Capital A

jellies

2012-02-03T13:10:00.000-05:00

Swooning over this unbelievable jelly fish photography from Alexander Semenov! Can you believe the color and texture in these shots? Semenov is a Russian zoologist whose focus on invertebrates led him to photography as he tried to capture images of the creatures he was seeing both in the lab, and out on his dives. He started out with a simple point and shoot camera before graduating to more professional gear (including the camera we just got - the Canon 5dm2).

I would love to have one of these as a print in our house - but I can't imagine being that close to them underwater. I am totally creeped out by the jellies we encounter every summer at the beach. Aren't you?? Something about their transparency and erratic movements - I'm always afraid of brushing up against one without realizing it!

If you like this stuff - you should check out the rest of Semenov's work on his site.

OK Go + Sesame Street

2012-02-02T17:00:00.000-05:00

Yeah - this is pretty fun. Awesome collaboration between OK Go and Sesame Street. I'm thinking of cute little hipster kids learning their colors this way.

Via Brain Pickings

I heart food

2012-02-02T14:26:00.000-05:00

And these adorable biodegradable utensils - go watch the video on their site, how could you not love them? Designed by Fatima Fazal out of her Manhattan shoebox apartment - they bring the love back into eating. Wouldn't you love a set for a wonderful Valentine's day picnic in the living room - or sharing Chinese takeout night with friends?

facial hair photography

2012-02-01T12:13:00.000-05:00

This portrait series by photographer, Matt Rainwaters is incredible. Beautifully lit, high-contrast photos of contestants in the 2009 World Beard and Mustache Championship in Alaska. Rainwaters is a California transplant living in Austin and taking incredible pics like these.

Love this collection? You can buy the book - maybe a good gift to inspire the Movember participant in your life?

Dip-dyed

2012-01-31T15:21:00.000-05:00

I really love these dip-dyed marked baskets from Martha Stewart. They seem so fresh and spring-like. I might need to make a few of my own to fill with veggies from Eastern Market in the coming months. Seems simple enough and so much more chic than my drawer full of canvas bags.

Jump Book

2012-01-31T10:13:00.000-05:00

What a lovely gift this book by photographer Phillipe Halsman would be. I love his theory of "jumpology" in which he felt that becoming airborne would allow the true character of his subject to come out. Hepburn, Bardot, Monroe, Dali and famously, Nixon all jumped for Halsman.

I happen to be a big believer in jumpology - which you'll see on display in every vacation album I have. Do you take jumping pictures?

A Skulk of Foxes

2012-01-30T12:51:00.000-05:00

I adore this series of alphabetical prints by Brit design studio - Woop. The series features collective nouns from the common to the questionable. In the designer's words:

"Some of the collective terms listed have real pedigree and lineage and can be found in The Oxford English Dictionary, James Lipton’s 1968 An Exaltation of Larks or even The Book of St. Albans published in 1486. Some are of a more dubious and newer vintage than the original terms of venery. We make no apologies for being eclectic and hope that you will have fun with the words and enjoy our graphic interpretation of some of them."

I think these would be perfect in a child's room. No space on the walls? They also have a book and greeting cards! Here are a few of my favorites.

vintage DC map

2012-01-29T13:20:00.001-05:00

I love this great children's map of Washington, DC from "The Best in Children's Books," published in 1959. We live just slightly off the right edge. I think it's interesting which landmarks they chose to include and which they didn't (the majority of the Smithsonian institutions - although a few were yet to be built). The coloring makes me think of cherry blossoms which are just around the corner. Maybe you should come for a visit!

Let's go on more picnics

2012-01-27T16:27:00.000-05:00

This adorable picnic kit from Boxsal makes me long for spring. Despite ample park spaces surrounding us, it seems like we dream all winter about picnicking and by the time we get around to it, it is too warm and no one wants to sweat in the grass while being devoured by mosquitos.

So this year I propose getting on the ball a little earlier during those pleasantly warm days - and bringing on of these kits equipped with compostable dinnerware and even a garbage bag. If you're feeling inspired by the fresh air - you can even decorate the paint-by-number box.

Want to join in the picnic? Pick one of these up on Gilt Taste... it's even on sale!

Why don't we live in an old oil mill in Spain?

2012-01-27T11:38:00.000-05:00

Why not?

From freshome

Vintage Textile Totes

2012-01-26T13:39:00.000-05:00

Vintage textiles make fantastic totes and I would love to get my hands on these one of a kind creations by New England designer, Alice Saunders beautiful company, Forestbound. With new bags posted almost every day on their online shop - my wish list grows and grows. And if that's not bad enough - she's just started a line of gorgeous leather totes as well.

For anyone expecting a baby

2012-01-25T13:19:00.000-05:00

Please check out this crazy list of Civil War baby names from the Hairpin. If Blue Ivy doesn't do it for you - you may be more amenable to names like Gideon Johnson Pillow, Absalom Baird or my personal favorite, Cadwallader Colden Washburn.

1. Cullen Andrews Battle

2. John “Old Wooden Head” Hood

3. Francis Asbury Shoup

4. Stand Watie

5. Gideon Johnson Pillow

6. Birkett Davenport Fry

7. Richard “Fighting Dick” Anderson

8. Leonidas “The Fighting Bishop” Polk

9. Charles “Savvy” Read

10. Daniel Ruggles

11. David Rumph Jones

12. Galusha Pennypacker

13. Wager Swayne

14. Edward Otho Cresap Ord

15. Ludwig Blenker

16. Amasa Cobb

17. Louis Trezevant Wigfall

18. Thomas Fentress Toon

19. Felix Kirk Zollicoffer

20. James “Sally” Archer

21. Cadwallader Colden Washburn

22. Samuel Kosciuszko Zook

23. Young Marshall Moody

24. John Seashoales Witcher

25. Amiel Weeks Whipple

26. Manning Force

27. Catharinus Buckingham

28. Absalom Baird

29. John Sappington Marmaduke

30. Bushrod Rust Johnson

31. William “Grumble” Jones

32. David Emanuel Twiggs

33. Cyrus Bussey

34. Egbert Ludovicus Viele

35. Carter Littlepage Stevenson

36. Jubal “Bad Old Man” Early

37. Zealous Tower

38. Benjamin “Spoons” Butler

39. Melancthon Wade

40. Pleasant Hackleman

41. Speed Fry

42. Thomas Moonlight

43. Jasper Adalmorn Maltby

44. DeWitt Littlejohn

45. Napoleon Bonaparte Buford

46. Richard “Uncle Dick” Oglesby

47. Strong Vincent

48. Alfred Archimedes Torbert

49. Victor Vifquain

50. William “Extra Billy” Smith

Image from Roujo on Flickr

OBXmas

2012-01-24T10:16:00.000-05:00

I know I am more than slightly delayed in sharing these pictures from our wonderful family Christmas in the Outer Banks - or OBXmas as we like to call it. We had such a phenomenal time, laughing, eating and wandering up and down the beach. Dan and I are working on another little video project documenting our beautiful holiday by the sea, so that's still to come. For now here are some pictures that sum up the joy that was this holiday. Something about winter weather at the beach wins me over every time.

Sopa de Sunday

2012-01-23T15:11:00.000-05:00

It is the season for soup - and we have been eating buckets of it. Literally. It is hard to find something else that satisfies the chilly temps with the same warmth and bright fresh flavor. The fact that it can either come together in a snap or simmer for hours makes it incredibly flexible and easy to pull together in a pinch. Also most everything tastes good in soup. Ok that's a lie, but within reason, you can throw in what you have and end up with something pretty tasty - like that book you may have read as a kid; Stone Soup.

I'm not much of a recipe follower - which makes me not so successful of a baker, but luckily soup is an improv meal. As such, I was hoping to provide instructions for this stockpot of deliciousness in a different form than normal. Less of a specific list, more of a rough formula for something tasty and easily adapted to what you love. We love Mexican, so the below formula tilts that way.

Sopa de Sunday

What makes good soup?

Broth - low sodium is your best bet, we went with chicken, but you could easily do veg
Aromatics - these are your onions and garlic - how much to use? Half an onion and a couple cloves is a good place to start
Protein - shredded chicken in this pot which could easily be omitted or replaced with beans or maybe shrimp? We pulled the meat of a rotisserie chicken, but if you wanted to be fancier you could cook up your own chicken breasts, maybe in some spices to compliment your soup.
Vegetables - What do you have on hand? Carrots, celery, mushrooms, asparagus, green beans all went in this soup. Stuff in cans too, corn and hominy made our soup a little more Mexican.
Canned tomatoes - We went with Rotel for the green chile kick.
Citrus - To add a bright note - a little lime juice.
Spices - We went without, but a bay leaf, chili powder or oregano might work nicely.
Toppings - Fresh jalapenos, shredded cheese, avocado and sour cream round out the bowl.

So as you can see, you could easily change directions. This could be a more Italian wedding style soup just throw in some pasta, or a traditional chicken noodle, if you have lemongrass and ginger on hand, something a little more Asian approaching Pho. This is the soup for turning what you have on hand into what you want to eat.

How do you cook it?

Decide what you're doing with the protein - do you need to cook it? Shred it? Get it ready and set it aside.

In the bottom of your soup pot - start with some olive oil or butter and sauté the onion until translucent. Add in the garlic. Now start adding your veggies with the hardest ones (slowest to cook) first. That means carrots in first along with some celery. Potatoes as well (if you feel like using those). Move on to some softer veg after a few minutes - bell peppers, green beans, asparagus and zucchini. Save the softest for last with just a quick saute for mushrooms and light wilting for greens like spinach. Add the broth, maybe add some water with it and season away. Using a bay leaf? Stick it in.

****

BUT HOW MUCH VEGGIE?

Think about how much you are making. How many people are eating it? For the two of us I wanted a lot of veggies, but not a lot of any one kind. Think one stalk of celery, two-three carrots, a few handfuls of green beans, a pepper, a zucchini or two. Don't go crazy, but don't hold back. You want it chock full of goodness and the leftovers are even better.

****

Bring this all to a boil. Taste, adjust. Add your protein in along with the canned goods - corn, tomatoes and hominy (One can of each, but two of Rotel)

Return to a boil. Taste again. Adjust. Put the lid on and let it simmer a while. Unless you're starving.

Keep tasting, keep seasoning. Right before you're ready to eat - stir in the citrus - just a 1/4 cup or so (if you want to). Ladle up big bowl-fulls and top with what sounds good.

I hope you'll try this and remember that it's soup, not science. Forgiving, flexible and totally delicious.

we made a movie

2012-01-11T11:29:00.002-05:00

Cookies from Abbey Watson on Vimeo.
The only chocolate chip cookie recipe you'll ever need.

By Dan & Abbey Watson
Filmed on a Canon 5d mkII, 28mm f/1.8 & 85mm f/1.8.
Music: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Latch_Swing/demo_2008/Swing_39

Yep - it's our first attempt on our new Canon - of course D's been making movies for work and school for ages, but this was a fun little late night project that also yielded delicious delicious snacks. We still have a lot to learn! If you're looking for the recipe in print, look no further.

Please pass along if you like this little project, and let me know if you'd like to see more.

Snow!!

2012-01-09T18:08:00.001-05:00

So glad to finally see some SNOW!! I was beginning to feel like we would go all winter without it! It's so nice to feel all snuggly inside with a cup of tea and a fire crackling away!

While the flakes fall outside - I'm enjoying this spectacular macro photography inside.

from ChaoticMind75

from LenkaSky

little leather goods

2012-01-09T13:10:00.000-05:00

From Herringbone

My reader is filled with starred blog posts about lovely little leather companies featuring fabulous pouches key fobs and bags - I adore them all!

From Herringbone

First comes Herringbone with their beautiful suede pouches complete with patent and metallic trims.

From Herringbone

Could a pencil pouch be more posh?

From Baggu

And these pebbled leather pouches from Baggu look deliciously soft

From Baggu

I'm loving them in Platinum, Black....

From Baggu

And apricot.

From Gildem

A simple and sweet leather key fob from gildem on Etsy in Natural

From Gildem

Or White.

From Harlex

And then there's Hong Kong based Harlex with everything from envelope clutches

From Harlex

To camera straps...

From Harlex

To my very favorite hand-stamped luggage tags.

wrapped & stacked

2012-01-06T12:47:00.002-05:00

From Honestly WTF

I don't think I have posted this fantastic bracelet tutorial from Honestly WTF here yet (maybe I have), but I've been eyeing it for a long time and finally decided that this holiday would be the perfect time to try it out with my cousins who are quite crafty. (You may remember the story of my crystal encrusted wedding shoes).

From Honestly WTF

The materials and instructions on Honestly WTF are very simple and she links to some great online shops where you can buy all the supplies - in case you don't want to run out to Michaels.

Here are the results from our attempts - DC ladies, I have some supplies left over if you want one of your own!

Ribbonesia

2012-01-04T16:26:00.001-05:00

I am blown away by the incredible creative ribbon work by Japanese studio, Ribbonesia. As someone who can hardly tie an attractive bow, these beautifully looped animals are amazing. Would love to see someone master this for holiday wrapping next year.

For the Dexter fan...

2012-01-04T15:50:00.000-05:00

Can't get over these ridiculous blood-splattered coasters from Think Geek - would have certainly made the perfect gift for a few fans I know. BTW, what did you think of the latest season? Not my favorite...

Spotted on Laughing Squid.

Clinging to Christmas

2012-01-03T12:29:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year and welcome to 2012! I am, as the title indicates, still clinging on to Christmas, despite hauling out the tree and packing away all of the decorations yesterday.

It was a simply perfect holiday down on the North Carolina coast and up here in DC with plenty of parties and happy time spent with family and friends. It is my favorite time of the year and I've been down in the dumps all weekend thinking that I have to wait another 11 months for Santa mugs filled with spiced (and spiked) cider.

One thing I really should wait 11 months before indulging in again was one of our favorite dessert discoveries of this season. I've included the recipe below with the warning that this is dangerously easy and totally decadent. Create with caution...

Saltine Toffee

1 sleeve saltine crackers

2 sticks butter (I like salted)

1 cup brown sugar (dark)

12 oz. high quality semi-sweet chocolate chips

Pre-heat the oven to 400° F. Line an 11 x 17 pan with foil. I find it's best to use only one sheet to cover the bottom if possible - sides do not need to be covered all the way up. Lay out your saltines in the pan with their sides touching - fit in as many as possible. Melt the butter in a heavy saucepan over high heat. Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved. Once mixture starts to boil, stop stirring and start the timer for 3 minutes. It will look dramatic, you will be afraid that it may burn - but be brave, keep the heat on high, because the darker the caramel, the more delicious.

Once the timer goes off, immediately remove the caramel from the heat and stir a few times. Pour over prepared saltines and use spoon to spread the caramel so all crackers are covered. Pop into the oven for seven minutes.

Meanwhile, place chips in a microwave safe bowl and heat for one minute at at time, stirring in between microwave blasts until chocolate is nice and melted.

Remove saltines from the oven and pour chocolate over the top smoothing with a spatula until a thick layer of chocolate covers all of the crackers.

Refrigerate for one hour- or until everything is nicely set up. Break into chunks. Devour.

Last Minute Gifts

2011-12-19T12:26:00.001-05:00

From Flickr user trentphotography

As the final shopping days descend and shipping days are limited, I always turn to Amazon for last minute gifts for anyone and everyone on my list. Here's a pick for each of our gift guide recipients, in case you need to pad out your purchases. All available on Amazon!

For the comedienne - indoor mini-sparklers to make the new year bright - from Amazon

For the butcher a set of manly meat handlers for lifting that massive roast - Bear Paw Forks from Amazon

For the hostess - a fresh and very French way to serve wine in charming classic tumbler - Picardie Glasses from Amazon

For the coed - snuggly sheepskin slippers to scuff around the dorms - from Amazon

For the dude - a major hot wheels construction set/decor option for his living room - Hot Wheels Wall Tracks from Amazon.

For the technocrat - from a fellow dreamer - Steve Jobs Biography from Amazon

For the archivist - a book of beautiful animal photography - from Amazon

For the classicist - a super warm pair of woolen gloves - Fox River Rag Wool from Amazon

For the globetrotter - a pretty ombre wrap to ward of the chill in business class - from Amazon

Finally, for the gardener - a vibrant hose in a cheery color - Dramm Rubber Hose, from Amazon

The Gardener

2011-12-16T18:56:00.000-05:00

More happy to be outdoors than in, she's counting down the days until her garden can grow again. From flowers and herbs to a full farm she's focused on a home-grown life that includes farm to table eating. Gift her with useful tools and decorative devices that lend a botanical air to her home.

A rolling raised planter great for veggies indoors or out - from Clean Air Gardening

A collection of vintage flower frogs for displaying perfect cuttings or just sitting on the shelf - from Old Keys Vintage on Etsy

Delicate shears for snipping away at herbs and twine - from Terrain

The ultimate reads for the farm to table chef - from Amazon

A hearty and handsome apron in a charming navy herringbone - from Brook Farm General Store

For what she doesn't grow herself, delicious pickles and preserves in seasonal flavors ranging from Bourbon Fig to Fire Roasted Poblano - from Farmer's Daughter

A simple and sweet twine dispenser - from Terrain

Cheery cherry spotted gloves - from Hable Construction

A luxe candle that brings the flowering scents of outdoors in - Diptyque from Candle Delirium

A pretty print for her kitchen wall - from Fine Artichoke

A French trowel for treasuring - Le Prince Jardiniere from ArteDona

A friendly German garden gnome - from Manufactum

Backyard Scrabble, for the motivated DIYer - idea from Sunset

Heirloom seeds in the most exotic packaging - from the Hudson Valley Seed Library

An incredibly rich hand cream for work-worn skin - from Anthropologie

Beautiful British potting tools - Sophie Conran from Burgon & Ball

A perpetual gardening calendar for tracking plantings, harvests and maybe a birthday or two - from Krank Press on Etsy

Recycled wine bottles are the base for these mini-herb growing kits - from Potting Shed Creations

A classically chic straw hat with the perfect black bow - from Anthropologie

The perfect tool for removing painful pricks - from The New York Botanical Garden Shop

A guide to preserving the bounty she grows - from Amazon

Rubber boots that are ready to meet the mud - from Tretorn

A divinely decorative watering can - from Terrain

Simply stunning artichoke platters - from the New York Botanic Garden Shop

For toting fresh produce in from the backyard or back from the market - from Brook Farm General Store

A deliciously fragranced bubble bath - from Fruits & Passion

To avoid confusing tarragon with thyme, vintage stamped spoon herb markers - from Lazy Lightning Art on Etsy

A super-cushy kneeling pad - from The Garden Tool Company

Finally, the most incredible vertical succulent garden panel that I dream of having one day myself - from Flora Grubb

The Globetrotter

2011-12-15T17:16:00.000-05:00

Whether personal or professional, her travels are always taking her somewhere. Her bags are packed and ready to go - so treat her with these small touches that make anywhere feel a little more like home and honor her adventuring spirit.

A super sleek perfume stick to turn her favorite fragrance into a rollerball - from A+ R Store

A cheerfully striped strap to dress up her DSLR - from Mochi Things

Foldable, practical and totally packable ballet flats - from Tieks

Chic hair ties that look as cute on her wrist as they do around a pony tail - from Mane Message on Etsy

Super snuggly socks to ward off the chill on airplanes and in over- air-conditioned hotel rooms - from Free People

To power up in any number of rental cars along the way. Tiny USB Car Power Adaptor - from Think Geek

A dazzling collection of travel pouches in the prettiest prints and color - from Stephanie Johnson

A drop of this and a spritz of that promises to alleviate everything from stress and pain to insomnia - 21 Drops from 3fl. Oz. (the best travel toiletry site ever)

An upcycled leather passport case in a mixture of beautiful hues - from Poketo

Some travel inspired art - from Jason Dean

A completely customizable cup, perfect for leaving messages for loved ones back home - from Target

TSA approved travel bottles in a cute quirky shape - Bright Idea Travel Bottles from Anthropologie

To avoid troublesome re-folding of street maps she can try one printed on a hankie. For those traveling through time as well as space, historic versions are available - from Muji

For slightly larger bottles, vintage style dopp kits - from Flight 001

A pro subscription to the best travel app on the market - from Trip It

A super-sleek & ultra-chic carry on (I love it in army green) - from Lo & Sons

A super slim sonic toothbrush - from Flight 001

A truly delicious and TSA approved travel toiletry kit - Malin & Goetz from J. Crew

A coming of age story set against a remarkable journey - from Amazon

So she can wear her sense of adventure on her sleeve. Sterling silver charm - from Tiffany's (a little too much for one tiny trinket? There are a world of others out there)

A journal for tracking her travels with a handy pocket in the back for whatever she collects along the way - Moleskin

An indispensable tool - from The Container Store

A pretty perfect nude leather luggage tag personalized with her details - from Harlex on Etsy

Finally, a beautiful globe for commemorating her travels - from ImagineNations

The Classicist

2011-12-14T12:44:00.000-05:00

He's handsome and charming with a classic sense of cool. With a slightly more sophisticated humor than the dude, give him quality hand-crafted pieces with a penchant for the past.

A beautiful belt with the most unusual clasp - Pelican Hook Belt from Apolis Global Citizen

The perfect tee for suit-free weekends - from The Social Department

To his health - from Izola

A rugged classic for when he's on the road - Filson Dopp Kit from Dungarees

In case there was any question. A print - from Poppy and Pinecone on Etsy

Cool classic earbuds with mic, remote and lovely cloth cords - Marshall from Amazon

A vintage linen pocket square - from Steven Alan

Something more substantial for sipping, I love the "stay sharp" label on the bottom - Horn Whiskey Tumblers from Best Made

A classic chambray shirt keeps him looking sharp - from J. Crew

Iconic eyewear - Ray Ban Clubmasters from Nordstroms

Not that he needs any, but he might enjoy the sartorial and etiquette advice from GQ's Glenn O'Brien - from Amazon

Soap with a scent that is totally masculine - from Old Faithful Shop

Vintage bottle openers, one for the bar and one for his bag - from The Woodlands

A thick and rich ribbed beanie - from Lands End Canvas

Beautiful British architectural models - from Chisel and Mouse

A kit to create his own custom beer - from The Brewers Mart on Etsy

For the door to his kingdom, or cabin. Stone Door Knocker - from Uncommon Goods

A little Lincoln with his Morning Joe - from Justin Rothshank Ceramics on Etsy

A no-nonsense weekend watch - from Need Supply

For any mustaches hanging on past Movember - Mustache Comb (can be personalized) from Offerman Wood Shop

For that cross-country road trip he's been talking about taking - America National Parks Atlas from Graphic Image

The perfect combination - from Williams-Sonoma

A serious shoe for shoveling the sidewalk and trekking through slush and snow - Waxed Canvas Hunting Shoe from LL Bean Signature

A simple and attractive solution to ensuring he always has the right bit for the job - from Old Faithful Shop

Vintage buffalo nickel cufflinks for the work week - from Sundance

Finally, original rockford red heel socks, without the sock monkey to stick in his - from Fox River

The Archivist

2011-12-13T10:42:00.000-05:00

Photo from Jamie - From Me to You

She has a strong affinity for history and a romantic take on life. A bibliophile, historian and writer all in one. Give her charming presents with a nod to the past and an emphasis on details.

Retro styling and full functionality make this lens case for her iPhone right up her alley, includes a fish-eye, wide-angle and telephoto lens - from Photojojo

A gorgeous handbag for toting books at an unfortunate price - from Fleabags, can't afford it? How about this one from Klein tools?

A custom address stamp for her every correspondence - from Primele on Etsy

The perfect pouch for makeup or mechanical pencils - from Anthropologie

The perfect hint of classic lace for peeking out beneath tees and tanks - Eberjey from Journelle

A classic fountain pen that stays true to it's original design, Kaweco Sport - from Jet Pens

An exquisite and expensive necklace bearing a line from Peter Pan - from Bjorg Jewellry

A tiny terrarium with two resident sheep - from Twig Terrarium

A charming scarf features bits and pieces of maps and ephemera, Story Teller Scarves - from Madewell

Beautiful bug papercuts - from Papercuts by Joe on Etsy

Simple sweet spectator heels complete her bookish look - from Lulu's - although I would prefer them in basic brown

Two treasure troves of 19th Century illustrations, Pictorial Webter's - from The Curiosity Shoppe and Albertus Seba's Cabinet of Natural Curiosities - from Amazon

A fragrance with a sense of history chosen from a series dedicated to unique women of the 19th Century. Can't pick just one? Try a sampler set - from Histoires de Parfums

For setting around on her desk or the mantel, vintage eyeglass molds - from Restoration Hardware

An assortment of vintage hotel flatware to start building an eclectic collection - from P.O.S.H. Chicago

A beautifully wrapped bar - from Mast Brothers Chocolate

A decoupage tray - from ephemera emperor John Derian

For artistically tracking passing days rather than aggressively planning future ones, Scrap Planner - from Hach

A delicious fragrance in a delicate jar, Capri Volcano Candle - from Anthropologie

Gorgeously recovered classics make her bookshelves all the more beautiful - from Penguin

A beautiful bike, for trips to the market, the library and anywhere else her pedals will take her - from Public Bikes

A shadowbox for preserving and displaying treasures gathered along the way - from Pottery Barn

A custom one-of-a-kind accessory built with beautiful charms - from Anthropologie

A delicious lip balm in decadent packaging, MOR Lip Macaron - from Urban Outfitters

A case for her e-reader that makes it every bit a book from its hard bound cover to it's beautiful lining - from DODOcase

Something more peculiar than the papercut versions, framed, mounted insects - from Evolution

Tees and totes featuring vintage cover art from her favorite texts - from Out of Print

Finally a sweet set of labels for keeping her library in order. Honey Bee Bookplates - from Alice Cantrell on Etsy

The Technocrat

2011-12-12T14:59:00.000-05:00

His refined taste leans towards tech in everything from fragrance to footwear. Spoil him with simple selections of high-end designs both digital and domestic all wrapped up with a hint of danger.

A sleek high-design key fob perfect for holding the keys to his sports car or stealth boat - from Velocity Art & Design

For quick downloads of highly sensitive materials - 2GB flash drive cufflinks from Cufflink Aficionado

To further his fantasies of world domination - Risk Legacy from Amazon

A delicately geared corkscrew works in one fast and fluid movement leaving the rabbit for suckers - L'atelier du Vin Soft Machine sold out everywhere but Barnes and Noble

A seriously svelte pack for weekends away or weeknights at the gym - Ignoble Mona Cocoon Backpack

Collar stays with a slightly sinister message - from Jack Spade

Satisfyingly shiny tumblers made from the same stuff as optical lenses - from Teroforma

Something to splash in those tumblers - Death's Door White Whisky from Liqourama

Tactical warmth and extremely cool gloves - Under Armour from Cabela's

A simple stainless flask with the slightest hint of danger - Lucky Flask from Fitzsu

A sexy set of earbuds featuring everything from tungsten tubes to micro-porous filters (whatever those are) that promise more rich and expansive sound - from Bowers & Wilkins

For the modernist in the kitchen, molecular cuisine starter kit - from Think Geek

A laser-cut stainless steel comb to ensure not a hair is out of place - Chicago Comb Company

A fun fresh fragrance in a very tech-centric package, Givenchy Play - from Sephora

A super-compact single serve espresso maker to meet his caffeine cravings - Nespresso from Williams-Sonoma

A set of ninja throwing knives, for something to do around the house - from Amazon

A pocket-sized power up for his many devices - iGo KeyJuice from Amazon

A place for everything and everything in its place, organizational system - Grid-It! from Cocoon

A classic cocktail shaker in an iconic design - Alessi from Amazon

Nylon trip and shoulder patches lend a sporty edge to a simple black cardigan - from Kenneth Cole

A black on black watch both digital and analog features enough buttons and knobs for fine-tuned control - Diesel from Amazon

The most recent addition to his favorite first person shooter, available for Windows, XBox or PS3 - from Amazon

A carbon fiber money clip keeps cards and currency stylishly in place - from Carbon Fiber Gear

Finally, a minimal but mighty speaker that provide serious sound with no wires and syncs effortlessly with a multitude of devices and apps - Jambox by Jawbone

The dude

2011-12-10T12:23:00.000-05:00

He's the perfect comedic companion whose style is all about the unexpected. Definitely not a "bro" and more Liger than Lebowski. Give him fun unusual gifts with a nod to his inner child and a sense of humor as big as his own.

A little greenery for his pad - from Bloomin Happy on Etsy

For keeping track - from 27th Street Press on Etsy

No more wounded soldiers - silicone beer caps from Save Brands

A lego man flash drive makes taking home work a little less serious - 2GB Drive from Amazon

An unusual brew featuring bacon and maple flavorings, who says beer isn't for breakfast - Rogue Voodoo Doughnut

A saucy pocket square, for when suits are mandatory, a little too brash? Try the glow-in-the-dark version - From Mark McNairy

A ballistic bic for stealth shooting in the office - from Think Geek

This Way Up Flask, in case he needs reminding - from J. Crew

For reference - from Need Supply Co.

A wall chart, also for reference - from Pop Chart Lab

Beer glasses with a side of snark - from Urban Outfitters

For more extreme face time, a iPhone mount that follows your every move. Let the skateboard stunts begin - from Swivl

A lucha libre mask, because at only $15-21 he can certainly think of something to do with it - from Corazon

Old school Mario Brothers and Zelda return when he can plug his old SNES cartridges into Hyperkin's SupaBoy and play on the LCD screen, or hook the whole system up to the TV - from Amazon

An interactive robotogami calendar - from Think Geek

A little Biden on his beverage - from the Obama for America Store

An unusual treat, chocolate covered jalapenos - from Golden Edibles

Illustrated inspiration from some of his favorite animated flicks - from Amazon

A LEGO hacker's dream, hand-curated kits come ready to construct a Batpod, Delorean, Nebuchadenezzer and more - from Ichiban Toys

Because it will always be funnier than the American version, 10th Anniversary Edition of the office - from Amazon

Add some arcade-style flair to his pad with these retro-fitted switch plates featuring vintage arcade buttons - from Aleph Design on Etsy

A super-sleek minimalist watch is just his style - Nixon Newton Watch from Overstock

An upgrade on his basic backyard water blitz, the XRanger 2000 shoots tiny biodegradable polymer exploding pellets that have been soaked in water up to 85 feet for a satisfying Xplosion. The flip up sight and shoulder stock make it a sniper-worthy weapon - from XPloderz

Because it's delicious on everything from scrambled eggs to sloppy joes - Sriracha Hot Sauce from Amazon

Finally, a different dude's sweater - from Pendleton

The Co-ed

2011-12-09T15:05:00.000-05:00

Photo by Stephen Lam

She's a fresh-faced freshman, ready to conquer the world on her own. Give her gifts that are fun and functional in a range of brilliant hues keeping her sporty style in mind.

Something to protect that dining hall banana from unfortunate encounters with textbooks and dorm keys - Banana Bunker from MoMa Store

Fresh and fruity chapstick from her favorite drink makers - Vitaminschtick from Fred Flare

A hilarious read that hits close to home - from Amazon

For making takeout a little more fun - rainbow chopsticks from MoMa Store

Something sleek and sporty to ward off the chill during her morning run - from Athleta

A simply brilliant leather wrap bracelet by Gorjana - from ShopBop

Clever prompts help her keep a record of every day, the pocket-size and delicious color make it a perfect accessory for self-reflection - Keels Simple Diary from Taschen

Rocking headphones in the most scrumptious shades to play her campus-crossing soundtrack - from Urbanears

A simple charm featuring school colors, team numbers or initials - From Eternally Linked on Etsy

Definitely different footwear for her trips to the gym - Vibram Five Fingers Jaya

A subtle scent in the perfect size for sticking in her bag and touching up between classes - Clean Shower Fresh rollerball from Sephora

A charming minimalist wallet in a wide assortment of vibrant hues - Magic Wallet from J. Crew

Beautiful inspiration to hang on the wall - from illustrator Katie Daisy, The Wheatfield on Etsy

Gloves that keep fingers toasty while texting - in dozens of shades and styles - Echo Design

For roommates with conflicting sleep schedules - eyemask from Urban Outfitters

Dorm-friendly PJs in fun colorful flannels - from Victoria's Secret

A deliciously decadent snack in flavors ranging from chipotle cheddar to chocolate peanut butter crunch - from The Hampton Popcorn Company

A helpful guide to everything from grades to guys, U Chic - from Amazon

Easily removable sticker frames for decking the halls of her dorm - from Blue Ribbon General Store

A sleek and sporty silicone watch - Neo from Too Late

Finally, a set of sweet Japanese masking tapes makes tacked up band posters extra attractive - from Cute Tape

The Hostess

2011-12-08T15:49:00.000-05:00

Her domesticity can be disarming as she whips up a deluge of dinner parties, luncheons and brunches. Outfit her palace of a home with items that are chic and classic and ensure she's always ready to receive guests.

A perfectly perforated roll of reusable placemats or napkins make setting the table a snap. They can be washed and reused up to six times, are 100% cotton, biodegradable and come in a multitude of colors - from A+R Store

A mustachioed hello - from Urban Outfitters

A subtly striped tray is stunning in its simplicity - from Neest

A fantastically French set of dish towels - from Le Bon Marché

Whimsical animal place card holders with gilded feet - from BHLDN

A sparkling server - from Leif Shop

Dry-erase cheese markers for separating comté from chevre - from Peppersprouts Design

Ridiculously lux maple syrups make breakfast for dinner a classy affair - Bourbon Barrel Matured and Tahitian Vanilla Bean Infused syrups from Noble available at Mikuni

A wonderful wall art addition available in a variety of regions - from Best Made

A beautiful braided cord makes a statement with a simple pendant lamp or single bare bulb - from Old Faithful Shop

A simply splendid assortment of exotic ice cream flavors - from Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

A classic enamel bakeware set, in blue or red begs for a casserole - from Falcon Enamelware

So even her dirty laundry is stored in style - laundry bag from Izola

A high-end hand soap to make the powder room extra posh - by MOR from Amazon

For extra-festive dinner parties - garland sign from Catbird NYC

A beautiful, batter-loving whisk - from Anthropologie

A deliciously heavy chenille throw for cuddling on the couch - from Restoration Hardware

A handsome end table, perfect for holding hardbacks or highballs - from West Elm

Long-handled wooden tasting spoons, as much form as function - Roost from Velocity

A perfect set of holiday plates for serving treats or decking the walls - 12 Days of Christmas from Rosanna Inc.

The extra-long stem makes these a sexy sip, a set now will ensure she's ready to ring in the New Year - from Crate & Barrel

A saucy swipe of color that allows her to go from dirty dishes to dressed for dinner in just a second - Supercalifragilipstick! from Kate Spade

Finally, a sultry sound makes this album perfect for Christmas cocktails - A Very She & Him Christmas available Amazon & iTunes

The Butcher

2011-12-07T15:31:00.000-05:00

His craft in the kitchen is all about the meat. From exotic charcuterie to aged marbled steaks on the grill - this carnivorous cook needs the tools of his trade to complete his perfect meal.

One hell of a grill brush that scrubs and steams the surliest grime off the grates - from Williams Sonoma

Although there's more than meat in this new cookbook from Ryan D'Agostino, the meals inside are sure to satisfy the manliest appetite - available on Amazon

An apron that's both stylish and serious for getting the job done (plus it comes with an iphone pocket), amazing heirloom quality and vintage styling by Stanley & Sons - From Garden and Gun

A jerky tasting box featuring natural, black pepper and Thai flavored selections - from Foodzie

A huge brass beast to adorn the kitchen wall - from Wisteria

An over-the-top addition to burgers and grilled cheese. Bacon is rendered down and combined with onions and spices to create this ridiculously indulgent spread - from Sur La Table

A pretty rad belt buckle featuring prime piggy cuts - from Cathrinette on Etsy

A super-heat-resistant mitt that provides protection without bulk, the Pit Mitt - from Sur La Table

To toast a trophy hunt (or long day at the office) animal shot glasses that balance rightside up or upside down, in white or black - from Gent Supply Co.

A classic dutch oven for when the cooking moves indoors - without the fussy gloss finish - Lodge from Chefs

A perfect letterpress print, le cochon - from Missive on Etsy

With a spatula for flipping, a serrated knife for slicing and a hook for wrangling plus a bottle opener to boot, this four-in-one BBQ Hooker is all he'll need at the grill, nevermind the name - from Amazon

A deluxe Kobe-style cut for a special holiday meal. Exceptionally marbled, juicy steaks from cattle raised using Japanese methods on Oregon's Washugyu Ranch - From Williams-Sonoma.

For the juiciest birds this beer can chicken roaster adds some stability with room for creativity, fill the cup with whatever you fancy, beer, hard cider or otherwise - from The Steven Raichlen Barbeque Store

For a high-end finish to a delicious piece of meat, steak sauces by Tom Colicchio - from Williams Sonoma

For after dark grilling expeditions - Energizer head lamp, from Amazon

A beefy tee for the guy behind the grill - from Threadless

Finally, a flick featuring a different sort of butcher - Gangs of New York from Amazon

Back from Istanbul

2011-12-06T14:33:00.001-05:00

I'm just back from an amazing two weeks in Istanbul where I fell in love with an incredible city, its magnificent history and delicious kebabs. I'm working on some detailed posts with plenty of pictures and long travelogue stories about my experiences - BUT Christmas is just around the corner, can you believe it's December??? So gift guides are also essential - look for the first this afternoon.

How was your Thanksgiving? Have you already started your holiday shopping?

More to come...

The Comedienne

2011-12-01T11:00:00.000-05:00

She's the perfect combination of comedic and chic - funny and charming in a most unexpected way. Gift her with plenty of tongue in cheek goodies both quirky and classy. Who says humor isn't a style all it's own?

A clever coin purse for a metro card or taxi fare - from Kate Spade

Mustache cookie cutters for a slightly sillier take on holiday baking - from Fuzzy Ink

For keeping record of comedic moments a little blank book - by Jasper + Black on Amazon

Surprisingly vibrant fingerless mittens to keep digits free for dialing and dino drop - from Kate Spade

Sarcastic band aids for taking life less seriously - from Urban Outfitters

A socktapus - from Clarity Miller on Etsy

Socks in the most luscious sherbert stripe - from Happy Socks

For when shit gets serious - from Cafe Press

Big old bow ear warmers to ward off the chill - from Yes Jess on Etsy

A silly print by Aled Lewis to hang next to the bed, these two are my favorites - from InPrnt

Deliciously minty and decidedly quirky tights - from Happy Socks

For motivation - from Pretty Bitter

A funny face for her finger - from The Harbinger Co.

Cheerfully bright ballpoints - Caran D'Ache from Sid Mashburn

Hell Yes, Hell No, Hell Maybe Tee - from Threadless

Status Update Sticky Notes, for keeping roommates up to date on her situation - from ModCloth

A classic striped tee with an almost a pantomime feel - from J Crew

A collection of insightful and hilarious haikus for ladies single and otherwise - on Amazon

Mustachio-ed studs - from ShopBop

A funfetti-like nail polish confection, Candy Shop by Deborah Lippman - from Amazon

A corn dog maker. Because corn dogs are delicious - from Amazon

A canister for keeping her falsies, eyelashes that is - from Jonathan Adler

Weird and wacky sculpture from SCUBA Gallery - on Rare Device

A set of temporary tattoos for grown-ups, my fave is the list of past lovers - From Tattly

A tiny articulated dino on a delicate gold chain - from Old Gold Boutique

Quirky cute teeth magnets - by Kikkerland on Greener Grass Design

A very deer sweater - from Urban Outfitters

A balloon dog ornament, for her tree - from Urban Outfitters

A charming new read, for once she's finished Bossypants - on Amazon

Finally, a seriously funny flick, Bridesmaids - from Amazon

music loves art

2011-11-23T11:00:00.000-05:00

I love this music video for 70 Million by French band, Hold Your Horses. Such a great send up of so many iconic paintings - can you recognize all of the artists? My favorites are The Death of Marat by David and Salome with the Head of John the Baptist by Caravaggio.

bridal makeup

2011-11-21T15:58:00.000-05:00

Nusja Jone-Our Bride from Kosovo 2.0 on Vimeo.

This gorgeous video by Yll Citaku features a bride from the Trebesh community in Kosovo getting ready for her big day - which features face paint and decorations. This article in Imprint explains the colorful tradition of transforming a bride into a "living doll," with heavy traditional costume and detailed makeup. The result is pretty stunning.

wanderlust

2011-11-21T11:54:00.000-05:00

Getting ready to hop an international flight this evening, and totally excited by the prospect of another big trip, I was wowed when this came across my reader courtesy of Honestly WTF.

Artist Karen Knorr combines analogue and digital photography (with a touch of photoshop) to create these otherworldly scenes of Northern India in this series called, India Song. A mix of sacred and secular sites with symbolic animals seems dream-like and magical. Doesn't it make you long for a trip to India?? The colors are so beautiful.

lovely owl

2011-11-18T15:00:00.000-05:00

Aside from the goofy soundtrack, I am in love with this little movie and more so, this little owl. Too cute.

christmas cards

2011-11-17T18:06:00.001-05:00

Moikka Paper

With my holiday prep period cut short by two weeks away, the clock is ticking not only on gift guides, but also house decorating, party planning and card selection and sending. I love receiving (and sending) holiday cards, it always seems like the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends around the world and be reminded of them during my favorite time of the year.

Here's a quick round up of some cards that have caught my eye - check your mailbox for the winning design.

Nancy & Betty Studio

Hello Lucky

Sesame Letterpress

Rifle Paper Co.

Cartolina Cards

Mr. Boddington's Studio

J. Bartyn Design

i heart design studio

Annie Clark

Paper Source

Kate's Paperie

Kate Spade

Kate Spade - Inside says "spike the punch"

One Lantern

Concrete Lace

gift guides

2011-11-17T10:45:00.001-05:00


From A Life in Focus Photography

I just got back from the most wonderful long weekend in New York, and things were starting to look at lot like Christmas :) I know this sentiment is categorically not allowed until after Thanksgiving, and it's not like I'm playing A Charlie Brown Christmas on repeat (yet), but the tree was going up at 30 Rock, lights were being strung all over town and window dressers were hard at work behind paper covered glass up and down 5th Ave.

I'm also feeling a little extra Christmasy, because I'll be skipping Thanksgiving this year, traveling out of the country for two weeks starting on Monday. Our traditional Outer Banksgiving has been transposed to Christmas for what I'm guessing we'll call OBXmas - so I am very much looking forward to that.

But - this means two weeks abroad in a key gift-guiding period... so I need to get started and pre-load these posts. I've been saving up ideas all fall and I'm excited to share them with you - but who will we be gifting this year? Any special requests? I'm looking over last year's posts for inspiration - who was your favorite?

The Frequent Flyer
The Class Clown
The Baker
The Gentleman
The Team Captain
The Socialite
The Mountain Man
The Cowgirl
The Digi-Ninja
The Hibernating Homebody
The Pop Star
The Kitchen Chemist

occupy george

2011-11-10T13:45:00.000-05:00

Regardless of where you stand on the ever-expanding Occupy movement, this little piece is worth a second look. Created by San Fran designers Andy Dao and Ivan Cash, "Occupy George," is one of the most effective tools coming out of the movement - and a decidedly non-digital way of making a message go viral.

Dao and Cash print or stamp simple info graphics and charts onto dollar bills (and you can too!) creating a crazy confluence of medium as message, or is it message as medium? Either way it's ingenious in its simplicity and according to the Bureau of Printing and Engraving, these bills are still street legal.

Olympic posters

2011-11-09T22:01:00.001-05:00

A series of London 2012 Olympic posters by British artists were released last week - the designs are fun and fresh with prints already available for purchase online. My favorites are the retro silhouetted legs of Anthea Hamilton's "Divers" and the repetitive ring motif of Rachel Whiteread's "lOndOn 2012."

In honor of the release, The Telegraph ran a great sideshow story featuring Olympic posters throughout history - a few standouts below. Isn't Mexico's 1968 design the coolest?

More animal portraits

2011-11-07T13:06:00.001-05:00

So I couldn't write about Sharon Montrose's work this morning without also doing a quick blurb on my favorite animal portrait series of all time- Jill Greenberg's monkey portraits.

The human expression, beautiful coloring and composition in this series blows me away. The book is a favorite gift of mine for kids and grow ups alike. It is a perfect coffee table conversation starter and I love looking through it again and again. Maybe a good thing to keep in mind for the approaching holidays?

animal portraits

2011-11-07T11:12:00.000-05:00

Really loving this series of animal portraits from photographer, Sharon Montrose's new book, Menagerie. The animal pics are also available as prints, which I love... She has several different series including one of baby animals called "Little Darlings" - would be perfect for a nursery.

speed racer

2011-11-01T14:00:00.000-04:00

A quick photo recap of our educational and inspirational trip to the Bank of America 500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway a few weeks ago. We were exposed to the inner workings of NASCAR and some creative culinary experiments involving both fried desserts and bacon. An incredible trip.

landscapes

2011-10-31T14:00:00.000-04:00

Landscapes: Volume Two from Dustin Farrell on Vimeo.

Unbelievable stop-motion video of Arizona and Utah vistas from landscape photog and stop motion expert, Dustin Farrell. Shot on his Canon 5D Mark II (my dream camera) and using a combination of RAW still image sequences and motion control stacked to create high dynamic range or HDR pictures - they give a stunning view of the west.

Half of the imagery are the recognizable wide-open landscapes of my childhood, and the rest are almost extra-terrestrial.

Makes me long for a road trip -- with a fancy camera. For more of Dustin's work, check out his Vimeo page.

halloween skeleton roundup

2011-10-28T16:49:00.000-04:00

Via Anatomy House

I happen to be part of the minority that thinks skeletons make perfectly acceptable decor year round. I love them and can't help myself - maybe it's my New Mexican roots and all the Dia de los Muertos imagery floating around my trips there as a kid, but oh man, I adore them. Using the impending holiday as an excuse, here's a round up of some of the coolest skeleton themed gear I've spotted this season.

Skeleton servers from World Market

Glitter skulls from West Elm

Awesome (and pricey) cufflinks. Love that one has his mouth open. From Betteridge.

A more playful day of the dead take on an owl on a pillow - by Liw Banks on Etsy.

Skull stein - from Urban Outfitters.

Dancing skeleton tote bag - from Bon Matin

Teeny tiny skull stud earrings - also from Urban Outfitters.

Slightly subtle sugar skull clutch wallet - from Loungefly on Amazon.

A more nautical take - another from Urban Outfitters.

The coolest dish towel every - from Bon Matin.

A little more dramatic (and dangly) earring choice - from Paulette Avila on Etsy.

Anatomical china - from Austin Modern on Etsy.

A slightly sweeter skull ring - from Alvina Abramova, cute earrings too!

An incredible vintage French anatomy poster from the famed Parisian Deyrolles

wild animals

2011-10-28T13:59:00.000-04:00

Some serious animal makeup from Markus Lupfer's spring show - some additional inspiration for your Halloween weekend? The zebra is pretty rad.

Spotted on The Beautiful Streets.

Why do sandwiches taste better when someone else makes them?

2011-10-27T12:25:00.002-04:00

Via Grilled Cheese Social

Daniel Kahlman from the NY Times says it's because:

"When you make your own sandwich, you anticipate its taste as you're working on it. And when you think of a particular food for a while, you become less hungry for it later. Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, for example, found that imagining eating M&Ms makes you eat fewer of them. It's a kind of specific satiation, just as most people find room for dessert when they couldn't have another bite of their steak. The sandwich that another person prepares is not "preconsumed" in the same way."

With the rain hitting the east coast - and the snow hitting my home in CO - I'm thinking a grilled cheese sandwich is probably the best kind of sandwich to force someone else to make for you right now.

For mind-blowing, ooey-gooey-melting inspiration, check out the ever delicious Grilled Cheese Social where MacKenzie Smith riffs on the classic cheese + bread + heat equation in more ways than you ever thought possible.

Ready for lunch?

levitations

2011-10-25T14:06:00.000-04:00

If you haven't yet seen the work of photographer Natsumi Hayashi over on her blog yowayowa camera woman diary, it's time to check it out. These images keep popping up in my reader and I'm blown away by them. Shot without the help of rigging or photoshop, Hayashi creates self-portraits of effortless levitation just with just a ten second camera timer and tripod. Amazing - right?

sexy halloween

2011-10-19T11:00:00.000-04:00

Snickering at this illustration by Jillian Tamaki spotted on The Hairpin. What are you going to be for Halloween? Something sexy??

ficus lyrata

2011-10-17T13:30:00.000-04:00

Via Elle Decor

I'm desperate to find a spot in my house for one of these gorgeous indoor trees. Feeling inspired by some well-placed greenery in a friend's apartment in Charlotte, I would love to bring some outside in as the weather changes this fall.

This tree is a ficus lyrata or fiddle leaf fig - once I figure out where to put one, I need to figure out where to buy one (help internets!) and then the ultimate challenge; figure out how to keep one alive!!

Via Elle Decor

Via Apartment Therapy

Via Elle Decor

Via Apartment Therapy

Via From the Right Bank

Via Abode Love

post it love

2011-10-14T13:00:00.000-04:00

Animation made with 350,000 sheets of Post-it notes in front of Melissa Gallery in Sao Paulo, for the launch of the collection "Melissa Power of Love." Photographed step by step and by 25 animators in five months.

How much do you love the little girl writing a message?

elmo

2011-10-13T14:06:00.000-04:00

Being Elmo, which will open across the country next week, chronicles puppeteer, Kevin Clash's life from childhood aspirations to the most famous character on Sesame Street. The documentary looks charming, and after having the opportunity to work with Kevin a few times, I do feel that his work really is something special.

Tea- bot

2011-10-12T13:00:00.000-04:00

How much do I love this little tea making robot? He is awesome and unfortunately sold out at mod cloth, but I couldn't resist posting anyways.

flower pedal

2011-10-11T13:00:00.000-04:00

For just a few more weeks (until Oct. 29) visitors to London's W Hotel have the opportunity to try out designer, Ron Arad's literal reinvention of the wheel. The 18 individual strips of sprung steel supposedly create a pretty smooth ride, the faster you go. Art in motion.

new gypsies

2011-10-10T13:08:00.000-04:00

Totally taken with this beautiful photo series by Iain McKell of modern day gypsies or horse-drawn travelers. These portraits titled, "The New Gypsies" are the culmination of a ten year project during which McKell followed the travelers across The UK observing their lifestyle. A much more nuanced story than that of my big fat gypsy wedding.

Steve Jobs

2011-10-08T17:29:00.001-04:00

A slightly belated Jobs tribute. Was surprised and saddened when our dinner party crew read the news alert of his passing on, what else?, our iPhones. Typing this blog out on my iPad, there is no doubt of the effect he has had on my life, and not just within the constraints of technology. He was truly a visionary and quotes like these are such an inspiration as I take my next steps.

my bearded pigeon

2011-10-05T13:00:00.000-04:00

I adore these vintage map throw pillows by Cath Young of My Bearded Pigeon. Custom locations available. Check out all of her goods on Etsy.

Last sip of summer

2011-10-04T12:20:00.002-04:00

A wonderful trip. Plenty of wine, sunshine and family time. Always goes by too quickly. Looking forward to our next visit to the Watson resort. Feeling much like fall here. Spent last week in Little Rock on to Michigan on Thursday.

vacation reading

2011-09-20T12:21:00.000-04:00

Photo via

One of my favorite parts of vacation is the license to do nothing but read for days on end - by the pool, on the beach, under the shady cover on the patio. It's a total indulgence and I feel like I always need to tackle enough reading to keep me going until the next break. I've read quite a few great books this summer - ones that I'm sure you've seen coming and going on the subway - The Help, Hunger Games and most recently, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, all great reads. I'm looking over this list compiled by Becky for more inspiration. Becky's challenge is to read one of these a week - I'm hoping to squeeze a couple in over vacation.

What was your favorite summer read? Are you picking up anything new this fall?

leaving town

2011-09-16T14:57:00.000-04:00

Photo by Chris Shipman for Chance

I'm on my way out the door for a week of vacation. Thank goodness. Plenty of reading, eating, sleeping, and sun. I'll be back soon - probably before I'm ready.

Brown Bagging

2011-09-14T14:42:00.000-04:00

How fantastic is this lunch bag art done by a guy for his kids everyday since 2008? Love. Check out all of his work over on his tumblr.

Swell Swill

2011-09-13T14:00:00.000-04:00

What do you think of these quirky wines from Swanson Vineyards? Cute labels make nice gift bottles and the descriptions make the wines themselves sound pretty tasty... and other wines from the vineyard are highly rated, whatever that means. Worth a try?