52 FLEA

The Last Lilac Season

2015-05-20T21:26:00.000-04:00

Hello friends...

Thought you might like a peek at our lovely lilacs

as this is our last spring here in the Hudson River Valley.

Once again, these faithful lilacs bring back happy memories,

especially of my Mom and Nana.

We have transplanted some shoots up to the lake house and

hopefully will be able to enjoy these family blooms for many years

to come in the Adirondacks.

Lilacs do well there as they love the cool mountain weather.

Doesn't my antique bee skep look even more fantastic

adorned with these lovely lilacs?

Wishing you all a beautiful season

of pretty blossoms and fun flea markets!

I am off on an exciting adventure with my Dad, sister and brother in law. We are headed to Paris tomorrow for a few days, and then will cruise on the Seine to Normandy. It is Dad's 88th birthday!

...I know, unbelievably lucky!

...feeling blessed and very grateful.

Will take photos!

Paula's Christmas Cottage 2014

2014-12-09T09:53:00.001-05:00

Finally!

Here are some photos from my visit to Paula's cottage

in Connecticut a few weeks ago.

She was 90% decorated at the time...

... everything was so charming and festive!

She found this branch in the back gardens

and mounted it in a vintage iron tree holder.

That white cord on the floor is my Iphone charger....so sorry Paula!

Anyway, she painstakingly wrapped copper wire LED lights around the tree and Voila!

I took a ton of photos and will limit my comments

so you can enjoy the images.

We found those tall iron springs in October at Elephant's Trunk

and each bought 2....at $1 each.

The super tall candles Paula bought at Terrain.

The pillow Paula made from a grain sack

and yes, she knit all those mittens!

While we were out and about shopping Paula bought this angel from Michele at Taken For Granite in Stony Creek.

As soon as we got back to the cottage,

she was up on a stool, on top of the table,

up on her tippy toes to hang it here!

This old porch rail also came from TFG this fall.

Paula hung it on the wall and decorated it the holidays!

These little vagabond mice came from Terrain.

...too cute!

I hope you liked this year's tour

of my very creative friend Paula's Christmas cottage!

Enjoy the rest of the holiday season!

...and a special thank you to those friends who have written to say that they have missed my blog posts or simply wished me well. Your thoughtfulness is deeply appreciated!

:)

For the first time, I am trying to respond to your much appreciated comments here...
not sure if this will work but giving it a go!

Holiday Open House at Taken For Granite in Stony Creek, CT

2014-11-26T19:46:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again!

This is how Taken For Granite sparkled and twinkled

on Friday evening at their Holiday Open House.

It was my birthday weekend and I was delighted

to be able to visit my dear friend Paula in Connecticut.

You know what that means!

Three fun filled days of antiquing,

shopping in the most beautiful boutiques

and catching up with girl friends.

This first post will showcase all the splendor of

Taken For Granite

in Stony Creek, Connecticut.

Enjoy the photos...

...there are a LOT of them!

Michele, the owner and creative genius

behind these imaginative displays

made this darling polka dot ruffled table cloth.

She also created this birch and woodland animals

scene in this giant display case.

Here is Michele and her team of lovely and talented ladies.

Their hospitality, creativity and attention to detail

make shopping here a pleasure.

The open house was a spectacular and fun way

to begin the holiday season!

I wanted to get this post up as quick as possible!

Now, it's back to Thanksgiving preparations

...and snow shoveling!

Next week I hope to share some photos

from Paula's wonderful farmhouse cottage...

all decorated for Christmas in her unique and fanciful style.

You will love it!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Spring Blossoms

2014-05-16T18:12:00.000-04:00

This time of the year...

...my heart sings, my energy level pumps up and I feel inspired.

Does that happen to you too?

Just thought I would pop in to share some quick IPhone photos

that I have taken in the last few days.

I love playing with my lilacs.

If you have followed along these last four years,

you know that our lilacs are family blooms...

some were my grandmother's, Mr. Flea's grandmother's

and the deep double French were my Mom's.

The dogwoods this past week were stunning.

We have just one pink...the rest are white.

And...of course, I love using my vintage, rustic treasures

to hold the all the beautiful blossoms

we are lucky enough to have on the property.

My fascination with Instagram continues,

but my son Dan will be happy to know

that I have been using my Canon big girl camera again

and now that we have replaced my 8 year old laptop

(may she rest in peace)

with a new one that is fast and has lots of storage...

I hope to blog a bit more often as well.

Wishing you a lovely spring!

I can't wait to get back up to the lake!

Take care!

Lunch with the Girls at Evi's Beautiful Home

2014-02-23T16:23:00.001-05:00

Evi's annual Valentine Luncheon was postponed this year due to the terrible weather we have been having this winter in New York.
But, finally last Thursday we managed to come together
and enjoy a fabulous afternoon at Evi's welcoming home.

Her unique and beautiful home appeared
as fresh, light and inviting as ever.

Evi's European origins and her design background work together
to highlight her many vintage collections and interests.
Never cluttered, always perfectly edited, each item on display
is placed just so making her rooms both beautiful and interesting.

Once again, Evi spoiled us with a delicious lunch.

She served mushroom, asparagus soup; corn, tomato and avocado salad;

baked salmon and creme fraiche potatoes.

For dessert, we had strawberries, apple tart

and a delicious cake with chocolate and a Dutch liquor center.

The table was set with Valentine's Day still in mind...

red and white linen napkins, lace tablecloth and charming paper

birds created by the talented Evi to stand in as place cards.

And, of course, she baked and packaged her special cookies

for us to bring home. (Mr. Flea was waiting for those! :))

Touches of red, Evi's favorite color and bits of whimsy
repeat throughout this distinctive and lovely home.

Sigh...everything is so clean and uncluttered in Evi's world.

...just like my home...

NOT!

Can you just imagine the 6 of us gathered around this table?

Giddy with the rare opportunity to all spend time together...
...we chattered and ate the afternoon away.

This year, Tovah Martin came to join us at the luncheon.

It was lovely to meet this charming girl.

I was just a little starstruck, but the famous horticulturalist, master gardener, author, lecturer and producer of a PBS series
fit right in with the rest of us...kindred spirits.

Since Evi and Paula are gardeners and Carole owns and operates a nursery there was much they had in common.

And since everyone loves antiques and treasure hunting
at flea markets...I fit right in too!

Small touches, tiny delightful bits and interesting collections

are tucked away in a cabinet in the dining room.

The charming country kitchen, which produces amazing delectable culinary creations a la Evi's expertise,

is just as lovely and inviting as the rest of the house.

Collections of sheep and tiny doll dishes fill one shelf ...

Crows and baskets gather on top of another shelf over the stove.

I am sure Evi would not approve of the above photo.
She was in the the midst of preparing our lunch...
that's her delicious mushroom, asparagus soup
simmering on the stove!

but, hey...

...this is how the magic happens!

Moving on to Evi and her sweet hubby Eb's bedroom.

Relaxing and romantic.
should I say red hot? :)

Three small shelves next to the window

hold miniature cupboards and other tiny treasures.

I love how she re-furbished the small master bath...
making use of every inch of space while designing it
to fit in with her aesthetic.

Don't you love those botanicals?

Yes, Evi did that beautiful stenciling...

Across the hall is another light filled bedroom...

...which now is home to Evi's books and vintage toy collections.

One of Evi's beautiful snow girls
stands on a scrubbed pine dresser in the living room.

And because it had been so long since we had seen each other,
Evi, Paula and I exchanged birthday and Christmas gifts.

These beautiful packages were for me!

Paula made the angel wings for me which now are perched
on the back of one of my vintage dress forms.
I am so lucky to have such creative and talented friends!

And last, but certainly not least, is Carole's gift to Evi...

...a beautiful folded paper basket.
Isn't it amazing?

I can't even imagine being that creative...
...or patient!

Thank you Evi for hosting us once again....
...we so appreciate all your efforts and will remember
with love all your pampering and our wonderful day together !

I want to thank everyone who has written to me, sent up a few prayers or otherwise reached out to me. My father in law passed away a few weeks ago and we held a beautiful memorial service to celebrate his 94 years of life and loving.

I am now in Florida with Dad and the southern part of the family and don't intend to return to New York until spring!
With flea markets and antique jaunts on the horizon...
...stay tuned for a few more posts!
:)

Gifts and Gratitude

2013-12-19T19:59:00.001-05:00

The Christmas season has been beautiful...

...with soft snowfalls and lots of close family time.

Our gifts this year include the gift of time...

...time to share memories and loving words.

This year my husband's Dad is celebrating his last Christmas.

We are grateful that, this snowy December, we are able to share happy memories, corny jokes, bittersweet tears

and lots of warm hugs.

We are still learning from this father and grandfather...

patience, endurance, what it means to be generous and loving.

We are learning the importance of living in the moment...

...to appreciate every day.

We are blessed...

...to love and be loved.

At times, our hearts are filled with sadness

knowing that soon we will no longer

have this special man in our lives...

But, we also know how blessed we are to have had him with us

so healthy and active and independent for all these many years.

And for that, we are very thankful.

This Christmas is a little different.
It is simpler in some respects but filled with a heightened
awareness of the love that we share...

and the many blessings of family.

Life on this earth is a beautiful gift.

This Christmas we are giving

the gifts of time, attention and compassion.

Our hearts are filled with overwhelming gratitude...

...as we humbly receive God's gift of Christmas.

Wishing each of you joy and peace.

Grace's Pink Christmas

2013-12-06T19:09:00.000-05:00

Uncle George's sister Grace loved the color pink.

She also loved fine antiques and was an avid collector

of beautiful glassware, pottery, silver and Victorian furniture.

Her entire home was filled to the brim with treasures...

...including signed Tiffany, Lalique and Faberge.

Years ago, after she passed...I was lucky enough

to be given her collection of vintage Christmas ornaments.

Almost all of them were pink

and many were antique German treasures.

This year, I decided to display some of them

on an old pink transferware platter.

Hope you are finding peace and joy this Christmas season.

We are counting our many blessings and holding tight

to each other as we care for family members in need.

Happy Holidays to all!

Linking to How Sweet The Sound...Pink Saturday

Nest in Mystic at Christmas!

2013-12-02T20:00:00.000-05:00

...and then we went to NEST

in Mystic

Wow!

We walked in the door and didn't know which way to look first.

Every inch sparkled with holiday magic!

And beside all the wonderful Christmas decor...

...there were many antique and vintage treasures to be found!

There were vintage typewriters, black and white transferware,

old journals and wood drawers mixed in with new and interesting

candles, faux greenery and gifts for everyone on your list!

I was tempted to add to my wicker covered bottle collection.

So much inspiration to be found!

WHOooo wants to go shopping here?

And...oh...the beautiful and unique jewelry!

I am told that Marcia, the owner of this marvelous shop,

also makes many of the jewelry pieces herself!

Loved the turquoise and silver ornaments...

The vintage golf trophy in back was fabulous!

Hotel silver and pretty vintage glass...

Cupboards of cookbooks, kitchen items, aprons and ribbons...

... and shelves of soft stuffies and sweet gifts

Wire and button stars...

And then there were lovely clothes and leather goods.

I spy something I brought home with me!

In fact, I brought quite a few things home with me!

If you are anywhere near Mystic, Connecticut this holiday season...

...be sure to stop in to NEST!

How's your holiday shopping going?

Did you shop small and local this year?

Paula's Christmas Cottage 2013 Part 2

2013-11-30T15:04:00.001-05:00

Hope everyone had a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Back to my visit with Paula

and a tour of her charming Christmas cottage!

On the landing at the top of the stairs

sits this charming snowlady, another one-of-a-kind doll

created by our good friend Evi

Evi's Country Snippets

...next to yet another decorated tree!

This bedroom is referred to as either

the "Princess Room" or the "Red Room".

I just call it my room.

Even the tiny upstairs bath has a Christmas tree and decorations.

Now we are heading into the other upstairs bedroom.

Isn't she beautiful?

Paula's mitten pillow.

She even knit the tiny mittens!

Sweet little angel bear.

The cottage is positively magical in the evening

with so many tiny twinkling lights!

Paula's creative and imaginative Christmas decor

surely gave me the inspiration I was looking for!

I left there with visions of sugarplums

and all sorts of other enchanting ideas!

Thank you Paula!

Looking forward to the Christmas party!

Next up...

A visit to NEST in Mystic, Connecticut.

You are going to love this amazing shop!

Paula's Cozy Christmas Cottage 2013 - Part 1

2013-11-27T19:36:00.002-05:00

Ah...yes!

That is Paula's charming cottage immortalized

on this very special hand painted Christmas ornament.

We had our annual, wonderful, whirlwind 2 day

Christmas shopping extravaganza!

We covered it all....from our favorite home decor boutiques, holiday open houses, antique shops, upscale specialty,

dress and jewelry shops...

...to junk shops and even Home Goods and TJ Maxx.

In between shopping and eating I managed to take

lots of photos of Paula's Christmas cottage.

This post is way too long... with 50 plus photos... so you may want to read this when everyone else is taking their post turkey nap!

...just so you know!

First, here is a peek at her little cottage kitchen decorated,

of course, with a small Christmas tree on the counter.

I counted over 17 decorated trees this year!

The charming kitchen is indeed tiny, but let me tell you,

I have enjoyed some pretty awesome meals coming out

of this wonderful space!

I didn't even count this sweet little tree...

...or this one!

Paula made a pair of angel wings, trimmed with lace

and old buttons, for this wire dress form.

And then she crowned a Christmas tree with it!

Where does she get these ideas from?

We were together antiquing when she found these bed springs...

...now turned into a table candelabra centerpiece.

Her silver table top tree filled with birds and nests

was set up in the corner of the dining room again.

Don't you love the colors in these bird plates

that she found in Pottery Barn?

The colors fit in perfectly with her palette

of creams, whites, green and brown.

And yes, that is one of Evi's hand made Santas.

Evi's Country Snippets

Another of Evi's Santas...in an antique shoe.

A newly acquired, hand crafted curly wool sheep

stands beneath another tree.

Small vignettes fill each shelf of an old chimney cupboard.

Paula converted some old chair springs into her version

of a "dove cote".

There are those wonderful skates she bargained for

at Brimfield a few years back...

...and one of Evi's rabbits.

The bed in the downstairs bedroom has a new duvet cover

on sale at PB...

The pine cones and boughs are just perfect for a winter bed...

...and I was thinking ...it would be wonderful on one of the beds

at the lake house in the summer too!

There's the olive bucket I gave her for her birthday...finally!

I love these little Charlie Brown trees she finds.

Michele from Taken For Granite
made these charming pillows last year!

Pillow by Michele at Taken For Granite!

I loved the way she decorated the mantel in this room

with the hairpin gate, clock faces and funky trees.

The Mama rabbit and little bunny are making their first appearance

this year as they are new to Paula's collection

of Evi's one of a kind creations.

Every single detail is important to Paula

which is what makes her Christmas cottage so special.

More to come!

We haven't been upstairs yet!

Until then....

Sending best wishes for a healthy, safe and

Happy Thanksgiving

to you and your families.

Taken For Granite - Christmas 2013

2013-11-25T15:34:00.000-05:00

Taken For Granite

Christmas 2013

This year's visit to Taken For Granite in Stony Creek, CT

was as inspirational, beautiful and amazing as always!

Just look at this fabulous garden architectural piece

which was the first thing we saw as we walked in the door.

From that moment on,

Paula and I were swept off our feet into the magical world

that Michele, the owner of the shop, creates each year.

Sadly, we missed seeing her but were able to chat a bit with her lovely sister Sue, who along with other members of the TFG team help transform

what is already a beautiful shop into this winter wonderland!

They were all ready for their Holiday Open House.

As usual, I took tons of photos to share with you...

...so be prepared to be dazzled!

Remember my silver tree with watch faces, trinkets

and bits and bobs that I did last year?

I love Michele's version.

Of all things...Paula loved this tape measure!

As usual, we were oohing and aaahing over everything!

And, of course I loved the blues, turquoises and all the beautiful seashells and coral that are ever present in this CT boutique

located here by the sea on the Long Island Sound.

There were gorgeous jewels to choose from.

Paula, that tricky girl, bought me a birthday present
...the most beautiful silver necklace by Rebecca Leonard.
I made the mistake of admiring it and then, well, I couldn't stop her...

...I am thrilled !

Beautiful tablescapes showcased jewelry, leather goods,

Christmas decor and antiques.

I absolutely adored Michele's use of vintage Christmas

black and white photos sprinkled throughout the shop!

So much inspiration!

Michele always has a wonderful assortment
of unique clothes and accessories.
There are so many interesting choices for the holidays...
for giving to special friends or family or for yourself!

Faux fur...mittens, scarves and purses!

I hope you enjoyed the tour this year!

If you get the chance to visit this charming area of Connecticut

over the holiday season....

...you must stop in and visit Michele and all the lovely girls that
work at Taken For Granite.

We always have so much fun here!

Visit them on their Facebook Page HERE!

Give them a LIKE for me!

What's up next?

Well, I have a zillion photos of Paula's Christmas cottage

and I took photos of NEST in Mystic, CT...

...another amazing boutique all decorated for the holidays!

I am going to try to get the next post up before Tday...

but just in case life gets in the way...

Wishing you a joy filled, peaceful, safe and

Happy Thanksgiving holiday!

Guess What's Coming?

2013-11-19T20:23:00.000-05:00

Yes...it's that time of year!

I will be off to Connecticut later on this week

to visit my dear friend, Paula...

...whose charming cottage is already decorated for Christmas

and ready for me to photograph ...

...to share with you!

Did you catch the Christmas 2012 photos of her home

in the Better Homes and Gardens publication "Christmas Ideas" ?

It's in the stores now!

And, that's not all...

Remember Noelle?

We will be visiting Michele at Taken For Granite in Stony Creek...

...I simply can't wait to see the fantastic displays

she and her team have dreamed up for Christmas 2013!

Paula has a few other shopping surprise stops for me...

...and my little trip to Connecticut would not be complete

without visits with my special friends

Carole of Maynard Greenhouse in Old Saybrook

and

Deanna of Gather in Ivoryton.

So stay tuned...

...for some fun photos of inspiring spaces created by

these amazing, artistic and imaginative women!

I'm so excited!

can you tell?

Autumn in the Adirondacks

2013-10-29T21:55:00.000-04:00

September and October were beautiful in the Adirondacks.

Here are a few photos that show just a bit of the beauty

of our mountains and lake.

It is always sad when we close up "camp" for the season.

But things changed quickly up north

and they have already had their first snowfall!

Things have changed here at home too.

Life has it's seasons.

These days we are spending time loving and caring

for the oldest members of our family.

It is such a privilege.

So grateful for family, friends and faith.

Hope You are enjoying the season!

More Bouckville 2013 Treasure

2013-10-24T21:00:00.000-04:00

I took a ton of photos at Bouckville

with two different cameras plus my IPhone.

If you follow along on Instagram...

you have seen very similar photos.

Thought you might enjoy seeing these too!

These two marble top tables were gorgeous.

They weren't priced, there was no vendor around

and I don't even have a place for them.

But, I want a place for them.

I love them.

The fact is...I don't even have room for one.

Loved both of these charming portraits!

This vendor had tons of Christmas ornaments stacked high.

I think there were as many photos taken of this pile

as people were buying!

European Breadboards....

colored glass bottles...

So beautiful...

A great selection of old windows...

Just say no.

I already have three of these, including one that was my Nana's.

an old bustle...

I can't even imagine what it would be like to wear such a thing.

But then again...my figure doesn't need any extra padding there!

You know how much I love blue!

I have several pieces of cobalt decorated pottery collected long ago.

Good thing...prices are high now!

That's it for photos of Bouckville 2013

Looking forward to next year already!

Next up...autumn at the lake.

Paula's 2012 Christmas House in Print!

2013-10-23T14:01:00.000-04:00

Have you seen this special interest publication

by Better Homes and Gardens?

Christmas Ideas

Well, my dear friend Paula's home, all decorated for Christmas,

was photographed last year for this special issue.

The article is at the very back of the magazine...

because, of course, they save the best for last!

It's in the stores now!

I am looking forward to my next visit,once her decorations are up, because she always does something different...

...and she has already clued me in to a few amazing ideas

she has cooking in her creative mind!

Just had to let you know!

The Vintage Room at Bouckville 2013

2013-10-21T22:04:00.000-04:00

This was my lucky year at the Bouckville show.

I was finally able to meet Colleen Bloom of The Vintage Room.

Her charming booth stands out as a rose among thorns (so to speak)

with all it's decidedly feminine and shabby chic decor.

Colleen's love of the French Nordic look

is apparent in her lovely vignettes and displays.

Florals and fine china...

Vintage pins displayed on a denim vest over satin and lace...

Silver and painted pieces...

Old mirrors and Florentine accessories...

Crystal, silver and Italian metal tole...

Shabby chic painted furniture in creams and pinks,

gorgeous vintage clothes and beautiful jewelry...

vintage linens and lace...

Painted signs and furniture...lots of creativity going on here!

Colleen carries Jeanne D'Arc Living publications,

products and even their lovely clothes!

Colleen is as sweet as she is talented.

Such a pretty lady too!

I was delighted to finally meet her in person.

You can see more pictures of her booth at Bouckville

on her blog The Vintage Room

...and can follow her on Facebook here!

As always, thanks for stopping by and for kind comments!

The Gypsy Paintbrush at Bouckville 2013

2013-10-18T20:00:00.000-04:00

Back to Bouckville ... way back in August...

I couldn't wait to visit the booth of my friend Victoria Potter

who goes by the name The Gypsy Paintbrush.

Vicky is a creative and inspiring girl who always has a large supply of rustic items

mixed with pretties and feminine treasures.

In addition, she is a talented artist who adds her own painted pieces

to her eclectic inventory.

Her interesting displays mix silver pieces, white ironstone, vintage ribbons, colored glass and pretty dishes with zinc containers, advertising pieces and a bit of industrial.

Vicky has a great sense of style and is genius at achieving just the right balance between masculine and feminine elements...

(I love how she re-purposed tiny iron pulleys into unique jewelry pieces.)

Vicky always has beautiful vintage clothes and pretty linens to look through. Last year I found the loveliest antique peach lace dress which hangs in front of a window in my bedroom and casts such a soft romantic light when the afternoon sun shines through.

This year, I couldn't resist a black poufy crinoline petticoat

which looks pretty amazing on my Victorian cage dress form.

This stunning mirror took center stage in her pretty booth this year.

And, oh those little details that we all love so much.

This is the bottom of a small box that another customer

was purchasing in Vicky's booth. I adore this tiny label.

You never know what Vicky will bring to her shows...

...but I have never been disappointed and am always delighted

with her beautiful and imaginative displays.

You can follow her on FB to find out where she will set up and display her wonderful wares next.

Next up...

...the booth of Colleen Bloom...The Vintage Room!

Thanks so much for all those lovely comments welcoming me back!

You really know how to make a girl feel good about things :)

The Bouckville 2013 Review - Finally

2013-10-15T22:14:00.002-04:00

Hello friends...

It's been so long since I have posted...I almost forgot how!

More about why it's been so long later.

For now...here are some pics of some of the wonders that I saw when I went to the fabulous Madison Bouckville show in August.

Yes, I know...that was two months ago.

My first parking spot was literally at the edge of a corn field.

This photo is out the front windshield before I exited the car!

Can you feel the excitement?

As usual, my heart was pounding at the prospect

of finding my brand of junk!

Enjoy the photos!

Three beautiful days of antiquing and visiting with friends

was such a treat!

This show is still my favorite.

Later this week, I will share pics from the booths of Vicky Potter of Gypsy Paintbrush and Colleen Bloom from The Vintage Room.

You will enjoy their distinct, feminine and pretty presentations.

Now, about my unplanned and long blogging break...

Well, Life got in the way.

The many joys of life...

...as we were very busy and had a ton of fun

with family and friends at the lake this summer.

And then there were some hard times too...

...our family, like yours, has had its share of loss and illness.

Fortunately, we are holding tight to one another and our faith.

So, that's why I have not been online much...

...I have been focused on family.

Having said that...

I have, however, been an Instagramming fool...

using the IPhone 5 my son Dan bought me last Christmas.

IG must have been invented for lazy bloggers like me!

Here's why I like it...

...my phone is always with me anyway, it's quick, immediate

and the photos are a bit gritty... not meant to be perfect...

...although you would be amazed at some of the shots on IG.

Not to mention the amazing apps and editing tools

which I have yet to get into.

If you are interested you can click the button on my sidebar

to check out my feed.

Meanwhile, I hope YOU are well...

I have much catching up to do with everyone's blogs

and hope to spend a little time doing that soon.

A special thank you to the dear friends and readers who have taken the time to email, message me or send handwritten notes...

...your thoughtfulness and expressions of concern

have meant the world to me.

I am grateful for your kindness and feel so blessed

to have each and every one of you in my life.

Be back soon with more Bouckville photos!

Pink Peonies

2013-07-02T21:41:00.000-04:00

My Mom's pretty pink peonies...

...next door, here at the lake.

She loved these...and so do I.

Mom was very talented at flower arranging

and used to enjoy fixing up bouquets

from her garden to set about the house.

Dad says there wasn't a flower that she didn't love.

Here it is July and there are still some buds yet to bloom.

So pretty!

We have been busy here at the lake with lots of company...

...both friends and family.

This weekend we will be celebrating Independence Day

with a flea market, picnic, parade and fireworks.

There will be 13 of us this year and it is always a lot of fun.

Wishing you happy summer days!

Premier Issue of Inspiration Vintage Magazine

2013-06-14T03:35:00.000-04:00

Melinda from Alabaster Rose Lifestyle
has launched a brand new magazine called
Inspiration Vintage Magazine.
This creation has been a long time dream of hers
and she has put her heart and soul into it.

I was honored to be asked to contribute a few words and photos along with some other wonderful blogging friends
whose talents and blogs I have long admired.

I am looking forward to receiving my own hard copy in the mail.

You can order one for yourself or a digital copy HERE.

Thank you Melinda for asking me to contribute

to this beautiful publication!

The Bird's Nest Inn and Beyond

2013-05-26T14:18:00.002-04:00

The Bird's Nest Inn is the secluded tiny get away

behind Paula's little old farmhouse.

In a former life, it housed chickens.

Now, it is a romantic secret bedroom

with lovely views of Paula's gardens.

Inside is an inviting comfy bed...ready and waiting

for an afternoon nap,

a place to sneak away and read a good book...

...or sit and have a glass of wine in the evening...

...or perhaps a romantic interlude (blush)...

...or a good night's sleep in the cool night air

after a hot summer day.

Or how about a seat in the rope swing for perfect views

out the screened windows into the garden.

The witch's hat or sputnik as we refer to it...

...has a romantic story behind it.

Paula asked her love, Bill...on their very first date...

... to help her drag this rusty relic home.

He did, no questions asked...and she knew she had a keeper!

An open air dining room...

Paula is going to craft some airy curtains to hang here

and plans to fill those urns with ivy this year.

The wisteria was glorious in mid May and covered the garage.

It has grown up and through the old shuttered door.

And...where did that single red tulip come from?

Paula's garden palette may include some pinks and lavenders

along with her white flowers but this lonely little red tulip

appeared out of nowhere.

I guess everybody and every-blossom

wants a chance to be in Paula's gardens! :)

There are several bushes of white bleeding hearts which were luminous and beautiful in the shade.

I hope you have enjoyed this visit

to my dear friend Paula's gardens.

These photos were taken in mid May and with each day,

new growth and surprises appear to delight the eye.

Some of you have asked why Paula doesn't have a blog.

It is because she would rather spend her free time in the gardens, or creating in her cottage and not on the computer.

She doesn't even own a cell phone...now tell me, how much more time would you have if you weren't looking at Instagram or checking Facebook?

I think she has the right idea!

(But don't try to take my Iphone away from me!)

So, do I have more photos of inside the farmhouse?

Yes, of course.

Also...of some of our favorite shops and Brimfield too.

Coming soon...

Thank you always for your comments...

Paula loves to hear what you think of her home and gardens.

And I, of course, love to hear from you and appreciate the time it takes to leave a word or two.

Hoping all is well with you...

We are at the lake with family and friends for Memorial Day weekend.

Lots of rain and cold...but happy to be together!

Take care, Laura

Paula's Cottage and Gardens in Early May

2013-05-22T13:58:00.000-04:00

Hello again!

Back from Florida with Dad...

...a few days home...before we head to the lake.

Here are a few more photos from my visit to Paula's last week.

Her cottage was fresh and as charming as always...

and her early spring gardens were beautiful and promised a spectacular show

to come in just a few weeks.

Tiny Finch and Dove eggs came from Paula's sister Carol .

Paula's tiny kitchen is packed with charm

and reflects her unique decorating style.

I can attest to the fact that although small in size

it has served up many delicious meals!

Outside the back door, one of her window boxes just planted with purple blossoms from our good friend Carole

at Maynard Greenhouse in Old Saybrook.

I just love the texture and look of the patio

with these tiny flowers, moss and lichen.

It is such a pretty time of year here in Paula's gardens

with all the ferns and shade flowers just beginning to bloom.

Years ago, Paula and I both bought a few Giant Solomon Seal

plants at a Trade Secrets Show.

Mine are still thriving at the lake in the Adirondacks...

and Paula's have multiplied and are stunning!

Her lilacs were just beginning to bloom.

The Bird's Nest Inn is stunning and deserves its very own post...

...to highlight the charm of this unexpected little get away!

So...stay tuned for lots more photos from Paula's home

and my mini vacation in beautiful Connecticut.

Thank you for all your lovely comments.

I read and appreciate them so much!

Time to Visit Paula's Cottage in Connecticut

2013-05-17T18:08:00.000-04:00

Each May, I make the trip to visit my good friend Paula in Connecticut

and we travel to Brimfield to the antique fair,

do some local shopping and just enjoy each others company.

Of course, this means I get to stay in Paula's charming farmhouse

and see all the little changes she has made in her cottage

with her unique decorating style.

We had a lot of fun in Brimfield along with Paula's sister Carol...

...it was her first time and to quote her,

"I think I died and went to heaven!"

We also were able to visit our dear friends

Carole from Maynard Greenhouse in Old Saybrook

and Deanna at her shop Gather in Ivoryton

and, of course we squeezed in a stop to Michelle's

Taken For Granite in Stony Creek!

(Michelle and her sister Sue made the charming pillow above)

The letters above also came from Taken For Granite!

I love the way Paula has arranged them.

So, take a look around...

May is half over and there is still so much to do and lots going on!

I have many more photos including pictures

of her beautiful early spring garden!

Also, photos of all there was to see at Brimfield ,

Gather and Taken For Granite...

...coming soon!

Lilac Love

2013-05-09T22:00:00.000-04:00

May is such an incredibly beautiful month...

It is also the month my Dad was born...

...he will be 86 in a few days!

(and is still working on his dollhouses!)

Our beautiful daughter Kate was born on May 1st

and the lilacs were in full bloom the day we brought her home.

We are so fortunate to have three different varieties of lilacs

that were once our mothers and grandmothers.

Sharing my lilac love with all of you...

...and Happy Mother's Day too!

P.S. ...and just so you don't think that everything

around here smells heavenly...

...below is a photo I snapped of an unwanted intruder.

I have filled the house with buckets of lilacs but this fragrant fellow

has taken up residence under the front porch.

oh well :)

Archive Home

2013-05-07T11:45:00.001-04:00

A few weeks before Christmas, when Kate was home visiting,

she took us out to lunch to one of the charming little restaurants in Nyack, NY.

She wanted me to see some of Nyack's shops and boutiques

so we could do a little holiday shopping.

While there I spied a little shop with eye catching window displays

...clearly there were vintage items and artsy vignettes...

...we had to explore!

The sign on the door said....Pop Up Shop.

Once inside, I was enthralled with the vintage treasures

and delighted with the artful arrangements and creative vignettes

that met the eye at every turn!

My mind was racing...

...as I imagined how I could use this or that

in my own arrangements at home or in my booth space.

Oooo...who is the person or persons behind this wonderful collection of cool stuff?

That is when I met Christina Lane

who, along with co-owners Bette Blau and Meryl Foster

are the proprietors of this little shop which had just "popped up"!

Christina, who couldn't have been any friendlier and welcoming,

explained that she and Bette were prop stylists and that these treasures were the overflow...the inevitable wonderful leftovers from photo shoots and staging projects.

Wow!

My kind of place!

I loved it all....

Kate and Mr. Flea, my biggest fans...

embarrassed me a little and ...told Christina about my little blog

and how all of this was right up my alley.

Back in December...

the two stylists had only just opened the shop a few weeks earlier

and were still trying to settle on a name for the store.

We shared a few laughs as Mr. Flea thought he was brilliant when

he came up with his suggestion of calling the pop up shop...

The PROP -UP SHOP!

But...I loved the name they selected...

ARCHIVE HOME

Take a look around...

Christina was enthusiastic when I asked if I could come back

to take pictures for the blog...

...but it wasn't until last week that I finally was able to return.

The store front windows are so well done...intriguing...

...they draw you right in!

A fun collection of galvanized tin bait keepers.

Pair one with a fishing pole and some cheery flowers

for a welcoming summer vignette.

They also are now carrying some lovely new items.
Meryl Foster
is responsible for the contemporary goods in the shop...

...like this collection of MUD dinnerware.

I love the soft colors and matte finish.

Beautiful Turkish towels...

...blues, grays, creams...

Such a wonderful mix of interesting objects...

...this is the kind of place you have to stop in every week as you never know what you will find!

Intriguing, right?

I knew you would love it!

You can find Archive Home on their Facebook page HERE

Please tell them I say hello and give their page a Like!

If you see something you must have,

it just might be listed in their new Etsy shop HERE !

It turns out that Christina is a contributing editor to Country Living magazine.

Why am I not surprised ! ?!

Hope you are well...

I am still busy cleaning out and decided to focus on that and hold off just a bit longer on re-stocking the Etsy shop.