Project DOTT

For my birthday this year, my darling, creative friend Tasha gave me a little ticket tucked inside of a pink gingham bag that she embroidered the message "for you" on.  The ticket read "This ticket entitles you to one Day on the Town, complete with antique shopping, a trip to MaryJane's, a picnic, and anything else you wish!

Snuggled next to the ticket was a gift certificate to the MaryJane'sFarm shop.  The stage was set for an epic, sublime, project DOTT.

Dresses were sewn for the occasion, (everyone else thought mine was simply this year's 4-H project, but I knew better;) matching millinery concocted, hair coiffed, and hamper stowed.  (Stowing a picnic hamper is the most romantically whimsical activity.  You should try it.)

To do the thing properly, one really must have a private photographer.  A chauffeur  is an added nicety.  So Tasha's brother marvelously agreed to act in both capacities, and did a splendid job of it.  We are indebted to you, Alex.  Or James.  You acted the part to perfection. 

Going to the fabric store is always a treat.  Today, it was a cinematographic experience.  

Swishy frocks, best friends...

...and the most luscious grey plaid flannel.   

 Next up, Wiggett's Antiques - a very wonderful place.  Coincidentally, it's where I first met Petrov...

The most beautiful book room also resides there, filling me with alternating euphoria and despair as I peek at price tags.

Enter MaryJanesFarm shop!  This little place is so adorable, and the decor, consisting of MaryJane's own collection of antique finds is absolutely fabulous.

Then, as we walked back to the car lot...

 

This gentleman with a most charming accent paused to exclaim; "Ladies!  You are so beautiful - may I please take your picture?"
We assented, and while he set up his phone camera he continued; "I ask you.  Where will you find such beauty?"  Turning to our escort, he intoned, "Young man, don't fool yourself.  You will never hold a candle to them."

Back in the car, we died.
It was the highlight of the day, and I am forever thankful to that charming gentleman for his kindness and gallantry.

Then, to crown all, a picnic on the historic downtown green!  My hamper (also acquired at Wiggett's), was the perfect accessory.

A picnic!  Yay!

The menu consisted of homemade scones (yours truly), delightful sandwiches, vanilla creame soda, and a half-round of cake which our escort selected as befitting his voracious appetite.

The cake was titled "Sock It To Me Cinnamon Pudding Cake".
Why?  I'll tell you.

I don't know.

Brother & sister

Yes, that is a raccoon in the middle.  It seems I am not the only one to find fabulous furs in the basement of Wiggett's - and Jeff here was fully intact with a mounted head.  How could one pass up such a deal?
Alex asked himself that same question as we picnicked, and on discovering the answer, we made a detour back to the basement to claim the coveted prize.  He (Jeff) rode on the dashboard all the way home, his paws clinging to the windshield and his beautifully mounted head grinning at fellow motorists.

The befitting end to a Day on the Town, Tristan and the Classy Lassies style.

Project DOTT will forever be a monument to carefree, inspired, stylish insanity.