Photo by ILoveButter I'm really excited to share this beautiful thatched roof cottage with you. It's located in Adare, County Limerick, Ireland. I usually don't get too pumped up over bright yellow trim, but on this cottage -- with the dark roof and wall -- I think it really works. Very cheery. The painted gate is an interesting contrast to the stately stone wall, don't you think? It's whimsical, fun and seems to say, "Don't take me too seriously." Delightful. Photo by Ilovebutter I wanted you to see what's on the other side of that marvelous stone wall. Now this is a garden I could love tending. There is so much wonderful going on here. Eye candy for a gardener's soul. Photo by Ilovebutter Let's zoom in on that hanging basket, and flowers on the window sill. And take a closer look at those casement windows. Love those! Photo by Maryaamna And yet another white, thatched roof Irish cottage trimmed in yellow. Is it just me, or is this beyond charming? Many thanks to Maryaamna for allowing me to share her lovely photo. I only use photos that have some rights, or those for which I have permission. The caption on Maryaamna's photo will take you to her Flickr link, or go here to see more of her images. Her food photos are yummy. Speaking of food, I made banana walnut bread yesterday. I baked my first quick bread at the age of ten and I have enjoyed making them ever since. Living at a high altitude, baking can be a challenge, but this recipe turns out great every time, and it is very low in sugar -- one reason I like it so much. We try to limit our sugar intake and I can reduce the sugar in this recipe to 1/3 cup and it's still delicious. I think it's because the recipe calls for 4 bananas; which makes it naturally sweet, not to mention very moist. The other reason I like this particular recipe is that you can quickly whip it up in a large mixing bowl. No mixer needed. You can find the recipe here at Simply Recipes. A great cooking site, if you haven't yet discovered it. If you come over for a visit, we can have a slice of this delicious bread with our tea. :) I found out this morning that I won Elizabeth's giveaway at her blog Just Following Jesus in My Real Life. I'm elated because this is my prize (yes, all of this!). . . and, well, I hardly ever win anything. Thanks SO much Elizabeth. I highly recommend going to Elizabeth's blog to snag her recipe for Cranberry Walnut Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Butter Cream Frosting. She's got photos that will make you want to chomp down on your computer monitor. Really. So, what's new in your cottage? Blessings,