h.b.goods

Good Thing You're Here: Lily Farag

2011-08-04T14:16:00.000-07:00

I love this new site, Good Thing You're Here. It's a collection of artists and creative peeps who have fun jobs doing what they love. Today, one of my favorite artists and dearest friends, Lillian Farag, was featured. Enjoy the fun interview & the adorable pics of Lily, her new studio space, and her fab artwork!!
xo

Dolan Geiman

2011-05-26T16:10:00.000-07:00

I met Dolan a few years back through my friends Halligan & Adam Smith and totally adored his work. Today I stumbled across his latest goods, hand painted wooden pennants, on Cafe Cartolina. I really LOVE them. Such a clever idea.

-HBW

Lucky Day's Spring Arrivals...

2011-05-04T08:36:00.000-07:00

This week has been a busy one at Lucky Day, we have a ton of new goodies and these frogs keep catching my eye... they would be a great addition to a wall display of a flower frog collection, like this one that I shared with D*Sponge readers a few months ago!

When You Leave The Earth

2011-05-02T16:27:00.000-07:00

Support the making of this beautiful film by Jessica Collins via KICKSTARTER.

Back In The Day Bakery's First Cookbook... coming Spring 2012

2011-04-26T22:04:00.000-07:00

I've just returned from a 2 week "business" trip in my favorite city, Savannah, Ga. I was there assisting my dear friends, Cheryl & Griff Day, during the photographing of their very FIRST cookbook. When I was asked to be a part of this experience, I had no idea how HUGE the project would really be- 75 recipes baked, styled and photographed (& only a few consumed)... it was an INTENSE 8 days, to say the least.

I am so grateful & honored to have been included in this cookbook-to-be. Lucky Day and my family provided props for the shoot, and I delivered the goodies safely. I also styled the bakery, prepared environmental shots for the book and assisted the bakers along the way. It was an exciting experience, especially working with such a talented team -Cheryl & Griff Day, Squire Fox, Cynthia Groseclose, & Sully Sullivan.

I've been back to reality for a whole day now, here in Florida, and I am missing the bakery & my short styling/ assisting gig very much so. Not to mention that I am missing the loveliest host, hostess and hostess pup- like crazy <3

Thank you, C & G for all of your love, trust & support.

xo,
H

p.s. come SPRING 2012, you will find copies of this BEAUTIFUL cookbook on shelves near YOU!!

Potting Party 2011

2011-04-06T10:57:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I celebrated SPRING 2011 with my mema, my mom, my aunts, my girl cousins & their daughters. It was such a beautiful day in Florida as we gathered at my mema Peggy's home. We all brought old & empty pots, plants, and soil- as well as the makings for succulent gardens & terrariums. It was so much fun, especially for the children (and me). We loved getting dirt under our nails for Spring! We even had a quick visit with a black snake in the garden- just before he made it over to our lunch spot under the trees, I yelped, S-N-A-A-K-E and leaped from the ground, scaring him back to where he came from!!

-H

Small Goodies for Mieke Willems

2011-04-05T19:05:00.000-07:00

The girls of Mieke Willems shared these fun little comb/ pendants a few days ago on their wonderful blog... what is it with cheeky little things like this?? they get me every time! And when i am shopping flea markets i have to resist the urge to peek into every case and dig through hoards of small treasures. Mieke's braid reminded me too, that i FINALLY learned to french-braid, and i can even braid my own hair now, thanks to Abby, my muse for fabulous braids!

xo,
HBW

Paul Isabella and the Glendale Chair

2011-04-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

Go here & buy this fab chair by furniture & design extraordinaire, Paul Isabella. I am also really loving Paul's Lodi Chair... so good!!

xo,

Threaded Beauties

2011-03-31T16:43:00.000-07:00

Loving the embroidered Penguin books by Jillian Tamaki, via a cup of jo. Her Black Beauty design is my favorite.

-H

Easter with Halligan

2011-03-30T22:10:00.000-07:00

Once again, Halligan Norris Smith blows my mind with her clever holiday crafts on D*Sponge... these awesome little retro-style easter baskets made my to-do list, INSTANTLY! They are soft & simple in design, not too much fluff or frills. Sometimes Easter is just too sweet for me- leave it to Halli to fix that. Go here for the full HOW-TO.

-HB

My Magic Pail

2011-03-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

My kind mother & aunt Brenda waited out an auction of junk to win me this magical little sand pail. It's made of rubber, and it's ridiculously adorable!! They know me so well.

Today on Gem Gossip...

2011-03-29T07:41:00.000-07:00

sunny at heritage auctions nyc

One of my favorite girls in all the world, Sunny Skurow, discussing her rad job at Heritage Auctions. Go here and read ALL about it. I have a thing for beautiful gems, but nothing like the girls on Gem Gossip. They are true gem geeks, especially Sunny! I love her stacked rings below- what a lovely mix of metals & stones!!

sunny's bling rings

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T09:22:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day! from Cheater Slicks on Vimeo.

From Halli & friends.
I too am hoping to find a pot of gold before the end of the day!!

And, Happy 35th Birthday to my big brother, K.P. Waring- love you.

xo

Team Sue Kee

2011-03-15T12:20:00.000-07:00

This weekend my family & I walked for MS, or for those we love and have lost with MS. The walk took place at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo, after dark. Sadly, we couldn't see much in the way of animals- but it felt great to be together as a family & supporting my sister-in-law Kjersten, and keeping the legacy of our family friend, Sue Honey Muroff, alive. We were Team Sue Kee (Kjersten's nickname is Kee Kee). MS is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain & spinal cord. The statistics and the newly developed information on this fairly young disease is overwhelming & mind boggling. Before Kjersten was diagnosed with MS 2 years ago I never knew how much could go wrong with our bodies without us even knowing it. It fascinates me, how fragile we are. Today Kjersten is doing great despite her MS and with hope & prayer, she will continue with little/ slow progression. Her strength as a young mother and wife is so encouraging...

xo,

HBW

The King's Pattern, Texture & Color...

2011-03-10T20:54:00.000-08:00

I have been dying to see this stellar film, The King's Speech, and tonight my visual, textile, and tactile fanatic-brain was fulfilled completely with goodness! I have to agree with the Academy Awards, this is the best picture I have seen ALL year. Not only was the display of color and design and the cinematography beautiful- Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, Geoffrey Rush- were all in great form too. I never knew the story of King George VI- what an honorable story of perseverance & a trusting friendship.
If you haven't already taken in this great film- do it quickly, so that you don't miss it in theater (like i usually do).

xo,
HB

p.s. i LOVE the English. this movie brought back so many of the good feelings i had when i experienced London almost 5 summers ago!

La Seine Love

2011-03-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

As a buyer for Lucky Day, my ordinary Mondays have turned into Market Mondays. Instead of spending my day off reading a book or going to the gym, I am hunting and gathering, picking up great finds for the shop and of course, for myself...
I grabbed this $10 painting of the Seine (i think!?). Can anyone confirm?? Anyways, I love it. La Seine or Not. The shadowy tiny-folk sitting by the river are my favorite part. For now this painting is on loan to my mother. I will just have to visit her bedroom from time to time to enjoy!

xo,
HB

Adele LOVE

2011-02-25T08:40:00.000-08:00

I am loving Adele at the moment. My aunt Angie shared Adele's Rolling in the Deep with me yesterday & today I am obsessing over this video recorded in Adele's home. God, how I wish I had a voice like hers. She could move mountains with those lungs. Here is to the Etta of this generation...

xo,

FleaBags SPRING 2011 COLLECTION

2011-02-24T11:23:00.000-08:00

Sand dunes, bicycles, baskets, sharks, lobster crates.

This collection takes you to the beach towns of New England, circa 1975. Fancy yourself in a small fishing village, carrying basket-weave totes and custom designed undersea prints,shielding your eyes from the sun with a leather visor. - FB

Might I add, that this collection can take you to the beaches of old Florida just as well! I spent this weekend in beautiful Boca Grande and boy how I could have used that visor and the shark-print waist wallet too.

Click here to read about my history with FB... I miss them so much!!

xo,

Florida in February...

2011-02-15T11:18:00.000-08:00

I promise, this isn't meant to make anyone jealous nor to tempt friends to visit...
I just had a lovely, sunshiny weekend here at home and I wanted to share it with you. My parents and I organized and cleaned the barn & my dad's new workshop, and at lunchtime we took the time to juice some Valencia's from my Dad's tree (the best o.j. in the world if you ask me, and i am a HUGE fan of O.J. & real FL citrus). Then we had tuna fish sandwiches & strawberries under an oak tree. This weekend was one of my most favorite weekends since moving home in October. It was simple and full of family & working together. Plus, the sun never stopped shining. Quite a contrast to last weeks rain ridden days!

xo,
H

Lucky Day Make-Over

2011-02-11T12:35:00.000-08:00

We have made quite a few rearrangements here at Lucky Day Emporium this week. Plus, there are lots of new vintage goodies...

I rather like the new androgynous look going on here- I'm ready to move right in!!

xo,

A Blushing Collection

2011-02-10T21:37:00.000-08:00

Ever since my third grade year, when Mrs. Donelle read a short story to the class about a man who lived in a pink house- I have dreamed of having my very own, PINK house. Though, I don't just like any old pink. It has to be a tasteful shade of pink. Something blush, or shell pink- preferably. Magenta or Hot Pink is definitely out.

It seems that everywhere you go in the world, you see at least one pink house. There are lots of pink houses in Florida, and Savannah always had it's fair share of pink, if not purple, humble abodes. There were pink houses in Philadelphia, and pink painted townhouses in Greenwich Village. There are even pink houses on the rocky shores of Maine. When I traveled to England there were pink houses everywhere I looked and in France the pinkish plasters varied from home to home. From what I could tell, Spain has a thing for pink too. One day, I will travel to Amsterdam in hunt of a pink houseboat- that's my ultimate dream. A pink house that floats!

Until the day that I can buy my own pink house, I will be on the lookout for paintings, prints & photos of pink houses. Somehow in the past 6 months, 3 different pink-house images (2 large paintings & one framed vintage photograph) have made their way to me; without even seeking them out, they found me in the form of gifts. I took this as a sign, that perhaps it is time for a new collection! The hunt is on...

xo,

Style & Natural Beauty Icon

2011-01-27T13:04:00.000-08:00

Can I just say, that I think my mom is beautiful!?
As I was running out the door, to open shop, this morning, I caught a glimpse of my beautiful mother in this circa 1994 photograph on the right. In the original photo she is amongst her pitiful & prepubescent children (not shown to save us all from those feelings of pure embarrassment). We were hiking up from a waterfall in Tennessee as my father snapped this shot, and for the very first time I saw her radiant 39 year old face, instead of her gawky acne prone kids (my siblings & me). The photo to the left is circa 1973, again my mother is a natural beauty and not to mention- stylish! I love both outfits, I would wear either of these on any given day. What a catch she is- and let me tell you, nothing is different today, 38 years later... I sure hope she knows it as well as I do!!

xo,
H

Flower Frog Wall Art

2011-01-13T16:17:00.000-08:00

This is my latest project for D*Sponge. A flower frog wall display. Flower frogs are a dime a dozen in antique shops, at estate sales and flea markets. In fact, Lucky Day Emporium has a bucketful in all shapes and sizes! Instead of letting my mom's beautiful collection get lost on the shelves, I helped her put these guys up for show. Go here for a how-to...

xo,
HaylieBird

how could i forget!?

2011-01-06T09:29:00.000-08:00

Floris Neusüss, 'Gewitterbild, Kassel, 1984', 1984. Collection of the artist, © Courtesy of Floris Neusüss
The image shown here was created by placing photographic paper in a garden at night during a thunderstorm, and letting lightning expose the paper.

Today at dawn I was not waken by the glow of the sun, but rather the CRACK and ROLL of a good old-fashioned Florida thunderstorm! If you've never experienced a thunderstorm in this region, I think you may want to add it to your bucket list. I had forgotten the difference, and the power of a thunderstorm here in my home state compared to the other places I've lived. It is no wonder that all of my siblings and I would run to our parents' bed on stormy nights- I was actually tempted to do so this morning...

The boom that woke me today is still resonating deep in my heart. It was a scare that no alarm could ever compare to. Tampa is supposedly the lightning capitol of our nation and after this morning- I know it must be true. One crack after the other shook our house and lit up every room. I could see light flashing down the hallway and across the ceiling too and out my window the view was the most wicked I had seen in a decade!

I am happy to report that with lightning & thunder comes an overcast, but cool & breezy day. I prefer this over yesterday's 80 degree "winter" weather!!

Top of the morning to you too, thunder!
xo,
HBird

WHERE SHOPPING IS A PLEASURE...

2011-01-05T13:43:00.000-08:00

LOVELY PACKAGING

CUTEST BAKERY EVER (CHECK-OT THE FLOORS HERE!!)

AWESOME LIGHTING, JUST HOW I REMEMBER PUBLIX AS A KID!

THIS POST IS A DECLARATION OF THE LOVE I HAVE FOR PUBLIX. YES, THE GROCERY STORE.

I AM A LIFETIME PUBLIX CUSTOMER, NOT ONLY BEACAUSE SHOPPING IS A PLEASURE BUT ALSO FOR THE QUALITY OF THE SERVICE, THE QUALITY PRODUCT AND THE QUALITY OF DESIGN. NOT TO MENTION HOW CLEAN PUBLIX HAS ALWAYS BEEN. IT REALLY IS A PLEASURE!

PUBLIX WAS STARTED BY GEORGE W. JENKINS IN 1930 IN WINTER HAVEN, FL (NOT FAR FROM HOME) AND HAS BEEN AN EXCELLENT EMPLOYER TO MANY A FAMILY MEMBER AND FRIEND HERE IN FLORIDA. GO HERE TO GET THE FULL STORY ON MR. JENKINS AND HIS GREATLY ADORED FLORIDA STORE. MY FAMILY HAS BEEN SHOPPING AT PUBLIX SINCE THEIR BEGINNING AND I HOPE THE LOVE PASSES ON TO THE FOLLOWING GENERATIONS TOO!

PUBLIX HAS THE ABSOLUTE BEST BAKERY, THE BEST FRESHLY MADE PEANUT BUTTER, THE BEST HUMMUS, THE BEST DELI SUBS, THE BEST PRODUCE, THE BEST STORE BRAND ITEMS, AND THE BEST PACKAGING OF ALL SUPERMARKETS. THERE ARE MANY MORE BESTS, BUT THIS IS ALL I CAN THINK UP RIGHT NOW. OH YEAH, THE BEST TERRAZZO FLOORS (WHICH THEY HAVE RECENTLY CHANGED TO FAUX TERRAZZO, BUT I WON'T HOLD IT AGAINST THEM!). i love PUBLIX.

AND JUST IN CASE YOU HAVE NEVER SEEN A PUBLIX COMMERCIAL, HERE'S ONE OF MY FAVORITES:

xo,

HBird

P.S. I HOPE THESE PICS HAVE SPELLED OUT A CLEAR VISUAL EXPLANATION OF MY PUBLIX LOVE AFFAIR!! i found most of these photos here on PLEASANT FAMILY SHOPPING, a blog dedicated to documenting the world of supermarkets' past... NICE!

P.P.S. PUBLIX NOW HAS STORES IN GA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE AND ALABAMA IN ADDITION TO IT'S FLORIDA STORES.

best of luck 2011...

2010-12-31T16:17:00.000-08:00

xo,
HBird

I CAN'T WAIT...

2010-12-30T14:45:00.001-08:00

i get chills every time i watch. oh, the tragic life of Jane Eyre! it's one of my all time favorites. march 11th, i'll be waiting for you!

LUCKY DAY'S AFTER-CHRISTMAS SALE

2010-12-29T12:03:00.001-08:00

25% OFF ALL CHRISTMAS ITEMS TODAY THRU SATURDAY @

LUCKY DAY EMPORIUM!!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.

Another Florida Christmas

2010-12-27T21:04:00.001-08:00

I helped my mama decorate this year and I never realized how much work it really is, and we even tried to simplify things, ha!

My mom has such a beautiful Christmas collection, it reminds me of the trip I took to The National Christmas Center last year with friends. If you are even in the vicinity of Paradise, PA and if Christmas makes you happy- then it's worth the time & money, I promise.

The inspiration for our mantel this year were the homes of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and Julia Daniels Moseley of Come to My Sunland, a local FL heroine. I stole the citrus from my dad's Valencia tree (shhh...don't tell!!). I hope you enjoy the details as much as I do.

I am so happy to be home this year. It's been a long time since I have seen a Florida Christmas all the way through, and though I miss the beauty of the snow, I am SO happy to have the sun this winter!

Happy holidays to all & wishing you a prosperous New Year...

xo,

HBird

p.s. the sweet felt mistletoe was a gift from my dear friend, abby of loveydovey designs

Rescuing the Golden Apples

2010-12-17T08:18:00.001-08:00

On Tuesday evening, just before midnight, I was picking Navel Oranges from the branches of my dad's tree...

On the way home from shopping late that night, my sister, mother and I watched the temperature drop on the truck's exterior display as we neared home, here in South Florida. We ran into the house to wake my dad from a sound sleep as he lay near the roaring fire he had built a few hours earlier- we were determined to save his Navel variety from the freeze this year (last year he lost the fruit of all three of his citrus')!

My sister and I bundled up and put on work gloves while my dad grabbed the wheel barrel and lights. In 15 minutes-flat we had the tree cleared of oranges. As I gathered the fruit I looked up at the clear sky to see the stars and moon shining down brightly. It was a moment out of a dream or a Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings novel- I am just so happy to be home for simple moments like these.

Speaking of Marjorie (once again), this past weekend my family and I celebrated our Christmas early with a trip to Cross Creek and Micanopy, FL. It was so fun to see Marjorie's home all done up for the season in an Old-Florida Fashion. It was also special sharing the Marjorie "love" with my nieces and nephew and my brothers and their wives. Golden Apples is one of Marjorie's more popular works, but one I haven't read yet... soon enough and I will tell you all about it!

Lucky Day Emporium

2010-11-15T14:45:00.000-08:00

Since I have been home, things have been REALLY crazy! This is just a new addition to my hectic schedule, but it's rather exciting. Last Sunday my aunt and my mother went to see a retail space for rent in town, just as curious entrepreneurs and by Thursday they had signed a lease. One week from viewing the location, they are ready to move in! I have been helping in every way I can, but mostly I have been acting as their graphic designer, which is rather fun- I must say! This here is the ad we are submitting to our local observer.

The nuttiest part of all this, is that opening day is just 3 weeks away!! Oh boy, am I busy...

If you live anywhere near, or if you happen to be visiting FL- you must stop in to see all the goods. Grand Opening is December 4th!

Feliz Compleaños

2010-11-07T20:31:00.000-08:00

Just a few weeks late (i prefer late over never), I received this festive little package in the mail for my birthday from the very best gift giver of gift givers, Halligan Norris Smith! Wrapped inside of the beautiful woven runner was this cookbook, which I am dying to delve into just as soon as things calm down around here in Tampa!! Life in FL is still great, just really, very busy and rather soon, I hope it will be really, very festive. Thank you HalliBug!!

Speaking of Halli... did you see this ROSE COLORED GLASSES party she crafted and hosted all on her own?? Incredible talent is what she's got! I know for myself, she is pure magic.

From Grandmother's Gems to Spider Whims

2010-10-20T12:16:00.001-07:00

Check out my latest DIY on D*Sponge today!! I had so much fun making these creepy crawlers, and I hope you will too.

xoxo

From Apples to Oranges...

2010-10-12T14:35:00.000-07:00

....is how one of my B.F.F.'s put my big move from the Big Apple back to the sunny Land of Citrus! I am so happy to be home with my family and so very sad to be so far from my lovely NY friends. Before I left I celebrated my birthday and farewell wishes with them and then I had a Farewell-Pie date with a few more, and then an unforgettable farewell-farewell Tuna Melt dinner with my nearest and dearest. It was one fabulous good-bye after another!!

Now that I am home making up for missed time with my family and settling back in, I am looking forward to keeping in touch with friends and to future visits whether it's here in Florida or with them across country or across seas (but I really hope that all of my pals will take advantage of me living in this tropical place to escape the upcoming winter- all are welcome at anytime!!).

This Sunshine State that I have known all of my life and missed so much in the past 7 years has welcomed me with breezy fall weather that I have completely fallen in love with over the past week! I will be so sad when it is replaced with the unbearable heat- it's just inevitable, but I hope for a happy and gradual adjustment, at least.

Pics above:

1 My going away treat for friends was a packaged cookie in the shape of FL (no pics, like a dummy!!) with this postcard attached.

Pics below:

1 Beautiful FL fruit waiting for me when i got home.

2 Scrumptiously Orange Cosmos from my Mema's garden that made me melt with their vibrancy!!

3 A Florida sunset- one of my most favorite things and more beautiful than pics or words can ever describe- everything looks like it's been set on fire at sundown

Market Tote Make-Over

2010-09-21T20:05:00.000-07:00

Go here on Wesnesday, September 22nd to see this fun and simple DIY project. I must give a special thanks to my dear friend, Sunny Skurow, for her assistance, inspiration and her fancy modeling skills for this month's post! I couldn't have done it without her.

Salt, Pepper, & Sunshine

2010-09-13T11:59:00.000-07:00

I have the hair, and now I own shoes to match.

Sorry I have been away for a bit- I am pretty much a gypsy on the go these days and getting here to write requires me to sit still... soon enough things will slow down in a sweet southern fashion, and I can't hardly wait for it! In the meantime I am slowly reworking my wardrobe to better suit Florida life, just as my NY pals are getting ready for the Fall weather. It seems kind of strange and I am sad to lose the change of season, but that's the sort of thing I am willing to give up to be with my family.

xoxo

Atticus Finch My New Hero

2010-08-30T21:10:00.001-07:00

Last week I read To Kill A Mockingbird for the first time, and I will never be the same again. I have never read a book so quickly, so feverishly. I fell in love with the Finch family and with Maycomb County and now I am yearning for a small southern-town life. Atticus Finch is my latest hero and when I think of him I just hope that I will be as good a parent and as good a person as he. This book was encouraging, inspiring and most of all extremely captivating- I am itching to read it again and it hasn't been but a week since I put it down!

I have seen the movie several times, but it never did resonate like the book. If you haven't read it yet, or if you haven't picked it up since jr.high- I suggest you do so now, before Summer is over. It was a great Summer read, and a quickie too!

xoxo,

i love you both

2010-08-20T10:05:00.000-07:00

The best etsy news in a very long time... Ginny B. Stelling has opened shop and it is yummy! Don't get too excited about these fab items for some of them have already sold (piss-ants for me, yay for ginny). I would just die to own that pair of married sea-horses! Enjoy & congrats G.B. Stelling...

Bringing Back Decorative Shelf Edging

2010-08-18T10:45:00.000-07:00

Check out my latest how-to project on D*Sponge. A d.i.y. on shelf edging, a good trick to hiding unsightly shelving or just for a fun flare in your home. Imagine this zig-zag cork in a kids room or over a desk to tack up notes and photos. It is super simple and takes very little time. Enjoy!

The Yearling

2010-08-16T11:20:00.000-07:00

I have just finished reading The Yearling, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings' most popular book about a boy named Jody and his yearling fawn, Flag, growing up together in the Florida scrub. Jody and Flag live on Baxter's Island with Ma & Pa Baxter (Ory & Penny). I didn't want to leave Baxter's Island- for about a month and a half I felt like I had moved right in with the Baxter family. Marjorie does wonders with her words, describing every little inch of the scrub in a way that brings tears to your eyes. This was a beautiful book and I certainly wish I would have read it as a child, like my father suggested. The Yearling is one of his favorite books, and now I know why.

Though I have seen it before, I have just rented the 1946 blockbuster The Yearling to watch, though I know that it won't be nearly as good as the book. The thing that bothers me most about the film is that Ory Baxter in the book is supposed to be one round brute of a woman and she has the personality to match, and in the movie she is played by Jane Wyman- a slight blonde woman- hardly fitting. Also, Penny Baxter is supposed to be a puny and unattractive figure- yet he is played by the anything but, Gregory Peck- Oh Hollywood!! With that said, I do remember the movie being pretty magical itself and I can't wait to watch it again and to relive my Baxter's Island imaginary vacation!

A "Pit" Stop...

2010-08-15T08:25:00.000-07:00

.... to see Georgia Peach, Ginny! I left the mountains to head to the airport, but I couldn't fathom being in Hotlanta without seeing my Ginny B., so we met up for a very short visit. Ginny took my mother, my aunt Carmen, Jacki and me to her favorite antique shops in Chamblee and of course she gave us the grand-tour of the new Stelling home, and it was marvelous. I wish I had more pictures- but I was in a real hurry. My mother was literally honking the horn in the car- in fear that I would miss my flight- so I had to run! I can't wait to make more visits to Atlanta, longer visits of course. Thank you Ginny B. Stelling for showing us around town.

P.S. before we met with Ginny, we had an incredible lunch at Star Provisions, if you are ever in ATL looking for a quick, inexpensive, yet relaxing lunch- go here. I am over the moon for their pork Banh Mi sandwich!!

P.P.S. did I ever tell you that Ginny is responsible for my nickname, HaylieBird? My middle name is actually Beth, so when people see my initials they assume my name is Haylie Bird Waring- I wayyy prefer Bird over Beth, but I think it would be hard to keep my family from calling me Haylie Beth (imagine with a southern drawl). Do you think it's too late to ask??

Revealing Humankind

2010-08-13T11:47:00.000-07:00

Last night I watched this documentary on Alice Neel, a 20th Century american artist known for her portrait paintings of friends, neighbors, family, and lovers. Neel's grandson, Andrew, is the documentarian of this film and I really enjoyed the exposure of his grandmother's past. The best addition to the film are the clips of Alice being interviewed- sharing her acute views on art and life. I found her inspirational and bold- never letting her faults get in the way of living life. I love the part where she talks of being Dr.Jekyll and Mrs. Hyde, even though she is smiling in her face- she is torn and bitter on the inside and painting is her only release of that pain and humility... this film puts a lot of things into perspective for me as a woman, as an aspiring artist, and as a person. By the way, I also love Neel's work. I love portraiture in general, and the way Alice capture's the intense gaze of each subject, her use of line, and color choices are all striking. I am thinking of dabbling in portrait painting myself- I'll let you know how that goes, if it goes.

p.s. the film is available on netflix instant!!

In a Cabin, On a Mountain, Overlooking a lake. Welcome to Tuscarora

2010-08-11T06:35:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful 5 days I spent in the Smoky Mountains with a small portion of my family. My parents, my aunt Carmen, my cousin Jacki, and I all met up in honor of Carmen's *0th birthday (she will kill me if I actually tell you her age, but I think she should be proud- she looks marvelous- I wish we were of the same blood). Carmen had never been to Tuscarora, my parents cabin, and it was her one request to have us all together there to celebrate with her- and because she means the world to us, we made it happen.

August is beautiful in the mountains. It is hot, but nothing like NYC heat- it is fresh and breezy, not blistering. Also, everything is green and lush, and our mountainside was badly in need of a trimming. During the day the birds sang and hummingbirds buzzed by, and at night the crickets and toads were happy to be alive and in love and they lulled us to sleep, like one monumental orchestra chirping and croaking through the night (though I must admit, these fellers kept me awake more than they put me to sleep, but I still enjoyed their efforts).

During our mountain-time days we read some, we baked some, we ate a ton, we shopped and ate well in Asheville, my daddy chopped down over-grown weeds and trees while we replenished his water pitcher and watched, we explored downtown Sylva, and drove around the mountains until I was sick. And then at night we ate some more, we drank a little wine, we watched movies and played games, and every night before bed we watched an episode or two of Mad Men (Jacki and I were on a mission to get our parents hooked, and i think it worked! my mother & dad are watching season 2 already).

Overall this trip was blissful and I hope my Aunt Carmen will agree. I wish you could see her in all her beauty, but along with no age discussion, Carmen has a rule about photographing her too- no pictures! Well, I did sneak the one above, of a typical mom and daughter moment on the couch- Carmen has totally called Jacki out on something, and Jacki can't even deny it! I know that look well, perhaps its a Waring thing...

xoxo

p.s. I can't wait for another excuse to head back to Tuckasegee, I miss it already.

p.p.s. if you are interested in renting out Tuscarora for your own family vacay- just contact me and I will put you touch with the owners (i know them well)!

North of Atlanta is a Gorge

2010-08-11T06:28:00.000-07:00

The day after my move I flew south for a quick mountain vacation with my family. I met my parents, my aunt Carmen and my cousin Jacki in Atlanta and from there we drove up to North Carolina where my parents have a little cabin in the Smoky Mts. On the drive up we stopped at this amazing little general store in Tallulah Falls, overlooking the Tallulah Gorge. It was gorge, as in gorgeous! We also had a little fun in the mountainside shoppe...

Oh yes, and did I ever tell you that I got a Fleabag!?? It was my parting gift when I left Fleabags as an intern, a token of thanks for the Fleabag toting and sweating that I did in the Spring and early Summer. I miss my days of work and learning there, and most of all I miss the days where work didn't feel like work and the girls were kind enough to take popsicle breaks with me and turn on an episode or two of Millionaire Matchmaker or Hoarders while we "took inventory"! Well, thanks to Fleabags- I am traveling in style now. Only if you could have seen my carry-on luggage last summer- yikes!

Check back tomorrow for more on my Mt. Vacation!!

p.s. i had just uploaded fxcamera on my fancy phone before this trip, hence the poladroids- i just couldn't resist!! i love the look, especially in the mountains.

p.p.s. my cousin jacki and i have very similar noses, as you can see above. it makes me smile. jacki is a little more like a sister and little less like a cousin. she is also one of my best friends, since like birth. xo

I Married Adventure by Osa Johnson

2010-07-27T20:10:00.001-07:00

Today is my official move out day from my apartment here in Brooklyn... I am exhausted and I don't feel much like standing or moving at all, but I had the urge to write this post as I wait for the UPS pick-up service to show up at my door. As I was packing I happened upon this old book that I bought last Fall in Little Rock, AR. I meant to write about it many months ago, but it always slipped my mind. I was drawn to the beautiful cover of the book initially and then when I saw the title and opened it's pages, ahhhh... Osa Johnson, a real life adventurer and explorer of the early 20th century. Roaming the earth and sharing her discoveries via her books and films made with her husband and exploration partner, Martin Johnson. I have yet to read any of this book, but from the looks of the pictures- Osa won't let me down on the excitement-end of things! Plus, if it isn't much of a good read- it is really special looking and fun to look through with it's beautiful photography of far-away places!!

The Painting

2010-07-27T19:08:00.000-07:00

Artist Unkown

Henry Darger (Unknown)

I have been elated ever since my dear friends, Lily Farag, Brittani Seach, and Sunny Skurow gifted me this painting (top) that I had swooned over each time I walked into their apartment building over the past 6 months. The first time I saw it I exclaimed, "hey, that's me!". I couldn't help but think so with the stature of the central figure, her pink complexion, red lips and those silver streaks- there really is quite a resemblance between the two of us!

Anyways, I don't expect everyone to love this painting the way I do, but I just can't resist it's quirks and even its dings and torn up corners. The pink house and the overall colors, the obscure cartoon like faces all varying in style... it reminds me of a Henry Darger painting, with it's characters heads borrowed from "the funnies" and the thick black outlining. I am also obsessed with the ghost-like fellow and "my" red pompom hat! I pretty much LOVE every detail. I can't wait to have this piece framed and hung in my future home. I just feel as though it sums me up in many ways, a painting has never fit me so well...

The artist is unknown, and I acquired the piece only because the neighbors of my friends hated it hanging in the hallway and wanted to throw it away- over my dead body! Thank you Lil, Britt and Sunny for rescuing the painting and making it mine o' mine. I have the very best friends ever, truly.

xoxo

The Island That Didn't Love Us Back: (continuation of previous post)

2010-07-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

So here goes the story of Staten Island...

When we first arrived we had no clue where we were headed. We wandered up the first street that we thought looked cute, and happened upon a small museum where a sweet woman directed us towards Snug Harbor- we were feeling loved already, and therefor we were loving Staten Island instantly! The walk from the St. George Terminal to Snug Harbor was a vast one, and thankfully the sun was resting behind pillow-y clouds for us that day. We walked along a busy and windy street and on the way found some beautiful old houses. The best part of the day(in my opinion) was when we stopped at what seemed to be an abandoned old home that had a plaque next to it's boarded up front door. While the other girls ran up the steps of the old house, i lingered behind to snap photos, and while the girls were reading the plaque aloud they heard foot-steps above them- suddenly they all went silent looking up at the ceiling of the porch- which prompted me to look northward, finding a completely nude and balding old man peeking over the railing of the upstairs balcony!! It was hysterical. When our eyes met- he bolted for the door and I was left speechless. I then squeaked out, "I think we should go!", I couldn't decide if I should laugh or die in the moment. The best part is that I was the only one to see him. The other girls didn't even believe me at first. I was in stitches, it felt like a scene straight from a Now & Then-esque movie. When we finally reached Snug Harbor we were so excited, it felt very dreamy, there wasn't another sole around, or so it seemed, and no directions or instruction on where to go. We just started to wander around aimlessly, though our empty stomachs were hoping we would find food first. Alas we happened upon a beautiful greenhouse and toured through its magical mugginess. Then at the exit we found signs of food- hooray- that is, until we approached the little food vendor who was just a tad less than friendly. The four of us, who approached the window of the "Garden Cafe" in rather high spirits and willing to eat earthworm sandwiches if that was all they had to offer, left running away with the cook screaming after us, calling us snobs- for no reason at all. We were more than baffled and mortified and still very hungry, so we headed for the info desk, where a sweet young girl directed us out of the park and down the road to a waterside grill, which we were very happy about. We enjoyed a relaxing and peaceful lunch on Staten Island (we discovered at the info desk that the man at the cafe had just learned of his son's arrest on drug charges from the night before- perhaps this was the root of his temperament!??). So, after lunch we headed back to the gardens of Snug Harbor and explored until our toes were sore, only on our way out we wanted to stop in and check out the seemingly awesome children's museum, where we greeted the woman at the front desk with no reciprocation. She also, was slightly less than friendly- snapping at us as we reached into the ice cream freezer for an afternoon treat- she was perfectly nice when we paid up though. We were yet again, confused by the hospitality here on Staten Island. When we finally left Snug Harbor, we thought perhaps we had left the bad tempers, only to meet the huffiest bus driver of all time on our way back to the terminal. When my sister didn't put her metro card into the slot properly he grumbled and rolled his eyes, and I just couldn't hold back any longer- I let out a good laugh and said something along the lines of, "well the rest of Staten Island hates us today, so you might as well too!", I said it with a smile and meant it to humor him and my sister, though I doubt he even cared. So, for every nice person we met on the island there was an unfriendly experience to match it, yet I can honestly say, the generosities of the woman at the museum early in our day, the girl at the information booth, and the young man who served us at lunch certainly stood out from the rest of them. Together those kind Staten Islanders, the beautiful grounds of Snug Harbor and the fantastic free ferry to get us there and back- have us loving Staten Island forever, no matter how welcomed those other islanders make us feel! Oh yeah, and I can't forget the nudist elderly fella. He made my day, a day I can never forget with three great friends.

(UPDATE: CHECK OUT THE COMMENTS HERE FOR MORE INFO ON THE MYSTERIOUS NUDIST ON ST. ISLAND!!)

Free ferry. Free a/c. Free coffee. Free fun.

2010-07-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

The weekend before last, my sister, brother-in-law, and their baby- i mean kitten, Penny came to town for a visit. They were headed North, moving to upstate Eastern Maine to spend time with my grandparents who summer there and perhaps to make a nest of their own there after my grandparents head South again.

So, while they were here in Brooklyn, we tried to make the best of the killer heat that has been lurking around for the past few weeks. For the most part we were in hunt for shade or free air conditioning (thank you Julie for Starbucks' freebies!!) or visiting friends who aren't insane and actually have a/c in their homes. We also spent most evenings on the rooftop, where we could just barely feel a breeze pass over our salty (just ask Penny!), sweaty bodies....

Afton and Sam came on a Wednesday night and thankfully by the time Sunday rolled around, the sun took a break, and Afton and I were able to venture out with our friends, Emily and Maura Grace. We all met up at the Manhattan Terminal for the Staten Island Ferry, which is newly renovated and heavenly in temperature (if the day had been hotter, I would have stayed there in the free a/c). Then we took the ferry across the bay, past our Lady Liberty, past big and small sailboats, and into the St. George terminal of Staten Island. While 90 percent of the boats passengers exited the ferry just to board the next ferry heading back to Manhattan, the four of us headed out into the great unknown, called Staten Island. We had no idea what we were getting into...

to be continued.

Bottle Stopper Menagerie Sneak Peek

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

Tomorrow, July 21st, my latest DIY project will be posted on D*Sponge... you can go here tomorrow afternoon to read what it's all about!

Short'nin' Bread

2010-07-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

I love to sing Shortnin' Bread to the baby I take care of here in Ny. It's one of those songs that I always found my mother singing whenever there was a baby around the house and like me, she always would forget the words and just repeat the chorus over and over! One of my favorite things about babies is that they don't care how good or terrible a voice you have or if you remember all of the words, they just love for you to sing to them. I am always making songs up and singing way out of tune, and as long as baby C seems to enjoy it- I'm gonna keep singing...

"Haylie's little buddy loves short'nin', short'nin', Haylie's little buddy loves short'nin' bread"!

p.s. how cute is the cookie carnival?? the song isn't until the very end, but it's the cutest cartoon ever!

Escape to Paris...

2010-07-13T10:53:00.000-07:00

Or live vicariously through Reba who has returned to The Paris Market blog with her featured Postcards from Paris entries. I love to read them and pretend that I am there with her. I want to go back so badly! I decided last night that I am starting a "Paris" penny-jar, any loose change will go in for a future trip abroad... please join me if you will!

Dead Horse Bay

2010-07-11T17:13:00.001-07:00

Inspired by our dear mutual friend, Ginny B. Stelling, a gaggle of gals (including me) and a guy took a trip to Dead Horse Bay in south Brooklyn last weekend to unearth some bits and pieces and bottles that survived the burning of the trash when this area was used as a landfill back in the day. My favorite find was an old "Pick Upper" bottle, a lithiated beverage- so fascinating, I had no idea such things ever existed! That bottle alone was worth the trip for me. It was a nice little adventure, not too taxing and the weather was just perfect. Before I leave NYC, I plan to do as much exploring as possible without spending too much money and this trip was the very first to scratch off my list. If you have any others to suggest, please do share!

Garden & Gun Made in the South Awards

2010-07-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

While I have been busy packing up my life in NYC, my mother has been busy searching for me a new venture: She recently forwarded me the contest entry information for Garden & Gun's "Made in the South" awards. Prior to this I had never even heard of Garden & Gun, and I am certainly intrigued... I sure hope I can get my hands on a copy up here in the city! From the look of their website, Garden and Gun looks to be my kind of reading, but in the meantime all of you southern artists need to be applying for this great opportunity- go here to find out more! I guess I will have to wait till next year- when I am working below the Dixie-line again to qualify for Made in the South!

UPDATE: I got my hands on the latest issue, the one with the pie on the cover, and it is wonderful! I am definitely subscribing. xo

Home with Marjorie

2010-06-25T19:00:00.000-07:00

The second day I was home in Florida my parents and I drove up to see Marjorie's haven at Cross Creek. It was more incredible than words can explain. Reading her novel, Cross Creek, I felt such a connection to Marjorie. She was a worker and not a player, she was hard headed, she was wise, she was driven and she loved her adopted home state. She is still an inspiration. She made me miss my homeland like never before. Something passed over me and opened my eyes up to see what I was missing. When I left home 7 years ago, I don't think I had one nice thing to say about Florida, but as soon as I was away and people started to assume that I grew up on a beach in a condo, I remembered what was so wonderful about my native Florida. No, I didn't grow up in a giant development on a beach or in a condo. I grew up in the middle of lush Florida. Not so far from the west coast waters. I grew up somewhere between big city, Tampa and big country, Plant City. I grew up canoeing down rivers and playing in the woods. Sneaking past strawberry fields and running through pastures. It is true that slowly Florida is becoming one big development, and I think watching things change before my eyes helped me to dislike home back when I left. Well now I realize to stop the sprawl from getting any closer to the countryside that still exists in Florida, it's going to take some real love. Some appreciation and some Florida state pride! Thanks to Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings I remember how wonderful a place Florida can be. I can see why my ancestors decided it was the place to go so many generations back. We are the Sunshine State. We have more than beaches (though we do have the best beaches). And we are a beautiful natural state when you look deeper than our overpopulated coastline!

You may be wondering why I said "we" as though I am a part of FL, and I live in Brooklyn, Ny. But as of two weeks ago, I have decided to return to my sunland! I will be heading back down south sometime this Fall. I just decided while I was home that I miss my family too much, and with times being tough- I need them and I like to think that they need me too. So many things have changed since I left and I can't bare to miss anymore. Ny, I hope you understand. My decision was a tough one, but I feel it in my heart and it's the right one. I am so happy I have been here to live and explore for the past year (and for the next few months), but it's time and I know you will always be here when I need you again.

xoxo

Micanopy and back roads, Florida

2010-06-21T21:52:00.000-07:00

On my latest Florida tour, I made a point to drive to north Florida to visit Marjorie Kinnan Rawling's Cross Creek, and along the way we made a few pit stops to check out the local communities... We found a few adorable fish camps and then of course we passed through Micanopy, a most charming little town right outside of Gainesville, Fl. It was really a rather scenic drive. So beautiful and green everywhere we looked. Next post, I promise to share the beautiful Cross Creek again, this time from my own perspective! I can't wait to share it with you...

HI-HO THE DADDY-O

2010-06-21T07:17:00.000-07:00

This spring, my dad really put his best foot forward and got to gardening! With his busy work schedule and family to tend to, it's a feat for him to get a garden growing each year in Florida. This year, he is making it happen come hell or highwater...

He is tending to his garden early in the morning before he is tied up in work and late into the evening (once he has finally makes it home from the office), I am so proud of him. I could tell when I was home that he was extra happy about life and I know it's his crops and knowing that he can provide for his family in this way that's feeding his heart with extra pride, love and energy this season! It is so wonderful because the entire family is benefitting from the garden- when I was home, we had glorious veggies and we got to spend good quality time as a family plucking peas, squash and melons from their vines. My nieces and nephew especially enjoy helping, it's something they aren't familiar with and it's so exciting for them to visit "mema & papa's farm" on Sundays to monitor the changes and the swelling in the peas and melons, to pick the vegetables, and then to cook & eat them at supper. I can't wait for the day that I have my very own vegetable garden and when my good ole' dad can show me the ropes...

xoxo

In Brint's garden:

(with seeds from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds)
fordhook acorn squash, metki melon, black diamond watermelon, boule D'or (golden perfection melon), banana melons, wando garden peas, old Kentucky string beans, rainbow Inca sweet corn & heirloom tomatoes
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY DADDY

Kipper Millsap

2010-06-17T20:21:00.000-07:00

It was about five and a half years ago when one evening after work I walked into Shop SCAD in Savannah with no intentions of shopping, just to browse, and when I left there that night, I left with one of the greatest finds of my life- a friend, named Kyle P. Millsap, also known as Kipper. Somehow he knew right away that we would make great friends, so he just came right out and said so, " we should be friends", and I agreed (I had seen him about the place before and I could tell from his sweet smile and his dandy style, that I'd like to have him around). The following weekend we went junking together with my sister, Afton, and then for the next 3 years we frolicked around Savannah together and soaked in all the southern charm we could handle (K.P. is still there soaking, and I often wish I was too) and now the three of us are friends for life. It's just that simple!

You have got to check out Kipper's new blog, A Dandy Man's Guide to Duds, Decor, & The Great Outdoors...

Kyle is wildly talented and has more style in one bow-tie than I could fit into a duffel bag! Be sure to follow him for fantastic DIY projects and decorator tips. Also, take note that Kyle illustrates all the wonderful little details on Kipper Millsap. I have noticed that he puts a whole lot of time and care into the place- a dedicated blogger indeed! I like that a whole lot.

xoxo

ORANGE YOU GLAD?

2010-06-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

After I left Orlando, my parents and I headed up to see Cross Creek (the homestead of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings) and along the way we found this treasure parked off to the side of a rural Florida highway on a small lot of land. As we passed it I yelled out for my dad to stop the car and turn around. Reluctantly he did so and was very happy that he did once he saw what I saw... I am in love with this little orange-ball structure and I can't help but imagine all the wonderful things that I could do with it. Perhaps a little snack stand, selling fresh squeezed Florida o.j., fresh fruit, coffee & homemade donuts!?? Perhaps a little curiosity shoppe for the snowbirds to take back some Florida treasures to their Northern homeland? Or maybe I would combine the two? You can see from the layers of peeling paint that this little stand has its own history, selling citrus and juices to selling flowers, and I'm sure there's more- I would love to know the full story! I'm so glad we took the back roads to Cross Creek. This orange made my whole week, I'm not even kidding you.

ORLANDO, FLORIDA

2010-06-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

My first day home I spent cruising around beautiful Orlando (yes, I said beautiful) with one of my best friends, Chelsey! I was so surprised by Orlando's quaintness and it's old school charm. It's a really big place, but some areas are just too sweet for words- something I didn't know existed in the land of Mickey. Growing up in Tampa, just southwest of Orlando, I never heard much good about our neighboring metropolis, yet I found them to be not so different in many ways. Here you can see our "ride" for the day, a baby blue vintage Oldsmobile Ninety- Eight. It was sweet, with bench seat and all- nothing like an old boat to drive around town in. Thank you Chels for sharing with me your lovely Florida home and friends, I had a wonderful time and can't wait for my next visit...

HOME

2010-06-04T05:58:00.001-07:00

i am so happy to be home...

edward sharpe and the magnetic zeros strike just the right chords.

Latest D*Sponge DIY: Spool Hooks

2010-06-02T20:40:00.000-07:00

Here I gathered old wooden thread spools and repurposed them as hooks in my home. Go here to see how to do this project yourself!

Animal Arts

2010-06-02T06:04:00.000-07:00

This past week I watched Mark Lewis' documentary, The Natural History of the Chicken, which quite possibly could be my all time favorite documentary (found on Netflix Watch Instantly currently). It is such a charming and cheeky film, it feels as though John Waters could have helped cast the individuals and the chickens too, but indeed they are real people telling true stories about their beloved feathered friends. As I was watching I was reminded of photographer Catherine Ledner who's book Animal House was a huge success a few years back. I have yet to purchase my own copy, but I often think of her work. Each image is sweeter than a piece of candy, I can hardly stand it! The images you see here are amongst my favorite animal snapshots, all by done by Catherine.

I love these little animals- one day I want to own the cutest chickens, the sweetest miniature donkeys, and the most well behaved pigmy goats. I also want to make adorable costumes for them, dress them up and have birthday parties for them. One day...

Go here to get yourself a copy of Animal House, after this post I am headed there myself.

Four & Twenty Blackbirds

2010-05-26T05:54:00.000-07:00

Sing a song of sixpence a pocket full of rye,

Four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie.

When the pie was opened the birds began to sing,

Oh wasn't that a dainty dish to set before the king?

The king was in his counting house counting out his money,

The queen was in the parlour eating bread and honey

The maid was in the garden hanging out the clothes,

When down came a blackbird and pecked off her nose!

On Sunday afternoon, after I explored Vinegar Hill with friends, I met up with my Park Slope pals, Emily, Chelsea, and Mollie for a slice of pie from the new pie shop in their neighborhood called, Four & Twenty Blackbirds. We got there late in the day and most of the pies were sold out except for the Buttermilk Chess and the Farmer's Cheese pie. We tried a slice of each, and they were both delicious- one was savory and the other sweet. I was really excited for them that they were selling out at the end of the day- obviously they are doing well, and it means that I will have to return before Summer to try the Apple & Pear with Rosewater! Four & Twenty has a great location, they are just between Park Slope and Carrol Gardens in the Gowanus area, and they are just a block and half from the closest subway hub. The interior alone is worth the visit, and they have more than just Pie, they carry other homemade treats, fresh fruit and coffee & tea too. I am looking forward to my next visit!

P.S. I love the Blackbird tagline: "Keep Your Fork There's Pie!", so cute.

Wednesday's DIY Sneak Peek

2010-05-25T06:14:00.001-07:00

UPDATE: THIS PROJECT HAS BEEN MOVED TO NEXT WEDNESDAY JUNE 2ND ON DESIGN SPONGE!! CHECK BACK THEN...

Here is just a little peak at the D*Sponge DIY feature I have prepared for tomorrow, using vintage wooden spools of thread. Be sure to read the DIY column tomorrow to see the final product of this quick and easy project...

finder's tip: to find your own spools, search ebay for "wooden thread spools", you are guaranteed to find something.

AND A VERY VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BEAUTIFUL MOTHER, GINGER FAYE WARING! I LOVE YOU MOMMY.

Vinegar Hill

2010-05-24T07:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon I wandered around south Brooklyn with my roommates and some friends. My roommate Blake was on a mission to share with us this deserted little historic neighborhood, Vinegar Hill. It was pretty magical and it felt very removed from New York City, even from Brooklyn- yet it is sitting just at the edge of the East River alongside Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights. Here is a little wiki-history on Vinegar Hill. If you are ever in the area of the Brooklyn Flea on a Sunday, Vinegar Hill is just a short walk away- and you should certainly make the trip.

A Sesame Education

2010-05-22T07:26:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been totally obsessed with watching these old Sesame Street shorts. I can remember being four-years old and wanting so badly to live on Sesame Street, I always thought one day I would get there- and living in NYC is as close as I'll ever get- I assume. I especially always loved these videos where they visit someone else's "world", same went for Mr. Rogers and Reading Rainbow. It's pretty fascinating, even today. The quality of these films is so great. Obviously it's something that the current generation of filmmakers and photographers are trying to recapture, but there is nothing so good as Sesame Street in the seventies and early eighties!

This Milk Crisis is by far my favorite video, even though there are so many things wrong about it! Not to mention it makes me a little queasy, but that's just because I hate milk. In fact I stopped drinking milk when I was about five years old, perhaps this video has something to do with it...

MILK, MILK, MIIIILK!
XOXO

Looking Forward To A Florida Vacation

2010-05-19T06:32:00.000-07:00

Just a few photos of home from prior visits over the years.

In two weeks I am heading home to Florida to be with my family for 10 days!

I am so excited, counting down the days. I miss my family so much, and I am especially excited about seeing my nieces that I haven't seen since last summer. I have planned out the week, because I want to spend every minute soaking up the greatness that still exists in Florida with the people I love most. I am almost positive my family thinks I am nuts typing up an itinerary for the week, but I know that if I don't, amongst the 15+ (immediate family) of us, there will be a conflicting schedule- so I just want to make sure we can all be together.

My plans include camping, visiting Cross Creek, a sleepover with all of my nieces and my one nephew- we are gonna watch movies, play games and bake a cake, I want to spend an afternoon lunching with my Mema & Papa on the Alafia River, I want to go to the beach and spend the night here for my ellie-belle's 7th birthday, to go boating or canoeing, visit the springs, go roller-skating with the family at the old roller rink where I spent much of my childhood (I still love to roller skate), I want to spend an evening celebrating my little cousin-Savanna's high school graduation with my family, I wanna go garage saling with my aunts, I want a double-decker pizza at Babe's (local goodness- terribly unhealthy, but an old time favorite), I want to spend a day Ft. Aalfia Antiques, I want to drive around rural Florida, spend an afternoon exploring the newly renovated Downtown Tampa and one evening I want to eat at the Taco Bus with my Mema & Aunt Carmen. Phew! I seriously can't wait for all of this fun, and I will be documenting every minute- no worries.

My trip actually begins in Orlando where I arrive, one of my very best friends, Chelsey, is living in Orlando these days. Chelsey is going to pick me up and we are going to explore her city together. Orlando is so close to home, but I don't know much about it besides Mickey Mouse lives there and my Great- Great-Great Grandfather, Aaron Jernigan, I think, was the first original settler of Orlando which was called Jernigan Town in his day. I am really looking forward to this day too.

XoXx

P.S. Last night I realized that I have lived away from home for nearly 7 years- how crazy is that? I can hardly believe it. I have grown so much since I left home. It's odd to think about it. I have always visited here and there- but it's never long enough. I usually only stay for a week at a time, which is about how long it takes me to gain 10lbs in Florida! What a good indicator that it's time to leave- this trip I am eating lettuce everyday, except for the day I eat Babe's Pizza, and even then- ONE SLICE- that's it!! Since it's summer I don't wanna bring back any extra baggage, if you know what I mean.

Babies

2010-05-13T06:04:00.001-07:00

Oh my!

I have to see this film. I have just learned of it's existence and watched the trailer this morning, and I am so totally in love. The idea of it is genius if you ask me, I also love babies and children and the idea of parenting and care-giving. The development of a human is so fascinating to watch, and here you can see it from 4 different angles around the globe. Though many of my girlfriends would beg to differ, I am certain if they saw this documentary they would change their tunes quickly! How can you resist the cuteness here, really!?? Watch the trailer below...

A Very Southern Birthday For A Very Southern Lady!!

2010-05-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

My last trip to Philly was in celebration of my best friend, former roommate, and old co-worker, Halligan Norris Smith. One of the 5 days I was in Philly Halli hosted a southern ladies night, where together we cooked up some real southern fried chicken, red beans and rice, and bisquick biscuits (something we both grew up on and LOOOVE!). For dessert there was banana pudding and a pecan tart. Yum. Yum. Yum. After our dinner we sat down to watch Steel Magnolia's, and though we had intentions of watching Fried Green Tomatoes and Driving Miss Daisy too, I think our hearts just couldn't handle it after M'Lynn's (Sally Fields) heart-wrenching sob scene at the funeral of her daughter, Shelby. Ugh... one of the best movies of all time. I just have to say!

P.S. Isn't Halligan's Southern Mantel Display so very pretty! I always love going to Halli's house to see what's new on the mantel. She is the best. Be sure to check out her website here.

Also, a VERY BELATED HAPPY ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY TO HALLIGAN AND ADAM SMITH!!!

I can't believe that somehow this date slipped my mind, but on May 9th 2009 I spent the day celebrating this marriage in the most wonderfully fashioned way! Together with friends and family, Halli and Adam put their special day together piece by piece. They were the genius behind the whole production, and it turned out more perfect than they ever could have imagined. We ate, celebrated and danced for hours under the Georgia sun and into the sweet southern night. It was a day I will never forget for the love of friends and family that came together that day it was the greatest carnival of all time! Go here for many more pics.

MING MAKES CUPCAKES

2010-04-30T07:26:00.000-07:00

I found this site via A Cup of Jo, and I have fallen in love! I can't wait to try one of these treats. They are so so beautiful, like tasty pieces of art. Also, there is more than just cupcakes. Ming shares cookies and savouries too. Thank you Ming for being so brilliant and sharing your creations. Go here for so many exciting recipes!!

xo

Philly Time

2010-04-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

I just spent a wonderful 5 day weekend in Philly, catching up with old friends and celebrating Halligan's 28th birthday. It was more fun than I could ever have asked for! It was a beautiful weekend too, despite the rain- on Saturday, I actually got sun-kissed while laying in Penn Treaty Park of Fishtown (my old hood). And on Monday while the skies opened up, I chilled on Halli & Adam's sofa and took an afternoon nap. This was a real vacation. The kind I really really like and need more of. The night before I left, all of my Philly friends gathered for Karaoke to celebrate Halli's bday, and In the Summertime by Mungo Jerry was my favorite pick on the line-up. The video especially made me happy, and so ready for summer in the city...
enjoy!
xo

p.s. great boots, huh?

FAREWELL MR. & MRS. GEORGIA (a little overdue)

2010-04-22T10:19:00.000-07:00

These two sweet peaches have left us behind here in NYC and headed back to their Southern roots in Atlanta, GA. I am so very sad to lose the company of Ed & Ginny B. Stelling, but I am also excited for their new beginnings! It's gonna be so great for them to be home and close to family and old friends. I can't wait to visit them on my next tour of the south. I am really missing home these days myself! A little part of me wants to follow right behind Ginny & Ed. The south can certainly be a magical place, so I can't blame them a bit for wanting to get back.

Also, Ginny and Ed will be celebrating their one year wedding anniversary come the end of May. I can hardly believe it, the year just flew by, it feels like only yesterday I was here (click for more pics) spending one of the greatest weekends of my life with some of my very best friends!!
Congratulations G & E !
I miss ya'll already.
xo

*photography by Josh Goleman

TOURING CROSS CREEK

2010-04-19T17:27:00.001-07:00

I have finally completed Cross Creek. I wanted it to never end. The life that Marjorie Kinann Rawlings lived is not for the faint hearted and certainly not for the materialistic. Her depiction of rural Florida life is truly enrapturing, though it is far from being P.C. and some of the backwards and old school ways of life are so appalling today (thank god for the Civil Rights Movement!!). I think that this book is a gem for capturing a time in our history so honestly and purely. Though I don't doubt that M.K.R. has romanticized life at the creek, she certainly doesn't leave out details of hardship in 1930's Central Florida. After reading this book, I aspire to be as hardworking and as great a person as Mrs. Rawlings. She loved her life and she loved those that made it possible for her live the way she did, aka her full-time workers. For those parts, she certainly lived a cushy life- but in a modern world- her life hardly seems luxurious!!
Right now, her home is my dream and visualizing every detail isn't enough! Luckily for you and for me- my sister, my sister in law, and my mother took a trip to Cross Creek a few weeks ago and they have been kind enough to share the tour with us via pictures. Thank you Afton, for the photography.
xo

P.S. Every bit of this Florida sunshine makes me yearn for home! It is truly beautiful.

People's Pops NYC

2010-04-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

If you frequent the Brooklyn Flea in the Spring and Summer months, then you are probably familiar with the booming success and excellent flavor of NYC's People's Pops! For two years they have "popped" up at outdoor markets and events around the city, and now you can finally get a People's Pop all year long, any day of the week- and you will always know right where they are- People's Pops has opened up a little popsicle stand (made of popsicle sticks) in the Chelsea Market, at the South Entrance on 15th Street (or across from The Lobster Place from inside of Chelsea Mkt). This means, no more trips to the Brooklyn Flea in search of an organically fresh homemade fruit pop, to find they didn't make it that weekend or that the Pop people are on vacation- it's always a bummer when that happens!

I ventured over to Chelsea Market yesterday afternoon with Alex from Fleabags for the Peeps Pops Grand Opening, to find the stand slammed with business (they were giving away free shaved ice!), and though I know the shaved ice is tasty, nothing beats their popsicles. I had the delicious Rhubarb and Ginger, while Alex enjoyed the drippy yet tasty Raspberry Cream. Wow! I love People's Pops. Do me a favor NYC friends- please go and show your support at the Chelsea Market, and for those who don't live here- here is just one more reason for you to visit this Spring/ Summer.

P. S. All of these great photos were borrowed from the People's Pops Blog, go here to read more about the Trio behind the business!

P.P.S. How brilliant, yet simple is the People's Pop sign, shown directly below...

KITTY AND THE BABY IS SUNSHINE READY

2010-04-12T20:08:00.000-07:00

As you may know, Kitty and the Baby is my sister Afton's vintage goods etsy shop that she runs out of her little Arkansas home, and recently she has added some great pieces for your Spring & Summer wardrobe. In fact, I think I am going to spend a bit of this weeks pay here at Kitty and the Baby myself (but only if I get a sisterly discount!). I must tell you that Afton is my idol when it comes to style and she is a killer vintage huntress. She is constantly finding the best damn thing in a thrift store in a matter of minutes, and that's why it's a good thing we don't wear the same size! The greatest news is that this little finder never hoards it all to herself. I am constantly looking at Kitty and the Baby going- why are you selling that!? But she knows, that she can't keep everything, she wants you to have some too. Go shopping here, ASAP!

xoxo

Good Friday

2010-03-31T20:26:00.000-07:00

This is certainly a good Friday in NYC, the most beautiful day EVER. I am so excited for my weekend too- Flea Markets, donuts & coffee, Easter Picnics, sprucing up the old homestead and lovely friends. Spring is REALLY here and I can't wait to soak it up day by day. Above is the start of my sprucing, a tiny vignette in my bedroom, above my desk. And the bottom image is of me with the most scrumptious donut you could ever eat. It is from Peter Pan Donuts in Greenpoint, a great little section of Brooklyn that I am slowly falling in love with. I will post more about P.Pan Donuts later, inside it is as magical as their donuts are delicious. Sadly, I can't eat too many of them since I am trying to stick to a gluten free diet still, but that's why we have Babycakes (which is where you will find me in line for a gluten free donut @ 10am tomorrow)!

Hoping April Has No Fools

2010-03-31T19:46:00.001-07:00

In these parts, every week or so lately we have been teased with the warmth and the glow of spring time~ only to be fooled and have it stolen away by dampness and the cold of prior winter months. I am so over the trickery of this weather and so tempted to stow away my winter coat and boots, but I'm still unsure. Hmmm... I certainly hope that April doesn't bring anymore cold showers. I can handle a little rain, but let it be warm at least, please oh please!?

Late last night while rummaging through some old forgotten things, I found these sweet little painted eggs that my mother sent me for Easter last year. I added them to our fruit bowl as I brewed coffee this morning. The sweet little New York Tugboat drawing in the windowsill is something I picked up from an artist at the Williamsburg Artists & Flea a few weekends back. The artist's booth and line of goods is called Small Home. She had a charming little corner set up there, I advise you take a peek if you are in the neighborhood.

Happy spring & I wish us all warmer & brighter days!!

Abby + Cherokee = LOVE

2010-03-30T20:24:00.000-07:00

Abby Hyslop of Lovey Dovey is now designing prints for Target's Cherokee children's wear and I believe Abby and Cherokee make a perfect match. Look at this gorgeous print Abby designed for this little girls dress. I am totally in love. I would like one in my size, please!? The colors make me so excited for Spring & Summer, for real. Yay for another of my very talented friends.

Footloose & Toe-Tackler

2010-03-24T06:27:00.000-07:00

This week I am on vacation. Well, kind of- I am kitten sitting with my friend Chelsea in Park Slope/ Carroll Gardens area for our dear friends- Emily & Paul. Last night Chelsea and I walked down Smith Street, grabbed dinner and then delicious flan and cafe' con leche for dessert. Then we went back home to the (sometimes) sweet little Omelette and watched an all time favorite, Footloose. I can remember watching this movie as a kid and being so in love with Ren (Kevin Bacon)- what great moves he has! I think my favorite part is when Ren teaches Willard how to dance, and that is followed closely by the Senior Prom where glitter falls from the ceiling endlessly. I couldn't help thinking as I watched the glitter scene last night that it was Ginny Branch Stelling's ultimate shiny dream come true. The other great part about this movie is no matter how hard you try, you can't sit still. Your feet just start tapping and bopping around, and this is when sweet Omelette turns not so sweet. Just imagine kitten claws to the tender toes. You will be sitting in peace and out of nowhere comes this crazy kitten claw, just swatting away. In the end I love Omelette. More than anything I want her to cuddle up in bed with us at night, but of course- no such luck! Instead as Chelsea and I laid down in Emily and Paul's big comfy bed last night, the cat just sat fully erect at the foot of the bed- watching & waiting for a toe to wiggle. That darn cat.

top photo of omelette (kitten) taken by emily a little while ago, she is bigger and friskier now.

Cross Creek

2010-03-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

I am currently reading & loving Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings' Cross Creek. It is Rawlings' account of life in the Florida "scrub" surrounding the Cross Creek region in the 1920's & 30's. Marjorie is an ambitious young writer who moves from the big city to this cracker country in rural Florida to cultivate and live off of her own land. She is ready to be inspired by the unknown natural Florida setting and finds more than just inspiration. She discovers life and a true love for the land and the community that she is surrounded by. She depends on her neighbors and they depend on her- she becomes absorbed by this mystical yet raw and sometimes harsh environment. As I read it I can't imagine making such a leap, from the overly populated New York City to the desolate, back-woods, snake and insect infested Florida (especially in those days)!

M.K.Rawlings is so inspiring and brings such light to a region of the world that I am so familiar with and forever fond of. Sometimes it is difficult to explain to people that I am from Florida, but I did not grow up going to the beach every weekend. We spent time at the natural Florida springs, or boating down the rivers and playing in the woods. Florida to me is cow pastures and orange groves under a blistering hot sun or a volatile thunder and lightening storm. Marjorie captures this side of Florida that seems so lost between it's two beautiful, yet very different coastlines these days. I know life on the beach and out on the gulf too, it just wasn't at my backdoor. I am homesick for my Florida home and even more so now that I am reading Cross Creek. It is such a beautifully written piece of literature and the people are so intriguing. It's hard to believe that they aren't just characters- they were real people. Above and below are images of Marjorie, her home, and some of her neighbors- including Mrs. Martha Mickens- the matriarch of the black community and a very inspiring and supportive figure to M.K.Rawlings.

The Marjorie Kinan Rawlings' Farm is still in existence and open to the public for tours. I have plans to visit next time I am home! Click here for more info.

L.L. BEAN SIGNATURE

2010-03-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

I was so happy to learn about the launch of L.L. Bean's Signature Collection, it's just one more reason to love this classic Maine based company ( and not to mention one more reason to love maine)!! The creative director behind this new line is the handsome, former L.L. Bean designer, Alex Carleton, also owner & creator of Rogues Gallery.

This entire collection makes me want to pack up, find my dreamboat and head to Maine to live in a cottage by the sea for eternity. Dressed like the model above, of course. If you know me, you know this is no new dream, but now I have the outfit picked out.

DIY D*SPONGE

2010-03-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to announce, that as of this morning I am a new Do It Yourself (DIY) contributor on the ever popular blog, Design*Sponge. Check out my first post here, and keep an eye out for upcoming monthly projects!!

2010-03-16T23:52:00.000-07:00

Just as I was getting back into the swing of things, my computer has failed me. I am finding it rather difficult to get to a computer around here, and when I do- my time is VERY limited. Please bear with me. I will be hauling my beast of a laptop to the electronics store before work tomorrow and crossing my fingers all the way there, just hoping that there is a solution- because purchasing a new computer is NOT an option!! Thank you roommates and friends, for offering your precious functioning computers when you aren't using them. I don't know what I would do without you!

Above is a photo of one of my favorite four legged friends, Fanny A. Lamb Skurow. Pet (daughter) and best friend to Sunny Skurow. Her amazing bed frame was found at a NY flea market and her bedding is homemade to match Sunny's. How much cuter could it get? I just had to share.

LATELY

2010-03-10T10:44:00.000-08:00

In case you are wondering where I have been: Lately, I have been trying really hard to stick to my new year's resolutions and sometimes that requires just a little more time, and a lot less blogging. I am learning to juggle life. It's a great thing. I must admit that this week I have fallen off the wagon some, though I am picking up in other areas, such as blogging. I will get it down... eventually. I have mostly been concentrating on budgeting my finances and getting into a daily exercise routine that includes lots of jump rope & jumping jacks (and now my neighbors hate me!). So far I have had good results all around. This week I am beginning to work on kicking my procrastination tendencies right where the sun don't shine!

p.s. i don't look nearly as cute as this kitten jumping rope, of course!

p.p.s. I have also been reading more than usual, two highly recommended books of recent: The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls & A Girl Named Zippy: Growing Up Small in Mooreland, Indiana by Haven Kimmel. Enjoy.

Emily Marie, Illustration Extraordinaire

2010-03-09T13:35:00.000-08:00

This post is long overdue, I apologize for going M.I.A. recently, but I can promise you I have good and healthy excuses! If you have read my blog before, I know you have heard mention of Emily- one of my nearest and dearest friends who I tend to have entirely too much fun with. For the past few months Emily has been bulking up her portfolio in a really magical way and I just have to share it with you. I hope you enjoy her work as much as I do...

Above is a sneak peek of the children's book illustrations by Emily for the book, Isobel's Birthday, written by our talented friend Sun Hashmi. Also, Emily has had some great success recently, launching new children's wallpaper designs with Hygge & West, check out her bio page on the H & W website here. I have also included some personal favorites below, including Emily's valentines from the past two years, and a fantastic barrette pattern that I just adore.

2010 Valentine, Broccoli Love

2009 Valentine, Mr. Rogers

H&W Circus Troupe Wallpaper

Hair Barrette Pattern, I LOVE LOVE LOVE!

Pony Show in the Snow

2010-02-10T17:59:00.001-08:00

This past Friday my friend Meagan and I made a special trip to Philly to see this amazing show, a collaboration amongst three friends: jewelry & accessories designer- Halligan Norris Smith, fiber artist- Maura Grace, and photographer- Josh Goleman. They make a stellar team. The three styled and created a photo-shoot featuring the sweet hand-crafts of these talented gals, modeled by miniature ponies. So perfect in every way! The Pony Show was held at Part-Time Studio's gallery in Fishtown. When I arrived in Philly with Meggs we were greeted by a snow storm and despite the blustery & wet weather, The Pony Show had a great turn out. After the opening we spent the night visiting with old pals at Halligan and her husband Adam's cozy home (featured here) and the following morning we woke up to 20" of snow on the ground!! It wasn't easy getting out of Philly that afternoon, but eventually we made it back home to NYC, just a few hours off schedule. I missed work, but it was worth it.

Thanks to our Philly friends for having and hosting us! We had a blast. And a very special thanks to my friend Kara for getting me to Philly- you're the best.

xo

Wishing I Were Home

2010-02-07T12:55:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while, I wish I was back home in the Florida heat with my family. This past week we experienced some wicked weather here in the north east, and we are anticipating even more this week. I do prefer the cold over the sweltering temps I was raised in, but on those days that I forget my gloves at home, like today, or that I can't find the tiniest bit of sun to warm my body- I begin to wish I was back home. For the past few weeks I have been craving a taste of home so much that I have been spending eight dollars at the grocery store on Florida grown strawberries, 'tis the season. The Florida Strawberry Festival will take place in a few weeks and I would do anything to be home for it. I haven't been in years, but it was one of the many highlights of living in Florida each year as a child. Berries galore, even fresh strawberry shortcake can be found at farm stands alongside country roads. Yummm. Today, I miss you my Sunshine State.
xo
P.S. Photo above is an old postcard from FL. I like it b/c it's the Florida I know best, beautiful hammock foliage.

Maria, I like your style!

2010-02-02T21:32:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that, before this weekend, I had never sat through the entirety of The Sound of Music!? No one ever believes me. I know that I "watched" it as a kid here and there, but I never cared much for musicals so I didn't ever pay attention and if I had as short an attention span as I do now- then I understand- this movie is lengthy! Not Gone With the Wind lengthy but it's a long one. (confession: Gone With the Wind is another movie I have never made it through without napping thru at least an hour of it.) So, now that I have finally focused long enough to watch this film beginning to end, I understand my friends (emily, abby, & paige) a little better when they break out in song at random moments of the day. I also understand Emily's obsession with wanting to be Maria VonTrapp, or at the very least wanting to dress like her. She does have great style. The dresses and the hats that woman sports through out are just dreamy. They make me yearn for summer, not summer in NYC though. Summer in the Alps! That would be perfect.
Thank you Emily and Paul for making me sit down and finally really watch!!

xo

Fleabags

2010-01-28T20:22:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of this month I started interning for Fleabags, a NYC based design studio that designs durable bags made from old stock/ re purposed materials. Fleabags is the product of two great friends, Shira Entis & Alex Bell, who share an appreciation for fashion and quality design. The very first "fleabag" was inspired by the two's love for shopping flea markets together, and not having a sturdy tote to encompass all of their great finds in a day. The latest addition to the Fleabag family, is the Salt Bag- newly featured on their updated site, fleabg.com. I have truly enjoyed helping out at Fleabags in the past month, I have learned more than I ever expected to and I've made great friends too. Yesterday I spent finalizing decisions with Shira and Flannery (other intern) on the Fall '10 collection- there is so much to look forward to in the coming seasons. I just can't wait!
Thank you Alex & Shira for taking me on as your newest intern- you gurls are the best!
xo

*Photos from Fleabags website

Reba Baggett Lives in Paris

2010-01-20T18:13:00.000-08:00

My friend Reba has done what I only dream of doing...
Last month she packed up her life in Savannah, Ga and moved to Paris! How adventurous, ambitious and inspiring is that!? Reba and I spent three weeks together this summer living with Emily and Paul and it was then that she told us she wanted to move to Paris, and as much as we wanted her here in NY with us, we were so excited for her. I was especially happy when Emily gave me the news that Reba had set the date to move- she was really making it happen! I love a girl who chases her dreams with such passion. I have been living vicariously through Reba (and you should too!!) by reading her entries here and through "Post-Cards from Paris", a project she is doing for the Paris Market & Brocante blog. Best wishes to Reba and I look foward to her many more amazing french-life experiences!!
I miss you Reba, and one day I hope to see you there in the gorgeous city of light.
xo

Family Gems

2010-01-17T09:13:00.000-08:00

For Christmas I requested copies of family photos, this is one of my favorites that I have received so far (it is a process, there are so so many!!). From the far left is my maternal grandmother, Peggy Jane, her aunt- Bertha, little brother- Benny, her sister- Robbie Alice, mother- Lily Orena, and her little sis- Linda Kay. They are the Smith family. Lily to me was Granny Smith, like the apple. I have always loved this photo- there is something so great about being able to see where you come from, what you come from. I can see my mother and her sisters in my Mema's face here. I love that. It is as if I have them all in this one photo. Now I need photos of my Mema, Edna Pearl, my dad's mother. Both of my grandmothers are beautiful, beautiful women, inside and out. I love them and sometimes I wish I could have known them when they were my age. I hope to grow to be just like them.
xo
P.S. I will share more family photo gems as I receive them.

I Heart Sunny Skurow

2010-01-16T19:54:00.000-08:00

This past Tuesday night I spent celebrating my sweet friend Sunny's birthday. Sunny lives in Queens in the most adorable apartment (one of my favorite places in all of NY) with two of my other favorite gal pals, Lily & Brittani. We are all Florida girls and we all love girl time. We also all love hearts. Sunny turned 25 on Tuesday and had all of her girlfriends over for a sleepover. We ate pizza, and Sunny's homemade Caesar salad with pink bubbly and Fudgey the Whale ice cream cake- yum! We watched some great 90's flicks like... Now and Then, Death Becomes Her, and Jurassic Park, while we painted nails and put on Mood Lipstick (like a mood ring)- seriously!? It took us all back to about 1995. The night was a blast and a great way to ring in 25. Also, the decor and the dog, Fanny, were over-the-top cute. Sometimes it is just so fun being a girl and nights like this make me so grateful that I am not a boy!!
xo
Happy Birthday Sunny Skurow.