Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Pinterest Monthly: July 2013


I've been obsessed with looking at Apartment Therapy's home tours. For the longest time, I've been a fan of neutral color palettes but lately, I've been drawn to pops of bold colors. Yellow has been calling my name. I love the way it contrasts against whites.


I love this shot! Everything from the Siamese (makes me miss my childhood cat, Lemieux), the chair, the end table and the bookshelves!


This DIY Rorschach-inspired art gallery. I can never remember how to spell or properly pronounce that name, by the way. I probably wouldn't do a full wall of prints but I think one would go nicely with other pieces.


Using uniquely different door knobs for each room of the house. I think this idea adds an unexpected splash of personality. It definitely breaks up the monotony of basic hardware.


These Waverly & Irving candles are gorgeous but way too pricey for my liking. I found the brand on Gilt (love their mason jar champagne candles!). The good news? This is an easy DIY. Glassware like this (Fenton, Westermoreland, Jeannette) is quite easy to find in certain parts of the country (thrift stores, flea markets, garage sales, etc.) or on eBay. Just add a candle and you're fabulous.


The free soul is rare.


"See No Evil" by Iva Mara. Need this framed.


The Cottingley Fairies. Really fascinated by this true story and the accompanying photographs.


Kimono Love. Want a few of these.


My vintage Fendi bag! Looking forward to wearing this in the fall. I've been really attracted to check prints lately (MacKenzie-Childs, Louis Vuitton, etc.).


Solid Emerald ring. Yes, please.


Love this hair style. Can't wait to get my hair cut in a couple weeks. Definitely need it thinned out, a few inches off and some new layers back in. I've been sporting it in a bun for months.


This gorgeous old church and lovely shrubbery. Very romantic.


This sweet little pup. That coat is adorable.


Genius! Gum used to spell out words on a cake. I'm definitely doing this. Edible, easy to work with and gives it some color and dimension.


Loving the look of cotton displayed in vases. Natural home decor and a nice change of pace from flowers.



Zion National Park Driving Tour. I've been to Sedona and LOVED it but this place also looks spectacular. Want to go!















Now Playing: "Head On" by Man Man

Monday, July 29, 2013

Music Monday: Du Tonc


"Darkness"


"Rise"


"Surging Memories"


Du Tonc are Matt Van Schie (Australia) and Mighty Mouse (London).

Official
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram









Sunday, July 28, 2013

Go Deep: Who Do You Think You Are? J.K. Rowling



Because of my red hair, green eyes and fair skin, I often get told by strangers that I must be 100% Irish. When people ask what my nationalities are, I never have a confident answer. While there is definitely Irish on my Mother's side of the family, my Father's side is a bit of a mystery. There's some Italian on the family tree but the rest of the branches are up for debate. With the exception of my Mom's proud to be Irish stance, my parents don't really talk about their ancestry. This has lead me to be quite fascinated by genealogy. Because of this fact (in addition to my curiosity and love of history), the show Who Do You Think You Are? is one of my favorites. Someday in the near future, I fully intend to delve deeper into my family tree and turn over some new leafs.






























Now Playing: "Darkness" by Du Tonc

Missed Connections: Sending Signals Edition


does anyone out there also appreciate the beauty of the turn signal?
such a quiet call for gentle attention. with a heartbeat rhythm. personally, my favorite view is from the rear (the luminous red ones, so like lips), though from inside, those green arrows illuminating the dash, with their aching hollow plunk, punctuating that patient longing cowboy tune, 200 miles into a 300-mile post-meridian delivery- now that's an compelling second.
          & and in summer, a hand turn signal, for a right turn? I'd stop the world & melt for you.

          just saying. 


When people neglect to use their turning signal, it bothers me. A pet peeve since I first learned to drive and probably well before then, it's always irritated me. So when I came across this missed connections post, I was thrown off. I never considered the possibility that someone could be turned on by turning signals. Probably because most people aren't. This is actually really creepy and kind of funny. It's been awhile since I came across a post that was worthy of a share but I think this one is a keeper. If you ever drive in Pittsburgh, remember the signal you're sending might be taken in a different direction. I know I'll never look at that little blinking light the same way again.











Now Playing: "I Melt With You" by Modern English.
*Just saying.

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Quoteworthy: Charles Bukowski, 1920-1994















Now Playing: "Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want" by The Smiths

Monday, July 22, 2013

Sun in Leo, July 22 - August 23


As my Sun sign is in Aquarius, Leo is therefore, my partner sign. I appreciate that Leos are natural leaders. The ones that I know are very likable. Leos are usually the first to be spotted in a crowd or looked to for guidance. In my experience, Leos are generally very popular, good-looking (great heads of hair) and successful. With the Sun as their ruler, those blessed with this placement are generally lucky in life. Many go on to be famous, talented, wealthy or quite powerful in whatever they choose to pursue.

Personal attributes that many with Sun in Leo (or strong Leo placement) may possess:

  • Confident
  • Ambitious
  • Leader
  • Successful
  • Powerful
  • Attractive
  • Magnetic
  • Warm
  • Sexy
  • Talented
  • Energetic
  • Mature
  • Bright
  • Unique
  • Original
  • Intelligent
  • Wealthy
  • Creative
  • Presidential
  • Vain
  • Arrogant
  • Proud
  • Serious
  • Stubborn
  • Hot
  • Temperamental
  • Dependable
  • Loyal
  • Refined
  • Worldly
  • Athletic
  • Charming
  • Funny
  • Materialistic
  • Egotistical
  • Self-centered
  • Popular
  • Well-liked
  • Dominant
  • Memorable
  • Good hair
  • Strong
  • Positive
  • Enthusiastic
  • Kind
  • Heartfelt
  • Clear-minded
  • Fatherly
  • Driven

Just a few of the famous Sun in Leos (there are many!):
  • President Barack Obama
  • Madonna
  • Stanley Kubrick
  • Arnold Schwarzenegger
  • Robert Redford
  • Whitney Houston
  • Mick Jagger
  • Edward Norton
  • Halle Berry
  • Daniel Radcliffe
  • Robert de Niro
  • Bill Clinton
  • Ben Affleck
  • Sidney Crosby
  • Roger Federer
  • Charlize Theron
  • Lynda Carter
  • Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
  • Carl Jung
  • Coco Chanel
  • Sean Penn
  • Roman Polanski
  • Mila Kunis
  • Patrick Swayze
  • J.K. Rowling
  • Alfred Hitchcock
  • Andy Warhol
  • Robert Plant
  • Jennifer Lawrence
  • Chris Hemsworth
  • Jonathan Rhys-Meyers
  • Iman
  • Kate Beckinsale
  • Fidel Castro
  • Hilary Swank
  • Julian McMahon
  • Neil Armstrong
  • Hugo Chavez
  • Lisa Kudrow
  • Matt LeBlanc
  • Matthew Perry
  • Yves Saint Laurent
  • Louis Vuitton
  • Tom Brady
  • Hulk Hogan
  • Gerri Halliwell
  • Anna Paquin
  • JonBenet Ramsey
  • Steve Carell
  • Joe Jonas
  • Louis Armstrong
  • Amelia Earhart
  • Lucille Ball
  • Slash
  • David Duchovny
  • Gillian Anderson
  • James Cameron
  • Kevin Spacey
  • Martha Stewart
  • Helen Mirren
  • Evangeline Lily
  • Kim Cattrall
  • Charles Bukowski
  • Steve Martin

If you're interested in finding out your own personal natal chart (free!), have your date, time and place of birth ready and click here.
*Cusp dates are approximate by year.











Now Playing: "The Sun" by Portugal. The Man
*A quintessential song for Leos.

Music Monday: Kodaline


"All I Want"


"High Hopes"


"Perfect World"


Full EP



Kodaline is an alternative rock group from Dublin, Ireland. Their debut album In A Perfect World is available in Ireland but is expected to be released to the U.S. in the near future. Their self-titled EP can be purchased here.

Official
Facebook
Twitter










Saturday, July 20, 2013

Jesse And The Rippers Forever!



Thank you to Jimmy Fallon for orchestrating this moment of bliss in my summer life! I was ecstatic to see this go down! Growing up in the 90s, Full House was monumental. I still watch episodes every now and again (not more often because I've admittedly seen every single one, several times). I've always hoped for a reunion episode or even a movie. For the time being, this was enough. And *spoiler alert*, when Aunt Becky came out at the end, I may have teared up a bit. If Kimmy Gibbler were there, I may not have been able to hide my emotions. Have mercy!

And for old time's sake, here's another famous band from Full House that none of us could ever forget (okay, maybe a few of you have), Girl Talk! No, not the mashup artist from here in the 'Burgh. The ORIGINAL Girl Talk.











Want, Need, Wear, Read

WNRW3




Want: Louis Vuitton. I've held back from making the investment in Louis for so many years because it seems every other girl you see at the mall is carrying the same bag. What good is luxury without individuality? But I can't deny the quality or timelessness of the brand. There's something to say for a company that's been around for centuries yet continues to use the same monogram. I happen to like the scheme of the monogram print and feel it would complement my wardrobe and coloring nicely. I really like the versatility of the Eva Clutch and also have my eye on the Josephine wallet in green. The scarves are also tempting.

Need: A new car. I should have gotten it by Spring but delays, delays. Fingers crossed. I've wanted the same car for nearly as long as I've had my license. They say good things come to those who wait and I hope to prove that. I'd rather have an older car that I love than a brand new one that will depreciate in value the second you drive it off the lot (and with identical models all over the roadways).

Wear: With the stifling heat and humidity at its peak in July, thankfully I have my trusty bun-a-ma-jig. That's a much better term than "doughnut" or "sock bun", don't you agree? I refuse to get my hair cut until Mercury retrograde ends (today!) and the cooler weather approaches. Until then, I'm so happy that buns are in style. It's a nice throwback to the days when women wore updos and dressed far more elegantly than us hot messes of the 21st century. Buns are easy, instantly make you look put together and best of all, keep you from going into heat exhaustion.

Read: Lily Dale: The True Story of the Town That Talks to the Dead by Christine Wicker. Ever since viewing the documentary No One Dies in Lily Dale, I've been entranced by all things Lily Dale. I'm making it a point to finally visit the tiny Spiritualist community this summer. I'm almost done with this book and I definitely recommend a read. It's a good perspective on the Dale. I really want to get a reading by Rev. Anne Gehman. Her energy speaks to me.










Now Playing: "Of the Mother Again" by Jim James

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Quoteworthy


"By and large, talent is in such short supply that mediocrity can be taken for brilliance rather more than genius can go undiscovered."
-Charles Saatchi










Now Playing: "Ghosts and Monsters" by George Ellinas
*So good! Listen here.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Luxe Living: A Touch of Copper











As a natural redhead, I've always described the color of my hair as copper; not unlike a new penny. Because of my familiarity with the shade, perhaps that's why I appreciate the look of copper fixtures and other home furnishings. Its an authentic material that I find warm and somewhat unexpected. When the time comes for me to fly from the nest (hopefully sooner rather than later), I will definitely be coveting copper. I'll certainly adorn my new place with many beautiful pieces.

A few ideas for copper around the house that I'm most attracted to:

  • Planters as makeup brush holders
  • Backsplash tiles in the kitchen 
  • Farmhouse sinks
  • Ceilings
  • Bath tubs
  • Tiles to cover a dishwasher
  • Bath/Kitchen faucets
  • Lighting fixtures
  • Teapots
  • Canisters
  • Barware
  • Tableware
  • Trays
  • Pots and pans
  • Cups
  • Desk accessories/containers
  • Vases

However you choose to style this material, it's a good way to add originality to your home. 
















Now Playing: "Revenge" by Danger Mouse and Sparklehorse ft. The Flaming Lips

Monday, July 15, 2013

Music Monday: MMX


"Ritual"


"Tremor"


"Stay"


"Mercy"


"Ten" (Live)



MMX are from Oxford, England. Their EP, Child, can be purchased here.

Official
Facebook
Twitter










Saturday, July 13, 2013

Recently Purchased


RP71313



1. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Intensive Moisturizing Hand Treatment.
I really wanted the cute little leopard travel bag and free goodies Elizabeth Arden was giving out so I picked this up to qualify. I've been looking for a good hand cream. I'm not in love with this one but it's good enough.

2. Clarins Intense Blue Eyeliner.
This is from the new Fall collection. It's somewhat of a midnight blue that leans a bit like a blackened purple. It goes really well with my fair skin and dark green eyes. The attached brush is also a nice touch.

3. Chanel Summer Collection Nail Polishes in Azure (657) and Bel-Argus (667).
I've really been drawn to these types of jewel-toned colors lately. These varnishes have a metallic finish to them and they're very pretty for manicures or pedicures.

4. Zara Studded Leather Bowling Bag.
I'm so glad I checked up on this bag because it went on sale. It's now one of my favorites in my collection. The color is perfect and the leather is supple. It's a good size but very lightweight. I hope I can keep her clean.

5. Sandals.
-Rampage Orbinksy Jelly (Nude with gold Bow)
-Rampage Oberdene Jelly (Black with gold Studs)
-Restricted Kally (Gold with colored Jewels)
As much as I wish I was a high heel type of girl, I'd much rather be comfortable in the summer. These flat sandals are fun and easy to throw on and off. I love that jellies are back in style. I got all 3 on sale. Nice for the pool.

6. Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Primer.
I was never a fan of foundation primer until I tried this out. I have very dry skin and moisturizing is key for me. Because I shower at night, sometimes I don't have the time when I'm getting ready in the day to apply cream and allow it to settle into my skin. This product is the perfect solution.

7. Kate Spade Mikas Pond Stacy Leather Wallet in Gold.
My favorite color. I love this! It's so cute and looks perfect with my new Zara bag.

8. Memory Card Reader.
I've said for months on end that I'm going to transfer all of my pictures and video from my BlackBerry (5 years worth) onto my computer. I finally ordered something to make this happen. Let's hope it works because I need to join the rest of civilization already and get an iPhone (and Instagram)!

9. Waverly and Irving Champagne Mason Jar Candles (not pictured).
My new favorite scent. I picked a few of these up on Gilt. I don't like to pay a lot for candles (note to self: learn how to pour your own) but these were worth it. Champagne and candles are among my favorite things in life. It's about time I combined the two.













Now Playing: "I Already Forgot Everything You Said" by The Dig

Thursday, July 11, 2013

My Favorite Things: Lanterns

Lanterns



I've never met a lantern that I didn't admire. There's something mystical about them. Like moths to a flame, I'm drawn to their warm beauty. I suppose I have an appreciation for objects that contain other things- purses, wallets, boxes, houses, nesting dolls, to name just a few. Perhaps the reason I so adore lanterns is because they're in a sense, a "home" for another one of my loves, candles.

Lanterns are akin to doll houses (something I spent much of my time surrounded by as a little girl). The architectural structure of lanterns are so visually appealing. Their adorable little roofs providing way for doors that open to welcome whatever you so choose to store inside- often nothing at all. The beauty of lanterns can easily stand on its own as a piece of indoor/outdoor decor. Or during the holidays, they can be filled with seasonal decorations- anything from pumpkins and gourds to tinsel, ornaments and lights.

First mentioned by the ancient Greeks in ~300 BC, the primary function of lanterns was to simply shield a burning candle from the elements. There's a timeless authenticity about them. You could place an antique lantern next to one you found at a big box store and they would completely complement each other. There's no level of hierarchy with these objects. There's beauty in all of their designs.

For these reasons and more, lanterns are one of my favorite things.












Now Playing: "Symphony No. 38" by Mozart (Prague Chamber Orchestra)

Monday, July 8, 2013

Luxe Living: Annie Brahler's Dream Closet






I recently found a new television program that I love to watch. Resale Royalty airs on the Style Network. The show centers around a high-end designer resale store owned by a mother-daughter trio in St. Louis.

I grew up in a household with parents who had an eye for quality pieces but predominantly shopped at thrift stores. Because of this fact, I've always admired antiques and objects with a possible unknown history. I have no reservations about purchasing something pre-owned. When you discover something that you never even knew you wanted and truly let that item speak to you, it's all the more special. I delight in unique objects with a past, especially if those goodies are valuable treasures. Clothing and accessories (along with art, cars, houses, music and just about everything else in the world) simply aren't made like they once were. Unless you have the money to purchase from the top tier of luxury brands, thrifting is your best option.

On the pilot episode of Resale Royalty, the ladies from Women's Closet Exchange head to noted interior designer, Annie Brahler's stunning Victorian home in Jacksonville, Illinois, for a buy.



I thought Annie's home was spectacular (and also couldn't help but wonder who her sweater was by). Any visit that revolves around two of my favorite things- champagne and style, can't go wrong. In the end, the ladies from the resale shop offered Annie $15,000 for some wonderful pieces from her wardrobe including a handful of Louis Vuitton bags, an Hermes scarf, Diane von Furstenberg evening dress and Chanel earrings. Some lucky ladies in St. Louis certainly benefited from that closet purge!


If you're a Pinterest fanatic like me, Annie Brahler's closet may look familiar. A photo from a House Beautiful feature of her stunning custom dressing room went viral on the site.


Absolutely perfect!












Now Playing: "Band of Gold" by Freda Payne
*One of my favorite songs!

Music Monday: Snake! Snake! Snakes!


I happily stumbled upon Snake! Snake! Snakes! after viewing the trailer for Tanner Hall. It wasn't an easy feat to find their track "City on Fire" but it was well-worth the hunt. Ever the curious cat who's always looking for new music to discover, I decided to dig a bit deeper. I was excited to hear several of their other songs that I also enjoyed. I'm a few years tardy for this party but better late than never.

"City on Fire"


"We Come Out at Night"


"Thieves"


"The Mountain Fire"


"Porcelain"


Snake! Snake! Snakes! are from Phoenix, Arizona. Their self-titled EP can be purchased here.

Official
Facebook







Sunday, July 7, 2013

ever thine ever mine ever ours



Good morning, on July 7 

Though still in bed, my thoughts go out to you, my Immortal Beloved, now and then joyfully, then sadly, waiting to learn whether or not fate will hear us - I can live only wholly with you or not at all - Yes, I am resolved to wander so long away from you until I can fly to your arms and say that I am really at home with you, and can send my soul enwrapped in you into the land of spirits - Yes, unhappily it must be so - You will be the more contained since you know my fidelity to you. No one else can ever possess my heart - never - never - Oh God, why must one be parted from one whom one so loves. And yet my life in V is now a wretched life - Your love makes me at once the happiest and the unhappiest of men - At my age I need a steady, quiet life - can that be so in our connection? My angel, I have just been told that the mailcoach goes every day - therefore I must close at once so that you may receive the letter at once - Be calm, only by a calm consideration of our existence can we achieve our purpose to live together - Be calm - love me - today - yesterday - what tearful longings for you - you - you - my life - my all - farewell. Oh continue to love me - never misjudge the most faithful heart of your beloved. 

ever thine 

ever mine 

ever ours


-Ludwig van Beethoven, Third Letter, Immortal Beloved










Now Playing: "Moonlight Sonata" by Beethoven

Thursday, July 4, 2013

Chanel Haute Couture Show Fall/Winter 2013/2014



Millions of dollars spent on design, fabrics, models and more but Chanel couldn't choose a place with suitable air conditioning for its guests?

True story: I live in a beautiful, stately, old house that also happens to lack proper cooling accommodations. When I spritz myself with a dollar store water bottle or fan my body with the latest issue of Vogue, I won't pity my surroundings. I'm simply a slave to fashion. It's haute couture to sweat! It's Chanel!







Flick Pick: Tanner Hall




Often times, it seems as though films with a predominant female cast (especially of the younger variety) receive harsher than necessary criticism. Until now, I had never even heard of 2009's Tanner Hall. After catching a bit of the film on late night television, I did a bit of research (of the Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb persuasion). The reviews were abysmal. But the plot and cast (Rooney Mara, Georgia King, Brie Larson, Amy Ferguson, Tom Everett Scott, Amy Sedaris, Chris Kattan) intrigued me. I gave Tanner Hall a viewing on Netflix. I'm so glad that I did.

Now I can understand that this isn't a movie for everyone. It doesn't have an extremely broad appeal but for those who can get behind its message, it is superb. If you're a female who enjoys a well-presented coming-of-age tale, this is a nice one to see. I thoroughly enjoyed the performances and found the pace of the film to move quite nicely. It's one of most underrated movies I've had the pleasure to watch. Fans of Now and Then, Mona Lisa Smile, and An Education will likely appreciate this hidden treasure of a film.













Now Playing: "Your Ex-Lover Is Dead" by Stars
*Beautifully placed

Blog Archive

My photo
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
I'm living life in beautiful Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I hold a journalism degree from West Virginia University. I have worked in television news, fashion marketing, PR, and cosmetic sales. My love for writing and sharing with the world my various passions is strong. One of my many ambitions is to be published and continue creating in the fields of digital and print media, literature and film. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, going to concerts, reading, following Pittsburgh sports and traveling as often as possible. Some of my favorite things include beauty, style, architecture, books, tarot and astrology, thrifting and my shih-tzu, Ireland. I’m engaged to the love of my lifetimes and we look forward to starting our next chapter together. If you have any questions or comments, I would love to hear from you!