October 14th, 2011

{A cheap bouquet feels fresh in a vintage mint julep cup}
I’m not sure if it was the oppressive heat or what, but this week seemed to go on forever. Luckily I managed to tackle a bunch of things, including some major strides in our wedding planning process. As you can see from the (slightly eerie) picture below from last Saturday morning, we’ve secured our venue and I’m so so relieved. It feels like everything else can now start to fall into place (like finding a dress!) and we’ve been enjoying the task of finding a song for our first dance. Turns out, most of the ones we’re drawn to are far too slow, which would result in a terribly awkward five minutes for everyone involved.

{The last batch of summer berries – that promptly went into a pie}

{Our wedding venue!}

{Reacquainted with an old favorite that I’ve had the hardest time finding}

{Insane selection of cheeses at Cowgirl Creamery}
October 13th, 2011

{Moss gives the entryway antique chandelier an eerie feel}
There’s almost nothing I find more exciting than decorating our place for Halloween. This year I’ve had so little time to dedicate to my favorite holiday (between my blog, my book, and upcoming wedding), but I finally got around to it earlier this week. Here’s a glimpse at how it’s come together thus far and you can see years past here and here.

{A black crow peeks out from the bookcase}

{A coat of glossy spray paint elevates miniature pumpkins}

{A side table tray gets a weathered look with cobwebs}

{Spiders descending on the bust in the entryway}

{Close-up}
October 12th, 2011

This past Saturday afternoon we drove out to Marshall to go to Hog Island Oyster Co. It’s a tiny town that borders Tomales Bay with plenty of local seafood spots scattered along the windy road. I only recently started eating raw oysters – but now love their briny taste, especially with a little hot sauce and mignonette. We sat at picnic tables, shucked oysters (6 dozen, to be exact) and drank champagne, before heading back home. It was one of those idyllic days that I only seem to be able to find when back in Northern California.







October 11th, 2011

J.Crew Earrings, Karen Zambos Dress, Coach Clutch, Vintage Bracelet, Prada Heels
I was sold on this dress when I saw it just from the front. A classic a-line wool mini dress that’s appropriate even on the chilliest evenings. But when I saw it from the back, that’s when I fell in love. The jewels add such a special touch to an otherwise neutral piece and I love the unexpected drama it lends as you exit a room.


