Bungalow in Bloom

Okay, okay...

2008-02-15T10:14:00.003-05:00

I know, I've been bad. But it's hard to let myself post when I'm procrastinating on my honors thesis so much!!! I'll have a bunch more recipes on here soon, and some more bungalow pictures.

So, happy belated Valentine's day! Here are the tulips Dan got me and the flowers I got him:

Garlic Tofu and Japanese Eggplant

2008-02-10T18:17:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
-1 T canola oil
-1 pound extra-firm tofu, drained cut into 1-1.5" long strips* (see note)
-3 Japanese eggplants, cut into 2" long strips
-1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
-4 large cloves of garlic, peeled and pressed
-2-3 T Soy Vay Veri Veri Teriyaki** (see note)
-1 T water
-1 bunch fresh basil, chopped

Heat the canola oil in a large non-stick skillet. Add the tofu and cook on one side until it is golden. Carefully flip over each piece individually and cook on other side for a few minutes until golden. When you're confident that the tofu won't crumble, add the garlic and onion and sauté until the onion is glassy. Add the teriyaki sauce and sauté for one minute. Add the eggplant strips and water and stir well. Sauté until the eggplant is thoroughly cooked (you should be able to bite through the peel). Add the basil, stir, and leave on low heat for 3-5 minutes. Serve with Jasmine rice.

*I used Trader Joe's extra-firm tofu and found it to be much firmer and tougher than other "extra-firm" versions I've used in the past, such as Nasoya.
**Other teriyaki sauces just don't measure up! This really is the only sauce you need: it has tons of sesame seeds, garlic, and ginger.

L'Occitane en Provence

2008-02-01T23:30:00.001-05:00

"Every time you spend money, you're casting a vote for the kind of world you want." Anna Lappe

I went into L'Occitane for the first time a few weeks ago with my mom. They were having a huge 30%-50% off sale, and we spent quite a while in there. I bought orange soaps...

beautifully intricate green tea soaps...

exfoliating almond soaps...

a beautiful lip gloss trio...

and my mom got me a French market basket that I use at the grocery store...

After spending about an hour in the store, I noticed that I didn't get a terrible headache from all the fragrances like I do in Bath and Body Works, Sephora, or Yankee Candle. I immediately understood that it must be because they use very natural ingredients, and decided to do a little research at home.

The company was started by Olivier Baussan in 1976. From the beginning, they have chosen not to test on animals (an issue close to my heart)--and why would they need to? According to the website, they...

- use plant ingredients, organic whenever possible.
-control both their quality and origin by buying from local suppliers who use sustainable harvesting methods wherever possible.
- use no animal products (except for beehive products: honey, royal jelly, and propolis).
-prefer to use plant oils, as opposed to mineral oils, in their face care formulas.
-limit the use of silicones, chemical sunscreens, and paraben preservatives (which have been shown to cause cancer).

All their ingredients from A-Z are listed on their website; there is truly nothing to hide from their consumers. You can learn more about the benefits and origins of many of their ingredients in their true stories. My favorite is the story about shea butter, and there is even an in-depth video with the women in Africa they buy their shea butter from, who keep all the money they earn from shea butter production for themselves, which is why it is called l'or des femmes, or "women's gold."

L'Occitane has even taken into account the effect of packaging materials, which no other major company that I know of has recognized: "Both our products and the materials used in our stores are designed to respect the environment. We limit the use of packing material and the cardboard, paper and wood that we use comes from sustainably managed forests. Our production factory also sorts and recycles its waste and limits its energy consumption."

L'Occitane also uses braille labeling on most of their products, with the philosophy that all of their customers should be able to make informed choices. I am so happy to have found a company I can feel good about giving my money to, and whose products I can feel good about putting on my body.

All images from L'Occitane.

Japanese bento boxes

2008-02-01T23:06:00.001-05:00

My housemate, Alex, got the cutest thing I've ever seen in the mail today...

She also got her boyfriend, Timothy, a "men's" bento box:

They come with different compartments for rice and other food, as well as chopsticks. Naturally, I investigated the matter further on Ebay, where she bought hers. I don't need one right now, but I'm secretly hoping I'll need one in grad school. Unfortunately, they're rather expensive and small. I doubt most of them would hold enough food to fill me!

Seriously, is this not the cutest lunch box you've ever seen? It's also a lot bigger than the ones that follow...

"Yume Usagi"

"Akae"

Design for Mankind's E-zine!!!

2008-01-31T17:54:00.000-05:00

Erin over at Design for Mankind finally revealed her big project today: a monthly 20-page E-zine full of fabulous photos and inspiration. You should go over and check it out! It's the best thing that's happened to me all week. (Yes, my week was that uneventful. I have been catching up on a lot of schoolwork.)

Dried roses

2008-01-25T21:16:00.000-05:00

I scattered some roses I dried from my grandmother's funeral along with some dried rose petals from a bouquet my mother bought me a couple of weeks ago along the top of my bookcase next to some tea lights I got at Target:

There have been a few other small changes and new objects here at the bungalow that I will show you tomorrow when I can take pictures in natural light!

Ollie's growing up!

2008-01-25T20:53:00.000-05:00

I'm alive, I swear. Thank you so much for all of your encouragement the last few weeks; it meant a lot to me. Things are almost back to normal around here now! To get back into the swing of things here at Bungalow in Bloom, I think I'll show you all what my cat, Ollie, has been up to lately...

First, he spooned with my squirrel stuffed animal:

Then he stared down my new red panda stuffed animal that Dan got me:

Next, Ollie encountered snow for the first time! He's approximately three years old, you see, and he's lived in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, his whole life, where it hadn't really snowed since 2004. Unfortunately, he shivered the whole time (as did I, in my bathrobe!) and was happy to go back inside the bungalow:

Finally, he enjoyed hanging out with all his human friends that he missed over the holidays:

Now he's back to normal life at the bungalow, quietly observing all the madness that we crazy humans enjoy so much:

Rant: Zebra rugs

2008-01-09T20:28:00.000-05:00

Today was the first day of classes and I should be doing homework, but I can't because my student loan refund check hasn't come in (even though UNC sent an email saying it would be deposited today...), which means I have no money to buy my books. So I have time to post something tonight.

I hate zebra rugs. They remind me of those sorority girls who wear frumpy gym clothes and North Face jackets while they carry stupid Louis Vuitton purses, as if they think their "classic" purse makes the rest of their outfit okay. Putting a zebra rug in your room does not make the rest of the room okay.

I associate animal prints with strippers. (Especially leopard print, but zebra print isn't much better.) So when I see a zebra print rug and, say, a Kartell ghost chair or some lucite/acrylic side table in the same room, it conjures up the image of a tacky-ass stripper with clear high heels and a zebra print G-string:

Image from Ron Marvin.

I also hate the idea of someone putting it in their room to make it more "exotic." Please. Killing an animal to fulfill your patronizing orientalist fantasy is hardly classy. And I don't care if it's a fake zebra rug, because then it's probably on a cow hide, and as a vegan I don't support that either.

Obviously, the huge zebra rug trend that's going on right now doesn't really do it for me. If you want to bring something "exotic" into your home, look to Morocco for inspiration (now that's drool-worthy, orientalism aside). If you want to bring "nature" into your home, get a damn table from ABC Carpet and Home made from salvaged wood from trees that fell naturally (also extremely desirable).

Here are some rooms that would be fabulous if only the zebra rug were gone:

Robyn Karp

Yep, even Jonathan Adler is guilty.

And you thought Domino could do no wrong.

Happy little bungalow

2008-01-07T15:22:00.000-05:00

My glass candy collection. I started this when I was 8 or 9 after a trip to visit my relatives in New Orleans. My aunt had just been diagnosed with brain tumors, and she had a bowl of glass candies she bought in Europe on her coffee table. I became obsessed with them, and when we left, she gave me the pink, green, and red striped one. The glass hedgehog is just random; it's a cheap knockoff version I got in Prague of an authentic crystal one my mom has.

The mantle. Aren't you jealous of how ridiculous and random it is? When they came back out with My Little Ponies, I had to get one; the mirror is Shabby Chic for Target, which I bought several years ago.

The hedgehog. My flatmate in Germany, Arina, gave me this for Christmas. She got it from the Freiburger Weihnachtsmarkt, which we went to practically every evening together.

The motorcycle model. So random. It was already in the house when we moved in. I put it on the mantle as an ode to the bungalow's inherent manliness (real wood paneling in the living room and kitchen), despite the landlord's policy of only allowing girls to rent the house.

Le Petit Prince bottle. This handpainted--surely by a former tenant--wine bottle was also found in the bungalow.

The wine bottle shelf. The last tenants left some attractive wine bottles on the shelf over the kitchen sink window. It brings out the lush in me.

My pencil cup. My little brother sculpted and glazed this in a pottery class he took about ten years ago, and I've used it to hold my pens, pencils, and pinwheels ever since.

My honeypot. I know I'm vegan, but maybe I'm more of a sweegan, since I drink honey in my tea constantly. I got this at some kitchen outlet store in southern Georgia about a year ago.

My giant window-style picture frame. I saw this in a JC Penney's about a year and a half ago with my mom and remarked at how much I would like to have it; she actually bought it for me and gave it to me as a surprise a couple of weeks later. I have meant to put pictures in it for so long, but I've become somewhat attached to the babies and old people that came with it, especially the grandma on the motorcycle:

Finally, the vintage Life magazine cover staircase:

Alex's room is in the basement, more private from the rest of the house. Leading down to it is this staircase, which only adds to the bungalow's appeal to college girls.

2008

2008-01-05T18:20:00.000-05:00

After a sad week in Georgia, I'm back home at the bungalow. While I was gone, all the leaves outside magically disappeared, but unfortunately, not all of my magazines have arrived that should have. I changed my subscription address several weeks ago, and I'm worried that they aren't sending me the Jan/Feb issues.

I'm going to spend the next couple of days before classes start decompressing and maybe, just maybe, finishing some things around the house that I've been putting off for far too long. Between the stress of grad school applications and my grandmother's death, I really need a break even though I finally have internet access again and am able to blog. Ironically, the longer I'm away, the less motivation I have to blog anymore. Catching up on all the other blogs I read makes me feel quite inadequate both in the quantity and quality of my posts. I'm not sure what 2008 will bring for this blog. Hopefully it's just the grad school- and death-related stress that's getting me down; it could blow over and I'll find more things to say and post. But right now, I feel like there's always something preventing me from blogging about what I want to blog about. For example, Dan and I got a few art prints to frame, and half of them are being framed right now. I wanted to take pictures of them, but we had to leave to go to Georgia before they were ready, so framed or not, they're all in New Jersey.

The point of this blog was to post about the house I live in now, the bungalow, the prototype with hand-me-down couches before Dan and I move in together when I graduate. Yet it seems that all I have to blog about is things I don't have, just admire; things I think someone should have. I'm only 21, a college student. With my age, schedule, and budget taken into consideration, I probably shouldn't be expected to have a perfectly executed house to blog about. However, I have many things which I love and make everyday life happier for me. I think over the next few days, I'll blog about some of my favorite possessions which make the bungalow my home.

So much for posting...

2007-12-30T20:53:00.000-05:00

My grandmother is about to pass away, so I'm going to be in southern Georgia for about a week. Have a happy new year...tomorrow is her birthday.

Chinchillas and red pandas

2007-12-28T15:18:00.000-05:00

On Christmas Day, Dan and I stopped in FAO Schwarz in New York City. Bad idea--totally crowded. But we did come out of it with an inexpensive ($14) yet high quality squirrel stuffed animal made by Hansa:

Let me preface the rest of this story by saying that one of my and Dan's hobbies is looking at pictures of really cute animals together online. Cats, dogs, squirrels, hedgehogs, raccoons, bunnies, dolphins, parrots, ducklings, llamas, more wild animals--we like them all. We tend to do this for hours at a time every few weeks, and buying the squirrel stuffed animal inspired another round of it.

Two animals I'm absolutely obsessed with are chinchillas and red pandas...

I was literally pawing at the screen, whining and squealing about how much I wish I could have a chinchilla except Ollie would eat it. After seeing this picture, I decided to settle for a chinchilla stuffed animal to go with the squirrel. Unfortunately, realistic ones are nearly impossible to find. As are red panda stuffed animals. I am upset. But here are some more cute pictures of chinchillas and red pandas to appease me (and possibly you):

All images from Wikipedia.

Normal Room

2007-12-28T12:55:00.000-05:00

I read about Normal Room a long time ago, and meant to go searching through the galleries from the beginning, but didn't until yesterday. There's so much inspiration! Here are a few of my favorite photos:

From Chameleon in Massachusetts:

From Peanutbutter in Finland, who has a renovation blog. I love the Designer's Guild fabrics!

From greenshoot in the UK:

From Barnbaby in the UK:

From Julia in Finland:

From hb92646@earthlink.net in California:

Gobo

2007-12-24T15:58:00.000-05:00

Dan made reservations for us to eat Christmas dinner at our favorite vegan restaurant in New York, Gobo. According to their menu, "Rooted in Zen compassion, Gobo is founded on the belief that delicious food & beverages using wholesome, non-meat ingredients will nourish both your body & mind."

Vietnamese Spring Rolls with Spicy Honey Dip

Pine Nut Vegetable Medley with Lettuce Wraps

Iron Skillet Roasted Seasonal Vegetables

The interior design of the restaurant corresponds completely to the vibe and the food--even the bathrooms are gorgeous. It was designed by tonychi & associates, who design restaurants, upscale boutique hotel concepts, entertainment-themed retail stores, business clubs, and health clubs all over the world. Its founder and president Tony Chi "is a modernist with a passionate and instinctual approach to design. Chi succeeds in linking architecture, interior design, graphics, and furnishings in achieving places that are theaters for the performance of light, color, texture, and symbol. Chi delivers sensory appeal and entertainment every time," according to his website. Chi's concept in designing Gobo was a "modern country kitchen."

All images from Gobo.

Though Gobo has another location in the upper east side, I prefer the west village location:
401 Avenue of the Americas,
New York, NY 10014
(between Waverly Pl. & 8th St.)
reservations/guest services: 212.255.3902
delivery/take out orders: 212.255.3242

Future Bungalow

2007-12-23T19:04:00.000-05:00

Dan and I have been acquiring various items for our future bungalow... by which I mean apartment, since there won't be any bungalows in Philadelphia, central New Jersey (Princeton), or New York City, which is where we'll be living. And even if there were any, we wouldn't be able to afford them. So from now on, when I say "future bungalow," I mean apartment.

Bee House teapots

A red and a white tray for serving tea and breakfast on

Alternative Motivational Posters

And a Rachel Ashwell Simply Shabby Chic table lamp from Target, which is not on the website. Believe it or not, Dan pointed it out--I wanted to, but I didn't because I thought he wouldn't like it!

Freiburg zu Weihnachten

2007-12-23T16:16:00.000-05:00

I'm finally ready to return to blogland, but it seems everyone else is taking some time off for the holidays! Here are some great images I found on Flickr of my city in Germany, Freiburg, at Christmastime.

"Freiburg zur Zeit des Weihnachtsmarktes (Christmas Fair)" by pergi28

"Weihnachtsmarkt in Freiburg" by julienp

"Freiburg Weihnachtsmarkt by day" by deejay25

Different stalls in the Weihnachtsmarkt:

"Weihnachtsmarkt 1" by Atsu

"Weihnachtsmarkt 2" by Atsu

"Weihnachtsmarkt 3" by Atsu

"A stall" by deejay25

Non-Weihnachtsmarkt photos:

"Weihnachten 2006" by Marcel XC

"Freiburg, Bertholdsbrunnen" by Buzz.bg

"Freiburger Augustinerplatz" by Fußgänger

Okay, okay...

2007-12-19T11:24:00.000-05:00

I'll be done with my writing sample in the next couple of days, I promise. And then I'll try to make up for lost time with posting. In the meantime, here are the two gingerbread houses I made last Christmas...

Exam Week & Grad School

2007-12-10T10:10:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts! It's exam week, which actually isn't too stressful, but my grad school applications are due soon as well, and that is stressful. So I've been doing what I do every winter (even though it's not even cold yet)... drink a lot of herbal tea with honey.

Charmed and Dangerous

2007-12-04T16:10:00.000-05:00

I never knew it until today, but mom-to-be Ariana of Becoming Home makes jewelry that she sells at Charmed and Dangerous. Her necklaces are so beautiful and unique, and it's always better to buy handmade, especially around the holidays!

Force of Nature, $35

Fall Guy, $48

Photo Locket, $40

King's Ransom, $48

Sand Dollar, $25

Queen Bee, $18

Henry Wadsworth Longfeather, $48

2007 Gift Guide: Part Seven

2007-12-02T18:55:00.000-05:00

Twig bangle bracelet from Dolce Vita, $90
I'm not starting to get too predictable, am I?

Glass fiber baskets from Uncommon Goods, $90
Somehow these glass baskets resemble fabric--cool. The colors are really attractive.

Pen Pen pencil holder by John Brauer from Unica Home, $21
For the person with a quirky sense of humor who will appreciate the irony that something that exists to keep clutter away looks like clutter itself.

Metrokane Rabbit professional wine tool kit from Sur La Table, $69.96
A very appropriate gift for the lush person you know who will already be drinking wine as s/he opens gifts.

Carrot-Coconut Soup with Mango

2007-12-02T18:42:00.000-05:00

3 large carrots, peeled and julienned
1 inch long piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
1/2 bunch green onions, cut into rings
1 tsp curry paste
2 Tbsp oil
1 L vegetable broth
2 red peppers, cut in long, thin strips
1 can coconut milk
Juice of 1/2 lime
1 mango, peeled and chopped
1 Tbsp each fresh chopped chives and parsley

Heat the curry paste and vegetables in oil. Cook for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and cook for 15 minutes. Take out 1/3 of the vegetables, and puree the rest with a hand blender. Put the vegetables back in and add the coconut milk, lime juice, and mango. Serve strewn with the chives and parsley.

Dan's early Christmas presents

2007-12-01T18:48:00.003-05:00

A cashmere scarf and Calvin Klein coat. (I got him the sweater last Christmas. Note the shoes that I blogged about...)

Joyeux Anniversaire, Carole !

2007-11-25T12:53:00.001-05:00

Happy birthday to my friend Carole from France! She defines the word "elegant" and is constantly an inspiration to me. Here are some more photos of her being amazing...

And me and Carole at Versailles:

2007 Gift Guide: Part Six

2007-11-22T13:29:00.000-05:00

Log boxes from Jayson Home and Garden, $30-48
I bought something very similar to this for my dad last Christmas from Rose and Radish, and they really are the perfect gift for the kind of guy who needs little boxes on his desk to store small things in.

22 oz. Bee House teapot, $26.95
These are the most well-designed teapots out there, and the array of colors they come in is amazing. I love the removable screen infuser.

Red coral bowl from Jayson Home and Garden, $59-89
Whatever, the people on your gift list aren't over the coral trend yet, either.

Basket bowl from Branch, $48
So much nicer than an overly countrified woven basket.

Set of 3 mirrored boxes from Brocade Home, $69
Honestly, what girl wouldn't want this? It's the kind of thing that, upon opening, you realized you didn't know you always wanted.

2007 Gift Guide: Part Five

2007-11-21T22:53:00.000-05:00

Kate Spade Perry Street clock, $40
This has to be the cutest clock ever.

Rosette filigree earrings from Fred Flare, $10
These earrings are very of-the-moment and inexpensive; I've seen the same ones of the same quality in boutiques for over 3 times this price.

Jazzy rose ring by Allison Daniel Designs, $48
Such a beautiful design at a reasonable price. Check out her other rings, too.

Pom pom throw from Calypso Home, $50
This throw comes in enough colors to suit anyone you know. I can hardly believe Calypso Home has anything this well-priced, either!

Home Chic Home sewing kit from Shop Intuition, $10
Seriously, have you ever seen a sewing kit this cute?

Cath Kidston recipe organizer from Amazon.com, $13.57
Cath Kidston never goes out of style. The cheapest price on the internet! (God, I'm starting to sound like a cheapskate! Maybe I should just make a $10 gift guide.)

2007 Gift Guide: Part Four, Jill Bliss

2007-11-21T20:52:00.001-05:00

I bought this mix and match stationery set from Jill Bliss, $8.95, in a book store a couple of years ago, and I recently saw her products on Amazon.com. They're adorable, and very well-priced--any of them would be great gifts. I love the modern take on floral-themed paper items.

Native flowers mini journal set, $14.95

Native flowers notecard book, $15.95

She also has a "hidden habitats" 2008 wall calendar in collaboration with Sallee Oh at Fred Flare:

Vegan Thanksgiving

2007-11-21T15:49:00.000-05:00

Williamsburg Winery's Jamestown Cellars Settlers' Spiced Wine, served hot in a decanter (or, in my case, a large flower vase...)

Asparagus Salad
(recipe here)

Cranberry Sauce with Mandarin Orange Slices
-12 oz. cranberries
-1.5 c. sugar
-.75 c. water
-1 small can mandarin oranges, drained
Boil. Seriously.

Butternut Squash Risotto
-6 c. vegetable broth
-4 tbsp buttery spread
-1 finely chopped onion
-1 butternut squash, peeled and chopped
-2 c. arborio rice
-1 c. white wine-chopped parsley, fresh ground black pepper
Heat broth in a pot on the stove top and keep warm on low heat. Melt the buttery spread with the onions and squash; cook until the onions are translucent. Add the rice, cook 1-2 minutes, until coated with buttery spread. Add wine and let the rice soak it up. Add broth gradually, in small amounts, stirring frequently. Add the parsley and pepper to taste.

Red Wine Pears
-4 firm pears
-1 bottle red wine
-1 c. sugar
-1 vanilla bean
-2 cinnamon sticks
-1 whole clove
Peel the pears carefully, retaining the stems. Lay them in a large pot. Pour in the wine and add the other ingredients. Bring to a boil and simmer covered for an hour, turning every 15 minutes. Finally, leave in the syrup and refrigerate overnight, turning occasionally.

Pumpkin Pie
(recipe here)
Seriously, pumpkin pies are so easy to make. Why do people buy frozen ones? They taste so much better homemade.

And yes...we did have a Tofurky Roast:

Pixelgirlpresents

2007-11-19T11:15:00.000-05:00

"Red Treetop," "Blue Treetop," and "Green Treetop" by Ben Schlitter

"L'oiseau sur la branche" by Toni HOTA

"The Wood" by Elyas Beria

"Moderne" by Noah Hogan

"McKean" by Paolo Campana

All images featured on, or found via, Pixelgirl Presents.

Hedgehogs

2007-11-19T10:23:00.000-05:00

Maybe it's just a rural German thing, but hedgehogs are the cutest thing ever. I've adored them my whole life because they're kind of gardening mascots, but lately I've been seeing them everywhere...

Hedgehog ornament from Anthropologie

Hedgehog Tote bag by Maryink on Etsy, $16

Papered Together hedgehog coasters from Rose and Radish, $11.50

Papered Together set of six holiday cards from their Etsy shop, $16

Hedgehog card from Elsewares, $4.50

Hedgehog charm necklace from the Curiosity Shoppe, $20

Hedgehog wall sticker, $36

Hedgehog family mobile from Modernseed, $28

Inexpensive Lighting

2007-11-17T17:36:00.000-05:00

Pharmacy desk lamp from Target, $28.79

Melrose ceramic lamp from JCPenny online outlet, $24.99

Branch table lamp from West Elm, $59.99

Crystal ball lamp from JCPenney, $79

Vintage Aqua Dining Chairs

2007-11-17T17:33:00.000-05:00

I have developed an unhealthy obession with this set of four vintage aqua dining chairs at Jayson Home and Garden. They're perfect--the as-found chipped aqua paint, the cane backs, the creme burlap upholstry, the curves... I've been looking at them and sighing for weeks.

2007 Holiday Gift Guide: Part Three

2007-11-14T22:07:00.001-05:00

Nordstrom cashmere wrap/scarf, $99
Although I could never justify spending this much on a scarf, I saw this in person today. It is the softest, most beautiful cashmere, and comes in the most beautiful colors. I really wanted it in the "sweet melon" color, but alas...I am a college student.

Silver jewelry tree, $59.95.
A more elegant and unique alternative to the lovely, super-affordable version from Urban Outfitters.

Twig salad servers, $44
I know you know someone for whom this would be the perfect gift.

Philosophy Gift Sets:

Cranberry, $25
3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel, and bubble bath and body lotion

The Fireman, $30
Spiced apple cider 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel, and bubble bath and cinnamon buns body soufflé

Home for the Holidays, $30
Double rich hot cocoa, cinnamon buns, and spiced apple cider 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel, and bubble bath

Cookie exchange, $30
Double chocolate chip, coconut macaroon, and spiced cookie 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel, and bubble bath

2007 Holiday Gift Guide: Part Two

2007-11-11T22:27:00.001-05:00

Agate bookends, $44
There are a million places you can buy these on the web; just beware of shipping and handling. If you're lucky, there's a rock & gem mining site or natural cave giftshop near you. I love the rugged elegance these add to a bookshelf.
Edit: I just realized that Jayson Home and Garden has them, too. I got Dan a set from somewhere unmemorable for Christmas last year, which makes me feel so ahead of the trend. Ha!

2008 Daily Planner, $35
While this is normally the kind of thing people buy for themselves, certain people (like me) would be overly excited about such a nice planner to the point that it would freak out other people (like my boyfriend), for whom organization just isn't as important to daily functioning. Each day takes up a full page, and there's a ribbon to keep your place.

Gold metallic jacquard wrap from Banana Republic, $88
Someone you know just might be obsessing over a metallic damask coat right now (so French...seeing a trend?). While this may seem a bit pricey for a wrap, it's cheaper than a coat. People rarely buy little luxuries like this for themselves, and the holidays are just the time to buy them for others.

Two-sip flask keychain, $29.50
You could give this to a guy right now, and he'd still use it when he's 80. That alone makes it an amazing gift.

Martha Stewart Everyday hedgehog ornament, $2.99
I can't in good conscience advise anyone to buy the owl or squirrel because they look a little creepy, but the hedgehog is adorable and would lend just the right amount of rustic charm to a Christmas tree.

2007 Holiday Gift Guide: Part One

2007-11-11T20:53:00.000-05:00

Bodum French coffee press, $29.99
French coffee presses are simple and sophisticated in a very European way. They make the strongest, richest, and tastiest coffee because there is no paper filter to trap the essential oils. All you need is some sugar or spices to have a delicious, non-bitter cup of coffee.

Organic, shade-grown, and open-air roasted spiced Ethiopian coffee from Abyssinian Market, $12.95
The best coffee I have ever tasted in my life from Genet Dabei, the sweetest woman ever. "Abyssinians use the open-air method because it does not extract the oil for an unparalleled and flavorful cup of coffee."

Hot air balloon pendant necklace from J.Crew, $75

Jeweled beehive pendant necklace, $75

Pavé crystal acorn necklace, $50
I am so impressed with these three pieces from J.Crew's new jewelry line. Their enamel bangles are fantastic as well, but these necklaces are really special. Although they come from the mother of all that is preppy, these really suit anyone with a whimsical side (unlike all those "critters" pants and wellies J.Crew is now known for, which are just kitschy...ew).

Paddywax wassail candle, $17
This is the perfect holiday fragrance: true to reality, strong, and invokes genuine holiday warmth, not cheesy Christmas spirit. 8 oz jar, 60 hours burn time.

Fashioning a Home with Clinton Kelly

2007-11-10T16:13:00.001-05:00

Earlier this week, I got an email from Clinton Kelly (no, not a personal one; I subscribed to email updates on his website). What's the one thing that could make me happier than a regular episode of my favorite show, What Not to Wear? Why, Clinton and/or Stacy doing interior design, of course!

I'm having trouble finding more photos of the results, but it is beautiful.

All images from the Hartford Courant.

2007-11-09T13:44:00.001-05:00

I know things have been really quiet around here lately, but I promise I'll do some real posting this weekend. I had some catching up on schoolwork to do after I took the GRE last Saturday, but things are getting back to normal now.

Image: "Freiburg in December" by Deanmann

Sale at Nordstrom

2007-11-07T21:10:00.000-05:00

DvF "Ayua" Dress

DvF "Megan" Wrap Dress

Maggy London Faux Wrap Dress

Maggy London Shift Dress

Lucite Bracelet

John Robshaw Online Shop

2007-11-06T20:51:00.001-05:00

One of my first posts on this blog was about John Robshaw textiles. These were formerly somewhat difficult to find online, but now he's opened a shop! There are some beautiful new items:

GRE

2007-10-29T08:43:00.000-04:00

I'm taking the GRE this Saturday, so posting will be especially light this week. Wish me luck!

Silhouette Louis-style coffee tables

2007-10-26T13:50:00.000-04:00

The pictured table is from Brocade home, and there's another one at Anthropologie which I can't save a picture of because it's in Adobe flash player. (Anyone know a way to get around that with Macs?) Anyway, both are on sale. I think they're very lovely.

Alex the parrot

2007-10-26T13:11:00.000-04:00

Dan just told me that Alex, an extremely intelligent and famous parrot, is dead. I'm so sad. Here's a really good video about him. His reasoning skills and understanding of the words he said were so amazing.

From Wikipedia's selected quotes on Alex:

"When Dr Pepperberg left Alex with a vet for treatment, Alex vocalized the words 'Come here. I love you. I'm sorry. I want to go back.'"

According to Dr. Pepperberg, the final time she saw Alex was on Thursday September 6. They went through their goodnight routine in which she told him it was time to go in the cage. She recalls that Alex said "You be good. I love you." She responded, "I love you, too." He said "You'll be in tomorrow," and she responded, "Yes, I'll be in tomorrow."

myAgenda

2007-10-24T19:40:00.000-04:00

I needed a new planner this week. I got a little $3 one from the student stores on campus in August, but being only $3, there wasn't enough room to write everything I have to do in it, plus it didn't hold up at all. So this week I started looking for a new one. I wasn't easily satisfied. I looked for a better one in the student stores with no luck; I actually bought one and returned it after I realized it was only for 2008. I wanted something that started in August so that I could write down what I've done so far this school year (to keep as a record, and because I'm obsessive) and also went all the way through 2008, though I wasn't going to get my hopes up about that.

Today I looked to see what See Jane Work had, and found the myAgenda, from the makers of momAgenda. I looked to see how much the shipping was from either See Jane Work or straight from the source, and it was almost $10 at either of them. Nuh uh. So I looked to see where momAgenda's products were available locally, and found them at Salutations in Meadowmont Village.

I really hated spending $35 on an agenda, but this one was truly everything I wanted, and as I said, I'm obsessive. I use my planner every day, so it would be worth the cost if I could find the perfect one. The metallic espresso cover is beautiful, and there are two ribbons to keep your place in the book. There are different blocks in the daily/weekly planner section to use for whatever you want. I'm using mine to keep track of my deadlines, work hours, class schedule, random appointments, and homework/miscellaneous to-do. There are separate sections for birthdays and anniversaries; websites, usernames, and passwords; take-out/delivery phone numbers; and a ton of other useful things that I constantly have to look up in inconvenient places. It's so nice to have all those little things in one place where they're easy to find.

By the way, it goes from August 2007 through the end of 2008. It really is perfect.

Tiger's Eye Pine Cone Earrings by Annette Ferdinandsen

2007-10-19T21:13:00.000-04:00

I've been obsessed with these earrings from Katy Beh Contemporary Jewelry since they were featured in Lucky some months ago; possibly almost a year. I still can't stop thinking about them. Sadly, they're over $400, so by the time I can afford them, they probably won't be available anymore. Kind of like how by the time I learned how to pronounce "Czechoslovakia," it wasn't a country anymore.

Ribbon Tableware by notNeutral

2007-10-19T20:45:00.000-04:00

I adore this this tableware by notNeutral at 2modern. It reminds me of Spirographs...which as a child I could never quite get the hang of bceause the ball point pens wouldn't go all the way through the holes...

Black and white rugs

2007-10-19T20:22:00.000-04:00

I've been admiring these rugs all summer. They're fairly priced, too.

Morocco rug at CB2

Rococo rug at Eurway

Flapper Dots printed rug at Urban Outfitters

Cheshire Rug at Rezon8 Living

Cobblestone Cat

2007-10-19T19:50:00.001-04:00

Cobblestone Cat, originally uploaded by one-11.

One day, a few years from now, when Dan and I move back to Germany, we will bring Ollie with us in the very cat carrier that my parents took our cats with them to Germany in almost 30 years ago. And Ollie can walk on the cobblestones (on a leash, of course; yes, my cat has a leash) like this Dutch cat.

I find this picture so funny. It's as if the cat is fixing to give the photographer a tour of Haarlem, or leading him/her to meet his new friend down the street.

Vintage Brass Buckle Ring

2007-10-19T17:31:00.001-04:00

This vintage ring from Tiger Lilly Shop on Etsy is so cool and different.

2008 Botanical Calendar

2007-10-18T20:10:00.000-04:00

(click to view in detail)

I love this 2008 Screen/Gocco Printed Botanical Calendar by Anna Cote found via decor8. I see a pattern in my taste with regard to this kind of silhouette-like floral prints... (see posts on Blissliving Home Bedding and Atelier Lzc)

Active Endeavors

2007-10-18T19:00:00.000-04:00

Fortunately, they don't just sell a bunch of gym clothes, as the name might suggest. I discovered them a couple of months ago when searching for websites that sell T Bags. According to their website, they "continue to push [themselves] by constantly creating change and taking risks with new designers and products while continuing to provide [their] customers with the brands for which [they] have become known."

Bell Sleeve Tunic Dress by Puella

English Lace Wrap Top by Testament

Short Sleeve Natasha by Rory Beca

Short Sleeve Military Dress by Clu

V Neck 3/4 Sleeve Dress by T Bags

Halter Blouse by T Bags

Dan's Craiglist purchases

2007-10-15T22:21:00.000-04:00

At my request for our future home together, Dan bought one of these red chairs, which he says is more of a really pretty red-orange:

And this coffee table, which wouldn't normally be my taste, but I actually really loved it and begged him for it:

Sustainable Consumerism

2007-10-15T17:59:00.000-04:00

I've been meaning to do a post on this since I started this blog. It's something that's very close to my heart, as I've spent a long time in Europe and am passionate about the environment.

As much as I love "window shopping" online (as is obvious from this blog), I believe in consuming as little as possible. I want to love everything I own; I hate making purchases and later regretting them. I view my purchases as investments that will last a long time so that I won't have to replace them. This usually means spending more money on something that won't wear out nearly as quickly as most cheap products inevitably do. On my college student budget, this is fairly difficult, but I've been doing the best I can since I realized what a difference this makes in the amount of waste I produce as well as in my bank account (in the long run).

This kind of responsible consumerism is a normal way of life for Europeans, but in America, most people live from paycheck to paycheck and can only afford to buy the cheapest thing available at places like Wal-Mart. Unfortunately, they have to replace these products quite frequently, which not only costs them more money over time, but adds to the waste in landfills.

As it is, our extravagances pollute the environment as well. The amount of gas required for transportation and the packaging materials our products come in contribute to the amount of waste we produce in buying and throwing away cheap goods. What goes into our products can also pollute the environment as well as our individual home environments (hence the organic food/textile movement). Sadly, our corporations also extract resources and dump toxins all over the world.

In the grand scheme of things, I believe that this lifestyle of unsustainable consumerism will cause an economic crash in America. We are already the biggest debtor nation, and we can't continue to buy more than we sell forever. Every purchase we make has an effect on our economy. If we become sustainable consumers, this effect can be positive. We must also keep in mind that our purchasing habits affect other people. America is a role model for the rest of the world, and we must keep this responsibility in mind when we make our own decisions. If the developing world mimics our current consumer habits, we can only imagine what would happen to the planet.

I'm so proud that Al Gore won the Nobel Peace Prize this week. He has been so instrumental in convincing Americans that environmentalism isn't a "liberal" issue, but a moral responsibility. America still has a lot of catching up to do in terms of our efforts in comparison with Europe, but knowledge is the first step. No one will change their habits if they aren't aware of the repercussions.

In terms of design, I believe that if we are pickier about what we spend our money on, we will appreciate our surroundings more and have a more fulfilling life. It's important to recognize that we don't need to neglect our own happiness to be responsible consumers. Sustainable consumerism and design can make our lives better.

Recipe Journal

2007-10-15T17:38:00.001-04:00

I've wanted this recipe journal since the beginning of the summer...hint, hint Mom or Dan...I need a place to put all my recipes!

Ryan Jacob Smith

2007-10-15T17:32:00.001-04:00

I love this acrylic painting called "Late Bloomer" by Ryan Jacob Smith found via design for mankind. Hopefully he'll sell prints of it when he gets his online shop up...

Pattern Bent Wood Chair

2007-10-13T20:14:00.001-04:00

I really wish I could afford this chair from Brocade home. It would look so perfect in my room with my desk.

I just can't get over certain pieces in the Brocade Home collection. I love the ones that really modernize an over-the-top baroque design by making it a "2-d" cutout with simplified curves as opposed to a "3-d" carved piece, if the 2- vs. 3-d thing makes sense to anyone else.

Curved Leg Table from Brocade Home

2007-10-13T17:10:00.000-04:00

I like these little tables, but does the "citron" one look more olive, or is it just me?

Pillow Top Settee in Flocked Bird

2007-10-13T15:12:00.001-04:00

I love this settee from Urban Outfitters, though I wish it were just the black bird design on plain white.

Georgia Chapman

2007-10-13T14:11:00.000-04:00

"Georgia Chapman, the Melbourne-based designer and maker of Vixen textiles, fashion and homewares, has developed an international following for her custom-dyed, hand printed, etched and embellished silks, jerseys and velvets. Prior to establishing her own label, Georgia's designs adorned collections for Collette Dinnigan and Scanlan & Theodore.
"Georgia's unique style has translated beautifully into a seductive collection of rugs that carry her hallmark - hand - detailed layers of complimentary colours and prints combining in luxurious union.
"The Vixen collection by Designer Rugs is based on favourite prints and fabrics from future and recent collections. The tactile element has been achieved through the use of pure silk embellishments, differing yarn heights and pattern layering."

These rugs are so fabulous that I'm just going to post the pictures of them, as opposed to the pictures of them in a room:

via desire to inspire

Blissliving Home Bedding

2007-10-10T20:05:00.000-04:00

I love the modern nature-inspired designs on these bed linens from Blissliving Home. It reminds me of a higher-end version of my own duvet cover from Urban Outfitters, with some influence from Atelier Lzc.

Anis Duvet Set

Amanda Green Duvet Set

Mallory Aqua Duvet Set

Pia Duvet Set

If I were a table...

2007-10-06T22:56:00.001-04:00

I might be this one.

Happy birthday, Alex!

2007-10-06T14:20:00.001-04:00

Photo from Flickr.

Alex, my roommate, is turning 22 tomorrow. Check out her blog, where she reviews films: From the Vault.

Classic Cooking

2007-10-06T13:56:00.000-04:00

Such is my result from the House and Garden kitchen style quiz:

"You want a kitchen that makes a statement and makes you feel at home. A big center island with all your tools at hand is the key to your happiness, backed up by a professional-style range and refrigerator and arranged so the cooking is at center stag. The following kitchens—whether all-white, Southwestern, ultra-Mod or French country—answer the call."

They included a slideshow just for me at the end (aww):

All images from House and Garden.

My cheap bedroom redo vs. Gwyneth's Hamptons getaway

2007-10-06T13:40:00.000-04:00

Sigh. I considered actually blogging about the bungalow today--specifically, the cost of my very cheap bedroom redo over the summer (less than $500). However, my mother--my primary source of funding and a loyal reader of this blog--and I have different ideas of cheap. So, I leave you with the complete opposite (monetarily, at least) of what I considered blogging: Gwyneth Paltrow's house.

Why, yes, she apparently is that perfect.

Cute tailored shoes at Target and Payless?

2007-10-03T20:32:00.000-04:00

Tailored pumps with a tweed-like fabric (it is Target; it's probably some substance from another planet that looks like fabric).

I'm confused. How are these so CUTE?!

My favorite rooms from the Domino decorating contest

2007-10-03T18:45:00.000-04:00

All images from dominomag.com. And the first image is from a house in Carrboro...holler.

artgoodies (Etsy)

2007-10-01T20:00:00.000-04:00

deer tea towel

nest tea towel

artgoodies makes the cutest linoleum block-printed textiles. These two are my favorite: I'll never be over the deer trend, and nests with eggs in them is kind of my thing.

Wolfie and the Sneak

2007-10-01T19:39:00.000-04:00

I've really been wanting these posters from Wolfie and the Sneak, but there's nowhere to put them in the Bungalow kitchen. They'll really be perfect for my and Dan's kitchen when we move in together, though.

Other cool prints/originals:

lady problems

nestled in paisley

lotus pods

For those of us who are addicted to Etsy, here's their Etsy shop!

Argento Vivo

2007-09-28T22:01:00.000-04:00

I wannit.

Markham Roberts

2007-09-28T19:06:00.000-04:00

After reading about Markham Roberts in the September issue of Domino, I had to check out his portfolio online. He uses very deep, rich colors and fabrics that are too much for my personal taste, but I very much admire his talent and the way he puts unexpected things together, like this leopard-print rug in an otherwise traditional setting:

My favorite shade of green

2007-09-28T19:01:00.001-04:00

I have been obsessing over this pear green room in the September issue of Domino. Seriously, I got to this page, and I haven't been able to read the rest of the magazine because I can't bear to turn the next page...it's sad.

Koko Company

2007-09-28T18:46:00.001-04:00

I first saw Koko Company bedding on PillowsandThrows.com a few months ago, so I'm not sure why I waited until now to do a post on them. Probably because I went through that phase when I first started this blog where all I posted about was bedding...

In any case, Koko Company's gorgeous bedding has the most beautiful colors--mostly very vivid, though there are some very calming, neutral collections as well. My favorites are Habitat and Kaleidoscope, as shown above. I think Habitat would be such a great solution for couples moving in together, and who can resist Kaleidoscope's bright, warm colors?

New banner courtesy of Alex

2007-09-27T23:35:00.000-04:00

My friend Alex Pasco (not to be confused with my housemate), the man who brings you Celebrities-Eating.com, has made me a lovely banner incorporating my silver Tord Boontje garland lamp and a nice arts and crafts font. Thanks, Alex!!

Flickr

2007-09-27T19:45:00.000-04:00

Somehow, over the years, I have managed to avoid the hype that is Flickr. The only reason I had ever imagined I would use sites like that for was to host my own photos, and I already had an account with Photobucket. Now, as an amateur design blogger, I feel inadequate. I need to get with the program and figure out how to use Flickr and start doing Flickr posts. But I lack the motivation. Someone help me, please? Tell me what some good design photo groups (or whatever they're called there) are? General tips?

Tiny Swedish apartment

2007-09-27T19:37:00.000-04:00

I adore this 30 km sq apartment that Emma blogged about today. It certainly will serve as good inspiration for when Dan and I have to move into a tiny apartment next summer...

Damask Pedestal Table

2007-09-27T19:29:00.000-04:00

I've been meaning to post about this side table from Urban Outfitters for about five weeks, since my housemate Erin's birthday. Alex, one of the other housemates, and I got her this version of the table. And now a ton of other bloggers have blogged about it, so ironically, I'm the last to post on it. Oh well.

Stina Persson

2007-09-27T19:04:00.000-04:00

Stina Persson's new and improved website is up today! She's my (and everyone else's) favorite commercial artist.

Edit: Jo at A Cup of Jo posted about it, too. Ha!

Bloom bed linens

2007-09-23T19:31:00.000-04:00

Why the hell did I never notice the Bloom bed linens at Crate and Barrel until now, when there aren't any left online? It's my exact favorite shade of green. I'm grumpy now.

DvF

2007-09-23T00:25:00.001-04:00

Oh, how I want this Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress.

Urban Outfitters sale

2007-09-22T23:58:00.001-04:00

The Tangiers Tile Sheet Set at Urban Outfitters is on sale 50% off--just $25. Someone buy it so I can be jealous.

Though I wish it were a slightly less neon green, I'd still be totally jealous if you got the High Roller Chair, which is now $70 off.

"I think you have too many shoes." "Shut up!"

2007-09-22T21:15:00.000-04:00

I was trying to read Bruchstück einer Hysterie-Analyse by Freud for homework, but then I got to the part where Dora tells him about her dream where her house is on fire and her mom wants to take her jewelry box, but her dad's all like, Hell no we aren't dying because of your goddamn jewelry. Which made me want to look at pretty things online. I ended up doing heavier research on good-looking vegan shoes and handbags. (In case you hadn't noticed from all my recipes, I'm vegan.)

Bond Street Shoulder Bag from Matt & Nat

"Buddha" bag by Matt and Nat

Jorja Fox by Matt and Nat

Monarch Black hobo bag

Now the shoes. I love shoes with menswear detailing; I started buying a lot of shoes like that back in 2005, before it became a trend. I feel so ahead of the game.

Bridget brown pump from Novacas

Amelia Gold Peep-toe

ah nee mähl pumps

Melanie Olive Faux Suede Vegan Slip-On Flats

Black Pointy Patent Pleather Vegan Pump

Madden Girl G-Darcy Patent Vegan Pump

Evelyn Blue Faux Snakeskin Cross-straps

Greek champignons served with orzo pasta and white asparagus

2007-09-16T18:13:00.000-04:00

Greek champignons

600 g whole champignons (white mushrooms)
Juice of 1 lemon
2/3 bottle white whine
1 large tomato, diced
1 large onion, diced
1 bay leaf
1 Tbs Thyme
1 Tbs Rosemary
2-3 Tbs chopped fresh parsley
2 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, pressed
fresh ground black pepper

Heat the olive oil in a pot. Cook the onions until glassy, then add the pressed garlic. When they are well cooked, add the white wine and lemon juice, then add the diced tomato and whole champignons and stir. Bring to a boil and cook for about 2 minutes, then lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. The dish is done when the mushrooms are a very light brown color and the sauce looks orangey.

Orzo pasta: Saute pine nuts to a golden brown color while the pasta cooks. After having drained the pasta, mix in the pine nuts, some chopped fresh parsley and basil, and fresh ground black pepper.

White asparagus: This vegetable has a very refined taste, so all you need is to peel the stalks after breaking off the dry ends, boil for 5-7 minutes, then add chopped fresh parsley, buttery spread, and some black pepper and salt.

Dolce Vita

2007-09-14T16:40:00.001-04:00

Someone stop me from buying these shoes.

What my housemates do to Ollie when I'm doing homework

2007-09-13T15:30:00.000-04:00

Apologies and our first Bungalow Party

2007-09-13T15:16:00.001-04:00

I didn't realize until I published the asparagus risotto recipe that it has been 8 days since my last post. I had to give a presentation on courtly love this week and blah blah blah... I'm starting to get the feeling this blog will be more active Thursday-Sunday, and Monday-Wednesday will be my "weekend," which is actually exactly the opposite of what the word "weekend" suggests.

Pictures from a party we had last Friday:

Timothy trying to tap the keg in a corner of the backyard

Dan and Erin on the patio, drinking my good German beer

Me and Erin

Dan and me

Asparagus Risotto

2007-09-13T15:05:00.001-04:00

About 4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup white wine
1 large bunch green asparagus (about 1 lb.)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 finely chopped onion
1 cup Arborio rice
1 tablespoon buttery spread
1-2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Zest of 1 lemon
pepper to taste

Pour the vegetable broth into a pot and bring to a boil. Meanwhile, snap the dry ends off the asparagus stalks. Add the asparagus spears to the stock and simmer until the stalks are tender but still hold their shape, about 7 minutes. Remove the spears with a skimmer and set aside on a plate.

Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan and add the diced onion. Cook until glassy. Add the buttery spread and the arborio rice, and stir until the grains are coated in the buttery spread and look pearly white, about 2 minutes.

Add the wine and cook until the pan is nearly dry. Adjust the heat so that the rice cooks at a slow simmer. Add a ladle full of vegetable stock, stir, and cook until the pan is nearly dry again. Repeat until a creamy sauce forms and the rice is tender.

Cut the asparagus spears into pieces about 1 inch long. Add the spears, lemon zest, parsley, and freshly ground black pepper to the risotto to let the flavor soak in for just a few minutes.

Rococo Mirror

2007-09-07T14:36:00.001-04:00

As I have said before in my post about Brocade Home, I really love stripped down, modernized versions of over-the-top Baroque pieces.

Rococo Mirror at Dutch by Design

Scott Weston Architecture*Design

2007-09-07T14:25:00.000-04:00

I read about this Sydney company today on Desire to Inspire and it absolutely took my breath away. Scott Weston Architecture*Design uses color and geometric patterns so beautifully.

Jupiter Ball

2007-09-05T17:30:00.000-04:00

I work at UNC's Morehead Planetarium, and every year in November, we hold a black-tie fundraising gala. I'm not sure how long my dress should be, as black-tie can mean anything from floor-length gowns to formal yet knee-length cocktail dresses. In any case, I really like these Maggy London dresses at Nordstrom:

beaded crinkle chiffon dress

chiffon dress with sash

cascade front chiffon dress

And these dresses from a few other brands:

Betsy & Adam sweetheart lace inset party dress

Jones New York knot front dress

JS Boutique sleeveless beaded mesh dress

Non-running sneakers

2007-09-03T11:07:00.000-04:00

I owe Dan some money from my last visit to Princeton, before my student loan check came in. As part of that, I have decided to buy him a pair of sneakers with the rule that he is no longer allowed to wear his running shoes in public anymore unless he's actually running. In the running (ha) for his new shoes:

Diesel Parapat

Saucony Blaze

Ben Sherman Benzina

Alex, one of my housemates, and I don't really like how the rubber outsole on the shoe by Ben Sherman comes up on the side and in front. We both like the Diesel shoe the best. But I'm letting Dan choose which one he wants...I mean, all of them are a major improve...er, change.

La Redoute

2007-09-01T15:07:00.000-04:00

Well, damn. This post was going to be about the rugs at Lavender Fields, but they won't let you right-click on their website to save pictures. Alas, I am left only with the pictures that Design*Sponge posted a few days ago. Which I suppose makes this post rather pointless, because I was going to post pictures of other rugs they have. Nevermind. I give up. Time for a post about cheap French fashion instead.

La Redoute is a sister company of Chadwick's, but don't let that bias your opinion against them. They're much more hip than Chadwick's. I've bought a black velvet blazer and teal pea coat from them, and am very impressed with the quality. The pieces don't seem cheap in person at all.

I'd been thinking about buying some tops from them, but, as may already be known to you, I'm a broke college student, so I'm making due with my old-ass H&M tops. The only reason that bothers me is because I like them so much, and I hate feeling like I'm wearing them out by wearing them so often.

Back to the point, La Redoute's clothes that are very of-the-moment without seeming too trendy. I think they carry over to the next season very well, which is important to me, because I believe in sustainable consumerism--that is, buying pieces that will last a long time, thus saving you money and being less wasteful.

They currently have a great selection of tunics, and now's a good time to shop since it's Labor Day weekend! Let me know if you buy anything so I can live vicariously through you...

Mediterranean Orzo Pasta

2007-08-30T17:58:00.001-04:00

This is a dish I developed on my own, so most ingredients don't have exact measurements.

250g orzo pasta
olive oil
1 onion
1/2 eggplant
1 roasted red pepper
sliced mushrooms
kalamata olives
sundried tomatoes
pine nuts
3 cloves garlic, pressed or finely chopped
chopped parsley and basil
pepper

Dice the onion and sauté in a pan with some olive oil and the pine nuts on medium heat. Add the garlic when the onions are translucent and the pine nuts are golden. Chop the eggplant and add to the pan with some more olive oil. When the eggplant looks halfway cooked, add the mushrooms. Fill a pot with water, salt heavily--this is what makes your pasta taste good, and bring to a boil. In the meantime, chop the roasted red pepper and sundried tomatoes Cook the orzo pasta until done, then drain. By now the eggplant and mushrooms should be thoroughly cooked. Mix the pasta, sautéd mixture, chopped herbs, olives, sundried tomatoes, and roasted red pepper in a bowl and add some more olive oil. Add pepper to taste.

Ta-da!

2007-08-28T14:43:00.000-04:00

Yes, three of the picture frames on the side table are knocked over and the painting supplies are still on the floor. I'm quite stressed out right now because for the last two years, I had tons of free time, but now I constantly have work to do. If only I didn't need that damn part-time job. I knew it was a bad idea.

Armoire

2007-08-27T21:08:00.000-04:00

I'm done painting the armoire and I put new glass knobs on it. But no time for pictures today. I will have plenty of time tomorrow, though.

Arnold

2007-08-25T11:59:00.000-04:00

I've been thinking of getting this poster for Dan. He just moved out of the Graduate College dorms into an on-campus apartment at Princeton. It's such a welcoming poster, don't you think?

My favorite Etsy shops

2007-08-24T18:32:00.000-04:00

Rachael Sudlow (I own the earrings pictured)

squrlgurl

tiger lilly

Yellena

Rainy Prints (I own this print)

Honors thesis and Tin

2007-08-23T15:24:00.000-04:00

I met with my honors thesis advisor, Tin, today to talk about what the hell I'm going to write about for the next half year or so of my life. I was tossing around a few ideas in my head, but Frühlings Erwachen (better known to you as Spring's Awakening) kept popping into my mind. I am really interested in how social and cultural problems play out in literature; a year ago I wrote a term paper about the psychological processes of speciesism and colonialism in Robinson Crusoe and Gulliver's Travels--how the mental construction of nonhuman animals and other human animals as the Other is crucial to the process of colonization and subjugation. Anyway, I've decided to write about how sexual suppression was used in the turn of the century to keep adolescents in their (physically outgrown) social status as children, leaving them literally powerless. And since it was the age of Freud and all, there's tons of other primary sources I can look at along with Frühlings Erwachen.

But Tin (short for Christina) is the coolest. She just moved in with her girlfriend finally, but in her old house, she had tree stumps as nightstands (sooo jealous) and on her bed she had a beautiful, simple quilt that she made herself. And that was all that was in her room. It looked so perfect and serene, like a true hideaway. Maybe I can ask her if she has a picture of it, or if she has it set up the same way now and can take a picture.

(Tin in front of the Brandenburger Tor this summer)

Tired.

2007-08-22T17:27:00.001-04:00

I had planned on finishing painting my armoire tonight--I'm almost done--but I'm so tired from being in class and at work all day that I need to take a break.

So, today I leave you with the bedding section at Bluefly.com, which is a great resource for discount designer bedding.

Also, my organic cotton sateen sheets and Ingeo pillows came in the mail. The sheets are so perfectly soft, and the pillows are just the right thickness and your head sinks into them so nicely...I feel like I'm sleeping in a cloud. Much better than my crappy-ass old pillows that were flat and not very soft. Plus, I woke up today so much less sweaty than I usually am. Organic bedding is worth it just for that. Unfortunately, it was 100ºF here plus humid (as usual), so I've been sweaty all day anyway.

French market basket

2007-08-21T13:37:00.000-04:00

I don't need this. I have canvas shopping bags. But isn't it cute? I'm still not letting myself buy it, though. I'll get one for cheap one day in France. And then go au marché.

Silk Trading Co. taffeta pillows

2007-08-21T13:29:00.000-04:00

Taffeta pillows...so shiny and iridescent...

J'ai envie de l'acheter, mais au lieu d'un oreiller, il faut que j'achète un dictionnaire français. Mais la soie, c'est mon truc...

Green armoire

2007-08-20T16:50:00.001-04:00

I started painting it last night, but I'm only half done. And I learned the hard way to let it dry completely before applying a second coat--it's latex paint and it peels off if it's not fully dry. So by trying to put on a second coat while it was still somewhat wet, I pulled off some paint and got bumps all up in it and had to wipe the paint off that entire door. But it's getting there.

Whew.

2007-08-19T13:23:00.000-04:00

I got my student loan check a lot earlier than I expected. This means I can pay off Dan and Jason and paint my armoire like Yvonne at Yvestown painted hers:

Also, I got this duvet set from Urban Outfitters for just $60:

I also washed and ironed the organic cotton sateen bedskirt and put it on the bed. The organic cotton sateen sheet set hasn't come in yet.

I got this Ingeo duvet filler from Target.

So, here's my bed, with my old pillowcases (which I think look very nice with the new duvet):

Note the red lamp on the mirrored vanity table. That's the one I had to replace the shade on, because it came with the ugly red gingham shade. The new shade from Lowes didn't really fit under where you screw in the lightbulb, so I did the best I could with hot glue. Apparently that fell apart while I was on vacation. I can't think of another solution, so I guess it's time to pull out the hot glue gun again.