Postcards by the Sea

Life is a Rollercoaster Ride...

2011-12-20T09:15:00.000-08:00

Traveling without a road map...that's what this past year has been. And I've gone off road and off course and off the rails...but I suppose the wonder of being human is that we can heal, we can fix, we can learn and we can change. And make the ride a little bit less bumpy. As the holidays come barreling toward us, I wish you peace, happiness, health and, more than ANYTHING ELSE, I wish you self-love. Without that, it's difficult to feel true love for anyone else. Love and be good, no-be GREAT to yourself and all else will fall where it may...xoxoxo

It's the Most Wonderful Time...AGAIN!!!!???!!!

2011-12-19T11:38:00.000-08:00

SO....it's that time of year again. I was thinking of going for a Danish theme on my tree this year but the offspring practically rioted three years ago when I did a blue, silver and white theme. They like putting their beloved treasures upon the tree. And, as they are my beloved treasures, I shall abide by their wants.

More Long Branch Street Art...

2011-04-16T02:59:00.000-07:00

More Broadway street art. I always thought I'd love a cool mural in my house, but then I realized you can't take it with you when/if you move. The lesson in THAT, of course, is that everything is temporary and eventually we'll all have to let go of everything we love/admire/cherish. Depressing yet liberating, no?

Long Branch NJ Art on the Street...OR Edgy Librarian Photos

2011-04-07T11:14:00.000-07:00

I've never been a, well, a girl who follows too many trends. With regard to reading, films, plays, etc. I gravitate toward the original, the different, the outsider effect I suppose it could called. I was lucky enough to recently work with Andrea Phox, photographer extraordinaire, again, using the incredible backdrop of the Long Branch, NJ Broadway arts district. So many talented artists have used the area (soon to be redeveloped) as an enormous gallery.
Please check Andrea's blog out for more AMAZING photos!!! www.blog.andreaphox.com and tell her Tara sent you!!! Enjoy.

http://networkedblogs.com/gcIV0

Escape from NJ...

2011-01-22T16:13:00.000-08:00

If anything should do a heart good, it would be escaping from this seemingly endless Jersey winter and getting away to Florida for a week. Right? And we had a great time. It was a week of quite good weather (Florida being the only state without snow on the ground), miles of walking each day-which had the benefit of knocking a couple pounds off me-and general escapism. Universal Studios is so much fun. We stayed at the Hard Rock which makes vacationing ridiculously convenient...everything is walkable, unlike the Happiest Place on Earth where transportation is always a concern, and walk we did. I actually got back to the room one night, lay down just to relax for "a minute" and didn't awaken until the next morning. Perfect. I'm a girl who is always on the quest for a good night's sleep. The daughters had a great time. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is amazing...and now I know what Butter Beer tastes like. I hit one of my favorite roller coaster (Dueling Dragons, which pre-dated but is now part of Harry Potter) and got to feel that delicious sensation of being completely out of control and flying through the air. I also got to see my gorgeous cousin and her two daughters, which was SUCH a happy reunion for me. We did have to drive back (1,000 miles) through a wicked ice storm but even that was manageable. SO, with having all that fun and being out in the sun for a week and generally being happy, why do I feel melancholic for things over which I have no control? Yeah, kind of a bummer end to a great time, and I guess leaves things kind of untied, as far as blog posts go, but this is just where I am...kind of down, at least at the moment. xo

Uniforms at Work? Well, if we must...

2010-12-13T11:33:00.000-08:00

We were recently asked if we would be "willing" to wear uniforms to work IF the city decides all employees should have a standardized dress code. I said no, just for the record, but if we were to be forced into uniforms, what do you think the chances are the city would choose Kors, Klein, Chanel or Thakoon to design our garb? I noticed, looking at the 2011 collections, that there is a very clean, crisp line in many of the designs. We wouldn't look merely professional, we would look polished, professional and AMAZING in these beauties. Ah, well, a girl can dream...

Chelsea Bus Roll

2010-10-16T15:45:00.000-07:00

Just purchased this awesome London bus scroll on etsy. Can't wait to get it and have it hanging in our living room. Loving black and white these days, and of course love all things which were once in service and now, re-claimed, serve as art. Check out this etsy seller for more of these:
www.etsy.com/shop/recentsettlers

A Sick Day for Amos McGee

2010-10-14T10:24:00.000-07:00

OK, just read this fantastic gem of a children's book today. The illustrations will make you want to cry they are so amazing and the story is a whimsical delight. This is a collaborative work by a husband and wife team, Philip C. and Erin E. Stead. Erin's art is created with woodblock printing and pencil and I hope to see many, many more books by the Steads. (Philip also wrote and illustrated "Creamed Tuna Fish & Peas on Toast"...funny with great collage style illustrations). Pick it up at the book store or of course come on up to the Children's Room and I'll read it to you!

2010-10-11T20:29:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year...sad to see Summer go but loving the crispness Autumn brings. The "Halloween Typography" sign is available at www.barnowlprimitives@etsy.com and the "Hocus Pocus" can be purchased at: www.blueeyedgirl@etsy.com . The "October" silhouette is yours for the taking, it would be cute as an invitation or made into a small sign. And I believe "Country Living" shot the awesome black and white composition. We've been working on Halloweening our little cottage...I'll put some pics up when the last black wreath is hung.

Wedded bliss...

2010-10-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

My brother, Sean, married his love, Kelly, yesterday. Or, should I say I married them...they asked me to officiate and I was touched and honored beyond belief. They are two of the most special people I've ever had the honor of knowing, and I wish them a lifetime of love and happiness.

Changes...

2010-09-04T16:51:00.000-07:00

are taking the pace I'm going through...OK, so Bowie sounds better when he sings the song, but I'm feeling the effects of changes these days. Eldest daughter is off to college, we took her last week. This summer has flown by with amazing fleetness. Everyone asks if I cried when we dropped Molly off, the answer is no. She worked hard to get to where she is, this time in our lives is definitely one of adjustment but I'm learning to stop being wistful for the Wonder Years with my sweet girls and, instead, embrace the future and look forward to good things happening for all three of them. So, Time may change me, but I can't trace time...

One Happy Dansk Kvinde!

2010-07-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

Photos above are: Copenhagen canal, Maureen and Casey at the entrance to Tivoli, Casey and I at the "Pagoda" in Tivoli, Casey and her Great Aunt Maureen at the Pagoda and, last photo, Maureen with her beloved Great Aunt Sorine at the same Pagoda! I loved when Sorine and her sister Karen came to visit the U.S. from Aalborg...they were delightful, happy, wonderful women and I wish I'd been old enough to have shared more memories with them.

Though we returned from our trip last week, I've not gotten around to posting about it...I was facebooking pretty obsessively while we were still in Europe, so now it's time to update this poor neglected little blog. My daughter, Casey, (15, nearly 16), my Aunt Maureen (not much older than I am, therefore more like a big sister) and I were a very compatible trio, which made traveling really pleasant and stress free. We were able to see SO MUCH in two weeks...my grandmother's beautiful, fairy tale like birthplace Nykobing Mors, the amazingly clean and happy city of Copenhagen, the huge world cup fueled party in Amsterdam and even made it to Bruges, for a day! Never mind spending a weekend in Germany! We used our time well and Maureen was an excellent tour guide/travel agent/family historian!
Before we left for this holiday, I found myself asking the question, "will this trip be able to meet my hopes for it?" and I am grateful to say it not only met my expectations but far surpassed them. It was a strange sense, landing in a country I'd never been to yet feeling like I was home...Denmark went straight to my heart and I hope to return many times in the future. It is, for me, a sort of DisneyWorld, a place which seems nearly too good to be true. And that is a wonderful thing. I feel like Peter Pan, urging everyone who believes in fairies to clap their hands...save Tink. There was an amazing sense of wonder for me, visiting Tivoli, one of the oldest amusement parks in Europe, site of my Great Grandparents meeting each other (they were at a dance and pulled the same number, 13, which sent them dancing together, not only for that night but the rest of my Great Grandmother Valborg's life...) and having my sweet daughter with me...I felt a lightness, a pure happiness which I embraced and am trying to hold on to. Again like Peter, I do believe, I do believe... More to come on our trip, just wanted to touch base and put a few photos up. xoxo

Something's Gotta Give...

2010-05-22T17:35:00.000-07:00

LOVED the home in the movie "Something's Gotta Give"...so crisp, cottagey and beachy without being overly thematic or cutesy...makes me want to grab a book and relax.

What's shakin' on the shore...

2010-05-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

SO busy lately, but two things of note. Rufus Wainwright is coming to ASBURY PARK!!! Just can't wait. Tix go on sale tomorrow and the show is August 1.

Did a photo shoot today with the amazing Andrea Dorman Phox. And, featured prominently is "the" red dress which I was so psyched about in the previous post. Twenty bucks never looked so good, if I say so myself!!! Andrea is wonderful, if you're in the tri-city area and need a photog I strongly suggest you look her up!!! We shot in a "secret garden" and it was a great, relaxed day of beautiful work!!! Check out Andrea's work at: www.andreaphox.com or blog.andreaphox.com OR become a fan on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Andrea-Phox-Photography

2010-04-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

Mmmm hmmmm...Missus Beasley may have out-shopped herself today. While at anthropologie, storming the sale room, I found this incredibly lovely red dress for...$49.95. Ta-da! I hadnt seen it there before, unlike the items I sometimes stalk till they are relegated to the sale room. Oh, but my day was to become ever so much better. When we got to the check-out, the anthro-girl couldn't find the proper sku #. She was apologetic and calm and had to attempt to find the proper sku number via computer and it just wasn't working...I'm a mellow shopper and didn't mind the delay at all, though I felt a little trepidation that, it being April Fool Day, she would find out the dress really cost $200. She, ingenious girl she was, actually remembered which catalogue it was in and looked it up that way (there was a stash of them in a drawer behind the counter). She found it and announced after ringing in the numbers, that this beautiful find was...prepare yourself...$19.95. Words which brought tears of joy to this cheapskates eyes. As my youngest brother is getting married to the greatest woman in the world in October, I do believe I have my dress! p.s. Original price was $188.

Pretty in Pink in the Kitchen

2010-03-28T17:41:00.001-07:00

Since, after the reno we've done, the kitchen needs to be painted, I've been looking for something which "feels right". Surprisingly enough, pink has been presenting itself as a possibility. I like the sweet, retro feel pink lends itself to. We'll have to wait and see, as I currently don't have the time to invest in a kitchen makeover. But I do love to look!

2010-03-17T09:36:00.000-07:00

Secrets for Spring, by Shannon Richardson, oil on canvas, 20" x 24"

I love this painting, the title, everything about it. Speaking of "Secrets for Spring", what are some of yours? One of the most crucial "secrets" has got to be what we do in Autumn-months ahead of Spring...planting crocuses and hyacinth are musts for me. The past few days it's been a bit warmer here at the Shore and my Spring bulbs are pushing up and saying hello. What a welcome sight they are after an extraordinarily long-feeling Winter. Seriously, it seemed as if we were in an endless cycle of storms and darkness. And parts of the area are still recovering from the Nor'Easter which hit last weekend. We were so lucky, but (unable to stay away from the lure of the ocean) when we went down to check out the beachfront it was seriously scary. The sand was blowing horizontally and the waves were pushing foam out onto the road. Crazy exciting.

"The Old Painted Cottage"

2010-03-02T06:33:00.001-08:00

OK, when you have time may I suggest you check out Jennifer's awesome site, "The Old Painted Cottage". Particularly her "Cottage of the Month", which she's been putting together since 2006. It is seriously addictive...as in, you will want to look at every cottage from every month from the past four years and next thing you know, 2 hours have gone by. Worth every minute! Like taking a REALLY good house tour but without any fussy, show-offy Junior Leaguers bossing you around. Have fun!

http://theoldpaintedcottage.com/pages/cotm.htm

Snow Mickey

2010-02-27T18:30:00.001-08:00

My youngest daughter and I made a "Snow Mickey"...after shoveling out my car, of course! Tomorrow I'd like to attempt a snow fort. With all the drifts it shouldn't be too hard. I'm learning to roll with the punches, or at least roll with the snowflakes!

Make it stop, make it stop, make it stop...

2010-02-25T17:59:00.000-08:00

View from the Children's Room in the Library...overlooking Slocum Park.
It does look pretty, all this snow, but between working full time, mothering 3 teenaged girls and life in general, I have no time for snow. I hate the time it takes to clean my car, shovel it out and drive on slippery roads! With crazy Jersey drivers! It makes everything more difficult. Please, Spring, come soon! Please?
If anyone is in the mood for a quirky, funny, touching book, pick up Merrill Markoe's "Walking In Circles Before Lying Down". I'm loving it!

Beautiful Blog...

2010-02-24T17:44:00.000-08:00

OK, one of the magical "Shutters Sisters" has started a blog and it is beyond lovely. She has an eye which is just incredible! The "Pink" picture is one of the invitations to her daughter's first birthday party...and of course I love the mini motel chair in the other photo. After looking at Jill's blog I'm going to have to put in some time tonight and do some plastic surgery on this one. Take a peek...you won't be disappointed!
www.bennettandcompany.blogspot.com

Charcoal Ceiling...

2010-02-21T08:17:00.000-08:00

These are the "Ralph" colors, suggested by the Rain Man of decorating herself. I think they would look great touched off by a charcoal ceiling...

I am obsessing over the charcoal ceiling in the above dining room shot...we are having our living room and dining room ceilings repaired after an absolutely disastrous go-round with some grant money we were eligible for and the contractor the city picked to do the work. He opened the roof then LEFT IT UNTARPED WHILE THERE WAS A VERITABLE MONSOON HAPPENING. If only someone had taken photos of me DANGLING CHRISSY, BEST FRIEND EVER, BY HER ANKLES OUT AN ATTIC WINDOW AS SHE ATTEMPTED TO SECURE A TARP OVER THE OPEN MAW OF MY ROOF!!! Not a bright spot in our home-owning history. It's funny how I have absolute guilt attacks if someone asks me to re-new a book for them (while I'm perusing the grocery store shelves) and I don't do it right away upon returning to work, yet there are people in this world who will leave your roof open to the tune of flooding your home from attic to cellar and not think twice about it.

In any case, I've been trying to figure out an appropriate design plan to tie in a charcoal ceiling to our Craftsman Bungalow dining room...it will come to me eventually. Perhaps even in time to have the ceiling guy do it! Along with having the ceilings patched and plastered I need to paint the dining room walls.

While hosting the delightful Sandra for dinner last night (homemade chicken enchiladas for her, veggie enchiladas for me thanks to genius chef 15 year old daughter) she, who eschews all talk/dreaming/planning of decorating, suggested the Ralph Lauren suede-finish paint in a perfect color. (see swatches above) She acted, afterward, as if she'd been struck by lightning. "What just happened? I don't even care about paint color. I didn't even KNOW about Ralph Lauren suede paint, I swear. What the hell was in that enchilada?". Delightful. She then said, "Well, you're not actually going to take my advice, are you? YOU'RE the one who likes to decorate. YOU'RE the one with 'the eye'". This all just proves that inspiration strikes where it likes, not where it's sought. That or there really was some magic in those enchiladas.

I'm not going to be in today...

2010-02-19T05:22:00.000-08:00

Pop in a video and call it "Toddler Time"...

Sick Day Procedural:

Last evening: Got into bed early (had to catch up on the Real Housewives from last week so as to know what's the what this week). Fell asleep before new episode even hit the screen. Yay...sleeping, sleeping.

2:37 a.m. Middle daughter awakens me. Seems youngest daughter is sick. Like already thrown up in her bed sick.

2:42 Stripping bed, comforting upset, vomit laden child who is hugging the bowl like a frat boy.

2:58 Have re-settled puker, know there's no way I'll be falling back to sleep so traipse down to hang out with cat and watch "Snapped" a show which my family loathes - are they afraid I'll be next to Snap???

3:47 Up. Murder show. Cat ditched me.

4:07 Yay. "How Clean is Your House"!!! I feel like Martha Freaking Stewart after watching the filth people have surrounded themselves in. My personal faves broadcast on this show are overflowing cat boxes, overflowing ashtrays and overflowing stretch pants.

5:34 Check facebook. See some friends are actually awake and on. Leave sad status update about puke a thon. Receive instant sympathy and offers of "if there's anything I can do". How I love facebook.

6:07 Begin obsessing about calling out sick from work. KEEP IN MIND: 2 weeks ago I was sick, fever and all, went to work because that is a less stressful proposition than calling out sick, and my house got robbed. While I was at work. Sick.

Can't leave sick child home alone. Robbers may come back and steal her. Hate calling out sick because it's always fraught with drama. There's no one else to do Toddler Time. How will we do Toddler Time? Oh my God, how can there not be a Toddler Time? My suggestion would be to put out a box of wine and paper cups, turn the hokey pokey up as loud as it goes and have the best Toddler Time ever.

Speaking of calling out sick, can someone please tell me isn't it typical to call one's place of employment and not have to track your supervisor down at home to let it be known there will be no Toddler Time today??? Our (totally made-up) official policy is to call our supervisors before 8:00 a.m. Even though they don't come to work till 10. I've never had a job where you have to first try the cell phone (off) of supervisor, then talk to supervisor's adult son on their house phone (pleasantry, pleasantry, is your mom up and about?) then finally get supervisor out of shower just to say, UM, So very sorry but I won't be in today.
Allright, all, do have a wonderful day.

Ugly brown shelves no more...

2010-02-15T10:23:00.000-08:00

We have a set of shelves in our kitchen which, for the past few years have annoyed me every time I walked past them. They were a really homely mud brown and seemed to be a catch-all for all sorts of detritus...now, freshened with a coat of white paint, they are quite cute if I say so myself.

Does it make the world go round?

2010-02-14T09:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day...may your day be brightened by love in some form...the love of wonderful friends, the uncompromising love of parents, the unconditional love of a child...the absolutely necessary but so often neglected love of ourselves. Do something nice for yourself today. You deserve it. You are loved.

Blizzard 2010

2010-02-10T16:04:00.000-08:00

Well, it seems a state of emergency was prematurely called for our area. All that drama for a slow, drizzly sleet. THEN it started snowing...so now, we'll probably be out in it tomorrow when the roads and walkways are actually going to be far worse than today. My teen-chef daughter made a wonderful "Widow Tweed's Cheddar Soup" which we enjoyed throughout the day, so it was a cozy day spent with the family. Not a bad way to pass time. Though this weather makes me absolutely crave summer.
On top of being "sleeted in" today, a high school friend somehow (after two years of batting the idea around) got me to agree to do the Danskin Triathlon with her on Sandy Hook in September. I told her I am hers for the next six months, she must be in charge of training, motivating and coaching me through to September 11, the date of this event. So, we shall see how this all pans out! I'm pretty psyched to have a fitness goal as lofty as this one, hope the swimming doesn't "sink" me!

Blanca

2010-02-03T19:10:00.000-08:00

Mmmmmm....white, soothing white. I have just got to get the mojo going to learn to make slipcovers. I will be slipcovering everything...

"I wasn't even supposed to be here today"

2010-01-30T20:41:00.000-08:00

aren't those Dante's famous words from Kevin Smith's movie "Clerks"? Well, I should have called out sick yesterday and didn't. Instead I left work after half a day to come home for some tea, comfort and recuperation. Unfortunately, I came home to find our house had been broken into and robbed. And they took everything they possibly could, which means they must have come in a truck/van. It happened in broad daylight on a well traveled street between 9 am and 12:40 pm. We are, needless to say, sick over it. In trying to sort through the very weighted emotions, I penned a little note to the shit birds who are responsible. So.......here it is:

Dear Thieves:

My daughters don't want to sleep in their own home tonight...they don't feel safe. So, thanks, criminals who aren't fit for gainful employment...thanks so much for stealing my children's security. By the way, your timing was quite good. Considering you managed to steal my daughter's birthday gifts-most in the form of money sent to her by those who love her. Tomorrow is her birthday. I'm certain she won't remember how horrible her 18th birthday was because you helped yourself to her gifts. Oh, wait...yes, whe will definitely remember how horrible it felt. Normal people are actually affected by such acts of cruelty. By the way, fellas, that little safe you took? The one with no key? No money in it, just an 8th grade yearbook and some sentimental papers. See what you get on the street for those treasures. Hopefully an ass kicking from the scumbag you sell it to.

I don't know who failed you or why. All I know is you've unleashed your inability to contribute anything valuable to society on people who work hard to earn what they have. At least that's how my youngest daughter phrased it. Even a twelve year old knows not only right from wrong but good from evil. I'm sorry for whatever lead you to this path but I won't be sorry to see you pay your dues.

If you were stealing food to feed your children I would wish you the best and attempt to help you in any way possible. This, however...this is going to be a tough one to get over and forgive. This was an act of sociopathic, cash driven malice. Why should there be forgiveness for this?

We, as a family, enjoyed dinner at a restaurant tonight. Talk revolved around favorite books, least favorite books, college plans, high school activities, middle school happenings, music, sisterhood, food, travel, movies and various other rather inane topics. We as a family were together, we were complete and we were happy. By breaking into our beloved home and stealing what belonged to us you ruined a small piece of our happiness and security. But you also allowed us to see the bigger picture. There are certain things which are impossible to steal, no matter how accomplished a petty criminal you are. And for what your life lacks and mine is abundant with, I pity you.

Ah, well...therapy comes in many forms. Mine seems to write letters to phantoms. But, in all seriousness, protect your home. Network with your neighbors, pay attention to anyone with a particularly focused interest in your home, think about a security system, be aware of any workmen you hire, don't be afraid to call police if anything unusual occurs, from having door to door salesmen pop up on your doorstep to anyone on your property without your prior knowledge, DON'T hide a key outside your property, develop a healthy, friendly relationship with the local law makers and law keepers, whatever preventative steps you can take, please do. And I don't mean to sound paranoid, I am all about living in a home not an imposing fortress, but having this happen feels beyond lousy. It really does. xoxo tara
Thanks for reading.

The REAL Jersey Shore...

2010-01-25T11:25:00.000-08:00

Who says you aren't able to enjoy being "down the Shore" in the middle of January? In the middle of the night? For those of you who've had the unfortunate experience of seeing MTV's "Jersey Shore", may I clarify a few things? And, really, I'm not bashing the show...though the cast is made up of people clearly NOT from the shore, it is entertaining and who wouldn't want to take a voyeuristic peek on a house where people are "goin' tannin', gettin' my hair did and goin' to the nail salon", presumably so they look pretty when they get involved in a bar brawl later in the day?

We Jersey Girls love our beaches. The night these photos were snapped, Chrissy and I had been to the charming West End area of Long Branch, where we drank a few "Snowballs in Hell" which actually taste nothing short of heavenly. (Somehow Chrissy cribbed the recipe, I will try to remember to post it in full, but just know it includes Godiva white, Stoli Vanil, cream and angel wings or pixie dust or unicorn eyelash...)

So, we love our beaches enough to visit them in the wee hours and look for...sea glass! I managed to get my poor boots wet, but Chrissy not only stayed dry but scored an amazing piece of glass!!!
Jersey Girls LOVE sea glass!
Jersey Girls love State beaches.
Jersey Girls do not frequent tanning salons, they do use sunscreen and will dip into the self-tanner for some color when necessary.
Jersey Girls know (when they forget their sunscreen) a milk bath, 3 Motrin and clean white sheets cure a sunburn.
Jersey Girls love boardwalks. To run on, eat funnel cake on, play cheesy games on. Yes, we get the "kitsch" factor.
Jersey Girls do not love 3 inch acrylic nails. Nor do they get their "hair did".
Jersey Girls may not admit it but they do love the song "Jersey Girl".
Jersey Girls decorate with things they find on the beach...jars of seaglass, starfish, a little driftwood with candles...
Jersey Girls have gone swimming naked in the Atlantic Ocean at LEAST once in their lives.
Jersey Girls shop at Shutters in Fair Haven!!!
Jersey Girls may complain about "Bennies" (see MTV for examples) but have usually made out with one at some point.
Jersey Girls don't pack anything for the beach except: a towel, chair, book and umbrella. Oh, and a bottle of water.
Jersey Girls don't care if their butts look fat in a wet suit.
Jersey Girls stand up for environmental issues.
Jersey Girls like to sit and stare at the ocean. Even when it's empty of hot surfers.
Jersey girls wear flip flops until the temperature drops below 40.
And...last but not least, Jersey Girls don't date guys who go by "The Situation" or girls named "Snooki" but do have mad crushes on a guy known as "The Boss".

July will find me in Copenhagen...

2010-01-24T11:45:00.000-08:00

I am so looking forward to a trip we are planning in July...we'll be starting in Copenhagen, then off to Nykobing and Aalborg in Denmark. My grandmother, who passed away two years ago, was born in Nykobing so it will be amazing to see where I hail from.
We're also heading to Bruges, (did anyone see the film "In Bruges" with Colin Farrell? Give it a watch, if for nothing else to just admire the beauty of Bruges.
We'll be ending our trip in Amsterdam, where I've always wanted to visit. I am over the moon about this, my Aunt Maureen is taking me and my 15 year old daughter Casey (18 and 12 year old girls were not so keen on going, so they will be staying home with Dad) and it should really be a remarkable trip. My relatives had a hotel/restaurant called "Phoenix", and I am anxious to have a current day photo of the building. July seems a far way off!

Just listen to help...

2010-01-19T17:01:00.000-08:00

http://sets.songza.com/set/help-haiti?utm_source=passedlink&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=usershare&utm_term=Set%20-%20Help%20Haiti

http://sets.songza.com/station/YcOT14JqRe0x

We've taken to making charitable contributions to honor those we love for their birthdays, Christmas, etc. One of the charities we donate to is Oxfam America. I won't bore you with the details but I investigate the charities thoroughly before sending funds to them. Oxfam pays their CEO a substantial amount, but is a very highly regarded and ranked organization.

All you need to do in order to have 25 cents donated to Haiti Disaster Relief via Oxfam is click to listen to the music on the link I've pasted here. It's a brilliantly simple means to donate without asking people to make any more of a commitment than clicking and listening.

White Kitchen Shelves

2010-01-09T06:56:00.001-08:00

We have a set of shelves in our kitchen which is so ugly it actually acts as an "ugly magnet" and attracts all the junk, miscellaneous shtuff and unloved bits in the kitchen and displays it like some sort of hideous kitchen mini-museum. I cleared the whole lot two days ago (and found a very attractive $20. bill while doing so) and will now paint the whole thing a lovely white. The original color was kind of a dirty mud tobacco brown. After a dreaded trip to Wal-Mart (or, as my beloved calls it "The Devil's Lair") I came home equipped with: primer, paint, a brush, some nice looking glass jars and a set of storage boxes. The intention is to pretty-up the poor unloved shelves and turn them into an eye catcher instead of the eyesore they've been.
I used the above photos from Country Living as inspiration. Stuck my trust i-Pod on the mini speaker and primed away.

I hereby resolve to...wait, what was it again?

2010-01-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

It's always interesting to me to read other people's New Year resolutions. Sometimes I make a sort of vicarious resolution through someone else's desire to improve something in their life. My husband asked me New Year's Eve if I was going to make any resolutions. Not really was my answer. Not really? In rethinking it, that just sounds so weak. SO, in the vein of joining the rest of the country with taking a step in the right direction, I am making a broad resolution to just try to be better. Whether it's putting things such as laundry (ugh) away in a timely manner (you know, like before it becomes all muddled in with dirty laundry and the whole mess must be re-washed) or a little more patient (oh, the words my poor innocent children's ears have been assaulted with in my auto), or a little more giving (I'd already signed up to cook a community meal at St. James on the 16th-or is it the 17th?) be a little more organized (refer to previous sentence) I'm just going to strive to be...a little better. Here's to a better 2010...

My Sweet Peas

2010-01-01T16:42:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I love these girls. Molly is nearly 18, Casey 15 and Maeve 12. They have brought such happiness to my life, along with a healthy dose of aggravation and a boatload of pride. What can I say...they make me strive to be a better person. If you can see Molly's necklace, she found it on etsy and requested it on her Christmas list. LOVE that! Just wanted to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for how great these girls are and give a shout out to whoever's in charge of these things in the universe. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

White New Year, Blue Moon...

2009-12-31T20:32:00.000-08:00

What a year, what a year! Here are some pics of the past week. The little branch library I work at when I'm not at the Main Library is such a pretty little slice of old fashioned America. It looks nothing short of idyllic when it's got a little powdering of snow on it.
Happy, Happy New Year to all...may 2010 bring you health, happiness and lots of love.

Silver Bells...It's Christmas Time in the City by the Sea...

2009-12-25T10:23:00.000-08:00

Dreaming of a silver Christmas...

Urban Farmhouse

2009-12-17T18:39:00.000-08:00

Love the glitter, love the slipcovers, love the egg wreath. I'm in love. Go to: www.urbanfarmhouse.blogspot.com for a little taste of love...

Christmas in Long Branch...

2009-12-15T16:30:00.000-08:00

Started decorating the outside of the house...still a way to go, lights etc, but we've at least gotten the ball rolling. The "Christmas in Long Branch" sign was brought home the other day from Shutters. The old metal motel chairs are changed to red and black for winter instead of the periwinkle and sea glass colors of the warmer months. Looking at these pictures I see there is still SO much to do!

We love Barney!!!

2009-12-14T06:13:00.000-08:00

Check out Barney Saltzberg's blog: www.barneysaltzberg.com when you get a chance. He is not only ridiculously talented, he's a super nice person. If you've read my blog you know I am his number one fan. (Poor guy!) And if you need to buy Holiday gifts for kids, please allow me to make a suggestion: Get them any of Barney's titles!!! You will be happy you did. Just go to Amazon.com and search Barney's name. And enjoy!!!

p.s. Barney will e-mail you a copy of the "READ" poster above. See his blog for details! His generosity is as great as his books!!

Silver Shoes

2009-12-13T07:43:00.000-08:00

My youngest daughter just outgrew the cutest pair of silver shoes and I thought they'd make a great Christmas deco. I found these images of other silver shoes decking the halls and now just need to decide exactly where to put our pair of twinkle toes.

Simple Color Schemes for Christmas...

2009-12-05T12:15:00.000-08:00

I am loving a simple, classic look for this Christmas. Photos are from Shutters in Fair Haven and the boots are from www.housetohome.uk I think I'll be sticking with silver, white, blue and a touch of black. My daughters are none too happy with this...last year they called the Christmas tree "Mommy's Tree" to let everyone know I instituted an evil plan to ruin their Christmas by decorating to MY liking for once. Today we've been pulling out the decorations and I'm pretty psyched to see how it all comes together!

Tree Topper on a budget...

2009-11-29T15:32:00.000-08:00

The first pic is of anthropologie's mystic tree topper. It better be mystical because they want $387 for it. My friend and arbiter of cool stuff and good taste was pining for it, so...I am doing my best to re-create it. The third pic is where I am now...just some silver eggs and silver cording and possibly some more branches and I will be finished. I'll post the final product when Iget to that point. Hope she likes it. Incidentally I think the entire thing will wind up costing me like $12. Yay me. Sorry, anthro. I love you but...

Thanksgiving Silliness

2009-11-24T21:31:00.000-08:00

Ok, the first photos are obviously of vintage metal yard chairs. The next one is my best friend and I jib-jabbed into being beer swilling First Thanksgiving Participants. She will probably kill me when she sees it, but it will be worth it! We have a face book page devoted to our antics (The Chrissy and Tara Show) and I popped the pic right on there. If you're on facebook feel free to take a look. As long as you're not offended by any of the following: profanity, double entendres, making fun of serious issues...if you're good with that then stop by for a visit.

The last pic is, of course, "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving". I had SUCH a good day at work today...did the "Toddler Time" program in the morning and had an awesome group of toddlers and parents. After we read a few books I put on a really fantastic cd to dance to...eesh, I can't remember the proper name of it but it was put out by Pottery Barn. It had "Shout"-which those babies LOVED, "Surfin Safari", "The Name Game", just an eclectic collection of music. The parents liked it because it was definitely not the treacly, weird high-voiced children's type of cd that makes anyone over the age of 2 run screaming from the room. OK, sorry, back to Charlie Brown...during the afternoon program, for older kids (3-8) we read a few stories then put on the movie and did our craft while it was playing. I noticed that Marci was sitting on a version of a "Motel Chair" during their outside popcorn/pretzel/candy meal. As if I wasn't happy enough making turkey decorations with awesome kids...once that caught my eye I knew it was going to be a good day all around. So, I'm a little obsessed with my chairs...I love/hate looking on e-bay for them as there are always a good amount of them, but they're usually in various states of rust and rot. Well, that's it. Long story, road to nowhere, this is where it ends!

Happy Fakesgiving!

2009-11-22T08:32:00.000-08:00

OK, every year we celebrate Thanksgiving with my family on the Sunday before "Real Thanksgiving". Hence, our Sunday celebration has now been named "Fakesgiving".

The pics above are just because I am in a Thanksgiving decor state of mind...Tina from Cherry Hill Cottage had chenille slips made for her chairs and I am faint with envy. Second pic is from everyone's favorite store on the Shore, Shutters. Christine is genius and I need to get to Fair Haven to visit STAT. The last photo is I believe from Country Living, but I lost the credit along the way, so I can't be held to it. Well, enjoy your Sunday afternoon and...HAPPY FAKESGIVING!!!

Discarded Books get a little love...

2009-11-11T07:33:00.000-08:00

http://www.margilaurin.ca/Site/Altered_Books.html

Awesome use of old books...visit Margi Laurin to see how she gives a second life to those poor, unloved library discards. Discarding books is my LEAST favorite task working at the library.

November...

2009-11-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

I just love this painting. And I love November. And, with any luck, mojo will return! (Thanks, littlebyrd!!)

The Blackberry Briar: Scent Menu: Spice Chest

2009-11-01T11:34:00.000-08:00

The Blackberry Briar: Scent Menu: Spice Chest

Check out Michelle's fantastic array of scents! I will definitely be treating myself to some as well as buying gifts for the upcoming holidays.

Vintage Halloween Postcards

2009-10-27T17:15:00.000-07:00

Enjoy! I'll post some photos of how I use these to decorate for Halloween.

Curious Sofa Diaries...Brilliant Halloween Decorating!

2009-10-24T18:12:00.001-07:00

How fantastic are these scenes? Hurry over and check out www.curioussofa.blogspot.com for some serious inspiration! I just love everything they do!

Friendship

2009-10-16T14:48:00.000-07:00

Stacy, Stacy, Stacy...like the sister I never had.

Getting ready to see Springsteen play Giants Stadium. Kelly, on the left, is my brother's girlfriend. Sandra (grey shirt, right) and I (grey hair, middle) went to high school together.

Chrissy...words can not begin to describe our friendship. We've known each other since she was 5 and I was 7. I love her so!!!

College Scouting in Philly

2009-09-30T20:05:00.000-07:00

Spent last weekend scouting colleges for my eldest daughter who is a senior in high school. The Philadelphia/Bryn Mawr area is just lovely...and only a little over an hour and 1/2 from home. Bryn Mawr and Haverford College are amazingly beautiful. But, as it's her decision-not mine- I kept all opinions to myself. She's a smart girl who's worked hard and I know she'll land where she is supposed to. Borrowing from the Kinks: Here's wishing her the bluest skies...I know tomorrow she'll find better things.

Floral Pillows and Laziness...

2009-09-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

A few floral pillows to soften up the metal porch furniture I recently claimed from the trash would be just lovely...my sewing machine is set up. I have fabric. What is the deal with just not jumping in and making some pillows? I don't know why I always put off doing what isn't even complicated! Maybe I'll just run to Home Goods and see what they have. Since I am officially a lame-o.

Peace to you on this day of remembrance and always...

2009-09-11T15:18:00.001-07:00

Long Branch Jazz and Blues Festival

2009-09-05T19:47:00.000-07:00

Uhm, guess I should've used the flash, but here is my honey and me.

The fireworks were spectacular...Matt O'Ree played as the fireworks were going off.

The top pic (the only good one, really) is a promo picture for "Pier Village" here in Long Branch. The other photos are ones I snapped tonight at the J&B Festival. It was an absolutely gorgeous night, the moon-rise was spectacular and there was a breeze off the ocean. It's only a little over a mile from our house, so we walked. The band pictured is the "Matt O'Ree Band", I used to head to Asbury Park every Wednesday to see them play at "Crossroads". They're awesome! I love living at the Shore!!!

Teresa Sheeley...Genius at Work!

2009-08-30T16:49:00.000-07:00

As a follower of Teresa Sheeley's blog and a window-shopper of her etsy store, I just HAD to share these awesome truck towels with you. I adore these graphics and someday I want to buy myself a big old (and I do mean old) delivery or pick-up to tool around in.

Please check out Teresa's blog and her etsy store: www.teresasheeley.etsy.com You'll be happy you did! Thanks, Teresa, for always being such an inspiration and for creating such amazing art!

Brownie Cookies

2009-08-29T16:50:00.000-07:00

Casey, my 15 year old daughter, had an idea to make "Brownie Cookies". So, she did a little research and came up with these delicious, cakey-fudgy-dense but not too dense delights. She served them with fresh whipped cream and, Lord, they were good. I'll have to ask her for the recipe...

Summertime...

2009-08-22T07:01:00.000-07:00

and the living is easy. Or the living SHOULD be easy! I wouldn't mind being dropped into any of these scenes. The blue picket fence has definitely piqued my interest, it seems like such a fun, carefree touch to a garden!

Kitchen Witch's Wish List...

2009-08-12T21:49:00.000-07:00

We're just about finished with our construction project which added 3 bedrooms and 2 baths to our Craftman's Bungalow. I thought it was all over but the crying, till my brother in law asked when we were going to re-do our kitchen!? So now I've been thinking...no money left for a proper overhaul, but these pictures seem like manageable goals. They're in my fave color schemes, white green and blue, and how can I go wrong with that? Plus there are some GREAT bowls, etc. right now at Anthropologie that will complete this look. So, we'll see what a few gallons of paint, a good sale and some creative re-arranging can do.

Where's the Mojo?

2009-08-10T07:07:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a children's book. It is written, is has two lovely, encouraging rejection letters proudly attached to it, and I've lost my mojo. This is not an illustration from it, just some therapeutic work I threw together to look for that elusive mojo. Patience and consistency, two things I need to work on. Have a great Saturday!

Oh Happy Day...and More Vintage Motel Chairs!!!

2009-08-07T10:34:00.000-07:00

My incredible husband called me from his cell yesterday to tell me....drumroll please...that there was a COMPLETE SET of the metal furniture I collect curbside on a dead end street in a new development a few blocks from our house. He was on a bike ride when he spied this treasure. Needless to say I hauled ass over, took the chairs and table right away then went back today (praying it would still be there) for the glider. I. Am. So. Happy. And grateful for my man!!! Hope your day held happiness for you!!!

Little Surprises All Around...

2009-08-06T01:07:00.000-07:00

While driving to work yesterday in Elberon, we spotted this deer just walking by the roadside. It's funny to see them just a block from the beach.
A few days ago my 14 year old wanted to go shopping, we headed to "The Grove" in Shrewsbury and stumbled across this sweet/funky garden. I love surprises!

"I Want A Dog" new book alert!

2009-07-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

Okay, here's a preview of Barney Saltzberg's new book, which will be out in Fall. Can't wait to lift the flaps and pull the tabs with my toddler groups!!!

Picnic Longing

2009-07-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

Of course I'm in the mood for a picnic today...it's been raining since 5am! I'll have to wait till Thursday anyway, to enjoy my day off and maybe pack a picnic for the beach.

100th post...

2009-07-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

Bloggers seem to like to commemorate numerical milestones...so, for this, my 100th post, I will be giving away one of my little zippered postcard pouches. Just leave a comment and you may be randomly chosen to win a lil bag. Thanks for reading, it is appreciated!

Glory Days...

2009-07-15T19:30:00.001-07:00

I know this is not a very good picture, but after poor Michael Jackson's untimely death, I asked my friend Jim about Michael. Jim was Springsteen's personal manager for over 10 years and during "We Are The World" they saw a good deal of Michael. He has fond memories of the decidedly offbeat MJ. This was the only photo of the three of them that I found, it had no photo credit so I'm not certain who took it.

I'm working for Jim at the Beach Club currently, hard to believe I've now known him for half my life...those babies of his that I looked after for so long are now grown up...2 in college, 1 in the "real world". God, how time flies. I worked at Springsteen's for a few years, after Bruce and Julianne's marriage broke up and when he and Patti first got together, then had their first child, then married. Life really is like a Springsteen song...don't you think?

WritersRelief.com

2009-07-13T20:00:00.000-07:00

Check out "writersrelief.com" if you write, want to write, have aspirations to write...

Beach Club

2009-07-10T17:49:00.001-07:00

This is where I've been spending my days off from the library. I've been bartending at "Promenade Beach Club" here in Long Branch, NJ. Not a bad way to make a buck! Some people who belong there I've known for more than 20 years, it's interesting to see them and find out what's going on in their lives. A couple came in last weekend and recognized me from working at another beach club, in Sea Bright, and were amazed that I remembered their children's names more than 10 years after I'd last seen them.
Hopefully our sunny weather will continue!
Here's a fun little drink for a cloudless day:

Malibu Barbie:
1 oz. Malibu rum

1 oz. Absolut citron

1oz. sour mix

Combine first three ingredients in shaker, strain, pour over ice

Top with Sprite or 7-up

Hit with a splash of cranberry

Garnish with a slice of lemon

*Can also rim the glass with pink sugar for extra "Barbieness"
Now take it down to the sand and...relax!!!

Get Creative at Your Library!

2009-07-09T07:31:00.000-07:00

Each year our Summer Reading Club has a theme...this year it is "Get Creative at Your Library". We have a little karaoke stage set up, a play kitchen, dress up chest and of course a tea party table. Here I am with one of my favorite library patrons, Zoey. She is an absolute sunbeam of a child and I've been lucky enough to know her for her entire life.

Babies and Firecrackers...

2009-07-03T17:38:00.000-07:00

with a few "Babes" thrown in for good measure. Have a happy, fun and safe 4th of July. I'll be bartending away all weekend but I'll be able to see the fireworks from the bar, so it's a win-win deal.

Blue and White, White and Blue...

2009-06-27T09:20:00.000-07:00

...call me boring but I find these palettes so soothing and lovely. Maybe someday I'll step out of the white, cream and blue box.

Mystery Fix...

2009-06-26T16:59:00.000-07:00

I love a mystery book. Just finished "The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie" by Alan Bradley and really enjoyed it...it's narrated by an 11 year old girl in post was London and it was just a fun, witty read.

I've been putting together a list of book recommendations for the library, as people frequently ask me for suggestions and I absolutely LOVE when I make a good match! I think I'll post my list here when I'm done...not a lot of mainstream books on the list, but that makes it all the more interesting. Have a wonderful weekend! And let me know what you're reading now and what you'd like to read.

Beach Reading...

2009-06-21T11:36:00.000-07:00

This was SUPPOSED to be me this week. I took an entire week off from work and planned on lounging at the beach, book in hand, the entire time. Who knew it would rain EVERY SINGLE DAY??? I am enjoying the book "The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie" currently but it would be even better with some sand in it!
Other than that I did enjoy a lovely week of pure leisure. My girls finished school for Summer Break Friday and that always takes a lot of pressure off all of us...no early mornings, softball, band, etc. etc.
Here's to a wonderful, calm, happy, healthy Summer!

Dreamy

2009-06-17T07:57:00.000-07:00

Dreamy, sandy, beachy days...

Artist Robert Rahway Zakanitch

2009-06-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

Robert Rahway Zakanitch is my good friend Deb's cousin. His work is so incredibly varied...he's illustrated two children's books, created the theater curtain pictured above, has had various gallery/museum shows...just amazing! His textile paintings are so beautiful, I'm really enamored of his work.

On another note, I'm off from the Library this week...and the sun has finally shown her face. I am looking forward to doing a whole lot of nothing and now I can do some of it outside!!! Stack of books, here I come.

Atlantic and Ocean

2009-06-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Another Hunter McKee, this one on Atlantic Avenue in Long Branch. We lived right by these buildings for 10 years, my husband went to the barber shop which lived in the left hand storefront. The other side has been home to a few ventures over the past several years...a gourmet shop (delicious, short-lived), some sort of tech place (very short-lived) and it is now a surf shop which, as the ocean is directly to the left of these buildings and a new skate park has popped up behind them, may actually make it. There was a fantastic century old general store to the right of this set, but the moron who owned it knocked it down last year.

Sea Bright, NJ streetscape

2009-06-10T05:17:00.000-07:00

This is a painting by Hunter McKee . Sea Bright is the most interesting, unique little town. It's on a kind of barrier strip, sandwiched between the Atlantic and the Shrewsbury River. There's everything from a really old fashioned hardware store to an upscale restaurant owned by Matt Bon Jovi. This painting is of a quiet little side street, unremarkable yet appealing.

Rain, Rain, Go Away

2009-06-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

Ok, today it's been raining like it will never end, but TOMORROW is supposed to be sunny, warm and gorgeous!!! I picked up a week-end bartending job for the summer at the Beach Club I used to go to, so good weather equals good money. Hope your week-end is wonderful!

By the Beautiful Sea

2009-05-20T19:00:00.000-07:00

By the Sea, by the Sea, by the Beautiful Sea. Don't miss the MOTEL CHAIRS in the first pic. Love the simple lines and color schemes.

Hoboken

2009-05-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

Hoboken...the town no one used to want to live in is now the town TO live in! My brother and sister in law had a penthouse right on the river, it was phenomenal. Incredible Manhattan view, a ferry 5 minutes away, and the fact that Hoboken itself has become such a great place to hang out!

Little Things

2009-05-18T06:31:00.000-07:00

Just love the magical inscription on these porch steps (dare I even attempt such a thing?) and the loveliness which is a few simple flowers put in a milk bottle. Oh, the little things that make us happy...

English Seaside Dreams

2009-05-17T08:17:00.000-07:00

Not sure why I'm obsessing over the English Seaside lately, especially since I live within walking distance to the Jersey Seaside, but it has such a different feel, no? There's something dream like about it, at least to my addled brain.
Did you notice the beach hut slipcovered chair in the third photo?
And the last one is of Blackpool Tower, I believe.

Lucky Library Girl, Thanks Mary Beth!

2009-05-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

I LOVE coming to work and never in my wildest dreams thought I'd ever find a job which brings me so much happiness. I am separating the actual job from the politics which go on behine the scenes, those are no fun whatsoever and have caused me much UNhappiness. Which is why I'll take working with children any day over cranky ol' grown ups. Just for the record, I'll list some of the jobs I've held in the past:
1. Slave to upper East Side society woman-not enjoyable AT ALL but has given me plenty of material with which to amuse friends and family.

2. Waitress (not the best waitress you'll ever have, but managed to be amusing)

3. Front Desk/Office worker at a private beach club in Sea Bright NJ

4. Cleaning lady for the general population.

5. Cleaning lady/general house care for famous rock star.

6. Sales Coordinator at Dow Jones Financial Publishing

7. Receptionist at medical spa...job perks included free botox and hair removal laser. Doesn't get much better than that.

8. Library Assistant. My friend Mary Beth should get credit for this decision. She always told me I should work in a library. She graduated like 8th in our class. I graduated like 208th. I should've listened to Mare years ago!
9. This summer, I'll be adding Bartender to this list. Weekends will find me tending bar at a beach club in Long Branch.

***

The photos above are the of the Children's Room and exterior at the Branch Library I'm at 3 days a week. How could you not want to settle in for story time with those children? Seriously. I feel so lucky. Thanks, Mary Beth! You were right. I should work in a library!

New Jersey State Library...

2009-05-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

My Barney Saltzberg story has made the New Jersey State Library Marketing News blog. I just love when good things happen!!!

http://nancydowd.wordpress.com/

Barney Saltzberg, my new hero

2009-05-11T11:11:00.000-07:00

I evaluated Barney Saltzberg's book, "Cornelius P. Mud, Are You Ready For Baby?" for the Central Jersey Regional Library Cooperative. What a gem! I actually laughed aloud, which does happen occasionally but is still a notable response. This book hits new siblinghood right on the head. You must read it to see what I mean. I have long admired his books, they are just amazingly attuned to childhood, its trials and travails! So, I looked up Mr. Saltzberg's website, saw he has a blog, and left a comment on it. Lo and behold, the phone rings up here in the Children's Room of the Library, and it is Mr. Saltzberg. We had a great chat, hopefully I'll get to touch base again with him in the future.

To someone who reads children's books for a living, these moments are rock-star, Ben & Jerry's, over the moon, glow for a week wonderful.
May I suggest you, too, check out Mr. Saltzberg's work? http://www.barneysaltzberg.com/. You won't be disappointed. Unless, of course, you have no recollection of childhood, or you don't like children, or you think funny things should be illegal. Otherwise, I KNOW you will love Barney Saltzberg. More to follow with this story...

Vintage Motel Chairs

2009-05-10T15:55:00.000-07:00

Spent Mother's Day painting the lavender and light green chairs. These chairs are my absolute downfall. I cannot bear to drive past one and not stop, jump out of my car and throw it on in to take home with me. MUCH to the chagrin of my 3 daughters ("Can you please not do this while we're in the car!") and my husband ("What exactly are you planning on doing with all these chairs?"). I have about 18 of these at this point, plus a double glider which needs a little repair.

Spent yesterday painting our front steps a periwinkle color...the neighbors commented favorably, I think, ("Looks great. Very...you.") The house has been a work in progress, over the past year and a half we added 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. So I'm finally getting around to all the garden planning/exterior colors which had been put on hold till the project was finished. I feel utter gratitude that we were able to do this, no whining about the contracting process from me.

Also, the first photo is not my yard, it's just my plan for my yard. Loving the border of plates! And, of course, the metal motel chair. Can't remember where I cribbed the picture from, sorry to not give credit where it is due!

OK, I gave in...

2009-05-10T09:50:00.000-07:00

and put a playlist on here. Sorry, just could NOT help myself!!!

What can I say? There's no defense.

2009-05-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Just some more snippets from my imaginary home...how great are those stools at the kitchen island?

It's Only A Paper Moon...

2009-05-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

...sailing over a cardboard sea...

Feeling so melancholic tonight. Wonder what that's about?

Say, its only a paper moon

Sailing over a cardboard sea

But it wouldn't be make-believe

If you believed in me

Yes, it's only a canvas sky

Hanging over a muslin tree

But it wouldn't be make-believe

If you believed in me

Without your love

It's a honky-tonk parade

Without your love

It's a melody played in a penny arcade

It's a Barnum and Bailey world

Just as phony as it can be

But it wouldn't be make-believe

If you believed in me

What great lyrics.

Unazukin

2009-05-02T21:03:00.001-07:00

OK, don't know exactly what it is about these little Unazukin, but I am wild about them. Reminiscient of Matryoshka dolls, they're just so...perfect! The last one is rigged to be added to a cell phone. Hmmm. Enjoy!

{The Cottage Nest}: Get Out the Vote

2009-05-01T14:34:00.000-07:00

{The Cottage Nest}: Get Out the Vote
Just LOVE this charming potting bench Jen Kershner designed...check out The Cottage Nest and then the BHG Challenge to vote for her! Good Luck, Jen.

Oh, Those Pensive Hopper Women...

2009-04-29T17:43:00.000-07:00

Mmmmmmm.

Sit Awhile...

2009-04-28T09:23:00.000-07:00

Two very different reading spots. Or thinking spots. Or resting spots. Or...

Beach Huts Redux

2009-04-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

Clearly I've got beach huts on the brain. What can I say? It was over 80 degrees this weekend, the ocean smelled great and I'm SO ready for summer. Check out the website for lots of quaint Seaside treats.

http://www.beachhut.co.uk/home

Blue Mood

2009-04-25T21:42:00.000-07:00

I adore the loosely slipcovered wing chair in the last photo...with my limited sewing skills I wonder if I could handle something like that.

Good Frienergy

2009-04-24T20:10:00.000-07:00

Here's to good friends...Amy, this one is for you. A cozy spot, a cup of tea, a sunny window and happiness galore. Thanks for hosting me tonight! It's always a happy occasion when I get to see you.

Down The Shore Everything's All Right...

2009-04-24T04:51:00.000-07:00

This is the "Great Auditorium in Ocean Grove. There was a vintage postcard/ephemera show there last weekend. There will be another one in August, there is always a great collection of everything from hard to find postcards (of course my favorites are always well priced as I PREFER them to have been written on and sent) to curious little knick knacks. *In a post from a few weeks ago there is a postcard posted of this basic shot. You can see how well the Auditorium has been preserved.

The Tents prior to being covered and opened for the season. They look naked this way, but I love the way they seem to be waiting for their people to come back...

Just a few of the homes on Ocean Pathway. The Atlantic is just beyond the last home on the right...(there is a street, then the boardwalk, then the gorgeous Ocean Grove beach).

The Asbury Park Power Station...the famed Carousel building is barely visible, the domed roof on the left. The Casino is on the far right, they've stripped it down to its bones and are going to rebuild it.

Ah, the Wonder Bar. The beach is across the street and the Berkely Carteret Hotel is in the background. And there's poor Tillie, smiling like a fool. The Wonder Bar was supposed to have closed last year and been demolished, but was granted a reprieve of some sort. I do love a divey gin mill with live music.
I realize these photos are less than stellar, but it was one of the first nice days down here and we decided to just walk aimlessly around the Ocean Grove/Asbury area.

Etsy

2009-04-23T13:08:00.000-07:00

All about Etsy...Thank you House Beautiful! I love HB for two reasons...the paint swatches in the beginning of the magazine and the dopey questions they pose to decorators on the very last page. Who knew they were etsy fans??? Go, HB!

London House on a silk pillow...bridgetdavies.etsy.com a silk pillow with a herringbone sidewalk. Love this!

Lampshade
Artist Warren Beisher' s engaging drawings of Brooklyn, reproduced on lampshades. $130, Brooklyn, NY, identitytank.etsy.com

Vase
The cottage cutout gives this a home-sweet-home charm. $38, Burlingame, CA, prettyrandomobjects.etsy.com

littlefishfurniture.etsy.com has this book shelf...yes, a real live book shelf.

Beach Huts

2009-04-21T09:38:00.000-07:00

Ok, obsession of the day... Beach Huts!

Rose colored glasses...

2009-04-20T11:46:00.000-07:00

Just some feel-good, Spring pix. Wish I was lounging (book in hand of course) on the bed in the first pic. I am going to put in for a few days off and hope I hit a day or two like these!!!

And Now, A Few Words From Miss Tara...

2009-04-19T17:51:00.000-07:00

My Life at The Library...

I read children's books for a living. No, not as an editor or publisher, I read children's books to children. My audience is both appreciative and opinionated. They are fearless in showing both their love and their disdain. Tough crowd.

In addition to the young reader/listeners, ranging in age from 1-8, I adore the 9-12 readers. Especially the ones who claim to "hate reading". A lot of times they've felt forced (in school) to read books that don't interest them at all so they don't even recognize reading as a positive experience. That's not easy to overcome, their attitude has been tainted and they can't imagine reading for enjoyment, all they know is they don't WANT to read.

It always breaks my heart a little bit when parents size up a child's book choice and comes out with something like, "Whaddaya reading that for? It's a baby book. It's too easy for you." Well, maybe it is. And why is that any of our adult business? Maybe it was a tough day at school. Maybe someone wasn't kind. Maybe a "baby book" has been sought out for comfort. Maybe a challenging book isn't what's called for at this moment. Let them read what they want, when it's for enjoyment. They'll seek out more words, more pages, more authors when the time is right.

My favorite way to match a book to a reader is to just ask them to read the first page. That's all. That's all??? they ask. That's all I answer. Then, at the end of the first page I'll ask, "Do you want to know more about this story?" and if they do, great. If not, we try again. There's a book for everyone, we just have to find it. This simple trick has worked for me time and again, whether it's a reticent 8 year old or an absolutely criminal (and that's not over stating a fact) 15 year old, I've found success with the "first page" test.

I am over the moon with the news that Vanessa B. Newton's book, "Let Freedom Ring" will be published soon! Can't wait to see it on our shelves. I'm already planning a children's program around it...check out her blog to find out more.

http://oohlaladesignstudio.blogspot.com/

I came across Vanessa's blog and was instantly smitten. Her work grabbed me as soon as I lay my eyes on it. Honestly, I see thousands of books a day, but I've learned to know a good thing when I see it. And Vanessa and her art? They are very good things. Here's to you, Divine Miss V.!