all those nothings

Wine for thought

2010-07-22T20:02:00.000-07:00

Earlier this afternoon, I stopped in a local market to pick something up for work when I saw some some of the best wine label design ever. The wine was called Bear Flag, from good ole Modesto, California. And, the illustrator who did labels for them is Eduardo Bertone. I'm more of a minimalist artist, myself, but in this case, I love all that's going on on the label and everything there is to get lost in.

Although I didn't buy a bottle today, I'm seriously considering getting one for "The Bachelorette" night this coming Monday. However, I must admit I'm nervous for two reasons. 1) I'm so intrigued and excited by the label, I'm just hoping the taste of the wine is as good as its appearance and not a let down. 2) It's a twist-off cap. That right there would normally steer me away. I feel like all true, good wine should come packaged with a cork. Though I do appreciate the efforts at making wine easier to open.

Enough with my rambling, though. I'll try the wine next week. Give it a shot. And, will report back. In the meantime, check out Bear Flag's Web site. More coolness to look at there.

First pic found via {Hire an illustrator!}

A new Amy

2010-07-14T20:05:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling the urge lately to transform some areas of my life. So far, the list includes, but is not limited to: getting in shape (aren't we all?), cooking most of my own meals, doing something meaningful for others and unearthing the ignored artist in me.

The first thing I've been trying to slowly tackle is the cooking part, and {Smitten Kitchen} has been a major influence and motivator for me. In fact, just last weekend I attempted the delicious-looking baked french toast.

Sadly, my quest was not very successful my first time around. But, I'm determined to try again and get it right next time. I also want to try these homemade pop tarts. How fun (and yummy) would these be?!

Quick thought

2010-07-14T18:11:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I wish L.A. had a popbar.

A little somethin, somethin

2010-07-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to report my place is aaalmost done being decorated! I've bought everything my heart desires for now. Just need to find the time to (carefully) throw it all on the walls.

On a side note, though, I'm absolutely loving this photograph over at {Color Me Katie}.

I imagine myself and the beau at a party or art show or something, sneaking around in this jungle of lights to steal a kiss away from the crowd.

Decorating dilemmas

2010-06-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how different moving was when I was in school compared to now when I'm working. During school, I'd move into a new place and have all day and night to unpack and get settled. Now, I get home from work, exhausted after the long day, and want to do anything besides cleaning and organizing.

Luckily, now, the unpacking part is finally done and I've moved on to the fun side of moving - redecorating. However, for some reason, this time I've found decorating to be more stressful than anything else. I can't decide on what direction to go with for my new place. I want it to be more mature-looking than my apartments have been in the past. I want it to look like the pictures from Living, Etc. magazine (new favorite read from the UK). But, I can't quite focus and get there. Sigh...

This is my ideal. A muted palette with accent colors. A clean, pulled together look.

This isn't my favorite but I do love how there's no real standout direction for the room, yet it still all looks cohesive. This is what I'm struggling with right now.

I really want to do a photo wall, but am a little intimidated if I could pull it off and be 100 percent happy with it...

Looooving this fabric wall. It's an ingenius alternative to wallpaper. I just wish I had more wall space in my studio; I would totally do this if so.

Lastly, the feel of this room is what I'm striving for in my home. It's so cozy and warm. I also adore all the different textures used. I'm trying to do this with pillows, throws and with my bed's duvet cover.

We'll see how it all turns out. Wish me luck!

P.S. All images are from {the gallery over at Living, Etc.}

I wish I were here right now...

2010-06-02T19:53:00.000-07:00

Image via {daily dose of imagery}

Posters fit for a palace

2010-06-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

Moving weekend has officially come and gone, and yet, the real work has only begun.

Somewhere, buried deep in the mountain of boxes that now fill my new studio apartment, is a box of collected treasures that I'm excited to share with you in the coming months. But, since I couldn't even uncover a bowl for cereal this morning, my pot of blog gold is going to have to wait. In the meantime, however, I want to share an awesome find I came across last week.

I was browsing through some photos from the Silverlake Jubilee over at Drink Eat Travel and happened upon this one of all these rad looking prints.

I did some digging and found they came from The Poster List. Beautiful prints at an affordable price...What more can a girl ask for? I can't wait to get some of these for my new pad. I already know my first purchase will be this beautiful chandelier one. I'm obsessed with chandeliers right now.

An open letter

2010-05-28T11:47:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,

I can't tell you how sincerely sorry I am for abandoning my blog the last several months. It was a difficult time in my life as I searched for a job and some sort of purpose for being. I found myself sinking into a hole where I was not the person I wanted to be. I was sad. And helpless. And, it was not this person I wanted to be contributing to "all those nothings." So, I made a decision to put the blog on hold until I found what I was looking for and changed back to the person I knew myself to be.

Which brings us to present day. To days where inspiration once again flows through me like a river. I was fortunate enough to find a job that brings me joy. A job where I finally get to use the education I've collected throughout the last 20 years of my life. And, now, this weekend, I am moving to Los Angeles...or, the Valley rather. This is the first time I will be living on my own with no roommates. And, the first time, I must say, that I truly feel like an adult. A real adult.

So, the moral of the story is that I'm back. I'm taking it slow for now. I can't guarantee that I'll post everyday, especially with the big move coming up. But, I am here. I am better. And, I am inspired.

Thank you for sticking with me through all of this even though you had no idea this was going on. I'm sorry for not being more open earlier. But, I look forward to what this new chapter in my life will bring to "all those nothings." Here's to the unknown!

XOXO,

Amy

P.S. The image above is done by {Julia Rothman} I love love love her work. I have such a weak spot for patterns. Enjoy her portfolio and have a fun holiday weekend, everyone!

Found typography

2009-11-12T17:26:00.000-08:00

I have a bad habit of getting overly excited for things far off in the future. For example, this past June, I started getting pumped for Christmas and have been humming holiday carols in my head ever since. Now that Christmas is basically just around the corner, new anticipations have taken hold of my mind and heart.

Most of all, I'm anxious to find myself a real job and move closer to Los Angeles, which is where I always saw myself ending up if I stayed in California. But, until that day comes, I'm enjoying visiting Santa Monica, Venice Beach and other fun areas of L.A. County. Here is a beautiful wall I strolled by in Santa Monica last week. I don't exactly understand the purpose it serves; it just goes to show that not everything has to have a rhyme or reason. Some things are just purely lovely.

A tradition is born

2009-11-09T16:54:00.000-08:00

One of the goals I set for myself after the Blog Out Loud event was that I want to inject more of myself into this blog. When I started "all those nothings" back in June, I intended for it to be a collection of things that inspire and excite me. So, it seems only natural that magazines be a part of this site.

I looooove magazines, and sometimes it feels like I can't even enter a bookstore or supermarket without walking away with a new zine of some sort. Last night, while I was thumbing through a new addition to my stockpile, I thought of a great idea for my first weekly column. So...without further ado, I'd like to introduce you to "Mag Mondays." What better way to start the week than with some beautiful magazine meat?

Mag Mondays will be a day for me to share anything interesting, exciting or gorgeous that I find in the pages of my magazine obsession. Being the debut column, this week is dedicated to the publication that inspired it all - The New York Times style magazine, "T Magazine."

Their covers are always very well-done, but yesterday's issue really jumped out at me because it reminded me of a past blog post I did. On top of that, I loved the look of the logo - classic and elegant, but with a modern twist thanks to the fun gradient fill-in they added.

Also, this article was tucked away inside. With a kid that cute, I had to share this with you. I hope my future, unborn children are that adorable. I'm going to have so much fun dressing them up!

Dreaming of Christmas

2009-11-09T00:00:00.001-08:00

The weather is finally starting to cool down here in Sunny Southern California. And, it's finally beginning to feel a teeny bit like the holiday season. Though, I'd get much more into the Christmas spirit if I paid a little visit to this dreamy snow-covered cottage. But, alas I'll just have to settle for playing nonstop Christmas jingles and drinking too many gingerbread lattes.

I hope you all had a lovely weekend and were able to start feeling some holiday cheer. I'm excited to share with you all a new Monday tradition that I'll be starting tomorrow. Until then though, have a good night!

Image found {here}

Blog Out Loud

2009-11-06T13:43:00.000-08:00

Wednesday night, I had the pleasure of attending the fourth Blog Out Loud event. We talked about all things blogging - where to get inspired, how to advertise yourself, typical dos and donts and so much more.

It was hosted at DWR | Tools for Living, which is an amazing modern design store in Santa Monica.

The event was put on by Rebecca Orlov of loving. living. small. and Megan Arquette of beach bungalow 8. And, there were five very inspiring panelists from all up and down California.

It was so awesome to be in a room filled with people sharing the same interest in blogging as me. I felt instantly connected with everyone there.

The entire evening was a blast. I loved getting to explore the store after the Q&A was over. I was immediately grabbed by this patterned panel that hung behind the registers. The pop of orange really completes it.

And, isn't this such a unique carpet hanging on the wall! I adore the look of the messy, handwritten cursive.

There were so many beautiful things to look at during the event and so many things to think about as I walked back to my car. I'm excited to share with you all the changes that will eventually take place around here as well as in my own life.

Pre-bed tease

2009-11-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

I am completely exhausted after this week and, sadly, it's only Wednesday...well, technically Thursday. I have the problem of going, going, going until I'm burnt out. Then, I end up spending an entire day on the couch, watching shows like "Mall Cops" and "Parking Wars." Though I'm looking forward to a night free of plans tomorrow, I have to say I had quite a blast with tonight's itinerary, which was this Blog Out Loud event. Pictures and details to come tomorrow!

For now, though, it's off to sleep I go! I would love to walk into this bedroom right now and drift off to dreamland. I love everything about it, especially the skyline photography lining the window.

All it needs now is this furry blanket.

And some twinkle lights!

All bedroom photos found via {indierocket's photostream}

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-30T18:20:00.000-07:00

Sadly, I didn't really decorate for Halloween. Although, I don't normally go all out for this holiday - I save up for Christmas instead. My only form of decor this year besides my masterfully crafted pumpkin is my pumpkin plant that I got at the local Farmer's Market. I seriously love it! I've never seen anything like this before.

If I did dress up my apartment more and if I actually had stairs, I would want to do this. How awesome is this staircase?! There's no way it wouldn't feel like Halloween walking up these.

P.S. Here's my pumpkin in case you wanted to check it out. Mine is the one on your right. Beautiful, right? I did a sort of self portrait.

Happy Halloween, everyone!

Staircase picture found via {Apartment Therapy}

Swoon

2009-10-29T23:18:00.000-07:00

I am in love. But, then again, who wouldn't become completely enamored with some beautiful letterpress. These lovely invitations not only have nice letterpress work, but, also, playful typography. Looking at them makes me want to throw a party purely so I could order some awesome letterpress invites.

Be sure to check out Louella Court for some extra photographs.

Too pretty to dry with

2009-10-28T12:05:00.000-07:00

My mom loves dish towels. In fact, she often asks for them as birthday and Christmas presents. I suppose I can't really talk though since last Christmas, I wrote down bath towels on my Christmas wish list. It's funny how the things we desire changes as we get older. Now, at 24 years old, I get excited by beautiful dishes and fun kitchen gadgets.

I haven't yet gotten into dish towels, but I think I would if they all looked like the ones on "To Dry For." Don't these look like art instead of towels? I kind of just want to frame them and hang them on the kitchen walls.

Book love

2009-10-24T22:11:00.000-07:00

I haven't been able to get books off the mind. I love this site called "book lovers never go to bed alone." It has beautiful, fun, inspiring pictures of peoples' book collections. Plus, how fun is the title itself?

Someday, I want an entire wall bookshelf like this one. It would take a lot of time to fill it and a lot of energy to get it looking right, but I love the appearance of it!

This one may not be a complete wall, but I adore the photo. The objects the person mixes in with the books paired with the purple wall are awesome. There's so much to look at. I want this in my bedroom right now.

Taking a moment

2009-10-21T17:57:00.000-07:00

Today, I just want to leave you with a peaceful picture. Hopefully, it'll give your Wednesday night a nice little breather like it has mine. It was a long day at work, and part of me wants to dive deep into this photograph right this second. But, I'm looking forward to going out and unwinding a bit tonight. Have a great night, and hang in there - it's almost Friday!

Picture via {Being Red}

Hidden treasures

2009-10-20T15:48:00.001-07:00

I hope you all had a fun weekend and a good Monday. I officially finished my second Chelsea Handler read and am moving on to my second attempt at reading the entire Harry Potter series.

With books on the mind lately, I've really been in the mood to go to a used bookstore. I love the history behind secondhand books - the wear and tear of the pages and the things you sometimes find hidden inside.

However, until I can make it out to one of the local bookstores, the Web site "Forgotten Bookmarks" has been keeping me pretty satisfied. It documents little treasures left behind in old books, and I think it's absolutely lovely. What do you all use as bookmarks? I tend to switch it up, but currently tucked away in my book is an advertisement for a local musician I saw recently. I hope you all enjoy seeing what other people have tucked away in their reads.

Multipurpose ring

2009-10-14T21:34:00.001-07:00

Who says locket necklaces are the only articles of jewelry meant to hold pictures? I love this photo frame ring. It's inspired me to reinvent the use of the locket and, instead, make a locket ring. Hopefully I'll tackle that, along with lots of other jewelry making projects, sometime in the next week or two. Pictures to come as soon as I finish some pieces.

P.S. Be sure to check check out the Etsy shop, Yellowgoat, which is where I found this ring. She has some really creative accessories. She also has a lovely blog!

Fred Flare steals my heart

2009-10-13T22:18:00.000-07:00

Something bad happened the other night. I don't remember the exact course of events, but, somehow, I stumbled upon the Web site for an amazing store in Brooklyn, New York. Immediately upon perusing the shop, I became so very thankful that I no longer live in Brooklyn because if I did, I would be dropping so much cash on goodies from this store.

They have such awesomely funny and one-of-kind products like Rubik's cube peppper grinders.

Magnets that look like pre-chewed gum.

A jumbo cake cutter that's sure to steal all the attention away from even the yummiest of desserts.

Quirky band-aides.

Even flowers in a can, which I saw while touring Europe. I was kicking myself for not buying one in Amsterdam, but it looks like I now have another chance!

An array of really fun USB drives.

And, even the cheeseburger phone from the movie "Juno."

Seriously, I could create my entire Christmas wish list from this one store. What I need to do, instead, is stop looking at the Web site!

Changing behavior

2009-10-12T21:40:00.000-07:00

I love these videos from Volkswagon. Why can't cool things like this be done in my own backyard?

Found via {A Cup of Jo}

Porn for designers

2009-10-08T21:46:00.000-07:00

Blogs, cheese, magazines and karaoke. What do these things have in common, you may ask? They are all things that I'm quite addicted to. However, my magazine obsession is what got really out of hand this summer while I was in New York. It was there that I got the joy of visiting several stores entirely devoted to the sale of magazines. I was in complete and utter heaven. Although, it was also kind of hell at the same time because of how torturous it was having to restrain myself so much.

As far as the best of the best goes, my all-time favorite magazine is JANE Magazine; however, sadly, they had to close shop a couple of years ago. Now, I'm loving Frankie Magazine and Uppercase Magazine. Although, I've never actually held a copy of either in my own hands, I have been enjoying some of their layouts online - pure design beauty!

Frankie

Uppercase

Transformed tradition

2009-10-06T23:28:00.000-07:00

So, I know it's only October 6th, but Halloween sure has taken up permanent residence in my mind. Actually...all the exciting holidays have been in my thoughts lately. I'm especially anxious to start playing Christmas music, and I'm already planning out where the Christmas tree can go in my new apartment.

Why is it that Christmas is the only festival deserving of a tree? I wonder if the other holidays feel left out. I began feeling sorry for the fast-approaching Halloween...until I ran across this amazing Halloween tree. It's so adorable; I almost want to go out and track down a fake tree so that I can have one of my own to decorate!

Costume block

2009-10-03T18:19:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it's already October! Seriously, where did September go?! I don't know if I'm ready for Halloween to be here quite yet. Although I did finally nail down plans for the day of haunting, I still don't have a costume set in stone. It's going to be hard to top my authentic go-go ensemble from last year. And, though it seems tradition for girls in their late teens and twenties to dress rather provocatively, I'm seriously considering to veer the other way and wear something like this "Where the Wild Things Are" getup. It would stand out and be comfortable at the same time...a win-win! What are you all going to be?

Polaroids will live on

2009-09-30T23:36:00.000-07:00

I have a new obsession, folks. It all started yesterday when I stumbled upon this program called Poladroid. The events that followed looked something like this: I downloaded the application, loaded it and a little Polaroid camera popped up on my desktop. I then proceeded to click and drag some pictures from my summer in New York. Wait for it, wait for it...they pop out of the camera just like real Polaroids and I can actually watch as they develop before my eyes. The pictures went from looking like regular photos taken by my Canon Powershot to looking like actual Polaroids. Take a look at some of my experiments and see for yourself:

Seriously, I love it; I was giddy. I now know what Im going to be doing all weekend!

Sweet to-do list

2009-09-25T15:20:00.000-07:00

I've been on a big baking kick lately. I don't know what I enjoy most about my adventures - eating the delicious end results or just the joy of experimenting with fun, new recipes. Here are three yummy-looking treats that are going on my to-do list.

First up: Nutella Croissants. You can't go wrong with Nutella!

And, whoopie pies. I was sold on the marshmallow creme filling.

Lastly, s'mores bars. The perfect combination: marshmallow, chocolate and graham crackers. Mm mm!

I don't even want to think about the weight I'll gain from these plates of tastiness. It's all in the name of sweet, sweet love though. Until then, I'm off to the L.A. Fair for some fried food and cheese on a stick. Have a great weekend, everyone!

Pure beauty

2009-09-25T09:38:00.000-07:00

If I had to imagine the ideal happy place right now, this would surely be it. The weather would be a perfect Fall day - light sweater, jeans and nothing more. The only thing I'd possibly add would be a couch or hammock instead of the park benches. Then, I would lay down and read for hours on end in my little pink paradise. How peaceful that would be.

Outdoor wallpaper?

2009-09-24T19:52:00.000-07:00

This store is amazing. Too bad it's in London. Seriously, though, if I happened to pass by any store that looked like this, I would have to go in just out of respect for the awesome exterior.

Cupcakes make me smile

2009-09-23T16:51:00.000-07:00

I'm not very happy today. But, luckily I have great friends all around me including one who lives right in my room, and she's promised to bake some funfetti cupcakes to cheer me up. If that's not a true friend, I don't know what is! While we're on the subject of one of my obsessions, I saw this idea for a cupcake party and, now, really want to throw one of my own. How fun would that be?!

I also found one of the most amazing blogs, entirely devoted to cupcakes. Check it out! Cupcakes make me happy. What cheers you up when you're feeling down?

Image one via {Angela Coombes} and two via {Star Bakery}

Toddler photographers

2009-09-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

My first nephew turns 2 this weekend. I can't believe how time flies! I love watching him grow up, seeing how his interests and behaviors change with age. Right now, he is loving all things cars, playing with cell phones and taking pictures.

Photography taken by little kids is so interesting to look at. I enjoy seeing things from a different angle and eye level. And, it baffles me when some children actually understand, to some degree, what makes a good picture. Take for instance, a little girl named Adie. Adie is five years old and owns a Polaroid camera. Her mom created a blog to keep record of Adie's photography. The girl has some real talent. I'm excited to see how she grows in her art.

P.S. (Here's her pictures from 2008 too!)

Also, here's a couple of my nephew's photos just for fun.

Adventures in baking

2009-09-20T13:19:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone is enjoying the last remaining bits of the weekend. My Friday thru Sunday have been quite busy as a few friends were visiting from out of town. On Friday, in celebration of my moving into a new apartment, I made these hamburgers and french fries and, as promised, wanted to share the grand outcome.

They didn't look as perfect as the ones from the blog that inspired me, but they were still delicious! I think people got a kick out of them too. So, all in all, it was a hit! I definitely want to try making them again and work out a few kinks the next time around.

Teach me something

2009-09-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

You learn something new everyday. It can be as small as discovering a yummy new eatery in your neighborhood or as great as realizing something so defining about yourself. The most interesting, though, are the random little facts that will stick out in your mind for years to come. Who knows - it may even be those tidbits that help you win lots of money on some game show like "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire."

So, to up your chances of winning the big bucks someday, check out the fun site, Learn Something New Everyday, created by UK design studio Young.

How does your garden grow

2009-09-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

Great design can be found practically anywhere. I especially love the look of these seed packets. Although that may just be because I'm partial to pattern work. There's something about these plant prints that make me want to go out right now and start a garden full of colorful flowers and fresh herbs. If only I had an actual yard to do so.

Twinkle, twinkle

2009-09-15T21:03:00.000-07:00

Southern California is a gorgeous place to live, but there's one thing about this area that I've never liked - you can never just look up to the sky at night and see a blanket of stars. That's one thing about Northern California that I miss. So, to make up for this loss in my life, I've decided that I really want this star gazer globe. It looks so beautiful. If I were to actually buy it, I'd put it on my bedside table, turn it on at night before I close my eyes and I'd fall asleep looking up at the star-covered walls. That sounds so very peaceful to me.

Images via {The Unicorn Diaries}

In bed

2009-09-15T14:12:00.000-07:00

I am exhausted right now. All I want to do is go curl up back in bed, under my blanket and drift back off to dreamland for a few more hours. Although, really just laying in bed would be enough.

Beds are very personal things. And, sleeping is a very intimate, vulnerable activity, which is partly why I love that photographer Jacob Pritchard chose that very act as the subject for this photography series. Looking at his pictures makes me want to go to bed even more.

9/11 a few days late

2009-09-13T21:35:00.004-07:00

I know the anniversary for 9/11 was a few days ago, but I found these pictures from that tragic day and wanted to share them with you. There are a lot of chilling images from September 11th out there, but I haven't seen anything like these before. The aerial view is really unique and shows what happened that day from an interesting angle.

Images from {Internet Pop Culture} via {The Best Article Every day}

Time for a laugh

2009-09-13T17:20:00.007-07:00

The time that immediately follows college graduation is an interesting time. If you aren't lucky enough to land a job right after commencement, you find yourself in this odd limbo. You don't have school, but you don't have a job either, so what do you do with your days? What purpose do you have?

When I've found myself plagued by these questions and others like them, I turn to the Internet to cheer me up. And, luckily I haven't been let down yet. Here are some things that brought a smile to my face last week. I encourage everyone to peruse Buzzfeed and FAIL Blog on a daily basis. It's good to laugh regularly, especially in times like this.

Take a closer look

2009-08-28T17:07:00.005-07:00

I've been home from New York for almost three weeks now and, sadly, still haven't uploaded my pictures yet. I'm really horrible with things like that. But, when that day finally comes, I've got some rad pictures from the greatest museums in New York that I think you'll like. Until then, here are some art photos that I didn't take, but they're amazing and pretty trippy nonetheless.

Letting go

2009-08-27T21:16:00.008-07:00

How do you let things go? Is there anything you do or say that helps push negative energy away? That's something I'm struggling with right now, and I don't know what to do.

So, in honor of letting go, I want to share with you a very interesting photography series. It captures a moment right before people are about to say goodbye to the greatest gift they've ever received - their very own life. These pictures document their last wish - their last meals before execution.

I love collages

2009-08-25T18:31:00.005-07:00

I have been feeling so unmotivated and uninspired lately. I'm in one those funks. Those frustrating funks that you know you'll snap out of soon, but it's still getting to me. I need a project. Something to will me out of bed in the morning. Something to get excited about. But, until then, I'll just peruse through the blog Record the Day. It makes me happy. The collages are simple, yet beautiful. They remind me of all the magazine collages I'd make as a kid. Only these are more elegant looking.

Dorm done right

2009-08-20T23:58:00.004-07:00

It's that time of year again: back-to-school. It feels so weird to not be making runs to Staples or Office Depot, buying up all their Ballpoint pens and decorative notebooks. It feels weird to not be registering for classes and praying I get the schedule I want. And, it feels weird to not be planning my first-day-of-school outfit (yes, I did that even as a senior).

As students at my alma mater moved into the dorms yesterday, I'm sure many of them were facing one of the biggest challenges in their life to date: decorating and organizing their sardine can-sized room. If you never had to experience such joy, let me tell you - making use of such a small space and making it feel like home is a tough task. But, this guy below sure knows how to do it right. I must say - I'm quite impressed.

Chalk makes a comeback

2009-08-19T22:19:00.009-07:00

Hi everyone! I'm so so sorry for the long run of postless days and even more sorry that I did not give you forewarning. I just moved back down to Southern California and into a new apartment with my best friend. It feels good to be back, but I still miss New York from time to time. Back to the real world though!

Although my main focus right now is looking for a job, a lot of my attention, of course, is being hogged with thoughts of furniture arrangement, color schemes and wall decor ideas. With so much interior design on the brain, I thought I'd share with you my latest obsession: chalk.

Indeed, that thing I'd doodle on sidewalks with has circled back around. Only this time I want to paint on more than just the ground. Here are some fun ways to use chalkboard paint:

Chalkboard walls:

Doors:

Cabinets:

Refrigerator:

Wine glasses:

Planters:

Storage:

Calendars to keep schedule:

To remember recipes:

To create pieces of art:

To record inspirational quotes:

Ruffles galore

2009-08-14T15:18:00.006-07:00

I'm not usually a belt person, but lately, I find myself eyeing belts like I do bracelets. They can really pull together an outfit that's lacking something. I think this ruffle belt would look especially great with a simple one-color dress. The even better part is that you can make it yourself. And, I do love a good craft project.

If a belt is not enough for you, try these DIY ruffled purse and heels. They're adorable, but, for some reason, I feel like my own handmade ones wouldn't turn out quite the same.

Replacements

2009-08-12T22:44:00.004-07:00

I absolutely love photography, and it excites me when I see artists doing something fresh and interesting with their photographs. Wonderfully-captured pictures are a joy to look at and admire, but these photographic experiments really inspire me.

Michael Hughes replaces famous landmarks with their souvenir counterparts, and Jason Powell uses old photographs in place of the current-day structures. I love this out-of-the-box thinking. These pictures are so fun and unique.

Map art

2009-08-10T21:54:00.007-07:00

Maps aren't normally thought of as works of art, but these ones of Paris and Brooklyn definitely prove otherwise. They're so beautiful; I can't imagine how long the paper cutout of Paris took! I just wish there were more for sale than just Paris and London (which is the artist's other cutout). I would love to find a regional map of Southern California as awesome as one of these.

Blast from the past

2009-08-07T17:21:00.006-07:00

Well, folks, next time you hear from me I will no longer be a resident of New York, but, instead, will be back in Sunny California. And, in just a week and a half, I'll be back in "the OC." I'm looking forward to moving into a new apartment and having a fresh space to decorate. Although I already have all the furniture I need, these pieces from Jellio are so fun! I would actually want to buy a gummy bear lamp, but too bad they're over one hundred dollars! A girl can still dream, I suppose...

Have a spectacular weekend, everyone!

XOXO, Amy

Sexify your place

2009-08-06T18:12:00.011-07:00

I cannot believe I leave New York in less than 48 hours. Though I know it's not for good, and I know I will be back many more times in my life, it's still sad nonetheless. Luckily, I got to see something amazing on one my last days here - Carrie Bradshaw's iconic stoop from my favorite show "Sex and the City." I felt like such a tourist, snapping tons of pictures of this mere porch. With Carrie in mind on this Thursday night, I thought I'd share this fabulous post I found on how to recreate her apartment all for yourself.

Check out Bandelle for a more detailed description on how to get your own Bradshaw look-a-like pad, or take a peek at some other apartments from the big and small screen that you could copy for yourself.

Post-it pictures

2009-08-05T18:53:00.011-07:00

They're often thought of as no more than a mere office supply, but after seeing this YouTube video, I have a newfound fascination for post-it notes. Take a look at the many faces of these sticky little square, round, heart-shaped, pink, yellow and hot green pieces of paper:

cover your entire apartment:

Photos five and six via {Weburbanist}

New meaning to courtesy

2009-08-04T19:07:00.005-07:00

These cards by Gramkin Paper Studio may not be the friendliest (though I'm sure we've all thought what's written on them at some point in our lives) and I would never actually give one to someone, but they're so beautiful to look at that I almost...maybe...sort of really do want to hand them out. However, there are some fun cards of theirs that I'd love to give to a few friends who I know would appreciate it. Hope you get a laugh from these like I did!

XOXO, Amy

Baby talk

2009-08-03T16:57:00.008-07:00

I can't stop thinking about babies lately! Don't get me wrong - I don't have a baby, I'm not expecting one anytime soon, nor do I want one anytime soon. But, there is a very special three-week old boy who I'm going to meet in just five days, and I couldn't be more excited to finally hold this new baby nephew of mine.

As the aunt of a new life, I've found myself looking at all things baby lately - clothes, toys, little booties, etc. And, though I can't afford to spoil my now two nephews as much as I'd wish, I still love admiring these things that no longer appeal to people older than, say, four.

Toy talk aside, however, I absolutely love these baby shower activity notepads. Put these notes together in a book, and that would be such a special gift for any mom-to-be. I could see there being something like this for a bridal shower or even graduation party as well. Now, I just hope I can remember this shower game five or so years down the road from now...

Another thing I'm going to have to will myself to remember half a decade from now is this awesome cardboard playhouse. Any future child of mine will surely possess at least a small amount of creativity. And, this house would definitely be fun for kids to draw on and make their own. In fact, I kind of want one of these for myself!

Photo {one} and {two}

Obama's photostream

2009-07-31T14:46:00.005-07:00

It was a really long/not-so-great day, so I'm anxious to just go to bed and put an end to this Friday already. Therefore, I'm going to keep this post a little short and leave you with an awesome Flickr account that you need to check out this weekend - the President's! I love that the White House has an official Flickr account. It's interesting to browse through all the pictures; you get a more intimate look into President Obama's life now. I love that he goes to art museums!

Enjoy the photos and enjoy your weekend, everybody!

XOXO, Amy

P.S. What an amazing job this photographer has! I'm jealous!

New obsession

2009-07-30T17:49:00.007-07:00

I've never really been a big cake person. To this day, I still scrape the frosting off cake, save it for myself and hand over the cake part to my grandpa. However, lately, I've been a bit obsessed with cupcakes. I'm not talking about devouring cupcakes all the time (although I do love Sprinkles bakery); I just like admiring them. From a design standpoint, I look at cupcakes like miniature works of art - the decorating is always so fun and unique from one cake to the next. I especially love these fashion designer-inspired cupcakes that were shot by photographer Therese Aldgard and prop-styled by Lisa Edsalv.

While we're on the subject of cupcakes, I thought I'd add this photo of "tall cupcakes" from Sugarbloom bakery. This would be a great and unique alternative for parties; they look great for sharing. They look pretty tasty too! Alright...I officially want a cupcake now!

Photos via {Pomegranate and Patchouli} and {Great Full Day}

Recessionista-friendly gifts

2009-07-29T16:11:00.007-07:00

When I was a little girl, I would make gifts for my family every Christmas. I was really famous for my yarn dolls, Kleenex dolls (complete with a shoe box bed), and picture frames with hand-made collages. Now, as a 24-year-old woman, I still enjoy making gifts, and I still adore collage art. The love for arts and crafts I had when I was younger has stayed with me, so I got excited when I came across these simple DIY gift ideas:

This is a really simple way to spice up a gift card. Take two postcards, photos, etc and either sew them together or tape them together if you wish. I think this is great for personalizing something that is sometimes thought of as an impersonal.

Here are some hand-made note pads. The step-by-step instructions for this little gift idea are here. And, to go a step further, you could even make a fun collage for the cover.

Going off the notepad idea, I found these notebooks {via Poppytalk} that I think would be easy to make on my own. I think a really special gift idea would be to make a notebook like this for a friend or family member and then, decorate some pages with photos, poems and/or quotes.

I hope these ideas get your creative juices flowing a bit. I can't wait to get back to California to all my art supplies and get cracking on some of these. I'm feeling some homemade gifts coming on this Christmas!

XOXO, Amy

Photo {one}, {two} and {three}

Fun with Photoshop

2009-07-28T18:18:00.006-07:00

When I first saw these photos, I totally thought they were pictures of miniature toy models or something. I was surprised to find out, however, that they're actually pictures of real people and places. The photographer has used a Photoshop technique called tilt-shift to create the fake miniature effect. I found some simple instructions on how to do this form of manipulation here. I'm excited now to go out and shoot some photos of my own to play around with. Hopefully, they'll turn out as cool-looking as these are!

Photo {one}, {two} and {three}

Design dilemma

2009-07-27T16:53:00.011-07:00

I hope everyone had a fun weekend! I was running around town all Saturday and Sunday, trying to soak in as much of the city as I can before I leave. My stay here in New York is officially down to under two weeks, which means less than 14 days until I have to get my butt in gear and start my mad job hunt. With resumes and cover letters on the mind, I've decided that I want to create a killer business card for myself. It's about time I have one anyways. But, I'm having designer's block as to what direction I want to go in. Here are some cards that I'm really digging right now, each for different reasons:

Although this card is pretty standard looking as far as design goes, I appreciate the use of a different paper. I especially love the natural look of the cardboard.

This one is also a little on the simple side; however, I enjoy the personal touch added to it by including a few fun facts about the cardholder.

I love this translucent business card. Although it's a bit unrealistic for me budget-wise, I really like the look of it. This is one to keep in mind for the future when I have more money to spend. I also enjoy the idea of incorporating an envelope. By adding an extra step in getting to the card, it makes it more special as well.

Here's another envelope! Although the hair concept doesn't apply to my profession, I really like the idea of a cleverly used die cut and envelop. This technique is high up on my list of possible business cards. It would require a bit more time in ways of craft, but it'd be worth it.

Lastly, this is probably one of my favorite business cards. It's unique and creative, yet still functional. I love the fun 3-D aspect of it. This card is definitely more than just a flat piece of cardstock that will most likely just be slipped in someone's wallet with no more than a seconds glance.

I've got some thinking to do in the next couple of weeks. Business cards - good business cards, that is - are small pieces of art, and I want to make mine memorable. Let me know what you think about these. And, if you're searching for the same thing I am, I really recommend dailypoetics' Flickr photostream of business cards. There are hundreds of amazing cards to peruse through for inspiration. Happy hunting!

XOXO, Amy

Photo {one}, {two}, {three}, {four} and {five}

Weekend fun

2009-07-25T12:03:00.006-07:00

Oh. my. gosh. This is the first time I've really been able to get on the computer since Wednesday morning. I have a mere two weeks left in New York so I'm trying to jam pack them as much as possible. I apologize if that affects my blogging at all, but I'm hoping it won't too much. I'm also hoping to get some rad pictures from MoMa up soon. They have some really amazing things on display right now.

Here are some things to keep you a little busy over the weekend until I get going on my museum photos:

1. Print & Pattern blog is amazing. I've been really into patterns lately, and I find their posts so inspiring. I could spend forever browsing all their entries; they make me want to get up and start creating!

2. Summer is in full swing now, but what's a summer without an awesome summer playlist? If you don't have some cool tunes to play during these hot months, Nylon Magazine and Urban Outfitters are giving away free music playlists. Go here and here to download and enjoy!

Five-star dollar menu

2009-07-21T17:28:00.006-07:00

I've been eating out a lot more than usual since I arrived in the Big Apple, and I'm starting to get tired of it. How I long for a nice, healthy home-cooked meal. But, what about a home-cooked meal made from fast food? The meals on Fancy Fast Food are just that, and I must say they are pretty interesting and tasty looking. Imagine getting served something like this at Taco Bell or Dominos (which is where the food in these pictures comes from)!

Monday smiles

2009-07-20T16:30:00.011-07:00

Two things that made my Monday:

1. Heart-shaped ice cubes. They make my glasses of water and iced tea so much happier.

2. This rainbow-colored street in Seattle. Those have got to be some cool people living there!

This weekend went by especially fast for some reason. I longed for just 24 more hours until Monday morning. Although I was not granted that additional weekend time, I must say that these two things made my Monday a little brighter than usual. What things made your Monday better?

Photo {one}, {two} and {three}

Shoe box design

2009-07-17T18:13:00.007-07:00

I've never really found myself excited over an empty shoe box...until a few days ago that is when I saw this box of my roommate's on the bedroom floor. I had never heard of Jeffrey Campbell before, but seeing the beautiful hand-done illustrations on this lid made me instantly respect the man, and I found myself wanting to go out and buy a pair of his shoes immediately. Anyone who takes the time and effort to pay attention to some of the smaller details - like a shoe box -that so often get tossed to the side deserves my business.

On a side note, I hope you all have a great weekend! I don't have any plans set in stone so far, but, lately, I kind of prefer my weekends that way. Hopefully I'll hit up a museum or two and see some more nice artwork!

XOXO, Amy

Artsy pasta

2009-07-16T20:24:00.011-07:00

I saw these bags of pasta at a truck stop while vacationing in Europe recently. They were absolutely beautiful; I was mesmerized. I had never seen such colorful pasta like this before especially being sold at a random stop on the road. I wanted to buy them so badly. But, after the exchange rate and everything, one bag would have ended up costing me around 15 dollars or so, which I thought to be too hefty for pasta.

However, since that trip, I have found myself really craving some rainbow-striped pasta, and I was lucky enough to find them online here. They're still expensive for being pasta, but I think I'd want to buy a bag, put them in a beautiful clear glass jar and just have it sit on display on my kitchen counter as decoration. I just love them so much...too much to eat even, but how gorgeous of a meal would that be!

Cuteness captured

2009-07-16T10:59:00.007-07:00

I have almost always had a pet. When it wasn't a dog, it was a fish. And, contrary to what some of you may think, my fish - Webster - was one of the best, most charismatic pets I've ever had. Although Webster passed away last summer and I've gotten a new fish since then, something is still lacking. I've never really considered a rat as a pet. But, after looking at Jessica Florence's photos on Flickr, I'm thinking they could actually be a really fun pet to have. Here are some samples of her work, but be sure to take a look at her photostream. Her pictures are absolutely adorable.

Hit the road

2009-07-14T18:17:00.006-07:00

Although I look forward to Christmas 364 days of the year, I have to say that I still thoroughly enjoy summertime. Summer brings with it not only warm weather and sunshine, but movies in the park, county fairs (which means cheese on a stick!) and road trips.

But, it looks like road trips aren't just for families looking to bond or teenagers looking to grab hold of some freedom. Businesses, in fact, are enjoying themselves a nice little taste of the open highway. Two of my favorite companies are actually hitting the road this summer and are headed across the nation: Sprinkles Cupcakes and Four Vines Winery.

I think it's such a great idea that these companies have made the decision to go mobile. Be sure to check to their Web sites for tour dates if you're interested! Now, if only they could coordinate a meet-up together in, say, Orange County after, say, August 14th. Delicious cupcakes and amazing wine - what more could a girl ask for?

Photos via {Four Vines Facebook} and {Sprinkles Cupcakes}

Relaxing afternoons

2009-07-13T18:12:00.012-07:00

I've been on a big reading kick lately. While I do most of my reading these days either lying on the couch, crammed on the subway or taking it easy in Union Square, I would absolutely love to curl up to a good book in one of these beautiful scenes.

I bought a beach towel at Coney Island over the weekend and can't wait to take it to Central Park, lay out and read there. I suppose that that will have to do for now. Hopefully, I can get out sometime this week and finish my current book - "My Sister's Keeper" (which is so amazing, by the way). When I finish that, I'm going to finally complete "Eat, Pray, Love." And, from there, who knows. Do you have any good book suggestions? What are you reading right now, if anything?

Photo {one}, {two} and {three}

Inspiration walls

2009-07-11T13:15:00.010-07:00

I don't normally post on the weekend, but I was a bad blogger and missed yesterday. My apologies for that. It's a lazy Saturday today. The wind is blowing so hard outside, threatening the city of rain soon. It reminds me of the start of winter in Southern California and makes me want to curl up in sweats and watch movies all day.

What is everyone doing the rest of this weekend? I'm visiting Coney Island tomorrow. I'm so excited to go on some classic roller coasters and to witness the famous Coney Island freak show. I'm hoping all the fun amusement park sights will get my creative juices flowing more. I've been feeling rather uninspired lately. I know it will pass, but it's times like this that I wish I had a nice big inspiration wall to look at for motivation.

I love these inspiration walls, especially the huge collage one by Diane Bergeron. Be sure to check out her Web site where you can view this piece in greater detail. If you had an inspiration wall would it be more free flowing like Diane's or more organized like the one by dottieangel?

P.S. Little baby Joshua was born last night! I officially have two nephews now. Welcome to the world, little guy!

XOXO, Amy

Burgers to bake

2009-07-09T16:17:00.008-07:00

Although I am absolutely loving New York, I have to admit that I'm still looking forward to returning home to California in a month and having an entire apartment all to myself and my best friend Jamie. I'm excited to have a kitchen where I'll feel more comfortable to cook and bake again. Once I get back, the first thing I'm going to bake will be this amazing happy meal-esque dessert made entirely out of brownies and cookies (only I think I'll skip the whole Father's Day themed packaging). I can't wait! I'll let you all know in a month or so how my adventure goes!

Photos via {Bakerella}

Welcome to the world!

2009-07-08T19:41:00.008-07:00

It's been a long day. I worked late at my internship and then, brought two hours of work home with me on top of that. Who ever invented the concept of internships - free labor - is a genius.

So, since I'm completely beat tonight, I'm going to take it easy and leave with you some awesome retro baby announcements done by The Mandate Press. Any parents-to-be who sends this out is automatically cooler in my book. And, since we're talking about babies, I might as well mention that I'm expecting a new nephew any day now. So, fingers crossed that the labor goes smoothly for my sister-in-law! I can't wait to meet baby Josh.

Photo via {Oh So Beautiful Paper}

Wine, Oh!

2009-07-07T18:48:00.008-07:00

I'll admit it. I'm sort of a wine-o, not in the sense that I drink wine all the time, but I do love the taste of it. But, one thing I love even more than the taste are the wine labels themselves. Wine labels, like book covers, are pieces of art. And, I'm sorry to whoever invented the cliche "do not judge a book by its cover," but I believe that it's entirely acceptable to judge books, as well as wines, by their outer artwork.

I adore these wine labels, especially the one that's covered in type (by Robot-food). There's something beautiful in its simplistic nature. And, how can you not appreciate the nice typography? I wish I could have a glass of wine from one of these bottles right now...

The illustrations from this second set (by Narrow House) are so interesting too. I would love to pull these out of the fridge at a party. How fun would that be?!

Someday, when I have more space to live in than a tiny apartment, I want to have a wine bottle collection. I think it could make for a great art display on a shelf or something. I want that and a collection of beautiful perfume bottles. Aaaaah...someday!

Photo one via {The Dieline} and two via {Lovely Package}

Happy pillows

2009-07-06T21:20:00.009-07:00

Sorry for being so late with the posting tonight! I just got home from a very long day at work. Although, luckily, it was followed up by a fun movie screening of Dog Day Afternoon in Bryant Park. I realized that movies in the park make me very happy. They're so relaxing. You know what also makes me happy though? These pillows from designer Jonathan Adler. Who wouldn't want a pillow with "hugs" on it?

I especially adore this one pillow from Adler that's covered with happy thoughts. I would love to walk into my room and see that on my bed every day. It makes me smile. If you could have a personalized pillow with things that brighten your day stitched on it, what would your pillow say? Mine would have: hugs, love, puppies, tulips, Webster (my fish - R.I.P), massages, brie, baths, stars (in the sky, not the famous kind), friends and fireworks.

Photo one via {decor8} and two via {kellylovesmiso}

Happy fourth

2009-07-03T13:07:00.001-07:00

What is everyone doing this weekend for the 4th of July? My only plans for the holiday weekend so far are panning out to look like a nice, traditional fourth. BBQ in the afternoon followed by fireworks out by the Hudson River and then, just hanging out with friends until the grandma in me kicks in and tells me I'm tired, and it's time for bed.

I'm most excited for the fireworks part of the day. I absolutely love fireworks! I feel like a little kid again whenever I watch them - mouth agape and eyes open wide in fascination. I think fireworks are magical. I especially love the ones that fill the entire sky with what looks like gold glitter. Also, I must say I enjoy the ones that don't necessarily look like fireworks, but instead look like a Mickey Mouse face, or a smiley face, or the ones above, which kind of look like flowers popping out of the ground, etc.

Have a happy, happy 4th of July, everyone! And, please be safe!

XOXO, Amy

{Photo one, two and three}

Glimpses of love

2009-07-02T14:11:00.001-07:00

Micah Dahlberg does such fun engagement and wedding photography. I love how he plays around with angles and makes wonderful use of the environment. He has a good eye for looking at things from a fresh perspective all the while keeping a traditional feeling to his images. I really want him to do my wedding photos. The only problem is that I should probably first find a guy. And then, actually get engaged. Just small technicalities though.

P.S. He's also a very talented musician.

Photos from {here}

New York, je t'aime

2009-07-01T16:20:00.009-07:00

This is just one of the many reasons I love New York City. A city-wide pillow fight - how awesome is that! Even though, unfortunately, I was not here at the time of this year's slumber party-esque event, this video, alone, brings a smile to my face.

Other reasons why I love New York (thus far): sidewalk sales, large quantities of pizza, the life and energy of the city, having something to do every day/night if you so choose, the sense of community, flowers at every corner street market, and, lastly - the subway. Everything about the subway - the music, the people watching, the accessibility, even the guys who come on with their long speeches, asking for money and suckering all the tourists.

New York - I will miss you when I'm gone, but this is not the end of our relationship. It is merely the beginning of our heated love affair.

XOXO, Amy

Video also {here}

Update: So, apparently a lot of big cities have massive pillow fights, Los Angeles included! I'm SO there next year! Thanks Marissa for telling me about that! To New York - I still think you're special, and I still love you all the same.

Let them eat cake!

2009-06-30T16:25:00.016-07:00

I want to celebrate the birth of my blog. But, what's a celebration without a cake? I found this recipe for a rainbow cake. And, after seeing the deliciousness of it, I knew I had to make it immediately. Luckily, my friend Cara's birthday was coming up - giving me a great reason to bake a cake (I don't think PMS would be reason enough to make an entire cake just for myself, ya know).

I documented my baking adventure for you. Though I may not be making a cameo on Ace of Cakes any time soon, I must give myself a pat on the back. The cake was delicious, but not just that - it was so fun just to look at! I encourage you all to channel your inner bakers and give it a whirl. If you don't have any reason to make a cake, I would welcome any "congratulations on your new blog" cakes!

Here's the ingredients you'll need. Any white cake mix will do the trick. I'd recommend getting the gel food coloring though because the colors are more vibrant.

Make the cake just as the instructions on the box tell you to. The only difference really is that you'll divide the batter up into six bowls and mix each with a different color.

Layer each color. Do one pan from red to purple and the other pan from purple working your way up to red. Don't mix the colors at all; just do one layer right on top of the other. They'll spread themselves out in the pan.

After they're done baking in the oven, stack the cakes, frost and marvel at your beautiful creation! Then, dig in and enjoy!

Greetings from Brooklyn

2009-06-29T19:24:00.017-07:00

Thanks for coming to visit my little infant of a blog. I just want to do a brief little intro of myself and this baby of mine - my first blog, that is, not an actual baby.

My name is Amy (though you probably already know that if you're here). I'm living in the wonderful city of Brooklyn for the summer while I intern for a magazine. I absolutely love this city, though have decided to return to my home state of California in August. I've tried to deny it for so long, but I must face the facts - I really am a California girl through and through. And, hey - there really can only be one Carrie Bradshaw in New York anyways. I'll have to settle for being the west coast version.

As for this blog - my hope for this is to be a place where I share things from all over the web and the city, itself, that amuse, arouse and inspire me. Mixed in with those fun little findings will be updates on my life - whenever I have interesting enough days or thoughts that yearn to be shared with the world. I plan on posting just about every weekday. Although I may have failed at many childhood diaries, I have confidence that I will be more faithful this time around. So, be sure to check back often, and tell all your friends! Enjoy the ride!

P.S. Don't be afraid to leave comments whenever too! I want this to be a two-way relationship and conversation!

XOXO, Amy

Photo from {bomobob}