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…
inside that envelope was a book contract from
Gibbs Smith
for
my book.
my book.
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.
The book is planned for release in summer 2018
and
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.
I can't wait to have a copy of it. Congratulations Courtney!
Thank you so much DeAnna!!
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
I am thrilled for you! I can't wait to get a copy!
Thank you Penny!!!
All I am going to say is…it's about time. Can't wait. xxoo
Thank you Barbara!! Waiting to get a hold of your book soon too! xo
BIG, HUGE CONGRATULATIONS !!!
What wonderful news, Courtney.
xx's
Thanks so much Marsha. I appreciate it!
Congratulations! I can't wait to see it!
Me too!!! 🙂 Thank you Sunny!
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 ????????
Aww thank you Barbara! You are always so kind and I appreciate your sweet comments!
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
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!! 🙂
Doing the happy dance for you my friend! Well deserved!!!!
Thanks so much Ruthie!! Hope to see you soon! xo
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.
Thank you Sharon!! 🙂 And yes, Gibbs-Smith is a DREAM publisher – they do such a beautiful job with design books!
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. ♥
Thank you Michele!! You are so kind!!
Congratulations! That is so exciting! You are a beautiful designer and decorator and this is well deserved! Can't wait to see it! xo
Thanks so much Amy! I hope all is well over your way!
I can't wait for it to grace my coffee table, it's going to be beautiful! Congratulations!
Thank you sweet friend!! xo
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
Thank you so much Jamie!! I appreciate that and feel the same about your book! xo
Congratulations Courtney! You have totally earned it — writing a book and having it published is an amazing adventure. Savor every moment of the journey!
Thank you Joan!! xo
Wow, congratulations!!!!!
Thank you Marty!
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!!!!!
You are always so kind Sarah- thank you so much for your sweet words! xo
Congratulations!!! You deserve it!
Thank you Rosemary!
A big congrats, my friend as I know it will be fabulous!!
Aww thank you Kim! I hope to see you at Haven!! xo
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.
Oh decorating your cottage sounds like so much fun- thank you Ahrisha!!
That's really awesome Courtney! Congratulations!
Thanks so much Deanna!
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
Haha! I have been keeping it a secret- but it has been soo hard! Thank you so much for your kind words Kathleen!! xo
TOTAL AWESOMENESS MY FRIEND******SO HAPPY FOR YOU !!! Can't wait to read it & enjoy your beautiful vision of this world
Thank you Cathy!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I knew it was just a matter of time! So exciting Courtney!! Just know it will be more than amazing!
Thanks so much Shirley- you are so sweet!! I hope to see you at Haven!! xo
How truly exciting, wonderful and amazing! Congratulations on your success…so far 🙂 More to come I'm sure. 😀
Thank you so much!
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!!!
Thank you Debra!! I appreciate your kind words!
Follow those dreams! Congratulations!
Yes, indeed!! Thanks Tracey!
Congratulations! That's wonderful news and well deserved.
Thank you!
Congratulations! I just discovered your blog and am so inspired by all you do! Can't wait for the book 🙂
Thank you Sarah Jane!! And welcome- glad you are here!
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!
Such a kind note Sandra. I love the idea that I am helping to scatter beauty and joy- thank you so much!
Dreams really do come true Courtney! Congratulations! Mimi xxx
indeed!!! Thanks Mimi!
Congratulations Courtney! This is such wonderful news and I'm so very happy for you! I can't wait to get my copy.
Thank you Raylene!
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!!!
Aww thank you Elisa- I appreciate it!
Great news and so well deserved! I look forward to buying your book.
Thank you Bonnie!
Congratulations and make sure you give your sister a hug. You should be proud of your perseverance and accomplishments. Love your blog
Indeed!! My sister is seriously the best- she is one of those wise souls! Thanks so much Lola!!
Congratulations. It is sure to be a beautiful book as the blog is so beautiful.
So excited for you and cannot wait for my own copy
Thank you so much!
OMG, how exciting!!!!! I'm so happy for you!!! Congratulations!!!
Thank you!! 🙂
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
Thank you Kathy!! Pooh bear is the best 🙂 See you soon!
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
Thank you Cindy!! xo
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
Thank you so much!
I have been waiting for you to post your exciting news. This is so exciting! Can't imagine how you can even sleep.
Thank you June!! It was so hard for me to not share right away! haha.
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!
Thanks so much Amy!! You are such a sweet friend.
What wonderful news for you ~ so happy for you.
Congratulations !!!
Enjoy every moment. Much love, Rose
Thank you Rose!
Well, it's about time!! 🙂
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!
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
What a kind note Patricia- I so appreciate you taking the time to say hello and for following along! Thank you!!
WOW!! Congratulations ???? I look forward to opening your book soon!
Thank you!
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!!!
It is a lot of work for sure… but so excited to be doing it!! Thanks so much Angelina!
Congratulations! So excited and very happy for you. Can't wait for your book to come out. I know it will be fabulous!
Thank you Donna!! 🙂
Congratulations, Courtney! I am so very happy for you.
Thank you Mary Beth!
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…
Thank you so much Pamela! I am excited!
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
Thanks so much Sheila!! You are so sweet! Hope to see you again soon! xo
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
Aww thank you Judith- so kind of you!
That is so wonderful!!! I can't wait to buy the book, congratulations!
Thank you!
Wow!! What a wonderful dream come true!! Congratulations! Can't wait to buy a copy!
Thanks so much Wendy!
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
Thank you Amanda!!
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?
Oh I think Winnie (and my sister) have wisdom for everything so you never know!! Thanks so much Marisa!!
Huge. A big congratulations! So happy for you. The book will be so beautiful.
Thanks so much Jacqueline!
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.
Author!!! Sounds so real and official!! 🙂 Thanks so much Susan- I appreciate it!!
Congratulations!!
Thank you Chloianna!
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!
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!
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
Maggie!!! I appreciate your always thoughtful and kind words- thank you so much!! 🙂
Much deserved congratulations. I cannot wait to see the finished book.
Best, Debbie
Thank you Debbie!
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!!
Aww thank you Kathy!! xo
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.
Thank you for your sweet note and congratulations Rhonda- I appreciate it!!
So well deserved!! Happiest congratulations, Courtney! Brava!!!!
Thank you!!!! 🙂
Yippy!!! So happy and excited to see it !
Thanks so much Jess!! Sending big loves and hugs your way- I hope you are doing well!
CONGRATULATIONS!!! Excited to purchase book.
Thank you!!
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
Thank you so very much Allison! I am excited to get everything together!
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.
You are so sweet Mary!! You always have something kind to say and I appreciate that so much! Thank you!!
Yay!!!! I can't wait to read it!!!
Thank you!!!
So happy and excited for you, Courtney. Your Joy is beaming.
Kindly, Christie
Blushing over here- thanks so much Christie!! I am just a *wee* bit excited 🙂
Congratulations! I can't wait till it's out !
Thank you MJ!!!
Congratulations Courtney! I'm so happy for you! You are truly an inspiration and I'm glad that your dreams are coming true!
Thank you so much Diane!!
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!!!
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
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!
Aww thank you so much for coming back to try again Trish!! I appreciate your kind words!! 🙂
Congratulations!! I can't wait to read it………best wishes on this new adventure!
Thank you so much!!
Congratulations…I'm looking forward to your book. Your time has come!
Thank you!!
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
Thank you for your kind words Carol!! I am excited to share more with all of you soon!!
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!
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!
This is exciting news! Just told my husband and I will be getting my copy in 2018! Can't wait!!!!
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!
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!