My last newsletter focused on creating a synchronistic lifestyle where everything seems to magically drop into place at just the right moment and how if your life involves doing what you love, then all those magical opportunities will naturally appear. Well I've had so many synchronicities since then, that my life could hardly be more exciting and full--hence my lateness with this newsletter.

Working with color is certainly something I love. I also love working with luxurious fabrics and what the design trade calls "soft furnishings", or curtains, upholstery and bedding. Since our home is like our second skin, the fabrics and furnishings we choose are important. There's no greater feeling than sinking into a plush down sofa or resting in a comfy bed with lots of pillows.

Surrounding yourself with fabrics you love creates a nourishing cocoon. Fabrics are meant to be comfortable and inviting. They give visual life and depth to an environment. Aside from the color of your walls, fabrics are the most dramatic influence in creating a room's overall ambiance. Fabrics should be soft, warm and colorful and always be of fine quality. Quality fabrics last longer and wear better, which is why vintage fabrics are so appealing.

While I tend to keep most furnishings simple, I love to use a variety of textures and patterns when it comes to upholstery and bedding. I have enjoyed designing slipcovers and upholstery using a mix of coordinating fabrics for individual clients. I call them "couture sofas" as each one is different and reflects the style and personality of the client. You can view several of these couture sofas on my website under furnishings.

Earlier this Spring, I designed and created my own line of upholstery and slipcovers. All of our heirloom quality frames have individual eight-way hand-tied coil spring seating and we offer a choice of six different cushion fillings, including several down & feather combinations. We have over six hundred fabrics to select from, such as vintage linen prints which are ideal for summer slipcovers.

We now offer the Bella Notte line of bed linens. Bella Notte uses washed silk, linen, velvet, chenille and 280-thread count cotton to make their luxurious duvet covers, dust ruffles, throws, pillow shams, sheets and loungewear. Colors are inspired by the subtle and dramatic shades of earth and sky which coordinate naturally with vintage inspired prints. Every order is custom dyed to acquire unique textures and tones. Care is as simple as tossing them into your washer and dryer, and they become even softer and more supple with each washing. These linens look great on any style bed, but they are especially suited to antique beds that have a vintage look.

In response to the generous and favorable interest in past newsletters, I am working on a book containing highlights of my past newsletters. Happily, my New York editor has moved to St. Francisville where his company has established an office. Another bit of serendipity!

I hope this newsletter finds you feeling the rejuvenating effects of Spring and looking forward to a wonderful Summer. Have you been following your bliss?