I’ve been having a love affair with handmade ceramics for years now, and the work of one particular artist has captured my heart - that of French potter, Thierry Doublet. He has been crafting beautiful objects since the 1970s in an unassuming workshop situated in the middle of nowhere, France. How I was first introduced to his work was by way of a casual alfresco dinner on the stone terrace of a centuries old chateau. The owner of the chateau, a marvelous chef, and his lovely wife, served glasses of chilled rosé and the most delicious piment d'espelette shrimp presented in one of Thierry’s large handmade shallow bowls. Sounds dreamy, I know. And it was. Almost immediately, I became obsessed with learning about the ceramicist that created the gorgeous bowl - and how I could add his pieces to my own collection. The very next morning I found myself driving the backroads of the French countryside, making my way to his studio. In the years since I first discovered his work, I have returned again and again each time I visit France.

One of my favorite shops, Elsie Green, just opened up a second location, and it's gorgeous! Their original location has always been a favorite source for inspiration and the design and atmosphere of their new retail space is just as incredible. The bold black and whites mixed with earthy browns are a perfect balance and their selection of wares is unmatched!

Almost everything at Elsie Green is sourced overseas from antique markets and French brocantes, meaning each piece is unique. There's something really special about European antiques - they have character and history that new, manufactured pieces can never replicate. They're one of my favorite home and prop sources when I'm searching for something truly special to add to a space.

The shopping in Amsterdam is just so good. You'll find small independent boutiques dotting nearly every street and I made it my mission to try and pop in as many as I could. It was an easy task, considering their creative window displays and eye catching merchandise were continually luring me inside. Hands down, my favorite shop was de Weldaad. Their selection of antiques, home furnishings, accessories, and textiles were so beautifully curated. I loved the gentle wash of their soft muted color palette and worn wood surfaces displayed throughout the store. It was such a relaxing environment to browse. I seriously wanted to dump everything out of my luggage just so I could pack it up with their wares. Instead, I brought home candles and pillow covers. Sigh.

Every summer, Labor Day fast approaches and we try to squeeze in the last drops of summer fun. Usually, we have a barbecue with family and friends, but this year, The Man and I decided to sneak off to Carmel. We stopped in Tancedi & Morgen so I could get my antiquing fix and I was able to take some photos to share with you. Come along with me! You'll see how charming it is...

I've been on the hunt for furniture and rugs for the new place but haven't had much luck lately. I better get on it, or we're going to move in without a bed, sofa, or dining table, among others. Of course, all is not lost, seems I'm always able to find a little something. I picked up this mortar and pestle while out "poppin tags" with my sister. I loved the pale color and cracks in the bowl. You just can't beat patina.

The Man and I decided to take a little road trip this past weekend. Things have been so busy and we were both looking forward to a getaway. A long drive in the country was the perfect escape.

One of the unexpected pleasures of road tripping is finding hidden gems along the way. Those places you don't intend to come across but are so glad you did.

The Santa Ysabel General Store is just such a place.