A week back from vacation and boy does it feel good to be home. Yes, I miss the breezy perfection that was the nor-cal air; but nothing beats mornings waking up in our cozy home with my two loves. And since our trip out west kicked Maddie into a routine of 12 hour sleeps, I've had a little extra energy to spruce up the house, organize MM's wardrobe (this girl's a-growing) and spend some extra time in the kitchen during these last few dog days of summer. Hope you're enjoying the last licks of the season! Happy Friday!

This special hand-painted birthday present from two very special guys that I finally got around to framing this week |

A pair of fall-ready boots for MM from Nana, the shoe fairy |

When I was young, I used a step stool handmade by my pops to reach the bathroom sink. For MM's birthday, he made her this beauty, and I can't wait for her to brush her teeth while using it. Also, these crocs are her new obsession. Even though they're way too big.

Our first case of wine from our trip to Napa |

But before the summer ends, you first enjoy the white |