tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89740543406181838472024-03-13T21:18:16.583-05:00Cottage DreamerWelcome to "Phebe's Cottage Dreamer"
I'm wishing for all cottage lovers--dreams of a cozy cottage, warmed by love of family, friends and your pets.
Let's relax, reminisce, and share our favorite cottage memories.
It is never too late to dream of what can be, or remember fondly what has been.
Welcome to cottage dreaming.....Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-50150108891136640662012-04-12T18:21:00.004-05:002012-04-13T15:29:06.319-05:00Visit to Llano - Part Three<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;">(There was quite a delay between blogging about Visiting Llano, part two and part three; all because my little laptop was recalled by the manufacturer. It is back now, and I am happy to have her back!</span> )</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>On my day trip to Llano in March, 2012, after touring the "railroad" historic area, we crossed the Llano River bridge and soon arrived at the Courthouse Square. </strong></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheT7RyXGytMN-zopiFEKDNTs0mC3gKxlbAcU2NmR3qqXK8UCkOUp1Lgwm6-5ETi130H4n6Wz5p5J6fqcU8m2xOLFZcwGwbTRrICuitot39KjxWvvVxv9NNhizCMvKTFFRO03q6IaNZiYLm/s1600/2012-03-16_11-01-22_546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheT7RyXGytMN-zopiFEKDNTs0mC3gKxlbAcU2NmR3qqXK8UCkOUp1Lgwm6-5ETi130H4n6Wz5p5J6fqcU8m2xOLFZcwGwbTRrICuitot39KjxWvvVxv9NNhizCMvKTFFRO03q6IaNZiYLm/s320/2012-03-16_11-01-22_546.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Llano Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong> The Llano Courthouse, is a lovely large old structure with a clock on top which was rebuilt in 1893. The previous courthouse was destroyed by fire in January, 1892. </strong></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7dInV9Lc_Y-zH-cCuaOo40TqA1poG5YkBXsZEjul0ZJwfUJV0Z_a_BP3aVBpi1YpuGTkotNiEJnHEVS9Fcp3ix96eRfpqxylrKcgxCYakXHPzh9JN47liYw7YF6Ep-2IiXLxJau-DtD5R/s1600/2012-03-16_11-27-05_269LLANOCOURTHOUSE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7dInV9Lc_Y-zH-cCuaOo40TqA1poG5YkBXsZEjul0ZJwfUJV0Z_a_BP3aVBpi1YpuGTkotNiEJnHEVS9Fcp3ix96eRfpqxylrKcgxCYakXHPzh9JN47liYw7YF6Ep-2IiXLxJau-DtD5R/s320/2012-03-16_11-27-05_269LLANOCOURTHOUSE.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Llano Courthouse Tower & Clock</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-c7BnaEWi_614C0-tLPCIGXLqVxT56lE87XNG_4c3GCYse-PkC1lLOWpA0j_a4Kv5-x4c2eeQNgtzEGpAiNxJ4N1ASemkDh5Lm8a6EecoJzazZ3V8NQbDjs2ND9N_2yLGfwSZ9MSG-2zd/s1600/2012-03-16_11-26-54_583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-c7BnaEWi_614C0-tLPCIGXLqVxT56lE87XNG_4c3GCYse-PkC1lLOWpA0j_a4Kv5-x4c2eeQNgtzEGpAiNxJ4N1ASemkDh5Lm8a6EecoJzazZ3V8NQbDjs2ND9N_2yLGfwSZ9MSG-2zd/s640/2012-03-16_11-26-54_583.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Built of Brick, Granite, and Sandstone in 1893.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong>The old oak tree standing near the courthouse must be very old. If we could only see the town grow as it has. Imagine seeing the cowboys gathering for the cattle drives to Kansas, the saloons and town streets of the 1800's, and the ladies of the Woman's Culture Club attending their meetings in 1901. </strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong>The beautiful tower and clock can be seen throughout the Llano town area. The courthouse is built of granite, sandstone, and brick. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>The history of Llano is interesting. It was the home of American Indians for centuries prior to the Spanish arriving and finding silver near Llano at Riley Mountain in 1756. Llano County is a treasure-trove of minerals including crystals and according to some old sources, possibly the home of lost gold mines. In 1838 a Mrs. Webster and her children were taken by Indians and she lived with them for two years before escaping. She quickly reported gold and silver mines belonging to the Indians which resulted in many prospectors coming to seek the "lost" Spanish-Mexican mine and Indian gold which have never been located. Some say silver and gold are located inside granite pockets in this Llano Uplift region of Central Texas. Near Llano you can see rare brown granite with sky blue crystals and pink feldspar which can be found nowhere else on earth. Rare pearls have also been found in fresh water mussels along the Colorado River which have been valued from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Llano was settled by Germans beginning in 1844. Cattle-rustling was a huge problem until the 1870's. </strong><br />
<strong>Many early buildings remain such as the historically significant 'old jail', a solid looking beautiful old building - probably not so beautiful to those who were forced to reside inside. The old jail, now known as "Red-top" because of its red roof, was built in 1895 of local granite at a reported cost of $11,500. The first floor was the home of the "jailers" and the four cells and two drunk tanks were located on the second floor. Prisoners reportedly slept on the floor on cot mattresses, and there was no electricity on the second floor. Their meals were prepared by the jailer's wife. There is no third floor, and the top of the jail is where the gallows was located. A hole in the floor allowed bodies to fall down to "hang". Reportedly no one was hanged from the "gallows" although skeptics say there were hangings. It was last used as a jail in the 1970's and was used as a "Headstart" building in the 1990's. It is reportedly being restored by the Friends of the Llano Red Top Jail. </strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihIyZOyq18uZhiGXUXtLzc9_mTlm3LeFfUYz2z5ei9A7hSLJfIfeZCazG3zaiRM-DzsolKduQ5NfVQKwK6MS1Ptnhve9VSiJusrZS0yCl_H5F9oyKICeS-mP1LJARPAc5V54xViZ48PSvz/s1600/IMG_3136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihIyZOyq18uZhiGXUXtLzc9_mTlm3LeFfUYz2z5ei9A7hSLJfIfeZCazG3zaiRM-DzsolKduQ5NfVQKwK6MS1Ptnhve9VSiJusrZS0yCl_H5F9oyKICeS-mP1LJARPAc5V54xViZ48PSvz/s640/IMG_3136.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Some old structures surrounding the town square are now home to restaurants, little intriguing shops, a jewelry store, and other businesses. (see below)</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPVBcN0Fa6JDwsvZbiMob3UGdKsHekW7xJ6BhuKVmstO8D4bzqWOUH4m5FSVDBl2qMQNQMSbRiTGcpqRlKf7lI0Ys1L4H93l4qojhNetvV3l1NTs20Zr7Loa9cSsixQyJPeK7TbkcZ9R5/s1600/2012-03-16_13-33-50_507wside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPVBcN0Fa6JDwsvZbiMob3UGdKsHekW7xJ6BhuKVmstO8D4bzqWOUH4m5FSVDBl2qMQNQMSbRiTGcpqRlKf7lI0Ys1L4H93l4qojhNetvV3l1NTs20Zr7Loa9cSsixQyJPeK7TbkcZ9R5/s320/2012-03-16_13-33-50_507wside.jpg" width="241" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Buildings on Llano Square</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong>I was fascinated by the historical sign near the courthouse which tells about "The Woman's Culture Club" which was founded by Jennie Clopton, local music teacher in 1901, originally called the "Woman's Literary Society". This club established a public library, worked on beautification projects in public areas as well as other projects. </strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBahYaPU7QE5ygBbCG1CXb3emitiFzk042g3A0G5I9HidbroTskzEXrq0YeQ7bQhSpnsYfL1zrt8ivtbvvZhEH36fJYPr2lxPdmKH2z-MWlI4jxef1DlBVci8_a_hwEIGPxSotN9jzO0u/s1600/2012-03-16_11-34-15_450cultureclub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBahYaPU7QE5ygBbCG1CXb3emitiFzk042g3A0G5I9HidbroTskzEXrq0YeQ7bQhSpnsYfL1zrt8ivtbvvZhEH36fJYPr2lxPdmKH2z-MWlI4jxef1DlBVci8_a_hwEIGPxSotN9jzO0u/s320/2012-03-16_11-34-15_450cultureclub.jpg" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Woman's Culture Club of Llano</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></div><div align="justify" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong>My friend and I ate at The Acme Cafe, a restaurant in an old historic building on the square, where we had a delightful lunch. She ordered crab cakes and I had a vegetarian sandwich and soup. Here is a picture of the inside of the Acme. </strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3PRl7wVleY77aDUNPkSAFSmAdmK7paZ3GfBvccc3i3PNgoFU9rE_bIYO1NyAFQQD1i6ff5wMUk9RdpUrFHRHLsbtSQHrWGjO3Y9l10mS9Mre5NDrte_92M2EeOvBQfdrj2LPmVOpVbGtj/s1600/2012-03-16_13-17-27_500ACMEINSIDE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3PRl7wVleY77aDUNPkSAFSmAdmK7paZ3GfBvccc3i3PNgoFU9rE_bIYO1NyAFQQD1i6ff5wMUk9RdpUrFHRHLsbtSQHrWGjO3Y9l10mS9Mre5NDrte_92M2EeOvBQfdrj2LPmVOpVbGtj/s320/2012-03-16_13-17-27_500ACMEINSIDE.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Acme Cafe</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong>. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCpN_1bnFVsLshUXxUowmaeASt1AZq00vwsehHBHS7TQns-yG6YReIrMKgmzOScL1G8QtWjhtTIvIfq1aLnl5yrxu5lxcc8EN4pmmA3LN7RVk9kpPO6Hu2Eq9qV9ppQI7VWtHoNijf3B6/s1600/IMG_5447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCpN_1bnFVsLshUXxUowmaeASt1AZq00vwsehHBHS7TQns-yG6YReIrMKgmzOScL1G8QtWjhtTIvIfq1aLnl5yrxu5lxcc8EN4pmmA3LN7RVk9kpPO6Hu2Eq9qV9ppQI7VWtHoNijf3B6/s320/IMG_5447.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Acme Cafe</td></tr>
</tbody></table><h2><strong><span style="font-size: small;">There are several interesting restaurants in Llano and it is difficult to decide where to enjoy your meal. I look forward to trying breakfast or lunch next visit at The Berry St. Bakery (</span><a href="http://www.berrystreetbakery.com/"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.berrystreetbakery.com/</span></a><span style="font-size: small;">) which is in an older home and has an outdoor eating area, on the corner across from the square.</span></strong></h2><strong>During our visit to Llano, we also visited Jim's Jewelry on Main Street on the Square, a gift shop and Charlie's Furniture and Gift Shop. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<strong>Llano is known as "The deer capital of Texas" and the density of deer in the Llano Basin is greater than any other area in the United States. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<strong>"Phebe - Cottage Dreamer" blog would be incomplete without at least one cottage picture from Llano. This little cottage, near the old jail, intrigued me. The "Llano resident" that came out to greet us on our visit April, 2011 appeared to be part of the "neighborhood watch program." </strong></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSpGCvRRvYtT2Pn0U8M_9hCNAD07_GRoEEFMbvwPRmPnCzUdM1OO6RZky6BhIEc3dW03s8MSYU0BYzVYsUV4tNe7_WRiovUJuIfmE0PdX5wCAc04A4BwEwIl1tBBavGStDd5IkoMBPGan/s1600/IMG_3138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSpGCvRRvYtT2Pn0U8M_9hCNAD07_GRoEEFMbvwPRmPnCzUdM1OO6RZky6BhIEc3dW03s8MSYU0BYzVYsUV4tNe7_WRiovUJuIfmE0PdX5wCAc04A4BwEwIl1tBBavGStDd5IkoMBPGan/s400/IMG_3138.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small Llano Cottage </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgPJXIWImwTToCAapcgO8rUVKVyVXFqT2ZnRUxNkbi60rz996Vg9z843ItadM507cmS2a2dbB4q5R4hB7PUDxefD4wF8YfV7OFz4XH5glHpZXB4p2E1n1sQN8myrgoY84qQDfK15WEWwD/s1600/IMG_3140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgPJXIWImwTToCAapcgO8rUVKVyVXFqT2ZnRUxNkbi60rz996Vg9z843ItadM507cmS2a2dbB4q5R4hB7PUDxefD4wF8YfV7OFz4XH5glHpZXB4p2E1n1sQN8myrgoY84qQDfK15WEWwD/s320/IMG_3140.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken in Llano in April, 2011.<br />
Note: Many readers may be surprised that chickens are allowed in some Texas towns. <br />
However, they are even legal in the city of Austin, which boasts some amazing chicken coops.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><strong>Finally, a visit to the granite yard shows this granite "outhouse" with Dish Network receiver on top. They boast they can build anything out of granite - and this shows their sense of humor. </strong><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCY3rgqGoOkw3P359R1iPtddDiBPTIWXuaKcum9Zt_rvZEw-zEoa67K8e0Qp6abiq55CFTNHRRc0sgkfEz9XP6YzBNAINJDrNlcbLDPvPn_4m_FQWQ4dQxbVtsPt97-NDrMrfd3sBZFmr/s1600/IMG_3141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCY3rgqGoOkw3P359R1iPtddDiBPTIWXuaKcum9Zt_rvZEw-zEoa67K8e0Qp6abiq55CFTNHRRc0sgkfEz9XP6YzBNAINJDrNlcbLDPvPn_4m_FQWQ4dQxbVtsPt97-NDrMrfd3sBZFmr/s640/IMG_3141.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>On Rt. 29 near Llano, hundreds of people each year stop to photograph and enjoy a "Bald Eagle" pair and their offspring. The adults have nested for the winter for several years beside the Llano River close enough for visitors to view the baby eagles growing, eating, and learning to take flight. Last year the couple had one baby eagle; in 2012 they had "twins." </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNxH7Ui5X63VMA5SYKH4aSIBv96lM0asWbGalmt9tEg5Fw5ztMW0Q3iXwM9n0ZfqAcrA3jsGzmxcCAcbV3ZsRlcNuDiFxzLAqmY0Q662g7zg1jbh0MQpZ3183665YZdJ8jvAT03T9NN7Rq/s1600/Saturday+Bald+Eagle+Nest.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNxH7Ui5X63VMA5SYKH4aSIBv96lM0asWbGalmt9tEg5Fw5ztMW0Q3iXwM9n0ZfqAcrA3jsGzmxcCAcbV3ZsRlcNuDiFxzLAqmY0Q662g7zg1jbh0MQpZ3183665YZdJ8jvAT03T9NN7Rq/s640/Saturday+Bald+Eagle+Nest.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> (<strong>Last year's bald eagle in the nest (above photo) -I'm guessing this is mom or dad sitting on the eggs - I visited several times last year and enjoyed watching "Junior" grow and fly. It is a thrill to see the parent sitting over on another branch or tree as "Junior" begins to leave the nest and spread his wings. Babies do not develop the traditional white head until they are older. Eagle couples reportedly mate for life.)</strong></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmeg0bjcRBdfWGLWIYsDGoi2EaAfGKihC2OeuDWsgSSmavmDSKq_Xf9_re_L0eNYsWWRSt5D39uezeNyUepB6J6-i1PBUeqoXAxqYjonf0642Y1bhxOuuq2zfAsXXMIQ87D0_muj-8Lmdh/s1600/4photo.feb182011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmeg0bjcRBdfWGLWIYsDGoi2EaAfGKihC2OeuDWsgSSmavmDSKq_Xf9_re_L0eNYsWWRSt5D39uezeNyUepB6J6-i1PBUeqoXAxqYjonf0642Y1bhxOuuq2zfAsXXMIQ87D0_muj-8Lmdh/s400/4photo.feb182011.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parent in 2012 Watching Baby Eagle from Afar.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Until next time, Wishing you happiness and hoping you visit a small town near your home! Hugs, Phebe</strong></div><br />
<strong>(My thanks to the Llano Chamber of Commerce, and three websites for information about the Llano area. <a href="http://www.texfiles.com/llanotexas/aboutllano/yesterdaytoday/index.htm">http://www.texfiles.com/llanotexas/aboutllano/yesterdaytoday/index.htm</a> and</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.truewestmagazine.com/jcontent/living-the-dream/living-the-dream/true-western-towns/4254-llano-texas">http://www.truewestmagazine.com/jcontent/living-the-dream/living-the-dream/true-western-towns/4254-llano-texas</a>, and <a href="http://www.llanomainstreet.com/Redtopjail/Redtop.html">http://www.llanomainstreet.com/Redtopjail/Redtop.html</a>.<br />
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Note: All photos in the Llano blogs were taken by Phebe and may not be copied without permission.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<!-- End of StatCounter Code for Blogger / Blogspot -->Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0Rte 29, TX, USA30.7640106 -98.60750869999998330.6384451 -99.770193699999979 30.8895761 -97.444823699999986tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-71505346721004395882012-03-20T18:15:00.001-05:002012-03-20T18:20:33.815-05:00Visiting Llano (Part 2) - North side of Llano River<strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Llano is 65 miles northwest of Austin and 102 miles from San Antonio.</span></strong><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">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. </span></strong></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLLMBYaW6kE/T2jnuqpITQI/AAAAAAAAASQ/-rx6TJNYORY/s1600/2012-03-16_11-11-07_289" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLLMBYaW6kE/T2jnuqpITQI/AAAAAAAAASQ/-rx6TJNYORY/s320/2012-03-16_11-11-07_289" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above, the Llano River's view of the dam in Llano. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlD6nhmPKxFyWYTk7JcyurgQh6CsSV9fEzKAuKapRbbDd9gHKB2LIObU9qSX3LNUS2nttxvdINtKKnmoO50w5tAOhLU_T741juk4t2bdB0Qda-yIb5YCZLax161jtoSCRNmUTCmMUabAsk/s1600/hotel+-2.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlD6nhmPKxFyWYTk7JcyurgQh6CsSV9fEzKAuKapRbbDd9gHKB2LIObU9qSX3LNUS2nttxvdINtKKnmoO50w5tAOhLU_T741juk4t2bdB0Qda-yIb5YCZLax161jtoSCRNmUTCmMUabAsk/s400/hotel+-2.bmp" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Dabbs Hotel in Llano</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Courier New;">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.) </span></strong></div><br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Courier New;">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. </span></strong><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yBuGnRUDXCk/T2jq5gVtSJI/AAAAAAAAASY/CPWk8FUVqCU/s1600/2012-03-16_11-09-28_840" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yBuGnRUDXCk/T2jq5gVtSJI/AAAAAAAAASY/CPWk8FUVqCU/s320/2012-03-16_11-09-28_840" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p7APs-92Uwc/T2jrDAUjlNI/AAAAAAAAASg/PUjjrEE0p9g/s1600/2012-03-16_11-09-52_676" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p7APs-92Uwc/T2jrDAUjlNI/AAAAAAAAASg/PUjjrEE0p9g/s320/2012-03-16_11-09-52_676" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The plaque at the steps tells a bit about this very old cottage.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #990000;">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. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1mSgh442NK0/T2jrpT-AjYI/AAAAAAAAASo/ySsBLb11_mM/s1600/2012-03-16_11-11-37_688" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1mSgh442NK0/T2jrpT-AjYI/AAAAAAAAASo/ySsBLb11_mM/s320/2012-03-16_11-11-37_688" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">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)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-trH8-k9xKvM/T2jslyh1StI/AAAAAAAAATA/hG1iV2_mIk0/s1600/2012-03-16_11-23-03_437" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-trH8-k9xKvM/T2jslyh1StI/AAAAAAAAATA/hG1iV2_mIk0/s320/2012-03-16_11-23-03_437" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;">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. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Hugs, Phebe........................</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000;"> </span></div>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-43556963000285995912012-03-16T23:30:00.005-05:002012-03-16T23:43:15.334-05:00Day-Tripping in the Texas Hill Country<div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Texas Hill Country abounds with small towns that are wonderful places to explore one's love of cottages, to see what local life is like in the "Hill Country," and to sample the fun events of each town.</span></strong></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today, March 16, 2012 was such a trip for me. A friend and I went to Llano, the county seat of Llano County, west of Austin. Many of you know about Llano and have been there. Those of you from outside of Texas may not know about Llano.</span></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEAPYSoj7cYwACQmsJoR23PpsEr0ikmYXKU-me7jS4VpJTZWgbLbIXWoLOPQhUy8pnuQwo6OJi7gaPnz3_6MuC_mAwdUEt9xYjVfFe8bqT8UQaLaeRgKKmQQlEI1nn0MAGXBYHJYA_Ib0L/s320/2012-03-16_11-14-41_898.jpg" width="240" /> <strong>Llano, A Main Street City</strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong> <span style="color: red;"> *************</span></strong></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: red;">Before I tell about my trip, let me share with some folks who are local about tomorrow's fun </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: red;">event in Llano. Tomorrow from 1-3 p.m. in the historic business district there is an event: </span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="color: red;"><u>"Sample Delectable Desserts and Enter to Win a Gift Certificate" . </u></span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: red;"><br />
<u></u></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: red;">This event is sponsored by the Llano Main Street and the Llano County Journal. </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: red;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: red;">You may:</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: red;">Pick up a ballot at LanTex Theater.</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: red;"><strong>Visit </strong><strong>each of the 9 restaurants and sample a dessert. </strong></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: red;">Have your ballot initialed at each location. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: red;"><u>Choose the ONE restaurant whose dessert you liked the best.</u></span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: red;">Return your ballot to the LanTex Theater by 3:30 pm. on 3/17/12.</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: red;">At 4 p.m. a drawing will be held for a gift certificate. You don't have to be present to win.</span></strong><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: red;">This sounds like great fun on a Spring day. Hope some of you are able to attend.</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Below is the "Berry Street Bakery" one of the "sample sites".</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwx1I41r7UQFUvyc70fu_vxScsKYyDLY-Vys1JjPRaNm6I2Y7SKxKZdG5ju4zly5qfujl7GniYnGln27WVFCUzP8ZWX4CCj5Dz4F4wciBvPueo5fCYUI2BtOHNoZOkSbtUNBPaQvCR5kYg/s1600/2012-03-16_11-28-09_111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwx1I41r7UQFUvyc70fu_vxScsKYyDLY-Vys1JjPRaNm6I2Y7SKxKZdG5ju4zly5qfujl7GniYnGln27WVFCUzP8ZWX4CCj5Dz4F4wciBvPueo5fCYUI2BtOHNoZOkSbtUNBPaQvCR5kYg/s320/2012-03-16_11-28-09_111.jpg" width="244" /></a></div><strong> <span style="color: red;"> ****************</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>Today the spring flowers were wonderful: miles of Texas Bluebonnets on Rts. 1431 and 29, and spring trees, flowers, and bushes in full bloom in Llano. </strong></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLwLemFp5DJjk8vxcxoEH0i90yXo3D2wqWGGSOjwb8PYhG0AiGu1zOuBg-R8OuEi_8ZS70_4atoYVjZIBEKdr8SqFZpynay8_6iupKnXaSW1YT1t6xLhv9GuTKDtChA3JWyaoOvrytYLwG/s1600/2012-03-16_11-15-56_148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLwLemFp5DJjk8vxcxoEH0i90yXo3D2wqWGGSOjwb8PYhG0AiGu1zOuBg-R8OuEi_8ZS70_4atoYVjZIBEKdr8SqFZpynay8_6iupKnXaSW1YT1t6xLhv9GuTKDtChA3JWyaoOvrytYLwG/s320/2012-03-16_11-15-56_148.jpg" width="238" /></a>Beautiful Bridal Wreath</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r49ojtoSL70/T2P8xwOvKXI/AAAAAAAAAQE/9L4xSOK9TGc/s1600/2012-03-16_11-13-32_361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r49ojtoSL70/T2P8xwOvKXI/AAAAAAAAAQE/9L4xSOK9TGc/s320/2012-03-16_11-13-32_361.jpg" width="240" /></a>Blue Bonnets near the Museum</div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>Our first stop was at the Llano Visitor and Tourism Center housed in the Railroad Depot Building. </strong></span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7GZkwFbs_eIsx4F-ujfkCQeKuJDy9FSiPWt9cQwtgDuv4z8D0VAsLPIEB88cOLWbBzlM2lltnldDeCahtTekRE1cfM9ZMo_UqFuJ4bHzDQJVDaApLIhq2fPHgzXQTHjVhMzibRqcTWRxZ/s1600/llano+station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7GZkwFbs_eIsx4F-ujfkCQeKuJDy9FSiPWt9cQwtgDuv4z8D0VAsLPIEB88cOLWbBzlM2lltnldDeCahtTekRE1cfM9ZMo_UqFuJ4bHzDQJVDaApLIhq2fPHgzXQTHjVhMzibRqcTWRxZ/s320/llano+station.jpg" width="240" /></strong></span></a> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<strong><span style="color: blue;"></span></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>Llano residents appear to have an appreciation for their town's history and they have preserved and re-purposed many of the early buildings. </strong></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana;">Nearby the Railway Depot Building is the museum, some renovated homes, a "Hotel" overlooking the river, and a rustic cabin, all on the Rt. 29 side of the Llano River. </span></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana;">Over the next two blogs we will look at some of the quaint buildings, businesses, and the Llano Courthouse Square. </span></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana;">Hope you enjoy the tour of Llano half as much as I did today<span style="background-color: white;">.</span></span></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Verdana;">Remember...Allow a little fun into your life.</span></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Verdana;"> Until Next Time, </span></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="background-color: white;"><strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana;"> Hugs, Phebe </span></strong> </span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</div>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-42627445206160457342012-03-09T20:39:00.006-06:002012-03-09T22:14:53.139-06:00Spring Project - Bathroom<strong><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Finally, I have my Cottage indoor spring project finished - new towels and other accessories for my bathroom.</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">It was planned as a simple and inexpensive redecorating in which I just changed out some accessory colors. </span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I reported last blog that I had chosen two colors that make me feel really happy this year - Robins Egg blue and brown. To those, through this process, I guess I've added a third, cream. Things change as decorating goes along, doesn't it?</span></strong><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I didn't have a lot of money to invest and thought a change of colors might help. My bath is fairly new - my house was built in 2005. The cabinets are dark alder wood, counter tops, tub and shower walls are cream marble, and walls are an aged golden color - finished in a rough plaster over drywall with rounded edges throughout the house. The house was built and designed to look like an older English cottage. </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Amazingly, it has been fun to choose towels and other accessories. I found textured towels appealing this time. (Last time I chose all white towels - pretty bland). The covered containers on the large vanity are in blue and brown print. One container has birds on it so the cute little ceramic birds begged to go home with me from "Tuesday Morning." Use of such containers to place bath items and makeup limits clutter on countertops and makes them easier to clean. (from "Circle of Moms.com.-see below for link) </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFfxlvSik_vWdsMK1sWLQPMw-h2uSr4-JIhjcOJnWpplsUdNQA-uXYBZp0hoQB6i7pJkBaYgJTeve8H8MhZwUu1-I37lOPy8QHBW-exKOyRI9F0CFib61FMLWju2XtyV5Zk4DL7ps9wakC/s1600/IMG_5421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFfxlvSik_vWdsMK1sWLQPMw-h2uSr4-JIhjcOJnWpplsUdNQA-uXYBZp0hoQB6i7pJkBaYgJTeve8H8MhZwUu1-I37lOPy8QHBW-exKOyRI9F0CFib61FMLWju2XtyV5Zk4DL7ps9wakC/s320/IMG_5421.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">These photos below are of my smaller second vanity showing the new towels - the towels are hanging on the heated towel holder (from Bed Bath & Beyond) - one of my favorite luxuries that has become a necessity for me over the 4 years I've had one.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Trebuchet MS;"> </span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbySuaQxfRxlXHup0RGPYXTdhrf8Q7tv2bUdhaMYRdHwHytIjhcVv-ZKqTsv0uosxUrruLMkNjsNGFnkuwxXEOZmXPklteTM2CWzn50Uj4i6eS-EpDmnLvrqKXCQ4bkyTHHW5E8FDGpLc1/s1600/IMG_5404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbySuaQxfRxlXHup0RGPYXTdhrf8Q7tv2bUdhaMYRdHwHytIjhcVv-ZKqTsv0uosxUrruLMkNjsNGFnkuwxXEOZmXPklteTM2CWzn50Uj4i6eS-EpDmnLvrqKXCQ4bkyTHHW5E8FDGpLc1/s320/IMG_5404.JPG" width="240" /></a><strong><span style="color: #660000;">Not only is it wonderful to grab a warm towel when getting out of the shower on a cool morning, but the heated towel bars also dry your towel and washcloth</span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #660000;">and are great to dry delicates, sweaters, and other items you have laundered or scarves or mittens that were rained on.</span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #660000;">I wish you could feel the texture of the bath towels and washcloths. I fell for the beige bubble design ones and had to have them although they didn't really go with my color scheme. </span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #660000;">(They were also purchased from "Tuesday Morning." )</span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #660000;">My commode cover and rug are in Robins Egg blue - (purchased from Wal-Mart). I'm still looking for some wall accessories, including a picture to hang in the "water-closet." I have a shelf over the large vanity which you can partially see in the first photo, which has remained totally empty during my five years here. I plan to put my collection of teal "Blenko" WV hand-blown glass on the shelf and in the window over the whirlpool tub soon. </span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #660000;">My few new items have made taking a shower and using my bathroom much more enjoyable. </span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVe72kzD4-vdvd-j9Pnx1nrUXvboCvBvODTsywiKqKIJWqXSZNqqprv-alaTKVKEHDY8WURbLt-Cm5DPb9Y_Lx8_ZtZyAVFx5gKHcrvdy5br0ym9ckEGmdosHocsQWNPBgM2wTV52PvG27/s1600/IMG_5428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVe72kzD4-vdvd-j9Pnx1nrUXvboCvBvODTsywiKqKIJWqXSZNqqprv-alaTKVKEHDY8WURbLt-Cm5DPb9Y_Lx8_ZtZyAVFx5gKHcrvdy5br0ym9ckEGmdosHocsQWNPBgM2wTV52PvG27/s320/IMG_5428.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The striped step-out rug is "Better Homes & Gardens" brand from Wal-Mart.</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24DVTyVOoB2FyFteFzQVK2ADZNh_UvJqQBvkhkXBlg7HJHBTZ2pBZlYiEzzZntyGHjOStJdz1GlzjHNyjlCEoywS111BMfzqC6m1-CTf1Aq6MsXZkgTbVU9m5HGHwEs63oXOhJbfjVRvS/s1600/IMG_5408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi24DVTyVOoB2FyFteFzQVK2ADZNh_UvJqQBvkhkXBlg7HJHBTZ2pBZlYiEzzZntyGHjOStJdz1GlzjHNyjlCEoywS111BMfzqC6m1-CTf1Aq6MsXZkgTbVU9m5HGHwEs63oXOhJbfjVRvS/s400/IMG_5408.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This morning I enjoyed one of the "bubble" washcloths.</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #660000;">Until next time I'm wishing you soothing, enjoyable bathing experiences also.</span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #660000;">Phebey</span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>for some good cleaning tips: <a href="http://www.circleofmoms.com/article/5-tips-keeping-bathrooms-clean-03068?trk=digest_editorial_3068&email_enc=lsOqzdecp8zcpsLVzZTEoqY%253D&email_src=1331338849bcfe0024d770baf84db8ab670c042eed&template_name=digest_weekly_2&subject_id=950f1561cb53014b243b26db9f35227b%3A0&has_fb=1#_">http://www.circleofmoms.com/article/5-tips-keeping-bathrooms-clean-03068?trk=digest_editorial_3068&email_enc=lsOqzdecp8zcpsLVzZTEoqY%253D&email_src=1331338849bcfe0024d770baf84db8ab670c042eed&template_name=digest_weekly_2&subject_id=950f1561cb53014b243b26db9f35227b%3A0&has_fb=1#_</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-47564716618184891492012-03-07T22:06:00.000-06:002012-03-07T22:06:55.489-06:00I've Chosen My Colors For My Spring Project! Have You?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">I chose two of my favorite decorating colors for my bathroom towel and accessory colors....Robin's Egg blue and brown...................................................................</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fALJhR_a1g4/T0wD_W8aMCI/AAAAAAAAALQ/M8fdY0_XFOg/s1600/2012-02-27_15-57-38_862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fALJhR_a1g4/T0wD_W8aMCI/AAAAAAAAALQ/M8fdY0_XFOg/s320/2012-02-27_15-57-38_862.jpg" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Because I don't want to see makeup and other clutter on the white marble countertop, I plan to use decorative boxes for storage.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">The boxes and towels are from "Tuesday Morning". </span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">The Romanesque brand towels, washcloths and hand towels are Robins Egg blue and white of long staple combed Turkish cotton. Bath rug and commode cover were made in the USA and were purchased at Wal-Mart. </span>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-17302057596527889592012-02-28T09:59:00.001-06:002012-02-28T10:10:04.883-06:00My Choice for Spring<b>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. </b><br />
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<b>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).</b><br />
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<b>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. </b><br />
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<b>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.</b><br />
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<b>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. </b><br />
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<b>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.</b><br />
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<b>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. </b><br />
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<b>Happy planning and sharing! I am waiting to hear what your decorating project will be. Also, tell me your favorite colors at this time. </b><br />
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<b>Enjoy! Phebe</b>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-62982280078166134402012-02-27T16:51:00.002-06:002012-02-27T19:44:05.560-06:00Spring Fever! Do you have it? What do you do with it?<b>Hi, All,</b><br />
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</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>It has been quite a dry spell for me, writing on this blog. There IS a good explanation,</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>- the terminal illness and death of my dearest male friend. </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>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.)</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>However, today, Feb. 27, 2012, I'd say Spring Fever has hit me with a burst of fresh air and enthusiasm. </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>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. </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>This year, I am starting to experience Spring Fever a bit early. What about you? Has Spring Fever hit you yet? </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>What project would you most like to accomplish this Spring?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Let's work on ours together...if you <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: yellow; color: #674ea7;">will</span> 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. </b><br />
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<b>Best wishes! Let me hear from you, please. Phebe</b><br />
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<b>View the entire blog at - </b><br />
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<b>Phebe-CottageDreamer@blogspot.com. and take the latest poll. </b><br />
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</b></div>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-65057379461455447132012-01-09T14:16:00.004-06:002012-01-11T21:50:29.991-06:00Organizing My Worst Clutter SpotI attended a Ladies Club Christmas party in December. There I overheard one lady ask the hostess what she kept in the shallow drawers in the small chest beside her favorite recliner... was it her sewing or craft items? The hostess hesitated and then responded, "No, I've given up crafts - it's just stuff." She opened one drawer to show that her telephone book, her TV controls, and various other items were in those narrow drawers, at her fingertips. She opened another drawer to show stamps, and writing supplies. <br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I was impressed with her small chest holding so much out of sight. I came home to my portable computer stand, which sits beside my favorite chair. It never has room for my portable laptop computer because I always have it full of "clutter." I also have spread out to the raised fireplace hearth, and to the window sill, where my address book, camera, and cell phone sit, along with various other items that are handy to my needs in my favorite chair. This "clutter" has regrown since the holidays, when I had it fairly well cleaned up. I'd take a photo for you, but I'd be too embarrassed. Let's just say that my computer mouse fell off the computer stand for the second time today with batteries and cover scattering in various directions, and from which other items fall frequently. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Our hostess' organizational skills remained a source of fascination to me throughout the holidays and I looked at Walmart and other stores for a couple of weeks, hoping to find a sewing or craft table that would be similar. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Finally, with the many on-line catalogs that arrived with the New Year, I received a catalog from <u>Home Decorators.com.,</u> a Home Depot company, and was pleased to see a cart that would work beside my recliner. The Stanton Storage Cart I ordered has six drawers and is 26 inches tall by 20 inches wide. It is delivered "fully assembled" with the exception of 4 casters which were easily installed by me, the least handy woman in the US. I had a choice of finishes and choice of sizes. Mine cost $152 and there was a $10 coupon so the actual cost was $150.88 including tax, with free shipping on storage items for a limited time. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It arrived within days and the delivery man offered to put it inside for me. It weighs approximately 50 lbs. and I happily accepted his offer. I opened the <u>very well wrapped</u> wooden cart and installed the feet in approximately 30 minutes. I have yet to fill it, other than to put my television remote and telephones inside, but the manufacturers suggest that heavy items be placed in the bottom. I ordered the cherry finish cart, although I fell in love with the blue one but it didn't come in this "wide" size. Mine came in a choice of dark cherry, black, white or oak. The cart is made of solid "Rubberwood", grown on a plantation, renewable and thus production doesn't endanger the environment. Mine has a nice, smooth finish and is very sturdy. Country of origin is Thailand. Since the nice finish may be scratched or damaged by my drinks and other items, I put a square granite chessboard on the top, with a protective mat underneat but a tray or cut glass top would work.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmnnUw1HV_V-ifNjJtnOp1HEuKT4wYbKE3fIVzTkO8ToZVoXy4ZZXDSczdKptaY8tjNQT3kW9GJItpUeUFAXCSeCjUa1jGIqmmW0kQYEKamLG-OMt5dTFhJovFHfBAeHRgXd2D06AwwbEi/s1600/IMG_5077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmnnUw1HV_V-ifNjJtnOp1HEuKT4wYbKE3fIVzTkO8ToZVoXy4ZZXDSczdKptaY8tjNQT3kW9GJItpUeUFAXCSeCjUa1jGIqmmW0kQYEKamLG-OMt5dTFhJovFHfBAeHRgXd2D06AwwbEi/s320/IMG_5077.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I will blog again soon about this wonderful cart that is sure to improve my degree of organization if not improve the quality of my life. I am amazed at my "Logitech" red cordless computer mouse, because it has been dropped at least twice daily for at least six months and continues to work. Maybe now its life will be extended.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Happy days!!! Tonight and tomorrow I will figure out where to put my 3 piles of clutter. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">See you soon! Phebe</div>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-61697014649877934852012-01-08T21:10:00.000-06:002012-01-08T21:10:20.319-06:00Interesting Thought Regarding Lack of OrganizationI'm still excited about my New Year's resolution of becoming more organized in 2012. <br />
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How organized are you? Are you happy with your home's organization?<br />
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<strong>Did you know"The average American spends 1 year of their life looking for misplaced items." </strong><br />
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( DIY Network's<strong><u> 10 Best Space Saving Solutions</u> </strong>on Saturday, January 7, 2012)<br />
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Are you "average", above average, or below average in organizational skills?<br />
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What area would you like to be more organized in?...or are you one of those few very organized people?Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-55600036416288148912012-01-04T18:43:00.000-06:002012-01-04T18:43:55.312-06:00January Dreaming: A Organized Life<strong>Good January, Cottage Dreamers:</strong><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<strong>Many of us try to jazz up our holiday let-down with New Years resolutions and planning for spring.</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>I had a fabulous Christmas season enjoying my little lake cottage with family, including two of my children, my teen grandson and friends. Too busy to blog through the last part of December, although I had good intentions. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Now, I, too, am making New Years resolutions that will make my life better in 2012. I aspire to better organization this year. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>At my age it may be too much to hope for me to become a totally organized person, : ( but it is a fine goal and for me, any movement toward that goal will improve my life. I spend a lot of time "looking for things." Currently I've misplaced an important check; often each month I spend a lot of time around the 15th looking for my postcard water bill. Oh, how I wish for a system where I put things in their proper spot. Maybe, soon, I will be able to do that.</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Cottages often do not have enough storage, and that is true for mine. As homes go in my neighborhood, mine is considered small by neighbors. So often, when asked where I live and I tell them, they reply, "Oh, the little house." Because it has soaring ceilings, I do not think of it as small, but it actually is. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>I started planning late last year to improve my life by creating a mudroom area in my house. I envy the mudrooms seen in home improvement books or new home design books that show lockers for each family member to store outside gear, shoes, etc. I thought of what my greatest needs are and realized I don't really need a traditional mudroom. We seldom have a need for cold weather boots, lots of gloves, and down coats in my area of Texas. If I used those items, I would surely want a place to stash them. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>My storage needs include a place to stash pet supplies and a place for my two cats to sleep and eat. They have been garage kitties at night, but they enjoyed sleeping on the top of my van so much they created long scratches on the hood, and after it was recently painted, I decided I had to find a better place for them to sleep. For three months, the car has been in the driveway and the kitties have slept in the garage. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>The January-February 2012 issue of <u>This Old House</u> magazine offers some great storage tips. Immediately I was drawn to the cover which says: "Same house, more space, and lots less clutter!" This perfectly states my resolution for 2012. </strong><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>One suggestion in this issue, page 106, is a "mini-mudroom" (see below).</strong><br />
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</div><strong>I imagine most homes, even small condos and apartments can create a "mini-mudroom" if that is something the owner desires. A mini-mudroom also may be located in a converted bookshelf, armoire, coat closet or cabinet near the entry door. Doors or a curtain will hide the clutter. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<strong><div style="text-align: justify;">I have a very small laundry room and I have stored cleaning supplies, the sweeper, brooms, and mops there.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">My double car garage is extra-wide, and I decided that a mudroom in the corner of the garage would meet my needs nicely. My son, <em>bless him</em>, built me an 8 by 8 room over New Years weekend. I will use this for my cat sisters' bedroom, as well as for storing my cleaning items that now clutter my laundry room. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Although not yet finished, my kitties and I have moved in. Haven't decided wall colors yet, but have picked up some Martha Stewart paint samples from Home Depot.</div></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Here is a photo of one of my kitties, Ellie, happy in her new home. (The rug is an indoor-outdoor one from Home Depot.) </strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uCjSwFuWI3U/TwTgeqjXDxI/AAAAAAAAAJM/fIh4mc1TlO4/s1600/IMG_5049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uCjSwFuWI3U/TwTgeqjXDxI/AAAAAAAAAJM/fIh4mc1TlO4/s320/IMG_5049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong>Her sister, Annie, (below) likes to eat and sleep on the computer desk I placed in the room for the cats to eat on so that my family dog can't easily eat too much cat food. My cats enjoy eating up high, and the old yellow bathroom rug I placed on the table makes a comfortable bed, although they also have a heated electric puppy pad on the floor.</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w-u3dVdGMCU/TwTkvsgOQCI/AAAAAAAAAJg/hCv3YSkFhLA/s1600/IMG_5011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w-u3dVdGMCU/TwTkvsgOQCI/AAAAAAAAAJg/hCv3YSkFhLA/s320/IMG_5011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<strong>When the room has been painted I will post more photos. The walls are wooden unfinished beadboard 4 by 8 panels. Organized life, I'm on my way! </strong><br />
<strong> </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Happy Cottage Dreaming! Phebe </strong></div></div>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-17695615980590388102011-12-03T16:32:00.000-06:002011-12-03T22:01:21.764-06:00Doing the Laundry - Now and in the 1930's and 1940's...<strong> <u>Laundry Day, Now and Then</u>...</strong><br />
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</div><div align="justify"><strong>My fairly new front loading washer started giving me the flashing sign this week, telling me it needed to be freshened and cleaned. I had to go find some washer "cleaner/freshener" at the grocery store that was compatible with front loading washers that require HE detergent before I could wash again. I grumbled at the inconvenience and wondered why a washer that is designed to clean clothes, needs to be washed? I've done laundry for 48 years and have never had to clean my washer. As I read the instructions, I saw that you put the "cleaner/freshener" in the detergent cup, turn on the washer and wash for about 5 minutes, and then pause it for about 5 hours, before finishing. I thought crankily, I guess I won't be washing that quilt today, after all. I had really wanted it on the bed tonight, as we are expecting a cold front.</strong></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><strong>As I was looking through an old cookbook today, I came across an article that I had torn out of one of my favorite magazines, <u>Country Living,</u> November 1991 edition called :<u>Doin' The Wash,</u> by Mary Seehafer Sears.</strong></div><div align="justify"><br />
<strong>Reading about women's laundry day at the turn of the century made me sorry and ashamed I was complaining about my washer. </strong></div><div align="justify"><br />
<strong>Ms. Sears said: Mondays were wash day, an arduous, dusk-to-dawn undertaking. "Wash day" usually occurred on Monday because clothes were changed for church and Sunday dinner the day before and it was just logical to do the laundry the next day. Every woman wished for bright sunny weather on Mondays. Clothes were soaked the night before. On Monday, in the basement or outdoors if the weather was fine, pots were set to boiling. Washday routine included sorting, washing, rinsing, and wringing the clothes. When ready, the wash was hung on outdoor clotheslines. In bad weather, they were hung in the basement to dry--and dry--and dry. </strong></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><strong>Ok, now I'm feeling pretty ashamed at my thoughts of my "hardship" of having to go get the washer "cleaner/freshener," waiting for the washer to clean itself, and then throwing in a load of clothes. No boiling the water, no making starch, no rinsing, no wringing, and no walking up from the basement to hang out clothes or back downstairs to iron them. </strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_mK-7g28E2z8uSmgzlOEUvWBCeLvUoI6LrNmZdIIDXs0uhcswb-YFOIGDygfE4E3RRW_wCRrDUC-CZ77poQiiC6V95T-p8jHgNNE57hSifVO1dhVpcSTJb2YYwlUN4FoNZT1fdqXCbnM/s1600/17625245857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_mK-7g28E2z8uSmgzlOEUvWBCeLvUoI6LrNmZdIIDXs0uhcswb-YFOIGDygfE4E3RRW_wCRrDUC-CZ77poQiiC6V95T-p8jHgNNE57hSifVO1dhVpcSTJb2YYwlUN4FoNZT1fdqXCbnM/s320/17625245857.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><strong>I remember my grandmother doing laundry for a family of five, at the age of 60 in the 1940's and 1950's. Her wringer washer was in the basement and she had to carry each basket upstairs inside the house and down the 5-6 stairs on the back outside stairs to hang the clothes outside. She then gathered the dry clothes, took them back to the basement, where she ironed each piece of clothing, including bed sheets, and then carried them back upstairs to the bedroom. This memory makes me wonder exactly how many times she climbed stairs on washday? </strong></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><strong>I realize how privileged I am, to have a nice inside first floor washer and dryer. My only hardship is that my washer and dryer needs to be reversed because I have to reach over the washer door to put my clothes in the laundry. When that gets switched, my laundry chores will be even easier. I seldom visit my iron...I'm ashamed to say.</strong></div><div align="justify"><strong> </strong></div><div align="justify"><strong>Also, in Mary Sears' article is a copy of an anonymous note (c.1900) on display at the Whistler Museum and Archives, in Whistler, British Columbia, entitled <span style="color: #274e13;">"Recipe for Washing Clothes"</span> which described washday in the following 12 steps. </strong></div><div align="justify"><strong> ~~~~~~~</strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">1. Build fire in back yard to heat kettle.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">2. Set tubs so smoke won't blow in eyes if wind is pert.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">3. Shove one whole cake of lye soap in boiling water.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">4. Sort things. Make 1 pile coloured, 1 pile white, 1 pile breeches and rags. </span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">5. Stir flour in cold water to smooth. Thin down with boiling water. Starch.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">6, Rub dirty spots on board, scrub hard, then boil. Just rinse and starch.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">7. Take white things out of kettle with broom handle. Then rinse, blue and starch.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">8. Spread tea towels on grass; others on fence.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">9. Put rinse water on flower beds.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">10. Scrub porch with soapy water.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">11. Turn over the tubs to drain.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;">12. Go put on a clean dress. Smooth hair with side combs. Brew tea. Sit and rest.</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;"> Rock a spell. Count your blessings.......</span></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="color: #274e13;"> ~~~~~~~~~~</span></em> </strong></div><div align="justify"><br />
</div><div align="justify"><strong>Ok, I'm <u><span style="color: #0b5394;">really</span></u> ashamed. Just imagine doing laundry for a husband, six to 12 children, and yourself. (In those days large families were fairly common.) </strong></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><strong>This afternoon, I'm going to sit and watch TV and blog a bit, while my new washer cleans itself. It is raining outside and today is Saturday, but I may still have time to wash my quilt and dry it before bedtime. Electric washers and dryers are miracle machines....and I have a new perspective on what doing the laundry means! Piece of cake!!!</strong><br />
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<strong>And now we know why cottages of old had back porches.....don't we?</strong><br />
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<strong>Pleasant daydreams! Phebe</strong></div><div align="justify"></div>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-91312474943277504712011-12-01T13:25:00.000-06:002011-12-01T13:25:34.688-06:00Cottages that Grew and Grew......<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A friend is fond of saying that a young couple builds a small three room cottage for the two of them, then the wife wants a back porch. Once the back porch is built, later it will need to be screened.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Soon the couple has a child; the cottage needs to be bigger, so the couple encloses the back porch so the baby has a room. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Gradually, the cottage grows from 3 rooms, to four rooms, etc.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Here are some photos of cottages that have apparently grown, as a family's needs increase. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Below, a gorgeous newly renovated cottage in Marble Falls, Texas....and how it grew and grew..... Note, the chimney on the side of the front view can be seen again in the second photo, near the front side. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavxRKuhJiUCMSLj4hvrZ47fu3ppzpZLGcdBpIqglT4LmlcxJ-mGrOp2pxcEI08a15Bc1lKIxLxwoZhJih91fVIkmuUSq-OFCEOMjf6lFB9QYH-gLL0hbAMhj64y3_2ICE9wgJ-AL7tHC5/s1600/IMG_4758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavxRKuhJiUCMSLj4hvrZ47fu3ppzpZLGcdBpIqglT4LmlcxJ-mGrOp2pxcEI08a15Bc1lKIxLxwoZhJih91fVIkmuUSq-OFCEOMjf6lFB9QYH-gLL0hbAMhj64y3_2ICE9wgJ-AL7tHC5/s400/IMG_4758.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqUN8Wz2SDoVKRpnbDGJh5p5av-qGLlbOmNV4CjLi5FrViB1fAZEudwC_BfCmrQmfSJfZJ6mqGJ22Ck28J-683vJwlt_xapvell-EQi3EB_xtNCaJZNj5O6YaI8sgpBT_vZ34MAdhSXw9-/s1600/IMG_4761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqUN8Wz2SDoVKRpnbDGJh5p5av-qGLlbOmNV4CjLi5FrViB1fAZEudwC_BfCmrQmfSJfZJ6mqGJ22Ck28J-683vJwlt_xapvell-EQi3EB_xtNCaJZNj5O6YaI8sgpBT_vZ34MAdhSXw9-/s400/IMG_4761.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The next cottage that grew is located in the lakeside community of Highland Haven, Texas. The cottage is on the lake and actually looks like two cottages joined together. They are painted different colors to highlight the differences.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqbku-Jp0NCuMJi0ONj2P0DelDKGL0QW_KKuLzIQNaRdFUIJL22L4WDQ0Gtb76gAyM7SeatZIwO0OKMn4JZum64_6WLYmXg3LTEo3nWC76WiZWzjv1KwNwI66Zki9aH64eg-aXmQxVq8kC/s1600/IMG_4767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqbku-Jp0NCuMJi0ONj2P0DelDKGL0QW_KKuLzIQNaRdFUIJL22L4WDQ0Gtb76gAyM7SeatZIwO0OKMn4JZum64_6WLYmXg3LTEo3nWC76WiZWzjv1KwNwI66Zki9aH64eg-aXmQxVq8kC/s400/IMG_4767.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3V2gaTR-BiVqBy_-NCVv7D3QUuZkZ5KsQu1zwnp-njnJw5LG5R9OON2MK78d2uWlkPInWeK2t2mGy4cowt15efYrwEKJH6JKP2wHlVBgPR0XDEu1yO3q6YhP1zxqLfftdTCJVy4NDrDP/s1600/IMG_4765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3V2gaTR-BiVqBy_-NCVv7D3QUuZkZ5KsQu1zwnp-njnJw5LG5R9OON2MK78d2uWlkPInWeK2t2mGy4cowt15efYrwEKJH6JKP2wHlVBgPR0XDEu1yO3q6YhP1zxqLfftdTCJVy4NDrDP/s400/IMG_4765.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="justify" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And third, a Fredricksburg, Texas cottage that is an eye-stopper! </div><div align="justify" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiER2DY2gCDZbv8y2MeY5Ijs7cWbz4F9IM8DFQbmRk5YBfJoZiof6eaXj_jPExYOFIFQqA2MByGIJtNkvMzB7vC0zUiVwMKXtLmQq62rg9Sasyal5UufJaIbCdccsjBkM0u2_IcTxKzPuAd/s1600/IMG_3231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiER2DY2gCDZbv8y2MeY5Ijs7cWbz4F9IM8DFQbmRk5YBfJoZiof6eaXj_jPExYOFIFQqA2MByGIJtNkvMzB7vC0zUiVwMKXtLmQq62rg9Sasyal5UufJaIbCdccsjBkM0u2_IcTxKzPuAd/s320/IMG_3231.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Do you wonder if it was once two log cottages, on separate lots? How much I'd love to know the history of these three cottages. I may have to make a return visit and ask. If so, I will give you an update. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwO_7R-D9shcoRbLUfB7XtKqKDdx-Gvb96XBCD6vLbzhFxlgYt5OsqJ0bmz288XAWkLTf_XDsXq9K2asLhyphenhyphenb3yIXBbTPdae4AIF82j7ekNaDj8HysgE_xdM3YgVTGHlZUaz2s8i6z0mpK/s1600/IMG_3232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwO_7R-D9shcoRbLUfB7XtKqKDdx-Gvb96XBCD6vLbzhFxlgYt5OsqJ0bmz288XAWkLTf_XDsXq9K2asLhyphenhyphenb3yIXBbTPdae4AIF82j7ekNaDj8HysgE_xdM3YgVTGHlZUaz2s8i6z0mpK/s320/IMG_3232.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">and finally, although this probably doesn't qualify as a cottage, it is made of stone, and is a very old home, in Stonewall, Texas. I'd guess it has been added on to...and I love it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYZioMnGb-5Rsr3x_jEDPSoMgUn_mvxAlihQ0j_3zi97kUNttYFc4pyADEglHQKxMLpHMcKLNEgMXmdIgATCrRcE9GzUTEVfXNfrpHqUvRs9gz2UBrC7xDNMT0zWDRr0sLbcsNLCnFNGo/s1600/IMG_3191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYZioMnGb-5Rsr3x_jEDPSoMgUn_mvxAlihQ0j_3zi97kUNttYFc4pyADEglHQKxMLpHMcKLNEgMXmdIgATCrRcE9GzUTEVfXNfrpHqUvRs9gz2UBrC7xDNMT0zWDRr0sLbcsNLCnFNGo/s320/IMG_3191.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What a wonderful old country estate near the LBJ birthplace! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I'll be back soon with Blog # 4. Until then, Pleasant Day Dreams! Phebe</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-67196593548062302412011-11-30T19:58:00.000-06:002011-12-01T12:36:47.637-06:00Great Little Cottages in Central Texas<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></div>_______________________________<br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="color: #990000;"><strong>There are many older small cottages in the Hill Country of Texas. </strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><strong>This stone cottage in Fredricksburg, Texas with prominent chimney is characteristic of many older Texas stone cottages. I love the porches and red shutters. Surely would love to see inside.</strong></span> </div>_________________________________<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>San Angelo is in West Central Texas. At Fort Concho, a frontier fort and National Historic Landmark, several officers' cottages are similar to the Fredricksburg cottage in design, which makes me wonder if the dates of construction may be similar. The officers cottages were built in the 1860's. One is available currently for dignitaries or for overnight rental by the public. Several have period furnishings and artwork and are open for tours. </strong></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHAfNV-w5WWPIRdePMmSnvzxXeA-OiFH6uHfukQd7mq8rTW7XafaVbHk-bFRvLqDDRVEUy_s5ZhfuB8vBijQH485i5YznFtUo85UIM6PH8GB3CpqBQpUWOxWqby1LSCEQUYfVrmy0LQUx6/s1600/IMG_4250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHAfNV-w5WWPIRdePMmSnvzxXeA-OiFH6uHfukQd7mq8rTW7XafaVbHk-bFRvLqDDRVEUy_s5ZhfuB8vBijQH485i5YznFtUo85UIM6PH8GB3CpqBQpUWOxWqby1LSCEQUYfVrmy0LQUx6/s200/IMG_4250.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrhPp7bkmCx2c7UEYESEVfH9SLkn_9Q_1vTbpg0j9j_QGI8nUifPSyKrHrfE1IkFBO-7-j3gfNmPPyOgcKDfKuxImJAHDCCR2JS-ie-LtwXmV7XtTzRqKFtUA5XF9uT5oHkXDiZe2npD5/s1600/IMG_4207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrhPp7bkmCx2c7UEYESEVfH9SLkn_9Q_1vTbpg0j9j_QGI8nUifPSyKrHrfE1IkFBO-7-j3gfNmPPyOgcKDfKuxImJAHDCCR2JS-ie-LtwXmV7XtTzRqKFtUA5XF9uT5oHkXDiZe2npD5/s200/IMG_4207.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;"><strong>Three attractive cottages are located at the LBJ National Park in Stonewall, Texas.</strong></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBEIDcwgkUdF7CZxEMf8OfIIkeDID9hg8dr2B7rufu6or7DHNArrvupc63_5xRra9vrK5fddf3VnuJI6wnk-JlZzUknmBjQVs6TQnj0Ts36-n4gLmeEV6S4DksOBltprNcGSuGigIvEOJ/s1600/IMG_3170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBEIDcwgkUdF7CZxEMf8OfIIkeDID9hg8dr2B7rufu6or7DHNArrvupc63_5xRra9vrK5fddf3VnuJI6wnk-JlZzUknmBjQVs6TQnj0Ts36-n4gLmeEV6S4DksOBltprNcGSuGigIvEOJ/s320/IMG_3170.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;"><strong>This red and white cottage was the home of Sam Ealy Johnson Sr. Sam was Lyndon B. Johnson's grandfather. This home is not open to tourists. </strong></span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;"><strong>Another small white cottage, where Lyndon Johnson was born and lived for his first four years has a dogtrot separating the living and child's room section from the parents' bedroom. This home is open to be viewed through dutch doors. Furnishings are similar in period to what was there when Lyndon and his parents lived there.</strong> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidcjXi0KF7GDb-JRnKMQXid54Jh6qhM1T8ygCgHynJjqE36hDpZKOTueKTCrxsJcSrHojxwb-FcwByfz9aSMZA3uf7NuW3RIlRno7CZPdWi5nNmQW0nofG0e5ex_g-So3rnHrU5W8k3meT/s1600/IMG_0886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidcjXi0KF7GDb-JRnKMQXid54Jh6qhM1T8ygCgHynJjqE36hDpZKOTueKTCrxsJcSrHojxwb-FcwByfz9aSMZA3uf7NuW3RIlRno7CZPdWi5nNmQW0nofG0e5ex_g-So3rnHrU5W8k3meT/s320/IMG_0886.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;"><strong>Another small cottage sits across from the main large Johnson house, and is a home occupied by family when they visit the ranch. It is not open for tours.</strong></span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;">================================</span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong>These extremely small privately owned cottages are quaint and attractive. I <em>love</em> cottage screen doors. </strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01q7N3xJv4i9yqOTl_NpH89RCudbwM64XiENFKmmzcLxyqs83ghipYGf6ckULZxKDBKuea2jtrBblSAVt7luMpuyhHKouDMcnoNZa9tWd_Ni8ClSvxJ0b__4wFTK4dAA74TcIklQ_7o4-/s1600/IMG_3237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01q7N3xJv4i9yqOTl_NpH89RCudbwM64XiENFKmmzcLxyqs83ghipYGf6ckULZxKDBKuea2jtrBblSAVt7luMpuyhHKouDMcnoNZa9tWd_Ni8ClSvxJ0b__4wFTK4dAA74TcIklQ_7o4-/s320/IMG_3237.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFdpgHJTXy4dDQIpth1g6e9MkTSoeMRc_NWm-XKOp0WelnJmIVGHmEPYFWcHZDqxQjsb0k7uhhwlUjkyaBSSfWKLVu7rqpJL92wO0cWEQNolk0P-8VpqTY8d2pifxdF2MntJan8m3tisn/s1600/IMG_3243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFdpgHJTXy4dDQIpth1g6e9MkTSoeMRc_NWm-XKOp0WelnJmIVGHmEPYFWcHZDqxQjsb0k7uhhwlUjkyaBSSfWKLVu7rqpJL92wO0cWEQNolk0P-8VpqTY8d2pifxdF2MntJan8m3tisn/s320/IMG_3243.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcGSE5N6Afth8DHTAn-NaL8MCRyX_a4jLWVl67HCQsCj0n5RHAWSKx9pCgIef14tQe7A0liLSax-Qzu9YFY6_tS0pY9B_IQ_Lxsw7s7xOH6iqrX8YhVQ7mMhEi6nvNyvODSNv6b689R-U/s1600/IMG_3138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcGSE5N6Afth8DHTAn-NaL8MCRyX_a4jLWVl67HCQsCj0n5RHAWSKx9pCgIef14tQe7A0liLSax-Qzu9YFY6_tS0pY9B_IQ_Lxsw7s7xOH6iqrX8YhVQ7mMhEi6nvNyvODSNv6b689R-U/s320/IMG_3138.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZCrPyjmXD48caKxCyuc4MLs_q6unD5dwupdv7U0xONFvFYAF7fM25XtNeK7hVpaPrBIjvZN8BwLQ_LsEpRjhirH0HMhyssikReb9cP8dF-4uB33dIHTgPpdtqsQjFZC1NynLqJwsCVaF/s1600/IMG_3234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZCrPyjmXD48caKxCyuc4MLs_q6unD5dwupdv7U0xONFvFYAF7fM25XtNeK7hVpaPrBIjvZN8BwLQ_LsEpRjhirH0HMhyssikReb9cP8dF-4uB33dIHTgPpdtqsQjFZC1NynLqJwsCVaF/s320/IMG_3234.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><strong><span style="color: #990000;">In the past 30-40 years, homebuyers have wanted</span> larger and larger houses which caused the cottage to fall out of favor with home buyers who aspired to "Mc-Mansions" but with the housing crisis, loans difficult to obtain, and the increasing desire of some homeowners for smaller cozy homes, the more affordable cottage style in new or older cottages are likely to be in demand, especially with mid-income families.</strong></span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #990000;">Pleasant Day Dreams......Phebe</span></strong></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: #990000;"><u>Post #3: Some cottages grow and grow....</u></span></strong></div><strong><span style="color: #990000;"></span></strong>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974054340618183847.post-26806532800387547162011-11-28T00:30:00.000-06:002011-11-29T22:49:00.553-06:00My Cottage ~ 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92tKNXI4qo0iibA5uZ34jvSFCShDpH6eSc-xDoGosXAOG6LZv-PNwLWbaLmYfWDF3xT_UooZWbU569uOxDYTVwEXPOJNn3N6_KqM3wwpe1tukLImv5GwvWEiR9ojYl6FbC1a2xurWVesf/s1600/IMG_3521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92tKNXI4qo0iibA5uZ34jvSFCShDpH6eSc-xDoGosXAOG6LZv-PNwLWbaLmYfWDF3xT_UooZWbU569uOxDYTVwEXPOJNn3N6_KqM3wwpe1tukLImv5GwvWEiR9ojYl6FbC1a2xurWVesf/s1600/IMG_3521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92tKNXI4qo0iibA5uZ34jvSFCShDpH6eSc-xDoGosXAOG6LZv-PNwLWbaLmYfWDF3xT_UooZWbU569uOxDYTVwEXPOJNn3N6_KqM3wwpe1tukLImv5GwvWEiR9ojYl6FbC1a2xurWVesf/s320/IMG_3521.JPG" width="320" /></a>I have lived in my current cottage since 2007 when my husband and I moved here from Northwest Florida, where we had lived in a 55+ year old cottage on a bayou, a small older cottage with all the quirks, age and mature trees that made it charming and quaint. At our stage of life, we decided that a new cottage, without plumbing and electrical needs, would be ideal. Our new cottage was built in 2005, and has been described as a "Gothic" cottage because of the wrought iron spear shutters, the dark stained wood trim, both inside and out, the unraked mortar, the wooden front door, and the unique hanging lantern style light fixtures, both inside and out. In my opinion new cottages lack charm and history that comes with age. Folks with new cottages have to be patient, to put it mildly, and wait and work to achieve the landscaping (and hardscaping - like stone walkways) that gives an older cottage its sense of place.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">My front door is a favorite feature, because it has a "speak-easy" door within the larger door to open and greet unknown arrivals. I also had a small removable screen built for the speakeasy door, and use it for ventilation. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I think all cottages should have a meaningful personal name, so I have named my cottage "<span style="color: #38761d;">Lakeview Cottage</span>" because Lake LBJ can be seen from the front porch, driveway and front yard. Lake LBJ is a "constant" level lake, one of the chain of six lakes, known as the Highland Lakes in the Texas Hill Country, west of Austin, Texas.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpsnJ_HoGjc268R2M87X23Vanepb8ST8NIxir1tN2PE1iFfz3qlnu-tDpM1ECB9BbXSrMEgwuiwF3wkz7Y8QiUOy8R6S1hgW1Rdcrhxi5OV8eYLNhQKC18BY-h51Dkt_GbwviHwApzoHV/s1600/IMG_3515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpsnJ_HoGjc268R2M87X23Vanepb8ST8NIxir1tN2PE1iFfz3qlnu-tDpM1ECB9BbXSrMEgwuiwF3wkz7Y8QiUOy8R6S1hgW1Rdcrhxi5OV8eYLNhQKC18BY-h51Dkt_GbwviHwApzoHV/s320/IMG_3515.JPG" width="320" /></a>I love lots of greenery around cottages, to create a sense of privacy but this, being a very new cottage, had very little landscaping. To further complicate my desire for appropriate cottage landscaping, this part of Texas is prone to periods of drought, followed by very wet periods. Purple vitex bushes grow well here and quickly have given me some privacy for the front porch. There are also two of the three oak trees we planted, between the vitex and the house. Unfortunately of the 38 various trees and bushes my husband planted our first summer, only a few remain. <br />
<div style="text-align: left;">There is an arched wooden bridge in the front yard which I walk across to the mailbox. Shortly after we moved in, there was water flowing under the bridge. The water runs to the lake at the end of the street during infrequent downpours.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu7S-M3PcNzUez7L7-xeUkgVawihZm89zsUuonPbMwqB0Wlp6rlVdFMe5HxqiR_uTqd4ZhTSze4rQsjwXus6Y0IhedA2-v1CiJ_V3pN3KxqHF8xhKtsCw5qxmaaT8vxGDCeS7shYm_lBND/s1600/IMG_3536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu7S-M3PcNzUez7L7-xeUkgVawihZm89zsUuonPbMwqB0Wlp6rlVdFMe5HxqiR_uTqd4ZhTSze4rQsjwXus6Y0IhedA2-v1CiJ_V3pN3KxqHF8xhKtsCw5qxmaaT8vxGDCeS7shYm_lBND/s320/IMG_3536.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div align="justify" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> The backyard has been a work in progress since we arrived.</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
The gazebo was already there when we arrived, but the Garden Room was added this summer, with surrounding landscaping and hardscaping for privacy in place, but a lot of growing has to be done before privacy can been attained. To help, a lattice privacy screen with metal roof was added behind the swing last month. Sitting in the swing while it is raining is a thrill - hearing the rain fall on the metal roof and feeling cool mist on my skin -a rare treat after our 105 degree weather this summer. My swing brings back memories of sitting in my grandmother's swing under her grape arbor, back in my childhood. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfLdddQ0JXoodsf6jHxzpIh-KXYjt3oBULYhGfoMTLjk4hskV8VvFQzGC-MImwqh9BerGkCLftRVC4dBUvrDCu7BESAGd7BgIQr7XVlDR01posNLKsSiQwDDwY6D0vOiK1Vw_dZvIySEK/s1600/IMG_4425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfLdddQ0JXoodsf6jHxzpIh-KXYjt3oBULYhGfoMTLjk4hskV8VvFQzGC-MImwqh9BerGkCLftRVC4dBUvrDCu7BESAGd7BgIQr7XVlDR01posNLKsSiQwDDwY6D0vOiK1Vw_dZvIySEK/s320/IMG_4425.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">There is much more to share about my own little cottage, but it is time to focus on other cottages, both mine from the past, as well as those older cottages where history and charm abound. Such is hard to achieve in a new "cottage", but doesn't every cottage start out one day as a new cottage? </div>Phebehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00020463988165436304noreply@blogger.com0