After my blog, “Seeing Blue”, in April, several of you sent emails asking me to show the new sofa when it arrived. Here it is…”Madeline”, the name the manufacturer has given it. The lighting in the north facing living room is not great for photos but the fabric on the sofa is a denim-blue velvet which picks up the blue in the carpet spot on.
All dressed up…my husband wonders where he’s supposed to sit, let alone stretch out!!! Isn’t that what a bed is for?
On one of those recent weekends when Spring felt more like Winter, I decided to restyle the bookcase. This was not a quick turnaround. I knew I’d have to “edit” some books (which does not come easy for me, but was necessary) if I wanted to add some “blue” accents and decor pieces to break up solid shelves of books.
The before…
And after…
The first section, on the left, has some of my favourite fiction books including those written by Jane Austin, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Edith Wharton. I’ve framed several quotes that I particularly love.
The middle section is mostly biographies and autobiographies of fashion icons and politicians.
The top shelf has a framed sketch of the door to Chanel’s 31 Rue Cambon boutique. There’s a sketch of Jackie Kennedy and Karl Lagerfeld along side books about them, and my favourite Hemingway quote sits atop his books.
The third section is dedicated to Paris. On the top shelf I’ve added some small Eiffel Towers I collected on early trips to Paris, and a framed photo of Cafe de Flore, because of some wonderful memories made there. The middle shelf has a small framed print titled, “Artist Apartment”, and the bottom has a framed photo of the Eiffel Tower, several John Derian Paris paper weights, and a framed quote about Paris.
This is what happens when I’m bored. Some of you may find this frivolous and/or silly but shouldn’t are homes be a reflection of who we are and the “things” we treasure?
Happily, I’m no longer bored. I think it’s safe to say that Spring has finally arrived, although it’s not unheard of to see snow on the long weekend in May. Garden season is full on with yard clean up and frequent trips to the garden centres. This is a bit risky I know, but I’ve already planted most of my containers. I’m encouraged to see that most, if not all, the perennials have come through winter and are greening up nicely. The tulips are blooming and the lilacs are about to burst. The peonies are well on the way and even the roses are starting to leaf out.
How glorious it is to feel the sun on your skin, dirt on our fingers, and those stiff and sore muscles that have slacked off all winter. I hope you are outdoors too.
Enjoy, xox Judy❤️
Oh Judy – you have my absolute dream sofa! It is beautiful as is your whole house! Happy gardening!
Thank you Cathy, I’ve missed you at the garden centre, but no doubt, I’ll be back and hopefully will see you. xox Judy❤️
Another glorious morning and I get to read your blog and see what you’ve been up to my dear… love the new sofa, perfectly named🙌
great job on the bookshelf you are an inspiration! I cannot wait to see the magic you’ve created in your garden this year🌷🌸🌼
Thank you Catherine, these bright, sunny days really are a gift. Your roof top garden must be coming back to life and the birds will be happy to spend time in the wonderful haven you’ve created for them. xox Judy❤️
Madeline is beautiful! I really like the bench style seat and back cushions. Your Bibliotheque is styled so well with the mix of books, art and personal treasures. Love it! Enjoy the precious hours we have outside in the yard. 💐
Thank you Karen, I, too, like the bench seat on this sofa. It is down-filled and will have to be flipped occasionally which I don’t mind. I don’t lay down on the sofa but my husband has given the thumbs up for comfort. I’m sure you’ve been out in your garden too soaking up vitamin D.
Enjoy xox Judy❤️
Hi Judy, thank you so much for showing us “Madeline” ….she looks so cozy and comfortable but so beautiful and elegant at the same time. The colour is perfect and I love the bench style! I also love what you’ve done with your bookcase and how you’ve showcased your favourite items. I agree that our homes should be a reflection of our interests and loves, not to mention what makes us “feel at home”. I can’t think of a lovelier place to settle down after a day in the garden. Hugs, Karen xo🥰
Thank you Karen, Madeline has made herself right at home here! It’s interesting how quickly the “eye” adjusts to a new look. On a day like today, curling up with a good book is just what my tired bones will appreciate, however, I will probably spend my time worrying about whether my containers will succumb to frost!!! xox Judy❤️
Enjoy your “down” time with a cozy blanket and a good book on your beautiful new sofa, Judy, and I’ll keep my fingers crossed for all of our new plants…gardening in Alberta🤞😫! Hugs, Karen xo❤️
Hi again Karen, It did freeze here…grrrrr, however, I don’t think it did any damage to the container plantings. xox Judy❤️ Hopefully everything is good at your house too.