Shopping

I find myself going into lots of different boutiques and shops at this time of year. It is when I am usually on a mission to find that "perfect gift" for someone, that invariably, I find that "perfect gift" for me!
I LOVE shoes, not killer tall heels, I prefer flats or kitten heels. I have been searching for a pair of red flats to replace my BCBG patent leather ones that I found at Nordstroms' in Seattle and completely wore out. Now you are probably wondering HOW can that happen to a shoe collector. Well, those little red gems put a bounce in my step and if I was feeling tired or had a challenging day ahead or if I felt like raising my happy meter well, I'd choose those little red numbers and VOILA Happy Times!
I am sad to say that I am still on the hunt for the new reds...why are they so elusive? In the meantime, I found some really cute brown leather Nine West flats that I didn't really know that I needed until I put them on!

Yesterday I was shopping on The Avenue, and found a soft mocha "Ca va de soi" tank made from Italian yarn. It feels like a cashmere jersey, so comfy! I love the fabrics that Ca va de soi use in their garments!

I purchased a black jersey pocket cardigan from Gilmour to layer over top of the tank. I will be layering multiple strands of pearls on top and I already have black pants and a black skirt so I am set for the holiday gatherings where I do not want to wear one of my LBD's.

I do not know much about the Gilmour company and can't find them on the internet. The small boutique had various pieces and all were just under the $100 price point. The designs are simple, the fabrics are soft and the color range was blacks, greys and taupes. The company must be small and quite possibly a local one.

I prefer to shop in small boutiques where there are helpful, friendly, and  knowledgeable staff. It was a pleasant experience trying on the garments.  The sales clerk knew her stock and what would work with my curvy figure and between the two of us we quickly had gathered up about a dozen "possibles" which I tried on, narrowing down the choices. I am pleased with my purchases and have signed up on their email list so that I will get advance notice of new stock and sales.

This is the same shop where I buy my lacy knickers! I have discovered what I consider to be THE BEST panty ever!  Hanky Panky  are a thong, and so comfortable and come in a wide variety of colors

Have you purchased a "gift" for yourself this season?

Vintage in the Humble Bungalow

I found this miniature bureau in an antique shop and fell in love with it. I was told that it might have been a traveling sales mans' sample piece.  I knew that it would be invaluable for storage of small things in my 1913 home.

Tiffany necklace which I wrap twice around my wrist and use as a bracelet.

West Coast First Nations Baskets

I love baskets and find they can be beautiful as well as functional.

This wee carving is a mouse, it is unusual. More commonly depicted in carvings are Frogs, Ravens, Eagles, Salmon, Whales and Seals.

Vintage West Coast First Nations Baskets in the Humble Bungalow

  

 Contemporary Sterling silver salad servers

in an early First Nations basket.

The Humble Bungalow lends itself to items from nature. The arts and crafts philosophy evolved from the Victorian era almost as a protest to the clutter and excesses that were common in Victorian times. Honest, simple understated designs using organic natural materials often found on site or locally gave the architect and builder their inspiration.

People were breaking away from the need to amass and accumulate.

Furniture styles were simplified and many pieces were made by the home craftsman. Patterns for furnishing projects were commonplace and featured simple unadorned designs.  Companies that did produce furniture printed and distributed catalogues from which the homeowner could order from.

Our furniture is mostly from that early arts and crafts period. The pieces that we own are in what is commonly referred to as "museum condition" meaning that they have not been refinished and the blemishes that have been acquired over the years are retained.

One chair in particular has a flat and heavy armrest into which someone, likely a child, has carved R.I.P. with a cemetery cross!

As the current resident of the Humble Bungalow I have chosen to decorate within these parameters of simplicity, form and function.

Collecting vintage and using items from nature are most appropriate.

Berried branches from the boulevard in a vintage Weller vase.

Mrs. Plant, a former long time resident of the Humble Bungalow.

She raised 3 children in this small home, tended her cottage garden and worked as a dressmaker to support the family.

The Humble Bungalow is on the Heritage Registry to save it from demolition in the future. Our job is to maintain and preserve it for the next generation.

Horsing around (my neck!)

Hermes does equestrian better than the rest.

I have ridden a horse although it seems long ago. My sister rides, and jumps and has had a passion for ponies as long as I can remember.  She trains young riders and has a home with a barn and paddocks on the property. Owning a horse, or horses, is a lot of work, not to mention the cost!
 I have not ridden since, at 6 months pregnant, I was thrown off. I was shaken up but not hurt. (Baby was fine)
My idea of riding a horse now would involve a horse drawn carriage!

 I found this Hermes scarf in a local consignment shop. I have no idea why it was there when I happened to pop in and browse.
Serendipity?
It was a fortuitous find indeed!

Designed by Hubert de Watrigant, entitled "Real Escula Andaluza Del Arte Equestre."

The colors are vibrant, the classic hand rolled edging is superb. It truly is a work of art by an amazing artist, produced by experienced Hermes craftsmen and women with their dedication and high standards of quality.

I like to wrap this around my neck to add a splash of color to my simple white T and jeans.

        It is not enough for a man to know how to ride; he must also know how to fall. -- Mexican proverb



What have you "fallen" for ?

Was it  an expensive or frugal purchase and how do you feel about it?

I love a bargain or a fabulous find, luxe for less fits in the Humble Bungalow best!

In the Family Way

I am so happy! There is a buzz in the family, Mr. L and I are going to be grandparents. I cannot even begin to describe the excitement and joy that is in the air.
I was somewhat maniacal when we were planning the wedding....it was a year (3 years ago)  of all consuming details, and I must admit, that it was so worth it to plan ahead.  That day was a testament to good planning, a great venue, fabulous friends, family, florists, talented musicians, expert caterers, and the weather gods smiled down upon us.

I want to be called grammy and Mr.L wants to be gramps. All I really want is to have a healthy grand baby. I have researched prams, (new ones) for the parents and vintage for us. There is nothing like that feeling of perambulating on the waterfront in a high pram in the fresh air.
I have rediscovered local baby shops and am acquiring gifts at warp speed. Christmas this year will have an extra special focus and I am ever so grateful and suitably humbled. I feel blessed.

Privilege

I am relatively new to blogs and even newer to blogging. I enjoy many diverse blogs and one of my favorites is called privilege  and LPC the host, has several hundred followers. She recently posted a list of 5 Minimalist Luxury Credos which are extremely interesting. The topic has caused quite a stir and the comments left by readers are passionate and numerous. I encourage anyone reading my Humble Bungalow blog to go over and visit.
What are you wearing today?