A Gift From the Sea ~ beachy whites.

When I think of beachy whites I think of Anne Morrow Lindbergh's book "A Gift From the Sea"
This book has influenced me over the years...the first time I read it I was in the throes of peri-menopause and felt like I was at sea with my emotions, trying desperately to keep myself ship shape and stable in a violent storm.
Her words helped me to take stock and to look for the small things in my daily round that would keep me on an even keel. Those wise words continue to inspire and resonate with me today.

I make a point to read Anne's book every year. You might enjoy reading it.
A small book which can be a quick read, if unlike me, you do not stop after each chapter to reflect and digest the message within...

Anne wrote a lovely account about "finding herself" in a beautiful place where she lived for a short time as she needed to escape from her duties as a wife and mother. Anne lived a very simple and solitary existence listening to the waves and watching the tides roll in and out with the rhythm of the sea.
The beach taught her many of life's lessons.
Taking time to be in a quiet place, seeking solace from her hectic life, she was able to stop, listen to her heart, and it was only then that she found inner strength, her truth and was able to find her voice.
Writing this book has been her gift to many of us who have struggled at some point with the demands of life.

I am so grateful to have stumbled upon her work...and I often ponder what it might be like to own a rustic simple white washed home by the seashore.

I love looking at shabby chic rooms in the magazines and online sites.
This look is very popular, however, it is not in keeping with our dark heritage designated arts and crafts bungalow.

Dreamy, creamy whites are so soothing.
Beachy seaside whites play a big role in our guest room decor.

The all white collection of beach glass sits beside a clam fossil and some coral.

Barnacle and shell in the background.

Shades of white.

Sunshine and shadows.

Can you see Chester's silhouette in the shadow?

Large shells are often sold at flea markets and antique malls.

I bought this one at a local flea market many years ago.

The distressed oar standing up behind the wicker chair was a boulevard freebie.

I stop for boulevard freebies, often quickly!

 If you are following behind me in the car proceed with caution and I do put on my turn indicator.

I abide by the rules of the road.

I am guilty of following rules to the letter and I cannot tell a lie...

perhaps a little teeny tiny white lie

but only if it concerns a wedding or baby shower or a surprise 

never ask me to lie for you, it cannot be done!

I've added a touch of pink...

reminds me of Rachel Ashwell who created the Shabby Chic shop and books.

I loved watching her TV show and would dream of having my own Shabby Chic cottage.

So this guest room satisfies my urge to live in such a cottage...

 if it was on a sandy beach I'd find myself walking barefoot in the sand while the waves wash in and wash out beach combing 

for some pure white sea glass and creamy shells.

"The sea does not reward those who are too anxious, too greedy, or too impatient. One should lie empty, open, choice less as a beach - waiting for a gift from the sea."

~ Anne Morrow Lindbergh ~