HOME SWEET HOME!

I'm back at the chateau and excited to see our baby peachick (Petit Pois) AND Selmar - who is back in the downstairs loo!!! And Philip & I turn a day of grief into a day of fun...
The Chateau Diaries Episode 232 ✨🏰✨
Escape to the chateau with ’The Chateau Diaries’ 🏰
This channel follows the adventures of chatelaine Stephanie in her French 16th century home, the Chateau de Lalande, in the heart of rural France ❤️
We share our life in this ancient chateau in the heart of the French countryside, and show you the diy, renovations, crafts, cooking and gardening that are needed to bring a home like this to life!
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 400 Patreon accounts in the world, and have transformed not only our 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 becoming a Patron of The Chateau Diaries, click here: / thechateaudiaries

[@tamaliaalisjahbana9354]

I feel sad that Stephanie's father is no longer there. It would have been so nice to have seen him and heard him for he sounds like an extraordinary man: an artist, a man who loved beautiful things, who embraced human creativity and who encouraged his daughter to buy the chateau and told her that when she experienced difficulties with it she must always remind herself "but it was the right thing to do". He must have been such a special man. When I think of the little I know about him and when I look at her dear mummy then I am not in the least surprised that Stephanie is the wonderful person she is. There are many people who have bought a chateau and are doing it up but Stephanie's vlog is special because of her warm, positive, joyful, creative and determined personality. Her chateau is truly alive because it is filled with people that she has drawn to her like a warm fire on a cold winter's day for life can be cold. For all this I think we must also thank her parents who surely had a hand in it by giving Stephanie a good childhood...

[@laurenl5843]

Very well said Tamalia! I couldn't agree more. 👍💜😊🇨🇦

[@def_Derlene]

Beautifully said

[@jennymay4720]

Dan planted the sunflowers as you love yellow Stephanie.They will look nice with the pale blue shutters.

[@myrnahuber5047]

Your chateau looks like a tiny version of paradise!

[@jennifercoughtrie2939]

It never ceases to amaze me how fortunate we are that places like this basilica survived WW2

[@fionamaffeo3838]

Selmar’s laugh is the tonic I needed today ❤️🥰

[@kimphilpin1062]

How moving that you should light candles for two much loved gentlemen in such a beautiful place.

[@deborahdoll4111]

The bees are swarming. This happens when a second queen is in hive. They split to form a new one. They are amazing creatures.

[@barbibutton9619]

So necessary. Without them, well...we are toast with no honey

[@carolinegooder7091]

We also need then for crops. USA still uses pesticides that kill bees.

[@primrosedahlia9466]

I was gonna say the same. It's not a bee hive, but bees swarming waiting for the scout bees to come back and show them where their new home will be.

[@pw4075]

Bless both your father, Stephanie, and your grandfather, Phillip. They live on through your love and fond memories of them.

[@cathymiddleton1242]

Cheers to Philips Grandfather, your Father and my Mummy. My Mummy has been gone 5 years and always when i least expect it....it hits ❤

[@whimsybear6910]

Sweet peas growing up and beginning to frame the window. Love it!!! 😁❤️

[@milmom4281]

Sending love and comfort to Stephanie and Phillip as they remember their loved ones. 🤗

[@trinahayden747]

So happy to see Selmar back…

[@barbibutton9619]

Me too

[@liesavillandre3481]

prayers for your Anniversary's of the passing for your loved ones.

[@maryleepappas2041]

Memory eternal.

[@sassafrasrantypants2026]

I love Selmar’s laugh. It always makes me smile.

[@laurenhpulie9259]

Oh Steph, it really does hit you, unexpectedly, no matter how long your father has passed. 💔💘💞

[@mypioneergirl]

I miss Mummy in the garden:)

[@rpierce7004]

That same thought hit me this vlog also.

[@hatshepsut8329]

I miss her too, but I can understand if she and Percy decide to stay put in South Africa. At their age they deserve to have time together to enjoy their life together. They seem to have a very rich life there, bless their hearts! ♥️

[@shellydsouza8902]

Stephanie thank you for taking us along on your trip today, always filled happiness and optimism no matter what the sentiments are. Great to see Marie’s confidence growing with each time I see her. Marie: Go girl!

[@litsakoutoula3071]

Ι really miss watching work done on the chateau! 😔

[@trustmemysonisadoctor8479]

Agree.

[@carolinegooder7091]

BBC TV program was videotaped so we are waiting for it to come out and then it will go to KZbin. Patrons may be getting sneak peaks.

[@jacquelinereynolds2934]

@@carolinegooder7091 Ch 4 not BBC. Stephanie cannot show any footage of what was filmed until its aired on tv. We are seeing peeks of the entrance hall as that should have been aired in March and wasnt. Patreons wont be seeing anything that was filmed before anyone else. Patreon monies are not used for any tv projects

[@Helenross]

If the sofa is potentionally going in Gerry's apartment it'll have to be a tartan fabric. I think that would look great.

[@inthehouse1960]

So many of my favorite things - history, shopping, eating outside in the evening, friendly bat encounters...and gardening.

[@sheiladoolittle4040]

I’m always happy to see a person who doesn’t panic when they have a close encounter with the wildlife.💖

[@rayandmarythomas4719]

Awesome transformation of the fountain and the whole courtyard! You did outstanding Dan!

[@27Spiritgirl]

Your arrival home was so BEAUTIFUL - how lush the grounds and fountain are becoming ! What a lovely vlog today! xoxo

[@christinagill6332]

I lost my mother nearly 23 years ago and I still miss her so much. I'm so glad she got to meet her first grandaughter before she passed. The very last photo of my mother was taken two days before she passed and shes holding my daughter in her arms. The love and joy on her face is priceless . I'm sure our loved ones watch over us. Your father and Philip's grandfather will be very proud of all the things you both achieve. Sending love to you both xxx

[@christinagill6332]

Thank you

[@sarahburton3110]

My love to you as it’s the first anniversary of losing my dear mother in November. Missing her immensely.

[@christinagill6332]

@@sarahburton3110 so sorry for your loss to, very hard losing one's mother. Sending love your way x

[@XenaBe25]

WHAT? IS MUMMY OK? I must watch this vid now to make sure. Not to minimize Stephanie's father's passing. That was tragic, but he's been gone for some time, and I believe I recall Stephanie saying she still lights a candle on the anniversary of his death, or his birthday, or both. I hope the grieving is not for mummy. She's the mummy I always wished I had.

[@XenaBe25]

And my condolences to all of you. It is difficult to lose a loved one. The silver lining is that you at least were able to be close to your parents for a time. Without airing all of my baggage, I can just say that I was not able to mourn my mother bc we were not close. My relationship with my father could have been close, but my mother ended their relationship when I was little, and I was stuck with her and her series of icky... well nvm. I tried to mourn my dad when he passed bc unlike my mother, I actually liked him. But hearing that he died was like hearing that Heath Ledger or David Bowie died. Tragic in the abstract, but I still felt that I was tryinta force myself to cry over a wonderful stranger, not somebody I'd bonded with in my heart and soul. So don't ever forget how lucky you are to have parents who were close enough and kind enough to mourn. Not every child is able to say that. Peace to all of you.

[@loriwagner6299]

The strangest things remind you of lost loved ones, out of nowhere. All the sudden your face is wet. 💖

[@AndersBu]

AGAIN … again… Stephanie , you are a formidable communicator of history and background knowledge, which we are probably many who miss… super thank you very much, STEPHANIE

[@radicalmama135]

Agreed!! Design, history and the history of design are where Ms. Jarvis shines the very best!

[@chrismaraccini8108]

@@radicalmama135 And I love hearing ALL of it. I think I could watch forever.

[@RhaynePrincess]

Today marks 8 months since I lost my Dad. Sending you love, Stephanie and Philip. 💜

[@sarahburton3110]

💖💖🌸🌸🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@barbibutton9619]

So sorry. Still fresh for you. 🌺. May your memories surround you with comfort

[@CountryLady1752]

The plates and charger look absolutely beautiful together.

[@TallieBear]

This week marked the date my dad passed in 2012 of esophageal cancer. As I looked at the lounge you bought I wished my dad was still here as he was an upholsterer and loved working on antiques. I so regret not learning from him.

[@eileeng2492]

Steph and Phillip are just such great companions. How lucky to find so many good friends.

[@gabschasse600]

Stephanie - I think your father and Philips grandfather would be very proud of you both .....and I'm sure your papa would be happy for your Mum and Percy -and happy for Scotman .💚

[@tiedyedsouthernfried3137]

We can keep ourselves busy and go on with life as before, but just sometimes that loss of our loved one can bring back that sadness as badly as the day they left us. My mom died July 6, 2016 and my dad on July 7, 2017. Too much, too soon. That grief can still attack me at the strangest times, but this time of the year is especially difficult. So I can sympathize with your rush of emotion in the basilica.

[@onedandylion]

Lovely to have a video featuring Lalande - I must admit they are far and away my favourites. There is a glut of chateau videos these days, but even as life gets busier and my KZbin viewing time decreases, I will prioritise watching the adventures and renovations at Chateau de Lalande.

[@kathyvick2710]

I love the chargers you bought to go with the plates. It just elevates the table setting to another level. The dinner looked delicious!!! 😋 Too bad the Limoge factory was closed. I was looking forward to what you saw. Hopefully you can go another time and vlog it then. I’m so sorry for both of your father’s passing. My father passed away in 2009. Even though he was 83, I still miss him, his sense of humor, his creativity, etc. but I have wonderful memories of vacations, camping, giving my boys piggy back rides when they were little, working in his work room with tools, helping me with science in school, and the list goes on. I feel grateful and blessed that I had him for a long time and that my boys got to know him and remember him. 🙏💜🥰

[@AndersBu]

BESUTIFUL TABLE and Maries food !!!

[@beefrench3554]

Chateau de lalande was on the Canadian national news program “CBC the national” tonight ( July 2nd). Lysianne Morris of midland Ontario was supposed to hold her 120 family and friends wedding at lalande but had to cancel because of covid 19 travel restrictions. Instead, her wedding was held at North arm farm in bc with only 4 guest.

[@beefrench3554]

Guests

[@Babylons123456789]

My Dad died very young 36 years ago and my Mum died 3 years ago. Losing very close loved ones is so very difficult 💔 Sending love and hugs to anyone who needs it ❤

[@judithhollands6284]

Tears to laughter, yet another wonderful visit with the lovely Lalanders. Glad you are all fully vaccinated now. Thank you for reminding me we can grieve and still smile when we remember those we loved ❤

[@irenebianchi5088]

I lost my dear dad as well 14 years ago, the pain won't go away, you just live with it

[@janjohansson9495]

I’m happy to be seeing more of life at Lalande.

[@Helen-us1ly]

Stephanie makes history exciting. Love the fuchsia charger plate. All those yellow sunflowers are like a homage to Stephanie. I put on weight just listening to that menu yummy.

[@JanvanOordt]

Really appreciate that you Stephanie do not yell and scream at the bat in your room...your calm and cool demeanor is excellent. Love the language around just how cute the bat was...thank you...from a bat lover

[@twobluestripes]

Thanks to you and Philip for sharing your moment of remembrance in the basilica. I think that the grief of missing someone is something that never leaves us, but that we just get better at carrying it through the highs and lows of life.

[@Tracy_R]

The bees may have outgrown their hive? SELMAR & DIESEL! Love Dan's creativity. Yea! Fountain is on. Beautiful front.

[@Tracy_R]

@Gill Rees thank you Gill Rees. Makes sense of course.

[@metropcs7560]

Oh yes, so sorry for both of losses, I am still praying for my son. Have a blessed weekend!!!

[@shannonmoore4201]

A blessed weekend to you! ☺️

[@terribarr8309]

What a wonderful episode! I know what you mean, Stephanie, about a loss suddenly hitting you even though it’s been years. I lost my father 8 years ago, and am reminded every now and then. It breaks my heart all over again. I just hope I am making him proud❤️

[@debshaw680]

My dad has been gone for 36 years. Watching you both light candles made me tear up thinking of him. It’s always going to be that way. It took many about 15 years to let go of the awful, wrenching pain. Now it floats around me and I only occasionally bump into it.

[@yvonnesullivan4388]

Dan found that beehive and texted Nati to get beekeeper out there

[@stephanieh.777]

A bat in the bedroom was the perfect end to an extraordinary day! I'm so sorry for the loss of your father; that it still hits you shows the depth of your relationship, and that he is still with you in your heart, which is lovely. I'm sorry also for Philip's more recent loss. Once the pain has passed, the beauty of the relationship will remain and make it the sweeter when memories are stirred at a scent, an object, or an experience once shared with the loved one...

[@flippinpages6550]

My dad, mom and sister all died in the month of June. All different years and years apart. I just think it is funny they all passed away in June. 2 weeks ago I got a phone call that my dad's brother passed away this June. He was 91. I do dream about them all the time so I get to spend time with them while I sleep.

[@sylviastead9970]

Hi everyone 🥰

[@sarahburton3110]

Yes I agree that spirits can visit us in our dreams ♥️

[@barbibutton9619]

That's 4 in June...strange indeed. I too have conversations with my dad and brother who left us too soon. I wake up happy and sad

[@tamaliaalisjahbana9354]

God bless you ...

[@marymcandrew7667]

Thank you for sharing the part about lighting candles, it was very touching. Big hugs to you both!

[@megkraft3252]

God bless Phillip's grandfather and Strphsnie's dad. My father has been gone for 30 years and it can still "hit" me. I was very touched by them lighting candles!

[@GRANDIPRGROUPTravel]

Courtyard looks absolutely STUNNING. 🙋🏻‍♀️😊🥳

[@jennywillow9850]

Loving the name "Petit Pois". Perfect choice.

[@margielewis7493]

I would just love it if Stephanie would do a video talking about the paintings that her father did! To see them all in an exhibition would be truly wonderful! Or just take us around the chateau and talk about each one. Also, talking about his journey as an artist and if he has some historical pieces. What is his name? I'm sure she has said this in a vlog but a focus of his life's work would be delightful! Maybe on his birthday or Father's Day as a tribute! I want to know more about him? From Margie in Australia

[@dloadthis1617]

OMG! A bat? NOOOOO WAY! I would flee screaming in my chiffon negligee! You're very brave Stephanie.

[@N-A-uw5fp]

It’s beautiful how you show yourself arriving at home down that beautiful country lane. If I lived there, I would throw a lot of wildflower seeds along each side. It would be so gorgeous and Marie could use them for arrangements. I think it would make a grander entrance to arriving at the Château even though it’s not your property.

[@tonyawilliams9433]

I just love all the improvements to the outside of LaLande. The courtyard is maturing and looking beautiful. Can't wait to see all those sunflowers blooming. Dan and his helper are doing a wonderful job! The little beasties look happy and content...all in all it just a joy seeing all the improvements inside and out! So many projects l can't wait to see when completed! I just love watching you all! Blessings to all of you!

[@jferguscreations]

I couldn't love "Stephanie, Philip and Kat anymore! Stephanie: "I have a bat in my bedroom!" Kat: "Oh! I love bats!" And pesis de resistance, Phillip, with the most adorable face: "Can I come up and see it?" ❤❤❤

[@susannejohnson6904]

What a wonderful way to commemorate your father and Philip's grandfather.

[@KrisanthiaMum]

Sending lots of love your way. This time of year my father also passed away. I know he is here with us. We talk about him often with great loving memories. He was always my hero and always will be.

[@Greet2012]

The lovely chair made more masculine sounds like the perfect addition for Gerry’s new suite!

[@maryallen6334]

So pleased you are back. I want to see Nat's apt, the attics, the redwood area, and Selmar's area (to name a few).

[@flibbertygibbette]

Marie really needs to put out a Lalande cookbook! So many of these recipes seem really delicious and I'd love to know how to make them. And I love how Stephanie was like "hello bat, you're lovely, but you need to get out." (I'm paraphrasing) 😂 🦇

[@diannapurvis8646]

Actually its St Anne for parking spaces...we always said "Dear Saint Anne find us a parking place as fast as you can"...and she did every time!🤗

[@aleta5873]

Lol..."you are a quirky gardener"...

[@laurieedeburn2449]

im curious how nats apt is coming...

[@sallygardiner7150]

Me too!

[@roannecampagnolo4629]

The plates were beautiful together! So good to see Selmar!! He has been missed..

[@Marilinaa]

Hey Stephanie, how about gray wool felt for the chaise you bought with tartan cushions for Gerald's apartment?

[@sarahblue1914]

LaLande is looking so beautiful, I love how the fountain plantings are coming together and the sweet peas, sunflowers and tomatoes are a great touch along the outside wall.

[@annanorth7997]

It's the anniversary of my father's death too. It felt like you were lighting candles for all of us grieving those losses. Thank you.

[@ladybugaffirmations]

I just happened to be on my stationary bike while watching this video so the effect of coming upon the lalande gates and riding the stationary bike was quite nice. Thank you Stephanie!!

[@suzieq2958]

Thank you again, and know that when it hit you, I cried with you for my dear Mum 💜

[@michaeldriebeekvanderven]

Bless you both and your father (Stephanie) 🕯 and grandfather (Philip)🕯 That was very moving and beautiful ☺️

[@teresaproano7984]

Just found this.. 2024/January… it was nice looking back into the life at LaLande… 🎉

[@denisesmith6547]

Your videos at LeLand are never long enough. I could just keep watching you all day long. Love you all!!!!!!!

[@daniellereid01]

I don't know how you do it, but each time a new vlog appears, it somehow surpasses those before. I really don't know if I could manage without them and the precious glimpse into your life in my treasured France. Thank you, thank you 💕

[@anacanales3369]

Muy hermoso la construcción de este castillo medieval, de piedras y muros firmes y hermoso paisaje con sus animales, saludos de Chile 🇨🇱

[@loriwagner6299]

I loved that bat. It reminded me of my grandparents. They took care of any animal that came along that needed it. Pop had a bat that lived in the tool shed. I went in to get a tool and the poor thing got stuck in my hair! I used to have hair down past my rear end. I think about my grandparents all the time. It gives me peace. I'm sorry about your and Philips loss. 💖

[@patdowney4984]

My father died 2 years ago and I miss him everyday x

[@cynthialuna5786]

Trip wonderful, your dishes beautiful. Marie's dinner Wow. Your Chateau will one day be filled with the most beautiful flowers one have ever seen. I like that when you step out of the Chateau you see flowers. Everything is beautiful. Thank you. Everyone take care and God bless.

[@bh7578]

The chandelier in the Loo is beautiful but seems a bit low.

[@carolinegooder7091]

It is just that Selma is so tall. Lol. They can adjust it after the wiring is finished.

[@gisellenorbury2369]

Nice to see Selma again . Stephanie loved the plates . Thank you

[@NightmasksHaven]

I was so relieved when I got my second shot! So happy you guys are all protected ❤️❤️

[@redts12]

My Mother has been gone 30 years, my Father 15. You never get over it, you just learn to live without them. Tears come unexpectedly no matter how much time has past. So sweet to watch you and Phillip light the candles. ❤️

[@kerryharding5587]

Sending hugs to Philip and Stephanie - what a beautiful way to honour and send love to your grandfather and father 🕊

[@ShipCreek]

I was always of the camp 'upgrade the drone shot'. But I changed my mind this morning because it shows me how far the Chateau has come since 2020 lockdown. With all those flowers in bloom it is going to look wonderful and show how much the Chateau is l♡ved. 😁👍🦘

[@carolinegooder7091]

They could do a quick shot of the original footage and a dissolve to the new shots to show changes. In July the plants will look even better.

[@kittycatgraham]

Your visit to the basilica was very moving. Hugs to both of you. 💖🇨🇦

[@ehpeachylove]

Virtual hugs to you Stephanie and Philip , the candle lighting in such a holy place in remembrance for love of father and grandfather so touching. I too she’d a few tears. My dad passed 28 years ago and at time the day is easier than others but you never fully forget. Love the vlog. The table setting and food looks delish. Love to all at LaLande. So good to see Selmar and hear his wonderful laughter. Hope Scottman is doing good and will soon be visiting as well as mummy and Percy. Sleep well my beauties. 😘🙏💐🍷

[@Burbankelly]

Awww…you guys had me crying too! So sorry for your losses.

[@liskofod8711]

I had the same pattern on my favorite chair, so Nice to see 😍🌹💕

[@kyrvhy]

Lovely. As Dolly Parton said in Steel Magnolias", "nobody cries alone in my presence" and the same goes for me. Empathy Tears from Canada.

[@teresajordan877]

Such a beautiful moment you and Phillip lighting the candles, I am from the US but when I was in France I also lit a candle for my dear father who also passed away. I enjoyed seeing this church and hearing you explain the history, it is amazing how old it is. My love to you all.💕

[@heidistoeberl7176]

Sawdust is man glitter!!! I LOVE IT!!!! It is looking beautiful

[@janicepayne1210]

My dads been gone 34 yrs, still miss him.

[@louisedouglas8089]

This as a great vlog as always. I was very touched by Stephanie and Philip lighting a candle for their loved ones. When I am in France I always light a candle in a little church for lost loved ones. I lost my mum two months ago and my dad a year ago, and look forward to visiting France again to light a candle, a place that was very dear to them both in their travels and adventures

[@paulp9948]

You all bring so much joy! It comes at a time that we could all use a lift. I discovered you while watching Escape to the Chateau DIY and then to my delight, discovered your channel. You and your chosen family at Lalande, wipe away all the stress around me with your amazing attitude and emence joy. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@elizabethcoffee8436]

It’s so nice to return to this channel! I’ve been missing for too long....where have the two Ian’s gone? Jerry and mummy well? Happy summertime!!

[@pauljeffery6180]

I like it when you walk into a place and you know its history very clever

[@trickshotters1577]

Oh my dears, I am praying that your memories of times with your loved ones are wrapping you in the love and the comfort you felt with them in days gone by. I am sending virtual hugs as well. Debby from Mississippi.