This is the first phase of a very special home illustration. Actually it is one of several homes on a private estate on a nearby lake.
The lady of the house was a refined, sophisticated and very chic woman that had homes all over the world. She raised sons and daughters and was a world class cook. She always opened her homes to family and friends. I was the gardener at this magical property for six years.
Each summer guests would arrive to enjoy tennis, swimming, fabulous meals, boating, walking in the formal rose garden, and cocktails served at the main house before dinner
It amazes me how small our world seems at times. Who would guess that so many years later I would cross paths with one of those special guests via our blogs. She and her husband traveled to Maine for summer holidays and stayed right here in this home.
Watch as I try to bring this gorgeous old Tudor back to the grande dame that I remember.
There were thousands of bright pink Impatiens planted among the stone paths and in her many window boxes.
Do you know of a special place that evokes all kinds of wonderful memories of experiences past?
~To be continued...
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I do believe that the Lady of the House had a hand in us connecting.
ReplyDeleteShe did have a way of stylishly and effortlessly gathering so many, with her love of cuisine, wine and flowers. I learned to make a wicked fish chowder from her as well as enjoy a bottle of Petrus! Her Mother was a remarkable woman.
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PvE~ I have such fond memories this time of year- getting the gardens ready for all would arrive just about now. Arranging flowers for the main house three times a week!
ReplyDeleteThere is a special place on the southern most point of MA, near Pandanaram. It's a tiny community called Nonquitt. I love it. No one locks their doors, they even goes out with the front door open. All you hear are the sounds of children playing. The ocean view is relaxing to look at. They only have a post office, the size of large shed. Life at Nonquitt is like living in Mayberry. I've been fortunate to summer there for many years.
ReplyDeleteDeb, I look forward waiting to see more of this home come alive through your art. You have my curiosity- I would love to hear more about this woman and her parties. Does the home still host all the parties of the past? Yes at times our big world seems small. I guess this is why it was created round things always seem to come full circle. Thanks for sharing! xoxo
ReplyDeleteOooh Debra, this is beautiful! And your description of that woman makes me want to know more about her!!!
ReplyDeleteThe moving?? I'm exhausted....I think I'm near a nervous breakdown, BUT......the end is near....just another 4 days!!! So sweet of you to ask, you're the best, XXX Carmie.
Very beautiful!! Can't wait to see more. Sounds like wonderful memories.
ReplyDeleteFun I can't wait to see it all come together. I have a few special places. They aren't homes but landmarks in NYC. The Met and the Cloisters. Love them.
ReplyDeleteJust beautiful work Debra. I mentioned you on my blog today!
ReplyDeleteAmazing work Debra - you are so talented and I love the story behind it... keep posting your work!
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to seeing this beautiful progression.
ReplyDeleteMy grandfather's garden in the summertime always brings back fond memories of sitting on their porch eating fresh corn off the cob or biting into a juicy red Big Boy tomato!
Debra, Loved this post and I could picture the guests having a lovely time visiting that glorious hostess. My favorite place was my Mom's former home on the ocean in Spring Lake NJ. Gorgeous and luxurious and I love Spring Lake. It is very charming and old fashioned. I loved to sit on her front porch and enjoy all the views. xoxo
ReplyDeleteLovely painting.
ReplyDeleteTudor houses are my favourites.
Debra, your rendering of this charming house is so beautiful - can't wait to see the rest!
ReplyDeletereally charming Debra!
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