create your own sleeping porch...

Imagine the rustling wind singing you to sleep. Now, imagine your indoor plumbing lies only steps away. What's not to love about a sleeping porch? I'd love to have one...

The sounds of nature, such as rainfall and wind, work like white noise, calming the mind. It's easy and inexpensive to transform a typical porch into a nocturnal nest. Purchase a folding cot from a camping supply store, and dress it with comfortable bed linens. Add a side table and a lamp for reading.

Sleeping porches first gained popularity at the turn of the 20th century. Many people believed that fresh air helped sufferers of tuberculosis, a respiratory system illness that was the leading cause of death at that time in our country's history. Health experts then also touted the benefits of fresh air for avoiding other illnesses.

While sleeping in fresh air may not be the medical cure-all people once believed it to be, it's still a great way to unwind, relieve stress, and improve sleep.

be outside this weekend...

Grab a blanket and get going!

Did you know the know that these fully loaded carryalls were once a built in feature in the Rolls - Royce? They are no longer an upper crust affair! So, why not go barefoot and picnic this weekend?

These baskets range in price and are available in service for two and four. Check out Picnic & Beyond, Inc, Picnic Fun and Cath Kidston for some for classic and bargain options.

Also fun... antique lithographed tins.

Made from the late 1930s through the ’50s these tins were originally cookie containers... most are rectangular and boxy with movable wood or metal handles, but you can also find oval, oblong, and octagonal pieces. Designs are as varied as the shapes; the most common patterns include basket and blanket motifs, plaids, and florals.

Looking for something more elaborate (and more collectible)? Tins falso feature seaside scenes, playing children, nursery-rhyme characters, and kitchen utensils.

create your own secret garden...

Need a place to unwind?

Turn your patio, porch, or deck into a comfortable outdoor room with all-weather furnishings, low-maintenance materials, and your favorite garden collectibles.

Great chairs with comfy outdoor pillows are my favorite addition to a country patio or secret retreat. Add bright bunches of flowers to complement this cozy seating area... If you are lacking green space, pot flowers in galvanized pots and pails to bring this cozy look to your patio.

No tree canopy? Think about the alternatives... how about adding an arbor to your area. A wisteria-covered arbor will offer the perfect setting for outdoor dining with a shady backdrop and a bit of whimsy.

A bistro table set is the perfect complement to your Sunday New York Times and the "keep it coming" cup of Illy coffee. Also, a perfect place to put your feet up with some cheese ,wine, and a close group of girlfriends. I can almost hear Carla Brunini...

Another fun accessory to illuminate your secret garden would be a re purposed (candle-powered) chandelier.

Enjoy your secret retreat!