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.

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Pleasant day-dreams! Phebe


Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Visiting Llano (Part 2) - North side of Llano River

Llano is 65 miles northwest of Austin and 102 miles from San Antonio.

The Llano River, flows through the middle of the town of Llano. According to the website, llanoriver.com. the Llano River is one of Texas' few remaining wild rivers, and is located more than 100 miles from any major city.  It originates as a spring-fed river and therefore its clear, clean water is great for fishing and canoeing.  
Above, the Llano River's view of the dam in Llano. 
                                         

 

The Dabbs Hotel in Llano
The Dabbs Hotel, (above) located on the north side of the Llano River bank was built in 1907, and is the last of the railroad hotels.  It is still open and it may be rented for weddings or family reunions.  It also has a sleeping porch that sleeps six in twin beds that may be rented for #365 a night. Reportedly Bonnie and Clyde visited this hotel in the 1930's.   (Information from the hotel's website:  dabbsrailroadhotel.com.) 

In the same area there are other renovated homes, and a small log cottage that has been moved to the site which sits near the museum. 



The plaque at the steps tells a bit about this very old cottage.

                                            
I've seen lots of log cabins in several states and the chinking in this one is unique, at least to me.  It contains some stones, wood, and other items.  Another room, made of boards and batten, is apparently a later addition to this cottage.  


Another very small cottage sits near the train tracks.  It appears to have only one room and doesn't appear to have a bathroom.  It had a "For Rent" sign on it.  (below)



The third part of "Visiting Llano" will cross the bridge and visit the shops and buildings on the "South" side of the river.  Until then, please do find some ways to put a little fun in your life.  

Hugs, Phebe........................