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September Favorites ~ 2026

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There’s something about September that I find particularly beautiful.  It’s my birthday month and it’s a month of transition—the golden light, cooler evenings, the return of familiar routines, and that unmistakable feeling that a new season is beginning.

One of the little joys of September has been a trip to Trader Joe’s. I stopped in last week and, as you can probably imagine, the seasonal offerings got the best of me. I came home with their Warm Apple Crisp Pie, Plum Torte, Butternut Squash Lasagna, and Butternut Squash Ravioli—and having all of these tucked away in my freezer has brought me an almost surprising amount of joy.

This month, I’m sharing a few of the things I’ve been loving lately, from home and entertaining finds to little everyday pleasures that have made September feel just a bit more special.

 

 

Let’s start with a little fall fashion. One of the first things that caught my eye this season was a pair of olive-green slingback shoes at Target. I knew immediately they would be perfect for autumn. There’s something about that rich olive shade that feels so lovely this time of year, and I can already picture wearing them with everything.

Another fashion item I’ve become very interested in lately is the silk and satin skirt. I love the way they skim the body and create such a flattering, feminine silhouette. I have found the fit to be especially good, and, honestly, I love how they make me look just a tad bit slimmer!

I ordered one from Quince and a second one from Amazon, and both have been sensational. They’re easy to dress up or down and feel polished without being fussy. I have a feeling these skirts are going to be on heavy rotation throughout the fall season.

 

Now let’s talk about this fabulous find! I spotted this gorgeous—and just a little bit fun—chaise jewelry box couch at HomeGoods, and I absolutely love it. It’s one of those pieces that is both practical and pretty, which is always a winning combination in my book. The little chaise design makes it feel so special, and it adds such a charming touch to my space.

I did find a look-alike on Amazon, but if you love this as much as I do, I would make a quick trip to HomeGoods. There still may be a few available, and you know how it goes with HomeGoods—you see something you love, and it may not be there the next time you visit!

And I can’t forget my Creed. This was definitely a serious splurge, but one I’ve been thoroughly enjoying. The scent feels so elegant and subtle—luxurious without being overpowering. I’ve even found myself spraying a little on before bed, which says a lot about how much I’m enjoying it. There’s just something lovely about ending the day with a beautiful scent.

 

 

 

Another gorgeous beauty find I’ve been loving is Brunel Golden Hour. Olivia McDowell shared it in one of her videos, and naturally, I had to order a bottle for myself. I’m so glad I did!

This body oil feels incredibly luxurious, and the combination of safflower, castor, and magnolia creates the most elegant scent. It leaves my skin with the prettiest shimmer and glow every time I wear it. There’s something so lovely about a product that makes you feel a little more polished with such little effort.

Golden Hour has quickly become one of those little beauty luxuries that I reach for when I want to feel especially put together. And really, who doesn’t love a little shimmer and glow?

 

 

During these cooler days, I’ve been enjoying a little treat as well. Starbucks has a Chocolate Pistachio Loaf this season, and it is so good! I’ve been picking up a loaf or two for the weekend, adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and enjoying this decadent little dessert on my front porch with my new book. Honestly, it’s become one of my favorite ways to spend a quiet afternoon.

I mentioned this in my recent video, but lately I’ve been reading a book called Elegance, and I have been so intrigued by it. The story follows a woman named Louise who discovers a book called A Guide to Elegance. She begins using it as inspiration to clean out her closet, improve her wardrobe, and even make changes in her love life.

What makes this especially fun for me is that I actually purchased A Guide to Elegance back in 2014, never realizing that it was connected to this book. So, discovering this story now feels like such a delightful little full-circle moment.

I’m really enjoying Elegance so far. I love books that make you think about how the little choices we make—from what we wear to how we organize our homes and live our everyday lives—can influence how we feel. And there’s something especially fitting about reading it while sitting on the porch with a slice of chocolate pistachio loaf and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. That, to me, feels like a very elegant autumn afternoon.

 

 

 

 

I love an elegant ottoman, and when I spotted these on the At Home website, I knew I had to take a closer look. They are selling out like crazy, and honestly, I can see why. The value is especially impressive considering the size of these ottomans. They’re substantial, beautiful, and the kind of piece that can instantly make a room feel a little more polished. I loved them so much that I had to get two!

My next find is perfect for the season: these beautiful Kravet Folly plates. I absolutely adore the colors in this collection. Just look at all of those deep autumn shades! They feel warm, rich, and so inviting, making them perfect for both the autumn and holiday seasons.

I can already picture these on a beautifully set table with candles glowing, a delicious meal being served, and all of those cozy gatherings that make this time of year so special. They’re one of those pieces that make setting the table feel like part of the celebration.

And lastly, there’s nothing quite like fresh flowers in my green ginger jar. The cherry blossom motif is one of my favorite designs, and having a beautiful arrangement sitting in it this week was such a treat.

I especially love having fresh flowers on the table while I enjoy my tea and breakfast. There’s something about starting the weekend this way that feels so peaceful and luxurious, even if it’s just a quiet morning at home. It’s one of those simple pleasures that never gets old.

And with that, I hope you all enjoyed my favorites for this month! September has been filled with so many little things that have brought me joy—from fall fashion and beautiful home finds to seasonal treats, a good book, and fresh flowers.

My newsletter will be hitting your inboxes soon, so be sure to keep an eye out. Until then, I hope you find a few little things to enjoy and make your own September a bit more beautiful.

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What Travel Taught Me This Season

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Good Morning Everyone!

I cannot believe how quickly this month has gone by—truly! I am still trying to catch up from all of my travels, but in the midst of unpacking, getting back into my routine, and reflecting on everything I have experienced, I realized just how much this season of travel has taught me.

I talked about some of it in my recent YouTube video, but I also wanted to capture my thoughts here. There is something about writing things down that allows me to slow down and really reflect on what I have learned.

I thought I was learning how to travel, but I ended up learning a lot about myself.

I learned how I like to eat when I am away from home, how much rest I really need, what I actually need to pack, what makes an accommodation feel comfortable, and even how I like to spend my time when I am not in my own space.

  • How I like to live away from home —The photo above is the view from my room. It overlooked the courtyard of the training facility where we were staying. It was early in the morning, and everything was quiet and beautiful.

    I had just finished my morning devotional and was taking a few deep breaths before heading down to the treadmill. In that moment, I found myself appreciating the stillness. There was nowhere I needed to rush to just yet. I could simply sit, take in the view, breathe, and prepare myself for the day ahead.

    Those quiet moments have become some of my favorite parts of traveling. They remind me that even when I am away from home and my schedule is full, I can still create little moments of peace and maintain the routines that keep me grounded.

  • How I like to eat —One of the things I truly enjoy about traveling is trying new restaurants. I don’t always get the opportunity to explore different cuisines when I am at home. My husband isn’t particularly adventurous when it comes to food, so when I travel, I feel like I have a little more freedom to explore and try things I might not otherwise order.

    My colleagues and I especially enjoy going to Thai restaurants, and I have had the chance to try different types of sushi and dishes that are completely new to me. I love looking at a menu and thinking, I’ve never tried that before—let’s see what it’s like!

    There is something about being away from home that makes me feel a little more adventurous when it comes to food. I don’t have my usual routines or familiar choices surrounding me, so I give myself permission to explore.

    Honestly, I feel truly free when it comes to food when I travel. And I have discovered that some of my favorite travel memories have happened sitting around a table, trying something new, sharing a meal, and enjoying good conversation with the people I am traveling with.

 

  • Conversations with travelers —It has been so interesting listening to other travelers talk about their journeys and experiences. On one trip, I overheard a gentleman sharing that he had just run a marathon in Japan and was now on his way to Poland. I thought that was fascinating. Everyone you meet seems to have a story, a destination, and a reason for being there.

    I love hearing different languages, meeting new people, and learning a little about where others have been and where they are going. There is something special about being surrounded by people from different places and backgrounds. Travel has reminded me that the world is so much bigger than my everyday routine, and sometimes all it takes is a simple conversation to give you a glimpse into someone else’s world. 

  • Packing —I loved the pieces that traveled with me on my trips. My Travel with Elegance post is a glimpse into how I live beautifully and comfortably while away from home—and a guide to bringing a little elegance wherever you go.

Travel has shaped the way I see the world and, perhaps even more importantly, the way I see myself. Wherever the next journey takes me, I hope to continue traveling with intention, living with elegance, and remaining open to all that each new experience has to teach me.

 

 

The Guest Room: A Long-Awaited Finish

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Welcome September!

I already feel like this month is flying by. I have even started thinking about my Christmas shopping and making my holiday lists. It will all be here before we know it!

This past week, I spent a whole day ALONE in my home, and honestly, it was such a treat. There is something so wonderful about having the house to yourself—no schedule, no interruptions, and plenty of time to enjoy the little things.

Last weekend, I was able to start and finish my guest bedroom, and I have to say, it felt so good to finally check this project off my list. This room has been on my radar for months, and I am so glad I finally made the time to bring it all together.

I wanted the space to feel elegant, feminine, comfortable, and welcoming—the kind of room where guests can come in, close the door, and feel right at home.

And now that it is finished, I can’t wait to share it with you.

Come on in and see my new guest bedroom… 🕊️🌷

This is how the room started. And honestly, this picture was taken after I had already cleared out a few things!

This room belonged to my stepsons for the first eight years we lived in this home. They each had a separate bed, along with some basic furniture, and it worked perfectly for them while they were here.

Once they moved out, though, I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do with the space. I knew I wanted to eventually make it into something beautiful, but I wasn’t in any hurry to decide.

At one point, I decided to give the room to my husband and told him he could make it his “man cave.” Well…that idea didn’t last very long.

Before I knew it, he was simply dumping his things in there with no real plan, and the room was quickly becoming a storage room. 😂

That was when I decided it was time to take the room back.

I finally looked at him and said, “No. This is the second biggest bedroom in the house. I am NOT going to let you turn it into a storage room!”

And just like that, the guest bedroom project was born.

Looking back, I’m actually glad I waited. I needed some time to figure out what I wanted this room to feel like. And once I finally had a vision, I couldn’t wait to get started.

I am so proud of how this space came together. What I love most is that I didn’t go out and buy everything brand new. I wanted the room to feel collected, personal, and timeless, so I used things I already had, mixed in some vintage finds, and searched for pieces that had just the right character.

I started with the bed frame, which I found on Facebook Marketplace for about $175. I knew from the beginning that I wanted something with a vintage feel, so I was on the hunt for quite a while. When I came across this one, I knew it was exactly what I had been looking for. The carved details and old-fashioned charm became the perfect starting point for the room.

Next came the mattress, which I also found on Facebook Marketplace. I happened to find a very nice gentleman who was selling brand-new mattresses out of a warehouse. The mattress was wonderful, and he provided excellent customer service. I always love finding a great deal, especially when the quality is there!

The linens were already tucked away in my closet. I love shopping my own home and rediscovering things I already own. Sometimes you don’t need something new—you just need to look at what you have with fresh eyes.

The tufted bench at the foot of the bed is another piece with a little history. I purchased it during Covid and actually shared it here on the blog back in 2020. It’s funny how pieces can sit in your home for years and then suddenly find their perfect place.

And then there is the Venetian mirror, which I found at an antique store last year. I knew I wanted to incorporate a beautiful vintage mirror into the room, and this one adds just the right amount of elegance and sparkle.

This little table has been in my office for more than five years. It was given to me by my father-in-law, so it has always had a special place in my home. I had actually considered getting rid of it, but once I decided to create the guest bedroom, I knew I could give it a new purpose.

Sometimes the pieces we are ready to part with just need a second chance!

I kept the table just as it was and simply added a storage basket to the bottom shelf. It was such an easy addition, but it gives guests a convenient place to tuck away a few things while keeping the room neat and organized.

The beautiful blue and white vase was a Christmas gift from my daughter-in-law and stepson. I love having pieces in my home that have a story behind them, and this one adds the perfect touch of blue to the room.

The lamp was a more recent find. I came across this Wedgwood lamp at an antique store and got it at a phenomenal price. I couldn’t pass it up! The classic design fits beautifully with the vintage feel I was creating in the room.

And, of course, I wanted the nightstand to feel a little more like a guest experience rather than simply a place to put a lamp. I added a beautiful candle and some bed linen spray to make the space feel extra special.

Those little touches are important to me. When someone stays in our home, I want them to feel welcomed and cared for. A candle, fresh linens, a lovely scent, and a few thoughtful details can make a bedroom feel less like a spare room and more like a beautiful little retreat.

The last areas I added to the room were, of course, places to sit. I love when a bedroom has more than just a bed—it makes the space feel like a true retreat and gives guests a cozy spot to sit and relax.

I decided to keep my green settee in this room. I don’t know if any of you remember this piece, but I purchased it from Facebook Marketplace a few years ago. It has moved around a bit, but I knew it would be perfect in this room.

I absolutely love it tucked into the corner with a few decorative pillows and my faux cherry blossom tree. The green adds a beautiful pop of color against all of the softer neutrals in the room, and I think the combination feels both elegant and inviting.

I also moved my vintage armchair into the room, and I couldn’t be happier with it here. The vintage fabric is what really makes this chair special. It has so much character and is truly one of a kind.

I love that both of these pieces were things I already owned. Rather than starting from scratch, I was able to shop my own home and find new ways to use pieces that I already loved.

And I think that’s one of the best parts of decorating a home. Sometimes you don’t need to buy something new—you just need to look at what you already have with a fresh perspective. 

I recently added this vintage bird and floral pillow cover, which just arrived from Amazon. I think it looks lovely in the room. The soft colors and delicate pattern fit right in with the vintage, feminine feel I was going for.

And I couldn’t possibly have a guest bedroom without a throw blanket. I love having throws throughout my home. They add warmth, softness, and another layer to a room—and let’s be honest, there is nothing better than having an extra blanket nearby when you’re a guest!

I still can’t quite believe that I finally have a guest bedroom. This has been on my home list—and honestly, my life list—for such a long time. I’ve always dreamed of having a beautiful space where family and friends could come, stay awhile, and feel completely at home.

Now, after years of thinking about it, planning it, and slowly collecting the pieces, it’s finally here.

And perhaps that’s what I love most about this room. It’s not just another decorated room in our home. It’s a space created with hospitality in mind. A place where I can welcome the people I love and make them feel special.

To me, that’s another beautiful way to bring elegance into your home.

Because true elegance isn’t just about how beautiful your home looks. It’s about how beautifully you make people feel when they are there. 🕊️

My previous blog post from 2014 is here. 

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A New York Day at The Plaza, Love Shack Fancy & Ralph Lauren

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Hello Friends,

I feel like I can finally breathe a little. I just finished my last work trip of 2026, and with September officially here, it feels like I can slow down just a bit.

I recently filmed an end-of-summer video for YouTube, and I’ll be sharing it on my channel soon. Lauren is all moved in and has officially started her senior year of college, which is hard to believe!

I also finally finished the guest bedroom, and I’m so excited to share it with you. And just like that, I’ll be kicking off the Guild show house season here soon. There is always something happening this time of year, and I’m looking forward to sharing it all with you.

Before we move too far into September, I wanted to finish sharing a little more from my New York trip. There were so many beautiful places I visited while I was there, but I especially wanted to take you along to a few of the stores that caught my eye—The Plaza, Love Shack Fancy, and Ralph Lauren.

Each one had its own unique New York charm, and together they made for such a fun and inspiring day in the city.

 

photo credit: Mrs. Shockley 

 

Of course, I couldn’t help but stop by the Ralph Lauren store while I was in New York. I absolutely love the women’s side—it truly is a dream. This was my second time visiting, and I actually shared my first tour of the store back in 2022.

There is so much to love about the space, and I found myself taking in all of the details and drawing plenty of inspiration for my own dressing room. From the beautiful displays to the timeless interiors, it is one of those places where you could spend hours just taking it all in.

After looking around, we headed downstairs to the pastry shop for lattes and a few pastries. We found seats in the gorgeous café and enjoyed our treats before heading back out into the city. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next up was LoveShackFancy, and while I’ll admit the clothes are a little young for me, I absolutely fell in love with the store itself. The interiors are a dream—so feminine, romantic, and filled with the prettiest details. From the floral wallpaper and draped fabrics to the antique-inspired furniture, beautiful chandeliers, and fresh flowers, every corner felt thoughtfully styled. I found myself taking more inspiration from the decor than the clothing! There were so many little details that I’m filing away for future projects, especially as I continue working on my own home. It was definitely worth a stop just to take in all of the beautiful design inspiration.

 

 

 

 

 

The last place we visited was The Plaza, and I have to say, walking up to the hotel and stepping inside felt like something out of a dream. The architecture, the details, and the history of the space are absolutely beautiful, and I’m so glad I had the chance to see it in person. But if I’m being completely honest, something felt a little off during our visit. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but I never really felt welcomed or comfortable there. We stopped into the gift shop, and at one point I got the feeling that the woman working there thought I was stealing. Shortly after, a security guard came into the area and seemed to be looking around, even though my family and I were the only ones in the shop. Perhaps I misread the situation, and I certainly don’t want to assume anyone’s intentions, but it left me with an uncomfortable feeling. As beautiful as The Plaza is, I left feeling like it just wasn’t a place I would choose to visit again. Sometimes you can’t quite explain a feeling—you just know when something doesn’t feel right.

Despite the feeling I had at The Plaza, our trip to New York this year turned out to be such a wonderful adventure. We made so many special memories as a family, and that is what I will remember most.

We took Lauren to the Museum of the Moving Image, where she got to see the Jim Henson exhibition featuring the Muppets. She was absolutely in heaven! She also discovered a store called Museum of Nostalgia, which was right up her alley. She has such a love for the 80s, which I have to admit I find so interesting, but I love seeing the things that make her happy.

We also had some wonderful meals, spent time with dear friends, and simply enjoyed being together in the city. New York always seems to have something new to discover, and even with a few unexpected moments, this trip was one we will remember fondly.

I certainly hope I get the chance to visit New York again soon. There is still so much I want to see, do, and, of course, shop!

 

 

 

 

August Favorites ~ 2026

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Hello Everyone,

I hope you’ve been enjoying the little snippets of our recent trip to New York. I have to say, I really loved walking around the city this time. For a few moments, I pretended that I actually lived there—and I have to admit, I could easily get used to it!

There were so many wonderful stores, restaurants, and endless options to explore. I loved every bit of it. One thing I really hoped to find was an antique store, but sadly, I didn’t quite make it to one this time. I’ll just have to save that adventure for my next visit!

It’s time for another round of monthly favorites! From beautiful finds for the home to little luxuries I’ve been enjoying, these are a few things that have made their way into my life lately.

 

photo credits: Mrs. Shockley 

 

First up is this gorgeous blue-and-white ginger jar I found at HomeGoods. It’s quite large, and I absolutely love the shape. It feels so different from the other jars I have, and the design actually has a vintage look that I really adore. Needless to say, I had to bring it home!

Then, after getting back from NYC, I stopped by Consign by Design and found this beautiful crystal vase for only $40. It’s huge, too, and I love how substantial it feels. I’m thinking about putting a candle inside to give it a little extra glow. It’s one of those unexpected finds that makes decorating so much fun!

 

 

Third is this beautiful table setting at Dior in New York. This is honestly one of my favorite things to shop for—and simply to look at. I will always love shopping for clothes and shoes, but lately, shopping for dinnerware has become a new favorite of mine. There is something so special about finding beautiful pieces that make everyday meals feel a little more elevated.

And to the right is a little self-care moment. Lately, I’ve been trying to light candles at night while I’m in bed watching YouTube, and it has quickly become one of my favorite rituals. There is something about the soft glow and beautiful scent that makes the evening feel extra cozy.

Here, I’m burning Diptyque Tuberose alongside Nabela Noor’s Manor White Musk candle. Both are absolutely beautiful and make the perfect pairing for a quiet night in.

 

 

Continuing with home décor, I’ve been trying to find a beautiful way to organize my bangles and bracelets on my vanity. I’ve tried several different solutions, but somehow, they always seem to make the space feel cluttered.

Then, while browsing an antique store, I came across this gorgeous vintage soup tureen. I immediately loved it and, of course, did not want to leave it behind. But lately, I’ve started asking myself a few questions whenever I’m shopping at antique stores: “Okay, where is this going?” “How will it work in my everyday life?” and “Can I actually use it?”

With this piece, I started thinking about my vanity—and those bracelets. Then it hit me: why not use the soup tureen as storage for my bangles and bracelets?

And honestly, how beautiful and chic is that? I love finding ways to give vintage pieces a new purpose, especially when they can be both functional and beautiful. Now my bracelets are organized, easily accessible, and displayed in a way that feels intentional rather than cluttered. It’s exactly the kind of home décor find I love.

 

 

 

 

Here is one of the bracelets that is now happily living in my vintage soup tureen. I found this acrylic tortoise-shell bracelet on Amazon, and I love the combination of the warm tortoise-shell pattern with the gold detail. It’s comfortable to wear, easy to style, and, best of all, it’s at a great price. It’s one of those accessories that looks much more expensive than it actually is.

Next up are these gorgeous tassels that I ordered. I love using them as bag charms on my Hermès-inspired bags. They add such a chic little finishing touch and make the bags feel even more special. I love how something as simple as a tassel can completely change the look of a bag!

 

 

Now for one of my NYC Madison Avenue purchases. I decided to step inside Loro Piana and have a look around, and I’m so glad I did. I first learned about the brand through Lydia Millen and the Duchess of Sussex, and I immediately understood the appeal. Everything felt beautifully simple, exceptionally well made, and incredibly elegant.

Naturally, I found myself gravitating toward the scarves, where I discovered the Enciclopedia del Cardo Tie Band. I was immediately drawn to the beautiful botanical prints and the soft blush background. It felt feminine, timeless, and just a little unexpected.

I wore it with my striped dress to the office and absolutely loved the combination. There was something so pretty about the way the delicate flowers played against the stripes. It was one of those outfits that reminded me how much I love mixing prints when the colors and patterns complement each other.

 

 

And last, but certainly not least, are these gorgeous tortoise-shell office folders from Kate Spade that I found on Amazon. You get six file folders for just $18, which I think is such a steal. They aren’t made of paper and have a beautiful glossy finish, making them feel much more elevated than your typical office folders. Even something as practical as organizing paperwork can be chic!

I hope you all enjoyed seeing some of my favorite finds for the month of August. I can’t believe September is almost here! This month has been filled with so many fun discoveries, from home décor and accessories to little luxuries that make everyday life feel a bit more special.

I’m planning to film an end-of-summer video for my YouTube channel, but before I can officially wrap up the travel year, I have one more work trip to take. My newsletter will also be hitting your inboxes soon, so be sure to keep an eye out for that.

Thank you so much for spending a little time with me and my August favorites. Have a wonderful week!

 

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A Day at the Met: Art, History, and Inspiration in New York

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Hello Friends,

This is such a busy week! I have a few Guild meetings, Lauren’s college move-in, and a Yin Yoga class on the calendar. But, more importantly, I’m still thinking about my lovely teatime at the Lowell Hotel.

Today, I’m sharing our next New York adventure—our very first visit to the Met Museum!

 

photo credits via: Mrs. Shockley 

 

 

 

Walking into the Met was a lot to take in! For one thing, it was very crowded, but the staff was incredibly nice and funny. There were a few older women at the reception desk trying to help dozens of visitors while taking pens out of each other’s hands. LOL! It was actually pretty funny to watch.

The architecture was breathtaking as soon as we entered the building. It was absolutely beautiful, with grand spaces and exhibits everywhere you looked. There was so much to see that I wasn’t quite sure where to begin!

 

 

I didn’t take a lot of photos because I really wanted to be present and enjoy the moment. These were a few of my favorite exhibits. I especially loved the stained-glass exhibit and this beautiful mural. Even the yellow color of the wall caught my eye—it made the artwork feel even more special.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get the information about the artists or the names of these pieces, but they definitely left an impression on me.

 

 

This photo does not do this piece justice. This was designed by Agnes F. Northrop and made by Tiffany Studios, New York. It was created in 1912. It is called the Garden Landscape. This is a majestic masterpiece. Conceived, commissioned and crafted by women, it highlights the important, often unrecognized role they played in Tiffany’s artistic enterprise. This was truly a captivating piece. 

 

 

 

There were a few rooms in the museum. This is the Baltimore Room. It was a room from the townhome build for merchant and shipowner Henry Craig. It served as the Craig family’s parlor. On the right is a painting by Vincent van Gogh called Roses. It is from 1890 and is one of my favorites from him. On the eve of his departure from the asylum in Saint Remy in May 1890, Van Gogh painted an exceptional group of four still lifes, to which both The Met’s Roses and Irises belong. 

Another interesting fact about this painting is that it was seized by the Nazis from Georg Simon Hirschland (1885-1942) in Essen in 1939, following Hirschland’s emigration to the United States in 1938. It was restituted to his heirs in New York in 1950. (info from the museum) 

 

 

Next are two Claude Monet paintings. The one on the left is called the Path through the Irises (1914-17). Irises, among Monet’s favorite flowers, lined the pathways leading up to the house and Japanese bridge on the artist’s property at Giverny. 

The one on the right is Water Lilies, 1919. One of Monet’s critics described this canvas of 1919 as waterlilies “in full flower asserting themselves… their golden discs encased in purple, against the cloudy waters”. (info from the museum) 

 

 

 

The grand marble building façade at the back is the Second Branch Bank of the United States, originally constructed on Wall Street in 1822–24 and later dismantled and reconstructed inside The Met. Its Greek Revival/Palladian design—with columns, pilasters, a triangular pediment, and symmetrical windows—creates the architectural centerpiece of the court. I thought that the look of this was so majestic sitting inside the Met. The fact that it is from the 1800s is incredible! 

 

 

 

And finally the reason why I came to the Met…. Belizaire. It took Lauren and I a few minutes to find this painting but when we did I just smiled. Now I know this painting holds a lot of weight. Especially in regards to our history in this country but it also speaks the truth to me. 

This painting is called Belizaire and the Frey Children. It was attributed to the French-American painter Jacques Guillaume Lucien Amans, painted around 1837. The painting shows three white children of the Frey family in a Louisiana landscape, with a Black teenager standing behind them. That teenager is Bélizaire, an enslaved Afro-Creole boy who belonged to the Frey family. Bélizaire isn’t pushed into the background as a servant or made into a stereotypical figure. Instead, he is physically elevated above the three children, leaning against a tree and looking thoughtful and self-possessed. The Met notes that this positioning gives him unusual visual importance for an African American subject in an American painting of this period.

At some point around the turn of the 20th century, someone from the Frey family deliberately painted over Bélizaire’s figure, effectively removing him from the family portrait. For decades, the painting was known as a portrait of three children in a Louisiana landscape. Bélizaire was approximately 15 years old when the portrait was painted. The Met’s research indicates that he survived the Civil War and eventually experienced freedom. Tragically, both Frey sisters died in 1837, the year the portrait was painted, while their brother died about nine years later.

And there’s an especially powerful irony: someone tried to erase Bélizaire from the picture, but the painting ultimately became famous precisely because he was recovered. The Met acquired it in 2023. 

I truly think that the captain that enslaved him loved him. That is just my opinion. It reminds me of a story regarding one of my ancestors whose enslaver but an ad in the newspaper around the 1700s looking for him because he escaped. He wanted my relative back and said in the article that “he was incredibly smart”. Needless to say, he never found my relative. 

I hope everyone enjoyed today’s post. Let me know in the comments what your thoughts are and if you have a favorite painting at the Met. 

 

 

 

 

An Afternoon with Dior: Lily of the Valley Tea

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Good Morning Friends,

We have returned from New York! This trip was a bit more relaxed than our previous visits. I didn’t want to visit any of the usual tourist attractions this time. Instead, I wanted to slow down, wander, enjoy beautiful meals, our friends, and simply experience the city at a more leisurely pace.

I’ll be sharing our New York adventures with you over the next few weeks, so I hope you’ll come along with me. I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying these last days of summer.

We are also gearing up to move Lauren back into her dorm for her SENIOR YEAR! I can hardly believe it. How is it possible that she is already beginning her senior year of college? It seems like just yesterday we were moving her into her freshman dorm. Wow—time really does fly!

But for now, let me take you back to one of my favorite afternoons in New York.

 

photos via: Mrs. Shockley 

 

There are afternoons in New York that feel almost dreamlike, and my Lily of the Valley Christian Dior tea at The Lowell Hotel was one of them.

From the moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere felt wonderfully removed from the city outside. The hotel was elegant and intimate, with beautiful cream-colored interiors, polished details, fresh flowers, and the softest golden light. And there was a delicate floral fragrance in the air that reminded me of jasmine—subtle, fresh, and wonderfully calming. It made the entire experience feel like entering a private garden in the middle of Manhattan.

 

 

The setting was especially beautiful for afternoon tea. I settled in at a beautifully dressed table surrounded by classic New York elegance, with china, silver, fresh flowers, and the prettiest little details. Everything felt refined without being overly formal.

 

 

 

The Lily of the Valley theme brought its own sense of romance. Lily of the valley has always seemed to me like one of those flowers that represents quiet luxury: delicate, graceful, and unmistakably elegant. It was the perfect inspiration for a tea experience associated with Christian Dior.

 

 

 

And then there was the tea itself.

The beautiful Dior-inspired porcelain, the delicate floral patterns, the teapot warming gently on the table, and a cup of fragrant mandarin jasmine tea made the afternoon feel wonderfully indulgent. I loved the ritual of pouring the tea, taking my time, and simply enjoying the moment. There is something about afternoon tea that encourages you to slow down—and in New York, that feels like a luxury in itself.

 

 

The sandwiches were beautifully arranged on the bottom tier, with delicate little tea sandwiches that were almost too pretty to eat. The middle tier featured the most beautiful little desserts, including a bright lemon-colored pastry and a raspberry creation that looked like a tiny work of art.

And the top tier? More beautiful sweets, including a little cream-filled pastry and a refreshing-looking dessert served in a glass. I was absolutely smitten with the scones and Devonshire cream. Oh my goodness! Those were my favorite. 

 

 

The room added to the magic. Tall windows brought in the greenery outside, while the floral arrangements and traditional furnishings created an atmosphere that felt timeless rather than trendy. It was elegant in that very special New York way: polished, romantic, and quietly glamorous.

What I will remember most, though, is the feeling.

The jasmine-like fragrance in the air, the beautiful flowers, the Dior details, the delicate china, and a warm cup of tea in my hands all came together to create one of those little New York memories that stays with you.

Once I had finished my sandwiches, scones, and desserts, I thought our lovely tea experience had come to an end. But then my waitress surprised me with a little extra treat—Dior cookies!

They were almost too beautiful to eat. Almost. 😊

I tried so hard to save them and keep them for as long as I could. They were just so pretty, with all of their delicate details, and I knew they would make such a sweet little souvenir from our afternoon.

Well…I did eat them.

I couldn’t resist!

I knew they weren’t going to last forever, and honestly, I decided they deserved to be enjoyed rather than simply admired. They were just as delicious as they were beautiful, and they were the perfect little ending to such a special afternoon.

 

 

 

 

 

It took me a while to leave the hotel. The intoxicating scent of jasmine and the effortless elegance of the space made it surprisingly difficult to walk away. Instead, I wandered through the hotel a little longer, taking in every detail and snapping a few photos along the way.

The floral arrangements were unlike anything I had ever seen in person. Each one felt like a work of art, with layers of texture, rich colors, delicate details, and an elegance that was truly unmatched. Everywhere I looked, there was another beautiful arrangement or thoughtful detail that demanded a second glance.

 

 

I did eventually leave the hotel and make my way down Madison Avenue, stopping into a few shops along the way, including Hermès, Loro Piana, Creed, and Dior.

At Dior, I wandered into the Dior Home store, where I couldn’t resist taking a few photos of their beautifully styled table settings. As I studied the china, I found myself admiring the details and, once again, wanting another set of teacups. Everything was thoughtfully curated, right down to the fresh floral arrangements that filled the space.

The customer service was equally exceptional. There was a beautifully dressed gentleman from Venezuela who was incredibly kind and gracious. He seemed to appreciate our warmth and kindness as much as we appreciated his, and before we left, he surprised me with another set of Dior cookies. It was such a lovely and unexpected touch that made the experience even more memorable.

This was such a wonderful day and exactly what I wanted my New York trip to be—filled with beauty, peace, and genuine experiences that I would remember long after returning home.

And, of course, I couldn’t stop thinking about those beautiful Dior teacups! I eventually found and ordered a Christian Dior teacup and saucer set on eBay. I’ve included the link here if you’re interested in taking a look for yourself.

I hope you enjoyed coming along with me for this part of our New York adventure. Thank you for reading, and I’ll be back soon to share more beautiful moments and experiences from our trip!