Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Essentially FRENCH




The beautiful cover of this most wonderful book is ready to be opened!


~This 18th century Italian mirror was acquired from a chateau near Paris~ Just one of the many homes featured in this wonderful book detailing homes with classic French style. The author has shared a life long love of France. I too have been captured by the love of all things French!


This simple kitchen table is set and ready for lucky guest! It is, according to the author, Josephine Ryan, found between the ancient towns of Montpellier and Nimes in southern France! It is the home to a renowned antiques dealer and her daughter! Lovely!!!


This photo from the book shows a French daybed with a pillow similar to ones I have made for clients! Simple and serene!


Who doesn't love the unknown of walking slowly down a narrow Street in Avignon in southern France just waiting to see a beautiful residence?


The just right gray/blue color of these shutters invite one to wonder what might be inside the door! Something simple but welcoming! Over the past year, my appreciation for the French ways of life have grown significantly. Last year, I took the most dramatic and inviting holiday I have been blessed to go on! My children, now grown' and all on their on, inspired me, I must say because they continually told me "it is so easy to travel in Europe!". I should have listened earlier but now it seems it is my time to appreciate their encouragement in new ways. If you are looking for a new book on French decor', I highly recommend this book! There are very few new pieces in the decor' though, so you have to be willing to go for the hunt if you have a desire to add a few antique pieces to your collection or get started as a collector of "old" things. You might begin with something simple and useful such as linens, add a monogram and you have a very European touch! What matters most though, is that you enjoy each and every day of life! As I say many times......each day is a gift from God and it should never be wasted feeling down or discouraged about your place on this amazing journey of life! Do you know that God had a plan for your life before you were born and He knows the details of your life! "For you formed my inward parts; You covered me in my Mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest part of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance when as yet there were none of them. How precious are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them!". Psalm 139:13-17 Whether your home is a chateau or a tiny apartment it is a special place because YOU live there! Now......where is that teapot? Tea and your dreams..... Be encouraged today because "dreams really do come true!". The author of this book found hers because she was compelled by the thrill of the find! Be inspired and enjoy!!!