Hi! As the weather turns here in Toronto, from a gorgeously long hot summer to a crisp golden fall, I’ve found myself going back to the basics.
I’m always convinced that I need to spend “a few minutes” on my phone to wind down before I can go to sleep, which usually means I’m up til midnight. So now I’m leaving my phone in the living room overnight and brushing my teeth for bedtime at 10pm. Turns out I can fall asleep just fine at 10:30pm!
I’m going grocery shopping more consistently, and cooking more often. I’ve bought a few cookbooks to inspire me and don’t feel bad about using that excitement as motivation.
Two cookbooks I’ve been enjoying (yes, heavy on the “comfort”):
I’ve also found myself wanting to nest in my place a bit more. I rearranged my plants so all the vines are hanging around the window rather than on my bookshelf. I got a new garlic press, cleaned out my kitchen shelves, and bought some cut dahlias in a beautiful buttercream yellow-and-pink for my dining room table.
I’m shopping for a new rug, buying new art, and generally investing more in my home again.
I love looking at Facebook marketplace, and wanted to share some home things I’ve bookmarked over the past few weeks. If you’re in Toronto, maybe you’ll find something that catches your eye!
Let me know if you do end up snagging one of these.
Here’s my list of finds and what I love about them, along with a link to buy.
Gorgeous wool handmade blanket, 5x7ft ($100). Love the natural fibres. Cute pompoms give it more visual interest, while the neutral colours keep it from being too whimsical.
3-seater caramel velvet couch ($280). This is a bonkers price for this gorgeous couch. It’s a little too big for my space (110 inches), otherwise this would be living with me. I love everything about it from the colour to the velvet to the shape, to how wide the arms are so you can set a mug of coffee down on them. Please someone buy this and send me photos!!
Burnt orange kilim rug, 38x24 inches ($70). Love the rusty orange and blue. So warm and rich. Could be cute under a bookshelf or in front of an armchair.
Giant vintage crewel needlework embroidery of provincial flowers, 38x38 inches ($325). Okay this is a hefty price tag but I mean look at this thing!! What a unique piece of art, and it pays homage to local Canadian flowers? Seller is in St. Catharine’s, but maybe they can ship?
Australian wool large blanket, 90x105 inches ($111). 100% wool! Super thick and cozy, and it reverses onto a cream side with orange detailing. You’ve got options with this one.
Oak + Fort wool throw blanket, 56x41 inches ($30). What a great price for a 100% wool blanket! It’s not my favourite colour but maybe it’s yours? Cons: pickup is in Markham.
Luna Del Pinal wool blanket, 4.5x7ft ($80). 90% wool, 10% cotton. We love natural fibres. Looks huge and warm and cozy, could be a great bedspread too. Good alternative to blanket #1.
Printed jute bed throw + pillow covers, king size ($80). Very country/nature vibe. Jute is a natural material, and I like that it can add some interest to a neutral bedroom without being overwhelming. Matching pillowcases are a bonus!
Anthropologie inspired rug, 19.5x49 inches ($40). Love the colours here! Could warm up a neutral bathroom or play up an already vibrant one. It is quite long so double-check how much floor space you have!
Shallow ceramic acai bowl ($15). Size is unknown so you’d have to message the seller. I like how the colour is fresh without being too attention grabbing. Could use as a fruit bowl or a serving dish? I’m imagining it on a wooden table or island.
Please please let me know if you buy any of these! Or even if you put in offers! Share in the comments or email me directly, I’d love to know if any of these caught your eye.
Otherwise, have a great rest of the week!
✨
Warmly yours,
Nina