I have always loved looking at beautiful houses. As a child I daydreamed about living in a fairytale castle; today I live in a modest, newer home in a typical neighborhood. I’m grateful for my home even though it’s not perfect.
I don’t have an ornate fence, a stone path, perfectly manicured landscaping, an iron gate or an old-fashioned lantern by a storybook front door. And while all those things are lovely, I’m content without them.
I’ve lived in charming homes and great neighborhoods over the years, and I’ve learned that living within your means feels far better than trying to maintain a showplace you can’t truly afford. I don’t long for those houses—I simply admire their beauty.
I really enjoy a Sunday drive-by, and afterward I return to my own happy life in a normal home and neighborhood.
To celebrate the arrival of autumn, let’s enjoy a beautiful fall day in Seattle!
It was such a lovely late-September day that much of this tour became a walk instead of a drive. My oldest and youngest joined me, which made the outing louder but more fun—trying to be stealthy with a bouncing 10-year-old is impossible, but I wouldn’t trade the company for quiet photos.
Those red cowgirl boots I wore were pretty noisy on the sidewalk—sneakers would have been smarter for slipping closer to fences and hedges. I’m only joking; I’m discreet and respectful on these strolls.
Isn’t this a charming little nest? There’s more to see—let’s keep walking.
Another wing appears around the corner—this house keeps revealing itself.
It feels more like a villa than a house—the most delicious shade of yellow. Keep walking; it doesn’t stop here.
Sigh. A very grand villa indeed.
The house continues around the back, with a balcony that overlooks—
Ta da! The Seattle skyline—hardly a bad view to complain about.
Onward to another neighborhood. That villa was stunning but a little large—let’s see what else appears on this autumn walk.
I love this modest curved picket fence—less fancy, but full of charm.
This little gate and its sweet sign are priceless. Do you name your house? I’ve always thought it would be fun—mine might be “Spider Manor.”
This courtyard felt a bit more formal. The gate was locked, so I admired it from outside—if it had been open, I still wouldn’t have entered without ringing the bell. There could be dogs behind it.
This one looks like something out of a storybook—hobbit-like and whimsical. That pointed door is irresistible.
I zoomed in for a closer look—such a charming entrance.
This porch is lovely—I’ve always wanted one like it.
A small entry and dormer with appealing architectural details—unique houses make walking through neighborhoods so enjoyable.
Many of these homes are set behind gates and hedges, keeping them private from the sidewalk.
Look at these vines creeping across the brick—already starting to turn color for fall.
It would have been fun to peek inside when the delivery person dropped a package, but privacy rules kept me outside admiring the exterior.
This blue house is gorgeous—the layered shingle tones are delightful. I can picture an attic room at the top that would make a perfect artist studio, craft room, or a cozy “mom cave.”
The views in these neighborhoods are incredible—some homes look out over Puget Sound, and on this day a cruise ship drifted by like a neighbor in the front yard.
We’ll resume our Sunday drive next week. I’ve got more charming places to show you, including a front yard with giant chess pieces and another house my husband declared his favorite. Tomorrow we’ll be back with inside tours.
Where do you go on Sunday drives in the fall?
These houses are in Queen Anne and Magnolia in Seattle.
Do you enjoy Sunday drives as much as I do? If so, you might enjoy browsing past drive-by posts from previous years.
Now go find the rest of the 31 Day contributors and enjoy more autumn inspiration.