Casual Cottage Chic ~ Brocante

Keep Calm and Carry On

 Keep Calm and Carry On was a poster produced by the British government in 1939 during the beginning of World War II, intended to raise the morale of the British public under the threat of impending invasion. The poster was rediscovered in 2000 and has been re-issued by a number of private sector companies, and used as the decorative theme for a range of other products, like pillows, signs, necklaces, t-shirts. How are you keeping calm in order to carry on? Do you stop whatever activities are going on to sit and sip a cup of hot tea or read a book? Do you go for a brisk walk, taking in all that is around you? Find some time for YOU...you deserve it!

Local Signs of Spring

It's the first day of Spring. How do I know? The hot air balloons have taken to the sky, even if it is a cloudy and cool morning for lift-off. The hot air balloons fill our morning sky like polka-dots. The sound of the machine that creates the hot air arouses the neighborhood dogs (including our cocker spaniel, who seems to hear them from inside the house way before we hear them), as the balloons make their graceful ascent over the roof tops and hills. I dare not take a ride but admire those who do venture above in those romantic balloons. Bon voyage Winter...welcome Spring!

  

 
 
 

Chalk Painting with UK Artist/Author Annie Sloan

The drive to Santa Monica (hosted at Annette Tatum's workroom) wasn't as hectic as anticipated. The anticipation of my furniture painting class with Annie Sloan overshadowed the 3 hour drive. And I was not disappointed! Annie's relaxed style and casual approach leaves you feeling warm and welcome. At first glance everything seemed to be very organized and set for a timely, regimented class at the WORKSHOP. But as it usually goes with any true artist, the scene changes as Annie intuitively assesses the interest and skill level of her 14 students who came from all over So. California for this all-day event. The time flew by as myself and other "students" created various beautiful finishes on a variety of wood pieces, including crackling on a square frame and a white-wash finish on a wooden shelf (proudly displayed in my home). Annie thoroughly explained each process and her chalk paints/waxes, while also telling us her background and the approach behind the development of her fabulous brand of Chalk Paint. I enjoyed class and truly appreciate her willingness to share her knowledge and talent with us. It was a magical day. Thank you, Annie Sloan! I'll soon be sharing some of my painted projects!