Trouble in Paradise?

I was shocked when I visited our Home Sense store a few days ago.  I knew the moment the doors parted and stepped inside....something was missing.   My first surprise...where is all the fall home decor?  As a rule....new seasonal inventory starts as soon as you get inside.  I stood there for a few minutes....blinking and not believing what I was taking in...the first aisle was displaying various canvas totes and bags?  Where was all the fall and (dare I say it) Halloween decor?
Certainly not show cased...or the first things I see.  My spidey senses were tingling....

Thinking I was over reacting (in my mind) I continued on....only to see shelves empty....

What's this?  More empty shelving?  This is just not something you see when shopping Home Sense. Now...some might think...maybe new stock coming in?  Usually, when I'm there...I'm half annoyed because every aisle I turn there is a staff member putting out new goods!  Supposedly, Home Sense gets new stock daily....or that is what I was told by an employee a few months ago.  I saw two cashiers and one employee on the floor....

I'm not sure what is supposed to be displayed here....but clearly...there is a bit of nothing....

Ahhh....found it!!  Err...what??  This is the seasonal decor section?  A bit lacking to say the least...reminded me of the remnants of a flea market....

And something I have never seen at Home Sense....dead floor space....areas of nothing..

I attempted to quash my fear but maybe things are not all that great in Camelot!!  And Winners apparently is rumoured to be in the same desolate situation...although I have not been in to check things out for myself. 

I would be very saddened if Home Sense/Winners are falling on hard times.  I'm going to do some sleuthing and check things out again in a few days....

To satisfy my need to see all things fall...I knew Michael's would not let me down.  And it didn't...

Their fall and Halloween decor are in great abundance.....and satisfied my obsession with pillows...

Which were on BOGO....and I was content just to see them...awesome opportunity for anyone wanting to switch from summer to fall...Mr Seventies would likely faint if I brought home more pillows...so I'm content with switching out pillow covers...

I'm waiting for ribbons to go on sale again...but might check out their summer floral...at 80% off it's worth a second look. 

While Liesel was being groomed yesterday...and traffic being tied up for miles on the route to her groomers (a new round about going in)...I decided to stay in the vicinity and popped into Lawton's Drug Store...which has an awesome giftware section...with everything 40% off.  I picked up some fall pieces for my new coffee table/trunk...two adorable mice carrying pumpkins and a red truckload of fall goodies.  My vintage girl and her doxies fit right in on the far right....

My friend messaged me last evening....she was unable to locate the dachshund canvas in Moncton, at Winners.  I so appreciate her taking the time to check for me....I did see it here a few weeks back...but that was before I knew I was preparing a nursery...dachshund style.  I'll keep a keen eye open now for sure.

Off to run errands today and meet a friend for coffee.  Wishing everyone a Happy Labor Day on Monday!  Have a great weekend!

New Blanket Box/Coffee Table

Remember a few days ago when I wrote about the blanket box I was crushing on...until they raised the price to include shipping?  Yesterday, I stopped in to the shop and asked to see it.  And wouldn't you know it...it was perfect in every way.  Exactly the size I was needing....fit in with my decor and new end tables...and I really wanted it.  In chatting with two sales people...I was having no luck in getting it for the original price...sans shipping.  I decided it wasn't meant to be and left a little broken hearted.

I realized when I was in the shop next door....I must have laid my car keys down in the previous shop..so I went back.  The sales girl approached me with my keys...and advised if I still wanted the blanket box...I could have it for the original price stated last week!  Of course, I did!  There was a reason I left my keys behind, right?  It was meant to be!  Perfect size and storage for extra throws and pillows!

The shop requested I send photos when I got it home (it fit in the SUV and my awesome son-in-law carried it in the house).  I sent this photo off...and the shop replied stating I had wonderful decorating skills, gave me a 20% off coupon for anything else I may purchase and put the photo on their FB page!  I was pleased to hear they liked my decor...it's just colours and textures I love.

Prior to stopping in to view the coffee trunk (that's what I'll call it) I drove to Value Village to drop off my old slipcovers. The young man who took the box gave me a 20% off my next purchase...no time like the present.  I haven't been in to Value Village in 2-3 months.  Glad I went in...look what I came across...doxie salt and pepper shakers in perfect condition for $3.99.

See this beautiful butter dish jogged my memory a bit...my daughter and her hubby use butter as opposed to margarine...and I thought this would be something they could use...

I was right, it was exactly what they were needing.  I paid $4.99 for it...so happy they love it.

And this table runner caught my eye...it will fit our kitchen table, when it is extended. Perfect colour for fall....it's folded over in the photo...it's 72" long...

I thought originally it may have come from Home Sense...but the tag states Pier 1!!  My all time favourite shop!!  $3.99 was the price tag...and everything I purchased was 20% off using the coupon!

It washed and pressed beautifully and looks brand new!  Can't wait to put it on my table!

Since I'm going to be decorating my grand baby's nursery...I saw this posted in a Dachshund group I, which I am a member of.  This canvas is located at Winners in Moncton...and my friend happens to be going to Moncton today!  She is going to see if it is still available and if so, pick it up for me.  Fingers crossed it is still there...

Liesel has a grooming appointment today...getting freshened up for fall!!  We have some rain coming tonight...and we really need it.  The lawns are pretty brown and crispy.  We are closing the pool this weekend, putting away the pool floats and putting deck furniture & rugs away.  Perfect time to do it...since this is a long weekend.  Schools start up here next week...where did the summer go?

New Slipcovers

It hasn't been that long since I had slipcovers made and in all honesty...they just weren't cutting it.  Firstly...the material was not made for slipcovers...nor was it holding up.  There were rips in the seams and the zipper on the corner of the sofa broke.  I don't sew....nor do I know anything about material...and I feel guidance in that area was lacking when I had them done.   The fabric I had chosen would be fine for drapes or bedding...but not for upholstery in a room that get's used daily.

Secondly, the seat covers were too big...so much so the seamstress sent batting to stuff in the covers.  Not a great solution.  It was just a matter of time before I got frustrated and fed up.

Last spring I began looking for experienced seamstresses or companies that could do custom slipcovers.  The first company I contacted presented themselves as Canadian....but I had suspicion they were located in China,  Turn around time for answers to my queries was minimum 24 hours...and responses came in the middle of the night.  At their request, numerous times I was asked to measure and re-measure my furniture.  I think I measured the furniture minimum 20 times.  And kept getting asked for more measurements!   Finally I had enough and said thanks but no thanks.

Then I found Suzy Slipcovers (in Ontario) and I would receive timely answers to my questions, guidance on which fabric is best for slipcovers, proper measuring and the amount of time it would take from start to completion (about two weeks).    The slipcovers arrived a few days ago...and I couldn't be more pleased!  They fit like the seamstress had been in my home and did the measuring...the covers fit perfect!  She is really, really good at making slipcovers!

The fabric I ordered is a soft canvas material...highly suitable for daily use, pets and wash and wear!  Slipcovers were made for the love seat, chair and sofa....

I love the soft, casual look of slipcovers....they slip on with ease...no tugging or pulling required...

Very happy to freshen up the love seat as well...I'm so glad I did....again covers fit to perfection....

For the first time, I am 100% happy with these covers.  Even the original slipcovers were not of this fabric quality.....

I have began to gather up items for my potato basket arrangement...Michaels are having BOGO on their fall flowers and 80% off summer flowers.  The green squares are blocks of styrofoam...I'll either wedge them to the bottom of the basket or use a drop of hot glue to secure them.  I still need to pick up a few more things and ribbon for bows....

As I was heading into Superstore the other day I spotted this pumpkin trio....maybe a cute addition to the front step this fall...

And speaking of fall, we've had some fall temps the last few days.  Today is supposed to be 25 degrees and sunny...plan to take full advantage of the beautiful day!

Little Touch of Fall in the Air

Our temperatures have dropped....especially overnight.  We keep the solar blanket on the pool at night...we may get a few more dips in before we close it for the season.
We've enjoyed the pool immensely this summer with hot, humid and dry weather.

When the weather changes...it's time to focus on the inside now.  I hope to gather up my fall decor and pillows....they are sort of tucked away here and there.  My first plan of action is to pick up a couple more plastic tote bins...so that I am able to have everything in one spot when not in use.

I plan to hit up Michael's and Dollarama today....remember my antique potato basket?  I think I could put together an awesome (and large) fall arrangement.  

Ribbons are BOGO at Michael's currently....I picked up two rolls so far...I may pick up a couple more, since one roll will make one bow.

The gardens have supplied beautiful flowers for weeks now....I picked a pretty fall bouquet...

Mr. Seventies planted cat nip and since our neighbours have a new feline...we have some drying in the storage shed,  I couldn't understand why he planted cat nip...he advised bees love it!  And we need our bees hard at work.  I have some little bags left over from making lavender sachets....I'll put together a few bags for Ginger...the neighbour's new kitty.  Not sure why Liesel loves cat nip too...but she would rip the sachet apart...and we've have dried cat nip everywhere.  Depending on how many bags I'm able to put together...if there are a number of them I'm going to check with our Humane Society and see if they can be donated for the cats and kittens in their care. 

And one little rant!  I've been considering getting a wooden blank box or storage box for a coffee table.  I miss having one...to place things on if nothing else.  I found one...but it's over an hour away...so I checked one on a particular store's website.  I've noticed this store does this frequently...a wooden crate coffee table was priced at $295...delivery extra.  I don't require delivery...it will fit in the SUV.  Currently, they are running a "sale"...offering "free delivery".  The price of the crate currently is $349.  They've increased the price to accommodate the so called free delivery offer.  So annoys me.  If I were to purchase one...I want to pay the $295...without the free shipping.  If I have time...I'm going to drop in today.  

Our SUV is going back in the garage sometime this week....we need two new gas tanks (apparently it has two).  Our mechanic ordered the parts required....it will be great to get that work completed.

And the best news of all...we are going to be grandparents again!  Our daughter and hubby are expecting their first baby, after a number of challenges.  Due to those challenges, she is required to have numerous scans and ultra sounds...some are performed here...another at the IWK in Halifax.  But to date, everything is progressing perfectly.  I truly believe in the power of prayer...

And guess who gets to decorate the nursery?  If you guessed me...you would be right!  We've decided to do the room in, what else...dachshund theme.  Remember the quilt I had previously given them?

It's perfect crib size...and is my starting off point.  Won't begin the nursery until after Christmas...I have a lot of ideas swirling around in my head...not to mention a list of wants on the go.

Our grand daughter, Grace had a great visit with us last week.  The house feels so quiet...settling into our slower routines.  It's darker so much earlier in the evenings now...I'm okay with that.  Fall to Christmas is my absolute favourite time of year!  Cool, crisp days..the gorgeous colours Ma Nature gives us, Pumpkin Spice everywhere...and the smell of fresh apples!  What's not to love??

Dog Days of Summer

That is what we call this time of year!

Summer is winding down...and I'm okay with that.  It's been very hot and humid here the last few days and today is going to be a swelter.   Then temps are going to cool down....still nice days...but not the heat and humidity.

My grandchildren visited and we thoroughly enjoyed a day of fun and sun before they headed home to prepare for community college, junior high and elementary school!

I am ready for the crisp, cool days of fall, pumpkin spice and cuddly, soft throws.  Fall to Christmas is my favourite time of year...beautiful drives to take in the splashes of colour Mother Nature gives our trees, fresh apples and fall decor.  I can't wait to tackle the family room...I have a few changes coming.

Until then, enjoy this beautiful time of year! 

Parade Day

Like most places, we have an exhibition week...and here it is geared around harness racing.  The main event is held tomorrow night...with the Gold Cup and Saucer horse race.  Not my cup of tea...but many use this week as an opportunity to to get together with family, begin summer vacations and so on.

Today...is the "Gold Cup and Saucer Parade"...its the largest event in Atlantic Canada and the largest parade east of Montreal.  Thousands of parade watchers will line the streets of Charlottetown...we went faithfully for years.  We could usually find a place to park...but were required to walk a number of blocks....carrying fold up lawn chairs.

Since the parade is televised...if I choose to watch it...that will be the way I will take it in.  Traffic is snarled before and after the parade...any errands I need to do will be done after lunch.  Families use this day to come into the city to watch the parade, shop for school items and take in the rides at the event grounds.

Our hot weather and humidity has returned...but I'm not complaining.  One of our grand daughters is coming to spend a few days with us next week...we are really looking forward to her visit.

A couple of nights ago...I couldn't find Liesel in her usual spots.  I went into the "babies" room...and found her on guard sitting in the dark.  She would not budge...whoever said dachshunds aren't stubborn....was wrong...she takes her caretaker role serious.

I plan to sit on the patio deck for most of the day and enjoy this gorgeous weather!  Happy weekend all!

Enjoyable Weekend

Happy Monday!!  I hope your weekend was enjoyable!  We had a fun weekend with Mr. Seventies brother and his wife visiting from Nova Scotia!

Nothing better than spending a couple of days pools side and great barbecues with fresh veggies from the garden,  The weather was forecast not to be all that great....but Friday evening and Saturday both proved the forecast wrong....much to our delight.

Saturday evening we dined out at the Beach House Restaurant, in Cavendish....and everyone was required to take the mandatory lobster photo!  Yep, this is me and I don't even like lobster....hahaha...

Saturday evening amid thundershowers and lightening we took in a play at the Watermark Theatre in North Rustico.  Very talented actors and actresses...the concept of the play was a young man engaged to three different flight attendants....who happen to all be at his Paris apartment....at the same time.  The antics that followed were comical...we thoroughly enjoyed the production.

Before noon on Sunday, my sister-in-law and I visited the downtown market here in Charlottetown...vendors lined both sides of the street...I snapped a few photos to share....

one of my favourite types of paintings are done by knife edge artists.....and this one is no exception...I love the 3D effect of the canvases.....

A sure sign of things to come....

This vendor is opening up a permanent shop in the downtown area...it's called the Leather Lather.  He produces amazing smelling shave cream and horse hair brushes for application....Mr. Seventies may benefit from these creative and appealing products...

Just one of the many food vendors at the market...this booth sells organic vegetables....

I didn't take photos of each vendor...there is definitely something for everyone...from goat's milk soap to leather bags to delicious sweets and hand knitted products. 

We ended the weekend with a delicious barbecue, organic potatoes, yellow beans and carrots from our vegetable garden and a choice of lemon or butterscotch pie for dessert.  Our daughter and her husband joined us as well and caught up on everyone's news!

An enjoyable weekend indeed.  I'll leave you with a sneak peek at an upcoming project in the works....

I'll share more when everything is completed!  In the meantime...have an awesome Monday!!

Happy Friday!!

The sun is out...and with it we have humidity.  I see a few dips in the pool will be required.  

I was out and about the other day...and took a quick peruse around a could of stores...I'm crushing big time on this truck!  I have an empty red one I use at Christmas...but this one is all decked out for fall..

An abundance of pumpkins!  I need to wait and go through my fall goodies...see if I need another one or two.  I miss a coffee table!  Currently using a wicker trunk...which I love...but I prefer something a bit larger...not too much....but keeping my eyes open for just the right one.

I so wish my nephew and his wife lived closer...at least in the Maritimes!  They are in Ottawa...and chances of this adorable piece making is safely through the mail...are slim. They are parents to two French Bulldogs...I've mentioned them before,  How awesome is this treat jar?  I know Allison would love it.  Mr. Seventies has promised we can take a road trip to Ottawa next year...so if we do...I'll be going with a trunk full of goodies!!

I'll share a beautiful bouquet Mr. Seventies picked from our gardens.....

Miss Liesel has turned into quite the den mother....she checks on the "babies" 2-3 times each day.

She's pretty smitten with them....

Wishing you a great weekend!  We have tickets to see a play at Watermark Theatre in Rustico...will dine out and then enjoy the show.   Looking forward to seeing it...we saw a great show last year...this one won't disappoint either.  

Heavenly Lavender

There is nothing more soothing than the beautiful aroma of lavender!  My first bouquet has been drying out the last number of days...and was ready for sachets...

I hand stripped the lavender into a bowl...

Using a small measuring cup....I filled two sachet bags.  These are the last remaining bags I have...(from Michaels on clearance a few years ago).  These sachets  are for my daughters....

Mr. Seventies picked a second bouquet of lavender and it smells amazing also.   When dried...I plan to get a couple more sachets...will check Michaels for another great deal....

And this is a gorgeous bouquet Mr Seventies picked last evening....the colours are beautiful...

nothing compares to fresh cut flowers! We have an assortment of lilies in various colours in our gardens...

Black Eyed Susans will be ready soon...they are on of my favourite flowers!

It's going to be a beautiful day here on the Island!  Hope you enjoy the same!

Industrial Floor Lamp

While I was at an appointment yesterday, Mr. Seventies put the floor lamp together!  It would have been helpful if instructions were included...but he managed to figure it out!  One reviewer thanked the company for including the bulbs!  No bulbs came with mine...but I'm still lovin' it!

And speaking of bulbs, the salesclerk in Home Depot showed me the exact replica of Edison bulbs...but much cheaper.  These bulbs were sold three in a package...for $19.99. The brand name, same bulbs sold separately for $34.95 to purchase three.  

I will take another photo at dusk when it is turned on. 

Remember this table I showed the other day?  Well, I purchased it.  It matches the style of the other end tables and the drawer is handy for chargers, remotes, etc.  When I'm ready to show the room, decked out a bit for fall...I take more photos. 

And I met the gal selling the baby basket!  Her first potential buyer was a no-show and I was next in line!  It will be a perfect fit for my next reborn doll.  Yes, there will be another...don't judge.

A little break from the heat today...its overcast...but still humid.  Heat records were broken yesterday...and the humidex value was up around 38-39 degrees!  Many dips in the pool yesterday...Liesel had a couple of swims to cool off as well.

No complaints about the heat though...winters are long and miserable...so we're going to enjoy this beautiful Island weather while we have it!