October Newsletter

NOTE FROM KI

JUST 3 THINGS.

1. Halloween has overtaken our yard — neon yellow caution tape stretches across the bushes, headstones lean at rakish angles and an 8-foot skeleton stands guard. It’s not quite the vintage holiday look I usually lean toward, but it makes my grandkids squeal with delight. Their excitement is infectious. So yes, I’m all in. Trick or treat!
2. Back from a cooking tour in Tuscany with @whereincookingholidays! We rolled Pici pasta, simmered chicken cacciatore, visited a cheese farm, an ancient grains pasta factory, a winery and ate our way through several cozy trattorias. Siena stole my heart. I returned with new recipes, a suitcase stuffed with made-in-Italy goodies and wine on the way. Next adventure: Africa in 2026!
3. I’m looking forward to sweater weather — and yes, even the holidays. This year I’m determined to skip the last-minute rush. Instead, I plan to savor the little things: adding new vintage tree ornaments, baking fruit tarts with my grandkids and maybe even sending handmade holiday cards.

Cheers to adventures —and to all things vintage, of course!

Ki

VISIONS OF CHRISTMAS. For those who love holiday decorating and care about animals, Fifi O’Neill’s new book, Visions of Christmas, reflects the season’s spirit of giving. Every penny from its sales supports shelters and rescue groups across the country, helping animals find safe and loving homes. Read More.

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS! Annie Sloan's motto is "Paint everything! Pick up a paintbrush and have a go! You don't need experience, once you start, you'll find your rhythm and you'll never look back!" Check out Annie's Instagram here. And visit her website to explore the world of decorating possibilities and ideas using Chalk Paint®.

ALL IN THE FAMILY. Hand-me-downs from relatives and well-used pieces from strangers give this 1800s Pennsylvania farmstead its one-of-a-kind appeal. Read More.

COLLECTING SMALL. Steven Burke and his husband, Randy Campbell, found American folk art buildings an engaging balance to work and, in retirement, a compelling endeavor. The collection started three decades ago when Burke spent almost all of his $183 tax refund on his first folk art house. Now, about 1,300 structures are on display in Burke and Campbell’s North Carolina home. View a short video about their collection and learn more about folk art homes.

COLOR CRUSHING. When you’re craving a lift of color and design, Suzanne Tucker Home on Instagram is pure inspiration. Get your fix with furnishings, beautiful textiles and decor ideas to try at home.