An Autumn Urban Outing

I suppose like so many others I'm a creature of habit. I'm not a big shopper per se, but I do have my favorite haunts that are fortunately on sort of the same beaten path. Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma are next door to each other across from our favorite restaurant, so we have taken up the ritual of an after lunch coffee for Mr. Cottage at Starbucks, and a peek in the windows (or more) for me.

This time I discovered a new yummy pumpkin candle. There's something about the change in the weather that has me wanting a little candle glow and spicy scent going on in the evening.

The box is pretty enough to present as a hostess or birthday gift all on its own.

I have mine displayed with a little white pumpkin and a sparkly doily. You don't usually think of doilies as sparkly, but one of my favorites is a vintage one made by some clever person that has shiny beads sewn right in. I can't even imagine how this is done. It seems that the beads would be strung on the ball of thread first, and slid into place as the work progresses. This one is crocheted in a "pineapple" pattern.

I also have a nearly weekly stop at the bookstore for books and magazines, and where I picked up the new Rachel Ashwell, Couture PRAIRIE. It's shown here with an old classic by Tricia Foley that I have been spending a bit of time with in the evenings too. (Copyright 1997. I actually got my used copy at a flea market ages ago.)

From White Christmas by Tricia Foley

Such a beautiful and inspirational style!

From Couture Prairie by Rachel Ashwell

Rachel's book is centered on her Texas inn, The Prairie, and her interpretation of Shabby Chic in a more rustic setting. Perhaps more suited for diehard fans (of which I'm definitely one!), Rachel brings out the more feminine side of farmhouse style. It's probably the closest thing I will get to an actual visit, and it appeals to my love of both cabins and cottages!

I wish I were out and about at one of the many fabulous vintage fairs going on across the country this weekend, but this will have to do for me! I hope you're having a fun fall weekend too!

Jacqueline