Maison Douce

An homage to {white}

2012-01-15T09:41:00.000-08:00

We woke up this morning to a beautiful layer of snow on the grounds... White is calming and soothing, and the reflection of light on it permeates my soul with smiling beauty... I couldn't help but share this gorgeous Australian home, where white takes center stage to create a sweet, restful environment...

Via

My favorite highlights of 2011

2012-01-01T14:08:00.000-08:00

As I revisited some of my favorite blog posts of 2011, I couldn't help but get, yet again, giddy with excitement at the fact that my year started with the incredible honor of being published on Somerset Life...!!! I still have to pinch myself!!

Most of my time this last year was focused on preparing for some of my favorite antique shows...

Junk Salvation

Farm Chicks

Barn House Country Marketplace

Camas Street Faire

Ruffles & Rust

One of my favorite highlights of the year was, without a doubt, a weekend spent with some of my favorite people in the whole wide world... There is nothing better than spending time with fun, creative, exciting, loving and kind women, who make your life richer and meaningful!!!

Dream Girls Weekend

I brought you along for some of my favorite visits to my favorite antique mall, Monticello Antiques...

Monticello Garden Show

Monticello Fall Show

Monticello Christmas Show

I shared some of my favorite finds...

... And some of my favorite creations...

I loved sharing recipes close to my heart...

Caldo Verde

Pão de Ló

... And favorite snapshots of my kids doing what they love...

One of my favorite highlights of this past year was my trip to England... A good buddy, a rented car, a map and a sense of adventure made for the very best of times!!!

(part 1, part 2, part 3 and part 4)

Finally, as the year approached its end, I opened up about my inner struggles to find peace in my heart... I was warmed by how loving and empathetic you all were, and realized I was not walking alone in my path to finding my way...

I wish you all a wonderful new year, may it be filled with joy, happiness and prosperity, and sprinkled with love throughout!!

Caldo Verde (Portuguese Kale Soup)

2011-12-30T17:36:00.000-08:00

No food screams more "Portuguese" than caldo verde... This soup is considered by many as the most popular staple in Portuguese cuisine. And it is oh, so simple to make!! When I am homesick, I find comfort in making familiar foods I grew up with... The main ingredients in this soup are potato and Portuguese cabbage (which we will replace with kale), but often smoked Portuguese sausage (chouriço) is added, for extra flavor. The key to this soup is cutting the kale really, really thin... If you visit any market in Portugal, you will find this cabbage already thinly julienned and sold by the kilo. I don't have access to chouriço around here, but I did find some Portuguese linguiça at my local supermarket!

Caldo Verde (Portuguese Kale Soup)

6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

8 to 10 ounces chouriço or linguiça, sliced or thinly chopped (optional)

2 quarts water

3 to 4 cups of kale, cut into very fine julienne (remove the thicker parts of the stems and roll the leaves together to make it easier to thinly cut)

1/4 cup olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fill a pot with the water, add potatoes, onion and garlic and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes. When the potatoes are tender, purée everything (I use a hand blender right into the pot, but if you don't have one, you can use a regular blender). You want to make sure that you end up with a fairly light potato broth, so at this point you can add some water if needed. Add the kale and the chouriço, along with the olive oil and let it cook for an extra 10 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste (sometime I will add a vegetable bouillon) and serve. I hope you will give it a try, I am sure you will enjoy it!

Bom apetite!!

Inspired by the Comtesse...

2011-12-11T00:15:00.000-08:00

There are so many things I love about this french romantic home... The owner, just like me, is a huge fan of the children's novels by the Comtesse de Ségur, and turned this gorgeous old presbytere into a lovely 19th century inspired home, one that the Comtesse's own "Model Little Girls" could have called their own! Shall we travel back in time together...?!!

via

Christmas at Monticello

2011-12-02T09:16:00.000-08:00

First and foremost, I just want to say that I am so deeply touched and thankful for those of you who so kind-heartedly reached out to me after my last post, I have read every single comment and email (more than once) and my heart is truly lifted... What a wonderful community we are! You have given me the wind I needed to keep on flying, I may not know the end to my Book of Life, but I hope I will tackle page by page, chapter by chapter with anticipation and excitement, and most of all, a grateful heart...!!

I leave you with pictures of the Old Fashioned Christmas Show at Monticello, as always the guest vendors have created a truly magical place and a shopper's paradise! The show starts today and runs through January 1st. Don't miss it!

To be {me} or not to be...

2011-11-25T22:51:00.000-08:00

I've been pondering, lately... About life, direction, dreams, destiny...

It all started with the realization that a few of my last shows have not been as profitable as they used to. A good friend kindly suggested that my stuff might be a bit "too sweet" for what people are looking for... You know, with the trend for neutrals and textures, burlaps and feed sacks, and industrial and rustic pieces, a booth with floral barkcloth pillows and pink accents might turn people off... I know there are still some die-hard lovers of all things romantic that will get lost in all the pretties I offer, but is it enough? Do I change who I am at heart and feed into the trend or do I stay true to who I am and don't compromise my love affair with romance? Can I find a balance, where I can still be passionate about the things I bring forth yet offer more of what people are looking for? I enjoy what I do, but I also do it as a means to supplement our income... Learning to adjust to our ever changing environment is a key to any successful endeavor. At the same time, I need to recognize that there are things I can change, and there are things I can't.

This all led me to a deeper reflection... An identity crisis of sorts, a restlessness in the depths of my soul... Is this really what I want to be doing for the rest of my life, or is there something else out there for me? And, if there is, will I find it?

I have always known that my true calling was to be a mom. I left all that was familiar and safe for me so I could start a family in a faraway land. Our nomadic military lives swirled us around the world, yet my husband and I were able to create a stable and grounded family. Far from having been the perfect parents (is there such a thing?), we still gaze at our children in awe of what amazing people they are becoming! I have had the priviledge of staying home with them and watch them grow, all the while finding ways to stay connected with other adults through creative outlets. In England I taught quilting classes from my home, in Morocco I published the American Embassy's newsletter... Here in Oregon I started a little venture selling vintage items at shows and antique malls...

My true calling is always going to be my true reason of being . I am aware, though, that as my children grow, they don't need me less, but they need me differently... As they get older and more independent, so does my need to become more independent myself... I want to see myself happy and fulfilled, after all isn't that the best example I can set for my children? I see so many of my friends following their dreams, pursuing their passions, be it fashion, food, photography, jewelry... But what if you don't really know what you want? What if you are not exactly sure what your passion is...? Over twenty years ago I would have seen my life differently, having studied Economics and Business, I would most likely have been a career woman, a banker, a financial executive... But my life took turns that I will never regret but that changed the course of what I was to become... I have always had a strong analytical side, and did not in the least considered myself the "creative" type... It wasn't until I moved to America that I learned to sew, quilt, paint furniture, decorate... I do love all those outlets, as I do hunting for vintage treasures... But where do I take it from here? How do I grow? Can I really find something that I am good at that is both emotionally fulfilling and financially rewarding?

Then, there is my practical side, the side that is thinking of dollars and sense, the side that realizes that outrageously high college tuitions are just a stone's throw away (oh, have I mentioned we have four kids?), the voice that says "forget your dreams, just get a job!" Easier said than done... How hard is it to find a job after being a stay-at-home mom for 17 years...? How hard is it to find a job, period? Do I go back to school and find a new vocation? Do I really want to?

My word for 2011 was GROWTH. I don't want to be too hard on myself, as I realize that I didn't quite accomplish many goals I set for myself... I am always growing... And I am still growing a family. Considering all the challenges set upon us, be it of economic, physical, social or any other nature, we actually all came out alright. Stronger. Closer. I will always strive for happiness. But my happiness is striving for a little clarity... An inspiring friend published a quote on her blog, that stuck with me: "The more you know who you are, and what you want, the less you let things upset you". That is the kind of inner peace I am looking for... If chasing your dream is hard, then finding your dream is even harder...

Ruffles & Rust

2011-10-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

We just came back last night from selling at Ruffles and Rust in Monroe, WA, and I have to say I was blown away with the sheer talent and beauty those amazing vendors brought forth... I was utterly inspired, it truly was a fabulous show!!! See for yourself...

Appley's French summer home

2011-10-14T20:25:00.000-07:00

British antiques dealer Appley Hoare found her perfect retreat in the French countryside... The simple beauty of the interiors and the serenity of the surrounds make it a perfect summer getaway!!

A little inspiration for your weekend...!!

Via

Soccer hair

2011-10-02T07:34:00.000-07:00

A part of my ritual every weekend with my daughter is to figure out what hair style we are going to create for her soccer games... It truly sets her apart and we enjoy it tremendously! Who said you can't play sports and look stylish at the same time...?

(my friend Randy came up with this style...!)

Lost and forgotten...

2011-09-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

The other day, as I was going through my attic treasures, I came across a black trash bag full of pillows. When I opened it, I realized they were brought back from a show a long time ago... So long, in fact, that I had completely forgotten about them! Among the pillows was this set of shams by Pine Cone Hill. I couldn't believe I had tried to sell them at one point... I love them so much and they look wonderful in my bedroom!!!

Have you ever sold something only to regret it? Have you tried to sell something for a while, then ended up finding the perfect spot for it in your own home? That has happened to me...

I tried to sell this darling cabinet for months, and when I brought it home I found a spot for it in the girls bathroom...

This darling hand painted folk art lampshade was in the market for almost a year before I brought it to my bedroom...

I had this scale at shows all summer long until I found a resting place for it in my dining room buffet...

Some treasures are finding themselves just "resting" for a while, some remain longer... Who knows... My treasures may be yours one day! I guess we are the ultimate recyclers!!

Monticello Fall Show

2011-09-09T10:54:00.000-07:00

The Fall garden show at Monticello never disappoints... The uber-talented vendors have, once again, created an amazing collection of displays, with the yummiest of vintage goodness! The show starts today and it runs for nearly a month. Don't miss it! If you are too far away, I leave you with some eye candy....

Camas Vintage Street Faire

2011-09-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I set up for my last show of the summer in Camas, WA. The Camas Vintage Street Faire is on its third year and is such a pleasant venue!! The street setting is gorgeous and the weather was beautiful! I met some lovely people and revisited with old friends... And came home with a lighter load... A perfect day!!

Here are some pictures from other lovely booths...

My girls Laurie and Debbie, from Worthy Goods, and Natalie, from Sparrow. I love them so much!

Buxton, Old Trafford and finally London {British Adventure}

2011-08-31T00:17:00.000-07:00

At the end of our week traveling the English countryside, we found ourselves heading back up to Manchester to pick up my daughter from her soccer camp. We had time for one more stop, so we landed in Buxton, a spa town at the edge of the beautiful Peak District National Park.

Then, after a loooong couple of hours trying to negotiate the streets of Manchester, we finally found our way to The Old Trafford stadium, where my daughter and many other kids were waiting after an amazing week of soccer training.

Shortly after, it was off to the airport so we could return the rental car (I was so happy not to have to drive anymore!) and take a train to London, where we were planing to spend a couple of days before returning home. Our first day in London (a Saturday) found us heading straight to busy Portobello Road.

(I love the look of this store, called All Saints! All the windows, even around the corner, were covered in old sewing machines, and there were more inside!)

Gorgeous antiques, but too expensive!!

Lots of creative photo ops...

Then we made our way to visit other landmarks...

Piccadilly Circus

Liberty

Carnaby Street (so different than it was 30 years ago, when our high school senior class traveled to London...!!)

Green Park

Look who we stumbled upon! Recognize him? It's none other than travel host Rick Steves!!

A view from the London Eye

Westminster Abbey (where William and Kate recently got married)

London Eye (with Big Ben in the background)

Tower Bridge

Tower of London

Covent Garden

I love Paella!!!

Buckingham Palace

No, this is not a famous landmark... But this chain of healthy fast food quickly became a favorite replenishing spot for our tiring bodies...!!! The salads were delicious, the sandwiches appetizing, and there were lots of healthy fruits, snacks and pastries, along with hot or cold drinks!

I hope you have enjoyed this voyage with me, it was a memorable trip and one I will hold close to my heart forever...!!!

Latest creations and off to Camas!

2011-08-26T22:27:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I am setting up booth at the Camas Vintage Street Faire... This is the third year that I have been a part of it, it is a delightful street faire in a quaint little town, hosted by two of my favorite girls, Laurie and Debbie, from Worthy Goods!

Here are some of my latest creations...

I hope to see you there!!

The Cotswolds {British Adventure}

2011-08-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

I was really looking forward to this part of the trip... I had visited the Cotswolds years ago, when we lived in London, and I was beyond excited to come back and see more...!! It is, truly, the epitome of English country and a place I could see myself moving to without skipping a beat!! We found ourselves first in Stow-on-the-Wold, a charming medieval market village with delightfully rustic stone buildings...

I looked at my checkbook, but, alas, couldn't afford this little beauty...!!

There were lots of antique stores to browse through, but the prices were too high for us thrifty girls!!

I think I have found my next dream vacation spot... You can rent this little beauty weekly, I couldn't resist looking online, it looks absolutely dreamy inside (here's the link)!!

But this sweet cottage was, by far my favorite... Straight out of a storybook...!!!

The entryways... Oh, the entryways!!!

The Royalist Hotel is the oldest hotel in England, it dates from 947 AD!!

Just a few minutes drive from Stow is Broadway, a charming village often referred to as "the jewel of the Cotswolds". The name comes from their "broad way" (called High Street), lined by red chestnut trees and gorgeous ancient honey-colored limestone buildings.

A local man told us about this church just a few minutes up the hill... He said they had filmed parts of "Four Weddings and a Funeral" there. That's how we ended up in Snowshill, a tiny village with a beautiful church and breathtaking curb appeal...

I think on my next visit I will follow this "Cotswolds Romantic Road" route, it sounds absolutely wonderful!!

Finally, we made our way to Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare (and one of the most important tourist destinations in England)

The gorgeous Avon river

Shakespeare's birth home

I know, this was a really long post (and I left much more out!)... It was all soooo pretty, I just couldn't help myself!!! I feel like the neighbor who invites you over for dinner then sits you down for an hour-long slide show of their latest travels...!!

My last post will include snapshots of our weekend stay in London (with a quick previous stop in Buxton and the Old Trafford stadium in Manchester - to pick up my daughter...). I hope you will visit me again soon!

Bath, Oxford and Banbury {British Adventure}

2011-08-18T11:48:00.000-07:00

Following our travels through Wales, we found ourselves in Bath, in the Somerset region of England. Bath was first established as a spa (due to its natural springs) by the Romans almost 2,000 years ago. After a few phone calls, we found a very centrally located B&B called Elgin Villa, which allowed us to enjoy walks around town without having to worry about parking...

Bath Cathedral

We couldn't leave without indulging on some fish and chips from Seafoods... Boy, was it ever so worth the extra calories!!! My mouth still waters, just thinking about it!

We left Bath and made a stop in Oxford, home of the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Twenty five years ago I spent 3 months in Cambridge perfecting my English, and absolutely loved every minute of it! I expected Oxford to have the same feeling, and, while the majesty and age of the buildings is still quite impressive, it didn't feel as "cosy" as Cambridge... Nevertheless, we enjoyed our visit tremendously!

Bridge of Sighs, modeled after the famous Venetian bridge...

Radcliffe Camera

Christ Church Cathedral

(couldn't help taking a picture, how sweet!!)

While we didn't ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross, we found ourselves spending the night at a sweet B&B in Banbury, as we were making our way up to the Cotswolds...

Easington House in Banbury

The original Banbury Cross was destroyed by Puritans in the beginning of the 17th century, and it wasn't until 1859 that the current Banbury Cross was erected.

Our next stop will be the stunning Cotswolds; it is, by far, one of my favorite parts of the world!

Wales {British Adventure}

2011-08-15T08:58:00.000-07:00

I have been so anxious to show you pictures of our trip to England, I took over 500 and I hope I won't bore you through many of them.... Lisa and I visited so many beautiful places, I can't help but wanting you to tag along with us!!.

I left a day earlier (remember, the day of Barn House...?) as I had to check daughter #3 into the Manchester United Soccer School at Denstone College, Staffordshire. We rented a car (driver's seat on the right, shifting gears with the left hand and driving on the opposite side of the road... Not a small task, especially after being awake for so long!!) and headed south. My mouth dropped when we arrived... This beautiful old building is right out of Harry Potter... Unfortunately, I discovered, once there, that I had packed my camera without a memory card (ugh!!), so I had to rely on my phone to record the moment...

After spending the night near the Manchester airport, it was time to pick my trip buddy up and start our journey... We decided to head towards the Snowdonia National Park in the heart of North Wales. The gorgeous countryside views blew us away... Endless visions of lush landscapes, spots of sheep everywhere, and rows and rows of stone walls...

After a quick stop at a farm shop and restaurant, to get a bite to eat (I had a delicious organic lamb burger!), we drove by a tiny quaint village called Dolwyddelan for a potty break - we loved the fact that most small villages have public toilets! - and were excited to find out they had a castle!

... The breathtaking view from the castle...

We then headed to the coastline and stopped at a quaint village called Harlech, where a majestic castle built in the 13th century oversees its entire surroundings, including an amazing beach...

We continued our journey south, through Barmouth (a quaint beach destination), Dolgellau and ending in Machynlleth, where after hitting 3 or 4 Bed and Breakfasts with no vacancies left, we found this little gem... An old mill house with a creek running behind it, in a quaint tiny village... We literally squealed with delight when we found out there was room for us!! Can we just move in?

I can't wait to share more, as our journey through England continues... Please come back, will you?

Barn House Country Marketplace

2011-08-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

What can I say... The pictures say it all!! The Barn House Country Marketplace was absolutely magical, everyone did such an amazing job displaying their wares, it was warm and inviting and there were treasures to be found everywhere you turned!!! The yummy food and the live music made it even more special... The saddest thing about that day was that I did not have time to visit with all my sweet friends, vendors and customers alike, as I had to rush to the airport at midday... My girls (always with a smile on their face, I heard!) ran my booth in my absence and sold tons for me! Thanks to all all who stopped by and truly made our day, and a huge thanks to J&J, who always welcome me into their lives with open arms and warm hearts, I love you guys!!!

I will be back soon with pictures from my trip to England, Lisa and I had an amazing time and took lots of gorgeous pictures... Can't wait to tell you all about it!

Off to England....

2011-07-30T05:44:00.000-07:00

To say that things have been busy around here is an understatement... Not only am I doing the Barn House show today, I am also leaving - today!- for England, where daughter #3 will attend soccer camp with Manchester United and I will play tourist along with my good buddy Lisa...!!! I ran out of time to take preview pictures of some of the things I have been working on, but I leave you with a picture of a dress form I worked on, I really love how it turned out! See you all in a few days!

P.S. Our England visit is open to our whim's desires, as we decided to go with the flow and make no set destinations... Let us know if you are anywhere between Manchester and London and we may show up!!!!

Summer fun days...

2011-07-25T16:53:00.000-07:00

A few days ago my girls and I took off, along with some girlfriends, to Seattle for an overnight trip...

The purpose? To watch a friendly soccer game between Manchester United and the Seattle Sounders!!!

Isn't it funny that all the girls went and all the guys stayed home...?!

We had so much fun, I don't think our girls will ever forget this trip!

Pike's Place

The reason why we were there (and we got to see 7 goals!!)....

Then, shortly upon our return our family was invited for a barbeque at our friends' beautiful country home...

Can you say j-e-a-l-o-u-s...??!!

The setting is gorgeous, the home is magnificent, there are chicken, alpacas, bees, lavender, and an incredible view...

And the sun was out!

The kids favorite of the day...

To finish off our weekend, there was a lot of this...

... And the best part? A championship win!!! What a great way to end an absolutely lovely week!!!

My {new} bathroom beauty

2011-07-19T10:16:00.000-07:00

Ever since I laid eyes on this beauty at Cindy's store, I couldn't take it off my head... The fact that the inside was painted pink tugged at my heart even more!! We made a deal, and now this gorgeous piece resides in my bathroom! Don't even ask how we were able to take this heavy monster up the stairs and around to our suite, especially since my husband just had hernia surgery and couldn't help... It was just me and my girls, boy we can do anything, when we have the determination!! The pictures are a bit dark as my bathroom window faces north and this dreary northwest weather is not helping, but I love it so much and it fits perfectly!!!

Countdown to Barn House Vintage Country Marketplace

2011-07-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

I cannot tell you how excited I am to, once again, be a part of my sweet friends Joe and Jermonne's amazing summer flea market at the end of this month...!! I am working hard to finish some great pieces, and sewing up a storm! What I truly love about this show is, first of all, the warm and lively hospitality in which we are enrobed, the gorgeous farm setting, the incredibly talented vendors (and great friends!), and the best customers around!!!! There will be live music, great food, and, of course, amazing vintage stuff! I leave you with some photos from last year's show... Will we see you there?

Sweet pink dresser for sale

2011-07-07T17:42:00.000-07:00

I hate to see this sweet dresser go... But I have found a wonderful piece to take its place! I have had this pink dresser and mirror for years and it is one of my personal favorite pieces... It is shabby chic at its best!! Lovely original chippiness (revealing an adorable turquoise under) and the sweetest barbola roses!! Before I take it to my booth at Monticello, I thought I would give my blogging friends first dibs... That's how much I love you!!!

The dresser measures 42" wide x 20" deep x 34" tall (65" with mirror)

Price: $225

Pick up only (local delivery can be arranged)

In love with {chalk paint}

2011-07-02T14:01:00.000-07:00

The first time I heard about Annie Sloan's chalk paint was when I bought this book, "Creating the French Look", by Annie Sloan... I was very intrigued by her paint, her colors and the incredibly authentic vintage look they resulted in. Upon doing a little search I realized it was available in England, but I didn't think we could get it in the US... Then comes in Miss Mustard Seed, with her wonderful tutorials, and I was thrilled to find out that the paint was available to us!! I spared no time ordering some and, ever since then, I have used nothing else! The fact that it does not require priming and it distresses beautifully has truly won me over!

Fast forward to a a few days before Farm Chicks... I was in a bind, I needed more old white paint to finish a large project and knew I didn't have time to order... So I searched for a stockist in the Portland (OR) Area and found Phyllis! We talked on the phone, she had just become a stockist for Annie Sloan paint and was still waiting for her paint shipment... But she very graciously offered to give me her own can of barely used Old White paint!!! Talk about a life saver!! Plyllis is getting ready to open a Annie Sloan paint store in the Alphabet District (near the Pearl), but she welcomes orders at any time, since she has stock on hand! She will also be offering classes and workshops on how to use this amazingly versatile paint!!

Here is Phyllis's contact information:

(707)318-4106

moonstonedesigns@yahoo.com

http://enchantingplayoflight.blogspot.com

store (opening soon):

1720 Lovejoy #120

Portland, OR

I would love to see your favorite chalk paint projects... Please share!!! This is my first time using a link gadget, I hope it works!!!

Walnut Bread, Pineapple Brownies and Pão de Ló

2011-06-25T14:42:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I have been craving sweets like crazy, lately...!!! I love baking, and when times are busy (when are they not busy...??!!!), I fall back to fast, time-tested, family favorites!! I have, at one point or another, published these recipes, but I thought I would bring them back for those who may have missed them. Trust me, they are truly delicious, and take so little time to whip up!! A funny story happened shortly after I published one of my recipes... One day, while visiting a local antiques show, a woman stopped me in my tracks, pointed at me and said "Pineapple Brownies!!!". I nodded and said, yes, that was me... She quickly called her husband and proceeded to tell him that I had been the one who had shared the pineapple brownies recipe. To my complete surprise, he placed his hands around my shoulders, leaned over and gave me a kiss on the cheek!! I still giggle when I think about it!!

YUMMIEST WALNUT BREAD EVER

2 cups flour

1 cup sugar

1 cup milk

1 egg

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts (I just place a handful of walnuts in a sandwich bag and whack it with a rolling pin!)

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all the ingredients until blended. Pour batter onto a greased and floured loaf pan and bake for about 1 hour or until inserted toothpick comes out dry. Remove from pan and cool on wire rack. Yummy!!

PINEAPPLE BROWNIES

1 3/4 cups flour

1 3/4 cups brown sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juice)

Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour onto greased brownie pan. Bake at 350 F for about 25 minutes. When cool, frost with powdered sugar or cream cheese icing. For extra flavor, add a small amount of pineapple juice to icing.

PÃO DE LÓ

(a portuguese recipe)

4 large eggs

same weight in sugar (about 1 cup)

same weight in flour (about 1 cup)

1 tablespoon baking powder

Separate egg yolks from whites. Beat yolks with sugar until creamy in consistency and color. Add flour and baking powder. Beat egg whites until they peak, then gently fold into the mixture (add a little bit first, as the mixture might be thick, then add the rest). Cook in greased bundt pan at 350 F for about 25 minutes. Enjoy!

A leap of faith...

2011-06-21T19:10:00.000-07:00

This picture remains, to this day, one of my all-time favorite pictures...

The way my daughter looks at the enormity of the challenge ahead, while listening to her older sister's words of encouragement really touches my heart...

It summarizes one of the most important life lessons I strive to ingrain into my children's soul...

"Take a moment of pause when faced with life's major decisions, open your heart to the voice of those who truly want you to succeed, then have the courage to take a leap of faith knowing you have worked hard to achieve your dream..."

Maybe I can follow in their footsteps....

Le Cirque de Tarte

2011-06-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

I can't tell you how exciting it is to see my friend Cindy's magical vision come to life... Everywhere I turn, something truly stirs my senses, it reflects a combination of love of the old with a bohemian, gypsy-like spirit, whimsical and fun!! Tarte is a store located in Aurora, OR and is open every third weekend of each month. If you have not been to Aurora, you are in for a treat! It is a quaint little town with lots of antique shops, a huge architectural salvage center and a quaint museum... A do-no-miss destination!!!

A dream home in the spanish countryside...

2011-06-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

A little french inspiration from my favorite go-to decor site is just what I needed today... The surprise is that this gorgeous home, reminiscent of a centuries old french country farm is actually brand new... And it is not in France, it lies in the breathtaking countryside of Spain...!! Enjoy the European inspiration!!

My booth at Farm Chicks and a few creations...

2011-06-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are some pictures of my booth at FC... Now, looking back, I wish I had taken more pictures, but, as you can see, there were early shoppers already in!!

Here are some of my creations that I did not have time to share before...

... And here is the only picture I have of myself at the show (taken with my phone)...!!! Not the best quality, but it will have to do!!!

As for the lone treasure that came home with me from Farm Chicks...? Here it is! I love, love, love it!!! It will be a great addition to my collection of countryside paintings...!!!

Farm Chicks {2011}

2011-06-07T12:30:00.000-07:00

We are just back from another amazing weekend at Farm Chicks... Again it gets so crazy busy it is hard to really savor everything the way I would like to...!!! I am deeply thankful for all the wonderful customers who paid me a visit, you are the reason I do what I do, it brings me so much joy to see a happy face holding a treasure they will take home to enjoy!!! I literally had 10 minutes before the show opened to make a (very) quick tour and snap a few pictures, but there were so many other's spaces I didn't get to visit (insert really, REALLY sad face here)...

A Thing for Roses

Bella Shabby

Blue Canoe

Lipstick Gypsy (I think it is safe to say they are pink lovers, just like me!!)

Lynne Gunderson

Retreat

(Doesn't he look like a rock star...?)

Junebug

Tarte

Teresa Sheeley

Today's Country Store

I will be back soon with pictures from my booth!! Plus the one little treasure I brought home...!

A trip down Farm Chicks memory lane...

2011-05-28T07:48:00.000-07:00

This year will be my fourth year at Farm Chicks... I thought it would be fun to share how my space has evolved through those years...

2008

2009

2010

I hope you will stop by and see me, I will be in booths 199 and 200... The excitement is more than I can bare...!!!

Objets trouvés

2011-05-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

I had a great junking weekend, I found lots of great stuff to take to Farm Chicks (only two weeks away... Yikes!!!)!! My house looks like a disaster, at this point, with a gazillion little projects going at the same time... Still so much to do, but I am feeling good about where I am right now!! As always, not everything I want to accomplish gets done, somethings always have to give... That's life!

(my favorite weekend find...)

I have also tackled a few projects, including this unusual "little big chair"... Love how it turned out!!

... a little paint transformed this wooden tote...

... as did this little cabinet (still needs glass on the door, but cute already)!

I wish you all a wonderful weekend!!!

A find

2011-05-16T12:15:00.000-07:00

This weekend I brought home this CL find... Natalie, you are the sweetest friend, thank you for the shoutout!!!! The best part about it was the price... The dresser top had a couple of rust stains, so I decided to strip it and stain the wood.... Love the wood accent, now!! This baby is ready for Farm Chicks!

Doing what I do best...

2011-05-09T19:43:00.000-07:00

I have neglected my blog lately, but I had good reasons... Four of them, to be specific! I've been busy being a mom, and supporting my children with school, homework, activities, sports, etc... My daughter Rita and her soccer team have worked really hard these past few weeks competing in the Oregon State Cup. They made it all the way to the finals, but took second place... Not too shabby, I would say!! Nothing compares to the pride and joy I feel as I witness first hand my children bloom and grow...!!!

(these are not my pictures, they were taken by another parent, and they are awesome, I couldn't help sharing them!)

A few projects...

2011-04-29T19:15:00.000-07:00

With a little over a month away from Farm Chicks, it's time to put the pedal to the metal and get things happening around here!! Progress is slow, as life is inevitably busy with four active children, but little by little I get there (no, I "aint" no overachiever, that's for sure...!!) I have been working on a few projects, and still have many more to finish. I thought I would share a few I have finished...

This box was already darling but a bit plain... Instant transformation with a stencil and paint!

I found this little cabinet at a garage sale, but the body had some hand painted flowers that were not my style... So, a little stripper did the job, I love how it turned out!

Another thrift find, this chair was unpainted and had a brown leather seat cover (sorry, I forgot to take a "before" picture...!). Some paint and a stenciled linen cover and the transformation is dramatic!

This table was a lovely CL find, I love how unusual it is...

I gave it a first coat of turquoise and a dry brush coat of white over it, a little distressing and glazing, and it looks awesome (even though I had a hard time painting over that gorgeous wood...!!)

I've also been sewing up a storm, but I will leave that for the next post... Have a wonderful weekend!

Easter in Portugal

2011-04-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

Easter in Portugal and the days leading to it are filled with joyous celebrations of the Resurrection of Christ, be it through colorful processions, masses, theatrical plays, street faires and the church bells reminding everyone to celebrate Life, in all its forms.

As a child growing up in Portugal, I knew a few things would happen at Easter, for sure... I would eat lots of chocolate and our family would gather together for a true banquet. One of the Easter specialties I remember well is the Folar da Páscoa, a sweet bread traditionally flavored with anise oil or seeds. Along with the majority of Portugal's sweet traditions, the Folar originated in the convents and monasteries of the 1700's. As I share this tradition with my children, I thought I would share it with you, too...

FOLAR DA PÁSCOA

400g Flour (about 3 cups)

15g Fresh Yeast or packet yeast – (fresh yeast is best) (1/2 oz)

45g Caster Sugar (or Icing Sugar if you don't have caster sugar) (about 1/3 cup)

90g Butter (about 1/2 cup)

1 Egg

300ml Milk ( about 1 1/4 cups)

1 tspn powdered Aniseed

1 tspn Cinnamon

pinch of sea Salt

To decorate:

1 or 2 hard-boiled eggs (leave in their shells)

1 beaten egg for brushing

Method

In a bowl combine the yeast, 1/4 of the flour, a 1/3 of the milk (warmed but not hot) and half the sugar.

Mix together to form a dough, cover and leave in a warm place for 1/2 hour

Whisk the eggs with the salt and spices and remaining milk and sugar.

Kneed in the flour and egg mix to the dough gradually then kneed in the butter.

Cover the dough and leave it to rise for about three hours in a warm place.

Break the dough into two (or leave whole) and plant the eggs on top. Make a cross with two rolled lengths of dough to put on the top, holding the egg in place.

Brush the bread with the beaten egg.

Cook at 425F/Gas 7 until golden brown.

HAPPY EASTER!!!

Twinkly greys

2011-04-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

I never used to give grey much of a chance, but I have to say that lately, I've been drawn to it more and more... I love the way the grey tones in this home bring warmth to all the white details... Grey, you have made me smile today!

Via

Objets trouvés

2011-04-13T10:54:00.000-07:00

... wood signs...

... old laundry basket...

... darling little child's lounge chair...

... old wool carding tools...

... old hook (please, help with what to call this?)

... vintage pink crinoline full of ruffle goodness...

... old cookbook...

... vintage petticoat...

... old stamp holder...

... handmade baskets...

... old baby bonnets and crocheted valance...

My friend Amy travels frequently to France, and finds the most amazing treasures to share with us... I am beyond excited with my french treasures!!!

... sweet velvet box...

... can you say a-d-o-r-a-b-l-e...??!!

... old fabric covered photo album...

... old linen towels...

... sweet chemise...

Monticello Garden Show

2011-04-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

The Garden Show at Monticello starts today, and it is absolutely incredible!! If you have a chance to visit, you will be as impressed and inspired as I was... If not, I hope these pictures will serve as comfort...!!

Random sweetness...

2011-03-30T22:52:00.000-07:00

I have noticed that I have not been posting much, lately.... The truth is, there isn't much to share, really! The kids are back in school after spring break and I have been spring cleaning.... Getting rid of, donating, making a garage sale pile, trying to get a little organized... I did just turn 48 this past Monday, and we all took to the mountain for some fun in the snow. My sweet husband and children surprised me with these much coveted boots, and I truly love them!!!

I had a little fun today with my camera, looking for random sweet things around the house, these are things that tug at my heart...

I am hoping to start working on a few projects soon, I can't wait to share them with you!!!

Loving big clocks and a DIY

2011-03-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

I have been loving the look of big clocks on the wall and now I have my eye on finding or making one...

via

This is Maria's Roost clock, which I love...

And below is a creation by Andrea, from Faded Plains, which cost her less than $27!! I love it!! Click on this link to find out how she made it...

A great find (or two...)

2011-03-20T06:34:00.000-07:00

Recently I happened to stumble upon these chairs on Craigslist.... I loved the lines, the carving details and I loved even more the price.... I immediately emailed the person, and received a reply that someone was coming to pick the chairs up soon.... I pouted.... Then, the following day, I get a call (I always include my phone number in my emails, just in "cases" - sorry, I couldn't help using a favorite line from a favorite movie, "Love Actually"!!!). The chairs were mine!!

These chairs will be getting the "french" treatment, hopefully in time for Farm Chicks... Stay tuned!!

For the love of Gymnastics

2011-03-18T17:46:00.000-07:00

I was a gymnast, from the time I was five until I turned ten. I had actually started in ballet, but, just a few months in, the ballet teacher (a former ballerina) told my mom I wasn't gracious enough for ballet.... So my mom switched me to gymnastics, and I was hooked! I instantly loved the sport, and would probably have continued with it for a long, long time.... But, before I turned ten, my family moved to the suburbs of Lisbon, and my mom was about to deliver her 6th child... So the trips to the gym became a true burden, and I had to quit.... I was heartbroken!

It wasn't until my own children started doing gymnastics that I tried to revive my memories in the gym... Surprisingly, I don't have that many... I remember my coach, but don't remember my teammates, except for one... I remember that my favorite thing was tumbling (does Flick-Flack ring a bell to anyone? It's called a Back-Handspring, now...), and I remember broken pieces of doing a meet.... I remember riding in the back of my mom's mini cooper on the way to the gym all the while doing a head-stand....

When I asked my mom if she had any pictures of me doing gymnastics, I was surprised to find out that there were none... Not a single one! So, I made a commitment to document my girls evolution in their beloved sport... Do you know how hard it is to take action pictures in a poorly lighted gym? It is a true challenge for me! I even took a photography class for that purpose, and I still can't do it!!!

So, I will leave it to the professionals...!!! Yes, we do have to pay a hefty fee for the photos, but, boy, are they ever worth it!! Here are some of my latest favorites from my daughter Clara, who is a level 7 gymnast...

And, this last picture is one of my all-time favorites from my daughter Rita's time as a gymnast... Looking at it is bittersweet for me, as she had to quit gymnastics (ironically, at age ten...) to pursue competitive soccer at a higher level...

Yes, there is no shortage of pictures in my own "mom's bragging album"...!!!! I know, one day, my girls will appreciate it...!!

Ruffles & Rust Square and my latest {objets trouvés}

2011-03-10T11:12:00.000-08:00

This weekend I had the immense pleasure of visiting Ruffles & Rust Square in Snohomish, WA... Timi and Annie have done an incredible job gathering some very talented dealers, and this new space is an absolute dream!!

I did find an absolutely gorgeous rose watercolor painting (which you will see below)... Here are some of my latest vintage finds:

Sweet little concrete statue... I love the detail on the back!

... Another darling pink toolbox...

... Sweet old basket with wood base...

... Old book and old box camera...

... Gorgeous chandelier...

... Darling little child's rack...

... And that fabulous painting I found at R&R Square... The best part? It only cost $28...!!!

Finally, one of my favorite finds this weekend... An old, heavy scale!