Saturday, June 15, 2013

First Thing In The Morning


I follow the sun.







After my morning tea






 I grab the camera like a 

butterfly net

and run 

from room to room










 


in an attempt to chase

and trap the

fleeting and flittering

 textures








that light







and shadows make



  
in an explosion 


 





or in a quiet vignette












of wonder in my home.












but rather what something
could be 
and where it might 
belong one day


 
 
so that's probably why
  

pinterest via

 
 Therefore on 

Tuesday June 18th

I will begin 

a new writing adventure

that will extend to August 13

so you won't be reading

any new blog posts here

for a while

but you will be seeing me





pop in to visit you.

I'm off to follow the sun


 to look for what isn't there


but what possibly


could be seen


one day. 




 








All photos by Castles Crowns and Cottages
Paper Art by Anita Rivera
       

140 comments:

Sarah said...

So excited about your new adventure. Enjoy the process of every day! Love seeing more of your gorgeous home, but the photo of you is the best. How beautiful you are, and in your jeans and boots no less.
Happy creative summer, dear friend! ~ Sarah

Unknown said...

Anita we too are so excited for your new adventure. We wish you well and we hope you find happiness in exploring things new. Have a super Saturday.
Best wishes Molly

Ivy Clad said...

I am sitting here with a big smile on my face. Such a treat to see around your beautiful French home AND to see YOU! I was reading your post & got to the end & shrieked to my husband, "Look how cute she is!" :D

I love that bit about being more interesting in your head. I'm like that too & think people with big dreams & thoughts are so interesting. Best of luck with your project. I'm sure great things will come from it.

Keri

Jo Potter said...

Beautiful and I'm smiling too!
Lovely post and look at you looking elegant in the last photos.
Enjoy the sun. Children of the sun need to play! :-)

Happy weekend to you!
Jo. xx

Unknown said...

Lovely Anita~exquisite images, whimsical touches, inspiring views and exciting adventures to come as you follow the sun. You look radiant and energized about your new projects. Can't wait to hear more. So happy that you will be popping in and around blog world. You are always thoughtful and eloquent just as your comments on my most recent post for Father's Day. We were both lucky to have had wonderful dads and now husbands that share those familiar qualities. I don't have children of my own, either, so I think we both understand the importance of selecting the right 'one' for sharing life. :)
Enjoy every moment of this next phase Anita!
xx, Heather @ Stylemindchic

Rattus Scribus said...

I guess imagination is what you have when the weather refuses to cooperate, and the weather news keeps missing their forecasts. So I say it's a beautiful sunny day, no matter what the guys in the white coats keep telling me. :)

Ruben

VM Creation Atelier said...

Anita,dear:)*

Your excited and very inspirational post made my Sutarday....!!!

You looks amazing....vibrant,lovely photos:)))*

Wish you wonderful new adventures and I am realy curious,look forward to your new posts:)))*

Sending to you Sunshine hugs from Holland,
***Violetta***

Woodside Park said...

Hi, Anita!!
Greetings from Denmark :) Tom and I have been in Sweden....now we're traveling in Denmark. What a treat to enjoy more of your beautiful home and art pieces!! Truly divine. I love your sofa, Anita. And you look beautiful sitting there :)
Have a wonderful weekend!!
Cheers from Copenhagen ~
Loi

Woodside Park said...

PS - Your silver tea set is gorgeous!!!

prince snow farm said...

Anita your home the light, the shadows, all fabulous and inspiring. I love that you are chasing a dream! Can't wait to hear more! You look lovely sitting on your pretty sofa!

It's me said...

I will miss you darling....what a long time....(((...o no !!!!...i hope i can managed without you....;-))...love you more and more and more...love Ria ...xxx !!

myletterstoemily said...

many blessings on your writing adventure!
i can't wait to read it and am a little
ashamed that i set mine aside.

well, you have encouraged me to push on!
thank you.

ps. you are lovely, by the way. :)

Jade said...

Oh Anita, how beautiful you are and I looooooooove your Outfit.......everything looks so great!!! And how I love your wonderful home........it´s really breathtaking!!! What a joy to visit you in your Castle and to meet such a lovely Princess there! Have a wonderful time with your writing adventure.........

hugs and all my best wishes for you, Jade

French Girl in Seattle said...

Quelle jolie maison, chère Anita! Elle est confortable, élégante et accueillante en même temps. Et les photos d'Anita à la fin du billet: C'était une belle surprise. Je ne m'étonne plus que des commerçants en France te fassent des "petits cadeaux!" :-) Bon été créatif... Moi, je pars en Europe dans 10 jours et ce sera un beau voyage. Bisous. Veronique (French Girl in Seattle)

Palomasea said...

Ever so much more special after speaking with you!!!
Oh, Anita...everything from the music to the MOST beautiful image...YOU...speaks of the light that shines from you, dear one!
Wonderful, poetic, and very special post...
Where you are, there is always wonder and magic...there is always sunshine...
And these photos ARE gorgeous.
Bon Voyage on your new writing journey, dear sister! So exciting!
Love you.

Sandy at You May Be Wandering said...

Beautiful Anita!! I wish you the very, very best on your summer adventure!!! Bonne chance, my friend...I will miss your beautiful posts...and look forward to your return to the blogging world. xoxo

Ricki Treleaven said...

I wish you well on your latest endeavor. I enjoyed the post and the music. And Max in your header makes me smile! (or at least I think it's Max)

You are so cute! I love seeing your pretty home and the photos of you.

Enjoy your summer!

xo,
RJ

Elizabeth Rose Stanton said...

May the muses be with you on your writing adventure, Anita! xo

highheeledlife said...

Dearest Anita may the writing angels be by your side. Can't wait for you to share where this adventure will take you. Gorgeous photos and you look absolutely gorgeous!

Hugs and blessings, C. (HHL)

Lady of the Woods said...

Well Hello Anita! I have to say this may be the most funnest post I've seen yet! Your Home! omg, needs to be in a magazine, and I know its only a matter of time. You are such a magical being! I look forward to seeing you on my end and seeing what I have not! yea! Love the dragon shadow and the bird LOL...you have the best pics, but your own are the most equisite! hugs, lady

koralee said...

I just want to HUG you!

xoxox

Createology said...

Your home is so very lovely Anita. I enjoy your posts and this one is divine with the possibilities of what might be. You look enchanting and beautiful. May you write a masterpiece dear...

Kathy said...

You go and have the adventure of a lifetime. Great post to leave us with. Kathy

Nella Miller said...

Anita, you look so lovely, as does your home...I wish you the very best in your new endeavour.....I bet it is exciting!!
Loved, loved this post....N.xo

Sylvia said...

You are the sister of the sun, bright and beautiful Anita. You have created such a special moment for all of us, sharing your sunny home and especially your sunny smile... Thank you from the bottom of my heart! I also feel like giving you a hug :)
Keep shooting!

Paula said...

Hello again from Texas USA... I hope you have a great adventure over the next couple of months! I wish the time to pass by to be as slow as you need to enjoy every moment :)

Burlap Luxe said...

Going to miss you my sweet beautiful friend but to take time to write is of the utmost importance to you I know this is a dream for you. Keep writing big things are coming your way.
Anita your photos are amazing, you have that dreamy white you were looking for and it is so inspiring.
Love that we could see where the paper wedding dress is staged. The cloche with the mouse has my heart.

Keep me posting in your next step.

Xox
Doré

The Dutchess said...

EXITING...and I loved the pictures ..Lovely smile....xoxo

lamb and blonde said...

What beautiful photos! It is amazing what we can see and capture, when we take a moment to discover loveliness. Best of luck on your new venture!

The enchanted home said...

Love seeing all the beautiful glimpses into your gorgeous home. So pretty!! I agree the suns rays can sprinkle a little magic to all it touches...I too can get a little giddy with my camera:) Enjoy your time off...am sure its going to be a wonderful and hopefully cathartic experience for you Anita! Glad you will still pop in to visit though:)

Barbara said...

Dear Anita, you’ve done it again! I’m in awe of your wonderful blog post. Thank you for including the music – I love the Beatles! Enjoy your time following the sun and come back refreshed and full of creativity (as if you aren't anyway!) xxx

Anonymous said...

awh...
very sweet
you on the sofa
with those fabo
boots...yes my
dear friend look
for what is deep
within...in each
and every space
of each and every
moment! xoxo

francis said...

Lieve Anita
You are always so ful of surprises !
I think it is wonderful you are to do something that will make you happy and learn you more about yourself !
I LOVE the beautiful pictures of yourself !
I am going to print one and put it in e beautiful frame and place it on my desk !
So you will be near !
It must be a challenge for you to NOT write your n
blog ! A bit of a sabbatical!
I am proud of you
How you always are in to new ways !
Wish you well Big hug

Lynne said...

Amazing words and images, dearest Anita.

How precious and stylish are you, sitting so pretty on that amazing white settee!!!

May I say, with your words of love and pursuit of creativity, you have
helped inspire so many to find what has been "there" all along!

Enjoy the journey next!
~Lynne
withLove!

La Petite Gallery said...

GeeeWhiz, I just did a post of my bloggers dropping off. Well, at least I know you will come back. You look fantastic, love your home. While you follow the sun, wear sun screen.
Love ya Kiddo.
yvonne
I'll be waiting.

Unknown said...

Beautifully serene post, Anita...enjoy following the sun...it's sure to follow you right back, lovely lady.
xx

Bilancia Designs said...

I'm happy you're doing what you REALLY want to ....
You have so many talents it's hard for me to imagine you ever being 'restless'... but I KNOW this (writing) is the real deal for you.
I'll never stop believing all these talents will merge one day and a STAR WILL BE BORN. You can't ignore TALENT like this...it's just not discovered every day. You are among the rare, Anita. I've told you this from the first day I met you....
Your photos are beautiful--boy, have you come a long way!!!
Your home is lovely!
One of these days I'll be sitting there with you having a glass of bubbly. :)
Love u. xo


Karena said...

Anita I am very excited for you to follow your dream! I love seeing images of your so ethereal home and you look fabulous by the way.

xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
Giveaway from Splendid Sass!

Unknown said...

Dear Anita,
I did enjoy this summer morning post. And like Loi, I love your silver teapot and coffee pot!
Enjoy your time of creative writing - you know you are always welcome to visit my blog and tarry a while.
Kirk

"Create Beauty" said...

What a joy to be here in your home with you, sitting across from you there on your settee ... to which the 5 year old who saw your photo responded, "She looks PRETTY NEW!"

teee-heeeee!!!!

An entire post with your gorgeous photos, they are so lovely and you have made your home so beautiful and inspiring! Those gray drapes add so much! Your chandelier and candelabras which sparkle so in the light, sigh...............!!!

You and I both grab our cameras to capture the light and shadows....
"stop, drop and roll!"

Last evening we had the front door open and the light was highlighting our entry table, which usually just has the soft light from the skylight.

The scene stopped me in my tracks!

I love those metal chairs in your dining room photo. Are those the ones you painted and moved outside?

Back later in an email to show you the next stage of my fairy house!

Love you dear one, I am excited for you taking the writing class.

~ Violet



June said...

hey there beautiful friend!!!! This post is pure enchantment!!! You have captured the beauty of your home perfectly...and it 'is perfect'!
GORGEOUS photos Anita!

sending hugs from here...

Creations by Marie Antoinette and Edie Marie said...

Bonjour ma belle!

What a beautiful picture of you mon amie! When I think of you I always picture you at your golden harp but now I can add this lovely portrait to my heart's photo book.

I know whatever you do it will be magnificent. I wish you God's blessings for all wonderful and good things to be yours.

Please stop by to see us when you have a chance. I'm trying to add some touches of creative writing and thoughts at times. Your advice is always welcome!

See you in August sweet friend!
Love & hugs, Sherry & Marie

Denise said...

Yes to new adventures no matter the type.They make for a fun,expanding the mind or body and fuller lives.I'm all for adventures.My only requirement is that their safe ; ) no bungy jumping for Me. Love to You-Denise

Down by the sea said...

Anita, You and your home look wonderful. Good luck with your new adventure. I haven't heard that song for years I loved the image of your camera being like the butterfly net!
Sarah x

erin's art and gardens said...

well hello there...so nice to SEE you! you and your camera are becoming very good friends and you are capturing the magic and light that surrounds you so very well, indeed. best of luck on your writing...what you were born to do.
erin
xxoo

Draffin Bears said...

Dear Anita,

How lovely to see all the wonderful photos you have captured around your beautiful home.
Gorgeous ones of you Anita, loved seeing you sitting there on your sofa.
Have fun with your new writing adventure. Enjoy following your dream, dear friend

Sending hugs
Carolyn

Suz said...

I will miss your beautiful posts. Good luck and God bless you in your new adventure. Whenever I hear this song I think of the adventures I've had with my grandchildren. Thank-you for this beautiful post with photos of your lovely home. I will be coming back to visit to get inspiration.

helen tilston said...

Dear Anita

How lovely to see you and your beautiful home.Let me wish you success and joy as you embark on your new project. Helen xx

A Tale of Two Cities said...

Must be exciting to embark on a new adventure of creativity! May the words flow freely and your soul be inspired! Look forward to your return later in the summer....

http://bitsandpieces-sonja.blogspot.com/ said...

And I don't know of anyone who can follow this dream of what is in your head and heart any more than you my friend!

Go for it! I'll be praying that your direction wil be clear, and that the blessings ahead will be rich, for you and for those of us who will be enriched by what is coming!

xo

hi-d said...

Ohhhhh....this is a wonderful post! I LOVE all of the photos. My goodness, your house is gorgeous and you caught some amazing shots!! The crystal candle holder sparkling is beautiful! And it was so great seeing your incredible wedding dress design in the store front window.

AND!!! Seeing you! You're a lovely woman inside and out! Happy that you're taking a break and focusing on your writing, even though we will miss your posts. You are doing exactly what you need to do!

Enjoy, my dear sweet friend!!!

Love to you,
Heidi

Maria said...

~ The sun is calling to you, lovely Anita....and you must follow your heart at this time....I am wishing you all the success that you truly deserve with this new adventure, because like you i know that life is made up of many adventures, my friend! We will be here awaiting your return with anticipation..Anita you look beautiful on the photographs, as warm and kind as your lovely comments always are.....Take time to dream...From my little corner to yours....hugs Maria x oops almost forgot to say, just how lovely is your creative space....HOME! Just beautiful!

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

Hello dearest Anita!!!!!
You look gorgeous!!!!!! I love your hair and your outfit is fabulous!!!!!!!!!!
I will miss your amazing posts but am so happy for you!!!!
I'm glad you'll still be here to talk and see my posts. My 2 year blog anniversary is next week!!!!! Can't believe 2 years have gone by SO quickly!!!!!!
How was your weekend?
It was stormy here ALL weekend and humid!!!!!!!
Riley, my dog, is doing better!!!!! We put him on an arthritis medicine & although he can't stand perfectly- he's able to move around and stand up. If he falls over he gets up by himself. We are so astonished because he has made tremendous progress!!!!!
Hope to talk to you soon!!!!!
I hope you'll still visit my blog!!!!
I'll just comment to you on here.... :-)
Hope your weekend was wonderful!!!!!!
Love & Hugs,
Shannon

Maria said...

Anita, thank you for kind words always....The quote comes into work on the plaques we have in store....from the company East of India.....I have wrote the words on plaques for customers, many times....Use it as you please, lovely You!It reminds me of my dad, like many others he worked to hard and to long and died to young...Sending you blessings, Anita.Love Maria x

Gem said...

How gorgeous are YOU?!?!?!? Stunning Anita!
I loved this post and adored seeing pics of your fabulous home!
What is your writing adventure exactly?
Good luck!!!!
Much love
Gem x x x

Unknown said...

Hi beautiful! New adventures, how exciting! Can't wait to see what you find and what finds you. I look to you for artistic inspiration, for peaceful reading and lovely artful images. You are such a treasure dear one. Best wishes this summer and as always, when you leave, you will be missed!
xoxoNancy
powellbrower.com

Red Rose Alley said...

Anita, I love to see pictures of your home! It's so lovely. The tea set brought back sweet memories for me, as my mom had one very similar to it. It was handed down to my sister. Those chairs around your table are so unique, I love them! It must be so magical for you to see your dress in the shop. The "inside my head" picture made me laugh. And I smiled BIG when I saw YOUR picture. I even showed my husband. He was in the room at the time, and I said, "Oh, look at Anita, isn't she pretty?" and we both looked at the pictures of your house. Me and Nel and Jess have mentioned your name from time to time in front of him, hehehe.

Is that the cutest Header picture or what?

Enjoy your day, dear. I just love this post, and while you're away, I'm going to come visit again and see these wonderful pictures of YOU and your home.

Love,
~Sheri

vicki archer said...

This is wonderful news Anita... although I will miss your way of creating beauty... I love to scroll up and down through your posts and enjoy the way you blend your images and merge your words... such a talented eye you have...
I do hope we will be privy to your writing adventure when the time is right... Have fun... xv

Red Rose Alley said...

That's so interesting that you said you take pictures of your home in the morning, cause Jess said that the early mornings is one of the best times to take pictures. I think late afternoons too.

Love,
~Me

Leslie said...

Anita, Look at you Beautiful:) Gorgeous photographs and love the header.. darling! So excited about your new venture!! I'm sure whatever you do will be a success .. go for it!
Sorry I'm late stopping by. It's been a crazy month and I still have house guests through the end of the week. I'm exhausted .. a little partied out.
Enjoy your day!

xxleslie

Vintage Jane said...

Enjoy your writing adventure. Beautiful pics especially of beautiful you ... M x

renae said...

Lovely departure post, Anita. Lovely.

It will be hard to not have new posts but I'll know all the while that you will be learning a new vista in your repertoire of talents.

Best to you, my friend. Glad to know we have a dear friendship that will continue beyond Blogville.♥

Thank you for your fun words regarding my/our wedding anniversary. We had a very nice time. We always do.

Martina said...

Dearest Anita, i'm back and just want to say hello! Today i should be working but just can't concentrate - too much sunshine here ;) Your pix are super lovely, you have become such a good photographer! And it's maybe wise to take a long blogbreak - i think i ought to do the same, because i just don't find the time to paint otherwise ... LetÄs see! Let's be in touch a little still, am sending you much LOVE from germany! xox

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Dearest friend,
Oh my goodness! What a beautiful post Anita.. You have captured every magical light in your home..
You look so lovely, your smile just warms my heart..
I am so excited for your writing adventure.. I know you have been looking forward to this, and I am sure it will open endless possibilities for you.

It was so good to hear your sweet voice today... Thank you so much for your friendship.
bisous!
Penny

therelishedroost said...

That sounds wonderful, you are a great writer so I am sure this challenge will be a walk in the park for you!!
Pop in and say "hi!" Let us know how you are making out!!
xo Karolyn

Madelief said...

Dear Anita,

You sound so happy and exciting! Looking forward to see and READ more about your adventure :-).

Your blogpost always have the ability to lift my spirits. Just wanted you to know!!!!

Have a happy week and good luck with your challenge.

Madelief x

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

You are too kind! Thank you dearest for coming over and leaving such a sweet note.. Not my best work, that is for sure, but I thank you so much!
p.s. Did I tell you how much I LOVE your header?
bisous!

jerilanders said...

What a doll you are in your jeans and boots and romantic white blouse. You should never grow your hair out. Most ladies can't carry that off, but on you it is perfect! May your writing adventures take you to the places you want to go, inside your head.

Donna Heber said...

Wishing you all the best on your new adventure! Your home is so beautiful.

Pura Vida said...

I loved all your photos of light and shadow, but I loved the photos of you the best! You are so beautiful! Inside and Out.

It takes the shadows to bring forth the light...van gogh

Anonymous said...

This could very well be my favorite post at CCC. Too difficult to choose among so many beautiful ones, but I LOVE seeing your gorgeous face, which reflects even more light than any of the other spectacular images you've shared with us in this post.

This is perfect, Anita. I love that you are opening up your home to us. It has a very European feel to it, simply lovely. And the jeans and boots are GENIUS, kind of connects Europe with America. :) I love it.

I have a similar soup tureen sitting on my kitchen table. It belonged to my mother. It is actually the very same one I used to serve your salmon-less salmon stew... teehee ...which was definitely worthy of such a server. :)

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
Let the adventure begin!
xoxo's


Barbara said...

Anita dear...
How exciting! I am thrilled you're going on a writing adventure. And I can't wait to hear/read everything!
Your photos are a delight, your home is exquisite, as are you, which I've always known. Love, love the photos of you in your skinny jeans and cute earrings!
Bon voyage!

hi-d said...

Anita,

I love how you make your home so beautiful! Your home really is you...your heart and soul...and I love seeing these photos.

Your heart is so sweet and tender...your comment on my Father's Day post was touching. I hope they were happy tears... :)

Have a wonderful week. And I know you are busy with writing, so PLEASE don't feel like you have to respond. I TOTALLY understand. You are a busy gal.

Love you!
Heidi

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Dear Anita,
Now that is a great idea.. I will look for that product.
Thank you for your visit
bisous!

Mr Paul said...

Gorgeous Anita, I know you are going to have the most amazing time on your course. It has been so nice to peek around your lovely home and to see your wonderful, magical creations. Have lots of fun, look forward to hearing all about it on your return. Paul X

Willow said...

Bravo to you Anita for such an endearingly open and lovely share of your beautiful home.
Your photography truly captured a bit of your amazing charm and essence.
So much fun to see you sitting pretty with the smile of the beautiful enchanting pixie of wonderment.~ that you are !

Privet and Holly said...

Beautifully said, and
I love all of your photos,
sweet friend!

I am a bit envious and
will surely follow in your
footsteps when the time
seems "right" for me to
do so.

I hope you are having fun.

Happy Summer!!!

xo Suzanne

renae said...

hmmm, Anita, I don't see that your side bar is gone. I mean all of the blogs you have listed are there right now as I am replying. Did you fix it? Looks fine to me.

Thanks for the extra effort to find me, tho.

How was your first class? I'm anxious to know how it went for you.

Lala said...

beautiful pictures!
Delightful Ideas
Bag Giveaway

Kelly said...

Hello Adorable Anita, I just came by today as I just returned from a couple of days away to visit my friend the ocean.
I wish I could visit with you as well, for you capture loveliness all around you and within! Thank you for sharing and I wish for you LOVE, DREAMS, SMILES and ADVENTURES GALORE!!! <3

Ivy and Elephants said...

I'm so happy for you dear, Anita. Follow your heart and chase the wind, ... that's how we got windmills, and kites. May the wind always be at your back!
Hugs,
Patti

Elizabeth@ Pine Cones and Acorns said...

My dear friend, it is so nice to follow along with you as you begin your day with a cup of tea.

I always love seeing your beautiful creations and where you create. It is serene and peaceful and a wonderful place for you to let your creative juices flow.

I know that you are going to enjoy every second of your class as well as all of your writing. I am looking forward to seeing what comes out!

Take care, I will miss you. xoxox Elizabeth

I hope you will still have time for email.

Anonymous said...

c'est marrant comment nous fréquentons les mêmes cercles de blogs!
la photo est adorable de vous!
je vous souhaite un merveilleux été rempli d'inspiration!
Cordialement,

Valérie (une autre prof de français !)

Deana Sidney said...

Good for you to follow your dreams and find new adventures. Too often we get trapped like bugs in the resin of our day to day only to be trapped and held.
Best to take the leap to a distant branch and see a new vista.
Have a great summer!

Stacey said...

Oh sweet friend!
I'm finally making it here and to such a wondrous post! I'm so very excited for you as you embark on following your heart's desires! I also chase the light with a camera around my house and outside after my morning coffee or coffee in hand! There's something magical about that early morning light. You look radiant too and oh so beautiful! Bisous!

Martina said...

Dearest Anita, it's so good to see you on the last picture of your post while typing the comment! And such cute pictures - you look splendid dear one - just like the fairy of the magic cottage! And love to see your amazing house again. Thanks for coming on the little walk with me - seeing you always makes me smile! Let's enjoy a sunny evening - and the garden here and there! xox

Anne said...

Anita, you beauty! I am excited for you as you follow an intriguing new path... it will certainly lead you to something wonderful!

You and your home are perfectly lovely.

renae said...

Most Thrifty-fashion bloggers have those mannequins and now I do, too. One of my mutual followers sells tremendous dresses on eBay. My gracious you should see them.

I will still be doing my outfits as usual. The mannequin posts will be only on Thursday (because it sounds good with "Thrifty") but NOT every Thursday. Only when I have an accumulation of my "Finds". Other gals do theirs on Friday, (and term it "Friday's Finds" but nah I picked Thursday. Can't be doing EVERYTHING they do when they do it. hahahahaha

Glad your Blogger feeds are working right now.

Take care dear one. (hug)

Rhissanna said...

What a gorgeously serene work of art your home is, Anita and how inspiring to us all!

I look forward to your visit. The kettle is on, of course, and there'll be scones and strawberry preserves and clotted cream. We'll eat them in the steampunk study, amongst the skulls and the saints and the mummified fairies.

Oh! I finished little Elodie, the Princess Milkmaid. She'd been bought before the paint was dry! I'll have to make another.

Valerie@chateaualamode.typepad.com said...

So excited for you as you follow the sun! Enjoy your journey :)

Michele said...

You are full of beauty Anita and love your post, always always touching to me. I feel so much that I can relate to you. Blessings to you as you follow your sunny path in life.

Michele
Pearl 13.1

A Magical Whimsy said...

Anita...you are so charming and radiant! May you follow the sun in your writing adventure, and may you not only have great success, but may it be a richly rewarding experience for you.
I did go to the movies and watch 'Where the Wild Things Are'...I went with my middle sister, Nancy, and we diagnosed the movie afterward...thinking that it was like a rite of passage for a young man into puberty, the frustration of growing up...not being able to be Peter Pan for the rest of his life...Ah! But there is a catch to that ending, as we do become who we are, only to glimpse Wonderland over our shoulder...it is still there to keep our childhood innocence in tact.

Have a blessed experience!
Teresa
http://amagicalwhimsy.blogspot.com/

Red Rose Alley said...

I just wanted to come and see your pretty face this Friday morning. I am lovin' that outfit you are wearing! I miss wearing dangling earrings. One of my ears closed up, so I can't wear earrings any more. I must go and pierce them again.

Have a happy Friday, dear one.

Love,
~Sheri

Anonymous said...

Greetings...and Happy Summer
my friend...be sure to check
out Victoria Magazine...its
all about France!!!

isn't that pixie just
too pretty and sweet...
i just had to post her
after i discovered her
and those sheets and
tent...i want that moment!!!

xoxo

Unknown said...

Hello lovely Anita,
I'm stopping back by your gorgeous blog and am enthralled with this post once again. Also wanted to let you know that I'm very interested in the Pinterest idea and would love join. Let me know what type of photo you would like. You are always so creative. By the way, I am a School Psychologist. As of today-I'm officially off for the summer. Bliss!
Have a perfect weekend!
xx, Heather @Stylemindchic

Elaine said...

Oh how wonderful for you. Spending your Summer days on a wonderful journey.

I wish you well.

Draffin Bears said...

Hope you have a happy weekend, dear Anita and sending hugs your way.

Carolyn

Karena said...

I had to come visit again Anita this post is so very poignant plus I miss you already!

xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
Giveaway by NOVICA

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

Hi Anita from Pearl...oh yes those carrots and their shape....another beauty from nature! I think a carrot cake with these beauties will be just fine....now I think I might have to bake one some time! Hope your weekend is warm....we are quite cold here....Cheers to you Sweet Friend, this time with a warming red wine....Dzintra xo

La Petite Gallery said...

Anita, Thanks for comment on Vampires. You look adorable on the sofa, I love your taste.
You are some classy Lady.
Big hug yvonne

Champagne Macarons said...

Bonjour mon ami! I hope all is well with you and I cannot wait to hear of your new adventure.
xoxo, B

Palomasea said...

Good Morning beautiful one!
Thinking about you...I thought I would drop by for a virtual visit to "see you"!!! MISS YOU!!!
I hope there is light in your corner of the world now...
BISOUS.

hi-d said...

Hello my friend!

I hope you had a good week. And maybe got some writing done?

M is doing much better since your comment about the TV. Your comment was funny...about your parents and you breaking things. Well, funny now, but I'm sure at the time, it wasn't funny at all to you or your bee-hind. haha...

Hope you have a great rest of the weekend!
Heidi

Deborah said...

Well hello gorgeous!!!!!
Love your dreamy home Anita! And I too love caturing the light, the shadows, the beauty.
Have a wonderful adventure creative gal!
I'm off to the cottage for the better part of the week.
Love & hugs to you!!!

All my heart,
Deborah xoxoxooxoxox

Leslie Harris said...

Anita these are simply gorgeous photos. And I SO relate to that sense of wonder when you look through the camera in search of those beautiful lights and shadows. Searching for what is not easily seen. I'm so excited for you and I wish you well on your writing project, although I will miss your inspiring posts.
Leslie aka Gwen Moss
P.S. you look beautiful in your pictures.

Personally selected products said...

You know..... i will miss you Anita!!
have a good summer!
Luisa

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

Hi Anita!!!!!
How was your weekend?
It's SO hot & humid here now!!!!!
We had a few storms over the weekend as well....
My blog is officially 2 years old- I can hardly believe it!!!!
I am so grateful to have met such kind, amazing people like you!!!!!
Hope all is great!!!!!
Luv & Hugs,
Shannon

Martina said...

Hello my dear, how are you? Is your writing making progress? Do you enjoy summer? It's colder again here, but i planted colorful pots of flowers and enjoy lookung at them! Cheers to a happy evening! xx

♥ Mary Janes TEAROOM said...

Gorgeous post Anita and beautiful photographs! It's wonderful to hear that you're following your dream and I know you'll definitely create some magic along the way...Wishing you a fabulous and creative time....enjoy the journey!
Susan x

renae said...

Anita, hahahahaha, Anita, you are so fun! You may copy any of those pics to Pinterest. I had a pin it button on my site but it disappeared and I keep forgetting to get it back there.

Thanks for noticing my newest banner. I am VERY, ULTRA VERY pleased with it. I didn't like the general one I had up since last month of so. I did a revamp and VOILA! Thank you.

renae said...

Oh put more, put more. I have a bunch of me on a board on my Pinterest but only the one in the turquoise top with purple scarf has been pinned somewhere. I think that's right. You are so funnnny and a bit hyper, I might add, hahahhaha but I love you and I love your ENTHUSIASM!!!

Sylvia said...

My beautiful fiend,
You SO get it, you always do - simplicity is the equated with ENOUGH - and I am always thankful for your thoughtful, kind and poetic words! Thank goodness for the deep, reassuring knowledge that there is a kindred spirit out there! Blessings for a wonderful summer! Happy for you being following your dreams, sweet Anita!

Mariette VandenMunckhof-Vedder said...

Dearest Anita,
At Draffin Bear's blog I read your comment about not yet knowing how to save your Google Reader. You might have missed my tutorial on it, it is real easy for transferring them all to Bloglovin' the Swedish reader. Just follow this link: http://networkedblogs.com/MobwY
Good luck!
Mariette
gplus.to/MariettesBacktoBasics

Michelle May-The Raspberry Rabbits said...

Oh dearest friend. Wishing you a most wonderful and fun adventure. I saved one of the beautiful photos of you with your bright smile. I shall look at it all the time and be happy knowing you are my friend.
Hugs!

Palomasea said...

Precious one!!! What a joy to see beautiful you here....can't wait till we share our adventures!!
A bientot, chere amie!
Big hugs.

Anonymous said...

I am always excited when people follow new passions and wish you nothing but success. And oh my, what a beautiful home you have.

renae said...

My two biggest nightmare hair stylist was 1) on drugs for horrid back pain. She FRIED my hair. three year later got this gal and 2) was going off of meds for bipolar so she could get prego. She cut my hair awfully and also FRIED my hair. I swore to never go to the latter AGAIN. and ...She had the audacity to call me a month later and inform me she had decided to never do hair any further. Why didn't she say that four weeks prior to ruining my hair? I look like the Dutch Boy Paint logo!!!!!! (stop laughing)hahahahaha. Time+Crisis=Humor!

Rustic Vintage Country said...

Beautiful in every sense! Suzy x

Linda @ Life and Linda said...

Anita, you are such a dear. I am so happy you are following your dreams. You have a gorgeous home and your soul is so very special. Thank you for your lovely visit. I haven't be up to visiting any blogs until today. Hugs, Linda

La Petite Gallery said...

Hi again Anita, Thanks for comment. We have lots of excursion boat trips here. Never been to Minnesota. My dream on the bucket list is to go to the Grand Hotel at Mackinac Island, did you ever see movie "Somewhere in Time"? One of my favorite's. The nex spot is upstate N.Y. The Mountain House, Mon honk It's New Paltz N.Y.
It's More Rain here today.
Love yvonne

Anonymous said...

Thank you for stopping by to visit this morning, lovely friend. I am writing you via email but could not resist stopping by too.

"thought to be insane" ...Yep, that's me, dancing to the music unheard by some. :)
xoxo's

francis said...

Thank you for visiting me .
You always have the right words .
Words that show you understand .
Yes I am in so much more pain and that takes a lot of energy .
But I will always be here and visit you no matter what .
I am working on goodbye-presents for my colleagues.
I am at home now for two-and-a-half-year now but Officially I am no longer a colleague since may 2013 .
The end of the schoolyear will be half of july
and so I am making little books with a beautiful story from my favorite writer Toon Tellegen .
The little book will be in a small box .
The story is called
A little box with mornings and evenings .
the stories are about animals and this one is about an ant and a squirrel and how the squirrel tells the ant he keeps special occasions in a little golden box .
birthdays .... the music the cake the dancing the presents .....
how he sometimes opens the box and taste the cake and hear the music ...
It's about keeping memories ....
Have a happy weekend my dear

The Quintessential Magpie said...

New adventures are exciting!!!

I hope yours is a marvelous journey!

xo,

Sheila

Vintage Home said...

OH anita...I can't possibly believe you wont be here that long! Have a great time seeing ...and the wonderful adventure it will be!

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

Dearest Anita....how kind of you to say that you love my world....sometimes I do wonder if anyone is interested in my world....My eldest daughter once said to me just write what you want to Mum and I have taken her advice! So sweet friend....Welcome to my World....I truly appreciate each and every visit that you do make to visit.....Here's cheers to a fabulous weekend...Much Love to you, Dzintra xo

Paula said...

Anita I am so excited to follow you on your new life journey. Good luck and God bless.

Besitos,
Paula

Woodside Park said...

Hi, Anita - Just checking in to say hi and many thanks!!! Hope you are enjoying your class. I will look for you on Bloglovin. Have a wonderful 4th!!
x Loi

Tammie Lee said...

hello beautiful woman
so grand to see your smiling face
your home is so very beautiful and gorgeous too! i love light and shadows, that is all i photograph ;-)

wishing you a wonderful writing adventure!

koralee said...

Hi sweet friend...just popped over to let you know I am thinking of you today as you worked magic in that garden of yours! The sun was out in all it's glory today...enjoyed a lovely day with my girls...thank you for your concern...we are doing well but nothing has changed. xoxox Have a blessed Sunday.

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Thank you dear friend....Your visits and encouraging words lift my heart.
Enjoy your evening
bisous!

Rhissanna said...

Oh, but you're missed! I hope your adventures are exciting and fulfilling!

La Petite Gallery said...

Anita, I did the Coast of Calif.
from San Francisco to L.A.,
never saw Big Sur and all the places you went. Love the photo's of you.
You look in great shape. yvonne

Kirsten Steen said...

What beautiful shots, Anita! And how much fun to find them all in your own home. I LOVE that kaleidoscope shot behind the crystal! Have so much fun on your journey! We'll be here when you return. xoxo

francis said...

1816 followers
133 comments
Oh Anita
How do you do all that !
I have been in a dark place
for a while and now I am
on my way to the light again
nothing dramatic
more like day-and-night
ebb and flow
but better .
I am now into the part between them
and learning so much about all that is in between .
It is like
going from country to country by plane and you are there , going on
from place to place
And than one day you travel by car
and look at the surroundings because now you have the time ...
and you see how the landscape slowly changes and how beautiful that is .
You see so different and in a whole new way ....
So I am doing well
always
even when I tell about the dark
It's because things are working out
for so much more better
I am so greatful ......
I love you my precious SISTER !

Teacup Mosaics said...

Dearest Anita,
I look forward to the magic you will weave for us while you are "chasing". Your view of the world only enriches ours. Happy Summer! Kelley

Marfi-topia said...

Looking forward to your new adventures!
Thank you for stopping by and being so sweet and understanding.
Have a beautiful day:)

ImagiMeri said...

All I can say is wow! Your living space is divine!

Hugs,
Meri

La Petite Gallery said...

Oh Anita,
Listen to this, my Yard Man
had a heat stroke, hasn't been here for 2 weeks. Now because of this heat, the Ticks are wild, he has
lime sickness. I am fighting the Japanese beetles again this month.
Renee and I are also going to start
the mower at 5AM and just cut the
tallest of the grass in a low spot.
If it rains that spot is always to wet. Renee and I are so much alike, we are both 5AM gals..I am so happy she is here. If you were here, we could all have coffee at 5AM.
love yvonne stay COOL

Wsprsweetly Of Cottages said...

This was lovely. Is anyone home?
I don't know you so am wondering where YOU are.
In one? In all? In none?

So interesting..but left with more questions than answers..but that's just me. :)

Anne Delisle (Famille Gerdel) said...

Coucou Anita,

Mon amie Marielle a fait un joli clin d'œil à ton propos. Elle a bien raison, ton blogue est sublime.

Un plaisir que de le découvrir, à mon tour.

J'y reviendrai.

Anne
Ville de Québec (Canada)