Art and Facts

Happy New...Last Year?

2012-01-11T20:22:00.000-06:00

(image via Bizarro Comics)

Happy New Year! We are finally living out the infamous year of 2012. Approximately 342 days left on earth. Then that's it. We're all toast.

Now that I have your attention, (let's admit, we are attracted to the dramatic and outrageous) I'm going to list out my 2012 predictions.

We live out our lives in a half-sleep state. We value our comfort zone. We like to play everything safe. Vote for the old familiar. Predict our outcomes and live accordingly. Yes, I'm including myself in these assumptions. For those of you who do not fall under this category, stop reading. You rock.

But everything is breaking down all around us. Bookstores and record stores are closing due to modern electronic conveniences. Our personal information is monitored and sold to greedy corporations all the time. Jobs and homes are lost daily due to corporate greed. Politicians are paid off by greedy corporations. Wars and societal unrest wage on due to corrupt politicians. Everything is bottle-necking. This is not the end of the world as we know it. This is the end of an era.

The 2012 revelation is up for interpretation. What is a revelation? One definition is bringing to light the knowledge, either positive or negative, which has generally been hidden from most of humanity. In other words, revelation means "to reveal."[1]

This year will be very revealing. Some things might be within our control and steerable to something more advantageous, and some things might be out of our control and end up disastrous. Either way, we need to open our eyes.

I began writing this post as a new year resolution for myself. But as I look around and listen carefully, I wish this for all of society. Return to the roots. Simplify the over-complicated life. Fight power and its toxic affects. Stay sharp by reading more often. Elect to learn something new each day. Strengthen creativity, as creativity is the best coping mechanism available to humanity. Most importantly, love and live life to the fullest. Love and positivity are systemic--which is much needed amidst the entropy.

Holiday Flakes Unite!

2011-12-24T22:01:00.000-06:00

Wishing you the best of all things in life this holiday season!

(photo copyright Art & Facts, our 2011 "Holiday Flake")

Funny Finds

2011-12-04T21:36:00.000-06:00

I really hate Christmas shopping. The crowds, the traffic, and strangely, the holidays somehow bring out the worst in people. My hubby and I managed avoid some of this mess by developing a strategy of heading out to the outdoor flea markets when the weather is crummy. No one is there and it gives you plenty of time to take it all in. Even if you are freezing your patootie off.

I ran across a couple of vintage items that I couldn't stop laughing at. My demented sense of humor doesn't help either. Count on vintage pieces to capture the odd.

1950s Campbell's Soup Magazine Advertisement

Husband: "What the hell has gotten into you? Canned soup? Are you getting burned out on the job here?"
Wife: "Here we go again. Never happy even though I feed your face every stinkin' day!"

1980s Record Album Cover

Guess they never thought about the literal meaning of this album. Enough said.

Vintage Mannequin Head Display

"It's probably best that I can't talk because I have the naughtiest thoughts running through my mind..."

The holidays can be rough sometimes. Set aside some time to enjoy what you love to do. Slow down and open your eyes amidst the rush. You never know what might make your day.

(First and second images via Art & Facts; Third image via Life's Cornucopia, who witnessed this unique treasure with me)

Classics Live Strong. How to Enrich What You Already Have.

2011-11-11T23:32:00.003-06:00

We all want to save money these days. When you buy, make sure the item has a classic style. Also, make sure it is built to last and you love it to death. The goal is to hang on to what you buy as long as possible. Blasphemy! (You might say.) We live in a disposable world! So many new gadgets and items are out there for our purchasing! We must stimulate the economy!

Well, doing so does not stimulate your wallet, and unfortunately stimulates another country's economy. Buying is natural to our developed world, just do so conservatively.

I've lived by a mantra for years in that "if you keep something long enough, it usually comes back in style." Also, you never know what kind of afterlife you can develop for the items you hang onto. Here, I've posted many DIY/Cheapskate Tips for items you already own, based off of some of the most popular textiles in fashion this year.

Houndstooth: Shall we thank Lady Gaga for kicking off the houndstooth craze this year?

(image via upscalehype.com)

Liven up your old chair with a new "old" classic print. This enlarged houndstooth pattern breathes fresh life that will beg for that derriere to sink into it.

(image via decorhacks.com)

Sick of your plain old fingernails? Well not anymore! You will want to show off your hands as much as possible with these easy adhesive nail covers.

(image via thenailshop.com)

I for one, am about as clumsy as one can get. The evidence is written all over my shoes. Scuff marks, scrapes and gashes are present everywhere. They are still good shoes though. What is a girl to do? Cover them up with houndstooth!

(image and online tutorial at lovemaegan.com)

Lace: Many fashion designers kicked off this classic textile on the runways this year...

(image via millionlooks.com)

Lace trim/ lace fabric/ doilies + fabric stiffener = alter your everyday items at home!

(image via homedit.com)

(image via shelterness.com)

The femininity that lace embodies will naturally create a balanced look when paired with that old, outdated masculine suit that you've had for years. Trim it out! Even though my example below is a $1500 Valentino suit, it is quite easy to carry out a similar look with a suit that you already possess.

(image via farfetch.com)

Is your teenager begging you to buy the same sunglasses that Rihanna was sporting? You can make your own by adhering lace onto safety goggles. A more classic and timeless option is to glue or fit lace over that extra pair of Jackie-O shades you have hiding in your drawer.

(image via styleguru.com)

(images via odettessunglasses.com)

Stripes: Doesn't matter what they say about what's in or what's out, stripes have been the shiz year after year for decades...

(image via oldfashionedpretty.com)

(image via girldir.com)

Make a small room more inviting by adding stripes to the wall(s). Stripes are foolproof--you can decoupage, paint, wallpaper, or tape the stripes on very easily.

(image via pinterest.com)

(image via laurau.com)

Have the winter doldrums? Believe it or not...the dull, dark, solid fall colors in your wardrobe can contribute to seasonal blues. Wear your striped pieces with another classic pattern, such as plaid or polka dots. Cheer up!

(image via stylesymmetry.com)

(image via bjonestyle.com)

It seems that the older appliances lack the good looks as compared to the newer appliance designs, yet they sure as heck are built to last. Hang onto the quality and change the looks yourself. Contact paper or appliance skins are a great alternative to changing the overall look of the tools in your kitchen.

(images via sticviews.com)

Roadside Surprises - Maui, HI

2011-10-27T21:27:00.001-05:00

Our honeymoon was amazing in all realms. Definitely one of those trips where you reach a crossroads when boarding the outbound plane back home.

We literally trekked around the entire island and tried out everything possible. No doubt the best and most memorable aspect of traveling is the cuisine and the folks you meet along the way. We ran across a couple of amazing surprises that I recommend to anyone making a trip to Maui.

Surfing Monkey Snack Shack, Kihei, Maui

Hailing from the UK, and owner of this little sidewalk stand, Paul was quite an admiration. We immediately found ourselves as regular patrons the three days we were staying in Kihei. He had the best authentic Hawaiian shaved ice menu in South Maui. Li hing powder on top? Ice cream on bottom? Or would you like a little pep? He also has espresso shaved ice beverages on the menu. My husband ordered the Shivery Mocha the second day we returned. I stole his drink. Not only were the goodies we ordered quite tasty, but the beach view is nearby and Paul (pictured above) is quite a charm to talk with.

Cafe Romantica, Hana, Maui

Cafe Romantica was simply one of the best places I've eaten in a long time. This husband-and-wife team grow their own herbs/veggies, cook and serve amazing four-star cuisine out of this roadside van (pictured above.) As we deliberated over the menu, ordered, and ate, we chatted with both Lori Lee and Hans. They are both extremely amazing people. Lori Lee is a spunky, outgoing and hilarious character, and hails from my husband's home town of San Antonio, TX. Hans is of British descent, born in India, and has had extensive culinary expertise in Sweden and beyond. Both of their powers combined have created gastronomic fusion of "Vegetayurvedic" Euro-Indian delights sealed with love. We ordered the English Cream of Split Pea soup, Veggie Burger Wellington (think european pastry style), South Indian Vegetable Curry, and a Hawaiian Apple Strudel for breakfast. The food soothes the soul with its ayurvedic properties. We chatted with Hans as the sun set and we finished our meal. As we drove off, I coined Hans as the most interesting man in the world.

Time to Slow Down (Finally)

2011-09-29T23:02:00.045-05:00

A lot more has happened since our wedding. I accepted a new job--which required that I live in another city--and we finally went on our honeymoon! Yes, in that order! Life really throws some curve balls, doesn't it?

While we are indeed newlyweds living torturously apart at long-distance, this is not something new for us. And moving away again was not something I willingly signed up for, I just needed a good job. That sure is hard to come by these days. Someday the stars will line up for us between love and career. As for the honeymoon--I'll have to divulge more in the next post. It was amazing.

With the quiet nights alone again, (mind you in an apartment without a television) it has very much freed up some time to get "it together". My first project consists of organizing my photos that have been unwillingly neglected for the past five years.

I stumbled across this photo that I completely forgot about, which was taken at around July of last year at sunset. We couldn't get over the visualization of a face forming in the sky. Proclamation: Absolutely no photo manipulation was rendered on this photo.

What do you think, should I say it's Jesus and sell it on eBay? My earnings from the high bids could allow my husband and I to live under one roof again!

Check out this hilarious blog as an homage to the occasional Jesus peek-a-boo.
Other inspiration:
eBay seller nabs $1500 for Jesus-like garage stain
Jesus pierogi sells for $1775 on eBay
And best yet...
Foodie miracles and their happy price tags

(photo via Art & Facts, copyrighted)

A Big..and Small...Bit of Inspiration

2011-08-16T23:16:00.001-05:00

I absolutely love short films. There is nothing like trying to satisfy all five elements of telling an interesting story--plot, character, theme, conflict, and setting--all within a short amount of time. To boot, short films jive with my extremely short attention span!

Another love...stop-motion animation. How creative yet patient must one be to create such a work of art? If you haven't heard of the talented studio Aardman, (Wallace & Grommet, Chicken Run, etc.) then you are in for a new treat. This group has several good ones under their belt.

I had to share with you this bit of creative inspiration during the mid-week slump. Without further adieu, I present to you a team called Sumo Science who have paired up with Aardman Studios to bring to you two challenges: The world's smallest stop-motion short animation and the world's largest stop-motion short animation.

Small bit of inspiration, "Dot"--

The making of "Dot"--

Large bit of inspiration, "Gulp"--

The making of "Gulp"--

ENJOY!

Our BIG Day: The Details

2011-07-10T18:52:00.004-05:00

This post follows up to my advice in keeping your wedding simple and affordable--and most of all, true to who you are as a couple. Most articles I've read advise to hoard away at least $25,000 for an average wedding. Blasphemy, I say!

Our wedding was budgeted for $5,000. We only went over budget about $800 and there was not any feeling of regret, cheapness or wrong-doing. Simple logistics will cut thousands out of your budget. Vesting the power of your own creativity and utilizing talented friends will help out quite a bit too.

Believe it or not, after we booked our venues, we had three months to seriously plan our wedding. I believe this time crunch is how we were able save money. What? How? Well, when you are restricted on time, you don't buy frivolous items and change your mind a zillion times. You are forced to make a decision and be resourceful with what you have. You also realize what unimportant details you can waste money on and what is really vital to make a wedding come together. I religiously used one of the budgeting spreadsheets that was part of my Apple computer program. This kept me in check with what money I had left to play with.

Dress:
I found my dress upon a serendipitous outing in a small town we stopped into last year. While browsing the boutique, my husband spotted this amazingly unique white tulle, handmade prom dress, circa 1940-50s. I tried it on and it fit. I purchased it for $190. It had several rips and tears, but I was able to devote time to give it a facelift and add a few ornate details to it. No need to spend $1,000+ for a new dress to wear only once. My husband found his vintage western-style suit at a thrift store for $7. (I know, not fair at all!) He had to drop about $100 to get it custom-tailored but again, still spent less than what a new suit or suit rental would cost.

Ceremony:
Our ceremony was officiated by a friend for free, in the morning, at the city's botanical garden. The gardens were cheap because it is a public space. Not one stranger bothered us. (I don't think too many folks wanted to wake up to stroll the gardens in full force around 10:00 am anyway.) It was a standing ceremony, thus, no need to rent chairs. We wrote our own vows and kept it short. We had a couple of talented friends play the ukulele and acoustic guitar. We did not have a wedding party. Every guest was part of our wedding. We asked that they bless the vintage lock and key that our rings were dangling on before we exchanged vows. Here we are unlocking the lock that belonged to my husband's great-grandfather.

Reception:
The reception was at a popular barbeque restaurant that was located lakeside. We had a completely private area of the restaurant and the grounds outside, for an extremely small fee. Tables and chairs were provided by the restaurant at no extra cost. We were able to rent white tablecloths for $5 per table through the restaurant. We were able to provide food and alcoholic beverages for our guests for approximately $26 per head. We managed this low cost because we chose only beer and wine, purchased the wine by the case and chose the most economical menu item. Since it was a lunch reception, we did not feel the burden to serve a heavy three-course meal. I believe that psychologically, most folks do not drink as much during the mid-day hours as they would at night. Cost savings right there, my friend.

Music:
We had three amazing bands play--two of which are friends, and the third band was a terrific bluegrass band we have befriended at an annual festival we volunteer at. Given the circumstance, we saved thousands of dollars on music.

Decor & Floral:
The decorations were of a simple and minimalist natural style. We saved thousands here too. Through the help of our friends, it all came together. I had purchased a mix of wildflowers and sunflowers at the grocery store and at a wholesale flower shop, totaling only $60. Since flowers can add up, they were watered down (so to speak) with feathers and rosemary and I also made about 60 terrariums of old Mason Jars and reused pasta jars. The terrariums were completely free--I used plants from our back yard and out-of-control succulents that propagate like crazy. The best of the floral bunch were used for my bouquet and my husband's boutonniere. One of our good friends patiently assembled them both around 2 am the night before the wedding.

Cake:
I can't get over how expensive tiered cake can be. I understand the art of cake-making and the cost is completely justified. We just couldn't afford it. We used a local cupcake shop and made our own cupcake towers and cake plates. Our cake topper only cost us $4--we purchased two little warbler birds at the craft store and dressed them up with scrap fabric. We wired them on a decorative twig and were topped on our little 6-inch cutting cake. Cupcakes bring out the nostalgia in most, so how can you go wrong? We saved around $1,000 by going the cupcake route.

Photographer:
Our photographer, Lynne Allan, was a gal I had befriended in my Photography 1 class a few years back. She was just starting out in the field, so she basically shot photos for our wedding at much lower percentage than a seasoned professional photographer. I am extremely pleased with her work! She documented our wedding better than any other work I've seen out there. She had a wonderful, personable angle, and documented our wedding perfectly. I recommend her to anyone looking for a photographer in the San Antonio and Austin area.

Getaway:
We did not need to rent a vehicle for our getaway. My husband is the king of vintage car collecting. We escaped in his 1961 VW Westfalia bus, all in its original glory. We have had several wonderful camping memories in this bus, so it was only natural to drive away in it. My husband also strapped on the vintage luggage for the added touch of the honeymooner look.

Love:
Love is the main reason behind a marriage. Let the wedding be simple. Let it be true. Let what will happen, happen. Don't fuss over the details. Most importantly, have a great time!!!

(all photos courtesy Lynne Allan Photography)

Relief, at last!

2011-06-01T23:47:00.001-05:00

I can tell you one thing that is worse than the Las Vegas time warp...wedding planning! The past six months came and went in the blink of an eye. I am now proud to say the BIG DAY happened with success on May 14th. There were many times when my (now) husband and I were wishing we would have escaped to a tiny island to do the deed. I found this imagery to be helpful for you gals and guys undergoing the wedding planning process.

Ironically, just after our wedding ended, my husband and I simultaneously agreed that the planning pain was completely worth it. We had a blast and both the ceremony and reception were meaningful and loving--not just between the both of us, but also between us and our friends and family.

Don't lose yourself in the planning. There are hundreds of magazines and websites that lure you into trends, services and glamour. Keep yourselves true to your heart when planning. Keep it simple and somewhat spontaneous. And most importantly, keep a low budget! It will mean so much more in the end. I will divulge our wedding details in the next post. Stay tuned...

Location, Location, Location!

2010-11-11T00:14:00.005-06:00

It's been almost a year now that my fiance and I have been racking our brains for the perfect location to tie the knot. Little did I realize that I'd be revisiting my statistical problem-solving skills to come up with a venue that is: a) about the two of us, b) beau-ti-ful, c) cheap!, d) close in proximity--unless we elope, e) encompasses our needs, and f) fewer rules.

There are many ideas we've run across that definitely meet criteria a) and b), however, may not satisfy c), d), e), or f). Or, the venue may satisfy criteria choices a), b), d), and e) but not so much item c) or f).

So here they are--my favorite options devastatingly unable to solve my equation. May they bring answers to yours.

Orchid Greenhouse Wedding at Shelldance Orchid Gardens; Pacifica, CA

(image via Green Wedding Shoes)

Texas and Pacific Railway Station terminal lobby; Ft. Worth, TX

(image via www.dallasnews.com)

Barr Mansion; Austin, TX

(image via Jessica Monnich)

Haiku Mill; Maui, HI

(image via Jana Morgan)

Vista West Ranch; Dripping Springs, TX

(image via Amelia Tarbet)

Hotel St. Cecilia; Austin, TX
(image via Trip Advisor)

On the Impulse

2010-08-22T18:40:00.002-05:00

Amidst the excitement of our engagement, I fell victim to an impulse buy. This dress is absolutely amazing, (why else would I have purchased it?) Let's just say my body type is not the right fit for this dress. Twiggy upper arms and torso are a no-no.

This Nataya Age of Love dress is up for grabs on Recycled Bride, which is a wonderful way of finding "the" dress at low cost. And may I add that Recycled Bride is a greener alternative to a one-time use new dress.

Here are some additional photos. I have found another vintage dress that I found at a more serendipitous moment--stay tuned. In the meantime, please visit the link below if you are interested!

Post for this dress is at http://www.recycledbride.com/listing/7159/nataya

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things...

2010-08-14T20:00:00.001-05:00

I was flipping through a 2009 issue of Vogue in which an article was featured on famous designers re-creating vintage fashion. I fell in love with their take on modernizing the styles while retaining the details of yesteryear's clothing. I found them absolutely inspiring and must be shared!

The suit is c-l-a-s-s-i-c! I'm in love with the stitching and detailed edging.

What I love most about vintage fashion is the class. There's not one ounce of slop, tomboy, or mess in this outfit.

When in doubt, go neutral.

Absolutely stunning.

If I had they ability (and the money) to make things happen my way, one of these dresses would be my wedding dress...

If you remember my nostalgic post about vintage hats, this is a perfect example of the dying art of dressing. Never do you see vintage hats, gloves and brooches on a modern-day woman. (Sigh)

This ensemble was interesting from the standpoint of color. Note the black suits paired with ivory tights and brown ankle boots. Note taken.

Dressing for A Lot Less, Pt Deaux

2010-07-31T13:30:00.002-05:00

Another culprit of lesser practicality presented itself while I was flipping through a Victoria's Secret catalog: The 'Deconstructed Tunic.'

Ladies. I have a much better idea. When it's that lovely time of the month and you feel ______ (insert emotion/adverb here), channel this energy. Then, lay flat one of your comfy tunic shirts and stab it incessantly with a knife or scissors...Saves you $55!

Dressing for A Lot Less

2010-07-03T20:35:00.002-05:00

I seem to get at least ten different catalogs per month. Out of all ten catalogs, I order from one the most. The others I've probably ordered an item once or not at all. (How do they seem to find me?)

Before I banish them to the recycling bin, I torture myself. "I wish I could afford this gorgeous top", or "someday I'll buy that classic leather bag." Then, comes the "I can't justify purchasing this for what it costs" bit. What a waste to send me these printed catalogs, only to be looked through just once.

One of these culprit retailers happens to be J. Crew. I love this company and their style is classic. I enjoy looking through their catalog because most of all, I think their styling is fantastic. But looking through their most recent catalog had me gasp at some of the outfits and their costs.

This was the cover outfit. Cute. I looked at the item details and added each piece altogether. $700. Are you kidding me? It looked artistic and relaxed but this kind of look should never cost that much. I have a better idea. Go to your local thrift store and look for a cargo jacket, usually at a cost of $7. These jackets were popular back in the 1990s. Buy a pair of jeans while you're there for $5, tie them on the rear bumper of your car and drive for about 30 miles with them dragging behind. Cut them off and roll it up. And the undershirt? Buy a plain white shirt at your favorite cheap haunt, and hand paint your stripes with black fabric paint. Look for your favorite heels somewhere in the back of your closet that might be gathering dust. Same with the bag. All for a total cost of no more than $25.

This outfit also has that funky artistic vibe that I love so much. This outfit also added up to $360. Again, I know I could go to my local thrift store and find a white skirt for around $5. Do you remember how to tie-dye from middle school art class? Just add rubber bands and dip parts of the skirt into differing colors of dye. Make your kids do it since they might be hounding you for something to do. A denim shirt is commonplace. My bet is that you could find one for less than $20. Pair the two items up with one of your bulky bib necklaces and some brown boots and you've got the look for around $25! And it may have even brought your family closer together!

Time Warp Poem

2010-06-07T19:16:00.000-05:00

Four months truly came and went--
I thought my blogging days were spent.
Two brothers married within a month apart--
Ready for my own? I haven't yet the heart.

I continue to dream and crave to write--
But life's obstacles sure did put up a fight.
My dog fell ill, a week later ate a plastic bit--
My creativity is strong, but my wallet is unfit.

Here I return with this poetic intermission--
In an attempt to continue throughout my transition.
Where do I begin after all of this time?
(Fill in the blank here)

Textural Edification

2010-02-25T22:42:00.001-06:00

Been poking around some of my photos I've taken within the past year. Thought these seemingly insignificant photos made a great assemblage of the texture that surrounds us. Enjoy!

Mission Steps, San Antonio, TX

Side of building, Main Street, Fredericksburg, TX

Graffiti art, downtown Austin, TX

Historic tower, Baltimore, MD

Exterior wall of decrepit barn, Somerset, TX
(all photos via Art & Facts, copyright)

How Sweet It Is

2010-02-14T22:53:00.001-06:00

Experimented with a new cookie recipe today. After all, it is Valentine's Day. The dough didn't turn out to be quite the consistency as I was expecting, but I made the best of it!

Love Worms

An ode to the significant guy: VW Beetle towing a teardrop trailer...and a random buffalo in the way of its path

Yum.

Up in the Air

2010-02-01T23:53:00.008-06:00

Significant guy and I have been working on remodeling our kitchen for quite some time. Coming up on two years of construction, to be exact. You're in it for the long haul when doing everything yourself, and that's a fact.

We have made much headway, and now are down to the final build-out and decor. Here's where I become truly indecisive. We live a beautiful late '20s/early '30s Moorish-design stucco home and very much desire to continue a similar style into our kitchen.

Exterior of our home (minus the latest trim work & landscaping)

Exterior entrance (photo via the amazing "London Calling." See her blog post here.)

We knocked out the wall to the right to open the kitchen up to the living and dining area. Significant guy (pictured here) has vaulted the ceiling and installed recessed lighting where the original portion of the ceiling was. We scored this amazing Arts & Crafts-style window at a building re-supply store. The walls will be painted Restoration Hardware's "Stone" paint color.

I'm enlisting help from all of you amazing minds out there on some differing backsplash styles I've been deliberating over.

White subway tile has been a great friend of ours for years and is fairly inexpensive and above all--timeless. I am in love with this soft green glass and cracked ceramic subway tile as seen here with Country Living.

Although modern in nature, and more of a devil's advocate choice, this geometric glass tile catches light and draws the eye by way of uniqueness. I could see this tile in white or green in our kitchen, followed by a chocolate-stained grout. (photo via www.decodir.com)

And for a more organic spin to the previous idea, I have always loved the pebbled backsplash. And what goes better with "stone" paint color than...stones? (Image via www.islandstone.com)

I can't seem to get penny tile out of my head. Couldn't find an exact example in action, but think both photos above, combined along with black grout. I love the illusion of depth. (Image via www.flickr.com/photos/peachheights & www.mosaictilesupplies.com)

We are leaning more toward this idea by duplicating this look. Inexpensive ceramic square tiles balance pricey Art Nouveau hand-painted tiles to achieve this look. This is my favorite by far. (Image via www.flickr.com/photos/samjudson)

All over the map and up in the air. What's your opinion?

Yes to the Dress

2010-01-25T23:11:00.008-06:00

To elaborate on my previous post...I'm getting hitched! Yup, ball and chain. Husband and wife. Significant guy proposed in the most beautiful way on New Year's Eve...

I've never had 'The Big Day' planned out. I never imaged getting married for all that mattered. So this is new territory to me. It's kinda fun. Especially when it comes to the attire.

Given that new wedding dresses cost an upwards of $500 and tend to look cheap and unimaginative, I've decided to pull together two used thrift store/ eBay purchases myself. One-of-a-kind, resourceful, AND cheap! This is the start of Cheapskate Tip #4 ladies and gentlemen! Let the ideas flow!

In looking for some inspiration, I've tracked across some of these amazing designs. I heart these designers. They are my heroes and then some...

St. Vincent de Paul's Discarded to Divine's designers have shared some amazing ideas for wedding dress reconstruction. This dress is made completely of denim that was bleached white and assembled into this amazing detailed Victorian silhouette.

Again, another Discarded to Divine designer created a very unique bustle out of vintage linen handkerchiefs. To learn more and to see other amazing clothing re-builds from the Discarded to Divine fundraising and awareness movement, click here. (both images above via www.flickr.com, user St. Vincent de Paul Society San Francisco.)

Janay A Handmade's custom wedding dresses are drool-worthy. This dress had me at hello with this classically perfect design. Can't get any better than that. (image via janay-a.com)

The base dress I will be using is a halter-style cut. Designer Jenny Packham's halter dresses are the almighty being of halter cuts. (images via google.com images & www.jennypackham.com)

And last but not least, this bride looked flippin' fantastic wearing this English Dept's custom-made vintage inspired gown, from head to toe. (image via www.theenglishdept.com)

Stay tuned for the evolving dress under construction.

Happy Belated New Year

2010-01-13T22:21:00.001-06:00

Here we are already. Marching forthright into a new decade...

This holiday season flashed by so quickly. In a matter of a few weeks came four birthdays, two deaths, one engagement...

Whew.

(Image via Lee Burridge flyer)

Happy Holidays

2009-12-26T21:45:00.008-06:00

Happiest of holidays to all people and critters alike...

(Ziggy, Tobie and Junie getting in the holiday mood)

A Reason to Celebrate

2009-12-19T01:38:00.001-06:00

I'm typically not one to get too much into the holiday season. What starts as a simple idea of getting together with family, turns into an endless stressful four-week search for a useful gift. That's where I've been lately. Out and about.

But when the frantic shopping is over, or it is just plain decided not to overexert the spending this year, the holiday season is still very special.

The sun sets early, the temperatures are cold, and more importantly, most of us are lucky to be granted holiday time from work to spend quality time with loved ones. I find the basis of this time a pagan-like tradition. It's a time to be close to the organic. Time to visit, time to release, maybe even time to reflect and face the fears. And it's time to bring nature inside the home--to be close to Mother Earth.

This post is a homage to bringing the outside, inside. I wish there were more time in the day to make any one of these decorations for my home.

Cranberry beaded wreath getting some reflection time. (image via www.marthastewart.com)

You can eat them AND decorate with them. The almighty orange. (image via www.goodhousekeeping.com)

Those shells found on the beach can stretch beyond that aquatic themed bathroom! (image via www.coastalliving.com)

Use greenery you already have by combining existing potted succulents with fall leaves and flowers. (image via www.apartmenttherapy.com)

Woodsy pinecones make a fun and lighthearted fireplace friend. (image via www.countryliving.com)

Don't let that cake stand gather dust. Make use of it with dried flowers from the garden, such as yarrow, pictured here. (image via www.countryliving.com)

Quick Fix for a Quick Season

2009-12-08T00:24:00.002-06:00

Short on time? Money flying out your door this holiday season? Still haven't put up the holiday decor? Tired of the same old look year by year? What to do?

Bet you are glad to hear that it's time for another Cheapskate Tip!

The significant guy and I like to keep things pretty simple for the holidays. There's enough to worry about. He's managed to hang onto a potpourri of vintage ornaments and I've managed to keep a small, potted evergreen tree alive for a few years. I simply wanted to add some color and humor to it this year.

Given that approximately 28% of busy Americans shop online for the holidays, including myself, I thought it was best to utilize the cardboard shipping boxes as a foundation to making some ornaments. I also had hoarded for years this goofy Loteria paper. Your variation could be comprised of millions of possibilities.

The corrugation inside the cardboard panels evokes a readymade pattern and texture on the sides. Just add color.

Grab the glue stick and paste away. How you hang and display your final ornament will depend on what materials you decide to utilize. I call our tree the 'Charlie Brown Christmas Tree.'

(image via Charles M. Schulz)

It was best not to attach hangers to these ornaments and hang them. Instead, the Loteria ornaments were rested atop of sprigs and branches. We added some of the lightweight vintage ornaments we already had onto the tree, and the heavier vintage ornaments were displayed on the table around the base of the tree.

In just a couple of hours, I was in the mood for the holidays. Therapeutically ready, nonetheless.

Coupling Fashion Methods

2009-11-23T20:09:00.004-06:00

Once upon a time, roughly thirteen years ago, I lived in Finland for about one month. I loved the Finns' sense of humor, their views of friends and family as priority, and their inclination toward the unusual...especially in fashion. I remember walking around in Helsinki in awe with the "anything goes" mentality. No fashion rules. And having no fashion rules allows creativity. It wasn't until 2006 that I discovered Hel Looks. Think Satorialist and Fruits, but documented strictly in Finland.

I couldn't help but take interest in the lovebirds on Hel Looks. The guy/gal pairings were different...yet similar. Couples in love, Finnish style. Does fashion play a role in the laws of attraction?

(All images via www.hel-looks.com)

What's Their Motif?

2009-11-11T00:39:00.006-06:00

My significant guy and I were galavanting around Austin, TX recently where some vacant buildings that were once bare had seen a reawakening by the use of stencil art decoupaged to the exterior.

(images via Art & Facts)

Stencil grafitti (non gang-related )is a huge hit in my book--I enjoy gawking at stencil art as much I do with architecture while traveling. It is exterior, outdoor art. Most of it has immense meaning behind it. Street stencil art has been around since the late 1960s as a means of social activism and protesting....It is eye-catching and it reaches a pretty large audience. Quite effective.

I'd love to have all four of Tristan Manco's books sitting atop of my coffee table someday. Utter inspiration. It got me thinking about pulling the street art into interior decorating. Looks like others have beat me to it! Here are some ideas that are reminiscent of street stencil graffiti, though not rampant.

Ape Stencil incorporated onto a hallway wall from the Ed Roth collection (image via www.apartmenttherapy.com)

The amazing UK-based Stencil Library trio has shared some of their own work (image via http://designinspiration.typepad.com)

Comparable to the stencil-printed decoupage graffiti, Lark homeowners had the same idea with combining differing patterns of wallpaper (image via www.apartmenttherapy.com)

Bringing the "street" inside the home lightens the mood and brings a little humor into your life. I'm already thinking up new methods for my home...

Spooky!

2009-10-30T20:45:00.003-06:00

Happy Halloween everyone!

Courtesy of the neighborhood flavor.

Different Strokes, Different Jokes

2009-10-22T20:30:00.014-05:00

I recently moved from Austin, TX to San Antonio, TX. Only an hour by distance, but worlds away by the vibe. I thought the best way to illustrate the slight differences were by way of fashion styling. Obviously Fall 2009 has it in big for shiny satin fabrics, bib necklaces, layered chains, detailed belts and pleated, ruched clothing. Although both cities have their own unique wonderful offerings, both are also undergoing unusual growing pains. I couldn't help but poke fun at both.

Austin: "Nice loft. What do you do for a living to afford this kind of lifestyle?"

San Antonio: "If I hold out my purse one direction, it will provide a counter-balance to my sexy flamingo stance."

Austin: "You want to dance with me? I know I'm hot, but I'll look flattered."

San Antonio: "It's a tough job as a secretary, but if I dress right, my boss just might take me out for some shots of Stolichnaya."

Austin: "I think about so many things going on in this world that I forget who I am."

San Antonio: "I have a younger 'hippie' sister who lives in Austin who just doesn't know who she is. At least I know that if I look like a bejeweled Pomeranian, I'll woo everyone at tonight's social soiree."

Show me your city's local magazine fashion shots. Better yet...show them to me with your own sarcastic jokes.
(images via Tribeza & SA Woman magazines)

Pondering the Ensemble

2009-10-14T21:45:00.029-05:00

Each year, we contemplate the ensemble for Halloween. Having the opportunity to dress up like someone or something else (with societal approval) gives us a giddy feeling. I'd actually like to dress up on a random day besides Halloween and see the reactions of others. That would be a separate experiment...

After Halloween is said and done, I strangely find that when returning home, I am more than happy to peel out of the costume and return to myself. We seem to look forward to being someone else, only to find that we appreciate who we are after the change was made. Maybe its the temporary feeling of "checking out" that appeals to us so much.

That said, I've been obsessing with the costume choice for this year. In years past, I've always made my own costumes. I hit the thrift stores, search the internet, and re-visit my past memories for that certain ah-ha inspiration.

I found these little costumes on the internet that had me giggling all night. There's something about kids dressed as food that I can't resist.

Sushi and sashimi anyone? (image via marthastewart.com)

I'd like some shrimp on the side, please (image via marthastewart.com)

A cupcake for dessert will satisfy that sweet tooth! (image via craftster.org)

Can't wait until breakfast to devour those waffles! (image via marthastewart.com)

Back off Hoser!

2009-09-30T21:07:00.008-05:00

The unruly garden hose. Has a mind of its own. Coil it up on the ground after use and it seems to sprawl across your yard, into your sidewalk, and wrap around the dog. Many retailers offer Hose Holders or Hose Containers, but for a pretty high price just to keep a hose contained.

This dilemma has inspired me to take on Cheapskate Tip #2--a low-cost or free alternative to the norm. We just happened to have this old wheelbarrow, which my significant guy picked up for free near a dumpster.

Anything can be used to make a hose container. When out and about, look for items that are deemed trash by someone else, that would effectively work. It might add more charm to your garden than the cookie-cutter designs on the shelves. Once you find that special something...that hoser better back off.
(first image via www.keetsa.com)

Fashion Renewed

2009-09-23T21:21:00.028-05:00

Last week's Project Runway continues to inspire my work. The daring assignment to construct clothing out of newspaper was no doubt challenging, yet some of the contestants created outright wearable and beautiful clothing.

Besides the paper dolls that we gals once played with during our juvenile days, paper clothing made its debut during the mid-1960s and faded away. Great way to think outside the box, but not very long-lasting, eco-friendly, nor practical.

The current fashion market is not all that different. All of the clothing traded around the world is made so cheaply, that the ill effects stem into our environment and local economies (not to mention poor working conditions for most). Environmental Health Perspectives illustrates a perfect picture of fashion industry's results.

Upcycled Jewelry 's Electronic Circuit Board Earrings

Recycled Plastic Trashion Biker Jacket by Thimblescratch

Glamarita 's Upcycled Necktie Ballgown

There are many local U.S. artists making gorgeous clothing out of recycled materials. Please consider buying handmade, or vintage/used whenever possible. In a world that snowballs so quickly, buying used or handmade just might help out everyone.
(Paper doll image via www.bromer.com. Other images via www.etsy.com)

Revivify!

2009-09-15T22:14:00.011-05:00

Yes. Revivify is a word. And that's exactly how I feel about things right now. Significant guy and I flew north last week for a breather from the 50+ days of over 100-degree weather in Texas. I believe our sunken and sullen skin perked up in the drier and cooler mid-west weather of Montana.

I admit I'm a travel addict. Not only do you revivify your life, per se, but it gives you the opportunity to observe the environment and things around you in a new light--as it is outside of your daily mundane realm. Alright, enough of my deep thoughts.

While accruing around 1K miles across the state, we couldn't help but notice the deserted remnants of the pre- and post-war era along the roads and highways of Montana. History frozen in time. Literally, year after year.

Nature Versus Nurture

2009-09-02T18:42:00.016-05:00

Take person X and person Y and blend together...numerous possibilities arise. The end product could either be left to nature, or could be controlled entirely by the parental entity:

NATURE-

NURTURE-

NATURE & NURTURE-

(all photos via Art & Facts, copyright)

What a Long, Strange Trip it's Been

2009-08-25T23:49:00.011-05:00

The vintage Airstream. The significant guy and I have been pining for one for over a year now. We finally found a 1965 Airstream Tradewind, 24' long and in great shape. It was 236 miles from our home and we enlisted a friend to help us get it.

Our trip went a little something like this...

SAT-

1:00 pm - Friend off of work. Get clothing, tools and dog loaded into the car.

2:00 pm - Met friend at his house and all items, including dog have been transferred to friend's truck. Sudden feeling of bringing dog a bad idea.

2:30 pm - Drop off dog back at the house. Meet back at friend's house.

3:30 pm - Leave town. Hit traffic and multiple lights at outskirts.

5:00 pm - Eat lunch (finally)

8:45 pm - Arrive at destination. Too dark to look at the Airstream. Will try tomorrow morning. Park truck. Battery is running very low. Difficult to restart.

10:00 pm - Eat dinner and have some brews at friend #2's house.

SUN-

2:00 am - Sleeping soudly. Friend #2's cat jumps on face. 30 minutes later, cat runs over body. 30 minutes later, jumps on face. 1 hour later, parakeets begin to chirp and play with bell-like toys. Dog licks shoulder. Repeat often, alternating critters. All night.

9:30 am - Tired. Want to strangle all of friend #2's animals.

11:30 am - Finally make it out to where the Airstream is located. Love it, and buy it. Discover that a wire adapter is needed for the electrical portion of the hitch.

12:00 pm - Arrive at parts store and find parts needed. Decide to get friend #1's truck battery tested. Alternator is shoddy. Buy new alternator.

1:00 pm - Back at Airstream. Begin to replace alternator. Discover the wrong alternator part was sold to us. Cannot get the old alternator back into engine. Call friend #2 to meet us and give us a ride back to the parts store.

2:30 pm - Friend #2 arrives and takes us to the parts store. Receive the correct alternator.

3:00 pm - Back at truck and Airstream. Significant guy and friend #1 perform amazing tactics in changing out alternator and figuring out wiring issues with Airstream hookup. Stomachs growling. Strong sun, 102 degrees outside.

5:00 pm - Finally ready to hit the road. En route on the interstate, the skylight cover flies off the Airstream. Oh well.

6:30 pm - Stop in po-dunksville to eat. Food takes 45 minutes to "cook". (Do they kill the cow on the spot around here?)

8:00 pm - Back on the road. Stop 30 minutes later, some parts on Airstream are flying around loosely. Stop to affix loose parts back to Airstream. Stop again. Strange knocking noise coming from the wheel shaft. Oh well.

9:15 pm - Smell burning oil. Stop again to check friend #1's truck engine. Nothing unusual spotted. Hit the road.

11:00 pm - Stop by parent's house to drop off Airstream. Have a beer and converse. Wish we were home.

12:00 am - Depart and trudge on toward home. About 15 minutes into the drive, rear tail lights on truck go out. Then dash lights go out. Stop on side of road to fix the fuses. Off again.

2:30 am - Arrive home. Dirty, must shower. Pass out...

It's true...Good things don't come easy. Glad we didn't bring the dog.

Hats Off to You

2009-08-16T22:52:00.009-05:00

Hats were once wearable art forms here today, gone tomorrow. They came in many shapes, sizes, styles and colors back in the day. But before they were merely wearable art, hats were indications of status and protected one from the elements. Women were required to wear them as a means of looking "appropriately dressed." When I don my vintage hats nowadays, I receive very strange looks.

What happened to these beautiful creatures? They are rarely if not ever seen adorned atop of a person's head. I have found myself collecting these lost art forms--secretly wishing that we have a resurgence in hat fashion, where it is an acceptable fashion accessory. Check out the latest unique revivals with Bonnie's Knitting, Katarina Couture, Creations by Gail, and Hey Sailor! Hats.

A Comparative Study on Boxes

2009-08-06T23:37:00.010-05:00

We as a society are inclined to boxes. We live in a stationary box. We transport ourselves to work in a box on wheels, in order to pay for the stationary box. We spend most of our days at work in a mini box amongst other similar looking mini boxes--all encompassed inside of a large box. We get stuck in a routine, and as a result, we tend to think inside the box.

Unfortunately, we identify ourselves entirely too much on these boxes. The boxes become who we are. It's our nature. And I can't stop myself from sharing how two of our most commonly used boxes pair up. To be continued...

Dusty 1970s Buick hiding in the neighboring woods.

Yellow Zebra 1970s Volkswagen Thing resting at its 1930s bungalow.

Taking the Off-Fence

2009-07-27T23:14:00.007-05:00

We all need space--creating our distance and privacy from others in this small urban world. What better to divide but with a fence. But not just your ordinary fence. (If I see another white picket fence, I'm going to ram my car into it.) It's time to grow past the standard epitome of the "American Dream" and think up some new ways of dividing and conquering. These two designs that I passed by recently are two great examples of using materials that are re-used. One is natural and the other manmade.

This is one of my favorite designs. Simply stack rocks in between parallel-mounted hogwire fencing. Instant privacy.

With the amount of consuming and producing that we create, what happens to the shells or skeletons of sheet metal that pieces and parts are torch-cut from? This is a terrific method of re-use while keeping a line drawn on what's yours.

The Twofer One Deal

2009-07-16T17:37:00.011-05:00

Ideas are one of those unexplainable and invisible fields that come to us from nowhere. We love the thought of new and creative methods in going about our lives. Not to say that bad ideas don't exist, but about 98 % of ideas appear to be terrific thoughts, right off the bat.

When combining my ideas with my instinctive ability to save money, I consider myself thrifty. Some may say I could be a cheapskate. Though a term with negative connotation, I believe a cheapskate is a good quality, especially when times are tough. (Ah-hem.)

This post starts off the first of my series of Cheapskate Tips. These are tried and true tips that cost very little--or free--and are as good as the real deal.

Cheapskate Tip #1: Hit up your local thrift store at least once per week. Many corporate retail outlets donate items that don't sell on their "Sale" racks. These donations of brand new clothing is a tax write-off deluxe. Take advantage of this inventory.

I found this Express skirt that apparently was on sale for $64.99 according to the tag that was on it at the retail store. Cheap right? The Goodwill tag had a price of $2.99. The upper portion of the skirt had a terrific smocked structure and design. It dawned on me that it would make a terrific strapless summer dress. Just added a belt to cinch in the waist. All in all, a great-looking summer outfit all for the price of $2.99 plus tax! When you feel great, spend this little, and your money spent goes toward a cause, there is not a better feeling out there.

The Little Garden That Couldn't

2009-07-09T00:28:00.010-05:00

After much research and thought, I have decided to make the first giant step toward self-sufficiency. Maintaining a garden of our own is not only rewarding, but we would be free of pesticides, ethylene gas, radiation and wax. My significant guy built the 8'X4' raised bed of reclaimed and new lumber, metal posts and corrugated sheet metal. Shortly after everything sprouted and well on their way, Central Texas started reaching triple-digit temps, and has been for approximately 15 days straight, combined with a deficit of 4" in rainfall. Everything is getting fried. These puppies don't even want to think about blooming. Forget experiencing the fruits (er, vegetables) of our labor.
Outside of the raised garden bed, lies the Viva Italia tomato variety, however, I have experienced all of the end products turning out like this--termed as "blossom end rot." The soil is the tall tale sign: salt and/or calcium imbalance, or not the right amount of moisture or temperature range. These tomatoes aren't any larger than 1" in diameter! For shame...
Combine rookie gardening with mother nature and voila!...you get the new and improved "Viva Italia Tittymato" variety. Tell me about your gardening mishaps.

Simulation of Flora and Architecture

2009-07-01T22:32:00.019-05:00

There is something undeniable in choosing plants that are compatible with your home. It's a type of reinforcement. Maybe even an unconscious choice with some. Like peanut butter 'n jelly, nonetheless...

Keeping the Chaos Organized

2009-06-22T17:41:00.038-05:00

Literary critic and essayist George Bernard Shaw was quoted to have said, "Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself."

Wow. Are we going about things all wrong here? I've been plagued with "finding" myself my whole life. What seemed like proactivity to me was in reality, passivity. I've seen career counselors, taken all of the personality tests, and stared at the mirror demanding that I get with the program. Nothing. I love too many things!

So here I sit, writing out my first blog. I will repeat this Shaw mantra to myself and get things in order. Well, maybe just organize the chaos.

This blog is a project in "creating myself." It will ascertain my passions. It will provide an outlet. It will be a humorous comic illustrating the joining of two separate worlds by cohabitation. Best of all, it will share with you all the many things in the world that bring us joy. And that is what life is about. If we didn't take joy in the little things and share them with others, what else is there?

So. To start, I share a little artifact that was of some enlightenment. Now, I'm normally not the type to stand around in the 'self help' section of the bookstore, but this book by Barbara Sher finally helped me to realize my career conundrums. I'm a scanner and there's nothing wrong with that! Sher illustrates that scanners were typically the prime rib of society until the 1950s--when the need for specialized trades became the sirloin of the future, leaving scanners as the salami of society. But salami is truly great. Recommended for other folks who are feeling the career conundrums.

(Image courtesy of www.24-7designheaven.com)