Stunning Houseboat in Seattle

I must admit I am a bit jealous of Sue, the owner of this Seattle houseboat. The idea of living near water in a cozy home really sounds good to me. It gets better for me with the fact that this houseboat isn't in a tropical place as I couldn't live in constant hot weather. I think Josh and I would be very happy in this home, except it is not where God wants us right now. 

Travel Destination: Santorini

Photo by Mark Reyfman

When I was a kid, I went on a cruise to the Greek Islands with my family and the place I remember the most is Santorini. I don't think there is another place like this in the world, it may resemble Positano, Italy but they are quite different. Santorini's all-white architecture by the sea is the perfect canvas for reflections of the sun and the ocean. I would love to go back and see this island with my grown-up eyes. Fun fact: this island is a remnant of a big volcanic explosion.

Of course the other thing I remember is the intense heat and how my dad managed to gulp down a big glass of orange juice and order a second one before the waiter even left the table. Lastly, I definitely didn't forget the mule ride to the top.

Charlotte: A Wooden Boat Story

Last night, Josh and I watched Charlotte: A Wooden Boat Story. A documentary about craftsmanship, tradition, community and the love of the sea. I found it on Hulu and I had never heard of it but the description said it was about boats and that was good enough for me to give it a try as both Josh and I fantasize about going on a long boat trip to several countries one day. 

This film was amazing, beyond expectations. 

It is set in Martha's Vineyard, MA and it follows the story of two men, Ross and Nat who established a boatyard in 1980 for building and designing traditionally built wooden boats, which became a success. After a long time of building beautiful boats for others, Nat decides to build a 50 foot boat of his own for use by family and friends.   

The technique, determination, hard work, and patience is astonishing. Throughout the movie we get to see really gorgeous boats built by hand from these men and passed on to their owners and into sea. It is really something beautiful to see these boats come to life. 

Laranjeiras Summer House

This Summer Residence by Fernanda Marques Arquitetos Associados located in the southern coast of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is open space and tropical flora heaven.

I'm in love with the natural feel from all the plants and flowers that surround and accompany this residence, as well as the peacefulness that comes from the water from the pool and the sea nearby. 

The extensive use of glass invites natural light to come from all angles and creates a feeling of being outdoors while being indoors.

I also love the nautical touch from the the wood, the boat, and the stripes in the Living/TV Room.

Nautical Style