First I want to thank all you kindly ladies who dropped by and sent birthday wishes, cards, and emails. It's so great to know you're all out there and that you care. It really helped me get through the last week AND that fifty-something birthday. Oh boy! I have to admit that I was somewhat aghast when I realized there were now three boxes of candles for my cake. How's that for a reality check? Didn't know whether to laugh or cry. It was all good though and I got the neatest presents, like this sparkly egg-shaped rock from the Mister and the girls. I'm not sure what this is, quartz maybe? The light goes through it and it changes colors. It's just the most 
amazing thing. It looks opaque in the top picture, but turns aqua blue in shadow and amber gold when held up to the light. They presented it to me under glass in this beautiful metal urn. I love the whimsy of it all, and am enjoying it on my bedroom dresser right now. Which is just so perfect because I've been making some changes in there and it was just the inspiration I needed.
We are getting totally spoiled by these sunny mornings. A new season has arrived: 'Indian Summer', and the weather is lovely. Like in the 90's. I'm hoping it stays dry long enough to enjoy the fall changes that are already starting to appear. It's my very favorite season and always seems too short. We've been out of the house quite a lot though--enjoying the nice weather while it lasts.
The weekend was a blitz of activity. We were busy trying to wrap up loose ends around the yard while the weather held. But--then there was the annual Fall Festival here in town, plus a few other local adventures that distracted us from our chores. (Happily so--of course!)
One place we LOVE to visit--that is a bit off the beaten path--is called, The Vintage Roost, and it is absolutely delightful. (Click on the photo to see it better.) We just can't resist these wonderful little shops set back in the woods on private property. The cottage shed was 
all dressed up for autumn and was full to the rafters with handmade treasures, vintage china, homemade pies and jams. I came home with this old wooden birdcage and tiny cream pitcher. They are now keeping company with this wonderful old cloth doll. I picked her up in a California boutique about twenty years ago. She's entirely handmade, down to her laced-up boots. Her face is hand-painted; the artist signed her on the back, "La Paupee Paysanne by Charmaine c. 86". I did an internet search but came up empty. No clue about her other than that. I just adore her though. Especially her sweet hands, with all the digits. For counting birthdays . . .ahem.
