A few months ago, I was standing alone in the post office
with a freshly delivered package in hand.
with a freshly delivered package in hand.
It was a simple paper envelope that looked like any other.
But inside of it, there were so many things that
you couldn’t see at first glance.
But inside of it, there were so many things that
you couldn’t see at first glance.
There were baby steps
and taking chances.
Following dreams
and taking chances.
Following dreams
ups and downs and in betweens.
Possibilities
and
even that Pooh bear wisdom.
Possibilities
and
even that Pooh bear wisdom.
Do you remember my post about Winnie the Pooh
and stepping out of the forest?
and stepping out of the forest?
It is from a couple years ago but it was
about something my sister said to me when I first started blogging
to encourage me to stop hiding in the safety of the forest
and to step out into the sunshine.
about something my sister said to me when I first started blogging
to encourage me to stop hiding in the safety of the forest
and to step out into the sunshine.
Taking that step and chance is not always easy-
it can be scary to put yourself out there.
But not chasing those dreams
is even scarier.
it can be scary to put yourself out there.
But not chasing those dreams
is even scarier.
So you take a step- even if it is a baby step at first.
And that day in the post office
that plain envelope in my hands held
something that started out with one of those little baby steps.
that plain envelope in my hands held
something that started out with one of those little baby steps.
Inside that envelope was a stack of papers.
And even though I knew what those papers were
I sat down and I read them several times
and then closed my eyes
And even though I knew what those papers were
I sat down and I read them several times
and then closed my eyes
and soaked up a little bit of that moment
because…
because…
I am so thrilled to share that I have partnered with Gibbs Smith –
who publishes some of my absolute favorite inspiration books and designers
and who is a dream publisher for me.
And they have asked me to tell the story with my photography as well-
which is a huge honor.
and who is a dream publisher for me.
And they have asked me to tell the story with my photography as well-
which is a huge honor.
it is all about the story behind the style.
The mix and mingle of French Country & Cottage
with a dash of romance and storybook ambiance.
It is inspired living, our home, outdoor living, entertaining
The mix and mingle of French Country & Cottage
with a dash of romance and storybook ambiance.
It is inspired living, our home, outdoor living, entertaining
beautiful flowers (of course) inspirations
and it will include rooms and things I haven’t shared here on my blog before
and
so much more.
and it will include rooms and things I haven’t shared here on my blog before
and
so much more.
And I am so.excited. to finally be able to share this news with you.
You have all been such a big part of French Country Cottage
and I am incredibly grateful for your encouragement, support and friendship
over the past 6 years.
You have all been such a big part of French Country Cottage
and I am incredibly grateful for your encouragement, support and friendship
over the past 6 years.
And I am excited about this new chapter for French Country Cottage
full of possibilities and new dreams
and can hardly wait to share more with you soon.
Happy Monday.
DeAnna says
I can't wait to have a copy of it. Congratulations Courtney!
Courtney says
Thank you so much DeAnna!!
Donna Scearce says
I am so happy for your new book! You are a wonderful inspiration to those of us who are still waiting to take that baby step!
Congrats!
Donna Scearce
Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things says
I am thrilled for you! I can't wait to get a copy!
Courtney says
Thank you Penny!!!
Barb @ The Everyday Home says
All I am going to say is…it's about time. Can't wait. xxoo
Courtney says
Thank you Barbara!! Waiting to get a hold of your book soon too! xo
Splenderosa says
BIG, HUGE CONGRATULATIONS !!!
What wonderful news, Courtney.
xx's
Courtney says
Thanks so much Marsha. I appreciate it!
Sunny says
Congratulations! I can't wait to see it!
Courtney says
Me too!!! 🙂 Thank you Sunny!
French Ethereal says
Oh! So excited for you, Courtney!!! Congratulations on your book signing! I think I can say from most of us who come and read your blog, we will love buying and having your book in our book collection. Happy for you!!!!!
Congrats again,
Barb ????????
Courtney says
Aww thank you Barbara! You are always so kind and I appreciate your sweet comments!
organicgardendreams says
Congratulations, Courtney! You totally deserve it! You have a very unique style that always stand out to me here in blogland like a bright lonely star in the sky and I am happy for you that you have the chance to express your creativity even more. Where can I sign up to pre-order your new book?
Warm regards,
Christina
Courtney says
Thank you- that is such a compliment. I am excited to share more! The book will be sold in book stores and online retailers and when we get to pre-order time- you all will be the first to know!! 🙂
DecRenew Interiors says
Doing the happy dance for you my friend! Well deserved!!!!
Courtney says
Thanks so much Ruthie!! Hope to see you soon! xo
Sharon Rexroad says
yay, Yay, YAY!!!!!! As soon as I read your headline, I was hoping this was the news! And what a fantastic publisher too — I covet many of their books amongst my favorites. As I'm sure I'll covet yours.
Courtney says
Thank you Sharon!! 🙂 And yes, Gibbs-Smith is a DREAM publisher – they do such a beautiful job with design books!
Michele says
Oh, Courtney – that is just awesome news. It's not at all surprising – but sure is delightful to find out it really is happening for you. You deserve this. I'll be on the waiting list early, trust me on that one! Yipppeeeee! Ya "done" good, Pooh Bear. ♥
Courtney says
Thank you Michele!! You are so kind!!
Amy {The Idea Room} says
Congratulations! That is so exciting! You are a beautiful designer and decorator and this is well deserved! Can't wait to see it! xo
Courtney says
Thanks so much Amy! I hope all is well over your way!
Unknown says
I can't wait for it to grace my coffee table, it's going to be beautiful! Congratulations!
Courtney says
Thank you sweet friend!! xo
Jamie-So Much Better With Age says
Congratulations, Courtney! This is no surprise to me! It's going to be gorgeous and I'll be first in line to purchase it and help promote it. xoxoxo
Big hugs my friend, Jamie
Courtney says
Thank you so much Jamie!! I appreciate that and feel the same about your book! xo
Unknown says
Congratulations Courtney! You have totally earned it — writing a book and having it published is an amazing adventure. Savor every moment of the journey!
Courtney says
Thank you Joan!! xo
Marty@A Stroll Thru Life says
Wow, congratulations!!!!!
Courtney says
Thank you Marty!
Sarah says
It couldn't happen to a more deserving, creative, and darling individual. I'm beyond excited for you and for us! Now the waiting till next summer when we can have this beautiful publication and story in our own homes. Congratulations, Courtney! Well done!!!!!
Courtney says
You are always so kind Sarah- thank you so much for your sweet words! xo
Rosemary@villabarnes says
Congratulations!!! You deserve it!
Courtney says
Thank you Rosemary!
Kim @ Savvy Southern Style says
A big congrats, my friend as I know it will be fabulous!!
Courtney says
Aww thank you Kim! I hope to see you at Haven!! xo
~ ~ Ahrisha~ ~ says
Congratulations Courtney! You are so deserving. Your blog and your style is one of my favorites. When I move into my new cottage it will be filled with your stylish colors and ideas. Best Wishes.
Courtney says
Oh decorating your cottage sounds like so much fun- thank you Ahrisha!!
Deanna Rabe - Creekside Cottage Blog says
That's really awesome Courtney! Congratulations!
Courtney says
Thanks so much Deanna!
Unknown says
I knew it! Not at all surprised:). I always thought with your photography and storytelling, I imagined I was reading a book:).
Congratulations Courtney!
Kathleen in Az
Courtney says
Haha! I have been keeping it a secret- but it has been soo hard! Thank you so much for your kind words Kathleen!! xo
Cathy Hickman says
TOTAL AWESOMENESS MY FRIEND******SO HAPPY FOR YOU !!! Can't wait to read it & enjoy your beautiful vision of this world
Courtney says
Thank you Cathy!
Shirley@Housepitality Designs says
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I knew it was just a matter of time! So exciting Courtney!! Just know it will be more than amazing!
Courtney says
Thanks so much Shirley- you are so sweet!! I hope to see you at Haven!! xo
Anonymous says
How truly exciting, wonderful and amazing! Congratulations on your success…so far 🙂 More to come I'm sure. 😀
Courtney says
Thank you so much!
Unknown says
How very AWESOME! Congrats to you Courtney — Your blog is a favorite of mine as you are so inspiring with your style ideas and photography! Being able to enjoy it all in your book will be amazing! I can't wait to get my very own copy!!!
Courtney says
Thank you Debra!! I appreciate your kind words!
Tracey says
Follow those dreams! Congratulations!
Courtney says
Yes, indeed!! Thanks Tracey!
Artsy VaVa says
Congratulations! That's wonderful news and well deserved.
Courtney says
Thank you!
Sarah Jane says
Congratulations! I just discovered your blog and am so inspired by all you do! Can't wait for the book 🙂
Courtney says
Thank you Sarah Jane!! And welcome- glad you are here!
Sandra at Maison De Jardin says
Many sincere congratulations Courtney. I am sure your book will be outstanding and take you many places you never expected to go. Breathe and enjoy – you have worked hard for the lovely and special blog you write. You scatter joy and beauty in the lives of many!
Courtney says
Such a kind note Sandra. I love the idea that I am helping to scatter beauty and joy- thank you so much!
Mimi says
Dreams really do come true Courtney! Congratulations! Mimi xxx
Courtney says
indeed!!! Thanks Mimi!
Raylene says
Congratulations Courtney! This is such wonderful news and I'm so very happy for you! I can't wait to get my copy.
Courtney says
Thank you Raylene!
Unknown says
That is so wonderful Courtney! You must be beyond excited. I cannot wait until I can order a copy. I look forward to devouring every word and picture many times over tea.
Congratulations!!!
Courtney says
Aww thank you Elisa- I appreciate it!
Bonnie says
Great news and so well deserved! I look forward to buying your book.
Courtney says
Thank you Bonnie!
Unknown says
Congratulations and make sure you give your sister a hug. You should be proud of your perseverance and accomplishments. Love your blog
Courtney says
Indeed!! My sister is seriously the best- she is one of those wise souls! Thanks so much Lola!!
Debra says
Congratulations. It is sure to be a beautiful book as the blog is so beautiful.
Joyce Emilee says
So excited for you and cannot wait for my own copy
Courtney says
Thank you so much!
Anonymous says
OMG, how exciting!!!!! I'm so happy for you!!! Congratulations!!!
Courtney says
Thank you!! 🙂
Kathy says
Congratulations, Courtney! I know this will be a very beautiful book. I look forward to getting a copy. I'm a great fan of Pooh bear! Love the connection! See you at Haven!
Kathy
Courtney says
Thank you Kathy!! Pooh bear is the best 🙂 See you soon!
Cindy says
Courtney, this is truly amazing, and so well deserved! Congratulations! I can't wait to get my copy when it comes out!
Best,
Cindy
Edith&Evelyn
Courtney says
Thank you Cindy!! xo
Anonymous says
Many congratulations Courtney!! I absolutely enjoy your blog, photos and style and am so pleased for you that you dared and you are doing x0x
Courtney says
Thank you so much!
june says
I have been waiting for you to post your exciting news. This is so exciting! Can't imagine how you can even sleep.
Courtney says
Thank you June!! It was so hard for me to not share right away! haha.
Amy Chalmers says
Wow!! How wonderful to see this post as I'm tucking into bed. Courtney I'll be preordering your book as soon as it's available. You are so talented!
Courtney says
Thanks so much Amy!! You are such a sweet friend.
Anonymous says
What wonderful news for you ~ so happy for you.
Congratulations !!!
Enjoy every moment. Much love, Rose
Courtney says
Thank you Rose!
Miss Mustard Seed says
Well, it's about time!! 🙂
Courtney says
Haha!! Was it 2 years ago at Haven we were chatting about this – or 3? It has been a bit!! I know you know how long this dream has been swirling around… thanks for your friendship and encouragement Marian!
Patricia says
Courtney, I am truly elated for you. Congratulations on your book and also all of your other blog accomplishments. I'm not sure I've ever before commented on your posts until now, though yours is perhaps my favorite blog of all, and I've been following it for almost all these past six years. It has been the inspiration for me beginning to embrace French Country style in my own home…and explaining to my husband my "new found" French sensibilities.I love the beauty and romance of the look and, besides which, my maternal grandmother, Doris Chardon, was French. Wishing you continued and growing success. Patricia
Courtney says
What a kind note Patricia- I so appreciate you taking the time to say hello and for following along! Thank you!!
licha20 says
WOW!! Congratulations ???? I look forward to opening your book soon!
Courtney says
Thank you!
Angelina at Petite Haus says
Congratulations, Courtney! What a fabulous opportunity! Wishing you the very best while you write your book as I imagine it will be a ton of work, but we will all be so happy to read it!!!
Courtney says
It is a lot of work for sure… but so excited to be doing it!! Thanks so much Angelina!
Unknown says
Congratulations! So excited and very happy for you. Can't wait for your book to come out. I know it will be fabulous!
Courtney says
Thank you Donna!! 🙂
Mary Beth says
Congratulations, Courtney! I am so very happy for you.
Courtney says
Thank you Mary Beth!
pamela says
WOW!!!!1 Just reading that little strip was like my heart jump for joy for you!!!. So looking forward to getting a copy of your book!!! I know you will do a awesome job because it is in to do…..You can do this…..Hugs and More Hugs…
Courtney says
Thank you so much Pamela! I am excited!
Maison de Cinq says
Courtney I am so, so sincerely excited for you! I have followed your blog since the start and I can't think of anyone who I'd rather see write a book!
I'll be excited to read it – Can't wait! Heartfelt congratulations to you!!
Sheila
Maison de Cinq
Xoxo
Courtney says
Thanks so much Sheila!! You are so sweet! Hope to see you again soon! xo
Botanic Bleu says
Courtney,
Congratulations! Your blog was one of the first I found and began following when I discovered blogs. Along the way you have been one of my inspirations. As I began writing my own blog, I studied your style of writing and photography as examples of how to improve. I still study your photography with an analytical approach of seeing the composition.
I am excited for you and am looking forward to reading your book with all its pages and pages of more inspiration.
Judith
Courtney says
Aww thank you Judith- so kind of you!
Alison says
That is so wonderful!!! I can't wait to buy the book, congratulations!
Courtney says
Thank you!
Wendy A. Hoke says
Wow!! What a wonderful dream come true!! Congratulations! Can't wait to buy a copy!
Courtney says
Thanks so much Wendy!
Anonymous says
This is amazing news! I am so excited for you, and quite frankly your readers, because we now get a book from you! I cant wait for it to grace my coffee table. CONGRADULATIONS! Amanda
Courtney says
Thank you Amanda!!
Marisa Franca @ Allourway says
Congratulations!! What a beautiful book it will be!! The minute we can preorder I will. I can't wait to see it. I may be able to hold my own in the cooking/gardening department but decorating I am very shy. So shy I freeze at the thought of choosing a paint color. I don't want to make a mistake so I don't make one at all and end up keeping the same colors even though I don't like them. 😉 Do you think Winnie could give me the confidence to come out of the forest and pick some colors?
Courtney says
Oh I think Winnie (and my sister) have wisdom for everything so you never know!! Thanks so much Marisa!!
Jacqueline~Cabin and Cottage says
Huge. A big congratulations! So happy for you. The book will be so beautiful.
Courtney says
Thanks so much Jacqueline!
Susan says
What wonderful news! Very exciting for you and well deserved. Looking forward to your continued success in design and inspiration as well your new career as an author. Well done.
Courtney says
Author!!! Sounds so real and official!! 🙂 Thanks so much Susan- I appreciate it!!
Chloianna says
Congratulations!!
Courtney says
Thank you Chloianna!
Unknown says
Oh my how exciting!!! God sends us angels when we need them and they come in many forms. I believe that form for you was your sister!! I look forward when we can purchase your beautiful book because all of your post are so beautiful so of course it will be even more so! Congratulations Courtney!
Courtney says
Most definitely!! My sister is amazing and she has given me tidbits of wisdom so many times- she pretty much rocks. That is probably why she is an adored and amazing teacher too. 🙂 Thank you Lin!
Unknown says
I can't wait to open the pages of your book! I love your work! Your photography and design work are amazing! Congrats from the bottom of my heart! Way to go Courtney!
@magsjag
Courtney says
Maggie!!! I appreciate your always thoughtful and kind words- thank you so much!! 🙂
Anonymous says
Much deserved congratulations. I cannot wait to see the finished book.
Best, Debbie
Courtney says
Thank you Debbie!
Kathy says
Oh man, I'm already drooling just thinking about a whole book to look at!!! I love your posts and cannot wait to see what you put together! Best of luck on this marvelous project!!
Courtney says
Aww thank you Kathy!! xo
Rhonda says
A very much deserve congratulations Courtney! How exciting! Your style is so beautiful and you always share how you went about achieving your "style". That is why you are adored.
Courtney says
Thank you for your sweet note and congratulations Rhonda- I appreciate it!!
Parsimonious Perfection says
So well deserved!! Happiest congratulations, Courtney! Brava!!!!
Courtney says
Thank you!!!! 🙂
Jessica@fourgenerationsoneroof says
Yippy!!! So happy and excited to see it !
Courtney says
Thanks so much Jess!! Sending big loves and hugs your way- I hope you are doing well!
Anonymous says
CONGRATULATIONS!!! Excited to purchase book.
Courtney says
Thank you!!
Nick McCullough says
This is amazing news and so excited to order a copy in 2018! You have beautifully edited style and talented eye, I am sure each page will be filled with intoxicating images!!
-Allison
Courtney says
Thank you so very much Allison! I am excited to get everything together!
Unknown says
Congratulations Courtney. It will definitely be a great seller. We've all been inspired by your beautiful styling and photography and so thrilled that we can now have it sitting on our coffee table. Can't wait to order it.
Courtney says
You are so sweet Mary!! You always have something kind to say and I appreciate that so much! Thank you!!
Anonymous says
Yay!!!! I can't wait to read it!!!
Courtney says
Thank you!!!
Anonymous says
So happy and excited for you, Courtney. Your Joy is beaming.
Kindly, Christie
Courtney says
Blushing over here- thanks so much Christie!! I am just a *wee* bit excited 🙂
MJ says
Congratulations! I can't wait till it's out !
Courtney says
Thank you MJ!!!
Diane says
Congratulations Courtney! I'm so happy for you! You are truly an inspiration and I'm glad that your dreams are coming true!
Courtney says
Thank you so much Diane!!
Ashley says
SO excited for you!!!! And thrilled to now call you a friend. I can't wait to get my hands on this one and know you will KILL IT! HUGS and LOVE and safe travels!!!
Courtney says
Ashley-You are the sweetest!!!! I am SO glad to have a chance to spend some time with you at Haven!! You guys seriously feel like friends I have known for years- just love your hearts. I am so looking forward to staying in touch!! xo
Trish Carey says
I have followed you for awhile but when I tried to leave a comment it didn't happen so I'm trying again. I love everything about what you do so I can't wait to have a book I can hold that has everything in one place—woohoo!
Courtney says
Aww thank you so much for coming back to try again Trish!! I appreciate your kind words!! 🙂
BellaMia says
Congratulations!! I can't wait to read it………best wishes on this new adventure!
Courtney says
Thank you so much!!
Anonymous says
Congratulations…I'm looking forward to your book. Your time has come!
Courtney says
Thank you!!
Carol S says
Congratulations Courtney! I adore your blog, your photographs, your wonderful sense of style. I can't wait to pour over your new book. Many blessings, Carol
Courtney says
Thank you for your kind words Carol!! I am excited to share more with all of you soon!!
Krista says
Congratulations, Courtney! Well-deserved honor for you! Your blog is one of my couple favorites that I read. Love your style & photography! It's always so beautiful! Will look forward to when the book comes out!
Yvonne @ StoneGable says
Big, big, big congratulations, Courtney! Your book will be a gorgeous as your blog! So happy for you! I can't wait to get my hands on a copy!
Anonymous says
This is exciting news! Just told my husband and I will be getting my copy in 2018! Can't wait!!!!
Ricki Treleaven says
Very exciting news! You are so talented with your photography and decorating, I know the book will be lovely! I will definitely add it to my collection of home decor books. Our library needs it!
Nancy Yoakum says
I just received my copy last night and was in dream land. I had to look through all the pictures, then I am going to savor reading every page!