Monday, October 10, 2011

A Party in Castro Valley's Coolest Home

My dear friend, Lenore, threw a little party for me so that I could get together with some friends on my whirlwind trip to California. Understanding the lack of time I could spend with individuals on this short trip, she opened her home to me. She fed and watered all my peeps and we had a wonderful time hanging out and catching up! It was a nice, low pressure way to see everyone.


What I wanted to actually blog about is her amazing home! I love it so much, and wanted to share a few photos of it with you.






Okay, beautiful, right? I mean, I've known her for about 15 years, and her home is ever-changing, but always full of grace and beauty. It's very well thought-out, if you know what I mean? It helps that she has access to amazing antiques and art, being a part-time antiques dealer, as is her hubby, Charles. He also is a creative genius. Check out his newest creations... Steampunk lamps! They are so cool...



This one is my favorite! Sorry the pic isn't great.




He sells them in their antiques shop in Petaluma, CA. If you're interested in purchasing one, I can get you the info to contact them. They don't have a website, but if you're ever in that area, let me know. Also, in the "West Wing," Lenore has collected artist's painting palettes from Paris. They're so rich and full of creative life... you can see them a bit in the photo of the dummy head.

Expandable breasts!




Charles keeps lots of Steampunk inspiration around him... that dress-maker's dummy is the best! The waist, bosom, and other areas expand and contract to size! Like something Tim Burton might have used on a creature of his... it's still in working order, too, after Charles fixed her up.



Above are two pictures I took of Lenore's Curiosity Cabinet... a Victorian invention to exhibit interesting things as they explored the New World of Nature with a scientific eye. Her cabinet is full of lovely bits of nature that even I have never seen before! True curiosities! My own cabinet of curiosities also stores my art supplies, etc, so it's not as lovely as hers. Though one day... one day!


I also wanted to share Lenore's granddaughter, Bella's, bedroom. It's lovely. I wish my photos did it justice. We were happy to meet her last weekend.... she's a sweet and creative girl. Just beautiful! Although only eight years old, she has the aura of an old soul. She is a precious girl.







And last, but not least, I got to see my best friend, E, and her son (my Godson) Max. He's now 13 years old, and as tall as me... documented by this photograph. It was a special treat to spend time with them! (I've missed my time with my BFF!!)
E and K taking pics of Max and I
Max used to fit in the crook of my arm like an over-sized (though not by much!) burrito. It makes me sad and also amazed at how fast children grow. His voice has changed, too.... deeper now, more manly. So strange! 


I had such an amazing time at Lenore's. She's one of my dearest friends... true sisters of the soul. She and I have so much in common and can spend hours chatting about all kinds of things. She is a constant inspiration to me, too. I've missed her! I hope you've enjoyed this little glimpse into her home. She's an inspiration! 

3 comments:

Terriaw said...

How fun to see all your CA friends again! Your friend does have a beautiful home. I love how crisp and fresh it looks, making it feel very homey.

Brandi Hussey said...

I, too, dream of a day when I have my act together enough to decorate a home... gorgeous, gorgeous shots! And I looove those steampunk lights!

Fenny Setiawan said...

lovely house Shari. I love the huge kitche (envy) and also the vintage collection is drooling :).

And you looks cute beside your godson. OMG remind my self that I am getting older as my god daughter also a teenager now and probably taller than me too, I haven't seen her for 3 years....Time really flies.

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