At Play in the Windy City

We're a lucky bunch.  A couple of our favorite people call Chicago their home and we get to pay them a visit from time to time in their glorious city.  Over the years we've visited during the bitter cold of winter and my husband and I even ran a marathon during a late fall heat wave.  You never quite know what you'll get here.   Our most recent trip however coincided with some of the most perfect weather I've ever had.  

Two days before we left for our trip, a highly anticipated delivery came from Zimmerman Shoes.  These handcrafted beauties made their way from Eastern PA to Boston and got right back on the road to join us in Chicago.  They are made from the softest suede that you can imagine in the richest of tones.  And please do not glance over the laces.  Its not a detail I normally notice but these are truly something special.  They tie up like a charm into a neat and tidy bow and remain that way even after a day of walking the city.  

Elise was asked to collect some leaves and nature for a class project at school this week so we got right to work scouring the streets of Chicago for some unique items to bring home.  The colors of her findings made a perfect match to her fall ensemble.  It is the age of twirly skirts and tutu dresses but that all becomes so much more tolerable when we come across gems like this beautiful rust colored piece from Alaskan brand, The Tame Fox.  It is one of those garments that adds depth to a wardrobe without even trying and the construction is beyond amazing!

Every winter season we acquire one pair of tights that seem to work well with almost everything.  The accessory of the season for us has to be these Caramel Baby & Child Pointelle Tights.  I first noticed these lovely tights on a fall campaign for one of our favorite collections.  After some digging I came across the source and ordered a pair straight away.  Caramel Baby & Child is without a doubt one of my favorite stores to visit during our travels.  We've stumbled across them in Tokyo and New York and each location offers lovely treasures for all the littles in your life.  

It is hard to imagine this backyard oasis is in the center of a bustling city!  The vegetation is lush and the decor is inviting.  We always feel right at home in Chicago thanks to wonderful friendships and magical spaces.  

Blueberry Bunny

People often ask me what there is to do in Vermont over the summer.  Many know northern Vermont as a winter playground in the cooler months.  After all, skiing is what brought my husband and I here years ago.  Well, beyond the hiking, river swimming, craft beer tasting, and outdoor concerts, you can add blueberry picking to the list.  This pick your own blueberry farm is only a short drive from downtown Stowe, accessed by a windy dirt road reminiscent of a fairytale forest.  

Speaking of fairytales, this red corduroy cape from Tortoise and the Hare seems as if it has jumped out of the pages of a favorite bedtime story.  Not all reds are created equal and this one is divine.  It is the same color as the barns here in Vermont, a wonderful muted red that pairs well with everything.

If you're looking for the perfect transitional piece for Fall, this should be at the top of your list.  The cape is lined with a soft bamboo fleece that is oh so cozy.  I've said it before, and I'm sure I'll say it again, these pieces are cut to perfection.

Oh Willaby how we love thee!  After years of buying leggings in every color and length for Elise I was so excited to find a pair of summer pants that weren't skin tight and had the perfect amount of slouch.  The cotton is airy and soft and looks incredible wash after wash.  I adore everything this brand stands for and their commitment to high quality, ethically produced items.  Check out their story here and swoon over their new fall pieces.

Have any favorite blueberry recipes?  Please let me know!  These berries are in our freezer waiting to be eaten.

Wildflowers of Nantucket

The title of this post is actually the name of a wildflower guide I found on island last week which I'm still regretting not purchasing.  Nantucket is a magical place in many regards and can attract a wide array of visitors as a result.  I love that every time we visit, we uncover something new about the island.  For the first time, this year Bartlett's Farm offered wildflower picking tours and it was a messy adventure but oh so worth it.  

The day before our flower tour, a special little package arrived from the coveted new label Tortoise & the Hare Clothing out of Lancaster County, PA.  Rosina has designed a collection of the most precious heirloom quality pieces.  We were thrilled to learn about this new brand and snag a few items from her first release.  I think Elise has worn this gingham blouse three out of the last four days.  The cut is superb and it wears beautifully.  And wooden buttons up the back, need I say more?

We happen to be a hat family.  Much like those who collect sunglasses or other accessories, we like our hats.  Elise was the first in our family to get a Peter Beaton followed by my husband and then finally I had to join the party and get one too.  If you're ever on island, please visit this adorable hat studio, tucked away down an enchanting alleyway visiting the shop is an experience in itself!

We heart wooden buttons....

Elise enjoyed helping me arrange our wildflowers when we returned to the house.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed Bartlett's Farm offers this tour again next year!