Thursday, July 31, 2008

Wear and Tear

Give me a home full of wear and tear any day. Perfectly loved for and lived in.


I saw this kitchen on Zest & Thyme and it resonated with my love for all things simple, old and well-designed.

Head-To-Toe

My wallet is going to be in serious trouble come Fall.

Lights Out


I drove back to Austin yesterday and passed the defunct Starlite Drive-In in Brenham, TX. The theater closed in September of 1985, but the gorgeous typography on the still-standing screen makes me smile each time I skip by. I'd frequent the Starlite ad nauseam if it was still operating.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

The Neverending Shower

After ogling numerous outdoor showers, we finally built our own with the intent for it to be simple, private and functional. We started here:


And that lead to an entire Sunday of shopping, building, staining, connecting and mounting:


At this point, the only thing left was to connect the hot water heater to our pipes. That night I woke at 2AM realizing the pipes were hooked up backwards. Another few days were spent redoing the structure and pipe connections, as well as replacing our entire breaker panel to fit the addition of a 10 gallon water heater in the garage. Pandora's Box.

Now, the only bits left [we think] are to repair holes and get our backyard grass in order. Living in a one bathroom house, this extra shower will get loads of use! And just to clarify, our neighbors can not see from their windows. Mom asked.

Monday, July 28, 2008

Cottage Living

Since Slovenia may be a bit farfetched, I'm now looking at Godeffroy, NY to fulfill my lakehouse cottage dreams.



Hope, ME could work as well and even comes with its own guest cottage. Wouldn't take much to spruce either of these rustic places up for the ideal hideaway.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle


My favorite means of recycling is repurposing vintage furniture and architectural finds. Historic Houston is a non-profit dedicated to the preservation of historic architecture and resources. They deconstruct and reclaim building components such as old doors, windows, floors, interior shiplap, exterior siding, lighting and plumbing fixtures by saving them from Texas landfills. Historic Houston’s Salvage Warehouse provides an outlet for the public to reduce, reuse and recycle.


We recently stopped in and I couldn't take my eyes off this doorway. The horseshoe is still perfectly positioned [facing up to contain the luck], waiting to bring good fortune to whomever walks through!

Bar Tab

The more rundown a building, the more I love it. Seeing old landmarks repurposed into new endeavors fuels me, and there isn't a day that goes by where I don't visualize my dream of one day living in an old post office.

During my recent jaunt to New York City, I found myself standing on the corner of W Broadway and White Street smiling from ear to ear. I was at the locked-up entrance to an old Tribeca staple, the Liquor Store Bar. As the name suggests, it was a liquor store-turned-tavern housed in an 1825 townhouse. And it's the only preserved landmark townhouse in NYC zoned for the sale and distribution of alcohol.


It's been closed for a while and a new store is moving in. I couldn't help but chuckle at the cheekiness of the paper covered windows that read, "A GUY WALKS INTO A BAR AND ORDERS A MADRAS. HE WALKS OUT WITH A PAIR OF TROUSERS."

What better way to announce a clothing store is en route?


After browsing J. Crew's updated website, I discovered they are opening their first-ever Men's Shop in, you guessed it, the old Liquor Store Bar. The original wooden bar is still intact and come August, it will serve as the perfect backdrop for streamlined blazers, tailored slacks, and hand-picked collectibles. Upon opening, I imagine there will be steep bar tabs in part to their fine assortment of vintage watches and first-edition books.

Sunday, July 27, 2008

27 on 27

It's my Golden Birthday and this handsome devil threw me one heck of a surprise party. I couldn't have imagined a better way to celebrate turning 27 on the 27th!


Knowing what a fanatic I am about invitations, J hand delivered paper invites to my nearest and dearest. Lucky for me, my parents were in town and lured me out of the house for a few hours [who could turn down manicures and margaritas with Mom?]. I came home to a festive house, lots of delicious food and my very best friends. It will most certainly be a birthday to remember.


Everyone had a blast with the Polaroid...


And finally, the most important thing to consider when presented with your birthday cake: Will the paper under my tart catch fire?

Friday, July 25, 2008

Go, Dog. Go!

One of my favorite childhood books is Go, Dog. Go! by P.D. Eastman. Perhaps this book is what peaked my interest in dogs on the move.

Daytrippin'


Sometimes it's nice to force yourself outside on a rainy day, and yesterday we did just that. My parents and I took a little road trip to Austin where we scoured antique stores, ransacked a candy shop, smiled at this food truck, and ate at a darling cafe that's been harvesting its own organic vegetables and herbs for 15 years. It was like being back in grade school and taking a field trip for just a few hours!

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Free Labor

If you've ever interned to kick-start your creative career, this post [from the always hilarious Stuff White People Like] is a must read. I had serious déjà vu from my first few months in New York City. And, yes, I too was generously offered $24,000 and "...I earned it."

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Wet Bar


As I walked down W Broadway on Saturday, I spotted this sink nook in Tribbles. Take away the big black trash can and I could easily envision myself planting and doing projects in an area like this, all the while surrounded by lush greens and succulents.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Pucker Up

Growing up, I lived at the neighborhood pool all summer long and I'd eat myself sick on Pucker Pops from the snack bar. I just found them online and already purchased a box; I'm gonna be ill.

It's A Draw

Erika inspired me to pull out old artwork and revisit some of my past sketches, circa 2000-2003. What pieces do you still have lying around? We want to see your picture perfect drawings!

Seasonal Crop

You people mean business when it comes to hair! My Inbox has been inundated with emails asking for pre-weekend photos. I seriously had no idea I'd cause such a stir by "holding out on you," as one said. So, without further ado...my summertime crop:

I Am Toast

One of the best things I've ever eaten is Cafe Gitane's Avocado Toast. This is quickly becoming a morning staple in my house.


To make your own, lightly drizzle a thick slice of multi-grain bread with extra virgin olive oil and a tiny squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Using a ripe avocado, generously scoop on top of bread and finish with a sprinkle of red chili flakes. Add a pinch of salt for kicks and you're done!

Bunny Hop

I hopped into Hable Construction over the weekend and my feet led me straight to this hare. Droog, the uber design collection from the Netherlands, based this doormat on 1920s pictograms by German social artist, Gerd Arntz. Quirky and perfectly long [75" of sprawling bunny], he'd be perfect for my backdoor stoop.

Monday, July 21, 2008

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Connecting flights, Amtrak rides from Newark and hustling cabs, my whirlwind trip to New York City had me reliving Planes, Trains and Automobiles. I've finally recuperated and here's my weekend review...


Snack:
Grace Bar. This was my first stop at 1AM on Friday night. I was craving a cocktail made with St-Germain, my friend a beer. It pleased us both and their bar bites definitely hit the spot after a dinner of airplane nuts and Pringles.
Cafe Gitane. I worked in Nolita for most of my time in NYC and this little hipster hangout kept me well fed. They consistently serve fresh, interesting food that leaves you craving more.
The Rusty Knot. After a a sweaty day of running the streets, I joined a friend and cooled off with a Dark 'N Stormy, Pretzel Dog, and Beer Bread. It was a carb fest that made me one happy girl!
Little Giant. Holy goodness this place was delish. It's always hard for me not to revisit my old favorite restaurants, but I'm glad my friend Kelly has exciting new suggestions. We started off with a couple of apéritifs [seriously good Pimm's Cups] and ended with a divine Strawberry Shortcake. And no complaints about everything we consumed in between! One of the most adorable restaurants ever.

Shop:
Rebecca Taylor. The summer sale had me hooked and I left with the most perfect cotton dress. It was a pleasure running into an old friend that still works there!
Jill Stuart. Downstairs in her SoHo boutique, she stocks all vintage and I love Jill's girly sensibility. Bought the most incredible dress that I'm dying to pull out for my birthday. It makes me feel just like Carmen Miranda, but in a good way.
Vespa SoHo. Such fun! And some of the nicest sales people ever.
Opening Ceremony. Great shop for edgier pieces and their extensive collection of Gerard Tully was impressive.
Madewell. The most perfect basics in the whole world...but I'd already spent my coin at Jill Stuart.

Snip:
• The cut turned out short, choppy and ideal for Houston's heat! Since I feel awkward about taking pics of myself, I promise to post some from my birthday activities over the weekend. But let's be honest, forget the hair...you're dying for serious Madge-scoop! Corvette leaves on Wednesday to prepare for the tour and will be in charge of Madonna's hair through December. He doesn't get to travel on a private plane with her, nor does he get much time off during his trip across America, Europe and South America. He's so modest and respectful of his upcoming gig that he never even mentioned her name aloud, but simply referred to the rockstar as "she" and "her." I loved it!

Sleep:
• 7 total hours total from both Friday and Saturday night.

Sanity:
• Would do it again in a New York minute.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Shear Genius

I am borderline insane.

This morning I met a friend for coffee. For a couple of months now, she and I have been trying to visit New York City, but flight and hotel rates are astronomical. Since they don't seem to be dropping, we planned for a September trip.

Something many of you may not know [...this is where the whole insane bit may come into play], I fly to New York to get my hair cut. Before you pass judgement, allow me to explain. My hair is half curly, half straight and all frizz, and it takes a special person to control it. When I lived in the city, the angels descended to Earth and led me to Corvette, the most amazing man to ever comb his fingers through my hair and tousle it just so [Hi J, I love you!].

My curls were standing straight as I thought about being reunited with him come September. Corvette is nothing short of shear genius.

Around 10AM, I received insider information: Corvette is leaving me. As of Wednesday, he is going on tour as Madonna's personal stylist for five whole months. I am both ecstatic and enraged all at the same time. So, I did what any crazed normal girl would do, I immediately booked an appointment for Saturday at 1PM in New York City. I live in Houston.

So, yes, I am traveling 1,630 miles to get my hair cut. And as ridiculous as it may sound, I have no qualms about it. We only get one shot at life and I can't wait to board that flight at 5PM tomorrow afternoon.

[photo via Lula]

The Sunshine State

Interesting exterior details and inspiring color combinations from the easygoing towns of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Head Over Heels

These Yves Saint Laurent heels deserve their own party.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Drive-Thru

I have a serious affinity for food trucks, actually any sort of mobile food carrier tickles my fancy! A little tribute to people who have gotten it right by serving fresh, homemade food while mastering the concept of branding.

Food Shark. Located in Marfa, TX, this silver beast stations itself under the pavillion between the railroad tracks and Marfa Book Co serving up Mediterranean dishes like Marfalafels and hummus. At night, the Food Shark roams the streets eager to feed late night movers and shakers.


Flip Happy Crepes. Made from scratch, with love, all from inside a vintage Airsteam. Flip Happy Crepes is located in Austin, TX and serves up sweet and savory crepes, as well as special breakfast crepes on Saturday.


DessertTruck. Started by two friends, Chris Chen and Jerome Chang, a former pastry sous chef at Le Cirque, they aim to make people smile one dessert at a time. DessertTruck is parked around St. Mark's Place in New York City and cranks out fine-dining desserts like Coconut Tapioca and Molten Chocolate Cake. All served in eco-friendly cups; doing both stomachs and the environment good!



UPDATE: How in the world could I leave out this gem of a food truck?

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Light Up

The Domino spread on photographer Matt Albiani's two gorgeous homes [one in Long Island, the other in Manhattan] featured some incredible lighting. Each page showcased quirky, industrial lamps that complimented the nautical decor. A month later, I am still obsessed.


Cleveland Art sells a few similar styles, like the vintage trouble light and the machine floor lamp.

In a Land Far, Far Away

...is a house built in 1978 that's seriously calling my name. This quiet getaway is located in the wine country of Slovenia and just 2 hours from the Croatian seaside. It is utter perfection.


The view is breathtaking...


Sure, the interior needs a little fixing up, but it has great bones. Would be a cinch to renovate...

Monday, July 14, 2008

Sloppy Joe's

My paternal grandparents were known as "Smitty" and "Tinker". As newlyweds, they took a cruise to Cuba ...accompanied by Tinker's sister and brother-in-law.

During this trip, Smitty purchased a white linen suit for travel at Tinker's request. When they got to Cuba, she wanted him to buy a pair of white alligator shoes to match. They found a pair and my Gramps protested because they were too tight. Tinker insisted the shoes DID fit, bought them and Smitty was crippled the entire trip. Oh, how I wish this photo wasn't cut off at his ankles!


My Granny, Tinker, is slouched over the bar either from exhaustion or over-consumption. Probably both. Smitty is to her left. My great aunt, Ziggy, and her husband, Carter, pictured to the far right.

Three's Company

Jennifer at The Most Awesome Stuff Ever asked me to participate in the Three Tag and I'm happy to oblige! ...because, quite frankly, everything is better in threes.


1. What are the last 3 things you purchased?
• galvanized pipes and fittings for the outdoor shower we're building
• more Haverhill swimsuits...now on sale!
motorcycle course registration and, no, I don't plan on operating a Harley.

2. What are the last 3 songs you downloaded?
Everyone Gets a Star - Albert Hammond Jr.
Sweeter Than This - Katie Herzig
How We Breathe - Pinback

3. Where were the last 3 places you visited?
Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Topsy, LA/Calcasieu River
Marfa, TX

4. What are your 3 favorite movies?
Coming to America
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory

5. What are your 3 favorite possessions?
my vintage car; it was the first car I picked out myself
• my shoe collection
• a photograph of my grandparents and Mom standing on Broadway in 1958. My Grandpa won a trip to New York City for selling the most air conditioners in his region. They put his name, Arthur Ory, in lights on Broadway!

6. What 3 things can you not live without?
• incredible food
• my computer
• our little family of J and Burkly

7. What would be your 3 wishes?
• to have traveled around the States selling antiques with my Uncle
• for my parents to have known J's Dad
• a lifetime of good health

8. What are 3 things you have not done yet?
• run a marathon
• purchase/renovate a lakehouse
• raise a child

9. What are your 3 favorite dishes?
seriously, only THREE?! this will be tough, so I'll pick three that lately I've been salivating over...
• Dad's pepper roast
• baked beans
• this devilish duo from Giada De Laurentiis

10. What 3 celebrities would you want to hang out with the most?
• Jamie Oliver
• Vivienne Westwood
• Sasha Petraske

11. Name 3 things that freak you out.
• the feeling of gels on my skin, i.e. applying aloe gives me the willies!
• lizards
• the thought that lizards are mating in my fig ivy

12. If you could describe yourself in 3 words, what would they be?
• energetic
• explorative
• creative

13. Name 3 unusual things you are good at.
• turning trash into treasure
• conceptualizing space/space planning
• flag twirling

14. What are 3 things you are currently coveting?
• cooler weather
Sub-Zero 611G
• kitchen awning so the sun will quit blinding me while I'm cooking

15. What 3 bloggers would you like tag?
• Picking specific people sends me into a frenzy, like I'm choosing my P.E. team. If you'd love to play along, do so and leave a comment so we can all go to your blog and read it!

What's Your Number?

I don't know if it's because my birthday is drawing near, but I've been ogling these European hand shaped sparklers for a while now. Available from Sea and Jae, the sweetest little shop that's revitalized gift giving.

Friday, July 11, 2008

Stir It Up

Nothing like a silver cocktail spoon straw to stir up those Gin Rickeys. The vintage ones are even better! I can remember pulling these out of my Dad's bar and using them to slurp my Icee.

Window Shopping

For as long as I can remember, I've coveted a Sub-Zero 611G refrigerator/freezer with a glass door. To see my produce and groceries ready for the pickin' would constantly inspire me to create delicious, fresh meals. And with the organic nature of food, I wouldn't feel pressured to have it "styled" on the shelves.

Just think of all the energy you'll save seeing what's behind that door without letting the cool air out! [Justification at it's best.]

[Urban Grace Interiors]

[Coco+Kelley]

[California Home+Design]

[A Life's Design]

[A Continuous Lean via Rachel Barrett for the NY Times]