We have been in California for almost two weeks. We were there to attend the memorial service for my mother-in-law. The service was held at Cal State University in LA where she was a Professor Emeritus. The stories about how she helped so many in their educational pursuits as well as careers were wonderful. We knew many of the stories but just as many were a surprise. She was an amazing woman ans so unselfish.
The rest of our time was spent clearing out her home. We made a dent, but are by no means done. She and her husband had purchased the home in 1945 and her four children had all grown up there, each leaving at least several boxes of stuff. The amount of photos was overwhelming in itself. Add to that the papers, photos, and mementos her mom left to her. Simply, it is quite a lot. She didn't really care about having things, but just living adds stuff.
We did spend one day on our own. We had breakfast with my brother and visited Zinnia on Mission St in South Pasadena. I called Tamara, the owner and my friend, before going there to make sure she would be around. I am glad I did because I was greeted by a full marching band on either side of her front door when I arrived! Can you imagine her going to all that trouble just to greet me?
Well, okay, she didn't go to all that trouble. It was just a coincidence that the strolling band arrived at her store at the same time I did. They were there to serenade the Mission St shoppers.
I love Tamara's store, but decked out for the holidays, it was very creative and cool.
All through the store Tamara and Joe Carrion (who also designed some cool stamps for me when I was owner of Stampers Anonymous) drew in black and white Christmas themes. Modern and old fashioned at the same time, they did this window complete with a scalloped wood Christmas tablecloth.


I thought that we had a very cool bathroom at the Creative Block, but Zinnia has an even better one.
I am always so inspired when I am at Tamara's store.
Right down the street from her, a block or three, is my cousin Jeff's art studio. We stopped in to see him and his lovely and talented wife, Lorraine. If Zinnia inspired us, BurkeTriolo Studio knocked our socks off. Everywhere one turns is a great idea, great art or clever use of space and materials. Most of the design work was done by Lorraine who should be an interior designer. It is all a lovely artistic blend of old, new and funky. Jeff and Lorraine are such gracious and welcoming hosts. It was a great day for us and a needed change from the sad work of clearing out John's mom's home.