“The only difference between an extraordinary life and an ordinary one is the extraordinary pleasures you find in ordinary things.” ~ Veronique Vienne
Last week, while looking for photos, I came across the cover of this lovely vintage book. While the cover design is so pretty, it was the title that captured my attention ~ “Beauty in Common Things.” The words have been on my mind. So today, I thought I would share my thoughts.
“Beauty in Common Things,” inspired me to think of the truth to the words, and how I much I believe our ability to live life well truly depends on recognizing such things when we see them. The words also resulted in my thinking about my blog ~ why I began writing it. And, am I being true to the reasons why I began?
“I’d like to add some beauty to life,” said Anne dreamily. “I don’t exactly want to make people KNOW more… though I know that IS the noblest ambition… but I’d love to make them have a pleasanter time because of me… to have some little joy or happy thought that would never have existed if I hadn’t been born.” ~ L.M. Montgomery, Anne’s House of Dreams
Actually, my thoughts are exactly those of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s, “Anne.” You see, “ I want this blog to be special for you – something you look forward to in our crazy world, a source of inspiration. I want the blog to provide a “pleasant time, some little joy or happy thought.” A tiny gift you receive as a result of your visit. I want the blog to be a “well of sweetness.” Basically, these were the reasons I began writing my blog, almost two years ago. My heart had grown weary of so much ‘ugly’ in the world. Therefore, I decided I wanted to do something which would add a little beauty and joy to our daily rounds. I feel I have lived long enough to have something worthy to say and if my efforts bring joy to even a few ~ I feel as though I have been successful.
Translation ~ The Bird Garden
“The simple things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them.” ~Paulo Coelho
When you visit the well at ‘Maison de Jardin,’ I want you to drink and enjoy the beauty. Beauty, such as fabulous home interiors, lovely textiles and needlework, wonderful gardens and magnificent views of nature ~ all accompanied by beautiful words. But especially, I never want to become so immersed in the grand that I fail to show the “beauty in common things,” like cheerful late summer dahlias or a barefoot girl with a bouquet of delphiniums.
“Remember honey, ~ “The earth loves to feel your feet and the wind wants to play with your hair.” ~ Belle Fears, my grandmother
What is important to me is that you take away something of beauty you can carry in your heart. Lovely words, written by some marvelously talented soul or an image you can keep tucked in your mind while you are in the middle of a spinning world. I want my blog to touch your heart through the “Beauty in Common Things,” things such as my blogging friend, Penny posted on her blog a couple of weeks ago. When I saw her post, my heart smiled ~ yours will too. And, by the way, the name of her blog is, “Enjoying The Simple Things.” Visit here.
“Beauty Inspires Your Love For Living” ~ Alexandra Stoddard
Personally, I believe the love of beauty lies within each of us. I believe it is truly in our hearts – even if we do not know, or recognize it. Often, a moment of grace opens our eyes to beauty. Beauty is everywhere, in everything and in everyone. It inspires us, moves us forward, enhances our homes and can make life sweeter for ourselves and those we love. It holds power and is a vital component to living well.
Possibly this is why I am drawn to the French way of life. Their style of living is not about wealth. It is about slowing down, taking time to notice the small things, sharing moments with those they love, and not filling every moment of every day with, ‘something.’ They understand quality as opposed to quantity in everything from food to home furnishings. They are creative, they well know new does not necessarily mean better, and they are absolutely not a ‘throw away society.’ Perhaps this style is a result of all they have endured. The brutal horrors of war ~ not once, but twice during the 20th century.
Indeed, the French understand living well and have shown me an enlightened way.
“Pleasure is spread through the earth In stray gifts to be claimed by whoever shall find.” ~ William Wordsworth
As I stumble and make my way through this blogging world, know I promise you my best always. My blog may be for some and not for others, we all enjoy different things. It is my platform to scatter joy and beauty in our world. And, hopefully, inspire you to do the same. By being open to, and aware of beauty, I believe we can make a difference in our world. Because beauty and grace make us a kinder people ~ really it does. And, it can have an enormous ‘ripple effect.’ That, is up to each of us.
For those of you who have been following me, I hope you will continue. I invite you to share your thoughts about my blog ~ both likes and dislikes. If you do not wish to post a public message, you can always send a message under the “contact” section of the blog. It will go directly to my email and not be visible to the public. You and your comments are important to me.
I want to sincerely thank everyone who is reading this, especially today, for your time. For me, it was important to remind myself and my readers the reasons I opened the doors to Maison De Jardin ~ to inspire, share my great passion for beauty, and to scatter joy. And, to inform those readers who may be new of a little history.
So, won’t you put your hand in mine, together I do believe we can make subtle changes in our world toward good.
Wishing You a Beautiful Day !
Au Revoir,
Sandra
A Few Notes:
“Well of Sweetness” ~ are the words of Susan Branch
“Beauty Inspires Your Love For Living” ~ are not only the words of Alexandra Stoddard, but they are also the title of a talk she gave in Clarksburg, West Virginia during April, 2008. The talk was open to the public and was attended by over 250 people. It was organized by, yours truly.
Photos: Tumblr and Pinterest ~ I do not claim ownership to these photos. These photos are the work of tremendously talented people, I have compiled them for your enjoyment.
I am so happy I found your blog a while back Sandra! When ever I come here you do put a smile on my face and Joy in my heart. I love the quotes you share along with the wonderful photos. Thank you for the mention of my blog in todays post. Have a wonderful day!
Many thanks, Penny. And sharing your blog was my pleasure. The post I referred to was exactly what I was trying to convey. You have a great day, too!
Sandra, you do such a wonderful job conveying peace and beauty in your blog. You have such a gift, and I always find some inspiring words or something pretty to take with me from my visits. I hope that you have a blessed and wonderful day, sweet friend!!!
Shannon, many thanks for your kind words and especially for your visit. You are always so supportive and I so appreciate that. Happy day to you also, my dear friend!
Sandra, your blog has a way of calming me with your words and photos. I really enjoy the simple Sunday posts too. What appeals to me especially is I don’t ever feel like I must hurry and pick up a decor trend or make this, make that when I visit. It’s simply a place to enjoy. Well, okay, I’ll admit sometimes the gardening posts make me want to hurry and order a certain variety of plants (eg., if I have luck with my first peony I’ll definitely come to your blog for some of those fabulous varieties you’ve had success with). The older I get the more I enjoy slowing it down (and that in itself says a lot since we live in WV!) and just taking in beauty by admiring what I already have and what others share. Stay the course!
Rita, always such a treat to see you here. I am pleased my blog is something you enjoy. I have enjoyed blogging, but also found it to be a strange land. And I so appreciate your most kind comments.
About the peony, Rita peonies are one tough plant. In Va. one year, my husband decided they looked dreadful, it was the end of the season. I was at work and guess what, he burned them off. I figured they were gone – but they came up the next year gorgeous. They don’t care how cold it gets and I have seen their buds bent to the ground with a late frost and they perk right up and bloom gloriously. Yours will be fine.
Again, thanks for your comments – enjoy these final summer days!
Oh Sandra! Your blog fulfills its destiny and spills over with its loveliness into the hearts and thoughts of your loyal readers. I’m so glad our paths have crossed so we can enjoy the beauty of common things together on a regular basis.
With loving thoughts,
Brenda xox
Ah, Brenda ~ I too am so happy our paths crossed. I thank you so much for your kind comments and we will enjoy our journey together. I do know we are kindred spirits, waiting to actually meet one day.
Enjoy these final summer days ~ Canada will be seeing a bit of fall soon.
Sandra, I am blessed to call you friend. You scatter so much joy through your blog. Your inspiration and beauty comes from every word written and every photo shared. I always love to see your post in my inbox, I know it will be encouraging and filled with loveliness. I gladly take your hand to share joy in our broken world. I always find peace and rest when you share. Keep doing what you have been doing for the past two years. The world needs your kindness and generous spirit. Much love and continued success, my friend!
Dear Pam, your words bring joy to my heart. I can’t begin to tell you how much I appreciate you. I thank you so much for your good wishes and hope one day we can meet. But, until then ~ I am grateful to have found you and am grateful to also call you my friend. Wishing you a beautiful day.
Sandra, Your blog is a respite from the world of problems. It always inspires, calms and I enjoy the beauty of your words, pictures you have found and beautiful quotes. Your sweet heart shines through your blog in such a positive way.
Sorry, I am late in responding. Life has been rather hectic.
Dear Bonnie, I always enjoy your visit at any time. Life can become quite challenging, to say the least.
I do send you many thanks for your kind words and am happy you enjoy the blog. Both mean a great deal to me.
Wishing you a most beautiful September, ‘one to remember.’