Welp, it’s April 23 and we’re just now getting to March’s books of the week. That’s just how things have been going lately. I have definitely put too much self-imposed pressure on myself in a variety of areas and it’s starting to compound. I know other over-achievers will sympathize. You know you’re doing fine, but every little thing that slips through the cracks or gets done a little later than desired starts makes you feel like you’re not doing enough. It’s completely unfair to ourselves and completely ignores the numerous things you’re doing right and well, but it’s a cycle that’s hard to break nonetheless. Especially when busyness is a kind of sanctuary during stressful times.
So, I’m typing it out in the hopes that acknowledgment works as a kind of antidote. And I’m sharing it in the hopes that others who are feeling the same way will find safety in my vulnerability.
Now that I got that out of the way, let’s talk about beautiful books that I shared in March!
The Life of a Bowerbird | Sibella Court
This is a book that appeals to the collector in me and my love of display. It’s not a practical book, but it is a beautiful and inspiring one.
I ordered mine used and it came with evidence of its past life as a library book. I love that it still wears the checkout card that was last stamped in 2014…
The book itself features various collections from pieces gathered in nature to scientific oddities to objects that were household staples in another decade or century. They are all textural and high impact when gathered together. Who knew shaving brushes could look so yummy??
I also like the book from the aspect of photography and styling inspiration.
New Americana is a beautiful decorating book featuring antiques in a more modern presentation. Maybe modern isn’t the right word…clean and updated, perhaps? It’s not 1990’s Americana.
Holly of Old Glory Antiques put together a beautiful collection of homes that would appeal to a variety of decorating tastes. And the photography and styling are lovely. It’s a great book to just browse.
Even though we’re heading into spring, I picked this book for its warm and homey projects to do when you’re stuck at home. That seemed fitting, right? I like that this book offers a wide variety of projects from recipes to crochet to ideas for foraging from the sleeping landscape. It’s a charming book that will give you some ideas and inspiration if nothing else.
Painting Clouds and Skies in Oils | Mo Teeuw
I picked this book for those who are painting along with me (or interested in oil painting.) I was so excited when this book came out last year. I had been hunting for a book focused on painting clouds in oils and this one was exactly what I was looking for. I love Mo’s style and I’ve learned so much from doing some studies from this book. I can’t wait to do more! And Mo is lovely. I connected with her on Instagram and “meeting” her made me love the book even more. She is a great teacher and encourager.
You can find Mo on Instagram HERE.
You can find past Books of the Week here…
Making a Life | Martha Stewart’s Organizing | Essentialism | Slipcover Style | Daily Painting
City Farmhouse Style | A Place for Everything | Color: A Visual History | Conscious Creativity
9 Responses
Your pics are so lovely! Everyday I feel less and less guilty about going slower and being less productive. Thanks for sharing.
It is great to see that you enjoyed Australian Sibilla Court and her “Bower”. If only she opened her home and storage to visitors!
I just bought the Bower Bird book for my daughter-in-law. She has a wonderful eye for nature.
New Americana caught my eye as Holly Kuhn was featured in the latest issue of Country Home magazine. Lots of antiques and worn wood against a white backdrop. And beautiful photography to boot. The Life of a Bowerbird looks interesting as well. Thanks for the great recommendations Marian!
I immediately thought the Bower Bird book was just the kind of thing for me–but the price made me catch my breath. Wowzer. I’ve NEVER paid that much for a book. Am I a philistine???? But some lovely books nonetheless.
It’s because the book is no longer in print and the less expensive copies have been bought up already. If you’re interested, just put it on your wishlist and a less expensive copy will show up! I paid less than $20 for my copy.
Thanks to your suggestion, I bought the Bowerbird Book for my birthday. Patiently waiting for a delivery!
I am wondering where you purchase your yarn. I am looking for cotton yarn but since we can’t get out I’m not sure where to find it. I have been looking at your pot holders. Can you post a link or something?
Thank you!
I ordered New Americana as soon as I saw Holly’s name on it. Old Glory is one of my favorite shops to visit whenever we are in Denver. I wasn’t disappointed! It’s my favorite book at the moment. I recently purchased The Stuff of Life by Hillary Robertson and enjoyed the photography. But New Americana is the bomb diggity of books right now!