It was Summer in Memphis in the photo above…a few years ago. I’m guessing that my niece Sharon (left) and I were about 3 and 5 at the time. She is my oldest sister’s only child and we grew up more like sisters. If you’ve read my other blogs, then you’ve read about our adventures.
Sharon is an artist and an amazing interior decorator. I wish she were closer so she could help me decorate this apartment. In a way, she does help for I have three of her wonderful “snow” paintings. After the recent move, I couldn’t find the largest one. I searched and searched – finally during the “work party” on Saturday, I found it! I was so relieved and happy to see it.
I hung the paintings yesterday on either side of the fireplace. It felt a lot more like home then.
The top painting below is an original watercolor by well-known Memphis artist, Lafayette Ragsdale that I purchased years ago. I’m sure I couldn’t afford one of his originals now. The other three watercolors are by my precious niece. (I have no idea why that smudge appeared on the photo – there’s nothing on the glass!)
I have now been here for three weeks – making progress but still boxes to unpack! Will eventually post pics when I’m a little further along but here you see the result of the multitude of book boxes – unpacked! I never feel at home until I can see my books! And, yes, those are cookbooks on the lower half of the left shelf – there is also a bookcase of cookbooks in the kitchen!
7 Comments
Christine
Wow, Sharon is so talented! It’s lovely to see you settling in, and your books look as if they have been there forever. Enjoy the process of creating a new home, Dianne!
judy morabito
Books always make a room “warm up”, don’t they? Looking good Dianne.
Karen
I grew up with my Uncle being only 5 years older than I. That happens in large families, doesn’t it? How beautiful her paintings are. They remind me of the paintings of Eric Sloane. Your bookshelves are wonderful and I love that half of them are cookbooks! I love cookbooks, too. I have a wonderul old beautifully illustrated cookbook by the woman who founded Pepperidge Farms. That has to be my favorite. Your apt. is starting to look like ‘home’. I really like your fireplace. xx
Tom @ Tall Clover Farm
Love the paintings, your new place and the new look of the blog. You are burning on all cylinders! Congrats on such a handsome and beautifully appointed nest.
BrendaTN
Found your new website. Enjoying reading it. Will check back to read of your new adventures.
tanna
Oh, Dianne! I love that first photo of you and your niece!! Precious. I understand the joy of being surrounded by the written word… and art that speaks to your heart. Your niece is good! Glad you are getting settled! =)
grace
look at all those books! what an impressive collection, dianne. also, your mantel looks lovely! 🙂