Mother's Day Love

Mother's Day is a special day to celebrate the women who have given us life, love, and guidance. Let's not forget the countless hours, sleepless nights, and selfless sacrifices that our mothers have made for us throughout our lives. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you, Mom, for all that you do. And while no gift can truly express our gratitude, it's the thought and effort that count. So go ahead and splurge on that spa day or fancy dinner, but don't forget to give your mom a hug and tell her how much she means to you. And if all else fails, a handwritten card and a bouquet of flowers never hurt. Happy Mother's Day, Mom! P.S. Please don't ask us to do any yard work on your special day.

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And now for the shopping part….

Sending Mother’s Day love your way…

Party is HERE!!!

Here’s what I envision: You're hosting a dinner party on your spacious deck overlooking the glistening water. The sun is setting, casting a warm glow on your smiling guests as they sip cocktails and enjoy the fresh breeze. Meanwhile, your out-of-town visitors are comfortably settled in the beautiful upstairs guest suite, feeling right at home.

Your kids are nowhere to be found, and that's because they're happily engrossed in a movie in the media room. No more interruptions from little ones while you entertain your guests.

Ahhh! The good life.

This fabulous listing is by Rock Star Agent Amy Sajer and the lovely staging is brought to you by some over-the-top amazing people at Open House Staging.

Tips for a Fab Outdoor Space

Every space outside of your home is worthy of your attention. You will not regret taking some time to carve out a bit of outdoor beauty. Capture those spaces and create! Even if you are overwhelmed with the size of your yard, pick one of the items below and make it happen. Even if you are underwhelmed by the size of your yard, am intimate space can be created. 

1. DINING

This is perfect for a small space for a couple of reasons. It adds a pop of color and style even without any throw pillows, and weathers well. It's also very affordable from Target. Ooh La La, very French!

In the Pacific NW I am a huge fan of metal if it is not under cover. Way less maintenance and worry. Also found at Target.

My all time favorite is a wood farm table but that has to be under cover. I even store mine inside over the winter. They can be high maintenance for sure but warm and welcoming.

2. ENTERTAINING

It helps to have something to set your fabulous appetizers and craft cocktails on. And this bar cart makes a great statement without taking up a ton of space. 

Of course if you have a larger area you can go with a larger bar.

3. CHILL SPACE

And then there is the relaxing area. A welcoming sectional. Once again, this weathers well but here in Seattle I would never leave my cushions out all year-never.

Or go with  2-4 chairs for a smaller space. These chairs read comfort for sure.

4. NAPPING or RELAXING

A hammock or a chaise lounge chair!

5. GARDENING

A large planter works even in a somewhat small space. A trio of planters makes a great statement as well, especially if they are repeated.

It doesn't all need to fall on your "Operation Fab Outdoor Space" to-do list but I can assure you doing just 1 of these ideas will make you want to be outside. I will not overwhelm you with throw pillows, heaters, fire pits and rugs (but I would like to!). We are brimming with design ideas.

Thank you to Target for all of these great products.

City Garden

I am pulling you out of the warehouse and away from our staged homes to take a walk through my garden.  Bring your cup of Jo and follow me...it is so small-it will only takes a minute!

Ever wonder why the fragrance of some flowers seems stronger at night? ** My lilies are now just opening and are incredibly fragrant. We like to bundle up late in the evening to take in the intoxicating scent. This small garden is full of surprises that add to its wonder. The containers of succulents were inspired by the Farm and Frills Junker Market where we found unusual vessels to plant in.  My pear tree yield's only 2-3 pears. I watch their progress daily as if they were my children. I can tell you which plants were shared with me from my Mother's garden, which plants came from friends and which were acquired at the coveted annual NW Flower and Garden Show. I constantly analyze the progress of this small space making mental notes of things I want to change, divide, dig out and remove forever. That's what gardening is all about. 

TIPS:

*When cutting lilies in your garden choose those with buds that are about to open.

*The orange pollen of lilies stain so snip off the stamens in the flower center. (I do this on those I cut to bring inside and any that are near a path or walkway).

FUN FACT

** The fragrance of flowers is enhanced at night in order to attract nocturnal pollinators such as moths and bats. Sometimes when watering in the morning, a flurry of moths will spring from the flowers.

 Okay, now get back to work and thank you for taking a moment to visit!