dita's daily

simple, beautiful

2010-07-25T09:13:00.003-04:00

In searching through older emails, I unearthed this gem from bun. The subject line read "simple, beautiful." I couldn't agree more.

for little bun

2010-07-19T18:04:00.002-04:00

I love the way this cubby system (found in a magazine but I forget which one!) organizes everything including the bed in this children's room. The positioning of the bed within the wall seems ideal for little imaginations to roam, too.

chat

2010-07-05T16:30:00.004-04:00

After a busy holiday weekend of playing by the pool and eating, Jon and I recovered at home today. I started my morning (er, afternoon) with a long overdue chat with Lana! I can't wait until she posts her screen shot of when we put our pets on gchat! LB, it was great to talk to you! Mwah!!!!

bricks and mortar

2010-06-26T17:42:00.003-04:00

We were tossing around the idea of exposing a 24'long x 12' high brick wall on our first floor wall. We walked around Olde City this afternoon and saw tons of inspiration, sort of like this image of the shop, Old Faithful, (thanks, Haley!) which pushed me over the edge...we're going to do it!

white hot

2010-05-31T09:47:00.005-04:00

I've been sidetracked from fashion for a while. My inspiration searches have been home-focused since we're redoing the back yard, then the upstairs bathroom, then refacing our facade. But I did see the summer whites spread in Glamour magazine and was totally inspired to:

1) get a tan

2) stop eating cake for lunch

3) buy/wear white and silver all summer long

all photos from Glamour.com

bed couch!

2010-04-22T12:50:00.003-04:00

One day, we up and bought a new (to us) sofa. Something about it spoke to us from the vintage store window. So we rented a U-Haul and jammed that sucker into the house. Then i said, "I've always wanted a bed couch," and the next day, there she was. Jon turned our vintage treasure into my dream sofa.
Now we are working on re-upholstering her. I love the random assortment of prints used for kantha fabrics. Above is a lovely stack and below is another inspiration image. The palette of these is a little feminine but the overall feeling of ethnic/eccentric mixing is what we're going for.

Bed couch!

I heart M.I.A.

2010-04-20T14:01:00.001-04:00

Awesome New M.I.A. Images

salivateria

2010-03-29T18:23:00.003-04:00

How did I not know about this website. everyone who knows me well enough to receive gifts will be thanking their stars for this one!

the ultimate

2010-03-28T19:59:00.003-04:00

Today I discovered the shop and blog of Chef Tyler Florence. The virtual tour of the store is enough to keep you entertained and inspired but then there's more! There is a shop, a blog, videos. Seriously, this is what I've been doing for the past hour and I'm not stopping anytime soon. Go there. NOW.

*even the header logo (above) from the site is cool

are we there yet?

2010-02-21T10:00:00.003-05:00

..to Spring, that is. I'm so sick of winter. Until the warm weather comes, bun and I will be dreaming of a backyard makeover. So far, this is our favorite inspiration.

his

2010-02-07T14:04:00.004-05:00

I'm always looking for great gifts for my bun. He makes me incredible things and creates an amazing space for us to live in...so in return I show him appreciation by cooking and occasionally surprising him with a thoughtful gift. I'm starting a list so I don't forget cool stuff I see that reminds me of him.

This flask is from JCrew's updated line of men's accessories. It's refined and fun (look at that quote!).

the dream team

2010-01-24T19:29:00.003-05:00

blue balls

2010-01-01T15:54:00.003-05:00

If you've been over to our place (or heard any of my stories as of February 2009), you know that I live with lots of blue balls...thanks to Jonathan. Haley sent me a link to this design is mine post about artist Anna Lilja. Haley's email said, "This is how I imagine your babies in their very own ball pit." Well, Haley, this is how I see it, too. (and evidently how Anna sees it as well!). Click photos to link.

new year, new stuff

2010-01-01T15:50:00.003-05:00

love these...yes, please! (via oh joy)

the harmons

2009-12-21T09:39:00.001-05:00

Haley just sent around this video of her first tree with hubby Jason. Tender.

Our Christmas Tree from Jason Harmon on Vimeo.

the first!

2009-12-21T09:31:00.003-05:00

Over the weekend I received my first Christmas present. Too tempted to save it for 12/25, I tore open the envelope (carefully) to reveal this amazing image from Betsy Walton:Accompanying this amazing print was a tender card from Lana. How did she know that I love Betsy Walton? That I'm familiar with her work and have this (below) artwork on my desk now?
LB, thank you for searching for the perfect gift to make me feel all warm and fuzzy. Yours is in the mail and I can only hope to return that same feeling to you! Mwah!

*all images from Betsy Walton's etsy site

Austin is awesome, part 2

2009-12-05T15:10:00.006-05:00

This is pretty much my mantra. I'm glad someone in Austin agrees with me, too. Other than shopping and visiting our stores, Jeni and I also ate well while in Austin. The three block stretch on South Congress near our hotel was brimming with wonderful restaurants and other unconventional placed to grab a bite.

Case in point: Jeni posed in front of Crepes Mille. And it's not the only food trailer on the street, either. In fact, there were 4-5 awesome places on one stretch of S. Congress ranging from crepes to pies to cupcakes (below!).

This is where I got an awesome cupcake to enjoy after dinner. You can check out hey, cupcake! right here.

I chose 'the standard' because the 'Michael Jackson' was sold out!

Pre-dinner, we stopped at Big Top Candy Shop to load up on sweets to bring home. I even did some secret santa shopping here. They have a soda fountain and everything!

Aah, dinner. I may be going on about desserts a lot but my tuna salad from South Congress Cafe was amazing. Served with avocado dressing!

The morning we left I would've totally gone to Jo's (which shares the lot with our hotel) but there is outdoor seating and it was freeeezing. Next time, Jo's!

Austin is awesome, part 1

2009-12-05T14:44:00.004-05:00

I'm lucky to be able to travel for work, but corporate rate and agreements don't usually equal exciting hotel choices. I searched independently and found the Hotel San Jose and was given the green light to book it for my recent Austin trip. I could go on and on about this hotel, the incredibly nice staff and wonderful location, but I'll let these select photos do most of the talking.

The rooms are all like little homes in an urban garden. #30 was mine!

Austin weather is not usually in the 30's with snow in the forecast (like it was for my stay) so the rooms are focused on keeping things cool. Despite the gorgeous concrete floors and ample windows, my room was still very cozy when I cranked up the heat and snuggled in the comfy bed.

Even Santa feels right at home in the courtyard at the Hotel San Jose. I'm already planning my next trip back!

So many coats!

2009-12-05T14:25:00.003-05:00

While in Austin on Thursday and Friday with Jeni, I had no expectations for personal shopping. We were there to work. But, our amazing hotel was in the middle of a great part of town called South Congress and we were lucky enough to arrive on First Thursday. All the shops were open late; some served snacks and wine! Austin has great vintage shops and on First Thursdays, there are pop up flea markets everywhere. I really scored big!!

I found this one first, or I should say it found me. There was a mini flea market in the hotel parking lot so before we even got started, I snapped up this wooly wrap coat. I can't believe how perfect this coat is!

I feel like Santa's niece in this cute coat. I got it at feathers boutique. And there were five pennies in the pocket! I think they brought me luck.

And lucky I was when I scored this fur beauty for $60. I'm not giving up the source of this find, though!

coming home

2009-11-19T19:10:00.002-05:00

No matter how bad my day might be, I always come home to this. I love him..

If I had a million dollars..

2009-10-31T16:48:00.005-04:00

I would buy these...starting with the above illia sequined nappa leather cutaway jacket.

And the tinsley sweater by Kimberly Ovitz. (click photo to link)

day 5 - the dirty clothes project

2009-09-18T22:32:00.003-04:00

Well, the week came and went and while the project was fun, I'm ready for a change (and so is my dress!). So, the final day:

necklace: vintage, tan cashmere cardigan: _____, ag distressed jeans: agjeans.com (link to similar), yellow & tan huarache wedge sandals: zappos (link to similar)

day 4 - the dirty clothes project

2009-09-17T17:48:00.004-04:00

Day 4 brought new inspiration. I was somewhere between a ballerina, jazzercising, and a waitress (with the b/w combo).
white jersey top: pete & greta, rose quartz necklace: asis, black leggings: marshalls, Seychelles cut out heels: urban outfitters

day 3 just me - the dirty clothes project

2009-09-16T20:25:00.005-04:00

So day 3 taught me a few lessons. It's harder than I thought to wear the same basic item all week. Alex couldn't hack it and I almost threw in the towel, too. But, here I am and here's what I wore:

grey striped cardigan: urban outfitters (link to similar), magenta silk top: urban outfitters, gold stud peep-toe pumps: sigerson morrison for target

day 2 - the dirty clothes project

2009-09-15T13:05:00.004-04:00

Alex
rust top: vintage, necklace: manu, tan suede booties: urban outfitters (link is to similar)
me
cardigan, necklace, landlubber jeans, huarache wedges: all urban outfitters 2005-2008

snow wizzle

2009-09-15T13:00:00.001-04:00

is finally on you tube!

day 1 - the dirty clothes project

2009-09-14T17:15:00.004-04:00

So here we are on day 1. what are we doing? click here.
Alex (left)
black jumper: vintage, black cardigan: vintage, shoes: urban outfitters, bracelet: manu
me
black tube dress: american apparel, gray crop top: urban outfitters, black oxford booties: urban outfitters (link is to similar), silver knotted necklace: forever21

fall in line

2009-09-09T11:59:00.003-04:00

A few years ago, I made myself start liking the fall. It worked and now I look forward to the season that follows my favorite. This year I will be focusing on getting organized and sticking to a budget. Part of that budget may mean getting rid of cable and swapping out for tv via my computer a la hulu and the like. I also think a deliciously cozy reading nook (like this one) would help take the pain of cable withdrawal away while coaxing me to curl up with a book and some tea.

ilovedresses

2009-09-08T21:19:00.002-04:00

I recently made a very important dress purchase but ever since I keep seeing more dresses I can't resist. Take this j'adorable wildfox couture Indian Brave dress. yes, please. In fact, I'll take two.

I think I'm famous...

2009-09-08T21:01:00.004-04:00

sometimes. I never take myself seriously but I always pretend I'm in a documentary or that there's a soundtrack to my life. I assume everyone does this. Thanks to Lana, I will now fantasize about being famous as I ascend these stairs (in my mind).

click to link, etc

super easy sauce

2009-08-25T21:00:00.005-04:00

Over the weekend, I was watching Ina Garten and she did this 4 minute raspberry sauce. It wasn't even a segment on the show, she just talked about the absurdly easy recipe for 10 seconds and knew anyone could memorize it. But then I couldn't remember it so I recreated what I thought was her recipe and it's not bad! (The embarrassing part is my completely awful memory!)

My ingredients:

6 oz fresh raspberries

no sugar - forgot

3 splashes cranberry juice

4 glops strawberry jam

My recipe:

Put everything in a pot on the stove, turn on heat and forget that you are cooking. Run to the stove, shout obscenity, and remove from heat (aprox 4 minutes later). Dump into a food processor and blend until liquefied.

Ina's ingredients:

1 half-pint package fresh raspberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1 cup (12 ounces) seedless raspberry jam
1 tablespoon Framboise liqueur

Ina's recipe:

Place the package of raspberries, the granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for 4 minutes. Pour the cooked raspberries, the jam, and Framboise into the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade and process until smooth. Chill.

jewelry roundup

2009-08-25T20:06:00.012-04:00

Lizzie Fortunato for Urban Outfitters

Lauren Manoogian, Manu collection, Hex necklace in mauve, @ creatures of comfort

Machine de terre collection, Aesa jewelry, @ the Pangea pop-up at Space 1520 Arielle DePinto, Anntian collab, @ the Pangea pop-up at Space 1520

twinkle toes

2009-08-24T10:06:00.003-04:00

It's not that often that my friend and co-worker, Amy, comes bouncing over to my desk on a Monday morning. She was completely ecstatic...and for good reason! Today she found out that the (above) shoes she's been pining over to wear on her wedding day are HERS! I love Amy's individuality and spirit. I think these awesome Chuck Taylor's are a perfect expression of her personality. I can't wait to find out more details about her wedding. I'm sure it will be just as awesome and surprising as these shoes!

a new project

2009-08-23T20:32:00.003-04:00

This is Sheena Matheiken (I think). I forget how I found The Uniform Project but here's the premise:

"Starting May 2009, I have pledged to wear one dress for one year as an exercise in sustainable fashion. Here’s how it works: There are 7 identical dresses, one for each day of the week. Every day I will reinvent the dress with layers, accessories and all kinds of accoutrements, the majority of which will be vintage, hand-made, or hand-me-down goodies."

Here are some of my favorite outfits from the project. A co-worker and I have challenged each-other to try this for a week. While we're just having fun with it, the real project raises money for charity. Maybe if we follow through, I'll post our pics for laughs.

eenie meenie

2009-08-23T19:18:00.003-04:00

The top image has been my summer inspiration. via knight cat.
But I can't help but look forward to fall. Now if only I could afford these YSL's....
Perhaps I'll settle for this ring that I can actually afford. and that's not a bad thing!

barcelooooona

2009-08-22T19:34:00.009-04:00

Once upon a time, about two months ago, my friend Kim invited our friend Christy and me over for pizza...or so we thought. An hour and 1/2 later we'd booked a week-long trip to Barcelona, and the departure date was only about a month after! I'm so glad we decided to take this trip together because as things are shaping up (and shaking up), who knows if/when we'll be able to do it again.

Rather than post touristy shots, I'm including some personal highlights. Above is Spain from a plane.

street fashion highlights
This gorgeous woman is not a celebrity, she's my friend, Christy!

My travel mates: Christy and Kim.

a Spanish flea market

Confetti

Quite simply the best chocolate croissant on planet earth. I crowned it a tunnel of chocolate love.

cats

2009-08-12T18:18:00.003-04:00

I'm not a crazy cat person (most of the time) but today I really needed some distraction and these two kitties landed in my inbox and brightened my day. Hopefully, they have the same effect for days to come!
This one was forwarded from a friend and just said "lucky".

via wary meyers

dita's monthly

2009-07-02T19:28:00.005-04:00

Life (read "work") dictates how often I can escape to this virtual space to catalog some inspiration or other thought/food/whim/activity that brought me joy. I'm still loving every minute, but I'm a little more tired each day. There's no excuse today, though. I have been off work for hours so here's my reward for surviving this week..

The necklace at the top is called luv x1 by Angela Spencer. Her line is appropriately nicknamed ASIS, Angela Spencer's irresistible stuff, and it is! I bought the top necklace as a gift from me to me. It will be the perfect summer accessory (and is according to Lucky, to whom I owe thanks for introducing me to Angela's line). The above is simply "spooling." I can think of a few other hard workers I know who deserve this little beauty. Click images to link.

secret revealed!

2009-06-02T17:53:00.012-04:00

Through a stroke of luck, my job brought me in contact with the lovely and insanely talented Natasha Lawes. After my work was satisfied, I emailed her for a personal inquiry. Natasha, among other things, makes incredibly ornate skulls adorned with gems. My father, a physician, has always been interested in skulls and skeletons so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to get him a Natasha original. Natasha obliged my request for a bespoke skull and the images above and below show the final result...a limited edition 1 of 1 by Natasha Lawes for Papa C!

Since this skull was created for my father, I was able to customize some of the details to his taste. Natasha does lovely work with pearl and diamante, but for Papa C, we decided to go with rubies which are his favorite gems. It's not shown in the photos, but she also painted on a caduceus (the physician's symbol) like a tattoo on the back of the skull.

I think he was pretty pleased!

The skull enjoys a prime spot in the cabinet among his friends..

The painting was a gift from my step-sister. I'll post the artist once I ask her again.

adore and adorn

2009-05-11T18:03:00.005-04:00

Haley is ENGAGED!!!!!!! I am so incredibly happy for her and Jason. They are two peas in a pod, two bees in a hive(?). Above is either her ring or the closest image I could find of one like it. The above is from simply wood rings and is definitely the most beautiful one they sell (and it's so exactly Haley!). Congratulations again to Haley and Jason!!

Also, while in Brooklyn on Friday, I stopped in to a great new (to me) shop and discovered jewelry designer Hanna Sandin at Mc and Co. I almost spent $90 on this rope and pyramid stud-like bead necklace. Something about it just totally spoke to me (although not loud enough to shout over my empty wallet). I'll read about her here until I can afford a piece of my own. Center image from dossier.

secret

2009-05-04T12:30:00.002-04:00

Since about December I've been working on a very special gift for a very special someone. This is a teaser image. More images to come in a few weeks when the lucky recipient opens it with delight!

new

2009-05-04T11:46:00.008-04:00

So many things are new in my life. Spring has really been transformative. Above is my new summer muse. I will BE that girl this summer.

More new to come...

emma's always right

2009-03-25T17:40:00.004-04:00

Whenever I need a breath of fresh air, I check out Emma's designblogg. Her perspective is unique and I always leave her blog feeling really inspired. I also snagged this super cute card from her site. Click photo to link.

tied up

2009-03-25T17:19:00.007-04:00

Not long after my last post, my world was turned upside down...in a good way. I'm in a new position at work and, frankly, a new position in life. I'm still adjusting to all the change but I've neglected the blog and have been feeling a little less fulfilled as a result. There's something therapeutic about dumping ideas somewhere in a virtual space.
This post is all about being tied up, both literally and figuratively. The top image is from a girl I love! She's a co-worker and I'm always amazed at her talent. I bought a bracelet like the one above during a craft show we had at our offices but now anyone can get them on her etsy site!

These are just some inspiration shots of artfully distressed tees. I want to stock pile a load of tees and just go to town on them.

And I'm not immune to total impulse, trend-driven purchases. Especially when they involve something as of-the-moment as a Necklush. Who doesn't have one?

..still hungry

2009-01-15T15:31:00.004-05:00

Today is a wonderful day. I've spent loads of time going through my favorite blogs. It's considered 'work' which is even better. The image above is from this post at d* featuring the home of Marieke Berghuis Leewens. A few of her desk items are from the Parisian shop, Le Petit Atelier de Paris, and I immediately had to check out the site. Simple, adorable, amazing.

hungry for something new

2009-01-15T14:06:00.007-05:00

The kitchen seems to finally be in order after the renovation and subsequent settling in/reorganization. Never able to leave well enough alone, I am tempted to take the decorating to a new level. I love the plate wall and it's willingness to organically morph at my whim, but the rest of the room needs a little je ne sais quoi.
Enter deliciously amazing wallpaper from Tracy Kendall. At around $190 a roll, it's more art than wallpaper. I'm seriously in love with the scene above.

While I'm saving up for TK's wallpaper, I'll probably trim up and frame a few of these tea towels from Conran.

xmas roundup

2009-01-12T16:36:00.018-05:00

From a canceled trip to Thailand to celebrity parties, this holiday season was full of surprises. At first I was sad to cancel the Thailand trip but then I realized that traveling in December is a bad idea. I would've missed so much holiday magic! Here are just a few of the many, many wonderful memories I made this Christmas.
The lead photo is of LED-illuminated trees on the grounds at Longwood Gardens.

The second biggest surprise of this Christmas was when LB invited us to the Johnny Cupcakes (read=celebrity) Christmas party. We drove through the snow and stayed all weekend with our wonderful host, Johnny. Above are the pumpkin cupcakes with maple icing that we made for the party. All the rest of the food was catered, thank goodness, because there were about 50 people there. Still, it looks like the cupcakes were a big hit!

Me, LB, JC

Nupes (my sis!), and JC

..another shot of me and LB but I couldn't resist posting it. All the lovely photos are from JC's friend and photographer, Dave.

Next it was our turn to host a holiday gig so we worked tirelessly on this gorgeous spread. Everyone I work with came over for cocktails & hors d'oeuvre and a name-themed Polyanna gift exchange. For example, if your name is Lena Corrina, someone could get you 'little champagne' or 'lemons and coconuts.'

..the whole gang!

Even Rerun got in on the action and licked away at delicious icing on Jonathan's birthday cake (his birthday is Christmas!).

This year, my wrapping theme was recycled. I reused boxes and Japanese newspaper to create one-of-a-kind parcels.

Some unorthodox decorations at dear old Dad's.

Charles, the Christmas cat.

Even after the holiday season was technically over, I still needed a fix. On the first Saturday of the new year, I invited some friends to Terrain and Longwood Gardens. There are too many photos to share on the blog (the rest are here) but the one above is definitely a highlight. They had trees decorated in every color (top of this post), some with multi-colored lights that looked like gumballs, and then this incredible water and light display set to Christmas music.

I can feel that 2009 will be a wonderful year full of family, friends, and love.

osteria

2008-12-01T17:26:00.006-05:00

One hot summer evening this year, I had a celebratory dinner at Osteria. We couldn't have chosen a better place. The atmosphere is industrial yet warm and inviting. The menu is inventive and still approachable, but I did get some coaching from friends on how to really maximize our dining experience.

The Broad Street facade.

There is a beautiful, glass-enclosed patio that borders the restaurant's garden. We went back to Osteria a second time and requested to sit in this area again.

Sambuca. A classic way to end a meal.

Pistachio gelato. My happy ending.

A month ago today...

2008-11-11T17:04:00.022-05:00

my best friend got married. I was so happy to be a part of her wedding to Michael. I've seen about 20,375 photos from the wedding but I never get tired of seeing more! It was hard to narrow them down, but I posted just a few of my favorite photos and moments from that wonderful day, 10.11.08.

The bride's bouquet on the left. Mine on the right.

Juliet, the flower girl.

The bridesmaids and the bride.

The happy couple!

Dancing the night away (yes, that's my momma!)

I truly believe it's all in the details, and Jack did a great job on all of them. From top left: the bride's shoes, her necklace, her bejeweled hair pin, flasks for the bride and bridesmaids that I had designed and made especially for us (thanks to Haley of all things grow!), the garter, the cake! Click image to view larger.

Happy one month anniversary to Jaclyn and Michael!

การชอปปิง

2008-11-11T16:25:00.004-05:00

I hope the title of this post isn't something awful. I googled "shopping" in "Thai" and that's what I got.

I think I'm already driving Mary crazy with my shopping requests for when my sister and I go to visit in December.

My co-workers brought back this amazing bag and pair of pants that are 100% embroidered and 200% awesome. I hope to be able to find cool, authentic stuff like this while I'm there.

Less than a month to go!

a better end

2008-11-10T17:54:00.007-05:00

In a perfect world. I'd have enough time during the work day to check out all my favorite blogs. Today I barely had time to check the d*s archives for a teapot guide. Then at 5:32 when I could no longer stand the spreadsheet I was updating, I popped in to decor8 to see what's new. While linking around, I checked out a feature Holly (of decor8) did over on creature comforts.

My whole point is that I found these images of Audrey Tautou on an inspiration board from Holly. She's like the French Rachel Bilson (my first love, well, after chocolate and Rerun and...). These images from the film Liebe um jeden Preis were just what I needed to pull me out of my hag day*. I'm suddenly tempted to cut my hair off or get a body wave..

*hag day - a day where you look and feel like a hag.

alice?

2008-10-30T17:45:00.008-04:00

These photos have been on my computer under 'wow' since, um, 2006? It's about time they see the light of day. The only problem is that I can't recall where I originally saw them. My only guess is Alice McCall, whose designs still inspire and 'wow' me to this day.

click image to view larger

Stop what you're doing

2008-10-30T16:29:00.006-04:00

and please go to Yearbook Yourself right now. This was the fastest fun I've had all day! Less than 3 minutes and I was sent hurtling into the past with totally dated hair-dos. So sexy.

1966

1976

1994

knock 'em down

2008-10-27T17:07:00.010-04:00

Here we go again with the little magazine tabs, but this month it's Domino that's got me stuck on lovelies like these knife boxes from vivaterra.com. I love the large one (if in white).

Other highlights from the November issue include:

a wonderful website called laviva home. The site features curated online trunk shows. Laura, the curator, collects and sells pieces from around the world. The above suzani is one of the few that's not already sold out!

..and even the WAY pre-planner in me got a kick out of these baby items. Left: "star egg" ceramic night-light from giggle.com. Right: I couldn't resist this elephant hamper from homedecorators.com.

home swedish honeycomb

2008-10-27T12:13:00.003-04:00

I get a ton of daily/weekly/monthly email updates from favorite blogs and websites. Some can be repetitive or dull, but I always look forward to the emails from Three Potato Four. This week, their newest crop includes the beautiful birch and rosewood wine rack above. It's a vintage item and I have no idea how many they actually have. I'm so tempted to just get it, but I'm going to show restraint. After all, the holidays are coming. At least drooling is free..

dream girl

2008-10-17T13:30:00.011-04:00

Dream girl is right. I love shopbop. It's no secret. They sent the above image linked to a pre-sorted bohemian assortment on the site. Here are just a few of the boho beauties I'm pining after..

Editor's pick and I totally see why. Free People tunic. "Happy long dress"? Yes. Another awesome Daughters's style. This one LaROKs my world. Last but not least, this beauty from Larsen Gray. click on any image to view larger.

6 degrees..

2008-10-08T17:37:00.008-04:00

Thanks to the internet age, nobody is more than 6 degrees away from what they want to buy (well, depending on the size of their wallet). I'll prove it..
1) I went to Sibyl's a few weeks ago for a girl's afternoon in. A hurricane blew through town and we stayed in, watching movies and eating her delicious homemade meatball subs. On a break from TV watching, I looked at her incredible clipping file on everything from fashion to home furnishings. The above photo of Rachel Bilson featured the most perfect "going out" outfit I'd ever seen so I borrowed it, scanned it, and posted it here.
2) Not content to just stare at a magazine clipping, I went online to try to find out exactly what she was wearing. Enter shopstyle.com. They had an image of the outfit and also listed articles for purchase next to it so gals like me could just click and buy...
3) Which I did in the case of the Chaiken black stretch cotton Tuxedo jacket (now sold out!). I heart bluefly.
4) In an effort to NOT spend my life's savings (and then some) on a Herve Leger bandage dress, I looked around some more on those internets and fell in love with this slip from my all time favorite shop.
See? I did it in 4.

+

summer's best

2008-09-18T16:10:00.006-04:00

With fall beginning next week, I wanted to round up some of my favorite images from summer. It's my favorite season and I have no shortage of awesome memories from this one.

Lana making cotton candy at Bryana's carnival birthday party.

Yummy home-made candied apples.
Bryana's cowgirl boot planter.

..a storm in rural Maryland.

detox

2008-09-16T17:59:00.005-04:00

My friendly seat mate at work suggested that I might have a shopping problem. Maybe it's the daily delivery of online purchases? Maybe she's paranoid? Jealous?
Anyway, it shook me up a little; enough that I decided to not buy anything for a week. Of course, on the first day of my detox, I received an email from La Garconne. They just wanted to let me know that they'd curated the perfect fall outfit for me and that, for a mere $1500-ish, I could be fabulously dressed for one day.
Suddenly my palms are too wet to type..what are the symptoms of withdrawal again?

the right to register

2008-09-03T15:48:00.011-04:00

..no, not to vote, but I'm glad I have that right.
Leave it to creative genius Darren Star to bring single's rights to the forefront. I'm referring to Sex and the City season 6 episode 9 entitled "A Woman's Right to Shoes." IMDB does a great recap but I'm referencing the point that single gals don't usually receive gifts after graduation (compared to couples getting married or expecting, etc).

Now, I use this blog to remind myself of great designs I've seen or products I want to try, but it's also a shopping list of sorts. So, in the spirit of registering, this post encompasses some of the things I'd register for, if only I could.

Mud Australia is a porcelain manufacturer based in Sydney. In their own words: "As a small business we strongly believe in the global values of craft, community and sustainability. We actively build relationships with..the people who buy, use and love our product." I love Mud and all they make and do but I'm particularly keen on the pebble bowl; it's convenient shape, size, and composition allow you to take it from oven to table..

I do have a soft spot for tabletop (and it fits well with the registry theme) so I had to include the line "canvas" that I recently saw at NYIGF. The product assortment is impeccable and ranges from tabletop to textiles. The entire assortment is skillfully designed and beautifully executed but the catalog is also breathtaking, as I assume the website will be ('site coming soon'). I wish their catalog stylist, Hilary Robertson, and photographer, Ditte Isager, would style and photograph my life.

This is by no means the end to my registry but I had to pause (it's quitting time soon) with the shoe that started it all. Manolo Blahnik's 'Sedaraby' whose image I could only find here.

sexy as sh*t

2008-08-29T11:11:00.004-04:00

Few things are sexier than skateboarders. And I don't mean the 14-year-old kind. I mean the slightly dirty, effortlessly stylish and really talented ones who are grown-ups, too.
While there are tons of sexy skateboarding icons (Ryan Sheckler's over 18, right?), there's nothing hotter than that Eames-inspired fox up top. Some geniuses over at Skate Study House decided to take two of the sexiest things in the world and mash them together. Skateboarding + mid-century modern furniture = HOT. They don't call that chair "The God father" for nothing.

you (well, I) can buy happiness

2008-08-28T13:27:00.004-04:00

Case in point: I bought this little "Lila" print (by Melissa Moss) at Art Star and have been so happy as a result. Any time I need a lift, I just look at those little peeps in the tangles of strange botanicals and I somehow feel, even if just a little bit, better.

summer extender shopping list

2008-08-28T10:06:00.005-04:00

Thanks again to Vital Juice Daily for opening my eyes to this awesome product. I don't like having a lot of stuff around so if there's a product out there that can handle multiple responsibilities, that's the product for me. Enter California Baby Calendula Cream. It offers deep hydration for baby and grown ups as well as relief from eczema and other skin irritations and helps heal cuts and scrapes.

And further multi-taskers are sitting around the kitchen like buttermilk and organic apple cider. Both are ingredients recommended to help soften skin for at-home mani/pedis. Thanks again VJD!

arctic

2008-08-14T17:31:00.003-04:00

That's where I work. In the arctic. No matter what the external temperature, it's -27 at my desk. I even have a little heater that I got for $10 a couple years ago that quit because it's so cold.
So, I was looking online for some warm and fuzzy shoes and I found these fluffy dreamers. I'm so obsessed with them and so sad because they are out of stock at Free People. I even called like a psycho to find out if they are taking back orders (which would indicate that more stock is on the way) but NO! they are not.
There is a brown pair available in September so I will def go get those but what will I do without my gray lovers? I'll be cold; that much is certain.

mini apparel round up

2008-08-05T11:44:00.006-04:00

Summer's not over yet but I'll need until next year to save up the cash to throw down on this amazing Fabina Bikini Top by Araks Swim. I read about it over on Lucky's Shop Girl blog.

I've also been looking around online and in magazines for lingerie for my BFF's bachelorette party but I can never help but search for myself as well. July's intimates supplement for WWD was full of amazing lingerie like this ostrich feather slip from Your Slip is Showing.

wax that

2008-08-04T17:49:00.005-04:00

I am beginning with a digression: That Nick Olsen, my internet muse of about 17 minutes, is a genius. I've been glued to his Deal Hunter blog on Domino's site for, well, the past 17 minutes.) The stuff above is some wax developed by researchers at the British Museum to restore pretty much any material. I'm thinking I'll need some for the day when I'm rid of the piano and can spruce up the art deco dresser mom got me for my birthday. Note to self: buy it at restorationproduct.com

cake!

2008-08-04T16:27:00.007-04:00

Maid of honor duties, in the traditional sense, aren't inherently thrilling or challenging. However, in the right hands, they can inspire wonderful outcomes. This weekend, my BFF (bride #3 of 2008) asked me to help her look for cake stands for her wedding cake. The need arose when she showed me a photo of the cake style she wants for her wedding. The cake is generally pretty simple but was photographed on a beautiful cake stand which totally enhanced the confection. I asked if she was going to do a cake stand to which she replied, "oh, I hadn't thought of that."
Enter maid of honor non-traditional duty #1 - look online, be inspired, and help BFF find glorious cake stand. I'm stoked!
Today was day 1 of searching the internet and I happily stumbled upon this image in a post on My Shoestring Life. The author posted this image on June 1, 2007 but it's timeless. Too bad it's an advertisement for the cakes, not the cake stands, but it's the best inspiration image I've seen so far.

Below are some initial contenders:An elegant and simple white number from Chef's Catalog

this is a regurgitation if there ever was one..image from eco*chic weddings who blogged about look in the attic who discovered it from Nick Olsen (via Domino Magazine).

As long as I'm dreaming..

2008-08-01T14:14:00.006-04:00

.. I'll be doing it in this bed. I've seen this twice in magazines and I'm fairly certain I saw it at Blu Home(?) in Baltimore. I'm so into everything about this bed and all the things I see myself doing, and not doing in it. It's made from Peroba and harvested Mahogany and comes in Ebony or Walnut finish. I'll take a King in Walnut, please.

Sigh.

pilgrims and the amish

2008-08-01T14:10:00.004-04:00

My previous post shouts praises to the Domino staff for rounding up loads of my new favorite things. Kudos to Lucky in this post for opening my eyes to the designs of Corey Lynn Calter. Check out this dress!

purple tabs

2008-08-01T13:16:00.011-04:00

Magazine subscriptions are a vice of sorts for me. They are so wasteful and indulgent but I can't get them out of my life entirely. So, I've trimmed back to just Domino, Lucky, and Martha Stewart Living.
On top of whatever guilt and pleasure I get from my mags, I pile on an endless wish list of new products and items that I MUST have (or at least pine over for months) which brings along its own batch of emotions (guilt, greed, satisfaction, lust). Domino and Lucky already know this about me (and I would guess most of their subscribers) so they supply us addicts with cute little tabs that say "yes" or "maybe" and "decorate" or "garden" or "gift" (as if any of us are thinking about buying things for anyone but ourselves!) so we can flag our newest obsessions.
My current issue of Domino (August 2008) is covered in purple "decorate" tabs. I'll attempt to round up all the items I'm currently salivating over. The first is above; introducing #1 on Domino's list of "10 totally affordable new design icons", the porcelain hole jug from Global Table. It's only $24 for the 10" size (or $18 with a Domino discount)!
I don't iron. period. now steaming on the other hand..

basket at Maison Midi

I used to own this lamp (or its inspirational vintage cousin). I bought it for $10 at a thrift store. And as these things go, my robin's egg lamp base, er, hatched (or someone stumbled into it in a drunken state and turned it into scrambled eggs). Then Domino finds its twin at JC Penney?! It's true (and it's on sale).

I need somewhere to go!

2008-07-29T15:44:00.006-04:00

..so I can have an excuse to buy all of these dresses!!!!

cowgirl carnival

2008-07-15T17:49:00.007-04:00

At work, we like to throw themed birthday parties. My co-workers surprised me with a "mini" party (see "mini me") because I like anything tiny. For our Bry, we threw a cowgirl carnival-themed party. Cupcakes above made by Lana. Amazing, aren't they?!

Carnival goodies.

Bry eats her ice cream cone cupcake.

Happy birthday, Bryana!

food roundup

2008-07-07T14:02:00.015-04:00

It's been a while since I added pics of dinners to the blog so here's a roundup of special highlights from the past 5 months. There have been many more memorable meals than pictured, but here are a few to get the tummies growling.

Blood orange margaritas and queso fundido con carne from El Vez.

Fish tacos with cilantro-corn, homemade tortillas, basmati rice, salsa and limes.

A parade of chile rellenos.

Beef with red wine reduction and grilled asparagus.

Chilled butternut squash soup topped with cheddar popped-corn and fried nuggets of (something). The salad was the real hero of this meal and included slivered apple with fruit vinaigrette. In the background, toasted crostini served with homemade herbed oil.

san fran 'brisk' o

2008-06-30T17:48:00.008-04:00

"The coldest winter I ever spend was a summer in San Francisco." - a quote rumored to be asserted by Mark Twain. No matter the author, the message is true. I traveled to San Fran for work in early June and, despite the weather, had a wonderful time. It was almost like a vacation. I took the usual touristy photos when I could (I had to include the Chinatown shot above), but the ones below were of some special things I was lucky enough to enjoy.

A chocolate wave (also served with warm bread, sea salt and olive oil) from Laiola.

Purple peppers (I'd never seen them before!) at the Ferry Plaza Farmer's Market.

Cocktails and the beautiful courtyard at Le Colonial.

..in a month

2008-06-30T17:17:00.017-04:00

In an attempt to explain my lack of posting over the past month (and 9 days), I'm including photos of the events that have kept me busy.

Sweets and savories courtesy of Mombee Linda for Em's shower.

Amy cutting the cake at her wedding shower. In lieu of cake at the wedding, the guests will be served pie!

A beautiful bouquet at Amy's shower made of single flowers that each guest brought to represent her.

A few gorgeous location shots of Em's wedding site: The Waverly Mansion in Ellicott City, MD.

My beautiful bouquet for Em's wedding.

The wedding 'cakes' at Em's. Delicious white and dark chocolate cake with rich buttercream icing and a candy daisy!

Happy couple #1: Mr and Mrs Aguilar!

status rising

2008-05-21T17:21:00.005-04:00

At this stage in my life, I still get a lot of joy out of "things." Sometimes I feel a little shallow about it, but my feelings about this particular purchase are deservedly not shallow. The ladies at Rising Tide Fair Trade give their customers (like me!) a lot more with every purchase. Buying a bag from RTFT means that you, the customer, have helped change society. Each bag is "one of a kind and is made using recycled and cruelty-free textiles, while ensuring a fair wage and a people-friendly production process."

If there's a product that's beautiful AND let's everyone involved make a positive impact, I'm IN! I salute the RTFT ladies and look forward to seeing what else they will offer.

This is a gorgeous shot on the home page showing a pile of weekender bags. It's summer and that means weekend trips...

eat your facial

2008-05-09T10:35:00.006-04:00

What do papaya, chocolate, and apple pie have in common? Other than the fact that I want to eat all of them, not a whole lot- until I read this Web MD article featured in today's Vital Juice Daily news email. Web MD scored some awesome at-home treatments from the nation's top spas. Here are just a few:

Papaya Rejuvenation Home Spa Skin Refresher:
Exfoliate your skin gently with natural papaya enzymes, and leave the house with a gentle glow.
Wash face thoroughly.
Bring large pot of water to a boil.
While water is heating, mash 1/2 of a papaya into a paste.
Move pot to table and place face over steam, holding a bath towel over your head. Adjust to be sure skin is at a comfortable temperature.
Steam face for 5-8 minutes.
Apply papaya mixture, carefully avoiding the eye area.
Lie down and relax for 5-10 minutes.
When you feel fully rejuvenated, rinse your face and apply moisturizer for a radiant complexion.
* Courtesy of Nob Hill Spa, San Francisco.

All-Natural Chocolate Facial Mask:This decadent facial mask, ideal for normal skin, will leave your face smooth, soft, and silky. The cream and honey add moisture, and the oatmeal sloughs dead skills, perfect for smelling romantic and deliciously edible. Enjoy!
1/3 cup cocoa
3 tablespoons heavy cream
2 teaspoons cottage cheese
1/4 cup honey
3 teaspoons oatmeal powder
Mix all ingredients together and smooth onto face. Relax for 10 minutes; then rinse with warm water.
* Courtesy of Bliss Spa, New York City

Apple Pie Spa Treatment Skin Polish:Apples are notorious for their nutritional benefits; they’re 85% water and high in potassium and vitamins A and C. Perhaps even more beneficial is the malic acid, an exfoliating enzyme in apples that is useful for removing dead skin cells and surface dirt.
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh apple puree or apple sauce
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
Mix all ingredients, stirring well. In the bath or shower, apply scrub to skin in a circular motion, using a washcloth, bath gloves, or a loofah sponge. Pay special attention to rough spots like elbows, heels, and knees. Rinse well, and follow with a rich body lotion.
Note: If using on the face, omit granulated sugar. Brown sugar, because it dissolves gently, is a more appropriate choice for the delicate skin of the face.
* Courtesy of The Bachelor Gulch Spa at The Ritz-Carlton

click here for the full article; all images from corbis

beans on the brain again

2008-04-25T16:47:00.007-04:00

In May's Domino Magazine, they featured this j'adorable baby sling. It prompted me to ask a co-worker's wife's opinion about slings vs. strollers and an interesting (and hilarious) conversation ensued. My thoughts on the matter are "it's cute, I'm sold."

It's available at Serena and Lily in the above blue and the colors below:

beans and melamine

2008-04-23T16:06:00.010-04:00

A friend and co-worker announced in October that she was having a little bean! Since then, I can't help but search online for gifts to buy for her and the little one.
Of course, she's not just any mom-to-be and won't fall prey to the usual pink and blue distractions. She has a strong sense of style and I respect that she's trying to maintain it. That's why I was so excited when I found this kiddie food set on bongenre.
The rest of the site features gorgeous, colorful melamine plates (and plate sets).

Finnish already

2008-04-15T17:40:00.007-04:00

In the March UK edition of Elle Decoration, they interview Harri Koskinen, a finnish designer. The image above is from his Oma line for Arabia Finland. If everything in the world could be white and wood...

Harri's work reminds me of my other Finnish lover, Tonfisk. I first saw the warm range while at the Ambiente show in Frankfurt last year.

I've said it before, but....drool...........

seriously.

ring a ding

2008-04-03T10:43:00.001-04:00

This time it's Daily Candy to whom I owe thanks. In today's Daily Candy Everywhere weekend guide email, they feature the work of

VeraMeat. Where am I going in a T-Rex-eating-fried-chicken-ring? Everywhere.

Other internet stalkings brought me to the website of Di Mainstone. I think I should've probably known who she was before I found her website, but I'm well schooled now. Her site, and story, are totally awesome.

two things

2008-04-02T16:40:00.003-04:00

I needed a little 4:30 distraction so I looked where I always look: design*sponge. As usual, the posts (that I haven't kept up with at all for the past month) were inspirational, beautiful; in essence - everything I needed. The image above is actually borrowed from Homebug and instantly got me thinking about all the projects I need to start. There are three bedrooms in the house and the third is just a disaster. It's the only room I haven't really touched since moving in (except pulling up the purple shag).

I then saw this gorgeous print by Rachell Sumpter and I was clicking my way through to purchase before I was over the initial shock of it's beauty. It's been a while since an image has really grabbed me and I can't wait to put this up on the wall at home - maybe in the new white room...

M I Style

2008-03-14T13:12:00.000-04:00

I drove to Grasshopper the same day Daily Candy mentioned Purlieu, the brand behind this awesome tee. I love the neon colors and bold graphics. I haven't worn anything quite as bold as this yet, but I'm drawn to these sorts of graphics and prints more and more. Is it my unending love for MIA? Do I wish it was 1983 again?

Whatever the reason, I really want everything from Purlieu and this Jets swimsuit. (thanks again Daily Candy)
Image from Catroina Mackechnie (you can also buy the suit here)

Dreamy Pepper Mill

2008-03-13T13:07:00.002-04:00

There it is. The pepper mill of my dreams.
I first saw it a few years ago when Everyday Italian host Giada de Laurentiis used it on her show. If it wasn't this exact mill, it's close enough. I googled it to no avail but then, at a trade show, I spotted it in a vendor's booth. If I had the foresight at the time to take a card, I promptly lost it and was again at a loss for how to locate my dreamy pepper mill. Time passed, I forgot about it, and it recently worked it way back onto my wish list. "Modern pepper mill" was the magical phrase that yielded results from my latest google search and I found it on Moss's website. I remember it being pricey (slightly over $200) but at this point I don't care.
I'm not the only one who pines over GDL's set and everything in it. While googling, I found Too Many Chefs chatting away about her china, cutting boards, and more.

As a side note, I tried to find a photo of GDL that excluded her cleavage. As you can see, I failed.

Chicago!

2008-03-10T17:09:00.001-04:00

One week from today I will be in Chicago again. Nothing can top the trip I took for work last year. It was an unseasonably warm weekend in February, (seriously, it was in the upper sixties) I went to wonderful shops and ate the best food ever. There were several food highlights from the flights of wine and cheese I devoured at Bin 36 to the delicious Italian salad I ate at a restaurant in the Wicker Park section. But, by far, the best thing I ate was an oatmeal (yes, oatmeal) smoothie at Irazu. I've always loved oatmeal, but the super-flavored, extra-sweet instant kind. I never really thought I actually liked the taste of oatmeal itself until I had the smoothie. ohmygoditwasthebestsmoothieiveeverhad.

As a side note, the image attached is from a random google search of smoothie images. It's from a website called My Recipes.com. I think I might just make this Vanilla Honey-Nut smoothie this week to hold me over until I meet my oatmeal lover again.

bazaar weekend

2008-03-07T16:53:00.003-05:00

This week seemed really long. I feel like I accomplished a lot at work and this is my reward...drooling over blogs on a Friday afternoon.
decor8 posted about this amazing book, Bazaar Style. My entire house looks like this in my head.

Maybe I'll redecorate the middle room upstairs. I should say decorate because the only items in the room are a crewel rug from Anthropologie and a white Ikea dresser that I've had since college. Whatever I end up doing, this post makes me feel as if the weekend is already here and full of possibilities.

drool....

seriously!

All images from decor8

iceland and beyond

2008-03-06T17:14:00.002-05:00

My friend Lana returned from a trip to Iceland. I was really excited just to have her back around and what's more - she brought me a lovely gift. The ring above has a tiny clay rose inside crochet petals all mounted on a silver flower frame. I am so in love with it.

The images below are of other random things that distracted me today. I really want those dried apple slices (certified from the Pacific Northwest!)...

Am I influential enough to start a US movement of eating soft-boiled eggs? If so, my first egg cup has to be this one from Reikokaneko in the UK.

feeling filmy

2008-03-05T17:50:00.002-05:00

A tour around the web for 'decorative glass film' can leave you feeling a little, well, filmy. The kitchen is basically done (see 'Benjamin less is Moore' post) but my overall hatred for window treatments has left us still looking very unfinished. We bought some solid "frost" window film from Lowes the other weekend and applied it to the panes in the back door but I want something a little nicer for the large side windows. I found this beautiful option on pure modern.com but it will be a while before I can drop $75 on aesthetics and privacy. Until then I'll pretend that this is a window in my kitchen and be happy with that!

sister's kicks

2008-03-03T11:07:00.000-05:00

Not since a friend showed me the AF1s below back in June of '07 have I been so enamored with a pair of sneakers. In fact, I was so into the kicks below that I actually bought them at Sportie LA during a work trip last year.
Then, my talented sister sent me an email from Nike.com where she custom-designed some Nike Air Max 90 iDs. I love the customization factor and she really picked some dope colors.

AF1 photos from highsnobiety.com

playing chicken

2008-02-27T13:44:00.001-05:00

A friend of mine has a small farm in South Jersey. They raise black angus cows and chickens and maybe a few other animals grunt and poop there, too. On my way home from a visit last summer, I was able to snag a dozen fresh eggs. Since that day, and the subsequent days when I enjoyed the delicious eggies, I've been dreaming of having some city chicks of my own.

I've run the idea by some who are very supportive. A co-worker and fellow chicken enthusiast Haley (of 'all things grow' fame) forwarded me a link to Omlet UK. These people brought me one step closer to keeping my own chickens. Except that I don't live in the UK.

To quote from their site:

"We designed the eglu for the town garden, the first time chicken owner, the family and the eco-savvy individual. "

Below is a photo of the eglu and the back yard (and family) I've been imagining! Um, and it's called an Eglu - does it GET any CUTER?!

Of course there are some nay-sayers, too. One friend cautioned me that with chickens come rats and, without any research of my own to confirm or deny the accusation, I was ready to pack up the roost and just get some eggs at Acme. I'm sure there are some health concerns and regulations, possibly even restrictions, since I am an urban-dweller. But since I'm just chicken dreaming, I'll chicken ignore the hard facts until I decide to make it a chicken reality.

If you're dreaming of raising your own feathery flock and happen to live in Alabama (?), this article could help you out: http://www.al.com/specialreport/mobileregister/?chickens.html (top image courtesy of http://www.al.com/)

kaboodle

2008-02-18T17:41:00.002-05:00

Yeah, so I'm the 800th person to blog aobut this poster but I fell in love as soon as I saw it in a home featured in Domino Magazine. I threw it on my kaboodle when I made my Christmas list and wished upon a star - and my sister got it for me for my birthday! I was so excited that I framed it the same day with a humongous frame from Ikea.

Tks Nupes!

she bangs

2008-02-14T16:03:00.001-05:00

There she is, so lovely. My Miss Moss. I just adore her. So yesterday when my mom took me to visit my stylist for a birthday trim, I decided to go for it - and get bangs!
The original inspiration was this Kate Moss photo where her hair looks super stylish and approachable all at once. Then for a while I
thought I'd be content with a wig like the one below. Guess not (though I still want the wig).

Update 2/25: Um, please check out my girl crush. The super hot hottie Rachel Bilson. She debuted her bangs last week and Perez posted this image of her on his blog. I wonder if she's stalking me?

mini me

2008-02-14T10:39:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was my birthday and Lana, a good friend and co-worker, decided to throw me a party themed with small things. All the food served was teeny tiny. My friend Alex wins the award for creativity - just look at those mini hamburgers!

It might have been a small theme but had big impact!

Tks LB

2008-02-01T16:08:00.000-05:00

It was pouring this morning. And I had an 8 AM dentist appointment. Why do I do this to myself?

Actually, I love the dentist. I have a freakish obsession with my teeth and all things tooth-y. A friend even got me a necklace with a golden tooth charm for Christmas (although I think it was for the ghetto factor and not so much my dental hygiene).

So, I thought this morning would suck because the dentist is in Center City and there's never any parking. But I found a spot less than a block from the office and at a broken meter! Free parking!!!!!! My appointment took aproximately 18 seconds and I even had time to stop by Whole Foods on my way to work.

I remembered reading about a sugar substitute (dentist: "sugar = bad") called agave nectar on a friend's blog and I snagged some at the store. I can't wait to try it in some tea tonight. And after I have the tea I will promptly brush my teeth.

baggu

2008-01-24T10:11:00.001-05:00

While everyone out there is selling eco-friendly, reusable bags (even target has some!), I've been content with my Whole Foods tote for some
time. Then my BFF told me about baggu and I just bought 6 of them! I like Baggu because they come in a teensy pouch so you can stash them everywhere. Plus, the color range is beautiful - saffron and cobalt are in my assortment! I can't wait to start using them, oh yeah, and helping the environment.

Neither the Target nor Whole Foods bags are available online, but here are a few that are:

* (added 1/29)

My friend Haley is on the eco wagon and her bags are absolutely gorgeous. Check here for more info and you can buy them here at her etsy shop!

the bag above is available at: algstore.com. I love eco humor.

trixie delicious

2008-01-15T17:29:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, my boss emailed me a link to this plate...which I bought instantly! In an odd twist of fate, February's Elle Decoration (UK edition) landed on my desk today (just one of the many perks of my job!) and has a 'Green House' spread that includes the work of Trixie Delicious - the very same artist who made my slut plate. The magazine features her 'green rules' and 'treehugger' plates as well as a deadly sins set of 7, below.

She also does custom work and I've already thought of loads of ideas for gifts! Is it too soon to Christmas shop?

some love

2008-01-09T17:12:00.000-05:00

Needing a little 5 PM inspiration, I hopped over to design*sponge to see what's cooking. A post from yesterday really caught my eye and
made me think of my pretend wedding again. (you'd think I'm obsessed with weddings but I tell you - I'm not! the internet is just a very sneaky place to stash things I like should the day ever come. and while I'm digressing I may as well really digress. of my 5 girlfriends, a third one told me yesterday that she's planning to get married in '08. and joy of joys, she's planning the sort of affair that I envision for myself: small, intimate, at a restaurant so no catering/hotel/tastings/cake/flowers/color scheme. oh, and no pre-wedding parties. I heart that girl. she is for sure invited to my pretend wedding.) I love Jennifer Perman's etsy site, particularly the set of 6 Love cards above. It got me thinking about my fake invitations...

And while on etsy, I started to search for products involving "love" and was so pleased with the results. I'm not into Valentine's Day (which most of these paper goods are perfect for!) but I am into love. So here are some images that I love.

This card is called 'Love Blooms' by Laurie Nadeau. Click here for her etsy site.

Above is a hand-printed notecard from bluesnailpapers.

happy new lists

2008-01-02T13:40:00.001-05:00

I'm a list-maker and 2008 will be no exception. I have a list of movies to watch, restaurants to try, guests to invite to my wedding, baby names, etc (all in my moleskine - thanks Christy!).

While I currently carry a list of the top-rated foods from Fitness Magazine, this list from Vital Juice Daily will be a great addition. It's geared for the fall/winter season, helps you out at the grocery store, and still fits in a handbag. Click here to get your own!

dismantle

2007-12-31T10:36:00.001-05:00

The last day of 2007 has finally come. We're going to take down the tree and holiday decorations today - the earliest we've ever done it. The tree has been up since early November, though :)

This is our holiday mantle and a little reminder of the loveliness of the season.

benjamin less is moore

2007-12-31T10:25:00.001-05:00

Thanks to my mother, painting the kitchen yesterday was a breeze. She told me to buy Benjamin Moore paint and it made all the difference. The renovation has taken since April and we're still missing a spice cabinet and the floor needs to be tiled, but something about a fresh coat of paint makes it feel done.