{Coastal Nest}

Ode to SeaWorthy....

2012-01-17T11:37:00.000-08:00

as some of you may, or may not know..I had a sweet little space up in Snohomish, she was hip and happening ..and well, took over my life for a while.

I loved her, and she loved me..SeaWorthy wanted me to run wild across the land near and far. Cmon, SeaWorthy would whisper..the kids are at school, that husband of yours is at work and weve got the whole day!

we had a blast, her and I..finding the most fun in the dustiest and mustiest of spaces..Carrying on with the real pickers of the harbor..which, to be for realz..is a motley crew, for sure..we said ALRIGHT when the husband took a big interest and thought it would be fun to hang..so it was a threesome..he I and ol SeaWorthy..

but somewhere between Aberdeen and Snohomish we quit talking..the long rides in the truck were starting to take its toll on ol SeaWorthy..she got irritated when she had to sit in the truck for 3 hours each way, sometimes even more..We tried to talk her out of her funk, Steve and I..but it was to no avail. SeaWorthy was out of gas and didnt want to play anymore..I just cant do it full time, Lisa..she said to me one day..SeaWorthy was really sad and could hardly look at me once those words came out of her mouth.,, Steve, I think was relieved..The time and effort she was taking out of the family were starting to show..

The deed was done..we were no more a threesome..I tried to hang on to the fun..I really did..She whispered to me that she would love to come out and play at some vintage shows, but she just couldnt keep on the road or keep up the pace..I agreed and told her it would be alright..

We had so much fun..we both agreed as we wiped off our tear stained cheeks..

We can go online!!..she said with a bit of a uptick in her voice..alright, I told her, hesitantly..we have made an etsy shop together..to try and see if we cant keep the gig alive..

Time will tell, I told her with a smile..so for now shes living in my dining room..shes got alot of shat, that seaworthy girl..but I like her close to home. I think she dosent mind it either..

If you are in need of some of her stuff, give me a holler..I will get ahold of her for you..She told me she knows I will never give it up..I agreed.

But for now, shes got her feet up..loving the view shes got of all the snow outside and the kids playing in the yard..

I love her so..that girl..

Here she is on Etsy...

15 years ago..

2012-01-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

Wow..15 years? REally? It is ever so amazing how so many days can roll into weeks, months and then years. I remember every minute.

The dinosaur expertise phase...the absolute drawing phase..not with color crayons..nope. Not Ryan..pen and ink. only. and serious, oh my...

He was and still is the easiest out of all 3 of my beautiful children. The perfect first born.. He is passionate about alot of things, school, not being one of them, but he goes happily and willingly..because of one thing...

Youve got it...

Band..I love him for it..his new obsession along with the constant drum drum drumming in his upstairs bedroom {with a small, teeny tiny dose of insulation} so his mother can hear him CLEARLY.. is a double base pedal..because all the cool kids have one..{{{holy drumming, reader..}}}

He is also begun swimming on the Mens high school team. He is like a fish..a fast, happy fish..amazing.

Im overjoyed..every day, by this little/large man we have raised. Happy, healthy, wealthy (not so much) and wise..(we are working on it, i promise)

He is AWESOME..

He is 15..

He is all that is what I dreamed of in a son..

Thank you for you, Ryan..

mama loves you! Happy Birthday :)

All up to the moon and the stars and all twirly whirly and then all the way back down again..and into your heart.

xxoo

I raise my glass to you....

2011-12-31T14:16:00.000-08:00

Absolutely

ALL

The

BEST

to you and yours!

Cheers, friends

Lisa

Beach Vintage..be still my heart..

2011-12-28T09:10:00.000-08:00

Keep Clam..

Sun Screen

Longboard

Mermaids

Fun with Daddy...

no gifts, please...?

2011-12-27T11:43:00.000-08:00

My man, he makes me laugh, cry and get all choked up inside..

We agreed to no buy any gifts for eachother this year..we even did our secret handshake..

But, oh no..

Not him..

He goes and gets me the most amazing camera that I could even imagine..

Canon Rebel T3..with a big ol lense..I know not where to even start.

He is such a good hubby..I love him awful!

I cannot even figure out how to turn it on yet..well..I can turn it on, but..

I will be on my way to super duper photo-girl stardom (..in about 6 months..)

I need a class!

..so full up on love (and lust) for my crazy grey haired man..

Thank you MacDaddy..

I love you to the moon and back.

do you do it up big??

2011-12-21T14:52:00.000-08:00

Its that time!

The time I love.....don't get me wrong, I do love finding that perfect, splendorous present that everyone dreams of receiving from someone special...

I crave a specially wrapped gift more than anything!

I think that the packaging is almost the best part. I have been perfectly OVERDOING my sweet mamas Christmas gift as long as I can remember...I love love love to spoil her rotton. My kids too, but I think its different....

They love to rip and tear and see whats inside, who gives a rip about what the paper or the packaging looks like, I WANT THE LOOT!

{who can blame the little sweethearts?}

I am, however....getting quite sick of this bakers twine...so I will be using something completely different and fun..

Merry wrapping, you wonderful splendid strangers that are my friends

I will be having a toddy and going for it

TONIGHT!!

coastal christmas...oh my..

2011-12-17T08:02:00.000-08:00

simple and easy, from my yard type of decorating..

I realllllllly love this!!

Toy Story...

2011-12-16T07:45:00.000-08:00

Buzz and Woody have been a part of this house. Everyone has grown up on the fun loving toys from Andys room.

I am sure you might have a little bit of this at your house, right? I about grabbed my children and left #3, I was so irritated at the whole scary scary part of the incinerator scene..but we stayed-kids covering their own eyes..It all ended well and once in a while I find a potatoe head ear, or another part of the friendly bunch and my heart smiles.. Buzz and Woody..sigh..

Imagine my surprise when I ran across this the other day....Evidentally the boys from Andys room have also grown up! I hear that Woody and Jessie have split up, he quit paying his child support for the 2 little twin cowboys when he saw a few unexplainable texts from his best friend...

All kidding aside, that pinterest is a place to find some strange and fun stuff to share!

Dont worry, Buzz and Woody are still good toys..

Christmas CoCkTaiLs....mmmm..mm...mmmm!

2011-12-15T09:38:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing that this mama likes, its a great cocktail....

Call me a boozer, lush..what have you, just dont call me late for the liquid...

This time of year, I especially enjoy a good eggnog, or Tom and Jerry..

You should taste test a few of these beautiful drinks..

There is nothing I love better than Christmas eve, coming home from Midnight Mass, children in pjs then up to bed..My husband with his feet up, or possibly putting together a lego or other toy..the fireplace (insert) a glowing and the Christmas music playing softly in the back ground, mixing us and serving a toddy to the Daddy I love the most, whispering to eachother what a lovely life we have in this big old house together, counting our blessings... while the kids try to get to sleep upstairs...oohhhh, I am getting excited for Christmas!

xxoo

Christmas on Pinterest..

2011-12-14T10:07:00.000-08:00

as most of you know, the pinterest craze has hit nearly 100% of us excellent time wasters..can you BELIEVE this little darling?

myself being one of them, here is some holiday decor that kinda made me pause..

Its really not me, but man oh man, do you crave, or what?

Merry Christmas!

love....

2011-12-06T21:28:00.001-08:00

no truer words have been spoken..

Christmas cookies 101

2011-12-01T07:26:00.001-08:00

Hi! Its that time of year again....

everyone posts these drop dead gorgeous perfectly decorated sugar cookies..

I love to look at them, they are a site to behold and very much a masterpiece and work of art from their maker...

But the best ones are made with the heart, and the sweet little hands that will be all grown up much sooner than I want.

We will be rolling out our lovely, smudgy, sparkley sticky perfectly perfect

cookies very very soon!

I hope your going to do the same!

(Ryan is doing excellent, thanks for all the virtual hugs and prayers for his quick healing!!)

xxoo

tested..

2011-11-26T08:04:00.001-08:00

It has been the week from hell.

Our oldest wonderchild has been very sick.

Hospital sick.

..for 4 long days. I didnt think that it was so stressful when we were there, but now that we are finally home, well..I feel like I have been run over and back by a few big trucks.

Crazy how your body holds up under stress..and even more interesting how it shuts itself right off when it knows its alright to exhale.. felt like I have been holding my breath for a week.

Ryan is feeling better, we still have alot to take care of, but he is on his way to recovery.

I hope everyone had a great thanksgiving..

we have alot to be thankful for..

Packin up!

2011-10-12T23:26:00.000-07:00

Its going to be a party..

fo sho!

We have been creating and cleaning and packing..oh yes, the packing has begun.

Ruffles and Rust

will be a fun and exciting place to be, if you are near the Monroe Fairgrounds, and you are a fan of the vintage treasure hunt..well..you best not miss this show!

We have luggage packed full of enticing and surprising finds from far and near..

So, cmon!!

Grab your favorite girlfriend or boyfriend and head on out

Friday night is a fun event and all day Saturday.

Evergreen State Fairgrounds, Monroe Wa

THERE

OR..

be.................................sad!

xxoo

:0)

the rain cometh...yeah!

2011-10-03T10:32:00.000-07:00

I know that some people just have such a hard time with rain.

maybe that could have been us...yesterday....with the downpour we suffered while having my DeLuxe junk gabage sale . It deluged. those big volumptious raindrops that get you soaked to the bone in like 3 minutes flat.

It was hysterical, really..my hubby and I in the madcap race to get the shat covered up.

It didnt work..everything got soaked.

I secretly crave it. Whether my junque got wet or not.

We just need to get new wiper blades.. then we will be in business..

becaue mama hates it when she cannot see while driving..

hows it going in your corner of the world?

I am enjoying a little wet rainy quite monday..

and so it begins...yay!!

August, really??

2011-08-01T09:05:00.000-07:00

We shall make the most of our last month before school starts..

I am happy to report we are having great weather this morning, with a full sky of blue on the list for today!

sooner than later the kids will be back and I will be at home all by my lonesome..

wow..but for now, every child in my house is fast asleep, its approaching the 9am hour..lady bed heads!! ( I love it..)

Happy summer, people!!'

I think she might have arrived here in Washington~

Shall we??

2011-07-27T11:43:00.000-07:00

Ill make these.....

meet me here...

or here....

or better yet...here~

My MagNifiCenT Middle!

2011-07-24T09:37:00.000-07:00

Not a finer boy throughout the land

I say to myself when this love holds my hand.

Blue eyes big smile, cant you stay small, for more than a while?

These birthdays seem to fly right by, your mama says with a sigh.

Finn Patrick you will not quite know how I really love you so.

Happy Birthday my dimpled hon, the sweet and perfect

middle one!!

I love love love love love you..

to infinity and beyond!

Mama xoxoxoxo

Ruby Beach..my corner of the world..

2011-07-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

Wow..

First off I have to say THANK YOU for all of your awesome lovely comments from my last post. You gals are so sweet to me! The Fresh Cottage Magazine article was more than amazing. I couldnt believe how many pages it was, how fantastic the photos were and the lovely words that were written..It was awesome! We are very blessed.

It was a phenominal 4th of July had all the family out, the sky was blue and the company, food and festivities were so perfect. We decided to take a little road trip today..

Our Coastal Nest Cottage is in Pacific Beach, which is the gateway to the Olympic Penninsula, so we opened the gate! Ruby beach is 1 1/2 hours drive from our front door.

I cannot even describe how it was. These photos do a good job, but...not really...

There was so much beauty around us.

Jaw dropping.

awe inspiring.

You should really come out here..

We have dates available..Check it out!!

www.vrbo.com/358099

www.vrbo.com/319730

...FRESH COTTAGE...

2011-05-25T22:26:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone..

These are the photos of our sweet little Cottage, Coastal Nest..Fortunate to have a nice spread in Fresh Cottage..

Im still in shock. REaLLy!!

You could come and stay..ReALLy!!

Here is the link..we have Another swell little cottage, too..

www.vrbo.com/319730

www.vrbo.com/358099

Check it out! A relaxing weekend, or week..might be fun at the beach!

Have you ever been to Washington? Pacific Beach is like the show Northern Exposure..remember that one? The natural beauty here is to die for. Rustic jagged coastlines are waiting for you to explore..Olympic National Park and their beautiful rain forests..you wont believe it!

Then come home to this cozy cottage..

Alright Im starting to sound like a commercial..yuck.

I think this is my favorite photo, the sign I painted front and center, with our bouquet of driftwood and the lifering..LOVE! Keep it simple.

My daddy made the "we have crabs" sign and the sweet little kitchen island..

This is another favorite, the shell display box with my Wendy Addison German glass glitter letters..(the A is actually a V turned upside down..) pretty SMART, huh??!! Would you ever have noticed?

The nautical bedroom, love love love..vintage boat flags+vintage shutters=great headboard!

our estate sale sofa..all dressed up with her drop cloth slipcover..LOVE..and easy to clean, throw in the wash~

Coastal Nest Cottage has my heart, completely..Steve and I did everything in this remodel ourselves. Well, we did hire an electrician..

Im a proud Mama..and the Daddy loves this publicity, too..but hes a shy one..

Thanks for stopping by..If you want to vacation here, or at our Saltwater Cottage, check out the links up near the top..we would LoVe to have you!

Lisa

xxoo

Our little baby....Saltwater...TaDa!!

2011-05-21T18:59:00.000-07:00

Here she is..There are not alot of words right now..

I am suffering from remodel exhaustion..

we have worked on this cottage for 2 months straight..everyday..

Im am going to stay away from any paintbrushes for a while. My hand is a crumpled up nub..a paintbrush fits in it perfectly, I think its frozen into place...

These were taken on the fly, I apologize..I will take better photos soon.

Thanks for stickin with me, peeps..

Steve and I are going to take a quick day off.

Ha ha ha ha!!!!

Here is the link on the VRBO, just in case you want to come for a weekend, week or heck, come on out for a month if you want to!

http://www.vrbo.com/358099

.............................................

Oh, My word....I almost forgot to mention this...!!

FRESH COTTAGE is on News stands right now..

We have a 12 page spread of Coastal Nest Cottage inside..

WOOOOOOOOT!!

Check it out!

500 posts and a little cottage renovation...

2011-03-29T08:59:00.000-07:00

Hi, Reader..I am sure you are interested in all things Coastal Nest and every little aspect of my life on the coast...NOT..BUT..

I thought I would show you what has gotten me all fired up..Not ONLY ..yes I said..

NOT ONLY have I written 500 posts of complete and utter nonsense on this blog, and you..my dear reader, have stuck with me (have you?? )

through thick and thin, but...we got a cottage dropped in our laps this weekend.

literally..

We were flabbergasted when we got a phone call this last weekend about our good ol beach neighbor wanting to sell.

Steve and I kind of freaked out a little bit, no..ALOT.. and then decided, what the heck..

LETS GO FOR IT!

This (almost) darling little 2 bedroom cottage is ours.

As you can see, it has been through a little renovation, so its not as bad as the Coastal Nest Cottage was when we purchased her, but its still not up to snuff.

She will be up and ready for summer fun by mid May..

We are mostly pumped to start another project that we can work on together..and my creative juices are just a flowing!

That kitchen will get a re-do, all paint will be new, furnishings..dont get me started..

Its going to be a darling little place soon enough.

If your interested in renting for a summer weekend give me a shout out, or go here..

www.vrbo.com/319730

The best thing about it...

Its RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET from this little darling of Pacific Beach!

(oh, and by the way, COASTAL NEST COTTAGE will be a FEATURE in Cottages and Cabins..May issue) Lord have mercy!!

WOOOOOOOOT!

--all the best to you, my dear reader..thanks for stickin around..

More fun and adventures, coming up!

xxoo

Lisa

Ruffles and Rust Square...

2011-03-22T10:05:00.000-07:00

If you are near Snohomish..

stop by,

There is plenty to see..

The Grand Opening is set for

April 2..

Seaworthy Girl..

Aye...St Patty..

2011-03-17T07:37:00.000-07:00

May you live a long life

Full of gladness and health,

With pockets full of gold

As the least of you wealth.

May the dreams you hold dearest,

Be those which come true,

The kindness you spread,

Keep returning to you.

Tis a beautiful Day

Happy St Pats!

The McElliotts

beautiful browns

2011-03-07T07:44:00.000-08:00

Guilt...and the fear of flying..

2011-03-05T11:18:00.000-08:00

I carry mine around in a handbag from the Walmarts..

You see, I have worked the "Family Business" my whole entire married life, PLuS a few years..

about 23 to be exact.HALF my whole life.. I live and breath and LOVE all things Grand Heron.

We have been through so much together as a family..My parents could not be ANY better than they are.

My brother and sister either..

It has been such a long and drawn out few years..If you are a reader of mine, then you know how the devastation of a 100 year storm completely annihilated our beautiful historic Masonic Temple building that housed the Grand Heron. This, for us, was nothing short of a horrific death to each one of us. Including my children and each and every niece and nephew.

Then there is the R word. For those of you in the business of ANY small business, Recession is a true and ugly thing, and he is alive and well --still wallowing around in his dirty t-shirt, lazing on the couch and mostly making a random appearance on business days here and there. Don't get me wrong, business is good.for a while it was just horrid.. Since we have moved back and have such a lovely gorgeous storefront again we are busy... But, it is something that cannot be ignored. I, for one, am not going to be the thing that makes or breaks a day. Although that's no matter for my sweet mama. But business is business, right? Its not personal.

So, I have stepped of of the path..

That path that has been the best path in my life....and it is very scary to try and do something different that will allow me to make money..that ugly 5 letter word that we ALL have to have. I have the support of my awesome partner who is my biggest and best fan. He has all the faith in the world in me, which also makes me terrified. But that's not even my biggest fear. I feel so guilty about leaving my job with my family. I know I have the blessing of my Mom and Dad, but theres something that just wont quit gnawing at the back of my mind saying go back and be a good daughter. Take care of business like you are suppose to.

Here I sit, trying to get a handle on the new while trying to settle down my guilty mind. Am I such a person that can just ignore it? No. my family is the world to me. My parents have done everything possible to grow up their kids to be wonderful people to be supportive and giving..and now I am doing the exact opposite. I am going to have to find a way to make this all work..

But for now, this guilt is perfectly placed in my handbag. I will carry it until I figure a place to put it.

Maybe in an urn on my mantle??

He can eat his weight in crab....a repost from last years event.......

2011-02-25T07:56:00.000-08:00

Its that time again folks..

This Saturday, directly after work we will be heading out to Ocosta to the 450th annual (not really) Ocosta Booster Club Crab Feed. The mailman can barely get his mailman uniform off fast enough..I am to stand at the ready, car keys and cash in hand, with the van going.

Not really.--really.

This is my mans FaVoRiTe Holiday.

Here are some photos I took last year.I thought this was a funny photo of the kids, they are in charge of spaghetti and bread. As you can see, only the ADULT can handle the doling out of the crab.HA!

Other crab fans, one, sorrily not with us anymore. As you can see, BobVilla is sharing a toast.

Thanking the Crabbers and all their hard work, and praising the School for such a sucessful event.

and the beer gods, for keepin it sooooo cold.

Ocosta Booster Club Crab Feed

Ocosta Rec Hall

All Day and Night This Saturday..

be there or be square....

Fun times.

Adventures in FUN!

2011-02-12T08:18:00.000-08:00

Print...for you and all of your friends....then come, I guarantee you will have a blast!

cozy in the eaves................

2011-02-02T19:25:00.001-08:00

I think I have told you, I live in a vintage 1926 english tudor home..

..with an 18-12 pitch..for those of you who do not live with a "roofer" or..FORMER roofer..
that is for every 12 inches it goes up 18 inches..steeeeeep!
I also grew up in an english tudor home..(thanks mom and dad)
I shared a room with slanted walls and built ins with this little toe headed sister..
we had matching beautiful antique twin sleigh beds my mom got while...junking..can you believe it? Iwill have to say, I learned from the best..the BEST.. I remember them coming out of the Emerson Hotel in beautiful downtown Hoquiam..for lack of a better word, they were covered with what I would now call that fleck paint..comes in a can. It must have been the rage back then to hop up your old furniture with a new cote, you know...make it look "modern"
Needless to say, they were stripped and stained back to the beauty they were meant to be..for her little girls..
The beds are still in that room, I should go and photo my parents house..so awesome..
Im not really sure what is going on in this bedroom, but it fit the title..
hello dreamy scritchy& scratchy old siding...I adore you..

this is not a photo of our room, but it could almost be..
Im so lucky to sleep in my own slanty walled bedroom..cozy...
and here is another sweet place, if you have to be somewhere, why not in the eaves?

Go NAVY...

2011-01-28T10:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday, Mates!

my fantastical nautical file..

weheartit.com

Dropcloth slipcover.....the chair edition..

2011-01-26T20:42:00.000-08:00

Hello there internet girlzz. This is, as you can see, a chair. A bare chair..all cold and shivery and alone. Shes been asking for a new dress for sometime now. Begging, actually. I gave in..I couldnt stand to see her, sitting there..with that green toile get up. They had drifted apart, I think it was some time after September of last year. She wanted space, toile wanted to lay around and look dingey and sad all over chair. She thought he was depressed, he thought she was straying with the remnants of "party boy" over there "the couch" she lovingly called him..

It was true, chair was in love, not with couch, no..with drop cloth..he was from across the tracks..He laughs, and recalls the days when he lived at Home Depot..Crazy times...he says with a gleam in his eye..I was hard and crispy back then..but a good hot wash or two in the front loader and lots of downey have softened me up, Ive changed, he says, lying (his type of kneeling) on the floor. Ill be good to you, I will take care of you and cover you from sand and beach house hyjinx..I promise..

He made his move, he was all over lil chair in a matter of minutes, makin his move, slipping his

perfectly imperfect self into all her right places...

Oh, my goodness, chair whispered into dropcloths ear..what will shelly and the other girls at the table think?.....It dosent matter baby, we are so good together..

Just then, the room fell silent..a hop up onto the chair and everyone knew the place wouldnt be the same.....Pillows..ghasp..Theres a new style in town..

of the brown striped kind..

The two old ladies in the corner just laughed and blushed, remembering...remembering of the first time....

and they all lived happily ever after....and looked great doing it...

--------

you didnt know I use to write for Nikki and Victor, did you..

read even more FUN WITH DROPCLOTHS down here...

http://coastalnest.blogspot.com/2009/01/dropcloth-curtainsa-tutorial-of-sorts.html

http://coastalnest.blogspot.com/2009/08/dropcloth-slipcover-sofathe-lovesong.html

Excuse me while I gush....

2011-01-25T09:03:00.000-08:00

My sweet little darling is 6 years old today...

Never ever would I have dreamed having a little girl could be such a sweet addition to life.

Born 8 years after her oldest brother and a short 18 months after her younger, she has fit right in, and imagine...

wrapped us ALL around her teeny little fingers..

Reagan Marie

My brown eyed fawn..

Im so happy you are a confident young lady..

and the apple of your Daddys eye.

by far the smallest little thing I gave birth to at 6.4..compare that to Finn at a whopping 10 lbs..

Two peas in a pod, nonetheless..

(this photo melts my mommy heart!)

You have rounded out this family perfectly..

Thank you for your sweet disposition and perfectly persistant attitude.

you, my dumpling, are sure to go far in this world..

Happy 6th Birthday

to our little angel--

xxoo

mama (and daddy, too)

is this a dream?

2011-01-20T07:36:00.000-08:00

I saw this on the inter webs...

I dream of it being filled with beauty like this....

-and the lady of the house, well.....,shes preparing for a little party..

fun pictures from

here...

Think Pink....?

2011-01-15T08:30:00.000-08:00

So, 2011s color of the year...hmm, I really love the color, especially ON anyone. Take my word, you look beautiful in pink.

At the shop we have seen new swatchs come in any shade of pink from beautiful baby pink (my very fave) to the brightest hot pinks..

There is a special place in my heart for this delicate color, especially on a cherry tree ready to bloom its beautiful cups of blushing pink. A sure sign of springtime.

My sweet girl is turning 6 very soon. With 2 big brothers she runs with the doggies, but could bathe in pink if she could..I think I am going to pop over to Etsy and find some fantastical pink party supplies..

a nice suprise for a pinkalicious girls special day..

any suggestions on where or who has some great things??

Do you do pink?

on walls? Furniture? what?

my heart doth go pitter patter.....

2011-01-04T22:18:00.000-08:00

I am completely in love with each of these spaces, for one reason or another..

ESPECIALLY, yes..

that Fan-frickin-tastic

bank of windows and the french.

thank you, tumblr.

I bow at your feet, yet again.

---

(but one thing bothers me about the kitchen..)

look at those CHAIRS.

whaaa?

The C word....

2010-12-28T22:16:00.000-08:00

Steves younger brother "Gary" ..has it.

Cancer..as if, hes like 44...the baby of the family.

These are Steves Brothers..

L to R

Larry, Steve, Gary "Hoss" and Bob

We are doing some fundraising for him before he goes through his stem cell transplant very soon. Steve and I thought a 2 night getaway would be a great way to raise money, and still get something out of it..

How about a a little vacation here..

this lil place out at the beach I am inccessantly YACKING about..

So, If you would like to buy a raffle ticket, we are selling chances for a 2 night getaway.

>>>>>HERE (as if you didnt know)<<<<<<<

$5 will get you a ticket, $10 will get your 2..

2 1/2 hours away from Seattle or Portland, its a perfect excape!

You can paypal me

HERE

my email is coastalnest@gmail.com

The winner will need to complete their getaway by May 15th and will be drawn and notified by New Years Day 2011..we will come to your house with a limo, balloons, a hussy in a white dress helping Ed McMahon with his big check...

wait.....

Thanks, keep Hoss in your thoughts and prayers..

the week in review.....

2010-12-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

We went on a Christmas Tree hunt.....

Retail girl spent alot of time selling awesomeness to the masses of beautiful folks at the shop..

My little drummer boy totally went all jazzy crazy at his Christmas concert..Hes pretty good!!

Punkin pie sang like the sweet thing she is..

adorned the house with all things Christmas...

Took a ride on the Polar Express...

and received the First Gift of Christmas!

Attended a darling little Christmas play with a certain angel that could melt a mamas heart...

along with a shepard of certain sweetness...

Attended a lovely piano recital to see my oldest Nephew play like a professional. Man, he is good, too!!

More adornment, I LOVE my tree<3

--yet another tree, in the entry..

little craft of egg carton flower lite covers.. really look awesome with the silver..

my advent buckets from last years "craft" you can read HERE..http://coastalnest.blogspot.com/2009/12/coastal-nest-craft.html

a beautiful tray....

We here, wish you a Merry Christmas..

xoxo

Lisa

King of the Castle..

2010-12-17T07:11:00.000-08:00

My beautiful husband and the father of my brood is having his birthday today..

Holy smokes!

He acts 1/3 his age..he he..

He is the best ever and I wish him all the best for this next year and always.

Love you, Steven Jay..

Snow days...Happy Holidays... and Merry Christmas

2010-12-13T09:11:00.000-08:00

Wishing all of you wonderful people a very Merry Christmas!!

cool under pressure...not..

2010-12-09T09:40:00.000-08:00

Excited for a photo shoot at Coastal Nest Cottage tomorrow~

should be a fun event, a little nnnervous tho..

say a prayer for good natural light in the middle of December on the NorthWest

Pacific coast..

xxoo

afflicted...........

2010-12-06T21:34:00.000-08:00

I am in pure love with cocoa right now...

a nice hot cup of milk, a tablespoon of the delicious dark powder...

and just maybe, and most likely, a nice scoop of french vanilla ice cream..

forgive me...and maybe a little dollop of whip creme..just, you know, for a little

mmmmmmm factor.

AND if Im home for the rest of the day, well, I will add a little cream de cocoa...

HeaVen....

I know, I got nothin..

..and just like that, its begun!

2010-12-01T21:27:00.000-08:00

You snuck up on me!

We've had snow already, yes, here on the coast..

thank goodness it wasnt THIS cold...

Nearly time for all that christmas cookie and treat baking..

Cozy mornings with the kids before school, sipping cocoa by the fireplace..

and just generally spreading the love..

with a little decorating thrown in for fun!

Yep, sneaky you are, but I cant wait to get you going, its going to be a fun month!

can I be the first to say

Merry Christmas?

Kidlet Christmas

2010-11-30T23:01:00.000-08:00

Id love to make these little tents over the kids beds just for Christmas eve..

And bring in a little turqoise..

Even tho, its totally not me..maybe just for the Holiday?

Thinking out loud, people..

notice that darling little Union Jack?

lovelovelove

decking the halls and baby Jesus...

2010-11-29T09:05:00.000-08:00

So, another Absolutely beautiful Thanksgiving has come and gone, we all had a terrific time with the family. I sincerely hope you did, too. Our 20th anniversary was a quiet one, I think I can safely say that we have reached middle age..ugh. Thats alright! Thanks for all the good wishes, you all are the best.

Business at Grand Heron has been brisk since we have moved back to our happy little corner downtown Aberdeen. People all smiles and thrilled we are once again home and are not just coming in to check out the new and improvements, but also, BUY!!! wow, what a concept..I think that we might be experiencing a little uptick, well, alot of uptick, of sales...Its the depression-recession over?? Lets just hope that all the newsmakers will not tell everyone to not spend..I know I for one am going to buy. I always do..I cant help it..Well, I can help it when Reagan says she wants every single thing on the nick-jr channel..Does that drive you crazy, or is mine the only little girl thats says "I want that for Christmas, mommy!!" half the time she doesnt even know what it is!

I have been going back to church lately, Ryan is in Confirmation classes and enjoying it.

He was an acolyte yesterday and did a great job, and even said it was fun..Steve has been a grinch and has been staying home. Oh, well..I love it, it makes me feel warm and cozy, I especially love that my kids are totally down with it.. The first day of Advent started yesterday and I am going to try and use this as a teaching tool for my little darlings. Finn and Reagan are especially interested about all of it, so why not? right? I know, some of you are like..Lisa..Church?

Yep..Try it, you might like it. If your in my area and want to come we go to Amazing Grace Lutheran. Our terrific Pastor Beth and congregation would love to have you..and what better time? Baby Jesus is coming!

Its our 21th Anniversary...

2010-11-22T22:36:00.000-08:00

I knew it, more than 21 years ago, he was the one for me..

He, flips my switch.

in a goooooood way.

look at him.

swoooooon.

I was digging around for old photos of us, then I was cracking up so bad I had to start taking photos of the photos..

On November 24th, the Saturday after our favorite holiday we tied the knot..

babies, but we weren't.

300 of our closest friends..egads..it was quite the event. I was crying like a baby through the whole ceremony. Nervous and not one to love having all eyes on me, and then the beautiful wedding march, it was too much for my tender little heart. Then my beautiful, handsome groom whispered the most amazing words to me..

(which will be our words alone..)

Could I look any more elated?...

Happily we lived for years together, traveling around, renovating houses, cute apartments, totally cracking up at each other along the way..

Then, seven years later, Ryan Jay came into the picture..apple of his daddy's and mamas eye..

Then our perfect Finn Patrick made us a party of 4..

Then, that awesome husband of mine gave me a "surprise 40th birthday present..."

Baby Reagan came into our lives and we are the perfect

5-some..

These are the best of days....

Why do I love him?

He works hard for his family, very hard.

He gets up the earliest, makes the coffee and gets the house going..(most importantly turns on the bathroom heater)

gets out all our vitamins and lines them up..

brings me coffee.

(all before 6:00)

I could go on, but I wont :)

He opened his fortune cookie one night while at Chinese and kept it in his wallet for a long long time, I finally took it out and now its got a perfect place attached to our goooooofy engagement photo.

Happy 21th Anniversary honey, Its gone by soooo fast.

Thank you for sharing this crazy awesome life with me..

_____

His hello was the end of her endings

Her smile, their first step down the isle

His hand would be hers to hold forever

His forever was as simple as her smile

He said she was what was missing

She said instantly she knew

She was a question to be answered

And his answer was I do..

Wreath making, and a little lunch...wanna come??

2010-11-18T22:04:00.001-08:00

So, Im putting this out there..On December 5th, Sunday.. at high noon I am going to have some awesome chicks over for a little get together, of sorts..Its going to be a fun....LOW KEY... afternoon of wreath making, lunch having and merriment. I would love to have about 6 people sign up for this fun event. All the materials and the lunch are included, you will go home with some new friends,well, no, you wont go HOME with them, per se..but you get what I mean...you will MEEEEET new people..take a beautiful wreath to hang on your door, (or over your gorgeous fireplace) home, have a full belly from the great food I will be preparing..and most importantly, have FUN! This will be at my little house in Aberdeen and I would love to hear from you by, or before November 28th--thats NEXT Sunday. This 1st annual class of mine will be $30 per person.

I created this wreath last year on a whim from a gorgeous rhody I have in my yard. We will be using pine or cedar, or both..Heck, we might even chop that ol rhody down..no, I think we wont, but. you will definately have a pretty wreath to take with you.

let me know, Ive got two victims, I mean wreath makers, so far..
xoxox
Lisa

Carry on..and....for crying out loud.....KEEP CALM!

2010-11-14T21:30:00.000-08:00

It is a great day when you get an email from one gal who calls herself

The Farm Chick...

Yep, Miss Serena.

Seems as though she wants me to come and show my wares at her little gig..

little....snort!!

I totally applied....sent in photos..waited, bit nails..(to the quick) mind you..

then i got the email..

Now all I can do is try to keep the Queen Mum in my head..I can totally see her telling me to
Keep Calm and Carry on..Miss Lisa...Pip Pip..stiff upper lip!!

Its going to be a great Summer!!

SeaWorthyHome will be sailing her ship to Spokane this June..

A Full-on Farm Chicks Vendor...

...can I hear ya say, hell yea??!!

WOOOOOOT! WOOOT!!
woooty wooty woooooooooot!!

Veterans Day 2010...

2010-11-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

A day in the life...

2010-11-08T08:10:00.000-08:00

isnt it something....ive already failed on my quest for a post a day..in november...

Carry on.

soo busy this weekend, i just crashed on sunday when i got home.

FAIL~!

Grand Heron 2010---

2010-11-06T22:10:00.000-07:00

We have, as a family, suffered muchly through the last 3 LONG years of getting this ol' gal back on her feet.

Blood, Sweat and MAny ManY tears have been shed.

Today, we came full circle..

When I arrived for the Open House this morning I pulled up across the street from this beautiful historic building and had to take a deep cleansing breath, so not to cry..I just cannot tell you how important this day was for all of my family. I went to bed nervous that no one would show up. I heard in my head things like..

Its been too long...

We have found another great place to shop...

things like that..

But today..

TODAY..

you all made my heart sing. Each and every one of you, with your huge smiles and willing hugs.Your joyful gasps when you opened the door.

righ now, its too much even for me to write about.

We Metkes thank you from the bottom of our little hearts for your support.

We appreciate you beyond words.

Thank you Thank you Thank you.

we are back where we belong.

Will decorate for hugs..

What ever happened to.......

2010-11-05T22:03:00.000-07:00

Jake from 16 Candles?

I just watched this movie for the billionth time, he still sends me..

Yes, I do fit the mold..

2010-11-04T21:49:00.000-07:00

believe it or not.

I have been on nonstop mode since August..

I cant wait until the weekend...

-----

then I cant wait till the weekends over.

Does a list count?????

2010-11-03T22:22:00.000-07:00

dropped off kids at school
got gas
drove to Olympia
Target
Macys
Back to Target
Costco
taco time (crisp chicken burrito and small dr pepper) ahhh.
race home
go to the spa for makeup and little chat session with Ryan S--who is fabulous, btw..
Steve calls on cell--bring water! Its dang near 70 degrees!! luckily in back of van from Costco :)
race to find him on his route in time to pick up chillys at proper time..(yes..I achieved it)
pick up kids
empty costco contents--mental note, clean out PANTRY Lisa
Grand Heron-dusted vaccumed..chatted about how awesome the store looks.
Haircut--I stayed blonde, btw
home
dinner--dont give me that raised eyebrow look, I know..I know....Hot dogs and Mac and cheese..

that is all.....I know its lame, but it is a post!

Too much of a good thing...its good!

2010-11-02T20:17:00.000-07:00

The glorious sand..in the toes, in the hair, under the fingernails..

running and jumping as far as you can.

Digging for clams with your hands..only Daddy has mastered it, so far..

Deep thoughts about how deep the water is, and how far away China is..I think I can see it, mama.

Uh, oh..Stud alert....

What was I saying???

-----

by the way......way to vote, Americans!

November 1st and a gut check..

2010-11-01T19:59:00.000-07:00

Hello all who find yourselves here for some odd reason or another..

When I started this strange thing called a blog, it was new and exciting and totally anonymous. I wrote on and on about worthless drivel..family, house, life, etc. I met lots of Awesome chicks who I hold near and dear to my heart. (you know who you are!)

Lately..well...Ive been a slacker. I know, I know..ME! AS IF..

I think it possibly had a little something to do with the FACEBOOK, but I will never admit it.

I took an oath to myself a couple of hours ago..(and the fabulous Mrs G over at The Women's Colony)..I have had a major crush on her and her fabulous writing since I found her years ago. Hysterical, yes..honest...brutally..and mostly I like her style of writing... She kind of has some really scary friends who like to tell her her punctuation is bad and that she left out an antonym or didn't deconstruct the sentence correctly. For this reason sometimes I hesitate to post a comment on her site..(I'm a heck of a grammar-tard, as you well can tell..)

Today...today, the ole Missus asked her facebook friends if they were down with the NaBloPoMo....What the hell is that, you say..check the link up there in the left top corner..

I made up my mind I have been slacker long enough and this month, this November...its going to be my month to get my maddddd writing skillz down. EVERYDAY. right here..

WHY??

I don't know..maybe I need a little incentive in my life.

That's why.

There may be photos, there may not. Its just a wild card over here...

SOO, consider yourself informed. Stay away, or come on over and see the neurosis that is Coastal Nest.

Like it or not, you'll find me here EVERY DAY THIS MONTH!

yeeeee haw!

now sit down and quit clapping..you look ridiculous :)

Dont forget to VOTE!

2010-10-28T22:07:00.000-07:00

SeaWorthy Home makes her maiden voyage..Ruffles & Rust Event..

2010-10-24T23:57:00.000-07:00

We packed up the the garage of all its vintage splendor and set sail for unchartered territory this weekend.

Come Junk with Us had a superior, supurb, outstanding event in Monroe Wa. Oh my goodness. If you were there, you know what Im talking about!

We had a great time, my man and I.

It was alot of work, but a true labor of love.

Timi, Jay and her funk-tabulous crew really worked as a well oiled machine to pull this HUGE event off.

The setting was wonderful. The gals and guys came out with smiles on their faces and were happy to be buying on Saturday.

This was our EXTRA large space..Filled to the brim.

Steve sung the praises of owning a vacation beach cottage..Perfectly. We gave away a weekend as a door prize and we have already had a few questions about winter getaways from people that were at the show!!

Thanks (darla and christine)

If you are interested in more info on my "stuff" and see something you might like, let me know. I will get back to you in the evening. As always you can find me on facebook

Here for SeaWorthy Home

Here for Coastal Nest Cottage

We sincerely loved meeting all of you~

When one really needs to just FALL ON THE FLOOR..

2010-10-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

This is my gal pals lovely website..Julia, or Jules as I call her...She is a house lover, extraordinaire...

She does all things houses, and I mean all things. Hollywood starlets, bad MLS photos, gorgeous one of a kind mansions, you name it, if its about houses, shes done it. Shes big...like ultra..amazing. People come to HER for a house fix..

Imagine my surprise, last week when SHE emailed Lil old ME..yes, people..ME.

"Hi Lisa, I just wanted to tell you I would LOVE to do a feature on your little Coastal Nest Cottage..send me some great before and after photos.."

After, I went to the freezer to fetch an ice pack for my head..you know, because I fell off my chair and hit my noggin on our paper shredder..I went into this crying fit that wouldn't stop. If you know me, you know that I have a bit of a struggle with all things..well, overwhelming.. I guess its probably pre-menopause..I had a big birthday recently that's been bothering the hell out of meUmmm, yes 45, and then these 3 little things..

People say BAD things come in 3s, well, its been good things for me.I am overwhelmed with joy and happiness!!

First it was the one I bow to everyday.. my very favorite writer in the whole world and the one who inspires me to be a great writer..haven't achieved her level yet, but she is hysterical and I can now say we are

just the best of buddies, and I no longer feel like a freaky stalker..Another lovely Pacific Northwest gal, I love you Mrs G! You make me laugh out loud most everyday!!

See her here at

The Womens Colony
please dont forget to check out mancake, my fave..wa wa wa..

Second, its Miss Karla over at another blog I like very well. She also is another gal from the great state of Washington and has a sweet "decorator gal" blog called

Its the little things that make a house a home

Karla and Kelley came out and spent a girls weekend at the beach house..then went home and raved about it..here

Then, the piece De resistance..

Miss Julia..

I'm not sure if the Coastal Nest gal can take much more! all of this great press is making my head spin, or maybe its from the concussion..Naaa

Anyhow, I just want to thank these 3 delicious gals for all their awesomeness..

I appreciate it beyond words..

ALL the best....

Lisa

Coastal Nest~

and I will file this post under "all things most awesome"

Charmed, Im sure..

2010-10-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my 45th birthday..Yep. I owned it. I didnt say I felt good about it, but I am glad its over..

I am a lucky lucky girl. yes, girl..Please dont call me ma'am..

I DETEST being called ma'am. You grocery store bagger-boys...call me girlfriend, or Miss, just dont call me ma'am..They must be instructed to do that, those managers should know better...although in the south, I suppose girls love it. Not me.

Girlfriend thinks they should save that for the over 70 crowd.

~~~

I just want to thank the little people in my life..

You all are a good bunch of kidlets.

you make me smile. Every day..

and give me a charming life full of fun, jokes, laughter and good manners. I love you.

you are my little presents..the perfect gifts, every day..

Happy Birthday, self..

Where I grew up..Mom and Dads..

2010-10-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is where I spent all my growing up years..

Although this is the new addition to the house, it once was a patio that I had a few parties and dances on..

the sweet petite dining room

My moms beloved majolica and oddity collection..

Living room

The gorgeous partners desk in the living room, full of photos from years gone by and treasures galore.

the favorite zebra rug and prized stripe antique stripe sofa..love it..

Kitchen..

Shes quite the gal, and hes quite the guy. We have had lots of fun in this house.

More to be had, too!

A lil summer turned fall project..

2010-10-03T21:42:00.000-07:00

As you all can see, my man loves a ladder..And his Ridgid..AND the smell of fresh beautiful cedar shingles..

I originally thought, yes I said THOUGHT we would paint the house this summer..But, ohhhh, no..Not MY husband..He prefers a hammer to a paint brush any day of the week. Hammer + Husband = projecto perfecto..

Did we just reside? No, not JUST..we reconfigured our entryway, to the way it was when it was built, added two new beautiful larger windows and a gorgeous 8 ft all glass door. IT IS GORGEOUS..

One day I had a date with some very vintage corbels and the belt sander..They were given to us by our great neighbor next door. How did she know they would work so perfectly into the project? Not sure, but they are installed now, and yes, they look like they have always been there.

My fine work..

this gigantic school house light was hanging in the Ballroom at Grand Heron..The electrical and all the metal, including the beautiful chain have had some new life breathed into them and Steve added a dimmer switch, now at night its like we have a full moon at our door..

We are doing this project in thirds..since we are not rich..(in money) but other ways we are billionaires..

Here is one of our billions, a great assistant..too!!

New and Greatly Improved....Grand Heron

2010-10-03T08:46:00.000-07:00

Here I am, across the street. My brother and his great crew have just finished painting outside..

The gorgeous black tile is laid and very nearly finished.

Bannister getting prepped for paint

industrial lighting..fantastic trimwork..

this is the counter lighting, minus the counter, gorgeous, no?

front windows and gorgeous chrome fixture.

LeRoy, our electrician in the red..he has been a fixture at Grand Heron since like, February. Hi LeRoy!

Carpeting going down..

Ill show you the restaurant photos, very soon!

A lovely reminder of days gone by.....

2010-09-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

This was Grand Heron, seems like a million years ago. Actually, it was almost 3 years.

She was an amazing place. Filled to the rim with gorgeous interiors. Clients have become old dear friends in this building we love each and every one of you.

Then, on December 3rd (2007) I think it was, it started getting nasty outside..they said high coastal winds..nothing big, because if there were a real warning of high winds, my Dad would have put the braces on the front windows..he has done it more than once, for sure..He's prepared like that...Little did we know how a little wind would affect the next 3 years of our lives.

It really kind of stings to see these photos. The shop was poised for another wonderful Christmas season, filled to the gills with wonderful winter wonderland garlands and lovlies, I remember how fantastic it looked after we got done decorating. The winds reached 130 here on the coast that night. Grand Heron's roof was torn off like a sheet of paper toweling. Just rolled off into the parkinglot. It was raining inside the store when my parents got the call to come down because the windows were blown out. It was about 4 in the morning when I got the call. It was from my mother. I was wide awake anyway, Steve was in charge down at the Post Office that day and they had also called him in. I was a nervous wreck just thinking that HE was going to be out in this weather driving to work, now I have my parents out there, too. They all described the scene as complete chaos. Everything that wasnt nailed down was flying through the air. Trees, phone poles, garbage cans, you name it. People lost their lives in this storm here on the harbor.

The fire department was at Grand Heron when my parents arrived. There wasnt a thing anyone could do with the wind whipping at those speeds. Even thinking of trying to board up the windows was out of the question. Mortification was all I could hear on the end of the phone line when I picked it up that early morning. My mom was hysterical. Im shaking even thinking about that night typing this.

Every person in my family..My parents home, my sisters home, my brothers home and our home all received roof damage from that storm. It didnt just affect us, either..Grays Harbor was devistated.. I mean devistated. We had no heat, no lights, no anything for days. What we really didnt have was doppler. There wasnt really any warning of this storm, the 100 year storm, they called it. Steve and I and the kids went and got our Christmas tree that day. Do you really think sensible Lisa would have taken her most treasured treasures out in a storm like that....no..it got a little blustery on that trip..I remember Steve and I looking at eachother when we were out in the tree field..It was that, we need to get going look...Its crazy to think of...lordy.

Anyway, this is about the shop. We have been in a less than lovely rental since Early 2008. The last few years have been like a nightmare. Devistation on top of recession.

and guess what....its not going to be much longer ..

one thing I do know for sure..Family is everything.

EVERYTHING. to the millionth degree..and then some. Its been some kind of an adventure..its not over yet, but.....

Pictures of the new and improved and drastically SUAVE

GRAND HERON

soon...like, tomorrow.

Promise..

new additions, new adventures....

2010-09-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

On the left side of the blog, you will notice a new banner..Ruffles and Rust..I will be a vendor at this unique show of likeminded funky, fun chicks that have a nack of collecting and selling their wares..I have found my tribe..I have always told you I have major gypsie in me..this is where it comes out. I love my junking people..We have a blast together!! You can read more

here

I am very excited to participate with Timi and her gorgeous crew. You girls are rockin awesome..I will be doing a giveaway closer to the October show date for a couple of tickets to this excellent show. Keep an eye out for that..

========

On the RIGHT side of my blog you will see the adorable little Coastal Nest Cottage at Pacific Beach..

Steve and I are now taking the reservations ourselves through www.vrbo.com/319730

what does this mean to you?

Why should you care, you say?? Well, it means lower rates for you and your family..It also means I will have more control on specials I might want to run and guests who might have a big idea or two on a fun blogger getaway of some sort or another..Im just putting that out there, because its a perfect spot for a girls weekend. (yes, you!)

So, please, do youself and myself a favor, and go and check out my links. You just might find yourself at a junk show, or the beach!

Either way, I would love to meet ya!

Tomorrow....

Grand Heron update..

(and baby, its been a long time!)

Im Baaaaaaack!!

2010-09-10T22:43:00.000-07:00

Thats right...

with a new attitude and a spring in my step..

People, its been a summer worth talking about, and Im not kidding. I wont bore you with all the details, but lets just say that Lisa is on a mission.

By the way..so is Steve. His mission is a little different than mine, but man oh man..I will post some photos in short order. Its FANTASTIC!

All 3 of the kidlets are in school full time now.WOW to that. One minute I am overjoyed with the tranquility of a quiet home in the morning, the next its the tears..I kill myself with all these emotions with the kids. Im sure we all do, but its so crazy, am I the only one?

What have you been up to? By the way, I appreciate the emails from all my girlfriends who said that they missed me and my blatherings..Your too cute, and sweet..

Break-time...

2010-08-03T09:42:00.000-07:00

August is busy, Im taking off my cape and will be back at a later date..

Barn House....

2010-07-30T21:54:00.000-07:00

This is going to be so much fun..

Timi and her gorgeous crew on her

Come Junk With Us Bus will be picking me up earlier than when the rooster crows..

Oh my!!

tickets for two..

2010-07-27T22:34:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the one and only

Mrs G

youve won 2 tickets to tour the Ultimate Beach House

Seabrook!

email coastalnest@gmail.com

Seabrook and Coastal Living Magazines Ultimate Beach House Preview Party.....

2010-07-17T11:18:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

First of all let me start this post by saying a gigantic THANK YOU to Seabrook and Tim for inviting us to the Preview Party..It was one of the most amazing, thrilling, exceptional nights I can remember in a long time.

I was honored.

So, here we are..

The entry to the Ultimate Beach House was done so perfectly-imperfect with native mosses and groundcovers. The cement pavers were done with an oyster shell exposure. Gorgeous! Simplistic cedar planters with boxwoods top it off as you enter into the cute little gated courtyard.

Oh.my.goodness...It is none other than Tim Clarke, himself! He was so wonderful ...when he saw my mom coming down the breezeway, he said...Oh, she came!! He is a true gentlemen, sweet and so approachable.

And I am a huge fan.

--hello, look at that darling belt buckle..

shall we get started??

Fireplace and outdoor barbecue-party space. Look at that magnificent oystershell mirror.

The whale was so perfect in its spot outside..

This basket with the blankets came from Grand Heron.

Amazing fireplace in the living room set the tone for the whole home, the lighting as well..it made me feel like I was visiting the treasured home of a young sea faring captain.

The kitchen was simplistic to a T..No over the top granite or marble here. Totally refreshing. I craved the space. Martha would love this kitchen. The photos dont do it justice.

These orange twin beds were stunning with the dark blankets and then a blue and white cotton rug from Dash & Albert.

The Master Bedroom suite.

On to the dinner party..Yes, I think I was the last one in..silly girl, to dilly dally in that house so long.

(totally worth it)

This is Stephen Poulakos, landscape architect, among many things.. and the towns go-to guy speaking in the perfect green sweater...

Casey and Laura Roloff..The dreamer-uppers and town founders of Seabrook..(also high school sweet hearts)

Laura is going to have their 4th baby girl in a few weeks!

Tim Clarke here below on the left..Coastal food done to perfection. Crab legs, oysters, steamer clams..It was all delicious and so simply and perfectly displayed.

posterity photo of Mr gorgeous and self..

This is downstairs, large media room and workout room.

I feel like my photos arent all they should have been, but I was completely drunk with excitement and high on design--decor.Please forgive me...

It really did my soul good to be at this lovely occasion. May I speak for my family and say thank you again to Tim Clarke, Coastal Living Magazine and the wonderful Seabrook Family for the terrific hospitality and forward thinking you all have put into our little corner of the world.

It is deeply and profoundly appreciated.

we GET it!

Thank you sooo soo much!

If you are interested in coming and seeing the Coastal Living Ultimate Beach House at Seabrook

go ahead and leave me a comment on this post.

Ill give away 2 tickets at the end of this next week.

You can go through the house until October 31st..

Its totally worth it!

Really..

The Golden Ticket....

2010-07-09T10:41:00.000-07:00

Out at our tiny coastal village of Pacific Beach, there is a new beach town growing up from the cliffs just south of us..Seabrook is moving and shaking up the area like I never thought I would see. Amazing gigantic classic homes along with sweet little cottages and darling cabins are the call of the day. It has been so fun to watch this whole little town grow up from the red clay and old growth that use to inhabit the hillside there. My Father and I, along with my infant baby boy Finn in tow, went out to the first meeting that Casey and his family had at the fire station in Pacific Beach. He wanted to share his vision of what he imagined could take place here. HERE in Grays Harbor County~~This made my creative juices overflow with excitement..It has been absolutely amazing to see his vision come to fruition.

Lately, though there has been a new buzz in the salty coastal air out on the mighty Pacific Ocean..Ultimate Beach House? For Coastal Living Magazine??

I have been a contributor to reviewing their magazines for a while..Its been one of my favorite magazines for, well, since it started..along with Pacific Beach itself, it seems to be a perfect storm of awesomeness for me.

Then...THEN...I SAID THENNNNN throw in one Gorgeous, talented, toe-headed decorator extraordinaire from Santa Monica California, Mr Tim Clarke, of Tower 20 fame to do the decorating inside...someone get the smelling salts, Im going down...

Yes, he even came into moms shop.. GRAND HERON and purchased a few select pieces from the shop...

YES, for the UBH..and again, yes..I was NOT there..Can you believe it?? Grand Heron furnished a small piece of the Ultimate Beach House...for Coastal Living Magazine..

Although my friend Stephen had sent us invitations, this makes the invitation the icing on the cake for me..Tim sent Mom an invite himself..and yes, he says "bring your daughters too.."

this will be fun..and yes, I will bring my camera, and YES I will report back..Because Im nice like that..

*****Here is some information you might like to have about touring the*****

Seabrook Ultimate Beach house..

Thursday, July 15th – Grand opening party hosted by Coastal Living Magazine™ and Seabrook Land Company
July 16th – House open to the public for 14 weeks
October 31st – House is closed to the public
October, 2010 – Coastal Living Magazine™ October issue comes out with a detailed 20-30 page spread of the Ultimate Beach House at Seabrook

As soon as the Open House period begins, the home will be staffed with a staff manager and an admissions fee of $10 will be charged for each tour.
The net proceeds collected from the entrance fees will go to charity and will be used to support these local organizations:
Pacific Beach Elementary School
You will be able to purchase the tickets on-site at Seabrook or online through our Ultimate Beach House website.

Come on out, enjoy a little summertime at Pacific Beach and Seabrook. Its quiet coastal beach vibe will relax you into a different person. Yes, you can stay at a cottage rental at Seabrook, and..

Theres always my Coastal Nest Cottage, too!

Enjoy your summer people..

want to read more about.....click on the red links..
Coastal Nest Cottage, the BEGINNING..including the good the bad and the REaLLy BAD..

my Coastal Living Reviews

Grand Heron--shop extrordinaire..
more shop...

Happy Birthday!

2010-07-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

No matter how your going to celebrate this weekend ..

do it up right!

Happy 4th of July!

Healthy Happy Birthday wishes from the McElliott family to the Greatest Nation on Gods Green Earth!

Reality is...

2010-07-01T09:45:00.000-07:00

Im tired, of it all. Im tired of "it all" telling me I need to have "it all" and be "it all". She is exhausting me.

Im sick of "it all" trying to horn in on my life. She makes me feel inferior..She really dosent have that right. I think somehow she is a shirt tail relative to "The Joneses" now THOSE people are irritating.

I know "it all" has snuck into my life in certain great ways..I have posted some of her beautiful photos here. This is really all I need. Or want.

Cutest..

2010-06-29T10:03:00.000-07:00

Dont you love this?!

The simpler the better...Im finding out..

Happy Tuesday, peeps!

2010-06-28T09:43:00.000-07:00

Middle boy got his tonsils out on Friday..

Its been a long weekend and he is still asleep right now....

He has been a super trooper, tho. This boy is all about food, so it has been kinda hard on him. He has been saying things like "soft food isnt any good, mama...even if it is ice cream"

gotta love the little man..

Pip pip cheerio..

2010-06-25T17:05:00.000-07:00

This is total awesomeness in my book.

3...painted floor

2..light blue trim

#1..........Union Jack curtain..lordy.

I would have love love love to have a gin and tonic in this room.

with you, of course..

ya Comin?

Red she said...

2010-06-23T08:25:00.000-07:00

I have decided to to some redecorating out at the beach house this summer.

I think Coastal Nest needs a bigger splash of this gorgeous hot color.

Is there more a more passionate partner than red? I think not. There are people that would rather be soothed by calmness and harmony with all whites and pale pastels..Hmmmm. I think a punch of red does something for a room, and your heart..I crave it. Especially in a beach house.

Now to narrow down the paint selection.I want to go over these green floors with a bright awesome white, My man thinks Im crazy, but "whatever" is his mantra.. I love him for that..He goes along with 99.999% of the mad decorating skillzzz his lil' wifey comes up with..

See my drop cloth sofa slipcover over there? Shes holding up BEAUTIFULLY, by the way..