My husband retired from the Marine Corps almost 5 years ago after an honorable 30 year career. Our last duty station was in Beautiful Colorado. I was born and raised on Jacksonville, NC. In the back of my mind, I always knew I wanted to come back home. But, we decided we would explore some options before we planted our roots. After several destinations and explorations across the USA, we made the decision to come back to Jacksonville to be with family and friends, and knew without a doubt it was the right thing to do. We bought a lovely home – but one that needed much work. It had been on the market over nine months, in a time that homes were selling within 4 hours. Lets just say the previous owner’s DIY mentality may have turned off most buyers. (eek!) But not me! I saw past the really bad faux finishes, the really bad “crackled”cabinets (and the list goes on) to see the good bones of the home. Almost five years and a 25×25 addition later, we are finally getting this home to the point where I want it. At least for now…… 🙂 So I invite you to come along and tour my home. I will start with the formal Dining Room because that is the first room you see upon entering our home and looking in through the foyer. Its probably one of my favorite rooms, too. It speaks of my style, it represents our world travels, and sets the tone for things to come.
Welcome to My Formal Dining Room…..
Hanging over the fireplace is a tapestry I purchased in Brugge, Belgium. This storybook town is called the Little Venice of Belgium, known for its lace and tapestries. I found the two cabinets on each side of the fireplace in a second hand store, covered in dust and grime. I replaced the horrendous lime green velvet (I did not know they even made a velvet in that color!) with a red silk. Both cabinets display some of my collection of pink and white transferware and Staffordshire.
A wider shot of the Dining Room. This shows how the two china cabinets frame the fireplace.
This is a close-up of the inside of one of the china cabinets, and a glimpse of some of my pink and white pieces. The silk fabric on the back is a mini harlequin pattern.
Featured here is my fave piece of pink and white – a large soup tureen which had the original “spill” platter, ladle and (not shown) lid with a large cabbage rose top. I make my own floral arrangements. This one showcases all the colors of the room – red peonies, golden snapdragons, green fern. This arrangement also changes with seasons. I can simply add berries or wheat or any number of florals to change the feel of this centerpiece.
Martha says
Love seeing your dining room. I feel like I’ve been in your home and have enjoyed your hospitality.
View CommentKathysue says
Hi Barb, I am HERE! I came right over after the nice invitation. This is great I love reading about you and your wonderful family. I like seeing bigger better picts. of your home also. Now I have a brand new blog to go to. You are now on my list of favorites.I am off for the rest of your post. Great Job! Hugs Kathysue
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