Life has felt full of wonderfully moments lately. 

And then… We learned that our dear friend was heading towards an unexpected difficulty, it became clear that gathering before I left mattered more than ever.

I prepared a dinner that was fresh, abundant, and nourishing— food that would fill more than our plates. I hoped the evening would offer a heartfelt thank you, a reflection of years of friendship, and a reminder of the love we have shared. A healing grace. 

We lingered around the table long after the meal was finished, talking, laughing, remembering, sharing mercies, offering comfort, and holding one another close in heart. The evening become more than a meal; a gift, hands held symbolically, prayers offered by hope and courage. 

I will see you in August!

PS between bites and plates, Gabriel read and read. The Pickle lives in books.

                

Comments

• Corey that meal looks beautiful! by Diogenes

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Muriel’s shop that we visit with our French la Vie groups is pure eye candy. The way she sets her jammed packed shop with intention and dedication to color and texture is delicious.

                

Comments

• Based on this post's title, I was expecting pix of Yann.😈 by Kathie B.
• The textiles ad fabric you share send my heart racing! I love ... by Cynthia Thompson

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With antiques, a home becomes a living, breathing story — a place filled with emotion, memory, and soul.

When I go looking for antiques, I discover, and allow something unexpected to find its way to me. What I mean is it is not always about searching for what one needs or what one imagined one wants, but about noticing what speaks to you. A worn surface, an inviting texture, a mark left by time — these are the details that create connection and bring depth to a home- that express character.

They surprise you, invite you in, and encourage you to look beyond what is immediately seen — to discover the stories waiting within.

A home that surprises you, that draws you closer, that makes you smile with curiosity that taps your imagination.

                

Comments

• Small treasures unexpected. I once found a book of poetry ... by Marilyn Miller

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It was a bingo sourcing day. The kind of day that felt like I was in a gold mine. The prices were right, the objects there to found, and the checklist was being crossed off steadily.

                

Comments

• Definite treasure, each and every one. Love it all. by Marilyn Miller
• The brocante gods were smiling on you! by Diogenes
• That's a beautiful framed mirror in the first photo! by Lil
• Fantastic finds! That last pic is amazing! by Jeanette
• What amazing treasures! I could never resist getting ... by Cynthia Thompson

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This is freedom.

To be who you are where you are,

and not be afraid.

To be able to dream and

pursue tomorrow,

while trusting today.

May it be true for all.

photo via online

                

Comments

• To be free to dream without fear. Your words are precious. ... by Marilyn Miller
• Thank you Cory. May God bless us all. Blessings by Cynthia Thompson
• Amen. by Jan

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At the first brocante I ever visited, years ago, I found a postcard of a woman impeccably dressed, carrying eggs in a basket, water from the fountain in a zinc watering can, and vegetables gathered in the crisp white apron she wore.

The framed postcard was one of the first things I ever bought at a brocante. Its worth was never the point. Instead, long before I could put it into words, it reminded me of the beauty of an ordinary life lived with care.

Just for the record, now that Chelsea has chickens and I’ve seen how many eggs chickens lay in a day, I want to say that “basket heavy laden” represents a farmyard full of chickens and a graceful, strong arm. I can’t say that I look that good carrying the load of antiques back to the car over the years—graceful, strong… no, happy? Oh yeah.

                

Comments

• You always look “graceful, strong” and happy!!!! Love old ... by Marilyn Miller

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