me-machine

Moving Along

2012-01-11T08:53:00.000-08:00

Just dropping in to leave a quick note.

As I'm sure anyone has noticed who has visited this blog in a while, I haven't posted on it.

Truth is, I've been putting off writing this post for a while because it makes me a little sad. I really enjoyed writing about all of the things that I like and things I thought you would like too but I'm going to be focusing my attention on my other blog, Keep Smiling, for the forseeable future. Please check it out and stay in touch! Thanks for reading

In case you were wondering:

a) my other blog is about rennovating our 1917 Victorian house

b) I DO know how to operate a staple gun

Stuffed

2011-12-07T20:43:00.000-08:00

A few of my favorite things for stuffing stockings, topping off the perfect gift or just for fun. All $10 or less. Boom.

A fun banner for the Francophile in your life. Or the person who loves banners in your life.

For the list maker with the smart mouth.

Memorable phrases from The Big Lebowski for the friend who abides.

Awesome craft-themed nail transfers to let everyone know that you're

A) Good at crafts

B) Good at doing your nails

A cute-to-the-max curious cat zine.

Your New Boyfriend stickers. Give the gift of laughter and very, very creepy mustaches.

When In Rome

2011-12-07T10:15:00.000-08:00

What a nice little print from Rebekka Seale

Nerd Boyfriend

2011-12-06T09:34:00.000-08:00

For the nerd boyfriends/husbands and the girls who love them (and want to buy them things).

Nerd Boyfriend

Each nerd comes complete with his own roundup of nerd-wear. How neat!

Also, don't forget to visit the companion site, Nerd Girlfriend.

via

Candy Lights

2011-12-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

It's no secret to people who know me that I love lights. I mean LOVE them. I go just a teensy bit overboard during the holidays but hey, it's once a year, give me a break! So natch, when I saw this candy lights DIY by Brittany from The House That Lars Built (Seriously, is there anything this girl can't do?) I just about died and went straight to twinkly light heaven. The best part? I think they actually look even better when they're not lit which is a rarity for Christmas lights.

Your supplies:

Your steps:

et Voila!

Adorbs.

Get the full instructions over at Oh Happy Day

The Thought

2011-12-05T09:43:00.000-08:00

Don't have enough moo-la to buy your friend a custom fixed gear bike but want to show them that you at least thought about it?

From Partners & Spade, this little box will be mailed to your friend for 99 cents. Complete with packaging and a polaroid of "any overpriced item" in their store. Including that bike...

This $1800 model party boat

Or these $45 wooden "table stabilizers"

Thoughts?

Is it really the thought that counts?

Would you be pleased as punch to get a polaroid in a box?

Peter Pan

2011-11-29T09:21:00.000-08:00

I believe I have lamented over my love of the Peter Pan collar on here before. So cute, so sweet so...ironically Wendy. But whatevs. I keep seeing little add-on collars here and there that just kind of sit on top of your shirt and thinking to myself, "Dang, that's cute but wouldn't it get moved around and what if your shirt's neck is just a little too big for it?" So, as cute as they were I never put any of them on here until now. Kind of. See, this isn't just an add-on Peter Pan collar, this is an add-on Peter Pan dickie!

They are sooo cute and I think they would work so well with sweaters this winter! In fact, I think you should all buy two or three and then we'll just all walk around being cute for the next two or three months. Whadaya' say?

from Nauticoco

Just Because

2011-11-27T18:49:00.000-08:00

Just because I love you all so much and I want nothing more than for you to be happy.

Cats in Clothes

Heather Mattoon

from this sale

Giant Flowers

2011-11-23T08:45:00.000-08:00

Look at me! I haven't even gotten all of my Christmas decorations up and I'm already thinking about how sad and empty the house looks when they're gone. Conan says that he thinks it's nice when everything comes down and you get a fresh start in January but personally, I would prefer to just keep the decorations going. I think these beautiful paper flowers from The House That Lars Built might do the trick.

P.S. If you're feelin' extra crafty and have some giant paper laying around, you can make them using Brittany's instructions found here.

Courting Candle

2011-11-21T08:38:00.000-08:00

File this under, "Well if that isn't just the neatest thing!?"

A "Courting Candle" I spied over at Sundance.

Apparently, parents would pull out a length of the wax, light it and when it got to the cut, smooch time was dunzo. Every three inches gets you about an hour of burn time and they come in a few different lengths.

There's 60 Hour

48 hour

and

80 hours for when you just gotsta get your court on.

Neat, huh?

Pretty Please

2011-11-17T11:18:00.000-08:00

Just some pretty things that I would like to have just magically appear in my house.

Bell, Display Dome, Ring

Silver & Gold

2011-11-16T10:52:00.000-08:00

Don't want to plunk down the dough for a fancy, new holiday dress?

Why not just dress up your shoes with these clips from Madewell?

They come in lots of colors including my favorites, silver and gold.

I think they would look great at the very bottom of an all black outfit.

Chocolate

2011-11-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

I love chocolate just as much (more than) the next person but these bars from Mary & Matt might just be too, too pretty to eat.

Might.

I said might.

Strawberry Bar

Salted Caramel Bar

Neopolitan Bar

Dark Bar

Kitties

2011-11-15T10:12:00.000-08:00

If someone bought me one of these shirts/walked up to me wearing one of these shirts I would be their best friend. Just sayin'

from Kitties & Bullshit

Coast for the Host

2011-11-15T09:43:00.000-08:00

I know I've said it once (or twice) and I'll say it again.

I think coasters would make a really nice hostess gift.

Maybe it's just me with my insane fear of watermarks on things but I would be thrilled to get any of these beautiful bamboo coasters from Decoy Lab.

New Year

2011-11-14T09:31:00.000-08:00

A brand new year is fast approaching and kittens or no, calendars make a nice, thoughtful, useful gift.

Here are a few that I wouldn't mind unwrapping.

This one would look real nice in a frame...in my kitchen.

This one would look super pretty in an office.

I've had my eye on this calendar for a year now. So clever! Can you tell what month it is?

This one would be perfect for a kid's room or maybe just an adult who likes really cute things, no?

Which one is your favorite?

Love/Hate

2011-11-14T08:16:00.000-08:00

Me thinks these totes from Robert Ryan might get a reaction.

Maybe.

What do you think?

Would you so boldly proclaim your love for something someone else loathes?

Genius

2011-11-10T20:28:00.000-08:00

Well if this isn't just the best idea ever.

Anthropologie's new animated e-cards come along when you buy the sweet ornament that's in them.

You can get a...

Cute clock

An even cuter turtle

Warm, fuzzy mittens

Or my favorite, a white stag!

What a fun way to send a sweet gift!

So smart I wish I would've thought of it myself!

Kitten Covers

2011-11-10T11:39:00.000-08:00

Truth circle, guys.

A long time ago I had a job that I just utterly could not stand and every morning when I got to work and felt really sad and awful I would sit down, pull up google image search, type in kittens and just let the good times roll. It's not that I'm having a bad day today but I'm sure out there somewhere, someone probably is. For you, my friend, this awesome tumblr.

The Kitten Covers

: )

Fancy Schmancy

2011-11-10T11:01:00.000-08:00

Who says you gotta' get out the good china if you want to have a nice party?

Just throw down some parchment paper, crinkle it up a little and grab a marker!

Label your ~~stinky~~ fancy cheeses and tiny pickles and the like.

Become instant hit.

Humbly accept comparisons to Martha Stewart. Etc, etc.

from Joy the Baker

Snowflakes

2011-11-10T10:52:00.000-08:00

Well, believe it or not but just two nights ago we had our first snow here in good ol' Kansas. It only lasted for about an hour but it was so pretty. The flakes were gigantic! Kind of makes me wish I had these lights from Terrain so I could have snow all of the time.

Kind of also makes me wish I lived in a more well insulated home but, whadaya' gonna do?

Pretty One

Pretty Two

Schoolhouse

2011-11-09T10:04:00.000-08:00

Schoolhouse Electric, the company that brought you every light you've ever wanted but couldn't really justify spending that much money on has now started selling other stuff. The best part? There's some stuff in there that won't break the bank. Here are my favorite budget friendly things from their awesome new shop!

Awesome toothbrushes (would be great for guests!) $6

A Topographic Map with the perfect, muted colors $40

Striped Candles! These would make a great hostess gift. $24

Make An Exit

2011-11-09T09:28:00.000-08:00

Like any good young lady I have already started fantasizing about what I'm going to wear on New Year's Eve and the one trend I keep coming back to is this one. I really like dresses with the details on the back. It's like, "Hey, I'm wearing this totally normal, nice dress." and them BAM! The back's all awesome! I like that element of surprise.

Here are a few of my current faves including one or two more modest but no less hot ones.

1. This dress is so gorgeous it would make you stand up taller all night.

2. For the more daring, this one is simple and perfect.

3. I just like how this dress has a heart cut out.

4. Another really understated dress that just pops when you get to the back. Pop!

Just Wondering

2011-11-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

What do you guys think of those old accordian style coat racks?

Here's the deal. We need a coat rack like yesterday!

Every year around this time I start looking for one feverishly and I come up empty handed. It's going to go in a pretty narrow space and I want it to be sturdy enough to hold our guests' coats but I just can't find anything that sticks.

Lately these have been on my mind a lot. Could it be this simple?

What do you think?

Top from Every Eskimo

Bottom from Flickr

Tossed

2011-11-08T08:25:00.000-08:00

These pictures of Mischa Hollenbach and his daughter Odi (what a cute name, btw) over at the Selby made me smile. Hopefully they'll do the same for you.

Don't you miss being small enough to get tossed around?

Penguin

2011-11-08T07:10:00.000-08:00

In the prettiest iPhone case since this iPhone case category I'm going to nominate this bad boy by Cassia Beck:

Little Penguin book spines all in a row!

Might make a lovely gift for someone who has an iPhone.

And an iPhone might make a lovely gift for someone who doesn't have one (ahem...me).

Just sayin'.

Decorative Quotes

2011-11-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

I am in love with this idea from Katie Did for hanging quotes as decorations.

It's so fun and it looks so pretty! Bonus: it costs virtually nothing.

You could use favorite lines from songs, plays or movies!

You could even have a pre-party party to cut out all of the letters!

And even cooler?

Brittany from The House That Lars Built used the idea for a Peter Pan themed party!

Second star to the left and straight on til morning!

How cute?

Painted Pants

2011-11-07T07:28:00.000-08:00

It's a shame that it looks like the cold weather has finally gotten settled here in Kansas as that means my pants will be firmly shoved down in a pair of boots for the next four months or so otherwise, I would so totally be color blocking an old pair of pants or two.

Check out the DIY from Honestly...WTF?

FYI: Above is the shee-shee, fancy pants pair. Down there is the DIY pair. Not bad? Not bad.

Step 1: Get some pants and some paint.

Step 2:

Masking tape and paint them pants!

Step 3:

Take a picture of yourself jumping in the air.

(JK. You do whatever you want with your painted pants)

As you can see, the fancy pants pair isn't that much different than the DIY pair. Maybe you could dip dye them too if the paint is too stiff? I don't know, I'm just throwing things out there.

More Cats!

2011-11-07T07:13:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! Happy Monday! Let's celebrate with some cat stuff! Wee-hoo!

Words cannot express how much I love this tote and this tank from Leah Goren.

But here are a few words that might express it just a little.

Amazing, adorable, cute, cuteable (cute/adorable hybrid), etc.

Alright kittens, let's get this day a rollin'.

50

2011-11-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

Society 6 has a neat project called 50 and 50 where they invited 50 designers (one per state) to cook up a neat print using their state's motto. As someone who's always enjoyed state mottos (Kansas does have a pretty bada$$ one, after all) these were a lot of fun to look through, even if I didn't quite "get" them all.

First up, Kansas. Where I call home! Fun fact, on our flag it's actually in Latin: Ad Astra per Aspera.

West Virginia was one of the cutest. I like the "Guns and a hat!" label : )

I was born in Tennessee.

I love Vermont's motto and I love this print!

All of the little leaves and apples, it's so...Vermont-y!

What's your favorite?

What's your state's motto?

Ring a Ling

2011-11-03T10:57:00.000-07:00

Admittedly, I am not a jewelry person. I mean, I love jewelry. I like to stare at it and say things like, "Ooooohhhh sparkly!" but I just don't get down with wearing it. I'm too much of a tomboy, I get too messy. But lately, I've been pining for a new ring. Something for my right hand because it looks so lonely. These two are currently at the top of my ever changing list.

Just the right amount of color here and thin as a whisper!

from Magpie & Rye

Do I even have to explain why I like this one? I mean, come on. You guys know me better than that.

from Catbird

Hand Stand

2011-11-03T10:09:00.000-07:00

I just liked these pictures and wanted to share them with you guys.

Almost...

Got it!

I don't know about you but I used to do these "cheater" hand stands all. day. long. when I was a kid. No joke. It drove my grandmother up the wall (pun completely intended).

: )

from Notes From More & Co.

Kitten Calendar

2011-11-01T07:40:00.000-07:00

I'm just giving everyone advanced notice that if you want to be the greatest person that ever lived come December 25th you should probably just go ahead and buy this calendar. Heck, buy three or four. Chances are you know three or four people who would flip their lid for 12 months of kittens accompanied by song lyrics from Nico, Fleetwood Mac, and the Rolling Stones.

Chances are, you know me. So....

from Catbird

Autumn Leaves

2011-10-31T10:35:00.000-07:00

I'm kind of in like with this Autumn Leaves Table Runner DIY from The Sweetest Occasion. It fits all of my criteria for a DIY project.

Virtually free

Incredibly easy

Glitter

Only thing is, I don't think our cat Maggie would handle having REAL leaves on the dining room table very well. Better yet, I don't think the leaves would handle Maggie very well. Crunch, crunch, floor if you get my drift? Still, I loves me some glitter.

Maybe I just try this with a few leaves and put them on the mantle?

Bust

2011-10-31T08:57:00.000-07:00

I think this beautiful bust would make a superb gift.

I'm not saying.

I'm just saying.

Also, I think it might be too early to be droppin' hints about Christmas presents.

Maybe.

From Lackluster Co. (Obviously. I mean, where do all of the awesome things I want come from?)

Ribbon

2011-10-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

Loving the new Kate Spade Curling Ribbon accessories.

They're fun for the holidays without being too "Christmas sweater-y", don'tcha think?

Top, Middle, Bottom

But Seriously

2011-10-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

Aren't this shirt and this skirt from Whitney Deal like, totally the perfect wedding dress?

I mean, dang.

Glow

2011-10-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

Last year for Halloween I got about as crafty as I could get and made these bad boys in less than an hour. They looked great on the porch and I'm definitely putting them out again this year but these glow in the dark mason jars take even less time and cost even less money so...win? Win.

Get some jars at the DAV and some glow sticks at Wal-Mart or Tar-Jay.

Cut the glowstick open pour the contents in your jar.

Swirl that around real good and...

Bam! Creepy, spooky glow in the dark lights!

FYI: the site says these only last like an hour so you might want to test them out before the big day or just make them right before you get your trick-or-treaters!

Adorable

2011-10-24T08:15:00.000-07:00

Come next week I expect to see a cute pumpkin like this one on every person's front porch.

Let's get carving.

via

I'm So Glad

2011-10-21T12:44:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't this be just about the best way ever to get a birthday message?

You just download the postcards that make up the big picture and give them to 25 of your mutual friends.

They each fill one out and send it to the birthday girl or boy and voila!

They put together their own beautiful birthday wish!

via

Scout Style

2011-10-21T10:40:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been really into outdoors-y, boy scout style stuff.

Like this!

Clockwise from left:

Want to look like a bada$$? Carry a trench lighter. It's that simple. Also goes along with that whole "Always Be Prepared" thing.

Be Optimistic badge. Earn yours.

Pendant necklaces, collect 'em all!

A vintage bow.

Because if archery isn't something the boy scouts do, I don't wanna' be a boy scout.

Season's Greetings

2011-10-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

I know it's maybe a little early to be talking about holiday cards but much like the cheese-hoarding that I mentioned yesterday, this chilly weather also makes me start thinking of evergreen trees and twinkly lights. And also, if you want to get some sweet customized ones like these from Rifle Paper Co. you might need to get started on the process now (It takes 1-2 weeks to create, print and ship them)!

Don't have the time or the chee$e to get the fancy schmancy custom ones?

These two down here would sure beat the missletoe out of anything you can buy at Tar-jay.

On second thought, don't quote me on that. Tar-jay has some pretty cute stuff.

From top:

Custom Card with Three Portraits

Custom Card with Two Portraits

Twelve Days of Christmas Card

St. Nick Card

The Breakfast Club

2011-10-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

First of all, LACMA's Live Read (Sold Out, btw) of The Breakfast Club is genius.

Second of all, this limited edition poster for the event (also Sold Out) is too.

Especially love the key at the bottom!

To Die By Your Side

2011-10-18T10:12:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Hallerween. A sweet/strange little video from Spike Jonze:

To Die By Your Side

Spike Jonze: Mourir Auprès de Toi on Nowness.com.

via

Comfort

2011-10-18T09:50:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official people. The heat is on and no, not in a Glenn Frey/Beverly Hills Cop kind of way but instead in a "Geez Louise! This toilet seat is freeeeezing! Turn the heat on!" kind of way.

And as such, it's time to start turning to the cheese. When the weather turns colder, something in my brain just clicks and before you know it our fridge is filled with cheese. It's the only thing that can bring me comfort in the long winter months to come. If you live in a similarly desolate climate, you understand. If not, just enjoy the pictures.

Left: Mac N' Cheese with a Butternut Squash

Right: One of the greatest comfort food ever French Onion Soup (This one only takes 40 min. to make!)

My go-to, doesn't get any better than this comfort food: Cacio E Pepe (or Spaghetti with LOTS OF CHEESE & Pepper)

Hallerween

2011-10-17T10:39:00.000-07:00

Just in case you're planning on throwing a party on or near the 31st of October...

Some free printables from the always adorable The Black Apple

Birthdays

2011-10-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't these Trained Vine Canleholders from BHLDN make such a nice tradition for a kid's birthday? I think their intended use is for table numbers at a wedding which is also cool but wouldn't it be neat to have a whole row of these by the time you're an adult? I think so, anyway.

Also, the perfect cake to put underneath one of those numbers...

From Glorious Treats

In Stitches

2011-10-14T08:50:00.000-07:00

Now let's get one thing straight. I may be a nerd but that certainly does not included phones or phone accessories of any kind. In fact, I had a flip phone until December of 2010. That's right. A Flip Phone. But when I saw these Leese Design Cross Stitch iPhone Cases my mind went whirling. Accessories for your phone? Cross stitch cases? Just imagine the possibilities. Needless to say, I've been dreaming about an iPhone ever since.

Not to get your hopes up or anything but these are currently sold out. But but but according to the Purl Soho website they will be back in stock very soon and you can even have them contact you when they are! Yay!

Suspicious

2011-10-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Halloween, I love these "Suspicious Paintings" from The Curiosity Shoppe. These would be especially fun for a spooky party but if you don't need an occasion to wierd people out, you could display them all year.

Top Painting & Bottom Painting

And with a few supplies and a little artistic talent, I'm sure you could DIY something like this ; )

Just Because

2011-10-12T09:04:00.000-07:00

Some pretty pictures of the sea by Valerie Chiang

Something about these (especially the bottom one) makes them look like paintings.

Good As Gold

2011-10-11T09:26:00.000-07:00

I came across this DIY project for gold animal candle holders over at The Sweetest Occasion and I couldn't wait to share it. Bear in mind, I only choose DIY projects that I could do myself and also involve little to no work. These match those rigorous criteria so here they are:

Cute, huh?

Dear Diary

2011-10-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

I know it might seem like since I have the willpower to write on a blog almost everyday that I would be able to write similarly in a diary. But that is not the case. The thought of writing in a diary or journal terrifies me to my very core. Having to sit down and write (with a pen!) about your day is daunting. But this five year diary from Canoe might help a person like me become a person that keeps a diary.

A few, pre-made lines each day? I could do that.

Plus, the sleeve there is just...adorable.

Tie Breakers

2011-10-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

In what could be the greatest invention since the quarter, Set Editions has created a tin containing three "tie breakers". Wooden discs with either, "Your Treat/My Treat", "You Apologize/I Apologize" or "I will do it/You will do it" on them. Now, if only they could make these for deciding what to do on a Friday night.

Schnozzes

2011-10-07T13:23:00.000-07:00

Oh dear, I am tired. So very, very tired. These pictures will wake me up.

Oh wait.

They did the opposite.

Now I just want to snuggle with my puppy and take a nap.

Oh well.

Worth it.

top & bottom

Stock Up

2011-10-07T05:31:00.000-07:00

Might be worth loading up on cute shirts for next spring. Heck, these are such great fall colors, you could wear 'em right now under a comfy sweater like this! On sale at Bridge & Burn. Check it out!

Decisions, Decisions

2011-10-06T13:24:00.000-07:00

A while back, I mentioned eyeglass company Warby Parker's genius fashion week library stunt. Well, you might say they made quite an impression on me because here we are, a few short weeks later and I have been charged with the tough task of choosing a (that's singular) pair of their glasses. Luckily, it's made a little easier by their awesome (free) try-on program. I've got five days to choose from these frames, then I order my choice and send these back. Pretty neat, huh? Even neater? They give a pair to someone in need of glasses when you buy them.

Wish me luck!

Screen Prints

2011-10-06T05:34:00.001-07:00

I could stare at these beautiful, beautiful screen prints all day.

People would ask me to go out for coffee and I'd be like, "Sorry, can't. I'm staring at this."

Well, maybe not all day.

Left from Medium Control

Right from Yellow Lion

Exciting Stuff

2011-10-06T05:34:00.000-07:00

Remember how the other day I was all, "Man, I really need to blog about my house."?

Well, I did and guess what...

Our little house blog got on big ol' Apartment Therapy!

A special thanks to Jessica (who makes these lovely wares, I've blogged about once before)!

Tee Time

2011-10-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

I know that everyone (myself included) has been posting about sweaters and boots and

drinks of the pumpkin spice variety but somewhere along the line, Kansas didn't get the memo about fall. So here we are, sweating out one last week of semi-summer temperatures. I don't know what it's like where you are but if you find yourself looking a little peaked in that sweatshirt, take it off and put one of these dandy tees on instead!

Clockwise from top left:

Bill McMullen L'Idiot Savant Tee

Just Kitten Tee from the folks who brought you that sweatshirt that is all over tumblr.

Lord of the Flies Tee (I have the Catcher in the Rye sweatshirt from here and love it!)

Ice Cold Sunshine Tee in honor of Coke's 125th anniversary. Mmmmmm...Coke.

At Home

2011-10-04T16:04:00.000-07:00

Ever feel like something is hanging over your head? Something you've been meaning to do but you haven't gotten around to it? That's how I feel all of the time about my house blog. I always mean to work on it but I find an excuse like, eating a Butterfinger or not doing it. Well, no more! Today, I blog about my house. Before and after pictures galore. Starting with the living room. Check it!

Ten Thousand Lakes

2011-10-04T09:32:00.000-07:00

Minnesota is known as the land of 10,000 lakes and as such, it's also known as the land of 10,000 really subpar lake logos. That was until designer Nicole Meyer set out to brand one lake per day until she has done them all. They really are fun to look at if you need a little inspiration and the fonts are just...uhhhhhhh (that's me drooling). By her calculations, she should be done sometime around 2038.

Pretty neat, huh?

via

Puppies & Kittens

2011-10-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

I know I throw the words "want" and "need" around a lot. A LOT.

But I truly feel like if I don't have this picture from Lackluster Co. in my posession

in the near future, I really might just explode.

Come on. I mean, COME ON!

Money, why you gotta be such an issue?

Coast

2011-10-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

A loooooong time ago I said something about letterpress coasters being a nice hostess gift. And to confirm my consistency, I still totally agree with that sentiment. So much so, that I'm saying it again.

I think these letterpress coasters would make THE BEST hostess gift for a holiday party.

Now, I'm telling you guys well in advance so you can get to ordering.

Seriously, you'll look like a champ if you roll up with these and a six pack of some beverage that condensates when left out.

A CHAMP!

from Mr. Boddington

Tea Towels

2011-10-03T07:42:00.000-07:00

Do people actually use tea towels? I mean, I have hand towels in my kitchen and they get

U to the SED but these are just so cute, I couldn't bear to wipe my hands all over them.

Maybe frame them? I would anyway. Especially the last one! That's some useful information, there!

From Studiopatro

Uniforms of Fall

2011-09-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

So, a while back I spotted this photo while grazing the internet.

That's right. I don't browse, I graze.

Anywho, I came across these beautiful photos of a wedding set high in the hills

over on Fern & Feather and I was instantly inspired.

Ever since then, all I can think about is recreating those bridesmaids outfits! You know how some people say "Modest is Hottest"? Well, in this case they couldn't be more right. I just love how simple and strong and perfect those outfits look. I especially love the boots!

So I came up with my own little take on it. A little more modern, a little more boho. And the best part? Pretty much everything you see here could be aquired at the DAV. For real. Enjoy!

Shirt

Skirt

Scarf

Purse

Ring

Boots

It Figures

2011-09-29T07:18:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't you just know that about the time I get all fall settled in and I got boots on the brain

that I would find these lovely, if a bit hipster-doofus-y sneakers. I kid, I kid. They're fantastic.

I only wish I had found them earlier. They look like the perfect summer shoe. Maybe I could still get a few good wears out them before the rain sets in?

left middle right

I think I like them because they kind of remind me of the cost effective, size appropriate versions of these.

This & That

2011-09-28T11:37:00.000-07:00

Constellation Jumper

Blue Nebula Glass Marble

Uniforms of Fall

2011-09-28T09:43:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about fall, aside from the falling mercury is the colors.

Not just of the leaves but of everything. Gone are the baby blue hues of spring and the worn in, washed out colors of summer, here come the deep, rich colors of fall. Blues are true, oranges are impactful and reds are rusty. Now, by no means do you need to wear every color all at once but some purple tights (like I wore yesterday) or a solid, bright colored dress go a long way. Here are a few of my favorite fall colors.

From Left:

Belt

Purse

Dress

Tights & Shoes

Coat

Adorable

2011-09-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

This print from 55his makes me smile every time I look at it.

Something about the little fox painting it just gets me.

Preserving Leaves

2011-09-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

Leave it to Martha (pun totally intended) to come up with something so fantastic and so seemingly simple that I actually might attempt it.

Might.

Step 1: Get some leaves, heat some wax (simple enough, right?)

Step 2: Dip 'em in wax, let 'em dry (Okay, okay, I think I can do this)

Step 3: Hang them up somewhere where everyone can see them and say things like,

"How did you doooooo that?"

and

"Oh my gawd, that is soooo pretty!"

And now, we wait.

Hurry up and change you leaves!

Pattern Play

2011-09-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

I just noticed that my favorites section was filling up with patterns and I thought to myself,

"What a weird coincidence!" and then I thought "No, that's not a coincidence. Stuff like this is just more awesome than most other stuff. That's all." And then I thought to myself, "I should share some of these great finds." And then I thought to myself, "You know, I think I think too much."

Clockwise from left:

Adorable baby leggings

Mojave letterpress coasters

A beautiful porcelain bangle

Peter Pan

2011-09-26T07:54:00.000-07:00

If there's a complex, I have it and if there's a cure, it's probably these shirts

from Janey Clothing.

They're a little more spring than fall but, who cares? Layer that shizzle, bizzle!

Too much? Was that last part too much? It was. I'm sorry.

And also, the model's hair and makeup. Do Want.

Top & Bottom

Sharpener

2011-09-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

File under: things I see and immediately think of my husband.*

Also in this file: old cameras, coffee and suit jackets.

: )

American Design Club Pencil Sharpener from Steven Alan

*It should be noted (because he would want me to note it) that my husband still uses pencils to take all of his notes and he ONLY uses "My First" Ticonderoga pencils which will sadly not fit in this sharpener. But hey, it's the thought that counts.

Thank you.

DIY Tie

2011-09-23T11:40:00.000-07:00

How to make an adorable, lush looking little bow tie for yourself with almost nothing.

Why, you could even whip this up by tonight and wear it out on the town!

From Honestly...WTF

Three Things Thursday

2011-09-22T10:45:00.000-07:00

Now on the CORRECT DAY!!

Can you believe it?

I can't.

I'll take-uh...

These Scandanavian Style Blocks would be a cute decoration for a mantel or bookshelf.

These little heart earrings would be my first purchase (if I had my ears pierced. Wuss.)

This uhhhhh-may-zing "Circle of Light"

It's 24" y'all! That's huge!

I think it would look great over a bed.

Uniforms of Fall

2011-09-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

It seems like every season has a uniform.

In summer there's the one pair of shorts you wear all of the time, in spring it's usually a dress or something equally adorable but for fall I find that there are several "go to" uniforms.

One that I find myself "going to" more often than not is this one.

Now, I'm not saying I'm a badass but hear me out.

If you ever find yourself face to face with a pair of those boots with the fringe you need to just go ahead and cough up the cash because everytime you wear them you will feel like the biggest, baddest bitch in town. Promise. I wore mine til' the soles fell off then I bought some shoe-goo and kept on truckin'.

See what I mean? Big, bad bitch.

The blazer and the men's watch will only magnify your newfound badass-ness.

Clockwise from top left

scarf

blazer

tee

backpack

(big bad) boots
jeans

owl umbrella

ridiculously expensive watch (a girl can dream, right?)

Nailed It

2011-09-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

Story time!

So, I was at Walgreen's the other day. I know right, too cool for school. And somewhere between the licorice I didn't come in for and the makeup brush I did, I spotted these Essie polishes and my heart went pitter patter and that was all she wrote. I was in love.

I'm no nail polisher but I think these would like real nice for fall. Especially the middle one.

Perfect

2011-09-21T07:45:00.000-07:00

Geez, you guys! How am I supposed to blog about the first day of fall in all of it's fall-y glory when all I can think about is how much I love this t-shirt?

How?

from J. Crew (of course!)

Je t'aime

2011-09-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

It's true.

I do.

And I love this necklace too!

from The Angry Weather

which is also home to these adorable lightning bolt earrings.

Gray

2011-09-19T12:04:00.000-07:00

I'm kind of really, totally diggin' this print from Ben Shuar.

Kind of really, really digging the gray matte (which doesn't come with it, btw)

Is that my new thing?

I think it might be.

Although, I don't know if what makes it work so well is the pop of orange-ish red.

Could this work with other things?

from here

In the Hoods

2011-09-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

Oh, hoodie weather how I have longed for thee lo these many disgustingly hot months.

And now, just like that, you have arrived.

These are (just a few of) my favorite picks for the quintessential fall uniform.

clockwise from top left

A hoodie with a tank built in! What will they think of next?

A denim-ish hoodie for your denim-ish days.

A beautiful shade of green and I love that gold zipper.

The most comfy looking thing I've ever seen. EVER!

Great?

2011-09-19T07:24:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you guys and your "craft beers" and your "ciders" but I think this is pretty neat. I mean, I'm not sure if it's that practical for someone who doesn't really imbibe in the beer that much but I've been known to have a lambic and I've also been known to wish I had either

a) someone to drink it with or

b) some way to put the dang top back on.

I give to you

The Hermetus Bottle Opener and Resealer from Kauffman Mercantile!

Worth it?

from here

Painted Stairs

2011-09-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

I realize the whole painted stairs/painted risers trend has gained momentum over the past year and for the most part, I really don't think it's a great idea. I guess a painted stair probably gets just as dirty as an unpainted one but for some reason it just doesn't work for me. Until....

I started seeing these unpainted runners.

I know, I know, this is not in any way more practical than painting your whole stair but hear me out, we've got an attic staircase that is just about the ugliest thing I've ever seen. Maybe this would be a good weekend project? After all, no one ever sees them.

top, middle, bottom

Halloween

2011-09-13T11:01:00.000-07:00

Well, that most candy corny-licious of Holidays is upon us. Not really actually, it's about a month and a half away but seeing as how they've had the bite size this and the fun size thats out for about two weeks now you'll have to forgive me if the calendar in my brain is a little out of whack. That said, I don't mind really mind the barage of orange and black and I certainly don't mind perusing the Halloween cards over at Rifle Paper Co.

Cute, huh?

Clever

2011-09-13T08:56:00.000-07:00

Well, looks like there's a +1 for that ever-growing "Why didn't I think of that" list in the sky.

Eyeglasses company Warby Parker descended upon the New York Public Library as part of NY Fashion Week. Well, a bunch of bespectacled models did anyway. They slowly lifted their books to reveal the names of the frames they were wearing.

The gorgeous invitations were accompanied by a reading list and a real deal library card.

Sheesh, guys leave some cool for the rest of us, huh?

I was just thinking also, have there ever been this many models in the public library at one time?

Contact Guinness, this must be some sort of record : D

from here

Obsolete

2011-09-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

As you get settled into your Monday routine, why not take a stroll through the

Museum of Obsolete Objects? Created by Jung V. Matt, this virtual tour through the past is worth it for nothing else than a chuckle and to hear the creepy ladies robot voice throughout. Seriously, turn them speakers on, you guys. Creep out the person sitting next to you.

from here

Framed

2011-09-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, the first time I saw these I thought, "What the what, now people are framing scarves?!" but then I took a closer look and you know what (the what), they are actually really neat.

It's like a picture of your favorite book, your favorite flowers and your favorite "anything that can be hung on a hook". Can you tell that I'm not entirely crazy about the scarf thing? I'm sorry, it's Friday and my I am fresh out of feigned enthusiasm. But a necklace would look nice, yes?

from the.

Three Things Thursday

2011-09-08T11:18:00.000-07:00

So as part of my post "hottest summer ever" regime change I am hereby allotting Thursdays as the days on which I will give you three things. And it was good.

Thing one:

A Kitten Reading a Book on a Sweatshirt.

Thing two:

A Princess Leia Costume PDF Pattern

(Weeeeellll in advance of Halloween for those of you who are sewing-challenged like myself)

Thing three:

A funny video of a ferris wheel without the uh...wheel. Yeah, just watch it.

from Honestly WTF

Almost

2011-09-07T10:22:00.000-07:00

And now back to our regularly scheduled blogging.

Sorry about that guys, but the heat and the heat and the...did I mention heat, was really starting to take its toll on my brain. The good news is, the heat appears to have gone the way of the buffalo (knock on ALL OF THE WOOD!) and I am back at my post. Today, appropriately sharing with you some of my favorite "Almost Fall" things. For the place before pumpkins but after cookouts. It's too warm for a coat but just right for a sweater, enjoy!

From left:

Scarf, Sweater (with elbow patches!), Jeans made for boots, Vintage Backpack, and Riding Boots.

Break

2011-08-25T12:15:00.000-07:00

Please excuse my absence in advance. I'm taking a blog break for a while.

Books

2011-08-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

When I first moved into my own place I had one measly little built in bookshelf but I took it upon myself to fill it with the prettiest books I could find. I scoured thrift store after thrift store commiting that cardinal sin of judging books by their cover. Gasp! Whatever. It made for some interesting conversation pieces and some interesting conversations (i.e. "Oh! I love that book, don't you?" Me: "I've never read it, I just like the cover."). But whether you love to read the books or just love to look at what they're wearing, you have to admit, these are some pretty books.

all from Coralie Bickford-Smith

Showdowns

2011-08-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

So fun to spend part of your morning browsing the Great Showdowns by Scott C.

See how many of these you recognize.

My favorite are the last two natch, but they're all great!

I especially like the fact that they're all smiling : D

Answers: Joe Vs. the Volcano

My Fair Lady

Jurassic Park

Cold Brew

2011-08-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

Monday seems like the right time to post about that most glorious of beverages, black gold, brewed cold. Coffee. I know that I've expressed my inability to join the coffee club before but that doesn't mean I can't totally jam on the amazing idea/design of these good folks from Kickstand, a cold brewed coffee stand and delivery service in New York.

I mean, look at that bottle! It's beautiful!

(P.S. that's what it's delivered to door in and they exchange the bottles)

And what a cute little stand, too!

Every city should be so lucky.

from here

Living With

2011-08-19T14:09:00.000-07:00

Save me the trouble of having to tell a story about "This one time...", I'll just say that sometimes I see something and I say "(Insert person's name here) has been going through my mail."* and suffice it to say, based on this print, Kris Atomic has been going through my mail.

Happy weekend, my fellow bitch faces : )

*what you say when someone totally "gets you"

what my mom says when the pastor preaches a sermon that coincidentally relates to what you're going through. She's from the South, leave her be.

Three Things: Kid Edition

2011-08-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

There is no doubt in my mind that when I have children they will be just the most neurotic (I mean that in the nicest way possible, of course), cute, weird little things to ever set foot on this Earth and I'm completely reinforcing that with today's Three Things by sharing with you a few of my favorite things for the under 8 set. But hey, you could probably pull off that fox hat or sleep with an octopus too : )

Felted Fox Hat.

Adorable little girl with whispy curls sold seprately.

This Etsy shop makes the most fantastic looking Octopi. One even has an 8 ball inside! I love their eyes, too. So expressive!

And last but not at all least, the Cat Alphabet print.

Learn your ABCs and learn your cat stretches all at once.

Ballerinas

2011-08-19T05:33:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned it before but there are very few things in this world I enjoy more than watching ballerinas. Watching a wiener dog beg for food is a close second but, I digress. Ballet is beautiful and given my current obsession with sweaters and fall, this J. Crew shoot with ballerinas of two Russian dance schools caught my eye immediately.

Just lovely, huh?

From The Terrier and Lobster

via

770 Behind the Line

J'adore Dinosaur

2011-08-18T11:03:00.000-07:00

Okay fall, I'm trying to be patient, which as you well know is not my strong suit, but I really, really, really want to own/wear this sweatshirt Now! Come on! Can't you show up just a few weeks early?

From Topshop US

Wrist Candy

2011-08-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

If you asked nicely, I would be the first person to admit that I have blogged about some things more frequently than others. Prints get a lot of love 'round here as do things like dresses and shoes but bracelets? Not so much. I'm just not a big bracelet person. Reason being, when I put them on, for some reason it just doesn't do it for me. But for these, I might have to start singing a different tune! Pining over a bracelet? Moi? Maybe?

one, two and three

all from Son of a Sailor

Shoes

2011-08-16T09:33:00.000-07:00

Oh why me, why me? Why must my feet have continued to grow another 1/2 size after they reached that perfect, round 8? To keep me from toppling over, perhaps? I do live in a very windy state! Either way, it's a shame that my dogs couldn't find a home in these beautiful, vintage woven tapestry shoes.

A darn shame.

top & bottom both from James Rowland

On White

2011-08-15T08:38:00.000-07:00

You know what's right up my alley? This bee-u-tea-full invitation from designer Aya Ikegaya.

There's just something about white on white. It's so clean and simple and perfect just the way it is.

from here

and peep the other pretty invite it inspired here