Musings
Daubigny's Garden
Spending considerably more time fussing about in our petite pocket garden (see today's post @citrusandcedars), has me recalling one of Van Gogh's paintings. During my visit to Amsterdam, we went to the Van Gogh Museum where I was mostly enchanted by a piece titled "Daubigny's Garden" (pictured: front) painted in 1890. The piece, is characteristically Van Gogh - with oil on canvas and lush provocative brush strokes. It brings me serenity, peace and a bit of intrigue, given that this was one of the last works produced by the Dutch painter before his death. I find it perhaps comforting that he was able to take pleasure in such a beautiful garden in the last few years of his life.
Oh, What A Night!
Celebrating Mark D. Sikes and his Coastal Living Idea House in Newport, Rhode Island.
I've had a few "pinch me" moments the past few weeks. There is of course a longer, more contextual narrative to note at a later date, but it really boils down to a very special feeling that I hope will never fleet.
Feeling nurtured, inspired, challenged and respected are some of the most important things in life - all feelings everyone deserves to, and should, truly feel to their core, at least for some juncture of their life. When I was younger, I was told by a very influential mentor to "select your own board of directors in life" - both personally and professionally. As I've gotten older, I have learned how incredibly important that mentality is, and how the company you keep, truly shapes your own life perspective, approach and definition of success.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent the past few weeks with some accomplished individuals - architects, designers, artists and creators - all of whom embody the feeling I described prior. They champion for each other's successes, share their varying perspectives and experiences, and brainstorm on creative solutions for each other's work. The sense of community and unity is incredibly palpable. The authenticity and passion for their respective work is rich and never wavers.
In a strange way, in a short span of time, many of these individuals feel like family. They have taught me such a simple lesson - a beautiful one that I will always cherish.
Life is short - choose your board wisely and don't forget to celebrate the milestones along the way. Champion for and nurture others, and follow your heart and intuition.
The Allures of Amsterdam
I've just returned from a remarkable few days in Amsterdam where I visited with my Mother and Sister. Much of my Mother's family history hails from Holland, thus it made our trip all the more special. Below are just some of the highlights, and I must credit my sister, Caroline, for masterfully orchestrating all of our experiences - every meal, adventure and moment was carefully curated from her own prior travel and research.
Every time I am on the airplane en route home from any travels, I make a list of my highlights while they are still fresh and fragrant in my mind... Below are some of the highlights that stand out from the few days in the divine Dutch city:
A building lushly covered in ivy and geraniums...so classic.
A city where there are more bicycles than people....it was particularly fascinating to see parents with their small cherubs in tow, confidently riding throughout the city running their errands - even the smallest of children did not wear helmets! It's fair to say the bicyclists rule the road.
Hollyhocks & green lacquered doors were in no shortage. Every exterior door was handsomely painted with seductive, glossy paint. Needless to say, I am now coveting Hollyhocks in a whole new way!
Climbing roses and a potted boxwood flirt with the senses of any passerby. 
Tall & lean doors painted in the infamous dark green at the Hortus Botanticus.
Lush, aromatic jasmine decorates this exterior, this time, the doors painted in a Chinese lacquered red. 
The greenhouse at Restaurant De Kas, a chic garden conservatory where all ingredients are grown on-site. A "must visit" in Amsterdam.
A plump squash growing in the greenhouse at De Kas. Restaurant patrons can tour the greenhouse before or after dining, where they can view the ingredients served in the respective courses.
Garden tools at De Kas are primed and ready to harvest vegetables, nasturtiums and herbs for the chef's dishes.
Edible flowers at the Noodermarkt...presented next to a sea of luscious berries (not pictured) we bought & promptly ate. A great deal of the dishes we enjoyed were beautifully presented with varying kinds of edible flowers...true inspiration for summer cooking!
An exquisite sampling of a collection of antique French and Italian gilded gold mirrors at Anouk Beerents. Upon their monthly acquisition by the shop's proprietor and team, they are restored and preserved, accordingly.
@cheesebycarol (my sister, Caroline), outside of Kaaskamer Van Amsterdam, where she procured fine Dutch cheeses and accoutrements for her evening cheese platter, truly a work of art!
The Pulitzer Hotel's divine salon boat, built in 1909, was the perfect vessel for touring the canals. An open bar made the exploration more fanciful!
Until next time! Putting my passport back in its safe home and getting back to work! #CandCConsulting.
xx
Leontine for Lauren
Had a fun morning in New Orleans last weekend at Leontine Linens with some girlfriends and our bride-to-be, designing her hand-sewn jewelry round. New Orleans is a sentimental place for my dear friend Lauren, thus the gift felt particularly personal. Leontine is a must on Magazine Street.