Welcome to Cottage Dreaming, A Blog for Cottage Lovers...

Currently, with economic concerns impacting how we live and where we live, cottages will, I predict, have a comeback. They are usually smaller and more compact, but pack a lot of comfortable living space. A canvas wall hanging in the Spring 2012 "The Lakeside Collection" says it well: "Love grows well in Little Houses." This was true throughout the history of the United States, until the past 50 years, and it is true currently.

No offense, anyone, but a family of five in a three story, 10 room home has to work harder to keep in touch and to interact. That same family, in a five room, one story cottage or other small house, is closer, both in proximity, as well, I would suggest, as in emotional closeness. For this reason, as well as for economic necessity, small, cozy homes will be the prominent choice for middle income families in the future, as well as for empty-nesters and individuals who prefer a small home to an apartment or condo.

I love cottages of all kinds. My favorite cottage is one made of stone with a steeply pitched roof. I prefer a cottage that is close to water, whether it is a lake, bayou, coastal area or river. However, a cottage located close to the center of a commercial neighborhood is also appealing to me.

If you love cottages or other smaller homes, please join us in all things cottage, here at Cottage Dreamer. Thousands of small homes are out there ready to be custom-fit to your needs. They abound in small towns as well as in cities throughout the U.S.

To become a part of the regular happenings here at Cottage Dreamer, add your e-mail, to receive new posts. Welcome!

Pleasant day-dreams! Phebe


Tuesday, February 28, 2012

My Choice for Spring

My Spring 2012 project is to perk up my bathroom.  It has been a hodge-podge of towels and rugs since we moved here in 2007.  I had other things to do, and really couldn't decide on a theme or colors that I really liked.  


Also, towels seem to last "forever"!  It hurts me to dispose of towels that have become faded and even softer.  Also I have an aversion to products "made in China" and finding acceptable others is growing more difficult.  (My problem, I admit).


My bath is painted a rustic gold color - the plaster appears old and aged.  It has been difficult for me to decide on a color that appeals to me and also matches the walls.  


Long ago, in another home, I designed the perfect bath for me.  It was all white - white fixtures, white walls, white floor, a mirrored wall, and a skylight that my husband added after our home was built - over the bathtub.  I dearly loved decorating that bath, adding colors that appealed to me.  One of my favorites was to use bright green towels on a white background with fern leaves.  I hung live ferns above the tub, and the bright light always made the bathroom a happy and bright place to be.  The ferns flourished with the moisture from the tub/shower.


I again wish for an all white bathroom.  However, such is not to be, unless I paint, and that is more than I want to do, living here by myself, with very tall ceilings and walls.  It is also unachievable because I have dark wood surround on the tub, dark woodwork, and dark floors.  


I am hoping for a quick makeover; some towels, rugs, and accessories in a color or colors that make me happy.  Now, deciding what color is the challenge.  Finding attractive storage is also a goal.  Bathroom clutter can be unsightly.  Surely there is a way to organize it and make it attractive, yet easily available.


What are some color combinations that make you happy?  I've walked for several hours through linen and bath shops, and have decided my colors.  They make me happy and remind me that Spring is almost here.  I will share them next post.  


Happy planning and sharing!  I am waiting to hear what your decorating project will be.  Also, tell me your favorite colors at this time.  


Enjoy!  Phebe

Monday, February 27, 2012

Spring Fever! Do you have it? What do you do with it?

Hi, All,

It has been quite a dry spell for me, writing on this blog.  There IS a good explanation,
- the terminal illness and death of my dearest male friend.  

After recovering to some degree from the  death of  my dear husband of 47 years in 2009,  I became best friends and sweethearts in late 2010 with an acquaintance of ours.  We shared a lot of laughter, fun times, and closeness. Closeness turned into love.   Losing him has been one of the harder times in my life. He suffered a short illness, hospitalization, and died in early February.  It has taken me a lot of work trying to get back to doing something constructive.  (You may read more about this on my other blog.)

However, today, Feb. 27, 2012, I'd say Spring Fever has hit me with a burst of fresh air and enthusiasm.  

I dearly love Spring projects for my cottage!  Last year I planned and designed a wonderful backyard project - getting rid of all the grass, and making a "backyard" room.  It has brought me great joy since it was finished in April, 2011.  

This year, I am starting to experience Spring Fever a bit early.  What about you?  Has Spring Fever hit you yet?  

What project would you most like to accomplish this Spring?

Let's work on ours together...if you will join me.  I need the friendship and anticipation of doing a new project for my home....and I'm sure you can think of one or two things you might like to undertake also.  Let's have fun, most of all.  


Best wishes!  Let me hear from you, please.  Phebe


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