tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63671712535055500022024-03-13T14:45:40.744-05:00Keeping Dallas WeirdSince 2008AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.comBlogger168125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-33240592985278237252011-08-11T08:38:00.003-05:002011-08-11T09:34:38.130-05:00Waiting"Is it fall yet?"
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<br />"No."
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<br />"..."
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<br />"How about now?"
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<br />You're going to have to excuse me while I get this out of my system. I think we're at.. what, 40 days in a row of 100+ temperatures? 41? Anyway, I'm close. And we're just a day away from tying the all-time record of the longest such streak. It finally starts to really fry one's brain. Like say, the first time you get in the car and see 105 on the temp gauge and think, "Ah, we're having a cool day!"
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<br />College football season is soclose and I can't wait to have friends over once it's cool enough to hang in the side yard. And grill. And run my oven. And so I'm just <i>waiting</i>. Waiting for fall. Indulge me, won't you?
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<br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3104/3098949065_c90b545eb3.jpg">
<br />At my dad's house in Louisiana.
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<br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2314/2172775458_a87abc2d91.jpg">
<br />Another one at dad's.
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<br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2794/4222687099_4d16d26cd7.jpg">
<br />Shake Shack, Madison Square Park, New York City.
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<br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2557/4146306994_5a22583a6d.jpg">
<br />At the Dallas Arboretum.
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<br /><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1288/1326671702_551a1f29b5.jpg">
<br />My living room (This'll be my first football season with HDTV!!!)
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<br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5100/5409960862_b926befa4e.jpg">
<br />State Fair of Texas (an October occurrence)
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<br />It's just around the corner right? Maybe six weeks? I can make it. I think. Also, did you know that Florence + the Machine did a cover of 'Addicted to Love'? I love it.
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<br /><iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8ESzZrrys18" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-33621049772390187972011-07-28T14:59:00.004-05:002011-07-28T15:05:34.877-05:00Slow down you crazy childOnce this song spoke to me so loudly and clearly, and it was lovely having it come up on the iPod shuffle today. Seems like ages since I've heard it. Now I've kicked off a whole Billy Joel afternoon (possibly weekend - you never know with these things). <br /><br />"You can get what you want or you can just get old." <i>Indeed.</i><br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oZdiXvDU4P0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-49101003026509624862011-07-26T14:14:00.003-05:002011-07-26T14:23:24.085-05:00Fan girlThree down, one more traveling weekend to go. Gah! My plants (and my pocketbook) have suffered tremendously, but otherwise I am doing A-OK, and having loads of fun.<br /><br />Case in point.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6015/5967401579_3dc39c45c8.jpg"><br /><br />What is going on with my hair there?? But really, Philly was a blast. It helped that a cool front came through the day I arrived, so <a href="http://hellopa.wordpress.com/">Lauren</a> and I had splendid weather to work with. By the time I got up to NYC, it was drippy hot again (as in, you just <i>drip</i> sweat). Bleh. But I made the most of it and had a great time.<br /><br />Harry Potter was brilliant, and I continue to be a total 15-year-old fan girl over Matthew Lewis. That's Neville for those not in the know. He went from this...<br /><br /><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6029/5978399273_97e0e57a40.jpg"><br /><br />To this...<br /><br /><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6128/5978956922_c0d89f56de.jpg"><br /><br />Is that amazing, or is that amazing? I mean, I think it's simply amazing. What a handsome bloke. He's 22, so a bit young for me. But really, omg you guys, it's NEVILLE! I gotta say, it took a while for the shock to wear off. Yet another reason for me to move to the UK. Also, I really need to go see that movie again.<br /><br />And re Amy Winehouse. With all her issues, I'm not sure we would have ever gotten another album out of her. But obviously, now we know for certain we won't. I've been listening to <i>Back to Black</i> a lot since I heard of her death. But this original demo of "Love is a Losing Game" is the one song of hers that gets played the most on my iPod. Such a beautiful voice.<br /><br /><iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/uIeyfM-6QTg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-22401065488998256022011-06-28T15:54:00.005-05:002011-06-28T17:00:59.136-05:00On the road againJune is almost gone. How does that happen? When school wraps up, and you look out at the expanse of June and July, it seems as though it'll go on forever. And then, in some strange way, time speeds up and suddenly it's July and ohlook! suddenly it's August and gah! it's over! The only comfort being that the weather is intolerable, so the sooner we get through summer, the sooner our electric bills will come back down.<br /><br />A nice thing about summer in Dallas is the crape myrtles blooming. One thing this town ain't lacking is crape myrtles. I was trying to give my dad directions to my place by pointing out that you turn left where there's a big pink crape myrtle on the corner but really, they're <i>on every corner</i>. Not helpful. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6024/5881983705_0132c48aae.jpg"><br /><br />It does make my front walk look like this, though. Isn't that nice? Like someone just got married on my sidewalk. We had one in our front yard when I was growing up too. They spit on you, you know. Like the faintest drizzle when you're standing underneath. It's nice.<br /><br />So back in May, my mom helped me rearrange my living room. It was previously organized to accommodate a huge TV cabinet that I'd had for 5 years that was so large it would only fit in one place. It was wonky. So we finally ditched it, I got a new TV stand (and a new TV!), and now, this.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5157/5881983935_93a2ce221b.jpg"><br /><br />That's right, I can watch TV and bake at the same time. It's the best ever. I love being able to see the TV from the kitchen. My place in Austin was like that too. That's oatmeal cookie dough by the way. Yup.<br /><br />But back to the summer and how it flies by. For me, July really is going to be a whopper. I'm traveling for <i>four</i> consecutive weekends. Can you believe it? What an idiot. First to Houston for what will no doubt be an epic house-warming party, and to finally, finally tour the <a href="http://www.bluebell.com/">Blue Bell</a> Creamery. All my life I've wanted to do this, but since the tours are on weekdays only, and the Creamery is in <i>Brenham</i>, it was just hard. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2348/2363261526_a3199ae75c.jpg"><br /><br />Follow that truck!<br /><br />Then the following Wednesday I'm off to the East Coast to visit friends in Philly and in NYC. And on Thursday night, at one minute past the stroke of midnight, my friend <a href="http://hellopa.wordpress.com/">Lauren</a>, myself, and a theater full of totally hopped-up, spazzed out of their minds Harry Potter fans will witness history. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5240/5881983227_248f8e09b4.jpg"><br /><br />Oh the agony of seeing it all end. How will we survive?? Rereading the books helps. I'm doing that now in my run-up to the movie coming out. I still turn each page like I can't imagine what's coming next. Genius. I'm looking at you, Rowling.<br /><br />Then the next two weekends will be spent wearing my Auntie Manda hat and traveling to see these kiddos. And a few other people too.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5268/5802350806_74f8ffb565.jpg"><br /><br />Rock star Will...<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5066/5881983151_5ff989ff63.jpg"><br /><br />Beautiful Mary...<br /><br /><object width="560" height="349"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/D1iuZ2IzNRM?version=3&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/D1iuZ2IzNRM?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="560" height="349" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object><br /><br />And this deceptively adorable little girl. Just watch her, though. The second you look the other way, Suzy will rub Vaseline jelly into your mattress. It's true. Ask her mom.<br /><br />Then I'm home! Phew! Can you imagine anything crazier? I can't wait, but I'm also exhausted just thinking about it. Does anyone else have superfun summer plans?AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-53002564636885245082011-05-22T11:04:00.006-05:002011-06-28T17:06:58.002-05:00On tapWhat's on tap? These days, if you really want to know what I'm into on any particular day, it's on <a href="http://pinterest.com/mandat">Pinterest</a>. It's terribly addictive and fun. For me anyway. So let's look there to see what the hell I've been up to. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2779/5746697423_2a434c4acf_o.jpg"><br /><br />It all starts here. That's The Doctor and Amy. That is, Matt Smith and Karen Gillan. First of all, <i>yes</i> I'm now watching <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/doctorwho/dw"><i>Doctor Who</i></a>. Yes, I believe that adds tremendously to my nerd quotient. It's nothing like what I imagined or pictured from the version I was exposed to in the 80s. It's actually very rad. What can I say. <br /><br />Also one of the guys who does <i>Sherlock</i> is the driving force behind it now, so that really helped me to dip a toe in. You guys know <a href="http://keepingaustinweirdsince2008.blogspot.com/2011/01/back-in-saddle.html">how much I loved <i>Sherlock</i></a>. The Doctor being super adorably cute also helps. It's British, which gives anything a boost in my eyes. And I suppose Haney is also to blame. She's my Brit/nerd enabler. So yeah.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5266/5747246024_066764512e_o.jpg"><br /><br />But more importantly, Karen's <i>hair</i>. A little less drastic in this picture. Those of you who knew me in the mid 90s (maybe 3 who read this blog?) might recall my fascination with going red inspired due to another fabulous lady in a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_X-Files">sci-fi TV show</a>. Indeed, 15 years later, it has struck me again.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5024/5747245984_0f7039de6b_o.jpg"><br /><br />More red inspiration. I've got a whole <a href="http://pinterest.com/mandat/ginger/">pinboard</a> of redheads (or gingers, as I and the Brits like to call them). What do you think? A little more natural, yeah? I think I can pull this off. I'm waiting for the school year to end first but will probably do it in early June. Summer red. Yes.<br /><br />What else is on Pinterest? Let's see. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2170/5746697269_7fc3ba5f9a_o.jpg"><br /><br />This picture of Paul Rudd knitting me a sweater.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2800/5746697205_a1a8441038_o.jpg"><br /><br />This awesome Duck Hunt-inspired picture by <a href="http://www.aledlewis.com/">Aled Lewis</a>, a London-based designer and illustrator.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2218/5747245786_3be6dede5f_o.jpg"><br /><br />And a recipe for a <a href="http://www.acozykitchen.com/stands-toasted-marshmallow-milkshake/">toasted marshmallow shake</a>. Which I am going to make. Very soon.<br /><br />Also craft projects and pretty home interiors galore. It's fun stuff. And now, blog formula dictates I leave you with a song. The new Fleet Foxes album is very cool stuff. I ended up liking it much more than I thought I would at first glance, so I went and saw them live a couple of weeks ago. Check it.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="349"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/87TB7GlJ3ZA?version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/87TB7GlJ3ZA?version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="349" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-38209423355170833772011-04-15T12:51:00.005-05:002011-04-15T13:29:16.274-05:00Li'l SebastianFirst of all, yes I did some sort of weird adjusting of the layout of the blog. I realized there were still some computers/browsers that would not adjust the size of the photos as I <i>instructed</i> it to do and I just don't know enough about html to figure out why or to know how to fix it. So I just changed the whole layout instead. Obvs I still need to fix the banner and I may tinker more. Just haven't had the time. <br /><br />Meantime, happy happy birthday to my awesome nephew Will! He's the best. This is what I did to his present with my new alphabet stamps. Oh my gosh, you guys, I love stamps.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5262/5594503170_f69c800b41.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Then I put it in a box and sent it off on its journey half-way around the world. I hope he's having a great day!<br /><br />Also discovered recently that I still have in some dusty corner of my brain the lyrics to the entirety of Fiona Apple's 1996 epic album <i>Tidal</i>. Ahh, high school.<br /><br /><object width="400" height="349"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/FFOzayDpWoI?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/FFOzayDpWoI?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="349"></embed></object><br /><br />Every. single. word. I suspect <i>this</i> is the reason why I haven't been able to memorize my bank account number in 6 years. wtf?<br /><br />Lastly, I just love this in every way:<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5228/5593915371_d3152ca97d.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />Are you guys watching <i>Parks and Rec</i>? Generally I'm so behind in my TV watching, but that show is just a big ol' ball of joy for me. What can you say about that cast?? And when they add to it, they add so wisely. I'm looking at you Adam Scott.AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-70518435700557537212011-03-30T18:36:00.006-05:002011-03-31T09:10:27.717-05:00Stamp of Approval: SpringOh my gosh, just realized I am coming dangerously close to ending March without a blog post! That would just not do. So what the hell have I been up to this whole, long month??<br /><br />My plans to get all up on the internet during Spring Break, with photo editing and catching up on blogs, etc., were a bit derailed with a freelance project. But that = money so hey, I'm not complaining. And gosh, the weather was just so nice that week too. Mom came up the latter part of the week and we went to the <a href="http://www.dallasarboretum.org/">'retum</a> to see the <a href="http://www.dallasarboretum.org/DallasBlooms/index.htm">Dallas Blooms</a> festival in all its glory. And, apparently, <i>so did all of Dallas</i>. It was so pretty though. Somehow last year I missed the cherry blossoms, but not this year.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5133/5575870752_22f45c2983_z.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />So fluffy and white! Don't let those crowds keep you away, folks. Go down and park at Gaston and Garland and ride the bus like the cool kids do.<br /><br />What else... the Kenya photo editing continues at its lovely snail's pace.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5173/5500923603_2c226ef73c_z.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />This is my new computer wallpaper. I know I know, it sucks that I'm so slow posting them, and it kinda makes the reveal super anticlimactic. But I rather enjoy the editing process, I find. And I'm getting to relive every inch of the trip, bit by bit. It's like my version of making a scrapbook.<br /><br />Also in March, I became obsessed with this show.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5015/5575870456_51790dba76_o.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Okay, that's a publicity photo, all in character and official and stuff.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5298/5575283115_ba5f7d9090_z.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Oooh, that's better. I love these three! As a dear friend wrote, "The 3 leads are great, esp. Russell Tovey's ears." And yeah, there's a <a href="http://www.syfy.com/beinghuman">US version</a> of <i>Being Human</i>, but of course I've sworn loyalty to the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/beinghuman/">UK version</a> (and the Brit jonesing continues). Get on over to BBC America and set those DVRs. Or better yet, start from the beginning on DVD. It has the Amanda Stamp of Approval (TM). <br /><br />Speaking of my Stamp of Approval, March also saw me start listening to the <a href="http://www.lykkeli.com/">new Lykke Li</a> album, which includes this awesome song.<br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="400" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vZYbEL06lEU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />What's going on in that video? It's not very spring-like with all that snow. And of course she can't catch him in those shoes, what was she thinking? Good grief. But on a warm day, with the sunroof open and blasting from the speakers... trust me, it works.<br /><br />Okay, I think that's just about all the fun the month of March can handle. Mmmmokay, maybe a little more.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5172/5575870362_18380ff91d_z.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />There you go. Happy spring, y'all!AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-42975035120673480602011-02-19T17:41:00.005-06:002011-02-19T18:32:46.220-06:00The fashion report: KenyaHi everyone! The fall 2011 collections have been showing in New York this past week, and I know, like me, you've been pouring over the photos to see what hot clothes and trends are hitting the runways. Or.. not...? Yeah, that's probably just me. I love fashion week. Being far away from it and just pouring over the photos on the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/pages/fashion/index.html">NYTimes Fashion pages</a> and imagining what I'd buy if I had a lot of money and fabulous places to wear said clothes. <br /><br />I owe my love for fashion week to watching eight seasons of <i>Project Runway</i>. And everything I know about couture, I learned from Rachel Zoe and her reality show, my greatest guilty pleasure. So when I stumbled upon this dress from the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/style/fashionweek/runway.html#/fall_2011_thakoon/slide_show/">Thakoon collection</a> last week, it was like (as Rachel would say), "I die." <br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5177/5459370289_23207f124d.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />Gee, besides being cute, that fabric looks super familiar. According to the <a href="http://runway.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/02/13/rope-line-for-the-elevator/"><i>New York Times</i></a>, Thakoon Panichgul called this plaid “Masai plaid.” As in the Masai of Kenya. Oh yeah. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5171/5459976640_fef2a2b82e.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Here is my Masai blanket (one of two) that I brought back from my trip to Kenya. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5095/5459976360_922a461129.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />And here is the Thakoon show. Yep.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5174/5459414091_3674844707.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />The Masai really do wear and use these blankets. They come in lots of different colors, but predominately plaids or stripes, and in shades of red, orange, blue and black. In the photo are our guides from the safari, Ratik and James, in theirs. You also find them in stacks at the tourist market for sale relatively inexpensively, so they're a popular souvenir. Or, you know, you can buy the Thakoon version for a touch more money. Anyone want to craft me a dress?AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-82776716164640812182011-01-08T20:48:00.005-06:002011-01-08T22:08:30.850-06:00Back in the saddleIt does fry my brain a bit that I just returned from Kenya a little over a week ago. In fact, a week and one day. It seems like ages. I returned directly into the thick of the busiest time of year in my job. I knew this.. and expected it. Doesn't make it any easier, though. I am beaten and tired, head hurts, back aches, etc. And the fun continues on Monday.<br /><br />To console myself, I just placed the most awesome online order ever. A good friend gave me a gift card to Barnes and Noble for my birthday, and I've been scheming over what to treat myself to for months. The items are as follows:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sherlock-Season-One-Benedict-Cumberbatch/dp/B004132HZS"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5337480563_198f598297.jpg" "height=400"></a><br /><br />Um, I'm not sure where I start with this one. Like, omg sooo good, and stuff. I watched the three episodes that made up 'Season 1' of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sherlock_%28TV_series%29">new BBC adaptation</a> of the Sherlock Holmes stories back when they aired here in the US - in late October and early November - and I'm still reeling. They brought the famous detective into modern times, and hit it with a dose of fantastic casting, like dear Martin Freeman (aka Tim from the UK's <i>The Office</i>) as Dr. Watson. Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock is amazeballs. And oh yeah, the best casting ever for the character that arrives at the end of the third and final episode. I won't spoil it.<br /><br />Of note, the Sherlock obsession dovetailed nicely with my whole recent psycho obsession with British television. I'm so very fortunate to live in Dallas because our PBS station is so Brit TV friendly, they even have a blog devoted to it called <a href="http://tellyspotting.org/">Tellyspotting</a>. Heart. The last episode of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Life_on_Mars_%28TV_series%29"><i>Life On Mars</i></a> (the original UK version) just (re)aired this week and it was so so good. And tomorrow, we finally get to see <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Downton_Abbey"><i>Downton Abbey</i></a>. Swell!<br /><br />But back to my shopping.<br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wuthering-Heights-Penguin-Classics-Bront%C3%AB/dp/0141040351"><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5081/5338093346_35c93fda31.jpg" "height=400"></a><br /><br />When Penguin came out with this <a href="http://us.penguingroup.com/static/pages/classics/hardcoverclassics/index.html">series of hardcover classics</a> designed by Coralie Bickford-Smith, I swooned over all of them. To have a shelf filled with that set, they'd be such a treat to look at <i>and</i> to read (I'm ashamed at how few I actually have read). But a whole shelf is a bit costly, so I decided that eventually I'd get my hot little hands on my favorite book in this lovely edition, if nothing else. Thus, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wuthering-Heights-Penguin-Classics-Bront%C3%AB/dp/0141040351"><i>Wuthering Heights</i></a>. Isn't it pretty? <a href="http://www.cb-smith.com/">Coralie</a> is the bomb.<br /><br />And lastly...<br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Embroidery-Companion-Classic-Designs-Modern/dp/0307462358"><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5338093286_f3c4f394fd.jpg" "Height=400"></a><br /><br />I'm super embarrassed that I haven't picked up <a href="http://rosylittlethings.typepad.com/">Alicia</a>'s <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Embroidery-Companion-Classic-Designs-Modern/dp/0307462358">newest book</a> yet. I would try and find it in the book shops now and then but never had any luck, so I'm left to ordering it. I don't embroider but I've come so near to teaching myself that I've bought all the supplies, so surely it's not too far-fetched a prospect! And besides, I still love Alicia the mostest and I know what a deeply personal subject embroidery is for her, so I can't wait to pour over the pretty pictures and her warm and familiar words. And with luck, the needle and thread will come soon after. <br /><br />Goodness, what a haul. I do hope the package will arrive at my workplace during one of those moments when I'm on the verge of tears with stress and fatigue, and instantly make my day. One must plan ahead for these things.<br /><br />Also, yes indeed, there ARE photos of Africa. Alas, I do not know when I'll have them all uploaded. But it was beautiful, and I do wish I was still there, drinking a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stoney_%28drink%29">Stoney Tangawizi</a> and enjoying the lovely sunny days and cool nights. I felt calm and happy there, and far away from all that is my life, and I think that's the best that anyone can ever hope for in a vacation, no?AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-7175931391728523452010-12-08T10:15:00.005-06:002011-02-19T21:01:06.246-06:00Dreaming of sugar plumsOn a day when I could hardly bear to drag myself from bed (so much so that I slept right through my alarms), these images are doubly painful to look at. I'd love to climb back into bed right about now, but even more so, I'd love to have a cuddle with either one of these lovely gentlemen. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5252/5459794331_9cd9964546.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />Dear Rufus, tucked in his bed..<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5124/5244321776_c0dd69b384.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />..and sweetly slumbering Daniel.<br /><br />Both images from Tim Hailand's <a href="http://www.onedayinthelifeof.org/">'One Day in the Life Of'</a> project. <a href="http://www.onedayinthelifeof.org/p_One-Day-in-the-Life-of-Daniel-Radcliffe-1.html">Daniel Radcliffe</a>'s book is already available, and <a href="http://www.onedayinthelifeof.org/p_One-Day-In-The-Life-Of-Rufus-Wainwright-4.html">Rufus Wainwright</a>'s is in pre-order.<br /><br />Just a little treat for your Wednesday, sweeties. I better get back to workin' (and packin')!AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-68430366385746771062010-12-01T16:11:00.004-06:002010-12-01T17:13:28.665-06:00Round twoThis post is long overdue. And it's not just because I'm blogging so little these days. <br /><br />It has been well over a year since <a href="http://keepingaustinweirdsince2008.blogspot.com/2009/09/high-school-girls.html">I promised to return someday</a> with more photos of the golden girls lining the hallways of my workplace: a very old, all-girls, private high school. There are so many stories there, I can only theorize on a handful. As always, hit my <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mandahattan/">Flickr</a> to see more photos from this batch..<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5201/5224924262_161b7ee7c6.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />In the years 1910 and 1911, a bow fad seems to have overtaken the school. And a sort of "wings" fad with the hair. A predecessor to Farrah? Or Princess Leia? Either way, they rocked horizontal hairdos before such things were cool.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5224329141_ee1b6a77e8.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Speaking of cool, these girls from the class of 1911 would like you to know that they are infinitely cooler than you. See how their heads are tilted together? They were obviously fast friends. I can picture them sneaking ciggies after school when out of sight from the nuns.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5288/5224328883_151f4296a3.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />I suspect poor Kenneth's mum and dad were hoping for a boy. This member of the class of 1913 didn't let it faze her though. She looks like a fun, carefree kind of gal. What do you think her nickname was? Kenny? Kay? Netty? I wish we could ask her.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5224923736_2e7896ab65.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Before there was <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120032/">Romy and Michele</a>, there was Romie and Grace. Do you think they crashed their class of 1916 high school reunion too? That would have been quite the scene.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5224328561_846a50af0b.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />The girls from the class of 1923 just had a horrible time committing to bangs. And poor Gracie looks like she's channeling the bride of Frankenstein just there. Dearest girls, do put down your combs. Haven't you heard? The bob is sweeping the nation (Helen has the right idea).<br /><br />I can't believe I leave for Kenya in less than two weeks. So much to do! I believe it's a fair trade, giving up my usual beloved holiday traditions of putting up decorations, watching sappy movies, and baking pies and snack mixes, to take a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Africa. I plan to squeeze in all the holiday cheer I can before next Saturday, though. Then I'm expecting you to make up the difference. Happy Holidays from me and Peggy Lee!<br /><br /><object width="400" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aQvIi4AIwxY?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aQvIi4AIwxY?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="385"></embed></object>AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-30234139747446694402010-11-13T16:32:00.004-06:002010-11-13T19:34:12.015-06:00Bears and boys. And yarn.In this week's edition of <i>When I Have Lots of Money and a House to Decorate</i>: That's right kids, it's <a href="http://www.turnerpocockcazalet.co.uk/">polar bear wallpaper</a>.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5173365736_76bbe4350c.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Shut the front door. I know, right? It's so perfect for me. I die.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5172762357_495e3f97b9.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Fall is hitting a nice, easy pace for me. Finally. I love this season and the progression of holidays. The football on the tele. The flash of a red tree against a gray sky. The smell of my house after I've been baking or cooking. The planning of your Christmas list. Sure there's a lot to get stressed about, but that would take all the fun out of it. So why do it?<br /><br />I've been trying to find more time in my schedule to look at <i>other people's</i> blogs (perhaps should be spending more time updating my own, but oh well). And cataloging things I like on my <a href="http://pinterest.com/mandat/">pinterest</a> (you're on there, right? it's such fun). And yes, still crocheting and knitting. Thank goodness for that.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/5172762317_01c0cc8b16.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />This was my first commission project (thanks E)! Made for E's brother-in-law. E's husband liked the scarf so much (it was made for his brother), that I've been asked to make another one for his brother's partner. Awesome! I really hope they like them. It's hard to make scarves for people in Houston - too toasty down there. But I used this Rowan yarn called <a href="http://www.knitrowan.com/yarns/Summer-Tweed.aspx?testid=29">Summer Tweed</a>, made with silk and cotton. I think it's the perfect weight and so yummy.<br /><br />Oooh, this Auburn and Georgia game is quite the entertainment. And um, does anyone else have a crush on the Allstate Mayhem guy? aka Dennis from <i>30 Rock</i>? aka <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0935921/">Dean Winters</a>? Anyone?<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4112/5173365410_77e7ace94b.jpg"><br /><br />Okay, less hot there. But how can you not love Liz and Dennis?<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/5173365388_9d983365ea.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />That's better, right? I know, he's been in other shows too. I should investigate.AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-3903448625539195952010-10-30T15:01:00.005-05:002010-10-30T15:30:56.982-05:00Football SaturdayI could do without this view out my kitchen window today. What the eff!?<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/5129637446_a0e82927f7.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />About to head downstairs and make some sausage balls for E & M's Halloween party. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rachel_Berry_(Glee)">Rachel Berry</a> wig is making one more appearance this year before I stash its hairy, itchy, shedding self in a closet. I look so much better as a light brown/blonde. This experience has made that extremely clear to me.<br /><br />Then tomorrow to the Arboretum to watch the parade of adorb kiddie costumes. Then starts the countdown to Thanksgiving at mom's new place just outside Austin. Hooray! By then, the renovations should be all done and the furniture delivered. And we'll get to enjoy our first Thanksgiving together in a loooong time. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1421/5129692814_f977d270a3.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Her patio looks out over a putting green. Which means it's nice and quiet and beautiful, but also means you get the occasional surprises. Let's hope we don't end up with a golf ball in our cranberry sauce.AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-55041320380991056962010-10-03T16:26:00.007-05:002010-10-03T16:55:09.220-05:00Just because you're 30 doesn't mean you have to grow upI did it! I'm 30! I gathered with friends at a bar on Friday night to drink a toast to the decade that lies ahead. I decided I wanted a <a href="http://www.marshmallowfluff.com/pages/fluffernutter.html">Fluffernutter</a> birthday cake.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5048197211_e838a917fd.jpg" width="400" /><br /><br />That's mom lighting the candles. Peanut butter and <a href="http://www.marshmallowfluff.com/pages/homepage.html">Marshmallow Fluff</a> (which Super Target didn't have, so Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme subbed instead) on <a href="http://www.mrsbairds.com/">Mrs. Baird's</a> bread. Cut into triangles and stacked. Topped with pink icing. It was my homage to <a href="http://www.amysedarisrocks.com/">Amy Sedaris</a>. I feel like she would have approved.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5048218009_f451e9684d.jpg" /><br /><br />Have you ever had a Fluffernutter? They're amazingly delicious. I had my first one at <a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/sandwichshop">Peanut Butter and Co.</a> in Greenwich Village in New York City and have had them lurking in a corner of my brain ever since. But when do you have an excuse to make something so indulgent and obviously lacking in nutritional value? They're right up there with cookies and ice cream. And cake. How appropriate.<br /><br />So far 30 feels exactly the same as 29. Hopefully 31 will feel that way too. Also, did you know that <a href="http://keepingaustinweirdsince2008.blogspot.com/2008/10/all-things-julie.html">Julie Andrews turned 75 on Friday</a>? She looks fabulous.AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-76127510214755705582010-09-25T14:48:00.003-05:002010-09-25T14:58:57.708-05:00Final Great Achievement of my 20sI made socks!<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/5023977084_136e18b1bc.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />I took a sock class in May at the <a href="http://www.theshabbysheep.com/">Shabby Sheep</a> with my friend Katie, because I'd always wanted to learn how to make socks, and we both thought this would be a great way to learn more knitting skills and gain a bit of confidence with trying more complicated projects. <br /><br />I'm happy to report I didn't get "second sock syndrome," as they call it. I actually completed my pair. They're a little different because you're supposed to start them in exactly the same spot in the 'pattern' of the yarn so they'll stripe the same, but I was too lazy for that. And I think they look awesome anyway.<br /><br />Gotta take a sock break but I think my goal for next year is to make another pair. One pair per year, I say. Of note, Katie has finished her class pair, a second pair, and is starting a third. Way to show me up.<br /><br />Otherwise am busy getting the apartment in order for my visitors next weekend. It's nice to have friends who will travel for your birthday. XO, gals.AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-41318527987128526382010-09-21T13:30:00.003-05:002010-09-21T13:42:21.198-05:00Missing youHey there, bloggy town. I've been missing you. You been missing me?<br /><br /><a href="http://blogdelanine.blogspot.com/2010/09/amigos.html"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4113/5012564980_0bb31669c8.jpg" height="400"" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >From <a href="http://blogdelanine.blogspot.com/">Geninne's Art Blog</a>, which might be the prettiest blog ever. Illustration by the super amazing Geninne. Hopefully it'll make it onto <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/geninne">her Etsy</a>.</span><br /><br />I just ate two big cookies with my lunch. I should not have done that.AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-90661353325873020662010-08-23T21:59:00.005-05:002010-08-23T22:38:07.214-05:00In seasonAugust in Texas can be a beat down. A major b.e.a.t. d.o.w.n. Like ohmygosh can it get any hotter? Will it ever cool off again? Remember those <a href="http://keepingaustinweirdsince2008.blogspot.com/2010/02/snow-day.html">beautiful snowy days</a>? How can one place have such extreme seasons? (And hardly anything in between, mind you.)<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4922406110_3ed7e66f74.jpg" width="400" /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >(Granted, this was taken on the blacktop in the parking lot at my workplace at the hottest point of the day. The official high today was only 107. So.. yeah.)</span><br /><br />So it seems, it's understandable that every year at about this time I start going crazy for the farmers market. Because if you can't beat the heat, you may as well enjoy the fruits of its labor.<br /><br />And just like last year, I've taken to stalking the Canton peach stand at the <a href="http://www.dallasfarmersmarket.org/">Dallas Farmers Market</a>. Also into my bag over the last few weeks has gone some tomatoes (okay, a lot of tomatoes), <a href="http://keepingaustinweirdsince2008.blogspot.com/2009/09/okra-is-ok.html">okra</a>, blueberries, fresh corn, and cream peas - also known as lady peas (gonna cook those tomorrow). But most of all, lots and lots of peaches. I go crazy for them. Much the same way I used to go crazy for nectarines when I was younger. But you really can't find locally grown nectarines around here, and grocery store produce tastes like crap once you taste these peaches. So here we are. At the peach stand on Saturday morning. Like clockwork.<br /><br />Posted my <a href="http://keepingaustinweirdsince2008.blogspot.com/2009/10/late-summer-color.html">recipe for the cobbler</a> last year. And this past weekend I made <a href="http://www.ezrapoundcake.com/archives/6853">peach ice cream</a>. I think the next batch of peaches I bring home will go into the freezer so I can relive the peach joy on a colder day.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4922405914_369a3cca9a.jpg" width="400" /><br /><br />I'll look at these pictures and remember days like these, and I'm telling you, I'll probably long for them. Days when I could hear the cicadas humming outside. When little dresses and flip flops and tank tops were the uniform of choice. You think? Hrm.. Maybe.<br /><br />P.S. That's my view while I'm washing the dishes at the new place. Nice huh?<br /><br />Enjoy some Sam Cooke, y'all.<br /><br /><object height="385" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/48K5Y0421Ig?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/48K5Y0421Ig?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="400"></embed></object>AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-43987273571103945482010-08-07T23:31:00.006-05:002010-08-08T00:36:29.228-05:00Hey babyI've been meaning to do this one for a while. Just how many small tots are running around in my life these days? A LOT. Most of which, I have had a chance to visit with this summer. One even came to visit <i>me</i>. Aren't I lucky!<br /><br />I don't have any kids, not sure if I ever will, but with all these smiling faces in my life, I get my fixes on a regular basis. And then get to come home to a nice, quiet house. Yeah, it's the best of both worlds.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4465285737_7a510f66b6.jpg" width="400"><br /><br />Jillian. Big sister. Happy-go-lucky gal pal. Niece.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2700/4466062854_2d407356ee.jpg" width="400"><br /><br />Grant. Little brother. Strong arm. Sweet giggle. Nephew.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4828612485_eb815d8ed4.jpg" height="400"><br /><br />Suzy. World traveler. Great wit and loads of charm. Niece.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4012/4590600494_a4ca8d8dbc.jpg" width="400"><br /><br />James. Bearer of the name. Defier of the odds. Cousin.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2729/4501392016_1e5da16701.jpg" width="400"><br /><br />Anna. Life of the party. Girly girl. Sparkly. Friend.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4140/4859297958_983f3fefc8.jpg" width="400"><br /><br />William. Little brother. Funny boy. Easy to please. Friend.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4102/4859298212_5f2276af07.jpg" width="400"><br /><br />Allie. Big sister. Knows what she wants. And how to get it. Friend.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4865308050_ac480dee51.jpg" width="400" ><br /><br />Dominic. First born. Loves ceiling fans. Aggie. Friend.<br /><br />So, you get my drift. Many thanks to my friends and relations for taking it upon themselves to grow the population of the world. These are some very good melons.<br /><br />And before I go, you <i>are</i> listening to the new Arcade Fire album, aren't you? Cos if not, you better get on that.<br /><br /><object width="400" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1-NjNu6o6-Y&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1-NjNu6o6-Y&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="385"></embed></object>AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-23472663987535114432010-07-24T17:03:00.004-05:002010-07-24T17:15:24.310-05:00Dear readers,Ahhh! Hay you guys, what's happening? It's amazing how summer flies by you, isn't it? Despite the heat and everlasting long days, it still seems to go much too fast for my taste.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4763683771_c3bcc7d4df.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Since we last chatted, I packed up and moved into a new apartment. Also packed up my office, moved for a two week spell, then moved back, but into a different office. So. That sucked. Like, that's a lot of packing, no? Naturally I haven't finished unpacking my house or my office cos it's like, who wants to deal with that, after all that packing?<br /><br />Also have been traveling here and there. To Houston a couple times to see friends and family, and all the way to Los Angeles to see my friend Susan. W00t.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4819870254_6f090b1d24.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Next will be the other LA, Louisiana, to see family. Then hopefully I'll settle down for a bit. And maybe blog with a tad more regularity. Send me gifts and I will consider.<br /><br />XO,<br />ATAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-5601388867088706342010-06-15T22:17:00.005-05:002010-06-16T09:19:41.682-05:00A swapFirst off, I wanted to thank everyone for their kind comments, on the blog, on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mandahattan/">Flickr</a>, via email, etc. I expected it would be difficult, and the whole thing has lived up to those expectations. Time heals I suppose. But gosh, it ain't happening in a hurry. <br /><br />So what do I do when times are tough? Craft. Craft away, kids. I just packed up my friendship bracelet for <a href="http://thethingswemake.blogspot.com/2010/05/friendship-bracelet-swap-sign-up-now.html">Amy's bracelet swap</a>. She read my mind, she did. I'd just picked out some thread colors at my local craft store because I was itching to make one. I was planning to blog about my love affair with these signs of those summer camp days of yore. (<a href="http://keepingaustinweirdsince2008.blogspot.com/2009/07/romanticizing-camp.html">You know how I <i>love</i> camp.</a>) <br /><br />Next thing I knew, friendship bracelets were everywhere, and <a href="http://thethingswemake.blogspot.com/">Amy</a> had this splendid idea to swap them with new friends. I can't wait to see the one my secret friend made for me!<br /><br /><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1304/4705321948_6fc0bccc50.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Also on the crafting front, check out my couch, in my soon-to-be-no-longer living room. There's a new addition there! Long ago (<a href="http://keepingaustinweirdsince2008.blogspot.com/2008/05/over-ambitious.html">perhaps you remember</a>), I was going on about how I wanted to take this awesome horse sweater I bought in Estonia and turn it into a pillow. I also recognized my skills in this area were pretty darn lacking, and I really didn't want to ruin it in a failed pillow-making attempt. <br /><br />Meanwhile I'd started reading Alli's lovely blog <a href="http://www.onepearlbutton.com/">One Pearl Button</a> and was oohing and aahing over her astounding transformational skills when it came to old thrifted sweaters. So we worked out a deal, so-to-speak. A crafty blog swap. Except that I was making a specific request of her (turn my sweater into a pillow!) and she suggested I just surprise her in return( ... !). <br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4692557804_edfb5ab12a.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />I'd been admiring the <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/granny-square-slippers/">Granny Square Slippers pattern</a> on the <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/">Purl Bee</a> for some time (oh I just love the Bee), and since I'd made myself a different pair of crocheted slippers just last fall, I decided this would be a great opportunity to try out this pattern and create a fun swap present for Alli. Ta daa!<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4024/4691925043_db8fa29379.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />Don't worry Alli, I washed 'em before I sent them! You can't help but try them on. I gathered up some other goodies for her and put them all in the mail. (Of note, it's so easy to shop for someone when they have a blog!) And in return I got a super-spiffy pillow to add to my sofa. <br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4704678439_7267bd88dc.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Wow, thanks Alli! I love love love it.<br /><br />Alright, who's next?AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-70693409038952661752010-06-06T16:38:00.003-05:002010-06-06T20:36:18.357-05:00My boyAh, what do I say. My cat passed away June 3, 2010. I've had him for 17 and a half years. More than half my own life. I'm devastated but muddling through. It was time.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4676615870_60b5109df4.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />I was 12 when we brought CJ home. A tiny furry kitten from the Humane Society in Fort Worth. One of our earlier memories of him was that we were out in the backyard and decided to let him roam around out there. He was still quite small. He found a hole in the fence and immediately went into the neighbor's yard and came face to face with Acey, our neighbor's giant chow. It was a trip. I was screaming, Acey was barking, and my mom was attempting to scale the fence. The neighbors (very nice people) came out and handed the little kitten back over to us. He was shaken, but alright. Scared the pee right out of him. He was always a brave boy.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4044/4676570735_4a8222666f.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />I left for college and he stayed with mom for those four years, then as soon as I got my first place in Austin after college, I brought him down to stay with me. He then journeyed with me to Brooklyn, Queens, back to Austin, and then to Dallas. He was huge and awesome. But as he got older, he got smaller and smaller. And sicker. And sweeter, I dare say. A total baby. We did a lot of snuggling this last year or so. I knew my days with him were numbered, and perhaps, so did he.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3321/3176112156_c512115ba0.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />I did have to make the decision to put him to sleep, but it was time. I hated making that call. But when you know, you know. And he knew. Thankfully my mom was already planning to come visit, so she's been here with me.<br /><br />I'm moving too. Wow. I'm moving! All this change is throwing me for a loop. I'm not moving far - just down the street - but it's a much better setup for me. It'll be weird settling into a new place without him. It'll be hard, but I'll manage. I think by the end of the summer, things will be much better all around, but these days, I feel quite heavy, quite sad. But I'll get by. <br /><br />And now, some of his greatest hits..<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4072/4676500339_b7e877584e.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />In 1998, seeing me off to prom.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4676770268_47d8488059.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />In 2004, Brooklyn.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/146/426307216_9ce15881cd.jpg" "width =400"><br /><br />In 2007, Astoria. Yay teeth!!<br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2110/2172773632_a981b94d62.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />In 2008, looking fabulous. Still in Astoria (but not for long).<br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2622/4009407245_f35aaa05db.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />In 2009, Dallas. Miss you boy, xoxo.AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-7291726496025094362010-05-12T18:41:00.004-05:002010-05-12T19:28:22.814-05:00The KreweSo as a perpetual apartment/rental dweller, and a wannabe green thumb, I've come to love my little cadre of potted plants, and my annual trip to the garden store to supplement them. I love gardening, but not so much that I bite off more than I can chew (hence the small gathering here). I'm realistic about what I can handle on my own, and then get the rest of my fix hanging out at the Arboretum.<br /><br />Here is the 2010 Krewe of Potted Plants:<br /><br /><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1006/4602727068_d98b96a559.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />From left to right, starting with the back row..<br /><br />-Oh my gosh, YES, that's my hydrangea! It's a beast! I'm so beyond pleased. Especially considering a few months ago I wasn't sure if it was dead or not. <br /><br />It's now two years old - like many of these pictured, I brought it up from Austin. Someday I have dreams to plant it in the ground, but for now, its home is its pot. I plan to give it a good trim this next winter to keep it from getting too big. It has grown more this spring than it has in all the time I've had it. And the most blooms ever! Oh my gosh, so exciting.<br /><br />-Next door to the hydrangea, my rosemary. Along with the hydrangea, the only plant that stayed out all winter (except for those 2 or 3 days when the temperature range was 13 to 18 degrees). I brought it up from Austin and am just letting it do its thing. It smells good but I don't use the herb often enough I think. I need to work on that.<br /><br />-Another Austin hanger-oner, my old kalanchoe. Like rosemary, I feel like kalanchoes are sorta impossible to kill. I've seen some seriously neglected ones around school that people have gotten as gifts, and myself or Rose, the 80-year-old receptionist, will tend to them for a week or so and they're thriving once again. I need to trim mine down and get it into a new pot. When it blooms, it's orangey-yellow.<br /><br />-Front row left, another one from my Austin patio. I moved into that apartment and found this heart-leaf philodendron (aka 'the ivy') in the world's tiniest pot, root-bound something awful. I'm never one to toss a plant that is still showing signs of life so I put it in a new pot and let it be. And like any ivy, it sprung to life. When it got cold enough this past December, I brought it upstairs and found I had to pull its tendrils out of the earth when I picked it up. They'd traveled to the edge of the patio and started digging down. This one's a fighter.<br /><br />-I didn't get a petunia last year and I sorta regretted it. They're so easy to care for and bright and cheery. A nice little burst of color. I love the stripes on this one!<br /><br />-I picked up the two basil plants on the right from <a href="http://www.redentas.com/">Redenta's</a> recently. I usually only have one basil and it's never enough to make a good-sized batch of pesto at any point during the summer. Also I eat basil on/with/mixed into just about everything during the summer months. So I'm sure I'll put them to good use.<br /><br />So that's the Krewe! And <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mandahattan/2414738189/">here's the Krewe</a> from two years ago in Austin (minus the hydrangea). The rosemary and kalanchoe are there. I miss that balcony. I'm looking for a new place and have high hopes for a better outdoor space setup than I have now. Currently, when I'm in my apartment, I can't even see my plants. Which is sad.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4602726818_32fed7db34.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />CJ loves warm weather. Just waits on it so patiently. And then the windows are open and.. hooray! Soak it up, honey. Soon we'll be in A/C hibernation. (Who am I kidding, we're already there.)AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-40963097253375129572010-04-30T23:37:00.007-05:002010-05-01T00:57:02.443-05:00My sartorial muse has a blog<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/01/us/politics/01maria.html">This story</a> in today's <i>New York Times</i> led me to discover <a href="http://mrs-o.org/">Mrs.O</a>, my new favorite blog. Finally, a place for me to obsess freely over Michelle Obama's wardrobe. I might be behind the curve on this one--apparently the blog has been around for a while. But who cares, I loves it!<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4057/4567393042_565c854b0d.jpg" height="400"" /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><i>AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo</i></span><br /><br />In a Tracy Reese dress in Mexico. Note the red flats. Love.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3008/4566761335_1a14d01ee8.jpg" width="400"" /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><i>AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta</i></span><br /><br />Visiting the Pentagon recently. No idea of the designer on this dress but I WANT TO STEAL IT.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4020/4566761361_f96b72e123.jpg" height="400"" /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><i>AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite</i></span><br /><br />In a L'Wren Scott dress. Holy geeze, I want to steal that one too.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4024/4567393026_d14b3b532c.jpg" height="400"" /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><i>MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images</i></span><br /><br />Going more formal in a Peter Soronen dress. Gasp.<br /><br />This is making me want to go shopping! I got a little bit of the urge out in Target the other day, but I only left with a couple of knit tops. Of note, I now own <i>three</i> <a href="http://www.target.com/Mossimo-Supply-Juniors-V-Neck-Pocket/dp/B00331RPVU/">Mossimo V-neck pocket tees</a>. Lots of colors, good fit, and only 6 bucks--sign me up. These will be integral players in the summer 2010 wardrobe.<br /><br />And one last thing. You still aren't watching <a href="http://www.nbc.com/chuck/"><i>Chuck</i></a>? <i>Dang</i> people, why not? Us poor, desperate fans are now <a href="http://popwatch.ew.com/2010/04/30/chuck-flashmobs-save-show-nbc/">resorting to flash mob</a> tactics.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3228/4567444448_875361d54e_o.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />How can you not love those two? No verdict about next year from NBC just yet, which is straight-up poop. That should have been a no-brainer. But NBC doesn't have a <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2010/01/and_so_it_ends_the_nbc_latenig.html">good track record</a> with those.AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-16664185395624521432010-04-24T21:00:00.005-05:002010-04-24T22:53:25.437-05:00Spring is for nerdsI've been having a bit of a fling. With spring. While fall is my favorite season, I must admit that spring does have its fine qualities. And though this particular spring has been busier than most, I won't hold that against it. <br /><br />Up at school, the girls are all abuzz about graduation...<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4067/4549377905_13f92fb2d9.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />And at home, I've been all abuzz about new furniture. That's right, the Hoosier is here!<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4549377661_081c416d2a.jpg" "height=400"><br /><br />Isn't it lovely?<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4550015294_f458b68167.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Sigh. I'm such a sucker for hardware. I bought it from a woman on <a href="http://dallas.craigslist.org/">Craigslist</a> who owned it for years and years and loved it dearly. I can't wait to give it an equally long run in my home!<br /><br />I've also been all abuzz over <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spooks"><i>MI-5</i></a> (aka <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mf4b"><i>Spooks</i></a> for any Brits reading). Can I take a moment to geek out over that? I've been watching the 6th season on <a href="http://www.kera.org/">KERA</a>. I must admit, I initially started watching just for <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0672303/">Rupert Penry-Jones</a>, but now I'm just straight hooked. Every episode, I'm on the edge of my seat. Here's a clippy-clip from an earlier season. Featuring Mr. Penry-Jones of course.<br /><br /><object width="400" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qhoh_4DpLLU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qhoh_4DpLLU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />I'll probably end up renting them all eventually. Maybe over the summer..<br /><br />So yeah, spring. It has a few things going for it. Flowers and such. Babies and sunshine. Patio drinking. Enjoy it while you can. It'll be 100 degrees before we know it.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4030/4542506960_12b2f0c09a.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />And one more quick plug for another sign of spring. The <a href="http://www.etsydallas.com/">Etsy Dallas</a> <a href="http://handmadebash.com/">Spring Bash</a>! It's next Saturday, May 1. Be there or be square, nerds!<br /><br /><a href="http://handmadebash.com/"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/4550015718_b57cc0dc71_o.jpg" "width=400"></a>AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6367171253505550002.post-49536400512520433042010-04-03T22:58:00.004-05:002010-04-03T23:14:09.291-05:00Flower powerJust spent a whole lot of the last couple of days volunteering at the <a href="http://www.dallasarboretum.org/">Arboretum</a>. I love spending time there. Especially, you know, when you get to smell wisteria all day. And look at these.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2713/4488174011_4ff509b27b.jpg" "width=400"><br /><br />Yay tulips! Happy Easter, y'all. (chocolate here I come)AThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06987640574332884482noreply@blogger.com0