tiny inklings

gorgeous color

2011-06-14T11:51:00.000-07:00

I can't get over how beautiful these images of agate are. If anyone knows the original source, please let me know. I'd absolutely love to buy these as large-scale prints for our entryway!

Found via.

nerd-tastic treats

2011-06-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sooo....can you guess I got an ice cream maker? And can I just say - Best. Investment. Ever! I had made a few easy sorbets with it thus far (lemon-lime-ginger; tangerine prosecco), but last night, I decided to tackle an actual ice cream recipe (custard base and all). I was a little freaked out about curdling the eggs, but it was easier than I thought. Now, I have two quarts of delicious frozen goodness taunting me from the freezer until dinner tonight.

My friends M. and D. have been hosting weekly dinner-and-movie nights. We're trying to re-watch all of the Harry Potter movies before the big finale in July (don't judge, we know. Hence the post title.). :) Anyway, each week, we've kind of decided to create a Harry Potter themed something-or-other. Last week it was Butterbeer. Everyone raved, but I admit I couldn't get past the idea of drinking butter, so I passed. This week? Honeyduke's "In Case of Dementor Attack" Chocolate Sherbet. Sooo....good. I may or may not have licked the bowl before pouring the ice cream base into the machine.

I also whipped up a quart of ...wait for it....Candied Bacon Ice Cream. As a connoisseur of the bacon doughnut (my fave is from here), I knew when I saw this recipe that I had to make it. It's fantastic! Only trouble is that I can't come up with a good Harry Potter-esque name for it. Candied Hippogriff Ice Cream just doesn't really have the best ring to it. Haha.

Either way, I'm sure my friends are going to enjoy these treats tonight. You should make them too! Here are the links to the recipes by David Lebovitz:

Candied Bacon Ice Cream

Chocolate Sherbet

Images via David Lebovitz

let's get happy

2011-04-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

My favorite local (still in print!) magazine, San Louie, is "taking on Oprah" in a quest to dig deeper into the statement that San Luis Obispo is the happiest place on Earth. In collaboration with Kickstarter.com, they are hoping to raise enough money to cover the cost of printing Issue No. 4, "The Happy Issue", which will explore the thought that "happiness is collaborating with San Luis Obispo’s sizeable population of artists, writers, and thinkers".

A small donation of just $10 will get you a copy of Issue No. 4 and a heart full of warm fuzzies knowing that you are contributing to a community-funded project and helping a small group of people discover and connect with large talent in a small town.

Interested in jumping on the San Louie bandwagon? Click here to find out more about San Louie and here to donate via Kickstarter.

today i love...

2011-04-05T10:57:00.001-07:00

could i love the current pillow collection from west elm any more? i think not. now, which ones are calling my name the loudest? decisions decisions.....

all images via west elm.

loving

2011-03-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

Hi bloggy friends. I know I have been a little (actually a lot) M.I.A. lately. I switched jobs about six weeks ago (I am an interior designer as my main job) and an still trying to get my schedule settled. Needless to say, my poor little blog has been very much neglected. I have excellent intentions for posting regularly again. I hope to begin that starting in April at the latest. So for all of you who have stuck around are reading this, thank you for hanging in there.

I thought I'd pop in today and post a few of my favorite things from around the web lately. I have a lot more inspiration on my Pinterest page if you're interested in checking that out, as well, that I tend to update pretty frequently (gotta love that Pinmarklet for its time saving abilities!).

braid tutorial/ prints/ rug/ portrait/ crib/ nursery/ bathroom/ floor/ silhouettes/ wall hangings/ swimsuit

Freebie!

2011-02-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

Hey bloggy friends! I've created a little Save-the-Date for the readers of Yellow Press Weddings today. Hop on over to check out the different variations and to download it. I think you'll like. :)

To check out my other downloads, click here.

thank you!

2011-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

I have to take a moment here to send out a HUGE thanks to San Louie Magazine for including me in their Central Coast Bloggers roundup! For the full list of all the awesome peeps that are blogging on the Central Coast, click here.

Also, for all you locals, the San Louie Issue No. 3 Launch Party is going down tomorrow night at Sally Loo's. AND there's free bean soup involved. Seriously folks, what's not to love about this? :)

i can has pEi Pod

2010-12-22T11:46:00.000-08:00

I can't get over the utter cuteness of this pet bed. I'm thinking Fritz and Indy need one of these, no?

and speaking of sparkle...

2010-12-21T11:07:00.000-08:00

You've got to check out this gift wrap inspiration over on Grey Likes Weddings today. I only wish it would have been posted sooner since all my wrapping is done and now I want to re-wrap my gifts using all sparkles! Bonus: MaeMae printable gift tags!

P.S. Grey's gift wrap inspiration last year was fab. See all the goodness here and here.

today I love...

2010-12-20T11:38:00.000-08:00

...this modern holiday photographed by joielala and styled by the gals of sitting in a tree.

see more images here, here, and here.

On my night table: Dark Places by Gillian Flynn

2010-12-13T15:31:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I finished this book about a week ago, but I still wanted to write about it because I love, love, LOVED it! Dark Places is a ~~little~~ lot darker of a story than I usually get into and I was a little hesitant at first, but the way the book is written, it just pulls you in and keeps you engaged right from the beginning. I'll let you read a little synopsis, but I highly recommend it. I'm going to the library after work to pick up her other book, Sharp Objects, and I can't wait to crack it open!

From Publisher's Weekly:

When Libby Day's mother and two older sisters were slaughtered in the family's Kansas farmhouse, it was seven-year-old Libby's testimony that sent her 15-year-old brother, Ben, to prison for life. Desperate for cash 24 years later, Libby reluctantly agrees to meet members of the Kill Club, true crime enthusiasts who bicker over famous cases. She's shocked to learn most of them believe Ben is innocent and the real killer is still on the loose. Though initially interested only in making a quick buck hocking family memorabilia, Libby is soon drawn into the club's pseudo-investigation, and begins to question what exactly she saw—or didn't see—the night of the tragedy. Flynn fluidly moves between cynical present-day Libby and the hours leading up to the murders through the eyes of her family members. When the truth emerges, it's so twisted that even the most astute readers won't have predicted it.

Giveaway!

2010-12-06T10:23:00.000-08:00

I'm doing a little giveaway over on I Art U this week! I LOVE Jenn's blog, so when she asked if I would be interested in doing a giveaway, I jumped at the chance. Her blog is one of my "top fives", in that out of the 100 or so blogs that I subscribe to in my Reader, hers is one of the first I read every day. She's also a FABULOUS photographer, so I always look forward to her weekend pics and the portrait shoots she posts. Hop on over and comment to win a Holiday Essentials Kit, gold and lovely, perfect for wrapping all those gifts this season (and say hi to Jenn while you're at it). :)

I'm also offering a little shop discount for I Art U readers...but you'll have to click over to I Art U to get the code.

Holiday 2010 Shop Trade

2010-11-30T10:44:00.000-08:00

This season I'm participating in the 2010 Holiday Shop Trade put together by Danni over at Oh, Hello Friend. Trades are super fun, a great way to do holiday gifting, and a great way to meet new people and discover new shops. If anyone is up for a trade in the next month or so, just give me a hollar over on Etsy. I'd love to see what kinds of trades we can get going! Click here to check out the full list of shops participating in holiday trades on Oh, Hello Friend.

today I love...

2010-11-22T15:55:00.000-08:00

...Milk Money Shop. Discovered via convo on Etsy. Love, love, love the yellow floral headband (are you surprised?).

today I love...

2010-11-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

...this photograph. Knitwear by Amanda Henderson captured by Chelsea Cullman.

(via sfgirlbybay)

new in the shop!

2010-11-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Finally, right? The holiday exhibition on Paper-n-Stitch forced me to get my butt in gear and design some new stuff for the holidays (plus a few extras). You can find me over there through the 15th of December. I have a little promo going (but you'll have to click through to see it. Hehe.) and I'll be participating in Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales as well. Let's have a little look-see at the new merch, shall we?

All the items above are available for purchase in my Etsy shop. Thanks for taking a peek!

ok, go

2010-11-15T11:05:00.000-08:00

Ok Go - Last Leaf from About Me on Vimeo.

I thought this was really neat, so I had to share it. This video for Ok Go was created entirely in stop motion using thousands of pieces of toast. Cool, no?

(found via Pinterest)

fill-in-the-blank friday

2010-11-12T08:34:00.000-08:00

1. The most spontaneous thing I've ever done was : Well, there may or may not have been a streaking incident. And I'm not going to tell you how old I was at the time. :)

2. The best gift I've ever received was: a month stay/study in Paris. I took myself there, but if it weren't for graduation $ from family and work bonuses, I wouldn't have been able to go.

3. A time that I was truly and genuinely surprised was: when John proposed. He had been fake proposing for about a month, so I thought he was up to his old tricks. Then he pulled out the ring and I knew.

4. I can't leave the house without: my cell phone and iPod.

5. My favorite day of the week is Friday because: I don't have to work on Fridays. By the time Saturday rolls around, I feel like it's Sunday, but I actually have another day off. A close second would be Wednesdays, which is when I take guitar lessons.

6. Something that can always make me laugh is: my dog Fritz. He twists himself into funny shapes when he's laying on his back. Cracks me up every time. That's him below.

7. My perfect day would include: Gotta say, any day at the beach is pretty much perfect. It's the little things....

(more at the little things we do)

yes, let's talk about it

2010-11-11T14:14:00.000-08:00

I realize what I'm about to say is way too early in the holiday season to be saying it, but let's let this one slide, shall we? I live in a tiny house. And while I love the idea of decorating for the holidays with a big tree trimmed with lots of ornaments, we simply don't have the space. So when I saw this lovely vignette from the J. Crew holiday gift guide, a little light bulb went on over my head. I think a gilded branch suspended over our mantle with a few ornaments will be the perfect solution....so long as it doesn't turn out looking more "Charlie Brown Christmas" than "rustic chic". Here's hoping.

inspired by: deanna staffo

2010-11-08T09:00:00.000-08:00

I am completely smitten with the work of illustrator Deanna Staffo. I found her via someone's pin on Pinterest and spent some time on her portfolio and Flickr sites, though, admittedly, I probably could have spend a good chunk of my day floating in her daydreamy world of soft illustrations. I've posted a few of my favorites, but it's worth the click to go and check out her site yourself. I especially love her 'misfits' series.

(All images via Deanna Staffo)

today I love...

2010-11-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

...these literary tees and sweatshirts from Out of Print because I heart the classics! The ones above are my fave.

(via Wit and Delight)

no post, just.....

2010-11-02T14:41:00.000-07:00

{drawing inspired by shanna murray}

october etsy faves

2010-11-01T12:07:00.000-07:00

Well, friends, this month really just snuck up on me. Can you believe it's November already? Still trying to wrap my head around it. On the upside, it means it's officially "holiday season" (in my book anyway)! I didn't want to forgo tradition, so below is a little roundup of my favorites on Etsy this month.

Goodies, left to right, from top:

Kaleidoscope felt collage necklace: Homako
Sunglow tote: Drika B
Arrow Stud earrings: Liam of York
'And the Wind Blows' print: Black Out Well
Los Angeles calendar: Sixth and Main
'Fortune Favors the Brave' print: Lilco Letterpress
Pink sugar scrubs: Dancing Mooney
Book mobile: The Shop House
'Tell Me a Story" set: The Small Object
Custom hearts: Miniature Rhino
'Bird and Boat' fat quarter fabric: Mummy Sam
Bow Bag: Soraam

fill-in-the-blank friday

2010-10-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

Time for another Fill-in-the-Blank Friday. Today's theme: Halloween! (via The Little Things We Do)

1. My Halloween plans this year will include: dressing up and going out the night before Halloween. Then on Halloween my friends and I always make their house super scary and try and scare little kids (with their parent's permission, of course). Bwahahaha!

2. My most memorable Halloween costume was: I never had one that was all that memorable, but my sister was a Cheeto one year, complete with giant orange felt costume and trick-or-treat bag made of (what else?) Cheeto bags. That costume has always topped all others in our book.

3. For Halloween this year I'm going to be: Joan Jett. Got the wig, made the shirt, and my sister mailed me a bunch of studded belts from her punk days. I'm gonna look legit.

4. I've always wanted to dress up as: Holly Golightly.

5. Halloween free association! Candy, fog machine, Jason, dry ice, cocktails, friends.

6. The worst thing about Halloween is: Only that it's on a Sunday this year. No worries, we make do. :)

7. The best thing about Halloween is: Scaring kids and trying not to get scared by my husband or friends.

Have a safe and happy Halloween everyone!

(image above via)

On my night table: Talking to Girls About Duran Duran by Rob Sheffield

2010-10-27T11:11:00.000-07:00

From Amazon.com:

Don't be fooled by the title: 'Talking to Girls About Duran Duran' may sound like a dream come true to all the women who she-bopped through the 80s, but at heart it's the Feminine Mystique that every boy-next-door has been waiting for (and will actually read). It's something like a prequel to Rob Sheffield's first, fantastic memoir, Love Is a Mix Tape, taking its cue this time from a musical decade so addictive and eclectic that, as he notes, "every night in your town, you can find a bar somewhere hosting an Awesome 80s Prom Night." This hilarious and heartfelt collection of coming-of-age vignettes is arguably a much more satisfying way to spend an evening, though, particularly if you have even an ounce of the New Wave obsession that courses through it. Sheffield riffs on the songs that saw him through the rapture and misery and bewilderment of being a guy who wanted to understand girls, gleefully skewering Duran Duran along the way (even as he professes his love for them) and paying tribute to tunes that captured some of his best moments. If you're going to revisit your youth, let Rob Sheffield be your guide. Nothing compares to him.

monday eye candy

2010-10-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, J. and I went to The Huntington Gardens in Pasadena. We could have easily spent hours in there wandering around and taking pictures. I think of all the different gardens, I loved the succulent and cactus garden the best (big surprise, right?). I took a few snaps of some of the centers of different specimens. I love how architectural they look up close like this. And I think the pictures came out not too bad for all being taken on my Blackberry.

We also stopped at Enjoy Cupcakes in Los Olivos on the way down. If you're ever in that neck of the woods, you MUST make a stop at Enjoy. I got to chat with Kevin for a few, which was great. Man, what a nice guy. And the cupcakes? I had a pomegranate-mimosa cupcake and an apple cinnamon cupcake. One word: Nom.

happy friday!

2010-10-22T09:33:00.000-07:00

J. and I are off to the Huntington Gardens today! Fun times. What's up for your weekend?

A few links:

I've been loving Mrs. Lilien's "Persuasions of an Extraordinary Mrs." series on her blog.

The fun continues! Will I see you there?

Again, if only I knew how to sew...

Thinking about making these for Christmas. So fun!

today I love...

2010-10-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

...all these little fox goodies made by Oh My Cavalier!

(via Paper Crave)

today I love...

2010-10-20T14:20:00.000-07:00

PTMK: A MOVEMENT from Ptarmak, Inc. on Vimeo.

I really loved watching this short little promo video made by Ptarmac. The fact that the animation was mostly done using watercolor paintings blew my mind. I especially loved the whales.

(See some of the process and learn more here)

a sweet collection

2010-10-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

I love this collection of paint dipped spoons. I especially love the gradient of color from left to right. I think this would look lovely mounted on canvas, framed in rustic barn wood, and hung in my kitchen. Hmmm....looks like a d.i.y. project will have to be scheduled soon!

(via Old Faithful)

inspired by: tiny animals

2010-10-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

I love these little guys. I'm thinking some variation might have to grace my Thanksgiving table this year.

image credits, clockwise from top left: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4

today I love...

2010-10-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

...this video by Brooke Fraser. I especially love the collage-style animation. That narwhal makes me smile.

Something in The Water from Brooke Fraser on Vimeo.

(via black eiffel)

fill-in-the-blank friday

2010-10-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd mix it up a little this week and join up with the group of bloggers at The Little Things We Do for Fill-in-the-Blank Friday. So here we go!

1. Blogging is: a great way for me to keep track of all the things I love. It's also been a great way to meet new people.

2. A current fashion trend I wish I was brave enough to wear is: leggings and a tunic. I can do leggings and a skirt, but the whole "butt almost hanging out" thing makes me so self-conscious. Looks cute on other girls though!

3. My greatest accomplishment in life thus far is: buying a house. Granted, I didn't do that alone, but every time we come home, I'd so proud that we are coming home to our house.

4. If I had to choose between a mountain or a beach vacation I'd choose: Mountain vacation. Since we live at the beach, it's nice to mix it up. Plus, I love the smell of being in a forest.

5. A talent I wish I had is: being able to rock on the guitar. I'm on my way though. Bought me an electric guitar and am taking lessons.

6. A talent I do have is: being crafty. Especially during the holidays.

7. This week: went by so fast!

(via Paper Pastries / photo via we heart it)

i'm just gonna own it

2010-10-14T11:50:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I had a brief conversation with a friend of mine that went something like this:

M.: "So, the other day, I saw the cutest dachshund salt and pepper shakers and I was totally going to get them for you!"

Me: "Oh geez. If you got them for us, there would totally be a snowball effect and we would forever become 'The Wiener Dog People'."

M.: "Aren't you already the 'Wiener Dog People'?"

Instead of fighting it, I'm just going to own it....and share with you a few Doxie faves (because, really, who can resist that face?).

Clockwise from top left:

Doxie print: Ed Art via Creature Comforts

Bronze doxie: High Street Market

Letterpress dog notes: Paper Ink Press

Little dachshund ring: Mooshygooshie

inspired by: warm treats

2010-10-12T15:17:00.000-07:00

Mmmm. 'Nuff said.

image credits, clockwise from top left: 1 2 3 4 5

two years?!

2010-10-11T09:15:00.000-07:00

Today is my two year wedding anniversary. On this day in 2008, I got to say YES! to spending the rest of my life with my best friend. Hands down, the best decision I have ever made. Today, I thought I'd share a few of our wedding pictures with you, shot by the awesome, amazing, and insanely talented Chloe Murdoch.

this made my day

2010-10-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

I was catching up on my blog reading this weekend ( I am sooooo behind!) and came across this little snippet (#5) from Margaret over at Paper Pastries. Considering I am a huge fan of her work (read: stalker), it was such a thrill to read this. Thanks Margaret, you totally made my day!

(image above: California pencil set via Paper Pastries. I freaking love these!)

happy friday!

2010-10-08T13:03:00.000-07:00

(some days, sleeping in late sounds just fine to me. image board by grey likes weddings.)

links for your weekend:

I would love to make this, but alas, I do not know how to sew. Perhaps my talented sis will help me one day.

I am obsessed with Dexter, so naturally, I love this.

A sweet giveaway over at You Are My Fave.

Wow. Love this shoot!

Another new online magazine that I'm loving!

My new fave coffee shop. Their Mexican mochas are the best!

SLO local? I'll be at this event next week because I love books and supporting the public library system. Perhaps I'll see you there?

color study: black and gold

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

image credits from top: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

donna wilson makes me smile

2010-10-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is, but I love little plushie animals. I have a fox from Sleepy King, an Ewok from "back in the day" (which, by the way, was a Wednesday. All right, enough with the Dane Cook references), and a few others that I've kept from my childhood bedroom. Perhaps if I had a kid, it would seem a little more appropriate to obsess over such things, but I really just can't help myself.

The plushies and housewares by Donna Wilson are no exception (and are not helping in making me want them less). I freaking love that peanut! Here, see for yourself. These little guys are sure to brighten up your day.

today I love...

2010-10-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

This living room is speaking to me today. I love the bright, white space, all the neutrals, the rustic elements (my husband would LOVE that), and the pops of green from the plants. Methinks this is a perfect inspiration image to keep on file if I ever redo the living room. Yes, yes I do.

(via Lonny Magazine)

oh man

2010-10-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

I am so loving all the looks from Ulla Johnson's Fall collection. If only I had a disposable income where I could spend and spend on cute boots and flirty dresses. But, alas, we have a backyard to redo. Priorities. A girl can dream...

(via Coco + Kelley)

happy friday!

2010-10-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

This set by Molly Wizenberg makes me want to take more pictures of my pups (like I really needed an excuse).

I can't wait to get the first issue of Anthology in the mail!

I think I'd like to drink this in a party dress and sparkly shoes.Yes, yes I would.

Going to see these guys tonight. To say I'm excited would be an understatement.

I'm so going to d.i.y. this sweater's embellishments. (via creature comforts)

I love everything about this blog. You might say it's my new "fave" (tee hee).

Want. Mine. But riddle me this: Why is it so hard to find awesome bedding for a Cal King size bed? Everyone seems to stop at Eastern King...)

Mmm...will be making these. Now I just need to round up all my goat cheese-loving friends. Miss M.?

(I'm a sucker for cute puppies. Top image via).

september etsy faves

2010-09-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

Can it possibly be the end of September already?! There's no way it can be Fall; we have been sweating out this California heat wave all week. So from the air conditioned bliss of my studio, I give you my Etsy faves for September. Enjoy!

small to large print: abby trys again
molecule rings: contagious
fox ring with diamonds: michelle chang jewelry
antler necklace: tryst by kerry
striped t-shirt: jen fashion
vintage bottles: hindsvik
box chain earrings: moth house
black garnet necklace: mcgowan mcclain

one canoe two

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

Sweet bicycle built for eight? Check. Mermaid? Check. Ultra loooooong weenie dog? Double check. I daresay this is quite possibly the cutest calendar I've seen so far this season. Love. By One Canoe Two.

(via OSBP)

fun at HITCHED

2010-09-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Ah, good times at HITCHED! We were a little...um...challenged with the remote for the Smilebooth, but we had a great time none the less. It was so fun to meet all the vendors whose blogs I ogle at every day. I admit I felt a little like a crazed groupie (Snippet and Ink! Untamed Petals! Urbanic! Succulent Love!) trotting around between booths. Oh, and spotting Josie Maran? Well, that just made my night. See you next time around, girls. I'll definitely be back for the next one.

today I love...

2010-09-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

My friend D. has the most amazing necklace made from a geode set in gold and strung on a slim chain. She was wearing it this weekend and I asked her where she got it, hoping she would say Etsy or from some local shop. To my disappointment, I found out that is was made in the 1970's by her husband's uncle. Sigh. She always finds the coolest one-of-a-kind stuff.

Now I know I've probably mentioned them before, but I rediscovered Stone and Honey while searching for an acceptable likeness of D.'s necklace. They have the most beautiful things and are surprisingly well priced. Head over to their shop and check out their beautiful and unique creations (and maybe get a few holiday gift ideas while you're there!).

happy friday!

2010-09-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

I have quite a busy weekend planned! It is the annual Harvest Festival in our little town, so that means a fish fry, a movie in the park, a parade, annnnnnnnnd wiener dog races on Saturday! It's seriously the funniest thing to watch, ever. Oh, wiener dogs, you're great for a laugh. Fritz and Indy are looking forward to the race this year (they told me so). Have a great weekend everyone.

Links for your weekend:

rue magazine is live and fabulous!

a sneak peek at my potential halloween costume. ah, but who will it be...?

love love love these boots!

so tempting!

i love this girl's outfit!

breakfast was devoured today here. their s.f. style french toast is out of this world!

(top image via)

a penpal?

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

I like the idea of sending post cards. I think I'll send more. A little inspiration:

image credits from top: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

a love story

2010-09-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

This is so sweet, I couldn't not post it. I can only hope to keep a love like this in my marriage for the rest of my life. xo.

via Snippet and Ink

cinnamon-scented breezes

2010-09-21T12:10:00.000-07:00

Well, I am back home in California after a week in Colorado and I must say that a little vacation was just what the doctor ordered. We had such a great time and the weather near Denver was gorgeous! It was a little hard to come back to the dreary California coastal weather we have been having, but it is nice to be home all the same.

I've been enjoying flipping through all the Fall magazines, and though it doesn't quite feel like Fall yet, I can't help but make a little wish that it comes sooner. I LOVE Fall. The changing color of the leaves, the crispness in the air, and the desire to stay inside and bake. Now if you know me, you know I don't bake. But Ms. Fall has wrapped me up in her cinnamon-sugar scented breeze and now I can't resist. What is happening? I'm not going to fight it.

With all that said, the Fall issue of Sweet Paul came out yesterday and it doesn't disappoint with all of its autumnal goodness. Perhaps I'll try my hand at a rustic apple tart to share with friends.

More eye candy and recipes here.

a well deserved break

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

I am headed out on vacation for a few days! So excited! J. and I haven't taken a real vacation since our honeymoon two years ago, so it is due. I'll be back posting next Monday, so try not to miss me too much while I'm gone. Tee hee. Until then, lovelies, I'll leave you with a few links from this week:

This little guy is too cute!

Dying to make this.

A fabulous save-the-date giveaway for brides-to-be.

I love this engagement shoot!

A fabulous bridal shower. So coordinated!

Loving Shana Faust's portfolio! (via Grey Likes Weddings)

Great bookshelf inspiration via The City Sage

I love this s'more bar!

Shanna Murray has desktop wallpapers? For free?! Where have I been?

See you next Monday, all!

mmmm...cake

2010-09-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, if you know me, then you know that the title of this post is a big fat lie. Don't hate. I don't know what it is, I just would rather eat pie. Or cobbler. Or doughnuts. Mmmmm....doughnuts. I have to admit that I always feel a little left out at parties and weddings when everyone else is "mmmm"-ing over their slice of cake. Kinda makes me wish I actually enjoyed it. Now, pictures of cake (especially ruffly, fancy, girlie cakes)? That I can get on board with. In fact, I'm feeling a tad bit inspired by these beauties. What about you? Are you Team Cake or Team Pie?

image credits left to right from top: 1 2 3 4 5 6

And speaking of cake, the cake paintings from Paul and Jordan Ferney's art show "Let Them Eat Cake" are available for purchase in Paul's online shop. I love these!

{inspired by} pinwheels

2010-09-07T14:51:00.000-07:00

I find pinwheels to be so fun and inspiring. They make me feel like a kid again, which is probably a huge part of their charm. Some fun finds:

images from top: 1 2 3 4 5 6

There is also a great tutorial here if you feel so inclined to make your own. Enjoy!

today I love...

2010-09-06T09:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day everyone! I wish I could say I was lounging on the beach today with the masses, but, alas, some of us must keep the workforce going. I figured I was allowed a tiny internet break this morning and I thought I'd share the work of Rachel Blakley who runs the Etsy shop Elephantine. Besides creating jewelry that I'm dying (dying!) to own, Rachel, herself, is super sweet and writes a wonderfully curated blog by the same name. I suggest you check out both. You won't be disappointed. Happy Monday to you all!

Elephantine: blog | shop

a happy thursday

2010-09-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

I have been reading Gretchen Rubin's The Happiness Project and it has been speaking to me in ways that a book hasn't really done in quite some time. I like the idea of finding little ways to make my life happier (not that I don't already have a happy life, don't get me wrong), and seeing the bright side in little things throughout the day. I think it's nice to take the time and reflect on things that make you happy. The other day I went down to the beach after work to unwind. I sat on the beach staring out at the ocean, the clear blue water, the seagulls and the otters. The beach is one of those places that I forget about (you'd think it would be hard to do since it's right there) and it was nice to just sit and be surrounded by such a vast beauty.

Getting to the main point of this post, one of the other things I've found that makes me smile are Gemma Correll's illustrations. I could spend hours perusing her Daily Diaries and her Flickr photostream. If you haven't met Gemma, I suggest you go. Now. I promise, her work will brighten your day, too.

Below, a few of my faves:

See more of Gemma: web | blog | flickr | etsy

today I love...

2010-09-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

This fête sends me over the moon! A little glam, a little casual, a lot of fun. I've always had this idea of throwing a 1920's-themed New Year's Eve party, but never had the house to do it in. I love the idea of guests coming in black tie attire and sipping champagne from low champagne glasses, great conversation, dancing, and a few memorable shenanigans (of course!). I'm filing these images away to borrow from should I ever get the chance to host my dream party. Perhaps next year....

All images via Martha Stewart. See more images here!

(via Coco + Kelley)

august etsy faves

2010-08-31T12:00:00.000-07:00

Before the month is up (is is really September already?!), I wanted to share a few of my favorite Etsy finds from this month. Let's get started, shall we?

from top left:

golden line necklace: edor
sleepy fox print: ginger lilly tea
fishing floats: glass float junkie
gift flags: in haus press
bow canvas tote: kinies
don't see me print: the light fantastic
paper cut card: paper bazaar
carousel necklace: jesophi

happy friday!

2010-08-27T11:50:00.000-07:00

i hope you all have grand plans for the weekend. as for me, i'm taking my little pup fritz to the vet today for his annual shots and trying to get a slew of orders out. i'm also going to be running a 10k tomorrow morning on the beach. i think i'm ready, but wish me luck, anyway. :)

a few links for your weekend:

i love this easy idea for an outdoor shower.

looking forward to the debut of this new online magazine.

i loved this post. almost made me wish i was in the city and it was raining. almost.

mmmmm...popovers. yes please. until i get a popover pan, i will be eating the frozen ones from trader joes. still delish, but i imagine home made would be the best.

i bought some tangerine marmalade yesterday that blew my mind.

loving these simple key chains. (via creature comforts).

during our upcoming trip, i am most looking forward to seeing this. ok, and this.

have a great weekend everyone!

(top image via sweet paul)

we have a winner!

2010-08-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

congrats ashley! random.org picked you! i'll be contacting you shortly for your mailing address.

a big thanks to everyone who entered and showed support for the blog and shop. another giveaway will be coming soon, so there will be more chances to win some goodies.

botanical tags printable freebie

2010-08-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

i love wrapping presents. i think a beautifully wrapped gift or package makes giving or receiving a gift like giving or getting two gifts in one. the best part is watching someone open that gift, trying not to tear the paper or cut the ribbon, because you know they're going reuse your lovely packaging material on a gift to another. scratch that, the best best thing? sneak attacking someone with a lovely gift out of the blue. that's the best.

i made these printable gift tags for all of you to download and use to make your packages to others beautiful, as well. enjoy!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BOTANICAL GIFT TAGS

click here for more free printables and d.i.y. projects

pretty shoe d.i.y.

2010-08-25T16:14:00.000-07:00

jen over at green wedding shoes posted this great d.i.y. tutorial last week to dress up a pair of plain jane heels. perfect for the bride (or, lets face it, anyone) on a budget. i am all over it! love! check out more details and step-by-step instructions here.

image via green wedding shoes

I love this...

2010-08-24T13:29:00.000-07:00

Photograph by Alvaro Puentes.

color study: yellow

2010-08-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

no color makes me happier than the color yellow. today, i share with you a little happy yellow inspiration from around the web. enjoy, friends!

image credits (left to right from top): 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Inspired by: Olivia Bolles

2010-08-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

It's Monday. The weather is gorgeous and sunny. I am inside "working" (shouldn't work be illegal on days like today?) and listening to a pre-release of Katy Perry's Teenage Dream. Originally I was going to post a little photo set that was inspired by long, summer days, but I was cruising around Flickr and came across Olivia Bee. I think today was the perfect day to stumble across this girl's work (she's only 16!), because while listening to Teenage Dream and looking through Olivia's photo stream, I can almost imagine I'm a teenager again. Almost. If only I could get outside.

happy friday!

2010-08-20T17:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday all! Today, I've been making some paper garlands for a friend's nautical-themed baby shower along with straw flags, thank you notes, and a rad banner. Should be super cute when it's all said and done. Other than that, I've been training for a 10K next weekend, so I think I'll head out now and go for a run on the beach.

How about you? What's up for your weekend?

Also, don't forget to enter to win a rockin' package of goodies from my shop!

Annnnd....in case you need any last minute thank you notes, some freebies just for you.

Thank you notes printable freebie!

2010-08-19T12:48:00.000-07:00

I made these little flat thank you notes to send out with orders and I thought they were so cute that I would share them with you. Perfect for a note on the fly or to mail off to a friend just because. Scroll down for the link to download. Pair with your favorite envelopes and enjoy!

DOWNLOAD THE .ZIP FILE OF THX NOTES HERE.

Find more of my free downloads here.

200th post and a GIVEAWAY!

2010-08-18T10:30:00.001-07:00

Well, hello there lovelies! Today marks the day of my 200th post here on the blog! And to think, I almost let it slip by! Well, no way! To celebrate, I'm giving YOU a gift. One lucky reader will win a big 'ole gift pack of items from my shop as a little thank you for your support of my blog and shop.

the lowdown:

one reader will win a gift pack of the following:

* (1) 6-pack of "banner" thank you cards

* (1) 6-pack of "happy" note cards

* (1) 6-pack of "love note" cards

* (1) package of vintage map cupcake flags

* (1) package of mini bunting

* (1) "rainbow drops" notepad

* (1) "deer" notepad

* (1) $15 gift certificate to the shop

...and a few other top secret goodies. :)

3 shots at the goods!

firstly, I ask that you are a follower of the blog to be eligible to win this prize pack.

if you aren't yet, what are you waiting for? :)

{ comment to win}

leave a comment below that answers the following:

"if you were granted a super power, what would it be and would you use it for good or evil?"

{+1 extra entry}

blog, tweet, or facebook about this giveaway.

tell your friends! shout it from the rooftops! then come back here and comment with the link.

if you tweet, please tag your tweet with @inklingpaper so I can track it.

{+1 more extra entry}

follow me on twitter or "like" inkling paper on facebook.

come back and comment letting me know which site you are a follower of for an extra entry.

(please only comment once for which site you are a follower of).

thank you so much for all of your support. i wouldn't be lucky enough to be doing this if it weren't for all of you that have supported me over the past two years. from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!

the fine print:

contest is open to residents of the united states and canada.

all entrants must leave a valid e-mail address so i can contact you if you win (no spam, cross my heart).

contest ends thursday, august 26th at 8am pst. please check back to see if you've won.

bonne chance!

On my night table: The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

2010-08-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

From Amazon.com:

Gretchen Rubin had an epiphany one rainy afternoon in the unlikeliest of places: a city bus. "The days are long, but the years are short," she realized. "Time is passing, and I'm not focusing enough on the things that really matter." In that moment, she decided to dedicate a year to her happiness project.
In this lively and compelling account of that year, Rubin carves out her place alongside the authors of bestselling memoirs such as Julie and Julia, The Year of Living Biblically, and Eat, Pray, Love. With humor and insight, she chronicles her adventures during the twelve months she spent test-driving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific research, and lessons from popular culture about how to be happier.

Her conclusions are sometimes surprising—she finds that money can buy happiness, when spent wisely; that novelty and challenge are powerful sources of happiness; that "treating" yourself can make you feel worse; that venting bad feelings doesn't relieve them; that the very smallest of changes can make the biggest difference—and they range from the practical to the profound.

Written with charm and wit, The Happiness Project is illuminating yet entertaining, thought-provoking yet compulsively readable. Gretchen Rubin's passion for her subject jumps off the page, and reading just a few chapters of this book will inspire you to start your own happiness project.

A great book club read! Order a copy here or from your local public library.

Color Study: White

2010-08-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

I just love seeing simple, clean, white palettes. I'd love to be one of those people who could have an all white house, gauzy curtains blowing gently in the breeze. But unless I want to get rid of my precious puppies (mais non!), I'll have to be content with gazing at these pretties. I hope they inspire your Monday, as well.

From top: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Oh yum.

2010-08-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

Ginger cakes with white peaches and blackberry coulis spotted on Sprouted Kitchen this morning. I think these would also be so lovely for a wedding or bridal shower dessert. A little unconventional, a lot of YUM! I know what I'll be whipping up this weekend!

Images via Sprouted Kitchen.

Today I love...

2010-08-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

Lovely bridal (or everyday!) accessories made to order by Amanda of Untamed Petals. Love!

Simply gorgeous

2010-08-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

This fête literally took my breath away. Simple and chic, just the way I like 'em.

Check out the whole shebang over on Style Me Pretty today.

Geeking Out for Back-To-School

2010-08-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

I love school. And I'm not talking about the awful, soul-crushing abyss that was high school, no. I'm talking about college. Glorious college. If I could be a professional student, I would do it in a heart beat. To this day, my heart skips a little beat when I see all the bins upon bins of school supplies at Target. Pencils and binders and notebooks, oh my! In honor of the school year beginning again, I thought I'd put together a little round up of a few of my favorite things for this year's back-to-school season.

A place for your laptop to snuggle.

A place to jot notes (and to scribble "your name + your crush's name = ♥ 4-EVA").

For chic note-passing.

In case you forget (it's not cheating.....).

A home for your books.

Glasses are sexy!

Accessories for all those late nights in the stacks.

For erasing mistakes (although the ones made in life might not come up so easily).

This makes me smile

2010-08-05T10:38:00.000-07:00

Coeur de Pirate || Comme des enfants from Dare To Care Records on Vimeo.

Font Crush: Memorium

2010-08-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Image credits: 1 2 3

New in the shop!

2010-08-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have a few new cards in the shop today (I know, finally!). I've been playing around with more color as of late (as probably evident by my new blog/shop/website headers) and have really been enjoying it! Cards can be found in the shop in singles and in packs of 6. Thanks for checking them out, all!

Twig and Thistle

2010-08-02T11:00:00.000-07:00

I saw these invitations that Kathleen posted earlier this morning and couldn't resist sharing them with you today. As a fellow carnivore and someone with a "meat tooth", I am loving all the subtle butchery details. For more pictures of the suite and info on materials and printing process, visit Twig and Thistle.

All photos via Twig and Thistle.

happy friday!

2010-07-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

well, friends, i'm off to san francisco for a weekend of craftiness and girly fun. i hope you have a great one, too! what are your plans?

links for your weekend:

lovely paper cuts (via poppytalk)

my current dvd obsession

these invitations are gorgeous

i don't think i've ever seen a wedding here that wasn't breathtaking. like this one.

this is a fabulous giveaway if i ever saw one.

woah. (via black*eiffel)

love these custom portraits!

can these please be turned into a book? and quick?!

bacon bon bons AND beignets? sold.

maple glazed bacon-apple doughnut? double sold.

how can i NOT go to the jcrew outlet on the way to s.f.?

lol.

love at first glyph.

must. see.

have always wanted to stay here. saturday is the day. the beefeaters make me smile.

color study: red and turquoise

2010-07-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

images from top: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

On my night table: The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami

2010-07-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

From Amazon.com:

Bad things come in threes for Toru Okada. He loses his job, his cat disappears, and then his wife fails to return from work. His search for his wife (and his cat) introduces him to a bizarre collection of characters, including two psychic sisters, a possibly unbalanced teenager, an old soldier who witnessed the massacres on the Chinese mainland at the beginning of the Second World War, and a very shady politician.

Haruki Murakami is a master of subtly disturbing prose. Mundane events throb with menace, while the bizarre is accepted without comment. Meaning always seems to be just out of reach, for the reader as well as for the characters, yet one is drawn inexorably into a mystery that may have no solution. The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle is an extended meditation on themes that appear throughout Murakami's earlier work. The tropes of popular culture, movies, music, detective stories, combine to create a work that explores both the surface and the hidden depths of Japanese society at the end of the 20th century.

Read along with me! Pick up a copy here, at your local bookstore, or at your local public library.

renegade s.f.

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

Renegade San Francisco is this weekend and I'm so excited be be able to attend. Gonna be doing some stealth recon as I'd like to exhibit next year. Dragging my friend D. along for some shopping, eating, and serious urban shenanigans. Below: a sampling of just a few of the artists whose booths I'm looking forward to visiting. Are YOU going to Renegade this year?

from top:

the black apple
the mincing mockingbird
sleepy king
miki and nora
honeylux
sycamore street press
sara paloma pottery

I love this...

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

...and have somehow convinced J. to build me a swing like this in the oak tree in our backyard. I can't wait!

(via Once Wed)

July Etsy Faves

2010-07-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

top to bottom, left to right:

feather key holder: new duds
epershand necklace: isette
girl in the yellow suit: kiki and polly
return address stamp: primele
vintage thermos collection: gallivanting girls
summer: nan lawson
matilda headband: wendy and peter
hail to the chief print: one canoe two

color study: pink and gold

2010-07-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

images from top:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

My secret garden

2010-07-21T17:13:00.000-07:00

I took a little stroll around our yard yesterday afternoon and these are some of the things I saw:

Today I love...

2010-07-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

New Orleans letterpress wedding invitations designed by Blackbird Letterpress with calligraphy by Betsy Dunlap. So, so lovely. Makes me want to get married all over again just to be able to have invitations like these. (via OSBP)

A little sunshine for your Monday

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

Loving these yellow chairs at the Summertime and the Living Is Easy event in San Diego this weekend. Styling by Sitting In A Tree. Photo by Oh Joy! Thinking I might need some for the backyard (to continue my obsession with the color yellow).

A coastal kind of weekend

2010-07-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

J. and I spent Saturday up in Big Sur. It was such a beautiful day. We brought the dogs and had a great time! Below are a few of the things we saw.

Wow. Just, wow.

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

My heart stopped for a second when I saw this image. The contrast of the white interior of this Mexican patisserie with the bright colors of the macaroons is so breathtaking. It's this kind of quiet, elegant simplicity that (quite literally) takes my breath away.

(design by anagrama. via lushlee)

Pin It Forward!

2010-07-01T13:28:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to share with you what home means to me.

Home means:

Leisurely days in the backyard.

Home means:

Afternoons spent reading books checked out from the library. I love the smell.

Home means:

Growing my own fruit and veggies, raising chickens, and making treats from the bounty.

Home means:

Spending time with the "Weinercats". (Weinercats? Long story....).

Home means:

Going on adventures with friendsHome means:

Having someone great to share it with.

To see more of what home means to me, visit my pin board on Pinterest. Be sure to check out Oak Owl tomorrow to see what home means to her. A big thanks to Victoria of sfgirlbybay for putting this pin-it-forward event on!

Sisters

2010-06-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

This is my sister and me. We have fun together. Like jumping off walls and eating lots of carbs for breakfast (and lunch....and dinner). It's good to have a sister.

Today I love...

2010-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Aesop's Fables prints by Push Me Pull You Design.

Found via prudentbaby

Stationery vs. Stationary

2010-06-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Ahahaha! I just had to laugh when I saw this. Not only do I see people make this mistake (All. The. Time.), but it's also one of my biggest pet peeves when people confuse the two. Might just have to pick myself up a tote (or two). Adorbs.

Sapling Press via Oh So Beautiful Paper

happy friday!

2010-06-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

image: courtneymay

As you all are reading this, I am most likely lounging poolside in Las Vegas and sipping on some kind of frosty beverage. Not bad for a June Friday, eh?

Links for your weekend:

The most gorgeous trinket box I have ever seen.

Yum.

SO clever! (via Oh Joy twitter)

A summer fiction reading list.

Are you on Pinterest yet? Seriously addicting.

Anyone up for a shop trade?

What's up for your weekend peeps? Anything fun?

On my night table: My Fair Lazy by Jen Lancaster

2010-06-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

I needed a little break from the Mystery genre that I have currently been absorbed in, so I picked up a copy of the newest Jen Lancaster book. Like her other books, it had me laughing from the get-go. If you've never read her books, you don't necessarily need to start with her oldest. My favorite is Pretty in Plaid (the description of her trying to zip her skinny jeans in the 80's with a rat-tail comb had me rolling on the floor laughing!), but they are all equally witty and snarky.

From Amazon.com:

Readers have followed Jen Lancaster through job loss, sucky city living, weight loss attempts, and 1980s nostalgia. Now Jen chronicles her efforts to achieve cultural enlightenment, with some hilarious missteps and genuine moments of inspiration along the way. And she does so by any means necessary: reading canonical literature, viewing classic films, attending the opera, researching artisan cheeses, and even enrolling in etiquette classes to improve her social graces.

In Jen's corner is a crack team of experts, including Page Six socialites, gourmet chefs, an opera aficionado, and a master sommelier. She may discover that well-regarded, high-priced stinky cheese tastes exactly as bad as it smells, and that her love for Kraft American Singles is forever. But one thing's for certain: Eliza Doolittle's got nothing on Jen Lancaster-and failure is an option.

Available here.
You can also follow her tweets here. Hi. Larious.

Blog Crush

2010-06-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

I can't understand a word of this blog, but great style clearly crosses the language barrier. Style by Kling.

Summer 2010 Shop Trade

2010-06-15T06:15:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to announce that I'm participating in the Oh, Hello Friend 2010 Summer Shop Trade. All the details as well as a list of 75+ (!) other participating shops can be found here. If anyone is up for trading some goods this summer, please do send me a hello or contact me through my Etsy shop.

Today I love...

2010-06-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

The Ruche Summer 2010 Look Book. Makes me want to take a quick jaunt to the lake with a picnic lunch and a floaty raft. Likey.

Check it out here.

Photobooth Fun

2010-06-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

J. and I went to a wedding over the weekend and they had a great photo booth! We had too much fun taking pictures. It reminded us of when we were first dating and took some pictures at the Mid State Fair (back in '01 and '02). Putting my embarrassment aside over how goofy we look in our younger days, I present to you our photo booth pics. Hopefully this won't come back to haunt me later. :)

2001-2002

2010