all photographs by Riley Salyards.
While in Paris I stayed at my friend Juliette’s place. Entering the apartment, which was passed down from her grandmother, is like stepping into another time. Old bottles, baskets and bowls, furniture lovingly taken apart and re-upholstered by hand, everything tells a story. It is one of those places that forces you to stop and enjoy what is in front of you. I like the attention you have to give to old things and the intention that must go into caring for them. I found it impossible to be in a hurry. I did come away from this trip giving no small thanks for the time that modern appliances do afford me, but also refreshed from engaging in simple tasks without rushing on to the next thing. Juliette is woven through my life in many ways and I am continuously inspired by her space, her work and her way of being in the world. Soon I will share the history behind many of the objects you will see in the photos and introduce you to Juliette’s work. For now I offer you these photos.
Written by Riley Salyards.
Photographs by Riley Salyards.
I was in Paris last week with family,which is why I was not able to post here. Pia was kind enough to make excuses for me two weeks in a row! I did consider bringing my computer and posting while there, which makes me laugh now, thinking about how exhausted I was chasing a two year old around the city of lights.
I have lived in Paris before but I have never experienced it with – or like – a child. It was really special to see everything through fresh eyes: Chasing birds around Notre Dame crying “I’m gonna catch you birds”; the “tower” up in the sky; salted butter on “bread toast”; coconut ice cream on Ile Saint. Louis….lovely, all of it. The weather was my favorite kind – warm enough to wear a dress and cool enough to wear a light jacket with your sleeves rolled up. The trees were in full bloom and aside from getting hit very hard in the head with a soccer ball at the bottom of Sacre Coeur I had a delightful trip full of inspiration, food and great company.
This week I will be posting several little stories sketching a moment or a place that I loved….there were so many I would rather show you over several days then edit it down to one post. I hope you enjoy!
I would also like to echo Pia’s sentiments from earlier this week, “I love Amsterdam Too!!!!” The weather has been so perfect and I returned from Paris to a garden that has exploded into bloom…more of that to come next week.
Happy Spring.
Written by Riley Salyards.
Photographs by Riley Salyards.
a message from pia:
riley has been very busy with guests this past week (hmm how does it happen that my guest has guests?! that’s not supposed to happen!) and has been unable to post. However, she asked me to wish you all a big HAPPY EASTER! and she will back next week to post some more.
In the meantime I decided to post this photo she took some time ago. I love riley’s home, and this little vignette is one of my favourite places to sit and enjoy a cup of tea when I visit.
We miss you Riley! But are looking forward to playing with you next week here in the (blog)house. Until then, HAPPY EASTER!!!
xx
