Time has flown by, I have been soooo busy. I have attempted to be not so busy with a mini stay vacation.....which turned into a teeny time off.
But that's the downside of not wanting to take time out from life.......however I would be lying to say I've been cranky and should at the very least give my friends, family and work village, a rest from ME........
DAD AND FAMILY.....
In May dad made the move from London to Los Angeles.
Since mum passed, my dad has been lost, and he/we thought returning to his roots in the USA might help him feel grounded. (dad was born in Chicago but has lived in London for 60 years) Moving was quite an ordeal emotionally, logistically and practically, with the whole big ocean to cross.....
Dad was diagnosed with Alzheimers so he is living nearby in a facility that supports his needs. I am learning how to handle the disease and my relationship with Dad. Its not easy, but a lesson in tolerance, acceptance and patience.
So this blog isn't all news to y"all. I am learning all the bells and whistles of Instagram so I can share my journeys ......
Not so far from my LA life, but a world away.......my cell phone and texting don't work so emails support less of a "knee jerk" reaction to questions. So I do unwind a little.
Malibu is world famous (ala Baywatch), for bikinis and waves............my Malibu is a little different. I of course love the warm ocean breeze, but will happily enjoy a long walk on a grey day....
My sad songs fit right at home on these days.
As silly as it sounds, sometimes I just love to putter amongst my own stuff. When I get so busy I find myself having to delegate out "to do " things in my life, that I actually love to do, laundry, ironing, folding is one of those things......
The joy of seeing my linen cupboard, filled with archives of my sheets, from years gone by, gives me simple joy.
And then sometimes, I am happy to have a little celebration.......In Malibu the star of the show is always the ocean........ early start and early good nites seems to be the rhythm of social gatherings........
Talking of parties......
A friend of mine decided to have an impromptu birthday party and so I had a lovely excuse to create some magic.....
The vibe of the party was somewhat country and I wanted to keep the flower budget down due to how many I needed. So I focused on bundles of wildflowers placed on foam inside several wooden barrels.
My friend had a favourite supermarket bought cake. I gave it some specialness with a few roses.
And then I sprinkled extra petals on the path... I certainly didn't come up with this idea but each and every time I implement it, it always feels so magical......
It was truly a lovely event, many WOW moments without too much fuss and bother.....
And now back to work.....
Recently I worked on some Fall 2012 product collections......
My imagination visited Italy, Russia and Paris and aesthetically told stories......
I have never been to Russia, but I have been fascinated by what I have read of the cottages, fabrics and eclectic beautiful hodge-podge decor .
Often my decor is thought Of as being oversized, but actually I love love small spaces. I have been focusing on smaller scale furniture for fellow cottage and shack lovers....
Patience is a virtue in my world.....process of product development. It takes time to get all the little "je ne sais quoi" details. Getting the patina, the hand of the fabric, or the finish of the wood, is no easy feat.....it doesn't always work. Sometimes an inspiration from an authentic vintage piece just doesn't work out. And sometimes with a lot of effort and trial and error something wonderful is created, usually through a collaborative passion and understanding.
My last little share is a surprise delight to me.....
Over the past few years I have managed to gain a pound here and a pound there. To the point my favourite jeans had to be put in the (don't fit but can't part with, side of my closet!!!!)
I also just wasnt feeling great.....I have tried many different diets overtime.....A friend of mine invited me to join a weightwatchers group with her and some other ladies.
While the point system is there to help with portion control, I have found that it has helped give me the structure to make my meals a special moment. Whatever and whenever I eat, I appreciate, and I make as pretty as I can......
After weight watchers no "on the go" snacks anymore.....
We meet once a week, for our weigh in and our camaraderie time. We share stories and frustrations, and I find this process of a support group very powerful. something I haven't done much in my life. And on those busy days when I think I don't have time to do the 10,000 steps a day, (part of our goal to success), I remember my team and off I go, one step at a time.....And the pounds, little by little, are leaving us all.
To come......
Next blog not so far away....
I just get so inspired by your ideas and creations.
ReplyDeleteI have slowly collected your items over the years and they are things I could never part with.
I can't even imagine having your archives filling the cupboards....sigh.
Good luck with your Dad.
Amy
Missed you! Nice to see such a nice long piece. I love the instagram photos and especially the French bedrooom! I am an anglophile/frenchie at heart. Much love and patience with you and your father -
ReplyDeleteDeborah
oh this is nice. nice all around~its good to hear you thinking out loud cuz I feel like you let a little bit of the insides of you shared with the rest of us....i understand the part about your dad as that is happening with me too. love the bit of instagramming and the watching of the pounds is a necessary thing isn't it...or 3 pounds leads to 15....
ReplyDeleteI can't remember how I found your blog, but there is so much beauty in it! I wish I could bring your style to my home here in Alabama! How beautiful it would be!
ReplyDeleteI just adore everything that you touch Rachel and the authenticity that you are all about. Nuff said...
ReplyDeletexox
Janet
Rachel, thank you for inspiring me today with your beautiful photographs and story of your journey. So sorry to hear about your dad. Life is so hard sometimes. I am feeling the deep heartache of aging parents.
ReplyDeleteYour photographs tell the story of a life filled with hope and beauty.
Hugs,
Mary
I was so thrilled to see you letting us into your life again, almost was giving you up for lost. Wow, you make summer look just magical......thanks for all of your fun updates....oh, and WW is the best, lifetime here, high five!!!!! Hugs from Florida...Susan
ReplyDeleteIt's so nice to catch up with what has been going on in your world. You make me crave the smell of crisp cotton that's been out on the line all day;D
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThat party looks absolutely amazing! Best of luck on wieght watchers!
ReplyDeleteLove your post Rachel! Love you! I had my first trip tp Paris in May and can't wait to go back! O love your Russian reference too. May I suggest a fab book...A Song Without Words. About Countess Sophia Tolstoy, a photo journal by her, not unlike a blog. Fascinating. And I am going to try decorating a birthday cake with roses. So pretty. As always, you provoke thought and inspiration!
ReplyDelete~jane
I REALLY LOVE LOVE the smaller scale furnishings- very English and feminine.. Are they ready for purchase yet???
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHi Rachel!!! It's always great to follow you & your lifes journey here & on facebook...your honesty & the magical gifts you share with us always touches my heart. Thank you for letting us into your special world. God bless you & your family always. xo Laura
ReplyDeleteWow...such a beautiful, touching, and inspiring blog in so many ways! I missed your blogging even though I've been following you on Facebook because in FB we get a comment with a photo but here is where you pour out your heart to us. Good luck with Weight Watchers, your new projects, and especially with your darling dad! Loved that cake!!
ReplyDeleteAs always...love ya'
Ray Ramirez
Your blog is like a breath of fresh air. I wait so patiently for it each time! Congrats also on making the cover of "Where Women Create". LOVE, LOVE, LOVE all that you create. Melissa
ReplyDeleteI am so happy to be following you on Facebook and to read your blog and have always been so inspired by all that you do. I wish you the best with your father . Trudy
ReplyDeleteHey Rachell, youre story about your mum and dad sounds so familiar. My grandma past away 3 years ago and she was the glue to. My mother know learns here dad from a whole different side. Just as we do. I hope he will enjoy that he is moved :).. i love youre pictures..all have such a calmness and peace ..
ReplyDeletegreets Sanne
www.serviesenbrocante.nl
www.serviesenbrocante.blogspot.com
Thank you for sharing! Not only are you so creative but also so real.
ReplyDeleteWow thats wonderful
ReplyDeleteHave a nice day!
Kathrine
De jolies ambiances comme toujours.
ReplyDeleteBonjour de Provence.
Manon
Oh, how I love your blog post! Facebook & Instagram are just not the same somehow....
ReplyDeleteYour Malibu time sounds sweet...My mother has dementia...I'm glad you are creating some small space furniture...and the birthday party decoration turned out enchantingly!
I'm glad you've found the support and camaraderie of friends. As challenges increase, so does our need for this kind of interchange, I think.
LOVED THIS POST!!! just lovely and so inspiring...missed you...sending you love and light XOXO
ReplyDeleteOh I am sooooo delighted you are back. Each day for 3 months, I faithfully check for your blog looking for a new post. You just made my day today ... I sat down with a pretty tea cup of coffee and piece of toast and took the time to read your lovely blog, never mind all the things I have to do today. I love hearing from you. And I hope you go back to your blog! You know Love is in the Details ...
ReplyDeletebut also remember to keep it simple. ^_^
All my best to you, your Dad and adoring Lily and Jake!
xo
Lisa Marie K
Loved the post!!! Gorgeous pictures, such an inspiration!!!! Take care of your father and yourself. If you got the time take a look att this lovely swedish blog from my small town. It´s got translator.
ReplyDeletewww.mokkasin.blogspot.se/
Love from Sweden
I agree with Rebecca Rachel....It's nice to see a post from you again....!!
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to hear about your Dad....It must be reassuring knowing he is so much closer & in good hands....
I look forward to seeing you in September....FREE of those pesky pounds....**wink**....!
Cheers from Oz,
Tamarah :o)
Rachel
ReplyDeleteI don't check your blog but just every once in awhile, being one of my 'guilty pleasures.' Had a really crummy day, and thought your special brand of 'ruffles' would cheer me. Lo and behold, you and I are going through the same situation with our dads; the same health issue, the same trying to reconnect, now that mom's gone (yes, our "glue"). Good friends, you have, and who can't argue cake and roses for the soul? And congratulations on not being too proud for Weighwatchers...
XO
Sweet Rachel...
ReplyDeleteWhy do I wish I lived next door to you at ANY given moment??
Because of your amazing creativity & not only your simple, shabby ways, but also for your simple, fresh & honest approach to life.
I love reading everything you write. There is always a bit of hidden wisdom tucked away in each one of your posts, something to hang on to for a rainy day. You are able to turn the everyday into MAGIC...I ADORE that!
So glad your daddy was able to move closer to you, I wish you both love & support as you figure out this part of your journey. Just know, you have made my journey sweeter by being here.
Much love...
Susie
It is always a treat to visit with you via your blog! I was very touched by the photo of you and your dad...miss mine terribly!
ReplyDeleteWishing you lovely days in the park with him!
Thanks for all of your simply elegant inspiration...I have just joined the family at "Vignettes"
and Lori & I were just reminiscing about your visit to her store. Hoping you will visit again sometime!
Thanks for sharing your WW experience...it is time for me to go back...such a great program!
Wishing you a lovely week!
Debbie
I checked in about a million times, seeing if you'd posted over the months. So glad to see you back to the blog. I think it's perfectly fine you took a nice, long break. I loved the look of that party and I especially love the photo of the new white table, crystal chandelier hanging overhead; the elegant with the simple, rustic; perfect. You spoke with such respect for your father and to allow him his dignity with a cruel and undignified, insidious disease. It's good you can be nearby but it's also good that you have a lot of things to consume your interest, not to mention a career and job, because you have to have a blend of responsibilities through the travails of his illness or else you run the risk of going bonkers yourself. I've let caregiving of my elderly parents over the past five years completely dominate my life, so I urge caution; find your balance. Oh, and the Malibu beach...I do know what you mean about the fog. My family would annually rent a beach home at Rincon, near Santa Barbara. The best time I can remember was over Memorial Day weekend, huddled against a bank of sand with our heavy, "fisherman's knitted" sweaters pulled up over our chins for warmth; baking goodies in the oven and glad for the heat in the kitchen; setting up board games and playing for hours. So cozy!
ReplyDeleteI was completely surprised about your experience with Weight Watchers. I'm so glad you shared that! I just never would have expected a celebrity to do something like WW; I guess I'd be thinking along the lines of private dietician, personal trainer, rather than doing something so "regular." It just emphasizes what a real and normal person you are, yet I don't know why I'm surprised by that because, through your books and videos, we've all seen how you live simply/elegantly with lovely, recycled things in large part; you don't have a lot of possessions "for show" but instead for beauty, comfort and function (the mantra, I remind myself with, every day, as I look at my own home, and edit, edit, edit, AKA declutter); nothing seems snobbish with you. For being a famous person, you don't appear to go "over the top." I've always balked at Weight Watchers, but you made it sound like it could be do-able for reluctant people like myself (who also tend to shy away from a group process, especially when it comes to something so sensitive as weight). To me, in all the photos I've seen of you, you certainly never looked like you NEEDED to lose weight! Thanks for the inspiration, truly.
ReplyDeleteRA gosh i hope u realize just how much you are loved, i mean like me ther are so many women who love everything you do say touch and you inspire us to live better and think at a higher level of goodness even if we can't purchase all we want u inspire us to be better people and work with what we have or can create by emulating you and all you represent a gazillion THANK YOUS!!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Rachel, my linen cupboard looks almost as pretty as yours - of course mostly thanks to your designs. Your linen cupboard in Shabby Chic Inspirations made my heart skip a beat. So I lined my linen cupboard with a vintage creamy white and tiny green floral print wallpaper, add in my Shabby Chic and vintage bedding and voilà - something I get joy from everytime I look at it.
ReplyDeleteMy daughter and sister think I'm tragic but I'm a fan for life.
Danielle
YAYYYYY, you're back!!!!
ReplyDeletei can see the creative juices are overflowing, rachel. loving your commentary about just puttering around the house and enjoying your linens. i totally get that and am having such moments this summer myself.
bought more of your linens recently and used the ruffled shams to make quick slipcovers for my kitchen chairs--simply sewed strips for tying and called it a day! what i love is i didn't do any cutting so if i decide to use the shams later, it can happen with a few snips.
love to you.
michele
Hi Rachel! I'm the girl who scooped up the lovely pale blue embroiderd silk bed dressing at the textile show...and was so utterly tongue tied to see you! Well, it now is mounted across my livingroom windows.Thanks for years of inspiration.So delighted with your last blog and looking forward to more! Cindy
ReplyDeleteRachel, Enjoyed your post--missed it the last few months. But totally understand that life can sometimes take over your life! So sorry to hear about your father. My father also had Alzheimers, he passed ten years ago. I also understand the need to be among your “things” taking care of them, folding.... so on. I found those type of actives seemed like the only way to continue to have control over something. When your parents are aging and passing.... all control seems to hard to find. Sorry-- yes I do have control issues!
ReplyDeleteI hope you will find many sweet times with your father.
Praying for you both. Deborah
Love your post and your heart felt honesty.
ReplyDeleteAll the best with your Dad. There's always hidden blessings and lessons.
Just adore your photos. Very inspiring.
Thank you x
Hi Rachel! You are so talented. I'm in LOVE with 'Shabby Chic'!
ReplyDeleteI recently used some of your photos, and also wrote a little about you and your brand, on my blog.
Just wanted to let you know so I don't break any copyright rules!
http://beautymeetsnerd.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-first-sure-symptom-of-mind-in.html
Thank you for being such a wonderful inspiration.
Rachel - I have to tell you about the dream I had last night! I hope you read the comments. Living in Austin, I so loved your shop that was out at the Domain. Especially at Christmas! I would go in and get all the gifts I needed it was so versatile and everything was so lovely. So, in my dream last night, I guess Christmas was coming, so I went into this special room in my house (wish it was real!) and there were all these things I had gotten at your shop and saved to give as gifts and I was pulling them out one by one (beautiful lamps, ribbons, vases, etc) and just so happy as I imagined who each thing would go to. I woke up so happy and inspired. I hope someday that there will be a Shabby Chic here in Austin again, but in the meantime, The Prairie is not so far away. All the best to you Rachel - I wonder if you know how many lives you touch and in how many ways. What a gift!
ReplyDeleteI have to say that was just lovely. And well worth the wait! Xoxoxo
Deleteoh too much loveliness! even the delicious looking breakfast & looking after your Dad, too precious!
ReplyDeleteim so glad i visited here today!
gorgeous thoughts
I enjoyed reading your post and looking at all of the lovely pictures.
ReplyDeletesooooo inspiring and calming! I think Deborah said it well...much love and patience with your dad. We just lost my mother in law to the disease.
ReplyDeleteI loved the photo of Malibu June gloom...we just moved from Dana Point to CT in July...I actually loved June gloom and May gray...it's so peaceful.
Love to see your work1
So excited to read your new post! My best wishes to your father...I hope he's doing well in the US. That table looks fantastic. I wish I had the guts to paint everything white too. I love looking at your style. I'm glad you got a mini break at home. That's what I've done too. Left Vancouver for OXON and mini break at home not doing too much. (I know Oxfordshire is a bit further than Malibu...lol) I'm really looking forward to the new post and small spaces and am enjoying your facebook updates.
ReplyDeleteHi Rachel! When I read this post, I cant help getting loose up and far far dreaming away. The fabrics and the furniture is truly a tresure. I really enjoyd this post!!!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd I understand the hard work inside, about your father and everything about that. Wish you both the best and blessings.
Best regards Caroline
Rachel,
ReplyDeleteI love your blog and your wisdom! I get thrilled every time I see a Shabby Chic post! I just read a book called No More Words by Reeve Lindberg about her mother battling alzheimers. It's well done and I think you would like it.
xoxo
-Kate
Rachel,
ReplyDeleteI've been following your blog for a couple of years, helps me see your inspired mind and feel I know you. Most of what I adore is found shabby and then I chic it! Thanks for all you share!!
Love and prayers for you and Dad. Life is beautiful in all its angles, its like a prism. The spectrum is far ranging and sees infinitely. You'll be blessed with grace at this time.
love and prayers, Melissa
Rachel...like so many others I check often to see if you have had a chance to post. Always a pleasure when I find that you have.
ReplyDeleteDear Rachel,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your talents, creativity and life. I am sorry about your father and glad that you can have him close by now. My brother is only 52 y.o. and is in advanced stages of Alzheimer's. He is cared for at home by family and hospice nurses who visit each day. It' s all too surreal for my family. Bless you and your father.
Dear Rachel,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your talents, creativity and life. I am sorry about your father and glad that you can have him close by now. My brother is only 52 y.o. and is in advanced stages of Alzheimer's. He is cared for at home by family and hospice nurses who visit each day. It' s all too surreal for my family. Bless you and your father.
I am so enjoying reading your books and posts!! I actually just learned about your beautiful creations. I have always loved Laura Ashley and when the store closed years around 10 years ago, I was so disapointed. About a few months ago I was in Barnes and Noble and saw your book for sale. I had no idea who you were or what the shabby chic look was~but I bought the book and just fell in love with all your creations. My daughters and I have totally updated our gloomy rooms with your beautiful sheets,balloon curtains, comforters, pillows etc. Everything looks so much brighter and happier!! My prayers are with your dad. God bless, Rosina
ReplyDeleteWelcome back, it was so lovely to read your honesty about your Dad. Sorry about your Mum and his illness. Lovely post, take care.
ReplyDeleteScarlett
I just discovered you had a blog and I have really enjoyed reading some of it! I love how you take the simplicity and make it beautiful I adore hydrangeas and you made it all look so gorgeous! Traci
ReplyDeleteRachel,
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to say...keeping up with your blog/fb, as a longtime fan/customer --thanks for being sooo real, I would rather purchase from your stores than anywhere else, mostly because of who YOU are, and of course, your fab & magical merchandise!
xo
Hello from a Chicago girl who, although I've loved your style for a very long time, just found your blog today. My best wishes and prayers as you care for your father who, no matter how long he has been away, will always be a "Chicago man" to those of live here. Remember to be kind to yourself as well. It's good to be reminded, sometimes, when caring for others, we must also nourish our own soul and care for our own well being. Your work is as beautiful as it is genuine and honest. Thank you for sharing the beauty that you create and inspiring so many of us. Hugs, Kimberly
ReplyDeleteTo say that your rooms "look the same" would be wrong...but there is always that "flavor"...makes me want to lie down and have a good nap!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the time with your Dad...I lost mine last May and I miss him.
RE: Shabby chic-are there any plans to offer the entire series as a set?
Take care of yourself... ;)
Those purple flowers are so cute. Thanks for sharing all of your fun updates.
ReplyDeletexoxo
~ Herman Swan
So beautiful pictures!
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely day
Tina
Dear Rachel:
ReplyDeleteEvolution...we all need it and will do it if we are growing!
Love your prairie place and the pictures. I lived in Wichita Falls as a child ( Air Force "brat") and like the way you've combined your thoughts...it gives a floral panorama to the land, which is something needed there.
Best wishes to you and yours. Be happy! ; ) Valerie
Dear Rachel:
ReplyDeleteEvolution...we all need it and will do it if we are growing!
Love your prairie place and the pictures. I lived in Wichita Falls as a child ( Air Force "brat") and like the way you've combined your thoughts...it gives a floral panorama to the land, which is something needed there.
Best wishes to you and yours. Be happy! ; ) Valerie A.
I just found your blog through P Allen Smith's blog. I read that you like to wear jeans and was wondering what your favorite brands are. I lost a bit of weight and I wanted to get me a new pair. Thank you,
ReplyDeleteCarmen
Get inspired! I am truly inspired by your compassion in creating that beautiful creation of you. Keep it up!
ReplyDeleteI love your blog. I see that you mentioned you love tiny spaces. How about really tiny, like a tiny home such as mine that is just 8'wide and 18' long. I have some of your wonderful bed coverings in my very tiny shabby chic tiny retreat. Thanks for helping me make my tiny space so wonderful.
ReplyDeleteLove your site, inspiring..!
ReplyDeletePatricia@PatriciasMagicalSanctuaryBlog.com
Nice thoughts and Ideas and I really the creativity here for decorating the house.
ReplyDeleteHi Rachel,
ReplyDeleteThanks for everything. You have truly inspired us. We are market traders from South Wales selling all shabby chic decor. We have just launched our website www.vintageshabbyonline.co.uk We love it.
Thanks for everything
So inspired by everything you do Rachel. I am looking so forward to your new book. Also, delighted to see you are a WW member. How's it going for you? I've been a lifetime member for 12 years now. It works for me! xo
ReplyDelete