sheer whimsy

A wondrous weekend shall ensue

2011-08-19T07:02:00.000-07:00

due to the heart-happifying profusion of outingsto scour nooks and crannies all o'er town for time-honored treasuresto augment the amalgamation of vintage artifacts.Happy Friday, friendly folks!

Party proposal poppin'

2011-08-18T06:56:00.000-07:00

Behold, 'tis my turn to pop the question these days. Though paling in comparison to the perfectly poppin' proposal, my surreptitious scheme to propose to my bridal party consisted of embellished handcrafted cards accompanied by goodie boxes.
Each lovely lady received one of each upon which her respective name is scribed and stamped in a most personalized manner.
A poem characterized by lilting end rhyme was affectionately penned within on aged notebook paper,
whilst a doily stamped with the gal's name adorned the top.
After perusing the piece of poetry, the cheery chum decoded the highlighted message that read, "Will you be my bridesmaid?" followed by a heart cut out from a vintage novel and my signature.
A reminder leaflet stamped with the impending wedding date was sewn in for good measure.
Thence the amiable recipient peeked within the fabric-taped goodie parcel to chance upon endearing vintage fabric
enveloping a trio of deliciously divine macarons to entice her tastebuds.
I'm so honored they responded with a resounding "yes!" They are each so indubitably beautiful in their own way and have been such significant gifts from the Lord to me (and Alex). Thank you so very much, lovely ladies. God has used you each to greatly encourage and edify me for years to perceive more deeply the love of Christ and I dare not envision being up with there without you eight!

Can't wait to meet you, Babycakies #4

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Therefore, a overwhelmingly charming cupcake-decorating soiree had to occur for dear Ruby.See more photographs here!

The summertide season entails

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cornflower blue expanses dotted with twinkling lights,tastebud-tickling barbeque,and all the accompanying fixins',old-fashioned root beer fizziness,a rejuvenating citrus water beverage station,whimsically arresting vintage par avion envelopes, aged notebook paper, and golden yellow pencils of yore (all of which towards I've unabashed predilection)for affable guests to scribe nifty notes for a cordial celebrant,followed by a slew of homecrafted cupcakes,and an enticingly decadent ice cream sundae bar.Cheers!

In a sincerely surreal state

2011-07-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

for we are divinely, marvelously, indubitably ENGAGED as of this Thursday prior!!!Peruse the perfectly poppin' proposal on my monoblog here. I'm utterly blessed, indeed.

Dolling up

2010-09-02T12:14:00.000-07:00

birthday parcels with sewn doily cards embellished with vintage buttons fit snugly within aged par avion envelopes, bakers twine, and pale-hued flora that emanate sheer whimsy is quite a strong predisposition of mine.

Weekend heartwarmers

2010-08-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

materialized in the framework of an excursion to a neighboring flea market's debut,to which we were benevolently bequeathed VIP passes from the powers that be.I am propelled to lament: 'tis not a flea rife with the envisioned bounty of time-honored knick knacks, as expectantly flaunted at my habitual haunts,
though I dare not wager that the LA Flea Market was wholly devoid of tried and true antiquities,
even if honest to goodness vintage curios were more difficult to unearth whilst navigating
the sea of quality-defunct swap meet style oddities.'Twas more reminiscent of a telltale tourist trap in that aspect, especially with live tunes blaring
tangent to a fenced in watering hole for bougie characters,
and a chromatic line-up of the current yet transient Los Angeles fad
that is redefining culinary convenience - extravagance-brandishing food trucks.
The promenade lingered with an impromptu stopover at the bakeshop phenomenon named after the quintessential dessert complement, Milk,
for the mold-defying concoction of macaron ice cream sandwiches dunked in decadent chocolate.
'Tis times like these that I cannot help but to be convinced that God is so good to allow for such blessed and undeserved reveries in life's brouhaha.

Friday flashback

2010-08-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

to a relevant sunbeamy afternoontide a smidgen more than a moon ago since I am bearing the brunt of the malady dubbed the crafting itch: the Renegade Los Angeles Craft Fair at The Cornfield, where proponents of the handmade lifestyle
including a convivial chum and myself, corralled from near and farto plummet ourselves in creative juice-motivated crafting workshops,handcrafted goody perusing and purchasing,and, to constitute the cheeriest part of the rendezvous, calling upon crafting queen chummies,Ruby,and Danni (whose handmade lovelies were incontestably the cream of the crop).
And, of course, traipsing the handmade wonderland with dear friends I miss dearly,and a couple of the most winsome kiddos in my merry microcosm.One of my far-fetched starry-eyed dreams (that I must admit I am a wee bit apprehensive to admit) was to show at a craft fair this year, but alas, God possessed other plans to monopolize my priorities. One day, prayerfully! Nevertheless, I do hope you'd be able to check off to-dos on your to-do list that you've been antsy to accomplish of late, whether 'tis rambunctiously catching up with a lovely loved one o'er a colossal cup o' froyo. Or tidying up thy abode to a spick and span state. Or progressing in the job prowl. Or organizing in a detailed degree thy life on paper. Or scouring the City of Angels for the tastiest French macaron. Whatever your tasks might be, do make certain to enjoy God immensely through it all in light of the cross. Happy weekending, genial gents and gals!

Surprise revelry

2010-08-18T11:23:00.000-07:00

The LAbode sparkled with pink-hued glitz this weekend past in prompt preparation for covert Operation Roommate Midnight Birthday Surprise.The environs radiated with the roommate's most favored fancies, including a handcrafted birthday banner in the form of jaunty paper hearts
infused with tinges of her color of choice - pink,
and a chocolate bar themed spread consisting of the sweet treats by which she is most enamored, including luscious strawberries dunked in addictive Nutella,
homebaked dulce de leche brownie decadence,
her most preferred wine, moscato, paired with a non-alchy alternative, fizzy French berry lemonade,
delicate chocolate hazelnut wafers,
tasty dark chocodipped pretzel slims,
and the utmost epicurean necessity - Sprinkles' posh dark chocolate cupcakes,
all encompassed by a vibrant boyfriend-bequeathed pink floral bouquet
and whimsical servingware.
The surprisee's candid reaction ne'er fails to be the highlight of surprise shenanigans. Wouldn't you be in agreement?
Our hearts were gladdened to commemorate the first hour of her 23rd birthday
with her in congenial cheer and amiable affection.
Happiest of 23rd birthdays to you, dear roommate! I love you so!

Do ya ever feel

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like you've so much to divulge that you haven't an inkling where oh where to commence doing so?'Cause that's how I feel. Forgive my lack of substantial updates for out-of-town visitors are prioritizing my time of late. We dilly dallied the afternoontide along sea-combed shores beneath brilliant sunbeams that set our skin a-tingling with endorphins aplenty. 'Twas a day seeping with equal parts summery relaxation and chummy revelry. Hope you've all been indulging in a span of lovely leisure!

Sometimes you just kinda wanna

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shimmy shake it like a Polaroid picture.When's the last time you boogied down the town like no one is around?

Blissful homecoming

2010-08-07T12:36:00.000-07:00

Oh my, it has been a spell since my last post, due to a weeklong southern soiree and a subsequent 6 week undertaking that altered my life forevermore. Now time is tickity-tocking more languidly, encouraging me to breathe a tad more, and blog bushels more (so I hope you'll pop in more often than not)!Lovely ladies and gallant gents, I do hope you've been doing dandy. I cannot wait to vicariously check in on the awe-inspiring adventures and crafty encounters in which you've all been relishing. Have a loveliest of weekends!

Glimpses of the southern soiree

2010-06-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

in Atlanta are forthcoming, slow-paced as they might be, for I shall be immersed in a venture that shall be usurping the majority of my time and energy. Stay tuned, cheery chums!

I've an insatiable appetite

2010-06-18T08:39:00.000-07:00

for turf teeming with time-honored treasures, as evidenced by last week's flea market flit-by per usual below.'Tis a sordid shame the homey home cannot sustainthese vintage knick knacks in their entiretyalthough I shall candidly confessthat a premeditated meander to the flea marketne'er leaves me empty-handed.Cheers to a bloated apartmento and a bargain-exhausted coin purse.I've an inkling I might've forayed some vintage curios replete with Southern charm in gorgeous Georgia by now. Happy Friday, cheery chums. Stay tuned for next week's artillery of posts on Atlanta!

Travelogue Thursdays: the Texan staple

2010-06-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Goode Co., Houston, Texas, USA in April 2009.What could be more Texan than a heaping helpin' of Texas-made barbeque? So heavy (so I only had a smidgen), yet mighty tasty and smokey savory is this Southern staple, specifically when complemented with humongous outdoor rough-hewn patio seating and blaring Southern Dixie tunes. I hope I'll have sampled palatable Atlantan-idiosyncratic Southern fare by now!

Congradulatory

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whimsies, all wrapped, bundled, and spiffified to be bestowed.Oh, how I fancy perky packaging with time-honored prints and textures aplenty!

Meandering

2010-06-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

patches of unbashed wilderness is a traipse-worthy trip, particularly whence 'tis of the glee-inducting impromptu variety.
Here's to hoping I'll be chancing upon wondrous pockets of uncultivated magnificence in Atlanta by now!

Shimmying down south

2010-06-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

to the luscious land of prolific peach trees today!
Life has been a frazzling flurry of late, and it'll only intensify tenfold upon my return to La La Land. Here's to hoping a week of slower-paced old-fashioned Southern charm shall serve my sanity well. If you've any spiffy recommendations for must-sees and dos in Atlanta, do disclose - I'd be delighted to know! As I unabashedly adopt the Atlantan attitude for the following days, stay tuned for habitual near-daily posts!

I'm Irresistibly inclined

2010-06-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

towards composing whimsy-emanating baked goodie pouches and accompanying par avion letters -fitting farewell mementos, methinks. Happy Friday, genial gents and gals!

Travelogue Thursdays: that was Nice

2010-06-10T13:45:00.000-07:00

Nice, French Riviera, France in July 2008.
All I gathered by word of mouth was that Nice is a too-pricey-to-afford resort town in the French Riviera hounded by the yuppie elite as a frequent vacation getaway from biting and howling northern winters for its sun-graced beaches and mild Mediterranean climate. I envisioned Vegas-style tourist-catering extravagance, but with silken sands and humming waves within reach. I was pleasantly surprised by the irresistable loveliness of Old Nice, which impressed upon me an immaculate fusion of both Italy and France, with vibrant Italian honey yellows, salmon pinks, and muted peach colored edifices in a small-town setting, Nice was a charming and stress-relieving settlement that favors French elegance with Italian charm in an unbeatable package.

Everyone has their own talents -

2010-06-08T19:37:00.000-07:00

their personal niche, ya might say. Photography is not everyone's.We erupted in a stream of laughter after we asked a genial gent to snap a snapshot for us before attending A Chorus Line at the Pantages in Hollywood,which happened to be an awe-instilling anecdote of relentless dancers-turned-dreamers striving to establish their nook in this world, one jete at a time. 'Twas an expectedly spectacular musical extravaganza in utmost Broadway fanfare, but what pulled at our heartstrings most was the story's relatability. We exited the regally ostentatious theater convinced that A Chorus Line was a metaphor for our lives. We haven't the knack for pirouettes, arabesques, and dance-savviness, but dude, we, in our volatile and malleable early-20s stage, wanna hone our skills and pinpoint our vocational destination on this globe just as much as the colorful characters do. And as the days pitter patter by, we pray with hope that we're one step closer to ascertaining that calling. And that we come out of it with a treasury of tales to tell.

'Cause I mean, who isn't a sucker for brilliant stories? True, there're far too few gems to be found via the monstrosity we dub the mass media. Forget the fluff and junk on the tube these days that encourage us to postulate our society is perpetually doomed to Jersey Shore-esque absurdity. We're in dire need of titillating tales that convict and inspire. Luckily, you can help make that happen. Watch a dear friend's submission to Oprah's "Your Own Show" contest

and vote for her endeavor to make quality programming a reality. C'mon, who can resist engaging in philanthropy for the betterment of society? So, go on now, and don't be afraid to be aggressive - vote, vote, and vote some more for the one and only Media Maid, Janice Jann!

Grand-scale picnicking

2010-06-07T23:59:00.000-07:00

awash with promises of befriending banter by the gaily beckoning chalk-scribbled bannertranspired this weekend past amidst superbly satiating savories and celebratory confectionary delectations
that quelled hunger pangs of all patroning Angelenos,who, whence glimpsing diversionary gaming galore,halted present obligations to prattle and play.Can't wait for the subsequent one in July...do dilly-dally to drop by our next picnicking pleasantry!

Partake in picnicking pleasantry with us!

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We'd love to see all of you awesome Angelenos there this Sunday! Happy weekending, friendly folks!

Travelogue Thursdays: literary brilliance

2010-06-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

Powell's Books, Portland, Oregon, USA on May 2009.We submerged ourselves within the mind-boggling grandeur of the most insanely fabulous indie bookstore, a bona fide Portland institution flaunting 4 million new, used, rare, and outta print tomes, particularly an addicting artillery of vintage printed literary lovelies.

Though I've a penchant for globe-gallivanting,

2010-06-02T23:59:00.000-07:00

out-of-town undertakings were not vanquished this Memorial Day weekend past due to a fusion of budgeting woes and skyrocketing airfares. And so, I stayed home. But twiddle my thumbs at the LAbode I did not for home also happens to be my most favored cosmopolitan municipality - La La Land, a playplace to which I shall be perpetually partial,whose sundry pockets are each idiosyncratically alluring,from Downtown LA's urban pioneer componentsthat bespeak a zestymulticultural melting pot particularly via epicurean tidbits at an Angeleno institution,whose entrancing Europeanesque environs entailed a glorious parade of a much-hankered for delectable edible - macarons oozing with schmancy ingredients that I felt irresponsibly compelled to aquire in batchloads.Miracle Mile was a snazzified sector selected to sojourn at LACMA's Urban Light Sculpture that warranted dandy dilly dallying beneath dancing sunbeams.Prancing about with the loveliest loved ones in the City of Angels ne'er fails the weekend palate.

We picnicked

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beneath summer-implicative sun-blazing brilliance,along expansive mountainous-backdropped knolls,and amongst the regal presence of prim and proud peacocks.Oh, 'twas giddy fun to commemorate a lovely chum's birthday in such a way!

Awaiting

2010-05-28T12:08:00.000-07:00

an elongated weekend with the dearest of chummies. It shall be a rollicking refreshing one.How might you tarry away your long weekend? Happy Memorial Day weekend, guys and dolls!

Travelogue Thursdays: winery finery

2010-05-27T10:17:00.000-07:00

Robert Mondavi Winery, Napa Valley, California, USA on November 2008.Not only did we sip and swirl velvety winery finery at this esteemed establishment, but we had a refined rendezvous through the heart-stoppingly verdant vineyards, too!

The singing sensation

2010-05-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

We had a perpetually grin-plastered Gleekend.Nab the worthy scoop here!

Surprise partea joyousness

2010-05-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

Behold what crystallizes whence a couple of us put our noggins together to scheme into existence a surprise bridal tea party in an otherwise sterile joy-usurping corporate conference room.We envisioned an all-encompassing garden style galaaccentuating whimsical dashes of yore amidst contemporary vivacity.Teatimeliness is a charming formalized affairduring which we unleash our most eye-pleasing chinato situate amongst blossoming sunshine-hued rosesin glass milk bottle vases circa the 1940sin honor of a wedding extravaganza to manifest in less than a month's time.Tea party fare satiated all hunger pangs in excessive plentitude,consisting of handcrafted cranberry scones,fresh-baked sugar cookies,flora-cut pats o'butter,interminable trays of delicate tea sandwiches,freshly diced fruit platters,revamped petit fours,gleaming polished servingware,polychrome toothpicking gadgetry,and a dizzying display of epicurean sweetness that meshed harmoniously for a wonderland soiree of grand-scale proportionsto commemorate commitment to lovely love. Happy happy impending wedding to you both, Grace & Conrad!

Teatimeliness

2010-05-21T15:27:00.000-07:00

We threw a grand-scale tea party of the most splendid sort, which I shall unveil in due time. Happy Friday, cheery chums!

Fanciful featurette

2010-05-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

Jeepers, mosey on over to Lola's Girl today 'cause the ever lovely Jozen spotlit my homey home to commence her weekly "Home Sweet Home" series!'Tis an indubitable honor to be featured on her awe-inspiring blog. Thanks a bunch, Jozen! If you happen to be popping in from Lola's Girl, the warmest of smile-laced greetings to ya. I'm so very glad you've stopped by!

Blondie bombshells

2010-05-19T11:26:00.000-07:00

Perhaps I'm part of the minority, but I fancy the contrasted vanilla counterpart to fudgy chocolatey brownies. Blondies are irresistibly palatable - a moist cakey bar version of white chocolate macadamia nut cookies sans the macadamia nuts (but only 'cause I realized my pantry was plumb out of the delicate, buttery-rich nuts).'Tis a feast for the tastebuds whence a warm and gooey blondie is topped with a hefty dollop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle or few of homemade dulce de leche. Oh my, oh my. Be still, my heart!Which do you prefer: brownies or blondies? Regardless of your inclination, give these blondie bombshells a chance. Your sweet tooth shan't be disappointed!

Ingredients (makes 20 squares):
2 3/4 c all purpose flour
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2/3 c butter
1 lb. brown sugar
3 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
11.5 oz. white chocolate chips

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl; set aside.
3. Stir brown sugar into softened butter in another bowl. Add eggs one at a time, stirring well after each egg. Add vanilla and white chocolate chips. Mix well. Add dry flour mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Grease a 13 x 9 pan. Spread batter evenly into dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until top is golden brown.
5. Cool before cutting into 20 squares. Serve warm with vanilla bean ice cream and dulce de leche!

Subsequent pit stop

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An uncultivated wildflora knoll upon which to take a cursory refuge, please!

La aVentura magnifica

2010-05-17T12:19:00.000-07:00

We trekked northbound up to surfing hamlet Ventura,a picturesque municipality dotted with charming pockets of must-sees, through which we jovially gallivanted for a past due roommate reunioninzing rendezvous,befriending feral flora forestry,gawking at stately architecture,scoping out trinkets of yore and nostalgia-ridden treats of then,grubbing on exceedingly excellent burrito masterpieces at a local V-town institution,and of course, vagabonding down to the wind-ravaged coastline by which we were admittingly entranced.The college era roommates shall ever monopolize a special cranny in my corazón. I mean, look at them. How could they not?

High hopes

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to carry out some crafting this impending weekend.What might your weekend intentions be? Happy Friday, cheery chums!

Travelogue Thursdays: gondoladventuring

2010-05-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

Canal Grande (Grand Canal), Venice, Italy on July 2008.My head swam when observing the stellar moving picture of the Canalazzo’s 14th to 18th century architectural finery belonging to Venice’s old merchant elite whilst sprawling on an sleek, ornately emblazoned gondola, then identified as the merchant’s family-crested limousine. 'Twas a most chic and leisurely means of ingesting the magnificence of Venezia, especially along the rippling sun-warmed waters of the Canal Grande.

Memorializing mommadom

2010-05-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend prior was such blessed fun with familial conviviality in commemorating the magnificent mommas in our lives, decadent babycakes duly included.I love my momma from the manifold depths of my heart! Hope you all reveled in a marvelous Mother's Day weekend!

A tasty teeny treat how-to

2010-05-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

Mosey on over to Lola's Girl today 'cause I'm guest blogging a tasty teeny treat how-toreplete with a smattering of my most favored whimsies: wee cookies, fabric scraps, textured paper, and vibrant thread. If you're popping in from Lola's Girl, welcome!!! I'm utterly delighted you've tarried time to drop by!

Radiant sun rays

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waltz and whirl upon our wondrous world.I just can't help but to throw my head back and embrace their warm caress on my face. Do soak in the sun-kissed sumptuousness this weekend. Happy Friday, guys and dolls!

Travelogue Thursdays: Parisian pleasantry

2010-05-06T10:42:00.000-07:00

Outside a café in Montmarte, Paris, France in June 2008.There's such breath-stealing whimsy in witnessing Parisians relish one another's company at a local brasserie whilst a middle-aged French woman peers inquisitively out from an upstairs window in this bohemian borough in the 18th arrondissement as the sun sets on the City of Lights.

Playing in the streets

2010-05-05T16:45:00.000-07:00

Skedaddling through thoroughfares in sky-high heelsis an exceedingly exhilirating pastime. As long as it doesn't prolong too long, of course. Hope you've been tarrying time to prattle and play!

Tickity tock

2010-05-04T11:46:00.000-07:00

Time is flitting into oblivion whilst the to-do list expands exponentially. I am succumbing to anxiety more often than I'd prefer, but I thank the Lord He has it all planned out for good to the minute, to the day, to the week, to the month, to the year, for my ephemeral life's entirety.

Beauty abounds all around,

2010-04-30T10:02:00.001-07:00

so I do hope you encounter heaps of it in manifold forms this weekend. Happy Friday, convivial comrades!

Travelogue Thursdays: the modern(isme) masterpiece

2010-04-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain in July 2008.The entrancing cosmopolitan hotspot is renowned for housing a smattering of Antoni Gaudi structural Modernisme (Catalan Art Nouveau) masterpieces, and though it has yet to be completed, this utterly mind-boggling, eye-popping castle-reminiscent church is the pinnacle of Gaudi's architectural talent. The most arresting and elegant structure from afar is akin to a colossal sand castle that boasts insanely detailed facades that my camera captured insufficiently up close, so if ever you step foot into Barcelona soil, do make a worthwhile sojourn to the Sagrada Família. But partake in some tasty tapas delicacies beforehand, 'cause you'll be gawking at the fantastical edifice for a while.

Nuts about Nutella

2010-04-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

Is there a lad or lady in the land who doesn't fancy Nutella?'Cause golly molly, I absolutely adore the addicting hazelnut spread on just about anything, but whence 'tis incorporated into a homecrafted cookie - oh my. I envisioned a shortbread/sugar cookie-esque concoction as the base and a generous dollop of Nutella as the crowning touch. They're easy peasy to contrive and they'll vanish in a flash!

Ingredients (makes about 24 small cookies):
1 1/3 c all purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 stick unsalted butter
3/4 c sugar
1 egg
1/4 c Nutella

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Sift together flour, baking powder and salt in a large bowl. set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar in the bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy - about 3 minutes. Mix in the egg. Reduce speed to low and gradually mix in flour mixture.
4. Shape dough into 24 1-inch balls. Space 2 1/2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Make an indentation with your thumb in the middle of each ball.
5. Bake cookies until edges are golden, 8-9 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely.
6. Put Nutella into a frosting tube or a plastic sandwich bag with a corner tip cut open. Squeeze a dollop of Nutella into the center indentation of each cookie.

We made haste

2010-04-27T09:49:00.000-07:00

to take thorough advantage of bountiful sunbeams and balmy breezesto flop upon beckoning meadows in top-notch company. And, of course, cheery cherry red patent t-strap Mary Janes added a chipper dash to the already splendid day.

Bits and pieces

2010-04-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

of impromptu crafting transpired o'er the weekend, upon which I shall elaborate in a spiffy jiffy.Vibrant whimsy-emanating fabric scraps, for which I've a predilection, were duly incorporated. Hope your weekend was just marvelous!

Finally Friday

2010-04-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

Jeepers, I'm so glad weekends exist. Though 'tis been a smidgen sprinkly in my neck of woods, I am all too ready to play! That is, call on dear friends who just added a winsome wee one to the family, attend an annual book festival of tremendous grandeur, boisterously huzzah a birthday, and hopefully squeeze in a crafting interlude, too. Happy Friday, friendly folks!

Travelogue Thursdays: our homey globe

2010-04-22T10:20:00.000-07:00

I'm all ajitter with anticipation to herald in a new series today: Travelogue Thursdays! I've an unequivocal penchant for globe-gallivanting, so every Thursday, I shall unveil a snapshot of a lovely locale I'm blessed to have been able to sojourn. And since today is Earth Day, 'tis fitting to post some of the most majestic creations I've ever encountered:

Coast Redwoods on Avenue of the Giants, Weott, California, USA in May 2008.The ancient redwood groves were a veritably heart-stopping sight to behold as I gazed up at the towering trunks and condensed blanket of branches in the imperial stillness far removed from the hubbub of modern civilization. They impress upon me of how naturally ravishing our homey globe is, which is a mere shadow of how awesome and merciful God is as Creator and Sustainer, and how privileged we are to be the caretakers of such magnificence.

What little steps are you taking to greenify? I'm quite partial towards stuffing snacks in old jars to munch on the go rather than in plastic sandwich baggies -not only is it loads more practical and earth-friendly, but methinks 'tis bushels cuter, too! Happy Earth Day!!!

I'm always in the most jovial of spirits

2010-04-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

when I'm availed the fortuity to frequent the flea.You know you're deemed a faithful patronwhence an affable vendor remarks in his dashing French accent,"Why, hi! You're early this time!"Oh my!But 'twas a jackpot juncture per usual,as I exuberantly lugged away a score of time-honored treasuresto further spiffify the homey home (perhaps to be unveiled in a forthcoming post)! What vintage knick knacks do you scour for at your local flea market?

Doggone good-ies

2010-04-20T10:32:00.000-07:00

I've a colossal sweet tooth, so 'tis a no-brainer to oft succumb to a bout of baking. This weekend past was no different. Except this time I dabbled in baking for nonhuman creatures. Specifically, I endeavored to craft homemade dog biscuits, which resulted in some doggone good-ies!I modified a recipe with ingredients already handy in my cookery stash:whole wheat flour, all natural peanut butter, skim milk, and baking powder (I stumbled upon alternative dog biscuit recipes that called for canola oil, cornmeal, and the likes of psuedo pooch poison, so I'm pleased to have chanced upon a healthified and dog-esteemed option).Homemade treats fare better whence settled in handcrafted packaging - a humble brown paper bag sewn shut and tied with a jaunty feedsack repro fabric bow atop a scrawled manila tag (Yep, the pooch's name is Biscuit!).Treat your canine chums to some homemade biscuits, and rest knowing they're fashioned from winsomely wholesome ingredients. Of course, they're people-friendly, but I must confess that after tentatively sampling a bite (after all, they're all-natural!), I'm so very thankful I'm a human speciman who can indulge in sugar-injected confections. Like cupcakes. Nevertheless, playful pooches shall be hankering for more of these doggone good-ies!

Ingredients (makes about 20 biscuits):
1 c whole-wheat flour
1/2 tbsp baking powder
1/2 c natural peanut butter
1/2 c skim milk

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Sift flour and baking powder into a bowl. In another bowl, mix peanut butter and milk. Add wet mixture to dry, and mix well.
3. Turn out dough on a lightly floured surface and knead. Roll out to 1/4-inch thick and cut out shapes with different shaped cookie cutters (I used a round cutter and subsequently made a pawprint on each cookie by making an indentation towards the bottom with a spoon, and pressing the dough with the round edge of the rolling pin to create 4 arching thumbprints over it).
4. Place on a greased baking sheet and bake 18 minutes or until lightly brown. Cool on a rack then store up to 1 week in an airtight container.

'Twas a most pleasant weekend

2010-04-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

with hefty dosages of some of my most preferred pastimes, including multigrain waffles faintly drizzled with farmer's market orange blossom honey and a spot of fragrant tea for breakfast.'Tis a veritable treat 'cause I don't customarily allocate time to loll about for breakfast during the helter-skelter flurry of the week. And so, I'm curious - what's your most favored breakfast?

Swashbuckling weekend objective

2010-04-16T11:59:00.001-07:00

First of all, you might've perceived that I've revamped this little blog just a tad. Do divulge your thoughts! I've also refurbished my personal monoblog, Sonshiny Days, so frolic over to have a look-see, if you please.

So 'tis been a spell since I've bicycled to and froon my canary and burgundy pinstriped vintage cruiser hailed from one of my most favored historical eras, the fanciful 40s.I do hope springtime-obligatory sunbeams accompany me for some diversionary bicyclovin', and you for your weekend objectives! Happy Friday, guys and dolls! What might your weekend plans be?

Tiramisuch tastiness

2010-04-15T15:22:00.000-07:00

Contriving homecrafted tiramisu means I have scores more servings stored in the icebox to amply appease imminent hankerings for the effortlessly ethereal yet delectably decadent multi-layered Italian masterpiece.I adapted the recipe from here, particularly, sprinkling into the concoction bushels more biscotti, 'cause really, 'tis too divine not to! My dinner party patrons o'er the weekend concurred 'twas a tummy-titillating treat. And 'twas quite a facile feat! Happy indulging in tiramisuch tastiness:

Ingredients (serves 12):
8 large eggs, separated
16 oz. mascarpone
6 oz. small almond biscotti
3 c brewed espresso, cooled
1/3 c Kahlua
42 ladyfingers
1 c heavy cream
Ghirardelli milk chocolate, for garnish
1 c sugar
2 tbsp powdered sugar

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yolks and mascarpone until smooth. Add 1 c sugar; whisk until dissolved. Set aside.
2. Process biscotti into coarse crumbs. Fold biscotti into mascarpone mixture. Set aside.
3. Beat egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Fold egg whites into mascarpone mixture. Set aside.
4. Combine espresso and liqueur in a pan. Quickly dip half the Ladyfingers individually into the pan, and place in the bottom of a 13-by-9-inch baking dish; fit cozily to line. Evenly spread half the mascarpone mixture over Ladyfingers; repeat layers.
5. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread whipped cream evenly over tiramisu; garnish with grated chocolate.
6. Chill overnight before serving.

A most pleasant springtime perk

2010-04-14T15:43:00.000-07:00

is donning frothy frocks and vivid hued shoes in which to prance and play beneath iridescent sunbeams.Wouldn't you agree?

Wedded bliss

2010-04-12T13:25:00.000-07:00

transpired in an aura of perfectly peachy keenness this Saturday past for Linda and John's merry matrimony.'Twas an aesthetically-enthralling whimsical wedding saturated with handmade flair thanks to Ruby's crafty creativity,from vintage feedsack bunting yardage rippling vivaciously against a vibrant cerulean skyscape,to variegated wildflora arrangements bursting effervescently from mason jarsto beguiling raw-edged burlap table runners,all of which complemented charming turn-of-the-century cotton candy and popcorn contraptions to quell munchie pangs,a guestbook-esque portrait for guests to leave their red balloon-reminiscent mark via autographed thumbprints,
and a fabulous 400-person feast supplemented by rounds of apprehended photograph-taking amongst us all,along with capturing cherished vignettes of the beautiful bride and dashing groom,group pictures with the lovely lady of the hour,and solo snapshots, too.A plethora of pictures ne'er fail to effectuate whence you embed many a blogger at the same shindig,even though there is a legitimately pro photographer roaming the gala grounds,and a quirky photo booth for immortalized instantaneous silliness.Cheers and CONGRATULATIONS to you, Linda and John!!! I'm beyond elated for you both as you embark on this happily ever after in Christ!

A wondrous weekend awaits,

2010-04-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

one exemplified by time with the ones I love to love, consummation of lovely love, lovable life opportunities, and thangs I lovingly love to undertake,all of which are good and perfect gifts from God, whose abounding grace conveys His utmost loving-kindness o'er all and in all, 'cause ultimately, God is love. Happy Friday, lovely laddies and ladies!

Possibilities aplenty

2010-04-08T09:45:00.000-07:00

for this charming bundle o' prime-picked produce at hand.Methinks they kinda look too lovely to eat, lounging snugly in a vintage bowl and all. What would you conjure up with some fresh-grown beets, turnips, and other veggies of the earthy variety?

Oh, and I'm aware I'm dawdling on the recipes, and I apologize. I shall disclose in a spiffy jiffy as 'tis a tad amok in my neck of woods. Thanks a bunch for the sweet comments!

It'd be grand

2010-04-06T10:53:00.000-07:00

to gallivant kelly green grassinessright about now, don'tcha think?

Practicing hospitality

2010-04-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

on a frequent basis happifies my heart, not only because convivial comrades convene in the homey home for cheery times, but also 'cause I get to whip up some home cookery, like cheesy chicken enchiladas, a vibrant carne asada ensalada palette,healthified 5-layer dip to gussy up blue and white tortilla chips, and decadent indulgence dulce de leche espresso syrup-injected babycakes.Recipes to come, if ever you're intrigued.

Sunbeamy weekend

2010-03-29T15:49:00.000-07:00

'Twas a marvelous one, indeed.Hope yours was just as, if not more, lovely!

Idyllic island migration

2010-03-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

In observance of an abridged spring respite, we made a dashing day getaway tohistorically alluring Balboa Island,home of the eclectic storefront-lined Cape Cod-esque Marine Avenue bespeckled with emblematic frozen chocotreat-dipped banana emporiumsalong a rolling waterfront by which to luxuriously loll before boarding the clanging and chugging ferry to traipse the rinkydink pier,which is enchantingly circumscribed by a seascape of the most spectacular sort,turn-of-the-century carnival diversions,stoically territorial pelican kings,and the aboriginal vista-privileged Ruby's,where we shooby dooby doo'ed for an expedited bite on the rooftop patioamid salty gales and ocean swells.'Twas a most blessed sonshiny day with a most lovely gal pal.

Time-honored establishments

2010-03-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

always strike my fancy, particularly chancing upon charm-ridden old-school 50s dinersreplete with credible classic burger-centric fare,a chocolate milkshake that stole my heart, kitschy themed decor,and rollicking rockabilly jingles permeating the environs.

An old-timer's weekend

2010-03-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

comprised largely of a jackpot jaunt to the flea marketwhere treasured trinkets of yore meandered their way into our elated possession with endearing kiddos in tow and antique-inclined chummies.

Melty magnificence

2010-03-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

Though I'm keen on both cooking and baking, I must divulge that I'm more partial to baking, not only 'cause I've a colossal sweet tooth, but 'tis quite mind-boggling to synthesize a measured hodgepodge of ingredients into a drippity jumble, pop it in the oven, and have it emerge absolutely aesthetically-pleasing. Don'tcha agree?This Sunday prior's homebaked concoction: fudgy molten chococake generously dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by a dollop of vanilla bean ice creamery. Oh, melty magnificence.

In tribute of two about to become one,

2010-03-15T16:20:00.000-07:00

we powwowed this sunbeam-prolific Saturday past for a bliss-brimming bridal showerfor the blessed bride-to-be, Linda.Though the nuptial affair center staged the bride, we felt like we'd nabbed starring roles ourselves, for we were opportuned the fortuity to gaily gallivant in a garden of homegrown grandeuradorned with antiqued furnishingsand whimsically interlaced with yards upon yards of handcrafted fabric floral puff streamerswhilst partaking in a magnificently contrived feast,bubbly libations,and, of course, a plethora o' pastries, including cinnamon sugar doused churros,zestily ethereal lemon bars,and too-charming-to-consume red velvet cupcakes residing within bitty jars,all of which we wholly relishedamongst a tippity top-notch ensemble of gal pals before acceding to a merry myriad of diversions,specifically, clobbering into smithereens a handcrafted vintage novel piñata whose papier-mâché shroud proved to be a near impenetrable doozyattempt as mightily as all might to puncture it.But disintegrated it did into a vibrant candied rainfall for our excavatingtill gift-opening through the hefty heap of presents ensued,to which I added a fanciful parcel. A most marvelous job to the Kim sisters
and crafteriffic Ruby for scheming and executing the smashing shindig!!!Congratulations, Linda!!! I'm beyond thrilled for you and John. So happy for you!!! Love ya!

The hazelnut wonder

2010-03-11T01:13:00.000-08:00

dubbed Nutella pretty much takes the cake for the foremost frosting to garnish homecrafted cupcakes.To Italian genius Ferrero who concocted the epicurean sweet treat: my tastebuds thank you wholeheartedly.

Propitious provision

2010-03-09T14:25:00.000-08:00

Spasmodic rain pellets thwarted us and other wayfaring Angelenos not from nimbly navigating towards where stately merchants hawk their organic farm-fresh cream of the crop in droves.D'you know what ensues whence there exists a mind-boggling surfeit of intrigue-inducing edibles to procure for the week's groceries?
I, in a dizzying bout on indecisiveness, end up empty tote bagged.But lo and behold, I was surprised this Sunday past with a bountiful bushel of organic broccoli rabe harvested from a lovely friend's flourishing garden of edibly healthified greenery. And let me tell ya, 'tis tasty to the maximus sauteed with onion slivers and garlic.Thanks a bunch, Ruby & Ben!

Feature steeped in sweetness

2010-03-05T07:45:00.000-08:00

Bushels of thanks to all you laddies and ladies who tarried time to take a pseudo promenade through the LAbode this week via Monday’s post! Hark, thanks be to Lita from Downtown Girl Designs who caught wind of it and subsequently spotlit my homey home on her lovely blog. What an absolute honor. Thank you, Lita, for being so sweet and for a feature steeped in sweetness!Happy Friday, all! Be sure to mosey over to Downtown Girl Designs to gander at all the craftiness she has up her sleeves and peep at her shop for “handmade lovelies” that shall steal your heart.

The flighty messenger

2010-03-04T10:41:00.000-08:00

I'm rather keen on the concept of kite mail messengers (stemmed from my crafting a Play Pouch based on the idea the year prior), and what lovelier method to send off a birthday package to a dear friend who entertains an affinity for kites?Crafting packaging is a dandy diversion, as this parcel flits and flutters from the City of Angelsto the Big Apple where the chummy pal currently resides.I'm enamored by, and so utilize a fusion of manila envelopes, kraft paper, vintage graphics, baker's twine, sewn sheared apple shaped fabric, aged linen, inky stamps, and die-cut tags to fabricate an aesthetically pleasing vintage-inspired package.Gotta insert a sewn doily card swamped with scribbling, too.Thanks to this flighty messenger, the birthday parcel shall arrive in the post in a spiffy jiffy!

The homey home

2010-03-01T23:59:00.000-08:00

Why, how utterly peachy of you to pop into this monoblog of mine this first Monday of March month, particularly 'cause I'd love to vicariously welcome you to the LAbode today. I've had a bona fide blast gratifying an interior decorating fixation to spiffify its nooks and crannies with all my proclivities so the homey home is an idiosyncratic amalgamation of flea market finds and handcrafted snazziness. "You're so lucky your roommate lets you decorate however you want," everyone says. I really am blessed with a most marvelous roommate!

Lettuce commence the titillating tour with a jolly jaunt through the living room, wholly lovely for livingwith a handsewn vintage feedsack fabric pennant banner whimsically strung atopcharmingly rustified 1960s-era lawn chairs embellished with handcrafted throw pillows,a blemished French turquoise metal drawer upon which to nestle the telly, augmented by a vintage suitcase triadand an aged locker basket brimming with literary brilliance.A wooden-armed, vintage feedsack pillowed futon oft accommodates guests, so please do feel free to sojourn. We'd absolutely love to have ya.Recycled burlap sacks are archetypal tablecloths upon which dainty teacups and antiquated soda pop bottle vases situate,and a cheery cherry red metal tray table from the nifty fifties serves as a coffee table.The entryway beholds a vintage 1930s vanity-turned-welcome vignettewith an old-school French schoolroom chalkboard, a mason jar chock-full of golden-hued pencils,dog-eared National Geographic magazines, a pinstriped hatbox, rustified skeleton keys, and packaged Italian lozenges.The dining area flaunts a taupe-toned curved legged table enveloped by a smattering of 1940s soda shoppe chairs, with a panorama of a pictorial map of Paris (as showcased in this previous post).The cozy cookeryexhibits a laundry line of time-honored knick knacks above the sink,an aged wire egg-collecting basket for fruit compiling, and teabag-stuffed European canisters alongside recipe tomes.A slender 40s milk bottle of faux flora adds a dapper dash to typewriter-script numbered spice jars,though spices also occupy the vintage metal toy Frigidaire.Alternate modes of transportation also dwell the apartmento. The roommate and I have a bad case of bicyclove.And my most favored niche in the LAbode - my crafting cranny.Unequivocally distinct from the then-playground, but I'm mightily fond of it, nevertheless.Vintage curios and handcrafted oddities abound,and the fabric collection amasses.A vintage wooden soda bottle crate is revamped into a showcase for teeny peculiarities.Tiered stands are primed for baked goodies and lovely goods.Decades-old mason jars are the first-rate notion organizers.Have you the hankering that I fancy wooden clothespinned mementos and Sheer Whimsy creations?Entertainingware is stocked for whence the occasion arises.Case in point: this Saturday past, whence the roommate and I concurred 'twas high time to beckon the loveliest fellows and dolls in our lives to swing by for a housewarmingala to remember.A homespun spread of delectable edibles headlining pesto penne in pink sauce, mac n' cheesiness, savory spam musubi, spinach salad with d'anjou pear and candied pecans in cranberry-gorgonzola-walnut vinaigrette,petite tea sandwiches,bacon cream cheese puff pastry bites, crumbly cornbread,and a decadent dessert display of the homecrafted nature including strawberry cheesecake cupcakes, nutella cupcakes, strawberry mascarpone babycakes,peanut butter cupcakes,and red velvet cupcakes.To quench the thirst was a glass bottled fizzy beverage service and a Hungarian 1920s washtub awash in vinoto efficiently enable scores of top-notch toasting. Cheers, m'dears!Thank you so very much to eerbody who traversed from near and far in the raindrippity droplets to drop by and endearingly warm our house and our hearts up. They're both most toasty now. The roommate and I adored having you all and hope y'all had a swell time. Do pay us a visit again, anytime, for we fancy practicing hospitality!

Frivolous flea frenzy

2010-02-24T12:48:00.000-08:00

No dandier way to dally away a placid sun-baked afternoontidethan to sift and scour for charm-oozing time-honored knick knacksto further spiff up the LAbode.

Handcrafting sessions are lovelier together

2010-02-17T17:49:00.000-08:00

I fancy lolling about in the LAbode on resplendent weekend morns, particularly whence a chummy gal pal pops in to mollify a crafting itch.'Tis a legit blessing to have chanced upon an LAbode with a nifty nook primed for crafty endeavors as I was a tad disheartened at the formidable prospect of bidding adieu to my playground. More snapshots of the new homey home coming to a post near you.Byproducts of a handmade session: raw-edged vintage button topped fabric florato doll up the dear friend's 'doand her arm, inspired by the loveliest and craftiest mama ever.

Evocatively European

2010-02-11T11:45:00.000-08:00

I've still yet to capture snapshots of the new LAbode's entirety, but behold, a lackadaisical glimpse at one of my most favored pieces: a crinkled pictorial plan of Paris. Dolled it up reminiscent of a then-classroom map by sewing on a felt top border and hung up with brown and white baker's twine. Finished it off by attaching brown kraft string to dangle from the bottom with a bow-tied vintage skeleton key.Whensoever mine eyes fall upon it, my memory stirs of the perfectly peachy Parisian stopover during the EuropEpic those many moons ago.Now I've the hankering for some macarons. Preferably pistachio-flavored.

Our stories

2010-02-09T10:03:00.000-08:00

'Tis been lovely to be able to craft a bit of late. I haven't whipped up bitty notebooks since Christmastide, so for a lovely chum's birthday last week, a handmade notebook entitled "Our stories of your story" materialized, featuring a vintage linen cover sewn onto recycled cardstock liningwith a hand-stamped title alongside a cheery fabric heart.The inside front cover encases a bounteous bulk of graph paper pagesand a sewn mini calendar with her birthdate subtly highlighted adjacent to a cross cutout to symbolize the gift of another year of life granted by He who is the giver of all good gifts.Compiled upon the graph paper surfaces are our stories of her story (of how He has used her friendship with us for good),finished off by a superimposed teeny manila envelopewith a salutation penciled within. If only there were more hours in the day to allocate to crafting...it'd be grand to resurrect the shop!

Saturday morn at the farm

2010-01-25T12:51:00.000-08:00

or as proximate to the farm as the City of Angels can get,manifested in the Santa Monica Farmers Market, a regional marketplace adorned with national presence mere blocks from the undulating shoreline.'Twas a titillating thrill for the senses to ramble the bustling, crop-bountiful aisles to procure a hodgepodge of fresh fare directly from prattling growers who were ever eager to impart produce-centric tales supplemented with savory samples aplenty.
Such a lovely morningtide.

Twenty-ten

2010-01-11T12:43:00.000-08:00

Cheers to the year anew! We dilly dallied along the sun-radiant San Diegan shoreline.I do hope 2010 has been swell for you thus far!

Buzzmusement

2009-12-28T12:11:00.000-08:00

A friendly chap shares his annual day of birth with the eve of Christmas, which stemmed a carnival-themed carousalentitled "Birthday Buzzmusement"in honor of the one from whose name 'tis derived. Party scheming and executing always proves to me to be a titillating thrill.A bounteous spread of fresh fair fare gratified hunger pangs and nostalgia-radiating carnival games galore reminiscent of Buzz's gamemaster proclivities diverted all attendees.The most notorious amusement was indubitably the art of pie chuckingat a good-natured birthday celebrant target who got massacred by foamy mounds of whipped cream againand again.Peachy keen times.

A very merry Christmas

2009-12-25T16:41:00.000-08:00

to you all, guys and dolls!Beneath the tried-and-true layers of extensive feasting, time-spending, and gift-giving is the resplendent heartbeat of Christmastide - the momentous commemoration of Jesus Christ's birth, God's unparalleled gift to us. 'Tis one of eternal proportions that transforms lives forevermore.

Happy birthday, Jesus Christ! I do hope we all remember the reason for the season, but nevertheless, may you and yours have the loveliest of times this jolly holiday!

Handmade notes & such

2009-12-22T09:56:00.000-08:00

Christmastide gifting has befallen us, and to herald in the habitual handmade and homemade holiday, I crafted for lovely chums bitty notebooks to document their fine thoughts and knack for literary prowess. Per my partiality to meld together things practical with thorough injections of elements whimsical (e.g. Play Pouches, Laptop Jackets, and Gadget Garb), the Notes & Such series is born.The outer cover hails from recycled brown cardstock,with "notes & such" hand-stamped onto vintage feedsack fabric and sewn between the front and inside covers.The blue-hued vintage composition cover within features a bevy of detailed fancies,including arbitrarily stamped pages,a teeny library pocket of "heartfelt" fabric,and a tag-stuffed miniature manila pouch.Within the faded yellowed pages are newsprint dividers,an old-fashioned priority-stamped telephone memorandumanchored into place by a musical note paperclip.The inside back cover accents time-honored advertisement graphicsand a delicate doily bookmark to eradicate any possibility of losing one's place in the amassing collection of jotted miscellany.'Tis all secured by variegated wraparound baker's twine,spiffily tied up with raw strips of fabric-turned-ribbon,and ready for very merry distributing!Notes & Such bitty notebooks shall be available in the shop once 'tis up and running again after the year anew.

Oodles of snickerdoodles

2009-12-21T09:49:00.000-08:00

for a merry Christmas!In accordance with my preference to execute a homemade & handmade holiday, I tarried in a flurry this Saturday past per instilled tradition baking and packaging these cinnamon sugar tasties to deliver unto lovelies yesterday and throughout this week.The batches were copiously whipped from 2 economy-sized packages of flour, 1 hefty bushel of sugar, too many sticks of butter, and buckets of cinnamon, amongst other staple ingredients, to yield more than 250 wee parcels of irresistibly-textured snickerdoodles embellished with recycled brown paper, vintage fabric, and a hand-scrawled memo on aged notebook paper, all sewn niftily shut.Hope you laddies and ladies had a cheery Christmas-prepping weekend. Stay tuned for the handmade part of my holiday!

Bagged flair

2009-12-17T11:31:00.000-08:00

Friendly folks, do you recollect Vim Trousseau’s glam-ridden swankified handbags I mentioned in my post about Unique LA’s winter ’09 showcase? Not only are they confoundingly fabulous, but the talented designer, Jennifer Elizabeth, is a parcel of sweetness and awesomeness herself. I got to meet her via her lovely cousin Tiersa, who happens to be my co-worker chummy, and even had the blissful opportunity to photograph some product shots earlier this year at Vim Trousseau’s line’s inception. ‘Twas such privileged fun, and now the snapshots are featured on Vim Trousseau’s blog here!Many thanks for the splendid spread, Jennifer! My shots do her eye-catching purses no justice, for her signature “…mini-tote features bold images, colorful trim and is adorned with fashionable jewelry…” that “…cater[s] to your individuality.” So waste not another second, and visit Vim Trousseau to snag a “Glossy Queen” original!

Preparatory prerequisites

2009-12-15T09:34:00.000-08:00

Bustled in the kitchen yesternight to accommodate impending baking aplenty in the forthcoming days till Christmas' eve. Now the fridge is stuffed with home-concocted primary rounds of freshly whipped frosting, mounds of cookie dough, and the like all ready to be baked, packaged, and delivered. Cheers to the attempt at not baking for the masses last minute in a frazzled flurry reminiscent of years past.

Flea flit-by

2009-12-09T10:24:00.000-08:00

for a treasure trove of time-honored knick-knacks for my pickin'!I shall ne'er tire of flea marketing for vintage curios of unparalleled character.

Irresistibly unique

2009-12-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

Unique LA is consistently hearkened an event of sweeping grandeur for 'tis the biggest craft show in the vicinity,where crafters and patrons alike flock for the showcase of a wide breadth of handcrafted goodies.I'm nuts about the handmade lifestyle, and at Unique LA, the utmost talent and creativity intermingle into a showstopping indie marketplace that is unequivocally a tad more extraordinary whence friendly folks are found flaunting their wares, including Vim Trousseauand oh, hello friend, amongst others.Attending craft shows always make me sorely miss crafting as my shop has been blatantly vacant for well o'er a year due to life's hustle and bustle of late, but hark! Sheer Whimsy shall be opening up once more with the forthcoming commencement of the new year!

To herald in nippier weather

2009-12-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

that finally seems to be permeating the days on a steady note (as steadfast as can be in perennial sunshine-graced Southern California), a nifty mishmash of crocheting and knitting shall commence.Happy happy weekend, guys and dolls! Might you be participating in yarnwork projects, too? Do feel free to share ideas of the brilliant sort!

'Twas a thankful time

2009-12-03T14:32:00.000-08:00

with family and those like family o'er Thanksgiving as we reveled in the plethora of undeserved blessings graciously granted by the Savior to whom I'm ever grateful.I do hope yours was just as loverly. Jeepers, now 'tis high time for Christmastide notions to fill the air!

Won'tcha

2009-11-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

jitterbug with me sometime?I'm rather keen on Charleston-ing, too.Let's just boogie down, ballroom-style!

Tried-and-true thrills

2009-11-23T10:04:00.000-08:00

I can ne'er resist a hearty expedition to the flea market to oblige a preferred pastime of scouring for legacy-abundant vintage oddities to utilize for the upcoming project (to be unveiled in a couple of moons),especially whence the jaunt is capped by an impromptu haute cupcake stopover.'Twas such a swell afternoon.

Candied

2009-11-20T12:17:00.001-08:00

apples are so wondrously tasty to the tastebuds. My insatiable sweet tooth can never ever resist cheesecake candied apples from this tantalizing treat-churning factory. They're a top tier old-fashioned favorite next to cake and froyo, chiefly amidst nippier fall weather. I've resolved to attempt concocting homemade ones soon, perhaps in accordance with Thanksgiving next week. Till then, happy weekending, friendly folks - hope it's a downright treat!

Craftplacement

2009-11-19T12:11:00.000-08:00

I sorely miss crafting. Profoundly so. Particularly 'cause I've a plethora of ideas in my noggin I'm itching to spawn into existence. Near-daily craft sessions of yesteryear have dwindled to ephemeral present-day spurts and a vacant shop due to the current phase of bustling post-grad life. Till I move back to the City of Angels (in a couple of moons!), which shall facilitate craft frenzies once again, the nine-to-six and other niceities continue to monopolize my time.

At least the workity-work breeds entertaining anecdotes aplenty. Take a worthwhile gander at them here on my personal monoblog.

Currently craving

2009-11-11T12:10:00.000-08:00

a delectably healthified vegan dessert in cupcake form hailed from the most favored cafe in the City of Angels.

In honor of Babycakies #3

2009-11-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

Weeks of conceptualizing and scheming manifested in a much-awaited surprise baby shower for Mama Ruby and Babycakies #3 this weekend past. Ruby is one extraordinarily special crafty mama of the utmost creative sort so Team Hong/Hwang/Wong/Kim enacted a children's book-themed baby shower riddled with handmade flair reminiscent of everythang towards which Ruby is inclined, from frenzily crafting vintage feedsack scrapsinto vibrantly chipper fabric pennant bannersto complement paper doily streamersin accordance with a festive antique atmosphere.To satiate hunger pangs was a plethora of homemade tasties that each corresponded with a Polaroid of a beloved kiddie storybook: dainty healthified turkey-swiss-spinach-hummus tea sandwiches like those the refined Eloise would have consumed amidst her mischievous antics about New York's Plaza Hotel,variegated goldfish crackers reminiscent of The Rainbow Fish,savory spaghetti and meatballs like that of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs,organic veggies to munch and crunch as displayed throughout The Vegetable Alphabet Book,dino-silhouetted nuggets to edibly symbolize those in If the Dinosaurs Came Back,and, of course, a perilous brigade of homecrafted sweet treats:mini melt-in-your-mouth chocochip cookiespaired with vanilla soymilk shotglasses to exemplify If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,madeleine cookies to mimic Paris-prowling Madeline,a round of home-baked peanut butter cupcakes crowned with cream cheese frosting and Almond Roca tidbits (merely 'cause Ruby indulges an affinity for peanut buttery goodness)to supplement red velvet babycakes with ample dollops of cream cheese frosting, whose red-and-white appearance bespoke of The Cat in the Hat,chocopudding, Oreo cookie, and gummy worm fused dirt cups to enjoy in remembrance of Diary of a Worm,and a watermelon cart replete with succulent fruit cubes worthy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar.All was primed for the momentous arrival of Ruby herself,who graced us all with the most epic reaction ever to be recorded in surprise shindig history. HAHAHAHA.Oh, lovely Bratcher family, how we love you guys and your forthcoming Babycakies #3!!!A smattering of shenanigans befittingly ensued, from a recently engaged chummy proposing to her sister for her hand in maid-of-honor'ness,to incessantly squealing over a just-engaged gal pal, whose fiancé carved, sanded, and painted her in loving toil a ring from a hunk of wood,to garrulously enjoying the cherished company of friendly folks.Ruby, I thank the Lord for you mucho grande nachos for you are an ever dear and wonderful friend who never ever fails to inspire and encourage me with your creativity that spawns legendary craftiness, your godly wisdom from experiences past, your daily living out your role as a wife and mama that indicates so much joy in the Lord, your heart for your chummies, and your taking every crafty/blogging opportunity God is granting you to glorify Him. I love learning from you, nerdily crafting with you, baking with you, chitter chattering lightyears a minute with you, and exchanging with you novels of email updates. I LOVE YOU SO!!!Team Hong/Hwang/Wong/Kim loves Ruby...Ellen, we missed you!

This post is also posted here on my personal blog.

It isn't an eye-opener

2009-11-05T12:39:00.001-08:00

that I've a fondness for everything of the artsy description. All things beautiful and creative. Sewing and watching fabric scraps and notions convert into something lovely, practical, and thoroughly handmade. The delightfully rusty, faded, worn, history-ridden states of vintage knick-knacks scoured from flea markets. The harmoniously eye-catching paint palettes in interior spaces. The irresistible textures of an outfit's two-toned T-strap heels, lacy slip peeking from beneath a circle skirt, and jaunty brooch garnishing a cardigan. The amalgamation of layers on Photoshop that generate a distinctive piece of graphic design. The flawlessly swirled mound of frosting atop a freshly baked cupcake. The haughty charm of a rickety brownstone apartment. The brazen way untamed flora inch towards sun-drenched skies. The composition of photographs that immortalize each intricate and transient moment of beauty evermore. And, of course, inspiring blogs that showcase all things captivating and creative.

Sharing with the world decorating ideas, art, architecture, interior spaces, graphics, and products is Pepsi of Simply Artsy. She is “…obsessed with all beautiful senses of design and hopes to inspire readers to live a more fulfilling creative lifestyle.” Take a peek at her lovely blog, and you’ll perceive without fail that she is one tremendously talented gal! Not to mention that she featured my playground of a studio this week.What an absolute honor. Thank you so very much, Pepsi! So, friendly folks, mosey on over and treat thy eyes with all things simply artsy!

Antique acquiring

2009-10-21T12:22:00.000-07:00

Perusin' prime picks of aged curios always adds a dash of chipperness to my day, particularly whence snagging many a steal of a deal for the upcoming project of grand proportions.

Patch o' pumpkins

2009-10-19T15:43:00.000-07:00

A year's entirety has diddle daddled away since the last vagabond expedition out to a parochial haven that once again beckoned to usas we verged upon the marvelously captivating sight beyond the encompassing bucolic white fence - a provincial patch teeming with portly pumpkins for the pickin' awash in sun-dazzling brilliancetowards which neighboring sunflower families inclined themselvesand through which we cavorted to procure the crème de la crème of vine-ripened pumpkins to usher in a finicky Fall.Dandy diversionary afternoontide!

Splattery surprise

2009-10-14T14:16:00.000-07:00

We've been graced with the first drippity droplets of the season.So lovely to don the bright yellow slicker and white polka-dot parasol to commemorate the first sign of autumnal fervor.

I do hope you're having a ball with the weather o'er in your neck of the woods, mateys!

All dolled up

2009-09-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a lovely gal pal, we tarried away in cosmetic powerhouse Sephora the week prior for their glamorous Express Services soiree,where we got dolled up by a platoon of amicable makeup mavens,were bequeathed nifty complimentary goodies for the face and for the stomach,and encountered new chummies (Carissa, Michelle, and Steppie) with a similar penchant for the art of blogging. 'Twas such fun to indulge in pampering and chitter chattering! Thanks a bunch, Katie, and Sephora Express Services!Do try out the Sephora Express Services if you're residing in the City of Angels! There are 3 additional days to dive into this event: this Saturday, October 3rd, in Century City, this Sunday October 4th, and next Thursday, October 8th, both in Santa Monica. So gather your gal pals and contact 'em here! Cheers, m'dears!

A montage of inspiration

2009-09-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

strikes on whim whence dilly-dallying around and about the City of Angels, first through quaint age-worn brick-embedded thoroughfares, thence via irresistibly palatable organic foodie goodies to relish with lovely chummies of the crafty nature before bombarding Skirball for an aesthetically wondrous screening of French masterpiece Coco avant Chanel,where the turn-of-the-century costumes, vintage furniture, and illustrious cinematography within the climactic tale of France's most famed mademoiselle (brilliantly portrayed by the enchanting Audrey Tautou) before the unparalleled heights of her career as a world-renowned fashion designer, pulled at me heartstrings. 'Twas a most dandy evening!