Tomorrow, October 4th, is my 40th birthday...I'm not sure exactly how I feel about that right now, but overall, I feel blessed to be alive, healthy and happy. Due to the challenges of the last few months, rather than have a blowout, crazy party with hangover to boot, my wonderful husband surprised me with a weekend getaway to the beautiful and quaint town of Galena, Illinois. Galena is full of history, having been settled in 1826. I felt as if we were stepping back in time. We stayed The Irish Cottage, a lovely inn complete with an authentic Irish bar that was reassembled in Galena from Ireland.
Saturday, we had an opportunity to shop at all these little fantastic boutiques and antique shops (yes, my husband obliged me for the day). I especially loved Vignettes, a unique home accessories and decor store. I was also very excited about my opportunity to meet Jody McGill, artisan jewelry designer to the stars. Her shop is exactly as you would picture it; beautiful, eclectic and full of unique and intricate creations. Vintaj Earth is also located in Galena. It was such a great experience to actually see all the wonderful brass jewelry designs up close and personal. Very inspirational.
We enjoyed a few afternoon cocktails, had our tarot cards read (I always knew it...I AM a high priestess), did a little more shopping then ended a great day with a fabulous meal at Fried Green Tomatoes. Yes, we did have some, but they were Italian style, not the traditional southern style to which I am accustomed. BUT they were still incredible.
I'd like to thank my husband for sharing a great 40th birthday weekend with me. It was a much needed getaway, and will provide me with special memories forever...
The Irish Cottage
A WARM "COFFEE" WELCOME
BEAUTIFUL FALL COLORS
ONE OF MY FAVORITE BOUTIQUES
THE FAMOUS JODY MCGILL
VINTAJ...SO BEAUTIFUL!
THE HIGH PRIESTESS CARD
PHIL READY FOR A BEER AFTER SHOPPING
THANK YOU FOR A BEAUTIFUL WEEKEND...
Sounds like you had a great birthday! Loved your description of events. - Mary Ann
ReplyDeleteYay Sheila ..Hapoiest Birthday Kindred! What a wonderful post..full of such beauty and joy and dazzling advntures...WOW!! That was was fun!gorgeous photos..and so lovely to see you!
ReplyDeleteWishing you a Birthday year of sparkles and blessings at every corner..and many new gifts and adventures ahead for you!
Have a most magical 40th year...what a powerful gateway..enjoy the magic and your newest wings!!
kiki~
Happy belated birthday....you know mine is one day before yours....but looks like you had a much nicer time than I did. (O:(O:
ReplyDeleteYour sure are a lovely 40!!
Xo
JO
Happy belated birthday Shiela! Looks like you had a wonderful birthday weekend getaway. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteJenny
Belated Birthday Honey. I loved the pictures in this post. I'm also having a giveaway be sure to stop by.
ReplyDeleteO.k. friend, how can I have lost your address again!!!??? Can you email it to me? Talk about going to fast like your last post. My college students are almost done already with my courses! Can't believe it, really. Then, I am off til Jan. YAY! So, I can visit more often. Goodness. Forgive me for your present and card being late, just need to see it as extending your lovely time, o.k.? hee hee
ReplyDeleteBlessings and hugs dear