Show and Tell: Handpainted Fall Platter

Each week, Kelli hosts Show and Tell Friday at her "place"! Because fall is almost upon us (by the looks of the empty Target back-to-school supply section, it's in full swing!), I thought I'd share one of my favorite fall things. Along with that, I get to share about a fun day with one of my favorite people!

One day last summer during one of our trips home, my best friend, Lauren, and I decided to spend a morning together at a Paint Your Own Pottery place. We had done this once before on a spring break trip to California in college. Let's just say our creations were quite "youthful" then! Still, we had a blast, and vowed to do it again one day.

So, amidst lots of laughter and fun conversation, I painted this platter. I painted this design and these colors because I love fall. I love the brilliant colors of fall leaves, and porch fronts decorated with pumpkins. I love the smell in the air, and the promise that Christmas, my favorite season, is on it's way! I love hayrides, wearing maternity jeans with boots, and hot apple cider. Preferably, all of those at once! :) So, my platter reminds me of those things, and I use it almost everyday in the fall.

But, more importantly, each time I pull it out of the cupboard, I think of my friend, Lauren. I think about our friendship, all that we've shared since we became instant friends in high school. I'm reminded of the things that we laugh about, and cry about, and how she's become a great "aunt" to my boys! And, that's what really makes this platter so special to me!