La Madone in Provence

Camera clicking frantically. Did I look frazzled? Was I excited?

Had I, at long last, discovered where my passion for design and decorating was heading?

French Country...........where I spent October...........where I loved the interiors as much as the spectacular vineyards.

La Madone............beautiful place in Provence.

Remember the intriguing blackboard at the entry to La Madone, the gracious house where our Apartment Chanvre was located on the top floor? Our 8:00AM breakfast wishes were entered by Nathalie before we climbed the stone staircase....

.................and, when I saw the old plaster walls with paint colors matte and muted to ancient softness, the Provencal boutis (quilts), antique linen sheets, stacked in the painted armoire and on the elegant chair...................

................the pretty antique high chair.................

......the thick and thirsty towels and wash mitts......

..................I knew my dreams had come true. I was here, in a place so lovely I wanted time to slow down, perhaps even come to a complete standstill so I would not have to leave......ever!

Entering the apartment, the late afternoon light created shadows through the shuttered windows. The crystals danced, the texture of the linen curtains glowed. We threw the windows open and enjoyed the view across the little river and terracotta tiled roofs of ancient Apt, misty mountains in the background.

Empty silvered frame, perfect grey wall - Nathalie and Jean-Bernard know how to do it. I'll learn perhaps. Meanwhile get ready for more..................sometimes all one really needs is much less!