tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82559572535976857492024-03-14T01:08:47.089-07:00Excuse me, DeerSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-55811798840731797832011-06-16T10:11:00.000-07:002011-06-18T10:01:22.923-07:00Ten Tie-Free Etsy Gifts for a San Diego DadOne of the beefs I've always had about Father's day is that it is always centered around gifts for the <span style="font-style: italic;">professional</span> dad. Back in elementary school we decorated ties, all the advertising is about golf, fancy briefcases and so on...<br />What if your dad doesn't even know how to tie a tie?<br />What if he thinks golf is for sissies?<br />What if he would use a fancy briefcase to store his sandy fishing supplies?<br /><br />My dad is a mechanic, an ocean-lover and a native San Diegan.<br /><br />And I'm sure there are plenty of people out there with a dad like mine, so I made my very own gift list with the things I would get MY dad.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Punny Fish Card</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/54213262/just-for-the-halibut-greeting-card?ref=sr_gallery_3&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=halibut&ga_noautofacet=1&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade%2Fpaper_goods"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 570px; height: 441px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.167401831.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Fish + Puns? Gold! You don't know how many Halibut jokes my dad has cracked over the years...<br />$3.75 from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/54213262/just-for-the-halibut-greeting-card?ref=sr_gallery_3&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=halibut&ga_noautofacet=1&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade%2Fpaper_goods">paperanniversary </a><br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Locally-Crafted Beer Candles </span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61227605/set-of-2-nag-champa-scented-soy-wax"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 570px; height: 570px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.190889136.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61227605/set-of-2-nag-champa-scented-soy-wax">Bottlehood </a>is a local company I see every Sunday at the farmer's market. They re-purpose endless varieties of bottles into candles, drinking glasses, vases and even lamps! I love the candles because they look like they're filled with beer.<br />$25 for two<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A Play on "Padres" Tshirt </span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75239348/padre-desde-2011-dad-since-2011?ref=v1_other_2"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 480px; height: 480px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.248488225.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> I have many a memory of my dad watching Padre's games, usually while my sisters and I bothered him to change it to cartoons. Instead of buying Padre-logo sportswear, this shirt has more of a personal edge, it translates to "Father since..." and the year is customizable!<br />$30 from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75239348/padre-desde-2011-dad-since-2011?ref=v1_other_2">PamelaFugateDesigns</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">His Dream Car</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75795153/1966-chevy-chevelle-124-scale-model-car"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 619px; height: 463px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.250333868.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />...in miniature form, of course. One year, in about 7th grade, my dad bought an old Chevelle as a project car. Red, just like this 1/24 scale model from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75795153/1966-chevy-chevelle-124-scale-model-car">classicwrecks</a>! This model is specifically painted to look like a rusted old wreck, which would be perfect because the only ride I ever took in that car ended in us pushing it to the gas station.<br />$37.50 from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75795153/1966-chevy-chevelle-124-scale-model-car">classicwrecks<br /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Catch of the Day</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69303691/marlin-fish-ocean-wood-sign-fishing?ref=v1_other_1"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 570px; height: 570px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.224074052.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> My dad is an avid sports fisher and would occasionally drag us girls to boat shows. Even though seeing fish with hooks in their lips was almost enough to turn me vegetarian, I still appreciated the dinners he made from them... How's that for locally-sourced food?<br />$69.00 from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69303691/marlin-fish-ocean-wood-sign-fishing?ref=v1_other_1">SlippinSouthern </a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Beer Towels for Cleaning up... Beer Spills!</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70209339/beer-lovers-towel-set-set-of-4?ref=v1_other_1"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 570px; height: 401px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.227855757.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> Towels are one of those things dad's (or at least my dad) just doesn't buy. He has had the same towels for YEARS. I should do him a favor and get him these beer-themed towels from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70209339/beer-lovers-towel-set-set-of-4?ref=v1_other_1">NestaHome</a>. $23.50 for a set of 4<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vintage Hubcap Clock</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62022231/1965-67-ford-falconfairlane-galaxie?ref=v1_other_2"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 619px; height: 615px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.193558591.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> I imagine my dad's dream garage filled with tools and muscle cars would have this clock in it. But I'm sure if it was his dream garage, there would be no need to keep track of time, he probably would be there ALL the time!<br />$ 42.00 from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62022231/1965-67-ford-falconfairlane-galaxie?ref=v1_other_2">8milecreekdesigns<br /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Beer Soap</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74880100/fathers-day-special-two-black-and-tan"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 397px; height: 432px;" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.246897806.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />When my mom's back was turned, Dad would say "Go get me a DaddyJuice!" and have us retrieve beers from the fridge for him. I think even my mom would approve of this beer though... it's soap!<br />2 for $14.50 from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74880100/fathers-day-special-two-black-and-tan">EthicallyEngineered</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fish Art Blocks</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74571327/dads-and-grads-sale-fish-sticks?ref=v1_other_1"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 570px; height: 570px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.246051545.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> When getting Dad anything in the art-realm, I try to look for something a little less hoity-toity then a hanging painting... These wooden art blocks are perfect! You can stack them and you get to mix and match between 14 different fish. Creator <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74571327/dads-and-grads-sale-fish-sticks?ref=v1_other_1">johnwgolden</a> is even having a father's day sale, 25% off all orders. $22 for a set of 7<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">And Finally... Another T-Shirt</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62282791/ship-in-a-bottle-tee-american-apparel?ref=v1_other_1"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 570px; height: 455px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.194424103.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> Dad, I love you but... BUY MORE SHIRTS! He seriously can wear the same 5 shirts for years and years on end. So for my final gift option, this ship-in-a-bottle print from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62282791/ship-in-a-bottle-tee-american-apparel?ref=v1_other_1">flytrap</a>. Talk about the gift that keeps on giving. And giving and giving and giving and giving, until I get him another t-shirt. That man DOES NOT clothing shop.<br /><br />I hope this list gave some gift inspiration for all those beer-drinkin', fish-lovin', car-fixin' dads out there! If you want to DIY a gift, check out my post from last Father's day, when I made a <a href="http://excusemedeer.blogspot.com/2010/06/i-fishes-they-so-delicious.html">fish-themed lazy suzan</a>. It's on his dining room table right now!<br /><br />Happy Father's day!<br /><br /><3 SamSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-5600478355939871512011-06-15T16:41:00.000-07:002011-06-18T10:03:54.137-07:00Introducing Mel C: My Vintage Peugeot Mixte BicycleI admit to being somewhat of an impulse shopper.<br />
I've been working on controlling the urges, but when I saw this vintage bike on craigslist, I couldn't help myself.<br />
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<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3383/5837919154_5ca0a03c1f_z.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3383/5837919154_5ca0a03c1f_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 413px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 619px;" /></a><br />
At least this time my impulse shopping ended up with a form of transportation!<br />
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<a name='more'></a> <br />
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Her name is Mel C, she's a Peugeot Mixte, circa sometime-in-the-70s. I am super excited to polish her and tune her up. Why Mel C.? Well, she's totally a <a href="http://members.tripod.com/%7Enec_3/pics/melc10a.jpg">sporty spice! </a><br />
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<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3263/5837362651_8a5f22ab3c_z.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3263/5837362651_8a5f22ab3c_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 419px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 619px;" /></a><br />
I've been learning more about bike repair from The Chainbreaker Bike Book.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://microcosmpublishing.com/catalog/books/2077/" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://microcosmpublishing.com/catimages/chainbreaker_lg.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 557px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 457px;" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;"><a href="http://microcosmpublishing.com/catalog/books/2077/" style="font-style: italic;">via Microcosm Publishing </a></span><br />
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</div>Which I totally recommend. It's great if the only thing you know about bikes is how to ride them. It even has tips on being a female in a male-dominated bike scene, which I appreciate because I know the only time I ventured into a bike shop (aside from the buddies that work next to me) I was pretty darn intimidated. All those tattooed bike guys should be a GOOD thing, if ya know what I mean...<br />
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Aside from that, I now have a bike worthy of the Tweed Ride! <span style="font-size: 85%;">(Sorry faithful mountain bike)</span> <span style="font-size: 100%;"><br />
If you haven't heard of a Tweed Ride:<br />
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Vintage Bikes +<br />
Vintage Clothes +<br />
Beards & Bowties=<br />
Mobile Awesomeness.<br />
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And I am a huge fan of beards and bowties, btw.<br />
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</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSi8VQocP0yMDZmn6nljeqeEnWdk6YQT_ybjwKq_4DWaUJ4vyadf4aEQAWSQD-aoWPQNsvJAfCpyD8mN-IuLPNwpk83zIvcnAb_msauMT_n-uCMZlaLkP8Lvjk7iVxQtzAZAqXn_Jcpmz9/s1600/TweedRide2010.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSi8VQocP0yMDZmn6nljeqeEnWdk6YQT_ybjwKq_4DWaUJ4vyadf4aEQAWSQD-aoWPQNsvJAfCpyD8mN-IuLPNwpk83zIvcnAb_msauMT_n-uCMZlaLkP8Lvjk7iVxQtzAZAqXn_Jcpmz9/s1600/TweedRide2010.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 476px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 620px;" /></a>That's something to look forward to this winter! I need to start collecting tweed... and perhaps a banjo.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ridingpretty.com/blog_images/tweed%20fall%202010/Rochester%20Tweed%20Ride%201%20.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ridingpretty.com/blog_images/tweed%20fall%202010/Rochester%20Tweed%20Ride%201%20.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 412px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 619px;" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">via </span><a href="http://ridingpretty.blogspot.com/" style="font-style: italic;">Riding Pretty</a></span></div><br />
Oh, the possibilities of a new bicycle. I'm imagining myself riding into the sunset wearing tweed skirt and sensible pumps, banjo slung over my shoulder. Tweed Ride, I await you!<br />
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Peace and Bikes,<br />
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SamSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-18489427407334476142011-06-15T14:21:00.000-07:002011-06-18T10:04:33.800-07:00Galaxy Dresses: Fashion that's Out of this World!Here one trend I am dying to DIY:<br />
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<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3538/5837613796_18f237d110_b.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3538/5837613796_18f237d110_b.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 301px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 578px;" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 78%;">Clockwise from left to right: Leather Fern Necklace <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/lab/cat-jewellery/item10051613.aspx" style="font-style: italic;">Natalie Brown</a>, Turquoise Dip-Dyed Hair via <a href="http://fuckyeahdipdyehair.tumblr.com/" style="font-style: italic;">Tumblr</a>, Christopher Kane Dresses, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/BLACK-SHATTER-CRACKLE-OPI-POLISH/dp/B004N3HCGK" style="font-style: italic;">Katy Perry for Opi nail polish</a>, Irregular Choice suede pumps via <a href="http://www.heels.com/womens-shoes/tea-and-cakes-turq.html" style="font-style: italic;">heels.com, </a>a hunk of turquoise, McQueen leggings, C. Kane tank top <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/104552" style="font-style: italic;">(net-a-porter)</a>, and <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/Womens/Accessories/Cosmetics/-Eyedust-in-Dragon-Scales" style="font-style: italic;">Lime Crime</a> Eyedust. </span></div><br />
Outerspace!<br />
Maybe my obsession stems from the fact that I have been on a huge <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doctor_Who">Dr. Who</a> kick recently, and as such, have constellations perpetually revolving around my subconscious...<br />
But regardless, I think I just really want the privilege of wearing the universe on my bum <span style="font-size: 78%;">(it's big enough!).</span> <br />
I love the look of printed stars and galaxies along with leather, velvet, and of course plenty of glitter. Yet at 200 bucks a pop <span style="font-size: 78%;">(just for the tank top!)<span style="font-size: 100%;">, <span style="font-size: small;">I don't think I'll get my hands on Christopher Kane's designer duds anytime soon.<br />
After scouring the web, I found some awesome cheaper alternatives to satisfy that cosmic craving:</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a name='more'></a> </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3432/5837096163_8f321fded6_b.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3432/5837096163_8f321fded6_b.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 374px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 572px;" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;"><a href="http://www.karmaloop.com/products.aspx?ProductID=88356&VendorCode=VOXKB" style="font-style: italic;">Burger and Friend's </a>"None Like it Hot" glitter dress $48, Antenna Galaxy</span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5232/5837096059_639db38037_b.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5232/5837096059_639db38037_b.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 410px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 572px;" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;"><a href="http://shop.blackmilkclothing.com/product/rainbow-galaxy" style="font-style: italic;">Black Milk's</a> "Rainbow Galaxy" leggings $75, Andromeda Galaxy<br />
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While I would die for those leggings, they are still a bit pricey for me. So maybe I should DYE for those leggings! Get it? Get it? Dye... <span style="font-size: 85%;">ha?</span><br />
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I'm currently researching the best way to achieve that galactic look... possibly a mixture of bleach, dye, glitter and screenprint ink?<br />
User cervy on Craftster accomplished some <a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=373706.0">celestial undies with acrylic paint</a>, but I'm not sure how well acrylic would do on leggings or light fabric.<br />
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I think I need to just dive into it and get some trial-and-error experience. Or should I say <span style="font-style: italic;">launch</span> into it? Blast off? Calling Major Tom? Alright enough astronaut references.<br />
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Though accomplishing a good outer-space DIY would be an achievement of <span style="font-style: italic;">astronomical </span>proportions!<br />
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Hahaha... ACK! *gets kicked off stage*<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYB2atsgtYOmFigkbSG4rr9F7bp4lUEkaqwUwZIM5rfzUsDM-xKbHKYEkE8Gcxdg9HWFIAhgPQfkrZCHDyq5aHBFDOC6stAS8Ag0NcqkSW8RewqtIYYBMbajqHe4fEbkHWQTvw5GxEHk/s1600/Andromeda-galaxy-photo.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br />
</a>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-89665585063875325102011-05-24T18:08:00.000-07:002011-05-24T19:10:08.322-07:00Blog Reborn!Imagine my blog bursting through the surface of the sea, gasping for air and spewing salt water.<br />IT'S ALIVE!<br />Floating towards an island, clinging to some driftwood, my blog thinks of all the possibilities of the future, a life renewed, released from it's watery prison of neglect.<br />It launches itself upon the pristine sands of the island's shore and, rolling over to face the radiant sunlight, embraces it's second birth.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />10 points for being overly dramatic</span><br /><br />Well here it is! I've decided to start blogging again. I'm not sure why I stopped in the first place. Last time I posted, I had pink hair <a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.wordpress.com/">and was on wordpress</a>. Now I have dark hair again (with blueish undertones!) and I have migrated to blogger. <span style="font-size:85%;">(All of my old posts are here too)</span><br /><br />I hope to be blogging a lot more regularly because I have decided that:<br />1. I have too much clutter<br />2. That clutter is mostly crafting supplies<br />3. I must therefore use up all of those crafting supplies<br />4. And document the craftyness upon the interwebs.<br /><br />I hope to open an etsy shop eventually too! <span style="font-size:85%;">(Sell things I make with my old crafting supplies to afford to indulge myself in new craft supplies. It's a cycle.)</span><br /><br />Here's a sneek peek of the projects I'm working on:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxRlHlFM9GnTPtb6s-7NX0UKDSEInTB42jmrNHM3OJb6d098MKJVx-h8rPD72GROtElowZunpJ2ZNa4GQKOQhDoP0Lu0P5Qbrn42BacDYTFdx0y8HlDcFlXJB9O2V87kqW8ImE2iupxE/s1600/_MG_2062.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxRlHlFM9GnTPtb6s-7NX0UKDSEInTB42jmrNHM3OJb6d098MKJVx-h8rPD72GROtElowZunpJ2ZNa4GQKOQhDoP0Lu0P5Qbrn42BacDYTFdx0y8HlDcFlXJB9O2V87kqW8ImE2iupxE/s400/_MG_2062.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610456288098637714" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">My disastrous workspace<br /><br /><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKOeVvuzvjLcV7H6v_rgu4jk5E0rnYHwwUuhgUAi8D34o3aGz4UURmFd2fLxfKcExNRL-fSHOaRqzV7xcCiTeLZpbm8zrlmA4FP9srHQB7S9eWhnwMOBccnO0hPj_ghrWpKkPvjGOiBw/s1600/_MG_2061.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKOeVvuzvjLcV7H6v_rgu4jk5E0rnYHwwUuhgUAi8D34o3aGz4UURmFd2fLxfKcExNRL-fSHOaRqzV7xcCiTeLZpbm8zrlmA4FP9srHQB7S9eWhnwMOBccnO0hPj_ghrWpKkPvjGOiBw/s400/_MG_2061.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610457695190947794" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHkDjuZlDtxQhyphenhyphenypoA2fkEPbrHZ4wLUaiCxJv9ttb6XOb08kiJKIzVtJvovrRMIyr0e3rEpeUEA1AFEdXUzdzBGvZEvm7PHxmAvJV6tPdM1eWe106NF66IiiNbLWOrwwwdqg7V6m6YHgQ/s1600/_MG_2041.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHkDjuZlDtxQhyphenhyphenypoA2fkEPbrHZ4wLUaiCxJv9ttb6XOb08kiJKIzVtJvovrRMIyr0e3rEpeUEA1AFEdXUzdzBGvZEvm7PHxmAvJV6tPdM1eWe106NF66IiiNbLWOrwwwdqg7V6m6YHgQ/s400/_MG_2041.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610457687683479522" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSuutes99PmMWWa71-68BcspWBV0M4-jKRLBF4MLAuPjzTYhZXZ4BzfUnc_eBMPYZW8kHpOx_xGLdnzRZKKHdGAXb9IiGdg7XSXAsRqPw1HPzj3FvPwWySP8B3N2KWuHb9GsqGsC9OZ8/s1600/_MG_2055.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSuutes99PmMWWa71-68BcspWBV0M4-jKRLBF4MLAuPjzTYhZXZ4BzfUnc_eBMPYZW8kHpOx_xGLdnzRZKKHdGAXb9IiGdg7XSXAsRqPw1HPzj3FvPwWySP8B3N2KWuHb9GsqGsC9OZ8/s400/_MG_2055.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610456280087949746" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_wKYpDFnG2F39weuasDbBnG2V8fgfTjuYDpouIFSImOrPr1iufZIKENqQ5IOr2OKWDumFAA04jtz2scKynWdG8zAjcqutilFZBVP3XrU1N5ecDQoOkM8Q6oUDDNJss1X7FT1vqLldPE/s1600/_MG_2057.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_wKYpDFnG2F39weuasDbBnG2V8fgfTjuYDpouIFSImOrPr1iufZIKENqQ5IOr2OKWDumFAA04jtz2scKynWdG8zAjcqutilFZBVP3XrU1N5ecDQoOkM8Q6oUDDNJss1X7FT1vqLldPE/s400/_MG_2057.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610456271813550018" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Pyrite, studs and feathers! </span><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzOqEIsGbO82yBweGV3z47mjtEHOeOZ2rX5JVjVnrpo2NZdliKBSjd3CJFVrHrmUsQboBxECC3ReJhCwm4wwOkwHmjzvmxEhnrlftEeDyHMzsyXLjZblZRpgcOhYR5gE0MQIfH4a__bA/s1600/_MG_2063.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzOqEIsGbO82yBweGV3z47mjtEHOeOZ2rX5JVjVnrpo2NZdliKBSjd3CJFVrHrmUsQboBxECC3ReJhCwm4wwOkwHmjzvmxEhnrlftEeDyHMzsyXLjZblZRpgcOhYR5gE0MQIfH4a__bA/s400/_MG_2063.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610456261500313826" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Extraneous <a href="http://www.google.com/search?q=pan+dulce&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a">Mexican Sweet Bread</a> Photo<br /><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;">So onward, into blogging success </span> I march! Join me, gentle reader, on a blogventure for the ages!<br />Huzzah!<br /><br /></div></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN22WmXMoknA9FDP1hKGjwavdL4OVxciY6nUI2GGsIN4l8Way_ao2S6AXCDfxH29PCWAL8ALjpxrboyUt5FgCMRjY0Zn82V0TY5sUJYLmIF85gAnOKWyibjOgSHPEVgs1W1orQDjlFkM0/s1600/_MG_2072.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN22WmXMoknA9FDP1hKGjwavdL4OVxciY6nUI2GGsIN4l8Way_ao2S6AXCDfxH29PCWAL8ALjpxrboyUt5FgCMRjY0Zn82V0TY5sUJYLmIF85gAnOKWyibjOgSHPEVgs1W1orQDjlFkM0/s400/_MG_2072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610456256347744418" border="0" /></a><br /><3 SamSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-62302249390519489022011-02-23T19:30:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:06:25.578-07:00Katy Perry + OPI = Love (and diabetes?)I love Katy Perry.<br />
<br />
I mean, her music is catchy and fun and everything, but the REAL reason I love Katy Perry?<br />
<br />
Let the following images demonstrate:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/5663/88284409.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/5663/88284409.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 578px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 403px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4136/4755659584_5fe22ec00c_b.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4136/4755659584_5fe22ec00c_b.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 228px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 406px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/4117/katyperrycottoncandydre.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/4117/katyperrycottoncandydre.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 375px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 350px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/5137711008_03fd88fca0.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/5137711008_03fd88fca0.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 281px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/5137109127_481e1f2576.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/5137109127_481e1f2576.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 255px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
My goodness, I don't know why I love it so much.<br />
Pastels and candy and kitschy pink flamingos and ridiculous latex dresses!<br />
I must have a sugar deficiency.<br />
But I LOVE it!<br />
<br />
I'm just glad someone out there can be like:<br />
"Ya know, I'm gonna wear a latex dress today. Now, should it be cotton candy or pink palm tree print... Decisions.. "<br />
As well as:<br />
"If I want to wear candy on my head and shoot whipped cream out of my bra, I will, by golly!"<br />
<br />
So wonderful.<br />
Maybe it's just a marketing scheme, but at least she always looks like she's having fun.<br />
Maybe that's why I think that Katy Perry > Lady Gaga.<br />
I mean, when you are wearing amazingly ridiculous outfits, you can't take yourself toooo seriously.<br />
<br />
Anyways, I somehow stumbled over the fact that OPI nail polish just released a Katy Perry collection.<br />
Observe in the following video:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/W1piNxgXJzI" title="YouTube video player" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I don't always wear nail polish but the colors are just 100% Katy Perry. Spot on.<br />
Usually celebrity lines of anything are nothing more that the person's face and name attached to a product, but these colors just seem so... her.<br />
It's like essence of Katy Perry in a bottle.<br />
<br />
Therefore I have broken down and bought a mini sample pack (only 6 bucks on amazon!) because I am convinced that I need to start up a kawaii/cotton candy/ bubblegum/ katy perry lifestyle once more.<br />
<br />
My hair is on it's way back to black anyway, and one of the benefits of that is I can wear crazy colors in places OTHER than on my head! Yay!<br />
<br />
Ok, must go now. I need to go stock up on cookies and glitter.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://cdn.buzznet.com/assets/users16/bejus/default/katy-perry-one-boys-promo--large-msg-122001627064.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://cdn.buzznet.com/assets/users16/bejus/default/katy-perry-one-boys-promo--large-msg-122001627064.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 583px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 438px;" /></a>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-84977511786330001522011-01-29T18:09:00.000-08:002011-06-15T18:07:04.312-07:00Tentacles on my Living Room Walls?<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I. Must. Have. This.<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8e2L6vTQH0ocpD2i46VSDDQl7yI2KEapI6CamJZINwL1NKtR-6QoGHMezjlCLP6Yf3uwaH3PZ3CaXM_DFxJh_vPF4d3QwvSc7utpJg1BbN-FGs0XRbVANuSbIFApZSwf7-OjB83XqXEuT/s400/210146_16Jan11_tentacle_emb_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567795948877582402" border="0" /></div><div><a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=370271.msg4353815#msg4353815"><br /></a></div></div><div>I came across this amazing piece of embroidery by <a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=370271.msg4353815#msg4353815">jemimah over at Craftster.org</a> while looking through the Hoopla Swap for inspiration. I have had 3 empty embroidery hoops hanging on my wall for like 13 months now, with no idea what to do with them. Nooooot annnyyy moooore!</div><div>I have no idea how I'll attempt to make my own version of this yet, but I'm excited for the challenge...</div><div><br /></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-78381900655885026542011-01-27T10:47:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:07:17.338-07:00I can haz business casual?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Z4tpPTokoRu0tHfjmOZpk1aCgK-vYZ6851-Yy9-m7WV8LxEIPBAawGomP_t0ITEATtpwAsNj-D7aPz_eLNYx92MOlzw4_4URsWHheZh3gLmWi-N0KB4-uVLmVKR7-M7oszsKxkmSv66s/s1600/5393095207_1fe3c5c603_b.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566940379827250418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Z4tpPTokoRu0tHfjmOZpk1aCgK-vYZ6851-Yy9-m7WV8LxEIPBAawGomP_t0ITEATtpwAsNj-D7aPz_eLNYx92MOlzw4_4URsWHheZh3gLmWi-N0KB4-uVLmVKR7-M7oszsKxkmSv66s/s400/5393095207_1fe3c5c603_b.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1w4fVzlvTTsUvHHQ-fqGJqvUlhnaj9J_hkAdNN0cqmm3nc9lAgYev48kicycMeE-COKWRJLWfSfL-17VUCUHjEylJgaCyXQsof306387Rv90HcMjh3cVHOWvd3PgiNjvkTtdxQADbna2s/s1600/5393095207_1fe3c5c603_b.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br />
</a> So this is my random attempt at doing "business casual".<br />
<br />
<br />
Backstory: After many hours staring off into oblivion, contemplating the "WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH YOUR LIIIIIFFEEE??" question, I decided that I needed to start looking into big-girl jobs for after I graduate (I have 1 year left at my university).<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
But, GAH!<br />
There are so many things you have to do like:<br />
Workshops! Internships! Mentorships! Career fairs! Career advising! More workshops! Resume workshops! This-is-why-you-suck-but-we-can-help-you-maybe workshops!<br />
And soon I found myself in that last workshop, with a very prim woman insisting that I learn how to dress <span style="font-style: italic;">business casual.</span><br />
<br />
Business casual?<br />
Bleh!<br />
But I thought I'd give it a try.<br />
The blazer is my roommate's, white shirt is thrifted, and everything else is from Target. <span style="font-size: 85%;">(Seriously, EVERYTHING else... o_O )</span><br />
And, I'm not gonna lie; I not going to wear those shoes. I have a chronic heel problem <span style="font-size: 85%;">(that is, a problem with the shoes, not a medical problem lol)</span> which I am sure I will divulge later in this blog, but I never wear heels.<br />
Yep business casual is like living a lie, but you do these things when you are trying to be a grown up.<br />
<br />
And it sometimes it definitely feels like you are wading through your quarter-life-crisis with nothing but a pair of swim trunks and some water wingies but.....<br />
at least the water is only neck deep?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/images/product_images/prt063_angel_water_wings_300%282%29.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/images/product_images/prt063_angel_water_wings_300%282%29.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a><span style="font-size: 78%;">Water wingies. Now on my wishlist.<br />
<br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">But now I must abscond, for the apartment on top of mine is getting new carpet installed and the noises emanating from above sound like the apocalypse is coming.<br />
<br />
Toodles,<br />
<br />
Sam</div></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-15777823747849996982010-08-29T07:10:00.000-07:002011-06-18T10:08:32.632-07:00Oh, What providence!<div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">So I was walkin' to the farmer's market with a buddy, mindin' my own business..</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">When out of nowhere I stop dead in my tracks. *SCREECH*<br />
Sitting on the sidewalk is a gorgeous antique bedframe. "Is it free? Is it free?" I pester my buddy, as if he had otherworldy knowledge that I did not. Sure enough the makeshift sign taped to the palm tree said FREE!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">What providence! I recently got a new roommate and downsized from a queen mattress (that was acres to big for me) to a nice and comfy twin. Yet I had no bed frame. I had been sleeping with my mattress on the floor because I absolutely refuse to spend even forty dollars on a cheap-o ikea bed frame. I knew someone, somewhere had to have one they didn't need, but I assumed it would be someone in my family or friends, and that it would just be a very simple standard one. Who knew that right around the corner, adorable bed frame destiny awaited me!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0890.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-574 aligncenter" height="523" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0890-e1283115683270.jpg" title="_MG_0890" width="349" /></a><br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0890.jpg"></a>It is a gold color and super sturdy, regardless of it being pretty old-looking.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><a name='more'></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0892-e1283115695886.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-575" height="523" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0892-e1283115695886.jpg" title="_MG_0892" width="349" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0892-e1283115695886.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0894.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-576 aligncenter" height="333" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0894.jpg" title="_MG_0894" width="499" /></a><br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0896.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0896.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-577" height="333" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0896.jpg" title="_MG_0896" width="499" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I think my favorite part is the owl on the tag that says "1/3 your life is spent in bed".<br />
Why, thank you kind, wise owl!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Finding the bed frame made my week, but the luck didn't stop there! We were rummaging through the boxes of free things that held mostly a huge assortment of candles, and my friend said, "Oh look, shoes!"<br />
(O_0)</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0904.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-578 aligncenter" height="333" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0904.jpg" title="_MG_0904" width="499" /></a><br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0907.jpg"></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0907.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-579 aligncenter" height="333" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0907.jpg" title="_MG_0907" width="499" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Both of them are my exact size! GAHH SO CUTE!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I don't know what the deal is today, but the universe sure is like, "Hey. Let's cut Sam a break, kay?"<br />
I feel like I need to rewrite that one line in the Decemberist's <i>Mariner's Revenge</i> song:<br />
"Oh, what providence, what divine intelligence, <i>that I should find these things for free!</i>"</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Providence, luck or karma?</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Who knows? But the universe sure does tend to provide for you if you keep a bubble of positivity around you.<br />
The shoes will satiate the urge I've had to spend money (on shoes) lately, and the bed frame means I don't have to sniff carpet dust every morning!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Also it is so romantic and reminds me of my childhood when I'd pretend my canopy bed was a castle or fortress.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">First I'd be trapped:</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0917-e1283115729755.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-580 aligncenter" height="523" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0917-e1283115729755.jpg" title="_MG_0917" width="349" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And despair:</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0919-e1283115762739.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-582 aligncenter" height="523" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0919-e1283115762739.jpg" title="_MG_0919" width="349" /></a><br />
And then the ANGER!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0918-e1283115749592.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-581 aligncenter" height="523" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0918-e1283115749592.jpg" title="_MG_0918" width="349" /></a><br />
The attempted escape:</div><br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0920-e1283115780138.jpg"></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0920-e1283115780138.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-583 aligncenter" height="523" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0920-e1283115780138.jpg" title="_MG_0920" width="349" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">But finally, a newfound acceptance of my gilded cage.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0922-e1283115796930.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-584 aligncenter" height="523" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/mg_0922-e1283115796930.jpg" title="_MG_0922" width="349" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Okay, I'm done being over-dramatic.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">But I did learn a storybook lesson today.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">All it took to brighten my day / save me money / get me taking silly pictures was some unwanted stuff that a lady chose to give away rather than trash it or try to make money off it.<br />
Her decision created a little bit of providence, happy little providence waiting patiently on the curb waiting for someone who needed it.<br />
It's nice to know that you can create providence/luck for another person.<br />
It's super cheesy, but my sweet new bed frame has inspired my to "pay it forward" as they say.<br />
I think I'll go through all the stuff I've been hoarding and maybe leave some books with cute "Read me, I'm yours now!" notes or something.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Aw, gosh! I feel so fuzzy inside! I think I need to go squeeze something fuzzy on the outside (HERE KITTY, KITTY!), drink some tea and daydream now.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Wishing you some providence,</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Sam</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: right;"></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-84614464336590591602010-07-25T15:02:00.000-07:002011-04-26T16:16:50.313-07:00Tutorial! Your Friendly Neighborhood Skully Necklace...July is birthday month in my family.<br/><br/>My Grandma, Dad, Cousin, both my sisters and I are allllll born this month.<br/>And just to spice things up, my parents unconsciously decided to have my sisters and I all within a day of each other.<br/><br/>So what better way to get out of a mid-summer craft funk than with lots of impending birthday parties? (No better way obviously.)<br/><br/>My littlest sister is super-cool and original, (in those early teen years, that's a feat!) has gauged ears (ALREADY!) and wants to be a tattoo artist (a profession my mother actually endorses).<br/><br/>All in all, she's a pretty hep cat.<br/><br/>So I decided to make something that would fit her personality.<br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/mg_0652.jpg"><img title="_MG_0652" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/mg_0652.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="333" /></a><br/><br/>A friendly family of felt skulls she can wear around her neck!!<br/><br/>This is a super easy project and the technique could be used to make a felt necklace out of any design IN THE WORLD you can draw, photocopy or find clip art of! ANYTHING!!!!<br/><br/>(Ok now, don't get too excited)<br/><br/><a name='more'></a><br/><br/><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Materials:</span></strong><br/><br/>Felt!<br/>Freezer paper (Like wax paper but with wax on only one side. Check you grocery store.)<br/>Iron<br/>Drawing utensil (I like pencils. I find them to be a classic.)<br/>Exacto knife + cutting mat<br/>Scissors<br/>Fabric paint (regular paint might actually work too. I'll explain later...)<br/>Something pointy (embroidery needle, push pin, etc...)<br/>Necklace chain + jump rings / or a nice fancy ribbon<br/><br/><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Step 1:</span></strong><br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0629.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-534 alignnone" title="IMG_0629" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0629.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="332" /></a><br/><br/>Draw your design on the back (the not shiny/not waxy side) of the freezer paper. Keep it simple because you'll have to cut out all the little details.<br/><em>Also, keep things (like the skull heads) connected, unless you plan on doing something crazy and connecting the peices with jump rings or something (you're on your own with that).</em><br/><br/><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Step 2:</span></strong><br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0631.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-535" title="IMG_0631" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0631.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="332" /></a><br/><br/>A. Cut out your design! The spaces you cut out is where the paint will go, so plan your designs and cut accordingly!<br/><br/>B. Lay the design on your felt (put all the little center pieces like my skull eyes in place too) and press your iron over them until<br/>they stick to the felt.<br/><em> Don't set the iron on the felt for too long, you might melt it! </em><br/><br/><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Step 3:</span></strong><br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0634.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-536" title="IMG_0634" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0634.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="332" /><br/></a> Once all the corners are stuck nicely, PAINT! Make sure you cover all the exposed felt.<br/>Once it is dry you can apply a second coat (I got too lazy though).<br/><em>I haven't tried it, but acrylic paint (as opposed to fabric paint) might work well too. Felt soaks up a lot of whatever you put on it, so something that gets good coverage is best.</em><br/><br/><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Step 4:</span></strong><br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0635.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-537" title="IMG_0635" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0635.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="332" /></a><br/><br/>PEEL THE PAPER OFF!<br/>This is the most fun part. (Make sure the paint is dry though!)<br/><br/><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Step 5:</strong></span><br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0636.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-538" title="IMG_0636" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0636.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="332" /></a><br/><br/>Cut off any excess felt.<br/><br/><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Step 6:</span></strong><br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/mg_0651.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-531" title="_MG_0651" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/mg_0651.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="333" /></a><br/><br/>Use your pointy object to open up two holes on equal sides of your felt piece. I folded mine in half to make sure it was even.<br/><br/>At this point you can either string a ribbon or some embroidery thread through the holes and be done with it OR attach it to a jewelry chain by poking a jump ring through each hole:<br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0646.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-540" title="IMG_0646" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/img_0646.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="332" /></a><br/><br/><em>Yay, jump ring action shot!</em><br/><br/>And then attaching the rings to your chain!<br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/mg_0652.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-532" title="_MG_0652" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/mg_0652.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="333" /></a><br/><br/>TADAA!!<br/><br/>Here is my sis modeling it with style (and a PF Changs for birthday dinner):<br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/mg_0677.jpg"><img title="_MG_0677" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/mg_0677-e1280121314566.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="747" /></a><br/><br/>SO PURTY!<br/><br/>And this freezer paper techinique is good for ALLL kinds of things like putting your designs on tshirts... pillows... wall hangings... go crazy!<br/><br/>GO CRAZY!<br/><br/>Ok, not that crazy.Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-51235922916607961842010-06-23T12:55:00.000-07:002011-06-16T11:33:36.877-07:00DIY Lazy Susan with Woodburned Fish Design for Father's DayFor Father's Day, I made my daddy a custom "lazy suzan" turntable thingy!<br /><br />I picked up a really old and faded Ikea-brand lazy susan at the thrift store, drew a fishy design on it (my daddy is quite the fisherman) and set to it with my trusty woodburning tool.<br /><br /><em>*segue* Have I told you about my trusty woodburning tool? It </em><a href="http://www.michaels.com/art/online/displayProductPage?productNum=gc0001"><em>looks like this </em></a><em> and not only does it let me burn designs into wood, but I can solder things and melt plastic and.... MWUAHAHAHAA. I love it and have to sit on my hands to avoid the urge to burn holes in things with it. </em><br /><br />Anyway, after carving my fishy design into it:<br /><br /><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1409/4729432996_348dcbe428_b.jpg"><img style="width: 610px; height: 408px;" class="alignnone" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1409/4729432996_348dcbe428_b.jpg" alt="" /></a><br /><br />*Cute dead fishies!*<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br />I applied a stain and sealant.<br /><br /><img class="alignnone" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1040/4728793271_7e35e0ff2e_b.jpg" alt="" width="479" height="507" /><br /><em>Btw, ignore the strategically placed sea creatures, they are blocking out my addresses. 10 points if you already spotted them!</em><br /><br />I don't have a picture of it dry, but the wood is a much better color in person.<br /><br />This is a super easy gift to make, just thrift some wooden stuff and decorate! You could do pepper grinders, picture frames (I have one I'm working on actually), or even go all out and do something huge like a whole bookcase!<br /><br />And if you aren't that craftily inclined, but like to draw or illustrate, this is a good way to start edging your way over to the dark side (with Craft Vader and yarn-ball-shaped Deathstars).<br /><br />Now to find a lightsaber attachment for my woodburning tool...Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-36654987565311477812010-06-16T09:40:00.000-07:002011-05-24T21:39:15.582-07:00Pllaannttttss!!!!! And Mini Tutorial.<p style="text-align: center;"></p><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1305/4707646900_f6d0b62b04_b.jpg" alt="" width="682" height="456" /></p><br /><p style="text-align: center;"></p><br /><p style="text-align: center;">Wheehoowwheehooowheeehooooo.</p><br /><p style="text-align: center;">(That there was the sound of me hyperventilating)</p><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><a name='more'></a></p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">Ok.<br />So first of all, I have a serious problem. I often anthropomorphize inanimate objects.</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">Kitchen appliances....</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://geekadelphia.com/2008/12/18/papercraft-the-brave-little-toaster/"><img class="alignnone" src="http://geekadelphia.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/brave-little-toaster-papercraft.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /></a></p><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://geekadelphia.com/2008/12/18/papercraft-the-brave-little-toaster/"></a>Household objects...<br /><a href="http://happychairishappy.com/"><img class="alignnone" src="http://chzhappychairishappy.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/129200399911650006.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="442" /></a></p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">My lunch...</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://myfoodlooksfunny.com/page/2/"><img class="alignnone" src="http://myfoodlooksfunny.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/1292006992064467711.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="387" /></a></p><br /><p style="text-align: left;"></p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">But most of all, plants.</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">LOOK HOW CUTE!!!!</p><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4707035103_29ebeb6650_b.jpg" alt="" width="721" height="482" /><em>They are like babies! Darling little green babies! Everyone loves babies!!</em></p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">I planted these ADORABLE little seedlings in an egg carton on my windowsill and I LOVE them</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">Like they are my very own family.</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">Everyday when I wake up, and before I go to sleep, and sometimes at other random times during the day, I go over and marvel at how they've grown in the last 20 minutes since I last took a look.<br />Sometimes they are angled a different direction, sometimes I can see a new little leaf budding out.</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">GAAHH SO CUTE!!!!<br />I've done everything short of naming them.</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">And not even because that's a little weird, but because if one of them ends up not making it...</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">That would be just to much for me to handle.</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">Anyway, if you don't have seedlings in YOUR windowsill yet, you need to do it NOW. NOW!!! ALL PLANTS NEED HOMES!!!!</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;">Seriously, this mini tutorial is so simple, I don't know how you could NOT do it.</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;"></p><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Adorable Little Sprout Babies for Your Windowsill:</span></strong></p><br /><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1292/4707675550_b08e700012_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1292/4707675550_b08e700012_b.jpg" alt="" width="737" height="492" /></a><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Front row: Arugula, Tomato. Back row: Beets and Spearmint (which is super tiny).</em></p><br /><strong>INGREDIENTS</strong><br /><br />-1 egg carton <em>(sans eggs)</em><br /><br />-dirt <em><a href="http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2772290&cp=2568443.2568444.2598677.1260387&lmdn=Brand&searchId=48226844704">(no backyard?)</a></em><br /><br />-seeds <em><a href="http://www.victoryseeds.com/index.html">(try these!)</a></em><br /><br />-something pointy <em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEyhjqvbv25AgLIs2ngQ9JZnHEPnxBmovuKd2Q0D3usmcxMceIFHOLssZvLrgeF2VnOdBR8npvp1tq_FMDrHxPU5GvWHGnXknMur8YWUjmSDnbg_CwKAf-4I_KoXRkQ6NnzoHn_vNG2g/s320/thumbtack.jpg">(!)</a></em><br /><br /><strong>Step 1</strong><br /><br />Separate the top of the carton from the bottom half.<br /><br /><strong>Step 2</strong><br /><br />Poke holes in the bottom of where the eggs usually sit for drainage (using your pointy thing). Stack that half of the carton on top half of the carton (like a tray!)<br /><br /><strong>Step 3</strong><br /><br />Fill each little egg-seat with dirt!<br /><br /><strong>Step 4</strong><br /><br />Insert seeds -> into dirt (according to seed package directions).<br /><br /><strong>Step 5</strong><br /><br />Water and wait.<br /><br /><strong>Step 6 </strong><br /><br />LOVE YOUR BABIES!!<br /><br />You could also line the tray with packing tape or plastic if you are worried about water coming through, but I haven't had much of a problem with that.<br />Also, alot of books and people have all these different opinions on what to stick your seeds in to make them grow right.<br />I don't know nothing about that.<br />I was getting really confused about "peat" and "vermiculite" and other creepy sounding things, so I just went for it and stuck them in potting soil. If you are using plain old backyard dirt you might want to rev it up a little bit with compost, but hey, I ain't no expert. Ask her -> <a href="http://www.yougrowgirl.com/">You Grow Girl</a><br /><br /><strong>Tips from someone who knows only slightly more than you do:</strong><br /><br />-Poke a hole in a water bottle cap for easy watering!<br />-Don't over water! I learned this from killing off many a basil plant.<br />-Because the carton is biodegradable, it is super easy to transplant once your seedlings get big enough to take on the world. Just separate each little pod and stick in the ground (or bigger container). You might want to tear the carton around the roots to set them free a bit. But I'm not sure, I haven't gotten that far yet.<br />-Plants love haikus. Tell them some and they'll <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MythBusters_%282004_season%29#Talking_to_Plants">grow better.</a><br /><br />YAY!<br /><br />I am currently in the process of building these little guys a bigger home. (<em>Geez, they grow up so fast! *tear*)</em><br /><br />Because I lack a backyard, a balcony or a windowsill wider than an egg carton, it may be a feat, but I'll keep you updated.<br /><br />Happy planting!<br /><br /><em>MORE PICTURES!!</em><br /><br /><em><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4707042783_d0400a7f0b_b.jpg"><img class="alignnone" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4707042783_d0400a7f0b_b.jpg" alt="" width="717" height="479" /></a></em><br /><br /><em><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1273/4707044173_7da2c25824_b.jpg"><img class="alignnone" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1273/4707044173_7da2c25824_b.jpg" alt="" width="717" height="479" /></a></em><br /><br /><em><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4707039141_0f046ff8b0_b.jpg"><img class="alignnone" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4707039141_0f046ff8b0_b.jpg" alt="" width="717" height="479" /></a></em>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-60781238034020179692010-05-25T01:45:00.000-07:002011-04-26T16:16:50.314-07:00Macaron Madness<a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1905705"><br/><img class="aligncenter" src="http://whi.s3.prod.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/images/1905705/tumblr_kyzo64RorQ1qapadno1_500_large.jpg?1270861352" alt="" width="500" height="375" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1889125"></a><a name='more'></a><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1402668"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://whi.s3.prod.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/images/1402668/3525048102_71fbbf8b8d_large.jpg?1264632522" alt="" width="500" height="332" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1402668"></a><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/2177487"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://whi.s3.prod.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/images/2177487/4586703408_f3037c5c76_large.jpg?1273315540" alt="" width="500" height="333" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/777776"></a><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/862649"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://whi.s3.prod.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/images/862649/3820783915_8d1deb971e_large.jpg?1255839513" alt="" width="500" height="333" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1833997"></a><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/777776"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://whi.s3.prod.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/images/777776/2798511357_8fbf928903_large.jpg?1254167173" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/2177487"></a><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1833997"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://whi.s3.prod.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/images/1833997/20100320_10_large.jpg?1270197569" alt="" width="500" height="333" /></a><br/><br/>GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!<br/><br/>I am obsessed.<br/><br/>So it all began last week, with a chance wander by my local Urban Outfitters...<br/>There was a sale on random stuff, (you know all the excess things they have there other than clothes) and as I am indeed a fan of random stuff and "the cheap" as I often call it, I decided to browse.<br/>There was the novel <em>Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters</em> for 3 dolllars! An awesome travel tool kit! And this book:<br/><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1077294"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://whi.s3.prod.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/images/1077294/i-heart-macarons-cookbook-cover_large.jpg?1259751603" alt="" width="500" height="381" /></a><br/><br/>Also, three dollars.<br/><br/>And now for the transcript of my train of thought:<br/><em>It is pretty,</em> I think to myself. <em>AND THREE DOLLARS! Yet, I don't know what macarons are...<br/>BUT I CAN FIND OUT!<br/>And learn to make them.<br/>Look how pretty! And cheap!<br/>..But I don't even know what they taste like.<br/>What if I don't even like them.<br/>What a waste of 3 dollars. I could spend that 3 dollars on a can of Spam.</em><br/><br/>We ll, kind reader, that book got all the way to the register before I made the fateful decision to leave it behind.<br/>I thought nothing of it. At the time...<br/><br/>Fast forward to Sunday.<br/>Oh, so sunny and pleasant, a perfect day to frolic through the farmer's market. As I filled my ecologically conscientious reusable bag with delectable organic locally grown peaches and potatoes, I thought to myself, <em>I am such a good person</em>. I then proceeded to teach some orphans how to read while saving a basket of puppies from the gutter.<br/><br/>As I wiped my brow after the long trek of produce-hunting, and innocence-saving, I glanced into my wallet.<br/><br/>One dollar left.<br/><em>Well I did good,</em> thinks I. <em>I doubt there is anything I can get for a dollar.</em><br/><br/>Suddenly, something shimmers from the corner of my eye. I take a closer look. As I close in on the crowded counter, I can see a soft, jewel-like glow pulsing out from in between the spaces of people blocking my view.<br/>I can sense something tender, delicious and pastel just beyond my range of vision.<br/><br/>A customer leaves, and BEHOLD THE GLORY! THE GLOW PULSES BRIGHT AND THE BEAUTY COMES INTO FULL VIEW.<br/><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1905705"></a><br/><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1889125"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://whi.s3.prod.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/images/1889125/tumblr_l0jn6onPR01qattr5o1_500_large.jpg?1270706300" alt="" width="500" height="375" /></a><br/><br/>Macarons.<br/><br/>Now I had no idea that they were called macarons at the time, that realization was the result of hours of furious googling I obsessively conducted after this incident.<br/><br/>Back to the scene.<br/><br/>A BEAUTY SO BRIGHT, IT SEEMED AS IF LIGHT WAS EMANATING FROM THE DELICACIES THEMSELVES.<br/><br/>And they were one dollar each.<br/><br/>So I proceeded to purchase a pink one with powdered sugar on top.<br/>And I proceeded to eat it.<br/>And I proceeded to melt to the ground in joy, just as it melted into my tongue.<br/><br/>I cannot describe the taste. You must have it for yourself.<br/><br/>I instantly developed an obsession, which involved me biking to a bakery later in the day to buy more.<br/><br/>DAINTY, COLORFUL, WHIMSICAL, ADORABLE! I WANT TO LIVE INSIDE ONE!<br/><br/>I feel like I need at least one every day for the rest of my life or I might go insane.<br/><br/>*twitch**twitch*<br/><br/>Kind reader, I understand you might not fully appreciate this obsession. But reach deep into your heart and ask yourself, <em>have you tried these yet?<br/></em>If the answer is yes, I suspect we share a certain kinship.<br/>If the answer is no, I mourn. I mourn for your soul.<br/><br/>-Sam<br/><br/><em>P.S. I'm also going back to UO to see if they still have that book...</em>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-23079851787100757452010-05-03T02:43:00.000-07:002011-04-26T16:16:50.314-07:00Light Me Up, Up, and Away.Yesterday I posted about Lucia Holm's photography and made the remark that I wanted an illuminated umbrella like the one in <a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2601/4205252306_ea749b0f7a_b.jpg">this picture.</a><br/><br/>Try as I might to restrain the yearning, I am intrigued by the idea.<br/><em>But Sam,</em> I tell myself, <em>not only does San Diego get less than 12 inches of rain a year, but we are in a DROUGHT! You couldn't even justify getting yourself some <a href="http://bigrab.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/wellies.jpg">wellies</a> during the week that it DID rain!<br/><span style="font-style:normal;">Well self, just shuddup.</span></em><br/><br/><em><span style="font-style:normal;">Sockmaster from Instructables has a <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Electric-Umbrella/">great tutorial</a> for an LED umbrella. </span></em><br/><br/><em><span style="font-style:normal;"> </span><a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Electric-Umbrella/"><img class="alignnone" title="iu1" src="http://www.instructables.com/image/FCBGTGIFEQ4B0RP/Electric-Umbrella.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="423" /></a></em><br/><br/><em><a name='more'></a><br/></em><br/><br/>I equally love this one, with the lights in dotted lines (there's also a dimmer attached!), and the one from the Lucia Holm photograph, with the black umbrella and just a glowing underside.<br/><br/>So what if it doesn't rain here?<br/><br/>I imagine a bunch of the black glowing umbrellas stuck up in the branches of a big oak tree for a party or wedding or just everyday, if you are so lucky enough to lead such a whimsical life.<br/><br/>BTW, have I mentioned how obsessed I am with lights in trees?<br/><br/><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/obsessivephotography/459312377/"><img class="alignnone" title="iu2" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/197/459312377_7147ac3ec3.jpg" alt="" width="375" height="500" /></a><br/><br/><em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/obsessivephotography/459312377/">Trish Mayo</a></em><br/><br/>I dunno what it is, but something about glowing lights + trees + dusk just creates something so beautiful in my mind. And it's not like an "oohh pretty" kind of beautiful.<br/>It's more like wonder and awe of a harmonious meld of human and nature.<br/>Seriously one of my most favorite things. If I ever do one of those "my favorite things" posts, lights in trees will be on it.<br/><br/>Did anyone see the Tim Burton Alice in Wonderland?<br/>This movie warrants a whole new post, but I have to say that hands down the best part of the movie was the ending credits with the Avril Lavigne song and the mushrooms growing out of the frame.<br/>I mean, I'll leave it to you to insinuate what I think of the rest of the movie, but the ending credits are gold.<br/><br/>Anyway, that is relevant because when the mushrooms grow really big, they are illuminated from under the cap and it was the best thing ever.<br/><br/>Really.<br/>On par with lights in trees.Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-87338646231406371802010-04-27T08:24:00.000-07:002011-04-26T16:16:50.314-07:00Teddy Girl TakeoverWhen you have as short an attention span as I do, and as great an affinity for random knowledge, you spend a lot of time on Wikipedia. You know, you go looking for one thing, then you see an interesting link to another article, and again... and before you know it you've gone from space shuttles to prickly pear cactus. Btw... if you've never played the <a href="http://wikipediagame.org/">Wikipedia game</a>, now is the time to start.<br/><br/>Anyway, I was on a tangent and somehow ended up reading a list of subcultures. One of which I was not familiar was the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teddy_Boy">Teddy Girls.</a><br/><br/>These girls were the bad-a**es of 1950's london. Mostly from working-class families, they put a feisty androgynous spin on Edwardian fashion.<br/><br/><img class="alignnone" src="http://adeedwithoutaname.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/tg10.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="394" /><br/><br/><a name='more'></a><br/><br/><img class="alignnone" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/tg15-735258.jpg?w=295" alt="" width="336" height="341" /><br/><br/>Amazingly enough these pictures, all from British filmmaker Ken Russell, are the only surviving professional photos of the Teddy Girls known. <a href="http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/article735924.ece">This article</a> gives more background on the history of the photos and Teddy Girls and is SUPER interesting. Here's a morsel:<br/><p style="padding-left:30px;"><em>“We weren’t bad girls... We were all right. We got slung out of the picture house for jiving up the aisles once, but we never broke the law. We weren’t drinkers. We’d go to milk bars, have a peach melba and nod to the music, but you weren’t allowed to dance. It was just showing off: ‘Look at us!’ We called the police ‘the bluebottles’ – you’d see them come round in a Black Maria to catch people playing dice on the corner. But we’d just sit on each other’s doorsteps and play music.” </em></p><br/><p style="padding-left:60px;">-Teddy Girl Rose Shine</p><br/>Oh, the 50s. Milk bars, not being allowed to dance, police concerned with dice players. The good ol' days. What ever happened to milk bars? And pencil skirts, rolled-up jeans and jackets with velvet-lined collars? Heck yeah!<br/><br/>What a heaping helpin' of attitude these girls served up.<br/><br/><a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"></a><a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"><img class="alignnone" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcQ1oChvJBJ1sRMDDYEk5g3LgcMRhu-ygul_rFnDEZG5O0oPjNNjfcLDozDaljdBgiS94FuuerlVJiVv9PiW1t41Mn2qhzrsca_kYHRv3DWnsUJNGnelS9251Y0QtSHXyhXCCmRQ2CG5I/s400/teddygirl.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="246" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/teddygirls5.jpg?w=300"><img class="alignnone" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/teddygirls5.jpg?w=300" alt="" width="302" height="300" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"></a><a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"><img class="alignnone" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiq1zAP_DrRDhxf_tbEWSfRowlC4AdvNgFV-_qcwePhRZED6UApt4vcmDWtS84tz33R0Ptin6YxGBm4WwDK7IHnPjg7jiDVNj2nj4LYHfYHbOGTLoYoyQPIr4mqfgWAkavWHy99Eu-yJs/s400/Ken_Russell_Teddy_Girls_1.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="389" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"></a><br/><br/><a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"></a><a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"><img class="alignnone" src="http://www.andmas.co.uk/teens/images_2/teddy_girl.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="466" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"></a><em><br/></em> <a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"></a><a href="http://divinedecadencedarling.blogspot.com/2008/07/teddy-girls.html"><img class="alignnone" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM80CA7fK374bg38cltUs4Q8iIH-Ugs3tjj3hXgfD3h7hd64Xv-4hOuLz0f_eHWamTysDaO0vBiIlZfU9GBRjCeLKvYtlt5MhH1GTr5kcKr0EdcfiS8h3-sg-fMWnQ4GxwL1U_fUq_90k/s400/teddygirlsBatterseaFunFair1956.jpg" alt="" width="298" height="400" /></a><br/><br/>The last picture is definitely my favorite. Slightly reminiscent of <a href="http://lululetty.blogspot.com/2010/03/hats-off-to-you.html">Lulu Letty</a>. Or I guess it would be the other way around...<br/><br/>What have I learned?<br/><br/>1. I need a black blazer.<br/>2. I have a good reason to wear all those random neck scarves I have lying around.<br/>3. Roll up my jeans!!! (Summertime, fast approaching, demands this of me regardless.)<br/><br/>How exciting is it to find an obscure (totally modern-able) vintage subculture look?<br/>Maybe only exciting to huge fashion history geeks like me.<br/><br/>SO BE IT!<br/><br/>;)Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-39681314746531051942010-03-21T04:51:00.000-07:002011-06-18T10:13:20.198-07:00Obsessed.I resisted the Lady Gaga phenomenon so well.<br />
I really did.<br />
I considered her just a kooky pop singer with a few interesting costuming tricks up her sleeve. I contently went about my way, minding my own business, while friends and family rabidly chanted her lyrics while fashioning their hair into intricate bow shapes.<br />
I was Gaga indifferent, I suppose you might say. I was neither a lover nor a hater, a rarity in the world of Gaga, because her lovers REALLY love her, and her haters REALLY hate her.<br />
<br />
That was then.<br />
<br />
I had the incredible misfortune to be shown the video for "Telephone" at work last week, and it has changed my life.<br />
<br />
Okay, maybe I can be a bit overdramatic at times.<br />
But if you haven't already, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQ95z6ywcBY" title="Telephone Video">go take a look</a> at the plethora of great (and often crazy) outfits, awesome makeup, all with a delicious neo-retro feel. (Warning: Video contains lots of semi-nudity, chick-fights, sandwich-making, breakfast poisonings and unbleeped words, if that is not your kind of thing. It is also dang catchy, and I am not responsible for any <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earworm" title="def: earworm">earworms</a> you may catch.)<br />
<br />
There is just so much great material to talk about, I can't do it all.<br />
Here's one of my favorite Lady Gaga looks:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ladygaga.com/photos/detail.aspx?fid=16698&in=5"><img alt="" class="alignnone" height="333" src="http://cache.interscope.com/images/local/500/e99bde2c-54e2-48c6-b34c-2e8c17a3d17d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
But aside from her (approximately) 10 different outfits I could describe, the one that really changed my life... *dramatic swoon*<br />
was on Beyonce:<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/kitsch1.jpg"></a><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/beyonce.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-202" height="400" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/beyonce.jpg" title="beyonce" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
ahh..... tingle tingle. (I know it doesn't make any sense, that is just how I feel.)<br />
Lol.<br />
<br />
BUT<br />
Royal blue + gold + jewel tones!<br />
Pink lipstick!<br />
Cluttered tastefully-tacky 1950's style kitschy trinkets!<br />
Plastic pearls thrown about helter-skelter!<br />
Those bangs!<br />
Those <i>shooooooes.</i><br />
<br />
<i> </i><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-style: normal;">The shoes are what set me off.<br />
Google told me that both the jacket and the shoes are by<a href="http://www.jc-de-castelbajac.com/"> Jean Charles De Castelbajac</a>, who, according to another google search, has done quite a bit of kooky stuff, including that <a href="http://www.mascaraormotoroil.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/MIA-Shark-dress.jpg">MIA shark dress</a>.</span></i><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-style: normal;">I don't know what changed in me the moment I took a good long look at those shoes, but there has been a major shift in my fashion sensibilities.</span></i><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-style: normal;">I usually go through fashion phases, where there is a certain fashion meme I become interested in, and then for a while explore all the variations and permutations of the style. I wouldn't really call the trends, because they are more broad, things like Steampunk infulenced, 1920s influenced, were phases I've gone through.<br />
I think I have been in the doldrums lately though, because there hasn't been much of an phase I've been in for a while.<br />
I've been interested in a kind of mish-mash cloud of vintage fashion, but I haven't put a lot of effort into it. </span></i><br />
<br />
But I think that this might be my new era.<br />
Kitschy, bright colors, a kind of tacky-cool aethetic that doens't take itself to seriously.<br />
1950s influenced but throughly modern.<br />
Seafoam green, pink, neon yellow, royal blue, gold.<br />
A bit of Japanese kawaii thrown in for good measure.<br />
<br />
It's all just so.... tasty.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/galleries/72157623530294667/"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-208" height="457" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/kitschgalpreview.jpg" title="kitschgalpreview" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<i> Click on the image to go to the flickr gallery I put together for inspiration.</i><br />
<br />
YUM!<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-style: normal;"> </span></i>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-65529525113072758782010-03-18T16:43:00.000-07:002011-06-18T10:14:14.305-07:00SWEET FREEDOM!I had my last final today...<br />
<br />
SPRING BREAK!<br />
<br />
woohoo!<br />
<br />
Thiiis time around I am going to make the best of it.<br />
LOTTSA crafting.<br />
aaand..<br />
I'm going to LA for the first time ever!<br />
Can you believe that I live in San Diego and have never been to L.A.?<br />
I really, really don't get out much.<br />
I'm going on Monday with one of my oldest and most fabulous friend.<br />
Our destination is the garment district and all the goodies it will behold.<br />
I am going to try to load up on some fabric so I can get my sewin' on!<br />
<br />
BY THE WAY...<br />
<br />
I had entered a <a href="http://www.instructables.com/contest/sewwarm/">contest on Instructables.com</a> a while back with my ruffle scarf tutorial (which is the first post I ever did on this blog). Grand prize is this great serger/embroidering/everything machine and 1st prize is a dress form.<br />
<br />
Well... I am a finalist! Go read my instructable <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Upcycled-Victorian-esque-Ruffle-Scarf-In-less-tha/">here.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Upcycled-Victorian-esque-Ruffle-Scarf-In-less-tha/"></a><br />
<a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Upcycled-Victorian-esque-Ruffle-Scarf-In-less-tha/"><img alt="" height="618" src="http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b48/aneverlastingarborday/_MG_6933.jpg" width="438" /></a><br />
The contest is in the judging stage now, and the results will be in Monday.<br />
Now, take a moment to imagine me standing in the middle of the L.A. garment district, and finding out that I won a serger or dress form.<br />
What fate!<br />
What providence!<br />
What a great excuse to spend monies on fabric!<br />
<br />
Regardless, I am happy just to be a finalist, and either way I am really starting to up my sewing anty. If I don't have the good luck of winning a serger, I am going to start trying to save up money to get one myself.<br />
I just have this huge itch to sew knit fabrics.<br />
My own hoodies and rib-knit tank tops (my favvvvorite) and and and....<br />
**droooool**<br />
<br />
Anyway, I feel like I am going to be on a posting roll for at least the next week. I'm going to hammer out pictures of all those projects I've done but haven't mentioned (you mean you didn't know?) and all those tutorials I have backed up, as well as some great pictures from L.A. on Monday coming up!<br />
Yay!Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-23068001414236581412010-03-13T11:37:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:15:07.438-07:00DIY Spoke Lights!<div style="text-align: left;">I made some great spoke lights for my bicycle today.<br />
I almost can't wait go go ride in the dark to try them out.<br />
Saftey+pretty things = AWESOME!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">I have finals next week and the spring break! YAY!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">I am thinking about revamping my blog layout and also doing a video tutorial for these lights.<br />
OMGVIDEO.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">I'm a little giddy. When I am stressed I craft out.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Craft-out (verb)-<br />
A psychological response to stressful situations in which one finds comfort in glueing/crocheting/sewing/soldering things together as a mechanism to deal with pressure.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">You learned a new word today.<br />
Congratulations!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/mg_9366.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-130 aligncenter" height="439" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/mg_9366.jpg" title="_MG_9366" width="660" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/img_9331-e1268537229446.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-large wp-image-131 aligncenter" height="819" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/img_9331-e1268537229446.jpg?w=681" title="IMG_9331" width="545" /></a></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-67922712508751854792010-03-04T13:41:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:18:57.696-07:00New Favorite Person.<div><br />
</div><div>Dear Zooey Deschanel,</div><div>I see you prancing around in vintage bathing suits.</div><div>Stop making me love you. </div><div><br />
</div><a href="http://cyanatrendland.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/500full-zooey-deschanel.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://cyanatrendland.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/500full-zooey-deschanel.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/zooey2bdeschanel2b-2bellen2bvon2bunwerth2bphotoshoot.jpg?w=206"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/zooey2bdeschanel2b-2bellen2bvon2bunwerth2bphotoshoot.jpg?w=206" /></a><br />
<div>This post is the fruit of my directionless internet browsing.</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-43017149770188183062010-03-02T14:01:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:16:26.599-07:00Case Study in CuteSometimes I come across something that just makes me go... YES!!!<br />
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<div>Case Study #1:</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">YESSS!!!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Also winning the award for most appropriate name, <a href="http://www.happytape.bigcartel.com/">Happy Tape</a> sells tons of pretty rolls of tape.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">It is one of those things you don't know you need until you see it.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">My roommate has recently introduced me to the world of Japanese and Korean stationary, and oh, what a pretty world it is.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">She recently bought these super-cute realistic-looking leaf post-its:</div><br />
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<a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.122188523.jpg"></a><br />
<div><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.122188523.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.122188523.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div>And these cute little Russian doll post-its:</div><br />
<div><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.122188402.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.122188402.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div>And I am beyond jealous.</div><br />
<div>Though at least I get to see them stuck everywere.</div><br />
<div>The seller <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/nothingelegant">Nothing Elegant </a> (who wins the award for least appropriate name!) has such an abundance of amazing, I might explode.</div><br />
<div>Fruit-shaped notepads, cotton fabric tape, speech-bubble sticky notes and.....</div><br />
<div><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.126454585.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.126454585.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div>LACE TAPE!!!</div><br />
<div>.....</div><br />
<div>YESSS!!</div><br />
<div>But once again, what do I need pretty tape for?</div><br />
<div>My roommate gave me a great answer:</div><br />
<div>"To stick sh*t to other sh*t, obviously."</div><br />
<div>Well put, roomie, well put.</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-69766681369455833572010-02-07T11:13:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:16:58.082-07:00Super Thriftingbowl Sunday!You can have your football, I'll take my pre-loved clothing stores.<br />
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</div><div>Today I visited a thrift store chock full of goodies in search of my Epic Valentine's Day outfit. </div><div>Yet I bought more than I expected (though I should always expect <i>that</i> to happen).</div><div>Here is a sampling of what I obtained:</div><div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/4339780236/" title="mosaic13e129950a133a9b199cf9d391410c080774ca8c by nomadtheeskimo, on Flickr"><img alt="mosaic13e129950a133a9b199cf9d391410c080774ca8c" height="1225" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2744/4339780236_8167074ca4_o.jpg" width="615" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>I was running out of daylight so there is more I have yet to photograph including some purple flats, white and gold wedges and something that will make you go "MIDDLE SCHOOL!" all over again. They were super trendy back then and seeing a whole box of them just brought back all kinds of memories. What could it be? I'll post them up tomorrow. :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Sooo...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">VALENTINE'S DAY! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I swear I am becoming a housewife before my time, because every little holiday makes me really excited and ready to break out the cookies and Jello molds.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">This Vday I was promised by a dear friend that if I dyed my hair pink, we go to some really fancy restaurant all gussied up.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I could not help but to take up that offer. </div><div style="text-align: left;">So I went on the search for the perfect outfit to complement my pink hair.</div><div style="text-align: left;">My vision involves some great pink 1950s-60 dress with a big pink bow and lots of shades of pink accessories. </div><div style="text-align: left;">While SuperThriftingbowlSundaying I found the ALMOST perfect dress.</div></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/4339716704/" title="_MG_9183 by nomadtheeskimo, on Flickr"><img alt="_MG_9183" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4339716704_ff66ba385e.jpg" width="334" /> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/4339716704/" title="_MG_9183 by nomadtheeskimo, on Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/4338977517/" title="_MG_9184 by nomadtheeskimo, on Flickr"><img alt="_MG_9184" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4338977517_10235a56b0.jpg" width="334" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>It is a bit pinker than this in real life and it is seamed really nicely. </div><div>Unfortunately it is the ALMOST perfect dress because it only<i> just about</i> fits me.</div><div>Just a TAD too small. </div><div>So I am not sure what to do. </div><div>So I keep looking or find some way to alter this dress?</div><div>I was thinking about finding some nice pink printed fabric and putting a panel down the middle to make it bigger, but I fear cutting up such a nice dress.</div><div>I think if I do it right, it would look great, but I am afraid I won't do it right. :(</div><div>Hmmm... what should I do?</div><div><br />
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</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-51909974317601715242010-01-20T12:28:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:17:57.378-07:00Style Icon<div>So.....</div><div><br />
</div><div>AUDREY HEPBURN. </div><div><br />
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<a href="http://img.timeinc.net/time/daily/2007/0701/hepburn_0119.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://img.timeinc.net/time/daily/2007/0701/hepburn_0119.jpg" /></a></div><div><br />
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</div><div>Yes. I know she is a style icon, and I always see that Breakfast at Tiffany's picture EVERYWHERE on EVERYTHING (posters, plates, t-shirts).</div><div>But I have never actually taken time to appreciate her.<br />
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Just gorgeous. <br />
<div>And those bangs?</div><div>To die for.</div><div>If God were a hairstylist..</div><div>I'd ask him for those bangs.</div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">(on a side note, what IF God were a hairstylist. Think of the whole bible just as it is, but with God being a hair stylist. Eternal punishment would be like... half a bowl-cut and half a mullet? *shudder*)</span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">But really, I don't know why I never knew the full extent of Audrey Hepburn's amazingness. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I got on my current Audrey roll when I one day went to school looking like this:</span></div><div><div><br />
</div><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4280496449_3724250b8a_b.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4280496449_3724250b8a_b.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div>And someone told me I looked like Audrey Hepburn. I then proceeded to googleimage her until the end of time, basking in her gloriousness. </div><div>I never understood the comparison though. I think maybe my hair was going there a bit. </div><div>(Which I really loved that day, but now I have short hair and can't do it again. *sniff*)</div><div><br />
</div><div>But I'm happy it came up, because I am now entering an Audrey Hepburn obsession phase and I think that I will now finally sign up for a Netflix and watch every movie she was ever in.<br />
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<div>I'll leave you with Audrey's take on beauty:</div><div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><i>"</i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><i>For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone."</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><i><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></i></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><i><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>-- Audrey Hepburn</i></span></span><br />
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</div><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/audrey-hepburn-audrey-hepburn-6395876-1280-1691.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/audrey-hepburn-audrey-hepburn-6395876-1280-1691.jpg?w=227" /></a><br />
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</div></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-81036321580344066522010-01-16T19:52:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:18:38.697-07:001940s Knitted TurbansI just found a vintage 1940s turban pattern on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/knit-yourself-a-turban-moss-stitch">Ravelry</a> that I have to knit. NOW.<br />
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<a href="http://www.vam.ac.uk/images/image/13095-large.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.vam.ac.uk/images/image/13095-large.jpg" /><a name='more'></a></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3191/2564786604_b3ec0790a0.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"> </a><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/Buttonsandstars"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Buttonsandstars' version</span></i></span></a></div><div><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3191/2564786604_b3ec0790a0.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"></span></a></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/nimblefingers">N</a></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/nimblefingers">imblefingers' version</a></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I just got my hair cut reallllly short and the back is a little too "Kate + 8" for my liking, if you know what I mean...</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I figure that until it grows out a bit I will wear lots of headbands and hats to shield the world from my reality-tv-mom haircut.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">.. It's actually not that bad. It looks great from the front, and I use way less shampoo now.. :)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> So now I am on a 1930s turban kick and I found these great twisted fabric ones on etsy:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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<a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com//il_430xN.113778290.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com//il_430xN.113778290.jpg" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=37866685&ref=sr_gallery_16&&ga_search_query=turban+headband&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title">By </a></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=37866685&ref=sr_gallery_16&&ga_search_query=turban+headband&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title">BabooshkaBoutique on Etsy</a></span></i></span></div><div><br />
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<a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com//il_430xN.108364981.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com//il_430xN.108364981.jpg" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36249207&ref=sr_gallery_15&&ga_search_query=turban+headband&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=2&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36249207&ref=sr_gallery_15&&ga_search_query=turban+headband&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=2&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title">By HeyRedBK on Etsy</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So many choices... I haven't had a headwear worthy haircut in a while...</div><div style="text-align: left;">ENTER THE REALM OF HATS!!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Teehee.</div><div style="text-align: left;">That is me being weirdly excited. </div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-89092966322673889782009-12-30T07:36:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:20:27.078-07:00Gone Fishing<a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com//il_430xN.112597819.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com//il_430xN.112597819.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com//il_430xN.97629359.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com//il_430xN.97629359.jpg" /></a><br />
I am on the hunt for the perfect chunky cabled fisherman's sweater.<br />
<div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Qualifications: </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>-Long</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>-Thick with voluptuous cables</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>-Ivory colored. Or off-white. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Glorious wooden buttons are a plus. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Why do I (and all of you!) need a fisherman's sweater? </div><div><br />
</div><div>Well, first off... it is cold! Being in SoCal, I tend to neglect the outwear section of my wardrobe. Then when it finally gets cold, I am lamenting my lack of warm things. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Second, it's nautical! I am big on nautical right now.. more to come on my current obsession in another post at a later time.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Third, I think it transitions into spring pretty well. Imagine a chunky fisherman's sweater paired with an airy light-colored dress. OOOoooooOoOOooo.. spring.. Can't wait!</div><div><div><br />
</div><div>If you've got $38.00 plus shipping to spend, go buy <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=37511292&ref=sr_gallery_12&&ga_search_query=cabled&ga_search_type=vintage&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title">this one from DearGoldenVintage</a></div><div>Or maybe <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33067974&ref=sr_gallery_9&&ga_search_query=fisherman%27s+sweater&ga_search_type=&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title">this one from SimpleThrift on Etsy.</a></div><div><br />
</div><div></div><div>As for me, I'm totally broke till mid-January. I guess I'll have to keep an eye out in the thrift stores until then. </div><div><br />
</div></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-90262087268661456482009-12-30T06:10:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:21:30.302-07:00Anchors Away!I added some nautical flair to a thrifted blue pencil skirt:<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/4229615298/" title="_MG_8907 by nomadtheeskimo, on Flickr"><img alt="_MG_8907" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4015/4229615298_dd22f8c8f6.jpg" width="334" /> <a name='more'></a></a></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/4229615298/" title="_MG_8907 by nomadtheeskimo, on Flickr"></a><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/4229615298/" title="_MG_8907 by nomadtheeskimo, on Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/4229619648/" title="_MG_8908 by nomadtheeskimo, on Flickr"><img alt="_MG_8908" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2704/4229619648_8bba4a37ee.jpg" width="334" /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande',serif; font-size: 0pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nomadtheeskimo/4228841051/" title="_MG_8913 by nomadtheeskimo, on Flickr"><img alt="_MG_8913" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2741/4228841051_bd29b15f4d.jpg" width="334" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Freezer paper stenciling is an easy and precise way to add images to fabric. You can't get as intricate as with screen printing, but it is waaaayyyy cheaper to do.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Tutorial to come!</div></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8255957253597685749.post-31629531021256583782009-11-22T10:05:00.000-08:002011-06-18T10:21:57.173-07:00What I was doing all October.<i>...and as she took each new step through the darkness, she could sense the entrance to the cave, the blinding light pouring fourth, and beyond it the world to behold! </i><br />
<br />
Anyways, that's what it feels when you rediscover the wonders of having wireless internet!<br />
<br />
For the past few months, I've been hookin' up ol' Betsy the old fashioned way... with a gawddarn ethernet cord.<br />
<br />
<i>*segue* ether.. net? What does that even mean? Why do they call it that. "Ether" is such a... ethereal word. ... ha. haha... *unsegue*</i><br />
<br />
<i> </i><br />
<br />
<i> <span style="font-style: normal;">Really, what use is a laptop when you are confined to a desk? Laptops were meant to be wild and free. Go on, Betsy. Thata girl. Hum your little internal fan off into the sunset!</span></i><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-style: normal;">... Yeah. Life is better now. I haven't blogged for a while though. I keep doing these projects and then I think, "Oh, OH! I want to put this on my blog!" And then I decide I am too busy and I should read some homework instead, but I end up not reading the homework at all and....</span></i><br />
<br />
<i>Well today I thought to myself,</i><br />
<br />
<i>"Hey you, I know you have homework. But really? Aren't you just going to do a good 2/3 of the night procrastinating?"</i><br />
<br />
<i> </i><br />
<br />
"Why yes, self. I won't lie, that sounds pretty precise."<br />
<br />
"Why don't you just acknowledge and come to terms with your procrastination and do something productive with it?"<br />
<br />
<i> "By Jove! That sounds like a great idea!"</i><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-style: normal;">So here I sit. (</span>In my big couch chair thanks to the wonders of wireless internet) </i><br />
<br />
<i> </i><br />
<br />
<i> <span style="font-style: normal;">This is officially catch-up blog #1. </span></i><br />
<br />
So lets see.<br />
<br />
#1)<br />
<br />
A big (ongoing) project I did recently was..<br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8873-e1258607065340.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-103" height="342" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8873-e1258607065340.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" title="IMG_8873" width="350" /></a><br />
<br />
Dye my hair!<br />
<br />
I bleached it, walked around as a blonde for a bit, then added some color!<br />
<br />
I've been super inspired by this girl's flickr page I randomly came across:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/racheljoyagatha/sets/72157617705834538/show/" target="_blank">http://www.flickr.com/photos/racheljoyagatha/sets/72157617705834538/show/</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/racheljoyagatha/sets/72157617705834538/show/" target="_blank"> </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/racheljoyagatha/sets/72157617705834538/show/" target="_blank"> </a>and now all I want is to be a different color everyday!<br />
<br />
#2)<br />
<br />
Most of October I was working on tons of costumes for my work. We were putting on a carnival event and I decided that it just wouldn't suffice unless everyone was in costume, so here is what I came up with:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8723.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-106" height="751" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8723-e1258610904246.jpg" title="IMG_8723" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
The ringmaster!<br />
<br />
Ruffled shirt and bowtie/cummerbund: Thrifted<br />
<br />
The jacket was thrifted and then altered to be a tailcoat, and the red collar, buttons and cuffs were added. Making regular jackets into tailcoats is a skill I think everyone should use! So I'll post a tute when I get the chance.<br />
<br />
Here's another one with his hat:<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8682-e1258610857385.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-105" height="717" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8682-e1258610857385.jpg?w=681" title="IMG_8682" width="477" /></a><br />
<br />
Next up,<br />
<br />
The Amazing FishBoy! (<i>Part fish, part boy, allllll man.)</i><br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8788.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-109" height="382" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8788.jpg?w=1024" title="IMG_8788" width="574" /></a><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8729-e1258611263964.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-107" height="819" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8729-e1258611263964.jpg?w=681" title="IMG_8729" width="545" /></a></i><br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8786.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-108" height="382" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8786.jpg?w=1024" title="IMG_8786" width="574" /></a></i><br />
<br />
Shirt: Altered thrifted sequined dress<br />
<br />
This one was super last-minute.<br />
<br />
His leggings are held together with staples because I didn't have enough time to sew them. o_O<br />
<br />
The shorts have scales drawn on them with gold sharpie, he has green painted cardboard flippers and webbed finger gloves held together with hotglue. If I had more time, he would probably be a less riffraffy fishboy, but hey! I think it worked out!<br />
<br />
And now,<br />
<br />
The spectacular Jungle Girl!!!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8742-e1258611304597.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-111" height="751" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8742-e1258611304597.jpg" title="IMG_8742" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
This one was so much fun!<br />
<br />
I basically went to a thrift store, got 4 different kinds of fabric (some shirts, some pants, a skirt), tore them up into long strips, and sewed all the strips together! Because one of the fabrics was stretchy, I didn't need a zipper or anything!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8763-e1258611329369.jpg"><br />
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-111" height="751" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8763-e1258611329369.jpg" title="IMG_8742" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8764-e1258611360806.jpg"><br />
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-111" height="751" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8764-e1258611360806.jpg" title="IMG_8742" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Bearded Lady = easiest costume ever.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
1 dress<br />
1 wig<br />
lipstick<br />
eyeshadow<br />
1 hairy man<br />
<br />
Mix thoroughly. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8782-e1258611368125.jpg"><br />
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-111" height="751" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8782-e1258611368125.jpg" title="IMG_8742" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8784.jpg"><br />
</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8733.jpg"></a><a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8784.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-116" height="266" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8784.jpg" title="IMG_8784" width="399" /></a><br />
<br />
The mime ballerina!<br />
<br />
I got the tutu at a thrift store, and sewed the halter top from a thrifted tuxedo shirt.<br />
The over skirt was thrifted silky black and red fabric cut into trapezoids and then sewn together, alternating each color.<br />
If I had more time, I would have put some elastic or a drawstring into the overskirt.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8733.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-110" height="266" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8733.jpg" title="IMG_8733" width="399" /></a><br />
<br />
I repressed my fear of clowns long enough to put make up on this poor innocent barista. <a href="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8759.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-122" height="751" src="http://thecraftivistshakedown.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/img_8759-e1258941618599.jpg" title="IMG_8759" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
The Amazing Stilt Girl!<br />
<br />
My coworker provided the talent, I provided the pants.<br />
Stilt pants are actually really easy to make.<br />
They are like PJ's with really long legs!<br />
<br />
Well. That was the story of my October.<br />
Happy November everyone!!<br />
<i>(</i><i>But Sam, November's almost over!)<br />
SHHH! </i><br />
<br />
:)Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13081808167390719275noreply@blogger.com2