WILD CARD

November 2011

2012-01-16T21:20:00.002-05:00

In November, the 304 Greene Family went on a very, very long hike to the summit of unknown mountain where four heavy metal teenagers found themselves incredibly lost, out of water, and surely on acid. Their nervous hysteria punctured our (my) confident sense of direction. As the sun started to fall, Andy began to lead the pack to basecamp while I started to prepare myself for 27 Hours: Part II. But alas, my woodsy hero led me and the drugged children back to safety, and I got to keep both my arms.

And then there was Thanksgiving. I was thankful for my fifth and final year as "Andy's girlfriend" during one of my favorite holidays. But most memorable was our yearly reunion with The Budds at "The Last Chance Saloon." As usual, neon-colored shots were had and someone threw up the next day (go Harrison!). As the pattern goes, it's Liz's turn to throw up this year, but I'm sure I'll beat her to it. I \look forward to Liz holding my hair and Andy sweetly lamenting, "That's my wife," for the first time.

October 2011

2012-01-16T20:39:00.000-05:00

In October 2011, I dressed up as a hot dog and attended a hot dog party. One too many whiskey ice tea's in ketchup bottles were had. And that night we went home in a snow storm. The snow was the scariest part.

Hello, and Happy New Year!

2012-01-16T20:29:00.001-05:00

Dear millions of readers out there who read my blog religiously, you can put your worries to rest - I am alive and back to blogging! I hope my 4-month stint did not cause you to trash this blog's bookmark during your new year cleansing. To win you back, I shall post the best of my 6 rolls of film that document my adventures from Oct - Dec 2011. Because this is how I win people back- I talk incessantly about myself.

found...

2011-10-09T11:44:00.003-04:00

...the missing 2011 summer roll.

Maryland Crabs Weekend

2011-08-10T15:13:00.000-04:00

All Andy really wanted for his 31st birthday was crabs, woods, and pies. So we loaded our royal chariot with 75lbs of laundry, 50lbs of dog and drove south to good ol Columbia, Maryland.

I always have a great time lounging around the house Andy grew up in. The fridge is always stocked, the couches are soft, and the shelves are full of knick knacks and old photos. It's a home filled with good energy and a nice little haven from city life. I think Mia would agree. With so many sleeping options, a doggy door and hundreds of trees filled with squirrels - how could she not love it. This was her second time in Maryland, and we decided to walk her off the leash in the woods. She did great at always keeping close until she heard rumblings in the woods (rabbits) and then took off for about 20 minutes until she returned to us soaked and smiling.

It was a lovely weekend for all, and we can't wait to do it all over again this Thanksgiving.

a sneak peek

2011-08-04T11:16:00.000-04:00

This is the best idea ever. What a playful way to mesh the traditional and modern ideologies on whether the groom and bride should see each before or during the ceremony for the first time. I love surprises, and I love to surprise others, so I have always sided with the traditional first reveal during the ceremony. The anticipation is like fireworks in your stomach, which I know sounds utterly painful for some, but I'm weird enough to want it! This mini peek, however, is a great idea. It makes for some really fun photos to look at later...

thanks A Cup of Jo

feel good stills

2011-07-20T13:19:00.000-04:00

I love Livia's Italian 2011 album. There is something very familiar and comforting about these pictures that make me feel good. Some of the images remind me of my mom who loves all saintly things. Before I went away to college she gave me a little card with an image of Saint Teresa on it claiming that it would protect me. I remember shrugging my shoulders and rolling my eyes, but the truth is, it's never left my wallet since that day. Unconscious superstition I suppose. And then there are some pictures that remind me of my short-lived life in Italy living off of beauty, bread, and reckless traveling. Great times, indeed.

California, you smell so good.

2011-07-14T10:05:00.000-04:00

Starting a few miles south of SF and right before LA, this entire coastal stretch is a site to be seen and has a smell to be smelled. It's a living postcard really, and sadly, my little Leica could never do it justice, but we tried and here are the results. Props to Louise (aka Emily) for driving the 'stang. Good times indeed.

Madonna Inn

2011-07-13T15:08:00.000-04:00

As part of our Road trip from San Francisco to San Diego, we made a breakfast stop at The Madonna Inn. We were so excited partly because we were craving grease to cure the hangover from a night at "Harry's" in Pismo Beach, but mostly because...well...look at these pictures - The Madonna Inn is just amazing. The overwhelmingly pink decor, strange fairy-like statues, oversized hanging roses and crazy gold accents was the perfect way to start our day 2 of road trippin down Highway 1.

a quirky site

2011-07-11T21:55:00.000-04:00

A La Robe.

animated gif(t)s

2011-07-11T15:12:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the Dragon for these. I stare and laugh at them every day.

summer crops

2011-07-07T13:34:00.000-04:00

Can someone please just buy all these for me? Now? They're so much fun!

tiny fashions

2011-07-06T11:25:00.000-04:00

Audrey Kate Knott

Maxwell & Wyatt Russell

Sweet babies wearing fashionable onesies made by yours truly. Keep the babies coming, friends.

premarital parties are fun

2011-06-18T17:59:00.000-04:00

memorial day weekend. montauk. ny.

a 2012 party

2011-06-16T11:35:00.000-04:00

There's a 2012 party that needs to be planned, but the daunting task of planning such a party hasn't really registered yet. So far, the bulk of my research can be found under a little folder in my browser called "Wedding Likes." When I find something I like, I hit that "+" button and it gets filed instantaneously. It's effectively the same idea behind the "add to your cart" button during online shopping sprees - it feels like you have accomplished/purchased something, except you haven't. I know it's not productive, but I'm having way too much fun looking at images that inspire our vision of what we want that day to be like - pretty dresses, champagne and cigars perhaps.

Sew Project No.5 - Babies Wyatt + Max

2011-06-16T10:47:00.000-04:00

My friend is having twin boys this summer and their names will be Max & Wyatt. I just couldn't resist whipping up some first initial lightning bolt onesies. Congrats to the Russell family!

On a separate note, I am finally working on my first adult sewing project. Just picked up some fabric over at The City Quilter that I'm pretty pumped about...

2011-06-14T10:59:00.002-04:00

At the beginning of every summer, I get an overwhelming urge to read a Hemingway book, again. Maybe it’s the heat that reminds me of the ocean that in turn reminds me of Hemingway - not sure. But beyond his novels, I find his personal life - multiple marriages, grand travels, coverage of the Spanish Civil War and his suicide in the summer of 1961 - intriguing. Even his portraits are worth staring at for a few minutes. He has the wrinkles of a man who scoured the earth in search of everything and nothing at the same time.

2011 Shades

2011-06-10T12:36:00.000-04:00

I've had a crush on Karen Walker sunglasses for a few years now. I love all the colors and shapes of her designs and the fact that they have arrows on them - gah, it just doesn't get any better for me. So after many summers spent ogling her eyewear and resorting to cheap $10 options, I decided to give in and treat myself to a nice summer accessory in the form of KW's Number one Brown Crystal Fluro Orange shades. So far, no regrets.

Sew Project No.4 - Baby Vera

2011-06-09T11:56:00.000-04:00

Kristina Rolander is having a baby girl! Before she knew it was a girl, she called her the baby, "Baby Rainbow". The moment I heard it, I knew there was a project on the horizon. This is my latest handmade treasure for Miss Vera. It was my first time embroidering which was a nice break from the sewing machine, so I have a feeling there will be more embroidering projects ahead. Thanks for the shout out, Kri! So happy you love it.

Memorial Day Weekend Polaroids

2011-06-05T09:25:00.000-04:00

Polaroids by Emily Ullrich

Memorial Day weekend was spent with the Liz Lusby Ladies Crew in one of my most favorite New York spots - Montauk. 10 girls, 1 big house filled with 40 bottles of booze and a cold, but surfer-filled beach only steps away. Technically it was a bachelorette party, but I'm pretty sure we looked like a bachelor party and after the amount of drinking, grilling and smoking that was had, I'm pretty sure we all grew mustaches by the end. So worth it. For more of Emily's Montauk polaroid action click here. My version of the story to come.

T-minus 27 days until the Buddy Lusby wedding.

ashes

2011-06-02T17:05:00.000-04:00

Ashley

Melissa

I have two favorite Lonsdales in my life. The first I ever met, Melissa, came into my world in college where we lived together for years. She always encouraged my hyperactive imagination and was never afraid to come along on my imaginary adventures. We graduated kicking and screaming (well, she did) because we knew we were about to take different roads that led to different cities. I've missed her ever since, but we've managed to stay as silly and as close as distance will allow. She's the best, and I love her.

I thought my love affair with the Lonsdales was over until I met another - Ashley. A position opened up at my job, and she was the first person I thought of - I needed another Lonsdale in my life! She has become the best sidekick ever imaginable. She always, always keeps up when my imagination takes things 1 (or 5) steps too far and she's always up for a random adventure. Simply put, we're on a special level not too many people understand and that's what makes it all the more amazing. This is why I'm so sad yet so incredibly happy to see her move on to pursue her dreams of becoming a kick-ass chef. She's going to make it, and she's going to make it big.

I'm going to miss you ashes. tss tss (inside joke).

crafting with plants

2011-05-26T16:11:00.000-04:00

Inspired by this article and these photos, I finally decided to build a terrarium which was on my 2011 To do list. And I'm proud to announce that it survived my manhandling during the building process and is happily thriving in our little dungeon. I found the crafting process to be pretty fun and not too stressful. You put rocks, charcoal, soil, sand (for aesthetics), and then you just plop in these small little ferns and patches of moss. I think the stressful part is dealing with miniature items all around. But as I've recently discovered, I'm quite good with small things (see all sewing projects) thanks to my oddly small hands. I'm hoping to build more terrariums this summer using enclosed round glass vases to hang in my bedroom windows. For those interested in building your own, I used Sprout's how-to video found on Design Sponge.

Chie Mihara

2011-05-24T23:15:00.000-04:00

Chie Mihara is one of my favorite shoe designers. It's one of the designers that made me realize every day, practical and comfortable shoes can actually be stylish and cute! Oh, the thought! It will, however, and unfortunately, cost you a pretty penny for these puppies, but shoes are the one fashion items I will happily indulge in. If you ever want to see a scary, cranky version of me, put me in uncomfortable shoes. I will eat you and everyone else alive. Check out her shoes here. I just love the vintage influence in all of them. She also has a very small and unique bridal shoe section. I like this little scalloped number and this fun untraditional design (if only I were cool enough to pull it off).

londres

2011-05-24T22:37:00.000-04:00

Pretty things everywhere.

Via thelifestyledblog

we're officially more than just roommates

2011-05-20T23:26:00.000-04:00

On May 8, 2011 Andy flew back from Paris with an 1800s handcut diamond in tow. Later that night at the top of Ft. Greene park - a favorite spot of his - he admitted to having brought back a present for me. That present came with a question, and I said yes (3 times). We came home that night and took this polaroid picture of a freshly enagaged us. We told no one until the next day.

Mia-tropolis

2011-05-20T22:56:00.000-04:00

It's been 6 weeks since we first took this redbone coonhound home, and boy did we get lucky. For being a 3-year-old hunting dog growing up in the "pound system" all her life, she couldn't be more amazing. Mia will happily sleep for 9 hours while we're at work. Sometimes we come home and find her toys sprawled around the living room and kitchen. I always joke that she spends her day having tea parties with her stuffed animals. She's independent and easily amused in that way. She's not a "kisser" nor is she a cuddler, but from time to time she'll press her nose up against you to let you know she's there. When you talk to her, she looks straight at you and sometimes that turns into an eye-staring contest she always seems to win. She's a delicate eater and is careful to avoid puddles on walks. And she's an expert at finding missing chicken bones in our neighborhood. She goes bonkers for squeaky toys and loves children because they are squeaky too (she always pulls me towards the playground). She sighs A LOT and sometimes walks like Charlie Chaplin. Oh, and I've only heard her fart twice. What more can I ask for really?

abuelitas modernas

2011-05-07T11:12:00.000-04:00

Translation: Modern Grannies. I've discovered some pretty eccentric fabric/crafting shops in south brooklyn and after going to a bunch of high-end fabric shops in the city, I've realized how much more awesome my ghetto favorites are. The thing about these crazy shops in brooklyn is that most of the merchandise hasn't even been accounted for. Do you really think they have Spring sales to get rid of the old stuff and make room for the new? Nope, and partially because EVERYDAY is a sale! And they just pile new stuff on top of the old stuff. This piling system is what makes them so great because underneath every layer there is great potential for incredible finds. Most of the time I become overwhelmed and quickly run over to where the Jamaican grannies are sifting through organized fabric. And there I am, among the grandmothers of Brooklyn trying to figure out if I should really buy this metallic green fabric. As I consult with these 70-year-old seamstresses, they are quick to tell me how this metallic green fabric would make the perfect floor-length skirt and matching headband. Are you digging it? Anyway, I don't know where I'm going with this, but I guess I just wanted to say that it's ok for twenty-and-thiry-something-year-olds to love lace! and doilies! and metallic green fabric(?)!! Consider yourself a modern granny if you do.

winter sea

2011-05-06T14:55:00.000-04:00

Centre Island Beach, New York.

Sew Project No.3 - Baby Knott

2011-05-01T16:20:00.000-04:00

You know what else I missed this weekend? My friend's baby shower. I would have killed 5 people to attend the special gathering - a gathering for which I am certain delicious snacks and beverages were provided for. Not that I'm in it for the food or anything, but my friend's know how to cook and bake. More importantly though, it was a party for Mama Knott and WIP baby Knott! I had grand sewing plans for baby knott, but they have been postponed until my career loosens the choke chain a bit (soon, very soon!). In any case, I woke up on Saturday morning and decided to whip up a little sewing present action before heading off to work, and here are the results. Did you notice the off-centered cupcake and efforts to correct it by having a tiny heart balance it all? It was all planned, I swear.

And then I realized I had no wrapping paper, and a gift with no wrapping paper is NOT a gift! Do not let anyone fool you. So, I sewed a little pouch with a flappy thing to insert this fine onesie along with a few other goodies. Ta-da! Well, it's a start. I have more pink and purple fabric than I know what to do with, so watch out baby knott.

Battle in the Heavens - Nicholas Roerich, 1912

2011-05-01T14:35:00.001-04:00

Fuck yeah Art History

break

2011-04-30T14:29:00.001-04:00

And here I am, riding a GIANT wave. I made sure to minimize the quality of this image so as not to reveal the terrified expression that is actually on my face. Don't I look cool? (Don't look too hard).

I miss surfing. And it is days like today when I find myself cooped up in a stale office wasting a beautiful Saturday away that REALLY makes me miss surfing. Watching "Riding Giants" last night certainly did not help although that movie really scared the crap out of me.

So as I wait for client feedback (which will undoubtedly change the whole course of my weekend from bad to bad-er), allow me to rant on about my first time surfing. For starters, surfing IS hard. In general, really good athletes make sports look easy but the world of surfing is far more deceiving, and I attribute this to the fact that you don't ever see them sweat. Plus no helmets, shinguards, or shoes are involved...you can actually do it naked. Party!!

The first surf class was at 6:30am, and my first challenge was to physically learn how to carry a board about 11ft long. I was instantly discouraged until I quickly realized that you can drag it and still look cool! Then we were taught how to paddle and "pop up". First of all, I'm an excellent on shore paddler - my form is perfection as my instructor would tell me. Secondly, "popping up" is not for girls with hips, latin thighs, and breasts. Sorry "Flash" (my instructor's name, indeed) - but I can't whip this bodacious body around that fast. So I mastered the 2-step popup which looks like you're climbing a ladder but is still totally acceptable (and cool!). On shore, I kicked ass. In the water, not so much. My first lesson was garbage so I decided to go back 2 more times (for several hours at a time) to practice. I was up on my board cruising the bubbly white water by 2pm on my first day. ha-ya!

The next day, I couldn't get out of bed (and I really needed to pee badly). I was paralyzed from being so sore, and I'm pretty sure I gained about 10 lbs of swollen skin. I was also covered in a rash (from the surfboard lets be clear). Sigh, I was one big ol hot mess and had 6 more days to go. I didn't think I would make it, but I at least I made it to the bathroom just in time, which was a good sign.

It did get easier as the days went by, and eventually I started paddling out past the waves to where the big boys floated. This turned out to be my favorite part. Getting past the waves turned out to be the most physically challenging aspect of surfing, but once you were past the break there was nothing but peace. I was an excellent surfer so long as I was sitting past the break. But then came your turn to catch a wave and my awesome instructor Flash (the blonde one in the picture) always helped me pick out a "beautiful" one. When it was my turn to paddle he would say (in Spanish) "put those green eyes on that wave and paddle NOW!!!!!!!" His yelling scared the shit out of me, so I paddled really fast to get away from him. It worked, and the feeling of riding on top of a wave is the purest adrenaline I have ever experienced. Now I understand.

There were other great things about our trip to Tamarindo including a trip to the local Rodeo (post to come), the best hot dog I've ever had, beach pigs, awesome Canadians, the visible trafficking of drugs and prostitution, $2 beers, rice and beans, sharks, reggaeton and being with my roommate. But the best part was catching that wave all the way until the end.

hello, I'm here

2011-04-14T23:27:00.000-04:00

Apologies for the inconsistent momentum in posting pictures from Costa Rica. The moment my plane hit the cold JFK runway, I lost control of the days that laid ahead. I have a new 4-legged sweetheart I now live with and we're both still getting to know each other and our very busy schedules. Those extra hours I use to spend in front of a screen are now spent on long walks. The dust will settle soon enough and my favorite hobbies will resume regularly. These are some quick snippets of Tamarindo.

SJO > JFK

2011-04-06T16:54:00.000-04:00

7 days, 7 nights, a 4-hour drive, and a 5-hour flight later we're back in New York City. I have a feeling you didn't miss me at all. That's ok. The feeling's mutual. It was time to get away and I can't begin to describe how far away I felt. This seemingly last-minute trip was different than all my previous traveling adventures. First, none of it was planned except for booking a roundtrip ticket and booking a room for a week in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. Packing was just as frivolous. The hardest part was deciding how much film and bathing suits to bring. Tough...

Secondly, we stayed put in Tamarindo for the entire length of our vacation, not ever venturing beyond our sandy "camp" and warm surf outside our bedroom window. And if you know me well, I'm a speedy-gonzalez-type-of-traveler. I want to go everywhere and see everything. But not this time. My schedule consisted of 7 straight days of surfing, napping, eating, reading, and a little drinking. It kind of felt like I was in rehab but...funner? The point is, I learned to surf and I met some pretty cool characters along the way. I couldn't have planned it better myself had I actually planned it.

More stories and pictures to come.

Sew Project No.2 - Happy 1st Birthday!

2011-03-25T11:21:00.000-04:00

Baby Will is having his first birthday this Saturday. And for all those who have watched him grow from a little peanut to a mini viking, it's really hard to believe. I'm sure his parents feels the same x 1 million. So on his very special day that he'll never remember, I decided to dedicate sewing project number no.2 to Will. After noticing that he was wearing bibs under his little cardigan, I thought to myself - wouldn't it be funny if the bibs were designed to look like actual outfits? And so the seed was planted. Will's new "bizness man" and "walker texas will" bibs are the fruits of that labor. Happy birthday, Will!

toy stories

2011-03-23T17:28:00.000-04:00

Love these "Toy Stories" series by Aled Lewis. Reminds me of my post on Aaron Feaver's 'Tiny Animals" portfolio and a last minute iphone photo sesh I had many months ago. I wouldn't mind spending my days photographing toys and coming up with imaginary stories. Maybe one day.

telenovelas

2011-03-22T16:04:00.000-04:00

This is the kind of programming I grew up on. What's better than bad acting? bad passionate acting.

I heart dinos.

2011-03-22T11:26:00.001-04:00

I pass this dinosaur every time I'm on my way back from a road trip of sorts, and I've always meant to take a picture of it but am never camera ready as we zoom by it. I just love dinosaurs, especially the Brachiosaurus' - the friendliest vegetarian giants that once lived.

Found here

Spring News.

2011-03-21T17:46:00.000-04:00

304 Greene is getting a new roommate. Usually I like to meet potential new roommates before giving them the greenlight, but this time was very different. After numerous visits to several different pounds in New York (ASPCA, ACC, North Shore, Barc, Animal Haven), all of which I highly recommend, we started to get pretty tired. For me, it was an emotional roller-coaster every time because honestly, I could have taken any and all of the dogs I met home with me. I lost count of all the instances when I'd pass by a caged dog and he would jump right into their "a-dance-and-a-trick" number. I mean, really? So after every visit, it just got harder and harder to choose "the one." So after searching in the real world, we decided to turn to the web. And then one night I stumbled upon a funny looking breed called Coonhounds, and THEN we stumbled on this coonhound rescue site, and finally that's how we found a pretty coonie named "mia" - at the very bottom of a long list of Adult Females without a home. The moment I saw her I yelled at Andy "this is it!" And that was the end.

That heart-shaped patch on her chest and her manly 5 o'clock shadow did us in. She is currently up in New Hampshire packing her bags and ready for her road trip to Brooklyn on April 9th. Because of time and distance, we weren't able to meet her prior to the adoption but after an impressive report card from her foster mom, we decided to take a leap of faith and hope for the best.

doggy jiggle

2011-03-17T14:54:00.000-04:00

Need more? Go here.

first edition of Sketchy Sketches

2011-03-11T17:59:00.000-05:00

Things were a little slow on this fine, dry Friday. So, my compadre at work, Ashley, and I decided to take a break and play a little game I shall call "Sketchy Sketches." This game is great because there are no rules and the crazier your imagination gets, the better. These were a few sketches of each other. The more elaborate of them "Papa Ernesto" and "Victoria on Acid" were collaborative efforts. She starts, then I take over and back and forth we go. We had such a swell time doing this, we've decided to implement "Sketchy Sketch Night" this Spring 2011 in my backyard. Finger foods, champagne (or beer or juice) will be served. So get your pencils ready, people. April is going to be GREAT.

Beware the Ides of March!

2011-03-10T11:11:00.000-05:00

March hasn't been very much fun at all. Time and frustrations are dragging and by the time I reach home after a less than desirable commute with less than desirable commuters, I just want to plunge into my dreams in search of a little relief. But these days, not even my dreams are giving me a break. But then I remember that March is just a bad month in what usually is a long winter. It's the homestretch before Spring, making NY a feisty beast. Even Julius Caesar was warned to "beware the Ides of March."

23

2011-03-03T10:39:00.002-05:00

Images from Shakas and Singlefins

Twenty three more days until I can strip my clothes off and jump into the warm waters of Costa Rica for seven days of surf. Just got my health report back from the doctors and guess what - I'm abnormally deficient in Vitamin D = Sun. Well, that explains my consistent battle with headaches and spurts of illnesses this entire Winter. I won't fret but I am seriously looking forward to my vacation. Until then, I'll be taking this pretty little golden pill called 2,000mg of Vitamin D.

pretty little lace

2011-03-02T12:29:00.000-05:00

I'd like to wear more of it this year.

a happy merging

2011-03-01T13:59:00.000-05:00

Exactly one year ago today, we decided it was time to....merge. So on a cold snowy day, I moved from Greenpoint to Greene Avenue with a whole lot of clothes, little to no furniture, and a heart full of hope. Not sure if it counts as luck or what, but moving in has been pretty effortless. Usually it's good, sometimes it's bad but mostly it's fun. So here's to keeping the good times rolling! Now lets eat cake.

oh la la

2011-02-27T21:04:00.001-05:00

Dear Bittersweets NY, do we know each other? We must, because how could you possibly know that lilies, hearts and arrows have been on my mind recently? Lets be friends.

bombastic

2011-02-25T15:02:00.000-05:00

It's fantastic.

you were fun while you lasted..

2011-02-24T12:22:00.002-05:00

...but it lasted for far too long, and I'm ready to move on.

wayne pate

2011-02-24T12:10:00.000-05:00

The side of me that likes simple shape-driven design really enjoys his work.

New York Vintage

2011-02-22T17:54:00.000-05:00

Did a little exploration in the neighborhood for lunch today. This time, I took a stroll north and made a left to find an unexpected little surprise called New York Vintage. At first, I was lured in by their storefront of mermaids wearing golden everything. I.had.to.go.in! Chanel, Versace, Gucci, etc vintage fashion. From hats, to gowns, to a vintage motorcycle tucked away in the back near the dressing room. I'll never be able to afford any of what they sell, but I can, however, peruse all I want during lunch time.

Project Sew No. 1 - pillows

2011-02-22T14:06:00.000-05:00

Success. I finally finished my first (machine) sewing project ever. Not bad, right? Pictures don't do the colors justice but I went with the bold coral and mint green stitches. Although the process of making pillows is pretty easy, you can certainly pick out my newbie mistakes. Ah well, mistakes are like scars - they only add character.

fog

2011-02-19T18:56:00.005-05:00

Brooklyn, NY

PPP 2011

2011-02-17T16:15:00.000-05:00

by Emily Ullrich

On 02-05-11, the ladies gathered for our annual PPP (please, please, please) Ceremony. Last year we drove out to Coney Island and burned our 2010 wishes into the great universe. This year, due to weather conditions we drove 6 blocks to the Grand/Kent park in Williamsburg, right on the East River. Certainly not as adventurous, but nevertheless, a powerful and genuine experience. For those not familiar with the PPP ceremony, it all started a few years ago when a group of ladies decided that if you really want something in life, the first step is to announce it to the universe and the rest will fall into place. Trust me, it works.

Vday Lasagna

2011-02-16T13:52:00.000-05:00

Four years ago, Andy and I decided that Valentine's day made us want to gag. BUT, we still look forward to celebrating it with our Lasagna tradition. We basically make a lasagna in the shape of a heart and stare into each other's eyes for 15 minutes. Did that make you throw up? Good. But seriously, after 4 years of lasagna trials, we have finally reached the world's most perfect recipe for a healthy, hearty lasagna that will feed you and your family of 6. And now I must share it with the world because I'm selfless like that.

INGREDIENTS

A box of oven ready lasagna noodles
2 24 oz Jars of Prego Sauce (i get the one with sausage in it, but any prego flavor is going to be great)
1 lb Fresh Mozzarella
16 oz Parmesan Cheese
14 oz Ricotta Cheese (no skim, lets keep it real. And if you can get fresh ricotta cheese, it will rock your world)
3/4 C chopped basil
1 Egg lightly beaten
4 C chopped Shitake Mushroom and Button mushroom mix
1 yellow squash (small/medium size)
1 green zucchini (small/medium size)
4-5 C chopped Kale
0.75 lb of awesome sausage (whatever you want, we used spicy paprika sausage)
Pepper
Salt
Red Paper Flakes
And whatever other spice staples you like to use

INSTRUCTIONS

Heat oven to 375 degrees.
Mix all the ricotta cheese, 1 egg, 1C parmesan cheese, basil, salt and pepper. Set aside.
If using sausage, brown the sausage in a pot. After it's ready add the 2 jars of prego sauce and cook over medium heat. About 10-15 minutes. If you're not using sausage, just heat up the sauce in a pot and add any other spices you want. You can also make your own sauce obviously, but for the sake of time, I use Prego. It tastes great and it's fast.
In a large sauce pan heat up some olive oil and sate the chopped mushrooms, zucchini and squash. About 10 minutes.
In a small pot, bring 3/4 C of water to a boil, add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes, then throw in the kale. Cook in a boil for about 10 minutes. Use a colander to remove all water. Set aside.
Now you're ready to craft your layers. In a casserole dish add 1/4 C of sauce as your foundation. Then place 3 of the lasagna noodles evenly across. Add a dollop of the ricotta cheese between each noodle gap and spread as best as possible. Add a layer of the mushroom/zucchini mix, then add a layer of kale, then mozzarella and finally a healthy layer of the sauce. Repeat the process 2 more times. For your final layer add the remaining sauce, ricotta and top it off with 1 healthy cup of parmesan.
Spray pam or rub butter on aluminium foil and cover your lasagna creation. Cook for 10 minutes. Remove foil and cook for an additional 30 minutes, uncovered.

We have company.

2011-02-13T14:00:00.000-05:00

And his name is Miles. He's a 17-week-old furry ball of energy who pees when he gets overly excited and poops when he feels stressed out. However, in just three days we taught him to pee outside, "stay", and "here." Although tiny and still weary of the world, he'll propel his body against anything. And as you can see here, he likes to chase his own tail all.morning.long. A great source of entertainment for this sitter.

Arrow Love

2011-02-08T11:06:00.001-05:00

I had a dream with arrows a few weeks ago. Not sure what it means - war, protection, hunting? I don't know, but it definitely sparked my attention and now everywhere I go I see arrows. Then I bumped into this blog that shows you how to make cool ones. Maybe I should host an arrow-crafting-night-with-fun-ladies night....

UPDATE: Design Sponge just posted a how-to on making arrows.

Fabric

2011-02-07T16:30:00.003-05:00

Online fabric shopping has become a new obsession of mine. All the colors, patterns, and designs are enough to give me a heart eye attack. The endless possibilities are making my project/idea list grow exponentially with every lunch break I take, and for lunch today I found these crazy swatches from Purl. I don't know if it's my grey surroundings that's making me beg for more brightness or what, but lately I've been flirting with hot pinks, mint greens, electric blues and sunny oranges. Drool.

let's jump!

2011-02-02T23:03:00.003-05:00

From yimmyayo

Like

2011-02-02T17:19:00.001-05:00

10:00am Music Video Inspiration

2011-02-02T10:02:00.002-05:00

Colorful news on a grey winter day.

2011-02-01T16:26:00.004-05:00

The news is out - my friends and their friends are procreating. Several new baby friends are scheduled to arrive this coming summer, and guess what - I love summer, I love babies, and I own a sewing machine now. Mini projects for mini people! Congratulations to Elsbeth (twins!), Adrianne (girl!) and Kristina (hopefully girl!)!

Forecast for Today: A lot of snow in your FACE!

2011-01-26T09:41:00.009-05:00

As some of you know, I am OBSESSED with the weather forecast. I check the forecast on average about 5 times a day. I also like to compare forecasts across several different sites. Over the years I have found that Apple's weather widget is always wrong but not as bad as weather.com. People insist on using weather.com and it makes me want to punch them in the face. Just because "weather" is in the name doesn't make it credible. Listen, if you want the real deal visit USWX or NOAA. I am serious about the weather.

Today: Snow before 2pm, then snow and sleet. The snow could be heavy at times (like now) High near 38. East wind between 11 and 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 10,000%. Total daytime snow and sleet accumulation of 3 to 5 inches possible (HELL YEA!)

Tonight: Snow, mainly before 3am. The snow could be heavy at times. Low around 28. Blustery (I love this word), with a north wind between 16 and 22 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New snow accumulation of 3 to 7 inches possible. (BOOM!)

mannequins

2011-01-21T12:20:00.002-05:00

These sexy ladies were showing off at the Puces de Vanves - a flea market in Paris (one of the best I've been to). They inspired me to put down "Learn how to sew" on my 2011 new year's resolution list. So I purchased a sewing machine. Now I have to figure out how to use it.

In the end

2011-01-19T15:44:00.004-05:00

The strangest aspect about traveling alone is not having the luxury to be a part of your own adventure...on film that is. You sort of roam around like a fly on the wall taking note of everything and everyone but yourself. I did, however, make a conscious decision an hour before leaving the country to swing by the Eiffel Tower, sit by the Seine River, and eat a parisian hot dog. Because in the end, it's all I really wanted to do.

gold and silver

2011-01-19T15:04:00.003-05:00

Just Because.

Mozart, Chopin, & Puccini

2011-01-17T19:43:00.007-05:00

Mamiya645, 100ISO

Catsitting is fun. You don't do much, they don't do much. Kind of just sit there and stare at each other. Nevertheless, an awesome distraction when you have no money and a long weekend ahead of you.

Paris leftovers

2011-01-06T16:38:00.001-05:00

best christmas present ever

2011-01-03T10:38:00.003-05:00

This year my roommate took the prize for best christmas present ever. He knows how much I love hot air balloons so he made a miniature model that would float up to the ceiling once I opened the box (carefully, as instructed). And in the "basket" I found two tickets to a hot air balloon ride in Turkey. Not sure I'll ever be able to top this. He's the best.

The Woods

2010-12-18T21:48:00.004-05:00

Back when they had leaves.

Paris Trois, Montmartre et Sacre Coeur

2010-12-18T15:57:00.009-05:00

Montmartre is a hill (the butte Montmartre) which is 130 meters high, giving its name to the surrounding district, in the north of Paris in the 18th arrondissement. The hill is the highest natural point in Paris. Sacre Coeur is the white church sitting 129 meters above sea level on top of the Montmartre Hill in Paris.

Paris Deux

2010-12-17T11:21:00.005-05:00

Hotel Minerve turned out to be exactly what I wanted. Small, warm, and dressed with impressive arrays of gaudy wallpaper and carpets, floor to ceiling. The bed was firm (as a rock), and the shower walls hugged me quite nicely, but I did have my own personal balcony overlooking the road that led me to all my (solo) adventures.

My first hour in Paris

2010-12-16T14:48:00.003-05:00

I couldn't focus on the details during hour No. 1 in Paris. There was snow, a wintery sunset, and a city I was ready to love. Details to come.

remember when it was Fall?

2010-12-16T10:34:00.005-05:00

I do. And I remember driving upstate in an oversized red minivan with a couple of fabulous ladies in search of fresh apples and warm donuts. That was a good day.

Paris!

2010-11-24T12:01:00.004-05:00

Soon, I will scratch off the last item on my 2010 To Do List. I am excited. Really, really excited. This is where I will be staying - the 5th arrondissement of Paris.

teammates

2010-11-18T11:45:00.004-05:00

Really gotten into "Game Night" these days. Dinner, drinks and games. I really can't think of anything more joyful than "Game Night" to tough this winter out. If you're interested in playing, email me. Games include Apples to Apples, Cranium, and the occasional Charades. Picture by Emily Ullrich

Louis C.K. at Carnegie Hall

2010-11-07T21:38:00.003-05:00

I laughed so hard and for so long, I gave myself a stomach ache.

10 10 10

2010-11-07T21:31:00.003-05:00

Good friends Tsu & Michael got married on 10-10-10, and then we partied on a trampoline. It's true.

best quality matches

2010-10-26T22:19:00.004-04:00

I like matches. They make fire. How can I resist! But beyond their fire-making abilities, I think I'm most intrigued by their small boxed homes and the way you can slide them open in any direction you please. And even more special is all the different ways people choose to design them. On my way home tonight, I found these three to add to the collection.

Gnomes and Nature

2010-10-16T10:24:00.002-04:00

Found these postcards in the craft room. I think I like them too much to give them away. Sorry, penpals.

the last of Summer 2010 pictures...

2010-10-06T11:40:00.001-04:00

by Andy

first annual Leonard Street block party

2010-09-29T12:34:00.004-04:00

It was a rager.

Montauk take 2

2010-09-26T12:51:00.005-04:00

moto

2010-09-26T11:53:00.002-04:00

rooftop, Brooklyn

2010-09-26T11:46:00.004-04:00

How did Ed and Sarah get married?

2010-09-26T11:28:00.004-04:00

They eloped in Las Vegas and on April 25, 2010, they invited their favorite people to celebrate over whole pigs, karaoke, and an open bar in New York City. Now THAT is a good story.

best.summer.ever

2010-09-08T10:45:00.005-04:00

The best.summer.ever ended with a trip to New Jersey for the Koski's Annual Labor Day Pool Party. It's the one time out the entire year that I get to feast on Hooter's wings followed by a canonball followed by more wings. Oh, and let's not forget the 6-course meal preceding a colorful spread of desserts. Indeed, pool parties get better with age, and I have the Koski's to thank for that.

my mother

2010-08-21T11:18:00.003-04:00

Maria Gonzalez.

reminders of a Fall ahead

2010-08-21T10:05:00.005-04:00

Been sifting through some old photos taken during my experimentation phase with dad's old Mamiya. Coincidently they all reflect the thought I had this morning when I walked outside to find a cool, Fall-like morning air. It took every bit of effort to repress the thought of summer coming to end, but then I surveyed the backyard and realized its greeness is slowly withering away. Fine. Fall may be coming, but it hasn't come yet.

Glenn Anthony

2010-07-22T10:53:00.003-04:00

Glenn likes pools.

sparklers

2010-07-22T10:50:00.002-04:00

by Emily Jean Ullrich

Giglio Festival, Williamsurg Brooklyn

2010-07-21T19:26:00.003-04:00

Pranked

2010-07-20T11:54:00.005-04:00

During my reign at Industrial Color, I made sure to trick, scare, and prank my co-workers at least once a week or whenever the opportunity presented itself. I managed to piss a lot of people off during my trickery, but I didn't care because it make me laugh. Fast Ashley's was my favorite prey, and finally, after enduring years of my nonsense they decided to turn the tables on me during my last day at Industrial Color. These are some stills from the video they took. I'm on the left in my cute polka dot romper covered in gobs of moist silly string. I'm very proud of them, but this just means war.

sea

2010-07-17T12:14:00.001-04:00

the party crowd, Montauk

2010-07-17T12:02:00.004-04:00

Montauk, Long Island

2010-07-15T22:43:00.003-04:00

sun, clams, waves, and friends.

black & white, 4th of July

2010-07-15T22:24:00.006-04:00

columbia, maryland

Maryland

2010-07-13T15:18:00.001-04:00

Pier 40, NYC

2010-07-13T13:29:00.001-04:00

Coney Island, NY

2010-07-13T12:21:00.000-04:00

andrew carter

2010-07-01T17:04:00.000-04:00

fire and water

2010-07-01T17:01:00.001-04:00