To: Be

Happy 10 Months Ali Pie

2011-05-16T10:27:00.002-04:00

10 months Today!

Baby girl, you are still carrying your adorable plump rolls. I kiss your cheeks at a minimum 500 times a day.

you've almost mastered climbing
you are clapping happily
you sing song babble "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" (your favorite)
you love screaming and squealing with your big sister
you are walking around tables
you smile at every stranger you see and wave, bat your eyes, and flirt.
you like to smooch your baby friends
you absolutely love to see dogs
when you are really happy to see us you bite our shoulders and flap your arms and kick your legs!

We are so lucky to have you in this family! You are absolutely healing in the amount of sweetness you ooze. I really can't believe you are as happy as you are all of the time!! It's contagious!!

Today:

2011-05-11T20:54:00.000-04:00

* I dyed my hair red.der brown (auburn)

* We have a cleaning lady named Ruby

* Ruby used Murphy's Oils soap on our floors and the house smells so clean and yummy

* I am grateful for Ruby. I am grateful for any help around the house. I am grateful for nice people.

* My hair dresser noticed I was frail and so have I. Nervousness is not a diet I recommend. Thankfully, I am getting less anxious, but I am trying to beef up again. Hence, steak dinner last night, frequent DQ stops, and the insurgence of regular soda consumption. I am eating a lot more fruits and nuts too (I'm not going to go down the crap shoot).

*I've had red wine the past two nights 1. because I don't like to waste wine 2. and most importantly it calms me down. I only have 1-1 1/2 cups. It's good for your heart, and I don't start drinking until right before or after the little ones go to bed.

*I can't stop thinking about my thumb and index finger tremors, spasms, and twitches (not all together, it happens sporadically). I feel like I have a tiny electric current between my fingers that won't settle down, it's unnerving to be punny about it. I get an EMG in a couple weeks and I'm not excited about needle prodding, but I hope the data shows that it's something benign. I just want the green light to relax, ya know?

* Not to mention my chronic knee pain, iyiyi. Why do I Feel so old at 29?

Enjoy Your Weekend!

2011-05-06T15:16:00.001-04:00

My pride and my joy

My joy and my pride

This weekend is Mother's Day. I'm so glad we "collective mothers" have a day! We surely deserve the recognition, but we know that we get it everyday with our childrens' hugs and kisses that surprise and intercept the sourest of moods and make us all better again. I would give every last drop of life for my babies :) Give your mom a Hug and tell her again how much she means to you!

Family Space

2011-05-03T08:37:00.005-04:00

Taken at The Clay Center for Arts and Sciences

I've been on this mission (not space, ha ha), but mission to get out and get my mind on other things by constantly being active outside of the home. Distraction? Yes, but I think eventually, with the help of my current medicaton of course, and the constant "on the go," I will eventually snap out of my gloomy worry wort syndrome and get into life again. Being proactive is being preventitive. Being happy is being a better mom, and that is most important.

Zoloft

2011-05-01T21:22:00.004-04:00

Well, I'm going on my 4th day on Zoloft, and despite some quirky head buzzing and slight insomnia the first couple of days, I am actually starting to feel a luxurious wash of calm already. I can tell I'm more relaxed. I seem to be gliding more peacefully instead of catching every fray in the carpet (sounds like I'm comparing myself to a vacuum). Definitely am more sedated, but just enough, not zombie like, as I have felt on other anti-depressants. This was something that I was in desperate need of. I am way too high strung and spastic, even if I have a placid front, I am a circus inside. I am hopeful.

I also got many inches taken off my hair. I'm one of those emotional hair cutters. Back to my homeostasis: choppy bob to the chin.

A New Start

2011-04-28T08:13:00.005-04:00

(a personal favorite)

I am starting Zoloft today. It's a commitment to make. I know the adjustment period is sometimes rocky, but I believe I need some supplemental adjustments to my brain chemistry. I want to operate out of a place of balance and hopefully this will help my soul feel like the {above} cheesy photograph and an Indigo Girl's song :)

I am also feeling a revelation lately, that I want to share more of my personal story. I don't want to delve into my children's or husband's -- that is theirs to share, if they want, but I believe the more you share of yourself, the more people know you, and the more people know you, the more they start to care about you. I can just meet someone and instantly they have taken a small place in my heart and I begin to think of them. I think about so many people everyday and I think that it's so similiar, if not the same, as praying for good (God) to be with them.

On a lighter note...SHOES!

2011-04-27T10:56:00.005-04:00

American Eagle Suede Ballet Flat

In my years of buying flats, I have found that if you want a pretty flat that will undoubtedly fit you and are comftorable, then you go with the elastic banding. I find the color of these beauties refreshing, and honestly believe that any shade of green is nuetral :) These are currently under American Eagle's clearance section and for being 100% leather, these are a great find! These are a year round favorite. They have multiple colors available, including the staple black.

a bit personal. a bit dark. a lot real.

2011-04-26T20:56:00.005-04:00

[W]herever I sat - on the deck of a ship or at a street café in Paris or Bangkok - I would be sitting under the same glass bell jar, stewing in my own sour air. ~Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar, Chapter 15

How did I know that someday - at college, in Europe, somewhere, anywhere - the bell jar, with its stifling distortions, wouldn't descend again? ~Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar, Chapter 20

I took a deep breath and listened to the old bray of my heart: I am, I am, I am. ~Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar, Chapter 20

I think about the Bell Jar allusion all too much anymore. The warped edges of a clear glass, not portraying truth. The trapped sensation of the bubble that follows you like your driving it around. The absolute stank that fogs up the already distorted windows. And the strange comfort of being miserable in your cocoon--it's a negative home, but it's your home. A home is where you rest, or is it where you stay unrested? Rather, is it where you decide to live (miserable or happy)? How do you lift up out of something so heavy? How do you tip the glass ever so much to let a little fresh air in? or let you out? Sometimes you don't even know you are trapped, but there are clear moments when you are so conscious, all that mind junk hangs on you like dirty wet clothes, and you want them gone now! *Home = mental environment.

I'm going through one of these episodes, where I am in stale air, swimming in stagnation, dripping with excessive unneeded despair, and terrified of how easy this happens to me. Of course I am worrying about a recent physical ailment that is undiagnosed and the unknown exacerbates my trailing anxiety-depression- obsessive compulsive mind behavior. I may find out this is the ultimate psychosomatic stress manifestation and if I do I will be absolutely amazed at what a mind can do to a body. I don't think it is, but I do know that it's time to give up the strong hold on my will to fight the lacking. I cannot manage with this little. I am going to take my anti-depressant pill and hopefully bon voyage across the sea of comfort and tranquility.

We Had a Happy Easter!

2011-04-26T08:46:00.004-04:00

Did You?

Inspirations: Black and White home decor (new purchases)

2011-04-21T07:58:00.009-04:00

Jason Polan Framed Art "Falling Triangles." West Elm worked in collaberation with this artist. A little bit about Jason: he is ambitiously trying to draw everyone in New York City. Check out his blog.

Black Marble Soap Pump.

I am all about accessories! And in recent, all about listening to my own style guide and not arguing with it. It's the small things. And the small things in my instance are shopping the sale section for tiny objects: useful, clever, or interesting, that will perk a smile on my face when I walk in that particular room. These two items I scoured in the West Elm's sale section and believe will give my tribal-esque black and white Art Nouveau bathroom just what it needs. It's immeasurable how excited I get about tiny decor items.

( images viaWest Elm )

A day at the Park (our favorite place to go)

2011-04-19T08:45:00.004-04:00

Weeping Willows sway in the wind and Sylvia uses a branch as a dance partner and spins

Taking a moment to relax in the flowers and feel the sun on her face.

Enjoy Your Weekend!

2011-04-15T08:57:00.005-04:00

Sylvia, my flower child.

This Weekend:

I am having a girls night with two new friends :)
Finally finishing a painting about Motherhood for my friend Natalie
Snuggling on our new couch with my husband and hopefully catching a movie even if we end up just watching some HGTV together (how romantic).
A possible trip to Charleston, WV for the afternoon...I'm thinking drop me off at Home Goods for a couple of hours!
Easter egg hunt at the park
Last, but not least, making the most of the moment and being happy in it!

"Today was a Perfect Day

2011-04-14T15:55:00.007-04:00

Lydia

Alexandria Whew! Shopping is a sport :)

Beth and Kara

I'm glad I spent it with you" ~ Lou Reed

Yesterday two of my loveliest friends came to visit, Beth and Kara. Kara brought her almost 9 months old baby Lydia, who is already one of Alexandria's favorite first friends :)I could not have been more pleased that they were able to come when they did. Marietta is most radiant in Spring and Fall, with all the tree blossoms and tiny violets streaking the grass like a paint spill.

We enjoyed the ever so scrumptious- eye rolling - delight of the artisan sandwiches from 3rd St. Deli. The honey dijon mustard, crunchy hot paninis, all too yummy :P

After a perfect afternoon strolling our babes downtown, indulging in baked goods and shopping, we let the babies roll around on the grass. Little did we know that they would resemble baby cubs rolling around on each other, but that's exactly what they looked like. Alexandria is a slobber kisser and when she gets the chance she is face first on her current favorite friend. Yesterday it was Lydia.

I'm glad Beth got to stay a little later and see Jonathan's practice and join us for Dinner at the Levee House, which really fell flat as far as fine fare is fancied (like the alliteration ?) O, well, we got to enjoy the twilight over the river and the never ending energy supply that runs through my daughter Sylvia. One day, she may like to sit at the table with us. Too much to see and do always...

To: Love

2011-04-12T17:22:00.002-04:00

Nutella. Strawberry Flower.

(a little bit of happiness just for me)

I deserve the tiniest details of attention. I deserve to treat myself like a guest.

I haven't carved the space I need.

I'm still here, with a heart, with a passion, with a desire to be myself and to share my love.

You reap what you sew

Ready to love myself again. Today is the day. The moment is now.

Preschool

2011-03-04T20:36:00.005-05:00

I cannot believe my daughter is heading into the world of academia next Fall. She got accepted to the super cute Putnam Preschool and I've been told she and I will both be in love with the school. With the Eric Carle decoupaged chairs inside, the adoration has begun.

Well, as soon as I saw this backpack from Pottery Barn Kids, I knew it was right! First with the price and secondly with the Owl patch! We love owls! (yes, both of us do). At only $14.99, plus free shipping...I was sold! I paid an extra $6.50, I believe, (which would of been shipping anyway) and had her name stitched on. Btw, the preschool backpacks are under their sale section :)

Inspiration: Well Fitting Everyday Cord Blazer

2010-11-14T11:47:00.004-05:00

Victoria's Secret Cord Blazer. Well,done. Well, done.

Enjoy Your Weekend!

2010-11-13T14:25:00.005-05:00

" I thank God for this most amazing day, for the leaping greenly spirit of trees,

and for the blue dream of sky and for everything which is natural, which is

infinite, which is yes!" E.E. Cummings

Nicole's Shopping Picks:

Power Combos: Ruffle Camis & Tops with Cardis & any Fitted Blazer

*Personal Note:

I have really been getting into the R&B hip-hop pop. I feel like I understand it more now. I can't really explain other than I need booty shaking happy beats to kick me into high gear.

And the last 3 months

2010-10-29T21:25:00.001-04:00

In a collage.

New.ness

2010-10-29T21:17:00.002-04:00

I've been pretty awful at this whole blogging thing.
Usually I am full of random thoughts to share,
but
I believe when this happens,
it's me finding
a new direction
and
being a mother of two has really
made me fumble with my own pleasurable agenda.
So,
with that said,
I am back.
Hopefully, with a new attitude and fresh look-- for the blog.
I am feeling something a little different.
It's not so easy to translate verbally so I will just go with
what
I am feeling and post.

.

2010-10-18T16:37:00.004-04:00

Ok:

I want to work out M-F and take the weekends as my ultra luxurious hang out/ indulgence outlet. i.e. eat homeade cookies and watch streaming Keeping up with the Kardashians (I kid, sorta...those girls remind me of me and my sisters) and HGTV.
I want to make 2 homemade meals a week.
I am not allowed to leave the house unless I have my hair and make-up completed -- even if it's just a ponytail and lip gloss.
I am buying groceries that are more whole food related than microwavable and of course bring me joy and pleasure along with being healthful, i.e. goat cheese, pita & hummus, and my standard onion pepper medley that I enjoy in quesadillas and omelets. I'm even going to splurge on Perrier, because I think it's the best tasting sparkling water and it satiates my desire for carbonation without the semi toxic chemicals in diet soda-- which I am not detoxing from just limiting my intake. Sometimes I Just want a diet coke. O, and since I'm fairly lactose intolerant I am starting those chewable calcium chocolates...I want to delay the aging process as much as I can naturally.
I think I might start jogging. Will this hurt or help my bum knee? Let's find out!
Super excited that a friend is starting a book club-- I think this might actually happen and withstand time-- we'll see though. I need to read more, discuss more. I figure I have some cartoon medley space available in my brain for sale.

That was just a little list of to do's/ to: be in the self improvement realm.

Alexandria: 3 Months

2010-10-15T16:30:00.005-04:00

LOOK AT YOU Baby Girl: 3 months old! Already!

*What a beautiful little soul she is. She is the epitome of Sweet. I don't call her Ali pie for no reason. Her nature, her aura, is the softest breeze of sunshine...the tip top part of the sunshine beam that is just light, warmth, and comforting atmosphere. She looks your way and you feel like she is hugging you with her eyes. Her whole face smiles when she smiles; she is one of those people where her eyes bend down while her mouth bends up and makes this complete circle. She tries to hum along with me while I sing and gets entranced by anyone who is talking and then she tries to carry on with you as if she knows exactly what you're talking about.

Oatmeal Cranberry White Chocolate Chunk Cookies

2010-10-15T16:27:00.004-04:00

The building blocks

confetti batter!

And here they are: proof that I am indeed a craftsman and denying it is only keeping me from the sweet (creative) living. Ok, so I tinker...

You want the recipe?

alllllllllright here it is:

Ingredients

2/3 cup butter or margarine, softened

2/3 cup brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats

1 1/2 cups flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1 6oz package of craisins

2/3 cup white chocolate chunks or chips

Directions

*preheat oven to 375 degrees

*With an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar in a medium bowl until fluffy

*Add eggs, mixing well

*Combine oats, flour, baking soda, & salt in seperate mixing bowl

*Add to butter mixture in severeal additions, mixing well each time

*Stir in dried cranberries and white chocolate chunks

*Drop by rounded tablespoons unto ungreased cookie sheets

*Bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown

*Cool on wire rack

*yeilds approximately 2 1/2 dozen

*Recipe taken from Ocean Spray Craisin Advertisement 2010

A little bit of this, A little bit of that

2010-10-11T21:02:00.003-04:00

I have learned a lot about myself these past couple of months

I'm not crafty and don't have a desire to be crafty. My craft is always free form. I like to throw things together in a hurry, and as unlikely as it may normally be , the end result is dandy-- work in the way you work, I say.
My fashion sense is refining to be more minimal (that sounds sorta strange), more classic, more prone to cut, color, and definition. I want my look to be dynamic, tasteful, and tailored.
I suddenly have the desire to look like I give a damn. Mind you, with two kids now this is a bigger feat, but even more necessary for proper mothering. I am a better mother when I feel confident. I can no longer swallow a day without mascara (I'm being a little dramatic). It's not about vanity, it's about the sanity vanity delivers. Psychologically speaking, if I feel pretty outwardly then I condition my inward anxiety/insecurities; of course it's just conditioning, not the cure. A boob job is still biting at my proverbial heels.
I have said goodbye to characteristics I find charming, amusing, and inspiring, but are not me. To recognize this is difficult and a little guilt ridden, but you get over it, because you realize, now I can spend my time doing and being who I am. 3 of things on the top of my list are: go to massage school, become more culinary, make paintings because that is my art-my absolute favorite way to create and expose my imagination. Also, I spend most of my leisurely time dreaming up outfits and decorating rooms, how this translates lucratively, I don't know, but god it makes me happy. So, in short I am all about the simple pleasures in life,getting the toxins out via massages and working out, eating well, creating beauty, basking in the therapeutic affects of a well designed space, shopping for clothes I feel denote myself, and constantly working on my ever evolving internal poetry(dream of getting them published) that is mused from the extreme way I feel and soak in my environments.
I am aloof, sometimes frequently so. I feel like I need to decompress by being totally dull and unamused at times. I think its the breaks I take from being such a feeling person. I need to dip my electric tentacles in some cold dark water.
I don't know how to relax, when I am in a state of getting things done. I can only really work feverishly, even though I know this is draining, it's the only way I know to be, shrug.
I feel like Distraction is becoming the meaning of life. (we can talk about this more deeply over French press coffee and scones, preferably on a sunny Autumn day).
My husband is my soul-mate. Our kids are just proof that we are meant to be. A world without Sylvia and Alexandria doesn't make any sense at all!

Beckoning the Fall (2010 mix)

2010-09-13T17:54:00.002-04:00

(click pics to view larger)

I've decided to make only one Grand Mix a year now. I used to spend 8 hrs. + perusing, composing, listening, compiling, editing, and now with 2 kids, free to do as I please time is not the unyielding pasture it used to be. With that said, I am always the most inspired in the Fall - in every area of my life, and so like-wise my Fall mixes have always been my favorite and the most easy to assemble because I was/am in the groove during this time. The only way I send out mass mixes is if I have sent a disc burning with compulsion through my player into my ears with it only getting better to listen to with each play. So, lucky you, this mix passed the test and so now I just have to find those addresses and a mailing day or meet up with you day and send the record spinning your way.

A quote I thought of...

2010-08-30T08:44:00.002-04:00

Being a mother is no walk in the park, but that's a big part of it :)
~Me

Alexandria: 1 Month

2010-08-16T17:16:00.004-04:00

1 Month YOUNG (where does the time go?)...

Mommy's nickname for Alexandria: Ali pie

Daddy's nickname for Alexandria: Aly O'Maley

Sylvia's nickname for Alexandria: Baby Sister!!

Grandaddy Bob's nickname for Alexandria: Ali Gator

Going the Distance (2010) Official Trailer [REAL][FULL HQ]

2010-08-05T16:47:00.002-04:00

I think this looks like a cute movie. In the shallowest respects I posted this video to show you all or ask you all what you think of Drew B's hair do? I want to cut my hair and this look really appeals to me. For once, I am thinking No Layers and trying some products for a loose wave and underlying volume. What do you all think?

What happens to me when...

2010-08-03T21:12:00.009-04:00

What happens to me when I'm tired?

Apparently, I think it's funny/a good idea to interview blog about my condition.
I could care less about the small things. Well, when I am at a certain degree of tired, the kind where I might mistake anything you say for something else, have an extremely delayed response or action, or miss objects I'm grabbing for by a mile, for example: I just spilt juice all over the floor because my prior too tired self didn't screw the lid on tight enough;I immediately switch to laughter at my induced insanity and then grab a towel, throw it aimlessly on the floor(because perfection is for the sober), and then try to clean a half hazard streak of whatever I think needs cleaned with spilled juice (aren't acidic fruits supposed to be anti-bacterial or whatever?)
I am a drunk Zombie. If a Zombie who is all dead like with tunnel vision(mine is usually towards the coffee pot) were to have too many drinks adding the dopey laugh and the klutz syndrome, you'd have a prime example of my too tired self. Also, like a zombie, I have a very high pain tolerance as someone could probably punch me in the arm and it not hurt at all...well, I take that back...go back to the first bullet point...it's a seriously delayed pain reaction and by the time it would register I'd be confused on why I was hurting and shrug. it off.
don't ask me anything that requires adding, subtracting, multiplying, clarifying, justifying, or please do, it might make you laugh. I'm here for your entertainment, because I am completely selfless when I am this tired. Do you want $20 too? Sure.
You might see me staring at a corner somewhere, staring romantically in the fridge for food to prepare itself for me, as a still life of a woman- mid cleaning a cup out over the sink swimming in the deep end of her thoughts ( I Tend to fall into this weird psychedelic philosophical daydream on the quickest whim, usually stimulated by something very small like a tiny cob web in my kitchen window sill) when I'm this tired.
I can make a mean list about whatever: hence, what is commensurating here.
Time is an illusion to me; it bends and waves to a different rhythm when I see too much of it and don't use enough of it for sleep. Trippy.
I will sequester you with an argument. Don't even try to win:1. because I'm emotionally disabled at the moment 2. I think I make sense no matter what 3. It's your fault I can't function. 4. I won't remember this fight after I sleep.

Welcome to the World Baby Ali!

2010-07-30T06:55:00.004-04:00

6:03 p.m. Friday July 16,2010 baby Alexandria Nico Harris

arrived into the world. She perched open her mouth and made the

tiniest squeal of a cry, before they placed her warm body upon mine.

My skin and her skin interwove immediately, never giving time for atoms to

seperate us (the permanent mother-child bond declared), our hearts joined in rhythm, and we became a body of love, a tree

nestling a tiny acorn on the branch.

Ook Alexandria :)

2010-07-15T13:53:00.002-04:00

I have a doctor's appt. in a half hour. They will check your heart rate, the size of my belly, and do an internal exam. I can pretty much assume there is no real big change as of last week, but I could be surprised. You have been so cozy with me from the start. I have had a great pregnancy with barely a hiccup of discomfort. I feel you swimming-not jabbing, and am so curious to see how your womb personality is going to be compared to your outside-in-the-world personality. Your sister Sylvia was very much like her womb personality: compulsively kicked me on one side (today she is an active climber and leg swinger gymnast in training), and would vibrate like crazy to soul music (today she dances around everywhere: making up songs as she goes, dancing to whatever is playing, and dance runs as she has made "twisting" apart of running. She also came early, not surprising, as today she is very spirited and determined to get done what she has intended to be, and if that meant she was finished in the womb then by all means she was going to get here immediately, and so my labor came on almost 2 weeks early and with no extended slow to fast labor, just fast to faster labor (within 2 days of constant contractions). With you however, you have me dilating slowly and your due date is Sunday: a little over 2 days from now, and I don't feel the least bit as though you'll be coming then, but labor is a weird phenomena: there's no indication to when or how long it's going to take. I have a strange feeling you may be trying to be a LEO. If so, I won't be seeing you until at least next Friday. I know that Cancers and Leo's are pretty different. A Leo would like the fashionably late, attention grabbing spotlight moment! and if that's the case I can't wait to meet my little lion! You'd be in shared company with your Lion relatives: yia yia and Aunt Hanna. Both are stunningly bright attractive personalities that roar with ambition and are very very protective of their loved ones (cubs).

I can't wait to meet you my little darling girl!

Love, Mamma

Ok Alexandria...

2010-07-11T12:09:00.004-04:00

Ok Alexandria,

I am going to make your painting today. The full moon is arising tonight ~~ if you feel a rocking from the moon beams it is the Universe guiding you here. I can't wait to hold you in my crescent moon arms and stare in your starry eyes spinning & buzzing a newborn galaxy.

I have cultivated a pearl in the corner of my eye for you. My eyes, like a locket, like a clam, will unhatch and unearth this exfoliated gem of a tear when you are born. I will bejewel you with a drop of water so clean and grateful. I will wash you with a single dew drop from your Mother and welcome you to Earth.

Love, Your Mamma.

Sylvia.

2010-07-10T12:13:00.003-04:00

(images: via Anna Mancuso Photography)

A couple of weeks ago my friend Anna came to visit us here in Marietta and brought her photography equipment and followed us around to capture my little fairy of a daughter, Sylvia, playing and being in her happiest element: the sunny outdoors! I've been friends with Anna since the beginning days of college and O how I miss being in dorms side by side swapping music and love stories, and she was instantly a light in my life with her pursuit of passion in all things spiritual and lovely. With her discerning and delicate eye she can capture where the realm of thing meets an object's essence-soul. To gaze at her photographs is to see the thin film over the truth be told shining through. I am amazed at how Sylvia's spirit was highlighted in these photos.

Thank you Anna for using your butterfly net eyes and gracefully swooping up these images for admiration!

She put a post up about her visit: here.

Come back to visit soon Anna!

Sylvia.

2010-07-08T17:29:00.003-04:00

My Best Friend in the Universe of all Universes, Elizabeth Weiss, visited us last week during

her Summer break & got to see me barefoot (well with Birkenstocks) and almost 9 mos. pregnant and we finally got the lax trip we have missed for so long: just able to do as we please, chill, and be in each other's presence letting the conversations stream. Well, I must note how grateful I am that she has this certain photo antiquing (can't remember the style name) application on her i-phone that was able to romanticize these moments with saturated color and charcoal edging concerting with her artistic eye of course.

I didn't tell Beth this, but my most favorite part of the trip was listening to her read poems in my kitchen. The instant- tie us together bond- we have had since the beginning is poetry and all forms of writing and correspondence. We were classic pen pals for years. We both like to document and landscape our lives in letters and poems. I'm pretty sure if you were to break open our souls-- verses would fall to the floor chattering and then fly away in conquest of other bodies to take over. I understand poetry more than standard English Language. I feel like poetry is a language that uses the native tongue but has it's own tongue at the same time.

Good Morning

2010-07-07T09:43:00.003-04:00

I'll Be Your Mirror

Thankful.

2010-07-07T09:25:00.002-04:00

coffee tastes good. sleep was fantastic: a classical anxietal having your college courses cancelled and not knowing if you can get new classes in time to make up for graduating on time. Found myself in a map making class drawing an ocean...almost actually drawing it like you draw water as I would move my crayon across the page the chalky consistency would turn into an actual photograph which turned into actual reality which had me feeling the water and eventually sitting on a boat. Was I mapping out my own waters?

Back Tracking: Father's Day

2010-06-27T08:16:00.001-04:00

Sylvia bought Daddy a Papa Bear Mug.

Sylvia's portrait drawing of her grandaddy Bob.

The one on the left is an Abstract Expressionistic marker drawing for Pappy Frazier.

Happy Pappy.

Enjoy Your Weekend!

2010-06-25T08:02:00.006-04:00

(After a trip to our River City Farmer's Market)

A few days ago I thought I felt pretty spry and then as of a couple days ago I started to get weepy and

my energy and desire to nest seems to be waning. Hormones are changing I presume, and so I am letting nature slow me down so that Ali can make her way here. I feel like she may be coming sooner now as my mood has completely flipped and of course last night I started feeling the semi painful contraction pulls practicing. She is burrowing down. There are still things to paint, to be hung, to be stored, to read, to pack, etc. etc. but I am feeling chill about it, like, eh, what will get done will get done and so far I've had incredible support and help from family making the prep so much easier!

Things that are going on this weekend for sure:

I'm going to Borders Saturday morning for a breast feeding discussion. I found out about this by meeting a new friend and her baby girl at the park yesterday. She is the head of Mamma*ology: an organizational support system for mothers. I'm excited to get involved with some of the events they put on and meet up for play dates.
I'd like to get to the flea market to look for two bistro chairs for our front porch. They've gotta be cheap.chic. and substantial. I have faith I can find something. I'd like to sit on our big porch and play cards and have fancy breakfasts with hot drinks.
Visiting the Farmer's market to rally up some red ripe tomatoes. I'm obsessed with them this time of year! Nothing tastes better than a homegrown tomato.
My BFF Beth is coming in Sunday evening, and I hope to make something scrumptious for dinner and then chillax the night away at home and around town.
Ernestly attemp to make Ali's painting; while spray painting a couple of things would be icing on the cake.

Bump Along: Almost 37 weeks & Happy 4th Anniversary Sweet Heart!

2010-06-24T22:40:00.005-04:00

Tonight Jonathan and I celebrated our 4th Wedding Anniversary.

My husband honestly drives me crazy-- it's a mutual thing.

We make eachother go bananas! We are the strangest union of souls only

happy together, but we step all over eachother's toes in the choreography dept.

We'll keep on bruisin eachother's toes till we leave the planet-- because our love is

mad and mad love is passionate love-feeling love-break you down to your silly bones love.

We fight until we laugh, that's the secret, because love will be stubborn only because

you ache individually...(that's human I think)

we hug our differences until they are felt, realized, and accepted.

Thank you Honey, for fighting with me (I know that sounds strange but it's literally the evolutionary muscle sweat you need to grow), laughing with me, and cherishing our differences as

comical and enlightening!

You'll always be that quirky fellow that stole my heart!

Afternoon Tribal Art by Sylvia.

2010-06-24T22:30:00.004-04:00

No make-up.

late afternoon.

very pregnant.

tired.

Sylvia is playing with black finger paint.

asks to tickle my nose.

"Sure," I say.

"Again?" Sylvia says

"Sure," I say.

and then I let her take artistic liberty & mark up my entire face.

Then she wants to look like me and asks to touch her face with her black soaked finger.

"Sure," I say.

Inspiration: Judy Garland singing Somewhere Over the Rainbow

2010-06-23T14:26:00.011-04:00

This scene in The Wizard of Oz was seared into the film strip roll of my memory forever. Her eyes captured the dew drop innocence of naivety. The philosophical/spiritual wondering while wandering in a mundane environment that is neither too poor nor too rich-- where she later realizes it's the side of the rainbow she really loves and needs, but there are times when we are always searching for what else? What else is there out there? and is there a place so colorful, so harmless, so liberating that we can be transported there someday? I also found her to be so beautiful in this scene,not just the perfect curls and gingham,maybe more so because she was so emersed in this nomadic monologue that I truely saw/ felt this aura of the human condition that is shot out like a rainbow when someone is exposing their raw imperfect heart and praying for hope, for change. Bravo Judy Garland for expressing the weight of this song as light as "tiny blue birds flying."

Inspiration: B&W & Sequins & Boatneck

2010-06-21T17:40:00.004-04:00

Stripe Sequin Boatneck Tee

This will be my 'I just had a baby reward clothing purchase':

When I have the baby--this week, next week, the following week?...it's all up to Ali now!

Why I Love it so: It's inches away from tacky and a step above the classic Pablo Picasso B&W boatneck.

What's the secret? Clear sequins of course!

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-19T21:37:00.003-04:00

I was somewhere between 1 & 2 here. I Love my dad soo much! He is one of my most favorite friends and just happens to be my super creative, hilarious, and handsome dad!

This was probably the last year I saw him without facial hair. Apparently that is the shirt he wore the night he met my mom(at least I think that's what they told me) ~~ pretty awesome right? I guess he used to wear the puca shell necklace with it too!

Happy Father's Day!!! to a father who is a constant source of inspiration and love.

Happy Father's Day to my Husband Jonathan!

He is a silly daddy and so much fun to play with! Sylvia adores him more than life! They are usually found together rolling around and laughing. He's a big kid and so Sylvia has a ball with him. He's very doting over her and he will be with Alexandria too! Girls love the attention!

Enjoy Your Weekend!

2010-06-11T11:58:00.002-04:00

I just had a docotor's appt. and by the internal evaluation:

I am 60% effaced and my cervix is softening.

The doctor believes since I went a couple of weeks early with Sylvia

and by how things look so far that he doesn't see me going anywhere

past a couple more weeks.

That puts me around the 27th of June. My mom's mom: grandma Thea, was born June 30th.

Since Alexandria is a Greek name and my Grandma is fully Greek that would be

such a cool thing to share. I love my grandma soo much and that would make me

so incredibly happy for that serendipity to occur.

Eeeek! Where did the time go? Looks like this will be my last weekend for traveling.

I am going to Wheeling and hope to work out seeing a couple of local friends, going shopping for those last decor items & storage items, and of course spending some time with family.

I want to make these last couple of weeks with Sylvia so much fun! We've been

a pair for almost 2.5 years. So many special memories between us that are locked forever in my heart and mind. We cannot wait to add another girl into our lives and share in those memories together. Daddy will have a lot of twinkling eyes his way ~ forever. We are all so lucky to have eachother!

Mini Hello Update: Us.

2010-06-10T12:38:00.006-04:00

I'm going to see a root canal doctor today because I bit into a piece of corn on the cob a little too hard or was the corn on the cob a little too hard? Either way, I felt an immediate pain and to boot it was my "dead tooth," the permanent tooth I knocked out whole when I was 9. They were able to put it back and ever since I've only had to deal with bleaching it from the the inside out, so that it "appears" to be a normal tooth: o the illusion! So, I cringed a little thinking that I may have broken the shell of a tooth- above my gums ;( However, the pain is between the right front tooth and the one right beside it ( I should be able to tell you the name of that tooth and it's number since my husband's a dentist). I'm hoping I just did something like "bruise the ligament," as my husband suggests could also be the case for the pain. *I'm going into my 35th week of pregnancy and finding out that I need to pull this tooth and get a new one is not exactly the dish I want to be served at the moment...So, I am hoping, hoping, it's all just some inflammation.
Jonathan has been spending the Springtime going on cycling event rides around the general area. I can tell this brings him inner joy, by the way he peruses cycling events online, stocks up on Hammer Gel (some all natural sugary energy supplement) and outfits himself in the pro latex uniforms (very attractive--seriously), and I'm just guessing is a therapuetic release to be riding free, enjoying the scenery, being with other cyclists, and getting a nice work out that is easy on the joints. He used to be a runner, but it's hard on the joints and it's gotten to him a little, which I have heard happens when you are an avid young runner as oppose to those who start running when they are in their late 20s or even 30s--who then can run for 15 years + with no real injuries or wear down...or so my dad says, and he would know.
In the past week or so Sylvia is a little conversationalist. She is so expressionistic with her gestures and facial expressions and now she is doing both of those things and giving me clear assertive sentences about what she is thinking and what she wants. This is my most favorite stage so far as we can share in little conversations and jokes. She understands me more as well and this makes for easier disciplining. She loves to dance, to be silly always, has a super keen visual memory, chocolate (o how she loves chocolate), is such a climber, hugs like it's her job, she is very interested in helping us do whatever-- she is so proud of herself for helping and really enjoys it (may have a srong work ethic--nice!), likes to pretend to be a mommy with her toys, twirls when she wears dresses, screams like a girl around most bugs, is still a morning person but when it's bed time does not fight it, enjoys looking for fireflies, and I believe will always like to make up nonsense sounds with us and be extra loud doing so... so many little things that are coloring in her personality.

Enjoy Your Weekend!

2010-06-04T22:28:00.002-04:00

Find the Connection.

Wardrobe addition: Knotty Green Tank.

2010-06-01T21:50:00.003-04:00

Ambling Twists Tank

I bought this tank at Anthropologie during our anniversary getaway to Columbus-- without trying it on of course, but after seeing this model in it, I am happy with how it stretches out. I am currently amore with knotted jersey tops & dresses.

(image via Anthropologie)

Alexandria's Nursery: Stage 1 Prep.

2010-05-27T10:35:00.004-04:00

I really am having a ball decorating Alexandria's nusery. I didn't quite get the freedom with Sylvia's nusery last time + a bunch of other reasons I won't go into here, but this is the first major decorative swoop that has gone on in the past couple of months.

I had done a little bit of rug research and was so bummed in my attempt to find a quality rug with great girly graphics that would look lovely in this room that wasn't hitting a $100 or more. Then one sunny afternoon (well I think it was probably quite cold and cloudy), the sunshine beams grabbed a hold of me while perusing through Ikea. We saw two rugs @ 39.99--5x7-- super soft-- great backing. This is the one we bought for Sylvia-- I'll be posting about her 1.2.3. room make-over as well.

The Poang chair, also from Ikea, is going to be my "nursing chair." The paper lamp-- you guessed it, Ikea too (shrug, I like me some affordable Swedish designing). I figure having the soft paper light glow in the wee hours will be nice.

The color is a starry yellow now, but soon it will be an enchanting, very light pink.

The crib was a splurge piece we bought at some baby boutique in SC. Slightly regrettable buying something so expensive-- although, I quiet the guilt by it also being an investment piece, because it turns into a full size sleigh bed and is a really great quality wood. That said, I find the tulip bedding to really jump out because of the dark wood.

To the right of the crib is a butterfly chandelier I found at Toys R Us (sorry, I can't find a link for it online). I had hoped to maybe conquer my own homemade mobile, but I am sticking to what I'm good at: painting. A tulip painting/collage is currently in the works (mental works at this stage), but nevertheless apart of the plan.

This changing table was such a freaking steal!! We bought it at Target for a clearanced price of $25, only because they weren't going to be selling this particular style in stores anymore-- don't ya love that? I lived without one last time and used the dresser as our changing table, but really wanted a seperate place this time because the pad just didn't stay as secure as I wanted and there was a bounty of baby storage things i.e.diapers, wipes, lotions, bath stuff, extra inventory that would of been nice to have in hands reach. Plus, I also like that it is a cappucino color and is just light enough to stand out in it's own way. I love the non-matchy, but totally matches because of some design law or another.

*Please disregard the smudgy mirror(toddler finger prints before I moved the changing table)-- thanx. So, now that I have the top of the dresser as a blank slate, these are two of the things I am going to purchase for function and of course chic-ness.

These stacking lil luggages from the Land of Nod: the pink set with blue handles. I can only imagine what I will use them to corrall, but they are the perfect piece for the right side of the dresser.
Then on the left side of the dresser this vintage inspired fan. I am honestly, quite obsessed with this recreation. Like, I want on in every room, sorta deal.

Inspiration: Striped Trend.

2010-05-22T09:31:00.008-04:00

Striped Shirt

I am one of the followers of the striped trend. I have been for months now. Jonathan and I are celebrating our 4th anniversary!! in Columbus, OH next weekend, a little earlier than it really is, because I will be only 3 weeks away from delivering Ali if we waited until the actual day of June 24. It's going to be all about shopping! *Side Note: how lucky am I to have a husband that enjoys going on shopping excursions with me and agrees to pretty much celebrate all of our anniversaries thus far that way? Anyway, the shirt {pictured above} is from Forever 21 and so I will be looking for it next weekend. I'm starting my post-delivery wardrobe. The motivation for me to get back to my original size is to have clothing in my normal size staring at me in my closet. I will lose the weight for fashion, like that! (snapping fingers).

(image: via Forever 21)

Sylvia's Room: Canopy

2010-05-21T21:51:00.006-04:00

Dream Canopy.

I promise to be posting regularly again soon. I've been in the baby prep funnel and in a decorating frenzy. I'm accessorizing rooms more than anything. I can't help it. I really can't. The canopy {pictured above} I'm thinking of getting to put over Sylvia's black iron swirly bed. I think canopies and canopy beds are something a girl dreams of having once or twice in her life. It makes you feel magical.

Would I totally bore you all if I started posting pics of decorating accessories and how I am compartmentalizing in my own Nicole way?

Nesting (Bed) Bugs.

2010-05-18T10:05:00.005-04:00

From 3a.m.-5a.m. I was hair twirling to the clickedy clack of the roller coaster mind track, escalating up and down about our baby Alexandria: what she's going to look like, breast feeding for sure this time, delivery & the house: lists of to do's and amazingly enough design solutions during the wee morning mind light. At 31 weeks, I have the humming bird buzzing wings-- able to carry my lopsided body around like a feather, doing all that is necessary to bring little Alexandria into a stable, loving, and of course beautifully aesthetic home. It's in my nature to be a hostess, and bringing a child into our lives/home is the ceremonial induction of the most highest honored guest: a brand new family member and most importantly our second princess. Gotta go prep and primp.

Inspiration: Hats.

2010-05-13T09:41:00.002-04:00

Is anyone else really feeling the straw cloche and fedora vibe? I am.

(images via:Anthropolgie.)

Alexandria Nico Harris - 30 week 3D Ultra Sound

2010-05-11T11:41:00.002-04:00

Bump Along: 30 weeks.

2010-05-10T18:17:00.004-04:00

30 Weeks

That Alexandria, I tell ya, she is starting to get more lively by the minute. Although this one's lively is not of barbaric temperament, it is still swimmingly flighty-- maybe like a really happy ribbon dancer-- to paint you a picture.
I've got a sweet tooth or shall I say teeth, that chomp down a mighty share of M&M's and S'more Poptarts.
I can see the limbs rise up like mole hills across my belly and sink back down like some kind of bony fish. Crazy neat.
As for me physically: laughing, sneezing, coughing all make me pee a little. Maybe TMI, but all of you pregnant ladies and pregnant ladies of the past surely know what I'm talking about. I remedy this by squatting to the floor if any of those occur, but unfortunately that rarely helps. Also, I am having lower back pain that makes it pretty difficult to do a lot of lifting and even walking long distances. And as of today, I find myself every once and awhile getting a nice jolt of nerve pain in my upper thighs--most likely because the baby is compressing on one or two. And to say I have to pee a lot or feel like I have to pee a lot is an understatement: Baby on Bladder (like those yellow suction cup signs from the 80's mom's used to put on their car.)
I am forever losing everything from my mind, time, keys, but have developed a keen sense for compiling baby lists, and keeping the house moving in the direction of "making room for a new baby," decoratively and of course functionally.
I have 10 weeks max-- most likely. It's the final countdown!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T21:29:00.001-04:00

Black and White Photo booth (1982 or 1983).

Me and My Beautiful Mom. I am about a year or a year old here.

Pasta Making.

2010-05-07T08:13:00.003-04:00

Homemade Angel Hair

Homemade Linguine

I went to a pasta making class a few weeks ago at the Blennerhasset Culinary School, and learned how to make pasta from scratch. I have strong family roots in Italy and for some reason or another learning more and more about Italian based meals is growing ever more interesting to me. I cherish family tradition, rituals, and culture, and even if I am clueless concerning most of my Italia familie's way of doing things, I feel in some ways I am paying homage to my past family by learning about essential Italian meals.

It was a very messy affair, as is anything made with a huge bowl of flour and egg. Although, the messiness is apart of what made it so fun. How can you be an angry person when you are making pasta? At first, I believed it may be too precise-- like baking, but it's about 50/50 content and rustic. I find this balance in myself as well: I like a schedule part of the time, but just as equally I am impulsive.

Here is basically the same recipe we used during the class. Making pasta with egg is much healthier than most pastas you buy at the stores that are made with starch and water only. For example: you can make even healthier pasta buy using whole wheat flour. During our class we used the turn handle pasta machine. Of course you can always cut it yourself, but this is a very fast and time honored way. Apparently the Italian brand to buy is Atlas. This is on my list of precious novelty domestica kitchen saavy utenils. I have romantic ideals that I will be making homemade pasta with my girls someday.

There are many more pasta making accessories like: a drying rack and ravioli makers, but I think a sharp knife and a pasta maker will be all you need at first.

Sylvia's Art @ almost 2.5 yrs.

2010-05-06T09:11:00.007-04:00

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” ~ Pablo Picasso

Content:

Faces
family
circles
general abstract expressionism

I framed these in Ikea's Ribba frames. We hung them in our rec-room/play room. When Sylvia walks down the stairs and sees her work and hears our praise she is so proud of herself-- as she should be! We have a little artist on our hands. She amazes me already with her innate ability to compose, express, and use such concentrated detail and memory images as she runs her markers and crayons across the page --dictating to us what she is thinking...simply lovely.

Putnam Preschool School Fair.

2010-05-04T15:25:00.009-04:00

Saturday afternoon we ventured to Devola, which I know very little of yet, just that it's a few miles up the road from Marietta and by immediate impressions alludes to a happy country town with flat manicured yards, lovely new developed homes, with sprinkles of torn and worn and revitalized century old beauties, and a sense of calm~~ of course it could of been the abundant sunshine that boasted the atmosphere, but nevertheless It felt homey with all the families out and about.

It's also home to my favorite new local pizza "Dough Boys."

We headed to Devola because there is a preschool that gets accolades upon accolades according to the locals who have sent their children there. It's called Putnam Preschool. I am a little embarrassed that I did not take a picture of the tiny brick school. It was actually the very essence of what you would conjure up as an aesthetic example of the perfect looking preschool building: In the shape of a tiny church with bell & little wooden decoupaged furniture inside. Just about the cutest preschool I have ever seen. Well, they were having a fundraiser fair and so this was our chance to see what it is all about in a way.

I am very amused by how my 29 week, ripe as a melon, pregnancy belly is curiously masked by the black shirt, scarf, and straight on angle?

So is it just me or do they have twin profiles?

One of the clowns made Sylvia her own purple balloon flower.

Sylvia is such an animal lover! She patted the chickens for awhile, followed by the lambs.

I think I may want to live in Devola in a few years. I have come to the realization that I want a little more country in my backyard, a little more quiet in my life, yet still be close to downtown Marietta instead of living in it. I am however, really grateful and happy to live in the downtown for awhile-- because I've always wanted to and because during this time in my life I like the easy access, and by easy access I mean in walking distance to the things I love the most: shopping, food, and coffee shops.

These two put the Spring in my Spring.

2010-05-04T15:05:00.007-04:00

I believe everyone is their hottest when they are joyfully and innocently relaxing and having fun.

As soon as I saw my- chill to the lax -husband align himself in this tube like he was trying to measure it with his body, I busted out the camera and was able to capture his little boy soul smile.

My heart pours more hearts when I see my daughter sleeping. What magical dreams are occuring here?

Sylvia and the wishing flower, as we call it. Picking flowers is one of her new favorite hobbies.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

2010-04-30T20:14:00.000-04:00

Everyday Sylvia connects more and more. She is so honest.ly refreshing in thought and behavior-- I feel I am in the presence of something so intangibly divine and delicate. I like to watch her twinkle. Little kids are angelic.

I should of done that Yesterday, Wait! I did!

2010-04-26T06:48:00.010-04:00

Checking in: putting verbal to the keypad: ENTER:>Go>>

Neglect. What a concept. To me is consciously being in a state of exterior unconsciousness to said neglected area, while mentally you obsess over how you don't obsess over it. There are reasons-- subjective reasons, that this entire area is put on the back burner. Rationally it is all what you believe is the necessity of the moment, and in most cases it is not the priority at present; until one day you realize that even though it wasn't a priority at all in any of those moments it culminates to one screeching disaster: Neglect, kind of like a big Evicted Sign on a door of nonpayment.

Well, I started paying back my dues yesterday in hopes of forgiveness from the universal eye and soul that looms over me with a smiley face or arms crossed, depending on the situation. I'm talking about house cleaning/organizing. One might think that I have an immaculate house by the way I talk and obsess about talking about cleaning (see: above), and that's probably my conscious trying any way of coming out of me to look me square in the face: via computer screen to be concrete, mostly, because this is where I sort and vent mental clutter, well here and my scribble pad (the scribble pad will never be outdated to me, it's primal for my anxiety to physically write copious and redundant lists). And...

There is one word and name that I will always hold as the #1 reason not to attend to the other things that need attention in my life/house and her name is: Sylvia. I can't resist attending to her only. I've been pretty disciplined with her in most areas where I am trying not to spoil her, but it's extremely hard not to go snuggle her on the couch instead of washing the dishes or leaving her to play by herself while I go make needed phone calls. Don't get me wrong, you would probably look in my house and say, wow, you wrote this post for a pretty well maintained looking house, because it does not emanate mad neglect, but the upkeep is fair in some ways and a total disaster in other ways according to my standards.The standards of anyone who works at home, and especially a house wife/mother or stay at home dad, tend to centralize on all the imperfections of their environment, so the standard is skewed by having the acute sense of observance by extreme repetition of the same interior space(s). That said, when your husband comes home and says he's had enough of the leaning tower of books that almost reaches the ceiling(exaggerating a little) on my bedside table that have been there for maybe a couple of months, I am thrown out of my clever side ways dance of obliviousness and finally, although dizzy, able to center in quickly on what I have left astray.

Well, yesterday, Jonathan and I got down and dirty...cleaning the house, what did you think I was talking about? By sparing some hours, even though it wasn't a real challenge because we had babysitters,we were able to make space for a linen closet and moved our winter coats and luggage in this closet as well. Everything fits perfectly. Jonathan kept saying in his loud, funny, obnoxious tone every time he would slide something into the perfect spot, "LIKE A GLOVE!" This side of my husband is my favorite, when he puts comedy to chores. I tend to lean toward the serious during those times, and he made it a fun day. By clearing out our former coat/utility of sorts closet, I had unearthed my new walk in closet, that we totally agreed upon during our day of redesign planning. Woo to the freakin' hooo!!! We were actually considering rearranging furniture in our bedroom so that Jonathan could get an armoire to hang his clothes up, and now he has the bedroom closet, so we don't need to buy the armoire, and I have a luxurious amount of space for any fashion diva living in an early 20th century house that usually only serves up small closets :) I am excited to explore the avenues of shoe racks, purse racks, and other closet attachments. In short, throughout the entire day of organizing, together we found ways to open up the existing fortune that was right there, just by moving things around.

My current goal and I imagine until I pass away, is to integrate all facets of my life into a lovely balance. Day 1.

Baby Room Art Purchase: Tulip Print.

2010-04-22T11:04:00.007-04:00

The first piece of art I've purchased for Alexandria's room is this super cute print via the Etsy store:LoveSugar. They are a collaberative husband and wife graphic design team, selling some pretty cute prints that seem suitable for the in vogue babe of the future.

The French quote is by: Anna De Noailles and reads, "Nothing is real but dreams and love."

I'm pretty much sticking to a tulip theme, but mainly it will be a room of flowers and butterflies;

only because I have found a butterfly mobile and so it's being added to the theme decor. There's no method to my madness--it's just madness and hopefully in the end fabulousness. I'm an instinct girl.

Good Morning: Story.

2010-04-20T07:41:00.003-04:00

4:30 a.m. I hear the antique door knob squeal and jargle open. At the same time I was dreaming of reaching in a bag of barbeque potato chips from the back seat of a van, nestled between the head rest and the driver's side seat. I had just perched a few greasy chips as I was vortex ed into reality, under our sheets, with a sudden and common itchy nose. Whenever I wake-up prematurely I get the sniffles and most often a sneeze fest ensues. I usually end up stuffing both nostrils with twisted tissues and continue to catch the allergens via my cavernous mouth.

I calmly and directly say, "Sylvia, it's not time to get up yet," in that you are obviously not in the right room kind of guidance. I put my hand on her back and she willingly agrees that it's definitely not quite the right time for getting up, as she says in her cute Sylvia way, "Ooootay." I put on her glowing circle light of lions,flowers, and bears--which she calls the moon, and place another comforter over her in attempts to get her extra snugly.

A half hour passes, and this time I am still fighting my allergen attacks, stiff joints, and those early morning mindathons (similar to the compulsive before bed mind races, but this is more disconnected and silly). I am addicted to head space. I must ride the Ferris wheel if I am alert enough, until I get silly tired and fall back asleep.

The very presence of Sylvia in her wrinkled pajamas and fly away hair is so precious. She stands there so patiently beside my bed, waiting to see what Mama Bear says this time. I anchor up a side of cover like a tiny tent and ask if she'll snuggle me for a few minutes before we trek down the stairs. She crawls up and under the covers and mommy,daddy, and Sylvia form a "spooning train."

Then there is a moment. I see her hand gracefully fly up like she is sewing something delicate, and land just as gently, fingertips first on my arm, then a full painter like stroke. She continues to delicately touch my fingers,like that of someone not wanting to disturb the keys of luxurious grand piano,but to just pretend a little with an aura of a touch. The fairy dusting's electrify my heart: the dangle chain is pulled, the light is on, it's time to get up.

Still here.

2010-04-19T09:29:00.004-04:00

As of late, by the phases of the moon, or the fateful deck of cards, both of our computers passed away, as if they had to die together-- how romantic. So, luckily with our tax refund we were able to replace our alternate brains. A new couch will have to wait for much much longer now :( In short, I am getting acquainted with Windows 7 and need to download my favorite blogging tool Picasa.

Expected blogs to come:

I went to a pasta making class
Ikea trip
Baby room purchases

Good Morning: This is The Day.

2010-04-11T09:27:00.008-04:00

Artist: The The "This is The Day"

Yesterday morning, in the kitchen, Sylvia and I had an impromptu dance session to this song as it randomly was the next i-pod shuffle song. It's such a great morning song! One to add to a jump and jive morning compilation fo sho!

*Breakfast for your soul lyric: "This is the day your life will surely change."

Kitchen Revamp.

2010-04-09T07:32:00.005-04:00

Let's talk about some kitchen decor/design concepts:

This is our kitchen den space. I knew there was enough space for seating, but I was having a difficult time figuring out exactly what I wanted to go there. Fortunately enough, these chairs were remixed from our porch to this area. It's always my first rule of thumb in redecorating: shop in your own house first, then actually go shopping if need be. I am the opposite of a hoarder, I despise unnecessary things and so I like to edit a lot; not that I don't carry around my own clutter shadow here and there (more piles than I'm proud of actually). I have a lot of wicker going on in my kitchen: wicka wicka wicker! hahaha, but it's cohesion. These cushions were the answer to creating definition to all the wicker. Black and White are my accent color combos-- it's kind of a signature for me to use those two. I really like black and white with neutrals and colors.
About the chairs: I bought them at Pier One during a clearance sale about 2 yrs. ago. I love the wing back and the wicker-iron combo. The cushions I just bought a week ago at my favorite place to buy home goods, besides thrift stores and flea markets: yes folks, TJ Maxx. They rarely seem to disappoint with their inventory.

This is our current kitchen island. It's appealing in it's inudstrial goes cottage look. However, I am over the open shelving, because I currently need it for storing our big appliances and not lovely tall canisters of beans and flour like I'd love to see there. I have enjoyed the novelty attached pot rack since there is no room above our island to hang a rack because a fan is right there-- although I have to position the pots on both sides instead of all over because you can't see through to anyone else if you are having a conversation. Kitchens to me are just as much about conversation as they are about making food.
The other day I received my Crate and Barrel Spring Catalog. The Belmont Kitchen Island became my answer to the switch out. Of course it's going to take me awhile to save up for it, and hopefully by the time that I do it will still be in stock (cross fingers). The measurements are just a couple more inches bigger in length and depth then our current island. There are two major points here:

Hidden deep storage for pots
The pull out leaf where we can add a couple bar stools. This is important to me because there has already been times when I want Sylvia to watch me prep or help me prep some food and it's just impossible.

The black will look pretty sharp in the middle too -- giving way to a heavier middle amongst all the light pine woods. a.k.a gravitize towards the middle everybody!<>

Spring River Stroll

2010-04-08T21:37:00.003-04:00

(Ohio River Bridge between Marietta,OH and Willamstown,WV)

Pure Happiness.

5 a.m. is Not my Sunshiney Hour.

2010-04-08T06:31:00.006-04:00

Hi, I like to write when I'm grumpy. It makes me happy, so that is good. I'm pretty tired. Sylvia got up at 5 a.m. Why o why does she always go back to that time, even after the forwarding and backwarding of the clocks?...5 a.m. seems to be constant. I am putting blinds on our Ikea list. I will figure this out like a scientist.

My calves are inflamed from some righteous charlie horses the other night. This happened to me while I was pregnant with Sylvia too. I'm eating my bananas, but apparently that's not enough to stop them. Of course, I am ashamed at my sugar intake this week. We have more candy from Easter then from Halloween. I need someone to hide it from me-- I'm too weak.

I didn't get to finish my table yesterday :( I won't be able to touch it again until the evening because I don't want to risk Sylvia getting into the wet black paint. I figure evening painting is the best way to go so it has hours to dry before morning. I'm so smart. Don't even ask if I took pictures of my Ebay lot that sits beside me like a neglected pile of "What are you going to do with me? because in the mean time I'm just going to radiate clutter pile and drive you mad until you do something with me."

And to think yesterday I decided I didn't want to openly complain as much because I think it's unattractive. But, like I said, I'm tired and grumpy and writing makes me happy... Feeling better now. Thanks for listening readers.

I feel like an untamed cowlick.

Day Off List

2010-04-07T06:50:00.006-04:00

What I'd Like to Accomplish Today:

Go to Home Depot and pick up a quart of high gloss black paint.
Paint our coffee table said glossy black.
Take eBay photos while watching Up in The Air (that I have had for over a week--yikes).
Dust and mop the upstairs. While cleaning, gather up remaining Goodwill donations.
*Bonus: drop off Goodwill donations.
*Bonus Luxury: Nap.
**High Hopes: This evening after Sylvia goes to sleep set up shop on eBay.

Little Lady

2010-04-06T21:37:00.002-04:00

Sylvia,

You are a style icon to me already.

Why?

You are Authentic.

To: Be

To: Be YOU.

No one can take away your YOU-ness.

The only way it is taken is if we take it away from ourselves, by hiding it.

You let it ~~Shine~~

Watch out for Dopey and Grumpy (not the dwarfs).

2010-04-02T06:48:00.005-04:00

sip sip sipping hazelnut joe, feeling like a body of wet compact sand. so comes the 3rd trimester! i haven't felt that mentally disjointed until now. i guess the 40 point IQ dip that is a fact of pregnancy is fully maximized right about NOW. i have always had the A.D.D. (more on that later-- plenty of comical insights there),but it's been exaggerated these past few days. the best directions i can give someone are: go past the stardust, take a turn at the milky way, and meet me by the ice-box in la la land and we'll gossip there. i've started to get a grumpy undertone because i feel like i can't quite stay on task with anything without slipping away to something else like i am at a square dance with my chores "Grab your broom round and round meet you in another realm." Eww,the sink is dirty, eww, there's my stack of recipes, eww, where's my list?, eww,Ellen is on, wait, need to get the laundry and while I'm at it bring up those plates, I'm hungry again :)

Inspiration: Lounge.

2010-03-31T16:43:00.005-04:00

Cowl Neck Pull Over Sweater

Can yout tell I'm already getting excited to shop for regular clothing? I also know that right after I deliver, for a good 3 months, I basically live in yoga pants. I think this lounge top is chic enough to match with yoga or lounge pants for a walk around town or a grocery store run, and definitly hit enough to pair with a great pair of earrings and jeans.

(image via: Ann Taylor Loft)

Forever & ever & ever!

2010-03-31T14:51:00.003-04:00

I love seeing my honey and my baby holding hands.

I was the happy onlooker taking the photograph.

Bump Along:

2010-03-30T07:47:00.005-04:00

24 weeks (6 Months): Last Lap!

My appetite is full force! I remember this time last time and it is a slippery slope into fat suit. I am a foodie, one. Being that I am a foodie, with an insatiable appetite for pastries, does not help, two. And so I have a crippling ability to "Just Say No," with a forceful hunger coupled with my special cravings of white sugar and carbohydrates + milk always, three. I'd like to say though, that so far I have been able to semi- keep myself in check, but it is getting pretty difficult. I still enjoy my 10 p.m. bowl of cereal post dinner. It's amazing how you can fit in another meal right after the biggest meal of the day and feel as though you ate nothing that evening--perplexing really, but I know it's for building up baby and of course my behind ;)
Alexandria has such a smooth rhythm in my belly. I like to lie on my side and feel the tiny rolls and send my loving energy through.
I've also avoided the leg/ankle swelling so far. I think chasing after Sylvia has helped in this greatly as I am always moving ~ keeping up circulation.

4. I really like calling her Ally.

Can you A.spare.a.gus?

2010-03-29T11:01:00.003-04:00

Over at Jamie Oliver, I came across this crispy and delicious asparagus and potato tart. um, YUM! I think this would make a great Spring picnic treat! Just thought I'd share ;)

Lingering through the rest of March.

2010-03-27T09:05:00.004-04:00

So, like two metal pans clanging, I have come to the stark and reverberating realization that I will (hopefully)have 3 solid months left come April before lil Alexandria arrives. 3 is a magical number. I find it calming, but yet I know all that I would like to happen before then is surmounting and I get a little manical. Thankfully, by evolutionary sakes, I shall be encompassed by the "nesting" bug in the next couple of months and all shall be creatively, and meticulously folded and cleaned and spruced before the big day. I mean last time with Sylvia, I was actually folding (very neatly) bits and pieces of Christmas wrapping paper to save.

*Technically the baby isn't due until July 18, but I would like to have a week or so in July to just primp her room and daydream about her being here.

Good Morning.

2010-03-26T08:01:00.002-04:00

Artist Spotlight: Au Revoir Simone

This group has entered into my favorite collection:haunting vocals, thought provoking poetic lyrics, streaming synth rock pop that echoes the beat of my heart.

Enjoy!

Aunt Bethie comes to visit!

2010-03-25T21:09:00.002-04:00

Sylvia loves her Aunt Bethie! And so do the rest of us!

She knows how to bring the fun! Sylvia was swept up in

her love and they played like best buds.

***

Come back soon BETH!

And then there were Park Days once again. God Bless the Sunshine!

2010-03-25T20:50:00.002-04:00

I was so proud and slightly scared of Sylvia climbing up the

majorly steep iron slide from the mid 20th Century.

She likes to peek her head through the jungle gym holes and most often asks for kisses.

I love this picture: the eye squint, the rusty blue rails, the spindly branches, the big blue fondant sky with whips of cloud.

Angelic orb. Sparkly slide. Spring is HERE.

I like your shirt! Yours too!

2010-03-25T20:38:00.003-04:00

Sylvia met up with Grayson at her house. Apparently both thought their Carter's flower power tunic was the shirt for the day! Of course, I needed to document this. Of course :)

Sylvia O's

2010-03-16T11:57:00.002-04:00

I found these 70's inspired bug eyed sunglasses at our favorite discount store: Gabriel Brothers.

Sylvia gravitates towards the accessories (hmm? apple fall far from the tree?) But Good Grief are these

not the best shades for a toddler? I wish they had them in my size (well, they pretty much fit my small head anyway). I don't know how I handle this much cuteness everyday! Seriously!

Chicken Dinner

2010-03-15T16:11:00.003-04:00

The other night, the semi- creative cook came back alive with in me. I barely recognized her, but took her advice promptly. Promptly is the way it goes with any dinner throw down these days with a toddler. This is what I came up with in a flash and it was super duper yummy and healthy to boot! Everything I want my dinners to be daily, but the super rad recipe diva only comes out to play when she is good and ready.

I call this: TMC (not the movie channel, but: Tomato,Mozzarella, and Chicken) & of Cous-Cous Balsamic Too!

Ingredients and Supplies:

9x13 baking dish
foil to cover
3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (trim fat)
4 side sliced vine- ripened tomatoes (holla!)
3 slices of mozzarella cheese
2-4 cups tomato & spinach cous cous (made to packages directions)
The Goddess her self: A drizzle by the neck of Balsamic Vinegar. (maybe 4 tbs-- use as much as you can handle-wink!)
EVOO
Salt and Pepper

Directions:

preheat the oven to 375 degrees
trim the fat off the chicken breast- place in baking dish- sprinkle with Kosher salt and black pepper, flip and do the same thing.
drizzle all over with EVOO
cover with foil
bake for 50 minutes
*Start to prepare cous cous
Take out of oven and place each piece of chicken with a slice of cheese and line 3 pieces of sliced tomato on top of that, recover, put back in oven for *10 minutes
Take chicken out and place each piece over a handful of cous cous already scooped on the plate.
Drizzle the whole dish with as much Balsamic vinegar as you'd like! ;)

Let me know what you all think if you try this! Or come on over and I'll make it for ya!

Bump Along: 22 Weeks

2010-03-15T15:54:00.003-04:00

22 Weeks

1. People make confident assumptions now about my pregnancy like: "Are you sure you don't want dessert? ' I think your baby wants some chocolate!"

2. I feel the wiggles in my abdomen. And when I say wiggles I mean it feels like jello wiggles.

3. Sylvia talks about her sister coming in the Summer. We have been telling her, her name is Ally, since Alexandria is even a mouth full for us. Plus, that's adorable right? Jonathan and I have decided to call her Alex as our nickname. I just love that!

4. It may be her position at this point, but she seems to be pretty content in there. I don't feel any hectic movement, just a rumble roll here and there-- mainly in the morning and in the evening.

NAUTICAL STRIPE FLATS

2010-03-12T07:51:00.002-05:00

NAUTICAL STRIPE FLATS

These are only $12.80 from Forever 21. I wonder how they feel? I am looking for a pair like this, but when they are so affordable it makes me wonder if I will tear them up quickly. May still be on the look out.

Posted using ShareThis

Weekend.

2010-03-12T06:25:00.009-05:00

Coffee Coffee You're the Best! You help me deal with no Rest! ah, that's bad. IYIYI.

painting our dining room Jamaican Bay Blue (need one poppy oceanesque room). Won't get to it this weekend, but hope to tape the room off. Plus we are using Behr paint with it's own mixed in primer. It has very very low VOC's, so all I'll need is a face mask.

determined to get all of my stuff on eBay by Sunday.

Getting my hair dyed a dark rich brown Saturday morning. Jillian Harris {pictured above} from the last Bachelorette show is my inspiration. I' d actually like to grow my hair like hers and sport those thick side bangs as well.
The rest of the weekend I plan on working very hard on this atrociously messy house of ours. I am very far behind in upkeep since we have been sick, and I contracted a nice head cold once again this week and woke up with another lovely cold sore badge. Pregnancy has made me very vulnerable to all of the cold strains :(

(image via: The Insider).

Alexandria Nico Harris

2010-03-11T16:20:00.003-05:00

A.N.H./ Ultra Sound Photos/Week 20

How beautiful is my baby? :) Judging by the top right picture of her face I think it may be oval this time like mine.

The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow!

2010-03-10T11:00:00.003-05:00

Is this song not the epitome of cute and true? My friend Beth reminded me of this song after she read my post yesterday about Tomorrow (which is really today). "The sun will come out tomorrow!..." Hopefully the sun will stay out now! NO MORE SNOW!

Tomorrow.

2010-03-08T21:56:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow,
You are so elegant in the day's priors night. You float unattached and completely possible. You are forming with the hours and I am taking part in that forming, hoping in the text of unwritten will dos and yeses. It seems so tranquil to pull the day over my head and wake up into the next-- full. alive.well. willing. able to spring up from the dreaming abruptly or not. It is when I greet you, tomorrow, that I must be what I have expected of you to be: smooth, flowing, accepting, eager, intrigued, valuable, amusing, optimistic, inspiring, and thoughtfully challenging and rewarding. Why is it every.day. I dream of you tomorrow, as my escape from madness, as my answer to today? I feel I take advantage of the blank slate of tomorrow, of the absolute to: be.

I want to feel the awe of tomorrow in any present moment, without the wanting, instead with the being.full.

Weekend.

2010-03-05T07:54:00.005-05:00

Sylvia wanted to wear my hat yesterday. I think she looks like a Little me!

I'm feeling a little crazy this Friday morning. The past week has been arduous. Sylvia has been sick with something for over a month. Not one thing, but one thing after another. I shared in most of these sicknesses. This past week however, she was dealt the unfortunate card of the cold sores. I truly hope I wasn't responsible for the infection, as I had a cold sore on my mouth a few days before she had an outbreak ;( Hers appeared on her gums. I read that the first outbreak for those as young as Sylvia are usually between 1-10 sores. She was MISERABLE! She had lots of milk and push up sorbet pops to help the burning. The misery echoed in tantrums for a few days. Tantrums take the strength right out of my bones and the moisture out my eyes and sedates my brain power. I knew that all that could be done was to comfort her and to keep the ice-cream coming. Needless to say, I have neglected my own hygiene and the upkeep of the house. Sleep is so important.

***

I also went and saw a physical therapist about my knee pain. I've been having this pain off and on for over a year, and it flames up when I am doing weight bearing things like dancing or yoga. Well, I was starting to feel pretty crappy after I took a prenatal yoga class and came home with that darn joint pain when I was doing simple things like going up and down the stairs. From what the therapist could tell without an MRI, was that I have most definitely worn down cartilage on one side of my knee. I have gotten my knee off kilter and it has caused this,you never want to hear this, "irreversible damage." I was basically told, by the shape of my legs and by the mere abuse I have done to myself :retail, doing more than I should with a lot of things in my hands as a mother, that I've accelerated this progression and that age has something do with it too. I am only 28 though! No 22, but whatever! I was also told that I should probably never run again or do any squats. I am to do low impact joint work outs like the elliptical or cycling. So, now I am in the process of leg strengthening. By building up the top and bottom muscles in my legs I am going to help recenter my knee and take the pressure off the "bone on bone" grinding-- which is what the exact pain is. I should of listened to my elders when I worked at Jcpenney. They told me to slow down and that I was going to hurt myself. You have to see me at work to know how absolutely crazy I would get. I run off of guilt, and by God, they made me feel guilty at that job. I was to make the impossible possible at this retail job: at any second the store should look as though no one has even shopped there. I knew that was an impossiblity, but I have some O.C.D. issues and take a lot of pride in something I have just made to look neat, and so I would endlessly and tiredly attempt to make the place immaculate in the most destructive of environments-- a big chain, catering to every demographic price wise, department store sales floor. I wish I could say that guilt has played no role in my last two years of being a mother, but that is where I have felt the most guilt. I try to do everything in a big swoop to manage my time, like carry all the groceries and the infant carrier whilst digging for keys, dropping this and that perhaps on the way to the door-- squatting (grimace) to pick up that pack of raisins while still holding everything! I have learned a major life lesson: THINGS CAN WAIT! TAKE YOUR TIME! BE CAREFUL & THINK OF YOURSELF!

***

So this weekend I have a few fun things planned including: seeing Alice and Wonderland, taking a sushi making class, and by all means getting this Spring Cleaning stuff started so I feel sane again! I just feel completely overwhelmed at the moment, but I can truck through this, but of course with ease, with ease.

Baby Bedding

2010-03-02T09:51:00.003-05:00

Dwell Studio Tulip Bedding Collection

When we were at Target last weekend, before I knew I was having a girl, I saw this bedding and it spoke to me. It said,"Look at my Warhol like tulips, aren't they fabulous?" I really like this print and I wanted to go really girly with the decor this time around. Plus, I love tulips!

I'm so funny, sometimes it takes me no time at all to find exactly what I want. When I have made up my mind I don't even have the desire to compare shop. I think this is it. I'll take the collection!

We are having:

2010-03-02T06:34:00.006-05:00

A baby Girl!

Her name will be: Alexandria Nico Harris

Yesterday, My left eyelid was twitching, as it has been known to do in the past, due to some anxiety driven stimuli: college math for an entire semester practically and my driver's test at 16- notably when I was about to parallel park (which I did wonderfully by the way, thanks to the ultra geometric mind centered and very detailed oriented instructions from my Libra born father). Well, yesterday, I couldn't fool the ol' nervous system with my mind stuck in the ticking mode of: Is it a boy or is it a girl? I am about 94% that this is going to be our last addition to the family, besides maybe a dog down the road. So, if I were not to have a boy, there would be the vanishing of that hope and that experience. However, I will not lie, I am a girl's girl. I love the delicate and complex souls of women and as dainty as femininity is in the ideal I believe girls develop into these natural maternal warriors-- whether they have children of their own or not. We are made to love in consolation,I think. Plus, sisterhood is magical-- truly. I have an almost telepathic (and maybe we do) connection with my sisters. I can barely make a movement and they can without much fail, know exactly how I'm feeling and vice-versa. Growing up with my sisters was an enchanting experience: playing dolls all day, pretending to be mommies together with our plastic babies, riding bikes, making up dances, fixing each other's hair, talking about boys, and having the most intimate security with secrets to this day I have with no one else. I am so excited Sylvia and Alexandria will have this special bond.

Seeing that little girl all curled up so comfortably, watching the flickering of the heart chambers and the smooth row of escalating spine, all perfectly assembled and limber, and the bouncing head and moving arms...holding Jonathan's smooth hand while watching this picture show of life, was indeed heart quenching. We made her. We made her with love.

I cannot wait to meet my daughter this Summer.

Ultra sound pictures to follow soon!

Romance is in the Mundane.

2010-02-23T20:59:00.008-05:00

I just feel like I want to note a couple of romantic things my husband has done in the past few days, and when I say romantic I don't mean ooey gooey - borderline to totally cheesy (Jonathan and I both grimace at ultra syrupy, sound the stage crew, overly produced lovey gestures;we both literally squirm at such sights as if we were being tortured). That said, I feel it is necessary to document these gestures, because they really were just him loving me and as much as I'm not so romantic, I am a bit sentimental nostalgic. One of the big reasons I blog and journal is as a safety in words (of course writing in general is my 2nd passion to painting)in case I ever get Alzheimer's or some other mind degenerative disease. My grandfather succumbed to it and so I am a little frightened it could have been passed to me. Therefore, if I were to get the disease or something like it, someone can read these to me and quell me momentarily (not to be too morbid).

I must rememember these tokens of adoration:

Valentines day: he bought me a huge bag of Charms suckers. I am a sucker for suckers and hard fruity candies. It's so nice to be known this way.

After a shopping trip for household items, Jonathan picked me up the magazine: Real Simple. He thought I'd just like to read it and didn't think I had the subscription (which are mounting higher and higher these days), and he knows I get completely enthralled with well staged photos concerning organization and being organized as creatively and cheaply as possible for that matter-- as Real Simple is known for.

Sylvia's Atop of the Couch Bed.

2010-02-22T19:44:00.002-05:00

Sylvia's philosophy: Wherever you put your pillow--that is your bed.

Bump Along:

2010-02-22T19:43:00.004-05:00

19 Weeks

1. I'm finally getting past looking like I have a donut problem.

2. The shirt is an Old Navy regular women's shirt. I wonder how much longer I can pull that off?

3. I have been asking Sylvia for awhile if she thinks I'm having a boy or a girl? I also ask if she thinks I am having a brother or a sister? Well, finally yesterday she answered Sister. We'll know Monday! (I'm more excited than finding Anthropolgie clearance at Gabriel Brothers!!).

Good Morning.

2010-02-22T08:11:00.004-05:00

Breakfast Mug and Saucer Sets

I am starting to declutter or Spring Clean. It's almost a natural process or inclination around this time of year, despite the cliche' ritual to: minimalize, sort, clean, wash, sell, and scour for things bright & colorful, organic even, something that is revitalizing, after months of dark cold gray days. The mugs pictured above are a perfect example. I find them cheery and Mad Hatterish-- being extra big saucer cups. These can be filled with fresh fruit and oatmeal, scrambled eggs, cereal, coffee, soup even. I can imagine how useful and cute these will be over the years. Yup, they are being added to my kitchen accessory wish list.

Apart of my Spring Cleaning process is going through my kitchen and figuring out what is working and what is not. Also, I like things to have a certain matchy matchy- non matchy matchy chemistry. I plan on having a yardsale in the Spring, donating to Goodwill, and putting a stack of stuff on Ebay. Hummm... it feels so good to have a plan and to tidy things up!

(image via: Crate and Barrel)

Weekend.

2010-02-19T07:38:00.003-05:00

Weekend Wish List:

snuggle my husband during quiet times
make the following week's meal plan
record Sylvia pretend ice-skating
attempt to achieve this Six Things to Do Everyday checklist concerning house cleaning. (I love lists and checklists for that matter). Plus I have faith in Martha Stewart's domestic organizing skillz.
Look at paint samples for painting projects.
Basically have a low-key chill out lingering weekend. Watching a movie, painting my nails, or working on my paintings would be awesome.

Back Tracking: My Birthday: 2.10.2010

2010-02-16T08:59:00.011-05:00

Dinner at The Buckley House:

A Mediterranean Restaurant a couple blocks from our house.

I just realized how cool the date was for my birthday: 2.10.2010 (very neato). Well, let's just say that I got spoiled that day. I was showered with gifts and sweets from family. I felt very blessed and fussed over :) I will note my husband left a Keurig Elite Coffee Sytem on the dining room table for me to be suprised with. I didn't even notice it until hours into my morning when I finally stepped in that room. And, as you all know my adoration for coffee, then you all can guess I was holding myself back from hugging the box and got a little teary-eyed. Possibly the reaction some girls might have to diamonds, I have with a coffee maker,eh. I got to brewing pretty quickly and HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS COFFEE MAKER! Steaming hot coffee, a bevy of choices per your tongue's request by single serving K-cups. Just genius and revolutionary. Here here to not having to rinse out the granules ever again! Even though I still didn't get a chance to really doll up that day, I felt special. Going to The Buckley House is our place to go for special occiasions or whenever we want to spoil ourselves with high dining. On our way there my evening was brightened even more by seeing Green Lady, a beautiful old lady who is always decked out in green and sixties attire and flowing white curls sporting high boots and mini dresses, mostly. She has an air about her that is true resolve and bliss. Spotting her is like spotting a four leaf clover. I must add a couple of things: She is usually running with her big blonde lab in her boots and that night was no different. However, it was blistering cold outside, I mean blistering, with a pretty signifcant snow fall on the ground and she was running at night with her dog at the park across from the restaurant. Running like a streaming green ribbon, fluidly making a labryinth in the snow with her running tracks. I find her spirit beautiful and I don't even know her personally. Now, getting back to the dinner; when we got there we practically had the place to ourselves because of the weather (another magical occurance). Before our meal, Jonathan handed me "the blue box," with a very cute hand written card including a hand drawn picture of a key going through a heart. Tiffany Blue is gorgeous! I was given a titanium Tiffany Key pendant: a charcoal, indestructable, whimsical in styling, key. I am not usually one for nicer jewlery, but I had been allured by these keys for some time. What a beautiful suprise! I will wear it forever. After our 4 star meal including: rainbow trout and curried cous cous, we shared a couple pieces of homemade baklava made on the premise daily~~in.cr(edible). 28 feels like I am saturated in adulthood and there's no looking back. I seem to enjoy whatever age I am because I feel like I have worked hard to get there.

Good Morning.

2010-02-16T08:34:00.004-05:00

My Favorite Way to Start My Day:

Blueberry Eggos smeared with peanutbutter

Piping hot Hazelnut Joe.

Let the Reading Begin!

2010-02-15T08:02:00.007-05:00

(image via: Anthropologie)

A week or so ago, I had the privy of a girl's night out. Well, a mothers' night out. I picked up my friend Kate, who has two young ones at home, and we went to Panera for some pastries and lattes. After a rejuvenating banter of motherhood and the like, we ventured over to Borders and were bound to looking for ourselves, until of course we see the bargain aisle for kids. Kids come first. We wandered over to the literature section and were both struck with the fancy pants covers of the Penguin classics. The shallow, judging a book by it's cover, side of me was big-eyed and hungry for those books to be a decorative display in my house: be it bedside or bookshelves-- these books were dazzling pieces of decorative art, despite being the transcendental classic pieces of literature that fill the insides. I had briefly told Kate that it is a dream or a bucket list item of mine that I read the classics. She was completely giddy and lit up saying,"We should read them together and talk about them afterwards' Let's start with Jane Austen." Um, * I have always wanted a friend to do this with. Well, a proximal friend because it's just easier to meet up bi-weekly or whatever that way. So, I'm a little rusty at reading hard literature, with the added decoding of 19th Century jargon, but I am taking this as a mental challenge. My brain needs some electricity weight lifting. As I have started to read just the introduction of Sense and Sensibility, I think it is going to be a wonderful start to my reading journey as it seems to be a maternal and aesthetic based book.

Inspiration: Bedroom

2010-02-12T21:18:00.004-05:00

Whenever I have a free moment my mind generally goes to Decorating. I will be painting and redoing our room this Summer hopefully, and as soon as I came across this bedroom I fell madly in love with the inverse affect of lightness. The plum-brown (as they say)wall color is a little more rich then a chocolate brown and a little less earthy too. The red undertone makes it lusciously decadent. I love how crisp the whites stand out. I love how it anchors the whimsical sketches dearly: making the linens and light artwork seem like little dollops of cream throughout the room. I could imagine I was sleeping on a cloud while having my head in the clouds. Dark walls+ light linens+ sketches+ punches of whimsy.

( image via: Country Living)

Weekend. L.O.V.E.

2010-02-12T07:27:00.004-05:00

*ee cummings is my favorite poet of all time.

here is one of my favorite love poems of his:

i like my body when it is with your

i like my body when it is with your
body. It is so quite a new thing.
Muscles better and nerves more.
i like your body. i like what it does,
i like its hows. i like to feel the spine
of your body and its bones, and the trembling
-firm-smooth ness and which i will
again and again and again
kiss, i like kissing this and that of you,
i like,, slowly stroking the, shocking fuzz
of your electric fur, and what-is-it comes
over parting flesh . . . . And eyes big Love-crumbs,

and possibly i like the thrill

of under me you quite so new

ee cummings

Also, I found this  This Print that I find lovey and Lovely whenever. A good print is a good print. here here!