lEwa9qZ6nw_HKBJYGW4/s640/OB+Twighlight.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="color: navy;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></div><b style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">W</span></b><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">hat are your favorite movie weddings? Would you or have you used a movie wedding as inspiration for your own wedding ?</span><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I</span></span></b>f you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!<a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

Movie Inspiration: A little backyard wedding known as Twilight

I originally wrote this post for another website, but they ultimately decided they couldn't use it, so here we go! W hether or not you’...

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Friday Pretty: Nantucket meets Malibu

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb1CKzbXK0aHvViIRYxJShzK1nZGWIh8038j-X_WgqIzTSt35yNwFZCFr7w8OImfaw26093gtxEtfg5-sQnO_GlhFxWD3SwtFtm8YE-e9W-_UX6UTQnPmPivZPStb9N8atSJH7JLghQ-Cw/s1600/howie+house+ext.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb1CKzbXK0aHvViIRYxJShzK1nZGWIh8038j-X_WgqIzTSt35yNwFZCFr7w8OImfaw26093gtxEtfg5-sQnO_GlhFxWD3SwtFtm8YE-e9W-_UX6UTQnPmPivZPStb9N8atSJH7JLghQ-Cw/s640/howie+house+ext.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>his fantastic house went on the market in December 2011. It is owned by a well-known comedian and I'll be honest, I was a bit surprised. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The real estate description reads: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Located in the prestigious Point Dume area, this Nantucket masterpiece  was exquisitely crafted by renowned architect <a href="http://www.buaia.com/index.php" target="_blank">Douglas Burdge</a>. With panoramic Santa Monica bay ocean views, this stately residence sits on over a flat acre of with expansive lawns and huge outdoor patio and gorgeous pool. Unveiled in 2009, the home boasts 5bds, 5.5 ba, plus office, theater, gym and guest house. Crafted with the finest of finishes, the timeless  architectural style weds both an elegant sophistication and casual seaside living  with a seamless indoor outdoor flow. One of the finest homes ever conceived in this exclusive seaside community.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The house is on the market for $7.25 Million<i>. </i> Real estate records show that the owners purchased the property it in 2006 for $3M, tore down the existing house and built this one in 2008-09. <i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.buaia.com/pliki/AllProjects/6950Dume_Malibu/thumb/dume-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://www.buaia.com/pliki/AllProjects/6950Dume_Malibu/thumb/dume-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">H</span></span>ere is the <a href="http://www.buaia.com/index.php?page=project&id=135,706&id_kat=" target="_blank">architects rendering</a> from their website - although, clearly things changed a bit between rendering and the final build. In the rendering, the main entrance looks to be on the far left, under a pergola. But the image below shows the drive and walkway to a more side-looking entrance. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJXBaLMHziZSKlhSPCfcdWnZImFX4AQXhPX3tVYT4qmumhTVksqKuIPnZLo9zmSae-cTQTDLJ0MXck2uEAVrcWb_DpE7DZ2HjwANnBG-_sFObREHQi2aZlK3k1Kxu2yT_-U94J_T1lNIH/s1600/Ext+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJXBaLMHziZSKlhSPCfcdWnZImFX4AQXhPX3tVYT4qmumhTVksqKuIPnZLo9zmSae-cTQTDLJ0MXck2uEAVrcWb_DpE7DZ2HjwANnBG-_sFObREHQi2aZlK3k1Kxu2yT_-U94J_T1lNIH/s640/Ext+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">L</span></span></b>ove the simple shutters.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqiKXVCl8S8cvmYn2b8aYGugt9Bg-QZVuk0fEtDuxN0KmIwGzKH1pbea8TedwHl3NbY8e1aun5Wh3aC1tjLhhTG2ImWVnSa9kgpM7D3jZ6T_rLjW8HeB3-_5IsT45aP0wZi3J8WyBkkK-1/s1600/Exterior+front+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqiKXVCl8S8cvmYn2b8aYGugt9Bg-QZVuk0fEtDuxN0KmIwGzKH1pbea8TedwHl3NbY8e1aun5Wh3aC1tjLhhTG2ImWVnSa9kgpM7D3jZ6T_rLjW8HeB3-_5IsT45aP0wZi3J8WyBkkK-1/s640/Exterior+front+closeup.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A</span></span></b>nd below is the entance - cute red door and all.  Am wondering why the listings don't show the formal entrance? Stone walls surround the staircase to the upstairs, which are bathed in light.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDAKaI-vz5hkdoH7HDc40kNMVtDhM8DJd4BKQ9nYas4R9bjQfA9c7TQD_j1kaQJj4Bj76SGfWXzPSWzprdW6hGq-rm4bj5NGW3dUjRjLRLB7ifuzDlNNYZb869HKsKugOSQNsXNEamPfx/s1600/Front+Door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDAKaI-vz5hkdoH7HDc40kNMVtDhM8DJd4BKQ9nYas4R9bjQfA9c7TQD_j1kaQJj4Bj76SGfWXzPSWzprdW6hGq-rm4bj5NGW3dUjRjLRLB7ifuzDlNNYZb869HKsKugOSQNsXNEamPfx/s640/Front+Door.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>he living room is a bright, wide open space with a two-story vaulted ceiling.  Remind you of anything? <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjux558Nrxhh0OdiskjxdqP589YF86gaIgvQyJ2kYHSrKKY40B8e1TMqt6nlKIBNd3TLonfGerWmVgmp-ULd78JJri9ohNBo3brfVyaIg4Hp2zLWO4QmtA2G8xxIqAoMlyPhk3mSTXMN6LK/s1600/LR1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjux558Nrxhh0OdiskjxdqP589YF86gaIgvQyJ2kYHSrKKY40B8e1TMqt6nlKIBNd3TLonfGerWmVgmp-ULd78JJri9ohNBo3brfVyaIg4Hp2zLWO4QmtA2G8xxIqAoMlyPhk3mSTXMN6LK/s640/LR1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Y</span></span></b>es, it's another "Something's Gotta Give" clone, which I say with all due respect. It's hard to imagine that a house built during the height of the SGG decorating madness that looks so much like it was not inspired by that design.  A brief bit of internet searching has brought me no answers as to who the decorator might have been. It could be our mystery comedian's wife, although her bio doesn't suggest a passion for decor. On the other hand, HE (who shall be named below, don't peak!) worked as a rug salesman and eventually opened his own rug store in his native Canada. So, while the owner was, to me, a big surprise, perhaps it's not that surprising. And his wife attended Harvard, so there is a slight Massachusetts connection.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">B</span></span></b>ack to decorating. In the image below to the left of center, you can see the inside of the red "side" door. The staircase is the interior of the stone clad walls shown in the exterior and rendering images. At the very right edge of the image, we see what I assume is the formal - and probably rarely used - front door.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQ__19iou3RrHqUiU4mq0fY9brGKfoZsTjkrnbXpnPGxppbf_nitlbA7ADF2rQYzRktzcIkaCuQM4OdGalHhq3YAFaB4o0pl1S9NjPCz7Fqkfkke4xmo3szxPMExc8v_qCc5eKDFS0L_4/s1600/LR2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQ__19iou3RrHqUiU4mq0fY9brGKfoZsTjkrnbXpnPGxppbf_nitlbA7ADF2rQYzRktzcIkaCuQM4OdGalHhq3YAFaB4o0pl1S9NjPCz7Fqkfkke4xmo3szxPMExc8v_qCc5eKDFS0L_4/s640/LR2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>he coffered ceilings over the dining area are a nice feature, although I would have liked to seen them with painted recesses. The living room area - which is really quite small for a 5000+ sq. ft. house - is anchored by a bound sisal rug and the adjacent dining room area has a wool or silk Oushak Rug. I love the spindle chair with blue upholstery in the living room area and the orange leather chair ads a nice pop of color and warmth. I'm not sure what I think about the curved pieces on either side of the fireplace. Everything is so right and square in this plan - they almost seem out of place? What do you think? </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">O</span></span></b>f course, I can't not mention the painting over the fireplace - which totally hits the SGG nail of the head. It's very reminiscent of a Kenton Nelson painting, however, I don't think it is. I've tried to find out who the artist is (not Rockwell or Hopper either), but have come up blank. So, if you know - do tell us! But, it's the perfect complement to this ocean view Malibu home. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhesHqdT3JZ4qLSkpcWQ2YjrOIFVVcN9reasqoVhXAGWykNC1cU56hZQPO1suknjNRxm62utAXDWihPiOOYCWiz1AiE63F41r2Q-D-GHDR4zsx1WR_YqIUyvjGpMbohsun6L273I9b3tGTz/s1600/LR3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhesHqdT3JZ4qLSkpcWQ2YjrOIFVVcN9reasqoVhXAGWykNC1cU56hZQPO1suknjNRxm62utAXDWihPiOOYCWiz1AiE63F41r2Q-D-GHDR4zsx1WR_YqIUyvjGpMbohsun6L273I9b3tGTz/s640/LR3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I</span></span></b>t's always hard to tell in celebrity real estate listings how much of the accessories are really those of the owners, or are props for staging purposes. There are visible family photos in the bookshelves. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEZi3IOKZtLAoIWh32vpuCbMKSeh9lWuIQyS1feLQMSj8ZT-s6jnNG897baRct85ePoBU1tu55LXUiH26-jSQUYO_CJvpu0cYYqZMsus_yk1h5eOpfgUJniglfOiyRnvddiRuBLGdUQd_/s1600/DR+Kitch+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEZi3IOKZtLAoIWh32vpuCbMKSeh9lWuIQyS1feLQMSj8ZT-s6jnNG897baRct85ePoBU1tu55LXUiH26-jSQUYO_CJvpu0cYYqZMsus_yk1h5eOpfgUJniglfOiyRnvddiRuBLGdUQd_/s640/DR+Kitch+1.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>hrough the dining area, we can see into the kitchen. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgMxuezcItgZ7L2iTGzp2eYPFIko2giQDanu9rENCtkpeJ6aNp-2PyOkIcsLmBhOJcJHroozVoPNHPv4nEE21z3V52IIg4mLBa_3-JC_x4hvw2izVzoMoqlG7VIwwAvHLzUKuals53PUd/s1600/Kithen+3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgMxuezcItgZ7L2iTGzp2eYPFIko2giQDanu9rENCtkpeJ6aNp-2PyOkIcsLmBhOJcJHroozVoPNHPv4nEE21z3V52IIg4mLBa_3-JC_x4hvw2izVzoMoqlG7VIwwAvHLzUKuals53PUd/s640/Kithen+3.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">V</span></span></b>ery pretty, generic almost with its marble counters, subway tiled walls, painted board ceilings, white cabinets. Very lovely and not ostentatious at all. Love the pendants!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtt981xdymY8f6SySnMegAR2Sf4jQNysnbzrhMRL7iFMV0uCVb9iTatuw7S0C5fJClDa0dJdB9mLPsqmGzL0673necaa6bwjQsRnoVKKAEhy-NZnsvwmCjtCtBo2HNphNcMcf906Qj4n_H/s1600/Kitchen+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtt981xdymY8f6SySnMegAR2Sf4jQNysnbzrhMRL7iFMV0uCVb9iTatuw7S0C5fJClDa0dJdB9mLPsqmGzL0673necaa6bwjQsRnoVKKAEhy-NZnsvwmCjtCtBo2HNphNcMcf906Qj4n_H/s640/Kitchen+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">W</span></span></b>hat's with the accessories all lined up like little soldiers on the long counter on the left below? A little too "proppy" but then these are for real estate purposes. What do you think of the tiny amounts of deep yellow wall paint? On the one hand, it seems a bit silly to paint such a small amount of wall space, but on the other, it goes with the informal family room off to the side, so I suppose that was the reasoning. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHBnYee0W0U7f6tDR08Bc_B67oDBIBAO3Hez3goU2jX8u_lEq3c9eK2IUfMRCdvLKHB9XBI1oKujVsyzEUINqSNhB5iXJbrRuxS-guhtf9auk0CFU-q4TiFnV_nxKWT-9qxCJCb4NOWRQ/s1600/Kitchen+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHBnYee0W0U7f6tDR08Bc_B67oDBIBAO3Hez3goU2jX8u_lEq3c9eK2IUfMRCdvLKHB9XBI1oKujVsyzEUINqSNhB5iXJbrRuxS-guhtf9auk0CFU-q4TiFnV_nxKWT-9qxCJCb4NOWRQ/s640/Kitchen+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">B</span></span></b>elow is the family room, which is in soft apricot tones on the upholstery - tying it into the spots of deeper orange in the living room. The walls are a deep yellow. As an East Coast girl, I'm surprised by the gas fireplaces in the living room and the family room. But, perhaps that's a Cali thing? Or, the owners didn't want the mess of logs and soot. The whole place is quite spotless, owning to the fact it's relatively new and has an owner who likely requires order and cleanliness in his life. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>I</b></span> like the little touches of the fabric panels inside the upper cabinets. This really is a very comfy looking room. The family room and breakfast nook look out over the back yard patio, pool and to the Pacific ocean in the distance. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj10Y1FbWcfnXgsSLBVmhmDHO99C7qo0AwYyqyMS69w_6kVveuS6xxXPVzq8kuPtWpFIXPFHlBIvVr6d77WOu7bZzmw4ePAIDdRvPfZVLzjpzrLh_UVVqatKQnRhajReA6WZa5OyeVY6OUQ/s1600/FR+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj10Y1FbWcfnXgsSLBVmhmDHO99C7qo0AwYyqyMS69w_6kVveuS6xxXPVzq8kuPtWpFIXPFHlBIvVr6d77WOu7bZzmw4ePAIDdRvPfZVLzjpzrLh_UVVqatKQnRhajReA6WZa5OyeVY6OUQ/s640/FR+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>he home theater. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPm4U4Qwq8lnpDnYeolR5i4Vz1eClCgwpAEYAXS-0YFgUGmwxd71dTv2IPLs_0L7eCAr5rA5-RtFnQ1wrSkk_TwwGk1va2__ozByc79QwitM6dEbUlASVkpwgHP0pcz4BcIz5-6naTCsC/s1600/Home+Theater+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPm4U4Qwq8lnpDnYeolR5i4Vz1eClCgwpAEYAXS-0YFgUGmwxd71dTv2IPLs_0L7eCAr5rA5-RtFnQ1wrSkk_TwwGk1va2__ozByc79QwitM6dEbUlASVkpwgHP0pcz4BcIz5-6naTCsC/s640/Home+Theater+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>he upstairs gallery, overlooking the living room, has two small seating areas on either end, which lead into the bedroom areas. Love the wide plank, rough hewn dark floors! This seating area is outside what appears to be the master bedroom. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media3.onsugar.com/files/2012/01/02/2/192/1922398/9992938baffe8119_Screen_shot_2012-01-10_at_12.48.42_PM.preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media3.onsugar.com/files/2012/01/02/2/192/1922398/9992938baffe8119_Screen_shot_2012-01-10_at_12.48.42_PM.preview.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A</span></span></b>nd the view from the other side of the gallery looking towards the blue master bedroom. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEZi3IOKZtLAoIWh32vpuCbMKSeh9lWuIQyS1feLQMSj8ZT-s6jnNG897baRct85ePoBU1tu55LXUiH26-jSQUYO_CJvpu0cYYqZMsus_yk1h5eOpfgUJniglfOiyRnvddiRuBLGdUQd_/s1600/DR+Kitch+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2012/01/02/2/192/1922794/03e87f87003b70ae_Screen_shot_2012-01-10_at_12.49.03_PM.preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2012/01/02/2/192/1922794/03e87f87003b70ae_Screen_shot_2012-01-10_at_12.49.03_PM.preview.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEZi3IOKZtLAoIWh32vpuCbMKSeh9lWuIQyS1feLQMSj8ZT-s6jnNG897baRct85ePoBU1tu55LXUiH26-jSQUYO_CJvpu0cYYqZMsus_yk1h5eOpfgUJniglfOiyRnvddiRuBLGdUQd_/s1600/DR+Kitch+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>he master has a fabulous ocean view, with its own private deck. Talking about bringing the outside in with the bright white millwork and bedding mixed with the blue walls. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEZi3IOKZtLAoIWh32vpuCbMKSeh9lWuIQyS1feLQMSj8ZT-s6jnNG897baRct85ePoBU1tu55LXUiH26-jSQUYO_CJvpu0cYYqZMsus_yk1h5eOpfgUJniglfOiyRnvddiRuBLGdUQd_/s1600/DR+Kitch+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rRMd4Q1pWgbCNC-K5EpWaBqjwgwh9fBm9-PT3-47I0wArKrhIO0-Z62bfaaVMdly82kZEbKg8x6GkHBw1BHQSLkrOPiJRxbWb2_xQMDd_YdLxTacEvrMT98jhESoY97i2AOrp-HSIZTg/s1600/Bedroom+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rRMd4Q1pWgbCNC-K5EpWaBqjwgwh9fBm9-PT3-47I0wArKrhIO0-Z62bfaaVMdly82kZEbKg8x6GkHBw1BHQSLkrOPiJRxbWb2_xQMDd_YdLxTacEvrMT98jhESoY97i2AOrp-HSIZTg/s640/Bedroom+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A</span></span></b>nd here is the only other bedroom shown on the real estate listing. The couple has three grown children in their twenties. This looks to be a guest room.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQQQa558QZNm_Bw5QNO2zbHOBFZ-dkmxumqJmjdu6GhNvcC_TaskKe3Fo7ZtLvZ7ZVIdvwAGmXpWOFWpTDE-k6pdqb228jOcjETLDckeNMkL9YD-T8HoGphmeKUUkmWknZSxdyvDGtNto/s1600/Yellow+BR+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQQQa558QZNm_Bw5QNO2zbHOBFZ-dkmxumqJmjdu6GhNvcC_TaskKe3Fo7ZtLvZ7ZVIdvwAGmXpWOFWpTDE-k6pdqb228jOcjETLDckeNMkL9YD-T8HoGphmeKUUkmWknZSxdyvDGtNto/s640/Yellow+BR+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A</span></span></b>nd, we finally come out of doors. The house features an outdoor fireplace, kitchen and pool.Oh, and a view. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rKPLL0THpQY601-4X1e2U14FsBGR6XA-buzlxoQtWbJTZelNkEVMniU3gwYvQ7CxYi4_kqowug7uAQ0isQ2r47dHL8bV_tqo9afpk6BsvekEokgoLc7kj3CUJCZAT-LqT87lR_H68TUc/s1600/Ext+back+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rKPLL0THpQY601-4X1e2U14FsBGR6XA-buzlxoQtWbJTZelNkEVMniU3gwYvQ7CxYi4_kqowug7uAQ0isQ2r47dHL8bV_tqo9afpk6BsvekEokgoLc7kj3CUJCZAT-LqT87lR_H68TUc/s640/Ext+back+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">M</span></span></b>ore pops of orange in the jaunty orange umbrella.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1-iuWag1J3NAyTQG039GZTSUUdZCZKFsP9c84P0VxMf7ExcqT0bZ6brjynjF07eUSMeTlKM8V3n7uLDDpiLv2DEbMapDsw9RMawja72XzKzbhPsFlZfB0RhYXjZGUg3UKv4CSt6ayiSu_/s1600/Ext+outdoor+kitchen+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1-iuWag1J3NAyTQG039GZTSUUdZCZKFsP9c84P0VxMf7ExcqT0bZ6brjynjF07eUSMeTlKM8V3n7uLDDpiLv2DEbMapDsw9RMawja72XzKzbhPsFlZfB0RhYXjZGUg3UKv4CSt6ayiSu_/s640/Ext+outdoor+kitchen+1.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>here is also a guest house/cabana that overlooks the pool. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie12.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I </span></span></b>really love that there is quite a lot of land, considering the location. While this house is not out in the middle of nowhere, there is a sense of privacy in the back yard. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHSMBmKzl9GurhhQbwHwsghox5-yWLZx_IioBafBJ_jMUsoUhvivrNme7HO1DL9o3MzdzRng1fGUdlnI8umlC9AUrztgCDx6z5dY_ri9RjHk03ZCYK6bliV5pbUwXC6vY0XV1i_g7z48R3/s1600/Pool+House+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHSMBmKzl9GurhhQbwHwsghox5-yWLZx_IioBafBJ_jMUsoUhvivrNme7HO1DL9o3MzdzRng1fGUdlnI8umlC9AUrztgCDx6z5dY_ri9RjHk03ZCYK6bliV5pbUwXC6vY0XV1i_g7z48R3/s640/Pool+House+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I</span></span></b> feel like Jack and Diane are going to come walking down the beach at any moment... Wrong ocean, but you get the idea. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-realty/images/listing_photos/275_howie20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span></b>he satellite views of the house show how close by the neighbors really are.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJacSqLGBe4PHGGE7-0bMv3EisGjqL2LSMY6H7UfI7WHoL-Bx0OVxmizJ_-NYBScDTb8FaVkUUbe6mpu_cxbaZDijo_BdHlMidCMpD_sIFXfOCh-_plj8FdqBWi_NVexG5vuSqbFj-SVtk/s1600/Satellite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJacSqLGBe4PHGGE7-0bMv3EisGjqL2LSMY6H7UfI7WHoL-Bx0OVxmizJ_-NYBScDTb8FaVkUUbe6mpu_cxbaZDijo_BdHlMidCMpD_sIFXfOCh-_plj8FdqBWi_NVexG5vuSqbFj-SVtk/s1600/Satellite.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A</span></span></b> house with a view... It's not too close to the water, but the view is sure nice!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTrEU3EFlEq-xt8jAd2uitvLDpl522c9uc_O2sWKDCZISbGrneEtdyD_ShqpC-v88bw31Np04KgEYS4T-xfu8LEfQHpshYjPjjEJC83EPlqIua7r4LDoAhTrJDl8QyfkPXQwS1BMaDE3ur/s1600/Satellite+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTrEU3EFlEq-xt8jAd2uitvLDpl522c9uc_O2sWKDCZISbGrneEtdyD_ShqpC-v88bw31Np04KgEYS4T-xfu8LEfQHpshYjPjjEJC83EPlqIua7r4LDoAhTrJDl8QyfkPXQwS1BMaDE3ur/s640/Satellite+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span></span>he real estate agents are <a href="http://www.pritchett-rapf.com/realestate/listing-275-6950-dume-drive-malibu-ca/" target="_blank">Pritchett-Rapf</a>. <br /><br /><table border="0"><tbody><tr><td><ul id="top_left"><li class="wpr-address">Address: 6950 Dume Drive</li><li class="wpr-city">City: Malibu</li><li class="wpr-state">State: CA</li><li class="wpr-zip">Zip: 90265</li><li class="wpr-country">Country: United States</li><li class="wpr-neighborhood">Neighborhood: Point Dume</li><li class="wpr-beds">Beds: 6</li><li class="wpr-baths">Baths: 7</li><li class="wpr-year_built">Year Built: 2008</li></ul></td> <td><ul id="top_right"><li class="wpr-garage_size">Garage Size: 3-car</li><li class="wpr-square_feet">Square Feet: 5,936</li><li class="wpr-lot_size">Lot Size: 1.04 acres</li><li class="wpr-status">Status: Active</li><li class="wpr-mls_number">MLS Number: 11-565425</li></ul></td> </tr></tbody></table><ul id="center"><li class="wpr-full_description">Full Description: Located in the prestigious Point Dume area, this Nantucket masterpiece was exquisitely crafted by renowned architect Douglas Burdge. With panoramic Santa Monica Bay ocean views, this stately residence sits on over a flat acre with expansive lawns, huge outdoor patio, and gorgeous pool. Unveiled in 2009, the home boasts 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, plus an office, theatre, gym, 4 fireplaces, and pool/guesthouse. Crafted with the finest of finishes, the timeless architectural-style weds both an elegant sophistication and casual seaside living with a seamless indoor/outdoor flow. Walking distance to Malibu's most pristine and secluded beaches, and to the sought after Point Dume Marine Science Elementary School. One of the finest homes ever conceived in this exclusive seaside community.</li></ul><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">A</span></span></b>nd, have you figured out the owner? It's none other than Howie Mandel. Are you surprised? I have to admit that I was. He wouldn't have struck me as someone who would live in such a refined, traditional manner. But, he was in the home decorating industry for a while and he and his high school sweet heart wife Terry Soil have been married since 1980. So, he is, in fact, very much a stable family man. Add to that he's a well know germaphobe and suffers from adult ADHD and OCD - so a clean, nearly sterile home is definitely not a surprise. He doesn't like to touch people and I recall in an interview he mentioned that he actually lives in the guest house on his property so he can control his environment.  Must be a difficult way to live, but his family seems to have figured it out.<br /><br />There is a full slide show of the house <a href="http://www.pointdumehome.com/#/dume-drive/" target="_blank">here</a> that includes a few more images I didn't use above. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I hope</span></span></b> you have a wonderful weekend!<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I</span></span></b>f you would like my help on your design project, I would love to chat with you! Please <a href="mailto:linda.m.merrill@gmail.com">email me</a>. Thanks!<a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml"><img alt="" src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/feed-icon16x16.png" style="border: 0; vertical-align: middle;" /></a> <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blogspot/EQjz" rel="alternate" type="application/rss+xml">Subscribe to ::Surroundings::</a>

Friday Pretty: Nantucket meets Malibu

T his fantastic house went on the market in December 2011. It is owned by a well-known comedian and I'll be honest, I was a bit surprise...

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