My Cottage of Content

Cottage living, outside...

2012-02-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

The weather has been so nice lately. Spring is in the air and it's time for spending time outside of our cottages. These photos inspire to take time to sit outside for a while...smell the greenery and the flowers that are beginning to bud. Mm...so nice.

Spring, already?

2012-02-01T12:21:00.000-08:00

It seems hardly possible, but Spring is in the air! I don't know what happened to Winter...just kind of came and went! But, that's OK. We'll take Spring any old day, right?

A Sunlit Cottage...

2012-01-31T21:00:00.000-08:00

"Just as there comes a warm sunbeam into every cottage window, so comes a love born of God's care for every need." - Nathaniel Hawthorne

Finally, a "new" TV cabinet!

2012-01-08T11:31:00.000-08:00

Just when I thought I'd never find the TV cabinet to fit our tiny living space AND look good with my style of decorating, I found it!

I saw it at a local thrift store that I frequent about 3 weeks earlier. When I spotted it, sitting there next to a couple of other TV cabinets, I immediately fell in love with it. I did the overall inspection which included opening the drawers, you know, to make sure they were in good shape. I found the original manufacturer information packet still stapled to the inside of the drawer. It's a Stanley Furniture piece - "Water's Edge" collection. Nice!

Unfortunately, I couldn't purchase it that day...had other obligations to meet, as it were. So, for the next 2 weeks I'd go back, just about every day, to check on "my" cabinet. Each time, I'd take a deep breath, hoping that it was still there. Finally, on the day that I went in to purchase it, there it was! YES!

It had a price of $128 on it, but I asked the store manager if he would take $100, being that it had been sitting there, now, these 3+ weeks. He said, "Yes, I can do that." Hooray! Now, to figure out how to get it to my apartment, right? I asked him if they could hold it for me until I made arrangement to pick it up. He said he would hold it for 24 hours. OK, great! Right about then, one of the nice helpers there asked me if I needed help getting it home. He said he and his friend deliver on the side, not as part of the store. I said that I'd give them $20 to deliver it. He said, "OK!" I had my cabinet delivered and in my living room later that afternoon.

My husband was out of town at the time...visiting his mother and family in Virginia. This was the perfect time to make changes without disturbing him. I know you women know what I mean. Had he been here, sitting in his recliner watching football, it would've been a huge hassle! :-)

I love my "new" TV cabinet...just love it! Our older flat screen TV used to look so huge and seemed to be in the way. Now, it looks teeny sitting in the cabinet and the room actually appears bigger...taller, for sure!

Here are some photos:

Happy blogging my friends!

A Darling Little Trailer is on My Wish List

2011-07-07T16:12:00.000-07:00

Here are some little cuties that provide a lot of cottage-y inspiration. I would love to get my hands on a little vintage trailer, then take my time turning it into my little dream get-away.

Enjoy!

From The Beehive Cottage


From The Beehive Cottage

From A Prairie Cottage

From Life for Dessert

From Pink Cottage

From Rose Vine Cottage Two

The Weather is Fine...

2011-07-07T14:38:00.000-07:00

...for sleeping out on the porch!

Sweet dreams!

Red, White, and Blue!

2011-06-30T10:08:00.000-07:00

I will let the pictures speak for themselves.

I hope you enjoy your upcoming 4th of July celebrations!

Yellow is Such a Friendly Color

2011-05-23T21:14:00.000-07:00

Don't you think?

Six Boxes Arrived!

2011-02-21T21:09:00.000-08:00

I arrived home this afternoon (from running an errand to Target) to find three large boxes waiting for me at our front door. Oh joy! Could it be my boxes from Alabama?

Here are some of the goodies I uncovered:

I quickly put some my pretties here....

...and there.

It'll be fun going through the rest of the boxes, then deciding what will go where. I'm so happy to have my old friends near me again. There are six more boxes still in Alabama, but I'm working on getting those here just as soon as possible.

My joy over having received these is mixed with my sadness and concern over my dear, older brother who suffered a fall and broke two vertebrae in his neck. Complications have set in after the surgery and we're all very concerned for him. We're all praying that he will pull through. He's just got to!

Remember to shower the people that you love with love.

Thrift Shop Thursday - Vintage Cake Plate

2011-02-16T18:41:00.000-08:00

This lovely, vintage cake plate was one of four items I purchased for a total of $5.00. I wasn't sure where I would display it: there is very little space on my kitchen counter. Until I could find just the right spot for it, I placed it in one of my kitchen cupboards.

Almost two weeks later, I was inspired to use it in my half bath downstairs. It's the perfect way to display a bird's nest and a bar of lemon verbena soap. Doesn't it look nice?

Sharing Three Tea Cups on "Tea-Time Tuesday"!

2011-02-14T23:47:00.000-08:00

It's late and I'm a little weary, so I will make this short and sweet. :-)

Some of my tea cups have arrived. In fact, five arrived the other day, but I am only sharing three as I didn't have the energy to take photos of all five. Terrible, I know but I'm so sleepy! I'm really very excited to be reunited with these, and I look forward to receiving the others as in a few days. OK, here go three!

This one was a gift from my friend Randi. It was part of her grandmother's set of China. The pattern is "Marlow" - by Minton. England.

I don't remember where I picked this one up, but the pattern is "Grosvenor" by Jackson & Gosling. England.

This was a gift from my friend, Randi. I couldn't make out the pattern info, but it's English and I love it!

I hope to post photos of the other two soon. Until then, I hope you've enjoyed these. They're just in time for all of the Tuesday tea-related postings. Cheers all!

Linking with Rose Chintz Cottage for "Tea Time Tuesday"

Linking with Martha's Favorites for "Tea Cup Tuesday"
Linking with Artful Affirmations for "Tea Cup Tuesday"
Love the tea cups at "Food As Art"

Boxes On the Way

2011-02-11T06:14:00.000-08:00

I'm SO excited! The shipment of boxes from Florence, AL to CA, containing some of my most treasured goodies, has begun!

I recently sold a piece of exercise equipment that friends were storing for us there. The money from the sale is financing the shipment of my boxes, finally! I should receive the first two boxes beginning next week!

You know, I can't hardly believe that it's been over 2 years since I've been without my things. But, soon they will be home again with Mama, my teapots, tea cups, lamps, books, and other treasured items. I've been very patient and now it's about to pay off.

What would we do without our wonderful friends, near and far? I'm so thankful for them and for all of their help and support over the years.

Will keep ya'll posted!

An All-Time Favorite Thrift-Shop Find

2011-02-03T10:11:00.000-08:00

Welcome Back!!

Thought I'd share one of my all-time favorite thrift-shop finds ever! I no longer have this coffee table as I sold it when we moved from Florence, AL to California.

We found it in a thrift-resale shop for $40. It was a Queen Anne style...dark, solid piece with beautiful engravings on the legs. The finish wasn't that great so I had no problem painting it white. It was truly my shabby-chic find! I was so proud of this table. I hated to part with it, but someone is really enjoying it now, so that makes me happy.

I guess I was feeling a bit nostalgic on this Thrift-Shop Thursday.

Oh So Cottage-y Window Boxes

2011-01-28T07:28:00.000-08:00

I think I truly fell in love with window boxes when I traveled to Germany about 27 years ago. It was rare to see a window without one. Everywhere I looked I saw window boxes overflowing with beautiful, colorful blooms...some more elaborate than others. Even their gas stations proudly displayed window boxes. Just beautiful!

Here are a few of my favorites:

Thrift Shop Thursday

2011-01-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hello There!

I'm going to try something new here. I know that many of us live for our next visit to our favorite thrift shop(s). I know that I do! I have a number of them that I visit on a frequent basis. Of course, I don't always look for the same items. One day I may be looking for collectibles. Another day it might be clothing, and so on. It doesn't matter what my reason for going is, I'm just tickled pink to be there!

My love for thrift store shopping came at a very early age. Our mother used to take us with her, accompanied by her sisters. What fun we had! They'd be shopping for clothes and shoes (they always looked fabulous!) and my sister and I, with our cousins, would be looking for Barbie dolls, or books and such. What fun!

I think it would fun to make Thursday a day for sharing our most recent, or favorite, thrift shop find(s). Wouldn't that be fun? YES!

So, spread the news, and let's get started!!

Thrift Shop Thursday Participants

1. LdyDy

2. Jen

3. cheryl

Tea-Time Tuesday

2011-01-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's that time again! Please join in on the fun!

I invite you to share your tea time or tea party with other bloggers, whether it be tea for one, two, or 102. Well, you get the picture, I hope.

If you've blogged about your tea time, or a tea party, link to your post using the Linky Tools link below. It's that easy! Do we love our tea time? You bet we do! Happy Tea-Time Tuesday!!

Favorite Tea Cups

2011-01-24T22:16:00.000-08:00

When I originally posted this I was still in Florence, AL. Now, we're in CA, but my tea cups and other pretty things are still there. I hope to start shipping these here soon. While visiting my blog I got to looking at these. Now I miss them terribly!

I thought I'd share a few of my favorite teacups with you.

But first, a little tearoom ambiance...

Here is one of 4 Aynsley teacups and dessert plate sets that my children gave me for Mother's Day a few years ago. This one is yellow...
Here is the pink set....
A closer look at the details; I love the hint of green on the handle...
Here is the blue set. There are 2 blue sets...
This one is special, given to me by a very dear friend. It's from a set of China that was gifted to her by her great Aunt...

These 2 are similar, but different...

My dear friend gave this one to me when I was feeling down; it's one of my favorites because it says "Thinking of You"...

A closer look...

More later....

Two "New" Teapots

2011-01-24T20:56:00.000-08:00

I recently found these two Japanese beauties at a local Goodwill Store for $6.99 each. I love Japanese teapots almost as much as I love English ones. Actually, if I love the teapot, it doesn't really matter to me where it's from. I love teapots!

I'm happy to have these as they go nicely with my Japanese lusterware tea cups. I can't wait to serve up some tea. Time for a tea party...again!

Linking to:

Martha's Favorites for Tea Cup Tuesday

I've Been Gifted!

2011-01-24T20:40:00.000-08:00

I've been the most grateful recipient of some lovely gifts these past 2 months. Please humor me while I share some of these gifts with you.

The darling little hand-painted teapot and the birds nest basket were a gift from my dear friend of 30+ years:

The beautiful Spode (pink) and J & G Meakin, England (green) plates were a gift from my sister. Love, love, LOVE these plates!!

The Queen Anne display cabinet was a gift from another good friend. She could no longer keep it as she needed to make room for some of her mother's belongings. "I know you'll probably paint it white," she said. Probably, although I do find myself enjoying the original finish. I quickly "threw" things in there, but perhaps after I paint it I'll carefully select what goes in there:

Did I say that I LOVE this piece? I do!

So many of my treasures are still in storage in Florence, AL, where my husband and I lived together for 3 years. I'm in the process of having some of those shipped to me. It's taken a while to completely settle in. Our current place is very small, or should I say, cozy? It's been nice acquiring new treasures, and these gifts have surely helped to make our cozy dwelling feel more like a cottage.

Cute Little Chair

2011-01-11T10:06:00.000-08:00

I found this darling little chair at thrift store. It's a clock! It looked so "Mary Engelbreit," and I just love her, so I just had to buy it. At $2.99 I wasn't breaking the bank, either. It's now feeling at home with some of my other ME items.:-)

A Corner of My Cottage

2010-06-27T21:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday! Today I'm participating, for the first time, in Cielo's "Show Off Your Cottage Monday." What fun! Didn't have much time to prepare, but here is a little corner of my cozy cottage. Can't wait to see everyone's contributions!

Cottage Chic in the Bedroom!

2010-06-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

Be inspired!

In the Catskills, Comfort in a Gingerbread House

2010-06-25T20:33:00.000-07:00

A dear friend of mine who is well aware of my love for all things cottage and "Shabby Chic" forwarded this link to me.

Do yourself a huge favor and view this slide show. You'll be delighted at what you'll see. I was!

A Tiny Victorian Cottage

Happy Father's Day!!

2010-06-20T13:20:00.000-07:00

Wishing all you wonderful "dads" a very happy Father's Day!

Now, for a little nostalgia, because I love it so!

Wonderful Red Velvet Cake

2010-06-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

Of all the cakes I've made over the years, the one I have never attempted is Red Velvet. I had never heard of one before seeing the movie "Steel Magnolias." If you've seen the movie, I'm sure can recall the scene at the wedding reception, where Shirley McClaine's character is cutting the grooms cake and it is, indeed, a Red Velvet Cake. I thought to myself "What is that?" Maybe it's because I'm from the west coast -- Los Angeles, to be exact. It just wasn't a popular cake where I grew up!

Well, you may find this even more surprising...I never even tasted a velvet cake until fairly recently. OK, it was about 3 days ago. I finally broke down. I bought a couple of slices and, oh my, was it ever wonderful!! Not having any idea what the ingredients were, I kept tasting it..trying to determine what was in this wonderful piece of heaven! It did have a cream cheese frosting which, of course, is the way to top a Red Velvet Cake, in my opinion...now that I've had some.

Not being able to determine what exactly was in this cake, I went to the internet for answers. My husband, who is from the deep south, said that he grew up eating it and said it was a tradition there. He said that his mother always used a cream cheese frosting. I found several recipes and found that they vary, but the most authentic versions include cocoa, vinegar, oil, buttermilk, vanilla, and red food coloring. I knew that I was tasting vanilla, but I would've never thought of cocoa!

So, I've determined that the very next cake I shall make will be Red Velvet Cake. I cannot wait to serve it up on one of my vintage, pedestal cake plates. Perhaps it will follow a traditional southern meal. Won't my husband love that!!

Here are some photos and a recipe for you!

Of course, they make great cupcakes...YUM!!

Click below to watch Atlanta baker Johnnie Gabriel and Paula Deen make a red velvet cake.

How to Make a Red Velvet Cake

Click below for the recipe:

Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Recent Pink "Steals"!

2010-01-31T10:58:00.000-08:00

During a recent trip to a thrift store with daughter, Rebekah, I took note of a couple of vintage Sadler pink teapots. I knew I wanted them, I just didn't think that I could afford them at time time, even at their amazing prices of $9.99 each! I asked the cashier if, by chance, they might be reduced in price sometime soon. She told me that on the following Wednesday they would be reduced to half-price (it was Friday). I gasped! Should I take the chance that no one will pick them up at their current prices? I decided to wait a few days, and I left without them.

Tuesday came around and I wondered if "my" teapots were still there. I called to inquire after them and was told they were still on the shelf. I called my friend Randi, to ask her what she would do. I told her the current prices and she said she'd of snatched them up already! So, should I wait one more day and take the chance? I decided that I should not. I snatched those babies up and am so glad I did. They were marked far, far below what they are worth, in my estimation. I'm now the happy owner of two pretty pink teapots.

Tea anyone?

A Friendship Tea

2009-12-31T20:43:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, my dear and long-time friend hosted a tea for her and me. Since we were both on winter break (she's a preschool teacher and I work for a university), it was the perfect opportunity for us to get together. Oh, what fun we had!

My friend and gracious hostess Randi...

A feast for the eyes...

Beautiful place setting...

Homemade scones with blueberry jam and clotted cream, and curried chicken sandwiches. Yum!!!

Enjoying my Earl Grey...

Cheers!What a lovely time it was. Thank you, Randi!

My Music

2009-12-22T10:51:00.000-08:00

A recent visitor to my blog enjoyed the music that is playing in the background. She asked if I would share more information about it.

Well, I'm very happy to share the names of the songs!
They are as follows:

"Opening Theme" - Pride and Prejudice (Carl Davis)
"Dawn" - Pride and Prejudice
"Mrs. Darcy" - Pride and Prejudice
"Love Theme" - The Notebook
"Willoughby" - Sense and Sensibility
"Devonshire" - Sense and Sensibility
"My Father's Favourite" - Sense and Sensibility'

There's Nothing Like a Cozy Chair

2009-12-22T10:37:00.001-08:00

Happy Belated Fall!

2009-11-02T11:46:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I posted anything on this, my cottage blog. I do have a list of reasons (excuses) for not having done so....and, here they are:

Working full time
Attended a church-family conference for 9 days beginning the 1st week in October
Was sick with the flu for over a week after I returned from the conference
Was sick 2 more days with 2 migraine headaches that occurred 4 days apart
Working full time (Oops! Already used that excuse.)

Fall is probably my favorite season of the year. When I was living in NW Alabama I was able to experience the beautiful colors of fall. I had the added blessing of having a maple tree on my front lawn. My kitchen window gave me a full view of this magnificent tree, with it's absolutely brilliant yellow leaves. That tree seemed to light up the entire block! How I enjoyed it's autumn splendor those 3 years. I do miss seeing it.

The air was crisp, cool and clean there and the color of the sky was beautiful. The fall experience is different here, in Southern CA, but I still enjoy the season's beauty. I do all I can to bring the season indoors with colors and scents that come from baking, spicy-smelling candles, or a turkey roasting in the oven. I'm sure that you all have special things you do to bring the beauty of fall into your home each year. By the way, if you have a photo you'd like to share of a fall decorating project, or a cozy fall spot in your home, please foward it to me and I'll be happy to post it here.

Wishing you all a happy, cozy, spicy, belated Fall!!

What's New in My Kitchen

2009-09-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

I can't really take full credit for this recent change in my kitchen. It came from my neighbor who used a space in her kitchen, which was originally specified for the frig, in a totally different way. Her idea came more from necessity. She has a side-by-side and found that it would fit better against another wall. By placing her frig where she did she won't be able to access her the water heater closet, but if you don't need to on a regular basis what's the big deal, right?

I remember standing near her kitchen once and not immediately putting my finger on why her kitchen looked larger than mine (we're apartment dwellers so our space is very limited). Then I saw it, that her frig was not where it was "supposed" to be. It looked great! I told her that I would be trying her idea in my apartment first chance I got. My husband was concerned about the water heater closet being blocked, but then said it would be fine because the frig has wheels and can be easily pulled out.

I've yet to get a picture of her version (which is very nice), but below are some pictures of mine. I really like having this little spot next to my stove not filled up by my frig, especially now that I have a new place for it.

My frig now sits to the left of this area, neatly tucked back against that wall.

Happy cottage blogging!

My Favorite Cookie Recipe

2009-08-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hello All!

With Fall inching it's way around the corner, I'm thinking about baking. Yay! I love to bake in the Fall, and especially yummy cookies. So, I thought I'd share one of my favorites with you. I call them my nutty, fruity and buttery cookies. Think I'll take these to the next cookie social at Church!

Ingredients:

1 cup softened butter

3/4 cups light brown sugar

3/4 cups granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 eggs at room temperature

2-1/4 cups unbleached flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup dried cranberries or raisins

1 cup chopped walnuts

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325°F. Line 2 large rimmed baking sheets (insulated cookie sheets are best!) with parchment paper. In a large bowl blend the butter and sugar. Stir in the eggs and vanilla until nice and creamy. In another bowl sift together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Blend into the butter mixture, a little at a time. Add the cranberries and nuts.

Drop heaping tablespoon of cookie dough unto the cookie sheets and bake at 325F for 15-20 minutes. I like my cookies on the light golden, soft side. If you wish yours to be more crispy, bake them at 350 for 12-15 minutes.

Variations:

You can add 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips, or substitute macadamia nuts for walnuts.

ENJOY!

My Headboard

2009-08-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hi again! OK, so I thought I'd give my project it's own title.

Here are some views of my new headboard. As you can see, it's actually a folding screen. My bedroom is a work in progress, and I'm aiming for a beach cottage look. Most-likely, I'll hang some vintage plates above or around the screen (because I love vintage plates), and I'll be looking for a different lamp. I plan to paint the nightstand white, then sand it around the corners to make it look a bit more cottage-y. It's a very cozy bedroom and pretty much what you see is all there's room for...well, except that there's a dresser on the opposite wall.

So, what do you think?

Fireplace Mantel As a Headboard

2009-08-16T12:32:00.001-07:00

I bought this mantel a few years back, but sold it to my friend when I moved to Alabama. She kept it in her garage until she found a place for it. It's now found a new home as a headboard. Here are a few photos for you to enjoy.

Happy Cottage Blogging!

Folding Screen Used As a Headboard

2009-08-14T16:01:00.001-07:00

I'd been toying with the idea of using my wrought iron folding screen as a headboard. being that I don't own a headboard. My screen is as heavy as it could be, but it's painted off-white and has decorative grape leaves all over it, with clusters of grapes made from glass. It fell in love with it 5 years ago when I purchased it, and it had been stored in my brother's garage until fairly recently. It's such a romantic-looking piece and I could really see it used as a headboard. After viewing the following photos on the web, I decided that I would indeed go with the idea.

I'll see about taking a photo of my screen (hopefully this weekend) as a headboard, and will post it here.

Happy cottage blogging!

A Favorite Photo for Today's Blog Hop!

2009-08-11T11:54:00.001-07:00

My youngest daughter and me after her elementary school Sock Hop concert about 6 years ago.

Guess Who's Cottage!

2009-07-27T10:32:00.000-07:00

OK, this would be very similar to the kind of cottage I dreamed of living in when I was a little girl. Isn't it just too cute?

Can you guess who this cottage belongs to?

An Ice Cream Sundae Sunday!

2009-07-20T11:30:00.000-07:00

Here is a shameless photo of me enjoying an decadent ice cream Sundae at Disneyland yesterday. It was my birthday so I got in for free (good time to go if you want a REAL deal)! It was a hot day, so my girlfriend and I tried to prepare ourselves for long lines. Amazingly, the park was not crowded. The longest we stood to wait for a ride was 10 minutes. We rode my 5 favorites -- Pirates of the Caribbean, Indiana Jones, Thunder Mountain, It's A Small World, and Star Tours. We tried for Space Mountain, but it was closed. We ate at the Mexican restaurant in Frontierland -- yum! Later that afternoon we had a scoop of strawberry ice cream on a waffle cone -- double yum! All-in-all it was a good day. OK, back to watchin' the carbs! BTW, is it me, or does my hand look huge in this photo? Makes me think of that Seinfeld episode..."Man Hands." HAHA...

Cottage Chic Bar Stools

2009-07-13T06:23:00.000-07:00

These cottage chic wrought iron bar stools are featured in the current issue of Romantic Country. I am just loving the color -- kind of reminiscent of a Robin's egg blue. Definitely keeping this color in mind.

What's For Dinner?

2009-07-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

One of our co-workers brought in some huge, homegrown zucchinis. Last week I cut it up and stir-fried it with garlic, onions, tomatoes and mushrooms, then I topped it off with some Jack cheese. Very yummy served up with grilled chicken. This time around I'm thinking quiche -- a creamy zucchini quiche. It's fabulous served up with a crisp green salad and glass of white wine. Yum!

Cottagey 4th of July Displays

2009-07-03T13:17:00.000-07:00

While I realize that not all of my viewers recognize the "4th of July," I thought it would be fun to share some really fun, friendly and welcoming displays. Enjoy!

Fabulous Summer Desserts

2009-07-02T08:39:00.000-07:00

With Summer in full swing, and a holiday weekend coming up, I'm thinking about yummy desserts! Which will I choose? Hmm....

Banana Cream Pie Lemon Blackberry Cake
Lemon Meringue Pie
Fresh Berry Shortcake with Spiced Syrup
And, of course, my FAVORITE...a hot fudge brownie a la mode!
Yep, hot fudge brownie a la mode it will be!!

Vacation At the Beach

2009-07-01T09:48:00.008-07:00

I'd love to spend a week, no, a month at this beach cottage.

I would imagine that the interior to look somthing like this... Or, like this. I love all of the white washed wood surfaces and pale colors. Very soothing and relaxing....

I could sleep like a baby in this room...
For great beach cottage tips, check out A Beach Cottage.

Darling Cottage Dining

2009-06-29T12:40:00.005-07:00

Recent decorating changes

2009-06-26T16:18:00.002-07:00

Hi all! Just wanted to update you on some recent changes.

OK, so I brought the little table home. Here is photo of where it sits. I haven't had a chance to touch-up paint, or anything. Just brought it in, placed it there and quickly put some items on it. Would like to place a small, "shabby-chic" accent lamp on it.

Here is a closer shot...

Another recent change was to my kitchen. My nephew gifted me this mirror. It belonged to my dearly loved & departed brother (how I miss him), so it really is a special item for me. I decided to hang it on the small wall at the back of my kitchen. It has really helped to open up that space and has given my kitchen more light and depth. Don't you just love the magic of mirrors? I plan to paint the little wine cabinet underneath the mirror white, or possibly a duck egg blue.

Well, that's all for now! Until next time, happy cottage blogging!

Vintage Cottage Table

2009-06-24T22:11:00.004-07:00

I'll be bringing this piece home on Friday. I've got just the spot for it. Actually, I've got a couple of places in mind...will decide after I try both. It'll either sit on the far side of my kitchen, underneath a mirror with a small accent lamp on it. Or, it'll sit on a small wall in my living room, just outside of my kitchen.

Can't wait to get it home! BTW, found it on Craigslist!

Happy cottage blogging!

Shabby Patio Chairs

2009-06-13T18:30:00.003-07:00

Aren't these just the best?

I recently purchased these from the nicest lady who advertised them on Craigslist. I often go to Craigslist and type in "Shabby Chic." I always find a variety of items listed.

Well, this gal was in my neighborhood. She moved to a smaller apartment and didn't have room for these. I'd been looking for outdoor chairs for my upstairs balcony patio. These are so chippy and shabby...just couldn't pass them up! Now they're sitting up there looking ever so happy and at home. I've thrown some seat cushions on them, for now. My husband has enjoyed sitting in them. Later, I'll add some comfy throw pilows, or quilted throws. I'm waiting to find just the right ones. I'll take some pics soon.

I'm loving these chairs!

(this was the photo in her Craigslist ad)

Happy cottage-loving day!

Fresh Cottage Looks (make me feel content)

2009-06-04T11:29:00.004-07:00

Cottage Accents

2009-04-10T11:22:00.008-07:00

This was a recent purchase from Craigslist. It's sitting on our small dining table. Our dining room is a work in progress. It's currently doubling as an office. This lovely print was purchased at a Goodwill thrift store for $5. I loved the colors and theme of the print. The two of them together... Another recent purchase through Craigslist. This lovely pastel-colored braided rug was a real steal. I have a "thing" for braided rugs, so I just couldn't pass this one up...

A lovely floral arrangement purchased from a Goodwill thrift store... Oops...how do I turn this one around? Anyway, a lovely little Robin's nest with eggs...gifted to me by a coworker on Wednesday...The little floral pillow was purchased at a Goodwill thrift store; the quilted throw was purchased at the Marshalls outlet store in Ontario...

The green window pane mirror was purchased at a Goodwill thrift store for just a few dollars; the floral spray, also....

A view of all of my recent treasures...

So, that's it for now. A little here and a little there, but it's starting to come together.

I'm looking foward to getting some fabric up around my windows. I have 4 nice dining chairs that need some sanding and painting...their seats also need recovering. I'm keeping my eyes open for a small round dining table. I'd prefer a pedestal base so that I can get more chairs around it. I'd paint it white, of course, so the finish need not be perfect. I'm thinking I can paint my chairs a duck egg blue. Or, I can paint them a cream color and cover the seats in the blue fabric.

Below is a photo I found in the Summer 2009 (No. 119) issue of Country Almanac. It's on page 18 under the title of "Yearning for the Beach." The table and chairs and colors have inspired me. If you've got the magazine, look it up and you'll see what I mean!

Until next time, happy cottage decorating!!

A Perfect Shade of Blue

2009-04-09T11:50:00.004-07:00

Let There Be Blue by LdyCollum on Polyvore.com

Cottage Charm

2009-03-11T09:05:00.004-07:00

More of the look that I love...

Chic Bar Stools

2009-03-05T16:09:00.005-08:00

Someone is selling these on Craigslist. There are 3 of them and they are counter height, which is what I need. I think they might just do! I do like the off-white color and curvy lines -- kind of "chic," don't you think? They're fairly new...still have the plastic on the seats. They would be easy to spray paint if I wanted to change the color up a bit. I could even sew up some cute little skirts for the seats. Oh, and the price is definitely right!

Can I get some feedback? Do you think they'd fit into a Cottage/Shabby Chic decor? Happy cottage blogging!

Cottage Bar Stools

2009-03-05T08:52:00.007-08:00

Wow, I would really love some of these for my counter seating area. Being that I've got such a tiny dining area, and part of it is taken up with a computer armoire (for my husband's apartment managing files, etc.), these would look SO nice!

I'll see about taking some photos real soon, so that you can get a better idea of the space I'm working with. My husband thought that maybe we'd have room for a small round counter-height table with a couple more chairs like these. I think that sounds like a great idea. Now, where to get these chairs! Does anyone know where I might find them?

Happy day, and happy blogging!

Marcia

Our Small So California Living Room

2009-02-18T20:52:00.008-08:00

OK, here are some photos I took tonight of the furniture that now sits in my teeny-tiny living room. The lamp tables are snug against the corners. This is my longest wall!

A closer view of the sofa and coffee table. If you can't tell from the photos, the color of the fabric is a pale sage green. The floral pattern is embossed. These pieces are on loan from a friend -- she downsized to a smaller home and didn't want to sell her living room pieces, so I'm storing and using them. How great is that?
This is the wall next to my front door. Just enough room for the loveseat...

You can see my front door and window in this one...talk about a snug fit!
Here is a corner view. ..
Here's a view of the other corner...the TV just barely fits on the wall opposite the loveseat....

So, what do you think? It's a pretty generic look right now. I'll have to personalize it by adding some shabby, chic and cottagey throw pillows. I'd like to add a couple of cozy quilted throws...maybe some silk roses in a shabby little pot, and some of my cottage books on the coffee table? Over the sofa I'd like to find a window paned mirror, and a nice shelf underneath that. I'll just make that wall say "cottage" if it the last thing I do! :-)

I'd like to add a nice, large area rug for a nice cozy, layered look. Also, some cottagey tab curtains. I'll hang some of my plates and platters, and some nice floral prints on the walls. I've got plenty of ideas but it'll take a little time. Please feel free to share some of your ideas with me!

Happy cottage blogging!

Our New Apartment in CA

2009-02-12T11:50:00.003-08:00

It’s been a while since I’ve update you all. So, here goes!!

My husband and I moved into our “new” little apartment on January 28th. Actually, we’ll be the resident managers there. We will get a free apartment in exchange for services rendered. Prices being what they are in California – extremely high – we decided that this would be a great way for us to stay on budget and build up our savings once again. We also decided that whoever got the “outside job” with benefits would do that, and the other would be the full-time apartment manager. Well, I landed the “outside job” – with a local university, and it’s only 8 miles from where we are living! This is my 2nd week hand I love it! It pays pretty well and, of course, we now have our medical/dental benefits and more. Thank God!

It’s been quite an adjustment for us both. We moved in on the 28th and both of us started our jobs the following Monday. There was no time to even take a breath! In addition to this, my husband is trying to adjust to living in California. Having grown up and lived only in the southeast, it’s certainly an adjustment. Like he said to me the other day “If I were 22 years old I’d be thinking ‘Wow, this is really cool!’ But, I’m not. I’m 54 years old and, quite frankly, this is a bit scary!” Well, I can certainly understand.

As some of you may know, from reading my blog, we had to sell all of our furniture. We flew to California, and it would’ve been way too expensive to ship all of it here. We were 5 weeks with my parents while we looked for an apartment management and a 2nd job, and we didn’t want to have to pay shipping and storage for furniture when, really, we could just find something once we settled in. That having been said, its a good thing we didn’t ship our furniture because our place is so much smaller than we’d anticipated. Our furniture wouldn’t have fit! I find myself with a new decorating dilemma – trying to figure out what WILL fit in my tiny living room! Ours is a 2-story townhouse-style apartment. Living room, dining room, kitchen and ½ bath downstairs; 2 bedrooms and a full bath upstairs. I’m not kidding, this place is SMALL!

I'm going to be using these as inspiration for a possible set-up for my living room. I have a window similar in size, and on the smaller wall, to the ones these photos. Also, the longest wall in my apartment is similar to these, and where sofa would sit.:

Talk about time...a good friend and her husband are moving out of their home this weekend, into a smaller place, and didn’t want to sell their living room furniture. We talked and it now appears that we’ll be able to use (store) it. What a great arrangement! At first I wasn’t sure if I would be happy with their furniture (style), but I also don’t have a huge budget right now for furniture, so how could I afford to even be picky? Well, as it turns out I think their furniture is quite nice. They have very nice taste! While it’s not exactly “Shabby Chic,” it is a very attractive style and can certainly be transformed with the help of some cottage style and/or shabby chic-like accessories and touches. The color of the sofa is a pretty herb green . Clearly, it's very easy to work with in terms of color because it's a neutral. It’s got a nice shape to it and has nice back and throw pillows. It’s quite comfy-looking! In the meantime, I can save up some money and keep my eyes peeled for items I really like, and take my time doing that so that I don’t make any costly mistakes. I will see about taking some photos – before and after, maybe. I’ll be able to use her coffee and end tables, too.

My husband is insisting on a recliner. Did I say that I HATE recliners? They just don’t fit into my whole “cottage/Shabby chic” look! Ah well, but life and marriage does involve some compromise so, …I think I found one that we can both live with. The color is in the wine family. I think that color will go well with the green.

Currently, our dining room looks like a home office. Actually, it doesn’t even look THAT nice! I dare not touch or move anything for fear of my husband totally losing it! You see, it’s HIS orderly mess. I’m trying to be patient, and this long weekend I hope to set aside some time to focus on moving his “office” upstairs into the spare bedroom. At first he didn’t like that idea, of having to go up and down the stairs to get whatever he needed. I think I’ve convinced him that we can keep a nice couple of expandable folders and file box (Shabby Chic style), and other absolutely necessary items downstairs by the kitchen counter. He’s not quite convinced yet, but I must have the opportunity to show him rather than just explain it to him. It’ll all work. Of that I’m confident!

I'm thinking of this for inspiration for our dining room. It's a lot narrower than the one in this photo, but the set-up could be similar:

The only thing I’ll really need to purchase right off, besides his recliner, is a unit to house our 32” TV. Yep, it’s a big one! I’m hoping to find a used armoire-style one, via “Craigslist.” I really don’t have room for a wall unit. In the end, I hope to end up with a cozy little room—one that makes you feel welcomed, rather than one that appears to be to big for it’s space and overflowing into the “hallway.” Do I even have a hallway? Soon, I hope to have our little apartment looking more like our "cottage of content."

Well, there you have it. That’s my update as of today. Thanks for stopping by, and thank you ALL for your kind, encouraging and lovely comments regarding my blog. They truly bring a smile to my face! Happy cottage blogging!

Lemons

2009-01-18T17:27:00.004-08:00

I love this image!

Made me think about how I do my best to live by this philosophy. I mean, about when life give you lemons to make lemonaide. Sometimes it's not so easy to make lemonaide, especially when the result of the lemons was due to a wrong or bad choice made by mua.

Lemons can be hard to swallow! But, once I've gotten the lemon (juice) down, it can have many wonderful benefits. I like to think of lemons as the moral at the end of the story, IF I choose to learn it!

Then, of course, one CAN always add a little Vodka! Happy cottage blogging!

Cottage Chic

2009-01-16T16:20:00.002-08:00

Some kitchen-y areas I really like...

and, of course, more cottage chic!

Ooh, I just love this garden-y look, don't you?

Yep...this one too! So peaceful!

Love that white, oval coffee table!!

I love pink!

Of course...blue's not bad, either!
Ahh, did I say I love pink?

Yellow is such a friendly color...

Love the pink bag! :-)

Ooh, I just love vintage trays!

Love the way the beautiful pink, wool rug looks against the white-washed floor...

I really like the touches of blue...

Of course, I love Robin's Egg blue, too. This year I plan to use more of it in my decor.

Nice kitty!

One of my favorite photos ever! So white and romantic!

This one too...for the same reason!

Romantic, white linens...

OK. I'm ready for a nap! :-)

Happy cottage blogging!

Reunited

2009-01-01T12:32:00.007-08:00

After nearly 3 months of being apart we are together again. At times we wondered if it was every going to happen! There was so much for my husband to do before he could leave Florence, AL, but thanks to the help of good friends, they got it all done. He couldn't have done it without them! There are still some boxes left to be shipped, but our dear old neighbors are storing them for us until we're in our own place. We're temporarily situated with my parents in the San Diego area while we look for jobs, etc. It's good to spend this time with them.

It's absolutely true what's been said about absense making the heart grow fonder. Now, all of my loved ones are close to me. I couldn't be happier!

Wishing all of my blogging friends the best, and hoping that you're all as happy as I am!

Seat by the Fire

2008-11-21T13:56:00.006-08:00

Happy cottage blogging!

Still alive!

2008-10-29T10:27:00.004-07:00

Hello fellow bloggers!

Sorry I've been so out-of-pocket as of late. Haven't had regular access to a computer, or the internet, so you can all imagine that I'm going just a little crazy! :-)

Am looking for a job. Nothing yet, but I'm hopeful that something will come up soon.

You all take care, and thank you so much for your kind comments and notes. They bring smiles to my face, and they are greatly appreciated!!

Hugs!

Back home in So. California

2008-10-06T17:47:00.004-07:00

Well, we made it here safely and in one piece. Sir Lancelot (my Shih Tzu) and me, that is. I'm already enjoying the weather! Am visiting with my parents in the San Diego County. It's really good to see them. Soon, I'll be seeing my children. Can hardly wait!! Sometimes, it's real hard to be patient. As soon as I can, I'll update my blog. In the meantime, happy blogging!

I haven't forgotten you!!

2008-09-19T15:25:00.003-07:00

Hi there! This is for those of you who have shown interest in some of my "Moving Sale" items. I've not forgotten you!

I've been SO busy, but will promise to get you the shipping info (cost) by Tuesday of next week. I will also set it up so that you can use Paypal to pay for your items.

I used part of this afternoon (left work early with a headache) to pack some boxes. I got my teacups, teapots, china and other misc. fragile items all packed up and ready to go. I pack sparingly so I've got 7 boxes so far. They're not too heavy so I don't think I'm looking at $100 yet. The clothes are going to be the most expensive. Fabric is so heavy! I hope to have everything ready for shipping by end of next week. Eeek!

Thank you for your patience and for your interest in the items. I do appreciate it!

Take care!

Moving Sale Today!

2008-09-01T06:34:00.007-07:00

Just wanted to let my readers know that I'm having a moving sale of sorts, today. I've taken some photos so that you can see some of the items for yourself.

If you see anything you're interested in, please let me know. I'd be happy to look into shipping costs for you.

If you're local, please come on by and help me get rid of this stuff! My address is: 902 Sannoner Ave. in Florence, AL.

HAPPY LABOR DAY!!

Hugs!

So much to do!

2008-08-20T10:13:00.008-07:00

I've got a major move ahead of me

and I've got so much to do.

When I moved here I pretty much just brought those things that I couldn't live without -- family photos, teacups, dishes, clothes, etc. All of the truly bulky items, like furniture, I sold or stored with family and friends. I relied on mostly on thrift stores and yard sales to furnish my home in Alabama. Somehow -- even though I told myself it wouldn't happen -- I accumulated "stuff." There's no way I'm going to ship all of the stuff back. I've got to sell the stuff on Ebay, or somewhere. Any suggestions? I will only be shipping what I absolutely have to. I will most-likely be having a yard sale.

There's just so much to think of right now. I'm trying my best to not become overwhelmed. This is probably a good time to start making some lists. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Cute Candle Holder

2008-08-07T15:06:00.006-07:00

I found the cutest little ceramic votive candle holder at Big Lots. I went there during my lunch hour to pick up some toiletries. As I passed by one of the isles, this little cutie caught my eye. I thought "How cute is this!" Then I carefully turned it over to see how much it was...$5. Now that was a nice little price for such a nice little item! As you can see (I hope), the base is watering can. The shade has cut-outs in it so that the votive candlelight can be seen.. It's now very much at home on my kitchen window sill.

Here's another view of it...Here is the lovely little plate that inspired the name of my blog. It sits on my window sill where I can enjoy it every day. It truly is a special little plate...

Royal Albert "Senorita" tea cup

2008-08-05T13:31:00.007-07:00

I purchased it 4 or 5 years ago at Treasures 'n Junk in Ontario, CA. Meet my Royal Albert "Senorita." This spicy little number definitely breaks the rules, as it's not your typical dainty and demure little tea cup. I just fell in love with it! It took me back to my Flamenco-dancing days, this little "Senorita." Isn't she pretty?

Sorry that I don't have a close-up of it. Hopefully, you can still appreciate how nice it is.

Happy Tea Cup Tuesday!

Linking to:

Artful Affirmations: Tea Cup Tuesday

Garden Cottage

2008-08-05T10:04:00.016-07:00

I love the soothing, tranquil feelings that this pastel cottage evoke. The elements -- furnishings, window coverings, textures and collectibles -- blend so nicely together. The result is a casual, relaxing, garden-like setting.

My Polyvore

2008-08-02T18:00:00.005-07:00

Vintage Business Trip:

Cottage Picket Fences

2008-08-01T13:59:00.002-07:00

Beatrix Potter

2008-07-29T15:00:00.008-07:00

Here's a quote I read about her..."Beatrix Potter captured the unique patchwork beauty of the south Devon countryside, its vibrant coastal towns, romantic little cottages and expansive estuaries with impressionistic brush strokes and a surprisingly bold and rather contemporary use of colour. The rich palette of the West Country inspired not only a series of exquisite watercolours but also some of Potter's most evocative writing."

Her books were always my first choice when reading to my children. They, too, remember with much fondness her stories. To this day, one of their favorites is The Tale of Two Bad Mice. Tom Thumb and Hunca Munca's adventures in the doll house belonging to Lucinda and Jane were lots of fun to read to them. Oh, the hours of joy spent hearing their giggles. It was always fun trying to create voices for these characters. Whew!

It was a pleasant coincidence that Victoria Magazine is featuring Beatrix Potter in their current issue. Check it out!

The Tale of Peter Rabbit

by Beatrix Potter

Once upon a time there were four little Rabbits, and their names were --
Flopsy, Mopsy, Cottontail, and Peter.
They lived with their Mother in a sand-bank, underneath the root of a very big fir-tree.

'Now my dears,' said old Mrs. Rabbit one morning, 'you may go into the fields or down the lane, but don't go into Mr. McGregor's garden: your Father had an accident there; he was put in a pie by Mrs. McGregor.'

'Now run along, and don't get into mischief. I am going out.'

Then old Mrs. Rabbit took a basket and her umbrella, and went through the wood to the baker's. She bought a loaf of brown bread and five currant buns.

Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail, who were good little bunnies, went down the lane to gather blackberries:

But Peter, who was very naughty, ran straight away to Mr. McGregor's garden, and squeezed under the gate!

First he ate some lettuces and some French beans; and then he ate some radishes;

And then, feeling rather sick, he went to look for some parsley.

But round the end of a cucumber frame, whom should he meet but Mr. McGregor!

Mr. McGregor was on his hands and knees planting out young cabbages, but he jumped up and ran after Peter, waving a rake and calling out, 'Stop thief!'

Peter was most dreadfully frightened; he rushed all over the garden, for he had forgotten the way back to the gate. He lost one of his shoes among the cabbages, and the other shoe amongst the potatoes.

After losing them, he ran on four legs and went faster, so that I think he might have got away altogether if he had not unfortunately run into a gooseberry net, and got caught by the large buttons on his jacket. It was a blue jacket with brass buttons, quite new.

Peter gave himself up for lost, and shed big tears; but his sobs were overheard by some friendly sparrows, who flew to him in great excitement, and implored him to exert himself.

Mr. McGregor came up with a sieve, which he intended to pop upon the top of Peter; but Peter wriggled out just in time, leaving his jacket behind him.

And rushed into the tool-shed, and jumped into a can. It would have been a beautiful thing to hide in, if it had not had so much water in it.

Mr. McGregor was quite sure that Peter was somewhere in the tool-shed, perhaps hidden underneath a flower-pot. He began to turn them over carefully, looking under each.

Presently Peter sneezed--'Kertyschoo!'
Mr. McGregor was after him in no time.
And tried to put his foot upon Peter, who jumped out of a window, upsetting three plants. The window was too small for Mr. McGregor, and he was tired of running after Peter. He went back to his work.

Peter sat down to rest; he was out of breath and trembling with fright, and he had not the least idea which way to go. Also he was very damp with sitting in that can. After a time he began to wander about, going lippity--lippity--not very fast, and looking all round.

He found a door in a wall; but it was locked, and there was no room for a fat little rabbit to squeeze underneath. An old mouse was running in and out over the stone doorstep, carrying peas and beans to her family in the wood. Peter asked her the way to the gate, but she had such a large pea in her mouth that she could not answer. She only shook her head at him. Peter began to cry.

Then he tried to find his way straight across the garden, but he became more and more puzzled. Presently, he came to a pond where Mr. McGregor filled his water-cans. A white cat was staring at some gold-fish, she sat very, very still, but now and then the tip of her tail twitched as if it were alive. Peter thought it best to go away without speaking to her; he had heard about cats from his cousin, little Benjamin Bunny.

He went back towards the tool-shed, but suddenly, quite close to him, he heard the noise of a hoe--scr-r-ritch, scratch, scratch, scritch. Peter scuttered underneath the bushes. But presently, as nothing happened, he came out, and climbed upon a wheelbarrow and peeped over. The first thing he saw was Mr. McGregor hoeing onions. His back was turned towards Peter, and beyond him was the gate! Peter got down very quietly off the wheelbarrow; and started running as fast as he could go, along a straight walk behind some black-currant bushes.

Mr. McGregor caught sight of him at the corner, but Peter did not care. He slipped underneath the gate, and was safe at last in the wood outside the garden.

Mr. McGregor hung up the little jacket and the shoes for a scare-crow to frighten the blackbirds. Peter never stopped running or looked behind him till he got home to the big fir-tree.

He was so tired that he flopped down upon the nice soft sand on the floor of the rabbit-hole and shut his eyes. His mother was busy cooking; she wondered what he had done with his clothes. It was the second little jacket and pair of shoes that Peter had lost in a fortnight!

I am sorry to say that Peter was not very well during the evening. His mother put him to bed, and made some camomile tea; and she gave a dose of it to Peter!
'One table-spoonful to be taken at bed-time.'

But Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cotton-tail had bread and milk and blackberries for supper.

THE END

Cottage Windows

2008-07-26T18:00:00.007-07:00

I love old windows, whether they are attached to a lovely cottage or not. The first old 6-paned sash window that I ever purchased cost me $10 at an antique mall. I don't know why, but I just had to have it! This was around the time when Target was selling 6-paned mirrors that, well, looked like a window. I thought..."hmm, I can turn this old window into a mirror that I can hang!" Well, it cost me $40 to have the glass panes removed and replaced with mirrored panes. It was worth it for everytime I looked at my "new" mirror, it made me smile! Anyway, here are some great ideas for old windows. ENJOY!

Windows -- they're the view into a quaint cottage or a stately home. Sadly, for one reason or another, they're oft times disgarded and left for dead. Ah, but if you are thrifty and have a love for the old and the disgarded, you can bring life back to old windows and turn them into treasures...like these!

This was created especially for a nursery...just beautiful!
This one makes me want to spend time in my garden...
Friendly, timeless daisies...
Now, this is truly creative...

Nothing's quite so romantic and cottagey as old flower seed packets and lace...
A shabby version of a room divider made from 2 old windows hinged together...
Dreamy, romantic roses....

Dried flowers; very romantic and cottagey!

Light and springy...
Perfect for your romantic cottage entry way....
Sittin' pretty in the garden...
Shabby and proper....

Simple and elegant....

Here are three more for the garden...

Reusing Old Windows
By Tamera Bastiaans

This is a wall hanging I made with an old window. Here are the directions!Supplies:
1 old window I got mine at a grage sale for $3)1 old board (about a 1"x 9"x the size of your window)

1 yard of fabric to match your decor
1 floral swag to match decor and fabric
PaintStaple GunGlue Gun
Picture Hanging Kit (the kind with wire and screws with eye holes for heavy pictures)

Directions:
Clean up the beat-up old window. Screw the 1x6 onto the bottom side of the window. Paint the window and the shelf. When it is dry, do one last clean up, getting all of the excess paint off. Stretch the fabric across the back of the window and staple it into place. Attach the picture hanging kit to the back. Attach swag to the top front with glue gun, or nails, or staple gun. Viola! I love mine!!

Cottage Garden Gates

2008-07-24T11:14:00.007-07:00

A beautiful garden poem...

Enter through here...

Listen to the sweet song of the birds...

Smell the fresh grass...

Where do they lead...

A secret garden...

Wisteria gate...

So many roses...

Do come in...

Garden Cottage

2008-07-18T07:10:00.004-07:00

What a beautiful cottage! I do admire people who know EXACTLY what they want, and then "go for it"! Most would not go for such a vivid color, but it works so well. I wish that I could be this confident and bold. I think this person deserves an award for having such a lovely, original and colorful cottage. Don't even get me started on the garden! With a garden like this, who needs a front lawn!

Cottage Sleeping

2008-07-17T11:53:00.006-07:00

What a perfectly wonderful setting for reading, dozing, relaxing or dreaming. Some days, this is where I need to be....

So peaceful....

My 1950's Retro Cottage Bathroom

2008-07-14T16:36:00.005-07:00

When I first saw the bathroom I loved it. I loved the colored tiles. The wall color? Eh! But I thought, "OK, how can I make this look cottagey?" It's a bit 50's retro...something that Mary Engelbreit (ME) might have lots of fun with. I need to "cottage" it up! I looked through some of my ME mags and found a couple of ideas.

I found the shower curtain on Ebay, and it was a perfect fit! We are leasing this house so I don't really feel that I can do much with it in the way of painting, etc. So, I kinda had to go with what I had. Fortunately, the picture frames that I brought with me from CA matched perfectly because the mats were the same color green as the tile trim. WOW!

I found the little wicker hamper with the striped lining at Bed, Bath and Beyond. The towels? Big Lots. I looked for a salmon color, for contrast, but I couldn't find any at the time.
I found the little yellow shelf at a thrift store, and I quickly found some "stuff" to go on it. These photos were taken about 2 years ago and some things of changed a little. I took these photos to share with friends. To post them here I'd of made sure the counter was spotless. Oh well, kinda gives you an idea of what it looks like, anyway.

I found this lovely little vintage mirror in a Salvation Army thrift store for $2. I didn't realize how old it was (1950's) until I turned it over and read the info on it. The felt backing is in mint condition. It can hang or sit on a flat surface, like a picture frame. It's made of a hard material -- not wood or plastic. Anyway, I just love it!

I love Chanel #5...

My Cottage Living Room (Florence, AL)

2008-07-13T20:51:00.009-07:00

My wing chair was purchased at a resale shop find at $50; quilted throw was $20 at TJ Maxx; Laura Ashley throw pillow was $8 at Big Lots; the little table I purchased from a coworker for $10 -- it was in need of a new finish so I sanded it a bit and painted it the green to match my sofa...

The Shabby Chic-looking accent lamp was $20 at Tuesday Morning; the mirror was purchased at the Salvation Army for $2 -- it was an ugly brown and I painted it white; white teapot was a thrift store find; tea cup was an antique store find (or Ebay), I don't remember; the Victoria flowers book was purchased through a book club a few years back...

A closer look...

A couple little garden books, some potted silk roses and a teapot make for a sweet little cottage vignette...

A peek at what's on my coffee table at present....

A closer look at some of my cottage books...

Here is another view of of my coffee table. I found this at a resale shop for $40. It's solid wood (mahogony, I think) but the finish was bad, so I sanded it and my husband helped me paint it white; some of the items on the table have moved to different spots in my cottage...

This is my TV armoire, It was purchased at a "seconds" type shop because there was something wrong with it (I still don't know what?), but the best part is that we got it for $300. Now, the reason I know that was such a good deal is because I had purchased one at a cottage furnishings shop in Chino Hills, CA and it was $1,200!! I had to sell it when I came to Alabama so I was real happy to find this one. I actually like this one better because of the arched top and the cottage-like doors....

Here's what it looks like with the doors closed. The doors usually stay open, but every now and again I close the doors so that I can appreciate this way, too...

Just some roses and ivy that I draped over the top...
A little Robin's nest that my mother-in-law gave me; it had been abadoned and she knew that I'd love to have it...

I found this little table at an antique mall, here in AL; it was $20 because the finish was not that great. Again, I didn't care because I love to paint cute pieces, and that's exactly what I did to this one. I chose a pink that was in ny drapes. There's the other Shabby Chic-like accent lamp that I bought at Tuesday Morning two years ago...

Here's a close-up of the beautiful vintage lamp that I found at a local Salvation Army for $20. This was a steal because it's in mint condition. I added the little crystal prisms and the lampshade...

Here a different view of the vintage floor lamp; btw, in case it's not clearly visible, the color of the lamp is a pale yellow...just lovely! The drapes were purchased at Walmart for $13 and cents for each panel; can't beat that with a stick!! Here is a view of my celery green sofa. I really liked it at the time...still do, but I'd like to have a nice off-white, Shabby Chic-like slipcover made for it. One day when I haven't got a million other things to do. The quilt draped on my sofa is a Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic quilt that I purchased at Target about 5 years ago. The more I wash it, the better it gets!

Here is a little grouping that's sitting in the built-in pine shelving next to our livingroom fireplace. There are 2 built-in shelved. If this was my home to do with as I wanted, these would've been painted WHITE by now! The platter is one of many that I have collected -- it's a Haviland Limoge; the Victoria book was acquired through the book club several years ago; the teapot was gifted to me by my dear friend in California; the "Senorita" teacup was purchased at an antique mall in California....
Here's a view of part of another shelf. The teapot was purchased at Ross ("I got it at Ross!") several years ago; the teacup was gifted to me by my dear friend in California...

Here is a picture of the very FIRST book about Cottages I ever purchased. I found this at Barnes & Nobles, I believe; the teacup on the left I purchased at an estate sale in California; the pretty little "Thinking of You" teacup was gifted to me by my dear friend in California after I'd been a bit under the weather. Truly, a dear friend of mine!

The oval, vintage frame was purchased at a thrift store in California for $20...I fell in love with it instantly! The little yellow shelf was purchased at a thrift store in Alabama for $2...I painted it a pale, mustard yellow...

Well, that's it for now! More later....

Beautiful Cottages

2008-07-12T20:17:00.005-07:00

A charming Irish cottage...

A "guest house" cottage...
Stately English cottages...
Just another day in the English country...

Italian cottage...
Bungalow-style "Daisy Cottage"...
Cottage in the city...

So pink and lovely...

My Friend's Romantic Cottage

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My Cottage of Content

2008-07-11T17:03:00.006-07:00

During one of my many antique and thrift store escapades with my dear friend, Randi Sue, I came across the lovliest little plate. It was made by Royal Staffordshire Ceramics in England. It's a little larger than a saucer and is white & wine-colored. The edges all around are beautifully scalloped but the lovliest thing about this plate is the picture on it. On the right-hand side is a picture of beautiful little cottage. In front of the cottage runs a dirt road, and across from the cottage is an old oak tree that bends over the road. In the distance on a hill you can see what appears to be an old castle-like structure. In a white area of the plate, that represents the sky, is written the most beautiful poem...

"As I was wandering oer the green
Not knowing where I went
By chance I saw a pleasant scene
The cottage of content "

I have enjoyed this plate so very much. Everytime I pick it up and look at it I can imagine being there...walking on that little road and stopping at this little "cottage of content." I magine knocking on the door and being welcomed in for a cup of tea and biscuits. Oh, what a lovely thought, indeed!

Since the time I purchased this plate, about 10 years ago, I have referred to my home as "MY Cottage of Content," and so I happily name my site, here, the same.