Cozy Canadian Cottage

Roses and Zombies

2012-02-28T16:25:00.003-08:00

It's a little hard to imagine these two words combine together,

but let me explain how they came together.

I have always been a girly girl.

I love lace, tea cups, bouquets of flowers, high heels, pretty dresses and gardens.

But I just love camping.

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It's a leather and lace way of life.

A love affair with Royal Albert fine china and Coleman thermal sleeping bags.

Cozy Canadian Cottage

I love nothing than whiling away my days in the rugged great outdoors.

Cozy Canadian Cottage - Niagara escarpment

Now understand, I love being a lady with all the benefits that come with being a lady.

But I can equally sleep under the stars, cook my meals over an open fire,

canoe down a beautiful, peaceful river.

Most summer nights you can find me sitting around a bonfire talking ghosts stories,

the wonders of the universe and great camping tales.

Cozy Canadian Cottage - Kamloops, BC

How does Zombies come into this scenario?

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I just LOVE, LOVE the TV show, The Walking Dead.

I think the real reason I watch it every Sunday evening

is because, in a round-about way, they are camping.

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The world as they know it has ended and they are basically living off the land,

while they combat Zombies.

Myself, I could do without the Zombie thing while I camp.

IMDB

One of my very favourite characters is Dale,

In the show he owns and lives in an RV.

An old, early 70's Winnebago.

IMDB

As far back as I can remember I have always wanted an RV.

Not just any RV, I want a vintage baby!

Often, I will look in Kijiji or Craigslist and see what is up for sale.

Dreaming, someday I will have a vintage motor home of my own.

Kijiji

This beauty has been on Kijiji for a while. It has my name written all over it!

Someday I will round up the $5000, decorate it in vintage Coca-Cola red and white and hit the road.

Let me know when I am in your neck of the woods and we can all hit the road together in our vintage RV's.

We will call our group - The Road Sisters......how does that sound??

For now however, I am saving my pennies, nickles and dimes!!

So there you have it, camping Diane,

learning how to survive a Zombie apocalypse,

all the while enjoying freshly cut, beautifully scented flowers!

Diane

The Road Sisters

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I will be joining these parties

Wow Us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style

Tartan Love

2012-02-27T05:55:00.006-08:00

When I think of tartan,

I think Scottish Highland, Ralph Lauren, little Scottish terrier dogs, Irish sea cliffs and home decor.

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Feudal lords and ladies, living in far away castles.

Cabbages and Roses

Killyleagh Castle, Ireland

Cabbages and Roses

Quiet Scottish countryside, maybe a loch monster or two.

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Antiques, quaint shops and strong Irish coffee.

Cabbages and Roses

Tartan in the home.

Encore Decor

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House Beautiful

Hoscot House

The Adventures of a Tartan Scot

Rue and San Francisco Chronicles

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Dine on it.

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Tartan here and there.

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Helen Bonham Carter receiving her CBE from the Queen

Must not forget Braveheart!

Tartan love.

Diane

picture source - tumblr unless otherwise indicated

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I will be joining these linky parties

Show Off Your Cottage Monday at The house in the roses

Blue Monday at Smiling Sally
Met Monday at Between Naps on the Porch
Nifty Thrifty Tuesday at Coastal Charm

A father's daughter

2012-02-26T08:11:00.004-08:00

A boy named Sue.....

Sunday morning coming down....

Johnny Cash

Every time I hear music from Johnny Cash, I think of my father.

My sweet dad died May 31, 1973.

In the icy waters of the most northern point of the Northwest Territories, not far from Greenland.

My father's life ended tragically, he was 36. I was 10.

I could literally feel my heart breaking.

My father was on a one year contact as a cooking chef for a company that services remote work stations in the Territories.

One night as they were flying from station to station, the intoxicated helicopter pilot lost his bearings, flew into an early spring snow storm, and the helicopter violently crashed into solid ice terrain.

There were four men in that helicopter, all perished.

My father died at the hands of an intoxicated driver.

Why the Johnny Cash reference.

As a little girl, I remember my dad listening to Johnny signing away about Sunday mornings coming down, and a boy named Sue. And because he loved those songs, so did I.

I followed my father around like a shadow. Always trailing after him.

Asking all kinds of questions, and he would answer every single one.

I would sit in the passenger seat beside him in his pickup truck, and listen intensively as he taught me the roles of the road and how to be a good driver. I am 10, four feet tall, pig-tails in my hair.

Of course, I never go behind the wheel, but I was convinced I could easily drive a car if the occasion should every arise!

So for 39 years, every Sunday morning,

I think of Johnny Cash, pick-up trucks and the best father in the world.

Sometimes.......some broken hearts just never mend.

Diane

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All Things Pretty

2012-02-24T08:15:00.000-08:00

The Hopeless Romantic

Series #2

Today, I just wanted to share some pretty pictures.

Random images ranging from home decor, architecture and anything pretty.

Today, I just want to feel like a hopeless romantic!

Love the romance and history of an old heritage house.

If only the walls could talk!

Isn't this the prettiest kitchen.

So pretty, I would be afraid to cook in it!

I could totally see myself chillin' in this chaise lounge with a good book and a cup of tea.

A pretty little writing centre.

Just pour the bubbles in and relax.

If I could, I would have breakfast in bed every morning.

Now do you see why, with beautiful bedrooms like these wouldn't everyone!

Harry Winston

I was born to wear jewelry like this!!

To this very day, I always tell my mother I think I was switched as a baby.

I was born for leisure and luxury.

And.........would you believe it.......she pretty much just ignores me!! hmmph

Let me see......I might be able to pull off a hat like that.

A pretty place to sit.

Surround yourself with beautiful things.

Swing away.

I think everyone should have lavender in their lives.

Just imagine.....the fragrance drifting across the lands....what a very sweet world it would be!

And music.

Hope you enjoyed your visit today,

.......... I think everyone should be a hopeless romantic!

Diane

picture source - tumblr

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I will be linking up with these parties

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage
Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home
Pink Saturday at How Sweet The Sound

Parenting 101 - The "What If" Years

2012-02-23T09:43:00.002-08:00

Yesterday, I spend a wonderful day in the company of my sweet daughter.

She turned the magic age of 21.

Twenty-one years ago, I delivered this precious tiny human into the world.

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When I look at my daughter

When this small little creature was introduced into my hemisphere,

I didn't know one thing about parenting.....not one.

She didn't come with a manual on parenting 101.

When she was an infant and toddler.

Would I do a good job? Can I make this person a good and strong person?

What if I screw up? What if I do everything wrong and she turns into some crazy lunatic.

Have I feed her enough? Should I change her diaper every 30 minutes....just in case.

I feel guilty because I work full-time. I am missing everything!

During the elementary school years.

Does she have enough food for lunch? Will I be able to afford all the school trips they take.

What if she misses the school bus. Did I press off her clothes, does she look all wrinkly.

I feel guilty because I work full-time, what if she needs me in an emergency and I can't get there fast enough?

Will I give you good, memorable Christmases and Birthdays?

The high school years.

Will she make new friends? Make good memories?

Did I embarrass her in some way?

Guilt over the fact I could not afford $5000 to send her on the school Europe trip.

Everyday I sent her to school, I worry about guns. Drugs.

Leaving home to go to University.

I worry about her 24/7.....period.

I think you should move back home....period!

When my daughter looks at me.

Love and respect.

Okay.....all in all, I think I did pretty good at this parenting thing!

Diane

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I will be joining in these linky parties

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life
Inspiration Friday at At The Picket Fence
Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage

We are celebrating a birthday!

2012-02-22T08:59:00.000-08:00

"It's your birthday.....party like it's your birthday".... singing artist 50cent

Happy Birthday to my sweet daughter Rachel,
.....she turns 21 today!

Mom

xoxo

Thank you my friend

2012-02-22T04:57:00.000-08:00

What a nice surprise I received in the mail yesterday.....a gift.

The Canadian House & Home magazine.

Compliments from my friend Grace over at Sense and Simplicity.

I was the lucky winner in her giveaway.

Again, thank you Grace.....your gift brighten my entire day!

Diane

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Day outing for Kate

2012-02-21T09:48:00.000-08:00

The Duchess of Cambridge pays a visit to Rose Hill primary school in Oxford.

Kate wearing a Orla Kiely dress.

Diane

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Confessions of a Thrift Shopper

2012-02-20T07:46:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make.

I consider myself an accidental thrift shopper.

Up until little over a year ago, I never went into thrift stores......at all.

Now, I am not saying I am a snob, I just never considered Goodwill a place to shop.

There was nothing really I needed at any thrift store or such establishments.

To be really honest with myself, for the last 11 years I have been so busy with raising two babies on my own and running a small business, my world didn't include much else outside of these two factors.

I shopped for groceries and the odd time at WalMart for home necessities.

Two different scenes on either sides.

I didn't think about china cabinets or what could go into them.

I didn't think about vintage treasures.

I didn't have time to think about anything antique.

Pretty tea cups I knew people collected, but never thought I would start a collection of my own.

Then, a year and a half ago I went out west, Kamloops, BC, on a one year sabbatical.

I put my small business on hold for that year.

My children were young adults, so no longer had the demands on me that they did when they were younger.

So now what do I do with my time??

Up until that point I have always collected Christmas ornaments, and when I was to have my first Christmas out west all my ornaments were back at my Ontario house.

I jumped on the computer to look for some rustic, western Christmas ideas and came across someones wonderful blog.......and the rest, as they say, is history.

Blogging taught me how to find treasures in thrift stores....inexpensively.

Blogging taught me how to rejuvenate new life into an old treasure.

Blogging introduced me to a whole new way of thinking.

I am always amazed how I can find beautiful china at cheap prices.

I would also have to say that in its own way, blogging changed my life....for the better.

I kinda love this thrifting thing. I look forward to the days I can go treasure hunting!

So there you have it, a confession of a (fairly new) thrift shopper.

Diane

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I will be joining these linky parties

Show Off Your Cottage Monday at The house in the roses
Tea Time Tuesday at Rose Chintz Cottage

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday at Coastal Charm

A Snowy Day

2012-02-19T06:53:00.000-08:00

The winter has been a funny one this year.

The season just can't seem to make up it's mind.

It snows one day, and then it disappears the next.

I have never been a big fan of snow, but I have to admit that I kind of miss it.

New fallen snow, adds a touch of serenity to everything it covers.

Calming, cold, tradition.

My son is a winter person, he is a snowmobiler.

So he has been disappointed with the weather this year.

I always thought that when both my children graduated high school,

I would love to have the freedom to choose to spend my winters down South,

but now I am not so sure.

My daughter and me.

I think I am a winter season girl.

Diane

Red and Roses

2012-02-18T07:29:00.000-08:00

Today, lets treat ourselves to some pretty roses.

And we will throw in some red for good measure.

Nice wheels - I can picture myself cruisin' in this baby!

Love hats.

Roses breath elegance into a house - fresh or satin.

On a cake.

Cool attic bedroom.

On a mug.

Or a tea cup.

On a clock.

On a house.

Country Living

Two of my favourite things - the colour red and roses.

Diane

picture source - tumblr unless otherwise indicated

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I will linking up with these parties

Pink Saturday at How Sweet The Sound

Show and Tell Saturday at Be Different Act Normal

Launching St. Patrick's Day

2012-02-17T10:29:00.000-08:00

While I admit to going all out for Christmas decorating, and maybe a little bit at Easter,

I have never been a big Valentine's Day decorator or St. Patrick's Day.

But this year I want to add a punch of green to my home decor in honour of St. Patty's Day.

I have a sweet collection of teddy bears, so I rounded up anything with green in it,

threw a dollar store green garland in an apothecary jar, a couple of horse shoes, china....and grabbed my camera.

This week I will slowly start to pull more green decor out, collect all my china that has green in it, and display them in my china cabinets.

I think I was a little disappointed with myself that I did not make the effort to decorate for Valentine's Day, so I am pulling out the stops for this sweet Irish holiday.

Although I am full Canadian/British blood, my maternal grandfather came from Bristol, England,

my family roots go as far back as 1732 to Antrim, Ireland, on my Dad's side.

Do any of you have Irish blood running through your veins?

I will probably start another series on life as an Irishmen, or something along that idea....I do have so much fun putting together pretty images from tumblr or pinterest.

Maybe we can figure out how to actually catch a Leprechaun and that pot of gold.....you know me, I have a solution for all kinds of impossible tasks!!

So ladies and gentlemen, let's gather all our greens and celebrate St. Patrick's Day!

Diane

I will be joining in these linky parties

Home Sweet Home at The Charm of Home
Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life
Inspiration Friday at At The Picket Fence
Fridays Unfolded at Stuff and Nonsense
Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home
Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage
Woman Thing at Cindy Adkins' Whimsical Musing

A Sweet Award

2012-02-16T12:54:00.000-08:00

The Versatile Blogger Award

My good pal Tracey over at Breathing English Air

awarded me this sweet award.

Part of this award has me listing seven things about myself, so here goes.....

#1. I love my family - kids, mother and my late father, my sisters & brother.

#2. I drink about three cups of tea a day.

#3. I love, love, love my new Canon camera.

#4. I love to watch movies, either at home or at the theatre.

#5. I love to travel - car or plane either works for me.

#6. I love china and vintage anything.

#7. I love horses and the country life.

Thank you so much Tracey for the honour of this award.....your awesome.

I am passing this award onto my other pal, Holly over at Full Circle Creations

Few simple rules

1. Add the award to your blog.

2. Thank the blogger who gave it to you.

3. Mention 7 random things about yourself.

4. List the rules.

5. Award to 15 bloggers.

6. Inform each of those 15 by leaving a comment on their blog.

Diane

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Somethings... are just too funny!

2012-02-15T13:52:00.000-08:00

Every once and a while you have to have a good little giggle or two....

Can you imagine uploading those pictures!!

And that's why you should always GO before you leave the house!!

Who let the dogs out?!

Guess everyone wants to get in the picture!

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Almost through the week ladies and gentlemen.....and then the weekend!

Diane

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Happy St. Valentine's Day!!

2012-02-14T06:01:00.000-08:00

February 14, my oh my is the month speeding by.

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But what a great month, I have always liked Valentine's Day because it brightens up winter.

I like February even better as it is my daughters birthday on the 22nd.

Here are some of the posts that I have done up in honour of this romantic day.

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Love Potion #9

A collection of love and romance images.

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Love Letters Straight From The Heart

A collection of romantic images, singing along with the lyrics to one of Elvis' greatest love ballets.

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Going To The Chapel

A collection of engagement and wedding images.

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A Mail-Order Valentine

A humorous look at the singles guide to Valentine's Day.

handsome George

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Great Romantic Couples

As the title suggests, a look at a few famous TV and movie romantic couples.

You've Got Mail

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Happy Valentine's Day my friends.

Diane

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Great Romantic Couples

2012-02-13T10:38:00.000-08:00

With tomorrow being Valentine's Day and all,

let's have a look at some romantic couples in TV and the movies.

Also some love triangles, unrequited love and tragic loves.

Movies

Forrest and Ginny - Forrest Gump

Noah and Allie - Notebook

Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet - Pride and Prejudice

Lucy and Jack - While You Were Sleeping

Joe and Kathleen - You've Got Mail

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Mulder and Scully - X Files

Sam and Diane - Cheers

Pam and Jim - The Office

Ross and Rachel - Friends

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Triangles

Jack, Kate, Sawyer - Lost

Mark, Bridget, Daniel - Bridget Jones Diary

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Unrequited Love

Irene for Soames - The Forsyte Saga

Scarlett O'Hara for Rhett Butler - Gone With The Wind

Mr. Stevens for Miss Kenton - Remains of the Day

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Tragic

Jack and Rose - Titantic

William Wallace and Murron - Braveheart

Wm Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet

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Diane

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Sunday Musings

2012-02-12T05:49:00.000-08:00

Tell your kids you love them.....it's a feel good feeling - for everyone!

Happy Sunday my friends, enjoy the day.

Diane

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A Breath of Elegance

2012-02-11T02:54:00.002-08:00

These days I am enjoying my new Canon camera that I bought last fall.

When I am out shopping at the thrift stores I look for items that will be good to photograph.

Classic vintage china that will breath elegance into my photo shots.

I pulled together some sweet vintage tea cups,

a regal tarnished coffee pot,

and arranged some carnations for drama and colour.

These days I buy reduced flowers......always looking to cut costs.

Then grabbed my camera.

I love seeing my treasures come to life in my photos.

I fall in love with them all over again!

Diane

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I will be joining these linky parties

Show Off Your Cottage Monday at The house in the roses
Tea Time Tuesday at Rose Chintz Cottage

A Mail-Order Valentine

2012-02-09T09:54:00.000-08:00

A Single Girls Guide to Valentine's Day

As Valentine's Day fast approaches, love and romance is in the air.

However, maybe you don't have a special Valentine.

Maybe it is a day you don't particularly like?

Well no worries ladies....this year you get your own mail-order Valentine.

You get to pick and choose who you will love and admire this February 14th.

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Here are some of your male candidates.

George Clooney

Pros - Smart, ambitious, wealthy, most handsomest man on the planet,

Cons - has commitment issues.

Gerard Butler

Pros - Handsome, Scottish, sexy as sin

Cons - too many movies, too busy - would he have time for us?

Hugh Jackman

Pros - Breath-taking, family man, Austrailian

Cons - can turn into Wolverine with sharp claws

IMDB

Ryan Gosling

Pros - charming, Canadian, heart melting, sweetest person on earth

Con - might still be in love with Rachel McAdams

Matt Damon

Pros - nice looking, American, boy next door, bring home to mother

Cons - are you kidding, he's way too sweet to have any cons

IMDB

Jude Law

Pros - drop dead gorgeous, British, brilliant actor

Cons - bit of a bad boy

IMDB

Bradley Cooper

Pros - heart melter, American, funny

Cons - can he be prettier than we are??

IMDB

Josh Duhamel

Pros - tall, American, likes kids

Cons - don't know, don't care

IMDB

Andrew Lincoln

Pros - Amazing, British, handsome sheriff

Cons - none, he kills Zombies for a living

#10

IMDB

Richard Armitage

Pros - hunk, British, most romantic man on the planet

Cons - who cares, I will take him as my Valentine!

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Okay, now that we have picked out our special someone, lets address some other Valentine issues.

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Chocolates

Valentine chocolates.

It's very simple actually.......just go out and buy some....yum!

People will think that you are buying them for your sweetheart,

.....which of course you are, because you picked him out yourself!

And wouldn't you know it, he doesn't even like chocolates,

so you will have to eat them yourself - oh darn!

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Date Night

So, Valentine's Day also calls for a romantic night on the town.

No worries, you will rent the most romantic movie in the video store.

Ta da.....date night solved.

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Flowers

When you think of Valentine's Day, you think red roses.

This Valentines lets buy ourselves a beautiful bouquet of flowers, doesn't necessarily have to be red.

Pick your own favourite colour and flowers.

Buy them with your groceries, slip them in with your loaf of bread and pot roast.

Myself, I am thinking yellow roses.

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Romantic Dinner

Be a rebel, order pizza!

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Myself this Valentine's Day, you will find me romancing Richard.

I will be having my pizza, surrounded by beautiful yellow roses, as I watch North & South!

Happy Valentines Day....to me.

Diane

picture source - tumblr except were indicated

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I will be joining in these linky parties

Inspiration Friday at At The Picket Fence
Fridays Unfolded at Stuff and Nonsense
Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home
Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage
Pink Saturday at How Sweet The Sound
Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper
Woman Thing at Cindy Adkins' Whimsical Musing

The Lonely Bride

2012-02-08T15:50:00.000-08:00

I was out and about today stalking the thrifts stores.

These days I am looking mainly for pretty tea cups, tea pots....anything pretty really.

When I came across this beautiful vintage bridal gown and veil.

She was hanging on the wall, set aside from the main clothing area.

She looked so lonely. Why wasn't she with the other wedding dresses??

I stood there wondering how this beauty found its way to the thrift store.

What was the history behind this dress, did the marriage break down?

I was enchanted. I was mesmerized.

I must have been standing there a good 10 minutes, just staring at it.

My daughter was also shopping with me.

When finally she met up with me, she also took pause.

We both stood standing there looking at this gown.

She turned to me and said, "she looks like a lonely bride".

I knew right then and there this lovely gown was coming home with me.

I do so love bridal dresses.

What I will do with it, I don't have a clue.

Maybe I will have it dry cleaned and sell it on Kijiji or Craigslist??

Isn't she enchanting?

Diane

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I will be linking up with these parties

Treasure Hunt Thursday at From My Front Porch to Yours

Thursday Favorite Things at Katherines Corner

Thrifty Things Friday at The Thrifty Groove
Vintage Inspiration Friday at Common Ground

A Cowboy Country

2012-02-07T08:26:00.000-08:00

Life In The Country
Series #12

Here we are again this week, heading into the country for some decorating inspiration and fun fiction!

**For those new to my blog, you will need your imagination....oh and....your cowboy boots!**

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Flying back from my sweet home in England,

I am looking forward to spending some time on my horse and cattle ranch in Texas, USA.

Watching over my 1000 acre estate has to be the best sheriff this side of the Mississippi.

When I am away I can rest easy knowing that he is taking care of the good, the bad and the ugly.

Let's just say.....you don't want to make his day!!

The ranch hands have been busy bringing in the newest members to the stables.

As always, everything has been running smoothly,

so I think I will relax for a bit to shake off the jet-lag.

The kitchen always has strong cowboy coffee brewing.

With all this heat and dust, I think I will take a little afternoon rest.

Now, which room did I leave my suitcases??

Alas, just were I left them!

Looking forward to visiting with some of my southern blog pals,
they will be staying the week, and of course, will be saddling up.

Their rooms are all ready.

One of my favourites, overlooking the yard.

And this room is just too pretty.

They are most eager to see the new fouls,
so will have a quick lunch.

These girls are so savvy,
no sooner did they just arrive we were heading out to the shops.

I looked forward to picking up some find treasures myself.

We even got to meet some of the locals.....they are so friendly!

What a great day we have all had,

I retire for the evening with a good book, glass of sherry
while a strong Texas wind blows across the land.

Diane

picture source - tumblr

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I will be linking up with these parties

Wow us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style

Pearls and Lace Thursday at Faith, Grace and Crafts
Open House Party at No Minimalist Here
Potpourri Friday at 2805

Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage
Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home
Pink Saturday at How Sweet The Sound

Going to the Chapel

2012-02-06T07:14:00.000-08:00

Love Potion #9

Valentines Series #3

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Valentines Day is only a week away.

Maybe you will be getting an engagement ring.

Perhaps a commitment ring.

Celebrate a romantic wedding anniversary.

A sweet quiet wedding in a quaint church is always a good idea.

Elope to the chapel.

Dragging his feet?

Maybe you need to brew up a little enchanted potion #9 spell,

.......to help speed up the process.

*Tempting as it is, ignore the poison...that will only get you in a whole heap of trouble!*

No worries if things just do not go the way you thought they might.

As Mamma would always say,

.... there are plenty of fish in the sea, or chocolate..... take your pick!

February is such a fun, magic and romantic month!

Diane

picture source - tumblr

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I will be linking up with these parties

Met Monday at Between Naps on the Porch

Sunday Musings

2012-02-05T07:08:00.000-08:00

Rule of life.....

Diane

picture source - tumblr

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The Pretty Side of Economics

2012-02-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

I mentioned last week that we are buckling down for our upcoming summer trip to Europe.

Saving money or no saving money, I still buy fresh flowers every week.

Have been buying fresh flowers weekly since I was 20.....it's tradition!

Before I would have spent $20....no problem.

These days......I"m looking for reduced flowers.

Bingo.

This weeks flowers I paid $5.00, they were "day olds".

A very sweet bouquet of flowers.

Little brown around the edges, here and there....but I don't care!

I separated the bouquet and spread them around the house.

This little set went into the washroom.

While the rest of the bouquet graced my living room in a pretty vase.

I took a few roses and a few pretties from my china cabinet, and grabbed my camera.

Flowers are so wonderful to photograph.

Love the smell of fresh roses, it's always nice for a day or two.

All in all, I think economics is a very beautiful thing!!

Diane

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I will be joining Fresh Cut Friday at Rose Vignettes

Pink Saturday at How Sweeet The Sound

Show Off Your Cottage Monday at The house in the roses
Tea Time Tuesday at Rose Chintz Cottage

A Peaceful Day in the Country

2012-02-02T11:47:00.001-08:00

Today, my daughter and I decided to hit the thrift stores.

So we jumped into the car and headed to the neighbouring town of Woodstock.

I took the country way.

Isn't this great.

An old tin barn rusted to a romantic country colour.

The whole time I am snapping away these pictures,

it's so peaceful and quiet.

Very creative, a bird house on a fence post.

Or it that a bat house?

Either or, I thought is was picture worthy.

Three old silos.....aren't they great!

Not a single soul the entire time we are out walking and taking pics.

You'll notice, no snow. Last week it was storming snow, this week it's gone!

We stopped off at a local park to have our lunch.

We had some company that wanted to join us too!

Finally made it to the thrift store and we came away with a few treasures.

A sweet little teapot, vintage silver tray, fabric and some books.

A lovely beginning to the weekend I think!

Diane

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I will be linking up with Barn Charm at Bluff Area Daily

Would I Be Happier By The Sea?

2012-02-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

That age old question,

is life better on the other side of the fence?

Is the grass greener somewhere else?

In this case, would I be happier living by the sea?

Let me ponder for a moment on that question...

...ummmm......hmmm....

.....yep....yes....double yes!

I love the sound the water makes.....

The feel of sand on my feet....

I just happen to like the colour of blue.....

Coastal Living

I am a flip flop kind of girl.....

Cozy Canadian Cottage

I can handle a storm or two....

Heck, I could even get use to seagulls...

Winter by the sea....no problem...

Life by the sea....a sweet life.

Diane

Cozy Canadian Cottage

picture source - tumblr unless otherwise indicated

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I will be joining these parties

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here

Pearls and Lace Thursday at Faith, Grace and Crafts

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

What is Destiny?

2012-01-31T06:53:00.000-08:00

Destiny.

Websters dictionary explains it as such:

"a predetermined course of events often held to be an irresistible power or agency."

Is it destiny or just simply coincidence?

Destiny is fate, faith and a feeling.

Can destiny be controlled or predicted?

Where do you find destiny?

Is it intuition, knowledge or an assumption?

Is destiny a person, place or thing?

The word itself is amazing and powerful.

But the true answer to destiny is held by the Lord.

He speaks to you all the time about your destiny.......you just simply have to listen.

Diane

picture sourse - tumblr

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I will be joining these parties

Wow us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style

Knick of Time Tuesday at Knick of Time

House of the Month

2012-01-30T07:22:00.000-08:00

Rideau Hall

Ottawa, Ontario

Rideau Hall, since 1867, is the official residence of both the Canadian monarch,

and the home and workplace of every Governor General.

Canada became a country of Confederation in 1867.
The system of government is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is Queen of Canada and Head of State.
The Governor General is the representative of the Queen in Canada.

The Queen at Rideau Hall in 2010

The Queen 2010 unveiling a bust of herself for Rideau Hall

William and Kate Canadian arrival in 2011

William and Kate in the Tent Room

Prince Charles with Prime Minister Stephen Harper in 2009

The mansion was built in 1838.

It houses 170 rooms and is approximately 31,168sqft, making it the largest private residence in Canada.

Main entrance

Long Gallery

Doors leading to gardens from the Long Gallery

Dining room

Ballroom

Tent room

Queen Victoria portrait in the Tent room

The Pauline Vanier room

Reception room

Changing of the Guards during the summer months

The current Governor General is His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston.

A bit of Canadian scandal

When the Queen was to make her 2010 tour,

the husband of the then Governor General Michaelle Jean

asked the Queen to stay in a hotel instead of Rideau Hall because they would not be home during the time of her visit.

Former Gov General Michaëlle Jean with the Quuen

Imagine that - the house only belongs to the Queen!

The Queen ended up staying at her house.

It made national news.....we Canadians were not amused!!

I have only been to Rideau Hall once, many years ago.

It was incredibly beautiful!

Diane

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Sometimes.....you just have to laugh!

2012-01-29T06:44:00.000-08:00

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Diane

What's New In My Corner of the World.....

2012-01-28T06:41:00.000-08:00

A European Adventure

google image

When my kids were little I made a commitment of at least two European trips.
A gift for each one when they graduate high school.

Their choice, anywhere in Europe.

Daughter 2009

In 2009 my daughter graduated, she choose Great Britain.

In three whirlwind weeks we did England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

England 2009

Now it is son's turn to graduate this year and he is choosing Italy and France.

Yessss...........I have been to England three times, but never to France or Italy.

So now I will have to do some serious, serious, serious saving.
We are looking at going early July.

Daughter has already started to gather info on hotel costs, flights and car rentals.

For some time I had been budgeting a purchase of a new little house for myself.

But looks like that may have to be postponed for a little bit.
Traveling Europe with my children sounds a bit more fun!!

A lot of changes have happened in the last few months.

I worry and hope I will be able to afford this European adventure.

But, I am the Queen of saving money and I can do this!!

Looks like Kraft Dinner and peanut butter for the next six months!! Yikes!

Question

Anyone who has visited either of those countries

are you able to recommend a Bed & Breakfast or other economical and clean places to stay?

Diane

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Love Letters Straight From The Heart

2012-01-27T05:42:00.000-08:00

Love Potion #9

Valentine Series #2

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Maybe it is because I grew up with Elvis music.

But Elvis Presley was the epitome of romance.

Really....who can sing romance better than the King himself.

There have been many romantic songs created over the Century,

but my fav would have to be,

"Love letters straight from the heart"

And no one has ever sang it better than he.

"Love letters straight from your heart
Keep us so near while apart....

BBC North & South

I'm not alone in the night
When I can have all the love you write....

I memorize every line
And I kiss the name that you sign....

And, darling, then I read again right from the start
Love letters straight from your heart."

Diane

Picture source - tumblr

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I will be linking up with these parties

Vintage Inspiration Friday at Common Ground
Share Awesomeness at The 36th Avenue
Inspiration Friday at At The Picket Fence
Fridays Unfolded at Stuff and Nonsense

A Pretty Little Deal

2012-01-25T10:28:00.000-08:00

Look what $42 bought me.

Last night I was out looking for treasures in my local GW.

I was not disappointed.

I bought this lovely vintage John Maddock & Sons Ivory Ware,

6 pcs dinnerware place setting.

It came with 6 dinnerplates, 6 salad, 6 soup, 6 dessert, covered bowl,

platter and gravy boat with stand.

I instantly feel in love with it.

The pattern was simple, yet vibrant.

I was going to pick up the tea cup and saucers, but didn't want to spend anymore money.

If they are still there, I will go back in a day or two to get them.

Wanna see what else I bought??

Pretty little "Snowbaby" by Dept 56. Picked it up for $.50.

Sweet deal. An addition to my collection.

And a pretty little "Precious Moment" for $2.00

Also an addition to my collection.

I thought I didn't do too badly.

Sometimes you can walk away with nothing from Goodwill

and other times you get a mint full of treasures at super great deals!

Diane

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I will be linking up with these parties

Treasure Hunt Thursdays at From My Front Porch to Yours
Under $100 Linky Party at Beyond The Picket Fence
Home & Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Winter in the Country

2012-01-24T12:04:00.000-08:00

Life In The Country

Series #11

Here we are again this week, heading into the country for some decorating inspiration and fun fiction!

**For those new to my blog, you will need your imagination....oh and....your wellington boots!**

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You will remember from last week I was touring my brand new purchase up in Ireland.

This week, family matters call and I am off to our family seat in Somerset, England.

I am so looking forward to my visit and stay with my elderly grandfather,

His Grace The Earl of Bristol.

flickr (HailstonesinAfrica) Culzean Castle

I am his only relative and yes, making me the future Countess of this grand estate.

We have excellent security on the property.

Any and all personal matters of the family are keep private and confidential, and are for his eyes only.

If I didn't know better I would think he works for Scotland Yard and not Grandpapa.

He just goes by the name of.....Bond.

I packed lots of warm clothing, the house does tend to get a bit chilly and drafty.

Wilda Hem.com

Will make sure the fireplaces are lit in each room.

Gustavian Style

Now that the house is starting to warm up,

I will head out to the local market for flowers.

Each room in the house should have fresh flowers.

Since the journey from Ireland to England was a short one,

I am not feeling any jet lag side effects, therefore will skip an afternoon rest.

But will grab my boots and head out to the stables.

I tacked up the horses and gave a call to a few close friends for a ride and a weekend stay.

My good friends the Duke and Duchess of Bathshire, will be joining us for dinner and the weekend.

Hope they like their quarters.

My sea faring friends the Baron and Baroness of Hastings, will enjoy the weekend in the country.

First to arrive was my oldest pal, the Dowagar Duchess of Downton.
What a hoot she is!

Although, she can get a bit fussy
and requires a bit more of my staff's attention than any of my other guess,
.......I believe it is quite okay with them I am sure.

Last to arrive, and might I say I was quite surprised by their visit,
was the Count and Countess of Bon Temp, visiting from France.

While my guests are settling in and unpacking,
I take a quick round through the house to make sure that the heat has spread into each floor.

After running up and down all these stairs, will take a short rest.....and maybe a little soak.

A quick little swim....

Outside the snow is fall, temperatures are below freezing,

but inside I have the warmth of family and friends,
and look forward to a fantastic weekend.

Diane

All pictures are tumblr except otherwise indicated.

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I will be linking up with these parties

Wow us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style

Pearls and Lace Thursday at Faith, Grace and Crafts
Open House Party at No Minimalist Here
Potpourri Friday at 2805

Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage
Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home
Pink Saturday at How Sweet The Sound

Have a great week.

2012-01-23T05:37:00.000-08:00

tumblr

Love this picture.

Reminds me of my son when he was little. He lived 24/7 in his Spiderman outfit.

Diane

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Sunday Dreaming

2012-01-22T05:35:00.000-08:00

When I was a little girl, my mother use to tell me Sunday's were for dreaming.

Monday to Friday was for working hard and responsibilities.

Selina Lake

Saturday's for play.

And Sunday's were for dreaming.

Very wise woman.....love you Mom!

Today...I am allowed to dream.....

So.....lets see......

I would live in a sweet English manor.

I would have a church on my estate.

Each day I would stroll down and say a little pray.

I would marry Gerard Butler.....well....it is my dream right!

I would have a pretty little piece of jewellery.....or two.....

The oven would be on all day.....

At Home in Arkansas

I would have fresh flowers in every room.

What would you dream about today.....Mom said it was okay. :)

Diane

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Picture Source - All pics are from tumblr unless otherwise indicated.

Winter White

2012-01-21T07:01:00.000-08:00

As I look out my window today

I am happy that the snow has finally settled from the last few days.

tumblr

We have had constant snow falls, snow storms and white-outs.

Today the sun is shining, the roads look a bit better for driving,

so I will grab my parka, car keys and head out to get some much needed staples.

Diane

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Picture source - tumblr