Antique Sale! Day 6: A Little Inspiration Goes a Long Way


Good morning from Paris!

Today’s the last day of my antiques sale. I have been working on my “smalls” shop and will debut that soon. I can’t even tell you how much I love accessories so it has been a blast curating a petite selection for all of you.

Before I show you the last of my “bigs” selection, I thought we would talk about something… Let’s talk about a little something called inspiration. I received a really boring (and ignorant) email from a woman named Rachel Cummings last week who said the following…

“Hi. 
After reading your blog for a few months and following the antiques sale this week, I would just like to state the following.
Clearly these are nice pieces and one can understand your marketing strategy that includes their history and your relationship with the piece.
However......it is a bit disturbing to have you explain every detail of why the piece should be appreciated and how one might be educated, through your eye, as to how it can be incorporated in to a room.
You are not one of a select group that has ever purchased great pieces or has a creative nature. 
Granted, there are plenty of clueless people that would have no idea why a one armed urn is special and desireable.  But there are plenty of individuals who do "get it", and not because you told them so.  These people will probably be among those that make you an offer for the pieces.
You are not the first or the last to have an eye for design and detail.
Give your readers a little credit.  
Rachel C.”


As you all know, I am not one to back down from a disagreement and I highly disagree with Rachel. Even though I have been in the design field for my entire life, I never ever feel like I don’t need more inspiration. I draw inspiration from everywhere… Museums, travel, shelter magazines, Pinterest, blogs, antique shops, retail shops, flea markets, exhibits, books, films, nature… The list goes on and on. I even have an inspiration board plastered to my closet door that I stare at every day (I am manifesting Provence). First of all let me state that I hate Rachel because she’s a moron (and rude). Secondly, even if people do “get it” as she says, there is always room for inspiration. Architectural Digest, World of Interiors, Elle Decor, the fucking Louvre and every Gagosian gallery would be out of business if people did not seek inspiration. I would be lost without my interior design coffee table books. Lost! Both professionals and nonprofessionals seek inspiration… It’s what makes the world go around, for God sakes. I told Rachel that it was not a “marketing strategy” to include the history and relationship of the piece… quite the contrary… It’s called basic human interaction. I would never, as Rachel stated, consider any of my blog readers “clueless.” Don’t worry, I defended all of us and wrote Rachel a super rude reply letter. You’re welcome. Hopefully the Pinterest Police will revoke Rachel’s membership because obviously she doesn’t need inspiration except maybe in the manners department.

Okay so, moving on… The last two pieces for my antiques sale are chandeliers. Let’s take a look at the first…

French Chandelier with Crystals
French bronze chandelier made in France 1930s with crystals. Eight lights.



 
Price: $550

Place of Origin: France

Materials: bronze, crystals

Period: 1930s

Condition: Current Wiring. Good to fair. Sold as is.

Number of Items: 1

Location of Item: Los Angeles, California USA

 
And the second…

Portuguese Monastery Chandelier
Unusual and rare iron monastery chandelier






 
Price: $595

Place of Origin: Portugal

Materials: bronze iron

Period: 20th century, possibly earlier

Condition: Fair, not wired yet. Could be wired or used with a candle.

Wear: Wear consistent with age and use. Showing some signs of rust. Beautiful golden patina.

Height of base: 1’ 10 7/8 inches

Width: 1’ 2 5/8 inch

extra extra long chain

Number of Items: 1

Location of Item: Los Angeles, California USA

So, these two chandeliers are the last items for the sale. If you have any questions, just email me at havesomedecorum@gmail.com. If you would like to purchase either of these chandeliers, just email me at the same email address, havesomedecorum@gmail.com, and put the title of the piece in the subject line. This is a first come first serve basis and I promise I will not play favorites (unless it’s Princess Caroline of Monaco… Obviously). You can pay with either PayPal or Wells Fargo Bank deposit. You can pick it up or arrange transport for it. If you need to ship it long-distance, I use a company called Vintage Transport.

Voilà! That’s the end of the antiques sale for the big items. There are a few pieces left so email me if there is something that you are still interested in.

And just to bug Rachel, I thought I would give you all a list of my favorite Pinterest people that I follow whom I think have a great eye for design and would never ever think that they don’t need more inspiration.

Lauren Santo Domingo

Quintessence

Pam O’Connell (no relation)

Brooke Giannetti

Carolina Irving

FIG and Salt

Kelly Rutherford

Penelope Bianchi

...these and 291 others that you can find through my Pinterest board… HERE.

Stay tuned for my smalls shop...

61 comments:

  1. OMG Rachel, you are so, so small. I can not believe that anyone could read this blog and not be moved, not be inspired, not laugh, not think "wow Ellie is FAB with FAB taste" but instead be moved to write a whiny little email which exposes you for the very little mean person you are. How dare you? I hope you learn some manners and also maybe get help (or get something else which you clearly need but which I won't state here) for your issues.
    I wish I could buy some of your things, I love the Syrian chair and the urn (and, um, everything else) but though I have fab taste I have three kids and no cash but I'm sure some of your other readers will scoop them up. You know why? Because as a group, we "get it". Don't you worry about us Rachel. Start your own blog and see how far you get since you are clearly so above being inspired or learning any damn thing.
    Ellie, looking forward to your smalls shop.

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  2. I love you. That is all!

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  3. Ellie, thank you for the way you write your blog with all the inspiration and details. Rachel in my opinion is TOTALLY rude and presumptuous. I love that you give the history and details of each piece so we as buyers can asses whether or not we'd like to invest in your items. If Rachel doesn't like it then she can unsubscribe from your blog and find herself blogs where they meet her egocentric expectations. I love your blog and wouldn't have you change a thing about it. Bring on the inspiration....love how you do it with grace and kindness. Beauty inside and out.

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  4. With regards to social media (and under a lot of other circumstances too) I live by the rule: ' If you cannot say something nice, just say nothing at all.'...... You should try it, Rachel.

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  5. Woman you run with the wolves and I love that in you. You never fail to teach, inspire andmove me. You my friend are the gift!

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  6. I am often flabbergasted by the rudeness of some people, and aghast that they would take time out of their day specifically to try to make someone feel bad. I have appreciated your blog more than most others I have read: I laugh, I think, and I learn something. Please don't allow small people to stomp on your expansive spirit.

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  7. Even for people who "get it", there's always something new to learn or a new perspective to see. What I love most about antiques dealers is the passion they talk about their items with and how much they appreciate to learn the history behind each item. Like you do.

    Please tell us more about what you are selling, that's half the fun!

    /Bea

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  8. Haha so happy you gave Rachel her come uppence..inspiration is everywhere, everyday..she must be a pretty boring person..love the chandeliers! Thank you for your inspiration, keep it coming..xoxo J

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  9. Do you remember when Lauren Santo Domingo's wedding was in Vogue? Still gives me the vapors. I'm waiting in the dentist's office next to a very motley husband and wife who are playing candy crush with full volume and arguing with their son on another phone about "HOW DID YOUR CREDIT TAKE SUCH A HIT IN ONE YEAR? WHAT DID YOU DO?" Looks to her husband: "WHAT DID HE DO?" So I was very glad to see your post.
    So I am an authority on arrogance, and I haven't found your antique sale posts to be the least bit arrogant. I often feel like you're totally out of my league in experience and knowledge of design. But your willingness to open your life and history for no other reason than to share is absolutely welcoming; not imposing or exclusionary. big fish accustomed to small ponds sometimes become unreasonably defensive when the pond gets bigger.
    Okay the guy's elbow is now touching my polo shirt so I'm about to get west side. Wish me luck.

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    1. Stephen: Your post gave me the giggles.. especially the last comment. I have never understood the need to rub elbows in waiting/reception rooms.

      Bonnie

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  10. The most interesting part of life are the stories we create and those of other people. Storytelling goes back to the beginning on mankind. We should all seek the stories of others, even if it is about a pretty chair. Perhaps Rachel is an Instagram and Twitter baby. Cute photo, a few few words and instant gratification. With of course, the requisite comments oohing and ahhing and fawning. Dear Ellie,keep your stories coming.

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  11. I hate Rachel, too! I hate rude people.

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  12. Rachel, it's really quite simple: if you don't want Ellie's excellent taste, opinions, and stories then don't read her blog. Those of us who love Ellie can't get enough! I'm sorry you don't understand the concept of inspiration. Everyone from Michelangelo to Rene Redzepi to the farmer at your local market has been inspired to create. Inspired by someone or something. Go have a great meal, visit a museum, go shopping or take a walk--much of what you see is either the result of inspiration or provides inspiration to someone else. Open your eyes, open your mind. Ellie is a treasure. She can tell me what to look at any time, all the time!

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  13. Where do people find the energy to write an email like that? Seriously, I can think of a MILLION things much more invigorating that writing a nasty email to someone about their blog. If it bothers you so much, then just don't come here! SAD Rachel Cummings. RC needs some inspiration for all this free time she has on her hands!!!!!

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  14. Okay on another note, Ellie do you think all the good antiques have all been snapped up and are now so pricey that we plebes can only collect junk like Industrial?

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    1. I think antiques are cyclical. They come and they go and then they come back. There are also fads with antiques… one year it can be all about neoclassical and everyone snaps that up and then the next year it's all about swedish… And out with the neoclassical. Antiques are on a rotation. There's always the same amount of antiques it's just who has it and who's ready to get rid of it. :-)

      Delete
    2. I love this! So it is like buying winter things that are on sale in the summertime...well, to really simplify but I get it! :)

      And I definitely see that here in Provence - all of those heavily white-washed pieces that were all the rage a few years back can now be had for much less!

      Delete
  15. I'm in love with the chandeliers, so fabulous! The one from the monastery is truly spectacular and unusual!
    WTF is up with that Rachel, what a rude letter, I can't believe it! Seriously I had to read it three times because it's so horrible and also I don't get her at all, what is she even talking about.
    Thank you very much for writing her back to set her straight and I'm sorry you had to deal with such a boring ridiculous email!
    xox!

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  16. Poor Rachel- spending lots of time and energy to convince herself and everyone else that she "gets it". Must be exhausting.
    I love the info, the inspiration, the details. How many times have we looked at Pinterest, magazines, museums and then, all of a sudden, something jolts us to action. We all need to continually be inspired, except, apparently, Rachel. She's all set.
    Rachel- there are a bazillion blogs out there. If one doesn't do it for you, just move on, but don't be rude. It's that simple.

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  17. I love these chandeliers. So pretty.

    Like Dani BP I had to go back and read that email twice to try and figure out what she was saying. Why would someone bother? And why would anyone want to wound your feelings? Ridiculous.

    I collect antiques and can I just say that I have really enjoyed your sale. I didn't feel patronised at all. I thought your blog posts were cosy, like you were chatting to friends.

    Best wishes, xx

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  18. I have appreciated the history and the presentation of each piece. Thank you. Ignore the other person

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  19. It never ceases to amaze me that people would actually bother to write something so ridiculous, bitter and nasty. I loved your descriptions - to me it was the sort of conversation you'd have if you walk into an antique shop and engage with the owner about the provenance of a piece, and how you might use it. I'm not sure why this woman thinks that inspiration is something that you fill up a glass with, and once it's full that's it and there's no room for any more? So odd.

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  20. I'd have been the one who visited your store to look at beautiful things and hear your stories about them, and maybe get some *inspiration* about how to use my family antiques, (even though I have excellent taste ;-) Just not a lot of money to spend.
    And you would have treated me as well as the gazillionnaire who came in next, because I love beautiful things and you are someone who *gets it.* That is the real "select group." Thank you for letting me in.

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  21. Rachel has lots of class all of it low

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  22. Rachel is a snot.....you were nicer than was justified. What an ass.....

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  23. Rachel is a rude mean spirited woman.
    I hate Rachel too.

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  24. Rachel is clueless. Loved your sale! And YOU INSPIRE ME EVERY DAY. xoxox Mary

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  25. Rachel is an incredibly rude mean spirited woman!

    I hate Rachel too.

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  26. Arrrghssiiiiiiiiiiiiiii...(that is the sound of me struggling with my longing after that Monastery chandelier which is just INSANELY BEAUTIFUL). Both are fabulously priced - if they aren't sold within the day then Bob's Your Uncle! (Ps. If anyone would like to step in and explain that phrase to me I would be most willing, merci)

    Eh oui, Rachel, Rachel poor Rachel. To be unkind to you of all people goes beyond sad but teeters into the territory of "a wee bit cuckoo". And you didn't even post what she called the email, my "favorite" part...???

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  27. I find this very disturbing because my name is similar to the letter writer and reading the post and the comments has made me feel very guilty although I share none of her opinions. Please, to prevent me having a fit of the vapours, can we simply refer to the bad one as Bitchface?

    I adore the chandeliers and the other auction items and cannot understand why anyone would object to Ellie describing their history and explaining why she loves them. Bizarre behaviour.

    The view of the little room in the first picture is beautiful.

    Rachel C BUT NOT THAT ONE.

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  28. Love the chandeliers. I especially love the french bronze. I very much appreciate the explanation that goes along with the items that you're selling... I'm a tad clueless about these things :) As for Rach.. her letter has nothing to do with your blog posts and everything to do with her inner turmoil. #saveRachfromherownmisery

    Bonnie

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  29. Ellie, I find it perplexing that someone would take the time to write you such a critical email. What was her point? To save us all from inspiration or learning something new if you continued posting your antiques descriptions and suggestions for use?

    If she found herself in a shop where the proprietor was explaining the history, material or style of a piece to someone who was looking at it, would she rush over and chastise the the proprietor for doing so as soon as the customer left? Would she consider suggestions on how to use the item in a modern day setting presumptuous or condescending?
    I've already gone back and re-read what she wrote twice now, and the Nancy Drew in me still has more questions, but I'm going to be late for a client meeting.
    I'm so glad you've got your mojo back, can't wait to see your next post! xoxo

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  30. Such a gorgeous room w/the crystal chandelier...I LOVE your decorating! I'm always so happy when you've written a post-they are always interesting, funny, and beautiful. We'll never change the ignorant, Ellie...best to ignore 😏

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  31. Here is one thing I learned a long time ago through a very difficult experience - mean people don't change - poor Rachel. Glad you gave her her comeuppance.

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  32. Love the chandeliers.....I gotta manifest getting to France/ Provence! No New News there, ha ha ha.

    ROFL, the Lion Roar's! I would Roar too! :-)))
    Wow, I have to agree, how rediculous, why I am constantly learning by being inspired, sometimes
    just to get my head off my pillow on those weird days!!! Inspired by music, art, nature, design, my endless blogs of same, etc. etc, loving kind souls, endless forms of inspiration to get me out of a rut. Heck, who knows everything about everything, why I will be learning and love learning "forever". I need inspiration out here, we have enough negative surrounding us from every angle in our super noisy world today! YOU Ellie inspire me to keep going alone out here with no support and clear my tears on those days! Your inspiration keeps me going!
    XOXO

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  33. Ellie these chandeliers and especially the second truly resonate with me!!
    Sad Rachel to lash out at you ( and probably others) Some people are so unhappy I guess they cannot spread any love and kindness to others. Thank you for your bravery and inspiration always!

    xoxo
    Karena
    The Arts by Karena
    Twombly: Late Paintings

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  34. Rude, rude,Rachel is fucking rude!

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  35. Most of what you're writing about, Ellie, with your descriptions is the provenance of the item. And that is so important to a buyer (past the appeal of the item)

    . I used to own a contemporary craft gallery - all items hand-made by British and New England makers - and I always had a sheet with every item to give to the buyer with the maker's name, place, history, and any other info I had. Buyers LOVED those sheets and felt a connection with the makers of "their" item.

    You're doing the same with the antiques you're showing, which I find quite interesting and informative.

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    Replies
    1. I would be that buyer; I love knowing the history of an item as well as anything about the artist.

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  36. I can't imagine why you WOULDN'T write your descriptions, history, decorating ideas, etc. I loved that part of these sales as much as the photos. Imagine just the photos with nothing but a price?

    I'm not sure why she wrote what she wrote to you, but she should write her own blog as she wishes or just stop reading what she doesn't like and go for a walk in the woods to inhale some air instead, for crying out loud. My gosh, those chandeliers are gorgeous -- the first one is a beauty, so elegant.

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  37. Shame on Rachel Cummings; no doubt her mother is disappointed by her mean-spirited, dis-respectful, condescending behavior. Rach clearly has no understanding of good manners, grace or compassion. If you don't have something nice to say, don't open your mouth. Kudos to Ellie for publicly calling out her bad behavior.

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  38. "A BIT DISTURBING!"..............REALLY.
    I think you need to go back..........WAY BACK and start from the beginning of this INCREDIBLE BLOG.YOU stated YOU have only been following for THREE MONTHS.............thats the key right there.YOU do not have enough INFORMATION about this woman you wrote too!IT's all in her writing and the DETAIL.GO READ her BLOG..............in it's entirety.Then YOU come back here if you have the NERVE and tell all of US and believe you ME there is A LOT OF US how you made a mistake!!!!!!
    GO NOW..........GO READ!!!!

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    Replies
    1. She doesn't deserve to read Ellie's blog, she is too stupid, narrow minded and ugly, ugly inside!

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  39. So I actually went back to read all your "antiques sale" posts to see what Rachel was talking about. I got nuthin. ;)

    What is she talking about?

    There are plenty of people with money who don't have a clue about decor or antiques, but would like to learn. And those who have more knowledge still don't know everything. Even a dealer is constantly learning.

    I only comment once in a while, but your blog has helped me to solidify some of my opinions about decor. I have a good eye and read a lot of design magazines and blogs, but I have not had the chance to travel as much as you have. For now, you are my eyes and ears in France!

    Thank you for helping me to pinpoint something that has been nagging at me - mainly that many houses are decorated solely with mass-produced items all made at the same time. Don't get me wrong. There are many beautiful things being made today at every price point, but without some vintage or antique items thrown into the mix, the result is bland.

    This realization has been dawning on me for a long time, but your blog has solidified it.

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  40. Any truly creative person, if one is honest, will admit that his/her creativity is not solely genetic. It evolves through inspiration from a myriad of sources. And for those who don't consider themselves creative, but would like to learn, rely on the "eye" of others to help them envision what they cannot. I can't fathom what offended Rachel, except for the fact she may just be a small minded, defensive, paranoid individual, who sees an affront even if one doesn't exist. Enough of her..........more of you, wonderful Ellie!

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    Replies
    1. You nailed it, Cleo. Rachel's message is "defensive". Rachel sees Ellie's antique descriptions as some negative assessment of her own knowledge instead of a service provided for all the readers.

      It reminds me of a friend who visited a gorgeous waterfall (that you can walk under) with us in Highlands, NC. His girlfriend was super enthusiastic when she first saw the waterfall, while he took her enthusiasm as an affront growling "I know! I've seen majestic things in nature before!"

      His girlfriend had traveled extensively, but she still got excited at beauty. He worried that we'd think he'd never been anywhere if he showed excitement. What a tool.

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  41. Ellie - you go girl !
    xo Marianne (one of your pinterest followers and followee).

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  42. Who wouldn't want ideas about how to integrate antiques into decor? I love your blog and have learned a lot. Only jealous or unhappy people would send an email like that.

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  43. Ellie,

    Bravo for calling out people on their poor manners and crass behavior - has she ever heard of grace? You are such a treasure! I posted a comment a week or so ago but I am not sure it posted as I did it on my phone. Have you heard of Alex Hitz and his cookbook My Beverly Hills Kitchen? I think you would love it and him! Althougth, I think there is a good chance you know him already :) I would send the book to you if I had your address ;)

    All the best,

    Charlotte

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  44. There's a million things I love about you Ellie but one of them is the fact that, unlike many people in the blogosphere, you do tell us a story. I love how at the end of most of your posts you tell us a little something about you. To me, that's what friendship and interaction is all about. I stop reading blogs that don't include it, boring boring.
    I would be lost if I was antiques shopping and someone didn't give me a bit of background on the piece. This is YOUR blog, so one would be foolish to expect that you wouldn't put your own thoughts or spin on things.
    I have been writing comments on many posts and they don't seem to publish, I hope this one does anyway otherwise I will be writing a strongly worded email to blogger.com
    xoxoxoxoxo

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  45. How pathetic. What a miserable person she must be. Go forth and carry on!

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  46. Ellie, Rachel doesn't get it! What an appallingly rude person, and an ignorant person.

    Your blog is always great, I would hate to see anything change.

    Best wishes
    Ann

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  47. Without giving Rachel more oxygen than she deserves, I’ll just say it’s her words, not your blog, that are patronizing.

    Looking forward to your “smalls shop” Ellie XOX

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    Replies
    1. Perhaps Rachel should look up the meaning "decorum"...and comit it to memory! Isla

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    2. Make that "commit"...sorry fingers too fast.
      Isla

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  48. Rachel clearly is rude as well as uninformed, but I regret you had to expend any of your precious energy on her. Your items are beautiful and I most enjoy the details you provide about them. I cannot wait to see the smalls you have collected and will offer for sale to your very appreciative readers.

    Have a wonder-filled day. XOXO, Victoria

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  49. The only thing that I can comment about Rachel, is that I pity her. So many people in this world are not connected - to their soul - their heart or the hearts and souls of others. That is a lonely and inevitably painful way to live. Even if they don't know they are living so.

    I am one of the many people here who support and adore you, Ellie. I am inspired by every post, every bit of information you so generously share about decorating, about your love of it and about the way it can enhance ones life and self knowledge.

    But most of all I am inspired by the things you share about the secrets of real life, of real pain and real joy. I study it and I take it all to heart, all.

    Thank You

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  50. I am up to late and will be so in trouble with Italian husband. I read only that woman's comment, Good thing her name is not on your blog. Murder. Yesl And I would spend the rest of my life in jail. I would miss my grandchildren.....she needs to die.

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  51. I can't feel sorry for anyone who is as big of a jerk as that ridiculous ignoramus.
    All these loving comments prove the support and love we all feel for you! Not to mention the respect and admiration for your talent and your taste!

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  52. My Dear Ellie! I've tried to comment here a few times and I so glad I figured it out today! I wish I could meet that rachael, yes, with lower case, it's intentional. What an ignorant, envious and dark person.... I feel sick.
    You are the best! such an inspiration, talented, funny as hell, beautiful, honest, wonderful person! and one who knows how to laugh at one's self!
    You are one of my favorite people ( not in a creepy way rachael! ) We've never met Ellie, but even though I would love to, that's ok, it's not necessary, we are connected, I LIKE you and respect you. We are more than this peel that covers us, that can wrinkle and even stop functioning, but us inside of that shell is what matters and you my friend are magnificent, glorious and not sick. Somebody else is sick and is not you for sure. It must be so hard to live in the dark and be so ignorant. Love you Ellie! Keep the beauty, knowledge, great taste and bright spirit shining on us!

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