Welcome to the weekend view.
It has been a bit of a quiet week over here this week. Chipping away at a couple projects & also enjoying a bit of down time and social distance visits with family that was in town.
Social Distance Getaway
Last week, we drove up into the mountains and took a side dirt road to a lake that was tucked away from civilization a bit. It was supposed to be a day trip & picnic lunch- but that drive to the lake
took 3x as long as we planned with the 4wd needed to get in. And back out. It turned into an all day and into the evening affair before we were wrapped up- but it was absolutely beautiful and so peaceful and a much needed getaway for a bit.
Creative energy
I will admit… I have been feeling a bit zapped creativity wise recently. Much like all of you I am sure. So I started up something that always helps get me out those ‘valleys’-
I got up early and went out for a run several times last week. The crisp air and solitude was so good. And I totally felt this share from my friend Julie- and I am off to delve into a creative project this afternoon.
Just because
A couple of sweet baby goats – and one is a wee girl who absolutely loves to be held constantly. I am pretty sure they don’t think they are goats. Maybe all goats are this way?
Anyway, we are enjoying their shenanigans- and you can’t help but smile when you see that sweet face.
Birthday & behind the scenes
This week- my twin nieces Elodie & Willa celebrated turning 7. If you have been reading my blog for awhile – you might remember when these girls were born. They were super early- what they refer to as micro-preemies. Born just a few days after the doctors considered them viable at just 1 lb each. Here is a photo of how tiny they were when they went home after spending almost 4 months in the NICU.
And a recent photo of how grown up they are.
This table setting that is in my book Inspired Gatherings is a favorite because it was at my brothers home in Calistoga. The girls got home from school and we all put on our favorite cowboy boots and they helped me set up for the photos. It was such a fun evening.
I will share more of the behind the scenes of this soon- and if you saw my ‘Behind the Book’ video you can see a few scenes where I was showing Will how the camera works and Elodie taking her very own photos as well.
Wild Hair Changes
You know what I am talking about…those wild hair changes that come out of nowhere. One minute you are rearranging furniture- the next you are measuring for wallpaper or a taking a wall out. It wasn’t a planned re-do- it is a wild hair one. And sometimes- those are the best!
I have a couple of those almost ready to share right now. One of which kind of surprises me… the other involves that French mural canvas that I have had in the dining room and a big change. I am excited to share what I have done with it now.
Christmas in July
Christmas in July continues right here on the blog tomorrow! Stay tuned for another New book Celebration Giveaway with my Balsam Hill family- it is ALL about entertaining this summer- even at home.
You won’t want to miss it. So come back by and see a few tips on creating an inspired setting in your yard – and a giveaway to help you host your next socially distanced get-together.
I am also revealing the 1st look at the rooms we refreshed in the cottage. I am working on one as we speak today (I might be covered in a bit of paint) but the others are pretty much wrapped up and ready to share. 🙂 And I will show how just one change can make a room look completely different along with it.
Happy weekend all!
MaryLisa says
Beautiful girls! Its so true that when im involved with creating i am so energized compared to days when i get nothing accomplished.
Miche Ortega says
What a beautiful, relaxing post. Thank you Courtney. Your nieces are adorable, and I love that goat.
Janet D says
I understand about Wild Hair Changes! After a few weeks watching all the news about covid, I started painting a lot of furniture from black to white. i must have needed to brighten things up in my life. New rugs too! Thanks for always sharing your INSPIRATIONS!
Courtney says
Yes!! Crazy times!
Kathryn Besarany says
What a wonderful blessing your family has been bestowed upon. Seven year old twins. happy birthday. they are beautiful. Kathryn
Dena Jackson says
Thank for your post. I understand THE zapped creative energy feeling. I feel a double whammy of TRYing to find my mojo having moved OUT of CA 2 months ago (to the midwest) plus the pandemic closures. Even with CA extreme shut down we plan to move back…there’s just something about CA! Much love!
Barbara at Mantel and Table says
YES to everything! the girls are darling – and goats too – and your Christmas photo is gorgeous! I always love it here! 🙂
Melisa says
So blessed the micr preemies made it and look so healthy today! My daughter also had micro preemies, but sad only one made it and I now have a sweet little one in heaven. Never know what God has in store, but seeing your & our micrO preemies doing so well today And knowing what a true miracle we witnessed is amazing.
Jody Baggerly says
Love the reminder courtney! I am slowly getting out of my “funk”, not watching news etc and enjoying the simple pleasures of being alive, doing and enjoying life. Love the pictures of your NIECES, I can relate, 67 years ago I was 2lb 5 oz.
Thank you again for your lovely posts, they are one of the highlights of my days.