Sea Cottage

In the Kitchen

2012-02-15T11:57:00.000-08:00

The whirling wind keeps me indoors. Winter has returned. Homemade chocolate chip scones just came out of the oven. Delicious with tea for brunch with my son. Jeremiah stays home from school. Bella and Lily like to have 'the boy' around. So do I.

I pulled out the old breadmaker and gave her a good washing. Now she hums with the making of french bread. I have yet to throw some produce in a pot of organic chicken broth and let simmer on the stovetop, to serve with fresh homemade bread in a few hours. It's one of those kind of days...where I find myself in the kitchen, doing what I love best.

happy mid-week.

*photo~ bhg.

delicate

2012-02-14T07:35:00.000-08:00

*photo~ source unknown.

tiny flowers

2012-02-13T13:41:00.000-08:00

new flower placecard sets in my etsy shop~ Seawashed

blue flower

faded rose, french lavender, blue flower

These placecards come in sets of 8 for $3.00 and can be used for your spring luncheons, tea parties, weddings, showers or as gift tags, decorating, memory boards, etc. Tiny flowers to scatter around your cottage for the coming spring.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ R.A Shabby Chic, Seawashed.

You give beauty

2012-02-12T10:28:00.001-08:00

I find so much beauty in your little place. Everywhere I go in the blogworld I find beauty.

If I am having a terrible day, I can turn on my laptop and drift away into a corner of loveliness. Soon my troubles fade away.

thank you.

You generously give
and fill our lives
with loveliness.

Faded and torn
beauty adorn

Your beauty means something to me.
This is for all of YOU lovely ladies whom blog. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Seaside Cove

2012-02-09T23:09:00.000-08:00

"In the secret places of the cliff..." Song 2:14

Cobalt blue~ the deep sea...

I am being drawn to Cobalt Blue and began adding touches of it to my cottage and wardrobe. It makes me think of the deep waters of the ocean...the deep sea.

I also am using cobalt blue in my paintings

I will wear this paisley scarf I bought at Target alot this summer on the coast

beachy blues

still have to have my favorite aqua sea blues

hearts for valentine's

deep blue ocean photography found on etsy

a seaside place of rest

The weather is warm here. We will be outdoors all weekend...I will ride 'emma' my beach cruiser!
and my toes are painted blue again. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ tumblr, pinterest,country living, elle decor, house beautiful, southern living, etsy.

Faded Rose

2012-02-09T13:04:00.009-08:00

New tags and notecards in my etsy shop~ Seawashed

These were printed from an original watercolor painting 'Faded Rose'...the print also available at Seawashed. They can be used as gift tags, gift cards, placecards or whatever you fancy. Perfect for spring/summer garden parties, weddings, showers, luncheons, etc.

and a faded rose business card to go with your purchase

Seahorse tags and notecards are also new at Seawashed...

To see more visit Seawashed Studio

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

faded rose tag set of 8~ $3.00
faded rose notecards set of 6~ $10.00
seahorse tags set of 3~ $3.00
seahorse notecards set of 6~ $10.00

An Artist's Sea Blue Sanctuary

2012-02-07T20:30:00.000-08:00

"Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures." Henry Ward Beecher

I just adore this bedroom. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photo~ pinterest.

Simple Romance

2012-02-07T10:01:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone for your comments on yesterdays post. Your words are peace like a river flowing into my ocean heart.

A simple post this morning to share my romantic touches in the cottage for February. I removed the chippy clock that was above our bed and hung this old vintage print that once belonged to my Great Grandmother given to me by my Mother. She has fond memories of laying in her Grandmother's guest bedroom as a little girl looking up at the print and daydreaming that she was the girl in the painting.

pale pink roses from the garden at bedside

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

I miss the sweet simple days...

2012-02-06T11:55:00.000-08:00

I miss the sweet simple days of blogging. When it felt like I was sitting with you on our front porch on a hot summer day sipping ice cold lemonade. Refreshing. Those days seem long gone. Do you remember those days? If you've been blogging for four or more years you probably do. Do you miss them as much as I do?

In five short years the landscape of the blogging community has changed so much. I'm not quite sure why, but I do think money has something to do with it. It has discouraged me. I was beginning to feel lost. Taking the month of January to reflect helped me to find my way back to a place of purpose. It also gave me the time to see how much time I was spending blogging, and that I needed to return to my priorities of prayer, homekeeping, caring for my family ,mothering my children, gardening, exercising, and painting. Blogging needs to come after all of those.

As I continue blogging I want to continue to 'give beauty' flowing from my real life here at Sea Cottage. I live a simple life...I cook, clean, launder, garden, cook, clean, pray, exercise, organize, cook, clean. It seems I'm always cooking and cleaning! With a husband, three young adult children, one teen, a dog, a cat and their friends, our cottage is always full. And everyone needs to be fed. I cook mostly organic, wholesome, from scratch, healthy meals and snacks which all take alot of time. Everyone is on the go so I do all the cleaning. They do help cook, but not clean. I also garden year round. Our winter garden was small this year, but I have plans for a big summer garden. Tending a garden takes time too.

So I won't be blogging as often. But I will continue to blog with the purpose of giving freely beauty that flows from my simple daily life. I hope it brings a bit of calm to your day, as well as mine. You can definetly count on my 'Seaside Cove' weekend post to provide a retreat from the cares and demands of the world.

And now for a few questions~
*What is Google +? Are we all going to have to change to it?
*I have not changed to the new blogger interface. Will I have to?
*When we lose Google friend connect will it just disappear from our blogs?
*Should I be jotting down all your blog addresses now?

It is difficult to keep up with the constant internet changes...blog,facebook,etsy,twitter,etc. I don't have all of those things but it takes time to understand, learn, and apply. Just when I feel like I understand enough to enjoy them, they go and change things. It's enough to make me want to stop(and pull my hair out!).

I live a simple life...I'm continually seeking simplier ways. but it seems to keep getting more complicated. I don't want to lose the friendships and community I have with blogging. I am so thankful to know each of you. I miss the sweet simple days...

and I know some of you do too. Heather of Simple Daisy just posted about how she has been feeling about blogging. She put into words what I couldn't, so if you would like to read more along the lines of this topic give her a visit.

Thank you for listening.
Thank you for being my friends.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ Beach studios.

Seaside Cove

2012-02-03T15:33:00.000-08:00

"In the secret places of the cliff..." Song 2:14

read the entire post below...

Seaside Cove

2012-02-02T23:44:00.000-08:00

"In the secret places of the cliff..." Song 2:14

Seaside Cove~ a small sheltered nook in a seashore cliff. A hidden quiet place to getaway and escape the cares of the world.

This is the first of the 'Seaside Cove' posts that I will do every Friday(or Saturday). A weekend retreat to come to and be renewed by the washing of the sea.

Thank you everyone for participating in my poll and casting your vote to decide the name. Many of you left comments about your choice, which I enjoyed reading. Here is what some of you said:

I like the romance of "cove" ~Helen Tilston

Seaside Cove is more lyrical. Seaside Shelter tangles on the tongue. I don't really mind what you call it, or when you post it. I just love seeing posts from you. ~Sarah

I voted for seaside cove. Cove reminds me of an embrace. ~jAne

So come away with me into the secret places of the seacliff and be refreshed. We will bask in the calm together.

"He calms the storm, so that its waves are still. Then they are glad because they are quiet; So he guides them to their desired haven." Psalm 107

And before I go I wanted to share the paintings of the sea I did this week. I have been surrounded by a sea of blue paints letting it's waves flow through me onto canvas...

I love being in my studio with the window open, listening to the trickling water from the fountain. You can see much more by visiting Seawashed Studio or my etsy.

"Birds flying and fish swimming, whales singing in the ocean deeps."

"the birds of the air,
And the fish of the sea
That pass through the paths of the seas." Psalm 8:8

May your weekend be beautifully calm. ox
Sea tidings,
Kerrie

I have been a bit discouraged with blogging, so on Monday I will share my thoughts along with my questions about all the Google changes.

*photos~ Google search, Sea Cottage, Seawashed, H&M.

painting the sea

2012-02-02T14:05:00.000-08:00

I've completed two more paintings of the Sea Series.

I will share more tomorrow. It's a lovely day...the sun is shining and it is warm!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

february...pink, hearts, and roses

2012-02-01T19:41:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it's February?

We are having an unusually mild winter. The birds are beginning to appear in our garden. I have spent the last two mornings sitting in our backyard adirondeck sipping my morning tea. It has been foggy, and very peaceful. The little wrens sit on the branches and chirp.

Isn't this the most romantic setting? Sigh.

All of this pink makes me want to paint a piece of furniture pink. And then I remembered...I have pale pink slipcovers for my Ikea sofas that I bought over a year ago on sale for $1.00 each! I have never used them, but I think I am going to pull them out this month.

Are you adding any pink to your cottage...or hearts, or roses this month?

Thank you everyone for voting for my weekend Seaside **** posts. I will reveal the chosen name on Friday!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie
xoxo

*photos~ We heart it, tumblr, google.

Seaside Cove...or

2012-01-27T09:12:00.000-08:00

I've decided to change my weekly 'Seaside Sundays' post to a 'Seaside Cove' or 'Seaside Shelter' or 'Seaside Retreat' post, so that I can post it on Fridays for the weekend. Which name do you like best? They both mean basically the same thing and the purpose of the post remains the same...a seaside retreat post where you will find coastal photos and poetic words of rest for the weekend.

Shelter~ A place giving protection. A retreat, refuge, harbor, or haven. A place of calm.

Cove~ A small sheltered bay in the shoreline of the sea. A recessed place, a sheltered nook as in cliffs.

or keep it' Seaside Sundays'.

You can vote using the poll gadgets on my sidebar or just leave me a comment letting me know your choice. Thank you!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

~*~ Update- Seaside Cove is in the lead!

*photos~ TickleberryFarm Pinterest, Southern Living.

I will instead whisper your name

2012-01-26T19:18:00.000-08:00

“As I write this letter, the ocean breeze feels cool on my skin. The very ocean is soon to be my grave. They tell me I will die a hero, that the safety and honor of my country will be the reward for my sacrifice. I pray they are right.
My only regret in life is never telling you how I feel. I wish I were back home. I wish I were holding your hand. I wish I were telling you that I have loved you and only you since I was a boy. But I am not. I see now that death is easy. It is love that is hard. As my plane dives, I will not see the face of my enemies. I will only, instead, see your eyes. Like black rocks frozen in rain water. They tell us that we must scream, “Banzai” as we plunge into our target. I will instead whisper your name. And in death, as in life, I will remain forever yours." - Hiroshi's letter (Restless)

From the movie Restless that I watched today with my daughter. We both cried.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Cleaning My Studio

2012-01-25T18:53:00.000-08:00

Today I cleaned my studio. I still have some more organizing to do, but I am getting there. How fast the 'stuff' accumulates. And you all know how much I dislike clutter.

Feels so good. Now to tackle the cupboards in the hallway and boxes in the garage. I have piles and piles of homeschool books and curriculum to sort through.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Ikea inspiration for my kitchen

2012-01-24T11:34:00.000-08:00

When it comes to renovating or building a dream cottage kitchen, a farmhouse sink is on most of our dream(wish) lists. I know it is at the top of mine. But I also made a choice a long time ago to be thankful for what I have. I therefore, am not one to want more or spend alot on items I love. Afterall, I wanted to live in a hut in an African village with dirt floors and a cot for a bed.

I know I've drifted far from my young adult values, but I still try to keep my life in the right perspective. I know I live with far more than I really need. But being a homemaker and creating a dwelling of rest for my family, I do have a weakness for wanting beautiful things. Thank goodness for places like Ikea who makes it affordable to buy some of those beautiful things on my dream list.

So here are some of the things I've found that might become a part of our kitchen renovation...

the domsjo double sink $319

the domsjo single sink $185

Even if we can't get a farmhouse sink yet, I would like to get a farmhouse style faucet.

This faucet $50 is the right price

and we may just try it. I'm not sure I would like the knobs. I like the vintage look of them but they are not practical for washing dishes. Has anyone purchased it?

faucet $159

ringskar faucet $179

in chrome

in sterling silver

and in white

which one would you choose?

white dishes are a must in a white kitchen

white tea cup and saucer $8

fargrik dinnerware set $25
we have this set already and love it.

We have a space next to our kitchen nook with a built in desk. We are thinking of pulling it out and putting in a china cabinet. Here are some of the choices...

the Hemnes glass door cabinet $325

the Hemnes cabinet with drawers $375

the Hemnes wardrobe $379

I like this so much that I would consider using it to store china and dishware in. I think they are all good choices for a nordic coastal decor. I would also love to use this in the hallway to store my R.A Shabby Chic bedding collection.

a must have rug for any coastal cottage

the norvald chairs that we already have

pendant lamps from $20-40

in white

in silver

in chrome

a tea light votive $8
to hang in the trees for a romantic dinner outdoors

and a heart door mat
perfect for the approaching St. Valentine's day!

I am getting excited about this project. Part of the delight is in the gathering of inspiration, don't you think?

And before I go...I am painting Heart(s) Of The Ocean for the approaching month of Febuary(Valentine's love)and am listing them in my etsy as soon as I finish. You can see more at my studio blog. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

linking with Faded Charm Cottage White Weds and A Beach Cottage Good Life Weds.

*photos~ Ikea, Country Living.

Seaside Sundays

2012-01-22T09:46:00.001-08:00

"If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans.." Ps 139

"My life is like a stroll upon the beach,
As near the ocean's edge as I can go."
- Henry David Thoreau, The Fisher's Boy

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ tumblr, Coastal Living, Seawashed.

White kitchen

2012-01-19T12:37:00.000-08:00

The skies are a thin layer of grey with a glow of sun on the horizon. We wait for rain. Bella and I went for a long walk under the redwoods while it remains dry. I could wander through nature all day, everyday, if life allowed it. We are indoors now, by the warm fire. I tend to the housekeeping while Sense and Sensibility plays on the flatscreen.

I have been filing away inspirational images of white kitchens. This one from Better Homes and Gardens is my favorite at the moment. The only home project I have planned for 2012, if our budget allows, is to paint the kitchen white.

The polished nickle pulls and knobs recently added to our oak kitchen cabinets have just not satisfied. The longing for white lingers. Thankfully hubby is supportive. He likes the idea of a white kitchen too. We will put beadboard around the island and possibly paint it a sea grey. The sink is in the island and we want to replace it with a farmhouse sink...possibly the one from Ikea.

As the rain approaches and we find ourselves cozy by the fire for days, I will be dreaming and planning for our kitchen renovation. Any suggestions or helpful hints are welcome.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

An Unexpected Adventure...

2012-01-18T13:02:00.000-08:00

While driving my son to school this morning the battery in our honda died. We were on a country road with ditches on both sides. That means, no space to pull over. Thankfully a small gravel driveway appeared and I pulled in, just before the car died. We sat, we waited, I tried starting the car. Nothing. So, I called AAA but to my suprise found out that we no longer had service. Wonderful hubby stopped making payments last March and didn't tell me. So then I called hubby, whom works 3 hours out of town. He said he was sorry and would come help. Did I mention I was in my nighty? Yep, this is me in the photo above, in my white nighty, sweats, a sweater coat, sock hat, and crocs. I wrote a note to leave on the dash with my phone # so the cops wouldn't give me a ticket. They do that in our city. Then I got the dog, thankfully I had her leash, locked up the honda and we were on our way...walking, down the old country road, in the ditch...on our way back home. Bella barked with excitement. She liked the unexpected adventure...and I will have to admit, I thought it was kinda fun too...nighty and all.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Tiny Shabby Chic Cottage

2012-01-17T16:21:00.000-08:00

This is a re-post that I did in June of 2010. It is the most viewed post in my five years of blogging, according to my stats. I decided to re-post it because Sandy has been on my heart.

Have you seen this? My friend sent me the link of the NY Times article about Sandra Foster building her dream cottage for only $3000.

This really is an enchanting dreamy cottage. I think in this economy it could be the way of the future. You can click on the link at the end of this post to read the full story and see more photos.

Get inspired: Shabby-chic gingerbread house

*Sandy's blog~ My Shabby Streamside Studio.She's a hidden beauty.

Sandy has brought so many of us beauty. Her story has inspired us all. Now she is in need of us to come along side of her and lift her up in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers. She has just lost so much that was dear to her. Can we extend our compassion? Most of us have been, many of us are, in a broken place. I have found in my own suffering that there is beauty in the ashes. Love comes into those dark places and through the tears we find our way again into a place of goodness. Restoration comes. I am praying for you Sandy. ox Kerrie

Find the seed

2012-01-17T09:24:00.000-08:00

Find the seed at the bottom of your heart and bring forth a flower...

A Wall Hook with Flower Vase at New Old Again by Liz and Rick

A new sign at House Of Belonging by Tiffini

Love notecards at The Wheatfield by Katie Daisy

This treasury I created made the front page of Etsy!

I'm still on retreat and it has been good for me. We have had unusually warm sunny weather this entire month, so I have been outdoors alOt! But all good things come to and end...the rains are expected to come tomorrow and last 7 days. We need rain so I am not complaining. I will drink in all the remaining sunshine that I can today. I will miss you sun!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Seaside Sundays

2012-01-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

at Doran Beach

on the Sonoma Coast of the California Pacific Coast

We will be spending Spring break here in 'The Pearl'.

We made our reservations this morning.
Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ Available at Seawashed.

Seawashed Giveaway at Live by the Sun Love by the Moon

2012-01-13T08:12:00.000-08:00

Saun is celebrating her 1 year Blogiversary with a Giveaway from Seawashed. If you would like a chance to win an 8.5 x 11 print along with a postcard print and sea tags give her a visit at Live By The Sun Love By The Moon. While you are there be sure to welcome her to the Blog community!

If you visit Seawashed Studio for an extra entry be sure to click on the FB button and 'like'. thank you kindly. Good luck!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

later...

2012-01-10T22:04:00.001-08:00

I'm back to share the photos of 'today'...

you can see how open our cottage is with the living room, kitchen, and sitting room all flowing together

and there is my tea mug, books, and notecards for letter writing on the farmhouse table...in the background the sofa is well loved by both bella and lily, who sleep on top of the pillows for a view out the window

here is bella with her new french haircut

and her new martha stewart collar

you can barely see her new martha stewart houndstooth fleece, to keep her warm now that her hair is gone!

she sleeps under the blankets to stay warm

Good night!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

today...

2012-01-10T17:37:00.000-08:00

The sun was shining through the windows...I sipped tea and wrote two letters while A Room With A View played in the background. As I sat there at the farmhouse table I liked how comfortable our home looked and decided to take some pictures. I will be back to share them later...

Keep in mind, I did not do a photo shoot. I really don't have time to do such. I did edit the photos a bit by adding some contrast and light, but other than that what you see is Sea Cottage living 'today'. My sofas need a good washing, the carpet needs cleaned or at least vacuumed, and everything needs dusted. I really love my home...dirt and all. I am thankful to be here. I feel lucky to be a homemaker/keeper. To stay home full-time and care for my cottage and family. I get to garden and paint in my studio...

and today I saw beauty in my own home...which I will share with you soon. Right now I have to serve dinner before going to a tennis meeting for my son.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

The Sea Series- original paintings by Kerrie Sanderson

2012-01-09T13:36:00.000-08:00

This is the newest painting of The Sea Series- The Sea III

To see more visit my studio Seawashed.

The Sea I is now available in my etsy

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Seaside Sundays

2012-01-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

I saw this photo on Me And Alice and had to share.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Washed by the sea

2012-01-06T09:50:00.000-08:00

As I purposely retreat from the cares of the world and give myself to the quiet, I find refreshing, like being washed by the sea.

It is what I like most about days spent on the coast. There is always a washing along the seashore whether it be from the crashing waves or the drizzle of seamist.

Of course there is nothing quite like the washing by the sea from actually swimming in its waves. The Northern coast is cold and even in summer you shouldn't stay in the water for long. But I cannot resist getting in and letting the waves wash over my head. There is nothing like the refreshing I feel from the frosty saltwater crashing over me.

Afterwards I rest in the warm sand while the sun dries my hair turning it golden. Washed by the sea...It is me and what I let flow into my painting from brush to water to paint to papier.

I am letting the sea wash through me into my art. The calm of pacific greys and the refreshing of sea blues.

These are some of the new notecards I have listed this week in my etsy shop Seawashed. The waters are stirring within me but it takes time to let them flow onto papier and canvas.

I am a person who waits and listens. I like that one of the definitions of contemplative prayer is~ active quiet. I relate to that. I am quiet but I am active. When I retreat into a place of quiet it is with purpose. I am refreshed and am able to give more.

I read this morning "By his knowledge the depths break open, and the clouds drop dew." Proverbs 3:20

The depths of understanding...breaking me open.

washed by the sea...

and refreshed by the dew.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Sea blues...beach cottage & sea notecards

2012-01-04T11:18:00.001-08:00

beach cottage & sea notecards just listed in my shop Seawashed
$10.00 for a set of 8 cards.

Sea blues to wash away the winter blues.

For more blues I just finished a 'Heart Of The Ocean' painting. To read more about it visit my studio blog.

tootles ox,
Kerrie

Sea blues

2012-01-03T19:21:00.000-08:00

gently washed sea blues...

a new banner for my etsy shop

tiny flowers washed in sea blue available as prints and notecards at Seawashed

beach cottage notecards(printed from a photo I took on the california pacific coast) available at Seawashed

Sea blues washing ashore of a new year...

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ Seawashed, R.A Shabby Chic, Country Living.

among the beauties

2012-01-03T12:42:00.001-08:00

Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life. ~Rachel Carson

*photo~bhg.

Into a new year. January. Reflection

2012-01-01T14:48:00.000-08:00

During this past week I have found myself in a place of reflection.
{"and Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart." Luke 2} I am needing to draw away into the quiet of winter. January(for me) is the quietest month of the year. I look forward to the quiet month of January when the winter season begins surrounded by whites from the mountain snow and crashing icey waves. It is a perfect time for reflecting. So I won't be blogging as much.

When I do post it will be simple...photos and/or words that give beauty. One thing I was reflecting on was "Why do I blog?" and discovered that my desire remains the same...to give beauty and to be a place of rest. A seaside retreat where you(and I) can come to find beauty, calm, and rest from the demands of the world.

During my time away in reflection I will also be painting. You can read more about it on my art studio blog Seawashed.

I am looking forward to the 'new' in the new year.
Thank you for your presence in my little world. I am truly grateful for the blog and etsy communities. Lovely freindships have been made. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*This crown was my favorite christmas gift...it was from a shop called Bianco.

cheers

2011-12-31T19:46:00.000-08:00

cheers to a new year! ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photo~ Pottery Barn.

It's Bella's Birthday

2011-12-29T13:58:00.001-08:00

happy happy 4th birthday

bella as a puppy

I love my lil fluff.

Bella Bleu ox

Mommie loves you.

On Holiday

2011-12-28T11:39:00.000-08:00

I'm enjoying the holidays...

still on break...
see you soon! ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Christmastide...

2011-12-23T13:40:00.000-08:00

Setting the table

2011-12-22T10:26:00.000-08:00

I began piling the dishes onto the farmhouse table so that they are ready for setting. I learned a few years ago that if I set the tables the day before Christmas everything will be clean, ready, and worry free come Christmas day.

This is our Christmas menu that I made by using a frame graphic from Graphic Fairy. I copied it onto a textured postcard papier and sent it to my parents a week ago.

All the presents are wrapped and under the tree. I can hardly believe it's almost Christmas! Merry merry Christmastide to you all! ox ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*note~ this is not my farmhouse table above, though if I painted mine that color it would look just like that. This photo is from Country Living.

The whisper of a feather

2011-12-20T14:53:00.000-08:00

Gentleness...the whisper of a feather.

While walking in the early morning frost I came across a very tiny white feather. It whispered to me...be gentle, we are fragile, go slow.

I bent down to get a closer look. It was so small, so delicate, so soft. As I continued on my walk I found myself taking my time, being at rest in my soul, and thought about how hurried life is around me being the last week of Christmas.

Hope is that thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without the words and never stops... at all. ~Emily Dickinson

And I wanted to share this with you. This whisper of hope. If you are in a hurry, slow down. If you are fretting, let go. We are all fragile. We can slow down and be gentle with ourselves and one another. We can take the time to be calm and give.

Allow yourself to enjoy these holydays. Breath in whatever goodness surrounds you and smile.

As I continued to walk, I came across another tiny white feather laying on the frosted ground.

It whispered again.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished. ~Lao Tzu

May the feather whisper to you too. All is calm.

gentle sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ first photo unknown, feather watercolors by amber alexander, owl feathers by Peter Sommers, horse and cow photography by Jennifer Meyers, white owl photos internet.

My Favorite Christmas Trees 2011

2011-12-19T09:02:00.000-08:00

ethereal christmas trees at Sea Angels

nordic french noel at Burlap Luxe

with her new breathtaking Opera houses

tiny nordic white at Sea Cottage

Nordic cottage christmas at Heaven's Walk

tiny lavender tree at La Maison De Lavende

cottage christmas with vintage mint ornaments at Dreamy Whites

unique oar christmas tree at Beach House found at Completely Coastal

tiny white sea tree at Sea Cottage

snowy white and cotton candy pinks at Cindy's Fractured Fairytale

and look at her pink door!

feathery white and blue sparkles at Ozma Of Odds

romantic whites at My Shabby Streamside Studio

gentle whites and gold at Veranda House

I just love this lil bird in the nest

Fresh pine in galvanized pot with red checkered ribbon at Vita Verandan

fresh bare pine at Dreamy Whites

dainty red ornaments dangling at the bottom of the tree at Laughing With Angels

tree in a vintage red-striped bucket at Cappuccino Cottage

winter's magical whites at Erin's Art and Gardens

even kitty is drawn to the magic!

the grand tree at Sea Cottage

or without the red balls(which I still prefer).

And to see the most beautiful seaside christmas tree visit Once In A Blue Moon...you will be in awe.

I hope you enjoyed this tour of 'my favorites' found in our beautiful blog community. I have seen so many pretty homes laced with christmas loveliness. There is more holiday magic found in your homes than pages of a magazine. Thank you for letting me visit you!

Merry merry days. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Seaside Sundays

2011-12-18T14:15:00.001-08:00

Four small fresh wreaths from Trader Joes hang on the double french doors that separate Seawashed studio from the sitting room.

There is nothing like fresh pine scent in the air to remind us it's December.

Our living room. The 'Beach' sign reminds me of where I love to be.

Emma is happily parked in my art studio waiting for a seaside ride.

The newest Anthropologie catalog on the coffee table. Don't you just love the look of this long skirt draped around her. If it wasn't so expensive I would definetly buy it.

Rustic seaside...this rusty star is a favorite ornament. I have three of them.

A custom order painting I did yesterday. 'SURF' always says Seaside to me.

I will be back tomorrow to share with you some of my favorite Christmas trees of the season found in the blog community. Maybe yours is one of them!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

and more red

2011-12-17T14:51:00.001-08:00

While I was out and about this morning I came across these red glass balls on clearance for $2. They are the same brand as the silver and white ones I bought for our tree this year, and since I already had 'red' stirring in my heart for next year I bought the last four boxes.

Then when I got home I thought, "why wait till next year when we can put them on the tree this year." So I began hanging a few and my kids joined in.

So what do you think? My all white and grey Christmas now has pops of red. The smiles it brought to my kids faces are going in my memory chest. So worth it.

They get a bit bored with my all white decor...but they love me anyways.

I think I was inspired by my own post 'more red' below. tee hee

Now it is time to wrap some presents to put under that tree. Christmas tidings to you all! I hope this last week leading up to Christmas weekend is full of all that is merry and bright. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

more red

2011-12-16T18:31:00.000-08:00

and this is for all of you who are on the Southern hemisphere celebrating Christmas in summer

Christmas cheer ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ House Beautiful, Country Living, Unknown.

Neutrals

2011-12-16T08:24:00.000-08:00

Country Living December 2011...

Beautiful inspiration.

Sea, Ocean, Coast painting for sale in my etsy.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

A Pop Of Red

2011-12-15T08:47:00.000-08:00

Our adirondecks(handmade by the amish) are tucked in a corner of our front yard for a cozy place to sip coffee. With the inside of Sea Cottage being all white and grey I thought I would add some pops of red outdoors. This red lantern, bought on clearance at Ikea, with a red 'merry' sign on the gate...

along with a vintage santa I won a few years ago from a tiny shop called 'The Homestead' on the front porch next to the vintage blue sleigh I purchased from the same shop.

Just enough to give cheer to our coastal christmas cottage.

I am writing christmas cards this morning while a soft rain falls out the window. The girls(and their friend)and I will be baking christmas cookies tonight while watching Family Stone. All our shopping is done, so now I can begin wrapping. Merry merry to you!

bella bleu

a few more of sweet bella...she reminds me of the simple joys of christmas. I hope she does that for you too. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Creating

2011-12-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

I have been in my studio painting and creating. This is one of the paintings I did this week. It will be listed in my etsy soon.

Merry Christmas sanddollar tags I made to include in purchases from my etsy shop, christmas cards, and presents.

and my new business cards printed and handstamped by me.

To see more of what I'm creating visit my studio blog here. Or visit my etsy shop Seawashed.

Don't you just love creating during the holidays while christmas music plays in the background?

and I will be framing this soon.

I just can't get enough of her. ox
Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Christmas Cottage

2011-12-12T09:23:00.000-08:00

My daughter, Grace(second christmas baby), decorated the grand tree in our living room this weekend.

I will be adding my seawashed papier ornaments today.

I really like these crown ornaments from Ikea. They hang so nicely and I don't have to worry about the cat breaking them. Yes...Lily Monet has been playing with the ornaments on the trees.

This ornament means alot to me. I bought it when I was in college working part-time at Aaron Bros. It reflects my artistic side.

My daughter, Holly Noel(our first christmas baby), works at Starbucks. Have you seen these mugs? I think they are perfect for christmas.

All the ornaments are white and silver this year to go with the Coastal Nordic decor. My son, Jeremy, decorated a smaller tree in his room using our aqua baubles and light blue lights.

and here is my little helper...
Bella Bleu
she melts my heart. ox

I just love a christmas cottage. Don't you?

13 more days!
Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*note~ If you are new to my blog you wouldn't know that we have two daughter's, both born at Christmas. My first daughter, Holly, was born on December 26, but I was in labor with her on Christmas. Then, two years later her sister, Grace, was born on Christmas. She was born two weeks early, her due date was Jan. 1st, a new years baby. Her birth is a miracle story that I will re-share in the weeks to come.

Simpler than the trees, deeper than the sea...

2011-12-09T10:59:00.000-08:00

"Our thoughts are quieter than rivers, Our loves are simpler than the trees, Our prayers deeper than the sea." ~Thomas Merton

While my loves are simpler than the trees and prayers deeper than the sea I place my hands to papier creating...sea tags with the theme of Mary holding her son (the Christ-child) at sea's weather torn edge. It reminds me that love does not come without suffering and toil...but it does come...it comes to all.

Do you ever just weep at the knowing of how much Christ loves us? While walking these cold wintry mornings under the 100 yr. old oaks and redwoods in the park nearby, I have found myself crying. Tears falling, heart awakening to the love that embraces me like no other. I am undone by the depths of what he has done..and is doing. I am alone, weeping, while a rising sun rests on me...and I see... all that is beauty, all that is pure.

I am trying to bring that beauty into my creating. These tags are gently hanging throughout our home this christmas...on the driftwood in the corner of the living room

and on the lil tree in the sitting room

and soon after we fluff and string twinkle lights on the grand tree, we will hang them on it as well. I like this tree in its natural form and one day, after the kids are gone, I may leave it as is, adding only natural ornaments. I can see small pieces of driftwood hanging with broken seashells, sanddollars, starfish, and handmade seawashed papier tags.

I hung a wreath with grey satin ribbon on the french door near our kitchen nook looking into the living room. I will also be hanging them on the double french doors of Seawashed studio.

Quieter than the rivers...
the water from my eyes flowing;
allowing the gentle beauty of the season outside in.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Sea treasured mantel and the tree is coming...

2011-12-07T12:22:00.000-08:00

Leopard stockings hanging above the hearth (a bit of Out of Africa)

sea maiden treasures scattered on the mantel

a mermaids crown

silver deep sea bauble

cherished seashells given to me by the ones I love...
the newest is the broken conch shell, from Holly's best friend brought to me from a beach near Beliz on her recent cruise

Jeanne D Arc
grey pearl rosary

these silver baubles will make there way onto the christmas tree that I hope to bring in this evening...it will be next to the leather chair in the living room

one of my favorite prints of Mary

The R.Ashwell writing desk in my bedroom

a tiny white tree in a silver bucket gives a nordic feel

My newest nesting bowl in oatmeal from Moon Flower holds my sea tags in the studio.

I am stamping notecards and tags for customers and to give as gifts. I am also painting some One Of A Kind art on canvas to give to family and friends. I so enjoy wrapping everything beautifully and adding sweet little suprises to each package.

R.A shabby rose stocking hangs with my nighties

Slowly Sea Cottage is being adorned for the holidays. We are baking while watching christmas movies and sitting by the fire. Some shopping is done and some more is needed.

Shopping at Anthro is always a good idea. ox

and how do you like my new song...from One Day? It is a beautiful love story.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

First Week Of December White Wednesday

2011-12-06T21:22:00.000-08:00

"Like snowflakes, my Christmas memories gather and dance..." ~Deborah Whipp

Joining White Wednesdays at Faded Charm Cottage.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ Skona Hem.

Tea in a pretty bella lux cup

2011-12-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

We went to Ikea again on Saturday. Almost all of their christmas stuff is gone. But I was able to buy three more boxes of crown ornaments. We also bought two more Norvald chairs because they were on sale due to being discontinued. Now we have six which will be perfect for Christmas dinner. My brother is moving back home and will coming to Sea Cottage with my parents for christmas. I haven't seen him in five years so I am looking forward to the holidays with him.

I bought a new tea cup called Queen Anne's Lace by Bella Lux. I found it at Homegoods for only $3.99. Now I can sip tea in something pretty during these magical December days.

The feather wreath is hung.

Little by little decorations are appearing. Mostly soft whites.

Now I'm off to buy some presents. And when I return I will begin to sort through boxes of holiday decorations in the garage. I'm giving away alot this year.
19 more days! ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Stinson Beach and Coastal Christmas gifts

2011-12-05T14:27:00.000-08:00

This is the newest sanddollar listed in my etsy of the Sanddollar Series. I painted the original as a gift for my parents. Stinson beach is near San Francisco and is where my parents fell in love.

The print is available in tide, grey, sand, or natural, an 8.5 x 11 for $25. It is printed on watercolor paper so it looks as close to an original painting as possible. I can also print it in 5 x 7, notecards, or postcards. As well as any of the watercolor prints in my etsy shop. Just email or message me if you have any requests. I do take custom orders.

Coastal christmas cards and tags are available in the shop now. But if you would like a set of christmas cards made from one of the other watercolor prints available just let me know and I can have them printed within two days. Visit Seawashed studio to see more.

I have been spending much time outdoors gazing up at the birds fluttering from bare branch to branch, with a few golden leaves. Of course I am bundled up in knitted hats, scarfs, and Ugg boots to keep warm. It is too beautiful of a season to waste away in the midst of crowded stores and traffic. I have done a little shopping but mostly in the small shops that greet you with twinkle lights in thick glassed vintage windows. I am taking photos of a few lovelies I've found to grace Sea Cottage with holiday softness, that I will share with you tomorrow or the next. Taking the days slow, to savor all the beauty. There is so much beauty to behold in one simple day.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

P.S~ I just found out that sarah of a beach cottage included my starfish tags in her 'lovelies'...things she is loving right now. thank you sarah. ox

beauty in the quiet

2011-12-03T17:48:00.000-08:00

where I am for this first week of advent~ In The Quiet

"I had never before spoken freely or so intimately with
woods, hills, buds, water and sky."

"...as water covers the sea."

to read the full posts go here.

Retreats of the ocean...

2011-11-30T10:17:00.000-08:00

As down in the sunless retreats of the ocean,
Sweet flowers are springing no mortal can see;
So, deep in my heart, the still prayer of devotion,
Unheard by the world, rises, silent, to Thee,
My God, silent, to Thee,~
Pure, warm, silent, to Thee.
As still to the star of its worship, though clouded,
The needle points faithfully o'er the dim sea,
So, dark as I roam, thro' this wintry world shrouded,
The hope of my spirit turns, trembling, to Thee,
My God, trembling, to Thee,~
True, fond, trembling, to Thee.
~Thomas Moore 1719-1852

Unheard by the world, rises, silent, to Thee...
faithfully o'er the dim sea.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

For more Nordic Coastal Christmas posts visit~ here and here and here.

linking with Faded Charm White Weds & A Beach Cottage Good Life and Nautical Cottage Blog for 24 Days of Coastal Christmas party.

And now linking with Jennifer Rizzo's Holiday Housewalk Party.

*all sea maiden artwork by John Waterhouse

Christmas Shopping with a French Theme for under $50

2011-11-29T08:30:00.000-08:00

Maison De Michele~
French inspired handmade, handsewn, and vintage items.

Antique european grainsack pillow faded blue stripe $55.00

Antique european grainsack pillow $65.00

Linen ruffled raw edge pillow sham $45.00

Antique european grainsack stocking with red strip $50.00

French Larkspur~

Franc plates $30.00

La Croix jute rug $46.00

Antique french maps $45.00

Jeanne de Arc Living pillow cover $37.00

Burlap Luxe~
a place that you will enjoy being inspired by art and European flea market finds.

Hand painted on distressed vintage wood Merry Christmas sign $49.00

french nordic christmas sign

Dreamy Whites~

Vintage grainsack stockings $40.00

red stripe

soft floral

Vintage grainsack wine holder with blue stripe $28.00

Antique european latte bowls $50.00

and $55.00

and my favorite $40.00

Kate Blossom~
Eco Prairie Edgy Unique Custom Bridal clothing

Upcycled prairie blouse $51.00

Upcycled aqua knitted hat $30.00

Upcycled rustic rose eyelet skirt $45.00

Upcycled faded rosette little girl prairie dress $45.00

Faded Plains~

Wood ammo crate $30.00
I can see this decorated with fresh pine greens and antique baubles

Ticking And Toile~
French linen shoppe

Shabby ruffle paris placemats (set of two) $40.00

French grainsack stocking $32.00

French prairie collection ruffled pillowcases $30.00

Merry shopping everyone! Tomorrow I will post my white sea christmas tree for white wednesday.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Shopping For Christmas

2011-11-28T09:43:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share with you some online shops that I have been shopping at for the holidays. Some of them you will know and some I hope will be new to you. Whether you are looking for items to decorate your home or to give as gifts, you will find some lovely choices here.

Today I am going to share items for under $25.OO. Tomorrow I will share items for under $50.00.

Dreamy Whites~

Mini stockings made from vintage grainsack $8.95 each.

Red and white butcher twine $17.00.

Lavender pillows made from vintage grainsacks with a red stripe $25.95 each.

and a faded red stripe.

Faded Plains~

Glass compote $15.00 for displaying baubles or christmas candies.

Ironstone buffalo mugs $25.00. Perfect for coffee or hot chocolate on a cold winter nights.

French mustard jar $22.00.

Rustic vintage metal pitcher in the perfect chippy red $19.00 for decorating for christmas.

Vintage flower frog in green $12.00. Could be used to display treasured christmas cards.

Exgoatmilker~

Linen pants for wee ones(size 3mos, 6mos, 9mos, 12mos) $18.00.
These cute pants are made from 100% natural linen on one side and Robert Kaufman's Mon Sheri print on the other.

Pinafore's for little girls(size 3-12mos) $20.00.
These are darling and can be worn with the linen pants. This smock is fully reversible and made of high quality, 100% cotton fabric. Robert Kaufman's Mon Sheri with white buttons on one side and his Double Happiness with pink buttons on the other.

This smock is fully reversible and made of high quality, 100% cotton fabric. Sandi Henderson's Farmer's Market on one side with Riley Blake's Sweet Divinity on the other.

Castles Crowns and Cottages~

Paris christmas cards $12.00 for a set of 6.

Sea fairy print $20.00.

Moon Flower Creations~

Mini stockings in mint, pink, silver, and gold $4.95 each.

French Larkspur~

Amour pearl bracelet now on sale for $30.00. (this is above the below $25 price range, but I just love it...I want one.)

Etched votive $12.00.

Tiny blue flowers set of 4 tea cups and saucers from Germany now on sale $28.00.

Love Embellished~

Burlap beach babies stockings $14.00 set of two.

56 piece Driftwood set large size $14.00.

30 piece Driftwood set medium size $12.00.

Seashell mini journals $4.95 set of two.

Atelier 28~

Original etching beach huts 5x7 print $25.00.

Original etching 5x7 print Beach hut $25.00.

Original etching 5x7 print Meditation $25.00.

Ozma Of Odds~

French nordic blue winged dove tags $7.95 for a set of 2.

French nordic Mary collection of tags $9.00 for a set of 3.

MB Art Studios~

Peace on earth bird clay ornament $14.00.

Swim in the Sea earthenware clay plaque $25.00.

Keep calm earthenware clay plate $22.00.

I hope this helps you get started with your holiday shopping. I will be back tomorrow with more.

Until then...stay calm..

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

and now it's time for Christmas

2011-11-26T09:16:00.000-08:00

Looking into our sitting room where we had our thanksgiving feast...

We had a lovely day with family. So much to be thankful for. I am still enjoying spending time with them.

The men are putting twinkle lights on Sea Cottage while I decorate a small white tree. I hung our new leopard print stockings.

And now for some inspiration from Country Living...

See you Monday!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Giving Thanks for friendship

2011-11-23T10:12:00.000-08:00

“Friendship," said Christopher Robin, "is a very comforting thing to have.”
― A.A. Milne

I just want to say 'thank you' for your sweet friendship. Knowing your always here is a comfort. It is a happiness of mine to have you here at Sea Cottage and a delight to be welcomed into your hearts and homes too. May our friendships continue to grow. I give thanks for you!

and just because most of us will be eating potatoes tomorrow...

What I say is that, if a man really likes potatoes, he must be a pretty decent sort of fellow.”
― A.A. Milne

love you ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ Holly Hobbie, Skona Hem.

Grey Bistro chairs and a Sea Tree...

2011-11-21T09:22:00.000-08:00

Good morning. Are you anticipating the Thanksgiving holiday? I have been enjoying a beautiful sunshining with blue skies morning watching the birds in our trees until about 11 minutes ago. A very thick fog just blew in from the south...kinda creepy looking. Well, I just had to share what I was up to this weekend.

After seeing my post on the November Seaside Table I decided the green bistro chairs had to go...

so I dragged them out to the garage and spray painted them stone grey. I still have to give them a light sanding but am pleased with the transformation. Hubby especially likes them. I also painted the iron container that the pillow is in(in the background of the above photo) blossom white. I'm not sure if I like it. I think I am going to go buy some more stone grey and paint it grey as well. Maybe grey then sand it, white and then sand it. Not sure...any suggestions?

I am not decorating for Christmas yet. But wanted to have a small tree since my parents are coming. This little silver tree I call my sea tree. It is decorated with white seastars and seashells we have gathered on our many walks along the shore. I've added the 'sea tags' this year. Available in my etsy.

The big shell at the base of the tree is from Laurie of Heaven's Walk.

this shell my daughter Holly found at Newport beach and brought it home for me.

There are new posts at my other blogs~

Seawashed

Nora Pearl...my vintage cottage camper. Look for the new photo I added to the sidebar of my Great Grandmother Nora Pearl(beloved mother of 15 with 4 sets of twins!) reading to me and my cousins.

and my tiny bleu flowers are now available as notecards(set of 8) with Coastal Christmas items in my etsy shop for $10.00.

There is also a lovely Giveaway at A Rosy Note. I liked the jewelry art so much that I bought three charms today. She is offering free shipping if you spend $25 or more this month. The link is in my sidebar.

Hope you are 'keeping calm and carrying on' as the week leads up to family gathering, giving thanks, and feasting. Take time to breath in the autumn air and reflect on all that is good. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Seaside Sundays

2011-11-19T22:27:00.001-08:00

Seaside Sunday with thanksgiving in mind...

these white chairs are the same ones we have around our espresso brown round table in the kitchen nook. I will be moving it into the sitting room near the farmhouse table to decorate for thanksgiving also.

This carrot salad looks so delicious. I'd like to try and make it for a side dish for our thanksgiving feast.

But I thought some seafood pot pies and casseroles sounded good for this seaside sunday.

You can cook them up in your lovely kitchen. This kitchen pantry is one of my favorites. The clock here was the inspiration for changing my clock next to the hutch in our sitting room from shabby chic to industrial(if you don't remember you can see it on my sidebar).

I am going to try and make this tuna casserole for dinner tonight.

then maybe a nice nap after all the comfort food.

and thats it for seaside sundays. All photos from Coastal Living except the bedroom from Country Living. My son is on holiday for the week so I may not be blogging much. I'm hoping to go to the zoo and the movie theatre once or twice. After Thursday we will go to the Dickens Faire and Christmas parade in our Historical Old Towne. A morning trip up the mountain to apple hill for apple donuts has been requested too. Who knows we may even do some snow sledding. I'm looking forward to spending time with my family. Happy Seaside Thanksgiving from our cottage to yours. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

November Seaside Table

2011-11-18T09:30:00.000-08:00

Our pine farmhouse table covered with the new white ikea dishware, a few bowls from anthro, a martha stewart white pitcher, palm linen napkins, mismatched silverware, seashells, starfish, and leaves from a morning walk.

creating an autumn seaside table for Thanksgiving...

"falling leaves
hide the path
so quietly."

~John Bailey Autumn

I added a few lemons I picked from our neighbors tree

lemons create a bit of sunshine

I would like the table to feel casual yet comfortable as if we were sitting on the veranda looking out to the beach

Hubby will be roasting turkey breast on the grill using applewood chips to enhance the flavor

we always have roasted whole chicken to go with the traditional mashed russet potatoes, homemade gravy, homemade french stuffing, stir fried green beans with toasted almonds, cranberry sauce and rolls

I will bake a peach cobbler using the fresh picked peaches of summer from the freezer

my mom will bring a pumpkin pie and cool whip

and after all the feasting is done, we will go for our traditional family walk
around the neighborhood to see the twinkling lights

and that is what gathering around the Sea Cottage table for giving thanks will be like this year.

The door is always open,
with extra chairs to bring to the table
for anyone who needs a place to eat...

and we always get a few of our children's friends who stop by to do just that.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Letting nature in...

2011-11-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

As the season has turned to autumn with cold mornings and quieter days, I try to spend some time outdoors every day. The beauty of the changed season surrounds us in the dropping of crimson and golden leaves, moss covered rocks along waters edge, frost laced grass and fog upon the fields. It really is beautiful when we step outside and let nature in.

The approaching holidays are truly lovely when we embrace the life of the season rather than that which can burden the heart. Letting nature in...letting life in...that is what I am doing. Letting nature into my heart and into my home. Reminding myself of what matters most.

I found this tiny twig of three leaves on my morning walk and brought it home. I placed it on the console behind the sofa next to a piece of driftwood and felted bowl(handmade by Moon Flower) filled with broken sanddollars. Isn't it better than any holiday decor you could buy in the stuffed mega stores?

The felted bowls in oatmeal created by Salina of Moon Flower I purchased in September.

The felted bowl in moss I just received from Moon Flower this week.

I think it goes perfectly with my pine tree notecards and I will be giving them together as a christmas gift to a dear friend.

These felt bowls are handmade by Salina who crochets them and then washes till the yarn gets fuzzy. They are perfect for holding treasures brought into the home found in nature...like pinecones, rocks, seashells, sanddollars, leaves, twigs, moss, dried flowers, and more. Visit Moon Flower if you would like your own felt bowls to bring the soft warmth of autumn into your cottage.

Letting nature in...

the beauty of autumn and winter's cold days. ox

Tomorrow I will be posting my Autumn Table with the concept of 'letting nature in'...just in time for Thanksgiving. Here is a sneak peek...

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Emma

2011-11-14T17:46:00.000-08:00

So while I was curled up in our new leather chair this weekend eating fresh out of the oven baked peach cobbler, I was watching one of my favorite movies(being my birthday and all) Emma.

While the cobbler melted in my mouth as I escaped into Emmaland, I began thinking about my bike...my new white beach cruiser...and how Emma would be a perfect name for her. Emma afterall is my 85 yr. old Grandma's name, whom is so dear to my heart. She still lives on her own, in her little trailer house cottage on the Nebraska plains, where she walks everyday, tends a huge veggie garden in summer, and goes to church every Sunday. She's never gone by the name Emma(she doesn't like it) but rather her middle name Geraldine(Gerry for short).

So Emma it is. Emma means universal. So does catholic. Being a new catholic myself, I rather like it.

and Emma is just a vision of pure beauty...and you know how fond I am of beauty.

And here are some of the other treasures I piled in our cart at Ikea this weekend...

Oceanus...perfect for our nordic coastal cottage.

Have you seen these map pillows? They are new. I just love them. They are made in a linen fabric and come with the pillow insert...for $14.99!

and this is the backside...love all these buttons. I actually have the backside facing front on the sofa because I like it so much.

I really bought them for my son's room which is a sort of an island style, but they just look so good in our living room. He has a big map above his Ikea sofa/bed with palms, potted cactus and plenty of wood. I need to do a post of his room. He is very neat and keeps his room spotless.

and these are the 99 cent coffee cups that match the white dishware set we bought last week. These are the ones that fit perfectly in my honda cup holder so I can take my tea with me every morning.

We also bought a few more packages of white napkins and the snoboll holiday dessert plates. I found out on Thursday that my parents will be able to come to our traditional Thanksgiving Dinner. My Dad has been in a lot of pain and will be having back surgery. We thought he was going to have the surgery this month but his Doctor scheduled it for the first week of December. So they will make it here to *Sea Cottage* for Thanksgiving. My Dad's initials are S.E.A. Isn't that sweet. I love my Dad. He has kindly helped us remain in our cottage during this economic recession. I always look forward to cooking a wonderful feast for him and my Mom on Thanksgiving.

So I think we've got just about everything we need to set a lovely table for the holidays. Can you believe it is less than two weeks away? How did that happen. It has been beautiful sunshine here and I am still wearing flip flops!

I also have been picking spinach from my garden and cooking it up with sliced mushrooms in extra virgin olive oil for omlettes. Mmm...they are so good. Picked the first of our romaine for lunch. Hope all is well in your neck of the woods. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

The Leather Chair

2011-11-13T15:25:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting a leather chair for...ever! Like most of you.
I've been daydreaming of an old worn leather chair...but in reality the price tag is just too much. I could feed a child in Africa for years with that kind of money.

So when we were just strolling through Ikea last weekend, with nothing over $20 in our basket, and came across the display for this leather chair with the poster stating that it would be on sale for $149 this weekend...we first sat in it a good long while(so comfy), inspected it(to see how well made it is), and sat in it some more...we(hubby) decided we must come back and get it!

And so we did. On Saturday we woke up bright and early and hurried across rivers and city to be the first in line. Well, there was no line. But there were a few others loading up a chair(chairs) onto a cart like we were.

Of course after all the excitement(we got a leather chair!!!) we had to stroll through Ikea and fill our cart with more treasures. We ate 99 cent breakfast too. We were out the door and on our way home by 11:00am. When we got home all my hubby had to do was open the box and pull it out. No assembly required. And while our two youngest kids(and pets) played in the box, Hubby and I oohed and aahed over our newly beloved leather chair...while adding different toss pillows and throws.

I like how Atlanta Bartlett adds a rose floral toss pillow to her leather chair...

my version

an R.A shabby chic toss pillow with our new leather chair...

And a grey throw next to a blazing fire.

Do you like?

What a difference it makes...

Before

and before

I will share the rest of my treasures this week. I'm going to feast on the organic tri-tip steak and baked potatoes my Hubby cooked for me. ox
happy birthday to me.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

{click on all photos to enlarge}

*photos~ 1 Beach Studios, 6 Atlanta Bartlett, all the rest Sea Cottage.

Morning light and notecards for christmas...

2011-11-10T09:31:00.000-08:00

I wanted to let you know that I have notecards and gift tags in my etsy shop Seawashed listed as Coastal Christmas...

I just listed these 'Faded Rose' notecards yesterday for those whom decorate in shabby chic, french nordic, or country cottage style for the holidays. They were painted in a soft watercolor wash to give gentle beauty to any christmas setting.

These come in a set of 8 for $10 and are blank inside. You could use these all year long, so they would make a lovely gift as well.

I have added the color choices of 'grey' and 'forest' to the Pine Tree notecards. These notecards are simple and blank inside so they can be used as christmas cards, thank you's, placecards, or decorating. You could easily punch holes in the corner and weave a lovely ribbon through to make a holiday banner.

These are the newest in my Coastal Christmas cards...
I just listed them in my etsy last night.

Sanddollar christmas cards in your choice of grey, aqua, red, or green 'Merry Christmas' script. They come in a set of 10 for $10 and are blank inside for your own personal message.

These also can be used for holiday decorating, placecards, or thank you's.
All notecards are signed on the back by me, the artist.

These are just a few of the choices for Coastal Christmas cards and tags available in my etsy shop. I hope you will come by and take a peek!

I'm taking a break for the three day weekend because it is my birthday! Tomorrow on 11~11~11 I will be 45. Our plans to go to the coast have been postponed due to rain. So we will do what I love to do in the rain...go to the city and sit in my favorite cafe's and stroll the streets with umbrella's while window shopping. Have a beautiful weekend. See you next week. ox
Sea tidings,
Kerrie

I almost forgot...
my artist daughter Grace has been making dreamcatchers and just listed her Coastal Dreamcatcher in my etsy shop. I will be adding more in the months to come...we will be making our own version of shabby chic dreamcatchers using vintage ribbon and soft feathers in shades of white, sea blues and pale pinks.

hem me in

2011-11-08T12:01:00.000-08:00

"You hem me in, behind and before,
and rest your hand upon me." Psalm 139:5

"Tu es devant moi et derrière moi:
tu m'entoures; ta main est sur moi." Psaumes 139:5

Ikea and more nordic coastal...

2011-11-07T09:46:00.000-08:00

Good morning...
Did you enjoy the first November weekend? I did. I got alot done around this Sea Cottage, but also enjoyed supping with family and watching good movies by fireside like 'The Holiday' and 'Music From Another Room'. We cooked up a lovely Sunday Feast again of real mashed potatoes and gravy! The hubby grilled chicken breasts instead of a roasted chicken to go with the potatoes, gravy, corn and hot out of the oven dinner rolls. I also had lots of fun shopping...

Is there anything better than strolling through Ikea during the holidays??? I tell you if you are feeling even a teenie bit down that summer is over and the cold days of winter are on there way, just head on out to your nearest Ikea and tuck yourself into the midst of their christmas lanes and you will be cheered immediatly. It really does make your heart pitter patter with joy. And even though they were out of some of the holiday items I was looking forward to purchasing, I found other suprises.

Here are the snoboll paper plates and cupcake papers.

They were all out of the paper cups and cocktail napkins. But I got the plain white napkins I love anyway.

They did have the snoboll dishware and coffee mugs. I decided not to get them. You can visit A Beach Cottage if you'd like to see them. She just posted about her finds on a recent trip to Ikea over the weekend.

I decided I would rather have a plain white dishware set. Seems I can never walk out of Ikea without a set of dishes. This time we got the Fargrik set in white for $24.99.

It goes well with the Dinera series that we have an abundance of in beige. I love stoneware. I wanted white for the holidays this year.

We also bought the Fagrik coffee mugs because they fit perfectly in the drink holder of our honda. Now I can take my tea with me while driving the kids to school. And now that Holly works at Starbucks she's got even my just turned 16 yr. old son Jeremy drinking coffee. Oh joy! Now all four of my children drink coffee along with their Dad. So you will find me with my tea and him with his coffee in a nice white Fargrik coffee mug on the roads at 7:30 am. every day.

And here is one of the suprises I found...
Look at these adorable little crowns. They come in a pack of 3 for $4. They are ornaments, but I know some of you women(like Rosemary) will wave your magic wand over them creating something enchanting to adorn the home year round.

I got the candle mirror sconce that really is so much prettier in person. Sorry about the bad photo. It is really nice quality for $14.99 and would be a lovely gift to give. I hung it in our kitchen nook next to the round Bjursta table. We are so sad that the Norvald chairs have been discontinued. We just love our white ones.

But this is what I am most excited about...
After Ikea we went downtown to the bike shop to get my new fenders for my beach cruiser!

They were out of stock when I bought my electra and so I had to order them.

Then my hubby put them on last night. Don't they make her look even more beautiful? I love lOvE Love them. Now I really need to think of a name for her.

I will take her for a ride down to the post office later today...and ring my bell. ox

I've began decorating in a small way, keeping with the nordic coastal christmas theme. I switched out the black framed sanddollar for the white on the mantel.

and added a holiday bauble.

The fog rests gently on the fields behind our cottage along with our first frost.

I repainted the settee in our entryway. This settee is an old sewing seat from my Mom. It was originally mahogany wood with pine green upolstery fabric.

Then it was painted robin's egg blue and covered in white eyelit upolstery fabric.

But this weekend I found some thick white cotton/linen fabric on clearance and got busy painting and reupolstering. The grey looks so much better in our small entryway. Adjacent to the entryway is the sitting room where the vintage side-table in the same grey is. These nordic greys give our cottage a winter calm.

I found this 'torrey pine' tea plate at the Goodwill for 49 cents.

On the back it says 'fine china torrey pine'. It reminds me of a delicate watercolor painting.

Lovely for winter.

We will be going back to Ikea early early Saturday morning to get the Jappling leather armchair that is on a two day sale for $149.00. We have been searching for a leather chair to go in our living room corner where the 22 yr. old wicker rocker is. The rocker is falling apart and is only suitable for the kitty. This chair is comfortable, has double stitched seams, and is just the right price.

Ikea I 'heart' you. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Nordic Grey

2011-11-04T12:07:00.001-07:00

I ordered this from here this morning...

And my Coastal Christmas Pine Tree Cards are now available in my etsy in Nordic Grey...

and these are a few of the grey items on my list for shopping at Ikea tomorrow. I will share next week what I end up getting.

I know these aren't grey but you know Sea Cottage is mostly white
the Fargrik dinnerware set
the snoboll disposable cups
the gemenskap wall sconce
the flaster gray bench
and ombytlig mugs

I have about 20 things on my list...there is alot of grey items for Christmas this year at Ikea...napkins, towels, tableclothes, coffee mugs, etc. Perfect for a Nordic Coastal Christmas. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

November Calm

2011-11-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

November is here...

and it's chilly... bringing us indoors to snuggle with hot tea(or coffee) and maybe light a fire. I don't know about you but I have been waiting for October to pass so I could create the soft glow of winter thats been in my heart these past few weeks. I just wasn't ever in the mood for orange this year. Instead I held onto summer for as long as I could, which was easy to do with temps still in the 80's here in the valley. But now November is here and the cold has blown in, so I am embracing the quiet it brings and spending more time creating in the studio.

I've been busy stamping tags. This is a new stamp I just found and I love the old leather feel it conveys. Perfect for the black and white(and greys) theme I am going for this holiday season.

and stamping more sea tags

I have been framing more of my sanddollar prints in black(and white) frames.

The black gives a more wintry feeling to the cottage. I will place a mercury grey ornament next to this one on my mantel when it gets closer to Christmas. These are also available in my etsy.

Here I've pasted my starfish onto white foam board along with a starfish stamped tag and added ribbon with string. I will use them for decorating gifts or christmas trees or hanging from knobs and hooks around the cottage. I will do this with my sanddollar prints too.

And I have put away all summery florals and slowly added more greys and blacks to the whites...like this velvelty pillow I showed in my last post. They are no longer hidden behind the white pillows though, I have brought them to the forfront.

I added this dark grey mariposa cardstock to an empty whitewashed wood wall piece. The gold shines in the candlelight which gives the room a bit of romance.

And a zinc galvanized house number from Burlap Luxe on the coffee table.

Our temps have dropped and rain is on its way. Snow for the Sierras down to 4000 ft, which is low for this time of year. We will spent this weekend downtown in the cafes while watching the rain... and then a stroll through Ikea. We will also pop into the bike shop to pick up the white fenders for my beach cruiser that I ordered. Can't wait!

and here are the new crocs I got to keep my feet dry in the rain.

If you are bundled up inside and need some inspiration for getting in the holiday crafting mood visit Melissa at Miss Sew & So. She cheered my heart this morning with her new bright red tin 'keep calm' coffee mug. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ Pottery Barn, Seawashed, Unknown.

Nordic Coastal

2011-11-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

"November always seemed to me the Norway of the year."
- Emily Dickinson

So I've made some changes in my sitting room to go with the nordic coastal decor of the rest of our home. The Autumn 2010 issue of Jeanne d' Arc Living was my inspiration...

I took down the R.A Shabby Chic faded rose clock and put up the industrial clock

my collection of white pitchers

antique white rosary from My Petite Maison hangs from the crystal knob

these simple ikea black candle holders and white pillar candles add just the right nordic touch

I have these all around our home. I plan on decorating very simple for Christmas remaining with the nordic coastal theme in black and white with greys.

this seashell wreath made by Dore is now back on the front door

the 'by the sea' sign from Laurie now hangs above the sofa

I removed the rose glass window and hung my 'lovely' painting in its place. It adds a bit of weathered industrial look to the sitting room.

black bead rosary on the cathedral candle tower

these black velvet patterned pillows are a favorite of mine. I bought them about 7 yrs. ago. They used to be in my daughter Holly's room but now they are on the sofa in the sitting room...

if you look closely you can see them behind the white pillows.

a new grey soft throw will add warmth on cold November days.

I bought a medium size white christmas tree for %50 off that I will decorate with black and white hand-stamped tags

these feather tags are available in my etsy shop

Here are the before photos of my sitting room when I used to call it the 'tea rose room'...

before~ china hutch in shabby chic decor for spring

before~ sitting room with rose window and birdhouses

before~ vintage side table in robins egg blue with shabby chic toss pillows

I used items from around my home to make these changes to the sitting room. I still have a few more things to do like paint the entry way settee grey to match the vintage side table.

and how are you enjoying this first of November day? Overnight we went from 80 degrees to a chilly windy day. I will try not to blow away!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

Almost November

2011-10-31T16:16:00.000-07:00

"I saw the lovely arch
Of rainbow span the sky,
The gold sun burning
As the rain swept by."
- Elizabeth Coatsworth, November

Though the sun shines warmly here on the west coast it is still autumn. We will have a feast of Roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce and hot out of the oven dinner rolls. Mmmm...then we will hand out candy to all the wee little monsters that grace our front porch tonight.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*all photos Victoria except the chandie Rachel Ashwell.

Seaside Sundays

2011-10-29T23:17:00.001-07:00

I am finally feeling better and I am looking forward to November. I have some changes in my home to share with you! My favorite thing in this Coastal Living photo is the ocean view and the pale red striped grainsack toss pillow. My eyes are drawn straight to that pillow. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*Coastal Living.

Beautiful Places...

2011-10-28T21:29:00.000-07:00

I won!!! What a way to make a girl feel better. I think I could do a lil dance...a tiny twirl. Wee...I am so delighted.
Thank you beautiful Lulu of Dusty Lu Interiors for this lovely gift. ox
She has had the privilege of being one of Rachel's photographers! How wonderful is that. I admire all of her work. Annndd... she has a son named Luke, just like I do.

I can't wait to linger through these lovely pages...

Rachel has such a gentle, beautiful spirit that shines softly in everything she creates. I always feel peace from her beauty.

She has a way of reminding me of what is most important in decorating my home. She knows how to keep it a place of sanctuary.

She does take us to Beautiful Places.

I had already ordered the book, which is supposed to arrive for my birthday on Nov. 11th. But I am going to keep the signed one from Lu and give the one I ordered away to my daughter...or a dear friend. ox

I can hardly wait!

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ R.A website.

Under The Weather

2011-10-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

I have not been feeling well. Suffering a tension or migraine headache that has made me feel quite ill. So things are pretty slow around here...and for those who have emailed, I may not get back to you for a while. No parties for me this weekend. boo hoo. I'm staying in and resting. My sweet bleubell(Bella Bleu) by my side. ox

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photo~ Graphic Fairy

Bambi

2011-10-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

I daydream of owning a Bambi airstream one day...

to see more visit nora pearl blog.

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

October's End...

2011-10-24T08:41:00.001-07:00

How beautifully leaves grow old. How full of light and color are their last days. ~John Burroughs

October comes to an end this week...

Ours is full with Homecoming. On Friday I will ride my bike to watch my son on the float in the parade, like I have for the last two years. Then we will go cheer for our undefeated football team. Immediately after the game we will quickly change into costumes and drive out to the country for our friend's Halloween Party. We are spending the night in the 'Pearl', who has been at home on their land since June. All four of my children are coming so we shall have a good ole time!

For us October is not just about harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, apple cider, and hearty soups.

or cozying up by the fire.

It's also about my youngest child, my baby boy...

Today is his sweet sixteenth birthday.
Jeremiah Samuel born October 24th 10 lbs 9 oz.

I remembered this morning that I have always called him pumpkin, or pumpkin pie. Funny that I never realized how appropriate that is until now. I am baking a chocolate cake and will order Round Table pizza(his favorite) for dinner. He spent the weekend camping with his Dad, brother, and best friend on the coast boogie boarding and cruisin around on his new longboard. So tonight we will stay home and carve pumpkins.

October's end...

October is always full of making memories but I am looking forward to November, are you?

Sea tidings,
Kerrie

*photos~ Southern Living, Country Living.