thursday fun day on Balboa

I just love that summer’s in full swing! All the hard work I did in the garden during the winter and spring months are paying off, and we just love spending time in the back yard, especially near the firepit on cool nights.

The focal point of this area is this large ceramic fish that was left to us by the previous owners. He's been with us for over 20 years now, and he's as cute as ever, even with his chips and cracks... those darn tree trimmers!

The little gap between the step sweeps around the firepit and is planted with adorable “Santa Barbara daisies”, ferny “dusty miller” and fragrant white alyssum. It’s filled in quite nicely and is a cheery addition to the outdoor dining area. 

It’s so cozy out here!

On the other side of the back yard is my “she shed”. It’s not a fancy place to relax in, but rather a workshop of sorts that stores many of my gardening and floral supplies.

It’s also a great place to keep some of my collectables. I think of it as my little curiosity shop, and it even has a shopkeepers bell on the door that rings whenever you enter. 

The garden out here is really exploding with lavender, lemons, tomatoes and herbs among many other plants. 

This is a favorite shady spot that I adorned with vintage tiles found on ebay. I love how the vines are taking over!

So later today, I'm headed to Little Balboa Island to the Blue Door Cottage, seen below...

Blue Door Cottage

Isn’t it cute? My friends Angi & Peter own this dreamy little vacation cottage and are hosting a dinner party tonight and I’m helping them decorate the tables for the event. 

Here's the mood board for tonight's tablescape. All these items, besides the fruit and greenery are available from the local party rental company.

I can’t wait to set this fabulous table! I’m also photographing it, so you know you’ll get a peek of the finished tablescape soon.

Newport Harbor Home Tour

Also on my radar today, is the amazing before and after of this memorable farmhouse from this year’s Newport Harbor Home Tour. You can read all about it here.

Savannah

I’m also preparing for a trip to the south, which includes my beloved Savannah. I have a post coming up later this month on a couple of my favorite stops while in Savannah.

Please check back soon for all the latest!

ciao! fabiana