simple, perfect evening

Memorial Day weekend is full of plans and parties, sometimes so many it seems like too much. You just want to stay home in the hammock. But spending time with friends is one of the best things in life, I think. Good friends had a get together recently that was wonderfully easy and effortless- despite the hostess' impending due date! Style, grace and laughter made the night one that I'll remember for a long while...

Night Lights

Last week, I had drinks after work with A at LACMA and I was able to see this art installation in person. Artist Chris Burden restored over 200 lamp posts and they have been creating luminary magic for patrons and passersby ever since. For reference they have been in films like that other Natalie Portman movie, where they were the pivotal spot for a romantic confession. And, in a confession of my own, I have to admit that it is a truly engaging space to move through- like a forest of light in the middle of the city. And we weren't alone- there were at least two couples getting engagement photos taken- just saying.

Cleaning Thrift Art

Oh, the treasures that can be found at Salvation Army....Love it! I found this simple, but sweet, vintage painting...unfortunately, it's previous life was in a smokier home than ours. What to do? I was not sure how to clean away the brown haze that years of tobacco smoke had left. But never fear!!! Laure had a great idea- Magic Eraser! Apparently approved for vintage pieces, like Nelson pendants, that have also escaped the flames, but not the smoke. So last weekend, I broke out the cleaning supplies (damp magic eraser & dry paper towel) and engaged in an intense 3 minutes of cleaning- the result was amazing!!! I wish I had taken a before photo, but people look at the sponge and towel- they give you an idea. So now you know! Don't be afraid of a little smoky haze.... (disclaimer: the painting was not expensive or of personal significance, so I took the chance. If you are looking at cleaning a more important piece, consult a professional!)

Happy Easter

I hope that you all had a great Easter! Christ is risen indeed! We were more home-bound than planned, as Manish was sick all weekend. But the upside was a great day in the kitchen and wonderful church services.....
(in case you are wondering what has his attention so fixed, it is our favorite 4-year old Canadian, Caillou....)

Backyard days

The weather has been warm and amazing the last few days. We joke that if summer was like this we cut handle it....ahhhh, but for now we are just enjoying the relaxing time.

Spring Cleaning...

Yes, it's true! I have restocked Industrious Lily with lots of spring goods. This is due mostly in part to the major cleaning efforts at the studio- whew! So enjoy the benefits of the organization efforts...Happy Spring everyone!

print fun!

Finally printed out some more of the posters that I designed last fall- hooray! If you are looking for fun, colorful pieces- these fit the bill. They should be up on Etsy in the next day or two....Fun times!!!