“We are weighed down by our possessions.  The pursuit of modern values, consumerism and personal development in order to achieve happiness has isolated us from everything that is reflected in Stratis’ photos. Tranquility, simplicity, humbleness, no bragging or arrogance, emerge from Stratis’s photographic world, thus conveying to us a message, which is crystal clear.” Giorgos Pittas.

Photographer Stratis Vogiatzis’ book “Inner World” contains 54 images of inner spaces at the mastic villages of Chios, part of the beautiful Greek islands. I have tried to find out if this book is available to purchase but cannot find any further information about it except what is written here and here.  I am fascinated, intrigued, and immensely inspired by this project and feel a similitude to Stratis’ approach to photography.  I’m also incredibly moved by the colour in these spaces, and how layers of time are so evident, intensifying each shade.

There is a wonderful article about Stratis’ work on Yazter, right here. And although the images speak for themselves, I highly recommend you read this. It’s all wonderful, wonderful stuff.

(would you like to know how I came across these incredible images? Follow my path to here, then here, and finally here. Enjoy the wander!)

Jane Schouten, creator and curator for Dutch online (and offline) boutique All The Luck in The World not only makes gorgeous art but restyles vintage and found furniture in the most inspiring of ways. Above is one of my favourite items – the  medicine cabinet – from her latest collection of  treasures, and below is another…

…the happy cabinet. So bright and cheery!

If only this gorgeous boutique was in Amsterdam, I would have included it in my book! But here it is in the (blog)house instead, be sure to check out Jane’s online boutique and also her flickr photos – I particularly love the images of the pretty, tranquil spaces throughout her home. Below is the full collection of  latest treasures…

A couple of years ago I bought a bag (the one in the top of this set of sold goods in fact) from Jane and it remains to be one of my most favoured everyday items. I have no doubt you will find something in her collection that you will fall in love with too.

The book hasn’t even hit the shelves yet and it’s already been getting some fabulous press, including a wonderful mention on the travel page of the current issue of Vogue Living.

I love it! Dear Ebony speedily emailed me the above page upon my request last week so I could show you guys. Thank you Ebony, and thank you Vogue Living!

Today I’ve been planning the window displays that will be dotted around Amsterdam in June (I will give you details of their locations soon soon), organising various book launch events (I’m super excited about them!), and doing a spot of Spring gardening here on the boat. Next month is soooooo the month to be in Amsterdam, but I said that already, right?

It’s been a busy few days for me, thank you for your patience in waiting for me to announce the lucky recipient of the above! You do not have to be patient for a minute longer. The lucky recipient is…

comment #74: Terry! Congratulations!

Thank you everyone who participated, you made this giveaway extra fun and special. And a big thank you to Cassandra from haven workroom for giving away such a gorgeous treasure.  Terry if you could please send me an email with your address details so that I can let Cassandra know, and for the rest of us who missed out, Cassandra has offered a 15% discount off everything in her store, click here to read her post with code details. I have my eye on the peacock cushion, and the tropicals, and the stripes and…

Thank you again mes amis. I’ll be back here again in uno momento…

xx

While working quietly this morning, I had the distinct feeling that I was being watched. I turned around to find this young mum at my window. She has been at my window alot lately, even when it’s open she doesn’t hesitate to pop her head in. I’m not sure why she suddenly feels the need to come so close, have I been feeding her and her little ones too much from the kitchen window and now she expects more? There is a silent rule between me and the water creatures that I will only give when I can, not when they want. And of course when there are little ones around I will give a little extra – you know, instead of just the left over stale slices of bread I might throw in a fresh slice.

But this one doesn’t seem to understand the boundaries. She has been shooed off a number of times but still, she persists.  She looks at me in a way that makes me feel guilty for not having food for her when she needs it, and some times I cave in and give her the only piece of bread left, the very slice I was about to eat. Then I see other canal dwellers like myself throw great bundles of bread out for her and her family and I say to her, “you see? Not only do you live in an already incredibly bountiful environment, you are also given so much on a regular basis, much much more than is given to those around you. You have more than enough so be happy with what you have, don’t wish for more”.

But still, she stares at me through my window. It’s become clear that we don’t understand each other and that perhaps I have given too much. I’ve decided it’s time I stop.

xx

PS I am going to announce the giveaway winner tomorrow! I hope the suspense does not drive you mad before then…