As I reflect on the party and the past year of renovation, I feel a touch of disorientation. I was so focused on one point in time, and now I feel adrift or unsettled. It’s not that I don’t have things to do. Although I had promised myself to sort through everything I owned, I wasn’t able to complete the magnitude of that task. Time ran out as other projects took priority. And I have designated this summer to be the season of the garden, which needs its own renovation. And the headwrap project is waiting for my attention.
But I no longer feel driven and can allow myself to relax into the beauty and comfort that my home provides. I feel a huge sense of accomplishment and can take some time to enjoy the changes. Otherwise, why do it?
I realized that the woman who was on the dance floor, organizing the entertainment and party details, and loving the gathering of friends in my home was a part of the woman who Nelson fell in love with. I managed to bring her back to life after a long hibernation, if only for an evening. Now I know that she remains within and that she can make a visit when I call upon her. We all wear many hats in life, and party headwear is not to be denied in this new decade.
My shoes have been stored in clear plastic containers and organized on industrial shelving, and the gold silk damask curtains which cover the sides of the shelves facing the door to the room were created by Diana, a woman of many talents and skills. The ‘shoe rug’ was discovered at an estate sale several years ago.
Photos by Rachel
Vintage silk floral patterned Hawaiian dress (an invitation to spring) – vintage store years ago, navy felt cloche – gifted, navy pants – consignment store, vintage navy gloves – estate sale, navy turtleneck and booties – retail.
Treasured birthday gift created by my dear friend Kathleen.
Though my party is now a memory, I will keep it alive with photos at the bottom of my current posts. Today I celebrate Camille, my daughter who has brought limitless meaning to life during the past two years. Her empathy and dazzling smile have the ability to brighten even the darkest of days.
Camille with friends.
Camille with family.
Camille with the youngest dancer Malakai and his grandfather Donald.
The SC is off to join the gathering not to be missed at Patti’s Visible Monday HERE at Not Dead Yet Style.
What a lovely print! The blues in the dress and cloche really bring out your blue eyes. It’s good when we can get back in touch with those dormant parts of ourselves and re-integrate them.
Yes, I recognise and like the idea that hidden inside, somewhere, is the same person that always existed. It is like turning a kaleidoscope – different faces on the same axis – but also a sense of more control, rather than an abandonment to grief
It’s so good to see that you rediscovered that exciting woman inside and now you just may need a rest…that is a big undertaking! I think Camille and her friends are so gorgeous! I know you will get to the garden and all that calls you, but if you are not feeling drawn, then that’s OK…the voices will beckon you soon enough! Enjoy your week, Judith!
I’m not sure what thrills me more-that gorgeous tunic or the peek at your shoe shelves. I’m also warmed by the next installment of photos from the party. I think it’s such a good idea to savor them in this way.
You’re still the woman Nelson fell in love with. You’ll always be that woman. I have to believe he also fell in love with the woman who’s sensitive and pensive, desiring to live with beauty and integrity. She can kick up her heels and party, or meditate and create beauty around her. We are always evolving, becoming more “ourselves”, I think.
Your garden is going to be lovely this year.
You are just adorable! That outfit is perfect, topped off with the hat!
I love that dress. The colourful prints are amazing. This is vintage? Thanks for posting the photos and feel free to drop by me too soon.
That tunic is gorgeous on you. Surely Spring can’t resist hiding for much longer if we continue to tempt her in with our bright colours and floral prints?
Your shoe shelves are fabulous.
I love what Jean said about us continuing to evolve and become more “us”, I can’t better that! xxx
Beautiful look, Judith, and it’s wonderful to hear how free you are allowing yourself to be! Rest if you feel like it, then dance, then something new. Thanks so much for sharing these thoughts and pictures with Visible Monday.
Beautiful post, Judith!You look fabulous-I can’t wait to see how things evolve for you in the coming year.
Camille is STUNNING! she gets her gorgeousness from you!
Love those gloves!
Judith, you remind me so much of Audrey Hepburn in that you have a delicate gracefulness that is innate and always shows through in what you’re wearing. I love the vintage tunic and I simply adore the gloves! Your daughter is every bit as beautiful as you are!
I, too, need to focus on some garden projects this year. After the ’10 flood we’ve been so busy rebuilding our house that the garden has been completely neglected. I hope we see future pictures of your progress.
Spashionista (Alicia)
I appreciate that you have shown your shoe storage solution today. I am looking for storage ideas, and this one is clever. And fortunately, I’m handy with the sewing machine.
Bravo to you for being able to enjoy the pauses between the doing. They are to be cherished. That is one thing I enjoy so much about gardening. Mother Nature keeps a firm hand on when we can create, and she also whispers when it’s time to enjoy the fruits of our labor and relax. Can’t wait to see your garden.
Sue xo
What a beautiful print on that jacket! I got very excited seeing a glimpse of your shoe storage solution! Looks like you have a wall of shoes!
You look beautiful in that stunning jacket, I love the print and the hat is one of my favourites! I do hope you find your stride in the sea of present life after a period of feeling adrift: it sounds like many new possibilities are offered in the waves, its just about finding the right pace to swim comfortably.
What a lovely dress. And worn over trousers. You can send this one in for the challenge at 40+Style.
I am glad you can enjoy your lovely home.
And you are so right about your daughter. She does have a dazzling smile.
Especially the last photo with Malakai and Donald….. so cute, what a lovely photo.
What a stunning dress, Judith, so colourful and bright, and as elegant as always.
The changes in your home and your birthday party have been significant projects for you to organise, and it seems natural to need a little quiet time to reflect on what you have achieved, and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. There are new projects waiting, of course, the garden and the much anticipated head wrap work, but all in good time. And there will be more dancing,mand other parties and celebrations, I’m sure. Nelson would be so so proud of you, and of your gorgeous daughter. xxxxx
p.s. forgot to say earlier – your daughter Camille is so beautiful and full of life, just like her gorgeous mother.
Judith, this is such a beautiful post, both in the written message as well as the photos. Isn’t it a blessing when we realize that life truly does go on and that the inner strength we all have, although lost at times, eventually resurfaces. My heart was full to know that SC found her time to dance again.
I’m not that far behind you, Judith, and your very thoughtful posts remind me of the potential for a rich creative life in every breath. Your mode of moving through the days with such marshaled energy and apparent grace is a lesson for me, every time I pop in here to see what you’re up to. I tend to charge, then collapse, charge, droop, then charge again. Gotta quit that nonsense and take a page from your lovely book. All this said as just a reminder that you have a positive influence on everyone who comes here to read.
And, on a much more mundane (but completely fun) level … I would give a lot to look as PERFECT as you do in pants and a tunic. This look can be dangerous, ‘and I understand it’s all about proportion, but you just look flipping fabulous.
I will be tall and thin in my next life.
Judith, you deserve a chance to sit down, take a breather, and enjoy the results of your hard work. Sometimes the best moments in life are the quietest. I love nothing better than a good book, good coffee, a chocolate croissant, super soft pjs, and a dog or cat in my lap.
Camille is so, so lovely. I know she is an amazing woman, just like her mom.
“she can make a visit when I call upon her” oh my heavens, please call on her often–for your sake and for all of your followers (anonymous and long-time lurkers like me and identified fans alike). Fine hairs on my body are still tingling from your self-observation and wisdom from that day and event.
Judith, you look stunning as ever and also Camille! The photos are great, I hope you know we are sisters of the heart and you and Camille are family…I value you and am glad you’re in my life!
I had so much fun at your birthday, yea for big dancing parties!
I love you.
Paula
Hi Judith!
Again you daughter is lovely – I love your shoe storage solution very creative!
I love your dress, fabulous print –
You know i think it’s normal how you feel, you put so much in that project, just take a pause and like you said enjoy the moment – There will another project that will capture all your attention and energy soon I’m sure-
Ariane xxxx
Just like Ariane said, you need to re-adjust after a period of such focused activity. How life-affirming to know so many people love and care about you!
I LOVE your shoe storage. I need a warehouse for mine, but that’s OK. As long as I can manage to grab the pair I want, I’ll have to make do with rummaging!
Much love from England,
Rose
Love all the beautiful inviting smiles in your party photos!
Love you in this jacket. How I covet your organization project! This weekend, we stayed in a small, three-room cottage and I fell in love with the idea of its simplicity. Unfortunately, I would have to buy the house next door to store all my stuff. But I’m a big fan of the tiny house idea!
As always, you’re my inspiration!
You have to bring her back to live not only for nelson, but for yourself.
You are admirable, and I do wish one day I can give you a big hug or many, lol.
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You are such a beauty- and I never tire of having my breath taken away whenever I visit your blog. I love your ensemble, your thoughts and the grace and elegance of your home, and the way that you celebrate. Thank you so much for sharing all of this with me.
Oh how I know it. After a wonderful party it is often a little silence. For a long time I tried to do a lot but can not get started. But looking at your Hawaii dress and your blog it gives energy.
Your beautiful daughter looks like a “(solstråle) ray of sunlight” as we say in Danish.
And it’s a cute gift the little chair.
Looks like a fabulous evening and I’m pleased that you managed to bring part of your old self out of hibernation for the party. Hope she’s back again soon.
SC, it must have been an emotional moment realising that the woman Nelson fell in love with is still here among us, spreading her love far and wide among her precious loved ones. I want to give you the biggest hug my dear. Pulling weeds, composting, mulching, pruning, planting … smelling, gazing and dreaming. Gardening, especially when major work is needed, is such a healing process for me and I do hope you enjoy planning and relishing the task ahead of you. xoxoxo