handiwork

New Blog Site for HandiworkIt

2011-11-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

Hello Loyal Reader(s)! I am excited to say that I have finally made the move to Wordpress for my blogging. It took me forever to 1.think about moving the blog, 2. look into the details, 3. decide it was too much work, 4. wait 6 months until it kept bugging me, 5. do more research and find it easier that I thought and finally, 6. start the new blog.

From now on, I will be writing (more) frequently about life over at IndustriousLily.wordpress.com..
I was able to migrate all my old posts and comments to the new blog, which is awesome.
So come on over and check it out!!!

First new post: Little Oranges Studio Sale Update...

Thanks for reading here and I hope that you will follow me over to the new spot.
Best! Emily

Pasadena in Plein Air

2011-10-23T20:56:00.000-07:00

Last week, on my usual round of vintage shopping, I ran across a painting that was quite a find. It was a small but beautiful plein air landscape painting. Signed by Vic Riseau and featuring the California poppies that I love, I was sold.This find prompted a little online research, where I learned more about Pasadena's long and rich history in the California plein air painting movement. This being one of my favorite styles of painting, I was excited to find that the California Art Club was hosting an event at, and in support of, La Casita del Arroyo (another local treasure) and I knew I had to go.

There were many talented painters selling pieces that they had done over the previous week in an intensive group painting initiative in support of the Arroyo and La Casita itself. As I walked past the wonderfully inspiring artists and their work, I came across the beautifully abstract paintings of Eric Merrell. His work is plein air painting with a touch of impressionism that makes his work stand apart from the rest. His use of color and light is refreshing and youthful. I am not a fine artist, but I appreciate those who have so much talent.

Above and below are a couple of his Arroyo paintings, from his blog, and it is worth looking at his site as well to see the breadth of his work. I hope to see more of it in person again soon....

Studio Sale Time!!!

2011-10-17T22:14:00.000-07:00

Studio Sale is coming soon!!!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, Nov. 12 from 1-4pm.
Tons to buy- details coming soon :)

Fourth of July!

2011-08-02T09:44:00.000-07:00

We had great friends over for July 4th- it was a wonderful evening! What's even more wonderful??! Molly's amazing photos...Thanks, friend, for capturing the time together on film. Love it all!!!! Check out her photos here.

Americana!

2011-07-06T21:28:00.000-07:00

Hello all! I hope that you had a wonderful weekend celebrating our nation's independence! We had a great time. We have had some of our good friends staying with us and the time has flown by (boo!). One of the highlights for our Fourth of July was the local parade. Wonderful!!!! Our little city of Sierra Madre goes all out for the weekend and the parade is no exception. I literally cannot post all the shots I took of the parade and couldn't choose favorites, so I settled on the John Deere tractor above (which was one of like 20!)- wonderful! Highlights of the parade included: classic cars carrying various mayors, city council members and (my favorite) Hometown Hero, a giant inflated triceratops, marching bands, the Flintstone mobile, military trucks and soldiers, at least two All-Star Little League champion teams, a belly dancer dressed as Lady Liberty, the Shriners and their awesome mini mobiles, many many fire trucks, local cheer squad, the Peace Corps, many Ford Model T's and a pack-horse train.....I think that was it. Did I miss anything else?
Anyhoo, it was wonderful! God Bless America!

Guilty pleasure...

2011-06-24T09:38:00.000-07:00

Yeah, we are not what you would call country folks, and we are not really known to cowboy up for anything....but this movie was fun. Country Strong is a little cheesy, a little sad, somewhat melodramatic, a good bit entertaining, fairly predictable.....but not terrible. Enjoyable enough that we may have purchased some of the songs on our last iTunes shopping spree... Beau (Garrett Hedlund) and Chiles (Leighton Meester in a very un-Gossip Girl turn) were great and can actually sing. Anyway, if you feel like getting a little bit country, this is your ticket.

Fency Pants!

2011-06-18T21:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, terrible pun: but still a very fun project. Check it out on our "house" blog. Yay for long summer days with more time to work after, well, work.

A blanket of purple...

2011-06-18T20:11:00.000-07:00

We are fortunate to be in the midst of a consistent sprinkling of small purple blossoms right now. Our street has many jacarandas and one of the oldest is right in front of our house. It has been a joy to watch the shades of periwinkle, pale blue and lavender fall and leave a cloak of color on our lawn and walks.....wonderful (sticky, but wonderful!!!!).

simple, perfect evening

2011-05-31T23:15:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend is full of plans and parties, sometimes so many it seems like too much. You just want to stay home in the hammock. But spending time with friends is one of the best things in life, I think. Good friends had a get together recently that was wonderfully easy and effortless- despite the hostess' impending due date! Style, grace and laughter made the night one that I'll remember for a long while...

Night Lights

2011-05-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had drinks after work with A at LACMA and I was able to see this art installation in person. Artist Chris Burden restored over 200 lamp posts and they have been creating luminary magic for patrons and passersby ever since. For reference they have been in films like that other Natalie Portman movie, where they were the pivotal spot for a romantic confession. And, in a confession of my own, I have to admit that it is a truly engaging space to move through- like a forest of light in the middle of the city. And we weren't alone- there were at least two couples getting engagement photos taken- just saying.

Cleaning Thrift Art

2011-05-18T20:31:00.000-07:00

Oh, the treasures that can be found at Salvation Army....Love it! I found this simple, but sweet, vintage painting...unfortunately, it's previous life was in a smokier home than ours. What to do? I was not sure how to clean away the brown haze that years of tobacco smoke had left. But never fear!!! Laure had a great idea- Magic Eraser! Apparently approved for vintage pieces, like Nelson pendants, that have also escaped the flames, but not the smoke. So last weekend, I broke out the cleaning supplies (damp magic eraser & dry paper towel) and engaged in an intense 3 minutes of cleaning- the result was amazing!!! I wish I had taken a before photo, but people look at the sponge and towel- they give you an idea. So now you know! Don't be afraid of a little smoky haze.... (disclaimer: the painting was not expensive or of personal significance, so I took the chance. If you are looking at cleaning a more important piece, consult a professional!)

Happy Easter

2011-04-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

I hope that you all had a great Easter! Christ is risen indeed! We were more home-bound than planned, as Manish was sick all weekend. But the upside was a great day in the kitchen and wonderful church services.....
(in case you are wondering what has his attention so fixed, it is our favorite 4-year old Canadian, Caillou....)

Backyard days

2011-04-17T13:12:00.001-07:00

The weather has been warm and amazing the last few days. We joke that if summer was like this we cut handle it....ahhhh, but for now we are just enjoying the relaxing time.

Spring Cleaning...

2011-04-15T18:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true! I have restocked Industrious Lily with lots of spring goods. This is due mostly in part to the major cleaning efforts at the studio- whew! So enjoy the benefits of the organization efforts...Happy Spring everyone!

print fun!

2011-04-14T22:05:00.001-07:00

Finally printed out some more of the posters that I designed last fall- hooray! If you are looking for fun, colorful pieces- these fit the bill. They should be up on Etsy in the next day or two....Fun times!!!

Get these now!

2011-04-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to post about Jill's journals since I bought them at Target like 2 weeks ago- argh! Anyway, they are awesome! For her sake, I hope that they are all sold out, every last one...but for your sake, I hope there are a couple left under all the Hello Kitty and Transformers folders in the notebook aisle.

(super-awesome poppies! Laure's post today reminded me of these- spring beauties!)

Jill's journals are a staple in my paper collection and have been for years, so I wasn't sure how the big box versions would be, but they are super great! The line work is beautifuland the grid paper is great- get's me planning. Hooray!!!! Perfect for gifts (or keeping) or both!(super nifty grids- already in use)

So now you have an excuse to wander down the paper aisle next time you are shopping at the bullseye. And if you aren't familiar with Jill's work, it is really beautiful and her blog is a great mix of everyday living, artistic inspiration and interesting ideas....

Succulent Ups and Downs

2011-04-11T21:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I love my little succulents, and thought I'm no expert, I have enjoyed them in our home for years without killing (all) of them. But now, we are planting them outside, working with cuttings and doing more arrangements as well. So, the limitations of my (super-minimal) skills are beginning to show. So help me if you can!!!!

Question 1: Why did my little cutting die? Two lived and flourished, one totally collapsed (below, on right)- thoughts?Question 2: What do you plant indoor succulents in, material-wise, potting soil or mulch or both? Rocks on top or no? Holes for drainage (are those really necessary)?Thanks for your help! Hopefully these guys will make it. Their predecessors just got planted outside, so something is going right.....Happy planting, everyone! (more to come on outdoor planting adventures soon!)

paper days

2011-04-06T21:11:00.000-07:00

It is nice to have a "real" job- for sure. I love it and I am thankful to be able to help pay the bills. But sometimes I miss the world of paper and patterns.....

Mt. Washington

2011-04-04T22:27:00.000-07:00

So, is it a little sad that I have lived in LA for almost 12 years now (how is that even possible?) and I just visited Mt. Washington for the first time last week? Even more weird, when you consider that my commute takes me right by it on the 110 four days a week. Anyway, enough self-bullying. I have been there and I will return! It was beautiful, quiet, winding and has amazing views. Love the nature surrounding the homes (especially my friend's place)...like a getaway from all the hustle. So, now I know (yep, late to the game for sure).

Book Probation

2011-04-04T21:17:00.000-07:00

Argh! Too many books!!! Am I the only person with this problem? I mean, I am pretty sure that there are lots of book hoarders out there, but how many of them are in their 30's? I picture more professorial types.....But really, books (especially old ones) are beautiful. They were made in a time when the printed word was a primary source of information and entertainment. And maybe that's the printer side of me- that I love these books so much, their spines, covers, illustrations.....love it all! And what if there is like a cultural meltdown someday and I have to rely on our own library to educate our family? (ok, not a likely scenario but still...... who can resist Shakespeare or Melville?)....But it has gone too far ("LOGIC MACHINES & DIAGRAMS", anyone?). Now I am on book probation for the near future. (past probations include pottery, plate sets, vases and danish modern credenzas) But that's ok, there are lots of other things to do- like knit a blanket or start playing guitar (again).

sweet tangerine marmalade

2011-02-28T22:22:00.000-08:00

I have always been a jelly or jam person (or nutella?), but haven't really spent much time with marmalades. Not sure why- they just seemed less exciting to me. Well, I have been missing out! Since we moved to Sierra Madre, we have been to our local jamery (?), E Waldo Ward, several times. There are so many things that I like from there, like their Quince Jelly and Cinnamon Apple Syrup.....but this Tangerine Marmalade is like a fresh burst in your mouth. Just so sweet and bright. If you are ever in Sierra Madre, you have to check out Wards- it is so worth it. I think I will do a little post on them later.....

Where have I been?

2011-02-25T21:21:00.000-08:00

Good night! I have been off the reservation for months. Well, I have been blogging, but mostly about work, where I have been busy designing under wraps for the past year. But now, all is out and open and so I can show you. We just officially launched the website this past weekend and it has been a great to finally be able to talk and share all about the fun things that I have been able to work on. It is good to be back!!!

This Bungalow Life

2010-08-11T00:49:00.000-07:00

Hi all! In case you were wondering where I have been, we have been working away on our new house- fun! And.....we're keeping updates posted on it at our little house blog, This Bungalow Life. It will be full of all the fun and goodness and, probably, a little fatigue that will come with this home renovation....We are thankful to be blessed with this gift and want to share...

A (new) place to call home

2010-07-13T22:07:00.000-07:00

Well, after weeks of keeping our mouths closed and praying alot, we finally closed escrow on our first house last Thursday! We are beyond excited and I can't say how much this means to us, seeing how far God has brought us from where we were this time 3 years ago. Those of you who know us, know the journey that we have had with Manish's cancer and it is just so amazing to see the Lord provide for us in such amazing ways over the years- through His love, encouragement, gifts and especially though the amazing friends and family that He has surrounded us with. Thanks to all of you who mean so much to us and have been and continue to be Christ to us. We love you!!!

Is it July?

2010-07-01T23:21:00.000-07:00

I love flowers...and I really, really love peonies.....especially when they get huge and fragrant. Have a happy Friday, friends!!!
Summer cards to post soon- fun!

Dream Car

2010-05-27T23:05:00.000-07:00

Today I saw my dream car in person. I have loved the Volvo 1800 Sport since I first saw one in 7th grade. Every morning, as I walked to my bus stop, I saw a cream sports coupe with leather interiors and I had never "loved" a car before that...but from that moment on I knew. I would dream of someday being an architect and driving around to meet clients in that car. Well, much of my life has been a dream come true, but this car is still elusive. I have talked with my husband about it over the years, saying I would love one in a warm french grey. Well, this morning we walked out of a meeting and there it was.....just as beautiful as I imagined it would be in person. Thankfully, he reminded me to take a picture.

Clear New Day

2010-05-25T12:22:00.001-07:00

Wow, again it has been soooo long since I have blogged. I am turning a new leaf today.....so cliche, right? But I have come to a point where I want to live in the day, in the moment where life is happening- in the Lord's hands. We have been thinking about lots of exciting things lately, like trying to buy a home, thinking of when we will try for another little one....lots on our minds.
Sometimes, you just need to relax and listen. "Be still, and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)

So I will be here, and maybe some of you are still reading and we can connect again! Let's see what each day has. (image from here)

Spring Awakening!

2010-03-18T21:27:00.000-07:00

I am back! Where have I been???? Really, November was my last post...really??? That's beyond ridiculous. period. no good excuses here. Just kind of working too much and not a lot of creative energy to put into the blog for a bit. All is well here and I intend to blog like it is, too!

Some of you may ask what could rouse me from a cozy winter slumber of non-blogging? Maybe the warmer weather, the clear(er) days...the promise of color and summer soon? yes, well, sort of....more like some good, colorful quilts and dresses...
just a little Liberty to wake me up!!!!

The Nature

2009-12-05T13:35:00.001-08:00

So, I know that there is nature in LA, people go there to hike and get in touch with themselves, but I just don't get there to much. And I have really wanted to go day hiking in the northwest, so I could see a different, greener, more dense type of forest and- wow- I was not disappointed. We went to Multnomah Falls, just across the Columbia River from Washington. I mean, really, all I kept saying to my friend was "wow, this is like a movie..."- it was surreal and beautiful- see for yourself... (yeah, in that picture below with the dime, look closely- those little white things are mushrooms! crazy!)

Portland Days

2009-12-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

I try to get away every November to do something fun and relaxing that isn't 100% related to work...just for a little break. A couple weeks ago, I went back to Portland to stay with my friend Jill...It was great, as always! I love going there- a little rain, some clouds, also some sun... some hail, too! We went all over town, to some shops (see Ink & Peat below) and, of course, lots of food- yum. This year, we had two goals- first was to use some of Jill's home-grown veggies to make pumpkin muffins and an amazing gratin with yams and Swiss Chard. The second goal was to see "The Nature"- that is a whole separate post, because it was so beautiful and amazing. I had a great time and love love love the Northwest- thanks Jill, as always, for making it great.

Idyllwild

2009-12-05T00:41:00.000-08:00

We went up to a cabin in Idyllwild with a group from church a couple weeks ago. It was amazingly beautiful- so much of the beauty of autumn. The cabin we stayed was also just perfect for the weekend- it had so many original items from years ago that I had to take some pictures...

tiny prints holidays

2009-10-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

For the last year or so, we have been happily working with tiny prints on everyday baby announcements, wedding invites and now Holiday cards! If you are looking for great quality & prices, tp is the way to go....check out some of our designs here. (p.s.: If we know you personally, there is a chance that your name may show up on a sample design image, now and then!)

b(re)aking all the rules

2009-10-10T21:00:00.001-07:00

so, I don't think it's wrong, or even particularly weird.....but I made chocolate chip cookies with almonds today, not raisins (which I am not crazy about anyway) or the usual walnuts....
I am not sure if it is common and I am just unaware (which wouldn't surprise me), but it is great! A little more crunchy than soft, and also a little saltier (using dry-roasted almonds- be careful with them....)

New sofa pillows!

2009-10-10T14:41:00.001-07:00

We have been wanting some new pillows for our sofa for awhile. Finally, the man came around to the idea and so we looked for a bit.....until we found these great pillow covers from kalla design. Hitomi is in Japan and her hand-screening of these designs is amazing....we are so glad to have them! We love knowing where they came from and who made them, a little history while we nap!

studio shots

2009-10-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some shots I took last week, around the studio. We are busy bees trying to get all the Holiday goods out and start on the new spring stuff (so hard to think about when it is just finally starting to feel like Fall!)....

A sweet escape

2009-08-29T21:34:00.000-07:00

We just got back a few days ago from an amazing trip to Costa Rica. It was super beautiful and relaxing- we had a wonderful time! And since we went with friends who visit there every summer, we had some great hosts! And their daughter and our son had a super great time....It is an amazing country, with beautiful natural features, warm people and great iguanas! If you get the chance to go, take it- you will love it!

new eyeglasses

2009-08-09T20:31:00.001-07:00

Coming soon to a face near you! Well, near me anyway....It is way past time to have some updated glasses- lenses and frames....I just kept putting it off. Finally, I had to go for it. Found these on Ebay and there is this great new feature called "Make an Offer." Basically, you can send the seller your price (a la Priceline) and they will let you know if it is accepted. Anyhoo, these were a steal of a deal!!!! Hooray! (below are the runners-up...all lovely!)

room to dream

2009-08-03T17:23:00.000-07:00

Wow, this room is just so perfect for me. It is clean, modern- yet warm, friendly and inviting (like the golden!) I love the work area which is also a perfect place to sit and chat or read in the afternoon with a cup of coffee....dream for a Monday afternoon...(found the photo here).

where have I been?

2009-08-03T15:08:00.000-07:00

Gosh, it has been too long! I wish I could say that I have been doing really important work or having the most amazing summer ever, but....the reality is much more normal. I have been working and playing and just generally feeling the lack of desire to blog about my lack of desire to do much productive at all....So to you faithful blog-checkers- I am sorry! Creative blog posts begin again in earnest this evening, I think.....

etsy love

2009-07-02T13:15:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say that there is so much good stuff on etsy- like way too much!!! I just did this little treasury list about great things to have in your workplace....check it out- maybe it will help you get over the Thursday bump and into the weekend a little early!

"The Perfect Pack"

2009-06-30T10:43:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I have just finished my first go at the little custom stationery sets that I make from time to time. Now, they can be specified easily, packaged prettily and sent to someone special (or just straight to you!) You can see them in more detail in my etsy shop...
( you can view the detail sheets above by clicking on the images )
There are two sheets that show all the different options of greeting cards, note set combos, note pads, gift tags and enclosure cards that make up a complete set in the end. It is fun and easy (and pretty darn affordable- practically wholesale prices- woohoo!)....enjoy!

something new

2009-06-29T14:47:00.000-07:00

This week I am working in something new. Putting together a little system to order those custom gifts I was talking about a bit ago....they are coming along well and I will post details once it is a little more tidy!

Giveaway Gifts!

2009-06-27T13:14:00.001-07:00

Whew! After way too long, I am finally sending out the first giveaway gifts- hooray! I think that they are fun and bright- just right for summer...Enjoy!

Beautiful Norway

2009-06-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

My good friend Molly has been abroad this past year with her family. She has just returned (woohoo!) but went to Norway just before coming back and is sharing these wonderful photos...Enjoy! There are also some a.mazing photos of their time in Rome....love it all!

New Folding Notes

2009-06-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

Here is a little peak at some new notes I am working on....The are letterpress folded notes, featuring illustrations that are part of my Handiwork line....Fun, simple, easy to use....And going into the giveaway gifts!

new (vintage) canisters

2009-06-18T09:38:00.000-07:00

I was meeting with a client weeks ago and we were talking about what she wanted to do, interior-wise, and the topic moved to her various vintage pieces and how to showcase them. And she has these amazing old green canisters that she inherited from her grandmother. Just lovely....But she wasn't sure of the maker or any specifics of it.....So after weeks of scouring ebay and etsy and various online vintage shops- I found them (in Alabama....)! Ransburg canisters, circa 1940, and in RED.....meant to be. They aren't perfect, but to me they are....

I want to go there....

2009-06-13T22:43:00.000-07:00

....as Liz Lemon would say. This is a beautiful home in La Jolla by Loch Crane. Someday......somehow.....the modernist's dream.

gifts of goodness

2009-06-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

I love it when friends call and want to do custom gifts for friends....Often it is something like "I need to give a thank you gift to a friend who has been carpooling my daughter for a year now. Can you put a little gift set of stationery together?"...and I love to do those things! I may even start selling little sets in my shop, so they are ready to go when the call comes!
Have a super weekend, everyone!

sprinklesaddict

2009-06-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I don't tweet myself, but sometimes follow others on Twitter....what did I find today? Sprinkles on Twitter- and you can get free cupcakes if you pay attention- so fun!!!! that's a sweet tweet for sure!

love "awkward'

2009-06-03T19:38:00.001-07:00

jen corace is great...love her art, color sense, illustrations....thinking about this piece....seriously.

perfect

2009-06-03T19:35:00.001-07:00

thank you, Lord, for beauty like this.....

Summer Sneak Peak

2009-06-03T11:09:00.000-07:00

happy june!
just wanted to post a couple images of what we are working on for this summer...new for your desk and great for all you technophiles out there. enjoy!

Rowhomes

2009-05-29T16:47:00.000-07:00

Been a little busy lately and just keep meaning to post and not getting around to it....Anyway, this weekend I am going to try to get some houses up in the shop, so that should be fun!
Have a great weekend!

Beautiful Intersections

2009-05-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

It seems to me that lately we have been going through a lot of intersections in our life. Sometimes smoothly through on a green, sometimes tenatively on a changing yellow...and sometimes there is a brilliant red pause. I love the work of Grant Haffner for just that reason. There is a calm contemplation in some of his pieces, and bright flurries in others....I found his work on Leah Giberson's blog. I feel like her work appeals to me in the same way- still, contemplative, but also clear and somehow optimistic in its simplicity.

I love looking at her work in our home- maybe because I have always loved buildings, but also because it is like an emotional time-out, which we all need as we speed through life....

perfect lampshade

2009-05-15T13:35:00.000-07:00

Is this just beautiful? Made from vintage 70's French wallpaper and repurposed into great pieces like this shade. You have to check out this Italian shop drawflowers on Etsy....love it all!

Friday Afternoon Fix

2009-05-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! Sometimes it is hard to get down to hard work decisions or fine design details on a Friday afternoon.....the thought of all the relaxation that awaits can overpower. What to do? Take a little break- 30 minutes to recharge!
For me, that means a cup of delicious Cardamom Tea and some time to write a note. And how much more enjoyable is it when you have a wonderful stamp to put on the envelope!!! This past Tuesday, I was at the post office mailing a house and needed some new stamps....I asked if they had any of the Flags of the States series left, but she said no- not since the postage went up....So I asked what they had...and there was the usual flag stamp. "um....anything else back there?"..."Well, we have these now...." and she placed these wonderful pieces of illustration on the counter. "Yes, please!"...

C A R D A M O M>T E A
(recipe is traditional Indian tea- this recipe is for two cups)
1 cup water
1 cup milk
2 tbsp black Assam tea
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp chai masala
1/2 tsp ground cardamom

In a saucepan, bring the water and tea to a rolling boil. Add the milk, sugar and spices- stir and then let simmer. When it is almost done, the tea will start to rise in a puff up towards the edge of the pan- the trick is to let it get as close to the top without overflowing- then it is ready!
Remove from heat and pour through little mesh sieve into cups and serve.

Great Weekend!

2009-05-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

What a fun weekend this was. Not too much in the way of travel or big deals going down...more a fun time of relaxation. Some highlights: got to bake, did some knitting, took a friend around town to see some old Neutra, Schindler and Ain houses, went to Heath Ceramics (which is where I got my Mother's Day gifts- hooray!), visited with some old friends, and saw Twilight and The Notebook for the first time- two different types of love stories- both great! Put Twilight in my "guility pleasures" file along with Hall & Oates and John Mayer...
Hope you all had a great weekend too!!!!

Henry Road Sale

2009-05-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday to you!
It is a happy day for me....I just shopped the online (and brick & mortar) sale that is going on- for 3 more days- at Henry Road. If you want awesome goods, locally made, at a great deal- this is it! I missed the sale last time around and told myself "not this time!"....

They have great fabrics, all original designs, and a wonderful, optimistic sensibility. Times are tight, but you can splurge when there are deals this good to be had. Enjoy!!!

Weekend in the country

2009-05-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, we were in Sonoma with friends and it was amazing. It was cloudy, a little rainy, some sun- beautiful green land and lichen...great food and friends- just wonderful and relaxing. We missed our little boy, but he had fun with the grandparents...

Heath Ceramics Studio Sale this weekend!

2009-05-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

So I am heading out of town for the the weekend, but I am so sad that I will be missing the annual studio sale at the Heath Ceramics studio and store on Beverly....There are great activities planned for Saturday and Sunday (and early bird sale starts today!)....check it out if you have time!

do you do this?

2009-04-24T17:13:00.000-07:00

I make lists of songs while I am working on my computer...If I hear something I like, I write it down quick....that way I can avoid the blank mind that can happen when Manish says "should we get some songs on iTunes today?"

I have changed...

2009-04-24T16:56:00.000-07:00

First of all, let me say that I know I am very late to the gardening bandwagon...or not even gardening, really, but keeping plants alive in your home..on purpose. My friend and roommate in college, Laurie, was always a plant lover....cared deeply for them- watered them, pruned them..talked to them (maybe?), was horrified and near tears when a rat caused near-fatal carnage to a small aloe plant. I was never that way...I was cut flowers type of girl. I liked the ease of picking them up and appreciating them in their prime- decorating with them, smelling them...and them tossing them out when they withered away....
And now, something strange has happened. I just had a list of ways to perk up the apartment and getting some small low-maintenance plants just happened to be on that list. Well, I eventually got three little plants- one for the bathroom, one for our room, and one for Dillan's room....
(meet the gang below)

Somehow, these little plants have inserted themselves not only into out living environment, but also in my heart- what??? How??? I don't know, but they're cute, they make me happy, they grow and they live for so long- if you water them and give them some love and sunshine....Wow! Who knew...all these years later, I know what Laurie was talking about...and you can change, sometimes without even intending to.

Gocco Fun!

2009-04-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you know about a little post I did over on the PoppyTalk Handmade Artists blog. If you haven't had the chance to read it yet, it is a great little spot to learn more from some really great independent artists and designers...so check it out!

My post was on Fun with Gocco! Just a little peak into what I do at work- fun!!
Have a great afternoon...

We're Still In It!!!!

2009-04-21T22:18:00.000-07:00

So I am super excited to say that we have made it to the next round of Apartment Therapy's Small Cool 2009 Showdown- yay!!!!

Our apartment is called "Emily's Courtyard Musical"...

Now we need your VOTE!!!! So please check out the voting page here and then tell your friends, family, coworkers, fellow bloggers....you get the idea!!!

1.Each person can only vote once, and
2.the voting is only open for 24 hours- so spread the word quickly.....

And, again, we couldn't have made it this far without your support, so keep it up and we'll see how far we can go- yay!!!!!

new tote

2009-04-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

Last week I was shopping for something for a friend and the budget was tight, so I was at Target looking around....That's when I saw something I just wanted to so bad. Does that happen to you? You know you should be looking for someone else, but you are just so stoked that you found something when you weren't expecting to. So that is how it was with this new tote.
However, let me say, that this purchase was not without some internal conflict. First, it is mass-produced overseas. That is not great. I really want to buy from people and companies that I know and want to support. Next dilemna- this bag bears an uncanny resemblance to Hable Construction's Tote No. 5. That is also a problem...I love Hable- I own, well, more than one of their bags- we'll just leave it at that. So I feel like "argh! don't get this bag...just save up for another "real" bag)...But, the No. 5 is not currently available (just checked)...so.....

And this bag was cute- it's pattern was lovely- the color, well that's what sold me- the vermillion orange-red is awesome. Oh, and did I mention that it was on sale for $9.99- yeah, so basically I got it and am still saving for a real tote soon....

Winners!

2009-04-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

There are 18 winners for my first giveaway! Thanks for the great comments and there will be more giveaways soon....
Okay, so here are the names of the winners:

Victoria
amwhiteh
Molly W.
kellyry
Sarah S
jen
Candy
Candied Fabrics
ikkinlala
celestefrittata
Karine
Karen
misselty
Miss Reglisse (Lola)
Zoe
julie gravelle
Dutchess
Jaqui

Please email me at: emily (underscore) desai at hotmail dot com, with your mailing address and we will get the goodies out in the next week. Thanks again!!!!

new spring crop

2009-04-13T19:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I would love to farm- on a small scale- with lots of herbs and vegetables and flowers. But living in an apartment leaves a little to be desired in the land part of the "tilling the land" equation. I have contemplated a raised garden, and may still do that, but for now- I will just harvest some handmade tomatoes..courtesy of the patterns featured a while back in Martha Stewart Living....They are fun and easy and make happy additions to many spots in the home...And they are a great use of smaller pieces of fabric scraps that you may have around-try harvesting some of your own!

Happy Easter

2009-04-10T14:59:00.000-07:00

Hello friends!
Just a post to say Happy Easter- He is Risen! I am thankful to be able to spend this weekend with my family and I hope that you are all able to celebrate the new life and hope we all have in Him!
(image is from molly's blog- somewhere in Ireland....)

VOTE NOW for our place on Apartment Therapy!

2009-04-08T14:10:00.001-07:00

Hi All!
Our apartment is up for votes on Apartment Therapy's Small Cool 2009 home competion...So if you get a chance please vote for for it!!!! Voting is only open for 48 hours, so the sooner the better!! Thanks a million! Pass it on...

Vintage Saturday: Yellow

2009-04-07T20:38:00.000-07:00

I try to get out at least once a week to go thrifting. Usually it is just one or two spots here in Pasadena, and sometimes I get lucky, sometimes I don't find a thing....But you know what? I like to get out there and just look, no matter what I come home with. I was recently on thrift "probation" after I came home with three different sets of plates in one weekend...hmmm...

This last weekend, I was happy with the finds that I came home with. And it also fell in line with a strange habit I have of ending up with a whole little set of items in the same color story without meaning to at all....it just happens. So this time it was yellow, I think, and I also love the economics of vintage goods, too.....I found a creamer, gravy boat, classic mid-century pot, 2 melmac-style cups, and my favorite- two vintage tea cups and a saucer marker "AZTEC Johnson Bros"...I looked all over and can't find any info on them....I just wonder how old they are? They seem like 20's or 30's....Anyway, now I need to find some room for them all....oh yeah, and all that for under $9!

sugar hill

2009-04-06T15:56:00.000-07:00

Doesn't this just look like a dream? My good friend Molly has this great blog where she posts her photos and thoughts while she is living in Ireland and traveling a bit. This is a photo of her little girl in the spring grass and flowers of Limerick.

These photos so remind me of when I lived in Paris and I just love it....Some of her prints are available on Etsy...so check them out. And be sure to keep up with her posts, too..

Sunday Baking: Brownies

2009-04-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

I was feeling the need for a good brownie this weekend, especially after I saw a post about it over at Bash!....I don't have the BAKED cookbook yet (it's still in the shopping cart) and so I decided to go with the Perfect Brownies recipe from Martha Stewart... I have to be honest, the only thing I really stick to on that recipe, though, are the ingredients- everything else I have mixed up.

Here is how I do it: Melt chocolate and butter together, add brown sugar, wait until cool, add eggs (use all 3), beat until smooth, add flour and baking powder- mix until just combined- pour in 9x9 greased+floured pan, bake for 45 minutes....though I start checking at 40 minutes and try not to overcook it. Here is the important part- just like the other BAKED and Bash! comments- you have to let the brownies sit for a good amount of time (I baked the brownies Saturday evening and cut them Sunday mid-morning.....it requires patience, but it is worth it! CAUTION: These brownies are so rich that you really can't have more than like a 1 1/2" x 2" piece in a sitting- and I love sweets, so that says something..And, yeah, no nuts in my brownies either!

what cuteness is this???

2009-04-04T18:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, so weekends are made for baking- just like the weekdays are made for workin'....And look what I saw on Etsy today- ooooooooooohhhhh- I love these!!!!

Molly, if you are reading this, think of all the themed photos and parties you could have with these amazing cupcake holders. I found them on LayerCakeShop's Etsy shop......I just can't wait to get some....I just have to narrow down my selections, because there ain't no way in heck that I can rationalize ordering over 500 cupcake liners, which is where I am right now.....hmmmm......enjoy!

oh, i want them....

2009-04-03T15:54:00.000-07:00

So this is the end of a week full of protein and self-restraint.....and I want a cupcake! Specifically the Sprinkles chocolate cupcake with vanilla bean frosting covered in chocolate sprinkles....soon you will be mine!

New Houses up in the shop!

2009-04-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

Happy times! I have just finished a few houses and put them up in the shop....What is fun now is that I am going to try to start working with more colors for the glazes. I will keep you all posted! Also, I have tried my hand at little bowls, which are really fun!

love these happy shelves

2009-04-01T23:21:00.000-07:00

I was puttering around online last night and saw these great shelves on athomeathome. The colors and the clean lines make me want to do a little project, but not a lot of time for that right now....and no room, either....but fun!

fun with glitter

2009-04-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

So, I love Michael's- it's a guilty pleasure- I clip my coupon for 40% off any one item, head on over and decide what to add to my craft arsenal. After some deliberation and several weeks of coupon trips, I accumulated a nice little glitter and stamp collection from the Martha Stewart Crafts line....I was unsure of how it would work out, but this is my first little attempt. I letterpressed small 4-bar cards and added my monogram in glitter to some...I think that I will be doing more of this when I have more time!

jill's art sale!

2009-03-30T12:14:00.000-07:00

I just got an email from my friend jill bliss. She is having a super-duper art sale right now online- just for 24 hours! Her goal is to raise money for her new paper goods line coming out soon....Pop over to her shop and see what catches your eye...

sunday night cookies

2009-03-29T19:56:00.001-07:00

So if you know me, you know that I love to bake....seriously...like at least once a week, probably twice. Now that we have a little guy and are more a "family" than the free-wheelin' couple we used to be, I feel the need to start incorporating traditions that will be memories for the years to come....And fun in the meantime!

So almost every Sunday afternoon, Dillan and I will bake something together (he pretty much sticks to mixing for now). Today it was cookies...the amazing Smitten Kitchen's "crispy chewy chocolate chip cookies." And it wasn't first time we made them, won't be the last. If you like food- at all- you should really check out her blog...amazing. Her process, photos, humor- all very fun...Enjoy!

made by hank

2009-03-28T11:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, so you may have already seen the awesome purses that Katie makes and sells in her etsy shop madebyhank, but these sweet little small purses are just the best!

The stiching and gathering on the front is whimsical and modern at the same time- the back is simple and fun, with the cool little tag that she adds. Each piece is hand sewn and there is a lot of care that goes into each of these little pieces. I also commissioned a bag from Katie a couple months ago and the awesomeness of that bag deserves its own post....but until then, happy Saturday!

the first giveaway

2009-03-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, so even though I haven't been blogging myself for awhile, I have still been reading blogs constantly. And one of my absolute favorite things about blogs are the giveaways! So, I think that it is only fair to do one here.....
It is pretty straight-forward. 50 readers who leave comments here on this post will get a free gift from Little Oranges....maybe notes, maybe bookmarks or a note pad. The great part is that 50 randomly-selected readers will get the goods- hooray!!! The deadline for this giveaway is midnight on Friday, April 3rd!

[P.S: THE GIVEAWAY HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL MONDAY, APRIL 6, AT MIDNIGHT, PST- SO LEAVE YOUR COMMENT BY THEN TO BE ENTERED]

floral notes in the shop

2009-03-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

I just added some new notes to the shop. They are small and sweet and just right for a spring addition to your stationery drawer...enjoy!

spring flowers

2009-03-25T09:56:00.000-07:00

I found this journal at Target the other day and snatched up 2 of them for friends' birthdays...Now I have the dilemma of wanting to keep one for myself....argh! They are part of Target's greenroom line of recycled paper goods...

i can only knit scarves

2009-03-23T20:43:00.001-07:00

Yes, it is true. I would love to knits booties for little feet or blankets to curl up with, but for now I can only knit long uniform scarves- knit or purl! I think that I am going to take a workshop at a little yarn shop in South Pasadena to break this comfortably numb state of yarncraft that I am in. Maybe a good book can help me- do you have any suggestions? Otherwise, friends and family, it will be years more of scarves in the color of your choosing....

paint-by-numbers

2009-03-23T20:29:00.000-07:00

The other weekend, I was out with friends and this little vintage painting caught their eyes...They knew I would love it and they were right. Gosh, I can't believe how much I ended up paying for a little 5 x 7 paint-by-numbers art piece, but it everything about it makes me happy. The colors are really unique and the way that the lines were left unpainted makes it look like a mosaic landscape, and the patina of age just touching the edges... it is like a little beach getaway for my mind....yes, I will take that anyday!

arranging candlesticks

2009-03-21T15:32:00.000-07:00

When my parents were moving last summer, my mom found these amazing candlestick arrangement holders and offered them to me. They were in their original box (can you appreciate the way they marketed these?) and never used. I put them in my candlestick drawer and waited.....Waited until the right pair of candlesticks came along. Well last week at Salvation Army, those candlesticks showed up and for $2.18 they were ready! I popped open that box, pulled out those mini-arrangement-holders and got to work...

The result was awesome! And the arrangement holders work well on their own, great with other candlesticks and perfectly with my vintage find- hooray!

been a long time...

2009-03-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

...since I, well not rock 'n' rolled, but paid attention to the blog. Almost two years, in fact...I'll spare the details. Long story short, I will be back posting and doing it a little differently.
There will be weekly postings on favorite recipes, new products out there, a weekly "vintage find" and just a lot of craftiness in general.
(the photo is of my sadly neglected Martin LXK2 guitar....I love it so!)

Saturdays~ Clean & Sweet

2007-03-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

It is Saturday and time to bake! There are few better ways to spend a morning (or afternoon) than mixing dry ingredients, spooning out cookies....smelling the sweet aroma while you...clean?

Yes, do something "good" while the cookies are in the oven and the guilt floats away~ organize your recycling or dust the living room and then you feel great~ for two reasons: you can sit down with a warm cookie and hot tea or cocoa and look at your dust-free credenza~ yay!

You can get the recipes for the cookies above at cookinglight.com (the Black & White Cake Cookies and the Cocoa Fudge Cookies) and thanks, as always, to MarthaStewart.com for the super great organized cleaning bucket~ in case your ready to get started!

Sweet Summer Shuffle

2007-03-20T18:43:00.000-07:00

Sometimes just hearing the right song can take you into the heart of summer. If you are looking for some sunshine in your music shuffle, try a little bit of Tristan Prettyman. Her album twentythree is just the fix you might need to get you off the lounge chair and onto the sand (even if it's just in your mind...). It does help that she is a native San Diego girl, too, but that's just a coincidence...really~

Classic Taste

2007-03-16T10:20:00.000-07:00

This place setting from Crate and Barrel's reproduction of the Classic Century line of porcelain is just wonderful~ it makes you want to go back and re-do your wedding registry from 6 years ago (hypothetically, of course!).... Below are the teapot and sauce bowl from the collection...so sweet.

Why not finish it off with the perfect around-the-whole-house apron, from Lotta Jansdotter....Her work is always so beautiful. And she has a great blog on her website, too, that shows you all sorts of fun things that are going on in her design life~ it is inspiring...take a look at jansdotter.com.

Coffee & Marshmallows

2007-03-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

This is a little follow-up to the ideal breakfast (of hot chocolate & a cupcake) posted below. Bialetti has come out with a super addition to its stove-top espresso maker collection. The beautiful little espresso maker above also has a compartment to steam your milk at the same time, giving you a beautiful capuccino with so little effort- grazie! You can find them online at sites like surlatable.com.

Top off your cappucino with these yummy handmade marshmallows from a local company, Little Flower Candy Co., which have been favorites around here for awhile! You can buy them online at littleflowercandyco.com. Hope this helps to give your day a happy kickstart.....caffeine & sugar have been known to do that I guess.

Cold Comfort...

2007-03-12T17:09:00.000-07:00

Well, today it is 93 degrees....in March. Some people are happy about that, some not so much. Either way, here is a vision of comfort for those of you are are too hot, too!

If, on the other coast, you are too cold.....here is some comfort for you. It seems like Macaroni & Cheese can just warm you right up from the inside out! enjoy....

Spring Cleaning...

2007-03-12T17:02:00.000-07:00

This time of the year is when it really seems like things are ready to be shaken out, scrubbed and either trucked off to Goodwill or tucked back into their appointed places....In the midst of this frenzy of organization and tidyness, here is a fun way to stay clean this spring. Thanks (again) to Martha Stewart for the fun homemade soap recipes on the website~ add your own flavor, color, exfoliant (if you dare!) and celebrate the spring with your own crafty hands!

This is breakfast...

2007-03-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

This is a breakfast option that is offered at Sprinkles Cupcakes here in Los Angeles.....It just seems so yummy and the fact that it is, in fact, on the breakfast menu means that you should feel little or no guilt when consuming it. After all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, right?

Ready.....Desk.....GO!

2007-03-06T19:56:00.000-08:00

A new project for the month of March....By the end of the month, have a desk that is functional! Let's see how it goes. To inspire you, here are some wonderful things that go on or in your desk~ enjoy! (p.s. this is not my desk, yet.....but you can get it at dwr.com)

This POCKET book (from Lovely Design, in Canada) is just perfect for jotting to-do lists in, or just for sittin' pretty on your desktop.

This is just about the coolest rolodex out there. So if you need one, like seriously need one, this is it....It makes you happy to look up your plumber's number after all. (also from Lovely Design)

Friday a la Francaise

2007-03-01T22:46:00.000-08:00

Look how cute these macaroons are! Sweet and pretty, too. These small little almond cookies are just amazing, although they require a little bit of effort. (The recipe is from Martha Stewart's Baking Handbook....a super find!) Mix up the colors or flavors to meet your needs and these petite cookies will shine!

Speaking of shining, these glitter spatulas from Le Creuset are so much fun to use! It used to be that all kitchen utensils were only useful, but now they are just too inspiring (as if you need another reason to bake!).

This year is the year!

2007-02-28T20:14:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you forget a birthday~ it happens to the best of us. But lately there have been a few too many belated wishes going out to those who are near and dear! What's a girl to do? How about take a page out of this notebook (courtesy of MarthaStewart.com) . Make your own "birthday binder" so you can just put all those embarassing late cards behind you and actually say "Happy Birthday!" instead of "I'm soooooo sorry!"....Show them you care~ on time! That is one change you can make this year that will last for years to come.

Tripped Up

2007-02-25T16:09:00.000-08:00

Gosh, it seems like summer is on the way already. Okay, maybe not summer, but spring is definately knocking right now. In that vein, these little items might make you want to take a trip! The hat above (from Hable Construction) makes you want to sit on a beach with a good book and just let it all go....

This bag would also work for a tropical getaway... It is just right~ the blue says relax already...

And finally, if you can't go on a trip can you have this wallet? Even paying for gas (ouch!) would seem fun if your cards were in this cutie! (both from Orla Keily)....Little things like bags, hats and wallets may seem trivial to lots of people....perhaps, but every once in awhile it is fun to play trivial pursuit!

why the heck not!

2007-02-24T16:58:00.000-08:00

today I decided to start this little blog. a little late, a little short, a lot to learn...but what the hey! i figure i spend time doing little things like making tiny cupcakes or sewing little bags for my cell phone- useless use of my time. but no! i think that it is fun! it makes me happy...

this will be my spot for sharing what makes me smile, laugh, hungry....you get it.

the first thing that i had to post about are cupcakes. yes, they are everywhere....but they should be, darn it! they are the best....so enjoy this vision of yumminess from Cupcake Mama in Portland, OR (via Cupcakes take the Cake). it is just right for a saturday afternoon....or sunday morning, wednesday night....