Things I Love
1.Line Rider 2.Volkswagen Bug Convertible 3.Elizabeth Peyton 4.Photobooths 5.Catcher in the Rye 6.Swedish Bicycles 7.American Tourister Suitcases 8.Mrs. Meyers Geranium Cleaner 9.Milk Glass Cake Pedestals 10.Raffaello Candy 11.Barcelona Chair 12.A is for Apple 13.Izzes 14.McSweeney's 15.Cassandra Barney 16.Zumreed Headphones 17.Pare Umbrellas 18.Dualit Toasters
Party How-To
I've been getting requests for instructions on how I did stuff at the church party. Here goes:
1. Grass Pots- Buy miniature clay pots from Home Depot (about 30 cents each). Turn them upside down on newspaper and spray paint them. Turn them right side up and spray paint the rim. Buy wheat grass seed from a health food store. (I bought mine in the bulk foods section at Whole Foods. They are called "red wheat berries" or something like that. The wheat costs about 40 cents a pound. Fill the clay pot almost full of soil but leave a quarter inch empty. Line the top of the soil with lots of wheat grass seeds (pack them tightly.) Then cover the seeds with a thin layer of topsoil. Don't pack it down tight. Water them every morning and give them sun. You'll have full pots of grass in a week. (One more thing, if you are doing a lot, get a couple nursery trays for transport. It makes things so much easier.)
2. Pom Poms- I buy tissue paper from Paper Mart. (I love these guys. I ordered it Wednesday night and it arrived Friday morning.) You need 8 pieces of tissue paper for each ball. The Martha Stewart directions ask for floral wire but plain old string works just fine. The secret to making them look good is to pull out each layer of tissue one-by-one in order. Don't "poof" them up until you are ready to hang them or they will look smooshed. All the directions are right here.
3. Flags- This idea I sort of came up with on my own. I love label paper and I'm always messing around with it on projects. I designed the little flags on Adobe Illustrator printed them out on label paper then peeled off the back, wrapped it around a toothpick and cut it into the shape of a flag. You can get label paper from any office supply store.
4. Tablecloths- We are lucky that last year there was a bit of a surplus in the budget so we invested in some table cloths. This makes a huge difference when working with a very tiny budget because as soon as you put the nice colored thick table cloths on...voila, the room is transformed. Whether you rent or buy, get table cloths that hit the ground! There was a question whether to buy neutral table cloths or colored. I think it is important to commit to color. It makes more of an impact which is important when you have a small budget. I chose red because It would go well with Christmas, Valentines, and Fourth of July. The only time of the year I was worried about was spring but we tied everything in with some bright colors and a few pastels.
5. Drink Dispenser- I got this at Costco a few years ago. It is big and heavy and the nozzle doesn't work that well....BUT it is pretty. Mine was $30. I haven't seen them for that cheap but I blogged about a source here and Katie, a reader, told me they have them at Target right now.
1. Grass Pots- Buy miniature clay pots from Home Depot (about 30 cents each). Turn them upside down on newspaper and spray paint them. Turn them right side up and spray paint the rim. Buy wheat grass seed from a health food store. (I bought mine in the bulk foods section at Whole Foods. They are called "red wheat berries" or something like that. The wheat costs about 40 cents a pound. Fill the clay pot almost full of soil but leave a quarter inch empty. Line the top of the soil with lots of wheat grass seeds (pack them tightly.) Then cover the seeds with a thin layer of topsoil. Don't pack it down tight. Water them every morning and give them sun. You'll have full pots of grass in a week. (One more thing, if you are doing a lot, get a couple nursery trays for transport. It makes things so much easier.)
2. Pom Poms- I buy tissue paper from Paper Mart. (I love these guys. I ordered it Wednesday night and it arrived Friday morning.) You need 8 pieces of tissue paper for each ball. The Martha Stewart directions ask for floral wire but plain old string works just fine. The secret to making them look good is to pull out each layer of tissue one-by-one in order. Don't "poof" them up until you are ready to hang them or they will look smooshed. All the directions are right here.
3. Flags- This idea I sort of came up with on my own. I love label paper and I'm always messing around with it on projects. I designed the little flags on Adobe Illustrator printed them out on label paper then peeled off the back, wrapped it around a toothpick and cut it into the shape of a flag. You can get label paper from any office supply store.
4. Tablecloths- We are lucky that last year there was a bit of a surplus in the budget so we invested in some table cloths. This makes a huge difference when working with a very tiny budget because as soon as you put the nice colored thick table cloths on...voila, the room is transformed. Whether you rent or buy, get table cloths that hit the ground! There was a question whether to buy neutral table cloths or colored. I think it is important to commit to color. It makes more of an impact which is important when you have a small budget. I chose red because It would go well with Christmas, Valentines, and Fourth of July. The only time of the year I was worried about was spring but we tied everything in with some bright colors and a few pastels.
5. Drink Dispenser- I got this at Costco a few years ago. It is big and heavy and the nozzle doesn't work that well....BUT it is pretty. Mine was $30. I haven't seen them for that cheap but I blogged about a source here and Katie, a reader, told me they have them at Target right now.
Sofa King
Design Mom
My sister, Design Mom, was interviewed by this blog and I liked this part:
I think mothers in my generation are choosing motherhood. It's not the default path they would take -- women in America have all kinds of amazing opportunities outside of parenting. So, when they make the choice to become mothers, they want parenting to be a really quality experience -- especially knowing some of the other quality paths they've left behind. I love being a parent and I hope my posts help other mothers see how beautiful and enjoyable and fulfilling even the small tasks of parenting can be.
I think mothers in my generation are choosing motherhood. It's not the default path they would take -- women in America have all kinds of amazing opportunities outside of parenting. So, when they make the choice to become mothers, they want parenting to be a really quality experience -- especially knowing some of the other quality paths they've left behind. I love being a parent and I hope my posts help other mothers see how beautiful and enjoyable and fulfilling even the small tasks of parenting can be.
Flat in Paris
I was messing around on the internet when I found this article describing how a woman here in San Francisco bought this apartment in Paris for 130k in Montmare {you know, the same neighborhood Amelie lived.}. This was a few years ago before the Euro got strong. They used a rental agency and rent out the apartment most of the year which is a very good investment. Plus they own a place in Paris! Extended stays in Europe sounds really appealing to me. Immo Realty helps Americans buy apartments in Paris. I've almost got Paul convinced.
{I'm running errands today--I'll be back tomorrow.}
{I'm running errands today--I'll be back tomorrow.}
Williams Sonoma Kids
Williams Sonoma has expanded their party line to now include children's birthday parties. They have invitations and favors, very cute. You can also have them overnight this cupcake cake. {I blogged about this before but my favorite are still their tall candles.}
Urban Forest
It is official
San Francisco is the first US city to ban plastic bags. Unless you are a mom and pop shop. Then you can use all the plastic bags you want.
We have the Trader Joe cloth bags, but I always forget to take them to the store. Sigh. This is what I get for living amongst hippies. :)
image from SF Gate
We have the Trader Joe cloth bags, but I always forget to take them to the store. Sigh. This is what I get for living amongst hippies. :)
image from SF Gate
Wheat Grass
I've been mothering these little pots of grass for a week now. I am going to set one at each place setting for the church party tomorrow night. I started to get worried they weren't going to grow fast enough but this morning they were growing green and strong. The last few days I moved them into our living room because I was worried about how cold it was outside. Since then Paul has been referring to the living room as the lawn. Anyway, little pots of grass make me really happy.
{p.s.: my sister, Design Mom, taught me how to do this back in high school. See her post about it here.}
{p.s.: my sister, Design Mom, taught me how to do this back in high school. See her post about it here.}
Rembrandt Toothpaste
Rembrandt Toothpaste has rebranded their image and done a very beautiful job of it. I will buy almost anything if it is beautifully packaged.
Heritage 1981 Review
Ever since I blogged about Heritage 1981 people have been leaving me comments about it. {I come up high if you google it.} I was delighted to see they had a store locater up on their site and when I saw there was one an hour away in San Jose I recruited my friend Emily to take a field trip. Perhaps I had too high of expectations... But, I was not at all impressed. Imagine a better organized Forever 21 but with clothes that aren't very cute. It reminded me a little bit of American Eagle but with clothes that were boring. Also, the rumor of better quality clothing is a farce. The clothes are the same as Forever 21.
I know it is a new store so I'll give them a year to get it together. But right now I give it two thumbs down. You are better to go to Forever 21 where there are clothes up the wazoo and a ton of cute choices.
I know it is a new store so I'll give them a year to get it together. But right now I give it two thumbs down. You are better to go to Forever 21 where there are clothes up the wazoo and a ton of cute choices.
AREO
A lot people got candles from me for Christmas this year. Along with every candle I included one of these cute matchboxes. These matches are extra long so your fingers don't burn when you are lighting your candle. Besides being functional the boxes are so cute! I got mine from Anthropologie but thanks to Apartment Therapy SF I found a direct source. Here they are for half the price at Anthropologie. I like having these sitting around rather than a regular matchbox, so much prettier.
Affordable House of the Week
The affordable house of the week is in Salt Lake City. It has over 2000 square feet and has been updated nicely. 350K and it is yours!
Piperlime coupon
A lot of people emailed me asking about how I got a coupon to Piperlime. I'm not sure how I got the first one although I am on just about every mailing list out there. But recently I had to return a pair of shoes I bought because the leather on one of the shoes was discolored. So when I called to take care of the exchange the lady gave me another coupon. So of you are really wanting one I bet you could call Customer Care (1-877-PIPERLIME) and ask for one.
I love these heels, they remind me of the eighties. I would wear them with skinny jeans and a bright spring shirt.
I love these heels, they remind me of the eighties. I would wear them with skinny jeans and a bright spring shirt.
Fish Bag
I saw a girl with this bag last week and I liked it so much I stopped her to ask her where she bought it. I was so surprised when she replied "Gap." I couldn't find it online but I was in there shopping for Paul and I got a picture of it. It is $100 and part of their RED campaign. Isn't it cute?
Cupcakes with Flags
I made these cupcakes to promote the activity at church. I made the little flags and attached them to toothpicks. {Thanks Michelle for the picture.}
Upholstery Sale
Anthropologie is having a big upholstery sale where all their upholstered items are 25% off. If you are in the market...now is the time to buy.
Wallpapering your Fridge
Here is a brilliant article in Time Out New York on how to wallpaper your fridge. Nick Olsen {remember him here} is demonstrating. This is perfect for renters because apparently most of the rubber cement comes off by hand and the rest of it you can get with Goo Gone. This is so cool, I'm sitting here debating whether to do it. I have this awesome pineapple wallpaper leftover and I don't know what to do with it.
WWII Bag
I LOVE this bag to pieces. Here is the description on the Kate Spade website: during WW2, soldiers painted their bags so that they could be easily identified. a tribute to unwavering american spirit, the painted satchels have been replicated using distressed leather and aged hardware. each is hand-painted and uniquely authentic. we hope you enjoy this quiet salute.
If I had $400 to burn I would totally buy it. {I wonder if I could recreate something like this?}
Update: I just asked Paul and he said all we would need is a good canvas bag and we could gesso it and paint it! I feel a summer project coming on!}
If I had $400 to burn I would totally buy it. {I wonder if I could recreate something like this?}
Update: I just asked Paul and he said all we would need is a good canvas bag and we could gesso it and paint it! I feel a summer project coming on!}
Kris Shanks
Spring/Summer Picks for Paul
Bathroom Reno
I just got my new issue of Cottage Living in the mail this weekend. I loved these bathroom renovations. They are all different styles but they are all in good taste and fit with the style of the home's architecture. This magazine always gets me excited to renovate something. {p.s.: This whole issue is mostly about gardening. It is so inspiring!}
Basic Partyware
Since I like to play hostess I stock up on inexpensive serving pieces. Here are my favorite basics.
Tall glasses: these make any drink look elegant. (Don't forget the straws.)
Square White Plates: {only $2!} I only use paper plates if there are more than 25 people. These look so clean and modern. Serving Platters: I like square. Sign Holders: If I'm on top of things I like to put descriptions of what is being served near the food.
Tall glasses: these make any drink look elegant. (Don't forget the straws.)
Square White Plates: {only $2!} I only use paper plates if there are more than 25 people. These look so clean and modern. Serving Platters: I like square. Sign Holders: If I'm on top of things I like to put descriptions of what is being served near the food.
Happy Weekend
Here is a little peek at my yellow kitchen. I painted it that color last summer, I immediately did not like it but I haven't gotten around to painting it again. So I have a very yellow kitchen.
I'll be back to blogging like regular on Monday! Have a great weekend!
I'll be back to blogging like regular on Monday! Have a great weekend!
Magnet
So I bought this dress from Anthropologie about a month ago. It wasn't my favorite dress in the whole world but I had some store credit and it was cute enough and I liked that it had sleeves. Well, little did I know this dress was secretly emitting a signal saying, "please hit on me strange men." Because every time I wear this dress I get hit on, not just once, but several times a day. Seriously, it is out of control. If anyone is looking for a dress like that, here it is.
You would never know, it looks so innocent with it's little embroidered white flowers.
You would never know, it looks so innocent with it's little embroidered white flowers.
Good News for People Who Love Bad News
Two of my friends that I met since I moved to San Francisco both had life altering events this past week. I'm so excited!!! Emily I met last summer after I found her blog. She is so fantastic and now we are good friends. Azla I met almost two years ago when she was my manager at Pottery Barn. We soon figured out we had a lot in common including the same wedding dress. {She has excellent taste.} :)
Emily, if you haven't read on her blog already, is engaged! And look at that rock! One of the most beautiful rings I've ever seen.
Azla, just had a beautiful baby boy!
Emily, if you haven't read on her blog already, is engaged! And look at that rock! One of the most beautiful rings I've ever seen.
Azla, just had a beautiful baby boy!
Sketching Paul
At the party we made Paul sit for everyone while they sketched him.
Once everyone found out who the discerning judge was going to be stars and rainbows and pictures of Mickey Mouse appeared alongside Paul.
The three winners, handpicked by Ella won Paul Ferney oil paintings.
Once everyone found out who the discerning judge was going to be stars and rainbows and pictures of Mickey Mouse appeared alongside Paul.
The three winners, handpicked by Ella won Paul Ferney oil paintings.
New Clothes
Paul's wardrobe is in a desperate need of a tune up. Today I am going to buy a bunch of stuff for Paul and then tonight we will have a fit session and I'll return anything that doesn't work the next day. We have a process for buying clothes for Paul. It is described here is an old post "how to dress a man." As I'm looking through all these guys clothes online I got to say, I'm glad I'm a girl. Boy clothing seems so boring. There is only so much you can do with jeans, khakis, a few jackets, t shirts, and sweaters.
Green Grass
I love this pencil holder. Feels like grass is growing. It is functional, beautiful, and it doesn't feel contrived.
Fizz
Since we don't drink alcohol we have to serve something special to keep our guests entertained. Enter: gourmet soda. We keep everything in the fridge and then put it on ice right before the party begins.
Mini Creme Brulee
One of my party secrets is mini creme brulee. I prefer {like most people} something made from scratch. But since things can get hectic before a party I try to balance the things I serve 50 percent made from scratch/50 percent from a mix.
At Sur La Table they carry mini-ramekins {1.5 oz} for $1 each. {online they are $4!} I've collected them over the last two years and am now up to 40. Any thing I serve looks great in these mini dishes but my favorite and easiest dish is creme brulee. Here is the secret part: Williams Sonoma sells a creme brulee mix {can't find it online} that only requires you to heat up the mix and pour it into the ramekins. The whole process takes ten minutes and then you let them set for at least four hours. Then I carmelize them right before I serve them. It is always a hit and I make sure to serve them with mini tea spoons, perfect for cracking the surface.
At Sur La Table they carry mini-ramekins {1.5 oz} for $1 each. {online they are $4!} I've collected them over the last two years and am now up to 40. Any thing I serve looks great in these mini dishes but my favorite and easiest dish is creme brulee. Here is the secret part: Williams Sonoma sells a creme brulee mix {can't find it online} that only requires you to heat up the mix and pour it into the ramekins. The whole process takes ten minutes and then you let them set for at least four hours. Then I carmelize them right before I serve them. It is always a hit and I make sure to serve them with mini tea spoons, perfect for cracking the surface.
Party High
We had a small get together last night to celebrate Paul's birthday so I still am on a "party high." There is good food every where you look. The house is squeaky clean {besides a few party dishes.} There are fresh flowers. Ahh...I love a good party.
I had promised to share my plans for Paul's party before it happened but I think it is better I share them post-party because I can show pictures.
I had promised to share my plans for Paul's party before it happened but I think it is better I share them post-party because I can show pictures.
There Is Nothing Wrong in This Whole Wide World
I arrange my books by color. I tried it all sorts of other ways: by subject, by size, and biographical*. Nothing looked good, it just was sort of messy. These pictures are from an installation I went to back in 2004 at Adobe Bookshop. A guy rearranged the books by color and they stayed like that for a few weeks. The installation was called "There Is Nothing Wrong in This Whole Wide World."
*I stole that idea from High Fidelity
pics via Love Forever
*I stole that idea from High Fidelity
pics via Love Forever
Ben Taylor
Paul brought home a Ben Taylor cd last November. Ben is James Taylor's son. I guess he tried to be rebellious and play rocker music but no one really liked his music and then he put out an album that was sort of the style of James Taylor and now people are buying his record. It's pretty.
Moo
I just saw the Moo cards for the first time in person. They are so great! Basically you can get cards printed from your flickr stream and it is only $19.99 for 100 cards! The layout below is from Priya at Love made Visible. I need to get some photos together to make some calling cards. These are so great.
Kate Spade Mix
The new Kate Spade mix is a goodie. You can listen to it while you browse the internet. Thanks Kate!
What is Black and White and Red all over?
I was at Nordstrom last night and I fell in love with this shoe. $65 is a reasonable amount to pay for a well made shoe.
Happy St. Patrick's Day
Rebecca works for Bart and one of the perks of being her friend is occasionally a spot opens up on the Bartmobile. We were in the Chinese New Years parade in '05 and this year we got to be in the St. Patrick's Day parade. Being in a parade restores your faith in humanity. It is a bunch of happy people waving at each other. It was the perfect way to celebrate Paul's birthday.
p.s.: I'll be posting a little light this week.
p.s.: I'll be posting a little light this week.
Zumreed
I am the proud owner of a pair of Zumreed headphones. My friend Naomi is married to a DJ and they are always off to some exotic locale. Last week they went to Japan so I told her if she saw any of these headphones to pick me up a pair. Thanks Naomi!
pic via Fashion is Spinach
pic via Fashion is Spinach
Happy Birthday Paul
It is Paul's birthday tomorrow. I'm breaking my vow-of-silence for a minute so I can blog about him. Here are some things you might not know about Paul:
-He played varsity soccer.
-He had a full ride scholarship in college.
-His GPA in both High School and College are near perfect.
-He is very good at painting.
-He is very good at his graphic design job.
-He is the hardest worker I know.
-He never says anything mean about anyone.
-When no one is looking, he is still a very good person.
Happy Birthday Paul. I'm so glad you were born.
-He played varsity soccer.
-He had a full ride scholarship in college.
-His GPA in both High School and College are near perfect.
-He is very good at painting.
-He is very good at his graphic design job.
-He is the hardest worker I know.
-He never says anything mean about anyone.
-When no one is looking, he is still a very good person.
Happy Birthday Paul. I'm so glad you were born.
Hiatus
I'm taking a breather from blogging for a bit. I have a couple side projects that include the development of a line of cards, styling a photo shoot, and a few personal projects that I am trying to finish up. I'll be back in a few.
{Last night we were working late at the studio and we got a hankering for something sweet. So we went to Bob's Doughnuts and watched the old man make doughnuts in the wee hours of the morn'.}
{Last night we were working late at the studio and we got a hankering for something sweet. So we went to Bob's Doughnuts and watched the old man make doughnuts in the wee hours of the morn'.}
Oscar Dress Part Deux
Remember this one-of-akind Oscar de la Renta dress from last October? It has popped up in the designer's Fall 2006 collection. I guess it isn't so one-of-a-kind after all. Please, someone out there wear this to your wedding.
The Affordable House of the Week
If I had a full time job I would buy this puppy tomorrow. The Affordable House of the week is located in the Richmond district of San Francisco. $375K will buy you a large one bedroom apartment. And for only 50K more you can have your own 2 car garage!
Zoe Chicco
Such beautiful jewelry from Zoe Chicco. Those stacked rings with the diamonds are $195 a pop. Perfect for an anniversary or a special little occasion. Seriously, I love this stuff so much.
via Nicole Hill
via Nicole Hill
Honesty Stamps
These honesty stamps gave me a good chuckle. You can get them in all the following sayings:
1. I sincerely apologise for all the trouble I've caused.
2. All I ask for is one last chance.
3. In all my life I've never met anyone as beautiful as you.
4. I know in the past I've found it difficult to say these words but I LOVE YOU.
5. I swear on my mother's grave I'll never do that again.
6. What do you mean I'm always too busy?
7. You're right, the key to a strong relationship is communication.
1. I sincerely apologise for all the trouble I've caused.
2. All I ask for is one last chance.
3. In all my life I've never met anyone as beautiful as you.
4. I know in the past I've found it difficult to say these words but I LOVE YOU.
5. I swear on my mother's grave I'll never do that again.
6. What do you mean I'm always too busy?
7. You're right, the key to a strong relationship is communication.
Ferris Wheel Print
I finally got my C&P Letterpress printing about a month ago. Here is the first thing I printed. I am happy with how it came out.
Street Wars
I am so sad right now. Back in 2005 I signed up two hours too late for Street Wars. Street Wars is basically a giant well-organized water gun fight where you are given the a photo, name, address and address of employment of a person. You then have to find them and "kill them" or shoot them with a water gun. Meanwhile someone is stalking you. It lasts three weeks or as long as you stay "alive." So FUN!
I've checked back every so often to see if they were coming to San Francisco again. I just checked again only to find out they had come and gone this January. I just signed up for their email list so this won't happen again.
I've checked back every so often to see if they were coming to San Francisco again. I just checked again only to find out they had come and gone this January. I just signed up for their email list so this won't happen again.
Secret Slides
My good friend Paul {not the husband} was telling me about these secret slides here in the city. Apparently they are super fast and Paul himself was wounded when he slid down. We are totally going this week. I'll report back.
A horrible misunderstanding
About a month ago we realized Comcast and changed our "Comcastic introductory 6 month offer" of $50/month to $140/month. We called them and pretended that we wanted to cancel our service. We then waited patiently for them to call us back and give us a better offer {like they always do.} Well, they never called. And then they canceled our cable and asked us to return the tivo box. It was a well-laid plan gone so wrong. We still have high speed internet {I would rather cut off my arm than take that away.} But for the last month we haven't had TV. Paul wants to just call Comcast and sign up again but I want to wait a little bit and teach them a lesson. It's the principle of the matter.
We've managed to watch our few favorite shows on the computer but now we have to do things like talking to each other and reading books. :( We're just biding our time until we can call them up and ask for a "new introductory offer."
Post Script: I want to make it clear I am a firm believer in TV. When I meet someone new and they tell me they don't watch TV, I immediately like them a little bit less. :)
We've managed to watch our few favorite shows on the computer but now we have to do things like talking to each other and reading books. :( We're just biding our time until we can call them up and ask for a "new introductory offer."
Post Script: I want to make it clear I am a firm believer in TV. When I meet someone new and they tell me they don't watch TV, I immediately like them a little bit less. :)
100 Greatest Movies
Ali gave me the idea to watch all 100 movies on the AFI's list of 100 Greatest Movies. {Actually, I think I remember my brother Josh doing this too.} I wonder how long this will take?
Here are the first 15:
1.CITIZEN KANE (1941)
2.CASABLANCA (1942)
3.GODFATHER, THE (1972)
4.GONE WITH THE WIND (1939)
5.LAWRENCE OF ARABIA (1962)
6.WIZARD OF OZ, THE (1939)
7.GRADUATE, THE (1967)
8.ON THE WATERFRONT (1954)
9.SCHINDLER'S LIST (1993)
10.SINGIN' IN THE RAIN (1952)
11.IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946)
12.SUNSET BOULEVARD (1950)
13.BRIDGE ON THE RIVER KWAI, THE (1957)
14.SOME LIKE IT HOT (1959)
15.STAR WARS (1977)
Here are the first 15:
1.CITIZEN KANE (1941)
2.CASABLANCA (1942)
3.GODFATHER, THE (1972)
4.GONE WITH THE WIND (1939)
5.LAWRENCE OF ARABIA (1962)
6.WIZARD OF OZ, THE (1939)
7.GRADUATE, THE (1967)
8.ON THE WATERFRONT (1954)
9.SCHINDLER'S LIST (1993)
10.SINGIN' IN THE RAIN (1952)
11.IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946)
12.SUNSET BOULEVARD (1950)
13.BRIDGE ON THE RIVER KWAI, THE (1957)
14.SOME LIKE IT HOT (1959)
15.STAR WARS (1977)
Things to do this week
I've decided to add a new feature to my right hand column. One of my never-ending goals {it is literally always on my to-do-lists} is to research cool stuff to do in San Francisco. I'm always bummed when I find out one of my favorite bands or authors stopped by San Francisco and I either missed it or found out too late to get tickets. It only takes ten minutes to look over a few sites, so more for my sake than anyone else's I'll be posting a "things to do this week" list in the right hand column. Hopefully this will keep me on my toes so I don't miss things I really want to go to. I'm still experimenting but I think each week I will list a random SF neighborhood to explore and on Sundays I'll list somewhere to take a drive to.
If you know of something good, like a nice gallery opening or a free concert, please email me so I can add it to the list.
If you know of something good, like a nice gallery opening or a free concert, please email me so I can add it to the list.
It's not how good you are
I love this book. It is a short little read but it will make you want to change the world. It is written by an advertising executive so the layout is artsy, which I love.
Things I Love
1. Line Rider 2. Volkswagen Bug Convertible 3. Elizabeth Peyton 4.Photobooths 5. Catcher in the Rye 6. Swedish Bicycles 7. American Tourister Suitcases 8. Mrs. Meyers Geranium Cleaner 9. Milk Glass Cake Pedestals 10. Raffaello Candy 11. Barcelona Chair 12. A is for Apple 13. Izzes 14. McSweeney's 15. Cassandra Barney
Grape Hyacinth and Daffodils
These photos are of Martha Stewart's beautifully landscaped property. In my dream world I would hire a full time landscape designer to make my yard look like these pictures. {Also in my dream world I would actually have a yard.} See more here.
Children's Room
I think is my favorite teenage kid's room ever. It is the room of some girl in Argentina. Her mom has incredible taste.
I love these chairs
I bought a bunch of antique French furniture right after we got married. Ever since last summer I've been wanting to sell some or part of it. But you have to keep on top of it and keep posting it on Craigslist. In the last few weeks I've been selling off everything piece by piece. It is good because it isn't the most comfortable furniture I've ever sat in and after two years I'm sort of bored with the whole Victorian thing. Anyway, some guy is coming by tonight to look at these. They are my favorites and I'll be sad to see them go.
Red
Paul sent me the link to this beautiful photography portfolio. I think the polaroids are my favorite. I especially loved the photos of this little boy. I'm telling you, if I don't get a red headed child out of this marriage I will demand a divorce.
{UPDATE: Sorry guys, I didn't realize there was some "interesting" stuff on that site. I fixed the link.}
{UPDATE: Sorry guys, I didn't realize there was some "interesting" stuff on that site. I fixed the link.}
Mid Century Knock Off
Urban Outfitters has some new great Mid Century knock offs. This is a great couch with an even greater price point.
Pom Poms
I've blogged about this idea before but I was researching some cheap decorating ideas this afternoon and was reminded about these tissue pom poms. I really love this idea because it is easy and cheap but it has a big visual impact.
Keep Calm and Carry On
I love this Keep Calm and Carry On poster. I first saw it on Victoria's blog and more recently ran into it for sale on Etsy. They are reprints of a British WWII poster.
Busy Morning
I'm in the throes of working on some projects I've been trying to finish forever. I'll be back this afternoon.
photo via Real Simple
photo via Real Simple
Towels
After we got married I did a lot of research to find the best towel for our money. I went to three different stores and found someone to explain the difference in how each was made and what was better. I ended up buying Macy's Hotel Collection towels. They were some of the best quality and by the time I signed up for a Macy's card an bought them on a certain "sale day" they ended up being a steal. A year and a half later they are still really white, soft, and fluffy. Apartment Therapy just gave these particular towels a rave review, read more here.
The Sartorialist
I first discovered the Sartorialist last year when it was on everybody's blogroll. But only recently have I been making frequent stops to browse the site. It is basically a guy going around and taking pictures of beautiful and interesting looking people. He is a great photographer and writes wonderful comments.
30 Rock
I saw 30 Rock a few times and thought it was pretty good. But lately its status of "pretty good" has been promoted to "one of my favorite shows." The last three or four episodes have been SO FUNNY. Even funnier than The Office. If you missed them you can watch them for free right here.
A force stronger than me
The Forever 21 here in San Francisco is three stories tall. I cannot walk into it without coming out with something. There are just so many choices and then you find something you really love and you see there aren't very many left and then you think about how cheap it is...it is a force stronger than me.
Wallpaper
For some reason I have wallpaper on the brain. I hope everyone out there who owns their own home is taking advantage of their wallpapering options. I want to own a home just so I can wallpaper something. Maybe a hallway or a cozy den. These come from KWID, Studio Printworks, Secondhand Rose, and Anthropologie.
The Affordable House of the Week
Liz found this week's affordable house of the week. It is a 3 bedroom in the Sugarhouse neighborhood of Salt Lake City. Super cute. Only $339K.
Discount Luggage
Emily picked up a version of this Diane Von Furstenberg luggage at Loehmann's this week. I really really love it. I bought some great Ralph Lauren luggage from TJMaxx a few years ago. I love having matching luggage, it makes me happy.
It is that time of the year again...
March means it is time plan Paul's birthday party. This involves a combination of my two great loves: Paul and parties. This year I'm planning a simple appetizer party where we can have a few friends over. I'll write more on my plans later. I thought I'd post a few pictures from birthdays in years past. Last year Paul turned 30 so we had a big party for 35 people at Martine's in Salt Lake.
These pictures are from a surprise party I threw when I was still in college and he lived in Salt Lake. {That is Moozie, the bike I gave him.}
These pictures are from a surprise party I threw when I was still in college and he lived in Salt Lake. {That is Moozie, the bike I gave him.}
Sophisticated without being fussy
This photo comes from the NY Times House and Home section last Thursday. There is something about this bedroom that really resonates with me. It looks comfortable, it is sophisticated {that huge mirror is so great}, it is traditional without being boring and it isn't complicated. There are only a few pieces of furniture in the entire room. Love it! As it turns out it belongs to an editor from Domino.
via AT
via AT
Etui
I really really love these silk screened cards from Etui. I love them enough to frame them and hang them somewhere that I can look at them everyday. Only $3! See more here.
Party Invitations
I printed these invitations over the weekend for that party I'm planning at church. I thought they turned out super cute. {But really, how can you go wrong with scallops?}
Piperlime Review
I was so happy to find a white box with the Piperlime logo waiting in my building lobby for me last Friday. I was even happier to see the gorgeous packaging inside. The inside of the box was printed with limes and the shoe boxes were wrapped in chocolate brown tissue with a lime logo holding the whole party together. Even the return shipping information, invoice and thank you card came in a neat little green envelope. Seriously, they have done such a fantastic job at branding. Bonus: the shoes are really cute. I'm definitely ordering from these guys again. {I just hope they send me more coupons.}
Bell'occhio
Bell'occhio is a boutique tucked in an alley near my house. It has beautiful beautiful things like really precious ribbons, antique jewelry, paper goods, and special little odds and ends. I didn't realize they had a web presence. My favorites: Baker's Twine, Eiffel Tower Pen Nib.
Things I Love
Madewell 1937
JCrew recently started a new line called Madewell 1937. {Kind of a lame name.} It is their version of an Urban Outfitters but a little less edgy. The pricepoint is much cheaper than that of JCrew. This could be interesting... They have a site up already. You can order online or visit one of their two locations:
-Century City Shopping Center 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Space 98 Los Angeles, CA 90067 (310) 772-0428
-NorthPark Center 8687 North Central Expressway, Space 2124 Dallas, TX 75225 (214) 363-5414
-Century City Shopping Center 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Space 98 Los Angeles, CA 90067 (310) 772-0428
-NorthPark Center 8687 North Central Expressway, Space 2124 Dallas, TX 75225 (214) 363-5414
Birch
At one point in my life I was obsessed with opening a flower shop. {Is that a standard universal goal? Like everyone wanting to be a marine biologist when they are 10?} Anyway, Michelle sent me a link to this new flower shop here in San Francisco called Birch. I think my favorite are their free-standing bouquets. {first picture}
Pretty drink dispenser
These drink dispensers are great for parties and events. They are so much prettier than your standard drink dispenser. I'm not going to lie, I think the lids look funny. But that is redeemed by the fact they are only $12 each. {Just throw a ribbon around it to disguise it.} Reminds me of these big ones I posted about last year
Lost and Cornish Game Hens
We went to Emily and Rob's last night for a wonderful meal of roasted game hen. It was so delicious. Afterwards we watched LOST on their amazing high-def television. {I'm telling you, I could see Hurley's pores.}
Utility Apron
When I'm in my studio I always wear an apron. Last week I picked up a few utility aprons from Anthropologie. The ones I bought were similar to the one pictured but they were pink/brown, full sized, on sale for $15, and had a ton more pockets.
If you do any sort of arts and crafts where you need an apron this is a great one.
If you do any sort of arts and crafts where you need an apron this is a great one.
Cottage Living
I really love this home from Cottage Living. If you are looking for inspiration for decorating a room I like to look through their archives. They have a huge collective archive with other magazines like Real Simple and Coastal Living etc. Some of it is not my style but most of it is.
Oh How Charming
Sorry for the late start, my internet was on the fritz. It now works and my pulse has gone back down to a normal pace. I love all these hanging lanterns from the event production company Oh How Charming. Browse their site, they have some really amazing weddings.
{Via Style me Pretty.}
{Via Style me Pretty.}
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