Who’s Cracking the Whip?
Do you ever wonder what motivates you? I do.
What leaves many of us content, while others have to look for the next challenge? I wish I knew.
Somewhere, I have to have this tattooed into my brain (ouch!).
I won’t go through my list of what I’ve been doing to fill my days lately, but trust me, the list is long. I ask myself how I spent hours, with the help of Mr. Wonderful, trying to figure out what went wrong with my 20 year old sewing machine, over the weekend. Then, frustrated, we made the unpleasant trek to Walmart, thinking I could buy a whiz bang new machine. That went back today. Joy. And all of this, because I think I can make and sell my own pillows! Of course that’s on top of stocking the shop, refinishing furniture, writing this blog and all the other crazy things I attempt!

God forbid, I should sit on the sofa and read a good book in the afternoon or spend time with a friend! I have this work ethic that inside that needs a good exorcist!

I can’t be the only one who has this inner “tug of war” between the “next great idea” and my authentic life purpose, to enjoy what’s been earned.
While thinking about what to write this evening, I turned to all of the beautiful pictures I have, looking for inspiration. I’m all over the photos of outdoor rooms! They are so gorgeous!

But what’s the point if you don’t sit down and enjoy the rooms you already have, with the people who are so important to you?

If you have the answers to my dilemma, please share! Do tell!
If you’d like to open the door each day to a home you love, I can help.
Call at 916-203-3060 or email me!
4 Steps to a Beautiful Centerpiece
Mr. wonderful gave me a beautiful bouquet of flowers, for our anniversary, recently. While I am not a professional florist, my mother was a stellar entertainer. Having lots of dinner parties, and not a lot of money, she always made her own centerpieces. Her tables always looked like a wonderful celebration was about to take place.
I learned a lot, just watching her. Years later, I always enjoy making my own centerpieces and if you haven’t tried it yourself, it’s easier then it might look.

1. First of all, find a bowl or pot that you want to use for your arrangement. Whether it’s silver, pottery, or glass, something about 4 to 5 inches tall is ideal. Cut a piece of floral foam a little bit larger than the bowl and push it into the vessel. You want the foam to fit snugly so that it doesn’t move around.

2. Starting in the middle of the foam, cut your stems to the desired length, so that you can eventually have an arrangement no more than about a foot tall. Remember, you’re going to want to be able to see the person across the table!

3. Keep turning the arrangement, to make sure the arrangement is evenly filled from all sides, shortening the stem length, as you reach the edge of the bowl.
4. Fill with water!

See, it’s really not hard. I actually enjoy the process. What about you?
Happy weekend!
If you’d like to open the door each day to a home you love, I can help.
Call at 916-203-3060 or email me!
At Veranda Antiques This Week
Welcome back to Veranda! While I am the keeper of the shop today, I thought I’d give you another tour. You might see something you can’t live without! Or better yet, you might find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift…or gift certificate…for your sweetheart!

I love this old original pastel. The frame is especially great!

I’ll let your fingers do the walking! Are you old enough to know that line?





This is the West Virginia and Fenton glass I brought back from the east coast, along with my dear door stops!




Need a “new” spring bag?

…and of course, don’t forget my pillows! The down/feather inserts arrived, in case you prefer them, as I do!
So, what are you waiting for? Stop everything and come visit us soon!
Happy shopping!
If you’d like to open the door each day to a home you love, I can help.
Call at 916-203-3060 or email me!

















