Charleston Photo: The perfect picnic spot…

On June 15, 2013June 12, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS2 Comments

I have mentioned in past posts a fabulous place called Botany Bay. The light that filters through the trees is incredible. Every inch of that place is stunning. It appears untouched. The beach is beautiful, the entire area looks like you’ve stepped back in time. This is a photo of our lunch spot. We brought a picnic, opened up the back of the car and sat, ate, listened to the birds, the wind in the trees… wow… Let’s not tell too many people about this place, ok? Keep it to yourself! Have a great weekend!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

House Plan Thursday: Block Island Cottage – SL 1059

On June 13, 2013December 9, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn HOME, House Plans, THOUGHTS6 Comments

Block Island Cottage by Coastal Living – SL 1059, 1820 square feet – Image: CoastalLivingHousePlans.com

An Exclusive Design for Coastal Living by Allison Ramsey Architects, Inc.

Yet another house plan that we’ve had on our radar… even if you don’t plan on building a house it sure is fun to look at plans and dream what you would do differently, how you would arrange things, etc.

Things to change… I would paint the lattice underneath the house the same color as the house so it blends in… and unless I had kids or small dogs to contain on the porch I would go without spindles or use wire… I like that look, and that little window upstairs… I would have it open out. I LOVE THAT! The house has a nice porch (a requirement!) and is more than plenty big enough for us with just the downstairs…

This is a sweet plan that allows the master bedroom to be off on a wing by itself, which is nice for guests. I also like the laundry room nearby… right now it’s in our bathroom which is very convenient, but ahhh, the dust! I cannot complain… it could not be more convenient! Fred and I both really like the more open plans. It’s probably because we have a home with rooms… and the grass is always greener so to speak…

The upstairs is a simple loft design with the rest of the room open to the living space below… might be good for painting, or the treadmill… storage of Christmas decorations, etc. Whew, i’m glad I don’t have to be making a decision any time soon! What would you do?

Catch you back here tomorrow!

HB 2 U!

On June 9, 2013June 7, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS5 Comments

We have the coolest nephew/Godson… his name is Max. It’s hard to believe he’s 15 today (and driving around with his permit!)…

You are the best Max… you’ve always been a blast to be around and we love you with all our hearts.

Here’s a younger photo of Max and Fred… love. this. kid!

H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y M A X ! ! ! ! Come visit… S O O N !

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Island Cottage House Plan (SL 358) by Historical Concepts/Our Town Plans for Southern Living!

On May 30, 2013August 6, 2021 By Barbara StroudIn HOME, House Plans, THOUGHTS3 Comments

Island Cottage (SL358)House Plan by Our Town Plans for Southern Living

Unique, isn’t it? Like a home built long ago and added on to in the very best of ways. This is actually three different units – perfect for a family living together while maintaining a sense of privacy and having their own space. I can see something like this becoming more and more popular! You’re alone when you want your space and together when you don’t. #winwin

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On behalf of a grateful nation…

On May 27, 2013May 15, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS3 Comments

I saw this at the waterfront park in Mount Pleasant, SC a few weeks ago and thought it would be fitting for Memorial Day!

Have a great day everyone and I’ll catch you back here tomorrow!

Happy Saturday! A gallery opening and a very special birthday wish!!

On May 25, 2013May 20, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn ART, HOME, THOUGHTS1 Comment

Well today is the day! The day of the opening of the Lupine Gallery on Monhegan Island, here’s an image and a blip from their Facebook page “Lupine Gallery” – oh how I wish we were there visiting!

Here at the Lupine, we’re looking forward to seeing familiar faces and new, so if you’re on island, stop in and say hello and see what exciting new art we have on the walls! And then join us for our annual opening party on Saturday, May 25 from 5-7, to welcome the 2013 season.

I would also like to wish a very special someone… a very Happy Birthday! Bobbie Stroud, Fred’s mom… one of the sweetest people on earth! We wish her the happiest of all birthdays!! xoxo us

Catch you back here tomorrow!

The beauty of history…

On May 19, 2013December 21, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS2 Comments

There is a beautiful Catholic church in downtown Charleston, SC that I truly believe everyone should see. The church is Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, founded in 1821. You can sense the history when you walk through the doors. Here in Charleston, SC we have many churches like this… gorgeous, big and beautiful!

My parents were here a few weeks ago, and we were having lunch downtown and on the way back to the car we walked through the very impressive doors. AMAZING. It’s hard to get a good shot with a phone camera, but here is a glimpse at one of the many windows. The architecture is breathtaking. A wonderful church for sure!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

What kind of footprints are these??

On May 18, 2013May 9, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS1 Comment

Not the best shot here… Fred and I were walking on the beach at Botany Bay (Edisto, SC) and we saw footprints… not dog (not allowed on the beach), I’m guessing deer? Kind of V shaped? As we meandered down the path (not near the beach) two deer flew in front of us… they were on a mission, or maybe they were playing tag, who knows… they looked happy! What a cool place to live, where you know you’re secure and protected!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Wishes for a Happy Mother’s Day… even if you aren’t one!

On May 12, 2013December 13, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS2 Comments

[Image: Villapenna.com]

Wishing all you Mother’s out there a very happy Mother’s Day! You’re the best… I’m sure a lot of sacrifices are made, but its all worth it, right?

I would like to say THANK GOD for my mom, Sheila, and for Fred’s mom, Bobbie. Fred and I couldn’t have hand picked better moms. No chance. None. Zip. Zero. Nada. We love them more than anything… we are very blessed and we know that.

Now for those of you who aren’t yet a mother, or cannot be a mother. I get it. I understand. I know how you feel. Motherhood clearly isn’t in the cards for everyone. I wish it was, but it’s not. So, be positive, move forward, spend time with a niece or nephew, neighborhood kid or volunteering where so many kids need a positive influence in their lives. And… more important… don’t worry if you can’t be positive quite yet. It took me a long time…

…and hey, I’m the best darn dog mom you’ve ever seen… he he…. (Charlie when we first got him in 2009)

Believe me when I say… dog moms make lots of sacrifices too! (Caught in the act! Note empty toilet paper roll… nice Charlie… couldn’t have paper on a roll for two years!)

I swear tile is creamy white… not sure why it appears tan… eeeek.

E N J O Y T H E D A Y ! !

Love you moms!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Tribute to a friend…

On May 5, 2013December 9, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS12 Comments

It is with a heavy heart that we say farewell to a friend… “he has begun his journey“. Pain and anguish are no more which is a relief. His smiling face will be missed. His brilliant conversation will always be remembered. The last time we saw Scott was on Monhegan Island, ME. We met for dinner several nights over the course of the week. We shared conversation that covered most topics we could think of. We talked until they turned out the lights and then continued to talk. Family, interests, hiking, climbing (Scott), cooking, books, movies, other friends… you name it, we covered it. I am sad to know those conversations will never continue, at least not here on earth… but I guess that gives us something to look forward to once we begin our own journey.

Monhegan Island is a beautiful place and holds wonderful memories for us. It seems like some of the friends that we’ve met from there are some of our very best. Despite distance, they’re the ones that we keep in touch with. They have touched our heart. Maybe its the week spent on an island with no outside communication to dull your mind… no TV, no radio, just friends, talking, catching up and learning about each others lives. In a “normal” place you probably wouldn’t sit around that long just talking. But on Monhegan THAT is the entertainment, and for that I am so grateful. Strong relationships are forged in a very short period of time. We truly care about each other, and when one hurts, so does the other. Now, that care extends to his family, who was right there by his side…

I found a North End Market receipt in my “Monhegan” book, Scott had written down the name of a movie he really enjoyed, called MAN ON WIRE. As well as a book, RAZOR’S EDGE by W.S. Maugham. I haven’t gotten around to either, but I think we will make a point to do so. A tribute to our friend…

Scott may be gone from this life, but will never be forgotten – the lives he has touched are forever changed… he has made an impression on so many people’s lives. When you are fortunate enough to run across someone special, take the time to get to know them, keep in touch and never take that time for granted. Life is truly short. Cherish your relationships no matter how deep they are. Go out and touch someones life today, in a positive way. Be thankful. Feel blessed.

Peace and prayers to Scott as well as his family. We look forward to seeing you again my friend!

Below, a photo… entitled “I Wish“… a Monhegan tradition, when you leave the island you toss your bouquet into the water… if it comes towards shore that means you’ll be back…

It’s the little things in life…

On May 4, 2013January 8, 2014 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS, TRAVEL2 Comments

Monhegan Island, Maine is an island rich in history. There are so many beautiful sites to see, the ocean, cliffs, artists painting, birds, flowers, and of course… the butterflies… they seem to be everywhere!

Have a wonderful weekend, get out and enjoy the beauty all around you… notice the little things that make you smile. Be grateful for them… Life on earth is a short blip on the radar screen… savor it…

Prayers of peace go out to our Monhegan friend, Scott and to his family…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

French Quarter Art Walk tonight – Charleston SC… and a very special birthday!

On May 3, 2013December 16, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn ART, THOUGHTS2 Comments

This is a busy day! Lots to do and to let you know about! Today is the French Quarter Art Walk from 5-8 PM, visit the local galleries, view the gorgeous art, take in the sights, and maybe even have a snack or two! The art walk is free and open to the public. It’s a great time for both locals and visitors. Peruse the streets of Charleston, walk from gallery to gallery… you might even see a demo! (Click HERE for a map of participating galleries and their locations)! Here is just a small sampling of what you’re in for tonight…

Vineyard II by Gene Costanza

A reminder that M Gallery of Fine Art has moved to 125 Meeting Street, Charleston – a beautiful gallery with so many fabulous artists! I hear Gene Costanza will be giving a demo on Friday night during the art walk. I certainly wouldn’t want to miss it! What an opportunity! I am so grateful to those galleries who take the time to have artists set up and painting, it truly is a thrill, especially when it’s a high caliber artist like Gene! This May Gene Costanza will be conducting a workshop in Charleston. Contact M Gallery for more information.

Oysters al Fresco a collaboration by Mark Kelvin Horton and Shannon Runquist

Be sure to stop by Horton Hayes Fine Art! Besides all the fabulous art to see, check out this painting that is being auctioned off. A beautiful gallery, nice people, what more can you ask for?

From the Horton Hayes website:

Stop in to see the many new works on display including the official Dining with Friends painting, Oysters al Fresco, a collaborative work by Mark Kelvin Horton and Shannon Runquist. This piece is for sale by silent auction at Horton Hayes Fine Art and proceeds from the sale will benefit Lowcountry Aids Services. The auction will be open for bids through Saturday, May 4th.

I Hear The Music by Robert Lange

Robert Lange’s latest show AFFIRMATION will be hanging at Robert Lange Studios, and oh what a show it will be! Stop in and check it out! What an imagination he’s got!

Passing Cold Front by Betty Anglin Smith

Betty Anglin Smith is also having her show, PRESERVATION, at the Smith Killian Fine Art gallery this evening. Be sure to stop in and say hello!

~ ~ ~

On another note… today is a very special someone’s birthday…

H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y C A R L I S L E ! (Fred’s dad!)

We hope this is your best birthday ever! Love you so much!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Image Credits:

Vineyard II by Gene Costanza – M Gallery of Fine Art

Oysters al Fresco a collaboration by Mark Kelvin Horton and Shannon Runquist – Horton Hayes Fine Art

I Hear The Music by Robert Lange – Robert Lange Studios

Passing Cold Front by Betty Anglin Smith – Smith Killian Fine Art

Charleston Photo… Don’t walk without a camera!

On April 21, 2013December 20, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS1 Comment

Fred and I took a walk on Easter… the weather was gorgeous and so was the scenery, I’m so glad I brought my camera! People take such pride in their homes downtown, and it really shows. I took some fabulous photos of doors and window boxes. Absolutely stunning!

Enjoy your Sunday, it’s supposed to be windy here… I love that! Maybe the wind will get rid of the remaining squiggles in the oak trees, woohoo!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Charleston Photo: Downtown Street and a Trembling Lip…

On April 20, 2013December 9, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS2 Comments

I think that the location of this photo could easily be in another country. This is a street in Charleston, SC. Those trees are stunners aren’t they?? If you get a chance, come to Charleston, SC for vacation… if you live here, take the time to go downtown and walk around and see all the cool sights there are to see! You will be amazed. Trust me!

It’s with a trembling lip that I say ‘see ya soon‘ (can’t say goodbye or that trembling lip will turn into a disastrous mess, ha ha) to my parents who have been in town visiting this week. I moved to SC from MI in 1989, right before Hurricane Hugo (brilliant, eh?) with every intention of being here just a short time… then I met Fred. Awwww… the love of my life. It’s hard to live in a different city that is either an expensive flight or a 17 hour drive away… wish we were all closer in distance!

I’ll be back to normal posting next week! Catch you back here tomorrow!

A Carriage Ride in the #1 Tourist Destination in the World… Charleston, SC!

On April 18, 2013December 21, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS1 Comment

Charleston, SC. What a fabulous city to visit! Most seasons have fabulous weather… there is so much to do and see it will boggle your mind. Food. Boy do we ever have the food, as well as the #1 Restaurant in America! History, culture and the arts… we are heaven on earth for those of you out there who adore art, dance, theatre, concerts, etc. We are people who get out and move. It’s no wonder that Charleston, SC was selected as the #1 TOURIST DESTINATION IN THE WORLD! The. World. Yep, you got it. People from all across the world visit Charleston and love it. This is the second year that Charleston has been voted the #1 tourist destination in the country. Last year we were number 3 in the W O R L D ! Now… Numero Uno folks!

Read more about this in a past post of mine…

A cool website to check out is Charleston Area Convention and Visitor Bureau – when you get to their site you’ll see different videos of Charleston that you can choose from, and they are magnificent!!

Remember, I’ll be back to normal posting next week with HOUSE PLAN THURSDAY… Enjoy your day and I’ll catch you back here tomorrow!