This weekend went by in a blink of an eye – why does that always happen? My days off consisted of wellies, warm cups of tea, cooking, catching up with friends, finally unpacking from Texas, laundry and a fun photo shoot. It was quite the productive weekend. I’m ready for the work week to begin. Today Katy from Katy Elliott is guest blogging – I’m inspired every single day by the renovation Katy and her husband are doing. The house they bought is adorable and I look forward to seeing the finished house, but in the meantime I’m loving watching the process. Thanks Katy for guest blogging here today! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Hello Sacramento Street readers! I’m Katy Elliott and I blog about renovating a 260-year-old in New England. The renovation is really slow so I fill the time in-between with recipes, inspiration, and images from my town. Thanks to Caitlin for having me! Below a few of things that make me happy! 1. MacAusland Woolen Mills Blanket, $46-$87. My house is really old and cold. Right now I’m tucked under my favorite gray wool blanket I got from MacAusland Woolen Mills out of Prince Edward Island last winter. It keeps me really warm all winter long and probably for the rest of the my life. The quality is really outstanding for the price. 2. Ticking Stripe Flannel Comforter Cover, $79-$119. I feel guilty and a bit lazy for admitting this but I love to sleep in. I’m lucky enough to work from home so I don’ t have to rush in the morning. I stay in bed snuggled up in my wool blanket and flannel down comforter till the last possible second. Staring out the window at the leaves changing in a quiet house is basically my version of heaven. 3. Ikat Spot Pyjamas, about $95. Are you sensing a theme? Sometimes, ahem, I sleep too late and end of drinking my morning coffee and checking my e-mail in my PJs. I just ordered this super cute pair from Toast. 4. Kelpie Cap pattern, $6. I knit a few simple hats last year and wanted to try advancing my skills this fall. The Keplie cap looks more complicated then it actually is—the ear flap is knit back and forth and then joined into the round. The pattern and yarn are from Maine based company, Quince & Co. 5. Barbour Rose Utility Jacket, $379. I’ve wanted this jacket for the past three years. I finally saved up and ordered it this fall. I really enjoy wearing it and it fits beautifully. How freakin’ cute is the Liberty rose lining? I knit the Kelpie Cap (above) to match the jacket. 6, 7. Farrow & Ball Living with Colour, Ros Byam Shaw, $40. Hands down my favorite interior book of the year! All the interiors use Farrow & Ball paints which if you read my blog you’ll find out I’m a big fan! If you dig moody interiors and stories of the English country side check out Jasper Conran’s book Country too. It’s A-mazing! 8. Bella Foster @ Art Since The Summer ’69. I’m a huge fan of Bella Foster’s abstract patterned filled interiors. She has a show in New York I hope to attend later this month. Click over to find out more and see more images of her work. 9. Baking: From My Home To Yours, Dorie Greenspan, $40. Winter is my favorite time of the year to really dive into recipes that take multiple days. What else is there to do when the sun goes down at 4? I picked up 3-4 bread books last winter and I’m hoping to work my way through them. I find it so satisfying to accomplish recipes requiring intense measuring, heating, and time. Above sticky buns I made from Dorie Greenspan’s book—best I’ve ever made! 10. Marblehead, Massachusetts I feel really lucky to work from home and live in a quintessential New England coastal town. What I love most is that I can walk everywhere. Most afternoons I walk to the park overlooking the ocean, pick up a cup of coffee, and get groceries. I can’t tell you how much I enjoy not driving. #lifestyle

Ladies and gents, I apologize for the lack of posting this week, but the San Francisco Giants have just won the World Series – madness has erupted in my household! Words cannot describe how happy I am for the Giants and my husband. It was an amazing experience being in Texas for the winning game and going down to the field to celebrate with the players. I’ll be posting lots of photos next week. Back to regular posting today! Thanks for all of the SF Giants support over the past month. xo, Caitlin #lifestyle

This summer I featured a blogger summer reading list, because all of you loved it so much I decided that I’m going to bring it back every season. I’ve asked a whole new set of my favorite bloggers to chime in on their favorite reads for this fall – if you don’t have a stack at home already, you will soon. I’ll be getting a big box from Amazon after getting these reviews. So grab a warm cup of tea, snuggle up in a cozy blanket and open one of these great new reads. Caitlin Handcrafted Modern – Leslie Williamson I read parts of this beautiful book when Leslie showed me her personal copy of the book. It’s hands down one of my all time favorite interior design/photograph books. The outside is breathtaking and then when you open the book you can’t put it down because of all the inspiration. Run don’t walk to the book store for this book! Lifting the Curtain on Design – Vicente Wolf Only five more days until I can go into my local bookstore to grab this must-have. My mom and I have been counting down the days to pour through this read. Sarah’s Key – Tatiana de Rosnay As a kid, I couldn’t put down books that had to do with the Holocaust. I’ve had multiple friends recommend this book to me since it came out a few years ago, so I think it’s time I finally grab a warm blanket and read it. Last Night at the Chateau Marmont – Lauren Weisberger This is at the top of my massive stack of books next to my bedside table. I can’t wait to dive into it this weekend because I couldn’t put down any of Lauren’s other books! Fallon She Made Friends and Kept Them – Fleur Cowles “She Made Friends and Kept Them” is a memoir of Fleur Cowles’ experiences with all of the fabulous people she’d met over the course of her life. It’s kind of like reading really good gossip! I love it. The Power of Style – Annette Tapert and Diana Edkins Katie Armour suggested that I pick up this book, and I’m so thankful that she did. It’s composed of short biographical pieces about stylish women of the 20th century, ranging from Elsie de Wolfe to Daisy Fellowes. A very inspiring read! Emma – Jane Austen I just bought the Pengiun Classis edition of “Emma” from Anthropologie a few weeks ago. “Emma” was really a life-changing book for me.. I try to re-read it once a year. I feel so fancy when I’m reading this specific copy 🙂 Jessica Take Ivy I love the observatory nature of the book — it was written by and for Japanese readers about Ivy League style in the 1960’s. I’ve always been interested in Men’s Trad style, and this book is such an interesting little time capsule. Gypset Style – Julia Chaplin On the other end of the spectrum, I am totally obsessed with the idea of Gypset right now — the modern bohemian jetsetter. It makes me want to swathe myself in Matthew Williamson and Jules Reid and set my compass towards Bali. Hell’s Angels: A Strange and Terrible Saga – Hunter S. Thompson I never tire of Hunter S. Thompson, ad this book so far is just as terrifying as it is engaging. It recounts his years spent living with the notorious Hell’s Angels motorcycle gang in the mid 1960’s. I love learning about crazy counter-cultural sagas like this one. Crystal My Life in France – Julia Child Julia Child’s memoir, My Life in France, is such an inspirational one as it shows that it’s never too late to find and follow your passion. It’s also a very beautiful love story of loyalty, support, and commitment. The icing on the cake, however, is all the lovely recipes peppered throughout that’ll have you rushing to your kitchen to try out! If You Have to Cry, Go Outside – Kelly Cutrone I haven’t read this one, but I’m dying to get my hands on a copy of Kelly Cutrone’s If You Have to Cry, Go Outside! I adore Kelly’s no nonsense, frank approach to business and am curious to see how this has helped her build her formidable fashion pr empire. The Glass Castle – Jeannette Walls This was a memoir I could not put down! It recaps the story of a woman who lived through a rather tumultuous upbringing and the way she turned her difficult childhood into her adulthood success. It’s inspirational, thought provoking, and truly an unforgettable story. Julie Lucia Lucia – Adriana Trigiani This is my second time reading this book and I love it even more! Adriana Trigiani is my favorite fiction author. I adore the Italian families she creates and the recipes she includes in all her stories and the easy flow of her writing makes it an easy escape read. Lucia Lucia is about a young seamstress looking for love and a way to express her creativity. True Compass A Memoir – Edward Kennedy Living in Massachusetts I saw first hand the impact Ted Kennedy had on our state and our country. I have always been fascinated by the Kennedy’s and their amazing bond as a family. This book takes us through his entire life and was written by him in his final year. Truly inspiring! At Home with Town & Country In one line… because it is GORGEOUS and daydream worthy! DV – Diana Vreeland Vreeland was a force of nature! She took every opportunity that was given to her and ran with it! I can’t wait to learn even more about her life at Vogue & Harpers Bazaar. #lifestyle

When the Rue team received the (much anticipated) email from Jamie Beck with ALL of the images from the Vicente Wolf photo shoot, I gasped for air. As I scrolled through each and every photo all I could think about was “how the heck are we going to choose which images to use? They’re all amazing!” I knew all along that they were going to be breathtaking, but they were beyond what I expected. Here are a few never before seen images from the shoot that were taken inside Vicente’s home. His aesthetic is jaw-dropping and for a girl that loves blue – this space is so inspiring! *photos taken by Jamie Beck for Rue Magazine #interiors

Talk about a magical night. I’ve never in my life felt more proud, loved and honored to be part of such an amazing team. Everyone that came to celebrate with us, welcomed us with open arms and were so supportive about our leap into the publishing world – it felt so good. I know you’ve seen countless blog posts about Rue Magazine’s launch party (like here, here and here) but I just had to share one of my favorite photos from the night – it’s of the team before the party got hopping. Last Wednesday Rue was honored to be part of New York Design Center’s – What’s New What’s Next event. Rue’s amazing food columnist, Marissa Lippert, put together a mouth watering cooking demo with seasonal apple dishes – I can’t even pick a favorite, they were all delicious. You can find the recipes in the premiere issue of Rue (page 62). A huge thank you needs to go out to Jacqueline of Merci New York and Kathleen of Kat Flower for the beautiful tabletop display (it’s my fall dinner party inspiration) and the gorgeous flower arrangements – we couldn’t have done it without you ladies. A big thank you goes out to the New York Design Center for welcoming the Rue team with open arms. I’ve never met such an amazing group of ladies. You made our launch party become a reality and it was truly amazing! *first photo taken by the wonderful Kate Murphy and the rest of the photos taken by the lovely Rima Campbell #lifestyle #interiors

When you receive an invitation from the lovely Kelley Moore, be sure to hop in a cab or plane and go! Never in my life have I been to dinner party as luxuries as this one. I arrived in New York and immediately had to run to the hotel to change into my party dress. Talk about no time for a cat nap, but who needs a nap with the energy New York gives you? The Rue gals and I got out of our cab in our party attire, I looked up at the building we were about to be buzzed into and saw candelabras lit across a long table – my heart jump with excitement and I gasped for air. I turned to the rest of the ladies and said “that has to be where we are going – who else is having an ultra chic dinner party in the building?” Talk about girl heaven – bright pink walls decorated with beautiful art and photos that take your breath away. Walking down the hallway all I could think about is “this night is going to be one I’m going to remember forever.” New York, concrete jungle where dreams are made of There’s nothin’ you can’t do Now you’re in New York These streets will make you feel brand new Big lights will inspire you Let’s hear it for New York, New York, New York. Dancing, signing and laughing with everyone was something I will remember forever. Thank you Kelley for having all of us over – I’ll never forget that night! *images by Cassandra of coco+kelley #lifestyle

Summer has finally arrived! The skies are bright blue, the sun is shining and the warm air feels – oh, so, good. Hallelujah! Today, I’m very very excited to have Samantha from Pretty Lovely guest blogging about the things that make her happy. Her picks are amazing – I wanted not just one, but everything she lists. Plus, we’re strikingly similar, my first stop in Paris was the Mariage Fréres store. I spent WAY too much money there, but I love everything I purchased. Watch out Samantha, it’s deadly! Hope all of you have a wonderful Monday! And enjoy this post. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Caitlin, thank you so very much for inviting me to participate in this series. Your blog is truly fantastic and I am so honored to be involved. I am eagerly anticipating Rue’s first issue and wish you the best of luck! Although I am taking a break from Pretty Lovely to focus on some wonderful things that have happened to me in the recent year, you can still find me writing about design, architecture, and art for the blog We Love DC. I don’t know about all of you, but is has been one uber-humid summer here in D.C. – and I am desperately pleading for fall to arrive. Every morning I wake up and stand on my balcony hoping that a cool breeze will tickle my toes, and to my dismay the weatherman has yet to answer my prayers. At last, Caitlin has asked me to share the 10 things that make me happy and now I get to daydream of my favorite time of year just a little bit more. This list offers me a lot of happiness these days and I hope that it brings you a bit of joy too! When the weather turns cold I find myself writing more. Nothing is more relaxing than sketching or brainstorming for my next story under a warm blanket on the sofa. Moleskin notebooks are a must have for me. Every fall I look for a classic, tailored trench coat and have yet to find one that meets all of my criteria. I have a good feeling that this beauty – Shoulder Pad Trench Coat, may just make the cut this time around. I am a huge fan of Bon Iver. Although his soulful music is perfect to listen to no matter what the season, when I hear the song “Flume” I am automatically transported to a memory of a brisk fall morning. I am a stickler when it comes to nail polish. In the summer I always wear sheers and in the fall it’s all about the darks. I purchased this Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Paradoxal a month ago and can’t wait for the weather to drop below 60 so that this pretty jewel tone can adorn my fingers and toes. Woody Allen’s Everyone Says I Love You (1996) is the perfect fall movie. The first scene with Drew Barrymore and Edward Norton in New York City is just stunning. This has become a permanent fixture in my Netflix Queue. I am going to be in Paris at the end of September and already know that I will be spending a good amount of money at Mariage Fréres. The French Breakfast and Jasmin Mandarin are heavenly. I have been growing out my hair all spring and summer so that come fall I can have long, luscious locks. Thanks to these Phyto “miracle vitamins” and Oribe’s Royal Blowout, I am well on my way to channeling Ali MacGraw in Love Story (1970). Well, no season, no matter how lovely, will make me happy without my Newfoundland Izzy around (not available for purchase). I recently saw these in a store and took note. They are without a doubt going to be my go to shoes for fall. I love how these classic oxford wedges were given a new twist by the fabulous Tory Burch. These candles don’t come cheap, but they are worth every penny. They last for a long time and make my entire home smell incredible. Almost every scent is good, but my favorite remains to be Figuier. #lifestyle

Can you tell that I’m in a fall mood this week? I have a feeling it has to do with the blue skies, crisp air and sea breeze here in San Francisco. I’ve been stocking up on fall clothes already, mainly because I can already wear them. I make a list every month of things I’m coveting – these are them. The cute black booties and gray pull-over sweater have been worn so much my husband has noticed (which is never a good sign). I’m dying to get a pair of army green pants, they are a great alternative to jeans for work and the bag – le sigh – would be the perfect for work, but alas WAY out of my budget. What are some of your early fall favorites? I’d love to know! *photos via pants, sweater, handbag, and booties #style

It’s been another exciting week. Ladies and gents, we’re packing our bags and heading to New York this September! I’m sure by now you’ve heard through twitter and facebook that Rue will be part of “What’s New What’s Next @ 200 Lex” program on September 22nd. Can you believe it? I’m still pinching myself. It’s an honor to be part of New York Design Center’s event – I’ve been reading about it and wanting to go for years.

Hello Monday! I’ve been traveling since last Wednesday, enjoying the Pacific Northwest. This weekend I got to soak up warm weather, sip cocktails with Erin and Cassandra, and witness a beautiful wedding on a lake – it was magical. Well lovelies, today I’m very excited to have Franki from Life in a Venti Cup. I’ve been following Franki for a long time and love her style, inspiration and best of all her sense of humor. Thank you so much for guest blogging here today! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * First, Caitlin, thank you or featuring me on your fascinating blog. You have a loyal following, and I’m grateful to have been included in your list of participants. The idea of outlining ten things that make us happy is such a fun concept for a series. I keep telling myself I’ll make a new list for myself each week, as the answers would vary nearly every day! You’ve inspired me to try it out 😉 Without further ado, here’s my “Venti 10“… Russel & Hazel Pink Binder These are SO pretty on my desk. You don’t have to choose pink, as they come in many colors, but the pink makes me oh-so-happy. I’m satisfying my OCD addiction, my type-A tendencies and my “it has to be perfect” aesthetic desires all in one punch. I personally love using three in a row on my desktop for more impact and more organization possibilities. $24 @ Russel & Hazel. Jo Malone Candles I tried desperately to resist the siren call of these candles. They are pricey! Fortunately you can buy the more affordable travel or home size, which come in beautiful glass containers and last forever. The Pomegranate Noir is sensational!!! $65 @ Saks Brown Sugar Body Polish Still slaving over your legs in the quest for the perfect shave, shine and tone? One shower with this and you’ll be pulling out your short-shorts and begging people to come stare at your long, beautiful legs. It also smells divine and performs wonders on feet and hands. Buy extra, you’ll use this every day. $65 for over 14oz @ Sephora Ole Henriksen Truth Serum I recently wrote about this amazing serum. For less that $50 it makes my complexion glow and my heart flutter. I can’t say enough about this good-smelling, high-performing miracle in a bottle! $48 @ Sephora Bliss Triple Oxygenating Moisturizing Cream & Mask Skin need a fix? I use this moisturizing cream daily & the mask weekly (more like 2x a week if I’m being honest). Do yourself a favor and try it out. Brightens, tightens and plumps my skin to perfection. $54 and $52 respectively @ Sephora Mirrored Furniture Delicate. Impractical. Easily ruined. Completely necessary. I can’t help myself, I love mirrored furniture. Whether it be a simple side table or a glamorous vanity, a piece of reflective furniture brightens any space and makes your guests take note. I particularly love an entry console for the dramatic statement it makes in a foyer. Prices vary, seek inspiration @ Horchow and Graham & Green Graham & Brown Wallpaper Just looking at the collections makes me want to move – just so I can decorate an entirely new home. There are many, many fabulous brands out there, but the G & B options never disappoint! $60/roll @ Graham & Brown Wrap Dresses You can’t go wrong with a dress that conforms itself to your body. Genius. This dress is sitting in my online shopping cart at Saks. I’m trying to convince myself I don’t need it, but I am absolutely smitten with it. It’s DVF (the godmother of all wrap dress brands), it’s the perfect color combo (wear with nude, black OR pink heels) and it looks as though it will hug my curves “just so” and do wonders for my “what to wear to dinner tonight” quandary. fab-u-lous! $345 @ Saks and Net-a-porter Built NY Laptop Sleeve This summer I downsized to a 15″ laptop. Life changing! My “office” is now so much more portable than it was when I lugged around a heavy 17″ Powerbook. Best of all, I was able to fit my trusty new Mac into a Jonathan Adler-worthy sleeve. These bright, festive covers from Built NY are easy to hold and add a pop of color to any outfit. Who says work can’t be fun? $36 @ See Jane Work Platform Wedges Let’s just say I’m a girl who could use more height. Platform wedges are my summer essential. They elongate the leg, are a snap to walk in and offer comfort and stability few heels can match. I’m particularly infatuated with these Jimmy Choo Espadrilles. They are the perfect nude-pink that goes with any and everything. Adoring Choo fans rave about their comfort and versatility. $395 @ Net-a-porter (but don’t be too proud to look at the $20 and $30 options everywhere that give these a run for their money! #lifestyle