neuf francs

New Blog Format

2010-01-19T08:51:00.004-07:00

Hello everyone! I hope you've had a lovely LONG weekend! Joseph and I spent the weekend hanging out with family, taking photographs, and in general relaxing. With all the scanning of old family photos and taking new photos, I did two fun things this weekend.

1. I finally got back my Flickr page and 2. I've been playing around with a new blog format that is more photo friendly than Blogger. We've landing with my new blog on Wordpress, which is more photo-centered than anything else.

Here is my new blog, temporary title V&N (it will change when I think of something creative) which I'll slowly be switching over to. I'll keep you updated on the progress!

Sad Passport Belonging To

2010-01-12T08:37:00.004-07:00

Yes, it is Stace's annual tradition of getting the travel itch, the travel bug... I've been anchored down and I really, really miss going to Europe and exotic far away lands where the warm air hits your legs and cheeks, the air smells of spices and you pass people just waiting to be known.

As usual, Kate Spade also has the travel itch, and makes me want to get on a plane this very moment. Destination: anywhere!

✈

Her new collection, I Resolve to Wear Out My Passport, is perfect for my trip to a tiny island off of Portugal, don't you think? A girl can dream, can't she?

photos via http://meghanmcneer.com/

The Young Victoria

2010-01-02T11:37:00.003-07:00

The Young Victoria

I need another English historical drama to get me through the month of January! I've made Joseph watch the entire Forsyte Saga, Series 1 with me throughout the winter break, but I'm hungry for more! Maybe I'm having a Masterpiece Theater withdraw since the cancelation of our cable. There's nothing wrong with a little bit of "dandy" and refined culture now and then! Queen and Country, right?

J.Crew in Lonny Magazine

2010-01-02T11:14:00.003-07:00

It's too bad I don't work in this J.Crew Collection store in New York City*... featured in Lonny Magazine.

*Currently changing my mind about looking forward to work (in a mall, in the suburbs).

And the Yarn Goes KABOOM!

2009-12-29T14:46:00.007-07:00

It goes by many names, knit graffiti, yarn bombing, guerrilla knitting, yarn storming...

Typical Christmas dinner conversations include talk of delicious food and drink, thankful wishes to friends and family, and remembering holidays past. But yarn bombing? College boy stalking strategies? Parities in our mouths - who's invited to yours? These are topics on our plate when eating with Jaren and Patrick.

Joseph hadn't been aware of our neighborhood knit graffiti at City O'City until this morning, after our conversation with Patrick about knit bombing, or yarn bombing. I'm a fan of this colorful, soft, and non-harmful rebellious artistic solidarity. It shows a certain spirit that captures the love of the process, not the immortality of the artwork. I'm attracted to those things that are temporary, fleeting, and non threatening. The artists that plant their bombs around our neighborhood is called the Ladies Fancywork Society. They seem to be a gang of free spirited knitting and crocheting girls who have a flare for saturated color and a whimsical sense of humor. But on the international scale, I ADORE the ladies of Knit the City! Their videos are the best!

You can watch an ABC video (yes, national news, which is weird) and read all about Yarn Bombing at Knit the City, Yarn Bombing.com, Visual Culture, Ladies Fancywork Society, and ArtYarn, just to name a few.

ABC Yarn Bombing in Denver video

Oh Blogs, How I Love Thee

2009-12-28T15:22:00.007-07:00

Alfred was obviously underdressed for his induction into the Adventurers Hall of Fame

Alfred, Louis and Francois after 12 years of preparation were surprised to find a cafe at the top of mount Everest

icons on the mountain

I've basically spent my day off/cold recovery doing the following:

Skype Mother
Drink tea
Opt not to shower
Deposit at bank
E.F. library to pick up my treasure trove of CD's, movies, and books
Fill Hans with gas, oil, windshield fluid
Target Rx cold meds and Kleenex
Lunch with Joseph
Watch Charlie Rose feat. Wes Anderson
Blog, read blogs, Facebook
Think about going to Fado's for Irish music/dance with friends tonight

I've discovered some new-to-me blogs that I just adore. Very Sasek, I must admit, but after all, he's got a good thing going, why mess with it? I love this aesthetic, these new blogs and artists. Thank goodness for creativity! Why didn't I think of these?

Matte Stephens (1&2)

Call Me Max(3)

Wayne Pate(4&5)

Rifle Paper Co. and Blog(6)

Post Christmas Blues

2009-12-28T14:19:00.010-07:00

All year I look forward to two things, my birthday (of course) and the holiday season. I love the city decorated in pretty lights, the way houses smell of ginger, cinnamon, and pine, drinking warm spiced wine, the long relaxing break from school, and the feeling of being close to family and friends. When everything is all said and done, I'm a little sad to see it all go back to normal. The lights are taken down, Christmas trees are put away (thanks Martha Stewart K-Mart xmas tree for another good season), and we must go back to work. I'm looking forward to 2010. Frankly, 2009, you were a bit difficult... CHEERS TO A NEW YEAR, but first...

Here is a little Christmas wrap up of our holiday going-ons in Denver! Thank you so much family and friends for the jubilant celebrations!

Christmas Eve with the Pings Family

Traditional Buche de Noel, Grandpa's fruit cake, and a night of numerous games including Christmas quiz, white elephant, and The Price is Right!

Christmas Day Events
Christmas morning mountain harvest french toast, free-range applewood smoked bacon, Bon Bonerie opera cream coffee using Apple's Irish coffee service! We spent the morning playing Scrabble, watching Rick Steve's European Christmas and The Royal Tenenbaums, lunch at The Bagel Deli - lox and latkes, and Christmas Dinner with Jaren and Patrick's family!

Making my new traditional Mario Batali's Mrs. Bean's Famous Nutmeg Ginger Apple Snaps (Joseph and Patrick approve)

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T08:29:00.004-07:00

To all my friends and family, whom I miss so so much today, I hope you have the happiest of holidays with your loved ones. I'll be thinking of you all on this wintery white Christmas day.

♥ Stace

Denmark Christmas Stamps

2009-12-24T13:31:00.003-07:00

I can't say what these have to do with Christmas, but I like the look of them nonetheless.

Today I FINALLY did some Christmas shopping for hostess gifts, family, and Joseph. It feels good to be simple this year - not getting involved in the "hype" as Jaren calls it.

I feel like some years I have worried so much about how many things I am getting this or that person, that I forget sometimes that Christmas time is about relaxation and spending quality time with my family and friends. Of course I would love to give amazing gifts that people really need and would make them smile, but this year is tough for not just us, but for so many people. So I think simplicity is sincerely making me feel weightless and very happy.

"It is a fair, even-handed, noble adjustment of things, that while there is infection in disease and sorrow, there is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good-humour."
- A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens

Relax

2009-12-22T09:25:00.001-07:00

This sums up so many things (the city is tearing these "relax and
enjoy your day" posters). Nice.

Two more days of work... I can get through this!

It Really is Fantastic; Fantastic Mr. Fox Makes the List

2009-12-21T11:55:00.006-07:00

I'm mad for the Foxes in Fantastic Mr. Fox, as we all very well know. This Christmas I think I'm adding a few items to the holiday "traditions" list, watching Fantastic Mr. Fox (Joseph, this is your department) and baking up a batch of Mario Batali's recipe for Mrs. Bean's Famous Nutmeg Ginger Apple Snaps! Why not? It really is fantastic, isn't it?

Recipe Courtesy of Mario Batali

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter

• 2 cups light brown sugar

• 1/2 cup molasses

• 2 eggs

• 3 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons ground ginger

• 1 teaspoons ground nutmeg

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

• 4 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• pinch of ground clove

• 3 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated

• 1/2 cup candied ginger, finely chopped

• 1 ½ cups dried apple rings, coarsely chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add molasses and eggs and mix well. In a separate bowl, combine flour, ground ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, baking soda, clove and salt. Mix well with fork and add to butter mixture. Blend in fresh, candied ginger and dried apple pieces. Drop by teaspoonful onto parchment covered baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Place one whole apple ring in the center of each teaspoon. Bake about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Cool. Enjoy!

Patrick also made me aware of their edition of the New Yorker featuring Wes Anderson. What's not to like about this guy? (Maybe a haircut - I like short hair)

Images and text via one of my favorite blogs, The Rushmore Academy

As we mentioned yesterday on Twitter, there’s a great new profile on Wes in this week’s New Yorker by Richard Brody. Click on the thumbnails below to read the article and let us know what you think in the comments.

L'Chaim

2009-12-19T12:01:00.003-07:00

Checking out holiday spirits for this week's hopefully many drinking events with friends, and stumbled upon The Chosen Beer of holiday brews - HE'BREW!

L'Chaim!

This prompted me to immediately post on Facebook, tag David, and bring up the question of a Sycamore High School Bar Mitzvah contest!

Choose between their wide variety of Talumdic beers, including Rejewvenator, Origin Pomegranate Ale, Bittersweet Lenny's R.I.P.A., Genesis Ale, Messiah Bold, and Jewbelation!

As for Christmas holiday spirits, there are many to choose from, all so tasty and delicious, but I feel like Santa might be enjoying a lonely drink too much in this illustration for White Rock and Whiskey. Just look at those tell tale signs! Red nose and cheeks. Intervention time, buddy.

Santa and White Rock made their Life Magazine debut in the December 12, 1923 issue.

It appears that Santa enjoyed a little whiskey with his White Rock while trying to decide if you were naughty or nice.

The ad also suggests that White Rock Ginger Ale was a good choice.

Says Ken Wheaton of Advertising Age: "It's clear why Santa is jolly. He's about a third of the way through a bottle of whisky." - From White Rocking

Final Friday ~ Winter Break Begins!

2009-12-18T10:35:00.002-07:00

Delight in one of the most beautiful snowfalls imaginable. Paper snowflakes hovering in midair are the answer to your children's wishes for a snowy day. Kids can happily occupy themselves cutting out dozens of paper snowflakes. Then adults can step in with thread and tape, and together you can watch your family's own gentle blizzard materialize.

Kids' Instructions: How to Make Paper Snowflakes
A few quick snips with the tip of your scissors is all it takes to create a beautiful, six-pointed snowflake. Start with a square piece of paper -- if you don't know how to make one, ask a grownup to help you.

Step 1: Fold the paper in half diagonally to make a triangle.

Step 2: Now, fold the triangle in half so the pointy corners meet.

Steps 3 and 4: Fold your triangle in thirds. You may need to adjust these folds a little to get the sides to match up, so don't crease the paper until the folds are just right.

Step 5: Cut across the bottom of your paper so it is straight.

Cutting Snowflakes: Cut your folded paper so it looks like the triangle above. Then unfold it gently. Don't worry if your snowflake isn't exact: No two snowflakes are ever alike.

Today I'm expecting the students to bounce of the walls with excitement for their last day of school. In this event, I'm planning a lesson about snowflakes! The students will make cards with hand-cut snowflakes, have their turn at playing the accordion, and watch the Nutcracker! It should be a fun day, hopefully no crying, or scissor accidents ;)

Martha Stewart has a nice layout of paper snowflakes on her website, but there are literally hundreds of sites you can get templates from, or the kids can just be creative and wing it!

Stacey's Workshoppe

2009-12-17T17:00:00.001-07:00

If only my rabbits (or Joseph) would be my little elves and bake some
cookies while I'm at dance class... I've put together the boxes and
made my cards for the girls at the elementary school. The only thing
missing is freshly baked hazelnut cinnamon crescent cookies from Bon
Appetit!

The Christmas Tree

2009-12-17T16:15:00.002-07:00

Nietzsche and Vienn adore sleeping under and next to their beloved
Christmas tree! I came home this afternoon to find Nietzsch, Vienn,
Rupert and Joseph fast asleep enjoying their afternoon nap.

Christmas Cookies Bon Appetit

2009-12-17T08:25:00.004-07:00

Tomorrow morning I am baking cookies for the girls (and guy) at work, Ginny, Jane, Carol, Karen, Liz, The Mary's, and Mr. Lee for all their help and support at my new school! They are the best team anyone could ask for! Ginny, my mentor teacher, has especially been amazing and almost like my "aunt away from home" here in Colorado. She reminds me so much of Kathy! I wrapped a special little necklace that she can wear and I think the kids will think it is beautiful!

But this brings me to the question of what Christmas cookie should I make?

I need something simple, but delicious that's easy to pack up. I'm looking through Bon Appetit's Cookie Workshop in order to get a few ideas.

What are you favorite holiday cookies?

Joseph and I traditionally make gingerbread cookies every Christmas Eve, and I think this Bon Appetit New England Molasses Gingerbread recipe will fit the bill. I also saw in my Martha Stewart Magazine a cute little gingerbread house that I think Joseph and I will have to recreate!

Thank you Jude for a wonderful year of MS Magazines! We've enjoyed them so much!

Speaking of Martha Stewart...

You can watch Carson Kressley attempt to make a gingerbread house with Martha on her website. Mom and I love Carson!

Before I Learned How to Walk

2009-12-16T09:45:00.007-07:00

I learned to ice skate... from SALLY SCOTT. Shout out to Simplesong for sharing these lovely findings... always a beautiful blog to sift through.

I've heard stories of the McCoy's and Scott's on ice skating outings with Pammy, but I've never had the pleasure. I'm sure it was exciting and full of bruises! I've ice skated many times and I enjoy it! Our friend has a little pond in her backyard that she freezes for her children to play hockey and ice skate on! It's just like Little Women!

Gift tags via Etsy

Lartigue's Winter Pictures, one of my favorite books in our "Pings Library"

Holiday Sampler

2009-12-16T08:33:00.004-07:00

This week iTunes is offering a free Holiday Music Sampler for free! Thanks iTunes! I just loaded the playlist onto Tino, my iPhone, so I can listen to The First Noel and other jingles during my commute!

Click HERE to get your festive playlist for your Christmas Eve full of games, stringing popcorn, making cookies, and opening presents by the fireside!

Speaking of sampler... For those of you in the Nati this winter, you might want to sample a few Christian Moerlein winter brews! It's local! Help Cincy micro brews survive this winter by throwing back a Christkindl!

Chestnuts Roasting

2009-12-15T23:15:00.001-07:00

Cracking the Nut

2009-12-15T23:13:00.001-07:00

Opening hot chestnuts!

Christ is Born

2009-12-15T23:12:00.001-07:00

Well, this isn't Christ, but Rascal as Jesus!
Tonight Joseph and I celebrated the holiday season by roasting
chestnuts (not over an open fire unfortunately), but in the oven! Just
as good! The house smells good and the nut were lightly dusted with
cinnamon sugar. Thanks Joseph for the festive snack! I also kicked off
the holiday season by watching Rick Steve's European Christmas and
Home Alone. Next on the Xmas movie list is Love Actually! What are
some of your favorite Xmas movies?

Der weihnachtsbaum!

2009-12-14T19:35:00.001-07:00

Pings christmas tree decorated and far from the forest.

Can't wait to play Carcassonne, drink hot chocolate, and listen to
Dolly and Kenny!

England

2009-12-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

The month of December the kids have a special fun project, passports!
These passports are more like scrapbooks of what the students have
learned on their "trips" around the world. This is Jacapo's passport
page of London. So cute!

Wicked Smart; Harvard vs. Yale

2009-12-14T08:29:00.003-07:00

Hollister Hovey restores faith in me that tradition still lives! Since I can't experience this brilliant rivalry for myself, I can live vicariously through her! These are directly from her site. You can read her post about the big game here. Embrace the prep, people.

Trail of Crumbs

2009-12-13T20:30:00.006-07:00

New Yorker slideshow HANSEL AND GRETEL

Dear Universe,

One of my dreams in life is to visit NYC, actually step foot outside the airport, see a show at the MET, like this charming Hansel & Gretel, and see Angel Corella perform with the American Ballet Theatre (and get an autograph). Can you please arrange this for me? I would be very grateful.

Fondly,

Stace

P.S. I'd also like to see Nine and have lunch with Daniel Day-Lewis. I find him very attractive. Thank you.

Fulham

2009-12-13T19:43:00.004-07:00

Take a look at the great slideshow, HERE

I decided my new favorite team is Fulham. I picked this team mainly because my new favorite randomly picked Irish soccer player, Damien Duff, member of team Ireland FAI, also plays for Fulham in the Premier League.

When we had cable, Joseph loved watching PL soccer and kept me up to date on scores and players. I used to root for Manchester City, but then they got money and became somewhat good. I like the underdog. Who dey.

I love Fulham's history and the tradition of the Cottage. It seems very Wrigley Field to me. Although since I'm not English, I have a hard time comparing it to anything I know of. I love these old photos taken from the 40's-60's. Maybe one day soccer will take off in America like it has for England. Until then, we've got cool sports like football, which is very similar to rugby, and baseball which is really just a shorter version of cricket.

Cute Overload

2009-12-13T19:32:00.004-07:00

Read the rabbit and dear's story HERE at the photographer's website!

The fawn was given the name Finchen and lived in a garden at the edge of the small village. Finchen was growing and developing very well, but was probably lonely without other deer around.

One day, a wild rabbit showed up and stayed near the fawn. At first, the two were only observed together at dusk or at night. They always grazed in the same corner of the garden, but kept a certain distance from one another
Winter came and the small fawn had turned into a beautiful doe, but not even snow could keep the little rabbit away from Finchen. Instead of staying in its cozy warren, it remained on Finchen’s side at night. The two rested very close to each other under the spruce trees at the edge of the garden. They also stayed together to feed. With her long legs, Finchen was able to remove the snow cover to access grass, which also benefited her little friend.

Thanks mom for sending this to me - like I need another reason to be a crazy bunny lady! Rabbits love to snuggle.

Our rabbits are doing very well. Since it is winter, our favorite time of year, the little lapins are snuggling, playing with the tree skirt, and keeping themselves toasty warm. Vienn, Nietzsche, and Rupert (Juri) have been working on the bonding thing. A few nights ago we put them together successfully without many scuffles to say. Although they can't be alone, or Vienn will bite someone's head off. It is a long process and a little stressful, but I can tell that Juri wants to be friends. He comes waving a white flag.

Vienn visits the vet on Tuesday for her teary eye. All signs are normal, except for that runny right eye of hers. She is in her elder years, so I want to keep a close watch on her well-being. I'll let you know the update. I don't have any recent pictures of her. The camera has been at the Pings house with a broken flash. I do miss taking pictures of the rabbits, but I know I'll have time in the future.

Another Brilliant Find via Black Eiffel; Ingrid Sophie Schram

2009-12-09T09:10:00.003-07:00

INGRID SOPHIE SCHRAM

Black Eiffel shares her post about "bohemian feminine style of model + actress Ingrid Sophie Schram" and I just couldn't resist sharing it with you guys! Notice the blue gingham shirt in the middle!!! No wonder I like her!

Taken from Black Eiffel - Photos by the Selby, William Gentle from a new to me favorite blog - Backyard Bill. He takes photos of people in their own clothes -- love it. Check out his work + blog super stuff there, like this guy.

Family Affairs in December

2009-12-07T17:47:00.007-07:00

my "old English farmer" hat

Buffalo Plaid is the only style! Smokey thinks so too.

Timber!

The Pings family favorite - using sharp objects to cut things down.

Torturing the animals

Elizabeth's side of the family

Grandma Pings with her puppy

Thanksgiving - Donald, Joseph, and William

The Pings family

GO BEARCATS!!!

The Moscow Ballet Nutcracker, downtown Denver

I've been a little busy...

Bonnie December at J.Crew

2009-12-03T09:50:00.002-07:00

I want to make Joseph wear all of these wonderful buffalo check, argyle, tartan, and plaid things from J.Crew, but I have a feeling he wouldn't let me if I tried!

Unfortunately, J.Crew decided that women do not need buffalo check pajama pants, or else I'd probably be wearing them right now. I don't think I'm brave enough to have a union suit... even if you do wear it under your jeans and sweaters ;)

A Partridge in a Pear Tree

2009-12-03T09:14:00.004-07:00

When I arrive to work early I enjoy perusing through Pottery Barn's menagerie of sparkle, snowflakes, and evergreen. I can't help but get into the spirit when I'm surrounded by perfectly constructed Christmas trees and fake living room sets that I could only dream of having. Kind of like Maggie's house! It is just like PB! This season, PB has particularly cute stocking stuffers that makes it difficult to resist!

Sunday we have the day off so we can treck into the mountains to cut down our tree, decorate while listening to dapper holiday music (like Dolly & Kenny, Charlie Brown, and dad's new CD of classics), string popcorn, wear plaid (just kidding), watch holiday movies like Home Alone and Elf all the while drinking hot chocolate and eating cookies! Well, this may be a tall order, but if I dream it - it will happen! I want to do all the classically cheesy things people do on the holidays because it always looks like fun! And besides - why not?

Today is the start of a busy end of the week for me. Although for some reason all I could manage to do this morning so far is eat oatmeal, drink tea, empty the dishwasher, watch Indiana Jones, go through our holiday box from mom and dad (THANK YOU!!!), brush my teeth, and update my blog. Motivation when it is colder than 20* F is a rough one. I honestly do not want to move away from my duvet and space heater with the rabbit keeping my lap warm! Thanks Rupert!

I have my first practice tonight as a 20 & O at 6:15, after a mandatory meeting for my license from 4-6. Busy afternoon driving ALL OVER TOWN. Tomorrow I have to pick up items from the library (like the new Fantastic Mr. Fox soundtrack), create a White Elephant gift and buy wine for our elementary staff party, then drive back down to Denver for our family outing to the Nutcracker! The Parade of Lights is also going on that evening, so it might be difficult to maneuver around the city. Saturday Joseph and I have important plans to watch football (Go Bearcats! *see below) and Sunday is of course our holiday extravaganza! I hope that Kari has a very enjoyable last few days here in the Nati! Have a very Merry Cincy-style Christmas celebration with the family this week!

Pittsburgh

Day:		Saturday
Date:		Dec. 5, 2009
Location:		Pittsburgh, Pa.
Time:		12:00 p.m. ET

Nesting Dolls Day One

2009-12-02T15:42:00.001-07:00

Today this kids started work on their nesting dolls, but since I had a
sub yesterday and I was a little behind on prep work, they had to use
yellow paper! We read The Littlest Matryoshka, then began work on the
dolls. The students can chose their subjects - family, pets, football
players, or the characters from the book (etc.) so you'll see some
Bronocs players in the mix when I add more photos :)

I've been a little quiet on my blog lately, but I have some time later
tonight to fill you in on my week!

Artwork: First grader working on the matryoshka characters from our
story!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2009-11-26T07:34:00.002-07:00

A little treat for Thanksgiving by Amy Atlas!

I am thankful for so many things, as you know, but most of all, my family and friends. No matter where you are, I am always thinking of you and thankful that I have you in my life!

♥

To you and your family, from Joseph, the rabbits, and yours truly,

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Red!

2009-11-25T22:43:00.002-07:00

I've joined the ranks of women who've changed their natural hair
color! I've always been one to keep it simple, but I kind of like my
new red hair. I used a photo of Bonnie Wright as my inspiration, and
although her hair looks natural, I think this is a close as I can get
without going overboard. My new hairdresser is a friend and fellow
J.Crewzer who does amazing things with hair. Almost everyone at our
store gets their hair done by her and they all look brilliant! She
said in natural light my hair will look different, so I'm anxious to
see the results via daylight!!! I'm hoping this new red hair will
channel my inner Irish dancer - who I've named Orla. ;) which means
"golden queen/princess" even though I've passed down my title to
Ellie, I think it still stands true!

Famous Orlas in the world:

Rudolph

2009-11-25T22:17:00.004-07:00

I'm gearing up for Black Friday! All the girls at the Crew are wearing sparkles, glitz, and bling for the big shopping extravaganza on Friday. I opted for the beaded reindeer tee and the starburst v-neck tee.

Tis the season!

Training Day 3

2009-11-24T18:18:00.004-07:00

My beautiful view from my daily training. I got new glittens today,
glove + mittens so I can change my iTunes songs without taking off my
gloves. Plus my other Nike gloves had a huge hole in them :(

The video from Oireachtas is posted so you can see the tough
competiton. The girl in the white Bjork swan/cream puff/80's short wedding dress
won the 20 & over div. I think there were more talented dancers who
should have taken first, but that dress, fake tan, and barbie wig
gets some attention.

Speaking of fake, tomorrow I'm going red! I'll take pictures!

Pings party for Six!

2009-11-24T12:07:00.001-07:00

Donald is in town for Thanksgiving! I'll post more later, but for now
Joseph is toasting his visit with a 2 Below, cheers!

To the Pointe; Angel Corella

2009-11-23T21:26:00.004-07:00

Angel Corella official website

My new obsession in the world of ballet is Angel Corella (link to video about A.C.) of the American Ballet Theater.

I watched Great Performances Swan Lake last night to conclude my weekend of dance-inspired events and to get geared up to see the Moscow Ballet Dec. 4. I'm slowly going through the collection of Angel Corella videos, including the romantic and tragic Romeo & Juliet seen above.

I'm not sure if my love for ballet comes from the costumes, the movement, the energy, the sensuality, or envy of dancers who reach such perfection and strength. Maybe this aspect alone has inspired me for my next chapter in dance. I've started my training for dancing - day 2. I'm so inspired that it has brought me to act of running. If you know me at all then you know that I detest running. With that said, watching ballet and the Irish dancers this weekend has stirred a desire to "want to be more, want to do more."

In another life I would adore being a ballet dancer. I'll save those thoughts for my dreams.

Oireachtas 2009

2009-11-22T16:16:00.005-07:00

Ladies 8 hand cross reel with coach Mark

Our best 8 hand yet

Leap of Faith during cross reel

Taking 2nd place at awards ceremony

Mark, far left, qualifying for Worlds in Scotland! Congrats!

Sunday, at last... This weekend of Irish dancing has worn me out completely, but has given me inspiration.

Our dance team performed the 8-hand cross reel against 5 other teams on Saturday morning. It was our best performance yet and everyone was beaming. To me it didn't matter if we placed first or last because I had so much fun. I could barely contain my happiness on stage!

The big event for the day was the dance dramas performed by several schools throughout the Western region. The dramas consisted of experienced dancers to small children, and ranged in genres from traditional Irish themes to a recreation of the movie Chicago. Our school performed two pieces, the Battle of the Birds and Seamus and the Magic Pipes. Neither placed, but they definitely won the cute factor - we were the only dance drama with small children dressed like sheep. It was great.

Much later that night, all the wigged-out, fake orange tan, tacky dress Irish dancers piled into one large ballroom for the awards ceremony. To my surprise, the ceremony opened with a huge dance party consisting of YMCA, Macarena, and the kicker, Barbie Girl by Aqua. I've never seen a sea of bouncing wigs before, but I guess there is a first for everything.

Our ladies figure ended up recalling and placing 2nd out of 5, so we were very happy, but I could tell that some of my teammates really wanted first. I understand, but I'm just not that competitive. It was a very fun day and I got a medal out of it, so life this weekend was good to me.

This afternoon our coach and friend, Mark, danced his heart out against boys half his age in the Men's 20 & O opens. I don't know the results, but the fact that he was dancing in that league was impressive enough for me, and a huge inspiration.

As of today, I am no longer an adult dancer - I have dropped down and will begin my career dancing with 20 & O ladies. I think I might have to start as a Novice, but one of the teachers said I might be able to start right away in Prizewinner (Novice, Prizewinner, Prelim, then Open). I've got a lot of work ahead of me, but it is about time I take the plunge. It will be gratifying and challenging and hopefully fun in the process.

Dance Drama from Oireachtas

2009-11-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

I'll post more in a few, but for now here is a picture of our dance
drama!!!

John Lennon's Jukebox

2009-11-17T20:11:00.003-07:00

A looong while back Joseph and I watched this amazing show about an old jukebox which belonged to John Lennon. I think there is something magical about a little treasure that tells a story like Lennon's jukebox. Watching this show made me feel as if the jukebox was breathing and living still, giving new life to old things, not to be forgotten.

You can watch all the videos HERE, so enjoy. It's worth it. Da, I hope you've seen this!

In 1989, a Bristol music promoter purchased at auction an old Discomatic jukebox owned by John Lennon in the 1960s. Its track list, written in Lennon's own hasty handwriting, catalogued 41 remarkable discs of American soul, R&B, and rock 'n' roll -- a collection that shaped his musical education and became the musical style source from which the Beatles sound derived. Below is a complete list of all the 45s included in the jukebox.

"In the Midnight Hour"
Wilson Pickett
"Rescue Me"
Fontella Bass
"Tracks of My Tears"
Smokey Robinson
"My Girl"
Otis Redding
"1, 2, 3"
Len Barry
"Hi Heel Sneakers"
Tommy Tucker
"Walk"
Jimmy McCracklin
"Gonna Send You Back to Georgia"
Timmy Shaw
"First I Look at the Purse"
The Contours
"New Orleans"
Gary "U.S." Bonds
"Watch Your Step"
Bobby Parker
"Daddy Rollin' Stone"
Derek Martin
"Short Fat Fannie"
Larry Williams
"Long Tall Sally"
Little Richard
"Money (That's What I Want)"
Barrett Strong
"Hey! Baby"
Bruce Channel
"Positively 4th Street"
Bob Dylan
"Daydream"
The Lovin' Spoonful
"Turquoise"
Donovan
"Slippin' and Slidin'"
Buddy Holly
"Be-Bop-A-Lula"
Gene Vincent
"No Particular Place to Go"
Chuck Berry
"Steppin' Out"
Paul Revere
"Do You Believe in Magic"
The Lovin' Spoonful
"Some Other Guy"
The Big Three
"Twist and Shout"
The Isley Brothers
"She Said "Yeah""
Larry Williams
"Brown Eyed Handsome Man"
Buddy Holly
"Slippin' and Slidin'"
Little Richard
"Quarter to Three"
Gary "U.S." Bonds
"Ooh My Soul"
Little Richard
"Woman Love"
Gene Vincent
"Shop Around"
The Miracles
"Bring It on Home to Me"
The Animals
"If You Gotta Make a Fool of Somebody"
James Ray
"What's So Good About Goodbye"
The Miracles
"Bad Boy"
The Miracles
"Agent Double O Soul"
Edwin Starr
"I've Been Good to You"
The Miracles
"Oh I Apologize"
Barrett Strong
"Who's Lovin' You"
The Miracles

Winter Lesson, Da Darling

2009-11-17T08:30:00.005-07:00

I'm gearing up for my next lesson for the little kids - we are traveling to Russia for the winter months ahead. I debated taking them to Lapland or Norway, but the resources are more difficult to come across. So Russia it is, darlings! And of course when I say traveling, I really mean teaching them units about these far-off destinations, relating it to art appreciation.

I'm not sure about the specifics yet, but I thought it would be fun to hit areas of architecture with watercolor St. Basil's Cathedral, performing arts and literature with the Nutcracker story/ballet (as well as contemporary takes on this classic story), and of course what Russian lesson would be complete without a Matryoshka? I've already loaded tons of books onto my waiting list at the library, gathered lesson plan ideas, and checked my art education standards. There are so many resources, projects, and articles, that the LA Times referred to it as Matryoshka Madness. Artists have given their take on the nesting dolls FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE, (some suck, but as a whole they are an interesting collection). I am positive the kids will like it and produce some amazing art in the meantime! Here are some cute videos about Matryoshka dolls (not necessarily for the kids, but fun nonetheless).

Tuesday Tunes

2009-11-17T08:03:00.002-07:00

Remember Rave On by Buddy Holly? Here's an updated version by M. Ward, Hold On. I'm a traditionalist in some cases, so I like the original, of course. But it's always refreshing to hear a new take on things. Enjoy.

M. Ward - Subterranean - MTV Shows

My fellow J.Crewzer, Kelly, and I have been breaking down the playlist at work. We discussed our favorites and not-so favs and both agree that Camera Obscura is the creme de la creme. I've also latched onto David Bowie once more, some oldies, but goodies that I haven't listened to since high school, and The Postmarks' charming little song, Winter Spring Summer Fall.

I have more waiting for me at Eugene Field so you can guess what I'll be doing today after work! I love the library and my darling librarians. They all have their strange quarks.

The White Stuff

2009-11-15T10:46:00.001-07:00

A Brilliantly white Sunday morning.

Ski day!

2009-11-14T09:07:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the freshy nar nar at Keystone! Happy Saturday everyone!

A Whale of a Time

2009-11-12T20:50:00.006-07:00

UPDATE

Bree's Book List

Sometimes the books they tell you to read in high school are good and sometimes they are such a snooz! I'm not the biggest fan of The Great Gatsby, I think This Side of Paradise is a more interesting Fitzgerald choice. Other good ones that should be on the lists more often: Lolita by Nabokov, The Count of Monte Christo by Dumas, On the Road by Jack Kerouac, the Town and the City by Jack Kerouac, Look Homeward Angel by Thomas Wolfe. I finished Gone with the Wind not too long ago and it was great!! I'm now reading a biography on Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, by Amanda Foreman, and am hoping to get to The Magus by John Fowles and The Waves by Virginia Woolfe.

Thank you, Bree!

man cannot see the depths of the ocean

I've never read Moby Dick, and to be honest with you, I'm not that interested. Somewhere along the way I feel that I've failed at reading the classics. I'm a horrible reader, but I love vividly wild tales. I remember very few, The Crucible, The Scarlet Letter, Shakespeare, Secret Garden, The Great Gatsby, Lord of the Flies, The Red Badge of Courage, and of course The Catcher in the Rye (you may appreciate this article from NY TIMES, Get a Life Holden Caulfield). There are others, I know, because Sycamore High School had standards (I'm third generation, after all). I bet if Bree was writing this, she'd be able to list countless books!

Maybe I should start reading more... any suggestions? Where to start?

“The Catcher in the Rye,” published in 1951, is still a staple of the high school curriculum, beloved by many teachers who read and reread it in their own youth. The trouble is today’s teenagers. Teachers say young readers just don’t like Holden as much as they used to. What once seemed like courageous truth-telling now strikes many of them as “weird,” “whiny” and “immature.”

Today's Lesson

2009-11-12T09:31:00.002-07:00

Patrick is always giving me new songs to listen to from a wide variety of genres. I cherish all the mixes he has made for me! My goal is to find tunes for him to listen to, which his wife, Jaren, told me is virtually impossible! He is in the know! He spends much of his time reading the latest in music and trying out new bands - then distributes them to me :) It is tough to beat his superior expertise! I must mention that Patrick's band, Makeout Point, plays their first show this December! Rock on!

Today I'm listening to a play list from Public School, a website I frequent. Notice the bonus track* Marty Robbins! The Pings will appreciate that!

What's in the Kitchen?

2009-11-11T09:20:00.003-07:00

Aren't these charming? I appreciate their simplicity!

Czechoslovakian and Polish Labels

Last night after work I picked up the long-awaited DVD release of Two Fat Ladies, one of the first cooking shows I remember watching with mom and dad, before I thought cooking shows were cool. I'm on season 2 already, and I have to say the Two Fat Ladies, Clarissa and Jennifer are charming and so brilliant. What great personalities! And what great food!

A tasty blend of cookery and hilarity, Two Fat Ladies was a hit on British and American television in the 1990s. Jennifer Paterson and Clarissa Dickson Wright traveled around Britain on a motorbike with sidecar, preparing sumptuous feasts for all kinds of folks from lumberjacks to monks. Their recipes were never pretentious and always full of big old-fashioned flavor. Set includes all 24 episodes; approx. 12 hours 11 min. on 4 DVDs. As Jennifer would say, Quelle treat! Seen on public television. Available at http://www.acornonline.com !

Beer Here

2009-11-11T09:09:00.004-07:00

Last night I stumbled across these old adverts for Cinci Cream. I've never heard of it, let alone tried it! Joseph said that Cincinnati used to have amazing breweries due to the Germany population. It is a shame that for the most part, they've all gone. I know there is a push to reintroduce Cincinnati beers, and I hope to see a revolution in Cincinnati micro brews.

Cheers! Or should I say Prost!

Stace

2009-11-10T22:04:00.003-07:00

I am not referring to myself, but Robert, Bob, Stace, or better known to me as Grandpa Stacey. Just the other day while folding clothes (notice the J.Crew theme) I tucked down the arms of a soft navy blue sweater. Immediately a flow of memories from childhood overcame me. Memories of sitting on Grandfather's lap, listening to stories about Australia, boats, horses, and farms, touching his soft hands, and looking at his silver watch. I remember so vividly hearing Reds games in the background and his smell, a combination of cologne and gin, spices and aromas still on his navy sweater from something very Julia Child-esque cooking in their small kitchen. It saddens me that I didn't know him for long enough. He will never know me as an adult, know Joseph, our children, or know how close mom and I are. But I consider myself happy to remember little things about him. I'm sure we would get along well and have some pretty amazing conversations.

Currently I regret to say I do not have any photos of my Grandfather Stacey. However, I have a large project of scanning and uploading photos to Flickr of Meyer, McCoy, Scott, and Stacey pics from yesteryear. I'll keep you posted when this happens.

A Simple Tune

2009-11-10T20:30:00.002-07:00

I just realized how much I love singing. Since working at J.Crew I have found myself singing uncontrollably to the surprisingly good playlist. I blame this on father, his love for music and singing, Apple for singing to him, and the Beatles. My childhood memories include listening to amazing 60's LPs, making little colorful walls with the album covers, falling asleep to father signing "Her Majesty" (and countless, seriously countless other songs), and waking up to Little Lulu "always in and out of trouble, but mostly always in".

On our adventures throughout the many hidden treasures of Cincinnati we would drive and he would sing. I would listen and learn. I don't think it was until much later that I appreciated those things. I might not have the voice that father has, but I do love a nice little tune. Still to this day I can't really hear Paul McCartney's voice in "I Love Her", I hear father's.

One of my ex-students, now in college, shared with me how envious he is that I was able to grow up with this amazing genre of music (from the 60's). And I have to admit, yeah, I'm pretty lucky to have cool hippie parents who let me listen to their music - a part of their world. Throughout their continuous parenting, they have certainly taught me a lot, but I'll save that for another post...

Enjoy some classic Beatles, my favorites from euphoric childhood memories.

White and Fluffy

2009-11-08T20:31:00.005-07:00

UPDATE

Kari's Christmas Tradition

From the time I was little we would always go cut down a tree. They always had the tall skinny trees and we had the short lopsided ugly ones- always our favorites. My mom always packed a thermos of hot chocolate.

Rabbits and snow... ah... some of my favorite things!

Image from Snow Zone

We were scheduled for some flurries this evening, but so far we've had a nice sunset and a nice chill in the air. All the stores are decorated with lights and tinsel, Christmas music is already in the air. Working at the mall has me thinking about the holidays. The Pings family is planning on cutting down our own tree this year! We have to get permits before it's too late! Mr. Pings also reserved tickets to see the Moscow Ballet perform the Nutcracker! I've asked father to record a holiday CD with some classics so we can listen to it while decorating the house. The holidays are the best time of the year!

What are some of your holiday traditions? Favorite holiday music? Tastiest winter food/drink?

Moscow Ballet

What Dreams May Come

2009-11-08T08:56:00.004-07:00

Today I'm missing Apple...

Since September I've dreamt of seeing Apple (our grandma) numerous times. Last night I had yet another dream of seeing her with the family. In one part of my dream the entire family was across the street from Apple's house, enjoying an afternoon picnic in the sun. My imagination created this amazing little stream that the children raced boats on, little tents filled with lemon ice and sweets, airplanes flew around us, and we sat on vivid green grass. It was very relaxed and everyone was happy. Other dreams she has shown up in a grocery store with a big list of items being checked off one by one with a pencil. She doesn't talk to me, just keeps drawing lines on her paper, leaning on her cart, smiling and humming.

Another dream was around the holidays, with snow fluttering outside, Christmas lights, and family members taking pictures (I'm not the only one taking photos in a dream world)! The family was gathered to watch a Christmas performance of Ellie's school play! Although the dreams were very happy and I woke up feeling a sense of love and euphoria, it made me sad that I couldn't talk to Apple in my dream. We used to have conversations in my moments of slumber, but since September that has been silenced. I'm not sad that she isn't on my speed dial, she won't be there on holidays, or that she won't send cards in the mail anymore, but it is difficult to let go of those nice little conversations we had. I know everyone feels the same :)

New (to me)

2009-11-06T08:50:00.003-07:00

Twig and Thistle

Sycamore Street Press

My Tree and Me

I'm a collector of blogs and websites, and these little gems are some of my new favorites! I love the family trees from My Tree and Me - what a perfect gift!

Red Hot

2009-11-06T08:12:00.004-07:00

In attempts to be a cooler person, I've been venturing out into the music world a little bit, thanks to Patrick. Patrick is the drummer in a local band, who not only has extensive knowledge in music, but just about everything else you can imagine. He is our Wednesday night trivia secret weapon. He is super cool, reads the New Yorker, has a vivid imagination, and did I mention he is an only child, like yours truly? Since we've known Patrick, he has made countless mix tapes (CDs) for us that have changed our music listening habits.

I've been listening to independent bands from all over the world, many coming out of the NY scene. Yesterday I finally picked up Dark Was the Night, a mix of bands I'm really digging right now. Here are the artists involved with the project:

Andrew Bird, Antony, Arcade Fire, Beach House, Beirut, Blonde Redhead, Bon Iver, The Books, Buck 65, David Byrne, Cat Power & Dirty Delta Blues,The Decemberists, Aaron Dessner, Bryce Dessner, Devastations, Dirty Projectors, Kevin Drew, Feist, Ben Gibbard, Grizzly Bear, Iron & Wine, Jose Gonzalez, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, Kronos Quartet, Stuart Murdoch, My Brightest Diamond, My Morning Jacket, The National, The New Pornographers, Conor Oberst, Riceboy Sleeps,Serengeti, Dave Sitek, Spoon, Sufjan Stevens, Gillian Welch, Yeasayer, Yo La Tengo

Paris, je t'aime

2009-11-06T07:56:00.004-07:00

Darling Clementine

One of my ex-students emailed me with this fantastic excitement that he will travel to Paris this Thanksgiving! It will be Ben's first experience traveling to Paris, but since we studied Paris and French art extensively in my art history class last year, he feels connected to The City of Lights. I somehow feel validated for making my freshmen sit through an entire year of art history! In a way I've reached my ultimate goal, connecting my students to the outside world and the art that surrounds us all. At least my students left my class knowing about the Louvre, Mona Lisa, Primavera, Dada, Santa Maria del Fiore, Caravaggio, and how Vincent Van Gogh really needed some medication and a little love, just to name a few things... But when it all comes down to it, Ben best expressed the excitement of going to a city like Paris:

I will take an open mind, it sounds rad! I'm pumped for the cheese, but really everything sounds great.

French Films, Ooh La La!

To get into the spirit, why not watch some French Flicks on this Fabulous Friday?

I had to add this clip after Gramercy Gaslight Girl's delightful reminder of a scene in Paris, je t'aime! Merci! I love this scene too!

Hand in Hand

2009-11-05T07:15:00.004-07:00

Kate Spade Mittens

"we worked with war survivors in bosnia through our hand in hand program, a partnership with women for women international, to create these charming colorblocked mittens. knit entirely by hand, they're expertly crafted with a sweet striped print. hands down, the perfect pair"

Three little kittens,

They lost their mittens,

And they began to cry,

Oh, mother, dear,

We sadly fear,

Our mittens we have lost.

Oh dear, don't fear

Come in and have some pie!

Big Shot

2009-11-04T09:00:00.004-07:00

Yesterday morning I FINALLY got my seasonal flu shot! Although it is not the H1N1 vaccine, it will have to do. I don't have a problem with shots or needles at all (I've had way too many surgeries and hospital experiences to care at this point), but OUCH my arm is really sore today!!! Last night the pain woke me up because I think I rolled over on my left arm. Yikes!

My Tuesday felt more like a Monday. After my trip to the doctors office Joseph made lunch and I was on my way to work. It is my 2 month anniversary at J.Crew, so I was finally able to pick out my Crew Clothes, free clothes that I can wear to work! I think it is a nice offer - Anthropologie never gave us clothes. J.Crew rolled out their Winter/Holiday collection (part 1) yesterday so start getting your Christmas lists ready! How can you resist ballet slippers and soft pajama pants? Think cozy thoughts...

I picked out very simple items that we will always have in our store, dark matchstick jeans and a grey boyfriend-style cardi. It reminds me of the sweaters college boys used to wear back in the day when college had some style. Or maybe the college of my imagination. Of course there are new pieces that I just couldn't resist, like my "farm" checked shirt! In the period one week, we saw Jamie Oliver and a girl working for Hugh Fearnly Whittingstal both wearing it!

I got home late and was feeling weak and tired (the nurse warned me of this) so I cleaned up the house a little, ate dinner, and watched two of my favorite movies, Science of Sleep and Adventures in Babysitting! It's one of those movies I watched over and over again when I was younger. Plus it's one of mom's all-time favorites too! What is YOUR favorite 1980's movie? (So many to choose from)

I love the quintessentially 80's opening scene!

Simple Fleabag

2009-11-02T09:05:00.004-07:00

White, clean, simple.

When we go to the flea market, the grocery store, or any other place where we are likely to buy a ton of stuff, we have very specific requirements about the bag we bring along: it has to be big but not unwieldy, chic but functional, and possibly made out of earth-friendly materials. And look! We have found something that fits our myriad of requirements— miracle of miracles! The Fleabag is made out of organic cotton/hemp canvas, with a vegetable-tanned leather bottom to keep it tough. These limited-edition bags, which are lined in cute striped material, have the edition numbers right on the front so recipients know they are getting something that is truly unique.

Watercolors Into the Ocean

2009-11-02T08:45:00.004-07:00

While reading Paper + Cup, I saw this darling little post about a new magazine called Lonny. I was charmed to see a new style magazine (since the closing of Blueprint, sniff), one that has clean images and lots of pretty things, of course. One of the magazine's illustrators, Caitlin McGauley , paints simple little watercolor images of all things NY City! I checked out her blog immediately after, and what can I say? I'm in love! I used to adore painting with watercolors, until I moved back to color pencils, my fav. I believe we share a similar aesthetic - capturing little colorful details that catch our eye, little jewels, treasures, and pleasures of everyday life. It makes me want to do some art again!

Enjoy her portfolio here and read her blog!

Monday Fffffound

2009-11-02T08:00:00.004-07:00

Happy Monday everyone! I was just looking through some images on Ffffound to make my Monday morning a little bit more colorful! Back to the old work week after a nice week of pretty fully snow, hot chocolate, and r & r.

Today I'm doing the usual - teaching the students then off to J.Crew for a night of folding!

Thank you for all your wonderful Halloween cards! I can't wait to see some Halloween photos!

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T11:20:00.003-06:00

Wishing a frightful night for all!

A Halloween Poem from Judy! Enjoy!

IT’S HALLOWEEN … IT’S HALLOWEEN… THE WITCHES ARE UP HIGH

RIDING PAST THE GLOSSY MOON, AWAY UP IN THE SKY

THEY SNATCH THE LITTLE CHILDREN TO PUT IN A WITCHES BREW

TO SATISFY THEIR APPETITES WHILE RIDING BY THE MOON

IT’S HALLOWEEN … IT’S HALLOWEEN… THE GOBLINS ARE OUT TOO

THEY SCARE THE LITTLE CHILDREN, JUST BE SAYING “BOO”

FOR SURE IT’S HALLOWEEN WITH THE WITCHES MAKING BREW

AND THE GOBLINS SCARING LITTLE CHILDREN JUST BY SAYING … BOO!!!

Some of my cute students dressed up for the Halloween party!

Pumpkin Carving Friday

2009-10-31T11:12:00.001-06:00

Joseph and I made the most of our Halloween weekend by having an all-
pumpkin Friday night, including Pumpking carving, baked spiced pumpkin
seeds, pumpkin beer, and a scary movie (okay that isn't pumpkin
specific). Earlier that day I had the school Halloween party (pictures
soon to come) and dinner at the Pings' house. Our post-dinner feature
flick was the classic Young Frankestien, Grandpa's favortie!
Despite my intense fear of scary movies, I was able to watch The Sixth
Sense without being scared of the dark or having bad dreams! A big
step for yours truly ;)
Here's Joseph, beer and knife in hand, carving his pumpkin from Rock
Creek Farm.

Fun in the Snow

2009-10-31T10:57:00.001-06:00

What better way to spend a snow day than with good friends, a snowball
fight, food, and drinks?! We hit up our favortie spots in Denver -
Falling Rock, Osteria Marco, and Wazee - for some amazing beer,
dinner, apple cobler, and Scotch for the boys. Honestly, it felt more
like Christmas than Halloween!
Below, right to left: Vivi, Erin, Cory Cakes, Marc, me, and Joseph

Snow Outting

2009-10-29T10:44:00.002-06:00

Emergency! What good is a hot chocolate without (organic)
marshmallows? This calls for a stroll in the high snow to Whole Foods!
It is evident Joseph agrees with me!
*shout out to my Hunter Wellies, yet again! I heart you, shiny black
Wellies!

To see pictures of Denver's first snow storm of the winter season click on the Denver Post slideshow HERE!

This photographer has a really nice lens - and a great eye for fun shots! enjoy!

Snoooowwwww!!!

2009-10-29T08:41:00.002-06:00

Watch CBS News Videos Online

Another snow day! Even Joseph has the day off today! We are making the most of our lovely day off together. So far the house is clean, rabbits are fed, waffles have been made, Bonbonerie opera cream coffee brewed, and Harry Potter Marathon has begun! Slated later for this afternoon - a romp in the snow, a drink with friends...

Daily Candy Reads My Mind

2009-10-28T18:03:00.001-06:00

I feel that my short time in Ireland was enough to make me feel like a local. Somehow DailyCandy has managed to put my favs in their newsletter today! Especially Galway and Avoca!

God, in another life, let me live in Ireland!

Go Wilde
DailyCandy Goes to Ireland

Ireland has a long history of rhyming (Wilde, Yeats, Joyce, Beckett). But there’s no East Coast-West Coast rivalry, which means you can hip-hop across the country from Dublin to Galway.

Dublin or Nothin’
Start by getting cozy. Check intoDylan (Eastmoreland Place, Dublin 4; +353-1-660-3000), a colorful boutique hotel in a renovated Victorian building not far from St. Stephen’s Green. Then head off the beaten path to the serene Irish Museum of Modern Art (Royal Hospital, Military Road, Kilmainham, Dublin 8; +353-1-612-9900) for outsider, Irish, and international art.

Now you’re ready for some Guinness. Grogans Castle Lounge (15 William Street South, Dublin 2; +353-1-677-9320) is a divey watering hole where local artists and writers will keep you entertained with stories and so-so artwork on the walls. Order another (and another) at Shebeen Chic (4 South Great Georges Street, Dublin 2; +353-1-679-9667), a gastropub decorated in thrift shop finds and clotheslines.

Prevent a hangover with classic Irish fare like black pudding and smoked haddock at The Winding Stair Restaurant + Bookshop (40 Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1; +353-1-872-7320). How incredibly charming and cozy is this place? Well, there’s also a great selection of hard-to-find used books.

When you’re ready to shop, hit Design Centre(59 South William Street, Dublin 2; +353-1-679-5863) for Irish labels like Philip Treacy and Pauric Sweeney and Avoca (11-13 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2; +353-1-667-4215) for housewares, boho clothing, and affordable jewelry.

And get your green on strolling the River Liffey and the many parks around town.

Such Galway
It’s dramatically gray, right on the water, and authentically Oirish. And when you hang your hat at the glam Philip Treacy-designed The G(Dublin Road, Wellpark; +353-91-865-200), you’re front and center to everything.

Galway is an incredibly walkable town. Here’s your path: Stroll along the River Corrib, over to the Claddagh (yes, of those rings), and amble along the expansive Salthill beaches next to Galway Bay.

The annual Galway Oyster Festival makes for quite a show, but you can get your aquatic fill anytime at the down-to-earth and boisterous McDonagh’s Seafood House (22 Quay Street; +353-91-565-001), where no one notices how much you eat or drink. (It. will. be. lots.)

Pop into Les Jumelles (11 Upper Abbeygate Street; +353-91-564-540) for gems from Irish designers like Lainey Keogh and Mary Grant. Come weekend, hit the centuries-old farmers market (next to St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Mainguard and Lombard Streets) for local crafts, woolens, and the biggest carrots you’ve ever seen. Saturdays are best for food; Sundays are all about crafts.

You’ve fallen in love with the town, now hit the road. Rent a car and drive to Cliffs of Moher for breathtakingly high views and then wind around through the rocky terrain of the Burrenand breathe in the fresh air. So many sheep, cows, and horses. So many green hills and dramatic waters.

Aye, it’s enough to make you wax poetic.

While you’re down there:
+ DailyCandy Goes to Edinburgh

Snow Day!

2009-10-28T10:32:00.005-06:00

That's right! The first snow day of 2009-2010 school year! What have I done today? I'm still in my pajamas drinking Nutcracker Tea and watching Elf if that gives you any clue.

Ahh, classic English charm on a London Snow Day

Bree, does this look familiar?

Russian Snow Globe

The Living Camera

2009-10-28T09:59:00.004-06:00

Last year, Joseph and I watched a brilliantly inspiring BBC documentary, The Human Camera, about an autistic artist who captures entire cities with pen and paper - with only one glance.

Pictured above, New York times has captured Wiltshire sketching non other than The Big Apple. You can read the article HERE.

In this video, London artist Stephen Wiltshire manages to draw the entire city of Rome on a large canvas in just three days. Mind you, he had only seen Rome once, by means of a 45-minute helicopter ride.

Bon appetit Pumpkin Cupcakes Report

2009-10-26T15:59:00.001-06:00

Success! I really love this easy and delicious recipe! Try them for
yourself this week before Halloween and share them with your friends,
family, and coworkers! I think cupcakes make Monday easier to
swallow ;) and everyone a little happier!
(flags from Martha Stewart 2008 sale)

Rock Creek Farm Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-25T14:24:00.005-06:00

This morning we woke up bright and early for our day of Autumn activities!

Despite the snow, Joseph and I drove out to Rock Creek Farm, near Boulder, to cut our pumpkins. You can see we had a lot of fun, cutting pumpkins from the vine, nearly freezing to death. After our drive around Boulder we headed home for Joseph's homemade vegetarian chili and cornbread (we aren't vegetarians, we just love this kind of chili). Then I made pumpkin cupcakes (Bon Appetit recipe), after messing up the first batch, of course. They smell pretty amazing - now all they need is a generous sprinkling of Graeter's chocolate jimmies, yum!

Early in the morning - and snowing!!! Note the wool mittens...

Rock Creek Farm (organic farm)

Our pumpkin saw

Our pumpkin!

I cut it with this little thing, really?

This is currently my new wallpaper for my iPhone

We also have one of these greyish greenish beauties

Pumpkin Patch Preview!

2009-10-25T11:27:00.001-06:00

Sunday morning at the farm! More to come later!!!

It's Hard for me to Leave Those Feelings Behind

2009-10-24T17:44:00.002-06:00

Coming down from a long day... A quaint little ditty by Noah & the Whale, The First Days of Spring (all their videos are charming) - enjoy!

The First Days of Spring Official Trailer from charlie fink on Vimeo.

I hope those goggles look familiar, dad! They look just like yours!

I'm not sure what's on tap for tonight. There is a Halloween Ceili, a Halloween Party, and maybe, but doubtful, a birthday party for a friend. Unfortunately, I am unsure if I will attend any of these. I'm unmotivated and really tired! However, seeing as tomorrow is our ONLY day off together, Joseph and I are headed to an awesome pumpkin patch. We are having an Autumnal Sunday, full of Fall goodies like pumpkin pie, apple cider, carving, baking, and so much more!!! Looking forward to it Joseph!

Go Where Ireland Takes You

2009-10-23T08:31:00.002-06:00

Seriously Joseph, why aren't we living here?

Unfortunately this wasn't the Cork I saw (Blarney Castle), but I'm sure I'll be back, hopefully with mom, dad, and Joseph next time to have a picnic including West Cork handmade cheese and fudge. Yum! P.S. I love the blue little cable cars featured at the very end of the video! So cute!

Go To Public School.com

2009-10-22T16:51:00.003-06:00

Maybe I should post this in my room, for the children. I think the high school I formerly worked for could use a poster or two on their walls. I heard that the new art teacher is finding things more difficult than I did - which is not a positive outlook on the sustainability of the art program at that school.

Now that I'm finally settled in my new elementary school, I'm starting to collect ideas from young art teachers like this one, Mrs. Brown, in Massachusetts. She looks like the full-time art teacher, just from the look of her room and abundant supplies. My supplies look more like this:

I've already begun to adapt my room and introduce fun things to the students. I'm slowly collecting items, despite the lack of knowing what my budget is still - the entire school is in the dark due to some strange set-backs with adminstration. It isn't a big deal, but the teachers are a tad bit angry :) Whatever you do, don't make teachers angry! Just kidding Molly and Allie!

My mentor teacher, Ginny, admitted the first few years of her professional career as an art teacher were rough. She also worked part time jobs, long-term sub positions, and other odd ends jobs until she found the perfect one. She reassured me that I need to be patient, and good things will come with time. I'd like to feel more settled, but like Ginny said, be patient...

Tonight I have Irish dancing! We are less than a month away from the second largest competition for Irish Dancers - Oireachtas - better known in English as Nationals! Don't ask me why their website is horrible. They are being held right here in Denver (or else I would not be able to compete long-distance). We are competing in Adult Ceili 8 Hand Cross Reel and our Irish Dance Drama, both on Saturday. My dear friend Emily created this dance drama and she has worked on it every Friday night. I help out when I have time, and I'm a fill-in if something happens. So if anyone gets sick or feels like they can't go on stage I'll dance in their place or maybe dancing the main part... yikes!

This is from 25th World Championship - I like the first one, although I'm exactly sure what the plot was... cross-dressing in hard shoes is always a good laugh.

For the first time in over a month I've actually had enough energy to go to dance without wanting to fall asleep beforehand. J.Crew has cut back my hours just for this week so I can recover from my self-diagnosed laryngitis. That's right - Stacey, who follows in her father's footsteps - the daughter of Bill who has the gift of gab - lost her voice Saturday and Sunday!!! Everyday I've lost my voice towards the end of my last class. I've been slowly recovering ever since, but anyone you ask will say I've sounded like a 60 year-old smoker. So if I haven't talk to you lately, I'll be in touch soon, hopefully.

Art In-Service; Architecture

2009-10-20T19:39:00.000-06:00

This is my mentor, Ginny, and me at our district art in-service for
October. We listened to other art teachers share their lessons plans,
explored DAM's newest web resources, and won door prizes! Here we are
- the winners (of course) - with our new architecture books! It was a
wonderful way to spend our gloomy Tuesday night.
When I finally got home from work, Joseph was waiting with homemade
soup, sweet potato fries, a sandwich, and The Royal Tenenbaums. Thanks
Joe!
Hope you are enjoying your Fall Tuesday night too :)

Finished Headless Horseman

2009-10-20T18:38:00.000-06:00

Today the first graders put the finishing touches on their Sleepy
Hollow landscapes. They had so much fun retelling me the story of
scared Ichabod :)
I love getting into the spirit of Halloween and letting imaginations
run wild. When i was home in September Kathy recited a little poem
written by Jude when she was in pirmary school. I can't remember how
the poem read, but it had something to do with witches eating plump
little children!!! Is there any chance we can get the official Judy
(Meyer) Scott Halloween poem for Neuf Francs?

Sleepy Hollow!

2009-10-19T19:50:00.000-06:00

Today the kids worked on their Headless Horseman drawing. They are
really enjoying the spookiness of the story and learning how to draw a
basic horse shape. I'm having fun getting into the holiday spirit! We
also listened to spooky music and the students practically jumped out
of their seats! Kids are great :) now if I could only have Ellie in my
class...

You Don't Know Jackman

2009-10-16T15:03:00.004-06:00

I usually don't do this type of thing, but I kind of can't help myself. I L O V E Hugh Jackman!

"Hugh is tough and romantic at the same time," says costar Kidman. "Australian men are a different breed. They're rugged and they sweat."

A romantic who sings ballads at home and makes pancakes for his children... A hard body with a soft center... People Magazine. Not to mention he has a really gorgeous Australian accent! I mean, who wouldn't love him? (Kari - cherish Ian's accent!!!)

Outtakes from People Magazine's interview with Hugh Jackman (on being the Sexiest Man Alive)

FIRST GIRLFRIEND
"Martine Craswell, in kindergarten. My dad said, 'Oh, I always knew you were romantic because you were running in a race and Martine fell over and you stopped and went back and picked her up.' Chivalry was there."

FIRST KISS
"With Sarah Dowsett when I was 9. I was going from a coed school to a boys' school and I thought, 'If I don't kiss a girl before I go to this school, I won't get to kiss a girl.' And my friend goes, 'Sarah Dowsett kisses. I kissed her once.' So I said to Sarah, 'I want you to know that I love you.' And she said, 'I love you too.' And I said, 'Do you want to go down to the bush and kiss?' She said yes. It was just [he purses his lips]. I remember thinking, 'What is this all about?' Then, when I had my first tongue kiss, I thought, 'What the hell is this?' "

Your marriage is a success story.
In my early 20s, I didn't have a regular girlfriend. I was single and really happy about it. And then when I was 26, I met Deb on [the Australian TV show] Correlli. She was my leading lady. It was just undeniable. I started planning to propose to her at about three months. We are happy. Deb and my kids have been the best things that have ever happened to me, without a doubt.

Happy Anniversary Joseph!

2009-10-16T14:07:00.004-06:00

I'm so lucky I've been able to call myself Mrs. Pings since 2004! I think I'll keep you around - you are pretty good in the kitchen and you watch Gossip Girl with me ;)
If that isn't love...
XOXO, Stace

Fantastic Mr. Fox

2009-10-14T07:55:00.003-06:00

Instead of doing productive things this morning I've been looking at foxes. Let me explain. Whilst checking my mail this morning with my trusty cup of tea, I clicked on my Google Alerts for Jason Schwartzman. This led me to a great BBC article and interview video, which in turn directed ALL my attention to the official website of Fantastic Mr. Fox, which I've been waiting to see for about, oh I suppose more years than I can count! It has taken a while because the movie was created using stop motion - so I understand.

{Watch this great behind the scenes film! It is charming, really charming! via gordon & the whale}

But, back to my point, this movie looks like something out of my imagination or even my wildest dreams. I'm so happy to see that there are other individuals in the world who share my aesthetic! Happy days! I've been playing around, reading, downloading, playing games, and watching the trailer (again and again) on the official website HERE. I simply cannot wait to see it (and own it, of course)!

P.S. The soundtrack is classic and full of brilliant glockenspiel music!

Pictures from this Week

2009-10-13T09:51:00.003-06:00

I do believe we should bring this red coat back in style! Who cares if it is a costume for an Irish dance drama? It is très chic! Can you believe soldiers used to wear coats like this? Wow... I think they might have looked more dashing than intimidating... (especially with a Brittish accent)!

Here we are - Marc, Cory, (Erin taking the picture), and I at the Glass House in Denver. I think I had one too many rum and cokes - I don't even like them, but it seemed right at the time. A good night out with the friends (regretful the next day, might I add).

This Feis picture is from a while ago (Estes Park), but I just got it from a friend on Facebook yesterday. I had such a good time dancing, so it is a nice little memory to hold on to. And to admit something to you, I never cared about getting first place in anything, but after working so hard this summer to improve my dancing, it felt brilliant holding that big crystal bowl!

Ah, Amore

2009-10-13T08:53:00.005-06:00

This is a bright way to start my morning! Thinking of young love, love for traveling, love for French Navy boys ;) Just kidding... But as we know, not all loves last... sad...

Things on my to-do list today:

Brush Rabbits
Dishes
Pack Lunch
Library
Teach
J.Crew

Since I'm starting my morning off on a good, but tired note, I'm looking forward to my day at class. I'm teaching the kids all about Dublin, Ireland, Gaelic, hurling, Irish dancing, and Ancient Irish writing. The kids are designing their own dresses and hurling uniforms, dancing, and writing their names in Ogham.

My other little ones (first graders) are learning about Sleepy Hollow, reading the story, watching parts of the Disney movie, and then we are learning how to draw the Headless Horsemen of the Hollow by using simple shapes and lines. They are creating silhouette art using orange and black paper, then making blown trees - paint is dripped on paper then blown by a straw to make the branches. I think it is a fun way to celebrate October!

Family Foto

2009-10-12T16:46:00.003-06:00

{thanks Em for the photo!}

I love this family photo of the girls from last Autumn. This night was a blast - we had beer cheese and played games in Maggie's beautiful home. It was such a lovely night and one that is worth remembering. Looking at this picture I do feel a little sad, but happy at the same time. I think we all feel the same about missing Apple, but what great memories we have with her!