Sunflower Picking

Nothing signals the change from summer to fall like the appearance of sunflowers, mums, and pumpkins. Yes, I know it is still August but I am always thinking about fall...

This year I visited Maize Valley winery for the first time in Hartville, OH. I was impressed with their grounds and the venue areas of the facility right from the start but you know my heart was stolen when I saw the goats wondering free on the property as well. 

The sunflower festival hosted a few vendors in one area as well as their shop and restaurant being open. I was here for the sunflower picking though and quickly made my way to the hayride that would deliver me into the golden fields. 

A little bit of fall on its way its now cheerily in my kitchen on the island!

What symbolizes fall on the horizon for you? Comment below. 

Holiday Shopping

Despite my English "snobbishness" for brands and Italian affinity to "high end", I have discovered two new treasure troves for shopping during this past year...both of which may seem odd... but are wonderful stores I highly recommend for gift shopping.

The first is Tractor Supply Company.... I know right! But I am dead serious! While they are not full of the same decor and holiday zeal as my second recommendation, they are full of wonderful gift ideas from cute clothes, boots, scarves and gloves, right down to farm house decor items...... and how can you beat this cute gift wrap I used from there this year?!?

The second store that has become a new favorite is Petitti's.... I know they are a chain here in Northeast Ohio but unsure exactly how far they reach. If you have one anywhere near you, I highly recommend you stop in... it is NOT your neighborhood nursery anymore! I actually bought quite a few gifts here this year and their holiday displays far beat any department store I visited this year!

Comment below... what new gold mines did you find this ear for holiday shopping?