Sidewalk Announcement

Last night we popped into the Grand Opening of our friend Pat Fagerland’s new shop, Forsythea Home and Garden in Astoria.  We drove across the bridge with that destination in mind and had the vague notion that we would also indulge in the Art Walk, downtown Astoria’s traditional Second Saturday event.  We never got beyond Forsythea!

What a fun place – bright, inviting, and choc-a-block full of your heart’s desire, from furniture and throw pillows to candles and pottery.  And art!  Colorful, whimsical paintings cover the walls and grace the tables.  Paintings by Pat (finally! a place for all her fabulous crows and flowers and… everything!) and Miki’ala Souza; tiles and pottery by Reneé O’Connor; jewelry by Jeannie Snyder.

Forsythea Wall

I was amazed to learn from one of the shoppers that the attractive garden chairs – reminiscent  (but not half so ponderous looking) of Adirondack chairs – were made by Pat’s husband Erik!  And, when the shop owner, herself, had a minute, she showed us some other surprises.  Things are more than they seem at Forsythea!

Rowboat Coffee Table

For instance, the upended miniature rowboat used as a display case against one wall is actually a coffee table!!  Who knew?  Pat said it comes with a stand and a removable glass top.  Like our coffee table (that took me years to find), the boat table can display treasures while it serves a functional purpose!

Forsythea Display

Many of the items are by regional artists and craftsmen.  But no matter their origin, they all reflect Pat’s discerning eye and love of flair and color.  We’ve always teased her about being the “quintessential shopper” – she is definitely a go-to person if you have a question about what to get or where to get it.  And now she’s providing the ‘where’ right in downtown Astoria at Forsythea!

The address is 260 10^th Street between Marine and Commercial.  The welcoming banner and sandwich board outside will steer you in the right direction.  Open Thursday through Monday, 11:00 to 5:30.  I’m definitely of two minds that it’s not closer to Oysterville because the temptations are irresistible.  Way to go, Pat!