Felinofelice

What kind of bird are you?

2012-01-13T21:27:00.000-08:00

This weeks fixation courtesy of Wes Anderson and his most recent film Moonrise Kingdom. Co-written with Roman Coppola and described as the story of two twelve-year-olds who fall in love, make a secret pact and run away together into the wilderness as various authorities try to hunt them down while a violent storm is brewing off-shore and a peaceful island community is turned upside down in more ways than anyone can handle. Scary to imagine in almost any other movie premise but here. Have I mentioned that my boyfriend Bill is in it?

PS. Thank you to my friend Scott for making me some gif magic!
Hope you're having a great weekend... ♥

From A Mess To The Masses

2012-01-01T14:53:00.000-08:00

A little bit obsessed with this new documentary by directors Antoine Wagner and Francisco Soriano. The film centers around the two years of tour that followed the release of Phoenix's 2009 Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix. If you live in France or Germany you might have seen it on television already (so lucky) since I think it aired there a few months back? But everywhere else it's still yet to be released. Below is a clip from the film posted on Nowness. So good and so short, and Thomas Mars and his small chin look adorable in it... shallow but true.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T02:22:00.000-08:00

And thank you for your friendship, those who are near and those that are far. Hope 2012 will hold lots of love and more of all that was good in the years leading up to it. How did you celebrate? I celebrated with family again. Nothing too exciting, but I like being around my loved ones to hug and kiss right when the clock strikes midnight. Also, there were a series of new year rituals to be kept... red underwear, toast with champagne and 12 grapes for luck! New Year's are a lot of work for the superstitious obsessive types. *besos*

PS. This year I resolve to learn proper French! Wish me luck, oui.

- Photo by Irving Klaw -

JingleAlltheWay

2011-12-17T16:47:00.000-08:00

A few Holiday Pinterest's...

Little Tree by Inslee

Penrhos school girls skating on the frozen Canal Pond during their
occupation of Chatsworth House in the Second World War (via SomeHowl)

Bulb Wreath by Georgia Peachez

Vintage Christmas via Designsperation

Stained Glass Cookies by Dreemkäggs

Janine Niepce | The Little Skater, Paris, 1954

Blue Glitter & Suede Platform | UrbanOutfitters

Cookie Cutter Fudge by Betty Crocker

Ready for Snow via TampaxSuperstar

Lastly, a Lecube Christmas song for the Holiday's.
It's a great song. Has just the right amount of sweet melancholy
and there's even some jingle bells towards the end...
Hope you're having a nice Holiday season! ♥

Hello

2011-12-05T14:23:00.000-08:00

I've been away, not so much the internet but more from the blog. Think it's one of those times where I feel at a loss for words. Not sure what to type or what to share? If there's such a thing as a bloggers block, then that's sort of what I have and I apologize for being gone. But ok, on a more important subject: The Slow Readers Book Club book. Have you joined yet? The two books the club has decided to tackle this season are God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater by Kurt Vonnegut and Priceless by Robert K. Wittman. I just started the Vonnegut novel, am enjoying it and hope to be writing again on it after Christmas!

Lulu hanging out with me in the bedroom. Apparently, she finds me très fascinating... loves to stare at me while I fix my hair and iron my clothes or type on the laptop. Here she was staring off into the empty closet as if she'd just seen something.
Pretty sweets from one of my favorite downtown
confectionery stores, Fugetsu-Do.

Breathe Life Upon These Dry Bones... Discreetly hidden street art over
the water valves of the Los Angeles Police Department.

Poster advertising MOCA's current exhibit Naked Hollywood, Weegee in Los Angeles. Said to be the first museum exhibition devoted to the work Weegee produced in Southern California. Hoping to catch it before it ends in February!
Little puppy fruit tart from Yamazaki Bakery in Little Tokyo.
They're as cute as they are tasty and a steal at $1.40. Lastly, have you seen St. Vincent's performance of Surgeon on 4AD? Out since October but I can't stop playing it...

♥ Hope you're having a great new week mis amores! ♥

On the subject of Christmas Music

2011-10-10T13:37:00.000-07:00

Had Halloween in mind and was set to scare and then She & Him announced the release and free download of The Christmas Waltz. The song is off their new scheduled to be released at the end of the month A Very She & Him Christmas and it's a lovely Christmas song... can't wait for the album. Did I mention it's a free download? Free is almost always good.

Thank you to Pitchfork.

Time is hard to kill

2011-10-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

TOP to BOTTOM: (1+2) Clifton's Cafeteria a few Saturday's ago. Have you ever been? It was where we would go on Sunday's when we were kids. I have a nostalgic fondness, but the inside is pretty amazing. It's was designed to be reminiscent of California Redwood groves with waterfalls and brooks but had fallen to disrepair over the years, then in 2009 they began restoring it. We hadn't seen it since the renovations started but loved that it hadn't really changed very much. It just looks cleaner and with better lighting so far and the food was as great as we remembered it (3) Clifton's chocolate-banana cake. My brother's dessert of choice when we eat there (4+5) Vintage paperbacks at The Last Bookstore and my $4 Gypsy Rose Lee find. It was one of my favorite movies growing up... because of this film my Barbies were often burlesque dancers by trade (6) From A Nation Emerges exhibit at the Central Library. A collection of photographs chronicling Mexico's revolution from 1910 to 1912, and in the photo is a female solider (soldadera) ca.1912. Like how proud and eager the men are to be photographed with the soldadera and how confident the woman is (7) Little Lulu is too hyper to photograph and I'm not sure if you can tell from here, but her little white parts are sort of gray from the ash in the fireplace she likes to break into. LASTLY, Little Numbers by the band Boy off the album Mutual Friends (2011). Have you heard it? A happy song with not so happy lyrics... there's clapping involved.

PS. Thanks to my friend Brandi of This B Life I'm addicted to Pinterest. Do you have one? If so, please leave me a link so I can follow! If you don't, but would like one, leave me an email address so I can send you an invite. Besos+wishes for a great new week mis amores! ♥

Few etsy loves and a song about hearts

2011-09-10T14:17:00.000-07:00

Crochet Collar | TwoKnit

Art Gun Girl Target Collage | DadaDreams

Beaded Bead Ring | SarahRobinL

Italian lace up | MyFavoriteVintage

Fox Hat | Vaivanat

Wall Tentacle | ArtAkimbo

Below, Flock of Hearts performed by the Phoenix Foundation off the album Buffalo (2011). It's my most favorite song this week and it was sent to me by my friend Thomas who makes a mean mixed tape. Today we have what looks like Fall weather here, and though I do love summer I have to say the small break from the heat has been nice. Has me thinking of Halloween and costumes and changing leaves. It's gonna be a good one... can tell already.

⚓ Wishing you a great weekend! ⚓

This week

2011-08-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

TOP to BOTTOM: (1) Lulu and me hanging out (2) Pistachio Macaron from Frances Bakery in Little Tokyo (3) My friend Scott... I love the patterns on his ties (4) George makes blogging hard + borrowed Gymnast wallpaper by artist Julie Morstad (5+6+7) Captured Space Invader, a bit of Wish you were here by artist Mode 2 and some hazmat golf by Banksy. All are from the MOCA Art in the Streets exhibit that ends tomorrow. If you haven't seen it yet and you're in the area you should try to stop by! It's FREE on Monday (8) Glass of Delirium Tremens at Wurstküche. The beer name means a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that involves sudden and severe mental or neurological changes... funny! LASTLY, have you seen the trailer to Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life? It opens here at limited engagements on the 31st. Looks très fascinant!♥

⚓ Wishes for a great new week mis amores! ⚓

Baby, baby, where do you want to go?

2011-07-31T21:56:00.000-07:00

While I like Do You Really Wanna Know by the band Papercuts the love shines a little brighter for their music video by director David Enos. Fascinating to watch. It plays a little like a tribute to Cindy Sherman, Suspiria and Nancy Drew... but with animal masks and a party in a pretty Spanish style loft and a fight with a werewolf somewhere in the middle.

PS. Visit the Subpop website *HERE* for a
free official (and non-illegal) download of the song.♥

Slow-Readers Unite

2011-07-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

Hello fellow SlowReaders! Have you started on the new summer reads yet? There are two for us to tackle this season. The first (shown above) is Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel S.F. Heller and the second (not shown since I haven't bought it yet) is The Cry of the Go-Away Bird by Andrea Eames. I just started reading Attached, but am really enjoying it so far. I want to say it's the first real self-help book I've read in a VERY long time and it makes me think I should be reading more of them. Remember to visit the SlowReaders official Facebook page *HERE* to get the latest on what the club is doing and reading and to share on your club posts and what you think of the books. Also, below are a few more slow readers to help inspire from LifeWithMaggie.♥

Ramón Casas | Jove Decadent

Sigmund Walter Hampel | Silent Hours

Emma Fordyce MacRae | Melina in Green

Carl Larsson | Woman Lying On A Bench
♥
PS. Hope you're having a great week... not too hot,
no too cold and with minimal amounts of stress.

Camera Obscura

2011-07-22T22:07:00.000-07:00

Few photos from a recent visit to Santa Monica and my first time seeing their camera obscura in action. It was kind of tricky to get to it, there's the big sign (shown above) but we walked around looking for the entrance and all we kept seeing were community senior citizen center signs. Finally we saw an almost hidden sign with an arrow pointing up with Camera Obscura and something about asking for the key inside. So we went inside the center (asked) and found a small room on the second floor with a white table at it's center where the camera projects and with a ship wheel at it's side to turn and control the camera. I left wishing I had one of these at home... for spying mostly? That and everything looks sort of magical and blurry when it's projected. Also, I'm sure a camera obscura will come in handy when the Zombies attack (I'm in the middle of reading a zombie book right now).

Top and Bottom: Camera views of beach.

The wheel that controlled the camera.

This was the non-camera obscura view of the beach that day.

We had these on the boardwalk, I ♥ Fries.

Lastly, the band Camera Obscura sings Rod Stewart.
Have you heard it before? It's lovely!

PS. for more on the Santa Monica Camera Obscura be sure to visit *HERE* ALSO wishes for a wonderful weekend mis amores... I'm so glad it finally arrived. ⚓

Songs he wrote

2011-07-09T10:40:00.000-07:00

I love Lecube's voice and what he sings. His new album, A collection of songs he wrote, was a gift from my friend Laure. Have you heard it yet? If not, be sure to head over to his bandcamp page *HERE* where you can play, share or buy the entire album... or you can just click play below to hear my favorite song November!

november by lecube

PS. Hope you're having a great weekend. So hot here, but still liking it.♥

Jena Ardell

2011-07-02T20:33:00.000-07:00

Diving Board | Self Portrait

A Drink | Self Portrait

Hommage | Summer Love

Headband | Second Childhood

Bumblebee | Daydreams

Sinking | Life's a Beach

Summer Love Hotdogs | Food Series

Suck It Hotdog | Food Series

Generally I try not to complain about the weather, but I have to confess I really missed summer. Missed warm days, cool nights, BBQ's and wearing shoes where I can see my toes... also, that sense of optimistic fun that seems to come with the season. And in keeping is the work of Jena Ardell who magically captures endless and timeless summers in her work. Her Polaroids make me crave a hot dog and a swim.
♥
For more Ardell be sure to visit JenaArdell.com
She also has a Facebook | Flickr | Blog | and Etsy.

[ALL POST IMAGES COPYRIGHT © 2010 JENA ARDELL]

I got a little place I go away

2011-06-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

It's slightly reminiscent of She & Him, but I'm in love with Let's Go Away by the band Chalk and Numbers. And as if a good song and cute video weren't enough they've also generously given up the entire ep for FREE digital download through Bandcamp *HERE*... get it today! Also be sure to visit their very official Facebook *HERE* to show'em some like.

PS.
⚓ Hope you're having a wonderful week ⚓
I'm kind of excited about summer right now! ♥

This week

2011-05-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

Top to Bottom: (1) So behind in posting on the newest Slow Readers Book Club read, but this is it... Finny by Justin Kramon. It's my most favorite pick from the club so far. Described as a coming of age story, but it's definitely more than that. Romantic but realistic. Sweet, but not saccharine. Highly recommended if you haven't read it yet! Also, if you haven't joined the club yet, be sure to visit the very official forum *HERE* and/or the Facebook page *HERE* (2) Never seen a white haired Kokeshi before I think (3) Young Secretary by artist Chaily Karubian at the Via Café in Chinatown. I searched for the artist online and didn't find anything. Possible they gave me the wrong name (4) Flyer for Soul Sessions! at the Grand Star. I love the photo they used, doesn't the guy on the floor just make it look like fun? (5) Pretty cream puffs only $2.50 each (6) Our first raspberries... hope the little birds don't beat me to them! (7) Blue parakeet basking in the sun (8) Vampire Cat tee at PopKiller in Little Tokyo (9) Baby Lulu, the newest pet member to the family. As you can see she has super powers and crazy eyes... we're pretty much infatuated with her now, except for George, who isn't all that happy about it yet...

♥♥♥ Hope you're having a great month of May! ♥♥♥

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite photos of my mother and me. I was about 2 years old and we were at the Pasadena Rose Parade. Know I sound so spoiled here, but part of why I'm fond of this photo is because of the look on my mom's beautiful face... can you see how much she loves me? Spoiled by an amazing and loving mother. Hope you're having a wonderful Sunday mis amores! ♥

Cat Secretaries and a song by the Beach Boys

2011-04-18T20:47:00.000-07:00

Very much in love with RosieMusic's feline inspired illustration of Secretary. I adore her version of a cat woman. Not the vampy cool Batman and Robin variety, but this bit more mundane and wonderfully feminine pencil carrying high-collar wearing type. Below are some inspired etsy finds (and personal wants) to keep her company, I'm waiting till next week and then I'm buying at least two of these... (1) Cats in Black Skirt by ProtoTypeDesign (2) Eye Folding Lorgnette from VintageBitsBlitz (3) Typewriter Pendant by LunaShineShine (4) Cat Pattern Dress by CeiCeiStudio.

Lastly, on a non-cat secretary subject is a short video of She & Him covering The Beach Boy's Wouldn't it be nice. Beginning of the song is a little cut off but so great just the same! ♡

☁ Sending you wishes for a nice new week! ☁

March

2011-04-03T20:11:00.000-07:00

Top to Bottom: (1) Downtown view after a rainy day (2) Publicly displayed piece at the Geffen Contemporary building in Little Tokyo by Parisian street artist JR. Work is part of an artwork project entitled The Wrinkles of The City currently being unveiled at various locations around LA and part of MOCA’s upcoming exhibition Art in the Streets (3) Little orchids finally in bloom after months of worrying that they wouldn't (4) Lunch with artist Laure Briard, I wrote about her a few years ago *HERE* and I had the amazing privilege of meeting her for the first time this last month. We ate at Shabu Shabu in Little Tokyo where we had to cook our meal in a pot of boiling water... Fun! (5) Cute graffiti spotted on a broken and boarded up window on the way home last week (6) The first spotting of summer fruit at our favorite farmers market (7) Little Buddha found at the Plum Blossom shop in Chinatown. Isn't he adorable? (8) Sleeping hamster photo taken at a pet shop a few weeks ago when I went to buy fat George his food (9) American Apparel factory and their show of solidarity toward immigrants and their plight.

Wishes for a lovely new month mis amores! ♥

A Place In The Sun

2011-03-23T19:50:00.000-07:00

Mourning Elizabeth Taylor, arguably the last great female star of the studio system, who has died today at the age of 79. The actor died peacefully in Cedars-Sinai hospital in Los Angeles. Taken to the hospital six weeks ago with congestive heart failure, a condition with which she had struggled for many years. Taylor's children were at her side at the time of her death. Famed for her luminous beauty and stormy personal life, Taylor appeared in more than 50 films. She also championed charitable causes, notably the fight against Aids. After Hudson's death she founded the Elizabeth Taylor Aids Foundation and spoke out at a time when many were afraid to. Taylor was born on 27 February 1932, in London, the daughter of two wealthy American art dealers, Francis and Sara Taylor. The family moved to America just after the second world war began and settled in Los Angeles where her mother, a former actor, encouraged her daughter's career. It was a career that made her a star at 12, a bride and a divorcee at 18 and a widow at 26. Asked in 1999 what she would like to see written on her gravestone, Taylor replied: "Here lies Elizabeth. She hated being called Liz. But she lived."

For more on the Guardian UK article quoted above be sure to visit *HERE*.
Photo of Elizabeth courtesy of my friend Billie.
Video is one of my favorite scenes from 'A Place In The Sun' (1951).
Film to break the heart.

I'm happy, hope you're happy too

2011-02-05T12:04:00.000-08:00

The camera has stayed in it's bag for the most part this week. There's a paper-cut on my left index finger that makes it impossible to type and so work at my pay the bills job is behind behind, but my ears have been having a small party thanks to some cds that my friend Nathan made for me on Monday... thank you Nathan! Today I fell in love with Warpaint for the first time (Thanks to my friend Thomas). Late, I know. Also very much enamored with the tattoo work of Guy le Tatooer (shown above). I have no tattoos but think if I were to get one I might have to go to Toulouse to find him. How was your week? Hope it was good and without any paper-cuts. ♥

Post title courtesy of Bowie and his Ashes to Ashes lyrics and for more
on Guy le Tatooer and his work be sure to stop by and visit his blog *HERE*
or you can also befriend/cyber-stalk him on his facebook *HERE*.

January

2011-01-30T16:27:00.000-08:00

Top to Bottom: (1) After sitting for years on my bookshelf, I finally finished reading Kate Chopin's The Awakening. It was bought at a Goodwill store through the recommendation of a friend who was there shopping with me that day. Such a dork for taking so long in reading it. Loved it very much despite it's sad theme of love, oppression and the need for freedom (2+3+4) All taken last Saturday at the Griffith Observatory. My first time visiting since they closed down to remodel in 2002. It's one of my favorite places to visit in the city, not just because of it's views but also because I have good memories of visiting as a kid (5) A bus we spot almost every morning on the way in to work. Not sure where it goes, but fan of it's pretty paint job. Wonder who gets to ride in it since it's always empty when I see it? (6) One of my favorite easy-to-make comfort foods. Grilled cheese sandwiches on sourdough with sharp cheddar and lots of butter when toasting (7) Sometime in the summer the flowers on my orchid died. I asked the man who keeps the orchid stand at the farmers market we visit almost every week what to do, and he told me to trim the stem of the dead orchid about half way and that in 4 months I would have new ones... and it worked! These little buds just started growing this last week. Can't wait to see how they turn out. Know I probably sound like an idiot here, but plants tend to die on me (8) George was sick this weekend? I'm not sure why? He didn't eat anything out of the ordinary, but he seems better now, so I'm hoping it was just hairballs.. gross, I know, sorry!

Wishing you a great new week! ♥

Bright and eerie, picture-perfection

2011-01-20T21:01:00.000-08:00

Fans of Bryce Dallas Howard and photographer Alex Prager, have you seen Despair yet? Found today when I followed a great link left by Brandi of This B Life. According to Prager, Despair was conceived as a living, full-sensory version of her photographic work. Thank you again to the awesome Brandi for the link! ♥

For more on Alex Prager and her work
be sure to stop by and visit her website *HERE*
+ you can also follow her tweets *HERE*.
♥

I ♥ DFA!

2011-01-19T21:17:00.000-08:00

Completely geeked out right now and probably a little too excited over the Death From Above 1979 reunion announced today for this years Coachella Music Festival. Got to see them in 2005 at the El Rey and it was one of the best concerts I've ever been to... below is the only photo we took that night. A little grainy but it's a favorite of mine. And while I'm definitely not braving the Indio heat to see them at the festival, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for some added concerts!

Below, a live performance of Romantic Rights.

So tell me, are you having a decent week?
Hoping you'll answer in the affirmative ♥

Cowgirl Love

2011-01-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

Not sure how this works being that I grew up in Los Angeles and really don't listen to country music unless you count the occasional Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash, but I do have a small infatuation when it comes to most things Cowgirl related (more kitsch the better). Think it might stem from watching Calamity Jane too many times as a kid? Well, in keeping with this like of mine, have to share how much I love this video directed by Jon Watts to the Dawn Landes single Young Girl off the album Sweet Heart Rodeo. It's been out for almost a year now, so you might've seen it already... but just in case you haven't!

PS. Free download of live recording is available at HearYa.com.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T14:21:00.000-08:00

Not in hurry to see 2010 leave... it was sort of a good one for me. There were troubles, but along with that there were good changes and laughs and fun times with friends and family that won't be forgotten. And although I'm not a fan of resolutions I do have positive feelings when it comes to 2011 and in keeping with my obsessive compulsive disorders, I have to say it's bound to be a great one. Double digits are a lucky number and in my sick little head and there's nothing prettier than an 11. Wishing YOU a wonderful NEW Year full of all you need and want in life mis amores! Hugs and kisses heading your way...♥

Christmas

2010-12-25T16:00:00.000-08:00

George who decided to wrap himself up as a gift this year...

Rain that stopped just in time for the Holiday

The tamales we made for dinner

Tiny poinsettia that's grown out of gorgeous control

To little piano playing mouse ornaments...

♥♡♥ Wishing you and yours a very HAPPY one mis amores! ♥♡♥

Love and Lust

2010-12-21T22:45:00.000-08:00

Above, dtla street art and below a tiny heart sent to me by
my friend Anna of MuchLove... you're amazing Anna, Thank you! ♥

Celebrating my friend Scott's birthday with chocolate mousse, he's 32 now.

We went to buy our tree and it felt like Christmas.

Prosciutto panini from Portofino's.

Cupcake Love

Hasn't stopped raining since Friday and not complaining, but
it definitely doesn't feel natural here in Los Angeles...

Lastly, have you seen the trailer to the film Simon Werner a Disparu? Soundtrack is by Sonic Youth and sounds great from the bits heard on the trailers. Cd is set to be released on February 15th and the digital download is being released on January 25th through Midheaven.com. Can't wait to hear and see!

Hope you're having a good week... ♥

Bubblegum

2010-12-19T10:30:00.000-08:00

Bubblegum by Clinic
Directed by Alasdair & Jock
Animated by Trunk Animation LTD.

Keep imagining fat George in a dress and bobby socks... ♥

Thomas Allen

2010-12-04T11:15:00.000-08:00

Pulp Photography and Paperdolls...

Uplift, 2004

Fanthom, 2005

Spring, 2004

Wish, 2006

Spar, 2002

Unreachable, 2009

Red, 2002

Gravity, 2005

Gripping, 2007

Above Floored and below, Outbreak, both 2009

For more on Thomas Allen and his work
be sure to stop by and visit his BLOG
or maybe grab his BOOK!

November...

2010-11-27T09:30:00.000-08:00

(Read and LOVED)

In the early part of the twentieth century, a Jewish girl from Poland, in the United States only weeks, went to a dinner party in Brooklyn. As she entered the house, a young man was putting on his coat to leave. When he saw the young woman coming through the door, he promptly removed his coat. Before the end of the night, he asked her to take a walk on the Brooklyn Bridge, and she accepted. As they stood together, overlooking the wide expanse of Manhattan and Brooklyn and the East River, he proposed marriage. She accepted that too.

~from BRIDGES by Joanna Hershon,
of Brooklyn Was Mine

Book had me thinking of New York, my own city and also of my friend Thomas who went with me to New York about three years ago. Above is a Brooklyn Bridge view captured by him on our trip and below one by me of him eating a hot dog at Battery Park.

Also this month I fell in love with Pinkberry's
pumpkin with pomegranate and cinnamon...

Persimmons...

Shorter days...

...turning 36 (Ambrosia Cake by my sister Anna!)

Thanksgiving Sweet Potatoes (also by Anna)...
Actually, this is an ongoing love affair.

My owl drawing by artist Nicole Aline Legault. Part of the Kitty Stampede giveaway prize that I was lucky enough to win in September...Thank you again K♥, it's a treasure!

Lastly, can't stop playing Jónsi's 'Go Do'...
So happy, makes me want to GO DO things too!

Hope you had a nice November also!
December is going to be great, can tell already... ♥

Turning Two...

2010-11-10T20:30:00.000-08:00

This week Ada turned two. Two years of traveling the world, visiting beautiful and often famous places. Eating the most exotic foods (ok not really, but let's pretend). Photographed countless times, in the homes of strangers (now dear friends) and some really rather famous landmarks. Ada, who was here with me this last summer, may not be alive by conventional standards, but I can tell you from personal experience that she brings life with her upon visit... the thrill of seeing her in person for the first time, and the challenge of taking her boldly out in public to photograph. Fun! So this post of favorite photos I borrowed from Ada's blog and facebook, is a way of saying Happy Anniversary to Ada and Thank You to Adeline for starting this project. Also, to share on a wonderful giveaway Adeline is having to honor the date. It's a great collaborative prize, be sure to enter *HERE* today! ♥

One of my favorite areas of Los Angeles...

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

As kids, mom would take my sister and I to visit regularly. Like many in the 70's she was a huge fan of Kung-fu films. Most of the films were in Chinese (sans subtitles) but it hardly mattered, you got the gist of it with all the good fighting. Also, we loved the food. There were two restaurants we'd visit most (both long gone now). First had a formal dining atmosphere to it but I remember the noodles most and lots of exploring and running around. My sister and I would use the excuse of visiting the ladies room to go explore the restaurant and hallways that led to the kitchen area. People and noises were fascinating to us. The second restaurant was a smaller one run by brothers. There were at least 3 or 4 of them, huge sumo wrestler sized guys who made the most delicious duck noodle soup in the world. Seriously, even now, as an adult I remember that soup... and I was pretty finicky about food at that age. These were the eateries of choice and after dinner she’d take us to the little Chinese novelty shops for browsing; we'd always surface with some kind of tiny treasure. Miniature Chinese tea sets, little change purses sporting the Chinatown logo... all things aimed at tourists. In a particular plaza there was a trained monkey who’d dance to the music of his partner's hand-cranked Victrola while he played the accordion. When he’d finish his performance he'd walk up to his squealing and cheering audience with a small hat to collect money… well, maybe it was just me and my sis squealing? Definitely was a wonder though. Lastly, there was Chinese New Year. Every year our mom would take us to see the parade. Remember the first time I caught sight of a dancing dragon parading down the street, fearsome and beautiful at once! Drums pounding, the dragon weaving up and down as it traversed it’s route, firecrackers popping everywhere, bells jingling... a cacophony that made your heart pound! So there you have it, those are all the nostalgic reasons behind my love of Chinatown, and on this post are some photos taken on a recent visit. It was during the day, so the nightlife isn't captured, but the day time shopping is. Many of the shops have disappeared over the years so the scene has changed. They've been replaced by a number of art galleries and a new generation of shops, but it's definitely not a bad thing. It gives us a new wave of treasures to find...

Flock Shop
943 N. Broadway, #103
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Krokeshi Dolls by Emi Motokawa

Fong's
943 Chung King Rd
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Miniatures!

Guarding the Pepin Moore gallery...

♥♥♥

Excuses, apologies, young goats & dirty girls...

2010-10-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

I'm a flake and a jerk. I know. But I swear, real life pay the rent work has been a drag lately... it's made my bloggy life nearly impossible. But you should know that I miss you and I plan on visiting you soon! Have I mentioned that I'm sorry? I know, you've heard it before... but in a rather feeble attempt to distract and act normal despite being gone these days I'm posting on a can't stop playing it song of mine by Odisea (Odyssey in Spanish) the new project of Chilean artist Alex Anwandter. Song is entitled Cabros which is Chilean slang for boy or young man, there's also something in the lyrics on niña cochina (dirty girl) and being alone in my city. I love the lyrics. And I love the video and I love the song. Lots of love here.

Why is it that pretty boys make such pretty songs?

PS. If you're not completely sick of me you should head over to visit Galit's (doesn't she have the most amazing name?) lovely blog SlowLane:Notes... there's a guest post that I had the honor of being part of this week! ♥

On the subject of Bill

2010-10-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

Little on the Bill Murray exhibit we visited last weekend...
loved seeing my boyfriend all over the gallery!

The Sailor | Emily Hart Wood

Breakfast With Bill | Jess Sluder

Party With Bill | Cody Comrie

Suntory Times | Pamela Jewell

This last one isn't Bill related, but the spray-painted heart was found outside of the R&R Gallery and is my submission to Anna's Much Love Monday! Also, thank you and much love for all the comments. It's always nice to hear from you! ♥

Happy Birthday to (my boyfriend) Bill!!

2010-09-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

Today he turns 60 and although I don't have an autographed photo, a lock of his hair or anything nearly good and stalker'ish enough to share with you... I do have these stickers that my friend Scott gave me a few months ago. Designed by artist Tim Doyle and sold as a set *HERE*. There's six in the series entitled Murray Times Six! but these four are favorites.

(For relaxing times, make it Suntory time)

Continuing the Murray obsession, we plan to visit the R&R Gallery in Downtown Los Angeles this next weekend. They just opened an exhibit of Bill Murray inspired work with over 50 artists as contributors. Work is said to be tribute to his film personas as well as the actor himself. Scott found the exhibit also. He's an enabler. I'm working up the courage to photograph like a tourist when I visit. Flyer with information on the exhibit and the artists shown below just in case you happen to be in the area! Currently open 5-9pm daily.

Lastly, a short clip of Bill singing... ♥
more than this, you know there's nothing.

♥ Hope you're having a great week mis amores! ♥
Sorry for sort of being gone these last two weeks.
It's been hectic, not bad... just so busy!

Jenny's People of Paper and Leaf

2010-09-14T20:31:00.000-07:00

Created with an artful eye and terribly sharp scissors...

For more on Jenny Lee Fowler and her work
be sure to stop by and visit her
Flickr, BLOG and Etsy.
And if in NY, she gives lessons *HERE*!

Chloé of Paris

2010-09-09T20:30:00.000-07:00

About 6 years ago Chloé and I became MySpace friends. She was the first girl I'd ever met who liked so many of the same things that my sis and I loved and grew up on. Seemingly frivolous things, like films and books and music. Things that, despite of how shallow it may sound, seem to have become a big part of what we call likes in life. It's clear now that there's a whole army of us, but at the time my friend Chloé was (and still is now really) mind boggling to me. She’s also the reason I started to blog. She started hers over a year before I started doing the same, wasn't completely biting... though guess maybe I was? She sort of kept telling me to start one, and when Chloé tells you do something you can’t help but think it's a good idea. Above+below, photos of the it girl and her adorable CANCAN. ♥

Also, photos and a video from her current project as coordinator and producer of Cabaret and Burlesque Revues. Many are in Paris but they are also held in various other cities. Would LOVE to attend one... gorgeous and glamorous, very Chloé like!

For more on Chloé Van Paris et
the Burlesque Revues be sure to vist her
Facebook, BLOG and MySpace!

♥

Grand Winner!!

2010-09-07T11:17:00.000-07:00

☆ Congratulations to Keana (#12) ☆

The grand winner of the Moxsie Laura Bag GIVEAWAY! Keana, you didn't leave an email address? My email address is felinofelice@ymail, hope to hear from you soon otherwise I may have to random.org it again?! Also, THANK YOU to everyone who entered and commented and to Moxsie for their generosity. Be sure to stop by their amazing shop! Another giveaway is coming SOON... ♥

('Pattern' collage photo by Kollage Kid)

Shadows of the Week

2010-09-05T07:32:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the talented Tracey ♥
and her wonderful Shadow Gallery project!

Submissions: (1) George snooping out the window at our neighbors cat, his biggest obsession next to the mail carrier (2) Rather be Tap Dancing license was spotted on the way to work Monday morning. Laughed when I read it and yelled to my sis, ME TOO! Don't know how to tap dance, but had a tiny yet spectacular Busby Berkeley daydream because of it (3) Kewpie from one of my favorite shops in Little Tokyo. HUGE and had the cutest face, not sure if she was on sale? (4) Share on the necklace I was lucky enough to win through Rita's Valium & Cherry Wine. This is the pretty way it arrived and to see the mustache necklace of mine in action be sure to stop by Adeline's ('case you haven't already) (5) Sundae at the Grove. Love walking around with something small, cold and sweet in hand on a warm summer night (6) Lanterns from my sister's backyard. They were our $2 find (7) Summer Crossing by Truman Capote. Given to me by my friend Thomas. Beautiful cover and good (though short) read.

♥ Hope you're having a great Sunday! ♥

I give you all my love, but my heart itself is broken.

2010-08-31T22:20:00.000-07:00

Have you gone by for a preview of the Walkmen's new album Lisbon yet? It's not set to be released till the 14th of September but NPR has it available for FREE streaming *HERE*. Below is a live performance of Blue As Your Blood (song from the new album) at the NY Public Library and also there's an official FREE link *HERE* where you can download Stranded (another new track off the album). Won't be disappointed if you're a fan I think... ♥

Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still.

2010-08-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

This week my friend Adeline included me in her Photographic Diaries project. She has an amazing and seemingly effortless way of organizing some truly unique and cool projects (ie: Ada the Globe Trotting Doll and The Talking Trees). The photographic diaries required only 4 things... An answer to the hard question of why do you photograph? A self portrait, a photo which expresses a love and lastly a photo of details in your life. Easy to the normal person, but not so much to the slightly obsessive compulsive like me! Be sure to stop by Adeline's Lady Croissant Blog *HERE* to see my submission. And thank you again gorgeous Adeline for letting me be a part of it! Also, there's a tie-in here with all the photobooth pic's you see on this post. So you should go for a look-see if only to find out what it is... ♥

Photograph Sources: Finger in Mouth by Swapatorium, Little bunnies fool fool by Jek in the Box, a Young Lady by ATypicalArt, The Two Sides of Margaret, Bunny and Photobooth also by Swapatorium.
Post Title: Quote by American Photographer Dorothea Lange.

Grand Winner

2010-08-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

☆ Congratulations to Carly (#6) ☆

The grand winner of the Love is in the Air shopper tote, Rabbit and Flowers charm necklace and Fortune-Telling Book of Names GIVEAWAY! Thank you to everyone who entered and commented. Promise to have another giveaway soon... sometime near Halloween (We ♥ Halloween!) but for now be sure to enter the Moxsie GIVEAWAY if you haven't already. Who can't use a gorgeously stylish vegan bag? Also, hope you're having an excellent Saturday! I've overslept, but the goal is now to get some errands done... ♥

(What Would Devo Do? sticker designed by Nate Manny)

Farmers Market

2010-08-26T21:23:00.000-07:00

Our favorite place to spend a Thursday afternoon...

The black ones came home with me.

We ♥ Free Samples...
Goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes,
olive oil and garlic on a pita chip.

Expert advice on all things Orchid related.

Hard to find a table!

(We brought our own drinks)

Shares Scott (the Bunny)'s stage name... ♥

Candy apples with chili powder.... I wasn't brave enough!

(Visit *HERE* for more on the LA City Hall Farmers Market)

♥ Wishing you a great weekend! ♥

Holly Andres

2010-08-25T21:09:00.000-07:00

Amber, 2006

Paper dolls, sulking and Nancy Drew mysteries. Reminds me of my childhood... 'The reoccurring themes in my work explore the experiences in my life that have impacted and constructed my identity. I am interested in revisiting, recreating and preserving that history, but am especially fascinated with the interweaving of fact and fiction, and finding a place which autobiography and fictitious narration come together.'

Installation Series, 2008

Fiona II, 2006

Installation Series, 2008

The Missing Bird, 2008

Installation Series, 2008

Photos and quote courtesy of HollyAndres.com

If you want something bad, you have to fight for it...

2010-08-23T17:00:00.000-07:00

(Ramona by Beck... Click Play!)

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)
Directed by Edgar Wright (Director of 'Shaun of the Dead')
and Soundtrack Produced by Nigel Godrich
(Famed producer of all Radiohead albums and some of Beck)

Went to see and fell in love with this film over the weekend. Sweet and funny and strange... with comic and video game references galore. I know, sounds like a train wreck to the non-nerd, which I am not (tricky double negative!) but swear it wasn't. Also an amazing soundtrack with original songs by Beck, Broken Social Scene and Nigel himself.

Did you have a nice weekend too?
Was there a good movie involved? ♥

-Small Retraction-
My friend Thomas wrote to me with the following... please forgive me... i have to say this: nigel godrich has not produced all radiohead albums; he has produced all radiohead albums except pablo honey. he has produced all since the bends. i'm sorry. :)' so there you have it. Not all. Thank you my Thomas, LOVE YOU!

Age of Adolescence

2010-08-22T15:35:00.000-07:00

(4 girls in white shirts)

Joseph Sterling, Photographs 1959 - 1964

'Time of drives: sexual, emotional and vehicular. Age that sparkles with the promise of what's to come, hides its insecurities under the cover of bravado, and trembles with excitement about the here and now. From 1959 to 1964 (arguably the adolescence of America) Sterling photographed teenagers, mostly in and around Chicago...'

(group of girls looking over shoulders)

(getting tattoo)

(girls smoking)

(untitled)

(heads in towel)

(guys leaning out of car)

(soda fountain)

(black pants on beach)

Photos courtesy of Stephen Daiter Gallery and quote by David Travis.

I would forget the world for you...

2010-08-20T06:15:00.000-07:00

Limerick Sandwiches at the Chado Tea Room. Prettiest thing I had to eat this week! English cucumbers served on buttered bread then decorated with cream cheese and green onions. Below, flowering tea and model assist by my sis... reminds me of Marie Antoinette.

(Also) A happy song for the end of the week...
my heartbeat, beat like a tom tom!

♥ Wishing you a wonderful weekend ♥

It was the best dream in the history of dreams...

2010-08-19T19:07:00.000-07:00

I'm Here is a 30-minute love story about the relationship between two robots living in L.A. The film is written and directed by Spike Jonze. Andrew Garfield and Sienna Guillory are in the lead roles, and the soundtrack includes original music by Sam Spiegel and original songs by L.A.-based art musician Aska Matsumiya and other emerging musicians.

The film has been available for free viewing *HERE* since March.

There Are Many of Us by Aska Matsumiya and the film trailer...

Thank you Louie for sharing this!♥

Isn’t Moxsie just a good word? (+Giveaway!)

2010-08-16T19:07:00.000-07:00

Happy and excited to introduce (in case you’re not familiar already) a new sponsor in Moxsie! An online shop whose focus is on showcasing unique and superior independent designers who create with pride and (who like you and me) care about the world. Animal friendly, no fur or products made from endangered or threatened animals and they donate a portion of their proceeds to charity (List of charities available *HERE*). Free shipping and returns within the US (I ♥ free shipping!) and guarantee quality in construction in all that they sell. Don’t they sound great? Here are a few of my shop faves…

(Matiko)

(Tulle)

(Made Jewelry + Miss Wax)

(Hellz Bellz)

(Mimoco)

And now the GIVEAWAY!

The prize is a Laura Shoulder Bag in Black from the the Melie Bianco line... founded in 2003 by the husband and wife team of Melissa and William with the goal of designing bags that reflect the season’s trends, but within a working woman's budget. Also perfect for lovers of vegan materials and high-quality faux-leather. TO ENTER you simply have to visit Moxsie and tell us what else you love from the shop in the comments section of this post. Unfortunately this is only open to US Residents (sorry oversea friends!) A blog is not required, just be sure to leave a comment and an email address where you can be reached. The giveaway ends Monday, September 6th at 11am, the winner will be chosen via Random.org. FOR ADDITIONAL ENTRIES you can also blog or 'tweet' about this (leave a comment with the link of what you posted please) also if you ‘like’ Moxsie on Facebook by clicking *HERE* or become a follower of Moxsie on Twitter by visiting *HERE*. Please leave additional comment(s) on this post to up your chances. Decide to do all 4? Be sure to leave 4 extra comments! Best of luck mis amores…♥ Wish I could enter this one myself!

Lastly, a song to commemorate the giveaway...
(if you read the bag description the reference makes sense!)

I'll never let you go, Never, never, never...

2010-08-15T14:15:00.000-07:00

Leave Her to Heaven (1945)
Directed by John M. Stahl,
starring Gene Tierney, Cornel Wilde,
Jeanne Crain and Vincent Price.

Don't want to spoil the film for you (in case you haven't seen it already) so I won't give away all that much, but will share that the plot is nice and twisty and noir and the acting is great (Tierney received an Oscar nomination for it) and nearly every frame is a technicolor masterpiece. All was first introduced to me by my friend Chloé.♥

Inspired Etsy Finds... ♥

Left to Right (From Top): Bingo Party Hat by BeckyKazana, Blue Chantilly Lace Dress by RaleighVintage, Grey Evan Picone Blazer by HMVintageClothing, Embroidered Rose Cowboy Hat by JessJamesJake, Buttercream Lace Dress by JessJamesJake, 1950s All the Frills Sheer Blouse by RaleighVintage, Chanel Lipstick by EmmaKisstina, 1950's-60's Asian Peach Dress by AdelaideHomesewn, 1950s/1960s Style Dress and Jacket by AlpenglowVintage.

(Giveaway)

2010-08-11T00:17:00.000-07:00

Hi! ♥

Are you having a nice week? Mine is going so much better than last, allergies called a truce and to celebrate I'm having a small giveaway! The prize consists of a 'Love is in the Air' shopper tote, 'Rabbit and Flowers' charm necklace put together by yours truly and (in honor of all things superstitious) a 'Fortune-Telling Book of Names'. To Enter all you have to do is leave me a comment here, open to anyone! Winner will be chosen via random.org on Saturday, August the 28th. Hope you'll enter! Also, thank you to everyone for the sweet feel better comments... amazing comfort in kind words. ♥

Old photos, new dolls,and songs about being on fire...

2010-08-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

Sorry for being sort of gone this week, allergies decided to stage a comeback and the medications leave me dizzy and a little like a zombie. Hoping it'll go away soon, really does suck. But on a happier note, wanted to share a little on few things generally not connected...

First, there's a giveaway by Adeline of Lady Croissant now through the 15th of August. Giveaway is of a Baby Blue doll and Polaroid camera. Ada (Baby Blue's globetrotting sis) as you might remember came by to visit me a few weeks ago and aside from being a pleasure to take around the city, she was also quite a unique doll. Would love to have one to keep! The giveaway is simple, Adeline asks only for a comment... and if you'd like to up your chances you can blog, tweet or create a talking tree to do so. Be sure to *CLICK HERE* for more info.

Also sharing a few old family photos, all taken by my dad who now that I think of it is probably where I get my love of photographing stuff from. The first photo is of my mom in Ensenada, the second (the photo I use as my blog header) is of my sister Anna running with a little boy who we aren't too sure about anymore, possibly a neighbor maybe? And the third is of one of my dad's cars. He was a car guy. The car was green and my mom swears it was a Pontiac, but I'm not much of a car person myself so I don't know if it is.

Lastly, 'Someday Soon' by Harlem.
A fun song to soundtrack the weekend with!

♥♥Hope you're having a lovely Saturday!♥♥

Weekend in Photos

2010-08-02T21:00:00.000-07:00

Friday lunch at the (500)Days of Summer park...
I'm sure it has a proper name, but really don't know what it is?

Scott (the bunny) matching the sky in his blue shirt & Swedish tie.

First time trying Kogi Beef Tacos, not as good as traditional to me.
But I'm Mexican... biased maybe??

Visit to Bun-Ka-Do, one of my favorite shops in Little Tokyo.

So tempted to buy this mask, but thought maybe I should find
out if it has some sort of special significance first?

I ♥ Kokeshi Dolls!

Gearing up for a late night casino adventure we stopped at a 7/Eleven and found these STOK caffeine shots. Have you seen them before? Despite the scary warnings on the label I had one at 1am... so sleepy and then so awake! Definitely wouldn't drink daily though.

Solidifying my status as a cat lady, this was my favorite penny-slot-machine...
just me or isn't there a slight resemblance to fat George?

Wasn't a BIG win, but we didn't come out in the negative and were having such fun counting I had to photograph it. My brother-in-law wanted to do a throwing in the air shot but we talked him out of it.

Officially...

♥ ¡Wishes for a great new week mis amores! ♥

Etsy Lo♥e's

2010-07-27T21:50:00.000-07:00

Starlette Crown by Giant Dwarf

Green Plaid Shirt from A Touch of Vintage

Ankle Tie Heels from The Allen Company

Health Insurance Valentine by Owly Shadow Puppets

Skeleton Key Ring by Anne Kiel

Lucky Charm Maillot from Dear Golden Vintage

Hand Soap Set by Foliage

Find Bikkjen

2010-07-26T20:15:00.000-07:00

Not sure what they're singing about to be honest?
Somewhere I think I hear the word chocolate. And maybe the name Michelle (that's a good name). But it doesn't matter. I hear dancing and maybe a bit of an unrequited love in Finn Bikkjen by the Casiokids. That's what I'm projecting, but really I think it may just be a song about a guy finding his dog? I'm ok with both...

Shadows of the Week

2010-07-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

Submissions: (1) New bird necklace, I keep wanting to wear it with everything! (2) Baby mockingbird found by a trashcan with no trace of a nest anywhere. Cute and grouchy, had a little birdy scowl on his face and kept jumping around and crying. Only thing that calmed him down was the warmth of our hands which he would snuggle into. Felt so great to hold him. While searching for what to feed him we discovered that it's illegal to keep a wild bird in California and had to find a licensed mockingbird rehabber for him which was a lot easier than it sounds. Thank you to Wild Wings of California, they were amazing about taking him in (3) Figs from the tiny fig tree in our yard, it's no more than a few feet tall but already has about 15 figs growing (4) Baby Chloé at Natasha's BBQ last Sunday. She's adorable, like holding a strawberry shortcake doll come to life (5) Pink or maybe fuchsia roses from the backyard (6 + 7 + 8) Ordered from Diana of our.city.lights etsy shop *HERE* and this is how my goodies arrived. Very much a fan of her work and colors. Beautiful and soft aren't they? I'd love to live in that ethereal world she captures (9) George is a cardboard box feen. Not just to play in but also to sleep in. Lucky for him my online shopping keeps a steady supply.

Thank you again to Tracey of Hey Harriet for her amazing Gallery project. If you're not already a part of it be sure to join today!♥

You adore me, you love me, you cherish me, Jesus Christ you can't live without me...

2010-07-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

(Buffalo '66, 1998)

This is one of my sister's favorite movies. It's the movie she makes a point of asking if you've ever seen and if the answer is 'no' (and you're a friend) she'll bring her dvd for you to borrow. I love it too, though maybe not as vehemently as she does. I love the dysfunction of the two characters and see a shade of myself in Ricci's character and (sadly) a little of a few ex-boyfriends I've had in Gallo's. So have you seen it? 'Cuz if not I'll let you borrow the dvd... ♥

Shadows of the week

2010-07-18T01:00:00.000-07:00

First we eat, then we'll go swimming...

Submissions: (1) From the garden, but again not sure of kind? (2) Pinkberry pomegranate yogurt with mango and cheesecake topping. Cold desserts on a hot day! (3) White raspberries at the City Hall Farmers Market. Favorite place to have lunch on a Thursday (4) One of the reasons are the free fruit samples (5) Almond jelly with fruit cocktail and my friend Scott in the background. Love how he tucks his tie in when he eats (6) Dusky view from the front porch (7+8) Night swimming after a very hot day. Over 100°F/38°C, but I missed summer (9) I-Zone photo circa 1999 of my friend Lisette, BEST friend Natasha and me. We were huge fans of those tiny Polaroids. Yesterday was Natasha's birthday and today there's a small bbq to celebrate. Promise photos of that next Sunday!

Thank you again to the talented Tracey and her wonderful gallery...
and sending ♥YOU♥ wishes for a great new week!

On the subject of friends...

2010-07-15T21:30:00.000-07:00

Ada arrived early this month and stayed with us a little over a week.

In red (my favorite color) and holding her pet rabbit we got busy having fun exploring Los Angeles and Santa Monica together... above, standing by the Los Angeles Civic Center fountain. Do you remember it from the film 500 Days of Summer? How about from *THIS* short short scene in Pretty Woman? It's sadly in the middle of being torn down now to make way for a new shopping and dinning project, but we were happy we got one last snapshot in before they closed it off to the public.

Here she is posing by the Santa Monica Pier entrance.

And below on the pier by the Ferris.

Last looks...

At the top of Elysian Park overlooking some of Dodger Stadium and the Downtown Skyline. Felt bad about the gloom of the marine layer that hung heavy that week, but in retrospect think it was befitting of the mood since I knew she'd be leaving soon.

Thank you again to Ada for her visit and to Adeline of Lady Croissant for letting me be a part of the experiment! Be sure to stop by and say Hi to Ada... *HERE*. There's also more photos from her visit and you can see posts on the other cities she's been to... Italy, France, Singapore, Ireland (it keeps going!). Who knows... she might be on her way to see you soon?

Also, thank you to Scott (the monkey) and his Rebel xt for the Santa Monica and downtown view photos. You're amazing for playing along!

♥ ¡Besos and wishes for a great weekend mis amores! ♥

Martes Trece

2010-07-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

In most Spanish speaking countries, instead of Friday, Tuesday the 13th is considered a bad luck day. Searching for reasons you'll get a little on the Fall of Constantinople and the Tower of Babel (both on a Tuesday?). There's also something about the word Martes (Tuesday in Spanish) originating from Mars the God of the war. Day governed by the red planet. Sort of creepy, but glad to have gotten through the day without any mishaps. So superstitious.

Cléo de 5 à 7 (1962), warned not to wear anything new on a Tuesday...

Sources by order of posting: I see It All by Deth P. Sun, Untitled by Sofia Ajram, The Virgin Suicides from Yoduggy, Untitled by Alison Scarpulla, Mёпот Mолока by Sergeyloie, Untitled by Lully & Rupert and When a tree was green... by Liluna.

Shadows of the Week

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

Submissions: (1)Little figurine found at the Collector's Street Faire I attended a few months ago. Feel like such a cat lady when I buy cat things, but do it anyway! (2) Pink flowers from my garden. Planted them a year ago but they only fully bloomed this season. Don't remember the species? (3) The People of Paper by Salvador Plascencia, the newest pick for the Slow Readers Book Club. Just started, but so far am very much enjoying it. Review post is due by August 15th... (in case you haven't already) you should *JOIN*! (4) Kitty Key Covers from FredFlare. It's like reaching for a toy whenever I open my doors. (5) Fearless pigeon at the downtown library fountain. (6+7) Taken at a recent visit to our local Art-o-Mat at the Geffen Contemporary. $5 token and my friend Scott♥ is now the proud owner of this tiny painting by artist Paula Griffin. (8) Benson's Licorice Allsorts. So good, so bad. (9) Taken at a cellphone selling place. Maybe I don't get out enough, but I swear I thought those clear chairs were awesome... I'm thinking Wonder Woman's invisible plane.

Thank you again to the amazing Tracey♥ and her wonderful gallery...
also wishing ♥YOU♥ a great new week and a ★Happy 4th of July★!

On the Subject of Favorites...

2010-07-01T23:30:00.000-07:00

Office Killer (1997)

I've told you how much I love a good scare haven't I? I do. Can't take true life horror, like war and crime... but wonderfully far-fetched fright films are very much a love of mine. Another love of mine is the work of Cindy Sherman. About 13 years ago I was going through a bad breakup... Lost it all. Faith, dignity... about 15 pounds. It was bad. Then my good friend Gabriel dragged me out to the MOCA for a showing he was dying to see, that turned out to be Cindy Sherman. I remember walking through the exhibit seeing this awe-inspiring woman in these stunning photographs of herself in wigs and costumes. Exciting and empowering. I left feeling strong and optimistic. And I know it probably sounds like much but that exhibit had a huge impact on me. Life changing art I wanna say. Please don't judge me. So, now you know how much I adore Cindy. But despite this big bias, I still very much recommend her one and only full length film. Funny and dark and with each frame a work of art. Watch this short clip for a feel... and then (in case you haven't already) go hunt her down at your local museums!

★ Office Killer'esque ETSY Finds (mostly) ★

Left to Right (From Top): 1950's Wood Grain Glasses by iFoundGallery11, 1982 Macintosh Apple II Plus by iSoldIt.il080, 1970's Classic Beige Trench by LEnfantTerrible, 1940s New York City Souvenir Scarf by DeLaBelle, Brushed Gold Tone Hoop Earrings by NewCreations1, 1950's Fallow Leather Pumps by AllenCompanyInc and 1970's Green Gardens Mini Dress also by AllenCompanyInc.

Portraits by Michel

2010-06-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

Missed this, and I'm sort of bummed about it... apparently two months ago director Michel Gondry put out a new dvd, available *HERE*, with a collection of videos and outtakes. And in an amazing sort of dvd collectors prize he also gave away personally drawn and signed portraits based on photos that you would submit via email. The price was a low $99.95, but is now no longer available. Below are some of the portraits he made before calling it quits... I'm especially fond of the cat and the last couple! Très jaloux.

Portrait photos borrowed from *THIS* very official Flickr account.

Yellow and Red

2010-06-21T22:15:00.000-07:00

Seem to be everywhere... maybe it's the season?

From Top to Bottom: (1) Diana inspired pussy-bow blouse that I honestly can't tie properly. Hoping eventually with practice the bow will fall into place maybe? (2) $3 flower pin found at a recent visit to the Pomona Collector's Street Faire. It was the one thing I'd been hoping to find (3) Strawberry glazed donuts from The Donut Man in Glendora. So good! (4) My friend Scott in one of my favorite t-shirts artfully dodging the camera (5) From Scott's workspace... you can view his newest painting as it develops *HERE*!♥

Anna-Banana

2010-06-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

Wednesday was my sister Anna's birthday...♥ older than me but only by a year and half. Above is a photo of her first birthday (I love the expression on the kids looming over the cake) and below is a bit of all the desserts we ate for this years celebration... food porn!

Wishing you a great weekend!♥

Ten decisions shape your life

2010-06-15T21:00:00.000-07:00

Almost did some kind of an acrobatic feat today with the first glimpse at Sofia Coppola's Somewhere (2010). Partly (and embarrassingly) because I have the hugest girl crush and also because I'd been cyber-stalking this new film of hers (which she wrote and directed) for what now seems like an eternity. Said to have been inspired by two of her husband's songs, which I think makes it all the better... Love Like a Sunset, Pt. I and II (off of the Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix album). The plot is described as a hard living Hollywood actor who's forced to reexamine his life when he gets a visit from his 11 year old daughter. The 'actor' is played by Stephen Dorff and the 'daughter' by Elle Fanning. Be sure to listen for the Strokes demo of 'I'll Try Anything Once'... always has the best soundtracks!

Film set to be released December 22nd. Can't hardly wait...♥

The Various Things I Eat

2010-06-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

When I first saw artist Deth P. Sun's food journal blog post months ago I thought it not only funny and smart but also logical considering my own tendency to photograph what I eat. So as a fan of his new project you can probably imagine the extreme joy I felt the other day when Deth announced a zine he'd created with his food journal drawings (really wanted to see the food sketches up-close). The zine itself is only $5 and can be purchased *HERE*. Also be sure to visit his blog *HERE*, which he shares with artist Marci Washington. Post on it's making is exceedingly fun... gives insight on his spelling or misspelling of food names and to the items which he tired of drawing (like bananas, which I guess he eats almost daily?).

I looked up my Birthday (Nov. 20th) to see what he ate on the date.

Also, was curious as to what was on the menu for Christmas Eve and Day.

Art lovers looking to do some good in the world, be sure to visit TinyShowcase today. They're having a great sale this weekend on prints by artist Jen Corace. $15 from each 'Down, Down, Down' print sold will be donated to the Gulf Restoration Network.

On the subject of favorites...

2010-06-10T16:40:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Scott (the bunny) in his dapper pink shirt and pink tie holding a pink starbucks donut... he was awesome enough to pose for me (I ♥ him so). Second photo is of chive flowers in full bloom. Only recently had a salad with chive flowers in it (though they weren't from my plant)... so good! Very much recommended if you've never tried'em.

Also, there's some great new patterns posted on the Paul & Joe beauté site *HERE*. A fan of their pattern designs and backgrounds for a number of years now and have a few collected *HERE*. Be sure to add me as a contact on Flickr so you can download the full size!

Lastly, have you heard She & Him's live performance on NPR's World Cafe? Great live recordings off of Volume Two available for FREE listening... *HERE*!

(She & Him concert photo courtesy of Robert Loerzel)

One thing leads to another

2010-06-06T21:30:00.000-07:00

The House of the Devil (2009) directed by Ti West and starring Jocelin Donahue is (despite the obviously bad title) one of my most favorite scary films from this last year... nothing I like more than a no nonsense heroine and a good dance scene mid fright!

Inspired Etsy ♥ Finds (mostly)...
craving for high waisted jeans, old-school sneakers, plaid shirts & feathers.

Left to Right (From Top): 70s Plaid Button Up by Zachary's Smile, LA, Vintage 1970s Headphones by Vintage Etc., Braxton High Waist Jeans by Dig Vintage Clothing, Wall Touch Tone Telephone by 12 Karri, Navy and White Nike Sneakers by Aquarian Vintage, Western Plaid Shirt by Lolly Crisp Vintage, Boar Bristles Round Hair Brush by Olivia Garden, Faux Staghorn Knife Set by Luncheonette Vintage.

♥ ¡Wishing you a great new week! ♥

I can grow without a weapon or a dream

2010-06-03T21:30:00.000-07:00

It's possible I fall in love too easily when it comes to music, but I swear I can't get enough of I Was Playing Drums by the band Efterklang (means 'reverberation' and also has the double meaning of 'remembrance' in Danish). This video, directed by Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard, was recorded in Copenhagen for 4AD Sessions and is one of the singles off of their newest album Magic Chairs. And while I know I say this a lot... I really can't stop playing it.

For more 4AD Sessions be sure to visit *HERE*
and for an interview with the band be sure to visit Spinner.com *HERE*

A days worth of shadows

2010-05-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Scott♥, who took the majority of what's up on this post with his his Rebel xt and Canon 50mm lens... (both which I deeply covet!)

Our Submissions: (1) Scott's chili plant. (2) Mr. Cecil's California Ribs. Fries fried twice!! (3) Hands on the steering wheel during a 30 minute drive that should've taken about 9. (4) Portrait of Barbara Kressin from an unknown Netherlandish artist, ca.1544. I love her red hair. (5) Tiny cupid also from the Getty Museum. (6) A bit of Foundry to Finish. Dutch artist, Adriaen De Vries, demonstrates how to in the making of a bronze sculpture. (7+8+9) All taken in the famous Getty Gardens. We snacked on Sour Skittles as we explored.

And thank you again to the talented Tracey and her lovely gallery!
Hope you have a great new week!♥

You and me, against the pricks

2010-05-29T14:30:00.000-07:00

(Dogfight, 1991)

One of the best and most awkward kissing scenes ever... but try to avoid the last 16 seconds of the video if you can! Not so much a spoiler, but more of a mood breaker.

Inspired EtsyFinds♥

Left to Right (From Top): 1940's Style Full Slip by Adelaide Homesewn, 1950s Orangette Full Skirt by The Church of Vintage, Blue jean Headband by South for the Summer, Beaded Sapphire Cardigan Sweater by Lola Vintage, McGregor 1950's WindBreaker by The 5th House, Around the World in 80 Days Music Box by Tuned Teeth.

The best part of the day...

2010-05-25T23:00:00.000-07:00

Was spent celebrating my
dear friend's Birthday♥

(Aren't these Harajuku perfumes adorable?)

And a bit of the rest was filled with this...

¡Wishes for a great Wednesday!♥

It's a terrible love...

2010-05-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

It takes an ocean not to break... completely enamored with the new single off of The National's newest (just released today) album, High Violet, and with Pitchfork.tv's live presentation at an abandoned castle on the Hudson River. The same building previously featured in Gus Van Sant's film Last Days. Video is directed by RJ Bentler, mixing and engineering is by David Tolomei and cinematography by Ray Concepcion.

Liking the video but want to hear more?
Be sure to visit NPR's First listen to hear the entire new album for free!

Gloom and mis'ry everywhere...

2010-05-10T19:15:00.001-07:00

'Lena Horne, singer and actor best known for her rendition of Stormy Weather and as Hollywood's first black sex symbol, has died. She was 92. In a 60-year career, Horne broke down numerous racial barriers. In the 1940s, she was one of the first black singers with a major white band, the first to perform at the famous Copacabana nightclub, and the first to sign a long-term Hollywood contract. She later became an active campaigner for civil rights and was a powerful voice of the movement. In 1943, she played the role of Selina Rogers in the all-black movie musical Stormy Weather. Her version of the title song became a major hit and her signature piece...'

For more on the Guardian UK article quoted above be sure to visit *HERE*.
Photo of Lena courtesy of Music2MyEars.

Shadowshot Overload

2010-05-09T20:36:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry! It's been building...

My Submissions: (1) Print of Dollface from my sister's vanity room, by the amazing Sam of Matou en Peluche. Very appropriate here since I think my sister and her sort of resemble each other in the dollface thing. (2+3) Her party tray turned jewelry display from the 99¢ Only Store and the broach I plan on stealing. (4) Me hiding behind the camera. (5) Chris Clean helped me practice saving lives last week. (6) I ♥ Chicken Satay and I don't care who knows it. (7+8+9) From the George Barris Culver City Car Show, though truly not a car person I love the shiny chrome, colors and devotion.

Thank you once more to the fantastic Tracey and her amazing gallery!
Wishes for a wonderful new week!♥

I can't stop watching it...

2010-05-01T23:00:00.000-07:00

Cold Cave's most recent video for the single 'Life Magazine' off of the album Love Comes Close. Directed by Focus Creeps and starring actress Marti Domination. I adore how happy it is and it completely fits the current mission my sister has me on of putting together a playlist for a party she's having in June. I need a little help though, do you have any favorite party songs to share?♥

A weeks worth of shadows...

2010-04-17T23:30:00.000-07:00

My Submissions: (1) An itty-bitty piece of pretty wagashi from Fugetsu-do, a favorite confectionery shop located in the Little Tokyo area of Los Angeles. (2) My new pink Nissie flats, comfy and swear I feel just like Molly Ringwald when I wear them. (3+4) Flowers from the garden. (5) McCormick's inspired creations, pre-measured spices and recipe cards for people who need a little extra help in the kitchen. Isn't it genius? (6+7) Fat George high on cat nip... loves it so.

Thank you to the wonderful Tracey and her amazing gallery!
And wishing everyone a wonderful new week♥

First rule of slow readers book club...

2010-03-21T08:12:00.000-07:00

Is to read slowly and relish every letter of it, but well, I'm sort of slow by nature so not only did I manage to string out my book for the months it was supposed to take, but also pulled the hat-trick of posting my review late. Did you read it? Did you like it? I enjoyed it, but honestly, not as much as I sort of thought I would. A huge fan of Jeannette Walls' first novel, the Glass Castle, and I think because of that my expectations were a bit high going into Half Broke Horses. While I found Walls' characters strong and often inspiring, I also thought her Grandmother to be a little too perfect. Can't say I hated it, was interesting, but knowing it was part fiction gave me permission to throw conjecture at the parts I thought she was exaggerating to put her grandma on a pedestal. That sounds terrible and believe me, if I was writing about my Grandmother I'd probably do very much the same but I'm glad it gave the disclosure about it being a NOVEL & not a biography.

But despite this rather dismal review, I have to share how much I loved the book club aspect in the read. As many of you already know, the book club idea that started early January snowballed into 500+ members and Diana of our.city.lights had the very clever idea of starting a forum, which can be found *HERE* to house all the ideas and discussions related to the club. Be sure to join today if you haven't already! The next book has already been chosen by member votes... Alice I Have Been by Melanie Benjamin:

The heartbreaking story of Alice Liddell from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Born into a Victorian family of privilege, free-spirited Alice catches the attention of family friend Charles Dodgson (aka Lewis Carroll) and serves as the muse for both his photography and writing. Their bond, however, is misunderstood by Alice's family, and though she is forced to sever their friendship, she is forever haunted by their connection as her life becomes something of a chain of heartbreaks. As an adult, Alice tries to escape her past, but it is only when she finally embraces it that she truly finds the happiness that eluded her. Focusing on three eras in Alice's life, Benjamin offers a finely wrought portrait of Alice that seamlessly blends fact with fiction.

Appealing don't you think? Still not sure what the deadline of the read is, but I'm guessing it'll probably be 2 months again? Also, on the non-est of non-sequitur's, I recently broke down and opened a facebook account. Do you have one? Care to be friends? Say yes... this is a link to my page. Hope you're having a very LOVELY Sunday!♥

Hard to be ignored

2010-03-13T22:06:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the video to the newest single yet? (Forever a fan of Zooey & M.Ward's collaborative project♥) Directed by Peyton Reed and choreographed by Sophie Olson... I'm such a sucker for a good dance scene. Volume Two is set to be released on the 23rd of this month, you can visit the myspace page *HERE* to preview Thieves also off the new album.

♥Wishes for a wonderful new week!

Not whining, but it's been a crazy month

2010-02-27T20:30:00.000-08:00

Mostly because of work and my allergies taking on the new symptom of migraines (that made it sort of impossible to read, much less write). But despite the obvious bad I've had a nice month and even managed to photograph some of it...

Above is my pink polka-dot hypoestes, a $3 steal from one of my favorite Little Tokyo shops, Kahlen Flowers.

Photograph I found on a recent trip to the Pomona Collector's Street Fare, a small event they have once every two months (next one is on March 27th). It's slightly damaged and there's no markings or date on the photo, but am enamored with how very expressive and happy they are. Wonder if they were newlyweds?

'Roses are red, violets are blue, Marmite you're brown... & I love you.'
New to me and introduced by my brother's girlfriend, thank you Amy!

I can't cook, my sister Anna cooks, but I make a mean soft scrambled egg. Above are my world famous soft scrambled eggs with feta cheese, chives and mushrooms on sourdough toast. I swear, it's the only thing I make that gets any love around here.

Lastly, this little guy joined us at lunch the other day. I've never seen a bolder little bird... he kept looking back and forth between my lunch partner and I as if he were part of the conversation and was even kind enough to let me photograph him.
♥♥♥♥
Thank you to everyone who emailed and left sweet supportive comments while I was away. They really did make a difference! Lots of kisses and wishes for a great new month.

LEARN TO SKIP

2010-01-17T15:15:00.000-08:00

At the risk of sounding like a very shallow person, I need to share with you the extreme joy I get out of discovering something small and seemingly unimportant that I really like or enjoy... like this short little video by uk based director and photographer Pavla Kopecna. The film title is 'Learn to Skip' and it features the also uk based SkipTheatre performers. The largest part of the soundtrack is 'Rip it up' by the late 70's early 80's Scottish post-punk band Orange Juice. Such happiness to be had in a 5 minute video I tell you, click play and start skipping in 10 easy steps... ♥

Grand Winner

2010-01-16T23:46:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Anna (#11)...♥

The grand winner of the Kokeshi Doll giveaway!

Thank you to everyone who entered and commented, there'll be another giveaway very soon! Also, hope your weeks gone well... it's been a busy one for me, trying to get work caught up after my two weeks of being on Holiday. But I'm so happy it's a long weekend and look forward to catching up on my reading tomorrow! Wishes for a lovely Sunday.♥

(Photo of Bird Lover courtesy of Swapatorium)

Book Club Invite!

2010-01-04T22:00:00.000-08:00

You are cordially invited to join
and become a part of the Slow Readers Book Club!

As you might've guessed (if only by the name and by yesterday's promise of a big announcement) it's not your run-of-the-mill book club. It's instead a wonderfully inspired idea by the Slow Movement effort... a goal to rebel against the rush of a world that wills us to be quicker-faster with a very conscious attempt to really slow down and appreciate and connect with what's around us... Isn't that a sort of delicious goal, especially when mixed with reading?

The first book for the club will be Half Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls. A magnificent, true-life novel based on her no-nonsense, resourceful, hard working, and spectacularly compelling grandmother. We hope to read, discuss as a group (via email) and ultimately write about the book on Thursday, March 4th (two months from now).

So, are you in?!♥

Hoping you'll say yes... and if so, please be sure to visit and register at the OFFICIAL club website *HERE*! You definitely don't need a blog to join, but if you do have a blog, and would like a button, help yourself to one *HERE*.

Looking forward to sharing on the read with you!

♥♥♥

A weeks worth of Shadows...

2010-01-03T15:50:00.000-08:00

My Submissions: (1) Necklace by designer Lisa Leonard that I had the great luck of winning through our.city.lights in early November. One of my favorite accessories. Not sure if you can see it in the photo, but it's a heart with a smaller heart inside and inscribed with 'I hold your heart in mine'. Isn't that a lovely sentiment? (2) Taken beneath a small tree in my yard that was packed with birds seconds before I tried to sneak a photo. They all flew away before I could snap it... never make it as a paparazzi, but was still happy with the view. (3) A mixed media piece by Adeline of Lady Croissant. Part of an amazing little package that she sent me as a prize in mid-November. A mix of photographs, music and licorice (from Oslo... delicious!!). Might be thinking that's a lot of prizes? But I swear, I think it had to do with the month. It's my birthday month and the nicest things seem to happen to me in November. (4) Paper flowers, taken yesterday at La Placita Olvera. One of my most loved places in Los Angeles. If you've never been and are anywhere near you should stop by if only to try the food. Best Mexican food and an abundance of restaurants with various price ranges.

Thank you so much again to Diana and Adeline for the treasures! And to Tracey for her inspiring Shadow Gallery! Wishes for a great new week everyone♥. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for a big announcement... big!

Do you ever feel like an extra in your own life?

2010-01-01T21:30:00.000-08:00

You've probably seen this already,
but in case you haven't, here's another reason to
love Miranda courtesy of Vice Magazine:

Created by Miranda July and photographer Roe Ethridge.
Published in Vice Magazine, Sept. 2009.

Doll-Giveaway

2010-01-01T15:50:00.000-08:00

Are you enjoying your new year? I love the feeling of newness to it all. All psychological, I know, but I went to sleep last night after eating a lot of pozolé and drinking way too much champagne (room was slightly spinning) thinking of new starts and very much liking the prospect... ♥ But ok, enough about the new year, I'm actually writing about a giveaway! This is a giveaway of my last Kokeshi doll. I'd made three (inspired and created after seeing an exhibit of Kokeshi dolls at the JANM) and the one featured on this giveaway is the last one left from the batch. To Enter all you have to do is leave me a comment here.... open to anyone! Winner will be chosen through random.org on Saturday, January the 16th. If you're a follower please leave two comments to double your chances!

Visit my shop *HERE* to see more photos of her.
Hope you'll enter! ♥

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T09:50:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to send you a quick note of thank you for your friendship, some near and some far, and for the sweet and honest support that you give. I'm not going to bother listing my resolutions, since I'm probably going to end up breaking them. But I do want to tell you what I hope the New Year'll hold for us... lots of love (of course) and Blessings and definitely more of all that was good in 2009 and the years that led up to it. How did you celebrate? I'm celebrating with family, nothing very exciting but I like being around my loved ones (to hug and kiss) right at the start of the New Year... Also, there's a series of midnight rituals involved that I need to get ready for, one involves red underwear (must be wearing red undies at midnight for luck) that I still have to buy! New Years Eve is a lot of work for the slightly irrational and highly superstitious... *bises*

On the Subject of Music

2009-12-30T18:50:00.000-08:00

Excited to write again on a favorite band of mine, Enjambre, and the recently released video for their single, Impacto. As you might remember, three of the band members (including the lead singer) are my cousins... which makes me a little biased, but still, hoping you'll click play! Song features the lovely and talented Lo Blondo (shown above) of the band Hello Seahorse.♥

A happy one...

2009-12-25T23:30:00.000-08:00

(I ♥ miniatures)

Hope you've had a beautiful holiday and sending wishes for a wonderful last week of the year!

(Also a few favorites from home... ♥)

(Birds in tree)

From my dear and talented friend Diana♥ of our.city.lights. I adore the Day of the Dead theme and her gorgeous use of color:

Thank you so much again Diana♥! George loved his toys... he tired himself out after the extreme cardio of chasing them around the house.

♥♡♥♡♥♡♥

Holiday Favorites, Apologies and Blizzards

2009-12-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

Often, when I act badly my general tactic is to act like nothing's happened. It's so bad isn't it? Not to offend any of the guys out there, but that's sort of a guy thing isn't it? It sometimes works, but not always. If the degree of my badness is big enough for me to not be able to hide from it I'm forced (out of shame) to apologize. Which is what I'm doing here today. I'm sorry. I've been a HUGE flake. And though I can offer an array of excuses the truth boils down to me being bad at managing my time and unable to properly think when under stress. Stress isn't my friend. But things have gotten considerably better this week. I'm officially on vacation for the next two weeks and almost done with my Christmas shopping... just three things left on the list, very last minute but sadly this is good for me. Does anyone know of a patron saint for flakes? ♥

Also, this last week I had the extreme honor of guest posting for my dear friend Diana♥ of our.city.lights. The topic was one of my favorite films for the Holiday's... visit today!

Source of these Flickr favorites by order of appearance:
Baby It's Cold Outside by Boopsie Daisey, Pages ready for Christmas by Our.City.Lights, The Christmas Tree Book: Wrapping Presents by Wardomatic and Miniature Gingerbread House by Shay Aaron.

Hope you're having a lovely week!
Happy that Christmas is a coming...♥

With a Love so rare and True

2009-12-12T23:35:00.000-08:00

'...there's this window into my heart
and you can open and crawl in whenever you want.'

Peggy Sue Got Married (1986)

Directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Starring Kathleen Turner (the title role) and Nicholas Cage. The premise is a little out there, involving time travel and a cast of adults we're supposed to believe are still in high school. But despite the far fetched'ness of it all, it never fails to completely suck me in with the fantasy of what would happen if Peggy didn't get married. Also, the soundtrack is wonderful, lots of Buddy Holly as you might've guessed.

(The role of the little sister is played by Sofia)

Inspired Etsy♥ Finds (mostly)...
Remember dying for a heart locket
as a little girl because of this movie!

Left to Right (From Top): Marching Band Uniform by FlutterAndEcho, Heart and Flower Locket Necklace by JuneShin, Poodle Skirt Jumper Pattern by Pretty Pattern Shop, Eyelet Trim Lace Sock by Jefferies Socks, Brown Leather Penny Loafers by DoresVintage, Cashmere Lace and Pearls Sweater by StoryBoutique, 1950's Party Prom Dress by VintageFrocksOfFancy, 1950's Party Prom Dress Pattern by PatternPeddler and 1950 Full Circle Sundress by StoryBoutique.
♥♥♥
Sources: Film frames provided by MariVaudage.
The film can be viewed in it's entirety *HERE*.

Not so much cheap...

2009-12-07T20:17:00.000-08:00

But very much a lover of free music and enthusiastic over the free mix of songs being offered by Nylon Magazine *HERE*. Only real requirement is iTunes. Mix consists of 27 tracks off of their favorite albums of the year and the download ends February 28th.

This song by Cass McCombs was my favorite never-heard-it-before song from the mix. Sweetly romantic and has a bit of doo wop going on...

♥
(Sending wishes for a great week!)

The Young Victoria

2009-12-05T20:21:00.000-08:00

A Young Queen Victoria at Osborne House
by Franz Xaver Winterhalter (1842)

A little in love with the prospect of the newest film on the life of Queen Victoria, partly because of Emily Blunt (who I think amazing) but also because I just don't tire when it comes to the story of the Queen and her Prince Albert...

Aren't the costumes gorgeous?

The trailer ♥

Queen Victoria sits on Saint Edward's Chair
by Sir George Hayter (1838)

Queen Victoria with her beloved Prince Albert
Painted by Sir Edwin Landseer (1840-43)

'He possesses every quality that
could be desired to render me perfectly happy.'
(Written by the Queen after meeting the Prince for the first time)

Sources: All paintings courtesy of iMonarchy.
♥
(The film is set to be released on the 18th of this month)

Grand Winner...

2009-12-01T16:49:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Hanako (#14)... ♥

The grand winner of the vintage fan pendant giveaway! Thank you so much to everyone who entered and commented, another small vintage giveaway is coming soon.

Also, hope the week is going well...
mine's been really busy at work!

♥ ♥ ♥

Sources: Vintage Gibson illustration by Finsbry.

Sunday shadows, cakes by friends, flowers on the windowsill and a song...♥

2009-11-29T09:30:00.000-08:00

This weeks submissions to the Shadow Gallery, a brilliant project run by the lovely and talented Tracy♥ of Hey Harriet, is a slice of red velvet. It was the prettiest thing I ate for my birthday.

Also, below is a little violet plant bought at the 99cent store a few months ago. Isn't she beautiful? Sort of shocked that she not only managed to survive but also found a way to bloom in November.

Lastly, have you heard the new Beck and
Charlotte Gainsbourg song? I'm so addicted...

Thank you so much Tracy♥...
and best wishes for a wonderful new week!
♥

Madame Yevonde

2009-11-27T17:22:00.000-08:00

(Above) Lady Bridgett Poulett as Arethusa

The pioneering photographer first set up her studio in 1914 London. She became famous by using vivid more contemporary approaches to studio portraiture. One of her best known projects was the Goddess Series (ca.1935) in which she photographed London elite as Greek and Roman goddesses...

(Below) Lady Diana Mosely, as Venus

Nadine Muriel, Countess of
Shrewsbury as Ariadne

Lady Anne Rhys
Photographed as Flora

Miss Susan Bligh as Calypso

Isn't her work gorgeous?
♥
I love that through her genius these women were able to indulge their fantasies of being goddesses. Also very much love these etsy finds that I think would help me do the same...

Left to Right (From Top): Golden Lightning Headband by Quirky Beauty, 1940's Navy and Saffron Embroidered Dress by Margaret Pearl, Hydrangea Blossom and Diamond Stacking Ring by Patrick Irla Jewelry, 1960's Vintage Ribbon Belt Embroidered Linen Dress by My Favorite Vintage, Juliet Print by Matou en Peluche, Four Leaves Gold Headpiece and Beaded Silver Phoenix Headpiece both by Quirky Beauty, Budding Twig Cuff Bracelets by Kristin Coffin and Baby Blue Greek Goddess 70's Dress by See Vintage Jane.

♥♥♥

On the subject of favorites

2009-11-23T22:30:00.000-08:00

Shops located near the
Downtown area of Los Angeles...♥

(Gorgeous Elizabeth)

(Cute, but already sold)

(Pulp Novels)

(Still wish I could play)

(Vintage Postcards)

Lastly, a giveaway of my weekend find. A small fan charm on chain. The charm has two different designs etched on it. One side is a Phoenix and the other a scene with cranes. It also closes. To Enter: Please leave a comment on this post, open to everyone. A blog is not required, just make sure you leave an email address as part of your comment. Giveaway closes Tuesday, December 1st.

Thank you to everyone who left the wonderful birthday wishes...
Not a fan of birthday's but ♥ getting happy wishes.
Hope you're having a great new week!♥

Crisantemos

2009-11-22T08:03:00.000-08:00

My submission to the Shadow Gallery, a great project run by the talented Tracy♥ of Hey Harriet. Open to anyone who'd like to participate, the simple requisites can be read *HERE*.

Sources: Chrysanthemums from my backyard, they just started growing out of nowhere in a small empty flower bed we had. I'm guessing the people who lived there before us had removed them for some reason but they managed to survive. Chrysanthemums were my Grandmother's favorite flower.

Thank you so much Tracy♥ always such fun!

Also, I'm sorry for being gone these last couple of days but I have a very valid excuse... it was my Birthday weekend (35!... *gasp*) and though generally don't enjoy them I had a pretty good and busy one. Think I was partially inspired by my fellow bloggers who shared the week with me, D♥ of Dream Sequins who threw an amazing Tea Party and the always lovely Hanako♥ of Through the Looking Glass who escaped to Palm Springs! Hope you girls had a gorgeous one also... will be catching up on all my reading soon and will return on Monday with a vintage giveaway!! *Besos*