The chair that I couldn’t leave behind—even though it’s uncomfortable because the springs have sprung, and its oversized presence means it doesn’t fit around any table. I also don’t have a grand entrance where it truly belongs.

One might wonder, 

“What was she thinking? Why buy it?”

Well, first, the faded blue patina kept calling my name with such desperation. Then I couldn’t bear the thought of it being destined to become firewood. So, it came home with me, where it now holds my favorite textiles.

It found a new purpose, while hogging up so much room.

               

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Every room, each entry, stone, beam, ironwork, handle speaks of a generation no longer living yet alive.

What will we leave behind?

A future of beauty I hope.

               

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Our friends, Arnelle, and Roger, have gratefully generously offered these last several years to stay in their beautiful home in France- hidden on the back roads, a glorious old stone home with a pool centered in nature, which has saved us every August from heat. 

It started when Chelsea was pregnant with Gabriel. Arnelle called staying in their home a baby moon, taking from the word honeymoon.

 Gabriel calls their place. “The beautiful House”- and every summer crosses his fingers that we can return.

These last several years Chelsea and Co. have taken a photo on the terrace where in the Spring wisteria grows spreading purple confetti over the terrace. The wisteria vine grows thicker each year on the old pillar where Chelsea who is six months pregnant (another baby moon) and two little pickles in tow.

Thank you A&R

                

Comments

• In reply to Jeanette. As we do you!!! by Corey
• I love this! Chelsea looks fantastic. I think of you all often. by Jeanette
• In reply to Texas Francophile. They went their separate ways ... by Corey
• so thrilled for you all and what a beautiful place to stay ... by Jeanne Caron
• Beautiful family photo congratulations on another grandchild ... by Kathleen (Ireland)
• You and your family are fortunate indeed. Lots of love, good ... by Judith Wagner

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He loves to read. Every chance he has. Between one moment to another. Anywhere. In the car, On the sidewalk. Between dinner and dessert. In bed. The first and last thing he does in the day.

He packed a bag full of books for our vacation.

Plus, he started to read in english..

                

Comments

• In reply to Stubblejumpers Cafe. … yes by Corey
• Nothing better than seeing a child reading. by Sue J.
• A quote from somewhere: “A reading child is a quiet child.” by Stubblejumpers Cafe
• This is a hobby that he can have for the rest of his life! by Bev S.
• So good to see a book in a child’s hand instead of an iPad ... by Texas Francophile
• How wonderful! I started reading early and it's still my ... by NancyO.

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Collected over the years, piece by piece, found at Brocantes mainly around Provence. It allows a stage to dream.

Textures, muted tones, torn, worn, cracked aged pieces that belonged to many different people over time.

Brocante tabletop dishes, silverware, glasses, table linens, platters- in a land the reveres gathering around a table- tabletop pieces are plentiful, and used.

The brocante home doesn’t stop at one room it expands to every knock and cranny, bookshelf and table. Layered as it comes.

A brocante home embraces patina, layered textures, faded everything, curated desire, natural materials, redefined beauty, individuality, authenticity… dust, especially, dust.

It is a home created to be shared. Living in an brocante home, and well-loved objects is not as effortless as filling rooms with flawless new things. Living with brocante pieces means you need to give thought before haste. Or added cracks and breaks will occur. The value isn’t in practicality but in presence.

A brocante home resists barren surfaces and convenience. It appreciates craftsmanship, imperfection, and feels intentionally crowded.

                

Comments

• In reply to Sue J.. Beaten up and yet so worn loved. ... by Corey
• Tell me about the books in that last shot. Fabulous! by Sue J.
• In reply to Pam. ❤️❤️ by Corey
• Some homes are more than places. They become repositories of a ... by Pam
• In reply to Ann of Avondale. I hope I am never cured of the ... by Corey
• Love every room, every single piece placed where it sits, and ... by Bonnie Schulte

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The true riches we often realize too late:

Still having your parents.

Having a healthy body.

Having genuine friends.

Having time for yourself.

Being able to sleep without worry.

Laughing for no reason.

Feeling like you truly belong.

What would you add? In French or English.

                

Comments

• To love and be loved unconditionally. by Pam
• Having everyone you love happy and healthy by Jeanne Caron
• Having a grateful heart Being able to feel joy by Anne

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