Stucco Finish

Little by little we are getting the stucco finished on the castle, the back side of the arches is now complete as well as the side walls and dormers. The back turret is almost complete with just 3 more dormers to complete, then on to the back wall.

After applying this fibrous stucco and smoothing it, just before it dries, there is a narrow window in which you can put on the veining. Then you must smear and blend it in to a look of real rock.

It dries quickly so you must work very fast, 2 bags takes a little less than 2 hours to put on for 2 people. Don't be too picky and remember rocks have varying textures and veins.

Natural Beauty

Kari & Chad wanted the unusual. So they placed their arch away from the castle. That way she could exit the chateau unseen by her guests, and walk down the aisle, with nature as her backdrop. It worked beautifully.

Then they all moved inside for the reception, where guests partied until midnight.

So many choices with a castle wedding.

New Suite

Fun, isn't it! If you can't find what you want (and can afford) at the store, create your own.

That's exactly what we did with the headboard. There are still a few finishing touches to make it the best we can do, but for most purposes this small suite is elegant and ready for guests.

What do you think for it's name? Antoinette? Grace? Belle?

The Tiepolo theme started this room out, but as the room progressed it took on a life of it's own and so Tiepolo will have to go somewhere else.

Each room creates a statement with which you are enveloped in that dream. Come visit the Chateau and see whats new.

Changing Clouds of Love

Aren't the skies phenomenal in Missouri? They change so often and the cloud formations go from turbulent to wispy stratus with my favorite the massive cumulus. The only surety here in the weather is that it will change.

And so do relationships, often on a daily basis. The constant, like the sky and heavens above is the certain love one feels for another. That backdrop should not change, but be as eternal as the heavens above. This only happens when we put away our own selfish behaviors. I am as guilty as the next at not doing it all the time. The only redeeming quality any of us can have is that we are working on that betterment. Then trust in the Lords perfect love for we, who are so unworthy.

Yesterday Bob and Britt worked more on the stucco... Wouldn't you guess it's raining again, so that puts the completion of that off till better weather.

Since Bob made the trebuchets (catapults) for the schools to sling water balloons we have been thinking of other fun activities which children could do. Medieval in nature plus ones that will not hurt another. Any ideas?

Married at Last

Analisa and Kenny were radiant after their vows. Together at the romantic couples table they watched over their guest like Royalty.

May they ever enjoy the peace and love that comes through their union. Through all the trial leading up to the wedding they maintained level heads. Although those heads were elevated into the clouds!

Tapestry to Mural

Recreating another art work has it's limitations especially if you are working in different mediums. This mural was taken from a tapestry commissioned by Cardinal Wolsey when he was still popular in the court of Henry the VIII.

A tapestry has a woven texture, which I am not quick enough to recreate in paint. So instead I substituted his family crest for a Palmer crest and created a more fluid painting than a woven tapestry. With it, you get the effect without the expense or expertise of a woven tapestry.

Have fun with the art. Dont' be too critical. Enjoy

Bridemaid Remembered

Finally, the painting (recreation of the tapestry made for Cardinal Woolsey at Hampton Court) in the brides maid room is started!

This month Britt and I finished the clouds peering through the rafters of the chapel. We'll probably go back next year and add detail and more contrast. But with us reaching the tip of the ceiling at 42 feet, while balancing atop a swaying lift atop a ladder, I'm glad to have this much completed.

The floors in the brides room are acid stained and sealed Britt is working with Bob on the finish of the steps sweeping up in the entry.

Each day a new project. Each day a little more completed.