Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Merry Christmas!
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Cutest Home Invador. Ever.
On Dec. 11, 2011, in Bay of Plenty, New Zealand, Annette Swoffer walked in to her kitchen and quickly met Lucky, the seal pup.
"I was in my office and I heard an awful racket down below... I thought the cats have brought a rabbit or something in so I went down and had a look - and there's a seal in my kitchen," said Swoffer. "I thought 'I'm hallucinating, this is just wrong.'"
Lucky, named for his knack for crossing busy streets without a scratch, wound up asleep on Swoffer's couch after apparently entering her home through a cat door, according to The New Zealand Herald.
Swoffer called the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals who contacted the Department of Conservation, which was already looking for the pup.
"I was in my office and I heard an awful racket down below... I thought the cats have brought a rabbit or something in so I went down and had a look - and there's a seal in my kitchen," said Swoffer. "I thought 'I'm hallucinating, this is just wrong.'"
Lucky, named for his knack for crossing busy streets without a scratch, wound up asleep on Swoffer's couch after apparently entering her home through a cat door, according to The New Zealand Herald.
Swoffer called the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals who contacted the Department of Conservation, which was already looking for the pup.
Apparently, this isn't the first time the department's rangers have received calls about Lucky. They reportedly have dropped the seal back into the sea twice before and they can't say for certain that they won't be at it again in the future.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Wild Wednesday: Green Your Grocery Trip
The eco-impact of trips to the grocery store can really add up. The Sierra Club offers tips on how to look at ways to go easy on the planet when it's time to stock the fridge and pantry.
Tip #1: Walk or bike.
It may not be realistic for those living in rural areas, but for urbanites and suburbanites, walking, biking, or taking public transit to the market can be a good option. You'll be reducing both traffic congestion and its emissions. Make sure can bring your groceries home, though, whether by carrying them or bundling them on your bike. In other words, don’t buy too much stuff.
Tip #2: Avoid packaged foods.
Most markets are filled with processed and packaged foods. Think of the freezer section or the aisles lined with chips and crackers and cookies: It’s one packaged item after another. Of course, it’s unreasonable to expect people to cut out packaged foods altogether, but you'd be wise to spend more time in the produce section. Why? Well, everyone knows about recycling. But if you take it a step further and think about precycling, you'll think through your purchase so that it generates as little waste as possible — and you'll avoid the need to recycle in the first place.
Tip #3: Buy local, seasonal food.
During fall and winter, ask yourself whether you really need those strawberries that were flown all the way in from South America. A great way to reduce your carbon footprint is to think seasonally, by finding out what foods are being grown where you live. One option for finding fresh, local produce is to frequent your nearest farmers' market.
Tip #4: Bring a reusable bag.
When it’s time to check out, a reusable shopping bag is an easy way to cut back on all that paper and plastic. You can choose bags made from canvas, polyester, hemp, or organic cotton. If you’ve typically got a heavy load to cart, invest in a folding wheeled cart for an easier trip home.
Tip #1: Walk or bike.
It may not be realistic for those living in rural areas, but for urbanites and suburbanites, walking, biking, or taking public transit to the market can be a good option. You'll be reducing both traffic congestion and its emissions. Make sure can bring your groceries home, though, whether by carrying them or bundling them on your bike. In other words, don’t buy too much stuff.
Tip #2: Avoid packaged foods.
Most markets are filled with processed and packaged foods. Think of the freezer section or the aisles lined with chips and crackers and cookies: It’s one packaged item after another. Of course, it’s unreasonable to expect people to cut out packaged foods altogether, but you'd be wise to spend more time in the produce section. Why? Well, everyone knows about recycling. But if you take it a step further and think about precycling, you'll think through your purchase so that it generates as little waste as possible — and you'll avoid the need to recycle in the first place.
Tip #3: Buy local, seasonal food.
During fall and winter, ask yourself whether you really need those strawberries that were flown all the way in from South America. A great way to reduce your carbon footprint is to think seasonally, by finding out what foods are being grown where you live. One option for finding fresh, local produce is to frequent your nearest farmers' market.
Tip #4: Bring a reusable bag.
When it’s time to check out, a reusable shopping bag is an easy way to cut back on all that paper and plastic. You can choose bags made from canvas, polyester, hemp, or organic cotton. If you’ve typically got a heavy load to cart, invest in a folding wheeled cart for an easier trip home.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
Can't Brighten Up
Burned-out holiday lights are a bummer, but you can turn a negative into a positive by recycling them into festive jewelry for your friends and family! Just follow Tiffany Threadgould’s easy instructions to see how you can upcycle your defunct bulbs into charming earrings and necklaces.
The perfect size for hanging from your ears or neck, these tiny lights can still shine with the addition of jewelry findings and some creative flair. Not only are you reusing broken lights, you also are creating your own holiday-themed accessories—for next to nothing.
MATERIALS:
Old Christmas lights
Pliers
French hooks
Necklace chain
Jump rings
Thumbtack
Wire and beads (optional)
Check out the easy three-step process to making the earrings and necklace.
The perfect size for hanging from your ears or neck, these tiny lights can still shine with the addition of jewelry findings and some creative flair. Not only are you reusing broken lights, you also are creating your own holiday-themed accessories—for next to nothing.
MATERIALS:
Old Christmas lights
Pliers
French hooks
Necklace chain
Jump rings
Thumbtack
Wire and beads (optional)
Check out the easy three-step process to making the earrings and necklace.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Foto Friday: Weathervane and Vines
I took these photos November 3 nearby my dentist's office. I was so surprised to find this old barn and fence in the city of Erie. I just happened to have my office's new camera (Canon EOS REBEL T3) with me, so I snapped a few pictures before my teeth cleaning.
My new goals: Find beauty every day. Take time to enjoy it.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Bring 'Em Home!
Today U.S. officials formally shut down the war in Iraq.
After nearly nine years of the United States occupation in Iraq:
100,000 Iraqis lives were lost
4,500 American were killed
32,000 Americans were wounded
$800+ billion was spent by the U.S.
Hopefully our country's efforts have not been in vain. U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said the conflict was worth the price in blood and money, as it set Iraq on a path to democracy. At today's ceremony, Panetta told the troops, "You will leave with great pride — lasting pride. Secure in knowing that your sacrifice has helped the Iraqi people to begin a new chapter in history."
According to ABC news, Iraqi citizens offered a more pessimistic assessment. "The Americans are leaving behind them a destroyed country," said Mariam Khazim of Sadr City. "The Americans did not leave modern schools or big factories behind them. Instead, they left thousands of widows and orphans."
The United States has not left entirely. There are still government officials and civilians who will stay. And at least 4,000 forces will remain in Kuwait for some months to help finalize the move out of Iraq.
Panetta acknowledged the difficulties for Iraq in the coming years, as the country tries to find its footing. "They're going face challenges in the future. They'll face challenges from terrorism, they'll face challenges from those that would want to divide their country. They'll face challenges from just the test of democracy, a new democracy and trying to make it work. But the fact is, we have given them the opportunity to be able to succeed."
I rejoice we are able to end this war.
I am thrilled our service men and women are able to come home.
I am disappointed we began his conflict with faulty intelligence.
I have hope the Iraqi citizens will persevere.
I am saddened the U.S. couldn't accomplish all the goals.
I weep for the lives lost.
After nearly nine years of the United States occupation in Iraq:
100,000 Iraqis lives were lost
4,500 American were killed
32,000 Americans were wounded
$800+ billion was spent by the U.S.
Hopefully our country's efforts have not been in vain. U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said the conflict was worth the price in blood and money, as it set Iraq on a path to democracy. At today's ceremony, Panetta told the troops, "You will leave with great pride — lasting pride. Secure in knowing that your sacrifice has helped the Iraqi people to begin a new chapter in history."
According to ABC news, Iraqi citizens offered a more pessimistic assessment. "The Americans are leaving behind them a destroyed country," said Mariam Khazim of Sadr City. "The Americans did not leave modern schools or big factories behind them. Instead, they left thousands of widows and orphans."
The United States has not left entirely. There are still government officials and civilians who will stay. And at least 4,000 forces will remain in Kuwait for some months to help finalize the move out of Iraq.
Panetta acknowledged the difficulties for Iraq in the coming years, as the country tries to find its footing. "They're going face challenges in the future. They'll face challenges from terrorism, they'll face challenges from those that would want to divide their country. They'll face challenges from just the test of democracy, a new democracy and trying to make it work. But the fact is, we have given them the opportunity to be able to succeed."
I rejoice we are able to end this war.
I am thrilled our service men and women are able to come home.
I am disappointed we began his conflict with faulty intelligence.
I have hope the Iraqi citizens will persevere.
I am saddened the U.S. couldn't accomplish all the goals.
I weep for the lives lost.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Necessary and Unnecessary Accessories
Yesterday I took the day off from work. My mom and I spent the day shopping, lunching, and movie going. I experienced what it feels like to be a lady of leisure. It was lovely.
But to the point, I did a little Christmas shopping, but as it always turns out, I did more shopping for myself. Oops.
I did, however, get gifts for my aunt, uncle, and sister. So I think I am done. I would like to get one more gift for both my mom and dad, but we will see. There's not much time left.
Anyway, back to me.
Yesterday, I purchased one necessary accessory and two not-so-necessary accessories.
I have been searching and searching for grey booties. I finally found some. I don't LOVE them, but they were affordable and comfortable.
I like the grey (synthetic - no animals were harmed in the creation of this boot) leather. I like the slouch. I like the buckle detail. I'm not crazy about the brown, stacked wedge. But I will get over it, the most comfy shoes I own are wedges. They really are nice. And I know I will wear them all the time. In fact, I think I should buy some leather protector or some sealant to keep these booties dry.
Now, on to the unnecessary. So unnecessary I might have to return...
The other thing I picked up that, again, I have no NEED for (but do we ever buy accessories for need?) is this headpiece. In the old days, these used to be called fasinators. I suppose they still are called that - but it's not common in our venacular. It has a polka dot, birdcage veil and a green feather detail. This, too, could be a fun New Year's Eve accessory, a good Kentucy Derby hat, or an appropriate English wedding hat.
Sigh...
Your turn. Talk me in or out of these two accessories. But remember, my two unnecessary accessories cost about $20 combined after sales and coupons!
But to the point, I did a little Christmas shopping, but as it always turns out, I did more shopping for myself. Oops.
I did, however, get gifts for my aunt, uncle, and sister. So I think I am done. I would like to get one more gift for both my mom and dad, but we will see. There's not much time left.
Anyway, back to me.
Yesterday, I purchased one necessary accessory and two not-so-necessary accessories.
I have been searching and searching for grey booties. I finally found some. I don't LOVE them, but they were affordable and comfortable.
Now, on to the unnecessary. So unnecessary I might have to return...
I picked up these ridiculous, sparkle slingbacks on clearance. I'm a sucker for a shoe that is listed for $15! Come on! I spent more on lunch yesterday than I did on these shoes. But I know these are completely impractical. For one, the heel is 4.5 inches. Sure there is a half-inch platform, but the heel still is 4 inches and I can't walk in that. But on the flipside. These would be perfect New Year's Eve shoes... even though I have no plans to ring in 2012.
The other thing I picked up that, again, I have no NEED for (but do we ever buy accessories for need?) is this headpiece. In the old days, these used to be called fasinators. I suppose they still are called that - but it's not common in our venacular. It has a polka dot, birdcage veil and a green feather detail. This, too, could be a fun New Year's Eve accessory, a good Kentucy Derby hat, or an appropriate English wedding hat.
Sigh...
Your turn. Talk me in or out of these two accessories. But remember, my two unnecessary accessories cost about $20 combined after sales and coupons!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Monday, December 12, 2011
Be Still My (Tween) Heart
I found myself wondering, "whatever happened to him?" the other day.
(And P.S. remember when such questions couldn't be answered at the click of a mouse? You know, BI - before internet. Or maybe BG -before google. Either way, back in the day, when you had a random question, there was no way of answering it. You might ask the closest person to you, they would furrow their brow and shrug. And that would be that. No answer. Curiousity killed the cat back then, now the cat just looks it up on Wikipedia. But also, back then, fame was fleeting.) It's flashback time.
I had some serious crushes on many 90s teen heartthrobs (don't judge, but I'm pretty sure I had a collection of (playing) cards with boys faces on them). So now it's time to not only reveal my love interests, but also find out what happened to each of them.
Well - not so much find out what their doing, but rather, see what they look like now.
Jonathon Taylor Thomas. Home Improvement (and voice of Simba in The Lion King)
Rider Strong. Boy Meets World
Devon Sawa. Casper and Now and Then
Jonathan Brandis. SeaQuest 2032 (He passed away in 2003.)
Mark-Paul Gosselaar. Saved by the Bell
Hint to those people who cast for movies and television shows: there are a bunch of women ages 25-32 who remember these men and others like them. Cast them. We will go see RomComs starring them. Promise. Rider and Mark-Paul especially.
Who were your tween/teen crushes?
(And P.S. remember when such questions couldn't be answered at the click of a mouse? You know, BI - before internet. Or maybe BG -before google. Either way, back in the day, when you had a random question, there was no way of answering it. You might ask the closest person to you, they would furrow their brow and shrug. And that would be that. No answer. Curiousity killed the cat back then, now the cat just looks it up on Wikipedia. But also, back then, fame was fleeting.) It's flashback time.
I had some serious crushes on many 90s teen heartthrobs (don't judge, but I'm pretty sure I had a collection of (playing) cards with boys faces on them). So now it's time to not only reveal my love interests, but also find out what happened to each of them.
Well - not so much find out what their doing, but rather, see what they look like now.
Jonathon Taylor Thomas. Home Improvement (and voice of Simba in The Lion King)
Rider Strong. Boy Meets World
Devon Sawa. Casper and Now and Then
Jonathan Brandis. SeaQuest 2032 (He passed away in 2003.)
Mark-Paul Gosselaar. Saved by the Bell
Hint to those people who cast for movies and television shows: there are a bunch of women ages 25-32 who remember these men and others like them. Cast them. We will go see RomComs starring them. Promise. Rider and Mark-Paul especially.
Who were your tween/teen crushes?
Friday, December 9, 2011
Foto Friday: Isolation
Date Taken: April 6, 2011 at 9:22 EDT
Camera: Canon EOS DIGITAL REBEL XT
F-Stop: f/22
Exposure Time: 1/160 sec.
ISO Speed: ISO-400
Focal length: 27 mm
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Feathered Valentino
One dress that has made recent appearances in two magazines is this lace and feathered Valentino Fall 2011 Couture Collection gown. It's spectacular. And I think we will see it on the red carpet in the upcoming months. So now when you see it, you can make the call. Who wore it best: the runway model, the Aussie model, Lady Gaga, or the lucky starlet?
 |
| Harper’s Bazaar Australia December 2011 Issue |
 |
| Lady Gaga featured in the January 2012 issue of Vanity Fair magazine |
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Whisper Sweet Nothings
Treat yourself or your loved one to a little something sweet with these wearable confections, handmade from crystallized sugar preserved in epoxy resin.
Stephanie Simek chisels off pieces of crystallized sugar from a larger "rock" to create each one of a kind piece. Studs are set on sterling silver posts with backings.
Because the crystallized sugar is a natural material, the shape of the stud may vary slightly in size and shape. A one-of-a-kind, unique gift for your sweetie out there.
Check 'em out.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
Zip it
Here are the materials and supplies you will need:
- A discarded or broken zipper, at least 15 inches long (the longer the zipper, the wider the cuff)
- Thread to match
- A long-ish needle
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Pin (optional)
Friday, December 2, 2011
Foto Friday: Texture
Date Taken: April 6, 2011 at 1:56 EDT (Eastern time even though we were in Arizona - I'm too lazy to do the conversion).
Camera: Canon EOS DIGITAL REBEL XT
F-Stop: f/20
Exposure Time: 1/160 sec.
ISO Speed: ISO-400
Focal length: 55 mm
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