Photo by Deb Kennedy Retreat Design
It all began two weeks ago when Tim and I went to the French Flea Market sponsored by Haleys Cottage in Mill Creek. It was a beautiful, warm day. Booth upon booth lined the street each filled with dreamy treasures. I had my camera, I had cash and I had a vision of what I was looking for that day. In no way did an enchanting, creamy French foofy sofa fit into that vision, yet… There she was sitting in Deb Kennedy’s Retreat tent. nonchalantly I strolled over to where she sat. A large distressed price tag read SOLD. Of course, she was perfect in every way. From here beautifully worn hand rest to her perfectly tufted cushions. Tiffany of Shabby Scraps who was sharing the huge tent with Deb loved the couch as well and we both lamented about missing the opportunity to take her home.
Well, she was SOLD no use pining about it. Although, had I seen her first I would have scooped her up and carried her home on my back. On the way home I couldn’t get over that couch, I looked to Tim for affirmation yet he only declared, “it was just a couch.” Just a couch!, I thought. Why couldn’t he see Marie’s (I had already named her after Ms. Antoinette) sheer beauty, her perfect lines? That should have been my first clue.
That was September 12th, on the 18th I got an email from Deb. It seems “Marie” was again for sale. You can find out the details of how here. I wasn’t feeling well so I couldn’t jump on it but I did exchange emails with Marybeth of Poppyseed. She could be mine if I so wanted. I WANTED!
Here is where my dilemma begins. Tim, my wonderful husband, the man who has never denied me anything, gave me THAT look. The one that says, “do we really need this and furthermore where will you put it?” The one that notes, “you have eight French antique chairs in the barn that need stripping, painting and new cushions.” The one that declares, “there is a half finished ottoman in the barn and a mannequin you were supposed to do some artsy thing with.” I hate that look!
This wasn’t going to stop me, after all if I didn’t take Marie home someone else might and they could never possibly appreciate her as much as me. I measured every square inch of the house, every nook and cranny trying to find somewhere in this 4,000 sq. ft. house to put that couch. In the end, No Go!
Last night I was feeling pretty low – “I really want that couch” I told Tim. “Your a big girl, if you want it get it” he replied. YES! the go ahead light. I had worn him down (mostly with homemade apple pie) and he was ready to give in. All I had to do now was go and get her. So why didn’t I?
I guess as I get older I am realizing that another deal will always come along. Another Marie will appear at another flea market. The truth is I don’t have room for her right now. I would have to get rid of something else I love and I don’t want to do that either. Thanks to wonderfully talented people like Deb, Tiffany and Marybeth – more deals will come along. For now I am sure Marie will find a wonderful home where she will be loved and admired for her ageless beauty – it just won’t be mine.
If you are interested in Marie she is now on sale at Poppyseed in Stanwood. She has been cleaned and primped and she is ready for a new home. Just don’t tell me you have her.
Have a wonderful weekend my friends.
Amada
Oh, I am so sad that she ('Marie') is not going to be living with you! But you are right - there is someone out there who will find her to be the perfect match!
Posted by: Deb | September 24, 2009 at 08:54 PM
I'm so impressed and envious - you're a grown up!
Posted by: Tristan Robin | September 25, 2009 at 06:38 AM
What a great story. I can envision all the looks and thoughts just as you describe. Hopefully, when she is purchased and in her final home, the owner will publish a photo so we can all enjoy it.
Posted by: Carrie | September 25, 2009 at 08:53 AM
oh my goodness, I can't believe you didn't go back and get this couch!! You deserve it!!
xoxo, Tiffany
Posted by: Tiffany | September 30, 2009 at 05:38 PM