What Is Your Style?

Phyllis Inspiration 3 Comments

For the most part, we all like to say that we have a “style” or a combination of styles that we prefer. Traditional, French country, romantic, contemporary—the list goes on. This new book, Country Farmhouse by Cindy Smith Cooper, includes a range of different styles from vintage to industrial to classic, and many in between. But however unique each home …

French Butter Cookies

The Cookie That Makes Everyone Happy

Phyllis Inspiration, Lifestyle 15 Comments

It’s time for another reader request topic: French baking recipes! Oh, I just love this subject. French baking sounds fancy, but in reality, is very simple. What makes it special is using the proper techniques combined with high-quality ingredients. The recipe I have chosen to share is perhaps the simplest cookie of all. It is humble in shape and color, …

Taylor Linens Aprons

If We’re Going to Cook, Let’s Wear Something Pretty While Doing It!

Phyllis Inspiration 9 Comments

Aprons are one of those gifts that become more and more special with each use. Just like pages of a cookbook that are stained with cake batter, the more wear and tear an apron gets, the more you know it has done its job and the more memories it holds. For us cooks, each little stain created in between washes …

French Living and Free Shipping!

Phyllis Inspiration 2 Comments

I have always admired the loyalty and sense of community that is present among longtime Victoria readers. Along with the publication itself, we offer Victoria Classics Book Club selections and exclusive seasonal merchandise. The latest special issue of Victoria Classics is called French Cooking & Entertaining. And let me tell you, I was completely enamored when I saw how beautifully …

living room from Classic COttages by Cindy Cooper Smith

Classic Cottages: The Gift That Keeps On Giving

Phyllis Inspiration Leave a Comment

Classic Cottages is a book that inspires me all over again every time I open it. Flipping through, I seem to fold down the corner of a different page than the last time—does anyone else do this? Anyway, be it a corner shelf with collected treasures, a simple floral arrangement, or a flourishing garden, I always discover something beautiful that …