the tipsy pineapple

Inanutshell

2011-09-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

Working all the time sucks.

Having money, does not.

Here's what I've been doing with the money I earn from the job(s) that take up all my time.

Picked up our new Tempurpedic last night for $400 below cost- its nice to know someone at Sleepy's...

A necessary new (old) strap for the baby!

It also fueled my ebay habit...

The kooky looking shoes I ended up with!

I love them- super light & breathable!

Did a 5K no problem on Monday...but my calves are killing me today!

No luck on the boots expect I found the flannel lined ones at Target for $30 instead of $100...but they are sold out.

Of course.

Headed to the army/ navy store next week to try and find a bag...thats not $175...although that L.L.Bean bag will be mine one day...

but I need to find a bag to convert to a camera bag too....

more projects...

And I went to Maine, and it was gorgeous.

Pictures to come when I don't have work...

Maybe tonight!

Gearing up for the Pig Roast...(!!!)

Running...

Shopping...and returning

Pay off bills...(Yay!!)

Looking for a job that pays enough so I only have to do one...

at a good company...(that's the new goal)...

getting rid of fleas on fat and old cats...poor babies...

mentally preparing (and physically gathering) for Kel's extravaganza...

working..

That's me in a nutshell right now.

Happy Tuesday!

Crap...its Wednesday...

Things I would like...

2011-08-25T06:50:00.000-07:00

in the very near future...

a vintage strap for my new baby

fake RayBans that I can't even justify spending $

30 on...

a new mattress

a new pair of kicks since I ruined my sneakers at work-

and I don't need another excuse not to run...

well 2 pairs...

I'm going to try out some hippy running shoes...

or 3...because maybe this Fall will be the Fall that I get boots that I loveeee

and flannel?! Please and thank you

a new bed frame or headboard

This one would be amazing, but I don't see it happening...

And I've been searching for what I want to do.

As in my dream!

But then I just get side tracked by buying a wardrobe for said dream.

We are moving forward though- at least in the wardrobe department...

I'm looking that things that don't include jeans...or t-shirts...

Like this look-its lovely!

Especially the belt

Also a lovely weekender bag

or this one if it was bigger....

And have you seen this???

L.L.Bean Signature

Its not your Mom's L.L.Bean...

Actually, it is my mom's L.L.Bean, its just not 'now mom's' L.L.Bean.

I need it all.

And a cabin in Maine apparently.

I could use the new weekender bag for weekends at said cabin....

Learning to pack

2011-08-18T06:11:00.000-07:00

Last week I smartened up and didn't over pack. At least when it comes to art supplies. I've just come to accept that although I plan on crafting and creating while I relax, it just doesn't happen. I planned on capturing moments in oil pastels or in words on a journal page, but no. This time, my first time at CuzFest, I did however capture hundreds of moments on film- or at least on the memory card of my new baby. One medium I did mean to bring was watercolor, so I could do things like this....

or this..since I found a new love for blue crabs...

and maybe this one day...

Never the less, last week was well spent: sunning, swimming, eating, drinking, and napping. And oh ya, making bread.

Lots of bread.

10 loaves to be exact (I brought my Le Crueset) that were gobbled up by young and old.

And I finally finished American Gods.

Which was incredible.

I suppose I should explain 'CuzFest.'

CuzFest is a week where CTA's generation gathers together in a big house on the coast and brings (if applicable) their children and all the older family members (parents/ grandparents) come to visit. We cook giant meals, go crabbing, and relax.

This was my first year.

Of many more to come.

Photos soon.

Swears.

Birthdays in July

2011-08-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

A belated Happy Birthday to my one and only mom.

Whom I love.

And is just so wonderful.

And smart.

And talented.

And kind.

And beautiful.

And my mom.

A reduction print...something Mom and I may have to try...

Also, an on time* Happy Birthday to my one and only sister.

Who I also love.

And am so glad she's part of the family.

Even though she is terribly hard to shop for (;

*This was supposed to be posted last Monday, however I discovered that I don't have any lovely pictures of these ladies! Instead here is another lovely thing. And a dinosaur.

A slightly Twilighty print- she loves it too!

This will hang in my kids' room.

Because its funny.

Things I love right now...

2011-08-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

I'm 6 hours off a 17 hour working day and I have a few things I'm lovin' ala aeb over at Dear Friend (quite a lovely blog!)

Secret Cucumber Aloe Deodorant

I usually hate fruity armpits, but I'm 6 hours into using it and its just fresh and nice since I also hate the smell of baby powder.

Maybelline Super Stay Concealer

Because it does what it says it should and its the only one I can find that matches me in the summer months while I'm tan.

BYO Lunch Box

Mine is a different color & my laptop case comes from the same people! Its stretchy and cute and I love it.

FiberPlus Cereal

Its delicious and good for you. And it has yogurt covered somethings.

My new (to me) Canon Rebel XSi

Duh.

Even if its only used for food porn.

On the up and up!

2011-08-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

My phone died yesterday.

I felt naked.

And out of touch.

I had to use Facebook to contact CTA.

I want to get rid of Facebook.

Its a time suck.

And a brain suck.

I rather be loving my life, not looking at others' lives.

I do love to snoop though.

And I do want an iphone.

With a really great case.

I (well N and CTA) finally got rid of my couch.

After an impulse $600 purchase 4 years ago, and a nightmare of moving it each time (its a horseshoe sleeper sectional), 2 years of storage and water damage, it is officially on the curb and will be gone (fingers crossed) by the time I get home.

Sometimes, only in retrospect does a 'good deal,' become a sharp thorn in your side for friends (who store it) and family (that move it).

Luckily, I was able to buy N and CTA a round last night for their troubles at La Boca and then witness a crazy thunder storm on my way to dinner at N's house.

My sister-in-law had been playing Suzy Homemaker all day and dinner was great.

CTA left at 5AM this morning and after a sticky night of crappy sleep, I woke up every half hour to remind myself to go for a run before work and then talk myself out of it based on the impending 15 hours of work in front of me today.

4 days.

6 shifts.

1 pedicure with the sister-in-law.

1 concert.

Beach time.

and....breathe.

And listen to these guys-

their Heineken commercial makes me happy.

And the beat goes on...

2011-08-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

This weekend was less relaxing than I anticipated.

Actually, I'm a little exhausted right now. CTA was able to come home early from his business trip, which is great, but his presence added to the lack of motivation I had to do the things I should have done.

I pulled a double on Saturday, but we floated down the Farmington River yesterday.

That was great.

Overall, I'm sort of exhausted.

Working two jobs, and regularly having 2 days a week that I work more than 17 hours, is starting to wear on me and my relationships and my life.

The only place it isn't wearing is my wallet.

Thats why I'm still doing it.

I got a raise at my 9-5, but it managed to be negligible because I'm in a new tax bracket.

I love my new camera, but I haven't had time to use it much.

And I want to spend $200 on a bag for it.

Its that Catch 22.

I can't complain too much, I'll be on a beach in a few days, for

a week...but I'll be busy thinking about all the things I need/ want to do. Like I want to see my parents more, and my grandmother, and my little cousins, and my best friends. I want to garden and paint and make things. I want to go to the gym and relax and cook and read more. Instead I work. Or waste time stressing about not having time.

Vintage Postcards

And you thought the pity party was going to end last week.

Sorry.

CTA is leaving again tomorrow morning and again I'll be working 6 shifts in 4 days.

I'm exhausted thinking about it.

Here's to a final push today and a week of sun, sand, and photos next week.

A rough week...

2011-07-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

So this week went into the gutter...

well...

not really..

I worked Sunday night,

which ruins my weekend...

CTA left on business for the week :( on Monday.

I visited my oldest friend and her amazing son.

I pulled a double on Tuesday and saw a friend from Georgia.

I got 3 hours of sleep on Wednesday morning before talking my Southern

friend to breakfast and the airport-

after which I slept in my car for 30 minutes...

at work..

during which my boss parked next to me.

Last night I wanted to go home and sleep.

Instead I drove to Worcester with Kel to potentially die by a Craig's List killer (I'm still new to the online buying).

I wound up with a practically brand new Canon Rebel XSi.

Which makes me happy.

I came home and slept...too long.

I woke up 7 minutes after I was supposed to be in work.

I'm working until 1 AM.

I have tomorrow off and am going rock climbing with Mom,

CTA is coming home,

I'll be regrouping.

And THAT is enough of THAT.

Weekly Wrap up:

2011-07-22T07:28:00.000-07:00

A lovely quote:

Mackin Ink

If only I had the time...

and the money...

and the cojones to wear them...

How to Envy a Retronaut

Congrats New York.

Too True.

Another fab thing to come out of Canada...since hockey...oh wait...Boston took that didn't they...hmmm..hehe!

Gwen Delicious

Havin' a heat wave...

2011-07-21T19:53:00.000-07:00

So its flippin' hot.

That means angry, frustrated, sweaty customers at my day job.

It also means angry, frustrated, sweaty staff at my night job.

I just hope I don't drip sweat in someone's beer.

Eww.

So, I'm going to channel my inner peace via the internet with

tons of water,

(ARE YOU KIDDING ME?)

via Cup of Jo

and beaches,

Charleston, RI

and ice,

via Lori Langille & here.

and ice cold adult beverages.

Add some vodka perhaps...

And reminding myself that my other job is necessary....right now.

Three words:

WATER

FRONT

PROPERTY

There goes paying off my bills...

2011-07-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

So I found this shop via Hither and Thither.

And maybe I want everything they sell.

Buy it for me.

Pretty please.

I'll be your best friend.

Lastest To Do List:

2011-07-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

I wanted to create a short(er) list of my goals by the end of summer, and here we are, mid-July. I better get it in gear!

And I meant to post this...oh you know...6 weeks ago.

This way I can already cross some items off- with photo proof!

So there!

Refinish dressers
Make/ hang Roman blinds FOR THE WHOLE HOUSE.
Couch quilt
Finish pillows

Coffee table
Headboard/ Map Wall
Hang lanterns
Flower/ veggie/ herb garden(s)
Agave painting...and maybe this one isn't 'done-done,' but its hung!
Recover chair

I Heart New England

2011-07-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

Pin Pointed Travelers at Longtrail

This weekend, I spent 3 days and 2 nights with some of my favorite people, enjoying Vermont, eating, and drinking. CTA, CTA's brother, my brother, my sister-in-law, and her brother headed up to the Vermont Brewers Festival on Lake Champlain in Burlington. I love these people so much. My sister-in-law is really a sister as CTA's brother is my brother. It was our second year as a group and my fourth or fifth time personally. The ride up was gorgeous, windows down, Curtis' BBQ time. We stopped at Harpoon, Long Trail, and Otter Creek before getting to the camp ground for dinner. The next day we walked the "mile" to the shore and cooled off.

The festival was fabulous as usual. Empanadas, falafel, and Bacon Beer were the biggest hits. Stone Brewery, a family favorite, showed up from the West Coast. We weren't sure why, but we enjoyed it the same. Bender was an absolute chick magnet as usual and he made all sorts of friends. I managed to see one of my first crushes from CT, a former Eli's employee, a high school acquaintance that started a brewery, and a grade school best friend.

These things only happen in New England.

Trapp Family in Stowe

These things make me happy.

Off to VT!

2011-07-15T07:33:00.000-07:00

I'm off to Burlington, Vermont with CTA, his brother, my brother, my sister-in-law, and her brother for our annual trip to the Vermont Brewers Fest. With that, I leave you somethings that make me happy...or laugh:

CTA get passive aggressive, but these are intense.

Bubbles Over the Fjord

Shout out to cool dads- my dad had a sweet mustache...thats now a beard.

Llama Font.

CTA started talking about getting llamas...

Growing, Growing...

2011-07-14T04:36:00.000-07:00

Growing up, we always had a garden...or five. There is photographic evidence of me, at 2, running full speed to said garden and face planting in the freshly tilled earth, only to start shoving my pie hole with the dirt. Yes, my dad stood by proudly and my mom had time to go and get the camera to document the event.

When I got older, my brother and I would pick green beans or cucumbers, for some reason always at the hottest part of the day. I would eat so many tomatoes during the summer that I would end up with canker sores from all the acid.

Life was good.

After I moved out, I realized my lack of garden space (being in an apartment) as well as my lack of a green thumb.

When I moved in with my brother, I planned on two years of being able to raid his garden.

The first season was spent on wedding planning and other activities. I did not fret knowing I would have another whole season to plant, water, wait, and eat the spoils.

Low and behold, I 'left,' after 18 months and missed out on the second season.

Although CTA doesn't have an affinity for making things grow, he is a hard worker, does his research, is friends with my brother, and listens to me. I fall back on what my family has taught me.

This is the outcome.

This makes us want more land.

This makes us sit on the porch and drink tea and dream about the next property.

This is perfect for right now.

Lemon balm (for future soap making), Egyptian onions, strawberries (that will fruit next year), mint (for mojitos, teas, and Thai food), basil (for bread and Thai food), Italian parsley (for this- sans thyme & basil), and cilantro (that has been picked clean for herb butter, Thai food, and EVERYTHING else...I put it on everything).

Cukes for pickling, 2nd round of Buttercrisp lettuce (the first was a dud), English Breakfast radishes for Bloody Marys, hot peppers, green bell peppers, and tomatoes!

The infamous cucumbers.

These babies were growing nicely, I was watering them every morning, loving them properly, etc. One morning I came outside to find that something had been chewing, eating, digging in their trough. The next day, something had pooped on them. POOPED.

After discussing it with CTA, we realized that our garden used to be the neighborhood litter box.

Great.

CTA installed a fence.

I recently discovered Sun Tea.

And rediscovered mangoes.

These two combined with my need for instant gratification, I've started to brew it.

Daily.

Mmmm.

Birthday Beach Bash

2011-07-13T17:19:00.000-07:00

So alllll the way back in April, I went to St Maarten..or Sint Martin...or whatever language you want to read or pronounce it.

It was a 'Friends Vacation' according to CTA.

His friends.

And their girlfriends.

This made me slightly nervous.

I really like all of them, I just don't know them that well.

Within hours of sharing two bathrooms among seven people, that 'don't' became a 'didn't' because they're all great and crazy in their own ways AND they even got a cake for my actual birthday.

A CAKE!

I love cake.

And I love them too..

Not because of the cake either....

The view from our balcony- literally a stone's throw

Downtown Philipsburg

Our also private boat for snorkeling.

It was sunny and lovely and my first time in the water, and after seeing a sea turtle the clouds rolled in. On our way back, we stopped at a lagoon. We were freezing from being pelted by so much water and wind that the ocean was warmer than the air and was practically steaming.

Anyone can snorkel on a beautiful day.

Only we can go and enjoy a lagoon during a rainstorm!

EconoFoods

CTA and I love Price Rite at home. Its ghetto and cheap and makes for the best people watching.

When we first arrived, we asked the taxi driver to take us to the closest market as we had a kitchenette to use. He attempted to take us (as we found out later) to their version of a Stop & Shop.

We wanted to go where the locals went.

We wanted to eat what the locals ate.

They didn't want that.

We were white and not 'unwelcome,' but definitely not 'welcome.'

We asked the driver to stop at this warehouse of a store that had a visible produce wall along the back.

Everyday, CTA and I, and anyone else not being lazy (side eye to Goomba), made the mile or so trek to stock up on sandwich meat, rice, mangoes, and most importantly Caribs.

The Caribs were the worst to carry back.

Mud Baths during our snorkeling trip before the rainstorm.

And yes, the limestone mud really does make your skin feel amazing.

*UPDATE: Writing this now is killing me. Its 91 outside and all I want to do is be at the beach. Or in Sint Maarten. The weather was phenomenal every day- not too hot, not too cold. This was also the first trip that I didn't drop loads of cash. We ate family dinners most of the time (there wasn't much around us), I didn't stock up on crappy souvenirs, I just took home a nice tan, tons of photos, and a $5 license plate...that was probably ripped off a car. The other possibility is that CTA paid for everything- which is a good possibility, but I'll just chalk it up to my 25th birthday.

Esshh.

Monday Dinner

2011-07-12T05:32:00.000-07:00

I made these last night.

*Word to the wise: Don't try the carrot slaw immediately- the graw garlic needs a few minutes to mellow & add cilantro...to everything...always....

And these (minus the shrimp.)

With CTA's siracha, sweet & sour, amazing sauce.

And they were both amazing. But they're one of those things that you know are healthy- I mean its chicken and veggies. So you eat too much. I really should have taken a picture because the colors of the food coincidentally matched the plates...and hot sauces. I gave Kel's' takes-amazingly-beautiful-pictures-without-even-trying-camera' back so I just feel like my camera isn't worthy to take photos unless I'm in a high risk area- meaning the camera will inevitably be dropped, get wet, or sat on.

Here we go again...

2011-07-11T06:09:00.000-07:00

Drum roll please......

I'm back. Well sorta. Just like last time.

Blogging is always on my long list of things to do. So is 'go to the gym,' and somehow that always gets pushes to tomorrow's list. Its a great way to remember great websites or projects I'd like to try, but to also document hilarity and all around awesomeness that follows me- like an interactive diary- with links and pretty pictures.

So as I sit here, eating Fiber cereal with extra blueberries (we picked 20 pounds yesterday), I'm at least attempting to make a vow to update more, thus keeping you in the loop as well as leaving a record for my future children that proves that I was more awesome than they could have imagined.

I have an ego problem.

Here are some pictures from the last few months that will serve as teasers until the whole story is regaled bu yours truly. And yes, regaled is necessary, because they are all inevitably epic tales.

Saint Maarten

Birthday Gifts from Mom

Gourmet Cooking

Bonnaroo Play Time

Breaking up is hard to do:

2011-04-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

Here's the thing. I've been feverishly...OK, not feverishly, but regularly catching up on blogs and I'm finding that many of my favorite bloggers have more than one. One personally driven and another, passion or career driven.

So here's the plan: I break up with my blog.

I have my personal, DIY, handmade, photo diary, travel, good things, obsession, awesome blog, and then...AND THEN, I have my wedding blog.

Its a no brainer because I blog so much and post daily, religiously.

And I have so much spare time.

And someone is going to see the wedding one and be like:

'OMG! We need you on our team!'

'I want to pay you tons of money to quit your job and design my wedding!'

And if that doesn't happen, there's the backup plan:

Someone will see my super awesome 'Mega Life' blog and be like:

'OMG! We need you to be the awesome on your team!'

'I want to pay you tons of money to quit your job and be awesome!'

And if all else fails, CTA will take care of me forever.

He doesn't know about Plan C.

Or at least the financial portion of it....

Foolproof I'd say.

And here's some basic awesomeness for future employers to get a general idea of the level of awesomeness they are dealing with.

I still have a year to go...

2011-03-30T06:14:00.000-07:00

...but I'm realistic. There are things that will not happen in the next 358 days. So, I'm making my own rules and transferring somethings that I know won't happen. Sure, I would have liked to have been super human and accomplished everything, however, I am not. Looking back, I am extremely excited about the things I have accomplished and I would have never dreamt that I would be where I am- all 636 days ago. Plus, I'm up to 124 items. And that's not 101. So there.

Here's the start of list #2:

Drive the length of Route 66
Go to the Neon Graveyard & Double Down Saloon in Vegas
Try surfing in Big Sur
Skateboard Venice Beach on a longboard
See the Grand Canyon again and raft it!
Eat at Voodoo Donut in Portland, OR
Stay in a yurt
Read all the books I own
Do five shows (0/5)
Watch 20 'Classic' movies (0/20) including Wizard of Oz
Start a website
Finish learning Spanish

Crap. I'm still over 101 on my original list. Ehhh.

Creativity can't be stopped.

2011-03-23T06:04:00.000-07:00

Well, I feel like its the end of an era.

When I sat down to dinner with my mom the other night, I took a sigh of sadness and relief at her announcement. She has decided to close the studio. Years ago, I can't remember how long because I was busy being a self-involved and pain-in-the-ass teenager, my dad converted one of the buildings on our property into a retail and craft space. Because he isn't prone to saying 'I love you,' he built her a physical representation of his love....and a scapegoat for gift giving for years to come. Anyway, over the next 10(?) years, birthday parties and girls night were held here. My brother's wedding was prepped for in the studio space just this past summer and hours and hours were spent creating here.

Fortunately, none of that will end. Between myself, my mom, and her friend and business partner, the studio had become a thorn in our sides. It was always that reoccurring item at the bottom of the checklist. It was always the item that always got pushed to tomorrow's or next week's 'to do list.' Whether it was redecorating for a new season or inventorying a new consignee's work, it was always too much work for one person and never enough money to make it a job. Classes, and parties, and events will still be held here. Art will still be created. We've decided on a few events a year and inviting all the artists who have so patiently participated over the years back for 'shows.' These openings give us the opportunity to create and not feel guilty for neglecting the studio. We can concentrate on a few days a year instead of scrambling to keep it open every weekend. The Golden Egg was and is a great idea; A group of local crafters and artisans coming together in a beautiful location to share their wares. However, life gets in the ways of certain things. Whether it be proximity and time, like me, or unavoidable life changing events, we all must adapt and make choices that make us happy. This closing is sad, but as my mom said, 'Its going back to our roots.' We will once again be crafters and artisans, not business people. And I'm happy with that.

One year left...

2011-03-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

Well, in exactly one year: March 22, 2012, my 101 in 1001 will be done. I still have A LOT left to do! My list has expanded greatly past 101 and probably against the rules, I removed some items. They just weren't important to me anymore. Most of this probably has to do with my love of 'crossing things off.' Like on a 'to do' list- I'll write something that I've already done that day- just to cross it off-maybe just to feel like I've accomplished something- a measurement of time.

Its absolutely insane to look at where I was when I started.

I was a different person.

I take that back.

I was the same person physically and emotionally trapped in the hell hole.

Back then, you couldn't have told me that I would be doing what I'm do or that I could ever be this happy.

Everyday is awesome- even the one's that sucks.

So here's to crossing mor items off my list, not avoiding the ones I'm afraid of, and why not- to "Adonis DNA and tiger blood."

Birthday for the boy...

2011-03-21T19:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated to my Favorite because:

1. He'd rather go to an Irish hole-in-the-wall like Anna Liffey's instead of something that's..well...not an Irish hole-in-the-wall.

2. He insists on the new Sunday tradition of a real (preferably crock potted) meal...especially when handsaws are necessary.

3. He accepts my friends and has an amazing group of friends that have welcomed me with open arms and stomachs.

4. We cook and work well together to create things like this:

So,

Happy Birthday CTA!

Best Friend's Sister's Best Friend's Wedding

2011-03-18T19:29:00.000-07:00

Some how I got roped into 'helping' with the invitations for the aforementioned bride to be's shower.

Not that I'm really complaining.

It was relatively easy, I got some practice, and reconfirmed my super awesomeness...and I knocked off the invitations my mom and I made for my sister in law's shower.

And besides, working with the easiest bride's maids, I got to keep all the left overs!

Kel and her sister purposely met me late at the craft store so I could design and pick out all the materials and they could just pay.

My kind of clients.

Over sized hibiscus stamping

Printed vellum ready to be punched & tied

Final shots of the invites when Kel gets back with her (and my) camera from her cruise- possibly with a ring on her finger!

This was good practice since I'll be designing her whole wedding!!!!

Updates (and pictures) galore.

2011-03-17T06:49:00.000-07:00

$25 ugly bathroom fix: paint & a shower curtain

Fabric he picked out and an old sweater= pillow covers

(why yes, he did pick out a lovely paisley!)

The evolution of Etsy shipping...I think I'm on to something here....

The most romantic Valentine's day gift ever: an oil rubbed bronze toilet bowl brush.

Here's the back ground story: Since the first time I'd been in CTA's house he had this gray bathroom mat. Over the summer, I'd used the bathroom, shower, wiped my dirty hippie feet on it, etc. After moving in, I inquired about when he bought it (when he bought the house 1.5 years ago- coincidentally the same time the toilet bowel brush was FOUND at the house- yes included in the selling price) and the last time he washed it was. NEVER. Really? NEVER. Because he didn't think it could be washed. Worst part? He would put his clean shower towel on it and dry his feet. Need less to say, I washed it. Surprisingly, it was blue. Immediately after purchasing paint to spruce up the bathroom before a real renovation, I immediately tossed it and purchased new mats (which he hates to use out of spite) and a shower curtain to match. And since the kitchen and most lighting fixtures are oil rubbed bronze, I found my $10 Valentine's day toilet brush and named myself as The Best Gift Giver Ever. Yes, that was a tangent. Don't lie like you didn't enjoy it.

Fake oiled rubbed bronze pressed tin back splash- doesn't photograph well- but looks great.

And yes, I already patted myself on the back of picking that out and subtly convincing him how awesome it'd look.

And some cupcake love, because why not?

75 never looked so good!

2011-03-02T03:58:00.000-08:00

Thank you Penguin Ink for putting out a killer line-up of covers for your 75th anniversary.

Titles include:

I'm pretty sure I'll be making the investment considering all the covers include rockabilly and flash art- still very near and dear to me...although I am considering less and less getting a real flash tattoo (Mom will be happy)- in favor of a one-off. Then again, maybe not. And then again, maybe my mom won't be happy.

I also plan on picking up T.C. Boyle's The Tortilla Curtain-great tattoo art there too.

I was shopping at Border's last night- my least favorite of B&N vs. Border's- because I had a bunch of gift certificates and 15 are closing in the state-so I was hoping for a sale. I still feel awful for my hypocritical ways. I love going to a bookstores. Smelling the books, browsing for hours (I found out last night that CTA does too!!), but I find all the books are wayyy over priced- at least in comparison to Amazon-hell all the links here are Amazon! So here I am, sad about the closing, annoyed that I'm spending my free money on over-priced books. Either way, I picked up Lolita which was recommended by a very smart friend and within pages I'm already loving the admittedly conversational tone. I also picked up Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead- which the more I think about it, I already own...thanks Mom! And yes, the only reason I got it was because of these awesome t-shirts that make me I feel like I should read and own every title. (If they had this one or this one- I would have bought it!)

While writing this, I drooled over the Penguin 75 list and decided I only want about 30 of them. CTA will have to build me more shelves.

More pictures of the move to come.

Crap, now I'm late for work.

Sunday was...

2011-02-16T05:57:00.000-08:00

stew kind of day...

1. Brown economy pack of ribs (because they were on sale) on all sides in breakfast's bacon fat

2. Deglaze pan with garlic, onions, and red wine

3. Transfer to giant pot because the crock pot is too small & stir in veggies

4. Chop whole head of garlic and sprinkle over bread & toast

5. Move in art supplies & cat

Green & Yellow

2011-02-08T18:24:00.000-08:00

So the Packer's won.

Fabulous.

I don't really care.

I like cheese.

Lots of cheese is made in Wisconsin.

The Packers are from Wisconsin.

That is as much of a positive connection as I need.

I'm more concerned about the fact that I ate approximately 7,000,000 calories. I complained about this last weekend and you probably thought I was exaggerating. Maybe I was then. I am not now. I woke up at midnight. Ready to vomit. Seriously. From being so full. Not pleasant. A certain Chili Cookoff took place. There was plenty of trash talking. I learned some things and called a truce.

Our chili

some of the spread sans chili

vegetarian chili-very good regardless of the fact that its an oxymoron

grape jelly meatballs

cupcakes I successfully avoided...in favor of cheddar ale fondue (not pictured) even though I love store bought cupcakes.

I'll be in the gym for the next 1,000 hours.

Or at least I should be.

St. Maarten.

Crap.

I have a problem...

2011-02-06T07:03:00.000-08:00

I might have to start going to meetings...

My food porn addiction is rubbing off on CTA.

Snow day 'kitchen sink' soup

Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Icing

Super Bowl Sunday Chili

See you soon on Intervention.
Start writing your letters- I'll start you off:

'Your addiction has effected me negatively in the following ways:...'

Wedding Wednesday...this is it.

2011-02-02T08:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the fine folks at Green Wedding Shoes, I found this gem of a wedding! Seriously. So many elements I love. This may be- dare I say it- my favorite wedding. It was photographed by the very talented Kelty of Steep Street. I pretty much stole all the pictures- because they are all too perfect. She also did engagment photos for Khali and Potsch- that you can find here.

Married in front of their new 'family tree'

Scraps of fabric tie the whole audience together and matching bridesmaids' shoes- not dresses- but I love the peacock palette

Mustaches & Handmade Spats

Airplane Flight Inspired Seating Chart

Vintage Suitcase & Coloring Pages of the Bride & Groom

Sausage Menu & Gorgey Fabric

Terrarium Centerpieces

Funky ribbon garland, natural wood pedestals, & Michael Goundry

Jam Favors!

My favorite pom-poms!

I also loveee the company that the bride and groom have Honey B. Too cute and funky.

Update! I found more photos of the wedding- check out the stop motions jump shots about 1/2 way down!

Weekend. Briefly. Warning: Food Porn Ahead.

2011-02-01T14:00:00.001-08:00

A very crazy, very kind woman decided I would have brunch on Sunday. At my house. For me. We went big.

And went home!

CTA's potatoes

Thick Cut Bacon

Action Shot

Strata, Fritatta, & Scones

Homemade Garlic Bread

Drumming...all day...by everyone...

Brunch lasted all day and doubled in size..

Ribs in the crock pot for 10 hours...

So if you were wondering if it was a success, I'd say yes.

Big Time.

Music Monday...Florence + the Machine

2011-01-31T08:18:00.000-08:00

So I've been overly obsessed with this song lately. As in blasting it in my car and singing (screaming) at the top of my lungs.

And when I'm done, all I can do is smile.

Its that awesome.

And she's a red head.

This video isn't the good one from the MTV Music Awards (amazing cinematography), but still worth a look.

Watch Florence + the Machine - Dog Days Are Over (Live) on MTVMusic.com

Normalcy is on the horizon...

2011-01-29T07:50:00.000-08:00

So I was told I have to update my profile. I've heard that once I start receiving mail at a new address, that's when it's official. That hasn't happened yet. I've moved my loofah-which I think is a big deal. Maybe once my studio space is set up. Yep. I said it: STUDIO SPACE. AKA the space bedroom, but I'm OK with that. Monday I'll back to regular non-complaining blogging.

Riveting.

I know.

Here's something cute to hold you over:

Here it is after the jump if you need more.

Commonwealth

2011-01-28T13:41:00.000-08:00

So we've been working on the kitchen. The house is circa 1925 and was owned by a photographer. I can't take any credit for seeing the beauty in its purchased state, considering I'm a newer addition than the cat, but I have seen an impressive transformation. When I came into the picture, even in the 'friends' regard, there were awkwardly placed walls and ugly carpet. I was called upon, with some flattery by my brother, to help design the kitchen. Fast forward a few months and I was helping pick everything from the wall colors to the lighting fixtures- so that it would feel more like 'my home.'

He appreciates my input and likes my ideas. He isn't afraid to say 'no,' but he's also tries everything once- and is learning to trust.

Original cabinets, refinished & distressed- no thanks to Martha's paint

Chocolate Truffle under Heavy Cream

Cappuccino Walls

Oil Rubbed Bronze pulls

Crown molding & full-size-bed peninsula courtesy of my brother

in HD Laminate in Deepstar Flint- the hardest choice yet...

Refinished original floors that came out amazing

Cast Iron Sink (with Pebblz mat) & Oil Rubbed Faucet

Butcher Block

Now to order the back splash...something like this...

pick up two more bar stools...

and install the base board...

So maybe it isn't such a short list...

Food Porn & A Very Important Hook

2011-01-27T06:13:00.000-08:00

So I'm officially done being melodramatic and melancholy.

All thanks to:

1. The photo shoot being cancelled due to weather. Which means I might be able to snowboard tonight...or better yet- RELAX!

2. I made this last night! And I have big plans for adjustments to the recipe...rosemary & garlic? Why yes.

3. I had this for breakfast- oh ya- that's home & handmade bread with home & handmade peach jam- made by yours truly.

4. One very crazy, very lovely lady has decided that we're having a 'house-warming brunch'- for me at my new house Sunday. And there will be strata...made from my new favorite bread.

And of course, I saved the best for last.

5. I brought my good shampoo, good conditioner, and LOOFAH to my new address, proclaimed that he's 'stuck-because I brought my loofah!' and was ushered to the bathroom where he hung a hook- just for my loofah.

I'm home.

Tom's Bread and Scones

2011-01-26T06:52:00.000-08:00

So I worked out Thursday and Friday. Really watched what I ate over the weekend...but not what I drank. I worked out last night and I'm up 6 pounds. Great. So instead of actually avoiding carbs, etc., I'm making this bread that the dearest neighbor Tom has perfected. Its amazing. Out of the oven or the next day...and I'll probably make some orange scones that N & C gave me the mix for from my favorite breakfast spot- Julian's in Providence. Counter productive? Maybe. Delicious? Absolutely.

Hands down best Bloody Mary's. Ever.

(and yes, the picture needed to be this big)

Being crazy is time consuming.

2011-01-25T05:49:00.000-08:00

So its effin' cold out. So I hear. I'm in bed. And still warm. I'd like to continue my rant from last post and feel sorry for myself for the next few days. I have too many things to do in a short period of time- mostly things I want to do- but I get overwhelmed and end up not doing any of them. Its Monday morning- and my week is already full. I just want to get a move on this move- but more of that later.

Monday- Work and the Gym...again counting down to St Maarten.

Tuesday- Work, Spinning, and Dinner with the girls...I planned it, but I don't really have time.

Wednesday-Work, Gym, Photographing a band..that is building up my 'colorful' resume. I'm still in the process of figuring out how to be paid for being awesome and a 'Jane' of all trades...

Thursday- Work, Snowboarding...if we don't all die in this next blizzard...makes me hate my car more-but then I remember that I will get a new car (or new to me) next January.

Friday- Recover from snowboarding, gym, go see an allergist because I am so over having hives all the time, actually make a scarf that I'm getting paid for, and moveeee, dinner with S & N....wait I think I'm supposed to go to a concert...crap.

Saturday- Work...attempting to do all the things on my list that I didn't do on their allotted days, but going to some party instead.

Sunday- Repeat Saturday, minus the work part.

Back to the stress of the move. The thing is, is that its not actually stressful. Its rather leisurely actually. What it really is, is me getting in my own way. Sabotaging myself.

I'm moving in with a super great person who is truly lovely, and kind, and funny, and makes me want to do awesome things and be a better person. Yet, I've convinced myself that he doesn't really want me to live with him. That I'm putting him out. That I'm pushing too hard. I take his lackadaisical attitude towards me moving in as his avoidance of it. Ironically, its something I love about him- how relaxed he is- but its something I hate about him-because sometimes there's no sense of urgency-when there should be. I know that he cares about me, but I question whether he's ready for this all to happen.

Luckily, I can talk to him about it.

And tell him how I feel.

And I hopefully only come off as mildly crazy.

And he'll still love me.

And want me there.

With him.

And all my crazy.

This came up when I googled crazy. I like it. Found here.

Makes me wanna...

2011-01-24T17:58:00.000-08:00

So this time of year makes me want to hunker down and hide under the covers to emerge for only two things: to bake ridiculously delicious (and not diet friendly) treats and to make stuff....but only after a week or so of doing nothing. Simply nothing. However, I do not have the metabolism to deal with delicious and inevitably buttery treats and not become a fatty...Nor to I have any self control. Instead, I'm on the try-to-figure-out-how-to-make-more-hours-in-the-day plan. *Side note: I love that I am writing this while digesting approximately 7 pounds of pasta. Any who, I have exactly 87 days before I go on a trip. To St. Maarten. Thus that was the last piece of pasta between now and then. Crap. Only if I didn't have a million and one things to do I guess. And by a' a million and one,' I mean go to work, attempt to sell things online that I make- or find, and be happy. Being happy is seriously getting in the way of my gym routine. The fact is I'm not going to the gym because I'm thinking and stressing about moving- and I haven't even started doing it....hmmm...I definitely don't know where I can start finding more time. OK, I'm done.

Well that was riveting- now wasn't it?

And here are some links, since you deserve after such good listening.

Check Ashley out- she's the bee's knees.

I'd really like this....one day.

I need to make one of these...

Here's my offical 2011 list...

2011-01-20T10:59:00.000-08:00

Here are the things I'm pumped for in 2011...

Making new jewelry & listing etc.
Getting a new/ part-time job
Moving in with CTA
Blogging more
Taking more pictures
Paying off debt
Spending more time with Bacon Bit
Getting healthy
Learning to snowboard
Painting more
Creating more
Going to Bonnaroo
Going to St. Maarten

& having more fun!

And its only January. Here's to the best year yet!

2010 Close out...

2011-01-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

December started out in St. Louis. Alone. For work. I ate at the bar every night. So I didn't have to get a booth for one. Super lonely. Amazing. But lonely. And cold. Still exciting.

Here's the run down, complete with commentary:

Blueberry Hill, rude bartender
Moonrise Hotel, A-MAZING- and the Eclipse Restaurant there is great too!
Kaldi's Coffee, good breakie- like Starbucks, but an old man laughed at me. Not nice.
Schlafly's- damn good beer and good company...minus the Dr. Seuss spoken word...
Rooster- OMG Best Breakie!
Crown Candy Kitchen- the Travel channel was right...mmmm...pastrami
Highlands Brewing- don't bother
The Pin- Up Bowl- classic bowling and a bar-great- but bring friends!

I went to City Museum and almost had a heart attack. No joke. I had to find a quite corner and have a moment because it was just so over whelming. It was by far the craziest and scariest thing I've EVER done. And I'm always crazy so I think that illustrates my point. If you ever have the chance, go. Seriously. Mind. Blowing.

St. Louis Arch

Back in CT, we find a happy dad..

a first timer that passed with flying colors...

and a Hooker blanket for a great big brother & soon-to-be-ex-landlord.

Sweet November...

2011-01-18T10:12:00.000-08:00

it got colder and we still had fun...

cider making- the Pierce way...

deep fried pickles...and anything else that fits in the fryer...

crazy red-heads...

mashed potato beer...thanks Eli's

renovations...

And then Fall came...

2011-01-17T09:55:00.000-08:00

which is great, beacause its one of my favorites. After beating myself up for a few weeks about a Halloween costume, everything went smoothly.

October was...

one last camping trip...on a frosty night

complete with coffee and ham...

decision making...

princesses...

and that inflatable-wacky-waving-arm guy...and Princess Lolly

September was full of...

2011-01-14T09:34:00.000-08:00

dirty, tan hippie feet at Zac Brown Band...

Alice in Chains...

camping in Barkhamsted...

making friends at Blues Traveler...

Samuel Adams...

and real life, but that's OK when life is awesome.

August also...

2011-01-13T09:17:00.000-08:00

...meant the first extended period of time away from CTA. The morning after the wedding, we returned to my parents and began the clean up. That quickly turned into a party of at least 30...complete with golf cart rides, tapping the keg (waste not), and divvying up the leftovers- all before 11AM. Kel and I had a long drive to Topsail Island, North Carolina with a stop over in Niantic to drop off CTA. After leaving the cleaning-up we stopped by Kel's for a mandatory jump in the pool and we were on our way. A little over 14 hours and 30 churches in the last 20 minutes later, we were on the beach. We spent the time lounging, eating, and baking in the sun. Perfect way to decompress from the craziness of the summer.

...is it summer again yet?

A snow day for wrapping up the summer...

2011-01-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

You would think a snow day would be the perefect excuse to actually get some things done- unless you're me. I woke up at 7, emailed my boss that in fact we would be closed, called and changed the automatic answering message (in my most amazing 7AM voice), texted my employees the good news, and called the local news to let them know that we were all staying home. Then, I went back to bed. Snow days are the equivalent of staying home sick- but the sick when you feel fine, but are contagious and must not do anything. At the very least, I'll catch you up to speed...or at least til the end of summer. August is easy because it consisted of the most epic wedding to date...at least until mine...Basically, there were too many amazing people and too many amazing photos to list here (and I'm being good and not using any of the pro's photos), but here are a few highlights:

So to sum up the Bryenton/ Pierce wedding, here are the points I'd like to make:

A lobster, a steak, & some pork for all 250 people
A hired helicopter to take ariel photos
An 80's hair band
It got shut down by the cops
My mom made everything she promised and more!
The best Hookers & bartenders money could buy
Beautiful weather for August 7th in New England-and I'm not just saying that!
An impressive gathering of awesome people
A loving couple that couldn't be happier

Congrats to my big brother and the newest Pierce.

Welcome Crystal...and good luck!

2011-01-06T16:21:00.001-08:00

I'm moving in. Yep. Its true.

omgomgomg.

Jump on in!

2011-01-06T07:58:00.000-08:00

We may be 6 days in, but there's always room for a new start. As promised, more is on its way and always a priority, unfortunately, its usually not at the top of the list. There's always something else that needs to be done, a new project to be tackled. Some call it 'living.' 2011 should prove to be the biggest and the best, as stressful and fun-filled as ever before, but as long as I, and hopefully you all, am surrounded by people I love and love me, then it will be tops.

As I mentioned, more IS on its way. Mostly thanks to this (notice the FastCompany-because I'm taking adult life seriously...):

And the wonderful geek that set it up for me to maximum photo and blog capabilities!

Here's what he got:

Even though he doesn't play...

The tree is naked,

And the sparkly NYE shoes are on the shelf...

So jump on in!

Hold your Breath....It won't be too long. Swears.

2010-10-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

Hi There.

Remember me?

I'll catch you up shortly on the wedding of the century (which took up most of August), September, and October.

Visual aides will be provided for kitchen updates and possible Fall shenanigans.

Don't give up on me now.

We've come too far.

July in Pictures

2010-08-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

July SO FAR. I still have a couple days...

I danced on the 4th...

I celebrated America with friends...

I was 50% of the cutest picture EVER...

and I went to Beer Fest sans a crap boyfriend plus a crazy pseudo cousin, a super awesome bf, a brother Nate, another brother Nate, a possible future roommate, a not-so-future sister, another pseudo cousin, and of course, Bender, in that order.

June in Pictures

2010-07-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

I saw Phish with Cta and Gombie.

I saw John Bulter Trio with Matt.

We went camping.

Crystal's grandmother gave her a satchel.

I met my protege.

May in Pictures

2010-07-29T21:22:00.000-07:00

I went to Minnesota for work.

I went camping.

I was 50% of the cutest picture ever.

My camera broke taking the best picture ever in Phillie.

I'm Backkkk (use a creepy voice to read that)

2010-07-28T20:17:00.000-07:00

So here's the latest and greatest.

Just a few days ago I was thinking to myself, "Hey! Maybe I'll actually have time to blog when I head to North Carolina for vacation." I guess I got my wish early.

I'm in the hospital. I have been admitted and am currently begrudgingly attached to an IV of Heparin.

Keep in mind, this is the super abridged version!

Almost exactly 49 months ago, I was admitted to this same hospital for the same problem. After four failed diagnoses by a shit doctor, I was finally starting to feel better after being unable to eat, walk, or be comfortable. A week after my initial pain, doctors discovered blood clots around my stomach. I was immediately put on a Heparin dip and then was taught to administer Lovenox shots to my stomach (which my aunt was later required to do because I'm a baby) and then started a Coumadin regimen for the next year. After a year, my hematologist and I discussed going off the the meds and monitoring my health, which I did.

Flash forward 3 years.

I have mild stomach cramps and thought I made the mistake of telling my mom. Knowing my history, she 'strongly encouraged' me to go to the doctor, i.e. 'Go or I'll be mad at you.' So I called up my hematologist and he made an appointment for a 'STAT Cat Scan.' This made me feel very important. I left work with the intentions of returning the same day and made my way down the five blocks to the hospital. I notified my super awesome boyfriend, Cta, and told him it was no big deal because I was just doing it to make my mom happy.

She was right about him, I should have known better.

He showed up and we waited.

We read Us Weekly.

We read Better Homes and Gardens.

He read Time.

I got blood drawn.

We waited.

We made the nurse uncomfortable with our politically incorrect ranting.

We waited.

I got a Cat Scan with color contrast.

I thought I peed myself (look it up-its nuts).

We waited.

And waited.

Finally the nurse came in and I asked if I could head out.

She got all serious and told me they couldn't reach my doctor.

She told me I had a blood clot.

Again.

I swore at the nurse.

I cried.

Cta had never seen me cry.

He took it well.

He's a trooper.

Then I got pissed.

I have things to do. I have a wedding in 10 days. I have miles to run, and jewelry to make, a dress to pick up, hair to be done, work to go to, and oh ya, NOT A HOSPITAL TO BE IN. Cta pulled the Jasper mind control thing and I calmed down. Things got back into perspective. I'm not going to die. I'm going to be here. Work isn't going to burn down. I will be up and running soon enough for the wedding and my week long vacation to Topsail Island. I have insurance and an absolutely amazing support network around me. At best, this is a major inconvenience and something that I'll learn to deal with.

I am loved and I will be fine.

Especially when I have best friends like this:

Summer Wheat...and no, its not beer.

2010-07-21T07:43:00.000-07:00

Some eye candy for a blazing hot Thursday.

Gotta love well done mixed media...

Summer Wheat

I'll be prepping for Mom's Margarita Madness this Saturday.

She won't drink Cuervo..

She loves her Patron...

and Don Julio...

and anything else pure agave.

At least I don't have to wonder where I get it from.

Awesomeness Squared.

2010-05-11T07:30:00.000-07:00

So, I disappeared.

I know, right?

You were all crying and stuff. But its for good reason.

I got happpppy.

And started taking my job slightly more seriously.

SLIGHTLY.

And I've been working on the raddest wedding ever.

EVER.

I've also been planning the best summer ever....with CTA, aka the most awesome person I've ever met. Possibly cooler than this guy:

...but I don't think CTA has quite as good of a round-house kick...but he can cook...

And I smell awesome too because I bought new perfume.

Go me.

Music Monday...Peter Mulvey

2010-04-12T06:45:00.000-07:00

Headed up to Pomfret last night to see Peter Mulvey at The Vanilla Bean with some of my favorites. I had never heard of the guy (and now don't understand how he isn't super famous), and it was super great. Comfortable space, amazing chili, and Sam's Summer Ale. It definitely didn't hurt that that he was super cute and can play the guitar. It was also excellent that there was this crazy guy in a sweater, turtleneck (I was in a tank), Coke-bottle glasses, and a gray afro, tweaked out on every person that even remotely got in his line of vision. Keep in mind that this guy was probably 70 and sitting in the back of the room and had no qualms about making his feelings known. And yes, I was sitting practically next to him. Good times indeed. And no, Kellx and I did not managed to keep ourselves quiet. It was too ridiculous. Wish I had taken pictures...or at least sketched him.

Went to this place

and saw this guy.

**Low point of the night--Matt wouldn't let us yell out 'Free Bird' like we're embarrassing or something...honestly....have you met me?

Wedding Wednesday...Thirst Quenchers

2010-04-09T06:29:00.000-07:00

Now, I don't condone getting sloppy at a wedding, but it doesn't hurt to have a beautiful and tasty cocktail! N & C are doing the outdoor thing and there are just so many ways to go! I love the country-vintage-mason-jar-goodness...paired with a stripey straw? Yes please! I'm envisioning a claw foot bathtub full of N&C's special blend from Avery's and of course, Steve from Hooker, serving Blondes!

Stripey Straws for a festive vintage feel from Green Wedding Shoes

Tubs & Jars from Green Wedding Shoes

(This is whats happening for N & C's day)

Vodka on Ice via Martha

Mason Jar Masterpiece from Martha

Drinks for a Crowd from Martha

Proposal Punch via Martha

Wedding Wednesday...The Shoes!

2010-04-08T06:31:00.000-07:00

Now, I'm definately an advocate for comfort, especially on your wedding day, but I'm having a hard time turning down some of these kicks for my big day. Just remember that if you want to wear gorgey heels for the ceremony and then go 'au naturel' for the reception, the length of your gown may disagree! I have never been a shoe girl-but I am now on the hunt for some serious Louboutins. I figure I could always use an extra inch.....or five!

Christian Louboutins via Green Wedding Shoes

More sparkly Louboutins via Green Wedding Shoes

Retro Red Green Wedding Shoes

Blazing in Blue Green Wedding Shoes

Pretty in Yellow Green Wedding Shoes

http://greenweddingshoes.blogspot.com/2009/01/inspiration-board-9-fresh-green-romance.html

http://www.artoflove.com/blog/weddings/jill-peter-091909-part-1/

Green with Envy via Green Wedding Shoes

Wedding Wednesday...So Succulent

2010-04-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

When I was little, I would always stab my fingernails

into the waxy and squishy leaves to make them pop and see the liquid trickle out of the

green flesh-and then get yelled at for destroying things. It was just so satisfying. It was the early 90's. Everyone had them. They may have actually been in macreme hangers (specifically at that hippie's house that my mom worked for, with all the turtles...but thats another story...). Actually, my fingertips still itch when I'm around succulents....popping them is just fun..like zits...but I digress.

I had never seen this type of greenery in wedding bouqets, centerpieces, or headwear until a few months ago, but I love it! They're are just so unexpected, and there's something to be said about them in the martial sense. I know there's some deep connection that's pretty obvious here. I'll be loose about it though, because I'm single and not super interested in depressing myself about the lack of my connection with someone...Now that I think about it, that wouldn't depress, I just don't feel like thinking hard. Anyway, succulents withstand arid climates nearly void of water (even I had a hard time killing them) and they handle hot sun and high temperatures, much like the trials and tribulations of marriage. Yet, they are moist and delicate inside and fragile to the touch...of a five years olds with fingernails...and I suppose husbands and wives don't like being sratched either..back to the wedding jazz:

Green Wedding Shoes

Centerpieces

Favors by Martha

Lastly, and most importantly, you can make tequila out of them, and every marriage or single person needs tequila.

Mom's fav: Patron.

And then there was that time she tried to turn down Jose shots at a wedding because she 'only drinks Patron...' I apparently come by it honestly...

and finally, Tila Tequila, giving tequila a bad rap since 1981

Wedding Wednesday...cranium decor

2010-04-06T01:30:00.000-07:00

I had never really considered such one-of-a-kind head pieces until I realized what a beautiful alternative they can be to a traditional veil....although I do love a birdcage...now I can't see getting married without one!

Is it taboo to wear one of these all on the regular?

Loboheme via Green Wedding Shoes

bethanylorelle

whichgoose.

birdcage veil via Green Wedding Shoes

Giant Dwarf

apezoppa

Mandizzle

kaang

Vintage Love

2010-04-05T09:16:00.000-07:00

In honor of my hop back on the wedding back wagon, I'll be posting my favs for weddings all week! Here are a few beautiful engagement session photos that could have been from days gone by.

A.) Where can I find a camera or photo program (and time!) so I can make these effects? and more importantly,

B.) Where can I find a super cute boy that'll love to take these shots with me one day?

...I sort feel like Judy Blume with B.)...Dear God, Its me Margaret.

Train Tracks

All photos via Green Wedding Shoes

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T17:28:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a day full of delicious food, friends, and family...well not delicious friends and family....unless....you know about....

... Zombie Jesus Day!

(Seriously not meaning to offend anyone! I love Jesus and his Dad and I think they have an awesome sense of humor, but I bet if they were zombies, they'd think their friends and family were delicious.)

Photo The Long Thread

John Butler Trio

2010-04-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

Just bought my tickets today to see these guys with Matt in June.

Everyone should be jealous of at least one part of that statement.

Let the Summer o' Fun begin.

John Butler Trio

Babka Day!

2010-04-02T15:15:00.000-07:00

Every year, on Good Friday, a lovely group of ladies that are very dear to my heart, gather at my mom's house for a few hours of egg cracking, kneading, and a lot of laughs. We roll out surprisingly large amounts of dough to make babka, a sweet bread that represents Easter to my Polish heritage. Filled with poppy seeds, sweetened cream cheese, or left plain, we eat it for weeks and months to come(after thawing it!).

April Fools!

2010-04-01T06:46:00.000-07:00

This was too funny not to share.

What doesn't seem right?

Is that the girl in pink's arse????

No dice, its the crease in the photographers arm.

Found here via here

Wedding Wednesday...the dress

2010-03-31T02:29:00.000-07:00

Some say its the 'most important detail,' others say that 'you'll only wear it once.' My brother's fiance was engaged on a Saturday and bought her dress on Wednesday. I say you 'just know,' and she just knew.

Here are a few of my favorite-mostly unexpected, and all incredibly beautiful.

I've dreamt about this dress since I saw it...

Josephine by Stephanie James Couture

Hilary designed the dress herself!

Tutu via Green Wedding Shoes

Dramatic & elegant

Twig & Honey Belts

Playful Pouf

Priscilla of Boston via Green Wedding Shoes

Amy Butler Designs

2010-03-30T08:19:00.000-07:00

I guess its time to buckle down and do some serious sewing! I can't resist Amy Butler's patterns. So bright and beautiful. Considering all this rain, I'm ready to pack up and head to a farm house in Kansas, where I can string bunting banners from the rafters and wear cowboy boots....although I bet my feet would sweat. Gross.

Super cute bags and things via Bandelle

Fabric Envy from Belsize Square

And check out her DIY ideas via Apartment Therapy

My only concern is that this is edging on sororities and pink and green Lilly Pulitzer. Don't get me wrong, I love bite size snacks at noon and flowers are super cute, but I think I might only wear such things in juxtaposition to my personality. I can't even fathom going there. Anyway, I'm just too mean and sarcastic to enter that world. After all, I don't want to end up shunned like the most rad person ever: Amanda over at MODG.

Solidarity sista.

I even think you're funnier than me.

Printing Making Thursdays

2010-03-20T16:22:00.000-07:00

Here's what I've been doing....at the talented Miss Deb's

Outdoor Spaces...

2010-03-02T09:30:00.000-08:00

Another project for Dad...too amazing.

Green Wedding Shoes

I've always dreamed of having an outdoor space like this....so badly...but living in New England, everything would get moldy & rot uber fast...like that couch I left by the fire until someone else moved it. Note the lack of motivation.

Not a great photo, but it was surprisingly difficult to find..check out this clip...explains said space in better detail. And its a kick ass movie.

Harriet the Spy

Kevin Kearns

2010-02-26T08:31:00.000-08:00

I'm in love with his work...reminds me of some early work I did with my mom's dry pastels, so light and soft..and out of production...

Don't I sound like a snob?

Now I'm ready for the beach...

Or the mountains...

And a nice sunset...

Kevin Kearns

L's Last Night Out

2010-02-25T05:25:00.000-08:00

Here's to my oldest and most Mommy-est friends. We celebrated her last night out in Boston before going back to work and her first night out as a mom...and why yes, she did feel super guilty...ox Laura & Liam! Check out her mom-tastic blog here!

Wedding Wednesday....Sweet Punk Rock Wedding

2010-02-24T05:28:00.000-08:00

I love Ginger brides!---especially when they're a little punk rock! There's just something about firey hair against a white dress...and how can you say no to sunflowers?!

I love the cupcakes and the earthy & vintage feel!

I do love Mason jars....

Green Wedding Shoes

Chad's Hooker Filled Birthday

2010-02-23T05:29:00.000-08:00

By far the coolest & nicest guy I know....

and my offical wedding date...

Michael Jackson enthusiast...

brewery renter out-er.

Happy Birthday Chad!

There was MJ playing...

Bender: The Official Unofficial Hooker Brewery Mascot

Nate pretending that he's works there

Rockin' Jarrod's stolen party shades...

*note to self* stop doing overtly cheesey faces

Nate & Rob: BP Champions

**UPDATE for Mom (who wants me to date Chad): Chad's Dad called him this morning to tell him how awesome I am. Ya, I'm that awesome apparently.

Insert Frank Sinatra reference here:

2010-02-15T11:55:00.000-08:00

So this is The Pearl.

Its in San Francisco.

I apparently need to rent (or buy-I'm ok with either) an big ol' red Cadillac convertible and head out there. And watch movie by the pool...and drink Side Cars...and be super rad....or hip...or whatever they said back then. The Cat's Pajamas maybe?

Wedding Saturday...You had me at Mariachi...

2010-02-13T09:16:00.000-08:00

This one is especially for Mom because she'll love the juxiposition of the spit string throat pics and a mariachi band. But honestly, who doesn't love a mariachi band?

I do love a good vintage suitcase...even when I carry it for 2 hours while walking around a Pennsylvania flea market...

Where can I get the International Mail envelopes???

And can I use them for everyday mail?

Vintage keys AND cigar boxes?! Too cute.

Thanks to Green Wedding Shoes

And a side note:

Q: Guess how much money I'm saving by switching to not dating a DB on his birthday?

A: A bundle!

The Plague

2010-02-10T05:45:00.000-08:00

So I've had the plague since last Monday. Here are some pictures. They really don't do it justice because my super nice Canon can't even bring itself to focus on the madness in my mouth. That's right, my tongue was orange...for 3 days...and no, I didn't eat orange things. Jerk Dr. Bentley (who almost killed me once, but was the only one on call) said that was normal. WTF?? NORMAL? He said "it was my tongue regrowing" or something. Bull. And then, there were chunks of taste bubs missing as the back. Just bloody holes. Gross. Take a gander at the red enflamed mess that is my throat. Ya, it hurts as bad as it looks. AKA, no swallowing. On the bright side, I didn't eat for a couple days so that cancelled out not going to the gym. Now, the throat is in check as well and the discolored/mangled tongue situation, but I have a sinus infection and haven't had a voice since Saturday. I talk all day at my job. Amen for texting. ox and good luck not catching the plague because its sooo not funs and it'll make you uber sad.

Happy Snow Day, even though it isn't snowing anymore.

P.S. How much do you love my spit strings????

Eat it?

2010-02-08T06:48:00.000-08:00

I love this because we've all been there...and I'm a fat kid at heart.

SF Weekly via Swiss Miss via A Cup Of Jo

(just giving credit...)

Sue Rubira

2010-02-07T09:44:00.000-08:00

How awesome, creepy, beautiful, disturbing are these?! I'd love to see them up close and personal. Most of the talented Sue Rubira's work is unidentifiable as a painting.

Because we all should....

2010-02-06T11:51:00.000-08:00

Karl Hebert is the man.

Books, Keys, & Teal

2010-02-05T09:33:00.000-08:00

Ok. Again, even with the lack of perspective boyfriend, real boyfriend, fiance, or significant other, I have decided on teal and mustard yellow....as of late. And I was thinking of using vintage books, specifically beatnik books, as favors. Although I do love them as center pieces as well.... and invitations....especially when combined with skeleton keys and teal....

Book Center Pieces

Save the Dates

Book Invitations

Kate MacDowell

2010-02-04T08:57:00.000-08:00

Marinate on this:

"In my work this romantic ideal of union with the natural world conflicts with our contemporary impact on the environment. These pieces are in part responses to environmental stressors including climate change, toxic pollution, and gm crops. They also borrow from myth, art history, figures of speech and other cultural touchstones. In some pieces aspects of the human figure stand-in for ourselves and act out sometimes harrowing, sometimes humorous transformations which illustrate our current relationship with the natural world. In others, animals take on anthropomorphic qualities when they are given safety equipment to attempt to protect them from man-made environmental threats. In each case the union between man and nature is shown to be one of friction and discomfort with the disturbing implication that we too are vulnerable to being victimized by our destructive practices."

Kate MacDowell

Kite Session

2010-02-03T09:31:00.000-08:00

Suspenders + Kite + Canyon= Super Freakin' Cute

Green Wedding Shoes

Frenchie Foodie Pillows

2010-02-02T08:34:00.000-08:00

Good enough to eat...or sleep on.

Bonjour Mon Coussin

Reading Light

2010-02-01T12:59:00.000-08:00

And I thought I was cool for collecting books. Next project? I think not, unless I develop OCD and aren't afraid of lighting things on fire. Super rad none the less, and thats coming from a line of librarians....

MN*LS via Soolip

American Gods

2010-01-31T09:00:00.000-08:00

While being a super awesome blog stalker, I found this amazing woman, who is reading this amazing book.

Love love love it.

"I can believe things that are true and I can believe things that aren't true and I can believe things where nobody knows if they're true or not. I can believe in Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny and Marilyn Monroe and the Beatles and Elvis and Mister Ed. Listen - I believe that people are perfectible, that knowledge is infinite, that the world is run by secret banking cartels and is visited by aliens on a regular basis, nice ones that look like wrinkledy lemurs and bad ones who mutilate cattle and want our water and our women. I believe that the future sucks and the future rocks and I believe that one day White Buffalo Woman is going to come back and kick everyone's ass. I believe that all men are just overgrown boys with deep problems communicating and that the decline in good sex in America is coincident with the decline in drive-in movie theaters from state to state. I believe that all politicians are unprincipled crooks and I still believe they are better than the alternative. I believe that California is going to sink into the sea when the big one comes, while Florida is going to dissolve into madness and alligators and toxic waste. I believe that antibacterial soap is destroying our resistance to dirt and disease so that one day we'll all be wiped out by the common cold like the Martians in War of the Worlds. I believe that the greatest poets of the last century were Edith Sitwell and Don Marquis, that jade is dried dragon sperm, and that thousands of years ago in a former life I was a one-armed Siberian shaman. I believe that mankind's destiny lies in the stars. I believe that candy really did taste better when i was a kid, that it's aerodynamically impossible for a bumblebee to fly, that light is a wave and a particle, that there's a cat in a box somewhere who's alive and dead at the same time (although if they don't ever open the box to feed it it'll eventually just be two different kinds of dead), and that there are stars in the universe billions of years older than the universe itself. I believe in a personal god who cares about me and worries and oversees everything I do. I believe in an impersonal god who set the universe in motion and went off to hang with her girlfriends and doesn't even know that I'm alive. I believe in an empty and godless universe of casual chaos, background noise, and sheer blind luck. I believe that anyone who says sex is overrated just hasn't done it properly. I believe that anyone who claims to know what's going on will lie about the little things too. I believe in absolute honesty and sensible social lies. I believe in a woman's right to choose, a baby's right to live, that while all human life is sacred there's nothing wrong with the death penalty if you can trust the legal system implicitly, and that no one but a moron would ever trust the legal system. I believe that life is a game, that life is a cruel joke, and that life is what happens when you're alive and that you might as well lie back and enjoy it."

Altar

2010-01-30T09:49:00.000-08:00

I love this idea. I'll have to get my dad to get started on one of these. As of right now, I want a super vintage field wedding and this would be perrrfect. Super cute for the actual ceremony AND for fun pictures after of all your guests....I'm a sucker for a photo booth- of any kind!

Repurposed wood + yellow dresser= LOVE

...and I might need one just for my room!

Green Wedding Shoes

Old Money Corp.

2010-01-29T12:50:00.000-08:00

My grandmother always collected coins and claims she still does. The grandmother on the other side always gave me coins from those infomericals. My high school graduation gift was an oversized buffalo nickel. I never lived that one down. Needless to say I've always been surrounded by the metal stuff, but I never had any interest...until now. The repurposing of something that has touched so many hands, and lives, is something I see as remarkable-especially when you do it like these ladies.

Old Money Corp. via Knack

Fake Snow

2010-01-28T11:43:00.000-08:00

Even though it was almost 60 and rainy on Monday in Connecticut and 40 and so sunny that I had the windows down in the car on Tuesday, I still love these snowy photos. I wouldn't mind a few more days of the white stuff, but I am so ready for the best summer everrrr.

**UPDATE It's snowing...somehow I feel responsible. Go me!

Neil Atherton via Luphia

Wedding Wednesday...Anthropologie & Steam Punk Weddings

2010-01-27T09:17:00.000-08:00

So I'm all over this vintage wedding thing. Even though I don't even have a boyfriend, I'm thinking I should start collecting treasures to utilize and scatter on tables and around the wedding on my big day that is not even a glimmer in my future. Especially if I tell a guy I like that I'm collecting for your wedding. I can't think of a better way to scare off a perspective husband....Crank up the crazyyyyy. Anyway, here are some super cute ideas:

Vintage Weights

Collections of bottles & birdies

Bike & Bath Tub

Moss & Typewriter

Steam Punk Hair Piece

Vintage Glass & Bulbs

Abandoned Car Session

2010-01-26T07:48:00.000-08:00

How beautiful are these!?

Even though I'm no longer with the super car guy, I can still appreciate these vintage car photos. Even without reading too much into the juxtaposition of ruins and abandonment to love and marriage, the photos are simply lovely!

Check more of Kelli's work from Touch of Grey at Green Wedding Shoes!

Snapatorium

2010-01-25T08:52:00.000-08:00

I just love Snapatorium.

Amazing old photos that can be yours for just a small fee.

***But for realsies...I was going to post a funny bathing suit picture, a drinking picture, and a gay interest picture say something witty along the lines of "for all your drinking in bathing suits to vintage gay interest photography needs...." and the two photos I picked out for the two previous items were the only two photos in gay interests. I don't know what that says about my sense of humor....

Mexican Hat and Sneakers

Dr. Pepper Drinkers

farmhouse wares

2010-01-24T08:30:00.000-08:00

I truly never thought that I'd get into 'farm ware' or anything that reminded me of the old house I grew up in...but I find myself so atracted to the simplicity and often kitschy sense of style.

Check out farmhouse's reproductions of the finer things:

Wire Swim Baskets

Bird Dish

Glass Canning Jars

My new old bling

2010-01-23T04:34:00.000-08:00

Just a little taste of my lastest find: bag' o' goodies...

Two gallon bags of random vintage finds from Oregon= One Happy Girl

Keep an eye out for my new shop The Last August Rose (There's not much in it yet!)

Royal Mail

2010-01-22T04:33:00.000-08:00

Here's my lastest arrival from BPS. I didn't receive any cards in November or December, but maybe there just a postal strike happening somewhere and they'll come and it'll magnificent! This one is from England...hence the Royal Mail...which N had to explain to me..because I was all mads that it didn't say where it was from....

Aqua Gems

2010-01-21T08:57:00.000-08:00

I'm in love this this color. No matter what time of year it is, it reminds me of Aruba's beaches and sandy toes...or if it cold out...melting ice and frosted window panes.

Evreaux by Bijoux d'Odalisque

oh so faux pendant by treasurefield

Biodome Ring by JuJu by Sarah

Aquamarine Ring by MSO Joies

Wedding...Around the World

2010-01-20T07:06:00.000-08:00

Little cultural touches, even if they aren't from your own background, can whisk you and your guests away to another world for your big day. Color, scents, and tastes all make the experience more special and make it a day no one will ever forget.

Around the world from Green Wedding Shoes

On my walk...

2010-01-19T05:06:00.000-08:00

Itty Bitty Project

2010-01-18T09:19:00.000-08:00

People need to stop and smell the roses. They also ned to watch where you step. This clever project is all about seeing life from a different perspective and minding the details.

Little People- a tiny street art project

Postcards

2010-01-17T07:54:00.000-08:00

Here's my latest postacrd for the BPS, headed to California. I included ample glitter and sunshine since its been frigid and windy here!

Within the last year or so I've discovered vintage postcards. I want to decoupage the top of a coffee table with them and pretend I've been to all the fabulous places. I once passed up an opportunity to pick up some amazing finds in Rhode Island. Never again...never again....

Everyone could use a little more kitsch in their life!

Postcard from Sharon Foster Vintage

Check out these vintage inspired invites!

From the fine folks at Green Wedding Shoes

Steel Furniture

2010-01-16T05:24:00.000-08:00

I'll need one of these when I have that killer studio apartment in Boston...or overlooking Venice beach..or sooner....

Twenty Gauge Design Milk

Climbing Shoes

2010-01-15T07:19:00.000-08:00

I'm not a shoe girl...but I will own these one day...if only to admire...because I'd fall over....

I am apparently the one and only non 'shoe girl' out there but even I would buy a bunch of overly priced and overly uncomfortable shoes for this.