Wednesday, September 30, 2009

...you don't know Jack...


Hi. Yesterday's delivery and installation went great and I also got to meet a new friend. I installed light oak finished wood blinds and delivered two chairs in a tomato red at the head and foot of a Dining Room table. The bar stools should get to me by Thursday and I will deliver them on Friday, just in time for a house full of guests. Why wait until the last minute you say? I totally agree but the wonderful people at the imported chair frame company had some unexpected freight issues. Those of you readers in this area know how hard it is to get from Chester County to Philadelphia without a snafu; try importing hand carved frames from Egypt. Getting from point 'A' to point 'B' can be one of those unsolved mysteries but I have a feeling that everything will work out. The new 'friend' is a large dog named Figaro who thinks that he is a lap dog. He was a great help to me yesterday and Friday I will bring him a treat. Another, in a chain of unsolved mysteries occurred on this day in 1888. I was a mere tot and don't remember exactly the sense of fear but pseudonym Jack the Ripper killed his third and fourth victims. This was a few years before Donna Summer released her paen to 'working girls' entitled "She Works Hard For The Money" as Jack victimized women earning income as prostitutes. Most victims' throats were slit, after which the bodies were mutilated. The removal of internal organs from three of the victims led some officials at the time of the murders to propose that the killer possessed anatomical or surgical knowledge. A gal's got to do what a gal's got to do. Back then, fast food restaurants were paying a measly 40 cents per hour and that hardly pays the gas bills. M stopped by and we had a little time to catch up last evening so please send a paw prayer out to Harlan who's eyes are focused and clear and shows no signs of suffering. Unlike those poor ladies of the evening back in 1888. Have a great day and if you don't know Jack about something, read up or Google it. Information is all around us.

"The enemy of art is the absence of limitations." Orson Welles

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

...he works hard for the money...


Hello. We almost had frost here in Chester County, PA last night. My firewood hoop is empty and I had better take care of it soon. We spent a few hours yesterday property shopping and I found the cutest stone house with a detached thatched roof on a corner lot and thought it perfect. In need of repairs that I could certainly do myself I phoned the listed realtor. Aside from the property having no kitchen andpriced at a million two, it was a great idea. I will keep searching. Why is it so hard to become a millionaire these days? At least for me. Many of you out there probably don't find it hard at all. Way back in 1916 when a million was even harder to accumulate, John D. Rockefeller became the first billionaire. Geez! I need to work even harder, if that is possible. I delivered the Santa Suit Red chaise lounge with ottoman on Sunday in the Tapestria Tinsel upholstery fabric cushions. The lady of the house loved it, the husband claimed to be in shock. It happens. He went outside to smoke a pipe and to compose himself. He came back inside not quite as shocked. I wonder what was in that pipe? I deliver a Host and Hostess upholster chair duo this afternoon and will install some Graber Faux Wood blinds also. The bar stool delivery was postponed until this Thursday but from what I hear has not inhibited cocktail hour in any way, shape or form. Whew. Positive thoughts please for C, P, M and J as they are in need of some higher power help. Have fun today and work hard. If you don't achieve your goals, there is usually always tomorrow. 'Capri Wooden Side Table' shown today. It has a leatherette blotter, handy for writing those large checks.
"It takes a great man to be a good listener." Calvin Coolidge

Friday, September 25, 2009

...do little...


Hi. Most of us have a lot to do every day and sometimes it is hard to keep everything running smoothly. I am lucky to have been born with an excellent memory, (thanks God!) which can be a blessing and a curse. The shop next to me asked for my cell number and I got most of it right. Have you ever done that? I can't take responsibility for doing little, perhaps at times, too much. Last evening at dinner hour, a client called and we tried to talk over the cat making his dinner demands while the three dogs barked in excitement for their somewhat new antioxidant dinner blend. I mentioned to the client that I must sound like Dr. Dolittle and she replied, 'Oh, I know all about you Jim." All? Yikes. On this day in 1929, Jimmy Dolittle performed the first blind flight from Mitchel Field, proving that full Instrument flying from take off to landing was possible. His fictitious brother, Doctor John Dolittle is the central character of a series of children's books by Hugh Lofting. He is a doctor who shuns human patients in favour of animals, with whom he can speak in their own languages. He later becomes a naturalist, using his abilities to speak with animals to better understand nature and the history of the world. I love it. Hit this link for a 'groovy, hip' rendition of the classic song. You may need to get your Go Go boots out of the mothballs also. Just an idea. The bar stools are supposed to be delivered today and the Laura Ashley drapery fabric is en route. A client in TN ordered some of my hand painted ceramic tassels and they should arrive shortly also. I like the 'Pearly Girly Pink Ceramic Tassels" the best and, well, you know. Have a great day, do a lot and let's thank both Jimmy and Doctor Dolittle for doing so much. Pictured today is a sort of 'cross section' of how my upholstered chairs are constructed. Talk about doing a lot.
"It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do little - do what you can." Sydney Smith

Thursday, September 24, 2009

...marathon...


Hello. The Greeff, Fabricut and Robert Allen fabrics and trims were all available yesterday so the day's marathon got off to a good start. The Kravet drapery weight fabric for SB is in good stock also which will make her 8-10 week proposed delivery time much less than that. My bar stool order is scheduled to arrive tomorrow which again will make people happy. I hope they didn't put off cocktail hour until they arrived! Along with the Barakat family, please say some prayers/positive messages or whatever you can to do in a good way to help out M and H who both need a helping hand/paw. Life is like a marathon at times with so much happening all at once. Maybe that's why God gave humans the intelligence to invent energy drinks and Vodka. Marathonwise, on this day in 1968, 60 Minutes debuted on CBS TV and it currently holds the record for the longest continuously running program of any genre scheduled during American network prime time. Most everyone knows the sound of the ticking clock, comfort to some and like Chinese water torture to others. I rarely have the time to watch TV but like to know it's there, just in case. K&S Auto is awesome like I have said numerous times, and I will say it again for anyone who needs expert, professional, honest vehicle care. Especially those of us with all of those computers under the hood. It is also not a great idea to make a U-Turn on Route 30 in Malvern and rapid speed when one sees a line of cars stopped in the distance. Hang tough B, M, E, H, P, J and everyone else. I have one 'Large Grand Estate Tray' left. Tick, tock, tick, tock... Marathon Men/Women
"I always say if the marathon is a part-time interest, you will only get part-time results." Bill Rodgers

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

...Hilda Barakat...


Hello. Many years ago clients called on me to redecorate their new home in West Chester, PA. They had taste, a beautiful collection of art and furnishings and needed very little direction from me. They also sent their son and daughter to me for design advice, home furnishings and more over the years. This relationship has continued and I cherish it. During that chaotic move, Hilda Barakat remained calm, kind and in control as she stopped everything that she was doing to prepare a wonderful lunch for me, the decorater. Last year they stopped into my shop to buy a game table and chairs and it may have taken 20 minutes maximum to make their style and finish selection. That is typical of the Barakats as they know what they like and display no frivolity whatsoever. I love them. I had a strange occurrence when a business associate hopped up on the front display platform decreeing that she was 'the only thing for sale' up there, much to my embarrassment and dismay. As the Barakat's left the shop I asked Hilda to please not dance on the front platform, in jest. Her quick reply was "I will try my best to control myself" without missing a beat and we all laughed. Yesterday Dr. Barakat phoned me in all of his bereavement to tell me that his beloved wife had succumbed to pancreatic cancer and had died the previous Saturday. With all that he is enduring and in his sadness and loss, he had the class and thoughtfulness to phone me to tell me of Mrs. Barakats passing. My heart was broken and I cannot imagine the loss and sadness that the Barakat family is feeling right now. Rest in peace Hilda. You are a strong, beautiful, intelligent, witty, generous, brave woman. I never guessed that you were ill, and I guess that goes along with your strength.


HILDA DAISY (nee Batarseh) on September 19, 2009 of West Chester, formerly of Clarks Summit, PA. Survived by her husband Adel, her daughter Lamia Barakat (Brad Norford), her son Rami Barakat (Ginny), her grandchildren Keira, Sabrina, Gabriel, Reema, and Laila and her brothers Gabriel, Victor, Samir and Nabil Batarseh. Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation Sat., 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. followed by her Funeral Mass 10:30 A.M. at St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Church, 3679 Providence Rd., Newtown Square, PA 19073. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Hilda's memory may be made to United Palestinian Appeal Children's Charity, 1330 New Hampshire Ave., NW, Suite 104, Washington D.C. 20036 www.helpupa.com

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

...scary...


Good day! Sitting outside last evening at EA's for dinner, I noticed three very red leaves on a huge tree with the remaining leaves still green. Today is the first day of Autumn and it is frequently the day of the Autumnal Equinox in the Northern Hemishphere, and the Vernal Equinox in the Southern Hemisphere. It will take a cold day in Chester County tho' for me to give up the shorts and give into long pants. This time of year always brings a melancholia because I love Summer. One day I hope to live where it is Summer year 'round but for now I need to embrace the seasonal changes. Last night I did watch some TV and it was a Ghost Story with all kinds of scary goblins, etc. and that genre always helps me to sleep well. I know, go figure. On this day in 1692, they hanged the last of the people suspected of witchcraft in the US. I finished another Roman Shade yesterday and have a new client this evening who needs color selection, wallpaper and some type of window treatments. I won't know until I get there and check out her closets (clothes, not skeletons) and talk to her for a bit to begin to create what I know will be something good for her. I had also better order some firewood as my supply is barren. I took Prince to the Vet last evening to see if his enlarged heart and collapsed trachea have improved and guess what! Nothing has improved. In fact, he is now believed to have Cushing's Disease and will need more blood work and who knows what else. As I waited for our appointment three youngsters came in with an adorable terrier puppy swaddled in a blanket looking very much like our beloved Max, and my first thought was, "this puppy is deceased." How horrible. I heard them talking among themselves as only the thoughtless non animal lovers would do as they texted friends back and forth and showed no signs of emotion. After receiving Prince's diagnosis and stood at the gate to pay for the services I learned that the puppy had indeed died. I didn't wait around to listen to what had happened, all I know is that not everyone is meant to care for animals and children. With my love for animals I have seriously been considering a career change but wonder now if I have the heart to study and practice in this field. I think that I would need a baseball bat and/or a handgun with appropriate licensing if you catch my drift. Sometimes Witches, Ghosts and Goblins come in very human forms.
"If an animal does something, we call it instinct; if we do the same thing for the same reason, we call it intelligence." Will Cuppy

Monday, September 21, 2009

..beauty is in the eye...


Hello. We spent a good two hours creating what will become three toss pillows but, as long as I can get all of the fabrics and trimmings, it was time well spent. The fun part about my industry are the creative aspects. Robert Allen, Greeff, Fabricut and Kravet are four textile houses needed to make three pillows. Hey, whatever it takes. I finished two Roman Shades that evening and they look very much like ribbon candy, shampooed a neighbor's carpets Sunday morning, well, some of them, she did the rest and then I headed to the city to wrap art around me for a few hours at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. I really needed that. As you already know, you can rent headphones and many of the pieces have a narrative recorded for that specific work. You can also listen to your IPod but that somehow defeats the purpose. Van Gogh's 'Sunflowers' was there as usual as was 'Spring Sale at Bergdorf's" and I love that one. Marcel Duchamps: Étant donnés was given a lot of floor space but I just don't get it. Call me a Traditionalist. When you have to look through two holes in a large wooded door,well, to each his/her own. Today's photo is "Wild Flowers Framed Oil Painting: originally priced at $264.00 but after yesterday's trek to the Art Museum now sells for $2,640,000.99. Shipping extra. On this day in 1937, JRR Tolkien's "The Hobbit" was published. Have a great day. Appreciate beauty in every form.
"I often think that the night is more alive and more richly colored than the day." Vincent Van Gogh

Saturday, September 19, 2009

...'boy that coffee was hot' said the moron...


Ok. I usually don't write a blog on Saturdays but I need to post a short one. Years ago a lady sued McDonald's because she ordered a hot coffee at a drive through, spilled it on herself and won the claim. If it had been lukewarm would she have sued also? Would she have returned it because it wasn't hot enough? A while ago a lady ordered custom chair pads from my shop, came into my shop to pick them up when they were completed and when my phone rang and I turned my back for a second she tried to run off with them without paying. Luckily I have a wireless phone so continued my conversation while grabbing the bag from the beyotch. She called the police on me and claimed that I had thrown her up against the front wall of my shop. My front was all windows that face major highway Route 30 so I would have to be a freaking moron to pull that kind of act and she turned out looking like an utter moron as well as a thief in the eyes of the police. I got paid.If she had exited the shop with the goods and got as far as the sidewalk it would have been against the law for me to then grab the bag even tho' she hadn't paid. This week a Muslim teenager claimed in a federal lawsuit that she was denied a job at an Abercrombie & Fitch clothing store at a Tulsa mall because she wore a head scarf. I totally believe in everyones right to have a belief system or lack thereof. Let me tell you, I will be 50 in February, take good care of myself, work out on a regular basis and am fit. If I walked into Abercrombie & Fitch for a sales job it would be almost laughable. They market and cater to young, beautiful people. That is their choice. If they want to cater to a not so young, not so beautiful people maybe I would have a chance at a job, probably part time if you get my gist. And if anyone out there says, 'you are missing the point on religion' I would counter that ageism is in effect here with my tale. I feel it a waste of the court's time with these frivolous lawsuits and a waste of time and money for Abercrombie & Fitch to have to engage in this type of suit. If you want to wear or need to wear a head scarf wear it but do not expect a company with a style theme to change their 'branding' for you. If you go to a drive-through and order a hot coffee, expect it to be hot and don't be a moron and spill it. If you are a klutz go into the restaurant, sit down and drink it there...carefully. If you want to shoplift from my store, next time make it a lamp or something solid. If I hit you over the head with soft, plush, custom chair pads it won't make much of a difference. Have a great day, work hard, play hard and don't be a cheat. Oh, on this day in 1900, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid committed their first robbery together. It was a closeout Waverly wallpaper in the very back of my shop so no biggie.
"If you don't quit, and don't cheat, and don't run home when trouble arrives, you can only win." Shelly Long

Friday, September 18, 2009

...small packages...


Hello. It's a bit grey here in Chester County, PA this morning. I had an appointment at Shannondell where I had done sample apartments a few years ago. The place is now pretty huge and reminds me of dorm living on a much more grand scale. Every tenant has a small shelf outside their front door and from what I can tell, everyone has a small statue, floral arrangement or some diminutive item to welcome both inhabitant and guest. I get a daily reminder that good things come in small packages as all of the animals who live here are small scale. That is only in size, mind you. Not in attitude. I wonder where they get it? My neighbor is downsizing so I helped last night bring some things up from here basement and out to the curb or to my truck for a Goodwill delivery. New carpet samples cam e yesterday also and some of the new broadloom's have a twist to them and that gives a fresh look to an old stand-by. Sort of like when Joan Rivers has more work done. Teal and chocolate are waning in forced style and my favorite, bottle green with sage undertones is being prominently shown. Please tale no offense teal lovers, and small Tiffany packages everywhere. On this day in 1837, Tiffany and Co. was founded by Charles Tiffany and Teddy Young in New York City. The store was called a "stationery and fancy goods emporium". Makes great stocking stuffers too! Autumn is fast approaching so please wear shorts and Crocs to work until it becomes impossible to do so. It is casual Friday, isn't it? Tick, tock. ($56.46 click the link). Have a good day, embrace small positives and if you have time later, stop by Tiffany and Co. Any size will do. *wink*
"Fear comes in two packages fear of failure, and sometimes, fear of success." Tom Kite

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

...Kimberton Knoll Townhome for sale...


My neighbor is selling her beautifully decorated town home. Redesigned kitchen with granite and all of the details. Hardwood floors in many areas with neutral wall to wall carpeting in the remainder of the home. A wine tasting room on the lowest level with wine cellar, three bedrooms, two and a half appointed bathrooms. Corner gas burning fireplace in the Living/Dining area and Crown Moulding. The finished loft can be used as a bedroom or a home office. The heating system has been upgraded and the deck is revamped. Professional landscaping front and back and convenient parking at the front door. For more information please call Eileen Amoroso at 610- 917-3294. Many of the furnishing are up for sale also. $270,000.00

...insomnia...


Greetings. It is overcast today in Chester County, PA and I spent another thrilling night with the insomnia demons. If anyone out there also suffers from insomnia you can identify with the 'demon' part. I follow the rules in the good sleep handbook but then *wham* I go thru days and days of this craziness. The room is dark, it is quiet, I don't overeat or drink, I do my workouts early enough in the late afternoon, I don't bring my laptop to bed and I don't use the room for anything other than to sleep. So what gives? Napoleon and Edison both lived on 4 hours of sleep per night and seemed to have done just fine, not that I can place myself into that illustrious group. At around 3:30 I finally realized that sleep would not come so I crept out of the bedroom to let sleeping dogs lie and went way downstairs and began a project. Maybe it's the changing seasons. I always get insomnia when a full moon appears, and three days before it appears and three days after it goes. Sometimes I get insomnia during a new moon and I have been this way for years. On this day in 1812, aside from the Overture, Russians set fire to Moscow shortly after midnight and the city burned down completely days later. Perhaps they were sleep deprived. 'Coir Gentle Leaves Door Mat' is shown today because I'm just not that clever this morning. Have a good day and for Heaven's sake, stay awake.
"Insomnia is a gross feeder. It will nourish itself on any kind of thinking, including thinking about not thinking." Clifton Fadiman

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

...directoire...


Hello. We had fun at the Marketplace yesterday and saw many beautiful things. This 'Directoire' Oval Table from Granges' 'Directoire Collection', (duh) was just on of those items. It is made in France and will find it's way to the US in a few short months. Sort of like how, on this day in 1812, the French army under Napoleon reached the Kremlin in Moscow. The Directoire Oval traditional table has 4 legs and seats 6/10 moderately sized people. Description :Cherry wood Dimension : Length 178 cm Height 76 cm Depth 117 cm (70 ¼ in )(30 in )(46 ¼ in ) . It has built in leaves that come up from the bottom which is clever as heck. Leave it to the French! Today JS will visit me and make her mirror selection. Another client should be ordering her bedroom wallpaper today also. I would prefer to work from home today and maybe one day will be able to do that all of the time. For now I have the shop and people come to visit me there so fine is fine. Say some prayers for EA who is having a terrible time right now please. You know what, let's say some for her and everyone else, including ourselves. Happy Birthday AA!
"A picture is worth a thousand words." Napolean Bonaparte
...does Kanye West have impulse control issues?

Monday, September 14, 2009

...get together...


Hi. We closed the pool yesterday which is a task that I dislike greatly. After several days of rain the sun was out and the skies were blue. Nevertheless it had to be done yesterday. I got a workout in by placing sandbags around the perimeter of the pool after placing the cover completely over it. The pool tends to be a meeting place where many walks of life gather to converse, enjoy summer, eat, drink and be merry. We love to get together as often as possible. Today is the Javitz Center for a gift show for some, but I am taking a client to the Marketplace in Philadelphia. Bring some brochures back! If you have never been to the Javitz Center, do so. Again, it is a place where all different kinds of people gather for many different reasons. The United Nations had the right idea regarding 'getting together' as, on this day in 1948 groundbreaking for the headquarters began in New York City. The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are facilitating cooperation in international law, security, economic development,social progress, human rights, and trying to achieve world peace. I wonder how that is going? Last evening was a Birthday Party for EJ who turned 9. We delivered and set up a basketball pole and backboard and he seemed delighted. I remembered to look before backing out of the driveway on our way home. "Get Together" everyone! Hit this link for a groovy rendition of the Youngblood's classic. Communicate and don't rush.
"History never looks like history when you are living through it." John W. Gardner

Saturday, September 12, 2009

...fired...


HI. On this rainy Saturday morning I am thinking about a conversation I had last night with my friend MH who was unceremoniously fired from a part time, 'commissions only' job. I think it stung her a bit. I was going to regale her with my war stories but thought better of it at that point. Sometimes it is better to listen to another than talk about oneself. My first firing was at Kmart. They placed me in the Garden Department and asked if I knew how to run a forklift. How hard could that be? I got there on bike and knew how to ride those, why couldn't I operate a fok lift? As luck would have it, my second day there an elderly couple came in needing railroad ties. I fired up the forklift and tried to head in the proper direction. After taking out a few feet of chain link fence and making an elderly couple run in terror, I was called to the Human resources office. Buh bye. My Senior year of College was interesting because I had fulfilled all of my requirements by my Junior year. My advisor sent me to look for an internship in the Art/Communications field. I found one at WCAU on City Avenue here in PA. I was either naive or a pistol back then and when asked to chauffeur bosses kids to and from train stations, be a coffee boy or perform other mundane tasks having nothing to do with art I simply refused. I decided to teach myself as much as I could within the Art Department as no one else there had time to and was written up while editing graphics, written up while sitting in on a Jane Whitney talk show about anorexia, and written up sitting in on voice over recordings, although they used my "fly with the angels..." blurb for years. After having been handed that pretty pink piece of paper I ended up re-writing my University Student Handbook and received my degree. Then, while working as a full time Designer I supplemented my income by working at a WAWA. One night a masked guy came in with a rifle to rob me. Working two full time jobs can be tiring, and just before midnight I may not have been as awake as I could have. I thought that someone was playing a prank as it was so surreal. He demanded money and I told him to get a f*ing real job like everyone else. Then he hit the register with his rifle and made another demand. I chose to hand him the metal boxes below the counter that held rolled coinage. He was gloveless, took the metal tray and then it hit him what I had done and he threw down the tray and ran. Buh bye! The next week friends came in to WAWA around closing time drinking beers. Boy Scout that I am, I told them they couldn't drink inside so I threw the remaining beer in the trash. (if that isn't alcohol abuse, nothing is). The following morning I was called in to WAWA and fired for drinking on the job. I explained to them that if I was, in fact, drinking on the job the beer cans would have been empty. Again, buh bye! I have had my own business for two decades and wonder if I could ever work for someone else again. I hope I never have to make that choice. It's not fun to be fired. On this day in 1959 the Soviet Union fired a large rocket,Lunik II, at the moon.
"I could never have imagined that firing 67 people on national television would actually make me more popular, especially with the younger generation." Donald Trump

Friday, September 11, 2009

...where there is hope...


Greetings. It is appropriately dark, cool, rainy and dismal outside. I think that Mother Nature may be crying for what happened on this day several years back. I can only speak for Chester County, PA, but that is certainly the case here. There really are no words to explain the vast change that this historic day has made on the US and the world. People suffered loss, changes in attitude, questions about the government and queries into who was really responsible for this horrible act that stole from so many. I had no idea, at the time, that this life changing occurrence was happening as I was waiting on a client and not sitting in front of a television set nor did I have the news radio on. I remember phoning the client at around ten oh five to ask where she was. Her tense voice asked me if I knew what was going on and as I just said, I had absolutely no idea. She reiterated what was going on and had mentioned a few friends who were in the area. I could tell that she was 'terrified'. Much information has come out about this horrible day and more information needs to be investigated, studied and released. Conspiracy? Inside job? Hateful people outside the US who want to bring down our economy or sense of safety? I'd love some replies on this subject. As the rain falls in Chester County on 9/11/2009, on this day in 1792 the Hope Diamond was stolen along with other crown jewels when six men broke into the house used to store the jewels. Today's photo is the 'Directoire Table' by Grange of France. A foreigner who makes the most beautiful pieces.
"It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light." Aristotle Onassis

Thursday, September 10, 2009

...sew what?


Hello. The cat came with us again this morning for part of our walk, much to the amazement of people around here who aren't used to that. He eats dog food for the most part and hangs with the boys so it seems natural to me. So do other things that many disagree with, but so what. Fabrics arrived late yesterday for two Flat Fold Roman Shades and for the boxed Chaise cushions and I must be in a green mood; or else the clients are. I can almost remember when I first sat down to try to thread a sewing machine. A business associate wouldn't even help me so I persevered on my own, as usual. It turns out that the machine was broken so I started again with another sewing machine and finally, little by little have taught myself much about sewing. That associate must have been peeved at my wanting to learn something new because, as I clearly recall, this person threatened to call the IRS and an attorney on me if I did begin sewing for my business. Huh, what? Patsy Cline said it best on her classic track, 'Crazy.' When you are through changing, you are through.Way back then, a client needed custom valances for a party and my workroom was unable to meet that deadline and the business associate was on another vacation so I did it, it looked great and I never turned back. Thanks to Elias Howe who, on this day in 1846 was granted a patent for the sewing machine, made this process available. He died at the age of 48, a multi millionaire. My cat has been crying at all hours of the night which, along with my infamous insomnia makes for a cheery morning. I go out to measure and choose paint colors this afternoon for a great gal, PN and then I will measure fabrics. How exciting! Singer and Howe thought so and excitedly ran all the way to the bank. Have an industrious day and, uhm, Doe a Deer. Today's photo is a Dining Room with a Brunschwig & Fils Adams style wallpaper, swags and jabots, curved chandelier and sheer panels. Notice the subtle curve theme going on? I knew you would.
"When you are through changing, you are through." Bruce Barton

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

...shake, rattle and swivel...


Hello. I waited for a chair delivery until after hours yesterday and they arrived just as ordered. The trucker was apologetic and I understood his tardiness as many things are unpredictable and it was his first time delivering to my shop. He also invited me to go to "New Hope" with him, but that's a story for another time. Another first happened on this day in 1956 as Elvis Presley appeared on "The Ed Sullivan Show." On this initial performance Elvis was visibly nervous. He sang "Shake, Rattle and Roll" and "Heartbreak Hotel" doing some of his now trademark shaking, swiveling and gyrations. He then left the stage. By his final appearance he had driven the ladies in the crowd, and perhaps a few men, into a frenzy. Is there a lesson in here? Oh, yeah. Just because something scares you it doesn't mean that you shouldn't try and give it your all. Maybe not with gyrations but that would depend on the scene. Dinner was of course late and afterwards we watched "Milk" starring Sean Penn and all enjoyed the flick very much. I think Brolan's character was a closet case but not all watching agreed with me. Any thoughts? Speaking of closets, has everyone taken their summer clothes out and stored them yet? Not me. I am still waiting warm weather; call me a fool. but "Love Me Tender." I faxed an order for more Bar stools but do not have a proper photo to show. The one pictured is similar in style but not quite as nice. I will try to take photos when they arrive, but we all know how my picture taking goes. Once finished with something I tend to move ahead. Not good for my portfolio, but...
Back to Elvis. The bar stools are swivel so the client will be happy if they get into a "Shake, Rattle and Roll" mood. Just don't fall off! I'd hate for the weathered wood finished legs to get chipped. My concerns also go out to the clients themselves of course. Have a great day. Don't let something that you want to try scare you enough to ignore and gyrate for all you are worth. Again, depending on the scene.
"Every time I think that I'm getting old, and gradually going to the grave, something else happens." Elvis Presley

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

...David and Goliath






Hello. It is earlier than usual for me to post a blog but I have to get my truck into the shop soon, thus the hour. I am going to a meeting this evening in Philadelphia to listen to a discussion about the over 700 unfairness that come along with same sex couples not being able to legally marry.I personally am not big on marriage anyway, but fair is not fair it seems. Sort of like David taking on Goliath who was supposedly 6'7" tall. But that's not as big as some barriers and prejudices held by people who take marriage as a religious matter that can only be between a woman and a man. On this day in 1504, Michelangelo's David was unveiled in Florence. It is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture measuring seventeen feet and made of marble. As we all know, the sculpture portrays the Biblical King David in the nude. Unlike previous depictions of David which portray the hero after his victory over Goliath, Michelangelo chose to represent David before the fight contemplating the battle yet to come.The completed sculpture was unveiled on 8 September, 1504. Does anyone out there feel that they are doing battle with a giant? I thought so. It can make one weary but please stay strong, or summon up every bit of strength to keep fighting the good fight/whatever that may be. Be your own David if you can't find one or use this 'Studded Glass Top Table' instead.

"You cannot shake hands with a clenched fist." Indira Ghandi

Monday, September 7, 2009

...Oxford Riverwalk...


...take me to the river, drop me in the water. You may remember my blogging about the drapery installation at Oxford Riverwalk in Royersford, PA. They called me on Wednesday, August 12th to find out if I would be willing to install their drapery and their hardware in the Clubroom in time for the August 15th Grand Opening. I emailed my rates that day and never heard back from them. Then, that Friday at 3:30 PM Kendra from Focus Design Interiors called to find out if I was heading to the job site! I stopped what I was doing and headed to Oxford Riverwalk. Arriving at the scene I learned that another installer had walked off of the job as the proper hardware hadn't been ordered the first time around. A very nice lady named Christine Smith, Leasing Consultant at Oxford Riverwalk pointed me in the direction of the newly shipped hardware but as it turns out, Focus Design Group had again sent the incorrect parts. As the Grand Opening was the following morning, I did what I do best and made a design out of the poles that did not cover the entire window, the brackets that were too deep for the moulding and omitted the one finial that should have been at least two, preferably four but still made the Clubroom Window look pretty. I hung the wood poles at each side of the 19' plus picture window and also installed the four ringed panels and then took a trick of the trade from my truck (Cordovan Shoe Polish) and finished the raw pole ends so that they would look acceptable for the next day's event. While providing my design service and installations many calls from my cell phone back and forth to Georgia provided much relief to Kendra and Kendrell at Focus Design Group. Leaving the site a couple of hours later, everyone there seemed quite happy with my ingenuity. The following day I received an email thanking me for the job and to provide payment methods which I gave as I accept major credit cards, checks, cash, etc. Job well done!

...labor pains...


Hello and Happy Labor Day! Labor Day is a United States federal Holiday observed on the first Monday in September. The holiday originated in Camden, New Jersey as the first woman, ( and this can be argued) went into labor at 3:13 pm. There were no drugs back then and you should have heard the language! OH, wait. That isn't quite right. The holiday originated in Canada out of labor disputes ("Nine-Hour Movement") first in Hamilton, then in Toronto, Canada in the 1870s, which resulted in a Trade Union Act which legalized and protected union activity in 1872 in Canada. On this day in 1979 the Chrysler Corporation asked the United States government for $1 billion to avoid bankruptcy. I still have Brothel Red paint stain on my hands and legs from Saturday's project which nicely matches my red fleece jacket which was necessary last evening after swimming. We kept at it tho' as I periodically cleaned falling leaves from the top of the pool. One partier lost his right contact lens when he was hit by a water pistol, or should I say water magnum. That thing can shoot and I had, well, someone at the party had NO IDEA the power that gun held. It is now Labor Day morning and the skies are overcast. Have a great and somewhat labor free day if that is possible. Call of the wild. "Zebra Tray Top Table".

"Success is simple. Do what's right, the right way, at the right time." Arnold H. Glascow

Friday, September 4, 2009

...brilliant idea???


Greetings. People must be sensing the end of summer even tho' I am the last one to even conceptualize it. I have sold 6 custom bar stools in only a few days. To me it means that those who entertain are prepping their bars for the colder months. At least here in Chester County, PA. Yesterday I chose swivel bar stools in a Weathered Mahogany Finish with a Robert Allen almost Marimekko-ish blue and white fabric for the seats. I went with Weathered Wood because, if any of their friends are like mine, the bar stools will look 'vintage' in no time at all anyway. I furnished their 'Fairway Room' this time last year in deep teal and earth tones as it looks out on the golf course. (thus the 'Fairway Room moniker). They own an old rattan chaise and I suggested my painting the base a deep blood red and making cushions out of 'Tapestria' in a pear green with mod buff swirls that replicate the Berber carpeting. She was taken aback for a moment and then commented, "will people say Merry Christmas when they walk into the room"? We laughed until I wrote down the name of the paint and the fabric. The Benjamin Moore paint is named 'Santa's Suit', the fabric is named 'Tinsel'. ooops. We are doing it anyway. I think it is an innovative and great idea. Interestingly, on this day in 1957 the Ford Motor Company had a great idea and introduced the Edsel. The Edsel was a marque of the Ford Company during the 1958, 1959, and 1960 model years. The brand is known best as one of the biggest commercial failures in the history of American business. Please save your comments regarding the chaise. I may have to do a drapery removal later today as a large design firm who could not seem to measure, order or install a simple window treatment hired me to fix their mess for a Grand Opening and now unable to pay my bill. No tickey, no laundry y'all! Today's photo are my new "Gutenberg Printing Press Nest Tables". Unique and practical. Sort of like the Edsel!
"There are no crown princes at Ford." Edsel Ford ....but how about a Crown Victoria?

Thursday, September 3, 2009

...fly by...


Hi. The drapery installation went great yesterday and after the sectional was delivered we decided to move it down 4" and over 5" which was involved but we did it with relative speed. Blues and wheat tones made a beautiful complement to the shared spaces already decorated. Last evening, during dinner a friend called in a panic. Her Cockerpoo had gotten a hold of an inhaler and his heart rate was up there. I phoned Animal Poison Control and they never answered the line. I have to find out if they need help phone wise as it is something that many retired people may want to do, or even me. It could also be a great internship choice for those interested in getting into Veterinary Medicine. They of course have a long recorded message about funding and to have a Credit Card number available which is fine, but answer the freaking phone! Both of us called from separate lines but we never got an answer. Thankfully for the Internet we figured out what to do and Coco is fine. I drove over there lickety split and almost beat the record established on this day in 1935 as Sir Malcolm Campbell reached 304.331 miles per hour on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, becoming the first person to drive an automobile over 300 mph. My Bishon puppy has become quite the blogger and likes to sit on my lap and put his tiny white paws on the keypad. It is very cute, but if you read a curse word or two it will not have been my fault. Today I go to MB's home to select fabrics for a chaise and some pillows and maybe new valances for her sun room. We did the sofa and love seat this time last year. Sometimes the days creep and the months fly by. How is everyone's end of summer cold doing? Mine is great, thank you. We smoked Black Cherry cigars last night and that very much helped my sinuses and head cold. I highly recommend doing it. I need to fly now. Hit the 'cher' in cherry for chairs.
"Eagles commonly fly alone. They are crows, daws, and starlings that flock together." John Webster ...just ask Don Henley

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

...breaking news...


Hi. It has always been back to work, but in this back to school week when education is priority, I am wondering how people get their news. I tend to listen to NPR or BBC Public radio when I am getting ready for my day. I also learn much news from the Internet, but rarely do I watch TV. On this evening in 1963 the CBS Evening News became U.S. network television's first half-hour weeknight news broadcast, when the show was lengthened from 15 to 30 minutes. I am guessing that Evening News broadcasts are still big advertising money makers for the stations but think that this type of news gathering, along with newspapers, are dropping off. Speaking of which, and just in time for the Holiday gift giving season, there is a 'Pole Dance' doll for all of those little girls (and some boys) out there. The li'l darling goes up and down a dance pole just as many of you parents wish that your toddlers would do. And what a workout it provides! Ah, news. We watched an interminably long and poor movie last night called 'Changeling" and, aside from the lead actors lips, had a hard time keeping focus on the jarring direction and poor acting. I was ready to chop them with an axe myself. New Fall fabric books have arrived and some of my favorite combinations are big this season. Black, taupe, charcoal and graphite. I gravitate toward them anyway, in vogue or not, as they have long shelf lives when used properly. Even the animals that live with me fall into these color categories. The world isn't just black and white everyone! Like a newspaper, or the first half hour evening news broadcast. I may have to report on a deadbeat tomorrow but will see how today goes. I hate to mess with Karma if this company is on the up and up. Maybe their cell phones, land lines and computers have been down for a week so I will be patient and see. Have a prosperous and great day. Do something newsworthy, but not anything tabloid attracting. And no offense to pole dancers everywhere! I should probably try it. I need a change from the Stairmaster. Chilly evenings ahead here in Chester County, PA. Don't forget a "Fireplace Screen" for when that time arrives. I would hate anyone to burn their ash.
"News, if unreported, has no impact. It might as well have not happened at all." Gay Talese

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

...stick together...


Greetings. It is September 1st, and it is cool and crisp here in Chester County, PA. The boys need to get used to the big yellow taxis again, especially the Pom who likes to bite tires. I keep them on short leashes, together and controlled. Somewhat. Last evening someone hit a telephone pole, no serious injuries but it did take out the electricity for the night. Not quite as serious as on this day in1859 when a solar super storm affected electrical telegraph service. We ate and played Ping Pong by candle light and everyone stepped up to stick together. These past two days have been cool but I won't be fooled. Warm days are ahead as is a much needed day trip to the beach. The roads were closed last evening as PECO was breaking their backs to get service to the area but I had an errand to do. Luckily I know the back roads, lawns and creeks and have a large 4wd SUV so all went well. Sorry about those mums Mr. H! It was dark! LS and MS are in Washington scoping out colleges so we had Liam for the night and he gits right in to the pack. The bed was a bit crowded as it wasn't officially a four dogs night but I didn't mind at all. The cobalt blue ringed side panels with brush fringe are finished which will make NO happy. Talk about sticking together. They have the most wonderful family and I am probably not the only one who feels the warmth the moment I cross their thresh hold. I erroneously locked my cat out on the upper deck yesterday, rushing from place to place and one of my many great neighbors brought it to my attention as soon as I got back home. I called and called and found that he had let himself onto a neighboring deck and was none too happy with me. Good thing for good friends and neighbors. We need to stick together. And remember to let the cat in. Click on today's photo to enlarge if it's too small. It will be worth your while.
"We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools." Martin Luther King Jr.