Thursday, July 7, 2011
Naomi Watts | Screen Test
Lynn Hirschberg of The New York Times Style Magazine talks to the actress Naomi Watts. I love her and all of her films. Read more here.
My Chosen Bedroom for Tonight
This is where I've decided to sleep tonight. I love that recessed bookcase wall behind the bed. A side table might be nice since I can't sleep without a stainless steel water bottle full of ice water within arm's reach in the summer. Especially if the windows are open and the central air is turned off. I broke down and turned it on today. I had to close all of my windows while the gutters were being cleaned and it's really hot outside. But as you all know I don't like being sealed inside. So before I jump in this big white bed, I'll throw open the windows. Goodnight. See you in the morning. xo
Beautiful Country Dirt Road
Have you noticed how seldom you see a good country dirt road these days? I can't even remember the last time I created a cloud of red dust while driving down a great one like this. ©Junga
Decorating with Diamonds
This photograph reminds me of the gray and white diamonds I painted on the country-kitchen floor of my previous home.
A Classic Home Renovation or Transformation
I can think of nothing quite as charming as an older home, surrounded by equally-classic architecture, on a quiet tree-lined street. Oftentimes, people shy away from buying these houses, in spite of the fact that they're located in established neighborhoods, because their interiors aren't as bright or open as those of newer homes; or, perhaps, potential buyers feel overwhelmed by the amount of work required to update the existing structure. Prior to the renovation, this house was hidden behind a wall of overgrown shrubbery. The team cleaned up the landscape, painted the dull red brick a bright white, installed a new slate roof with dormers, and added or replaced shutters as necessary.
When I first glanced at this wonderful article I did not even realize that this red brick house behind giant overgrown shrubs was the BEFORE shot of this amazing transformation. The new owners must be so happy that they were able to see the possibilities in saving this grand old home instead of tearing it down. More photos and complete article here.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Crested Black Macaque Snaps Self-Portrait | Maybe
I saw this story on the news last night. What do you think? Real or fake self-portrait of a Crested Black Macaque taken with a camera the primate snatched from award-winning photographer David Slater in Indonesia? Wait until you see the photo showing a toothy smile before you decide. Read more...
Vines Gone Wild
House to owner, "Help me. I can't breathe." This is what happens when you relax your vine clipping guard.
Super Outdoor Showers
I really like these outdoor showers with the industrial-style hardware from Sonoma Forge. Click around and find your favorites.
Great Garden Design
This is such an inspiring landscape design, isn't it? And impossible too. via Pinterest
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Little Girl Befriends Baby Orangutan
I fell in love with this photo that I kept seeing here and there on the internet and finally found the story behind this adorable little girl and her new orangutan friend. Read more. Don't you love the picture of them having a tea party? I hope she is able to remember this event when she gets older. Another article here and here.
Piggy is Back for A Week-long Visit | Yay
Webster and I picked up The Pig last night. We've already been for two walks and both of the dogs are napping right now. I missed my weekly office meeting but want to go to a couple of open house tours. See you later. Aren't you glad to see Piggy again? He loves the balcony.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Beautiful Home To End A Beautiful Day
I've decided to end my beautiful day here. There's plenty of room so please join me. Entertaining on the Internet is so much easier than the real thing, isn't it?
Beaded Flag Safety Pin and A Reel Mower
I've been meaning to show you this cool beaded safety pin I've been wearing daily since Memorial Day. Purchased for a whopping 25¢ at the last church rummage sale. I love it.
Still life in progress in the front yard. I mowed what I could with the riding mower 2 days ago. The space is tight with the brick wall and the well head so I have to clean up the missed spots with the reel mower and the hand trimmer. The grass was knee high literally because my gas-powered push mower hasn't worked all year. I like this old-timey mower because it makes me feel like I'm 12 years old again. And that's a good thing.
Creamy Lemon Popsicles [Recipe]
Creamy Lemon Popsicles Recipe
(Adapted from Whipped)
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp. grated lemon peel
pinch of salt
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
Whisk sugar, lemon juice, lemon peel, and salt in a large bowl until sugar dissolves. Whisk in buttermilk.
Divide mixture among popsicle molds. Cover and freeze until firm, at least 4 hours and up to 5 days.
I can't wait to make these. I don't have any lemons or buttermilk on hand right or I would already be whipping these up. This is the best recipe I have found so far calling for the least amount of sugar. Don't they sound good?
(Adapted from Whipped)
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp. grated lemon peel
pinch of salt
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
Whisk sugar, lemon juice, lemon peel, and salt in a large bowl until sugar dissolves. Whisk in buttermilk.
Divide mixture among popsicle molds. Cover and freeze until firm, at least 4 hours and up to 5 days.
I can't wait to make these. I don't have any lemons or buttermilk on hand right or I would already be whipping these up. This is the best recipe I have found so far calling for the least amount of sugar. Don't they sound good?
My ice cold watermelon will have to do for my July 4th treat later. Have a great holiday. xo
Sunday, July 3, 2011
George VI: The Reluctant King
The Real King George VI greeting a pig in 1942.
George VI: The Reluctant King Don't fail to click on these wonderful photos of the King from infancy. There are 28 pictures in all and believe me, you are in for a real treat. I never knew how much Prince Charles takes after his grandfather before seeing these great vintage photos from Life Magazine.
Hummingbird at The Cottage
I have two hummingbird feeders hanging from my balcony railing but never seem to have my camera handy at the right time. I was too far away from this one sipping nectar from a lamb's ear down below yesterday but at least I can prove they are around. Here is a recipe for hummingbird feeder nectar.
Kitchen Still Life for A Sunday Morning
It's sometimes nice to treat yourself like company and go all out preparing a Sunday morning breakfast, isn't it? I am about 90% caught up on my mowing thankfully because it was a stormy night and it's still raining right now. I just have hand trimming left. Webster and I were outside until dark racing to rake the front 'hayfield' before calling it quits. I do manage to get things done in my own way alternating between being way behind and having everything absolutely perfect, stubborn country girl that I am. Enjoy your holiday weekend Sunday. xo
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Statue of Liberty Dedicated July 4, 1886
On July 4, 1886, the Statute of Liberty, a present from the people of France, is dedicated in New York Harbor, exactly two years after it was first presented as a gift from the French to the U.S. in Paris.
Life Magazine: It Happened on the Fourth of July.
Life Magazine: It Happened on the Fourth of July.
Jenny Wren and Wild Berries
Two of my favorite things about summer.
I have several families of house wrens that sing to me the whole day through. I don't have any blackberries but do have tons of raspberries. Original painting by Carl Whitfield
I hope you are enjoying your favorite things too. xo
I hope you are enjoying your favorite things too. xo
Friday, July 1, 2011
Perfect Symmetry in France
11 bedrooms, 8.5 baths, 6,450 sq. ft., $22 million
Pedigree: Situated amid a nature preserve just minutes from the city center, this stately vineyard château was constructed over the course of the 17th and 18th centuries for French nobility. Its historic interiors have yet to be restored, but the formal gardens are poised for leisurely promenades, thanks to the scenic axes, symmetrical boxwood parterres, and romantic fountains.
Property Values: An orangerie, chapel, stable turned garage, and caretaker’s house also occupy the 57-acre grounds, more than half of which are planted with government-certified vines with an annual 100,000-bottle yield of red and rosé.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Amazing Library Staircase and Balcony Surrounds
Round and round I go. Where I'll stop, nobody knows. Those pierced metal stairs look pretty tricky so I'll hold tight to the handrail. I have no idea where this library is located, but it's pretty amazing, isn't it? UPDATE: A reader identified this as the Law Library at the State Library of Iowa at the Des Moines, Iowa Capitol Building. Thank you!
Will You Summer in New England?
Vintage Travel Poster promoting The New Haven Railroad from the collection of the Boston Public Library. Great graphics.
Blue Door to A Secret Garden
I wish the arched blue door opening to a secret garden were open a little wider so I could see beyond the delphiniums.
Pet Hammock | Webster Wants One
Have you ever seen a more comfortable looking animal? I think not. Are you going to order a Pet Lounge for your favorite animal? Webster would love this but I have no more floor space. Let me know if you place an order for your lucky dog.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tea Towel Farmers Market Bags | DIY
Use tea towels and twine to make produce bags to take to the farmers market. Dirty vegetables? No problem. Just turn inside out, give them a shake or two and throw the bags in with the laundry. Such a great eco-friendly idea. via Green Wellies
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