My Great, Great Uncle: Walt Whitman
Sometimes when I enter the home of a friend or acquaintance, I wonder how exactly their abode came to look so put-together, so lovely.
It’s quite pleasurable to learn of the journey of each piece of furniture or home decor accessory before it became a cherished fixture in someone’s home.
My mom loves to adorn her home with framed images of favorite family members and beloved ancestors. Old black and white photos titivate the walls and create a nostalgic environment.
Coincidentally, my father loves to showcase timeworn photographs as well. While hosting friends one afternoon, my mother was explaining who each relative was when she paused over the framed image of a bearded man in a large-brimmed hat.
She narrowed her eyes, trying to recall who this relative was, “I am not sure who this is; he’s not on my side of the family. I believe it is Jeff’s great uncle. Is that right?”
My father answered prosaically, “No, he came with the frame, and I liked him.”
Upon closer inspection, one could clearly discern the image was of the famed poet Walt Whitman.
It was then that I discovered we all have differing intentions when bringing diverse items into our homes and varied inspirations and motivations when creating a unique and comfortable space.
I love the small details that can be found high on a shelf or tucked away in the corner of a well-decorated home. An unusual vintage clock, a handsome, well-weathered furnishing, an antique with a meandering history, these pieces add interest and truly make a house a home.
Yearbook Studio in Forest Park
There is a new home shop and design studio opening this weekend, Yearbook in Forest Park (7316 W. Madison Street). The shop is situated in the space where Chix with Stix was previously located.
The shop features a blend of distinctive vintage items from different eras combined with interesting contemporary pieces. Yearbook promised to be an eclectic mix of objects working together harmoniously, demonstrating that great design is seamless in both time and excellence.
The storefront has undergone quite a transformation. People who shopped and knitted at Chix with Stix won’t recognize it as the same space!
Owners Jef Anderson and Noel Eberline are the dynamic duo bringing us Yearbook. They’re excited to offer something new to Oak Park, Forest Park, and River Forest.
They share, “There’s nothing like it in the surrounding area, and it almost seems that the area is yearning for it! Yearbook is not just about having an interesting store; we desire to create an engaging experience.”
Yearbook will be a great addition to Madison Street, along with all of the other great shops and restaurants in the area.
Join Jef and Noel on Saturday, September 10th at 10am for a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor Calderone at 7316 W. Madison Street.
For more information, call 708.366.1920. You can read more about the shop and the merchandise and services offered on their facebook page at www.facebook.com/yearbookstudios.
