This week is crazy.
CRAZY.
So I did what I always do when the crazy starts
to set in....
I staged a photo shoot!
Not re-inventing the wheel here, decorating-wise.
I just have a plethora of vintage suitcases,
and I knew I wanted to use a few in the entry hallway as a table of sorts.
I'll probably add one or two more when I find just the right ones.
I just have a plethora of vintage suitcases,
and I knew I wanted to use a few in the entry hallway as a table of sorts.
I'll probably add one or two more when I find just the right ones.
The farmhouse is still very much a work-in-progress.
Next to nothing hung on the walls,
and still living out of boxes.
If anyone with any extra free time wants to volunteer
to come on down and help me get the place finished up,
then I have an extra bedroom with your name on it. Seriously.
I picked up the light colored top suitcase from
Peg of French Vanilla at City Wide Garage Sale this past weekend,
and inadvertently made off with two of her light fixtures tucked inside!
and inadvertently made off with two of her light fixtures tucked inside!
We have plans to hook up this Friday
so that I can return my stolen loot.
Darn, I almost got away with it!
Darn, I almost got away with it!
In addition to doing in-house photo shoots,
I'm also struggling to get an article written.
Struggling would actually be an understatement.
I'm working on a piece for a publication
which has to remain nameless for now,
and the words simply will not come.
The irony in all of this is that way back in the day,
I was working towards getting a degree in journalism.
Writing was my thing, and it was the one thing I believed I
was consistently good at.
But since shifting my artistic focus towards photography,
I feel like my writing ability has gone pffffft.
It's incredibly frustrating, especially when one is working
under the constraints of a deadline.
Please wish me well!!!
Oh, and TODAY marks my second anniversary of blogging!
Happy Blogiversary to Me!
Have a lovely evening!
I would love to help! Wish I were closer. I like your suitcases and I have so many, I would be willing to part with some. I did antique shows for years and the abundance of stuff in the shed and basement is pretty handy for re-dos. I need to check out this book and get me a copy. I am a color girl but I can appreciate beauty in any color!
ReplyDeleteSo funny, with the title you chose I thought you were going to write about men who don't want anything remotely feminine when it comes to decorating, and how to come to overcome the issue.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to come help you get your sweet home set up, but I'm afraid I would take so much time admiring each piece I pulled out that you would give me the pink slip before lunch.
As for your writing, baby just sleep on it....at least that's when I do my best creating, thinking, planning, organizing--those hours before I finally fall asleep, and the time just before I wake up. It will come to you, like it always does when you set your mind to it.
WOW! Congrats and I can't wait to read your feature article! That is great news! Andrea @ townandprairie
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine you having trouble with words... it sure doesn't show in your blog! Love those sweet suitcases and clocks, gorgeous! Can't wait to read your article, it will be perfect! Have a blessed evening dear Anne, wish we didn't live SO far apart! HUGS!
ReplyDeleteHi Anne,
ReplyDeleteI haven't been blogging for awhile, but got the urge to pop in and saw your dilema with writing your article. One thing that works for me...pretend you're telling your best friend about the article's subject matter, like you were sitting in the kitchen with a cup of coffee. Write down whatever comes to mind. Set it aside for a little while, then go back and read what you wrote. You'd be suprised at the little ideas and phrases you can build off of.
Hope it helps and good luck,
Susan
I can't wait to see what publication your article is for. If you ever write it :) Just kidding. I'm sure you'll find your inner writer again. Maybe just a night with nothing to do but sitting and relaxing and not worrying about the house or the dogs will get the juices flowing.
ReplyDeleteI majored in English and wanted to be a writer as well. Then I went to law school and that was the end of that! I know what it's like not to be able to find the words. But I also know that this, too, shall pass and they WILL come! Hang in there.
ReplyDeletexoxo
Kathleen
Anne ~ I just love your vintage suitcases all stacked up with your old clocks and most amazing magazines!
ReplyDeleteYour pictures are always so very beautiful!
It sounds like you had a fun time in Austin for the garage sale!!
xoxo
Lori
Girl if I didn't have so much going on right now I would be down there in a heart beat! I would love to help you and you could show my around Fredricksburg! Just got the rest of my floor finished today. Now it's on to baseboard and put my kitchen back together! I really, really, really got to get busy on my Texas load! It will get done I'm sure of it! Good luck with the decorating!
ReplyDeletetot
Hi sweet girl!!!! Ohmygoodness...I LOVE the suitcases in the entryway!!!! You could find the perfect table to place over top.....but don't worry, that comes with time. I truly think that is the joy, don't you? Finding these treasures, one by one and adding them to each other! Don't rush yourself either, because finding the perfect fit is the BEST!!! And don't worry about the words coming to you either ~ I always scribble in a pad when I have to write an article, just to get the ideas flowing. Then go to the computer and it really WILL flow! It probably won't even resemble what you wrote but just having that jumping off point is wonderful. Plus, you and I both know, you HAVE to be in the mood, right??? I love the new mag....I've got to check it out!!! Sending you hugs and love, Dawn
ReplyDeleteI just finished writing an article tonight. It helps me to surround myself with what I'm writing about for inspiration. I write a draft and then typically come back to it the next 2-3 nights and edit. If I have too much going on around me, it can be a real distraction. Sometimes late at night with a little glass of red in hand, seems to be the best time to get started! Best of luck. You are a terrific writer. I can't wait to hear more.
ReplyDeleteGet a move on girl, those editors don't like to be kept waiting! ;-)
ReplyDeleteI love your vintage suitcases, I have one from my mother that I need to find a place for. And what a lovely magazine!
Kat :)
I love the suitcases and the vintage clocks on top..You sure do have an eye for decorating with vintage items..I love it..
ReplyDeleteJanet
i was just thinking i'd love some vintage suitcases for my spare bedroom. it would make a pretty end table. good luck finding any treasures like that around here. i certainly hope someday i know where all the good stuff is.
ReplyDeleteHi Anne,
ReplyDeleteYou can do it... just let yourself breathe! And congratulations to you for being honored with such a great project.
I've already ordered my copy of Jo-Anne's beautiful magazine but I'm giving a signed copy away on my blog so if you get a chance, send people over.
Okay... remember, YOU can do it, talented one!
xoxo
I have serious suitcase envy now!
ReplyDeleteLove,
LuLu~*xoxo
It goes without saying that I'd be there if it were possible, and these have been two great years of having you as my dear friend,
ReplyDeletelove ya, D
Love the suitcases! They look perfect exactly where they are. I write an article for one of our little Old Towne Orange newspapers here where my store is. I know for me, I have to write it in "my head" first! Sounds corny, but I just toss and toss around ideas till something fits and I'm ready to put it on paper. I'm so happy your photography and writing are coming together for you!
ReplyDeleteTake care, Sue
I love them suitcases, they look really great all stacked together!! how have you been? I cannot wait to get that magazine !!! Beautiful take care
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely stack of vintage suitcases sitting in your entryway Anne. Love the clocks sitting atop. Good thing they are close to the door because when I come to stay I can sneak them out quite easily! LOL!
ReplyDeleteSeems as though when you know you have to write something it takes longer for the words to come, but they will.
Happy Blog Anniversary too.
hugs
sissie
Hi Anne!
ReplyDeleteOh boy I wish I lived closer cause I'd sure have a blast helping you...imagine the possibilities for that sweet little farm house!!! I'm sure the words will come to you when you're not even trying to think about it...good luck! AND
HAPPY 2nd BLOGIVERSARY!!!!!
I'm so glad I found you.
Maura :)
Happy Blogiversary!! And I love the suitcases! :)
ReplyDeleteHi Anne, I tried to visit you the other night, but I was having problems keaving comments and couldn't get my blog post to take either. Frustration. Enough of that, I really like the suitcases. The few that I have are filled with old photos that we found when we emptied my mother-in-law's apartment. I enjoy reading your blog and will keep my fingers crossed on your article. I hope the doctor appointment went well. I have one this next week. I still wish my pictures looked like yours. If you like surprise giveaways, I am having one to celebrate my 70th birthday. Have a great day. Your Missouri Friend.
ReplyDeletehooray for you!!!! have a wonderful blogaversary!!!!
ReplyDeletethe words will come..be patient. they will come! Oh and..Happy Blogaversary!
ReplyDeleteHappy Second Anniversary Anne!!! :)
ReplyDeletexo~
Karen
Anne, Happy second Anniversary, Hope your day was a good one, Love those old suitcases too
ReplyDeleteHappy Blogaversary!!! I love the old suitcases! What a clever use for them and makes such a statement! Good luck on your writing piece. I used to be a decent writer and I swear teaching first and second graders just absolutely messed up my writing! I feel like I write like a second grader now! It will come to you when you least expect it! Sending prayers your way!!!
ReplyDeleteLOVE the old suitcases, Anne! And that is funny that you "stole" the light fixtures =).
ReplyDeleteHappy Blogaversary and good luck with writing!
I am sure the words will come just at the last minute.
ReplyDeleteYou know the best just comes naturally
I wish you luck
and this magazine is delicious
Thanks for sharing it
Amy
Happy Anniversary! No advice on the writing-I was a history major and just wrote alot of bologna-um I mean history! Good luck and I'm sure I'll be hitting the bookstore when your article comes out.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Jody
P.S. Major suitcase addiction here-hubby even buys them when he is traveling and fills them with goodies he found!
Your photos are always so inspirational!
ReplyDeleteLove those old suitcases Anne - they are perfect in your hallway. Your home is going to be so pretty.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the blog anniversary.
have a beautiful day
xo Tina
Happy Anniversary.
ReplyDeleteHope the writer's block clears very soon.
Love the clocks on the suitcases.
Wonderful pics. Thank you. xx
Happy Blogaversary to you!!
ReplyDeleteWhen the going gets tough here I usually clean and re-arrange. Guess I should start capturing my new vignettes when I do that!!
Can't wait to get Jo-Anne's new edition...I blogged about how I took out her first one to help get me through this cold!
Good Morning, Anne,
ReplyDeleteOh, how I would love to visit you and help. Today is my last day at home...then it is back to school
Happy blog anniversary. Make a thoughtful Thursday. ~Natalie
Good Morning, Anne,
ReplyDeleteOh, how I would love to visit you and help. Today is my last day at home...then it is back to school
Happy blog anniversary. Make a thoughtful Thursday. ~Natalie
Anne, Happy Blogversary!!! My thoughts are with you on you writing, just breathe relax and remember why you wanted to do it and loved it in the first place, you can write and photgraph too! I know you will do wonderful with the Article/piece. I do wish I did not see yet another beautiful magazine to buy.......but I am off to purchase. Dang...can't help it. Looks like one not to be missed.
ReplyDeleteSherry
Too far away to help, unfortunately! Congratulations on your second anniversary of blogging. The writing will come back to you. It did for me - but It is sort of like working an unused muscle - slow going at first.
ReplyDeleteThe suitcases look like they were made for your entryway.
xo
Claudia
Happy blogiversary, Anne!! LOVE the suitcases!
ReplyDeleteXOXO,
Jo
Anne you worry too much! You are a fabulous writer. I know, I read your blog. Your words and pictures are captivating. The words for your publication will come and you will meet your deadline. Have faith in yourself. PS. Thanks for the tip on Jo-Anne Coletti's new mag. I love her work. She is one of my fav's.
ReplyDeleteOhhhh...I know what that's like to shift your creative focus. After waaaaay too many years in music and theatre I shifted my focus to interior decorating. Now, well let's just say my singing has the dog cowering in the corner! LOL! Best of luck with your article. Oh and, I'd be there in a heartbeat to help you decorate! Love your house :-D
ReplyDeleteHappy Anniversary! When I get writer's block, I wait until early morning, make a hot pot of coffee, and go sit outside to write. Something about everything being "new" helps!
ReplyDeleteHey, sit down with a glass of your favorite stress relieving drink, and relax. The words will come to you.
ReplyDeleteGood luck, friend!
Leslie
Hello :-)
ReplyDeleteI came over from French Country Cottage.
I just wanted to ask you where you got your lovely suitcases? I'd love to get my hands on some similar!
Lovely blog :-)
Emily
emilysummers-designer.blogspot.com
wow you are a busy gal!! ;) Happy 2 year bloggiversary!! xoxo Rachel
ReplyDeleteFrench Farmhouse 425
HAPPY 2nd BLOGOVERSARY!!! What a milestone. :) you need to have some hoopla goin' on and take your mind off your deadline, then something will come to you! My 2nd will be early February.
ReplyDeleteI would LOVE, LURRVVE to come down there and help you out {that way I can say I've been to TX, I can check out all the neat places your peruse, I'd get to meet you and we'd get to know each other better...I would give you mean neighbors the JERSEY SALUTE a few times, LOL and it would be a mini vacation for me, help for you, and I would MAKE IT fun for both of us!!}
but alas, I am a poor disabled soul and could not afford to travel to you, as I would need to go by train or bus, as I am afraid to fly. (yep, never been on a plane*, and I do plan on doing it someday, but not alone)
*I was on a small 4 seater when I was 16, and had NO FEAR! Youth IS wasted on the young. WHY do we get more fearful of things as we grow older???
Good thoughts always for you!
Hugs,
Susan
I love your suitcases there Anne. I have this ridiculous little wall you stare straight at when you walk in my door and nothing was right there, until I piled my suitcases five high and now it's perfect (at least i think so!). Now you've inspired me to actually decorate them a little, I'm liking the clocks!
ReplyDeleteTracey
Oh your suitcases just look beautiful! You are so talented at putting things together. Bless you and thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteLeticia
Anne,
ReplyDeleteI don't think any of us are ever completely 'done' with our old homes. It's a process, much like life, and the enjoyment is in the journey, not the arrival at a specific destination. Judging from all the beautiful vignettes you've created these past two years, I know you don't need any help setting up house. Your home is beautiful, a true reflection of the owner. Be sure to read my linked post at AnnaLaurie's I think you will be able to relate.
Your Friend,
Deborah
That book is to DIE for. I'd help if I lived closer, but then you'd have to come help me....! I've been here for a year and a half and still have bare walls and empty rooms!!
ReplyDeleteYour article- don't over think it. Try writing it like you were having a conversation with me. What's the subject, what points to cover, etc. Get the ideas in order, then go back and edit edit edit. Just get started.
Happy blogaversary to you! I've had the same challenge. I find that sitting behind in chair and writing about anything - and I mean anything, gets the words flowing again. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteDon't even know you, but wish I could come help you! I love Peg and all her French Vanilla goodies. Reminds me I still have some scalloped shelves to hang from her. 8 months seems to be my lag time!
ReplyDeletexo,
Linsey
PS - Read a guest post of yours over on Dear Lillie (visited for the first time) and LOVED it. Loved your "horse puckey" comment. Amen sister!
I just stumbled onto your beautiful blog.Love the vintage suitcases in the hall way.
ReplyDeleteOh Anne, I am drooling over your photos! Girl, you are so amazingly talented in so many facets, total inspiration!
ReplyDeleteLove your vintage suitcases....I can't ever pass one buy if it's priced right. They make such great accents and props.
Thanks for linking up to Farmhouse Friday! xoxo LA
P.S. Congrats on your blog anniversary, looking forward to the next two!
ReplyDeleteHappy Blogiversary!!! :) Your post is beautiful~ I love your suitcases stacked in your entry- so charming! Too funny about the stolen goods!!! Thanks so much for linking up this week! :)
ReplyDeleteI'm seriously swooning here... over the suitcases AND your amazing home. Wish I was closer, I'd love to help! :)
ReplyDeleteShared you on FB and pinned!
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150431866721141&set=a.192514281140.164586.175378011140&type=1&theater
Donna
Yes indeed. Happy Blogiversary to you!!!
ReplyDeleteI missed mine this year.
Great photo shoot too. Nice when you are able to focus on something fun for awhile
hugs and blessings
barb
I LOVE this look! and Happy Blogiversary!! I think my 2yr is next month:-)
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, Happy Blogiversary! I'm still under a year and am still a little blown away at everyone's creativity. Second, your suitcase entry table is so cute that I will be copying it in my own way. Thanks for the awesome idea! Third, I'm following and subscribing because I'll be watching very closely to see what you do with the house.
ReplyDelete