ali loves curtis

glad tidings

2011-12-25T22:34:00.002-05:00

From our party of four.

in & out

2011-12-24T23:15:00.001-05:00

My sidekick came early in the morning on December 12. We're in love.

watch me grow

2011-12-10T22:16:00.005-05:00

I'm 39+ weeks pregnant, and contemplating carrying out an induction I have scheduled for early next week. I might be too sissy (careful?) to go through with it. I'm currently going through another bout of false labor ... unless something really exciting begins to happen. Send me your positive vibes.

In the meantime, I can't believe how big I am!

19 weeks

22 weeks

24 weeks

28 weeks

34 weeks

39 weeks

michigan house

2011-10-28T14:42:00.013-04:00

My sister is an interior designer, currently taking a break from her career to raise her three young kiddos. If you ask me, she sits more on the side of interior architect than interior designer or decorator. She's a wiz at carving space, and making it look good and perhaps most importantly, function well.

This is her current home in Michigan, a cool marriage of modern and traditional, which she designed pretty much inside and out. I particularly love the red roof.

Her family is moving soon and I feel the need to memorialize her home in some way since it will no longer be "in the family." (And maybe I want to toot her horn a little.) It has been a safe-haven as well as a favorite place to visit and spend time with favorite people, big and small. I have the best memories of babies crawling after each other in circles, bathtubs full of little cousins, fingerprint-covered windows and nights around the fireplace.

That bathroom is a dream. And the kitchen. Michigan house, we will miss you. You have been good to all of us, at some point or another.

She is going to kill me for posting this. But sometimes a sister's gotta do what a sister's gotta do.

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seeing stars

2011-10-24T15:58:00.004-04:00

I'm trying not to start over with a nursery for baby girl. Instead, the plan is to girl-up O's room. (Not too hard, considering the color scheme is babyish ... some might even argue that it's girly. I prefer the former.) But if I was starting over, there's a strong possibility that stars would make a strong presence in her little room.

To be honest, I haven't really had the time to do much of anything. I fear the second child is already neglected.

I did a roundup of favorite starry baby items for Babble, and it remains one of my favorites. I love that stool.

Some of my other roundups:

*Fifteen Favorite Onesies
*Hot Air Balloon Nursery Picks
*10 Really Cute Baby DIY Projects
*Really Cute (and Really Free!) Baby Knits

And also, anyone in the market for baby thank-you cards?

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have you met ... olive's friend pop?

2011-10-21T15:42:00.003-04:00

The title of this post is a bit of an inside joke. My little O might have an imaginary friend. He frequently asks me, "Remember my friend, Duck?" I can't tell if this is an opening line to a two-year-old's joke, or if he really thinks he has a friend named Duck, and that I've met him/her.

At any rate, I smiled when I came across this line of kid's clothing called Olive's Friend Pop. It's really, really sweet ... and has a great name, too.

Images from Olive's Friend Pop's S/S 2011 and A/W 2011 collections.

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wholly wraps

2011-09-24T15:05:00.002-04:00

Hand-printed shawls pretty enough to hang as art, by Wholly Aesthetics/Mengly.

Colorful polka and colorful yellow.

via Kadie's pin.

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friday already?

2011-09-23T10:10:00.004-04:00

How did it get to be Friday already? So much to do, so little time. I'll be packing moving boxes today and throughout the weekend. I hope your plans are more fun than that. Don't be surprised if you find me living in a moo moo-like maxi dress all weekend long.

Here are my Babble posts this week. I think you'll like:

*I had hopes of practicing pregnancy fitness this week. Does packing up count?
*Am I the only one who thinks these instructional childbirth posters are a little weird?
*Documenting pregnancy with mommy and baby shoes.
*I'm 28 weeks pregnant, and officially third trimester material. Eeeek.

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friday, and stressed

2011-09-16T15:49:00.003-04:00

Operation: Meltdown might be under way in my house. I am doing the best I can to avoid it, but it just might be inevitable. And did I mention that I'm pregnant and in an seemingly-eternal state of emotional turmoil? Anyway. I know I have much to be happy about, but I'm having the kind of week that is making me forget that.

I love photography by Jessica Todd Harper. Isn't the above photo perfect in the most raw and real and beautiful way? It is a reminder that all is good, and it is good to live in the present.

I'm also blogging about my pregnancy at Babble. Please read!

*I would love to be hard-core enough to do a true fertility diet, regardless of fertility levels.
*My idea (reality) of a day off at 26 weeks pregnant.
*Cute and clever birth announcements! I want.
*My baby name story, plus a handful more.
*I'm craving and craving and craving.
*I'm seeing stripes ... on babies.

Photograph by Jessica Todd Harper via Whitney's pin.

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sessun, behind the scenes

2011-09-14T10:44:00.004-04:00

Lovely behind-the-scenes shots of Sessun's Autumn-Hiver 2011/2012 lookbook and catalog--which is also something to behold. I love the autumn colors and rich lighting. See more here.

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dear utah

2011-09-13T14:19:00.002-04:00

Zara is trying to sneak its way into our American hearts with a collection of artistic photographs of each of the 50 states in its series, Dear America. I think it's working. (Of course, they didn't really have to try with me.)

Dear Utah photograph by Nich Hance McElroy

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fall at plumo

2011-09-12T10:27:00.002-04:00

I am ready for bundling sweaters and cozy knits. Leaves, start falling!

wrap
headband
socks
cardigan

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zara, t'marra

2011-09-06T19:42:00.002-04:00

Zara's online shop goes live tomorrow, September 7. Finally, and hooray!

p.s. You can shop early following these lil instructions.

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miniature knits

2011-09-03T10:30:00.002-04:00

These mini costumes, knit by hand at the Miniature Knit Shop, are some of the cutest things I have ever seen. A bit of an investment, to be sure, but very detailed and special.

Strawberry
Sailor
Cowboy
Royal Guard

And did you see the mermaid?

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24 weeks along

2011-08-30T15:44:00.003-04:00

So, does this mean I'm six months pregnant? Here are some little details and things and a glance at how my days (and my belly) are shaping up.

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serenity

2011-08-29T16:58:00.002-04:00

With an earthquake and hurricane, last week was a little bumpy. I also found myself quite homesick, wishing I was in Salt Lake City to give a big hug to a dear friend. Actually, I'm still wishing for that, but I think it will be too difficult to pull off.

At any rate, wouldn't it be nice to step into the above photo, for just a moment? I'm wondering how that beach at Nags Head, North Carolina, weathered the storm. And worrying about how people I love are weathering their own storms.

Here are links to my Babble posts last week. I hope you'll like them.

*How I might put Missoni to work in my nursery.
*I wouldn't mind an entire blog dedicated to maternity street style.
*I've got a thing for suspended cradles.
*This shop on Etsy has some great maternity dresses.
*I like that Novogratz family, and their names.
*This maternity blazer is pretty sharp. This stuff looks tailor-made.

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la look de la saison from sessun

2011-08-24T12:31:00.002-04:00

New looks from Sessun. Plenty more here. So many I can't decide, but I know they make me even more ready for a fall full of blues and plaids and orangey-red hues.

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new from oeuf

2011-08-22T22:11:00.000-04:00

Cute little clothes for little girls, from Oeuf. More here.

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ice cream card

2011-08-22T09:44:00.000-04:00

Today I saw this card at Mongrel, and I wanted it. Maybe to frame.

Thank you card by Yellow Owl Workshop.

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friday and pregnant

2011-08-19T18:17:00.002-04:00

I think I'm 23 weeks pregnant, but here I am at 22 weeks. I can't help but look down (and/or play with my necklace) when my picture is taken. Harumph.

Here are my posts from Babble this week. Check 'em out!

*The low-down on the price of one baby nursery, which happens to be mine.
*Maybe I'll be a convert to baby bows, after all. These are itty bitty.
*I'm good at compartmentalizing, but I'm a little worried about my placenta.
*Land of Nod signed on some great artists for their latest wall art collection.
*Get 40% off Rosie Pope Maternity right now.
*I'm definitely bigger than I was last time at 22 weeks, but I feel good about it.

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o's nursery

2011-08-17T12:17:00.002-04:00

I put together a little post about how O's nursery came together, all new and nearly all included, for under $1,000.

See it here.

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charlie and lola

2011-08-16T13:58:00.004-04:00

Anyone else think Charlie and Lola is absolutely the cutest show for kids? I have a special love for Charlie, in particular. He is the best big brother eva.

Bring it back, Disney Channel. (It used to be on around 6 a.m. on Saturdays, but now I can't find it.)

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friday is here

2011-08-12T21:53:00.000-04:00

Last Friday I was laying on a beach in North Carolina with all my favorite people, underneath an umbrella whose colors reminded me of an ice cream shop. I was also looking a bit like a bloated after-dinner mint, in my green suit. (Yes, everything reminds me of food.) I would do just about anything to be there again, but luckily I still have one sister and niece here with me, and that is everything.

I save a lot of blogging for Babble. I think you'll like these:

*I can't put my granny squares together, so maybe I'll buy one of these cute afghans.
*I love, love, love my diaper bag. And a true diaper bag, it is.
*I can't make any decisions regarding crib bumpers, but these are my favorites.
*I don't like to sound dramatic, but I feel a little like I lost a girl and gained a girl in a matter of hours.

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Famous the Doggie

2011-08-11T17:21:00.002-04:00

Two Fridays ago, right after we found out we'd be having a girl, we had to let go of our baby sister, Miss Famous. It was very sad and hard, especially for my mom. She was part of our lives for 11 years and I doubt there will ever be another like her.

I wrote a little bit about it here.

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max kozloff

2011-08-10T13:32:00.004-04:00

Max Kozloff is a Chicago-born modern art critic. He ventured to New York at the middle of the century where he became writer, editor and later, photographer. I think he accomplished everything I might have liked to, if I were a photographer: I admire the colors, the faded tones, the subject matter, the humor, and mostly what they accomplish in telling a story.

Most of the following are from his "New York Means Business" exhibit, highlighting window displays in New York City in the late '70s and early '80s. See more at Higher Pictures.

Image source: All by Max Kozloff via Higher Pictures

Via Kim's pin.

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fall with lauren moffatt

2011-08-09T19:02:00.002-04:00

A few looks from Lauren Moffatt that are helping me look forward to fall.

p.s. She's on sale on Gilt today. Well not Lauren herself but you know what I mean.

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thinking pink

2011-08-08T15:39:00.002-04:00

I've been thinking pink lately. (Maybe we knew she was a girl, even back then.) I don't think I give this color enough credit.

Image sources, top to bottom: By Kris Atomic, Shirley McClaine in "What a Way to Go," 1964, "My Turntable is Happy" by Skunkboy Creatures, fashion pic via They All Hate Us.

Aaaand, an update on my Babble posts last week:

*The run-down on making our big, little announcement.
*Nurseries with crochet details are all the rage.
*I really do like the looks of this gender-reveal party. Wish I held one, with lots of friends to invite.
*Thinking about Natalie and her experience with Pertussis still makes me cry.

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pinkish

2011-08-01T07:30:00.000-04:00

We shared news of our baby's gender on a family beach vacation. Any guesses? :)

We're thrilled, and holy smokes this baby is going to be here before I know it.

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19 weeks

2011-07-26T19:15:00.002-04:00

I'm actually 20 weeks pregnant today. But here I am at 19 weeks, waiting for this belly to really go pop.

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colour blocking

2011-07-25T10:49:00.001-04:00

I like colour blocking as done by Topshop. Guess which dress is my favorite.

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friday is here

2011-07-22T22:29:00.002-04:00

I am trying to do a better job of doing things I enjoy. If I build good habits now hopefully things won't fall apart when our new baby comes ... like they did last time. I have been doing a better job of photographing our lives, and documenting our toddler's nuances. Today when I asked him which letter "N" is, he said, "Mmm. That's a tough one."

Here are some links to my Babble posts this week. You just might enjoy:

*There's no doubt Gwen's debuting a children's line at Target.
*Really pretty photos of pregnant ladies. I want one like all of them.
*Hello merbaby. Maybe there is a baby photo prop I like, after all.
*Fixin' to make a handful of homemade sodas this weekend. It's hot, hot, hot!
*I want to look more pregnant. But when I am I'll prolly complain even more.

Image source: "Filly" by Leah Verway for Portland's Spacepdx via Rebecca's pin.

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we eat

2011-07-21T23:39:00.002-04:00

Gazpacho and grilled cheese, with limeade. Of course, only grilled cheese for O.

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christopher robin's room

2011-07-21T00:30:00.000-04:00

We took little O to see the new "Winnie the Pooh" last weekend---his second "special movie show" experience in his nearly 2.5 years. I'm still a little stuck on the original. But the opening and closing shots of Christopher Robin's bedroom, full of animals and curiosities and ripe for imaginative play, made me happy. Here are some "film stills" of Christopher Robin's room in the vintage version. I like them, too.

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a for apple / opening ceremony

2011-07-20T15:28:00.005-04:00

Did you see that OC is doing kids? This set is courtesy of the A for Apple duo. I need to know who the photographer is.

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something beautiful

2011-07-19T21:51:00.003-04:00

Hand-stitched, double-sided on veg tan leather by Building Block. Amazing.

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pretty, pregnant

2011-07-19T00:30:00.003-04:00

A little later today, over at Babble, I'm publishing a little list of some of my favorite photos of pregnant ladies. (I've been working on this one for too long; getting permissions from everyone took longer than anticipated but was of course worth it.) At any rate, here's a little preview.

I hope I feel as beautiful as these women look as I get bigger. And I hope to get some shots like these, this time around. Time to hand the camera over to C.

Image sources: top by Olivia de Brito, bottom left by Ryan Condor of/for Kelly Breslin, bottom right by Annie McElwain.

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summer

2011-07-15T22:03:00.004-04:00

Summer! My little Oscar had his first real haircut today (I'm going to miss those golden ringlets like crazy) and also his first popsicle which ended in a sticky strawberry mess. We're hoping to go to the beach tomorrow. Weekend, you are so welcome around here.

I've also been busy blogging about pregnancy-related business at Babble. Check out my posts!

*Shew, mosquito. Quit bugging me!
*My favorite room-to-grow ways to avoid maternity shops.
*Crafty? Make this maternity calendar shirt for your photo tracking.
*Your teeth need some love, too. And how.
*Pregnancy turns me into a crazy person/insomniac. Ugh.

Image source: Sessun Journal

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pink

2011-07-14T07:00:00.001-04:00

Sometimes when we're driving through the thick tunnel of green trees on the 64, we talk about how awesome it would be if just one of them was hot, hot pink.

Image source: Pink Desert by lucia fidalgom via Anne's pin.

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'alice' / arabella ramsay

2011-07-13T14:10:00.005-04:00

These looks from Arabella Ramsay's "Alice" collection have me hoping I can hold off on maternity clothes even longer. (Buying a couple sizes up, and unbuttoning the top button, of course. I'm still in that is-she-or-isn't-she stage.)

I also like the look of her contemporary Parisian boutique in Australia.

via where the lovely things are

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baseball, barbecues and baby business

2011-07-10T21:17:00.006-04:00

How cute are these Female Giants? We filled our weekend with some of America's favorite pastimes: baseball and barbecues. We went to our first game in Richmond, and actually, my first baseball game at all, in years. (I go mostly for the junk food, but the between-inning entertainment was provided by a dog-riding monkey called Cowboy Monkey, and he might have stolen the show.) Maybe I would go more often if the Female Giants were still around.

I've also been busy blogging over at Babble. Here are my posts from this week. Check 'em out!

*Born on the Fourth? Here are my picks for patriotic baby names.
*I think my OB wants to break up with me. Help!
*Truth or truth: What do you think about "Stork Parking?"
*How I broke our pregnancy news to Curtis and Oscar. Hint: Pinata!
*Flash sale sites are addictive, with selection this cute.

Image source: "Female Giants" from LOC on Flickr

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out of their element

2011-07-08T21:01:00.003-04:00

No soil, no vases, no planter boxes. So nice.

Top to bottom:

Flower Wall by Front Projects (via Celina's pin via Hello, Friend)
Floral Crown How-To (via Celinia's pin)
Flower Cross by Fantastic Frank
Flower Boat Photo by Noorkhan (via Megan's pin via Pretty Stuff)

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for/from oscar

2011-07-07T14:39:00.001-04:00

Oscar: Knock knock.
Me: Who's there?
Oscar: Knock knock.

He gets me every time.

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fourth of july awesomeness

2011-07-03T15:33:00.004-04:00

I have a bowl of cherries on my counter. The blue jello is in the fridge. My star-shaped cookie cutter has been recovered. I'm thinking about toddler-appropriate explosives. We are headed to brunches and barbecues tomorrow. (Thank you new-found friends!) I love the Fourth of July.

Some awesome Fourth of July-ish things I've had my eyeballs on:

Emerson's vest. I want it. But maybe I will have to settle for the camo version. :)
Beautiful flag by Michael Leon. (via Fergi's pin)
Flag jello recipe by Fresh Cut. (Image by Sharon Johnson)

And I still love these printable flags Maeve made for us, years ago.

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babble me this, babble me that

2011-07-01T16:04:00.005-04:00

Today marked my first day as a "Being Pregnant" blogger over at Babble. I'm really, really excited to be writing again, and for a purpose. It makes me feel good. I'm also really, really excited to be pregnant again--even though the thought of two youngsters kinda scares the dickens out of me. Yes, in true pregnant fashion, my emotions are all over the place.

You can read my first post right over here. Please say hello!

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fay andrada

2011-06-23T15:20:00.003-04:00

I like these pretty pieces (and photos) by graphic designer, illustrator and jewelry designer, Fay Andrada.

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wednesday patterns

2011-06-22T10:16:00.002-04:00

In a series called "Wednesday Patterns" for The New York Times Opinion Pages, artist and art director Leanne Shapton recreated patterns she saw on men's ties, her own socks, wool carpets and rows of ravioli, among other things.

Clockwise from top left:

Vintage silk scarf from a secondhand store, worn to a meeting at the British Library.
Painted gate passed on a walk to Museo Pedro de Osma.
Rows of sausage ravioli at Eataly.
Vintage dress from a secondhand store, worn to lunch at Nick's Cove.

Thanks for the link, Emily. I'm happy this made you think of me.

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better with lemon

2011-06-21T13:35:00.005-04:00

I had this tasty five-minute meal thought up by Ashley Helvey for lunch today and yesterday. It was my first time cooking collard greens ... I had to cook them because I had no idea they are so bitter when raw.

Cannellini beans, collard greens, parmesan, lemon, red pepper flakes. I added salt and pepper.

Image source: Ashley Rose Helvey

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pinata surprise

2011-06-16T15:00:00.002-04:00

Confession: The real reason I made mini pinatas was to fill them with peculiar plastic babies and ducky confetti. Somehow C didn't pick up on what I was trying to communicate with cheeky doodads from Party City's baby shower aisle: we're expecting an addition to our party! I saved a third pinata for my mom and sister when they came to visit last month. Their reactions were a little more of what I was hoping/going for.

New baby is due in December. Oscar tells me it is a "baby sister" and also a "little boy." We are so happy.

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fantastic frank is fantastic

2011-06-14T09:04:00.002-04:00

I can't imagine the fun the crew at Fantastic Frank has at "the office." Actually, I can. And good for them.

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good plaid

2011-06-13T07:00:00.001-04:00

I like these cheery plaids from one-of-a-kind and handmade line, I Owe You / IOU. Way to have a good backbone, too, people!

via The Invisible House.

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dance!

2011-06-08T10:01:00.000-04:00

It's only 10 a.m. but Oscar and I feel like DANCING.

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i'd rather

2011-06-02T14:58:00.003-04:00

Instead of sitting here wishing O would decide to rest his weary eyes so we could have fun this afternoon, I wouldn't mind placing myself in the above photo. What could be better than a handful of girlfriends and a mess of flowers?

Image source: Jennifer Causey for The Makers, featuring Saipua

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'gone with the wind'

2011-05-02T14:28:00.002-04:00

I just finished this, the longest book I've ever read. I picked it up for its cultural significance but was surprised to like the story as much as I did---though Scarlett is a total piece of work, whether you want to applaud her or shake some sense into her (and some other Confederates circa 1864).

Any other readers out there?

Image source: By Ali / Ali Loves Curtis

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hello richmond: picasso at vmfa

2011-04-29T11:09:00.006-04:00

A few weeks my mom treated me to the Picasso exhibit, visiting Richmond (one of only 7 U.S. cities, go Richmond!), from the Musee National Picasso in Paris. Above are two of my favorite works, created when he was on a more classical bend. I want a painting of Oscar in a harlequin costume.

Go see, and then have lunch at the Museum Cafe and enjoy it on the patio. It will be one of your favorite afternoons. Art plus family plus lunch al fresco have a way of doing that. I love having a mom who loves art.

Picasso: Masterpieces from the Musee National Picasso, Paris, is on through May 15 at the VMFA. Admission is $20; tickets here.

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better together

2011-04-28T14:41:00.003-04:00

Left: pinwheel-painted garage door
Right: Colored Horizon clutch by Annily Green, now sold

Garage door via Pam Garrison

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'a dance for one' from lover the label

2011-04-25T10:24:00.003-04:00

Some screen shots from Lover's little film, "A Dance For One," directed by Alice Wesley-Smith and Kasia Werstak for Lover's spring collection.

I lover ballet.

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little miss y.

2011-04-19T11:50:00.002-04:00

Cute little everything from Little Miss Y.

the cutting board

2011-04-18T14:18:00.003-04:00

Sometimes making a salad for lunch is good for me. Not only do I get my leafy greens and other vegetables, but I'm inspired to pull out my camera. Nature creates such nice colors.

Image source: By Ali / Ali Loves Curtis

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hello richmond: stonewall jackson shrine

2011-04-13T15:24:00.004-04:00

On a sunny afternoon a few weekends ago, we headed north on the 95 and exited when we saw a sign reading "Stonewall Jackson Shrine." We winded down a country road and ended at this white cottage, all that remains of a farm where the Confederate Civil War hero died of pneumonia after being mistakenly shot by his own rebel men in May of 1863. Aside from the cultural curiosity that it is (it's called a shrine), I was struck by the structure's simple beauty: raw floors with hand-forged nails, sensible but colorful linens, and plenty of natural light.

Stonewall Jackson Shrine
Directions from here
Woodford, VA
NPS page

Image source: All by Ali / Ali Loves Curtis

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lo bjurulf and paper

2011-04-11T15:22:00.007-04:00

I admire stylist Lo Bjurulf for about 197 reasons, but especially for her unexpected treatments of paper and, more specifically, wallpaper. I'm partial to fringey and curly, which can be seen in the bottom two shots.

Image source: All styled by Lo Bjurulf and photographed by Stellan Herner for Elle Interior, with the exception of top right image for which the photographer is unlisted.

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pinata day

2011-04-07T15:37:00.004-04:00

In a rare fit of craftiness/boredom, I made a couple mini pinatas following this guide on Ruffled. I'm not gonna lie. They're pretty time-consuming and I might think you're a crazy person if you make them for the entire party list, but have to admit the end product was really fun. They're hard eggs to crack; we ended up wacking them with C's Sigg bottle to get the party started.

Before I knew it Oscar had stuffed 17 Skittles in his mouth at one time. But luckily no pom-poms. Needless to say, the other one will be saved for a rainy day.

More mini pinatas here and here.

Source: images, Ali Loves Curtis; idea via Oh Happy Day

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better together

2011-04-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

Left: Hand-cut blocks from reclaimed wood, painted by Serena Mitnik-Miller
Right: Homemade quilt by Alice of noussnouss

Quilt via Susan's pin.

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hello richmond: need supply co.

2011-04-05T09:45:00.001-04:00

When C and I visited Richmond this summer to see if the move here was doable, we luckily happened upon Carytown and the deal was much closer to sealed. This 30-something mom pushing a stroller liked the vibe of the young, local-centric stretch of Cary Street. When I saw The Byrd I knew I could make it here. (A Mighty Wurlitzer on Saturday nights!)

I was also encouraged by Need Supply, where I picked up one of my favorite necklace thingies of all time last summer. This boutique shop carrying a handful of labels you've never heard of has a vibe that's cool and feminine but slightly rebellious: they do stripes and florals in a refreshingly not-so-cutesy way. And for the afore-mentioned 30-something on a grad school budget, the sale rack just might make shopping fun again.

Need Supply Co.
3100 W. Cary Street
Richmond, Virginia
www.needsupply.com

Image source: Phone photos by Ali

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inkblot tees

2011-04-04T09:00:00.001-04:00

I like these hand-painted silk tees by Rachel Rose in Brooklyn.

Inkblot blue green and inkblot coral, $78 each

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the art of cooking, 'homemade is best'

2011-03-30T20:48:00.005-04:00

These awesome photographs of recipe ingredients were styled by Evelina Bratelle and photographed by Carl Kleiner for a Swedish IKEA cookbook called "Hembakat ar Bast" or "Homemade is Best." You can watch a video of its making here.

I am quite certain this would be my dream job, though I've never really given this kind of activity a shot. Lately I fall in love with every creative job I see.

Sorry if this is old news. I inadvertently took a two-year blogging break, but I need to post it here for my own inspirational purposes.

Image source: Carl Kleiner

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kitsune ss 2011

2011-03-29T15:32:00.004-04:00

Thank you Kitsune for making me feel better about my lazy addiction to dressy shirts (aka anything tailored with buttons, collar) and ... jeans.

Source: Images, Kitsune; via RDuJour.

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4:30 p.m. in virginia

2011-03-28T21:55:00.002-04:00

It's 4:30 p.m. in Virginia. There is a pile of unmatched socks on my left, and a couple bags of pom poms on my right. Guess which is getting my attention.

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fideli sundqvist

2011-03-28T00:05:00.005-04:00

I am quite certain that if I ever meet Swedish illustrator and graphic designer (and paper construction wizard) Fideli Sundqvist, I might accidentally kiss her.

Buy paper animals and her children's book here.

Sources: images, Fideli Sundqvist site and blog; via Giddy Giddy

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built by wendy, spring 2011

2011-03-25T10:59:00.004-04:00

Wendy knows how to combine preppy and feminine, crisp and casual. As much as I love the online sample sales each week, I was excited to check out Built By Wendy's spring collection online today. But according to my latest e-mail, I can't get a closer look for another week. As if I needed the help, these pretty silhouettes have me ready for summer.

The Built by Wendy spring collection is in stores today, but set for online sale on April 1. No joke.

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'mirror' by annie collinge

2011-03-23T11:02:00.001-04:00

This morning, I have two cute toddlers bouncing on my couch. Oscar is caught up in some dancey-dancing, and I'm trying to teach June how to beatbox. (I am not the right person for the job.)

In addition to children, I'm thinking about how much I like this "Mirror" photo by Annie Collinge. It is also available as a print.

Image source: "Mirror" by Annie Collinge

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rebecca taylor, right now

2011-03-22T23:00:00.000-04:00

From practical to pretty, here's a little glimpse at what Rebecca Taylor has out right now. Check out all the spring looks here. I'm cuckoo for that green nouveau print.

Above: Moroccan ruffle tee, nouveau skirt, signature T, nautical '70s skirt, mirrored strapless dress, sail away top.

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liking and looking

2011-03-21T14:12:00.003-04:00

Happy Monday instead of Friday? I can't seem to stick to anything these days, especially if it has a deadline and I only have to answer to myself.

01. A baked mac-n-cheese recipe ... with vegetables!
02. The joy of a simple blow fish toy.
03. Men in Bathing Suits, an exhibit.
04. BDDW, Handmade American Furniture via Fergi's pin .
05. Falafel Night.
06. "The Suburb" by Camilla Engman.
07. Did you see the moon on Saturday night? I could have touched it.
08. A lazy, pinned-back ponytail from Sessun.
09. Leprechaun houses.
10. Loving the honesty and encouragement from the Love Out Loud series at Lovely By M.

Image source: "The Suburb" by Camilla Engman.

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sam gilliam, 'light depth'

2011-03-21T10:27:00.003-04:00

Sam Gilliam (b. 1933) is recognized as the first artist to introduce the idea of a painted canvas hanging without stretcher bars, c. 1965. He is most widely known for the large color-stained canvases he draped and suspended from the walls and ceilings during the late 1960s and early 1970s.

The above piece is "Light Depth," c. 1969, made with acrylic on canvas. But doesn't it look like silk? You can see it at The Corcoran and read more about it here.

Source: writing, Wikipedia; image of "Light Depth" from The Corcoran/www.corcoran.org.

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wanderlust

2011-03-18T00:07:00.003-04:00

I'm planning a vacation. Due to lack of nearby family, friends and financing, since Oscar was born two years ago, I have not been away from him for more than 10 hours. It happened once and it was heaven. I slept in a hotel room until 10 a.m.

So, like I said, I'm planning a vacation. My sister has the same week off and she's going to Paris. Tiffany is going to Paris on something like $83. Jordan lives in Paris. (France's Office of Tourism should be funding her blog). In a nutshell, I want to go to Paris. And London.

But it will break the bank. I am trying to forget Paris. I need this Zoe Karssen t-shirt. But I think it's for men? C'est la vie.

Image source: Zoe Karssen, Glassworks-Studios

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coppola's deli

2011-03-17T15:12:00.007-04:00

We are sandwich people. I'm not a big fan of franchised footlongs with pink tomatoes, and we've tried a few local joints but they've all been hit and miss, minus the hit. So I finally got smart and googled "best sandwich richmond" and Coppola's Deli popped up with rave reviews. Having walked by the no-frills joint with its signature red-stripe awning several times, we decided to check it out.

We shared the Industrial (traditional hero with Genoa salami, mortadella, capicola ham, provolone cheese, onions, sweet peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, oil and vinegar---I don't eat a lot of meat, but watch out when I do), and sat outside to enjoy the sunshine. The sandwich was really good in a let-the-ingredients-speak-for-themselves kind of way, and so was the company. Thanks to all the passers-by and the generously-sized pickle wedge for keeping Oscar entertained.

Coppola's Deli
2900 West Cary Street
Richmond, Virginia
www.coppolasdeli.com

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st. paddy's, grant hamilton-style

2011-03-17T14:43:00.004-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day, courtesy of Grant Hamilton. I'm not wearing green, but now my blog is. I don't think that counts.

Above: 6 Degrees of Green and Dirty Rainbow by Grant Hamilton.

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whistles ss 2011

2011-03-16T08:00:00.003-04:00

Definitely couldn't turn down any of these spring looks from UK shop Whistles. Who knew a pointy heel would be the perfect shoe for all of these ensembles? Not I said the fly.

Via Jen's pin / Honey Kennedy.

Image source: Whistles

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better together

2011-03-16T00:51:00.003-04:00

Left: Sculpture dress by Roberto Capucci
Right: "Splash" pillow case by Elisabeth Dunker

"Art into Fashion" featuring Roberto Capucci starts today in Philadelphia. Info here.

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golden boy

2011-03-15T08:00:00.001-04:00

I can't bring myself to cut this hair. On a daily basis I hear, "What a cute little girl! Look at those curls!" I smile and nod. I love having a beautiful boy.

I thought taking some photos of the ringlets might make it easier for me to take the next step, but maybe not.

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candles and spencer finch

2011-03-14T12:26:00.008-04:00

Since seeing "My Business, With The Cloud" at The Corcoran last fall, artist Spencer Finch is quickly becoming my favorite. Today I am inspired by this colorful installation with pillar candles called "366 (Emily Dickinson's Miraculous Year)." Its progression looks beautiful and exciting, if slow. Maybe especially because it would have been slow.

Image source: Spencer Finch

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liking and looking

2011-03-11T19:15:00.006-05:00

01. Thank you for the invitation and mention, Elle Decor.
02. Maybe my new dream job would be to run a play space like this one . So cute.
03. A floating house! A happy marriage of science and imagination.
04. I'd love to get a closer look at this installation piece.
05. It's 7 p.m. and Oscar is in bed, sound asleep.
06. Style by color via Seesaw. (Two unstoppable teams.)
07. We got invited to a birthday party tomorrow night. 'Smores are on the menu.
08. Cool meets pretty with dresses by Felicity Brown.
09. In college, I arranged flowers for a living. I need this refresher course.
10. Donate to the Red Cross and look at this photo to feel a little better about Japan.

I'm hoping the weekend gets better from here.

Image source: "Brown" by Kontor Kontur, via Seesaw.

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caitlin watson portraits

2011-03-11T11:27:00.005-05:00

This morning, I'm crushing on portraits by Caitlin Watson. This painting, a self portrait, measures 6' by 6' and is included in a show in Ephraim, Utah, this evening. It's true what they say about Utah being over-talented, but in the art world, it's always a good thing.

See more from Caitlin Watson on her art blog.

source: image, Caitlin Watson Art via The House That Lars Built.

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peter jensen aw 2011

2011-03-10T22:30:00.005-05:00

Boy, do I like these photos for Peter Jensen's fall collection.

Image source: Peter Jensen

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brights and braids, lisa congdon

2011-03-10T10:34:00.001-05:00

Two limited-edition prints by Lisa Congdon currently on my wishlist.

"It's Simple" and "It's Complicated," $28 each

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sleeping o

2011-03-09T13:47:00.000-05:00

One of my little pleasures is sneaking into Oscar's room at night, shining the light from my phone on his quiet face, and capturing a quick photo-with-flash. Then C and I look at the photo before we go to bed, and talk about the highlights from our day, which inevitably revolve around the monster. (It's easy to talk about how cute they are when they are asleep.)

Thank you for the inspiration Momfilter via Cup of Jo.

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london with orla kiely

2011-03-08T20:26:00.004-05:00

Love to see glimpses of my favorite, favorite city in the collection film for Orla Kiely's Spring/Summer collection, directed by Gia Coppola. I seriously love that place.

Image source: Orla Kiely

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roberto capucci in philadelphia

2011-03-07T21:25:00.000-05:00

Roberto Capucci (b. 1930) is more artist than designer with his innovations in silhouette, line and color. His lively "dress sculptures" will be on exhibit (for the first time in the US) beginning next week at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. You can peruse 80 of his gowns spanning nearly 50 years of his career. I'm going to have to make it up there one of these days. Wowza.

"Art into Fashion" is on at the Philadelphia Museum of Art from March 16 through June 5; tickets are $22 here.

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looking into the past on flickr

2011-03-07T00:43:00.007-05:00

My friend Jenny had a bedroom on the hillside that overlooked the desert valley below, filled with duplexes, four-way stops and a strip-mall where our mothers grocery shopped and we took ballet class. When her dad bought the land her house sits on, he snapped a photo of his then-new view. As young teenagers, we liked to sit on her bed, press the old photo against the window, and observe how things had changed in the 20-or-so years since he purchased the property. Of course, it was nearly duplex- and strip mall-free.

I've always been mildly obsessed with old stuff, and how things change, or more specifically, how we change them. Thusly, the Looking into the Past pool on Flickr makes my heart go pitter-pat. I've got to start contributing.

I especially like it when the antique photo is held by an aging hand.

Images: Top to bottom by jasonepowell, ABC Open Riverland, ABC Open Riverland and ohdarling.

Via Tiffany's shared Reader items via Modern Kiddo.

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girlfriends

2011-03-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

For the last few years, I've felt close to very few people. This new feeling does not sit well with me. Though not terribly outgoing (I need to work on that), I am quite friendly and for the most part, I've made friends easily. I am lucky to have made quite a lot of friendships and with really cool and fun but most importantly nice people, might I add. I took it for granted. I just returned from a visit to my hometown where I got to see friends, and now I'm lonely and a bit homesick ... for people more than for place. Having my closest family member six hours away isn't making things easier, and don't even get me started on the sister living on the coast opposite from me. Always, but especially when without family, friends are kind of a big deal.

So, here is my question: How do you make new friends in a new place? I'm open to suggestions big and small. I am willing to be adventurous, make big gestures. I am also willing to say hi to strangers, if necessary.

Help, please, my dears. The more, the merrier.

Photo by Levi Macdonald (Benedict.) on Flickr.

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shades of grey

2011-03-03T16:48:00.007-05:00

The more I think about it, the more I realize that heather grey (the kind immortalized by every gym class since 1960---even rebel Danny Zuko wore sweats) is nearly as classic as denim. I want to wear it every day, and it seems to go with everything.

Don't be afraid to pick up a little boy's crewneck at Target. I might have.

Left to right, top to bottom: Crinkled Sweatshirt by Joie, Sweatshirt by Daftbird, Sweatshirt Pullover from Madewell, Grey Bow Sweatshirt by Manuelle et Guillaume, Parts of a Whole Pullover by Left of Center, Drapey Short Sleeve Sweatshirt from Loft.

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zara, right now

2011-03-02T15:43:00.004-05:00

In a few words: Brights, neutrals, near-colorblocking, pleats, trousers. No over-accessorizing, little fuss, and few layers. Simple patterns, pretty fabrics.

Thank you Zara for not jumping on the glitz-and-glimmer bandwagon. And I still like your prices, too. Since I wrote this post for you, will you consider opening a store in Richmond? Think about it.

Images from Zara.

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utah towns in life magazine, 1954

2011-03-02T14:14:00.008-05:00

In the 1950s, Life hired Dorothea Lange and Ansel Adams to photograph three small towns in Utah. Some things have changed (St. George), and some things have not (Gunlock). In college, my senior project centered on my grandmother's life in the small towns of Utah. Ask me what one of my ideal Saturdays would be, and I'd tell you about driving south on I-15, stopping where and when I wanted for a treasure hunt, with my camera and a sister or two in tow. I am the kind of person who would rather go back in history than back to the future, and maybe even more than to the beach.

Thank you Emily for sharing this with me. See the scanned story here.

Images from Life Magazine via BYU Museum of Art; photography by Ansel Adams and Dorothea Lange.

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5:00 p.m. in Virginia

2011-03-01T17:10:00.003-05:00

It is 5 p.m. in Virginia and I am:

Amazed at the muted sunshine pouring in, like it's only 3 p.m.
Thinking about a favorite homemade pasta sauce for dinner.
So happy Oscar decided to try Clementine oranges again today.
Applauding Curtis for cleaning out the Jetta, as I write.
Grateful for Whole Foods' sale on air-chilled chicken.
Glad I decided to work out even though I loathe it.
Trying to stick to a budget. (No Hasbeens for me.)
Enjoying the quiet of a bright, early evening.
Watching videos of Oscar head-bobbing to Naughty by Nature.
Procrastinating waking him from his nap.
Thinking I should hang something, anything on these bare walls but know it will take me six months to do so.

Phone image of the sun-striped floor. Thanks to my caffeine fast, I don't feel as bad as that lion looks.

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flats out

2011-03-01T08:30:00.002-05:00

I was kinda done with ballet flats (my staple for way too long) until I saw these soon-to-be-released numbers from the wizards at Swedish Hasbeens. The construction looks pretty impeccable.

The Ballerina Hepburn is set for sale on March 3.

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hello richmond: johnsarahjohn

2011-02-28T15:22:00.002-05:00

Maybe one of the things I like best about Richmond, so far, is its proximity to Charlottesville. A few weeks ago I came home with a business card from C-Ville's JohnSarahJohn. This creative trio will outfit your festival, give your brand some identity, or decorate your home. I accidentally happened upon their temporary pop-up shop filled with one-of-a-kind light fixtures, original artwork and quirky collections. I left with recommendations for Sarah's favorite Richmond haunts.

Hoping a pop-up shop pops up even closer to the River City, one of these times.

JohnSarahJohn
422 E. Main Street
Charlottesville, VA

Images via JohnSarahJohn.com.

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two from galilee

2011-02-28T08:30:00.000-05:00

Cute handmade toys by mother-of-three Dria Peterson in Israel.

Smiling Sun Baby Rattle, $15.50, and The Strong Man, $29.

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hollywood jobs

2011-02-24T21:25:00.001-05:00

In light of Oscar season, I've been enjoying the Hollywood Jobs series on NPR's "Morning Edition." We've been introduced to location scouts, production designers, costume designers and one amazing 91-year-old shoemaker. Today, Susan discussed the mysterious world of locating era-appropriate props for movies (objects the actors actually touch), which might not be as glamorous as it sounds. But I think I would like the job. And I would also like a tour of History For Hire.

Listen to/read the story here.

Images by Katie Falkenberg via NPR.

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chelsea's bookshelf

2011-02-23T10:00:00.000-05:00

I aspire to own a painting by Chelsea James. I admire her latest works as much as ever: the colors, technique and subject matter resonate with me. (I would rather have her painting of a bookshelf than have my own nice-looking bookshelf.) Plus, she's from my hometown.

See more from Chelsea on her blog and Dolby Chadwick Gallery.

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rules of engagement

2011-02-22T18:24:00.003-05:00

Allison has started posting photos from her workshop in Mexico on her newly renovated blog. This shoot reminds me that all you need for a good engagement photo is a really good photographer ... and a really great dress.

Images courtesy of Allison C. Photography

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paint one on

2011-02-22T17:59:00.002-05:00

These pretty hand-painted scarves by Tsifca are dreamy and romantic.

Rich green and blood red, $36 each

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