AndBloom

30/12/2024

To close out my 2024, I wanted to share one of my portraits, as they hold a special place in my heart. This year, I’ve photographed far too little—a habit I’m determined to change in 2025. Choosing a favorite was no easy task, but I let my current Miami vibes guide me. I settled on this one because Karen is not only one of the kindest and most wonderful Bloomers I’ve had the pleasure of meeting in recent years (and trust me, there are many), but her energy truly stands out. It wasn’t an easy choice, but it feels just right. 🇺🇸

——-

I am Karen, and my life has been a canvas of adventure, resilience, and creativity. At 19, I left Palo Alto, California, to pursue my dream of studying art in Europe. The Hague became my destination, even though I knew no one, didn’t speak Dutch, and had only my savings. Determination and a passion for art fueled me.

I learned Dutch through comic books and immersed myself in a culture that soon felt like home. Accepted into the Royal Academy of Art, the 5-year program shaped me into the artist I am today. Life brought twists, including marriage and divorce, but I stayed in the Netherlands, where for 49 years I’ve worked as a professional artist in a spacious studio in the old city center.

Looking back, I wish I had studied in other countries, like Italy, and spent more time with my parents before they passed. A deep sorrow has been not having children, a quiet ache that has taught me to cherish the joys I do have.

Now 73, I feel vibrant and young at heart, closer to 38 than my actual age. My wrinkles tell the story of a life fully lived, and to me, that’s the most beautiful thing of all.

30/12/2024

The Miami Edit: Here’s What We’ve Been Up To So Far.

I received some really great tips from followers about Miami, thank you for that. We’ve followed most of them already. ❤️

Fitting everything into just 20 slides is no easy task! If you’d like to dive deeper into my Miami adventure and see more photos, you can check out the full edit in the upcoming days on my website. 👉🏼 www.andbloom.amsterdam

I posted my favorite things to do on South Beach yesterday. The rest of Miami will follow 🔜

I hope you’ll enjoy the Miami vibes! ✨

1. My favorite trees? Palm trees. 🌴

2. The Art Deco District, known for its distinctive architecture from the 1920s to the 1940s. Characterized by pastel colors, geometric patterns and neon lights, the district embodies the optimism of the Art Deco style.

3. Breakfast at

4. Miami’s lifeguard houses are iconic structures scattered along the city’s sandy beaches, they are all different and fabulous.

5. Relax time at the pool of our hotel.

6. TikTok famous 🍦

7. Breakfast at a fun place to visit if you are into fashion and history.

8. Shopping at Lincoln Road, not what it used to be but still worth a visit.

9. Lunch chique and trendy.

10. The Everglades 🐊 Finn loved it.

11. Vintage shopping

12. A must-go if you’re into vintage.

13. In the same street a bit more down the road

14. Another fabulous vintage shop.

15. Flea market Down Town Miami.

16. lovely vibe and I bought a beautiful vintage watch from the 60s.

17. I loved the vibe at Wynwood District.

18. very creative and colorful.

19. And for high-end shopping or window shopping Design District

20. is the place to be

27/12/2024

Photo dump incoming! 🌴 I can’t get over how unbelievably photogenic this place is… and the light!! ☀️ Being here has really made me appreciate just how much of a difference good lighting makes when it comes to capturing beautiful photos and videos. Honestly, for the light alone, I might need to consider moving to the US. 😆

We’re staying in the Art Deco district, and honestly, every single building here is pretty. I have no clue how many more photo dumps I can make from all the gorgeous spots around here, but I’m pretty sure it could to be endless.

Over the past few days, walking around has brought back so many memories—places I’ve stayed before (though the hotels now have different names) and restaurants I’d completely forgotten about. Then again, I’ve always had a pretty bad memory. There are even big gaps from my childhood, although I suspect that’s a different story altogether.

They say that certain parts of your childhood might be harder to recall due to emotional experiences or simply the way your brain stored those memories.

I’m so curious about how much Finn will remember of these moments later on. I really hope the happy memories will stay with him.

23/12/2024

18/12/2024

At 80, I have come to appreciate the beauty of growing older. The confidence I now carry is something I never had in my twenties. Walking in front of a full terrace or attending a party on my own used to feel overwhelming, but those fears are long gone. Experience has taught me that most of the things I once worried about simply don’t matter.

Of course, getting older has its challenges. The hardest part is the loss of family and friends. I do my best to stay healthy, both physically and emotionally. I drink plenty of water, avoid smoking, rarely touch alcohol, and make sure to get eight hours of sleep every night.

Living near the beach is a blessing I never take for granted. Walking and cycling by the sea are part of my daily routine, and I aim to reach 10,000 steps a day. The sound of the waves and the rhythm of my steps bring me peace, clearing my mind and energizing my body.

Emotionally, I find happiness in the love of my family. My children and grandchildren are the light of my life, and I see them as often as I can. Even my 19-year-old grandson still enjoys having lunch with me, something that fills me with pride and joy. Those shared moments—full of laughter, conversation, and love—are what I treasure most.

When I look at what makes me truly happy, it’s simple: my family. Their love and presence bring me more joy than anything else.

I am 80 years old, but I don’t feel it. In my heart, I’m no older than 50. Yes, the mirror shows wrinkles and grey hair, but I see those as marks of a life well-lived. I have faced difficult times—several surgeries and moments of uncertainty—but I am deeply grateful to have survived and to feel as strong as I do today.

Growing older is not about what’s lost; it’s about cherishing what remains and celebrating the moments that make life beautiful. Every day is a gift, and I walk forward with gratitude, knowing that I have lived, loved, and continue to embrace life with open arms.

📷

17/12/2024

“Little green back” from George Baker 😂 isn’t that an epic song. George’s real name is Johannes “Hans” Bouwens and he’s is a Dutch singer and songwriter who, with his band “George Baker Selection”, scored three international hits; “Little Green Bag” (1969), “Paloma Blanca” (1975) and “Santa Lucia by Night” (1985). Not bad for a Dutch guy. He’s 80 at the moment and I particularly loved “Little Green Bag” in Quentin Tarantino’s film Reservoir Dogs.

So I got this skirt and tried it on and send it back cause it wasn’t me. But I kept the jeans! What’s your favorite? Skirt or jeans?

Lip color combined a brownish lipliner Spice from and the beautiful matte red lipstick Rosso Ancora.

Jeans is Zara, straight leg and high waisted.
This coat 🤩🤩 got it last year but is still favorite this winter.
Skirt just like the high nek grey sweater. Scarf and jewelry from my collection. And of course that little green bag

Have a lovely day. ❤️❤️❤️

14/12/2024

Is there anything more powerful than the outstretched hand of another woman reaching in your direction? For me, nothing compares to the beauty of sisterhood. I absolutely cherish how the women in my circle—and even those I’ve simply crossed paths with—have shown unwavering support for my journey. Over time, I’ve managed to build my tribe, my community, and I firmly believe in the transformative power of cheering one another on.

While I’ve read countless articles over the years suggesting that women are more likely to tear each other down than lift one another up, my experience tells a different story. I’ve witnessed, firsthand, the incredible shift happening now—women joining hands, celebrating womanhood, and embracing each other’s success.

It’s vital that we stick together. A woman’s light doesn’t diminish when she stands next to another’s; there’s plenty of room for all of us to shine. We can thrive together without competing or stealing each other’s spotlight.

That said, I recognize that not every woman has experienced this kind of support. Jealousy and competitiveness can sometimes creep in—not just in our younger years but even well into adulthood. I’ve faced it myself. Women can sometimes be harsh, judgmental, or hypercompetitive, focusing on tearing others down rather than building connections.

I’ve experienced bullying from other women in my life, but those moments taught me to shift my focus. Instead of dwelling on negativity, I’ve chosen to align myself with a different group of women: those who genuinely want to see each other succeed, who celebrate wins together, and who embody the spirit of sisterhood.

That’s where I’ve found my strength, my inspiration, and my joy.



Teddy pants
Bag
Scarf
Auden coat AndBloom shop
Sneakers OG

Ps: ask me anything about this outfit it there’s something more you’d like to know! 🩶🤍

11/12/2024

I haven't got much to add in the caption just to remind you that nothing is ever what it seems and that you 🫵🏼 are doing great! Keep going.

10/12/2024

I think it’s about change because change can be scary. Just when you’ve got everything in order, something shifts again, and it’s up to you whether you adapt or not. I’ve always liked a bit of change—it’s just how I’ve been—but lately, I find it more challenging at times. Sometimes I’d rather things stay the same instead of changing. I’m less flexible, less willing to go along with every new wind. And yet, I believe you have to keep inspiring yourself through change, even if it’s just a little, even if it’s only for yourself. How do you feel about change?

Slide 6 is definitely my comfort zone. ❤️

08/12/2024

And remember that you are loved. ❤️

08/12/2024

This is Herma. Portraying her was a profound inspiration to me. It’s not every day that I have the privilege of photographing a stunning woman in her 90s. I am beyond grateful that she chose to be part of AndBloom, sharing her story to inspire women around the world.

A few days after our photo shoot, I found an envelope in my mailbox at home. Inside was a handwritten letter from Herma, expressing her gratitude. She wanted to thank me and my team for what she called an “unforgettable afternoon,” describing how a whole new world had opened up for her in my studio. Alongside the answers to some questions I had sent her earlier that week, Herma included a heartfelt message she wanted to share:

Herma: “I would like to give the following message to the women who follow you:
Listen to others. Be genuinely interested. Don’t judge too quickly—embrace others with love. Of course, you’ll face disappointments, but try to see things from a new perspective. Ask yourself why you feel dissatisfied. Sometimes, the issue lies within you, not with the other person.

When I became a widow 31 years ago, I began exploring new paths while raising my family of four children. I learned to play bridge, attended the theater more regularly, and started volunteering. My advice to all women: continue to enjoy life and invest in the people around you.”

photography

05/12/2024

When someone asks me, “What’s your best aging tip, Dee?” I pause for a moment and reply, “Hang out with older women.” Find a muse, a crone, a sage, or a guide—they hold the wisdom. They’ll show you that aging isn’t something to fear; it’s just living.

The absence of older women’s faces in media, magazines, and advertising is part of a toxic cycle. When society doesn’t celebrate or appreciate female elders, fewer women feel inspired or empowered to step into that role. It’s no surprise—if something isn’t valued, who would want to embody it?

Humans are social creatures. For personal growth and fulfillment, we need to identify with meaningful roles at every stage of life. This connection gives us a sense of purpose and belonging. If young women have no positive examples of aging, it’s natural for them to find the process intimidating.

Now, as for my second, third, fourth, and fifth-best aging tips? Let go. Love yourself. Listen to your heart. And laugh—often and loudly.

Oh, and number six? Own who you are, because you absolutely rock. 🤟🏼

Have a happy, vibrant day, everyone. 🤩

Muse in the 📷:

02/12/2024

Last week was another one for the books (aren’t they all?). Yesterday, I took a photo of Finn in the dunes with an autumn leaf in front of his face because I had taken a similar photo in October 2018. I recently came across that old photo and decided to recreate it this weekend (photo 2 just turned 9, and photo 3 just shy of 4 years old).

I visited Pien van at Pan Amsterdam and also got acquainted with work. I had the honor of portraying a beautiful woman, for the new book, where is providing me with amazing help.

I had my second Morpheus8 treatment at .nl with stunning results. At home, I focused on skin pampering with the delightful products from and wore the Pinzo coat (photo 1) when it was cold—because, just like my mood, the weather swung from one extreme to the other this week. Luckily, the slippers from warmed my cold feet, and I felt gorgeous in the lingerie from paired with a beautiful kimono from . Not to mention the stunning flowers from

Wishing you all a wonderful new week. I hope this week will be equally as wonderful both for you and for me. 🩷

17/11/2024

And just like that, 🫰🏼 Finn turns 9 today, and the incredible adventure continues. I feel blessed and thankful to live this wonderful experience of motherhood. It’s definitely not always easy and fun, but it’s heartfelt, intense, and treasuring most of the time. Thanks to Finn, I know what love is—before I had him, I absolutely had no clue. I am forever grateful. ❤️

13/11/2024

At 52, I feel settled in a way I never thought possible. There’s a perspective that only comes with time—the kind that lets you step back and see everything, even the tough moments, as essential parts of who you are. I feel more like myself than ever, with the little insecurities and doubts of my younger years giving way to a quiet confidence.

Of course, mornings aren’t as easy as they used to be. I feel a bit stiff when I get out of bed, and menopause has brought a few extra challenges, especially with those hormonal swings. My partner bears the brunt of them—I’ve developed a bit of a fiery streak with him! But we laugh about it, finding ways to roll with the changes.

If I could, I’d tell my younger self to worry less, to follow her instincts, and to stay true to herself. She was doing just fine, even if she didn’t always see it. I’ve learned that each choice and every misstep adds up to the life you live now, and that’s a life I wouldn’t trade.

The little joys have become my essentials. I keep my skin hydrated, always wear sunscreen, and can’t go without my favorite Neroli-cleansing oil. Makeup isn’t for every day, but I love curling my lashes—a tip from a makeup artist friend. And though I’m not one to go out much, I’ll still search for the perfect dinner spot or indulge in a Rick Owens search.

I feel 52, and that feels good. Each year is a gift, and I’m grateful to spend it in good health, surrounded by people I love.

🌸

12/11/2024

Wow, what a week! It was one for the books. I had two British beauties over for a photo shoot. By now, it’s no secret—I’m working on the “AndBloom 2.0” book, which I plan to publish around my 50th birthday (so, next year 🎈). For this project, I had and in front of the camera. I’ve been following both of these ladies for a long time with great admiration. I also visited the printing house with my graphic designer, Yuri which really helped bring the concept to life—at least in my mind. 💭 Of course, is doing all the styling for the new photos, and we’re mostly just having a lot of fun together. I love working with my bestie because she knows exactly what I want, need and seek for this new book baby.

I also took a bit of time to relax this week, taking a lovely beach walk with Finn and Socks. Socks got so dirty that she needed a bath right afterward! In the spirit of relaxation, I gave my skin two facial cupping massages this week with products, painted my nails in “Sunburst Red” from and spent plenty of time playing with words.

I received a beautiful, lush bouquet from (hoping it lasts two weeks) and finally got to wear my cozy new winter coat from 🌸

Happy Tuesday ladies!

07/11/2024

It’s such an incredible privilege to be Finn’s mother. The older he gets, the more fun it becomes. Lately, he’s been telling me how much he enjoys history at school. Learning about the past, different eras, events, centuries like the Middle Ages. And as I chat with him, and he comes home bursting with stories, I remember how much I loved history as a kid, too—I even wanted to study it until well into high school. I still love reading books about the past and reflecting on my own history.

So, in the spirit of history, here’s a little glimpse into my family’s story on my mother’s side. She was born in 1949 in Bandung, Indonesia, where my grandmother was from. During the post-war years, my grandmother met my Dutch grandfather. Together, they had three daughters in Indonesia; my grandmother also had a son from an earlier relationship, and later, after moving to the Netherlands, they had another son.

My mother was nine years old when they were repatriated from Indonesia to the Netherlands. Life wasn’t always easy after the move, especially during those early years of her childhood. She could write a book about it, but I’ll spare you that for now.

They say that sorrow and trauma can impact a family for generations, that pain is often unconsciously passed down, repeating itself in subtle ways. The struggles of one generation can echo in the next, showing up in familiar fears, unspoken anxieties, or even patterns of behavior. It’s as if we carry fragments of their experiences, reliving parts of their story without realizing it.

When I think about my family, it doesn’t always bring up pleasant emotions, which is unfortunate. Life hasn’t been easy for my mom but it’s also wasn’t for my grandmother. But by recognizing some patterns, I can try to break the cycle, honoring my past while choosing a new path forward for myself and my son.

In any case, I’m very proud of that little piece of Indonesia in my heritage. I just wish I’d inherited that beautiful tan. 😆

05/11/2024

Do you ever scroll all the way back to the beginning of your feed? Mine goes back six and a half years with almost daily posts. This was the first selfie I posted on my feed, along with the very first portraits of my mother and and other “Bloomers,” the first quotes, and flowers.

Yesterday, I had a photo shoot with at home that made me so happy. Sometimes in life, you drift off, get distracted, or feel less on point. But then something crosses your path, or something happens that brings you back to where you left off.

I’ve missed my camera, but one thing is certain: I’ve never lost sight of the mission all this time.

1. First selfie — remember feeling awkward
2. Mom — my greatest example
3. Blooms 🌸
4. Bestie
5. Bloomer shoot with
6. Quote
7. Bloomer shoot with Willemijn
8. Quote
9. Bloomer shoot with Jose
10. Also started my website from the start:

www.andbloom.amsterdam

11. From the shoot with Willemijn
12. On my 43rd birthday in Paris
13. Bloomer shoot with Jose
14. Blooms 🌸
15. Bloomer shoot with
16. Quote
17. Another awkward first selfie

Ps: I love my life