Retiring in Style

My YOUNG good friend is worried about retirement. We’ve brainstormed for years about building a commune of sorts for all our childless friends to share. We would each have our own space but share a kitchen, dining space, nurse and cook. She recently sent this picture of a cabin to me as inspiration for the personal space.   

Anyone want to join us?

Local and Handmade

This beautiful sconce was handmade in Clifton Forge, VA before most of us were born.  It wasn’t commissioned for a resort or mansion as most custom lights are today.  It was made for a simple summer cottage just up the road from where it was forged.

It makes me pause at the internet shopping I do for clients.  Don’t get me wrong!  It’s great to purchase anything from anywhere.  The convenience and price is almost always right.  Just not sure how many of those items people will be writing blogs about 75 years from now.

Our last vacation….

Was way TOO long ago!  But, we still have the memories of this rooftop patio complete with a gorgeous view we had all to ourselves.  The glass windscreen was a perfect solution for when those ocean breezes got a little strong and the pergola was just the right spot for indirect sun.  What’s not pictured was our very own private pool and the awesome bathroom just inside the door.  I love a well thought out plan particularly when the goal is to relax with a good book!

Proud Turkey

Last year my husband cooked his first turkey for our first ever “hosted” Thanksgiving dinner.  What can I say – we are late bloomers.  But this turkey and the family celebration turned out great and were well worth the wait. 

Bucket list

Only dorks have the Hoover Dam on their bucket list, right?   Well I don’t care because it was truly amazing.  A must see!  I’m not sure how I feel about the reason behind the building of the Dam (re-routing the Colorado River to provide water for the desert in several states).  I do know it was a thrill to stand on it and think about what had to happen to build it. 

Art masonry

This is a new chimney – it was just constructed less than a year ago.  I was flabbergasted when I first saw it.  The face of each stone is hand chiseled and it all fits together like a jigsaw puzzle.  They aren’t supposed to make them like this anymore!

Plant sounds

I’ve always thought an old upright would make the perfect bar but this is definitely more fun and you don’t even have to bother with getting it through the door.