Alabaster!

Hi Friends:

Years ago, when Shabby Chic first arrived on the scene as a casual, practical decorating style for families, I was hooked. The focus was on cozy comfort and shunned the precious and stiff. Slipcovering, repurposing and utilizing vintage time-worn items contributed to both character and function. There was no theme beyond liking what you liked and recognizing that an eclectic look can be successful, warm and inviting. I was drawn to whites and creams in everything from dishes to linens to painted furniture for its elegant simplicity and ability to work in any room. Alabaster accessories became a favorite.

If you are not familiar with it, alabaster is a soft, smooth stone made of sedimentary gypsum rock formed from a type of calcium. It can be found in many countries especially England, the United States and Italy. Generally white or translucent, it resembles marble. Both are carved into decorative works, but alabaster is more affordable. Alabaster pieces are timeless and have great vintage appeal. It's also a great way to add an earthy element to your decor. Have a look at what I have collected! If you like the look, you can find alabaster lamps and accessories at antique stores, flea markets and on eBay.

Alabaster Urn Lamp

Mini Alabaster Lamp Purchased in Volterra, Italy

Alabaster Grape Cluster 

Carved Alabaster Fruit

Alabaster Soap Dish and Cup from Volterra, Italy  

 

Lisa and Nikki's Friday Finds!

Hi Friends:

What has inspired and delighted us this week? Here they are - the sights, sounds, tastes and one-of-a-kinds we loved!

Bring a little nature inside with this pinecone garland window decor. All it takes is a few varieties of pinecones, some twine and burlap bows!

A chance meeting with designer Rachel Ashwell, founder of Shabby Chic at her store in SoHo, New York City. I have been a follower of her time-worn style and ideas on practical living for more than 20 years! 

Don't you want to crawl into this bed in her store?

A wall of yarn at Purl Soho in New York City. If you knit, crochet or enjoy any type of needle work, follow their craft blog, the Purl bee, where they publish great ideas and you can shop for project supplies.

Erika Conaway in the Broadway musical A Chorus Line currently touring across America. Winner of nine Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, this show is a must see! Catch it in a city near you.

I may be late to the party, but I have arrived and am totally hooked on Downton Abbey  airing on PBS! If you're like me and have some catching up to do, you can find Season 1 and 2 on Hulu. Besides having an irresistible story line, this Masterpiece Classic series offers vintage and antique lovers an opportunity to revel in the lifestyle of an aristocratic British family in the early 1900's.  Violet Crawley played by Maggie Smith is a favorite character. Take a look at some of her best one-liners!