This is a song called "Snow" by my favorite band, Sleeping at Last. It is from their "December" EP which was part of a year-long collection of EPs (one for each month of the year, containing 3 songs each) called "Yearbook". The video below is a compilation of shots sent in by fans...
Here are the beautiful lyrics... My favorites lines are in bold and these words are floating through my thoughts tonight, on this last day of 2011:
The branches have traded
Their leaves for white sleeves
All warm blooded creatures make ghosts as they breathe
Scarves are wrapped tightly like gifts under trees
Christmas lights tangle in knots annually
All families huddle closely
Betting warmth against the cold
All the bruises seem to surface
Like mud beneath the snow
So we sing carols softly
As sweet as we know
A prayer that our burdens will lift as we go
Like young love still waiting under mistletoe
We'll welcome December with tireless hope
Let our bells keep on ringing
Making angels in the snow
And may the melody disarm us
When the cracks begin to show
Like the petals in our pockets
May we remember who we are
Unconditionally cared for
By those who share our broken hearts
The table is set
And all glasses are full
The pieces go missing
May we still feel whole
We'll build new traditions in place of the old
Cause life without revision will silence our souls
Let the bells keep on ringing
Making angels in the snow
And may the melody surround us
When the cracks begin to show
Like the petals in our pockets
May we remember who we are
Unconditionally cared for
By those who share our broken hearts
As gentle as feathers
The snow piles high
Our world gets rewritten and retraced every time
Like fresh plates and clean slates
Our future is white
New Years resolutions are reset tonight
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, November 25, 2011
Daylight Spending Time?
I wrote this post earlier this month (as you might guess from the title, right around the Daylight Savings Time change) but, for whatever reason, didn't post it. The feelings still apply, though, so I'm posting it now! Just some thoughts on the passage of time....
I can't believe how quickly this year has flown by. 2011 is waning fast and there's so much I have yet to accomplish! I've given myself plenty of excuses for not being as productive as I would like.... starting a new job with crazy hours being the most prominent on the list. Nonetheless, I feel like someone's been winding the clock forward since March, like Daylight Savings Time decided to skip ahead several months rather than just an hour. And here we are, falling back an hour again, Thanksgiving is around the corner, then Christmas, then 2012... but I get ahead of myself. Perhaps that is the problem. I feel as though I am always thinking in the future. What's on the docket for tomorrow's work day, or next week or next month? What are our plans for this weekend?? When's our next vacation???
There's certainly nothing wrong with planning ahead. In fact, it's really a very important skill (it can be monumentally important in preventing tardiness, for example). But, it can really mess with your head. We "modern" women tend to think in schedules of "5-year plans" and career paths and biological clocks. When did it all get so complicated? For the past 3 years (or perhaps longer), I have felt like something is always just ahead, something better than what's going on in the present. When, in reality, what's right in front of my nose is really what's most important. Matthew 6:34 comes to mind: "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
We live in a world that seems to be turning faster by the day. Technology spurs an excelerated pace of life and, despite the preponderance of "social media" and persistent digital connection, we communicate and live our lives less genuinely because we are so concerned with the next big thing. It's not the technology that's bad (obviously it enables us to do some pretty incredible things), it's the mindset that goes along with it. The "I'm so worried about where I'm going to be in 6 months or 5 years that I forget how blessed I am to be living in today" mentality. It's a mindset of forgetting the blessings God has given us in this life, the relationships He puts us in and the everyday lessons He gives us the strength to experience. This is the important stuff. The world could end tomorrow, and where does our 5-year plan end up?
So, for today, it's about striking a balance. Planning with enough wisdom to be prepared for what may come, and enough faith that God will always provide and simultaneously living with the knowledge that He already has provided everything we need for this very second down to the last iota.
I can't believe how quickly this year has flown by. 2011 is waning fast and there's so much I have yet to accomplish! I've given myself plenty of excuses for not being as productive as I would like.... starting a new job with crazy hours being the most prominent on the list. Nonetheless, I feel like someone's been winding the clock forward since March, like Daylight Savings Time decided to skip ahead several months rather than just an hour. And here we are, falling back an hour again, Thanksgiving is around the corner, then Christmas, then 2012... but I get ahead of myself. Perhaps that is the problem. I feel as though I am always thinking in the future. What's on the docket for tomorrow's work day, or next week or next month? What are our plans for this weekend?? When's our next vacation???
There's certainly nothing wrong with planning ahead. In fact, it's really a very important skill (it can be monumentally important in preventing tardiness, for example). But, it can really mess with your head. We "modern" women tend to think in schedules of "5-year plans" and career paths and biological clocks. When did it all get so complicated? For the past 3 years (or perhaps longer), I have felt like something is always just ahead, something better than what's going on in the present. When, in reality, what's right in front of my nose is really what's most important. Matthew 6:34 comes to mind: "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
We live in a world that seems to be turning faster by the day. Technology spurs an excelerated pace of life and, despite the preponderance of "social media" and persistent digital connection, we communicate and live our lives less genuinely because we are so concerned with the next big thing. It's not the technology that's bad (obviously it enables us to do some pretty incredible things), it's the mindset that goes along with it. The "I'm so worried about where I'm going to be in 6 months or 5 years that I forget how blessed I am to be living in today" mentality. It's a mindset of forgetting the blessings God has given us in this life, the relationships He puts us in and the everyday lessons He gives us the strength to experience. This is the important stuff. The world could end tomorrow, and where does our 5-year plan end up?
So, for today, it's about striking a balance. Planning with enough wisdom to be prepared for what may come, and enough faith that God will always provide and simultaneously living with the knowledge that He already has provided everything we need for this very second down to the last iota.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Design Board: Rustic French Guest Bedroom
Objects can be so inspiring. A perusal of the Pier1 website gave me some fodder for a quick inspiration board: "Rustic French Guest Bedroom"
This isn't altogether rustic, nor altogether French.... really just a few different accents from each, and I couldn't think of a better title. Most of these items are sourced from Pier1; the duvet set and head board from Target. LOVE that lamp in a pale lime.... and it's on sale! Might just have to get that one right away.
I'd hang an atmospheric landscape over the bed (a la William McCarthy) and voila! the perfect haven for out-of-town guests. Maybe someday this will be a reality.... Guess you'll have to be our guests to find out ;)
This isn't altogether rustic, nor altogether French.... really just a few different accents from each, and I couldn't think of a better title. Most of these items are sourced from Pier1; the duvet set and head board from Target. LOVE that lamp in a pale lime.... and it's on sale! Might just have to get that one right away.
I'd hang an atmospheric landscape over the bed (a la William McCarthy) and voila! the perfect haven for out-of-town guests. Maybe someday this will be a reality.... Guess you'll have to be our guests to find out ;)
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Autumnal Thoughts
Fall seems to have fallen upon us. Very quickly. From the dog days of summer with blistering temperatures in the 90s, the weather has turned decidedly cooler (mid-high 60s) and that fall feeling is in the air. Fall is one of my favorite seasons and I am savouring all of the wonderful things it brings:
Photo credit: TravelSmart Blog
- Pumpkin, apple and all things spice-flavored (looking forward to trying this recipe for homemade Pumpkin Spice syrup)
- Football (although not a die-hard fan, I enjoy the idea of it... and the tailgating)
- Fall wardrobe switch -- there's a reason all the fashion mags release their big issue in September... everyone is ready for a fresh look not dictated by hot weather!
- That "new school year" feeling: I've never been able to rid my self of the sense of excitement and expectation experienced with the beginning of each new school year. An 18-year habit is hard to break.... and I love the feeling anyway! It's like the sense of inspiration that accompanies the New Year -- an emotion spontaneous and fleeting, I enjoy it while I can!
Photo credit: TravelSmart Blog
Pied Beauty
Glory be to God for dappled things-- For skies of couple-colour as a brinded cow; For rose-moles all in stipple upon trout that swim; Fresh-firecoal chestnut-falls; finches' wings; Landscape plotted and pieced--fold, fallow, and plough; And all trades, their gear and tackle and trim. All things counter, original, spare, strange; Whatever is fickle, freckled (who knows how?) With swift, slow; sweet, sour; adazzle, dim; He fathers-forth whose beauty is past change: Praise Him.
Gerard Manley Hopkins Saturday, July 16, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho, It's Off To Work I Go....
My job is changing. I've been working as long as I've been a housewife (excepting the nearly 2 months it took me to find said work) as a designer/art director for a small restaurant magazine based in the suburbs of Chicago. And for the past 2+ years, I've been working from home. Now, that is all going to change. My company is expanding, and this means investing in professional office space. For a company that has worked the remote/digital route for the past couple years, this is going to be a big shift. But it's a positive move and one I'm excited to be a part of. I only have to be in this new office 3 days a week, but all I can think about is...... What Not To Wear.
No, not the TV show (well, sort of).... more like: How do I make the shift from my normal routine of wearing PJs and lounge clothes for working from home TO dressing in a moderately professional and appropriate manner for working from an office 3 days a week? My wardrobe sports a fair selection of business casual attire (thanks to previous jobs and some fruitful shopping trips with my fashion-conscious mother), but most of it is at least 2 years old and I'm looking to invest in a few good pieces that will bring it up to speed. So, a la the wardrobe stylings of one of my favorite bloggers, here's my "palette"...
From Top, left to right:
Roll-Cuff Blazer (Kohl's) The one I originally found seems to have disappeared from their website, but you get the idea. A classic black blazer will never go out of style and can be dressed up or down: pair it with jeans and a cute top for casual; or pumps and a button down for work.
Annalise Ruffle Cami (J.Crew*) I really do like the style of J. Crew. Alas, it is a tad beyond the price range in which I typically shop. Believe me, if I could afford to pay $80-$200+ for every piece in my closet, I probably would. But then, that would take all the fun out of bargain shopping (I'm pretty much a pro bargain-hunter)! Also, if you check the link, this top in the mustard-y color did actually exist on the J. Crew website at one point.... though sadly now it seems to be sold out. It's more the color I love than the actual style. See note below.
Gray Open Front Cardigan (Kohl's) A cardigan will never fail you. An open-front cardigan seems to lend itself more to casual than business attire but, like the blazer, it can be dressed up with a nicer top and a belt cinched at the waist; or dressed down with a cute cami and skinny jeans.
Roll-Up Boyfriend Cardigan (Old Navy) Yes, another cardigan. You really can never have too many (in my honest opinion). One in every color! Speaking of color, you will notice some bright pops of it in this collection. The grayness of winter does not have to mean a gray-centric wardrobe, and I picked this palette to add some highlights to my darker pieces and also in anticipation of a lighter, brighter spring wardrobe. These fun-hued pieces will add flare to my cold-weather garments while transitioning smoothly into the next season. How, you ask? Pair this pretty cardigan with some white wide-leg trousers and a pair of cute espadrilles and POW! You're ready for spring!
Ikat Floral Bungalow Skirt (J. Crew) I love this skirt! Ikat + flora pattern = fabulous. And replete with options for mixing and matching! This a-line skirt is really the most pivotal item in this palette, as I tried to base several outfits around its color scheme. Although it is pricier (thanks, J. Crew) it will probably be my first purchase from this collection.
Ruffle Button-Down Shirt (Kohl's) This top speaks for itself. Pretty ruffles, fun color (one will little presence in my wardrobe), easy to wear for work or play. And it evens comes with a coordinating belt... Pretty and easy and fun, oh my!
Black Ankle Boot (DSW) I have avoided the "bootie" trend for a while because I wasn't too sure I could pull it off (thick, short legs are not flattered by such things). But it occurred to me that these work just as well under pants as with dresses or skinny jeans (at least until the trend wears off). And sometimes you just want the look of a boot without wearing a full boot -- really, what's a girl to do? Well, buy an ankle boot.
Embellished Satin Tank (Kohl's) I really like this color (I'm partial to blue), and the length of this top means it could be worn tunic-style over pants or tucked into a skirt for a different look. Top it with a blazer, a cardigan or go bare -- whatever the look, I think this top is going to be a great piece for mixing and matching!
Straight-Leg Black Pants Last but not least, a classically cut pair of pants. I don't have a link for this one because I really haven't found a pair that I think will work for me. There are a lot out there, but they seem to be either too flared, too wide or too skinny. I foresee a lot of trying on in efforts to find the perfect pair, but I find that process all part of the fun (for the most part). And a flattering pair of black pants is really a necessity in any wardrobe -- so I'll let you know when I find mine!
*Nota Bene: Because I shop mostly Sale items, some of these are no longer available in my size/color. So, these are really just visual standards for the types/styles of pieces I want to add to my wardrobe.
From Top, left to right:
Roll-Cuff Blazer (Kohl's) The one I originally found seems to have disappeared from their website, but you get the idea. A classic black blazer will never go out of style and can be dressed up or down: pair it with jeans and a cute top for casual; or pumps and a button down for work.
Annalise Ruffle Cami (J.Crew*) I really do like the style of J. Crew. Alas, it is a tad beyond the price range in which I typically shop. Believe me, if I could afford to pay $80-$200+ for every piece in my closet, I probably would. But then, that would take all the fun out of bargain shopping (I'm pretty much a pro bargain-hunter)! Also, if you check the link, this top in the mustard-y color did actually exist on the J. Crew website at one point.... though sadly now it seems to be sold out. It's more the color I love than the actual style. See note below.
Gray Open Front Cardigan (Kohl's) A cardigan will never fail you. An open-front cardigan seems to lend itself more to casual than business attire but, like the blazer, it can be dressed up with a nicer top and a belt cinched at the waist; or dressed down with a cute cami and skinny jeans.
Roll-Up Boyfriend Cardigan (Old Navy) Yes, another cardigan. You really can never have too many (in my honest opinion). One in every color! Speaking of color, you will notice some bright pops of it in this collection. The grayness of winter does not have to mean a gray-centric wardrobe, and I picked this palette to add some highlights to my darker pieces and also in anticipation of a lighter, brighter spring wardrobe. These fun-hued pieces will add flare to my cold-weather garments while transitioning smoothly into the next season. How, you ask? Pair this pretty cardigan with some white wide-leg trousers and a pair of cute espadrilles and POW! You're ready for spring!
Ikat Floral Bungalow Skirt (J. Crew) I love this skirt! Ikat + flora pattern = fabulous. And replete with options for mixing and matching! This a-line skirt is really the most pivotal item in this palette, as I tried to base several outfits around its color scheme. Although it is pricier (thanks, J. Crew) it will probably be my first purchase from this collection.
Ruffle Button-Down Shirt (Kohl's) This top speaks for itself. Pretty ruffles, fun color (one will little presence in my wardrobe), easy to wear for work or play. And it evens comes with a coordinating belt... Pretty and easy and fun, oh my!
Black Ankle Boot (DSW) I have avoided the "bootie" trend for a while because I wasn't too sure I could pull it off (thick, short legs are not flattered by such things). But it occurred to me that these work just as well under pants as with dresses or skinny jeans (at least until the trend wears off). And sometimes you just want the look of a boot without wearing a full boot -- really, what's a girl to do? Well, buy an ankle boot.
Embellished Satin Tank (Kohl's) I really like this color (I'm partial to blue), and the length of this top means it could be worn tunic-style over pants or tucked into a skirt for a different look. Top it with a blazer, a cardigan or go bare -- whatever the look, I think this top is going to be a great piece for mixing and matching!
Straight-Leg Black Pants Last but not least, a classically cut pair of pants. I don't have a link for this one because I really haven't found a pair that I think will work for me. There are a lot out there, but they seem to be either too flared, too wide or too skinny. I foresee a lot of trying on in efforts to find the perfect pair, but I find that process all part of the fun (for the most part). And a flattering pair of black pants is really a necessity in any wardrobe -- so I'll let you know when I find mine!
*Nota Bene: Because I shop mostly Sale items, some of these are no longer available in my size/color. So, these are really just visual standards for the types/styles of pieces I want to add to my wardrobe.
So, what are you picking out to make your wardrobe more fashion-forward and flexible for coming seasons and/or events???
Monday, January 24, 2011
Interior Designs
I love decorating. Even when I was younger, a favorite game was to re-arrange furniture in my bedroom or our playroom/study. I still get a kick out of making small changes in our apartment that pack a punch without spending a lot of $$$. Recently, Patrick has even gotten into helping out and his suggestion for a furniture rearrangement in our living room (also my office space), has made a huge difference in the space!
I am constantly perusing home stores (ZGallerie, Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, Ballard Designs, just to name a few of my favs!), but I also like to play a little game--call it the grown-up version of my childhood rearrangements--where I pick out a specific item and design a room around it (digitally, of course). The pièce de résistance is usually a piece that's on sale or something I wouldn't normally choose for myself -- this makes it more fun and challenging to work with!
This week's piece was a warm, earthy/floral-patterned duvet set on sale at Target:
I liked the warm colors and the pattern (I have a hard time saying no to florals!), and the price made it a worthwhile pick ($99 for the Queen). Also, because our bedroom is currently in a palette cool blues, I wanted to play around with a color set of an entirely different focus.
And here's what I came up with:
The linen nail-trim headboard is something I've been dreaming of for a while. A DIY project available several places online (most notably: http://isabellaandmaxrooms.blogspot.com/2010/06/progress-on-headboard-meets-upholstered.html), I'm looking forward to actually accomplishing this one someday as the in-store equivalents range from $800 to $3000!
The side tables, leather storage bench, rug and purple throw pillows are all Target finds (I've been eyeing the plum pillows for a while as well as you'll see from my Wishlist to the right!). I love the shape and color of the orange bedside lamps -- a pop of color that I wouldn't normally be drawn to, but it seems to fit with this scheme. The other accessories (wood-carved owl set, framed botanical prints, random stack of books) were all Google Images finds. I love vintage botanical prints and hope I can find a place for some in my future home.....You know, the one I'm always daydreaming about? :)
And that's my happy thought for Monday!
I am constantly perusing home stores (ZGallerie, Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, Ballard Designs, just to name a few of my favs!), but I also like to play a little game--call it the grown-up version of my childhood rearrangements--where I pick out a specific item and design a room around it (digitally, of course). The pièce de résistance is usually a piece that's on sale or something I wouldn't normally choose for myself -- this makes it more fun and challenging to work with!
This week's piece was a warm, earthy/floral-patterned duvet set on sale at Target:
And here's what I came up with:
The linen nail-trim headboard is something I've been dreaming of for a while. A DIY project available several places online (most notably: http://isabellaandmaxrooms.blogspot.com/2010/06/progress-on-headboard-meets-upholstered.html), I'm looking forward to actually accomplishing this one someday as the in-store equivalents range from $800 to $3000!
The side tables, leather storage bench, rug and purple throw pillows are all Target finds (I've been eyeing the plum pillows for a while as well as you'll see from my Wishlist to the right!). I love the shape and color of the orange bedside lamps -- a pop of color that I wouldn't normally be drawn to, but it seems to fit with this scheme. The other accessories (wood-carved owl set, framed botanical prints, random stack of books) were all Google Images finds. I love vintage botanical prints and hope I can find a place for some in my future home.....You know, the one I'm always daydreaming about? :)
And that's my happy thought for Monday!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
In the Kitchen
My New Year's resolution to be on-the-ball about meal planning and healthful cooking has been working out so far! Here was last week's "Meatless Monday" recipe...
This (90%) meatless soup was delicious, and made enough for dinner and 2 full lunches!
Cheese Tortellini & Tuscan Vegetable Soup
Directions:
1. Combine the first 6 ingredients in a 4 quart saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the tortellini, reduce heat to medium Continue cooking for around 7 minutes or until pasta and veggies are tender.
3. Stir in the grated cheese.
*Okay, so this makes the recipe not totally meatless.... but it's such a teeny amount, I'm pretending it doesn't count.
This (90%) meatless soup was delicious, and made enough for dinner and 2 full lunches!
Cheese Tortellini & Tuscan Vegetable Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 (14.5 oz) Can of Diced Tomatoes with Garlic & Onion (undrained)
- 1 (11.5 oz) Can Condensed Bean with Bacon Soup* (undiluted)
- 4 Cups Water
- 1 (16 ounce) Bag of Frozen Italian Style Veggies *
- 3/4 Teaspoon Dried Italian SeasoningI also tossed in a bunch of fresh spinach just before serving for some added greenery, and served the soup with spinach salad.
- 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
- 1/2 (9 ounce) Package of Fresh Cheese Tortellini
- 1/4 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Directions:
1. Combine the first 6 ingredients in a 4 quart saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the tortellini, reduce heat to medium Continue cooking for around 7 minutes or until pasta and veggies are tender.
3. Stir in the grated cheese.
*Okay, so this makes the recipe not totally meatless.... but it's such a teeny amount, I'm pretending it doesn't count.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Epiphany
Welcome to a new year (and a new blog design)!
2010 flew by, but I was more ready for 2011 than I expected. Ready for a clean slate, fresh start.... even though it's all really just a mental thing. We see January 1st as the start of something new because the calendar says so. Because that is the arbitrary date set for the beginning of a new calendar year. In truth, every day is a new day, a chance to be better than the last. Every Sunday the start to a new week, inspired and encouraged by Sabbath worship. That is my number one resolution for this new year: to live in each day with full awareness of the present, complete attention to giving my best effort, and acknowledgment of God's grace that has given me the chance to enjoy life in His creation for yet another day. If you're really interested, you can read my Proviso for a New Year's Revolution.
If not, here are my less-revolutionary New Year's resolutions:
Currently Listening:
Sleeping at Last, January EP
2010 flew by, but I was more ready for 2011 than I expected. Ready for a clean slate, fresh start.... even though it's all really just a mental thing. We see January 1st as the start of something new because the calendar says so. Because that is the arbitrary date set for the beginning of a new calendar year. In truth, every day is a new day, a chance to be better than the last. Every Sunday the start to a new week, inspired and encouraged by Sabbath worship. That is my number one resolution for this new year: to live in each day with full awareness of the present, complete attention to giving my best effort, and acknowledgment of God's grace that has given me the chance to enjoy life in His creation for yet another day. If you're really interested, you can read my Proviso for a New Year's Revolution.
If not, here are my less-revolutionary New Year's resolutions:
1. Paint more regularly (it's been rather sporadic since 2008)--and complete the paintings I start.
2. Exercise more often and attain a healthy weight (what this will be I'm not quite sure... I think I'll know it when I see it)
3. *Keep House... better and with a joyful spirit
*This covers a variety of concepts, including but not limited to cooking, cleaning, organizing, decorating and maintaining a general environment of comfort and joy.
*This covers a variety of concepts, including but not limited to cooking, cleaning, organizing, decorating and maintaining a general environment of comfort and joy.
4. Cook meals that are both healthy and delicious (this includes weekly meal planning to avoid last-minute restaurant meals and as well as consideration of nutritional value)!
5. Pursue contentment, peace and gratitude in any given predicament: job, location and general life situation.
6. Be more proactive in all of my relationships -- near and far.
What are your goals for this new year?
Currently Listening:
Sleeping at Last, January EP
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