a beautiful life

this is the face she makes when I tell her to come inside

2012-01-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

in which I attempt to take dog portraits

2012-01-28T16:29:00.002-05:00

Recently I was exposed to the 1000 pugs project, and let me just say that if she were coming ANYWHERE near me, I'd sign up my puppies in a heartbeat. As it is, today I attempted to take a few pictures of my own. OH MY WORD. I think I need to learn how to diplomatically deploy treats. Because right now? This is the best I can do. And she's adorable, but that's one out of 40 or so. Here's hoping I'm better at baby photography...

beware the curly tongue, my friend

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Yeah, those are my crazy pugs. They're loving this warmer weather.

bumpwatch 2012: week 33

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Can't quite believe I only have seven weeks left. This weekend's project is some serious rearranging to make room for the crib. Just want the little person to arrive!

wednesday wonderfulness

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Well, I've seen a *few* cool things this week.

organizing the spice cabinet! NEED THIS.
Dope zebra. You will laugh. I promise.
awesome wrapping paper.
I know I've said this a bunch, but I really think I've found my diaper bag. Yellow, right?
have I mentioned the awesomeness that is tastespotting? I can't remember. It's awesome.
giant heart balloons. I love this so much.
also: baby essentials. I'm pretty sure I don't want about half of these. At least.
SUPER interesting read on a gender-neutral classroom
also: what it's like to live at an artist's colony

Can't seem to focus this week...too much up in the air, yet to be done...

today I'm obsessing over

2012-01-24T20:41:00.001-05:00

::potential nursery ideas::

::paint colors::

::crock pot recipies::

Is there big news on the horizon? Maybe.

::twitpics::

2012-01-20T11:33:00.002-05:00

Bernie is just ridiculously cute, that's all.

Going to be le bebe's quilt.

Meyer Lemon marmalade. Is good I think.

I made tiramisu for the first time...it turned out DELICIOUS.

pug love: bernadette

2012-01-19T08:00:00.001-05:00

This is so her typical look.

wednesday wonderfulness, at long last edition

2012-01-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

You know, because I've actually had a bit of time in front of the computer lately.

Um, yummy. Also: it's not too late for pumpkin puddings. I'm just saying. WINTER HAS ONLY JUST BEGUN.
in case you were wondering if that link was so last year: is it old?
one of everything on this page, please. Especially the pig-shaped paperclips.
This looks yummy, but not quite right. Can't imagine pouring gravy on grits dressing. I'm just saying.
Need to see if this homemade body scrub helps my winter eczema...
Willie Nelson + Coldplay. Is good, I promise.
this skirt is so pretttttty!
How addictive is this....graphy thing. (Answer: VERY.)
These vintage wedding dresses make me SO VERY HAPPY.
I kind of adore this editorial.
101 things to do in NYC in the winter.
read this: inspiration vs. imitation.
10 ways to sparkle more this year.
Also, a little late but: what he learned from his resolution to work out EVERY DAY in 2011.
also late but still helpful: delicious-looking brownie mix gift idea.
And if you're not yet disillusioned about Steve Jobs: in his own words.

Well...that should keep you going for a bit, right?

bumpwatch 2012: week 32

2012-01-17T20:29:00.003-05:00

OH DEAR SWEET BABY JESUS I'M HUGE. I don't know if it's just the angle at which my husband took this photo, but now I'm terribly concerned. Even though at this point I've only gained about 20 pounds.

I know, I know. I'm having a baby in eight weeks. (side note: eight weeks??!!!???? ::brain esplosion::) BUT STILL.

In other news: aren't the boots fab? Christmas gift. Should have made le husband take a closeup...

goals for 2012

2012-01-14T18:26:00.004-05:00

I know. I'm a bit behind. You know what? I'm ok with that. Other things I'm ok with that I didn't use to be: wearing comfy pants, minimal makeup, the color purple. So, see? Progress. Ok, goals.

Read 50 books.
Run a 5k with a sub-25 minute time. (post-baby!)
Shoot 8 weddings.
Attend wedding in Costa Rica. (Please note I said attend. Woo!)
Do two band shoots.
Re-cover all throw pillows in my house.
Get back into pre-baby jeans.
BOOK at least two boudoir shoots. (As opposed to doing for free.)
Get back on twitter.
Take off one day per week.
Make homemade jam.
Send Christmas cards.

You know what? That's it. Right now there are so many variables in my life I can't even plan goals accordingly, but I'm ok with that. I'm learning to get better with uncertainty, I think.

For reference, here are previous goal lists:

Ciao for now. Dream big this year, people.

this is a fairly typical scene

2012-01-13T09:24:00.002-05:00

Big brother on the couch, chewing his bone, little sister sitting below, plotting on how to steal it.

inspiring me this morning

2012-01-12T10:56:00.001-05:00

This episode of the moth podcast with Aimee Mullins. Listen. Seriously. Amazing.

because it's Friday

2012-01-06T06:00:00.001-05:00

This is the song that I have on repeat right now; it makes me happy like none other. I can't help singing along as loud as I can. And on a Friday morning? I need that.

::pug love::

2012-01-05T11:56:00.001-05:00

Oh, right. Did I forget to mention the part where we got a pug puppy? Because, you know, we don't have enough to do. Actually, her name is Bernadette and we love her to pieces. Snorty has come around, and is teaching what it means to be a good pug.

wrap up for 2011

2012-01-01T16:22:00.003-05:00

Wow. Since I've started blogging my yearly goals I don't think I've had this low of a success rate. I didn't take off one day a week; instead I added another job. Didn't walk a three-day (signed up, but didn't have time to do the fundraising), didn't lead help-portrait (started planning, but didn't have time and had to step aside), didn't cook dinner once a week. Wow, you guys. I guess priority number one for 2012 is just to manage my time better. I guess technically I developed a schedule, in that I now wake up at 4:00 5 mornings a week. On the flip side, I did a bunch of stuff this year that I'm really proud of that wasn't on the list.

ran a 5k. Time sucked, but I ran it. :D
shot 12 weddings, including second shooting a couple with some amazing photographers.
did a bunch of family sessions. Decided that's NOT where I want to build my business.
helped to plan the "big" family reunion. (150 people!)
learned to say no.
was in the best shape of my life before I discovered I was pregnant in July. (July 6, to be precise.)
started working at a newspaper doing design and layout.
got another pug.

My goals post should be here soon; I'm still pondering. And yes, I do want to get back to blogging here now that my schedule has slowed down a little. (For a bit!)

brain dump

2011-11-20T12:11:00.002-05:00

I just realized last night that I've accumulated quite a pile of links that make me say "hmm. interesting." So instead of waiting for Wednesday (when I most definitely will not have time to blog) I'm throwing them at you now. Have fun sorting through it all!

these jeans: awesome or scary?
a bunch of recipes I want to try: caramel apple bars, perfect white cake, oreo bark, salted caramel apple pound cake, chocolate wasted cake, and homemade butterfingers.
interesting look at where all the good guys are.
packing interesting lunches! win!
a blog (now closed) about making infused liquors. LOVE THIS.
good to know: alkaline forming foods
10 (really simple!) ways to make a garland
best. halloween costumes. ever.
I think I need these posters.
also these envelope patterns
simple, gorgeous wall art
maybe this instead of pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving?
floral party hats? yes please!
kind of loving this site.
also I love this birthday party
and a bunch of Steve Jobs quotes

Enjoy!

confession of an increasingly pregnant lady

2011-11-15T20:53:00.002-05:00

Today is exactly 4 months until my due date. And I have a confession to make: the cute outfit on the left? Yes, that's what I wear all day at work. But on the right? It takes me approximately 4.3 seconds to change when I get home every night. Fun fact: the other night le hubs and I celebrated our anniversary, and I was changing and said, "I'm just trying to find something comfortable." Hubs started laughing. "For the first time in your life, I believe you."

Cute outfit: dress, target. Sweater, jcrew, shoes, DSW. comfy outfit: tank, gap, lounge pants, target.

on a happier note

2011-11-10T11:02:00.001-05:00

I don't listen to much "Christian music" just because I feel like a lot of it sounds exactly the same. But I am currently completely obsessed with this song: the chorus is amazing.

things no one prepared me for about being pregnant

2011-11-09T21:27:00.003-05:00

I have lots of friends who have kids, I have an older sister who has kids, I have plenty of people I can ask questions. But there are some things I never *thought* to ask, and things I knew with my head that, in practice, still surprise me. (Look away if you're disturbing by reading about slightly disturbing things.)

The boobs. They are huge. This is so bizarre.
Pregnant women don't wear maternity pants because they are too big for normal clothes: it's because regular pants HURT LIKE THE DICKENS.
Along the same lines: whoever said Braxton Hicks are painless LIED. It's like all the menstrual cramps you haven't had for five months are catching up. And I know real contractions are much MUCH worse. Why do I think I can do a natural birth? I'm crazy.
The tiredness of the first trimester, while ridiculous, does go away. But I still get tired much faster than I used to. Makes me glad my wedding season was short this year...
Heartburn is WEIRD. I'd never had it before in my entire life, so I wasn't even sure what I was feeling.
On a happier note: little baby kicks are pretty awesome. I think they feel like bubbles bursting in my tummy.

That's it. Be warned, girls.

what I'm obsessing over right now

2011-11-04T14:54:00.001-04:00

project nursery

homemade butterfingers

making my own limoncello

That is all.

preggo outfit again!

2011-11-03T10:45:00.003-04:00

I promise you: I actually am wearing cute outfits pretty much every day, but by the time I get home a night it's either too dark to take a picture, or I'm so tired there's no way I'm going to try to look presentable. So here you go: my tummy at 21.5 weeks.
The dress is vintage, and it's a heavy wool knit, so it's stretchy. Love! And then just normal tights, shoes, and the skinny belt is on loan by my sister for the duration. I love how it actually makes my outfit look finished instead of random pieces thrown together. Also, please note that from the front I still just look like a fat girl. HOW IS THIS EVEN POSSIBLE.

what I wore, the baby bump chronicles

2011-10-21T08:00:00.001-04:00

You can't tell from this outfit, but I really have a visible bump at this point. in fact, the sprout is having a growth spurt and so my abdominal muscles have be stretching and hurting like the dickens! I have totally become one of those women who rubs her tummy--it makes it feel better, k?

So I've referenced life getting crazy a few times: I've started another job. For 20 hours a week I'm doing layout and design for the local newspaper. (Yes, this is in addition to 30 hours a week at Starbucks and doing photography. But no worries! Wedding season is over!) This has been my first week, and so far? LOVING it. I'm kind of a massive fan of mucking about in Quark. Anyway, all that to explain why just as my wardrobe options are shrinking I need more cute outfits than ever before. Where before I could live with about two pairs of work pants, now I'm needing business casual stuff every day. (Well, 4 days a week.) Sisters to the rescue! They have ransacked their wardrobes for all things loose, flowy, and stretchy.

I had my first wardrobe crisis today, though. Had on a completely adorable outfit involving my stretchiest skinny jeans that I'd extended using the rubber band trick, a long tunic top, and a blazer, and after 15 minutes I was in so much pain it felt like I was making up for all the period cramps I've missed the past five months. So I switched to this look: there's nothing pulling across my tummy.

navy dress: target

yellow sweater: marshall's

boots: jcrew

Nothing I'm wearing is actually maternity. I'm taking all the advantage of that I can!

Sorry the image is so dark! It was taken at the end of a very long day.

to do

2011-10-20T19:48:00.003-04:00

Going to be in New York City with le husband for two and a half days next weekend! It's an early celebration of our anniversary/visit to PhotoPlus. (I go every year, and this year I'm dragging him along.) The last time we went to the city together it was March, so it was kind of chilly, but late October is one of my favorite times to visit: cool enough to be comfy, but still warm enough to walk a LOT. Anyway, I'm excited about sharing some of my new favorite places that I've gathered since our last visit together. So far my list includes:

ramen and pork buns at ippudo
highline
museum of sex (I think he'll like it! I found it fascinating.)
kyotofu

There's also a new indian place to check out, and I want to find a fantastic little bakery not too far from our hotel (we're staying in SoHo). Mainly I plan to enjoy this little trip of just us together before I get too big and uncomfortable to travel easily. Anything that you think we should do/see/eat together?

wednesday wonderfulness, massive edition

2011-10-19T08:00:00.002-04:00

This may be the last of these for a while; life took a giant turn for the crazy this week. But in a good way, I promise! Anyway, lots of long reads this week, because that's what I've been doing: reading long articles in the snippets of time between things.

You know, I'm not normally much of a wreath person, but this one is lovely I think.
Live now.
Really long (and interesting) read on graphic design.
How sexist are you?
"I want the women who are differently beautiful to say, “I am gorgeous.” I want them to believe it."
I wish I made journals like this.
Kinda loving all these Amy Poehler characters.
Hippo. Bookends. That is all.
I found this non-alcoholic beer comparison to be very relevant.
Any homeschoolers agree with this take on things?
Can I please have this office?
Aahhhhhh! Teeny tiny things!
Recently ran across this photographer. Lovelove.
This bouquet IS GORGEOUS.
Scans of an old Disney handbook
also: photos of real life nomads
more interesting than it sounds: teenage brain development

Ok, well, that's it for now.

wallpaper

2011-10-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

movies currently in our local theater that I REALLY want to see

2011-10-15T20:45:00.001-04:00

Unfortunately it won't happen any time soon. But a girl can dream!

What's on your watch list?

currently loving

2011-10-14T16:19:00.003-04:00

I know I haven't been around much lately: trust me when I say that life has been INSANE. I thought it was before...I had no idea. So don't expect it to be any more interesting around here for a while. WE'RE JUST GETTING STARTED. In the mean time? Pretty things.

How fantastic is the styling in this video? I love the cat eye she's rocking.

I'm pretty sure it's impossible for me to get tired of this one.

And I've shared this song before, but here's the official video. I really love the message of the song...

And just in case you needed to know: how to shuffle.

in memory

2011-10-06T19:18:00.002-04:00

I don't often reference current events on here, but I'm really quite sad that Steve Jobs died yesterday. He was so young (56!) and impacted so many, causing the world to rethink how we use computers and really? How we live. So here are two things: one, him doing the voiceover from the "crazy ones" ad (one of my life mantras, I think). And two, his commencement address to Stanford in 2006: how to live before you die. He would know.

"Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything--all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure--these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked; there is no reason not to follow your heart."

Think different, people.

shoe envy

2011-10-03T08:00:00.001-04:00

Move over, Louboutin. is in the house.

in which I try to make things photogenic

2011-09-30T08:00:00.001-04:00

So you may or may not realize that I live within about half an hour of the Atlantic Ocean. I've grown up around the beach, and nothing relaxes me more than lying in the sand (coated in sunscreen!), reading, listening to the waves. Best. Thing. Ever.

HOWEVER.

When I think of the beach, I think of something like this. (Yes, that's my usual beach.) Unfortunately, the beach that most people (read: tourists) near us go to is called Ocean City, and it looks more like this. Lonely Planet calls it "the american seaside holiday at its tacky best." In the summer I literally will not go to Ocean City unless I'm being paid to shoot your wedding or engagement photos. It's just...heinous.

So when the manager of the Starbucks in Ocean City asked if I could hang some of my photography on the walls of that store, it was an interesting challenge. The art didn't HAVE to be specifically from that city, but it couldn't include a) people or b) religious iconography of any sort. I can live without the religious thing (although churches can be cool looking!) but a photo with no person? That's like not breathing to me. I see beautiful locations and want to put a bride there. That's just how I think. So all these? Out of the question.

Things also couldn't be too abstract--last time I tried to get some really experimental work approved, the district manger asked "Don't you just have some pictures of flowers or something?" No, no actually I don't. Because I haven't done those since I was, oh, FIFTEEN. And finally, the images really work better (because of framing) if they're horizontal.

With all that background, you now know why I forced myself on Friday to drive over to Ocean City and spend an hour wandering the boardwalk area, trying to see things in a new--and attractive--way. Epic fail. Some people see everything in a beautiful, artistic way. I AM NOT ONE OF THEM.

So below you'll find my attempts to see beauty in the ordinary. No, this is not how the images will end up being used. My favorite is definitely the snail. :D

some color for your day

2011-09-29T08:00:00.001-04:00

I found the Kate Spade campaign I was telling you about. Don't you love the image with the pigeons?

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-09-28T14:11:00.002-04:00

Seriously, how fantastic is Charlotte Rampling?
Loving the idea of inspiration collages.
helpful: how to send a direct message with Google Plus
Ok, I'm really loving this board on Pinterest
also: things to do this fall. Lovelove!
what are your time sucks?
I think I need this game.

And this is just ridiculously adorable:

Also: Karen Elson looks amazing. And sings.

starting on the Christmas shopping

2011-09-27T08:00:00.002-04:00

I don't know about you, but I start on my Christmas shopping EARLY. When you're from a family as big as mine, there's no way around it. I'd rather not spend a fortune, so I like to pick up lovely things on sale throughout the year, and Anthropologie is one of my favorite places. Here are a few lovely things that are currently very reduced in price.
Meyer Lemon Bracelet, $49.95

Crochet Palliettes Bib, $29.95

Garden Plait Mug, $3.95 (Wouldn't these make fantastic stocking stuffers? May have to get one for each of the girls in my family...)

Grown in The Garden, $19.95

happy pretty lovely!

2011-09-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

Love this behind the scenes of the newest Kate Spade campaign....I'm trying to find the resulting images for you, but I'm having weird internet problems lately.

wednesday wonderfulness, not much else happening around here

2011-09-21T12:12:00.003-04:00

Ok, I'm loving this blog. Addictive, I say!
loving the idea of decorating random electronics.
definitely enjoying seeing Sophia Loren's style evolution.
have you heard about the sketchbook project? did you know you can participate?
also these are fun.
and I'm going to bake a pan of these this afternoon. I think.
this song is gorgeous. perfect for a fall afternoon.
I love these rules of dinner...do you have any for your family?

That's all for now, folks. Time to go feed the alien in mah tummy!

like toys for your fingers

2011-09-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

If anyone decides to buy me pretty much any of the rings from this shop, I won't be offended. I'm just saying.

wednesday wonderfulness, it's been a while

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

Ok, there's a LOT here. I'll go quickly.

This talk about marketing your photography business is pretty interesting.
If you loved the latest JCrew catalog, you're adore the behind-the-scenes.
what? You can make cake mix taste amazing? I'm skeptical...
perfect chocolate chip cookies, eh? Someone try these!
ohhlala! Gorgeous crepe paper flowers.
Ok, I really want this book.
what I've been reading lately: a beginner's guide to cloth diapers.
made this for dinner last night, and it was amazing! Definitely a keeper. (Although I might add some onions next time.)
also, if you like pumpkin spice, apparently this is a reasonable approximation.
tips for photographers re: google +. Interesting...
My Little Ponies redefined! Loves.
ok, I LOVE this DIY.
also, this article was sad...and good.
also, I think I need this hat.
neon silverware! I need to try this.
also, this lingerie? is perfect. I'm just saying.

Ok, I've got watermelon rind pickles to make. :D

today I love

2011-09-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

looks I'm looking forward to sporting this fall (baby bump or no!):

braids. Especially messy ones.

Source: prettystuff.tumblr.com via annelise on Pinterest

cozy, shape-skimming sweaters.

Source: ilovewildfox.com via Kassandra on Pinterest

pleated skirts.

Source: mariahinafrica.blogspot.com via Nicole on Pinterest

sparkles.

Source: inthecitywithcrystalin.tumblr.com via Meggan on Pinterest

What are you excited for this season?

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-08-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

No really! Some good stuff here, I promise!

how much do you love these portraits of francis cobain? I have to figure out that light...
Ok, so as soon as the bean sprout comes along, I'm totally trying this diet/lifestyle. It makes sense. (Related: super-interesting article about Tim Ferriss.)
I've always been a huge fan of Wawa. If you're not from around here, reading this article will let you know what that sentence means.
I will take one of everything, please.
Loving this list of DIYs. Makes me want to make things...
along those lines--how to put bows on shoes. That aren't cheesy.
via a facebook friend: cake batter truffles? yes please!
Have you heard about the Coveteur? I just did, and oh my goodness. Loving Sylvia Mantella, Annabel Tollman, Ari Goldberg, Harley Viera Newtown.
I love Romola Garai! I'm pretty sure I want to be her friend.

Ok. That's enough time wasted for now.

sometimes I buy shoes

2011-08-30T08:00:00.001-04:00

Spent the weekend with the sisters pretending hurricane Irene wasn't happening. One of the highlights was our shoe shopping trip. I've seen these Louis Vuitton shoes in a bunch of editorials and loved them, so when I saw a straight up knock off, I couldn't resist. I bought them. I wasn't too excited about fall before, but now? Now I want things to cool down so that I can wear them...

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-08-17T15:25:00.002-04:00

Ok, really quickly:

Loving this peek inside an amazing fashion collection.
Delicious addition to any cheese plate: grilled figs.
Um, how delicious and adorable would cupcakes in a jar be for a party favor?
Baby stuff alert! A guide to nesting in a VERY organized manner. Love this!
More baby stuff: what to register for. Do you agree? Disagree? What would you add or ignore?
I have never seen this movie and suddenly I REALLY want to.
I also need to try this salad. Like, tonight.
Ahhh! Shoe love! Check out these amazing closets. (Yes, I've shared a couple before.)
Also: the Ace Hotel field guide to NYC? Yes please!
Have you seen the wedding photos of Kate Moss? AMAZING.

Ok, stopping now.

warning: will make you want to travel

2011-08-15T08:00:00.001-04:00

Three very brief films that are sure to make you want to travel, learn something, and eat. Get your monday off to an inspired start!

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

LEARN from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

EAT from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

summer is almost gone

2011-08-14T19:40:00.004-04:00

It's a rainy sunday here, and I should be editing like a madwoman. But instead I find myself playing wistful music while I watch season one (!) episodes of Top Chef on my iPad and adding new restaurants to the list of places to visit next time I'm in NYC.

Here's what today's weather feels like to me:

my legitimate excuse for lack of posting

2011-08-12T08:00:00.002-04:00

Because I'm sleeping all. the. time. So far I've avoided morning sickness (mostly), and have only been hit with the extreme tiredness. I have to sleep eight hours a night now! Who has time for that?
Anyway, if the blog suddenly becomes kinda baby-centric, don't say I didn't warn you.

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-08-10T08:00:00.002-04:00

Guys, guess what? I GOT TO SLEEP IN TODAY. Like, past 4 am. This is such happy news, you've no idea. Anyway, on to the pretties.

How to make sparkly pretty butterflies for cakes and stuff. Lovely!
5 ways to use glitter...including glittery cookies!
this week in the life project looks amazing. But no, I'm not doing it.
Can someone please make me a couple of these?
Love the dark seventies feel of this editorial.
And the innocent/slightly lolita feel of this one.
Ok, I like Guess ads much better than their actual clothes.
I love the joy in this portfolio.

Ok....that's it for now. Enjoy!

currently loving

2011-08-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

...this playlist

...these books (remind me of James Herriot!)

...this television series (on netflix instant queue)

...this beverage

...these jeans

What are you loving right now?

and while we're on the subject of animals

2011-08-05T17:06:00.003-04:00

Is it possible to have too much animal print in your wardrobe? Because I DON'T THINK SO.

And I want them all.
All images property of SteveMadden.com.

weekend sale!

2011-08-05T16:37:00.002-04:00

Do you love the amazing animal prints of Sharon Montrose? I definitely do, and this weekend she's running a sale in honor of her first anniversary. Buy three small prints, get the fourth free. Get over there!

All images belong to Sharon Montrose.

part of where I've been

2011-08-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

I've been shooting. A lot. And not having time to edit much of it. But these are part of a seniors shoot I did this week that I'm particularly proud of.

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-08-03T08:00:00.002-04:00

Happy August, yo! Things that have happened so far: I've had a lot of photo shoots. We had a bad storm and our modem got blown out. Snorty got a life jacket (that he loves) and sunglasses (that he hates). There are no pictures yet. You know, the usual. Anyway.

I think I need to make some glitter magnets.
I can't stop reading "dear blank please blank."
this photo project is fantastic.
All time best music videos: do you agree or disagree with the list?
I love this editorial with Amber Valetta. She's so lovely!
I love this: how to talk to little girls. So, so good.

Ok, I just have to stop. There's an album that MUST BE DESIGNED. Ciao.

shoes to change the world

2011-07-28T17:46:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago, a friend blogged about her purchase of TOMS shoes, posting lovely photos and a challenge to do what we can to use our spending dollars to support the less fortunate. I'd heard about TOMS before, of course, and I love their mission. But the problem is...I'd never wear the shoes. So imagine my delight when I discovered Sseko sandals today. They have a different mission: to empower and educate women in Uganda. But in addition? The sandals are really, really adorable. And something I would totally wear. I think I need to pick up a pair...or two.

(All images property of sseko.)

wednesday wonderfulness, I feel guilty for even posting this

2011-07-27T15:22:00.002-04:00

Just because I'm ridiculously behind right now so I don't want to admit to the fact that I'm doing anything other than working my butt off. Anyway.

Life lessons with lucidity. Love!
um, cupcakes please?
OH MY GOODNESS SO HUNGRY.
also I think I need to try making this. Perhaps tonight.
am loving: prada's resort collection, anthroplogie's look book, and the feathers in this photo shoot.
Also: amazingness. a whole bunch of scans from a 1957 Harper's Bazaar. (Richard Avedon! Carmen Dell'Orefice!)
Wow. I want to try colored contacts!

And that's all I have time for.

ways to waste time on a Monday

2011-07-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

I don't even know how I got started poking around on Issuu this time, but it will suck you in and not let you go. So consider yourself warned. But if you still want something to stare at seriously while pretending to work, here you go.

where is the cool? This one is aimed toward men, but I love the layout and much of the content. And that yacht on page 86? OH GOODNESS.
Delish Magazine. More of a women's interest/lifestyle publication, with lots of pretty pictures and fun recipes. I love the aesthetic.
Gatherings Magazine reminds me of Mary Engelbriet's magazine, if you've ever read that. Plenty of color, more delicious-sounding recipes.
papercut mag. Some of the fashion spreads on this are amazing. I particularly love the one called "Color Theory."
Giving Life. This one is just for the "huh?" factor; as best I can tell it's a pakistani magazine for expecting parents? Sort of? I'm not sure, but it's intriguing to read something aimed at those who's frame of reference is completely different from mine.

friday wrap up

2011-07-22T17:54:00.002-04:00

I know I've been non-existent this week, and I'm sad about this. There just hasn't been time to spend at the computer. Consequently, I'm falling behind on my real work, which means that when I DO have time to spare, it's not used on surfing/blogging/fun times.

Ok, so here are some snippets that I've picked up in my spare time.

bits of advice from established writers.
free mixtapes!
how to rag roll your hair (need to try this)
I love this ad: 5 reasons to ban gay marriage. (Warning: contains profanity.)
I thought this essay was beautifully written.
wow. This is incredible.
am I the only person who absolutely loves macro photographs?
in other news, I recently finished reading this book, and it was really interesting. Also a fast read.

And that's all for now. No wedding this weekend! Plenty of editing (and an engagement shoot) instead!

covetable

2011-07-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

Ran across a shop on etsy called k.slademade and I'm madly in love. Chic, simple, classic totes and clutches, at what strike me as very reasonable prices. As always, click on the images for more info!

to the beginners

2011-07-14T20:34:00.002-04:00

via artistmotherteacher

wednesday wonderfulness, just in under the wire

2011-07-13T18:25:00.003-04:00

I haven't spent much time on the computer this week; way too much work. And photoshoots. You know, I'm ok with that! Anyway, here's what I've been loving on the internets this week.

from kate spade: how to wear black and white.
wish I had been able to visit: rainbow city.
absolutely love this post about how to do it all. Super-practical. And inspiring.
Love this DIY wedding bouquet.
I definitely need more glitter tape in my life.
via gala darling: change the world or go the fuck home.
needle-free upholstery! Need to try this, I think.
how fun is this song?
um, delicious. Need to make, stat.
I think I need to check out some of these songs.
Loving Sarah Jessica's Vogue spread this month.
Also think Vanessa Paradis is gorgeous.

And that's it for now, lovelies.

inspire yourself

2011-07-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

listening

2011-07-08T20:04:00.001-04:00

The video itself is a bit cheesy, but I love the melody line and the violin bits.

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-07-06T21:27:00.002-04:00

Wow. Short list this week. What with the holiday weekend and all, I just haven't had time to putter around on the internets.

Vag Magazine: a commentary on feminism. Opinions, please?
I ADORE this half-up do. Now if my hair would just get long enough...
I found myself trying out some of these tutorials recently...
Love this TED session by Mike Rowe.
wait. Did you know there is such a thing as edible glitter stars? Why do I not own these???
I'm kinda loving the Miu Miu campaign with Hailee Seinfeld. It's just fun!
Ok, these rings? FANTASTIC.
omg. these photos are gorgeous.

I know. But I need sleep! Night, lovelies.

snapshots from a reunion

2011-07-04T08:00:00.000-04:00

This weekend was our family reunion. The big one. When other people talk about their family reunions, they mention thirty or forty people. Sometimes maybe sixty. For my family, my dad's side? 150. And it was a low year.

See, my grandfather is one of ten kids, each of who had at least three children, and most of them more than that. If you do the math, you realize that is some swift multiplication.

Anyway, I've spent the last six months or so helping to plan this event (I was dragooned onto the committee), and proceeded to spend most of Saturday finishing up the family directory. Which, of course, has at least 27 errors in it that were only noticed after printing. But once I finished that, I pulled out my camera and tried to take a few photos.

There was homemade ice cream.
There were puppies and small children on trikes.
There were adorably fat babies.

And there was a sunday morning service.

We've been attending these reunions since I was barely old enough to walk, and it seems like yesterday that I was the one in the playhouse and on the swing. Now it's my turn, and so I'm trying to capture the memories, for soon? Soon I will be old.

heehee

2011-06-29T14:22:00.001-04:00

Yes, I laughed. Its the trailer for every oscar winning film ever.

"Inspiring final lines of a speech that douchebags will quote in their facebook profiles!"

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-06-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

So this is what I have.

famous paintings NOW INVOLVING SHOES. Some of these I love, some I think could have been much more subtle.
Ok, this collection of movie memorabila? Amazing. Although I'm particularly fixated on the Marilyn Monroe dress from "The Seven Year Itch." I want to make one of my own!
an ode to girlfriends everywhere. Love. This.
this ad disturbs me so much. I don't even...
this song is superrad.
um, I need to make this.
also: peanut butter taste testing!
oh dear. Carrot cake stuffed with cheesecake? NOM.
Review of an exhibit at the Ferragamo museum. What? I didn't know there was such awesomeness!

And with that I'm peacing out, lovelies. I need to go run some aerobic intervals!

probably too good to be true

2011-06-28T08:00:00.002-04:00

I don't know how I found this online store, but they seem to have more than their fair share of adorable shoes! All the ones I'm showing below are under $50, and I love them, but I'm quite terrified that, once purchased, they would look incredibly cheap. However, it's fun to think about.

All images property of lulus.com.

hauntingly beautiful

2011-06-27T20:57:00.003-04:00

I found this project by accident, and I've been hanging on to it. So beautiful. I can't stop going back and flipping through the images. I want to know the stories!

What do you think?

inspiration for the weekend

2011-06-24T15:05:00.003-04:00

I just finished watching the documentary No Impact Man, and I decided to see what he's been up to since the film finished. Well, he's still blogging, and I love the article that he posted on his blog.

The question is not whether you can make a difference. The question is, do you want to be the person who tries? ...Don’t worry about the second step. Just be too stupid to know the first step won’t work.

straight up stripper shoes

2011-06-24T08:00:00.000-04:00

Aren't these fantastic? I couldn't resist. And even I was having trouble walking in them. But seriously. Amazing.

vintage short shorts, oh yes!

2011-06-23T08:00:00.000-04:00

So the other day I was perusing the racks at my local Salvation Army, looking for awesomeness, and I found (besides an amazing Gunne Sax dress) these shorts. They're high waisted! And denim! And SHORT. So, since it was 90 degrees here yesterday, I busted them out. I decided to go with a slightly vintage look, so I added a white wife-beater and fun wedges, along with a bright red lip.

Shorts: thrifted

tank: target

wedges: ebay

sunglasses: marshalls

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-06-22T08:00:00.002-04:00

Hello lovelies! I know I haven't been around much this past week; it's been a week, k? But I did have some time to poke around on the internets and find good stuff for you.

This tutorial looks really interesting.
Oh. Oh goodness. Honestly: is this something you would try?
um, her skinny pant refashion? PERFECTION.
I feel like I could possibly find some awesome new music here.
this is definitely how I feel about planking.
I am absolutely enthralled with this website. to quote someone: "You look at this gorgeous girl and realize she's the same size as me. So maybe I'm gorgeous too?" Lovelove. When I punched in my height, weight, and body type, I was shocked to discover that the bodies on display were, in fact, beautiful.
can I please have a dessert table? Please?
and you know, just in case you care, here is the ongoing map of places that I need to visit when I have time in NYC. (And here are my favorites, the ones I make time for EVERY TIME.)
definitely checking out this playlist.
love the light in this editorial.
am I the only person who is very annoyed that every single one of these photos were shot on an angle? It's so contrived!
love that this editorial is so different from the usual swimsuit spreads. Very much about the form. Consequently, it's beautiful.

That's it for now, lovelies. Although if anyone wants to share their google maps with me, I'd love to see!

listening on a Tuesday

2011-06-21T19:20:00.002-04:00

Some old school stuff, but still lovely.

And this is just funny.

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-06-15T08:00:00.003-04:00

No theme this week that I can discern.

this is super-helpful: where to eat near penn station. I'm always starving by the time I arrive in the city, and nothing looks good...totally bookmarking this on my phone.
who runs the world?
smores on a stick!
I think there's a DIY in there somewhere...
omg. I love this illusion so much.
this is some lovely ink.
how gorgeous are these two girls?
someone buy these for me, please?
ahhhh! disco inspiration!

That's it for now.....more when I get back from the city, I think.

hand-me-downs

2011-06-13T08:00:00.001-04:00

I wore this awesome skirt to church yesterday and got about 27 compliments on it, my outfit, the way I dress in general....you know the drill. I have to admit, though, that it was given to me by my sister. She's gotten too skinny for it (I KNOW) so, you know, now it fits me.

Anyway. Skirt: handmedown (from express). Blouse: gap. Shoes: Tahari. Purse/bangles: vintage.

things to hang on your walls

2011-06-09T18:56:00.002-04:00

Lately I've become enamored with Supermarket, a place for amazing designers and artists to sell their wares. (It's much more curated than Etsy.) Look at the images I've picked out below, and you can see why. All of these are listed for $60 or less, usually less. Addictive, no? (As always, click on the images for more information.)

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-06-08T15:40:00.002-04:00

you know the drill.

found a new training program to run to. (Yes, I've finished the couch to 5k.) Pretty excited about building my base milage.
would gladly wear any of these.
love this refashion
via the always-lovely deanna raybourn: what should I read next. It works! Fun times.
loving this photo project.
I love lists. Especially those belonging to other people. Is that weird?
how to quit your job, move to paradise, and get paid to change the world. enough said.
loving these super-random photos.
superheroes at home.
online interior decoration magazine? Yes please!
how to match plaids and stripes. File under "good to know"
how a super-model prepares for a casting.
claudia schiffer still has it. That's all I'm saying.
Ok, I LOVE LOVE LOVE this PSA.

That's all for now, lovelies.

tissue paper never looked so lovely

2011-06-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

All images property of Pom Pom Factory.

I feel like I suddenly want beautiful pom poms everywhere.

sometimes you just get lucky

2011-06-06T08:00:00.002-04:00

I know I haven't done an outfit post in forever on here, but that's because I don't wear anything interesting any more. Or if I do, I just don't make the time to take a picture.
Anyway, I found this adorable dress for about five dollars in a goodwill in a really snooty town about an hour away. We went there on my birthday weekend, and completely scored on the vintage front. You can't really see the adorable bow detailing on the front. But you can see my lovely brown patent wedges that I had to put on when my green sandals broke.

watch and waste time

2011-06-03T08:00:00.001-04:00

Beautiful things that make me happy this Friday. No particular rhyme or reason, I just love them.

Amazing shoes being made. By hand.

Esquivel from David Hubert on Vimeo.

Pillow fight!

Pillow Fight! from Mindrelic on Vimeo.

An older one, but good.

Adorable! Vintage! Do wah!

how to: wear white

2011-06-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

This post was supposed to be ready monday, but then life intervened. So here it is, a few days late.
Fact: I spend the weeks between memorial day wearing white pretty much every single day. I own no less than eight pairs of white pants, as well as several white dresses and white skirts. OXYCLEAN IS MY FRIEND. I pick up white at the end of season sales every summer, so yeah, my collection is a little out of control. Anyway, wanted to share a few of my favorite ways to wear it so that it looks fresh and classy instead of eighties redux.

wearing white: jeans by vintagechica featuring clear jewelry

Skinny jeans, heels, simple stripes? Sign me up. Key to wearing white: I try to keep lines pretty simple. It's very attention-getting, anyway, so you don't need lots of furbelows. (My particular white skinnies are by Michael Kors and they are ahMAZing. Flats, heels, wedges...everything looks good with them.)

wearing white skirts by vintagechica featuring a knee length pencil skirt

I really almost wore this outfit the other day. My shirt is cut slightly different, but that's the color. You know how everyone has that one color that makes them look PERFECT? (Mine is cobalt blue.) Pair THAT color next to your face with a perfectly cut white skirt, and suddenly you're turning heads right and left. And you feel like a million dollars. Also: I'm currently obsessed with layering necklaces. My sister started it, and right now I wear almost daily: an elephant on a gold chain (gift from sister), a silver platypus (favorite animal) and a silver manatee (second favorite animal). I'm also working on mixing gold and silver.

wearing white: wide legged pants by vintagechica featuring leather tote bags

All white. Head to toe. This takes guts to wear, but such fun. Wide-legged pants, fitted top, flat sandals...add texture through accessories. And add drama (if you need more!) with red lippy.

What's your favorite way to wear white?

wednesday wonderfulness, still running behind

2011-06-01T21:19:00.003-04:00

Not much happening around here, but I've got a couple of things for you.

I love this bracelet.
Super-amazing makeup tutorials. (I've so used the kitten-flick one!)
Yeah, I have no idea what this music video shows (slow motion dogs?) but I cannot stop listening to the song.
Um, this wordpress theme looks AHMAZING. (full disclosure: created by some friends of mine. And yes, that's one of my photos at the beginning.)
Outtakes from Bridesmaids. NSFW. Fact: I LOVED THIS MOVIE. It was funny, it was smart, yes, it was crude, but Kristen Wiig is just rad.
fact: pretty girls do get free stuff. Super-interesting.
newest issue of matchbook is up! pretty sure I love every single page.

Ok, it's back to the grind for me.

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-05-25T18:57:00.003-04:00

A little late going up, I know. But this week is more insane than usual, you guys. (I know: you all have lives to. It's my own stinking fault.) Anyway, good stuff, I say!

I just think this editorial feels fun, in addition to being simply executed.
also, Rachel McAdams is just gorgeous.
this lady turns her apartment into an art gallery. I love it.
loving this band.
how to find art in thrift stores. LOVE.
a gossip girl guide to nyc. I like blair's picks best.
OMG. how lovely is this cover of britney spear's latest. No, really. At least watch the first bit. SCOTTISH ACCENTS, k?
I like the concluding thoughts on this essay.
music video called "underwear." incredibly cool visuals.
retro costumes! I may have gone on to watch everything by this troop. Troupe?
also amazing visuals. very eighties and neon-ish. LOVE.

in which I think about where I've been

2011-05-24T20:19:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago a friend linked to this online magazine on facebook, and reading it brought back so many memories. I remember being raised to believe much of what is written therein, and I almost linked it in a wednesday wonderfulness post, but I thought that more discussion was warranted. I don't necessarily DISbelieve it all, I'm just...a little removed. (Ok honestly? The earnestness and "sweet spirit" with which it was written just brings back WAY TOO MANY memories.)

But anyway, whatever. The thing that I wanted to mention starts on page 30, and is talking about "what warrior poets are looking for in a wife." There are many virtues and qualities listed, and then comes this paragraph:

"spend your years of singleness lavishly upon Christ. You can do things right now as a young single woman that a married woman with children just CAN'T do. Study the Word of God voraciously. Give yourself in service to your King. Your future husband will love the virtues that result from such disciplines!"

The italics are mine. I guess it breaks my heart, because, you see, this is how I was raised. Good Christian girls grow up, marry good Christian guys, and have good Christian babies. And don't get me wrong: there's nothing wrong with that! If that's what you want, go for it. But other options were never presented. When, at 19, I wasn't married or courting (!) anyone, my dad began to worry.

Anyway. I don't think being a Christian and being a feminist are mutually exclusive. Am I crazy here? Please give me some feedback.

worth watching

2011-05-23T16:00:00.001-04:00

Half. It's lovely, and beautiful, and simple.

things that make me smile today

2011-05-19T10:02:00.002-04:00

iron man dancing.

roosevelt on a moose.

a step group.

that is all.

sometimes I just like to look at shoes

2011-05-19T08:00:00.001-04:00

shoes I <3 by vintagechica featuring patent leather pumps

That is all. Carry on.

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-05-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

No theme this week, as far as I can see.

must try this: chocolate mousse in five minutes.
two quotes I love this week: get over where you're from and how to set the world on fire
things that made me laugh this week:ages when men are too old to wear... and overrated things
how to build a champagne pyramid!
how does grey goose relate to you as a small business owner?
love these: rejected book covers.
can someone please buy me this?
the periodic table of storytelling? What?
making baby shoes? love this!
how perfect is this wedding decor?
umbrella inspiration!
foods that have been added to the list for my next NYC visit (yes, I maintain a running list): zaab elee, cauliflower pizza, chocolate mousse.
intriguing: interview with Lagerfeld. This might be worth a post of its own...he has some intriguing viewpoints.

music to make you glad it's getting warmer

2011-05-14T16:30:00.002-04:00

Blow/Kesha Hey Baby/No Doubt Peaches/Presidents of the United States of America Kissed It/Macy Gray You've Lost that Lovin' Feelin'/The Righteous Brothers S&M/Rihanna You Send Me/Aretha Franklin Mango Pickle Down River/MIA Lady Marmalade/Moulin Rouge Who You Are/Jessi J Bad Girls/Vicki Leekx Never Gonna Fool Your Gold/dj lobsterdust Starts With One/Shiny Toy Guns Emphatically No/Salt-n-Pepa Big Girl (you are beautiful)/Mika Work That Fat/Prince Take Off Your Cool/Outkast and Norah Jones

wednesday wonderfulness, a day late

2011-05-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

Sorry, guys. The weeks are just getting crazier from here. But that's awesome! Cause it means summer must be here!

So what are your thoughts on temporary lace tattoos and lip tattoos. Would you wear either? Honestly, I'm kind of digging both. Not sure where would be a good place to wear either, though.
movies to cheer you up!
so you want to shoot film? Here are some ideas to get you started!
love this music video!
OMG! loving this online magazine SOSO much.
I feel like this link is going to be sent to a couple of friends of mine. (As a pointed hint. That they won't get because they're THAT AWKWARD.)
I don't know if you remember the fort we saw in Key West last winter, but I wanted to do a trash the dress/bridal shoot there. Well, now I know what it MIGHT look like. So lovely.
Hm. I've been messing around with this app maker, but so far I'm not loving the results. Anyone else?
I feel like if I ever have a real office, it will need some of these hanging next to my think different posters. That I've yet to acquire.
What??? Suddenly I no longer need to make 8tracks mixes!
And your fix of pretty pictures for the week: modern bonnie and clyde, amazing hats, adorable children, multiple personalities.

when you need ideas

2011-05-10T14:10:00.002-04:00

I love watching music videos. All of the visual inspiration of a movie, without the time commitment. You don't have to like the song: sometimes just the images are enough. Currently I'm loving:

• only girl in the world by rihanna. I love the wall of flowers, the yellow poppies, her bright red hair. I kind of want a bright pink room now, since i can't have a bright pink desert.

• stuck like glue by sugarland. I don't even listen to country, so I have no idea how I ended up seeing this one. But oh my word: how cute is she? And her clothes? I need a pair of leopard gloves now!

• it's amazing by jem. Makes me want to take lots of sun-soaked photos and mess about with stop motion.

What is inspiring you right now?

since you've certainly already bought a mother's day gift

2011-05-06T17:18:00.002-04:00

Use your leftover pennies to pick up one of these cuties. Knit, comfy, hide a multitude of sins, I think. And currently an additional 25% off the sale price! It's practically fiscally responsible. Both from Rachel Roy: click on the images for more info.

bake these. You won't regret it.

2011-05-05T08:00:00.004-04:00

Lemons. Butter. Sugar.
There's not much to a perfect lemon square. But the results? Magic.
I picked up a cookbook at the library last week called Chewy Gooey Crispy Crunchy Melt-In-Your-Mouth Cookies. It's BRILLIANT. So far every recipe I've tried has been fantastic, and many of them (including the one I'm about to share) can be made easily without a mixer. WIN!
Ingredients:

(for the crust)

7 tablespoons melted butter

2 tablespoons sugar

3/4 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup flour

(for the filling)

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar

3 tablespoons flour

3 large eggs

1 1/2 teaspoons grated lemon zest

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

Line an 8-inch square baking pan with foil.

Preheat oven to 350. Position rack in lower third of the oven.

(crust) In a medium bowl, combine melted butter with sugar, vanilla, and salt.

Add the flour and mix until incorporated.

Press dough evenly over bottom of pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is fully baked.

(filling) While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. Usually about two lemons are all I require for the zest.

And four lemons produce enough juice for this recipe. (My lemons were pretty small, though.)

Stir together the flour and sugar (I use the same bowl). Whisk in the eggs.

Stir in the lemon zest and juice.

When the crust is ready, turn the oven down to 300.

Pour the filling onto the hot crust, and bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until the topping barely jiggles in the center when the pan is tapped.
Let cool in pan. When cooled, lift up the foil and transfer to a cutting board. Use a long, sharp knife to cut in either 16 or 25 squares. (I usually go for 25.)
Enjoy. They're awesomely tangy and delicious.

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-05-04T08:00:00.002-04:00

Yeah...I shot my first wedding of the season this weekend, and I'm trying to run a 5k on Saturday. So all my spare time is spent, you know, working on stuff. I know, excuses. And I have good stuff to throw here! I just need to make the time... Anyway. (Also: currently my husband is working about 12 hours a day. Thus, the season has begun in which we see each other for about a half an hour a day.)

This video horrifies me on so many levels.
this project is intriguing.
incredibly gorgeous nature videos. (Fave: spider attack. WATCH TO THE END.)
this slideshow is riveting. And mindblowing.
portfolios that I can't stop looking at: ben sandler, jason bell, louis lander-deacon.
what? A chocolate and cocktail pairing based on my favorite candy bar? Yes please! (Although that drink scares me.)

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-04-27T16:54:00.002-04:00

Oh dear. This poor blog. Ok then.

totally ogling this portfolio.
posting this because she references rape culture and I thought it was an interesting commentary considering the conversation we had about it a few weeks back.
Two from the Rumpus: the heroic lie and unsolicited writing advice.
So I've finally decided that people who don't use shampoo are ALSO people who don't use styling product. And while I respect that decision? Sweeties: my hair, it needs the product. But despite all that: if you're interested, here's how to do it.
Just...YUM. (Also, there are recipies.)
this is fantastic. I got it from my sister. Read it, please.
gorge.
intriguing.
lovely poem.
fairly snarky post from a barista...and the response. I think both sides need some adjustment, personally. But I tend to side with the customer, mostly. (Except for the part about hating my job. I love my job, otherwise I wouldn't do it. But I hate it when people treat me as less-than-human.)

Thoughts, dear ones? Lots of reading this week, less eye candy. You can see what I've been doing.

listening

2011-04-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

Some newer, some older...I'm loving this stuff right now.

And in a shocking development, it would appear I've started listening to women vocalists. What???

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-04-20T08:00:00.001-04:00

Agh. Don't you want to attend this retrospective?
I feel I may need to pick up the copy of Vogue Italia that contains this editorial.
this is so cool I think my brain just melted.
loving this song
laughing my face off.
you know, I've always thought that Audrey quote was overused...but this kinda makes me love it.
loving these color comparisons.
"Those things you've been calling dreams? Start calling those your goals."
So my current favorite site when I need a good read is longform, and it's a little addictive. Current favorites include: inside the tax prep business, traveling to Europe from inside China, a profile of the (slightly terrifying) Lynn Tilton.

Ok, that's all for now, lovelies. Peace out.

three, no, four awesome things that happened today

2011-04-19T22:59:00.001-04:00

That I had to share.

1. My boss was throwing an empty milk jug backwards over his shoulder toward the trash can, and it hit me square in the head. No, I wasn't hurt. Instead, I laughed very very hard.

2. Today I met an adorable child named Cooper with GIANT DIMPLES.

3. I also met someone whose favorite animal is the manatee.

4. My brother in law is taking me to a driving range on Saturday and I can attempt this golf thing. WHAT??? Awesomesauce, I say.

That is all. Carry on.

self-portrait project, the final installment

2011-04-19T08:00:00.002-04:00

project 52, week 50

Yes, I know I'm short by two images. But the goal was always to end this on or around my 30th birthday, and if I've learned anything this year, it's that I'm an inherently boring subject. I've written a LOT of words, I've taken a bunch of photos, and I feel rather narcissistic and ready to be done with this. At this point, anyway, I've explored all I want to with myself as a subject. To recap: you can see all of the images here, but all of them with blogging are here. Personal favorites are probably this one, this one, and this one. When it comes to the essays, I like this, this, and this one.

I guess I'm actually going to have to generate content for this old blog-thing now.

watch this on a monday

2011-04-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

It's slightly addictive.

self portrait project, almost complete

2011-04-14T15:28:00.001-04:00

project 52, week 49
Yeah, so, I'm a few weeks behind. But I'm ok with that, I think. (debating wether to continue it past my birthday or just finish with week 50 tomorrow.)

So. If you know me in person at all, you know that I'm pretty much the worlds most un-athletic person. I. Hate. Exercise. Hate everything about it: the clothing, the sweating, the fact that my face turns BRIGHT RED. It doesn't help that I'm also a natural born klutz, and four years of ballet lessons left me able to...walk. Without tripping.
I also have a extremely bizarre obsession with NOT BEING SEEN TO SWEAT. I've never been to a gym because I'm freaked out about having anyone SEE what a wimp I am. I absolutely hate the way I look when I run: all jiggly and huffy and slow, so when I used to go running near my house, I'd wait until after dark so the neighbors couldn't see. (For some reason my friends were concerned about the idea of me running after dark on rural roads. I was only worried about rabid raccoons.)
So I'm as shocked as you are to realize that, this time around? I'm actually enjoying running. I'm still huffing and puffing, but I'm actually looking forward to my daily run, and I find myself running five days a week.
I think I reached a turning point last week. First of all, I took my running gear when I went out of town with friends for the weekend so I wouldn't have to miss a run. Then I pulled on my sneakers before almost everyone else woke up, and found myself running down a street, in broad daylight, not caring if people thought I had bad form or saw me sweat.
Maybe, finally, I'm growing up.

wednesday wonderfulness

2011-04-13T08:00:00.002-04:00

Hi lovelies! Sorry posting has been so sporadic lately; even the self-portrait project is waning. I have a birthday this weekend (woohoo!) and time with le sisters, and hopefully something will start happening around here again. In the meantime, enjoy some interestingness.

foods for gorgeous skin. I think post birthday we're going to be chowing on lots of these...swimsuit season, yo!
barista championships? What? I want to see!
I am madly in love with this tattoo.
Love this cosmetic case tutorial. (via Fairytales and Frenchfries)
Oh my. These fashions are amazing.
These albums? GORGEOUS.
Creating the perfect cheese plate? I think I will!
reese witherspoon + elephants? Ok then!
whaaaaat? Make a light up sparkling tutu.
mmm. how to make big sexy hair.
I'm obsessed with the ideas of wearing flowers in my hair for said birthday (inspired by this photo), and I found a TON of awesome flower headband tutorials. Now I want to make them all! Flowers on a stretchy headband, interchangeable flowers, flowers and feathers, jcrew-ish flowers, organza flowers. (But really: would it be too over the top if I just wore giant flowers pinned in my hair? I'm turning 30, after all.)

Ok lovelies, that's all for now.