Well now hello my loves. Here I am so far behind with this blog and all the generous comments. I've tried a zillion times to write and or answer emails and comments and even letters. When I try I feel overwhelmed and exhausted. Exhausted from my situation and from Covid. Maybe you can relate? There were several v touching comments that blogger won't let me respond too. I think when your blog falls into a state of inactivity things happen to it. I get the worst spam comments you can imagine. Horrible x-rated ones that I have to delete and then wonderful ones that I can't comment on. My fonts get changed and overall it's a pain and so I tend to give up and walk away. So today I'll just talk about what I've been up to.
I am well. I was exposed to the virus and had symptoms myself for about 10 days but my test came back negative. I isolated for 2 weeks and am fine now. So there is that. Also, do you remember awhile back I told you a friend of mine had purchased a big beautiful historical home just down the road from me? Well I'm decorating it! It has not been easy with shutdowns and slow shipping but it's coming along and I hope one day to be able to share it here. In the meantime you can see a few changes I've made around here. I painted the armoire because of these chinoserie panels I found. I still cannot believe I found them and they are mine! I adore them.
Because of that decorating job I've wound up making changes here. For instance she has a small office and my antique wicker desk was perfect for her. I sold it to her and that started the ball rolling. I came across this lovely french table that is perfect for the space. The truth is I've been looking for a table like this since the day we moved in. The chairs are reproductions but I love them too.
The garden is getting scorched as usual this time of year but it still is my refuge and don't know what I'd do without it. It has kept me on a routine that I need right now. As you know I don't have sprinklers so it's a big job just keeping it alive in the heat.
Is anyone doing Zoom? I am and it has been a lifesaver for me. I resisted at first but glad I gave in. I feel like I'm rambling and not making much sense so I'll end and I will really really try to get back into the routing of writing. Thank you so so much for your continuing support and love you send me. I don't deserve it. x
I like the rambling/random flow of your writing...touching on several topics, decor, personal etc. I think it's more interesting. I also like that your posts are not too long. Some words, some pictures and a little information. Fun! thanks for not giving up.
ReplyDeleteLaura
You do deserve love and support! Just like any person who is kind and nice as you are!
ReplyDeleteI'm so very lonely myself so I understand. Almost none of the people I consider friends make any effort to check in on me, but yet they do always have kind notes back as I contact them.It makes me sad that none of them reach out to me, and then I get all excited when they answer my emails. I wag my tail and jump up and down when I get a pat on the head...ha! Maybe everyone is just busier than me. Or maybe these people are all more important to me than I am to them.
I love your house and your style of decor. Don't give up on your blog in spite of difficulties. You're making people happy.
Good to hear from you again. Everything looks very nice.
ReplyDeleteYour post is lovely. Just a few words and photos are happiness for this reader.
ReplyDeleteThe panels are lovely. I am glad to hear you are well after your Covid scare. Many test results have been false, so maybe you did have it after all? We appreciate any effort you make for the readers of your charming blog. Thank you
ReplyDeleteHi Janet! Glad to hear that you are well. Your blog is a salve to me and I thank you for sharing your life with us. I'm sorry the blog is giving you a little trouble. Technology needs constant upkeep. Sometimes walking away is better than throwing your phone on the floor! Your panels are stunning and I can't wait to see your work in the historic home down the road. How exciting. Be well.
ReplyDeleteso happy to hear from you! looking forward to seeing more on the house decorating project. thank you for taking the time to post. we care.
ReplyDeleteYou are so deserving of love and support! And I have to tell you- you may have saved my life. Wayyy back when I first started reading your blog, you were mentioning being vegan and had some resources, recipes- I remember thinking, well I could never do that. But some health issues kept coming up and I started reading and researching...I now eat whole food, plant based and miraculously, no more arthritis, no more migraines. My eyesight is even better! Maybe I would've come around on my own eventually, but you were the one that got the ball rolling. Thank you for that.
ReplyDeleteAnd I can't wait to see the home you're redecorating- is there anything more fun than a good makeover? I love them.
Sending love,
SE
Janet it is so wonderful to hear your voice. I can't believe all that you have been through that you suffered through Covid as well. You are a trouper. I am so glad you have been doing a little decorating it is good for the soul. The armoire looks great. We have all had you in our hearts.
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking about you daily and always check to see if you've posted. I can't begin to imagine your loneliness and how you're dealing with your grief but I hope you're finding a way to recreate a life that gives you peace. Like the comment above, I use your recipes every week and am so grateful for them especially since I was totally lost when becoming a vegan. Please know we all care and, hopefully, you'll be able to figure out your technical difficulties. I know you mentioned that Larry always helped you and it makes me sad that you have to deal with this craziness alone...xo Janie
ReplyDeleteThanks Janet. Lots of love from Umbria, Robin
ReplyDeleteI was just tickled when I saw your post in my inbox! Thank you for posting, and letting us know you're on the mend. Love the armoire's new color.
ReplyDeleteIt is so nice to hear from you and to see your lovely home once again. It’s been a trying year, hasn’t it?And yet we are getting through it. I’m sorry you had a COVID experience. I’ve been locked down since June at my son’s home in Massachusetts awaiting the birth of his son who arrived Saturday. So in the midst of all this chaos, we found some joy. It is my sincerest hope that you will too.
ReplyDeleteI miss your blogging dear Janet....always from your heart which is the best way to live. So much has been thrown at all of us, yet despite the current situation, I do believe that hope will prevail and we will look back on the past 4 years as one big virus that we had to overcome. Stay well....
ReplyDeleteHello janet from Devon, England. Thanks for your post (which was lovely and resonant as usual).
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness- just when I think your home can't get any lovelier, you go and hang up beautiful panels, paint an armoire, and re-do the dining area! You never cease to amaze me!! Cannot wait to see the historical home you are decorating. Seriously wish I could hire you to decorate my home and plant a gorgeous garden in my yard! So happy to see your post today. I have missed you.
ReplyDeleteYou deserve all the love that you get! Stay healthy and I hope you find peace and joy.
ReplyDeleteI have that table and those chairs!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteTable I had in my shop and the chairs came from COST PLUS now you see them everywhere!!
I was just chatting YOU up yesterday with a woman in Tennessee named JUDITH!
AND here you are...........XX
Thank you, Contessa. I tried leaving a comment and it didn't work for some reason :) So glad to see this post, Janet. You are a treasure and I hope you will keep up with the blog, even if it's only every few weeks. You DO deserve the love.
DeleteJudith
So good to hear from you and hear what's been going on in your life, though I'm sorry to hear you were sick from Covid-like symptoms...or who knows, maybe even Covid itself. I've read about so many false-positive results and vice-versa. It's hard to know who or what to believe anymore. Stay safe and well. xoxo
ReplyDeleteAlways good to see and read a post from you. What you found rambling was really quite coherent and interesting. I'm glad you're feeling better from your COVID-like symptoms. Hang in there - "Time just takes time."
ReplyDeleteAlways good to see and read a post from you. What you found rambling was really quite coherent and interesting. I'm glad you're feeling better from your COVID-like symptoms. Hang in there. "Time just takes time."
ReplyDeleteYour home looks lovely, Janet. I hit jackpot when you found those beautiful panels. I would definitely rearrange my room to have those beauties too. I’m sorry you were ill. It’s such a stressful time we’re going through. I know many that have had the virus and some that haven’t recovered. Yes, I do zoom. It’s been a God send. In the spring I actually tuned in for a church book club once a week. And here we are getting ready to start up again in September. Who would have ever guessed? It offers calm and som clarity to my life. Which reminds me...I LOVE your statue. I have a bit of an obsession with religious statues. Anyway, I always zoom with family across the country to play games. My son always hated FaceTime but now every Sunday he FaceTimes. It’s so nice. I said to my daughter I think your brother worries he better check in with the old folks! She replied He’s probably just checking to make sure your home!! Haha I’m actually more fearful now then when this all started. Some people are very cautious so I feel I need to be extra careful. OK, sorry now I’m the one rambling. I guess staying home all the time is showing hahaha
ReplyDeletePeace and stay well,
Kathy
I am "over the moon" happy to see a post from you! I wish you joy and excellent health.
ReplyDeleteIt is a joy to see your post and know that you are well. I love the panels and painted armoire, it looks beautiful. Gardening has been a wonderful outlet for so many of us cooped up during this pandemic.
ReplyDeleteOh, how I've missed your posts, but completely understand with all that you and your family have gone through. I cannot believe there are trolls that would send you awful comments. I pity people like that that have nothing better to do in their lives. I love the painted armoire and the screens. You have such great style.
ReplyDeleteTake care and stay well.
xo,
Karen
Along with everyone else, I was excited to see a post from you. I understand that at times the effort involved can stop us in our tracks...I think that's pretty normal for everyone. I love the armoire in a lighter color & it blends well with everything...especially the panels. It sounds like working on the historic home is a blessing to you, as I'm sure you are a blessing to the homeowner. Can't wait to see pics. I've also done some Zoom with family who live in other states & it was fun. It sounds as though you had Covid in spite of the negative test result. My Lyme test was negative, but I had all the symptoms & a clear bullseye rash on my arm. They do the best they can, but it isn't perfect. Hang in there Janet!
ReplyDelete...all is grace!
Yes you do deserve plenty of love and good wishes..... I have enjoyed your blog for many years, and was happy to see a post in my email today. Stay safe and well and do your best - that's all we can do ! You are loved...
ReplyDeletethe last commenter says it all.
ReplyDeleteyou are loved!
stay safe darling AJJ!
So Wonderful to hear from you. I think of you often and always wondered how you were. Sounds like you are doing well and found your purpose. Stay safe and we all love to hear from you.
ReplyDeleteSo wonderful to see a new post from you, dear Janet! Am so very happy that you did not have a serious case of COVID. I think St. Therese was watching over you! Love the changes you have made in your home. There have been several negative things that have popped up in our lives as well. I try to overlook them, focus on the positive & on all the wonderful blessings we do have & move on. You have such a dear, gentle spirit, Janet & you deserve every thought of love sent your way & I'm sure many others would echo those words. Sending LOVE & a big hug! Katie from Huntington Beach xxoo
ReplyDeleteReally so good to see this pop up today! I'm glad you got through the symptoms and are feeling well. Sorry to hear of technology issues. So frustrating. These times has been hard on everyone. I keep trying to see the good and what can be learned from it.
ReplyDeleteThe changes on the home front look good. I have never thought any of your posts were rambling I guess because I really enjoy your perspective and input and thoughts along with all the beautiful pictures.
Be well. And I'll chime in with the others ... you are loved!
Seeing your new post in my email brought a smile to my face. I'm so happy you are finding beauty and a way to keep busy that feeds you. Blessings to you as you continue on your journey.
ReplyDeleteSo happy to see you back! We've all missed you so much!
ReplyDeletewhy would people be picking on you with nasty spam? You are the most gentle person! You blog is quite comforting to read Your cottage is beautiful. Glad you are feeling better now
ReplyDeleteGood Morning and thank you for the post. It was a lovely surprise and I couldn’t wait to open it. And, as another writer mentioned, it was just long enough, it was simple and authentic, and it was a perfect note on which to start my day! (We never really know the impact that we have on others! Thank you.)
ReplyDeleteThank you for these lovely words and photos. I woke up way too early today and wondered blearily what to do. And here you are with a peek into your life and times and I feel cheered and inspired already. I'm sad to hear about the trolls and all the technical issues. When our skin is thin, even the smallest obstacle and negativity is too much. And ugly comments and computer problems are no small thing. I'm so happy your creative energy is coming back, bit by bit. Baby steps will bring you eventually back "home". Sending love and gratefulness for this sweet and perfect post. You're a treasure. xo karen
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear from u! Grief is such an difficult journey... just write when u can and know your following are praying for u!
ReplyDeleteSo lovely to see your post Janet and happy you are well. I really like the fresh light look of your home. these are such challenging times, sometimes it does not feel real. I hope you are not in any danger from the fires, another awful aspect of this strange time. My family and I did manage a week's vacation to Chincoteague Island in Virginia at the end of July. all the usual events of Pony week had been cancelled of course. but there was still the beach and the wildlife refuge, so we decided to brave the trip, even though it meant we each had to quarantine for two weeks upon our return. I registered upon my return and a contact tracer called me daily to see how I was doing. fortunately, everyone in my family is fine. For me it is the small things that bring some measure of joy. yesterday I was up early and while I sat on my patio a pair of woodpeckers came to the feeder my next door neighbors had put up on their Birch tree. I am always happy to hear from you, whatever and whenever that may be. Love,
ReplyDeleteDarby
I adore those panels and would love to know more about where you found them. I feel like there's a story behind them. I'm glad you're feeling better. It sounds like your blog platform has been really stressful but it's great to read your updates and I'm sure that as much as we would love to get responses to our comments, we wouldn't want you to feel stressed out about not replying. Just keep posting and know that there are people who enjoy hearing from you.
ReplyDeleteIt's so ironic because just yesterday I looked up your blog and your IG to see if you had posted lately. And then today, this appears. It is so nice to hear from you. I'm glad you are doing well and also honoring your feelings about things. And yes, the technical side of blogging can be a real drag. Take care!
ReplyDeleteSo So glad to see your post today! I was thinking of you last night and how we had not had a post from you in a while and then boom, there you are in my inbox! Glad to see it and know that you are okay. This has certainly been a strange year and so many of us have other things going on as well. I am so glad you are well and I love all the nesting changes you have made. I certainly hope to see your friends home when you put your touches on it! I am glad you are enjoying it! Please take care and know that we all care and you deserve all the love that comes your way and more!
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear that you are feeling better and posted. Look at the happiness and care that followed! Take care!
ReplyDeleteYour blog followers so appreciate your sharing of your world, your sensitivity and the beauty you create around you. All the best during this crazy time and always!
ReplyDeleteJanet....The panels,those panels.....Oh my god....I am swooning.
ReplyDeleteBernadette
I'm so glad to hear from you! I'm sorry you got the plague, but I'm glad you recovered. So many people have lingering symptoms. My husband is reading a book about the 1917/18 flu epidemic, and so many things have been the same with Covid that we're fully expecting autumn and then January to be awful again. I started a new job at the place where I've volunteered for years, but three days later we left the office! I've been working at home five days a week since mid-March, and darned grumpy about it. I keep whining to myself "this isn't what I signed up for!" but we need the money and there it is. I think it's getting better. I sneak out to the grocery store once a week , and to Target for paper towels and other things every couple weeks, but other than that I'm home. I've enjoyed my butterfly garden so much this year! Love the armoir, and I love your table and chairs. Very pretty.
ReplyDeleteYou DO deserve us and all the love. The panels are the bomb; they have life, with one bird looking to the other.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry you've been ill; such a scary time. I seem to just flail around, one day blending into the next, although very aware that the days are also slipping by too fast when I'm not doing what I want to be doing due to a Covid world. Life in limbo.
And I can't be in my SoCalif garden right now because it's simply too hot; the weather is awful, and so much smoke in the air from wildfires. We barely saw the sun today due to the cloak of smoke (although, of course, we still get the heat of August).
So, I long for Fall now, for the weather to cool off, and maybe dearest Janet will throw an autumn recipe our way. I seem to go in and out of a pumpkin state of mind lately.
So good to hear from you, Janet. Glad you're doing okay, and the Covid scare is behind you. Love the changes in your home - looks so light and beautiful. Zoom has been a lifeline for me too. Who would've guessed? Sending virtual hugs to you - yes, you deserve it.
ReplyDeleteI almost didn't check in today to see if you'd posted, but so glad I did. So sorry you've been ill, but glad you're now feeling a little better. Your chinoiserie panels and painted armoire look great. Looking forward to seeing your friend's home when it's finished and so glad for her that she has you to help and for you that you have a great project. Don't worry if you think you are rambling, just continue. We all love a good ramble, especially from you.
ReplyDeleteSusan D
your cottage looks lovely! You must be having fun decorating your friend’s large mansion! I am eager to see what you are doing! Thank you for the blog post...think of you often and when I see a new post I feel like it is a wee gift!
ReplyDeleteXO
glad to hear from you! be well. love your blog.
ReplyDeleteI totally understand the joy of a good find, such as your panels. Congrats! So glad too to hear that you recovered from what sounds like Covid (eeks!) and are working on projects utilizing your talent for decorating. Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteAnn
P.S. You deserve every bit of kindness that comes your way.
It's always a good day when there is a new post from you! The panels are lovely and the armoire looks great. Is it still red inside?
ReplyDeleteSo far we've managed to avoid covid but several friends had it. They were so very sick. Glad you're over it.
Can't wait to see the historic house!❤
Dear Janet, it's so lovely to have you back again. You have a 'soft' way of writing about your life and it is very calming to read. I love your style and your restraint in decorating too. So glad you are well. It must have been a worrying time. X
ReplyDeleteUm, yes you do deserve it, Janet. You are loved, and that is clear from reading the comments. Your readers appreciate your way of communicating and sharing beauty. I am so excited to hear about your decorating project at the new house! I know you will enjoy that. And I hope the blog problems clear up, so that I can start receiving your posts in my in-box. Thanks so much to the Contessa for sharing this with me. Keep up the good work, Janet.
ReplyDeleteKind Regards,
Judith
Lovely to see you. I had checked the other day then suddenly you are back. Great news.
ReplyDeleteI'll swap my North England rain for your sunshine. I need some warmth on my skin.
I just wanted to say hello and wish you all the best. I used to follow many blogs back in the early days of the JCA and I always loved your creative talent and authenticity. Sending positive thoughts and courage during the pandemic. Your home/lifestyle blog is always an inspiration.
ReplyDeleteI love hearing about how you have decorated your house and would enjoy very much if you elaborated on all of your beautiful pieces of furniture and decor, where you get them (not necessarily your specific source per se but general info) as I love hearing their stories.
ReplyDeleteme!
ReplyDeleteLove it all!
This is a weird time, I give myself heaps of self-love, and try to connect with people on Zoom, or back yards.
Good morning Janet ... you bring such joy to those of us who have connected on your blog over the years. I was so happy to see your post this morning and the little snippet of life you shared. Always a treasure. Your words and photos somehow are always inspiring and re-inspiring me!! Please know that you truly have the gift of connecting people which is quite rare in today's world. I echo other readers who love your simple recipes, simple home and garden. I've mentioned before I used to live in Redlands so your blog brings back fond memories as well. Stay well, be blessed and share as you are inspired. Even the little posts mean a lot. xo
ReplyDeleteJanet : thank you for posting this . . . sometimes we are in a position to do and not to explain or reply and that's okay. You always are filled with purpose and kindness. I only can imagine the joy your own interior projects have brought . . . love everything and can be sure your neighbor/client is thrilled to be guided by your keen design instincts. Our gardens always can be simply a refuge . . . like us during rough times, they simply need to rest and get by . . . sorry for your health scare . . . you have my wishes for wellness for you and yours this day forward.
ReplyDeleteJust got back from a small vacation and was so happy to see a post from you...sorry you had to deal with the whole Covid thing. Glad to hear you are okay.
ReplyDeleteI love the panels, they are perfect! Can't wait to see how you work your magic on your friend's home.
As yes you deserve the love and support, I can't think of anyone who deserves it more. :o)
Linda
xoxo
Janet,
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful surprise to see your post today, exactly what I needed. You are certainly not behind on your blog, please just pick up again wherever you are, I’ve missed your posts terribly. Happy to hear you are feeling well again and have a creative outlet in decorating for your friend as well as your own beautiful home. Sending love 💗 Beth
Janet, I have followed you for a few years but have never commented because I really wasn't sure how to do it!! Hopefully this works! I was so very happy to find your post today!! You are such an amazing person and I admire you so much!! Please know you have another follower that so enjoys seeing your sweet posts!! I also live in Redlands and love this town!! I truly hope you continue blogging and sharing your story with us!!
ReplyDeleteJanet, I have followed you for a few years but have never commented because I really wasn't sure how to do it!! Hopefully this works! I was so very happy to find your post today!! You are such an amazing person and I admire you so much!! Please know you have another follower that so enjoys seeing your sweet posts!! I also live in Redlands and love this town!! I truly hope you continue blogging and sharing your story with us!!
ReplyDeleteYAY, you’re back!!! You deserve everything nice the world can offer. I hope you believe that because it is true. I love those panels, too!
ReplyDeleteThank you always for your beautiful blog. I always love seeing your house and reading your comments and observations. My heart aches for what I know you’re going through.
ReplyDeleteYou're right in whatever you feel or want or don't want to do. You've been through very tough times. So know we're always here for you and support you. I think it's exciting that your decorating a house. Good for you.
ReplyDeleteThe panels are lovely and your house always looks so serene, a real refuge in these troubling times. Ignore those unpleasant people who are trying to upset you, they are in the minority, most folk are nice and your posts are always much enjoyed.
ReplyDeleteI am looking forward to seeing what you are up to in the house down the road!
Good Morning Janet - Just wanted to say hello. I've followed your blog for years and enjoy your writing style -It is so genuine. My husband passed away just recently - we were married 40 years. I understand now your need to have a safe place where the pain of losing your spouse isn't mentioned. I just want a place to feel "normal" again (if there is such a thing). I hope you are having fun with your friend decorating her house. I actually have had a side business for years doing the same thing...mainly helping friends but a few "clients" that were referred... Excited to see what you did for your friend!! Post soon - miss your blog!
ReplyDeleteI just love that you keep writing when you can💕
ReplyDeleteLove the paint color with your special treasures.
I am glad your feeling better. I was surprised to find I caught the virus. Took a while to get over but I’m thankful I’m good .
I have been concerned about the fires your way💕. Thank you for your ramblings.. they keep a little brightness in these days💕. Thank you.
Hope you are well, Janet. We miss you. ❤
ReplyDeleteHi Janet, just popping in to say hello and to let you know that I really miss your lovely blog posts. Hope you are well.
ReplyDeleteMissing your blog posts! Hope you are healthy & safe.
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to say hi & hope you are well. Read in the LA Times that fires were now burning near Redlands so hope all is ok at your home. Sending love & hugs. Miss your posts! Katie from Huntington Beach
ReplyDeleteI echo the above-so miss your posts and hope you are well.
ReplyDeleteMe, too....I miss your insight and humor and honest reflection.....I check daily to see if you've posted even though I subscribe. I, too, hope you are well. xo Janie
ReplyDelete