Our Home is a Finalist in a Curb Appeal Contest!
Vote: Cottages & Bungalows Magazine Curb Appeal Contest
A few weeks ago, I saw a post on Cottages & Bungalows Magazine to enter a curb appeal contest. So I snapped a few photos, wrote a quick description, and found out we were a finalist! Of course, I was thrilled to be a finalist, but now I want to win and need your help!
All you need to do is go here and select me, Annie Diamond, to enter your vote. These are the photos that I used to enter the contest. I think you will recognize us as you are scrolling, but just in case, I’m number 22. Thank you so much! It means the world to me that you would consider voting for our cottage!
Curb Appeal with help from Terrain
Beautiful planters with gorgeous seasonal plants and a nice doormat are two things that instantly create curb appeal. If you have a large or a small entryway, a planter, or an arrangement of planters and a fresh new size-appropriate doormat or mats is the best place to start!
I wrote about our new planters from Terrain in this post. Right now, we have Kimberly Ferns, which will last well past summer, at which point I will not be able to resist the temptation to buy mums…even though I know they will only last a month or two at the most. And then pumpkins, and then we are at the holidays! Gosh, I do love creating curb appeal!
Now a few more favorite things from this week!
As you may know, I join Mary Ann and Cindy each week with our favorite finds. A few things I love this week include a candle snuffer from our friend Kelley who owns Blu Canoe on Balboa Island. I have not been to the shop, but the next time I’m in Southern California, I sure hope to visit!
Why a candle snuffer? Kelley finds the best things for her shop, and I loved it as soon as I saw it. A candle snuffer comes in handy when you use large outdoor lanterns on the patio with real candles. They would make great gifts too! For more wonderful home decor items and gifts, follow @blu_canoe_ or visit them on Marine Avenue in Newport Beach, CA.
Outfit of the Week from Eileen Fisher
A few weeks ago, I wrote a post on linen titled: Is it better to splurge or save when buying linen? In fact, I ordered the two-piece outfit from Eileen Fisher that I compared, and I love it! I wear it together and separately, and it will be great for travel, with all the mixing and matching options! Then I took a chance and ordered this midi skirt and shirt. I love it!
Ever since Cindy, Mary Ann, and I did a post on midi and maxi skirts; I’ve been wearing them a lot! There are many ways to dress up or down a midi skirt; having a matching shirt is just one option. Since I’m 5’10,” I find it difficult to find a dress that fits properly, but a two-piece skirt and shirt works like a dress, but it fits! I’m going to order the tapered pant, too, for more options! One of the things I love about the Eileen Fisher brand is that they have 13 sizes in most items. They do have petites since most things do run long.
When wearing the midi skirt and shirt like a dress, I feel I can dress it up a bit and wear it with oxfords or a slide. I could also wear it with Birks or Sambas for a casual look, a T-shirt and maybe the shirt open like a jacket. This will be perfect for travel with so many options.
Still looking for a summer book club pick?
The girls @read_receipts have you covered! Check out their Instagram for more information on these titles and more!
I vote, your curb appeal is beautiful!! Good luck
Annie! You’ve got my vote. Furthermore, your delightful cottage should come out on top.
Hugs for the 4th and winning the contest,
Diney
Diney! I think I repliued via e,ail directlt on my phone, but in case I didn’t…thank you so much! I hope you had a lovely 4th! xx
So many, darling cottages! Happy to vote for you!
Thank you Ginger! That’s so nice of you! I appreciate it so much! xx
You look so stylish in the Eileen Fisher outfit!! So versatile, too. I voted for you.
Thanks for the book recommendations!!!
Annie … I declare your house the winner! What … I can’t do that? Well, I voted and I’m confident you’ll walk away with the prize. Blu Canoe looks like the cutest shop and I love following on Instagram. I hope to visit in person one day soon. Thanks for the summer reading recs … I’m ready to spend my days on a chaise lounge with an ice tea and stack of good reads. Happy 4th of July weekend! xo
Thank you Juliet! That’s so nice! Fingers crossed! xx
Voted! i hope you win 🙂
Question: your planters of herbs look amazing. I also have those planters (bought them at Tractor Supply – horse troughs!). How closely do you plant your young herbs together to get that lush look, or do you grow from seed? My basil and dill are about 6″ apart and look very sparse. Plus they dry out so fast and grow so slowly (I read that basil loves the sun, but the ones that get some shade seem to do better). Any tips at all (fertilizer? soil amendments?) would be so appreciated!
Hi Lori,
I only bought one basil plant from lowes, and it had 4 individual plants in the pot. I seperated them when I planted and they have been doing ok. I try to use them or just cut it back pretty often so that it doesn’t go to seed. It does get a lot of sun. I think basil and most herbs like full sun. I wonder if you are watering too much or not enough, perhaps?
Annie I just voted for you. Hope your home wins. It is gorgeous !!
Claudia! Thank you so much! I really appreciate it!