Did You Notice?

I got a note the today asking me about the name change here at the old blogstead. Well, in case you didn't catch it, I've changed my name. I even added a fun little tune "that's not my name" in case you'd like to cue that up to play on the player at the bottom of the blog.

But, before I get started on explaining the name change, I wanted to send you all the biggest and most sincere hugs for your kind words about my "issues". You all were the bright spot in my day for sure.

Okay, back to the explanation.



As I renovate this house I've struggled immensely. Now, I have never ever struggled to decorate my previous homes. Okay, I lie, I did struggle a bit with my last house, but NOTHING like this place. If you have been a reader of my wee blog, I am certain that you will recall my struggles and frustrations.

I received some great advice. She told me to pay attention to things. Cut out photos from magazines and put them in a file. After a while you will notice a pattern. I also began making notes of things I am instantly drawn to in stores and in other peoples homes. I've been watching a lot more HGTV too.



So, in my effort to be true to my authentic self, I realized that although I adore ruffles, lavender, roses, and all the perfectly feminine looks that I see all over blogland, I don't think I could live with it day in and day out. At first I didn't want to accept that, I wanted to protest and force myself, but that's not right either. I'm blessed that I can love and appreciate so many different styles. I just need to know what is right for me in my home.



First, I know that painted white or cream cabinets are truly for me. Although I adore wood cabinets, cherry and maple and so many woods in between, They don't "speak" to me in the big scheme of things. When I see the creamy white painted doors and walls that we have put in all the redone parts of the home bring a smile to my heart every day. I love how it has brightened up our home.


I have also discovered that the woods that I love are dark and rich. My most favorite piece of furniture is my television armoire which is a wonderful deep, rich mahogany colored stain. But, I also love to see painted pieces of furniture mixed in. I tend to gravitate towards colors and items that remind me of autumn. Those warm, rustic, colors just scream cozy to me. I love the muted feel of some of the mustards and greens and the deep russet reds and oranges that are warm and browned in almost an aged sense.



The feel I want in my home is comfortable. Cozy. Welcoming. I want to create a space that calls to your soul, deep into your spirit, a place you never want to leave and long to return to. I want friends and guests to feel comfortable enough to curl up on the sofa or in a chair, perhaps with a chunky chenille throw and join me in conversation and a cup of hot tea or coffee or perhaps a rich wine.



For me that brings to mind an amazing cottage or perhaps a bungalow or even an old farmhouse. Rich with history, filled with love, welcoming from the moment you see it from the street. The home that embraces you in a hug from the first time you walk through the door. Vintage, rustic, old and new.



I have also been spending a great deal of time trying to name our new business. I became quite connected to sybolism during this time of research. One of my most favorite items was the olive branch. From the book of Genesis in the Old Testament, a white dove carrying an olive branch is a sign of peace. Some notes I came across state that it is known for a sign of hope and peace.



So, where the Olive branch represents Hope and Peace, so does the future of my blog, my life, and my decorating. The symbolism of cottage for me, is home, comfort, welcome, love, cozy, family and friends.





Therefore the new name.

I hope you liked my little story and the journey it took to get here.



May you all be blessed with something wonderful today. Something that brings pure joy to your heart, even if it is for just a moment.