Gussied Up

When I go to Milfiori to paint, I turn off Highway 4 at the sign that says Main Street. The little road must have been "main" at one time, but now it simply bumps you through a quiet, well-worn collection of mismatched houses, old fences, and pastures. I turn off Main street onto an even less-noticeable gravel driveway that introduces you to Milfiori and her nearest neighbor, the Douglas Flat schoolhouse. This must have been a daily-used entrance as children walked to school and patrons stopped by the Italian store which sits in front of the farmhouse. Now this narrow drive lures and leads guests into the center of the Milfiori property. There, at the heart of it all, is a gracefully-aged barn, regal and silent, providing the backdrop for all that takes place at the farm. Despite its importance, my attention is captivated by the barn's unassuming adornment of soft pink old roses. Ageless beauty!