September. Summer has gone. Today we have a token sunny day, but the air has changed already. I noticed it earlier in the week, the sun wasn't quite able to make the air stay warm. It wasn't cold, but there was a definite chilly feeling, with a bonfirey scent and a crispness that only arrives at this time of year.
I love it.
On Sunday the Husband took The Girl to the beach. It's highly likely it will be the last time this year the little rascal will be able to paddle in the sea like this!
I've been ready to clear up the remnants of summer for a while. Just like at Christmas, when after the day itself, I look around at the decorations and pine needles and the floor, and can't wait to put it all away for another year. After weeks of the sunflowers looking droopy and bedraggled, I could stand it no more. 
On Tuedsay I picked the few remaining flowers, then chopped down the straggly mess. 
Much tidier. 
The terracotta pumpkin has been on the veranda of Gingerbread House for a couple of weeks now, hinting that I was more than ready for Autumn to start. 
Next week school starts again, and once more the house will be quiet and tidy. My only regret about summer being over is that The Girl will be back in school. I've loved having her home so much.
She loves school though, and is looking forward to going back. It makes me happy that she's happy to get back to school
And I'll have some time to make plans for a little Halloween party I've promised she can have. I've already made a start by buying face paints and some cake decorations.
This is the month that work on the hallway/stairs and landing will start. It's taken a long time to find the right shade of grey for the walls. The hallway flooring will be replaced sometime over the next couple of weeks, so I'll share photos when things happen.
Today I have bought myself a few little treats. Did you know that [House of Fraser] are now stocking some Shabby Chic products? No, neither did I until last week. Oh the excitement!
I have placed an order, and after lots of oohing and ahhing, have these goodies on the way. Two pillowcases, two side plates and a mug. I'd love to buy a whole lot more, but unfortunately I am not a rich woman.
Nice to have pretty goodies on the way.
*top photo* turn a favourite perfume bottle into a vase once it's empty. Just remove the spray section (very carefully - do it slowly so you don't chip and splinter the glass. Dangerous and you'll ruin the bottle. You need pliers and scissors and a bit of patience, but it can be done), then wash and use for tiny blooms.