off switch

focused and purposeful.

2012-02-06T17:33:00.000-06:00

i apologize for the absence lately. i've had a lot of things on my mind, and am really starting to rethink what i want this space to be and represent. this does not mean i'm going to stop blogging. if anything it means i'll be blogging frequently as opposed to the sporadic-ness that has come to define the 'off switch' blog. i want to have more of a focus and purpose to each post, whether they be short or long. and each time i blog here i want it to be something i'm proud of. with that being said...do me a favor and be patient as i prep posts this week? thanks a bunch. :)

how to: a birthday banner.

2012-01-24T20:40:00.000-06:00

i recently made the banner shown above for a volunteer project, and since it turned out so well i've decided to share the experience here. what's so cool about this 'happy birthday' banner is that it's made of recycled books! i saved these old books from being thrown away simply by asking to look through my public library's discarded book collection. beyond choosing books that are predominately one color, there really is not rhyme or reason to it!

you will need:

* the front and back cover of a hard-bound book

* scissors or blade for cutting

* painters tape

* foam daubers

* letter stencils

* acrylic paints (white and color of choice)

* drill and 1/4 inch drill bit

* wire

* wire cutters

part one: to begin, use your scissors or blade to cut the pages of your hard-bound books away from the cover and spine | the older the book, the easier this will be | take your first stencil and tape it to a book cover | use your foam dauber to apply paint to the entire letter, keeping in mind that multiple coats might be necessary | i recommend using white first and then at least two coats of the chosen color (in my caselime green)

part two: once all your letters have been painted and had time to dry, drill two holes about a half inch inward on the top left and top right corners | i chose to create two separate banners for 'happy' and 'birthday.' with that being said, lay out the letters for your banner on a flat surface | measure out your wire allowing excess on either end in case you need it for hanging your finished piece | cut the wire and weave through the holes you drilled, making sure the length of the wire is hidden on the backside of each book cover | the book should hold their position well because of the wire, but if not you can take duck tape to the wire on the backside of each book cover | hang your signs and admire you're handywork!

how inspiring: take 3.

2012-01-17T05:46:00.000-06:00

some of my favorite images floating around the internet lately.
to view these plus more, click here.
sources (as best i know): 1: 2: 3: 4: 5: 6: 7: 8: 9: 10: 11:

ps: i'm making that dish in number 2 as soon as we buy more eggs!

into the city.

2012-01-16T06:05:00.000-06:00

boy, last week i felt like such a social butterfly! well, at least for my standards. i took these shots last tuesday on the latest trip into chicago to catch up with former teachers and such. the polaroids were taken with one of my spectra cameras using film from the impossible project. it seems as if i go through spurts of taking good polaroid shots and bad ones...these three are bringing me back to the "good" territory. thank goodness! hope you all had a great weekend!

thank you, mr. mailman.

2012-01-11T20:34:00.000-06:00

one of the several items i received via the usps this week was volume two of kinfolk magazine! i have been following the rise of this gorgeous publication since volume one knocked my flip flops off this past summer. while i don't pride myself on the unavoidable tendency to compare my product with another, i can't help but feel like a younger sister looking up to my big brother, kinfolk. with a solid grasp on their style and design, kinfolk is not only inspirational to me as a reader but, more importantly, as a designer setting out to create a solid aesthetic for her own magazine. have you ordered your copy yet?

sending off volume one.

2012-01-11T11:12:00.000-06:00

the first batch of orders for volume one of off switch magazine are being sent off today! i was so excited sitting on our kitchen floor last night, stuffing the mags with my brand new moo business cards and then putting them into the mailers i had purchased several years ago. i knew they would come in handy some day! i also purchased "thank you" stickers from moo and used them to secure the back seal of the mailers. of course the packaging and branding for off switch mag will continue to become more streamlined and professional as we grow over the months and years. but at the same time i can't help but be think in a couple years i'll look back at these photos and say, "i did all right." if you haven't ordered your copy of the magazine, click here to purchase - they're only fifteen dollars and you would be supporting not just my dreams, but those of everyone in the magazine. xo.

giveaway winner!

2012-01-03T19:17:00.000-06:00

send me an email (offswitchdesigns at gmail dot com) to claim your prize!

looking back at 2011.

2012-01-01T15:05:00.002-06:00

i suppose it's safe to say 2011 was a pretty fantastic year for me. of course i'm hoping 2012 will top it, but before i start looking forward let's take a look back at what made 2011 so special...

january: this month i was literally swamped with school, working to finish my internship and complete other big projects. i spent many hours at school and had very little time to blog or find the inspiration to be creative. thus this is the only post i have to show for the month. january also brought about many changes to the way i currently eat, and while i haven't shared too much on this blog, those changes have greatly impacted my life.

february: welcomed a blizzard to our area and my subsequent return to blogging. i fell in love with this band thanks to the suggestion of a friend. i also experimented with eating new vegetables and found out i am in love with sweet potatoes. love, i say!

march: one morning i woke up at 6:30am to take photos of the sunrise, which turned out to be a favorite blog post of mine. i also finished reading the "hunger games" trilogy after the recommendation of a dear friend. so good! march also welcomed a new blog design and a fantastic trip into chicago with a friend. such a fun day!

april: my birthday month presented warmer weather and an unexpected visit with the president of my university. i shared a love for writing letters, my month-long experience watching this show, and of course my 22nd birthday.

may: after many months i finally started to print out photos from my study abroad trip to florence, italy. we celebrated mother's day, friendship, and a new address! i happily thrifted this month and all year, as shown here. not to mention i enjoyed a fun memorial day afternoon with my mom.

june: began with me taking photos of my brother's new house, my graduation ceremony from university, and the first of many personal style posts. my mom became a big part of this blog when she took on the role of photographer for my outfit shots. thanks ma!

july: what a busy month! i finished my final class at university, which was a relief but also left me in a funk. on that last day i officially decided that i was going to start a magazine, which evolved over the next several months. i also did my best to garden and fell in with growing sunflowers. seriously, it was a passionate affair. we also welcomed woody to the family, bought fresh eggs, and saw a musical! i also explored my favorite thrift store and posted two of my favorite outfit posts to date, here and here.

august: this month there was a garage sale, a trip to both the farmers market and the city, a game of yahtzee, and experimented with something new. i also finished watching the wonderful tv series friday night lights...and consequently have a thing for tim riggins. i thrifted and fixed some pieces for an outfit post, shared my exciting plans for the future, and took some of my favorite outfit photos yet. and let's not forget my review of a favorite book!

september: we took a weekend trip to wisconsin which produced many photos, seen here. while in wisconsin we made a stop to the largest farmer's market in madison...so cool! we met at the fair again this year, enjoyed renegade 2011 with angela, and had a super day with friends. this month stress from starting the magazine was getting to me and i decided to go my own way.

october: brought fall weather and pumpkin picking. i had the chance to take engagement photos for my brother and his fiance in chicago. i did my best to take advantage of the season and enjoyed a fall walk with my mom, had a good week, and a fun fall picnic! every year we visit lake geneva, wisconsin and this year i drove! i completed a jigsaw puzzle, shared my pixie story, and found amusement in vintage clothing tag labels.

november: i was in work-mode putting together the magazine layout this month, but had the time to discover new artists and pretty images. i reminisced about my trip to italy, put together a fall outfit, and hit two hundred blog followers! not to mention we started off the christmas season with a greenhouse visit to see poinsettias.

december: the last month of the year was such a great time for me. after months of effort i launched the first volume of off switch magazine! i also realized that in another life i would have been a dancer, took the time to enjoy the holiday season, brought out our record player, and fell in love with adele's "21" album. we enjoyed amazing weather throughout december and went to an annual christmas party. plus the proof copy of the magazine arrived. and it was beautiful.

thank you to everyone who follows this blog, and to anyone who read this entire post. ha! i am so happy to have you all here and grateful for a wonderful year of growth. here's to 2012!

ps: last year's review post.

proof copy.

2011-12-28T14:36:00.000-06:00

i was so happy to finally receive the proof copy i ordered of volume one of off switch magazine today! flipping through it and seeing that there are only minor revisions to be made has me super excited to place the real order before the weekend! i chose to print with magcloud.com, and i must say i was extremely impressed with the quality. if you were thinking of purchasing a print copy for yourself or a friend, simply click here. i'll keep you all posted when the official copies arrive in the next week and a half or so.

in other news, you can now follow me on instagram at: off_switch

the day after the day after christmas.

2011-12-27T09:18:00.001-06:00

yesterday i had a soar throat and last night it turned into a full-blown cold. needless to say, this might be a long week. but you know what? i bet it'll be good no matter what. it feels easier to see the good in life lately, and i'm excited to keep improving myself and turning things from a solid good to great. do me a favor and go enter the giveaway i'm offering worth over fifty dollars...there's bound to be something there you'll like! take care everyone, and have a great tuesday. xo.

merry christmas!

2011-12-25T05:26:00.000-06:00

wishing you all a very merry christmas today!

may you enjoy time with family and friends,

and remember that gifts are only a small part

of the magic of the holidays.

xo.

it's a wonderful life.

2011-12-24T06:36:00.000-06:00

on monday my mom and i went to see a showing of the christmas classic "it's a wonderful life" starring jimmy stewart. after watching the film year after year on our tv at home, i was so excited to see it on a giant screen just like when it was shown back in 1946. the best part? tickets only cost 80 cents each! what a fun way to get into the holiday spirit. merry christmas eve, everyone! xo.

christmas cookie time.

2011-12-21T06:20:00.000-06:00

on sunday my ma and i had fun baking holiday chunks, a traditional christmas cookie at our house. they're filled with all sorts of healthiness. you know the kind: sweetened condensed milk, loads of chocolate, and crushed graham crackers healthy. ok, ok, so they're totally unhealthy. but they are fun to roll in powdered sugar....

and that's calorie free.

parties and errands.

2011-12-20T06:20:00.000-06:00

this was what i wore to my family's annual christmas party on saturday. i also wore the same outfit on sunday to run errands with my ma, which means that it's way too comfortable for it's own good. ha! while i didn't take any photos at this year's party like i did last year, i did have a great time talking to family, drinking yummy wine, and playing bingo until after ten at night. and now this week is all about preparing for christmas, which means wrapping presents, cleaning, and all that good stuff...you know the drill. happy tuesday everyone!

ps: how i wore this dress in the summer.

how inspiring: take 2.

2011-12-19T06:19:00.000-06:00

some of my favorite images floating around the internet lately.
to view these plus more, click here.
sources (as best i know): 1: 2: 3: 4: 5: 6: 7: 8: 9: 10: 11:

ps: i love the words in number nine...

launch week: giveaway!

2011-12-16T21:46:00.000-06:00

as a way to thank all of you for reading the past two and a half years, as well as celebrate the launch of off switch magazine, i wanted to end "launch week" with a big ol' giveaway! these are all products that i have purchased or am selling myself, so this $50+ giveaway truly is my gift to you. one winner will be chosen thursday, december 29th and announced the following day. that means you have nearly two weeks to enter and spread the word!

you could win all of this:
1) a set of eight flat notes from made by michelle brusegaard (one of my fav etsy shops!)
2) a print copy of the first volume of off switch magazine (check it out!)
3) the newest lp from the band fictionist (the song swept away is so good)
4) the brand new hue and hum christmas album (get a free download)
5) an 8x10 polaroid photography print of your choice from the off switch designs shop (choose your fav here!)

to enter simply leave a comment telling me what your favorite christmas tradition is! (mine is listening to this album). one entry per person, please. anyone can enter, even international readers. be sure to leave a blog or email address in your comment so i can get in touch with you if you win.

christmas lights on the avenue.

2011-12-16T07:38:00.000-06:00

a bunch of my family got together this past weekend to celebrate an annual christmas lights display in our town. it was fun to see everyone and have hot cider and goodies at my aunt's house afterward. so tell me, how have you been getting into the holiday spirit these past few weeks?

launch week: a peek inside volume one.

2011-12-14T11:43:00.000-06:00

launch week: volume one!

2011-12-14T10:23:00.000-06:00

after months of effort, there is finally a little something-something to show for it all. i hope you enjoy reading volume one of off switch magazine online, and if you feel so inclined you can pre-order a print copy right here. thanks to everyone who has been supportive of this project, it means so much to me. and i couldn't have done any of this without the talented contributors. all of their names and websites are in the mag, so be sure to show them some love!

launch week: lady hue.

2011-12-13T07:06:00.000-06:00

when deciding who to include in the first issue of off switch magazine, i immediately thought of the multi-talented caitlin and robbie connolly. i began reading their blog, hue and hum, several months ago after seeing my pal lauren do an outfit post featuring one of caitlin's embroidered t-shirts. smitten with the designs, i sent off two t's for caitlin to embroider and am thrilled to showcase one of them in this post!

there are a handful of creative and entrepreneurial bloggers who i look to for constant motivation and inspiration when it comes to pursuing my own dreams. caitlin and robbie are two of those people. i am extremely proud of the q&a interview i did with them and can't wait for you all to read it tomorrow when the issue launches. hue and hum, i wish you both all the success and happiness in the world. xo.

ps: i highly recommend giving the hue and hum blog a peek, as well as checking out caitlin and robbie's latest collaboration: hue and hum christmas. i ordered my copy a couple weeks ago and love it!

launch week: the story behind the name.

2011-12-12T07:08:00.000-06:00

to celebrate the launch of volume one of off switch magazine this wednesday, i thought it was important that i share with everyone what the term off switch actually means. when i was young i was a chatterbox, always talking and singing and making noise. while i don't remember much about my younger years because, well i was young, i do remember that my parents would say i wasn't born with an off switch. they just couldn't find one to turn me off...or even down a notch.

fast forward to a few years ago when i was trying to decide what to name both my online shop and this blog. i felt at a loss racking my brain for "cute and clever" names. trust me, the list of ideas was pretty bad. but the one that stuck out like a sore thumb was off switch. and if i had to guess why, i would say because it had a story behind it. albeit a short story that takes about two seconds to tell, but a story non the less. i am a big believer that things happen in my life at the exact time they are meant to. i try to appreciate the timing of life's events and be aware of things that seem to "click" into place. naming my blog and shop off switch was one of those things, and as soon as i realized it i created the accounts and starting typing away.

when i was in a personal branding course at university a year or so ago i had to create a slogan to describe both myself and my brand in a nutshell. again i came up with quotes and phrases that i liked, but they just didn't jive well. after some negative feedback from the instructor i decided on, "living life without an off switch." and i heard that "click" again...

and now i've given this little magazine the same name. confusing? maybe to some. but to me it just means i feel that strongly about the name and believe in what it has come to represent to me (and hopefully to you as well). what was once a line to describe my constant chatter as a kid, has since evolved into a phrase that means living life positively and fully. off switch simply means to live life turned on.

the best.

2011-12-06T13:00:00.001-06:00

right now i'm listening to the roger whittaker christmas album and i can't help but share it with you all. listening to it throughout december is honestly one of my favorite christmas traditions. so if you love folksy singers of today, do me a favor and give this great album of yesterday a listen this holiday season. at our house we have both a cassette and cd version, and this summer i was thrilled to find a vinyl copy for fifty cents. joy!

listen to my favorite song!

tis the season.

2011-12-05T21:46:00.001-06:00

my idea of a great evening during the holiday season is staying in with the christmas tree lights glowing, my favorite christmas album on the record player, homemade tea in my favorite mug, and reading a classic book that i love. oh, and receiving an order from the talented caitlin of hue and hum doesn't hurt. nope, not at all. what's your idea of a great holiday evening? xo.

in another life...

2011-12-02T17:00:00.001-06:00

melanie moore - winner of so you think you can dance? - season 8 (source)

over the past few years i've had a strong urge to learn to dance. to have that ability to move my body with grace and fluidity...which is a talent i do not possess currently. so when i saw melanie (this season's winner of so you think you can dance?) perform on the ellen show this week...goodness i kinda wanted to be her in that moment. i mean we both have pixies, right? anyway, i'm not saying i necessarily believe in reincarnation or anything like that, but if you could have any gift or talent or pursue any profession you dreamed...what would it be? seriously, i'd LOVE to know. :)

poinsetta time.

2011-11-29T11:01:00.001-06:00

this past sunday my ma, dad, and i went to a local greenhouse to see row after row of poinsettas. you know, get in the holiday spirit and all that jazz. it was fun to walk around and snap photos of all the pretty red, pink, and white. greenhouses are like a finely tuned machine and it's neat to walk through all the rooms and observe the setup. speaking of the "holiday spirit," i went a little bonkers doing christmas shopping last night...what can i say, i had to take advantage of cyber monday! have a great day everyone!

grateful.

2011-11-24T12:17:00.001-06:00

i hope you all have a very happy thanksgiving with family and friends! i will be going to my aunt and uncle's house (which also happens to be the house my dad grew up in) as we've done every year for as long as i can remember. my uncle has me trained at carving the turkeys, and it's one of my favorite traditions now. this has been a wonderful year so far and i'm grateful for all of it. :)

two hundred.

2011-11-22T19:57:00.001-06:00

hi everyone! life has been a bit hectic lately working to get the magazine up and running by mid december, but things are looking very good and i'm happy to announce a few updates! first, the off switch magazine website (though sparse in appearance) now has a link to an online mailing list. secondly, over this past weekend i went to the post office and got this little mag a p.o. box! you have no idea how exciting that was for me. really. and last but not least, if you were planning on purchasing the first volume in print, you can pre-order your copy right here!

now on to that image above! today, after two and a half years blogging, off switch hit two hundred followers! it's a fun milestone and i think because i've been at this for as long as i have it means that much more to me. i feel like i've worked for each and every one of those "follows," and i wouldn't have it any other way. to show you all how appreciative i am for your readership, comments, and support with off switch magazine i will be hosting a giveaway spectacular in the next few weeks. stay tuned! xo.

the post with no name.

2011-11-15T19:56:00.001-06:00

happy wednesday, everyone! i feel like there are a million things i could type up for this post, and yet i have no clue what to write. thus, this is hereby deemed the post with no name. my ma and i took these photos by a local small theater. and when i say small, i do mean small. it's been a couple years since i saw a show there, but i'm going to guess it seats about thirty people? the place has such a cool vibe though, and i would love to go back sometime!

see that? i had no intention of writing about where these photos were taken, and yet i did. not only does this post have no name, i have no control over my fingers...oh bother.

ps: did anyone see parenthood last night? goodness i love that show!

pps: see? no. control.

1-2-3

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

as a part of the recurring series, something new, i bring you my first attempt at an in-home photography studio! a couple weeks ago i purchased this backdrop from a local textile company for very little money. now all i have to do is figure out a way to get rid of the wrinkles! that, and find a tube to roll it up on. though this photo was taken using my brother's external flash, i am currently in the market for a studio light...which is such a daunting statement!

ps: any expertise or suggestions in the area of studio lights/photography studios? please share!

pps: i suppose this could constitute a tiny personal style post...in case you were wondering ;)

crunchy granola suite.

2011-11-14T06:08:00.000-06:00

happy monday, everyone! we went to the health food store this past week and picked up a few bags of this delicious nut-based granola. i haven't eaten grains since this past spring and come january will have been gluten free for a year. all of that to say, i'm a bit of a nut freak. i'm sure i eat way to many of them, but i just can't help myself. tell me, what foods do you love?

magazine update.

2011-11-09T15:03:00.000-06:00

hi everyone! i first wanted to pop in and say thank you to the new followers who've subscribed in the past week. welcome! and, of course, thank you to everyone who has been reading this blog from the beginning. you all are wonderful!

now onto business! since the last magazine update a lot has happened that i want to fill you all in on. after literally months of trying to choose on a name, i was talking with my ma and we finally decided that it should be named off switch. i plan on writing a little post about the name and meaning very soon, so stick around for that one! with that issue out of the way, i got busy purchasing a domain and setting up a simple little website. off switch mag also has a facebook page, with a twitter account coming soon! of course, this whole project will continue to evolve and grow as time goes on, but i'm pretty proud of what's been accomplished so far. :)

if you are interested, here are the links again: facebook & website.

that time i went to italy.

2011-11-04T22:14:00.000-05:00

i was revisiting some of my old posts tonight from my time studying abroad in florence, italy. i stayed in the heart of the city with a bedroom view overlooking the arno river for seven weeks. and sure, some people have stayed there longer and others have taken more photos or made more memories...but that doesn't take away the fact that those seven weeks in florence were mine - to remember, appreciate, and ponder over. i love remembering italy, even though it can make me a little sad sometimes. i figured many of you haven't been reading very long and may not know what that little button to the right that reads "florence, italy" actually means...well, consider this post a welcome to the neighborhood. about a year and a half ago i was experiencing everything you see above. and i welcome you to click that button and read more about this girl's experiences in an ancient city... hope you have a great weekend! xo.

(in case you're wondering, these were some of my favorites: 1: 2: 3:)

how inspiring!

2011-11-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

some of my favorite images floating around the internet lately.
to view these plus more, click here.
sources (as best i know): 1: 2: 3: 4: 5: 6: 7: 8: 9:

ps: isn't julie andrews just gorgeous in that photo? love it!

artist profile: minh dam.

2011-11-01T20:32:00.001-05:00

i happened upon the watercolorist minh dam tonight while on pinterest and was blown away by his work. these are three of my favorites, however i'm partial to the first one because it brings me right back to studying abroad in florence, italy...right back.

happy halloween!

2011-10-31T08:22:00.002-05:00

whether you're dressing up and going out

or staying in to hand out candy and watch the tv show two broke girls (cough, cough) –

i hope you have a wonderful halloween!

ps: i did a little interview for smashion today. check it out!
pps: photo taken with my holga on 120 film.

holga-holic

2011-10-28T17:03:00.001-05:00

"hello. my name is katie, and i'm a holga-holic"

what is a holga-holic, you ask?

oh, just someone who can't stop sharing the photos they snapped

with their beloved holga plastic camera.

(i really need to start using more film. two rolls in one year is just not enough.)

have a happy weekend, everyone!

it was a production.

2011-10-28T15:43:00.000-05:00

about a month ago a group of us went to a local production of my fair lady. this was the first of four broadway shows coming to our theater over the next year or so. it was incredibly well done: the sets, choreography, singing, acting...all of it was wonderful. such a fun time! coming up in november we'll be seeing the second show, joseph and the amazing technicolor dream coat, which i'm really looking forward to. which musicals have you seen? any favorites?

another full day.

2011-10-27T23:47:00.001-05:00

here's a little peek at my outfit from wednesday.

(i think i was inspired by this photo)

today was a busy one with emails, cooking, and work taking up the majority of it.

all good things. in moderation.

when taxi cabs collide.

2011-10-26T16:35:00.000-05:00

this wednesday has been a day of exercising, running errands, washing clothes, and cooking beets. yes, beets. my mama offered to join in on the errands, which made the day much more fun. and now i'm off to work for the evening! don't you love days that keep you busy and productive? me too. as long as they're followed by some quality time in front of the tv, that is.

ps: the above photo is from a roll of 120 film i got developed today. gotta love the holga. and those double exposures. ;)

you make me laugh.

2011-10-25T06:18:00.000-05:00

if you're a vintage clothing shopper like me, you're already well aware that so many of the clothing brands of yesterday had ridiculously oddball names. take these four examples from my own personal collection: LUCKY ME, RHODA LEE, MISS K, and LADY MANHATTAN. i mean, come on...don't they just make you laugh? have a great day guys! xo.

ps: if you have a vintage piece of clothing with a great brand name on the tag, please share in the comments! :)

smile worthy monday.

2011-10-24T19:17:00.000-05:00

just a few of the things i'm enjoying today:

all of the above, plus...

exercising twice

receiving the first of many magazine articles (it's good!)

mailing off a package long overdue

the fall issue of the violet

homemade chicken soup (thanks mama!)

i hope you've had a wonderful monday everyone! xo.

a pixie story.

2011-10-21T19:56:00.000-05:00

ever since cutting my hair a year ago, i've gotten many comments about my pixie style. for instance, some of you have asked how often i get my hair cut and if i have any tricks to maintaing a pixie style. while i'm not a hair expert by any means, i do have a year's worth of experience with this style and thought i'd share a few thoughts:

my hair type: first off, i have a ton of hair! seriously, it's a guaranteed comment from any hair stylist i've seen. while i have a lot of hair, it is in fact quite thin. also, i have a colic or two, which is why i tend to style my top hair to my right side (left in the photos).

my hair washing: ok, i know the whole spiel about not needing to wash your hair every day, and how that it is in fact bad for your hair. but, i do. i could manage every other, but at this point i still wash my hair every time i shower. typically i use whatever shampoo my mom buys, but when i have it on hand i love to use lush shampoos (talk to an employee at lush to get the best shampoo for you).

my hair styling: a lot of people are surprised when i say i have to put product in my hair. why, i have no idea. it looks pretty awful if i don't...trust me. after showering, i use a blowdryer to dry my hair. i make sure to angle the dryer to blow from the center of my head out, so as to encourage the hair to fall flat. i then use sexy hair's short hair products. what you see in these photos is the "hard up" gel. to be honest, once this tube is gone i'm going to try one of their other products, but for now this does hold my style very well. i use quarter sized glop of the product, typically.

my haircuts: i schedule my hair appointments for every four weeks. the above photos illustrate what my hair looks like just after and just before a haircut. when i first got my pixie, i had no idea how to style it or how i wanted it to look. as time went on i figured out which areas i wanted trimmed up more. for me, i like the sides to be taken in quite a bit. i also make sure that my top/bang area is thinned out and trimmed, among other areas. what's nice is that i've known my hair stylist since i was a kid and we have a fun relationship, so it's easy for me to say "this grew out to much last time, could you trim it more?"

my pixie ladies: ginnifer goodwin has always been my "pixie lady" (yes, i just made that term up). after i reading about how she has in all her contracts a statement that she will not grow her hair out and instead will wear wigs if the roll calls for long hair...let's just say i was smitten. i also love michelle williams, carey mulligan, and emma watson. each of those women were modern day inspiration for my haircut. :)

i hoped this post helped inspire any of you thinking about getting a pixie cut! if you have any questions, just ask in the comments. have a great weekend! xo.

ghosts on a stick: a holiday tutorial

2011-10-20T05:20:00.000-05:00

happy thursday everyone! today i have a super easy tutorial for you all: spooky ghosts on a stick! that's right, who needs to hang ghosts from trees when they can wave them around on a wooden skewer?! haha. ok, full discloser: a very good friend of my mom's (who i've known my entire life) arranges piano songs to play once a month at an alzheimer's care facility. starting last month she asked me to make corresponding "gifts" for each person in attendance, which totals about twenty or so. these little projects have turned into fun crafts for my mom and i, which we hadn't done in a while! last month we made stickers for "back to school" and this month we made "spooky ghosts on a stick" for halloween:

SPOOKY GHOSTS:

12 inch wooden skewers

leftover yarn

tacky glue

sharpies

white cotton material

2 inch styrofoam balls

the idea was for each of the people at the care facility to hold and wave around their ghost while the halloween themed music is being played...but you could do just about anything with these little guys! for instance, put a styrofoam block in a terra-cotta pot and stick the ghosts in it...that could be a center piece for your halloween party and then guests could take home a ghost as a favor. if you make your own spooky ghosts on a stick, let me know! xo.

seeing things.

2011-10-19T05:30:00.000-05:00

hello there! it's been a bit since i've posted...i think last week was somewhat uninspiring for me and consequently i had little to share. but don't worry! things are back on track and moving along quite well. :) i hope all of you have had a good week so far! i was excited to see that my friend, lauren, included my puzzle post in her "blogger roundup" - so fun! yesterday i wore this dress and sweater combo while out and about with my mama. we were busy ladies! it was a very nice day though, one that ended with watching one of my favorite shows, parenthood.

ps: the title of this post is in reference to the huge cat "thing" we saw while taking photos of my outfit. was it really a cat? or something else? we'll never know. and as long as we don't see it again, i really don't care. ;)

portfolio update.

2011-10-15T15:40:00.000-05:00

hi guys :) i just wanted to pop in and share with you the link to my new portfolio via cargocollective.com. the site was first recommended to me by the wonderful camilla, and later on i saw that talented women such as bri and emma were using it. so of course, i signed up! click the link at the top of the page that currently reads "website" to visit the portfolio and see more of my work.

thanks in advance for checking it out. and for reading "off switch" - i appreciate all the love i've been getting in the comments recently. makes this little space feel less lonely. happy weekend! xo.

lake geneva 2011: polaroids.

2011-10-13T06:30:00.000-05:00

just a few polaroids from our visit to lake geneva

this past sunday...as promised!

i hope you all have a great thursday. xo.

from beginning to end.

2011-10-12T06:30:00.000-05:00

i've been doing jigsaw puzzles for years. thousand piece ones. we have a coffee table in the back room that's perfect for working on puzzles, and i remember being in grade school spending hours completing dozens upon dozens of them. after each finished puzzle we would take a photo and put it in a small album. it's crazy to think how many i did (with the help of some family)! i should show that album to you one of these days...pretty fun. anyway, it had been a couple years since i'd done a puzzle. i thought i'd give it a go last night but mix things up by taking photos every so often. this one was 750 pieces and took me an evening to complete, with some help from my mama. enjoy watching the progress! xo.

visiting lake geneva.

2011-10-11T06:30:00.000-05:00

each fall for the past several years my parents and i (this time with my grandma, too!) drive up north to lake geneva, wisconsin. it's always fun to get breakfast at scuttlebutt's, walk down by the lake, and around the downtown for a bit. the weather was perfect for our visit to lake geneva this past sunday. and i drove on the way there - go me! you may think this is not a big deal, but if you knew how little experience i have driving long distances, you'd be proud of me too. ;) suffice it to say, it was a good day. i'll be sharing a few of the polaroids i took in an upcoming post, so stay tuned for those! xo.

a picnic.

2011-10-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

last thursday my ma, grandma, and i went to the local park for an afternoon picnic. i had been wanting to go before the weather turned cold and this past week was the perfect opportunity. my mom packed the yummies for us: party plates, water bottles, fresh cut fruit, and all kinds of raw nuts and dried cherries...some of my favorite foods! after eating we took a walk around the park which is a half mile long. there wasn't a cloud in the sky, and it was just so pretty to look up and see endless blue. so, have you been on a picnic lately? what sort of food did you eat? happy monday, everyone!

it was a good week.

2011-10-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

this past week i went to an art mixer downtown, attended the grand opening of my cousin's new acupuncture practice, went on a picnic (a post to come on that later!), saw a movie, trimmed our front bushes with my ma, exercised three times, accomplished quite a bit on the magazine front, and went to work as per usual. i typically go to bed around midnight each night, which is terrible. but! come friday night i was dead tired, for good reason, and went to bed at ten! it's the little things that get me excited - things that remind me change is always possible. that, and the amazing weather we had this week! have a wonderful sunday! xo.

a fall walk.

2011-10-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

on tuesday my mom and i went on a walk around our neighborhood. it was fun to take the camera along and snap some shots of all the colorful leaves! this week has been busy but very good, and that makes me happy. of course there's always those moments where i'm a complete mess, but as long as the good moments out-number the not so good things are looking up. speaking of which, i hope you enjoy the photos :)

from picking pumpkins.

2011-10-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

this one was taken on sunday,

with one of my polaroid spectra cameras,

using film from the impossible project.

(to see more of my polaroids, click here!)

a thing for broccoli.

2011-10-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

scrambled eggs with broccoli:

cut up fresh broccoli into small pieces

steam until cooked thru (but still green!)

put broccoli into pan

along with:

a bit of extra virgin olive oil,

two eggs,

chopped pepperoni,

salt and pepper

stir until cooked to your liking.

plate it and eat!

feeling festive.

2011-10-05T08:08:00.000-05:00

i wore this skirt a couple months ago for a guest post on lauren's blog. it's the only maxi skirt i own and pretty unique to boot, so i don't always know what to do with it. but with fall arriving and pumpkins being picked, it seemed like a given that i'd pull it out for another round of personal styling. and beside that, i just love taking photos on this road...it feels so peaceful and simple. my recipe for the blues? go and find something orange to wear and a road surrounded by corn fields to dance around in. it works like a charm. ;)

engagement photos in the city.

2011-10-04T09:48:00.000-05:00

i spent most of saturday in chicago with my brother and his fiance taking some engagement photos for them. they already had some taken by their wedding photographer, which were great. so this was just an opportunity for me to practice my photography and give them a few more photos to use, too. we walked from the train to the lake shore and the planetarium, then back to the train station. lots of walking and brisk weather...but a very nice day! :)

picking pumpkins.

2011-10-03T06:07:00.000-05:00

i hope you all had a wonderful weekend! here in illinois we've officially welcomed fall with brisk temperatures and changing colors. so, to keep the autumn momentum going, my ma and i went out to pick some pumpkins yesterday. the past four or five years we've been going to this little setup on a corner that i would pass every day going to community college a few years ago. it's family run and very low-key. pumpkins and other goodies are divided up by size and priced accordingly...the most expensive pumpkins being seven dollars. not too shabby! oh, and drilled to the hay wagon is a metal box with a sign that reads, "honor system." don't you just love that? so, have you gone to pick pumpkins yet?

an average lunch.

2011-09-30T00:16:00.001-05:00

i love to make quick and easy one pan meals.

(basically i'm lazy)

one of my go-to concoctions is this bad boy,

and here is a list of the typical ingredients:

beans/i.e. pinto

vegetable/i.e. bell pepper

meat/i.e. salami

green olives

cumin

pepper

olive oil

i'm really a pretty simple girl, with simple taste buds.

and if i love something, it doesn't get old...

what's your go-to meal?

woody.

2011-09-28T15:15:00.002-05:00

this morning we took mr. woods out to do his business...

and snapped a few photos, too.

do you remember how small he was?

goodness we love him

(and his sister!)

rainy days.

2011-09-27T22:18:00.000-05:00

it sure has been a damp few days in these parts! to illustrate that fact, i'll share a secret: i have worn a variation of this outfit for the past three days. that's right. three days. call it dedication because i wanted to be ready when the opportunity came to run out and take photos between spurts of rain...or call it being relieved because on days two and three i was dressed and ready to go in less time than it took me to tie my shoes.

and i'm wearing boots.

so, yes. i'll gladly call it dedication. and i'll also pretend i didn't just elude to the fact that i take way to much time deciding what to wear each day. way to much.

going my own way.

2011-09-26T22:01:00.000-05:00

i was thinking about the magazine at work today and jotted down those words. well, all of them except the last line...which i feel makes the whole epiphany of sorts more relatable to any of you reading this. and keep in mind that i use the term epiphany extremely loosely. extremely. as i'm gathering ideas for articles and possible interviews and contributors for the mag, i always second guess myself and start to think if i'm doing it "right." but there is no right or wrong way to do anything creative. especially in this day and age - when everyone has done something that someone has done twice before and nothing is too outrageous or improbable. basically, i just have to believe in it enough which will in turn lead others to believe in it too. or, at least that's the hope.

and the thing is. i do believe in it. i believe that it's small now but it can and will become bigger. i just have to be patient in that knowledge and at the same time consistently impatient to make sure each issue is put out on time and with the high standards i've set for myself and it.

a recurring conversation i have with a good friend has to do with how men typically seem to be able to talk themselves up...to appear confident no matter if their work is worthy of that confidence or not. to boast and gloat and have the first say. and of course not all men are that way and not all women are the opposite...but from personal experience i will say that i have been. but i'm trying to make a conscious effort to be comfortable with bringing up my projects and design work to strangers. to stir up the conversation. because you never know what opportunities a simple bit of small talk will lead to. and on that same note, it really is amazing the people you can get to know when you do speak up.

all of that to say...right or wrong, i'll be going my own way from here on out. xo.

new glasses.

2011-09-23T07:03:00.000-05:00

do you wear glasses? i've needed them since third grade, but have been fortunate enough to wear contacts for the past five plus years. of course, i always have a pair of frames on hand for evenings, weekends, and such. so at my yearly eye exam i was due for an updated prescription and picked out these bold beauties from the "discount" section...only $39! i'll be honest, i prefer contacts and will continue to wear those - but don't be surprised if you see the frames make an appearance here and there! happy first day of fall everyone! xo.

library found (3)

2011-09-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

just a few of the fiction covers that have caught my eye recently while at work. now that i look at them, these four are really quite similar: solid color, muted texture, bold font, and singular images...maybe my taste is more obvious than i thought? ;) what attracts you to a book...is it the cover design?

(click here for more "library found" posts)

"thrifty business"

2011-09-21T06:30:00.000-05:00

ok, so truth be told i've never seen "risky business," except for the underwear bit of course. i was originally going to title this post "all business" because for me this feels like an office appropriate outfit. then i realized that it's all second-hand except for the shoes, which i can't seem to cross over and buy thrifted (call me crazy). this led my ever witty mind to the title you see above. i know, i know. you're blown away by my originality. me too! ;) happy wednesday folks, i hope it's a good one. xo.

ps: taking these photos with my mom was a hoot and a holler. have you ever taken photos of someone jumping? those are the best bloopers ever. ha!

pinterest, lately.

2011-09-20T06:30:00.000-05:00

Source: andthenshesaved.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: 2.bp.blogspot.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: busybeelauren.tumblr.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: modernemotive.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: lalasparkles.tumblr.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: calivintage.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: lifeasrust.tumblr.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: witanddelight.tumblr.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: charlotte-rouge.blogspot.com via katie on Pinterest

it just dawned on me that some of my readers may not be familiar with pinterest and what it's all about. basically, pinterest is a site dedicated to collecting your favorite images from around the web. every once in a while i will "pin" a piece of my own work, but for the most part all of the images i share with you via pinterest are not my own. click on the links below each image to find the site i found them from. to view the rest of my pins, click here. happy tuesday! xo.

the week ahead.

2011-09-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

a peek at the week.end.

2011-09-19T06:30:00.000-05:00

i hope you all had a wonderful weekend! i think i've mentioned before that weddings typically aren't my thing. but i must say, i had a great time spending friday evening with my whole family at our cousin's wedding!

saturday i was in a meeting for an exciting and all around positive venture that i can't really tell you anything about. but just know that it's going to be good! i also picked up my new prescription glasses...they have my brother's vote of approval and that's just about the toughest one to gain in my experience. ;)

sunday i made some progress on the magazine, looked at my brother's engagement photos (so pretty!), and watched the emmy awards (kyle chandler!).

i'll be back later today with a peek at the week ahead, which (in my humble opinion) you will not want to miss! xo.

a super sunday.

2011-09-14T07:22:00.000-05:00

this past sunday was full of goodness. in the morning i went to mass and came home to eat, print out directions, and relax a bit before heading out to plano, il with ang. we met our friend chris, played a couple games of bowling, took a long walk down main street, and ate at a local food joint. i should mention that the new superman movie just finished filming in plano a week or so ago...so a few of the photos below are the aftermath of that. pretty cool! there are no photos to prove it, but i did go out to play tennis with my family after getting home. despite being terrible and still sore days later, i had a really good time. super, in fact. ;)

renegade 2011.

2011-09-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

on saturday my friend angela and i drove into chicago for the annual renegade craft fair. our first "renegade" was last year, and i just love this little tradition we've started of going each year! sure, it's jam packed with people and over 300 artists is just a tad much for my sore feet...but it's worth it. it's so much fun to be amongst fellow creative souls, as cheesy as that may sound. :)

have you ever been to a renegade fair? i'd love to hear about your experience! xo.

one: unique buildings on milwaukee in wicker park (chicago).

two: rudy's roundup - fun little shop with great paper goods, jewelry, vintage, & more!

three - four: crossroads trading co. - resale clothing store full of great gently used items.

five - seven: buildings on the walk to renegade...

eight: welcome to renegade!

nine: unique repurposed lamps by "yellow square love"

ten: journals made of old books by "ex libris anonymous"

eleven - twelve: screenprinted t's and sweatshirts by "maryink"

thirteen: see you next year!

meet me at the fair.

2011-09-12T07:36:00.000-05:00

friday night my parents and i met up with my brother and his girlfriend at the 124th annual sandwich fair. we enjoyed the tilt-a-whirl, swings, and ferris wheel among other things. it's such a fun night being at the fair, walking around and seeing all the lights and people! and i honestly don't think my mom and i have laughed that hard since last year's tilt-a-whirl experience (it's a hoot!). what's your favorite thing about going to the fair? xo.

stripes and suspenders.

2011-09-09T17:36:00.000-05:00

i'm looking forward to a fun weekend! tonight we're headed down to sandwich, il for the 124th annual sandwich fair! tomorrow i'll be at renegade with angela for the second year in a row. maybe next year i'll have a booth there? who knows! and of course, more brainstorming ideas for projects, diy's, and all that jazz. i hope you all have a wonderful weekend! any plans you'd like to share? xo.

they say summer is over.

2011-09-08T19:17:00.000-05:00

with the changing of seasons quickly approaching i'm starting to get excited about fall. like many people, i find dressing in layers more interesting and appealing. heck, i practically dress in layers all summer! tights with skirts and dresses, blazers, and thick sweaters are all winners in my book. however i'm trying to avoid spending money for the next couple months - at least on frivolous things. this month has been going pretty well, if i do say so myself!

september industry.

2011-09-07T06:39:00.000-05:00

one & two & three & four & five & six

the september industry is a beautifully curated website full of modern graphic design. updated a few times a week, each piece is submitted by the artist and simply a feast for the eyes. all of these images i took from my pinterest, but you can click the numbers above for the direct links. enjoy browsing! xo.

(thank you ang for the link)

market/analog

2011-09-06T12:18:00.000-05:00

a few polaroids taken while at the dane county farmer's market in madison, wisconsin this past saturday. just look at those gorgeous sunflowers! xo.

a market like no other.

2011-09-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

last week at work i mentioned our trip to a co-worker and she highly recommended visiting the dane county farmer's market in madison, wisconsin. about 30 miles north of where we were staying in new glarus, the madison farmer's market is the largest producer-only farmer's market in the country. there are vendors lining the sidewalk around all four sides of the city block encompassing the capitol building. it took us nearly one hour to walk with the stream of people around the entire market. crazy! and beautiful...definitely a feast for the eyes. way to go madison, wisconsin - you impressed me!

a view from the top.

2011-09-05T12:24:00.000-05:00

these photos were taken from the new glarus brewery in new glarus, wisconsin.

the rolling hills and farms of the midwest are pretty darn beautiful....

a weekend away.

2011-09-05T06:11:00.000-05:00

here's a peek at some photos of the town of new glarus, wisconsin where we stayed this past weekend. the town has a population of 2,111 and is full of swiss history and traditions. we happened to be staying on labor day weekend, which provided for yodeling concerts and art shows, among other events. very festive and pretty darn quaint! the people of new glarus are certainly proud of their history - and so they should be. xo.

happy holiday weekend!

2011-09-01T18:01:00.001-05:00

i'll be away from the computer for the next few days.

we're headed up north for a little midwest vacation!

i'm excited to share all the fun details and photos next week,

and i hope you all have a safe and fun holiday weekend.

xo,

katie

moving forward.

2011-08-31T16:22:00.000-05:00

i had a great morning spent chatting with one of my favorite people...i love those sort of chats that leave you feeling motivated and positive about the future. don't you? this month has been full of good things and even better ideas. i'm excited to take steps toward making those ideas reality in the coming months. watch out september, i'm comin' for you! :) xo.

lessons.

2011-08-30T19:41:00.000-05:00

yesterday i had a bit of a breakdown. after i calmed down i realized (with my mom's help), that i am what they call an "idea person." however when it comes to executing those ideas, i tend to jump in without honing my skills, thinking ahead, and prioritizing. i think i've always known this about myself, but yesterday it really became obvious. seeing as i've been trying to make a conscious effort lately not to let criticism hurt my feelings, i am taking this new-found knowledge about myself and doing something positive with it. this means i am going to invest in some sewing classes! many of my "ideas" involve simple sewing, and while i can in fact use a sewing machine, i am not nearly skilled enough to prevent frustration and obvious mistakes. i have a feeling these classes will do me a world of good. and just maybe they will become the next phase of the "something new" series!?

so, what have you learned about yourself recently?

sisterhood everlasting.

2011-08-29T19:26:00.000-05:00

i first met carmen, lena, tibby, and bridget when i was a sophomore in high school. we had to do a book report for health, of all classes. after looking through our tiny school library, i settled on the sisterhood of the traveling pants by ann brashares.

the girls, all born in the month of september to mothers taking the same exercise class, grow up as the closest of friends. the first time they are to split up for summer vacation in high school, they find a mysterious pair of jeans that fit their differing body types and sizes. the jeans become the basis for their manifesto (pants=love, love your pals, love yourself) and keep the foursome bonded together when they can't seem to on their own. of course love and loss and the overwhelming power of friendship are the recurring themes of the series. and i am a sucker for the romance...yes i am.

with each book i got to know "the septembers" better, following them through all their highs and lows. just as i was going through my own growing pains. you see, i waited several months to finally read the fourth sisterhood book because it was supposed to be the last...and i just couldn't bear to leave those girls. but i did, and after going through the typical withdrawals, i eventually moved on.

then a couple months ago i heard that brashares had written a new installment in the sisterhood series, sisterhood everlasting, set to take place ten years after the last book. how exciting! only a couple short chapters in and i felt at home with these four women. i recognized brashares writing immediately, how she makes me care about carma, lena, tibby, and bee equally. each has their moment to shine, but in the end the story is really about their friendship...and how it remains true for their entire lives. tragedies and broken hearts may keep them apart, but they always find their way home to each other.

if i were to sing my praises, it would be to say that i'm grateful brashares kept the women and their partners (eric, brian, and kostos) together...most authors may fear the lack of new relationships, but brashares was always able to keep it fresh and sweetly familiar. if i were to complain, it would only be to say i felt carmen's storyline was not as strong as she deserved. but to be honest, that's beside the point. i loved the book completely.

nearly a decade ago, ann brashares created a world in which four teenage girls from bethesda lived. four girls who were real and yet perfectly fictional all at the same time. maybe not everyone's cup of tea, these books - cemented with this last installement - are some of my very favorite.

testing.

2011-08-27T22:19:00.000-05:00

hi folks :) i just wanted to pop in to share a couple test shots of some food photography i'm working on this weekend. in the coming days, weeks, and months i'll be sharing lots of sneak peeks and news updates regarding the magazine launch happening this winter 2011! (ps: isn't that rainbow napkin so fun?)

library found (2)

2011-08-26T12:01:00.002-05:00

encoded messages, check.

dancing leprechauns, check.

...the way to a woman's heart...

(for more "library found" posts, click here)

hands.

2011-08-26T08:54:00.000-05:00

just a few photos of a pair of hands.

i love all the wrinkles, big knuckles, and veins...

"experience only"

2011-08-25T21:18:00.000-05:00

"he sees that his debt

is to experience only"

noah & the whale,

"tonight's the kind of night"

i feel like right now, these months after college, are my time. my time to jump into new experiences, screw up or succeed, and move on from there. i have nearly every opportunity i could imagine at my feet. wouldn't i be a fool if i didn't just simply try? the dreams i have today may not be the dreams i have in five years, and that scares me a little. but, there's also a good chance they will be the same dreams - and to think i would have started it all at twenty-two. my only debt to myself is to experience everything i can...and that's what i plan to do. if you get nothing else out of reading this blog, please let it be that: we can be anything we imagine for our lives...we just have to try. failure is optional...trying is not.

elburn days.

2011-08-22T21:42:00.001-05:00

after a very rainy saturday morning, my mom and i were able to scoot up to the small town of elburn, il for their annual "elburn days" festivities. well, all i was really after was a visit to the church sale and local antique shop. unfortunately the church sale was already packing up, so that was a quick stop! we got back in the car and drove across the way to the antique store and yard sale where there were lots of pretty things for sale. i snatched up an adorable little wood and metal kid's chair for three dollars as well as a daisy brooch and a couple linens. happy day! xo.

so, what do you look for at thrift and antique stores? i'd love to know!

color me happy.

2011-08-20T19:20:00.000-05:00

o.m.g.

this week treated me very well, i must say. and what's amazing is that i feel like i was able to revel in the opportunities that were presented to me. to truly acknowledge how great they are and can become if pursued. i feel blessed. but i also feel proud, certain of myself, and what i am capable of. the best part?

it's only going to get better.

and, yes, i know that was incredibly vague. i will share more of what these opportunities are and how they progress as they unfold in the coming weeks and months.

for now, i'll share this: they mainly involve my pursuance of developing a food photography magazine as an offshoot of the 'off switch' brand with my friend ang. i've had a passion for creating a magazine ever since i took a course at university one year ago where we had to create our own 8 page mag. the magazine will be focused on natural and healthy foods and dishes, have a vintage feel, and an emphasis on great editorial design. it will be a quarterly online magazine, and launch late october (hopefully!).

last but not least: i hope that by sharing my excitement for my future, it can inspire some of you to get excited about your own. because it's ours for the taking. all my very best, katie. xo.

something new: part 3.

2011-08-19T20:48:00.001-05:00

that's right! another installment of something new: the series where i make a conscious effort to explore new avenues and goals, and provide updates along the way. this first goal has been to have fun exploring the use of layers and transparencies in photoshop. i've got to say, i'm enjoying it a lot! the image above is probably my favorite. i'm considering adding it to the online store (which will launch late fall, early winter). tell me, would you like the chance to purchase it? or do you prefer the last image? i'd love some input! xo.

on pins and needles.

2011-08-18T23:05:00.000-05:00

no, i'm not awaiting any big news or anything.
just felt the title was very apropos for the photo. xo.

thrift and fix.

2011-08-16T20:41:00.000-05:00

i was happy to be able to work on some little projects today! i always have so much that i want to do and when i finally get my act together, it takes so much longer than i expected. such is life, i suppose! i'm so proud that this outfit, except for the shoes, is completely second-hand. the top is actually a dress (shown above) that i purchased for one dollar. i hemmed the sleeves, which were already gathered at the shoulder and when shortened provided a lot of ruffles - fun! the skirt i found yesterday at goodwill for four dollars. it was calf length, so i shortened and hemmed it just above the knee. i've got some other fun diy's and projects that i'm collecting for and will be completing soon. and of course i'll be sharing them here with pictures!

have you done any fun diy's lately? i'd love to see them! xo.

pinterest, lately.

2011-08-15T21:35:00.000-05:00

Source: lifeasrust.tumblr.com via katie on Pinterest

just a little "smattering" of what you'll find on my pinterest. i appreciate that any image i find and post here via pinterest will come with the "original" source link below it. it's always a good thing to site your sources, at least to the best of your ability. while all of the images in this post are pretty to me, i especially love the one above. it was taken by my friend ang, and i honestly can't get over how stunning it is. she's so talented. :) which one's your favorite? xo.

Source: mocking-bird.org via katie on Pinterest

Source: thatsjustitphoto.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: andrewandcarissa.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: liveandenliven.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: callmeredtelephone.blogspot.com via katie on Pinterest

Source: blog.ricecracker.net via katie on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via katie on Pinterest

all in the wrist.

2011-08-15T04:55:00.005-05:00

this past week my aunt and uncle were visiting from out of state. nearly one year ago when they came i took my very first polaroid! it's been good catching up with them over dinners and little afternoon outings. on sunday my ma, grandma, aunt, and i played a couple games of yahtzee outside before dinner. despite a few bouts of rain, last week was pretty darn gorgeous. here's to this week being just as wonderful! xo.

something new: part 2.

2011-08-11T19:15:00.000-05:00

remember when i said one new thing i wanted to do was explore playing with layers in photoshop? well, here's my latest stab at it! i'm really enjoying all the textures and bright colors in the clouds. i took this photo a few days ago and whenever i see it i always think of my drive home from work at night. some evenings the moon is so low, big, bright, colorful, or what have you that i become mesmerized by it and follow it all the way home. simple little joys!

a closer look.

2011-08-10T22:49:00.000-05:00

remember yesterday's post?

in the city.

2011-08-09T22:24:00.001-05:00

today my friend ang and i rode the train into chicago to visit our "alma mater" and get a little work done. even though we didn't really get much accomplished, i had a pretty great day. it's just fun to get out and be around people and new things, you know? anyway, today i discovered two wonderful things: first, an amazing painter by the name of sue averell. so happy i got to see some of her work - love! second, a friendly and healthy food place called protein bar. it was nice to go out to eat and not be silently judged for asking if something contains soy. made me so happy!

i hope you all had a great day :)

at the farmer's market.

2011-08-08T13:02:00.001-05:00

taken august 6, 2011 on a polaroid camera with expired 600 film.

saturday morning.

2011-08-08T05:21:00.000-05:00

i had fun with my mom saturday morning. we cracked some funnies, at eggs together, cut some veggies, and took a little trip to the farmer's market. this is what i wore there: one of my favorite striped tops and a newly thrifted navy skirt that i got for one dollar! it's a tad tight, if that makes you feel better about it being a dollar ;) i hope you all had a great weekend! xo.

out to water.

2011-08-05T18:40:00.000-05:00

i took these photos yesterday when i was watering my plants. all of the bigger sunflowers have shown yellow and have bees constantly swarming about their heads. what fun... i was standing there with my shoulders hunched up next to my ears holding the watering can with a trembling arm. the sound of buzzing bees just creeps me out! anyway, it's been very hot here lately, and i think all the plants are looking forward to some cooler weather - me included!

have a great weekend everyone, and welcome new readers! i'm happy to have you here. xo.

breakfast for lunch.

2011-08-04T21:54:00.000-05:00

i eat eggs just about every day...my favorite way? with green olives, of course.

how do you prepare your eggs?

library found (1)

2011-08-04T19:54:00.000-05:00

as many of you know i've been working at a library for nearly five years now. even though my job is pretty simple, i really do like where i work. over the years i've come across some interesting people and things that i thought were worth posting here for kicks and giggles. so, periodically i'll be sharing what i have checked out from my library, funny notes i've found, stories, favorite book cover designs, and whatever else presents itself.

consider this the first installment of library found!

(asking the BIG questions)

"texas forever"

2011-08-03T06:01:00.001-05:00

like so many other americans, tv has been a huge part of my life for as long as i can remember. for better or worse my grade school and high school years are filled with memories of watching west wing, gilmore girls, bones, alias (you get the idea). never one for video games, i have always loved great acting and writing and having the opportunity to watch people's lives and relationships unfold on the screen. real or not, i love tv.

i knew friday night lights was a show i needed to see from beginning to end when i got upset reading the series finale recap in entertainment weekly, without having watched a full episode before. and after watching four of the five seasons this past month, i can honestly say it's one of my favorite tv shows. i truly appreciate the filming techniques, the writing, the actors, the characters, the relationships, and the humor. basically, it's pretty spot on fantastic. and to quote one of my favorite characters, tim riggins, "texas forever."

so, are you an fnl fan?