[ a divine deck ]

NOW THAT outdoor entertaining season has arrived, I find myself missing our Muskoka place more and more, especially when I saw this gorgeous home in Portland, Maine.

the gorgeous wrap-around veranda...

the stunning deck extending out towards the water...

I can already smell the pancakes in this kitchen...

and the porch just welcomes you inside.

The birds chirping, the swish of a canoe paddle... sigh. It's doesn't get any better than that.

lisa

ps: thanks for your sweet words about the fire near my hometown. It appears that any immediate danger has passed with the bit of rain they thankfully received and the ongoing work of the firefighters. It's been an unusually dry spring and any bit of lightning poses a danger. Our 50-year old family summer cottage was also surrounded by a separate fire but it looks like that area has been spared. 

[whitten architects]

[ no words necessary ]

sigh.

lisa

[via zsazsabellagio.blogspot]

[ simply dreamy ]

I COULD easily imagine this as my dream home especially if it backs out onto water!

I've always wanted a driveway like this! It just makes me sigh with happiness.

I want to thank you all for your awesome comments on my capiz chandelier project - you sure know how to make a girl feel good! My blog friends rock! xo

I've decided to kick start my weekend early this week. And I'm going to be visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. I'll be sure to share pics with you on Monday. Whatever you have planned, have a happy weekend!

lisa

[ beachy keen ]

IT'S NO secret that retiring to a beach house someday is always on my mind. What makes the idea so appealing is that beach houses are simple and laid-back, typically not very big, are usually filled with painted furniture and panelled walls, and are all about the view. Like this one...

But until then, we can always plan our summer holidays. Maybe rent a beach cottage again somewhere this year.

What about you? Could you imagine a beach house life someday?

lisa

[house and leisure]