It's always a treat to get an invitation to visit Santa Barbara and the gorgeous home of my husband's sister and her husband. I have shown some of the interior before from previous stays, but this time I couldn't stop getting shots of the surroundings in bloom.
Marcia always scoffs somewhat at my use of the term "villa", but their home has the aura of a grand country house in Tuscany. Even in the harsh drought they are contending with, the approach is breathtaking.
These shots were taken at midday and don't do all the color true justice. (Their workrooms and guest house are in the foreground.)
The beautiful drive up the hill shows the wonderful variety of plantings by Richard, a master gardener.
By the time you reach the top of the drive you are completely transported.
The walk along the welcoming entrance way also has wonderful views.
Lily in her paddock.
In fact, there are spectacular views from all around the house.
This sensational Cecile Brunner climbing rose, which now covers the balconys of the guest house, was planted only a year and a half ago.
Richard has a "man cave" here, and Marcia also has her art studio situated down here where she paints and throws pots.
Enormous oaks embrace the house.
And of course, I couldn't visit Santa Barbara without popping into my favorite shop, The Antiques Center Mall.
Guess what I always seem to gravitate to!
I bought a few beautiful linens and this wonderful little dish as a souvenir of my lovely visit.
I missed you all and all of the parties this week, and have comments and emails to catch up to.
But thank you for the wonderful remarks on my last post and on my exciting magazine feature! Also thanks to Kerryanne of Shabby Art Boutique for featuring my blog at Shabbilicious Friday last week!
Nice to get away, and always so nice to come back home.
Have a lovely Sunday and a great week ahead!
Jacqueline
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