French Countryside in the Fall

I've got a special feeling for the fall season because that is the time of year when I was born. But I think too, that many others love Fall because of the change in the weather after a long, hot summer, the way the air changes its smell, the cool mornings, and of course, the rich and luscious color scheme.

For this swap, you are going to travel to the French countryside and create a parcel of lovely items to transport your partner there, too.

Think of gorgeously dangling bunches of grapes frosted with dew in the early morning as you survey the rows stretching away in the foggy mist: Think of plump heads of cabbages piled in a chip basket with a complement of bright carrots heading for a hearty stew: Perhaps your trip takes you to a tiny winery where you are invited in for a sip of the newly bottled vintage. Little old ladies making bobbin lace or tatting with an ancient shuttle . . . I don't know - I've never been, but I'm thinking I can find some little luxuries that will evoke a feeling of wonder and vintage finds.

I think my partner will even find a tiny nip of a good red wine in their package and maybe a little aged cheese along with a homemade edible treat from me- well wrapped of course!

Think of the fall color schemes that are popular and add on some of your own thoughts. A beautiful Bordeaux-colored snippet of velvet ribbon? Perfect! Some moss-green velvet leaves? Perfect again!

Use your own ideas of what you think a little visit to the French countryside would be like and make up a parcel of five or six little gifties wrapped up so you partner can savor each one as it is unwrapped and have a peaceful getaway in the middle of their busy life. You can make, buy, thrift, or share from your stash, but stay true to the style of the group as you assemble and ship off this swap of shabby little treasures.