tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46435652332095571402024-03-13T18:17:09.251-04:00The Happy HeathenEvitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.comBlogger343125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-56073045135685730842011-03-09T23:23:00.002-05:002011-03-11T10:38:47.502-05:00♪Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes♪Michael and I purchased the domain '<a href="http://thehappyheathen.com/" target="_blank">thehappyheathen.com</a>' several years ago, but let the domain lapse. Someone snatched it up and sat on it for a couple of years and I recently discovered that it was up for grabs again. <b>I've also decided to move operations over to WordPress</b>. I've been holding off 'flipping the switch' while trying to finish some odds and ends, but it's becoming a bit of a pain in the arse to update both spaces. Hey, I'm paying for hosting across the street. <br />
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Please update your bookmarks with <b>http://thehappyheathen.com</b>!<br />
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<a href="http://thehappyheathen.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5300/5514065342_c1cef6fb99_b.jpg" width="550" alt="thehappyheathen.com" /></a>Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-53908997314603128002011-03-08T09:11:00.000-05:002011-03-08T09:11:37.753-05:00Elizabeth McGrath<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5174/5509331548_2d7ded6551_o.jpg" width="500" alt="Elizabeth McGrath" /><br />
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Many thanks to my friend Amy for introducing me to the uh-mazing work of LA artist <a href="http://www.elizabethmcgrath.com/" target="_blank">Elizabeth McGrath</a>! She's the lead singer in the band <a href="http://www.missderringer.com/" target="_blank">Miss Derringer</a> and has been given the name <a href="http://bloodbaththemovie.com/" target="_blank">Bloodbath</a> McGrath in reference to the subject matter of her work. Click on the bloodbath link to read more about a documentary on her life.<br />
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Pictured above: <a href="http://www.elizabethmcgrath.com/sculpture-Savoy.php" target="_blank">Savoy</a> | <a href="http://www.elizabethmcgrath.com/diorama-IncurableDisorder.php" target="_blank">The Incurable Disorder</a> | <a href="http://www.elizabethmcgrath.com/sculpture-Weasels.php" target="_blank">The Weasels</a> | <a href="http://www.elizabethmcgrath.com/sculpture-OneDay.php" target="_blank">One Day</a>.<br />
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This hauntingly beautiful bird reminds me of someone very close to me who's spectacularly talented. The world needs to know more about her as well. ♥Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-26168960853854932792011-03-07T10:29:00.000-05:002011-03-07T10:29:29.678-05:00Splish, Splash<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5299/5505678949_7daa509d0c.jpg" width="500" height="373" alt="fish" /><br />
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We bought some fish for the pond on Friday night. They're the 27¢ variety goldfish and we hope they are like our last group, which grew to a nice size. Too bad the raccoons got them after they survived the moved to Atlanta. We tried several times to get photos of them at the old place, but even when we gave them food they took cover when the camera came out. <br />
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We named that one Siegfried and sadly, he didn't make it. He now rests between the pagoda and pond. We even gave him a little tombstone. I know it's just a little goldfish but I've never been able to not get attached.<br />
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<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5100/5506467946_f71694d08d.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="Here Lies Siegfried the Goldfish" />Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-24970056422520799002011-03-04T09:38:00.002-05:002011-03-04T11:08:45.107-05:00Bon Weekend - Thinking of Calgon colored water<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5298/5475342976_3a498ff8a6_o.jpg" width="500"><br />
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{ <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/selflesh/3839555997/in/set-72157612368170643/" target="_blank">Basin</a> by <a href="http://artistshannonrankin.com/artwork/983710_Basin.html" target="_blank">Shannon Rankin</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68061085/opal-topographic-ring-size-8" target="_blank">Ring</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58273705/topography-vintage-lucite-and-silver" target="_blank">Necklace</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62868615/you-are-here-custom-8-x-10-handcut" target="_blank">Custom cut body of water by Crafterall</a> }<br />
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I've been very lax in posting this week as Wednesday found us in the ER to treat Michael. He's ok and on the mend but for the most part, I've been out of commission since Tuesday. All the work in the garden and the simply amazing weather recently has kept my mind on Calgon colored waters and my love of topography. However, we've now been hit with a new blast of cold and grey, so I think it's even better that I share a few pieces from some of my <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> boards and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy</a>! <br />
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Also, I couldn't think of a better time to revisit the post highlighting the incredible work of <a href="http://thehappyheathen.blogspot.com/2010/07/linda-glass.html" target="_blank">Linda Glass</a>.<br />
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Bon weekend to all!<br />
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ETA: after I published this post the sun came out and the temperature is on the rise!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-59850200433481934792011-03-02T17:49:00.000-05:002011-03-02T17:49:35.302-05:00Offbeat Home DIY Feature!<a href="http://offbeathome.com/2011/03/sewing-machine-desk" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5174/5492423267_44bd1a7d0b_b.jpg" width="500" alt="Offbeat Home DIY Feature" /></a><br />
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As promised, here is the second feature post on <a href="http://offbeathome.com">OBH during launch week</a>! Whee! I shared our sewing table to computer table transformation with all the offbeat homies. If you haven't been there yet, please stop by the site and have a look around.<br />
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Thanks Offbeat Home!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-17700361657471352062011-03-01T13:39:00.001-05:002011-03-01T14:22:05.204-05:00AND THE WINNER IS...<img SRC="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5093/5489080599_242c0fb493_b.jpg" width="500"><br />
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Ms. Robinson, if you would be so as to drop me an email at submissions{@}thehappyheathen{.}com, I'd be most appreciative!<br />
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I'd like to thank everyone who participated this time and I hope to have another one sometime in March.Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-1987652398373101062011-03-01T11:17:00.002-05:002011-03-01T14:01:31.941-05:00B is for BarnacleOr...how I may have just overcome my fear of them. I was on another Etsy adventure the other night and stumbled upon a piece of artwork featuring barnacles. I've always been pretty frightened of the alien looking forms and I've had my share of run-ins with the arthropods. I actually envision them gleefully waiting for some soft fleshy skin. If you don't keep your ladders or boat scraped, the chances of such an encounter with them rises considerably. Even in a swift tide you can get brushed up on a dock piling and get cut.<br />
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These pieces have been designed and crafted in a way that has helped me gain a new appreciation of their beauty and form.<br />
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<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5256/5489207950_f70ed1fe90_z.jpg" width="500" /><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58399688/barnacle-belt-buckle" target="_blank">Belt Buckle</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66656218/ocean-blue-barnacle-vase-with-crackle" target="_blank">Vase</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/39142090/the-wise-barnacle-8x8-print" target="_blank">Print</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/54483403/pearl-and-copper-barnacle-necklace" target="_blank">Necklace</a><br />
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<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5298/5489207980_8d066f9f32.jpg" width="500" /><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/38503755/pearl-of-my-eyes-barnacle-cluster" target="_blank">Necklace</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68190440/barnacles-away-from-home" target="_blank">Hanging</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/48170776/portholes" target="_blank">Resin Mold Picture</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62740556/barnacle-ring-with-235k-gold-leaf" target="_blank">Ring</a><br />
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<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5058/5489207902_0098dfb17a_z.jpg" width="500" /><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68246533/ooak-lagoon-sculptural-crochet" target="_blank">Wall Plaque</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65400193/aristotles-lantern-pendantbrooch" target="_blank">Brooch</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/50742910/sculptural-ceramic-vessel-pinch-pot-with" target="_blank">Pinch Pot</a> | <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/14405593/barnacle-cufflinks" target="_blank">Cuff Links</a><br />
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Last, but not least, here are four more pieces that are sure to help the barnacle lovers come out in all of us! Wear this soft <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61884023/barnacle-the-whale-felt-brooch" target="_blank">Barnacle the Whale</a> felt brooch during the day and come home to a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/50880201/b-is-for-barnacle" target="_blank">delightful print</a> that proclaims that 'b' is indeed for barnacle. Or maybe you like things a little edgier with this wide <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62371552/barnacle-ring" target="_blank">sterling and copper barnacle ring</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/42318656/barnacle-painting-number-4" target="_blank">mixed media painting</a> that reminds me of a cluster of volcanoes!<br />
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Bring on more art therapy!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-76212043690417722292011-02-28T09:10:00.005-05:002011-03-02T17:50:53.632-05:00Pelmet box feature on the newly launched Offbeat Home!<a href="http://offbeathome.com/2011/02/starry-bedroom-pelmet" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5132/5485011108_4d8001fa90_z.jpg" width="500" alt="OffbeatHome" /></a><br />
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Is it really Monday? We spend a couple of hours in the yard before an oyster roast on Saturday and then we were back at for a good portion of the day yesterday. I feel great but I'm a little foggy today. If we could keep this pace throughout April, I believe we'll have something pretty spectacular for the summer season. <br />
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The newly developed <a href="http://offbeathome.com/" target="_blank">Offbeat Home</a> ran a soft launch last week this week is the 'Grand Opening'. I submitted our <a href="http://thehappyheathen.blogspot.com/2011/01/i-love-you-more-than-all-stars.html" target="_blank">bedroom pelmet</a> and it is one of the posts live for launch! Head on over and check out the site.<br />
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Thanks Offbeat Home! Stay tuned to the site as I have one more little piece being featured this week!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-74606709399852662722011-02-25T10:44:00.000-05:002011-02-25T10:44:09.353-05:00Bon Weekend - Killer Rabbit of Caerbannog<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68266117/lefton-bunny-rabbit" target="_blank"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.217860803.jpg" width="500"></a><br />
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During an Etsy search the other day I ran across this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68266117/lefton-bunny-rabbit" target="_blank">adorable hare</a>. No really, it's really charming, but my mind immediately drifted into <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0071853/" target="_blank">Holy Grail</a> territory. If only it had a little more red on it, it would make for a lovely version of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabbit_of_Caerbannog" target="_blank">'Killer Rabbit of Caerbannog'</a>. Someone please give it a good home!<br />
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I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and please don't forget to participate in <a href="http://thehappyheathen.blogspot.com/2011/02/clever-title-for-giveaway-needed.html" target="_blank">my first giveaway</a>!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-50691650691902373022011-02-23T11:11:00.000-05:002011-02-23T11:11:45.762-05:00The Accidental LampThe accicental lamp arrived yesterday and...we've decided to use this in the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5416288948/in/set-72157625675456363/" target="_blank">corner in question</a>. It was sold sans shade so we'll need to be address that ASAP! I've seen a few of the old lamps with milk glass shades {would need an extra clamp?} and I'm going in search of one. Like the other lamp, we'll clean/rebuild the old socket. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/38016153@N03/5469756005/" target="_blank" title="Lotus Lamp by dan y deri, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5057/5469756005_a6663a9e6b_o.jpg" width="500" alt="Lotus Lamp" /></a><br />
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Michael has *suggested* that the other lamp would be perfect in his lab.Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-23702652067943358852011-02-22T07:44:00.005-05:002011-03-04T10:24:53.230-05:00Science & ArtThe <a href="http://thehappyheathen.blogspot.com/2011/02/shine-light-on-me.html">first lamp</a> arrived on Saturday. I gotta say, it's not just a lamp, it's a work of art. Seriously, this is the kind of stuff that makes us giddy and the thought of breaking it down and carefully restoring it to it's former glory is very inspiring. The photos are of the lamp having just been pulled out of the box, so it's a little dusty. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/38016153@N03/5463128625/" title="Gooseneck lamp by dan y deri, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5060/5463128625_976ba6721b_b.jpg" width="500" alt="Gooseneck lamp" /></a><br />
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As we suspected from looking at the original photo, the shade and socket are brass. We aren't sure about the neck and base just yet. The Mason's emblem is in pretty good shape. The cord is an entertaining patch job and we would replace it with cloth covered wire if it weren't going on the wall. Then again, we have that second lamp coming in...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/38016153@N03/5460120342/" title="Gooseneck Lamp by dan y deri, on Flickr"><img alt="Gooseneck Lamp" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5298/5460120342_3403ea9429_b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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The socket has a porcelain insulator inside and is in wonderful condition other than needing a good cleaning and new wiring, and we're so using it. In the second photo, Michael is trying to clean the plastic switches with <a href="http://www.gojo.com/united-states/market/automotive/products/selfdispense/639606.aspx">GOJO</a> to see if they're made of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bakelite">Bakelite</a>. It works the same way that using Scrubbing Bubbles in that whatever you're using to rub the cleaner on with will turn yellowish. GOJO cleans Bakelite to a beautiful shine, and maybe I'll be able to convince Michael to post the process of when he buffed the dial of his new <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/34488155@N03/5382955652/">Variac</a>. His first attempt tells us no, but he's going to try it again now that the socket unit is completely disassemlbled.<br />
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I hope this won't take too long as I want to declare our room finished for this phase. Garden weather is upon us!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-66464634597405868662011-02-22T07:40:00.001-05:002011-02-23T11:46:02.252-05:00The Garden Salad DaysGarden progress! The weather was absolutely uh-mazing this past weekend and we've spent the last three days outside. It's been a while since we've truly felt like we could start something in terms of an outdoor living space. The last two houses were temporary dwellings and we decided not to spend too much energy, or money for that matter, trying to make permanent outdoor features. I can be very impatient and I can easily forget that the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/sets/72157594155673395/" target="_blank">garden sanctuary we had in Atlanta</a> took a couple of years of hard work and we had certain advantages, such as no real yard maintenance. I do love container gardens! We moved into this house a little late in the season to really start planting. Top that off with the hottest summer on record and we pretty much hid indoors.<br />
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Ok, back to what we've done so far. Our <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/521332794/in/set-72157594155673395/" target="_blank">old pond form</a> has been in the garage since we left Atlanta. Today it is comfortably setting in it's new digs. I even have a little animated gif behind the jump of the digging process. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5463947408/" target="_blank" title="Pond - Phase I by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img alt="Pond - Phase I" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5253/5463947408_3af9cf660b_z.jpg" width="550" /></a><br />
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If you click through to the hosted photo on Flickr you can see a few notes I've set up to explain the next phase of work to be done in this section. We're undecided where the second pagoda is going to live. A little history of those two - mom bought them for the front gate of the old family house. When Michael and I moved everything out two years ago, they came with us. <a href="http://staceybode.com/blog/" target="_blank">Stacey</a> got a <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/38016153@N03/3638590102/in/set-72157618780161283/" target="_blank">great shot</a> of one during the wedding.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5466396171/" target="_blank" title="Patio pavers by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img alt="Patio pavers" height="374" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5213/5466396171_3256406c7d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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We bought 50 x 16" pavers. It took two trips to Lowes to bring these home. We actually need more! We got our workout for the day loading and unloading them. The beers definitely made things a little 'easier' these last few days.;)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5466992636/" target="_blank" title="Patio pavers by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img alt="Patio pavers" height="374" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5096/5466992636_e9be5940d8.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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This is the very temporary pad. We were desperate for a patio fix and to be able to kick back with some adult beverages and watch the clouds roll on by. When we actually lay the pavers for good they'll have an inch or two in between for moss, herbs and other creeping ground cover. We're about twenty squares short of our {my} desired patio size, but even just two more rows will be nice. The lounge chairs were purchased for our wedding. They were on sale for $25.00 at Target! We considered selling them before our move last year and now I'm glad we kept them. The <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/521332796/in/set-72157594155673395/" target="_blank">second pond</a> setup will go in front of the chimney, which is in the left of the photo.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5466992712/" target="_blank" title="Patio pavers by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img alt="Patio pavers" height="500" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5258/5466992712_2bf2a10994.jpg" width="374" /></a><br />
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It's a good thing I don't try to keep my nails well manicured. I honestly do not like wearing gloves while playing in the dirt. It's just so therapeutic to feel it, and even caked on my hands.<br />
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I'll continue to post progress photos.<br />
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I may go back and re-edit it at some point, we just wanted to get something up.<br />
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<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5136/5463346001_16ea76ced4_o.gif" />Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-45965645548160733532011-02-21T08:38:00.003-05:002011-02-21T20:14:40.338-05:00Clever Title for Giveaway Needed!<img alt="Click Me" onmouseout="this.src='http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5098/5457018692_1362d390c9_o.jpg'" onmouseover="this.src='http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5018/5457018742_301627a6b9_o.jpg'" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5098/5457018692_1362d390c9_o.jpg" /><br />
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I am thrilled to announce that the incredibly talented <a href="http://monpetitfantome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chad Merritt</a>, better known as <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/monpetitfantome" target="_blank">Mon Petit Fantome</a>, has offered one of his amazing {unframed} prints to one lucky reader! I posted earlier that I was completely taken with <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61913760/i-do-not-know-where-we-are-going-but-at" target="_blank">'I Do Not Know Where We Are Going, But At Least We Are Together'</a> and placed it on my wish list for the holidays. It now hangs in our bedroom and I can't stop looking at it!<br />
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Want to know how you win this absolutely charming print? <a name='more'></a><br />
I mentioned last week that I wanted to incorporate this photo in the contest and I think my plan is kind of clever.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5439104337/" title="Oh Deer. by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img alt="Oh Deer." height="500" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5054/5439104337_377e2585a0.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<i><b>Post a comment below</b> answering the question, "What did the duck say to the deer?". I can't wait to read the answers and hey, I am using <a href="http://www.random.org/" target="_blank">random.com</a> to generate the winner, so don't worry about having to come up with something original if someone has already answered with what you wanted to say and you're stumped! I will draw the winning number on next <b>Tuesday, March 1</b>. Invite your friends to play along!</i><br />
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So...what did the duck say to the deer?Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-33939117824334889162011-02-18T12:41:00.005-05:002011-02-18T17:56:06.931-05:00Bon Weekend<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5456441956/" target="_blank" title="Untitled by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5019/5456441956_8e1eeab8be_b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photo edited with <a href="http://bitween.co.kr/pictureshow/" target="_blank">Picture Show</a>. Thanks to Lara at <a href="http://www.piewacketblog.com/" target="_blank">Piewacket</a> for that wonderful tip!</span></i><br />
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Mom decided to give herself this LG TROMM set about four years ago and they've been great, but we've noticed that the dryer hasn't been working very well recently. Michael pulled the vent hose off a little over a month ago and cleaned out the caked on lint and such and we thought that may have helped, but no. So today we pulled out the dryer and set about searching for the cause. First we tried to take off the back cover. The many screws come out but the edges are riveted to the sides. We pulled off the top to see if the front would prove as inpenetrable. We couldn't see anything inside the compartment past the giant drum, but we were able to unharness the wire bundles and lift the top electrical section out and up a smidge to get to the screws to the front panel, and then the door screws. Voilà! The front panel finally came off and Michael could see the coils and other workings within the machine. He originally thought that something may have come loose and wet lint was escaping into the compartment and choking the coils, but they were gleaming. It wasn't until he was about to give up when he noticed the small air vents in the back and it dawned on him that we had too much vent hose length in the back. It will recess into the machine and it has been sitting against the vent and not allowing any air flow to the coils, essentially choking the system. We put it back together {not without me forgetting to hand him a piece making us start all over}, vacuumed everything we could and now we're set to see how it works. We've run it empty to see what the temp is and it's at the recommended 175° so we should be in good shape!<br />
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I've been a bit absent these last few days as we've been very lucky that mom has been experiencing a few relatively pain free days. The three of us piled into the car on Wednesday and headed up to <a href="http://www.brookgreen.org/" target="_blank">Brookgreen Gardens</a>, just north of Litchfield Beach, about an hour and forty-five minutes up Hwy 17. We didn't get through all of the gardens, but tickets are good for six days after your first visit! That's pretty friggin' awesome if you ask me. What we did see was really beautiful and we had wonderful time being together. Michael and I took a lot of pictures. I've only edited a couple from then and Monday at Middleton. We stopped in <a href="http://www.seaportgeorgetown.com/" target="_blank">Georgetown</a> for a late lunch along the waterfront. It was around 3:00 and most restaurants were closing to prep for dinner, but we found an incredible Italian restaurant called <a href="http://www.portofinosonthewharf.com/" target="_blank">Portofinos on the Warf</a>. We a calamari appetizer that was the best I've ever eaten and it went down nicely with <a href="http://www.birramoretti.com/home.htm" target="_blank">Moretti</a> from the tap.<br />
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Here are three pictures from Brookgreen Gardens so far...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5455103852/" target="_blank" title="Pegasus by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5133/5455103852_c00454cb9f_b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Pegusus.<br />
Granite, 1946-1954<br />
15 ft. 3 in. x 15 ft. 9 in. x 7 ft. 8 in.<br />
Signed: LAURA GARDIN FRASER 1946-1951 SCULPTOR / E. H. RATTI CARVER 1954<br />
S.1946.006</span></i><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5453738122/" target="_blank" title="Spigot by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5252/5453738122_b16c2b9847_b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">One of the fountain spigots at the Fountain of the Muses by Carl Milles.</span></i><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5455439112/" target="_blank" title="diana by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5133/5455439112_08264d9824_b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Diana. Bronze, designed in 1893, cast in 1979<br />
Unsigned<br />
Cast by Bedi-Makky Art Foundry<br />
Gift of Joseph Veach Noble in memory of Olive Ashley Mooney Noble<br />
S.1990.003<br />
There are multiple statues of Diana throughout the gardens</span>.</i><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Giveaway!</span></b><br />
I had really hoped to have gotten this together for this week, but I'm almost ready so I've decided run it next week!<br />
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I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-11052127500306794522011-02-15T11:59:00.002-05:002011-02-26T23:30:01.661-05:00Shine A Light On MeAnd the winner of the <a href="http://thehappyheathen.blogspot.com/2011/02/bon-weekend-lighting-ideas.html" target="_blank">lighting ideas post</a> is...a vintage gooseneck lamp! One of my old roommates, Shellie, and her husband Marc used to be partners in a restaurant downtown called Market East Bistro. They've long since moved to the mountains of North Carolina and started a <a href="http://www.marcotrattoria.com/" target="_blank">new dining venture</a>. Anyway, back at Market East Bistro a lot of Shellie's <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Shellies-Art-page/162333750457293" target="_blank">amazing artwork</a> was featured on the walls alongside other local artists. She scoured many antique/thrift/junk shops for old gooseneck lamps and mounted them on the walls to spotlight the art. I loved the idea so much that I used it over my computer table in one of my lofts in Atlanta {I lived in a few} many years ago. I had an 'ah ha' moment a couple of days after that post and it dawned on me to use the same lighting method for the poster and headed over to eBay.* There were quite a few on the auction block and I was kind of shocked to see how much some sellers were asking for these even for starting bids! I settled on a couple and set our bids. The auctions ended within a day of each other so if I lost the first I'd try for the second. <br />
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The first lamp has an owl on the front and back of the base. To the left of the owl on the front is the word 'Science', and to the right the word 'Art'. The Free Mason's logo is in the center of the base and it also features a Greek Key border. Surprisingly, to me at least, the auction ended with only two bids and we were the winners at an incredibly good price. We were stoked and set about fantasizing how it was going to look once we got it in our hands and did whatever restoration it may need. In all the excitement I completely forgot that I had the other lamp set for bidding. Another beauty who's base design that I've never seen before, that of lotus blossoms. Yup, we won it as well for another great price, a steal, even! Below are photos of both lamps that were snagged from the auction pages. <br />
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<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5177/5447806803_baaaedaa49_o.jpg" width="500" /><br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5058/5447855733_ff7f7511d7_o.jpg" width="500" /><br />
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I have no idea which one will go over the poster but I'll be sure to update as things move along!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>*This is where I admit that I had completely forgotten Shellie's influence in this lighting choice until I posted about the new lamp on my Facebook. She mentioned the restaurant and I completely facepalmed. Yeah, I think I can be crafty at times but I gotta give credit where credit is due! It was only one of her many wonderful influences.</i></span>Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-3408793744607865742011-02-14T13:32:00.000-05:002011-02-14T13:32:28.150-05:00It's on Etsy, My Deer!Happy Monday! I'm a little late posting today as we just got back from another wonderful night at the <a href="http://theinnatmiddletonplace.com/" target="_blank">Inn at Middleton Place</a>. We won the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150176099929062&set=a.379724299061.209258.70087739061&theater" target="_blank">January Photo Contest</a> and the prize was a night for two at the Inn so we took advantage of an early Valentines celebration. I've said it before and I'll echo it today that it's a really awesome place!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5439104337/" title="Oh Deer. by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5054/5439104337_377e2585a0.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="Oh Deer." /></a><br />
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This trophy hangs at the Summerton Diner where we had lunch after our demonstation on Friday. I think the entire blogosphere is ahead of me featuring the deer trend in decor and fashion recently, but here's my take on alternatives to real deer trophies.<br />
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<img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4078/5442106615_7a1260292c_o.jpg" width="500"><br />
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1. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/42433839/brooch-nice-deer-free-shipping" target="_blank">Brooch</a> | 2. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61384181/stag-ring-woodland-fantasy-whimsical" target="_blank">Ring</a> | 3. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60900570/original-art-assemblage-trophy-deer" target="_blank">Trophy Deer</a> | 4. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/54763598/deer-silhouette-woodland-critters" target="_blank">Silhouette</a> | 5. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65511204/wool-pillow-deer-applique-sale" target="_blank">Pillow</a> | 6. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66583458/mother-nature" target="_blank">Mother Nature Necklace</a> | 7. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62246229/deer-with-antlers-vinyl-wall-art-decals" target="_blank">Decal</a> | 8. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63284046/stag-deer-grey-and-black-14-x-14" target="_blank">Pillow</a> | 9. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62052431/deer-felted-men-soap" target="_blank"> Felt Soap</a> | 10. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66913132/jagermeister-deer-pendant" target="_blank">Jagermeister Penedant</a> <br />
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There are several more treasures that I wanted to add to the collection but it would be a mile long, so I'm adding more as text links. I've had my eye on Fable and Fury's <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63300365/neo-victorian-woodland-raven-stag" target="_blank">Neo Victorian Woodland Raven Stag</a> necklace since I made one of my treasuries a couple months back. This <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/45057662/bambi-brooch" target="_blank">deer stick pin</a> is so adorable. Or how about a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66622622/rustic-bronze-deer-mountstagwalnut" target="_blank">bronze deer mount</a>? I would love to sport this striking <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65762612/exaggerated-the-mysterious-elk-deer" target="_blank">bracelet</a>! There's also the very popular <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/59900001/buck-jr-medium-deer-trophy-brown" target="_blank">cardboard trophy</a> by Cardboard Safari. Ok, I need to stop now! Maybe I'll curate another deer inspired post soon.<br />
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I am planning to use the photo from the diner as part of my first ever giveaway later this week. Stay tuned!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-42276976939222287232011-02-11T23:30:00.000-05:002011-02-11T23:30:08.308-05:00Battery Leap Frog.<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5437899742/" title="Clicker jump rig by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5211/5437899742_50ee23912f_z.jpg" width="550"></a><br />
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Our adventure started out this morning with a dead battery in our truck. As Michael was letting the car run/charge, the keys got locked inside the cab, even the spare. But wait, we had a clicker! Uh oh that battery was dead too. Michael, thinking quickly, rigs this battery jump and we were able to open the truck!<br />
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*Whew*Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-31552725544877304962011-02-11T05:59:00.001-05:002011-02-11T05:59:45.546-05:00Bon Weekend - The Mad Scientist's Assistant.<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtgiPwvuCdwzH9iE4PjFU8xP3xkKQ0twfhPGsyEWE9xeDbWactm4ZrbqxcOFI45-brRyFtUOX_RyiMLaiI6BMAfA4asAF82mWfEj6knbQd5o22mlXj9Pn1DfYWgc7petoMQZQIpXi-HK9G/s400/800+large+young+frankenstein+blu-rayx2.jpeg" width="500" /><br />
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Happy Friday! I'm off to Summerton, SC where I get to play Inga for Michael as he performs a day of Tesla/High Voltage demonstrations at the high school where one of my cousins teaches science. He's done it before at Norcross High School, but I wasn't able to be with him. I'm bringing the camera and hope to get some pictures!<br />
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I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">{ Image of Teri Garr as Inga from Young Frankenstein taken from a Blue Ray screenshot. I grabbed it from the internet a while back and can't remember where! }</span>Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-53207580196303401162011-02-10T13:30:00.001-05:002011-02-10T13:50:45.056-05:00Rien ne me fera vous oublier...Nothing will make me forget you.<b>The Suitor</b><br />
Michael and I found this postcard at an antique shop last year. He laughed that he would love to do something like this for me some time*. I forgot to write down what was written on the back {or at least try to decipher the handwritten script} before framing, but I think the front has plenty of sentiment.<br />
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<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5255/5434242186_565bc01fb9_z.jpg" width="600" alt="The Suitor" /><br />
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*I'm thinking of you right now, <a href="http://staceybode.com/blog/" target="_blank">Stacey Bode</a>.Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-54984566431339066232011-02-09T12:04:00.004-05:002011-02-10T09:06:55.901-05:00Guest Post at Offbeat Mama!I really adore how Candice {a fellow Charlestonian} decorated her son Brewer's room. So much so that it was featured as a guest post today at <a href="http://offbeatmama.com/2011/02/vintage-kids-room">Offbeat Mama</a>. Please go check it out!<br />
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<a href="http://offbeatmama.com/2011/02/vintage-kids-room" title="Guest post I did for Offbeat Mama by dan y deri, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5093/5430832671_6e9c34b30b_b.jpg" width="500" alt="Guest post I did for Offbeat Mama" /></a><br />
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Also, you should check out Candice's own blog, <a href="http://ragamuffindesign.wordpress.com/">Ragamuffin Design</a>.Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-58839322807019810272011-02-09T10:48:00.001-05:002011-02-09T10:56:37.056-05:00Etsy coupling in our bedroom.<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/le_chat_noir/5428770647/" title="roddy & ginger pillow by le papillon vert, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5140/5428770647_5db51c6acf_b.jpg" width="500" alt="roddy & ginger pillow" /></a><br />
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We finally got around to getting a pillow form to go inside the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/roddyandginger" target="_blank">roddy&ginger</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60480116/pomegranate-tree-cushion-in-red-on-white" target="_blank">pomegranate tree pillow cover</a> we <a href="http://roddyandginger.blogspot.com/2010/11/lucky-winners.html" target="_blank">won</a> {and which arrived from London} in November! It's hand screen-printed onto white linen and backed with a beautiful grey linen. It's soft and beautiful and it is a welcomed addition to our bedroom. Better late than never, right? Thank you roddy&ginger!<br />
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The picture above the chair is an 8" x 10" print of an original papercut from Etsy seller, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/monpetitfantome" target="_blank">Mon Petit Fantome</a> and is titled, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61913760/i-do-not-know-where-we-are-going-but-at" target="_blank">'I Do Not Know Where We Are Going, But At Least We Are Together'</a>. I featured one of their papercut prints in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4cc78d078fb86d919bf5bf59/papercuts-silhouettes" target="_blank">Papercuts & Silhouettes</a> Etsy treasury last year. The partial picture does not do it any justice. At all. The black is thick {for lack of a better word} and the white just pops off the page.<br />
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Don't mind the branches...I haven't decided if they're staying in that corner.Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-17625234029926421302011-02-08T15:58:00.000-05:002011-02-08T15:58:06.166-05:00They Might Be Giants - High-Voltage Pylon Competition in Iceland.I stumbled across one of these images on Flickr last night and wanted to share their story. Oh how I would love to see these in around here!<br />
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<a href="http://landsnet.is/" target="_blank">Landsnet</a>, a public company that owns and runs the electrical transmission system in Iceland where 80% of the electricity is from green sustainable sources such as geothermal power, was working with the Association of Icelandic Architects to obtain new ideas for the appearances of the towers and lines. The competition was announced worldwide and the entrants could design completely new looks or they could alter the appearance of existing towers. American firm <a href="http://www.choishine.com/" target="_blank">Choi + Shine Architects</a> sought to create a series of towers that would become monuments in the landscape, something more than just a necessity. The pylons would require only slight alterations to the existing towers. The pylons could also be in configured in different positions, depending on the terrain and environment. If the power lines ascended a hill, the pylons could imitate a climber.<br />
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<i>Says Choi + Shine:</i><br />
<blockquote><i>Like the statues of Easter Island, it is envisioned that these one hundred and fifty foot tall, modern caryatids will take on a quiet authority, belonging to their landscape yet serving the people, silently transporting electricity across all terrain, day and night, sunshine or snow.</i></blockquote><br />
The concept won honorable mention in the competition, and it were one of four winners at the <a href="http://www.architects.org/design_awards_programs/index.cfm?doc_id=274" target="_blank">2010 Boston Society of Architects Unbuilt Architecture competition</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/38016153@N03/5428608091/" title="icelandicGiants by dan y deri, on Flickr"><img alt="icelandicGiants" height="1350" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5091/5428608091_f29d83d0d3_o.jpg" width="600" /></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">{ All images by Choi + Shine }</span><br />
To read more about these incredible designs, please visit <a href="http://www.choishine.com/port_projects/landsnet/landsnet.html" target="_blank">Land of the Giants™</a>.Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-13829787193551836382011-02-07T15:00:00.001-05:002011-02-07T15:01:20.702-05:00It's in the stars.<a href="http://www.barnebygates.com/designer-wallpapers-for-walls-all-star-01.htm" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.barnebygates.com/images/shop/All-Star-Gun-Metal.jpg"></a><br />
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I found the above image on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> during the weekend. It's the <a href="http://www.barnebygates.com/designer-wallpapers-for-walls-all-star-01.htm" target="_blank">'All Star' wallpaper</a> from Barneby Gates, the company who makes the gorgeous <a href="http://thehappyheathen.blogspot.com/2010/11/say-yes-to-wallpaper.html" target="_blank">Deer Damask</a> wallpaper I posted about a while back. It's really beautiful and it made me take another turn in what I'm envisioning for our bedroom walls. <br />
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Two things have been certain in my mind since we knew we were buying this house, flat white walls with high-gloss white highlights. I want subtle yet interesting textures in the room without overpowering it. At first I thought about stenciling and couldn't decided between these <a href="http://thehappyheathen.blogspot.com/2010/06/input-would-be-greatly-appreciated.html" target="_blank">three stencil designs</a> from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CuttingEdgeStencils" target="_blank">Cutting Edge Stencils</a> on Etsy. We chose the first design and ordered it. It's a really wonderful stencil and I want to use it, but we have a few odd angles and several corners { more than four } in the room, and I've been debating whether I wanted to put so much work into right now. I decided to roll it up for another time or another room and then began thinking about doing something freehand. The idea was very appealing but I was beginning to see that the walls are holding up progress in finishing the space. So I went back to an idea that's been greatly influenced by the AMAZING designs of <a href="http://www.modachromehome.com/" target="_blank">Modachrome Home</a>'s wonderfully talented Eve, where I would cut the designs from sticker vinyl. Using this process would allow us to stage the room and begin to feel at home while applying the highlights. I was toying with the idea of something in a fleur-de-lis with freehand embellishments when I stumbled up on the image above. Ah ha! How awesome would it be to continue the stars theme on to the walls? They don't have to be in a uniform pattern and even better is that I won't have to take anything down to apply them!<br />
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I think it sounds like a darn nifty idea. And by darn nifty, I mean easy and hopefully painless. I'm ordering the vinyl today and will post progress shots. I don't think it will take too long to complete the project.<br />
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OH! We've made a decision on the light fixture from <a href="http://thehappyheathen.blogspot.com/2011/02/bon-weekend-lighting-ideas.html" target="_blank">last week's post</a>. We're going the route of eBay and I'll post more if we win the auction. Please wish us luck!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-32380626354638812012011-02-06T10:58:00.004-05:002011-02-06T12:43:36.686-05:00Snarks the Clarks no more.<img alt="I love awesome deals." height="500" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5293/5419652797_106a188911.jpg" width="500" /><br />
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While Michael went to buy a few parts at Radio Shack, I walked down to <a href="http://www.phillipsshoes.com/" target="_blank">Phillips Shoes</a> to drool at their {limited collection} of <a href="http://www.elnaturalista.com/index.php/en" target="_blank">El Naturalista</a>'s. They are having a sale, 50 - 75% off selected shoes. I wandered over to the rack and found the most adorable <a href="http://www.clarksusa.com/" target="_blank">Clarks</a> clogs. I've needed a new pair of clogs since my last wooden soled pair bit it a couple years ago. I must confess that I've snarked the Clarks in my time saying that they design towards an older audience. Sure, I had a pair of <a href="http://www.clarksusa.com/eng/product/wallabee_women/35395" target="_blank">Wallabee</a>'s when I was a kid, but their collection was never appealing to me. Well, somewhere along the line they started designing <a href="http://www.clarksusa.com/eng/all/womens" target="_blank">hipper looking shoes</a> and I got older. Worlds collide and wham! I'm sporting a pair of <a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91vIX1AM8EL._SL1500_.jpg" target="_blank">sassy shoes</a> at 75% off! <br />
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My feet are very happy right now.<br />
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eta - I really should proof my posts better!Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4643565233209557140.post-41341832722236588902011-02-04T10:13:00.004-05:002011-02-04T12:00:03.946-05:00Bon Weekend - Lighting Ideas!Michael and I were in Lowe's yesterday and I veered into the lighting department. I have been thinking about the possibility of mounting a sconce on the wall above the Jane Avril poster to highlight this corner of the bedroom, especially at night or in the grey weather like we're having now. I'm glad I went online to find photos of what we saw in person as two weren't in stock in the store and I really like them. I not saying which ones though.<br />
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Anyway, I would love some feedback as to which would look best or if this is even a good idea.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/38016153@N03/5415477003/" title="Possible Lighting Ideas by dan y deri, on Flickr"><img alt="Possible Lighting Ideas" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5060/5415477003_27c83c141b_z.jpg" width="550" /></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">{ Click on image to enlarge }</span><br />
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I really had to bump up the light in this photo as it was almost dark in the room this morning.Evitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12876819967021690737noreply@blogger.com0