more of this seasons non-leather shoes from Olen Haus here: http://www.olsenhaus.com/shop_spring10.html
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Olsen Haus - Spring 2010
more of this seasons non-leather shoes from Olen Haus here: http://www.olsenhaus.com/shop_spring10.html
10 Little Things that Lead to a Happier, Healthier You.
Here are 10 little things I do in my life that help me stay happy and healthy:
1. Spend a little time each week practicing a new skill.
I try to spend some time every week (every day if I can) studying something new: learning a few phrases in new language, refining a sewing technique, working on a DIY project or something else altogether. Taking some time to learn a new skill is not only fun, but completely rewarding.
2. Cut down on excess.
I understand this blog is very consumer oriented. Lots of flashy, cool new products that practically scream "BUY ME!". But the truth of the matter is that I buy very few of the things that I post. Not because I don't want to (I want them all), but because self restraint is a good thing. It's nice to own nice things and support the things you love, but do so with discretion. Which brings me to little thing #3...
3. Appreciate the work of others.
In our quest to aspire to our own personal best, I think its sometimes easy to overlook the great things others have done. Take some time to appreciate the awesome things that other people do: family members, friends, artists, writers, etc. Taking time to reflect on the actions and creations of others can be motivating and inspiring. Which brings me to little thing #4...
4. Support what you love!
I know this was mentioned in #2, but this is super important. Taking the time to think about the people and things you want to support financially is a huge deal. From supporting multinational corporations to small independent companies to charity organizations, who and what you want to support is something to always consider (every dollar is a vote!). I'm big on supporting the independent arts. Contributing to charitable causes is also very rewarding, but make sure to do your research and contribute wisely.
5. Make new connections.
Make new connections with the people you already know, people you've lost touch with, and new people all together! It's always great to make new connections with people who share similar interests and passions, but also try to make connections with those who have seemingly little in common- you might be able to learn something new and exciting or find out you have way more in common than you thought.
6. Don't be afraid to do things alone!
We are constantly taught to be afraid of being alone. We are taught that it either makes us a target for victimization (especially as women) or makes us look like some kind of antisocial loner. I actually just got back from my first vacation as a solo traveler (I also stayed in a hostel) and the experience was great. Being alone allowed me the freedom to do things at my own pace, make more connections with new people, and focus on doing the things that I enjoy the most. Things are far less scary than they seem. Not to say you shouldn't be cautious, but you shouldn't be fearful either.
7. Explore the world.
You don't even have to leave your house to do this! The internet has made exploring the world and all its offerings easier than ever before, so definitely take advantage and learn about the fascinating world around you. From language websites to video websites to chat and social networking websites its easier than ever to connect with places, people and ideas from around the world. Take advantage of the amazing variety the world has to offer. Of course, its always nice to actually get out there and travel, but when you can't you can still explore the beauty of the world.
8. Enjoy some fun exercise.
Exercise can be super boring and completely dreaded. I mean, I don't even hate the gym, but I don't always look forward to going. Take the time to do some enjoyable exercise. Find a nice, beautiful place to walk, ride a bike or take a jog. Not all exercise has to be a chore!
9. Have a healthy snack.
Sounds so cliche, but this is another important one. We all crave hydrogenated, corn syrupy goodness (or should I say badness?) every once in awhile (ok, maybe its just me), but don't give in! Reach for a nice, tasty, healthier snack instead. Something like a delicious fruit smoothie/juice, some fresh fruit or my favorite... carrot sticks with hummus, yum. So much more refreshing than processed foods!
10. Get some sleep!
It's not just about getting enough sleep, its also about making sure you don't stay up too late or end up waking up in the afternoon. Having spend unreasonable amounts of time as a full time student, this was always one of the hardest things for me to do. Then suddenly, my sleep patterns became normal and my life became so much less stressful, I was also much more happy! Making sure you get to bed early enough to get a full night's sleep also means prioritizing your schedule and making sure you get things done in a timely manner- which is awesome!
Twittermoms and Tropicana have teamed up to celebrate the small steps we each take toward big things, whether it be health, happiness, wellbeing or all of the above, the little things we do can make a huge impact! Bloggers were asked to post 10 things in their life that help them stay happy and healthy. To participate in this program or discussion be sure to visit the Twittermoms post here: http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/share-10-little-things-that.
Trop50 Little Things for Happy, Healthy Living
1000 Little Things for Moms from Trop50
1. Spend a little time each week practicing a new skill.
I try to spend some time every week (every day if I can) studying something new: learning a few phrases in new language, refining a sewing technique, working on a DIY project or something else altogether. Taking some time to learn a new skill is not only fun, but completely rewarding.
2. Cut down on excess.
I understand this blog is very consumer oriented. Lots of flashy, cool new products that practically scream "BUY ME!". But the truth of the matter is that I buy very few of the things that I post. Not because I don't want to (I want them all), but because self restraint is a good thing. It's nice to own nice things and support the things you love, but do so with discretion. Which brings me to little thing #3...
3. Appreciate the work of others.
In our quest to aspire to our own personal best, I think its sometimes easy to overlook the great things others have done. Take some time to appreciate the awesome things that other people do: family members, friends, artists, writers, etc. Taking time to reflect on the actions and creations of others can be motivating and inspiring. Which brings me to little thing #4...
4. Support what you love!
I know this was mentioned in #2, but this is super important. Taking the time to think about the people and things you want to support financially is a huge deal. From supporting multinational corporations to small independent companies to charity organizations, who and what you want to support is something to always consider (every dollar is a vote!). I'm big on supporting the independent arts. Contributing to charitable causes is also very rewarding, but make sure to do your research and contribute wisely.
5. Make new connections.
Make new connections with the people you already know, people you've lost touch with, and new people all together! It's always great to make new connections with people who share similar interests and passions, but also try to make connections with those who have seemingly little in common- you might be able to learn something new and exciting or find out you have way more in common than you thought.
6. Don't be afraid to do things alone!
We are constantly taught to be afraid of being alone. We are taught that it either makes us a target for victimization (especially as women) or makes us look like some kind of antisocial loner. I actually just got back from my first vacation as a solo traveler (I also stayed in a hostel) and the experience was great. Being alone allowed me the freedom to do things at my own pace, make more connections with new people, and focus on doing the things that I enjoy the most. Things are far less scary than they seem. Not to say you shouldn't be cautious, but you shouldn't be fearful either.
7. Explore the world.
You don't even have to leave your house to do this! The internet has made exploring the world and all its offerings easier than ever before, so definitely take advantage and learn about the fascinating world around you. From language websites to video websites to chat and social networking websites its easier than ever to connect with places, people and ideas from around the world. Take advantage of the amazing variety the world has to offer. Of course, its always nice to actually get out there and travel, but when you can't you can still explore the beauty of the world.
8. Enjoy some fun exercise.
Exercise can be super boring and completely dreaded. I mean, I don't even hate the gym, but I don't always look forward to going. Take the time to do some enjoyable exercise. Find a nice, beautiful place to walk, ride a bike or take a jog. Not all exercise has to be a chore!
9. Have a healthy snack.
Sounds so cliche, but this is another important one. We all crave hydrogenated, corn syrupy goodness (or should I say badness?) every once in awhile (ok, maybe its just me), but don't give in! Reach for a nice, tasty, healthier snack instead. Something like a delicious fruit smoothie/juice, some fresh fruit or my favorite... carrot sticks with hummus, yum. So much more refreshing than processed foods!
10. Get some sleep!
It's not just about getting enough sleep, its also about making sure you don't stay up too late or end up waking up in the afternoon. Having spend unreasonable amounts of time as a full time student, this was always one of the hardest things for me to do. Then suddenly, my sleep patterns became normal and my life became so much less stressful, I was also much more happy! Making sure you get to bed early enough to get a full night's sleep also means prioritizing your schedule and making sure you get things done in a timely manner- which is awesome!
Twittermoms and Tropicana have teamed up to celebrate the small steps we each take toward big things, whether it be health, happiness, wellbeing or all of the above, the little things we do can make a huge impact! Bloggers were asked to post 10 things in their life that help them stay happy and healthy. To participate in this program or discussion be sure to visit the Twittermoms post here: http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/share-10-little-things-that.
1000 Little Things for Moms from Trop50
**I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Tropicana Trop50 blogging program to be eligible to win 6 free Juicy Rewards points and a $30 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.**
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Lesportsac "Snackville" and "Treehouse" prints
"Teeny Duffle" in Treehouse print, $88How cute are the new "Treehouse" and "Snackville" prints by current Lesportsac Artist in Residence Katharina Leuzinger?
I really dig the whole line, especially digging the Teeny and Jumbo duffles!
"Jumbo Duffle" in Snackville print, $128View the whole collection here: http://www.lesportsac.com/artistinresidence/katharina_leuzinger.html
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Charley Harper prints
My current obsession is works by the late late American Modernist artist Charley Harper. Harper's works are still available in the form of art prints via the Charlie Harper Prints website. Open edition lithographs are for sale in the range of $50 and limited edition serigraphs are also available (price varies). Here's a sampling of some of my favorite pieces:
So amazingly gorgeous!
Date Night with Steve Carell and Tina Fey opening this weekend
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of 20th Century Fox. All opinions are 100% mine.
"Date Night" staring Steve Carell and Tina Fey opens this weekend (Friday, April 9th, 2010) which is tomorrow! Tiny Fey is best known for her work on SNL and 30 Rock & Steve Carell for his starring roles in The Office and The 40 Year Old Virgin. I dig both these stars tremendously and I'm really excited to see how well their on screen chemistry works. This should be a really fun film for fans of either or both of these stars, I can't wait! The film was directed by Shawn Levy who has also brought us such family friendly films as Night at The Museum and Cheaper By The Dozen. The film is rated PG-13 so it should be somewhat "kid-friendly" and would make a great movie to go to on a date night this weekend!
In Date Night Steve and Tiny play a husband and wife couple who go on one of their weekly dinner dates night but soon find themselves in a major snafu due to a case of mistaken identity. What ensues is nothing short of an action/adventure plot with car chases and shootouts along the way.
There's a great review of the film on the New York Times website. The review applauds the film's depiction of the teamwork between the onscreen couple and its portrayal of the film as “a love letter to marriage” (Josh Klausner, the film's screenwriter refers to the film as such).
Watch the trailer for the Date Night Movie here:
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
etsy pick : Shup(P)'s handmade jewelry
Sydney based jewelry maker Shup(P) is designing & selling some awesomely cute handmade animal necklaces. Each necklace from her "Animal Farm" line sells for $28 on her etsy page. So, so cute!
From Shup(P)'s etsy page:
Inquisitive Dog-gies (*whistling notes* & *bone*?)
Wooden Hen and Chicken necklace ("Doodle-Doo" & "....!")
Horse -ing around (*whisper* [sold] & "whoops")
Elephants from the Circus ("Hiccup" [sold out] & "Long long ago..})
From Shup(P)'s etsy page:
"Here is my new range of ANIMAL FARM necklaces! Made of the most adorable little wooden animal blocks & plastic speech bubbles. I've always wondered what animals were thinking, or what they would say if we could understand them. Here's just my take on it. ;p"
Dancing Cats Necklace (1. "*sniff" & *Fish*? [sold])
Inquisitive Dog-gies (*whistling notes* & *bone*?)
Wooden Hen and Chicken necklace ("Doodle-Doo" & "....!")
Horse -ing around (*whisper* [sold] & "whoops")
Elephants from the Circus ("Hiccup" [sold out] & "Long long ago..})
Popstation Contest.. Win a Trip to NYC to record your own album!
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Popstation. All opinions are 100% mine.
PopStation is an awesome new website which allows registered users of the site to record vocal tracks and compete for an all expense paid, week long trip to New York City to record their very own album... you'll even get to bring along a guest and be given a your very own Production and A&R team to work with! After recording is finished, your album is mixed, goes through post production and album artwork is created. This is a fun and exciting way for amateur artists to gain first hand experience working in the music industry. This grand prize VIP album recording experience (aka "The Big Deal") is awarded once every 4 months to the #1 artist on the website.
How it works: PopStation releases original songs Monday – Thursday which are available on their online "Practice Room" for a period of 2 weeks. The practice rooms contain lyric sheets, backing tracks, videos and song demos to help you out. You then record your song (tutorials on this are can be found on the PopStation site) and post it to the website. Your song along with all the entries will be voted on by the Popstation audience for the chance to win the "Big Deal". Totally wish I had the vocal ability to pull this off!
Sign up on the PopStation website is free, so if you're an aspiring singer or current YouTube artist, you have nothing to lose!
every jacket from Fair Indigo $20 (today only - 4/7) !
For today only online clothing retailer Fair Indigo has placed all their men's and women's jackets on sale for $20! Fair Indigo specializes in high quality, fair trade clothing so this is really a great bargain. With the sale you can save up to 86%.... yowza!
My pick is the collarless textured jacket which normally retails for $99 (80% off). Pretty!
MoMA Feature: Modern Kitchen
Uplift Kettle, $88
Mark Naden, 2008
This tea kettle features heat-resistant non-slip natural cork handles. Simply lift the kettle by its handle and tilt, and the spout opens automatically. A whistle signals when the water is ready. Made of polished high-grade stainless steel with durable zinc finishes and cork accents.
This famous beaker-like vessel changed America's way of thinking about coffee-making. Invented by a chemist, it's been lauded for its simple, sleek design and its chemically correct method of brewing. Its hourglass-shaped flask is made entirely of glass, a chemically inert material that does not absorb odors or chemical residues.
With a charming design that evokes the half-pint milk carton, this molded clear-glass creamer puts a spin on an everyday item. Made of borosilicate glass. Dishwasher- and microwave-safe.
A perfect size for serving cereal, this flexible white silicone bowl has a playful design evoking splashed milk. Microwave- and dishwasher-safe.
Fun for kids and adults, this set allows you to create your own unique, twisting, bending straws. Use the rubber connector pieces to construct a variety of designs, including straws that allow you to drink from multiple glasses at the same time.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
So Delicious Coconut Almond Minis Review
I'm totally in love with Turtle Mountain's So Delicious Coconut Almond Minis. These chocolate dipped ice cream bars are encrusted generously with crunchy almond pieces and are hands down the best dairy free ice cream that I've ever had! I've been extremely curious to try out some of the new Turtle Mountain coconut milk products, and wow wow wow, these did not disappoint!
Rather than your average soy or rice milk ice cream base, these bars are made using a coconut milk base, resulting in a smoother texture that tastes much more clean and pure. While I do love So Delicious's "Purely Decadent" soy based ice creams (cherry nirvana and cookie dough are my favorites), I think the coconut milk is actually more agreeable on the palate. The ice cream has a delicate coconut flavor and the texture is smooth and light. The chocolate coating is thick and crunchy and the almonds add a wonderful flavor and textural component.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone, but especially those on a vegan or lactose free diet. The size is just perfect for a treat or dessert (not too large and not too small).
You can find out where Turtle Mountain products are sold near you using this convenient store locator : http://www.sodeliciousdairyfree.com/locator/locator.html
I'll be reviewing a couple more Turtle Mountain products on this blog and following up the reviews with a giveaway on the last review... three winners are going to be able to try out a Turtle Mountain product of their choice!
**I was furnished with a free product coupon from in order to redeem this product. I was not compensated monetarily for this post. All opinions expressed in this review are mine. **
Monday, April 5, 2010
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Jason Freeny's "Kitty Half" print
Ultrachrome Print
Printed on 100% cotton rag acid free Fine Art paper
13” X 15” with 1” border
Signed and Embossed
360° view of anatomical Hello Kitty:
Printed on 100% cotton rag acid free Fine Art paper
13” X 15” with 1” border
Signed and Embossed
360° view of anatomical Hello Kitty:
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