Bella Vista

Feathered Nest Friday

Barb

Bedroom Table Vignette

2012-01-10T14:29:00.001-05:00

Romantic and Soft

Hello Friends, this is a small side table in the master bedroom that continues the Romantic Look I am leaning towards these days. In the bedroom, in particular, I don’t want much color….I find it more restful.

I covered the table with a white chenille bedspread. Since it is a king sized one, there was a LOT of tucking going on underneath the table. ;-) It gives such a soft and fuzzy feel to the room.

Of course, I had to include some roses in a Mason Jar….I just love this look!

This vintage plate was left to me by my mother in law….isn’t it soft? It is handpainted.

I also included one of my antique books. These are such treasures to me and I am always on the lookout for these small books when I shop for antiques.

Hope you enjoyed my table…..I will show more of the room as time progresses. Thanks so much for stopping by today.

Linking to:

Home and Garden Thursday

Between Naps on the Porch

Barb

Centerpiece Vignette

2012-01-08T15:35:00.001-05:00

A Light and Airy Look

Hello Everyone, I am slowly making my way through the house and changing things out for the New Year. I love Christmas but I am totally ready to leave it behind once it ends. I am ready for a lighter and softer look.

I found this lacy tray on Saturday with a slightly shabby look. I love trays and have them everywhere.

The tray provided the perfect place for simple white flowers in little clay pots. This is a look I never tire of.

The napkin ring is part of a Fitz and Floyd hummingbird set I have had for years.

This picture shows the lacy feeling of the tray. I have a set of the glass lanterns and just love them. They work well with so many things.

I hope you are having a wonderful weekend. The weather in Florida is gorgeous….I wait for this all year. Thanks so much for stopping by.

I am joining:

The House in the Roses

Barb

Romantic Mantel

2012-01-06T14:06:00.001-05:00

Returning to My Romantic Side

Hi Bloggy Friends, about a decade ago, my entire home was decorated in a romantic style…lots of pinks everywhere. I moved away from this style for a long time but now find I am returning. (I love change.) So slowly, little bit by little bit, I am incorporating pinks into our home again. Very, very soft pinks and lots of white. I am totally in love with white and plan on doing a LOT of furniture repainting this spring and summer. (Dear Lord, give me the energy.)

I am a ‘rose person.’ I just adore them and they are my birth flower. My husband gifted me with these last evening. The edges are ruffled and he wanted to know ‘what was wrong with them.’ Haha. I informed him they were supposed to be this way. I love that man!

This mantel is on the small electric fireplace I switched from the den to the dining room. It has such a cozy feeling in this room.

My favorite teacup….I wish I could find more of these.

Another note, my hubby wanted to know why in the world I would buy candlesticks (I have a pair of them) with the paint chipped off. Goodness, is he in for a surprise when I start knocking the paint off several pieces in our home. I am so blessed that he puts up with me. LOL :-)

Thanks ever so much for your visit.

I am joining:

Fresh Cut Friday

Pink Saturday

Feathered Nest Friday

Barb

Puttering

2012-01-05T11:15:00.001-05:00

Moving Things Around…Again

Hi Friends, I am at it….again. Moving things around, that is. My hutch in the kitchen is the target of one of the first changes in the house. I’m showing bits and pieces and will come back with the entire change a bit later. It takes about two weeks for me to get a design I am happy with.

I really enjoy placing some elegant items on this rustic Farmhouse hutch. I love the mix. I am also adding several of my pink milk glass pieces.

I found these smoky lavender chargers in Michaels and fell in love with the color….it is very unusual. I love anything with lavender hues. So soft.

Hope you are having fun whipping your homes back into shape after the holidays. It is a job, isn’t it? Whew!

Thanks so much for your visit.

Linking to:

Home and Garden Thursday

Barb

2012 ~ A Fresh New Year

2012-01-01T11:24:00.001-05:00

Living in the Moment or Thinking Ahead

Which do you do? Do you live in the moment or think ahead?

I do both but must admit I really enjoy thinking about and planning for what is coming up. I’m glad some of us are one way or the other or both. I think it would be dreadfully boring if we were all alike, don’t you?

My mind is already turning towards spring. I also want to note that I have seen dozens of blog posts talking about spring already…that is amazing. I have always been a fall gal but in these last few years, I have noticed a shifting in my feelings. For two Autumns now, I could hardly wait for the season to be over. I think we all change at one time or another.

Just doing a bit of reflecting today. Trying to get around and visit with all of you…I have missed my time blogging lately but needed the time away to get some things done.

I wish all the best for each of you in this new year.

Barb

Wishing You All A Happy New Year

2011-12-31T11:14:00.001-05:00

Thanks So Much for Being Such Lovely Friends

I wanted to take a minute to wish all of you, my dear Bloggy Friends, a happy, healthy and blessed New Year! Thanks so much for all your visits to Bella Vista and a special thanks to those who take the time to leave comments….I know this is especially difficult when we all have so many demands on our time. It is appreciated!

So many of you have become dear to me….I feel as though I know you and that is the very best part of blogging.

Forgive me for not being around much these days….I am just knee-deep in work and projects. My husband received (from me….Mrs. Santa….shhhhhh) the large cherry executive desk he has wanted for his study for a long time. We had the guest bed in his study and it had to go, so that meant reworking the den into the new guest room. Now, we will watch telly in the family room….which is too large for my liking to watch television…..so I am working on making it cozy…..a BIG job. Are you confused yet? Haha.

Also making changes (big and small) in every other room in our cottage (even the sun porch) except the kitchen and the bathrooms…..I am bone weary but so happy with all the new changes…..feels like a new house. :-)

May 2012 be all you want it to be.

Barb

Hope Your Christmas Was Wonderful

2011-12-26T16:46:00.001-05:00

Another Christmas has Come and Gone!

Hi Bloggy Friends, just a quick post to touch base. I do hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas filled with peace, joy and love.

Are you stuffed from all the delicious food? How was your weather? We had the warmest Christmas I can remember in a long time. We spent the afternoon sitting on the sun porch watching the birds (and boats) on the lake. We had eggnog during the evening….and just relaxed with some neighbors. It was wonderful.

I have been looking around at all the pretty decorations today and admiring them but have decided to take them down tomorrow. I’m ready for a fresh start….how about you?

Barb

Merry Christmas

2011-12-20T15:45:00.000-05:00

From Our House to Yours…Merry Christmas

Dear Bloggy Friends, I am wishing you a very Merry Christmas.

I hope your Christmas is filled with joy, many blessings and peace.

This will be my final post before Christmas. I have so much to do…as I am sure you do also. Lots of cookies to bake, wrapping gifts, neighbor goodie boxes to make and on and on…..I love it all!

All of you, my sweet friends, are a big part of my life. Thank you for your friendship.

Linking to:

Between Naps on the Porch

Merry Christmas!

Barb

Roses in the Snow

2011-12-16T15:52:00.001-05:00

Quiet Moments in the House

Hi Friends, I wanted to share my pink roses with you. They speak to my very soul and tell me to slow down and enjoy all the sweet moments associated with the season.

I smell cookies in the oven….yummy. I hear Christmas music softly playing in the background and I hear my kitty cat playing in the paper that I will be using to wrap my packages with. Haha.

I am reflective today…..as much as I love this season, I also miss the long and lazy days of summer and sitting on the porch after dinner. Good grief, I am definitely soulful today! :-) I have the shopping under control….such a relief! Everything is pretty much done…..except planning for the big dinner on Christmas day.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and save a bit of time for yourself and some peace and quiet.

Thanks for your visits always.

Barb

Christmas Treats and Sweets

2011-12-14T14:41:00.001-05:00

Taking a Little Time for Me

Yes, I have been in the kitchen….again….making treats. I made some chocolate covered cookie sticks this morning and decided to treat myself to a couple with a cup of tea. No, I am not eating all those! They just make the picture look pretty, don’t they. ;-)

I won’t be around much for the next few days….I really have to hit the decks with my Christmas shopping. I am running dreadfully behind in this area for this year. Yikes! I know what I want and that is half the battle, isn’t it? Just have to brave the crowds and find it.

Hope you are having fun with all your Christmas plans and preparations. See you soon.

Barb

Christmas Coffee Table

2011-12-13T14:02:00.001-05:00

In Vibrant Color

Hi Everyone, this Christmas coffee table is the result of a special request from my darling husband. Just about everything I have done for Christmas is in soft colors and neutrals. He specifically asked for some ‘color’….and this fits the bill, wouldn’t you say? ;-)

My Byers Choice Carolers are running over with gorgeous Christmas greens and reds. This is the Lamplighter and the Wreath Maker….two of my favorites. They were birthday gifts to me several years ago.

I must admit…it is a joy to go into this room. I get blind-sided at times and tend to do ‘all the same thing’ everywhere! Anyway, it makes my hubby smile and that is all that matters.

I am finished decorating…..I think I said that about three or four days ago. I am truly laughing out loud. Thanks for coming by.

Barb

Christmas Tea Tray

2011-12-12T15:28:00.001-05:00

A Quiet Time to Reflect on the Season

Hi Everyone, I had a chance to share tea with one of my sweet neighbors yesterday. It was such a quiet time in the midst of all the Christmas plans….very welcomed, indeed!

I am doing so much baking that I don’t know what to do with it all. My husband’s office and our surrounding neighbors are all broadly smiling because I am stuffing them with cakes and cookies. I love to bake anytime but during Christmas, it just ‘calls to me.’

How about a bite of Christmas cake?

This was my first Christmas china. I have had it for years and actually don’t even remember where I purchased it. I love Christmas dishes and have several sets, now.

Aren’t these napkin rings sweet?

I hope your days are going smoothly and that you are enjoying the season and the process. We all need to take a bit of time to sit and have tea or coffee and reflect. This time passes so quickly.

The house is quiet at present and magical with all the lights. May we all know the true spirit of Christmas….the peace and the love. Thanks so much for your visit.

Linking to and sharing with:

Rose Chintz Cottage

A Stroll Thru Life

Barb

Den Mantel for Christmas

2011-12-12T09:15:00.000-05:00

Keeping it Soft

Hi Friends, how is your decorating coming along? Mine is finally finished and I started early. Good grief….LOL.

This is our den mantel. Our den is small and probably our favorite room in our room. It is saved just for us…and seems really special. I kept the colors toned down this year but my husband is not too up for it. He loves color so I let him decorate the exterior of our home. You should see it….it is VERY colorful. Haha.

I am so into silver this year. I just love it!

Can you believe two weeks is all we have left until Christmas? I am in some kind of a time warp because I cannot wrap my head around that fact!

Thanks so much for stopping by.

Linking to and sharing with:

The House in the Roses

Barb

Christmas Vignette

2011-12-08T15:45:00.000-05:00

A Smile on My Kitchen Island

Hi Everyone…I had a chance to rest a bit. Loved all the responses to my other post….seems a lot of you feel the same way about being a bit overwhelmed. Whew!

This vignette sits on my kitchen counter and never fails to bring a smile to my face when I enter this room. I think the fact that it is whimsical is the reason. The small tree, which I adore, is perfect for this room.

I found this adorable Chef Santa in Michaels a few weeks ago. There is something about chef santas that I cannot pass up. They seem so jolly and happy to me. :-)

How about some Christmas candy? I love the colorful foil wrappers….yes, I do think there is a LOT of little girl still left in me. LOL

This old and vintage silver tray always sits on this counter…..I love it! I love silver trays, in general, but this one is my favorite. There is something about it that ‘speaks’ to me.

I am a Slatkin and Co. candle lover…..I can’t get enough of these wonderful candles. The scents are fabulous.

I hope you are enjoying your days of decorating. Are you finished?

I always appreciate your visits to Bella Vista and your comments. I love reading them.

Linking to and sharing with:

My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia

Feathered Nest Friday

Barb

Too Many Ideas

2011-12-06T11:20:00.001-05:00

The Possibilities are Endless

Don’t know about you, but I am mind boggled at all the wonderful ideas and decorating possibilities displayed in Blogland. I keep changing things in little bits and I am just exhausted….so I am taking the afternoon to have a little break. Getting a fresh and new haircut always gives me a wee vacation. :-)

The weather is almost spring like with really mild temps but all the Christmas decorations are out in full force. I love seeing the lights in the evening. Makes me feel like a kid again.

Hope your decorating is coming along smoothly and that you are giving yourselves little breaks now and then. We all need them.

Happy Tuesday!

Barb

A Woodland Christmas Mantel

2011-12-05T11:04:00.001-05:00

The Woodsy & Natural Side of the Holidays

Hello Everyone, please come in and see my family room Woodland Mantel.

This is something I have wanted to do for a long time. I am very much into natural elements these days and I have always loved the Lodge Look. I love the warmth and welcoming ‘feel’ of this design.

I love my faux antlers that I snapped up at The Pottery Barn.

This deer is made of actual tree bark and is so fragile.

My happy little Woodland Santa.

I hope you enjoyed my mantel. I really enjoyed putting it together. Thanks so much for your visit.

Linking to and sharing with:

From My Front Porch to Yours

Southern Hospitality

Savvy Southern Style

Ivy and Elephants

Barb

Happy Weekend

2011-12-02T12:07:00.001-05:00

Such a Busy Time of Year

Can you believe there are only 23 days till Christmas? I cannot…time is flying past, isn’t it?

I will be baking this weekend and doing some shopping. I can’t seem to stay out of the kitchen during Christmas. I especially love baking and making goodies for the neighbors. I am on a mission to fatten them all up. (*just kidding*) I’m concentrating on candy this weekend and bar cookies. Yum!

Hoping you have a wonderful and productive weekend.

Barb

Crystal Trees and Cupcakes

2011-12-01T12:01:00.001-05:00

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

My internet service has been down and it is amazing how much I have gotten done. I sometimes don’t realize how much time I spend on the computer. Yikes!

I have collected these glass (crystal) trees for thirty years….I have a lot more. They are heavy, heavy and perfect for Christmas decorating of any kind. Don’t know if they are still made as I stopped collecting them some years ago…out of space.

The top two pictures are from my Christmas Kitchen Hutch.

How’s your decorating coming along? I’m working on a woodland mantel….different and a fun new idea for me.

Also made some (2 dozen) sweet little Christmasy cupcakes. Want one? ;-)

Linking to and sharing with:

What's It Wednesday

Rock 'N Share

Barb

Holly and Silver Tablescape

2011-11-29T13:47:00.001-05:00

Setting a Table with Quiet Color

Hello Everyone, in looking back over my Christmas tables, I noticed that most of them are drenched in color…so I decided to create a quieter one for this setting. I have noticed, in general, I seem to gravitate towards softer colors these days.

I took creative license with the centerpiece knowing one can’t see around it. I have a smaller vase of flowers I will display when the table is ‘actually’ used.

I purchased this Christmas china at Home Goods a couple of years ago and actually forgot I had it until cleaning out my dish cabinet. Is that awful or what?!

I am really into silver these days. I have always been a gold girl but silver seems lighter and more reflective to me. I just love it. The flatware is Reed & Barton. Snowflake napkin rings are from Hobby Lobby.

I have had the crystal stemware for many years.

I flipped when I saw this pair of silver candlesticks in Marshalls. Can you fall in love with candlesticks? Haha.

I added the little trees for a touch of whimsy and also because I like my centerpiece ‘filled up.’ I bet you never guessed that, did you? :-)

Hope you liked my table and many thanks for your visit today.

Linking to and sharing with:

Barb

A Spot of Christmas Tea

2011-11-28T16:02:00.001-05:00

Please Join Me

Hi Friends, we are due for some rain and it is an overcast day in Florida…cooler weather is on its way. This is a perfect day for a spot of tea and some cake. Please join me.

This is a made-from-scratch sour cream pound cake that is not for the faint of heart. Haha. It is rich and delicious and has a jillion calories…..who’s counting? ;-) The recipe is from one of the Gooseberry books; I have made it several times for neighbors and friends and it always receives rave reviews.

I have had these teacups forever and just love them!

I allow a lot of my glaze to do down onto the plate. This cake is just too rich combined with a lot of icing….in fact, it doesn’t need any but I have a sweet husband that won’t eat cake without frosting. (Hope he doesn’t see this….!)

I am in such a cooking mode….happens every year around this time. I am reading about five cookbooks all at the same time. Help! I’ll send most of the desserts to my husband’s office…just too tempting to leave them in our kitchen. LOL

Thanks for coming by today.

Linking to and sharing with:

Barb

My Christmas Kitchen Hutch

2011-11-26T17:32:00.001-05:00

The Touches of Christmas…

Scroll Down for Completed Christmas Kitchen Hutch

Hi Friends, I hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful. Did you eat too much? Isn’t that what it is all about…and being thankful for all we have. We all have so much.

I am starting on my kitchen farmhouse hutch which is my favorite thing to decorate. I am doing something a bit different this year….I am decorating it in bits and pieces….in other words, this is a start. It is nowhere nearly finished. I have always felt that good design evolves and so it is doing just that with my hutch. LOL

Right now, I don’t want many things on it but in a week or so….it will be ‘stuffed.’ I want to think about what I am doing and enjoy it to the hilt instead of ‘just decorating.’ Does that make any sense? My husband just rolled his eyes when I told him I was doing this…..haha….he has lived with me for many years. :-)

Anyway….I hope you are enjoying your Christmas decorating.

So far, I have only put up two trees. Aren’t you proud of me? Yay!!!! :-)

Barb

This is the finished hutch design…I moved some things, took some things away and added others. I am happy with it. :-)

A Blessed Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T16:22:00.001-05:00

Sending Good Wishes to You

Sending Thanksgiving Wishes to all of you….my dear Bloggy Friends.

Don’t know why but I am having a LOT of problems with posts and commenting. Yikes!

I will be off for a few days….so much to do. I know you are busy, too. Sending blessings and love.

Barb

Snowman Tablescape

2011-11-21T11:28:00.001-05:00

I Can Dream, Can’t I?

Hello Friends, I love snowmen! I love snow! I wouldn’t want to live in it but I love it anyway. :-) As you already know, we don’t have much of it in Florida. LOL

I wanted to set up a table for our neighbors….something different. I think they will really enjoy this.

I am working on Thanksgiving and Christmas….so I am on slight overload. Going to spend the afternoon sitting down and doing some reading and let the million things I have to do…………..go!

Wishing you a blessed and happy Thanksgiving. My thanks to you for your wonderful visits to Bella Vista. I appreciate each and everyone of YOU!

Snowman Family…gift from a friend, Trees & Ice Scatters…Michaels, Chargers…Home Goods, Plates…Big Lots, Snowman Plates…TJ Maxx, Flatware…Reed & Barton, Glassware and Napkin Rings… Old Time Pottery, Napkins…Bed Bath and Beyond.

Linking to and sharing with:

Tabletop Tuesday

Barb

Ready to Start

2011-11-17T09:30:00.001-05:00

Goodbye Organization for a Little While

I am ready to start…..Christmas decorating, that is. The one thing I don’t like about it is the disorganization of the house for about three days. Alexandra Stoddard says….”You must make a mess to create beauty.” I’ll go along with that. LOL

I have purchased a new slim tree for the den…the old one was falling apart…and an urn tree for the family room. That is already one more tree than I said I would decorate about a week ago. Help!!!! Haha

I am hoping good sense prevails and I don’t put up the nine-footer in the Living Room……no way! I have my working jeans on and it is time to get at it!!!!!!

Hoping your Christmas decorating goes swimmingly…..whenever you start. Also, have a great weekend.

Add on: Just popping in for a quick hello. I am knee-deep in boxes and ‘stuff.’ I cannot find my white satin ball ornaments. Where did I put them????? Acckkkkkk! Do you ever do this kind of thing?

I am so glad I started decorating early….my hubby and I are already planning what we will do with the first two weekends in December since we won’t be spending them buried in Christmas decorations.

Now, I must remember to put the turkey in the fridge to thaw……..!

Happy weekend everyone.

Barb

My Thanksgiving Table

2011-11-15T19:55:00.000-05:00

A Work From the Heart

Hello Everyone, welcome in to my Thanksgiving table. I set it up in the family room as opposed to the dining room…we always seem to do this. This way we can look at the lake. :-)

It is no secret that I adore Thanksgiving. It is, by far, my favorite holiday. This day is centered on being thankful and seems much less stressed to me.

I am turning into a nature lover and these dishes simply spoke to my heart. Each piece displays a different animal, duck or bird.

The pheasant dinner plate.

The mugs to the set…also shown in the tea post below this one.

One side of my centerpiece. My husband cannot believe I love the deer antlers. I am mad for them and hunted for a month to find just the right ones.

The other side of the centerpiece.

I just love the antler flatware and since I could not find the right napkin rings….I did as I often do, I made my own! Also, and I did not show this well….but I love a napkin inside a napkin; it gives such an ‘abundant’ feel to the presence of the table.

Thanks so much for coming over to see my table. Hopefully, I will get another chance but if I do not….I wish each and everyone of you a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving.

Pheasants…Hobby Lobby, Faux Antlers…Pottery Barn, Candle Stick (wrapped in burlap)…Hobby Lobby, Chargers…Home Goods, Dinnerware…Tuesday Morning, Antler Flatware…Bass Pro Shops, Glassware…Old Time Pottery, Placemats…Tuesday morning, Runner…two of my house scarves.

I am linking to and sharing with:

Tea Pot and Tea Things Tuesday

Barb

A Little Quiet Time

2011-11-14T10:56:00.001-05:00

With a Lovely Cup of Tea

Hi Everyone, I’m ready for some quiet time after a busy, busy weekend. How about you?

I set up a little tea vignette in the corner of the family room and baked some mini bundt cakes. I actually baked ten of these but my husband ran off with five for his office. I guess his co-workers must love me. Haha.

We have these beautiful ducks on our lake so I fell in love with the mugs. I will be using the matching dinnerware in a Thanksgiving tablescape in a few days….hopefully.

So delicious with tea or coffee or hot chocolate. Yum!

I’d had this teapot for years. The simplicity of it always speaks to me. Love it.

I always love tea and even drink it in the heat of summer. It seems to ‘center’ me and help me relax. Thanks so much for popping in today!

I am linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Faded Glory

2011-11-10T11:41:00.001-05:00

The Soft Beauty of Age

If you are a regular reader of Bella Vista, you already know I love and adore roses. They are not only beautiful but truly speak to the ‘inner’ me….they feed my spirit.

These roses are eight days old! I have never had any to last this long although I do usually make them last about six days. Yes, they are fading and becoming softer in appearance but I cannot take my eyes off them. There is something about their faded beauty that is so breathtaking.

There is beauty and grace in anything aging….we are so forgetful of that in our dear country.

I placed them in one of my vintage pink milk glass pieces. Actually, this piece was the very first one I ever collected and I won’t mention what I paid for it compared to the cost today. Yikes! So glad I collected ‘back then.’ LOL It is pink and not white….the color is very subdued and again, I photographed it in a room flooded with light…I keep forgetting not to do that. ;-)

One of the things I love about Blogland is that older things….whatever they may be….seem to be treasured. I sure don’t see much of that in real life.

Thanks so much for coming by.

Linking to and sharing with:

ADD ON: I have had several requests asking where I purchased the Victorian Mr. and Mrs. Claus on my left sidebar. They were a gift from my husband in 1992 and are a limited edition by Ken Memoli. You will have to check the secondary market. Hope this helps.

Barb

Tea and a Cupcake

2011-11-09T10:46:00.001-05:00

Wish I Could Give You a Bite

Hi Friends, I’m off to the porch with a stack of holiday magazines and a planning pad. The weather is so beautiful and the air is crisp and clean. Yay….waited a long time for this. ;-)

I made these cupcakes last evening and a LOT more for my husband’s office. I am fattening them all up this year with my baked goodies. They seem to love it.

I get just one….you can have the other. LOL

See you all in a bit. So much to do today. Hope you have a great day!

Barb

Different Mode This Year

2011-11-08T11:08:00.001-05:00

We All Change, Don’t We?

Well, I never thought I would see the day that I would be tired of decorating for Fall, but I am! Fall is probably the longest season I decorate for and I am just finished with it for this year. I suppose we all change….I know that I do. Ha.

I am ready to start on Christmas and this is just blowing me away! I used to be so adamant about the fact that one did not decorate for Christmas until after Thanksgiving. Then for two weeks…it is a mad dash to get it all up and arranged and then it all comes down about two weeks after that. Whoa…..that is just too much for me and I find that I don’t have the chance to ‘really’ enjoy it.

But…..I want this Christmas toned down; just one tree. Do you think I can do it? I put up four trees last year and taking it all down was a bummer. I am just not one of those folks that takes the holiday into January. I want a fresh and clean start on January 1st. Is there a twelve step program for Christmas aholics? LOL.

Change is good….I’d heard that, anyway.

Now, where do I place that one tree? Shhhhhh, I didn’t promise anything about numbers. Not one little thing. Hehehe

Barb

Family Room Coffee Table

2011-11-06T16:35:00.001-05:00

Making a Few Changes and a New Vignette

Hi…I’m really having fun changing things out for Fall this year. I made some changes to the family room coffee table and this is about the third vignette I have created so far. This season goes by too quickly for me and I am trying to enjoy it to the fullest.

I found this marvelous fellow in Hobby Lobby (I love that store) and he just said “take me home.” So I did! Ha. Just think how great he will be for Christmas, too.

I’m already working on my Thanksgiving tablescape and that will be my last Autumn post for this year.

Hope you had a wonderful weekend. Thanks for stopping by.

I am linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Have a Great Weekend

2011-11-04T09:09:00.001-04:00

Be Sure and Have Some Fun

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend. We are off to some Fall Festivals…I cannot wait. So many wonderful things to see and do during these weeks.

See you all later.

I so totally could not help it but I had to include this snowglobe I found at Hobby Lobby. I know it is a bit early to display this, but I cannot help myself. LOL……♥

Barb

Impromptu Fall Buffet

2011-11-03T13:21:00.001-04:00

Just a Little Gathering with Neighbors

Hello, please come in to my little impromptu buffet. We are blessed to have very nice neighbors and I am known for sharing my desserts with all the houses around us. I love to bake and if we ate all these goodies ourselves I would be huge. ;-)

I love Thanksgiving and look for any excuse to bring out the turkeys. Yay! I have to laugh at myself…I slammed my cake pans on the counter to take out the air bubbles and obviously I need to slam harder…see the little air bubble hole. It is absolutely delicious, though……spice cake. Yum!

I love my plaid fabric pumpkins….remember, I am ‘plaid happy.’

I have had these amber turkeys for years and don’t remember where I purchased them. I think it was somewhere in Georgia. Yikes!

Thanks for sharing my sweet time with me. I wish I could share my cake with all of you.

I am linking to and sharing with:

Barb

A Quick and Happy Hello

2011-11-02T15:39:00.001-04:00

Hope Your Day is Wonderful

Hello dear friends, just popping in for a quick hello. I am absolutely swamped with errands and holiday planning as I am sure you are. Isn’t this a most exciting time of the year? The weather is deliciously perfect in Florida….months of humidity have given way to crisp and cool hours. I love it.

I grabbed these roses at the grocery store. Aren’t they just breathtaking?

I’m making lists and organizing myself. Lists are something I don’t like as a general rule but find them most helpful during this time of year. I am burning a Salty Caramel candle and planning away. The air is crisp and beautiful….I have the windows open….what more could one ask for?

I’m working on a tablescape….life is, indeed, good.

Sending you my blessings this beautiful day.

Barb

No Speeding Ahead

2011-11-01T10:33:00.001-04:00

Slowing Down and Thinking It Out

We have now entered November…my favorite month but also the month that marks the beginning of the holiday season. Just think of all the wonderful celebrations ahead and until the end of the year.

I am determined to slow down a bit and really enjoy it this year…being ordered really helps. So, out come the lists and the planning. I am excited.

I am in a cooking mode and will spend a few days digging out new recipes and I have a new Kitchen Aid stand mixer on its way…..so exciting! Of course, that means the entire kitchen has to be rearranged. It is a sickness. Ha. :-)

Hoping your day is filled with plans of the best kind.

Barb

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T12:07:00.001-04:00

Halloween Greetings to All My Bloggy Friends

I’m getting my treat bags ready…how about you?

It is raining cats and dogs but hopefully will clear and since there is no sunshine, I have my little candy corn lights on. You can see just a bit of them in the upper right hand corner of the picture. We hung them around our sun porch and they are so festive. I am just a big kid. Ha. ;-)

Yummy treat bags….I have tons more to go. Whew!

Wishing you a safe and happy Halloween.

Barb

Thinking Ahead Just a Bit ~ Little Changes

2011-10-31T10:45:00.000-04:00

My Farmhouse Hutch and Changes for Thanksgiving

Hi Friends, what a busy weekend it was….running errands, shopping, changing things out and watching college football. I dearly love this time of year.

This is a peek at the changes I have made in the kitchen hutch for Thanksgiving. This is a huge piece of furniture and a favorite for seasonal changes. Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday…I just adore it.

How about some turkey and a piece of pumpkin pie? Two of my beloved Byers Carolers.

This is a Slatkin and Co. candle….Salty Caramel. Wonderful! I have already burned one almost to the bottom.

I have had the little Hallmark salt and pepper shakers since the 70’s. I just love them and have them on display every Thanksgiving.

The pheasant dishes are new and I will have a tablescape displaying these very soon.

Hope you are having a glorious Monday

Linking to and sharing with:

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

Barb

Autumn Leaves Tablescape

2011-10-25T21:45:00.000-04:00

Hello Friends, welcome in to my cozy Autumn Tablescape. You already know these are my favorite ones to create.

I found these wonderful acorn dishes at Home Goods and a table idea instantly formed.

The flatware is golden and you can see this better in the picture above.

I used faux antlers on either side of the basket. I am so in love with ‘natural’ elements these days and keeping everything casual but elegant.

Thanks for popping in….really hope you liked my table.

Fall is passing too quickly….I am in shock! Never have I seen a month pass as quickly as this one has. But, my favorite month is coming up and I am so looking forward to it. Hope you have a wonderful day.

Linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Autumn Tea Tray

2011-10-24T13:40:00.001-04:00

With a mix of casual and elegant

Hello everyone…I am taking a spot of tea to the porch with a friend. As you can see, I love mixing very casual things with elegant elements. I think it makes a much more interesting vignette and is so unexpected.

This is a newly acquired silver tray. I am so into silver these days….just love it. The mugs are Lenox and I really adore them which is unusual since I am not a mug person on the whole. (That sounds funny, doesn’t it?)

I have had the silver acorn napkin rings for a while and you will always see lots of plaids on Bella Vista. I am ‘plaid happy.’

The frosted sugar cookies are out of this world….I purchased these as I am too busy making cupcakes for my husband’s office…..yes, again, this week. Whew! :-)

Spiced Orange Tea.

A little Halloween reading with our tea from Susan Branch’s Autumn book. I love her.

The weather is wonderful. I actually have the family room windows, leading to the sun porch, open today. That is a rare thing for us in Florida….for me, anyway. Now, I’m off to the porch with my tea. Thanks so much for coming by. I hope you are having a wonderful day.

Linking to and sharing with:

Teapot and Tea Things Tuesday

Barb

Hooooo Loves Fall ~ I do, I do

2011-10-23T11:13:00.001-04:00

Ideas Floating Around

Do you ever find one thing….just one thing that spurs your imagination and gets you going?

I do…all the time.

When I saw this little owl (about 5”) yesterday, I knew I had to do what I have wanted to do for a long time…have a tree decorated in the Lodge Theme this year. As girly and pink as I can be…I also love anything made of natural elements and…geese, ducks, a big ole moose and log cabins.

This little fellow is made of half a pine cone, twigs and has a furry breast. I just fell in love with him…so I think I am now on a quest to collect decorations for a den tree in the Lodge Look. Won’t my husband just fall over? He is so used to bows, glitter and satin ornaments for Christmas…..ha, can’t wait to see his reaction. :-)

I hope you are having a wonderful weekend.

Barb

Halloween Carolers and Happy Weekend

2011-10-21T11:41:00.001-04:00

Not the least bit scary…

Can you believe this month is passing so quickly….where in the world did October go? I am just struck that it is almost time for Halloween! Yikes.

My Halloween Carolers are singing the praises of October and making me happy each time I see them. I tried to photograph them so you could see the hats in the mirror.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Ours is packed…why do we always have so much to do? Ha. We have resisted buying a couple of pumpkins because it has been so warm but now it is cool…..wonderfully cool, so off to the pumpkin patch we are going. Also, doing tons of baking this weekend…..oh, I love it. Oh, yes, and stringing candy corn mini lights around the porch…….pure cuteness!

Barb

Cupcake Baking and Decorating

2011-10-20T13:55:00.001-04:00

Oh, the house smells so good!

I have friends coming over for tea this afternoon and I thought I would bake some cupcakes. I really love cupcakes…they bring out the child in me.

I did some simple decorating for a Halloween theme. I had to include some coconut cupcakes since I especially love those. My hubby hates coconut…so I don’t bake with it usually. I did this time. Ha. :-)

I found this adorable stand in Marshalls. I am not a spider fan but this one was too cute to pass up.

This one is for me…..the whole thing. All of it….yes siree!!!!!!

The witch is part of a set…the smaller one is in the post below this one.

The weather is finally cooler and absolutely delicious. We will sit on the porch with Spice Tea and a cupcake and chatter away. Life is good.

Always thanks for your kind visit.

I am linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Halloween Tablescape

2011-10-19T12:06:00.001-04:00

Having a little Halloween fun

Hi….welcome to my Halloween tablescape. I wanted something a bit quieter and a tad on the whimsical side this year. I am happy with the results. Halloween is a big deal in our household….my husband and I are bigger kids than the children coming around. Ha. :-)

I added pieces of black netting to the napkins and glasses and also used it in the centerpiece. I like the ‘floaty’ feel it gives to the table.

We are actually using this tablescape on Friday evening. I can’t wait. :-)

Black Chargers…Southern Hospitality, plates…Home Goods, Flatware…Bed Bath and Beyond, Napkins…Old Time Pottery, Witch…Jean Bice Collection QVC, Acorns…Michaels, Fabric Pumpkin…local gift shop.

Thanks so much for your visit today…really hope you liked my Halloween Table.

I am linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Getting Ready for Halloween

2011-10-17T11:24:00.001-04:00

Candy, candy…where is the candy?

I love Halloween and it is truly one of my favorite holidays. The little children that come to our house, and there are usually a LOT of them, are always so darling in their costumes….some really step forward and others are very shy…always adorable.

We just about always deck out our little front porch…I will take pictures and play scary, spooky music and we have lots of really good candy! The problem is my hubby eats a lot of it before Halloween. He is one of those people who can eat candy without getting fat or getting headaches. Can you stand it?! ;-)

Do you sneak a bit of candy before Halloween? I never do…yikes! I cannot fib…yes, I do. Ha.

Have a wonderful week. I’m working on a Halloween Tablescape but seem to be sidetracked with too many other things these days. Isn’t this month just flying by? I’m really behind in my visiting….will be around soon.

Thanks for your visit today.

Linking to and sharing with:

Mosaic Monday

Barb

A Quick Hello & A Little Fall Vignette

2011-10-10T16:40:00.001-04:00

A Little Change in the Kitchen

Hi Everyone, just popping in for a quick hello. I feel like my blogging time is really off these days. I am doing some cleaning and general puttering around the house. Our Fall decorating seems to have a more gentle spirit this year and seems much quieter in our home…..I like that.

It rained all weekend in Florida and we had some awful wind gusts so I will be working in the yard for a day or so. No complaining though….anytime we don’t have a hurricane, I feel totally blessed.

I’m making Fall cookies for my husband’s office. I got some new leaf and acorn cookie cutters and they are so cute. Also trying to make Halloween cupcakes. I’m working on a Fall tablescape on the dining table in the family room and a Halloween tablescape in the dining room. You should see the faces of neighbors coming over. I think they think I am slightly nutty. Ha. :-)

I hope you are doing well and enjoying this beautiful Autumn season.

Barb

This and That & Happy Weekend

2011-10-07T12:02:00.001-04:00

Cooking, Tweaking and Playing

Hello Bloggy Friends, wow, have I been busy….just like you! So much to do this time of the year. I’ve been digging out my Fall candles and have one burning almost all the time. Do you?

Also getting ready to do a little Halloween decorating and working on a Halloween Tablescape. Halloween is actually one of my very favorite holidays. I love the whimsical side of it

Most of my recent time has been spent cooking….I am in one of those moods. Yikes…..bar the door!

During these weeks I enjoy taking my recipes for the holidays and tweaking them just a bit. This is my recipe for old fashioned cornbread dressing/stuffing and it is ready to be popped into the oven. It is such a simple looking dish but oh my, it is involved! Everything in this dish is made from scratch including my homemade stock. I don’t skimp on butter or anything else for the holidays….we certainly don’t eat like this all the year long so I go all out. ;-)

I put in a Home Alone DVD and turn the a/c down and just cook away…..such fun!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend. All the Fall Festivals are in full swing. Yahoooo!

Barb

New Tray ~ Lots of Decorating Options

2011-10-04T15:37:00.001-04:00

Perfect for Now…Perfect for Later

Is it possible to be a tray addict? Well, then…I am one! I love trays….they are decorative and help keep everything in order.

This is my newest find. I just had a fit over it; it simply spoke to my heart. My husband thinks that is so funny. :-) It is just the perfect color for my decorating for the present season but it could easily be painted for the spring and summer. I love pieces, like this, that have lots of options.

I’m off…..baking a spice cake for dinner and making chili. Yum. It is a tad cooler in our area and goodness, I am so happy about it.

Hope you are having a wonderful day.

Linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Mikey ~ Spoiled Dog

2011-10-03T14:26:00.001-04:00

The Life and Times of My Furry Friend

Over the weekend, my husband placed a chaise in my studio for me to take a quick nap if the opportunity presented itself. I am suffering from sleep deprivation and my doctor suggested I sleep ‘when I can.’

Well, you can see who has occupied my chaise and also…….note that he isn’t on the towel that I provided to protect my furniture. Accckkkkkkk!

Could you move this little thing?! Boy, it is tough when you are in love with your little doggie.

So, off to the bed I go……when I have moved a zillion pillows that is. Troubles, troubles. Ha. (*wink*)

Hope your day is sweet.

Barb

Oh, How I Love Fall

2011-10-02T19:27:00.001-04:00

The Delights of an Autumn Mantel

Hi Friends, okay, I’m at it again….playing with another mantel. They are my favorite places to decorate and I get lots of practice since we have four in our dear old cottage. Our home is a ‘mix’ of things that make us happy. There is no particular rhyme or reason to my decorating as you already know if you are a regular reader of Bella Vista. I decorate to make my husband and myself happy.

Again, I wanted to keep this mantel very soft in color. I mixed silver with burlap…..who else does that? I love it! I have reawakened my love for silver these days. I am just passionate for it. :-)

I found these delightful green pumpkins in Michaels at fifty percent off….they were begging to be thrown in my cart. Hehe.

I am having such a good time decorating this Fall. I just feel so much more relaxed and less stressed about it because I am allowing it to ‘just happen.’ How about you….how is your Fall decorating coming along?

Always….thanks for your visits. They are so much appreciated by me.

I am linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Busy Weekend Planned

2011-09-30T11:55:00.001-04:00

Birthdays and Other Things

Hi Everyone…I’m taking a couple days off to get some work done and of course, celebrate my husband’s birthday on Saturday. Did I tell you he is going on five *wink* and wants a cake, ice cream and the whole nine yards. :-) Truthfully, I hope he keeps his wonderful and young spirit forever. It is a total gift for me!

I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Are you watching any football? I am a college football big ole fan! Go Gators! Have a fun time.

Soon you next week.

Barb

The Glory of Autumn Tablescape

2011-09-28T18:00:00.000-04:00

The Joy of Dining in the Fall

Hello Friends, so glad you joined me today. Time to share another Autumn Table with you. I get so excited creating these tables…..Fall is my favorite time of the year and even though we don’t have a lot of Fall in Florida, I have an abundance of the season in my heart and imagination. :-)

I worked hard to keep this tablescape quiet and calm but couldn’t resist placing a tiny pumpkin (real) in one of the bowls. Just that little touch of orange is magical to me.

I used burlap pieces again….I am so in love with this fabric and have never used it although I sewed for years. I love the texture it gives to vignettes and tables.

I love the little white pumpkins.

My pine cone flatware that I just love. It is really heavy and my husband just loves it as much as I do. He smiled because it isn’t covered with flowers. ;-)

During Fall, I love flower arrangements with lots of reeds and natural elements in them. I took parts of two old arrangements and redid them into this new one. I always feel so good about doing something like this.

Chargers: Home Goods, Black and White Plates: TJ Maxx, White Plates and Bowls: Big Lots, Napkins: Old Time Pottery, Runner: Scarf from Walmart, Garland, leaves and natural elements: Michaels, Flatware: Bass Pro Shops, Glasses: I can’t remember (ha)

I really hope you enjoyed my table. Thank you for your kind visits and comments!

I am linking to and sharing with:

Barb

A Moment to Breathe

2011-09-26T16:07:00.001-04:00

Taking a Bit of Tea Time

To say I am busy these days would be putting it mildly. Autumn seems to speed things up for me…so much to do and plan for. But, for now, I am taking a tea break. Please join me.

I am American born and so proud of it but a part of my heart belongs to, and always has, England. I look forward to the Victoria edition on England every year.

I won’t eat all that cinnamon bun. Ha. I have a Cocker and a Yorkie who will help me. They only get teeny tiny little bits. ;-)

This blue and white teacup is among my favorites….heheh, oh, goodness, I love all my teacups. What pleasure it is to drink from a beautiful cup and saucer. To stop for a few minutes and reflect. Pure bliss.

I am linking to and sharing with:

A Return to Loveliness

Barb

Fall Comes to the Kitchen Hutch

2011-09-25T15:01:00.001-04:00

Seasonal Changes in the Kitchen

I spent part of Saturday redoing one of my favorite pieces of furniture in our home….a large Country/Farmhouse hutch in the kitchen. This hutch just begs to be redone for the holidays and different seasons….it has lots of room to display items.

This was the way I had it decorated for the summer and must admit as much as I love Fall, I was sorry to take this apart. I’m so sentimental. ;-)

I have tried much harder this year to stay away from intense colors but found this quite impossible with this hutch. It just seems to be happiest when dressed in beautiful Autumn colors. I used pieces of burlap and find that I just adore this material….it is so earthy.

I am a Gooseberry cookbook lover and have most of them. I dearly love these cookbooks

More of my beloved Autumn Byers Carolers.

This prim Harvest doll was made by a special friend….I will always cherish it.

My pine cone flatware that I will be using in a tablescape very soon. ;-)

I hope you enjoyed my hutch….I had a ball putting it together. Thanks so much for your visit.

I am linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Happy Fall

2011-09-23T21:30:00.001-04:00

My Favorite Season

Happy Fall to all my bloggy friends….I just couldn’t let this day pass without sending an Autumn greeting to everyone.

Summer’s loss seems little, dear, on days like these. ~Ernest Dowson

Barb

Thanks for the Inspiration & Keeping It Simple

2011-09-21T20:53:00.001-04:00

The Ideas in Blogland are Amazing

Fall is my favorite season and as I travel around Blogland, I am so inspired with all the wonderful ideas and pictures I am seeing. This is better than any magazine.

I have seen some of the most wonderful color combinations….just love it; everything from soft, soft to the richest of colors. Lots and lots of vivid and intense colors….just makes one want to reach out and touch their computer screens. ;-)

I have a vivid imagination but seeing all these wonderful decorating ideas has just added to it and enriched me so much. Thank you! Wow, there are a LOT of talented people out there.

Want a simple and easy idea for Fall Decorating? Just take your favorite pumpkin from the craft store (or a real one, for that matter) and pop it under a glass cloche. Tie a ribbon to the top if you wish or add other simple embellishments. Easy peasy and so pretty!

Have a wonderful day.

I am linking to and sharing with:

Keeping It Simple Party.

Seasonal Sundays

Barb

Fall Comes to the Den

2011-09-20T15:48:00.001-04:00

The Mantel All Decked Out

I finally managed to move on from the family room to the den. This is a small room and used only by my husband and myself. We watch DVD’s in this space and read. It has a fireplace which makes it really cozy.

My mantel is relatively simple in design compared to the past. I don’t want all the multi-layers this year and seem to need and desire something uncomplicated.

Love my little squirrel and wish the real ones we have were as nice. The real ones make a mess of our yard this time of year with all the little pods they chew in the cypress trees. Yuck!

Love this arrangement because the colors are subdued. I plucked out a couple of orange pumpkins and replaced them with green colors. ;-)

I love cake stands and have a number of them. I use them for just about everything except cakes…:-) They make fabulous areas to display items and bring attention to your treasures.

This is probably all I will do to this room….other than a couple of fall pillows on the sofa. Keeping my decorating really simple this year. I do hope you enjoyed my mantel. Thanks for your visit, as always.

Linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Tea Time

2011-09-19T15:15:00.001-04:00

Quiet Time for Me

I am a tea drinker. It calms me down and helps me to reflect on life….the good and the bad. I drink tea and become quiet when I need to make a decision. There is something so graceful about the ritual of ‘taking tea.’

These two tea cups and a chocolate pot (not shown) were a gift to me some years ago by my darling husband. While the cups are somewhat large, they are also very delicate. The roses speak to my heart as they are a most beloved flower to me.

I almost always dry my rose petals. I love to fill compotes with them.

I hope you enjoyed my cups. Thanks for your visit.

I am linking to and sharing with:

Barb

Fall is Happening…

2011-09-18T20:37:00.001-04:00

All Over the House

I always know it is officially Fall when I unpack my Byers Choice Carolers each year. I have a large and growing Christmas collection but must admit the Autumn ones are my favorites. I only have a few of those…they are much harder to find and just melt my heart.

These are a couple of snaps from last year. I just got them down today…along with a few others and I know they will keep me busy this week with lots of new vignettes. I’m now into a Halloween collection…they are super hard to find. But, I love the hunt! Ha.

This one is my most recent find…she is for Halloween (check out the cape) and you will see her in some vignettes that are upcoming. She has a darling pointed hat since she is a Harvest Good Witch.

I hope you had a wonderful weekend.

ADD ON: I have had several requests asking where I purchased these carolers. They are not easy to find, in general. I would suggest going to Byers Choice.com to locate a store that carries them in your area.

Barb

Looking Forward to the Weekend

2011-09-16T13:09:00.002-04:00

Have Projects and Good Times Lined Up

Just popping in to wish you all a happy weekend. What are you up to? Hope you have planned a little fun in with everything else.

Have a blessed weekend.

{Comments turned off for this post….time to rest. Love ya}

Barb

Coffee Table Goes Fall

2011-09-15T16:03:00.001-04:00

Seasonal Touches in the Family Room

Well, I am moving right along in the family room with Fall decorating. This is the only room I have gotten to as of yet but it is large….so, a little at a time and we still have lots of time. :-)

When I saw these pheasants in Hobby Lobby, I knew they would fit right in with my neutral decorating scheme this year. I love them on this coffee table.

I scrunched up a patterned scarf and placed it on the side of the table. I love soft pieces of fabric over tables and furniture of just about any kind.

My birds are happy at present but will probably be painted off white and stained a bit later on. ;-) I also can’t wait to use them for a tablescape centerpiece…and perhaps on the mantel…..and, and…..well you get the picture.

Thanks for stopping by today.

I’m joining these ladies:

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Inspiration Friday at At the Picket Fence

Home Sweet Home at The Charm of Home

Vintage Inspiration Friday at Common Ground

Barb

Welcoming Fall Tablescape

2011-09-14T15:15:00.001-04:00

In Celebration of My Favorite Season

Fall….my favorite season. This is my first tablescape for the Autumn season and I wanted it to be soft and just a whisper of what is to come.

I decided to use a neutral color scheme.

This is the dining table we have in our family room…so it was important for me to keep it relaxed and casual. I want everyone to really feel ‘at home.’

I am crazy for anything with acorns on it and I thought these napkin rings were so adorable.

Chocolate Brown Chargers…Hobby Lobby, plates…HomeGoods, flatware and napkins…Bed, Bath and Beyond, candleholders and napkin rings…Hobby Lobby, centerpiece reeds…Michaels, squirrels…local gift shop.

Thanks so much for your visit today. I always appreciate your comments so much.

I am linking to Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Barb

Fall in the Family Room

2011-09-13T15:58:00.001-04:00

Making Over the Buffet to Reflect the Season

I always seem to decorate the family room first and this year is no exception. We dine, quite often, in our family room so I have a small buffet tucked into the corner next to the dining table and I have redone it for Fall.

I am trying very hard to curb my use of intense color this year….I want everything to be really soft. So many of my beloved antique books are bound in reddish tones…..oh well, I love them too much NOT to use them.

I am a huge fan of ‘layering’ pictures and mirrors and wanted you to see my favorite Fall picture…below. (I had to move the wreath.) There is a lot of reflection as this room is flooded with light.

I used one of my favorite cozy throws over the table….I really like the texture it gives to the vignette.

I am doing my Fall decorating gradually….it is still very warm in Florida. The family room will receive most of my attention until October and then I will venture into other parts of the cottage.

Thanks for stopping by and visiting with me today.

I am linking to:

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

Open House Party Thursday at No Minimalist Here

Barb

Tea Time and Roses

2011-09-12T11:54:00.001-04:00

Bringing Back Fond Memories

Hello and welcome….every time I display a teacup, I always say it is one of my favorites; I’m laughing because all of them are my favorites. I am a teacup addict and have collected them for years.

This one really brought back fond memories of collecting with an old friend…she and I would go to antique shops and search for hours. Sometimes we would venture into a junk shop and find the most amazing things….you can, you know, if you are willing to dig. We once had to go home and clean up before we could go to lunch…..such fun. :-)

The roses are bold and beautiful on this cup and saucer but the outside is plain white….just gorgeous. It is the America Beauty by Royal Albert in Bone China…sorry I forgot to list this earlier.

I’m running out of space for my teacups and must keep many of them hidden away. Now, they take turns being on display. I keep telling my husband I need a ‘room just for teacups’ and he keeps rolling his eyes. Ha.

Thanks so much for stopping by today.

Linking to and sharing with:

Teapot and Tea Things Tuesday

A Return to Loveliness