Bella Grace
Life's a Beautiful Adventure
Those are the words on the front cover of this new and beautiful publication from Stampington & Company. Inside the covers there are narratives and photographs that share a love of simple things and slow living. I've only read the first four articles. I'm savoring it; making it last for weeks. That's not easy either, because I just want to sit down and devour it! It's not just articles either, there are places for you to list your gratitudes or write your thoughts. The editor, Christen Olivarez writes,
"It is meant to be read over and over again. It is meant to inspire you to see the beauty and the magic that surround you, no matter where you are. It is meant to be written in and dog-eared. It is meant to accompany you on this beautiful adventure that is life."
Is it what I expected when I preordered the first issue? Yes, it is much more than I expected. I thought at first it was a little pricey, but with about 160 pages of inspiration on wonderful paper, it's well worth the price. I will read it over and over again.
Linking with Kim's Friday Finds.
Now, a few of my random thoughts and photographs...
#1
I've been looking for some Queen Anne's Lace to take pictures of. Around here I had trouble finding any where it was safe to pull over and take a few pictures. I did stop one place and try to pull up some to take home, but on my, these beautiful flowers have deep roots. Couldn't pull it up and couldn't break it off. Finally, I found some when I visited my daughter recently. It grows along the road leading to her home. I just love the intricate patterns and textures of these lovely flowers that remind me of fireworks exploding.
#2
Do you remember the first movie you ever went to? I do, way back in 1970! Growing up we didn't go to the movies. I had to wait until my "date" took me; my date who is now Mr. H. We went to see "Love Story" staring Ryan O'Neal and Ali MacGraw. You talk about crying buckets on your boyfriend's shoulder! Good way to get his arm around you, you know!
#3
I can't decide. Do I like the windows best are the reflections? I'm thinking the reflections!
#4
You never know what's you'll find when you walk down an alley. I wonder who took the time to create this little oasis between a building and a parking lot. And, don't you just love that window on the wall!
#5
I also found this in that alleyway, propped on a small ledge. It used to hang. I wonder if it was the top of a wind chime. Whatever it was, someone didn't want to just discard it, they placed it for others to see.
That's it for today!
Enjoy your weekend!
I am going to have to look for that book, it looks wonderful Cathy, and your others are always a treat for me to see, love the little alley way with the moss or clover grass whatever. So inviting and sweet.
ReplyDeletelooks like a stunning book - enjoy
ReplyDeleteI have been waiting for that publication to come out for months. I also read Art Journal and Artful Blogging, both wonderful publications that I read over and over again. Queen Anne's Lace is so beautiful and easily photographed. You definitely earned the photos you had to work so hard to take.
ReplyDeleteBella Grace sounds like a wonderful publication, Cathy. Such a wonderful collection of randomness you've found this week! Queen Anne's Lace is one of my favorite wildflowers. I'd never seen it before moving to Ohio in my 50s. Your windows/reflections shot looks like a "Brenda"! And I love that little alleyway you explored. Have a wonderful weekend!
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful finds! Bella Grace sounds wonderful, have to check it out. I have the same problem as you ... plenty of Queen Anne's lace everywhere ... but it's all inaccessible.
ReplyDeletehi Cathy ... oh where did you find Bella Grace? I have been on a search for it, but I think I need to give up and order it on line. Sounds like it is a good one! Hope you have a delightful weekend!!
ReplyDeleteI have always loved tiny, delicate blossoms. Your lace is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely sounding book, Cathy. I just love those window reflections too! What fun to reminisce over that old film you saw: "Love Story" with your future husband! I saw that film when I was living in the US. It does seem all rather mushy now, doesn't it?! At the time, it seemed devastating though!
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely weekend!
Lots of good finds here. It seems you are true to the title of your new book--out adventuring, enjoying all the beautiful things have to offer. And, I must say, I agree you with you about that alley retreat--love the idea of two people (a couple, work friends, whatever) chatting there and perhaps enjoying a cup of coffee.
ReplyDeleteI am going to have to check out that Bella Grace Magazine, it looks wonderful! Queen Anne's Lace is my favorite.
ReplyDeleteI am loving Bella Grace too. I feel like I have a treasure with me when I carry it around from car to night stand. :)
ReplyDeleteCathy, I am using your message area here to see if google will take you to my new blog instead of my old blog. I made my old blog private and hoping that by doing that, it will solve the problem when I leave a comment on blogger blogs. I am sorry to use you as a test. :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful post, Cathy - all the photos made me want to stop awhile and just admire. I remember going to Love Story - and I married the guy, too!
ReplyDeleteStampington has always put out great books and magazines. Savor each story and image! And you know I vote for the reflections. Love that window hanging on the wall.
ReplyDelete