Backroads and Barstools: October 2009

Friday, October 30, 2009

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Friday, October 23, 2009

I cannot believe it's been almost two weeks since I've blogged. I'm in withdrawal. Only two more weeks, and I get my life back.

Things are good. It's cool outside and signs of Halloween abound. I miss my family and friends, but hopefully we'll be seeing each other soon . . . but I digress.

Anyway, taking a breather from writing, I flipped through Create & Barrel's Holiday 2009 catalog that appeared in my mailbox today. C & B has done wonderful things with my favorite color palette: jewel tones! Sure it's early, but pretty is pretty. A few pieces that caught my eye:

Jewel Tone Egg Ornaments Set of Six

Moulin Rouge Rug (really want this)

Bijou Votives and Jewel Tone Glitter Dot Ball Ornaments Set of Three

Caldera Bowl

Jewel Tone Ball Ornaments with Flocking Set of Three

Genie Dessert Plates

Tree Ball Ornaments Set of Two

Colima Centerpiece Bowl

Multicolor Clear Glass Ball Ornaments Set of Four

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

big bottle wine hurricanes

I'm not sure what I love most about these beautifully dramatic hurricanes from NapaStyle--their over-the-top size, their gorgeous color, the warmth they exude, or the fact that I am now compelled to go pour a large glass of cab.

OK. I'm back.

Feeling like these beauties are alive and beckoning to me, "Let's toast autumn!"

I am really wanting ....

Sunday, October 11, 2009

spot o' tea

I think it's the Brit in me, but I love hot tea (and then there are those super cute knitted cosies ....). Tea is highly underrated--I don't drink enough of it. But as I tackle three weeks of preliminary exam writing, I'm rediscovering my love for this soothing hot beverage (the cool Texas temps only add to the comfort factor). No milk. No sugar. Just the calming aroma and flavor of the tea.

My favorites ... nothing fancy -- Starbucks Tazo (English Breakfast is wonderful) ....

... and just about any Celestial Seasonings (but I'm partial to Raspberry Zinger):

I'm in the market for a new kettle and found these lovelies at Sur La Table.

Le Creuset Pink Whistling Tea Kettle

Bodum Glass Stovetop Kettle

Simplex Tea Kettle

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

cute : : orange & black : : cheap

Tightening the purse-strings is never fun ... but unfortunately for me it's a reality right now. Enter: Old Navy and The Gap. Well done, ginormous retailers.