A Good Life Lived....

We have been silent for too many months and we apologize. It's not that we haven't been thinking vintage—or of our readers. But we do have an explanation, a sad one.

Over the past four years, as we have blogged about our book, as well as Alison's store, Hooti Couture, and particular vintage favorites (like Koret handbags), it was difficult not to mention our mom, Jacqueline Houtte (see one of our earliest posts, from March 2005, The Mother of It All). Her fashion sense and personal style had inspired all her daughters (and granddaughters) for decades, and well into her 80s, she remained the center of our lives, especially after our father died in 2008. Well, we were spoiled by having both our parents live such long lives, and now we are learning how to live without them. Mom died on May 16, at 85, after a short but fiesty battle with lymphoma, and we are doing what she and Dad would want us to do...moving forward, enjoying life, savoring family, friends and memories. Some days it is harder than others, but we are coping. And we promise, you have not heard the last from us.

Comments

[Sandra Hipley]

Dear Allison and Melissa,

I am sorry about the loss of your beloved Mother. The time that we have with are loved ones is priceless. I do hope that as you continue on, you will always include your Mom and Dad in your articles on this website. I found your wonderful book, at my Moms condo in Daytona Beach Florida. It was sitting on the table that the tenents use to give away things they dont need anymore. How wonderful it was for me to recieve such a lovely book. All I can say is your whole life came alive through those pages, and I couldnt help but flash back into my life and relate to a lot of your shopping experiances. God Bless you and your family and thank you for allowing me to be a part of it.

Yours in Christ,

Sandra Hipley
Winter Park Florida

[Michelle O'Donnel]

Hi Alison and Melissa

Sorry to read about your mother passing away.

I read your lovely book - it was a fab gift from my best friend Ems. I have a consignment store, well two actually, little shops, here in Melbourne, Australia. Girl, I related to your story! It's the best job, even if it's not a good day. Long live resale!

All the best
Michelle O'Donnell
www.muffclothing.com.au

[helyn knott]

dear allison,i'm so sorry to hear of the passing of both of your parents,you don't know me but i just finished your book alligators..i just adore you and your writing has so inspired me just to go back down memory lane...i'm 46 now but got into vintage when i was about 18 and now i see my 14 year old who is just a beautiful young girl has picked up where i left off...it's so cute because she now goes into my jewelry box and wears my memories,God bless you,i would like to please send you a gift that was a present to me from my husbands grandma..an old pair of gloves..very petite,very dainty but i would like you to have them if you will...you could put them in shop or just keep them..whatever you choose i would be honored to just pass them along...sincerly, helyn may knott

[Jo]

Dear Alison and Melissa,
I read your book not long after it came out and enjoyed it tremendously but have not yet had the chance to visit Hootie Couture (but I will).
I just wanted to let you know how sorry I am about the news of your mom's passing. My own mom is also in her 80's but is increasingly fragile. It's thanks to her thrifty ways that my sister, daughter, and I can share many lovely clothes, accessories, and jewelry that she carefully kept over the years. We're very lucky to still have both parents living and we treasure each day with them. My condolences to you and your families.
jo

[Lucy Burchell]

Hi!

Well I've just come back from holiday and my first (of three) reads was your FANTASTIC book!! I've just got home wanting more I researched on the web and found hooticouture.com and how excited I am!!! Although to read about your lovely Mum is so sad, you portrayed her so so well in your book and it's such a shame to hear that her inspirational self has passed on. I am sorry to all of your family.

I am a London fabric retailer and loved your book and am currently loving your website. Please keep up the good work and next time I'm in the States I am paying a visit!!

Love,
Lucy xx

[Mary Elizabeth Land]

I was missing your posts, and then was particularly sorry to see the sad reason. Your book, your shop, and your website have all provided fun, joyful ways to spend time. I know your mother must have been very proud of all your achievements!

Mary Elizabeth
Abbeville, SC

[Lisa]

I'm so sorry to hear about your mom. I wondered why you were so quiet. I will think of her (and you) every time I see a B.H. Wragge pattern.