Retirement wishes...

More and more often, I find myself yearning for the lazy days of retirement! "What?" you say? I'm not sure I will lounge around and sleep in until 9:00am every day, never go through the long process of hair and makeup (after all, I do have the primping gene, as identified by my sister Denise).

I do find that when I have been away from my retail "home" I often yearn to return and get my hands back in the thick of things. I'm not sure I would be happy for too long without some of the stresses and challenges of my work. Maybe I'll always have a hand in consulting and designing. Yes, most likely I will. That being said, I still yearn for the lazy days of retirement, be they what it may.

While we were away in the Outer Banks, my youngest daughter, Jessie and I walked the quiet and historic streets of Beaufort, NC. It was here that I was reminded that Jess and I have always shared the dream of having a bed and breakfast! We love to cook and bake. We can be very entertaining (especially Jessie!), I have set after set of beautiful old dishes, at least 30 cake plates. Probably 25 compotes for jams, jellies and fresh fruits. Vintage linens galore (and don't forget my fetish for ironing).

Just think how often we could redecorate the rooms! Recycle the furniture and by new! Create a "designer room " of sorts and sell it off, only to create something more interesting! I could use all of my favorite art and collectibles, hang as many plates as I wanted and repaint at a moment's notice. And, we would have Sneelock to complete the tasks!

Somehow it doesn't sound very relaxing.

Here are some of the homes that were for sale that could be the new retirement venture! I'm sure you can see the possibilities with me.

Almost every house was white! The old fisherman's captain's homes dated back to the early 1700's.
Porches everywhere for the lounging. Rockers facing the sea. Black shutters. Charm.
This sidewalk had a welcoming name written in oyster shells at the beginning of the walk. I thought I was getting it in the photo...oh, well.

Gates and fruit compote finials. This side porch faced the enchanting guest house in the rear.

Old wooden fences, freshly painted, more porches and black full length shutters. Yes, this could be the one.

This one looks like a fitting challenge for fabulous design. *note the private balcony*

Bella, one of my four year old grand daughters stopping to check out these dainty yellow blooms.

I'm pretty sure we were meant to own one of these. Oh, and did I mention that Jessie has plans to "rent cats to sleep in your room" for those who desire...

I'll let you know when the place is ready for reservations.

It's good to dream.