Happy, Happy Halloween

Don't you just love this old Halloween photo? I found it here, on Neato Coolville's photostream.

I hope you have a very Happy Halloween, filled with lots of yummy treats, and plenty of hot cocoa.

Halloween Art

To get in the spirit of things, here's a collection of Halloween artwork that caught my eye over at deviantArt. Enjoy.

1. Follow the Road, by Mystik-Rider

2. Halloween, by Sugargrl14

3. Halloween, by Madydiu

4. My Treasure, by bigmamajen

5. Halloween, by t-motion

6. Halloween Tree, by manzin

{All photos from deviantArt}

Hope you have a fabulous Halloween!

Thank You

I wish I could hand-deliver each of you a big, yummy, chocolate cupcake today. Not becasue it's Halloween, but because I'm thankful for you. Each of you. Just to recap, my week has been awesome. It's not everyday (it's only once in a lifetime, in my case) that you start a week with an emergency makeover; make a brief, yet exciting appearance on the news; then get innundated with kind words and support from friends--both old and new. So to each of you I offer my most sincere thanks...you sure know how to make a girl feel special! I can guarantee that my life (and hence, my blog) will probably not be as exciting in the days and weeks to come, but I hope you keep coming back to visit me here anyway. Thanks again for the overwhelming kindness you've shown me this week.

Update

I got up early today to watch my segment. It turned out pretty good. I definitely looked really nervous (for obvious reasons). But nothing overly embarrassing happened. The story featured Shoshana Berger (pictured above) of ReadyMade Magazine. I love ReadyMade so much, so it's a huge honor to even be in the same segment as Shoshana.

It was a really cool experience, and definitely something I never thought would happen to me. I do have to say that I'm relieved it's all over and I can stop worrying about it.

Here's the link to the transcript. Just click on "Watch the Video". If you're going to watch it, though, you have to promise not to laugh too hard at me. :)

Rain, Rain Go Away

We're scheduled to have a weekend full of rain. I personally love rain. But rainy days mean finding indoor activities where the kids are concerned. Here are a few things to keep in mind for a rainy (or snowy) day:

Take some of those things you collected on your last nature walk and make little creatures from them. Use google eyes and glue to make them come to life. {Photo & idea from Family Fun}

We love all of the Word World toys. They have a great selection of them at Target. Hudson especially likes the memory game (you know...pick two cards, try to get a match). But this Magnetic Play Set looks like fun, too. Also check out Word World's website for more fun games.

These Tempra Painters are a must-have. The foam tips allow for drawing, splatting, and all sorts of other techniques with minimal mess. The paint is washable...another must. I really can't say enough good things about these paints. Hudson loves painting with them; and I love it when he does because there's really not much to clean up when he's done. Get them here.

Tree Card

This has been in my "things to blog about" file since I saw it on the front page of Etsy a while back. Little Brown Pen posted about it last week, which reminded me that I've been meaning to share it, too.

Tree Card, from little paper bird
Isn't this amazing? I only wish I knew how to use scissors like that.

Halloween Cookies

My trusty kitchen assistant and I made Halloween cookies yesterday. I was in charge of icing them, and he was in charge of sprinkle distribution. (Except for that wobbly attempt at a jack-o-lantern; he requested a little assistance there). I think this was the most fun I've ever had making Halloween cookies...and they're definitely the most...um, interesting-looking halloween cookies I've ever made. But they taste great.

Here's my Mom's sugar cookie recipe. It's really the best I've ever tasted...and they're especially good the day after you bake them, so make sure you have plenty to last through the night.

Sugar Cookies

1 1/2 C. sugar

2 sticks (1 C.) butter

3 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

3 1/2 C. sifted flour

2 tsp. cream of tartar

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

Cream sugar, butter, and eggs until creamy and well mixed. Add vanilla. Sift flour, cream of tartar, soda and salt together. Add to creamed mixture, mixing until thoroughly blended. Chill, covered for 3-4 hours, or overnight.

Roll onto lightly foured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut as desired with floured cutters. Bake on lightly greased baking sheets for 12-15 min. in 375 degree oven. *Do not overbake!*

Decorate when cooled.

I hope you can find some good kitchen help. I don't know what I'd do without mine!

Jonathan Adler at Barnes & Noble

Over the weekend while I was bustling about trying to prepare for my interview, I made a quick trip to Barnes & Noble. I grabbed my merchandise and made a beeline for the checkout. Then something stopped me dead in my tracks. The Jonathan Adler collection, exclusively at B&N. Not only is it the perfect color scheme for my studio, but it's so darn cute!

Pictured items:
{Blue Hands Bookends} I'm a sucker for creative bookends. These are perfection.
{Blue & Brown Words Notebooks} These are the perfect purse-size notebooks. I love the elastic closure...it'll keep out stray fruit snacks and other gross things that may be lurking in my bag!
{Flower File Folders} I didn't get these, but I sure think they're cute.

I guess this post isn't really all that earth-shattering; because how could I not love anything from the impeccable Jonathan Adler? But next time you're shopping for books, check out his collection. Your office will definitely be more organized and pretty because of it.

I can't believe it.

I'm still in shock over what just happened. I just finished taping an interview for ABC7 news. They're doing a story on stay-at-home-moms who make money from their hobbies. I'm still not sure why they picked me. There are so many talented women out there. I'm incredibly flattered, {I'm still blushing} and so excited to have the opportunity.

My weekend was a whirlwind of preparations; I attempted to whip myself and my studio into presentable condition. Here's what I came up with: (Oh, and sorry for the poor lighting, these photos were taken really early this morning).

I prettied-up my studio a bit. It's definitely does not look like this from day-to day. If only I could keep it this neat-looking.

Hudson helped me by doing some paintings for the walls. I love having a place to display his masterpieces. And the other half of the loft is his playroom, so it works perfectly. I also got two big jars for crayons and paints, and Hudson got his much-loved new piggy bank. He likes to carry "Piggy" around the house with him.

Here I am just before the interview. I decided to go kind of casual...that's who I really am, anyway. So I went with the cute leaf sweater from Anthropologie. I was really nervous, but Amy Hollyfield and her camera man were so nice and easy to talk to. Hopefully they'll be generous in their editing and I won't sound like a huge, bumbling idiot! My segment is set to air sometime this week. I'll post a link when it's available. {Unless I'm too embarrassed}

Well, my proverbial 15 minutes are up now, so it's back to regular life. Now we're off to Hudson's preschool for a Halloween party. Have a great Monday.

Anxiety

I'm having some major anxiety over something BIG happening on Monday. Stay tuned for more details! And keep your fingers crossed that I can figure out what to wear.

Happy Fall Friday

Autumn's colours !, originally uploaded by C.Mariani.

For the weekend, I will leave you with this beautiful photo from C. Mariani. Definitely visit her photostream for more wonderful photography.

And I wish you a lovely fall weekend with beautiful weather and lots of fun.

More Than You Ever Wanted to Know, III

Here's this week's installment. In case you're wondering what exactly this post is, you can read more here.

1. 1. I love jelly beans. Especially Jelly Bellys. Except for the icky popcorn flavor.
2. I learned the hard way that you're not supposed to wax your lip (or probably anything else for that matter) while on Accutane. I ended up having a half-moustache shaped scab above my lip for a week. Oh, the horror!
3. As much as I love to sleep, I'm a night owl; and I have major problems dragging my butt to bed at night.
4. In High School, I got nominated to run for Harvest Ball Queen. In the series of events, I had to catch a pig and tie a ribbon on its leg. I was actually pretty good at it.
5. My parenting style is much more laid-back than I thought it would be.
6. My first car was a purple 1996 Dodge Neon.
7. I didn't get an epidural when I had Hudson.
8. When I was 17, I was on a date and the guy accidentally shut my leg in the car door, thus causing a stress fracture to my leg. Don't worry...I was a complete lady and didn't complain about it until I got home from the date.
9. Just before we moved out of the city we had a disgusting rat in our apartment. The funniest part is the way we got rid of him.
10. My favorite pizza is pepperoni + pineapple...with lots of hot pepper sprinkles, of course.

There you have it. Even more that you probably never really wanted to know about me. Have a great Friday!

Dear Abbey

Abbey Necklace

Dear Abbey {Necklace},

Can you come live in my closet?

My wardrobe would be much more lovely with you in it.

Sincerely,

Christina

How Sweet.

Is it possible for artwork to get much sweeter than this?

Heart on Sleeve Wall Art

{by k studio via Design Public}

Oh Canada

Some of my most loyal blog readers and shop customers are in Canada. So to thank my Canadian supporters, I'd like to share some of my favorite Canadian products with you:

I am completely smitten with everything from Lush. I'm especially obsessed with both the Fair Trade Foot Lotion and the Rehab Shampoo right now. Seriously, these two items have worked miracles for my summer-toughened, rhino-esque feet and my brittle, over-processed hair. I know, way too much information...but it's true. And if it's not enough that their products smell fantastic, and work like a dream, they have core beliefs you can feel good about too. See their website to find shop locations and to browse the entire collection.

Next, is one of my all-time favorite artists. Hillarie Tasche. I've blathered on about Hillarie's work previously. You all ready know of my fondness for her charming artwork. There's not a single piece of hers that I don't absolutely love. If you like this bike print, stop by her shop for more.

Now let me introduce you to a Canadian jewelry maker I hearted long ago. Christine Bijoux first captured my attention with this necklace. I've been searching for some chic everyday earrings, and I think I just found them in her Nadine Earrings (above). Love them. Come to think of it, one of my favorite Canadians is named Nadine...it's fate. Anyway, Christine now has a second shop set up where she offers samples of her previous collections at discount prices. Get them while they last!

And what would a Canada-themed post be without my favorite Canadian snack food? A dear friend introduced me to Old Dutch Dill Pickle Chips some time ago...and the rest is delicious history.

So with that, I'd like to give a big hug to my Canadian friends who have given support to both my blog and my shop. You're the best!!! And if you happen to send some dill pickle chips my way, it wouldn't hurt my feelings.

Get Cozy

One of the reasons I heart fall so much is because cooler weather means it's time to get cozy in a cute sweater. I think sweaters have to be one of my all-time favorite clothing items.
Here are just a few of the sweaters I'm crazy over at this very moment:

Ribbed Shrug Sweater, from Banana Republic

Parisian Hooded Duster, from Free People

L.A.M.B Cashmere Cardigan, available at Nordstrom

And with that, I wish you a Happy Sweater Season!

Loving...

...these photos from jade0307 on deviantART.

Just My Imagination

Where'd You Go

Definitely check out her gallery for more stunning photos.

To Russia, With Love

I found this cute manicure set at Paper Source a few weeks ago. I can't help but think of Amy, my beautiful sister (in-law), who just moved to Russia with her family. I feel like it's been way too long since we saw them last, and who knows when we'll see them again? Hopefully it's sooner rather than later. But for the meantime, maybe it will help me miss her less if have a cute reminder of her in my purse. I think this sweet little Matrushka would do the trick.

We love you, Amy!

Have a great weekend

pumpkin, originally uploaded by jwlphotography.

This photo is absolutely the cutest thing I've ever seen. If it doesn't start your weekend off with a smile, I don't know what will. Hope you have a Happy Weekend!

Check out jwlphotography's photostream for more fantastic photos.

More Than You Ever Wanted to Know, Part II

Here's a picture of me and my bestest girlfriends when we ran into choreographer

Shane Sparks on our LA Girls Weekend.

P. S. I mis s you ladies!!!

Here's the second installment in the series meant to help you get to know me better. For last week's post, and a full explanation see here.

1. My favorite ice cream is Ben & Jerry's Phish Food.
2. I had two knee surgeries (one on each) to tighten up my kneecaps. I used to dislocate them often during my dancing years.
3. I have really dry skin.
4. My mom always thought I'd grow out of it, but I'm still a really picky eater.
5. On that note...the first time I ever ate a salad of my own volition was when I was pregnant with Hudson. That, in itself, shows how much I love the kid.
6. I have small feet, so I can usually find sweet deals at shoe sales.
7. I get nervous while playing/swimming in large bodies of water, because I imagine little fish nibbling at my ankles. Ugh.
8. I hate running. I can guarantee that will never change.
9. I am a champion sleeper. I love taking naps, and I definitely know the value of a good night's sleep. Not to say that I ever get one. Does it even exist after one becomes a parent?
10. I'm very non-confrontational. The first time I had to fire someone, I was so upset about it that I broke into a stress-induced rash all over my face which lasted over a week.

Well that's it for this week. Hope you have a delightful weekend. See you back here on Monday!

Carambatak Design

Rebecca

Lately, I've been admiring the artwork of Norwegian artist Annette Mangseth. She's the designer behind the Etsy shop Carambatak Design. It's filled with the loveliest original artwork, prints, stickers, and postcards. All of her characters are so whimsical and delightful. I absolutely adore the beautiful ladies with the printed hair, and her work on vintage book pages is simply stunning.

The Heart Collector (left)

Under My Wing (right)

If you can't get enough, check out her shop, or her Flickr.

{All images from Carambatak Design}

Tile Tattoos

One of the drawbacks to renting is that you have severe decorating restrictions...no painting, wallpapering, or any other DIY projects for that matter. I found these tile tattoos that will help add some personality to my kitchen.

Get them here.

Story Time

I'm always on the search for new, fun books to read come storytime. Hooray for this this great site dedicated to finding great childrens' books! Thanks to Just One More Book, my search has become infinitely easier.

It's got a little paragraph about what makes the book good, and then a more in-depth review is available on podcast. It's so organized, and easy to navigate. You can still find that you're looking for even if your kid is like mine and enjoys climbing and/or jumping on you anytime you're at the computer. Take a look, and add something new to storytime tonight.

Rice Bag Pillows

Check out these rice bag pillows from CB2. The reverse side is velvet, in case you need more versatility. These pillows would add a little texture along with an exotic vibe to your family room.

Spooky Bouquet

I love the Spooky Bouquets featured on Martha Stewart's Halloween Idea of the Day section. What a fun way to add some sophistication to your Halloween party. Plus, it's a deviation from the traditional black/orange combo, which is always welcome.

Check out Martha Stewart for more fantastic Halloween ideas.

{Photo from Martha Stewart}

Fall Hosiery

In addition to managing the Handbags Department at previously mentioned retailer, I also managed the Hosiery Department. Part of my job description entailed wearing hosiery daily. It was kind of a drag in the summer, but I loved it in the fall. Nothing adds texture and personality to an outfit quite like some cute legwear.

This year, my very favorite style, The Deco Lace by DKNY (pictured at left) is virtually impossible to find. You can bet I'll be waiting impatiently for the next delivery. {And if I can get my hands on these tights, you'd better believe I will be wearing them proudly with the dress from my previous post.}

Some other fun alternatives this season include the Nordstrom Herringbone, and the always classic DKNY Fishnet. If you're brave enough to try some "sweater tights", these would be really cute with a black pencil skirt and a sweet little cardigan.

Happy Shopping!

Love That Dress

I first saw this dress in the October issue of Lucky, and I have to say I was a little taken aback when I saw that it's from Chadwicks. I think my Grandma shops at Chadwicks...not to say that my darling Grandma doesn't have great taste. It's just that we don't usually shop at the same places. I might have to reconsider, because this dress is absolutely adorable. It's so sweet and feminine, and very affordable!

Definitely remember this one for those upcoming holiday parties.

{Ahem: And for all my friends with the plethora of dental graduation parties next year...keep it in mind!}

Happy Friday

Orange mood, originally uploaded by Pensiero.

I'll leave you for the weekend with this beautiful photo.
Check out Pensiero's photostream for more amazing work.

Don't Forget...

1. Don't forget that it's Fleet Week. If you're in the Bay Area, go enjoy the festivities. You can bet we'll be there!
2. It's also the Italian Heritage Parade in SF on Sunday. I think they also have an Italian car show at Washington Square...so check out the cars while you're waiting in line for breakfast at Mama's, then watch the parade as it goes by!
3. Time's running out if you still need to register to vote. In CA, your application has to be postmarked by the 20th.
4. Cold & Flu season is upon us. Time to get your flu shot. We're scheduled for ours on Monday.

Bat-O'-Lanterns

This weekend, Hudson and I are going to attempt to make these cute Bat-O'-Lanterns I found in October's Family Fun Magazine. Wish us luck!

More Than You Ever Wanted to Know

Lately I've seen a lot of bloggers doing "100 Things About Me" types of posts. I know that some of you who read my blog do know me personally, but there are a lot of you who know nothing about me save what you read here. So for those of you who don't know me, I'd like to give you a better idea of exactly what I'm made of. And hopefully for those of you who do know me, you'll get a little entertainment out of this. I am changing it up a bit though; I'm going to break it up in to 10 weekly installments so as not to overwhelm you in one fell swoop. Plus it'll give you a little reading material while I'm off for the weekend. So with no further explanation, I give you

More Than You Ever Wanted to Know about Me:

1. My fingers are double-jointed.
2. I have actually never owned an iPod. I use my husband's all the time, but I've never had one of my very own. I think I'm the only person I know in this very predicament.
3. I like Hamburger Helper. I know, I know. But I do...I can't help it.
4. It drives me crazy when anybody but me does the laundry. If I didn't do it, it wasn't done correctly. Perhaps a bit of OCD?
5. I have no desire to create a scrapbook. Ever.
6. I'm completely blind. Seriously. I can't see the big E.
7. I first went to college intending to be a pharmacist.
8. From the age of 5 - 15, I was really into competitive Power Tumbling.
9. I can't sing whatsoever. I think I may actually be tone deaf.
10. When I was teaching dance, my students had a holiday performance. Just as they were going onstage, one of my girls told me she needed to use the bathroom. I thought she was just nervous and told her she had to go onstage. She had an accident during her performance. I still feel really bad about the whole incident.

Birthday Designs

Here are a few new additions to my shop today.

Hope you have a great Thursday!

Oh, and P.S. I'm the featured shop on the SF Etsy Blog today. Check it out here.

A Few Favorites

I'm feeling a little tired and uninspired today (that's a bad combination). So I'll just share a few of my new Etsy Faves with you:

Marinade had one of her neckties on the front page the other day. I love it. It's perfect for those chilly days ahead.

I'm totally getting this for my front door. From TastySuite.

If I had an appropriate place to wear this beautiful Esme Crown, I would buy it in a heartbeat. From whichgoose.