April, which brought two deaths in the family and some problems at work, was not a good month for me. It’s why I’m only just updating my “I Can’t Get Through…” list (over there on the sidebar), and why I’m so glad it’s May.

It’s at this time of the year that our garden looks most beautiful, with flowers in bloom and grass so green it looks like a picture from my home office window. This inevitably makes me want to bring some of the outdoors inside, drawing me to things like these Tree Oil Lamp Shadow Projectors.

These oil lamps cast shadows on your walls- and as the flame flickers, the shadow moves like a light breeze is rustling its branches. Available in Nest, Magnolia, and Pine for $48.00 at Uncommon Goods »

Most coffee aficionados agree (myself included!) that french-pressed coffee is the way to go.

This 8-cup coffee press by Laroma is on sale right now at Macy’s for $14.99 (down from $40!) So you have no more excuses for bad coffee…

That’s right, it’s not long now until Sex & the City: the Movie hits the big screen! I’m excited. Can you tell?

This is such a pretty bowl, I don’t know any house-proud mom who won’t love it. Wheel-thrown and carved from white stoneware, this Cherry Blossom Bowl from The Artful Home is finished with a green glaze and food safe. A little bit pricey, but the kind of gift she’ll keep (probably out in the open!)

$300 at The Artful Home »

That’s right, it’s time for yet another dress alert. I just couldn’t pass up this oh so pretty Slide Rule Dress from Anthropologie!

It’s edged with plum trim and appliqued crochet, ties at the back, and hits below the knee. Lined in cotton, and very flattering!

Available in sizes 0-14 for $168 at Anthropologie.com »