Monday, September 29, 2014

off the beaten path---to the shack in the woods

It's been awhile since I've posted about one of my favorite places on earth.
It's a little shack in the woods on some property we own in a canyon
about fifteen miles from our house.
Dale calls it the Juniebird Nest.
Last week Dale and I and Landon went for the day to
 just enjoy the beauty here.
I've been up here a lot in the month of September doing a little
cleaning, reading and relaxing.
I really can't put into words how I feel after a day spent here.
 
Of course I had to cut flowers from the garden to bring up and set a pretty table outside.

I would love to plant a garden here, but so would the deer, elk and moose 
that travel and live in this area.
I can only imagine the height of the deer fence I would have to put up!
So---no garden I guess.
 
Late September and October are the perfect time for enjoying this 
little
 teeny 
  cottage. 
It's this time of year that the horseflies and mosquitoes 
diminish and it's a lot more pleasant to be in the woods.


These paths through the trees are well worn from the horses and the wildlife.

I think there is something so romantic about woodland paths.


and a little romantic setting in a clearing



Inside, all is warm and definitely nest-like.










Sometimes all it takes to center me is a trip alone to this special retreat.
Because there is nothing to distract me here, I feel as though I can
fill up my soul again. 



Soon, the aspens will be turning gold and then become bare, 
which brings a whole new dimension to the woods.

I look forward to every season here, even winter.
A couple years ago my daughter and I painted the outside of the shack
a barn red so that it would look beautiful in the snow.
And it does!



 THIS day was perfection!

Wishing you all a wonderful week!!!

85 comments:

bobbie said...

Definitely soul-enchanting!!

White Lace and Promises said...

Can I come share your nest for a while? What a precious place! I've always wanted a little room in the woods. I don't even need a cabin. A one-roomer with a kitchenette would be fine for me and the Mr. Love this. I know it's a little haven from the hub bub of life.

Julie Marie said...

Hello dear June... if this is what a "shack" looks like, then I want to live in one!... I have seen some of your photos of your special spot before, but these just take my breath away!... I can truly imagine just how serene and tranquil you feel after spending time there... I will never forget your story about the horse at your door in the night!... I would go there often... sip my coffee... just breathe in all of God's beauty surrounding me... daydream until I drifted off into a peaceful afternoon nap... please please post some photos once the aspen turn... yes, there is something about a woodland path... I cannot resist either... mystical... magical... enchanted... just like yours... love you, xoxo... Julie Marie

Mammabellarte Rita Reade said...

The sweetest place! I love it in the woods....when I went up to Oregon with Dean last year one of my favorite part was walking in the woods. Such a secret and peaceful place. I am glad you had a relaxing day. Beautiful photos as always my sweet June. Ciao

La Vie Quotidienne said...

Your own enchanted cottage in the woods ~ how wonderful. I can see why you find it such a calming and restful retreat. It totally charming!

chateau chic said...

Oh June, this is a deliciously wonderful slice of heaven!! You have created such a lovely retreat place to replenish the soul!
Mary Alice

butiksofie said...

stunning pics, love the flowers, hug Anja

oldgreymareprimitives said...

such a happy place..magical really

Deb said...

This post was also perfection!
Your woodland nest is the sweetest little hideaway & I can just imagine how gorgeous it looks in the winter ...the red against the white snow.

sarah said...

Goodness, what a beautiful "shack"!

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

That is the prettiest 'shack' I've ever seen. It feels so peaceful as do the woods surrounding it. I hope you will take a picture of your red shack in the snow. From looking at the inside, you would not know that it is red on the outside.


Have a lovely week ~ FlowerLady

Susie said...

All beautiful pictures June. It looks like a pleasant relaxing place to stay. Blessings to all, xoxo,Susie

Bente said...

Hi dear June. What a fantastic place. I just love the woods there and the cottage is gorgeous. You make it magical around you there too.

Have a great week
Hugs from here

Junkchiccottage said...

June,
This is just heaven. I love your little nest in the woods. What a wonderful retreat to have. So sweet.
Kris

www.MaisonStGermain.com said...

What a cozy, lovely little piece of paradise tucked in the woods. Love it. Sometimes just getting away and having a place of your own is really wonderful. You can have a plan to do something or do nothing at all. That's how I feel about our little lake cottage. Bless you and enjoy your little get a way:)
~Debra xxx
Capers of the vintage vixens

Elizabeth said...

I enjoyed visiting your lovely place in the woods! Thanks for sharing this beautiful place!

Row homes and Cobblestones said...

June,
To appreciate the splendid beauty of nature, walking through the woods and approaching your painted Red cottage must offer a peaceful oasis that soothes the soul. I paused with each and every beautiful photo and my heart melted when I saw the set table with your pretty flowers. Loveliness abounds in your magical intriguing retreat in the woods.

Your comment you left on my post was so meaningful to me. I thank you for visiting me and making my blogging efforts feel appreciated.

I hope to fall asleep tonight and dream of a magical cottage in the woods were nature lulls me into relaxation and awakes me with renewed peacefulness.
XO!
Vera

Junebug said...

Oh Juniebird!! That is perfect! My heart went pitter patter when I saw "my" green bed again! This is just about the most perfect, peaceful spot on earth. I can still dream of someday having my own little cottage in the woods. Some day, yes, some day I am making a road trip!! So Juniebird look for Junebug to kidnap you cottage someday!!!!

awal.ny said...

What a beautiful place to relax. The flowers are just beautiful. I love how the little shack is so you, pretty, feminine and full of white and pastel colors. Enjoy your fall, we have had weather in the high 70's low 80's and the pool is still open. Only my daughter and husband will brave the cold water but we can't complain about the warm. I am looking forward to the cooler weather. Have wonderful week. Alaina

NanaDiana said...

Oh, June!!! Everyone needs a spot like that...I am so glad for you. Glad that you have a place to find peace and just re-charge for whatever is ahead in upcoming days and weeks.

I feel that way when I am sitting by the water. It centers me and refreshes me like nothing else can. I fully understand how you feel going there.

I LOVE your "shack"...shack, indeed!;>) lol xo Diana

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

WOW. June, I had no idea you had a little cottage in the woods! WHAT A DREAM!!!! You have horses, your home is perfectly laid out, you have a cottage and your photo styling is perfect. I am trying but I simply don't have all the corners of my home so neatly arranged so that my home appears so beautiful! You definitely inspire me so much. The flowers and all the vintage pieces really make each of your posts like a magazine! THANK YOU for this sweet walk through the woods.

And for your comments and visit today, I hug and thank you ! Anita

Jacqueline @ HOME said...

It's late here June but have just read your comment over at mine and, after reading your post, I just had to comment.
I cannot believe that such a beautiful place is your cottage in the woods ….. I could just live there for the rest of my life !!!! ….. that bed, the lace, the floorboards,the pictures, the picture frames ….. oh, EVERYTHING !!!! …. and, such a wonderful spot in the woods. I can see why you love being there and, I'm sure that it's perfect for Landon. Do you know, I always take a little idea from each of your posts and put it in my home ?
Enjoy the Autumn June and lots of love from here in the UK. XXXX

Bernideen said...

That is so beautiful! I love it!

summersundays-jw said...

Can I make reservations???? It's wonderful! Jan

Blondie's Journal said...

Oh, June...I just studied each and every picture and thought of how wonderful this special place must make you feel. I sometimes think that every woman needs a small place of their own, filled with special pieces and nature all around. Do you ever sleep there alone? I love the country but I sometimes get overwhelmed by the "unknown"! Trying to get over that.

Simple. Beautiful.

Jane xx

Victorian1885 said...

Oh June... I love your little piece of paradise! What a special place for you to escape life for a few hours...
Glorious my Dear...
Hugs
Wanda

Olive said...

Dearest June, it is almost 3am and I cannot sleep so to visit your Nest has been a welcoming peaceful treat. Thank you sweetie, Olive

Anonymous said...

It's a wonderful space to be on your own. With nothing more than lovely memories en a clean mind as bagage. The flowers will do the rest. I love the glases filled with water and just some little flowerdots. Love to see this place in the winter with snow...
Have a nice week!
Hugs, Peetje

My name is Riet said...

Wow dear June, that is a jewel to have. A little house of your own , that is so special. I believe you, you can have time for yourself and do whatever you want. Peaceful and quiet. Your pho to,s are as usual so beautiful.
Have a nice day my friend.

angie said...

danke für die wunderschönen bilder, ich liebe ihre dekoration und vor allen dingen das grüne bett!!!!! liebe grüße von angie

Cindy said...

So beautiful June - the perfect place for soul quieting. How blessed you are to have it and how pretty you have made it. Thanks for sharing it's sweetness with us.
Cindy

Shabby soul said...

You are able to make every thing around you so sweet darling June! This place is marvelous and the little home... a nest!
Hugs my friend
Silvia

Ricki Treleaven said...

*le sigh*….so lovely….

Lin from A {tiny} Cottage In The Woods said...

Oh, how I love your Juniebird Nest. Beautifully decorated inside and out. There is nothing like spending a relaxing day outdoors with loved ones.

The aspens have changed here, and we had our first snow yesterday. I'm looking forward to the quiet hush of winter.

Hugs,
Lin

P.S. I have a pair of concrete rabbits like the one you shared in your photo. They are above our front door. :)

Home and Lifestyle said...

What a wonderful place...for me it's a dream to be there.

Sending hugs, Ingrid

Mari Mora said...

Me parece un sitio encantador. Las fotos de las flores son maravillosas y la casa es preciosa.
Un saludo

Dorthe said...

And I have a perfect lovely feeling after seing and reading your post dear June.
What a very beautiful place you own here,I totally adore your little home, what serene beauty and such gorgeous nature to experience outside.
I love the way you decorated, and the wonderful flowers you cut.
I wish you beautiful Oktober dayes to come in this little Paradise .
Hugs from Dorthe

Ulla said...

Dear June!
You never disappointed me with your wonderful and dreamly photos!!!!
You write to me that my daughter makes you spellbound and your pictures enchant me so much, too! The bed, the flowers - it's all so perfect! Many kisses from Olga.

Katherine said...

Calming and tranquil is what comes to mind. It is easy to see why time alone with the sound of birds chirping and woodland animals running around, would create a perfect spot to regroup your thoughts.
On top of that, being surrounded in white brings Angels to you. Did you know that?
It is the perfect meditation house {and beyond beautiful}.

hugs
Katherine

Janneke said...

These pictures are absolutely stunning. I can only sigh, what a lovely romantic style and setting.

flowersandhome said...

Oh my June! This is so pretty! And the pathways through the woods make it so adventurous! Like living a dream. Don't know why but it makes me think of the stories of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, although they take place in another more Southern part of the US don't they? Enjoy your hide-away in the woods, I know I would if I'd have such a lovely place like this to go to.
Marian

Holly Loves Art said...

So very beautiful... big sigh.... ahhhh... love your posts so much!

suziqu's thread works said...

Dearest June,
I feel like I'm looking inside a beautiful book visiting here. Every thing is like a fairyland here with your sweet little cottage tucked away in the woods so sheltered and protected where you can play out your dreams to fill your heart with the things you most love in your life. Sometimes the smallest things have the most meaning don't they?

How wonderful that you could spend a day there with Dale and Landon too taking photos of your beautiful roses, vases and your little nest.

There are very few places like this in the world that could replenish your heart and soul (and body too)!

I am so happy for you that you have this special place because you have been given a gift for the hours of mothering such a needy "child" who will always hold a shining light in your heart.

Hope you can feel the love and hugs I am sending!

Suzy

Shabby chic Sandy said...

Oh my--what an amazing retreat! I can't stop looking at the gorgeous photos--they are so beautiful! I love those Birch trees against the sweet flowers--I always enjoy your posts but this has to be my favorite!

Shanon at Vintage Sparkle Chic said...

Oh, June, what an amazing place you have to get away to. It's just so fun to get away from "it all". Your flowers look so gorgeous in the beautiful container on the bistro chair. As always, drooling over all of your photos.

~Shanon

Stacy's Shabby Shoppe said...

I can see why you love to go up there June. I absolutely adore it! There's nothing better than being out in nature...the peace and quiet is so calming. xo

Mantelilaakson Susanna said...

Beautiful and sweet garden roses and Hydrangeas!
Lovely atmosphere!
Have a lovely autumn!

Rostrose said...

Dearest June,
it's not necessary to create a garden here, you ALREADY HAVE a "Garden of Eden" with this small, charming cottage and the wonderful natural environment! Continue to enjoy it with all your heart! :o)
Lots of hugs, Traude

Madelief said...

What a beautiful country retreat you have June! It looks like a dream, both from the inside and outside. I can imagine why you love going there. It's such a beautiful spot. I can almost hear the birdsong :-)! The interior of your house is lovely too....and the light!

And I almost forgot the flowers...so very pretty!

Wishing you a lovely day!

Madelief x

Privet and Holly said...

June, I'm so happy
that you have a sweet
little retreat like this
to call your own. Yes,
I can imagine that each
season brings its own
joys and special sort of
beauty. It definitely feels
like a woman's retreat, so
it makes me smile to
think of your hubby and
son joining you there : )

Thanks for sharing your
little nest with your readers!

xo Suzanne

A Joyful Cottage said...

June, your little cottage (shack? No!) in the woods is enchanting. I could move in right now and be perfectly happy living there. Thank you for leaving the nice comment on Lin's post at my blog. I'm so glad you did because it brought me here. I've spent the last hour perusing your beautiful blog. Your photography is breathtaking. Spending time here is better than any magazine I could find. I'm curious about the footer photo which is of flowers at a sink with , I believe, pine cabinets. Is that your kitchen? I'm dying to see more. xxx ~ Nancy

Debra Howard said...

What a lovely little cottage in the woods! Beautiful and nestled in a beautiful place

Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson said...

June, your cottage is gorgeous inside! Just seeing it makes me want to curl up and relax. I love the lace draped across the window and the ruffles hanging from the rope! You are so creative, eye candy in every corner! I too love a woodland path. Certainly soothes my soul to be in a place like this. Makes me feel ever so close to God.
hugs,
Jann

Bumpkin Hill said...

ahhhh now I feel my soul filled up too. What a beautiful, peaceful, haven you have created there. Your roses are heavenly as ever. Catherine xx

Sandi~A Cottage Muse said...

Hi June!
This little shabby shack is as sweet as can be ~ glad you took us back!
I love the old green bed and the frames leaning against the wall. Actually, I love it all!

Diane said...

It's so nice that you have a little hideaway like that. I'm sure your family loves it, too. What a beautiful place. Diane

Sarin vaatekomeron kätköt said...

Such a beautiful and peaceful place, like a dream come true. Thank you for sharing these gorgeous images and atmosphere<3

Kukkaiselämää said...

Wow! So beautiful!!!! I'm almost speechless...

Satu from Finland

Anonymous said...

perfect photos images capture the desire of wishing to be right there with you..lovely place..

Hugs

Draffin Bears said...

Dear June,

You have the sweetest little place in the woods! It is so pretty and can see how calm and relaxed you must be after visiting your retreat.
Love the pretty flowers and gorgeous tablecloth and glasses you took.
I really loved your post dear friend and thanks for showing us.
Hope you are having a happy weekend
hugs
Carolyn

Debbie said...

That would be a difficult place to stay away from, June. It's like a sanctuary. A place where you could go, and "Be still, and know that I am God". Ps. 46:10.
I love it~
Debbie
xo

Rosemary and Thyme said...

Can these images be more magical?? What a treat for the soul June. Your garden and home are the most enchanting and serene places I have ever seen. It is truly a breathtaking home. How I would love to enjoy an afternoon in your garden with a warm cup of tea.

Wishing you a lovely week,

Janet

Mimi Sue said...

The perfect spot! So beautiful! Mimi

Peonies & Magnolias said...

Oh June, what a beautiful place to refuel your soul. I love it!

Claudia said...

Gorgeous. I remember seeing this little retreat before! You've made such a lovely getaway.

Of course, all I can think is (perhaps because it's a problem where we live) do mice get in there when you're not around? They sure get in our little shed.

xo
Claudia

Maryjane-The Beehive Cottage said...

"Juniebird Nest" is heaven here on earth! How blessed you are to have your sweet retreat. Yes, a place to center yourself. I love every detail and love you have put into it June!

Love,
Maryjane
xox

Low Tide High Style said...

June, I absolutely love the name your husband has given to your beautiful cabin in the woods. I love places that restore the soul, and your adorable small abode amongst the trees is the perfect spot to do it! I swear girl, you could turn a dumpster or an outhouse into a magical place...what a talent you have! Happy fall to you!

xo Kat

Stan and Jody Gabara said...

June, I love this post! Sorry I'm late, just got home from a trip to Europe and had to stop by. I always get inspired by your blog. What a beautiful place to relax.
I love the table decorated with the lovely flowers, so pretty! Your little shack looks gorgeous! You've added your special touches to it. Just perfect! Thanks for sharing your hidden cottage.
Hugs,
Jody

HWIT BLOGG said...

Oh what a beautiful post and what a lovely cottage! Wow! I could stay there for ever...
Warm hug,
Titti

Susan EvelynAndRose said...

Oh, what a beautiful place to escape to June. I love how you cozied up the Juniebird cottage inside. It does look so peaceful here indeed. I just adore your tablescape, too. I would't want to leave! Thanks so much for your sweet comments I always love seeing!

Burlap Luxe said...

Oh June what a beautiful place of SHELTER....
It's a perfect home away from home, it so refreshing to be able to step away from daily life even if its right up the way for your home, it's those little quiet places and spaces that do just that for the soul.

I would fall in love with this tiny cottage if it were mine upon every visit. Love it's gathered and collected feel, and the garden wooded with tress so full of fall nature.

This was a wonderful visit, it welcomes fall romantically.

Xx
Dore

Heaven's Walk said...

What a sweet, adorable and precious little hideaway, June! It's so beautiful! Love the pop of that green bed amidst the pastels. Just perfection! Enjoy this blessed autumn, sweetie!

xoxo laurie

Geli said...

Dear June!
You live in little paradise ...
With beautiful roses, horses and wild nature!
I always admire your flower bouquets!!!!
Hope you are all and I wish you a dreamy autumn week!
With love,
Geli

Ingrid said...

Hello June,I am back in blogland,I think you had a wonderful summer.....I love your new post again...so beautiful...enjoy the new season....x

Laura @ 52 FLEA said...

I can see why you are enthralled with your Juniebird nest in the woods as it is charming and enchanting and reflects your beautiful soul. I have to say I feel the same about our camp here in the Adirondacks. It is my haven and retreat. How lucky are we? Sending you love and peace.

Ivy and Elephants said...

June, it is sooo beautiful! You are blessed to have such an amazing playhouse. I love all the collected pieces so beautifully displayed, just a sigh of serenity...
Hugs,
Patti

john said...

what a beautiful place ! for a start I LOVE the woods I always feel at home amongst the trees , there is something enchanting about little "shacks" in the woods. I can well imagine how you feel restored after a visit there. And your roses mmmmm I can almost smell them from here ....beautiful post ......Gail x

Anonymous said...

A beautiful post.

toves sammensurium said...

Dear June!
You haven´t been blogging for a while,I hope everything is well ?
Thanks for your sweet comment on my blog,but I have to admit…I feel very small regarding beauty when I see your pictures.As always amazingly beautiful!
Can´t wait for you to share som autumn pictures as well,because I am sure they will be something of their own!!!
Take care sweetie!

Tovehugs :)

Michele M./ Finch Rest said...

Dear June,

I found you today and I am thrilled! I was "sent" here by someone I had over for a visit whom you may know - a fellow blogger named Cindy from Custom Comforts.

We enjoyed a calming last of the season out nice outdoor visit getting to know one another better - something I hope we repeat.

I am glad to be visiting your blog and happy to be your newest follower.

I am really looking forward to back reading - you have such beautiful posts. This one is particularly gorgeous and I anxiously await seeing more too. Blessings to you, June.

Sincerely, Michele from Finch Rest

Robin said...

Vey Beautiful June! I love retreats with my best friend too!

Ana said...

My sweet friend June,
It has been a while since I've come over for a visit. I was thinking about you today so I thought I'd stop by to say hello. Hope you are doing well.

You are truly blessed to have such a beautiful, dreamy getaway.

Much love,
❤️Ana

Cindy said...

You're such a faerie with your little cabin in the woods and the way nature fills you up. What a precious little cottage, and that bouquet of flowers is delicious...

Cindy

Julia said...

Que bonito post, me he paseado por tu bloc y me ha encantado, te invito a ver el mío, esta semana seguro que muchos de vosotros no resistiríamos la tentación de comerse un buen puñado de castañas calentitas. Pero sabeu cuál es el origen de esta fiesta? ¿Por qué, año tras año, cuando llega el otoño, nos gusta reunirnos con la familia o con los amigos para tostar las castañas y comérnoslas juntos y por eso adornamos la casa. Os explicare algunas razones y cómo decorar el hogar para esta ocasion, Deseo que te guste y si es así y no eres seguidora espero que te hagas, gracias por visitarme.
Elracodeldetall.blogspot.com

Anne said...

Wow what a dream...an absolute dream...thank you for sharing.I bet it's hard to leave,I could stay there forever <3