The morning pours through the windows of my Godmother's home. It is going to be a beautiful day. How many of you can say you slept on a porch, in a flower bed?
You see I wasn't joking, my Godmother has a flower bed on her porch. She likes to tease, that many "dream seeds," where planted on this bed. She is a beautiful rose, growing the most amazing garden of delights with her dreams.
My Godmother's house is gigantic, stuffed from the floor to ceiling with vintage everything. It is a wonderland for a girl like me. I know my Godmother was made in heaven, and I think God thought, "Hey if I give Corey this wonder-woman-flea-market-queen-of-a-Godmother, maybe she won't mind that I am going to give her a double chin and big nose too."
The slippers she gave me are not made of glass. Everyday should be a holiday, or at least summertime! Ah to wake up in a flower bed, and to be greeted with rose slippers with snowflakes on the toe... well it is fantasy made real where most things are possible.
Honestly every inch of my Godmother's house has a touch of Marie-Antoinette, Betty-Boop, and Martha Stewart stuck to it. I went into her closet and just screamed! She had rows of vintage prom dresses, and hats to match. Talk about bling-bling!
"Let"s have tea first, I am not good at making decisions at any time, especially in the morning," so she said, "Pick a teacup."
"Don't forget to grab a pitcher from the wall, there is cream in the fridge."
"Shall we take tea in the garden? Though of course the birds are using this cup as a birdbath."
Photos: My Godmother's home. A wonderland. A generous heart. Alice in wonderland, has a kindred spirit.
Would you like to come visit? A party is being planned.
There seems to be a party every day over the ocean ...!
Shall I get changed? I think it better to leave my "Fantômette" costume...
Now which one shall I choose? the mad hatter? or the Cheshire cat...???
Being a teacher, I believe the mock-turtle suits me better !!!
Tell your godmother so that she does not put me in the soup when I meet her at the door!
Posted by: Marie-Noëlle | 29 July 2007 at 10:14 AM
PS I just as well can play the birdie to reach that last cup...
Amazing house !!!
Posted by: Marie-Noëlle | 29 July 2007 at 10:16 AM
Oh...I imagine that sleep would be so sweet atop a flower bed! Your pics and posts are quite delightful. I just discovered your blog, and look forward to visiting again soon!
Lindy :)
Posted by: Lindy | 29 July 2007 at 10:27 AM
A woman of exquisite, unique taste... much like yourself!
If my mother saw the dresser full of teacups she would be thinking of what a job the dusting would be!
Posted by: gracie | 29 July 2007 at 10:52 AM
i'll be there right away, count on me. :O amazing!!
this is truly a wonderland of treasures. it all looks like themes from a fairy book, filled with stories to tell and memories to share.
wonderful post corey! sending all my regards to godmother from a dutch valley girl.
Posted by: marita | 29 July 2007 at 11:07 AM
Oh, such beauty. A true fairytle coming to life before our eyes...
Posted by: Nora | 29 July 2007 at 11:18 AM
What an enchanted home. I love everything you've shared, especially the flower bed on the porch. xoxo
Posted by: Betty Jo | 29 July 2007 at 12:36 PM
Heaven for you and such a glorious home full of love and treasure troves..........
How lovely ...........
I am sentimental about everything and if it were not for my children and husband
I would hang on to everything as they all have a precious memory.
Love you darling one.
Jeanne
Posted by: Jeanne | 29 July 2007 at 12:53 PM
The first thing that popped into my head was "treasure trove", but I see Jeanne had the same idea too :)
It's really what it is. I would be fascinated to go through and see what your godmother has in her home.
Posted by: Shannon | 29 July 2007 at 01:24 PM
Corey, your Godmother's home is wonderful! The flower bed, vintage towels, and to die for shoes!
Posted by: Hasmin | 29 July 2007 at 01:46 PM
You are the lucky one, down the rabbit hole!
Posted by: tut-tut | 29 July 2007 at 01:50 PM
Ah, a sleeping porch! Haven't seen one of those in ages (other than Savannah) but they are wonderful! And your godmother's house is bursting with a treasure trove of goodies. Thanks for sharing little glimpses with us.
Posted by: Paris Parfait | 29 July 2007 at 01:50 PM
Would I like to visit? why, yes please, thanks for the invite! What a beautiful and magical home, your Godmother's eye for beauty is worthy of any Martha Stewart. It really is a feast for the eyes, and I adore your family's sense of humour when it comes to home decor.
Posted by: cruststation | 29 July 2007 at 01:51 PM
Lets see, it is not quite 5 a.m. here by the Bay. If I hurry I should be there for brunch.
There's a real danger that once in the door I may never leave.
Darla
Posted by: Darla | 29 July 2007 at 01:58 PM
Oh Wow your Godmother's home is absolutely gorgeous, I bet she is wonderful too.
Posted by: carolyn | 29 July 2007 at 02:10 PM
I'd call her a "fairy godmother". Someone out of a fairy tale for sure. No wonder you have such an enchanting blog, Corey.
Posted by: Karen Cole | 29 July 2007 at 02:33 PM
I absolutely agree with "Karen Cole"...
delphine
Posted by: delphine | 29 July 2007 at 03:10 PM
I love the flower bed.
And sleeping on a porch sounds soooooo dreamy.
I think I shall make one of those cups for the birdies here in Wisconsin :o)
I'm so happy for you Corey!
Posted by: Miz Booshay | 29 July 2007 at 03:17 PM
Your Godmother must surely be a Fairy Godmother all she has to do is wave her magic wand and your in a plce of fairy tales. Sleeping Beauty in her flowery bed, Cinderlla with her pink slippers and an invitation to a Madhatter's tea party - wonderful!
Posted by: cd&m | 29 July 2007 at 03:42 PM
that bed looks wonderful. as always your blog is a visual feast of beautiful imagery.
Posted by: destinationmetz | 29 July 2007 at 04:10 PM
I wish houses still had porches. My grandmother's house did but it was nothing like yours. I think I see where this talent of yours comes from.
Posted by: Linda | 29 July 2007 at 04:22 PM
oh i would love to visit...and pick a cup...and savor the surroundings...this is how i want to live...blessings, rebecca
Posted by: Cre8Tiva | 29 July 2007 at 04:26 PM
Wow! That's a fantastic house! I love the flower bed...I collect and use vintage floral sheets as well.
Posted by: Alexandra | 29 July 2007 at 04:43 PM
Lucky birds!
I wonder if they'll paint that pretty cup?
Thank you for taking us along!
Posted by: ParisBreakfasts | 29 July 2007 at 04:52 PM
Honestly, Corey. Between your mother and your Godmother's houses, it's not difficult to see where you come by your charming and enchanting style.
Posted by: AnnieElf | 29 July 2007 at 05:18 PM
Corey - how truly delightful! And I am so thrilled that your Godmother will grace our presence today! Cannot wait to meet you in WONDERLAND!
Posted by: Ulla | 29 July 2007 at 05:24 PM
What a beautiful tour of your God Mother's home. You have a beautiful blog. Happy Sunday to you, Theresa
Posted by: Theresa-Garden Antqs | 29 July 2007 at 05:28 PM
Corey,
The porch reminds me of my Grandmother's house. I slept many nights in her screened-porch. I loved it then and I love your Godmother's porch too.
Sharon
Posted by: Sharon at American Harvest | 29 July 2007 at 05:50 PM
ahhh just like the sleeping porches here in wi (cept you'll find it a tad bit more lodgey and less flowery:( that godmother mother and you oh my what a whimsical delightful threesome you all make! I would love to wake up on that bed with the fresh air and sunlight being the first thing that greats me! xo
Posted by: mgm | 29 July 2007 at 05:55 PM
Reading everything and seeing your posts on your childhood and godmothers home, I can see where the seeds that were planted in you that have come full bloom come from!
Beautiful wonderful you!
Posted by: angela marie | 29 July 2007 at 05:58 PM
Oh you lucky Corey to have *landed* at Wonderland and be hosted by Miss Alice herself! I am pea green with envy, wishing you all a lovely day!
Posted by: Sally | 29 July 2007 at 06:05 PM
We want a photo of her closet with the prom dresses and shoes! You are surrounded by beauty and wonderful people Corey. Thank you for sharing your life and photos.
Posted by: martina | 29 July 2007 at 06:27 PM
What an interesting family you have...and I mean that in the best way!
It seems that the enchantment that you pass on was given to you by your mother and god-mother!
Posted by: Beverly | 29 July 2007 at 06:45 PM
Hello Corey , I understand why you are an antiques' addict !!
This house is incredible .
Posted by: Mélanie | 29 July 2007 at 06:50 PM
One feels the love exuding within your family, both in California and France. You are a very, very fortunate person along with those surrounding you.
Posted by: Carol | 29 July 2007 at 06:50 PM
her home looks like it's a story book! :-)
Posted by: Frieda | 29 July 2007 at 07:02 PM
That would be my favorite place to have a tea party!
Posted by: My Melange | 29 July 2007 at 07:20 PM
You certainly picked the right Parents and Godmother.
It looks like your Godmother has had an influence on your life.
Her house is dreamy...I love the way she displays her milk pitchers.
Posted by: Mo'a | 29 July 2007 at 08:57 PM
Exquisite. I am transported...on a day I truly needed transporting.
Posted by: Sue K. | 29 July 2007 at 09:01 PM
Your godmother's home looks like a wonderland and an enchanting treat for the senses. Prom dresses, teacups, a FLOWER bed - what a GRAND idea! Oh to be able to wander about in awe and absorb it all. Lucky you to have those women in your life - (your mom and Godmother). I am so happy you shared this.
Your visit is filled with love.
XOXO
Posted by: LisaOceandreamer | 29 July 2007 at 09:02 PM
Please...can I come for tea? I will leave enchanted, happy, and fulfilled!
Thank you so much for sharing this wonderland.
xoxo
Posted by: Colette | 29 July 2007 at 09:31 PM
Was all that REAL? Or did I just DREAM it?!?!
Posted by: ~jolenemarie | 29 July 2007 at 09:36 PM
What a beautiful, charming, & absolutely homey home your godmother has. I know you must have been relishing the time.
Rhoda
Southern Hospitality
Posted by: Rhoda | 29 July 2007 at 09:43 PM
wow! i don't even know here to start.. those towels! those tea cups. how beautiful!
Posted by: jennifer | 29 July 2007 at 10:45 PM
I would *love* to come visit. Sounds like just the ticket; a place where dreams come true (or at least start).
Posted by: Star | 29 July 2007 at 11:08 PM
well,
why am i NOT surprised
that you have a fairy godmother?
if you sleep in the flowerbed,
do bluebird sing you awake
and then make the bed up for you
the next day?
i was just wondering,
lucky girl.
:-)
Posted by: somepinkflowers | 30 July 2007 at 12:16 AM
Hi Corey! I absolutely love the photos taken at you Godmother's (a fairy Godmother with a twist of Alice in Wonderland).It's certainly a place I'd feel happy to take tea in.I love the fact that you describe it as a touch of marie Antoinette, Betty Boop and Martha Stewart.A wonderful post as usual!
Posted by: Marge | 30 July 2007 at 12:17 AM
oh my my y...that flower bed is amazing! :)
Posted by: jenny | 30 July 2007 at 01:09 AM
What's the address. I'll be there in about 10 hours.
Posted by: domesticat | 30 July 2007 at 02:58 AM
Corey,
She is like a fairy godmother. What fun. I love that bed!
Rosemary
Posted by: Rosemary | 30 July 2007 at 04:02 AM
The vintage teatowels remind me of my mom and grandmother. What an enchanting place.
Posted by: Lisa | 30 July 2007 at 04:08 AM
What a lovely, precious, wonderful home!! I want my home just like that!! Comforting and inviting. You are a lucky girl to get to sleep in the "flower bed"
Teresa
Posted by: Teresa | 30 July 2007 at 04:18 AM
Is that Heaven? If it's not... I hope that's what the real Heaven is like!
Posted by: Susan | 30 July 2007 at 04:48 AM
What a treasure trove of wonders. You could get lost in there exploring!
The teacup suspended on the pipe in the garden would be fantastic with a lit tealight in it at night.
As for the double chin and the big nose, perhaps you are the only who sees it, because your beautiful and that goes for the inside as well as the outside. I don't think people see our flaws as much as we see our flaws.
xo
Blue
Posted by: Blue | 30 July 2007 at 05:00 AM
Uhmm..gee...yikes!
When did you get so "BIG"???
I guess I've been working way too hard...I missed the EXPOLSION!!!
xoxo
d
Posted by: Deborah | 30 July 2007 at 05:11 AM
A party? Did I hear party? I would be delighted to come!
Corey...love your photos!
Posted by: Dee | 30 July 2007 at 05:32 AM
No wonder you are so amazing, you come from artistic stock.
Thank you for sharing your trip back home with us.
Posted by: penny willoughby | 30 July 2007 at 05:45 AM
What a magical mystical place! I would give almost anything to sleep on a flower bed on the porch. And to pick a pitcher off the doorway and, well, I could go on and on. You are truly blessed! Oh, and yes! I would love to come! I'd like to meet the woman who put this home together.
Posted by: candy | 30 July 2007 at 05:52 AM
I'll join Marita in sending your Godmother our regards from Dutch Girls.
Corey, what a blessing to have a godmother so inspiring and wonderful!!
Lidy
Posted by: FrenchGardenHouse | 30 July 2007 at 06:37 AM
oh - flower bed dreaming...roses, violets and sweet pea...rich chocolate earth a mattress of love just plant a little seed and it grows into a field of dreams and possibilities abounding rest here...in this flower bed lay your head on this pillow of lavender hopes of yarrow roads
and travel thus...until you find your home this fairy godmother knows the way xox - eb.
Posted by: eb | 30 July 2007 at 07:25 AM
She is a Fairy Godmother! I am so loving her house...absolutely a charmer in every sense of the word!
Posted by: Flea Market Queen | 30 July 2007 at 08:15 AM
Oh to have a fairy-like-place like that to visit...I love the bed!
Posted by: Connie W | 30 July 2007 at 02:32 PM
My jaw is dropped in sincere awe...yes God matched up the godmother with the god-daughter PERFECTLY!
Posted by: shabbyinthecity | 30 July 2007 at 02:35 PM
Ohhh can I move in to your godmothers. Talk about heaven. Although I would probably never leave. Akkkk it is all to lovely xoxoxo Clarice
Posted by: clarice | 30 July 2007 at 04:49 PM
I feel like Alice...in marie antoinette wonderland...
a visual treat...
Posted by: stephanie | 30 July 2007 at 04:56 PM
She is like the Fairy Godmother! What a beautiful home! I love the flower bed on her porch!
xo
Posted by: Regina Clare Jane | 30 July 2007 at 07:46 PM
OMGosh Corey, your Grandmothers house is SO SO cool & gorgeous! And I can see that your talent is definitely genetic, what a creative family you are! Looks like you're having a wonderful time here in the USA!
Posted by: carlene | 30 July 2007 at 10:02 PM
The most enchanting post of enchantment received. Loved it!
Donna
Posted by: The Decorated House | 30 July 2007 at 10:45 PM
I loved this post! thanks for sharing such a wonderful place and time.
(I collect pitchers and was tickled to see your Godmother's hanging on the door post.)
Posted by: nonizamboni | 30 July 2007 at 11:53 PM
this is like from a fairy tale.
Posted by: simple me | 31 July 2007 at 01:08 AM
Oh what fun! Your godmother really is a gift from God!
Posted by: susanna | 31 July 2007 at 02:45 AM
Oh, yes, I'd love to come visit! Such a beautiful warm home. And if I am not mistaken, this is "my" Laura Ashley flower pattern on the bed. I am sure you must have had sweet dreams.
Posted by: Merisi's Vienna | 31 July 2007 at 07:37 AM
Oh yes sure I'd love to come! What a truly whimsical and beautiful home! Carol x
Posted by: Boxwoodcottage | 31 July 2007 at 11:51 AM
OMG! I love her house. That flower bed and all those teacups and everything in that hutch; to die for.
Posted by: Gina | 31 July 2007 at 12:46 PM
Breathtaking! Dream-like. Heaven on earth. Ahhh..to nap on the flower bedecked bed, surrounded by pink walls that grow gorgeous cups and pots, soft lace curtains blowing in a sea breeze, a beautiful godmother watching over...xxxooo
Posted by: Jenny | 31 July 2007 at 02:54 PM
Your adventures remind me of this quote..."The tea table was set under the trees. It was a lovely sight....There were pyramids of strawberries and raspberries...and cakes with sugared icing..." - Consulea, Duchess of Marlborough
Posted by: Steph W | 31 July 2007 at 09:25 PM
Dear Cory's GodMother Mary,
I am also a Fairy Godmother "Beezy" and I would like to be adopted by you to learn the art of Fairyness.
I bow to your amazing magical qualities.
=)
xoxo
mb
Posted by: marybeth | 31 July 2007 at 11:58 PM
Oh Corey!1 How wonderful!! I love her house. It's almost magical! That is how I want mine to be when I grow up!! I'm gushing but I am dying to see more pictures!!
Posted by: Betty @ She's Sew Pretty | 01 August 2007 at 04:16 AM
Wow, what an absolutely amazing house, beautiful.
Posted by: sharon (glitterangel) | 01 August 2007 at 01:54 PM
Oh I wish I could come to visit your Godmother's wonderland! Are you sure she isn't a fairy godmother?
I was scrolling back to play catch-up after being away with my own grandgirls, but I had to stop here at this post, because I'm completely and totally enchanted!
Posted by: tinker | 02 August 2007 at 07:37 AM
Hi Corey, catching up with your blog tonight and enjoying every minute I sit here reading and every picture I see. You are a gift to my life, do you know that? And... I want to sleep in your Godmother's flower bed on her porch :-)
Posted by: carolyn | 03 August 2007 at 03:18 AM
The bed is...fantastic.
Posted by: Kari | 03 August 2007 at 07:16 PM
oh my gosh!!!!!! I just loooove your fairytale wonder house! You are an amazing designer(in progress). Hope to see you soon!!!!!!
yours truly,
victobo =)
Posted by: victobo | 20 August 2007 at 06:13 PM
Oh Corey - you are soooo lucky to have such a wonderful God Mother! Can I share her too? I am absolutely in love with her house, your photos and words are awesome and inspiring! I have alot of those same things packed away but may get them out now. They are absolutely lovely! And the bed on the porch is to die for! :) Marva
Posted by: Marva | 25 August 2007 at 04:49 PM