My twenty-year friendship with Brenda began before grandchildren, before island life, before widowhood for me. As with all truly good friends, she has seen me through all of this and more. When she called to tell me her Larry had passed, I was devastated for her, knowing all too well what this felt like. It took a week to get back to Texas and visit. What a wonderful surprise awaited me there. She and Larry had moved to Magnolia, Texas, during my absence. It was to be their final move, and such a blessing for Brenda. Larry knew his time was short, so he moved her two doors down from her son Chris. His final purchase was a new riding lawn mower, knowing that Brenda would be wanting to do the yard work herself. As you can see from the picture above of her next door neighbor, she had indeed moved to the country.

This move entailed a great deal of renovation, straight out of “Country Home”. Entry doors, closet doors, front doors, and every door in between reminded you of country living. Settling in for the visit was like a breath of fresh air. It was such a peaceful feeling. According to Brenda, her son Chris had developed a natural talent for decorating; and his house was a must see as well. The lighting reminded me of “country shabby chic”, and I immediately starting photographing for adding to my “Colorado Cabin” idea folder.

Of course the country kitchen had a six-burner gas stove, a double oven, and a gargantuan island in the middle with seating for the entire family. The entryway was rustic all the way, with hall pieces that were reminiscent of the sliding barn doors throughout. Chris outdid himself with the built in benches and rural signs to welcome all visitors.

Amazingly, much of Brenda’s furniture had made the trip from her Gainesville house unscathed. I was particularly impressed with her antique four-poster bed, with a matching intricately carved dresser. This was in Larry’s room, which I had the honor of reposing to when evening came.

However, my favorite memory is of Chris’ austin-stone jacuzzi, complete with an electric fireplace. This is a definite idea for my colorado place. It makes me wonder how difficult it is to obtain austin stone in Winter Park:)