12 linden

skate regeneration

2010-11-18T11:11:00.003-05:00

Many times I have difficulty walking without tripping over my own feet,

but I've always secretly wanted to skateboard like this.

Kilian martin via BOOOOOM!

ginger what?

2010-11-16T22:44:00.003-05:00

I've never known why redheads get such a bad rap.

Is it their pale skin? freckles? or is it just because there aren't many of them?

Over the years, my ever changing hair color has landed me in this so called "ginger" category once or twice.

Just look at the list above...

Chuck Norris - kicks ass. (literally)

Molly Ringwold - the Brat Pack epitomizes cool

and seriously, who doesn't love a chimp?

found via the jailbreak

marcel the shell

2010-11-01T10:28:00.002-04:00

MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON from Dean Fleischer-Camp on Vimeo.

"Guess what I do for adventure?" what? "I hang glide on a dorito."

oh andrea

2010-10-26T21:47:00.002-04:00

1. I'm secretly wishing my name was ANDREA right now.

2. I just spent about 20 minutes trying to figure out if my own name

would work as a bike frame.

3. I just had a chuckle because I just thought of that annoying girl on 90210. Ahhhhndrea Zuckerman. The show really could have done without her.

I'm just saying.

found via swissmiss

tune of the week

2010-10-25T17:54:00.003-04:00

Last week I went to see School of Sevens Bells,

and since then I can't get this song out of my head.

enjoy.

build anything

2010-10-24T22:24:00.001-04:00

Build Anything from Studiocanoe on Vimeo

I seriously considered buying some Legos after watching this.

merci beau coup

2010-10-24T22:01:00.006-04:00

There is NO doubt that I would look like a complete clown in these outfits; but I'm really digging the styling. Their patterns and silhouettes are playfully whimsical.

Japanese street style at its best...

Mercibeaucoup

Colorado 2010- round 2

2010-10-04T19:39:00.007-04:00

Why is it that the work week drags on to eternity,

however vacation time flashes past in a blur???

Just a week ago, I made my second trip out to Colorado this year to visit my sis. Now that I'm back at work it seems like vacation has been over for months. :(

I'm wondering if someone would just pay me full time to travel?

Any takers?

Despite the seemingly quick trip, it was quite relaxing.

Sadly both my sister's and my cameras had broken, so we only managed a few phone pics.

We enjoyed a weekend full of farmer's markets, art shows, coffee shops, and mountain tops.

Pretty much all you need in life.

Amanda Wachob

2010-06-21T17:29:00.005-04:00

If I had any guts at all...

I would want a full sleeve tattoo by Amanda Wachob.

Tattooing since 1998, Amanda is currently working out of Dare Devil Studios in NYC.

I'm drawn to many tattoo styles, but Amanda is producing some things I've never seen before. Taking fine art to another level and combining it with body art. The abstract watercolor strokes are beautifully GENIUS.

3-day weekend

2010-06-14T15:33:00.008-04:00

A 3-day weekend has been MUCH needed, so I took off Saturday and headed up the coast to New Jersey. My bro is home for the summer, so I also took advantage of a rare brother/sister weekend. Besides visiting our grandparents lake, we decided to take a day a hit up our old stomping grounds in Avalon, NJ.

Growing up, we had the pleasure of both of our parents being teachers. That meant lots of vacation time in the summer. Every year Avalon, New Jersey was where it was at. The pleasures of the beach, but not nearly as crowded as some of the more touristy towns.

I decided that maybe next year I could find a house to rent so I could spend some quality time with the sand like the old days. I took a few pictures of houses that held up to our standards. What do you think? Not to shabby?

Oh, a girl can dream.

This bottom house was RIDICULOUS. We stopped across the street to take a picture and it looked like these bikers had the same ideas we had. HOLY COW!!! It was like an entire town. I figure if I could get maybe 50 of my friends together, we may be able to afford one night there.

dance. dance. dance.

2010-06-05T21:25:00.001-04:00

In another lifetime, I want to be like Lykke Li.

How rad is she???

dream bike

2010-06-02T14:04:00.005-04:00

Genius! Urban Outfitters has teamed up with Republic Bikes to offer completely custom bikes. There are two styles of bike frames and everything else you can make personal. Frame color, seat color, handle color, tire color. For some reason I tend to get suckered into every customizable product on the market. But, this bike may top the charts.

The two below are a couple color combos that I love. Just looking at them makes me want to be at the beach, cruising down the boardwalk.

Kidney Foundation Walk - 2010

2010-05-24T17:17:00.009-04:00

In a few weeks we will reach the one year mark since I was able to donate a kidney to my bro. Yay!!! It was fitting that this weekend we both participated in the National Kidney Foundation walk in Baltimore. After the awful journey Z has been through, I was beyond happy to support and raise money for the foundation. (Z was able to raise slightly over his goal of $1000.)

The turn out was pretty good, despite the overcast, slightly rainy day. But, the best part was the fact that the walk took place at the Maryland Zoo. Woo Hoo!!! I can't even tell you the last time I went to the zoo. Take my word, it's a damn good time.

Z shelled out a few bucks and was able to feed the giraffe.

This pic is one of my favorite.

I can't even decide which was the highlight for me. The polar bears were adorable. I know you shouldn't, but I just wanted to hug one. The rhinos were pretty kick-ass. (or better yet, they looked as though they could kick some major ass.)

The leopards were terrifying and had teeth that could pretty easily rip my arm off.

However, I was surprised how calm the cheetahs were. Their "meow" sounds just as high pitched as a house cat. Weird huh???

Oh HOLD UP! The best part... Z entered in a contest at the bear den.

Some silly quiz about bears, but he WON!

Bet you can't guess what the prize is???

We get to go back and spend a day "behind the scenes" with the polar bears.

I'm SO very excited. Maybe I will get my hug after all.

Anyway, I was happy to participate

and I wish many years of continued health to my brother.

xoxo.

today's quote

2010-05-12T17:37:00.002-04:00

You will recognize your own path

when you come upon it,

because you will suddenly have all the energy and imagination you will ever need.
-Jerry Gillies

summer lovin'

2010-05-12T17:12:00.002-04:00

It is currently raining here in good old Baltimore

and I am anxiously awaiting summer.

I'm totally needing some warm sunshine in my life.

I love this vintage photo from the 1950s.

When has sunbathing ever been this glamourous?

Oh, and I am pretty sure the little halter number

on the right wants to be mine.

found via rockstar diaries

birthday quote.

2010-04-26T23:28:00.002-04:00

A fitting quote my good friend Annie sent me a few days ago on my birthday...

The main event has never been the manifestation; the main event has always been the way you feel moment by moment, because that's what life is.

--- Abraham

29 and feeling fine.

2010-04-26T23:10:00.004-04:00

I know the title is pretty lame.

But, here it is folks.

This is what twenty-nine looks like.

(at least for me.)

Do you have those people who ask you every darn year...

"So, do you feel any older?"

Well, this is the first year I can honestly say YES!

But YES in a good way.

I feel that all of my 20s have been spent trying to figure out life,

who I am, and what I am here for.

Well this year has been a HUGE growing year for me

and for the first time I'm okay with myself, my life,

and not really knowing what I'm destined to accomplish.

(although I'm really looking forward to some new adventures soon.)

I accept the uncertainty and I'm open for the journey.

Cheers to another year of health and happiness!

30, I'm ready for you next year!

happy day, earth lovers!

2010-04-22T09:44:00.006-04:00

Yay!!! It's Earth Day.

I've always believed that I was meant to be born on Earth Day.

But, as my usual self, I procrastinated and ended up

coming into this world slightly after midnight.

Now my birthday lies on the 23rd, but I'm still a child of nature.

Cheers to the soil, the trees, and the air which give me so much peace.

(images via Flickr)

east coast lovin'

2010-04-18T21:33:00.012-04:00

My favorite part about living on the East Coast

is that Baltimore is right in the middle of all the major cities.

Philadelphia, Washington DC, and New York are all a hop, skip and a jump away;

which makes it perfect for some fabulous day trips.

This weekend, I chose to visit some of my favorite neighborhoods in DC.

Georgetown and Adams Morgan.

Sunday was a perfect day. (Sunny and 60 degrees)

I got in some much needed walking, a little bit of shopping, and tons of fresh air.

Besides perusing the shops, I also spent time wandering aimlessly through the nearby neighborhoods.

Dreaming of which million dollar house could be mine one day.

(the two above are for sale, do you think they would take a down payment of roughly $52.76?)

I continued on a little stroll near the water. Lots and lots of were boats out.

I love this picture of the canoe in front of the city scape.

I finally headed over to my favorite coffeehouse in Adams Morgan.

The atmosphere is SO chill here.

Mixed matched furniture, local art, great salads/sandwiches,

and really good looking waiters. :)

I may have ended my day with a few treats.

I tried REALLY hard to resist the sweets.

But, #1- my birthday is in less than a week, why not start the celebration now?

and #2, vegan bakeries are hard to come by.

I'm just doing my part to keep them in business.

Don't judge.

I had to take this photo in the car,

because one of these bad boys was devoured before I even got home.

quote of the week.

2010-04-16T20:13:00.004-04:00

The world is your playground. Why aren't you playing?

-Ellie Katz

*by the way, don't I look pretty kick-butt sitting on top this rock?*

an education

2010-04-15T20:46:00.005-04:00

I'm not sure I'm the best person to be giving movie advice.

Mainly because I don't watch many and I guess I don't have much to compare them too.

But, "an Education" was a fabulous movie.

Carey Mulligan is stunning, the costumes are mouth watering,

and the music is 1960 at it's best.

I highly recommend it, (although, I truly rate movies on their soundtracks)

the story line is equally as dreamy.

mixtape spring 2010

2010-04-15T20:37:00.001-04:00

Can't stop listening to this playlist.

It has been in heavy rotation lately.

enjoy.

Easter

2010-04-05T18:55:00.010-04:00

Isn't it funny how holidays change when you're not a kid anymore?

The anticipation and hurry are sort of lost along the way.

I kind of enjoy how it now just becomes a relaxing day with family and food.

After the horrendous winter we had this year,

I couldn't have planned a more perfect Easter Sunday.

Mid 70s, sun, blue sky, and a cool breeze.

Before dinner, I did a little nature exploring in my grandparents backyard.

And, found this old abandoned office building nearby.

I love the look of buildings after many years of vacancy.

Before they completely break down, it looks as though the earth just starts consuming it.

My Pop-Pop informed me that this building used to be the office for the man who invented the first metal press.

Before the hydraulic press, they used it to stamp out metal in assembly lines to create the first mass produced cars by Henry Ford. Cool huh?

I have to admit, I spent about an hour watching these silly little turtles.

They spend the entire day sunbathing on this branch. Tough life.

I also tried to become friends with this cow,

but as soon as I got too close he scampered away. :(

Nothing this weekend beats some quality time in my favorite reading chair.

I like to think that my grandparents reserve this for me whenever I come to visit.

After I say my hellos and catch up with everyone, I tend to wander off, grab my book,

and head out to read while listening to the sounds of the lake.

I hope everyone had a relaxing weekend like I did.

It's a little painful to think that the work week starts in about 14 hours.

two rad chicks

2010-03-28T20:16:00.004-04:00

Zooey Deschannel and Scarlett Johansson are not only two amazing young actresses,

they are both pretty rad singers

(and not to mention their unbelievable fashion senses).

I was completely stoked when the new She & Him album was released last week. Zooey's collaboration with M. Ward is quite cheery and refreshing.

I also have not been able to put down Scarlett Johansson's album

where she teams up with the most adorable Pete Yorn.

I have been HUGE P.Yorn fans for years

and was so excited when Scarlett lended her vocals for the album.

Cheers to the multi-talented songstresses.

hey Bonnie!

2010-03-28T09:33:00.004-04:00

Hmm...

For the past month, this new guy at work has been calling me Bonnie.

Well, I thought at first maybe he just doesn't know my real name.

So I decided to ask him,

"you DO know my name is Eliza NOT Bonnie, right???"

His response, "of course, but you remind me of Bonnie in Bonnie & Clyde."

He went on to explain that he thought my personality and style were pretty old school and swears I should have been born a few decades earlier.

(I think it may be my love for turtlenecks and scarves, who knows?)

I kind of laughed it off but was embarrassed to tell him

that I had NO idea who Bonnie and Clyde were.

I know, don't judge.

Thanks goodness for Google because I found out that Bonnie looks like a pretty kick ass chick. So I'll take the comparison any day. Hopefully Blockbuster carries the movie so I can check it out this weekend.

I want to take over the world...

2010-03-25T13:13:00.004-04:00

I want to take over the world, and make it cute!

My thoughts exactly.

Maybe a little bit of glitter would help.

This print made me chuckle.

It reminds me of something I would have drawn on my notebook in middle school.

(apparently making the world cute involves cupcakes, dinosaurs, rainbows and underwear.)

print by Elise Flannigan

Baby.

2010-03-24T23:20:00.000-04:00

This video makes me happy.

that's it.

devendra banhart - "baby"

love it.

Colorado 2010 (part 2)

2010-03-22T09:27:00.013-04:00

Ahh... I have been dreaming of going to Red Rocks Amphitheatre for years.

As a HUGE music lover, I have watched video after video of live shows from there.

The acoustics and scenery can't be beat.

Well, it is March, and shows don't start until the end of spring. Boo!

But I was totally stoked to just go walk around.

I could not leave without running down and standing on the stage. The same spot as legends such as the Beatles, the Grateful Dead, Phish, Bjork, Incubus, Allman Brothers, Ben Harper, etc...

Can I also mention... people in Denver know how to make some damn good veggie food. I may have stopped at this place once (or twice).

Mmmm... BBQ tempeh burgers and vegan treat heaven. I could have seriously eaten here every day.

Thanks to my sister who was kind enough to sneak into the bathroom to take a picture of this grafitti. Even the grafitti is vegetarian. :)

Colorado 2010 (part 1)

2010-03-18T20:28:00.006-04:00

Well, vacation started out slightly less than ideal.

Delayed flights, cancellations, extra money, and a few minor panic attacks.

But once I finally made it to Colorado, I was completely relaxed and ready for some good mountain time.

My sister lives in downtown Denver in this cute apartment complex.

If I lived there, I would definitely spend some quality book reading time in this courtyard.

Ahh... the rocks, the mountains, the blue sky.

We spent the first day exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, and Boulder.

Denver is pretty chill, but I fell in LOVE with Boulder.

Thanks to my sis who acted as chauffer all weekend. I constantly shouted at her to STOP so I could get out for some good photo- op time.

(me and mom) and (me and sis)

Spring, are you here yet?

2010-03-09T20:26:00.003-05:00

My favorite thing about Springtime (besides lack of snow)

is the opportunity to go shopping for a new season.

Out with the cold, in with the SUN.

These are just a few items from my Spring wish list.

Time for COLOR.

teal dress from Anthropologie, eyelet booties from Free People,

crystal ring by Sarah Lewis,

paint swatch dress from Forever 21, American Heritage sandals from Nine West,

papier mache bracelet from National Geographic catalog

whew...

2010-03-08T17:17:00.002-05:00

For the first time EVER,

I actually sat through an entire awards show last night

(and enjoyed myself).

I'm pretty sure my friends are laughing right now,

because I don't even watch movies.

It's true, I haven't seen any of the movies that won awards last night.

But, we all know the only reason to watch the Oscars is for the fashion.

I happened to stumble upon a picture of my two favorite dresses.
(Carey Mulligan and Maggie Gyllenhal)

Maggie's dress won hands down in my book.

quiz time

2010-03-07T10:20:00.010-05:00

Who knows what all these celebs have in common???

give up?

they are all VEGAN.

who knew? (well, I knew a few.)

I was doing a little research today

when I came across a long list of celebrity vegetarian/vegans.

Sometimes I feel like I'm part of a minority group,

but it's nice to see all the other tofu lovers of the world.

rockstar weddings

2010-02-25T09:44:00.005-05:00

Ok, so I have a total obsession with wedding blogs. Mainly, I think, because they combine all of my favorite things: fashion, flowers, decorations, and loads of pretty things.

I love that people are starting to branch off from the traditional matchy-matchy looks. Do the bridesmaids dresses really have to match the mens bow ties, that also happen to match the tablecloths? I think not. (and I really hope not.)

How awesome is this bridesmaids' lineup? To my girls out there... if I EVER get married, you all better glam it up and stand by my side.

*I would LOVE to have outfit #2 and #8 in my closet right now!*

Seriously, where can I find that black lace dress?

found via- green wedding shoes

color block

2010-02-24T23:01:00.003-05:00

I can't stop staring at these pillows.

I've already decided how I could work each one into a different room of the house.

Plus, wouldn't these make totally rad tee shirt designs???

I may have to take a look at my fabric scraps to see what I can up with.

Ceoca Kenzo Pillows

found via- design milk

2010-02-20T08:42:00.002-05:00

There's a great entry over at Make Under my Life today. If your a crafter/artist, she's got some wonderful encouragement. Take a peek at it...

I want to run my own business, I want to inspire people, I want to be creative, I want to promote living creatively and authentically, I want freedom from “the man”….I could go on forever. And it is fine for me to sit and want all of those things until my little heart is content but if I don’t take any action I will never get anywhere close to living my dream life. Living creatively means having to say that I am responsible for everything in my life. It means that I am the only one who can create my success and make my dreams happen. It means that I need to start NOW.

gardens in pavement.

2010-02-18T17:57:00.005-05:00

Imagine what a beautiful garden that Baltimore City could be.

Pete Dungey plants mini gardens in potholes across Britain.

"If we planted one of those in every hole, it would be like a forest in the road."

found via- a cup of jo

LOVE of my life

2010-02-15T19:41:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite blogs...

and of of the best valentine's gifts I've ever seen.

Love of my life from Jen Lula on Vimeo.

found- jenloveskev

if only I had a treehouse...

2010-02-02T22:44:00.007-05:00

If I had a treehouse,

I'd store my books on this,

and I'd put my flowers in these.

*tree bookshelf by Shawn Soh*

*branch vases via Moco Loco*

Cheers to 2010!

2010-01-01T16:44:00.006-05:00

2009 was a pretty self-reflecting year for me.

I learned much about myself, some strengths I never knew I had, and some weakness I hope to improve on.

The year in review... I started a new healthier lifestyle by running and becoming vegan, I gave up a kidney, went on an emotional rollercoaster, stepped in the Pacific Ocean for the first time, reunited with many friends from the past, and built stronger relationships with current friends.

2010 I have high hopes for.

Here's what I'd like to focus on this year (in no particular order)...

1. Travel (on my list for this year are LA, Denver, Boston, Chicago, and San Francisco; along with my usual weekend trips to Philly & NYC)

2. Continuation of vegan eating while supporting organic/local farmers.

3. Start practicing Yoga on a regular basis

4. Amp up my running and push my body to be as strong as possible.

5. Put 110% into my jewelry design. I've taken a break for a while, but I feel lost when I'm not creating something. As silly as it sounds, I feel at home at my workbench.

6. Be in the moment and not over-think EVERYTHING.

7. Find the positive in things and be grateful for what I have.

8. RELAX

Cheers and Lots of Love in 2010!!!

what a difference a day makes...

2009-12-29T02:14:00.009-05:00

Did anyone else happen to experience the magic act that occurred

on the East Coast this past weekend???

The first 2 pictures were taken on Christmas Day...

and the last 2 photos were taken the day after Christmas.

Snow today, gone tomorrow.

A half day of rain completely melted away the two feet of snow

that we accumulated the week prior.

Was I the only one amazed by this???

*to be completely honest, I was pretty excited.

I like the snow A LOT,

but after awhile it just turns into a dirty muddy mess.*

SNOW DAY!!!

2009-12-19T13:48:00.008-05:00

It's official, our little snow storm in Baltimore has now turned into a full fledged blizzard.

I can't remember the last time I've seen this much snow.

Last time I measured the snow was roughly 11 or 12 inches deep and it is predicted that we may see an additional 8-10 by tomorrow morning.

Work was canceled today and I know my boss is at home shaking in his boots.

Having to close the Saturday before Christmas is a huge deal in the jewelry world.

(or in any retail business I would suppose.)

But, there really is NO competing with Mother Nature; I'm pretty sure she will always win.

These are the days I wish my studio was in my home.

I could be getting SO much done today.

Oh well, I guess it is nice to sip some tea and relax with some old movies.

(right now I'm watching The Holiday, you can't beat snow + Jude Law).

my heart melts...

2009-12-18T13:43:00.003-05:00

Can you think of anything more adorable?

I'm starting to think that I may need one of these little rascals.

found here (one of my favorite blogs)

pure sweetness

2009-12-14T20:33:00.005-05:00

-found here-

Coulson Macleod

everyone deserves music

2009-11-28T15:56:00.002-05:00

I've been thinking back on this year and I realized that it was a pretty great year for music. I made a short playlist of some of my favorites. A few are old songs, but they still remain in constant rotation. Enjoy!

much thanks!

2009-11-25T23:16:00.007-05:00

I am thankful for my wonderful family (despite all of their quirks)!

I am thankful that I was able to help my brother get his life back on track (and fingers crossed he remains healthy for a LONG time to come).

I am thankful for my extremely talented and amazingly supportive friends, who are just down right RAD. (1,2,3...)

I am thankful for music.

I am thankful for the little moments in life when everything seems just right.

I am thankful for my mocassins. (I'm cold)

I am thankful for the 17 year old shirtless werewolves in the New Moon movie. (just kidding... sort of)

I am thankful for my life.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

XOXO

one step forward or two steps back?

2009-10-27T19:51:00.008-04:00

As a kid people always ask you, "what do you want to be when you grow up?" Some kids know the answer at an early age; "I want to be a doctor or a fireman."

Well, for me it's been a little different. I've wanted to be a lab scientist, an optometrist, a pharmacist, a sign language interpreter, a painter, a jeweler, a vegan baker, a traveler of the world... etc. The problem (or maybe not) is that I have so many interests/loves that are completely different from each other.

Is there a perfect job for me? Who knows? In most instances I can't imagine doing the same thing for my entire life. However I still get anxious that I'm 28 and still can't answer the question, "What do you want to do with your life".

I've been told over and over, "life is a journey not a destination". It has taken me a while to understand the truth in this statement. Every step I take helps me realize what I want to include in my life and what is really not that important to me.

Well, I've been feeling like things in my life have been a little stale lately. So, I'm starting to make some changes. The first change seems like I'm taking 2 steps back, however I choose to look at it as 1 step forward.

Change #1... I've moved back to my hometown to save some money for a few months. Although it's only about 40 minutes from the city, I'm a little sad I can no longer walk down the street to visit my friends. :( But, I'm hoping the money I am saving in rent will help me move on to Life Change #2. :)

(image from Keri Smith)

can't get it out of my head

2009-10-07T20:30:00.002-04:00

Negative Nancy

2009-10-03T09:22:00.002-04:00

As my friends can attest, lately I have been somewhat of a Negative Nancy or Debbie Downer. I'm kind of at a cross roads where I'm trying to figure out what the hell to do with my life. (which, to say the least can be a little exhausting.) Anyway, I'm trying to stay postive and now I've found a new motto to live by. "Don't think about the negative things anymore than necessary to help you move away from them."

*found on one of my favorite food blogs- Carrot's N Cake*

Reactive vs. Creative

2009-10-02T20:32:00.005-04:00

"Reactive vs. Creative.

When you see things differently, you become creative rather than reactive."

I've been a HUGE fan of graffiti for years, but it is wall murals like this one that get me completely giddy. I apologize that I forgot to write down the artists name, but I found this gem on a side street in Venice Beach a couple of weeks ago.

Not only are the characters wonderfully animated, but the artist has also sporadically stenciled on these beautiful little messages.

"Send love in response to hate" and "you can't until you say you can".

what's cooking?

2009-10-02T20:24:00.004-04:00

Just a little sample of what's been cooking in the studio. Bridesmaid's gifts for a friend of mine who is getting married this month.

5 necklaces coming right up!

sweet LA

2009-09-27T19:18:00.008-04:00

I took a quick trip out to Cali last weekend to visit my bro (and my kidney). My sister flew in from Denver and we had a little family time in sweet LA.

We couldn't have asked for better weather. I'm not sure why everyone in the world does not live in LA, because I don't remember seeing a cloud in the sky the entire time we were there.

Mmm... Sprinkles cupcakes were DELICIOUS. I may or may not have splurged and eaten one, even though they are far from vegan. :)

Also, the first time my feet touched the Pacific Ocean. I know. What can I say, I'm an East Coast gal. I LOVED Venice Beach.

I'm not going to lie. I'm a little disappointed to be back in the humid haze of Baltimore. But I'm already planning my next trip to the west coast.

sensory overload

2009-09-06T23:13:00.009-04:00

Better late than Never.

Well, I am 28 and I've lived in the charming state of Maryland my entire life. But for some reason, this weekend was the very first time that I visited the state fair.

Here's my problem with the fair: how can you trust a ride that was assembled one weekend and then disassembled the next weekend? Come on people... it doesn't seem like the safest bet. It's kind of like assembling your own furniture. There always seem to be a few screws left over.

Not to mention there weren't many food options for a vegan: fried dough (which apparently is different from funnel cake), fried oreos, fried twinkies, french fries, hotdogs, pizza, turkey legs, and BBQ. Umm, no thanks.

I'm not sure I will ever take part in the fair festivities again, but I did actually have a nice evening. Gavin Degraw put on a free concert so, we just took a blanket and relaxed a bit.

I see a billboard in the works...

2009-09-06T20:22:00.003-04:00

I've been thinking...

since a big chunk of my paycheck goes to buying coffee/tea

and I am constantly walking around with a little green/white cup,

maybe I should be getting a little compensation for my constant promotion.

What do you think Howard Schultz??? Maybe I could be the official Starbucks spokesperson???

It's just a thought.

(I did put in a solid 4 years as a master barista)

*side note... it's officially Fall- pumpkin spice lattes are back :)*

whew... what a summer!

2009-08-31T20:51:00.010-04:00

I've taken a little time of from the jewelry bench and the blog this summer... but I have a good reason. My summer started off with a family surgery of sorts. Here's a pic of my bro Zachariah and me. He's the proud new owner of my left kidney. Probably goes without saying, but most of my summer has been spent recuperating. For about a month, the biggest decision I had to make was whether I was going to lay on the couch, or stay in bed all day.

Anyway, it's been a few months now and I'm almost all healed. Now it's time to get back to business. I've got many new jewelry designs cooking in my head and hopefully will have some finished pieces to show soon.

Although my summer was pretty low key, I did get a chance to go see some great music. One of the highlights was the Incubus concert I went to a few weeks ago.

I don't think I have to mention again how I think they are one of the most talented group of guys, but they out did themselves this time. I was blown away by the last song they performed. Incubus has recorded a rad version of Prince's "Let's go Crazy". To say I loved it would be a complete understatement. I've been listening to it on repeat and dancing my booty off. Enjoy!

operation beautiful

2009-06-25T09:56:00.005-04:00

A couple of months ago I was strolling through Barnes and Noble (after a lousy day of work) when a lady came over to me and said,

"I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I watched you walk in and we were just discussing how nice you looked. I just thought you would want to know, women don't compliment each other enough."

I was a little stunned by her comment, by it completely changed my attitude that day.

I love the idea of this website "operation beautiful" where women write little inspirational notes and leave them in public places such as the gym or work. Just like the bookstore compliment, I'm sure finding one of these little positive messages would totally make my day.

pretty words

2009-06-23T21:37:00.004-04:00

via mixed plate.

by kate miss

infectious dance

2009-06-09T07:27:00.002-04:00

who knew that the slightly spastic dancer on the hill would inspire such a beautiful scene? proof that living in the moment can create the most memorable experiences.

let the music move you!

fear no more

2009-06-08T23:24:00.002-04:00

for a lot of my life, I have let fear control many of my decisions. Recently, I've been trying to play it a little less safe. I love the message of this photo.

image found via flickr

double shout out!!!

2009-05-10T08:11:00.005-04:00

A BIG happy 30th birthday wish to my sister, Erin Quinn!

(this was us just a few years ago)

XOXO

And also a very Happy Mother's Day to my beautiful Momma.

Love you lots. :)

Onwards

2009-04-29T20:12:00.001-04:00

I just got back from a run, and this made me smile. Oh, how I love animation!

Onwards from AKQA on Vimeo.

oh Tord! you've done it again.

2009-04-27T18:28:00.004-04:00

First, Tord Boontje had me enamored with his delicately intricate paper installations. Then he made his art accessible to everyone through his paper lanterns. Next came his greeting cards... and NOW, he has a wearables collection. Oh Tord, how I love thee. These beauties should be on sale next month at Artecnica.

this is what art school should have been like...

2009-04-27T18:14:00.005-04:00

I was recently introduced to the celebration of Holi, also known as the festival of color. Hindus all over the world celebrate on March 11th, the triumph of good over evil, by splashing around in a sea of paint. I can't get over the vibrance of color. Check out other photos here, they are just as beautiful.

happy earth day!

2009-04-22T09:27:00.001-04:00

happy earth day!

get out and enjoy the air today!

image via flickr- izzydempsey

boom! boom!

2009-04-19T20:26:00.001-04:00

I heard this song on the radio on the way to the gym today and I can't get it out of my head. It may be my new favorite song. (until tomorrow at least) :)

mmmm... new recipe!

2009-04-13T17:14:00.007-04:00

Let's begin with the fact that I LOVE bars. Larabars in particular. But, the price adds up when I eat them everyday. So, I was intrigued when I found a recipe for homemade energy bars in my Women's Health magazine.

The recipe is quite simple:

1cup honey (my one non-vegan allowance)

1cup peanut butter (or any other nut butter)

1 cup carob powder

1cup sesame seeds

1cup sunflower seeds

and any other fruit/nut/or seed that sounds good

All you have to do is heat up the honey, slowly stir in peanut butter (to make a sticky base) and then just throw all the rest of the ingredients in. Smooth into a 8x8" pan and chill for an hour in the refrigerator. Cuts into squares or bars and you're done.

I've made them twice now (the second batch turned out much better after I made some adjustments) I prefer less carob powder; I also added oats, cranberries, almonds and walnut chunks.
Take my word... they are AMAZING!!!

it's a beautiful day in the neighborhood

2009-04-05T21:43:00.003-04:00

Saying that today was perfect weather, would be a HUGE understatement. As soon as I woke up, I knew I had to get outside and take advantage of the blue skies. I started with a quick 3 mile run and then showered up to take a trip to my 2 favorites places.

I hopped in the car (windows down and music blaring) and took a drive to meet a friend at Great Sage for lunch. Mmmmm... AMAZING vegetarian/vegan cafe.

After lunch I stocked up on produce at the Roots Market, which was a nice change from my normal Sunday trip to Whole Foods. Although, I have a feeling the employees at Roots thought I must be crazy because I was in there for almost 2 hours. There's something about health stores that suck me in. I could look at vitamins and tea for hours. It's really a sickness.

Fingers crossed for some more beautiful weather this week.

flinging metal

2009-04-02T20:41:00.002-04:00

This goes out to my metal girls...

In Nuanquan, China these men celebrate the Lantern Festival by throwing molten iron onto a large wall creating a light show. It is said this tradition began years ago when blacksmiths could not afford fireworks.

Anyone want to give it a go???

Video via neatorama

oh so sweet!

2009-03-31T21:27:00.002-04:00

European sugar packets

(just another reason that europeans are so much more hip than us)

via- okay great

a thursday evening chuckle

2009-03-26T18:39:00.002-04:00

tee shirt design by Mikko Walamies

happy birthday to liz!

2009-03-19T23:56:00.004-04:00

a BIG "happy birthday" shout-out to my good friend Liz today.

is it the weekend yet???

2009-03-19T22:54:00.001-04:00

photo found via Flickr- Meri?

one day, I will wear a red beret

2009-03-11T21:34:00.002-04:00

I've tried for 27 years to pull off wearing a hat. And, for 27 years I've failed. One day (I'm not sure when or where) but one day I WILL wear a red beret.

Photo from N.E.E.T. magazine

thank goodness for indie bands

2009-03-10T06:29:00.002-04:00

Friendly Fires 'Skeleton Boy' by Clemens Habicht from Nexus Productions on Vimeo.

It's been a really long time since I've watched MTV, but it is refreshing to find bands that come up with creative videos to their songs (rather than some lame story line, or half-dressed booty shaking).

I'm loving the black/white contrast in this Friendly Fires video with a combination of snow and stick people.

happy women's day!!!

2009-03-08T18:15:00.003-04:00

March 8th marks the celebration of International Women's Day.

Happy day to my female friends, family and fellow goddesses.

I need help...

2009-03-03T20:28:00.002-05:00

Sorry, this is completely random.

I have recently started running on a regular basis and I'm in need of some good tunes to amp up my workouts. If you have some favorites songs that help break a sweat, will you please share them with me? Thanks, in advance. :)

Matty Franklin image

100 days! 100 songs! 100 dances!

2009-03-01T19:25:00.002-05:00

I leave you with a present this Sunday night.

100 days, 100 songs, 100 dances!

I promise it is worth it... it put a smile on my face.

(my favs are 13, 21, 56, 71, 87)

BOOMBOX from Ely Kim on Vimeo.

I'm saving my pennies for one of these...

2009-03-01T12:39:00.005-05:00

Yves Saint Laurent, Arty Flower rings.

whole foods is a perfect place to meet a guy.

2009-02-26T22:09:00.002-05:00

I was just telling Laurel how I need to get a job at the local Whole Foods because the fellas were so VERY good looking. Then I found this doodle on the Free People blog from illustrator Kris Chau. I guess I'm not the only one with a thing for scruffy Whole Foods workers. Check out some of her other drawings here.

American Craft Council

2009-02-23T18:23:00.006-05:00

I'm so very excited to go to the ACC show next weekend. It comes to Baltimore every February, but it always happens to be the same week as our annual sale at work. So, for the past few years I have missed out on the show. Not this year, YEAH!!!

I decided to check up on a couple of my favorite jewelry artists to get a preview of what I may see next week.

Eric Silva

and

Karen Gilbert

***If you are planning on going as well... stop by the alt-craft section and say "hi" to Annie. Here's a preview of her new stuff that I LOVE.

you can find me here...

2009-02-23T18:02:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure if you've heard or not... but, the economy seems to be in some sort of "recession" right now. So, I have thought long and hard about my business steps for 2009. My conclusion is to focus less on retail shows (for now) and more on promotion and wholesale accounts.

Step #1- you can now find 12 linden on facebook.

i will never love you more than peanut butter.

2009-02-22T22:06:00.002-05:00

I'm enjoying a relaxing Sunday evening with my good friend PANDORA, and I've discovered this wonderful singer Soko...

She makes me happy. :)

i'm broke

2009-02-22T09:32:00.002-05:00

Recently, I've been bumming about my lack of funds... until I found this sign. If "poor is the new black", then I am SO in style right now.

Image by Mike Monteiro

don't cha

2009-02-20T22:39:00.005-05:00

I'm not going to lie. There are times that I dance around my house to the Pussycat Dolls. But, this graffiti artist (BRONCE) still made me chuckle.

Here's another one of my favorites from him...

ninja turtles are cool!

2009-02-20T21:12:00.004-05:00

I love this photo for many reasons, but mostly because it brings back memories of summer time.

I grew up on a little dead-end street where all the kids were allowed to roam around free range. A few evenings a week the snowball truck would come down our street and kids would scatter running back to their own houses to collect change for such treat. Our particular truck had Mario Bros. faced pops on a stick, but this Ninja Turtle is just as awesome.

Photo by Jackie Young

much love

2009-02-14T05:01:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day

images via flickr

1. hearts and gum 2. hearts for rent 3. to flickr with love 4. the environmental issue

underwear love

2009-02-09T19:30:00.002-05:00

Underwear Love wall decals- found here

moss mat

2009-02-05T18:04:00.002-05:00

Designer, Nguyen La Chanh, from Switzerland has come up with this moss bath mat. As you drip dry, you feed the plant. I bet it feels AMAZING on your feet too!

February goal

2009-02-04T20:20:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago, I mentioned that I was going to give myself a new "mini goal" each month. January was VEGAN month. It has been going so well, that I have decided to continue it. Yeah!!!

For February, I have decided to read one book a week. I know this doesn't sound very difficult, but normally I can't even find time to finish a book a month. So here we go, I'm going to be a reading monster.

Book#1: The Glass Castle (recommended by Annie) *or at least I think this is the book you mentioned

Let me know if you have any suggestions for next week.

football, what???

2009-02-01T19:59:00.005-05:00

Don't get me wrong, I actually DO enjoy sports. But, I'm pretty indifferent to the outcome of the superbowl this year. Sorry!

While the rest of the country is tuned into the tv, I decided to put in some hours at the studio. I still owe my sister a Christmas present, so I worked on a carnelion and amber cluster ring for her. (Almost done EQ, just need to polish)

random...

2009-01-31T20:05:00.002-05:00

Just a random question... Do people still play croquet???

I think I'm going to bring it back this summer.

jewelry meets fashion

2009-01-28T10:00:00.011-05:00

Sarina Suriano blends the lines of jewelry and fashion. Absolutely stunning.

pillow talk

2009-01-27T20:11:00.002-05:00

This could possibly be the most GENIUS video that I've ever seen.

Oren Lavie via free people

sneak peek

2009-01-26T15:22:00.001-05:00

It's a new year, which means there's new jewelry on the way. Here's a small sneak peek. Be prepared for lots of ribbons and ruffles to come.

why are europeans so much cooler than us?

2009-01-25T11:05:00.004-05:00

I've always been pretty indifferent when it comes to men's clothing, but I was completely blown away when I saw this picture of an Italian man on the Satorialist. Have you ever seen a man MORE put together than this??? I haven't. Perfect mix of color, pattern and detail. (I mean just look at the gloves in the pocket... come on!) and did you notice that his shirt matches his eyes exactly?

Who wants to book a trip to Italy with me????

if I had a motorcycle...

2009-01-24T12:23:00.002-05:00

If I had a motorcycle... I would buy this helmet so I could look like the LEGO MAN.

found via refinery 29

fork goes on the left

2009-01-22T19:30:00.003-05:00

genius table that I LOVE

found here.

(check out their wedding pics, they're just as creative)

inner tube

2009-01-22T10:33:00.004-05:00

found object necklaces:

soccer ball, inner tube, potatoes

Noemie Doge

origami hat

2009-01-22T10:06:00.010-05:00

Beautiful. Denise Grunstein.

I pledge

2009-01-19T19:36:00.005-05:00

The celebrities are at it again. I know some people have issues with celebrities voicing their political views, but I have to say that I LOVE the message they are promoting in this commercial.

I'm proud, that on this historical day when Obama is being sworn into presidency, America is pledging to join together to make a change. "Vote for CHANGE" began with Obama's campaign, but it can be continued by EVERYONE everyday.

I pledge to live a more "green" lifestyle with less waste. What do you pledge?

one question

2009-01-19T18:25:00.003-05:00

Fifty People, One Question: Brooklyn from Crush + Lovely on Vimeo.

I often think whether I'm in the right place, the right job, the right city, etc...

I always wonder if there's something better ("the grass is greener" type of thought).

This video made me think. I was surprised by how many people answered "home".

Where would you like to wake up tomorrow???