Notes from A Cottage Industry

Celebrating Home

   

     While in Portland last weekend. we managed to hit Powell's Books,the best bookstore on the planet (anyway the best one I've ever been in)  They have it all. New and used, buy or trade.In the store, or online. I was in absolute heaven in the home decor section, and I didn't come away empty handed.
I have been wanting this book for forever, and I found a used copy in perfect condition. It was priced less than half off.

It's put out by Seasons of Canon Falls and it is laid out by seasons and holidays. Oh, such inspiration!
With each page I got more ideas (and I got them all at more than half off, people!)

Whether it's summer or spring, or Christmas time, the ides amazed me and inspired me to get moving. *sigh* If only there were more hours in my day.

Inspiration Friday-First impressions

    

     We're talkin' curb appeal, baby. The ability for your home to say, "Welcome, leave your worries at the door, friendly folks live here" just by a glance at the front porch. Now, that's what I'm talkin' about, people. Just look at the top picture of that charming front porch, what with it's quaint screen door, American flag and the fabulous cone basket of flowers. Aah, I just know someone sweet lives here.

How about this stone cottage with the amazing stone fence, huh? My cottage has some stone work on the front of it, but it's not nearly so grand. It goes about two and a half feet up from the ground.(picture your knee cap height.) Someday, when my ship comes in, I'm going to add to it, and create a bit more ambiance, maybe even add a charming  low stone fence like the one pictured here, with a sweet little gate to welcome one and all to the jewel of Norman Drive. *sigh* I think I just might start a coin jar for this very purpose.

Another great close up shot from Romantic Homes a few years back, showcasing the charm of shutters, along with a fairy door. (Anyway that's what I think it is, don't you?) It makes me want to add a fairy door to my cottage in some charming spot.

Lastly, how about this charming cottage look? So perfect. (Very Susan Branch, no?) The rose bushes, (which I now adore with all my heart since moving to my dear cottage) the white picket fence, the shutters, the pergola, the window boxes. Oh, just the warm, fuzzy feel of it all.
     *sigh* Total inspiration for a summer weekend.

Willow Nest adventure continues to Stars Hollow..er, Camas

    

...or, "A bird in the hand is worth two still in the store."
     (**note: If you don't watch the Gilmore Girls religiously, I apologize. You might not really understand this post)
     I promised I'd share some pictures from the stop in Stars Hollow Camas, so here they are. Well, I didn't intend to, but I came away with lots of "nesting" items. By now you all know that I adore nests, and birds, and that goes with them. When we got out of our cars at Stars Hollow Camas after the wonderful morning at the Willow Nest event we all stood and stared at the beauty and charm that is 4th street , Camas. Literally. We just all stood there, taking in that quaintness and ambiance. We all agreed we could live right there, even Kelly, who did live in Camas for a while and never knew this little hidden piece of heaven existed!
      Christopher Mr. Deb took some pictures and then we headed up the street to a wonderful little pizza place for lunch, talking non stop. (just like Lorelei, Rory, Miss Patti and Suki) It wasn't Luke's, but it had a charm to it all the same. Then, it was time to  browse through the Dragonfly  darling shops. (By the way, the only thing missing from dear sweet 4th Street is a Cupcakery., or a bakery, or Taylor's Ice Cream shop for that matter. Hmm,come to think of it, Stars Hollow could use a Cupcakery too.)

      I found nests and birds everywhere we went. So many in fact, that  the bride-to-be finally forbid for buying any more, lest I start to become known as "that-weird-lady-up-the-street-with-all-the-bird-junk." (Alright already, I got it. I may have been a bit excessive, but I did put back the bird embellished mirror and the box of faux robins eggs, remember? That's gotta count for something)

     In the end I left with bird and nest spreaders (are those the cutest things you've ever seen?! Why, it makes me want to make some toast, and I don't even have a toaster) a darling box of candle matches, and the absolute sweetest  garden stake weather vane of a mama bird with, count 'em, three babies in her nest. (I mean, of course you see why I had to have that.)
*sigh* such a perfect day. The only thing missing was Paul Anka.

More inspiration courtesy of the Willow Nest

I'm so excited. (I feel like I say that a lot lately, but I mean it.)My garden is going to new levels!
     I have a side area to the left of my patio and a yard that was originally a..dog run. Ha! That's a laugh. Mr. Bear and Moose have absolutely no concept of those two words when used together.
      The area is separated from the main yard by an ever so unattractive chain link fence. Far too much trouble to remove. When I first began gardening in my backyard, I decided to camouflage the chain link fence by planting ivy every few feet, watering it, praying over it, and willing it to grow, grow fast, and cover the dreaded chain link. It's working, growing too slowly for impatient me, but it is filling in the fence, inch by inch.
     So, what to do with the actual area within the "dog run" space? Well, I am so glad you asked, darlings. Why, it is to be my oh, so terribly fabulous vegetable and herb garden, of course! You see, when we were at the Willow Nest event last weekend I decided to steal borrow an absolutely brilliant idea to make cottage style raised beds just like Linda's. Here are her raised beds....

    Perfect! So full of cottage charm, with the painted troughs and the vegetables spilling all about. Oh, I love it! I tell you, being on that lush beautiful property was a true inspiration.
     I know these troughs cost a pretty penny new, so I posted a want ad on Craigslist asking if anyone had some they wanted to sell cheap. Bingo. Within an hour I had a guy willing to unload some for $20 each. To make things even sweeter, he turned out to be a neighbor of one of my friends at work! (I do live in the "biggest little city" after all)
     Tonight we'll be picking them up and putting them in my new raised bed garden area, where I will drill a few holes in the bottoms, paint them up (robin's egg blue don'tcha know) and get ready for my little veggies and herbs to go in.
     *sigh* Is there anything more fun than gardening in the summer time? I don't think so.

**just had to add: Deb's got more about our fabulous trip on her Blog today too! Check it out...

Treasures from Willow Nest

     I got some wonderful things at the Barn Sale. (tomorrow I'll try and share my treasures from Stars Hollow Camas Antiques!)
     You  have to look closely to see the details, (or click on the picture to enlarge it) but that's a charming necklace made by Linda from the Willow Nest. It even says "nest" on it, see that? Oh, how I love it. Simple and charming and oh so sweet. (and you know I am oh, so into nesting these days!)
     I actually got two necklaces at the Barn Sale.

     This other one didn't photograph well, but it is on a chocolate ribbon and has a bunch of sweet charms. It was made by yet another crafter.

     I got a darling nursery rhyme card, complete with the history of how the rhyme came to be on the back,and some galvanzied little buckets on a tray (not sure what I am gonna use them for just yet) and my all time favorite find of the day...the nest picture to hang in my guest bathroom. It's done with a wallpaper matte and some raffia mingled in. *sigh* Just the perfect keepsake from my trip to meet my Bliss Sisters.

**Edited to ad: You need to go to Deb's Blog today to see so many more great pictures of our adventure!

Update on the fire at South Lake Tahoe

     First off,I'd like to  thank those of you that are asking about the terrible fire burning at South Shore Lake Tahoe, where my daughter lives and works (The maid-of-honor) It means so much to know you care.It is quite tragic at this point.The high school at South shore was a concern, but reportedly now is safe, so we're just not sure at this point.          
     My daughter called me at lunchtime Monday to say how chaotic it is up there. Harrahs was sending 1,000 box lunches to the firefighters. They are trying to figure out just exactly how many displaced employees they will have and how it will affect their bottom line putting them ALL up in temp housing in their hotels (they own Harrahs, Harveys and Bill's at South Shore)
     Just terrible, and the news  says it was a man made fire, so I pray it was accidental and not arson.
     Again, Thanks for checking on us out here! Please keep our firefighters in your prayers.

A picture is worth a thousand words

...or at least I hope so. My gosh, I came back from my trip to PTown and the Willows Nest Barn Sale so inspired I couldn't even sleep last night. (I couldn't even decide what category to put this post under, so I listed all that even remotely applied.)And I took so many pictures I think it will take at least two days of posts to share them all! Where do I begin...?

The weather was fabulous Saturday. Not a rain cloud in the sky. (Please note the fabulous sky in the above photo as proof.)The crowd size at the Willows Nest Barn Sale was good. Crowded, but not overly so, (just enough to add that adrenaline rush that someone might beat you to something, right after you spot it, but before you can get to it)and everyone was so friendly. I mean, just the absolute nicest folks (which I have found seems to be the case all over Oregon and Washington) Nicest of all was the moment I got to meet up with my fellow Bliss Sisters. I was afraid I might not find them in the crowd, or that I wouldn't recognize them, but no, I picked them out of the crowd right away. Kindred spirits, one and all. It was a wonderful time meeting them in person. We laughed and chatted like we were old friends from school. (*sigh* it's actually too hard for me to describe in words just how good it felt to really meet them in person)

I absolutely hate having my picture taken worse than anything, but for this occasion I am going to share one.I have a terrible habit of scrutinizing my appearance in any and all photos, which is why I am rarely in one. Anyway, I'll leave it to you to guess which one I am! I will tell you this much- I really truly didn't know I had such a furrowed brown, and now I see firsthand that I simply must stop with that God-awful squinting, since it makes me appear constipated concerned,and exactly what is up with my hair?!(Hint: Really, I look so, so much younger and lovelier in person, tee hee.....I've had a tough year, allow me this one fantasy please.) Now back to the fabulous event....

     The property was amazing. (Yes, this is the view they enjoy from the back of the house...it's God's country for sure.)

As you can see, it's a big 'ol sprawl of land with an incredible view of the Columbia River and plenty of room for the booths to be spread out, not jammed up on one another.Here's the barn from outside, and some of the wonderful booths (Look at that umbrella!)

The cutest hand made signs, telling where the restrooms were, exit, etc... Oh,and the products and displays, aaa-mazing.


The whole event was simply off the hook with creativity and imagination. Sure, some darling antiques, but so much more than that. Quaint painted furniture pieces, hand made jewelry, and charming papercrafts.

(who knew tying jute around a stack of books could look so fabulous? I know now.)


Heck, even their price tags were so cute I had to take pictures. (Now that you see them, you see why I had to photograph them.)
Here are more Booth shots....

We came, we met, we shopped. It was a good thing, for sure. But it didn't end there.
Oh no, we all caravaned from the Willows Nest Barn Sale to a nearby estate sale, (and got some more fabulous finds there!)and then to the ever so lovely 4th Street in Camas, where we had lunch and shopped some more. My Bliss Sisters were as enthralled with dear sweet Camas as I am. Once again we hit Camas Antiques, followed by a trip to "Fancies" which carries some of Linda from the Willows Nest's things. Such a treat!

*sigh* this was such a wonderful trip, and it is a memory I will treasure always.

**Note: I forgot the Bliss Banners at the bride-to-be's home that I made for my friends, so those will now be going out to all three of them later today.

Words to live by (week 22)

In case you can't read it, the tag reads:                                FOLLOW YOUR BLISS AND THE UNIVERSE WILL OPEN DOORS FOR YOU WHERE THERE WERE ONLY WALLS. Joseph Campbell 1904-1981

*sigh* It all goes back to doing what we love, doesn't it?

Following our Bliss

You won't believe where I am today. I'm here. Yes! The bride to be is with me, and we are going to have a ball.

Oh, but wait, that's not the coolest part. The amazing thing about today is that I am finally meeting three of my long time internet friends,(kindred spirits for sure) Deb, Kelly and Dori there. We met back when Victoria magazine was still out, (1999? 2000?) and we all used to post on message boards for the magazine. When the magazine folded they began a new web spot online for many of us to meet, and we forged friendships through the years.

   We all adopted the word "Bliss" from Victoria magazine, so I thought it only appropriate to make them each a "Bliss" banner as a gift. If you check out their Blogs, you'll be able to tell which person I made each banner for, by the colors and prints. Ooh! I just can't wait to meet in person, and to shop the fabulous barn Sale!...and of course I'll be sharing pictures, come Monday! (maybe even later tonight, 'coz I'm not sure I can bear to wait that long...)

Inspiration Friday- cozy bedrooms

       A huge part of living a beautiful life is a cozy bedroom, don't you agree? Winter or summer, it needs to be oh, so  inviting. Like this one above, with the fabulous pillows and iron headboard. (and look at the neat postcards stuck to the wall near the window...too charming!) Or how about the one below, with the great architectural pieces on the wall above the wonderfully shabby iron bed...

A bed that's comfy and fluffy, with a featherbed and not one, but two dust ruffles, thankyouverymuch.

And how about the ultimate guest room that welcomes weary travelers with a stack of charming vintage suitcases at the foot of the bed?

Aah, I love them all.

A bit more of the patio livingroom-before and after

    I found the "Before" photos of the backyard, but for some reason I only have pictures of the patio. (These photos were taken by some Realtor long before I bought my cottage, and you can tell by the lack of rose bushes that it must have been winter time.)  Hmm, not much help for showing all the work I've done.Oh well. Here they are anyway. (I have removed the dead tree trunk in the middle of the yard that held one end of a hammock)

    Please excuse the hose all over the place and the left hand shutter not being hung. I was in the middle of all this when I realized how late it was, and I had to hop in the shower for work, so I just snapped these quick shots to share with you.I am still needing to remove the iron grill from the one back window also...

     Last night I got the coffee table and side table painted my favorite color- Robins egg blue. It matches the quilt accents very nicely.Now, all that's left to paint is the hutch.
     I am enjoying tending my garden more than I can tell you. I am out there each morning before I go to work, and each evening as well, watering and fertilizing and such. Instant gratification I tell you.

I have flowers in pots, around the patio, and around the yard. It is so gratifying!
Next summer I will tackle the front yard, which is smaller but needs some cottage touches as well. Oh, I can hardly wait!

summertime and the livin' is easy

        Hangin' out in my backyard. That's what I'm doing these days right after work. Tending to my flowers and dining outdoors. I got carried away the other night planting flowers and broke a sprinkler pipe. Sheesh. It's fixed now though and I am back in business.

     I promised I'd share the patio and backyard when it was completed, and it is very nearly there, so I'm giving you a little look-see at what has been going on back here. I also need to dig out the "Before" shots of the backyard from when I moved in...maybe I can find them tonight and share them tomorrow.

and of course, so many roses I can hardly believe it myself. *sigh*

  Of course I still have a Do-List a mile long (you know how I am) and I still plan to make a sign for above the Barbecue, plant flowers and a vine near the old bicycle, paint the coffee table a robin's egg blue (to go with the quilts)and paint the shutters a chocolate brown with creamy colored Fleur de lis on them...all before the fourth of July get together. I am loving this gardening stuff, and all that goes with it.(and you know I'll share pictures!)

     Aah, summertime. A charming backyard. What more could a girl ask for?

working on my web-boutique; input much appreciated!

     I know I haven't mentioned it in a little while, but I am still working on developing my website and online boutique. It's a long slow process, and I have so many ideas and plans! I'd love some input from you, sharing what kinds of things you'd like to see there.
     The picture above is of some of the pops I have been gathering for backdrops in my photo shoots of merchandise for sale in the online shop.
     I am very nearly ready to begin photographing my merchandise, so it shouldn't be too much longer now.
     This is a whole new adventure for me. I am having such fun creating the site; I hope I have not left anything out. There are so many great online shops (and I love online shopping!) so I want to be different, not to compete, but more to to add something a little bit different to the online shopping experience. What kinds of things would you like to see for sale online that you haven't been finding as of yet?
     So far I have the site broken into different areas, and I am planning on sharing ideas (Table scapes, entertaining ideas, unique uses for everyday accessories, caring for things like vintage linens and hardwood surfaces, organizing with style and charm) on the site as well as selling merchandise.
     There is a big focus on items for table settings and entertaining, seasonally as well as everyday looks, all with a charming vintage feel.
     When it's all done, I truly hope you'll find that I have created a shop that is unique and different, and that will inspire you to add charm to your everyday life.

mid week holiday

    Independence Day is on a Wednesday this year. No long weekend this time, just a nice day off, right smack in the middle of the week.
     I am dying to make the dessert on the cover of the latest issue of Living. It sounds easy and delicious, and it looks fabulously patriotic.(Actually there are quite few recipes in this issue that look yummy and patriotic too)
    I am thinking abut hosting a pot luck Barbecue for the fourth of July this year. (I think I will host it the night before, on the third so we can enjoy a late evening of chatting out in the yard on with the warm summer nights we've been having) My back yard is shaping up so nicely that I am wanting to show it off. I am still surprised that I have somehow turned into a gardener.
     I am starting to think about decorations (I am a nut for flags and anything else patriotic)and favors and such.Oh, and  I'd like to make some of the candle holders that Cindy shared. Such a nice touch.
    What are you planning for this year's mid week Independence Day? Let's inspire each other with some ideas!

Words to live by(week 21)

 

More silver linings

     Life is funny. I've said this before, but it's oh, so true. There is always a silver lining to every big black cloud.
      My Dad lives about four hours away from me. To say he is a creature of habit is an understatement. Over the past twenty some years that I've lived in Reno, we have talked on the phone pretty much every single Sunday at 8:30 in the morning. (it used to be 9:00 but changed into 8:30 at some point) For whatever reason, (kids, pets, life?) we managed to see each other in person only about every year and a half or more.
     Family has always meant everything to me, and since I became suddenly single it has become that much more important; a caring support system that kept me together through some pretty dark patches.

      I've seen my Dad twice already in the last six months, and I'll be spending Father's Day with him tomorrow, for the first time in longer than I am embarrassed to admit. It is going to be special, and we are both looking forward to it.
     Eight months ago I thought I had lost the only thing that mattered. Eight months later I have found that I have what matters, and then some.
*sigh* It's a silver lining.

Inspiration Friday- the Nell Hill's look

Today's inspiration comes fromthe Nell Hill's book, from the Nell Hill's store of Atchison Kansas, which is really more than one store.

     There are several books about decorating and entertaining with the "Nell Hill" look and I wanted to share a few.

     I love this fabulous bakers rack full of ivy greens and silver. I like collections anyway, but never thought of using that much plant accents in one area...love it!

    How about this silver tray with a pedstal on top, and nest and bird theme? So charming.

This table setting totally inspires me to think outside the box. I love the wire basket with the mixture of potted flowers and ceramics. Oh, and the layered dishes!

Now this last room is my favorite of all. Look how inviting that wicker chair is!! And I love the surprise of what all is on the hutch behind it....all of it inspired me to revamp the nooks and crannies in my cottage. *sigh*

All of the Nell Hill's books inspire me, and there is another new one out in the fall. Check them out if you haven't already. perfect reading for a night on the patio.

frosting color challenged

     I baked cupcakes yesterday. I had friends coming over last night and I wanted the blue frosting to match my kitchen. Basically that would be about a bajillion shades lighter than what I created. (Mmm hmm, see the photo below, and the color of the plate? Ya, that's the color I was attempting.)  I was shooting for a pale robin's egg blue frosting color for my roses, but missed it by about a mile and ended up with turquoise instead. Cute, just not what I was after.

  The trick with frosting colors is simple; less is more. Apparently I had a senior moment and forgot this rule.(I don't remember, can you have senior moments at 50?)
     I have now decided that I am going to bake cupcakes or cookies at least once a week and keep experimenting until I get this color right. (be prepared to see a lot of upcoming baking photos..)
    I prefer the powdered food colorings, but sometimes the cake supply shop only has the "other" kind. It's like a jell, and it's just so hard to get the colors right. Also, the longer the frosting sits, the more it seems to darken. That means, when the color looks a bit too light, it is probably exactly what I am looking for.   
     Oh well. They tasted yummy anyway.

The art of laundry

Oh. My. Gosh.
     Why didn't someone tell me there was an art to doing laundry? If I had only known, well, my life might be different today. OK, probably not, but gosh o' Pete, if there ever was a book written to get a person excited about starching and linen water, this. is. it. 
     It's called, appropriately enough, "Laundry- the spirit of keeping home." Wow. Say it out loud with me, people. "The spirit of keeping home." *sigh* That phrase says it all to me. Total nesting phrase is what that is. (Just the title makes me want to jump up and launder something)
    I feel half tempted to take off a vacation day to properly tend to my bed sheets. (Again, OK, probably not, but it does make tending to my bedsheets seem oh, so terribly romantic)
     The book tells stuff we all know already, yes, but more importantly, it shows (with photos even!) how to fold a fitted sheet so it looks like it was just pulled out of the package, has tips on hand washing items, and even aromatherapy information. I heard about this book from Anita, and was not going to buy it (A book on Laundry?!Oh, pul-eeeze, I certainly don't need it) but when I realized I could buy it used for a dollar fifty , well, I just caved.
     I'm so glad I did.
    Last night I coupled reading this incredibly inspiring book with using the new fabulous smelling laundry soap and fabric softener that Teresa shared with us all a while back (Lavender and vanilla!) and had myself a perfect Tuesday night while watching Gillmore Girls reruns at the same time. As I type this, it occurs to me that it may sound dull and dreary to some of you, (Maybe even pathetic?) but it was an example of me, living a beautiful life at it's finest, in my opinion.

Garage workshop

Garage: ga-rage; –noun
1. A building or indoor area for parking or storing motor vehicles.

Hmm, so that's what it was originally designed for. Who knew? OK, I have, on occasion,  used my garage here at the cottage for just that on and off since I moved here (every time I thought it might snow, for example) but that was always with just enough room to pull inside, sandwiched between multiple pieces of furniture at various stages of reinvention, and oodles and toodles of boxes of unpacked "stuff". While holding my breath, I'd open the driver's side door just enough to slide out and shimmy around the car to make my way into the house.
     Now that the Porch Sale has come and gone, (with all of the oodles and toodles of reinvented furniture now gone!)and the fact that almost all of the boxes are unpacked, I have room to park, and even waltz all around the perimeter of my giant SUV if I so desire, which I did once I pulled the car in last night. (Actually it was more of a very enthusiastic boot scoot and boogie) I also now have plenty of work room. It's really quite a good thing.

     I mean, cleaning, arranging and organizing a garage, well, it's spring cleaning taken to the next level, I tell you. (if you haven't tried this, you really should!) Talk about therapeutic. The feeling of total contentment and satisfaction of looking at a completely orderly, organized garage and workspace for my cottage absolutely amazes me. Who knew having such a spit-spot garage could be so fulfilling?

New old cupboard for my workroom

        I am getting ready to tackle my workroom here at my cottage.
       What? Oh, thanks for asking- No, I haven't finished painting all those kitchen cupboards....yet. As the words to live by said yesterday, I am struggling to make progress here, people. I like to think that it is one of the perks of living solo with two incredibly understanding dogs. I can finish painting them when I am ready to. You know, when the urge strikes me.  As of last night, half the cupboards are oak, and the other half are antiqued a nice shabby white, and the dogs don't seem to mind it a bit. I simply do not sweat the small stuff these days.
     Now, where was I going with all this? Oh, yes. I am about to tackle my workroom. (Then, I promise, I'm gonna wrap up that kitchen cabinet painting job and show pictures of the finished project. Really. Really.)
    You see, I spend so much time in my home office/studio/workroom that it is very important to me that it be inviting, and comfortable, but functional at the same time. (back to that livin' a beautiful life thing)  And of course, it has to be done on the non existent suddenly single budget.
     I already have pretty much everything to make this room a perfect haven for me to be creative- my old open top hutch, the used-to-be-on-my-deck-buffet-turned-worktable piece, curtains from my little shop at the mall, and of course, Dolly. (I just need to repaint everything the colors I want, and do some much needed organizing...er...cleaning...and such.)
     What I added to the list of items to complete my workroom from yard saling was the most fabulous chandelier, which I shared with you this past week,and now, this perfect shabby cupboard with workspace top.

I traded a piece that didn't sell at the Porch Sale for this little charmer at the consignment store on Saturday afternoon. The only thing better than a thrifted find, is a straight across trade. (That means it was totally free, baby!) All I need to do now is decide if I am going to paint this piece, or simply put a coat of sealer on it to protect it, and leave it as is. I am really kind of enjoying the old weathered patina the cupboard is currently sporting. It adds an instant vintage feel to the room. Very Elizabeth House/Curious Sofa looking, don't you agree?

Words to live by (week 20)

Without struggles there is no progress.Frederick Douglass

Ain't that the truth.
     (At least in the case of my sllllooowww moving progress on my kitchen cupboards redo...*sigh* I need to remember to focus on the progress)

Porch Sale Highlights and a few lessons learned.

     I survived the Porch Sale, which was no small feat, because I had been burning the candle at both ends for far too many days by the time today's sale arrived.
    I felt like I pretty much had the same response as Colleen did with her sale. It went well, but I had more than a few folks that assumed it was a regular Garage Sale.

     I also found out today that I inadvertently left one street out of the directions to the show, which taught me that I need to proof read myself (that didn't help with attendance.) but a few of my favorite regulars showed up and it was so nice to visit with them. (Michell, I missed you!!!) I was more than a bit scattered, setting up after three hours sleep (not to self: never do this on a high school graduation weekend again! Too many grad parties to attend during this week, and absentee folks, which my friend Gail warned me about and I disregarded...I promise to listen to you next time Gail!)
     All in all it was a wonderful morning with perfect weather and good friends, and yes I just may do it again sometime. Right now I am anxious to get my garage returned to the state of being a place to park my car, and then I will be ready (at last!) to forge ahead on the new website completion.
     I do hope you'll find it is worth the wait.

Inspiration Friday-outdoor entertaining

(*note* I am not even going to bring up, nor whine about my grainy pictures from the darned scanner today.You know the drill.)
      Today's inspiration is all about entertaining and creating a cozy feeling, all outdoors. (Don'tcha love the touch of all that fruit in the punch glasses?) I am having a lovely time in my garden. Actually I don't know when I've ever gotten more enjoyment out of working in a yard. It's just so satisfying to see my flowers blooming, and my backyard taking on the shape of an true outdoor room.

I've been pondering my folder full of entertaining ideas, looking closely at the outdoor pictures. Don't you love the ambiance of candle light? I am not sure what they used in the hanging jars in this magazine picture, but I fill my jars with birdseed. So nice.
     Attempting to create an outdoor living space has led me to another dilemma. What are your thoughts on outdoor table cloths that hang to the ground? I love the romance and sophistication a floor length tablecloth and topper add, as shown here...

and here...

but is it impractical? Silly? Or, is it stylish? Fabulous? I mean, I don't think I'd leave a floor length cloth on the table 24/7 or anything...just for special dinners and such (which, since I'm "living a beautiful life", could be any night of the week that I choose.)
I should tell you that I have two tables. One round one with 4 chairs (thrifted!) and an eight foot by about two foot long old work table that I have always used for buffet set ups, but works perfectly for eight people to dine at also. (also thrifted--years ago!) I need your input here, people. I am just not sure. I want romance, but I don't want it too theatrical or staged looking, if that makes any sense at all...
     Anyway, I find these pictures very inspiring, and I hope you do too. Happy Friday!

I should invest in Kilz...

     ... and TJ Maxx. I read once that you should invest in products you use, you love, and you believe in. In my case, that would be Kilz Primer. (I must make a mental note to talk to my financial advisor for my 401K at work about this.)
    It's been a very busy, very long week all the way around..I'm moving right along with the Porch Sale merchandise, and it's been very busy at my grown up girl day job as well, with our fiscal year end looming at the end of June, and lots of events at work, and after work as well. Whew!
     I am hoping all this frantic furniture painting way into the night will not be in vain. I guess I'll find out Saturday, right? (I'll admit right here and now that I am more than a wee bit concerned that folks driving by might mistake if for a Garage Sale, and be looking for absolute give-aways...)
      Once the Porch Sale is done, I plan to focus on the reinvention of my website. Boy, do I have some lofty plans in this area! I am oh, so anxious to share the ideas with you, but first...the Porch Sale must happen.
     Right now, everything seems to be a sea of white. Mmm hmm, that would be primer everywhere. On everything. I'll show you exactly what the white drawers go to...on Saturday!

Is it Brocade? (or is it thrifted?)

     The oh, so terribly romantic chandelier I thrifted a couple of Saturdays ago has now been painted a fabulous white. I plan to antique it (more my style) but yesterday in the mail I received the latest Brocade Home catalog, and what do you think was in it? This.

     Wow. Hard to tell the difference in quality, wouldn't you agree? The first picture is a chandelier from the Brocade Home catalog, weighing in at a whopping $499. (plus shipping!) The other one, pictured up on top of my post and on the right, was a mere $15 from a driveway in southwest Reno, with $3.97 thrown in for a spray can of Kilz, and $2 worth of Christmas garland crystals from WalMart , bought two Christmas' ago, bringing the grand total for my thrifted chandelier to $20.97.
Ooh, I love it when it works out like this, don't you?

When life gives you a beverage server, make lemonade

     I am always telling you how small this world of ours is now, thanks to our fabulous internet. I feel like I have so many friends and kindred spirits out there around the world. One person I feel like I am a true kindred spirit to is Cindy.
     No, we have never met in person, but through the world of Blogging, I feel like I know her. Our tastes seem to be so similar; we both share inspiration Fridays, we love nests, candlelight and bunnies, and all things romantic. We are both single, quite often times have the same books and we both shop at the same kind of shops.
     Well, long story getting much longer here, Cindy shared a tremendous find from Marshalls a while back, and there I was, drooling all over my keyboard, longing for one just like it. This beverage server (Is that the correct name for such a beautiful piece? The name sounds so ordinary...)  just oozes charm and quiet sophistication. (if a beverage server can ooze like that, and I think Cindy would agree that this one can, and does)
     Anyway.
     I have been popping by Marshalls ever since (faaaabulous store for bargains, and owned by the same parent company as TJ Maxx, so you know it's got some great finds) and last Saturday afternoon was my lucky day. There it was, tucked back behind some ordinary glass thingamabobs, hidden away on a top shelf, waiting for me. For me. We were shopping for the Maid-of-Honor, but this stopped me dead in my tracks. I told the Maid-of-honor my long winded story of how Cindy had shared it, and wasn't it just so "me" and shouldn't I just grab it up, since clearly this was meant to be? (She of course, agreed) *sigh* I'll go without something else this month in my suddenly single budget to make due, because I simply had to have it. Had to.
     I cannot wait to use it with company. I have a bunch of girlfriends coming over next week, and we'll be using it then, but I couldn't bear to wait that long to test it out, so last night after work I made myself some lemon water (ooh, very spa-like) and I enjoyed it on the patio while looking at my garden and reading through my latest magazines that arrived in my mailbox yesterday.
     *sigh*  I am living one beautiful life. (thanks Cindy!)

It's beginning to look like home

     

     As promised, here is a little peek at the condo's transformation. Most condos at Lake Tahoe are sold furnished, and this was no exception.

     The condo was nice to begin with, but it lacked personality of exactly who lived there. I mean it looked fine, just very hotel-roomish looking; it was that generic.

Now, the Maid-of-Honor is putting her stamp on it, with the wonderful estate sale pieces, and some romantic accessories here and there. She found a fabulous chocolate Brown tufted velvet ottoman (And she got it for a steal of a deal at Ross!) that has now replaced the rental furniture quality coffee table and added some silver and crystal  accessories to add some glam.

    She painted the wood on the fireplace wall,and changed things up a bit there as well. We will be trying out some lace sheers in the bay window for a softer, more romantic touch, as well as a few other tricks.

   Since the Maid-of-Honor has traveled extensively, she has decided to showcase some photos from her travels on the back wall of the living room, and she hung the new frames on the wall to see what sizes she needs to print her photographs. This is going to look great, and I cannot wait to share the full "after" photos with you once we are done!
    Well, I do hope this gave you a little glimpse of what we have been working on. *sigh* Such fun, playing with my grown up daughter this way!

Words to live by (week 19)

Tomorrow is always fresh with no mistakes in it.
Anne Shirley in Anne of Green Gables (the movie)

If this quote doesn't give us all hope, I don't know what does. (just makes me feel good knowing this!)

Busy weekend!

    

     Wow, here it is, Saturday night already, and I am just now finally posting.( and not even able to post a picture!!!) Busy, busy weekend! I started off this morning at 7:00 loading my car with donations for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life Rummage Sale. I volunteered at the sale with the Navigator all morning. We had a great time, but the donations were kinda pitiful, a lot of junk.
     Then later today Moose, Mr. Bear and I headed up to beautiful Lake Tahoe to the Maid-of-Honor's home to work on jazzing up the condo.
     Wow. We had fun, and the place is looking amazing, with all of her "Brocade" looking stuff from the estate sale a couple of weeks ago. I wanted to share pictures, but the camera was not cooperating. (dead batteries!!) I will share photos later...or maybe I can edit this post tomorrow. I am just so anxious to share the fabulous changes we are making.
    Anyhow, we are having a sleep over up here, and I'll be sure and share pictures later, but for now, I need to get back to work helping hang picture frames and moving furniture!   
     (I do promise to add pictures to this post Sunday evening when I am at my cottage!)
*Edited to add the picture at the top on Sunday evening (at about 9:20 pm) and more pictures coming in Monday's post...stay tuned....

Inspiration Friday- It's ALL in the details

     Is it just me, or are Friday's coming faster now? My gosh, it seems like I was just fighting with my scanner...well, a week ago. Anyway, my scanner is still not cooperating, so I have the choice of sharing grainy, fuzzy pictures, or taking photos of the inspiration pictures tacked to a wall. Mmm hmm, very professional looking. *sigh* the dreaded scanner it is.
    I am focusing on details today, because, really, when you get down to it, that is what makes a room cozy. Welcoming. Look at these simple jars of buttons. Darling. The color, texture, and sheer fact that it's a group make it  a pleasure to look at.

     Picture number one. I know the copy is lousy, but look close. Closer. OK, maybe if you click on the picture to enlarge it (yes, still not sharp...bad scanner, bad!) But look at the incredible details that make this room.
      First of all, the obvious; the pretty plates arranged artfully above the bed. Oh gosh, there's even a little framed picture nestled in there. Love it. Now, look a bit closer, at the lampshade. Fabulous, with that French wired ribbon bow and flower. Aah.. details. Lastly, and my favorite part of this photo, look up. Check out the crystal accented chandelier with...yes! Dear little tea cups and a sugar bowl, hanging from yellow ribbons. I love the hodge podge of handmade pillows too. *sigh* soo inviting.

     OK, now this last photo really didn't scan well at all. (Sheesh, you are wondering why on earth I am even attempting to share it.) Well, squint up your eyeballs and look real hard. The charm is there, in this fuzzy picture, I promise.
     It's a kitchen, with a darling painted vintage dresser as an island, actually butted up against the "real" island in the kitchen. I.Love.It.
     I also love the framed oil painting  of pansies sitting on top of it. Unexpected, and charming.
    Yes, it's all in the details.