You may not have heard of Ann Lowe, but you’ve probably seen one of her dresses in pictures or a history book. Because she was African American her work was often overlooked by main stream fashion during her lifetime. She lived during a time in American history when society was strictly segregated, even in parts…
Is Your Dog Your Valentine? Four Hundred and Eight Four years ago this week Mary Queen of Scots was beheaded at Fotheringhay Castle. Her death warrant was issued by Elizabeth I due to Mary’s involvement in a plot to overthrow Elizabeth. Reportedly Elizabeth was very sad about having to issue the order to have her…
It’s mid winter and for many of us it’s cold outside, add in COVID and the result is that most of us are tucked up inside (maybe more than usual). I’ve been doing a lot of reading, tv watching, and of course blogging. I thought I would share with you what I’ve been consuming. I’m…
The Florida heat can be oppressive, but in Tarpon Springs you can almost feel the refreshing cool, dry breezes of a Mediterranean summer. OK- so it’s not the Mediterranean, but it is FUN and the Greek food is delicious!! The beginning of Tarpon Springs Located about 2 hours from my home base in Orlando, it’s…
Valentine’s Day is next month! These past few years it’s been a non-existent holiday at the Roper house. But, not this year! 2021 will be the year of Valentine’s Day! I’m planning a fun family dinner and yes, I am planning to dress up. Whether you are staying home or going out you’ll need something…
An abolitionist, Civil War intrigue, and an orange grove…… Welcome to the Bronson-Mulholland House in Palatka, Florida. The home was built by Judge Issac H. Bronson when he and his family moved to Palatka from their original home in New York. Bronson had been appointed as a federal judge by President Martin Van Buren. In…
If you know me you know I dearly love Chinoiserie. In fact, the very first blog post I ever wrote was about Chinoiserie. According to the Oxford Dictionary Chinoiserie is “the imitation or evocation of Chinese motifs and techniques in Western art, furniture, and architecture; especially in the 18th century”. Chinoisere designs in a home…