Wishing you a Fourth of July filled with pride, honor, and lots of fun!

If you have a hallway table or bedroom dresser that could use some sprucing up, the table vignette may be the way to go. A vignette is simply an embellishment that consists of different elements arranged harmoniously, from blooming flowers to vintage picture frames. The exact contents of the vignette are up to you (consider shopping around at thrift stores), but there are a few rules you should follow when you actually go to create the vignette. Here are four of the top suggestions, gleaned from the internet's interior design experts.

1. Pick a focal point. Before you randomly start arranging knick-knacks on a coffee table, pick an element that will anchor your vignette. For example, it might be a vintage vase filled with flowers or artsy twigs. It could be a pretty picture frame with a personal photo or postcard. Regardless of what it is, make sure the focal point meshes with the colors and style of the rest of your home.
2. Let light win over dark. If you don't already have a focal point in mind, consider using a cool lamp. When creating a vignette, it's imperative that you put it somewhere where the light can accentuate it—and what better way to do that than to make the light a part of it?
3. Use the rule of threes. Interior design experts often adhere to the rule of threes, which essentially states that when grouping design elements, you should opt for odd numbers over even numbers. It creates a focal point that naturally draws the eye.
4. Create depth and texture. You should also vary the arrangement of your vignette elements in order to intrigue onlookers. Instead of placing each piece in a straight line, pull some forward and push others back. Pick candlesticks or books of varying heights. Choose different textures. This will keep your vignette interesting and eye-catching.

Creating a Well-Styled Table Vignette [Jenna Burger]
8 Tips for Making Beautiful Vignettes [HGTV]
Rule of Three and Odd Numbers [Cecilia Walker Design]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Luci Correia

Craving some outdoor adventure in Austin? You won’t find many places more exciting than the Barton Creek Greenbelt. This popular hiking, biking, and running trail winds its way around the city through lush, green areas, across rolling rivers, and even right in front of hidden caves that many locals don’t even know about.

This weekend, set out on foot or hop on your trusty bike to explore the miles and miles of trails around the beloved outdoor space. Individual portions are well marked to keep you right on track, whether you’re looking for a short 2-mile hike or to spend the day attempting to make your way around the entire belt. Stop in at a natural swimming hole to cool off from the Texas heat, or even hike to a waterfall and admire the surrounding scenery.

Barton Creek Greenbelt
3755-B Capital of Texas Highway
Austin, TX 78704
www.ci.austin.tx.us

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr ptc24