COTE DE TEXAS: A Holiday Weekend Giveaway!

A Holiday Weekend Giveaway!

 

 

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The Cotton Eye Joe at the Sayles Ranch Guesthouses

You may remember about two years ago, Cote de Texas had a giveaway for a weekend at the Sayles Ranch Guesthouses in Abilene, Texas. The owners, The Browders, had just completed their newest addition to their guest houses, the “Cotton Eye Joe” and wanted to celebrate it with the giveaway.  Terry Browder did much of the renovation himself – and judging by the comments, everyone loved it.  Since that time, Terry has been hard at work on two new guest houses – The Dance Hall and the Cottage Clare.   He has generously donated another free weekend to the winner of this latest giveaway.

Located in Abilene, Texas, the Sayles Ranch Guesthouses offers a luxurious alternative to travelers.  Instead of staying at a local hotel or motel, visitors stay at one of their private houses – each restored by Terry.  All of their properties are located about five minutes from downtown in the National Register of Historic Places neighborhood called Sayles Boulevard.  The guest houses come in all different sizes, and each is uniquely decorated, no two are alike.   

The idea for the Sayles Ranch Guesthouses was born 8 years ago when the Browders realized there were only a few chain hotels such as Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn in Abilene – a moderately sized city of 120,000.   Terry felt there was a need for something “more” for travelers to his city.  He and his wife began by buying their neighbor’s house – which they remodeled and furnished and rented out on a nightly basis.  They now have 10 furnished guest rentals (with one new one currently being restored) – all within a 2 to 3 block area!  Amazing!! 

 

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 Abilene, a gateway to the west, is located in the middle of Texas, between Ft. Worth and Midland.    Last year, one of my besties stayed at the Sayles Ranch Guesthouse when she drove home from Aspen to Houston.   It was the perfect place to break up the long drive from Colorado.   Abilene has many guest attractions, including a zoo and the world famous Frontier Texas museum.   And there are lots of antiques stores for those who like to shop!

Here is a look at the two newest guest houses.  The winner will have her pick of either one for the weekend stay.

I.  Cottage Clare

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The newest edition to the Sayles Ranch Guesthouses is the charming Cottage Clare.  The turquoise and aqua colors hint at what is inside.

 

 

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The front porch has vintage furniture which overlooks the quiet, historic neighborhood.

 

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BEFORE:   Of course, like all the properties, the cottage started out like this!  The roof in the living room was raised to the rafters.

 

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Today, the cottage is a homage to turquoise!  At 1800 sq. ft., the 1938 cottage was named after the Browder’s daughter Clare.   It has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a living room, family room, dining room and a kitchen.  The ceilings were raised in this room to make the area appear larger.  Terry found the chandelier and added the turquoise beads to it.  The wood floors were painted on a diagonal to visually expand the space.  The teal leather chairs came from Z Gallerie.

 

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The bench came from a railway station.  So cute!  Love the tiled art work above it.

 

 

 

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Past the living room is the dining area with its Victorian settee.  The toile print was used throughout the ouse for continuity.   The 19th century dresser was limed gray.

 

 

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In the kitchen, Terry chose to keep the original cabinets because they still look good and fit right in with the décor. 

 

 

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Through the kitchen is the family room, a newer addition, where the painted floor is continued. The large piece is a vintage post office cubby!! Wow. What a statement!

 

 

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Love the high coffee table too. Terry told me this piece is 17th century. No wonder my eye went right to it. It’s an old Jacobean pub table, pegged and mortised – there are no nails. It’s beautiful and really adds character to this room. I also love the sign above the sofa. The wicker chair is an old Ethan Allen piece that Terry painted gray. I swear – I bought this same exact chair for a client (maybe we should paint hers too! hmmm.)

 

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In the master bedroom, the new reproduction bed was painted gray. 

 

 

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The second guestroom has a comfy bed, again it was painted with a gray wash to soften its color.  There are 3 bedrooms in the Cottage Clare.

 

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The guest bath got a darling new, painted console for the sink.  Cute chandelier too!

 

 

#2  “Dance Hall”

The second guesthouse, The Dance Hall, is quite different than the other guesthouses – it began life as a 1950s two story ballet studio.  The Dance Hall takes up the lower level of the building and is just 750 sq. ft.  This guest house is perfect for a smaller group – although it does have two bedrooms and a kitchen.  The upstairs space is The Hay Loft, which is also a part of Sayles Ranch Guesthouses.  A large group that wants privacy could rent out the downstairs and upstairs unit.

 

 

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The dropped acoustical tiled roof was removed and the ceiling now reaches 10” – a great luxury.


 

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Today, the space has a “loft” like appearance.  The tiled floor was removed, exposing the concrete foundation which was painted with stripes.   Doesn’t it resemble a rug?   The cubbie entertainment center came from a turn of the century hardware store.  Love the globe collection – it gives a great vibe to the guesthouse.  Notice the walls – they are book covers!  Terry used this same idea in the Cotton Eye Joe guesthouse, but here he color coordinated the covers. 

 

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Here you can see the book covers on the wall.  What happened to the pages of the books?   I’ll show that later!

 

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And looking the other way – towards the dining area and the kitchen.  On the right – before the kitchen, you can make out a jib door that leads into the utility room.  It is hidden in the book covers!!

 

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The table and benches are in the middle of the living/kitchen area.   The table is shaped like a guitar pick.  Notice the chandelier has Edison bulbs to give it a high tech look.  You can see one of the bedrooms and the bathroom in this picture.

 

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The stainless steel appliances and metal countertops are also high tech looking.  Notice the backsplash – it’s pennies!!!  Terry used 2,700 pennies for the job – costing only $27.00.  Stained glass windows are used for privacy from the nearby street.

 

 

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Here’s a closeup of the pennies backsplash.

 

 

 

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Where in the world would Terry use these doors from a 1957 Chevy pick up truck? 

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Headboards in the master bedroom!!!

 

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Since the truck is the same age as the ballet studio – and they were turquoise – Terry said he had to use them somewhere.  Too cute!!!

 

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This 8 x 10 area serves as the guest bedroom – perfect for kids.

 

 

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In case you were wondering what happened to the pages from all the book covers used on the wall – well, here they are!  Terry put all the pages in this bookcase found in the upstairs unit – The Hayloft.

So, now that you have had time to look at the two newest properties, be sure to check out the Sayles Ranch Guesthouses website – to look at ALL the properties.  Be sure to check out the The City Slickers.  That one is huge and really pretty!   There is one more new guesthouse coming soon – the original Sayles home built for the original Sayles family.  Built in 1889, it’s a Queen Anne Victorian and has six bedrooms.  I can’t wait to see that one!

The Browders much have so much fun – running a “hotel” in their neighborhood.  It’s an interior designer’s dream come true to own so many houses that you can decorate in all different styles.  I would love to do this!   This would be a great idea for someone who lives in the Heights in Houston, or in Galveston – in one of their historic neighborhoods.

GIVEAWAY:

To enter the giveaway – One Free Weekend at either location – The Cottage Clare or The Dance Hall - please visit the Sayles web site and let me know which one of their 10 guest houses is your favorite.  Then, come back here and leave me a comment telling me your favorite guest house.  That’s it!

The winner will get to pick the weekend stay at either the Cottage Clare or the Dance Hall.

The Sayles Ranch Guesthouses web site is at:  http://www.saylesranch.com/our-homes/

Be sure to look at both page 1 AND page 2 of all the different guest houses.

The contest ends Friday night at 11:59 p.m.

 

A huge thank you Terry for your generous giveaway!!!

206 comments :

  1. What a great giveaway! And waht charming beautiful guest houses..could be hard to leave! I love them all and think they were so talented with each cottage but something about the Falling Star is so amazingly cozy and charming...that would be my pick.
    Wonderful!~

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  2. They are all so wonderful. I love the color of turquoise so I would probably pick that one but any would do!

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  3. Wow what a fantastic giveaway! This would be so fun!

    They have some great places. I wish the Sweet Dreams Guesthouse had some pictures- it sounds a bit Shabby Chic which would be fun to stay in!

    I Love Cottage Clare with all her gingerbread cottage charm!

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  4. Wow - what an amazing getaway and giveaway! I think my favorite cottage is the Cottage Clare, although it's hard to pick. Fingers crossed!

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  5. The Landmark..I'm a sucker for victorians!

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  6. Cotton Eye Joe is my favorite!
    stephaniemast@hotmail.com

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  7. I love the book-papered walls and the great room ceiling in Cotton Eye Joe. And the penny backsplash is fantastic!

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  8. Still love the Cotton Eye Joe best. Those quilt backed dining room chairs are amazing.

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  9. My favorite is the Cotton Eye Joe! I love every little detail!

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  10. Love the Cottage Clare and Cotton Eye Joe - tied. Very creative decorating in all of the homes!
    Pat Vogel

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  11. Still Love the Cotton Eyed Joe the best! What a great giveaway.

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  12. What's not to like about any of it? Pennies. I like the kitchen with the pennies. I might be a copy cat, except I'll go high-end and use nickels. What a great idea.

    There's not much inspired out there these days, but this whole place is brilliant. Embracing quirks, using what you have, splurging where appropriate - there are several good lessons in that property.

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  13. City slickers... But when the landmark opens. Wow, can't wait to see it!

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  14. City slickers... But when the landmark opens. Wow, can't wait to see it!

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  15. First of all, Terry and the entire property are amazing! I live in NYC w/ in-laws that live outside of Abilene. I discovered the Sayles Ranch through this blog, actually, and looked for any and all excuses to stay here when we came in town...not b/c I don't love my in-laws, but b/c I wanted to just take in all of the creative work by this team! Cotton Eye Joe would be my favorite guest home to soak in...I love the natural and white elements throughout the house, plus I am absolutely obsessed w/ the painted floors.

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  16. I am crazy for the Dance Hall! How utterly unique each room is! I would be thrilled to stay here!
    I wrote to you a while back but never heard from you--I asked about your daughter's new puppy and was wondering if you would be willing to share where you got that lil' darlin'?

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  17. Wow I was just looking at VRBO's in Texas for a neat place to stay. Cabin Fever would be awesome. It is the perfect mix of masculine and feminine

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  18. Oh my. I did not know about these wonderful places to stay in Abilene. I love them all but really do like Cotton Eye Joe.

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  19. Love the Cottage Clare. Have lived in Abilene and would like an opportunity to revisit. Thanks

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  20. Cotton Eye Joe is my perfect for me but all look wonderful.

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  21. LOVE City Slickers! Every room is wonderful! What a joy it must be to stay there and just soak it up.

    Definitely my kinda place.

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  22. High style in Abilene. What a beautiful getaway!

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  23. Oh, that master bedroom headboard! Yummy!

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  24. I have been a follower of Sayles Ranch for a while now and I just love all their ideas! Cotton Eyed Joe is my favorite!

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  25. A weekend at Dance Hall would be divine.

    Thank you for the giveaway!

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  26. Dance Hall is my choice for a getaway treat!
    High tech and Funky!

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  27. The Cotton Eye Joe is my favorite!

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  28. I would have to say my favorite guest house is City Slickers. It looks like something out of the pages of Better Homes and Gardens. I'd never want to leave the house to explore the city! : )

    Thanks for the chance to win a weekend getaway in one of these fabulous homes. It would be a vacation I would never forget!

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  29. Cotton eye Joe is still my favotite. The Sayles are so talented! I love their vision!
    Karen
    karlight52@yahoo.com

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  30. City Slickers look swanky. Love to have a little weekend get away at any of those swell spots. It would be fun to have a little re-union! How clever is Terry and how kind to host a give-away.
    Joni - Thank-you! I am keeping my fingers crossed.
    pve

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  31. I have to say that Cottage Clare would be a wonderful retreat!

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  32. They're all so fun. The cotton eye joe was my favorite the last time that you did this, but Cottage Clare is lovely, too. Great Giveaway!

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  33. I stayed in City Slickers in 2010 and Cottage Clare in 2011. Terry has done a wonderful job with all his houses. I would have to say that City Slickers has been my favorite so far. They are well worth staying in. Thanks for the great give away!!!!

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  34. All are lovely and creative. City Slickers is my favorite!

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  35. I went and looked but came back to Cottage Clare - definitely my favorite although all are fabulous!

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  36. All the homes are beautiful but I really like "Cotton Eye Joe". Thanks for sharing such a generous giveaway!

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  37. What a wonderful give away. I love the Cotton Eye Joe but they are all very beautiful.

    rgsterrett@comcast.net

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  38. Cottage Clare would be my pick!

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  39. City Slickers is my favorite - what a fantastic property! Thank you for the generous offer - we would love to visit!

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  40. As my 4 year old granddaughter says"Grandmama loves turquoise!" so my fav can only be Cottage Clare. What incredible creativity from Terry!His website is total eye candy.
    kathrynterrell@cox.net

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  41. they are all very creative but I liked city slickers best.
    lynnmccabe@verizon.net

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  42. How cruel to make me choose. Terry knows I love each dear one. So hard. In true Texas fashion, it must boil down to something, so it is between Cotton Eye Joe and the Dance Hall. But for intimacy and coziness, I have to go with the Dance Hall. I need a restful weekend. Candles are lit!

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  43. I love Cotton Eye Joe. How talented...thanks for sharing...what a great giveaway!
    ssg257@gmail.com

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  44. Toooooo fabulous. Please don't throw me into the pot... I live too far away, but wish I didn't.

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  45. The Dance Hall is my favorite but it's difficult to pick just one. Thanks for the giveaway!

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  46. Decisions, decisions, decisions! I've always wanted to stay at the Cotton Eye Joe until...the Cottage Clare came along. Maybe it should be a coin toss! Maybe I could just run back and forth! Ok, it's a deal, The Cottage Clare. I love how much fun they have with each property and can only imagine how pretty the neighborhood is to stroll through in the evening. Thanks to everyone!

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  47. Do not want to stay at any of them. No thank you. Talk about tacky... these are it.
    Kat

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  48. Hi
    I like the Cottage Clare. I live in Alberta Canada so would not be able to get there unless we had a trip planned. If I get to Texas I would love to stay there. What fun to be able to decorate so many houses different ways.

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  49. So many details in all of them, makes it hard to choose! I love the Saylse Ranch for all the conveniences in the house....but for interior eye candy, I'd have to choose the Dance Hall!
    Thanks for sharing a very cool place....

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  50. My kind of giveaway!Fingers are crossed.
    This is a wonderful concept; what fun to pull it all together, as they did.
    I think I'll have to pick the Cotton-Eyed Joe -- the name alone conjures memories of my youth. thanks.

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  51. Absolutely adore her decorating style and this would be a great way to stay for any vacation! I've always wanted to go antiquing in Texas....

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  52. I love the Cottage Clare for my girlfriend getaway!

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  53. I went to college in Abilene and loved driving down Sayles Blvd. Love all of them, but City Slickers might have to be my favorite.

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  54. Joni I ADORE what they have accomplished at Sayles Ranch! Every image is a delight. Those first two grey washed beds, wow!

    Don't enter me in the contest as I won't be going anywhere for awhile; rehabbing & recovering from a 2nd surgery!

    xoxo
    Karena

    Art by Karena

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  55. I have two favorites: Cotton Eye Joe and Dance Hall. I love how you did the floors and the contemporary edge against Southwest comfort. Great design style!

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  56. I think the Sayles Ranch is my favorite. I love the rustic look to it and being an abilene resident, that pool is perfect for our super hot summers!

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  58. Sorry, had a typo in comment above. I would love to try out either of the new houses, Cottage Clare or Dance Hall. The Hideaway is also still appealing for a solo adventure.

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  59. Love them all, but your photos of Cottage Clare makes that my favorite!
    Thanks for the opportunity!

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  60. The kitchen at Dance Hall is cool!! It may be imperfect (to my eye) in a number of ways but that's the thing about personal design expression - who cares! It's the emotion that counts and this sure has that. The table and benches are really interesting and the wood is beautiful. It's very stirring, the whole kitchen!

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  61. oh my what a gracious giveaway.. I could live in the city slickers house.. it's gorgeous.. But i Love Cottage Clare. It's welcoming and warm and comfortable. A real charmer. Thanks for hosting this wonderful opportunity! Good luck to all. xo marlis

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  62. The Dance Hall is my favorite. What great ideas for re-purposing great flea market finds! Thanks for this great post.

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  63. What a charming guest house! beautiful dahhling

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  64. The bed is so wonderful and I love it.So interesting.

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  65. Wow these are fab! It's a tie between City Slickers and Cottage Clare! What a relaxing weekend retreat.

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  66. Dance Hall is screamin' cute and fun. Wouldn't wanna live there in all that but sure would love to visit. The pennies are brilliant, the books...i gotta do that somewhere...even the back of a bookcase or a paneled screen with just the spines. So clever.

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  67. OH EM GEE!! I cannot believe how cute. My daughter graduated 2 years from Abilene Christian University and I never knew about these guest houses. Now, I no longer go to Abilene often. BUT I WOULD GO IF I WON!! I love Cottage Clare. I have drooled over every picture for the last hour. Must get out of my pj's. Once again, your post made my day.

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  68. I feel a "Road Trip" coming on...Abilene! Ingenuity just "reels me in" and I'm hooked on these wonderful rooms. Since we have to make a selection..guess "Cottage Clare" would be my choice. I do believe I've seen Terry "posting" before..what an eye!!(Cotton Eye!) franki fmparde@gmail.com

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  69. I like the Sayles Ranch house. Love the braided rug by the bed! I have never been to Texas......Spring time in Texas with the bluebonnets in bloom....sounds lovely.

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  70. Love the painted floor in the cottage and the use of turquoise! ...the guest bath is pretty fabulous too!

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  71. How do I chose just one?! Love all of them... probably favorite (as of 10:40am) is the Cottage Clare. How fun! tracyfisher418 at yahoo.com

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  72. I like so many features in the houses but Cottage Claire with the turquoise is my favorite although I would love to tour them all!!

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  73. Love your blog and thank you for the give away. Looks like a WONDERFUL place! I really loved them all, but City Slickers was a big WOW for me! I would be happy in any of them though! THanks- hope I win!
    laurieandvance@bellsouth.net

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  74. As a diehard born and bred in Texas cowgirl, the "Dance Hall" is my dream getaway. Not just for me either, I would share the weekend with my girlfriends. The truck doors headboard has got to be hands-down the most creative interior design re-invention use of any auto door ever! As a book lover, an extra plus would be snooping through all those books in the Hayloft or just reading the book covers and spines on the wall. Terry, a "tip of the cowboy hat" to you for your spectacular talent! xoxo

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  75. They are all so wonderful in their own way - so hard to choose. I guess my No 1 would be City Slickers followed by Cotton Eye Joe - I love it so much - could probably live there:)

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  76. LOVE, love, love the City Slickers!!! (also loved the movie so it's very meaningful). I would love to stay in any of them though so keeping my fingers crossed!

    Sheila Irwin
    sheilairwin@sbcglobal.net

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  77. I love Cottage Clare. It looks so inviting, and I sense an air of serenity and peacefulness.

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  78. Wow! All of these are so fun and creative while inviting and comfortable-looking. Since I already have a log cabin retreat, I'd go for a little more feminine cottagey look, and Cottage Clare is it. So adorable, but not too frilly that my husband would object. Second choice would be Cotton Eye Joe - still love that, but, really, they're all great. Love all the re-purposed antiques, and that backsplash of pennies was inspired!

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  79. City Slickers has a pool and it would be great to host a summer bbq there! B. Almanza
    (balmanza7@sbcglobal.net)

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  80. They are all wonderful...I love The Hideout!

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  81. It's like asking which issue of Architectural Digest is your favorite. Each house has so much character and charm. The owner's creativity is boundless. The City Slickers guesthouse screams 10 friend sleepover- I'm cooking!

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  82. City Slickers is my favorite!

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  83. These are just so imaginative. I would love to stay in City Slickers or Cottage Clare...so charming!

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  84. Wow..Great place!
    Cabin Fever is my choice.
    GS

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  85. I would love the City Slicker...room for my family and then my texas family! A few years ago, I found my dad via the internet, he did not know I existed. He writes childrens books in Texas, and I have discovered an amazing Texas family I did not know I had. It would wonderful to have a place to go and visit and meet all of these family members! Fingers Crossed!!

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  86. These are all lovely and would be fun to stay in for a change of scenery! I love the City Slickers cottage. kjrowe@bellsouth.net

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  87. I am inspired by the creative backsplashes at Sayles Ranch! I love the license plates at the Hayloft, and would love to stay there and get a look up close. The pennies at the Dance Hall are ingenius! And where can I get a guitar pick table and benches?! megannashville@yahoo.com

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  88. Joni, I love the cottage Claire. The Leather chairs arranged in a circle is so welcoming. The kitchen is charming too. Really all of them are beautiful!

    Thank you for this give-a-way!
    Lissy Parker

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  89. Well, since I have personally stayed in and enjoyed City Slickers, that has to be my favorite! It is such a relaxing house - it just seems to invite you to come in, take your shoes off, and stay awhile! Love what Terry is doing with these homes!

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  90. City Slickers looks so inviting and cozy! Perfect for a family retreat or girls getaway.

    laurenstephens423@yahoo.com

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  91. I have a love affair with globes, so I would love to spend a weekend at the The Dance Hall. Their collection puts my three globes to shame.

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  92. I LOVE Cottage Claire! It is YUMMY!!!

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  93. Oh boy - this is a hard one. But I'd have to say that I love the Cottage Claire. It's beautiful. Every one of these guest houses was designed so beautifully and uniquely. It was very hard to choose.

    Thanks for the chance to win a weekend there!

    Linda

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  94. Love it all, but my favorite is The Dance Hall. Hope I win!

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  95. LOVE the Sayles Ranch because of the POOL!!! But the Cotton Eye Joe is also FABULOUS!!!! Fingers crossed:):) XO, Pinky

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  96. I choose the Cotton Eye Joe.
    Thanks for hosting this!

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  97. I love City Slickers - heck, I'd live in them all!

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  98. They're all amazing, but City Slickers is my favorite!

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  99. Hey,my comment never makes it...am I doing something wronge? Anyway...Cotton Eye Joe is a dream... fabrics and floors...all amazing really, Thanks for the opportunity.
    Susie K
    Keckse@msn.com

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  100. Cotton Eye Joe is my favorite. Loved the Dance Hall too and the formality of the Sayers House, but no, Cotton Eye Joe is it. Thanks.

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  101. I like The Cottage Clare the best...what a fun getaway it would be! Thanks!

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  102. They're all so wonderful! What terrific vision the owners have! My favorite of all is the Cottage Clare. Very soft and welcoming. I would feel right at home!

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  103. oh my goodness, i love them all! City Slickers is my favorite (but really, they all are incredible!)

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  104. Love Cottage Clare When I lived in Abilene I loved driving down Sayles Blvd and looking at the great houses I live now outside Waco so this would be a great getaway trip.

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  105. Cabin Fever is my favorite with the painted floors and great accessories!!! Thanks for the tour-it would be a great weekend away!

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  106. Love the decor of Cotton Eye Joe but would be very happy to spend a weekend in the Dance Hall:)

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  107. What a treat to find an inn that has style! So many have frills and lace and are completely void of pizazz! I love Dance Hall - the globes and vintage furniture - love! I live in NJ but would gladly travel to TX to stay here!
    Kelly

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  108. Obviously Terry is a very gifted renovator/designer. I love all of their homes. However, I was gasping for air at the Cotton Eye Joe living room. I think I have to live there forever.

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  109. COTTON EYE JOE is my favorite. I was smitten with this space from the first time you wrote about it. The scale of the furniture makes such a statement. I was surprised they used such large pieces but they work!! Also the quilt patterns on the floor were amazing!! Crossing my fingers that I can head to Abilene soon!!

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  110. Wow! These houses are beautiful! Cotton Eyed Joe and Cottage Clare are tied. How exciting to have a chance to win. Thank you!
    Annamj08@gmail.com

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  111. They must have had so much fun decorating these cottages!

    My favorite is Cotton Eye Joe, but I would choose the Dance Hall, because it is so western, something different for me. I would love to drive from Phoenix to the big antique show in Texas. I would also like to go antiquing in Dallas again and go shopping in Houston and perhaps meet Joni! So many fun places to go....Add Abilene! Thank you to Terry for offering this great prize!

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  112. What an exciting and generous giveaway...loved the Cottage Claire and would love to be there up close and personal! Thank you!
    ddscott@frontiernet.net

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  113. They are all beautiful, but Cotton Eye Joe is my favorite. Thanks for the giveaway!

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  114. My husband and I were married this past April just south of Abilene in the historic chapel in Buffalo Gap, Texas, with a reception at the guest houses on Perini Ranch, and we stayed at a Sayles Ranch Guesthouse on our wedding night! It was the aptly named Hideout, and it was just spectacular. So calm and peaceful, and just around the corner from Starbucks. My father grew up on Sayles Street in Abilene, and we have family property out by Fort Phantom. Abilene is a great town. I was so happy to read about this on your blog!

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  115. We'd love to dance in the Dance Hall. What great attention to quirk and color. I thank my mom for directing us to your guesthouses... She was so excited and shares our appreciation... Helping her understand how to post here.. Her name is Rachel, and she will for sure be commenting soon.
    -Joe & Michele, KS

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  116. Wow ! What vision,I love their creativity. Cotton Eye Joe is still my favorite, but I enjoyed them all. The Saylers are masters of the mix. Thanks guys!

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  117. I would love to decorate and rent houses like these. What a great business! All of the houses are unique, but I would love to stay at The Cotton Eye Joe.

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  118. My sincere thanks to you, Joni, for posting about the Sayles Ranch Guesthouses! You did a splendid job, as always. Also, thank you to everyone who has posted and for your kind and generous words. I would like to invite you all to consider planning a "Girlfriend Weekend" or a "Family Weekend" to Abilene. Our properties really are ideal for getting away with friends or family and having a special time together. Life is short and this would make 2012 especially meaningful! Antiquing is a great adventure here, and we have some of the best steaks in Texas--or just sit out on the screened porch or by the pool and laugh and share good times together. www.saylesranch.com

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  119. Tough choice! I think it's between City Slickers or Cottage Clare??? Put me down in the giveaway for...... CITY SLICKERS!! Thanks for the giveaway and good luck to me;)

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  120. All of the guest houses are so beautiful and I just love all the unique accents! I'd say my favorite is either cotton eyed joe or the cottage clare. What a great giveaway!

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  121. LOVE the apothecary cabinet (?) in Falling Star Lodge. Would love to see it in person!

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  122. I fall in love with ALL of Terry's properties, but my favorite today is Cottage Claire. Staying there would be a time-warp type of experience, allowing me to be drawn into the charming decor of the Victorian era. Such an intruiging place decorated with consideration that each detail provides.

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  123. I still love the Cotton Eye Joe. Great giveaway!

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  124. City Slickers! I think there was a salt water swimming pool mentioned... yes! great for a summer trip!

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  125. Cottage Clare is remarkable, as my imagination can take me all the way from Texas to Paris with all the universally soothing and transforming hues of turquoise / Mediterranean aqua. Equally relevant and confidently at home in vintage, retro modern or the latest up to the minute contemporary haunts.

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  126. Cottage Clare is beautiful but I still love the Cotton Eye Joe as much today as when you first showed it. I just about fell out of my chair that day because it was so gorgeous.

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  127. WOW how nice are they, I remember this from last year..

    LOVE City Slicker, but Cotton Eye Joe is awesome too (hubby & son's names).

    I have never been to Texas, unless the Houston airport counts, it would make a great trip as both kids are now out of the nest and living in CA, and I don't see them enough !!

    All the best,
    Kathy :)

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  128. I just found you via upscaledownhome. I'm so glad sarah pointed me in your direction.

    I have to say it's very, very hard to pick a favorite. I LOVE bits and pieces of each guesthouse, but if I had to choose I'd say the dancehall- the penny backsplash and bookcover walls are awesome....and that headboard. WOW. the sayles really have a great eye for the unique. it all works!

    Can't wait to have a further look around and I'm now following! Thanks for having me.

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  129. I love cabin fever. It looks like a home.

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  130. OH MY GOSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    How to choose. Love them all. But I guess I have to pick Dance Hall.
    It is just perfect for a quirky turquoise loving Texas girl like me with those pennies, books and truck doors. Fantastic job!

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  131. Who wouldn't enjoy staying in any of the guesthouses?! My favorite is Cotton Eye Joe. My son goes to college in Abilene so a weekend visit would be such a treat.
    Angie

    edmondsons1@att.net

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  132. I like the Hideout. It would really be great in snow in the mountains. Unfortunately there are no mountains near Abilene.

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  133. The Dance Hall is my abbbbsolute fave!!!!!!!

    I found your website while searching for alternative headboard ideas!!! I have since decided to plaster my accent wall with book covers, in the exact color palate used in the dance hall!

    ..and how wonderful and romantic that it used to be a ballet studio!!

    KUDOS!!!
    xoxo,
    a

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  134. These were darling, but I would not be able to travel even if I won. However, I'm in love with the two large wine bottles. The one in the first house is sitting on the table in the living room and in the second home on the table behind the guitar shaped table. is there any way to find out where they were purchased? thank you, wenda scott, maggieandme52@yahoo.com

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  135. Love the Cotton Eye Joe! Great Giveaway.

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  136. Awesome! I would love to see the pennies! The dance hall would be so much fun to experience but I do love them ALLL!

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  137. If you are going to pick a Rachel, I'm the original. I picture myself on the front sidewalk walking up to the front door of Cottage Clare. Is it a dream or is it for real? Thanks

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  138. My daughter attends college in central Texas(1200 miles from home) I have made 3 purposeful trips to move her in and out, with little time to explore the sights and lively history of Texas. Relaxing on one of those brown leather couches in the "Cotton Eye Joe" is the type of visit to Texas that I have in mind...

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  139. The City Slicker is just my style!

    jkg4121@att.net

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  140. the bunk house is my favorite!

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  141. The "City Slickers" cabin is my favorite! And i am from Abilene!

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  142. I love, love, love the Dance Hall! So clever with all the details. Especially the stained concrete floors with the aqua/teal stripes!

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  143. Cottage Clare is wonderful--my favorite.

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  144. I LOVE the Dance Hall!!! I'm from Texas....however, we have recently relocated to Washington state. It was such a pleasure looking over your blog!

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  145. I am very interested in In the master bedroom, the new bed was painted gray reproduction. design a very nice bed, but it's more like a cool curtain that many signatures. lol

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  146. Amazing..such attention to detail in each property. Very talented people. I love the Cottage Clare -everything about it. Never been to Abilene but what a fantastic way to spend a few nights getting to know this part of Texas.
    Thanks for the chance!
    Sharon
    skmatte@aol.com

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  147. All of the homes make me purr! Just beautiful! I would choose the "City Slickers" and am about to e-mail a link to the Sayles Ranch site to my husband so that we can use some of their fabulous ideas as inspiration while we decorate our first home in Lubbock!

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  148. My nephew has moved to Abilene for work. I would love to stay in one of these beautiful houses and visit with him!
    Diane Herrington

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  149. I just love the Dance Hall. There are so many creative ideas in this home. I love the books on the walls, and the penny backsplash, WOW

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  150. Oh how fun! I would love to stay in any of the beautiful houses but I think The Sayles Ranch or the City Slickers would be a great meeting spot for my sisters family who lives in Omaha NE. and our Family who live in Spokane WA. hudsonbeebe@yahoo.com

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  151. Cotton Eye Joe and Cottage Clare are my absolute favorites, but I wouldn't turn down a night in ANY of them! Terry is SO gifted!!

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  152. Cottage Clare for me! Turquoise, gray, I swear, nothing more beautiful and so much character. Furniture on the front porch to watch the world go by! Cottage Clare take me away!

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  153. I think I'm even going to change my change from Odessa to Abilene! It'll be worth it to stay in Cottage Clare!

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  154. Never know if I can win these things because I don't have a website and I can't leave my email out here in the open for everyone to see! I love the Cotton Eye Joe however and would even like to steal some decorating ideas from it. However decorated these places was so clever.

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  155. I love the City Slicker! I was looking for a place to do a prayer retreat when I called Terry. He told me to register for the free weekend so guess I'll start praying now to win :0)

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  156. Whew! So many great ideas in these houses, my head is spinning!! Cotton Eye Joe is my favorite, though. Just dazzling! And, what a truly fun idea for a giveaway.

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  157. Cottage Clare is definitely my favorite- LOVE the room with the leather chairs and taxidermy!

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  158. I love them all but the Cotton Eye Joe is my favorite. Chic and rustic at the same time.

    jules.tx@sbcglobal.net

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  159. well I cannot get any photos to show up on the Cottage Clare...even tho the photo thumbnails show up on all the others. So after reading the descriptions I think the Cottage Clare would be my choice, with all the awesome colors of turquoise, blues, grays, and the mention of "girlfriend getaway!"
    what a sweet giveaway!
    Cathy B pbprojecthope at yahoodotcom

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  160. I love the wild and crazy, unique Dance Hall. How creative!!!! Love them all buy Dance Hall is indeed my favorite.

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  161. House is really gorgeous. Really exquisite. Lovely!

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  162. Ooooo Cotton Eyed Joe had me at "Hello"! LOVE IT!!

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  163. I am in love with each property. I don't know how anyone could choose a favorite. City Slicker is pretty special and with the pool, it puts it at the top of the list. Every detail and comfort has been seen to, and the bonus is that it is in Abilene, a great place to visit, to shop and to eat! Thanks for this wonderful giveaway....Blessings

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  164. Cotton Eye Joe I think but impossible to reallly pick as they are all amazing!!

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  165. That looks so nice! I love the ambience, I bet it makes you feel so relaxed and comfortable!

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  166. LOVE the Cotton Eye Joe. those floors and that bathroom are amazing!!

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  167. Pick ONE? How is that possible? I've always wanted to stay in one of their guest homes! So beautiful and unique! But okok, IF I must pick one---I'll go with Cottage Clare! (Heres hoping I win...ACU weekend is coming up!)~ Peggy

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  168. Cottage Claire would be great for a girl's weekend!

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  169. My favorite is the Cotton Eye Joe.

    Margie at

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  170. Wow! All are just beautiful! I'd go with the Cottage Clare but I would be happy with any. What a talent to put those homes together with such style and character!

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  171. I love the Cottae Clare - just lovely. They all are. My sister lives in Merkel (little town outside of Abilene) and it would be a great weekend for the two of us.

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  172. The Cottage Clare

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  173. Not sure if my comment took place..."as unknown" above. Love Cottage Clare.

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  174. *** The OUTSIDE of COTTAGE CLARE is charming, but not usually our "style"... Upon entering however, I thought, "I'D L*O*V*E to stay & "recharge our batteries here", to to speak!!! It's sooooo delightful!!! And I think my Jim would reeeeally loike it too!!!

    WOW!!! What a GREAT, most GENEROUS GIFT!!!

    Many thanks for the opportunity to possibly get back to Texas (we lived there for 3 years, at Ft. Hood)...

    Linda in AZ *
    bellesmom1234@comcast.net

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  175. My husband and I got the chance to stay in Cotton Eye Joe and it was so simply gorgeous I wish we could have stayed longer!
    However, I think Dance Hall has always been my fav because of the quirky style. I just love it!

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  176. *** "DUH!!! HELLO to ME!"... Yeah, welllll, I just re-read your "contest rules", Joni... SOOOO, I sashayed (happily) back yonder & discovered we'd ALSO like the COTTON EYE JOE!!! That one "spoke" to me most, I do believe!!!

    What fabulous places!!!~~~ I know it HAS to be tons of WORK, BUT it sure does SOUND (& LOOK!) LIKE fun RUNNING IT ALL!!! (There's nothing like the FRESH, OUTDOOR AIR, IMHO!!!)...

    Warmest 2012 greetings to ALL, m' friend!!!

    Linda in AZ *
    bellesmom1234@comcast.net

    ("P.S."~~~ Sorry Joni, I don't know HOW to "TWITTER" or do "FACEBOOK" thing, or ANY of that "fancy-schmancy" stuff... I'm just LUCKY to be able to do THIS!!! Smiles!!!~~~ XO, Linda ***

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  177. Loved them all! Cottage Clare would be my pick!

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  178. Wow! I remember when you posted the Cotton Eye Joe Guest House. I fell in lust with it! Now seeing these two new ones, I'm even more in lust. their website doesn't show some of the Guest House photos. Can't wait to see more. Trying to decide which one is a favorite will drive me mad. Turquoise is my signature color and I adore that reproduction bed. But I am in love with those book covers on the walls and the penny backsplash in the Dance Hall! Wow! How can one choose? How about one night in each -- Cottage Claire and Dance Hall?

    ~ Victoria in Bedford
    vaustin08@gmail.com

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  179. Terry always does an amazing job and has such a great eye! My choice would be the Dance Hall!

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  180. This guy is uber talented!
    I have the same acid stained concrete floor in my garage and now I'm wanting to paint stripes on it.
    I'm just wowed by this guy's talent.
    Really really good!!
    And by the way, I was born in Texas, Corpus Christi, Texas!!
    I really should come and visit my birth state!!!
    Great Giveaway Joni, please come and enter mine, you will love the selection of gorgeous fabrics, I promise!

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  181. No question about it ~ the City Slickers. Thanks.
    birdfromky@aol.com

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  182. All are unique in their own way, but it would be absolutely fab to stay a weekend in the Cottage Clare!
    meador4@comcast.net

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  183. WOW! They're all gorgeous and so unique but the Cotton Eye Joe would be my favorite.
    absolutau1 at aol dot com

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  184. Cottage Claire would have to be my choice just for that gorgeous bed. But I need to see the inside of the Dance Hall up close and personal to see if I could ever do those incredible book cover walls.

    vaustin08@gmail.com

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  185. Cotton-Eyed Joe....maybe because the dance is so fun??

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  186. Love both the Dance Hall and Cottage Clare!

    Good luck to all!

    emajyz@yahoo.com

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  187. I love Cottage Clare! The painted floors are fabulous, and the blues used throughout are so peaceful and serene. I'm intrigued by the penny backsplash, too -- do you happen to know how the installation was done? Were the pennies glued to a mesh backing and then installed the same way as a prefabricated mosaic tile backsplash?

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  188. What a cool place! Thank you for the introduction. So well worth a visit for the design alone. Nice to see that someone had some fun.

    Cheers,

    Claudia

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