Colorful Friends,

When asked about the source of my decorating and design inspirations, I recall many wonderful people, places, and events that have shaped my experiences. Being a flight attendant for over 10 yrs. allowed me to travel the world in search of unique fabrics, colors, textures, and flowers, and plants that inspired men.

I remember visiting a quaint village in the outskirts of Spain in the early 70's. I noticed a particularly interesting store with beveled, stained-glass windows, and shelves filled with things of olden times. I banged the huge door-knocker a few times before the shop keeper slowly opened the door. Her silver hair was pulled tightly into a bun. Her aura of elegance showed and her face sparkled with a simple naturalness. Her welcoming smile invited me in.

Although it was not the holiday season, whispers of light were everywhere. The place was packed! She had the best and rarest treasures the world had to offer. Each piece was more polished than the previous. She loved her shop and the treasures she surrounded herself with, they were a living reality for her.

After I had made a couple of twists and turns from one room to another, she approached and kindly offered tea. We sat together only briefly, as my tour bus was arriving, and my time limited. Before I left I purchased an unusual bottle trimmed with soft 10 ct, gold, and ruby-colored crystal. Although my time with her was brief, it left a lasting impression. She truly was “Living her Colors”", and radiated her comfort and tranquility to her guests graciously. Once I opened the door and said good-bye, there was a faint tint of hope that I would see her again, and would be able to spend more time hearing her stories gentler times. Soon I found myself on the bus, returning to the “real world.”

Other places that have inspired my decorating sense are two lovely and beautiful inns in Carmel, California. One is the Cypress Inn owned by Doris Day. The other is the La Playa Inn just a few blocks away. Each day the Cypress Inn serves afternoon tea. One can relax in the elegant, buttery-soft leather chairs, nestled in front of a cozy fire. I love sitting there for hours watching colorful guests come and go, seeing many with theirs pets, as Doris allows them too!

At the La Playa, the open airy landscaped lobby and patios, give a relaxed and pampered feeling. One of my favorite things it to sit on the beautiful open patio watching the sun set, sipping homemade ginger ale, and munching on some of the best vegetarian hordurves I have ever tasted! Guests from all over the world are dressed in colorful attire, some in beautiful hand-beaded wedding attire (as they are one of the main attractions for seaside weddings). Others were strolling in and out in their jeans, panting for air after the hike up from the white, sugary sand beaches.

All was so unique, so colorful, so personal. I felt alive and completely connected to the environment there. It made such an impression on me, that moved there, and now am part of the colorful community!