School is winding down, vacations are scheduled and the days are definitely getting longer. As summer rolls around we begin to spend more time outdoors in our yards and gardens. We have company over more often and many times these get-togethers will occur on the spur of the moment. Here are some tips for easy summer entertaining to make your summer life less stressful. 6 Tips for Easy Summer Entertaining…Read More →
I remember my first vintage basket purchase. It was found at a yard sale over 10 years ago. I’ve always been drawn to baskets, but this was my first vintage find. It’s been a love affair ever since. I’m especially fond of the 50’s and 60’s wicker style baskets. Many vintage baskets have a wooden, hinged lid. Some have pull out inserts, while others have wooden stands for separating layers.Read More →
Now that Spring is here it’s time to refresh our home decor. Time to replace heavier bedding and blankets. It’s time to set up the outdoor cushions. And it’s time to replace the sweater wreath. So let me show you how to make a new spring wreath for your porch or front door. There are so many wonderful spring flowers that you can use to make a new spring wreath. Read More →
There is something wonderful about a treasure hunt. Do you remember going on Easter Egg hunts as a child? Very seldom did we find the golden egg but we always came home with treats. Or do you remember scavenger hunts where you ran from house to house looking for designated treasures? These days I’m on the hunt for vintage collectables. Some of my favorite items to collect are vintage picnicRead More →
Decorating your garden should be more than a chore. Terracotta and outdoor pottery work perfectly fine, but it’s fun to incorporate something unexpected. Using vintage containers in your garden can be just the thing. Over the years, I’ve used a variety of old containers to grow bulbs and flowers. Using vintage containers in your garden is a great way to add some character to your decor. The vintage containers IRead More →
When I started blogging last year, I knew nothing about how to blog. It took me 4 weeks to send my first post because of fear. But I overcame that fear and hit publish. And I have continued to hit publish. Today, I am celebrating 1 year at Pinecone Cottage Retreat! The past year was amazingly full. Here is a list of some of the major things that occurred inRead More →
Even though Spring is officially still a week away, Daylight Savings Time always feels like the start of the new season. It’s staying lighter longer and the days are a “little” warmer. As spring starts to slip in, I begin to think about birds. I’ve been hearing birds outside my window lately. And I am waiting to see the first robin. As I wait it’s a good time to decorateRead More →
Do you find crafting as enjoyable as I do? It’s great to come up with an idea and then work with your hands to create something new! I will usually get craft ideas from looking around on Pinterest or reading magazines. Sometimes I find ideas in home decor and garden books. Certainly, the craft stores like Hobby Lobby and Michaels are a good place to get ideas. Lastly, I oftenRead More →
The holidays are officially over. Have you have put away your tree and ornaments yet? I am a procrastinator about cleaning up because I enjoy the decorations so much. But it’s time to move on. As magical as our homes are during the Christmas season, when winter rolls around it is time for more serene atmosphere. During the winter months I like to keep my decor warm and cozy. IRead More →
Welcome! I have been working on decorating Pinecone Cottage for the holiday season. I am using it as a place to craft Christmas wreaths and ornaments. So it’s been a regular Santa’s Workshop. It is also a wonderful place to stash my gifts. My family does not think to look here to see what I have bought for them. Come on in and see all of the touches I haveRead More →