Repaving the Driveway

Nothing says glamorous like having your driveway repaved!  Just keeping it real!  It's been a few years since we've last had our driveway paved...and since then...the city has torn up and repaved the end of the drive three times over the years. (since they own the first x number of feet).

First time they tore everything up...including the front lawn..was to upgrade our area to add us to the city's sewer system.  Up until that point...home owners in our neighbourhood had their own septic tanks.   And regulations require home owners to have their tanks emptied and either filled with sand or removed from the property.  We opted to have ours removed...of course now we had the back lawn area dug up to remove and and the front lawn torn up to hook us on to the new system.  That meant putting in a new front lawn (at our own expense)...and the city paved the area of the drive they had destroyed.

The very next year...the city upgraded our neighbourhood again...to connect everyone to the city water supply...rather than each home having it's own well.  Again...the front lawn and driveway was dug up...and we were connected to city water.

Now it did not matter if you chose not to connect to either of these services...you were going to be charged a monthly fee anyways.  For example...the neighbours to the right of us...did not connect to city water...but they pay for it.  Go figure.  They will have to connect at some point...as we now have water meters and billed for the water we use.  Which is fine for us....we use less water than say a family of five so why should we be paying the same amount.  Cheaper to only pay for the water you use.

Where was I going with all this?  Oh...yes.  Once we had the lawn and end of drive repaired for a second time...the city decided it was time to put in new culverts and sidewalks!  So...round three!

So, now the end of our drive has quite a slope...as opposed to being flat...miserable during the winter when snow and ice builds up.

I've spend the last couple of weeks getting paving quotes from paving companies...and it turns out there is quite a difference in cost.  The company we chose, has their own asphalt plant...so there is no markup on the price like there would be if a company has to purchase the asphalt and make a bit a money on the mark up.  Quite a mark up it is too...to the tune of $600 or more.

So we chose the company that makes their own asphalt...they will level the driveway...put down a new layer of gravel base and then a layer of fresh asphalt.  Around the end of July.

And pool update...since summer has finally arrived here...of course...we want our pool up & running. I stopped in to pool shop...and was advised we are "next on the list".   Story of my life.   With rain in the forecast tomorrow and Monday being Canada Day...it's safe to say, if the weather is good...we won't see them until next week.  I was advised the new liner we chose in April has arrived..so weather permitting...keeping fingers crossed we will be functional next week.

Today is my grand daughter's high school graduation in Nova Scotia...so motoring across the Confederation Bridge to attend the ceremonies!

Flowers Are Blooming

It's hard to believe that our gardens look as amazing as they do, given the constant wet weather we've had for the past two months.  It looks like starting tomorrow...things will take an upswing with sun and warmer temps in the forecast.

I'm patiently waiting for the first of three peonies to bloom...the first one is a gorgeous cranberry colour.  We also have a pretty pink one, which blooms shortly after...and a new one planted only last year...will have orange blooms..which will need a few more years to mature.

Our rhododendron is showing off her amazing colour!  This shrub is years and years old...I'm thinking, since it doesn't get very big...it might be a dwarf version.  But stunning none the less!

We have Alium in two colours...white and a deep violet!  These multiply like rabbits!!  Mr. Seventies

has split and moved dozens of their bulbs...and they keep on growing!!

These striking beauties are known as Jacob's Ladder...we seem to have a number of purple or violet colours in the gardens...

And the Bridal Spirea is just starting to blossom!  And she will be stunning...long arches of white flowers...so reminiscent of a large bridal bouquet in days gone by!!  We paid about $15 for her from a nursery many years ago...and she has not failed us!!  The shrub next to her is a Burning Bush...will be flaming red in the fall!

Another view...the tulips have pretty much finished blooming for this year!

In the foreground...miniature Bachelor Buttons...they spread like wildfire...really filling in this garden.

The Iris have bloomed even more since taking these photos..Mr. Seventies is ordering a few more that come in yellow/orange!  Those will get planted in the fall...for next spring's bloom. 

As Hosta are thriving with our damp, cool weather!

There is lots more to bloom yet!  I suspect the Red Prince and Varigated Wiegelia will be next!

Look who I ran into at Home Sense the other day...look familiar?  Larger than the prints I ordered previously...and more expensive...and I prefer darker frames.  But adorable none the less!

The sun is out...hope to spend a bit of time on the deck this afternoon!  If the weather is as good as forecasted....Mr. Seventies will get the front step stained this week!  

New Slipcover

When a flyer arrived in the mail 3-4 years ago from a furniture store from the eastern part of the province...the front page displayed the very slipcovered pieces I had been longing and searching for!  In other parts of the world, slip covered furniture had been available for ages...due in part to Ikea I suspect.  But at that time, there was no Ikea store in the Maritimes...until about a year ago when one opened up in Nova Scotia.

After a quick trip to the furniture store....only to discover they only had the sofa in stock...and it, the love seat and chair would need to be ordered.  At the time...I wanted a neutral colour...so I chose the off white covers.  Then I waited patiently for almost 8 weeks for everything to arrive.

I have been extremely happy with the furniture itself...the covers...not so much.   The first piece to show wear is the chair...the stitching has let go along the top behind the back cushion...and the piping on the arms is really showing wear.  So, time to have a new cover made.  I'll start with the chair...and decide on the sofa and love seat at a later time.

Finding a seamstress has proven challenging.  One awesome lady is more than happy to ... but with one catch.  You need to deliver your chair to her location....which is outside the city.  As awesome as her work is...as she made slipcovers for my daughter's sofa and love seat...their furniture was gone for two months while she sewed them!  Since my current cover is available, it should be pretty simple to make a new cover using it as a template.  But that suggestion was turned down.
So..I kept looking....

I spoke with a local gal who has a sewing business...however I did not find her very helpful...as I have a specific look in mind...and she was showing me dark, tweed like fabric.  And customer service skills were lacking...as I did not have her undivided attention...she kept leaving me to answer her phone....and when a guy came in to pick up a sail she had repaired...she walked away from me and got into a lengthy discussion with him about recovering cushions on his boat!   She pushed a piece of paper in my hand, with a website for fabrics and her business card...and that was about it!  Oh...and the cover would take two months before it would be ready.  And a $35 home visit fee was required for her to "look" at the chair.

So much for shopping local!  Well...I tried.  I contacted a wonderful lady on line...who was so helpful and when I shared my vision..she loved it!   We spoke on the phone for at least 30 minutes!  And I can pack up my current chair and seat and back cushion covers and send them off to her...and she can use them for a template no problem!  (since I'd have to spend $35 for a local visit...I can send my cover by Courier for about the same cost or less).

Since I'm a huge fan of Waverly fabrics...these are my picks...for the seat and back cushions...

For the skirt....

And canvas navy for the body of the chair and the piping....

If the chair looks half as amazing as I think it will...I'm considering matching slipcovers for the sofa and love seat as well! 

Mr. Seventies had planned to stain the front steps on Saturday...but rain was forecast for Sunday and today (need a few good days for the stain to cure) ....  so he gave the back door a fresh coat of paint after a good wipe down to remove any dirt and dust.  

I can't believe this weekend is Canada Day weekend!  And we don't even have the pool repaired...much less up and running!  In a "normal" season...it would be operational on Victoria Day weekend in May...and we would usually be swimming by the end of June.  Not going to happen this year.  Somewhere I saw a prediction we are supposed to have a hot, dry summer...I think that crystal ball was cloudy!  

Motoring to Nova Scotia later in the week..our oldest granddaughter is graduating high school!  I can't even believe where the years have gone!  Looking forward to seeing her walk across the stage and receive her diploma!

Osteoarthritis

Little off topic...but let's talk arthritis.  When most people think or talk about arthritis...they consider it an "old person's" issue.  And that is just not the case.

My struggle with osteoarthritis in my back began when I was still in my teens...although it took many years for a diagnosis and pain treatment.  For many years I was prescribed anti-inflammatories...and I used every available treatment at my disposal.  Physiotherapy, acupuncture, aqua fitness, massage therapy, over the counter pain mediation and injections...all which helped short term.

My previous doctor advised there was nothing more could be done.  After living and coping with chronic pain all my adult life...and reaching the point where I could no longer cope...our doctor retired and his predecessor is an amazing, caring and compassionate physician.  When discussing my medical situation he informed me, that we did in fact...have options.

My doctor explained fully my condition (which is genetic) and how severe and progressed the arthritis was.  He referred me to the Pain Management Centre..and after a few trials and tribulations with various pain meds...I finally saw positive results with one in particular.  For the most part...I now live a pain free life.  Living with chronic pain is exhausting...difficult enough when you are younger...but as I got older...life became unbearable.

Then my left knee starting giving me severe pain.  I went for x rays...and no surprise...my knees is arthritic as well.  Due to a heart issue...I cannot take anti-inflammatories.  I did some physio for a while, I keep walking to keep the knee lubricated...and when the pool is operational...the water will be a huge help.  During the winter months...I plan to join a local gym...where I can use the heated indoor pool and stationary bike...both recommended to help.

I also ordered a tens machine on Amazon...this one in fact.  It has great reviews..so what do I have to lose?  It arrived a couple of days ago...I've been using it twice daily.

 Everything needed comes in a nice zippered pouch...and it is super easy to use.  The pads themselves are re-useable...I also ordered 16 replacement pads...as they do lose their adhesiveness over time. 

So far, I am really pleased with it's performance.  And it is helping...my knee feels better today.   Some private insurance companies cover the purchase of a Tens machine...ours does not.  But it is a medical expense and can be claimed at tax time.  So there is that.  

And totally switching gears here...how adorable is this dachshund quilt?  A talented seamstress in Newfoundland quilted it..and I am the lucky person to purchase it!  The quality of workmanship is total perfection.  

Did I mention I gifted my daughter the quilt?  Not only is she a dachshund Mama...but she and her husband do plan to bless us with a grand baby someday...and won't this look amazing in a nursery?  Or even just as a keepsake!

Second Order Arrived

I was thrilled yesterday when my second order of Pioneer Woman linens arrived!

Look how pretty these dish towels are!  They are huge and super absorbent!  And love the vibrant colours!

 I couldn't resist ordering another pretty tablecloth...this one is even more gorgeous than in the photo!

Such a pretty table runner!   A beautiful runner is nice change from tablecloths and place mats!

And the napkins came back in stock...and only $3 for a set of four!!  Now that's a steal!!

And this is my first copy of her magazine!  Discovered it while shopping at a local supermarket!  Can't wait to sit on the deck and delve into it!!

While out browsing the other day...I came across some awesome farmhouse decor!  And you don't have to live in a farm house to enjoy it!

I love this cute bath tub...could be use to hold soaps or bath bombs...and who doesn't agree that Laundry Sucks?

Love these tin plates!!

I considered this scale..but it's a bit too "rustic" for my kitchen...by I'm crushing on it big time!

And I don't know what I love more...the General Store sign...or the bread box underneath!  Ever notice when you are not looking for something...you see a dozen or more of them?  Seeing bread boxes everywhere now...

It's raining here currently...but supposed to clear off and sunny this afternoon.  Will take my new magazine and enjoy the afternoon on the deck!!

Pots A Plenty...

The weather was beautiful here over the weekend...and the garden centres were jam packed!  It's been a very long, cold and wet spring...everyone is just itching to get their flower and vegetable gardens in...and planters filled, now that the risk of overnight frost is hopefully behind us.

We visited two of our favourite green houses...Mr. Seventies picked out six new perennial plants at the first one...and we purchased our annuals at the second one..begonias, pansies, petunias to name a few.

Yesterday afternoon, before hubby's Father's Day bar-b-que...we got busy filling our planters...

Please excuse the condition of the steps & decks...but we are holding off re-staining until the pool company comes to repair the pool!!  No sense in having them track across freshly stained areas...especially since we are uncertain how much disruption the repairs will be to the decks.

Liesel's ramp(s) (there is one off the pool deck as well) need to be restained.  I'm thinking I'll purchase a new outdoor rug...the current one is getting a bit worn around the edges. I'm on the fence about new chair cushions...they add a pop of colour..and are comfy...but such a pain as they need to be taken in at night.  Heavy dew or rain will soak them...so they are annoying to have to deal with.  I could purchase a deck box to store them in...but we already have two large deck boxes on the pool deck for the pool vacuum and pool chemicals.  Going to mull it over a while longer.....

We discovered when we cranked up the umbrella...it was broken!  Apparently a gust of wind caught it one afternoon...and tore it from the base (it obviously was not secured in)....and tossed it off the deck.  Mr. Seventies tried without success to repair it...so we chalked it up to lesson learned and ordered a new one...will pick it up hopefully later today.  It is on sale $10. cheaper...so there is that.  

Loving my little planter with the cute water tap...once the pansies fill in..it will be adorable.  All the planters required holes to be drilled in the bottoms for drainage.

My cute little stand is filling up with flowers...

Mr. Seventies picked up a flat of Salvia..these were my Mom's favourite annual flowers!  My Dad always planted them for her...and we planted these at the front walkway...nice to have a pop of red!

Liesel has a spa-di-cure appointment today and Mr. Seventies wants a few more annuals for the front gardens...so I see another trip for flowers in the works.  It's overcast and rain in the forecast..so no outside work will get done today.  

We are getting price quotes to have the driveway resurfaced this summer.  It needs to be levelled and a couple of layers of new asphalt laid.  When the city installed new drainage pipes...they tore up the end of our drive (the city owns the first so many feet)...and they did a terrible pave patch job!  We now have an incline at the end...when it should be flat.  The paving company will level everything out and that will take care of that.

Hope you are having an awesome day wherever you are!!

Wishing all Dads this Sunday a very.....

Old Becomes New Again...

Quick little redo today.  While spring cleaning cupboards the other day...I came across an oval plate..given to us as a wedding gift...all those years ago.  Mr. Seventies even remembers who gifted us with it!

I thought, after all these years..it was a shame it was stuck in a cabinet.  I took an old frame I had on hand outside and gave it three coats of paint (which I also had on hand).  And here is the end result..and how I intend to showcase the plate.

I have a spot in our master bedroom where Mr. Seventies is going to hang it this weekend.   

So excited my Pioneer Woman order arrived yesterday!!  Well....all most all of it...one set of the dinnerware is due to arrive Friday or Monday.  I am so pleased with the beauty and durability of the sets..goblets and gorgeous footed mugs!  I loaded everything in the dishwasher and once dry...put them in the cabinets!   I'm hoping the napkins come back in stock...but if not...my gal pal with the FB page I mentioned before, is going to Maine in a couple of weeks and has offered to pick me up a set!!  

Decor For The Family Room

Was out and about with my bestie the other day...we popped into Home Sense...as she was looking for a couple of items.

What I love about Home Sense is even when you go in with no plan or if you are looking for something in particular...you can usually find some awesome home decor.

Take these gorgeous cushions...for example...I love feather cushions...with zip off covers for easy laundering...and these new turquoise pair fit the bill! (and compliment Clara beautifully!!)

And who can resist a sweet bouquet of tulips?  Not me...these look and feel just like the real thing!

And speaking of cushions...fell in love with this hooked cushion..another nod to Clara! And can you see my new tin Antiques sign?   Used a 50% off coupon at Michaels.  And did you notice the new apple green lamps?  Luv, luv, luv them!  $40 for the pair...Kijiji!!!  They are like new!!

Here's a close up shot...it fits in the space perfectly.  

And are you ready for this?  Fall decor is already out at Michaels!!  Now fall is my favourite time of year...but June is really pushing it!  We haven't had any summer yet!!

But, I have to admit...the colours of these pumpkins made me swoon a bit!!  I am so crushing on these beautiful colours!!  I may just have to pick up a couple!!

Such a pretty fall wreath!!  Love the mix of florals and pine cones!! 

There is beautiful decor at Michaels right now!  I went in to pick up something specific...and came home without it!!  Shucks!!  Guess I will just have to make another visit!!

Little Obsessed? Maybe...

Happy Monday!!  Weekend plans never go as anticipated...our trip to the greenhouse was put on hold...it's still cool and unsettled weather here.

I have been a long time follower of a local gal on FB who is restoring her grandparents home stead...so she is partially to blame for my love of Pioneer Woman tableware and linens.  She is a huge fan of them as well...and introduced me to them a few months back!
In a previous post I shared the pretty chair pads and placemats...now I have added a beautiful checked tablecloth and a couple of tableware pieces...

These are two pieces sitting on the table...the pretty butter dish...and

Adorable creamer....and I've shared my luv of all things cow!

I've been wanting to update our tableware for some time now...and these pretty dishes stole my heart..I love the combination of turquoise and red.  Since they are smaller sets (12 piece) and not available locally...I ordered two sets on line.  I like the shape and size of the bowls...our current bowls are shallow and have a large lip...they are Pfaltzgraff...very durable and pretty...but sometimes you are just due for a change. 

Since the dinnerware sets do not come with mugs...I ordered two sets of mugs to complete the sets.

Be nice to have co-ordinating, pretty mugs instead of odds and sods of stained and chipped coffee cups!

And how pretty are these drinking goblets?  The reviews are very positive..they are not only pretty but super durable...so needed a couple of sets of these as well!

And no table is complete (in my opinion) without pretty napkins!  Unfortunately, these are out of stock online..so I'm on a waiting list for when they come in.  

So, that my latest obsession!   Cannot wait for everything to arrive (later in the week)..and I can set a pretty table for Sunday dinners!

A Few of My Favourite Things

While I was out and about the other day, browsed my favourite home decor store.  So many bright and pretty things this time of year...this fan look familiar?  That's because I purchased it!

How cute is this tricycle planter?  Could be used indoors for a plant...or outside for a pot of annuals!

Liesel asked that I be on the lookout for something special for her Dad for Father's Day...think this adorable mug fits the bill!!

Even a matching shower curtain!!  Our showers have glass doors...so curtains are not required...but these curtains are super cute!  Helps it has my favourite breed on them too!!

I am so crushing on this gorgeous Maple Leaf throw!!  Lots of Canada Day goodies available for our July 1st celebration!!  

While the weather has improved somewhat..showers in the forecast today.  Each year Vesey's Seeds holds a massive warehouse sale...Mr. Seventies plans to hit that sale today!  And tomorrow a trip to our favourite green house is in order...so lots of pretty blooms will be upcoming!

Have a great weekend!!