charlotte's brocante

An ode to Repetto

2012-02-08T19:50:00.000-08:00

I interrupt this all important post to tell you all Charlottes Brocante is coming to town the last week end of February or the first week end of March.It depends how fast my friend Simply Chateau Shirley ships the rest of my boxes. No hurry Shirl ......no Hurry .

I have a thing for ballet.Love to watch it. I collect antique ballet costumes. I love everything about it.Love it.Love it.Love it. Love it.
The window was absolutely stunning. Full of pink pointe shoes .They were all laying this way.............
and that way.Just a few photos of the window display no temptations. After all I am not in the market for pointe shoes.
Then I went around to the other side of the window and there they were . Not pink not purple not grey sparkling repetto flats.Before I knew it I had them on ....40 and a half the perfect size.
Of course they had a not pink not purple not grey bag minus the sparkles and matching wallet.I will tell you this much..............they makes the grey Oregon days a little brighter.

The Painting

2012-02-07T18:31:00.000-08:00

This is one of the most thoughtful sweet places in Paris I have ever been.The shop keepers name is Carole.She is gentle, soft spoken and kind.
Her store is at 4, rue de Bourbon le Chateau in the heart of Paris.

She has an incredible eye for detail and brings home chandeliers like this.............

.....and never used bottle brushes on a wire with a 18th century gold fragment hanging from it.Rough and Luxe for sure.Do you notice the large numbered weathered hutch filled to the brim with Astier dishes?The dishes are scattered around with the old and look right at home.
She has a wall of the candles just as big as the Astier store.She gave me one to take home.
If you look at the top of this photo you will see the word Mantes.That is the name of the candle I brought home with me.The generosity of the story that went with it was just as much the treasure as the candle.She asked if I knew Hillary Clinton.I said yes, and in her slow but sure english took the time to tell the story how the candle is named after a place is France that is not so beautiful and Hillary bought some as a symbol to share with people back home.Carole thank you for being your thoughtful self and making my trip magique.Oh and by the way I got the painting .http://quakerconcept.blogspot.com/ This is her blog and you can get to her online store.Who doesn't need a little Paris fix now and then. Perhaps and Astier mechanical pencil or scented eraser like the St Honore candle.Better yet get the candle

Bonjour Paris

2012-02-06T01:50:00.000-08:00

My last night in Paris I had a stroll around place concord and the Jardin tulleries.It was bitterly cold and equally as beautiful .I could not feel my fingers and my face or my feet for that matter but what I could feel in my heart warmed me in a way only God can. Peace. A place with my God alone but not lonely. Amazed that he knows exactly how many times my heart will beat until the day he calls me home.Content. Happy to be going home to my busy life. Home to my Jeff.
The statues against the dark sky took my breathe away.
I had this all encompassing moment of awe for what God has made for us to enjoy.
The enchanting details ..........................
Each one more intricate than the next.
Things so spectacular from any angle they look fabu.
I bid Paris Adieu for the ninth time.
The cafes were done for the night and so was I. This is how my trip ended.Tomorrow I will show you how it began.

Faded Charm is the give away winner!!

2012-01-16T17:56:00.000-08:00

My trusty daughter Charlotte did the drawing for me and picked that sweet Kathleen from Faded Charm. And on Monday only three months later.Ha Ha I think.....Sometimes you have to laugh or you will cry.

Trust me I know from experience.........Kathleen please send me your address.....................

To the rest of you read on should you wish to find out the happenings of the Falconer, Behrmann, Culver, Bray and Ballentine bunch.

Well to start with we are all fine.No health issues or any such things like that.But the adjustment of taking in two special needs kids has just about knocked me down for the count. It all started with our girl Kylie that we took in about 6 years ago. Both of her parents had died and it was a great fit from the get go.Even though she struggled we made our way through it and she graduated and went on to college with she did in three years and moved herself to Haiti were she is thriving as a missionary.This really opened up our heart to helping kids.So this summer in July when a boy who went to school with my son needed a place we jumped on the opportunity.When Vincent needed a home a month later.We did the same thing.How could we not.Both kids come from families of addicts.The pain of the treatment they have received from parents is something we never expected to deal with.Throw in some adhd and bipolar and you have a situation that you cannot get your arms around.And Vincent being a senior in high school but only enough credits to be half way through his freshman year ooh la la another story altogether. After meeting with his councilors they said it would be near impossible for him to graduate.Can I just tell you as of this post he will graduate on time.We only have one credit recovery class left.That being said,you can only imagine how many hours of homework we have done.All weekend every weekend and 4-6 hours on the week nights.Then you throw in a dad who is going to jail and helping the child deal with it................All this said,I have been very bust to say the least. My blog and flea market have taken a back seat so I can take care of my circle of beautiful people God has trusted me with. This message is not to complain or say look at me what I am doing.This is really to say with God all things are possible.From the depths of my heart I have seen it.The abundant mercy he has poured out on our family is more than we deserve.He is in the business of changing lives.I have had the privilege of watching it come to pass with these children in our home.I count it as a huge blessing that God would love me so much to put me in very uncomfortable circumstances that he could be glorified for being the good loving God he truly is.He has grown my family in ways that are so uniquely beautiful and mystifying to me.

Yes, I will be having my flea market the end of February. All my goods have safely arrived from Shirley and will be awaiting new homes.I am off Thursday to Paris and then meeting up with Shirley,Mark and her daughter Kate in Venice for three days.This is not a scheduled trip just cheap airfare and the need to purchase a delicious painting I found .Yes my husband is that nice.You cannot have him.....especially you Shirley girly as I know he has a smallish crush on you.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx000000000000000000000000000000000

Dare I say I should have a drawing when I get home to celebrate my 9th trip to Paris.We shall see Mon Amis,we shall see. Arrivederci and Revoir.

Charlottes Brocante creamy dreamy giveaway

2011-10-12T13:46:00.000-07:00

What happens when you take one French document.....................................
whip in one French song book........

and fold in a old perfume label with a little card of lace from the old Samarataine department store of Paris?
You get a recipe for a sweet creamy confection in honor of Charlottes Brocante 8th time to Paris and all parts of France surviving it intact,even going around the arc de triomphe circle with Parisian drivers.It remains to be seen if I will make it a 9th time. Who are we kidding, I will probably go in April.Overseas people are welcome. Just enter your name to win. I will pick a winner on Monday.Bonne Chance Mon Amis.

Brocante and Bronchitis both start with b.One is more fun than the other

2011-10-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

This is what it is like to peer into a French brocante.Little boxes of precious things on tables and beneath them.Things are thrown out in no particular order. They are none the less perfectly imperfect.
This delights my soul .I just feel so much gratitude to be able to do this and share it with you.
Tiny boxes that say charming things like plumes and rosaries made of nacre (mother of pearl) sweet little tiny thoughtful things. These are things I adore. And you all as well. I will be having a give away to celebrate my trip.It was very difficult with lots of stress and sickness but in the end beauty reigns. I felt so close to God while I was struggling . He just has a way of making all things right..... Bronchitis is on the mend....Thank you Jesus for antibiotics.

D. Porthault for new towels and stolen fabric from Simply Chateau

2011-10-08T21:27:00.000-07:00

This is my new bathroom floor that my husband finished right before I left for Paris.
I already knew I was going to use this beautiful sheet with my monogram AM and crown for the shower curtain. I spent time in Paris first trying to figure out the towels.Should I go nice and reasonable or nice and not so reasonable. I was thinking nice and reasonable. I would get my towels on the way back to the airport..........Then fast foward to my Shirleys house..........Because of my kidney infection I spent alot of time in her bathroom and just happened to have a tile in my pocket to use to match some towels for my bathroom when I spied this delicious piece of toile.
I wrapped myself up in and came down stairs and showed her the perfect match it was.I caught her in a weakened state and off she sent me home with it. I am having some curtains made with scalloped tops. ooh la la.
This is late 1800s and was a bed cover. It has quivers ............and
cherub type people with titan like scenes with horses and banners and the likes. It is amazing.

Then I got the nice towels but not reasonable.I tried to resist but I could not.The shade of blue

was more than I could take.If you have time you should go to there web site.Everything is handmade .

http://www.dporthaultparis.com/www/

Quilted in a diamond shaped pattern....................
piped with white scalloped to an inch of its life.
add in a 18th century Jardinere for bath salts.........................
and a sweet little French dolls dresser and I think I am on my way to a tres jolie salle de bain.

Pink Parfait windows of Paris

2011-10-04T14:24:00.001-07:00

Pink books,
Pink teapots,
more pink books..............................
a sneaky white tea pot with pink books.Why? If you have to ask you will never understand.If you are smiling reading this you already know.Let your heart sing as you think about the pink windows of Paris today,I know I will.

Presenting Katie Wells the beautiful daughter of my Shirley

2011-10-01T16:27:00.001-07:00

She is even more adorable than I can speak of and she sells on ebay.Yeah us! I just spent some time with her in Paris and had to show you some of the items that she truffled out while we were together.You will have to wait awhile for Charlottes Brocante to get your local fix so this is the next best thing! Since I have been sick in bed it has given me some time to fixate on all the things I left in France last week.She likes what we like ladies.Lots of creamy dreamy fripperies from the city of lights. I think I will take one of each,I'll race you there! I am so eyeing the goods.I know self control should reign but I doubt it will.It is so fun to find people who like what you like that is French and they speak English so if you have any questions it makes it easier.Also she keeps her shipping low which makes it more practical to buy.I think this is the link on how to find her on ebay below.Sweet little froufrou sells under cafe de paris. Happy shopping and or browsing to you all. I will be back soon to show photos of my trip.

http://myworld.ebay.com/cafe-de-paris/?_trksid=p4340.l2559

These are a few favorites of mine from her auctions this week.Can't you imagine those buttons sitting in a sweet dish or inside of the jewelry makers transport box? A little piece of art.Mmmmmmmmmmmmm. How about the books?The books?The books?I cannot ever get enough books..............EVER!!! The only practical thing I should buy is the thermometer so I can watch the local temperature plummet :( If you buy or just look- it is a little something fun to do this weekend. Bonne chance Mon Amis (Good luck my friends)

Home from Paris with a trip to the Hospital in the Normandy countryside

2011-09-30T10:51:00.000-07:00

If you have to go to the hospital in France you can look forward to a sweet little sign that says water closet.That makes it kinda special.Right?
Some things are the same for a check of a kidney infection in France as well at the states.Wipe front to back and potty in this little cup.They do put the date in French numbers which I myself think adds a little ooh la la.
And then there is the pink toilet paper.They really know how to treat a guest, right? Just when you think it can't get any better they throw in the pink tp. I will be back for sure. Only 8 euros 10 for pain killers and antibiotics.They were much nicer than the dentist at 8 am the day after I got home with an infection in one of my crowns? Did you know you can get a infection under a crown? Well,you can and now you know.The nice endodontist will relieve you of your pain and 1539.00 dollars at the same time. I guess if you add in the airfare with the antibiotics it is a wash. But in Normandy I got free English entertainment of a mad Brocante women name Shirley.We did go to the Brocante before the hospital.......You know first things first!

Where does your road take you?

2011-09-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow all roads lead me to Paris once again. 8th time..............butterflies in stomach.......Where will the roads take me? Plane.................metro...................bus...............I will arrive . As the Eiffel tower comes to view I will thank Jesus for another trip.

Charlottes Brocante behind the scenes

2011-09-12T09:25:00.000-07:00

My name is Amy and I am the person behind Charlottes Brocante. It is named after one of my daughters.This came from a dream I had to go to France twice a year and you have made it happen.I would try to say thank you in another more meaningful way bit I simply have no words.You have brought so much joy and friendship into my life.

I have 6 children.Yes,I said 6.At this time last year I had 4. My precious adopted daughter Kylie graduated from college in May and is now a missionary in Haiti. I miss her terribly but she is in laying her life down to serve Jesus and is in his will and so in this life I will miss our everyday life of talking and being together for all the eternal work going on. Two year olds in the street are having dinner now.She is one of my heroes. Over the past several months two children from our church had parents that are not able to take care of them because of various addictions.They now reside with us. This has been such a difficult time but the beauty out weighs it all.One of the children we have was using a hole outside to go to the bathroom. 2011 in the united states. Not okay. My husband agrees that this one needs to come home.

My husband .He is amazing. He makes me feel safe and beautiful and loved. Last night as we sat around the table for dinner I looked around at my newly expanded family. I have only had my table filled up for family dinners with beautiful ironed linens and silver.That table was more beautiful than any other time I had ever been there. Paper towels and plates. After dinner my husband prayed for each of the children per there request of what they needed in life.It is such a tender moment I will treasure in my heart to bring out when times are hard.

I am not writing this to say look what we are doing. I am writing this to say look at what God is doing. Everything we do is because he has allowed us to do it. On my own I am selfish and broken.With him I can do all things. Because of his grace for me I can give it to others. The same goes for love and compassion and every other good gift...........they all come from above. He is growing us and our children to love the things of him. I wish every one of you that read this blog would know the Jesus I know. The loving unconditonal no matter what you do or have ever done Jesus.The Jesus who numbers the hairs on your head and knows everything about you Jesus.The Jesus who loves you Jesus who says you have been adopted ,accepted and redeemed Jesus. The Jesus who longs to calls you his own and created you in his image Jesus.The Jesus that says, "One day I will wipe every tear from your eyes.There will be no more pain no more suffering and no more dying "Jesus. He will rock your world this Jesus if you say yes to him.

So that is Charlottes Brocante Amy behind the scenes Amy. I love Jesus , my family and the Brocante in that order.Shirley, Janet and my Kims are up there too in no paticular order.It is raining in Paris.I can't wait to let it fall on me.

Simply Chateau Shirley is having a online Brocante and I will be the first in line(I mean online)

2011-09-10T21:50:00.000-07:00

EXVOTO mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.

I can never get enough playing cards.

My friend Shirley is doing her first ever online Brocante sale.What makes it really exciting is that she has never done this before. She is restoring her Chateau and in the process is going through all her armoires to empty all of her little bits she can't pass up and does not want to move to the new wing, and are too small for ebay (I offered to

do it when I come on Thursday but she didn't fall for it.) She sells on Ebay and for

those of you watch her auctions you know you have to be sitting by the computer to win.(or not win as I get all the whiny emails asking me what to do) This is going to be fun as there is no bidding,All items are buy it now and it is yours.

IF YOU LIKE DOCUMENTS, MILLENARY, LOTO NUMBERS JEWELRY BITS,FRENCH PLAYING CARDS,MEDALS OR ANYTHING FRENCH AND DELICIOUSLY SRUMMY HEAD ON OVER.I AM COUNTING THE DAYS UNTIL WEDNESDAY.GOING TO SHIRLEYS BROCANTE IS AS GOOD AS GOING TO FRANCE.I SHOULD KNOW I HAVE BEEN IN THOSE ARMOIRES!!!!!MY HAND STILL STINGS FROM WHEN SHE SLAPPED IT WHILE I WAS TRYING TO SNEAK IN. I WILL ACTUALLY BE IN FRANCE THIS WEEK BUT I WILL NOT BE MISSING THIS AS I DO NOT KNOW IF IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN.BELOW IS THE LINK. I WILL BE POSTING SOON ABOUT MY STORE AND SOME AMAZING WOMEN AND WHAT THEY ARE CREATING FOR US TO ENJOY!

WWW.SIMPLY-CHATEAUBROCANTE.BLOGSPOT.COM

Charlottes Brocante is today Mon Anges!!!

2011-09-09T00:24:00.000-07:00

If you are reading this you have made it to September 9th and all your long patient suffering has brought you to the Brocante!!!! I will see you all at 6 (and a few of you crazies at 4- you know who you are :) Be sure to wear sunscreen if you must perch outside the store..........Oh and Did I tell you I am going to Paris next week? ...........Well,I am so consider yourself told.........I also have a little secret about my friend Shirley........................I will let that cat out of the hat on Saturday. Or is it cat out the bag? Either way its coming out. See you tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Charlottes Brocante loves numerotes (numbers)

2011-09-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

How about some tags for keys or bags or whathaveyous?I have doubles of each.Done!!!

Need a house number?Done!!!!
How about 1-20 with little hagners on the back to put on your wine glass for judging your wine.Done!
I simply cannot go by a number while going about the French fleas without picking up everyone I see.The 0-9 guys are for stenciling on grain bags.But you can do whatever you want because I said so.

Another day, another peak at the Brocante......

2011-09-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

Well hello faithful brocante peeps.Only two more days and we have made it!!!! You know how I love to tease, so ..............I thought you might enjoy this chippy peely french sign with swords hanging down for your monday morning viewing pleasure.You can see the letters are most deliciously faded.
And here it is from far away.Would look so good with a Napoleon hat,medailles and flags surrounded by it.(Yeah,I have some of those.)
These three things have made nice and are becoming good friends.Pink and green plus key.Three is no crowd here.
Of course the creamy white cannister stands alone.It is hard being perfect. Al a Prochaine (See you next time) Mas Belles.

Can you believe just three days until Brocante day!!!

2011-09-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

I simply cannot be discret about my amour of the Brocante.Bringing it to you allows me to experience again!!!!!! To touch things like this creamy dreamy sheet music sends me soaring...................
as do these spice jars with original labels.
How about an enamel garden vase turned grey by time........................
and maps in creamy dreamy faded glory that say things like Toulon and...............
Avignon......................
attached to canvas with not grey not black printing on them .They are happy with there age and it shows.
Bonjour Mon Amis. I will be pack to tease more tomorrow and I will see you in three days!!!!

Charlottes Brocante giveaway has a winner :)

2011-09-05T21:35:00.000-07:00

The
winner
is
Debbie!!!!!! A special thank you to my trusty daughter Charlotte for helping me with the drawing. Please send me your address and I will send your treats over the pond! I will be giving the last sneak peaks for Fridays Brocante starting tomorrow.A Bientot!

Charlottes Brocante give away

2011-08-30T22:02:00.000-07:00

What happens when you mix together one French music card, a 19th century French candy box and two darling wrapped in old French document and medal candles? You get one wonderful give away. In celebration of Charlottes Brocante coming to town next Friday, the 9th of September!! I will be back on Labor day to announce a winner. Overseas bidders are welcome.

Last sneak peak of the Brocante for the week

2011-08-26T19:48:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much my sweet angels for stopping by again. I will leave you with a few more sweet things available at the brocante on the 9th.................
Darling candles the french used for there sapin noel (christmas tree) I am thinking a few documents wrapped around would look great.
This 19th century sangsue (leech) jar was used at the hospital for the leeches.They would swim around while they were waiting to get used. They would tie a string around the lip to keep them in. I use it for flowers and bath salts.I love these.
And this champagne basket has a crown. Bonne weekend!!!

What is a girl to do?

2011-08-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

Should you get the pink thread with the .......................................
blue books? Or get the..................................green books and the............................
blue silk ribbons......................or.................................
get all the pink books because pink is the happiest color in the world!!!!!!!!!!!! You have until September 9th to obsess about it.I mean figure it out.

Cinderella Charlottes Brocante style

2011-08-24T12:57:00.000-07:00

The clock strikes 6 and the fairy tale begins(the only difference is you are fighting with your closest friends to rip the clock off the palace wall to take home with you.)
You then make your way over to have a refreshment and realize there isn't any but it is not a total loss.You get some beautiful champagne coasters to sit your glass on when you get home.

Then you see your prince all decked out in his best.....................
complete with tails.You know this is a banner but the love is just the same.You have found the one!!!
After all is done at the brocante you wish you would have got some 19th century candle sticks and.......................
and 19th century candle holders from the Catholic church.But alas you were too busy with the prince and they are all gone. Then from across the room you notice someone has put there bag down...........They haven't even paid for them yet..................Maybe just a peek see..........After all it is your fairytail so it can end however you want:)

Free tips for the French Brocante

2011-08-23T20:59:00.000-07:00

Let me give you a little tip if you are coming to Charlottes Brocante (No, it is not these french tip plates with little boxes on them:)
If you want darling things like the poste boxes in the above pictures...................
that have cute little tags like this........................................
and this...........................
or if you want a French Hotel Key holder numbered 1-26.Come early You know we will give you food and water.If you need the bathroom I am not sure what you will do.We are country folk you know.

Little things for you that make you say ooh la la from the City of lights

2011-08-22T16:53:00.000-07:00

I cannot get enough little boxes from the brocante.They don't have to have anything in them and I will squeal like a crazy cochon(piggy).............
please oh please oh.................. do not get me started about when I find music cards.They are the key to my happiness. Finding these is like finding gold except you do not get rich and they are worth nothing to most people. Maybe they are like fools gold.Well I can tell you this fool loves them.
Again please don't get me started on the bobines of thread.PINK THREAD!PINK THREAD! PINK THREAD!With French makers names etched into the wood.......
then just throw in a few of these little absolute nessecities. Soft blue booklets of paper you burn after you use the toilette................I LOVE THE FRENCH BROCANTE UP TO JESUS AND BACK PLUS INFINITY.THANK YOU JESUS FOR GIVING US ALL THESE THINGS TO ENJOY THIS SIDE OF HEAVEN.YOU ARE THE MOST MAGNIFICENT CREATOR EVER. AND THANK YOU CHARLOTTES BROCANTE PEOPLE FOR LETTING ME BRING IT HOME FOR YOU!!!ooooooooooooooooooooooh laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!

I zinc I adore the Brocante

2011-08-21T22:43:00.001-07:00

Any way you spell it , I just adore the Brocante. Spelling it out with 19th century French letters complete with worm holes begins to show my adoration.
Add some little flourishes with wreathes attached to them..................
then a few 19th century crumbly French zinc wine labels............................................
and four inch French Bottles the shade of the Cote d' azur sitting on a zinc drying bottle rack.............That about covers it for today, I zinc ?

Brocante items are know to get your creative juices flowing............

2011-08-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

The 9th of September cannot come fast enough for me,how about you? How about some hemp towels to make you dream of what to create with them ...Keep them as is.....make pillows.....line a basket.......the list goes on..................
precious images to frame....copy to make jewlery.....or put on bags or make cards......
throw a few of these boucherie tags in a bowl and voila,dinner is served.(If only it was that easy.)
Spools of gold thread........................................just because ....See you tomorrow for more sneak peaks mon belles.

Thoughtful Janet

2011-08-12T10:18:00.000-07:00

This is a snippet of my Birthday gift from my friend Janet. Irreverently holy.. beautiful french... wings...............
thoughtful .magnificent.ribbons.gold.sheer.delight............
These are the things that make me who I am .pleasing. gentle.timeworn..........
Can you even imagine getting such a heavenly something in the mail?I mean look at them!!!!!!!
Add in one branch from her tree complete with petite hummingbird nest with french communion ribbons attached.She threw them out to see if they would use them for the nest and voila, a french bird nest stateside.
mix in one french book from 1674.........................
and fold in one Cire trudon Louise bust
and there you have a French treat good enough to eat....But don't do that.......
I have heard silk ribbons can cause you indigestion.....Merci Merci Beaucoup Mon Ami Janet

Another peak at the Brocante goodies for you mon amis......

2011-08-10T19:28:00.000-07:00

How about some 19th century paint viles with original pigment in them? These are so precious with there french writing on them.
And speaking of French writing, I have few marriage certificates for you.(It's o.k if your already married all you get is the certificate you do not have to take them man.One is enough,non?)

They are the whisper of green that is dreamy like floating on a pastel cloud.Last but not least, some music medals and amitie (friendship) medals to end the tour. Thanks for letting me relive the fun of France twice. Once by going and twice by sharing it with you. I cannot wait till the 9th.

I zinc I will have some fun architectural pieces for you at the Brocante on September 9 6-9

2011-08-08T22:02:00.001-07:00

Any which way you look at it this little zinc piece is fab. A little crown in the shape of a castle. J'aime J'aime J'aime.
How about a little fleur de lis zinc thingy too? Picked in France by moi for vous............
I managed to pick up a garde de manger too.(Oh no the rhyming is starting again...Refer to previous posts)
and a little bit of roof edging for you..........
......and last but not least a couple of cute swirly ques. I will see you all on the 9th.(More teasing to come.)

Don't you just the love the Brocante? It is coming to town the second weekend if September..... Here is a sneak peek from Charlottes Brocante

2011-08-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

AMOUR!!! This is how I feel about the brocante.....These darling letters came to you from France to show you there adoration............
Paintbrushes anyone? These would be sure to bring more color to your life...........
as would this first place plaque for prize Lapins.(rabbits) The soft powder blue paint makes me weak.I also have some of these in green. sighhhhhhhhhh

These French butcher hooks are so charming for hanging torchons(towels) from or...........you could poke people that try to get your brocante goodies. I am just saying.............. Violence is not the answer.(except in extreme cases as this.)

Recipe for a perfect dinner party

2011-08-02T14:10:00.000-07:00

One bouquet of peonies fresh picked from the yard.........................
French silverware place upside down to show of the monograms just so................
place settings from France with crisply ironed napkins showing off the gorgeous crowns.................................
then gently mix with your family and voila, you have the recipe for a perfect dinner party.Bonne Appetit

Have you ever found 5 dozen Pink roses left on porch?

2011-08-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

Well, I have and this is what it looks like!!!!!!!!!!! Beautiful perfection. I mean look at that. Does that not make some of you want to convert to pink as your new favorite color right now?! ! I had to look and take photos until I was forced by reality to put these in some water.My friend Gretchen who is artistic and thoughtful and creative in every way dropped these off with a note that was just as kind and pure. She gets me. She knew what would make my heart swoon.I am still swooning now.That is a gift that keeps on giving to relive again just from a photo and the sweet memories.
One more shot of the darling brown paper tied with raffia.Simply beauty at its finest.
Time for your close up you sweet buds of perfection!! Now it is on your way to...............
enjoy some candlelight and take your place for a time ....
in a bath of fresh water in a giant glamorous french pink soup tureen for your swan song. We were together for two weeks of love and a lifetime of precious thoughts of the kindness of someone named Gretchen...Thank you Jesus for Gretchen and pink rose buds made by your hands.

And the Winners are...................

2011-07-31T15:58:00.000-07:00

My trusty assistant was on "hand" to help me (my husband)
looks like.....................................
North Pal is the first winner...Yeah!!!!!!
and the next winner is................................wait for it......................
White Whispers.......................................... Thanks for playing along with me. Send me your address and I will send out your goodies.Looks like the second week of September for the Brocante.I will tease you starting next week.I am thinking another give away might be in order.

Hooray Hooray it is time for Charlottes Brocante give away...times two! You have one week from today to enter

2011-07-21T21:09:00.000-07:00

You have not one but two chances to win.The give aways are very similar with a small difference.
The first give away has a hemp towel,music card,two seed packets (that I LOVE LOVE so much),a store marker for produce, bonbon (candy labels) and a darling thermos with cup that the Frenchies use to drink with for there health.Those Frenchies are so chic.
The second drawing has the same items but with different bonbon (candy) labels and instead of the thermos......................
you get two cute little price markers from the boucherie ( butchers shop) with movable numbers .They have metal wires so you can poke them into something and they stand up to look at how delicious and cute they are all day long..............The Brocante is indeed coming to town Mon Amis either the end of August or second week of September. If I am going back to France the end of September I better get planning.Thank you for the nice comments and emails you send me.I am very greatful to blog land for people across the pond that stop to say hello.And with that I bid you Adieu

No, I have not been captured by aliens...........Well sort of

2011-07-20T23:39:00.000-07:00

I have not been abducted by aliens but it feels like that sometimes with summer here and 4 kids home.I will be back to blogging this week with my give away and photos from my time in France..............Hope this find you all having a out of this world summer.

How to get to the Brocante and a give away too

2011-06-13T23:23:00.000-07:00

First you need to get good directions ....................
Then ,you need to know how your gonna get there.This little doggy took the stroller to the Brocante......Not a bad idea.
Oh yes and make sure you were comfortable shoes.Or at least make sure you shoes look good.

I WOULD LOVE SOME SUGGESTIONS OF WHAT YOU MIGHT LIKE FOR A DRAWING I WILL BE HAVING FOR YOU WHEN I RETURN.....REMEMBER IT HAS TO FIT IN MY SUITCASE AND NO YOU CANNOT GO(EVEN THOUGH I WISH YOU COULD).Bonjour Ma Belles I will be coming back June 27.Bisous Amy

17 days and it is off to the pinkest place I know...France

2011-05-31T13:08:00.000-07:00

I am longing to go on my way to the place were pink is always in fashion .....I will gaze lovingly on the pink menu to see what looks tres bien(very good)and order up a little sweet something like...
THIS DELICIOUS CONFECTION!!!!
Then I will sit at a pink table and partake as the rest of my pink colored world floats by me.
Yes, that would be a pink crepe paper float going down the middle of Sur La Sorgue. Does it get any better really? Not this side of heaven.Thank you Jesus for fluffy pink goodness.You are the best creator.

I love crowns and one day I will be getting one from a real King!!!!

2011-05-03T17:30:00.000-07:00

I just love little crowns.....They make me so happy ....This one is attached to a mother of pearl shell for the seat.It was originally used to hold watches but now it has a new job holding my rings on the night stand.
These little sweeties are so dear to me. The silver one is from my friend Janet in California. (She and I also have an affection for old wings, I will discuss that someday with photos)
Oh and crowns on sheets.I have it bad. I do.No since to deny it.My friend Shirley is selling some crown sheets on her Ebay sight now. She wrote a little article about it on her blog that was so interesting. I had no idea each crown is specific to a certain aristocrat. They are all different with varying amounts of points and decoration and she has a chart that tells all about them. This is a pillowcase.....
.............................. this one is on a sheet. Are you breathing heavy ?
.................................. this little guy is on a pillowcase of which I have two and a matching sheet.So rare and hard to find.To iron them is to iron a work of art. Hand stitching for someones trousseau all numbered and monogrammed in red on the back made to last a lifetime. Oh yeah the best crown from the king I do not have yet but it is a done deal . His word says," When you have stood the test and the trial , on that day you will receive a crown of life that the Lord has promised for those who love him". It is gonna be good my friends. The best news is you can have one too!!

Cadeaus (gifts) from the North of France......

2011-04-19T16:35:00.000-07:00

Remember when I blogged about Shirley giving me the Ritz Cartlton of Paris Tablecloth when I went to visit her in November? Well Yesterday I went to get the mail and there was a package .Inside a little note read "Dear tartlette,Just a few fripperies for you."And out came two napkins the size of small tablecloths 3 feet by 3 feet across.I was squealing with delight when I saw the other items waiting for me.................
three of the most adorable little bonbon boxes that were filled with candy to celebrate ones Baptism....
Then written on envelope outside it said to look inside the bonbon boxes. One would expect some chocolat or dragees, but this is Shirley we are talking about. Out fell three precious and delightful pins with acanthus leaves and wings on the inside. I have a wing thing so I was beside myself. Little scrummy bits as Shirl would say. You all cannot have any of mine but you can go to Shirls Simply Chateau sight and try to outbid the crazies to get some.This is one battle I wont't have to wage.Lucky me.Thanks Shirley. I love up to Jesus and back plus infinity xxxooo Gladys

Paris in June is tres bien to moi!!!

2011-04-15T17:29:00.000-07:00

June 17th I am going back to France(this will be my 7th time but it might as well be my first for the way it makes me feel :) with my friend Laura. She is having a little french shop on the east side of town ...............
I have my grey striped wool swing coat ready for its christening voyage..........
....and my little pair of wing tips in PINK .....PINK .....PINK....... I will then come back and have my show around August. Then I will go back around the end of September with a show in the spring. I try to go two times a year and usually end up doing the trips close together as to hit the brocantes when they are the warmest. I hope this clears up some of the question people have. All are welcome as it is not invite only.I do not advertise ,just blog about it as time gets closer. I only do it twice a year.I do not have it open again as I only have enough for one show. Thank you so much for all your support and kindness. I will try to get more this trip so there will be enough to go around even for you who get in last.Please ask me any questions or requests that you have and I will do my best to help you with it.

Merci !Merci!! Merci !!!

2011-04-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank all of you so much for coming to the Brocante Thank you for allowing me to do something I love. Thank you for allowing me to relive it again with you....................It was fun to see some new people as well as all the regulars. Everyone a lover of French trinkets.
I am not gonna lie that you all scare me just a little.(in a good way) When six comes I open the door and run....
and you are not far behind me.......... getting your Brocante fix.

The treats you bring are so appreciated because they are so personal to me. The color pink was plentiful .To know that someone would take the time to make lavender infused cupcakes with tulip wrappers complete with handmade card in French........
as well as a stop for pink macaroons and flowers .....It makes you stop and realize how thoughtful people are. These two ladies drove from Washington state to be here. Robbie and Robin you are delightful more than words can say.
Then there is my friend Kim. She has one of the most endearing ,charming and dreamy candy stores I have ever seen. If you read USA today they wrote her up as one of the top 10 candy stores in the nation. Needless to say the chocolates are delicious all handmade.I am going to do a whole blog about her store sometime. I Love you like a sister doll.
Then there are the other angels in my life. Audrey is such a sweet gentle soul. She has been coming to the store since the beginning .I have had the occasion to spend some time with her and she is the real deal. This little rosewater hand soap is so precious and has a little bit of pink on it. Love it and her too!
Then there is my Heidi girl. Precious and loving with a vibrant passion for life . A artist and maker of gorgeous jewelry called Seven Larks .I think it is available on Etsy. She takes elements of mother of pearl from old rosaries and medals mixed with gems. Incredible..... Along with this precious little ornament she gave me there was a precious note on the box that reads: Merci for bringing a little bit of France to us all . I say merci for bringing joy to my life. And not just a little.

April 8th 6-9 is Charlottes Brocante Day at the Historic Barlow House 24670 S. Hwy 99e Canby Oregon.......Plus drawing number 2

2011-04-07T23:17:00.000-07:00

Yeah !Yeah !Yeah! It is almost Friday and we have made it to Charlotte's Brocante yet again. You know I will have the sign out waiting to welcome you .I really do get so excited to see all of you......................................
The flowers are spilling over in excitement waiting for their people to come admire them.................
Things are looking tres bien from the left......
and to the right..........................So much deliciousness it should be illegal but not really.
Oh yeah, I did get around to doing the second part of the drawing .....a day late but better late than never right?........The winner can have one of these books or the laundry tag ,music card and document I gave away last time...... their pick.
Again watch my fabulous skills as I left handed draw out of the bag as I snap the photo....
and the winner is.....................................
Design Chic.Please let me know your choice .Happy Brocante Day to all. We are gonna have some fun. I cannot wait to see you tomorrow. Bonsoir Mes Belles

Freshman Party,Funeral and forgotten drawing........But do not forget about the Brocante Friday.Yiiiiiiippppppeeeee!!!

2011-04-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry for being tardy at the blog thing as I have had a little bit going on.I will be pulling that second winner tonight for the drawing and posting what the they will receive.In the mean time I thought I would tease you with a few more trinkets from France. Friday is coming up fast....I got a cute message from a certain someone on Monday saying she only had to go to sleep four more times and then it was brocante day.You blog buddies are adorable. These are absolutley precious .The soldiers would drink their vodka in these and when they were done they would put them on their shoulders Epaulettes while they would march. That is the story I got from the flea market and thought it was joke. Then when I got looking at my book on French 18th century style it says the same thing. I think they are wonderful with seasonal things in them or with candles near by they cast a beautiful light.They are marked Henri Marie and that is just fabu to me.
Also via my 18th century stlye book are these incredible porcelain limoges pans. Amour ....
Back by popular demand are a few early French handwritten music cards.aaaaah :)
And a few sweet champagne baskets to hold whatever your little heart desires.

And the Winner is.........

2011-03-31T19:17:00.001-07:00

Fourteen little names ready for the drawing...................
They all hopped in the bag hoping to be the queen..........................
I gave them all a good shake and went in for the grab....................
wait for it.....................
Yeah, the delightful Kim from Enchante candy store (the cutest candy store in the world which I will blog about one day) is the winner.But my friends who did not win ,all is not lost. I have decided to have one more give away as this is too much fun. I will post some fun items tomorrow for chance number 2. No need to reenter but if you have any fun ideas of what you would like from blog pictures let me know.Does anyone like french books?

Please comment on the excellent skills of taking the picture with my right hand and drawing with my left. I feel so accomplished. I will now be good at it for the next one:0

Charlottes Brocante give away....

2011-03-28T22:23:00.000-07:00

In honor of the Brocante coming to town next week ,I am bringing it to you -my bloggie buddies. Enter and you could win one french handwritten music card........................
....one 17oo's french document........................
and one sweet french laundry tag.
Three sweet treats in all. I will draw a name on Friday from the comments. Thanks to all you precious blogging people stateside and across the pond for your kindness.You make the world just a little bit more enchanting.

Happy Sring break from sunny ......errr..... snowy Bend Oregon

2011-03-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

We have a special place to go and hang out when time allows to just be as a family.

Precious french plate racks and a old farm sink invite you to get cooking.( I vividly remember pickling all the cupboards)

Gorgeous french shelf trim lines open cupboards(No Shirley you can't have it back:)

If you are lucky you can snuggle up in the nook and watch your kids cook. Now that is what I am talking about.(No Shirley you cannot have your vichy check cafe curtains back either:)

After a long day of play you can switch the light on your side of the bed.............

.......and read and rest and snuggle and get ready to do it again the next day. It is with gratitude I give thanks to a loving savior for all he has given me. Please come see me next week for a pre- Brocante give away.Happy spring to all.

Last sneak peek of the week........

2011-03-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

This is the last post before heading off for spring break.I will be back to tease you the week of the 8th before the brocante. J'adore these 18 century prints of trophees from the jardin............Did you notice the watermarks on the paper.......
little plaques.......................oooh
precious jar from a candy store in Paris...la
and of course a few documents with mother of pearl rosaries.......la.... insert sigh of contentment.Bonne Journee Ma Belles

Red White and Blue French brocante style............

2011-03-18T10:11:00.000-07:00

Another day. Just another excuse to show you more treasures waiting for you on the 8th.

Nothing shows your allgiance to France more than flying its colors proudly for all to see......

How about a Republique of France shield? Might look good with the flags..............

Then to seal the deal throw in a few blue and white french livres ...... Vive La France!!

A little French linen goes a long ways........

2011-03-17T09:49:00.000-07:00

One roll of coarse hemp:) :) :) :) :) Are you smiling too?
Rows of torchons...........What can I say?
Delectable spools of binding with old tags............They speak for themselves.If I was doing the talking I would just say magnifique!

And last but not least sweet little tabliers(aprons) with monograms ready to get cooking,hang

around and look good or get repurposed into a ginormous cushion or anything else you lovlies can imagine.Until tomorrow.Au voir

Brocante bits of the day

2011-03-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

One adorable SS PARIS trophee coming your way....
Boxes with lables in dreamy faded grandeur are waiting for you too!
Old film reels sitting in a jar.Just so serene in their black and cream.
Angel crystals from a old chandelier..................Swooning now!!!!!
Some champagne buckets for someone....... is it you? See you tomorrow, I bid you adieu:)Please do not be jeal as my rhyming is fabu.

All that glitters is gold.....from the brocante

2011-03-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

Since grey came out to play yesterday today it is golds turn. Dreamy tassels with original store tags on them. These bring me to a loss of words to describe the fabulousness of them.sigh..sigh
These 19th century game cards make me soar.Food for the soul.(brocante soul that is)
OOOOOOOh and these little jobbies taken off 19th century costumes just make me want to do a happy dance too.
......throw in a ex voto and that mes amis is how you do gold brocante stlye.See you same time tomorrow.Bonne Journee .

Skies are grey and the brocante is too...........

2011-03-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

In honor of the Pacific Northwest grey skies I am letting the french gris come out for the brocante first. Preciosa sheets of music from the press for the original paper sheet music. Unusual and unique in everyway .J'adore.
Boxes for storing brocante booty(who would store brocante booty?) It is meant to be seen.You could put love notes or money you are saving for you next charlottes brocante fix non?
Rows of zinc buckets for all the flowers the rain from these grey skies will bring.

And just in case lightning showers are included with the rain, you can have your very own chateu finial. The Frenchies would have them at the peaks of their chateaus to disperse it evenly around the house. We Americans are just happy to bring them inside and call them art. Bonne Nuit, ma belles. See you tomorrow for brocante part deux.

flea market treasures for moi......

2011-03-13T13:30:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things from my last trip to Paris in November is these gorgeous not grey not purple not brown books.It is like a bunch of colors thrown up in the air and this is what you get.The frenchies are very good at this color.They are breathtaking to me every time I walk by them.
to add to the vingette are these herbier jars in the same dreamy shade. All of the books and these as well came from the big Clingancourt flea market in Paris.

This little sweetie came from a second hand store called the trocante in Aix in Provence. I got this a few trips ago but count it as new because my husband just hung it up........ Not to worry I have plenty of things for you mon amis.

Petite Scenes from a house .........

2011-03-11T19:21:00.000-08:00

The flea markets of France bring me so much joy.The smallest imperfect things are my favorite. A divine pink document tied with old string.................perfection.
A Heavenly face of a Ange and a guilded bird...sends me flying.
A little silk , crystal and ribbon in a urn. Ooh la la la la la la. I will start listing my little french flea market finds for you all to enjoy soon.The 8th of April is almost a month away,should the torture begin now? Bonne Weekend :)

Charlottes Brocante..........A place of Magique

2011-03-10T20:09:00.000-08:00

Twice a year Charlottes Brocante comes to life...... When the lights go down the show begins. Dream and reality hold hands for the night.
A billowy ballet costume with gauze and net blushes as she makes sure her skirt looks frothy.................
as she stands in 5th position watching the...............
angels fly around collecting all the flea market treasures from France picked just for them .
This little angel flew in from my friend Simply Chateau Shirley( in between shipping all my brocante goodies and cleaning out a chateau attic in Normandy.I know its like she makes up this stuff up.) I'll supply the brocante and you angels bring the magique.

Life is sweet .......... Brocante anyone?

2011-03-09T22:59:00.000-08:00

When I think of sweet I think of my children(most of the time:)
Having four of them I have quite the variety, kinda like candy. Instead of jordan almonds ,marshmallows, sugar wands and mint balls ......... I have.... one graduating in May moving to Hati, one that has moved home in his third year of bible college, one freshman who is driving me nuts uh, I mean driving the car and one who is conquering the 7th grade.They are all so different in needs and wants.
One thing they all have in common is they know how to twist their mom up in knots. I get so busy with all the sticky sweetness of them I forget all my bloggie friends are waiting for the brocante.I think April 8th sounds great non?

Brocante Booty

2011-01-24T21:45:00.000-08:00

I am so fortunate to be able to add to my collection every time I go to France. I had these books from my last trip and added on...................
....a beautiful 18th century rosette to the top of the books on my mantle .J"adore!
... two gorgeous green urns faded in the sun of Le Mans France hitched a ride home in my suitcase."You are over the weight limit the baggage agent says." "I am "? Not a surprise. It happens everytime. 30,00 euros for a extra bag of 50 pounds not too bad. Then she says,"Be careful next time". I wish I could explain I had run out of room in my carry on as I had three sets of angel wings and a glass candy jar with finials inside of that. That would have been hard to make her understand especially when I would have had to end with................
I had to put my heart in my pocket. Crazy brocante loving americans. We are shameless.

Whats on the Menu................

2011-01-20T23:43:00.000-08:00

I arrived home from Paris two days before Thanksgiving. (As Shirley calls it my first Christmas. Those english folk do not know what they are missing.) What was on the menu for me was the second Christmas and I was in charge of two parties, one daughters 13th birthday and a little wedding reception for my niece.115 people move the furniture out of the house reception. No big deal. Did I mention I was in charge of all the flowers? At least I did not have to cook. If you click on the menu above you will see what they were having for dinner 1898 style in France. At the second course of oxtail soup I lost my appetite fast. With all I had to do it looked as if my mind was close behind.
But all was not lost. I knew I would have a stunningly beautiful table this year. Upon arrival to the Chateau I had the most delectible confection waiting for me. A beauty and I mean beauty of a tablecloth from the Hotel Ritz Carlton in Paris. Shirley, the best antique truffler I know had not one, not two, but three of these. Who has one of these let alone three? As I was coming over the ocean they were selling like hotcakes on Ebay and she saved one for me because she knew I had a couple of napkins to go with it. Or maybe she gave it to me because she would get some sick sense of humor picturing me ironing it. This is Shirley we are talking about.I love her but love the tablecloth even more. Thanks you old tarte. Yeah, I went there . You english people know what that means don't you ? That means street walker in your neck of the woods. Street walker. As a english american person I can tell you I did not know what it meant . I assumed that it was a very fun way of saying I was sassy,you know me being so innocent and all. So picture me 7 hours into a international flight with a 9 year old english boy sitting next to me starting to act sassy.I told him" your a little tarte aren't you"? His eyes open as big as silver dollars (Or pence or quid whatever you fish and chips lovers call money) at the same time his brother in front of me turned around as the 9 year old screams" Mummy, she just called me a tarte!!!" She thinks he has misunderstood as his brother says he heard it as well no mistake.I then had to explain that my friend used it as a term of endearment. You can imagine her thinking what kind of friend I had as I myself had to ask myself the same thing.I then realized I had a wonderful fun loving friend who would throw me under the bus kind of friend. I immediately started thinking of ways to get her back. Oh yeah ,she taught me the W word too which is for wally ,which means stupid. I had to find that out the hard way as I spoke to her daughter the first time and said Hello, Wally and she said "Why are you calling me stupid?" I have had to learn English lessons as well as French to hang out with Shirley..... I could go on on but will stop for today.
I got the tree trimmed...........................
.........and the mantles decorated. This is a precious angel that was used in theatrical productions. I got three of them last year at a flea market in Nimes . Living in 120 year old house I have six mantles to decorate. Before you get all jealous you might feel better knowing none of them work as they only burn coal and our heat bill for December was 492.86 but they look fabulous................
....... and speaking of angels , one of them is missing their wings as these came home with me. O.k so you caught me. So, three angels are missing their wings cause three sets came home with me. Is it a crime? Yeah, a crime of passion. One of them moved to California to French Blues house as they don't like the cold Oregon weather. She can offer them the fresh ocean breeze . I know they will be happy there. These came from Clingancourt in Paris and when I saw them I was screaming on the inside. I marched up and took every pair they had off the wall as quick as I could. I would have had four but this sweet English lady ran all the way to get money to buy a pair and I felt sorry for her so I let her have one. She said, "thanks wally" and was on her way. Just kidding. I have only seen these in magazines and I don't know if you can see the laces hanging off of them but that was so the children could hang them off backs for the Christmas Pagents at the Catholic church.Thank you Jesus for Christmas and soft grey white hand sewn wings. I think he is the best for coming up with all these good ideas. I will show you more treats I got if you want me to tomorrow. Bonne Nuit Ma Belles. I love you Shirley girly....and Janet from French Blue too!!

Au revoir for now Paris......

2011-01-19T20:45:00.001-08:00

I arrived back in Paris for a afternoon of strolling by one of my favorite places,the Jardin Luxembourg. It is a huge park in the middle of the city. This planter was oozing with pink daisies. It just makes me weak in the knees. I love pink and the Frenchies do too. A match made in heaven.
... and of course they had windows decorated for Chistmas in Pink.I tell you that is tre chic . Who needs red and green anyway?
Certainly not these pooches who had their holiday finery on lounging upon none other than a pink rug.

For kicks and giggles this window had pink pom poms in a box. Delicious.

As night fell I thanked God for another trip to France. I still am in awe that you can get in a airplane and fly across the ocean and 13 hours later arrive in Paris. This was the sixth time we have met and we are still getting to know each other but it looks like Amour to me.
I mean were else can you go and sleep on pillowcase twisted up like a tootsie roll?(that is pink I might add.) Sweet dreams were sure to come my way.
Until we meet again Paris,I bid you adieu.

Paris bound again

2011-01-17T20:49:00.000-08:00

I fluffed my pillows for the last time........
As I did I thought about all the nights I slept under that glorious box beam ceiling and I could not help but giggle remembering my party Shirley had for me upon my arrival. All of her english friends came to meet me inculding a Countess from the village. NOT! All of her cronies had lunch before I arrived and they hatched a plan that would involve a countess and her chauffere coming over for apperitifs. Shirley told me I had to bow or courtsey and follow the cue from the countess to know what to do. As I greeted the"Countess" complete with fur coat Shirley was in the corner wetting her pants seeing I looked like a dear in the head lights........ So now you know why I tease her a little as she has it coming.
I was the first guest in this "new room". It was adorned with a precious chair having original upholstery and dreamy ribbons carved on the top .It looked so stunning with the little banner with a B in honor of ....
the Chateau Brueil
As I glanced back for one more look I snapped a few last photos of the chateau.
I guess I know were to find her....J'adore Mon Ami Shirley

Swans and a Salle de Bain with a view

2011-01-17T01:44:00.000-08:00

This is the salle du bain at Shirley and Marks house.It is fab with its open beams and coir rug going floor to floor.It is truly country french.A old house Hundreds of years old. The kind of thing us americans try to do only we never seems to do it justice.I adore the way it leads you to a calm and peaceful place. So thoughtful and charming. A work of love that was a long time coming and they deserve it.
I got excited just looking at the door. They really did an incredible job in restoring it in period style.It takes a lot of time and patience to wait for doors and windows the right size.
!!!!THIS IS THE VIEW FROM THE SALLE DE BAIN!!!!
As I got out of the tub and went to the window I was so overcome buy the beauty of the grey skies and what I saw.(yes,I had the camera with me)I then ran outside hair soaking wet in Marks wellies to snap the pictured below.
Swans. Swans a swimming to be exact. Why did I not take the pic from inside? I paniced.It is not every day you see a couple of swans outside the window your looking out of. I know this picture does not do justice to what I saw. In vain I tried to have some help making this picture better but my people could not help. The swans were leaving for the day and I was too.We were both having our swan song.

Le Petite Chateau Brueil

2011-01-13T21:20:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the chateau Mark and Shirley call home. Charles the three legged cat and Digger the Jack Russel make it a family of four. It was so fun coming down the long road and seeing the chateau come into sight. If we went any further we would run into the water!! They live on a marsh that floods in the winter and is dry in the summer. Absolutely stunning! Wait until tomorrow and I will show you the view from the bathroom.

Of course there are geraniums in the windows with shutters . Soft grey exterior and shutters. So quintessential country french .
Everyone has a wine cellar right?

Tomorrow were going in.

Brocante day deux and then to the chateau.......

2011-01-12T16:22:00.000-08:00

This is the precious gate that goes to Mark and Shirleys house.(chateau)Yes ,I said chateau. A petite chateau. J'adore. Were not going there until tomorrow. There is more brocanting to do.
Here I am all bundled up for the wet weather with my rain boots on. Shirley was making fun of my boots but at the end of the day I had dry feet and she did not. I am just saying.
Everyone and there dog was at the brocante.This little frenchie was so cute.
All of the vans line up and then a person on his bicycle rides buy and declares the market open.
....then we are off and running.Sooooooooooooo much fun. I got bottle holders and a french map on canvas. Old reels of french film and hemp towels. Millenary feathers and old menus and boxes with french writing. Shirley got the most amazing wallpaper sample book she has listed right now on her ebay store and I am going to be wanting that. She also bought pages with french crowns and monogram scraps. It was a great market, I hope to go to again .And were is Mark in all this? He is running back and fourth to the car carrying our things emptying the bags and then in between he makes sure we have plenty of cafe and water. He is a english gentleman. You cannot carry anything or open your door.And he laughs at all his own jokes so we don't have to entertain him at all. No you cannot come so don't ask.It took me 4 years of begging and I do mean begging. I will tell you more about that tomorrow.

To muse or not to muse that is the question......

2011-01-11T18:15:00.000-08:00

I present to you Madame Shirley(she is the one in the middle) She only looks like this at the brocante when people are eyeing her gear. Really to give you a visual of Shirley and Mark think Angelina and Brad......then forget about it. Maybe throw in some oompa loompa and your getting close.(On another note you cannot believe the things you can find at the brocante.I found Brad and Angelina there in Auqust a year and a half ago.I will have to post those photos sometime.) There will be no photos of Mark and Shirley as some things are just to sacred to share. Outside of her face etched in my mind we have our Jane Fonda workout nights to remember. It is how I shall carry on until we meet again.
Shirley plus textiles equals insanity.She has been at it for 25 years and is going strong. She found this building outside and called me on the telly to get me to come over.We bought a ton of stuff from this couple.Shirley got some incredible silk curtains and fabrics and gorgeous rouge ribbon on the original spool.I found a box of crowns and medals that were brass and tole painted from costumes .After much bartering I bought them all.It was a great day of fun.
We ran out of money or would have bought even more as it truly was one of the best spots for textiles. We found it towards the end of the day but what a great way to end it.
The last time I was at Le mans with Shirley I got this fabulous bed couronne. Snatched it right from under her nose.I feel a little bit guilty....NOT!!! See you tomorrow at lisieux.

Shirley Shirley Shirley

2011-01-10T18:38:00.001-08:00

I met my Shirley some ten years ago on Ebay. She had sold textiles for years and owned a store in England and then moved to the Normandy area of France. She is so charming she even coaxed her lawyer husband to quit his job and move to the country. (He is the poster child for a whippin boy though Shirley prefers to call him a love slave. At least she has the slave part right.) I furnished a whole vacation cabin with finds from her online store. Sheets so thick in linen they must have wieghed 4 or 5 pounds each.Vichy check in red and lampshades with the same. Hemp towels and curtains. I could go on for hours. I had never been to France and she was my only association with it. All I knew was she sold what I liked. It has been a love affair ever since. Don't get me wrong, she is not perfect (but close.) Her issues are ones you can work with as you will come to find out. She sells under simply chateau on Ebay and has a blog with the same name. If you want to shop for French Brocante items and want it to be open 24 hours a day this is your ticket. New listings every week,straight from the country untouched. Just typing this makes me want to go shopping. I will finish this blog. Focus Amy Focus. If you're reading this Mark (her husband) you know I love you and feel sainthood is in your future for living with Shirley. I am sorry she always borrows your razor for her face. I will bring you a fresh one next time and we will hide it from her....... Here are a few of my favorite things from years past that I purchased from Shirley's store. Mark, I will look forward to seeing you with Shirley tomorrow at the Brocante in Le mans.

Antique french sheets with crowns from a royals trousseau ooh la la
an enchanting cherub plaque with bird in hand from a building

( she probably pryed it off herself)
petite shells in test tubes with the writing in french.I get to look at these everyday courtesy of Simply Chateau . Merci Beau Coup Madame Shirley

Are we there yet?

2011-01-09T14:33:00.001-08:00

Yes,were loading up to head north for Shirleys but

not for a few days.I had to wait three days to see her and so do you. But,were gonna have fun. Plus the truck is too small for us so were gonna have take the train.

The good news is more shopping in Paris. This time we are leaving the window and going inside. Two words.Cire Trudon . One word Magnifique! They sell candles in fragrances that you have to develop a sixth sense just to process it in your mind.

Blue toile linen fabric walls with gorgeous drawings and antique domes over candles .Eye candy !Yes yes yes!

They also have walls of tapers for about 2,60 euro a piece. How fun that can tell all your friends you went to one of the oldest candle stores in Paris. If that is not enough, you can tell them they make all the candles for the Palace of Versailles. It's that little place that old King Louis and Marie lived......Not to be missed while in the city. I go everytime I am there----I think that is why they let me take pictures inside.So greatful.

Three days in Paris at Joyeux Noel time!

2011-01-08T13:46:00.000-08:00

I am going to get to Shirley but first I need to show you some windows I saw during my three precious days in the city of lights. At Au Printemps department store the windows were bejeweled for holiday magique.............

...even the ceilings were festive. Lights and ribbons and ornaments hanging from the walkways outside!!! The french never leave you wanting more details. They just leave you wanting more ... insert sigh here at the memory of it all.

...from ghosts chasing children around at a christmas feast to busts that look like they came to life just for the holidays the windows were truly something from a dream of a place you can only find in Paris.

I found myself wondering if this man was real from another time or just a real dream of someones mind for the holiday season. Either way it fun to think of his life and how he ended up with his louvre museum like image hanging out for the holidays in Paris ....just like me.

Au revoir and Bonjour !!!

2011-01-07T22:20:00.000-08:00

I never said goodbye and now I am back to say hello. I have been on a little adventure to France. Paris and then up to the north to be exact. I am going to show you my adventures which most certainly mean the B R O C A N T E! But ,if you can believe it that was not even the best part.(Yes I did bring back the goodies so you all can settle down.)

there were beautiful things to buy and see.......

but the real fun started when I got to be with a doll. A real live doll named Shirley. Ahhh ,let the stories begin.

Merci Beau Coup to you!!!!!

2010-11-05T18:29:00.000-07:00

The last day of September was the perfect day for the Brocante Non? Delicious treats were had by all who waited patiently (and I do mean patiently.)
Me myself and I would wait in line for a hour or two for good french stuff but just knowing there are others like me floating around.................I LOVE IT!!!!!!! I Love you guys and girls a good amount.... I truly do....
I know I say it every time but I will say it again. I am truly humbled and thankful for your generosity and friendship. I am amazed at all the beautiful things you all give me like handmade cards ,flowers, perfume ,buttons you name it. I take all you money and your bring me presents........sounds so wrong but feels so good hee hee hee!!!

See you tomorrow my Brocante Amis.....

2010-09-30T18:13:00.000-07:00

Hold on to your culottes just one more day..............
and then you will make it to the Brocante!!!!!
the bags have been stamped...........................
the flowers arranged.(Thank you Gretchen and Robbie for the beautiful bouquets :)
and all Le Magasin Charlottes Brocante awaits is YOU!!!!!

P.s Someone left me a message from my post yesterday and there is a flea market in Aurora Friday night and Saturday day. Could be fun!

Hip Hip Hooray,the Brocante is in three days....

2010-09-29T01:08:00.000-07:00

This sweet little Republique of France flag bids you Bonjour for the soiree!!!
And,Manny is all dressed up in his best medailles awarded for bravery endurded at the battles of brocantes past. Judging from how many he has, you can tell it is gonna be a rough night ladies.

The store is this Friday, October 1st from 6-9 pm at my house : 24670 S hwy 99e canby oregon

Merci beau coup for letting me bring a little France to you.

Bisous Mon Amis

These are few of my favorite things...........

2010-09-27T22:10:00.000-07:00

Dreamy silk danseuse slippers from a little shop called Boutique du Francine in equally as dreamy Sur La Sorgue France..................

they love lazy days.......................

just hanging around there perpetual calendar friend. Ooh La La ...........

Ready for the Brocante.........

2010-09-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

The store is ready so I am just having me a little sittin around time..................
I love to look at all the beautiful things God has provided for me to enjoy.................
and I am 100 percent sure there will be chippy furniture in heaven.I mean think about how old it us up there!!

Stopping to smell the roses..............

2010-09-19T21:11:00.000-07:00

I am enjoying the last roses of summer.................
cleaning up my store for my friends who are coming over for a visit,
and enjoying all my whose its and what its just because I can!
at least if I lose my marbles I know were I can find more. Hope your Sunday was sunny and full of family and fun.

Thirteen is your lucky number if you like French Hotel silver......

2010-09-02T15:19:00.000-07:00

Absolutley magnifique!! This was used as a table marker.It has a clip on the back for a menu..................
tasty pots for lait(cream or milk) and the(tea) for une(one).
barely there monograms on some couteauxs( knives ) well loved and used often.
and precious sauce pitchers for the french love of sauces. I must secretly be French as I love me some good sauce...It is official,Parisian Farmgirl is making macaroons so the Brocante will be Friday October 1 from 6-9. Sooooooooooooooooo excited.

I Pink (I mean think) therefore I am..............part deux

2010-09-01T19:32:00.000-07:00

How about some pink millinery feathers with Paris tags on them to make your heart beat a little faster. Put them to rest on your favorite book just because you can......
or a jar full of pink dentifrice boxes (these are for tooth powder before they had toothpaste) and they are swoon worthy for sure....
and pink silk from lyon on there original spools. Oh no I am starting to drool...
I can only hope it does not get on my antique Bonne Nuit pillow. Now all I have to do is ask that Parisian Farmgirl if she will make us some macaroons for October 1st or a date change will be on order........ I cannot wait to see you all.

I Pink (I mean think) therefore I am..............

2010-09-01T00:16:00.000-07:00

J'adore Rose ( I adore Pink) and I know alot of you do too!!

so I picked out this cute chemise (shirt) for one of you!
Everyone needs pink cones for there bonbons (candy) don't you?
and a four foot long bolster that might cause a fight. I just hope all you brocante ladies behave allright. Tomorrow I will give you I think pink part deux and then I will come up with a brocante date for you. I know you are all thinking I should stop doing the brocante and start a poetry club? Maybe not so much,adieu

Do you dream of the the Brocante in black and creme?

2010-08-30T22:09:00.000-07:00

Well , I do! ! Just give me some amazing little french stamps to make little sweet somethings .....
and these darling needles to stitch up whatever my heart desires....
of course boxes with powder that say Paris = totally dreamy!!
and a plaque with a crown because it is your dream and you can be the Queen if you want...
don't forget to put your Petite Chateau plaque out.Thanks for dreaming with me. Bonsoir Mon Amis

Scrummy little bits from the Brocante...............

2010-08-27T15:25:00.000-07:00

Unusual large keys with brass and bone tags.............

and pillowcases with the original tags...

and french ticking from mattresses yum yum and yum. and some french billiard balls and french enamel numbers to even out the fun.. I will be back next week with a date for the soiree and a few more teasers...Bisous

Will there be French papers at Charlottes Brocante ??

2010-08-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

OUI OUI OUI!!!(YES YES YES!!!)
At a small morning brocante in Nimes I stopped in my tracks to behold a huge box of documents.........................Combien(how much) I uttered in my best French . After a little bartering they were mine. I did not stop smiling all day. It is easy to find a handful of documents but a whole box not so much...this early 1700 s mariage document is tres tres bien(very very good.)

papers from the 1800 s with crowns......................... heavy sigh............
parchment papers with fluer de lis..................... joy pure joy..............
factures(receipts) from stores with stamps ,beautiful in jewelry making.........
and most unusual, photo copies of documents great for using as postcards or framing. So yes mon Amis , there will be French papers at Charlottes Brocante.

Its the little French Brocante things that make you ooh la la....

2010-08-26T00:07:00.000-07:00

I love anything with French writing on it like these powder boxes.....
and these grain sacs complete with repairs(insert scream here)............
how about some little bags for candy or labels for perfume....J'adore!!
.........then you can wash it down with a sip from your own French thermos, complete with glass.....those frenchies think of everything.

Are you ready for another peak from the Brocante?

2010-08-25T00:16:00.000-07:00

Numbers and towels stretching after the trip across the ocean......
and sweet petite bird cages looking for a new place to land......
plaques to make you smile just a little.......
and unused bolts of linen to create just because you can. Shall I dare show you more?

Bonsoir Mon Amis

2010-08-23T21:45:00.000-07:00

I am home from France with boxes of goodies and I bet you want a peak right? o.k here goes....

georgeous globe and glorious french books the size of 3 by 5 index cards in a shade of green you only see in France faded in the Provence sun...... precious hotel silver egg cups aged to perfection....over easy....
pots of creme with their lids ready to march into the kitchen for duty....
and grain sacks with CROWNS AND WINGS
yes, I said CROWNS AND WINGS!!!!!! I will post more tomorrow. I want to give you time to digest the first course. You know how bad heartburn is,it can wreck the whole meal. Bisous

2010-06-29T23:08:00.001-07:00

2010-06-29T22:58:00.000-07:00

One incredible acro performance done...........

beautiful bouquet given for a job well done.
One wonderful son Nolan ,newly graduated eight grader on his way to high school.......who got his first phone and.......

Now it is time to

STOP!

(Just long enough to book a ticket to France on the 15th. )No backsies now!!

2010-06-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

I decided to take some pictures of my front room this morning to show some of the beautiful details that I love ,like the leg of this chair............

then snapped a photo this of a precious small little french stool with a gilded french crown ,documents and books................

then

sweet

dove

Marie

landed in

for

her

close up......

on the couronne!!! (crown in french, I know it sounds better in french I just do not know why?)

I am feeling blue today...................with a chance of pink

2010-05-18T10:50:00.001-07:00

I know it is hard to believe but I do own other things that are not pink,such as this delicious above pictured painting on tin of some glorious angels swirling in the clouds(might I note pink is in the above photo)......................
...............and this pretty bunch of architectural salvage pieces that I affectionately call whos its and whats its with just a hint of bleu(hey were is the pink?).........
............. and these darling little music books that sometime in there life got covered in bleu(dare I say pink could lie beneathe?)
....for me all roads lead to back to pink.These candy bags came from a little stand in the south of France. I will give some away if I get 10 comments and personal emails do not count. Be blessed today even of your blue..........I will throw in the pink.

tick tock tick tock

2010-05-13T20:55:00.000-07:00

Do any of you ever feel like you just don't have enough time to do the things you want t0 (even though it is fun ,if you have to watch time fly ,on a swedish mora clock, and yes, mine is trimmed in PINK :)

.......my plate is so full. My beautiuful french pink pillivuyt plate.Yes,I am looking for some sympathy. I feel sorry enough for myself so if no one can join me I have misery to keep me company. Some people are just so dramatic.

Happy Mothers Day !!!

2010-05-09T15:27:00.000-07:00

My morning was wonderful and amazing. It started with the beautiful story of Moses' faithful mother. You can read about her in Exodus 2 or go online to Chuck Swindoll. Talk about a woman of faith.
Then, my husband brought this to me in bed......
he said"I have to tell you, I think this breakfast might be worthy of a blog photo"(he was right)....
then he gave me this darling antique piece of french sweetness for our bedroom....
... and finally the BEST part mothers' day is those handmade notes from your kids....
...when they tell you how they feel from their hearts.
I long to be worthy for them to call me mom. It is the biggest joy in my life besides the knowledge that I have my identity as a daughter of God. I am broken and redeemed, created in the image of love, made to find my way in life with him as my leader. All my children have a relationship in process with Jesus.It is indeed a happy mothers day for me.

French Pink (Rose) Part trois

2010-05-07T11:23:00.000-07:00

I am tellling you I am not the only one crazy for french pink....................the frenchies themselves even put on their toilet paper. TOILET PAPER!!!! You can get it by the sheet..............
...... or on rolls(great for packing the brocante goodies in the old suitcase).....
..... they even have pink sugar.....PINK SUGAR!!!!
....and of course they have frothy french pink tutus like this one that did a Échappé all the way across the ocean to live at my house in my little shop.....................Really if you cannot give me one ooh la la over that I just question your sanity(o.k it is my sanity in question but we all know it feels better to shift the blame.)
.....and last but not least is my pink diamond ring that Pierre gave me under the eiffel tower for my 40th birthday.(o.k it is not french but it is pink and I did get it in France and it is sitting on a French ring sizer, so just work with me a little bit would you?!)

My prayer for you today is that no matter what color makes your heart sing that it just sings.Thanks for sharing my favorite color with me , Avoir mos amies

French Pink (Rose) Part deux

2010-05-06T09:11:00.000-07:00

I should wish to tell you french pink is practical in every way. Like the above petinque balls(french lawn bowling balls) great for getting your morning exercise in with style..........
then you can get all your bills paid with this escargot encrier(a place to dip your fountain pen shaped like a snail)........
and last but not least these opera glasses will help you be prepared at a moments notice to go see the opera with your husband(hopefully in paris) I think I need to have part trois tomorrow,non?

French Pink (Rose) Part un

2010-05-05T00:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I own a french pink abreuvoir that little birds can sip water out of and it is one of my favorite things............................. unless.................
I stop to think about my french pink books with peeling and flakey spines then I think they might be my favorite.....................but then if I get thirsty
my favorite thing might be this ginormous paris pink porcelaine mug......

But then if I go sit down in my front room next to my french pink letters, they might become my new favorite thing.............. look for part deux tomorrow for more of a view through my french rose colored glasses. Can you cheat on inanimate objets? Just wondering....

God is in the details....

2010-04-30T23:10:00.000-07:00

from the finial of my sofa....
to the cornice of my apothecary cabinet....
to the intricate carving on my favorite shelf....All made by peoples hands ....... created in the image of the one who is the KING of details. Thank you God for all the beauty you give us everyday.

Life is sweet like a Bon Bon..............

2010-04-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

....with a pa'te d' amaude cerise(cherry) on top!

And what makes life even sweeter than Fauchon ,Laduree and the above pictured A La Mere De Famille all together is ..................THAT I AM GOING TO PARIS May 22nd!(insert squeal of delight here!)

Back to just two.................

2010-04-21T16:54:00.000-07:00

These last 11 days have been so busy and rewarding. I watched my friends three children as she enjoyed a trip alone to Rome with her husband and arrived home safe to them last night. Now as the quiet comes with just two children again I am reminded how much I love the business of life . As our older two children leave college this summer they will spend time in Haiti and Mexico on mission trips . I have just really come to realize what a blessing it is to have them home. I will not get that chance this year. As I think about a trip back to France and all of the excitement this new season of life brings, I also acknowledge the bitter sweet season of allowing kids to be adult kids. Time goes by so fast and how many days we have is already been decided for us. I want to use my time wisely to enjoy what God has given me and to bring honor to him each of the days. I am so greatful for the way he causes me to reflect and think about the vapor of my life. Last week I talked to a precious woman I met at the little flea market I have at my house and we laughed and dreamed about a trip to Paris. Much joy was had on the phone planning for our get together. Now I have been informed her dad passed away and now she will stop life and cope with this new season in her life. None of us are immune to lifes challenges but it is all how we live them out.

Merci Beau Coup to All Mon Amis!!!

2010-03-13T10:48:00.000-08:00

No photos today just words of gratitude. First and foremost to a loving God who gets me. Who made me to love old things and to be creative .Who even knows the number of hairs I have on my head. Who says he never slumbers or sleep so he can watch over his children and causes our bodies to move and makes the sun come up every morning and the moon come up at night. How awesome is that. I could go and on I mean really if you stop to think about that it really is nothing short of a total miracle. Second, I am so humbled by my friends Patty and her twin daughters Emily and Anna who brought fruit and cookies and wrapped packages and just served me because they love me. They also brought along a few extra helpers Abbigal and annie whom I just adore. I could not have done it without them. Third, for parents who support me and snuck in the back door with little sandwiches for the masses and boy were there masses .And last but not least the people who came. Beautiful loving and wonderful women and men. Isabel,(sweet and funny and precious like a little rosebud)Randy( a real live genuine prince),Heidi,Nancy,Audrey(three little angels seriously, really I am not even joking) Kim( she likes candy and had pink on shes brilliant)two little ladies from Molalla and so many others I do not know your name but I thank each one of you for packing into my little store and like all good pirahnas dovouring and cleaning it to the bone in about an hour. I cannot wait for the next time I see your faces but I look forward to growing in friendship and enjoying each others gifts and talents.Bonne Journee(safe travels)

Brocante Booty fit for a Queen

2010-03-10T21:00:00.000-08:00

Well I am just about the end of the "booty" post before the Brocante on Friday. I thought one more tease would be in order.To bid you Avoir I leave you with Gorgeous metallic ribbons that would make Maries head spin and boxes with wax seals used to transfer gold through the mail. Darling children dancing there way around trade cards and books so beautiful you could eat them like a tasty macaroon. Did I mention the 1850's botanicals? How about the ventouses? They are just the sweetest to put little treasures under there wavey glass. And my favorite whos it whats it of all to put under the ventouses ..... little feve de roies . They come in every shape from the Eiffel tower to babies and if you found them in your galette you could be the King for the day.Duh everyone knows its the QUEEN of the day!!! Thank you all for your sweet emails to me. You all make it so worth the process. Bonne Chance

Whos its and Whats its galore!!!

2010-03-09T09:42:00.000-08:00

I just love all the little things that make France so special .......I call them whos its and whats its. Dore pieces of wedding domes in the shape of birds, beautiful gilt bows, wonderful in a dish or above a picture .Childrens musique work books and beautful handwritten cards from a french childs game. Whos it whats it do not have any rules that is probably why we get along so well .Were just a bunch of Brocante rebels!!! I will see all of you whos its and whats it lovers Friday at the brocante non?

Brocante Bijouxs part deux.....

2010-03-04T18:28:00.000-08:00

Adorable little gems....vintage laundry tags,
proud french medals from the 1800's
vintage french communion markers and
early 19th century books fit for royalty! Tune in tomorrow for more ooh la la!!!

Letters and Documents and Menus Oh My!

2010-03-03T20:34:00.000-08:00

Here is a glimmer of the French delights that await you at

Charlotte's Brocante.........early19th century handwritten documents and....
yummy french hotel keys with enamel numbers and....

delectable vintage small french chalkboards and fromage (cheese) molds and....
numerotes(numbers) galore and....
vintage french absinthe spoons and....
mouth watering old french hemp balls .(Can your mouth water over old french hemp balls?Speaking only from my experience....YES IT CAN!)And ................that is it for now, a person can only have so much excitement for one day.More photos tomorrow!Bonsoir Mon Amis