A refuge is a place of peace and protection. It’s a place to escape the anxiety and stress of everyday living, and to just “be”. We have found such a place- our kitchen! We not only nourish our bodies, but we energize our souls and refresh our emotions. We have found it to be a place to talk and listen, read and pray, laugh and cry, plan and reflect, cook and eat in our “refuge”.

Our kitchen has welcomed family and friends, and yes, even strangers through the years. And we find such joy in doing so–it is truly “the heart” of our home! Today, we invite you to come in and join us. Please sit back and have a cup of coffee in the room that we share stories of God’s goodness and memories of places visited.  As you see the pictures, you will get even more of a glimpse into our everyday living.  Our “refuge” was previously a two car garage. Eleven years ago we transformed the space into our kitchen and laundry room–very little has changed over the years. Therefore, it is a room full of timeless memories and treasured gifts. Everything– down to the tiniest detail– holds sentimental value and has a story to tell!  But above all, it is our hope that our “refuge ” reflects God’s mercy and his love!

We have, indeed, tasted the goodness of God!

“Oh, taste and see that The Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!”
Psalm 34:8

The eight foot island is perfect for a buffet

Our favorite place to sit, read, pray, and just spend time together.  Spode “Woodland” plates surround the French painting on the wall. The prints above the lamps are from Old Jerusalem, and between the chairs sits a country French chest.

Another view of our sitting area with the patterned hooked rug

Glazed English tiles make up the backsplash and I found the decorative towel at my most frequented stop, TJ Maxx!
(Decorating tip: this is a very easy and inexpensive way to add a pop of color to your kitchen!) 

Handpainted ceiling with chandeliers ordered from Gadsden Lighting

An original oil painting of the Paris Latin Quarter by Gadsden artist, Craig Reynolds, hangs above an antique writing desk

The first place you can find me each morning– my coffee and espresso nook!

Glazed and distressed island cabinetry and limestone tiled floor

Detailed view of maple cabinetry and farmhouse sink

Vietri bowl and Italian canister setAntique hand-painted muffin stand

Double ovens and a warming drawer have become a necessity for holidays and family dinners!  A framed photo of my Mother sits in the space to the right as a reminder of her gift of hospitality and love for cooking.

The antique pine desk is a treasured gift from my friend, Patti.  The juxtaposition of the silver service and the country desk, along with the colorful fruit pattern of the Schumacher fabric and bamboo shades makes for an interesting little corner! The pair of prints (barely visible) are from Tallinn, Estonia.

The four prints were a street find in Paris!

Butch gave me this Italian pottery and plate

A gift from Seth many years ago

“But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing for joy,
and spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may exult in you.”
Psalm 5:11

Linking with Pieced Pastimes, It’s Overflowing, Be Different Act Normal, Silver Pennies , Thoughts From Alice, Creatively Living, Rustic-Refined,Pink When, Mod Vintage Life, The Dedicated House, Dwellings-Heart of Your Home, Savvy Southern Style, French Country Cottage, From My Front Porch To Yours, Stone Gable, Confessions of a Plate Addict, Worthing Court, Between Naps on the Porch, Cedar Hill Farmhouse, A Stroll Thru Life, The Style Sisters, The Charm of Home, The Winthrop Chronicles, Cornerstone Confessions, A Delightsome Life, Imparting Grace, Craftberry Bush, Posed Perfection, Katherines Corner, The Vintage Farmhouse,  My Romantic Home, Chic On A Shoestring Decorating, Rooted In Thyme, Share Your Cup