Hearts in sand

Christmas Cards

2011-12-02T09:45:00.000-08:00

My ideal evening involves weird shows on TLC, man-sized loungewear, and a craft project. This isn't some new thing because my mid-twenties are behind me now, it's always been this way. I decided to make my own Christmas cards this year and probably took it a little bit too far into cat-lady territory

(I made a rubber stamp. I carved a snowflake into this gummy block using my bare hands and small tools.)

My inspiration was this reindeer that I bought to add a little Christmas cheer to my mantle*. I drew a picture and scanned it, then printed it on different papers, adding paint to some and stamping others. I made 6 in about 2 hours, including the breaks I took to give my full attention to Hoarders and I
Didn't Know I was Pregnant. This is seriously going to take me forever.

Merry Christmas!

*I don't have a fireplace.

Prairie girl

2011-09-19T18:53:00.000-07:00

Click here for more prairie looks from Magnolia Pearl. You'll be greeted with some nice folk music (I tried to shazam it but no luck, if you don't know what shazam is you should probably google it) The reason this stuff is appealing to me really goes back to childhood and playing dress-up. The more puffy old fashioned ruffles the better when you're 6. I can't say I have a desire to wear these clothes now, but most of my girlhood pretend play ranged somewhere between living on a farm and crossing the US in a covered wagon. There was that Victorian tea party phase too of course.

Goat Hill Fair

2011-09-17T15:55:00.000-07:00

Spent a few hours at the Goat Hill Antique Fair with my mom today, it was old wonderful stuff overload but I managed to find exactly what I was looking for and somehow not much else. Self control! There were real goats too, I was kind of wondering about that before we arrived...

*C*

Head Decor with Sunnie Brook

2011-09-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

Accessory inspiration from Sunnie Brook's beauty blog.

Little Paper Planes and Ana Montiel

2011-08-29T19:16:00.000-07:00

I found this art site full of deliciousness, Little Paper Planes. It's great for po' girls like me just trying to make a house a home. I need some art in my life (but copies will do)because the floral framed print I bought at Ross just isn't cutting it. I thought I could get used to it but it taunts me daily in it's gaudy frame.

{Print 5 by Mara Caffarone 13x9 $65}

On a related note, I can't recall the last time I found so many inspirational images on one Blog (the blog of Spanish Artist Ana Montiel) I think I've seen her work before without realizing it, or maybe I just think I recognize it because so many artists have adopted this abstract/geometric style. I appreciate her use of color and her range nonetheless. I don't know if I would ever invest in art like this because I feel myself starting to grow tired of it already, but some of her sketches and more traditional pieces are lovely.

A sampling:

Happy day,

*C*

Book Report: Backstage With the Ballet

2011-08-21T22:31:00.000-07:00

Found this paperback book of photographs by Pierre Petitjean yesterday at an otherwise unfortunate church rummage sale. It was published in 1978 and features dancers from the following compaies: the New York City Ballet, the American Ballet Theatre, the Ballet du Grand Theatre de Geneve, and the Ballet Theatre Contemporain.

My Little Pony

2011-08-19T07:16:00.000-07:00

It's interesting how pastel hued highlights and ombre dye jobs have become hair trends. I've never been drawn to such unnatural things but lately I find it mysteriously appealing. The thought of fake hair glued to my head makes me cringe but the rainbow fishtail seems almost worth it. I've seen a lot of intriguing images on Pinterest lately too.

And then there's this..

Happy Friday : )

Case Study

2011-08-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

I just discovered Society 6 and Get Uncommon. I need one of these considering the amount of times I drop my phone per day is greater than or equal to the amount of times I get out of my car.

On an unrelated note, I never thought that mustache thing was funny. If I see another mustache mug/tattoo/iphone case I will scream.

Maybe black means you're happy

2011-08-06T10:25:00.000-07:00

Highlights

2011-08-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

Good things lately:

A beautiful wedding at a vineyard over the weekend

Greenery and lights

Best Man. Except there were two...Chris and Nick, also known as "Crick".

Not good for wearing on right hand to events with much hand shaking. Ouch.

More newish jewelry purchased during a fun trip to F21. All under $7.

New Ballet-inspired skirt found in an unlikely place.

Weekend breakfast traditions courtesy of my other half.

Trips to the Paneteria next to the laundromat between cycles.

Indecisive

2011-06-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

So far decorating our new home hasn't proven to be too challenging, the only official agreement I've made with my better half is to stay away from ruffles and anything pink. That's a small price to pay in exchange for the peace of mind that comes with knowing he has agreed to keep all his *weird boy stuff out of the common living areas. But really, the place still looks like we just moved in yesterday. The only space that looks presentable at this point is the bathroom.

I'm very motivated to settle in. The problem is I can't commit to ANYTHING. For example, if I buy a striped rug how do I know I won't wish I'd chosen something more neutral later on? Or what if all the ikat and geometric prints I love right now won't really "fit" in our beachy little cottage? I don't want to end up with seashells and wicker everywhere just because it seems to work.

I'm also overdosing on the inspiration. I bought like, 10 home decor magazines and I have scoured way too many blogs. I keep changing my mind. With that said, here are some extra pretty prints from Madeline Weinrib and Coco cozy that have only contributed to my confusion. Real nice.

And here's a link to a nice blog post about coffee table books full of even more ideas. I want all these books (not healthy)

Here's to complaining about things that really don't matter.

*C*

*Reggae concert posters, decorative Bob Marley throw, WWF red folding metal chair, and a novelty clock I don't even feel like describing. To name a few.

Mannequin Makeover

2011-05-29T13:11:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I spotted this dress form at a sad little yard sale and decided to  adopt her.  I found out she had spent most of her life modeling second hand  clothing in the window of a store that was no longer in business.  She also  suffered a bullet wound at some point (although I could not confirm that)

My mom, a seamstress, sent me some inspiration (here)  and we got to work on her new dress.  We first made a pattern out of a sheet by  trimming and pinning the pieces to fit…

 

We then disassembled the pattern and used the pieces to cut our fabric.  I decided to use a  floral pattern from her massive stock pile, I wanted something with a heavier  weight that would give the cover some structure and would also be easy for me to  sew.  Also, it was free.

After the pieces were cut, we turned them wrong side out and  pinned them back on to make any necessary adjustments before sewing it  together…

My mom suggested using a zipper in the back in the interest of simplicity.  I  was supervised pretty much the entire time, and only had to rip out a few weird  stitches here and there.  Luckily she also was there to sew anything complicated. 

 Now I just need to paint the stand (it’s some awful gold color) and  the project will be complete! Since we made a pattern, I can make more covers in  other colors and prints.  I haven’t used a sewing machine much since I was a  little girl, and it was a lot of fun to sew again.  I think the final product  will look great in my new closet.

*C*

Home inspiration

2011-05-15T21:42:00.000-07:00

Throughout my early 20's there have been many packed boxes, borrowing dad's truck, and moving the same ikea furniture until it crumbled. The places I've lived have all been exactly what I needed at that point in time, but lately I've had a strong desire to figure out what I want. I just found a great little place and I'm moving again, but this time with the intention of fully settling in. It's in close proximity to the beach and although it's a little rough around the edges from the outside looking in, it's homey once you step inside. What it lacks in wide open spaces, it makes up for in character and charm with its hardwood floors, cream beadboard walls, bay window, and a sunny white kitchen. It also has a quirky little extra room, about 6'X7', I think those dimensions leave me with only one option: extra closet. To me, the appeal is that it's a blank canvas. I can't wait to see what I end up with.

*C*

If I had a feather...

2011-05-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

"If I had a feather for everytime I heard that, I'd fly away"

A very good year

2011-05-11T06:46:00.000-07:00

Today marks the one year anniversary of making it "official". Dating, that is. I started falling in love with that goof from the first time we pretended to study together and haven't stopped since. Throughout our relationship I've never doubted that it was special. I think that's how you know you're in love...you just never feel the need to question it in the first place. It's a feeling I can't compare with any other.

I could go on and on but to put it simply, I'm thankful for all the ways he is wonderful. This has been the best year ever.

*C*

Intricate

2011-05-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

If it brings you joy, it's not a waste of time. Don't ever let anyone tell you that your art is not art.

*C*

Tiny sculptures by Dalton Ghetti

Somewhere only we know...

2011-04-23T19:34:00.000-07:00

 Springtime inspiration.  Just living on love these days.  

*C*

Wonderland

2011-03-26T09:38:00.000-07:00

Amanda Seyfried in ELLE

Kari Herer prints

2011-03-16T22:43:00.000-07:00

Just looking at some pretty things on Etsy. I love peonies so much.

Easy fix

2011-03-06T13:13:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting here looking out the window of the laundromat, it's drizzly and rainy and some lady is yelling at her kids for hitting each other. I accidentally just dropped a bunch of unmentionables on the floor and someone commented on my color choices (kill me) If I was an unhappy person to begin with this would be a pretty depressing scene but laundry Sundays have become comforting component of my weekend routine, possibly because it smells so good and soapy in here.

Last weekend I found a loose button in the dryer and tracked down it's rightful owner, a black blouse. As I was sewing it back on it occurred to me how simple it is to change out the buttons on an article of clothing. For example, I purchased a cheap but functional trench coat a few weeks ago only to have most of the buttons fall off sporadically throughout the week as I wore it. I found one button at my office and had a back-up that came with the coat but was still one short when I sat down with my needle and thread. When I went to the fabric store and saw how vast my options were, I bought a couple "accent" buttons since I couldn't get an exact match to the originals. I also bought some buttons to replace a different coat's obnoxious (too-big) plastic buttons. So easy but it can completely change how something looks.

xoxo

-C

V day

2011-02-17T10:28:00.000-08:00

Although I can't recall a single Valentine's Day completely void of love (see above, my little sister and nephew) I have spent many February fourteenths as a single girl just loving the excuse to wear pink and eat chocolate. This year was quite different but I still disagree when people say Valentine's Day is nothing to celebrate. I don't see a reason to exchange big gifts but I do like the fact that there is a day devoted to reminding people how lucky they are to have any sort of love at all. I am so blessed and I although I don't need a reminder, I can't help but appreciate the idea of it.

xoxo

-C

Floral arrangements

2011-02-05T22:18:00.000-08:00

A flowery dress with tights and boots is still my favorite thing to wear because it's easy yet somehow feels complete. Adding a jacket and scarf on cold days or just a pretty bag and belt when it's warmer doesn't take much effort either. My idea of a perfect dress is one that can easily be worn to work, to run errands, to the beach, or out at night depending on what you throw on under it/on top of it.

(1,2,10,11,12,13--Forever21. 3-Rebecca Taylor. 4-Topshop. 5-Frye. 6-Dolce Vita. 7,8-Steve by Steve Madden. 9-Hue. 14- Anthropologie.)

Free People

2011-02-05T20:35:00.000-08:00

www.freepeople.com

I would if I could

2011-01-30T19:43:00.000-08:00

If I had lots of money I would buy some good art. I've been a long time fan of Kristin Baker and her large, acrylic on PVC panel paintings. I think it would be fun to see how she goes about making them (piles and piles of blue tape, looks interesting) but I would settle for a museum visit if there happened to be an exhibit anytime soon.

xoxo

Dancing clothes

2011-01-18T21:55:00.000-08:00

I love movies where the plot revolves around dancers, particularly ballerinas. I'll even watch movies that completely lack a storyline as long as there are legwarmers and tutus (I own Center Stage, it's pretty awful). I draw the line at crazy sequels but I've seen Step Up somewhere around ten times and not because that one guy is in it either, I genuinely enjoy all the dance scenes.

I was planning on seeing Black Swan when I saw the beginning of the trailer but by the end I'd changed my mind, I think it had something to do with the whole pulling feathers out of her skin thing. I'm sure I'll eventually end up watching it just to see the wardrobe and the choreography, I have a feeling Natalie Portman was able to execute the role quite nicely.

With that said, I have a ton of respect for all professional ballerinas everywhere. I took ballet classes last spring and although I loved it, it was challenging beyond my expectations. It's the most beautiful art form because it's the most difficult and requires the most dedication. I still like to put on my ballet shoes every once in a while and practice what little technique I learned, it makes a bad day a little better. I'll continue fighting the urge to buy a tutu though.

xoxo,

-C

Bright lights

2011-01-17T09:25:00.000-08:00

Cat party

2011-01-11T12:57:00.000-08:00

Life hasn't left much time for goofing around on the Internet lately but I did stumble across this : I love cat party.

It's the blog of Chelsea magazine which is based out of Humboldt, Ca, where my little sister goes to school. Those are absolutely the only two things I know about Humboldt.

I can't wait for this weekend so I can spend hours with my laptop clicking "older entries" on this site until my heart's content. Also planned this weekend: ice cream cones and re-reading Nancy Drew's mystery of the 99 steps, cover pictured above. It's funny because I read so many of those ND books when I was ten, but that one in particular was my favorite and I still have it on my book shelf. It's the only one I kept.

xoxo

-C

A whole decade

2011-01-01T21:00:00.000-08:00

I cant believe it's already been ten years in the 2000's. I bid adieu to 2010 reluctantly, it has been a phenomenal year filled with positive change and falling in love. There have been family additions, new friendships, more learning experiences than I can quantify, and moments of heart-break scattered throughout. As I celebrate another year of health and happiness I also honor those we've lost. Life is a rhythm of bitter and sweet, but there is a peak to every valley. My only resolution is to continuously count my blessings.

xoxo
-C

Feathers on top

2010-12-25T14:48:00.000-08:00

I love wrapping presents. Merry Christmas!!

-C

Fake plastic petals

2010-12-03T07:02:00.000-08:00

Line study using botanical forms. I chose fake flowers as subjects since they were readily available at the moment, but I see now it would have made no difference if they were from the dirt outside my door.

{Contour with varied line weight. Bamboo pen & India ink}

{scribbled gesture line in 4B graphite}

{hatched line}

{cross hatched line}

{Calligraphic line with drawing brush & ink}

{Contour varied line weight in soft graphite}

{Scribbled gesture line in ink}

{mixed hatched line in hard graphite}

{HB, 2B, 8B graphite poppies. Just for fun}

Happy Friday to all.

The weather report is showing rain drops...ironically, I am scheduled to be part of a parade tomorrow morning and attend another involving boats adorned with Christmas lights at the harbor in the evening (my favorite!) So it may just rain on BOTH my parades.

Oh life.

xoxo

-C

Office space

2010-11-30T21:53:00.000-08:00

I am quickly approaching some job-related changes. In a few days I'll be in a new work space with several more things to keep organized. This means possibly investing in some pretty to-do lists and other office supplies that serve no purpose by being pretty except to make my days a tiny bit brighter. I know this does not apply to everyone, but I can actually improve productivity by making slight adjustments to my surroundings. Especially if those adjustments have flowers on them.

2011 Calendars - 2011 Snow & Graham Wall Calendar - Paper Source, $30
Fashion File Folders, $10
Office Organizer - Vinea Paper Tray - Paper Source, $16
Thumbtacks - Prairie Flora Fabric Push Pins - Paper Source, $8.95
Inspiration Yellow 1955 Vintage Pen, $17
Picture Frames - Birds on a Wire Photo Display - Paper Source, $12
Curry Dots Bracket Label - Paper Source, $4.95
Ace Pilot Stapler - What's New - See Jane Work

Refracted Ambiance Jar, $18
Paper Sketch Vase, Buds - Anthropologie.com, $98
Flowering Twig Pencil, $5
resolution pencils, $8
Desktop File Holder, $20
Spiral Notebook Series, $8
Spiral Notebook Series, $8
Amazon.com: Day-Timer Self-Stick Hot Lists, for To-Do Actions, 5 pads..., $12

Mousepad, $10 Etsy.com

All pretty things aside, I'm looking forward to new challenges and a new direction.

xoxo

-C

Book report # 8

2010-11-26T11:25:00.000-08:00

These images are from a 1974 French comic book style beauty how-to guide. I found it in the for sale section at the library which means I paid about a dollar for it. I always have these ideas about framing a bunch of book pages and using them as wall decor, I think these would look cute hanging in a bathroom someday.

Crafting a countdown

2010-11-25T00:09:00.000-08:00

I have fond memories of taking home colorful cardboard advent calendars from the grocery store. I recall choosing between 3 or 4 themes: a decorated tree, a Santa, a snowman, or a group of people caroling. Each tiny numbered flap held a waxy chocolate shaped like a bell or a boot and I enjoyed pulling the plastic mold out of its cover after the countdown came to an end. This year my nephew is finally old enough to appreciate this holiday tradition so I decided to make my own version just for him. A good excuse to go to the candy store and get out the craft box.

YAY for opening a present everyday.

-C

Cupcakes, strawberry, teapot.

2010-11-17T23:23:00.000-08:00

The other day my mom called and told me she was on her way to a bakery near my home. She said she was in persuit of some pretty treats to use as still life props. I gave her a few suggestions and hung up, happy to hear she was planning an afternoon of painting.

The other day I stopped by my parent's house and although my mom wasn't home, my dad directed me to this canvas and informed me that the props were delicious and they ate the treats together after they'd served their purpose. My mother is an artist who used to draw coloring books, mazes, paper dolls, and educational materials for myself and my three siblings growing up. I don't think she ever took the time to take classes or draw/paint what she really wanted. She has taken up a Saturday oil painting class in the past few weeks and I just love what she's made so far. As an adult, it's so nice to see my mom persue what truly interests her instead of constantly tending to the needs of other people. Lovely.

This magic moment

2010-11-16T20:49:00.000-08:00

Right now is a time to treasure. It seems as if there is a lot to celebrate lately, even aside from the upcoming holidays. I don't know about you, but I like to celebrate by going on adventures. Recently my special man and I took a trip to Costanoa to soak up some beachy wilderness. It was our first time there and I'm already drawing little hearts on my calendar to mark possible return dates. Looking back I wish I had taken more photographs (next time!) Here's a little glimpse anyway.

Our little bungalow. We checked in after dark and it was a very clear cold night, luckily the mattress pad was heated. SO cozy.

(Costanoa = camping + real beds - tents + still walking up a dirt path to take a shower)

It's a mere half hour drive up the coast from where I live, but it was the most perfect retreat. Yummy restaurant, big outdoor hot tub, fireplaces, gorgeous views, horses, gardens, giant chess board with giant pieces (yep), good coffee, and walking around holding hands with my love. Best weekend ever.

-C

Winter wishes

2010-11-09T21:10:00.000-08:00

Since the seasons decided to skip fall completely (last week it was too hot, today it is absolutely freezing) I'm just going to accept it. I don't think I ever really buy new clothes when it gets cold, I just pull my coats/boots out and everything else gets layered. I'm looking forward to Christmas shopping soon and maybe making a few of my own wishes come true in the process.

Simple shaped dresses

A connected scarf to wear long (not doubled up) behind the neck and back, but in front of shoulders.

Gloves. Not the stretchy knit kind, the leather outside/cashmere inside kind (mmmm)

Coats with details. I'm not really afraid of obnoxious bows as long as they're worn in moderation.

Boots with a slight wedge heel. Very busy day friendly.

This thing. Is that a scarf and a sweater in one? I like it.

It takes me a good three weeks to fully adjust to the time change and even longer to get used to constantly being cold, but I'm already looking forward to more rainy mornings spent cuddling and watching 80's movies (the best part of last Sunday), bundled up walks to the beach, lots of hot coffee to keep my hands warm, baking treats, Christmas lights, wrapping gifts, and the lovely smell of woodsmoke which tends to fill the evening air this time of year. When I finally have a place of my own someday, it must have a fireplace.

Happy Winter

-C

(Images: forever21, Beso.com, Spanish Moss vintage)

Sketch book

2010-11-04T16:00:00.000-07:00

The process of drawing doesn't come easy to me for two reasons, 1. it requires a level of focus far above what I'm normally capable of, and 2. it requires me to look at objects in a completely new way.

Ever drawn something with good intentions and had it resemble something you'd see on the walls of a preschool? I have. I've also always been confused about these results and had a strong desire to make prettier art. The simple fact is, drawing is a skill like any other and doesn't have much to do with natural talent unless you happen to be one of those people who can draw perfectly without any formal training (obnoxious). As my instructor always says, "the only way to learn how to draw is to draw". In my case, this means a lot of drawing to the point where I have to force myself to have a longer attention span. Practice, practice, practice. It has its fun moments though, and all that self discipline is kind of meditative too. That's saying a whole lot, since meditative is a far fetched idea for me.

Some recent attempts...

I have improved since I began and hope to keep getting more favorable results as the weeks go by. At the risk of sounding nerdy, I'm kind of looking forward to drawing my own Christmas cards this year. Yeah, I know.

xoxo

-C

Image bank

2010-10-19T20:50:00.000-07:00

(from the book Fashion Today)

In art class the other night my instructor introduced the idea of image banks. He proceeded with a slide show of photographs that have inspired works of art (some by him, some by others). Although I've never named my personal collection of saved jpeg. files and magazine clippings an image bank, I have been building this for quite some time. For me, part of the fun in blogging is simply having a forum to share a few of those images or new ones that catch my eye. I wish I could somehow make my binders and boxes of pictures magically digital to share.

Fashion is beautiful in an also functional way, but my inspiring image bank is actually not all dresses and shoes. All of my combined interests are equally part of who I am and when I feel like creating something, the result is ultimately, me. Whether it ends up a thing of beauty or not isn't the point but perhaps the goal to work towards (hence the drawing class. Fundamentals). Everyone's list of things they find intriguing will be different and that uniqueness is where art comes from in the first place. For example, I think the scapula is the most lovely bone in the body and quite mysterious, maybe I'll draw it and hang it on the wall. Or maybe I'll draw some seahorses sitting on a power line as if they were a row of blackbirds because I love seahorses and also think power lines are fascinating. I don't know, probably not but you get the idea. If someone I barely knew showed me a bunch of images that interest her, I'd likely be able to partly figure out who she is. What we are drawn to visually can be far more autobiographical than a list of events or hobbies.

(bones are interesting shapes. We are all a puzzle)

(ruffles can be beautiful lines)

(thanks to BIO 5 this now makes perfect sense.
The diagram explains how how you're kept alive)

(I usually don't like Margaret Keane, but I found this

print of hers at a flea market and I think it's nice)

(paper dolls)

(aquarium 2 weeks ago)

(ballerinas)

(and then there's this)

XOXO

-C

It's science

2010-10-17T10:44:00.000-07:00

Currently watching a show about lightning on the Discovery channel while some boy is in the kitchen making oatmeal and bacon. The crazy lightning video footage reminded me of an old favorite pastime, checking out NASA's image of the day. I love anything related to science (if microscopes weren't so pricey I'd own one for sure) and these photographs are just amazing. They make me feel so small.

If I had some place to go.

2010-10-14T09:13:00.000-07:00

Giles

Halston

Fendi

Imitation

So pretty. Makes me want to get all dressed up.

xoxo

-C

Fernando & Daniel

2010-10-12T19:49:00.000-07:00

Innovative product design is always interesting to me. So are Crayola products. Here, artist/designer Fernando Brizio of Lisbon uses felt-tip markers to create marks on unfinished pottery and fabric.

his pencil fence...

This piece is by Daniel Eatock of the UK. He arranged markers on 500 sheets of paper and left it to bleed for one month. He ended up with this.

The ink leaked through 73 of the sheets and he sold them all, prices ranging high to low depending on the paper's order in the stack. Easiest cash he ever made I'm sure. I think I'm gonna go take the caps off some pens and leave them around my apartment now.

-C

The Sundays

2010-10-05T20:57:00.000-07:00

Lately Sunday has become my favorite day of all. In recent weeks it's started off early with a stop at the donut shop for coffee before heading to the farmer's market in the next town. The special man in my life (we'll call him Lewis, he'd like that I think) sings songs about people living in their donut shops etc. as we drive. At the market we see a familiar character who works there every week, he is about 87 and has the best pick-up lines I've ever heard. Lewis pretends to be jealous sometimes and occasionally makes empty threats. I listen to the solo guitarist play cover songs and eat lots of fruit. When we get back there are naps and other forms of being lazy such as reading on couches.

I think the best part of Sunday though, is watching Lewis tend to his flower garden. I lay on the deck with my book and watch as he moves from plant to plant with a watering can or hose saying things like, "I don't know if this one's happy right here". In an effort to paint a picture, I'll add that he spends too much time at the gym and has several visible tattoos. Watching him care for his delicate flower garden is both adorable and strange, one of the many reasons why I adore him. That Lewis.
xoxo

Baby it's cold outside

2010-10-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

I'm currently looking out the window and all I see is gray. I want a fire and a big capey sweater immediately. I have my eye on one in particular but the price tag is equal to or greater than a month's rent so, maybe some other time. On a related note my birthday's coming up and I'm buying myself a new winter coat.
How exciting...

Forever21

Spanish Moss (nice garters)

Sweaters found here, here, here, and here. I just wanna be cozy.

-C

Recent hearts

2010-10-02T20:22:00.000-07:00

Lately...

{Texted from my little sister where she lives}

{Near my workplace through a window}

{Outside a downtown cafe}

La Jolla shores

Sent via phone from a dear friend

{I miss}

xoxo

-C

Photo diary

2010-10-01T19:07:00.000-07:00

There was a post-summer heat wave and it made me feel suffocated. I think it's finally come to an end. Truth is I love the mild and predictable temperatures one usually associates with fall even if that includes coastal fog and crisp evenings. Yesterday at dusk I found the storm-like weather to be the most perfect end to an otherwise mundane Thursday. The air was: Thick, smokey, cold. I felt huge raindrops land on any exposed skin and my ponytail whipped against my cheeks with each gust of wind. The shoreline was littered with beautiful seaweed, driftwood, rocks, and birds. I spent the better part of the evening zoning out to whatever was coming through my headphones and combing through the rocks for sea glass. I found some pretty blues and had a little mermaid moment as I came across that old spoon.

xoxo

-C

W mag

2010-09-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

September issue

Today I love

2010-09-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

The lovely and adorable Drew Barrymore in Oct. Harper's Bazaar.

"He's the cat's pajamas. I couldn't love, respect, admire, and enjoy that individual more than I do. It would be physically impossible for me to have any more giggly joy at this person"

-DB,on her bf. Aw.

The heart shadow on my car's seat.

Artist Hans Stofer. "Sweetheart"

xoxo,

-C

Life imitating art

2010-09-28T19:33:00.000-07:00

Cake Window {Seven Cakes} WT

Wayne Thiebaud has created beauty from the ordinary, something many great artists have in common. The whimsical color choices and unique qualities of his work always inspire me. For a recent drawing class assignment we were asked to set up a few man-made objects of interest next to a lamp and make record of shifts in value (shade). I am very green when it comes to both working with charcoal, and attempting to make something look three-dimensional on a 2D surface so I can see hours of practice in my future. For my first attempt, however, I was inspired by this

{eight lipsticks}

And ended up with this

In comparison to the rest of my class I have a lot to learn in terms of value scale since I somehow completely eliminated anything upwards of 50% saturation (all gray no black) but I kind of prefer a softer look to my drawings anyway. Oh yeah, I know what everyone else's homework looks like because each week we are forced to display them on the wall for a group critique session.

It's exactly what it sounds like.

xoxo,

-C

p.s. A lot of the group commentary is actually positive, mostly because people don't want to risk not being bffs by slamming your crappy art. I really try to learn from the classmate critiques though. For example, "this drawing doesn't have any space for me to move around in". Noted sir, noted. I'll work on that...

BB

2010-09-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

I was looking for photos from a Brigitte Bardot-esque spread for LOVE magazine but came across the following images instead. I'll keep looking. (above, the real Brigitte)

Harper's Bazaar 2006

Vogue Germany 2010

AA

2010-09-24T07:01:00.000-07:00

I was walking downtown the other day and passed the wide-open doors of American Apparel. Sadly, I had a destination and couldn't put my best efforts into window shopping but I couldn't help but notice the muted tones that always catch my eye: pale pink, gray, nude etc. With a little (very little) online research I found an entire page dedicated to lace.

What? I guess they do carry more than just metallic leggings, unisex pullovers, neon wristbands and stretchy bodysuits.

Very interesting

-C

Art lessons

2010-09-23T08:33:00.000-07:00

The other night in art class my teacher said to us,

"you have to draw a little bit of everything before you can draw a lot of anything".

He was talking about graphite and paper of course. He meant you have to pay attention to placement or else your final product, the drawing, will be a mash-up of ill proportioned figures. He meant you should carefully mark up areas ahead of time, plan your composition. Don't take your still life assignments one vase at a time.

I, however, started thinking about this simple statement since it made so much sense to me in terms of drawing. It also made sense in terms of life. Usually if I'm feeling a little blue or overwhelmed I can trace it back to this tendency to focus on what's immediately in front of me while somehow ignoring every other thing in the world. If I tried to draw a basket of fruit without observing it's relationship to surrounding objects, it would likely end up much too large, taking up too much space. I think this can also be summed up by saying "keep the big picture in mind", don't lose sight of the desired result, and wait to make any permanent marks until you're sure they're in the right place.

-C

Fashion week #2

2010-09-22T07:21:00.000-07:00

More favorites from New York. For whatever reason I want to see the collections of every single designer now that I've started clicking through them. My curiosity has made this process surprisingly time consuming.

Derek Lam

Elise Overland (all 3. love)

Emilio de la Morena

Erin Fetherston

Felder Felder

That would be D-F, very much narrowed down.

xo,

-C

Underneath it all

2010-09-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

I am a sucker for all things pretty. Sheer, flouncy, lacey, bow-adorned things especially. I am able to control impulses to buy most of the time because I have a very practical side that comes in handy but I just love how it looks. Especially some of the vintage inspired underthings that are popping up more and more.

Carine Gilson Gabrielle silk camisole, $675
Carine Gilson Silk-satin and lace shorts, $435
3.1 Phillip Lim Tap Shorts, $75
O Lingerie French Knickers, 13 GBP
Fleur't Lolita lace bralet, $50
KRISTINA TI - SLEEVE BRA, 112 EUR
La Perla Inverno Greta balconette bra, $225
Jean Yu Eden silk-chiffon triangle bra, $320

Treasure hunts

2010-09-20T09:03:00.000-07:00

A little Sunday morning trip to the flea market with my mama last weekend. I love to scavenge*.

I was told this is a silverware holder. I have a drawer for that so...paintbrush keeper/dryer it is.

Colorful clutch since mine are mostly black

Powder case. Made in England, it still had the original papers and blotter in it

fancy clip mirror. Maybe I'll start wearing lipstick.

The boxes filled with misc. jewelry and broken parts are a favorite.

Neglected napkin rings that will soon be very functional, upcoming project involving scarf organization (it's getting cold!)

Grand total $11.50

xoxo,

-C

*World English Dictionary: SCAVENGE

1. to search for (anything usable) among discarded material

Book report #6

2010-09-19T11:41:00.000-07:00

Images from The Wedding Dress

xo,

-C

Project management

2010-09-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

More jewelry organization. I've been very inspired lately since I see these beautiful displays everywhere, yet my necklaces hang sadly from thumbtacks in my closet.

yes thumbtacks.

white paint, white nails, crochet trim + fabric glue, little round hooks, string

Now pretty on the wall. Good.

And then there's this drawer...

and this hideous thing...

+ white paint (silver upholstery tacks for fun)

Much more better.

love

-C

Fashion week

2010-09-16T16:00:00.000-07:00

Browsing through the Spring 2011 collections from NY fashion week but I only got through the C's for far.

Favorites...

1. Anna Sui

2. Badgley Mischka

3. Bebe

4. Christian Cota

5. Cynthia Steffe

The fact that my favorites are mostly pale shades is completely coincidental.

-C

black heart

2010-09-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

V magazine Fall 2010

On display

2010-09-15T06:46:00.000-07:00

Jewelry is pretty. I see no reason for it to be crammed onto a binder ring along with hair ties/safety pins/miscellaneous objects with holes (see below, I removed misc. items for photo purposes)

SO I got rid of this ^ and gathered a few things ...

small wooden plaque, pretty fabric, good fabric glue

2" nails, small embellishments made the nails less...industrial.

A little paint too

more pretty

I'm going to return the hair ties to the binder ring and throw it in a drawer (because they do serve a purpose other than holding stacks of paper together) and now my rings have a sunny little home base on my dresser. Next project: necklaces.

-C

If I only had a heart

2010-09-14T15:17:00.000-07:00

If I only had a heart dress by Alexandra Grecco

(on etsy) aka Alexandra Greggo if you saw this on Splendora like I just did. It's OK, people spell my name wrong all the time.

More by her...

xoxo

-C

B&W Brigitte

2010-09-11T11:38:00.000-07:00

I really like the look of old photos of Brigitte Bardot. Maybe it's her doe eyes and big white teeth? Who knows.

-C

A pound of bricks a pound of feathers.

2010-09-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

I've always liked the soft, delicate look of feathers. I bought these recently and even though they kind of get in the way a lot I'm starting to love the big earring thing again.

and then there's this thing...

(I want it?)

Canopies are always a much better idea in pictures than in real life. Oh well.

-C

Happy place

2010-09-07T15:37:00.000-07:00

Everyone has a different idea about what happiness is. There are certain things in life that never let me down and always bring a smile to my face.

1. This song. See above.

2. Coffee from the donut shop on my street. Don't ask me why it's the best but it is because yesterday I drove across town to get my hands on it even though I was literally ten yards away from a fancy coffee shop on the west side. I like the nice sugary smell in there and I like seeing the same three old guys everyday always talking about "the war".

3. Gardenia or peppermint anything.

4. Wednesdays. Every Wednesday there is a farmer's market across the street from my place of employment (another thing that makes me happy, my job). Sitting in traffic on my way home is a lot less horrendous when I have some watermelon juice and a bag of peaches.

5. Beach combing. I can't tell you how many times I've gone running with good intentions, only to spend an hour and a half looking for sea glass and never breaking a sweat.

6. My dolphin ring.

7. Any time I get to be with my family, especially now that I have a beautiful nephew and niece and both of my sisters live out of town.

8. A bottle of wine, board games and some girlfriends. Usually leads to laughing so hard it hurts.

9. That freedom-soon Friday feeling.

10. Organizing. There's something meditative about bringing order to an otherwise chaotic drawer/closet/life situation.

11. New magazines in the mailbox. Good old regular mail is still more fun, it's like getting presents.

12. Notes from my boyfriend, being cozy in his sweatshirts, his ridiculous dancing, the story of how we met, his mismatched tattoos, food he cooks, the little songs he makes up...pretty much anything that has to do with him.

I highly suggest keeping a running list of stuff that makes you happy.

-C

Sea glasses

2010-09-06T22:30:00.000-07:00

I bought some wine glasses for $1 and put my shells in them. They look pretty on my windowsill

-C

Full circle

2010-09-04T16:37:00.000-07:00

Since the original objective of this blog was to find and post images of hearts, I thought I should present this photo. I was 6 or 7 here and obviously not concerned with wearing appropriate clothing or roller skates that actually fit me (where are my pants? and that can't be safe). I will, however, defend the puff painted teddy bear t-shirt and those heart shaped glasses. I'm a girl who knows what she likes.

With that said, I'd like to bring attention to the re-appearance of these heart glasses in recent years and I'm happy to report you can still purchase them. (at planet blue for example) Oh wait...they're SOLD OUT. I guess people know a good thing when they see it.

love and sunshine,

-C

W

2010-09-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

W mag August 2010

Outside the box

2010-09-02T16:02:00.000-07:00

2010 has been a year of trying new things. It started with enrolling myself in ballet class in February which turned out to be a wonderful and challenging (somewhat impossible) experience. Although I never perfected my pirouette or learned to appreciate pink tights, I did step gracefully out of my comfort zone for a few hours every Saturday. There have been several other instances in the past 9 months where I have also let my heart lead instead of my fear of failing.

Most recently though, I decided to take a drawing class. My local community college happens to have a brand new visual and performing arts center complete with gorgeous buildings and outdoor sculptures made from old instrument cases and wire. My first class was Monday and the second I arrived on campus I knew I was in the art department. There were girls with rainbow hair and custom chucks, the boys were tatted, patched up and pony tailed. I saw fashion forward waifs, chained up rocker chicks, and boys with guitars scattered throughout the lawns. In my class was a girl wearing a tie with a climber's carabiner laced through her strappy silver heels. This was a place I could let my hair down.

During the first lecture my instructor mentioned both Degas and Matisse, two of my favorite artists and also said a few times, "you will not succeed in this class if you're afraid to look like a fool". This made me nervous at first but later I understood. What can we accomplish if we are afraid of making mistakes? Inevitably we will. My instructor proved this point during last night's class by making us practice continuous contour drawing which involves drawing an object without lifting your pencil or even looking at your drawing until you decide it's finished. We drew our hands so I'll spare you by not scanning my mutant creations and posting them here. I can honestly say I ran full force into the assignment and thoroughly enjoyed my hideous drawings. Most people threw theirs away but I think I'll hold on to mine for a few days.

xoxo

-C

Janine Antoni (pictured above during a performance art piece)

Butterfly Kisses.

Cover Girl Thick Lash mascara on paper. 29 3/4" x 30"

Daydreams lately

2010-08-29T14:51:00.000-07:00

I'm not hard to please, my daydreams don't often consist of faraway tropical locations or extravagant pampering. I just want to spend one of these inevitably gray & foggy SC days in a silky chemise and a big cozy chunky sweater without obligations. I want to do...just...whatever I want. All I require is comfort and maybe a few extras (coffee/bf/books/pillows/heat source)
Is that too much to ask?

I can't think of a better clothing combination to lounge in

-C

a good little office

2010-08-26T23:03:00.000-07:00

This week's hearts are from the pages of a very old children's book.

I'm employed by a non-profit organization which serves people with disabilities and each month we hold an on-site book sale so there are always plenty of interesting, vintage, donated reads lying around. The proceeds go towards the department I work in which is a community-based day program for adults. As with every positive and fun work environment, pranks take place from time to time. Certain people who attend this program find it hilarious and entertaining to place unexpected objects (rubber bands/candy wrappers/puppets) around staff desks. Today there was a giant book on my chair instead. Getting punked at work might look a little different around these parts, but in some small way it makes me feel loved.

Sending out wishes for a wonderful end to your work week

-C

Lace me up

2010-08-24T19:39:00.000-07:00

KENNY 5709 BLACK SILK LACE COMBO BLOUSON TOP, 133 GBP

Paul & Joe Festi lace mini skirt, $590

Lace Runner Shorts, $60

Alexander McQueen Knuckle Duster box clutch, $2,295

Mink Lace Scarf, 12 GBP

Givenchy Leather and Lace Dress

I've been into lace since my tea party days. Although I think the majority of lacey items I own should be worn only under other articles, I love the way it looks as outerwear too. I tend to lean towards very feminine clothing so to avoid looking like I'm actually going to a tea party I like to wear lace with something more casual like denim. So pretty.

-C

Wrapped around my finger

2010-08-24T18:53:00.000-07:00

Lately I find myself slowing as I pass jewelry stores to look at rings (no, not the kind with diamonds) I'm talking about big statmenty finger sculptures. I have a few favorites including this one, which seems to get some negative attention but that doesn't make me love it any less. I really like the double ringed structure like that of this one I got from forever21 for a whopping $3.80.

I guess the brass knuckles thing appeals to me more than it should. Here are some other favorites.

Some more...

Loree Rodkin Lacy Bondage Ring, 10,000 GBP
Yves Saint Laurent Arty metal and enamel ring, $195

Daisy Knights Lornie oxidized silver feather ring, $285

Palm Feather Ring, 5,570 GBP

Alex Monroe Ruthenium-plated sterling silver crow feather ring, $290

Oversize Bow Ring, $25

Bird and Rose Ring, $12

Greenwich Jewelers - Shaesby 18k Yellow Gold Lemon Citrine Ring, $425

Halleh 18-karat gold shield ring, $1,880

Alkemie + Double Flower Ring, $110

$10,000 what? A girl can dream
love
-C

A heart in my book

2010-08-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

I recently rediscovered my love of reading. I love the far away places my imagination takes me to when prompted. I actually get a little sad when I finish a book because I know I will never be returning to those exact places again. When you read you're taking black and white pages and turning them to vivid worlds in your mind, worlds that are half the author's and half your own. I love that we are able to do this so easily without the aid of images or even detailed discriptive language. Because we all have a completely unique and vast collection of memories to pull from, every time you read a book you're painting pictures that are truly yours alone. I'm currently reading the same 1,000+ page *book as my sweetheart but I know his characters and views of the city don't look the same as mine and they might not even be similar. Reading is an escape to a place known only by the reader. There's something kind of wonderful about that.

-C

*Stephen King's Under the Dome. A bit twisted and lot violent, not my typical pick but strangely I can't put it down.

But now you're runnin' away with my heart

2010-08-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

singles, 1992

A little classic early nineties to bring it back to my childhood. I love it when old looks become new again but I'm OK with leaving some things behind. With that said I'm sure some supermodel will make stretch velvet, chokers, color block blazers and vampy makeup look cool again soon enough. I couldn't walk down this memory lane without mentioning my favorite part of 1990, Pretty Woman. I attempted to be Vivian for Halloween last year but I eventually gave up on my extensive search for a blue & white velvet stripper ensemble. I happen to know how to sew, so I may be starting a new and extra classy project in the near future. My mama would be so proud to know I am using the valuable domestic skills she taught me for good.

"Take care a you"
-C

la la la love

2010-08-20T19:34:00.000-07:00

Happy weekend

Hearts & kissses

-C

Friday the 13th

2010-08-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

It's not like my Friday evenings are usually fast-paced or anything, but last night was especially relaxing. Luckily the special man in my life just happens to enjoy weekend lounging as much as I do. We went to our spot to read books and drink coffee, for some wonderful reason they had projected dirty dancing on the wall and dimmed the lights. I found a well-lit cozy nook but was hopelessly distracted anyway. Sometimes the simple things in life like holding hands while "I had the time of my life" plays softly in the background can make you feel the best. It was not an un-lucky day at all.

love

-C

In the pages

2010-08-10T19:26:00.000-07:00

I used to spend a lot of my time and earnings purchasing magazines and flipping through them. I especially loved the foreign versions of my favorites (British Elle, Australian Vogue etc.) At some point I sort of abandoned the habit but recently went through a huge pile just so I could eliminate it from my bedroom floor. I love compiling mental wish lists and using the photos as inspiration for paintings or other projects. These photos are some favorites from issue 10 of the UK's LULA. Click around their website for a few film versions of their photo shoots, so fun!

(found some hearts)

Big kiss,

Dahlias & Degas

2010-08-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I visited the de Young in San Francisco to see a French impressionism exhibit from the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. Needless to say I was excited and completely overwhelmed when I was there, walking around over 100 amazing paintings close enough to see each detail and brushstroke. There was one painting I was particularly delighted to see by my favorite artist from this time period, Edgar Degas. The Dancing Lesson was in the last room we walked through and worth the wait. After viewing so many pictures and reading about his work, seeing the actual canvas was incredible and I had to stand there for a long time to take it all in. There were also paintings by Manet, Monet, Renoir, Caillebotte, Sisley, Cézanne, and a very special and famous work by Whistler (even though he is American, he traveled and painted in France during this time.) After the museum we walked around Golden Gate park to the Dahlia garden and had lunch in a room with windows for walls by the foggy beach. A day I'll never forget.

The Dancing Lesson, Edgar Degas (85x75cm)

(some photos of the garden, so many pretty dahlias. I think my favorites are the ones called so happy)

xoxo,