delightful

lap duvet sketchbook.

2011-07-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

Let's revisit the fantastic Purl Bee because I found Molly's lap duvet sketchbook tonight and cannot look past it. Naomi Ito's Nani Iro line is exactly what I would hand pick for a first "quilt" project. And the practicality of a made-to-fit gauze blanket for an evening show or novel is extra encouraging.

threading paper.

2011-07-12T20:41:00.000-07:00

Oh no. I haven't been without the delightful this summer, I've almost just had so much of it that my head is spinning: four weeks of swim lessons, camping on the coast, a birthday, school shopping, furniture deliveries and a big family reunion coming at us quickly. (And I can't help but take any spare time to Pinterest instead.)

But this- threading paper on a string- stands simple but colorful and clever. That's what I'm attracted to most this month.

lunchbox roundup:

2011-05-30T13:19:00.000-07:00

We are (well, Cole is) starting Kindergarten in August! And although this is both a hugely happy and frightening change, a big part of me is feeling so excited about lunch-boxes and backpacks and back to school clothes.

Of course school gear is all so new to me, so I've spent time searching. I've started with lunchboxes and these are my very different favorites:

seen: Oots! lunchbox with stackable containers, $18 (-$28)

For the days of yummy leftovers. Sturdy Dutch design. All bpa-free and dishwasher safe. Choose blue, green or orange.

seen: zoo lunchie by skip hop, $14

Because he's only a kindergartner once! Soft, insulated, wipe-clean design with special inside mesh pocket that holds a coldpack. (Choose from 8 animals.) Super!

seen: Built NY gourmet lunch tote, $23

Made of washable (and stain-free) neoprene, zips closed and stores flat. (It's been a favorite bib brand of ours for years now.)

*****

[update: I need to add Chelsea's recommendation because it looks amazing!]

seen: goodbyn original kit, $24.95

Made to keep food separate.. and decorate with stickers? This seems like a winner, too!

Anything to share from your search or experience?

barley & birch

2011-05-21T23:48:00.000-07:00

seen: bridge tee

We spent the day at Stinson Beach, then winding through the incredible Marin Headlands to make our way home, where I found this t-shirt waiting for us on the front porch. It's super-soft and graphic and that could be enough. But Barley & Birch sells "unabashedly organic, planet-saving clothes" that are both gentle on the planet (offsetting emissions) and aggressive with helping improve people's lives around the world (donating profits). All this reminded me that although I still wish my boys to become peaceful and influential globetrotters, change can start with a tee.

[We bought ours at Fawn & Forest. Unfortunately it took ages to arrive, but luckily it felt worth the wait.]

training pants.

2011-05-18T20:13:00.000-07:00

seen: stripe toddler training pants by Giggle

With summer close, there is probably a whole army of parents that have promised themselves that now is the time to tackle potty training. I'm one of them. We got extra lucky for our first and started and finished in about 4 days (straight to underwear- no training pants, ever). But with little Finn, I have a feeling that I'll need extra backup. This is where two layers of extra absorbent terry liner comes in handy and it doesn't hurt that they're stripe-y with no itchy elastic touching skin.

[Do you think training pants are the way to go? Do you go straight to underwear? Prefer disposable pull-ups?]

inspired: Alfred Megally photography

2011-05-10T08:16:00.000-07:00

seen: "Little Town" (Guanajuato, Mexico)

This is brilliant. Today, I'm inspired by the world's color. (And want to see all of it first hand.)

organic bamboo cutting boards.

2011-05-06T11:14:00.000-07:00

seen: bamboo cutting boards by Bambu in kiwi, marigold and strawberry, $12-28

I want this year to be the year I really work on perfecting my kitchen. Add more favorite pots and knives (sharpen my current ones!). Finally get that mandoline. Replace my can opener. Build a collection of white serving dishes (one Alpilco piece at a time). Buy a roaster. Bring in more color. Sort and simplify.

These seem like the perfect place to start.

Jefferson shoes.

2011-05-06T10:53:00.000-07:00

seen: kids / mens Jefferson shoes by Native $34.99, $44.99

I've never been much into matching my family, but love the idea of coordinating daddy and little boy Jefferson shoes for summertime. Because they're classics that will breach age- (and even gender) specific design. I love the lemonade yellow & kermit green brights!

Have you tried them? What do you think? I'm so curious...

[Available at the hassle/risk free Zappos. (kids / mens)]

tip: italian clamp lid jars!

2011-05-05T09:40:00.000-07:00

seen: Jamie Oliver's storage jars, Emersonmade's famous pantry

These images aren't new (although still dreamy and inspiring), but this just in: Italian clamp lid storage jars aren't only for amazing open pantries and celebrities.

I've searched and searched and found that Crate&Barrel outlet has Fido brand jars on clearance in a variety of sizes (from $3.95- $9.95)! Save some for me..

inspired: cycle chic

2011-05-05T09:17:00.000-07:00

seen: images from Cycle Chic

I have no idea how it took me this long to find Cycle Chic which has been called "the Sartorialist on two wheels" and categorized in the top 100 blogs worldwide, but I'll make up for lost time, I'm sure. They showcase regular citizens on bicycles ("not geeky sub-cultural males," they say)- exposing how beautiful and stylish and healthy and normal this bicycle culture is.

I'm all for a reform that makes this part of my immediate culture too. To ~~a summer~~ a lifetime of bicycling!

(p.s. That great orange Yepp Maxi child seat sold locally at new-to-me PUBLIC bikes, who I hope to know more of soon.)

my next housewarming / dinner party / hostess gift

2011-05-04T23:35:00.000-07:00

seen: superior servers by Ladies & Gentlemen, $35 each

Because they're practical and pretty and colorful. Choose from Buttermilk, Dijon mustard, Vintage Aqua and Blood orange and try not to suddenly crave a gourmet salad.

[Seen in Real Simple Magazine]

porcelain soup can

2011-05-04T23:02:00.000-07:00

seen: david stark soup can, $14

Affordable white porcelain vases are hard to come by. I know because I dream of shelves of them filled with ferns and succulents. Now we have this new line with amazing raw edges at West Elm. I'm sold.

mostly good.

2011-05-04T09:21:00.000-07:00

Molly asked me to share a favorite parenting moment and so I talked about a recent memory of Cole (above). It's featured on her blog today, here.

prairie ruffle dress.

2011-04-28T10:24:00.000-07:00

seen: prairie ruffle dress

I've never worn dresses, but these cotton ruffles and flutter sleeves in ecru are making me think it's time to turn a page. I'll post this in my be more feminine at 30 folder.

the new domestic.

2011-04-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

seen: trees, bees & teepees / eye of the storm / dreaming of Marrakesh / seawind & willows, $36

Celebrate the triangle with the new Canadian shop New Domestic. They've combined function (large heavy weight recycled cotton canvas totes) with simple style (water based silkscreen in circus brights) and seem to have done it well. All in time for farmer's markets and beach towels-- hooray!

Abc Bunny.

2011-04-24T08:52:00.000-07:00

seen: ABC Bunny, our new Easter book (a 1933 classic!).

Happy Easter. I love this holiday and hope you're hopeful for new beginnings.

DIY liberty baby bibs

2011-04-13T13:55:00.000-07:00

seen: Liberty of London baby bib kits, $35

Today is the day I finished my very first sewing project! I grabbed one of these baby bib kits a couple of months ago with the intention to learn how to sew. I finally found the time and now understand why they sold out the very first day they were introduced. Sewing is made easy with a breeze of a pattern (even on my very first time sewing anything) and the combo of organic Michael Miller cotton terry and like silk Liberty of London's Tana Lawn is amazing. Available in 7 color-ways (I chose the gray... & now want bright blue, red and yellow.)

Now someone I really like just needs to have a baby. I think it will complete the perfect gift.

message in a spotted egg.

2011-04-03T18:55:00.000-07:00

seen: message in an egg tutorial

I saw this and instantly wanted to start a new tradition: a message in a real spotted egg inside each boy's Easter basket. It looks like magic.

winter water factory.

2011-03-29T17:37:00.000-07:00

seen: Winter Water Factory sale tees

seen: new from Winter Water Factory

For the love of boy tees with modern graphic prints.

Dunck bath toy.

2011-03-28T22:50:00.000-07:00

seen: Dunck stacking bath toys by Skip Hop, $10 (set of 3)

Bath time may be one of our favorite times of day. Good bath toys make it that way. Enter Skip Hop's new set of stacking ducks. I love you, Skip Hop.

[Available here.]

inspired: cereal bar birthday party

2011-03-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

seen: a cereal mixer birthday party on Mer Mag

Every detail of this birthday party (guests in PJs, build-your-own cereal favors, magic milk straws) is clever and awesome. And especially fun to see that her little 5 year old boy celebrated the exact same day as my little 5 year old boy. It's all happy.

Plover charm packs.

2011-03-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

seen: Plover Organic charm pack, $9.50

Maybe I'll never get enough of Plover. Martha Stewart tipped me off to these 5 inch fabric squares and my head is suddenly full of ideas. Although she recommends making scented lavender sachets (which is so European and I love using them- see page 38 of the latest Living), I also love the idea of quick bean bags (hello indoor play to survive this rainy season) and easy coasters. 42 squares for $9.50.

eco-Easter

2011-03-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

seen: eco-eggs easter egg coloring kit

I've bookmarked eco-kids art supplies but really turned my attention to the brand when I saw this egg coloring kit packaging. It's fun. The dye is made using natural plant, vegetable and fruit extracts, which makes sense when you think about coloring hard boiled eggs your children will likely be excited to eat. (A pink egg!) Bonus: eco-creature cutouts are available on their website.

Since the price seems a bit high for dye, I shopped around. The eco kits can be found cheapest at Pottery Barn Kids, Moolka and Lucky Vitamin (?).

spring clean: mattresses

2011-03-25T16:09:00.000-07:00

seen: images from Real Simple

The most recent Real Simple issue has pages of spring cleaning shortcuts. They promise nearly 30 strategies and products that really work and I'm going to put them to test, starting with mattresses. It's one of those spots, that although I really love a clean house, I've missed good parts of. Are you on that?

The shortcut clean: see here.

*I would add washing the bedskirts along with mattress covers.

The long version: see here.

*Given the price of the recommended OdorZyme ($30 with shipping on Amazon), I'm trying Bi-O-Kleen's Bac-Out Stain and Odor Eliminator for under $15. (We currently use the Biokleen citrus laundry powder, so I'm hoping the spray works and smells just as well.)

Just an extra step or two to put that spring cleaning fever to rest.

pointer: freeze fresh lemon juice in cubes.

2011-03-22T13:52:00.000-07:00

Our meyer lemon tree gave us a huge crop this year. After giving away bags and bags and keeping a large bowl for myself, I opted to juice the remaining 60 lemons last night to freeze and store for year-round meyer lemon recipes. (My arms are sore.)

Ice cube trays make for the perfect measurement. 1 large lemon = 2 cubes. Also, so easy to thaw a couple of cubes to then measure out tablespoons if the recipe calls for such.

mom jeans, redefined.

2011-03-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

seen: Alder and Co slouch skinny jeans

These look like the perfect jeans to me. The name says it all.

we had a messy party!

2011-03-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

My Cole turned five on Saturday, which means we had a very messy party.

confetti is messy

aprons were handed out as each child arrived

messy jell-o blocks. (a hit!)

messy finger painting with colored shaving cream

(I should have required the aprons)

messy make-your-own banana splits

we read Mr. Messy

messy thank yous: silly string, finger paint, pixie stix

What we did:

Jell-O blocks

Messy snacks (pirate's booty, muddy buddies, carrots & dip, apples & caramel and chocolate milk)

Finger painting with colored shaving cream

A super-sized surprise ball (with messy surprises: sidewalk chalk, bubbles, stickers, mini squirt guns..)

Make-your-own messy banana splits

Mr. Messy

It was exciting and manageable (thanks to help! next time, less kids..) and possibly the perfect theme for a group of 4 and 5 year olds.

*****

See the messy party invites here.

dining tables, continued.

2011-03-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

seen: Muir table by Amenity Home

(a new favorite, I think.)

seen: Big Sur table found in this beautiful home featured in Remodelista

Two more natural, sturdy, (large) kitchen tables to add to my collection of options.

a like-wallpaper DIY

2011-03-20T19:53:00.000-07:00

seen: DIY "fancy french wallpaper" [via bkids]

This is amazing. Would you have the patience?

fabric and handle

2011-03-16T17:21:00.000-07:00

seen: Paige Tote bag, $39

I've found a great thing, friends. Today I carried around my new Paige Tote bag and was stopped by a couple of moms at preschool who wanted to know where I got that! Clearly they saw it too- not only a great, simple design (this one is 100% black linen with light tan leather straps), but it's adjustable, it's completely washable (the straps are removable) and it feels good. And, after looking closely, I know what they couldn't know yet- it seems to be made flawlessly. (All for under $40!) Do you tote?

It's Fabric and Handle and I love knowing this as a new delightful brand. I've carried totes for the last year but my favorite Orla Kiely tote that I've worn daily is reaching retirement.

More favorite Fabric and Handle bags below.

Inka in Fig.

2011-03-07T16:05:00.000-08:00

seen: Inka in Fig/ Inka in Smoke

This is new bedding by Aura (an Australian label) and I think it's just about perfect (paired with some quilted shams and a floral throw pillow?). There are shades of color, bold pattern and my husband could love it equally as much. The duvet cover is reversible, featuring a large chevron print on one side and a small zigzag on the other. Which would you chose- tonal safari or Cool and quite as a Scandinavian autumn?

[seen on Oh Joy!]

hello, Monday.

2011-02-28T12:48:00.000-08:00

Hit the Road Jack by MAKOTO from Achim Lippoth on Vimeo.

Sometimes you need to see a small child playing the ukulele (right?) on a Monday morning. (Do you think this is real?)

wise tip: stamp it!

2011-02-28T12:36:00.000-08:00

seen: stamping artwork

I came across this over the weekend and literally thought the exact same thing as this blogger: "why why why have I not done this yet?!" And then "why why why did I not keep all my old Cookie issues?!" Moving on, isn't this so smart! We already have stacks of artwork, and although I hang some and file the rest, I'm missing the dates. Luckily there is an easy fix.

inspired: this nursery.

2011-02-28T12:28:00.000-08:00

seen: here

I think this may be my favorite nursery- as a whole- I've come across yet. The orange, gray, mustard/ the ceiling/ the Sparrow crib/ the framed Sharon Montrose prints/ the chalkboard wall/ the barn door/ the peeks of yellow lacquer/ the abacus..

What do you think?

a messy party: invitations.

2011-02-26T18:02:00.000-08:00

seen: messy party invitations, finger painted by Cole.

We finished these last night and are anxious to send them out to his 14 favorite friends for a real deal birthday party (our first). The idea started with these, Cole quickly & excitedly approved- with many of his own ideas- and then the party planning began. We're on the countdown!

(p.s. The first thing Brad told me when I told him "an indoor messy party!" was that it was my antithesis. Do you think I'll survive? In the name of love..)

new green toys & tableware organization.

2011-02-23T17:33:00.000-08:00

seen: new Tableware by Green Toys:

divided plates, snack bowls,

bowls, divided tray

If there is one thing I just haven't figured out in the last 5 years of parenthood, it's consistent child-friendly (and child-proof) tableware. We've recycled many (nice, boutique and Target, cheap) cracked plastic divided plates and bowls and now the mis-match of it all drives me crazy. Wouldn't it be great to have a cabinet full of these- all made from safe, friendly, dishwasher-safe, recycled plastic milk containers. My experience with this brand tells me yes, it would!

seen: kitchen organization

And once I find the right set, I would love for them to all be stacked neatly like this. Man, I'm in love with this image-- the painted silhouette of each dish. I feel a high priority to-do.

heart of wood.

2011-02-18T11:30:00.000-08:00

seen: wood heart necklace, $30.

For the girls who like to keep things simple: wood and brass jewelry at Sonho. Perfect for dressing up my weekend casual. [via that's happy blog.]

to do: color science.

2011-02-17T17:05:00.000-08:00

We've been inside all week-- even the preschool outdoor time is cut short when the 'weather watch' counts enough rain drops (or hail!). To stay happy today, we came up with this simple & colorful craft. It makes all this gray feel less dreary.

(seen: yellow, red and blue food coloring)

You only need:
*one ice cube tray
*one dropper
*blue, red and yellow food coloring
*water

Now, on to becoming a color scientist. Mix as you like.

sending sunshine.

2011-02-16T23:03:00.000-08:00

We were getting our fair share of sunshine last week and it felt wrong to keep it all to myself. So, I spent a couple of days boxing it up and sending it off to a couple of friends. It really was great fun!

*I used boxes I had on hand. So although I started with the same tidbits for each package, I ended up changing up the contents to fit. I liked the variation.

(Now, we have enough rain and hail to go around. Any takers?)

I lovely love my family.

2011-02-14T09:16:00.000-08:00

seen: I lovely love my family print from Mer Mag's shop

I read this blog post this morning and think you should read it too. It will tell you about this super cool print for a beautiful cause (plus hooray for Yo Gabba Gabba, our favorite) and if you buy it this week, you will get your choice of another print from the shop- for free. Spread the love..

***

And I do lovely love my family. But this morning was a big Valentine's fail. After a night of one sick boy in my bed (kicking and tossing every 5 minutes) and another on my floor after a nightmare about foxes and monsters and bad guys (plus all that those kind of nights mean for a mama), I slept in until 8. Oops. Which meant that my sneaky boys had already gone downstairs without the usual "goodmorning", opened their valentines by themselves, used the stickers, ate the candy (left trails of sticky) and played with the surprises all before Cole, that clever 4 year old, came in to say- "Mom. Did you know it's 8 o'clock? We've already found our surprises Daddy left us." Daddy? I'll let it slide. Because I love them all.

***

Happy Valentine's Day.

discounted Vers wooden covers.

2011-02-14T08:56:00.000-08:00

Every morning, I know to expect my inbox full of designer discount emails. You too? They take a consistent filter, but I love a good deal, so of course I put in my time and then occasionally score. I've been watching Design Story's Vers wood iphone/ipad covers for a week now, and finally took the $15 plunge before the sale ended (today!). And now I'm so excited for the happy mail that will show up soon. (I didn't want you to miss out.) Aren't they pretty!

a new kind of gift packaging & office supplies

2011-02-11T21:31:00.000-08:00

There are always a lot of people trying to do the same thing, especially with paper goods and gift packaging lately. (Although maybe that's not a bad thing. I'm not sure I can get enough..). Why do I love Olive Manna, then? Because not only do they have 15 pages of products I would buy in a second, but they have this too. Something new & different:

I'm especially loving the stained wood.

more sweatshirts: baby boy variety

2011-02-06T21:30:00.000-08:00

seen: Peek Kid's new baby oink crew

(also available in baa and moo)

seen: sale versions: snail crew and octopus crew

We're a sweatshirt family but good looking loungewear can be hard to come by, don't you think? The snail crew is my little boy's favorite top ("bug shirt") and for the love, I wanted to share the deal. Understandably, I'm very excited about their new line of oink, baa and moo crews. (Luckily, with our 80+ degree weather, we're in no hurry to pay full price.)

Where do you find your good sweatshirts?

wonderboy mask hoodie- sale

2011-02-06T21:11:00.000-08:00

seen: blue mask hoodie @ Small Concept

I've learned to love little boy clothes. And I love sales. Today, I love this Wonderboy mask hoodie for only $19.50!

a treasure: printable pirate valentines

2011-02-06T21:01:00.000-08:00

We went easy for Valentine's this year (bought these), but since I was clearly thinking pirates for the 4/5 year old preschoolers, see my favorite free download/DIY (via a new-to-me & really great blog):

seen: printable pirate valentines from Mer Mag

Aren't those awesome (grrreat)? I can't wait to sort through his loot with him after Thursday's preschool. So much better than Halloween candy, I think.

*****

If my boy wasn't so set on eye patches, this is another favorite printable: bubble valentine's cards.

to love: felted balls

2011-02-06T20:47:00.000-08:00

seen: hand dyed and hand felted wool balls

I know there are better felted ball deals available, but these colors! Now at Purl Soho.

And my favorite of felted ball projects:

seen: 1. felt ball necklace (for the non-DIYers)

2. Felt ball trivets (especially because I love the word trivet)

3. Felt ball garland (here and here)

[seen: my version in Finn's bedroom]

4. Felt ball wreath

knock knock kids

2011-02-01T14:14:00.000-08:00

seen: knock knock for kids

I love & use knock knock pads and was very excited to see this at our local bookstore this morning. "Sheds new light on the phrase 'use your words,'" which will likely come in very handy in our home of kids who think and feel deeply. For all future listers!

weekend mood: gold + grey

2011-01-30T20:41:00.000-08:00

Women's new arrivals - tees & knits - Luxe baseball tee - J.Crew
$65 - jcrew.com

nonchalantmom: parenting ideas, style for kids
$54 - nonchalantmom.com

FADED FLORAL QUILT
245 GBP - toast.co.uk

terrain: Opinel Knife Set
$68 - shopterrain.com

Boy's accessories - ties & bow ties - Boys' skull-and-bones chambray...
$25 - jcrew.com

Nixon's Women's Watches online at NixonNow.com
$325 - nixonnow.com

DELICATO RING DUO - Stack Rings - Rings - Jewelry | Robert Redford's...
$120 - sundancecatalog.com

amazing upholstery on that chair. Jess LC
pinterest.com

Jordan Ferney | Oh Happy Day!: Flag Sculptures
jordanferney.blogspot.com

Peek... Aren't You Curious | Peek... Aren't You Curious Matta Dupatta...
tadashop.com

Eco Highlighter Yellow : Green your office - biodegradable highlighter...
stubbypencilstudio.com

sexy beast card.

2011-01-29T14:13:00.000-08:00

seen: sexy beast card by The Art File

(scanned image by me)

Today I walked into a local stationary store and found this cheeky line of cards from the UK, who I vote has the best sense of humor. I left with the above card. My scanning does it an injustice, but it's large, thick, recycled, and very man-appropriate. For only $3.50. That's hard to find.

Other favorites:

Keep an eye out or order in their online shop.

winter citrus.

2011-01-27T09:46:00.000-08:00

seen: (here)

One of my favorite parts of Sunset's February issue is all the talk about citrus. I once had a dream to own a meyer lemon tree. I do now- 2 potted dwarf citrus plants right by the sliding back door. And we were also lucky enough to move into a home with a great (overgrown) lemon tree in the corner of our very small concrete back "yard" that doesn't stop giving us big lemons. They make me happy (something about citrus in the winter), but I have an over-abundance. We've done fresh squeezed lemonade for a dinner for 9, lemon yogurt muffins, lemon ricotta pancakes, lemon & parmesan risotto. Every week, a new lemon recipe is almost necessary before my bowl of picked lemons slowly shrink and shrivel. I can't keep up with them & love this dilemma.

Inspired by this couple who owns 1/4 acre backyard with an orchard of citrus trees in Costa Mesa, Sunset says to "share the season-- give your extra lemons and limes to neighbors, or host a citrus party." Of course. A citrus party.

seen: (here)

Now I'm wanting to start a citrus club. My lemons for your kumquats/tangerines/mexican limes/blood oranges. Anyone in?

inspire: x's & o's

2011-01-27T08:40:00.001-08:00

seen: on b*spoke blog

Inspired to decorate for Valentine's Day, have a festive dinner party and be more of a romantic.

inspired: indoor play

2011-01-27T08:33:00.000-08:00

seen: hopscotch mat

To roll out on these cold, rainy, snowy days.

ban.do

2011-01-27T08:21:00.000-08:00

I've spent months of my life trying to branch out from my go-to short bob haircut, but it just doesn't work for me. To my credit, I've worn my hair wavy rather than straight since October (!), but I think my variety will come with accessories. Right now, I'm loving the idea of these ban.do clips:

seen: sequin party clip set, $25, gold bow bobbi, $25

And if you're looking for sparkle too, but hoping to find it in other places, maybe you'll love these:

seen: crystal bowtie shoe clips, ban.do heart shoe clips

dining room tables: a search.

2011-01-13T15:07:00.000-08:00

seen: via emmas designblogg

A family of boys (2 little + one big), especially a family of boys within my larger family (natural food lovers), is centered around food. I learned quickly to keep them fed. I try hard to keep food exciting. I really want to be comfortable in my kitchen (a work in progress) and to ultimately have a kitchen that my boys and all of their friends are comfortable in too.

In 2011, we hope to find a dining room table (but for the lack of a dining room, one that will serve as a kitchen table too) that will be reason to feed our family & friends, that will stand the test of family and time & that can become the center of our home.

For years now, I've loved the x-leg tables. Solid & sturdy. A little bit salvage, a little bit modern. Found on my search:

①

②

③

④

⑤

*****

1. turville table, 2. tondern dining table, 3. avignon salvaged beam rectangular dining table, 4. american artisan x-table, 5. cross extension table

my name is Kelli and I love pretty books.

2011-01-10T21:07:00.000-08:00

If I were a small bookshop owner (dream!), these would be in my display case:

seen: books I would love to own:

Atlas of Remote Islands, Pictorial Webster's

The Little Prince pop-up, Tartine Bread

sleepwear.

2011-01-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

seen: kids ivy-striped sleep henley

I wish it hadn't taken us years of long legged, short torso-ed and tight armed pajamas to find a good fit in these. We love the soft and thin with the fit we're looking for. (And free shipping and plenty yearly sales to add to it all.) My pajama loyalty (standing favorite: here) is expanding..

20 favorite toys in 2010:

2011-01-10T19:10:00.000-08:00

We love good toys but really only collect them at Christmas and birthdays. And all fit in one toy armoire and one half closet, so we've gotten good at only buying toys that will really be loved and then storing or donating the forgotten ones. Here's my roundup of our favorites this year (with a clear boy influence). What would you add?

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

*****

a new way:

2011-01-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

seen: ferm living wallsticker

Hello! This month feels really good. January 2011.

I love goals and resolutions and especially lists, but in years past it's felt a bit forced to make them at the beginning of a new year. (How do you feel about new year resolutions? There's usually a split vote..) This year is different though. The new year has come at the right time for new goals for me. In light of wanting to be able to accomplish them, I've kept my list short and simple:

1. Be active.

2. Read.

3. Be creative.

I'm already realizing, though, that my simple (vague) list isn't so simple: being active might mean hours and hours of new activity weekly. I would love this year to be the year I do a race. To really train for something hard; I love to read and collect books and know new releases, but I want to be the kind of reader again that prioritizes books every night. How to do this and sleep well? That's to figure out still..; Daily creativity. This is where simple turns very complicated. 2010 was a year of simplifying, surviving and being inspired. 2011 is a year of doing great and new things. I want to make things with my boys, to learn the art of preserving, to sew, to travel more, to make new friends, to make my home a pretty place that I love, to screen print, to write, to journal about my kids, to take classes. Etceteras. Clearly this year needs a new focus: balance.

How will you do twenty-eleven?

diy activity albums

2010-12-17T09:31:00.000-08:00

seen: handmade activity albums from LMNOP magazine (pages 21-23)

Made By Joel is pure creative brilliance, especially in these albums. I'm imagining years from now, what I'll want to remember more than what they wore on their first day to school is how and what they've created- from peanut butter and birdseed pine-cones to those block towers that look just like the Golden Gate bridge. Because it shows pieces of who they'll be forever and I got to watch it first.

Be sure to see his DIY in the newest lmnop issue.

christmas crackers

2010-12-17T09:16:00.000-08:00

seen: christmas crackers from present and correct

[seen on nice package blog]

If I lived across the pond, these would be expedited to be at my home for the big Christmas dinner. I'm sure I've never seen such special crackers. We grew up with this fun tradition: crossing hands and holding your neighbor's around the table, then pulling the crackers for a bang! before Christmas dinner. It makes for a really fun start to a really great celebration.

Now, I'm just left inspired. Family, too late to make our own?

inspired: gift wrap

2010-12-15T11:24:00.000-08:00

seen: water colored gift wrap

decorate with neutrals.

2010-12-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

seen: holiday table setting from the new Lonny

seen: advent calendar by Shim + Sons

[via Black Eiffel]

seen: DIY Christmas place cards/ name cards

seen: The Woods trio by Paige Russell

seen: unconventional Christmas tree via El Jardin Rojo

seen: free printable gift tags by Eat Drink Chic

hex bugs

2010-12-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

seen: Hex Bug Nano, $7.99-$9.99

Even if they're mostly a bit creepy among adults, it seems like bugs are intrinsically cool to most kids. How to work around that (when, let's say.. your 4 your old wants pet ants; they even made it to the Christmas wish list..)? Hex Bugs are super great + futuristic robotic creatures that behave like real bugs. One of these "test tubes" will make it into each boy's stocking this year and I may be really excited.

[I've spotted them at Target & Peek Aren't You Curious.]

inspired: this boys bedding + styling

2010-12-06T12:22:00.000-08:00

seen: Dwell Studio skyline sets

[photo from Layla Grayce blog]

I think Dwell's new skyline prints are the best I've seen from them yet. Here's cheers to clean, simple boys decor that can be playful with the right amount of good color for both baby and big boy alike. (And thank you for such great styling. I'm always dog-earing.)

p.s. Longtime favorite Boodalee is sadly having a big farewell sale- up to 50% off. If you're on the search, think quickly. I don't think these graphic bedding sets will ever be trumped. Sigh.

(new) 'days of the week" organic cotton underwear

2010-12-02T09:33:00.000-08:00

seen: "days of the week" organic cotton underwear by Stella McCartney Kids

Didn't we all have a 'days of the week' set in our youth? It's reminiscent. And it's a lesson in, well, the seven days of the week. And having clean underpants for each day is a good little perk that comes with these well designed boxed sets of 7. New by Stella McCartney Kids.

I love: this Winter outfit

2010-11-30T21:52:00.000-08:00

seen: from December Anthropologie catalog, p. 10 (link for details)

It celebrates Winter. From the pullover to the bangles.

wooden nativity set

2010-11-30T21:35:00.000-08:00

seen: deluxe nativity set, $44.95

I have a soft spot for nativities and want to grow an entire collection. Of course with a 1 year old and 4 year old, that's not an easy task when little hands want to play with all of the little pieces. Naturally. So you can imagine my excitement when I decided to flip through the One Step Ahead catalog today and found this: a pretty + child-safe 24 piece wooden nativity that reminds me of the German Holztiger set (which runs about 10 times this price). And for that price! Joy!

make a modern chalkboard christmas tree

2010-11-30T14:44:00.000-08:00

seen: DIY modern chalkboard christmas tree (via poppytalk)

Canadian House and Home does an instant modern take of a Christmas tree. "No fuss and needle free" if that's what you're going for. Or maybe just another super & simple decoration to deck the halls (with only a canvas, a dowel and chalkboard paint).

inspired: untraditional family photos

2010-11-29T23:26:00.000-08:00

seen: pajama party photo shoot

[via on-hand + modern]

armelle blog's: magnetic chalkboard frame

2010-11-29T23:18:00.000-08:00

seen: magnetic chalkboard frame via Armelle Blog

Isn't the grey/silver perfect! This framed magnetic chalkboard is not so much shabby chic (their rap, I think) but pretty and functional and sleek. Of course it came from Armelle blog. Go here for how-to instructions.

how to make a fresh wreath

2010-11-29T23:06:00.000-08:00

seen: "bits & bits wreath" by Studio Choo for Sunset Magazine

I haven't made my way through Sunset's December 2010 issue yet, but I do have page 75 opened on my desk (see above). It's gorgeous and inspiring and comes with a how-to decorate your house with your "backyard" foliage. I'm not sure Christmas season will feel quite right until I get something like this onto our front door.

Read their DIY (beautiful & natural) wreath instructions here.

Note: My local Whole Foods is selling 24" fresh evergreen wreaths for only $14.99. (Nice and thick and heavy even.) I swept up that deal this afternoon and am excited to add my own bits and pieces (especially succulents).

diy glass jar labels

2010-11-24T15:36:00.000-08:00

seen: label making on glass, via Ready Made

I've typically seen glass etching on the bottom of casserole dishes and it just hasn't been my thing. But this is super- the instructions are simple and the results are too, which is exactly the way I like it. (I'm still dreaming about these jars/this cupboard though! Dear Jamie, please open a US shop.)

I found this DIY on the new & great looking blog dear Inspiration (friend Lindsey's cousin). You should bookmark it.

*****

Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow!

DIY stamped christmas cards version 2010:

2010-11-22T22:15:00.000-08:00

my inspiration:

seen: Greetings from San Francisco cards by Hello Lucky!

my DIY:

seen: Winterscape and San Francisco stamp sets by Yellow Owl Workshop

seen: stamp pads from paper source

plain cards and envelopes in superfine soft white from paper source

one favorite family photograph by Justin Hackworth

I love sending & receiving Christmas cards and am excited that twenty-ten will bring back a Burgoyne family greeting. This year, coming from The Bay area.

sammy seagull

2010-11-18T13:35:00.000-08:00

seen: sammy seagull print

Wayne Pate: Thanks to Tiff's tip, I finally found this seagull print that is so oddly charming (birds and stripes and rainboots!). Wayne Pate has a fun portfolio and I'm glad to know of him now.

[More here.]

baby carrots

2010-11-18T13:21:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of the new & hip baby carrot campaign "brought to you by a bunch of carrot farmers?" They're trying to get Americans to eat 'em like junk food and are starting with new packaging, mimicking the likes of Doritos and Cheetos, a rock-n-roll website and several clever advertisements.

"It's not an anti-junk-food campaign," says Jeff Dunn, Bolthouse Farms CEO and a former North America president at Coca-Cola. "It takes a page out of junk food's playbook and applies it to baby carrots." (source)

This $25 million dollar effort plans to show itself in school vending machines. I really like that part.

Do you think it will work?

senegalese storage baskets

2010-11-16T17:38:00.000-08:00

seen: Senegalese storage baskets in blue and pink, $68-148 each

serena & lily has suddenly become a stand-out to me in their last couple of catalogs; the styling of their boy rooms (the Ronan room! and that Pez wall in the Asher room) is feeling a bit more broad and I really like it. (Dear Serena & Lily: the source for that framed seagull print on page 45?)

I've learned that authentic decorating (for your home to look like you- a new focus of mine) usually grows from the details built over time-- ones that you love and somehow share some sort of meaning. My current favorite Serena & Lily detail is these handmade Senegalese baskets, made by artisans in Africa from natural fiber and recycled plastic. Maybe because I love Africa, I love the zig-zag pattern and bringing some handmade history into my home- all in the name of storage.

wishing I (we) had a Kanken to love

2010-11-15T21:02:00.000-08:00

seen: Kanken mini

Kanken: The functional, affordable, Swedish (~~English?~~) backpack that's existed for over 30 years. Available in 23 pretty great colors!

[also sold here]

county fair party

2010-11-15T20:47:00.000-08:00

seen: county fair details

Thanks for another one, Hip Hip Hooray! I can't decide if I love the tiny petting zoo or pig applique tees more. It's the perfect unisex idea.

inspired: sweet holiday magazine

2010-11-15T20:40:00.000-08:00

seen: white christmas tree

Just ended my day with Sweet Paul's Holiday Magazine. Have you flipped through it yet?

I was going to share a favorite page, but instead it became a list: the cranberry almond streusel cake, the cupcake flowers gift wrap, the decor kit (available here), this entire party theme (!), the tree of memories, this centerpiece and this teaser. Maybe you should just have a look yourself..

minted: photo calendars

2010-11-14T19:56:00.000-08:00

seen: Minted photo calendars, $29-39

I've made & gifted photo calendars before and believe that they can make such a thoughtful gift (sometimes tricky to avoid the tacky). But these? Easily my favorite I've ever seen and definitely on my to give & to get list this year.

[originally seen on stephmodo]

"imagination is a terrible thing to waste"

2010-11-14T19:42:00.000-08:00

seen: boys knight crown by curly bird, $25

seen: wool felt crowns by Dream Child Studio, $18+ (as seen here)

seen: Couronne écusson royal/Couronne des neiges by ateliers reinette, €15/16

seen: the storybook crown in black or white by elliebelliekids, $28

As a parent, I feel obligated to invest in creative play. Goal: grow a dress-ups collection and start with crowns.

topozoo

2010-11-12T19:41:00.000-08:00

seen: topozoo sets, $30 (seen here)

Topozoo: I have toys on the brain (love Christmas & giving) and these look brilliant. Choose from a safari, dinosaur or monster set and have 5-piece wooden animals (3 animals/set) that can be mixed and matched to create your own crazy zoo. (Made from recycled, formaldehyde-free MDF; finished with water-based, non-toxic stains; packaged in a recycled cardboard box. Made in the USA.)

go car

2010-11-12T19:27:00.000-08:00

seen: kid-o go car, green, $10

I've talked about my favorite Kid-O before, and we found another little gem yesterday. For $10, a sleek, smooth riding car with a built in handle in the prettiest grass green. Maybe my new go-to one year old gift; or a perfect ~~bribe~~ teaching tool for a little boy who is supposed to use words to get what he wants. (He can only play with the new & exciting go car by saying something resembling "car." Language = results. It's working. :)

And for fun, we're dying to try the real go cars in San Francisco. They have a 2 hour "locals tour" that looks like a great (but nail-biting) time. Have you go-cared?

framed: Lauren Pressey Photography

2010-11-07T20:09:00.000-08:00

by: Lauren Pressey

Lauren Pressey Photography

[blog]

Los Angeles

The Sam Project

Motherhood is nothing short of scary. I am constantly searching for balance. To focus on one thing at a time. To give my children, most importantly, my all. In my 2 1/2 short years of parenting, I continue to believe having a daughter might just prove to be the scariest endeavor I'll face. I fear doing, saying, or being the wrong thing and I'm well aware that we haven't even begun to scratch the surface.

This is Sam in a dress I once wore. To see her as so much of myself gives me perspective. Perspective on my ability to do my best as a mother and the hope that my best might be worth remembering.

*****

[See previous "framed" features here.]

diy holiday gift wrap

2010-11-07T19:53:00.000-08:00

seen: DIY potato-stamped gift wrap via Bloesem Kids

Oh man. I love this image. And the idea of potato or apple stamping our gift wrap this year. Wouldn't that be an incredible on-going craft project this month? Coordinating colors and choosing shapes and letting the boys help!

I would probably start here. And maybe try something like this in blue + metallics.

clothbound (children's) penguin classics

2010-11-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

seen: clothbound penguin classics for children

Did you know they have these colorful/artistic hard-bound classics for children too? I picked up The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn today, wishing I had gotten Peter Pan instead, but ready to just start a collection (to really read together) regardless. I found them at Anthropologie.

how we did halloween.

2010-11-04T11:50:00.000-07:00

We managed low-key costumes this year and the boys didn't know the difference. They were comfortable and face-paint-free. (& the practical in me especially loves that most of the pieces double as dress up or daily wardrobe additions.) This is how we did it:

Finn: superhero

super hero cap by Soil + Olive Juice union suit (used 30% off coupon- doubles as pajamas) + homemade yellow cotton star and cape.

Cole: Todd, the fox

Oeuf fox mask and tail set + essential apparel union suit ($15 no tax, free shipping) + homemade felt tummy.

My other favorite halloween showcases (although in a different league!):

tip: deal on outerwear.

2010-11-04T11:33:00.000-07:00

seen: reversible skate jacket, now $47.60

Did you know that Mini Boden is currently having a 30% off outerwear sale? It's true. We actually missed it (ordered a bit too early) but this coat came for Cole yesterday and we completely scored. It's made for these California winters- not bulky, warm, soft, reversible, with a hood! and many pockets! We went a size up (size 5-6 for a normal sized 4 1/2 year old) and it's perfect with a rolled sleeve- leaving enough room for layers. (I actually prefer wearing the army green (not shown) on the outside.)

This is how I like to do my shopping.

an awesome book of thanks

2010-11-04T11:16:00.000-07:00

seen: an awesome book of thanks, $16.95 [via Kids Haus]

Awesome World Store: We love collecting books. Ones that I can read, ones that Cole can read, ones that have good pictures and good messages too. This Awesome Book "series" is all of the above and I cannot wait to add it to our shelves, just in time for the season of thanks. View the inside of the book here.

p.s. Can pre-order on Amazon (prime) for $12.11!

London

2010-11-04T11:08:00.000-07:00

seen: London big print, $60 [via Cup of Jo]

Cosas Minimas by Blanca Gomez: London has my heart (lived there for several years growing up; met my husband Bradley there..) and I want it to have a place on my walls as well. This print feels just right.

inspired: twig&thistle glams up pumpkins

2010-10-26T20:37:00.000-07:00

[glitter pumpkin candle holder DIY here]

[pumpkin placecards DIY]

seen: twig&thistle for better homes and gardens

trim the tree: sundance style

2010-10-26T20:21:00.000-07:00

seen: gudari sari garland, $35

seen: naive holiday ornaments, set of 8, $28

seen: mercury glass initial ornaments, $15

seen: homespun holiday ornaments, set of 3, $35

My catalog came today and I loving the Sundance Catalog for the holidays this year. (Never too early?)

because sometimes Fall is all about food.

2010-10-19T12:57:00.001-07:00

seen: salted caramel and chocolate cake

Today, I need this kind of cake.

inspired: the super easy baby blanket

2010-10-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

tutorial here

This is how I want Fall to show itself in my home. Bold, stripy knit blankets thrown across arms and ottomans that would never need to be folded.

[A can-buy option here: Vinalhaven Wool Throw]

inchmark's potted pumpkin pies

2010-10-19T12:13:00.000-07:00

seen: potted pumpkin pies by inchmark

For the love of pumpkin season, quickly read this tutorial if you're on the search for a fun but traditional Halloween-ish (or Fall-ish) party dessert or favor.

wishing I could do this:

2010-10-13T14:55:00.000-07:00

seen: ferocious felt lion coat by little goodall

The coat doesn't fit our Halloween budget this year, but it has me wishing I was that creative. It's amazing and probably well worth it.

Look at this one too. I love that she did a take on Fantastic Mr. Fox (right?) because when Cole chose "a fox!" this year, I was hoping something like this would cut it. Instead, he wanted to be Todd from The Fox and The Hound. A real, literal fox. We're still working on that costume.

inspired: edible block prints

2010-10-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

seen: block printed cake

[originally from here.]

FEED trick-or-treat bag

2010-10-13T09:32:00.000-07:00

seen: FEED trick-or-treat bag to benefit Unicef, $16.15

After a week without internet (have mercy), we're back up and running and I'm happy. This treat was waiting in my inbox this morning and or course I love the idea of putting the chocolate and smarties in a burlap bag that, for each sold, donates a year of nutrients to help a child in the developing world survive. Free shipping even.

browsing motocross jackets

2010-10-06T10:03:00.000-07:00

seen: women's motocross jacket, ~~$69.50~~ now $47.99!

Kudos to Canvas. This is one of my favorite jackets of the season. With great ratings to boot.

[Which would go perfectly with this wishlist sweater in black violet.]

industrial task lamp

2010-10-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

seen: industrial task table lamp, turmeric

Are you really drawn to the industrial task lamps too? I want my house dotted with them and thought this new West Elm one looked pretty great with a matching price tag. (1/2 the price of my other yellow favorite.)

For kicks, this (now on sale!), in grass green, is sitting on my desk.