good-grace

On the farm...

2011-07-27T11:37:00.012-05:00

Although I love browsing through Treasuries on Etsy, I rarely make one. (I don't think I'm that good at it, and it seems to take me forever.) Here is my latest attempt at curating a collection - inspired by memories of the visits to my Grandparents farm.

Everything was always a bit more "special" when we were at Grandma & Grandpa's house - from buttered toast on the pastel colored melmac dishes, to grape juice in the pretty little juice glasses. Fresh sliced tomatoes and cucumbers in a creamy dill sauce. Chasing kittens around the yard, playing house in the little old outbuilding with mismatched china and whatnot. Stringing notes down through the floor vent from upstairs - down to the living room below. Climbing on the haystacks. Screaming when we found a spider, cricket or box elder bug - and Grandma coming to the rescue. She was such a pretty woman with dark hair, sparkling blue eyes - and she always smelled so good. (Even when she smoked her Salem Menthol cigarettes.) At lunchtime, we had to be especially quiet for the market reports on KeloLand - so grandpa could get "the dirt" on all things related to his cattle business.

What are some of your favorite summer/childhood memories?

Powerful ... The Girl Effect

2010-09-15T09:53:00.004-05:00

A really powerful message via The Girl Effect & Care.org.

Karen Walker ... love ...

2010-03-03T09:47:00.005-06:00

One of the wonders from down under... I love everything in her collections. Playful, classic, quirky, colorful, pretty - Karen Walker manages to accomplish these things brilliantly - from the designs, fabrics and construction to the final presentation. ( mwah! ) And can you imagine designing two seasons for each season? The northern hemisphere and southern hemisphere?

all images via: KarenWalker

Dave Matthews Band ... You and Me ...

2010-02-09T12:13:00.003-06:00

Not sure where I've been, but I just heard this the other day on the radio - seems like the perfect song for Valentine's Day. (...and it makes me wish I could play the guitar.)

(video via Dave Matthews Band on YouTube)

Delicate Underpinnings ...

2010-02-05T13:15:00.009-06:00

(from top left, counter clockwise: undrest via Anthropologie - Phillip Lim 3.1 - amelie via undrest - Nina Ricci )
(above images via Elle.com)

With all of the cold weather, snow, rain, and wind - Spring cannot come soon enough. These pretty, pretty underpinnings aren't necessarily meant for Spring, but they conjure up the light, playful spirit that I associate with the season.

Until then, I will wish for these lovely, cozy pieces from Toast.

(bottom six images via Toast)

Buy more, save more ...

2010-02-04T12:09:00.004-06:00

Is there something in the shop that you've been eyeing, but maybe the price wasn't quite right? Starting today, Good Grace is having a progessive sales event. The more you buy, the more you save. :)

Purchase one item, receive 10% off that item.*
Purchase two items, receive 20% off each of those items.*
Purchase three or more items, receive 30% off all of the chosen items.*

*Sale does not apply to shipping charges. A revised PayPal invoice can be requested, or a refund can be issued via PayPal.

What is your favorite item? I'm telling you, if those turquoise suede boots were my size, they would not be in the shop. And I'm loving the mocha squiggle blouse and the 1940's funnel neck coat... oh yes, and that faux shearling Men's lumberjack coat ...

Lisa Leonard Designs...

2010-02-03T21:30:00.006-06:00

Where to begin? Several months ago, I was introduced to the beautiful pieces created by Lisa Leonard over on a couple of my favorite blogs (Joanna's and Melisa's). Her family crest pieces really had me all aflutter ... although I could seriously take home nearly everything in her online shop. Anywhooo, a few months ago, she purchased an item from my shop. (wow!) Unfortunately, as I was preparing the item for shipment, I noticed a problem with a button - and for the life of me, could not find a replacement for it. I was stumbling all over myself trying to make it right - eventually deciding to issue a full credit -- then mailed her item to her, along with a note explaining my unfortunate oversight. (oy vey!) A few weeks passed when an unexpected little package arrived in my mailbox - showing a return address belonging to Lisa Leonard. Oh my... the box was far too small to contain her item (if she was upset with me and returning it). What could it possible be?

Oh. My. Gosh.

So incredibly lovely! I was completely stunned. Who would have imagined? So completely kind, gracious and generous.... and totally unexpected. The epitome of "paying it forward", in a sense. (And by the way, I get compliments on it every single time I wear it. I love it!)

In addition, one of the things that really drew me to Lisa's work even more, was her blog! It is a visual treat for the eyes and fantastically inspiring on SO many levels. She is one amazing woman - and a wonderful mom.

Top six images via Lisa Leonard Online.

Katharine Hepburn ...

2009-12-31T20:17:00.005-06:00

"If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun" ... The gorgeous, enigmatic, Katharine Hepburn.

This estate sale find reminded me of her the minute I started snapping pictures. Exceptional craftsmanship and such a sexy, menswear inspired fit.

Now in the shop.

... by the way, here's to wishing you a very Happy New Year!! :)

... being added now ...

2009-11-28T12:25:00.003-06:00

Here's a preview of what is being added to the shop ...

Mixing Patterns...

2009-11-26T10:10:00.001-06:00

Another goodie from this months Country Living magazine. A peek inside Glenn Holley's Virginia home... loving the mix of patterns and pops of color.

images: via Country Living magazine

A Swedish Christmas ...

2009-11-25T19:55:00.011-06:00

From this month's Country Living magazine... inside the home of interior designer Edie van Breems at Christmas time. Gorgeous!!

(And her book with Rhonda Eleish looks positively inspiring ... Swedish Country Interiors.)

images: Country Living magazine

Aunt Hazel's cookies ... via Natalie

2009-11-21T19:58:00.005-06:00

So here's the recipe for the incredible chocolate chip cookies from Natalie. (Thanks Nat!!) It is a family recipe handed down to her from her aunt Hazel Erickson. (Thank you, Aunt Hazel!!)

Now... these bad boys call for shortening (read: Crisco). But Natalie swears it's what gives them their wonderful, crispy tender texture. So ... I guess I will be buying my first can of shortening very soon.

Aunt Hazel's Chocolate Chip Cookies ...

1 cup shortening
1/2 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla
Cream above ingredients.
Fold in 2 well beaten eggs.
Sift 2 1/4 cup flour.
1 tsp soda
1 tsp salt
Add a bag of chocolate chips.
Bake 10 minutes at 350 degrees.

Inspiration ... Ämanda Belle Rogue's Polyvore Sets

2009-11-16T10:27:00.004-06:00

After checking Twitter this morning (lame, I know...), I found a new Twitter follower's Polyvore set. Ämanda Belle Rogue is a fashion merchandising student and I'll have you know, I have wasted an incredibly inordinate amount of time perusing her gorgeous collections. Apparently, I still love anything black, and I'm also partial to ruffles, lace, bows, sparkles and shimmer, grays, taupe and muted pastels. Lord, help me.

FYI - All of this loveliness reminds me of Emily ... a brilliant blogger with an insanely well-honed fashion eye (love her [If I Were a Buyer...] posts...) who is also a genius with economics (oy vey!).

Coming soon...

2009-11-01T10:43:00.006-06:00

Working on getting these "new" vintage pieces into the shop. Loving the "no shrinking violet" Hawaiian dress ... the handknit emerald green, mohair, lined sweater coat, and the three piece fine wale corduroy suit! (and that's an authentic WWII Air Force Wool Pea Coat!!) Oh yes... I especially love the men's wool duffle coat, too. Oh... what to choose, what to choose...

Still need a costume...?

2009-10-31T22:18:00.009-05:00

Aren't these great? You can find all of them over at Speckyboy Design Magazine.

The R2-D2 mask is fabulous ... but I do love Christopher Walken!! Which one is your favorite?

Brooklyn-ites ... I am so jealous

2009-10-30T18:41:00.003-05:00

Seriously. I'm jealous for so many reasons. But this is the most recent. APC is having a "basement sale" in Brooklyn over the weekend.

Image via APC

Mine. All mine...

2009-10-29T09:46:00.006-05:00

Seeing Double (above)

Medal of Honor (below)

Look at my latest Etsy purchases!! I'm beyond thrilled with these beautiful necklaces from Hannah at Yes You Maigh. And no lie, when I pulled the package from the mailbox, I was giddy with excitement ... ripping into the package before I had even stepped into the house. I found her shop last week - I think while I was browsing treasuries. (To be honest, her pretty little avatar made me click. Loving the hair. Aren't I lame?) She had them packaged beautifully in little craft boxes tied with twine - with some extra, handcrafted goodies thrown in - and mailed in a recycle-able mailer (made of 90% recyled content and plastic free).

By the way - you have to read her descriptions as well. They are very storylike, with a wonderful bit of humor. (Read Medal of Honor here, and Seeing Double here.)

By the way, Hannah has an equally delightful blog: Yes You Maigh (be sure to click on the link for her gorgeous wedding photo's!)
and a vintage housewares shop on Etsy, too: Mother Maigh I

The gorgeous, portrait style photo's (top of each collage) are by Jon Chandler Photography (or find him here on facebook, or here on flickr).

Recipe Alert: Chicken Creole Soup ...

2009-10-28T11:10:00.000-05:00

I made this soup/stew over the weekend - and it is FABulous! Seriously. I am a soup snob. This is great! It has just enough "heat", plenty of body and lots of chicken. I'd even serve this to guests with some cornbread and a salad. I picked up this little mini-cookbook from Walgreen's the other day, and I have about two dozen recipes I'm dying to try.

Anyway... here's the recipe (fyi, anything with an asterisk means I veered from recipe):
Chicken Creole Soup
2 T butter
2 medium onions, coarsely chopped (about 1 cup)
2 medium celery stalks, coarsely chopped (about 1 cup)
1 medium green bell pepper, coarsely chopped (about 1 cup)
2 t finely chopped garlic
2 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1" pieces
1/4 c all purpose flour
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained*
4 c (32 oz) reduced sodium chicken broth*
2 c water
1 c uncooked regular long grain white rice*
1 t salt
1/4 t ground red pepper (cayenne)
2 dried bay leaves

1: In 5 to 6 quart Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onions, celery, bell pepper, garlic and chicken; cook 7 to 9 minutes, stirring frequently, until onion is softened.

2: Stir in flour. Cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring constantly, until flour is light brown.

3: Stir in remaining ingredients. Heat to boiling. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover; cook 15 to 20* minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and chicken is no longer pink in center. Remove bay leaves.

*CHANGES*
...I used one 14.5oz can seasoned (for chili) diced tomatoes and one can 10 oz can Rotel (all I had in the house)
...I used regular chicken broth
...I used brown rice instead of white, which also meant I needed to adjust the simmer time to about 40 minutes to allow the brown rice to fully cook

I also let it sit on the stove, with the burner off and the lid off - to let some of the liquid evaporate -- I like it more like a stew.

(And I swear, I can't find the booklet for sale online... sorry.)

Snow ... and cookies ...

2009-10-12T15:00:00.007-05:00

After returning home from a weekend in the Black Hills, we woke up this morning to our first real snowfall of the season! (Setting a record for the earliest, significant snowfall - no less.) It was made all the sweeter because the kids don't have school today.

After throwing snow around for a couple of hours over at the neighbors house, the boys returned home with these!

Made. from. scratch!

No lie... they melt in your mouth. Crispy on the edges, soft on the inside... completely, utterly, delicious! (...and they were STILL WARM!!)

Thank you Natalie, Aaron and Noelle!! :) (fyi... I'm working on finagling the recipe...!)

Top image via Josh (busychild424) on Flickr - beautiful, isn't it?!
Bottom image, Natalie's Chocolate Chip Cookies on my counter!! :)

President Obama ...

2009-10-09T09:44:00.005-05:00

Although widely debated throughout the media ~ I must say that when I heard that President Obama had won the Nobel Peace Prize, my heart just swelled with happiness, inspiration and joy.

Huffington Post's coverage
New York Times coverage

Sessùn ...

2009-10-06T16:21:00.006-05:00

Oh my ... such lovely inspiration over at Sessùn. (and isn't the model gorgeous? I love her hair...)

all images: Sessùn

Good golly, it's Lonny ...

2009-10-05T16:48:00.007-05:00

Over the summer, I had gotten woefully behind on reading my "blogroll" favorites (...I guess three boys will do that to a gal) ... so I had not heard about the launch of Lonny magazine. I nearly hyperventilated when I stumbled across it last night. Seriously. It's gorgeous! Created by some the same folks who had helped bring us our dearly beloved Domino magazine - it's a lovely, beautiful online magazine that is full of inspiration. (Take THAT, Conde Nast!) The layout is very user friendly -- there is a "scrolling/preview" function at the bottom that lets you skip around easily. And each image is "clickable" to take you to the product/person's website. After feeling completely deprived for months after Domino was shuttered, I'm more than happy with this wonderful new alternative. I love it!
All images via lonnymag.com

XM 73 ... how I love thee...

2009-10-05T10:49:00.006-05:00

So this morning I had a bunch of mundane errands to run - you know, dry cleaning, groceries, miscellaneous little stops. It's a gray, drizzly, rainy day and I just didn't feel like running around in it. Anyway, I've been listening to my Nat King Cole and Dean Martin Christmas CD at home, in part because I love Christmas music (I know, it's a bit early) and I just plain love that era's music. So... I'm in the quiet car when I think - hey, XM - you got any of that Frank Sinatra type music? That's when I discovered XM 73 ... Frank's Place! I could have run errands all day listening to Beverly Clooney, Bobby Darin, Harry Connick Jr ... Nearly heaven, I tell you.

Image via New York Public Library's Digital Gallery

Weekend update ...

2009-10-04T15:19:00.004-05:00

No... not as in SNL Weekend Update. But here's a bit of what was added to the shop over the weekend.
top set: deadstock cotton bath towels, nostalgic vintage lamp, Vera linen napkins
bottom set: handmade granny square afghan, industrial gooseneck desk lamp, lot of kitchen towels/washcloths, faux leather burgundy clutch with chain strap

Weekly goodies ... the free Dover Sampler

2009-10-02T16:24:00.008-05:00

Halloween samples ...

a Vector image sample ...

and an Art Nouveau poster sample ...

This is one of my favorite emails in my Friday Inbox ... the weekly Dover sampler! It's like a grab bag of goodies ... they email you links to sample a variety of their products (historical images / children's puzzles / origami how-to / etc) some of the samples are so-so, but there are always a couple that are fab. u. lous! If you like something, be sure to save it to a disc or harddrive/etc, because the images are available for that week only. So... here's my tip of the day: if you'd like a free surprise every Friday, go sign up over at Dover Publications.

(P.S. I first heard about this a few years ago from the lovely Jessica at How About Orange. )

Unfussy and refined ...

2009-10-02T09:04:00.007-05:00

Loving this new line - Harvey Faircloth. The pieces are unfussy and somewhat relaxed, yet refined and incredibly classic at the same time. (how is that possible?) The website is fabulous, the images are playful and happy, and you must read their "About Harvey" page - the writing style is absolutely entertaining and engaging... actually makes me love the line even more!

(found via Joanna)

So stinkin' cute!

2009-10-01T11:51:00.003-05:00

This little guy is so adorable! Found via Kristen @ Pretty Little World.

(P.S. Image credit unknow. Kristen wasn't sure where she had found this little fella, so if you should happen to know, please feel free to pass it along.)

Shop additions...

2009-10-01T11:31:00.007-05:00

Just a few of the vintage pieces that were just added to the shop this morning ... more to come this afternoon. (btw, that three piece suit has a reversible waistcoat!! hot damn!)

So THIS is what Facebook is for...

2009-09-29T17:11:00.004-05:00

This is nothing short of hilarious. Created by Mike Booth, creator of Some Grey Bloke ... his website has an entire series of different animated cartoons that are just as entertaining.

(found via SwissMiss, who found it via Tim at One + Infinity)

The Promise of New York ... smart ... irreverant ... just how I like 'em

2009-09-24T10:15:00.003-05:00

This is a really great, grassroots film... "a film of the people, by the people, for the people". Irreverant. Smart. (doesn't get any better than that, eh?)

If you live near Newburg, New York - there will be a screening of the movie at the Downing Film Center on Oct 5th, with a Q&A session to follow with the film's director, Raul Barcelona.

My multi-talented cousin, Cassie (Cassandra Hohn), produced it. (...on a side note, the girl can sing like nobody's business! Multi-talented, she is!!)

From the mouths of babes ...

2009-09-11T18:25:00.008-05:00

I've been trying to post more regularly, but I wasn't sure if I wanted to post anything today. It just didn't seem right, although I didn't want to ignore the day either. After reading one of my favorite blogs today and leaving a comment on her post about today's anniversary, I decided I needed to post.

Earlier this week, on my birthday to be exact, my 3rd grader said "This Friday is the anniversary of the day the planes hit the Twin Towers. Did you know that's why they call it 9/11 - because it happened on September 11th?" It was such innocence. He was just a baby when it happened, and it hadn't occurred to me that I would need to "connect the dots", so to speak, for him.

As I was watching MSNBC this morning, they were replaying the coverage from 8 years ago ... the raw pain of watching the tragedy unfolding was just so heartbreaking, all over again.

UPDATE 9/12: A thoughtful post over here by one of my favorite bloggers, Ava of Serendipitous Freelance Writer. She also links over to a captivating post by someone who was in the 2nd Tower when the 1st Tower collapsed.

Weekend Warrior ...

2009-09-08T11:52:00.006-05:00

So this is part of what our family did this weekend ... watched the oldest son play high school football in the 19th annual President's Bowl. This is D as his name was read as part of the starting line up... pointing to the crowd before heading down the row/tunnel of his teammates. We are immensely proud of him and all of the hard work he has put in over the years.

My aunt had sent out the roundup-call via email -- so there were plenty of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends on hand to cheer him on. :) (I don't think any of them read this blog, but if they should happen to stumble upon this post, here's a big THANKS to all of you very special people!)

One of our dear friends, "Rem", who is nearly part of the family (thanks to my cousin Amy), sent a text prior to the game and asked that I forward it on to D. I swear, as goofy as this sounds, it nearly brought me to tears. (and I do not cry...) Rem is a soft spoken, bear of a man who played football on a collegiate level and ranks quite high on our son's scale of what a man should be. His opinions and advice are important to D, more so than anything I could ever say... and probably even his dad. Here's the text ... I think it's those last few lines that nearly got me:

"Please forward to D: D, play hard & fundamentally. Finish your blocks. Watch the ball all the way into your hands. Run your patterns perfectly. Fundamentals will help you win. I am very proud of you. I will be there tonight. Play hard every play."

Kitchen Towel love ... and a bit of profanity

2009-09-03T16:35:00.010-05:00

So I'm reading the "Orange You Lucky" blog today... she mentions there is a sale at BlueQ tied to her blog. A sale! I'm always up for a sale! So I click the link and I. am. in heaven ... there are all kinds of smart and smart-assed goodies ~ and so reasonably priced. (How come I had never heard of this shop before?) So here's a short list of my favorites:

Please Shut the Hell Up dish towel ... $9.99

Rise and Shine dish towel ... $9.99

I Adore You dish towel ... $9.99

And last, but not least ... Douche Bag chewing gum $1.25 ... peppermint flavor ... nice to meet you. So is it just me, or maybe it's a regional thing (or worse, I'm watching too much South Park) ... is the phrase "douche bag" enjoying a resurgence in popularity? (and just so you know... they also have packages in these "flavors" as well: Ass Kisser gum, Beyotch gum, Shut the Hell Up gum, Let's Pretend I Give A Shit gum, and F&ck It gum.)

And with that, have a lovely weekend folks!
(images: www.blueq.com )

Vintage vs Barneys & The Row ...

2009-09-01T09:41:00.007-05:00

Cashmere flannel Burford Shirt, made in USA ... $790 at Barneys.

Lightweight cotton blend plaid vintage shirt, made in USA ... $18.00 at the shop.

Similar looks... not so similar prices. (one for summer, one for winter...?)

First image via Barneys. Second image via me.

Community ... DVR worthy

2009-08-28T16:16:00.004-05:00

Okay... I loved Joel McHale on The Soup, and in various guest spots on shows like "Pushing Daisies", so I was intrigued when I heard he was in a new NBC show with Chevy Chase. After watching this preview, I think it's safe to say this will be a regularly recorded DVR show. It's that good.

(P.S. You have to watch the whole thing... the end is hilarious "Can you hear me? Am I deaf?!" ha ha!!)

Coming soon...

2009-08-28T07:16:00.002-05:00

These goodies will be arriving soon...

By the way, those handmade red moccasin boots (above, center) are eerily similar to these new Sigerson Morrison "Belle" boots.... right down to the way the "tongue" is attached inside. Not it's twin, but possibly a distant relative. Another example of Everything Old Is New Again.

Helmut Fritz ... ça m'énerve (LE CLIP OFFICIEL)

2009-08-27T08:54:00.009-05:00

So I wake up this morning to a message from one of my lovely Etsy buyers, who tells me that a jacket she purchased was used in this French music video. This is so thrilling for me in an odd way ... this little, ol' jacket from the midwest United States, found it's way to France to do something big! The music video is fantastic - gorgeous people, beautifully shot, and the song is fabulous. (I watched it while the kids were getting ready for school - and they loved it, too! Even though none of us know any french, we loved it just the same.)

Here's the jacket ... You'll see it at about 35 seconds into the video - embellished with some medals at the chest pocket.

(P.S. on a side note, but somewhat related... I just sold something to the propmaster for the Sex and the City II movie. I can't wait to see if it makes it to the big screen!!)

Shop additions ...

2009-08-26T12:57:00.003-05:00

These pieces were just added to the shop within the last 24 hours or so. Anything look good?

Extract ... the movie

2009-08-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

oh. my. gosh.

I cannot wait to see this movie. (Haven't we all worked with people like those ladies in the beginning?! Hilarious!)

The Three Amigos ... Aqua is the new Quatro

2009-08-13T12:52:00.004-05:00

Aren't these little guys adorable?
I overheard them trying to count to ten in Spanish. It went something like this... "uno... dos... tres... aqua... cinco..."

Polyvore ... my first time ever

2009-08-09T22:41:00.004-05:00

First Set Ever by goodgrace featuring American Eagle Outfitters

So what do you think? I may be addicted. This Polyvore thing is so easy to do ... and it's so much fun "window shopping".

Wary Meyers love...

2009-07-31T09:38:00.003-05:00

I've been enamoured with anything Wary Meyers for quite some time and I was so excited when I saw they (Linda and John) had a blog. Well... now they have a print shop open. I'm trying to decide which prints are my favorites. I love the whimsy of the animals ... Spyglass, Mole Going to Play Tennis, George ... hmm... do you have a favorite?

I'm also looking forward to their book being released in September.

(p.s. Check out the family crests and other illustrations here. sigh...)

Mad Men Yourself ... via AMC

2009-07-30T22:31:00.005-05:00

Check out this interactive ditty over on AMC ... After you've created yourself, you can download your "scene" as desktop wallpaper, or use your "face" as an avatar over on Twitter/Facebook/etc.

Mad Men's new season starts August 16th!

Inspiration ... Animal Font

2009-07-12T09:26:00.006-05:00

I'm not sure how I'd use these, but I think they are fabulous! (They'd be terrific to use as stencils for unique wall art, applique or kitschy printed tea towels.) And there are even more versions of them when you use the special fonts. The lower case characters are the "baby" version ... adorable! Go check them out here. (I especially love the zebra's.)

(Found via Abbey Goes Design Scouting. Font via Alan Carr at Dafont.com.)

Perfect for Father's Day

2009-06-17T10:21:00.003-05:00

I absolutely love this hanky... so perfect for Father's Day. Not sure how many men still use hankies, but it's such a lovely, unique and thoughtful little piece. Found via Etsy's front page "inspired by a handmade wedding"... created by Etsy seller EmbroiderybyLinda.

photo: EmbroiderybyLinda

Kindred ... "Wallpapered Together"

2009-06-17T07:16:00.009-05:00

Have you heard of this lovely collaboration between Holly of Decor8 and Heather (Ez) of Creature Comforts? They've created Kindred. It's their way of promoting and supporting independent artists ... with free downloadable note cards, postcards and desktop wallpapers. Their most recent update is the "Wallpapered Together" series, "Summertime theme: the five senses", with all of the featured artists using the current Pantone color forecast for Spring 2009. (They also have an archive of the previous season's Wallpapers!)

(image via Kindred)
(found via YellowGoat)

Outcasts United ... A Refugee Team, An American Town

2009-05-09T22:50:00.005-05:00

This book looks like a wonderful, inspiring story. I saw the author, Warren St.John, on MSNBC's Morning Joe last week. (According to Mike Barnacle and Joe Scarborough, this needs to be made into a movie!)

From the book's website: Outcasts United is the story of a refugee soccer team, a remarkable woman coach and a small southern town turned upside down by the process of refugee resettlement.

In the 1990s, that town, Clarkston, Georgia, became a resettlement center for refugees and a modern-day Ellis Island for scores of families from war zones in Liberia, Congo, Sudan, Iraq and Afghanistan. The town also became home to Luma Mufleh, an American-educated Jordanian woman who founded a youth soccer team to help keep Clarkston’s boys off the streets.

Theirs is a story about resilience in the face of extraordinary hardship, the power of one person to make a difference and the daunting challenge of creating community in a place where people seem to have so little in common.

Royals for the Rainforest...

2009-05-09T21:53:00.005-05:00

I think I first saw a clip of this over on MSNBC (surprise, surprise... I know...). It's a lovely, compelling video - and definitely worth a look.

There is an official website as well: The Prince's Rainforests Project.

On a lighter note...

2009-04-30T08:36:00.008-05:00

Loving Kim Kardashian's lighter locks. (found via TMZ.com - one of my guilty pleasures. Image credit: Getty.) I went darker the last time I had my hair done ... against my better judgement. I've read that the darker your hair is, that any flaws in your skin will be more noticeable. (translation: next time I will be framing my face with highlights...)

Have you seen Fergie's darker look? I'm not sure if I like this or not... The "before" is on the right. (It's a much softer look, don't you think?) (found via Glamour's Beauty Blog. Images: WireImage.) There's a survey being taken over on BellaSugar ... currently over 70% do not like the new look.

What do you think?

(By the way, this reminds me of a post by one of my favorite bloggers ... who is absolutely adorable with her dark locks - even first thing in the morn.)

Bravo, Senator Specter!

2009-04-28T11:59:00.003-05:00

So thrilled to hear Senator Arlen Specter has come back to the Democratic Party. I'm sure it was not an easy decision.

Where is the love...?

2009-04-15T18:15:00.009-05:00

There is an unscientific poll going on over at MSNBC.com - asking people to "Give President Obama a Grade". Apparently, a bunch of conservative bloggers have been encouraging their readers to vote and give a failing grade. For the record, I gave him an A.

On a side note, I recently found this variation of Rosie the Riveter on Etsy.

...via Metaphorchid.

I've also been coveting this simple necklace that says it all, also found on Etsy.

...via onelifejewelry.

Pole Dancing ... Grizzly Style

2009-03-12T18:08:00.005-05:00

Apparently this has been around for awhile, but I just saw it today and think it's a riot!! (I may have to get some old-school Kool & the Gang downloaded to my iTunes.)

Video via nativemustang on YouTube.

Etsy finds ... oh, the vintage love!

2009-03-06T12:13:00.008-06:00

Here's a little bit of Etsy love ~ vintage style... and almost all of them are under $25.

1) Adorable little family of brass penguins: $24, WeThinkWeCan . 2) retro modern Royal Blue Enamel Cuff: $8, ColorField Vintage . 3) I'm in love with this sun dress, the color - the print - the cumberbund band: $64, ColorField Vintage . 4) chic, embossed Croc Handbag: $24, Dewberry Vintage . 5) colorful, mod print apron: $14, OliveVintage.

All images via their respective shops.

Eco Barons ... looks like a good read.

2009-03-05T11:27:00.008-06:00

I saw an inteview on Morning Joe with the Eco Baron author, Edward Humes, earlier this week. I'm completely intrigued - not only with the subject matter, but with the beautiful cover image. The mended leaf. So tragic, but inspirational. It's never too late, right? If anyone has read the book, please let me know what you think of it. (Although, I think I'll be hitting the bookstore soon to pick up my own copy.)

By the way, Mr. Humes has received the Pulitzer Prize for his journalism and he's a writer-at-large for Los Angeles magazine. And he does have a blog as well...

Prime Minister Gordon Brown ... Wow!

2009-03-04T10:21:00.012-06:00

I'm currently watching MSNBC's coverage of Britain's Prime Minister Gordon Brown - he is a fantastic speaker. I liked Tony Blair immensely - now it appears I am also a fan of the honorable P.M. Brown. (I'd give you a link to his rousing, inspirational speech, but he's still delivering it...)

The Swear Jar... this is how it would work in my home...

2009-03-02T21:04:00.005-06:00

Swear Jar--Funniest Commercial Ever! - watch more funny videos

One of my "Facebook" friends posted this link ~ what a hoot!! (And as I posted earlier, you know there is a special place in my heart for bad language...)

Quail by Mail ... Fair Trade, Eco Friendly

2009-02-07T22:48:00.010-06:00

Top Row: Tulip Skirt, 3/4 Sleeve Shirt, Lucy Dress

Bottom Row: 1940s Shirt, Panel Skirt, Emily Dress

I am intrigued by this lovely clothing line from Britain, called Quail. Founded in late 2006 by husband and wife team Jason Clark and Shauna Chapman, they produce ethical, fair trade and eco friendly clothing for women and men. Their pieces are beautifully constructed, in gorgeous colors and prints - with amazingly reasonable prices and low, low shipping prices ... free shipping on orders over £49. (Current conversion is approximately 1 British pound = 1.48 U.S. dollars)

They even have some adorable, eco friendly plushies!!

By the way, Shauna has an absolutely delicious looking recipe for Lemon Poppyseed Cake on her blog. It looks sooo yummy... or as they say in Britain, scrummy!

all photos via: Quail by Mail website

Profane Hilarity ... P.S. Don't play this at work or in front of children

2009-02-06T19:51:00.005-06:00

If you ask anyone who knows me, they will tell you that I do, on occasion, use bad language. That said, I don't think I'm quite on the same level as these two guys.

(This is a hilarious YouTube mix by TheSexyPatriot, that aired on Countdown with Keith Olbermann this evening. You know me...I just had to post about it.)

Coming soon...

2009-02-04T22:35:00.008-06:00

A preview of some items that will be added to the shop in the next day or two...

Oh happy day...

2009-01-20T10:59:00.003-06:00

Happy America!!

Coming soon...

2009-01-15T15:43:00.005-06:00

A preview of some items that will be added to the shop in the next day or two...

Kate Spade and the best email campaigns ever

2009-01-13T23:46:00.012-06:00

I don't know about you, but my email inbox is completely out of hand. However, no matter how bad it gets, I will never unsubscribe from the Kate Spade emails. (I actually save them online in a special little "inspiration" folder.) They are absolutely delicious in so many ways. Cheeky, fun, cheerful, nostalgic and glamourous! And if you've never peeked behind the curtain, you really must go take a look. Loads of inspiration, free desktop wallpapers, information on their charity events and projects, NY in Spades shows you around the city, and "the things we love" section has loads of links to other fabulous websites.

Speaking of glamour, as in old-school, I really liked this post.

(photos: via Kate Spade)

White House Black Market & Clothes Off Our Backs Charity Auction

2009-01-08T12:49:00.005-06:00

The White House Inaugural Collection ... stunning!! Created by White House Black Market and inspired by soon-to-be First Lady, Michelle Obama. I love the names given to each of the designs: The Jackie, The Eleanor, The Ladybird, The Abigail. Very regal, indeed.

You can bid on them at Clothes Off Our Back Charity Auctions. Auction proceeds benefit Clothes Off Our Back’s charities including Feeding America (formerly named America’s Second Harvest), The Art of Elysium, Hope North and H.E.L.P. Malawi. What a great way to support some really worthy causes ... and in the process, possibly score a gorgeous couture gown ~ including the designer's original sketch!

Orange Crush

2009-01-07T15:58:00.007-06:00

I just found this unique site called Hel Looks that reminds me of the Sartorialist, but a little edgier and only from the streets of Helsinki, Finland. The website reads: HEL LOOKS is a hobby project of Liisa Jokinen and Sampo Karjalainen. The project is a tribute to Fruits and Street magazines, the pioneers of street fashion photography. I'm a new fan.

The adorable gal on the left is Riika and that FABulous coat is vintage Courreges. I think I love everything about her outfit. Of course, the color is a standout, but the timeless cut and details make me swoon. I like the scarf (I love scarves!), and the hat is so chic - very Julie Christie in Dr. Zhivago. I love hats, but I just can't "do" them because of my abnormally large noggin. (Photo by Pieni Roobertinkatu, Dec 7 2008)

And then there is the darling Marja on the right. A classic, yet chic outfit ~ I really like the cream, navy and black color combination. And those mittens are DARling! They remind me of the pretty nordic pieces at Thistle and Broom. (Photo by Iso Roobertinkatu, Jan 2 2009)

Every Girls Crazy 'bout a Sharp Dressed Man

2008-12-22T22:54:00.003-06:00

Dapper, don't you think?

Shameless self promotion: find some similar looks in the shop right now....

On my Christmas wish list...

2008-12-06T19:01:00.007-06:00

I can't remember how I found this, but I really like it.

photo via MoveOn and Obama artwork created by Shepard Fairey

Do you twitter?

2008-11-11T19:28:00.004-06:00

I just signed up for Twitter. I did not understand what the hell it even was until I signed up.... I've decided it's kind of like instant messaging combined with blogging... sort of.

Keith Olbermann on California's Proposition 8

2008-11-11T18:43:00.004-06:00

This is so beautifully said.

Thank you, Keith Olbermann (and MSNBC), for stating this so eloquently and thoughtfully.

No bonus ... husband's job as it relates to Clark Griswold

2008-10-28T10:40:00.004-05:00

I know... with the economy as it is, we shouldn't have been surprised. But we were. Not even a "Jelly of the Month" club membership. What the... ?!

At least this made me laugh. (If you are at work, or have small children around - you may want to lower the volume on the last 40 seconds or so...)

technorati claim...

2008-10-09T19:37:00.002-05:00

Technorati Profile

geezzz....

how does your garden grow...

2008-06-20T23:52:00.005-05:00

I spent much of today pulling thistles from my landscaping. Here are a few of the pretties that were in bloom while I toiled away. My peonies are in full bloom, some fading away (top left) and some still in the budding stage (bottom right - can you see that the petals almost look like hands wrapping around it?). The asiatic lilies are as vibrant as ever (top right) and the good Lord help me - I can't remember the name of the little flowers in the lower left corner. You'll have to pardon the pictures - the wind never stops in the midwest, and my digital camera is about 8 yrs old... "ancient" in the digital world.

We are trying to be more environmentally friendly with our gardening and lawn care. Here are a couple of products we've been using.

The Liquid Fence is absolutely amazing. We have been using it for about 2 years now, and it really does keep the rabbits away. It smells terrible for about 1/2 a day, but it's environmentally friendly, pet safe and bio-degradable. A word to the wise, don't spray it on a windy day unless you are prepared to smell like rotten, garlicky eggs. Also - you may want to keep your windows shut on the day of use.

Speedy-Gro is also made by The Liquid Fence Company and it's made of the world's fastest growing, fresh organic kelp seaweed, Ecklonia maxima. It's all natural, environmentally safe, bio-degradable and can be used on indoor and outdoor plants. We've just started using this product, so I can't really vouch for it yet. You can find both products right here.

And speaking of gardening, if I could do it all over - I would have made a concerted effort to include more native plants. The National Park Service redirects native plant inquiries to The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at The University of Texas at Austin website. If you are into plants, this is a fun site to wander around in. They even have a recommended species feature that allows you to search by state.

A.P.C. is having a sale...

2008-06-19T15:16:00.004-05:00

Sometimes I love my inbox. Today I received an email notification from A.P.C. about their current sale. Oh my... so many pretty little dresses for half off. Not to mention the cute trenches, trousers, shorts and shoes. Lovely.

Currently coveting...

2008-06-17T22:15:00.006-05:00

transitive verb
1 : to wish for earnestly

I love this dress. Strapless, pleated Chloe dress. Found on Net-A-Porter. Was $5,425. Now... $2712.50. Beautiful. Although, waaaaay out of my league.

Now. This probably won't happen, but I have a hankerin' to bust out some gorgeous vintage chiffon fabric I have in storage - and try crafting something along these lines.

Unless I find $2700 in the sofa cushions.

Smokin' hot home...

2008-06-17T21:54:00.007-05:00

I ran across this on CasaSugar awhile ago and I just can't get over how gorgeous it is. Apparently this was the former home of Gwen Stefani (and most recently owned by That '70s Show creator Mark Brazill). The entire house is just bursting with the most beautiful, old-school, Mediterranean details. I love the kitchen!

It was reportedly listed for $4.9 million. I wonder if it's still available? (...in my dreams...)

oh my... getting carried away

2008-06-17T21:19:00.007-05:00

I loved the SATC movie.
I loved the yummy vintage inspired dresses.
So... when I found this gorgeous little number I nearly fell over while hyperventilating. I put it in the shop, and it sold within 24 hours. woohoo! It makes me happy when other folks appreciate the beauty of a vintage piece.

Flipping out...

2008-06-15T01:13:00.016-05:00

I'm absolutely giddy to see that Jeff and crew are returning to Bravo! (I still crack up over his cat, Monkey, and the acupuncture session...) The new season starts Tuesday, June 17.

And isn't this kitchen gorgeous (from season 1)? (Picture found via Elements of Style). I love, love, love the drum-shade light fixtures above the island. (btw, this is the same island that Monkey was trapped in, seemingly quite happily, while everyone else was panicking - thinking he was lost.)