Pomegranate Picnic

Cheap Date

2009-12-07T21:45:00.005-05:00

Feelin' a bit strapped for cash, especially as we enter the holiday season? Check out 3 Buck Bites where you can find meals for under $3.99.

Taco's from Cantina La Mexicana in Somerville $2.25-$2.95

Mango Dusted Fries from Mantra in Boston $2

Some Mezze at Sofra in Belmont $3

I can actually personally attest to this one. I love love love Sofra and all of their wonderful offerings. They have great breakfast and lunch in an adorable little setting. I will admit that their seating isn't the most comfortable, but they more than make up for it with pure charm.

Find all of these and more at 3buckbites.com

Don't live in Boston? There is also a page for Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Diego, Portland, San Fransisco Portland and Seattle.

Hello Adorable

2009-12-05T12:31:00.001-05:00

I am thoroughly in love with the work of Paola Zakimi, an Argentinian painter, printmaker,and doll maker. Her sweet little images conjure up beautiful ideas of childhood and innocence. There is something sad about the paintings that makes them none the less lovable, all the more beautiful.

Christoph Neimann is a Genius

2009-12-02T19:12:00.002-05:00

Check out Christoph Niemann's spectacularly witty leaf art.

Gotta Hand It Ta Ya

2009-12-01T19:02:00.002-05:00

We've all seen sock monkeys, but what about chipmunk softies? Finally a way to use your odd gloves.

Via Etsy

" " Records

2009-11-29T08:06:00.002-05:00

Hit up Quote Unquote Records for a free download of Laura Stevenson's sweet, quirky, eight-track album. Her sound is similar to CocoRosie, with a little bit of Mirah and Brooke Waggoner thrown in, as well as, of course, her own unique twist. Also, download her colaboration album Split, with Bomb The Music Industry.

Wild Animals

2009-11-28T10:46:00.009-05:00

Yesterday, I finally went to see The Fantastic Mr. Fox. Wes Anderson's adaptation of the Roald Dahl book was simply stupendous. The imagery was just beautiful, a true work of art. The animation was whimsical and fun, without being childish and armature. Indeed, it was not a movie for children, but rather the child within us all.

With George Clooney as the voice of Mr. Fox, Meryl Streep as Mrs. Fox, my ever favorite Jason Schwartzman as Ash, Bill Murray as Badger, and even Owen Wilson with the small roll of Coach Skip, it was a true Wes Anderson all-star cast.

With such amazong movies as The Royal Tennenbaums, The Darjeeling Limited, Bottle Rocket, The Life Aquatic and Rushmore already under his belt, Anderson is now able to add his first animated film to his already impressive resume. I don't think I will ever be able to truely comprehend how his mind works in such wonderful, quirky ways.

Bah Bah Black Friday

2009-11-27T07:13:00.001-05:00

Check out Raspberry Beret this Friday for a sweet deal. They have an excellent array of new and vintage, all at already reasonable prices. Plus, the woman who works there is by far the nicest, most helpful person I have ever encountered at a consignment store.

Thank You

2009-11-26T12:30:00.001-05:00

Multiplicity

2009-11-25T19:37:00.001-05:00

Nice Weather for Ducks

2009-11-22T14:53:00.001-05:00

My new favorite song.

Heaven Can Wait

2009-11-21T16:55:00.002-05:00

Charlotte Gainsbourg - Heaven Can Wait from Charlotte Gainsbourg on Vimeo.

I guarantee it will be the strangest (but none the less coolest) thing you have ever seen.

Tricka Tricka

2009-11-01T18:12:00.009-05:00

Oh, and Happy Halloween!

Shhh

2009-11-01T18:01:00.002-05:00

While reading the Sunday Secrets today I found this.

Cannibal Pumpkin

2009-10-07T20:09:00.007-04:00

Halloween is fast approaching, and what better way to celebrate than by making your very own cannibal pumpkin? (Click on the images to enlarge)

Cardon Copy

2009-10-05T17:15:00.001-04:00

"CARDON COPY, TAKES THE VERNACULAR OF SELF-

DISTRIBUTED FLIERS AND TEAR-OFFS WE HAVE ALL SEEN

IN OUR NEIGHBORHOODS. IT INVOLVES HIJACKING

THESE UNCONSIDERED FLIERS AND REDESIGNING THEM,

OVER POWERING THEIR MESSAGE WITH A NEW VISUAL

LANGUAGE. I THEN REPLACE THE ORIGINAL WITH THE

REDESIGN IN ITS AUTHENTIC ENVIRONMENT"

From

To

Fun Finds

2009-10-04T17:58:00.006-04:00

Ramona West has some spectacular new things for fall. I am particularly enamored with this tea dress. It combines two of my greatest loves; teal and lace. Although, I must admit that I have second thoughts about the sleeves. I would probably have to chop them off...

I am also particularly fond of these. Brown. Boots. What's not to love?

Sicknasty

2009-10-03T16:29:00.005-04:00

Duuuuuuude! I just saw these sicknasty rings by Valerie Rubinaccio via One Hot Child in the City

Personally, I find a lot of high fashion chain type things hard to pull off, but these are not too tough and I am always toting around a monstrousity of bangles and rings. And these beauties don't seem to heavy or fierce. They are just the right proportion of fierce. But for seventy bucks, I'm not sure they merrit the splurge.

The abbove pictures make them seem beautiful and, well, classy is not the right word, but...nice? Anyways, the pictures on the Valerie Rubinaccio site where you can actually purchase them look, well, cheap.

Cram Session

2009-09-28T18:32:00.008-04:00

I caved on my resolution not to buy shoes and clothing on Etsy anymore, since I often end up not liking what I buy. It is an unfortunate dilemma. It all looks so good online, but then once in my possession, most stuff is to big, or too small, or just plain not what it looked like in the pictures.

These boots, while totally adorable, make me feel like I have clown feet. I am so used to my Dr. Martin's, that while chunky, somehow give the illusion of small feet. Not that I have big feet; I am not even pretending to complain about my solid 7.5 tosies. However, the slenderness of the Justin boots, much like cowboy boots, do give the illusion of longer feet.

Oh, and they are a size 7. They fit, but certainly pinch. I am hoping that with some wear they will mold to my feet more accurately.

Now, this sweater that lookes oh-so-cute here, is shorter and baggier than I had invisioned. If you're going to be baggy, then be long. If you're going to be short, then be fitted. The combo of the two simply does not work on my body.

However, all is not lost. I am confident that I will be able to work both pieces into my wordrobe effectively.

Stretch It

2009-09-27T15:29:00.003-04:00

In a fit of complete un-me-ness I bought these:

I'm not quite sure what came over me. I tried them on as more of a joke, but when I stepped out of the dressing room to view myself in the full length mirror I was shocked to find that not only did they not repulse me, but I actually loved them in an odd way.

I also do not have a crazy-skinny bod like the ladies modeling in the pictures do, but somehow they don't look horrible.

My only complaint would be how high the pockets are. I love how the pockets take them past leggings, almost to the point of being pants. But this would be pulled off way more effectively if they were placed where pockets generally are.

Big Brown Bug Bag

2009-09-26T18:16:00.002-04:00

Somehow this past Sunday was my first foray into a flea market of the season. Which is almost over! However, my patience paid off and I ended up with a bag full of goodies.

First and foremost I scored the bestest tooled big brown bug bag that oh so perfectly fits all of my school things. From the same stand I scored a little red purse, as well as a pair of earrings and a ring that got thrown in with the bags.

In addition, I found two whole dresses, two flowery treys, a big flowered jar, a super snazzy old green kitchen scale, a metal bug bracelet, and some ridiculous bright teamster pins.

Sometimes my lack of digi-cam-ness is sad because I can't just snap some quick pictures to illustrate my words. Maybe I will snag a friends sometime soon because the bug bag is just too cool for words alone.

Monkeying Around

2009-09-23T07:21:00.004-04:00

I love the look of Snoozer Looser's new fall collection. Now, most of it I wouldn't actually wear due to a combination of price point and and just plain not my style. However, I simply love the way they incorporated monkeys into their photos in a way that is neither cheezey nor childish.

Hottt

2009-09-22T17:11:00.001-04:00

Want 5 free songs?

Grrrr

2009-09-21T19:52:00.004-04:00

Unfortunately, my budget will simply not allow for one of these fierce little lions to chomp away at my knuckles.

Made for Walking

2009-09-19T18:32:00.012-04:00

In a long list of my latest Etsy obsessions, Time Bomb Vintage in sittin' pretty at the top with an amazing selection of shoes.

First and foremost, these stellar red cowboy boots! However, there is no why that my 7.5/8 feet could possible be shoved into a 6.

At 6.5 these cowboy boots are edging closer to my very own size, but still missin' the boat.

Yet another pair of boots. 7.5! These little beauties just might make it into my closet after all...

I simply adore these, but on the other end of things mah feet would be swimming in a 10/10.5. My friend has a pair of these in green, which I am super lusting after. The search continues.

Another pair of 7.5s that just might make it into my closet. I've been looking for a good pair of sandals like these, however as it is September, and fast approaching real fall weather I think the boots would be a more appropriate investment.

And last but not least, I aimlpy adore these blue oxfords. I live the triangle detale on the front, and the simple sneaker-shoe combo. But alas, at a 7 even though I just might be able to squeeze into them, I think my toesies would be very angry with me.

Because Paul Says So

2009-09-16T20:53:00.002-04:00

Support Meat Free Monday from NOSUCHVIDEOS on Vimeo.

Introducing Meat Free Monday's. This comes at you not from vegetarians, but from the climate conscious side of things. Among many things, the site features recipes, famous celeb veggies, and restaurant reviews. And best of all, you can enter the competition to make a better theme song than Paul.

"Eat your vegetables, ride your bike, hug your parents and be polite. Dress however the hell you want."

2009-09-13T11:17:00.001-04:00

Anonymous Agent

Rosie Toesie

2009-09-08T22:05:00.002-04:00

Looksie what I found yesterday at Targer for $7.49. They are not quite my style; I'm more a sneakers and flats kinda girl, but I do love brown leather boots. I'm also not a huge fan of peep-toes, but I felt the need to branch out and snag a pair of heles. And at that price, how could I not?

Paper Heart

2009-09-07T23:12:00.000-04:00

On Friday I went to see Paper Heart. It was very off-beat and quirky. It was a bit slow for me, but I enjoyed it. I especially love how Yi illustrates some scenes with puppetry. She uses it sparingly, and in the most brilliantly placed moments.

The film is supposed to be a mocumentary slash documentary. I'm not quite sure that works, and I can't quite tell which is which...

"Combining elements of documentary and traditional storytelling, reality and fantasy, PAPER HEART brings a fresh perspective to the modern romance and redefines the classic love story."

It was definately a weird movie, but I liked it none the less, and recommend you see it. I went to see it at The Capitol Theater on Mass Ave. in Arlington. I havn't been to a movie there in a while, but I will be doing so more often from now on. Their matinees are $5 until 6pm, and regular tickets are $7. They also tend to have odd movies (they were the only ones showing Paper Heart), as well as keep movies longer than most other theaters.

Back It Up

2009-09-05T07:10:00.001-04:00

Ok, yeah sorry, one more thing. Each shirt has the details of the artist and charity on the back:

Which, hey, you totally wouldn't necessarily know because it's not in the main pictures, you have to go through the gallery thingy.

Yellow Bellied

2009-09-04T09:36:00.005-04:00

Go visit the Yellow Bird Project where you will find a lovely array of musical artist designed t-shirts. These shirts go for $25 a pop, the proceeds of which go to the artist's favorite charity. On the homepage you will see a quick glance of all of the shirts. See one you're interested in? Click on it and you will see a little blurb on the artist, and one on the charity.

Most of them come only in the color displayed, which is both good and bad. On the one hand, some of my favorite designs are on my not-so-favorite colors, which stinks. On the other hand, some of my favorite designs are on my not-so-favorite colors, which prevents me from going crazy and buying all of them. All are printed on 100% cotton American Apparel T's.

My top three at the moment are:

These three have saved me from myself by being printed on baby blue and kelly green, two colors I do not really wear. However, I love love love the designs.

Designed by Stars for Le Chainon

Designed by Of Montreal for St. Jude Children's Research Center

Designed by Clap Your Hands Say Yeah for Art For Change

The only other problem is deciding between a t-shirt design I really love, and a band that I really love, and a charity that I really love. I think my favorite tee is the King Creosote for Greenpeace, but he is not my favorite artist, nor is it my favorite charity. Bon Iver and The National are my favorite artists, but the Bon Iver tee is cool, but not worth $25, and I do like The Nationsl's tee, however, it's not my absolute favorite. And as for the charities, well, ll are good causes, so I'm not even going to attempt to add that to my prediciment.

Oh, and just fyi, shipping is USPS $6 for the first shirt, then $2 for all after that, or FedEx $7 + $1.50 for all after that. OH, and they accept returns for 60 days! Minus the shipping, of course.

And as if all that wasn't cool enough, you can download their theme song for free! BUT WAIT, one more! You can listen to their mix tape by some of the artists!!

Lost

2009-09-03T06:39:00.001-04:00

Just Be

2009-09-02T07:07:00.004-04:00

Photos

Kids These Days

2009-09-01T09:37:00.000-04:00

It Went Where

2009-08-31T13:41:00.001-04:00

Killer blog.

Handshake Heartbreak

2009-08-30T10:41:00.001-04:00

OK, so I know that this is a wee bit old, but it makes me so happy. This is by far the best lookbook I have ever seen. Although, the pieces for purchase are not nearly as stellar as the ones in said lookbook. Anyways, enjoy!

Handshake Heartbreak from Jojo & Malou on Vimeo.

Where is My Mind

2009-08-29T07:48:00.009-04:00

Do yourself a favor and check out these astounding Styrofoam cup drawings by Cheeming Booey. I mean seriously, how can one person have so much talent? He has at least four different distinct drawing styles.

!

2009-08-28T22:49:00.000-04:00

I neeeeeeeeed one of these bikes! Now, which bank to rob?

Well Spoken

2009-08-27T20:43:00.001-04:00

As I am ever in search for the prefect bicycle, I simply adore these shots from The Sartorialist

do it to it.

2009-08-26T18:18:00.001-04:00

Oh, and you can make your own picnic wrap here

Num Num Chronicles

2009-08-26T18:03:00.007-04:00

Lisa Butterworth of One Hot Child in the City has teamed up with Caroline Hwang of The Space In-Between to create this sweet lil blog, The Num Num Chronicles.

Picnic anyone?

Lovely Day

2009-08-22T14:58:00.001-04:00

I simply love these photos from Lillyan Lilac

I just want to jump in!

Oh, and I have a super-maga crush on this boy!

Buster

2009-08-16T21:21:00.001-04:00

From Passive Aggressive Notes
Via Timbuk2 Blog

Blocked Up

2009-08-14T17:44:00.001-04:00

Remember waking up to drunk-dialed voicemails from your friends? Remember the laughs they brought you? Now, how many of you remember being on the other end of these? Perhaps not. Now, you can save face with the Bad Decision Blocker from Boston College alum John Genest.

Happy Hour

2009-08-12T17:48:00.000-04:00

Looking for some good, pocket-friendly eats around Boston? Well, you're in luck! Head over to Rocca for $5 pizzas, flatbreads and more from 5-7pm, Monday-Thursday.

Or, check out Masa for a $5 tapas combo plate from 5-7pm weekdays, plus all night on Thursdays

Best yet, scoot on over to Kickass Cupcakes for FREE cocktail inspired mini cupcakes from 5-7pm on the last Monday of every month.

Freshhhh

2009-08-11T18:30:00.001-04:00

Summer is more than half over, so your time to hit up your local farmers market is running out! Along with the veggies I scored, I snapped these beauties at one in Central Square.

Brats

2009-08-10T18:33:00.001-04:00

Munchlers

2009-08-10T07:58:00.002-04:00

If this were a full sized backpack I would buy it in a heartbeat. I will however, be purchasing the lunchbox.

Pack It In

2009-08-09T18:24:00.011-04:00

I've been on a super-search for the perfect backpack, and have found quite a few contenders, but none have won. Most are way out of my price range. They also happen to come mostly from Japan. Why is American so lame?

$90

$350

$194

$90

$60

This one is affordable, but I have a friend who is obsessed with sharks, so I have to show this to her and let her get it

Julie & Julia

2009-08-09T07:03:00.005-04:00

I went to see Julie & Julia, and I have been searching for the right words to describe it. I wouldn't go so far as to say that it was marvelous or fantastic, but it was indeed a good movie. It was whitty and charming, and had the entire audiance in quite good spirits. The croud was an older one; more towards my mothers age than my own, and while I didn't laugh quite as hard as most, I did find all of the same parts funny.

Afterwards, I mentioned that I loved her appartment, to which my mother responded "The one in Paris?" To which I responded, "No, the one in Queens." That got a lot of laughs. But I was serious! It had a really great old feel with a lot of wood, and a lot of open spaces.

Of course they had to use Meryl Streep as Julia, how could anyone else possible fit the role so perfectly? Although, there was definately something odd about seeing her once again with Stanley Tucci; from cold boss and very gay underling, to kinnd woman whom everyone loves and adoring husband was a big transition.

Corn

2009-08-08T05:50:00.003-04:00

This is simple and elegant, aclectic and dainty, and I wish it were mine.

Banditos Misteriosos

2009-08-08T00:43:00.001-04:00

"Banditos Misteriosos is an organization composed of numerous Bostonians who walk around Boston and ask two simple questions:

Who are these people we pass in the street?

How could we use those big open public spaces?

To answer these questions, we refer to our belief that we all have the capacity for “selective immaturity”, that we are all willing to step out of our shells for a brief moment and act like fools with our fellow Bostonians.

All we need is a time and a place. Banditos Misteriosos aims to answer that call to arms.

Our events have the goal of getting Bostonians participating in ways just a little out of the ordinary, while all the meanwhile utilizing the cities great public spaces. Every event is open to all ages, safe and most importantly, free.

To get involved in the planning-committee, merely send us an email at: contact@misteriosos.org

Participation is the Medium.

The City is the Medium.

Fun is the Medium."

Check it out!

Duuuuude

2009-08-06T21:15:00.003-04:00

Cycling, lasers. All is good in the world.

Shop It To Me

2009-08-04T20:47:00.002-04:00

I was recently alerted to this spectacular web site that tells you when all of your favorite brands have sales. And it's not just the high end ones. Sure there are those like Prada and Dolce & Gabana that are still unattainable even at a sale price, but Shop It To Me offers over 600 women's brands, over 300 men's brands, and over 100 kid's brands from Old Navy to American Apparel to 7 For All Mankind to Alexander Wang to Chanel to any other price point.

You start by selecting a base of the type of items you would like to receive notices about; women's, men's, boys, girls.

Then, you choose the type of items you would like to receive notices about; dresses, outerwear, intimates, sleepwear, denim, dress pants, suits, blazers, casual pants, jewlrey, hangbags, belts, shoes, tees, sweaters, jeans, atletic shirts, atletic pants, skirts, casual shirts, dress shirts. (this list is similar, but differs slightly for men).

Next, you choose which sizes you would like to recieve notices about, with different options for tops (including neck size and sleeve length for men), bottoms, shoes, and intamates.

You can recieve e-mail updates daily or weekly. In the e-mail you will see an abreviated version of notices; go to the bottom of the page to click on a link that will take you to the full list.

Spangled

2009-08-03T17:22:00.001-04:00

"Every rapper says if I was not doing this, I would be in jail. And basically, I'm a rapper, only I'm a photographer. So if I wasn't doing this, I would definitely be in jail."

HI-larious little interview with Scott Schuman of the Sartotialist

p.s. You can pre-order the book, scheduled to drop in 8 far away days,!

The Time Has Come

2009-08-02T12:56:00.005-04:00

The American Apparel store is now open in Wrentham!!! I am having a bit-0-trouble containing myself.

No Paparazzi

2009-08-02T08:40:00.000-04:00

Ahahahahaha

The Course of a Life

2009-07-24T09:16:00.009-04:00

After months and months of waiting, I finally saw (500) Days of Summer. I have been eagerly awaiting its release ever since I saw an ad for it on spring break. Spring break! That was a long time ago.

It was a very charming, unexpected movie. It is by no means your classic love story; it's quirky. But that only adds to its delightfullness. I love the way that time jumps around in no particular order, but makes perfect sense. I love the illustrations that pop in and out. I love the chemistry between Zooey and Joe. I love the outfits Zooey and Joe wear. I love Zooey and Joe in general as actors. And I love, love, love the soundtrack!

I must admit that I wasn't enthralled by the ending; it basically worked, however there were elements of it that I would have changed. And don't worry, I won't tell you what they are so as not to ruin the movie for anyone who wishes to see it. Which I strongly suggest!

RCRD LBL PCK TH WK

2009-07-23T07:48:00.001-04:00

Telekinesis

Photos

A Very Happy Birthday to Another Teen

2009-07-22T19:16:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I was watching Sixteen Candles and was reminded of the greatness that is 80's fashion. Sure, some of it was wacko (as are parts of any time), and a portion of the hair leaves a bit to be desired, but it is the general feel of the whole of it that amazes. It is the way that everyone seemed to care about what they put on every morning. And not in the whatlabelareyouwearing high brow fashionista way of today.

Especially so in the trifecta of Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Pretty in Pink you see the delicate way that outfits are constructed with care; not because people were all shallow back then, but because they cared enough not to look like slobs all the time. And boy did these ladies know how to accessorize; hats, necklaces, pins, scarves, bags, etc.

Even the geeks looked put together at all times in button downs, sweaters, sweater vests and nerdy tee's.

A Very Happy Birthday to My Little Brother

2009-07-20T08:16:00.011-04:00

Photo

Photo

Photo

Photo

Photo

Photo

Bubbles and Balloons

2009-07-18T10:30:00.001-04:00

Photos

Shop It To Me

2009-07-17T18:20:00.000-04:00

P is for Pair

2009-07-16T17:51:00.001-04:00

Photos

RCRD LBL PCK TH WK

2009-07-15T18:38:00.001-04:00

Class Actress

Crackle Pop

2009-07-14T20:35:00.005-04:00

Click to enlarge this wonderfully hilarious how-to on being captured by the Sartorialist.

Oblong Delight

2009-07-14T20:16:00.001-04:00

Looking for a change from the ordinary pizza? Try Zing!, a blossoming pizzeria in Porter Square.

Everything about Zing! is unusual; from the oblong, ovular pizza shape, to the 100% recyclable waste. Zing! pizzas are thin crust, piled with the freshest, highest quality ingredients. They have your average cheese and pepperoni, but then they have others like the Blue October. It starts off with a squash sauce. On top of this sits a layer of mozzarella, baby spinach, and caramelized onions. To top it off, there is a sprinkling of bleu cheese. Now, I have to admit, at first this did not seem an appetizing option; the squash sauce inticed me, however, I am not a fan of bleu cheese. But somehow, this wonderful combo managed to wow my tastebuds, and three slices later I could barely walk.

Even the perperoni has its own twist; made with all natural vegetarian fed beef and pork, they resemble a donought, rather than the hole (instead of little circles, they are big ones with no middle). There are always four of five offerings that change, if not daily, often. However, the cheese stays, as does the Blue October; the former being a classic, the latter being a hit.

Nothing served or sold is trash; all can be recycled, so if you eat in, when you walk over to dispose of leftovers, there is a place for everything. Three different signs sit over your three choices. In the middle sits a bin for plates, cups and silverware. To the left is a hole in which to place your paper recycling which include napkins and recycled paper plates. To the right is hole in which to place your glass bottles.

It's a small place with four window seats, and only five or six tables. It is lovely and delicious and I strongly suggest you check it out.

Discover Magic

2009-07-13T21:46:00.002-04:00

Check out the fantabulous new LP from Rotsam Batmanglij of Vampire Weekend and and Wes Miles of Ra Ra Riot

Or Blue

2009-07-12T19:12:00.006-04:00

Photos

Today, I went to the beach again. This time for a bit more r and r. Again, a 2009 summer first I am afraid to say. I only spent fifteen minutes in the water (about the time it took for me to fully submerge myself in the cold water). After that I took a little siesta in the warm rays. It wasn't quite as hot as yesterday, but rather lovely and warm and sun-kissed.

I am such a west coast girl at heart; I love the beach hair that the salt water gives me (if only beach body worked the same way), the sand between my toes, the sun on my back, and even the feeling of that sunscreen/ocean film that coats my body after a day at the beach. I would love to be a beach bum for a summer; get a job on the beach and spend all my free time sailing, swimming and hitting up local flea markets. If I could get a group together to do this with me and split rent, I would be such a happy camper! I don't think I would last at this for a life goal, but a summer of it sounds wonderful.

I managed to snap some shots today, however they were on the Holga, not the Polaroid, so the posting of them will have to wait until I can find the time and location to develop and print a few. I really hope that they come out; Holga's can be so unpredictable. Which is part of the charm of course.

B is for Bouyancy

2009-07-12T09:51:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I embarked upon my first sailing outting of the summer. I remember when I was little and my parents planned my days; we would go sailing every nice weekend! Alas, I am now old enough to plan my own days, and don't have quite the same amount of time to spare. Or the weather for that matter.

Anywhosie, it was really hot yesterday and I was super excited as we got going, however I was more shocked than I had expected to be when I got the first blast of waves. The water temperature stood in stark contrast to the air around it. Yikes! My dad has a Hobie Cat, which is what they call a wet sail boat. It looks like the one at the top of the page, however that is not it. The color is called Tequila Sunrise. Hopefully I will have some photo opportunities next time.

The wind was strong, and my brother was on a bit of an adrenaline rush. Know how I know? Because he was shouting, "Woah! The adreniline is serging! Dude! Bob Dole! Bob Dole! Oh mylanta! The adreniline is kicking in!" The boy could do with a chill pill.

Non-Photo Blue

2009-07-09T20:14:00.001-04:00

For those of you who live in and around Newtonville, I strongly recommend you hit up Newtonville Camera for all of your photo needs. (Oh, and of course, I'm talking film. I believe that they cater to the digital demographic, but I can not speak to that since I flatly refuse to purchase a digital camera.) This has been my tried-and-true one-stop camera shop since my first photography class freshman year. They have a pretty sizable counter devoted to used cameras, which is nice for me because I seem to be cursed. I have had three cameras in the past two years. Yikes!

And of course, they have the usual assortment of film and paper, but in addition to their already low prices, they have a 10% student discount! They also develop and print film at a very reasonable rate. Personally, I like to do that myself. However, I would like to get a roll or two of color Holga film done at some point.

Bandits

2009-07-08T21:05:00.005-04:00

Photo

On Sunday I went shopping and did surprisingly well. I have has zero luck in the way of clothing purchases lately, which is a good thing, as my bank account has become much fuller in response. But I scored 3 bras, a pair of black jeans, a light jacket, and some super fun boxers for my little bro's birthday. I have actually been needing all of those, and the best part is that even after my $16 sushi lunch, I returned home having spent less than $130. Oh Wrentham, how you please me.

The Color Purple

2009-07-07T21:04:00.003-04:00

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I need more of purple. It is such a lovely color, but somehow it is seriously lacking from my wordrobe. Although I am in constant search, it is difficult to find a nice purple. I have a lot of blues and greens and reds; it is easy to find shades that I like. But purple is hard. I have one purple dress, one purple shirt, one purple hat that i knitt, and two pairs of purple undies. Oh, and I found some lovely purple nail polish yesterday.

Again?

2009-07-06T20:42:00.002-04:00

Due to the endless rain that has blessed us (which is mercifully on hiatus), I was sitting around watching VH1 the other day, and stumbled across one of their 'greatest' shows. This one happened to be the 40 Greatest Internet Superstars, and I was reminded of this little baby:

Ok Go - Here It Goes Again from Joshwa on Vimeo.

I'm not sure how people stand on the coolness of this video, or whathaveyou, but it just makes me smile. I particularly like when they go straight across the treadmills as if skating. Ahh, the beauty.

Consign Me Up

2009-07-05T17:15:00.001-04:00

A few days ago I did a piece on Second Time Around, and I thought that it would be useful to compile a larger list of consignment services in and around Boston, so here ya go:

Porch and Wardrobe in Arlington
For current, older (as in age; it's my mom's favorite) pieces. 10 week consignment period.
Call 781-641-3325 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 40% of the final selling price.

Wearovers in Bedford
For designer. 9 week consignment period minimum.
No appointment necessary.
You will receive 40% of the final selling price.

The Closet on Newbury st. in Boston
For designer. 60 day consignment period.
Call 617-536-1919 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 40% of the final selling price.

Encore Exchange in Brookline
For designer. Clothing is consigned until the end of the season, 1 year for jewelry.
Call 617-566-4544 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 50% of the final selling price.

Eva B in Brookline
For anything in season. 60 day consignment period.
Call 617-487-4488 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 40% of the final selling price.

Raspberry Beret in Cambridge
For mint condition current, recycled, vintage and more.
60 day consignment period.
Call 617-354-3700 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 40% of the final selling price.

The Closet Exchange in Needham
For everything; Old Navy to Chanel. 60 day consignment period.
Call 71881-449-7344 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 50% of the final selling price.

Lisa's Closet in Newtonville
For vintage.
Call 617-340-3091 to set up an appointment.
(Lisa is a bit erratic)

Second Appearance in Newtonville
For anything in season. 60 day consignment period.
Call 617-527-7655 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 40% of the final selling price.

Finders Keepers in Quinsy
For current fashions. 60 day consignment period.
Call 617-328-5775 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 50% of the final selling price.

Poor Little Rich Girl in Somerville
For current styles and vintage. 60 day consignment period.
Call 617-684-0157 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 40% of the final selling price.

Raspberry Beret in Wakefield
For mint condition current, recycled, vintage and more.
60 day consignment period.
Call 781-245-2293 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 40% of the final selling price.

Turnabout Shoppe in Wellesley
For designer.
Call 781-237-4450 to set up an appointment.
You will receive 50% of the final selling price.

For all locations, make sure your clothing is neat and clean. Different stores have different preferences as to folded vs. hangers, so ask when you call. They all take in season woman's clothing, and most take shoes, bags, and other accessories as well. In addition, policies on what to do with unsold clothing once the consignment period is over vary. Most, if not all will donate the clothing if you would like, some you can set up a time to pick them up, and some will only donate them. Appoints last from about 20-30 minutes. So go clean out your closets and get some cash!

Any Sun

2009-07-04T21:20:00.001-04:00

Two sunny days in a row! I decided to take a walk around my neighborhood this morning to celebrate the fantastic weather, and came across a yard sale. Cleverly concealed between a basket and a tin, I found an old Polaroid camera! I have been looking for a new one ever since I took mine to school and had it stolen. I snatched up that little sucker as fast as I could and paid $2. It even had two pictures left in it!

I spent a lovely day doing all of the errands that have needed to be done for quite some time, which didn't give me much photo opportunity. However, around sunset I ventured out and found myself in front of this old abandoned house in my neighborhood. Looking up at its crickety old mystery, I snapped that. To my delight, the camera snapped, and ghostly looking square popped out. (It even had a working flash!). Minutes later, I had this little beauty:

The color isn't as strong as it could be; partially because the film had been sitting in the camera for who knows how long, and partially because there is always a loss of quality with a scan.

Skip The Patriotism

2009-07-04T04:01:00.006-04:00

Yet another American Apparel warehouse event that I will be missing out on. If you live in LA, you have been given a second chance you lucky dog! American Apparel is having another flea market for you folks! Today and tomorrow, head on over to 747 Warehouse st. for music, tacos, cotton candy, a dunk tank, snow cones, and of course, super discounted apparel! What more could you ask for?

But wait! Even if you don't live in LA, you can still get a super deal online. Check it out.

Sonny Boy

2009-07-03T20:57:00.002-04:00

Photo

Boy, was it sunny today! It's been raining for about a month, and the forecast calls for at least another ten days. I feel like I'm living in Seattle.

I Dream Of Geanie

2009-07-03T08:12:00.006-04:00

Photos

Last night I had this dream where I was at my school and I was holding this big pink balloon. It was about twice the size of a normal balloon, and had a HUGE string. The helium in it was so strong that it would lift me up and I would float about a foot above the ground for a few seconds. Then, I would glide back down, only to go right back up shortly after. I wonder what this means. Probably that I was more affected (effected? I never get this right) by the movie Up than I realized.

RCRD LBL PCK TH WK

2009-07-02T23:06:00.002-04:00

Crocodiles!

Eye Sea

2009-07-02T22:55:00.004-04:00

These ultra-vamped librarian glasses just make me laugh. I would never be bold enough to wear them, and I don't think that I would want to be. BUT it is nice to see something so classic turned into something so funky.

Afternoon Delight

2009-06-30T21:26:00.003-04:00

I always forget about the wonderful world of the matinee, but boy is it swell. Last Thursday I finally went to see Up in the afternoon and was delighted when the lady responded "That will be $6.75 please" to my request for one ticket to the 2:50 showing of Up.

It turned out to be this summers Wall-E; Pixar's much hyped summer kid flick that everyone sees. Like Wall-E the hype was so strong that by the time I finally went to see it I was a bit let down. It was oh so overrated. Since everyone said that it was AMAZING, I was expecting perfection. It was a lovely movie, and I think I would have enjoyed it a lot more if people hadn't raved so much; my expectations were too high. And if I had paid eleven dollars to see it, I would have been upset. BUT, for six seventy-five, I was content.

I'm often hesitant to go to movies because after popcorn and a drink, if I don't like said movie that's twenty bucks I'll never see again. However, I was pleasantly reminded that most movie theaters have a matinee price of about $6.75 for shows that start before 6pm (Generally. Check your local movie theatre for individual times).

Plus, since movie theater popcorn makes me feel queesy I pop my own at home, which is much better for my wallet and my health. Grab a bag of kernels at your local grocery store, drizzle a tiny bit of canola oil on the bottom of a pot (the recipie on the bag calls for about 3 tablespoons, but that is complete nonsense. A dabb really will do ya, I promise!), add said kernels, and await magic! When they are all good and popped, grab a brown bag (those used for elementary school lunches work best), fill 'er up, sprinkel with salt, roll down the top, shake, and pack into bag/purse like item.

Finally, toss a reusable waterbottle in your bag, and head out to your marvilous movie (who's price you have just cut in half)! This way, you can see twice as many movies. Or, buy other cool things with your extra cash.

Pumpkin Pie

2009-06-29T18:03:00.010-04:00

I was going through a pile of baby pictures a while ago and found a bunch of me wearing these super cute pumpkin, strawberry, and raspberry hats. I asked my mom where she had gotten them, and she told me that a friend of hers had knit them for me! I got super excited and asked said friend for the pattern, which appeared magically in by inbox a few days later! I didn't do an actual fruit; mine is white with a green stem, but its pretty fly all the same. I don't have a picture of it, but the one above is me when I was a wee little one. I also made a set for a friends twin girls; one white with a green stem, one green with a white stem. You can't see them super well in the picture, but it's the best I got.

Here's the pattern so you can make your very own! (If you click on the, they get bigger)

Sarah Sze

2009-06-28T10:11:00.003-04:00

Is effing amazing! You seriously gotta check this lady out! Her spectacular instalations leave me wanting to make my very own, but knowing that nothing I could ever do would even come close. Her use of everyday objects in big open spaces; sometimes on the floor, sometimes on the wall, sometimes on the ceiling, sometimes right through the middle, capture such geometry and form.

Holgagraphy

2009-06-27T20:33:00.011-04:00

A few weeks ago I finally purchased a Holga camera. Not one of those crazy $80 dollar ones that they sell at Urban Outfitters, but a real one from an actual camera store (not my store of choice, but it was close and I couldn't get to my favorite in time). My first roll yielded two good prints, which is pretty good as Holga's go. You can usually hope for one or two good prints from each 12/16 frame roll. I was really looking forward to the square frame that they are famous for, but didn't realize that you have tp rip out the insert first, so this roll is rectangular.

Of course these look much better in person; the scanning distorts the coloring slightly, but I think they still look nice. In the actual print you can see more detail in the man's face.

Another thing that I love about Holga's are the double exposures. Since you wind it yourself to go to the next frame, and there is no machinery to stop you from taking another picture while in the same frame as with standard film cameras, all you have to do is snap again and you have two pictures in one! I haven't quite mastered this yet, but when done right it can yield very pleasing results.

Photo

I recently came across this blog, devoted to both black and white as well as color photos taken with these beauties. I really love the color prints; they have that Polaroidish glow to them. The only thing I don't like about color is that 99% of darkrooms are black and white, so you have to have a photo store do the developing and printing, which I feel takes away from the sense of ownership over your work.

I'm Not Here Right Now

2009-06-27T08:18:00.003-04:00

But if you live in the area, get off your stinkin' butt, shut the computer and head over! The did one in LA a few weeks ago, and are now in New York. Here's hoping they mosey on over to Boston next.

Blood Bank

2009-06-27T07:38:00.001-04:00

Aside from being a stellar song from Bon Iver, it is a pretty swell place to visit. You can save up to four lives every time you donate blood. The entire process takes about thirty minutes. So for every seven and a half minutes you take out of your day, you save a life. You are eligible to give blood every eight weeks. The most important times to give blood are in the summer and the winter because that is when shortages most occur. Although, any time is of course a good time.

According to hospitals, the most common reason that people don't give blood is that they were never asked. So I'm asking you now, go give blood! It will make a world of difference.

However, there are a few things that would prevent you from donating blood. First of all, you need to be at least 16 years of age, and weigh at least 110 pounds. If you are 16 your parents need to sign a consent form, but if you are 17 all you need is an ID (which applies to the 16 year old too).

When you go you will be asked to fill out a form with all of your information, and then one that asks a slew of medical and sexual questions that they will use to determine if you are a worthy candidate. They range from weather or not you have taken aspirin or other pain relievers in the past 72 hours, to a cleverly side-stepped question as to weather or not you have ever been a prostitute.

Shortly after you have finished with your form you will be called into a room where someone will go over your form with you and ask any questions they may have about your answers. For example, on of the questions was to whether or not you have had a piercing in the last 12 months. I answered 'yes' and she asked where it was (second hole my right ear), when I had gotten it (about 12 months ago) and if it had been done with a gun (yes) so I was all set.

Once you have passed that with flying colors, you will be tested for anemia. They prick your finger (which, to my surprise, didn't hurt at all), put the blood on a little disk, insert it into a machine, and voila! Now you know. If you want to prevent anemia at the time of blood donation, eat a lot of iron rich foods in the days preceding your blood donation. Like hamburgers and dark greens. You can be anemic one time, and then not the next.

Finally, they check your blood pressure. Mine was really low, which apparently is good for life, but not for blood donation. But no worries! You will not be turned away for this. At Children's Hospital Boston, my donation site of choice, they have a little snack are where you can sit for ten minutes with a salty snack and a drink. When I went, the only salty snack they had were Cheese-It's, so if you're a vegan, bring a bag of chips or other vegan-friendly snack.

After about ten minutes, they check your blood pressure again, and most likely you will be all set to go! You sit in a big cross between a chair and examining table. It's like a blood test, but more intense. They give you a stress ball to squeeze to pump the blood, and put a blood pressure cuff on your upper arm for the same reason. Then, they wipe the area with alcohol, only for way longer and firmer than a blood test. Finally comes the needle. It's a bit bigger than the one used for a blood test, but don't be put off by that. It doesn't really hurt more. Maybe a tiny bit, but not much.

So now you are ready to give blood! Just make sure you are well hydrated (it makes your veins plumper, and prevents fainting) and have eaten. (gives you a higher blood pressure, and also prevents fainting).
Call Children's Hospital at 617-355-6677, or your local hospital to make an appointment. At Children's an appointment is not required, you can go anywhere from 9am-7pm Monday-Thursday or 9am-4pm on Friday, although an appointment guarantees your desired time. You can also donate at many blood drives that may be closer to you, however what I like about Children's is that once your information is entered into the system, it's there. You dont' have to fill out a form every time. You do have to re-fill out the medical form because it askes questions pertaining to the day, and the few before, so answers are subject to change.

Around And Around We Go

2009-06-26T21:50:00.001-04:00

Do you live in Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont or DC? Do you wear a small to medium portion of your closet ninety percent of the time? Then, my friends, it is high time you divested yourself of the clutter, folded it into neat little piles, put it in a bag, and hauled it off to Second Time Around. You can set up an appointment online, or by phone.

They accept in season, in style, new, used and vintage pieces. They say designer, but they take from Prada, to Anthropology, to Michael Stars. There is a fairly incomplete list of accepted designers, and no formal list of unnaccpeted, however Target, Wet Seal, Old Navy, and others in that range will not be accepted.

If you live in Massachusetts, go to the Harvard Square location if your colset contains things from American Apparel, Urban Outfitters, Ralph Lauren, Michael Stars, The Gap, Anthropology, cool vintage peices, most any designer jeans, and the like. Basically anything you would buy in Harvard Square. They are the most accepting of more funky, young stuff.

The same goes for Newbury Street's two locations, although to a lesser extent. They are a bit more highbrow.

By far the oldest and snobyest is the Wellsley location. So if your closet contains high rollers like Prada, Gucci, True Religion, Polo Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade, Burburry, and the like, go here.

All locations have a 3 piece minimum, and a 30 piece maximum for each 30 minute appointment. Your stuff will be stashed there for 90 days, and after that you have one week to pick it up, or it will be donated. The longer your stuff stays, the cheeper it gets, but the same goes for the things you purchase.

Pay day comes four times a year, and has nothing to do with when you consign. You will recieve forty percent of the final selling price. It may not seem like a lot, but I would much rather have a few dollers for each peice of unworn clothing I own, and know it has found a nice home where it will be loved then let it sit in my closet untouched. Plus, it's a form of recycling, so you are helping the planet!

By far the best part about consigning here is that you can check the status of your peices online. When you go for your first time they will create an account for you, and an itemized profile will be up before closing that same day. So you can see what sells when for what amount. So what are you waiting for? Get to it.

Tee Time (Part 2)

2009-06-26T21:05:00.001-04:00

Another spectacular t-shirt biz is New York based Jawmaker. With a wide range of simple and complex Aztec, M.I.A. inspired designs, it is amazing I'm not broke. I have exercised a great amount of control not going crazy buying these up. With about fifty-five colorbook-looking tee's just waiting to be costomized with at least eighteen different colors in crew neck, v-neck and deep v-neck, men's and woman's styles, over forty paint colors, with the option of a custom design the possiblilities are literally endless.

Tee Time

2009-06-26T20:15:00.003-04:00

I often open my wardrobe to a huge pile of t-shirts and wonder how I have accumulated so many. There are so numerous other styles to chose from; blouses, button downs (I do have a fair amount of those to, I must admit), tank tops, etc. etc. But with such amazing options, how can I resist?

Above is the most recent Tee from T-Post, a Swedish company that prints a new T every six weeks featuring a picture relating to a news story, with said story printed inside the American Apparel T. The only downside is that you can't pick and chose, so at about thirty-seven dollars a pop, they're a bit pricey. When asked if returns are accepted, the way they put it is "Uh, no. Once you get a subscription it's yours. It's just like if you had a subscription to National Geographic: you can't send back an issue just because you're not interested in learning about the tribes of the Serengeti."

They make a valid point, however, National Geographic isn't at the same price point, nor do you have to wear it if you're not a fan of the photographs. Looking through the gallery of former issues, I like about half, which would make every one I did like double in price; about seventy-four dollars. In Sweden, T-Post costs about half of your average t-shirt, but unfortunately, the price is lost in translation.

And since part of the charm of T-Post is their uniqueness, there are no back issues. They print exactly the number ordered. So take a look at the gallery, and if a good percentage of them appeal to you, go for it! I am still undecided.

RCRD LBL

2009-06-26T19:46:00.001-04:00

RCRD LBL is a record label for the technological age. Based online, it offers a wide array of upcoming music, from rap to dance to indie to rock to electronic to punk to almost anything you could possibly think of. Some tracks can only be heard online on the sight, but most can be downloaded for your enjoyment any time. I thoroughly reccomend Miike Snow, Passion Pit, No Kids, Blitzen Trapper, Born Ruffians, Santigold, and of corurse, the ever ingenious Andrew Bird to name a few. Check it out!

Inspiration Point

2009-06-26T19:05:00.001-04:00

The three blogs that I follow are as follows:

Ringo Have A Banana

I can not handle the high fashion blogs. They are way to intense for me. a) I don't like the setup of the blogs themselves. b) I am just not into high fashion.

I consider myself a fairly well dressed person, with a keen sense of what works for me, and what does not. I am not a slob, but I am certainly no supermodel either. So expect some fashion, but that will not be my main focus. Ringo brings the perfect amount into her lovely posts. I super love her outfit posts, however I do not think that that will be a feature of my blog due to my refusal to buy a digital camera. Everyone in my family, as well as most everyone in our high tech world owns one, but i simply can not bring myself to do it. I love photography, and I can not handle the loss of image quality, as well as the feeling of pride over an image.

That being said, I do understand that outfit posts, and other such everyday photos are not art, and a digital photo of this would be quite acceptable. However, this does not seem a good enough reason to make the purchase.

Anyways, back to Siri. She displays a wide range of of posts from her love of the magazines such as RUSSH to food to music. And speaking of music, her best boy just happens to be a member of The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, an excellent band. Download four of their songs for free here.

Hot Child In The City

Lisa writes short and sweet tidbits on a veriaty of things that she experices. Tending towards photographs to do her storytelling, it is quite astetically pleasing. She tends towards art and the art side of fashion in magazine spreads.

I'm Boy Crazy

Alexi brings an unabashed view to the world of boys. It is absolutely crazy, but absolutely awesome. It is not at all what I will be doing in my blog, but I felt the need to mention it, because I follow it just as regularly as the others. Take everything she says with a grain of salt, and you will be all set. My favorite feature of hers are The Blind Leading The Blind posts, where she dishes out life advice. Here is the most recent.

New Begninngs

2009-06-26T18:15:00.002-04:00

Somewhere along the way I became the reader of several blogs. It started with one that I read because it was written by a friend. On the right of her page is a list of all of the other blogs that she follows. I checked out a few, and found another that I liked. From there I stumbled across another, etc. etc. Sometimes I would read a few posts, get bored, and move on. Other times, I would fall in love; sit in front of my computer for hours perusing the archives. When that was over, my eyes stinging from over exposure to the screen, I would have just enough energy to bookmark the page before closing my laptop and allowing my eves a nap. I learned a lot from many blogs; this I liked, things I didn't. Some days when there were no new posts on my much loved blogs I would click on the links to their favorite blogs, and then jump over to blogs that those bloggers had linked. It seemed as though I spent just as much time searching for blogs as I did reading them. And then it hit me. Instead of going on an almighty quest for the perfect blog, why didn't I just create it?