Florence, Italy

Train ride was filled with Tuscan sunflowers

Ponte Vecchio

Locks of Love

Duomo (yes, I climbed to the top!)

The original microwave

Florence at night

Bedside Table & New Hardware

I have been looking for little pieces here and there to complete my cozy little nook. That included a bedside table for my side, however I didn't want to spend a fortune, I don't especially like matching pieces, and I wanted to find something with a little (or a lot) of personality. Wandering Eastern Market (see post here!), I ran across a wonderful find at a wonderful price. The color may remain for now... Wilder has taken a liking to it ... but it may change in the future when my creative frenzy takes over. For now, I'll settle with my beautiful new hardware from anthropologie, a gift from my dearest mama.

Anthropologie Furniture

Received a lovely email from Anthropologie yesterday, showcasing some fantastic furniture. Fingers crossed that one day I either a) can afford the furniture someday,
or b) can spot some thrifty twin and then use crafty skills to polish it to new. See
the cute lil porcelain cat on the Chroma Console? Looks like Sebastian...

Chroma Console

Hildago Bed

Rhys Chair

Wave Dining Table

Hermann Hesse Print from Lugano, Switzerland

I was lucky enough to find a small village at the top of a hill on the last day of my Lugano explorations. After creeping through the narrow and deserted streets, I found a hidden gem: The Hermann Hesse Exhibit. What an extraordinary life this man led. Please take the time to read about him.

After walking through and feeling an overwhelming sense of inspiration, I purchased this print; Herman Hesse was not only a writer (remember Siddhartha??), but a profound artist. I glance at this piece every day in hopes to be filled with that same warm inspiration I found in Lugano.

Lugano, Switzerland

While traveling, a friend whispered that she would be in Lugano, Switzerland for the summer and extended an invite. Of course I graciously accepted. However, I had to give up visiting Milan. After you see these pictures though, you will agree with me that it was a phenomenal decision. I was only there 2.5 days, but the sunset is burned into my memory forever.

It was Swiss day on the last day...

Done and done.

I reached into my purse and found three currencies and sea glass from Nice.

As always, all artwork/photography posted on The Humblebee Hive blog are property and under copyright of Ashley Stuart. I am honored when my artwork is used for inspiration, so shoot me an email or comment below sharing the inspiration you've gathered from this blog. Please contact for more information on purchase and/or public use.

Thrifty Treasures: U & 14th

Filigree "A" Necklace  •  

Drafting Table  •  Miss Pixie's

Beautiful, Simple,Hhandmade Ring  •  Ginger Root

Leather Shoes  •  Rock It Again

David Amoroso  •  Miss Pixie's

Gorgeous Colors  •  Zina Boutique

Digging the Stripes  •  Zina Boutique

Latest Home Purchase

Latest purchase on the home front... a beautifully embroidered throw pillow now living nicely on the bed. The warm hues bring a real rush of color to the light grey comforter and white throw blanket. This pillow caught my eye for one main reason: my Nana (aka Great Grandma)... she had embroidered decorations all over her home, from framed artwork to throw pillows. This purchase is for you Nana!

This pillow was also featured on day 350 on Humblebee's Project 366, a photo a day from my life in the District.

New Style of Toms

I hope you're as pumped as me! I'm already signed up to receive the official notice! Read up on how Toms is involved in our world community here. It may entice you to buy a pair of these beauties when they arrive.

Nice Farmers Market

During my time in Nice, France I suddenly realized that the English language adopted quite a few french words and, from then on, the signs all over the city would make me chuckle... Nice Market, Nice Chauffeur, Nice Sex Shop, Nice Hotel... see the trend?

I accidentally stumbled upon this nice Nice farmers market while trying to find the ocean. Best mistake of the trip! I actually walked through three times in one trip just to make sure I was taking it all in. The food is beautiful, with vibrant colors; the people are friendly and welcoming; the overall size and community of the market was inspiring; and naturally, it all tasted wonderful. And yes, I smelled every single one of the soaps below...

As always, all artwork/photography posted on The Humblebee Hive blog are property and under copyright of Ashley Stuart. I am honored when my artwork is used for inspiration, so shoot me an email or comment below sharing the inspiration you've gathered from this blog. Please contact for more information on purchase and/or public use.