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Monday, April 27, 2015

always room for improvement . . .


We walked around the Channel Islands Harbor today.


 I took advantage of the beautiful houses and gardens to get ideas for our house


because our son's fiancee is hosting a graduation party for him in our back yard and things need to be spiffed up.


I came up with a long list of projects that I need to complete before the party and I am writing about them on the blog to force me to follow through.


This is the "before" picture of my first project, but I'm not going to tell you what it is.


Two different projects are in this "before" picture - one I have to convince Steve to complete.


I am so embarrassed to show this "before" photo, but it is one of the most important projects - JP's party will be in the garden and I have to tame the jungle.


The front door needs refreshing - 


maybe I will replace the sack of dried flowers with a nautical wreath!


This little rock planter will be removed from the front yard, but I am still working on an idea for what will replace it.


I wonder how difficult it would be to make window boxes?


The old bicycle will be moved and I vow to finish the curtain on the garage door.


Another embarrassing photo is this baker's rack on the side of the house - a new location and well curated shelves are in order.


For the most part, our garden is ready for company, but there is always room for improvement.

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Join me for Tweak It Tuesday at Cozy Little House

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59 comments:

  1. Sunflowers With SmilesApril 27, 2015 at 6:30 PM

    How fun to have a garden graduation party for your son! Window boxes would look great on your windows, I love them! I am having a CanvasPop giveaway on my blog tomorrow, I hope you will stop by! I also like mason jars with tea lights hanging from the trees, looks so cool at night!

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  2. StaceyApril 27, 2015 at 6:36 PM

    Oh girl, your house is so adorable already! I will say though, there's nothing like an event at your house to get your motivation going.

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  3. My Garden DiariesApril 27, 2015 at 6:40 PM

    This is so exciting Carol! I think your garden is the perfect place to host a beautiful party! And I know you see what you see but what I see is a cool, stunning, and creative space! Though knowing you, it will be even more stunning in every area that you showed us! I can't wait to see where your creative juices take all of these little nooks! Happy making my friend!! Nicole xo

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  4. JeannaApril 27, 2015 at 7:04 PM

    I love your place just the way it is...maybe you want more of a change. I think it would be hard to improve on your lovely home.

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  5. Linda @ A La CarteApril 27, 2015 at 7:23 PM

    I agree that if I put it on the blog, I will more then likely get it done. Good for you. A party for your son's graduation is great. Can't wait to see completed projects.

    Linda

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  6. Joy JunktionApril 27, 2015 at 7:26 PM

    I love your garden Carol, but I do know that there are always things that we want to improve upon! I have a list that just doesn't want to end!! And, when I have things I want to complete, I definitely tell people or post to the blog, otherwise, I am a horrible procrastinator!! I really am going to finish the back yard mural wall...promise...by Memorial Day!! Blessings to you for continued healing of your wrist! Cindy xoxox

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  7. bobbieApril 27, 2015 at 8:07 PM

    Well ~ you know me ~ I see nothing that needs improving! And I worry about your wrist.
    But I also know the urge to spruce things up, especially for such an auspicious occasion!
    Be gentle with yourself ~

    Hugs ~

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  8. Patricia @ 9th and DenverApril 27, 2015 at 8:15 PM

    There are things I would love to do both front and back... in the yard, for company.
    Room for improvement indeed.
    Your gardens and porch areas look so inviting. It's hard you know...to be objective when you live there everyday. One thing I've learned is if I want to know how it really looks ...take a picture of it!
    Live you've done here-- now you have a more precise idea. I do that, anyway.
    No matter what you do with it, I'm sure it will look festive, fun and inviting!

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  9. Butterfly 8)(8 Bungalow April 27, 2015 at 8:41 PM

    I think it looks perfect and inviting in all your photos... like a magazine. But you know best...

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  10. Blondie's JournalApril 27, 2015 at 9:33 PM

    You never fail to let me want to move right into your home. And neighborhood. Your life dare I say?!v Everything is so inviting!

    Jane x

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  11. KathyApril 27, 2015 at 9:38 PM

    Carol, your energy is astounding!

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  12. ReneeApril 28, 2015 at 12:13 AM

    Looks great to me :)

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  13. BeachGypsyApril 28, 2015 at 2:30 AM

    Yes! window boxes would be amazing!. And I love the shot of the palm trees!

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  14. FlowerLady LorraineApril 28, 2015 at 2:53 AM

    I 'love' your style. As gardeners/artists, we are never satisfied and there is always room for tweaking.

    I loved the photo with the red flip flops that look like a heart shape in the basket. That was wonderful!

    Looking forward to seeing your changes. Enjoy the process and have a great week ~ FlowerLady

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  15. Castles Crowns and CottagesApril 28, 2015 at 3:23 AM

    There is always room for improvement, but what you have is SO rich in possibilities and ideas, and already steeped in great charm, Carol! WINDOW BOXES.....YEAH!!! GO FOR IT! Not hard at all; my husband has whipped out many and you will have a blast painting them! We believe in window boxes; windows to me are like the eyes of the house. Window boxes truly adorn them and I can see you doing it here.

    You are now reminding me that I need to refresh my garage window curtains too! Oh the fun awaiting me on the weekend!

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  16. UnknownApril 28, 2015 at 3:31 AM

    It's a constant tweeking job...ha! I know you will make it fabulous and still have a great time. Yes, window boxes and a new wreath...excellent!

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  17. Rita C at PanoplyApril 28, 2015 at 4:39 AM

    Funny, but as I looked at what you call your jungle area, I immediately thought, "well, that's one good thing winter does here - most everything goes dormant to the ground, so it gets a fresh start". But, of course, that getting cut to the ground never happens on its own. Hopefully, your projects will all be fun for you. I can see window boxes in your future. ;) Coming to your blog is like going on a mini vacation, any time of the year, and I love it.

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  18. handmade by amaliaApril 28, 2015 at 5:02 AM

    I'll believe you if you say that there are projects to be done, but the garden looks pretty wonderful to me as it is.
    Amalia
    xo

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  19. Celestina MarieApril 28, 2015 at 5:06 AM

    Hi Carol, I always love seeing peeks of your garden and around the outside of your cottage home. Everything has so much character and is so inviting. My hubby just made me a window/flower box for the fence. It's the same, but without the window and I hope to share it soon. You will so enjoy having them and changing out the flowers and decor. Have fun! CM

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  20. Jemma@athomewithjemmaApril 28, 2015 at 5:06 AM

    Love a great party and what a celebration this will be! You know I love your home and how you tend to it and love it so much!
    Happy Tuesday,
    Jemma

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  21. Leslie HarrisApril 28, 2015 at 5:26 AM

    Carol how fun! A grad party in your garden? I can't wait to see what you do. Your home is already brimming with charm anything you do will be icing on the cake. But I hope you try the window boxes so I can learn how to make those. We're getting our patio concrete poured today so we're still focused on the basics :)

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  22. Kim April 28, 2015 at 5:27 AM

    Your garden is lovely and no matter what you do for the party, I know it will be fabulous! :)

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  23. Sherry @ Thrift My HouseApril 28, 2015 at 5:39 AM

    Your home is gorgeous Carol! I wish I had the knack for putting "color" together like you do. You're so talented. I look forward to the updates of you making something that's already pretty even prettier :) Have a wonderful day!

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  24. chateau chicApril 28, 2015 at 6:01 AM

    The outside of your cottage and gardens are so charming, it's hard to imagine they need a lot of improvement. But I love the idea of window boxes and paint is always a great way to freshen up. I know it will look magical by the time you're done with everything, Carol!!
    Mary Alice

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  25. farmhouse-storyApril 28, 2015 at 6:01 AM

    had to smile at "putting it on the blog"--so true! garden parties are the best, carol, have fun!

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  26. LaurieApril 28, 2015 at 6:06 AM

    Oh, the anticipation! I can't wait to see your new ideas and garden spots. And I agree, putting your plans out there, keeps one accountable. Go for it! I know it will be gorgeous!

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  27. Betsy@My Salvaged TreasuresApril 28, 2015 at 6:32 AM

    Your cottage garden always looks good to me. What fun you're going to have tweaking here and there. After you show us the "after" pictures, be careful because I think the magazines will be ringing your doorbell.

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  28. CynthiaApril 28, 2015 at 8:35 AM

    You live in such a beautiful area. I enjoy your garden. Don't do too much

    Cindy

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  29. SusanApril 28, 2015 at 9:42 AM

    Looks like it is shaping up to be a fun year for you. You are becoming party central. Great quote on the door so I hope it doesn't move too far.

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  30. Down by the seaApril 28, 2015 at 11:02 AM

    Your garden looks as it is doesn't need any improvement! I know from past experience however that you will stun us with your changes, can't wait to see all those ideas coming to fruition! Sarah x

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  31. Jeannies BottleApril 28, 2015 at 1:07 PM

    Your house is the cutest ever and looks just great to me, as it is!!

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  32. Jeannies BottleApril 28, 2015 at 1:08 PM

    Your house is the cutest ever and looks just great to me, as it is!!

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  33. ANNEApril 28, 2015 at 2:38 PM

    It's perfect even if you don't get to the things you think need to be done! Relax my friend, it's all gorgeous! xox

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  34. Lowcarb team memberApril 28, 2015 at 3:05 PM

    It all looks good to me. I always enjoy a visit to your blog.
    Thanks ...

    All the best Jan

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  35. Lowcarb team memberApril 28, 2015 at 3:06 PM

    It all looks good to me. I always enjoy a visit to your blog.
    Thanks ...

    All the best Jan

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  36. Nancy's NotesApril 28, 2015 at 3:09 PM

    Your blog is just so colorful and always awesome! What a amazing home, love it and think is't perfect now!

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  37. NanaDianaApril 28, 2015 at 3:56 PM

    I love your home, Carol. Everything is always so bright and colorful. Those are great pictures here today. Blessigns- xo Diana

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  38. podsoApril 28, 2015 at 6:32 PM

    Your house seems perfect already but I'll look forward to seeing what you do!

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  39. Vicky HuntApril 28, 2015 at 7:10 PM

    Your home and gardens always look lovely to me! I am sure when you finish they will be even lovlier though! You just have the golden touch when it comes to decorating anything! Have a wonderful week!

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  40. cathy, 1929 Charmer CottageApril 28, 2015 at 7:21 PM

    I think your home looks lovely...but, I know how we want everything to look it's best for an important event. I'd focus on painting the door and clean up the one area of the garden. I look forward to what you do do!

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  41. Blondie's JournalApril 28, 2015 at 7:27 PM

    So many great things to see, I don't think anyone will notice a little over-growth here or there...still I'm a perfectionist and know how you feel. Sigh. I love the bright colors. The baker's rack looks good to me. I have one that's in terrible shape and I plan to spray paint it tomorrow. The color? Who knows?

    Keep us updated, we are always in love with what you do.

    Jane x

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  42. cynthia lee designsApril 28, 2015 at 8:31 PM

    I love your home...it is always so pretty and cheerful!!
    ~Cindy

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  43. Botanic BleuApril 28, 2015 at 8:32 PM

    Carol,
    Your house and garden look wonderful already, so I can't wait to see what you do differently. Congratulations to your son upon his upcoming graduation. What a sweet girlfriend to host a graduation party for him.

    Judirh

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  44. Botanic BleuApril 28, 2015 at 8:32 PM

    Carol,
    Your house and garden look wonderful already, so I can't wait to see what you do differently. Congratulations to your son upon his upcoming graduation. What a sweet girlfriend to host a graduation party for him.

    Judirh

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  45. DianeApril 29, 2015 at 3:28 AM

    Great inspiration here! I am going to start photographing the projects that need doing. Love your photos - can't wait to see everything finished. Congratulations to your son on his graduation!

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  46. Jessica@CapeofDreamsApril 29, 2015 at 3:50 AM

    This is an ambitious list, but I have faith in you. Of course, even if you didn't do any of it, you're house is cute enough already. You are focusing on things that you see as less than perfect because you have another vision in your mind. Your guests would have no idea about that and be charmed by your adorable home.

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  47. Jen KershnerApril 29, 2015 at 5:27 AM

    You are an ambitious lady! All I see when I look at those pictures is charm, charm, charm!

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  48. Deb @ Frugal Little BungalowApril 29, 2015 at 9:24 AM

    I feel quite comfortable here...quit worrying about weeding and such and please get me some iced tea while I just sit and relax and enjoy the atmosphere :)

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  49. Deb @ Frugal Little BungalowApril 29, 2015 at 9:25 AM

    I feel quite comfortable here...quit worrying about weeding and such and please get me some iced tea while I just sit and relax and enjoy the atmosphere :)

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  50. Magali@TheLittleWhiteHouseApril 29, 2015 at 10:20 AM

    You seem to have so many projects! But take time to enjoy your wonderful garden!

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  51. fiona andersonApril 29, 2015 at 10:45 AM

    It's a good idea to put a list online, it definitely helps to fuel ones energy, knowing it's there for all to see.
    I'm sure you'll achieve everything you want to, though it looks such a charming place to hold a party already.

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  52. AnaApril 29, 2015 at 11:26 AM

    Sounds like you'll have your hands full for a while Ms. Carol. I've always liked your sweet cottage, inside and out. Love the before pictures can only image the afters. Have fun.

    Hugs,
    ❤️Ana

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  53. MicheleApril 29, 2015 at 12:34 PM

    Your home and garden are already wonderful, so it's hard to imagine how splendid it will be fixed up for the party. We want pictures and more pictures, please!

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  54. Row homes and CobblestonesApril 29, 2015 at 6:13 PM

    Hi Carol,
    Sorry I'm late for a visit, kind of been insanely busy lately. Always love a visit to your cottage of color and sand by the sea. Graduation party, outdoors, taming the jungle ... well my friend it will be a night of memories. Window boxes sound like a wonderful idea, I think they would look adorable. Looking forward to your new ideas and your reveal.
    xoxo,
    Vera

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  55. Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. OlsonApril 29, 2015 at 9:44 PM

    No matter what you do it will be fabulous as always Carol! If you ask me, your garden is delightful, but with gals like us; our work is never done! lol! Window boxes would add a sweet touch. Can't wait to see the improvements.
    hugs,
    Jann

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  56. Helen PhilippsApril 30, 2015 at 3:55 AM

    I just love seeing your gorgeous photos, Carol! Even when you want to make changes I still like the ones you are showing!! You have real skill in creating your displays and vignettes. Window boxes would look so pretty!
    Congratulations to your son on his upcoming graduation too.
    Helen xox

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  57. Patty AntleApril 30, 2015 at 7:20 PM

    It's nice to have something to get us moving. Your place already looks wonderful though. How can you make it wonderfuller?

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  58. CatieAnMay 3, 2015 at 11:11 PM

    oh Carol having a party at your place is the best motivation one can have! Been there done that so many times but we both love to have that deadline to push into getting things accomplished that have long been on our to do list. Your place always look beautiful. Can't wait to see what you are planning.

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  59. CarlaMay 11, 2015 at 12:57 PM

    Can't wait to see what changes you make. I love the inspiration photo.
    Window boxes for you....no problem. As creative and talented as you are I'm sure you'll come up with something
    unique and pretty.

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