Winter Changes ...

You may notice a change in the weather i.e. the snowfall ... if you're interested, you can go here to start a blizzard on your own blog.

Date Night

April 9, 2010 ... Steve Carell + Tina Fey = HILARIOUS.

Music Monday

I decided to do this little post mostly just to talk about The Avett Brothers. I really, really like their music and this song, I and Love and You, is my current favorite.



I also really, really wish I could snag some tickets (argh darn ticketmaster) to their January 1, 2010 concert at Fox Theatre in Atlanta and find someone who enjoys them enough to go with me ... because going to their show would be an amazing start to the new year!!!

Leap Year

I know 2010 is still a few weeks away but seeing this movie trailer tonight has made me start counting down the days until January 8th when I can see the first awesome romantic comedy of the year!!!

FREE Christmas Music on iTunes

photo via raggedyanne6982

Oh, how I wish my computer was not on the blink !!argh, grumble!! because for one week iTunes is providing a Holiday Sampler (a $20.31 value) for FREE!!! It features everyone from Sarah McLachlan, Mannheim Steamroller, Aretha Franklin, Weezer etc. So hurry up and check it out here!!

PS: Thanks for the heads up via Stephmodo

Haven't Met You Yet

I absolutely adore this song/video it's so cute, Michael Buble is pretty cute too, plus it really does seem to fit my current status.

Parental Acceptance

The holidays are upon us, we have celebrated Thanksgiving and now Christmas is now just around the corner. During such times of celebration we tend to gather around that which is meaningful such as home, friends and family. However, with this gathering comes some inevitable awkwardness or frustration especially when it comes to family ... parents in particular.

photo via bobbonehead

The dynamics of a parent-child relationship are incredible and at times incredibly difficult. Often times the difficulties in this relationship are greater as the child becomes an adult. I have experienced this quite often and was even thinking on the matter just last week as my family prepared for Thanksgiving. Then I received my GOOP newsletter for the month and the topic was straight from my heart/mind : Parental Acceptance

I highly recommend taking a few moments to read the newsletter here and see if it doesn't help give you some insight on how to love and accept your parents just as they are ...

I Dream of Paris

I think about traveling to Europe almost every single day, even if only for a few brief moments of daydream. Of course Paris is one of the must visit locales for such an excursion and watching this google.com commercial only increases the desire ... Oh Paris!

Advent

The beginning of December brings with it the celebration of Advent, a tradition I have always wanted to celebrate ... with the help of an Advent Calendar.

I am in love with this one from Mibo that you can download, print out and create for FREE here.
However, unlike most Advent calendars where one opens a small present or treat with the opening of each little door, I will have an "Act of Christmas" to perform (ex. bake cookies, watch a holiday movie etc.) each day that will help me get in the spirit of celebration.

It must be said ...

she is so extreme, crazy, kooky and freakin' out there. Yet, her originality is undeniable and a little bit bad a** too. I have become a fan of Lady Gaga and must admit I really want her latest The Fame Monster; a newer version of her debut The Fame featuring 8 new tracks.






















This is her latest song/music video release, Bad Romance, and it's so uniquely Lady Gaga that I'm diggin' it.

If On A Winter's Night

I know there are a few days of November remaining but now that Thanksgiving has come and gone it doesn't feel to early have Christmas related posts.



I always purchase a new Christmas cd around this time and this year's selection is If On A Winter's Night by Sting. It is technically a Winter album rather than just a Christmas album, with sounds that are lovely and haunting at the same time. The music perfectly represents the season with the warmth of the holidays mixed among the loneliness of winter. You can check out the video to hear a sampling and get Sting's own take on the music.

A Must Read ...

I'm a bit of a magazine addict (with a tendency to devour them cover to cover) and this Dec/Jan 2010 issue of Country Living was no exception.






















In fact, I found myself pouring over every word and lingering on each photo ... the issue was so full of great holiday inspiration I keep coming back to reference ideas. I HIGHLY recommend for anyone who is a fan of Christmas to purchase a copy today!

It's a Boy!

So, I am going to be an Auntie and found out this week the baby is going to be a little boy; I'm really excited about this new role and finally getting to meet my nephew this coming April!!

Man Shops Globe

I love, love, love this show!!


Man Shops Globe comes on The Sundance Channel every Wednesday at 10pm

The show follows Keith Johnson, antiques buyer for Anthropologie, around the globe in his search for unique items to sell or re-create for Anthro stores. He travels about 6 months out of the year to far flung locals such as India, Paris, Turkey etc. while shopping for a living! So, not only do I really want his job, but I love watching the show to get inspired by how he edits through the masses to choose an item and occasionally tweaking something to make it completely new.

PS: How cool is the design for the show's logo!?!

Promises

Dove and Martha Stewart have combined forces this holiday season to create these new Dove Peppermint Bark Promises.












They are delicious candies, with peppermint bark on top and dark chocolate on the bottom, with Martha Stewart holiday tips printed inside the wrapper.
I have found them to be a lovely display candy, simply set them out in a nice dish for guests or even yourself, with useful ideas. However, be forewarned they are also VERY addictive!!

Chasing Pirates

If this song is any indication then the new album is going to be good, really good. I love everything about this video ... the concept, the sound, the style etc.

Be Delicious

I have been working on finding the perfect perfume for quite some time that meets all my requirements ...

not too strong or overpowering

young and fresh

can be worn during any season
perfectly me

... and after much personal debate I finally made the decision and purchased, getting an awesome deal @ Perfumania.com

DKNY "Be Delicious"

So True

I found this quote today via Design Crush and after reading, realized just how much truth it speaks ...

"People who talk about their dreams are actually trying to tell you things about themselves they'd never admit in normal conversation." Chuck Klosterman

Shiver

This is what I'll be reading during some of my 5-6 hr long car ride tomorrow.

Shiver, by Maggie Stiefvater, is a about a girl named Grace who is facinated by a wolf who saved her life ... who also happens to be a boy named Sam. Sam is a werewolf, a wolf during the cold months and a human during the warm months ... until the time comes when he will stop changing and remain a wolf. They happen to meet while Sam is a human, realize how much they love each other but wonder how they can stop Sam from the inevitable that will seperate them forever.






















I def. don't usually read romance-ish books (except Jane Austin) but I blame the fact that my liking for Twilight made this one sound good too. Plus, the movie rights have already been purchased so one day I'll need to have read the book to see the film.

The Office Wedding

I am a big fan of the original British version and have seen a few episodes of our American version of The Office too. Well, last Thursday I simply had to watch Jim and Pam get married ... the whole show was hilarious and sweet, but the best part was the last few minutes.

New Moon Soundtrack

So, already it looks as though the upcoming film will be really good, definitely looks better than Twilight, but what about the music?






















The soundtrack for the movie is already getting buzzed about and with a lineup of artists like this: Death Cab, Lykke Li, Sea Wolf, Bon Iver, Ok Go, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Muse, The Killers etc. the buzz makes sense.
It looks like one awesome soundtrack and the best part being the October 20th release date, an entire month before the film debuts.

Ring, Ring

I have seen these Progresso Soup commercials popping up on various channels lately and absolutely love them. The idea is that people at home, work etc. can use a can phone to talk to the Progresso chefs. The soups look delicious and my favorite part of the can phone is when people say, "ring, ring". Watch and enjoy.

Tag ..

you're it. Watch this really fun and creative NIKE commercial.

gLee

Is one of my new favorite shows that comes on FOX Wednesday nights @ 9pm, you can find out more here.






















This was a scene from this week's episode ... this why it has quickly become a new favorite.

Halloween DOTS

One of my dearest friends, Niki, loves the DOTS candies and today while browsing the Halloween section at Target I found these ... Halloween DOTS!! They have fruity green ghosts, blood orange black bats and candy corns. They look yummy, especially those bats. So, for anyone else who is a fan be sure to check these out before they disappear.

Holiday Stamps

I found out yesterday about a lovely new set of stamps celebrating my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving.
The Thanksgiving Day Parade stamp consists of 4 designs by Howard E. Paine featuring the wonderful artistry of Paul Rogers who was inspired by American advertising and poster art of the mid-20th Century. I'm sure they will go pretty fast so if you are not planning a trip to the post office anytime soon, you can order them here.

Almond Butter

pic via. domestifluff

I finally got around to trying something I have been meaning to try for quite some time, Almond Butter. I am already a fan of almonds and enjoyed this version too. It is basically peanut butter but with almonds instead; the texture was like that of natural pb (mine was ground at the store) but with a richer flavor. I have beeen enjoying the spread on various items, this morning was on cinnamon raisin bread along with honey drizzle. Yummy!

ONCE

I had heard nothing but good things about this film and finally decided to purchase it ($6.00 @ Big Lots) today, then watched it tonight.






















I LOVE this movie ... the story is beautiful, the characters are endearing and the music is SO good!! I highly recommend, especially if you have any appreciation for music, as you will not be disappointed.

I'm now going straight out this week and purchase the soundtrack.

It's coming ...

Autumn

Perhaps it was the lack of humidity and the really blue skies today, but somehow I could feel it not too far away. This knowledge is absolute bliss because I am so very ready to welcome the cool crisp air, the leaves, everything about the season, with open arms.

photo via me

Sounds of Paolo

I almost always have VH1's Jump Start playing in the background of my mornings and lately have been catching the sounds of Paolo Nutini.


















The way his voice sounds like an artist from way back when ... it makes me stop and listen every time.

Let Yourself Feel

A lovely clip by Esteban Diacono

Geesh

Seriously, these trailers are making it really hard to wait for New Moon to debut 11/02/09

Febreze Flameless Luminary

I recently spotted these during a trip to the local Walmart and loved everything about them. They are battery operated (2 AA) and come in an array of various shades each with a different design + scent. They even have adorable autumn themed shades featuring spooky spiders or pumpkins in wonderful fall scents.















The only downfall is that a luminary starter kit cost about $15 ... So perhaps they'll offer a coupon for them soon?

Surprise!

I received the best surprise this weekend, when my very awesome aunt and uncle gifted me this lovely ice cream maker. The very same ice cream maker that unbeknown to them has been on my wish list since hearing about theirs. I was completely taken aback with their generosity and very excited to put this lovely device to work; the possibilities are endless!!

Hmm ...

I just spotted this preview (via pigeon toed) of the coming-of-age drama, An Education, and it looks really, really good.

For A Laugh

This skit always gets me rolling with laughter and that is always a great way to start the weekend.

D'OH!

I hate it when you have a complete brain-fart moment and say something so completely dumb to someone ... for example give the name of a baseball team the name of a football team from a different state !?! ... and realize it moments after your conversation ends.
Then wonder what an idiot they think you are and if they will recall this embarrassing moment every time they see you from now on.

I'm SO Excited

And I just can't hide it! GREEK has become one of my favorite tv shows and this preview of the new season makes me so happy ... please oh please let Casey and Cappie end up together!! Yes, I am a GREEK geek :)



ps: I'm liking the song on this video too.

They've Done It Again

Coldplay has made yet another amazing music video, this time for "Strawberry Swing", that is a MUST see and you can right here.

Bag It

I really like this bag, not sure if it is the various colors or what but think it is a most adorable tote.

So ...

I turned 25 a week ago today, but I never finished my wish list!! This simply won't do (I love lists too much) and so I will be trying to complete the list over the next few days/posts.

Extra! Extra!

If you absolutely LOVED (500) Days of Summer then you just might love this extra little video too, found via Destined to Design.



Oh my, I simply adore Joseph and wish Zooey was one of my best friends.

Presto Pesto

This recipe/photo is from Black Eiffel, a favorite blog, and I am plan to use it when trying my hand at making homemade pesto. Yummy!

A Hymn

This is so pretty ... the song and the photos. It reminds me of my trips to Africa where you have such beautiful creatures roaming the landscapes and the people so full of joy.

I Like This Song

I discovered this song/video today and hooked already ... Lisa Mitchell "Coin Laundry".

Wish No. 9

A Yudu because I have always wanted my own screen printing system and this one has endless possibilities.

Wish No. 8

A subscription to Body + Soul Magazine, which I will be gifting to myself, because I have bought the past few issues on newsstands and have come to really love this particular magazine.

Wish No. 7

A really great Manicure/Pedicure in a fabulous color of OPI Nail Polish.

Wish No. 6

An Atlanta "Daycation" which I have been planning forever ...
I would finally go visit the Georgia Aquarium then check out Bodies The Exhibition at Atlantic Station and do a little first-time shopping at Ikea.

Wish No. 5

I really need a new pair of Asics Running Shoes since my current pair are so worn out, one has a hole at the toe. I have been pondering this pair here.

Wish No. 4

A bold and vibrant Bouquet of Dahlias, a favorite flower, in various shapes/sizes would be gorgeous.

image via. saxonfenken

Finally

The trailer has arrived and I'm counting down the days to see the entire film.

Currently Enjoying

Exciting News

This book is one of my favorites (recommend to female readers in particular) and today discovered that a movie is being filmed, to be released in 2011 starring Julia Roberts! I am very excited but really hope they make the movie as good to watch as the book is to read.

Wish No. 3

The Sartorialist by Scott Schuman

I want this book, coming out on August 12th, because he knows style and photographs like no one else ... to me, meeting him would be like meeting a favorite celebrity. The hardback would be even cooler but quite a splurge. Check out his infamous blog here.

Whip It

I want to see this and LOVE the message about being your own hero.

Have You Tried These

Only 100 Calories, 1G Fat, 21G Carbs, 2G Sugar

These are good for you and actually taste good, I use them as hamburger buns and substitute for loaf bread.

A Clean Miracle

So, the brother was coming for a visit this weekend and some cleaning was definitely needed. I really wanted to get my shower sparkling and was recommended (thanks Mom) the Action Scrubber by Scrubbing Bubbles to use as my weapon in battle. OMG. It was like being in an infomercial where the product really does work!! I mean this thing cleaned the entire shower so well, getting off dirt etc. I didn't even know existed. I love this thing and will definitely continue to purchase/use this in the future.

Freebie Alert

I always browse the sale ads/coupons in the Sunday Newspaper and today came across a great deal + freebie.
Ruby Tuesday had an insert that included a Buy One Get One Free Coupon (for an entree) and when you join their So Connected club online you'll receive one plus they offer you a FREE Burger on Your Birthday!
This is a pretty good deal, even for non-beef eaters like me since they offer a variety of chicken or turkey burgers too.

Wish No. 2

I love to watch movies, especially the ones that are amazing films but not always "mainstream" enough to come to the local video shop. A Netflix Gift Subscription would be the perfect remedy to this situation.

Wish No. 1

Half a Dozen Cupcakes ... the delicious and healthy versions from Dulce Vegan (lemon blackberry=yum) would be awesome or else a tasty assortment from a really great cupcake shop.

cupcake via the sweetest kitchen

My 25 Birthday Wishes

I have about 14 days until turning 25 and decided to do a series of posts called, My 25 Birthday Wishes. I have some that are actually realistic and others are dreaming big, but that is what birthdays are about after all.

image via butaho

A Good Song

Lenka

I am really enjoying her music lately, and her latest album is only $7.99 on iTunes. Check out a video here and learn/listen to more at her website.

Currently Reading

I was going to do a post about my summer reading list quite some time ago, but that never happened. So, instead I'll just post what book my nose is about to be stuck in ... "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro. I've heard good things that will hopefully prove to be true when I begin reading today.

Sunflowers

From my garden, aren't they lovely?

Happy Monday

Ah Monday, the day everyone goes back to the daily grind of routine ... well here is a little blast-from-the-past video to make you laugh and smile, because you really need that on a Monday.

For a Laugh

I found this commercial today via. this cool blog and had to post since it just cracks me up, very creative and humorous.

Refreshing

I recently discovered these Ocean Spray On the Go Sugar Free packets and this White Cran-Peach is just so refreshing, its perfect for beating the summer heat.

Pardon My Language

I have liked this print for quite some time and finally decided that I needed the inspiration enough to justify the purchase.






















You can check out other cool stuff here at the OrangeBeautiful Etsy Shop.

I Heart Coldplay

This is a really uniquely creative and adorable video for such a huge band, just another reason they are one of my favorites.

This is going to be so good ... for a sneak peek at some images go here

25 Things About Me ...

I had braces for 3-4 years when younger
I can play some piano, from a few years of childhood lessons
I'm slightly ocd about my laundry and I hate fabric softener
I have 3 piercings (all in ears) and 1 tattoo (back of neck)
I've been to Africa 3 times
I made straight A's my first sem. of college w/ 18hrs
I really like to make lists
I love to be inspired ... music, film, photo, quote etc.
I have a blog that is updated fairly regularly
I know how to make and lay brick/block plus do some tile work
I have had 7 different jobs and never been fired
I lived in ATL for 6 months in 04/05
It's harder to gross me out after my travels and working with kids of all ages
I don't like horror movies or roller coasters
I have a "bucket list" that I'm usually adding to or marking off
I really want to tandem skydive but hoping to find someone to come with me
I love to travel and have an intense desire to live abroad for a year or more
I'm a bit of a foodie and have loved grocery/food stores since I was a kid
People sometimes assume I'm shy upon first meeting and shock them to find out I'm really talkative and loud
I'm a sucker for great art/design ... ads, photos, products, labels, blogs etc.
I think that depending on the tattoo(s) some on certain guys are hot :)
I usually don't like to talk on the phone, but slowly improving ... slowly
I enjoy hearing other people's stories about who they are, their lives etc.
I have a on/off bad habit of saying "sorry" too much; even done it when I bump into something
I love great conversations where you can talk about anything and everything with someone

Under The Weather

I am currently under the weather, stricken down with not one but two kidney stones. The largest of the two is currently on the move and causing me lots of pain, nausea etc.






















I am hoping and praying to pass this beast sometime this week; because after just one day of this stuff and I'm REALLY REALLY missing being healthy and happy.

image via Gilbert R.