I won!

A shallow victory, indeed, since I had no competition, but I "won" the giveaway over at Allison's blog.

Fall-ish Fruits are here!

I've started seeing ripening figs on my neighbor's tree and picked some at my friend's house on Sunday. I had a few for breakfast (warm with honey and toast!) yesterday and just finished snacking on a couple more. There is also a persimmon around the corner that just started dropping fruits. I've been on the lookout for those, but my boy dog found the first one this morning on our walk. I try not to let him eat too many, especially since unripe ones can cause tummy troubles, but the sidewalk will be littered with their squishy orange (!) sweetness. I'm hoping to collect some of both to preserve for the winter!

Another gimmeakiss* giveaway!

Allison has another great giveaway posted on her blog from the etsy shop. The typewriter resides at one of our favorite vintage furniture/clothing stores, Father & Son on Hargett Street in downtown Raleigh. Go post a comment for a chance to win this lovely art photo print!

too much

So I made an entire pot of coffee this morning and then the boss called in sick. He's the only other one who drinks it. I made a whole 12 cups, because it is rainy, and I've inadvertently consumed most of it, by myself...

and a Coke...

and some chocolate I found in the cabinet.

Saying Goodbye

My great aunt Frances passed away on Saturday. She was 95, if my math is correct. My grandmother's oldest sister, she was also a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother. She was a wonderful, sweet, caring, devout woman. Aunt Frances loved everybody. Whether it was cousins telling silly stories or the little ones running around, you could always hear Aunt Frances laughing and loving it all. Her home was always a special place filled with love and her family has always exhibited a peace I've seen in few others.

I wasn't able to make our family reunion this past May, so missed that chance to see Aunt Frances, and I'm not able to make the trip for the funeral today. I hope she knows I'm thinking of her anyway.

Raleigh Street Fashion - one month update!

I feel pretty good about the first month over at Raleigh Street Fashion. Some people on the street, some on the move, and some related local events... I like the direction and I've gotten some great feedback already! We started August with the first local designer profile, for Koa Designs, so please go check it out!.