tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79878473748120065552024-03-18T02:18:30.617-07:00Hello My Dear Bloghello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.comBlogger399125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-54751191194574079362012-11-02T10:17:00.001-07:002012-11-02T10:19:36.477-07:00Hello My Dear (the Dutch moniker)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://hellomydear.be/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimH8Opgnv-LZlC1lRisF3yX75xXcOdiICj4a03WNo9LA1vQms-YXVqVgmm-i-EWTFQDbzwoxqI0niiVSdHlwWAmlm7XqiTPJ4P0JFAIUcVWT5OtWloGU20Ckvu1ME9U_Zph6ZxShI3JRQ/s1600/hello-my-dear-be.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hello dear readers (old and new, English and Dutch!). I received an email last night from another Sarah with another Hello My Dear site (what are the odds?!). She and her HMD business were featured on a Flemish television show (which might be why you're here) and Google was directing many of her inquiries to me. I must right this wrong! She had this to say:<br />
<br />
Op zoek naar hellomydear na de reportage in Koppen?<br />
Het vraagt wat tijd om in Google opgenomen te worden... vandaar dat je op deze mooie blog terecht gekomen bent, in plaats van bij ons.<br />
Neus gerust nog even rond hier en klik dan door naar <a href="http://www.hellomydear.be/">www.hellomydear.be</a><br />
Groetjes, <br />
Sarah en Karolien<br />
<br />
And just in case you're curious about what this might mean, translated it's:<br />
Looking for hellomydear: the place to capture life stories?<br />
It takes some time to be published in Google, that is why you have arrived at this beautiful blog instead of with us.<br />
Do stay around here for awhile, and then click through to <a href="http://www.hellomydear.be/">www.hellomydear</a><a href="http://hellomydear.be/" target="_blank">.be</a>!<br />
Greetings, <br />
Sarah & Karolien <br />
<br />
Sarah also told me that they're going to be launching their English-language site soon (and it seems like a cool concept) so all you Americans, bookmark them and check back.<br />
Thanks all!<br />
(PS. I miss you. Thanks for your patience while life pulls me in other directions. I hope to see you again soon.)<br />
<br />hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-20289581727153029442012-08-14T13:29:00.001-07:002012-08-15T07:53:39.427-07:00Moving In: Exposed ClosetsI'm on that horrible (and also fun and exciting) journey of apartment hunting. One minute it's exhilarating and the next it's exhausting. I've been really looking for probably three weeks now and it's taking up so much space in my brain that it's hard for me to even type this post, but here we are. Moving is not fun. But moving in — that's super fun. I love to decorate, to bring my old stuff and a little bit of new stuff and repurpose it all. So, of course, when I'm not on Craig's list, I'm scouring the internets to find some fun ideas to incorporate into my new space. One thing I've been particularly intrigued by is the idea of exposed closets. Let's be honest, my clothes aren't this pretty and fortunately, most of the apartments I've looked at have had ample storage, but it's still nice to be inspired.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUtkPJRYEnqygnN4CovGhyphenhyphendbWawz_1ShNiaTp_9O5clKTxlrYTs7hLdLyn-A7V9ImjBopRg7MC9Yb3IRc2Urx4zbtiNp8k55wd6huQEJ8cpdPYwd0jZrWM67Aj1GWteQXvWB-tE794kJ8/s1600/exposed-closet-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUtkPJRYEnqygnN4CovGhyphenhyphendbWawz_1ShNiaTp_9O5clKTxlrYTs7hLdLyn-A7V9ImjBopRg7MC9Yb3IRc2Urx4zbtiNp8k55wd6huQEJ8cpdPYwd0jZrWM67Aj1GWteQXvWB-tE794kJ8/s1600/exposed-closet-1.jpg" /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTi74lFucdlBD8t_RE63QW2lSSPa7Sigm7mW0dfa5RasY0DOunz0rdobhGYhRq7kq30WJoEUa_8As6wo7_zig0yKvFjGaLVjSwlC0zTMlWscdUlymcBBedQ5N68xk8YUaUvW4-uBoJ4g/s1600/exposed-closet-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTi74lFucdlBD8t_RE63QW2lSSPa7Sigm7mW0dfa5RasY0DOunz0rdobhGYhRq7kq30WJoEUa_8As6wo7_zig0yKvFjGaLVjSwlC0zTMlWscdUlymcBBedQ5N68xk8YUaUvW4-uBoJ4g/s1600/exposed-closet-2.jpg" /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrsL5V53hJmwCBVkOM4zysrMC83pnR9UENoN6ckl66VAT5Gv8dQ1I5OalBG3JKkMeGR6gi2QALHOjxX55t8_cx4q1lwYfu2hf0Ef6ewzFAR7wcUy12khzMH5Nc0_94PjROYgLnGLdFQao/s1600/exposed-closet-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrsL5V53hJmwCBVkOM4zysrMC83pnR9UENoN6ckl66VAT5Gv8dQ1I5OalBG3JKkMeGR6gi2QALHOjxX55t8_cx4q1lwYfu2hf0Ef6ewzFAR7wcUy12khzMH5Nc0_94PjROYgLnGLdFQao/s1600/exposed-closet-3.jpg" /></a><br />
So pretty right? Images from top: <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/2462974767113484/" target="_blank">with couch</a> // <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/open-book-expos-148566" target="_blank">with large mirror</a> // <a href="http://alovelyescape.blogspot.com/2010/07/dream-loft.html" target="_blank">with purple rug</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/94505292150725620/" target="_blank">with grey stripe rug</a> // <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/open-book-expos-148566" target="_blank">behind bed</a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-51280328447025762332012-08-10T14:39:00.001-07:002012-08-10T14:39:30.482-07:00Feeling Moody: London ModHave you been watching the Olympics, friends? I'll be honest with you (and hope "they" don't make me go live on Mars), I really don't care much about all of this athletic showcasing. Don't get me wrong, I'm impressed with their self-discipline and talent and all of that... I'd just rather watch something else (preferably something on Bravo). However, I am intrigued by London. Or at least my romantic notion of London: it's all tea and biscuits, fish and chips wrapped in newspaper, phone calls in those delightful red booths, double decker buses and mod mod mod. Which brings me to today's mood board.<br />
You know Twiggy right? If you didn't know her before <a href="http://www.cwtv.com/shows/americas-next-top-model/about" target="_blank">America's Next Top Model</a> (shame on you... kidding), surely you're familiar with her now. Or you'll at least recognize the waif with the pixie cut and huge eyes shown below. She is what I think of when I picture London. I know, it's a bit like saying all of us Americans look like Cindy Crawford in all her mid-western, corn fed beauty, but I can't help myself.<br />
Here—get in the Mod mood:<br />
<br />
<img alt="twiggy" height="1024" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8433/7755131100_f944a9a656_b.jpg" width="726" />Super fun right? And it's all from companies located in the UK. Here, I'll prove it to you:<br />
<a href="http://contagiousfashionfever.blogspot.com/2011/04/twiggy.html" target="_blank">Twiggy</a>, <a href="http://www.luluguinness.com/ProductPage.aspx?productId=UMBR-720-073-010" target="_blank">umbrella</a>, <a href="http://www.luluguinness.com/ProductPage.aspx?productId=LULU-0260-504-093-105" target="_blank">coin purse</a>, <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/what-s-for-english-breakfast-dress" target="_blank">peter pan collared frock</a> (oooooh! I'm so British.), <a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/index.tmpl" target="_blank">MAC lipstick</a>, <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-LEIGH-Patent-Ballet-Flats-with-T-bar/x1u7c/?iid=1824960&cid=4172&Rf900=1564&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Nudepatent&mporgp=L0FTT1MvQVNPUy1MRUlHSC1QYXRlbnQtQmFsbGV0LUZsYXRzLXdpdGgtVC1iYXIvUHJvZC8." target="_blank">t-strap ballet flats</a> (I'm a little obsessed with these) and <a href="http://www.liberty.co.uk/fcp/product/Liberty/BRACELETS/Charmed-Memories-Bracelet/77282" target="_blank">charmed bracelet</a>.hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-74895946204415232292012-03-26T10:37:00.002-07:002012-03-26T10:37:48.692-07:00Pretty Party: Sweet Caroline + AndyHelllllllllo my dear! Oh how I've missed you! Please forgive my absence and know that you've all been in my heart as life has been whooshing past me these past few months. What a whirlwind! And it's not over but I couldn't stand to be away any longer. And when I came across this absolutely lovely wedding I had to share. The whole thing was a mix of elegance and industry and it was executed perfectly. Oh! And how stinkin cute are the bride and groom and every last one of their lovely guests? Looks like such a fun party!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/7018044991/" title="Caroline and Andrew by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Caroline and Andrew" height="1038" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6106/7018044991_5e59e1b428_o.jpg" width="740" /></a> <img alt="Caroline and Andrew" height="751" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6057/6871937238_aaa78fb0f3_o.jpg" width="740" />All of the images are from the incredibly talented <a href="http://photojj.com/#/special/splash/" target="_blank">Jenny Jimenez</a>. Her portfolio is so much fun. And if you just have to see more of this sweet couple, check out their awesome <a href="http://www.photojj.com/blog/?p=3091" target="_blank">engagement session</a> (also by Jenny). See you soon!hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-59404796002742943562012-01-19T11:39:00.000-08:002012-01-19T11:39:57.382-08:00Moving In: Berlin ResidenceOur new friend Malin Elmlid is, of course, a baker and fashion consultant living in Berlin. Her apartment is light and natural and unfussy. And I'd move in in a second.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6721965967/" title="Berlin Residence by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Berlin Residence" height="688" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6721965967_61bf65c208_o.jpg" width="740" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6721965415/" title="Berlin Residence by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Berlin Residence" height="1055" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6721965415_a295369315_o.jpg" width="740" /></a>
<img alt="Berlin Residence" height="949" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6721965723_abef328703_o.jpg" width="740" />This is exactly what I want my next apartment to look like.<br />
Read her story and see more images <a href="http://www.freundevonfreunden.com/interviews/malin-elmlid/" target="_blank">here</a>.hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-54855956074745022972012-01-16T10:40:00.000-08:002012-01-16T10:40:39.690-08:00Pretty Parties: Lipstick at the Golden GlobesDid you watch the Golden Globes last night? I did. Well, sort of. I was watching it with a handful of rather impatient people so we fast-forwarded through quite a bit of it (oh, modern technology). But one thing I did watch was all of the gorgeous actresses and their gorgeous lipstick. So much inspiration this year! Mauve and cherry and strawberry- oh my! You can probably tell by the massive picture of her beautiful face, but Claire Danes knocked my socks off. She just keeps getting better and better doesn't she? So lovely.<br />
<img alt="Lipstick at the Golden Globes" height="1301" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6709373793_1ab993c932_o.jpg" width="740" />sources: <a href="http://www.beautybloggingjunkie.com/" target="_blank">claire danes</a> // <a href="http://celebrity-gossip.net/golden-globe-awards-2012/dianna-agrons-golden-globes-red-carpet-radiance-576713" target="_blank">dianna agron</a> // <a href="http://www.hollywoodlife.com/2012/01/15/golden-globes-awards-angelina-jolie-beauty-lipstick/" target="_blank">angelina jolie</a> // <a href="http://www.bellasugar.com/Mauve-Lipstick-Golden-Globes-2012-21344005" target="_blank">evan rachel wood</a> // <a href="http://dailyloreena.tumblr.com/post/15924705538" target="_blank">kate winslet</a> // <a href="http://flutie.tumblr.com/post/15941169381/maya-rudolph-at-the-69th-annual-golden-globe" target="_blank">maya rudolph</a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-86233085778813350612012-01-09T07:59:00.000-08:002012-01-09T07:59:45.432-08:00Look At This: Tweed RunHappy New Year my dear! I hope it's off to an amazing start! I also hope one of your new years resolutions is to wear more tweed and ride vintage bikes through the streets of New York. Because apparently everyone who does this is fabulous. <a href="http://www.rugby.com/tweedrun/?ab=topnav_tweedrun" target="_blank">The Tweed Run</a> is a sponsored event by the king of prep himself, Mr. Ralph Lauren (or at least his brand sponsors it) and the gorgeous Jamie Beck was a featured blogger who captured the day beautifully. Just take a peek at these images.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6667315445/" title="Tweed Run by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Tweed Run" height="1059" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6667315445_48df4da501_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6667316897/" title="Tweed Run by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Tweed Run" height="1497" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6667316897_e89c0d3412_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6667317903/" title="Tweed Run by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Tweed Run" height="1051" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6667317903_ebbbfa6a05_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
So beautiful. Speaking of, our talented photographer friend, Ms. Jamie Beck is the first pretty lady on the bike in the top left. Isn't she adorable. Yes, yes she is.<br />
(all images are from her delightful blog, <a href="http://fromme-toyou.tumblr.com/post/11579136168/tweed-run" target="_blank">From Me To You</a>)hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-23526137365620416682011-12-15T06:39:00.000-08:002011-12-15T06:39:12.220-08:00Moving In: Christmas ShedsThere's something so charming about a thoughtfully created shed. Remember <a href="http://hellomydearblog.blogspot.com/2011/06/moving-in-artemis-naos-sheds.html" target="_blank">Artemis and Nao</a>'s fabulous shed workspaces? I can definitely see those sweet sheds decorated for Christmas and looking a little something like this.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6515885493/" title="Holiday Sheds by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Holiday Sheds" height="790" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6515885493_ddfd9df8cb_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
Aren't they amazing?<br />
images from top left and clockwise: wood siding // <a href="http://pristinecristine.blogspot.com/2011/09/shed-serendipity.html" target="_blank">green wreath</a> // <a href="http://lifeatbuttercupfarm.com/christmas-shed/" target="_blank">window boxes</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/621845699/" target="_blank">lovely lighting</a> // <a href="http://houseandhome.com/design/photo-gallery-outdoor-holiday-decorations?page=8" target="_blank">white shed</a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-16671552819276107692011-12-02T12:54:00.000-08:002011-12-02T12:54:03.128-08:00Look At This: 365 Lucky DaysSo, remember when we used to have time to "create" things? Oh, me either really but I do remember a time when I was less busy and can imagine I may have filled that time creating. Until we get to that point again, let's live vicariously through the incredibly talented Lucky who's decided to make something every day for a whole year: hence the "<a href="http://365luckydays.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">365 lucky days</a>" project. Her hand-embroidered portraits on top of vintage fabrics make me super happy. Especially because she themes them around topics like "blog crush" and "take this job and shove it". The ladies I'm sharing are from her "bombshell" week and the fellas are from "I think I love you but I'm a preteen and my mom says it's just hormones" week. Hilarious.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6443267445/" title="365 Lucky Days by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="365 Lucky Days" height="739" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7005/6443267445_4f285c3a51_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6443269959/" title="365 Lucky Days by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="365 Lucky Days" height="739" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7174/6443269959_aae8e0bc77_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
These are so many more are from the <a href="http://365luckydays.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">365 Lucky Days</a> blog. Check it.hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-65120930959889589162011-11-28T12:34:00.000-08:002011-11-28T12:36:24.364-08:00Look At This: Christmas DioramasI hope you had a fabulous Thanksgiving! Mine was really delicious and relaxing—everything you hope it will be! Did you all go out on Friday? Well, I did. And I don't want to talk about it really. It was a disaster. But, I got myself a super great electric toothbrush for a super great price so it was all worth it. Hmmmmm... Let's move on.<br />
Dioramas are so magical aren't they? I kind of forgot how much I love them until I was spending way too much time on pinterest yesterday and ran across a handful of pins from a <a href="http://pinterest.com/marisahines/" target="_blank">friend of mine</a>. I'm inspired to make one of my own (or at least seek out a fun one on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/" target="_blank">etsy</a>). Do you have any?<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6420560881/" title="Christmas Dioramas by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Dioramas" height="845" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6420560881_66a71125d9_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6420563947/" title="Christmas Dioramas by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Dioramas" height="558" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6034/6420563947_547eb5bbf4_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
images (from top left): <a href="http://ullam.typepad.com/ullabenulla/paper_art/" target="_blank">winter scenes under domes (both)</a> // <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/room-wall-decor/wishing-you-a-meta-holiday-ornament" target="_blank">tree under bell</a> // <a href="http://poketo.com/shop/living?product_id=1322" target="_blank">japanese paper scene</a> // <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sheishine/6351425863/in/pool-craft/" target="_blank">octopus</a> // <a href="http://sketch-jones.blogspot.com/2009/12/i-love-christmas-part-1-diorama.html" target="_blank">house</a> // <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60551640/christmas-woodland-diorama-vintage?ref=sr_gallery_16&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=diorama&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade" target="_blank">reindeer</a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-40833651584590157612011-11-07T03:00:00.000-08:002011-11-07T03:00:06.579-08:00Pretty Party: Indian SummerWe've been having unseasonably warm weather lately. Well, that means it's been 60 (which isn't quite 16 degrees Celsius in case you don't deal with Fahrenheit) which isn't exactly a heat wave, but for the first part of November it seems pretty mild. Don't get ahead of yourself, I'm definitely not calling this an Indian Summer but it is lovely and enjoyable like an Indian Summer is. Which is why when I ran across this workshop featured on <a href="http://www.100layercake.com/blog/2011/11/01/indian-summer-floral-workshop-by-amy-osaba/" target="_blank">100 Layer Cake</a> I felt like it was timely. I suppose in all honestly I'd share this with you without any correlation to the weather. It's stunning. And I know you're going to feel a few things: awe + inspiration + jealousy. At least that's how I felt when I looked at it. Why can't I live in an awesome city that does awesome workshops where you not only learn to make fabulous floral arrangements but you get to eat cupcakes and wear flowers in your hair? Dang it. I'm outta here Illinois—I'm off to visit <a href="http://amyosaba.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amy Osaba</a> (and her fantastic new work space) in Atlanta.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6320327259/" title="Indian Summer Event - Amy Osaba by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Indian Summer Event - Amy Osaba" height="1096" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6038/6320327259_17fd9806f6_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6320327501/" title="Indian Summer Event - Amy Osaba by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Indian Summer Event - Amy Osaba" height="1089" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6217/6320327501_5ac34981e7_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
images from <a href="http://www.100layercake.com/blog/2011/11/01/indian-summer-floral-workshop-by-amy-osaba/" target="_blank">100 layer cake</a> (except the first graphic image which is from and designed by <a href="http://ericaloesing.com/" target="_blank">erica loesing</a>)hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-89187366362987113562011-11-03T10:27:00.000-07:002011-11-03T10:27:39.397-07:00Moving In: StråhattfabrikenOh you lovely Swedes — you sure know how to design for my heart. This apartment complex was once a factory and is now the most gorgeous space. Such light and openness. If you weren't so far away (and probably a zillion dollars more than I could afford) I'd be putting in an application immediately.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6309284813/" title="Stråhattfabriken by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Stråhattfabriken " height="1032" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6230/6309284813_bbab7f0a2d_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
all images from the Oscar Properties <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_417895648"><span id="goog_417895644"></span></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a><a href="http://www.oscarproperties.se/project/strahattfabriken/?locale=en_GB" target="_blank">website</a><span id="goog_417895645"></span> (check it out, there are lots of inspiring projects featured).hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-32791893257002326872011-10-27T12:47:00.000-07:002011-10-27T12:47:42.354-07:00Look At This: Miss EveNormally when I see a "look-at-my-style" blog I have one of three reactions: eye roll (oops, did I say that outloud?), overwhelming knowledge of how I'll never be that cool or I'm inspired to rock a huge flower and mix some patterns. When Bri (of <a href="http://www.designlovefest.com/2011/10/eve/" target="_blank">designlovefest</a>) introduced me to this teensy fashionista I was incredibly inspired. <a href="http://nectarandlight.typepad.com/allabouteve/" target="_blank">Eve</a> is the daughter of the amazing photographer <a href="http://www.byjenaltman.com/" target="_blank">Jen Altman</a> and is only five years old! The little "about Eve" section declares that she puts her outfits together entirely on her own and then, when she feels like it, has her mama take her picture. Then it gets blogged to inspire us all. Adorable.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6286525011/" title="Little Eve by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Little Eve" height="973" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6211/6286525011_f8e2926469_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
I am sincerely on the lookout for a pair of cowboy boots. Amazing.<br />
(all images from Eve's<a href="http://nectarandlight.typepad.com/allabouteve/" target="_blank"> blog</a>)hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-65392921874626105802011-10-25T06:17:00.000-07:002011-10-25T06:17:05.475-07:00Meet: Seth SmootHello my dear! I hope your week is off to an excellent start. We've been having a bit of off-and-on indian summer for the past couple of weeks and yesterday was another gorgeous fall day. This morning, however, looks a little gloomy and cold so today's post is a bit more grey than bright orange. You know how I love a moody photograph and <a href="http://www.sethsmoot.com/" target="_blank">Mr. Seth Smoot</a> of NYC sure delivers. I saw his work on one of my all-time favorites, <a href="http://emmas.blogg.se/" target="_blank">emmas design blogg</a>, and had to scoot on over and see his portfolio for myself. What a talent. Here are some that I was drawn to.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6278529602/" title="Meet: Seth Smoot by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Meet: Seth Smoot" height="831" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6227/6278529602_6ff304095d_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6278008327/" title="Meet: Seth Smoot by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Meet: Seth Smoot" height="636" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6224/6278008327_15cdf220a5_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6278008439/" title="Meet: Seth Smoot by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Meet: Seth Smoot" height="344" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6212/6278008439_50df500b75_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
Don't you just want to go outside right this minute and collect some twigs to paint the most vibrant mustard yellow imaginable? Me too! At least they're easy to gather this time of year. Have a good day!<br />
(all images are from Seth's <a href="http://www.sethsmoot.com/" target="_blank">portfolio</a>. Pop on over there to see them all!)hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-58877006455893285152011-10-21T12:50:00.000-07:002011-10-21T12:50:14.410-07:00Listen To This: Cotton JonesOh man. Plaid, beards, scarves and honey-coated voices with acoustic guitar. This song has my name written all over it. Hope you enjoy it. (PS. Thanks miss Rachel for the introduction! Fall mixes are the best.)<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="540" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/YiVPgcjPj9c" width="720"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://www.cottonjones.com/" target="_blank">cotton jones</a> // i am the changerhello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-31059809252005953852011-10-18T06:30:00.000-07:002011-10-18T06:30:23.941-07:00Meet: Mary BlairPinterest is blowing up! More and more of my friends are joining (which by the way means more and more of your friends are joining too - are you there already?). This is great news because the internet is humongous and I just don't have enough time to look at it all. Luckily my friends (real life or internet based) are pinning up a storm. One <a href="http://pinterest.com/ashleyisenhour/mary-blair/">lovely lady</a> I follow introduced me to the artist Mary Blair and I knew I had to share her with you. Mary was an artist with Disney from 1943 - 1953 and her hand touched some of my favorite Disney classics such as Peter Pan, Cinderella and Alice in Wonderland. Her watercolors are so whimsical and sweet — I know you'll love them.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6256918061/" title="Mary Blair by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Mary Blair" height="876" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6222/6256918061_8c21a417d1_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6256918697/" title="Mary Blair by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Mary Blair" height="1079" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6032/6256918697_baa705df10_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
images from top left and across: <a href="http://magicofmaryblair.com/mary-gallery.htm">flying</a> // <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1260696@N22/pool/">alice tea</a> // <a href="http://theartofanimation.tumblr.com/post/10266256852/mary-blair">cinderella mirror</a> // <a href="http://magicofmaryblair.com/mary-gallery.htm">caterpillar</a> // <a href="http://magicofmaryblair.com/mary-gallery.htm">apple blossoms</a> // <a href="http://magedesign.com/pleasure/2009/12/30/a-tribute-to-mary-blair/">sleeping beauty</a> // <a href="http://magicofmaryblair.com/mary-gallery.htm">cinderella castle</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/ashleyisenhour/mary-blair/">tinkerbell</a> // <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1260696@N22/pool/">alices table</a> // <a href="http://magedesign.com/pleasure/2009/12/30/a-tribute-to-mary-blair/">lost boys</a> // <a href="http://magicofmaryblair.com/mary-gallery.htm">cinderella + the prince</a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-80521337788992677422011-10-17T08:58:00.000-07:002011-10-17T08:58:01.636-07:00Look At This: Swedish Playground DesignOh my goodness. As if I needed yet another reason to wish I lived in Sweden. How sweet and awesome are these playgrounds? I follow the blog of Elisabeth Dunker called <a href="http://www.finelittleday.com/" target="_blank">Fine Little Day</a> which chronicles her gorgeous life and her design inspiration. She recently posted about an amazing playground near to her home that has characters fashioned after a popular (in Sweden anyway) <a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=Inger+and+Lasse+Sandbergs+childrens+book,+Lilla+Anna+and+L%C3%A5nga+farbron,&oe=UTF-8&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hl=sv&tbm=isch&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&biw=1100&bih=930#q=lilla+anna+och+l%C3%A5nga+farbrorn&um=1&hl=sv&client=safari&rls=en&tbm=isch&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_cp.,cf.osb&fp=dcc3785644f3cdf6&biw=1255&bih=629" target="_blank">children's book</a>. They got me interested in other playgrounds in Sweden and, of course, they're fabulous. Here are some of my finds. Happy Monday my dear! Get out and play!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6254365642/" title="Swedish playgrounds by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Swedish playgrounds" height="522" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6109/6254365642_28a52d498f_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6253834295/" title="Swedish playgrounds by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Swedish playgrounds" height="852" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6160/6253834295_5290289776_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
image sources from top left and across: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/playgroundology/galleries/72157627695017780/#photo_4055199896" target="_blank">little blue houses</a> // <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/playgroundology/galleries/72157627695017780/#photo_4055199896" target="_blank">caterpillar</a> // <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/playgroundology/galleries/72157627695017780/#photo_4055199896" target="_blank">watermelon</a> // <a href="http://www.finelittleday.com/?p=551" target="_blank">dog</a> // <a href="http://www.finelittleday.com/?p=551" target="_blank">dog's behind</a> // <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/playgroundology/galleries/72157627695017780/#photo_4055199896" target="_blank">capped character</a> // <a href="http://www.luckymag.com/kids/blogs/2011/09/fine-little-day-playgrounds" target="_blank">reclining man</a> // <a href="http://daddytypes.com/2009/04/08/the_egg_and_stuff_mod_swedish_playgrounds_by_egon_moeller-nielsen.php" target="_blank">egg</a> // <a href="http://www.luckymag.com/kids/blogs/2011/09/fine-little-day-playgrounds" target="_blank">teeter totter</a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-88908931816142773132011-10-14T06:47:00.000-07:002011-10-14T06:47:31.336-07:00Listen To This: The EelsHello my dear! I hope you've had a good week - it's a gorgeous Fall morning here and I'm about to join up with a couple of girlfriends to hit, what has the potential to be, an awesome vintage/handmade sale. So exciting! But before I go I thought you might like a sweet song to start your weekend.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="414" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/NQwsiIlIfH8" width="736"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://www.eelstheband.com/" target="_blank">the eels</a>//that look you give that guy<br />
Don't you just love a bearded man? I sure do. Although his is maybe a little out of control he's adorable. See you next week!hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-24914752577191241562011-10-13T05:48:00.000-07:002011-10-13T05:48:04.304-07:00Pretty Party: Pink + Blue + Sugary SweetI have many talented friends with many unique and awe-inspiring gifts but only one of them (sweet <a href="http://www.lindsayletters.com/" target="_blank">Lindsay</a>) has the ability to make the words "key lime tartlets" look even more delicious than the tartlets themselves. I am not the only person that has realized she has amazing penmanship—luckily there are lots of people from all over the country that have asked her to create things for them. And, yeah for us!, one bridal shower she made art for was featured on <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/2011/10/03/houston-bridal-shower-from-eventology-forever-photography/" target="_blank">Style Me Pretty</a> last week. Which means I have some great photos for you that not only showcase her work but is a darn sweet bridal shower. Blue and pink is always a good idea and in this case, with all of the sugary sweet details, it's an important grounder for the decor. Without that pop of sassy blue the entire party (cutie guests included) would've floated into the sky.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6240632758/" title="bridal-shower-lindsayletters by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="bridal-shower-lindsayletters" height="1083" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6161/6240632758_13b00b3fde_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6240118013/" title="bridal-shower-lindsayletters2 by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="bridal-shower-lindsayletters2" height="1285" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6052/6240118013_f9a223c67f_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
Who needs a cookie? Me too - let's go!<br />
(all images from <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/2011/10/03/houston-bridal-shower-from-eventology-forever-photography/" target="_blank">Style Me Pretty</a>)hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-36620387878685471962011-10-06T19:35:00.000-07:002011-10-06T19:39:46.464-07:00At The Design Blog: October CalendarWell, it's only just October, luckily. With the month or so I've been having I'm surprised that I'm getting this up at all! It's one of my favorites though so I had to share it. Head over to <a href="http://sarahaxelson.blogspot.com/2011/10/desktop-calendar-october.html" target="_blank">the Design Blog</a> to see the whole thing and download your copy.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6218639973/" title="October calendar sneak by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="October calendar sneak" height="189" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6236/6218639973_ee5161bf5e_o.jpg" width="750" /></a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-46398226237307359402011-10-04T07:19:00.000-07:002011-10-04T07:19:17.378-07:00Hello My Dear + Welcome to the LaundromatHi there friends. I know you've missed me (I've missed you too!) but all sorts of new things are happening around here and I'm just plain ol' busy with life stuff. I'm not leaving, don't tear up prematurely, I'm just posting a little less frequently (obviously).<br />
That said, my sweet friend Christina asked me to do a guest post on her blog while she's away from her computer for a bit. Want to learn a little more about me? Head over <a href="http://welcometothelaundromat.blogspot.com/2011/10/some-thoughts-on-being-silly-by-sarah.html" target="_blank">there</a>.<br />
Oh and I'll have something for you tomorrow (including, but hopefully not limited to, the October calendar). xohello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-85051906778596420292011-09-29T08:20:00.000-07:002011-09-29T08:20:01.156-07:00Moving In: A House on the HudsonHave you seen <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0356680/" target="_blank">The Family Stone</a>? It's this pseudo-Christmas movie that I think is actually quite charming and lovely but a lot of people I know really don't like it. Maybe it's because it's a little dark and heavy for a Holiday film or maybe it's because it has Sarah Jessica Parker in it (people seem to have a really strong opinion of her one way or the other... usually the other). Anyway, I love it. I watch it all year 'round. I think one of the reasons I love it is because of the family house. It's so warm and full and reflects a life devoted to beautiful and creative things. You should see it if for no other reason than the set is inspiring. That said, when I ran across this Hudson Valley home on <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/home-tour-house-on-the-hudson" target="_blank">Martha Stewarts</a> site it really reminded me of the Stone house and I thought you might like to see it.<br />
The owner is the gorgeous white-haired lady in the first row of photos. I love to see the people who live in these spaces - you can attach so much personality to their faces when you look at the rooms they inhabit. She's done a wonderful job of incorporating classical pieces in an eclectic and not-at-all stuffy manner. The house sits on 87 acres and the house looks quite big, so I bet she wouldn't mind company.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6195382166/" title="House on the Hudson by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="House on the Hudson" height="766" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6143/6195382166_554c8c0272_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6194865111/" title="House on the Hudson by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="House on the Hudson" height="1379" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6169/6194865111_b8a4b95023_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
All images are from <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/home-tour-house-on-the-hudson" target="_blank">Martha</a> (and there are even a handful more including a charming craft room she made for her twelve grandkids. Lucky kids.)hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-16029837751834167882011-09-28T06:43:00.000-07:002011-09-28T06:43:54.495-07:00Loving: Round BarnsMy mom and I drove from Rockford to Oregon, Illinois yesterday. It's been wet the past few days so although we're in Fall and technically everything is dying, the world was spectacularly green and lush. The drive is really lovely - tree lined roads, the river in all of its swollen majesty and some really gorgeous old buildings. Especially the barns. I'm particularly attracted to round barns. Something about them is so whimsical and charming don't you think? It's the circle - circles are definitely the friendliest shape. I've collected some round barns for you -have you ever seen one of these in person? Even the broken down ones are glorious.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6192136106/" title="Round Barns by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Round Barns" height="1068" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6173/6192136106_8cec594c99_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
images from: <a href="http://www.westbywi.com/roundBarns.html" target="_blank">westby</a> // <a href="http://www.ohiobarns.com/rbwebpgs/il/ilrdmp.html" target="_blank">ohio barns</a> // <a href="http://gwengutwein.com/Indiana%20Barns.htm" target="_blank">gwen gutwein</a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-82525469357526049222011-09-22T04:59:00.000-07:002011-09-22T05:00:00.037-07:00Look At This: Handwritten Letter ProjectI went to a flea market this past weekend (as an aside, it's a good thing I don't have a million and a half dollars and a huge house because I'd fill it with every awesome vintage thing I loved - which is pretty much all of them - and no one needs that many salt and pepper shakers). Among the couple of things I did come home with was this gorgeous, illustrated souvenir book of the Chicago World's Fair in the 1930s. The watercolor illustrations and few sentences about each exhibit were incentive enough to buy it; but it didn't stop there. On the exterior flap of the book, in traditional "old person" handwriting, the worlds "old" and "save" were written. Looking at that script made me miss every single elderly person I've lost and I felt like (a) any of them would've written that because they knew a cool thing when they saw it and (b) since they all seem to have exactly the same penmanship any of them actually could've written it. Now they probably didn't, but that's the thing about that era of students learning cursive: for some reason, no matter where they were in the US and even abroad from what I can see, they all learned the same style. I don't have the energy to talk about whether or not this was a good thing and what social implications this conveys, but I do have the energy to say that at the very least, that generation knew how to write. They could put pen to the paper without it turning into a giant scribbly mess (well most of them anyway) and they were forced to communicate with each other in a physical as opposed to digital fashion. I'm not going to tell you to write more letters but I will say that your great great grandchildren (or just some random child in the future) will probably be way more excited to find a handwritten note than an email.<br />
This is not the first time you're hearing this. This is also probably not the first time you've told yourself "self, pen more letters to the people you love". However, this may be the first time you're seeing this "<a href="http://www.handwrittenletterproject.com/" target="_blank">Handwritten Letter Project</a>" in which <a href="http://www.craigoldham.co.uk/projects/10-penneth/" target="_blank">Craig Oldham</a> invited designers and artist to write him a letter on their own stationery. Some were simply that and others had a little note and a lot of illustration or a note with beautifully hand-rendered type. I'd like to get my hands on a copy of this book to read what people thought worthy of writing and also to see the vast differences in modern penmanship. It's very fascinating to me. Take a peek.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6170367952/" title="Hand written letter project by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Hand written letter project" height="909" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6153/6170367952_8c98d71eda_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6169832907/" title="Hand written letter project by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Hand written letter project" height="882" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6178/6169832907_e020186271_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6169832961/" title="Hand written letter project by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt="Hand written letter project" height="834" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6161/6169832961_2c9598fe22_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
images from the <a href="http://www.handwrittenletterproject.com/" target="_blank">HLP site</a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987847374812006555.post-83303616356429255742011-09-21T02:00:00.000-07:002011-09-21T02:00:00.081-07:00Pretty Party: Shower ShowerI went to a super sweet baby shower this past Sunday for a super sweet girlfriend of mine. The theme of said shower was pretty much just awesomeness - bunting and delicious nibblies and fruit-infused water served in glass baby bottles (which I'd never seen before—and I've been to my fair share of showers). Now I'm not exactly opposed to "themes" but they have the tendency to get a little out of hand. I've found one though that got me pretty excited. Have you seen this before? A "shower" shower? Isn't it clever? I don't think it's crazy overdone so that's a check in the positive column. What do you think?<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/toodleson/6168222554/" title=""shower" shower by Toodleson, on Flickr"><img alt=""shower" shower" height="1217" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6177/6168222554_b78aabe069_o.jpg" width="740" /></a><br />
image sources: <a href="http://www2.fiskars.com/Activities/Crafting/Articles/Baby-Shower" target="_blank">blue + yellow</a> // <a href="http://forum.baby-gaga.com/about1000354.html" target="_blank">umbrella + rain</a> // <a href="http://blowoutparty.com/blog/2011/05/splashing-in-rain-puddles-party/" target="_blank">cloud cookies</a> // <a href="http://www2.fiskars.com/Activities/Crafting/Articles/Baby-Shower" target="_blank">striped straws</a> // <a href="http://www2.fiskars.com/Activities/Crafting/Articles/Baby-Shower" target="_blank">cloud cupcakes</a> // <a href="http://blowoutparty.com/blog/2011/05/splashing-in-rain-puddles-party/" target="_blank">watering can</a> // <a href="http://www2.fiskars.com/Activities/Crafting/Articles/Baby-Shower" target="_blank">rain + white pouf</a> // <a href="http://blowoutparty.com/blog/2011/05/splashing-in-rain-puddles-party/" target="_blank">artwork</a> // <a href="http://blowoutparty.com/blog/2011/05/splashing-in-rain-puddles-party/" target="_blank">rainboots</a>hello my dearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05139677028641537262noreply@blogger.com0