The Peach Tree

Remember to be....

2011-10-12T09:57:00.000-04:00

from AisletoAlohaStudio

It's such an easy thing to overlook sometimes :)

They say no man is an island

2011-10-11T09:52:00.001-04:00

This is Robins Island. Though no man may BE an island, one man OWNS this island.

Though it looks as though the current owner has done right by preserving its natural beauty and well-being, it still just doesn't seem right.

I've seen a lot of bikes in my travels...

2011-10-07T09:21:00.001-04:00

But this one is pretty out of this world!

One of the things I miss about having my nieces in town?

2011-10-05T10:19:00.001-04:00

Bringing toys out to dinner :)

Subway Sweets

2011-09-29T11:38:00.000-04:00

I wanted a purple one. Darn not carrying cash on me!

A mushroom grows in Brooklyn

2011-09-28T13:01:00.000-04:00

I very much wanted to take a piece from one half to see if it would make me bigger and then the other half to see if it would make me smaller :)

Bunny Astronaut

2011-09-27T10:17:00.001-04:00

Single design Bunny Astronaut from OriginalBunny

This bunny is driving me wild. And he wears an A. I believe it to be fate :) Come to me little bunny!!

Beavers love Blue Mittens

2011-09-22T11:15:00.000-04:00

Beavers Love Blue Mittens Illustration from corelladesign

Apparently I'm a sucker for animals this week :) But he DOES look like he loves those mittens!!

Do you think I'm pretty?

2011-09-21T11:05:00.000-04:00

Pretty Kitties - Blank Card from franticmeerkat

This cracks me up 10 fold. Animals as humans never gets old!

.. oh, if I have to

2011-09-15T09:27:00.002-04:00

I did grow up in Wisconsin.

Eat More Cheese - Lino Print from funnelcloud

You do not have to tell me twice.

As cute as this...

2011-09-14T08:58:00.000-04:00

I had a pet mouse growing up. His name was Romeo and he was as cute as this little guy.

Fancy Rat Pin from caitlynharris

I built him long, intricate mazes by propping books against each other and leaving a treat at the finish. He almost never cheated by sticking his paws on top and looking for the end.

Fall Color Report

2011-09-12T07:52:00.000-04:00

I must admit, the tomboy inside me is still a bit in denial over being a part of the fashion industry. I'm learning to embrace it any chance I can get though :) One thing I'm sure to check out each season is Pantone's color trends. Here's their lineup this fall (I've paired my pieces w/each to give a tangible idea of shade) and I'm extremely excited about all of them!

I'm having an Autumn sale this week to celebrate the start of the season as well! Use code SEPTEMBER for 20% OFF your total purchase :)

Here's to crunching leaves and sipping tea!
Amy

Alive and Well

2011-08-31T11:01:00.000-04:00

Hi Guys!

I wanted to leave a quick note to let you know we weathered the storm. The only tragedy near us was the toppling of a gorgeous 80yr old tree. It's been devastating watching the towns up and down the coast salvage and recover since Irene's passing.

My head has been a bit in the clouds which could be why my latest color obsession is the Marshmallow shade by Essie. There's something soothing in its starkness :)

Well wishes to you all and have a wonderful end to your summer!
Amy

Summer allergies are the pits!

2011-08-29T09:30:00.000-04:00

This tree has been kicking my butt lately. It's pretty, don't get me wrong :) But those little white flower puffs keep getting bigger and bigger!

ha-chooo!

Moving on up!

2011-08-26T09:19:00.004-04:00

We're headed to the Highline park today! It took us a few years to finally get up there but it's fastly becoming my favorite relaxation destination.

We plan to explain some of the tall buildings to our nieces, eat locally made popsicles and splash around in the floor fountain :)

Have a great day!

2011-08-25T09:15:00.001-04:00

I came across the most beautiful little carriage house this morning! I imagine a little horse and buggy parked out back :)

Take a walk on the wild side

2011-08-24T09:13:00.001-04:00

I'll gladly walk a few blocks out of the way to pass by my favorite patch of flowers :) These black-eyed susans always look so darn happy!

Oh yes they did

2011-08-23T09:11:00.000-04:00

It's not just that they taped a mirror to their car. It's not just that they used hot pink tape. It's that they didn't break the handle off of the mirror that they taped to their car with hot pink tape.

Yeah, I think that's what it is :)

Peach Picks: End of Summer

2011-08-18T09:16:00.001-04:00

This year is going super fast. Though I believe we all must say that every year :) I always feel the end of summer coming when my brother and his family visit. It's our last big hurrah with the city, matching around gaping at buildings like silly tourists. After living here for 10 years, it's a refreshing change from the rush rush rush, gotta get there attitude!

Vintage 50s jersey dress from ramblervintage

Large Tote bag from 464Handmade

shark head 7 original drawing from katep

Shark Teeth Fossils from Maryshome

Sunflower PomPom Hat from tortillagirl

Genuine Leather iPhone Sleeve from RobbieMoto

Nutmeg Print from DeliciousShots

Soap Cupcake from sunbasilgarden

It's been a long time since I've done a Peach Picks and I LOVED putting this one together! I'm going to do my best to change things up a little bit more. My insights on city life photos a fun for me though!

I hope you all are having a wonderful summer :)

I listen to Street Poles

2011-08-17T14:23:00.000-04:00

Not at all like seeing dead people, but you get the idea :)

High Rise Greenery

2011-08-16T10:30:00.001-04:00

While I do think prefer the earth beneath my feet and the trees overhead, rooftop gardening is a lovely alternative for the green hungry :)

Do you get down and dirty??

Why yes, I DO live in Brooklyn

2011-08-15T15:21:00.001-04:00

Some days I forget. Other days I'm reminded en force :)

What reminds you of where you live?

Be Civil to All...

2011-08-10T09:47:00.001-04:00

While this restaurant's menu be let to speak for itself, they thought it better to post life lessons for the passersby :)

Be civil to all;
sociable to many;
familiar with few;
friend to one;
enemy to none.
-Benjamin Franklin

(I apologize for the dark and grainy photo but it was dark and grainy out)

Spelling it out.

2011-08-09T09:42:00.001-04:00

While the storms have given the humidity a bit of a run for it's money, I still thought this quite suiting for these thick, steamy dog days of summer :)

I'm not sure what they'll do when someone wants to purchase the O...

I don't remember what he played...

2011-08-08T09:37:00.001-04:00

... but boy did I love hearing him play it :)

Over the weekend we happened by one of our old local haunts and stopped in for a pint of nostalgia. We sat at the high table near the door, right across from this wonderfully rickety old piano. The man hasn't taken a lesson in his life but he sure can make some beautiful music!

Falling for Summer

2011-08-05T09:44:00.001-04:00

Meet the London Planetree. You'll find lines and valleys of them all throughout Brooklyn. I've come to find out it's because they're a very hearty breed that can withstand the smog and pollution of an urban environment.

For some time I've noticed that they drop their leaves not only in winter but in summer as well. It's so strange to go crunching down the block in 90+ degree weather! After doing some research, I've found that that high temperature is actually why they've fallen. The trees are undergoing heat stress!

I patted this one reassuringly, telling it this too shall pass :)

Your Flavor Every Day

2011-08-04T09:55:00.002-04:00

I caught sight of this guy while walking down the subway platform early this morning. Now, I'm just dying to know what they were saying to him to get that expression on his face! We should all be so jovial :)

Maybe if I used coffee-mate I'd feel this way.... Hm.

Dunk-an-Agent

2011-08-03T09:49:00.000-04:00

If you could dunk anyone
(or a representative of anything),
who/what would it be??

Everyday Castles

2011-08-02T13:20:00.000-04:00

Some days I turn corners and find myself far far from home :)

One of my Favorite places

2011-08-01T10:34:00.003-04:00

People are often surprised when I tell them that one of my favorite NYC spots is the South Street Seaport. Surprised because it's a high traffic tourist spot but it has so much to offer! You have the waterfront views, tri-level outdoor eating, open air drinking along the boardwalk and an enchanting cobblestone surrounding I never tire of wandering through. Not to mention the free outdoor concerts all summer long :)

Laundry Day

2011-07-29T10:36:00.003-04:00

Over the last 2 years we've had both of the laundromats on our street burn down. Soooo, I invested in a sturdy granny cart to lug my delicates the nearly 10 blocks to the next closest location.

It turnout out to be much cheaper as it was on a quiet, out of the way street and I usually had it all to myself. Plus I could sit outside on a wee little bench and listen to the birds gossip. :)

Then this one opened only 4 doors down... It's strangely high tech (high tech = expensive apparently!) and play pop hip hop music (which stresses me out when I usually find doing laundry so relaxing). But it's so close!

Torn.

Ghosties and Goblins

2011-07-28T10:45:00.000-04:00

I walked by these critters the other day and they had me journeying back to childhood Halloween jaunts. I hated being scared so never participated in the haunted houses but man did I love the quest for candy and playing dress up :)

Potted Plants

2011-07-27T10:31:00.001-04:00

Look what I ran into on the sidewalk yesterday! I was so tempted to pluck a couple of these funky monkey fiddleheads but they were too cute as a little family :) And that would technically be stealing... though I have no idea if they were planted on purpose :)

The heat subsides

2011-07-26T09:25:00.000-04:00

Though the humidity is still lingering, the oppressive heat has taken a backseat to cooler breezes. I took a walk down the promenade to celebrate. I snapped this before I noticed the coyly positioned visitor posing in front of the skyline :)

Shop Christmas in July!

2011-07-18T12:57:00.001-04:00

It's that time of year! Many of my favorite shops on Etsy are torturing me with deals I just can't pass up! I thought I'd highlight a few:

1 - 20% of your order at letterhappy
2 - 15% off your order at TheWhirlwind
3 - 10% off your order at btaylorquilts
4 - $5 soap + 10% off your order at DancingMooney

I couldn't resist celebrating as well! Plug in code CIJ15 at checkout for 15% off your order at thePeachTree!

Have a wonderful week!
Amy

Happy Tuesday!

2011-07-12T09:54:00.000-04:00

Hey Guys!

Hope you're having a great week so far. I just came across this planetary plate and couldn't resist giving a quick share:

Vintage Outer Space Etched Brass Tray from bellalulu

I've also put together this month's Peach Picks for the LillyElla blog if you want to take a gander.

Continue onward toward a wonderful day!
Amy

Always something to say.

2011-07-07T11:41:00.000-04:00

All of our cats (we have 3) are named from movies. Sometimes, I swear, they embody their characters to a T. This morning Ruprecht looked at me as if to say:

"Excuse me. May I go to the bathroom first?"

A house.

2011-07-05T11:49:00.000-04:00

There's a house I dream about in the mountains of Mass. I joked with my boyfriend last week that when that house went up for sale, we should take that as a sign for us to move. While driving out of the area, I noticed a for sale tag in the yard. It's on the market.

Now to get my man to give up this city :)

What I've seen..

2011-07-01T12:34:00.001-04:00

Last weekend was Solid Sound.

It hardly feels like a week ago that we escaped the fast paced city life to revel in the wide open spaces of the Berkshires.

We even discovered a gigantic tag sale hosting the lowest priced antique finds I've ever seen. I had a handful of little trinkets and gems that they just told me to take.

Remember these?? Talk about a walk down memory lane!

I hope you guys are taking full advantage of the summer! I feel like it's flying by faster than a mouse in a cape!

Home Office

2011-06-30T12:28:00.000-04:00

This went on for 20min this morning while I caught up on emails in bed.

A Beautiful Giveaway

2011-06-29T11:36:00.000-04:00

For the last few months I've had the honor of supporting Ms. Elsie and her everyday extraordinary life over at A Beautiful Mess. This month I took the plunge into sponsoring a medium sized ad which includes an offering of a $50 gift card from my shop as well as goodies from a few other awesome places!

Run on over and enter to win if you're so inclined! And be sure to bookmark the blog while you're there, it's highly addictive.

Solid Sound or BUST

2011-06-28T13:02:00.000-04:00

Hi guys!

I apologize for my quiet demeanor the last few days while we were away for the 2nd annual Solid Sound Festival put on by Wilco.

I'll be back in full soon!

Hope you all had a fun weekend!
Amy

MIB 3

2011-06-20T10:20:00.000-04:00

While I don't watch Access Hollywood or know who's dating who, I do love walking through while they're shooting their movies and television shows :)

Last week I turn the corner to find blocks upon blocks of these old timey cars. Signs on the light poles mapped out their locations along with apologies for taking up car space. Though I didn't see any action, it definitely gave me that "something's happening here" feeling.

I love that about this city!

What I've seen..

2011-06-17T08:51:00.002-04:00

I had a quieter week this week, you? Maybe it's that summer is finally in full swing? Either way, I did see some interesting sights:

Including taking some time out for some wonderful people watching from a storefront window bench,

A wonderfully relaxing picnic lunch in Madison Square Park. I made my favorite Martha Stewart Sandwiches (which I only call that as I use her yummy dill, lemon, mayo, spicy mustard spread :)

Another entry into my ever growing list of car crushes,

And some hipster graffiti that went so far as to make me giggle.

What have you been up to??

Summer Special at thePeachTree!

2011-06-15T08:53:00.002-04:00

It's Summer in the city!

What's Trending
Neons (I've had serious flashbacks to my 80's childhood filled w/layered scrunched socks & off the shoulder numbers), Tribal pieces (My very favorite of the trends as it brings the peace & calm of nature into my bustling city life) and Geometrically inspired jewelry (Faux diamonds are a woman's new best friend!) are all the rage this season. Of course, I always like to keep the quiet, everyday staples in play as well!

Deal of the Day
I have a semi-daily "Deal of the Day" feature announced on my Facebook Page. From individual coupon codes to free matching pieces with purchase, I always try to make it interesting and offer something for everyone!

Summer Special this Week Only!
Take 25% off everything in the shop through Sun, June 19th using code MIDSUMMERP at checkout.

Now find some warm sand to sink those toes into! And if you'd like to keep up to date on the shop (since I try not to bombard you with posts here on the blog), sign up for my mailing list!
Amy

Live like a Queen.. Just for today.

2011-06-13T09:40:00.000-04:00

Queen of My Heart Pink Crown from twinssoon

Though it's celebrated at different times during the year depending on what country you reside, I thought we should all take today to celebrate the Queen's birthday with the rest of Australia :)

Stacking Ring from allminedesign

Ostrich Queen from poordogfarm

1980's Royal Blue Dress from stickylipgloss

royal blood. from handmadebybluebird

Edible GOLD Crowns from sweetdejavu

Let us eat cake, wear fancy dress and sip champagne till the day is done!

What I've seen..

2011-06-10T08:48:00.000-04:00

This week I decided to go au naturale (sans hipstamatic) with my discoveries.
Here's what I ran into:

My seasonal obsession in the shape of a bug,

The most delicious Crostini you could ever imagine tasting. I would have NEVER thought to pair gorgonzola, strawberries and Rhubarb jam. While looking for their site to link you, I've come to realize that they change their menu everyday. This means I may never have this tasty bite again!.. but I'll have the memories :)

The ghost of Marilyn lives on,

and the most enchanting place to be in Brooklyn on a warm summer everning is the Brooklyn Botanical Garden at night. Sipping thyme infused gin cocktails to boot!

Hope you had a wonderful week!
Amy

Me on most days...

2011-06-08T09:18:00.001-04:00

WORRY WART sculptures from blobhouse

In Bloom

2011-06-06T09:19:00.003-04:00

Have I mentioned just how much I love the trees in full bloom outside my window? While the brownstones across the street are a lovely burnt red, it's nice to have that lush green as a backdrop for a change :)

Speaking of lush backdrop, this month's Peach Picks are up on the LillyElla blog if you wanted to take a look. It's an ode to camping, hiking and being in the great outdoors!

Have a wonderful Monday!
Amy

What I've seen..

2011-06-03T09:38:00.001-04:00

I've had quite the eventful week:

Including Lower East Side hipsters (industrious ones at that!),

mini city dwellers donning rain gear,

a late night show
(See that tiny round bit of the drummer in headphones? That's my boyfriend :)

and the largest indoor Flea Market I've ever stepped foot in!

What have you been up to?

Photography 201

2011-06-01T12:19:00.000-04:00

I have to insist that you all check this out! Ruprecht bids it be so.

I had the opportunity to sit in on yet another amazing Etsy Workshop last Thursday. This one was a back to back 2-part series on Photography from Jessica of Miniature Rhino. Essentially, it's a step by step discussion on helping you set up your own professional looking product photos no matter what you have on hand or what kind of camera you may be using.

Don't sell on Etsy? This is also just a great introduction to camera basics and laying out beautiful shots no matter what the subject!

Part 1
Part 2

Take an hour, soak it in, and get back to me with your thoughts :)
Amy

What I've seen..

2011-05-27T09:25:00.001-04:00

Another phone update! This one includes a memory, a favorite courtyard, my birthday night and relaxation time with the Rupes:

What have you been up to?

Creatures among us.

2011-05-25T09:32:00.000-04:00

Golden Tiger Kitty from ArtByAmarose

I know this may seem silly, but I'm really taken aback sometimes at the little creatures that we have living with us. They're truly amazing and it's crazy to me to be able to have and watch their behavior within our everyday lives!

Of course one of them just started howling from the other room for no apparent reason...

Little Tiger from ColorfulPixelsByLife

Guilty Pleasures

2011-05-23T09:32:00.000-04:00

Clockwise from top left thefancylamb, sohomode,
rememberyesterday, sweetlyfallenbridal

One of my most tantalizing guilty pleasures is my monthly pedicure. Just walking by the salon and smelling the noxious potions and elixirs is enough to make me wish for a time machine so that I can be back in that tucked away booth, sipping hot green tea from a sweet flowered teacup.

On my last visit I strayed from my usual pearly white and went for the perfect shade of Robin's Egg Blue. I don't know what it is about this color! I haven't been able to get enough of it ever since :)

Purple Honey - An NYC love story

2011-05-20T09:30:00.004-04:00

Stop what you're doing! Do me this favor: take 10 minutes, watch this video:

A friend of mine took full advantage of living and loving in the city to propose to his girlfriend. It gives me chills every time I see it :)

Congratulations Tom and Heather!

What I've seen..

2011-05-19T11:22:00.000-04:00

I did one of my rare phone updates recently and went through some of the photos I'd taken from around town. I couldn't resist sharing a few:

Remember to keep your eyes open out there :)

Final Mission

2011-05-16T09:24:00.000-04:00

Good morning!

I got to the computer just in time this morning to see the final launch of the Space Shuttle Endeavour! Talk about chills :)

Have a wonderful Monday!

Peach Picks: Floral Delights

2011-05-13T09:35:00.002-04:00

Continuing own with my Spring Growth obsession, I thought I'd put together a little collection of flowers and new life :)

Handmade Nightgown or Dress from RubyChicOriginals

The L'amour Dress from ruffledclothing

Vintage Golden Bird's Nest Bowl from VintageInBloom

Rust Floral 50's Summer Dress from Lightwitch

PLANT PROPAGATOR from dirtcouture

Vintage 1950's Pillbox Hat from thepuddingstorevint

Wooden Butterly Pin from daileedose

Coral Rosebud with Leaf Shoe Clips from RespectYourMother

My Peach Picks this month are also live on the LillyElla blog with a much more 'indoor' theme if you want to check them out!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Up on the Roof

2011-05-11T09:05:00.002-04:00

Vine - Handmade Miniature Portrait from smallworldgallery

It's these streaks of cool breezes and warm sunshine that have me longing for my rooftop garden. I would sit up there for hours, hands in soil, containers upon containers of wee seedlings ready to become full grown herbs and vegetables.

Since my once bountiful setup is no longer an option, I've opted for catching the growth magic in other parts of the city. A couple of trips to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden especially have really done the trick :)

Anything special you're doing to get into the spring spirit?

Dear Jeff Tweedy...

2011-05-09T10:08:00.012-04:00

To Wilco:

If you played at my wedding I'd fall over....

...With gladness.

But, I'll settle for seeing you at Solid Sound II. Thank you :)
Amy

Co-Worker Day

2011-05-06T09:39:00.000-04:00

For those of us that work from home, I know there's very little to complain about. Sure we make our own hours and correspond in our jammies but what we do lack most days is actual human contact. Someone to chat with at the water cooler, if you will. A person to bounce ideas off of when you're stuck in a rut.

Enter: Co-Worker Day! Now, I don't recall who first came up with this gem of an idea (pun intended) but it turned out to be a wonderful day of sunshine, fresh air and business talk. I had the honor of sitting amongst Miniature Rhino, KnitKnit, FiskandFern, MyZoetrope and VirginiaKraljevic (forgive me ladies for using your shop names instead of real life names. Except for you Virginia!), soaking up every little piece face to face conversation.

Now, you must all have other crafty peeps such as yourself in close proximity. Take advantage of it! Organize a day of talk, sharing and work in the great outdoors!

Speak Easy

2011-05-02T09:50:00.000-04:00

Antique Early 1900s Knitted Dress from VeraVague

While everyone may be getting tired of the Mustache and Fox, I love getting the monthly Merch Trends from Etsy. Sure, I could do without the butcher but when you put it in context to include the baker and the candlestick maker, you see the story behind the allure.

Included this month: Glam Weddings, Open air fetes, Vintage Carnivals and (my personal favorite) a throw back to the Speakeasy.

Art Deco Fireplace/Mantel from FableBoutique

Prohibition has always been of high interest to me. It sparked so many events and ways of life ie Gangsters, Bootleggers. There's a music club in North Caroline called the Blind Tiger that I only just realized was a nod to prohibition. Blind Tiger or Blind Pig was an establishment that illegally sold alcohol. I've also been dying to go to the 21 Club since I moved to NYC without even realizing it was a speakeasy in its hay day. Without even meaning to, I've jumped from wiki to wiki learning more and more about the era and what it all meant. How's that for fashion forward :)

hollow book flask safe from pommesfrites

So, the next time you raise a glass, picture yourself in a dimly lit room with a low hum of voices around you and speak easy, my friend.

xoxo
Amy

DIY Fur Immer

2011-04-29T13:16:00.000-04:00

My sister-in-law sent me a text this morning stating:
"She picked her shirt out all by herself!"

I picked up this kids' shirt last year at the Brooklyn Renegade Fair and couldn't resist later picking up a matching men's shirt online at the Etsy Store. I swear I didn't insist they always wear them together but I'll do my best to get a photo op when my brother and his family visit later this summer!

I will surely use this child to leave my handmade legacy :)

DIY Fur Immer!

xoxo
Amy

Out with the Old.

2011-04-26T11:25:00.000-04:00

Classic Leather Moccasins from RogueRetro

It's warm enough today to bust out my summer shoes! Though, I just realized my white Minnetonka's are well past their prime...

New quest this week? Find replacements :)

Floating through...

2011-04-25T08:17:00.000-04:00

Miniature Fiber Art by merriweathercouncil

I can't believe it's been a full week since we've been back from vacation! I promise to get photos together soon to share of our adventures. While I know I was extremely productive last week, I feel like I've just been floating through. Do you ever get that feeling? It's bizarrely unsettling.

I hope you all had a wonderful mid April yourselves (I'm flabbergasted that it's almost May)! Hopefully on much more on solid ground than I :)

Stay tuned later in the week for Hemingway Cats and more!
Amy

Have you Heartsied?

2011-04-18T14:45:00.000-04:00

Hi guys!
I'm back from an amazing week of rest and relaxation and am already getting down to some serious business!

Have you heard of Heartsy? It's the new (to me at least) wave in online, handmade savings. It's basically a curated discount website featuring awesome shops offering a limited amount of deals starting at AT LEAST 50% off.

Now comes my plea: Vote for my deal! 60 Heartsy members (you can sign in straight through facebook) need to say that they'd positively love my deal before I can be considered for a selected spot. May I trouble you for a 'like'? I promise ice cream cones to everyone who takes a sec to drop by :)

Big hugs to you all and hope you had/have a wonderful week!
Amy

Wedding Daydream

2011-04-15T09:36:00.000-04:00

single happy couple card from abbytrysagain

I walked into a little jeweler down the street the other day to get my ring finger sized. Just to know, you know? I've never been one to dream of my fairytale wedding. I'd much prefer a small amount of witnesses at an even smaller ceremony, followed by a much larger gathering of both of our friends and families (who at this point have never met).

But then there's Etsy.. and all it's gorgeous weddingness.. I can't help but wonder what that DIY, handmade wedding might look like :)

Handmade sterling silver and faceted crystal quartz ring from littlebugjewelry

Tulip Dress from Sarah Seven

Lemon Madeleines from inkandpaperarts

Dozen Heart trinket 12 dishes from firecat

Bird Seed Toss Favor Bags from thepaperynook

Just Married Photo Prop Sign from braggingbags

What was your wedding like? Or what do you imagine it will be like??

Vintage Homemaker

2011-04-11T09:30:00.000-04:00

I'd like to hope that I look this happy while doing housework :) I would also like to have a pantry dedicated to different colors and styles of aprons. This may, in fact, be the key to happy cleaning..

What I'll be doing next week....

2011-04-08T10:06:00.000-04:00

from HeyHarriet

We're looking forward to warmer, sunshine filled days next week! I can't guarantee I won't want to up and relocate to the Keys by the time our trip is through. I'm hoping to spend a little time ocean-fishing off a pier. I've only ever lake, river and creek fished so I'm super excited to see what kind of treasures may strike!

from BornAgainRestored

I can't wait to visit the Hemingway House and snorgle the descendant's of his 6-toed cats. But frankly, I could lay belly up in a pool the whole time and be as happy as a clam :) Anything to hit pause on this harsh, unforgiving North East weather!

from moonlightphotography

I have posts set to go up in my absence so don't you forget about me while I'm gone :) Have a wonderful week!

And Kansas She said was the name of her Star.

2011-04-06T10:20:00.002-04:00

It Girl T-shirt from blackbirdtees

I woke up the other morning with an idea for a Treasury. Big surprise, I dream in Etsy Treasuries, right??

For some reason I had a tune from the Wizard of Oz stuck in my head. It's amazing what you can find when taking snippits of lyrics and ideas from a story!

Kansas Love from poppyandpinecone

I Am Lion Hear Me Roar Necklace from curiousknopf

Vintage Emerald Jewel Bracelet from dreamyvintage

Felted Slippers from Syrendell

Little Enamel Funnel from theoldgoat

Have a wonderful rest of your week and don't forget to dream in Fairytales!
Amy

Wearable Vessels

2011-04-04T10:06:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite things trending:

from luckyduct

from YOUgNeek

from colleenjordan

from lilfishstudios

There's nothing like carrying something grown from the earth around with you wherever you go :)
Amy

Peach Picks: April 1st

2011-04-01T09:36:00.001-04:00

Hi Guys!

It's been a busy week for me over here on the Brooklyn farm :) I'm working on packing my already stuffed shop with the perfect bridal glitzes for spring. Though this is a daunting task when I listen closely to the ting ping ping of the frozen sleet hitting my window frames!

All of this aside, I thought it about time I did a little peach picks collection!

The Most Important Meal Necklace from PoleStar

DIY cereal bowl - slow food from JDWolfePottery

Bottle of Hand Squeezed Orange Juice from quotesandnotes

Hand Carved Easter Mural from prunellasoap

Perfectly Healthy 3 year old from LittleBeanPrints

;) Have a great day!
Amy

Sunshine on my Shoulders

2011-03-28T10:15:00.002-04:00

This post is for me... and anyone else who desperately needs a warm up :)

from bethanylorelle

from maoiliosa

from jessicatorres

from AstralBoutique

from dellcovespices

from swanmountainsoaps

It's 27 degrees on the first morning of the last week of March. But I do have hope :)

xoxo
Amy

Insert Me Here: Sunshine and Happiness

2011-03-25T09:14:00.000-04:00

I thought I'd help usher in the weekend early this morning with cheerful photos from around the world :)

from alamodestuff

from annasawinphoto

from giantdwarf

from photobird

from monkeyNsquirrel

Have fun this weekend and be silly!
Amy

6 Things I'd rather be doing than my Taxes...

2011-03-23T09:26:00.006-04:00

from jessjamesjake

Skipping in Huaraches.

from calloohcallay

Dressing up in Colonial garb.

from boygirlparty

Hugging Bunnies.

from wandersketch

Daydreaming out the window.

from okapiknits

Swinging with the birds.

from GetReadySetGO

Packing for a looooooong vacation.

You??

Empowering Words from MerriWeatherCouncil

2011-03-21T10:06:00.006-04:00

My buddy Danielle of Merriweathercouncil has an incredible blog. She's mastered the art of pairing guidance with creative expression while keeping things real and simple. She recently did a recap of her most empowering posts that I think you all should take a gander at!

A few of my favorite Excerpts::
"As much as I like to browse through craft books and magazines, it always nauseates me to see a pristine studio space or craft room. I understand that obviously some cleaning took place before the photoshoot, and the overarching culture of magazines is to have things look nice... but... really? Not a single scrap of thread or paper to be seen? Not a single misplaced thing? And everything is perfectly color coded? Ughhhh. It's not inspiring to me to see a perfectly organized crafting space. That's not real."

"Working through big projects will empower you. You will learn to improvise in ways you hadn’t before. You will learn to let your imagination go crazy. You will feel restored confidence in your creative ability. You will figure out what is reliable and what isn't. You will feel like you can do anything."

"Through the mess and madness of mistake making, something cool will happen, and the ideas that mistakes generate are worth the infrequent loss of material. And ideas are like pennies in the piggy bank, money for a rainy day, so don't worry about messing up, just worry about finding time and getting started. And having a sharp pair of scissors."

"It’s the little things that go into big projects that lead to our next endeavor. Creativity isn’t just “I did this one thing and now I’m done.” It’s “I did this one thing, and I figured out how to do this other thing and I got these other ideas while doing it so now I’m going to make something else.” And it goes on and on like that."

Is there anything you're feeling lost in the dark about lately? Anything you need a kick in the pants to get moving on?

Stationary Exercise

2011-03-18T10:35:00.018-04:00

from babylonscissors

We have a "bathing suit" vacation coming up in a month... I need to get serious about ridding my belly of it's winter cushion (darn those girl scout cookies that are set to arrive soon!).

from alexandraferguson

I'm not big on running. I call it the water slide theory, I feel like everyone is watching me! I had a gym membership awhile back but am ashamed to admit how often I would actually go (or NOT go). And frankly, there's only so many times I can do the same workout video. What do they say about variety and spiciness?

from DJandPvintage

SO, long story not short, I called upon my neighbor to borrow time at her home to use her stationary bike :) Yay!

Do you have any secrets to a good workout??

And you're all invited...

2011-03-16T10:36:00.001-04:00

I would like to have an adult tea party..

With these teacups.. from CharlotteLilyVintage

This Tea.. from treehouseherbs

In these dresses.. from CoralieBeatrix

In this setting.. from mStop

On blankets like these.. from squirrelshire

And you're all invited :)

Insert Me Here: The Sweet & Cute Edition

2011-03-14T09:20:00.000-04:00

It's official. You all have the sweetest, cutest lives EVER!

from @amytangerine

from @photobird

from @monkeyNsquirrel

from @AmityUK

from @factorygrlashli

Seriously, go follow these people on Twitter.
Craziness!

Shop Talk with Jaclyn1423

2011-03-11T08:42:00.003-05:00

Hey Everyone and Happy Friday!

I had the wonderful opportunity this week of being interviewed for the Shop Talk Series on Snap, Crackle, Pop. I was blown away by this woman's curiosity and kindness towards my work and the handmade community as a whole. Her questions were incredibly insightful and well thought out. And really made me think.. which I LOVE :)

Check it out! Learn more about me (there's more? yeah yeah, I know).

And hey, have a wonderful weekend while you're at it! for me!
Amy

What's your Summer Flavor?

2011-03-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

Clockwise from upper left:
bovinebubbles, FusionSweets, lilithclothing, BlushingPearl

One of my most vivid childhood memories is weekends on my dads farm. It wasn't a working farm but they (he and 2 other bachelors) had an elderly dog, piles of hay, a basketball hoop in one of the barn lofts and a giant woodpile inside a long thin wood-planked building. I would climb to the very top of the pile and sit and marvel at the height at which I was over the world while peering through the slats of the aged walls.

Clockwise from upper left:
RaleighVintage, ZudaGay, noellabeautyworks, twigandleafbotanical

My very favorite thing was the giant raspberry bushes. I would risk life and limb, pushing through the thorny overgrowth to get to the biggest, juiciest berries of the bunch hidden deep in the middle.

To this day, the taste and smell of raspberries takes me right back.

xoxo
Amy

Instert me Here: Weekly installment?

2011-03-07T09:20:00.000-05:00

There are so many places I wish I could be.
All at once!
Just a small piece of each.

@MerriweatherC

@Kim_Art

@photobird

@uncommondepth

@TheMalarie

I really love finding and sharing these glimpses of life around the world that you wouldn't otherwise see! I just may have to do this weekly/bi-weekly/monthly.

How's that for noncommittal?! But I mean it!
Amy

Friday Night Food

2011-03-04T18:49:00.000-05:00

Clockwise from top left:
PiscesCeramics, RippleEffectPhoto, BebeToby, BeContent

I'm so happy now that I had forgotten to blog this morning as we just had the most amazing dinner!

It was another recipe from Everyday Food (which I will say once again: SUBSCRIBE!). We've been wanting to get into different grains (cutting out pastas, potatoes and white rice for most of the week) so I pulled out this Tilapia & Quinoa w/Feta & Cucumber recipe.

The whole meal only takes about 30-40min for preparation & cook time. Highly recommend!

Have a great weekend!
Amy

The Pumpkins of March

2011-03-02T09:32:00.000-05:00

Happy March everyone!

Do you remember a bit ago I took you on a Walk through Brooklyn? At least my version of Brooklyn :) Well, I left out a section of our walk that I thought deserved a post all to itself.

Picture a little side street with a little church and a little aged iron fence. Nearing the end of this fence, in front of a set of beautiful brick row houses, we found these pumpkins.

There were about 20 total, I'd say. All had different facial expressions and all were long past their prime. It was like stepping into something of Tim Burton's and I loved every moment stolen with them :)

I know this is hardly a spring post but let's let these little guys usher in the brighter sun and growing breeze!

xoxo
Amy

Insert me Here

2011-02-28T09:10:00.003-05:00

Do you have these moments?
I get mine most often while on Twitter:

@giantdwarf

@fringeoriginals

@tortillagirl

@getreadysetgo

I haven't gotten the hang of using twitpics/instagrams myself but I love how it invites you right into people's lives and how they live :)

Have a wonderful week!
Amy

Granola 1.0

2011-02-24T08:33:00.001-05:00

I finally got around to making my own Granola! SO much cheaper than buying it from the store + you know exactly what's in it :)

First, the recipe via Everyday Food (which I recommend to everyone! I've gotten the subscription for the last 4 years and cook from it nearly every night. Even lunch and breakfast!)

While I did like the general outcome, this is definitely a work in progress for me. The main thing I didn't like was the overall hint of Vegetable Oil flavor. I might shoot for a Sunflower Oil or something a little more delicate in taste next time :)

I'd love to know what you think! Or share your recipe if you already make your own!

Next on my conquer list, Oatmeal (which I'm enjoying a bowl of now, mmmmmm).

xoxo
Amy

Talk baby to me!

2011-02-22T09:11:00.006-05:00

Organic T-shirt from WrenWillow

I simply can't help myself!

It's my youngest niece's birthday on Thursday :) I got her the T-shirt above in Blue and Black. Her parents sent me a video of her (2 years old) opening it (SO cute) followed by a picture of her wearing it with a giant cheesecake grin on her face.

They're coming in August and we're SUPER excited about it!

Happy President's Day!

2011-02-21T12:07:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

I wanted to invite you all to my President's Day Sale over at the shop :) Use code "WintersEnd" (which it will do one of these days... It has to, right?) at checkout for 21% OFF your entire order! That includes the growing-in-fame Misfits section which already holds pieces at up to 50% OFF!

Have a warm day!
Amy

Things I like this Friday morning

2011-02-18T08:56:00.000-05:00

YannPendaries

1. The sun breaking in and out of the clouds, trying to escape what could be another gray day.

2. The cats racing around like banshees, popping off of the couch with excitement at the spring temperatures.

3. Starling after Starling after Starling flying toward then over our windows.

4. A half of banana and strong English Tea.

5. The prospect of taking a long walk in 60+ degree weather :)

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Amy

To Dress?

2011-02-16T08:15:00.005-05:00

Men aside (though I'd love to know your man opinions if you're out there ;), where do you ladies stand on dresses for spring/summer?

Clockwise from top left: KittenPawsVintage, NickeyVintage, MQuin, lizarietz

I have a not-so-secret love affair with them. My only problem is that I usually end up picking ones that are JUST too dressy for the everyday and they end up sitting in my closet. Looking lovely of course :) but sadly since they rarely see the light of day!

I need your help with that! I really want to get back into wearing them regularly this year.

Clockwise from top left: MyLolaFashion, cocoricooo, Thrush, huntandgathervintage

One of my absolute favorite handmade dress makers is Betterthanjam. I stalk her every year at the Brooklyn Renegade Fair... Another I just discovered is a UK designer, jenniferlillydesigns. I couldn't resist her lacy accents :)

Where do you dress shop (online, instore)??

xoxo
Amy

Spring? Is that you?

2011-02-14T09:15:00.000-05:00

Saturday morning brought a very welcome surprise.

Flowers in May

I heard this faint undefinable noise that brought our three cats barreling toward the bedroom window.

TheHappyAcorn

After their ruckus subsided, I heard the wonderful sweet call of our local loud mouthed starling :)

BirdsinHand

Bring on spring little guy!

And Happy Valentine's Day!

xoxo
Amy

A little bit of Electricity goes a long way.

2011-02-11T19:48:00.001-05:00

They've been upgrading our 100+ year old electrical wiring so we've spent most of our days without technological juice this week. I couldn't resist searching etsy this evening (lights burning brightly) for a few things to spark up your weekend :)

GlitzGlitter

salvagesuppliesplus

TellMeLucille

butcherooney

blueorder

May all of your weekends be bright :)

xoxo
Amy

My little slice of Country Living

2011-02-09T09:30:00.003-05:00

On these long days of winter, I find myself daydreaming of what my cottage life would be like.

1canoe2

You know, that little cabin in the woods with the garden patch around back where you can hear the light babbling of the brook down that long stretch of hill that trails off to nothing and everything?

TheBentTreeGallery

grayworksdesign

VintageSurplus

bonni1982

brandmojointeriors

Yeah, that one :)

xoxo
Amy

Looking a little Closer

2011-02-07T09:30:00.001-05:00

Morning!

I caught this wonderful post on Curating Cuteness the other day featuring a gorgeous array of patterns. After looking through each piece I began to realize how comforting it was to have taken myself out of whatever I was doing to look a little closer.

Radica

Wudwerx

..............LoucheLab ......................... rabbitstop ...................... Arbol Designs..............

Skinny laMinx

SatinandBirch

I think I need more of that in my life. You? Definitely something to think about for the week :)

xoxo
Amy

A walk through Brooklyn

2011-02-04T09:30:00.000-05:00

My boyfriend and I got up early last Sunday and took a nice long walk around the neighborhood. It's funny how differently you see things that you've gone by a thousand times when you take a lens to it!

I never noticed the bridge on the Deli sign before. And I don't think I realized just how much snow we have! Definitely the only way to see the city near slumber :) Nobody but us pigeons!

xoxo
Amy

Happy-Go-Lucky

2011-02-03T10:13:00.000-05:00

Etsy teams have really taken off since the change to their new format. The other day I was invited to the sweetest named team EVER (aside from UNICRON, of course...). It's the Happy-Go-Lucky Team. Now how could you not want to be a part of that?!

LaTouchables

Malam

ElleMoss

Tortillagirl

ninu

Above are a few of my amazingly jolly new teamies, but be sure to view them all here!

A Whimsical Menagerie of Crocheted Kitsch

2011-02-02T09:30:00.002-05:00

So says the description of this RIDICULOUSLY cute shop featured on the front page of Etsy the other day :)

As they say, StitchHappens :)

xoxo
Amy

My little person shopping problem..

2011-01-31T09:30:00.000-05:00

Lately, all I want to do is shower my nieces with presents. Etsy does nothing to help curb this obsession :)

paperdollaccessories

marmaladecreations

cardsbyroma

amye123

haleysea

pleasantlyplumpknits

I'll force myself to eye shop for now. But how CUTE!!

xoxo
Amy

My Everyday Handmades

2011-01-28T09:30:00.001-05:00

I definitely have my moments of frivolous shopping :) But I really find myself smiling at times with how much I use these little handmade objects I've collected around me.

After water spotting a few too many areas of my desk, I thought it time to find a little tray to keep my strainer tidy. Enter MarciG:

My wee little fox coasters were showing some fraying around the edges so I went to the lovely Rose of Waterrose and asked her if she might be able to fashion me something in her style. She GRACIOUSLY gifted me her very first pair of these!

I've resolved to make more lists this year. I'm not sure if it's the pages she uses or the fact that it feels like an old book when I open it up but I'm having NO trouble sticking to my plan using my journal from TheFancyLamb :)

And finally, as a constant reminder of time and how quickly it can go by, my wee little westclox from AMRadio guides my days:

Hmmm... I may have to do a clothing/accessories version of this :) What are YOUR everyday Handmades??

xoxo
Amy

10 degrees and counting...

2011-01-26T09:30:00.001-05:00

It's been downright frigid here lately! It's definitely these deep days of winter that have me daydreaming of my future garden :)

We had a garden on our rooftop a few years back. I grew tomatoes, cucumbers, string beans, okra (just for looks, I think they're absolutely crazy looking!) and various yummy herbs. We've since had to close up shop which has left me to yearn for my own little backyard plot. I would probably still have a few container planters here and there though.. just as a reminder of my roots!

Pun intended :)

xoxo
Amy