It has been brought to my attention by a few emails from friends and strangers that although my blog is lovely to look at- some of you want to know more about me. This makes me a bit uncomfortable as I feel there is not much to tell, and the point of my blog was to bring in customers to the store by showing you the latest merchandise and events. (since a website is so darn hard to update). I know other bloggers talk about everything from their beloved kids to what they had for breakfast- but I do not as I can't help but think I do not care about these things, why would you? But, because of the interest by some (and lack of anything else better to write about this week) Here goes:Q: Are you married or anything?
A: Never married, single and straight, not involved and live alone. This has pretty much been the case most of my life. After getting my heart broken a few times in my 20's and 30's, I put my nose down and just kept working- and I am fine with that. I really don't know any other way.The real love of my life is my pup- Pearl, a 6 year old Bichon. She is my constant companion and spoiled rotten although she never has birthday parties or cute outfits. I love her to death but she is definitely a responsibility. Sometimes she cramps my freedom but other times I need that. She came into my life after my store was on it's feet and I was in a routine of retail. I believe the Lord brought her to me (as her discovery was a real serendipitous story). She has taught me what unconditional love really is as most pets can do.
Her first baby picture taken on Shabby Chic bedding at the first store.
Above, Pearl's first paying gig for Hallmark.
If the truth be known, my real, true love is Sam Shepard. Somebody tell him, please. I'm tired of waiting.
Q: What is your background?
My mom and dad on their wedding day.
Me at six months.
1949, My mom and three older sisters.A: I was born and raised in Kansas City and have lived here all my life. I am the youngest of four girls and the only one in my family with an artistic vocation. (translation: the black sheep). My sisters took care of the family thing and at last count I have 30 nieces and nephews- so the grandbaby thing is covered. A few shots of the nieces and nephews below.
Q: What was your education and past jobs?
Me in 1978 beginning my fashion photography 'career'. Anyone who took a photography class has this shot of themselves.I was heavily involved in theatre in high school and college and wanted to be an actress/singer. After college I also became interested in graphic design and fashion photography which lead to jobs as a studio manager, photo assistant and production artist.
My best friend Randy (from high school) and I both went to Paris together. He for modeling, me for photography. He died of AIDS in 1985.During one crazy spell at 21, I took my portfolio to Paris and tried to get work as a fashion photographer. (I lasted 3 weeks). 12 years later I went back to London, Milan, Paris and Germany to try and begin my career as a makeup artist doing European magazine editorials. I got my foot in the door in Milan but woke up one day and said, "What the heck am I doing here?". I had an epiphany and came back home with a fresh attitude.
Back in K.C. I worked as a makeup artist and photo stylist for 19 years before opening my store. I was hired to buy props, design sets and to work with models on fashion catalogs doing hair, makeup and wardrobe. I worked on a lot of print ads, videos, movies and well over 200 TV commercials. Nothing exceptionally glamorous although I met and worked with some famous people and always in interesting locations.
1987, assistant food styling for Houlihan's restaurant.
1988 , working with Paul Newman on Mr. & Mrs. Bridge.
My nephews were far more impressed with me working with Joe Montana than Paul Newman!
Working with Clint Black and Wynonna for the cover of TV Guide. (He was an a**hole, she was a gem).
This crazy shot above was taken in Nashville in 1989 when I drove there to try my luck at working on Country Music Videos.
Above, with Gary Sinese on the HBO movie, Truman.
Working on the Robert Altman film, Kansas City.
Photographer, Hollis Officer and I in Key West shooting for Payless Shoes. (really!)
Shooting in San Francisco for Houlihan's.Q: What is a day in the life like for you now as a retailer?
A: I think one reason I was so successful as a freelancer was because I hate routine. It is one of the things I struggle with as a retailer because once you are open, daily operations can become monotonous although every day is a new story and something different always seems to happen.I am not an early bird. I am a night owl so I usually do not make it into the store until 10:30 or 11 with latte in hand and dog in tow. Sometimes I run shop errands before I get in. Sometimes I drink a pot of coffee at home while checking the email and bank account which makes me really late getting in.
90% of the time I am in my office planning the future of the store. Checking messages, returning calls, following through on anything and everything shop related. I spend my days on the computer, researching and ordering product, designing advertising, writing presentations, planning travel, planning events and juggling the money. I might meet with reps, friends, customers and staff. I may unpack boxes or unload my car full of antiques. I may rewire a lamp or repaint a cabinet. I may be making a mess in my office sewing, gluing or pasting something. The day is gone before I know it. I may stay late and redecorate or run to an antique mall to find something at the last minute because we may have sold something important that day. My days off are generally Sunday and Monday when I am still 'working' as I antique for the store. I have my favorite stops or I may drive and hour or two out of town. I am not an auction, garage sale or estate sale shopper. I am lazy that way and hate all the waiting or driving and hunting and stopping and starting. I know I miss some great deals this way. I prefer a small town with lots of antique stores or one giant mall in the middle of nowhere. I like it to be as relaxed as I can make it, incognito and easy. (ie: air conditioning!) When the environment is complicated it is hard for me to get my 'eyes on' and search through so much product.
I wander home around 8-9:30 at night, some carry out or frozen dinner in hand to read my daily magazines and catalogs, work on a project, watch Bravo or maybe check the email one more time. The next day it starts all over again.
When I am out of town at market or at an antique fair it is usually the same routine except I am on my feet 10-7 shopping for the goods, talking with fellow retailers or junkers, hauling things to my car. At night, I try to see an attraction somewhere in the city I am in, a store or great restaurant, then back to the hotel to do the shops business online.
Q: What do you think is the #1 misconception about you?
A: I don’t think there are any. Everyone has an opinion and a story about you. It's just their take.
I care tremendously about every detail and how people see my business, which makes others think I am a control freak.
I can be brutally honest, which makes people think I am mean.
I am a loner, which makes people think I am shy, cold or self centered..
I also have a sarcastic sense of humor, which make people think I am hiding something or insecure.
My faith also dictates my opinion on many issues, which make others assume I think I am always right.
Q: What inspires you? Where do you get your ideas?
A: Anyone who is a visual person will tell you they get ideas from everything. I can see a construction site that may inspire how I want to build something in the store. A new gown in Vogue may give me an idea how to sew a pillow. The grey, distressed wood color of our shipping palettes is what inspired the new color I am using to repaint my living room. The list goes on. It is just how you process what you see. I can't go anywhere without noticing the design of something- sometimes a curse. (just ask my staff!)
Q: What do you look for when you shop for antiques? How do you know what to buy?
A: My eye is first drawn to the color of something. Is the patina right? Has it aged the right way? Is the white the right white? Not freshly painted, not fauxed or too yellow or too pink. Is the texture right? Not new trim or new hardware or new anything that doesn't blend with the item. What is it's purpose? A collection of cool items can be one thing but if it is not an object 'd art, is it functional? How can customers use it? And finally, is it unique?Once again, I always look at the design of something. It may be a fabric item or glass or metal but the color, texture and shape are important. Does it fit my brand or the style I have created for Curious Sofa? I also feel a bit of divine intervention when I shop- I really do. I feel I am blessed this way. It really is a God given talent to see the beauty or uniqueness in items others may not see- to pull the look together. I have noticed when I shop with other people- some pro's, some not- we do not see things the same way. Which is good! It is what sets us all apart. I also think after years of doing this you become better at weeding the gems from the junk. You have to learn how to focus. All in all, it is hard to explain. I just know it when I see it.
Q: What is your favorite item in the store right now?
A: This is tough as I love many things:
The crowns by Cody Foster,
Our new, lush bedding from Matteo. with frayed edges, layered bedskirt and 12" crocheted fringe!!
I love the new rouched pillows from Bella Notte- in dark gray,the new glass desk we have to add just a touch of modern,
the giant wine bottles,
the metal pub chairs,
and the palette headboard Donnie built,
I also love the new lawn chairs...Q: Do you regret moving your store from the funky, downtown Crossroads district to the newer, suburban shopping center?
A: Ahh! I have a feeling everyone wants to know the answer to this. The honest answer is no. But there are some aspects I miss a lot.I miss: the hip, artistic, urban customers we got that never had to ask, "What kind of store is this?" They didn't need too much hand holding, they understood the mix of new and old and they saw what they wanted and bought it without needing to know where to put it.
I miss: a smaller size store that was easier to manage by myself so I could spend more time on the floor visiting with customers instead of taking care of the other side of the business in the office.
I miss: the urban vibe we had, being a part of a new development that was getting talked about and doing something in a neighborhood that was on the cutting edge.
I miss: Having less stress, less rent, less bills and managing only one employee.
I do not miss: The bad parts that come with being downtown: traffic, noise, parking issues, safety issues, no loading area, no storage, bohemian varmints that came into the store.
I do not miss a smaller store that inhibits the ability to experiment with decorating and buying new items.
I do not miss the stigma with downtown shopping and the people that are fearful of driving there.
I do not miss feeling isolated and not having walk by traffic.
I do not miss customers cars being towed away.
I do not miss wondering if we are going to have any business each day.
Change comes with change. Some things are given up for other things. I do not regret moving but as the store grows up and I grow up, things change and certain lessons are learned and some elements become more clear. Some things I wanted then I do not want now and vice versa. You learn to adapt. If I had to do it over I admit, I would have still moved to a high traffic area but maybe with the same square footage (1500 sf) so it would be easier to manage. But how would I have known that?
Q: You post things occasionally and mention it once in awhile, are you religious?
A: Yes. I am a born-again Christian, right wing, conservative, pro-life, Republican. Gulp. There, I said it.Q: What look or style are you into now?
A: I am ready to change everything in my house to gray and white. Neutral colors, natural fabrics, wood, metal, stone with simple, easy styling. I love American Country and I love the European farmhouse look. Easy enough to combine the two. I am ready for a 'down to the studs' garage sale to get things simple for the first time. I am ready to buy $500 sheets and one of everything I need in the best quality. I have been on a quest for the perfect pair of jeans and will buy seven pair when I find them. The same with the shirt, towels, dishes, etc. Luckily I have the store to keep the clutterbug in me satisfied, but all of this will translate to the shop as well over time.Q: What is it about you and Ralph Lauren?
A: He is the king of style, showmanship and retailing.I know as well as anyone that he does not do it all but what a testament to his business to be able to design it, grow it and delegate your style to read the same across the board no matter who is working on it! This is any artists dream- and to be successful doing it!
I love Ralph because he puts a finish on his work. Every look he has is complete from floor to ceiling from hairstyle to shoe color. He has many looks but they all have his stamp of perfection, even if it is a dusty tepee in the African desert or Ivy Leaguers on a boat in their swim trunks. He is a master of details, chooses color perfectly and understands lifestyle and the new/old mix.
A friend of mine told me this story: He was in New York visiting the Madison Avenue store of RL. When he arrived there was a line of people around the block, each holding a birdcage with a bird. He later learns Ralph is casting for the perfect bird to be used in an ad. THIS IS WHAT I AM TALKING ABOUT. He said it was then that he 'got it!'. Ralph cared enough to have a casting call for the bird!!! It's all in the details.
Q: When are you writing a book, opening another store, franchising or designing your own line? What is next for you?
A: I have absolutely no desire to do any of the above. Why? Because none of it pays well and/or takes too much work. I would also not be willing to negotiate artistic control. If however, someone wants to pay me handsomely for any or all of the above, let's talk. I was recently working with a company helping them to design a new line of home decor. Currently, it is on hold and it broke my heart as I was so excited and artistically challenged by it. Now it will take awhile to trust again.
Q: Is the store paying off handsomely? Are you rich?
A: Does the term 'blood from a turnip' mean anything to you? I take a bare-bones salary from the store, much less than I earned in my previous life. I have a tremendous bank loan to pay off from opening this new store and I live hand to mouth each month, paycheck to paycheck. There is no trust-fund, inheritance or rich uncle. What you see is what I got. Not a penny more. Anyone who owns their own business knows the answer to this one. Ask me again in 10 years. Acquiring money is hard in retail as you have to keep spending it on product. Only when someone hires you for your experience and talent can you make real money.
Q: What is your favorite magazine:
A: World of Interiors for it's raw, bohemian, unfiltered style. Country Home for a fresh look at country style (but I am not sure with the new staff, time will tell), Country Living for a 100% focus on who they are, and most European design magazines as they are not Americanized at all. Their mix of really old items with everyday necessities is always fascinating.Q: What is your favorite part of being a retailer?
A: It would have to be antiquing for merchandise because that has been a passion and interest of mine since I was a child. To be a buyer, collector, artist or designer (whatever I am) and have a venue to use it is huge. I can buy most things I desire to put in the store (within financial reason) instead of taking them home or leaving them for someone else. Discovering these items for my customers makes me very happy. I have always wanted to be known as a store that sells great, unusual things. I care about the sales, the customer service, the shop protocol and all those business things, but I care about the product and styling of the product more than anything. This is why I am not on the floor much. My job has been done when the items hit the floor. Would you stop going to your favorite restaurant because you never see the owner? No. You stop going when the food is not memorable.Q: What is your least favorite aspect of being a shop owner?
A: Living and breathing by the results of the cash register.
Q: When are you going to start shopping in Europe and bring us the goods?
A: Believe it or not, this is on the radar. I have never done it but just last week I sent an email out to a few friends telling them I needed someone to hold my hand at the Paris or Belgium Flea Markets- a guide or translator, anything. I am getting ready as it is inevitable to the future of the store. I am concerned about the wad of cash you need to make it profitable, but I still need to jump in and do it. I also struggle with just how European I want the store to get as I still love American Country and the simplicity of it. You also cannot beat the prices I can charge around here. My customers might freak when they see the price of some of these French antiques. I need to choose carefully.Q: What 10 things could you not live without?
1. A project.
2. A Pilot G-2 05 black roller pen.
3. Mexican food twice a week.
4. A loving pet.5. My reading glasses.
6. Starbucks lattes.
7. Antiquing.8. Interior design magazines.
9. A good lip balm.
10. Faith.
Q: What has been your saddest moment in life?
Also, do you want to talk about Lynn?
A: Without a doubt my saddest moment was watching my father die of cancer 26 years ago. I miss him every single day and think of him constantly. He was only 54.As far as Lynn goes, some people know and some do not. I chose to keep quiet about it and let others talk if they wanted to. Lynn Steely was my friend who committed suicide seven weeks ago. What can I say about it? She was the most talented person I know and I will always remember her. She was an antiquer, writer, stylist and fellow comrade. We drove to Round Top together three years ago. As I leave this Sunday to shop there again, I am sure many memories will flood over me.
For those of you who might have it, she was featured in the book Trade Secrets (along with Clutter's D'ette Cole).
I have been saddened how much suicide is going on out there. It truly is a tragic, tragic moment for the living. My niece said something hugely important to me which enabled me to make some sense of it. Her own father committed suicide when she was in her 30's so I knew she would have some valuable advice. Lynn sent me a goodbye email hours before she died. I was sitting right at my computer when she sent it but I did not pick up the phone to call her. (she was out of town). I told my niece I will have to live with that forever. She said, "Don't fool yourself thinking there was anything you could have said or done to stop it. We do not have that kind of power". She was so right. It was a painful loss for me and all of the world that should have known her someday.
Q: What motto do you live by or what is your favorite quote?
A: 'You know the truth when you hear it'.
P.S. Save the comments about the hair, wardrobe and weight- this was painful enough to put together!
42 comments:
Just read your 20 questions. What great fun! It sounds like you have a very full life however, I was saddened when I read about your friend. Your niece gave you the best advise. When someone is considering suiside they are unable to see beyond their pain.
I hope the Lord heals your heart.
I just read your recent blog entries, and was intrigued by your "get to know you" q & a. I just wanted to commend you on your answers about religion. I have loved your store since I read about it and had the privilege and joy to actually walk through the doors and love it all the more knowing how open honest you are about yourself. It seems too often people are ashamed to take a stand for the Lord, so glad to see someone unashamedly standing for HIM. You're in my prayers about your loss...good friends are a gift and a blessing and I mourn your loss of your dear friend. On a lighter note, I get a great kick out of your humor/answers and can completely relate to a sarcastic sense of humor and the joy of time alone (I have 2 boys, what can I say!!!) Blessings and happy antiquing, Toni S.
What an amazing post! Hurrah to you for such an undertaking! I adore the picture of you, your sisters and your mother... I had so many thoughts along the way, but mostly I just wanted to say how great it was that I got to meet you and Pearl in front of your store during my brief visit last October - even more special now that I know how rare it is to find you "out front" at all! Thanks again for all the inspiration! I always love to see where you are going to go next...
Such a fascinating and touching insight to your life. You are truly a beautiful soul and I admire your determination to follow your vision.
Hope you enjoy yourself and score some treasures at Round Top!
Rita
I'm so sorry for your friend, for the loss of life, for the loss of friendship - it's always so sad...heartbreaking.
Thank you for sharing these private things - it's always nice to know more about people who I admire.
From a Republican, G2-05 pen/Mexican Food/Dog loving loyal reader!
Loved getting to know you better...it's amazing how nothing was really a surprise after reading all your blogs the last 2 years. Except for the loss of your friend...my sympathy and prayers go out to you dear one....The Lord, time and sharing will ease the pain. (Hugs are good too.) Thanks so much for sharing with us your store, your creativity, and your life. I still hope we get a chance to meet in Canton. Praying for you to have a safe, fun and prosperous trip to Texas...
Blessings and Hugs!
Patti
I have enjoyed your blog for some time. You have an amazing eye and I am fascinated at every visit. It was nice to read about you. Thank you for sharing. May you find peace with your friends death. Have a great time at Round Top.
Heather
You know you have "made it" when people want to know that much about you. I have to admit when I see such a successful business woman I wonder about their everyday life and want to know more about them, maybe just to see if I too have what it takes to "make it" as well. I love your store and visit your blog often. You are so talented and I think you would be shocked to know how many women look up to you. God bless you for your honesty and I am so sorry for the loss of your father and your friend. I can't wait to make it to your store. Paula
Thanks so much for sharing- I know that's not an easy thing to do.
God Bless
Beautiful and brave undertaking to put your life out there for all. As a sister in Christ and business owner I can relate!
Hi Deb, I'm a regular reader (but not a regular commenter). Just in case you suffered from "post-blog-why-on-earth-did-I-post-THAT?" syndrome, I want to assure you that it's ok! I loved reading your stories and learning of your faith, your life, and your integrity.
You're still on my prayer list!
Hugs and blessings,
Renee in Houston
Wow! What a great post. Thanks for all the truly interesting info especially the born again Christian, Republican part. Love that! I hardly ever leave a comment on your blog, but I read and look at it often. I have a little, bitty space in an antique mall. I get inspiration from your store pictures as to how to display items in my "shopette". Thanks for sharing. Wendy
Thanks for sharing, Debbie. So much of your personality comes through in the pictures of your store and your blog and it is an unexpected treat to have a more complete picture of you. I was most struck by how different we are (the gulp part) but at the same time I find myself saying "that's how I feel!" almost every time I read your blog. Nice to be reminded that we all have more in common than we think.
Deb,
Wandered to the Sofa blog for a breath of relaxation. Read about your grief. My eyes are wet and my heart literally aches right now for you and those who lost Lynn. I was at Round Top with a dear friend of mine three years ago as well.
The frantic pace of life often leads us to forget the things that are to be truly valued and cherished. Thanks for sharing your story. In grief and sorrow we all somehow learn how to love a bit deeper and live a bit happier, I think. I am so, so sorry you've had this heaviness on your heart.
My Best,
Susan
thanks for sharing deb - i've been a frequent shopper since you were downtown - and it's brave of you to share so much of yourself with us.
-from a spiritual, left wing, liberal, pro-choice, democrat who loves your shop :)
Sarcasm runs rampant in my family, so I couldn't be offended or think you are mean. I actually find you quite interesting.
I have a deep love for RL too that has been passed down from my mother. I actually have a couture tuxedo jacket and skirt in a size 4 that will never fit me again, but I can't get rid of it because I love it so much.
I'm deeply sorry for your friends death. I also hope you find peace with it.
Rue
Hi Deb,
I LOVE the photos and the head board in your store - yes, of course,I must first comment on the photography and the store, as those are my passions. But next, I must comment on your personal answers which I loved...I heard your voice in each answer and I have the honor in saying your are my friend and I hope we can make Belgium happen! Miss you and lots of hugs and kisses to Pearl.
Love,
Elizabeth
Hi Debbie -
I've been reading your blog, but only recently commented for the first time. I wanted to thank you for your vulnerability, and sharing a little more about yourself. It is nice to hear someone talk openly & honestly about politics and Christianity. I share your beliefs and think people should talk about the "j" word more often (that would be Jesus). thanks for inspiring many - Amy - Second Chance Art & Accessories
I am very sorry to hear about your friend. You are very brave to expose so many things about your personal life. Have enjoyed your blog for sometime & look forward to updates. Love checking out your store from afar. Glenda/Midsouth
Wow! That was beautiful. Thank you for your openness and honesty. So refreshing! May God bless you abundantly.
Thank you so much for sharing this about yourself. I always wondered but didn't think it was my place to ask! Others I see are more bold and I. It helps to know what drives artistic people. I so admire your style and others around me who just "know it when they see it". I find that quality inspirational- probably because I don't have that quality myself. I'm so sorry about your friend. Take care and thanks again for sharing.
maria/Illinois
I love your blog and find much inspiration from your pictures and words. I'm a teacher in Arkansas but a shop owner in my dreams. Thanks for providing a much-needed escape from grading papers! What would we do without G2-05 pens? Can't wait to visit your store when in KC to see a great friend. Keep up the amazing work!
Thank you for your honesty! I owned a retail/tea shop in a busy mall in NC and have felt every single emotion you described. I am a KC native myself and enjoy touching base with anyone or thing related to those roots. Hope to get to your shop the next time I am in town. Am in the process of another tea venture, so as you know, I will be busy, but will always find time to see what's happening at Curious Sofa.
Another Christian, right-wing, pro-life, Republican from KC
Cathy
What an interesting life you have had...thank you for sharing your life with us....I will keep you in my prayers and am very sorry that you lost your friend. Have a wonderful trip to Round Top and I hope you find wonderful and unusual treasures!!!
Don't you just love that part of some people that would like to pigeon-hole everyone into a certain catagory and label them!!! Well Deb, your 20 questions just shot that one down. I really admire you for opening up as you did...friends who are brave enough to share who they really are ... those are the best ones of all!!! And what could be better than walking around all day with Jesus in your heart.
God bless you
I am SO relieved! Relieved that someone besides me was yearning to know more about you. Thank you so much for your generosity of heart and spirit in sharing some of your story, both the happy and sad parts of it. I also appreciate your trying to convey how your gifts of vision and what-stuff-should-look-like happens.
And THANK YOU for reconfirming that details matter. Everyone thinks I'm nuts when I insist on a certain kind of pen to sign letters....and I bring home BOXES of pencils when I travel to Europe. Yep, others bring back jewels, clothing, treasures. I bring back pencils.
Thanks again...and blessings to you in all you do!
Mz Vickie in Sherman, TX
After 14 yrs my daughter & I closed our shop 8-07. There were parts of it that we loved, but the business end of it drained all the life out of us. We tried to continue being active in church, but extra things fell by the wayside. My daughter moved to ABQ, NM and in 2-08 my darling Izzie (Yorkie) died. When I lost Izzie it was like losing a baby. I know not everyone will understand how you can love a pet that much, but you can. I wish you only the best and since we travel in the same circles - Canton, Round Top, New York and Carol Bolton - we may meet someday. As the Lord is healing my heart I pray that yours will be healed as well.
I am so sorry for your little Izzie passing. My friend Michelle lost her Bichon this month and it has been a tough healing. No one but dog lovers can understand this pain. They really are our little babies- so loving and harmless. I dread the day....
You inspire me with your honesty and forthright manner. Your store is beautiful. I am so sorry about your friend. My husband died 2 months ago and my Dad was just diagnosed with cancer. I have had sorrow for a constant companion for awhile.
But I am trying so hard to stay strong and focus on the good. Your blog helps me to do that. I too am a loner.
love nita
Debbie
Thank you so much for sharing your life with us!!! Although, I am very sorry to hear about your friend. I understand what it is like. In time, the hurt will diminish, you are in my prayers.
Jackie
Great Blog. I'll visit often. Thanks for sharing.
Judy
This post is simply excellent. You've led an interesting life as the "black sheep" and it's apparent to me that you are one of those authentic people who are comfortable in their own skin.
I'm a little curious as to why people think it's brave to acknowledge your faith. Is it because the media as cast anyone with Christian, conservative and Republican views as some type of abberation?
I am very sorry for the loss of your friend. This is the most difficult thing to deal with, especially since there are so many guilt issues thrown into the grief pot. My best friend lost her daughter to suicide a year ago. It's so very hard, so very sad and so very difficult for the living.
Your 20 questions reveal a person who is interesting, hard working and just the kind of person who would make a great friend.
I'm still yearing for a road trip to KC to visit your shop. That's the kind of vibes you and your spirit create. Thanks for sharing.
- Suzanne, the Farmer's Wife
Thanks Debbie for our 20 q's. I have been a fan of yours for so long. I love that you know about things I like and care for...Cody Foster crowns, the new staff at Country Home. (Just got my new issue...help! Reminded me of BH&G and I am scared)I love your little Pearl, just like I love my little Rococo. I love that you are proudly Christian. And I am so sorry to hear about Lynn. I had her site marked on my favorites on my last computer and had not thought of it for a long time. I lost my dad to suicide. I am sorry for your loss.
Wow. Wow. Wow.
Thanks for writing this post. I always read your blog and now I know why. You are sustained by Someone Substantial, which puts meaning to your life.
Thanks for sharing the answers to questions I didn't even know to ask.
Blessings!
*Heidi*
Everyday Cookies blog
Debbie ~ I really enjoyed reading this q & a post. So many thoughts went through my head while I was reading. But mostly I appreciate that you're so open about the ups and downs of your life, the behind the scenes of your shop, and as always, I enjoyed how candid you were/are. I always enjoy your wit, and your decorating style is so inspiring. I'm so sorry for the losses you've endured. It's never easy to lose a loved one...
Thanks for sharing these bits of your life with us. I admire the work you do, and it makes it all the more interesting to me to know a little more about you!
~ Jennifer
Thankyou for showing us a little about you...what makes you tick - where that inspiration, drive and creativity bubbles up from. From someone 'downunder', who will probably never make it to your store in person, but loves to read and visualise it through your blog, thanks again for taking the time for us. You are an inspiration. Have a blessed day,
Shani @ christmasriver.wordpress.com
Well. Thank you for sharing, I too, read your blog. I am so sorry for your loss, God will, and is there for you,and, your artisic world, that I just love, by the way. Oh, and I love your hair...I'm actually jealous and may, today, go and cut mine. Thank you for being you. You have touched us with you honesty, and talent. I will keep you in my prayers.
Oh Dear. I think I am in love. With your vision, your store, your mindset, your eye, your website, your aesthetic. I was moved to email you these kudos for no reason other than I think you’re fabulous. I never seem to make it to Kansas City to actually get to shop your store. And if the truth be known, in a weird way I’m afraid it might break my heart to see such perfection in person…knowing it would be exactly what I would want if I owned a shop…exactly what I’m afraid I’ll never have. Your attention to detail is superb. I adore it all…the tags on your items, your color palette, and the easy breezy sophistication. I suppose before I signed off I just wanted you to know that I admire your hard work and wish you continued success.
Thanks for the magical inspiration! Sincerely, Jennifer A.
Hi Deb,
I love your shop but can only visit it by blog. I wish I could win Lotto and come and spend some money, to make you rich.
Thanks for sharing about yourself.
Julie Q
You're great. Thanks for your bold witness :)
And one more question outta the blue...I mean pink...could you drive a vehicle like Magnolia Pearl's LOL?!
Wow- You sound like a fascinating lady who wears her heart on her sleeve. So sorry to hear about your friend - Always so shocking to think that a person has no way out. Good luck on your venture to France/Belgium. If it is meant to be, it will. Suzy
your blog is so incredible - I love all your inspiration!
Just discovered your blog, and have been reading back to front. I stopped at this post, because I think you are incrediably brave and honest, and as others have said...it is refreshing!
I thought it before I got to this post, btw.
I am sorry for the loss of your friend.
If and when I get to KC again, I will be sure to stop in your store.
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