After years of fast-paced action raising two boys and operating a large real-estate office with her husband in South Florida, Betsy Adams settled into what has to be, one of the most charming cottages in Fairhope, Alabama.
What started out as a plain, two bedroom house soon became a cozy home that’s just the right size. The transformation took time, but the vision was clear for Betsy since she has the talent and flair of having been an artist all of her life.
This is Betsy with one of her works in progress. The open living room has been arranged to allow plenty of space for painting.
Betsy painted this adorable portrait of her two sons years ago and of course, it has become a family treasure. I recognized the one on the left right away (not) as a friend who is now an attorney here in town with a beautiful wife and three little girls who often come to play at the cottage.
Since space is limited in the diminutive home, furniture is required to do double duty as this small chest is pulled into use as an end table.
Betsy’s soft painting style is in demand and although she mainly likes to paint for friends and family, she will occasionally take commissions. Even her work space is beautiful.
After living in Fairhope for a few years, Betsy’s husband passed away, and although she has been surrounded by her family and new friends, she has also handled this new chapter in life by jumping in and helping others. A trained and regular volunteer with Stephen Ministries, Betsy uses her experiences to comfort those who are facing challenges of their own.
With adorable grandchildren, good friends, volunteer work and painting, it’s a wonder to see all the details Betsy has had time to create in the cottage. The child-sized picnic table in the top left is tucked beneath a fig tree and is the perfect spot for a special treat with little girls who visit their Grandma.
The hydrangeas in the backyard are just starting to bloom, and I’m sure were the inspiration for the painting above, which I think is one of my favorites — it’s hard to choose!
As my favorite brit-com character, Hyacinth Bucket would say, this is definitely a “completely charismatic cottage” full of peaceful elegance, all created by a charming lady who is a wonderful, artistic addition to Fairhope!
Betsy Adams teaches art to individuals or small groups. You can contact her for instruction or commission work at: 251-929-2396.
Click HERE to find out more about Stephen Ministries or locally, call 251-928-1148.