A recent purchase has been the catalyst in bringing a new chest into the foyer.
I switched out the smaller chest that had previously been there, for one that is a little bit larger, allowing me to display my new french girl!
A couple of weeks ago we made a trip down South to the Gulf Coast area and while we were there we did a little bit of antiquing.
I found several things for the shop, and of course, one special piece for me….a gorgeous plaster frenchy girl statue.
She has such a fabulous look and I had to bring her home with me. She holds a rose in her left hand and a “love letter” in her other hand, hidden behind her back.
She is signed on the bottom of the base “L. Dubini”, so she may actually be Italian and not French. I’ve done some research on her, but it hasn’t resulted in any information.
I wanted to place her on the chest in the foyer, but the chest that I had there was a little too small, so I brought in a chest that I’ve had for years, and it’s one that I’ve always loved.
This chest has traveled cross country with me several times, and it’s one of my favorite pieces, purchased many years ago.
It’s painted in all my favorite colors, in a beautiful seascape design, and the best part….the feet!
The top was just the right size to display my new girl, as well as a couple of other things like a lamp and some flowers.
I have the perfect place in the study to use the smaller chest, once the renovation is finished, which hopefully won’t be long.
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While I’ve been finishing up the study renovation, hubby has started stripping down the formal living room and prepping it for renovation.
This is what the living room looked like when we bought the house.
We have removed the old pink shag carpet, the forty year old drapes, and the old electric baseboard heating units.
It has great mouldings on the walls, a curved window on the front, and a beautiful fireplace.
It’s in desperate need of an update!
We’ll start with the old popcorn ceiling and work our way down. Everything is going to get painted, new drapes, and hardwood floors installed.
Hopefully, the finished study will be revealed soon (I am loving the way it’s turning out!), and the formal living room not far behind it!
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On another, much sadder note…….many of you have been telling me that you have been missing my blog posts, and I wanted to let you all know why I haven’t been around as much.
In early February, my sister was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.
We are devastated and our hearts are breaking.
I am trying to spend as much time with her as I can, as we all learn to navigate her final days.
I haven’t felt much like blogging about things that seem pretty insignificant in comparison, but I’m trying to keep up with what I can, and I know that all of you understand.
Please keep my sister (her name is Vicki) and our family in your prayers as we walk this journey.
Time is precious. Today…this moment…is a gift. Cherish each one.
We should never wait to tell those important people in our lives “I love you”, “Thank you”, and “I’m sorry”.
I’m very grateful for all of you.
Blessings,
Cindy
Sadly, we as a family walked the same with our sister. I pray comfort, wisdom for you as a family as you are there for her. I pray that she knows the truth that comes through a relationship with the Lord, where there can peace and not anguish.
Cindy, God bless and comfort you, your sister and family. I know this is a dark time for you all now and I send my prayers along with the many others. It’s amazing how, through your blog, how we’ve come to love and appreciate you and what you share with us! I’m sure you can see how much you mean to your blog family and we’ll be here! I look forward to hearing from you as you have the time and strength and will be praying for you.
Thank you so much, Celia. Your kind words, prayers, and support mean so much to me.
First, my thoughts are with you, your sister and family. As you know, losing my sister to Cancer in 2003 left such a void in our family. It is so hard.
Your table is beautiful and I love the chairs as they are. The new chandelier is beautiful and a perfect choice. I can’t wait to see the new rooms. Then maybe, you can take a little break. Love —
Cindy, my heart breaks for you and your family. We are very familiar with cancer in our family too, as my husband has battled it off and on for 17 years. Yesterday we learned that his struggles are starting again. I wonder how much his poor body can take.
My thoughts are with you.
Dear Cindy, my heart breaks for you, Vicki, and your entire family. You all are being lifted up in prayer, and I pray that these weeks with your sister are pain free for her and precious for all of you. How I wish I could change things for you and Vicki–and I am sure I speak for everyone else, all of your dedicated readers and fans, who wish the same. You of course are doing the most important thing there is–the only thing there is to do, by spending time with your darling sister. Of course all of us love reading about your projects and your home, but those things pale in comparison when faced with a loved one with the diagnoses your sister has. I am praying that God holds all of you, and especially Vicki, in the palm of His hand,that He bestows grace and love upon all of you.I know that when the time comes, He will welcome Vicki with great love and light, and she will shine brightly in Heaven forevermore. My love and prayers to your entire family, Cindy.
Will you have a ‘professional’ remove your popcorn ceilings or will you be diy?
We have done all of them ourselves!
Prayers for your sister and your family…may God’s grace and love surround you.
Hello Cindy, My mom passed away from lung cancer on November 30th. I feel your pain, my mom lived three years with stage 4 lung cancer that has moved to the brain. Doctors called it a miracle of faith. Never give up the faith! The reason I’m writing is there is a new treatment called immune therapy, it tricks the body into fighting off the cells that are attacking your body. My mom did pretty well on this treatment. It’s the same one that president Jimmy Carter was on. I will pray for you and your family because thru God all things are possible. Maryann
Dear Cindy, I am another who has lost a sister. Two years ago my sweet sister was taken from us after a valiant 5 year battle with leomyosarcoma. It was so difficult, and of course we think of her every day. She is always in our hearts. I will pray for you and your family. I love your elegant style!
Cindy,
Je viens de lire votre dernier article et je suis si triste d’appprendre le décès de votre sœur. Je suis de tout cœur avec vous dans cette pénible épreuve.
Je sais pour avoir perdu un être cher que la douleur est abyssale.
Mais je sais aussi que vous êtes d’une grande générosité et que sans aucun doute vous serez très entourée pour supporter ce terrible chagrin.
Seul l’amour des proches et j’espère aussi un peu de tous les blogueurs dont j’ai lu le touchant témoignage de réconfort vous aidera à continuer votre route….
Une caresse à votre attendrissant toutou qui doit lui aussi certainement vous apporter du réconfort.
Dieu vous protège vous et votre famille.
Cathy
Dear Cindy,
I am deeply saddened by the terrible piece of news you have shared with us and I hope that all our thoughts and prayers can relieve the tension you are undergoing … don’t bother about us and your marvelous blog but take all the time you need for your sister and your kins!
Love to you and to Vicky ,
I’m so sorry to hear about your sister. I know the pain…my oldest brother was diagnosed with liver cancer. We all took turns staying with him in his final weeks. It’s hard and so sad. But the blessings from that time are priceless. I pray you will find those precious blessings as well. Big hugs.
I’m so sorry you and your family are going through this difficult time. Right now there is no greater gift than that of time. My prayers are with you.
Praying for your family that there will be no regrets, nothing left unsaid and no lingering sorrow.
Cindy, I’m sorry sorry to hear about your dear sister Vicki! Her name will be spoken in prayer and especially tonight at our prayer group. One of my friends who holds our weekly meetings, was diagnosed 2 years ago with stage 4 lung cancer and was told to get her affairs in order. She did many rounds of chemo which made her sicker and then they tried a new treatment (used for those who don’t respond to other treatments) and she is doing fantastic now. She is off the oxygen, and all the tumors have shrunk. She isn’t cured but she has a much better quality of life. There is always hope. Spend as much time with her as you can. We love you and thank you for sharing with us so that we can all hold you, your sister and family in our prayers. I love your foyer, the chest is gorgeous and I love the turtle feet. Now it can be displayed in a prominent place and you can see it everytime you walk in the door. Your new girl is gorgeous! And of course precious RubyLou is just the sweetest. I’m sure she brings you comfort during this time in your life.
I learned to savor each moment and treasure those around me after I lost my son. My heart is still broken but amazingly still able to hold great joy and unending sorrow side by side. My heart aches for you. Please give your sister, Vickie a hug and let her know her name will be spoken with reverence. She matters. She is still here. She is, and will always be loved.
Cindy spend as much time as you can and make lasting memories. Praying for your sister and family, God bless
Tonya
Please know that you and your family are in my prayers……blessings to you!!!❤️❤️❤️
Take as much time away as you need. Family is everything. I’ll be praying for you and your family.
Oh Cindy, I am so very sorry to hear the sad news about your dear sister. I would like to tell you a story about a loved one who had lung cancer. He was diagnosed, they removed his whole lung. The plan was chemo and radiation. We then went to the head of oncology and the U. of Penn and he told us there was no hope and for him to “get his affairs in order”. We were devastated. However, he proved everyone wrong and lived for over 20 years. AND, the lung cancer didn’t kill him, a stomach aneurism did. So, there is ALWAYS hope. I say this also because my husbands youngest brother has terminal brain cancer for which there is no cure, but he is doing well! I will pray, pray for your sister and you and the family. Don’t worry about the blog, we all will be here. XO, Pinky
Dearest Cindy,
As tears swell in my eyes my heart breaks, it was one year ago Feb.23th my sister Lois passed away from cancer, so I truly understand your sadness. I pray your sister and your family may find peace in knowing our Lord’s love gives us so much comfort and he is right with us always.
Treasure your times together and always let the happy memories outshine the sad ones.
Hugs and Prayers ,
Paula
Joys of Jesus always in your heart
Vicki is blessed to have you as a sister, I pray that your time together is filled with life. love and joy. Enjoy all the time you have had together and the time you have together.
I am so sorry to hear the news about your sister – cancer is such a horrible thing to have happen to anyone. Your family is first and our prayers are with you and your sister. Everything everyone else has said is so true and we all want you to have “no regrets” that you did not spend time with her – precious memories that you need.
I just got home from my parents because I go each week to take my mother to chemo so I know the tole it takes on the person and family. She also has breast cancer that metastized to both lungs.
Your blog brings such inspiration to all of us. The little girl and chest is just beautiful and she will always bring you such joy since she came into your life at this special time.
God be with all of you.
Daphne, I will keep you and your mother in my prayers. God Bless you!
Cindy, I am so sorry to hear about your sister. Please know I am keeping her in my thoughts and prayers.
Praying for Vicki and your family. Let us all know if there’s something more we can pray about. I appreciate knowing you are putting your family first.
Dear Cindy – I’m so sorry to hear of your sister. Cancer is so unfair; like many who have posted my family has been greatly affected by it. I lost my mom to lung cancer when she was 46; then later we lost three more to cancer. I have always felt so pitifully inadequate to convey how much I hurt for someone that must watch them go through it. It’s so hard. You think you can’t do it, but you can and will. You are so kind in your writing to total strangers, I can only imagine the compassion you have for your family.
Do what you can for her and all your readers will be here when you’re ready to pick up the blog again. You will never get the time back so spend it with her as you can. As much as I have enjoyed and learned from your writing, there is a time for everything and now is the time for Vicki.
Prayers for you and your family. You have our support.
My friend Cindy, I’m so saddened to hear about your sister. I have a sister too and can’t imagine how hard this is for you and your family. Don’t worry about blogging. If your readers are like me, they’re not going to desert you. Stay strong and live for every moment. Hugs, Pat at Bringing French Country Home
You and your family are in my prayers. Cherish today.
I will add your sister to my prayer list which sadly grows longer
Cindy I am so sorry to hear this news. I just lost a very dear friend a week ago to Sarcoma. He fought a good battle but now I know he is no longer in pain and is whole again. Blessings to your sister, Vicki, and to you and your entire family. Family and being together are so very important.
Debbie
So sorry to hear this devastating news. You are so right that we should treasure every moment with our loved ones. I’ll be praying for your beloved sister and family.
Prayers go out to your sister and may her passing be peaceful and painless. Prayers for you, family and her close friends. I have lost family and friends to that cursed cancer and my heart aches for all of you. Send as much time as you can with her. We will be here
waiting to hear from you again when you are ready. Peace and love!
Thoughts and Prayers go out to you and your Family….
My prayers are with your dear sister and her family…..
I’m sure God is by her side…..also my prayers are with you as well sweetie, this has to be breaking your heart…..
Your home is looking gorgeous…..
Blessings~~
Mari
Cindy,words are all we have to give you,.prayers for your sweet sister. I am so sorry you and your family are going through this ordeal,wish we all could give you a hug,
I love the new look in the foyer, I can’t wait to see the new renovations and I am sending up prayers for your sister!
Prayers for your sister, you & your family already said & will continue.
Hi Cindy…I will keep your family in my prayers…cancer has invaded my life as well, I am a breast cancer survivor 3 times over. I understand wanting every minute you can get with your loved ones. No one should have to endure such hardship. Stay strong! Give her lots of hugs as well as yourself. Hugs make a huge difference!
Much love you and yours.
Although we have never met, I have come to know you through your blog. The hours you spend sharing with us your space and object transformations, your treasure finds, your very intimate thoughts…proves that you don’t need to meet a person to identify and value her sensibilities, spirit, taste, values and so much more. On a different subject…As a cancer survivor, and having lost many loved ones to this dreadful disease, I have complete empathy for your sad and painful circumstances…As I have often done, I will pray to the King of Divine Mercy on behalf of Vicky and her loving family, to grant you all emotional fortitude and peace as you say goodbye…
Cindy, My hearts breaks for you and your family. I have been down this path just recently with my husband’s sister that we lost too early. Prayers for Vicki and all of the family. And yes, life here on Earth for us all is a fleeting moment and this sad news brings new perspective to everything. God has a plan for each of us to fulfill while we are here.
I adore your new girl and the chest you have placed in your foyer. What a special item with those turtle feet!
Please take the time you need on this sad journey with your family. Our love, prayers, and thoughts will be with you daily. We will all be here waiting when you can return.
God Bless,
Wrenda
Dearest Cindy,
You know what I love? How all your followers have united to pray for Vicki….. and you. I have many guardian angels in Heaven and I’m asking all of them to gather at your sister’s side. My Blessed Mother and Angel prayer is to guide her, protect her from pain, for peace of mind, body and soul. Consider all of us writing to you today as your guardian angels, we are not going anywhere. You just take your time for Vicki and family. We all love you and know this journey for both of you is difficult. May God be with you both, always.
Much Love, Suzanne
ps. kiss Miss Ruby for me – she knows your heartbreak and somehow they just make hard times a little bit easier.
pss.After all, she is a little angel!
Suzanne, your sweet words brought me to tears. Thank you so much, everyone’s kind words and prayers mean so much to us.
I am so very sorry and will be praying for her,loved ones, and medical staff.
That phrase – terminal cancer – oh, that phrase that feels like a boulder dropped from a very great height. I’ve heard that phrase before. For us, it was the very best and the very worst of times since that terrible diagnosis allowed us to open the flood gates of our hearts and really connect with each other on a deep level. If you’re reading this and blessed with good health, please say the words. Touch each other. Be wholly and completely present. I’m sorry. I’m likely preaching to the choir. What I’m thinking is how lucky Vicki is to have the love and support of her sister for this journey. Don’t worry about the blog, Cindy. Your fans will wait patiently. I’m sending love and healing wishes for your family. Big hugs.
Dear Cindy and family – sorry to hear what you’re going through. You have your priorities straight! Spend precious time with Vicki! Positive thoughts sent your way.
Celia
Cindy, I am very saddened by the news of your sister. I, too, had ovarian cancer many years ago and am very lucky to be here today. I am truly thankful for everyday. Life is very precious and sometimes we take it for granted. Having cancer changes you for life. Although it was a horrific time for me, I lot of good came from it. My advice is spend as much time as possible with your sister. She will appreciate every moment of it. May God help you and your family through this difficult time. My prayers are with you.
Oh Cindy, so so sorry, I know you are heartbroken. I will pray for your family. May the God of all comfort wrap his loving arms around you and your family.
Having lost my sister I have a sense of what you are going through. God bless you all with loving times together & may the warmth of your love embrace her during these difficult days. Hugs.
Oh my dearest Cindy, I am so so sorry, that is a devastating situation to be going through I know, I’ve just been through it with my beautiful, sweet mother. There are no words that I can offer you that will take away the horrible feeling of uselessness that we all feel in times like this but please know that your sister Vicki, your family and you my sweet Cindy are in my thoughts and prayers. Also know that we are all here for you, sending you and yours strength, positive vibes, huge hugs and a whole lot of love. You are not alone!!! And blessedly, Vicki isn’t alone either, she is surrounded by your loving family and that is a huge comfort, I know. May she find peace at the end of her rainbow and may she be pain-free on her journey there. I love you my dear friend and I am here for you, should you need me. Always. xxx
As for your new beautiful girl, she is just awesome, I love her to pieces! I don’t think you would but should you ever want to sell her, please keep me in mind, I would cherish her for sure. Your chest isn’t too shabby either … wow is all I can say! Love it! As usual, you never disappoint with your elegant sense of style, your impeccable good taste and your awesome flair for beautiful design. Hats off to you dear Cindy, you pulled it off … again!
I’m so sorry to hear about your sister. Hugs and prayers for all, most especially, your sister.
I agree with Nancy – blogging can wait – we will all still be here when you are able to start up again. I will keep Vicki and you and all the family in my prayers.
My heart is breaking for you and your family. I will be praying for a peaceful time of it for her.
Shared your master bedroom with my Mr yesterday afternoon. We are taking a new direction with it , bought s mew headboard similar to yours and after discussing some options, a look like yours was what we were both thinking.
Thanks for the inspiration.
Big hugs!!!
My heart hurts for you. I pray the Peace of our Lord be with you and your family.
I have followed your blog for about a year now. I love seeing the way you are transforming your home room by room. It is all stunning! I can’t wait to see your newly renovated study and living room! Also sending prayers for your sister and family during this difficult time.
You are in my prayers. I am so sorry to hear this sad news. Please make the most of the precious time you have left with your sister, be with her as much as you can. Material things don’t matter a jot in comparison. God bless you all. Sally xxc
Praying for your sister and all of your family. Life is so precious, blogs can wait.
First of all…I am so very sorry to hear about the devastating news of your sister, Vicki. I am sure that she so loves you spending your time with her during this indescribable time. My thoughts and prayers go out to her and the family. Thanks for sharing this recent beautiful find..and the updates on your renovations. Take care!!!!!
I have missed your posts. Can’t say enough about your beautiful little French girl statue and that chest. Thank you for sharing. Sending prayers and hugs for your sister Vicki.
So sorry about your sister and glad you are taking time to spend with family. Blogs can wait….
Cindy, I’m so sorry to hear that! You are all in my prayers. God is in control, and I pray she is comfortable and doesn’t go through much pain. May God give y’all strength and comfort through this difficult time. I do love your new girl and everything you do . . . . everything is looking beautiful!
As always love your post and your home. You have a beautiful home and an even more beautiful heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Blessings,
Candy
My sweet Cindy, cancer has invaded my life as well….and although I am in remission, it is true one never, ever is the same. I am so sorry that this dreaded disease has entered anyones life you know….but deeply am sorrowed by the news it is your sister. It is something no one should have to deal with and abruptly enters ones body and lerks there to disrupt our lives….all of the lives that love the one is harbors in. I am deeply, deeply saddened it has entered sweet Vickies life…. Know she is thought of with emmense warmth and love from this heart. That she is sharing her pain with all of us that cancer has touched as we know that this sickening disease takes from us without asking in devistation. Meant follow you throughout the net waves…..so there are many that will feel the pain of your heart, your loved ones close to you and your sweet sisters. May it be know to your being…..that we care so deeply and will pray for her peace. For her smile to shine brightly each day and that her life will be cherished regardless of what happens to her body. Please let her know I send her much love and care….and that her courage and her ability to care for her life is cherished by many of we “sisters” ……God bless her so and you and your family…….much love your way.
Thank you and God Bless you, Jann.
Bless you Cindy and may God give strength and peace. Thank you for your beautiful post and just know we all do understand and look forward to your post whenever you have the time to post.
Your blog is by far my favorite, I check it everyday for an update and will continue to do so. Take all the time you need, you and your family are in my prayers and I wish you and Vicki peace. God bless.
Praying for Vicky and family. We all understand and will always be with you during this time….the blog can wait. Love the girl statue and the chest is cute.
You are all in my prayers. God bless and keep you all, and hold Vicki closer than close at this time.
I do look forward to reading your blog posts perhaps more than any other blog out there. Your projects are always so inspiring, whether it’s renovating or decorating, and I can’t wait to see your office and the living room! Love your new additions to the foyer too. I have your sister in my prayers. Xo
Knowing God is in control of every situation so therefore I am praying for healing for Vicki and removal of all cancer cells.
The decorating and Reno is all great but I will be praying for your sister and your family. Such devastating news for y’all. I pray that the thought of the glorious new home she will have and that she will only know pure love and joy is a comfort to you. Many hugs Cindy…..
Cindy, I’m so sorry to hear the news of your sister. Cherish your time together and keep that perspective on what’s important. Family is everything.
Cindy, I love your cute chest in the foyer and your new girl. The feet on that chest are so unique. I am so sorry about your sister. Praying for you and your family at this difficult time. Take all the time you need and we are always here.
Love the new ‘girl’, she’s very sweet and the dresser she is stood on is oh so gorgeous, actually I love everything about your beautiful home and enjoy all your posts….as for the awful news about your sister, there are no words, it’s a terrible time for you all, Vicki in particular, I pray for God to give you all the strength to cope with the days ahead….blessing to you all….be strong…xxx
Cindy, your story this morning touched my heart in a very deep and
Special way….Tender prayers for Vicky and may her family find strength
and peace in knowing it’s all in Gods loving and gentle hands,
I will continue with quiet prayers.
Prayers for you, your sister and all of your family as your share her journey and celebrate your lives together.
Oh Cindy my heart breaks for you and i will continue to pray for you!
God bless you and your family!