This Week's Blog Post

Magnolia Necklace Set
I purchased this magnolia pendant on Etsy as an option for the magnolia necklace giveaway. The larger, bolder pendant was chosen for that project. This pendant is sweet and little, made on the backside of a Scrabble game piece.

It called for delicate beads so I used rose quartz and white howlite. I love the pretty, summer-like result! Available at Miss Val’s Creations.

Stevens Coolidge Place
Jim and I stopped at Stevens-Coolidge Place which is located in the town I was raised (North Andover, MA).

This is a historical home I remember visiting during a field trip as a little girl. The inside was open and decorated with period furniture and décor.

Currently the inside is closed. However grounds are open year round.

The architecture is late-Federal period farmhouse circa 1800-1820.

Originally a farm, this yard was transformed into an agricultural estate by Helen Steven Coolidge in the early 1900’s using Colonial Revival aesthetics. Upon her passing she donated the estate to The Trustees of Reservation.

This is the great ash tree which is thought to have brought on the name of the farm, Ashdale Farm.

Some apple trees remain and are guesstimated to be dated back to mid-19^th century.

My favorite part of the visit was all the gorgeous blooms.

This is the upper terrace overlooking the gardens. It would be wonderful to spread a blanket here and lay down.

The walled garden has so much charm.

This well is located on a brick terrace which overlooks the gardens.

 

These beauties are in a perennial garden which I am sure changes throughout the seasons.

We will likely go back during the summer months when the roses and other pretties are in bloom! Picnicking is allowed her so it would make a perfect spot for a beautiful summer afternoon!

We also encountered some creepy old trees! This one would be perfect in a horror film.

I hope you enjoyed our trip through this delightful estate! Wouldn’t it be wonderful to live amongst such charm? Have a great week! ~Val