rachel ashwell is one of my big influences on the road to minimalism. it might seem unlikely that the woman who is known for ruffles and roses could point me in this direction, but it's true. moving to california in 1998 and seeing her store, buying every magazine with an article about her, reading her books…magic to me! we had a little two bedroom apartment with beige carpet, cream walls, and an orange tree shading the kitchen and dining area. we owned a smooshy denim couch and no kitchen table. there was more space than decor, but rachel told me that was ok. she said to wait until i found just the right thing- no fillers, just patience.
i stayed at home to be with jo, so we had said goodbye to my nursing salary 18 months prior. mr. jane's non-profit work provided purpose and answered calling, but did not provide much in the way of money. rachel's inspiration gave me specifics to look for at the amazing rose bowl flea market..one treasure at a time. i would head out in the dark and arrive back home, in time to go to church on those exciting sunday mornings. rachel was my guide and i was lit up with inspiration.
this week i read rachel ashwell's new book, the world of shabby chic, and the magic is still there. along with the story of rachel's love affair with shabby chic are many inspiring photos of homes i'd love to explore. i especially liked seeing her daughter's little house in venice, california furnished with an artistic, bohemian eye. pamela anderson's modern home looks gorgeous filled with white and santa monica light.
shabby chic, to me, is more than a style; it is a way of life. it is beauty in imperfection, treasured age, and less allowing the chosen to shine. to me, shabby chic is my california…white denim, chippy paint and sand between your toes.
love,
jane
i stayed at home to be with jo, so we had said goodbye to my nursing salary 18 months prior. mr. jane's non-profit work provided purpose and answered calling, but did not provide much in the way of money. rachel's inspiration gave me specifics to look for at the amazing rose bowl flea market..one treasure at a time. i would head out in the dark and arrive back home, in time to go to church on those exciting sunday mornings. rachel was my guide and i was lit up with inspiration.
this week i read rachel ashwell's new book, the world of shabby chic, and the magic is still there. along with the story of rachel's love affair with shabby chic are many inspiring photos of homes i'd love to explore. i especially liked seeing her daughter's little house in venice, california furnished with an artistic, bohemian eye. pamela anderson's modern home looks gorgeous filled with white and santa monica light.
shabby chic, to me, is more than a style; it is a way of life. it is beauty in imperfection, treasured age, and less allowing the chosen to shine. to me, shabby chic is my california…white denim, chippy paint and sand between your toes.
love,
jane
RSS Feed