Howdy Folks! I have a question for you. Do you like to decorate for summer just once or do you change things up as the months go along? I like to change things up but at the farmhouse, it’s a one-n-done deal because the house stays empty more weeks than not because summer down here in Texas is hotter than whoopee in woolens. And with everything costing so much I decided to keep it simple and share how you too can keep your festive summer decor easy and inexpensive this year. Who’s with me?!
Keep your festive summer decor easy and inexpensive this year!
I’m joining Marty from A Stroll Thru Life for her Summer Homes Tour. I always enjoy a tour of homes. Especially when it’s online. That way when I want to take it all in or gawk for a while, I’m not holding up the line.
If you’ve hopped over from Thistle Key Lane, welcome and thanks bunches. I love Michelle’s clean, uncluttered mix of style. It’s so soothing.
Are you new here? If so, click on the About Me Page so you can get to know me better. Then comment below and let me know something about you. 🙂 I love new friends!
One somewhat unusual fact about me is that I don’t like to spend money. At least not on things I don’t use on a regular basis. Unless it’s unique and super cute. Then I can’t help myself. This year when it came to decorating the farmhouse for summer, I vowed not one cent would be used (and succeeded).
Vintage Ice Cream bucket
I’ve been looking for a vintage ice cream maker in white or blue for years because my friend Debra at Common Ground has one and I’ve been infatuated with hers and all she does with it for years. I hadn’t mentioned it to anyone but one day my daughter and SIL were shopping and found this one. They figured if it’s junky or rusty and old, I’d like it. They aren’t wrong.
A few years ago I purchased flags from the dollar store. Lots of flags. They are inexpensive and I think they say we love our country better than anything else so why not? I also save any ribbon that comes on a gift bag. Comes in handy when you want a touch of extra red and white.
Farmhouse living room
I thought it would be hard to find enough patriotic decor in my stash but it’s amazing what you find when you keep it all stored together. I had forgotten about so many things.
Like this framed flag that was the Mister’s grandmothers. I’m guessing his Aunt Jo framed it decades ago since she’s usually the one that kept everything sentimental like that. I’m not sentimental and didn’t have much forethought when I was younger but I’m glad she did.
Not everything has to be used like the package says or shows.
When I came across the round party paper pieces that are technically supposed to hang from something, I didn’t think I’d use them. Then I reminded myself that not everything has to be used like the package says. I like the way they add just a touch more color sitting up on the mantel and hanging with the garland.
With the lack of storage space in an almost 100 year old house, I try and keep the everyday stuff out and use it over and over. Like the white pieces, candles, ironstone pitcher and both centerpieces on the mantel.
Use what you already have out.
They were there last fall and might be there next fall too. It all depends on how much time I have before guests arrive that season. Moving it around the house somewhere is better than finding a place to hide it. Confession – most things are stuffed under the beds already.
If you’ve not seen photos of the country house before, it’s difficult to arrange the furniture. It’s been this way about 2 years and is my favorite arrangement but I’m ready for a change. This wall above was the only wall without a doorway. It actually had a door some years ago but thankfully the Mister’s uncle closed it off. The mantel makes a statement and the room needed a focal point.
More mini flags and books for color.
I could have kept the white and green books that were here and it would have been fine but I think switching them to red is more festive. The greenery stays as does the bed spring. It had a votive candle sitting in it before but adding mini flags is a bit more fun and still free!
This is another framed piece we were given years ago. The initials at the bottom are of my father-in-law. He wasn’t born in 1953 and he’s still living so I think he may have done the needle point in 1952 when he was about 12 and in boy scouts.
I’d like some help with this corner please.
The corner behind the chair is my least favorite space. I like the old French door that was at my parents lake house and the candle on the wall but the rest is a work in progress. I’ll work on that next time we are here. Have any ideas on what you’d do? I’m always up for suggestions!
Besides the weather in south Texas being humid, it’s unpredictable when we have storms. I can’t leave pillows, glass or anything that might blow away outside. I don’t mind.
I actually enjoy putting out the cute decor each day before guests wake up. This allows me to use the same pillows and anything else I need from inside as well. Plus, the Mister says we have more pillows than we can count.
Remember too, I like switching things around.
Thank you for stopping by today. Did you find any inspiration on how to keep your festive summer decor easy and inexpensive this year? My advice – buy a lot of flags from the dollar store and you can’t go wrong adding them all over the place. I mean it! This is the time of year people won’t think you’re being lazy.
2023 Summer Home Tour!
Next up is Kim from Shiplap and Shells. Y’all, you will love her coastal home and tour. All she does is amazing. You can check out the rest of the tours from Monday thru today below as you click on the links. But come back tomorrow to see Friday’s. You won’t be disappointed. Happy summer friends!
Monday June 5th
A Stroll Thru Life – Simply2Moms – Our Southern Home – The Tattered Pew – Whispering Pines Homestead
Tuesday June 6th
Eleanor Rose Home – The House on Silverado – Calypso In The Country – StoneGable – My Wee Abode – Southern Home and Hospitality
Wednesday June 7th
Worthing Court – Thrifty and Chic – The Stonybrook House – Decor To Adore – Chalking Up Success – She Gave It A Go
Thursday June 8th
Shiplap and Shells – Pasha is Home – DIY Beautify – Citrine Living – Thistle Key Lane – County Road 407
Friday June 9th
White Arrows Home – It All Started With Paint – Southern Crush at Home – Amy Sadler Designs
I love it Cindy. Such a great surprise with tge ice cream bucket. You must be thrilled.
I try to not spend a dime either. Moving pieces around definitely saves cost and time.
Always shop the house first.
Author
The ice cream bucket was a wonderful and unexpected surprise! And cheers to us for being all smart and shopping the house first. 😉 Thank you Cindy. Hope you have a great summer.
Saving the best for last on today’s tour lineup!!! Cindy I am in love with Jo’s framed flag and your FIL needlepoint. I’m such a sap. You have created such a haven with little pops of delight. I am always inspired!
Author
Aww, thank you Laura. Reading that makes my day. Wish I could find out more about both of those pieces but I have no one left to ask. Maybe I should make up a really cool story?! 😉
Cindy,I could sit on your porch with a heart so full of love and pridef our country forever. That porch is so beautiful and inviting. You did a lovely job in every room, as you always do. But you gave a picture of God , home and country as we remember it should be. Thanks for a lovely visit to the country.
Author
Oh my goodness Susan, thank you. I’m so glad you got to visit today and commented. If you are ever around Navasota send a message and you are always welcome. I’d love to sit and chat with you. Both of our hearts would be full!
Oh I just adore your farmhouse all decked for Summer! Gosh it’s just so pretty, Cindy! It all looks so fresh and clean and airy and I LOVE that you didn’t spend a penny on the decor. Bravo!! Happy Summer!!
Author
Thank you Rachel. I was very surprised at accomplishing that because usually I see at least one thing I love and can’t pass up. Maybe that means I have enough?! Happy summer.
Your Texas farmhouse is to die for. I have been trying to find my style and now you have have shown me how to get what I could see in my mind but couldn’t actually accomplish! Thank you! I have never been one to leave out the red, white and blue in between the holidays but you have changed my way of thinking!
Have a great day. Talk to you soon,
Teri
Author
Teri, you’ve made my week! I’m so glad you have found inspiration. As for finding your style, it took me years and I mean YEARS to figure out what I love, stick with it and not worry about what others thought. I wish that for you as well. Have fun decorating and email some photos. I’d love to see them.
I love it Cindy. The farmhouse looks so peaceful and serene yet it’s festive. As far as the corner you don’t like, how about a tall plant? Or if you could find a vintage architectural pillar to tuck in the corner, that would be fantastic too. Whatever you end up doing, I’m sure will look great. XO- MaryJo
Author
I have several columns and a faux tree (has to be faux since we aren’t there much) and will try them as soon as I get back. Thanks for the suggestions. You rock!
I think you might like the French door angled and put a wreath on it.
Author
I will try that Linda the next time I’m there! I’ve been wanting to put out a new wreath too. Thanks for the wonderful suggestion!
I love this. Such great ideas. Happy Summer.
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Thank you Renae!
I love your home and all your vintage and antique pieces. You always manage to rearrange things in such a way that everything looks new. Love the patriotic vignettes, they are stunning and so great for any time of year, but especially in summer. That framed antique flag is priceless. Thanks so much for joining the tour again this season. Your home is filled with tons of treasures to delight the eye.
Author
Aww, thank you Ms. Marty. Your comment put a big ol’ smile on my face. Thank you for inviting me and I’m glad you enjoyed the tour. Happy summer!
Cindy, I’m always inspired when I visit! I love how you used flags in so many ways, that charming farmhouse didn’t need much to look cute! And I agree that Texas is hotter that “whoopee in woolens”!! So is Memphis, and now I’ll be using that saying everywhere I go lol!
Author
Don’t you know it?! LOL. Thank you Cindy. The hubs and I were talking about a short vacation and Memphis came up. Then a big fat nope. We decided on Mackinac Island in Michigan! That will be much cooler (hopefully)! When we do come (in the fall), we’ll have to go out to dinner together. Yippee
So fun to see photos of your farmhouse and I adore the patriotic decor! It makes me want to go by sparklers and fireworks! The sampler is so sweet and I love the garland on the mantel. So many views to admire. I’m so happy that you got to spend some time here, I know how much you were missing it earlier in the year.
Author
I think having out the red, white and blue all summer at the farmhouse will be so fun as well. We’ve been twice now since I put it up and not having to change it is awesome but also the energy and smiles I have is too. Why didn’t I do this sooner?! Thanks Michelle
Cindy I absolutely adore all of your patriotic decor so much – what a feast for the eyes! And I love the dollar store too! I’m a sucker for deals and love to mix high and low. Your framed flag (I have a similar one!) and needlepoint are my favorites and I just love their sentimentality. I must admit, I’m jealous when I see such a fantastic display of love for our country! I have lived in Canada almost my whole life but am 100% American! It makes me so sad that I can’t partake in or enjoy these things like my fellow countrymen and women here where we live. One day, we hope to move south and I can’t wait to be able to decorate our whole home like you! Thank you for the amazing inspiration and plethora of ideas… Happy summer my friend! xo
Author
Aww, thank you Tamara. I’m not sure what it would feel like to not have flags everywhere all the time. The hubs and I are planning to visit Canada this year. I’m hoping to see some Hallmark channel movie spots. I hear there are tons of adorable towns up there. I think I could go for that just as much as all the patriotism we show down here. 🙂 Thank you for the sweet comment. I loved every word.
Absolutely change decor during the summer. In fact some of my decor changes 10-12 times a year, usually transitioning items and colors a little at a time. Sumer starts with patriotic, move into true “summer” of the beach and travel, in August go into back to school.
Author
Yay, a girl after my own heart. I love change and decorating is my jam so I can relate to your enthusiasm. Happy decorating Dana and hope your summer is delightful.
So many fantastic ideas! I love all of the flags you’ve featured throughout your house, so perfect for summer!! Thanks so much for sharing your inspiring tour today!
Author
Yes! Flags are cheap and so easy to decorate with. And you know I’m cheap and easy. LOL. Thank you for stopping by today. Happy Friday!
Cindy,
I love your simple style. Beautiful style.
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Thanks bunches Rachel. I’ve been trying to keep things even more simple lately. I feel life has been so busy lately that I need to enjoy it instead of rushing to get things done.
You certainly had some charming patriotic decor to shop from Cindy! And that porch is farmhouse picture perfect. I thought I knew all the old sayings, but hot as whoopee in woolens is a new one on me!!
Author
I’m smiling right now hearing old people say that phrase. I’ve said it on occasion but my favorite is hotter than a honeymoon hotel. LOL. Gotta love the south. Thank you Kate.
Love that pallet board with the frame on the mantel. So smart and pretty! And the birdcage on the wall, love that idea, too! And your whoopee comment made me read it twice! LOL! Always love seeing your homes!
Author
Don’t people in California say funny stuff like that? What do you say when it’s hot? Have you heard about Marfa, TX? If not, google it. A lot of us will say it’s hotter than a coat in Marfa. And we ain’t lyin’! Glad you enjoyed the little peek into Navasteamy.
Such a lovely tour with so many pretty vignettes! Like you, I’m always looking for ways to save money! It forces you to be extra creative, doesn’t it? I love how you used flags and red white and blue in your decor…such an all American summery vibe. Thanks for sharing your pretty ideas!
Shelley
Author
It does force us to be more creative and that’s half the fun. I think if my back (and hubs) would let me, I’d rearrange the entire house each week! Thank you Shelley.
Wonderful summer tour. Lots of wonderful inspiration.
Happy summer,
Kippi
The farmhouse looks beautiful, Cindy. I love that you shopped your house so you didn’t need to spend anything decorating for summer. I did the same and when the mister asked if I’d spent a fortune on stuff for the tour I just said “nope, I just moved things around a bit!” Not sure if he believed that but it’s true haha! Men never notice what’s in front of their faces anyway lol! Happy summer!
Author
Girl, that’s so true – LOL! The only thing the Mister notices is when I’ve painted something. 🙂 Wasn’t it a great feeling to know you didn’t spend money? I get such a kick out of it. Thank you Jayne and happy summer.
I love all of your patriotic decor, Cindy! You have so many great finds, and I got so many ideas from your tour. The mantle is styled so creatively, and that trunk on the porch is so cute. I never even thought about putting picture frames inside of each other for wall decor, what a great idea!
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Glad I could inspire you and that you saw something new. That’s hard to do these days! Thank you Kristin. Have a great weekend.
Cindy ~ Such creative ideas and gorgeous spaces! I love it! Thank you for sharing in such a fun summer blog hop! Let’s do it again soon!
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Thank you Melanie. Yes, let’s! I love blog hops and peeking into seeing what everyone is doing. Happy Sunday
Hi Cindy! You have such a cheery home! I love the patriotic theme. Especially the framed flag. I like you didn’t save much when I was younger… I’m trying to be a bit more thoughtful about it today. Great touring with you. Blessings, Lori
Author
Out of my 3 grown kids, only one will (maybe) want something of mine when she gets older. And that’s a big IF! I tell them they’ll be sorry one day. They emphatically say – nope. 😉 But you and I know better. Thank you Lori. Have a great week.
Your farmhouse is so pretty and festive for summer Cindy and your framed flag is the cherry on top. I always love seeing your country porch. I could spend an entire weekend hanging out there with you sipping on lemonade and sharing stories. Happy Sumer my friend.
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I would LOVE to sit and sip with you Kim. We’d have the best time. Thank you for the sweet compliments too. I’m grinning from ear to ear.