hiker in heels

The Future Belongs to the Curious

2012-03-12T12:11:00.001-04:00

Love this video from Skillshare - never stop learning!

The Future Belongs to the Curious from Skillshare on Vimeo.

on pals

2012-02-17T11:25:00.000-05:00

I've been thinking a lot about friendship lately and what it means. I could write a long post on these thoughts, but what I really want to do is thank my lifelong pals. Thank you for your unyielding loyalty, for your incredible wisdom, for your unconditional love and support, for helping me grow and change, for making me laugh until my stomach hurts, for dealing with me when I'm a pain in the ass and calling me on my shit, for letting me call you on your shit because you know it means I love you, for your adventuresome spirits, for sticking together even though we're learning how fast and hard life changes are, for opening your hearts, for being my family (even though you're not all pictured here, you know who you are). I am so so thankful to have you.

Ok, and on a less serious note, how funny is this? I snorted I laughed so hard.

Have a fabulous weekend!

ted quotes

2012-02-16T17:34:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't love a good Ted Talk? I love to hear people speak on what they are passionate about and I bet you do, too. But today I discovered Ted Quotes, which is pretty rad because I can get a taste of a talk before watching the 20 minute video and share the cool quotes from them via social media. Check it out.

fall in love today

2012-02-14T12:50:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day, friends! It doesn't matter which team you're playing for this year - what's wrong with a holiday completely devoted to love? I'm in love with so many people, places and things.

I had a Valentine's Day party on Friday and made people write down something they love on an instant picture I took of them and everyone taped them on some hanging ribbon. The answers were awesome. Here's a few:

I LOVE:
-drunk dancing
-brunch
-my (future) dog named Paul
-cheese
-bad decisions
-summer
-new friends
-home

Find a reason to fall in love with something today - it's all around.

And if you still need a little entertainment, check out the trailer for my all time favorite Valentine's Day movie, SOME LIKE IT HOT

*images courtesy of Park & Cube, Bippity Boppity Boo & Elements of Style

monday memories

2012-02-13T15:40:00.002-05:00

Parties & brunching book club & sangria - oh my!

Field Notes Valentine

2012-02-08T12:11:00.001-05:00

Really love this video from Field Notes for their new red notebooks in time for Valentine's Day. But really, the video is more about a valentine from a husband to his wife - beautiful.

Field Notes: Red Blooded from Coudal Partners on Vimeo.

With Love, The Beekman Boys

2012-02-02T10:39:00.000-05:00

For you longtime readers, you might remember my book club's road trip to Sharon Springs to see first hand everything we read about in The Bucolic Plague (and the delight that is Josh & Brent I had seen on Planet Green's The Fabulous Beekman Boys).

I saw that their shop Beekman 1802 had lovely and thoughtful heirloom gifts for Valentine's Day. Just perfect.

(red hot goat milk candle)

(paper journal for those love notes)

(teatime for two)

(mm, truffles!)

(bird messenger - what a cute idea!)

Stripe & Field

2012-02-01T18:28:00.001-05:00

Just discovered Stripe and Field while reading the latest issue of Matchbook Magazine and saw a paperweight I fell in love with (yes, it IS possible to fall in love with a paperweight!). Paper goods and paper weights, they've got great taste and style.

(folded notes)

(stationary sets)

(gift sets)

(and yes, THE paperweight)

thoughts of home.

2012-01-31T11:41:00.002-05:00

Hey, have you joined Pinterest like the rest of the planet? Then follow me here! I'm cataloging images from art to inspiration, parties to gift ideas, personal style to travel and of course, home decor. I've been storing a hodgepodge of images on my computer otherwise, so thought I'd throw them up here just like I would before my pinterest board. Don't worry - you'll still get doses of inspiration here at Hiker in Heels.

(how cool are these striped floors? rustic meets sophisticated)

(want - crazy cutout screen)

(small space, endless possibility)

(I hope I have the guts someday to paint hardwood floors white)

(yes please)

(homey, perfect kitchen)

(I like my bedrooms airy, but my offices to be bold - rawr!)

(great bookcase, equestrian inspired)

(nicely styled bar w/killer lamps)

*Images courtesy of Shelter, Desire to Inspire, La Dolce Vita & Isuwannee

Monday Memories

2012-01-30T18:30:00.004-05:00

City adventures and decadence to boot!

On the Road: Around the world in 11 Days.

2012-01-26T10:38:00.000-05:00

What a way to kick off the new year! I am producing a few short international documentaries at work and was sent to Mongolia and then England for some of the shoots in a crazy adventure that led me around the world. It was an incredible experience - I can't believe I almost didn't go out of fear. It was a long plane flights, unbelievably cold (in the negatives every day) and I had no idea if my stomach would be able to handle the food. But I'm so glad I went. Mongolia was incredibly foreign - like a Soviet Asia - but such warm people and a place to marvel. And it reminded me that I'm fearless. I needed that. And then the English countryside was so beautiful and I even got to see some dear friends who live there. All in all, pretty amazing. Check out some photos:

(the capital, Ulaanbataar)

(our director's frozen eyelashes)

(I made a friend)

(Shaman holy place)

(crew caravan)

(the country, on the road to Darkhan)

(Mongolian pony and rider)

(camels)

(bowmaster's son)

(heading back to the capital)

(my boss and I - can't even describe how cold it is)

(roadside farm)

(preparing yak's milk tea in a traditional ger (yurt))

(drawing that bow was hard!)

(morning prayer at a Buddhist monastery)

(monks calling to prayer)

(prayer wheels)

(our fearless DP)

(Chingghis Khan statue)

(you could go and stand on the horses head!)

(final crew dinner in Mongolia)

(train from London to Exeter)

(my coworker in Cathedral yard)

(the Cathedral)

(beautiful Exeter morning)

(crew in a sleepy village)

(horses!)

(picture perfect weather)

Here's to you, 2012.

2012-01-20T16:07:00.000-05:00

I can't help but shake this amazing feeling that 2012 is going to be awesome. I am not even going to try and figure out why I think that, but I am just going to let it happen. And you know what? That's awesome. In 2011, I did a lot of thinking. But I realized one of my happiest years was when I lived by what my GUT told me (2008 for those of you keeping track). Less thinking, more DOING. Less making things happen, more ALLOWING things to happen. I am an open vessel ready to run. It's going to be a great year. Happy Friday and Happy 2012, friends.

*Images courtesy of Andy Teo, bippity boppity boo, but does it float & pink wallpaper

gone again!

2012-01-01T17:58:00.000-05:00

Leaving tomorrow for two weeks to shoot two short doc films for work - one in Mongolia, one in England - wow! I doubt there will be time to blog much, but there will be much to share when I return. Until then, I'll leave you with a holiday photo dump. Happy New Year, friends!

monday memories

2011-12-21T13:28:00.000-05:00

I know it's not Monday, but I forgot to photo dump the last two Fridays. I've been traveling/working a ton and can't even remember what a weekend looks like. Here are a few that I'll leave before heading home for the holidays.

austin abode.

2011-12-08T10:00:00.000-05:00

Hey ya'll! I'm in Austin today for the next few days for a super fun and exciting shoot for work. Remember how much I love Austin? A great project in a great city.

And for you, dear readers, check out this Austin home tour over at Apartment Therapy. It's cowboy chic and makes me want a stuffed dear head really badly. Tally ho!

inspired letterpress.

2011-12-07T11:14:00.001-05:00

Really love this letterpress art work of Steve Jobs' famous quote from BrightWurks.

Thanks to my roomie for finding it!

monday memories: phone photo dump

2011-12-05T15:06:00.001-05:00

Every Monday, I'll post some of my favorite phone photos taken or saved on the ol' iphone from the previous week. Shout out to Kelle Hampton, whom I'm totally stealing this idea from. Enjoy!

crafty holiday

2011-12-02T12:07:00.001-05:00

(burlap banner)

Really love these images (and items!) from Etsy. I love making holidays your own. I myself am on the hunt for some fun stockings this weekend for the Berkeley Penthouse.

(bright vintage red reindeer)

(gilded, girlie ornaments)

(a guide to making your own paper ornaments!)

a very vogue white house christmas

2011-12-01T10:17:00.001-05:00

I have a very dear friend whose boyfriend's cousin decorated the White House for Christmas! How cool is that? And I love her taste - mixing bright colors with natural pieces and a bit if glitz is how I like to decorate, too. Who says you have to stick to red and green? Check her out in the Vogue piece and in the images below.

inspired by...

2011-11-28T13:38:00.001-05:00

Currently inspired by these images this week. Pondering, waiting, working...

the end of autumn.

2011-11-23T11:52:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving - the real end to fall. My favorite season and my favorite holiday. Soon it'll be my birthday, Christmas and 2012.

This year, I am thankful for:
*my job. I get to go to work every day and work with incredible people that I respect and have become fast friends. I am building something I believe in. And I am constantly excited about what's next for my team.
*my wanderlust. I love to travel. I love the new foods, and friends I make on the fly and the places I get to see that I never imagined. And I love coming home.
*my family. To the people that have unconditional love and support, those by blood and by choice. The word "friend" doesn't do some of you justice. You know who you are - and I am so blessed.
*my health. I couldn't be me without my strength. I couldn't run and dance and make choices without my strong and able body.
*my faith. It's nice to know it can't rain every day and I have someone who will take care of things when I can't. It always all turns out.

And on to our next season. Here's to reflection, laying low nights, laughs over red wine and quiet walks through the fresh snow.

french study

2011-11-14T09:12:00.001-05:00

Pulled some of these images over the weekend of french botanical and marine drawings. Love this style for inspiration.

quotes lately

2011-11-09T17:42:00.001-05:00

Things I am currently thinking about, remembering, aspiring...

*Images via Here's the Problem, The Improvised Life & La Dolce Vita

autumn of arestia

2011-11-03T14:10:00.003-04:00

I am having an amazing autumn. Aside from the great travel I've been fortunate to do over the last couple of months, I am just loving this season. Fun times with friends and quiet nights cooking cool weather favorites. It all makes me feel like there's endless possibility and that I have the power to make things splendid and beautiful.

It's also that time of year where I start to reflect about next year. Work is going 120 MPH, but it's so so good. I'll need to find the time to invent 2012. What new country will I visit? What great things will I learn? What new things will come my way? What changes will take center stage?

I hope you're having a great rest of your 2011.

*photos courtesy of Sarah Hodges, bippity, boppity, boo, the lil bee & stephmodo

bois beautiful

2011-10-28T13:36:00.001-04:00

I'm helping to produce two events at work and have been looking at rustic, natural wood pieces. I wish my house could hold some more furniture. Here are some handmade pieces on Etsy I love.

(industrial desk)

(the laurel bookcase)

(Osage orange table pair)

(pallet chairs)

carrying on

2011-10-23T21:39:00.000-04:00

(one morning ready to stand up paddle, Laguna Beach, end of August)

(view from my beloved friend's flat on the Thames, London, beginning of September)

(a day trip to Mount Charleston, Las Vegas, mid-September)

(Chi-town skyline during a friend trip/reunion, Chicago, beginning of October)

(a friend's family's country house on a vineyard, Fingerlakes Region, NY, mid-October)

In the past two months, I've done an incredible amount of traveling, as well as started a new job (well, a new career, really) four weeks ago. I know my post have waned, dear readers. It doesn't mean I've been less inspired - just less time to muse...

dirty art

2011-09-14T16:14:00.000-04:00

Really love this online gallery of art on dirty car windows. What a great way to make something everyday and gross into something beautiful and whimsical.

new chair

2011-08-15T15:27:00.001-04:00

Many of the looming changes are happening quite soon! Roommates are moving in and out next weekend and the movie I am working on will be done at the same time. Stay tuned.

In the meantime, in prepping my home for said transition, I did invest in one new piece of furniture - a new chair! I always wanted a leather chair and this one fits the Berkeley Penthouse perfectly. I love it.

Move, Learn, Eat

2011-08-10T15:15:00.000-04:00

Love these 3 travel videos entitled MOVE, LEARN & EAT, shot over 11 countries in 44 days. Short, simple and beautiful. MOVE is just plain cool, LEARN inspires me to have one local teach me something in every new country I visit and EAT reinforces my love of food and travel.

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

LEARN from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

EAT from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

work bags

2011-08-09T12:35:00.001-04:00

I've got my eye on a new work bag, one that can sling over my shoulder with a long strap, but is still cute to tote along to after work events. Right now, I have a classic Coach bag, not too far off from this (only red canvas with tan leather handles that's so old this was the closest thing I could currently find on the site):

(only imagine one of the handles a little chewed thanks to my brother's dog, Champ)

Love this leather and wool number from Ralph Lauren Rugby, but a little out of my price range for something so seasonal.

But what I'd really love is this Prada bag I saw on Swirl today.

Definitely out of my price range, so I've put my step-mother on assignment to find me a fabulous fake while she's in Hong Kong. Hopefully she can find me something great!

Newport Folk Festival Music Recommendations

2011-08-01T13:14:00.002-04:00

Another summer, another glorious weekend at the Newport Folk Festival. To me, it's the country's best music festival (it is, in fact, the longest running music festival in America). What makes it so special is not only the incredible line-up of back-to-back artists over two days, but the incredible spirit of the festival. People from all backgrounds, old and young, come to listen to wonderful musicians as they lie down on blankets or dance in the aisles. As Taylor Goldsmith from Middle Brother said during their set, "It's not about what's modern or new. It's about what's GOOD;" and, the fans here appreciate good music. It's all about the music and pure joy. I found it hard to keep up with everyone I wanted to see at the three stages. Here are some recommendations of my favorite artists from this year you may or may not know.

The Wailin' Jennys

Typhoon

Delta Spirit

Tegan & Sara

The Devil Makes Three

Brown Bird

Trampled by Turtles

The Cave Singers

Chris Thile & Michael Daves

Middle Brother

The Head and the Heart

The Civil Wars

Aggressive list, I know. Imagine running around to see everyone! To listen to the sets live from the festival, head over to NPR.

happy bastille day

2011-07-14T13:40:00.001-04:00

In honor of Bastille Day (and because I miss Paris all the time), here are some French things for you to muse over.

(french flag pillow on etsy)

(glorious Paris scenes from An Education)

(scrumptious macaroons for Boston's own Sportello)

closet visit

2011-07-12T15:38:00.000-04:00

Love the photo project Closet Visit by Jeana Sohn. She visits the stylish and creative closets of fabulous ladies and photographs them and their pieces. Closets really can tell a story (there's text, too if you want to learn more about each person).

newport wedding

2011-07-12T08:00:00.001-04:00

My cousin got married over the weekend at the New York Yacht Club in Newport, RI. This wedding could easily be a feature in Town & Country-J.Crew-New York Times-Boating Magazine-Bride magazine. Suffice to say it was simply gorgeous. Took some shots to capture the event.

getting organized

2011-07-06T08:20:00.000-04:00

Or rather, attempting to. A lot of things are happening. But you know what? I'm having a lot of fun. And if it's not fun, why do it? I feel like summer is moving at a blinding speed, so I'm trying not to be too adult right now, but also focused. Man, is it hard. Decisions to make, choices to take. All will be well.

simply moving

2011-06-28T15:38:00.001-04:00

My roommate Brian Forte over at Please Welcome Your Judges blogged about this moving little video, that actually got me a little emotional. It's just beautiful and one of the best online videos I've seen in a long time. Read more about it's production and watch - its worth it:

Splitscreen: A Love Story from JW Griffiths on Vimeo.

the coolest apartment in NYC

2011-06-28T10:34:00.000-04:00

Has got to be this clock tower apartment.

Amiright?

street artist

2011-06-08T13:18:00.000-04:00

I feel overwhelmed by the number of people calling themselves "street artists" these days, especially since Exit Through the Gift Shop came out last year. Yet I can't help but find moments of wonder and curiosity in their work. I love this short video WordtoMother at Fame Festival Italy 2010. Special thanks to my new friend Ben for sending it to me.

Madre from Andrew Telling on Vimeo.

studs.

2011-06-01T22:02:00.001-04:00

I am so into pretty studs. Not the man kind (I mean, those, too), but the kind for your ears. Having almost no earlobes (truth), I don't look great in dangly earrings, so I opt for a pretty stud. And Ms. Jamie's shop Furbish over at ISuwannee is making me reach for my wallet. I think I'll bring home these three for summer and beyond.

What do you think? Too much?

give it to me

2011-05-31T23:03:00.000-04:00

Must. Have. Isola. Snakeskin. Bootie.

Please?

paper lanterns

2011-05-31T14:50:00.000-04:00

Saw Hangover 2 this weekend and there is this lovely scene where everyone sends off paper lanterns into the air, like this:

I've always loved paper lanterns - they evoke a sense of wonder. I wish I had a garden to hang some from... If you do, 'tis the season for them!

*images courtesy of we heart it, green wedding shoes & simply photo

happy official start to summer

2011-05-27T16:10:00.000-04:00

It's here, it's here! My most favorite and the most magical time of the year - SUMMER! After this brutal winter, we Bostonians absolutely need it. It's 80 degrees outside and I'm excited for a lovely weekend - kick it off with al fresco drinks, run a half marathon (no big) and hit the beach. Utter perfection.

happy birthday hiker in heels

2011-05-19T16:20:00.002-04:00

Guess what I realized this week? It's been a year since my first post when I started this silly little blog. Thanks for following me along my daily inspirations and occassional adventures. It's always strange for me to measure my years. I've lived in Boston for three years and three months, which seems like an awfully long time. Friends have changed, but the few that matter have stuck by my side through thick and thin. The apartment I live in is truly my home. I've held more contracts than I could begin to count, dated more men than I'd like to admit and am lucky that the good times tip the scales over the bad. And yet, the adventures seem to continue. So until they stop, I'll continue to write about them and continue to be inspired.

more small space love

2011-05-17T14:54:00.001-04:00

I've really fallen in love with small spaces and the challenge to make them just right. Apartment Therapy seems to share this love, as they've posted some stellar pics of small spaces over the past couple of months. Here are some favorites to inspire - sometimes it's ok to think little.

(great headboard/storage/divider)

(nice peek-a-boo office with a whole lotta storage)

(don't you love this makeshift living room in the hallway? feels like a chic hotel room)

(great little set up in a very small nyc apt)

(another great small working space in an awkward corner)

(love the bookcase behind the bed and the innovative use of space)

(who need a kitchen table? I spy an awesome ikea bar that works and looks great)

screen inspiration: mildred pierce

2011-05-16T17:43:00.001-04:00

Over the weekend, I finally finished the HBO mini series event, MILDRED PIERCE. The story of a complicated relationship between a mother and daughter during depression-era California has many dark twists and turns and is a great story. Here's the trailer:

As Kate Winslet said in an interview, there was nothing mini about it. Five parts, approximately an hour each, were shot over a 16 week period. It takes about 10 weeks to make a movie, longer for a period piece. This was like shooting two and a half movies. And it was incredible. Kate Winslet is a favorite of mine and I think no one else could have played this part as well. And the sets and costuming (by the legendary Ann Roth) made the whole thing truly spectacular. I can't say enough about the costuming and production design.

One thing that struck me when doing the research was how much inspiration the crew got out of photographer Saul Leiter. Leiter liked to use windows and reflective surfaces to capture image and the inspiration of his work is clearly seen throughout this series. The crew even normally used the term "Leiter-y" to define a shot.

Look at a couple shots from the series:

And now some great photos from Saul Leiter:

Isn't it fantastic when we inspire each other?

Check out the series on HBO on demand before it goes away!

one hill

2011-05-10T11:25:00.000-04:00

Pretty photo project by Chicago based photographer/filmographer Paul Octavious. He shoots images and videos from one hill, like this great video on the kite festival.

Kite Hill from Paul Octavious on Vimeo.

To me, his images evoke wonder with a bit of melancholy - like it's a fairyland...

toot toot

2011-05-09T16:59:00.000-04:00

Have to toot my own horn and show you this video I recently directed and edited for BostInnovation.com. They're Cinco de Mayo party was a blast and hopefully you get that from this video.

derby day!

2011-05-09T08:00:00.004-04:00

A tradition amongst my group of friends, we love dressing up for the Kentucky Derby and going to some day party. This year was no different, complete with dollar bets on our favorite horses. Alas, I was not the winner, but we still donned some fabulous hats, drank mint juleps and had a grand time.

on the road: atlanta

2011-05-06T09:56:00.000-04:00

A little late to the game, I wanted to post my adventures in Atlanta for my adult spring break! Braves game, music festival, good food and new friends. It was nonstop fun (and exhausting). I think the pictures speak for themselves.

(Sara and I at the Braves game)

(Inman Park Festival)

(music performers in the street)

(the fearless three)

(we take our hosts to brunch)

(group shot, hanging in the park)

(king of pops, an atlanta staple)

just peachy

2011-04-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

This morning, I am on my way to Atlanta for a little spring vacation for the weekend. I'm pretty excited to decompress and soak up some sun. Things seem to be moving pretty fast, so I wouldn't mind going the speed of the south for a couple of days to clear my head. Can you believe it's May this weekend? When did that happen?

celebrity sighting: elmo

2011-04-28T22:06:00.000-04:00

Last night Roommates and I went to the screening of the talk of Sundance this year, BEING ELMO at the opening of the Independent Film Festival Boston 2011. If you get the chance to see the film, go. The incredibly inspiring story of Kevin Clash, Elmo's puppeteer (lesser known as the puppeteer as the baby from Dinosaurs and Splinter from the Ninja Turtles movies), was pure joy. There was a great Q&A after with the filmmakers and Kevin and of course, Elmo, which had me in stitches. My favorite was when someone asked Elmo what the challenges are being on a TV show and Elmo said, "Well, Elmo's not on a television show, Elmo just lives on Sesame Street! But, sometimes Oscar can be challenging." It's clear he has a gift and was just so...on. Here's a clip for the film:

go bu

2011-04-27T10:38:00.000-04:00

My friend and queen of CSN stores Lauren sent me the link to buy these. Terrier Pride forever.

take me outside

2011-04-26T17:34:00.000-04:00

Like most Bostonians, I am itching to just be able to be outside. The choice activity on my mind right now is stand up paddle and it's all I want to do. The idea of simply walking down the street to the Charles River and hopping on a board sounds like summer perfection to me. I've got my eye on an inflatable one for easy apartment storage.

And for some water/adventure inspiration, I love this video about a videographer who takes his passion to the ocean:

DARK SIDE OF THE LENS from Astray Films on Vimeo.

crafty gals

2011-04-25T08:00:00.002-04:00

For the past two Friday nights, Roommate and I took sewing classes. That's right - 1950s style. There's a cute fabric shop in the South End called Grey's Fabric & Notions and everytime I walked by, the sign for classes always caught my curiosity. I always wanted to learn how to use a sewing machine, so we took the opportunity to get crafty and took the Basics class. It was a lot of fun and at $25 per class plus supplies, a great deal. Sarah, who owns and operates the shop, was our teacher and she was super cute, fun, but most importantly, patient (because girlfriend needed it with us). She even made us tea and put out treats - how nice is that? Our first week we made pillows and this past Friday, bags! I'm definitely going back for other classes. Check out the photos (I'm going crazy on instagram on my iphone lately).

(fabric choices)

(Sarah cuts fabric)

(instruction)

(finished!)

legs under, walk forward

2011-04-22T18:00:00.001-04:00

I must apologize for my lack of posts lately. I was thrown into another project and aside from a break on Marathon Monday, I've been pretty much working nonstop for two weeks. All is well, though! Work is still great and possibilities seem to be pouring in. Looking forward to a relaxing weekend with pockets of fun, filled with good friends and family. Easter is here marking the end of Lent, but I hope I don't let go of that introspective attitude too much. And it's supposed to get warmer next week! I hope spring is finally here... Happy Easter!

*Images courtesy of bippity boppity boo, pink wallpaper & fuckyeahsummerthings

hats galore

2011-04-22T15:59:00.000-04:00

Here ye, here ye: there are THREE occasions for fabulous spring hats in the next two weeks: Easter, The Royal Wedding & The Kentucky Derby. While I don't particularly look good in hats, I still think it's fun form of self expression one time a year. At what other time are feather & silk flower monstrosities on top of your head are en vogue? And while this year I spotted a gorgeous turquoise number in a local shop that would be perfect, sometimes these hats can run a little pricey... ($200-$300 pricey).

So I scoured etsy to bring you some more affordable options to go with your bourbon for all those lovely parties. Cheers!

(Proud as a Peacock hat, $45)

(fuchsia fascinator cocktail hat, $65)

(spring fling modern pillbox hat, $34.50)

(yellow top hat, $45)

(blooming pink sun hat, $35)

(if you're really against hats, this peony clip is a lovely option, $20)

*Kentucky Derby Hats picture courtesy of Chateau & Bungalow

the homes of Boston's most beloved chefs

2011-04-21T09:06:00.001-04:00

A little tardy in reading my Improper Bostonian this month, only this morning was I so delighted to see I got a peak inside the abodes of some of my most beloved chefs. Of course their kitchens looked perfect (and true, it seems, to their style of cooking). Get your hands on one either today or tomorrow to see more pictures, or if you're out of town, you can read about them all online.

(a restaurant quality kitchen for Chef Barbara Lynch of No. 9 Park, Sportello, the Butcher Shop, B&G Oysters, Drink and Menton)

(L’Espalier and Sel de la Terre Chef Frank McClelland's farm house)

(the penthouse of fellow South Ender Chef Ken Oringer of Clio, Uni, Toro, La Verdad, Coppa, KO Prime)

(Four Seasons Executive Chef Brooke Vosika makes wine, cider and cured meats in his basement)

(pops of color for Chef Lydia Shire of Scampo & Towne)

happy birthday fenway park

2011-04-20T23:16:00.002-04:00

Fenway Park turned 99 today. For all its faults, it's really a special place and there would be rioting in the streets before anyone would allow it to come down. And next Thursday, you can purchase a commemorative brick with a message that will be placed in the concourse spanning from Gates B to C in honor of the 100th birthday next year. Pretty cool, huh?

Makes me think of my own memories and that great writing in Field of Dreams:

America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again. But baseball has marked the time.

(siblings at fenway)

(college friends in the dugout before opening day)

(a fall game for COM every year)

(rioters outside, 2004)

(producing NESN's Sox Appeal, Season 2)

"aw" inspiring wedding dress

2011-04-20T11:55:00.000-04:00

This dress was made out of a parachute that saved the groom's life during WW2. How neat & "aw" inspiring is that? Read about it here.

vegas sprawl

2011-04-12T14:18:00.000-04:00

Check out this neat video of Las Vegas sprawl over 2 decades (and long held the title of fastest growing city in America most of that time). As someone that moved there in 1994 and left in 2003, you definitely felt the growth you see here!

latest video inspiration: shark pig

2011-04-04T17:39:00.001-04:00

So inspired by filmmaker Brian Morrow of Shark Pig. He shoots lovely videos of weddings, other events, photoshoots and beyond. His videos are so fun to watch and cool - makes you feel like you missed the fabulous party! Check out some of my favorites.

ain't no party like a ban.do party from Shark Pig on Vimeo.

Suzanna & Kegan in Super 8mm from Shark Pig on Vimeo.

carrying on

2011-04-04T16:25:00.000-04:00

(MALL COP wrap, approx. 6am, May 2008)

It's been a week on the new movie and it's, dare I say it, the 5th Kevin James movie I've been lucky to be a part of. I love this job, I love this crew, I love my team. I feel great and am open to opportunity. Instead of putting my extra energy into looking for work or worrying about super-short contracts, I can put my energy into creativity and self-expression. Isn't that beautiful?

artist: miss capricho

2011-03-31T18:05:00.000-04:00

As long as I've received my Daily Candy emails, I've always wondered whose done their artwork - lovely, whimsical watercolors. I love the cityscape of Boston and always thought it would make a great print in my home. So, I tracked down the artist - Miss Capricho. And I bet she does your city, too...

And she does other great things, too. Be sure to check out here site for more.

as one project ends...

2011-03-25T16:58:00.000-04:00

("formal friday" with some co-workers since we normally dress like slobs)

...another begins. Today was my last day after 14 months at the same production company (the longest time somewhere for this contractor). It's surreal - I'm excited to start on my new project, but I've made some great friends, worked with people always pushing me to be better & learned a whole lot along the way.

On to the next. And on and on and on...

food as art

2011-03-22T09:00:00.003-04:00

Bright red, orange and green peppers. Plump baskets of blueberries. Swirling cocktails. You know what? Food isn't only good, it's pretty. And while the food as art episode on Top Chef this season was the worst challenge ever, I still can't help but love that moment at a restaurant where your plate comes out and it just looks so gorgeous.

Meet Megan Elmstrom. She's a local photographer and I simply love all her food photos. They're perfect for marketing, sure, but they remind me how beautiful food can be.

south end snap shots

2011-03-21T09:00:00.000-04:00

Pretty light yesterday walking home. I walk up this street everyday and these look like the pictures in my head when I think of my neighborhood. I could see blowing them up and framing them some day.

on the road: las vegas

2011-03-20T22:33:00.000-04:00

Uploaded some photos from my trip home to Vegas and these are some of my favorite shots. Little Brother is the tennis player and I went hiking with Sister, Brother-In-Law, Niece & Nephew. I didn't appreciate the desert beauty when I lived there. I think it was all those years growing up by the ocean that made me dismiss the sand, lack of trees & unrelentless heat. But the light there is really lovely (which inspired the tennis photo shoot - it was perfect) and the wilderness evokes wonder.

tracy reece

2011-03-18T16:02:00.001-04:00

Bought a new T racy Reese dress a few weeks ago and itching to wear it....

It's pretty fabulous - great print, great coloring, great fit. While I can't buy one of her dresses all the time, I definitely think she nails great dresses you can wear to multiple kinds of occasions. Got my eyes on...

crazed transition

2011-03-17T12:21:00.001-04:00

I've been crazy busy and in transition mode and if you've followed me for a while, you know that means my posts start to wane. So, I went through my inspiration folder to throw some stuff here I've liked for a while &/or are on my mind. Helps me to take a moment and appreciate the world around me & its simple beauty, no matter the craziness.

(are super fun warm weather parties around the corner?)

(a quite chic home office in my favorite color, turquoise)

(simple delights: fresh flowers & pretty new shoes)

(a lovely mirror & feminine home I'm sure Roommate would love)

(framed old letters)

(smart design & homey comfort in a small space)

(stacked books and Louis V - what's not to love?)

*images via pink wallpaper, elements of style, little blue deer, pink wallpaper (x2), apartment therapy, louis vuitton

diy: clementine candle

2011-03-11T12:37:00.002-05:00

How To Make a Clementine Candle from maxwell gillingham-ryan on Vimeo.

Great video today over at Apartment Therapy on how to make a clementine candle. Fun party decoration for those spring dinner parties we're all dreaming about...

want: spring flat

2011-03-10T12:41:00.003-05:00

(give me these kate spade flats - please?)

guest post

2011-03-09T15:43:00.000-05:00

Please turn your attention to Please Welcome Your Judges, written by pop culture blogger and BFF, Brian Forte. I wrote a guest post today about my American Idol favorite and maybe soul mate, Paul McDonald.

before & after

2011-03-09T15:39:00.000-05:00

My mind is blown with this before & after shot of a kitchen over at design sponge. They often have awesome before and after posts; great for inspiration, so check it out. This one was a heart-stopping transformation. So lovely! While the idea of remodeling a kitchen totally terrifies me, it's still pretty neato.

happy fat tuesday

2011-03-08T12:40:00.000-05:00

The best part about Lent is the pancake supper at your church on Fat Tuesday. For you non-church-going/non-christians, yes, it's a thing. We get all fat before a season of fasting and prayer and it's awesome. My Big Boss at work makes pretty awesome pancakes for his three daughters, like letters to spell out their names. Mermaid pancakes were the winners last week:

(yeah, I'd be excited, too)

So fine, maybe I wanted to see what other cool pancakes were out there because I can't stop thinking about pancakes today and I stumbled upon Jim's Pancakes. It's just a blog about a dad making stupid cool pancakes for his daughter. And you know what? It's delightful.

Off to find some pancakes...

improvisational cook

2011-03-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

Sally Schneider just gets me. She lives life improvisationally, and I'm also a fly by the seat of my pants kind of girl (check out her awesome and interesting idea blog, the improvised life). So when she came out with The Improvisational Cook, I knew it was a must-have cook book for me. I like to cook and I can follow a recipe, but sometimes I just like looking at what's in my fridge and figuring it out from there. This book is something in between. It will be mine soon!

bea-u-ti-ful rooms

2011-03-01T10:00:00.001-05:00

Stunning rooms both inside and out this month from House Beautiful that made me gasp - gasp!

(love that sahara-scape)

(love those thick stripes)

(contemporary cool)

(understated elegance)

(small space chic - loving that gallery above)

tell the world that I'm going home

2011-02-28T15:45:00.001-05:00

(perhaps hiking in red rock this weekend)

Are you shocked? I've barely been here in Boston at my own home for a full week in the last three months, but sometimes, life is unexpected and I found out today I am not working the rest of the week, so taking advantage of the time to be with family. Fear not, I have some posts for you and will be back in Boston on Sunday, hopefully for a while.

memphis

2011-02-28T12:14:00.000-05:00

This past weekend in NY, I was fortunate enough to see the Broadway musical, MEMPHIS. I can't even begin to describe the show's beauty. A radio DJ wants to take the underground sounds of Beale Street to the masses while a singer just wants her big break. But 1950s Memphis doesn't take too kindly to the duo with racial tensions at an all time high. By intermission, there wasn't a dry eye in the house. The emotion of the show filled the Shubert Theater and the energy was nonstop. The music and costumes just added to the art. If you are in NY and have a chance, GO. You won't be disappointed.

another weekend away

2011-02-25T17:48:00.000-05:00

Guess to where? Seeing my aunts and cousin for a weekend away. Excited to drink champagne, talk about life, be with family & see Memphis! Hope you have a weekend filled with the little things.

dream in spring

2011-02-25T14:55:00.000-05:00

I need a more dresses like a hole in the head, but I can't help but dream about spring dresses. I'm sick of my coat and wool socks. Come, spring.

(lilly pulitzer shauna dress)

(red robin dress by emerson made)

(j.crew's crazy back ordered maritime dress)

surprising find

2011-02-25T13:42:00.000-05:00

I mean, I didn't find it. But my dear friend Ali was wearing this awesome top the other night and when she told me Talbots, yes, I balked, too. But Ms. Ali is a buyer for Talbots, so one employee discount later and I now have one, too. Already received several compliments at work. Get it here.

dog art by linda culp at gifted

2011-02-24T12:03:00.000-05:00

I popped into Gifted on a walk around my neighborhood over the weekend. If you're not in the know, Gifted is a great little gift shop in Boston's South End that stocks wares made from local artists (and stupid cute baby items). I loved prints of different dog breeds by Linda Culp and low and behold you can get them online (look under "Pet Gifts")! I don't see a Rhodesian Ridgeback like my Sophia on the website, but I did see one in the store and almost bought it. If you can't check out the store, you can check out the prints online and the rest of the awesome stuff from Gifted.

yarn bombers

2011-02-24T11:52:00.000-05:00

I've been itching to pick up knitting needles again and I love this article about gals in the South End "yarn bombing." These graffiti knitters work includes wrapping colorful rectangles of knitting around lampposts, hanging mittens from trees, snaking a knit flower vine around a bike rack and tagging a dog park fence with knitted bugs. I just make scarves. Read more here.

on the road: Nicaragua

2011-02-21T14:15:00.000-05:00

I was so happy and excited to visit my sister Thayer in Nicaragua for a few too short days. She's a Peace Corps volunteer and aside from a hiccup that cut my trip by a night and a half day, it was perfect. Because of said hiccup, we redid our itinerary and stayed in Granada the entire time and made day trips to near by spots.

When I first arrived in Managua, Thayer was right there at the airport and navigated us to a cab. I could see right away the ease in which she moved in a country so foreign to our own. I was simply hot as the sun radiated on us. We went back to the hotel she was staying in (she was in the capital for a routine medical check up) and picked up her friend and fellow volunteer, Katie. The three of us walked to get some lunch and I inquired about Katie's experience as a Nicaraguan.

(Katie & Thayer walking in Managua)

After lunch, we said goodbye for now to Katie and Thayer and I grabbed a bus to Granada, an hour away. We checked into our hotel, which was lovely and in an old Colonel mansion. We sat by the pool and planned our itinerary for the rest of the trip.

(Hotel Spa Granada courtyard)

(tour guide Thayer)

Later that night, we met up with another volunteer Sonia and her father for dinner. We walked around the main square a bit. Granada was having a poetry festival that weekend and there was a concert we watched for a bit before having a beer at one of the spots on what Thayer calls "Gringo Alley."

(poetry festival "rock" concert)

("gringo alley")

The next day, Thayer and I grabbed a shuttle to Laguna de Apollo. On the way there, I fell in love with the driver's dog, Lyka. As with any other Latin American country, there are dogs everywhere and of course you can't pet them, so Lyka fulfilled that need. When we got there, we went to this hostel on the lake and spent the afternoon swimming, reading, sleeping and the like. Thayer and I got sandwiches in Granada, so we got a beer from the hostel and had lunch on the dock. It was a sublime day.

(Laguna de Apollo)

(The Monkey Hut - hostel at the Lagoon)

(Lyka!)

When we got back, Thayer and I did some walking around to explore a bit. I loved the colonial style of some of the buildings. Granada is one of the few cities with its architecture in tact despite it's very long civil war.

Later, we went to Luis's house for dinner. Luis is a Peace Corps volunteer whose site is Granada and he was having a bunch of volunteers over to cook. We had a great time just sitting outside and talking. Then we went back to gringo alley for one final drink before calling it a night.

The next day, Thayer and I got up to do a canopy tour at the Volcano Mombato. It was a ton of fun and a great way to see the jungle. You could hear all the birds and howler monkeys (and we even saw one).

(Volcano Mombato)

After we got back, Thayer and I walked down to Lago Granada. The poor thing is so dirty, but it was a nice walk and cool to look back at the city.

Then it was time for lunch, showers and a nap. After, we went to one of the churches on top of the bell tower - it really was beautiful.

Then it was out for a night of fun and dancing with the rest of the volunteers left in town. We hopped around until we settled on a salsa club to dance the night away. It was really a great way to spend the last night.

(Katie & Sonia get it started)

The next day only left time to pack, eat breakfast, catch a bus back to Managua and go straight to the airport. A bit of a teary goodbye to my sister was the worst, but I'm so glad I went. Nicaragua is still trying to find its identity, but is a proud and beautiful country with friendly people. A too short trip, indeed.

digital valentine

2011-02-14T13:59:00.001-05:00

Made by my dear friend Mara, whose brain never stops & never ceases to amaze me with her process.

happy valentine's day!

2011-02-14T10:26:00.002-05:00

Check out this video of my friend TK handing out 30 roses to 30 random women in the Boston Public Garden and just try and tell me it doesn't get you in the spirit.

inspiring local: Olivia Chaffee

2011-02-11T13:57:00.000-05:00

If your a Bostonian and happened to pick up a Stuff Magazine this week, be sure to read the article entitled Heart and Sole (or just do it here). My coworker told me her roommate was featured and it's a great inspiring story. It features Olivia Chaffee, an art teacher in Dorcester who started a program where kids design sneakers. Her project, Walkin' the Tightrope, was a way for kids in this harsh neighborhood to do some thinking and channel creativity, using donated blank Converse sneakers as their canvas. Finished designs will go on display at the Good Life March 5th from 4-8pm for a fundraiser - consider going if you're in town!

It never ceases to amaze me how a little creativity and kindness can cook together into something truly inspiring.

art of the title sequence

2011-02-11T13:46:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, it's easy to forget about the title sequence in a movie when it's all over. But think about - you're sitting in a theatre, the lights go dark and the movie starts. Words begin to crawl on the screen. Don't you get a tiny bit of thrill? What's going to happen? Am I going to like this movie? The title sequence is your first taste to answer these questions. It sets the tone for the whole movie.

If you're digging what I'm saying, check out this website: Art of the Title. It highlights title sequences that are simply awesome. Artistic, creative, simple, beautiful. You'll want to go to their site and watch a few.

(blue valentine)

(any human heart)

(days of heaven)

soup du jour

2011-02-10T13:57:00.000-05:00

LOVE making and eating soup in the winter. So easy, so delicious. I am currently enjoying a batch inspired by Rachael Ray's Mean Green Tortilla Soup. I say inspired because I don't really follow her recipe to a T. I add more broth and instead of the spicy mumbo, jumbo, I just buy a jar of tomatillo salsa and add that and screw de-kerneling corn - I just throw in a frozen bag.

(a spicy winter delight)

This month, Real Simple has an article with recipes for 5 Quick Soups.

(Bean & Chicken Sausage Stew)

(Thai Red Curry Soup)

(Fisherman's Stew)

(Sweet Pea & Mint Soup)

(Scallion and Potato Soup)

They're so easy you could more or less memorize them or do your own take on them. A little soup inspiration to get you through the winter. I'm going to take a stab at the scallion and potato...mmmm.

"go be with your people"

2011-02-09T16:18:00.000-05:00

A bit of a sad post... tragedy struck our office as we learned that a coworker's son was in a car accident and it's not looking good. It hit home a bit and the head of my department sent us home to "go be with our people." I couldn't help but think of my little brother as he is the same age as my coworker's son... it's too much to even think about.

(my main man, little brother evan)

I called my mom on my way home because I'm 3,000 miles from my family and that's the best way I can be with my own people.

But I realized a week from today I will be in Nicaragua with Little Sister and that is really a wonderful thing to think about. We're talking tonight to plan out our adventure...

(little sister and yours truly in Israel)

All this talk about love lately and the importance of the relationships in my life are really coming to light. So this week, go be with your people. While my family might be far away, I really have great people here in Boston. Thank you to those that are them. And pray for my coworker and his family.

I'll be back tomorrow with something peppier.

st. valentine inspired goodies

2011-02-07T12:29:00.000-05:00

It's only 1 week until that holiday you love or hate (and I love it - how can you not want to celebrate love, in whatever form?). It seems as if everyone is in the spirit this year, though. Bake some heart shaped cookies, enjoy those lovely Dove chocolate hearts and send out a card or two. I've noticed Etsy certainly feels the love, so here are some St. Valentine inspired goods to get you in the spirit.

(brass arrow necklace from three birds designs)

(blue arrow cocktail ring from with care)

(vintage heart-shaped padlock from the id connection)

(heart picks, for terrariums, cupcakes or whatever from Teresa's Plants & More Store)

(in love with this set of love lobsters cards from hello hello design)

(burlap LOVE banner by white house black cat)

(cozy unisex infinity scarf from vintage dutch girl)

(unexpected print by fifi du vie)

away I go again

2011-01-28T16:07:00.000-05:00

Off to San Francisco this weekend! But instead of taking off for work, I'm taking off with my roommate to see two of our dearest friends from college for a long-overdue girl's weekend. We're planning on seeing some sites, wandering around time, drinking some wine in Napa and laughing so much it hurts. Can't wait! Maybe you should call your best friend this weekend from college to just say, "what's up, girlfriend?"

(been too long, ladies)

boston spot: back bay social club

2011-01-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

New to town a year ago, Back Bay Social Club has quickly warmed to me and become my go-to Boston spot. I had my birthday here and it was fabulous - great space downstairs, fun cocktails, friendly staff. It's great for anything - dinner when the fam comes to town, happy hour on the patio, brunch with the girls, a night out for trouble. It's warm, welcoming, the food is ohmygosh and I can't say enough good things about it.

They also have awesome cocktail events and parties all the time. Up next? A Guinness beer dinner - 4 courses made from local ingredients and paired with delicious beer. Get your tickets here.

a friend photographs CA

2011-01-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

Nice photos by my friend Chris Bone from his trip to Venice Beach, CA. Definitely captures the essence of this beach city.

utah by the numbers

2011-01-26T19:37:00.001-05:00

Mormon churches spotted: 46 (& 5 temples)
Religious billboards seen on my freeway travels: 9
Billboards advertising plastic surgery: 11 (shocked about more of the latter)
Billboards depicting brides I think could have been children: 4
LDS Missionaries spotted: 11
Polygamists spotted: 0 (drat!)
Witnessed drug busts: 1
Average temperature: 41 (a-mazing)
In-N-Out consumptions: 2
Average hours worked each day: 13

(had some time so walked around Temple Square because I was curious, but the place gave me the heebie-jeebies and I quickly high-tailed it outta there and beelined it for a Starbucks to enjoy a caffeinated beverage the way God intended)

please excuse...

2011-01-20T12:26:00.000-05:00

...the probable lack of posts for the next week. I'm traveling for work a whole ton and all over for a week. I'll do my best, though!

(au revoir!)

rebecca minkoff on swirl

2011-01-18T11:06:00.001-05:00

There are some crazy cute bags today on Swirl by Rebecca Minkoff. Swirl is the retail baby of Daily Candy, and it's essentially a new online sample sale every day of great fashion at least 50% off. I bought a stellar pair of jeans off the site last week. Now I need to resist a new bag...

bajiggity weekend

2011-01-14T17:53:00.000-05:00

I'm antsy - let's get this weekend started. Friends to be with, pampering to do and magic to happen. I can't believe my good friend is moving to London this weekend for two whole years. Cheerio, Lauren! I'll miss you more than I can begin to fathom, but I can't wait to visit!

snowboot crush

2011-01-14T17:40:00.000-05:00

I have no idea how I lived in Boston before I bought my Sorel Joan of Artic boots last winter. Living in them. The tan is discontinued, but get them at The Tannery in brown or black.

music recommendation: punch brothers

2011-01-14T12:30:00.001-05:00

Last night I went to see rockin' bluegrass band Punch Brothers at the Somerville Theatre. A mixed crowd of bearded hipsters and old folks were serenaded by front man Chris Thile and his group of crazy-good string musicians. Great energy and great music. Check out a live performance of their barn-burning single "Rye Whiskey" off their latest album, Antifogmatic:

Check out all their quiet and explosive tunes on both their albums: