As the year draws to a close, I find myself thinking about those of you who visit me here on the blog and how your warm comments and thoughtful conversations have kept me encouraged to stay the course on this platform. Over the last few years we’ve seen an influx of social media use and I often wondered if blogging would soon be irrelevant or obsolete. But there was always this small inner voice reminding me how I felt more of a connection with my blog readers through our shared interests and slower pace.

I’ve gathered a collection of thoughtful gift pairing ideas; when you need a little something ‘extra’ for that special someone.

For years I’ve been making these tumbled, hand dyed gift tags and since I was running low on my supply, I thought I’d whip up a new batch and show you just how easy they are - and the surprisingly simple step that gives them their trademark worn textured look.

This season I was inspired to try a unique spin on traditional holiday gift wrapping by using warm muted tones and colors that could easily transition to other gifting needs throughout the year. Let’s get started!

Do you love list posts? I do! The biggest selling points are – they’re condense and generally contain a variety of topics, products, and tips. As we transition into fall, I’ve gathered some things currently on my radar and a few of my favorite recent purchases

One of my favorite shops, Elsie Green, just opened up a second location, and it's gorgeous! Their original location has always been a favorite source for inspiration and the design and atmosphere of their new retail space is just as incredible. The bold black and whites mixed with earthy browns are a perfect balance and their selection of wares is unmatched!

Almost everything at Elsie Green is sourced overseas from antique markets and French brocantes, meaning each piece is unique. There's something really special about European antiques - they have character and history that new, manufactured pieces can never replicate. They're one of my favorite home and prop sources when I'm searching for something truly special to add to a space.

This summer, instead of novels about faraway places or unrequited love, my reading has been filled with gardens, interiors, and seasonal cookbooks. The sunlight in the studio seating area (I promise a tour!) makes for perfect reading conditions, and I've been spending a few afternoons lounging on the sofa with an icy cold drink, a whirling fan, and a stack of fresh deliveries from Amazon. 

And while we're all here, do any of you belong to a book club? I've been talking about joining/hosting one for years but I'm at a loss as to where to begin. If you attend one - is it in real life or online? Are they fiction/novel/genre based or cookbook clubs? What about groups you can join on services like Meetup, or does GoodReads have local chapters? Sheesh, sorry for all the questions. You can see why I haven't joined or started one! #sendhelp How about we just get to what I've been reading and move on....