Tuesday, April 4, 2017

Spring Greetings



Greetings dear friends! Thank you for all of your wonderful notes over the past several months, and please accept my sincere apologizes for not posting sooner. We moved into our house in the middle of September and although the move was just a few miles down the road, it proved to be just as laborious as all moves tend to be. In addition, the day that we moved, my computer expired, so I have literally been disconnected from the world. This felt deeply frustrating at first but with no budget to purchase another computer, as time passed, the lack of internet hours became somewhat of a respite.

Although we've been keeping a steady pace continuing to paint, build closets, install lighting, etc., we are still very much settling in and there is not one room that I could say is done. I’m beginning to realize that things are going to evolve over a very long time. This brought me great frustration at first because I cannot tell you how I calmed my nerves through many sleepless nights during the renovation with visions of a cozy, furnished household. But what I've found is that despite those unfulfilled visions, we are indeed making this house a home, and in ways that aren't necessarily seen or that can be necessarily captured in a photograph.

We are living in the house in its most purest form, nearly empty, and yet the coziness I dreamed of has come anyway. The sound of tiny footsteps on bare floors; the way the end of the day light makes the walls, the windows, and ourselves all shimmer in golden light; the silhouette of the leafless tree against a country moon; the way the walls lean here, and there, sometimes whispering the stories that played out before, before we came.

Outside, the wildlife sings a chorus. The rivers around our home bring birds and geese that cry and coo all hours of the day and night. Their sounds reverberate within me, offering a grounding to this beautiful world. When I wake at night, it is their cooing that gives me a smile to return to sleep on. Most mornings, there is a lone fox who weaves in and around our property. As we run to the windows, eager to say hello and welcome her here, I wonder, Is it she who is welcoming us?

I apologize once again for not posting sooner. I had plans to send Christmas tidings but I would be remiss to not mention the impact that our presidential election had on me. I don't know how else to describe it, but to say that the wind was taken from my sails on election day. Everything I hold dear, everything I hope for in a kind, just, intelligent, and compassionate world, retreated that day. Determined, I am calling our senators and representatives multiple times a week, sharing with them the weight of my worry over the risk to our democracy, and to our nation’s sense of humanity, grace, integrity, honor, and pure, simple kindness.

Dear friends, I am sending this note with a blessing of peace, wishing all of you the love of your family and the strength of your communities. Our blogs are only one of the many ways that we are all connected despite differences in landscape, culture, religion or race. We are the essence of true humanity - people linked together by our shared instincts for truth, fairness, and happiness, and to give and receive the most valued of human gifts - kindness.

As far as my blog goes, I still am unsure of when or how often I will post. Perhaps it is time to transition over to Instagram?

All of my warmest wishes,

Catherine

86 comments :

  1. Hello from Canada! I have been reading your blog for years.. love the simplicity and purity of your blog and life you share. I am a year into a renovation of my own and your post really hit home. I keep trying to rush things, and get down when I think I should be further ahead. I look at a specific project and think.. this shouldn't be taking so long! But your post reminded me that I am building a home, and that is a long journey I should enjoy.

    I do hope you share some pictures... whether here or on instagram. I so enjoy seeing your home and take so much inspiration from what you share.

    sincerely,
    Elizabeth

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  2. My heart leaped when I saw your new post today. I have missed your beautiful blog. I would be thrilled to follow you on instagram. Hope you decide to post there. I can so relate to your thoughts on the election. Thank you, what you said was perfect.

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  3. What a wonderful surprise to find your post in my blog feed this morning! I have missed reading your blog, as it has always been one of my very favorites. Selfishly I hope you continue to post; your insight into home renovation is always so inspiring. I'm sure as your family grows, your time is becoming more and more precious. If you decide to post only on Instagram, I will still feel very fortunate to continue to see photos of your lovely home as it unfolds. Many blessings to you and your family!

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  4. You are in my Feedly - I was delighted to see this post today.

    Please let us know how to find you on Instagram, as I'd love to see more of your home.

    I understand about the election, and the dismay. Thanks for the closing, with thought of peace and community.

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  5. So glad to hear you're in your new old home and that you're enjoying those fabulous elements of an old house.
    I share your feelings. I've written the beginnings to dozens of posts but find myself only venting my frustrations. I've long been anti-gram but thinking I might finally jump back on.
    Thanks for the update, good to hear from you!

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  6. So wonderful to hear from you. I have always looked forward to your posts, and truly look forward to MANY PICTURES of your beautiful home. That said, I understand the time it takes to keep up a blog . . . I don't post nearly as often as I used to. Whatever you decide my friend, know that your posts are anticipated and appreciated. And while I'm guessing our politics may not be the same, I am certain our hopes for our country, and for our children and future grandchildren are the same. Blessings to you my friend!! Have a blessed day!!

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  7. I was so excited to see your post this morning. I have missed your insight and lovely pictures. As Kathy says above, I too hope you continue your blog. It brings a smile to my face when I see new posts.

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  8. I am so relieved and happy that you, the family and your new home are well! Each morning as I open your blog, I hoped for a post, praying for your health and wellbeing. Yours was the FIRST blog I ever followed. I was drawn to you as a fellow Oregonian but mesmerized by your photos and design. So happy you are back among us! Mary Jamieson

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  9. I would so much hate to lose you, a note now and then, a photo, just a taste of things is all I require. I do not use or go to Instagram, I would miss you so. Your blog was the first I think that I ever followed when I began to Blog. You are special in many ways :)

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    1. I echo NotesFromAbroad's sentiments. Best wishes to you and your family, for all future wonder in your new home. Cheers, Ardith

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  10. Welcome back! I've missed your posts and wondered how your move has been going. I moved in June. It's definitely a process! Like you, the election and subsequent actions have left me utterly gobsmacked. I can understand your hesitancy about continuing the blog, but I would miss it if you discontinued it. Instagram captures moments and vignettes wonderfully, but I love a good narrative that combines with the images to make a complete story. Best wishes to you and all your family as you get more settled in the new house. Joan in Rhode Island

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  11. How wonderful! A new post from you! I've gone back and revisited the journey of your last home just to fill my eyes with some of your grace and beauty while awaiting the journey through this home.

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  12. Catherine, it is so nice to see you back! I thought that perhaps you had given up blogging, and I would so miss your lovely blog. Yes, do please pop on Instagram if it is easier! I would love to keep up with all your renovations over there, if that was your choice. I'm sure your home is lovely in spite of the to do list. Little by little, you will meet your goals for a beautiful home.

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  13. Oh, there you are! Congratulations for arriving at your new home. It must be beautiful. Instagram is a lot of fun to look at and keep up with. It seems many bloggers do both--more in-depth through their blog and quick little views through Instagram. Either way, I would LOVE to see pics of your renovations. It seems you are also in a lovely setting nature-wise. Best wishes as your continue to make your house a cozy home for your family!

    Kiki

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  14. Glad you are back and the move was successful. Do what you can for now. Instagram is certainly easier but I still love reading about the process. Maybe Instagram with an occasional post? Looking forward to seeing your home.

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  15. I am so glad to see this today. I feel like you have been gone for years ! And your blog was one of the very first I ever read, loved and made me want to be a blogger.
    About the election ... every 4 years, darling, 4 years. They have not all been wonderful and they really are controlled to some small degree.
    Just Look Ahead ... what comes next might just blow our socks off it will be so fabulous.
    Be optimistic ... there are so very many Good Things to think about ..

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  16. Missed you. I miss our old country, too.

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  17. Wonderful to hear from you . . .
    A beautiful message indeed . . .
    Through your words I can see and feel your indoor cozy and comfortable life in your new home with the pitter patter of little feet on the floors and I can also imagine the
    movement, mystery, delights of the animals, bird flights, nature scapes from outdoors.
    You write beautifully . . .

    I echo your thoughts from the stunning of election night . . . and encourage continued response, communication to our representatives and senators. Our democracy must be upheld . . . May integrity, honor, justice, compassion, kindness return to our land. Let those words be our mantra.

    Thank you for this message post . . . I hope you continue here . . .
    I enjoy the written words, thoughts in this form best.

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  18. I, too, hope you post on the blog from time to time, as I think you are a very good writer, and I would love to keep "reading you" as well as seeing your photos. Your third paragraph paints a poignant picture of the true beauty of your home. I too agree with your feelings on the election. But I do have to say that "Down on the Farm" shows the true American spirit in her comment, by respecting your right to your views, even though she does not agree.

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  19. Love love love everything about this post!! So happy to "hear" from you! Please do switch to Instagram .... it is so much easier to add/update! And maybe less pressure?? Either way, I will always be a follower!!

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  20. I too have missed your posts. You are such an inspiration. Yes please let us know your Instagram account. I think you will love it and it is so quicker than blogging Love Leanne (New Zealand)

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  21. Lovely post! I feel the same way about life as you. Unfinished projects, can cloud our thoughts, especially in the dark of night. But alas, the sunrises as do the birds, and children to a new day. I feel your appreciation of the beautiful, sturdy home you have and the dressings will be well thought out and enjoyed.

    Since the election, I have dismayed and cried at the lose of truth, fairness and so much more. I have been more than melancholy. Just knowing there are other like minded people who are doing their best in these times is a great connection. I respect you immensely for living gently and kindly. :) xo, Tina, Ohio

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  22. Surprise! It was so lovely to hear from you as if we're long lost friends. There are so many of us that feel bereft of hope. We must not lose faith, we must keep strong and work toward a better world despite the outcome of the election. Good must prevail! I do hope you find you want to continue to connect in some way...blog or Instagram. The gentle spirit you bring is essential to us all.

    xo

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  23. Catherine, which ever social media platform you decide is the right fit, I will follow. I can not thank you enough for contacting leaders in your community and actively engaging your civic representatives.

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  24. Whenever someone is brave enough to share their heartfelt feelings about the past election it never fails to lift my spirits. You're not alone my friend, i was depressed for two weeks following election day, since then I've joined other women friends and have become politically active in ways I never have before. My hairdresser got me involved, said it would give me feeling of being empowered knowing the issues and making those calls and it has. Good for you that you are too. I read somewhere that our politicians are receiving 70% of their incoming calls from women, I feel so proud. I do hope you try to keep blogging, even infrequently. That's my own approach these days.
    xo
    Leslie

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  25. So glad you're back! Instagram is a great place for quick, easy updates and your feed would be beautiful on a layout like that. Either way, I hope you'll let us know how to follow your home progress.

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  26. I love your blog and have missed your commentary on life and houses. Although I would most def follow on Instagram, my vote is "NO" - rather a few gems now and then than trying to decipher and find you there. Peace to you and your family. Peace to your new house.

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  27. Hi Catherine - I can not believe you posted today, I am so thankful. Yesterday I was going through my blog list, cleaning and deleting some blog I had followed that had not posted in a very long time. I came to yours and I could not delete it. I just wasn't ready to let go! Beautiful heartfelt post. My husband and I moved into our home in September and dived right into remodel, redo and refurbish. I can not say one room is complete yet and also have come to realize we are in this for the long haul. With each day, our house feels like home. These past months have been difficult and election night was very emotional and sad for me. Simple kindness has been at the forefront in my daily life more so now than ever. I face it head on when I see others being unkind or disrespectful. It is what I can do to try to make this world a better place. Thank you Catherine.
    Tammy - Warren, OR

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  28. My heart gave a wee jumo as I saw your post on my email feed! How lovely it is to hear from you and know that you are happy and peaceful. I appreciate the beauty of your convex mirror and it's reflective images.
    At some point in time, you will be ready to share more of your amazing home and impeccable style. No worries. We will be here to welcome you back.
    Take care and enjoy the journey of life.

    Catt-in-Kentucky

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  29. Welcome back, Catherine! You have been missed by many around the world. Connections are especially important in troubled times, so I hope you see the value in sharing with your readers. Finding pleasure in small things is a respite when there is so much beyond our control! I look forward to following your posts, either here or on Instagram. Hopefully, we can see all you have achieved since last August, and support you with all there is, still ahead.

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  30. So good to hear from you! And yes I agree on the election, I was sick for a couple of days. I would be OK with Instagram if it is easier for you! Just love hearing from you!!

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  31. I've checked your blog for a new post almost every day since your last post. I was sure something awful must have happened (it did - your computer died!). Thank goodness that is not the case. You have been missed. I can't wait to see what you did with the Sheraton Sofa!!! Welcome back. We are all happy now.

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  32. How lovely to read this wonderful, heart written post- just know that your sentiments are multiplied by the millions! We will endure, and wait for sanity, kindness, peace and hope to take a seat again at the table..
    I'll follow you on instagram, or wherever your journey takes you!

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    1. Hi Catherine: When I saw your email in my Inbox this morning, I was so relieved. I thought: Oh, good, that' exactly what I need - to look at some beautiful things that will make me feel better. I had missed your blog, although I thought it was just because my mailbox is too full and I was too busy to notice it.

      Then I opened the email and almost cried. No..... I want you to continue the blog. I want to see your farmhouse - when you are ready to show it to us, of course.

      I know blogging is hard. I having a hard time hitting Publish on my own food/book blog - and I'm a professional writer, which should make it easier?. Some days I get so discouraged I can't even look at the computer. We have money worries, too, and I'm not even living in a house I care about - which is why you were so inspiring. It's so hard to focus when the back of your mind is filled with doubt and fear.

      I am a Canadian, but I (and my husband and son) share your fears about the state of the U.S. We can hardly believe what we see on the news each night: it's like a bad sitcom, but with very dangerous consequences.

      I loved what you said about "our nation’s sense of humanity, grace, integrity, honor, and pure, simple kindness." Kindness. He's not a kind man, is he?

      I don't know what else to say. Instagram is great, but the stories are what really makes your blog. Don't give up.

      Wynn Horn
      Alberta, Canada

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  34. Catherine, you have been missed so much. I think we all wonder what calamity had befallen. We all wanted to see updated photos of your lovely home. If you do decide not to have a blog, please do a small house update for us. I share your election grief also, I think my Senators and Rep hear from me quite often these days. I have never been so active in the process. Best wishes to you all, and take care.

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  35. What a wonderful surprise finding a new post from you this morning. I enjoy your posts very much. Made my day. And thank you for being brave enough to voice your heart over the election.
    Holly

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  36. I gasped when I saw your post in my inbox today! I am so glad to hear from you -- I was so afraid you had a personal life crisis in your family. I am relieved that all is well in your new home. I really missed your beautiful usual Christmas posts. I so hope you will continue your blog and share pictures as you further feather your nest. And I am so glad to read in the responses that there is a place where differing views can respectfully disagree and love one another (especially in light of what just happened at Middlebury.)

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  37. As others are sharing, what a wonderful surprise to see your name pop up on my e-mail list! Each month as my "Country Living" magazine would arrive I would think of you and wonder how you were doing, so thank you for letting us know. It is strange to miss someone and their photos, but you have shown us how to incorporate the lovely in our homes. Letting go of social media is a hard decision to make, so know that we all understand. Instagram would be a welcome place to see the CONTINUING process of making a house a home, as all of us are trying to accomplish the same thing. Thank you again for sharing.

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  38. I was delighted to see your post pop up in my RSS reader today. I assumed that your silence was because the whole process of renovating, moving, and settling in is a *long* one, especially with two small people helping along the way. But, like a couple of others who wrote comments, I was a little afraid you were dealing with sickness or some other family crisis. So happy to hear that you are all in your house and well!

    I'll look forward to seeing pictures of your house whenever and where every you eventually post them. But I'd like to put in a vote for the blog, over Instagram. I've resisted Instagram so far, and I'd like to keep my social media accounts to a minimum. :-)

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  39. I was scrolling down my e-mails and my heart rejoiced as soon as I saw your mail! I'm so happy that you and your wonderful family finally moved to that beautiful house and I'm looking forward to see how the duckling became a swan! I've been following you for some years now and I've always found comfort in your words, pictures and thought. As everyone around the world I'm really worried about your political situation and I still can't believe how a country which was the beacon of freedom for us here in Italy has chosen such a horrible path! But knowing that there are a lot of people like you makes us hoping in a better future, for you and for us, too! Sending love to everyone

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  40. Truly enjoyed hearing from truly enjoyed hearing from you again! I have looked for you on Instagram, my handle is 'greylilycalligraphy' over there, but I do so enjoy your posts here too!

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  41. Catherine, thank you so much for your update. I, like others have commented, have truly missed receiving your interesting posts. My goodness, Margaret and Graham must be in kindergarten by now! Wherever you decide to communicate, I'll be delighted to be able to follow you.

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  42. What a lovely surprise to find your most beautifully written post this morning. It is good to know that you are all well and enjoying our new home.As kindred spirits, let us not give up hope for our country,but keep speaking truth to power. Thank you again for inspiring us all in so many ways.

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  43. I was so happy when I clicked on the link and a new photo appeared!! i had begun to despair that it was the end of your blog. Selfishly, I would hate to see you stop blogging. Instagram is so abbreviated and impersonal in comparison. However, I want to sympathize with the devastation some of us felt at the current political landscape. The silver lining in the cloud is that it has activated many of us to engage in the political process in a far more active way. Again, so thrilled you are back, and looking forward to your posts, in whatever form they take.

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  44. I do enjoy reading your blog and would miss it if you were to decide not to continue.

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  45. Welcome back! I enjoy your posts and hope more are to come soon. ~Miranda

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  46. Oh thank heavens you're back. Many of us share your grief and concern about the state of our country and indeed the whole world now. Very scary, uncertain times. But this is when we need blogs such as yours. To lose ourselves and our worries for a small amount of time while we enjoy your beautiful photos and words. I hope you decide to post some photos of your beautiful home....I have no idea about instagram and hesitate to add on yet another site to look at. I spend way too much time on the computer as it is!! I'll keep checking back here from time to time. Casey Devine

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  47. So nice to hear that your move was a success and that you are enjoying living in each moment! I so enjoy reading your posts and look forward to the things you share about your old home. I live in a 175 year old home and can relate to leaning walls and wondering what secrets they hold. I can also relate to your feelings on the election. The wind was knocked out of me. Anyway, so hoping to see updates on your beautiful home and would love to see you on Instagram! It's a fun place to share and not nearly as involved as blogging. ~Colleen

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  48. hi catherine. just yesterday i was thinking about you as m and i strolled through a local antique store. i kept saying oh this is so country farmhouse! we both love your style soooo much. i bet your new home is drop dead gorgeous even tho it isn't finished. your style is impeccable. i share you grief over the election too. take care and so good to hear from you. xoxo

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  49. Beautiful post! I have missed your posts these last months and checked back every now and then. But I do understand that becoming disconnected for even a time can be so good for the soul, as we have become so "tied" to our devices and a constant stream of information. I do love reading what you have to say and if you continue to post here I will be here, or if you go to instagram, Ill see you there! Your posts are always so lovely and such a break of what I usually see online. It has been a source of information and respite for me these past years. Thank you!

    Katie

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  50. Oh Catherine, it is sooo wonderful to hear from you! Mainly I'm happy to know you're all healthy and have survived the trauma of moving in to that huge house, getting comfortable, and holding things together. You have been sooo generous to us, for sooo long, you've kept your archives for both projects available to us all this time while your duties as wife and mother and magazine editor and community activist have done nothing but compound and multiply. There's no way I could ask you to keep blogging, or even transfer to Instagram, not with all you've got on your plate. It wouldn't surprise me one bit if magazines aren't knocking on your door: "Are you ready for us to come in and photograph yet?"

    These are hard times for people who approach life with generosity, spirit-first. Conserve your energy, take extra care with yourself and your spirit. We will always be here, cheering you on!

    -Flo
    Amelia Island FL



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  51. So glad all is well! Your new home sounds lovely and I look forward to possibly seeing you over on Instagram (if you feel inclined, please post here if you do decide to transition over, please!)

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  52. Oh my goodness! I've been checking your page every week since last August - I gasped when the page loaded and it was a new post. Gah! ☺ I've been following your adventure for years and genuinely missed reading your posts. This made my day!

    (Also, I would just like to add that I've felt the same way since the election.) ��

    Thank you for always sharing your story so beautifully and honestly. Can't wait to see the progress!

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  53. I went to your blog by chance just now, wanting to see if maybe ... as I have done numerous times over the past several months. So happy to see you've posted! No worries about your long absence. Moving and still needing to work on a house is no small feet. The November election took the wind of hope out for a lot of us. Courage as my French friends keep saying. Instagram would be a great alternative for you, sign up and you’ll be able to post updates much more easily. Looking forward to seeing you on Instagram : ) or here. Take care. Mira in Vermont

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  54. Yours is one of my favorite blogs. I hope you are able to continue it. I don't have Instagram and will greatly miss it. I look forward to even occasional posts.

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  55. I could not believe my eyes. What. a post from Catherine? So happy you are checking in with your followers and everything is on track. Please share a post occasionally so we know how you and the family are getting along with life.

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  56. My heart stopped when I clicked on your bookmarked blog as I do nearly every day. Then it stopped again as you shared your heart, that mirrors mine. I escape in blogland, and yet part of me, most of me has yearned for someone to speak. Thank you for speaking these things that must be spoken.
    I do hope to see you on some platform, or even hear more of your heart actions.
    Enjoy the pitter pat and dappled walls and love of family.

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  57. I checked in today just on the off-chance you might have posted something, and you have! A beautiful post it is too.

    Instagram would be a good addition to your blog, but I would be very sad if you stopped blogging. Your writing is wonderful and needs the space of a blog. Social media is for sound bites, you are a gifted writer - please don't stop!

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  58. Your blog has always provided both inspiration and encouragement in creating a comfortable home that reflects our own individual personalities, with a respect for the past and a look to the future. What I loved most about your recent blog is that I felt such a kinship in your sentiments in the yet unfinished and ever evolving nature of our homes. Thank you for continuing to connect with us, in whatever way works best for you. In these unsettling times we need connection more than ever.

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  59. We loved into a 1700's farmhouse at the end of October and our story is similar. Things have taken so much longer than I expected. Hiccups and setbacks along the way as we moved towards a cozy beautiful home. It's a relief to know others go through this as well! Thanks for sharing!

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  60. Happy to hear you're in your house and settling in and making it your home. Many of us were knocked sideways by the election and I find myself consuming more news, as I did during the political season, which isn't particularly healthy. It's like watching a train wreck and I can't turn away.

    Yes to Instagram! I spend much more time there than in blogland now. And if you do want to post on your blog, you can give a headsup on Instagram and your followers will know. You can post more often on Instagram and still have chatty captions and leave the longer posts for your blog if you need to. You will be able to keep touch with your base of followers. I love Instagram! If you do decide to post there, let us know how to find you!
    Carolyn, @hillonthehouse

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  61. So comforting to know you are well.
    I so enjoy your writing,
    Moving is a huge job, and home building even bigger. But you've got a good head on your shoulders and enjoy the important things - your family, taking care of your health, nature,
    thinking time.
    Your country's elections reverberated round the world, along with your disbelief. Yesterday's events have us all holding our breaths.
    Best wisshes for your continued journey Catherine.

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  62. So glad to hear that you are OK. Please don't abandon your blog, we readers have come this far with you and would very much like to see your progress. Peace.

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  63. I loved your photo of the mirror, Catherine. I just noticed your reflection in it. Beautiful!

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  64. The great thing about this country is that we are able to express our beliefs. Thank you to all arm forces past, present, and future. I do love your blog. Reading blogs is my respite from the news and politics (which I enjoy).

    It is your blog to do as you wish. I will only say I hope the blog remains politic free.

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  66. I am so thrilled to see you back! I mostly think of your blog in terms of photos, but after perusing some of your previous posts, was reminded of how much I enjoy your writing as well. Have you ever read "The Country of the Pointed Firs" by Sarah Orne Jewett? Your description of life in your new home brought back memories of this lovely book which I read long ago. (I had to do a quick google search to recall the author.) So for this reason, I hope you continue to blog. And I agree with you on the elections; it's been a tough year and we can only hope for a kinder, more peaceful world.

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  67. I feel like I just bumped into an old friend. So happy to see your post and looking forward to updates in whatever form you choose. The current state of our country is heart wrenching and boggles the mind -- sometimes I have to pinch myself that what I see on the news is not an awful distorted parody.

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  68. So happy to see your post today!! Have checked your site every day since your last post of 2016. I love your blog, but I'll follow you on Instagram if that is what you decide to do. I totally agree with your comments re pres election, and am very concerned, as you obviously are, re the kind of world we are going to leave our children, and even if all of us will survive this presidency. Am looking forward to hearing from you again, and seeing pics at some point of your new home.

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  69. Welcome back, dear Catarina (your portuguese name)!
    A kiss from Portugal,
    Ana Bela

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  70. I was thrilled to see your post, and I love Instagram if you decide it might be an easier way to share your journey. We need photos! Your story is wonderful and the photos are inspirational. We all love a work in progress! - Diane

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  71. So lovely to see your post, I have missed the updates on your beautiful home renovation and have checked in often. Please continue to blog, it is a source of inspiration in my own endeavours to make my house a home x

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  72. Dear Catherine, I think a few months off is quite okay for moving house. We just moved from one side of the world to the other and I ended up taking two years off! I do like this blog of yours. With kind regards, Kirk.

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  73. It was delightful to see your post! Have missed your lovely renovation story. My vote is that you please keep blogging, as instagram is like a text, in contrast to blogging, which allows for story.
    Glad you are enjoying your home!

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  74. If you decide to go instagram, please let us know what name you are posting under. So thrilled to see your new post!

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  75. Good to hear that you, like many of us are regrouping and taking on some "projects" too. The house will evolve over time, everything does not have to be done at once, nice though it may be. Breathe deep and enjoy your family,time is fleeting and you have memories to create. Peace and blessings whatever comes your way and thank you for sharing your wonderful home with us.All the best to you and Mike and the wee ones! Bramble

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  76. Please keep blogging. (You can Instagram too if it appeals to you.) You needn't post here a lot. But I, for one, missed images of your new house, hearing about your plans and your keen eye for making things prettier, safer, sturdier, more homey. Looking forward to photos of your life in the new house.

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  77. Welcome back! I'm glad I wasn't the only one waiting and wondering if you would post again. I hope we will keep seeing you here, you are an inspiration and a respite for so many of us, but you are in the middle of the busiest time of life, with the kiddos, and work, and a new/old home....do what works for you and yours. The election was a real punch in the gut, I was working at the polls, and almost passed out when I realized what was happening. I believe we need a loyal opposition, but what is happening now (the result of years of dysfunction), is so very disturbing. It has woken us up though, and that can't be a bad thing.

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  78. I just had to ask: I have the pages of the Country Living story on your home in my notebook that I use to keep things that I want to remember (I always joke that I've been "Pinteresting" in paper form long before computers were an everyday thing), and it lists your name as Trina Burke. If this isn't you, I'm certainly happy I stumbled upon you looking! I just love your blog. I also kept the piece because the photo of your utensil drawer made me go out and buy dividers and re-organize my kitchen! You bring so much joy to people every day!

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  79. Hi Trina, nice to "hear" that you are moved into your home. I can honestly say we've been renovating since we were married 24 years ago next week! LOL!!! We are slowly rebuilding our MA home and our ME cottage, as you know it is very expensive. We are fortunate that our Maine neighbor is a talented builder and does not charge us very much at all. Prior to him our last contractor was in his 80's and had finally decided to retire - at age 84!
    Like you, to say that I was stunned over the election would be an understatement.
    Looking forward to seeing you on Instagram.

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  80. Thank goodness, Catherine, you are back! I was worried it was something really difficult that kept you away. If you could have let us readers know, we could have taken up a collection for a new computer. I have been looking at the old blog for pictures of your perfect kitchen as I am approaching a re-do and that was one I always liked. Glad to know I'll be able to see your new kitchen too.

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  81. I agree with Vanessa. I need to see you pictures more than ever to have a few minutes escape from these Trumpian times!!

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  82. I must have last checked your blog right before you posted this...SO relieved to read this! ❤️
    (and I understand and sympathize with your summery of the election season. Still shocked and mourning...

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  83. Just discovered you through the Maura Endres Instagram account and I already love everything I see, particularly this comment about the state of the country.
    I still fervently believe that there are still more people who care about this country and our democratic principles than there are of those who just want to see disruption.
    And today I found one more.
    Just wanted to let you know that many share your concerns.

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Thank you for leaving your thoughts. Kind regards, Catherine

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