Fabulous Friday

This weekend, I'm going to see country crooner Brad Paisley in concert, out to brunch with a friend, and hopefully penciling in some good shopping...It has been way too long since I've treated myself to some new clothes! Have a fabulous Friday my friends!

image/ffffound

Send Me An Accordion

I love these accordion cards! I've always been a big fan of holiday cards. My mom has gotten in the habit of putting aside the collection of holiday cards our family receives for me to view when I come home to visit.

I think this accordion style is a fantastic option for a new baby or a wedding, when you have so many pictures you want to share! This is a simple and tasteful way to celebrate your life with friends and family. I find this a great alternative to simply forwarding an online album, which while efficient, is often impersonal.

images/goodstock

Lent

I'm a product of 8+ years of Catholic school. As such, I've attended many an Ash Wednesday mass in my day, although since I graduated college, I've been a bad church-goer and missed this middle of the week mass, and the accompanying ashes on the forehead.

This year, I've been contemplating what to give up for the 40 days of Lent. Here's what I've been considering...
1. Coffee. Quite a challenge, too tough I think. As an elementary school teacher, I truly it to be my perkiest self so early in the morning.
2. Chocolate. I'm a chocoholic. I love chocolate, especially dark chocolate. In the form of candy bars, cookies, hot cocoa, basically anything rich I can devour, I will indulge.
3. Dining out. A fast way to save a LOT of money...but it would really inter with my social calendar.

Thus, I've decided to absolve from take out, fast food, and anything related. Usually once or twice a week I order thai food or pho, it's cheap, easy, and quite convenient since there are like 5 great places within a 5 block radius of my apartment. I'm hoping this will contribute to my healthy living plan - which supports my half marathon training schedule. Let the 40 days begin!

image/cookingwithfriendsclub

A New Hobby

I'm pretty excited today because I just joined a weekly photography club! I have always love, love, loved taking pictures. I am a total tourist in foreign destinations, my camera is either in my hands or glued to my side. Yes, I'm a cliche, but I don't care, I savor the results once the trip has long since ended, and all I'm left with are albums full of lovely vacation moments. My friend Lyssa invited me photography club she was a member of, and I am so thankful to have this creative outlet. Every week there's a new assignment or "challenge" to tackle with film. This week is macro (otherwise known as zoomed in). And never fear, I'll be posting some of my shots in the near future. image/antiroom

Future Decor

My future home will have a staircase like this...Bright with lots of light, and a plethora of photographs!

Some may call this look unorganized, cluttered, even haphazard, but I find it a lovely tribute to a lifetime of memories. In my apartment I already have a growing collection of odd sized black and silver frames featuring white matting mounted black & white pictures. To me, that look this look is simple, elegant, and timeless!

image/ohappyday

Life

Sometimes, when our schedules get too full, and the morning seems too hectic, and there just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day...I think we just need a little reminder like this. I've certainly found myself here before. This usually precedes my urge to divide and conquer and attack every project I've begun with enthused gusto, or the alternative simplify...throw out the old and prepare for the new. 2009 already feels like a year of that, trying new things, saying YES more often, and just being happy everyday. image/dazeychic-etsy

Lazy Cat

My parents cat Cody has been bunking with me for the past 2 weeks, and I think he's becoming...a wee bit portly...shall we say?

Since my apartment is considerably smaller than my parents house, much less exercise is required daily for Cody to receive his basic needs. Seeing as his main trek around my place requires no stairs, and a pathway no longer than 15 feet per stretch that consists of the integral triangle of food-pillow-litter box, I'd say Cody has put on a good pound or so since he's been at my place.

I'm sure my mom will flip when she sees her tiny little boy brought home a rotund ball of fluff.

image/paulhatfield

Just Dance

This reminds me of this youtube video I posted a while back. What would you think if you found yourself surprised by an impromptu dance routine in a public place?



video/youtube
via mrsbliss

Peachy Keen

Love these fruity phrase note cards by VivaLaViolette.

image/etsy

Weekend Bliss

It's Friday! Today has been a very productive week in spite of being sick. I'm hoping to kick this cold/sore throat/cough "thing" I have been battling once and for all this weekend!

Looking forward to a weekend of spontaneity, does anyone have any exciting plans?

image/ffffound

Brunching

Brunch is my favorite meal of the day. Not quite breakfast, not quite lunch - but BRUNCH! The in-between meal that is filling, fabulous, and typically follows a morning of sleeping in.

I'm going to attempt this recipe tomorrow, Sour Cream Peach Waffles, for an extra special brunch treat!

image/hotoffthegarlicpress

February Babies

February must be the month for birthdays! Of all the months of the year, I have many, many friends who are February babies. Happy birthday TODAY to Sarah & Carrie! Hope you have a fabulous birth day and night!

image/flickr

In the City

I love the hustle and bustle of the city; the fact that your bakery, restaurant, grocer, and convenience store lie just around the corner. I'm particularly fond of my own city - Seattle, but other favorites include New York City, San Francisco, Amsterdam, and London. I am drawn to these whimsical, cartoon cityscapes by matteart. The busy bustle of Damrak Street in Amsterdam, and the chaotic jungle that is New York City. Would be a fun print to hang in a child's room or in a guest bathroom. His work seems the kind that renders more unseen details the longer you stare at it. images/etsy via ffffound

Reader Bug

Read any good books lately?

I'm polishing off Netherland, one of the NY Times top picks for 2008, debating whether or not to open up a recommendation from my mom, The Tortilla Curtain, and of course still dabbling with the 4th book of the Twilight series, Breaking Dawn...

In the meantime looking to add some other "must reads" to my goodreads list, any suggestions? I'm welcome to recommendations for children's books as well, after all, the teacher is always on the prowl for another great read!
Link
image/ffffound

Blue Skies + Pink Balloons

Feeling much better today, thanks for all your healthy thoughts!In the mood for a smile? Check out this creative Brooklyn Bridge proposal over at My Spinning Wheels. Blue skies + pink balloons + surprise = one lovely adorable proposal!

image/myspinningwheels
via thecitysage

Under the Weather

Feeling bleh...sore throat, achy, sick all over...sadly, I'm not in much of a mood for blogging my friends. Send me your healthy vibes! See you tomorrow (hopefully). image/lilbee

Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day was fantastic...
Flowers, candy, dinner, and spending time with the one I love. I hope your Valentine's Days were just as lovely!

image/hostessblog

Oh Oh Organic

Two of my favorite scents are lavender and citrus. Lavender to relax and calm, citrus to liven and awake. I recently discovered Pangea Organics, an organic bodycare company that brings my two favorite scents into one bottle: Pyranees Lavender and Cardamom (yes, I realize the citrus isn't built into the name, but trust me the scent is there).

I received this scent as part of a gift set which is as "green," organic, and earth friendly as they come. Forget the cellophane, my gift was wrapped in a cardboard container with shredded recycled paper filler. Now when I take a shower, I really feel like I'm being green!

image/pangeaorganics

LOVE

Celebrate the love in your life, whatever that may be!
Happy Valentine's Day

Be Happy

Oh it's Friday, and the beginning on a busy weekend. The weekend holds so many things, Valentine's Day, President's Day, the extra-long weekend...so many things to be happy about! Enjoy!

image/brooklynbride

Breakfast in Bed

Wouldn't this be a sweet way to wake up on Valentine's Day?...Make that any day!


Meet The Duchess

I just rented Keira Knightley's latest flick - The Duchess, new to DVD. The movie was pretty good, an interesting period piece about a historical character - The Duchess of Devonshire - I knew nothing about.

My favorite part was the costumes! The Duchess wore intricate, elaborate gowns, topped with feathery peacock hats and up-dos of bouffant curls. I've always wondered would've been like to have lived in another time. The clothes, transportation, and attitudes (especially the engagement between men and women) are utterly foreign to the lives we lead in 2009. I think it would be fun to live the "Duchess" life for a day!

images/justjared
image/isuwanee

Tradition with a Twist

Typically, I'm not a bread pudding person...that is, until I saw this recipe via DesignCrush. However, bread pudding is quite possibly my grandpa's favorite food of all time. This staple dessert often frequents family gatherings, and I usually avoid it like the plague.

However, I think this twist on the traditional BP is worth a try - Banana Coconut Bread Pudding with Bailey's sauce...sounds pretty good doesn't it?

image/thekneadforbread
via designcrush

Lively

Another fab photo shoot of Gossip Girl's #1 - Blake Lively. I don't know how this glam girl manages to look so sophisticated and chic at only 21, but Vogue manages to capture her glamorous old world style. I think it has something to do with the long blond hair...

image/vogue

Barcelona

I'm not usually a Woody Allen fan, but I did enjoy Vicky Cristina Barcelona. It is a great insight into the sights, sound, and personality of Barcelona.

I visited Barcelona in 2005 with 2 friends, and unfortunately the Spanish city didn't make a great first impression on me. We had hoped for a vacation from our vacation - a few days sunning on the beach, and left disgruntled after 3 days of straight rain. We did however, have an opportunity to tour the amazing Gaudi architecture, which this movie effectively captured.

Now, after seeing this film, I want to go back, devour some paella, take a stroll down through Parque Guell, and make that second impression a lasting one...

image/imdb

I Heart You

The perfect remedy for my sore throat.
P.S. Don't forget the marshmallows!

In the Stacks

I've heard people say before that one of their favorite scents is the pages of an ancient library book. The romantic musk, the age and wisdom that has saturated the pages over the years...

This person is not me.
If this person is you, this might be right up your alley...

The new perfume, In the Library, smells like "a signed first edition of a favorite novel, Russian and Moroccan leather bindings, worn cloth and a hint of wood polish." It my not have a very sexy name, but it might just be enough to bring out the book smarts in your novel guy.

via smitten
image/teamsugar

Will You Be My Valentine?

I think adults often tend to forget the thrill Valentine's Day holds for children. My students are bouncing off the walls in anticipation of our upcoming Valentine's Day party. The thought of unlimited candy and sugary treats at school is excitement enough!

For the past few days, I've been trying to think of clever, creative Valentines to make for my students for our upcoming Valentine's Day party. I love these quilled Valentines by decor-extraordinaire Martha Stewart. If you find that you aren't artistically inclined, there's even a step-by-step guide to help you along the way.

image/marthastewart

It's Official!

I'm headed to Europe this summer with my family! We'll have 2 weeks in Italy and a week in Croatia. It is going to be fantastic, I can't wait!

image/howard

Mazel Tov

This weekend I have a friend from out of town visiting starting Friday, I'm off to a batmitzvah on Saturday, and I'm hoping a relaxing Sunday...

Happy Weekend!

image/ffffound

J'Taime, J'Taime, J'Taimer

The minute I saw this card...I was reminded of this picture.
Oh, j'taime, j'taime, j'taimer!

I've always wanted to go to Paris with a boy, I'm hoping that will happen sometime in my lifetime!

image1/lepapierdesigns
image2/rodneysmith

Confection

This gown is ethereal, feminine, and dreamily romantic. Not exactly my style, but lovely all the same. It reminds me of a decadent wedding cake confection. The delicate detail of layer upon layer, I can just imagine how it would twirl and cascade during a couple's first dance. Something about it, maybe just it's unique silhouette is genuinely appealing to me.

via daisychain
image/jcrew

Trendy Fruit

For the record: I have loved pomegranates LONG before they were trendy! Long before the days pom-tinis or POMwonderful juice, my family actually had a pomegranate bush in our front yard when we lived in California. My mom used to cut open the pomegranate for us with a huge kitchen knife, and we'd sit at the kitchen counter, picking apart this complicated fruit, the sticky juices running down our fingers. It's funny now looking back as pomegranates seem to be starring in the food world these days! In grade school, my mom would often pack a pomegranate wedge in my lunch, and when I'd pull it out to indulge, people would stare at me in bewilderment. I guess times change... image/maryruffle

What A Hoot

Will you be mine?
image/spaceoddities

Natural Valentine

Talk about finding love in nature, when cut lengthwise, these Calimyrna figs look like little hearts! A sweet complement to a selection of savory cheeses. A perfect start to a low key Valentine's Day dinner.

image/marthastewart

J'Adore Crepes

I adore crepes. I love crepes. I wish I could click my heels or wiggle my nose and magically appear in Paris. I found this recipe in my latest issue of Martha Stewat living, and thought...ohhh, that sounds AMAZING!

Bananas Foster Crepes
Ingredients

Serves 4
  • 1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup dark-brown sugar
  • 2 ripe bananas, cut into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of coarse salt
  • Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup dark rum
  • 4 small basic crepes
  • 1/2 cup creme fraiche or vanilla ice cream

Directions

  1. Warm butter and sugar in a saute pan over medium heat until butter melts, 1 to 2 minutes. Add bananas, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and vanilla, and cook, stirring, for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove pan from heat. Add rum. Return to heat. If using a gas stove, tip pan away from you carefully until the vapors from the rum ignite. (Or light with a long match.) Cook until flames stop, about 1 minute. Divide bananas among crepes; reserve sauce in pan.
  2. Fold each crepe in half, then fold in half again. Drizzle crepes with reserved sauce, and top with creme fraiche or ice cream. Serve immediately.
image+recipe/marthastewart

Cheer Up

I had a very challenging day on Friday, and came home that night feeling defeated, frustrated, and down on myself. I called my boyfriend, who listened to me vent and voice my frustrations for a good 30 minutes plus. When he arrived at my apartment, he brought a handful of Milky Way Darks (my favorite candy bar) and a carton of cookie dough ice cream, which was so sweet and thoughtful, it completely cheered me up. We spent the evening vegging out, watching some of my fave TV shows I'd saved on DVR. Today, I feel a lot better... image/peachtree

Burn, Burn, Burn

This Jack Kerouac quote is one of my all time favorite quotes.

The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn, like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars." -Jack Kerouac

I find it incredibly uplifting and inspiring to never settle, and keep reaching for those dreams. I'm loving the artful presentation of this print of the quote by isuwanee.

image/isuwanee