Western Prairie Town

The Calgary Stampede, the 'Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth' is underway! Yaaaahoo!!

We drove to the charming western prairie town of Nanton, Alberta a couple of weeks ago in search of antiques and some new western gear for Stampede. Nanton is a treasure trove of antiques. The architecture is just what you'd expect to see in an early 1900's western town. Spend the day strolling main street and stop for lunch or a cup of tea. Don't forget to visit the Bomber Command Museum!

 

Into the Woods

 

A few weeks ago, we headed out of town to my brother and sister-in-law's home for a family barbeque in the beautiful hamlet of Bragg Creek, Alberta. I found myself inspired by the peaceful, wooded surroundings, but most of all by the cozy rustic cabin located on their property.

 

 

The cabin is an original pioneer cabin that would have been situated there for several decades before the main house was built. The pioneer's cabin even has the original stone slab on which a wood stove would have sat and been used not only as a source of heat, but also for cooking.

 

 

My sister-in-law, Colleen, has given me the go-ahead to decorate the exterior.  Their property is filled with useful materials such as horse troughs, antique bed frames, finials, wood benches and seating, both new and old. Can you tell I'm excited? I'll share what I've done in a few weeks time.

 

 

Oh, and I'm sure you're wondering; who exactly lives in the cabin? Well that is a secret for only the woods to behold...

 

~ Shhh!..... ~

 

 

 

 

Best of the West

The Calgary Stampede, A.K.A. 'The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth', is in full-swing here in Calgary, Alberta. Yesterday we moseyed down to the action packed rodeo and rustled-up some cowpokes! YAHOO!! How about roundin' up a bit of western flare and adding it to the look of your home?

Sources:  (Clockwise from top left: Bed, Urban Barn; lamp, This Next; rustic pendant, Woodsyend; coffee table, Bouclair Home; sofa, Country Living; tub, Victoria  + Albert Baths; chandelier, Restoration Hardware; Horse picture, Calgary Stampede; rug, First Dibs; range, La Cornue)

Prairie Manor House

Welcome to 'Lougheed House' which was once the grand home of Sir James Lougheed and Lady Isabella Lougheed. Built in 1891, this elegant sandstone masterpiece just sneaks into the last decade of the Victorian era. Each year around Christmas time, various designers decorate each room in the historic home as a charity fund-raiser. A few highlights from the event last weekend....

This grand front room must have been wonderful for receiving guests and entertaining. I may need to track down that elegant round ottoman-cocktail table for my own living room!

The elegant main staircase below is adorned with detailed stained glass featuring local wildlife.

The two photos below are of the 'gentleman's parlor'. I really liked the feel of the this room. I would have been quite comfortable sipping a brandy on that chestnut leather sofa!

This bedroom has such a welcoming feel. The rustic oil painting over the antique bed echos prairie life.

A nutcracker stands guard at one of the many fireplaces throughout. This one is in the basement ballroom where many events were held by the Lougheeds.

Home on the Range

 

Last weekend we took a lovely drive out to the country. We went to visit my cousin and her boyfriend who recently purchased a large acreage northwest of our city. It's definitely a different pace of life out there; a refreshing, rustic retreat. Magnificent views, interesting historic outbuildings, and antiques left behind within them....their property was full of inspiration!

The stunning picturesque view to the west.

A classic John Deer green mailbox from Kaboodle would certainly fit in well out there!

Old farm equipment poses like intricate sculptures near the stables



Wouldn't it be wonderful to snuggle up with this cozy Pottery Barn throw and watch a storm roll in?

I love the worn green paint on this outbuilding - one of many filled with interesting antiques.

Hello nosy neighbors!

Their sweet puppy 'Sherlock' was exhausted after a day of exploring on the acreage.