Terreeia is in Italy.
It was a last minute decision for her to go (well we decided 6 weeks ago), she has friends who live there some months of the year and I was invited but then I decided I wanted drapes for the house instead. Now that the landscaping is basically finished, I need to finish decorating the inside of the house so I can get it photographed and the drapery is seriously holding things up.
So I said, “Honey, you should go, I’ll get drapes and next year we’ll go together”.
I know, I am a little crazy to choose fabric over Italy but I won’t go another winter without the windows being covered. And drapery for the entire house is expensive.
Also I thought I’d be on the get slimmer plan while Terreeia’s away since she’s the gourmet cook in this relationship–on my own I pretty much eat salad and power bars–but I forgot that my mom now lives nearby. She calls me daily and says “Come and eat”. I love my Mom.
As I write this, it’s noon on Thursday, I looked in the fridge and found nothing to eat, so I rustled up a Pink Smoothie (which is way better than a power bar) and because I’m my Mother’s daughter and she will always add MORE greens to anything so it’s even healthier, I thought “Instead of just one medium carrot, how about two? Instead of a 1/4 of a medium beet, how about 2 small beets.” Ugh, my lunch currently tastes like pulp! I recommend just following the recipe, the first time I did it was absolutely delicious!!
I try to make green smoothies every day. Irene is a great sport, she drinks them even when I’ve stuffed them so full of greens that she declares they taste like grass.
Anyway, Terreeia sent me some pictures from her trip I thought I’d share with you.
She sent me these images when she got to Rome. These lipstick heels come with different colours you can change every day she reported.
Red is hot, Kate at Centsational Girl recently blogged about her trip to New York and said it’s everywhere.
This is the note Terreeia sent me to go along with the image below:
“I keep looking for the hightop running shoes I told you about that they wear with skirts but noticed last night that almost every woman in a skirt or those short shorts was wearing boots.
I emailed her back immediately and said “Don’t buy me any sneaker boots, haha”.
This is where she’s staying. It looks so like Italy doesn’t it? Sigh. Love the yellow!
On the drapery saga, I have chosen this fabric for our family room from Robert Allen:
It will be a horizontal, textured stripe, I just love it!
For my design studio I chose this large plaid because the effect in the end will be a horizontal stripe too. The linen colour relates to my floors.
My living room drapery is currently on hold. I originally wanted a satiny look in yellow but when I ordered a yard of fabric from Maxwell to make sure it was the right colour it was too gold so I’m back to the drawing board. I’d love to put the decision off forever really because it’s for me but I will decide very soon.
Now I’m looking at linen in yellow and I’ve found something at Robert Allen in the right colour so we’ll see. And I’m still on the hunt for drapes for the master.
So my lovelies, what would you have chosen? Am I decor obsessed or what?
Related posts:
All About Curtains
Easy Way to Create Drama with Curtains
Pattern or Solid: Yay or Nay
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I am a fabric/drapery a-holic, but in this instance Italy would have won.
drapes last forever…..
Italy for sure!! Ah well. Next year!
Italy! It is so inspiring for a decorator. You may have even found your fabric there. You could have done your drapes one room at a time. Alas, hindsight is 20/20. PS I just got some beautiful linen for my bedroom drapes at Gray Lines Linen. The Warsa linen is gorgeous! PPS Right now it is puddled on the floor in my bedroom
collecting dustbunnies as we speak as I have been too lazy to hem it!
Italy!!!! What where u thinking? If you got hit by a bus in month, would you be still be thinking about drapes. Carpe Diem!
Italy for sure! Inspirations there would make it worthwhile!
Italy. Romance. Fashion. Food…
Drapes. Totally the drapes for me. 😉
Hmm, hard choice. Italy sounds fantastic, but a winter without drapes? Not so good either…I guess it depends on how practical you are financially. There are times we have to give up one thing to have another (technically called the opportunity cost). Each of us should choose what we feel is best for us, but not regret the choice we made…
Definitely the drapes. I certainly need them, but can’t decide – too many choices!! Can’t wait to see yours.
Well, if travel does not burn in your soul, then don’t go. And Italy will be there.
I have traveled so much I would give anything to never see the inside of a plane again. I have learned that the intrigue and amazing culture are right in one’s backyard, if you learn to see it.
Interesting that you asked after you ad already decided, though LOL
Love your choices on fabric!
Yeah, I too thought it was interesting that you asked us after you’d decided, Maria 😉
Italy — simple linen or burlap panels will do for the windows.
Italy for sure! I have been and the inspiration alone is worth every penny. Decor and design is my passion but I’d hang sheets on my windows just to have another week of the art and the architecture, and the land and the food and the people and….
i would definitely have picked the trip to italy (but you already know that). after all, you had a place to stay… a huge cost saving, and italy has stunning fabric i’m sure — italians are the best for design! so even if not for purchasing it there, you have gotten at the very least free inspiration! can’t wait to see your house!
xoxo
Italy or drapes? Are you kiddin’? For me it would have been a no-brainer: I would have chosen Italy in a heartbeat. I understand about needing (wanting?) your window coverings but if it was my decision I would have nailed sheets over the windows! 🙂 But then again, that’s just me.
My new question to myself (and, in this instance, perhaps to you): Which one would you rather remember when you’re old and in the nursing home?
Well said. I bet the answer would be the drapes.
Travel is overrated. 🙂
When I am in the nursing home, I will remember the triumphs, the smiles on my friends’ faces, the belly laughs, the support through the hard times, how we made a difference. No superficial tours of another country as a gawking tourist, NOR material belongings.
🙂 🙂
I agree with you Meger Anski!!
I would pick Italy…but that’s because I already have drapes. 🙂 As luck would have it, I will be in Italy in a month. Of course, my drapes are probably not as nice as yours are going to be…but that is a sacrifice I am willing to make. 🙂
100% Italy. I’m holding off on a much- needed painting of the house until next year so I can save for a trip to Italy. Travel overrides everything for me.
What???
Italy of course!
I was without drapes (and sofa.and kitchen table.and rugs) for a good 3 years. But I travelled half Europe and I got hooked 🙂
And forget about fabrics in Italy. They cost twice or more than in the US.
Oh Maria, I can so understand. You are a designer at heart and your drapery is a part of who you are and what you are doing with your life. On the other hand, at nearly 60 years old, and having had my custom drapery as well as two trips to Italy, I would have told you to GO TO ITALY WITH TERREIA. Reading through the previous comments, there are great thinking points on both opinions, but more for traveling to Italy with your love and experiencing all that traveling and Italy have to offer. Again, I can relate to your decision and when it’s right for you, you will travel. Just remember the famous quote from Cher. . . “Life is not a dress rehearsal. . . we get only one chance. . . ” As a side note, I have the greatest respect for you, my friend, whatever your choices. <3 Nan
Italy! Experiences are forever! Possessions fade.
Get on a plane right now and join her! Bring your paint swatches and buy fabric in Italy and forgo receiving another present for the next couple of years to make this happen! Can you imagine knowing your drapes were made from Italian fabric BOUGHT in Italy during a romantic getaway?! Seriously book a last minute flight and go! Ciao.
f I had the money right now, I’d take Cathy Z’s advice!
No question –drapes! The trip would be wonderful but over in a week or three. You will enjoy those drapes every day.
Italy! Hop on a plane now! Buy the fabric in Italy; that way your drapes won’t only look beautiful, they will have a great story (memory) behind them.
I would have chosen Italy, but, you sound very at peace with your decision.
Well, you’ve got to do things your own way, but for me…Italia!!!
As much as I love draperies, I would have gone to Italy.
Italy hands down but being happy with your decision is what counts.
Italy baby!
Maria can relate to your dilemma as travel (I am a Sagittarian) and fabrics (am a sewer) have always been two great passions/obsessions of mine; I would still have opted to go to Italy as when you get to be my age sometimes though ‘ the spirit is willing; the body is not’ ☺. However, with that said as the choice ‘you’ made was for ‘yourself’ at this time and place in ‘your’ life; it was definitely the correct one as ‘you’ are only around once my girl. Do what makes ‘you’ happy. -Brenda-
Italy without a doubt for me. My husband proposed to me in Portofino, so Italy has a special place in my heart plus it is an amazing place. Travel always takes precedent over material things for me though because I think the memories are more precious. However, I always say “to each his own” because a lot of people need to see something tangible for their money and feel that trips just bring short-term pleasure. Everyone should do what makes them happy!
I’m with you on the drapes!
It’s easy to say travel … when you already have the basics.
But drapes are basics – and I too hate the idea of winter without good window coverings.
If it is not too nosy Maria -what is a ballpark figure for that much custom drapery?
Maria,
shame on you for not going to Italy…live every day like it’s your last! Curtains can wait. Perhaps there is some other reason you did not want to go and you are choosing to make it about the curtains.
Italy for sure! Drapes last a few years, but memories last forever.
For me, it would be no choice at all because I don’t even like drapes; paying anything for them would go at the bottom of my list below all kinds of other purchases, both frivolous and utilitarian. (That said, I do like your fabric choices and direction; “other people’s drapes” are attractive to me if they’re not gaudy or fussy.)
Different choices would be more challenging to me — say redoing our not-touched-in-50-years gross bathroom vs. Italy — but I believe I’d still pick the trip. I’ve missed out on two trips that a friend was picking up a big cost of (plane travel) due to family illness for one and hurricane destruction for the other. I regret now that I didn’t try harder to work around the obstacles and go . . . .
Well I’ve never been to Italy but I’ve had custom draperies in my last 3 houses ! So I guess I could have gone many times if I had wanted to. You’re going to enjoy them everyday for a long time.
Italy for sure! You will get tired of the drapes some day but your memories of Italy will stay with you forever:) You only live once after all.
Maria, for me, living in a clean, well appointed home brings me pleasure on a daily basis. Traveling holds less appeal and is something that is often stressful. At this time in my life I desire tranquility and my home provides that. I’m never home enough between work, errands and social occasions, and sitting in my yard or sunroom, enveloping myself in the sights and sounds of nature is like a small taste of heaven. I would choose drapes as they would frame and enhance the view of your beautiful landscaping and you would derive pleasure from on a daily basis.
OK, if you put it THAT way…..:-)
I can/ do have fun just doing things around here. I think my first thought was- yeah I’d probably stay home too. I don’t think anyone else has said this but sometimes it’s kind of nice to have the house to yourself. I know that sounds awful!!!!! I have a great marriage but sometimes alone time is when I get the most creative. Once I’m on a mission I need to get that out of the way then go play. My missions in the end usually involve roping my husband into doing things he doesn’t want to do. SO if he had a great trip that could work to my advantage hahaha. He’d come home refreshed and ready to take orders…I mean help. I’m just being honest.
ITALY, you never know what will happen and your friends might not be there next year. We went to France with friends that have a place there. It was a last minute unplanned decision and we are very financially responsible/planned. It was a fabulous trip made much better by having hosts that knew the region. Pack your bags and grab this opportunity, don’t leave Terrie to experience it without you as that only lowers the quality of the trip for her.
I love textiles. I love travelling.
Get the drapes. Next year…..Italy!
Those were my thoughts exactly. Well said!
I normally wouldn’t say anything about your decision – each to his own. However you asked, and I’ve just made this sort of decision – ugly, already torn up master bath vs. trip to Paris this summer – and I chose Paris. It was over 2 weeks of beauty and endless memories. I know I will still make that bathroom happen, somehow – but Paris?
I figured there will always be reasons not to spend the money and go, but a trip you won’t forget – even when you’ve long forgotten the reasons not to go. So, if you still can, my advice is to hop on a plane! Go!
I’m sure I would have chosen the drapes too. My home is my haven, and I get so much pleasure from it. You and Terreeia should start making plans now to take a fun trip next summer. Something to look forward to!
I have never regretted not buying something. But I have so many regrets because I missed experiences, travel or otherwise, with my friends and families. For me, life is too short to miss out on those opportunities anymore. I only wish I had realized that 15 years ago.
However, you are a designer. You need to get your house photographed. There are extenuating circumstances here related to your business that makes this far from cut and dried.
You only go around once in life so I would have chosen Italy in a second. Experiences are far more important than material goods.
No contest. Travel, always. X
I have used world linen and the past and been very happy.
http://store.schindlersfabrics.com/wolipastso10.html
Italy…if your house gets cold in the winter with no drapes, cuddle with your husband 😉
You should not have to take out a second mortgage to pay for drapes.
Take your drape budget and cut it in half. Take the rest and go to Italy. When you get back,
find yourself a drapery professional who will source the right fabric for you, at the price that suits your budget. You can bet your sweet bippy that anyone with one of the higher-end designer fabric books under her arm is making a really decent markup on the fabric, typically about 100 percent. Find yourself someone who carries some of the less expensive lines which often have the same fabric as the high-end dealers. And there are some just amazing lines out there that retail at a lot less than the big guys. (A few with showrooms in Vancouver too.) A week ago I saw a fabric in a book listed at 120.00 per yard. The SAME fabric is available elsewhere at 49.00. This is not unusual; if your drapery professional knows her stuff she can do this for you.
Then talk to your friend Patricia at Textile and get some good rods. She’ll know what’s right for you. Have your drapes made by a workroom.
And get yourself to Italy, for heaven’s sake.
Hi Linda, I’m hooked up thanks! Drapery is a service I provide for my clients, still all that yardage is not cheap no matter how you slice it. Maria
I paid $8.75 per yard for my European linen and made them myself! Saved $1000!
As a fellow designer who also works from home, I really “see” and take pleasure from being surrounded by beauty 365 days a year. Almost all homes feel much cozier and more inviting with draperies, and beautiful fabrics and colors make me happy. Plus I entertain a lot at home and also want to have my home photo-ready. Not that I wouldn’t enjoy a trip to Italy, but in my experience, travel is romanticized and having traveled several times in Europe, I would pick the draperies too. Sometimes we miss the beauty around us and only notice it when we’re traveling, but the fix for that is to pay attention all the time. Great memories can be made anywhere.
HI Anne, I really feel this way too. If I started adding up all the money I’ve spent on home decor it would equal a lot of trips but given that I have the on-going ability to make my home feel like a luxurious hotel somewhere fabulous, I just can’t put it on hold and wait for someday while I take trips. I have dreamed all my life of owning my own home and now that I do, the pleasure that I get every single day just being in a home that looks exactly like I want it to look, far outweighs a 2 week trip for me right now.
And I will definitely go next year. The porch will not win over the trips then, haha!
Thanks for your comment.
Maria
Amen, Amen and Amen!! I actually have a very similar decision to make: a 2 week vacation with hubby or furniture that will make me happy 365 days a year….I’ve been leaning towards the latter
You made the right choice, Maria. I have traveled many places and I agree with everything Meger Anski says:
MEGER ANSKI SAYS:
September 5, 2013 at 5:51 pm
Well, if travel does not burn in your soul, then don’t go. And Italy will be there.
I have traveled so much I would give anything to never see the inside of a plane again. I have learned that the intrigue and amazing culture are right in one’s backyard, if you learn to see it.
Interesting that you asked after you ad already decided, though LOL
Love your choices on fabric!
MEGER ANSKI SAYS:
September 6, 2013 at 4:30 am
Well said. I bet the answer would be the drapes.
Travel is overrated.
When I am in the nursing home, I will remember the triumphs, the smiles on my friends’ faces, the belly laughs, the support through the hard times, how we made a difference. No superficial tours of another country as a gawking tourist, NOR material belongings.
I LOVE this comment! Thank you for the reminder Meger!
Italy for sure but I can’t wait to see the drapes.
Hi Maria! LOVE this post. My hub and I planned a Paris trip for our 10th anniversary and some friends were considering going with us. When the husband decided they couldn’t go becase they were planning to rebuild their porch, his wife said, “Are you a Paris Person or a Porch Person?!?”. Well, that put the Paris trip back in and now that phrase is our slogan anytime there’s question of decor or travel. I gave up family room furniture last winter! You will love Italy next year!
Haha, that’s funny because our entire porch/patio also needs to be replaced but that will go on hold next year for the travel.
I would buy retail drapes AND go to Italy. I just installed some really lovely dupioni silk drapes from a retail store and love them…..but I really understand and value personal choices. Can’t wait to see your rooms with drapes.
Hi Maria, Love your blog!! Why not plantation shutters instead of drapes. They are great to control light, heat or cold and once installed the windows are done for a long time and if later you want to add some fabric you can. Otherwise you are the designer!!
ITALY! Life experiences with loved ones beats out material possessions (and although I’d choose Italy, I’d also mourn the lack of drapes realizing the drapes are longer-lasting than a fleeting vacation).
I would have chosen the trip also but I often have the conversation with myself about decorating (kitchen redo) vs traveling. What usually closes the argument is thinking about what each will mean when I look back on my life. And experiences I think will always win out over things in my head. Still I love curtains…
I am amazed at the answers here; I would have put this at a no-brainer in “go to Italy!” It is really surprising to me that so many people have gone the drapery route. People are so interesting and different.
For me, I will take experience over things any day. New experiences stretch me in ways I haven’t been before and make me grow more as a person. A new possession just means hours of deciding and choosing and caring for and installing.
I also lived without drapes for 25 years.
I would have chosen Italy. You know you would have still gotten the draperies regardless of going, because when you returned, you would still be bothered by not having them. But you might not end up going to Italy together next year, because something else might take precedence over going.
I remember a few years ago I had an opportunity to go to London for two weeks. My mom didn’t think I should go because I had bills to pay and really couldn’t afford to take time off work. She said, ‘you can always go to London another time.’ My answer was, ‘yes, I could, but the question is whether I actually will if I don’t go this time.’ I decided I wasn’t going to take the chance that I might not actually ever go.
Long after the new drapes are needing to be replaced you would still have had your memories of Italy with Terreeia.
People and experiences are more important than objects. I would have stapled up some linen from Fabricland over a rod, and saved my pennies for great drapery later on.
I hope you don’t look at those draperies in years to come and remember you chose them over Italy and Terreeia : (
Just having a glimpse of who your passionate self is through your website here, sounds like you indeed did make the right choice for you. Who knows, maybe France is calling louder than Italy next time!
BTW, I never regretted deciding to go to London. Yes, I had to struggle financially for several months afterwards, but the trip was something I’ll probably never again have an opportunity to take.
I only read your title and first paragraph and knew my answer before I actually read your first paragraph.
ITALY! (I know, caps are taboo in emails but I’m THAT serious about my answer!)
Go. right. now.
Guaranteed, you will not come back saying: I shouldn’t have gone. You will come back with memories, knowing you can do something spontaneous, adventurous, perhaps outside of your comfort-zone and have the time of your life. She has friends living part of the year in Italy – wow! Grap that opportunity, Maria. You never know when illness (your own; a family member; your partner) changes your life in an instance.
Your memories last for ever. Your drapes you might find in Italy or perhaps so incredibly inexpensive when you’re home again and then you’ll say: I should have gone to Italy with my sweetheart. Do you want that to hear your that refrain – I should have – for the rest of your life?! Go, my dear – you’ll have no regrets.
We lived in a 972 sq. ft. house until our two sons were 13 and 16 because we used our money instead to travel, and the memories we all have because of that are unbelievable.
Get to your computer and book your tickets. Right now! Just as you know your colours and are confident in those decisions, I know I am always right when I think: material things vs. travel.
Enjoy yourselves and give us a travel report when you’re back.
Happy Travels (and thanks for the great colour advice on our outside a few weeks ago),
-Marianne
ITALY! Enough said.
Italy, a thousand times, Italy!!
I went last year for the first time and I’m already learning Italian in preparation for my next trip (next spring). And no, I don’t have an extensive travel budget… and I’m putting off badly-needed living room sofas to do it.
Trips like Italy permanently enrich your soul like nothing else can. You linger over the memories every day. You see things differently back home. Your design choices become even more informed. For a “quiet intellectual” like you, Maria, it’s way more than just some tourist sites and snapshots… it’s like the difference between getting an education, or not. Once you have the education, you couldn’t possibly forgo it.
In your comment above I really heard that you love the daily “experience” of your own home, done as you wish. I get that. But until you’ve experienced a trip like Italy, you don’t know how much greater impact that singular experience has. It’s like being a travel “virgin”… if I may extend the metaphor, sex can really seem over-rated to a young girl… until she experiences it in a fabulous way!! Then, you never question again whether it’s “worth it”. 😉 I really think that’s why so many people would have chosen Italy on this thread. It was that way for me… Having gone once, I’ll never again forgo the opportunity.
Start saving now for next year! Even better, book those tickets for 2014 now, before anything else occurs to derail it!!
Ciao,
Lisa
Maria,
I would have chosen Italy over drapes, but if it had been a choice between traveling around the world or redoing my kitchen, I would have chosen the kitchen. I guess it’s a question of degree. Not being a designer, I’m not as concerned about having all the details perfect in the rest of my house–as long as it looks pretty and comfortable, I’m good. But you live and breathe design, so choosing drapes makes sense. Being happy with our homes satisfies some desire that goes very deep (at least for those of us with an aesthetic sense–heaps of people don’t seem to care!). I hope your drapes turn out exactly as you envision them!
The drapes can wait until you’re a little older, and of course so can Italy, but Italy will be much easier to maneuver and more enjoyable when you’re a little younger! I say this because I spent a summer there at age 20 and took note of the tour busses filled with elderly people…of course maybe they were really only my age now and I just looked at them as “elderly” at the time!
Italy for sure.
I know where you are coming from about the drapes but I like to seize the moment, as you never know what curve ball life will throw at you.
I just got back from a spur of the moment trip to Vegas was my first time there. What an exciting city.
So while you will have beautiful new drapes to come to I will have memories but I am happy with my decision.
PS can’t wait to see your gorgeous new drapes:)
Another vote for Italy.
Not sure what I would decide. Italy proabably. I’m always going cheap on window coverings (diy, and clearance). I’m emracing shiny right now despite the slubby linen trend because they can be found on sale. Also on sale for 10 bucks were the wedge sneakers I’ll be wearing to your workshop this month! 😉
Maria, really!!
Drapes over true love?
The rooms will stay warm with those paper blinds you stick to the top of the window. (I got mine at Home Depot)
Hearts stay warm spending time together. Memories last forever. Fabric shreds and disintigrates over time.
I know. I’m pretty strong on this. No offense meant.
Go on. Enjoy time in Italy with Terreeia.
Hi Maria,
I found myself in this same type of dilemma just a few
weeks ago tho I was trying to decide between taking
your class and new front doors for my house and now
a new washer and dryer. Not to hurt you feelings but
I chose the front door and washer and dryer tho its going to just really make me despair as I will be in Vancouver when your class is going on and I have been
wanting to take it for a long time now. Even tho I could use the knowledge for years, the house won out as I am disabled and spend more time than ever at home and
that front door will let new light into my life.
I so enjoy your column tho…….I have learned a lot. You
are fortunate that you will be able to afford both in
your lifetime.
Carol
Italy, no contest!
There’s No Place Like Home
Next year get your porch + go to Banff.
Travel or draperies???? You made the choice that felt best for YOU. Regarding window treatment for your living room/dining room, if I may offer a suggestion? Classic and very much in tune with your aesthetic would be an interesting texture in a color closely related to your wall color with edge banding in black(could be a pattern or plain) hanging from slender stainless steal finished rods with a casual pleat header. This approach would look great whether as side panels or full draw draperies. Your favorite yellow in draperies or side panels, on the other hand, would dilute the punch of the yellow that you already have in your furniture, and would also make your room quite lopsided, especially if you need full draw draperies. That would be a LOT of yellow!
Maria,Maria, you should have asked us before T left, now it would be like going to the party late-I would have said Italia!!!! we went to Europe a year ago today for 8 weeks, it was life changing and so incredible, it still takes my breath away thinking about it- priceless!! however, you do hop on a plane a lot and travel quite a bit for your work, so your home is your castle, and it is vitally important to you, to finish that castle, so I say, no harm, no foul, finish your work and go to Italy next year with a heart that is in it 100 per cent-you did not make a mistake not going right now!
Adding my voice… Travel would be my choice BUT…I think Maria, you made the right decision. You’re home is your passion and your business card. I’ve been in many designer’s homes and thought I wouldn’t hire them based on what I saw.
Enjoy your time creating the space you desire for you and your partner.
My vote would be for Italy. (silly, short story) …. I always iron my clothes first because I will never not iron my hubbies. If I did his first I would just put off doing mine. Memories last a lifetime. You would still find the money for your window coverings, ‘cuz after all, they can’t go naked forever.
I T A L Y ! ! !
Ah, Maria, Maria..how could you not go to Italy with a name like Maria! She’s all over Italy. And there are towns in Tuscany, Florence etc that are full of fantastic fabric. Italian drapes are simple and beautiful, wonderful linens. I agree with many of the above. Get on a plane, go there. But then, I’m Italian. Even if I don’t buy anything, it gives me joy. For the time being put a screen in front of those windows!
This is a tough one! I have been to Italy and it was so amazing. But I just got my first custom drapes, and they are amazing as well. 4 windows cost 1/2 of our 11 days in Italy. Craziness!
The important thing here is that you and Terreeia are okay with this decision you made:) Nuf said.
Experience over material every time.
Hi Maria. What many seem to have overlooked is that these are Terreeia’s friends, and you were included. That was gracious of Terreeia’s friends, but, let her take the pictures and have the memories of a visit with them. Next year is time enough for you and she to make memories special to just the 2 of you. Italy is beautiful, but so is your own backyard. And, the warmth you’ll feel when your nest is feathered just so will make you happier than any trip could have made you. My draperies are something I enjoy daily. Pictures of places I’ve visited and lived in are in a box in the closet. Sure there are great memories, but one finds that the best are always the ones made at home with family and personal friends. Others have said it and so will I: Travel is waaayy overrated!!
But those adorable booties with lipstick heels are something I’ll dream about for a while – too cute!
Italy!! No brainer! Memories over Things EVERY TIME…Until….. you mentioned looking forward to the week as your private time to slim. You’re getting calls to “come and eat” and Italy being the food fest it is…I have to change from my initial instincts and say DRAPES (and your private week of eating as you want to is your “memory” of happy solitude)!!!!
After being a flight attendant for almost 40 years and always traveling overseas, I’d never underestimate the feeling of being ” home “…. drapes can frame your outlook on everyday living, and there’s no place like home !!!!
the rest of the world will still be waiting for you, Maria !
Ditto Nan Parker! well said. I know it’s your career though Maria, and you want to post the finished product. Next year go to Italy with her, no excuses! get tickets early they are cheaper and then you are committed.
Will be in Italy in six days time. Will let you know if I made the right choice. My livingroom blinds vs draperies will do for awhile yet.. Ciao!
No contest……Italy is all about love, people, food, vino, beauty, everything…….., maybe drapes, too! You have to just go someday and no worries about drapes.
My boyfriend just said , “she’s crazier than you!”. I am redecorating my LR/DR but decided to leave some slipcovers undone so that i can take a trip to Va and NC in Oct. Its not Italy but the slips can wait. I totally get wanting to complete a decoration/design project since we r in our homes for 50 weeks out of 52. But ITALY??? Go for it
Hmmm. As my grandma always said, when faced with a tough choice, when you are 85 which one would you wish you’d chosen? Life intervenes way too often to count on second chances. So: if it were me, Italy. Hands down.
Really?
I Always try to choose personal relationships over material objects. Life is short, live it to fullest.
Italy, maybe you would have found drapery fabric there that was out of this world gorgeous.
Italy, no question about it. The inspiration you’d get there is priceless, (and you can always find a way to get drapery)!
You killed me… I would have picked Italy hands down!!! But, if you are going the next year, then T will have figured out all the places you’ll like, so I suppose your decision made sense. 🙂
As a Libra and a hardcore homebody, I would have chosen drapes without a hesitation! In fact, I kind of made that choice as well, since I just had drapes installed over my plantation shutters. Those total for all of those window treatments together would have made a fantastic vacation, but I love the beauty of home more than travel!
I’m a Libra too, like Nataly. Love my new drapes in on the windows behind my new grand piano. But…I’m also a traveler and work part-time for an airline. I could not give up a trip dreaming of all the wonderful experiences with my love, and so many beautiful things I could find in Italy to bring home. Your world and your heart expand so much when you travel (and yes, your credit card bill if you aren’t wise!) I would have to do both and pay for it later! 🙂
Italy or drapes?????? After living in Italy for 3 years I can honestly say: I would live a whole life without draperies if I could go back and live there again…. And for a visit; yes, I’d wait a year to buy drapes (or better; buy some FABULOUS fabric at one of their fabric stores and then you would have Italy AND drapes!!!) You missed out. Seriously; you missed out big time!
I would definitely chose the window treatments! Excellent decision.