I know, I know... this doesn't look very Halloween-like today but I think it's a nice change from all of the black and orange don't you? This is how I've spent most of my day (it's already 5:30 PM here, remember I'm in Germany, 6 hours ahead). We had our family over, some friends, and enjoyed tea, cake, and a large afternoon dinner together as we listening to some Bebel Gilberto. We didn't get together to celebrate anything, but everyone happened to have their schedules free so it just fell into place all at the last minute. (Halloween is not an official holiday in Germany, so there will be no trick or treating tonight, nothing special happening in the city to observe this date.)

I thought I'd share with you photo of a very special tinned copper tea pot that arrived today, I purchased it as a surprise present for my husband and it came at the perfect time -- first thing this morning! I was able to use it for our guests to everyone's delight. It received more praise than my cooking! Hmmm. It is from Le Souk, one of my favorite online shops because I know the owner, Danielle De Lange, and love her taste! Danielle and I have traveled together and she is a very lovely woman. I appreciate the special curated selection in her shop. Danielle ships worldwide, accepts Paypal, and all includes the sweetest little notes... and products are wrapped and boxed beautifully. I've ordered several things from Le Souk, turkish towels, a ceramic light, place mats, and everything is just exquisite. I hope that you will take time to visit her shop today. You may not find ghouls or goblins there, but you will find gorgeous things for your home! :)

(images from Holly Becker for Real Simple)