mason jars

Mason jars are extremely versatile and easily used for many projects other than the standard canning thought. Originally The jars were created with a wax seal enclosure that often leaked due to being sealed improperly while in the canning process. The contemporary version of mason jars were invented in 1858 by tinsmith John Landis, now with metal screw cap. Shortly after  the Ball corporation bought the patent rights to manufacture the jars, they experimented with color, the most famous, "Ball blue" was discontinued in the 1950's and today is considered a collectors item. I love using mine as glassware and incorporating them into a bit more rustic tablescape. Etsy vendor, DoodleBirdie, turns hers into beach terrariums, though you are not limited to only sand, you can use succulents or other small flora to create the look you are going for. I think one of the more romantic way to use them is in a grouping of odd sizes and shapes to create a candle centerpiece to any engagement that you are hosting. 

tycho

Tycho has been in my ear for the last week. It has become an obsession to listen to. The album Dive, is incredibly synth with focus on guitars and drums. The music is uncomplicated, relaxed, and airy. When you listen you can't help but get a beat in your head, as most of the bass lines are quite catchy. The band focuses on painting an image from sound, and sound alone. There are no lyrics which may seem off putting at first, but it is easily bought into. 

the man

Heavy, rich, smokey, and just a touch of sweetness, this drink is perfect for a late fall evening. 

Ingredients:

1 part Amaretto liquor

2 part Sailor Jerry  

Create:

Place large ice cubes in rocks glass, pour over ice. 

plaid bathroom

Plaid is a great bathroom accessory, it adds a little more depth than the standard solid colors. One of my personal favorites are the Organic Bath Towel, from ecobold, in blue and yellow gingham. The towel is 100% vegan cotton. And for a cleaner look the jacquard plaid bath towels in grey and white from Nautica would be a great choice.  

victor chair

WOW! All I can say is wow! This chair from West Elm, is simply amazing. The Victor chair in plaid heathered wool is stately and very masculine. The mismatched button tufting allows for a handmade appeal. It's size is more than comfortable to crawl into and read a book and the seat is soft enough to feel like you can sit in the chair for hours. Think about pairing it to a nice leather sofa that has been weathered well. 

mackintosh

Fall is the season of unexpected rainfall, quickly changing weather, and heavy winds. One of the best ways to overcome the foul elements is a weather proof mackintosh. The mackintosh was originally sold in 1824 in Scotland, created from rubberized fabric. The coat was originally a single breasted jacket that had a tall fold over collar and hood. It was originally designed to protect longshoreman from the ever changing port weather. Today the mac has little changed, though the materials and the colors most definitely evolved. Most recently Gap teamed up with designer Tom Snyder and in the collection they created the cadet parka in orange pulp, the color is spot on and the fit is slouchy which allows room for your heavier sweaters.  

garden of the gods

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Garden of the Gods, Colorado. The park has a fantastic expansive trail that weaves around such a majestic scenery. The mountains and rock formations just tower above you. The trail was easily navigable, though extremely long. When going in warmer weather it is preferred to have two water bottles per person, if you are making the trek, this is not only due to the lack of humidity, but also due to altitude difference. For the avid adventurer there are many areas for rock climbing, steep trails, and rugged bike paths. Geological formations like fossils, alluvial fans, and brightly colored sedimentary rock beds litter the park and are denoted with markers. The park is truly a sight to behold, you can feel absolutely dwarfed in the landscape. Check their calendar for events and their visitor center web page for any tail closures or climbing restrictions (there is usually none) before you travel. 

gumballhead

Tonight is a great night to chill with friends and drink deep into a great beer that encompasses the relaxed night. Gumballhead from Three Floyds' is that beer. The beer that is named for the the comic book cat created by Rob Syers is tart and and complex, like its moniker would so advise. The tastes are marmalade, peach, grapefruit, lemon, and nice kick of hops. The flavor is the perfect transition away the overtly sweet shandies or crisp lagers into something a bit more interesting on the tongue. Lasting description: Very full flavor, easily drank and highly enjoyable. 

vest

Here comes the time of the year where you walk out in the morning and its 43 degrees, by lunch it's 65, and when you go home at five its 52. You don't want a coat, because you'll be sweating on your lunch, you don't want to NOT wear anything, because you'll be two cold. This is where I recommend the vest. Originally, used as an additional layering piece in formal-ware that became an independent staple as a sign of being an accountant or banker, then later became a symbol of the american west gunslingers. The goose down version of the vest was first manufactured by Eddie Bauer, in 1936. Eventually, the garment ballooned to what it is now, varying in detail and measured in warmth and functionality and its ability to harbor, "Yo, McFly!" references. The vest is a great option of the avid hiker who would prefer to not bring something heavy for the longer walks in the cooler altitudes.  

abc home

One of my favorite places in NYC to go to is abc home. They are among the best curated stores in the city. They tend to have a huge collection handmade ceramics, atelier fragrances, and great flooring options. Though, I tend to skip that and head straight to their raw vintage furniture. They always have some of the best selections of previously loved and roughed up furniture. I currently love the orange gardening chair (pair that with a dark metal desk!) and the metal storage cabinet (not that I would ever need to file that much stuff) that they have listed. If you are in the neighborhood, take a peak its definitely worth looking. For the rest of us, we have the internet. 

youth lagoon

Beyond words. I am officially head over heals with Youth Lagoon. The last 12 hours have been fueled by The Year of Hibernation. The album is distinctly ethereal, with haunting vocals, and extremely full sound; it is definitely one to experience. He deals with dysphoria and bases his work in minimalism and ambiance. Youth Lagoon, moniker of Trevor Powers, is currently based out of Boise, Idaho.

archival clothing

LOVE! I just found my new favorite brand! Archival, Based in the US, their focus is on quality goods that are highly functional, and maintain well. Just perusing through their very concise online catalogue, I found something in each category that I loved. Above are a sample from their most recent collection. The roll top bag in carmine duck is so versatile that you can wear daily or on a camping excursion (the belt on the top is made long enough to store a sleeping pad). Check out their fun blog and store at Archival. 

branches

The use of branches in any space allows the outdoors, in. Anytime they are used they instantly become a focal point of the room due to the organic lines of the the wood and how they play off the the ridged lines of the furniture surrounding them. When needing a room divider go big like the installation from Blue Nature, trees limbs are mounted directly in to the lacquered stainless steel plating and curved for effect. I love Rustic Designs use of peeled mountain laurel to create a beautiful, gnarly, chandelier for a recording studio. And lastly, if you do want to bring a cleaner line to the room and unusual shelving arrangement, instructable's use of paint and shelves brings a sleeker look to a very organic idea. 

canoe

A canoe is small rather narrow open toped boat that is propelled by man powered paddling. Canoes have been dated as far back as 8000 BC, which is known as the Pesse Canoe, an Norwegian boat that was originally carved from a log. Originally they were fashioned from tree trunks, then later birch bark was preferred due to is malleability and ability to be sewn. Later canvas was used, and more in more modern times aluminum an polyethylene. Today canoes are slowly being replaced by the popularity of the kayak, and their tour-ability. Modern shops have popped up to bring the pleasure of canoeing to more people, like that of Old Town Canoe, who still creates vintage throw backs created from wood. Or you can find actual vintage ones at resale shops like Oklahoma Barn Market, which I love. There is something about slowly paddling down a down a river with a few friends to set up day camp for an afternoon excursion that I truly enjoy! Cue the bonfire and beers!

abercrombie & fitch

Before Abercrombie & Fitch was a teenage brand full of half naked people in their their catalog it was camping lifestyle brand. The company was founded in 1892 and notably sold tents, fishing rods and rifles for huntsman. Former catalogs hosted fully illustrated women's and mens fashions, with focus on the rustic sportsman. Later the company opened multiple stores and brought their catalog to life with beautiful full scale installations of camp scenes, forests, and rivers. In 1977 the company closed their doors due to chapter 11 bankruptcy. In 1978 the company was bought out by Oshman's Sporting Goods, and again was reinvented to the casual lifestyle brand that we are aware of today. I like to wonder, what the company would have been today if it stayed sporting goods. 

airstream

Sometimes you just want to travel in style, and what better way to see the sights than in an Airstream. The RV was first created by Wally Byam in 1936. During the Depression, the Airstream was the sole surviving company, and massively rebounded in the 1940's where America showed more interest in travel. The campers originally debuted  with lodging for 2, and an eat in dinette. In modern times the coach has become a behemoth in its own right. With sleeping capacity up to 6 full kitchen and partial living/dining. The camper still touts its ability to have a roll away awning, and stairs to the roof if needed. To this day the camper is know for its timeless style and reminds us that there are many places we haven't personally explored, and now is the opportunity. 

fall potting

Potting plants in the fall?! Now, why we you want to do something like that? Even though the weather is changing, NOW is the time to plant. Most people think that you should undertake such efforts in the spring. Well, that is not true. You can still plant a large variety of fall foliage like kale, ornamental peppers, mums, or most variety of evergreen, that will last the whole season into November. If you are planting a shrub or bulb, and are hard set on transplanting it into the ground, you MUST do this 3-4 weeks before the first frost, otherwise the roots will not have enough time to acclimate to their new environment. What I do want to detail is the ability to house indoor plants that will last you through the winter. Now, is the time to plant your indoor herb garden. The southern sun is still strong enough to give your plants the push they need to be hearty before the temperature drops. When it does become an average of 50 degree or lower, you will want to ensure that your plants are near, but not on or too close, to a heart source, this will ensure constant growth. When planting herbs around this time, I prefer basil, lavender, and rosemary, these have the lasting power and heartiness to last through winter if you are careful. You can check out more tips at Gethsemane Gardens. 

moby-dick

"Call me Ishmael." Is the opening sentence to the magnificent tome, Moby-Dick. Written by Herman Melville, and published in 1851, it is a modern epic. The book follows the adventures of Ishmael, a wandering sailor, and his voyage on the whaler Pequod. The book establishes early on as a character study of most of the crew and their own trials with this particular voyage. Though through this novel the tone changes from a dark comedy to intense look of the "fishing" business with copious details of whale species. Melville later turns the plot from the the aforementioned to Ahab's motivation and later spiral to madness. As this is a book that most of us were supposed to read (and probably didn't) and now the book is holding portions of a DVD shelving unit, it is worth picking up for the 600 page novel. It  might not be a fast paced page turner, though the adventure of a life time that these men face is worth the time. With haunting, and mythic undertones this book is perfect for a September read.

cobalt

Cobalt is a beautiful color, and amazing to work with. It adds a deep rich hue that adds a little drama. Cobalt has had a long history, it has been documented to be used as smalt (cobalt glass) since 14th century BC and has been found in many shipwrecks of the time. It was later popularized in the Chinese Tang dynasty in white and blue pottery as tea pots. If you are looking at pure cobalt under glass ultraviolet light, the color becomes an even richer hue. While searching for rugs, I found the Bursa rug from West Elm it has a worn indian look that looks vintage. I loved the look of the the wingback chair found on Manly Vintage, imagine pairing it with a cowhide rug in next to a leather chesterfield. I couldn't resist the campfire mugs from  Splendid's Wholesale.  And when it gets warm enough to have dinner outside Luxembourg table from Fermob would be perfect. 

thermos

Last week I spent a few days hunting the resale shops in Chicago and found that some of the stores already were bringing out their holiday displays. One of the objects that constantly was reoccurring was vintage Thermos containers. The classic 1950's plaid in red and black when paired with cedar and cypress reminds me of Christmas. When paired with vintage books, and faux taxidermy it becomes a library staple. I also love the hanging planter twist that Design Sponge does. Whatever you do with them they will bring color and a vintage appeal. 

saugatuck

Saugatuck, Michigan is one of the Midwest's hidden gems. Located 2 hours north of Chicago, on one of the more prettier interstates I have encountered, it is a home away from home. The locale is easy, and home town feel. The downtown has many boutique shops that specialize in food and kitchen ware. The Spice Merchants have an amazing store, and hundreds of flavors that are hand milled. The Butler Pantry is one of my favorite places to pick up fun kitchen equipment. Since the downtown is located on the harbor you can grab a drink at the Mermaid Bar and Grill and watch the boats come in. I like to make a trip to Saugatuck Brewing Co. and trying out their latest brews. If your into wine  I recommend taking a trip to Fenn Valley Winery and take one of their very informative tours. There is also the wonderful Oval beach that draws my attention, located next to a sand dune the scene is quite picturesque and water is always calm. I recommend going in the summer, though the city never shuts down and has many winter activities. 

driftwood

Driftwood is wood that has been washed ashore. The wood gets its characteristic white look from the the woods decomposition while reacting to the natural levels of chlorine in water. Wood that has been collected from salt water sources will have a smoother more even texture due to the dioxins that have built in the wood from soaking in seawater. These dioxins are rather toxic and carcinogenic if burned, though harmless otherwise. Since driftwood is a natural decomposed material it rarely needs to be treated if you are working with it, unless it is of a larger installation. Driftwood in many states can give your home beach cabin look, I like drivvt's use of the material in a chandelier, or pottery barn's use of it in a more contemporary mirror. Mix and match succulents in a driftwood container like vivaterra offers. The most interesting use of it was produced by an artist on San Juan, who created hollow spheres that were placed back on the shoreline and can be linked though The Ragens website. 

hot toddy

The perfect night cap to warm you up on a cool evening: the Hot Toddy. If you prefer a cold version of this drink there is the: brown derby. 

ingredients:

1 oz brandy, whisky, rum or tequila.

1 Tbsp honey

1/4 lemon

1 cup hot water

1 tea bag

preparation:

coat the bottom of a mug with honey.

add liquor and the juice of the lemon quarter.

on the side, heat water in tea kettle and add the tea bag to make hot tea. 

pour the steaming tea in to glass and stir. 

beat connection

Singing guitars, base, haunting vocals, and the sound of the sea. This sums up Beat Connection. I can imagine starting a bon fire on the beach and watching the waves roll in, while drinking a cold beer to enjoy the summer a little bit longer. Their album Surf Noir, is full of music to chill out to. 

succulents

Succulents are a great, "all year round" house variety. Being that the plants are water retaining, it can easily be forgotten about and still grow in peace. During the fall its recommended to water once to twice a month and let the soil completely dry out. The plants themselves have little to no root base so they can be smashed together as close as possible for an arrangement, though if left separately; depending on the species of the succulent  it will grow quite tall, and possibly woody. Being that you are able to keep the plants tightly bound you can hang them vertically or horizontally with out much soil needed at the core, and can create some unique arrangements. If your looking for something tall and bushy go with Pencil Cactus Euphorbia tirucalli, though be careful the waxy substrate that can rupture is extremely toxic. A smaller plant that has a variety of colors from deep green to brilliant red are Chicks and Hens Crassulaceae. 

jason laferrera

As I was looking for my last entry on maps I came across these little gems. Created by Etsy artist Jason Laferrera he creates art from maps that have been repurposed into woodland animals. The butter cream sky, and the brick tones bring a wonderful vintage quality. I can definitely see this series in my place. you can follow his website. 

maps

Everyone uses maps in their daily life, going from point A to point B. In the digital world most of us use mapquest or our phones to get us where we need to go, latest incarnation is asking Apple's personal assistant Siri to just dictate the directions to you. As nice as it is to have the directions force fed to you, their are not all that visually attractive. Maps in paper form allow for visual and textual experience. Today most people take an attractive oversized map and frame it accordingly. You can find all sorts of maps; vintage, modern updates, local, and abstract. Paper Source always has a wonderful selection to choose from. One of my favorite places in Chicago, Foursided, focus on large frames, and maps often show up in their store. I also love when They are used as table runners during a party, folded like origami, or used as gift wrap.  

copper

The hottest color of the season is Copper. It is rich, deep and extremely mature. The color pairs well with reclaimed woods, cast iron, and vibrant greens. I would highly suggest bringing this in smaller qualities, as two much can be tacky, overbearing, and feel 1970's. The beauty of the material is that as it matures and oxygenates the color will slowly become green unless polished. 

chesterfield sofa

Nothing is as classic as a chesterfield sofa. Originally an English estate sofa, the item came to the US as a library sofa in provincial New England homes in the 1800's.  The lines harken back to the equestrian lifestyle, refined but rustic. The sofa can come in all colors and textures like the Chester Sofa from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. My favorites are usually in the richest darkest brown you can find specifically Restoration Hardware's Cognac Leather, especially when the leather has been overly distressed. The sofa tends to has a straight back, rolled arms and tight spindle legs, other iterations have a slightly sloping back that duals as a lounge as in the Beverly Sofa from Williams-Sonoma. Tufting is mandatory along the seat back and the arms, and can be along the base of the seat and sometimes the seat cushion. Sofas created with the highest quality will be extremely plush and firm box seat cushions and will have nail heads down the front of the sofa arm. 

freemans sporting club

Ever since I went to NYC, I have fallen in love with FSC's Bleeker street location. What is amazing about this brand is that they constantly are reinventing 1950's sportsman style. You can find a wide range of ready made pieces that are available to be tailored if you need. FSC also brings small touches of leather accessories, backpacks, and the the most amazing scented candle (cedar, cypress and lime, just to name a few) that smells like a campfire. What they truly succeed in is the hand crafted beauty of the goods they put their name on them. 

parlours

Walking through the city with a scarf and sweater on I can't help but feel that this this band captures the change from the warmer weather. I recommend checking out the Parlours website and listening a little deeper with this band! 

m-65

It just got cold out! And with that, Fall and all of its cool, over cast glory has finally arrived. What better way to keep your self warm and stylish: the field jacket. Originally issued as the code named "m-65," designed by the US military, in 1965 to replace it's previous model, the m-1951, which had button cuffs and a pointed collar, to the new velcro cuff and straight banded collar. The jacket was made from 9-oz wind resistance waxed cotton that was used to keep foot soldiers warm in the field, hence the name.  It was brought in to popular culture by Robert De Niro in Taxi Driver in 1976, and from there on any character with edge wore one. The jacket has been on designers eye sight for years and mildly updating the look from J.Crew's olive drab version to Ralph Lauren's version with fur collar. Kai-Aakmann updated the look for fall 2012 in black, while Belstaff threw all the bells and whistles into what was once a humble jacket. 

canteen

The canteen has been a staple of any traveler. We use an updated version of them even today, while commuting with our coffee's or while completing our daily work-out at the gym. Canteens originally started as a either a hollowed out gourd or a bladder made from leather. After glass became a staple, they were transitioned into bottles since this medium rarely leaked. And again updated around the 1900's to tin or aluminum since they were easily manufactured, being that these metals were readily available at the start of the first World War. In the 1950's plastic became the most cost effective manufacturing process, and with that the canteen made it to modern civilization. Canteens were a not only a personal water source but were apart of many customs. When one traveler entered a town, canteens were often refilled as a symbol of kindness. While during the wars they were shared between rationing platoons as a symbol of brotherhood. As canteens are relics of decades past they are now collectable and come in a variety of shapes and colors. I like giving them as gifts in lieu of flasks. 

two hearted ale

Fall is on it's way. The temperature is barely hitting 72 degrees, the air is slightly brisker, and people are wearing sweaters more predominantly. With that, my beverage pallet changes. Instead of the citrus noted lagers of the summer, I am craving a slightly heartier ale. The one seasonal standout is Bell's Two Hearted Ale. This IPA has a deeper hop and maltiness that brings out the fall season. Bell's touts the 7.0% APV generous flavor is enhanced by grapefruit and pine resin aromas, that leave a clean taste. Two Hearted Ale is available all year round (at least here in Chicago), and pairs well with the richer, starchier, and creamier foods that we tend to consume in autumn. My guilty pleasure is a good veggie burger and this brew to round out my evening. Cheers!

dhurrie

Dhurrie's are a fantastic addition to any rustic home. As a standard the rug is primarily a flat knit wool rug with an intricate pattern that is symbolic to the region it is from. Navajo rugs tend be reds, pinks, and oranges with tightly woven stripes that have intricate patterns. Dhurrie's from India, tend to be deep and rich in color with mandala patterns or diamonds. Being that the rugs tend to be wool and thiner, they hold up incredibly well. The richer colors stay beautifully dark, and will not fade as quickly since they are over-dyed. Even though the rugs are hand knit they can be found on the cheap!  

blackbird blackbird

Hallow and etherial, Blackbird Blackbird, hooks with catchy rhythm that continues through their album Halo. Originally from San Francisco the band most recently has grown underground popularity. Their sound is rather interesting, the mix is quite analog with electronic overtones, while it stays sort of pop-ish, and never strays from its alternative routes.

warby parker

I love a good throw back. If you haven't had a chance to get acquainted with Warby Parker's eyewear selection now is the time! Their frames are kick back to 1950's classic style. The company also is humble, they give a donation of a pair of glasses for every time you purchase yours! I love my pair of Winston's in Old Fashioned Fade, though I think my next pair might be Thatcher's in Revolver Black. You can't beat the price, for $95, no tax, and no shipping it's practically a steal!

amber glass

Amber glass is a great way to bring a neutral tone into your home. It creates a more formal masculine clean work when in the bathroom. One of my favorite collections is from Restoration Hardware it adds a vintage pharmacy feel. Amber glass was popularized by chemists in apothecary's. The thought was that the light wouldn't be able to permeate the medicine within the same theory became popularized by the beer industry to avoid UV light in the brew. The Amber glass later transitioned into the orange pill bottles we now know.

chambray

Chambray is seeing a reemergence recently in fashion. Chambray originally called Chambric was invented in France as a broad weave linen that was able to be shaped and constructed more intricately than other fabrics, a popular color at that time was the marled rose color used as corsages and structured ruffled. The fabric then became more popular as a heavy duty fabric that stood up to the rigors of mill and field work. The deepest rinse color became a popular favorite in the french revolution as a symbol of the proletariat. In modern day, chambray is a staple in any closet that can be dressed up or left casual. Some of my seasonal favorites are american apparel, j. crew, and levi's. As we move into fall I'll probably be paring it with everything! 

emeco 1006

The Emeco 1006 code named Navy Chair, was produced first in Hanover, Pennsylvania; and commissioned by the US Navy for use aboard battleships. The idea was that the aluminum chair would hold up to the rigors of sea faring and withstand torpedo blasts on the side of a ship. The chair held up so well that it surpassed all expectations of the Navy Commission, so much so, that it was implemented on all ships manufactured during 1940. Currently the chair is a selling staple at Room & Board, Design Within Reach, and Hive. Because of its manufacturing process it is available in a wide range of colors, though the original aluminum steals my heart every time. I'm a fan of it when it's paired with a great reclaimed table or dark wood desk!    

field watch

If its good enough for the US Army, its probably good enough for you. The US military is always on the for front of new technology and always fixing things that isn't broken. That being said the field watch has stood the test of time. The mechanisms on the inside may have gone through an overhaul in the 1990's to ensure that the military works in unison, though little has changed on the outside. The watch is usually required to either be a black colored face with white numbers, or a sand colored face with graphite numbers. There must always be 60 second hash marks and equilateral triangles at each hour marker. Notably, this watch has two  bars on the north and south of the watch so you may switch out the band as you prefer. Stores today currently sell bands that you can swap out or, you can settle for a more permanent leather solution. Either way you go, you will have a piece of classic Americana ticking away on your wrist. 

indian vs indian

Just peaking at Indian vs Indian's Etsy online shop I cant help but want everything I see. From the Pendleton benches and stools, to the repurposed totes, I am in LOVE. How great would one of those cots look nested smartly behind a sofa, or in a sun room. It just makes me think about picking up a book and a strong cup of coffee and enjoying a lazy sunday afternoon. The color choices the brand makes are so vibrant while staying pleasing without over powering the room. 

light it up

Lighting sets the mood, and nothing is moodier than neo-industrial lamps. Some seasonal wins are from Anthropologie, West Elm, and Restoration Hardware. The sheer architecture of these lamps brings a cozy feeling of a time past, and definitely adds visual texture to the room. If you go vintage find something that has a great rusted look, or something enamel coated especially in a deep green! I also truly love adding the soft warm glow of an Edison Bulb to create an added element to a very cooly crafted lamp. 

the antlers

The Antlers are definitely haunting my Spotify playlist. The more I listen to them I think of how moody and chill they are. They are one of the perfect sound during my next cocktail night with friends. Check out more of them at their homepage http://antlersmusic.com. 

campsite: starved rock

As it starts to cool down, a place that always draws my attention is Starved Rock, Il. This beautiful state park is located only 90 minutes away from Chicago. Being, a temperate climate the time to visit is most definitely now. While there is a few warm days left stop and take advantage of the scenic views that over look the Illinois River, and make some time to wade in the canyon pools while soaking up the sights of water falls and bald eagles. There is picnic grounds for when you want to make it a day trip and most definitely campsites for when you want to BYOT (bring your own tent). 

enamel

Admit it, you were at one point or another a boy or girl scout. And if so you recall there was a small piece of equipment in your rucksack that most had. Before plastic was the standard issue of the scouts and the US Military there was enamelware. These heavy duty guys were your god send when you had to eat, drink, and distill your own water as you traveled. The items were made of iron so they were tough against the elements, while coated in enamel to allow even distribution of searing heat and added protection against iron leaching into your food while you consumed it. Now they have become beautiful relics that come in many different sizes, functions and colors. They are a welcome pop of color to any kitchen or accessory to any bathroom.

campsite: montauk

Let's go surfing! In Montauk, New York, camping surf style reaches the east coast. Montauk is located at the northern most tip of Long Island and has one of the most pristine views of Connecticut and the Atlantic Ocean, New York State has to offer. Most recently it has become home to several boutique hotels, Surf Lodge  and Ruschmeyer's that give you the air of staying in a updated cabin without having to "rough it." This dockside community hosts small venue restaurants, camp sites by the lake, and all the trimmings of a tight knit New England town. 

cypress

Cypress. This slow growing tree is a incredibly easy to maintain. As it comes in several different varieties look specifically for Italian, Lemon (When rubbed it gives off a soft lemon scent, and is prided on its brilliant yellow glow) Austrocedrus, or Patagonian as these are the easiest to maintain in your home and do not produce the berries that most other varieties do. Most grow at a rate of a few inches a year, with yearly trimming you can keep a small to medium sized plant for 10-15 years before needing to  be replanted outside. I recommend a standard terra cotta pot and standard planting soil as a medium. If your feeling crafty and would like to gift a plant try planting a small tree in a tin can and wrap with burlap and twine. 

swiss army blanket

Swiss Army Blankets! Used as disaster relief and as a common accessory for the Swiss foot soldiers. These blankets have found their place in the warmth of the modern cabin. There is something about having one repurposed as a tote, a throw, or even the fabric on a reupholstered metal chair that gives a little bit more cozy to a room. 

old man and the sea

The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway was a spectacular summer read. I highly recommend picking up the book on for a lazy Sunday afternoon. The simple description of Cuba alone is reason to pick up the book, and then when the man traverses out to sea on a journey for his catch his battle with age, the water, and the fish is a beautiful piece of work. Not that I am a literary critic by any means though, I did find the dialogue that the man has with himself a bit of a stretch. It is quite an easy read and will stay with you for a bit.

a beginning: story board

As I really come to what I would be looking for in my place. I have been compiling a wish list of items that I think would bring out the cabin feel that I really love. I really settle on some neutrals and slight reds to bring out the colors in my place. I currently have painted my walls Stone Harbor, a Benjamin Moore color and I am starting to settle on some neutrals and slight reds to bring out the color in the paint. As I step back the textures feel rich, but roughened around the edges.

green

Sometimes things just start with a color and build from there. As I have been recently inspired by my new home in Chicago, I have taken the opportunity to really get behind who I am, and what my style really is, and I feel that I am honing in on it. I have always been drawn to the rustic worn edges of wood that has seen more days than I, the dulled hue of orange rust that builds on steel due to its over use, and muted greens of trees while sitting at a camp site. As I build my home I hope to share some of the inspiration that I am using.