Thursday, March 3, 2011

SUN THERAPY

I'm sunburned. I have that rosy glow. No, I haven't taken off to the tropics, although I wish I had. I had Sun Therapy, my doctor's recommendation for a chronic rash I have. Off to the tanning salon for 8 minutes of sunlight and I came out looking positively peachy. Since I haven't seen the hot sun in months, the first time is always a little brutal. I sort of like looking like I just came back from the Bahamas. It lifts my spirits and makes me forget it is 28 degrees outside.
A little retail therapy helps, too. I had so many things come by way of UPS this week that the boxes piled up at the curb make it look like we just moved in. I found some great things for the backyard and garden, here and at the lake, I'll have to save those things to show you. I found some new websites and Etsy shops thanks to some fellow blogger/shoppers and I have been having a ball.
And I have had my first few experiences bidding on ebay, which is a thrill of it's own. My biggest acquisition was a Kate Spade purse at $50.00 off the original price. I LOVE Kate Spade. Her name could be on a shoe horn and I would buy it. My signature wedding gift is always a Kate Spade vase. I also won some silver candlesticks and a candle lantern. Fun, fun, fun.
It was time to redecorate the mantel, put a little spring into it. A sweet blogger mentioned that I should add a little greenery, so that I did. Emily did most of the work here, my only words were, "Layer and elevate". She did a great job, as always.
This is a table runner with script that I found on a shopping website. I love it on my old cabinet.

Last night I was perusing the new Wisteria catalog and I noticed something that shocked me. I make a habit of ordering from their clearance section online and I noticed that some of the vignettes included items I had bought there. They weren't being offered for sale, just added to the pictures. Now that's recycling in the retail world. By the way, last time I was there they were having an 80% off clearance sale. Ooh la la.
Now, moving on past all my shopping excitement as of late, The Husband and I have been pushing ideas around for a short trip. With son Kevin's wedding just 5 months away, it doesn't look like a prime time to head off to England or Bora Bora. I suggested we go back to Martha's Vineyard as we loved it so much when we went a few years back. But he wants to go some place new so we have agreed on Asheville, N.C. in May. I don't know much about Asheville; The Husband keeps calling it the Paris of the South. Does anyone have any experience there? We will more than likely stay at a B&B, check out the sights, do a few tours {they have vineyard tours with wine tasting, who would have thought in North Carolina?}. And of course there is always the shopping. So let me have your input if you will...it sounds like a sure thing.
Off we go to the lake again this weekend, only this time we are going to work on projects to keep us busy. The Husband is going to spend time on the kitchen to get that completed and I am going to paint some furniture. Thankfully, the garage is heated. Hopefully we will have more to keep us busy while we await the warmer weather. What do you have planned for the weekend? I hope the sun stays out. Have a great one! :-)

65 comments:

Julie Marie said...

Hi Jane, love all your new finds!... if you are like me, you will become an Ebay expert!... it's sort of like gambling I guess, waiting to see if you win the bid!... I try to find the "Buy It Nows" most of the time, but there are just so many great things to buy there!... your mantel looks beautiful!... I love that bird on top of the books... I think Martha's Vineyard sounds so inviting, I would love to visit there, but I am sure wherever you go you will have a ball... xoxo Julie Marie

April said...

My goodness, Janie...what great things you've added to your home! I've never had much success on EBAY. Everything looks so pretty! I went to Asheville with my mom a good number of years ago and we toured the Biltmore Mansion and Estates...it's a must see! The outdoor gardens are something like you've never seen before. You will love the area...lots of beautiful mountains and crisp, clean air!

Pondside said...

Pretty photos, Jane. I hope you enjoy planning your getaway. I'll be interested in what everyone has to say about your chosen destination.

Kathy@ Gone North said...

LOVE those little topiaries. And your mantle is beautiful... now show us your purse... I am a purse girl, & Kate is one of my favs...
We are going to the up north place also this weekend... weather is not looking too promising here in Mi. BUT sounds like you have indoor "activities" planned... :)
Have a fun weekend!!

Linda @ A La Carte said...

Love the Spring look of your mantel! I've not been to Asheville, NC but have heard it is quite lovely.

NanaDiana said...

I have not been in a tanning booth for several years...but OH..that feeling...especially for us sun lovers. I used it for the achiness that accompanies some slight problems I have...wonderful, wonderful therapy. You did good on your "shopping sprees"...lol And I LOVE your mantle. Hugs- Diana

LuLu Kellogg said...

You found lots of eye candy!!

You will love NC...that where I am from and that is where I am moving back to as soon as our house sells. I will be living on the coast and can't wait to get back to the beach. If you are going to Asheville, make sure to go to the Biltmore House. It's BEAUTIFUL!

Love,
LuLu~*xoxo

Mary said...

Looks like you're a busy gal this week Jane - love your finds! Sorry about the rash, hope it's clearing up now and that the sun treatment won't be necessary again - you know the downside to tanning!!!!

Dear, you are really coming to beautiful Asheville - what good news. I would LOVE to meet up with you there but as I'm going to be in England in May so it perhaps won't work, which will be very disappointing!

e-mail with dates and if you'd like some info. on the city and area - where to go, shops (great ones) etc.

Hugs - Mary

Maggie said...

I always enjoy seeing the results of your retail therapy sessions, love the topiaries.
Like April, I have been to the Biltmore Mansion in Asheville and agree it is a must see.
I hope that you and Mary do manage to hook up in May, she would be the perfect person to show you around.

vintch said...

Asheville! That's in NC! I am in NC! I love, love, love Asheville, and I'm certain you will too. It is the most adorable place. There are two sides to the city, both equally wonderful. There is the beautiful, upscale side, which boasts the grand wonderous, Biltmore House (a tour is a MUST). Then, there's the artsy, coffee-shop side of town, near UNC-Asheville. There, you'll find fun, quirky spots like a double decker bus turned into a coffee shop. It's seriously amazing. There is also a live music venue called the Orange Peel that hosts some great names. My husband's family has a mountain house nearby. If you need any more suggestions, feel free to send me an e-mail at vintchdesigns@gmail.com:)

Linda said...

Looks like you are making the best of winter's last weeks! Hope your weekend goes as well as your week! I am off to Galveston Island tomorrow with both my daughters! Summer and I are driving down to Katy as soon as LD gets back form his stress test. First time EVER for me to spend a weekend just with my girls!! (At least since Amber has grown up!) SO looking forward to it!
PS.....I love ebay!

Designs on 47th Street said...

Wow Jane...you are finding great ways to get through the winter! I love all your new finds. I really should explore etsy more. In fact...I keep thinking I should open up my own etsy shop with some of the things I sell locally.

Anxious to hear more about your trip!
Donna

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

I used to do my own Winter therapy at the tanning salon, Jane. When Winter was just getting to be too much, I'd go for about 10 minutes every so often just to get something out of it. Haven't been in years, but you reminded me of that. I have not checked out Wisteria, but will have to with an 80% off clearance section! Enjoy the lake visit.

The Fajdich Times said...

I love all your new finds. The tanning booth is the best.....just makes you feel so good afterwards! My sister lives in Cary, North Carolina. It is so fun to visit.....lots to do. I am sure you will enjoy your trip to Asheville. Can't wait to see your posts about it:)

Anonymous said...

I'm the opposite...if I get into a suntan bed...I get a rash...a miserable one...so it's pasty white for me!
I enjoyed seeing all of your vignettes!

Anonymous said...

Beautiful post, Jane. Reminds me I need to get out my bunny topiaries from last year.

Gorgeous Spring mantel.

Anonymous said...

Hi Janie!

Good to get a little color. That first time is brutal...I hear ya! I don't go tanning but before we head someplace warm, I'll go a few times so I don't fry.
You have found some really cute things on Etsy. I love the script runner and how your mantel is layered. Very sweet!
Hope you have a nice weekend away. Curious to see the furniture you paint. I've never been to Asheville but I've heard all good things about it. I'd love to see the Biltmore. Sounds like a place to visit, for sure.
Enjoy the day!
xx
~Michelle

oldgreymare said...

My folks adored Asheville,my brother swears by Hatteras ( for the fishing) and my folks had a vacation home for a short while in Hendersonville. i don't think you can go wrong in those parts : D

xx
z

Valerie@chateaualamode.typepad.com said...

i love retail therapy especially via UPS. How fun for you and thanks for sharing it all. I love that pretty runner with writing on it. So fun.

Debbiedoos said...

Your new goods are fantastic Jane..I love that you had your first ebay experience...look out girl! It won't be the last.

Kathleen said...

Pretty new things, Jane.
Sun therapy would be nice, real sun! I know my friend who had Pitariasis had to get sun.

A trip sounds nice, good to get away. I would love to!

Helen said...

I think it's neat that you have a 'signature wedding gift' ... lucky recipients!!!

Please be careful with the tanning booth (yes, I know your MD ordered it)..

Advice from the Queen of Skin Cancers!

Lynn said...

Cute topiaries Jane! Have fun at the lake this weekend, I'll be doing a little yard work. I've never heard of the Paris of the south, look forward to hearing about your trip:@)

June said...

Jane your vignettes are so pretty. Your little helper, Emily, has such a knack for decorating!!! I'm thinking you have inspired me to go and do a little retail therapy today myself, maybe Etsy, maybe Wisteria, hmmmm, sounds like fun to me!
I don't know anything about NC, but I bet it will be great, where ever you decide to go. I don't travel much, but I know it would be great to see more of the states.And then of course, I want to go to England someday. It's really the only place out of the states I've ever wanted to go.
Have a wonderful time at the lake this weekend Jane!
hugs to you...

Rebecca Nelson said...

Love your finds sweet girl! Sometimes I miss ebay soo much...not enough to return to selling there all the time though!

Hope you rash goes away. It was 78 one day here in Oklahoma this week. I was in heaven. LOVE IT!

xoRebecca

The Single Nester said...

I do love that Anna Quindlen book. That's awesome about your Kate Spade purse. There is an outlet near me and they have amazing prices.

Hanlie Joubert said...

oh wow, you found some beautiful things. will you start shopping for me :o)
have a wonderful day

Olive said...

Jane, you will love Ashville. Someone has already mentioned the Biltmore, please dedicate an entire day for it as it is lovlely and huge. The mountains are so peaceful and beautiful. Last time I was in that city I saw many great small antique stores and gift shops as well. ♥O

White Ironstone Cottage said...

wow I have no words
You are amazing
xo
Pam

La said...

Hi Jane!

I've never been to Asheville, but I think it is a popular destination. Isn't that where the Biltmore is?

This weekend we have some workers coming in to fix some water damage we have from a leaking roof. They replaced the roof a couple of weeks ago and now it is time for the indoor repairs. I dread the dust.

Have a fabulous weekend at the Lake House. La

Theresa said...

Oh Girl, nothing makes you feel better than a little Sun on your BUN:) Can't wait to do the same! Sounds like you have been keeping busy and getting some shopping done too!

Have a blessed evening, HUGS!

myletterstoemily said...

you have such a knack for finding the
loveliest items and the best deals!

how much fun is it working on a
second home? we could tinker all
day in the mountains and enjoy every
working moment!

GLENDA CHILDERS said...

Your house looks lovely, Jane.

I am intruigued by all your stacks of books, as I can't quite see all the titles. They look fun.

fondly,
Glenda

Decor To Adore said...

I am not sure what I love more, the tray, the runner or those darling topiaries!

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Hey there Jane,
I think a little retail and tanning booth therapy sounds just awesome!
And I love e-bay, it can get pretty addictive!
Hugs and Happy Weekend too,
cindy

Lori said...

Sounds like you have been having a ball. I have been trying to stay away from shopping ~ I am on a cleanse ~ lol. Have a wonderful week-end at the lake Janie. xo

Ashley said...

Oh Jane, I love all your finds. I love using birds in my decor. Where did you find those adorable bird topiaries? I went to the Biltmore mansion when I was a child. I remember it being very pretty.

Sue said...

We are going to Asheville in April! We've driven through, but never spent time there. It is gorgeous. We are going to tour Biltmore House and the gardens. I found a book "Finding Your Way in Asheville" 2011/2012 that just came. It is supposed to have all the mom and pop type places listed. We aren't B & B people, so we are at a hotel...but some of the B & B's look wonderful.

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Hi Jane,
I love Kate Spade too. Every year for the past three years my sister has sent me a Kate Spade purse for Christmas. I'm glad that you won one on ebay.

Your mantel looks very spring and I love it.

Have fun on your trip.

hugs
Sissie

Donna said...

All yur new tings are pretty...nothing better than something that fits the right spot and books...oh, and Kate Spade!!
Have fun painting and re-doing this weekend at the lake. Hope you have good weather...making a space in your home pretty is tops on my list too!!
Hope the rash gets better!

Shirley said...

Hi Jane, I enjoyed your post tonight and loved the new finds. I hope you take pictures of your trip to NC. It sounds like a very fun trip and if it is warm that is main thing, Right. Have a great time. Your Missouri Friend.

FrenchGardenHouse said...

Jane, retail therapy is so fun! I hope you have fun planning your trip. please stop by and enter our GIVEAWAY, too. xo Lidy

Heaven's Walk said...

Hi Jane! Sounds like you had a perfect week! Vitamin D therapy AND shopping! lol! I've been getting ready for our FL trip by going to the tanner, and that 20 min nap I get is heaven on earth. :) Isn't eBay exciting? When it gets down to the last few seconds, was your heart pounding out of your chest??? lol! I have to ask where you got that sweet bird with the spread wings sitting on top of the books? I just love it!! Have a wonderfully creative weekend at the lake, friend!

xoxo laurie

Dreaming of Vintage said...

Hi Jane! I'm in need of some retail therapy too, so I think I'm going to head over to Morris, IL this weekend. They have some great shops! It's just what the Dr. ordered! ;) I love those topiaries, they are so cute!
Kelly

Tracy said...

Hi Jane! I love your little topiary animals and your birds, very spring-y. I have a chronic skin issue too, but mine seems to get worse in the sunlight - I hope yours improves for you. A trip sounds wonderful right now, but I'm settling for a 4-day weekend at home. Have a great weekend!

Scribbler said...

You will love Asheville. I would retire there if I could pry my husband out of Alabama. We have spent quite a few of our trips at The Grove Park Inn -- it's great. The Biltmore is a must-see, and the gardens are fantastic in the Spring. The last time we saw it at Christmastime. There are number of B&B's in the Historic Montfort District. There are really neat shops and restaurants. The person you should ask is Penny at Comforts of Home -- she lives there.

Savannah Granny said...

Hi Jane, I have never visited before, I don't think. I have browsed your blog and I love it and your attitude about life.
Just a suggestion, If you are looking for a place to visit. Come to Savannah. In a couple of weeks it will beautiful in the city and rocking with the St Patrick's celebration. LOL.
I enjoyed my visit to Blondie's Journal. I am your newest follower. Ginger:)

Nancy's Notes said...

Oh Jane, what unique and impressive finds, lucky you! Oh and Asheville is just a marvelous place to visit, the Biltmore, a must see!!

Unknown said...

All of your treasures are wonderful, and I love the French script table runner, but then again I am obsessed with French Script.

Your trip sounds wonderful, my sister lives in North Carolina.

Karen

Gypsy Heart said...

Great treasures! I'm not an Ebay sort of girl...I need lessons. :-) I think you will have a blast in Asheville ~ so much beauty, great food, and incredible places to shop too! You MUST go to the Biltmore...it is an absolute must.

I've been thinking of going to tan for a couple of times, however, it's getting warm enough here to sit outside soon. The weekend is bringing a bit of rain and cooler weather but thank God it won't last! I have to be careful though...certainly not ready for the 100+ stuff.

Enjoy your weekend!
xoxo
Pat

Shellbelle said...

"Layer and elevate," great advice! I used to set my party/buffet table that way, using those big styrofoam inserts from boxes under my tablecloth. Everyone was always so impressed. Heavy platters kept them in place.

Don't you just love getting packages in the mail? It reminds me of Christmas morning every time.

As for Asheville, though I've never been, my niece has gone several times. Besides the wineries, they are knows as Beer City, USA. They have nine breweries and there is a tour called the Brews Cruise. She also said they have great hot chocolate! Hot or cold weather, you're covered, lol.

Hugs

hilary@oldhousetruelove said...

those are the cutest topiaries EVER!!!!

Deanna said...

You should definitely try Asheville but I'll tell you that Asheville in May can be hot, humid and rainy but your won't remember any of that once you are back home...lol! The Biltmore Estate is a must!

Wisteria you say? I always have to hid that tab when Marshall passes by as he pretty much knows how I feel about that website!

Deanna :D

bj said...

I love all your treasures. Can't wait to shop that site you mentioned. Never heard of it but, then, I don't get out much. :)))

Oh, I wouldn't change that beauty you have as a header for anything. If you get tired and want to change, you will always be able to go back to this one (if you be SURE and SAVE it before going for a new).
I love it and it's sooo classy.
Hope your weekend at the lake is wonderful.
xo bj

xinex said...

Your vignettes look really good, Janie. I like your new things too. Where did you get the topiaries? I love them! Have fun on your vacation! I have been to NC for Tina's gymnastics competition when she was younger but can't remember which city. But wherever you go, I know you will have lots of fun....Christine

Teresa said...

Hi Sweet Janie!
I would LOVE to have that sun~kissed "glowy" look right now!
I need a little SUN~therapy!
Happy Weekend!
Hugs to you!
xoxoxo

Confessions of a Plate Addict said...

Hi Jane! What wonderful goodies! I love those cute topiaries! About Asheville...you will LOVE it! I actually grew up near there. The mountains are gorgeous and the town is wonderful...with a sort of artsy, bohemian vibe right next to the Biltmore Estate. As everyone has said, you must see that. Here's a great B&B where I stayed when I met some fellow bloggers:
http://www.blackwalnut.com/
I stayed in Sandra Bullock's room! lol It was so pretty and decorated perfctly! You won't be sorry! Happy weekend!...hugs...Debbie

Confessions of a Plate Addict said...

PS...That B&B is in the Montfort district that Ellen at Scribbler mentioned.

Karena said...

Jane what a wonderful post. I will really look forward to hearingg of the Etsy shops you have found and love!

I have not tried Ebay yet....

Do come and enter my Artful Offering!

xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena

Evi said...

My, my Jane, you have been a very busy girl! I love all your vignettes, and the bird on the books is perfect.
I have stayed away from Ebay and Etsy, but I think I will do a little shopping therapy there.
After this bad winter, we girls from northern climates are ENTITLED!!! (You girls in the south too)
We have been to Ashville and it was very nice...good antiquing too, and of course the Biltmore is just fabulous!
We saw it around Christmas and even than the grounds were beautiful. Eat at the old stables at the Biltmore...the food was great.Whatever you do, have fun.
Hugs, Evi

Hearts Turned said...

Glad you're enjoying your rosy glow, Jane...but sorry about the rash--that's no fun!

LOVE all your retail therapy finds--fabulous! And I, too, love eBay...darn it! Have found some wonderful vintage things I love there lately...gotta stop!

Hope the rest of your weekend is wonderful!

Julie

raggygirlvintage said...

Frayed it is, thanks for your input! It is so fun reading about your other life at the cottage, you are very fortunate and I hope you have fun getting it ready for the summer:-)
Tracey

Elaine said...

I am reading this post a little late so it's too bad I didn't get to sway you to go to Martha's Vineyard again.

I can see your husband's point of
view though, it's always fun to go someplace new.

Elaine said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
awal.ny said...

Those topiaries are cute but my favorite is the runner with the writing on it. I have seen fabric that I wouldn't mind making one from. I hope you are having a wonderful weekend. Alaina