Miles and Miles

Please don't get me this for Christmas. I'm being serious. I know I am a big Miles Davis fan, but I really don't think I can make it through SEVENTY CDs!! (Although, it's fun to look at the mini-LP replica jackets).

Miles Davis: The Complete Columbia Album Collection available November 24, 2009.

Westside Story

To some, Atlanta has the reputation for being made up of a series of soulless strip malls frequented by overweight racists. While I am sure you can find an unfortunate bit of such in the South, The actual city of Atlanta has come a long way in terms of art, design and culture. For every clear cut, metro-area suburban cul-de-sac, Atlanta has an artist, gallery owner or restaurateur determined to leave their unique stamp--despite that fact that it can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. This is why I was especially proud to find Atlanta's burgeoning Westside Arts District featured in today's Sunday Times. More photos here.

Photos by Erik S. Lesser for The New York Times

Flowers and Candlight

A friend asked me about the little wood "vase" I used to hold roses earlier last week. Funny they should ask, because it's actually candle packaging that I thought was too pretty to toss. There's a watertight vase tucked inside, but I thought the grainy wood gave my yellow roses a more autumnal feel than the usual glass or silver.

The candle is by Voluspa's James Boyce Collection. I bought mine at Gramercy Fine Linens & Furnishings. In case you are not in Atlanta, they are also available here.

While it is generally considered a faux pas to burn fragrant candles while cooking or eating, this line was designed specifically for that purpose by chef James Boyce. (Sounds like a good Thanksgiving host gift to me!)

And if it makes you feel any better, the boxes are made from sustainable Palownia wood without the use of stain or lacquer. My scent of choice is "Herb Garden", which is very fresh and subtle.

Happy November!