Hors d'oeuvres and the Succulent Suitcase

As I mentioned earlier today, the new suitcase full of succulents was going to be the centerpiece for our wine and hors d'oeuvres table this evening.

As the sun was setting, we had a lovely glass of Italian wine with olives, parmesan and gouda cheese. After all, we are "on vacation!"

The light was magical, the air cool and breezy.

We admired the succulent suitcase. What a find! "Perfect for this outdoor coffee table," Mr. A remarked.

As the light faded, the tractors came out in the neighboring vineyards. It was fascinating at first watching them go up and down the rows until we realized they were probably spraying! Even though we are far enough away, we headed inside for dinner....

I'm joining Susan for Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer. Thanks Susan for hosting.

Artie over at Color Outside the Lines is having his first ever blog party, so I can't wait to join him for Vignette Friday! Thanks Artie for hosting!

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Succulents in a Suitcase!

Look what I found last weekend at Sienna Antiques in Petaluma.

Although this cement planter isn't an antique, I didn't care because I immediately had plans for it.

Cast from an old suitcase, this thing weighs a ton! I knew it would be great planted with succulents. But first, it had to find a permanent home as it is too heavy to move around.

I decided to put it on this outdoor coffee table. The top is marble, which is great because there are drain holes at the bottom of this container. I don't have to worry about protecting the surface.

After planting the succulents, I got the idea to tuck in some lichen covered branches.

I added the stone candlesticks, brought in a few linen pillows, and voila!

I'm so happy with the final result!

Can't wait to sit here this evening and enjoy the new table top vignette, the view and a glass of wine with hors d'oeuvres.

Mr. A and I are taking a few days off and staying in the country until tomorrow. It's nice to have the time to do a little project like this, and just putter around. We're enjoying this unusual cool summer weather which is nice for working outside in the garden.

I'm joining Susan today at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday.

Then on Tuesday, I'm joining Marty for Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life.

Also, I'll join Tiffany at Making the World Cuter for the first time.

On Wednesday, I'll join Susan at A Southern Daydreamer for Outdoor Wednesday.

Thanks Ladies for hosting!

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