K, tea?

His 27th Birthday

2012-01-21T12:38:00.001Z

xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Holiday in photos

2012-01-02T01:17:00.001Z

Hope you had a lovely Christmas and a Happy New Year!

This and this and that and

2011-12-12T21:30:00.001Z

I’m blogging because I’m totally in a good mood right now. Good things are happening, people. I’ve just practiced some butt kicking yoga, 10 days until we fly to Florida, I chopped all of my hair off again and my sister- (I mean…when can I stop calling you my sister-in-law??) has finally joined the world of bloggers – LUBISAJU. Hooray!

More…

I’ve been shopping like a mad woman the last few weeks and we’re almost finished buying Christmas gifts. I do love a good shop-a-thon but I don’t want to be in another mall again until….sometime next year. It’s hard not posting all of the great presents I’ve found along the way. I’m so bad with surprises but I’m trying hard to keep them on the hush hush.

Our tree is up and it’s looking pretty festive in here. I’m going to work on some spiced oranges this week so we can enjoy them for a few days. This weekend we’ll be at Ryan’s parent’s house for Christmas celebration number 1 out of the 3 we’ll be having this year. We are too lucky.

How has your shopping gone so far? How many people have you sarcastically mumbled “Oh no no nooo! Excuse ME!” to while waddling like a penguin in the crowd of other more frantic penguins trying to get to H&M?

You are not alone. You’ll get there in the end but then you’ll totally give up after you see the line. Just order it online.

I’m totally ranting because I miss the blogging world.

If you’ve made it this far I’ll award you with this video hilarious dog video Ryan sent me:

Gifts from the cool Aunt

2011-11-18T20:42:00.001Z

K, I may not be the cool Aunt l but I’m an Aunt and it’s pretty awesome. So here are some gift ideas for the young ones:

1. Onesie – Eaggagogo on Etsy
2. Temporary Tattoos by Amy Blay
3. Meerkat puzzle at Paperchase
4. Her first fur coat via Zara
5. Batman Lollipops by CustomCandyCreations on Etsy
6. Perfect for little mermaids - G of the sea

Want more? Because I could do this all day long.

Hold on, slow down

2011-11-13T12:10:00.001Z

Been thinking about how this year has gone by too fast. It seems like the older I get the faster the years pass. Then I got a newsletter emailed to me from a local Yoga instructor (reminding myself that I haven’t been back since and also haven’t stepped foot on my mat in ages!! THANKS!)

“What is the right pace for life?

So often we talk about the pace of life as if it is something that we have no control over; as if there are these evil pace setters that continually mix up the speed just to see us sweat.

We complain when the pace seems too fast: ‘The weekend went so quickly, ‘I can’t believe it’s Friday – where did the week go?’, ‘It’s nearly Christmas again, I don’t know what happened to this year.’ It’s like we are stuck on a treadmill which is going too fast so we battle to keep the pace up for fear of falling off the end.

All through my childhood and teenage years my mother would chastise me for ‘never hurrying’ as if somehow taking my time was a bad thing, but I never understood what the rush or urgency was. And now when she asks me how it is that I never seem stressed the truthful reply is ‘because I never hurry’. For me this is the key.

Start slow so and take regular pauses (even just 10 deep breaths) so that you have time to notice the day unfold around you and then choose how to respond to the tasks you’re presented with and adjust your pace accordingly. This way you are your own pace setter living life at the speed that suits you best.

The pauses are so important as we don’t always get things right and it is in the pauses that we can reflect and then take responsibility for adjusting things if we aren’t happy. If you feel like things have started to speed up again then in the pause you can ask yourself ‘Am I rushing because I’m under stress or am I under stress because I’m rushing?’.

If there is any one indication that life is best lived slowly, it’s that among all of the busyness, racing to fulfil tasks and rushing to complete goals, there is one race that nobody wants to finish first: the race of life itself.

Our culture has a mild obsession with racing — not racing for the sake of sport or simple competition, but racing through many aspects of our lives, so as to fulfil a sense of productivity. In conquering sprawling to-do lists we hope that we will feel accomplished. But “productivity” is a false-comfort and before long, we forget that life itself is about experiencing the journey — not racing to the finish.
So start slow. I’m not saying this will be easy. Especially when you’re running late for work, you have children to pack off to school and a million other things on the to do list. But just for one week give it ago.

Build something into your morning, make it the first thing you do when you get up that forces you slow down. Take 2 minutes longer in the shower to do 4 rounds of 10 long deep breaths, have a walk round your garden before the rest of your house has got up, complete 5 sun salutations, read two pages of a book - what ever it is give it ago!

Every morning that I choose to ‘start slow’, something amazing happens. I am calm, relaxed, and balanced throughout the day. Each moment feels like a gift, and not merely an opportunity to accomplish goals or fulfil tasks. When I start slow, I am naturally more productive and feel more accomplished by the day’s end.”

Right? I can do this. I hope you can too.

Snail cake toppers – cute. via felttess on Etsy

Pretty Crappy

2011-10-20T18:53:00.001+01:00

Roses keep me happy when I’m feeling pretty crappy.

K, coffee?

2011-10-17T20:27:00.001+01:00

So grateful for the little cafe that has opened down the street from us.

For the salad freaks

2011-10-14T22:30:00.001+01:00

I made this last Ginger Steak Salad last month (yeah, bit late but better late than never!) and it was one of the best salads, evar. It took a little preparation and patience but it all paid off.

via The Pioneer Woman Cooks via Pinterest

Last week

2011-08-30T23:18:00.001+01:00

The photos above are just a glimpse of last week in Bristol. We tried to take advantage of every day even if it was pouring rain. We took a trip to Longleat and a petting zoo to see our animal friends (then I fell in love with goats), took little Isak bowling for the first time and it was the ca-utest, and even got pampered at the prettiest spa in Bath where I had my first massage & facial…amazing – I am totally hooked and ready to book another.

It was a good week and I’m sad it’s over. Back to work and normal life!

Holidaaay

2011-08-20T13:25:00.001+01:00

Hello happy sunflowers! I’m off to Bristol for a week. Lucy, Julien and Isak are in from France and we can’t wait to see em! We’re driving down in a few hours and I have made such a great compilation for the ride. Ryan will either be tortured or love it forever. “She’s Like the Wind” may be on there…

Hope you’re all alright. I miss this place! I’ll be back soon. xxxx

A shelf to myself

2011-08-09T19:59:00.001+01:00

My new little spot. Ryan put our old shelf up in the bedroom so I have a good space to do make-up and things. We have a little one bedroom flat so we’re always trying to figure out ways to change things and rearrange. It’s opposite our new bed so I just sit on the edge. It might look strange but works for me!

Oh and that’s a little pink donut, obviously.

Mishu

2011-08-04T21:48:00.001+01:00

Hey – has it been forever or what? Been workin hard and not really having a life. It has been almost a month at my new job! It’s going well and it’s nice to have a routine again.

Short post but there are good little things happening here lately like our new bed (woop!) and my new Long Winter Farm perfume oil (thanks to Anabela’s raves about the shop and their lovely scents). Smells like nothing I’ve ever smelled before and I love love love roll on perfume. I chose Cloudberry & Willow because…well because that’s just a great name. I really want to try all the others now and probably will.

K, miss all yall!

Someone has a case of the Fridays

2011-07-15T21:18:00.001+01:00

Yeah great photo of us, right? Dang. This week has just fa-lown by. It was my first week at my new job and I haven’t really been able to read many of my favorite blogs or even be on my computer much. It has kinda been nice but I also feel like days are just flying by but it is nice to appreciate Fridays and weekends again.

Yesterday we went to a really pretty wedding in Somerset and on the way we randomly passed by Stonehenge – how does that happen?! Tomorrow we’ll be feasting on lasagna at our friends dinner party. I can’t wait because I haven’t cooked since last week and I’m ready for a good home cooked meal with friends.

Hope you all had a good week and enjoy the weekend!

Peacock pecks!xx

Someone has a case of the Fridays

2011-07-08T14:16:00.001+01:00

Right, it’s Friday so here is what I’ve been lookin’ at & listening to:

x New movie about love – looks good, can’t see it playing here though but fingers are crossed.
x Top I want to make or buy for my pregnant sister-in-law!
x Fun summer song.
x Colorful iphone case for my future phone. Yes, it’s true – I’m the only one in the world without one.
x I cannot wait to paint my bathroom or any room this color when we get a new place. It’s just…
x Is it too late to dye my hair this color? Think my new job will turn me away? Yea, maybe I’ll keep dreamin.
x Hawaiian version of “Nothing Compares to You”. Kinda sweet but nothing compares to the original.
x Puppy portraits that I completely fell in love with.
x Will you be watching the shuttle launch?? I’ve actually never seen one before!

See ya!

Photo via ASecondLife. Fridge magnets on the Etsy homepage today. Seriously, their daily collections just get better and better.

More Lunch

2011-07-08T13:24:00.001+01:00

My version of a 4pc nugget & fries. Leftover homemade chicken nuggets with herby potatoes, homemade ranch, some ketchup and an apple (not pictured but it happened).

I also took a photo of a quick and not so healthy lunch I made for Ryan yesterday…
I didn’t even get to try it but he said it was like a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup sandwich! nomnomnom

Colorful Lunch

2011-07-07T16:11:00.001+01:00

It was tasty.

Working Girl

2011-07-07T13:10:00.001+01:00

You guys…I got a job. I’m really proud of myself actually. I had a lot of motivational talks from my husband and mother-in-law which helped so much. I really can’t thank them enough. Also – thanks to everyone that helped pick out my interview outfit and to all of the readers that have wished me luck!

I haven’t worked for about two years now and it was really hard for me to get back into it. I didn’t realise how hard change is for me until the night before the interview. It meant a new place and maybe even a house, finally learning how to drive on the other side of the road, routine, growing up for real and finally settling in England. These are all good things and I don’t know why I kept myself from them for so long.

For those of you that are struggling to find a job, I know how sucky it is and how low it can make you feel. Keep trying and stay positive. And for those of you that hate interviews…revise revise revise. They are pretty scary to me so you are not alone.

Ask a friend or someone you feel comfortable with to do mock interviews with you over and over again. Mix the questions up and have your answers in front of you just so you can go back and wont feel stuck. I even brought them in a an organized binder to the interview. I had them right on my lap but just in case. Fortunately I didn’t even glance at them but it was nice to know they were there and the person or people interviewing you will appreciate that you came prepared. My Mother-in-law also told me to breathe deeply to ease anxiety. She gave me a little glass pebble, said it was confidence and to keep it in my pocket. After the interview I realised I had forgotten to bring it with me but after all of the positive thoughts, pep talks and preparation I guess I had it all along.

So I know it’s about damn time but for some people it takes longer than others. Anyone have any good tips on how to prepare for an interview or to get your confidence back after not working for so long?

Someone has a case of the Fridays

2011-07-01T21:43:00.001+01:00

Good bye June…my second favorite month! I’ll miss you. You were good to me. Hello July!

We’re going to Bristol this weekend and I’ll be spending some girl time with my Mother-in-law while Ryan is at a stag-do. I’m planning on practicing lots of Yoga from now until Monday because I’ve got an interview on Monday morning, eek. No, not eek..trying not to freak myself out more because I’m a little nervous for this one. Fingers crossed again and again.

Here are a few things I came across this week. Hope you all have a good weekend and you know I’ll be making burgers on the 4th!

x Made this Easy Jambalaya last night. Must remember to take photos of these delicious dinners before inhaling them.
x Another DIY dye I’d like to try found here.
x Cute yellow nails. Last time I used yellow nail polish it stained my nails. I don’t suggest using super cheap yellow or green polish. I’m sure Sally’s is ok.
x Been watching these Japanese DIY candy making videos. They actually look therapeutic. I’m totally going to ask my brother if he can send some of these my way. Check out the donuts, spaghetti & pizza. Cute, gross and awesome all at the same time.

Ok byyyyyye!

photo I took this time last year of a bowl I transformed when I saw this DIY

Tinted Jars

2011-06-30T18:44:00.001+01:00

I’ve been pretty glued (ha…) to my laptop or tv lately so when I saw this diy on Pinterest I decided I needed a little craft break. It was nice to sign off for a little bit and listen to the soothing sounds of…my husband whistling while he worked.

I didn’t have any Mod Podge around so I just mixed glue & water. Again, I used the many Gu jars we have around because the desserts are so tasty. I’ll probably use these for bobby pins, candles and little stuff.

They turned out pretty cute!

A Very Happy Aunt

2011-06-30T16:49:00.001+01:00

More babies! My sister-in-law Lucy is pregnant with her second baby! Hooray!!! So happy for her and the family. Isak is going to make a great big brother. Congratulations you guys!

P.s. Yes, I am already planning the shower.

photo via fieldguided

Charity shop finds

2011-06-28T18:03:00.001+01:00

When I stepped outside today it smelled like I was in a flower shop! Yeah, It was a little cloudy but all the flowers are out and birds are chirping. It has been pretty hot over here and by hot I mean 70’s which is rare for us here. It’s shorts weather and I never thought I’d say that. I had a good trip to the charity shops today. It has been a while since I’ve been in one so it’s nice to walk out with some good pieces. Hello - that blue skirt! The photos are grainy because it’s a little cloudy here so they had to be brightened, but how lucky am I for getting it for £1?! In fact, I bought all of these guys for £1. It was a good day indeed. I know the red tube top (hate even saying “tube top”) brings out the inner hoochie mama (at least it does to me and yes I have one in black, what?!) but after finding the skirt I thought about all the color blocking that is going on out there, I thought I’d join in. Will I wear it? I hope so!

And Mom, this one is for you since you have the coolest birdcages ever. Ryan says we already have a birdcage and even though he is right…this one is so cool. I didn’t get it but I might go back tomorrow if it isn’t too late.

Around

2011-06-28T11:57:00.001+01:00

Life is like a recycled glass Gu bowl of cherries.Don’t ask me about the random books we have. Most of this section was given to us.Is that really appropriate, Chanel?

Someone has a case of the Fridays

2011-06-25T00:12:00.001+01:00

So full of Chinese food right now which means it has been a good Friday. I made strawberry fruit leather earlier today (such an old lady, right?) and it turned out really well! Try it if you have 8 HOURS to spare.

We finally got rid of our other sofa the earlier this week too. It looked like a theatre in here for awhile because we bought a new sofa from Ikea a few weeks ago. I love it! Time to start the cushion hunt.

There are some new projects happening over here that I’m really excited about! Hopefully I’ll be able to share them more towards the end of the month. For now I’ll share with you some of my favorite things lately –enjoy and have a good weekend!

x Quick way to tone legs – I love these little exercises
x My favorite Etsy store atm.
x Someone tweeted this DIY ombre dying tutorial but I totally forget who (sorry!). Must try soon.
x My bathtub is one of my favorite places, it’s true. So when I saw this I knew I had to have it…or Ryan needs to make me one.
x Totally loving this necklace. I need to decorate my neck more.

photo via Georgia Pellegrini

Dessert Tradition

2011-06-21T17:31:00.001+01:00

My man and me on our one year anniversary date eating crème brulee just like we did that night a year ago. <3

Wonderful Wedding

2011-06-20T17:47:00.001+01:00

We went to our friends wedding on Friday at the Kingscote barn and it was too pretty! Congratulations Duncan & Georgi! So cute that there were tons of little lamb surrounding the barn too. I was running on zero hours of sleep but had a really great time. I may have been a little more mental than usual. Anyway it was so good to see all of our friends and we were lucky to be sat with them at the Mad Hatter’s table which was a perfect name for us. Made me want to marry that handsome man again.

Fathers Day

2011-06-20T13:06:00.001+01:00

Above is the print we bought for Dad from LilyGene on Etsy. We’re all in different countries now but we’ll all be together for Christmas this year! Hope all the Dad’s had a nice Fathers Day!! Love you, Dad!<3

A romantic dinner with myself

2011-06-15T20:59:00.001+01:00

The End.

Second paper gift

2011-06-13T15:47:00.001+01:00

Ryan will always be an emo boy at heart. This was such a clever card – had to get it for him.

We celebrated our ONE YEAR anniversary on Saturday!! I woke up to lots of roses, breakfast and cards. We went out and spent the day together doing fun things then had dinner at our favourite restaurant.

There’s still one more present on its way. Shame it didn’t arrive on Saturday but I’ll show you when or IF it arrives. Hope you had a good weekend!

First little gift

2011-06-10T18:39:00.001+01:00

Tomorrow is our one year anniversary! Just wanted to share a photo of this little swan automata I gave to Ryan a few days early (I’m so bad at surprises but there is something else on its way that he doesn’t know about). First year anniversary gifts are traditionally supposed to be paper so the paper swans are perfect. Ryan keeps it by his desk and sometimes I’ll look over and see him turning the crank to see the waves rolling. There is a little video here by the maker.

Happy Friday!

Daydreaming about: Mermaids

2011-06-09T17:38:00.001+01:00

Conch Shell Barrette Clips from dreamsbythesea on Etsy

I grew up watching The Little Mermaid…religiously. I had Little Mermaid parties, dolls, books, clothing (see the goofy photo of me in my “About Me” section), everything. A few days on the way to Ikea, we took a trip to Lush to get a mask my Sister-in-law raves about, Mask of Magnaminty, but instead walked out with the Aqua Marina cleanser. The label says it is “inspired by Mermaids” and has flecks of seaweed in it. You’ll taste salt if you happen to open your mouth or lick your lips after washing your face. Let me know if you’ve tried it. My face was getting pretty oily and this has def sucked the oil right up.

Got Gingham?

2011-06-06T14:43:00.001+01:00

Elvira Bach’s kitchen via Freunde von Freunden

…you should see her living room.

A Good Day

2011-06-05T15:06:00.001+01:00

Saturday was a good day. Aside from the strange dark clouds it has been really really warm. I painted my nails an old color I had called Kauai then saw that this color came out! Sort of similar.

Later, we went to Ikea to check out a certain something and I was so excited when we actually bought and walked out with that certain something!! I’ll put a photo up soon.

I cooked chorizo and scallops in the evening (which was delicious, if I do say so myself) with veggies and brown rice. We switched to brown rice a few weeks ago and I feel like every mouthful is a bit of magical healthiness and it probably isn’t but it is better. Right? Then we watched Hall Pass which was pretty funny but mostly just watched it for Stephen Merchant because he’s hilarious.

Hope your weekend is going ok!xx

Bag Romance

2011-06-02T01:18:00.001+01:00

Beautiful bags made from vintage fabric from Thailand and India.

I mean…wow.

via Dazzling Lanna on Etsy.

Hey June

2011-06-01T14:17:00.001+01:00

Embrace a messy BED.

Happy June 1st! My second favorite month! I’ll miss you, May! I will prove it by making a list because I love lists.

Things I’ll miss about May:
x My long hair
x Our visit to France
x Saying “omg can you believe it’s already May?”

Our landlord got back to us and it was a no on keeping a dog here. So we’re pretty bummed out and of course I want to move asap but it doesn’t just happen like that. We really want one but it’s just not the time for us OR WHATEVERRRRR. I’m grumpy, can you tell? Thank goodness it’s a pretty day out. I want to put my new bistro table to use outside.

Lunch

2011-05-31T16:55:00.001+01:00

What I Ate: Leftover Asparagus and Goat’s Cheese Tart that I made last night ooo weee!

Grow my little babies, grow!

2011-05-31T15:10:00.001+01:00

We just recently upgraded/replanted our plants and they are totally thanking us and growing like crazy. The basil needed a little watering so I gave him aqua, a photo shoot and some lovin. These plants are like our little pets right now. Or maybe I’m just a weirdo?? Could be both. Anyway I don’t know much about plants but I used to just accidently kill them all and now they’re so green and pretty. Anyone have advice about keeping basil?? Not sure if it’s supposed to be growin all wack and wild or what.

So speaking of pets, we’ve been stalking the local dog adoption sites lately and emailing around. It’s time for us and we cannot wait to give one of those guys a home forever. We’re actually still waiting for the landlord to give us permission. If that comes back as a no then I’ll just cry a little and wait some more. Fingers are crossed.

I won

2011-05-31T13:15:00.001+01:00

Oh I was just sayin how I kicked Ryan’s butt at bowling on Saturday. heee :D

Music to get you through Monday

2011-05-30T19:07:00.001+01:00

I dunno what she’s singing about but I like it.

Also I know you’re thinking about this video so I’ve posted it for you.

Breakfast

2011-05-27T14:44:00.001+01:00

Looks healthy but then I remembered we have nutella and well…you know what happened next. I didn’t take a photo because it’s messy and delicious and I’d feel like a tumblr girl and I’m a blogger girl all the way.

More Fancy Soap

2011-05-25T19:31:00.001+01:00

I can’t help myself.

via KcSoapsNmore

Fancy Soap

2011-05-23T14:30:00.001+01:00

I do love the natural soaps out there that are simply chopped from a brick but sometimes a little fancy soap catches my eye. C’mon, the muscle men are pretty awesome.

via HelloCrafty

Ikea deal

2011-05-20T13:16:00.001+01:00

Ikea thinks our dream room includes overflowing baskets of cabbage. I’m always trying to find ways to store my cabbage and shovel, so thanks, Ikea. Also, thanks for not being a jerk last night. We had such a smooth visit. The best way to shop at Ikea (for us) is to go two hours before closing and straight to the kitchen for coffee, cakes and couches. Guilty.

I am a bargain shopper so I thought I’d share this super deal on a navy floral duvet they’re having here. It’s cute and cheap. We can be duvet twins.

Photo via Ikea

Coconutalicious

2011-05-19T00:40:00.001+01:00

Peach cookies with cream cheese frosting topped with coconut?!?!?!?!?!?!?!? DREAM COOKIES.

Dogs are just not interested.

via Fancy Treehouse via A Beautiful Mess

Mumu belt

2011-05-16T16:44:00.001+01:00

I bought two belts while we were at the jumble sale in Avignon. This pink leather belt is so 80’s and girly. It went perfect with what I was wearing at the time (what I like to call my mini mumu from h&m) so I had to have it. I belted it, switched the buckle to the back and started singing “Xaaanaduuuuu!”

Trying to use what little light we have here. I miss you, sun!

And YES I might just wear this nail polish all Spring and Summer long. I love it.

Speaking of: Pick me up’s

2011-05-16T15:11:00.001+01:00

Some of mine:Good music, junk food (win/lose), watching movies with good popcorn, a new top, good herbal tea, trips to Starbucks (RARE!), taking a good photo with my little camera, animals, taking off my seriously chipped polish and painting a fresh coat, reading my favorite blogs, tiny plants, nice baths and lighting a candle before getting on my yoga mat.

New Old Wallet

2011-05-15T11:38:00.001+01:00

It has been 5 days since we’ve been back and we’ve sat down to eat cheese every day. You could say we miss France. I now have the new Strokes album because they’d play it non stop while we were out there so it will forever remind me of that trip. We’re also looking for a set of bistro table and chairs. We need to spend more time outside and even though we have a communal garden I’m going to take advantage of the fact that we HAVE a garden. I came home with a pretty bad cold though so I won’t be out much in the next few days.

I bought the wallet above at a jumble sale in Avignon. It had never been used and the crazy pattern made me dive straight for it. I haven’t had a new wallet in about 4 years so that baby was mine. It’s pretty huge compared to my old one but I’m afraid of getting the white bits all dirty. Also, not sure why my old wallet has a tiny Fat Albert sticker on it.

Last night after Ryan came home from the Three Peaks Challenge meeting, he brought me a fresh new magazine, nice tissues, cough drops and surprise popsicle molds. He’s awesome but the popsicle molds don’t fit in our tiny freezer. They now taunt us.

Hope your weekend was alright and nothing bad happened to you on Friday the 13th. I obviously don’t really believe in that day being bad because I totally went and got all of my hair chopped off. Yes, the mega chop. It’s so short and….SHORT.

See ya!

France: Third time’s a charm

2011-05-13T17:44:00.001+01:00

This is our third time visiting France. The first time we went to Avignon and saw all the sites. The second time, Ryan (hairy armpit man above) took me to Paris for my birthday and proposed! The third time has been really low key and all about hanging out and spending time with family, we really loved it. I have a whole new respect for parents taking care of babies! Lucy (my sister-in-law) is the Mum of 16 month old Isak who is the SUPER COOL (like Daddy). I could not find his off button anywhere but it’s so fascinating to see him learning right in front of your eyes. We woke up to a lovely coffee and a nice breakfast outside every morning and ended the night with bbq’s and ridiculously yummy sauces (need recipes ASAP). Lucy and her husband Julien are in the early stages of building a house onto their Grandparents house so every time we went to visit we were force fed chocolates, cookies and cakes – darn, right?

I seriously miss it already. It’s so nice to fly away somewhere and bask in the sun, have a little red headed baby running around everywhere and giving you kisses before they go to sleep, have talks outside at night while the peacocks are about (seriously, so strange), hear stories about Ryan and Lucy when they were kids, eat new foods, and just get away.

Writing the list for groceries and you can bet that there is going to be lots of cheese.

France, so far…

2011-05-07T23:11:00.001+01:00

We have had such an awesome time here in France. Just wanted to share a few photos with you guys.

It’s going to be really tough leaving!

Case of the (Royal Wedding) Fridays

2011-04-29T19:11:00.001+01:00

Ohhhhhhhh what can I say that hasn’t already been said? The wedding was truly magical. I’m so happy for them both. I feel so lucky to have been able to see it all happen live. I had one billion hearts shooting out of my eyeballs, for real. K, there were a few tears too.

I tweeted photos off the tv and bits of commentary to my sister-in-law whom had to be at WORK the whole time. I know there are probably tonnnnnnns of pretty pictures of the wedding and dress out there but here are my shots (this is my blog after all):And I hope they will live happily ever after…

We switched off the tv and went into town to see all the flags and street parties. It had died down a bit so we went to lunch and said a little cheers for them both. I had my first margarita of the year and although they used table salt (bleh) it was delish. Couldn’t have asked for a better day and it was nice to see everyone in such a great mood.

Now I’m off to pack as we’re leaving tomorrow for Bristol then off to France on Monday! I’ve got an appointment with the hairdressers early tomorrow (eek). Not sure what I’m going to get but whatever it is will be good because it’ll be GOOD BYE SPLIT END CITY.

Have a wonderful wonderful weekend. I’ll be posting lots of pictures (not off the tv) of our trip soon. xxxx

What I’ve been cooking up lately…

2011-04-28T16:53:00.001+01:00

I usually try at least one new dish a week. Here is what I’ve been cooking up lately and I really suggest them! I try to choose things that are quick, easy and ask for ingredients I probably already have in my kitchen.x Best Ever Potato Salad: That’s what they called but not sure if it’s the BEST. I’ve had some great potato salads in my day but it’s my first time making potato salad and it was pretty delicious.

x Mexican Mac and Cheese Cups: I didn't put them in cups. I used a casserole dish instead. It lasted a few days – which I love. We are big leftover food junkies. I love just popping a dish in the microwave or oven and well…being lazy. I have made homemade mac & cheese a few times before and this one just kicks it up a notch.

x Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip: Again, easy. First time making it and loved it. I made WAY too much because I went by the recipe and always forget it’s just the two of us.

Can you tell I love using our casserole dishes? I make everything in them. It feels so housewifey.

Dish…stuff…chop…cheese…cook…eat.

Btw I found all of these recipes on Pinterest. Sometimes if I’m totally lost on what to make for dinner I’ll browse the food section on Pinterest. Give it a go and tell me what you come up with because I always need something new to eat.

P.s. Not good if you’re trying to look fly this summer.
P.p.s. Omg fly girls

The Other Gypsy Wedding

2011-04-28T15:09:00.001+01:00

Just for the hell of it and because these pictures are just nice to look at.

There will be no 9 year olds dancing to Shakira Shakiiiraaaa at this wedding!!

Mandolin via Celentano Woodworks, Gypsy Dress WeddingCenterpiece, Olive Ann Alcorn photo (oh she is so mysterious…) via Fieldguided via Gatochy, Bohemian spread via HonestlyWTF via 100LayerCake,

Wear it or Not?

2011-04-28T12:34:00.001+01:00

Ehh…not super impressed. Where are all the good skorts hiding?! Ohhh they’re back in the 90’s? Ok. Well the other day when we went to Winchester I wore one of my Zara skirts with the cute pockets and decided to wear a pair of Ryan’s boxers underneath. WHAT?! Well, I don’t have tiny little shorts of my very own! It was a good thing I did though because our friend also decided to wear a skirt and had a little Marilyn in The Seven Year Itch moment while we were eating our ice cream cones. Wee!

How do some girls get away with wearing such short dresses and skirts? Don’t get it.

Would you sport the skort?

Spot Frill Hem Skort at ASOS, Floral Print Skorts at Miss Selfridge, Free People Staying Cool Skort at ShopBop (love the pockets) .

A little of this

2011-04-27T13:44:00.001+01:00

My nails are lookin’ so cute with this new nail polish I bought. I couldn’t stop posing with them. Monster hand! The little flower painting is a first attempt at painting in a long long time. They are wonky but it’s nice to have flowers around. I took a class once in high school but I’d really like to explore painting more. Those shorts are from Primark and they were only £4! That’s all.

Monkeys, Tigers and Deer! Oh my!

2011-04-26T14:41:00.001+01:00

The music has nothing to do with animals. It’s just a song I’ve been loving the last few days. Enjoy the bad video quality. <3

Song by Warpaint – Baby

26

2011-04-26T11:21:00.001+01:00

Yesterday was my 26th birthday. I’m officially a year older. I actually feel pretty good about it. 26 isn’t too bad. I thought it would be hard but I feel great. Phew!

Ryan gave me my yearly dose of animals, taking me to one of my favorite places – Longleat! We did see more exotic animals but c’mon that photo of the turkey and chipmunk with the sock homes were well worth it. Towards the end of the trip, we ended up spending a lot of time waiting in the car because those crazy ass monkeys ripped pieces off of Ryan’s car and threw them! So we had to wait to collect them at the end of the day. I took a hair photo to show off my “bored so I’m going to make a braid” hairstyle and mega grey hairs – see I wasn’t lying.

I’ll post the video of two tigers walking IN FRONT OF RYAN’S CAR tomorrow as they take forever to upload. It was crazy awesome. They also mated right in front of us but I didn’t get that on camera because I was like :O and cracking up at the same time (26, really?). Plus I’d feel creepy. They usually just lounge around so it was cool to see the ladies all flirty with the male, rolling around and all that. Funny.

We ate dinner at Zen. Good sushi, spicy dishes and fried ice cream. Devoured. I passed out super early but had a really great day thanks to Ryan and all of the birthday messages I received. I feel loved!

A Birthday on Easter

2011-04-24T12:41:00.001+01:00

Happy birthday to my best sister-in-law, Lucy. We are so so so excited to visit Lucy and family in France in just 8 days! She has now become my twitter buddy as we are both glued to computers daily.

Yay happy birthday, girl! See you soon and we’ll BBQ it up.

((Happy Easter too!)) Just finished a fun little scavenger hunt Ryan set up while I was sleeping last night. I felt like I was 10 again. He’s funny. CHOCOLATE!

Photo by our wedding photographer Johnny Jet, Easter candy photo by moi

Case of the Fridays

2011-04-22T20:34:00.001+01:00

It was a beautiful day today. Ryan and I went into town to meet some friends, have a smoothie and a coffee and Nando’s. Tomorrow we’re going to Winchester to do lunch. I love being in Winchester, plus it’s supposed to be even prettier out.

I just got my camera back so I’ll be back to posting my OWN photos again. They’re from a good ol point and shoot but hey, it does the job. Here is the one I took just because I was happy to have it back: pretty Wisteria creepin over our wall and our neighbours sexy sexy blanket not.

I’m watching Raiders of the Lost Ark as I write this. Don’t you kinda love her polka dot dress? Poor thing has to wear it the entire time they’re fighting off the Nazi’s and snakes!Have a good long weekend! Eat lots of peeps for me because they don’t do them out here. There are chocolate eggs galore. I used to get white chocolate lady bunnies, mmm.

Oh shout out – Dad is taking off with his woman on a cruise today. Luckyyy. Have fun you guys! <3

Bye!xx

To loft or or not to loft?

2011-04-21T19:44:00.001+01:00

There has been talk about us getting a new bed lately. Our bed has been broken for months and sometimes falls in the middle of the night scaring the hell out of us. It’s not pretty. Our backs are sucky right now and it’s just time.

So I’m lookin I’m lookin…and I see some decent priced beds out there. I don’t want anything fancy (mostly because omg they are expensive) but just something that maybe doesn’t seem possessed.

During my hunt I came across a loft bed. Earlier, Ryan had joked around about getting a bunk bed which would so not be fair because he would always get the top bunk. But ok would it be a horrible idea if we got a loft bed so that I could use the space below to have my OWN space? Ryan has a little corner in our kitchen/diner (which is tiny) for his work. He has a desk and all that. I understand that he needs this. I love his man work station but I am stuck on the couch, bed or wee kitchen table and I’d love my own little corner with my own little chair (que Cinderella song).

Should the bedroom be strictly for…bedroom time? Does climbing a ladder to get in bed sound as bad as I think it does? It’s only £50 and I could have netting around the posts to make it more…pretty/less ugly. We wouldn’t keep it forever. Just until we’re in this place.

Err…climbing over Ryan every morning when he is a grumpy sleeping monster doesn’t sound very nice.

I dunno, it’s a thought. Save loft beds for the little ones and students? Your thoughts?

Photos via holiday rentals, apartment therapy, apartment therapy again

A Royal Birthday

2011-04-21T12:38:00.001+01:00

Happy Birthday, fellow Taurus. Thanks for getting back to us so promptly about not being able to come to our wedding last year. I understand, you can’t make em all! It doesn’t influence the fact that we’re not coming to William and Kate’s big day, we’re just busy.

Hope you have a lovely day today and get to enjoy this gorgeous weather!

Photo of Queen back in the 70’s with the Royal Yacht Britannia via Telegraph via SWNS.com

Daydreaming about a fiesta

2011-04-19T17:32:00.001+01:00

x Cactus shot glasses via manstuff
x This Meteorite Pinata by Confetti System in my own custom color (although I do love the cantaloupe color they make them in)
x These Mexican blanket clothes pins via badbatdesigns for well…pinning!
x Pineapple tea light holders from Habitat – why not?
x A few special salts for margaritas from dellcovespices
x Margaritaville Frozen Concoction Maker 2000 (that name is pretty serious) that is an insane $350 at Sur La Table
x Chili Pepper lights on ebay
x Beautiful Fruiti Orange Jug also from Habitat.

My Sister-in-law mentioned having a late bday bbq for the both of us while we’re in France and I swung into party mode. I’d love to gather everyone this Summer and have a fiesta. I’ve always wanted to have one and the list could go on and on. But they seem so fun and colorful. I love Mexican food, drinks, sounds and smells. I’m still on the hunt for good margarita glasses. I do love the classic cheesy cactus glasses for parties but I want a set of really nice thick glasses.

What would your daydream party be or do you just want to come to mine?

National Garlic Day

2011-04-19T12:17:00.001+01:00

x Smitten Kitchen’s 44 Clove Garlic Soup Recipe
x Homemade Garlic Croutons via What’s Gabby Cooking
x Garlic Herb Bread Sticks via Seven Spoons

I could go on for days. Eat that garlic!

Fresh garlic via Leeks‘N’Bounds, Black garlic via gingerfringe, Roasted garlic via Smallest Forest

Case of the Fridays

2011-04-15T14:50:00.001+01:00

Don’t worry, the week is over. This weekend we’re finally going to Pickwell farm to get some rhubarb and whatever else they’ve got for us to pick. It’s one of my favorite things to do here this time of year. Hope you all have a good weekend. Thanks for reading this week!

Good links, pass it on:

x Two weeks until the Royal wedding! I am such a sucker for this whole thing. Shameless!! The memorabilia is seriously out of control. Here are my recent favorites: this tea towel and mug at Oliver Bonas and this tape found at design is mine via Belle & boo.
x Came across a potential Halloween costume (thinking way ahead) on a search. Then I thought about what they actually did to the bulls (I’m a Taurus…) and said a big “hail no” but damn, it would be rad to put together.
x Potential DIY lamp project that Ryan sent me.
x Wish I had my sister Mariah here to braid my hair like this!
x I can’t tell you how happy I am that one of my favorite gossip sites is back up and running. She feeds my reality tv addiction. If you’re in the UK and can’t watch the wonderful/horrible US shows, you can most likely watch them on Meghan With Fangs.
x DIY collar tips that I’m freaking out about.

BYE!xx

Joan Crawford gif found at fuckyeahjoancrawford on tumblr (I think it’s from Mildred Pierce…Mom?)

Organized Makeup

2011-04-13T15:52:00.001+01:00

I need one of these in my life.

via Less&More on Etsy via A Merry Mishap

Tuesdays Choons

2011-04-12T16:25:00.001+01:00

These songs get me every time…

Sometimes it’s good to have a good cry. Let it out but pick yourself back up and put yourself together again, Humpty. xx

Obsessed with hair

2011-04-12T15:04:00.001+01:00

What to do what to do!!?? It has gone on for too long but I fear I will regret it once it’s gone. I have had super short hair and I love the ease of having no hair to deal with. I usually just throw it up in a bun every day anyway so why is it so hard for us girls to chop our long locks?! When it’s long I have short hair envy and when it’s short I dream of having long lovely hair. Go on have your say…

Bikini Hunter

2011-04-12T12:30:00.001+01:00

I’m looking for a cute & cheap bikini to take with me to France in a few weeks. As I’ve said before, I haven’t put one on in a couple of years and I haven’t shopped for one in aaaages and I’m really not excited to either. So I want to get in and out of there without feeling like a pasty but sunburnt lump.

I’m going to say I’m pear shaped because well…my hips don’t lie. So that doesn’t really mean much except that I don’t want anything super duper frilly or whatever on the bottom. Here is what I’ve got so far:

1. £15.98
2. £17.98
3. £20.98
4. £17.98

All bikini’s are from H&M. They all come in different colors or prints. Of course I went with mostly black just because that’s what I’m used to but some of the colors are vibrant blues, minty greens, plum and peach. Who knows, maybe I’ll get some balls and go for something bright…then again I wouldn’t be able to fit into the bottoms if I did ha…haa ew.

Yeah totally one stop shoppin on this one. Does anyone have any experience with their swimsuits? Hope they’re alright for these prices. I might have to replace the beads. We’ll see! I’ll let you know how it goes and which bikini gets to go to France.

Bits of me

2011-04-11T22:30:00.001+01:00

I’ve been tagged by Rina from Like Me to post seven things you don’t know about me. So, here are some interesting or useless facts…

x My full name is Katheryn Aileen.
x I’m one of seven kids. The line up goes Brian, Katie, Eric, Emma, Mariah, Morgan and Robyn.
x At the moment I probably use my cell phone maybe once a month. Do people still call them cell phones or does everyone just say iphone because everyone has one? I sound old.
x I like my eggs over easy but really prefer a frittata with onions, peppers, spinach, chorizo and salsa to dip.
x My “something you like about yourself” is my eyelashes. It’s good to like things about yourself, right? At least one thing!! People have said they look fake and I’ve had someone tug on my eyelashs to make sure. They may have been tipsy and I probably have normal lashes but I wont spoil it for myself.
x I have more pajamas than actual clothes.
x My alter-ego’s name is Bonquisha Aquafina.

Alright ladies, you’re up! Any random fact you’d like to share about yourself so I can get to know you better?

((photos: rejected random shots of myself with my little red Kodak))

We’re 10!

2011-04-11T14:01:00.001+01:00

Ten months ago I married that handsome man and I’m still clinging to him.
Happy ten months, Darling!

(photos taken by my sister-in-law, Lucy)

Case of the Fridays

2011-04-08T12:14:00.001+01:00

Been spending the days outside this week. I'm actually outside as I type this post up WHOOAAA. The sun has been shining and the breeze is just right. Hope your week has been a good one. Nothing too exciting has happened here. I started a new Yoga class yesterday that I really enjoyed. There wont be another class until the end of this month so I'll have to be good at home.

I did another fun/annoying Facebook quiz on my wall. Posting screen shots of movies we’ve all seen 100 times. Here are some of my favorites – can you guess them? (blog friends that are Facebook friends aren’t allowed to give it away!)

First one to get them gets a hi5.

Have a good weekend!xx

Live Ladies

2011-04-07T12:09:00.001+01:00

Case of the Fridays

2011-04-01T21:02:00.001+01:00

It’s April! My favorite month. The flowers are blooming and there are new adventures in our future. March was meh. This month I’m going to get a job dammit!! I’ve handed my resume out today to a fulltime position so I’m just waiting for the call (thinking positive thoughts). I’m also going to attempt to get my “bikini bod” (PAH!) ready for Summer. I haven’t gone shopping for a swimsuit in about 6 years, for real. I think I got rid of them after I moved away from Florida too.

How was your March? Glad it’s over or sad to see it go?

The photo above is from amandajames1 on Etsy. Ever since my last visit to East I’ve become a little obsessed with hand block printing. East sells some pieces that have been made from hand printed fabric and I love them. I also saw a little something on Kristy’s Handmade Home about hand block printing and I’d really like to take this workshop next year at Tobias and the Angel. Who’s in?x

Tella

2011-03-31T12:38:00.001+01:00

Good bye little fuzzy lady.<3

Cat Time

2011-03-29T13:49:00.001+01:00

I know, right?

via here

Let the daydreaming begin!

2011-03-28T16:50:00.001+01:00

Guess who just booked two tickets to France for the first week of May? WE DID! It’s such a surprise to me too. They kind of just popped up yesterday (the second deal of the day) and we had to make the tough decision (ha!) in one night. Cannot wait to see family and have a nice trip away.

Deal of the Day

2011-03-28T16:20:00.001+01:00

Bought this bag today at EAST for £1 after using a voucher from The Telegraph.

Case of the Fridays

2011-03-25T15:01:00.001Z

Hi guys – thanks for all of your comments on the last Friday post. You’re all super rad.

Today we got some sad news after a trip to the vet. Nutella (our wee hamster) will be two years old on April 4th and her old age is showing. She is such a sweet little thing and has been the perfect first pet for us. We’re going going to spoil the heck out of her and make her last days the best days that we can. <3

On a lighter note, it has been sooo gorgeous here lately. This weather makes it worth suffering through all those wet and cold days. There is a pretty pink magnolia tree a few houses down that I’ve been keeping an eye on. Any day now all of the flowers are going to bloom and it will be magical. Ryan’s parents have one in their backyard and it looks so pretty when the wind blows and the petals fall. *jealous* We went to visit them last weekend and his Mum and I spent most of Sunday at the car boot sale. I came back with a new cactus plant, lots of tomatoes, plums and other goodies. I used the plums to bake a yummy crumble. I can’t wait until Pickwell Farm has its rhubarb so I can bake another one. It’s nice that we can go and pick our own fruit and veg in this sun.

Alright hope you all have a sunny weekend. I’m going to play out “Friday” because it’s so bad it’s good and I promised Ryan I’d only play it on Friday from now on. I can’t help myself.

((British Summertime begins this weekend so set your clocks forward one hour!))

The Brave Little Toaster via Etsy

2011-03-24T13:53:00.001Z

Toaster via thisvintagething
Lampy via bitofbutter
Blanky…ad via echoparkmart
Radio via LucyandEllen
Kirby via msmoxievintage

It’s just not the same, is it? *sigh*

Case of the Fridays

2011-03-18T17:44:00.001Z

Hey everyone! Hope you’re having a good Friday. No links today because if I started I’d go on and on and on and on and…anyway I’ve been constantly linking, pinning and tumbling for days and this is my blog where I used to write about stuff!!!

Wednesday we had a little meeting at our friends house to talk about an adventure Ryan and some friends are going to go on called The Three Peaks Challenge. It’s all for charity and a good excuse to get into shape and feel healthier. I’m going to help with the blog and fundraising. I’m so not climbing or walking or breaking a nail…jk but not really. I’m really excited for him and I’ll post more about it later!

Today my brother left Japan. He is on his way to LA then will end up in Florida with my Dad on Sunday. It’s really nice to know he’ll be away from all the radiation craziness that is going on. He was still feeling aftershocks up until he left. I wrote out a whole sad post about what a stressful time it has been since the earthquake but I’ll spare my blog readers. We are just thankful he is safe and sound and I hope things get better really soon. I know my family is excited he’ll be back in the states but I know how hard he has worked to be able to to stay in Japan. He loves Japan but it’s just not safe right now. I’m sad he has to go but also feel very fortunate that he can. It’s hard being so far away from everyone but we’re planning for a trip to the states at the end of the year.

Tonight we’re going to this tiny fun fair to be 10 again. We went last night but we were too late, they were closing up. I spotted bumper cars, cotton candy (candy floss to the Brits), a spooky walk through maze thing and the usual rickety fair rides. We’re in! It was probably a good thing we showed up late and left because we had just inhaled two pizzas and a calzone. Yum/eeeew.

This weekend we’re going to Bristol to spend time with the in-laws. Weird calling them in-laws but they are lovely!

Have a great weekend and hope you are recovering well from St. Patrick’s Day.

Bag Romance

2011-03-16T13:11:00.001Z

The white is £30 and the “Aztec” bag is £28 at Miss Selfridge. Cheapie cheap.

Dreaming in Deco

2011-03-16T10:49:00.001Z

Yes. We’ll move in tomorrow, thanks.

My deco dreams have come true. I came across this place via rattenkonig via egadegadegad on tumblr and had to look into it more. This was the Hoover factory in 1933.

K, maybe we don’t need the whole building but our dream place is definitely going to have a little deco inspiration. I love the windows, flooring, staircase and the front doors.

I think we should probably take a little trip to London soon.

P.S. This just in – Brother is getting the hell out of Japan for a little while “until this cools off…literally”. Hope it does soon. Stay safe everyone!xx

Photos via nick.garrod on flickr.

Electronic Disco Romance

2011-03-09T14:21:00.001Z

Apologies if you can’t view any of these videos in your area! That sucks!

Valley Vintage

2011-03-09T11:34:00.001Z

These are some of the new photos my Mom sent me of her shop Valley Vintage. I love my Mom’s shop. I wish I could wander around in it every day. Could you imagine what our place would like if we lived in WA? A dreamland of vintage treasures. *sigh*

Valley Vintage on Etsy
Valley Vintage Blog

Cat time

2011-03-08T12:15:00.001Z

Absolutely Cuckoo Cats from SINLOGO on Vimeo.

My Style via My Tumblr

2011-03-07T11:42:00.001Z

Personal style - at nearly 26 years old, I still find it hard to shop as I’m constantly being pulled in every direction. So I took a look at my Tumblr archive where I stash lots of inspiration that includes clothing. It’s mostly things I’d LOVE to be wearing. Of course as a Taurus (I can blame it on that, right?) a lot of the items I’m drawn to are quite expensive but I am a bargain shopper at heart/broke so try I find items inspired by those pieces.

Looking at the collage of photos, it shows I go from crazy shapes to floral then studs to lace. Am I totally all over the place or what? Well, I may not know what I want all the time but at least I know what I don’t want.

So, how would I describe my style? Mine. When I close my eyes I’m wearing that picnic blanket piece, black wedges, and Joan’s giant floppy hat. Then I open my eyes and I’m in the same Forever21 dark denim jeans I’ve had for 3 years, my husband’s black fedora hat, and another charity shop blouse. How is that describable? Maybe I should call Gok. He can make me some wack shoulder pads for every top I own.

What words would you use to describe your style?

((Let’s be tumblr friends! Add me @ –blackbrawhiteshirt-))

No Smoking Day

2011-03-07T06:59:00.001Z

Stock up on your bubble tape because this Wednesday is No Smoking Day.

Good luck – you can do it.

((photo via thosewerethe90s))

Man in the moon?

2011-03-04T12:38:00.001Z

I was just talking about bay windows and last night I dreamt we had a bay window seat in some magical house that my brain thought up. Of course we’d also have to have another in the bedroom with cushions so I could fall asleep on it.

((Curved Bay Window Bench via jeremiahcollection on Etsy via Jennifer Smith on Pinterest))

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2011-03-04T09:17:00.001Z

It’s Mom’s birthday! Wish I could be in Washington today. We would go have lobster bisque and crème brulee!

<3 you!

((Dancing Lady – Robert Z. Leonard via f*ckyeahjoancrawford via un-gif-dans-ta-guele))

A royal cuppa

2011-03-02T06:29:00.001Z

OH C’MON PEOPLE. AND they’re calling it Will & KaTea. How…clever…

Pancake Day

2011-03-01T02:36:00.001Z

My husband actually reminds me months ahead of time just in case I forget…how could I? This day is truly a special holiday for him.

I’m hearing tomorrow is Pancake day in the US and I’m already seeing awesome Pancake posts. For us in the UK I’m reading it’s on the 8th. Whichever day you decide is your Pancake day….I’ve gathered plenty of recipes to choose from for pancake lovers of all kinds. Take your pick!

x Cherry Pancakes with Hot Chocolate sauce
x Gluten Free Silver Dollar Pancakes
x Jamie Oliver’s USA-style Pancakes or Nigella’s take on American Pancakes
x Smitten Kitchen’s Oatmeal Pancakes
x Sour Cream Pancakes
x Lemon Soufflé Pancakes
x Piggy Pancakes
x Nutella Pancakes

I prefer American style pancakes (although I’m more of a waffle or French toast kinda lady) but Ryan loves the crepe-like pancakes with lemon and sugar. They all look and sound good though and it’s fun to play around with pancake recipes. Think out of the box! Let me know which recipe you went for!

I am a Deerhoof fan.

2011-02-26T05:38:00.001Z

Back and Geeking Out

2011-02-25T04:39:00.000Z

I’ve been rediscovering Willow all over again after I saw a the old board game in a charity shop for £1.50 a few weeks ago. Chea, mine. Ryan and I watched the movie again and decided to break out the game and attempt the most complicated board game ever made. We set it all up, looked at the over 20 page rulebook and decided to flip through the playing cards and geek out instead (k, I did most of the geeking out).

I keep seeing armour-like rings and pieces floating around on Tumblr and Pinterest so I Googled Sorsha to write a post inspired by her (maybe later?) and found that these headpieces still exist. OMG. Of course they were at a George Lucas Exhibit where they totally belong. I’m not a Star Wars fanatic or anything like that, although I do <3 Ewok’s. My brother used to watch Willow all the time and while I was always begging to put on Cinderella and The Little Mermaid, I sat through hours of Willow and Robin Hood pretty much ALL THE TIME. C’mon Brian, don’t lie.

And oo recently a good friend of ours has just named her adorable new little puppy Willow and everyone is still singing I WHIP MAH HAIR BACK AND FORTH! Well…I am.

Anyway I’d kill to get my mitts on one of these headpieces though…hmm I see a potential Halloween costume that no one would understand in my future.

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After some crap things were thrown my way I was determined to get some good things happening for myself and so far it’s working. Now I’ve just got to make more good things blossom from them (job job job *all fingers are crossed*). I’ve also been consistently practicing Yoga again with a little Pilates thrown in there. Maybe I’ll feel ok about possibly wearing a swimsuit this year but mostly it’s just good to feel good – ya know? I’m a pretty sensitive lady so yes, you will see it in my posts if I’m blue. But I’m taking my multivitamins like a good girl and cooking the yummiest of yummy dinners. Hello happy belly. Downside is I’ve recently become a little nocturnal. I’m slowly turning that around but I’ve always been kind of a night owl anyway.

I’m also falling in love with blogging again because it’s MINE and sometimes it’s one of the best ways to express my thoughts, inspirations, obsessions and feelings. Yes, even if it is a photo of a cute lil rodent. Your comments are like sweet little daily notes that just put a smile on my face. Thank you for taking the time to write them. As usual, you are the bomb.

Tonight – a night with friends! Have a wonderful weekend! Hearts, stars and studs!

Now Playing Paula Abdul – Forever Your Girl

photos via this geek

My melting brain

2011-02-16T16:51:00.001Z

I can’t just leave rats up on my blog but I’m having trouble feeling inspired lately. I need something to happen. Well, the truth is I need to make something happen.

via CONFETTI SYSTEM
(Wish the photo above could be my little space atm!)

Case of the Fridays

2011-02-11T15:26:00.001Z

I guess if I can’t be a cat girl then this is about right.

This week has been kinda bleh. Hope yours has been better. Here’s a list because lists make me feel productive even though this isn’t, really.

x Visit this flickr with some of the photos above if you aren’t freaked out by rat babies.
x One man’s jewellery collection. It’s far more impressive than mine will ever be.
x The best black and brown’s I’ve seen this month besides these cookies.
x Super rad diy earrings. This lady is a genius when it comes to diy accessories.
x The new toast catalogue arrived today. Some of the photos screamed TAKE ME TO LA RICHARDA. But this one just screamed BUY ME. I love everything. I never want to wear anything tight again. That would mean a new wardrobe though.

Happy weekend and Happy Valentine’s day for those of you spending it on Sunday like we are. xox

Ear Heart You

2011-02-11T01:52:00.001Z

I happen to love the bear trap studs!

No you hang up!

2011-02-10T16:04:00.001Z

Valentine’s Day jewellery that screams – MINE! Pieces that will really scare off an anti-V-dayer or even your partner!

Stay tuned for the next post with jewellery that a stalker probably wouldn’t pick out.

((click the photos to fly away))

Return to your childhood

2011-02-08T16:59:00.001Z

Notice how there aren’t any wheelers – that’s because they scared the hell out of me.

Return to Oz!

Kitty Convo

2011-02-07T23:34:00.001Z

(This Etsy collection represents the mood I get in after I’ve visited Fieldguided.)

Ryan and I had a conversation about cats the other day. I’ve never had a cat but he did for a short time when he was young. I am a huge dog lover and he is too. We’re pretty sure we wouldn’t be able to adopt a dog atm because of rules about how big our pretty much nonexistent garden is. *sigh* One day but just not now. So, I thought for the first time about REALLY getting a cat. I’ve said before about how I’m allergic to cats but how I love them and think they are so mysterious.

My Mom had two cats named Big and Little. One summer, I was visiting and Little was under the couch. Next thing I know, Little took a swipe at my face. I was fine but shaken up. I know dog language so well that I thought tail wagging was a good thing!? It totally freaked me out and that’s probably why I think I never know what they’re going to do.

My bff’s kitten was so in love with my face that she decided to pounce on it as I was sleeping. And once at my friend Anna’s (who fosters kitties – how sweet is that?) I spent the night with my head out the window because of the cutest pair of black kitties. So yes, I am around kitties sometimes. I pet them and my eyes & lungs suffer.

Anyway back to the getting kitty convo Ryan and I were having…People have said that I just need to be around cats and stick it out and my allergies will just go away. What if they don’t and we’ve adopted a kitty we can’t keep? Maybe I’m just desperate for a pet (no offence Tella, our sweet lil hamster)?

I know for a fact that we’re going to have at least 3 dogs one day (<3 <3 <3) and maybe when we have a little one (yes one as in a baby, no not any time soon, Mom & Dad…relax) and he or she might ask for a pretty kitty - maybe then we’ll have a one. But for now they will remain mysterious. I’m just going to keep falling in love with the kitties I see in windows – on screen and off, when we visit friends houses and random kitties crossing the road (eesh!).

When you’re thinking about getting a pet – really think about it. I’ve had lots of dogs in my life, big and small, crazy and lazy. Find the best pet for your lifestyle and family. Make your pet’s life as wonderful as it makes yours.

And that is the end of the kitty convo.

Click the photos to fly to the Etsy shop they belong to. Also, I know it’s a fox. Isn’t it rad?

TmT

2011-02-07T02:19:00.001Z

This is what too much time on Polyvore does. I couldn’t/wouldn’t ever wear something this short without leggings or tights. How do these girls get away with this?! They just don’t care if their bumnthings are hangin’ out? Plus brr.

I sound old.

tunic via Nasty Gal

Glamour

2011-02-05T03:34:00.001Z

I cannot even.

Christine Dior Christian Dior S/S 2011

via Caroline Krews

The Broke Valentine pt.1

2011-02-03T16:53:00.001Z

This seems easy enough. You can download it here and I suggest reading the comments because they were giving some pretty good tips. And if your fingers just won’t do the folding…simply write a love letter.

I’ll give you some suggestions for your handwritten message on your heart:

1. Happy Valentine’s Day! I promise to make you a big fat juicy hamburger with the wrong pickles you bought.
2. You make me feel like a natural woman. So, I promise to shave my legs every day for a week.
3. You + Me = US (omg please tell me someone remembers that song)

K, so maybe you shouldn’t take my advice on this one. Ryan and I say some pretty weird things to each other. Well it’s mostly me saying weird things to him. I don’t want your Valentine to crumple up your paper heart. And if you don’t have a Valentine, enjoy it. I used to write in my lame LiveJournal about how I’d spend my Valentine’s Days on the couch with my date…which was usually a bag of chips. Now that I’ve got my man, we’ll probably just do the same thing…but together. :) No but seriously, I’m making him take me to the zoo.

More soon…

What do you think should I do about my hair dilemma?
	Keep it long just don't grow it out to your bum.
	Short, Shawty!
	Why not try a boring happy medium?
	You're just going to do whatever you want anyway.
	Ask for "the Britney" and end your suffering.

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