Sundays at the Chateau: INTERVIEW WITH SELMAR!!!

Everyone at the chateau is excitingly preparing for the creation of the Christmas Advent Calendar 2020, which will be a short video every day from the 1st December until the 25th, showing how we prepare for Christmas at Lalande!
So, as I'm busy filming, my patrons kindly gave me permission to release one of my most popular Patreon videos for you all to enjoy - the Interview with Selmar! This was filmed in July, and gives fascinating insights into the character and artistry of this gentle soul...
This video also gives you an idea of what my weekly Patreon exclusives are like, as you can see from this one I interview the various colourful characters at the chateau, but also give little sneak previews (in this case footage of my mother receiving the new mower before it was seen on the main Chateau Diaries). I also make Q&A videos to answer questions from my Patrons, and have recently started giving extra scenes 'from the cutting room floor'!
To discover more about Selmar, check out his KZbin channel:
/ theneonjudgement
It will give you a very different, gentle glimpse into life at Lalande and in this area.
Escape to the chateau with ’The Chateau Diaries’ 🏰
In 'Sundays at the Chateau', chatelaine Stephanie answers all your questions about life in the 16th century Chateau de Lalande, in the heart of rural France ❤️
A very special thank you to all of you who have become Patrons of the Chateau de Lalande. You have made The Chateau Diaries one of the top 500 Patreon accounts in the world, and have transformed not only out lives here, but the future of this beautiful chateau! I’m overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity. On behalf of this beautiful chateau that will continue to survive and flourish because of you, thank you!!!
If you're interested in become a Patron of The Chateau Diaries, click here: / thechateaudiaries

[@barbarahoughton849]

Selmar has a kind of magic about him.

[@CherylSimser]

He truly does. What a lovely, lovely man!

[@FunkyBear2]

a very interesting interview hey :-)

[@amyschneidhorst1384]

That inner creative and spiritual spark. . .

[@jandobson5441]

Semar speaks of “working with his hands” but he also has a very engaged brain and a great heart

[@pattiodoherty2673]

I knew that Selmar was a great artist in everthing he touches.May he stay in the magic of Lalande forever!

[@johnwilson1163]

I met many Dutch people while in my late teens/early twenties as a serving airman in the mid 70's and found them charming & friendly. Selmar is an exemplary man of many talents and truly a great credit to both himself and his country. We need more people like him in this world today. I also think La Lande must have some kind of magic because it seems to draw such lovely people to it. Best wishes.

[@nata3467]

Of course Selmar helped someone who was bullied. He is a treasure and so glad this popped up.

[@teedee3834]

Selmar is a true renaissance man.

[@susanbender2953]

Leonardo da Vinci

[@thirdonetoo1212]

Stephanie, you have such excellent interviewing skills: you know when to talk and when to be silent to draw out more. And Selmar, thank you for your openness. I’m looking forward to the next 10 years.

[@27Spiritgirl]

I agree - she's a wonderful interviewer. I think she could have her own television program!!

[@chasethecat3839]

@@27Spiritgirl yes but then....wd may lose her. I truly think she could very easily have a show on the history Channel.

[@lindaf4103]

Chase Thecat I agree, we wish everything for her but that means this sort of beauty may be lost. As Stephanie said to Selmar, what a parent wants for the child may not be the best for that child. I am not suggesting there is anything child like about Stephanie but perhaps I would be holding her back to keep the beauty of this blog safe.

[@endeavouringit]

@@27Spiritgirl yes I agree, a great voice, easy to listen to, and well spoken

[@endeavouringit]

@@chasethecat3839 great idea !

[@glyndwrgardens3318]

Who couldn’t see them self as a friend of Selmar ? He just seems like such a cool-chill guy that would be great to hang out with.

[@endeavouringit]

Yes, I'd love a beer with Selmar

[@jasperdogification]

Where is the Gigolo hiding

[@carolem6354]

Selmar is such a gift to LaLande.

[@janeblandford852]

Salmar is such a beautiful treasure to those around him. His gentle spirit and joy is wonderful and do hope that he will always be apart of Lalonde. He has become an integral part of this amazing home and is the perfect person to repair and build all that is needed there. He is a perfect fit. I also enjoy how he is a "Dr. Doolittle" to all the animals. He is such a gift to all!! Bless you Salmar!!

[@deanneferguson4494]

Such a lovely, gentle man. He is a great asset to the Lalonde community & future. Thanks for sharing

[@Alice-po7tc]

As if I couldn’t like Selmar anymore. He’s so kind!

[@juliefields594]

What a great couple they would make

[@lindacamp6229]

I really enjoyed this interview with Selmar. He is such a creative person -very sweet and gentle but powerful as he mentions. I see him as very much an integral part of the La Lande family now. cheers to you all!

[@loripatrick2376]

THANK YOU to all the OUTSTANDING LALANDE PATRONS who graciously allowed us all to enjoy this video. It was amazing!!!! TY all,

[@t.s.507]

Selmar is the real deal. Such a talented, sincere, creative and caring person. And the rubber duckies and toilet in the background are hilarious!

[@fjmarcliff1390]

I don't have an issue with some of the patron money going to a salary, at the end of the day her work contributes to the revenue for the Chateau.

[@AndersBu]

...cashflow during covid is something we all have to get well over. It is difficult times, but you, Stephanie, your laughs and smile keeps the mood up for so many! Thank you ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@mcbash]

If I remember correctly Nattie’s salary is not paid with Patron money as that can only be used for the restauration of the Chateau.

[@innab123]

@@mcbash Yeah, I think initially Patreon money was used for Nati’s salary but the accountants decided it was best to keep the restoration accounts and the b&b accounts separate for tax purposes. I think some youtube ad revenue might be used for her salary now.

[@terrysmithwade6658]

@@mcbash Did you watch the beginning of this Vlog?

[@moiragoldsmith7052]

Thank you to the Patreons for allowing us to watch this. I laughed and teared up in all the right places. God bless your Parents Selmar.... they did a grand job. xxxx

[@rhondathomas7952]

Our pleasure. How could we not!!! 💙💙💙

[@chrissih4046]

@@rhondathomas7952 🙏🏽

[@pamelaruege7803]

I did put a comment in the other string but I am not sure you will see it. I thank you very much for allowing us to see the interview of Selmar. I cannot afford to be a patron and was so very disappointed I could not see this interview of the wonderfully kind and talented Selmar. I have been watching this channel since the beginning of the lockdown and really it was such a wonderful thing to help me get through the first scary days and weeks of the covid lockdown. thank you so very much for all the work you have done for making these videos.

[@patricianathan4676]

Totally agree, I'm also unable to be a patron, but have subscribed and absolutely love the pace of life ( not accounting for Mummy on the mower) it's so inspiring and the harmony between all the beautiful people drawn to you and LaLande. May Selma the guardian of the peacocks and forest be there always. Thank you so much Stephanie for such a super vlog. WCL

[@susanbender2953]

Me too.

[@mimibatman2787]

I didn't know that it was possible, but I like Selmar even more than I did before this interview.

[@anitasujiivana4553]

This was PERFECT! Always wanted to know more about Selmar. What a 💝 he is!!! Thank you for choosing this.

[@garnetj69]

Selmar is such a kind, honourable, gentle beautiful human being!! Thanks for sharing this interview with us.

[@scpmdt]

This man the charming Selmar is so talented and valuable and is the ideal person for Lalande. He is a godsend. His gentleness shines through all the way. Oh my goodness he is a man of many talents. May he always be at Lalande and work his magic on the place. It’s so touching that he talks about his parents & how they gently tried to veer him in the right direction. One can’t help but love the man. Stephanie you are the right person for Lalande. You are also a godsend for Lalande. Your charm , intelligence and love for all things good attracts all the right people. God bless you & with you at the helm Lalande will come back to life & draw the right people to Lalande. May you never change as we love you as you are.

[@fgsdgdfgsgfsd2068]

Yay, would love to know more about Selmar. He is such an intriguing character, very deep and sensitive, a lovely person.

[@endeavouringit]

Well stated Priscilla !

[@scpmdt]

@@endeavouringit thank you mate

[@endeavouringit]

@@scpmdt you're welcome

[@tydanum]

What a lovely man Selma is, I would be very proud to call him a friend, what a privilege it would be to know him 💕

[@bredaswitzer1948]

What great parents Selmar had especially his mum for encouraging him to take the path he was destined to take and so multi talented, his portraits are fab,😊🌻♥️

[@christophemeathrel508]

Intaglio character, more depth than a Persian rug. A wonderful mix of experiences produced this great guy.

[@pwwilb]

Selmar is such a rare gem and a multifaceted one at that. His talents & charm never cease to amaze me. This was a wonderful interview. Thank you for letting us non patreons get to know Selmar just a little better.

[@MsRiverdee]

Selmar is such a beautiful and sensitive person, you are so lucky to have him Stephanie!

[@mlady204103]

Selmar's greatest strength and weakness explains a lot.

[@kristinedunkleman8767]

What a Gentle Giant Selmar is. So soft spoken and such a big laugh. Love watching you all. You all enjoy each others company. I must say I always have a smile when I watch you. Thank you during this horrible year. We in the US are so glad you are helping us get through the lock downs we are going through again.

[@emotions99]

"I thought it was about my dancing" Hahaha! Love you and your laugh, Selmar!!!

[@tiffytattoo2450]

I don't know a single KZbinr, who works so hard like Stephanie. 4 videos a week, no break, no drama. This is truly remarkable! This year was a breakthrough for Lalande, and I can't wait to see you reach the 100.000 follower mark! ♡

[@paranihiaanaru4414]

The gardener is definitely part of renovating the chateau - look how he has (1) revived the gardens (2) worked to make the fountain beautiful (3) re-worked the gardens surrounding the fountain (4) worked on the gravel in front of the chateau (5) removed trees and bushes from the lakefront. If you are thinking merely of renovating the building, then think how it would look if all this 'gardening' work were left undone - most unattractive and ultimately cause damage to the building itself, for example, neglecting the driveway/pathway and entrance to the chateau. I know that work on the terrace is on the schedule, that would involve the gardener in many ways

[@nebula402]

My thoughts exactly! Dan is a crucial part of the chateau’s renovation.

[@kristys6640]

The only question left is how Selmar met Diesel.

[@jillianlubetkin5538]

I would like to know the answer to that one, too!

[@lesasmith427]

@Kathryn Stelzer Ruby I believe was a stray and simply showed up. Selmar feeds the other animals (sheep/peacocks) and Ruby took to him. No surprise there. Lol There is a video of Ruby’s arrival, not sure which one it is though.

[@carolweaver3269]

@Kathryn Stelzer Ruby was a stray and came along not too long ago, and seemed to need a home, and she stayed as Selmar and Isabelle fed her and helped her with all needs and still took care of her. She has even (during Summer months) laid on her own pillow like Diesal, as he had one next to Rosie, and they would both rest outside the camper.

[@franceshnni7380]

yehey Selmar will stay longer…can’t imagine now the chateau without him

[@gillwhelan8388]

I could listen to Selmar laughing all day.❤💕💞

[@OnlyLoveCan38]

The wonderful Selmar and the glorious Stephanie together and this has been the most interesting of the vlogs. I think God sent you Selmar to be Lalande and to us.

[@Engelhafen]

So many religious traditions mention strangers and how important they are in our lives. This is a cool story.

[@Motherhubbard170]

Selmar says he is strong willed, but the gentleman in him over rules it as we have never seen it

[@leonorahogarth3070]

Selmar...a wonderful human being!

[@catherinebyrne1796]

Thank you stephanie for this interview Selmar is a true gentleman..

[@SHYsArt]

I couldn't agree more with Selmar. I, too, am a bull (Taurus) and our power is great when under control, :) hugs Selmar.

[@victoriataylor10]

Of all the people at Lalande I would chose to spend time with Selmar - his voice, the way he moves his hands, his laugh are all so sincere and when he tangoes - my knees go weak!! Love you Selmar and happy that you have found your ideal place to spend your life. Your are truly a beautiful man. From Christchurch New Zealand

[@roberthossen8354]

I'm Dutch as well. However.... we're not all of us as handy as Selmar is. Most of us though are as kind as him 😉

[@chasethecat3839]

I would love it there as many Americans are not kind...they seem to have a chip on their shoulder or something. I feel as if I am an outsider; however, I am NE. If u go south, people are kinder.

[@Marykguise]

True about the Dutch being very kind. I’m an American and was blessed to live in Haarlem for 6 months and loved the people and the country!!💗

[@roberthossen8354]

Most of us are kind. Some can be blunt and too direct. 😉

[@nicolethijs5428]

This was so nice to see! I think the life story of ordinary people is far more interesting then most celebraties.

[@chasethecat3839]

Many of the celebrities have contacts who help them be known (whether they admit it or not) or relatives before them. The folks at Lalonde are self made

[@EL90291]

Best answer ....in 10 years time, I hope to still in here...

[@mu77]

I enjoyed this interview with Selmar. I nearly died laughing at his disco dancing commando style!

[@gypsyvanneraddict]

They are just so lovely together - happy they are friends.

[@margaretreed7790]

Loved getting to know Selma’s better. So glad he made it to La Lande just in time.

[@michellematthews8332]

All the inhabitants of the Chateau bring their unique qualities & skills, making it so special 💞

[@sharingthebounty2488]

Excellent interview....he's such a wonderful spirit...so full of light! You are SO very blessed to have him in your space. You can learn a lot from his inherent knowledge. Lucky you!

[@kimberlynewsom9876]

Thank you to your kind patrons for allowing you to release this to us!!! I so wanted to see this interview. This was wonderful. Thank you again patrons for your generosity and kindness!!

[@barbarap6851]

Aww, Selmar...what a wonderful person...thank you for the interview

[@MsLinda165]

Thanks so much for this treat. Selmar was meant to be there, and what a wonderful setting too.

[@lorryann2921]

That was a wonderful interview with Selma,such a kind person

[@barbararodgers3101]

This was a great interview. I remember watching the video back in the Spring when Selmar arrived. You and your Mom had gone into lock down and Selmar and Diesel arrived in his camper. Selmar is so talented and creative. He is a very special person and a dear soul. Thank you.

[@davidblackmore3534]

What a great interview, very enjoyable. Selmar you remind me so much of myself when I was much younger. I also gain pleasure from helping those less fortunate than myself and being a voice for animals that are abused or homeless. You're a great guy.

[@selmarduinofficial]

Thank you for your comments. That is wat life is about helping eachother and being a voice for natur and animals. Whe are all the same and believe in the same thing Love & Peace for all. X

[@Randy8923]

Enjoyed. Selmar is wonderful, interesting and a great addition to LaLande.

[@janetmackinnon3411]

What beautiful hands Selmar has!

[@barbaralemere5183]

Selmar, I loved your portfolio. Your work has a graphic quality to it that is very nice

[@MW25niper]

For some reason I thought he had been there much longer. He’s a delightful addition!

[@Heather11268]

Having Dan should be considered renovations, he is always improving the outside of the Chateau.

[@michellezevenaar]

He's definitely been amazing! I like the new area around the fountain! And getting new gravel has made a huge difference too!

[@sandracole2578]

He is now and is paid from the Patreon account.

[@michellezevenaar]

@@sandracole2578 yes he's a 'local' they hired with money from patreon. He's definitely done a great job and has definitely earned his salary!

[@sandracole2578]

@@michellezevenaar Dan is soooo hard working. Worth his weight in gold that man is.

[@secnew2852]

Yes, I really enjoyed getting to know Salmar a little bit more. Salmar, thank you so much for sharing a little part of you. Stay well.

[@rebphil1254]

Thanks for showing this to us. I really enjoy the interview and getting to know everyone’s special talents and joys in life.

[@leonieblah8806]

Selmar is so fabulous. Really interesting interview

[@metropcs7560]

Thank you so much, Selmar would keep working and quiet as a mouse sometimes, now I understand. Great man!!!

[@brianashton1428]

(Moira Ashton) What a brilliant interview- I thoroughly enjoyed it, and loved little Deisel trying to dig through the floor!! 💓💗🥰

[@janetcorey5102]

I loved the interview with Selma. He’s a man of many talents! I really love his wild hair, stylish dress code and especially that laugh!

[@patdowney4984]

Your interview with Selmar was fantastic.he has had a very full life and very talented x

[@cathyhatfield5340]

Selmar is a very interesting man. I like his personality and that he laughs a lot .You art lucky to have him there!👍😊❤️

[@lilarhixiel5505]

Mummy had a ball!!! I love it! She sat on that seat like it was a throne! Ha ha 👸👑

[@patriciaatkinson2435]

I also cannot ( sadly) afford to become a patron. However I do watch the advertisements (with gritted teeth) in order that you might benefit in a small way. The variety and charm of your vlogs is fascinating - as is the chateau's wonderful Selmar.

[@maryannknox7158]

Selmar We Love You xoxo 💋

[@dawnyockey1475]

Well Selmar, I’ve worked with all men and all women. Your quote that your strength is also your weakness might say it all, balance!

[@gillianrussel2444]

What an excellent choice of video Stephanie! So pleased to have learned a little more about Selmar...when you made this interview just for patrons, I was disappointed, so I'm delighted you decided to release it 💖 thank you....What a fascinating & magical person Selmar is...you definitely have a special treasure in him...His title Mystique is so fitting 💖💫💜😁 xx

[@kathyrogers1703]

I have always liked Selmar. Now I like him even better!

[@solotraveller888]

Stephanie’s notebook is matching Selmar’s shirt. 🥰

[@linedallaire9631]

Ahhhhh so nice too see Selamr...what anice person. Lalande so lucky to have him :)

[@kiethee]

Hi Stephanie loved this vlog Very interesting to see selma another side to him what lovely painting definitely like your dads paintings I think when you are a artist it shines through to his work at the chateau every detail with a lot of thought and study’s every piece that he does very creative Selma should definitely stay at the chateau it is his happy place and he seems at peace he’s definitely part of the team and he’s so good with the animals

[@monikastuckey8737]

Great interview! Love that Diesel was nearby!

[@maureen14]

I would love to see Selmar have his own little private Cottage near his Workshop on the property!

[@stephaniemedina1848]

Wonderful interview you are both charming and work so well together 🐱🌹🌷🌈🌞🐥

[@marylouisefox-wilhelm4367]

What a sweet, talented and fascinating man. I have watched your videos from the very beginning starting a couple of years ago, so I saw Selmar on first day of arrival. He has always seemed so quiet, industrious and nice, but what a multifaceted man is he. How fortunate you are to have him there with you at LeLande. Greetings from small town (1800 pop.) Inola Oklahoma USA.

[@Fannypants-fh8wo]

I love Selmar so much!!! What a vulnerable, optimistic, truthful interview. Such an inspiration. Love to all⚪️🤍🕊

[@kerryowen-holmes3719]

I’m so so pleased that Salmar is planning to stay on at the chateau ! He has so much talent and will make such a difference to all the people who come to the chateau and to the chateau itself! This will be a labour of love for him using his expertise there😊. 🇦🇺

[@brendacard1447]

I loved watching it the second time as much as I did the first. Selmar is a gem 💎

[@sharoncole8249]

I hope selmar lives at the chateau for the rest of his life because the chateau needs someone to love her same has stephanie and the rest of the team doses xxxxx

[@ladyvalhalla7154]

Life goes on tho..

[@debralpateart8862]

You chose a excellent vlog for today! I hadn't seen it before and it was wonderful to listen to Selmar's heartfelt words. If you film another chat with him it will be a huge hit I'm sure. Selmar, you are a treasure. ❤️

[@elizabethgeyer-green9910]

The mutual respect for each other just shines. Thankyou 🙏

[@bredaswitzer1948]

This should be interesting 😊can't wait👍

[@janiceshannon6318]

What a wonderful beautiful man, I love that he found La Lande,xx

[@zulemaalamo4863]

Stephanie you have such wonderful communication skills , you explain everything you do for the sake of all inquisitive minds. You are such a blessing to watch.

[@eileenworth7862]

Two beautiful people, inside and out.

[@mettefrimand2825]

You are such a beautiful soul Selma thank you Stefanie and Selma to share selma’s personality with us🙏🏻❤️

[@roberthossen8354]

You do us Dutch proud, Selmar!!!

[@karinbergman1646]

Wonderful idea to rebroadcast interviews. I wish you would do for all interviews! Selmar is such a perfect addition to the LaLande personages. What a unique, talented, and wise good souled person💗. Diesel's human💗. 🙏🏻💗⚜️💗⚜️💗🙏🏻

[@nicolecouture4514]

Great interview. Selmar is such a beautiful soul. Keep safe everyone!

[@ttbko]

Of course Selmar was an engineer! They are, in my experience, super creative and inventive. My lovely partner used to build helicopter engines in this same way. Now he can turn his hand to anything.... much like Selmar

[@juliasavill9768]

If only there were more Selmar’s in this world . I had to giggle when the camera panned out and Stephanie is sitting next to the loo !

[@sharronr]

So good to get to know Selmar from his own perspective.

[@lindakirkpatrick6508]

I’ve just now seen this interview …it is one of my favourites yet , as is Selmar . ….and yes , Stephanie you are awesome in your ability to conduct interviews .