snippets of trish

S & K Wedding Moodboard Credits

2011-04-13T15:01:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are the credits to those selections in the wedding moodboard.

Row 1: Sunset Photo (source unknown, found via Shelly,) Drop Waist Gown from David's Bridal, Damask Menu Card from The Knot.
Row 2: Purple Runner Table Setting from The Knot, Lamar & Khloe Wedding Logo, Orchid Boutonniere
Row 3: Floating Orchid & River Rock Centerpieces, J.Crew Dress, Purple Bouquet (source unkown,) Sea Shells & Sand Centerpieces.
Row 4: Sea Urchin Table Decor, Save-The-Date Postcard from Best Destination Wedding forum, Surfboard Cookies by Creative Creations

My Poor Neglected Blog!

2011-04-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

My apologies for disappearing from the blogsphere this past month!

I've actually been on my twitter, @snippetsoftrish ALOT, so follow me there for my snippets on Chi-town living.

There are a couple of projects in the works, which include helping my sister plan her November wedding:
The moodboard I put together to get some theme direction.
*Will post credits in a separate blog entry.

And some freelance design work:
Napkin logo sketches for my aunt's company

I had my first green beer for St. Patrick's Day:

An awesome time celebrating a friend's birthday with pizza & beer (and cupcakes):

And am generally enjoying city-living:
The 'silver jellibean' on a bright COLD day.

I will try to keep posting the fashion snippets regularly. Up until about last week, the Midwest was not warming up at all for spring and I really did have this get-up everyday (I actually have it on today, too!)

These are really the only 'fashion' pictures I've taken the past couple of weeks:

Showing off my 'superhero'-ish belt...

Wanting to wear Mardi Gras beads on Fat Tuesday as my 'statement necklace'

Basically if I'm not working a night shift, I'm sweating away at my local X-Sport. It's keeps me busy while N is away and I might as well get into (some trimmer slimmer) shape.

There are more things in the works for me but this was good update on getting everyone up to speed on where I've been this entire time. I will definitely be posting again soon!

Phat Tuesday!

2011-03-10T19:11:00.000-08:00

I went down to Mobile, AL last weekend for N's agency annual Mardi Gras family & friends party. This southern town really knows how to celebrate this holiday the right way... and next year I'm definitely staying until Fat Tuesday!

Red Square Agency is off the heezy!

This parade float is GRRRREAT! Did I mention that MLB pitchers throw the beads? They come flying towards your head at about 90 mph, so you gotta grab them quick, duck or get knocked out!

No shortage of beads here (and NO boobs required to get these; this was a G-rated festival!)

The gorgeous lobby of the the Battle House Hotel.

Scenes of downtown Mobile on March 8th (photos taken by N)

Of course, no one in Mobile works on Mardi Gras - festivities all day long!

Don't worry - I didn't forget about the food porn! Southern cuisine is deee-liciouso!

Smoked duck empanada from OK Bicycle Shop (a frequent haunt of RSQ employees/ Tower on Ryan Park tenants)

My favorite! Sauteed crab claws from Wintzell's (gotta have them everytime!)

Amazing panko-crusted grouper at Noja

And even better (!!!) special steak dish from Noja - it melted in your mouth!

Crazy carpet pattern at MOB, which only has 7 gates (smallest airport I've been in!)

View of the Gulf Shores on my way back to Chi-town (boo!)

Reunited with my favorite ninja-wannabe - xoxo!

Fashion Snippet: February 18

2011-02-19T11:18:00.000-08:00

Okay - I'm still here! And back with my first fashion snippet for 2011!

I survived a Hawaii vacation - I survived a road trip down to Alabama - I survived Snowpocalypse 2011 and now things are settling back into rhythm (I also got a new roommate, changed my work schedule and returned to the gym - yay!)

This was taken yesterday with the city warming up to mid-40's. The exciting thing was that day before this, it actually got up to 60° (yes, we went from a blizzard to a Spring teaser in a mere week and a half.)

Just a prediction - this will probably be my uniform for the next two months...

Outfit details: ASOS fleeced-lined fur parka (from my wishlist,) H&M striped shirt (with a Rebecca Beeson thermal underneath,) Gap grey skinny cords, Huntress Wellingtons boots (that sprung a leak this winter - boo!) regular ole pashmina, Baggu Duck bag (gift from my brother - they sell these at Levi's,) and Warby Parker Japhy glasses (also from the wishlist.)

I'm also on another so-called 'shopping' hiatus but it's not because I'm overspending... shopping (for clothes) has lost all of its glamor! I know - it's appalling! I think working in retail has made me jaded; I'll browse online and get bored or wander through stores without any items catching my eye. So I've just decided to make do with what I have and clear out the clutter. And judging by the past outfits posted here, I wear the same things over and over again anyways...

Snow Day Continued

2011-02-03T13:42:00.000-08:00

Chicagoans are still digging themselves out of yesterday's storm but things are slowly getting back to the normal pace of city living.

I ventured down to Lake Shore Drive yesterday afternoon to survey the 'apocalyptic-disaster-movie' scenery that kept flashing over the news stations (and then headed to a friend's house for some blizzard wine.)

Abandoned cars on Lake Shore Drive looking south towards Hancock Tower & downtown.

Lake Shore Drive looking north towards Lakeview.

Empty CTA bus stranded under the North Ave Bridge (which leads to the beach/lakefront.)

Make-shift ski run

'I think your car is under there...'

Nicely cleared path. Not all sidewalks have been shoveled like this (here's an example.) Half of my commute to the office this morning involved climbing over large snow piles at intersections or to board the bus.

But at the end of the day, this is still one very vibrant & pretty place to live.

(Skyline view taken from Lincoln Park, near Armitage)

I Survived Snowpocalypse 2011 and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt!

2011-02-02T11:57:00.000-08:00

We had quite a snow storm and now I'm on my first snow day ever (= time to write a blog post!)

Walking home around 4:00pm - Snow started falling around 3:00pm, businesses closed down early, everyone trying to get home & hunker down.

Not too bad around 5:00pm - just a few inches on the ground.

Ventured outside around 9:00pm - the wind was pretty horrid but kept the sidewalk clear.

Maybe about 6-8 inches at this point

Things got pretty bad overnight. We had thundersnow (=thunder, lightning, snow & wind) around 11:00pm. People had to abandon their cars on Lake Shore Drive & there were 70-mph winds near the lake.

My bedroom windowsill at 8:00am

Mozart Street around 12 noon after a plow came through

Logan Square neighbors helping each other dig their cars out.

A little sidewalk path

Walked over to Palmer Square Park

Have a seat (in Palmer Park around 1:00pm)

A couple of before & after shots:

Left photos taken om 2/1/11 around 5:00pm; right photos taken the next morning at 9:00am.

Aloha Oi

2011-01-29T08:32:00.000-08:00

The last set of photos from my vacation - I don't want it to end but it has to (because now I'm back in snowy Chicago...)

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet

(Fake) plumeria flowers for your hair.

Last Beach Day (boo!) at Ko Olina Lagoons.

It was a bit windy on the West Side.

Magic Mountain Shave Ice in Waikele (shave ice totally trumps snow cones!)

At Grandpa & Grandma Bautista's house. We grew up coming here every Sunday for family dinners.

The (now empty) koi pond in our front yard.

My parents have lived on this street for more than 25 years.

Picking up li hing snacks & candy at Baldwin's Sweet Shop

N and our family dog, Nerf (who just showed up on the front porch about 6-7 years ago.)

Glass roof section of Honolulu International Airport.

Till the next visit, my Hawaii nei. I know I'll see you soon!

The North Shore and Ono Kine Grinds (aka Delicious Local Food)

2011-01-20T12:58:00.000-08:00

More pics from my trip home to the motherland:

Waianae Mountains + Pineapple Fields = Kamehameha Highway towards Haleiwa-North Shore

Second Beach Day! Pipeline Beach on the North Shore

YUM! Garlic Shrimp Scampi from Giovanni Shrimp Truck in Haleiwa

Watching the sunset from the 2nd floor balcony of our house

The Hawaii Theatre in Chinatown

Spicy Ahi Rice Bowl from one of my parents' favorite spots, aptly named Spicy Ahi & BBQ

The best! Portuguese donuts from Leonard's.

The family business! Just kidding - though it's nice to see our name in the mall's food court.

Family dinner at Side Street Inn

Their famous pork chops

Fried rice and garlic chicken

"Do you have a kama'aina rate?"

2011-01-20T11:25:00.000-08:00

We spent the first week of 2011 in Hawaii. There really is no place like home.

The house I grew up in

Welcome home - now time to light some fireworks!

My mom's kokeshi doll collection

Meeting Jade & Ronen for drinks (Front desk of the EDITION Hotel)

First Beach Day!

Spent the day with my awesome (married) friends!

Saimen lunch with mom & the sisters

'Nom nom nom' at the Sanrio Cafe in Pearlridge Shopping Mall

Fulfilled my Zippy's craving with a Zip Pac bento

Fulfilled N's Shirokiya cravings: Japanese cream soda, andagi donuts & a bento.

This is just the first bunch. There are definitely more pictures of blue skies, sandy beaches and 'local-kine grinds' coming tomorrow!

Hello 2011!

2011-01-11T13:56:00.000-08:00

I'm finally back to blogging after whisking off to the islands of Hawaii (my home!) to properly celebrate New Year's Eve and start this year right.

2011 will be an eye-opening experience because N is starting at new agency... in Mobile, AL (here)... and I am staying in the Mozart condo.

No, we're not splitting up but being separated will be pretty crappy. I am excited that N has this opportunity to 'get his hands dirty again' at this creative little shop.

Also, I'm just not ready to leave Chicago yet; I'm still very smitten with this metropolis, even with all this cold & snow.

So, thank goodness for Skype & Facetime, MMS, Facebook, Twitter, blogs, etc. to keep us connected. A whole new challenge for us to conquer!

Photo by my brother, djedamame

When my mom left the islands to attend college in Washington (state,) she & my dad mailed letters and recorded messages on cassette tapes - how very nostalgic!

Happy Birthday Baby Seeester!

2010-12-28T10:04:00.000-08:00

Birthday Wishes to the Baby of our clan!

She totally out-did all of us by braving an East Coast university and is studying an actual 'will-be-making-the-big-bucks-when-I-graduate' major (= bread winner!)

Hope you're enjoying your day at home (a.k.a. sunny Hawaii!) Don't let them combine your birthday gifts with the Christmas ones!!!

~ Love you & see you soon!

Follow Me!

2010-12-20T12:55:00.000-08:00

I haven't been a very good blogger lately... just a very excellent 'tweet'-er.
Follow me on Twitter here!

Good Timing

2010-12-06T11:37:00.000-08:00

We went on a quick trip to somewhere sunny & warm this weekend to take care of some important business matters...

And came back to this Midwestern scene!

Looks like powdered sugar...

2010-12-01T13:56:00.000-08:00

Chi-town welcomed it's first snowfall this morning

And it was a just a little sprinkling, which is a nice introduction to winter (instead of this two years ago.)

The flurries got me into a little festive mood:

Tinsel tree & Hello Kitty ornaments at the Wicker Park Urban Outfitters store.

OPI 'Sparkle-icious' polish peeking out from my new fleece-lined 'iPhone-friendly' gloves.

There are some big changes going on in the Mozart household, so I haven't been thinking much about the holidays, decorating, etc. which is a bit out-of-character. Will keep you posted on what surprises 2011 will bring.

Thankful

2010-11-27T10:05:00.000-08:00

I am very thankful:

To be living in an awesome city:

Chicago Blue Line Station (iPhone Hipstamatic photo)

To be happy, healthy & hungry:

Thanksgiving dinner at Tank Noodles: Pho & Vietnamese pork chop

Fritz Chai Tea Macaron

To be able to enjoy the little things in life:

Winter peonies from Trader Joe's

To love and be loved:

N & I waiting for the Red Line on Thanksgiving.

The Bautista Family at Jacob's USF graduation

Happy Holidays!

The best house on Logan Boulevard - they play music too!

Wish List 2010

2010-11-08T09:53:00.000-08:00

My wishlist for Santa *wink*

- Warby Parker Japhy Crystal Glasses

- Urbanears Plattan Headphones (in Cerise or Ocean)

Available on Moxsie with 20% off using 'DailyCandy' coupon code

- ASOS Parka with Faux Fur Fleece Lining

- Linea Pelle Double Wrapped Sliced Leather Bracelet (Gold)

Foxy Little Backpack

2010-11-03T11:24:00.000-07:00

Fail - I recently broke the strap clip my beloved BR bag due to carrying too much stuff (= mostly food. If I'm working both jobs, I bring about three meals... with snacks... and a full water thermos... and sometimes an extra pair of flats. You get the picture - I'm a packing mule!)

Eventually it will get fixed, but with my back & shoulders slowing deteriorating with age and years of oversized handbags, I'm seriously considering going old school and getting a backpack.

But not just any ole rucksack will do - I want the coolest one available that's sold at J.Crew, Opening Ceremony and even has its own NYC boutique; a Fjallraven Kanken Mini

Fjallraven mean 'Artic Fox' in Swedish - I think that logo is so cute!
This page gives you a better reference on its size.

This little pack will also be good for the gym, bike-rides and all the traveling I'll be doing next year (more on that later!) Now the only problem is choosing one out of the 27 colors...

SF Giants Are World Series Champions!

2010-11-02T12:08:00.000-07:00

A much deserved congratulations! Couldn't help but to watch them roll over the Texas Rangers.

And congrats to their crazy Bay Area fans!

Photos via Carlos Avila Gonzalez & Dave Paul Morris with The SF Chronicle.

Wind Me Up

2010-11-02T11:33:00.000-07:00

I was a wind-up doll for my friend's Halloween party. I basically just made a key from a cardboard box, mailing tub, couple of foam sheets, black masking tape and elastic.

Before The Hott Mess Factory:

And During ('The Hott Mess Factory' is what we call our friends' apartment)

Sorry for the blurry iPhone photo - The rest of the photos are mini Instax film (you can see my Polaroid Mio hanging from my wrist) that are waiting to be scanned.

All Hallow's Eve - A Preview

2010-10-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

A sneak peek of tonight's costume...

Fashion Snippet: October 28

2010-10-30T09:53:00.000-07:00

Brrrr - We got our first hit of winter temperatures this week.
I brought out Theodore and my new clog boots to commemorate.

Outfit Details: 'Theodore' Fur Sweater from Zara, BR wool shawl cardigan, BR Monogram Riding Pants, BC Footwear Outer Space Clog Boots (on sale at Lori's Shoes)

Day of Birth for the Bautista Family Patriarch!

2010-10-27T20:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my Dad today!

Playing with our family dog, Nerf in the front lawn

Pretty Little Things: Gold on Gold

2010-10-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

I'm already blinged-out for the holidays! (Rainy-day mani inspired by Emily)

'Looks Like Rain Dear' - Sephora by OPI

'Only Gold For Me Top Coat' Sephora by OPI

Think I'm Turning Japanese-ah

2010-10-27T12:39:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, N & I ventured out to the suburbs for Mitsuwa, the Japanese supermarket/food court/bookstore, to fulfill some 'katsu' cravings.

Of course, we also had to get some of our favorite snacks. It's amazing how excited we get in an Asian supermarket - I guess its because we lived so close to Clement Street in SF...

They have an Hawaiian items section - Look, Aloha Shoyu & Hawaiian Sun!!!

And when did Ramune come in so many flavors?

Psst... Today's a(nother) Special Day!

2010-10-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

To the most wonderful guy in my life!

(Home-made banner and N's birthday card on his office desk area)

Birthday Wishes to a Sister Extraordinaire!

2010-10-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

Sending birthday wishes via the World Wide Web to Shelly, the lovely middle sister in my family and my biffle!

Enjoy your special day - I miss you tremendously!

Green-ery to Golden-ess

2010-10-14T13:43:00.000-07:00

October holds three very important dates: my sister's birthday, N's birthday and my dad's birthday. These events completely occupy my mind & schedule throughout the month...

Though I did take a couple brief seconds to notice the change of scenery around the city.

Pretty Little Thing: Leaves A-Changing

2010-10-01T14:38:00.000-07:00

The first tree on our block to go golden - such a trendsetter.

Pretty Little Thing: Sunset Spiderweb

2010-10-01T14:35:00.000-07:00

I am NOT a fan of spiders (they bite!) but found this sparkling the awning of my office yesterday afternoon.

Fashion Snippet: September 17

2010-09-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

Truly taking advantage of nice cool day in the city - goodbye summer!

I'm not wearing the fall uniform but I am a BR display mannequin... again.
Outfit details: BR striped top, BR cotton full skirt, GAP sweater tights, BC Footwear oxfords, beloved pashmina.

Setting the Mood

2010-09-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

The all-white bedroom is a bit blah and slightly insane asylum-ish, so I've been working on this moodboard to help bring a bit more personality to the space:

Clockwise from top left: Faux coral from Z Gallerie, Mid-Century Gothic wall decal from Blik, Amy Butler 'Ivory Sunrise' fabric for curtains, Nelson bench (already owned,) Ikea Hedda rug (already owned,) Color Swatch knobs from Anthropologie, Ferm Living bronze 'Wild Flower' wallpaper (already owned.) Middle: Forest for the Trees bedding from Anthropologie (already owned)

And it's not even complete! Who knew putting together a simple moodboard for a 14' x 9' area would take up so much time?!?! I'll probably change it around ten more times and then not even use it at all...

Weekend of Pie

2010-09-21T17:57:00.000-07:00

I really should be going to the gym every day this week after eating these this past weekend...

Butterscotch Pie with Crushed Gingersnaps & Vanilla Cream from Lula Cafe

Snickers Pie from Lux Bar

Fashion Snippet: September 14

2010-09-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

Did you notice that I had my fall uniform on while trekking around the Loop? Here's another version from earlier during the week:

H&M button-down tunic top, BR Monogram riding pants, BR pink-ombre jersey scarf

But these lovelies replaced my standard flat boots:

R2 Susana Clogs: photo taken when I first tried them on at DSW, before ordering online with a coupon. The highest AND the most comfortable pair of high heels I own now = Amazingness!

Exploring This No-Coast City with a West Coast(er)

2010-09-21T11:20:00.000-07:00

My close friend, Vanessa was in Chi-town last week for a meeting! She was able to take a late flight back to Bay Area, which means we spent a (grey) Saturday wandering around downtown, perusing gift shops and of course, catching up on all the latest life updates & gossip!

Cloud Gate at Millennium Park (which I call the 'Silver Jellybean')

"Love and Marriage, Love and Marriage..." (At Buckingham Fountain)

Chicago Model City at the Chicago Architecture Foundation: Simulates uncontrollable Godzilla-like noises & movements.

"Eye" by Tony Tasset (30-ft eyeball sculpture in Priztker Park)

Had a great time - Come back to visit again, soon!

Fashion Snippet: September Saturday

2010-09-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

A preview of my Fall 2010 uniform:

H&M blue-striped button-down tunic, grey Joe's knit skinnies from Anthropologie.com, flat Me Too boots (that need to be replaced this season) and the beloved pashmina.

*A little note - this was actually taken on the 11th but that date is way too significant to merely be mentioned as a 'fashion snippet' title. I'll never forget (9-11)...

Flavor of the week (maybe even for the entire autumn - this color rocks!)

OPI 'Ski Teal We Drop' from the Swiss Collection

And just in case you wanted to see what Zara has in-store now...

Plush furry, chunky sweaters perfect for the upcoming winter - maybe Theodore needs a friend? My apologizes for the awful iPhone photo - I'll get some better camera apps soon, I promise!

Oh, Those Crafty Renegades

2010-09-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

Chicago finally had their annual summer Renegade Craft Fair this past weekend and it keeps getting bigger, better & badder (good bad, not bad bad...)

Paired with a blue-skied, WARM Sunday, Division Street was packed, so I opted to grab the business cards of my favorite vendors, instead of elbowing my way for some good booth photos.

This year, I was looking for printed linen scarves, wooden laser-cut jewelry, holiday cards and bunting. We basically stay away from t-shirts and screen-prints/posters because of the sheer abundance of these already in our home.

Here are my picks from the fair:

Clockwise starting from top left corner:

Brainstorm Print & Design - For their 'Go Ride A Bike' AND 'Sailors Delight' silkscreens. (Yes, I know I said no prints but these are so hard to resist; one has the cutest bicycles and the other has my FAVORITE pattern in the whole wide world!)
The Harbinger Co. - Gorgeous wooden laser-cut pieces to wear or for storage. I am equally in love with the organic petals and the technical honeycomb jewelry.
Umsteigen - These organic tops make me want my own screen-printing studio! I actually picked up a little umbrella & bicycle number and am kicking myself for not grabbing a second shirt.
Isette - Another beautful laser-cut artist! I picked up a black acrylic necklace (to be seen on a 'fashion snippet' soon!) and love how the lotus design matches my tattoo perfectly.
Hello Wars - This might possibly have to be the theme of N & I's next party (if we were the type of couple to throw parties.) I totally wanted one of these Storm Kitty pillows but that's pretty much equal to admitting that I'm as big of a nerd as N... (seriously, not gonna happen!)

So I didn't find any scarves, cards or bunting (though almost every booth had their own as decor) but craft fairs are so fun, especially in this town! They totally get my D.I.Y. wheels turning - I just wish I had more time to actually complete some projects.

Currently Craving: An Urban Oasis

2010-09-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

Shut the front door! Have you seen HGTV's Urban Oasis Giveaway?!?

It's a sleek NYC apartment at The Residences at W New York - Downtown, designed by Vern Yip. Yes, you (well, actually moi) can win this Manhattan residence!

Located in the Financial District, which isn't as neighborhood-ish as the Upper West Side, but look at that incredible view!

All images from HGTV.com

I'm definitely entering this sweepstake every day twice a day until the deadline. This place would truly be my dream home but the property taxes & building fees would be atrocious. I would just take the cash prize, then buy a Chicago Greystone & a Hawaii beach house and probably still have enough money leftover for renovations. I'm soooo gonna win!

Fashion Snippet: September 3

2010-09-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

Chi-town had another brief cooling spell; I think autumn is right around the corner...

And I'm back to dressing like a store display (photo actually taken as I'm rushing to leave Job #2) Outfit details: BR tunic top (that's soft like a pajama shirt - luvs!) BR vest, GAP Always Skinny Black Jeans, GAP silver crossbody bag, heeled oxfords from Ambiance SF, beloved pashmina scarf, striped canvas bag was Japanese magazine giveaway.

Pretty Little Thing: Found in an Asian Market

2010-09-07T20:59:00.000-07:00

After all that painting, I had a craving for pho and we headed over to Tank Noodles on Argyle St. After eating, we took a little stroll around the neighborhood Vietnamese market.

I have never seen this flavor of the popular Japanese soda, Ramune (even in Hawaii)

Laboring on Labor Day

2010-09-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

This was the scene around the Mozart house this Labor Day holiday.

And here's the big reveal, ta-da!

Goodbye brown bedroom - the room is so bright now and actually looks larger! Though it is a bit stark, like a hospital. I need to add some color accents quick! I'm not sure if I'll put the padded headboards back up, and was actually eye-ing one of these Blik decals. Also notice this beautiful duvet cover on sale at Anthropologie (it's perfect!). Some Rit-dye to the original cotton curtains would be a simple project that would add alot of impact. Yay - it's like I got an entirely new room to decorate!

Fashion Snippet: August 26th

2010-08-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

Chi-town actually cooled down for a brief second and I was able to wear leggings (and now its back to 90° - bleh...)

FCUK Floral Jersey Dress from a HauteLook sale, Shae cardigan from a Swirl sale, H&M leggings, F21 lace-up flats, American Apparel 'Office' nail polish. Photos taken in an Anthropologie dressing room.

Sidenote: I just realized this outfit has no BR items - that's incredible progress for me! I felt like I kept dressing as a store mannequin display...

Pretty Little Things: Favorite Flowers

2010-08-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

I've been finding my favorite colorful flowers around town! Amazing-ness!

Japanese Chrysanthemums from Trader Joe's

Dahlias from Trader Joe's: Need to go back soon since they had a great variety of colors!

Bright pink celosias from the Logan Square Farmers Market: All velvety & squishy reminds me of coral. This pink might become my new favorite color.

Cut You Outta My Life

2010-08-30T09:39:00.000-07:00

I finally got a haircut last week - its been about a year since my last trim. I am attempting to grow out my bangs and have a more Kardashian-esque look (Don't judge - they have great hair!)

AND I'm currently in a tongue-sticking stage, I guess...

Review: Chopped by amazing Alexa at barbara&barbara -Affordable little cuttery in Logan Square! Seriously, right at Logan & Kedzie, which is walking distance from my house, only $30!!! ($20 for those with shorter/finer hair) but the place only has 3 chairs, so make an appointment. Afterwards you can get a $5 cheeseburger at Dunlays (Wednesdays only!) or head to Lula, if you're feeling fancy.

Fashion Snippet: August 18th

2010-08-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

I think I stole this outfit from one of our store mannequins: BR ruffle front tank, BR skinny khaki chinos, woven wedge sandals, aviators and new GAP bag.

Silver Canvas Crossbody Bag from Gap - $38.50 (not available online and I made them take it down from a wall display, so of course, then I had to buy it.)

Currently Craving: Mini Crossbody Bags

2010-08-19T12:13:00.000-07:00

My family and friends are quite aware that I have a rather unhealthy, yet romantic preference for chic, expensive purses. Just look at what got bookmarked from my recent online shopping search for a little crossbody bag (the 'IN' purse for this upcoming fall season.)

J.Crew Jericho Pursette - $138.00 (no longer available online!) Found via this fantastic image from the We Covet blog.

Marc Jacobs by Jacobs Petal to the Metal Pouchette: Available from ShopBop - $228.00

Coach New Poppy Leather Button Bag - $168.00. First spotted on The Glamourai

Rebecca Minkoff MAB ('Morning-After-Bag') Clutch - $169.00*
(*sale price on Gilt.com)

Nowadays, I just need something to hold the essentials: June, important cards, keys, Chapstick, eye drops, powder compact & taser/pepper spray. Getting an iPhone totally alleviated my 'big-bag' complex (i.e. the need to carry the largest everyday purse possible to be a fashionable, capable pack-mule.) Though who would have known that the smaller 'satchels' would cost just as much as their larger versions?

Pretty Little Thing: The Cutest Buttons Ever!

2010-08-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

N & I are not married but these little buttons describe us in a nutshell - aaaawwwww!

Dynamic Duo Buttons from the Button Empire Etsy Shop. Found via Snippet & Ink Inspiration Board #497

Fashion Snippet: August 12th

2010-08-13T09:19:00.000-07:00

Wow, I haven't posted one of these for quite awhile. I just don't feel very photogenic during these dreadful 'soupy' summer days, especially with my frizzed, matted hair and extra-shiny face... but I might as well start practicing with 'June' (my iPhone 4!)

Black jersey sundress from BCBG outlet store, Rebel's Monique sandals from Endless.com, gold leaf necklace from Anthropologie, white tie shrug from my sister's closet, $15 polarized aviators from the Sunglass Warehouse.com, striped canvas bag was a freebie from a Japanese fashion magazine.

College Student Wardrobe Remix Shopping Guide

2010-08-09T09:21:00.000-07:00

This post is for my baby sister, who is about to head back to college on the East Coast and needs a little update to her low-maintanence, casual style:

(which really means milking mom & dad for as much as she can before she's 5,761 miles away and without a credit card...)

#1: Update your basic t-shirt to relaxed, longer-length tops.

Forever 21 Basic Tunic Top with Belt - $9.80

AE Striped Scoopneck T - $24.50

American Apparel Sheer Rib Short Sleeve Tunique - $36.00

#2. Keep your denim straight & dark and they won't go out of style.

GAP Real Straight Jeans in Dark Wash - $49.50

Levi's Demi Curve Straight in Pitch Black - $59.50

For job or internship interviews, invest in a pair of nice black pants (like these or these.) The slim fit will make it a painless transition from everyday denim while elevating the entire outfit to business casual.

#3. Flat knee-high leather/pvc boots are a fashionable alternative to wellies.
(not suede - they don't hold up well in rain & snow)

Steve Madden Intyce Boot - $129.95
Everyone has these but that's because they are pretty much perfect. Spray with leather protectant and maybe have a shoe repair shop add rubber soles, to prevent slidding around icy sidewalks.

Chinese Laundry Pixel Boot - $109.00

#4. Cardigans are good to carry around for chilly classrooms and effortlessly layer under jackets.

Old Navy Jersey Boyfriend Cardigan - $19.50

Abercrombie & Fitch Valerie Sweater - $58.00

Express 3/4-Sleeve Long Cardigan - $39.50

#5. The plaid button-down tunic is pretty versatile - wear it open like a jacket or with (your AA) jeggings & boots.

Old Navy Plaid Roll-Up Tunic - $26.50

Aeropostale Plaid Pintuck Tunic Shirt - $39.50

#6. Carefree accessories are the finishing touch.

Belts add definition to the simplest top (just make sure your shirt is hip-length or longer.)

Forever21 Basket Weaved Rope Belt - $6.80: this white color will working with everything!

A colorful light scarf adds instant interest and is a nice replacement for fussy jewelry.

Gap Bird & Check Scarf - $24.50

*Note to mom - Almost all items are under $100 (expect the boots but you really can't find a decent pair for a cheap price) and can be found at stores located in Ala Moana.
Though I was nice enough to include a couple things from where Jacob & I moonlight (and therefore, able to get an employee discount.) Happy Shopping!

Currently Craving: Sweat It Out

2010-08-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

When did sweatpants get so fancy...?

Anthropologie At Rest Pants by Splendid - $88.00

Ann Taylor Loft Tie Waist Lounge Pants - $39.50

Madewell Heathered Slouch Sweatpants - $49.50

And so pricey! Though this IS a nice departure from those horrible Juicy velour get-ups.

Currently Craving: Loving a Little Leather (Jacket)

2010-08-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

First I tried one on at BR, then I saw this cute outfit at Ann Taylor Loft online:

Ann Taylor Loft: Fall 2010 Outfit Ensemble

And the jacket really caught my eye...

Black version of the one shown above: Cropped Soft Lamb Skin Jacket - $298

So now I can't stop thinking about having an amazing leather jacket (perfect for the fall and visits back to SF!) I probably won't be able to wear one until October but it's been quite sometime since I've really had a clothing craving...

For My Harley-Loving Dad

2010-08-02T13:44:00.000-07:00

A grouping of very nice bikes parked in my neighborhood.

Farmer's Market Loot: Sunday, July 25

2010-08-02T13:25:00.000-07:00

This week's picks from our lovely Logan Square Farmer's Market:

I always come back with fresh flowers: not quite sure what these are...?

Grabbed a little snack from Macaron Chicago - so amazing delicious!

Of course, got a cone of Zullo's Italian donuts to accompany our New Wave iced coffee before walking around the market. They're like mini malasades!

Not pictured: organic tomatos, iced coffee and Cook Au Vin butter & sugar crepe.

Pretty Little Thing(s): More Cupcake Dinner

2010-08-02T13:09:00.000-07:00

Look what Nina and I had for our afternoon snack/early dinner on Saturday:

Yes, Sprinkles just open here but More is closer to work and equally delicious!

Kung Fu (Kid) Takes You to Beijing

2010-07-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

We watched The Karate Kid the other night... (only $4 at Logan Theatre - did you think I'd really pay full price for this flick?!?)

I thought the movie was decent remake of the original, especially since I grew up in a kung fu household (I wonder what my dad will think about the "jacket on, jacket off" method?) but the views of Beijing, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and Wudang Mountains is what truly stuck in my head, reviving that ole travel bug I get every couple of years...

Look at this scene! Training along the Great Wall of China (which has always been on my destination list!)

Jaden Smith & Jackie Chan: image via official Columbia Pictures movie site

Image of the Forbidden City Imperial Palace via Tour-Beijing.com

Image of Wudang Mountains via Chinatour.com

One of the few 'modern' shots of the city featured the National Stadium (a.k.a. Bird's Nest)

Image via Official Bejing 2008 Olympics website

Now I'm off to track down my passport, since I know it will expire in 2011 (10-years after my first international trip to Asia - oh the memories!)

Lazy Summer Sunday - as captured by an iPhone

2010-07-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

Lovely photos from this past weekend - compliments of June, my iPhone 4.

What do you do when someone gives you a bottle of olive oil that came straight from Greece?

Make a caprese salad - so good & refreshing on a summer day!

This is where I watched the World Cup Final between the Netherlands v. Spain.

Totally luv my iPhone for live streaming video.

And yes, I'm at the beach in Chicago. See over to the right...

It was only around 83° this past Sunday - much nicer than the 100° heat index predicted for today.

Currently Craving: Chunky Wooden Sole Fan Club

2010-07-13T07:49:00.000-07:00

It's been hot, muggy and stormy here in Chi-town; much hotter than the past two summers we've experience here. It drives me a bit crazy because I have no idea what to wear when the weather report states 90° & scattered thunderstorms... (though having these rainboots helps add some color to an outfit.)

So I'm just focusing on cooler (calmer) days ahead and drooling over potential fall footwear. I'm a fan of the chunky wooden sole & heel look of that emerging clog trend... though I don't like actual clogs. Here are a couple examples of what I mean:

Madewell's Sunset Sandal - $148.00

BC Footwear Sail the High Seas Clog (via Delias.com) - $79.50

I've been eyeing these short ankle boots since Michelle Williams stepped out with a pair (she even uses them during the summer - Cute!)

No. 6 5" Leather Buckle Boot - $345.00

Swedish Hasbeens Jodhpurs - approx. $266.00

ASOS AWCH Short Ankle Boot - approx. $151.61

What do you think? They're a bit ugly but definitely durable enough to handle the crazy Midwest climate ranges.

A Lighter Purse

2010-07-01T10:10:00.000-07:00

Guess what replaces a daily planner, smart phone, digital camera and iPod nano?

(This photo didn't turn out so well, so I put together the above graphic in Illustrator.)

My new iPhone 4!!!!

Nelson stood in line at the AT&T store on Tuesday for their 7am shipment. I've named her 'June' and it is really quite amazing! Why didn't I get one of these sooner...?

And yep, that's a little view of the new tattoo on my left wrist, a little souvenier from my trip home. My brother, sisters and I have the same one in different spots.

Thirty-One Years Young

2010-06-26T09:49:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the day of my birth - full of cupcakes, incredible World Cup matches, office pizza party, gifted vuvuzela, amazing delicious dinner and good wishes from all directions!

Cupcakes from Luscious Layers Bakery

Dinner at Longman & Eagle

N broke out his most special (most expensive!) pair of kicks.

Miko's Italian Ice for dessert

Cupcakes for breakfast the day after!

Pretty Little Thing: After-Storm Rainbow

2010-06-24T08:40:00.000-07:00

Look at what nature gave us after a horrible storm yesterday.

I think it's more like a smirk than a smile. Another scary weather system swept across the Midwest - the tornado sirens actually went off across the city!

I like the 'vanilla-skies' that come after heavy rains.

Photos taken around 8:00pm from my living room window

Fashion Snippet: June 18th

2010-06-22T09:04:00.000-07:00

I think I'm finally learning how to dress fashionably, especially since you can't tell that it was an incredibly hot & muggy Friday with a series of thunderstorms (correction: a hurricane!) passing through.

Banana Republic straw fedora, H&M striped tunic, skinny chinos, favorite blue pashmina, BC Footwear Rainbow Boots

This is the I'm-too-cool-to-talk-to-you-on-the-CTA version (hee hee!)

Spy Dynasty Sunglasses added

Happy Dad Day!

2010-06-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to my uber-cool Dad!

Always present and totally patient in raising his four rambunctious children!

Seen here on his old bike (though probably the first of many more Harleys to come.)
Photo from 808shots.com: '09 Toys for Tots Gallery

Summer Puddle Jumping

2010-06-19T10:34:00.000-07:00

We just had a massive storm come through the Midwest - a violent, torrential yet brief system that are pretty typical here during the summer/early fall.

These commotions, which daunt each week's forecast are accompanied by humid, stifling 90-degree temperatures and extremely hard to dress for since that kind of heat eliminates wearing my regular (but uncomfortably-too-warm-for-summer) wellies. So the search has begun for a shorter, lighter option:

Hunter Short Lace-Up Wellingtons

Incredibly adorable Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Ankle Boot: Available from endless.com

An asian version of the cute ankle rainboot: Wifky Rain Boot via YesStyle.com

Tretorn Skerry Boots in Lake Blue

And I better order some very soon - Here's the weather report for next week!

(via Chicago Weather Center.com)

Glitz & Glam of Vegas

2010-06-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

Headed to Las Vegas with the familia after all the SF activities. Cue the 'ohs' & 'ahs' now...

Pretty (...) Little Things: City by the Bay Details

2010-06-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

The little details captured in this insanely outrageous, charismatic San Francisco.

Decor at The Pampered Girl in Hayes Valley

Paulette Macarons

Typical Chinatown gift shop

An original Banksy piece in Chinatown (actually covered by protective plastic)

Ahi Poke Wasabi Bowl @ Pacific Catch

'Language of the Birds' Art Installation/ Solar-Powered Lights in North Beach

Hipster scooter - hipster brother - hipster SF-brewed beer truck on Haight Street

Vintage shoes at Wasteland

Pitbull puppy across from a woman wearing a horrible faux fur coat on the 38-Geary

Birthday Wish List

2010-06-14T20:20:00.000-07:00

My *cough* birthday is coming up soon. I really partied it up last year but this year I would much rather just have the night off from my second job and eat cupcakes on the couch.

Here are a couple of things on my wish list (just in case any of you were wondering...)

Belgian Waffle Maker

VillaWare V2002 Belgian Iron: $49.22 on Overstock.com

Pesto FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker: $39.95 on Amazon.com

Iced Coffee Brewer

Toddy Cold Brew System: $32.99 on Amazon

Hario Iced Coffee Maker: $30.00 on Lamill Coffee

Colorful Headphones

URBANEARS Navy Plattan Headphones: $60.00 on Moxsie.com

Clear-Frame Eyeglasses

Warby Parker Japhy Eyeglasses

Selima Optique for J.Crew glasses

Though, the only thing I really (reeeaaaaallllyyyy!) want is this:

Apple iPhone 4

I would still get one if it wasn't my birthday month but how convenient is that late-June release date? It's so awesome!

Pretty Little Thing: Office Peonies

2010-06-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

Peonies (one of my favorite flowers!) having been popping up in yards around the neighborhood.

One of my co-workes brought in this beautiful, fragrant bunch from his wife's garden. Aren't they amazing?!?

San Francisco via Polaroid Mio

2010-06-14T09:02:00.000-07:00

I brought my Polaroid Mio along this trip since now film is easier to find due to the increased popularity of the (nearly identical!) Fuji Instax.

Snippets of San Francisco

2010-06-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorite photos from a brief San Francisco visit for my brother's graduation.

The view of the TransAmerica Building from Broadway & Columbus

Linden Street Alley in Hayes Valley

The Pampered Girl Salon in Hayes Valley

St. Ignatius Church on the University of San Francisco campus

The roof of St. Ignatius

Chinatown Gates at Grant Ave & Bush Street

The view of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge from Pier 39

The main reason to be back in the Bay Area - Congrats to my little brother!

(L>R: Shelly, Veronica, Kathy, Jacob, Mom, Dad, Diane, me)

Before I Get All My Vacation Photos Together...

2010-06-10T08:44:00.000-07:00

We came back to the Midwest for this, which is an incredibly huge deal for this sports-crazed town,

2010 Stanley Cup champions. (Scott Strazzante, Chicago Tribune / June 9, 2010)

I'm no tomboy but do enjoy sports and am especially passionate for 'futbol.' As Stanley Cup celebrations overtake Chicago, I eagerly wait for June 11th.

As a MUFC/Premie fan, I mainly follow the 'Three Lions' throughout the competition and can't wait for the England v. US match!

And now back to our irregularly scheduled blogging...

Travel Forecasting

2010-05-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

One major downfall about visiting San Francisco in the summer is that it is so much colder than the rest of the country - pretty much a cool 60-degrees all year round!

See how much the temperatures vary depending on what part of city/peninsula you're on...

Weather Forecast via ABC-7 / KGO

Though it looks like Chicago will be warming up while we're away,

Weather Forecast via WGN Chicago

And hopefully I'll be able to get a nice tan while in Vegas,

Weather forecast via Fox5 Las Vegas

But this is the most anticipated forecast - Praying to the good-weather gods for my friend's wedding!

Weather Forecast via Honolulu Star Bulletin AccuWeather

Going Back to the Bay

2010-05-18T20:08:00.001-07:00

I'm heading back to San Francisco tomorrow for my brother's college graduation!

This print by Megan Nolton (available in her Etsy store, Art Shark Designs) makes me nostalgic for that city by the bay.

Fashion Snippet - May 6

2010-05-11T12:24:00.000-07:00

Chicago's have a breakdown... or just decided to skip summer altogether.

It has suddenly turned cold & rainy, and I'll probably have wear my wellies all this week, too. Boo!

Photo take in Zara, Michigan Ave: Uniqlo grey knit blazer, H&M pink trapeze top, Banana Republic skinny black chinos & Huntress boots. You can see my trusty Taiga Gore-Tex rain jacket sleeve in the lower right corner.

Ramen Cravings Bring Us to Mitsuwa

2010-05-11T12:04:00.000-07:00

We finally found the local Mitsuwa Marketplace! It's a Japanese supermarket, bookstore and food court all under one roof and reminds me of a combination of Shirokiya (in Hawaii) and Kinokuyina (in SF.) A little slice of heaven to fulfill N's ramen cravings.

Oh, and by local, I mean a 30-minute drive out of Chicago - we were in shock to discover that it is just 5-minutes away from the Ikea we've visited only about a dozen times.

Charsui miso ramen from Santouka

Yummy Japanese pastry at House Hippo Bakery - look at those Doraemon buns!

Fashion Snippet: May 1st

2010-05-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

The first of May (which is also 'Lei Day' in Hawaii) was absolutely gorgeous - the perfect day for a new dress!

Striped Banana Republic Empire Ruffle Dress, Forever 21 cardigan, brown woven belt, statement chain necklace I made that morning, grey Nine West flats.

It's all in the details - pattern & neckline ruffle of the dress and my jewelry creation. Inspired by this & this, I made the necklace out of some headband supplies since it was a quiet morning in the office.

Island Wedding On Paper

2010-05-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share my friend's wedding invite since they are so lovely!

The teal/blue color is a match to the bridesmaid dress... and I'm just very excited to be visiting home next month for the festivites!

Fashion Snippet: April 30

2010-05-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

This is about as 'casual' of an outfit I will get (unless I'm in gym clothes.) I am not a 't-shirt & jeans' kind of gal. Oh, and scarves are my comfort blankie, if you haven't figured that out yet.

Black linen-blend blazer from Cotton Sheep (Hayes Valley, San Francisco,) Forever 21 grey tunic tank, Banana Republic black skinny chinos, BC Footwear oxfords (via DSW,) and $10 Pashmina scarf.

Pretty Little Thing: Michigan Avenue Tulips

2010-04-30T15:15:00.000-07:00

I love that Chicago does this every year on the 'Magnificent Mile!'

A pretty close color match - don't you think?

Ruffled Top from Akira

Currently Craving: Making Statements

2010-04-29T10:11:00.000-07:00

They changed the 'dress code' at my retail job, so now you have to wear third piece with your outfit, like a cardigan or scarf or statement necklace. Hey, I am definitely not complaining,

Binu's Necklace from Anthropologie- $58.00

Trap Glass Necklace from J.Crew - $135.00

I love all the new FENTON/FALLON for J.Crew pieces, especially the ones with those little spikes!

Crystal Chains Necklace from the FENTON/FALLON for J.Crew collection - $175.00

Old Soul New Heart "Still Plays Dress Up" Necklace - $85.00

Stella & Dot St. Tropez Statement Necklace - $178.00

And just because I would love to do a statement headpiece:

Ban.do Black Label 'She Reads Keats' Garland - $300.00

Little Brother Birthday Wishes!

2010-04-29T07:48:00.001-07:00

A birthday shout out to my uber-cool, blogging, artsy urban photographing, i'm-in-a-band-with-a-boring-name-but-that's-supposed-to-be-hip, "what am I going to do with my life after I graduate college?!?!" little/only brother! Look how he's celebrating his special day:

Photo from his own Facebook album.

At least I didn't call him an f-ing hipster again - oh wait... Seriously, I wouldn't be able to do a post like this (or this) about my sisters.

I hope you're living it up tonight with some PBR, seriously-good Korean/Thai/Vietnamese food and a jam session! See you in three weeks!

What A Site: National Train Day 2010

2010-04-26T13:18:00.000-07:00

This National Train Day 2010 website is adorable!

Pretty Little Thing(s): Signs of Spring

2010-04-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

Signs of Spring: bright blue skies, lovely flowering trees and allergies galore!

I picked up this cute spring hat at our last Target run (though now it's a bit too cold to wear out)

It's a 'Eugenia Kim for Target' Straw Cap

"You Killed Our Love Fern!"

2010-04-14T12:42:00.000-07:00

Last spring, we got an orchid (remember...?)

It is definitely a high-maintanence plant - got extremely jealous when I brought some peonies in, lost all its flowers and the main stem completely dried out by the autumn months.

I'd wistfully been watering it during the winter but N saw a new branch coming up at the beginning of the year and started spoiling it. Now it is better than before, sprouting two branches of little buds:

Spoiling = twice-daily water spritzings and transports between the living room & kitchen windows to catch prime morning & afternoon sunlight.

The first of the new flowers are just opening up:

I think we'll start calling it "Fern."

Scenes from a Sunday Afternoon Bike Ride

2010-04-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

A little ride down Kedzie and Logan Boulevards this past weekend. Springtime in Chicago is quite amazing!

N's custom fixed-gear (hipster!) bicycle

Daffodils and tulips are blooming everywhere!

This area is known for its grand greystone homes - aren't they impressive!

Pretty Little Thing: Macaron Chicago

2010-04-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

I sent N to the Logan Square Kitchen Pastry Market for the sole task of picking up some Macaron Chicago goodies. Delicious!

Fashion Snippet: April 8

2010-04-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

I took these pics at my friendly neighborhood Anthropologie store. Their dressing rooms have pretty decent lighting - hee hee! The all-black dress code was for a special BR-cardholder event.

Zara trench, Burton hoodie vest, $10 pashmina, H&M leggings, Naturalizer Bradbury boots, black linen dress from Butik (that my sister let me buy,) this velvet blazer

And how could I resist trying on a couple things while I was there...

Friendly Competition Top, Stratus Cloud Top, Twirling Chemise, sale dress

We've had some sporadic warm spells here and there between torrential April showers - hopefully some lighter layers will show up on the 'Fashion Snippet' soon!

Currently Craving: iWant iPad = self-proclaimed 'Mac'-tard

2010-04-05T11:52:00.000-07:00

I don't care how stupid the name is - I still want one... really bad!!!

Image from apple.com

The guy at the Verizon store on Van Ness introduced us to the term 'Mac-tard,' which we now use quite often with pride, since we are an Apple-household.

The weird thing is that I am definitely NOT an early-adopter techie but how easy would it be to carry this uber-cool device around instead of your laptop/book/newspaper/daily planner... and maybe also even your cellphone/iPod?

Going to start saving money now for the 2nd-generation version (because you should never ever ever buy 1st-generation Apple products!)

BYW Friends: World According To Us

2010-04-05T09:19:00.000-07:00

More new friends to share from BYW - This team was named "World According to Us." Just click on each header to check them out!

Two Meals: March 30

2010-04-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

This is a typical lunch for me: Trader Joe's salad (eaten at my desk, accompanied by some pretzels & a can of Sprite)

But today we had a not-so-typical dinner and visited the newest gourmet hot dog joint, Franks 'n' Dawgs:

We tried the Cheese Head (shown here) and a Tur-Dawgen. They were quite yummy but not good enough to replace our tried-&-true favorite, Hot Doug's.

Project Wasabi

2010-03-31T09:52:00.000-07:00

With the promise of warmer (a.k.a. bike riding!) weather a couple weeks back, we sent Wasabi (my beloved Schwinn) into the shop for a make-over:

It is now a single-speed! I haven't used my shifters since we moved from SF and taking off all those gears makes carrying it up & down two flights of stairs a bit easier.

I'd say that Chicago is a pretty bicycle-friendly city:

Though someone should really educate these Midwest drivers about sharing!

Fashion Snippet: March 30

2010-03-31T09:24:00.000-07:00

New blog series: 'Fashion Snippet' - a little peek at my indoor & outdoor outfit of the day:

Zara trench, Gap dress, thrifted boy's cardigan, Forever 21 leggings & woven belt, Bronx Reno boots, $10 Las Vegas kiosk pashmina, Spy Dynasty sunglasses

My 'Blooming' Inbox

2010-03-31T07:46:00.000-07:00

I am actually not a huge fan of spring fashion (my favorite color is grey!) but I really like the fun & vibrant emails retailers send out during this time.

*Pinwheels are the next balloon (my fellow girly bloggers will understand)

Don't they all just make you smile...?

Pretty Little Thing: Ranunculus

2010-03-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

Springtime is here!

Bunches of ranunculus picked up from Trader Joe's. I guess they're also called buttercups but I prefer the funnier-sounding name - hee hee!

BYW Friends: License To Blog

2010-03-17T09:49:00.000-07:00

I've just finished the 'Blogging Your Way' e-course taught by Holly of decor8 and Leslie of A Creative Mint.

Along learning how to develop my blog further, I've discovered an abundance of new blogs to read! I'm determined to visit each and every site on our class blogroll. The good part is that everyone was divided up into groups (with some pretty awesome team names, you'll see as we go along) making it easy to go through all 200 (OMG!!!) blogs.

Each week, I will share some of my favorites from each group because its just not fair to keep them all to myself.

This week's 'BYW Friends' post is a collection from my very own team, called "License To Blog." Just click on each header to check them out!

(Juliette of Zuhause in Germany was actually our team leader!)

I am totally grateful for the entire 'License to Blog' team of amazing bloggers! They not only gave me some incredible feedback on how to improve 'snippets' (note the larger font size, header & background to name few.) but some very lovely praise that only encourages me to continue posting and developing this blog.

Playlist of the Month: March 2010

2010-03-17T09:44:00.001-07:00

I call this month's playlist "Girlie Indie Alternative" and its a much more mellow collection, comprised of my favorite female singers. Perfect these lovely spring days: either sitting in the park with a heavy sweater or lounging indoors during hazy rainfall.

Fisher-Price Turntable: Originally uploaded by elizaboothy

"1 2 3 4" - Feist

"I Am Down" - Plastiscines

"What Are You Into?" - Meg & Dia

"Rise Up with Fists!!" - Jenny Lewis with the Watson Twins

"Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?" - She & Him

"Happier" - A Fine Frenzy

"Under My Bed" - Meiko

"The Show" - Lenka

"Actor Out of Work" - St. Vincent

"Back In Your Head" - Tegan & Sara

"Lights Out" - Santigold

"(So I'll Sit Here) Waiting" - The Like

"Portions for Foxes" - Rilo Kiley

"Don't Keep Me Waiting" - Sharleen Spiteri

"No One (Can Ever Change My Mind)" - Stefanie Heinzmann

"Love Song" - Sara Bareilles

"Fidelity" - Regina Spektor

"They" - Jem

"Secret" - The Pierces

"Dirty Laundry" - Bitter:Sweet

"I'm Good I'm Gone" - Lykki Li

(Since not all songs can be found on iTunes, I've included links to their websites/MySpace pages -Enjoy!)

3 Things (by peer pressure)

2010-03-16T07:39:00.000-07:00

Ugh - I don't usually respond to these mass emailer questionnaires but both my mom & sister completed this AND mentioned that I would also respond (see section G.)

I'd rather post it here than start another email chain, so here's my "3 Things About Me!"

A. Three names I go by:

1. Trish
2. Tricia
3. Kehau

**********************************************

B. Three places I've lived:

1. Pearl City, Hawaii
2. San Francisco, California
3. Chicago, Illinois

********************************************

C. Three places I've worked (that not too many people know about!):

1. Zippy's Pearl City (Hawaii)
2. Plaza Research (San Francisco)
3. Anthropologie (San Francisco)

*****************************************

D. Three (specific) places I have been:

1. Halong Bay, Vietnam
2. Machu Picchu, Peru
3. Florence, Italy

***************************************************

E. Three people that email me regularly: (Texting is not email)

1. N
2. Mom
3. Vanessa Cahee

*********************************************

F. Three things I love to eat:

1. Belgian waffles
2. Prosciutto
3. Sushi

*********************************************

G. Three people I think will respond: N/A!!!

***********************************************

H. Three things I am looking forward to:

1. N having a full-time advertising job
2. Brother's Graduation in SF/Vegas Family Vacation/ Jade's Wedding in Hawaii
3. Having a family

'Aloha from Hawaii'

2010-03-11T11:15:00.000-08:00

The latest care package from my mom! She's the best!

Look what's inside (going clockwise, starting from the top left corner):

A professional photo of Waimea Bay (where they have this surf competition)

Year of the Tiger tea towel

Betty Crocker's Quick & Easy Cookbook (to help me achieve one of my resolutions)

Plumeria Notecard Set (we used to have one of these trees in our front yard)

New manicure set that she didn't want

2 bags of Anahola Granola

Bath & Body Works Sweet Pea Body Butter (not a fan of B&BW but this scent is okay)

3 bags of Cadbury mini eggs (my siblings & I luv this Easter candy!)
Hurricane Popcorn mix

Big Island Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies

Hippie Water Bottle (?!?)

Mango Peach Tea

A whole bunch of Orbit gum (because she reads this blog!)
Not shown: Article about local artist, Flying Dumpling from the Honolulu Star-Bulletin

And how cute was the USPS Priority Mail box!

Pretty Little Thing(s)

2010-03-11T09:36:00.000-08:00

Signs of Easter (candy!!!) at my local Target store

"...And she's just my type"

2010-03-06T13:16:00.000-08:00

Yikes! It's March and I forgot to actually post my 'art' resolutions (yet I took a lovely picture of my Bernina to go along with this entry *smile*)

Take more photos - take more photos - take more photos
With all those photos: build a stock photography library AND share on Flickr
Don't be afraid to sewing buttonholes, along with use other machine 'feet'
In collaboration with the spending hiatus, sew a spring dress or top
Make a purse for my sister
Finish a chunky scarf (like one of these) BEFORE it starts snowing
Learn to let go of fabric scraps/ ribbon scraps/ any other odds & ends I tend to keep for crafting purposes but never end up using for years & years, including that full kimono!
Make my own holiday/ birthday/ thank you cards
Have a pretty blog (I actually wrote this before I started my 'Blogging Your Way' class - haha!)

I'm sure there are a couple tasks missing from this list that I have scribbled on some random post-it in my calendar but I feel that it would be better to post these right now, seeing that I started on the draft about two months ago - oops!

Film Fashion: Coco avant Chanel

2010-03-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

'Coco avant Chanel' finally arrived via Netflix. I've been waiting to see this movie for almost nine months and it was quite captivating (except the tragic love story felt very La Vie en Rose-esque.)

And I have never wanted one of those striped fisherman tops until I watched this film. Here are a couple I've found recently to add some classic French woman flair to my wardrobe:

Vintage Bateau Top ($36.00 at J.Crew)

Textured Breton ($38.00 at Boden)

Truly Madly Deeply French Terry Stripe Tunic (On sale for $29.99 at Urban Outfitters)

Though I can't get any one of these since I'm still on a spending hiatus, I can watch 'Coco' over and over again to get a gist of her amazing sense of style. The September Issue is the next movie in my queue - I can't wait!

Pardon the Dust

2010-03-05T12:00:00.001-08:00

I've been taking a blogging class and it's really been stirring up some things in my blog realm. So thank you for your patience with my lack of posts as I am truly trying figure out what I really want to accomplish with 'snippets.' I promise that these changes will benefit everyone!