LA BELLE BALEINE

2012-01-19T00:07:00.000-05:00

intelligent clashing

LE DANS LA

2012-01-18T23:58:00.003-05:00

LE DANS LA

2012-01-18T19:47:00.004-05:00

One of the best things Sarah Reid did for me was introduce me to this man's music.

2012-01-18T12:58:00.001-05:00

2012-01-18T08:47:00.004-05:00

From a blog, created by a friend of a friend. This article comes from the campus newspaper of my alma mater. Stay classy, IUP.

2012-01-03T14:34:00.003-05:00

2012-01-03T14:30:00.001-05:00

GREEN AND WHITE

2011-10-22T12:47:00.010-04:00

If you can first identify the things about your personality that are true and not "put-on", and then if you can identify small every-day things that you simply enjoy --that make you happy on the most basic level-- - if you can do these things, then you can craft an image of what your life at it's most blissful and contented state would look like.

That gives you a small blueprint, easily followed, that can lead you to a satisfied and honest life that will allow you to be happy with yourself.

Freunde von Freunden

interview with Malin Elmlid

2011-05-11T10:54:00.002-04:00

castello tistory, dream smile design, late night fashion

PAPERHEART

2011-05-04T09:19:00.007-04:00

I want to talk about Jessica Williams and her site Paperheart (some of her photographs are in the previous post) I tumbled upon this thanks to an accident, and now I'm thinking about making it my default. Why? Because the site is an example of good time put to good use, demonstrating that any idea no matter how quick or small might well turn out nicely. Many of the things this girl has created were ideas I had years (or not years) ago, but never acted on. Unlike other artists, who when they create things I know I could or should have created, she does not spark an idle sickness or jealousy in me. There is no feeling of eager, pulse-quickening defeat and desperate inspiration to "Better" her. Simply, I flip around this site and remember that we're all just a jumble of ideas and it's the lazy ones who get around to realizing them.

Anyway, among other things the girl makes books, which I love and would love to start doing again. I remember once upon a time I had the drive to do it, and did it until I lost it. How sweet to see this simple little works, done simply, over time.

In short, I like to pop in on her every day as a friendly reminder to just follow through, you idiot.

Zine

Diaryland

T7+ years of her journaling and bound into a series. I used to keep a journal and found it so interesting and ridiculous that I used to motivate myself to keep going by swearing I'd self-publish it one day. But never did, because of the feeling that there was no real reason to do it. Perhaps that's what is inspiring about it. Doing things for the sake of doing them.

Tenderness

A photo series for Books On Line. And if you haven't heard of Books On Line you're going to pee your pants when you get there.

BACK FROM LATELY

2011-05-03T22:43:00.004-04:00

There have been tornadoes and such, severe thunderstorms, big life decisions, brothers faltering with drug addiction recovery, visiting in-laws, near-nervous breakdowns and sudden sunny realizations; found and killed terrorists, monopolized radio-days, Canadian elections and other things political (Trump's hair, Obama's stand-up comedy); finally, there was the West Wing to finish, books to read (The Ticking Is The Bomb, by Nick Flynn, The People's History of the United States, by Howard Zinn) and old friends to email and be forgiven by: many reasons why one does not need to browse the web for inspiration. For when it stirs and breeds in your own backyard you have no need for others' divine thoughts and visual stimulation. That said, much is settling down now. And so I may peek in and out from time to time. (above, my favorite goldsmith, David Neale)

Also, Abbott started walking. He's a little boy. We look at him in his crib at night and wonder where he's fallen to, our small baby grown up so tall. He tries to talk. He eats solid food. He has two new teeth. I can hardly understand it all. Our cats have become outdoor cats. Our porch is covered in plants from a local greenhouse. A neighbor and I dug a plot, planted a garden. Thunderstorms come every few nights and I'm always totally frightened.

(top: moth pin by Warwick Freeman, via David Neale; other photographs by Jessica Williams of Paperheart)

PRAXIS

2011-04-18T15:12:00.003-04:00

Andrew sent me an email from work this afternoon linking me to an interview with a guy he'd gone to theater school with (he actually was a year or so ahead of him, but anyhow...) in Montreal. The interview was conducted by someone at Praxis Theatre in Toronto. It's a company he references from time to time as one of those companies we'd love to work for some day, who dedicate their hours and dollars toward developing interesting original work. Some of their posters are above.

Anyway, the interview is with actor Lwam Ghebrehariat and he goes into why it is certain theater school "success rates" reflect standard acceptance procedures, how maybe we should re-evaluate the way an actor might look at the future of his or her career, and how we should maybe consider mandating a minimum age-requirement for admittance to theatre school. Many of his sentiments I recall sharing during my years of study, so it's interesting to hear it all tied up in a sweet little Lwam package. Indeed, in regard to the age thing, I remember being 18 in a New York City theatre school thinking I was the bees knees, certainly the lucky duck who will be successful while the others waited tables. If I'd gone today instead of back then, I'd have buckled down and faced reality, worked differently, known things I know now but didn't back then. The rose-colored glasses having been removed, you know?

That stuff aside, it's Lwam's current "career" that I find most appealing, as he finishes up Law School, still occasionally performing on the side. His approach is exactly what we've had in mind for ourselves for Goodness knows how long. As we start looking at school again for A, it helps to have this little article as a morale booster, whispering "it's possible, it's possible," in our wretched little ears.

You can play a soundbyte and read the mini-article about him here:

http://praxistheatre.com/2011/04/exit-interviews-lwam-ghebrehariat/

JON RAFMAN

2011-04-08T13:05:00.002-04:00

By now maybe we've all seen Jon Rafman's photo-series blog 9-Eyes, compiled from his undoubtedly many, many hours of combing through Google Street View. When looking at some of the images, it's hard to imagine their not being staged and set.

Some are funny, absurd, questionable. Some are weird, some are vacant, some are sort of bland and obvious. Some are visual comments on life as we know it, encapsulating everything in a flash moment that we're ashamed of or afraid to look at. Many show us the sorry state of things. Or the blissful state of things. Whichever. A lot of them terrify me. And some of them are just aesthetically and compositionally beautiful no matter what.

Whatever they are, Rafman is another patient mind reminding us that the beauty is still in the everyday, the mundane.

2011-04-06T16:17:00.002-04:00

TINY THINGS WALKING IN TALL GRASSES

2011-04-05T13:56:00.004-04:00

If you've been on Etsy this week you know about Erin Tyner. With good reason, too. I love these prints, so to my friends and family: if you're wondering what you can get me for my birthday or mother's day, here's a big fat hint.

In her featured artist interview, Erin describes her creative process:

"My process consists of the following: 1. Conceptualize, 2. Storyboard, 3. Prepare, and 4. Execute. The conceptualizing stage is sometimes based on a highly specific idea but may also be driven by a light bulb moment later in the process. After developing a concept, I often storyboard an idea by photographing crude mock-ups and using them to digitally sketch the desired result. Preparation involves a number of activities from gathering and testing materials to choosing elements like perspective and lighting. Execution occurs when I have decided on the components to make up the photo. On paper, this looks like a linear process. In reality, it rarely progresses as orderly and includes a generous dose of trial and error plus room for happy accidents."

GETTING BACK ON THE GIFT HORSE

2011-04-05T13:06:00.005-04:00

I'll admit that I haven't been frequenting Etsy very much since my shop closed last month, and while I'm not planning on spending hours daily on the site anymore I had almost forgotten how nice it is to see the beautiful things other people have for us on there. Behold below, some of the more refreshing things to find on a dull, windy afternoon in April. I'm getting back on the horse here, folks, bringing you gift ideas, things you can decorate your home with, and nice things you can purchase for your sweet little babe.

Lee Lee's Closet

Fishink

Sewn Natural

MY MORNING AMBLE

2011-03-31T10:04:00.005-04:00

This morning after Abbott went down for his morning nap I did what I do every morning and sat at our kitchen table with coffee, bouncing through other peoples' collections of Internet stuff. It's my favorite way to ignore the laundry downstairs or the living room I could be rearranging for the twentieth time.

One of the reasons I do this is for the kick in the pants I'm always talking about. I'm looking for things that will inspire me into action. It works, actually, most of the time. I make small notes in the margins of whatever and vow to take one certain projects at a later date. I'll get there, eventually, but for now I'm living vicariously through other artists who have the time to work with their hands on a daily basis.

Like Fanny Bostrum, New York artist whose blog I've spent the morning with. She brought me to the lovely work below (and above), and the places and people from which they came.

...Like this nice little series from The Makers that reminds me: I keep thinking about a career switch into floral arranging. It pops into my head and then pops back out when I realize I have no experience whatsoever. Still, it's been added to the list.

We'll talk about The List some other time.

...stills from the "outsider art" masterpiece Salvation Mountain...yikes...

...photographs...

...paintings by Chuck Webster...

...these last two were done by Fanny herself, the portrait leading me to her jewelry line and the painting to her work in 2008 here, on her site...

...and some rings by Karl Fritsch

T&C

2011-03-31T09:42:00.003-04:00

via a drawing diary & F.B's diary

SAM SEABORN LEAVES...

2011-03-30T23:05:00.003-04:00

...The West Wing in Season 4! I know I'm about nine years too late, but are you kidding me?!

For those of you who don't know, Andrew turned me on to the show about a month ago. For a year he'd mentioned that it was wonderful, that he'd seen the series twice before, that it was brilliant. Other friends of mine had done the same over the years, and for some reason I could never be bothered to watch it. What the hell was wrong with me? Anyway, the show has turned me into a twelve-year-old. Sometimes I get so giddy when I hear the theme song that I scream into my pillow. I haven't done this stuff since I was a teenager chain-smoking through Pacey and Joey's first kiss. Oh yes. I went there.

Also if you're like me and getting into this show late: I'm sorry to have ruined the depressing surprise you have awaiting you in season four. I don't care what Rob Lowe is like in real life, Sam was my favorite. He gives me the giggles.

STUFF I USED TO KEEP IN MY POCKETBOOK UNTIL I GOT WISE TO HOW IMPRACTICAL POCKETBOOKS ARE

2011-03-30T23:00:00.006-04:00

2011-03-30T22:31:00.003-04:00

I was just talking with a friend of mine about procrastinating as new mothers and how you can really beat yourself up for it. You know, like how much time we actually spend online, reading or wasting time on Facebook, versus getting everything done that we want to.

She mentioned that sometimes, to help break the cycle, she makes To-Do lists and adds things she's already done, just to put a little spring in her step. Man, I do the same thing. All the time! What a neat trick. Thanks, Diana! I'm not alone in this.

RAEH JONES

2011-03-30T10:59:00.002-04:00

When I was in 6th grade a girl in my class died. And she was adorably sweet. Very quiet, but funny. This is a card I'd found in the suitcase from the Philly basement. She'd given me on my birthday, a little less than a year before she died. How nice to find!

VIA CAROLINA ECLECTIC

2011-03-29T09:56:00.003-04:00

Thanks to this really sweet little feature on the fantastic design blog Carolina Eclectic, I was turned onto pepito mi corazon, a french blog with incredible photos of this beautiful family (above.) An eye treat for mamas like me.

Thanks so much, Carolina Eclectic. We seem to share a lot of the same feelings and aesthetics, so I know I'll be back again and again. Guys, go check out both of these blogs when you get a chance.

CLASS ACTS

2011-03-28T10:21:00.001-04:00

2011-03-28T09:44:00.001-04:00

Fully aware of the delicate nature of getting personal on the internet. Have started telling myself to cut it out, so we'll see how that goes. Meantime, things carrying on, most domestic and normal, some out of the crazy. Let's see. Both cats have been let out, though I couldn't exactly let Lou free without a collar of some kind. Ornery or not, he has nice fur and someone will take him, I know it. I've met some mothers, finally, at my first ever book-club meeting where there was a lot more wine drinking than book-talking, let me tell you. That was refreshing. The weather has been beautiful most of the time, hitting 80s and 70s (through dropping yesterday, so whatever) - we've been on the porch a lot. Abbott plays in his playpen out there, talks to old popcorn boxes and his play kitchen. Andrew's been building a coffee table from some salvaged wood taken from the piles that used to be the Section 8 housing across the street from the baseball stadium. I hung two hammocks in the backyard with neighbors. We watch The West Wing every night before bed, sometimes in the weekend afternoons when the baby sleeps. Lately in dreams Sam Seaborn is my best friend and we're sort of fighting crime - that's not a joke. My Etsy shop closed for good, which was sad at first but now sort of liberating. There have been some wonderful things to enjoy in these past weeks, and some sad things to ponder on.

A good friend of mine told me of a horrible experience she once had with a misrepresentation in a magazine article interview, which she granted to a person she trusted after being told the article wouldn't have a negative spin on it. The interview was basically about her life, where she was, what she'd done, what she had or hadn't accomplished by that time. When the article ran --in a very high-profile magazine, by the way-- it was written not by the person she spoke with, but by whomever the notes had been passed to, and her life story became spun into something most people would be ashamed of. Her quotes were taken out of context and so were details regarding her state of mind, her moving and traveling habits and reason, and how many years it took her to finish college. Basically it made her out to be a loser when she wasn't.

She told me about it the other day in her kitchen, when I'd come over to vent that I'd had a hurtful encounter with some really bitter and "anonymous" people on an internet site devoted to taking down Etsy sellers they believe to be impostors. We talked about human nature and what it is about some of us that makes us so vindictive and hurtful, or self-righteous.

The magazine's web publication ran this article that was written about her --with her full legal name-- and when it did the comments that followed completely tore her apart. They ripped into her without a thought. The anonymity that surrounds the internet comment box is an invisible cloak. People say what they want and don't care to spell-check or use correct grammer, they just hate on whoever it is they're hating on. So much so, that these comments about my friend had less and less to do with the actual content in the article, and more and more to do with whatever personal wars these people were hoping to fight and win. Wars about people who are directionless and godless, who aren't saved by Jesus Christ, who waste the taxpayers' money, who have "Peter Pan Syndrome" and refuse to grow up, who live off their parents, always sleep in and always, always rent.

I have no idea how long it took her to shake this off, or if it's even happened. The virtual hate mail hurt her. We talked about teenage kids and how fragile their psyche is, how it's no wonder they consider and commit suicide in a world where so many people don't care about people, only about how they can most effectively and anonymously (read: safely for themselves) hurt them.

Anyway, happy thoughts to you.

NOTES

2011-03-27T20:02:00.001-04:00

GUEST: BESTY

2011-03-24T14:21:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite shops this year is Besty, so I've asked the artist behind the shop to give us a little write up. Her stuff is what I'd plaster all over my son's walls, crib and and body if I could. I cherish her work and explanation as to why it is she uses animals as her subject matter -- refreshing, considering how trendy the animal kingdom has become! I love and believe how honestly she comes by it. I'm so thrilled to have her here!
__

My name is Betsy Dorman and I opened Besty in September 2010.
I've always loved photography and different manifestations of the portrait through history. While I did get my degree in photo, I have always been drawn to drawing and making things with my hands (it was always a nasty joke at art school that the photo kids were photo kids because they couldn't draw!) So the animal silhouettes seem to be a great unifier of so many interests I have. I loved reading about the nature and habits of the individual animals and trying to integrate those characteristics into their physical portraits. I think that is my favorite thing about making art... that I always have a fantastic excuse and lens through which to explore and dive into any world that interests me. I am also an art educator and working with students has helped me rekindle my appreciation of the basic elements of art. I've always loved artwork that toes the line between representational and abstract, and silhouettes are essentially just that - a complex, abstract shape that is somehow instantly recognizable. But when you break it down, it's just a shape that derives from an outer line that dips, curves and juts out in exactly the right places. While you may not want to look at a portrait of a stranger, there is something universal about animals. Kids, grownups, city slickers, country folk ... animals just have a certain appeal that is relatable. Maybe it is the endless opportunity for personification. Maybe it is the vast variation in the basic facial elements that we see across species. I don't know. I just love them.
I always have. Making these things brings me such joy and I only hope they do the same for the people who buy them and make them a part of their lives. I've been very lucky since my shop opened up. I have found Etsy to be such a wonderful, creative environment of both artists and buyers. I am so grateful for people like Molly who support and encourage my work through blog features like this!

In addition to the silhouettes, I also feature drawings, cards, linoprints, baby onesies, custom designs, handmade upcycled wool/linen stuffed animals & the spoils of any successful crafty adventures I happen to embark on.

All words written not in italics were written and submitted by Betsy Dorman; all photographs taken from her shop, featuring her awesome work for sale. Please visit her shop and leave comments here for Betsy

FINDING SAFETY IN KIND PEOPLE

2011-03-24T10:47:00.003-04:00

I've discovered the shop being closed might have lots to do with a very hurtful feature in a very hurtful blog. I'd forgotten the promise I made to myself when I opened the shop and began this blog to steel myself against angry irrational comments and respond only to constructive criticism. I wrote a response to these people in my defense, and I'm sure will ignite some sort of activity against me. I forgot the world of hurtful people is like a cascade that will only lend way to avalanche.

Sometimes when things like that happen I like to indulge in people like Maggie from Folkloric. He blog's visuals into her daily life (above) remind me that there are people in the world I feel like I could have a conversation with that wouldn't fill me with a feeling of hopelessness.

Other blogs that do this are An Apple A Day and Piccoli Piselli. Thank you for being such positive people in my day-to-day.

via Piccoli Piselli & An Apple A Day

BUDDING ENVIRONMENTALIST

2011-03-16T20:01:00.005-04:00

I found these and other things in a suitcase I had stashed in basement of the house in Philly.

I'll be sharing this stuff over the course of the next several days. Bet you can't wait for that.

THE JERSEY FOYER

2011-03-14T09:39:00.005-04:00

I took the Megabus from Philly to New York during our visit last month. I moved away five years ago and every time I come in by way of driving through New Jersey I get shivers. Sure, it's part anticipation to be back in wonderful New York, but it's also in part to the awesome entrance the New Jersey flats and yards make. Such magnificent colors and visuals welcome you if you're coming in on a clear day - even more so if you're coming in at sunset.

I went up there to see a play featuring a very good friend, production managed by another really great friend, written and directed by a talented playwright. If you're in New York I strongly urge you to see The Hallway Trilogy at the Rattlestick Theater in the village. The trilogy is made up of three plays written by playwright Adam Rapp. Since I was only in for the night, I was only able to catch one of them, titled Rose, but it was wonderful. Go check it out - I believe they have another week and a half of their extended run.

FROM THE ILLY

2011-03-13T15:51:00.008-04:00

Last month we visited old friends in Philadelphia, some of whom needed to meet Abbott.

Some child scrawlings on a wall.

2011-03-13T09:47:00.003-04:00

[via]

HONEY BADGER DON'T CARE

2011-03-11T13:10:00.002-05:00

It might be safe to say that I've found my favorite people on the internet. The shop Corduroy who can't do any wrong by me.

Their prints, cards and other things are exactly what I'd spend all my cash on if I was still reckless with my finances.

And by the way, I'm not calling them steep. Their mugs are worth every penny, I think. Just wish I had 25 bones.

MORE NEALE

2011-03-11T10:10:00.002-05:00

I already talked about this guy, but whatever.

DAILY BROWSE

2011-03-11T10:08:00.006-05:00

via the golden smith, disastery, ici-marie, peter nencini,

YOUR AUNT'S, YOUR OLDER SISTER'S CLOSETS

2011-03-09T12:12:00.003-05:00

We have this table. We don't have a chicken, but this soon might change.

Closet Visit

BREAD BOOKENDS!

2011-03-08T19:38:00.003-05:00

by Two Art Directors

HUI HUI

2011-03-08T14:26:00.002-05:00

Hui Hui

+ the this

DOLLING YOURSELF

2011-03-08T09:53:00.002-05:00

Today's treasury featuring some of these things (below) reminded me that while I'm not exactly a "fashion" person, I sure do miss wearing, you know, stuff that makes you feel nice. In honor of my constantly wearing jeans, sweaters and sneakers these days...

Mammal & Lamb

Apologies for an earlier mistake, in which I called this shop Mamma Land Lamb. You have to admit, though, that it was pretty funny.

GOLDEN SMITH

2011-03-06T20:40:00.002-05:00

David Neale is a goldsmith who has made one of the coolest collection of jewelry I've ever seen.

YOU'RE WELCOME.

2011-03-05T19:29:00.003-05:00

Remember the one where Claudia got the idea that she was adopted? Oh, here it is:

or, if you will:

"In her mould-breaking novels, Judy Blume was the one adult who seemed to get it. I still remember the punched-in-the-stomach feeling when the mean girls turn on Jill in “Blubber”. Stupid, shortsighted Jill. Crossing Wendy like that."

- via this awesome article on the haunted library

BINGO & BUSES

2011-03-04T13:58:00.004-05:00

Thanks to Alison of the notoirous blog Teenangster I'm turned onto Andrew Miksys. See these samplings from two photo series Buses and Bingo.

In her post, Alison takes a couple of quotes from a Douglas Coupland book Life After God. I can't thank her enough for reminding me this book exists. Friends, have you ever read something at such an appropriate time in your life that, looking back, it seems impossible to comprehend ever not reading it at that time? When I was fifteen my boyfriend gave me Life After God as a gift and it completely changed my view on life for the better. Provided shape and form to some thoughts I'd already began to make. What book did this for you? (A friend of mine just answered this with Catcher In The Rye, which at first seems to be an obvious choice, but then again cliches become cliches for a reason, don't they? Gosh I love books...)

Going Dutch & French Kissing: Back From Vacation

2011-03-02T20:59:00.002-05:00

Below are some new shops I'll be featuring regularly (and some old, which you're already familiar with). Loyal readers know I tend to "hover" around my favorite places for weeks at a time and constantly plug them, whether you all like it or not. Yikes.

After being gone from the Etsy web for a couple of weeks I feel I have a lot of catching up to do. Same goes for this blog. It's like being out sick from school - lots of work has piled up. These shops I've stumbled across upon my return home from our trip (more on that below!) They're helping me make up for lost time.

(favorite shop right now)

March has begun and with it hopefully some new fervor. We moved to Carolina for the fine weather and fine weather we indeed have! When I step out into 76 degree perfection I can feel the worries falling off and staying back in the apartment where they (don't) belong (but we're still working on that bit...)

We've returned from our trip to Philadelphia knowing quite well that we'll probably be moving there by fall. We even (think) we found the neighborhood we're after. I could get into how I lived there before and have a pre-married-with-child relationship with the city, but that could take hours and really would just end up sounding dull. I'll just let it rest that living there this time I will have a family, and thus the world around me will be different than it ever was before.

Moving back to a city is exciting because it means we'll be around different people with different backgrounds. I may finally be swayed to learn another language (French, most likely, or at least Quebecois) and we may even muster up courage (er, money?) to travel. Yes, moving back to a big city just may be the kick in the pants that we need. We promised ourselves just before we had the baby that we wouldn't change our lives completely, that we'd still be the people we wanted to be. It's time to take back the reins and move somewhere filled with museums, other languages, people from all over - the important things I can expose Abbott to.

So here is a treasury inspired by my newly re-discovered wanderlust, Going Dutch & French Kissing. Here, here to the lovely places in the world that still exist even after you give birth and life changes as you know it

2011-02-24T08:42:00.002-05:00

"I try and make work with the notion that my paintings may have been dragged up from the bottom of the ocean."

Jeremy Miranda - in an interview here.

2011-02-18T13:47:00.001-05:00

Some things I'm doing right now (last night, actually):

-Bleaching my hair (for the third time in two weeks -- this shit takes a while when you've had dyed dark hair for ages)

- making 'to-do' and 'to-pack' lists

- trying to think of what clothes to pack for our journey north-ward. Normally this wouldn't be much of a thought, but the thirsty part of me is thinking about my one-night-only pass to NYC to visit some friends. It's been a long time since I felt good wearing anything. I'd like to feel pretty awesome on that night, visiting a city I used to have a love affair with. One wants to look good on these occasions.

-thinking about going to bed, and how awesome it's going to feel when we someday get a bed we really love. Our current one is crap.

-wondering whether we should move to the country or the city.

-thinking about how fantastic the weather has been these past two days, and how lovely it's going to continue to be this weekend.

-thinking about sweaters and other things I like.

-browsing through pictures that illustrate the above thoughts.

xoxo.

The Sartoralist

v. Interstellar Saloon

v. mer mag

oliver & lilly's

Cup of Jo

Turned Out

(Some of the above images are unclaimed. Please claim them!)

2011-02-18T09:25:00.002-05:00

While Abbott naps this morning I'm rushing about trying to get things in order for this weekend: friends are coming for a two-day visit before we journey with them up to Philadelphia for a week long vacation. I'm sweeping, dusting, doing laundry and, yep, procrastinating. Who cares? This morning when I woke at 5:30 it was already warm-ish outside. Birds were chipping and the squirrels made their first appearance since the beginning of winter. Such a nice surprise made me not care that I was awake so early. (I am super sleepy, however.)

At first I was sort of bummed to find out that it's going to be cold after all when I'm up in Philly and New York next week. But then I thought, No, bring it, Winter. One last time. If it's warming up down south for real (the squirrels and the birds certainly seem convinced that it is,) that means I can pack away our sweaters when I return. Why not use them one last time? I hated winter so much this year, I think I'll try to buddy up to it this week just for a change of attitude.

And suddenly, some more inspiration:

I know I'm not the only actress who looks up to Kate Winslet, but she's done something to me since I was a young girl watching Sense and Sensibility with Ma. Sometimes when I feel like my motivation is lagging, I look at this photo. As I pack my bags I'm muttering audition monologues
under my breath, just to get in the spirit. I happened to take a break, log into Pinterest and here she was again. Coincidence? Thanks again, lady.

(everything courtesy of Bonnie Tsang, who can always be counted on to cheer me up.)

A VACATION FOR THE POOR IS WHAT MEDICINE IN ICE CREAM IS TO A DOG

2011-02-16T21:13:00.005-05:00

On Sunday little Abbott and I are headed to Philadelphia on vacation.

We're regretfully going without Andrew, who can't take the time off from work, but I really need the change of scenery and the opportunity came up. It will be the first time I've had to care for him all by myself, but I'm so up for the challenge. We're going to be staying in the house I lived in when we first learned I was pregnant, hosted by my old roommates.

You have no idea how excited I am for this. Things have been so tough lately that I feel like a spurt out of town will boost my spirits tremendously. One of the things I'll be doing is leaving Abbott with a caring friend for an evening and bussing up to New York to see some great friends and a play they're working on. I'm hoping that will be the kick in the pants I need to start taking my own career's future seriously again.

If you're a regular reader, you know that I've been having a really though time with Postpartum Depression. Recap: had a baby in June, moved to North Carolina where I live in near-complete isolation with the husband and baby - broken up only briefly by pop-in visits from my dad and happy encounters with my neighbors. PPD is a tough cookie even without "starting over" in a brand new town, but add being super poor the the mix, and you're bound to have more Down days than Up. Part of the issue is the financial bind we're constantly in, but the rest is divided between our not knowing what to do with ourselves and the fact that we rarely get out of the house. What to do? Take a trip.

We'll be in Philly for a week, punctuated by the quick visit to New York. I very much look forward to sharing this trip through photos and anecdotes in the coming weeks. I promise to try to use the good energy and turn it into a different game of life.

I'm about to get a vacation from life as we know it, and it's coming at a time where it's badly needed.

( shoes from Small Earth Vintage / graphic was taken from this awesome poster designed for Asel Art Supply ... isn't it awesome?)

BACK TO THEIR FUTURE

2011-02-16T07:52:00.006-05:00

Irina Werning's ongoing project.

"I love old photos. I admit being a nosey photographer. As soon as I step into someone else’s house, I start sniffing for them. Most of us are fascinated by their retro look but to me, it’s imagining how people would feel and look like if they were to reenact them today... A few months ago, I decided to actually do this. So, with my camera, I started inviting people to go back to their future."

Driving Home Quietly

2011-02-16T07:36:00.004-05:00

Last night Andrew and I drove home in silence, no doubt trying to stave off the comparisons that anyone in a marriage would have drawn up having just seen Blue Valentine. Luckily, in our case, the parallels stop just after a pregnant afternoon wedding with the court justice, but I was thoughtful anyway, just enough to feel very, very thankful to have Andrew - and, naturally, determined "not to let us end up like those two." Guys, go see this movie. I can't pretend to be a movie critic, and while anyone else with a theater background will have every technical angle covered I'm sure, all I can say is this: I'm very glad we were able to see it. I think it was well done. Beautiful, quite naturally human, sad and honest.

2011-02-15T12:55:00.002-05:00

Some things I'm doing right now:

-Bleaching my hair (for the third time in two weeks -- this shit takes a while when you've had dyed dark hair for ages)

- making 'to-do' and 'to-pack' lists

- trying to think of what clothes to pack for our journey north-ward. Normally this wouldn't be much of a thought, but the thirsty part of me is thinking about my one-night-only pass to NYC to visit some friends. It's been a long time since I felt good wearing anything. I'd like to feel pretty awesome on that night, visiting a city I used to have a love affair with. One wants to look good on these occasions.

-thinking about going to bed, and how awesome it's going to feel when we someday get a bed we really love. Our current one is crap.

-wondering whether we should move to the country or the city.

-thinking about how fantastic the weather has been these past two days, and how lovely it's going to continue to be this weekend.

-thinking about sweaters and other things I like.

-browsing through pictures that illustrate the above thoughts.

xoxo.

The Sartoralist

v. Interstellar Saloon

v. mer mag

oliver & lilly's

Cup of Jo

Turned Out

(Some of the above images are unclaimed. Please claim them!)

Freunde von Freunden

2011-02-15T12:40:00.003-05:00

I haven't yet downloaded any translating device mainly because I really like the mysterious nature of photos found on a far away blog. Perhaps that's not fair to the blogger, which in the end is probably what will make me buckle down and give in, but for now sites like Freunde von Freunden have incredible content that remains shrouded in mystery.

Marion Bataillard & Ivan Rogow

photos taken from their article and interview on Freunde von Freunden

Tatjana Sprick

from her interview on Freunde von Freunden

IF YOU LIVED HERE: ICELAND

2011-02-10T09:46:00.003-05:00

I came across this perfect photo on Anthro Creative's Flickr.
It's the perfect home, I think, in a beautiful country. Below are some
things I've found that seem like they might fit inside a house like this.
Or at least they would if I lived there. Most were included in this
special treasury I spent almost two days making. Seriously.
That's how much I like this image and these things. Picky, picky.

_____

Go Ask Weyprecht

Monkey & Rabbit

Comet Wreckage My Favorite Vintage

The Old Red Hen

Mousetrap Vintage

Dana's Joy

Tortoise Loves Donkey

Maximilla

Vintage Bizzy

Fishbone Deco

___
Photo via anthro creative

INTERIORS BY PAPA STOUR

2011-02-10T09:39:00.003-05:00

Papa Stour

2011-02-09T14:55:00.003-05:00

On Valentines Day we're getting a babysitter and going to see a film that will make us nervous about our new marriage. I can't wait. Blue Valentine is supposed to be awesome. I haven't been this excited to see a film since, well, earlier this year (Never Let Me Go, which I never ended up seeing).

Ever since Dawson's I've had a girl crush on Michelle Williams. That crush went on hold until I briefly met her and Heath Ledger at a party on a rooftop in Brooklyn, and up it started again because she is just as pretty and laid back in real life (not that she'd remember a brief, casual introduction, but it was a nice one). After that small encounter I knew she was a real person who was an actor, just like me, only she worked more often. That bizarre sense of 'celebrity' that formerly blocked the truth of our shared humanity was taken away by the booze we all shared at that rooftop party. When he died I cried for her and their kid because I knew they actually existed and were mourning someone in their life, not some actor who did a good job at being the Joker.

These pictures make me think she might be one of the more beautiful and unique-looking creatures alive right now.

RUTHS ST. DENIS + TED SHAWN

2011-02-09T06:43:00.005-05:00

Ruth St. Denis and Ted Shawn were just about the coolest married couple back in their day. Sort of the Mom & Pop of modern dance - together they created the Denishawn school in California, one of their students being Martha Graham (that's a big freaking deal), among others before Shawn went on to create the Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival with his male dancers (by the way, he's basically the reason men started being taken seriously as modern dancers.) Also, they were sexy as hell. They met when he saw her (the Powerhouse) perform and, awestruck, he auditioned to be her male partner on her next tour. And then they fell in love. Awesome.

Thanks to Alison at Teenangster for the photo of Ruth which reminded me of how hot these two were.

Jacob's Pillow

2011-02-08T21:35:00.004-05:00

"Not once, but twice I left a pair of undies in the dryer of my boyfriend’s mother’s home.

She was nice enough to return them promptly both times, priority mail."

So, Amanda Ross-Ho is a multi-media installation artist who I sometimes enjoy.

There's a blog I really love called This Long Century which, if I'm to understand it,

has "guests" - usually artists - write a page about really anything they want, about

any image/s or people, things, etc. that seem to hold some significance for them.

I've actually referenced the blog before. I like it because instead of these artists talking

about their own work they talk about other peoples or, you know, funny stories or

photos they've come across in their days. Causal. I like that the blog lifts that divide.

But anyhow, one of my favorite 'guest pages' is Amanda Ross-Ho's. She just shares

some silly shit. I love it. Here are some bits, though you could just check it out!

_____

"I made this crib note during my freshman year of high school in order to cheat on a Biology exam."

"As a teenager I was an avid journal keeper. It was an activity I occupied myself with primarily while cutting class—I think I thought I was leading myself in some sort of alternative curriculum. I compiled the following list over the course of several days in March of 1991."

This goes on for 38 pages.

___

Some of her textile work.

2011-02-08T10:35:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure which is more nuts to me -- that Abbott's first drawing was done on an iPad,

or the fact that the iPad belongs to his grandfather.

2011-02-08T07:09:00.003-05:00

my folks.

{front left two}

pops there with Woody Allen's On Being Funny and a headshot in his lap.

{far right}

2011-02-07T17:06:00.003-05:00

Lady of leisure! Friend Alex is not only an awesome

writer and artist, she's super fun and has this great

collection. And her photos are just about the fanciest.

2011-02-07T13:09:00.002-05:00

These things were featured this afternoon in this treasury,

one of my favorites so far. It was inspired by the sort of boring

weather outside - cold and non-descript, the kind that makes

your eyelids heavy. Soft greens and mint, as well as any pastel

color or lighter woodgrain ...it all makes one feel better. Do you

agree? People, I don't know about you, but I'm ready for spring.

Vintage Urban Renewal

P.S. I've been a little bothered about constantly posting treasuries

and/or things without much else to the post itself. I'm not sure how

interesting it is beyond an obvious "plug" for these shops and artists

(who by all means deserve it, don't get me wrong) and visual candy

for you to chew on.

Therefore, since so many of these collections are chosen based on

a scheme of color, I thought from now on I'd create a little color

palette to go along with the collection, as well as some textiles and

paintings (or how about images in general) that also fit that same

color scheme.

This will obviously begin with the next treasury. I'm very tired and

am going to hide under my bedcovers until the baby wakes up.

2011-02-06T00:28:00.003-05:00

New listings in the shop!

I'm very excited because

I'm getting near the end

of my current stash. That

means I can start focusing

most of my free time on

finishing handmade things.

Softly Grape Jar

Wooden Pepper Mill & Salt

Banister Miscellany

Faded Dot Milk Glass Bowls

Desktop Note Organizer

Golden Thumbprint Flower Earrings

2011-02-05T21:13:00.007-05:00

More of this in Visuals

Or how about some Payton Turner? Also in Visuals.

v. Sibylle Bergemann

+ v. Na Nin Vintage v. Need Supply Co.

2011-02-05T16:55:00.002-05:00

Have I mentioned my cousin is a tattoo artist?

She is. Emily Rose works at Little Johns Tattoo

in Greensboro, NC. She's phenomenal. I have to

say though, the tattoos on their website don't do

her any justice. Here are some of hers that I dig

most. I am proud to say that as soon as I'm done

breast-feeding (and when it's my turn in line) she

will be doing mine, too. The suspense is huge!!!!!

Go ahead, plan your trip to GBNC to get yours.

Obviously, she is better than your former artist.

(I know, I gave this one a big 'WTF?' too)

_____

Speaking of tattoos.

Here are some that

are keeping me busy

while I wait for mine.

Can't. stop. looking.

(need supply + v. intelligent clashing)

2011-02-05T12:49:00.002-05:00

Well, I'll take two of each. I mean it's not like we need to eat or pay

utilities ever again. I'll just spend all of our money here from now on.

{Yokoo}

2011-02-04T10:24:00.004-05:00

I steal from Miss Moss a lot, but this morning I decided to steal in bulk and share some of the more awesome posts I found this morning. Clicking into her These Things section I am obliged to reveal these highlights from the past:

First, this clever montage:

PRIME BIG SERIES - SMALL SCREEN from steven huybrechts on Vimeo.

Plug opportunity! One good friend is a supporting role (ahem, the lead's son) in Hung , and another just got a great recurring role in Boardwalk Empire. I haven't really seen much else of these shows (save Six Feet Under, which I miss desperately), but as I said, the montage is great.

One project that's been left on my backburner is writing and illustrating (or finding someone else to illustrate) a picture book. Miss Moss has reminded me of:

Colin Meloy (The Decemberists), and Carson Ellis (his wife, who does the band's cover art) created this book together.

I'd like to do something like this for Abbott someday, as a great gift from Andrew and me. Maybe we could write the story of what our lives were like (dull) before we met and what our journey was like (crazy) to get to him.

Did anyone have those blank hardcover storybooks in grade school? I remember I once made one about how we got our dog - I know the illustrations and spelling were just awful.

vanessa jackman , citizen couture, garance doré

You don't know this about me, but geology is something I really, really dig (hah! nerdy pun!) This poster is exactly the type of map and cross sections I worked with a lot in school. Believe it or not, I actually know what these pictures are of! I'd love to have one. I'd love it.

And as always, I just plain dig these images:

steve v.

flourfight

COLD ROCKIN FOUND CONVOY

2011-02-03T10:19:00.003-05:00

v. ffffound, cold-rockin, convoy, haw-lin

THE HOMEBODY

2011-02-03T08:26:00.004-05:00

Bunker snuggle hunker down, y'all.

As always, go check these shops out. It's so hard to choose just one thing to feature from them. They all make someone like me weak in the knees.

WEAVING TOWARD BABY STEPS

2011-02-03T07:58:00.005-05:00

I'm working on making a Projects section, but until then I'll have to talk about the things I'm working on right here.

So, it's really tough for me to prioritize and distribute what I view as "responsibilities" throughout my day (as if I don't mention that enough on here). What have been suffering the most are any kinds of creative pursuits, which often get started and then forgotten.

Earlier this past fall I started a weave that I've really wanted to finish but keep getting blocked, either because of poor time management, distractions (baby, blog, shop, life, etc.) or because I literally don't know where to go with it now that I've started.

To illustrate, it took me about two weeks just to get this 3'x3' done

(should have taken hours, but I'm not supposed to be using words like "should")

Some of you know that I've "embraced" (not the right word to use at all) the fact that I'm still working thorough Postpartum Depression -- I can tell you that it definitely does deserve the proper Capital Letters-- and that I'm currently on a quest to make living more manageable, while still trying to boost motivation and get more things done. Oh, and I'm also supposed to start feeling sorry for myself. And avoid phrases like "supposed to".

Anyway, living life in a more manageable and meaningful way means: delegating, prioritizing, simplifying. And taking baby steps.

Part of this means eliminating a few things from my daily life that aren't necessarily things that I want or need to be doing. Another part of this means making specific time for things that I do want to be doing so that I don't dwell on the fact that I didn't, later.

Like weaving.

Whew.

So anyhow, a big [baby] step forward is finally finishing this project, even if it takes forever. When I meditate on it, I envision finishing this larger piece, it looks fabulous, and then I feel the motivation to create many smaller pieces, which gets me in the groove and I can suddenly have something (weaves) that I'm creating in a creative field (textiles and fibers) that I really enjoy and admire, and will no longer be angry at myself for not participating.

I swear, not all posts will be like this.

2011-02-02T13:46:00.002-05:00

Not to be a Debby-Downer, but this is getting to be unbelievable. Hope you're all following.

Cairo, today, via Huffington Post

2011-02-01T19:20:00.006-05:00

v. interstellar saloon
___

___

While the process is quite straightforward, I would like to offer up the disclaimer that not all fabrics will take to tea staining. For the most part, cotton and linen are your best bets, as well as paper. If you’re wondering whether or not your chosen cloth will work, try staining a small, out-of-direct-view patch first. Otherwise, you should be all set.

Tea-Staining Fabrics
1. Boil 4 cups of water in a medium-sized pot.
2. Add 4 or more bags of strong black tea (we used Prince of Wales) to the boiling water, depending how dark you want your stain.
3. Continue to boil until the water is reduced by about half, around 20 to 30 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and allow tea to cool for about 10 minutes.
5. Place a towel underneath the object to be stained to absorb drips.
6. If you are staining a lampshade, like we did, perch the center of it on a vase or similar object to keep it raised above the towel (for drying).
7. Paint the tea on with a foam brush (that’s the route we chose), a regular brush, a rag or whatever works for you.
8. Be sure to brush out any streaks, unless you want them.
9. Use a lint-free towel to remove any drips, if necessary.
10. Let dry before handling.

Read more at Design*Sponge http://www.designspongeonline.com/2010/10/small-measures-with-ashley-tea-staining.html#ixzz1Cl0AY6WX

via the swamp, the sartoralist, nothing is new, jayson home and garden, design*sponge

2011-02-01T12:33:00.003-05:00

Ladies, have you ever received a piece of jewelry you loved from your mate? This year for Christmas I got a beautiful locket from Anthropologie (above) with a picture of Husband holding our baby inside. Just what I'd asked for. I think he sparked something in me because now I want more jewelry.

Ordinarily I wouldn't consider myself a material girl in the least (looks around at apartment full of things,) and certainly not one with rich tastes. But these necklaces I want. I want them.

Oh, and before Andrew I'd never dated anyone who celebrated Valentines Day with me, except in paltry ways. So I have a lot of catching up to do. Except for one or two (which I wouldn't expect), they are very affordable. Darling, are you getting the hint?

Hmm, what has happened to me?

*I hate to play favorites, but...

(also look at their long brass whistle necklace, which I've already mentioned)

Elizabeth Santry

Our Weekend

2011-01-31T11:50:00.006-05:00

While we wait to afford a city where we can resume our careers as actors, we are searching for a purpose outside of being parents. We've been talking about opening up a Cafe here in Winston.

Such a pipe dream has come and gone often in my little head since working at The Lady Killigrew Cafe (pictured below) in Western Mass, but lately as we discuss the potential details, things seem a bit more real. We've started taking notice of locations that would be good and investigating real estate for lease. We're going to be taking a small-business seminar. Hmm. Interesting. We'll see how this idea takes shape.

What we've decided would be the ideal location. Brookstown, Ave in Winston-Salem, NC.

The Lady Killigrew, Montague, MA - former place of employment, was started and used to be owned by good friends of mine.
The first two people I'd talk to if we decided to make this happen. Also the two people most likely to tell me I'm crazy and talk me out of it.

The Last Drop, Philadelphia, PA. A place I used to go to often, where the light is still killer even when it's gray and raining outside.

The Federal in Australia

Bluebird Coffee Shop, NYC

top image via the haystack needle

2011-01-30T22:42:00.002-05:00

I want to buy an old house.

Like Jo, here.