It’s getting a little darker and a little chillier here in Seattle, and I’m changing the foods I cook, the drinks I drink, and the way I spend my time, to match this new autumn season. (Think: less outdoor dinner parties, far less hiking, and more cozying up with a book by the fireplace). I’m …
Another snowstorm is headed to Seattle, a couple of days from now. The current temperature in my suburbs is 15 degrees – I’m afraid to leave the house and drive on dangerously icy roads, so I’m working at home today. If the weather warms tomorrow, I’ll head out to the store to stock up on …
Seattle has a rare snow day today, after a winter storm last night. I’m grateful I work at home and don’t have to venture out into the dangerous driving conditions and what surely will turn into icy roads later tonight! Most of the schools in the area are closed, and I expect to hear happy …
I like to do my Christmas shopping early, and to surprise friends with small gifts throughout the year. Here are some new books I’ve been putting away in my gift closet for this season’s gifting opportunities. Perhaps you’ll find them interesting too! (Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means …
A beautiful tree-lined driveway into a Park-and-Ride facility not far from my home in Woodinville, Washington Today I’m setting my plans for the weekend ahead; carving out time in my worknights for reading and for cooking meals with my boyfriend; and planning ahead for my autumn hosting and entertaining. If you throw parties, are likely …
Lavender Furniture Wax, at The Container Store Wednesdays are a busy workday for me, and I usually get to enjoy a Girls Night Out in the evening (my boyfriend meets some of his guy friends for fish & chips and beer on Wednesdays). After I get dressed and made up to go out, I won’t …
The Secret Garden, on Amazon Every spring for several years now, I take time to re-read the Frances Hodgson Burnett classic, “The Secret Garden”. Although her other well-known book, “A Little Princess,” is actually my favorite, there’s definitely a wonderful rainy-day air about “The Secret Garden” that makes it perfect for reading in …
I’ve had some stressful family emergencies lately to help out with, and now that the worst is past, I am greatly in need of some downtime by my fireplace. I’m building several quiet evenings into my calendar this week. I’ll pour wine, tea or cocoa (depending on my mood), light the fire, move my dogs’ …
Festive Autumn Wreath, via Amazon Let’s celebrate autumn (rather than bemoan the evenings getting darker sooner and the rain and cold coming!) Light a fire, make an extra cup of hot tea, cider or coffee (and time to sip and enjoy it). I’m a little sad Halloween is over, but I can still burrow into …
I just updated my late-summer porch and driveway look. I’ve added pots of pink flowers, a bit of red astilbe to transition into autumn, and pulled some turquoise lanterns into service. It’s a new month! Here in Seattle it still feels like summer, with our unusual 90 degree weather. Still, it’s back-to-school time, and all …