It is not that much hasn’t happened...
My son arrived back from college, being a mum is such a gift. Although with a 20 year old I have learnt to do so in an unobtrusive way.
My first Shabby Chic store closed on May 30th, 2009.
Exactly 20 years after it opened. That was a tough day.
My garden blossomed, my lavender is 3 feet tall cascading down my front path. Fat floppy roses so happy to be smelled.
I compiled a scrap book of the vision of my dreams. Seems writers have to write, painters have to paint, and for no specific purpose, I have to design.
To my eyes I think I have compiled my best and most complete story. When the time is right, it will find its place to be revealed.
The world does seem rather quiet.
I think that our inner wiring has forever been changed. Apart from the necessities, I don’t think that we will ever consume as we have done in the past. We are adjusting to not thinking too far ahead of ourselves.
Tomorrow is plenty far away. That makes today a lot more important. But now is where we are. For the first time in my adult life, I have no specific structure. Being Jake and Lilys mum and the Shabby Chic lady has kept me very scheduled, even though I will
always be that person. I am not needed so much. So now I get to be Rachel Ashwell. hmmmm. yikes...
So I will write soon, better, more regularly because I like our connection.
My warm thoughts to you all. Enjoy your kids coming back from college, enjoy your gardens. Enjoy being you.
I’m popping to London to help move my father and then my treat will be Brimfield, but that is way past tomorrow.
Rachel, I love your style, in more ways than one. You are right, this recession has given alot of people a different perspective on life, I cannot help but think that that is a good thing. We do need to concentrate our lives, our time and energies on the truly important things. Like our kids, our spouses, our parents. Wishing you all the best, Hugs, ~cindy s~
ReplyDeleteBeautifully put. Reinvention is exciting, but daunting, too.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your quiet time. ~Mandy
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear from you Rachel! Glad that things are moving along at their own pace and in their own time. Things, I think, have a way of working themselves out. Sadly, I was never close enough to visit one of your shops, but I have all of your books, I see your influence everywhere I go and I think of you often. Your style has even influenced my artwork. So, I thank you and look forward to your next project with anticipation and enthusiasm! Tami E.
ReplyDeleteI'm deeply saddened to hear the stores are closing. I've have loved Shabby Chic for years and finally got a wonderful couch last summer as a gift from my mother. I'll cherish it for years!
ReplyDeleteYours truly a loyal follower :)
Michelle
Glad to hear from you again, and hear that you are well despite everything. Are you planning on going to the Texas flea markets in the fall?
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad your son is home. Enjoy! Your garden sounds lovely!!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait for your next update!
Hugs,Lisa
Looking forward to hearing from you, Rachel.
ReplyDeleteYou've been in a twisted sort of gnarly place, a 'where do I go from here' place. It's good to step back, take a breath, and do exactly what you are doing ~ rest, restore, and reinvent.
ReplyDeleteAnd you design because that's who you are, just as a painter would paint for no other reason than it brings sheer joy, for no other reason than it is what he/she was born to do.
All the best,
Eileen
Rachel - It was so nice to see your blog pop up on my dashboard to view. I just love your writing, your work and your style you've created through out your years of Shabby Chic business. I have been a follower forever, and have so admired you from afar.
ReplyDeleteJust know that in these difficult times you are in my thoughts and prayers as you pave your new journey. Remember when God closes one door, He opens another. I believe your next door will be even better.
Have a safe and wonderful trip back home to be with your Dad and keep smelling those roses and enjoying those you love. A good idea for all of us to do so.
Many blessings to you-
Gretchen
http://mimitoriasdesigns.blogspot.com
Thanks for posting again Rachel, I have missed your insightful and inspiring writing. I am looking forward to seeing your scrapbook SO very much - you have no idea how much!! The pairing of two of my most favorite joys in life - Shabby Chic and scrapbooking!! Sounds lovely :).
ReplyDelete~xo Jess
Thanks for keeping us updated on how you are. As I told a friend the other day, change is good, sometimes scary though. You are so talented and I know many of us have missed your creativity. For now, it's good just to be your kids mum and be in your garden. Many blessings for your future, Theresa
ReplyDeleteI think I know exactly what you mean when you say processes/methods will never be as they were before.
ReplyDeleteI have been a contractor for a major corp. and now they have all but eliminated using contractors. However I agree with you that everyone, in everyday has begun to make a change in how we operate, how we conduct our business. Life/things will be different from now on. We will carry on, but in a new way.
Best regards,
Suzy
I am so glad things are looking up. It is good to stay positive. Take one day at a time and see where that leads you. You have so much more still offer and you will get there. For now, you get to focus on you and your family. We will anxiously await your return. You are a true inspiration and we are glad you share with us!
ReplyDeleteMany blessings!!
Rachel,
ReplyDeleteI have always admired you. Even more so now. We are all going through this crazy time together. I am also a business person. A mosaic artist. I sell my mosaics on my website. Times are hard right now. But family is always there. You are right...hold on to the ones you love. We will all get through this tough time together.
xo
Penny
The world does seem rather quiet lately, but perhaps it is just taking a moment to catch its breath. These are the times I like best, the times I try to capture with paint & paper & canvas & words - that stillness just before or after action. When the air is still vibrating with the energy. It must feel odd for you to find yourself unstructured all at once, but I am sure the air around you will continue to vibrate, and after a deep breath or two, you will find yourself standing somewhere new, taking a step forward into that unstructured world - I see you laughing as you do so. It will be fun. Mark my words.
ReplyDelete:) Debi
I just want you to know that my Darcy chairs are my absolute favorite. They are the best chairs I have ever sat in. I am really looking forward to your new book too. Have a great trip to London!
ReplyDeleteYou may not be needed as much now, but you are love and remembered, every time someone stops in my shop (that I pray I can hold onto) and ask for a shabby chic piece of furniture ( white distressed vintage furniture that my hubby and I paint and distress) I think of you and how you have touch our lives. Thank you for living your dream, it has touch more people than you will ever know.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy this day, it’s yours.
God Bless,
Melissa
Thank you so much for sharing a little part of your world with us. I enjoy visiting your blog it's like an old friend.
ReplyDeleteSmiles
I can't wait to hear your story, and to see you post here more often.
ReplyDeleteIt is so true, "tomorrow is plenty far away".
i wanted to write and say how much joy and beauty you brought into my life with your store. it was always a special treat when i would get to go with my mom. i am wearing my favorite shabby chic pj's as i type this. i wish you many blessings and hope to see your stores again. i am still saving for my shabby couch in pink denim!
ReplyDeleteI will soon be an "empty nester" and I am looking forward to being *me* as well ~ discovering new things about myself, even learning new things. It's such a beautiful world still there for us.
ReplyDeleteBest Wishes to You!
:)
~Becca~
My thoughts are with you, and know this is a time of healing. Take in the sun, and your son, your daughter as well, and enjoy the time with your father. Things will unfold and you will again find your meaning and purpose, and schedule. Until then, know there are many along side you make a new way, creating a new normal.
ReplyDeleteDear Rachel,
ReplyDeleteI always love the way you speak of life, you talk about your life and it is also our lives.. Your words are beautiful and precious.
All thing you do, you do it with a divine talent. With much kindness.
I'm often thinking of you.
Take care,
My best regards from France !
I have found that tomorrows are a gift and tomorrows are also scary.Sometimes being positive is the hardest thing to do when it seems like our own little world that surrounds us is coming apart. BUT...when I walked into my garden and saw my lilacs and roses and the lady bugs and butterflies enjoying what I have planted for me (even if they think it is for them)I felt an ease come over me.My mom's cancer is taking her on her journey and I am taking care of her.she wakes up to flowers from the garden and to a daughter that is not sure of anything anymore..but rachel, the sun does rise and we will get our feet wet again...never give up!...create!
ReplyDeletegeneen from tehachapi,ca
You're right, the current climate means that we are hunkered down concentrating on the here and now. It's no bad thing either that we concentrate on simpler pleasures, rather than the frantic spend, spend, spend that we have been doing in recent years. That was never a healthy way to be.
ReplyDeleteI'm a recent visitor to your site and just wanted to say that I enjoy your writing. I look forward to hearing from you more in the future.
Hi Rachel,
ReplyDeleteHow lovely to be just Rachel Ashwell ? .....its Funny but i do not see you as the shabby chic lady running here and there in a busy working world........the girl who helps her Dad move and visits Brimfield,enjoying the Lavender,watching the swans is how i imagine you when i read your books.
You taught me through your books to relax,enjoy my surroundings,look for beauty every where and to take time to smell the roses and i am happy (although not the circumstances) you are getting the chance to too.
Love Kristina XxX
Hi rachel.
ReplyDeleteBE Well, Be Strong, Be Happy~~
x Julie,
Peace be with you Rachel...
ReplyDeletedeb
Being mindful of our daily lives, trying to make more "mindful" of my very full life with my children is something I am striving towards also.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your perspectives, Rachel. You have such a positive, fresh view of the world despite this past year for you. Your designs and your heartfelt messages are so REAL...and I think we are all grateful for that. I know we haven't seen the last of you!
ReplyDeleteI love that you love being a mum. And I love that you are forcing yourself to see the silver lining on those storm clouds...
ReplyDeletethe lavender...
the joy of being around those we love...
the hope for a future...
I have said a a few times here, I but Shabby Chic is so much more then a way to decorate... its a way of life.
And you have lived it beautifully!
I always love to see pictures of how you see the world, as your 'rose colored' glasses seem to be able to transform even the most ordinary of things into simple beauty.
God's blessings to you-
Amanda
Lovely post Rachel, made me take stock - I think we forget sometimes in this hurried world that, yes you are right, we only have this moment - now, to life our best life.
ReplyDeleteWe are getting cold here (Melbourne Australia) and although our gardens are improving slowly from the harsh drought we are having as we head into Winter, it is lovely to visualise how lovely and green and lush your gardens are.
Yes, we are all rethinking how we have been living and need to concentrate on the here and now.
ReplyDeleteGood for you! I am and will still be a fan of the Shabby Chic stores! My daughter recently added her third duvet cover to her bedroom, this time from Target. It is a good thing when change blows our way or how else do we reinvent ourselves? To keep plugging along aimlessly is just a routine? You will find your way!
ReplyDeleteLeslie
Quiet is good! Enjoy everything that crosses your path.
ReplyDeleteRachel,
ReplyDeleteI am happy to hear that you too are seeing things more clearly and have also learned a lot from this terrible experience we call "the recession." You are a wonderfully talented woman with so many more things to offer us, and I for one can not wait to see what lies ahead for you and all of us. Sincerely~ Philicia
sounds like your doing good! I am going to brimfield too..I was thinking sept though... have fun!
ReplyDeletebest wishes Bev
Hi Rachel,
ReplyDeleteI think you are right, I think the days of big spending are over. I hope you are well and that this time will let you reflect on what you want to do next. Just know that you are thought of.
LeAnn:)
dear rachel, you have been nothing but a total inspiration for me since i first dicovered you long ago. please keep us all posted on your future projects. i feel so connected with you and your design style , thank you for everything you have done in my life.
ReplyDeleteI am a fan from Louisiana who has all of your books (and I have read and re-read for inspiration). I also have torn out from magazines each of your homes you have been so gracious to share with us through various publications. I head for your aisle in Target. It always makes me smile! And strange as it may seem, I find inspiration in the midst of your heartbreak. You ARE shabby chic and to have it seemingly taken away is cruel. Yet, you are continuing to let your inner beauty shine forth, holding your head up, and taking life one day at a time. I can only imagine the hurt, but thank God for your health, for your precious children, and your sweet daddy. And, I am waiting for that next book and the next blog and that next inspiring tidbit.
ReplyDeleteDear Rachel, I have so missed hearing from you and wondering if you were well. I have followed you from the onset and I have loved all of your things from the smallest to the grandest. You have a wonderful gift and talent and it will manifest itself again in a new form.
ReplyDeleteIt is right that we all change our thinking and re-invent ourselves. The world became to driven to consume at any cost and I think it lessened us as human beings. I think the real joy is in family, love and life.
One of my great loves is lavender and I will always remember my dear grandmother turning her vibrant lavender bushes into sweet smelling sachets. It was a make do time then and she would cut up her dresses that were no longer any use and use the old faded frocks to stitch her little sachets of love. One of my greatest joys was finding these little treasures amongst my clothes, they signified to me more than any treasure that I was loved.
May you always find little treasures along the pathway of your life that show how much you are loved......
www.arosewithoutathorn.com
Wow ! It seems I am the first one to leave a comment after your last message ! I know what it is to have a 20 years old son as I have one, but he is not coming back from college, rather waiting for our investor visa, to be allowed to be registered in one and study. That is tough on him.
ReplyDeleteI think of your 3rd book every day as I am in the middle of my own works, and I can tell you, as soon as you are a foreigner (I am French), a lot of so-called contractors take advantage of you... I came here because I loved USA and couldn't bear the mean way of thinking in France towards American people, but now, I have to sort between the kind and the dishonest ones. Weird world, really. I really hope you will be back soon as you are an example for me and the best symbol we can ever imagine of the Home Decor field. I pass almost every day in front of you ex-Glendale store and every time I hope to see the Shabby Chic letters appear again. It can't stop just like that, there is so much more to discover from your world. Let's say you are "on holidays" and that your adventures will start again very soon.
All my best to you,
Yael
Oh Rachel it is so good to have you back..yes it is a time to review our lives, who we no longer are vs who we are becoming..I find yoga and walks help me rethink the new beginnings, as my son is to be married next year and my darling girl live a province over..take care..
ReplyDeleteRachel - thank you for your beautiful blog and all the wonderful visions and sights you have brought to my life. I love your perspective and I've grown because of what you bring to this world. Blessings your way as you live through these new days, this new life.
ReplyDeleteKaren
Just had to say hi from Australia,yes you have reached our hearts too!Keep safe and we all look forward to your new chapter of life,don't ever forget what you have achieved,one door closes another opens,bye for now!
ReplyDeleteHi Rachel,
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting and letting us know what your life is like now... You probably don't know how much you have affected many lives and the styles of our homes and it seems kind of strange that I can just type out a note telling you that. Maybe this chapter of your life has finished; sometimes we have to think of our lives as an interesting book with chapters that begin and end. Then we must turn the page and start another; a chapter that we write as we live it, a beautiful story of our unique journeys through this life and onto eternity...
Things always change, pages turn, chapters begin and end. You'll always be beloved to us as our "Shabby Chic" lady with impeccible style. Listen closely to God's voice for your next "assignment" and trust that His hand will guide you if you will let Him...
Barb
How superb to know all that matters is well with you. So many of our lives are just a tad shabby at the moment, but everthing that really matters - family, health and home - remain ever so chic. Kudos Rachel.
ReplyDeleteRachel,
ReplyDeleteIt's time to smell the roses, even if you feel some have wilted. There is a benefit to what happened and I am sure that it's sometimes hard to know just what, why etc......
Enjoy the time with your son, even though as they get older, they tend to not need us as much. I can speak from experience, my son is 23.
Ciao
Rachel,I've never ever written to anyone on line, but just wanted you to know that you have been a huge inspiration to me and I wish you nothing but peace and a new found purpose with the next phase of your life. Empty nests can be confusing, but I'm sure you will find your way. Much happiness.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you are soldiering on and that in itself inspires others. Embracing the changes that have overtaken you will be the savior and your deliverance.
ReplyDeleteI look forward as you share your new story on this journey of discovery. May the God of all Comfort sustain and direct you.
I wonder who you'll find yourself to be as simply Rachel. How exciting, to be shifted from the known path to another one, a fresh and unexplored path, inviting you to wander it's length and share in it's secrets.
ReplyDeleteYou've blessed me along the old path, and as I read of your new journey I pray you find joys that cause your heart to flip flop and your dreams to expand their horizons.
Hugs from me, another traveller who's just discovered a different path recently, too.
Rachel...so many times I have wanted to leave a comment...but haven't...you have been such an inspiration to so many...But you've heard all that...You are the reason that I've been able to realize my dreams of opening my oown shop...but I Know you've heard that before too...This quote is something that I read on a Blog ( I hope they will forgive me because I can't remember who's) but...it's been and inspiration to me...I go back to it several times everyday..it make me happy...it gives me hope...it makes me smile...I hope it will do those things for you as well...'May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.' I wish this for you Rachel...Liz
ReplyDeleteAt the end of the day, being you is all you can really be.
ReplyDeleteNothing but the best of luck to you. I look forward to reading more from you ... when you are ready.
I think you will love your new role being just "Rachel Ashwell". That is someone to be VERY proud of. You take care, Sue
ReplyDeletei loved this so much.
ReplyDeleteconnected with it.
thanks for sharing...think i'll go hug my 15 yo kid now and then we'll both mow the lawn.
thanks again...glad i found ya.
so glad to hear a word from you... it's strange, but somehow if your finding a new road to travel, i get a sense the rest of us can do it too! the same, but oh so different. have so loved your inspiration and style through-out the years, i was taken aback when you broke the news of shabby chic's closings. when i look around my home, so much of your lovely things surround me and i am grateful. i'm sooo looking forward to the day of your return...renewed...refreshed...reinspired!!!! and even thought i don't personally know you, because of your life and the things in it, you have touched my life and things in it and i thank you so much!
ReplyDeleteRachel,
ReplyDeleteMaybe you are a writer as much as a designer. I cannot tell you how spot on I think you are with the consumer energy current. Nine years ago I went to the Kingston, Jamaica for four months to study abroad in both Afro-Caribbean dance and jazz music. So much of my memories are held in the adventures of stories told on the stoop outside the student hostel or laughing in the kitchen for hours while cooking and eating, there was no wanting and no agenda. It was a practice in just being. It was life changing! When I returned to the U.S. my awareness was heightened of the "consumeritis" culture we lived in and it was disappointing. I do believe that the things we buy to dress ourselves, our beds and our lives can be an artistic expression of who we are, so I'm not against "shopping" (that sounds like a justification but I'll stand behind it. :), per se. It's just that I think people look around and start with the thought " I have everything I need" again today. The next though then should be given a considerable amount of time to reflect on because when we truly ask ourselves this question, we've got to make sure the answers are real. What do I want?
Jenna
What a wonderful, calm and uplifting post! It's funny how Shabby Chic is about repurposing and reinventing and that's exactly what is happening now. I can't wait to see what's next! Thanks for all the beauty and comfort you've brought to our homes and lives!
ReplyDeleteI AM EXCITED ABOUT YOUR NEW BOOK. CAN'T WAIT UNTIL IT IS DONE. TAKE CARE AND ENJOY WHAT IS...-HEATHER
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing the chages in our lives that we have all had to make.
ReplyDeleteI think it only makes us stronger, better people
Alison
Dear Rachel,
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting. We have been holding our breath and checking everyday to catch a new post from you. We thought about you often as your stores were closing. Our loving thoughts and prayers are with you.
Please continue to blog because we need a connection with you and because your words are so encouraging and positive.
This world needs you Rachel Ashwell! You are original and authentic. Don't ever doubt how important you are. Your creative light is something that nobody can take away from you.
Rest, restore, reinvent...we can hardly wait!
Dear Rachel, You have inspired a generation and more of Shabby Chic
ReplyDeletelovers. Your talent has created many decorating techniques and continues to inspire many with your color pallet and floral patterns.
The term Shabby Chic will always be with you. I see this in antique
stores,gift stores and everyday stores.
Thanks for the inspirations.
NLewis
Oh Rachel
ReplyDeleteYou write so simply, so beautifully, just like your line. I look foward to your posts, so it made me happy to see you blogged. I called my mother right away-thank you for keeping us connected with what is going on in your life. Your snapshot on this post is absolutely breathtaking. Why do not more people appreciate and find beauty in buildings such as these? One day I hope to see in person the lovely scenery and places you describe--Portobello Road and such. Brimfield--how exciting and what a fun treasure hunt to look foward to!!! Wouldn't it be great to run into you there and compare our findings!! Looking foward to future posts-
J.C.
Texas
"Yummy Finds"
Hi Rachel...
ReplyDeleteI did not realize that you and the company had gone through this period in your life until today, when your closed store was mentioned in an L.A. Times article.
I have feelings of such sadness and empathy. We are in the middle of bankruptcy proceedings ourselves, and the past 18 mos, as we struggled to stay afloat and made hard decisions, were some of the most traumatic and soul shaping of my life.
But we...and you...are still here, and I hope you are as excited and nervous about the next chapter as I am.
Thank you SO MUCH for the years of beauty and inspiration, and I cannot wait to see the next version of you unfold...
Warmly,
Carrie
L.A. Mom to Two
(4 year old daughter sleeping under a Shabby Chic Duvet in the next room...)
Thank you for sharing your amazing journey with such eloquence, wisdom, courage & love. You are a woman with a powerful ability and gift to manifest beauty in the world. Your transformation is inspiring to behold, still bringing so much beauty through the gifts of your words & spirit.
ReplyDeleteWe all have to think posive thoughts, even sometimes it's hard. Life is wonderful, and don't forget to live today. You never know what tomorrow brings. Carpe diem.
ReplyDeleteLove, Mette
What an exciting, bright road of adventure you have before you! Enjoy defining your own structure!
ReplyDeleteSo lovely to have your son home for the summer. Have lots of fun at the beach!
ReplyDeleteReinventing ourselves is such a necessary process. Sometimes it comes when we want, oftimes not, but there is always a plan and a direction and enormous blessings when we're open to the process.
Enjoy the journey. Can't wait to see where it takes you!
hugs,
~Marilee
You write so beautifully. Glad to see the post. Be well and happy as you reinvent,
ReplyDeletePat
Patricia Rose-A Potpourri of Fabric, Fragrance and Findings
www.patriciarose-apotpourri.com
www.patriciarose-apotpourriof.blogspot.com
Glad to see you posting again! You've been missed. One day at a time,honey. One day at a time.
ReplyDeleteRachel, I am so inspired by your resilience and faith!! Thank you for reminding us of what's important... And thank you for sharing this new journey with us!!
ReplyDeleteIsabel
Best wishes to you. You are an icon to me; I have loved your books and your style for so long. You have inspired so many others to be creative and make treasures out of "trash". What wonderful things you have done, and I know there is more ahead.
ReplyDeleteBlessings, Lisa
Sounds like you have turned a corner in your thinking. It is so hard to leave the comfort of the known and move towards the unstructured. Remember this is a gift of time in your life.
ReplyDeleteI can relate to thinking in the "now". I look at my four children and just want to hold on to it a bit longer...I think we all need to be a little more in the now.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your trip and time with your dad : )
You maybe beginning yet another chapter in your life by the sounds of it....embrace... :)
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to let you know that your shabby chic style has inspired me to do a room makeover! My sister and i went garage sale-ing/antiquing this past weekend and I am going to do a shabby chic guest bedroom makeover! Thanks for the inspiration and the great style you have created.
ReplyDeleteDear Rachel, I went on your your web site to order my daughter new linens tonight. It seems like just yesterday that I did her room in wildflowers and stripes...but it was almost 12 years ago!
ReplyDeleteI am so very sorry to see that your beautiful stores are gone. I am filled with tears as I am writing this to you now. I can't even imagine how you must be feeling.
You have become that friend that I turn to in the middle of the night when I second guess any design decision and I have and I run to check out every last page of your books (I have them all) to help me make a better decision. I always have to go with "what Rachel would do".
I feel like I've been to your home so many times care of you wonderful books and stores and now I am left on my own to wonder "what would Rachel do"?
I wish you the happiness that you have always brought to me. My husband always jokes about how much happier I get just walking through the doors at one of your stores. I hope that you know that what you did was beautiful and important and meant something to so many people.
So to my dear "friend" Rachel, "Keep Calm and Carry On".
With a world of thanks...Jackie in Princeton, NJ
Rachel,I was so sorry to read about the store closing. I will be praying that you will have a peace about it. I'm happy your son is home. You are a talented gifted person and you will find your way. I have kept up with you for years and you are a classy person. Take care and know that so many people are here for you. Trish
ReplyDeleteit's sort of ironic that now are the best times to create a shabby chic look in our homes and your stores have sadly closed. Ever the optimist, I look forward to what you will bring the design world next-you began a revolution in shaking people up to look at the world in sweet, forgiving, creative ways and that's something that will last forever.
ReplyDeleteEven now, I'm hoping to find a Shabby Chic Squadgy sectional somewhere for a new design journey I am on in my home...hopefully,I can find one while treasure hunting :) just like the original thought of Shabby Chic.
Rachel, you're an inspiration, especially in these tough days. All the best.
ReplyDeletewow!! it's amazing how many people write to you, that is a blessing! I am a Venezuelan lady that used to live in Florida until July 2007, now I am in my country starting a new life with my husband and my three daughters, one of them is in College right now. Fortunately I still see your show on TV and that make feel at home, your point of view on things helps me to accept life as it's coming and continue enjoying it in a simple way. I hope that you can reach whatever you want and I wish you the best in life. God bless you. Mireya.
ReplyDeleteI guess I have been living under a rock and only today found that Shabby Chic is closing when I started reading through your blog again. We went to Lenox Mall in Atlanta over the weekend, and I almost started jumping up and down when I saw SHABBY CHIC on the directory - I didn't even know it was there at one time. We hurried over to find it dark and closed up, and I was crushed. Now I find out that it's worse than I thought and am struggling to hold back tears. I am relieved, though - SO RELIEVED - to know that products will still be available at Target - thank goodness!! Honestly, those were the only ones I could really afford (except for certain things on eBay), and boy, did I buy them up when they came out. :) When I lived alone, my entire house was done in that style. My dining room was painted light pink with vintage painted white furniture. My iron bed had every floral linen I could fit onto it. I constantly pored over your books. When my fiance and I bought our first house together, he asked me if he had to live in a dollhouse. :) He was very pitiful about it. So we found a compromise. Most of my pink went to red, and there are still floral prints and old, chippy painted furniture in many places, and newer things that are more in line with his style too. But I have one room that I am working on that will be all mine, and it will be bursting at the seams with all my flowery things, the armoire handmade by my grandfather, the iron daybed with your Target linens, and all kinds of wonderful things. Whatever can't fit now will be saved for someday if we have a daughter. Every time I walk in that room, I'm going to smile and sigh in contentment, just as I do when I flip through your books, because this is a style that truly makes me feel wonderful inside and at peace with everything. And I still have white slipcovers...you introduced me to those, and even with 4 dogs and 3 cats in the house, no sofa makes me smile so much as one covered in a slightly rumpled white slipcover, and I am determined to make it work.
ReplyDeleteRachel, you did not just create a line of home products. You helped to create a WAY OF LIFE. It is by no means a fleeting trend. You have inspired countless people to decorate their homes in a way that also decorates their LIVES. You have so much to be proud of, and we, your devotees, have so much to be thankful for. Please, whatever happens, don't stop creating. Maybe the times are changing...so what?! Why not just adapt to that? Continue on with the Target line that everyone can afford and come up with new ways to show people that beautiful style can happen on a budget; it's what you've said all along, but now the time is ripe for people to really hear it. And the way you repurpose vintage items - well, that is green, and we all know "green" is the big thing. :)
I also wanted to add that even though I haven't gone all the way back in the blog, it sounds like your mom passed away a few months ago, and I wish to tell you how deeply sorry I am for you having to experience that. I lost my own four years ago. It does not ever go back to "normal." You are not suddenly and magically "okay" again. But it DOES get more manageable over time. You learn how to live this new life in this new, strange world without Mom here. You change in ways you never could have expected, and you find new compassion for people and all living things even when you had it before. And she is never going to be completely gone from you; once a mom, always a mom, and she is keeping an eye out for her girl (and your kids) even when you don't feel it. Journaling has really helped me cope.
I just want you to know you are going to make it through all of this...through losing your mom, through losing your stores. Your stores are not the core of who you are; your character and your amazing ability are, and nothing can take that away. And your mom will always reside at your core as well. Much love to you, and thank you for doing what you do.
We all need time to be ourselves...we are so many different faces to others..the mother..the lover..the hired help...the daughter...the go-between...the peacemaker....so go Rachel and be you....xx
ReplyDeleteA lovely image and words as always. I love the idea of finding beauty in imperfection and your favourite pink is faded red. I saw on another Blog (The Vintage Rose) that the Blog owner compared Blogging to scrapbooking and I suppose it is a big scrapbook.
ReplyDeleteIt's such a major transition time for you and our planet. When our children are older it can be tough as the roles change.It doesn't seem to matter who we are - Goldie's Hawn autobiography A Lotus in the Mud was very poignant on her feelings of loss as her children grew. Starting to rant but wanted to thank you for the inspiration as always. Keep calm and carry on!
GOOD TO KNOW YOUR DOING WELL.
ReplyDeleteHUGS FROM MAINE
You have been and always will be an inspiration to so many...take that to heart and know whatever lies ahead of you will be grand!!! Best wishes in your new endeavors. xo Cindy
ReplyDeleteRachael... just staying connected..like you said your garden is blooming.. now it's time for you to stop & smell YOUR roses...enjoy every moment with your children & dad. God Bless... xoxo laura
ReplyDeleteHi Rachel,
ReplyDeleteMy first encounter with 'Shabby Chic' was about 8 & a half years ago when I flipped open a US home decorating magazine whilst I was on a lunch break at work...well needless to say, that particular article & pictures changed my way of home decorating ideas forever.
Your line of living with imperfections really struck a chord with me & I have to say from that day on my whole way of looking at life changed.
Gone were the ideas of if something was marked, that it was now not usable & put out of sight...I found myself trawling garage sales & markets in search of pretty china, to be used today - not just for 'special' days & occasions.
Life has thrown you a few 'imperfections' but at least you can still see the beauty in it all.
Enjoy your 'you' time!
Sarah
NSW Australia
I can understand how difficult it must have been on the 30th. Know that you have many fans and followers that will help you in any way as you reinvent! I agree with Gretchen...God has bigger and better things in store for you! Keep your chin up!
ReplyDeleteI can only imagine how difficult it has been for you, especially as you experienced your store closings. Know that you have many fans and followers who are in your corner. I agree with Gretchen. I feel that God has bigger and better plans in store for you! I am a proud owner of 4 pieces of your furniture (though I wish I could have gotten even more of your slip covers!) and happy to have been touched by your creativity. I look forward to your future entries and your reinvention!
ReplyDeleteOh Rachel
ReplyDeleteYou will always be our Shabby Chic Queen! Your style and personality is our joy! You've helped in spire and create wonderful homes for countless families across the world! I cherish all I've learned from you! The best is yet to come! Happy gardening and decorating and being a warm and lovely mum! Lori
You changed the way we decorated our homes, you changed the way we value old things, you have been a busy girl!
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Linda
well said I enjoyed reading your little story ;)
ReplyDeleteDear Rachel,
ReplyDeleteIt was Shabby Chic that first taught me to see beauty in imperfection, in the aged, in "well-used", in the faded, and in re-use of what has been in the family for years. I have forever lost any interest in the new, the sleek, and that which is perfectly matched. I so appreciate what I have learned from your books and your television show. I truly believe to everything there is a season. And a new season will arrive. For the truly creative there is endless reinvention. I wish you the best in the future and look forward to your future beautiful endeavors.
Will you be in Brimfield in July? If so, I would love to meet up with you Rachel for a chat if you want to connect with someone there.
ReplyDeleteRachel,
ReplyDeleteYou have inspired the world as "the shabby chic lady". Your design visions and outlook have always inspired me since your very 1st book. I can't wait to see what you are coming out with next!
God bless!
Shelley
Shabby Chic will never close.
ReplyDeleteYou opened it in all of us.
Garden & Be Well, XO Tara
Rachel, So sad to hear your store closed. You are a amazing lady with many talents. Thanks for your encouragement and to remember to be thankful for our kids appreciate the reminder. We get so busy sometimes and forget that hug.. Thank you...
ReplyDeleteRachel,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed all aspects of Shabby Chic for years. You have influenced more more people than you will ever know. I count you as as one of my inspirations for my creative and entrepreneurial endeavors. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for Shabby Chic. Best Wishes,
Kathleen W.
During a difficult time in my life I discovered Shabby Chic. The beautiful patterns and colors restored my heart and brought peace to my day....I wish you great happiness and may blessings always find the way to your door.....
ReplyDeleteRachel
ReplyDeletelove your posts. You truly are a special person who is so talented and able touch and reach so many people you have inspired so many people including myself i will never forget the brunch you made for Camille and Franny and I. keep your chin up god is working in you !
love ya!
Sara Randall (Beason)
Ted's sister
Well, it's very sad to hear about stores closing down, although 20 years is a long run. enjoy your new life.
ReplyDeleteSusan the owner of Blue Springs Home in Costa Mesa, CA told me you will be at her store in Oct. of this year with your book. I look forward to meeting you! Ashley
ReplyDeleteDear Rachel,
ReplyDeleteIn these last 20 years you have inspired me and brought so much beauty into my life. I will forever be looking for your next book, next project, next creation! Take as much time as you need, I will be here. Thank you for sharing your journey-God Bless You Always-Linda
Rachel...As a life long Shabby Chic customer I applaud your positive attitude and I know whatever you do next will be done in fabulous style as is everything and anything you endeavor. ((hugs))) and God Bless. Wendy
ReplyDeleteHi Rachel..love collecting chippy(in every room!)and photographing.I saw an old vintage beach building with chippy aqua I have to take pic of....'townie's' think I am nutty!? They always ask me "Why are you taking a picture of 'THAT'? Ugh! New Englander's are surrounded by chippy.Thank you for opening my eyes to the beauty that is around me under gray skies!
ReplyDeleteSo refreshing,inspiring..lovely blog too!
Thank You Denise
Hull,Massachusetts
PS Forgot to mention an elderly shabby artisan,one of the first is having an estate sale her roses are heavenly.I took pics for her and posted on my blog with her contact information.
Being a mom is a gift! I am looking forward to your reinvention!
ReplyDeletemary
hoganfe handmade
handbag originals
Dear Rachel,
ReplyDelete108 comments before mine, and I'm not one bit surprised. So many of us are your loyal fans, own your books, have bought your lovey creations. And we will continue... as soon as you release that book.
Thank you for sharing your honest words, and the ones I loved most were "Tomorrow is plenty far away. That makes today a lot more important. But now is where we are." Rachel Ashwell - from your previous post. So true, and I wish I was as good at being steady, as you are. Always, A loyal Rachel Ashwell fan Vicki
Hello, dearest Rachel! I discovered you and Shabby Chic 9 years ago. For years before that I was a "closet" lover of all things vintage, worn, scuffed, pink, ruffly, etc. In fact, I really did hide my "shabby" treasures that I found at flea markets and in alley trash piles. I did not understand why I liked the very things everyone else seemed to threw away. And, I could not yet understand my love for combining primitive wooden trunks and cupboards with ornate bronze candlesticks. Not until I found you and Shabby Chic! Finding your book and getting to understand your Shabby Chic style through your writing and photos was a Godsend! I began to not only understand my love of shabby and chic together...but my previously hidden style and ability to express it started to flow. Thanks to you!
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I built a house later that same year...and everything we chose (from the paint colors, floors, hardware, light fixtures, etc.) was chosen using my "muse" (a Shabby Chic eurosham with clusters of roses). Everything that entered my home was beautifully worn and appreciated...and looked great with that eurosham! All four of my children have been raised in a "Shabby Chic" home (I even handmade all of our home's curtains with Shabby Chic I had mailed from your Chicago store) so we all get to see and enjoy your creations every day!
I was terribly saddened (for you and for myself) when I learned that Shabby Chic was closing. It was especially sad because we (as a family) are also going through economic difficulties due the the recession. We are preparing to leave behind the home we built (my perfectly shabby home). It is not our wish, but rather a necessity. So, for nine wonderful years I lived in my shabby-inspired home....and learned from you, your style, and your creations. Sadly, at the same time now....each of us is having to say goodbye to something we love and something that was a huge part of our lives. My heart aches for you....and, selfishly, for myself. However, I am so very thankful for the things I was allowed to discover, enjoy, and love along the way. Thank you, Rachel, for sharing your style with me. Thank you for helping me "come out of the closet" with my love for the old, the beautiful, the worn, and the pink!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! And, most importantly....may God bless you, keep you, and guide you into your new endeavors!
Christin in Minnesota
Dearest Rachel,
ReplyDeleteA life's work transformed and changed in a moment....
A flash of twenty years,children are born and grow up, beautiful mums and dads grow old...some stay some move on to the heavenlies.
Then suddenly the earth shudders and shakes and all that we know and love falls through the cracks....
Lovely old cracks...much like shabby furniture our lives are made over into something even more gorgeous,chippy and unique,finding just the right spot to glow,be cherished,and sparkle in.
Ah...such is your life...may the heavenlies reach down into your heart and cause you to burn with firey life.
Kathy
Rachel, I was very surprised to hear the news, just today actually. Your Faith is carrying you along I see and I suppose that is what this life is all about. It's not meant to be all comfy all the time. We are here to learn and grow and part of that is developing our God given talents, which you have certainly done. Please dont dissapear!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the moving, there are some wonderful memories here and articles that you were so sweet to share with us!
ReplyDeleteLeslie
are all your california stores closed?
ReplyDeleteI have always like your style and I recently purchase one of your books , i really like all the tips and I hope to have you back in business.
ReplyDeletedear Rachel are you planing to open any stores in california? are all your stores closed?
ReplyDeleteRachel, I will miss you and your beautiful way of life. You gave me such inspiration and I thank you very much. I loved your show, your stores, and your books.
ReplyDelete-Phillis
Rachel, Thank you so much for all your wonderful inspiration. I loved your show, your stores, and your books. I truly wish you all the best.
ReplyDelete- Phillis
RACHEL, I miss your store in New York so much!
ReplyDeleteHope you are up and running with a new one soon.
See you at Barnes & Noble in October for sure. It will be great to have you back in person.
As wonderful Winston Churchill said: "Never never never never give up"!
Best regards,
Mara