I am a pathological re-decorator. Just like me old ma, I am constantly moving things around the house, swapping out pillows and rugs, changing my hair and just about any aspect of my physical surroundings that are up for grabs.
So does it come as a surprise that I am introducing some design changes to the website? The self-proclaimed queen of “Less is More” has implemented that very rule in the re-design of the website. The important things stayed intact, but I simplified, cleaned up a bit and tried to make your experience more organized and easy to navigate. Let me know what you think. Nothing is written in stone. With me, you may be seeing this same post again in the future…
One of my favorite things to do is browse consignment antique stores. It doesn’t bother me one bit to buy other people’s cast-offs. In fact, I love it. Especially when they come with a story. Such as the two scorched bamboo ottomans my mom scored for me in Palm Beach at the Madoff Estate Sale. After some Schumacher re-upholstery and a visit from my energy healer to clear any bad karma– they were good to go. And for less than $300 a piece!
Today I visited one of Boston’s best consignment shops: Boston Consignment in Needham, MA, searching for a few well priced odd case goods for a client and perhaps something for me, too…
The owner, Sheila has an eye like a hawk, and is known to turn away wares that don’t meet her business model—which is only re-selling high end, brand name or important pieces. She visits Park Avenue condos, Back Bay brownstones and well known design studios—meeting anyone from ninety year old Aunt Ethel (or her daughter—) to working designers in search of the best of the best—cast offs—that is. I always find something and today was a good score:
1. A pair of great looking Tang Horses for a buffet or chest | 2. A black lacquer Bungalow 5 Jacqui Chest that could go anywhere | 3. An enormous red chinoiserie cabinet—that needs tall ceilings | 4. A massive Majolica bronze and ivory ginger jar that would be a knock-out on a spare foyer | 5. And the piece-de-resistance, a turquoise Miriam Haskell key pendant
Now, guess what I walked out with….?
I am on day 4 of being without power. No hot water, food, light, nothing. After schlepping to Target, Home Depot and Lowes in search of battery operated lanterns (of course they are sold out), I found myself in my loaner car (a whole other story) cursing in front of my daughter. It was at that moment, at that stop light that I looked to my right at the REI on the corner, and said to myself, “it’s worth one last shot”.
Once inside, I entered a strange universe of self sufficiency products I never knew existed. I guess they would be known as camping supplies… (not like I would know). Four flashlights that attach to the head, a battery operated iPhone charger and a new BFF (Chuck) later, it seems I am ready to go home for the night. Even if I am not the happiest camper….
Update: August 30, 2011
It’s hard to find inspiration in the dark. I was at the computer beginning to write when the lights went off early Sunday. It’s Monday at 9 pm, and I sit in my dark bedroom on my draining IPhone—with Trudie, the poodle on my bed and a battery operated lantern my friend brought over. The family is at a hotel, but they refused to take Trudie, and I don’t roll without my poodle, so here we are, another quiet night in the dark together.
I am not really thinking about the sort of things I write about each day in this blog, but more about how much the small things matter. Like being together, sharing a meal at home, snuggling in bed watching bad reality tv, and having showered and looking and smelling presentable. Sometimes darkness brings these things to light… I’ll be back as soon as I can. Thanks for being patient and checking in!
August 29, 2011
Well, this is my personal worst, and I’d say I am in pretty good shape, considering the scope of this hurricane’s wreckage. No power and a purple plum tree down. Could be worse. Thoughts go out to those who suffered more.
Be back online soon.
XO –Katie
