neatloaf

Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink.

2012-02-10T12:41:00.000-08:00

I've got H2O on the brain, mostly because a water main burst in my building and we have been without water for two days. (Thank you to Emily for letting me stay in her cozy house with my tiny pup). That's all well and good, unless you feel like brushing your teeth, cooking, going to the bathroom, showering, washing your hands, or sustaining your own life force. It's moments like this that we learn 1. we are incredibly wasteful. The amount of water we had to purchase in order to flush just once, was absolutely mind-boggling. And 2. we are spoiled brats, myself included. Which brings me to my discovery for the day, which I am torn on. Please comment as you see fit. My discovery: Boxed Water.

I know, I know. The packaging design is absolutely impeccable, and I admire this company's drive to eliminate plastic bottles from the industry. Boxed water promises sustainability and 10% of their profit is donated world water relief foundations. They seem to be an incredibly world-conscious company, and their design is just swell, but I guess what it all boils down to is -- why do we need boxed OR bottled water. On-tap filters and Siggs bottles would eliminate ALL waste. Catch-22? Or not at all? You decide.

Linzer Hearts

2012-02-09T11:57:00.000-08:00

image from Pink of Perfection

I make linzer cookies just once a year (if that) -- the roasting and processing hazelnuts deters me from pulling out my cutters more often. It is not a difficult recipe, though, and the hearts look oh-so-cute. It is a perfect Valentine's Day cookie and if you haven't tried baking your own, you should! Wilton has a traditional set of cutters that would make an adorable bridal shower gift, perhaps with this apron. And R&M makes a version with doggie shapes!

Here is how Martha Stewart makes hers:

Ingredients:

o 1 1/4 cups whole hazelnuts
o 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
o 2/3 cup granulated sugar
o 2 large eggs
o 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
o 2 cups all-purpose flour
o 1 teaspoon baking powder
o 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
o 1/4 teaspoon salt
o 1 teaspoon lemon zest
o Confectioners' sugar, for dusting
o 1 cup seedless raspberry jam

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Toast hazelnuts until skins darken and begin to split, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a clean dish towel, and rub vigorously to remove skins; discard skins. Place nuts in a food processor; pulse until medium fine.
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat butter and granulated sugar at medium-high speed until light and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add eggs; beat until smooth, about 3 minutes. Beat in vanilla.
3. In a large bowl, combine flour, hazelnuts, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and zest. Add to butter mixture; beat to combine, about 1 minute. Place in freezer until very firm, about 30 minutes.
4. Liberally dust a clean surface with flour, and roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 3-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out seventy-two hearts. To make top halves of cookies, use a 1-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out centers from thirty-six of the hearts.
5. Transfer cookies to prepared baking sheets, and bake until golden brown, about 8 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack until completely cooled.
6. Lightly sift confectioners' sugar over cookie tops. Spread about 1 teaspoon jam on each of the bottom halves, and sandwich both halves together. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Wooden Toy Love

2012-02-08T11:36:00.000-08:00

It's the heirloom quality of wooden toys that really sets them apart. Forget that plastic stuff. Here are some of my favorites:

Organic Wood Alphabet Blocks by Little Sapling Toys

Rainbow Stacker from Land of Nod

Musical Instrument Set by Soopsori

The Perfect Coffee Mug

2012-02-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

This happened over the weekend --

So now I am searching for a replacement mug, but I didn't realize how attached I had gotten to the particular one I used each day. It has to be just right -- tall, straight-walled, not too dainty, and needs to hold at least 12 ounces. I'm down to two contenders for the joy of holding my daily cup of coffee (with one sugar and extra cream).

Le Creuset Stoneware Mug, in fennel or cobalt, $12

Large Mug, in opaque white, Heath Ceramics, $34

Remember this post on making that perfect cup of joe?

My Trip to Uwajimaya

2012-02-06T16:15:00.000-08:00

Uwajimaya Grocery & Bookstore is pretty much the most magical place in Seattle. I could spend hours in this place, just looking at craft books, washi tape and special food packaging. I swung by because I was in the International District, dropping off our Milk & Bookies donations for the Denise Louie Education center. I was delighted to find that Uwajimaya is only a block away. If I can't go to Japan any time soon, then this is the next best thing. I would have my birthday party there if I could. Wait a minute...!

I don't know what this book was about, but I loved it:

eek!

happy little snacks:

Color explosion!

Funday Friday

2012-02-03T12:37:00.000-08:00

This is what's on the agenda for me today, other than slaving away at my wedding favors (pictures to come in a few months!) Sunny days make me feel super creative, so I'm fully caffeinated and ready to be inspired.

And oh my, please take a look at this adorable Little Printer from BERG that I found while exploring the delight that is Something's Hiding in Here. This little guy makes me want to squeal. I wonder if it would work with the iPad?

Hello Little Printer, available 2012 from BERG on Vimeo.

Other goodies to get your weekend creativity flowing:

Make a Secret Love Message for your Valentine.

A gorgeous studio tour with Sandra Juto.

Before & After: Joanna Goddard's Bedroom Makeover.

Pink is the new pink. From Say Yes to Hoboken.

What's in your toolbox, Lotta Jansdotter? From Design*Sponge.

Happy Groundhog Day!

2012-02-02T16:04:00.000-08:00

How come I can never remember which way it goes if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow?? I like the silliness of the tradition, I watch the movie each year, and I always wished my birthday was today -- just for fun.

Grumpy Groundhog by Mamakopp, $9

Extreme Tiny Groundhog by Suami, $35

Groundhog Mail by Mamaroots, $5

This + This = LOVE / Living Room Furniture

2012-02-01T12:18:00.000-08:00

I have a few pieces of furniture that could use some love! Here's what I'm thinking:

1. Skinny Laminx Pillow for my Crate and Barrel Cameron Sofa
2. Skinny Laminx Fabric for my vintage foot stool.

Images pulled from Skinny Laminx and Crate and Barrel.

Crocheting Cousins

2012-01-31T06:00:00.000-08:00

Anna and Emily

I wanted to write a special shout-out post about my crafty cousin, Anna, who visited Seattle last summer to help me with little Henry. She taught Henry to crawl that week, and on a quiet afternoon at the shop, I taught her my Modern Granny Square technique. Anna had knit a bit and sewn some, but never crocheted before. She is the first student of mine to not only catch on immediately, but complete her granny square afghan with such vigor.

Anna's squares in progress

Completed afghan (approximately 4' x 6')

It didn't stop there -- Anna continued to follow patterns online and even create her own. Every so often, I'll get an email or text message with her latest, and I'm completely blown away. In under six months, my cousin has created more intricate work than a lot of professionals do. Nepotism? Naw...ok, maybe :) But I really want to share some of her work, and show that anyone with a little time and patience can create something wonderful!

What a cute hand-made hook holder, Anna.
Also notice the blue pouch made by Slide Sideways? We've got some at Assemble ($18)!

Futurama's Bender hat

Red Bull logo pillow

Clyde the Alligator (a birthday gift for Henry)

Inspired? Take my Granny Square class and get going!
&
Check out our guest post on Crocheted Coasters by France of Bananafish Studios.

An Evening with Lisa Dupar: Author of Fried Chicken & Champagne

2012-01-30T09:21:00.001-08:00

I have mentioned my love for this cookbook before, in my entry on Summer Cuisine, so this weekend was an exciting treat. On Friday night, Emily and I were lucky enough to attend a tasting, signing and chat with Lisa Dupar, restaurateur and author of my favorite cookbook, Fried Chicken & Champagne at Queen Anne Books in Queen Anne. A bit of wine and a taste of her excellent Cherry Pop Tarts (page 211)--on sticks for easy snacking!

I got Christian a little Valentine's treat as well.
Lisa was a delight, with great advice for business owners, chefs (pro and amateur) and tips for writing and publishing. Hopefully these will come in handy for Emily and I in the future, knock on wood, wink wink. And we both got our copies of Fried Chicken and Champagne signed and ready for the kitchen.

We followed up the evening with fried chicken salad, burgers and cocktails at Paragon, down the road. I highly recommend picking up a copy at Queen Anne Books, I'm sure they have signed copies waiting!

Dealing with Bad Neighbors

2012-01-27T13:22:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me has heard my ongoing saga of the hell-on-orthopedic shoes who lives in the apartment below my condominium. As a chain-smoking, air-freshener-drenching, and lying busy-body of a "neighbor," she is hardly deserving of the word. Not only have we spent hundreds of dollars on air filtration systems and spent hours sealing behind cabinetry with heavy-duty caulk and foam in order to not breathe her concoction of tobacco smoke and chemicals, but we have also filed several complaints to our board members who are hesitant to take further steps (other than two or three infuriating mediations). Non-smokers have very few rights, but neighbors DO have rights. Right?

Comic courtesy of Jeff Mumm

I have been trying my hardest to count to ten when the stress of this issue has reached a boiling point, and calmly drink tea or run or take my dog for a stroll or bury my head in a pillow, but it's very hard. Michelle suggested a lovely episode of This American Life called Neighbors which, despite being entertaining, gives some people just a tad too much credit. Not everyone can have Mr. Rogers as their neighbor, but what do we expect out of them in general?

sigh.
What are your experiences with bad neighbors? How have you handled them? What is your advice for staying calm when you feel powerless to create the home environment that you want?

More pastry love

2012-01-26T16:59:00.000-08:00

There are very few things I'm particular about, really! But baked goods is where I'll often draw a line. Pancakes cannot come from a box mix. Cookies cannot come from a refrigerated tube. And pie cannot start with a pre-made crust. Period.

Crust is so easy to make, and even a "bad" version of homemade dough is better than something prepackaged. Let me share my two favorite recipes and a few tips, so that the world may be a better place.

EMILY's PIE CRUST I
I use this crust for fruit or sweet pies. It makes two 10-12 inch rounds--enough for a top and bottom crust or two different pie bottoms.

Ingredients
2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
(a pinch of sugar is optional)
1/2 cup shortening (Crisco)
1/2 cup butter
4 Tbsp ice cold water

My Thanksgiving pies -- Pumpkin and Gramma's Dutch Apple

EMILY's PIE CRUST II
I use this recipe for savory pies, particularly for my chicken pot pie. It makes enough for two crusts.

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
3/4 cup butter (or lard)
6 Tbsp cold water

My chicken pot pie - mmmm

Directions for either crust recipe
Combine flour and salt in a bowl.
Cut the shortening/butter into small cubes and toss into flour.
Rock a pastry cutter through the flour/butter combo until you get coarse pea-sized crumbles.
Add water to the crumbles and mix until just barely combined.
Separate into two equal portions and pat gently onto a piece of plastic wrap into a ball shape.
Refrigerate for at least an hour before rolling out.

TIPS
--Use a pastry cutter (not a fork, your hands, or a mixer...see today's earlier post!)
--Do not overmix. The dough should be crumbly and loose. Once placed into plastic wrap, you can pat and shape the dough into a more cohesive ball. You should see chunks of butter throughout the dough. If it is smooth, creamy-looking or sticky, you have over-mixed.
--Keep the butter cold. It creates flakey layers.
--Roll out on a well-floured surface and dust your rolling pin in flour, too.
--Always roll dough from the center out to create your circle, shifting the position of the dough on the board so it won't stick.
--When your crust is rolled to the correct size, fold in half and then in half again to move to your pie pan. Place the corner of the folded dough in the center and unfold gently.
--I do not blind bake (par-cook the dough before adding filling). I just fork a few holes to let some steam escape.
--I prefer ceramic pie pans, versus glass or metal.

Ode to a Pastry Cutter

2012-01-26T11:53:00.000-08:00

photo courtesy of Reina Williams

Most kitchen-istas will tell you that if a tool only serves one purpose, it is not a good investment. I agree with a few exceptions, including the pastry cutter. I bake enough pies per year to warrant keeping one around. You have two options -- wood or plastic handle bar, and either flexible or stationary blades. (I like the feel of the wooden handle better.) Its sole purpose is to cut cold butter into flour to make dough that is perfectly light. Some people use their hands, but that will melt the butter, resulting in flat (not airy) dough. Or some cooks prefer the convenience of a food processor, which I think results in a very heavy (not flakey) dough. Convinced yet?

Stay tuned and I'll share my fail-safe pastry dough recipe...

House Portraits by Rebekka Seale

2012-01-25T10:42:00.000-08:00

It's not like I'm exploring the web daily for hidden treasures, but how did Rebekka Seale's marvelous illustrations stay tucked away and out of my site for so long? Anyways, I'm happy that I have her on my radar now, and hopefully one day my husband and I will purchase our first home so that Rebekka can do up one of these (custom house portraits) - woo wee:

Photos from Rebekka's Etsy Shop

Letterpress Valentine's

2012-01-24T12:16:00.000-08:00

A good letterpressed card is always worth the splurge. Here are a few new designs out this year that will make your someone's heart a-flutter :)

Bee mine card by Elum, $5.50

Heart you card by Maidavale, $3

With you card by Ink Meets Paper, $5

And for your cheekier side...

Hit that card by Pink Orchid Press, $4

Nice buns! by Eggpress, $4.50

Moonrise Kingdom and Happy Monday

2012-01-23T09:58:00.000-08:00

The trailer for Wes Anderson's newest film, Moonrise Kingdom, is finally out! I'm in love with everything he touches, and can't wait to see this one as well.

Need a bigger Wes Anderson fix? Check out these "Living In" posts from Design*Sponge:

Living In: The Royal Tenenbaums

Living In: The Darjeeling Limited

Living In: Fantastic Mr. Fox

Eating Well in Cold Weather

2012-01-20T11:06:00.001-08:00

If you don't live in the Seattle area, you may not have heard about how we handle giant snowstorms. Our technique for safety, snow removal, and city planning: none. The city and the surrounding areas grind to a screeching halt at even 2 inches of snow because we have very little resources to cope. I, myself, have been stuck on the top of Queen Anne Hill for almost a week, with a few breaks to trudge around in the snow and bring home wine and soy milk.

View from my dining room table

It's so hard to resist the comfort foods in the grocery store when the weather outside is cold. All I want is macaroni and cheese, creamy soups, warm cookies and hot chocolate. But being in a one-room condo for over a week, eating tons of unburned calories will make for a real perfect storm. I have vowed to myself to keep eating my lean, summer foods: garden salads, smoothies, and baked chicken with vegetables.

Here are some of my tips for staying on track:

1. Tea. TEA! TEA! TEA! Have it with every meal. Eating a salad isn't the most satisfying thing on a regular day, but with a cup of warm tea, it's a filling, homey meal. Pour in a splash of non-fat milk for bulk.

2. Avoid sugars. Ever notice how a glass of wine makes you want to eat a bunch of bread and cheese? Yep. Sugars do nothing but make you even more hungry. Focus on hearty proteins like peanut butter, lean meats, wild salmon and yummy vegetable omelettes.

3. Keep exercising. A walk (trudge) in the snow with your iPod is relaxing and so good for you! Refresh your TV muscles and catch up on your This American Life podcasts. A 45-minute walk in the snow can burn over 200 calories!

4. Record everything you put in your mouth to find your weaknesses. If you have an iPhone or iPad, I highly recommend my new favorite app, MyFitnessPal. I have never seen such a great (and free!) calorie counting app. It includes all Trader Joe's foods, plus homemade and obscure labels. It even subtracts burned calories from exercise and tracks sugars, fats and water. (My weakness is Malbec).

5. Make vegetables into comfort food. For my famous Rosemary Garlic Homefries: chop up small white or yellow potatoes into homefry-sized bits. Lay on tinfoil covered sheet pan, drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, garlic salt and rosemary (go easy on it, people). Bake in the oven at 325 for around 30 minutes or until potatoes are well-baked and browning. Enjoy! One cup is about 100 - 150 calories. Or, cover broccoli stalks with melted lite mozzarella and garlic. Perfecto!

Valentine's Day = Date Night

2012-01-19T12:53:00.000-08:00

My husband's birthday is pretty close to Valentine's Day, so we'll often celebrate them together with a great night out. I can think of one single date night we've had since Henry was born a year ago. It may just be the perfect time to hire a sitter and buy a new dress. Here's what I'm imagining...

Cabana dress by Madewell, $160

Suede wedge pump by Deena & Ozzy, $59

Gold bow necklace by By Boe, $58

And perhaps as a special Valentine's Day treat...these.

Spring Accessories from Forever 21

2012-01-18T10:19:00.000-08:00

Last week, I popped into Forever 21 because a friend of mine told me about their maternity line (it was pathetic, but perhaps I missed out on all the good stuff?). I didn't really find anything of interest in maternity, but I did bump into some fun and fresh spring accessories.

Colorblocked Weekender Coral/Cream - $34.80

Vibrant Southwestern Scarf - $8.80

Colorblock Weekender Black/Cream - $34.80

Leopard Geo Scarf - $7.80

Mayan hot chocolate

2012-01-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

Today is:

photo courtesy of Relish

Most of the country is covered in snow today! This is especially interesting for us Pacific Northwest folk, who don't see many white winters. Steep hills and icy roads have most schools closed and work cancelled -- yay! If you are inside today, it may be a perfect time to try this recipe for spicy hot chocolate.

Ingredients

4 cups milk

1/2 cup cocoa powder ( I used the Dutch brand, Droste)

1 teaspoon flour or 1 teaspoon Wondra Flour

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

3 whole cloves, crushed

1/4 teaspoon chili peppers, crushed

1 cinnamon sticks, broken up

2 teaspoons powdered sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla

1 teaspoon cornstarch (dissolved in 1 tablespoon of water) (optional)

or 1 teaspoon Wondra Flour ( dissolved in 1 tablespoon of water) (optional)

Directions

Sift the cocoa powder and flour.

Measure out 4 cups of milk. From the 4 cups of milk, slowly whisk about 1/4 cup of it, a little more if necessary, into the cocoa/flour mix until it becomes a paste. If you add milk too fast, you get clumpy cocoa. If that happens, use a hand blender to smooth it out.

When all the cocoa and flour are a paste (no more dry flour,) add the remaining spices (sugar, nutmeg, cloves, peppers, and cinnamon).

Heat the rest of the 4 cups of milk in a double-boiler or a saucepan over medium.

Add the cocoa/flour/spices mix to the hot milk in the double-boiler. Stir constantly to keep it from burning.

If you prefer a slightly thicker drink, you can add the optional cornstarch/water mixture now. Continue stirring on the heat until it's to your desired thickness.

When the cocoa is ready (about 10-15 minutes), strain the cocoa in a fine sieve to remove the cloves and cinnamon pieces. Then add the powdered sugar and vanilla and stir.

Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day

2012-01-16T21:13:00.000-08:00

Brand New Year, Brand New Show!

2012-01-13T12:31:00.000-08:00

If you are in the Seattle area tonight, definitely make a little trip over to Assemble Gallery & Studio where we will be debuting a new art collection by Jill Labieniec entitled, Castles In the Air.

“Childhood memories of attic treasures nestled away in dusty corners and piled high in cardboard boxes are the inspirations for this show. Each piece tells a story, some through lazy afternoon daydreams while others rely on the viewer to create a narrative of their own out of a simple object. This collection is made up of Gocco prints, a process similar to screen printing that uses a Japanese child’s toy to make detailed and sophisticated prints.” -J. Labieniec

We hope to see you there tonight! Stop by and have a sip and chat!

Lisa Congdon's 365 Days of Hand-Lettering

2012-01-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about Lisa Congdon's newest project -- a year full of letters! We are only on day 12 of the alphabet, but I'm counting along in anticipation. It follows the same format as her first 365 project, A Collection a Day. You can read more about it all here. It is such a simple concept, but Lisa has such an amazing eye. I think it's neat!

Chewbeads!

2012-01-11T09:32:00.000-08:00

You know how babies get all grabby once they start exploring the world around them (with lots of items ending up in the mouth). Well, these necklaces and bracelets were designed for mommies to wear, so that their babies could grab and chew on something safe and rubbery (as opposed to yucky metals or breakable plastics).

I would even be excited to wear these items regardless of being a mom or not. They come in a rainbow array of colors and offer the perfect pop of color to any outfit!

You can check them out at Chewbeads, along with other designs.

Images from Chewbeads

Best of 2011 & Goodies for 2012

2012-01-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

Assemble had some great holiday sales to report (yay)! We are now thinking about what to order/re-order for the upcoming season. What are people still asking for? What trends are on the horizon? Here are the top few products that definitely will be stocked up again soon!

1. Pantone mugs: Best seller of the year, by far. Tomato red and celery green sold out first. The new bone china versions made perfect gifts and now friends are returning to create collections. Hopefully Spring will bring us some bright oranges and violets.

Red/pink collection by Pantone

2. Uppercase Magazine: Our new favorite publishers from Calgary. These quarterly journals are coveted by anyone interested in art, design, style, and all things neat. Each volume is packed with stuff that will make your mouth water. Every issue just flew off the shelves and #12 is coming out any minute now!

Uppercase Magazine #12

3. Crewel embroidery kits by Tako Fibers: You know designers are doing it right when people keep coming back for more. Artist Emily Baier continues to launch new designs and her updated packaging reflects her success and thoughtfulness towards her business. There is nothing else like it on the market and we are always excited to see what is coming up next.

Special Guest Post! Crochet Coasters by Bananafishstudio

2012-01-09T12:20:00.000-08:00

We have a special guest on Neatloaf today! The lovely and talented France Wisniewski of Bananafish Studios is here to share some helpful tips on traditional crochet:

I have heard it said in many circles that crochet is making a comeback. This is not so very surprising to those of us who have enjoyed a longtime love affair with the yarn and hook. When I think back to how I began I can vividly recall the smell of my Grandmother’s home in Silverlake...johnnycakes and tea, balls of mismatched yarn and a #5 hook. She was a gentle teacher and I an eager student. Among my earliest lessons was the coaster. I loved the coaster because it was quick and I could complete them with one stitch.

Although my ability certainly grew over the next 30 years I still find myself making coasters. I make them while listening to podcasts and music. While my husband watches football, when I need a quick hostess gift or just because my hands need something to do. My very favorites are the basic circle, the small flower and the solid granny square. It’s always nice to keep plenty of these on hand. You can make them as colorful or as simple as you please. You will find the patterns attached below. If you are new to crochet you
can find excellent real-time tutorials on You Tube. Now go make some coasters!

Crochet solid granny square: the instructions are for 5 rounds. I only completed three for the coaster shown.

Round crochet coaster: in addition to written instructions you can also watch the instructor create the circle in a video.

Crochet flower is my own pattern which is essentially a variation on a few different flowers I have seen:

Ch 6, sl st into first ch to form a ring.
Rnd 1: Ch 3, work 23 dc into ring, join with a sl st in top of beg ch-3.
Rnd 2: Ch 5, work 1 dc into same place as joining, ch 1, * sk 2 sts, work (1 dc, ch 2, 1 dc) into next st, ch 1, rep from * 7 times, join with a sl st in top of beg ch-3.
Rnd 3: Sl st into ch-2 sp, ch 3, work (1 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) into sp, work 1 sc into ch-1 sp, * work (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) into ch-2 sp and 1 sc into ch-1 sp, rep from * 6 times, join with a sl st in top of beg ch-3.

Abbreviations:
ch-chain
rnd-round
dc-double crochet
sc-single crochet
sk-skip
st-stitch
rep-repeat
sp-space
sl st-slip stitch

If you are unfamiliar with these terms you can find basic stitch instructions here.

You can read more about France and her crafty endeavors on her blog Bananafishstudio.

Get the Gear: A Stylish Spot of Tea

2012-01-06T06:00:00.000-08:00

This was my latest post on Apartment Therapy! I enjoyed writing it so much that I wanted to share it with you guys.

via Apartment Therapy:

One of my New Year's resolutions is to start drinking more tea and less wine and coffee. Besides the health benefits, who doesn't love all of the stylish accessories that accompany a spot of tea? Here are some of my favorites for the new year. Who says resolutions can't be fun?

1. Tulips Tea Towel from Enormous Champion. Enormous Champion makes some of the cutest card, wood and fiber designs around, and I especially love this bright tulips piece in bright yellow and grey, $25.

2. After a bevy of champagne on New Year's Eve, try some of this Get Clean Red Herbal Tea from Republic of Teas, $10.50.

3. A quaint little Teapot Teabag Rest, to avoid that pesky saucer drenching. $3.95 from Crate and Barrel.

4. My favorite find of the year! (Well, all five days of it.) Ikat Mug from C. Wonder, $8.

5. Gorgeous vintage gold teaspoons from The Hope Tree's Etsy shop, $19.

6. Brighten up your teatime with a Le Creuset Demi Tea Kettle from Williams-Sonoma, $50. I'm partial to Dijon!

Images: As linked above.

TV for kids is TV for adults, too!

2012-01-05T12:28:00.000-08:00

I swore my kids would not be hooked on TV or at least not the typical characters. Andie shared her childhood favorite with me and Henry -- Charlie and Lola. It is sweet, funny and not annoying to watch!

Despite my best efforts, the second Elmo showed up on screen, Henry was hooked. Probably since he was six months old, he has been mesmerized by Sesame Street characters and the lovable Elmo. I now look forward to our morning ritual of cuddling in bed and waiting for Elmo's World. Not only is this the only down time I get during the day, but the Sesame Street writers are getting funnier and more current. It is not surprising that kid's television does better when the adults have a reason to watch too! The new episodes include celebrities such as Amy Poehler or Seth Rogen describing a new word. I laughed out loud when I saw this bit called "30 Rocks":

I also have a renewed appreciation for Elmo after seeing the documentary about the puppeteer behind the character, called Being Elmo.

2012 Pantone Color of the Year: Tangerine Tango

2012-01-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

How do you feel about the new 2012 Pantone Color of the year? I absolutely adore it, however I'm not so sure about their fashion pairing (Bellflower). Closest lipstick color available? My guess is So Chaud matte from Mac.

Midwest Charm

2012-01-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

My husband and I are approaching our sixth year in Seattle, after growing up together in the suburbs of Chicago. Seattle is a smart, vibrant, and beautiful city, but nothing compares to the Midwest spirit which can be found in die-hard Cubs fans, commuter trains packed with people reading the Tribune, snow plows a-plenty, and some of the best architecture in the world.

Vintage Chicago Cubs Collector's Card

Whenever I return for a visit, I am reminded how lucky I was to grow up in the middle. "It is the home of the one index finger wave, where city meets rural living and family means everything. This is the land where hard work, honesty, hospitality and diversity mix to create and fuel an alluring trait known as Midwestern charm." (quote by Callis, a Missouri-based marketing company)

I am realizing most of my posts are centered around things attached to my Midwest roots: baking, entertaining, general etiquette, and making things by hand. Here are a few of my favorites:

On making sure your houseguests are comfy and cozy -- Guest Linens

What's more Midwest than canning apples from your yard?

If I knew you were coming, I'd have baked a cake...

Mini quilts

Living Like a French Woman

2012-01-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

One of my New Year's Resolutions (well, pretty much every year's resolution) is to live like a French woman. The French know what they're doing in life, indulging in modest pleasures regularly and maintaining self control. Last year, I read a book called French Women Don't Get Fat by Mireille Guiliano which helped me begin to adjust the way that I think about food, life and style.

Ahh, the style. Almost every woman in France wears high heels, scarves or beautiful lingerie daily. I find that so inspiring. To get started, here's a fun video by Michelle Phan, about seven different ways to elegantly tie a scarf. Bonne journée!

New Year's Eve Roundup!

2011-12-30T12:55:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! We want to send a special 2012 greeting to all of our Neatloafers! Happy 2012!

Adorable confetti-bag invitations for your New Year's Eve Party from You Are My Fave.

New Year's Eve hair via Joanna Goddard.

Honey Rum Fizz!? Yes, please.

Perfect for a party: Madewell Film Noir Pumps.

My New Year's Eve date.

Glittery Sandwich Cookies via Anthology Magazine.

Pretty clock-counting, party decor from Martha Stewart.

Good discussions and noteworthy news from The Kitchn.

Have a lovely holiday weekend!!

Emily's Red Christmas

2011-12-29T12:02:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a lovely holiday with family and friends. I spent the week in Chicago which had an unbelievably warm December -- even though I was looking forward to the snowy Midwest! It seems our Christmas this year was filled with jolly red...how fun!

Along with a good old-fashioned red Radio Flyer, our holiday officially began with Henry's newest friend, Dennis:

Red stripey bunny

My favorite presents just happened to be red too:

Classic red TOMS

NY Times cookbook

Color Study mini locket

My cousin got married on the 23rd and the wedding was filled with red dresses, ornaments and cranberry cocktails. Out of the hundreds of baked goods, the most successful treat turned out to be the cherry almond breads, speckled with maraschinos. I even got a bright red manicure using OPI's "I'm not really a waitress."

Did your holiday turn out to be green...or gold, perhaps? What were YOUR favorite gifts?

Holiday Baking: Christmas Apple Cream Pie

2011-12-28T19:15:00.000-08:00

I took a wonderful turn from my usual holiday baking this Christmas, and abandoned the cherry pie for a new friend: Apple Cream Pie. From my Southern Pies book, by Nancie McDermott.

Here's the recipe:

Apple Cream Pie (page 82) from Southern Pies: A Gracious Plenty of Pie Recipes, From Lemon Chess to Chocolate Pecan

Pastry for a 9-inch single crust pie (store bought or homemade)

Filling:
2 pounds tart cooking apples, such as Granny Smith
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup heavy cream
3 egg yolks

Meringue:
3 egg whites
6 tablespoon sugar

Heat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9-inch pie pan with crust, and then crimp the edges decoratively. Line and partially bake the crust.

To make the filling: peel the apples, and then quarter them length-wise. Cut away the core portion of each apple, and then chop them into large chunks. Put the apples in a medium saucepan with 1/3 cup water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and cook until the apples are tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and mash them into a fairly smooth puree. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and salt, and stir to mix well.

In a small bowl, combine the cream and egg yolks. Use a fork or a whisk to stir them together and combine them until smooth. Add the egg yolk mixture to the apple filling and stir to combine everything evenly and well.

Pour the apple filling into the pie crust, and place the pie on the bottom rack of the oven. Bake until the filling is puffed up, fairly dry, and lightly browned, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove the pie to a cooling rack while you prepare the meringue.

To make meringue: in a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Increase the speed to high, and beat until the egg whites begin to thicken to the texture of cream. Add the sugar two tablespoons at a time, beating well each time, until the meringue is thick, shiny, and able to hold curly, firm peaks. Spread the meringue evenly over the cooked pie filling, sealing the edges to the crust completely, and then piling the egg whites higher in the center of the pie. Use a spoon to form curly peaks all over the meringue. Return the pie to the oven and bake until the meringue is handsomely golden brown, 10 to 15 minutes more.

Place the pie on a cooling rack on a cooling rack or a folded kitchen towel and let cool to room temperature.

And this is how it turned out(!!):

DIY Sparkles: New Year's Eve Sequined Bow Clips

2011-12-27T11:48:00.001-08:00

I have always wanted to go to one of those movie-esque New Year parties where everyone is dressed up in their fancies with pretty cocktails and kisses at midnight. Alas, I have not been invited to one as most of my friends (and I) are INFJs sitting at home in their pajamas drinking hot chocolate. But here's my way to fake it! Check out DIY instructions for how to make these cute sparkly bow clips on Momtastic via Say Yes to Hoboken!

Last Minute Gift Guide: For the Person You Have No Idea What To Get!

2011-12-23T12:04:00.000-08:00

Oh man, two days til Christmas! December 23rd is one of the busiest shopping days all year, and if you're like me, you will want to be avoiding all grocery stores, Target-type-stores and shopping malls. If are in need of any last minute giftees, here's a quick gift guide for inexpensive treats that are all available here at Assemble Gallery & Studio. We will be open today until six and tomorrow (Christmas Eve) from 12 - 3. Quick, quick, like a bunny!

1. Super cute Yellow Pantone mug from Pantone Universe. We have a variety of colors! All $15. Fill it with packages of hot chocolate (the awesome Swiss Miss kind with fakey marshmallows) and voila - gift!
2. Sherbet cotton pouch from Slide Sideways. I use mine to hold my makeup, but it could be used for everything from art supplies to a nice big change purse. $18
3. Cute DIY mechanical animals from Oh My Cavalier, $25. Create 6 cute animals with scissors and pins.
4. Sweet, handmade pin cushions in two sizes from Wooke, $16.
5. Beautiful and delicate nut earrings from Boris and Katusha (many styles available), $30.
6. Foxy tote from ThisThisThis! $18.
7. A print of your favorite distinguished animal from Berkley Illustration, $12.
8. Teeny, tiny, snuggly, cuddly hand-sewn acorn ornaments from Finkelsteins Toys, $8.
9. Badminton anyone? My favorite stamp set from Yellow Owl Workshop, $12. (We have ink pads too!) Stamp set - $12, Ink Pads - $5.

Joanna Goddard: Wine Etiquette

2011-12-22T13:30:00.000-08:00

I borrowed this adorable blog entry from the adorable Joanna Goddard! (Illustrations by Gemma Correll. It was too cute to not share. See post:

Today I'd love to share 8 fun tips for drinking wine! It's nerdy, but I like learning etiquette tips (do you?) and thought you might like to hear these fascinating wine dos and don'ts before heading out to holiday parties and romantic dinners. Below, I wrote out the tips, and the genius Gemma Correll illustrated them. Here goes...
1. Fill red wine glasses 1/3 full, white wine glasses 1/2 full, and sparkling wine 3/4 full.

2. Twist the bottle at the end of pouring a glass of wine, to prevent drips (and to give it a flourish!).

3. Cheers! When clinking glasses, make eye contact with the other person. Otherwise, according to French superstition, you'll risk seven years of bad luck (read: bad sex). You also should clink glasses individually with each person at the table without crossing anyone's arms.

4. If someone is toasting you (your wedding, your birthday, your general awesomeness), don't take a sip. Just smile and look humble.

5. Always hold your wine glass by the stem. Many people mistakenly think you only need to hold white wine by the stem (so you don't warm up the wine), but experts say you should hold red wine by the stem, too, so you can see its color and clarity, as well as to avoid smudging the glass with your fingerprints. Otherwise, wine snobs might call you a "bowl grabber"! :)

6. On the table, your wine glass goes to the right of your water glass.

7. While taking a sip, you should politely look into your glass. (And not at another person, if you're in the middle of a conversation.)

8. The host's duty is to make sure glasses stay filled. "My eyes go to empty glasses immediately," wine expert John Thoreen says. "It's a real radar thing for me."

9. Or happily forget all the tips above, and just eat, drink and be merry!

The Makerie / A Craft Filled Weekend

2011-12-21T10:07:00.000-08:00

While flipping through my Jan 2012 Sunset Magazine, I came across The Makerie craft retreat (April 19-22, 2012). You basically spend the whole weekend crafting against Colorado's Flatiron Mountains. In addition to the crafting, there's hiking and yoga. Plus, you get to stay in a charming little cabin! The cost is not something that I can work into my budget at this moment in my life ($970/3 nights), but it doesn't keep me from being inspired from afar.

2012 Calendars

2011-12-20T13:02:00.000-08:00

I could list about one hundred great calendars coming out for 2012. There are a few out right now that would make perfect last-minute holiday gifts.

Nikki McClure's "Inherit"
Available through Buy Olympia for $16

Mr. Boddington's Studio "Criminels du Monde"

Available online or locally for $25

Curious Doodles' DIY Embroidered Tea Towel Kit

Available on Etsy for $32

Moon in June's Mayan-inspired letterpressed "Twelve Months of the Apocolypse"

Available on Etsy for $25

White Danish Christmas

2011-12-19T12:59:00.000-08:00

Are you a fan of "Red & Green Christmas" or "White Christmas?" I don't know why I have compartmentalized Christmas into those two categories, but I have my entire life, and each is not without its charms. Keep in mind, I have completely made these up on my own and your idea of Christmas may be meshed. I just hope you don't have a blue one...

To me, Red & Green Christmas includes Charlie Brown, big fat colored lights, lit up plastic Santas, candy canes and bright wrapping paper. White Christmas has It's a Wonderful Life (in French), white twinkle lights, spritz cookies, brown paper packages and candlelight. I am a fan of the white Christmas, myself, and I found quite possibly the most beautiful and simplistic pictorial definition of my holiday dream. On the cute blog, From the Right Bank, I found this gorgeous Danish home, all decorated for Christmas. If you can take your eyes off of the beautiful, wooden floors for one moment, take a look at it's holiday charm. Love!

Christmas Cheer with Charlie Brown

2011-12-16T13:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday! I dare you not to bob along....

Chambray for him and her

2011-12-15T12:03:00.000-08:00

Chambray is back as of this fall (yay!), and should continue through next spring since it is such a lightweight and easy-to-wear fabric. I wrote about seersucker over the summer, and I'm so glad to see these classic casuals all grown up.

Pleat front chambray dress by JCrew, $132

Chambray Sunset Ex-boyrfriend shirt from Madewell, $68

The Hill-side chambray tie from JCrew, $83

Polka dot chambray shirt from ASOS, $50

For all you dog lovers...

2011-12-14T12:16:00.000-08:00

Stylist UK is featuring Top 20 Dogs Dressed as Santa today. I have a Jack Russell Terrier, so of course I'm going to say that the Jack Russell was cutest (2nd down). Here were my favorites. Check them all out on Stylist.

Images from Stylist

Emily's Picks for a Happy Holiday

2011-12-13T12:05:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure I've ever felt as stressed about the holiday as I am this year. Anyone else?? A combination of traveling, a busy work schedule and a to-do list a mile long, all while chasing a newly toddling one-year old, has really got me beat! Thought I'd share a few things that have made my holiday run a little more smoothly --

1. Amazon Prime. Free two-day shipping is seriously the way to go.
2. Woodsy soy candle. Very subtle and pretty.

3. Tiny Prints. I can't believe I used to hand-craft my Christmas cards. We went with a Rifle Paper Company design this year.

4. Gingerbread Spice Milk Chocolate by Theo. Mmmmmm.

5. Elf. I could watch it on loop all month.

Holiday Gift Guide: For Your Super Duper Hot Boyfriend/Husband Who is a Big Nerd at Heart

2011-12-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

Another gift guide! I just cannot contain my excitement. I'm not a fan of very stereotypical gift guides for men that end up giving them golf sets and flasks. I personally don't know anyone who would like or need either of those gifts, so let's hope you like my favorites a bit more!

1. Extra Strength Mistletoe from Dilley Brand's Etsy Shop, $10. What the mistletoe leads to is entirely up to you...
2. A snazzy herringbone iPad case from Mari Forssell's Etsy shop, $75.
3. Bookshelf Library Games from Restoration Hardware, $69. I love these. They look like books! And who doesn't love vintage board games? Actually, I tend to quit, but they are still fun!
4. Mistletoe Bow Tie from Forage Bow Ties, $68. If your guy doesn't know how to tie a bow tie, consider sending him over to Esquire for a bit of help.
5. Chocolate chip cookies. You CANNOT go wrong with this one. My favorite recipe is the good ole Nestle chocolate chip favorite. (Secret: for more cake-like, puffy cookies, substitute the baking soda for baking powder).
6. Whiskey Stones from Restoration Hardware. These keep whiskey cold without watering down the liquor. $19.95 for a set of 9 from Sur La Table.
7. Townie: A Memoir by Andre Dubus III (author of The House of Sand and Fog). Dubus recounts his violent early life in a series of Massachusetts mill towns in the 1970s. Rumor has it that a movie is in the works. $12 - $29.95 on Amazon.
8. Cozy moccasin slippers from J. Crew, $49.50. These last forever!
9. Great for lazy days, the Eames House of Cards from Design Within Reach, $45.

Link Love and Florence

2011-12-09T11:56:00.000-08:00

Quick note! Milk + Bookies is tonight at Assemble! Be sure to come by!!

We have been thinking about Florence for a Honeymoon. Have any of you ever been there? What are the highlights, and while we're at it, where did YOU go on YOUR honeymoon? I'd love to hear stories and suggestions!

Plus, here's is some link love for your weekend:

Everything on this site is a wonderful gift for your stylish man. If they aren't stylish, well, I'd be surprised if you were reading this blog.

Let's pretend we're rich and dream about Vintage Chanel charm bracelets!

I want this desk in my house.

Anyone who knows me well knows I'm an etiquette junkie. I just picked up one of these as a Christmas gift to myself!

An important read. Amy Reiter tells us why it's okay to not have children.

and follow that up with: 7 hilarious pictures of kids screaming on Santa's lap.

I love these shoe clips for the holidays.

Clothing My Little Gentleman

2011-12-08T12:11:00.001-08:00

I've spent a lot of time lately searching for cute outfits for Henry, who will be attending several weddings, seeing family for Christmas, and celebrating his one year birthday this month! It's true that most common stores (Target, BabiesRUs and the like) have better selections for girls than for boys. But look just a little harder, especially online, and you'll find TONS of amazing finds for your little gent. Here's the current outfit I'm working on...

Striped Crew Neck Sweater from Old Navy ($25)

Quilted Peacoat from GapKids ($40)

Herringbone Cap from Janie and Jack ($22)

London Boot from Livie & Luca ($49)

On My Radar: Thonet Bentwood Rocking Chairs

2011-12-07T08:44:00.001-08:00

In April of next year, my husband and I will be welcoming a baby boy into our lives, and for the past few months I've had rocking chairs on my radar. I'm sure most people think of these flumpy things when preparing a baby's room. My sister had one while raising 3 boys, and swears that it was the best thing. I'm sure it is for people who are solely interested in comfort. I (unfortunately or fortunately - depending on how you want to look at it) have a different agenda that lists style and design before comfort. I'm not saying that I don't want to be comfortable (comfort IS a close second), but interesting design must come first before I decide whether something is comfortable or not.

Although my search continues, I've been loving the Thonet Bentwood Rocking Chair (be it original or inspired by). You can read up a little on the history here. Hopefully, I will be able to test it out in the coming months. I have to find a nice and gently used one in the Los Angeles (or surrounding areas) first!

Image from maison et toi on 1st Dibs (www.1stdibs.com)

Image from Lonny (www.lonnymag.com)

Image from Thonet (www.thonet.de)

Holiday Baking -- Welsh Currant Cookies

2011-12-06T11:27:00.001-08:00

My family usually sticks to traditional cookies for the holidays: Italian biscotti, German spritz, and Polish kolaches. I'd like to add these Welsh cookies to our European mix. Here is the fun part -- you don't bake them in the oven, you cook them like pancakes! The result is a not-too-sweet and cake-like cookie that is unbelievably addicting and perfect with tea.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup sugar, plus more for sprinkling
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), cold and diced, plus more for cooking
3/4 cup currants
2 large eggs, slightly beaten
2 to 3 tablespoons buttermilk
Melted butter, for cooking

Directions

Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, zest, nutmeg and salt in a medium bowl. Rub in the butter with your fingertips until the mixture looks sandy. Stir in the currants. Beat the eggs and 2 tablespoons of the buttermilk together. Stir into the dry ingredients to make a shaggy dough, add more buttermilk if the dough is dry. Gather dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Roll the dough on a floured workspace into a piece about 1/4-inch thick. Cut into 2 to 3- inch rounds.

Heat a griddle or frying pan over medium-low heat. Brush the pan surface with butter. Cook the cookies until slightly brown and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Transfer to a rack, sprinkle with sugar and cool. Store in a cookie tin.

Photograph and recipe from Food Network

Holiday Gift Guide: For Your Awesome-Sauce Best Friend Who Has Amazing Style

2011-12-05T13:23:00.000-08:00

The holidays are here! I just love thinking up things to give people and pretending that I have the funds to accommodate. It's always great to dream, and hey, it's the thought that counts! Here are some ideas under $75 for your best-friends-forevers:

1. Sparkly, shimmery and fashion forward. FACE Stockholm nail polish in "Toast of the Town," $10 from J. Crew

2. I just grabbed up Grace Bonney's Design Sponge At Home. It is delightfully refreshing, for those of us who relish in all things DIY. $35 at West Elm

3. A Very She & Him Christmas on Vinyl! $19.98 from Amazon. I'm okay with Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward singing "Blue Christmas" anytime.

4. The Hill-side® Selvedge Chambray handkerchief from Madewell, $39. Need I say more?

5. Cozy Ecological felted slippers from ing00te's Etsy shop, $68. These are stylish enough to wear outside!

6. Rectangular Biscuit Tins from West Elm, $9 - $16. For craft supplies, etcetera! I love the dark coral.

7. Coolest kitchen accessory ever! The Willowherb Rolling Pin from Anthropologie. I have one at home and I LOVE it. Plus it doubles as decoration between bakings, $18.

8. The Color Study Locket from verabel's Etsy shop, $65. I would love to know the process she uses to create this piece. It is so fresh and fun, but intricate at the same time.

9. And last but not least, Compagnie de Provence hand cream from Madewell, $20. Do as the French do, especially in winter. Moisturize, moisturize.

It's almost here! Milk + Bookies

2011-12-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

We're so excited for our 2nd birthday party here at Assemble Gallery & Studio, and since it is December, we wanted to get into the giving spirit. On December 9th (Friday) from 5pm - 9pm, as I mentioned before, we will be having a Milk + Bookies birthday party! Complete with balloons, milk and cookies, plus lots of room for donated childrens' books. Watch the video below to get the gist:

Each book that we collect will be donated to the Denise Louie Education Center at the end of December. We are so excited to help out! I spoke with a Denise Louie representative and she mentioned that they are mostly looking for multicultural books for ages 0-5 in ALL languages including Chinese, Spanish, etc. (She asked us to shy away from any Disney or corporate character books). I picked a few of my favorites! We'd love to have even more feedback..and more books!

O-Check Designs

2011-12-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm a compulsive list-maker, notebook collector and sucker for grid papers. And now I'm in love with O-Check. Pretty please fill my stocking with these goodies! Here is what NoteMaker says about the design company:

Korean-based O-Check Design Graphics is the creator of a thoughtful and ever-changing collection of stationery that weaves unique charm into its’ highly original designs. O-Check is environmentally conscious, creating many of its products from recycled paper, natural fabrics, wood and soy ink....The name ‘O-Check’ is derived from the Korean word ‘gongcheck’ which translated literally means ‘a book with nothing inside’

Kraft Memo Pad -- "A Day for Me"

Notebook -- Recipe

Exercise book -- A5 --Squirrel V.2

Favorites / Christmas Gift Exchange

2011-11-30T08:27:00.001-08:00

My husband and I were in Omaha visiting family over the Thanksgiving break, and naturally my sister-in-law and I (being the girls that we are) have been sharing all sorts of stories and ideas. For years, I've been throwing around a Christmas gift idea in my head. I've wanted to put together a gift basket of my favorite things to give to friends and family for the holidays. The idea has always overwhelmed me because the total cost of let's say three of my favorite things can add up pretty quickly. Anyways, my sister-in-law has solved my dilema. She and her four friends are getting together this holiday to exchange one each of their favorite things. For example, they will each come to the party with their favorite things (x4), and exchange. They've set a budget of $15/person, and I think it's the perfect resolution to my somewhat elaborate idea.

Although, I may not be able to pull this idea together for my own group of friends this year, here are a few of my favorite items:

1/ 1.18" Stainless Steel Cookie Scoop (Sur la Table - $17) - Keep your hands free of cookie dough with this sturdy device! It's marked as an ice cream scoop, but I've been using it for years to scoop out perfectly portioned cookies.

2/ L'Occitane Sweet Almond Liquid Soap (L'Occitane - $24) - This generously sized hand soap is mildly scented and oh so gentle on your skin. I'm not a big fan of overly scented soaps, so this might be a nice option for sensitive noses : )

3/ Kiehl's Hand & Body Lotion and Liquid Cleanser (Kiehl's - see website for size and price) - The scents and formulations are so incredibly mild. Grapefruit is my favorite, and Coriander is a close second.

West Elm + Esty Holiday Workshop

2011-11-29T11:37:00.001-08:00

Three things we love around here -- West Elm, Esty shops, and events with a cause -- all rolled into one amazing holiday event this Thursday. Check out the West Elm blog to find your local store, participating Etsy shops and the local charity of choice. For our crowd of Seattle readers, your donations will be part of the Christmas tree given to the Ronald McDonald House.

See you there??

DIY Bright & Sunny Wedding

2011-11-28T14:24:00.001-08:00

We're back from our brief Thanksgiving holiday! (Sorry to leave you for a few days, but we were busy baking and cooking up a storm). I thought I'd add a little spring in our step today, as it has been rainy and gloomy all weekend here in Seattle. Check out Kate & Billy's lovely DIY wedding from Snippet & Ink that is one of my favorite inspirations. Bright yellow and gray and merriment and pies and cute couples, etc:

Photos by Jehna Raquel and Lindsay Thompson.

For more info and details about the wedding, hop on over to Snippet & Ink to check out the full post.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T08:09:00.001-08:00

Everyone have a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving, and instead of reaching for that second dessert, how about a lovely cup of tea (like some of my favorite tea blends shown below from Art of Tea)! You'll feel a whole lot better about life if you're not stuffed like a turkey.

Top left - Mandarin Silk
Top right - White Coconut Creme
Bottom left - Coconut Cacao Pu-erh
Bottom right - Butterscotch

Tea images from Art of Tea

Guest Linens

2011-11-22T12:36:00.001-08:00

My husband and I are hosting Thanksgiving this year for our Chicago-based family. This means extra bath towels, sheets and pillows all around! Here are a few of my favorite guest linens for an extra comfy weekend -- sure to make any traveler feel right at home.

Hotel Collection Microcotton Bath Towels
Each guest will need a large bath sheet, a hand towel, and a washcloth. We registered for several sets for our wedding and they still look like new! The microcotton is super soft and dries quickly. I like to use white for guests, although day-to-day we use charcoal gray.

Woodrose Hem Queen Sheet Set
I love these sheets from Target for our guests. Sweet and a little old-fashioned, but durable and easy to clean. 100% cotton is the way to go for bedding.

Martha Stewart Down Alternative Pillows

I love down pillows and throws, however they are not ideal for guests. These Martha Stewart standard size pillows are perfect, since they are hypo-allergenic and machine washable. I also think gusseted pillows sit better on the bed.

Ralph Lauren Cable Knit Throw

Oprah put this blanket on her "Favorite Things" list last year and I fell in love. A cashmere throw is way too luxurious for my modest home, but I got the cotton version in blue and now want one on every couch! This also makes a wonderful holiday gift, maybe with a favorite book or box of tea?

Happy Thanksgiving. And safe travels for all of our guests!

Gearing up for Thanksgiving!

2011-11-21T12:56:00.000-08:00

As I may have mentioned before in previous posts, I am the pie gal. I love baking pies (not necessarily eating them), so I love excuses like Thanksgiving to get me baking again. I get my glass of wine, my Billie Holiday on Pandora, and start up the oven.

However, this year I was thinking of trying something a bit new. I'm leaning towards personal desserts, as I have a bunch of mini pie dishes that I am eager to bake with. I found this option interesting as well! From Smitten Kitchen, Baked Pumpkin & Sour Cream Puddings. Yum!

Image courtesy of Smitten Kitchen

via Smitten Kitchen:

Yield: 7 to 8 half-cup puddings

Pudding
1 3/4 cups (from a 15-ounce can, 415 grams) pumpkin puree (unsweetened; not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon (2 grams) ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) table salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup (237 ml) whole milk
1/2 cup (118 ml) heavy cream
2 large eggs, lightly beaten

Topping
1 cup (227 grams) sour cream
1 tablespoon (13 grams) granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350°F.

The quickest method: In a medium bowl, whisk together all of the pudding ingredients.

For creamier, silkier pudding: Combine pumpkin, sugar, salt and spices in a food processor and blend for 30 seconds. Transfer to a saucepan and heat over medium-high. Once glurping and simmering in the pot, cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently. The mixture will thicken and get a bit darker. Reduce heat slightly and whisk in milk and cream. Off the heat, slowly whisk in eggs.

Both methods: Divide between 7 to 8 (I had just shy of enough to make eight 1/2-cup puddings) ovenproof 6-ounce pudding cups or ramekins on a baking sheet. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until puddings barely jiggle when shimmied and/or a knife tip inserted into the center of puddings comes out clean. Try not to overbake.

While they bake, combine topping ingredients in a small bowl. When the puddings are cooked through, transfer to a cooling rack on the counter and leave oven on. Spoon 2 tablespoons of sour cream mixture onto first pudding and use a small offset spatula, butter knife or spoon to quickly (it will get melty fast) spread it over the top of the first pudding. Repeat with remaining puddings.

Return puddings to oven for 5 more minutes, then cool completely at room temperature, about 1 to 2 hours. Chill until ready to serve. Eat with a gingersnap.

Do you guys have any other ideas? Mini pie recipes? Let me know!

Studio Stop: Mr. Boddington

2011-11-18T12:25:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while, I come across a little company that I wish with all my heart I could have created. Since that's impossible, I like to order as much of their product as possible and put it in my shop.

This year, my creativity crush is on Mr. Boddington's Studio: a nifty little stationery and design house based in New York City. Owned and operated by Rebecca Schmidt Ruebensaal (best name ever), Mr. Boddington's Studio specializes in handcrafted letterpress stationery and cards for weddings, holidays and other important occasions. Take a look at their inspiring studio tour on Brooklyn Bride if you have a moment as well!

Their new holiday collection makes me giddy. Here are a few samples that we have at Assemble right now:

I nominate that we bring back heartfelt holiday cards, written by hand with personalized notes this year. The charming Mr. Boddington can lead us.

I Believe I Can Fly -- Documentary

2011-11-17T11:08:00.001-08:00

Have you seen this insanity?! A group of fearless French athletes go jumping off of mountains and highlining between enormous spaces -- one man walks without a safety harness! I read about it here and have been thinking about it for days. As of yesterday, the entire documentary is available on the director's site for about $5. Breathtaking, really.

Jack n' Jill Natural Toothpaste

2011-11-16T07:58:00.001-08:00

Not sure about you, but I'm scared of that crazy blue kid toothpaste, sometimes with sparkles, that tastes like bubble gum. Is that really the best we can do for kids? Not according to Jack n' Jill Natural Toothpaste who's fruity flavors range from certified organic banana to certified organic blackcurrant.

I first learned about Jack n' Jill through one of my most favorite kid blogs/online magazines - LMNOP (based out of Australia). You can read more about Jack n' Jill HERE!

Photos from LMNOP

Baking Cookbook Wish List

2011-11-15T08:14:00.001-08:00

After reading several book reviews, I have narrowed down my wish list to seven must-have baking cookbooks. My current collection includes the Martha Stewart's Baking Handbook, How to be a Domestic Goddess by Nigella Lawson and the Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook, which I love. I found the following to have a mix of classic and novel recipes, enticing photographs, clear instructions, and pretty covers.

In the Sweet Kitchen by Regan Daley
Baking from my Home to Yours by Dorie Greenspan
Chewy Gooey Crispy Crunchy Melt-in-your-Mouth Cookies by Alice Medrich
Essential New York Times Cookbook by Amanda Hesser
Martha Stewart's Cookies by Martha Stewart
The Simple Art of Perfect Baking by Flo Bracker and Dana Gallagher
Pie by Ken Haedrich

What do you think...am I missing one of your favorites??

A Trip into the World of Scout Rentals

2011-11-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Jenn Blake of Scout Vintage Rentals a while back at Assemble. I soon received a lovely e-invitation to the Scout Launch Party in the Trophy Cupcakes party room! Holey moley! Come look at vintage furniture while eating cupcakes and drinking champagne? Yes, sir! Count me in!

Everything in the showroom down to the picture frames and books were available for rent for a special event or photo shoot, and it was lovely browsing around! I adored the library card description cards and raspberry champagne in sweet, fabric tied mason jars. Emily and I commented that a lot of the pieces reminded us of Dottie Angel! Check out some party pics below:

All photos by Mo Hines Photography
Scout is a cornucopia of all things vintage and adorable. They specialize in "providing distinct vintage decor, props, furniture and creative details to brides, grooms, photographers, event designers, event planners and more. The concept is geared toward quirky brides and grooms-to-be, photographers, event planners and stylists." -Scout Vintage Rentals

You can see a portion of her ever-growing collection online here, as well as commission Scout to find you a custom piece of any kind! (I may have her on the lookout for something that resembles a vintage lemonade stand for my soiree!) Plus, she will even style the pieces at your event, and get you set up with their swell sister company, Bow Tie & Bustle for event planning if need be.

I hope Scout flourishes, as this is such a creative, quirky idea. Good luck, Jenn!

Tonight!

2011-11-11T12:52:00.000-08:00

We are busy bees over at Assemble, so this will be just a quick post! Be sure to stop by tonight from 6-9pm for new work by Urban & Amy, in a brand new show, Next Time; The Dark Ages. Until Then. Plus, we're unveiling our brand new layout with more retail, which means more fun product for you guys!

Make sure to stop by tonight, we can't wait to see you!

Royal Typewriter by Urban & Amy

DIY Yarn Wreath

2011-11-10T12:48:00.001-08:00

Red and Tan Yarn Wreath by ItzFitz, $40

I really, really want to make a yarn wreath. It is a project I have been thinking about for almost two years, but have not had the time to execute. Simple and cheap, this wreath has endless possibilities for holiday and home decor.

Materials:

Styrofoam wreath form (found at your local craft supply shop for under $5)

Yarn (one skein of your favorite color)

Several pieces of felt, ribbon, or other embellishments

How To:

1. Tightly wrap the styrofoam with yarn. It will look better (although take a little longer) to completely wrap the form twice. Tuck the end in, tie off, glue or pin in place on the back.

2. Embellish with felt pieces, different colored yarn, or other doodads. Again, use whatever you might have at home. Here is a tutorial for making felt flowers.

3. Hang your wreath using some wide ribbon, a wreath hook over the door, or some of your extra yarn.

Have fun! I'll let you know if I ever get around to making my own. If you like this idea, but are struggling to find the time, look on Etsy for some readymade versions that range from $20-$50.

My Jewelry Philosophy = Simple

2011-11-09T08:35:00.000-08:00

My approach to jewelry is simple. I wear three pieces everyday 1) the Tiffany Beads (shown below) earrings, 2) Wedding band, 3) Engagement ring. On occasion, I might change out of my everyday earrings for one of my favorite jewelry designers - By Boe. Although, it's rare that you'll find me in anything other than my basics.

Here are some of my favorites. What's your philosophy on jewelry, and what are your favorite go-to pieces?

Top to Bottom: Tiffany Beads Earrings, By Boe Baby Bow Earrings, By Boe Wire Leaf Earrings, By Boe Alphabet Pendant (chain sold separately)

Reusable Fabric Wrapping

2011-11-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

It may not be a new idea to wrap a present using fabric, but Give Wraps by Chewing the Cud highlight the thoughtfulness that goes along with gift-giving for any celebration. The word "give" is printed somewhere in each design. Give Wraps are 28 x 28 inches of 100% organic cotton printed with soy based inks. To me, presents wrapped like these have an ease and cheerfulness that paper lacks (although I do love wrapping the good old-fashioned way, too!)

Give Cheer, $16

Give Thanks, $16

Give Warmth, $16

Here's a 30-second video on how to wrap with fabric, Furoshiki-style:

Planning your dream wedding

2011-11-07T09:46:00.001-08:00

I suppose the thing that they don't tell you when you're planning your dream wedding (usually before you have met the man of your dreams) is how much your dream wedding is going to cost. I have a bit of a different story...ever since I was a kid, I wanted to be a wedding planner. Not a bride, (although I wouldn't have complained) but the person who plans the bride's special day. I collected bridal magazines from the age of 8 and cut and pasted scrapbooks of what I would do for other people's lives.

I guess in some way, my tiny little kid brain realized that a dream wedding is best planned when using other people's money, because now that we're attempting to plan our own wedding, things have gotten a lot tighter.

I guess you have to choose the most important aspects of a wedding to you--the ones you want to make most memorable, and go ahead and live out your dream. Then, cut corners off the edges of other, less important areas. My focus is on printed materials. I am a graphic design nut, and have pretty much the greatest one there is on my side.

Christian and I had a portrait of ourselves drawn and painted by Ashley of Ashley G and Drew, which debuted on our Save the Dates.. She is an absolute delight to work with and captured our likenesses, creating a beautiful, quirky logo of our big day. PLUS, we get to hang the portrait (and preliminary pencil sketches) in our new home together.

As for other aspects of your dream wedding, pick and choose from the ideas below to help cut costs so that your most important ideas can come to fruition:

Affordable DIY Centerpieces from Martha Stewart

A list of tips from Loyalty Wedding

Young House Love's Backyard Budget Wedding (this reminds me of the barbecue wedding Steve Martin dreamed up in Father of the Bride, which ironically, I liked better than the actual one).

A very sweet video of a DIY wedding from 100 Layer Cake.

Got any more? Let me know!

How old are you? We're two.

2011-11-04T14:11:00.001-07:00

I'm so proud to present Assemble Gallery & Studio's 2nd Birthday Party event. It's not until December, but I don't think I can wait that long to talk about it! For our birthday, we will be having a Milk + Bookies event at the shop. I can't give too many details yet, as we are still baking them up--but mark your calendars for Friday, December 9th...otherwise known as the cutest, most amazing birthday party of all time! If you'd like to receive a snail mail invitation, and you live in the Seattle area, please email andie[at]assembleshop.com with your mailing address. Til then, check it out:

DIY Felt Garland

2011-11-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Fall leaf garland by Elsie Larson

How cute is this felt leaf garland? Super easy & super cute. Instructions and beautiful photographs come from Elsie Larson's blog A Beautiful Mess (which is bursting with amazing ideas, by the bye.) Simplified, you cut shapes out of felt then run yarn through the shapes and hang. That is pretty much it, although Elsie showcases her directions with much more style!

I would love to experiment with some other color combinations...I'm thinking peach, gray and cream. See my inspiration palette below. What colors might you choose??

Necklace at Pink Lemonade $33

Digital Print by Alyssa Nassner $20

Holiday Gifts: Monogrammed Napkins

2011-11-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

Last week, I received a West Elm holiday themed catalog in the mail (it has 2 glass owls on the front cover). A few small things grabbed me as I was flipping through, but nothing that I would want to A) own myself or B) purchase as a gift. When I reached the center spread filled with monogrammed linens, a light bulb went on in my head - monogrammed napkins for all (or at least for some)!

Center Spread from West Elm Catalog

West Elm's Cross-Dye Napkins come in a variety of colors with the option to monogram (the threads for monogramming come in some great colors too - see below). At $16/set of 4 napkins + $7 to monogram, I think this is a lovely (and affordable) gift.


Cross-Dye Napkins are on sale right now (11/2/11). Some colors back-ordered

If you're looking for other holiday gift ideas, check out Andie's post on Apartment Therapy HERE!

Artist Elly MacKay

2011-11-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am inspired and impressed by Canadian artist Elly MacKay, who cuts out her hand-made illustrations, sets them up in miniature theaters and takes a photograph. By playing with the layers and lighting, she creates moody, smokey, sweet, airy, and intimate moments that are nothing short of beautiful.

Process photographs courtesy of Elly MacKay

If you need a print of your own, and I'm betting you now do, check out her etsy site Theater Clouds.

Only on a harvest moon, 8x10 print, $18

Side by side.... 8x10 print, $18

Love & Photos

2011-10-31T12:04:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, my dad sent me a package containing a brand new hard drive. On the hard drive, was a collection of roughly 40 years worth of Super 8 films shot by my Grandpa. I don't know this side of the family well, so the experience of scrolling through and finding gems including my dad's first communion, kids' birthdays, even a few with me as a toddler in them, opened a whole new world of my family history.

What that made me realize was, that we (all of us) never take enough pictures. And we NEVER make enough prints. One hard drive wipe, and most families' photos would be gone forever. Are you backing up your memories? Making movies of your kid's first steps? Framing photos?

My favorite thing about the films was being able to see my parents young and in love. I want our kids to be able to have that one day too, so we set out to the Puyallup Fair take some engagement photos with our friends Jaqui and Travis of Jaquilyn Shumate Photography. (I highly recommend their services if you are in the market for some gorgeous photos). Here are some of the highlights:

Next stop, wedding!

Circle the Wagons! Roundup Time!

2011-10-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

One of my daily reads (blog-wise) is The Rockstar Diaries by darling Naomi and her sweet family. A few days ago, I came across this post, a giveaway for Pillows By Poppy. My, oh my. I fell in love! I think my favorites are definitely the tipis!

What a great idea! I love when people are uniquely creative! Speaking of uniquely creatives, here's a few links to start your weekend out right!

My latest house tour for Apartment Therapy, Michele and Ryan Tansey's Antiquarian Hideaway.

Halloween Treats from Assemble and Neatloaf on CNN!

I'm not sure how I feel about this being a video for Chipotle, but it definitely made me cry. Reject factory farming!!

I just got these in Spicy Cinnamon and I am in LOVE.

Sweetest AT Walker EVER!

Thrifting Tips from Elsie of A Beautiful Mess.

Birkiland Seal Blankets

2011-10-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

Oh, man. Aren't these blankets amazingly playful and cozy and wonderful?! I suppose only Icelanders could make seal pelts into a wild winter inspiration. Made of 100% Icelandic wool, these blankets are created by Vik Prjonsdottir for Birkiland, a company dedicated to authentic design.

And if these images aren't inspiring enough, here is the Birkiland manifesto (which is now also the Emily Manifesto!):

We believe that Iceland is unique

We believe that there is an increased need for understanding our past, our identity and our history

We love all the colors of the rainbow

We believe in the intense power of nature

We believe in quality

We believe that design will help create competitive advantage of the nation

We believe in love and respect for all things

We believe in learning from the past, look to the future and still enjoy today

We believe that our home should nourish both body and soul

(all photos and manifesto courtesy of Birkiland)

Twitter Twit

2011-10-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

@EmilyAGrosse #moderndilemmas

I have finally joined the Twitter crowd (semi-reluctantly) and could use some guidance. Here are my first questions:

1. What is the point of hash tags if everyone is making up random titles? Is it just to be witty?
2. Is there a minimum number of tweets per day or week that would prevent followers from being bored?
3. Are pictures and links as important/interesting on Twitter as they are on Facebook?

Some do's and don'ts.
Good advice for a novice like me.

What else should I know?

Hot Lunch

2011-10-24T13:54:00.000-07:00

I was a child of the dreaded COLD lunch. Every morning, I was handed my lunchbox and sent on my way to the school bus. I hated it at the time because I felt like I was getting a raw deal: there I was surrounded by kids eating pizza, chicken nuggets and potato chips, and I'm eating a tuna sandwich, a cut up apple and a bunch of nuts and chocolate chips thrown in a bag.

What I didn't know then, though, was that my mother did me a giant favor. I was a kid, I didn't have the capacity to make the best decisions about food, just to know what tasted good. If she had given me money to pick my own lunch, I guarantee I would be a lot heavier than I am today. Her trail-mix-esque cold lunches taught my body to react to grease and sugar negatively, shaping my eating habits for adulthood.

Take a look at this info graphic (click here for a closer look) from Good. Is this not the saddest thing you have ever seen?

To learn what you can do to shed light on this problem, and help come up with a solution, go to SustainableTable.org and take a look at the Back to School section.

What Do You Do With Your Mixer?

2011-10-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

We just received our FIRST wedding gift yesterday (thanks, Mom!). The Majestic Yellow, KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer. I'm so excited! At first I thought this was just for pastries, but then Emily informed me that I can make PASTA and SAUSAGE with different attachments! Wha???

So I'm really interested--what do you do with your Kitchenaid mixer? Tell me your fun stories about using different accessories, because I don't really know much about it! Plus, I'm very excited. Leave me a comment!

Folk-y Cross Stitching

2011-10-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Folk motifs are IN. Handmade accessories are IN. Modern cross stitching is IN. Etsy is a no-brainer to find gift ideas combining all three. Best listings so far:

Golden Triangle Pendant Necklace by GammaFolk ($35)

Cross Stitch Folk Badges by Quiet Hare ($6)

Ukranian Folk Motif by Skrynka ($17)

Green on Green Folk Earrings by The Pin Pals ($15)

Jurianne Matter - Dutch Designer

2011-10-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

This was one of those random finds. You start on one blog, and three blogs later you find something completely awesome. I came across Jurianne Matter a few weeks ago, and I absolutely love what she's doing with paper. THIS Shine lantern (featured above) is one of my favorites, but if you check out her website HERE, you'll find so many other wonderful paper objects.

Photos from Jurianne Matter's Blog

Fall Crafting Ideas

2011-10-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

I am hosting Thanksgiving this year and looking for some special "homey" touches to add to my decor. This pumpkin & gourd embroidery pattern (and other adorable fall motifs) comes from Wild Olive by Mollie Johanson:

Free downloads!

And I'm considering making a pair of felt slippers for our holiday house guests, and Martha has the perfect pattern:

How-to by Martha Stewart

My cousin surprised me with these adorable crocheted candy corns to add to my Halloween decorations! I am debating stringing them up in the kitchen, or putting them in a basket on the coffee table. Cute, huh?

You can follow this pattern for a similar plushy treat.

Manic Monday: 15 Must Haves for Fall

2011-10-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, this Babble post says for mom, but I'm not really sure why you have to be a mom to wear these fabulous pieces for fall. I'm in love with pretty much every style, especially these high-waisted jeans. Check out this Babble post via Liz from Say Yes to Hoboken.

Our Last October event!

2011-10-14T14:48:00.000-07:00

It has been one busy month at Assemble Gallery & Studio. So much so that it took me nearly all day to get this blog up! If you are in the Seattle area, and can make it, I highly recommend coming in for the show tonight.

We have got new goodies galore, like Pantone Universe, Sapling Press and Nourishing Notes. Plus brand new prints, art work and accessories from Wonder Thunder.

Come out tonight from 6-9pm for a Halloween extravaganza! We've got candy, jack o'lanterns, and No Witches Allowed, a collection of silk-screening and stitchery by Meagan Hall and Sasha Barr of Wonder Thunder.

Emily's out of town, so come keep me company! See you there!

Map Style

2011-10-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

Maps have been "in" for a while -- vintage Paris maps, modernized local maps, wrapping paper and wallpaper -- and I vote YAY. Just when I think the map style is getting old, someone comes up with a fresh, funny, or sweet new version.

I love this NY print of a hand cut silhouette-style map by Famille Summerbelle.

Or what about these quilted maps by Brooklyn-based Haptic Lab?!? My wish list now includes one of Chicago.

Up, Up and Away!

2011-10-12T09:40:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Alissa over at The Goods Design blog posted HERE about these ginormous balloons earlier this week. Never mind sending me flowers. I want a BIG balloon with pretty metallic tassels from Geronimo Balloons.

Photo from Geronimo Balloons

Recipe Finder

2011-10-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm loving SuperCook -- a website that directs users to online recipes (such as Martha Stewart or Epicurious) based on ingredients you have at home. Got chicken, potatoes and an onion? Make soup! And when you find a good one, pass it on. Here are three FREE downloadable templates for recipe cards. Free AND cute?!? Yay.

Triangle recipe cards from The Small Object

Free template by Love vs. Design

I heart MY food templates by Scissors.Paper.Wok

book soup, anyone?

2011-10-10T13:09:00.000-07:00

It's a dreary day here in Seattle. In defense of rainy days, I always try to make a list and stick to it. Being productive is the ultimate weapon against getting low.

Speaking of lists, on yours should be tomorrow's awesome book signing with Leanne Prain at Assemble Gallery & Studio. Bring a photo or postcard for the Photo Feelism project! Event is free, fun and full of treats and surprises. Come in between 6 and 9pm! Or for the full three hours for all activities.

Tonight, however, what are your plans? Mine involve a nice Hot Toddy and a good book. I am in the middle of Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer, about a boy who loses his father on 9/11. The book is told from a child's perspective, which I'm especially fond of (most likely due to my childrens' writing major). I would also most definitely recommend Room: A Novel by Emma Donoghue. This one is told from Jack's perspective: a boy who (for a reason unknown to the reader) lives in a 7ft x 7ft room with his mother, from which they cannot leave.

What have you guys been reading? I'm up for some recommendations ALWAYS. And let me know what you think of the above two if you've experienced them!

Crosspost: Hidden Treats at Seattle's New West Elm

2011-10-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

Apartment Therapy

We just collapsed at home after a delightful night out in the South Lake Union neighborhood of Seattle, where the brand new Seattle West Elm home furnishing store was born. At over a whopping 15,000 square feet, the shop is the first in Washington and been long anticipated by the interior design savvy.

At the helm is visionary and creative director, Vanessa Holden, (former Editor-in-Chief of Martha Stewart Living) who oversees all creative aspects of the West Elm brand including catalog, website and store environments.

Walking through the pristine and untouched store, customers may notice that displays seem as if they are glimpses of the every-day, captured in still life. Each display subtly conveys several different manners of approaching each piece. Mixing, matching and re-envisioning are at play in every vignette in the store. Each crevice appeals to a different type of customer, from playful and lively in the kids' section (but what adult doesn't love a bright yellow desk lamp?) to elegant and thoughtful, with hand-stitched sari textiles, and gorgeous, suede sofa sets.

Also notable: an art installation from local artist, Justin R. Lytle, plus a floor-to-ceiling, self-sustainable plant life installation wall.

There is not enough time in the day to discover each secret treasure that is waiting in the new Seattle West Elm. Had there not been so many eager guests at the launch party, I would probably still be there, discovering secret tea cups hiding behind cookbooks or agonizing over which style shower curtain to take home with me. The store [opened to the public yesterday.] Get on over there (2201 Westlake Avenue) and discover for yourself.

Images: Andie Wurster

Nursery Mobiles

2011-10-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Baby mobiles have made a stylistic come-back -- now popular in paper and felt, giving nursery rooms a punch of color and sweetness. Here are a few of my favorites:

Airplane Mobile by Cactus + Olive, $36

Themis Mobile by The Future Perfect, $29

Bears and Bees Mobile by Catmade, $57

DIY Paper Boats by Little Lovely

Come on get happy tape!

2011-10-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

I posted THIS Happy Tape craft last Friday on Sparky & Marie. Do you have some Happy Tape? What cool crafts have you done (card making, gift packaging, etc.). We'd love for you to share with us!

Manners, manners please

2011-10-04T12:22:00.000-07:00

Heehee.

Anyone else a stickler for good manners? I wonder why too many people we encounter lack general consideration and etiquette -- from simple gestures such as holding the door open to more complicated interactions such as how to respond appropriately to bad news, for example.

I think the most stylish, sophisticated and lovely people are those with refined manners that know exactly what to say, and how, and when, etc. On that note, here is some food for thought:

1001 Rules for my Unborn Son.

Emily Post's Etiquette for a New World (18th Edition).

Tomato ketchup etiquette.

Advice for political or religious discussions.

Do you RSVP to Evites?

Embroidery Extravaganza: Hoopla!

2011-10-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Seattle Neatloafers (and any other travelers, really), you are so cordially invited:

Click to enlarge
It's a book launch autumn!! We are having another celebratory book launch and want all our friends in Seattle to come!

Join Assemble Gallery & Studio and author and crafter Leanne Prain for a visual talk, book signing, & fun craft project! We will launch the new book Hoopla: The Art of Unexpected Embroidery, by Leanne Prain.

Photo Feelism project: Add a tactile element to your photographs by embellishing them with embroidery. Add a rainbow to a landscape or moustache to a baby. Please bring a photo, postcard, or card to embellish.

When? Tuesday, October 11th 6-9pm, FREE EVENT!

Check out more details HERE.

Sit up straight! Comb your hair!

2011-09-30T11:31:00.001-07:00

That is what I've been telling myself lately. But it's just so COMFORTABLE to slouch. Especially when you're tired. Apparently it energizes you to sit up straight--my jury's still out on that one.

In the realm of making ourselves look better, check out this great hair tutorial I found over on Say Yes To Hoboken. Emily made fun of me for this one, but I'm loving it! However, where to find a light brown sock. I'm guessing one of those spongey scrunchy-like workout ties would work as well.

Start with your hair in a ponytail. Higher or lower depending on where you want the bun.

Take a sock that is roughly the color of your hair, snip off the tip, and roll into a donut shape.

Put your ponytail through the center of the donut, the same way you would put on a rubberband.Holding the sock in place with one hand, carefully spread out your hair around the curves of the sock until the hair feels like it's evenly distributed. For really fine hair you may need a mirror to make sure it covers all of the sock (that's also why a similar colored sock is a good idea).

If you have thin and/or shorter hair you can simply wrap the hair around the base of the bun and kind of tuck it in. If you have longer and/or thicker hair you might need to use a couple bobby pins or braid it first.

Oh my, I love it, because my buns are very sad. Very sad indeed. Give it a try!

Photos and tutorial from Say Yes to Hoboken.

Fall TV, Oh my!

2011-09-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Check out current tv ratings on Nielson

I have already been watching an embarrassing amount of TV this month, and this preview made me realize that I keep adding to the list of must-sees. I suppose there are a few shows I could cut out (The Rachel Zoe Project is a little indulgent) but I'm hooked.

I'm glad to see the return of Modern Family, Project Runway, Parks & Recreation, and Saturday Night Live. Sister Wives might be on my DVR... There is a new show I think is cute, funny and true: Up All Night with Christina Applegate and Will Forte. My husband and I enjoy the "new parent" comedy. I am more than looking forward to House (begins October 3rd) and Work of Art (begins October 12th).

Despite sounding like a couch potato, I also love TED talks online and a recent lecture called "The Conscience of Television" shows how trends in popular TV shows over they years have followed a collective sense of the nation.

Alright now...share your guilty pleasures, please, so that I don't feel so ridiculous as I watch Teen Mom. What are you watching??

Sparky & Marie on The Martha Stewart Show

2011-09-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

Watch The Martha Stewart Show on Hallmark Channel this Thursday (9/29) at 10am EST. Martha will feature Sparky & Marie stationery from Expressionery as one of the giveaways on a special birthday themed show!

Trends: In or Out?

2011-09-27T12:12:00.000-07:00

Downloadable Chevron pattern by The Fresh Fossil

Tired of the chevron zig-zags on everything yet? Do you think only tall thin women will be able to pull off the new maxi skirt?I limit my style and design trend picks to three, but I'd love to hear from you all about what you consider in, up-coming, or out. Are there blogs, magazines, or people you follow for current trending advice?

New (or re-newed) and upcoming:
-- Maxi skirts and men's wear for women
-- Indigenous design (native geometrics, totems, southwest influenced)
-- Purples and grays

Still cute for now, but I foresee a decline by next year:
-- Chevron patterns
-- Facets
-- Short, thick bangs

Really over, so let them go:
-- Owls, and most woodland creatures
-- Intentionally distressed furniture
-- Leggings with tunics

Dottie Angel: The Peachy Crafty World of Tif Fussell

2011-09-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday, everyone! Some special news first, a quick note to say that this coming Friday, Tif Fussell aka Dottie Angel will be at Assemble Gallery & Studio with her brand new book for meetings and chattings and signings. From 6-9pm, come browse the shop, have a spot of wine and meet Tif and Janine, owner and publisher of Uppercase.

Tif has already been here at Assemble, and has built a delightful little Dottie Angel world in the corner of the shop. Be sure to stop in and see it.

In the meantime, check out these fabulous kick-starters to your Monday morning:

Take a look at how the Crafts Department at Martha Stewart Living makes their iPad app videos, here.

I have a bit of a cold, and have been thinking of these for days. Learn how to make the best Hot Toddy of all time.

Jack Nicholson on My Nerd Boyfriend. Yes, please!

20 Super Fun Pet Costumes from Poppytalk via Babble.

Traditional Wedding Videos Need Not Apply

2011-09-23T13:03:00.001-07:00

We've decided to a do a wedding video on a whim! We've been looking up some fun examples for what we like, and found one for Elsie of A Beautiful Mess and her husband, Jeremy, below:

Anyone have any other sweet examples they can share? I love the super 8 ones as well, but alas, no access to a super 8 camera. I want to hear your ideas!

I also love the idea of having this (or something like it) as the video's soundtrack.

Fall style from Terrain

2011-09-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

It is shifting from summer to fall quickly and Terrain is my latest go-to inspiration for all things home. I might call it comfy farmhouse/fresh air modern. I want EVERYTHING. Is anyone else in love?

Carved Bird Doorstop $32

Mission fig candle $24

Spare Stripe Mug, in yellow $24

Handled Terrine $58

Avoca Plaid Throw $168

Simple Tomato Basil Sauce

2011-09-21T08:43:00.001-07:00

So Cal weather is starting to look a little bit more like fall (though I'm sure there are some hot ones out there). When the weather cools down, I love to be in the kitchen cooking something on the stove or in the oven. Last night, it was a simple tomato basil sauce recipe that my older sister uses. It's super easy and goes wonderfully well with a nice bowl of spaghetti.

Here's my sister's recipe:
1/4 cup olive oil
1 medium white onion chopped
3 cloves of garlic chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
1, 28oz can whole plum tomatoes w/juice
1/2 cup fresh basil chopped
salt and pepper to taste

1. Heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add onions. Saute until translucent.

2. Add garlic and saute for 1 minute.

3. Add tomatoes with their juice, parsley, basil, and salt/pepper to taste (I used a generous 1/4 tsp of salt). Cook on simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and blend with stick/hand blender to a consistency of your liking (smooth, chunky, or somewhere in between).

You may also find THIS recipe from The Purple Foodie helpful. She uses fresh whole tomatoes instead of canned. The ingredients are slightly different, so it might be fun to experiment and come up with your own creation! Be sure to share if you do : )

Photo from The Purple Foodie