The Golden Compass

I'm really excited that they have made Philip Pullman's The Golden Compass into a film that comes out in early December. I read the whole His Dark Materials trilogy (which includes The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, and The Amber Spyglass)and really enjoyed this unique take on fantasy. I like that they've chosen to cast Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig as well. The Golden Compass was a really exciting story and, from the previews, it looks like it won't disappoint. At least I hope not!

Pediped

These are some of the cutest shoes I have seen! They're also supposed to be really comfortable, so when Katie starts walking, I'll have to get her some.

Motherhood

I love being a mom, even though it's exhausting and can drive you crazy!! I noticed Katie was really quiet this afternoon and when I looked to see what she was doing, she was engrossed in one of her picture books, intently studying each picture and turning the pages slowly. I had to get a picture of it, even though I've already taken lots of pics of her "reading". It was such a cute little moment where she already seemed kind of grown up. I also had to get a picture of my little "sucker stick pirate". She will stick almost anything in her mouth these days, but she loves to chill with a sucker stick hanging out of her mouth. It gives me nightmares about her falling on it and choking, but it still looks hilarious!

Every Day

One ought every day at least, to hear a little song, read a good poem, see a fine picture, and, if it were possile, to speak a few reasonable words.

-Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Image via Flickr

Beautiful Pics, Beautiful Dress!

One of my favorite things to do is look at wedding pictures. I love seeing what colors people choose, the flowers, the cake, the art of the photography, and of course, the dress! I was looking through the photographs of Rebekah Westover, and I LOVE this wedding dress! Soooo beautiful and elegant. It makes me wish I could plan my own wedding at least once every year and do it totally different every time! Rebekah Westover does phenomenal work as well. Be sure to check out her photography blog here.

You Aint Much if You Aint Dutch!

I loved looking through this beautiful collection of Dutch ceramics and pottery. My maternal grandparents are from Amsterdam and I have always loved the beautiful, clean look of the "Dutch blue" and white. I have a few pieces like this in my home (presents from my Oma) and every time I see them, they bring back fond memories of being in her lovely home.

Darlybird Blocks

I was looking through some fun new toys for Katie on Darlybird and I loved this "Animal Alphabet Tot Tower". Stacking blocks are so much fun for babies (Katie loves to knock them down!) and I love the colorful pictures that would capture her attention as well!

Pregnancy Ticker

We're over half-way there folks!!

Patience

Hold on; hold fast; hold out. Patience is genius.

-Georges de Buffon

Image via Flickr

Waterhouse

I love the work of JW Waterhouse. I've been going through my art books lately and re-discovering my favorite paintings. Here are a few Waterhouse favorites. I love the vibrant color in some, and the moods that are evoked in all of them. His paintings are fascinating to me.

I See Your True Colors

I loved these fun, colorful photos from Housemartin. Color is too much fun, and bright colors are especially yummy!

I Need You

If you haven't heard the song I Need You, the latest Faith Hill/Tim McGraw duet, you must hear it! It's so good. My friends and I were talking about it yesterday while we made blackberry jam (yum) and we think it would make a great wedding song. It's so beautiful, and the video makes me tear up a little every time. It's such a simple video - they just sit across from each other and sing- but the way that they look at each other always gets to me. I think I'll play around a little and see if I can get the video on here, or at least a link to the video. I can't figure out how to add a video straight to your blog. Can anyone help me in that department? Here's the link:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REA2YYZumDY

TV on DVD

My husband and I have been watching the seasons of Alias on DVD lately and I totally got him hooked on the story! I love it. He can't wait to find out what happens next. I love TV shows on DVD - sure, it means you could end up sitting in front of the screen a lot longer than 30-60 min. once a week, but it's so fun to be able to go on to the next episode if you're dying of the suspense! Plus, you can go back if you didn't catch something, or just watch a great scene over again. Personally, I think it's the only way to go. As a matter of fact, I really don't watch that much television. I just catch up with the shows I want to watch later when they're out on DVD! We're exactly one season behind on Grey's Anatomy for that very reason. Here are some of my favorite TV shows to watch on DVD. (And just in case you're wondering, yes I still enjoy Newlyweds even though they're divorced. Maybe it doesn't make sense, but I do.)

Just In Case

Just in case you haven't been checking out the Inspiration Board Contest Take Two over at Style Me Pretty, I though I'd let you know it's going on this week!! If you have a creative entry of your own, you have through Monday to enter it. If you just want to look through it for some great pics, it's a really beautiful source for that too, and you can vote on your favorite to help pick the winners!

Dandelion Mama

I am SO excited that Tracy (from Dandelion Mama) is opening her own Etsy shop!! I can't wait for another diaper bag Tracy! (Baby #2 is on it's way, you know) It's just a shame that right when I discovered your blog, you decided it was time to stop! But, that's okay, because I have the Dandelion Mama Etsy shop to anticipate! Here's one of the bags Tracy made that I would love to have the second time around.

Family Fan

I like this unique take on the Family Tree - it's a fan instead! I saw this on Martha Stewart's website (they have a tutorial on making your own here) and I think this makes your geneology look so much more frameable so you can display it!

Hofbauer

I love Hofbauer glass for two main reasons: one, it's gorgeous, and two, it reminds me of my Oma's house. The German company no longer manufactures glass, but you can still find their products on Ebay. The candy dish and the vase are on my wishlist, and the salt and pepper shakers and tumblers would be fun too!

What Next?

Well, you've finished the 7th Harry Potter and you've found out the fate of Bella and Edward...so far, so now what to read? If you don't have a stack of books waiting to get to like I do, and are feeling a little bereft, may I recommend the books of Libba Bray? She has written two books in a series starring Gemma Doyle as the main character. And the third book is due out in December, so you have plenty of time to get up to speed. The first book is called A Great and Terrible Beauty, and the second book is Rebel Angels. The writing is really good and the story suspenseful...the story's even a little bit spooky at times, so beware reading alone late at night! I also get a kick out of Libba Bray's "About the Author" blurbs in the back of the books. You can tell she has a witty sense of humor. These books are what I would recommend next and it would give you something to look forward to in December rather than having to wait for Fall of 2008 to continue the saga of lovely Edward and obnoxious Bella. (I hope she's less annoying as a vampire!)

The Thorn & The Rose

But he that dare not grasp the thorn should never crave the rose.

-Anne Bronte

Image via Flickr

More space

We've been talking about moving lately. Our lease is up in December, so we've got a little while, but I've been looking around at town homes and houses and considering options....buy? (gulp), rent to own?, rent somewhere else? Yesterday evening we took a drive to see the government- leased housing for military families, but there's no way I'm living there. So depressing!! It would be nice to have a place of our own, but I'm not sure it's feasible right now with prices the way they are here in expensive Seattle. I would love more space though - especially with baby #2 making a scheduled appearance here at the beginning of December. I'd also love to be able to paint and arrange and decorate. I guess we'll keep weighing the options. For now, I will dream of a pantry in my kitchen...maybe one that looks as nice and organized as this one?

Josh Groban Concert!

Have to do a quick post on the Josh Groban concert Saturday night. It was fantastic! I've loved his voice and music for a long time now, but I never knew what a funny and entertaining person he is live! My husband took me for our two year anniversary and even he was raving about it afterwards! His favorite part was when the violinist broke into "Cashmere" by Led Zepplin backed up by the guitars. He was so excited, it made me laugh! He's been telling everyone about it. My favorite part was when Josh did some quick, impromptu karaoke and imitated Bon Jovi and Elton John. He's good! He had people laughing, and some out-of-control girl even collapsed in front of the stage when he talked to her! It was a really fun night. The only downside (apart from the crazy African lady singing for half an hour beforehand) was that we had to leave early to pick up Katie Grace. There were so many people there, it would have taken us hours to get home if we had stayed to the end! So, I'll never know if he sang "You Raise Me Up" at the end. Was anyone else there that knows if he did? I was waiting for it, but it didn't happen while we were there. Bummer. But it was a great show and well worth being squeezed in next to a very large man that took up all his seat and most of mine! Thanks for a great show Josh!!!

The Goods

Okay, so it's about time I posted about the swap that Jihan hosted!! Jen sent me some of the cutest stuff! Here's the breakdown: I got a lush bath bomb (I already used this and it was GREAT - thanks for giving me an excuse to take a bath!), some adorable scrapbook embellishments that I'm excited to try out, some wonderful candy that I'd never tried before -I'm assuming it comes from Canada? yum, and some super cute, personalized note cards!! A big thank you to Jen!!! I loved my package. It's so fun to get packages in the mail. I'll have to do this swap thing again sometime!

Have A Fabulous Weekend!

Tomorrow night is the Josh Groban concert here in Seattle and I am SO excited!!!! Should be an excellent weekend. Wishing the same to all of you!

The Color Difference

It's amazing the difference that color can make in a room! I am always taking note of the colors people use in their homes to create certain atmospheres and feelings. I mentally file the colors away for when I have free reign to paint my walls whatever I want. Here's an example of how changing the paint color drastically alters the feeling in a room. Even the dresser takes on a slightly different feel in each example. Images from Domino.

Mello Yellow

I've been seeing so many lovely yellow things around in blog world, I just had to collect them! Yellow seems to be the color of the moment. From LtoR & top to bottom: Paper by Elum, shower idea from Martha Stewart, necklace by Suzanne Felsen, another image from Martha Stewart, saw this on Style Me Pretty's blog, paper set from Kate's Paperie as seen on little lined notebook, and the dress was featured on Style Me Pretty as well.

Back To School

I used to hate the sound of those words, but now that I've been done with school for a while, I find myself actually missing it a little. I never thought I would say that! Or maybe I just miss getting new clothes and school supplies!! No, I do. I miss all of it. The smell of the classroom and brand spankin' new notebooks and pencils and erasers and crayons. I miss opening new books and being motivated to learn things I never would have studied on my own. I miss seeing friends and comparing fashion finds. I miss fall football games in new sweaters, and that spicy, crisp smell early in the morning on the way to class. Here are some of the things that would be in my bag on the first day of school if I were still a kid!

Etsy Contest Winners

I had a lot of fun looking through the posters of the Etsy contest winners. Be sure and check it out!

Suzanne Felsen

I was browsing through a wedding magazine and saw the most gorgeous earrings by jewelry designer Suzanne Felsen. Unfortunately, I couldn't find a picture I could post here of those rubellite, teardrop earrings (they're on page 8 in the earrings section on her website), but I found some other gorgeous pieces by her while I was looking! A little out of my price range, but fun to look at nonetheless.

Intriguing

Fishbowl on the wall anyone? I saw this on Target's website and thought it was an interesting idea. It's a space saver and a decoration! Now, I only wonder how much of a mess this would make when you took it down to clean it? It looks cool though.

Rosie Thomas

Lately I've been listening to the Rosie Thomas album When We Were Small. It is such a fun and easy listen. I highly recommend it. I used to put in this CD all the time in college when I had a paper to write. It kept me entertained and awake while not distracting me from what I had to write!

Bless You

If you're looking for a nice house-warming gift to give, or maybe a nice finishing touch to a baby shower gift, these books by Welleran Poltarnees are perfect. He's written several "blessing" books - A Baby Blessing, A House Blessing, A Travel Blessing etc. that are beautifully written. There used to be An Anniversary Blessing that I gave to my husband on our first anniversary, but I just read that, due to the volume of requests, he has written a new version, Happy Anniversary that is geared more for someone to give to a couple that is celebrating their anniversary. There are gorgeous paintings that he's selected (by various artists) to accompany each page and the pictures pair perfectly with the writing. A wonderful gift that can be enjoyed again and again.

Good News!

The Shabby Apple Fall Line came out today - Hooray!! You can check it out here.

Lovely Tables

There is something so lovely about a well-dressed table. It reminds me of holidays, weddings, and family dinners. The colors, the candles, the flowers, the dishes - everything combines to create a beautiful atmosphere, and that's all before the great food even arrives! All images from Martha Stewart except the first, done by Tiffany's.

Hello Atmosphere!

Love the moods created in these photos.

Sunlit Letterpress

I love the cute, simple cards on the SunlitLetterpress Etsy Shop.

Yummy Kitchens

I think I would be more inspired to whip up lovely concoctions in the kitchen if my kitchen looked like one of these from House and Garden! I can just see myself now...cooking up some pasta while listening to Lakme or some Josh Groban...

Word

Lately, I've been noticing more and more that singers coming out with new albums have Parental Advisory labels on them for explicit content. To this, I have to ask: WHAT'S THE DEAL? What makes these people think we want to listen to garbage language? It has been especially disappointing in the artists whose albums I have previously purchased, and was anticipating their latest. It takes no talent to throw expletives into song lyrics, and I, for one, would like to see it stop. So a word to you Gwen, Avril, Madonna, Linkin Park and all the others...I will not be purchasing any more of your albums as long as they have that little black and white label on the front that, to me, warns of ugliness on the inside and not lyrical and musical talent.

Swizzle Fo' Shizzle!

I love these bubbly, fun coasters from the Swizzle Factory! They're on my girlie wish list.

Alia Designs

Today is a paper love day! I am impressed by the lush and elegant invitations at Alia Designs.

Carrot & Stick

Here are a few of my favorite designs for notecards and journals from Carrot & Stick Press

Remembering James E. Faust

I was sad to hear that James E. Faust passed away on Friday. I was always so inspired by his words and loved listening to his voice. He was always special to me too because we both served missions in Curitiba, Brazil and I loved hearing him talk about Brazil with the same love that I have. "One of the greatest blessings of life and eternity is to be counted as one of the devoted disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ." -President James E. Faust

Here's remembering a very devoted disciple. You will be missed.

Weekend

Here's another favorite from Alicia on Etsy. Have a fun weekend everyone!!

Tooth Fairy Doll

These charming little Tooth Fairy dolls at belle and boo sell fast!

Retro Prints

I think these Queen Anne's Lace Retro prints from the Etsy shop "things are better with a parrott" are too cute!!

Two Year Anniversary

I can't believe that I've been married for two years already! It went by fast, but sometimes it didn't seem like it! Like when we were separated for one of those two years when you add up all the time Michael's been away with the military. Even though it's been hard to be apart so much, and we've had to learn and adjust a lot, I wouldn't trade it. Happy Anniversary Sweetheart! Thank you for making marriage so wonderful and fun. I love what a wonderful and dedicated husband and father you are. You're the best and I adore you!

Color Inspiration

These pics have got the creative color juices flowing!!

Double Dessert

These landmark dessert plates from Anthropologie are so fun. They each depict a scene from old Europe, so if you use these to serve after dinner treats, you and your guests will get dessert for the mouth and the eyes!

Whoa Bette!

I am love love loving these dresses from DownEast Basics. The Bette Dress is so simple, fun, and flirty! I'd like one of each (and at only $30 a pop, that's not SO unrealistic is it?) ;)

A River Runs Through It

Eventually all things merge into one...and a river runs through it. The river was cut by the world's great flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time. On some of the rocks are timeless raindrops. Under the rocks are the words. And some of the words are theirs. I am haunted by waters.

-Norman Maclean

Good Lighting

I have always been a big fan of good lighting. It plays such a major role in creating a great atmosphere in a room. I love great lamps and fixtures. It amazes me how much character they add to the decor. One of my favorite sections at the home improvement stores is the aisle where they have all the lamps on display and hanging from the ceiling! Here are a few wonderful examples of great fixtures with character from Home and Garden and Elle Decor.

Martina Concert

My friend Laura had an extra ticket to the Martina McBride concert on Saturday night and I was the lucky one that got to go with her!! It was so much fun. Little Big Town opened for her and they did a good job of keeping everyone entertained, and I was impressed at how many songs Martina sang! She went from one to the next, almost without pause and did an outstanding job. I was blown away by her voice in person. Thanks Laura for a really fun girls night out!! Next time we'll remember to bring our cowboy hats, boots, belt buckles, and wear our hair in matching braids! haha.

Changing Mat

I've been seeing this around lately and I am planning on getting one soon from Target. I love the idea of having more room to contain the kid you're changing! A must-have for baby #2!!

A Few More Favorites

I can't resist posting a few more of my favorites from the Inspiration Board contest I mentioned earlier!

Happy Nine Months!

Sweet Katie Grace - Today you are exactly nine months old! I can't believe you're already so big and doing so many things, but on the other hand, I feel like you've always been in my life. I don't remember what it was like without you, my sweet girl. You have brought so much joy and sweetness into my life and I just want to tell you how precious you are to me. I adore you my little Katie Lady!!!

Art Exhibit at Gallery4Culture

For anyone in the Seattle area, there's an art exhibit that opens today at Gallery4Culture(101 Prefontaine Pl. S. @ Yesler Way) and runs through August 31st that sounds interesting. An exhibit of the new work of artist Diem Chau will be on display, and I want to check it out! Especially after seeing the sculptures done with crayons! Fascinating. I don't think those will be on display, but it sounds like it will be a treat! The description is "history in miniature with portraits stitched onto fabric-covered dishware."

The Rest of Summer

Well, it's August folks. Fall is on its way....but not yet! I love fall, but I love summer too, and as a nod to this final month of summer, I'm posting my favorite paintings from Jack Vettriano that all seem to be on a beach somewhere. Here's to the rest of summer!

Playmat

I want this mat I saw on Tangled and True's blog for Katie's room!!! Cute no?

Serious Eye Candy!

I am loving the entries posted for the Inspiration Board contest at Style Me Pretty. You need to check it out, even if you aren't planning a wedding - it's just some fun eye candy to feast on! Here's a few of my favorite entries so far...

Katie's Birthday Cake??

I LOVE this cake. I'm thinking it would be fun for Katie's 1st Birthday!!

Love Walked In

I am two books down on my summer reading list that I posted on here earlier! I LOVED this book, Love Walked In by Marisa de los Santos. I loved the characters and it's just brimming with style and lovely imagery. It's a pretty fast read, and it will make you laugh and cry. (or is it just me that always cries?) Anyway, I highly recommend it. It's very well written.

Spunky Sprout

Spunky Sprout has some of the cutest kids stuff! They're fun and modern at the same time. There are so many different types of things available too - anything from textiles to furniture to storage items to bath toys! Here are some of my favorites:

Squirty Bath Toys

Fun,Reversible Bibs and Burpcloths!

Lola the Rabbit

Ann Kelle Designs

I love paper products and I just discovered the bold and vivid patterns of Ann Kelle. These cards are so much fun to look at and they would be fun to write in and send to people too!

Inspiration Board Contest

OK, I've mentioned before that I am still obsessed with wedding pics and ideas and I am LOVING the posts for the "Inspiration Board" contest at Style Me Pretty's site. So many great images and colors. It's AWESOME! You should check it out (even if you're not obsessed with wedding stuff like I am!)