Dandelions, Butterflies

Engagement Photos

2012-02-24T23:18:00.005-08:00

A little while ago I got the chance to photograph two people I have the utmost respect for. I got the chance to "be a part of their story" as Jared so nicely put it. I am so glad for that too because I know these two will do big things as a couple and I love them dearly! Congratulations Jared and Kiralee I know you two will be happy for a long time!

(I can't believe my one of us quadruplets is getting married!!!)
& thanks Kendra for your help and editing!

Music Monday: Girl Power

2012-02-20T19:01:00.000-08:00

I remember in 6th grade saying I didn't like female singers and that I preferred, well pretty much anything Shae put on mix CDs. But man how I have changed my mind since. This is a list of 5 songs by female artists that changed my world.

1. Ella Fitzgerald - "The Lady is a Tramp"
Her beautiful jazz voice, her 13 Grammys, she really is "The First Lady of Song".
2. Lilly Allen - "Smile"
Her clever lyrics and beautiful accent sure make me smile.
3. Zooey Deschanel (She&Him) - "Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?"
When I heard her sing in Elf I knew if she released an album I'd buy it. With 3 She&Him CDs in my library, I'm a happy camper.
4. Joss Stone - "I Put a Spell on You"
She's got a powerful voice that sings to my soul.

5. Florence Welch (Florence and the Machine) - "Drumming Song"
If you haven't seen a pattern, I'm a fan of powerful voices (at least when it comes to girl power) and Miss Welch is just that: Powerful.

Listen to the playlist HERE.

II

2012-02-18T10:27:00.000-08:00

A post Valentines day girls celebration!

Fashion Friday: Presidents Day Edition

2012-02-17T11:02:00.000-08:00

A lot of you will probably be enjoying this 3 day weekend thanks to those Presidents of past, present and future. Here is 2 outfits to help you appreciate them, and your weekend in.

Shutter Time

2012-02-16T18:45:00.000-08:00

My loves, my camera's!

Photography is a big part of my life and film photography is my favorite, it has the most character.

Each camera has it's own personality, and it shows in its pictures.

I have a collection of film camera's, some older, some newer, but, mostly old ones.

Most no longer work, but there are a few that do.

Even if you don't appreciate the camera, you can appreciate the pictures.

Polaroid

Electro 35, my baby, the one I use the most

Mom's camera from high school, it's a shame it no longer works

Holga, from Urban outfitters, takes the most beautiful of pictures

She is Kierra's, but is most fun to look through

Polaroid, I just need some film : ]

Twin Lens, she is what started this collection

New edition, her name is Mini, she is so cute!

New edition as well, video camera

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-14T22:53:00.000-08:00

{Image via Bando}

A Valentine Soiree

2012-02-14T22:37:00.000-08:00

These pictures are from last year but I thought I would share them with you anyways. We had a pretty awesome time. The amazing red velvet cupcakes Cassie made for us last year still haunt my dreams.

Music Monday: Starting Strong

2012-02-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

One thing that we haven't talked about much in this blog is music. Which is odd because it is a very important part of my sisters and my everyday life.
Starting now I we will have Music Mondays a list of 5 songs you should look up!
HERE is the playlist.

1. Wilco - A Ghost is Born - "Handshake Drugs"
Great vocals, kinda catchy. It helps get me through a long work day.

2. Lana Del Rey - Born To Die - "Blue Jeans"
Addicting song, amazing and unique voice. I just got this whole album from my Mama for Valentines day.

3. Kimbra - Vows - "Cameo Lover"
Well anything Kimbra, I could watch her videos on repeat all day!

4. Of Monsters and Men - My Head is an Animal - "Little Talks"
Sweet duets and witty lyrics. All I can ask for!

5. The Naked and Famous - Passive Me + Aggressive You - "Punching in A Dream"
Upbeat, get stuff done type of music.

Tattoos

2012-02-11T00:24:00.000-08:00

Some people hate them.
Some people love them.
Some tattoos are clever.
Some tattoos are dumb.
Some are spiritual.
Some are funny.
Here is a few of some of my favorites I've come across.

Fashion Friday: Notebook Edition

2012-02-10T10:20:00.000-08:00

Valentines day is just around the corner and so I thought I would treat you this fashion Friday with inspiration from one of the greatest written love stories: The Notebook. This enchanting tale of forbidden love is definitely one of my favorite movies, and books. Also I love Rachel McAdams, and her character Allie in this. Her style is perfection. Here is an outfit fit for the perfect valentines date!

Be Mine

2012-02-06T22:04:00.000-08:00

A little Valentine inspiration for you from around the web

Cute Cute CUTE!

Martha's ideas

Wooden Valentines

Ha.

My favorite. Can't imagine why.

Fashion Friday: Olive Oyl Edtion

2012-02-03T10:20:00.000-08:00

This week it is my favorite character from the classic Popeye cartoon's: Olive Oyl!

Brian Dettmer

2012-01-30T10:48:00.000-08:00

Today while surfing the web in between classes I found myself flipping through a slide show of sculptures so unique, and so intricate, my brain didn't really know how to take it all in. So with that I am sharing a few pieces of Brian Dettmer's work with you. Click Here for a link to his website.

Here is a wonderfully written excerpt from his website explaining how he creates these beautiful pieces of art:

"In this work I begin with an existing book and seal its edges, creating an enclosed vessel full of unearthed potential. I cut into the surface of the book and dissect through it from the front. I work with knives, tweezers and surgical tools to carve one page at a time, exposing each layer while cutting around ideas and images of interest. Nothing inside the books is relocated or implanted, only removed. Images and ideas are revealed to expose alternate histories and memories. My work is a collaboration with the existing material and its past creators and the completed pieces expose new relationships of the book’s internal elements exactly where they have been since their original conception."

Fashion Friday: Marilyn Monroe Edition

2012-01-27T19:25:00.000-08:00

"Everyone's a star and deserves the right to twinkle"

Recently there has been so much Marilyn and I just can't get enough. I am especially excited for the show Smash to start, it is about creating a Marilyn Monroe Musical, and it is fantastic. Follow the link on the bottom to get a sneak peak of the series which I am LOVING, and by sneak peak, they mean the entire first episode. Or you can just wait for it to play on TV in a few weeks.

Marilyn is witty, smart and so super sexy! Her beauty is timeless!

Watch SMASH on Hulu!

"I've been on a calendar, but I've never been on time"

Sofa Hunting

2012-01-24T11:12:00.000-08:00

When I moved in to my apartment I was blessed with a free second-hand sofa. It's big, comfy and a little bit...dated. For the last 2 years a well fitted slipcover has done the trick but my slip cover patience is wearing rather thin. You can buy the best slip cover in the world and you will still have to tug, tuck and adjust it every other time you sit on it. It's time to put my tax return money towards a good cause and invest in a new couch. My requirements: comfort and tufting. Here are a few that I've been looking at.

This one from West Elm is my favorite so far. I'm drawn to it in dandelion or lagoon, an amazing shade of blue, but my practical mother says I should go for something a bit more neutral due to the fact that I am changing around my apartment so often. She's probably right.

This one from World Market. It isn't tufted, but it is affordable and has pretty lines.

This handsome splurge from Anthropologie. He will not be coming home with me but makes for good inspiration. Check it out in chartreuse! I looooove it.

Fashion Friday: Etta James Edition

2012-01-20T11:08:00.000-08:00

Today is a sad day for the fantastic Etta James has passed on, but her legend will live forever. She was known for her blond hair and unmatchable voice. She opened up the world of blues for women, and for controversial issues.

My mother always wanted me to be glamorous.
- Etta James

Snow Day

2012-01-18T12:01:00.000-08:00

If you are looking out your window right now and seeing blankets of white like me, then happy snow day! Enjoy some cocoa, build a snowman and drive safe.

{Image via here}

One Week to a New Closet

2012-01-16T23:05:00.000-08:00

So yesterday the bar in my closet finally took its inevitable tumble. Honestly, I and anyone who has ever seen the bowing bar in my closet was surprised that it had lasted this long without breaking. Here is the damage...

I think that shelf up above might be next.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I had already been sorting and organizing my closet all night when, much to my surprise, this was the image that came up when I visited one of my regular blog reads, Ruche.

Go here for the details: http://bit.ly/vZHjl5

Hopefully I will have a clean, organized and structurally sound closet by the end of the week. I will be sure to share the results when I'm all done.

Craft Night: Soap

2012-01-15T14:38:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like some good clean fun! Pun very much intended. These are actually pictures from a craft night we had nearly a year ago, but it was a fun and easy project so I decided to share.
The only supply I didn't already have at home was the glycerin. The soaps were made out of citrus zest, berries and herbs from my mom's garden and my refrigerator. Follow this link to learn how.

Ta-da!

Fashion Friday: The Girl With the Pearl Earring Edition

2012-01-13T11:06:00.000-08:00

Today's outfit is inspired by this work of art titled The Girl With the Pearl Earring created by Johannes Vermeer in 1665, outfit complete with earings and scarf (just not wrapped around the head).

Have a wonderful 3 day weekend!

All Stars

2012-01-11T10:35:00.000-08:00

While many of you may not care even the slightest, I am overjoyed that Project Runway All Stars premiered last week on Lifetime.

I'm rooting for this pint-sized cutie from season 8, Mondo Guerra. I have to share some pictures of him and his designs because I'm a tiny bit obsessed. He rocks short shorts, bow ties, knee highs, suspenders, boots and amazing hats and hair styles all the time. I just can't keep my eyes off of him. His designs are full of color, pattern and texture and if I could get my hands on some of his looks I would totally wear them to Safeway (you know what I mean mom).

Fashion Friday: Star Wars Edition

2012-01-06T10:21:00.000-08:00

Recently Kierra and I have been watching all the Star Wars movies and I was absolutely captivated by the clothing, specifically Padme's outfits. They were crazy, and made me wish I could dress as crazy amazing as her, but instead I will settle for something a little more subtle, and well, practical, and with a pop of red.

May the Force be with you!

2012

2012-01-01T10:50:00.000-08:00

"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man." ~Benjamin Franklin

Happy 2012!

{Image via Bando}

A Little Adventure on a Beautiful Day

2011-12-30T20:48:00.000-08:00

Kierra and myself have been long overdue for a photographic adventure. Today was so beautiful that we had to stop playing video games for a moment and appreciate how wonderful it is. Here is what became of it.

Fashion Friday: 2011

2011-12-30T17:40:00.000-08:00

Here you will find my 10 favorite trends of 2011. These peices can be mixed and matched to many beautiful combinations!

1. Boot Socks

2. Oxfords

3. Tights and shorts

4. Vintage inspired designs

5. Oversized sweaters

6. Skinny belts

7. Knit sweaters, hats, headbands, socks, ect.

8. Cowel/Circle/Infinity scarves

9. Colored skinny pants

10. Maxi skirts

Glitter

2011-12-28T18:41:00.000-08:00

I know it's not Friday but I think it's my turn to share some fashion tips. These are addressing one trend that is really starting to grow on me: sequins. There are so many different ways to wear them! Here are a few different outfits I put together.

So bring in the new year with a new take on sparkle!

Wrap it Up

2011-12-24T11:32:00.001-08:00

Hopefully you all have your gifts wrapped and ready for Christmas by now, but if that's not the case then here are some cute ideas from around the web and under my tree.

How to make...
a paper bow
a tissue paper pom pom

{Sources: A Beautiful Mess, Design Sponge, Martha Stewart}

Fashion Friday: Christmas Edition

2011-12-23T15:44:00.000-08:00

A classic Christmas tale inspired outfit, from one of the most memorable of Christmas stories.

I'll Be Home For Christmas

2011-12-19T15:10:00.000-08:00

Oh, it just feels right having my friends home from college (and North Carolina!) for the holidays! In honor of their homecoming I decided there is no better way to celebrate than with a party, right?

We set up a cocoa bar complete with white and milk chocolate cocoa, candycanes, peppermint syrup, and of course marshmallows! We also had a pot of apple cider and many tea options.

We decorated with lots of candles and silver, white, green and red dishes.

I can't have a party without making cupcakes, these were peppermint cupcakes with a white chocolate frosting rolled in white sugar and crushed candycanes.

We had a wonderful evening, I loved every minute of reuniting with friends old and new and am glad that I had that night to celebrate this Christmas season with them.

Fashion Friday: Christmas Party Edition

2011-12-17T15:45:00.000-08:00

Tis' the season for Christmas parties!

(Sorry this is not really friday, us girls went on a spur of the moment thrifting adventure)

If you are feeling uninspired by what to wear here is a few idea's to get you one step closer to that eggnog and finger food, and enjoying the company of friends of old and new.

Have A Very Merry Holidays!

(these girls are amazingly talented, ignore anything after the first 1:40)

Feeling Foxy

2011-12-13T12:00:00.000-08:00

Move over trendy owls, foxes are the new adorably awesome animal in town. Here are a few of my favorite foxy finds...

A few items from Etsy like this stuffed fox, a pillow and this adorable kids hoodie.

All this jewelry from beautiful Madewell.

These slippers from Urban Outfitters.

And finally, there are tons of foxy finds at Night Owl Paper Goods.

Fashion Friday: Home Alone Edition

2011-12-09T11:47:00.001-08:00

It is Christmas time, and in that Holiday spirit I am creating a look inspired by Macaulay Culkin's hysterical character Kevin McCallister. Enjoy the holiday's!

And keep an eye out there is definately some more holiday posts to come!

Homemade Holidays: All That Glitters

2011-12-06T22:20:00.001-08:00

I have been going a bit overboard decorating for Christmas this year. Here is a glimpse of what I made this week.

All these colors came in one pack... it called to me.

A little Christmas cheer for my dining room.

Normally I wouldn't be one to cover up a window, but when the view from that window is a carport, I can get over it.

Fashion Friday: 1987 Edition

2011-12-02T13:15:00.001-08:00

It is Sharayah's 24th birthday today! So I did some google searching for inspiration from the year she was born. I found out that Alone by Heart was one of the top songs and couldn't resist. I heart Heart. They are fantastic. This song is 24 years old now. Happy birthday sis : ]

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T19:52:00.001-08:00

"These are my Thanksgiving pants"

I'm soooooo full! But I've got my stretch pants on so there is still room for pie! Hope your holiday was delicious.

Homemade Holidays: An Autum Placemat

2011-11-23T22:23:00.001-08:00

I thought I might share my boredom inspired placemat, just in time for Thanksgiving.

All I did was sew up the edges of some scrap muslin with one of the cute stitches on my machine, stenciled on a few leaves and then tied on some fringe for a little extra pizazz. Easy-peasy.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Fashion Friday: Rachel Berry Edition

2011-11-18T10:36:00.001-08:00

Not only is her voice loud and powerful, so is her fashion. Rachel Berry has been known for some very questionable fashion choices, but with a little bit of refining, these outfits can be golden. She owns her unique preppy style and I admire that. It packed full with tall socks, plaid, argyle, skirts, bows and cardigans.

Ooh now what did I find??

2011-11-16T18:54:00.000-08:00

While strolling Pinterest I came across this beautiful discount website, it's prices amaze me as well as it's products.

Set of two Round Brass Birdcage Card Holders (19" & 13")$18.99 24" Here Comes The Bride Wood Sign
$28
34" Wooden Buffet Stand$39

Treats and snoozin, snoozin and treats...

2011-11-15T23:12:00.001-08:00

These videos make me laugh until I cry. Every. Time.