Page 154 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2016

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She describes her home as Parisian whimsical. “I find something I like and I buy it, then figure out where to use it,” she said. “I like bright colors and I like Dr. Seuss.”
That affinity for color is evident from the green walls of the foyer to the different colors used on three of the den’s walls to the green corduroy sofa with red pillows. The Sherwin Williams paint colors include pale aqua, brick red and a shade of green called Rye Grass. Other cheerful shades of green, coral and orange brighten the walls of the kitchen, breakfast nook and dining room. The base
of the kitchen island is painted green while the walls are Sunset — a warm pumpkin shade — and the pendant lights over the sink are coral. Drab colors are not allowed! Framed pig sculptures wearing Santa hats add a happy touch over the door leading into the formal dining room. “They wear berets at other times of the year,” Darlene said.
The Petersens’ three grandchildren always get a gift with a Dr. Seuss theme. Darlene sews and one year she made three quilts with a print featuring Dr. Seuss characters and each with a different color backing. Her sewing ability is also seen in place mats, napkins and pillows throughout the home.
The local design team of Peggy Ryland and Mike
Morken orchestrated the holiday décor for the Petersens. It took three years to find and buy the theme’s numerous assorted ornaments. They not only adorn the trees but add Seussical touches on tables, counter tops, lamps, light fixtures and even towel bars in the bathrooms. There’s no shortage of bright reminders of these delightful childhood favorites. The den’s mantel piece is an especially outstanding creation of purple net fabric with white lights and Grinch ornaments. In addition to the ornaments, Dr. Seuss-inspired cups, bowls and drinking glasses have been collected to add to the theme.
Year round pieces in the den include a footstool covered in an owl print, a carved wooden alligator over the opening into the sun room and a blue children’s bench with Sesame Street character Bert painted on it. This cheerful home also features works of local artists Spencer Grey and Elizabeth Huffmaster.
The sun room’s Christmas tree is purple and also leans, true to Dr. Seuss style. The Grinch’s green legs stick out from back of the tree where he most surely is up to no good.
The Petersens met at Keesler Air Force Base when both were in the service. Since that time, Darlene has been
a realtor, nurse and is now a nurse practitioner. Bob recently retired as a simulator trainer for the Hurricane Hunters’ C-130 airplanes.
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