I love all things bright and beautiful, and today I'm particularly in the mood for bright, bold colors and patterns. I've put together a few images that I found on Pinterest, and I think these are gorgeous in their own ways -- from floral to contemporary to textiles.
My great aunt passed away this morning in Paris. She split her time between her native Paris and her husband's native Bangkok. She was 91. Aunty Suzanne was from another era - when impeccable manners were the norm - of which she exemplified. She had been a widow for decades and was so in love with her husband (my grandfather's cousin and my mom's godfather) that when she would tell us stories of when they were young her cheeks would go all rosy. It was lovely to see. Her kindness will always be an inspiration to me. She gave me access to the stories of a generation in my family now gone, and I am so fortunate to have been able to know dear Aunty Suzanne. It gives me so much happiness to know that she and her beloved husband are now reunited.
The French duo, "Herman Dune" make songs and videos that put a smile on my face. This one, "My Home is Nowhere Without You" showcases the quirky and creative pair. I hope you enjoy!
It's the simplest things in life that when we take the time to really enjoy, we can allow ourselves to be happy. Whether it is a pot shared with friends or a cup enjoyed alone, tea is one of those little things in my life that always makes me happy.
I love this quote by Robert Louis Stevenson for both its ability to apply to all of us who garden and also life in general. Stevenson is probably best known for his book "Treasure Island," which I happen to absolutely adore. Just thinking about it makes me want to read it again!
Here in Madison, it's peak peony time. These top-heavy beauties are blooming, adding bursts of color to my garden as well as all over town. And their fragrance - how does one even describe it other than absolute loveliness?
a few peonies from my garden along with a bloom from my favorite clematis, "Josephine"
Especially on vacation, I usually stick to taking photos with my "real" camera. But, there are times when my apps on my iPhone do the trick and give a quality to the photos that look a little vintage. Plus there are time when I just don't feel like pulling out my big camera and lens. I'm partial to the iPhone app Hipstamatic, though I know Instagram seems to be more popular. These photos were all taken out and about in Rome using my Hipstamatic app, and I love the look achieved.
the label design on this emerald green water bottle caught my eyes
we would pass by this bike multiple times a day on our way to and from our hotel - the color, design, and that back seat always made me smile
cappuccino for breakfast
along with a croissant - more sweet than French croissants which I prefer
For those of you who follow my blog regularly, you know I love to try to capture candid photos of locals when I'm traveling. I think it's so interesting to see how the locals live. And while I was in Florence, the one things that struck me as a definite quality of the locals was bicycling: going to and fro around town, getting to work and back home, and running errands. And in a city where the streets are predominately flat, but extremely narrow, and parking spots are few and far between, cycling does make the most sense. Here are a few shots I captured of the bicycling culture in Florence. One last thing, check out the nice shoes - especially the womens' - sported in these photos! Form over function!
I'm not really a "car person" - however - I'm definitely a sucker for many things small and cute. Seemingly pocket-sized Fiats caught my eye everywhere I turned while in Italy. I think these cars are completely adorable. And, we rented one too. Driving around the Tuscan countryside in a teeny Fiat seemed to make our Italian vacation a little more authentic!
Ready to get moving on this Monday morning? Afrocubism's "Nima Diyala" will be the perfect start to your day.
Afrocubism is an amazing group and record, showcasing the cross-cultural ties that music can provide. As the African diaspora spread its peoples' musical roots and heritage to the New World, the rhythmic beats and sounds of West Africa fused with Spanish influences planted during Colonial reign. Though the history is anything but pleasant, the end musical result is pure bliss. Afrocubism is headed up by Cuban guitarist and singer Eliades Ochoa, and Ochoa is joined other by Cuban and Malian musicians, including one of my favorites, Toumani Diabete. I hope you enjoy!
One color I never tire of is what I call "leaf" green. Of course leafs come in all shades of green, but the shades of green I prefer are bright and somewhat citrusy in hue.
I spent the day in the garden, and though it was hard work, it was completely enjoyable. I can't think of when I feel more clarity of mind than when I'm gardening. Here are two painted garden scenes - one by Klimt and one by Monet. I find their choice of colors beautiful. I can only imagine that the artists were quite inspired by these scenes.
Klimt's "Flower Garden" from 1908 - I love the colors
Monet's "The Artist's Family in the Garden" Isn't this a wonderful scene?
The French breakfast radish seeds that I sowed just a couple of weeks ago have quickly turned into the 1st radish "harvest" of the season. They are crisp, crunchy, and spicy -- just the way I like radishes. Last night I picked a few of these ruby beauties along with a sprigs of mint and chives.
from the garden...radishes, mint, and chives
I can't tell you how happy I am that the vegetable garden is getting back into the swing of things. The kale and broccoli rabe are still going strong, and the arugula is ready to be picked any day now.
Last night I was able to connect with my "oldest" friend over dinner before she heads off on a new adventure. We've known each other since we were 10, and through the past 24 years we've seen each other grow in countless ways. I think what amazes and delights me the most about this friendship, is that we never ever stop having new things to talk and laugh about.
