~ JCB ~

on the road, again

2012-01-24T14:13:00.002-05:00

Last week we hopped in the car and headed north for a long weekend.

First stop ~ New York, for all of the festivities surrounding the annual Winter Antiques Show. While we couldn't see it all in one day, we did make it to the Duncan Phyfe exhibition at the Met (buy the catalogue) and the preview of the Betty Ring Collection at Sotheby's. Both truly fantastic! Our day in the city was capped by an evening reception at Gracie Mansion, where this particular blogger actually sat in a Duncan Phyfe chair. Yes, it is still in one piece (a testament to its excellent construction). The house itself is truly magnificent, a rare glimpse of Federal-era New York. If you have never been, make a point to go! They offer tours every Wednesday. . . and special tea tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Second stop ~ Connecticut, where we were happily snowed in for a day, enjoying the company of some good friends (drinking wine and eating fondue into the wee hours).

. . . and then it was back in the car, headed south!

Cheers friends!

a new year

2011-12-30T13:00:00.000-05:00

I always look forward to a new year. I love the quiet and calm that new year's day brings, and the sense of hope one has for the coming year. Even though we inevitably bring our baggage along with us, a new year somehow feels like a clean slate. History waiting to be written.

We make lists and resolutions. We clean house, and start fresh. The glitter and pomp of Christmas ~ as much as I love it ~ begins to seem like clutter. I yearn for simple things, like a warm wool blanket, a cup of tea, and a new book.

So, here are some things I'm looking forward to enjoying this new year:

* a new taste
* a new bottle
* a new coat
* a new book (inspiring a new project)
* and some new adventures. . .

Happy New Year, friends!

hello winter

2011-12-29T14:13:00.007-05:00

A winter storm chased us as the gentleman and I drove back from Michigan on tuesday. Snow softly blanketed the landscape as we traveled in to Indiana and on to Ohio, finally turning to torrential rain as we approached Pennsylvania. Winter is here indeed.

Our holiday was warm and bright, a blurr of activity, presents, and family! And yesterday I turned 40. A strange milestone in some ways. I have been trying to decide if I actually feel middle aged. I don't think I do.

Cheers all!

the holly and the ivy

2011-12-20T13:45:00.002-05:00

This past weekend the gentleman and I attended evensong at the National Cathedral to celebrate the fourth sunday in Advent ~ a lovely reminder that this is a season for peace and quiet reflection. There is something about the acoustics of a cathedral that lends the human voice a heavenly quality. Just amazing.

We leave early tomorrow morning for a long drive north to spend the holiday with the gentleman's family in Michigan. So, I will sign off until the new year, wishing you all much love and joy this holiday.

And if you have a moment:

The Holly and The Ivy

{my favorite}

deck the halls!

2011-12-13T11:34:00.002-05:00

Season's Greetings friends!

I was just saying to a colleague that we should be able to add two hours to each day in December ~ there is just so much to do and so little time in which to do it! This past weekend we took a little time out from our hectic life to attend a friend's baptism and hear some of the Messiah. A good reminder of what the season's all about.

In other news, I am delighted to tell you that a certain project that the gentleman and I have been working on has (at last!) come to fruition ~ the gentleman's website! And blog! If you have a moment, please hop on over there and let him know what you think.

trouvée: thanksgiving dinner

2011-11-24T10:55:00.004-05:00

No inscription or date, but if you look carefully you'll see the turkey front and center. A Thanksgiving meal of a day gone by. {click image to view larger}

Eat, drink and be merry with a few new twists on some old holiday classics:

* sweet potatoes + marshmallow biscuits
* a squash crumble
* and a little something for the morning after

Happy Thanksgiving to friends and family near and far!

Cheers!

(I'll be back monday with one last book week post.)

book week: a fabulous feast

2011-11-22T15:59:00.013-05:00

Let’s face it, there is little much besides food that I can think about this week. So I am delighted to tell you about a wonderful new cookbook, Dining with the Washingtons, which is sure to satisfy both your palate and delight your sense of historical curiosity. What did our forbearers really eat?

Pulling from Martha Washington’s own recipe box, as well as other traditional 18th-century sources such as Hannah Glasse’s The Art of Cookery, this cook book presents some 90 historic recipes, adapted for the modern cook by culinary historian Nancy Carter Crump. The recipes are complimented with information exploring the menus, diet, and styles of entertaining enjoyed by those dining with the Washingtons at Mount Vernon. Included are all sorts of classic dishes, from hoe cakes and dressed crab to syllabub and cherry pie. And if Martha’s famous Great Cake isn’t enough to tempt you, perhaps the gorgeously-styled photographs of food and interiors will.

When I decided to write about this book, I asked the editor Stephen MacLeod if he would allow me to include a recipe to whet your appetite. And he graciously agreed. These stewed pears (pictured above left) are a simple, but elegant compliment to any holiday meal. Enjoy. . . and Happy Thanksgiving!

Stewed Pears

The title of this Hannah Glasse recipe may confuse modern readers. Her directions specify baked, not stewed, pears, although they are to be baked in red wine or port if the recipe below is followed. Glasse noted, however, that the fruit “will [also] be very good with water in the place of wine.” As an alternative to baking, she suggested stewing the pears in a saucepan set over a low fire, using the same ingredients. Serves 6 to 8.

6 to 8 large ripe pears, peeled, halved lengthwise, and cored

1 1/2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest

1/2 cup sugar

3 whole cloves

1 cup red wine or port

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Arrange the pears in a single layer in a 9-by-13-by-2-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the lemon zest and sugar over the pear halves, and place the whole cloves in the dish. Pour the wine (or port) over the pears.

3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, and bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the fruit can be easily pierced with a skewer or paring knife, basting occasionally with the liquid. The pears should be tender but not soft enough to break into pieces.

4. Remove the pears from the oven, and set aside to cool completely in the baking dish before serving.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Food styled by Lisa Cherkasky and photography by Renee Comet (all images courtesy of the Mount Vernon Ladies Association).

book week: flight of fancy

2011-11-17T10:59:00.012-05:00

I knew from an early age there was adventure to be found at the museum. A place full of magnificent tales and amazing journeys. Indeed, today’s book confirms it ~ Belle: The Amazing, Astonishingly Magical Journey of an Artfully Painted Lady.

It all begins with a 17th-century Dutch still life (Jan Davidsz de Heem’s A Vase of Flowers, for those of you with particularly curious minds) at the National Gallery of Art. When an employee accidently jostles the painting, two small butterflies are dislodged from the canvas ~ beautiful Belle and her friend Brimstone. There begins a journey to find their way home, navigating the expansive marble halls of the museum and overcoming adversity in the guise of a very hungry bird. Along the way, Belle gives us a butterfly’s view of some of the Gallery’s most famous artworks.

You really never know where she and Brimstone will land. . .

. . . until they find themselves back where they belong.

The book is intended for readers aged 8 to 11, but anyone with an adventurous spirit will be delighted by Belle.

I have had the pleasure of watching as Belle developed from the cocoon of an idea to a fully fledged butterfly ~ the author, Mary Lee Corlett, sits right next to me every day (my friend and colleague). I won’t tell you anything more about the process of bringing Belle to the world, because Mary Lee explains it best.

Happy reading!

All images courtesy of Bunker Hill Publishing, except: Jan Davidsz de Heem, A Vase of Flowers, c. 1660, oil on canvas, National Gallery of Art, Washington, Andrew W. Mellon Fund, 1961.6.1.

book week: a taste for the exotic

2011-11-16T11:53:00.014-05:00

When a copy of the recent Vendome Press publication, Exotic Taste: Orientalist Interiors, by Emmanuelle Gaillard, principal photography by Marc Walter, landed in my mailbox earlier this fall, it was almost like Christmas in September. Pages packed with sumptuous full-color images of architectural interiors, wallpapers, textiles and pattern books.

Certainly, much has been written about Orientalism and the Chinoiserie style, but few publications have put together so many instructive images in one place ~ modern and historic photographs of seldom-published interiors from St. Petersburg to Naples. Gaillard’s text lucidly explains the origins of the Western passion for the exotic and traces its development throughout Europe, from the restrained elegance of the 18th-century “Embroidered Room” in the Chinese Pavilion at the palace of Drottningholm, Sweden (above), to the pure exuberance of the late 19th-century Arab Hall at Leighton House in London (below). My one criticism is that, given the tremendous role that The Netherlands played in trade of ideas between East and West, there are no Dutch interiors included. The famous Chinese Room and Japanese Chamber at Huis ten Bosch in The Hague for starters. (But really, I am just being greedy.)

My only hope is that someone will write a similarly luxurious book on the exotic in America, beginning with the “Chinese Room” room at Gunston Hall in Virginia (one of the earliest such expressions of Chinoiserie in the colonies), to Olana, the famous Persian-style home of Frederic Edwin Church in the Hudson Valley, and the now lost Iranistan of P.T. Barnum (pieces of which can be seen at the Barnum Museum in Bridgeport, Connecticut).

All photographs courtesy of Vendome Press.

From top to bottom: 1) the “Embroidered Room” in the Chinese Pavilion at the palace of Drottningholm, Sweden; 2 and 3) elevation of the Arab Hall, Leighton House, London, built 1877 and 1899 by Geroge Aitchison, and a view of the actual hall; 4 and 5) detail of a tapestry, Asia, Sallandrouze Factory, after Jean-BaptisteAmédée Couder, 1844 (Musée du Louvre), and slant-top writing desk (once owned by Madame de Pompadour), attributed to Adrien Faizelot-Delorme (Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris); 6 and 7) detail of a long shawl designed by A. Berrus, manufactured in Paris, and a “sortie-de-bal” made from a cashmere shawl (Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris); 8) samples of woodblock-printed cotton, 1792 (Musée de la Jouy, Jouy-en-Josas, France).

book week 2011

2011-11-15T16:05:00.008-05:00

Well . . . it's that time of year again! Normally I ask some fellow bloggers (and friends) to contribute to book week, but there has been such a flurry of fabulous new publications this year that I thought I'd put together a holiday wish list of my top favorites. From kids to cooks to connoisseurs . . . I have a bunch of goodies in store! So bibliophiles, polish up those reading glasses and stay tuned. The party starts tomorrow.

Until then, cheers.

that golden light

2011-11-02T16:53:00.005-04:00

On sunday the gentleman and I ventured out to Georgetown for an afternoon walk, stopping along the way to take photographs and admire the Halloween decorations. We ended up at Café Bonaparte, known for its crêpes and Belgian frites. An hour later, a "glass of beer" had somehow turned into dinner and we walked out with our tummies full. That wonderful golden autumnal light followed us home, lengthening our shadows with each step.

The days are getting shorter.

Be well, friends.

apple season

2011-10-24T14:19:00.005-04:00

My favorite time of the year. Need I say more?

Cheers friends!

a picnic spot

2011-10-19T13:54:00.004-04:00

Picking a good picnic spot is always key. . . not too wet, not too sunny, not too buggy. . . something with a view, but secluded enough for a smooch with one's honey. Last saturday, the gentleman and I hopped in the car with a packed lunch of fresh bread, cheese, meats, and honey crisp apples. We drove down to Barboursville Winery, and after a rather hectic tasting session, decided on a cold bottle of Riesling and headed over to the famous ruins for a déjeuner sur l'herbe.

Anniversary perfection!

Thank you all for the kind wishes!!! It is hard to believe we have been married a year. What a wonderful time we have had.

one year ago today

2011-10-16T09:00:00.003-04:00

. . . I married my gentleman.

{ xo }

(photograph by Kate Headley)

the long weekend

2011-10-11T13:32:00.007-04:00

Why is it that three-day weekends always seem to pass by so quickly?

Saturday was spent with friends, and monday was a day for a serious "fall cleaning" (linens washed, wood floors scrubbed, closet organized). Sunday, we decided, was a day for an outing. . . in Leesburg, Virginia. We had no agenda, and lingered over a long lunch at the Wine Kitchen (we highly recommend the sweet potato gnocchi and the duck confit), before wandering around town, poking our noses into a few antique shops. We almost left empty handed (the selection was rather disappointing), but decided to stop at the German Favorite Antiques on our way out of town. Don't let the goofy name fool you. . . it's like walking into a Bavarian schloss. Seriously. Packed full of fabulous old furniture (from country farmhouse to Biedermeier), linens, porcelain, clocks, tools and any number of curiosities. We couldn't resist a gigantic old wicker hamper (to store all those nice clean linens in!).

Anyway, it has been a while since I left you with some links:

* Moving Day (a year ago!)
* Garden
* a New Orleans aesthetic
* and this post

Happy tuesday.

in boston

2011-10-07T17:11:00.002-04:00

Summer has somehow slipped into fall, the days are shorter and the evenings are cooler (which suits this Yankee girl just fine). The gentleman and I were up in Boston for a few days last week ~ wandering around Beacon Hill and a few fabulous museums in between conference sessions. My parents joined us in the city over the weekend, and together we enjoyed some seriously good meals! Such fun! But now our noses are back to the grindstone. . . sigh.

Just stopping by to say hello. . . and promise a few goodies to come next week.

Until then, be well.

Cheers!

the sound of silence

2011-09-21T16:39:00.007-04:00

Hello my old friends! Sorry to have been so long absent. September always greets one with a whirlwind of activity and storm of projects.

The gentleman and I have been busy putting the final touches on a certain "project" and I hope to reveal some details to you soon. It has been a ton of work and is certainly the biggest online venture (hint, hint) I have ever been involved with (besides this blog of course!). And hopefully when it is done, I'll be able to get back here more regularly.

I have been posting over on Instagram however (@jcbphoto) . . . if you don't have an iPhone (or Instagram), you can follow me online here. And the gentleman too ! ! !

Hope you are all well.

Cheers.

an outing

2011-09-08T12:24:00.006-04:00

The gentleman and I passed a quiet Labor Day weekend at home, working on odds and ends. Feeling a bit of cabin fever however, we decided to hop in the car on sunday afternoon and drive to Gunston Hall. It was not my first trip. . . but we were both eager to see the progress of recent restorations. And the house did not disappoint. Dressed in fresh paints, damask and gilt, the interior is now a feast for the eyes ~ scarlet reds, sunny yellows, and dramatic verdigris greens. It was just the shot of inspiration we need!

And so now, onward to autumn. . . .

Hope you are well.

Friends on the east coast, be safe in these terrible rains.

trouvée: grandpa's lima beans

2011-09-02T15:36:00.008-04:00

A recent find, an old cyanotype printed on postal card. It reads: "Aug. 29th 06 Dear Cousin / This is Grandpa among / his lima beans taken last / summer. With Love from Lucy." The back is postmarked North Anson, Maine, 29 August 1906, and addressed to Mrs. A. E. Hilton. {click image to view larger}

I just love, love, love it.

Some things:

* Camille's view of Maine
* The Clothesline
* and the dump (Yankee ingenuity)

I'm home sick I suppose (wish I was headed north for Labor Day).

Have a good weekend friends!

feeling lucky

2011-08-31T11:00:00.001-04:00

After a week that seemed like a page out of a doomsday novel. . . earthquakes, hurricanes. . . life in Washington has quietly settled back to normal. We were lucky, very lucky, considering the scope of the destruction wrought by Irene along the east coast. My heart goes out to all from North Carolina to my home state of Maine. My family is safe and well, but there are so many others who are not.

Every morning I walk past the Newseum on my way to work. Lining the entrance are daily copies of the front pages of local newspapers from all over the country. There you can find the local interest stories sadly lacking from The New York Times, or on CNN. Entire communities wiped out or stranded by flood waters that continue to rise. Historic buildings and bridges washed away by water. Many tough, but tired people. It is summer now, but these folks will soon be headed into a cold New England winter. It's hard to think about.

But, here are some ways to help on an immediate, local level:

* American Red Cross of Vermont & New Hampshire Valley
* American Red Cross Connecticut Region
* The Preservation Trust of Vermont

And here in Washington, the National Cathedral sustained several million dollars of damage in last week's earthquake. You can help the repair effort.

If anyone has additional suggestions for local aid organizations, please add them in the comments.

Here's hoping you are all safe and well.

a day in virginia

2011-08-23T16:40:00.001-04:00

A bit more from our day in Virginia, visiting Stratford Hall. The apple trees were in full glory, braches straining under the weight of a bumper crop.

P.S. All are fine after the 5.9 earthquake here in Washington.

Be well. Be safe.

an apple a day

2011-08-22T14:05:00.005-04:00

A lovely weekend! Clear, warm days interrupted by a thunderstorm or two (with enough drama to be interesting, but not so much to cause serious damage). The gentleman and I decided a field trip was in order, so we hopped in the car on friday and drove down to the northern neck of Virginia to spend the day with a bit of history (more on that to come). There was a touch of fall in the air, which always puts me in a good mood. The apple trees were laden with fruit and the corn stalks so tall they obliterated the horizon. A few yellow leaves were stirring in the wind. Nothing like some fresh air to clear a foggy mind.

But, then there were papers to organize, an apartment to clean, and laundry to do. . . so back to reality. Oh, and the gentleman and I are working on an exciting project I hope to show you soon.

Cheers.

And happy monday.

trouvée: a kiss

2011-08-19T08:33:00.005-04:00

My parents were married 44 years ago today. And after all those years, they still enjoy a good kiss. (This is not them, but if I'd had access to their wedding album. . . I would have pilfered a photo). Happy Anniversary to one swell couple. xo {click image to view larger}

Happy,

happy

weekend all!

(the gentleman and I are playing hookey today, shhhh)

quiet mornings

2011-08-17T16:50:00.002-04:00

It has been a busy week. And not quite half over! With the weather cooling off a bit, the gentleman and I have started taking early morning walks. The streets are still quiet and the light is beautiful. We don't talk much, both still wiping sleep from our eyes and dreaming of caffeine. But, he'll hold my hand, and we'll stop occasionally to silently admire a building or peek through a garden gate. Sometimes the best part of being with someone is not having to say anything at all.

Some things:

* 5 Beekman Street (thanks Anne!)
* bread from Gran's Kitchen
* and Always With Butter

Enjoy!

trouvée: the picnic

2011-08-12T17:30:00.002-04:00

No date. No inscriptions. Just two lovers in the woods. My favorite photo find of the year. {click image to view larger}

Some beauties today:

* From the Winter Woods
* Bucks Mill Cabin
* and 3191 gets a makeover!

Here's wishing you all a wonderful weekend.

I have something very nice planned. . .

. . . but before that, the gentleman is taking me out to dinner.

xo

in the wild

2011-08-09T17:20:00.003-04:00

While we were in Maine my parents held a lobster bake so that the gentleman and I could celebrate our marriage with family and friends in true New England style. We were tasked with gathering wild flowers for the centerpieces (such an awful job, right?), and so trotted off with baskets in hand. Besides masses of the ubiquitous Queen Anne's Lace, we managed to scrounge up some pink clover, yarrow, mallow, early golden rod, and wild sweet peas (my very favorite discovery) !! Along the way we snacked on wild blueberries as the bugs snacked on us.

Ahhhh, fleurs. . . .

Happy tuesday all!

fields of yellow

2011-08-08T17:35:00.002-04:00

Buttercups. The next best thing to Queen Anne's Lace.

I want you to know that I ran gleefully into this field to get these shots, only to emerge covered with slugs. Ahhh, what price beauty? Bugs and slugs. And an army of Japanese beetles. I'm always amazed at the wild life that crawls out of an armful of wildflowers.

Anyway, just a bit of yellow for now.

Until tomorrow. . . enjoy.

an evening in maine

2011-08-05T17:34:00.009-04:00

Drinking wine and watching the sun set through the Queen Anne's Lace. That's about as close to perfection as one gets.

Oh, my gosh:

* these beautiful flowers

* this photograph

* and this one

* Kate in Tennessee

* and some risotto (the gentleman is cooking dinner!)

Cheers all.

Have a good weekend.

a breath of fresh air

2011-08-03T12:55:00.005-04:00

Hello all! We are just back from Maine, happy from our time in the salt air and sunshine (and not at all ready for the furnace-blast of hot air that greeted us on our return!).

A random list of things today:

* The Invention of the Past (already on my wish list)
* a house in Belgium (oh, the gardens!)
* and a bit of architectural archaeology

Lots more to come from Maine in the next few days.

Hope you are all well. . . cheers!

the peach

2011-07-26T12:47:00.003-04:00

When peach season arrives I pretty much drop all other fruits. I will not buy a peach at any other time of the year. They have to be local. So when they're in season, I go crazy. I find a way to sneak peaches into everything. Add them into salads. Or by themselves with a little balsamic vinegar, some olive oil, sea salt, pepper, some basil, and a sprinkle of feta ~ divine. Grilled peaches and shrimp with curry and honey. Peach crisp, peach pie, peach tarts. . . and omg, peaches with blue cheese.

Ahhh. . . the peach:

* Georgia peaches
* peach gnocchi

Yum! I'm off to Maine tomorrow. . . where I hear blueberries are in season (okay, so I am fickle).

Cheers.

on a hot day

2011-07-22T11:34:00.007-04:00

Some greens from the vegetable garden at Longwood. If I had a proper garden, it would look just like this! Some day perhaps.

At the moment I am wilting in the 103-degree heat. And tomorrow the same.

Stay cool friends.

Have a good weekend!

keeping it simple

2011-07-19T14:26:00.004-04:00

Summer is about keeping it simple. It is too hot for anything else. A white linen shirt, an easy dinner of green salad and fresh corn, a spot in the shade. Bare feet!

Some things I love:

* a trip to Vermont

* the photographs of Rhine Allen

* and the Taste of Stilton Cheese !

Happy tuesday.

an evening walk

2011-07-18T15:30:00.001-04:00

I love an evening walk, just as the sun begins to sink toward the horizon. Light sparkles through the trees, and the worst of the afternoon heat is over. Last night, the gentleman and I took advantage of the (relatively) moderate weather and went for a stroll in Georgetown. We lingered in the golden sunlight, tripping over brick sidewalks, and peeking through garden walls. Content.

The weekend was spent on the Eastern Shore with old friends, saturday evening by the bay with steamed crabs and the first corn of the season. On my way home yesterday, I stopped at a farm stand and picked up tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, corn, and big, fat blackberries! The blackberries picked that morning, still warm from the sun. Summer bounty.

And, while on the topic of food. . . I have been enjoying honey & jam!

Happy monday.

trouvée: at the shore

2011-07-15T23:55:00.002-04:00

This was given to me by a dear friend, one of many photographs I will treasure. There is no inscription or date.

I am off to the Eastern Shore for the weekend with some old college friends. Not sure I'll wear my pearls, but my old straw hat will be a must! As will a pile of Maryland crabs and some cold beer.

Here's wishing you all a wonderful weekend, and if you have time, check out the new Kinfolk magazine. Beautiful photography and recipes!

Cheers!

on a hot afternoon

2011-07-14T13:30:00.002-04:00

I am dreaming of cool, green shade. After a week of days in the 90s and 100s, I am wiped out! Being a northern girl, I am not made for southern summers.

Ah, well, just looking at these beauties makes me feel cooler:

* parasols
* tea sandwiches
* radishes
* and some berries!

Happy Bastille Day to all of my French friends! Salut!

Cheers all.

into the woods

2011-07-08T16:49:00.001-04:00

As much as I love the Maine coast, I love the Maine woods. The soft floor covered with pine needles and smelling just like a balsam pillow. Lichen and moss in all shades of green. Strange mushrooms in a shocking array of colors and shapes. Ferns. Oh, and pinecones in every size.

I spent a lot of time in those woods as a kid, hunting for elusive Indian Pipes and Jack-in-the-Pulpits (and avoiding poison ivy). I even had a moss collection (which always dried up in a rather disappointing way). The woods have a strange, other-worldly light that makes one dream up the most fantastic stories. There is magic in there. I know it.

Happy weekend!

I'm off to read some John Burroughs.

along the coast

2011-07-07T12:30:00.002-04:00

I have to admit I miss the old wooden lobster pots. They are a relic from another age I suppose, now widely replaced with wire mesh. The half-barrel, wooden trap is said to have originated on Cape Cod in 1810, and served the east coast fishermen well for nearly two centuries. The new traps made an appearance about 10 years ago, and are far more efficient (lobsters having figured out how to escape the old ones!). Hard to argue with that.

even in the fog

2011-07-06T18:20:00.007-04:00

. . . Maine is glorious. I love the sound of the fog horns, and the clanging of invisible buoys. The stillness of the water, and the smell of salt air. I love the comfort of wrapping oneself up with a blanket at night.

Sigh.

It was hard to leave.

summer idyll

2011-06-30T17:07:00.008-04:00

After a busy week of work (running around New England), the gentleman and I finally have a few days of down time in Maine ~ reading, writing, beachcombing. Eating (it's a good year for strawberries!).

There's lots to share. . . houses, history, and more. But, it will all have to wait until next week. I am signing off for now ~ it's time to be with family and friends. Time to celebrate our Independence. Wishing those of you stateside a very happy holiday.

A good weekend to all!

up north

2011-06-25T20:25:00.004-04:00

In Maine. . . for a bit of a break. Stopping in Boston and Salem along the way (finally had a chance to see the new Art of the Americas wing ~ fantastic!). We have been greeted by grey skies and chilly rain. However, there are bowls of fish chowder and hot haddock sandwiches to warm us up.

Some bits of wonderful from Beantown:

* extraordinary embroideries
* Old North Church
* the Printing Office of Edes & Gill
* and a good meal at Marliave

Cheers all.

the longest day

2011-06-21T17:05:00.001-04:00

Welcome Summer (as of 1:16pm est)! Along with your hazy, lazy days. This was taken from my roof top around 9:30pm last night, just as the sun was giving up the day. I'll be top side again this evening, along with my stitching group. We'll greet the season with dinner and drinks (and maybe, maybe a little stitching).

Some things, just for fun:

* oh, the pleasure, the pain: busks
* and some old-time hotties (quite possibly the funniest thing I have seen in a long time)

Happy Solstice. . . what are you all up to?

june roses

2011-06-20T15:15:00.006-04:00

At Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania this past weekend, the last of the June roses.

Some important bits of news:

* the Museum of Photographic Arts joins flickr commons
* the British Library goes digital!
* Inigo Jones is online (turn the pages)

. . . and just because it's monday ~ a wee bit of mystery to add intrigue to your day.

Cheers!

trouvée: white linen and boater hats

2011-06-17T11:49:00.007-04:00

A tiny snapshot, with big style. Measuring just 2 x 1 1/4 inches. No inscription or date. Simply stamped: "Jenkin's Camera Shop / Jacksonville / Florida." {click image to view larger}

Some photo news:

* Billy the Kid goes to auction
* the "riot kiss" (mystery solved)
* and The Alice Behind Wonderland

Happy weekend!

Cheers.

all in the details

2011-06-15T22:29:00.005-04:00

I love the textures and patterns of an old house ~ all the details that tell the story and reveal the history of a place. I am working on a house tour (it has been a busy week!). In the mean time (speaking of history):

* 300 years of Ascot fashion

* a trip to Old Salem
* and bringing new life to an old castle

Happy wednesday!

home sweet home

2011-06-13T17:04:00.007-04:00

After a long week of travel, it is good to be home. Ahhh, time to unwind and reconnect with our lives. A day spent with friends, a dinner with neighbors, and a serious gardening session were in order!

The sunday market was bursting at the seams with yummy produce. Cucumbers, tomatoes, beets, fresh eggs, and fragrant lavender. And squash blossoms, that delicacy of summer ~ they hardly made it out of the bag before being stuffed and fried for lunch.

Stay tuned this week for a house tour, and a few other bits from my trip to the midwest.

Cheers!

an evening in st. paul

2011-06-08T18:19:00.004-04:00

Hot and sultry in the Midwest! Traveling from Minnesota to Iowa and on to Nebraska, and it just keeps getting hotter in the heartland.

Just visible in the background of this photograph is the oldest extant house in St. Paul. Once the home to Justus Ramsey, an early Minnesota settler, it is now part of the patio at Burger Moe's (where they have a seriously yummy lamb burger with feta cheese and yogurt). Before that it served as a margarita bar for a Mexican restaurant, and the trim was painted a rather shocking pink! But the bones are still good, and there is hope for the old place.

Lots more to come. I'll be home soon.

Stay cool.

trouvée: the three graces

2011-06-03T16:45:00.000-04:00

No inscription, no date. Barbara's beautiful women in white made me think to dig this snapshot out. There is just something about summer fabrics and soft breezes. Simply looking at this photograph makes me feel cooler. {click image to view larger}

Lots of goodies this week:

* New York is on the half-shell
* Stéphanie de Rougé is On your Roof (via Simply Photo)
* George Washington's garden is revamped
* and Mary Boykin Chestnut's Diary is reprinted (to mark the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the Civil War)

Here's wishing you a wonderful weekend. . . xo.

at home with the gentleman

2011-06-02T18:14:00.006-04:00

. . . the 1882 John Crispe House. Perfectly curated, with the eye of an aesthete. Its restoration was a labor of love.

The library contains everything from 19th-century red leather and gilt bound gift books to early copies of Hints on Household Taste and The Book of Mormon.

{click images to view larger}

the long weekend

2011-06-01T13:25:00.012-04:00

We are just home from Michigan, visiting the gentleman's family for the Memorial Day holiday. We cooked and grilled, and ate quite a feast ~ a real celebration with friends! And lest we forget why we remember this day, there was a home town parade complete with tractors and vintage cars decked out in their patriotic best.

The vegetable garden was just beginning to stir, but there were irises and coral bells in bloom, and fragrant chives. We came home with armfuls of peonies and fresh rhubarb ~ little reminders of those long summer days in western Michigan.

Three delicious bits of seasonal bounty:

* Keiko Oikawa (thanks to Emile for this link!)
* green gazpacho
* and Donna Hay's Seasons!

And tomorrow. . . a peek inside the old house in Michigan!

I hope you all had a good weekend.

so sweet!

2011-05-24T13:59:00.004-04:00

Georgia peaches. The gentleman stuck these in my shopping cart last night. The first of the season. Ridiculously juicy and sweet.

And pretty enough for an impromptu still life.

I am also thrilled to tell you that our wedding is featured on Snippet & Ink today. My very favorite wedding blog! A huge honor ~ thank you to Kathryn, and our wonderful photographer Kate! Everything looks so beautiful.

Happy tuesday all.

market days

2011-05-23T17:25:00.004-04:00

Pink peonies for Courtney! Buckets and buckets of them.

I have learned that every now and then one simply needs to give into the season and revel in the bounty. For example:

My mother tells the story of my great-grandmother making strawberry shortcake for sunday lunch. Just that, strawberry shortcake. Served on her pink-flowered Haviland china. So, when I spied fresh local berries at yesterday's market (the first of the season), I decided to continue the family tradition. Hot biscuits baked from scratch, whipped cream with a dash of elderflower syrup, and sweet red berries. All piled high. I think the gentleman was a bit incredulous when I handed him his lunch. For real? Yes, for real. . . enjoy.

xo

trouvée: the back yard

2011-05-20T15:45:00.001-04:00

Inscribed: "Kincaid's back yard. / Bethlehem, Pa." Date stamped: July 1954. This one pretty much sums up my personal feelings about the advent of bathing-suit season. {click image to view larger}

Better pull out my straw hat and get my summer reading in order:

* Caleb's Crossing, by Geraldine Brooks
* The Violets of March, by Sarah Jio
* and some Great Food. . . where to start? (I am leaning towards The Joys of Excess)

Warmth is in our forecast.

Have a great weekend.

up in the air

2011-05-19T17:28:00.002-04:00

Our little garden on the roof. Anyone need basil? Because we have more than we can handle. The plants love the cool, wet weather.

Container gardening is an interesting challenge, especially 11 stories off the ground! Things don't work the way they do on (or in) the ground. We learned a lot from our mistakes last summer, and seem to be doing very well this year. I have found Gayla Trail's blog You Grow Girl to be a fantastic resource. . . and her book Grow Great Grub has become my gardening bible.

So what to do with all those herbs? Get cookin'! Last night the gentleman made bruschetta, with local mozzarella, tomatoes, big FRESH basil leaves, and a slice of avocado. And I am thinking this chilled leek soup sounds good.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

Or for that matter, growing in your garden. . . ?

hopping the pond

2011-05-18T23:44:00.005-04:00

. . . for a bit of Georgian architecture. A snippet from my visit this past February to Dr. Johnson's House in London.

Inspired by Emily's trip in January, I decided to seek out this little gem of a house. Finding it is no easy task, tucked away in the heart of Fleet Street (in fact, had EEE not mentioned the nearby McDonald's, I think I would have thrown my hands up in despair). That the house has survived history is extraordinary. . . literally being blitzed during WWII, and now hemmed in by modernity. As Emily wrote, the house is sparsely furnished, leaving one to conjure up the past without the clutter of objects. After all, it is the stories of the personalities that inhabited the place that really matter. From an architectural perspective, however, it is fascinating to see a Georgian townhouse so intact.

Also not to be missed:

* Danson House
* Fenton House
* and a place in Wales

And I must say ~ I am so impressed by this site: London. . . shh. What a brilliant idea!

oh, palladio!

2011-05-17T16:28:00.006-04:00

From our adventures at Arlington House last weekend. It was a ridiculously gorgeous day for the annual outing of the Center for Palladian Studies in America. This year, Washington! From Latrobe to Mills to Thornton, it was an architectural orgy, and an opportunity for me to look at my city from a different perspective. Funny how things can become so familiar that you don't really see them.

Just a little plug ~ but I must say that the CPSA is a great organization. If you are even remotely interested in architecture, it is well worth the $30 to join. The journal alone is worth it!

trouvée: the hollyhock

2011-05-13T16:40:00.007-04:00

Don't you wish you knew the story behind this one?! Alas, there is no inscription. But, I think it safe to say that was one prize-winning hollyhock! {click image to view larger}

Some things:

* Howard Sooley (Emile reminded me of his work the other day by mentioning Derek Jarman, whose famous garden Sooley so eloquently photographed)

* and an advance copy of this impressive tome (832 pages) just arrived on my desk! Having had the pleasure of assisting on it over the past 5 years, I can say with authority. . . it is REALLY well done. (You should order a copy.)

Have a great weekend. Cheers.

lately

2011-05-10T17:00:00.006-04:00

We have been enjoying the most wonderful evening skies (it's a bit distracting).

There has been good food and wine: i.e. salmon fillets with fresh dill from the garden, roasted chicken with sage, rhubarb sauce, and quiche with local spinach and leeks. Oh, and I discovered the gentleman doesn't like peas! However, for those of you who do ~ yum.

We have been reading, a lot. There are currently piles and piles of books "in progress." Our wedding registry consisted primarily of books, and we received many beautiful, wonderful things, but until recently have had no time to read them. We were also given an extraordinary library by a very special lady ~ it has now been (mostly) catalogued, and we are ever more in awe.

And the garden! It loves the cool spring rains.

Hope you are all well.

a place in the shade

2011-05-09T17:29:00.002-04:00

We had a gorgeous weekend here in Washington. Lots of sun and green leaves. Perfect weather for exploring old houses. But, more on that later. . .

For now, two things:

* old + new on the Isle of Coll

* and are you up for editing some Dickens?

Until tomorrow, adieu.

the language of flowers

2011-05-04T16:26:00.021-04:00

Of the many details from last week's royal wedding, I was particularly intrigued by the attention paid to the meaning of flowers. According to the official website, Kate’s bouquet, designed by Shane Connolly, was comprised of flowers chosen for their significance to the families of the bride and groom and their meanings according to the Language of Flowers ~ lily-of-the-valley: return of happiness; sweet William: gallantry; hyacinth: constancy of love; ivy: fidelity, marriage, wedded love, friendship, and affection; and myrtle: an emblem of marriage and love.

When I put together my own bridal bouquet, I admit that I did not pay any attention to the meaning of the flowers included. So, curious to know the message carried in those blooms I turned to the gentleman’s extensive library of Victoriana which (naturally) includes a book on deportment, a whole chapter devoted to the Language of Flowers.

The translation:

* white roses: pure love
* ranunculus: radiant charm
* cosmos: beauty (derived from the Latin "kosmos")
* astilbe: “I'll still be waiting”
* blue thistle: austerity, independence, and nobility

Also in the mix were leaves of dusty miller and sprigs of silver brunia berries, which as far as I can tell have no assigned meaning. All together, I think the symbolism is quite perfect. Incidentally, my two matrons-of-honor carried bouquets comprised of the same flowers, but instead of the chocolate cosmos and astilbe, I included white and brown Queen Anne's Lace, signifying "haven, or protection" (rather appropriate, no?).

And what would a groom be without his boutonnière? The gentleman wore a blue thistle with leaves of sage, meaning "domestic virtue and wisdom," and thyme, signifying "thriftiness." After our ceremony my niece stuffed a bright pink clover flower in with everything. Clover, meaning "to live a carefree life of ease, comfort, or prosperity." She may not have realized it, but she gave us a most wonderful wedding wish!

(photographs by Kate Headley)

spring things

2011-05-02T11:42:00.005-04:00

Some scenes from our weekend. Nasturtiums for the garden. And lots and lots of asparagus (2 pounds to be exact), which I blanched and served cold with curried mayo. There were also pungent leeks, fresh local spinach, and rhubarb. I love spring things!

Not to be missed:

* Savage Beauty at the Met (opens May 4)

* and a menu fit for royalty

Happy monday!

trouvée: an english wedding

2011-04-29T23:45:00.008-04:00

An old Wide World press photo, dated 25 February 1938, and labeled "An Asquith Takes A Bride." The caption reads: "Binfield, England -- Michael Asquith and his bride, the former Diana (Didi) Battye, London society girl who disappeared for nine days last June and was found on the steps of her fiance's home, leaving All Saint's Church after their wedding on Feb. 17."

Exact details of the story are sketchy in contemporary news reports. Miss Battye disappeared while staying with her friend Viscountess Long in Oxford Square, and was feared kidnapped (she had been attacked with a razor on the evening of the coronation of George VI several weeks earlier, and her fiance Michael subsequently received an anonymous letter threatening her well being). However, she turned up several days later in Regents Park, near the home of her future mother-in-law. She was suffering from what The New York Times called "nervous strain" and "memory loss," but was otherwise unharmed. The couple married and had three children, but ultimately divorced in 1952.

Today's English wedding was surrounded by far less intrigue. Lovely in every way! A new, fresh approach for the British monarchy, I think.

Some of my favorite bits:

* the dress!
* the flowers
* the kiss(es)
* and that Aston Martin

Well done! And a happy weekend to you all. . .

wild greens

2011-04-28T12:30:00.008-04:00

As excitement builds over tomorrow's royal nuptials, details about the wedding flowers have begun to trickle out ~ white lilac, wisteria, azalea and lily-of-the-valley mixed with wild green shrubs, maple and hornbeam trees. All set to transform Westminster Abbey into a woodland wonderland.

I am reminded of my first trip to St. Andrews in 2008, where wildflowers cling to the craggy bluffs above the famous rocky beaches. Even in June the North Sea winds blow cold and damp. Most of my time in Scotland was spent combing through books in the basement of the university archives, but on my lunch break I would grab a bag of fish and chips and head for the bluffs. The hot, salty fish burning my fingers as I sat on a bench watching the water, huddled in a warm wool scarf. It is a wild, romantic place.

Things British, to put you in the mood:

* the places of Jane Eyre's world

* Hicks and Jekyll on Style Court

* Kate Headley's London

* and a discovery in St. Martin's Lane

Until tomorrow. Cheers.

hot days, warm nights

2011-04-26T16:45:00.008-04:00

Washington has made the usual winter-into-summer transition (for the most part bypassing spring), so you will have to forgive the lack of posts ~ I have been "digging" in the garden, and trying to catch those cool rooftop breezes. But, I do have something on Swan House lined up (in the relatively near future). In the mean time, I give you roses.

And a few other things:

* Gone with the Wind (in New England?)

* Gone + almost forgotten
* and a southern supper

Happy tuesday. xo

trouvée: a-tisket, a-tasket . . .

2011-04-22T17:00:00.009-04:00

. . . a green and yellow basket! Little baskets and big bows, some chocolate eggs and jelly beans ~ Happy Easter! {click image to view larger}

Some spring things:

* bluebells (and more bluebells)
* pasta with peas and mint
* a simple soup
* dogwood
* and one very old Easter rabbit!

We planted our roof garden last night. Flats of basil, rosemary and lavender ~ tomatoes with jaunty names like "Big Boy" and "Stripey" ~ and pots of sweet banana peppers. Amazingly, the oregano, thyme and mint survived the winter and already are going strong. I think it will be no time before mojitos are on the menu!

Have a good weekend friends.

a few days in the sun

2011-04-21T15:44:00.010-04:00

Back north. Home from Atlanta. I miss all the green leaves! And the heady scent of flowers.

Just a little preview of what's to come from the majestic Swan House. . . in the mean time, there is a garden to be planted. And lots of work to catch up on.

Cheers!

down south

2011-04-18T23:28:00.010-04:00

. . . where the air is soft, the skies are blue, and the sun is warm on my face. There are lush green leaves, and bushes heavy with roses.

And there are lots of Peachtrees (but no peaches!).

Sunday afternoon was spent getting to know a friend for the first time, and monday morning seeing a classic piece of architecture. Then it was time to get to work. . .

I'll be home soon.

trouvée: a bit of spirng

2011-04-15T14:50:00.008-04:00

This young lady puts me in the mood for spring! Unidentified and undated, holding a bouquet of wildflowers. {click image to view larger}

Some more fresh and lovely:

* red and white in Infinite Variety

* Jillian Tamaki: some new threads for Penguin

Have a wonderful weekend. I have a little trip planned next week, which includes meeting up with a wonderful mystery blogger ~ can you guess?

Cheers!

a royal occasion

2011-04-13T16:52:00.008-04:00

There is not much that gets me out of bed at 5:00am (voluntarily). But, a royal wedding? Most certainly! So, you can be sure that I will be leaping up when my alarm goes off on the morning of April 29. I remember watching Diana's wedding on a little black and white tv in the attic of our house in Maine, shivering in the early morning cool of a New England summer.

So, now Kate and Wills! The official schedule has been released (you may find the details here), and the web is proliferating with royal wedding souvenirs. My personal favorites were designed by Brittany over at The House That Lars Built. She has devised some charming pieces, including a "Royal Wedding Procession" tote and print (above), and a very clever pop-art take on The Ring. Everything is available in her etsy shop. (Oh, and you mustn't miss Brittany's own beautiful wedding!)

So, fess up. . . will you be watching?

(image: courtesy of The House That Lars Built)

growing season

2011-04-11T13:11:00.012-04:00

Government shutdown averted, I may now turn my mind to more gentil pursuits. Gardening! Tender sprouts and top soil are the topics du jour. You may recall last year's roof garden (complete with ugly-ripe tomatoes and urban landscaping)? Well, it was such a huge success with the community that we have received permission from the condo board to grow again. Along with additional pots, a new garden hose, and a BUDGET! I am already dreaming of tasty summer meals garnished with fresh herbs.

While I was in London this past February, I stopped by Petersham Nurseries in Richmond (after my outing with Emile). It was not yet spring, but the greenhouses were filled with seedlings and pots of bulbs. . . and an impressive line up of Wellington boots (would it be too outrageous to tromp around a concrete roof in a pair of Hunters?). Visual inspiration for the growing season to come.

Ahhhh, cooking & gardening:

* you grow girl

* How I Cook (Skye Gyngell's latest cookbook)

* great food from Penguin + Coralie Bickford-Smith

* and Emily Dickinson's herbarium (just to give it all a historical twist)

Happy monday!

trouvée: the capitol

2011-04-08T15:12:00.013-04:00

All I will say. . . is that it is a rough day on Capitol Hill. Without getting into politics.

I received an email earlier today from a photographer in New York I work with frequently. He was surprised to hear I was at my desk: "I thought the government was already broken."

Well, not quite. But almost.

Along with some 800,000 other federal workers, I will be furloughed if a budget agreement is not reached by midnight tonight. Please know that while many Americans don't seem to care if the government is shut down, we are disappointed not to be working.

Have a good weekend.

apple blossoms & anniversaries

2011-04-06T11:02:00.011-04:00

It was just a year ago that a certain gentleman proposed under the apple blossoms at Dumbarton Oaks. That day was sunny and hot, the temperatures in the 90s. Today is just as sunny, but we are more likely to need a scarf and mittens than a sun hat! What a difference a year makes.

Anyway, in honor of this anniversary I thought I would share with you our wedding announcement (which we have at long last mailed off!). It was designed by my friend Tania Lee, an extraordinarily talented illustrator. It was printed in letterpress on creamy white Cranes stationery, and is probably the most divine thing I have ever seen! I simply told Tania that I wanted it to tell the "story" of us ~ and she took it from there. The lettering was inspired by the title page of a Humphry Repton red book (a nod to our Attingham summer school beginnings). Carlyle House was where we married, and the Planters Inn where we honeymooned. And of course Cupid played a little role in all of it. . . ! {click image to view larger}

Huzzah!

spring forward

2011-04-04T15:15:00.006-04:00

I always marvel at the transition from winter to spring. It is the roughest of all I think. Last week was cold and rainy, and positively dreary here in Washington ~ culminating in a wild day of weather on saturday: rain, thunder, hail, wind, torrential downpours, and more thunder, finally ushering in some sun and softer air. Winter is so very stubborn.

Every morning on my way to work, I pass a little Japanese maple tree and a funny pink building (do you remember these raindrops?). This morning I noticed some shiny new leaves and little red buds. So, perhaps we have sprung forward. . . for real!

Simply beautiful (I can't stop staring):

* Kate Headley in India

* Emily Shur in Japan

* and some Saarinen

Happy monday!

trouvée: a little behind

2011-04-01T16:27:00.007-04:00

Happy April, fools! Just a little reminder not to take life too seriously (from an anonymous group in Wisconsin).

Some more fun:

* Queen Victoria's underwear (what scandal!)

* a kiss from Keats

* a balloonist photographer

* and some mug shots (they just don't take them like they used to)

And, if you are in Pittsburgh next week, be sure to take a little time to celebrate Fallingwater's 75th anniversary ~ with a symposium: Private Domains, Public Displays: The Modern House Interpreted, April 5, at the Carnegie Museum (one of my favorite guys is speaking!).

Enjoy.

Have a good weekend. . .

twilight

2011-03-29T18:05:00.008-04:00

Our second evening in Pennsylvania. We walked, through the fields and into the woods. Me and two of my favorite guys. We talked, I can't even remember what about, but it was good talk. And as the sun slipped slowly behind the inky mountains, we headed back to the house. The men gathering kindling for a fire as I followed behind. Twilight is my favorite hour, the moment when you savor the last bit of a good day, before heading home to a warm fire and a good meal.

- - - - - -

Yesterday Emile honored me with a Stylish Blogger award. Since then I have been thinking about style. Webster's Dictionary defines style as "a distinctive manner or custom of behaving or conducting oneself," or "a particular mode of living." I like to live well, and fully. On my own terms, and with the people I love most. I suppose my blog is a reflection of that, and so to have Emile (who I hold in high regard) pay me the compliment of an award, I am truly flattered.

Thank you.

a weekend away

2011-03-28T17:41:00.006-04:00

In the wilds of western Pennsylvania. We drove through snow showers in the mountains, and were greeted upon arrival by temperatures in the teens (it was almost like turning back a season!). But, the rewards were many. Brilliant sunsets, golden fields and indigo hills. Warm fires and good friends, and the sorts of memories you keep in your breast pocket for leaner days.

More tomorrow.

hello spring

2011-03-21T12:01:00.001-04:00

Here in Washington the first full day of spring was ushered in by thunderstorms and a few pink blossoms.

Some bits for the history buffs:

* the Printing Office of Edes & Gill opens next month in Boston
* the map that put Manhattan on the grid
* and the conservation of Jefferson's Bible

Happy monday all.

P.S. Our wedding is over here!! (thank you Kate!)

trouvée: two broads and some bread

2011-03-18T15:15:00.005-04:00

Just couldn't resist ~ because it's friday, and I thought we could all use some levity. Throw in a 1937 Ford and you have a little bit of fabulousness. This one found somewhere, in some box (I can't remember exactly). {click to view larger}

I have been working hard, and thinking hard this week! I am ready for the weekend and a margarita (!!!).

Two nice things:

* Seton Smith has a new show opening
* and Jane Eyre opens in Washington tonight (and I have a date to see it!)

Have a good one. Enjoy.

feeling quiet

2011-03-14T16:50:00.009-04:00

As things go from bad to worse in Japan, I am feeling quiet. My heart aches for everyone involved.

It is hard to know how to help from such a great distance, but there are some small contributions one can make: the American Red Cross is accepting donations for earthquake relief, and Doctors Without Borders has already sent medical teams to the area.

I am sure there are others, so please feel free to add those in the comments section.

silent clouds of stars

2011-03-11T11:32:00.009-05:00

Seas are wild tonight . . .
stretching over
Sado Island
silent clouds of stars

~ Matsuo Bashō (1644-1694)

- - - - - -

Thinking of Japan today.

winter blues

2011-03-08T15:55:00.011-05:00

Now. . . where were we? It has been a while, I know. Still sorting through photographs from England. These bits of blue and green make me happy ~ from this beautiful place. An idyllic refuge on a chilly winter afternoon.

Life is busy, but never too busy for some history:

* Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Vaccines

* the Hawthornes kept a joint diary (their children scribbled in it!)

* and a 350-year-old witch trial diary goes digital

There is more to come from London. And a house tour is in the works.

Cheers!

in like a lion

2011-03-01T16:07:00.006-05:00

Weary of shoveling. . . and very much ready for spring. It was still looking rather wintery up there in Connecticut.

Just stopping by briefly today to say hello and give you a few bits of news ~ what once was lost, now is found:

* Jefferson's last library

* the diary of a royal companion

* and a Bamiyan Buddha may have a second chance

Happy tuesday friends.

cold connecticut mornings

2011-02-25T15:48:00.010-05:00

The gentleman and I were in Connecticut this past week for various work appointments. We headed up over the weekend to stay with my brother and his family, and see good friends. A foot of snow still blanketed the ground, and as soon as we arrived Mother Nature sent along a few more inches for good measure.

Winter mornings begin early in New England, as we hear the thuds of children tumbling out of bed and the smell of coffee wafts up from the kitchen. It is cold out and the sun is barely up. And there is frost on the window panes. I love the way it writes a story across the surface of the glass with wild abandon. Within an hour it is usually gone, but for a glorious moment, it tells quite a tale. When my niece was very little she used to climb in bed with me ~ in the "blue part of the morning" as she called it ~ and talk about the magic of those things. Nowadays she just wants breakfast.

Until monday. . .

Here's wishing you a good weekend.

dreaming of england

2011-02-18T11:40:00.010-05:00

"The budding twigs spread out their fan, To catch the breezy air. . . " (from William Wordsworth, Lines Written in Early Spring, 1798).

I am still sorting through lots of photographs and notes from London, and will have more to share. However, I am off on another work trip next week, so posting may be spotty in the near future. In the mean time, Anglophiles on this side of the pond may be pleased to hear that you don't have to cross an ocean to enjoy a bit of England:

* The Enchantress: Emma, Lady Hamilton, opened this week at the Grolier Club in New York
* Thomas Lawrence: Regency Power and Brilliance, opens next week at the Yale Center for British Art in New Haven
* and fresh off her own trip to London, EEE comes to Washington with “Mirror, Chrome & Gin Fizz: Art Deco in Britain” ~ a talk by Emily Evans Eerdmans, March 1, 7:15pm, at the National Trust for Historic Preservation (presented by the Institute for Classical Architecture and the Royal Oak Society) . . . I have my tickets!

Have a wonderful weekend (a long one for many Stateside).

Cheers!

at ham house

2011-02-17T13:58:00.011-05:00

. . . for real! This past saturday I met up with Emile de Bruijn at the Richmond train station. As the sun struggled to make an appearance through thick, grey clouds, we walked along the Thames to that great Jacobean manse: Ham House. Such a wonderful treat ~ not only to be at Ham again, but to finally meet Emile in person (you may read his post on our visit here). After taking an abbreviated tour of the house (still officially closed for the season) we fortified ourselves with tea, sandwiches and scones at the orangery café, and dished about blogging and books, old houses and gardens. Then, being the diligent bloggers that we are, we walked around to take photographs.

I will refrain from telling you much about Ham, as I have written about it before. You may also read about it on the National Trust web site. However, I will say that it is one of those places where you discover something new with every visit, such is depth and complexity of its history.

A special thank you to Emile for thinking up such a lovely outing!

- - - - - -

On a sad note, my parents lost their 12-year-old shih tzu yesterday. She was stubborn and cranky, but had the heart of a lion. And she will be sorely missed.

for emile

2011-02-15T16:22:00.008-05:00

A little National Trust wabi ~ flowering jasmine blossoms at Ham House.

One of the highlights of my trip to London was a saturday outing to Ham House in Surrey with Emile de Bruijn. The day began with clouds and rain, but ended with bright sun and blue skies. In between touring the house and gardens and drinking tea, we managed to fit in quite a bit of talking. You may read Emile's post about our day here (I feel like quite the cover girl!), and I will have a bit more about our visit in the next few days. In the mean time, I have started adding my photographs to a London set on flickr.

On an unrelated note, I could not let the day pass without mentioning that Jasper Johns received a Presidential Medal of Freedom today. The first studio artist to do so in 34 years.

a valentine

2011-02-14T17:38:00.010-05:00

Just home from rainy London, where even on a chilly grey day, a few lone trees were beginning to show their colors. So, my Valentine for you: a little proof that spring is indeed coming to the northern hemisphere!

More to come this week. In the mean time, here's wishing you lots of love and chocolate.

xo

four years & counting

2011-02-07T13:46:00.004-05:00

Yesterday marked the four year anniversary of JCB! Since my first tentative steps into blogging, I have literally dragged my readers around the world. I have met amazing new friends, seen new places. I have fallen in love and gotten married. All in all, it has been an amazing adventure. Thank you all for following along.

This past weekend, the gentleman and I stopped for lunch with a friend at Eden Center, a Vietnamese enclave in Arlington full of restaurants, grocery stores, nail salons, and coffee shops. The last day of the lunar new year celebration, workers were sweeping up spent firecrackers, and the restaurants were packed with revelers. Guided by our friend, we feasted on Vietnamese crepes, papaya salad, shrimp chips, roasted pork and noodles. On our way back to the car, we spotted the first, tentative, pink blossoms. A little sign of spring, and a fresh reminder of things to come.

Expected next month:

* Founding Gardeners, by Andrea Wulf (the author of The Brother Gardeners)
* and The Paper Garden, by Molly Peacock (I have linked it before, but it bears mentioning again)

I am off on another little adventure. Take care, be well.

See you in a week.

trouvée: une jeune parisienne

2011-02-04T16:41:00.007-05:00

Inscribed in French: "A ma meilleure amie Hélène, / ceci en souvenir d’une jeune parisienne / en regardant cette / photo pense quelquefois / […] et aux bons moments / [...] nous ensemble à Reims – / 20 Avril 1903 / Loéline Adam." Some of the inscribed words are cut off along the edge, so part of the message is missing. But I suppose this is enough to spark your imagination. {click image to view larger}

Some interesting photography:

* portraits by Hellen van Meene
* on the streets with Vivian Maier (via Chris Storb)
* and a little voyeurism. . .

Have a good weekend.

raindrops

2011-02-02T17:16:00.006-05:00

I almost hate to flaunt these raindrops ~ as so many of you are buried in snow right now! Last night I lay in bed listening to the rain, and dreading the ice we had been told would come. But, luckily there was only rain. Lots and lots of cold rain.

To distract you from the world outside:

* this amazing discovery
* a bit of old Boston
* the Cult of Beauty
* and some Dairy Queens

Goodnight. Stay warm.

coconut cream pie & other things

2011-02-01T22:18:00.001-05:00

Time out . . . for dessert! A gorgeous spread put together by a few good friends to celebrate our nuptials. A belated wedding shower. The theme ~ can you guess it? Yep. . . books & booze! With a side of coconut cream pie.

We are truly spoiled.

We have enough books, wine, Scotch, Port, and sherry to get us through this long, cold winter (and very likely the next).

Thank you friends.

xo

(photo taken on my iPhone, using shakeitphoto)

trouvée: joie de vivre

2011-01-28T21:20:00.001-05:00

This photograph just makes me smile ~ such great spirit! A recent acquisition, with no date or inscriptions.

So many good things, so little time:

* The Diary at the Morgan
* Stieglitz, Steichen and Strand at the Met
* Marin Watercolors in Chicago
* and a little Eye Wonder !

My friends, here's wishing you a happy, cozy weekend.

Be well.

cold weather cooking

2011-01-27T17:46:00.004-05:00

Ahhhh, old man Winter. You are so harshing my mellow! However not to be completely outdone by cold and ice this past weekend, the gentleman and I decided to have a little fun in the kitchen. Making good on my promise to to be more adventurous on the fungi front, I bought a box of mushrooms at the market on sunday. And the gentleman turned it into wild mushroom risotto. Divine! We served it up with a salad of delicate Boston lettuce and fresh Texas grapefruit, dressed with a simple vinaigrette. Then paired it with a good Italian Pinot Grigio. Yummmmm.

Some other culinary inspiration:

* a rosé in winter (yes!)
* beets and blood orange
* and tomato jam from The Blue Chair Jam Cookbook (this is what I am going to do with next summer's tomato harvest)

And before I forget, Chris Storb's wonderful blog about Mount Pleasant has moved here!

From my igloo to yours ~ cheers!

a winter walk II

2011-01-20T21:47:00.005-05:00

January, quiet, quiet. Even time seems frozen with inactivity. The gentleman has been hankering for a house tour (me too, for that matter). Perhaps a virtual tour will suffice for now? Hmmmm. . . time to start making plans for springtime outings.

A few interesting tid bits:

* The Hellcat
* Oliver Twist's workhouse

* and The Gift Outright ~ Robert Frost for JFK (and a Dedication, never heard)

Be well.

Stay warm.

a winter walk I

2011-01-18T22:22:00.003-05:00

Hello tuesday! A cold icy day, following a long, cozy weekend. Household chores and paperwork consumed most of our energies. We also spent some time rearranging our library, and contemplating a cataloging system. Oh, and setting up our new computers. (!!!) After 10 years of service, I finally put my old MacBook to rest (yes, you read that correctly, ten years). We also invested in a MacBook Air for traveling (although we have found it rather nice for watching movies in bed, ahem).

Yesterday afternoon, after two solid days of housekeeping, we thought a little fresh air might be in order and headed out for a walk along the old C&O canal. It was so cold that our noses froze after about 5 minutes. We persevered for a while longer however, and enjoyed the quiet calm of the winter landscape.

To be honest, I think the best part of our walk was coming home to a warm, clean apartment.

trouvée: two girls

2011-01-14T23:54:00.003-05:00

Other than the fact that I found these two anonymous ladies in the same box (and that they have similar paper borders), there is really no reason to think they belong together. I just feel that they do. They don't appear to be related, but then who knows. Each is wonderfully striking in her own way. {click to view larger}

Perhaps of interest:

* Charles Ryskamp: a life of collecting
* and a second season for Downton Abbey !!!

A quiet weekend of house chores and healing is in store for me and my gentleman. Until next week. . . cheers!

mid winter days

2011-01-13T12:49:00.008-05:00

We escaped the worst of yesterday's east coast storm, and woke up to just over an inch of snow. Picturesque, but hardly treacherous.

My cold seems to be waning, and I now am turning my mind to thoughts of cooking. Every year I tend to select a food item to perfect ~ last year quiche, the year before frittata (I believe I single handedly kept the local egg farmer in business). I know I have toyed with the idea before, but this is: The Year of the Mushroom. I am not talking about those garden variety grocery store mushrooms. I am talking serious wild mushrooms. Now, I don't plan to start foraging (never fear) ~ there is an intriguing enough selection at the local farmers market. I'll start there. And in the mean time, I am dying to get my hands on a copy of The Wild Table!

Funny thing is, when I was a kid, I despised mushrooms. . .

Cheers!

on birthdays

2011-01-11T16:00:00.015-05:00

These two photographs were taken the day after the blizzard, on my birthday. I spent most of the morning nursing my cold, but late in the afternoon the gentleman insisted we take a drive. The wind was blowing snow over the roads, filtering the late-day sun in the most extraordinary way.

We ended up at a local antiques mall, known more for its piles of junque and used books than for fine antiques. Housed in an old chicken barn, the place is a family favorite and has yielded some real treasures over the years. With only 45 minutes before closing, we quickly scanned the booths, not expecting to find much. But then, out of the corner of his eye, the gentleman spotted the loveliest bird cage Windsor chair, c. 1810. The price was right (plus the 20% after-Christmas discount) ~ so happy birthday to me! Our first joint acquisition of a piece of furniture. After some research, the gentleman believes it to by Samuel Gragg of Boston, almost identical to this chair.

Exciting furniture finds aside, I have generally celebrated my birthdays without much fanfare. It is nice to have a day you can call your own, when you can selfishly revel in doing nothing. Sandwiched between Christmas and the New Year, my birthday is generally lost in the shuffle. Friends often apologize for passing it by, but honestly, I really like the quiet.

winter days

2011-01-10T12:30:00.011-05:00

I always plan to take on so much in January. Thank you notes. Over-ambitious reading lists. Catching up on emails to friends. Organizing the apartment. Here it is the 10th and I have done none of it. I am surrounded by a pile of tissues, and the gentleman is flat on his back with a fever. However, Lisbeth Salander has been keeping me company, as well as the residents of Downton Abbey (I am completely engrossed!).

For you Anglophiles:

* don't you just love a good mystery?

* The Gardens of English Heritage (a favorite wedding gift)

* and Thomas Lawrence visits Yale in February

Thank you for kind all your wishes on my last post! I am on the mend, slowly, slowly.

P.S. There are more blizzard photographs in my winter set on flickr.

cold

2011-01-07T13:10:00.001-05:00

The last of the blizzard images. I promise.

A chest cold is getting me down, so I think it will be a quiet weekend. But, for those of you feeling more sprightly, the Washington Winter Antiques show promises to be quite a diversion (be sure to check out the sunday morning appraisals session)!

Have a good one. . . and be well.

the snow

2011-01-06T17:05:00.007-05:00

It sifts from leaden sieves, / It powders all the wood. . .

(Emily Dickinson)

Waking up to a blizzard in the early hours of December 27 (the top image taken at 6:47 am). An extraordinary phenomena of nature to be sure.

Some additions to the winter reading list:

* Ape House, by Sara Gruen

* The Forgotten Garden, by Kate Morton

* and White Heat, by Brenda Wineapple (which I found quite by accident at the Book Thing last fall)

Good night, and happy reading.