Imaginary Fiction.

Summertime Blues

2012-02-09T07:30:00.000-08:00

While surfing through some blogs yesterday morning, I stumbled upon this post by The Dainty Squid. And then it hit me: I miss Summer. I miss it a lot. So after taking a cue from her, I went through some of my old summer pictures and my heart literally ached. I'm a big supporter of sunshine and it makes me sad when I wake up and it's gray and overcast. Those are the days I wear a lot of color, trying to brighten up my day (and anyone elses!).

I decided to post some of my favorite pictures from summer. I don't think these pictures have been seen before (by my readers) because I don't think I was blogging at the time, so if that's the case, you'll be seeing these for the first time!

It's coming up so quickly! I feel as if I need to start making lists to be sure I take advantage of it!

Sneak Peek!

2012-02-08T06:03:00.000-08:00

Well, as I mentioned in this post, I moved! It was nothing drastic, just me & my roomies moving downstairs into a much bigger apartment. I got my own room in this apartment and so far, it's been really nice. I am a little worried I won't see them often, but maybe I'll make a point of coming out of my little hidey-hole to say 'hello.'

It's a little messy right now, which is why I don't have a picture of the entire room because the floor is just one huge catchall right now for everything I can think of, including my body (I like to lay on the floor on my laptop).

There is a lot more natural light, which I've mentioned as well, but I'm just so happy about it! I love waking up to the sunshine. It makes me excited to get up and get moving.

How do you guys feel about natural light?

2012-02-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

I decided today that I would post a little update on my life at the moment just to keep anyone who actually reads this up-to-date on my current happenings.

Right now it's February and I have less than a month to prepare for my senior show. For those of you who don't know (and I can't remember if I ever talked about it on here or not), I am an Visual Arts major and I have a senior show coming up.

It's a huge deal for any art major because it's a chance to get your name out there and a chance to finally show the type of work you want to.

I'm excited and super super nervous about all of it. I have a lot yet to do and not enough finances right now. But it's ok! I'm remaining positive and I know that it's all going to come together in the end. Hopefully the struggles I have help me appreciate this experience even more!

Other than the show, I've just been going through the motions with my regular gen ed classes and figuring out how to get things started! Being a senior (for me, at least) has required a lot of soul-searchy type of questions which makes me think of this....

But these are coming at a good time because it's showing me what I want to do with my life after graduation.

I think that's about it for this bloggy update. I hope everyone has a fantastic Tuesday! Try to stay positive through this crappy weather, for sure!

2012-02-06T08:35:00.000-08:00

This Music Monday features a mix! Straight from me to you, I give you a smattering of songs that are true & tested. Well, at least true & tested for this spring 2012!
I hope you enjoy the songs!

what songs do you guys like listening to in the Spring time?

2012-02-03T06:07:00.000-08:00

ultimate hair-envy for sure!

(via sore lungs)

this picture inspires me so much for the things I want to do/see in the summer. I can't wait!

(via devicfotos)

I love the design work on this and also the quote. I'm a firm believer in the whole 'hard work pays off.'

(via studiomuti)

This picture is evidence that I need my own place so I can do things like this! I'm swooning over this kitchen!

(via carliearmstrong)

just another prime example of wanting my own place! The natural lighting is perfection in this house!

(via decor8)

I MUST taste this! Some way, some how!

(via foreverflourishing)

Link Love!

* this lovely advice for life post. I fully intend on incorporating a few of these into my everyday life.

* this song! I don't know what it is about her, but I'm seriously loving it all.

I think that's about it for this Friday Favorites! I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend! I have so much planned this weekend and I'm loving it, but also kind of scared. haha!

2012-02-02T06:38:00.000-08:00

Featuring Jenyffer Maria!

1. List 5 things that inspire you.

Nostalgia, pop culture, magic, science fiction, and travel.

2. When did you realize you wanted to start selling your work?

It took a very long time for me to even consider selling my stuff, to be honest, it still feels sort of weird. I'm not one that keeps what I do. Once I'm done I have to rid myself of it--my family & friends can vouch for that. If I was well off I would probably still be giving away my work. Thanks to the internet, I've gathered the most beautiful and diverse following, that's when I realized there was no way I could afford shipping and materials if I kept it free--especially internationally. As interest in my work grew, I opened up shop and here I am.

3. Whats your favorite part of being an illustrator?

It's my form of communication and story telling. I am garbage at talking to people, an absolute awkward mess that most of the time comes off intimidating and rude. I've always been a visual person, it's not about what you hear, but what you see with me.

It also keeps me young. Since I can remember I've been sitting down and drawing whatever I was thinking or liking at that very moment. It still gives me the same excitement as it did when I was a kid.

4. What's your favorite medium to work with (i.e. paint, markers, crayons)?

All of the above! I'll experiment or improvise with anything I can afford or get my hands on. I do love me some ink though!

5. How does it make you feel when someone purchases / commissions you for work?

It still blows my mind. I'm close to hitting my 300th sale on my shop and it just doesn't process in my head. I get extremely dorky over international sales especially because although I may never make my way to these places physically, a piece of me has. It's one of the most amazing feelings ever.

6. Does it ever feel weird to think that people will have your pictures with them forever?

Absolutely! But the good kind of weird! Like I mentioned, it's my form of communication and such an intimate process really--each and every single line is a piece of myself. They're not people to me, they become my acquaintances--friends even.

7. Who has inspired you most in your life?

This is such a tough question because so many people, both real and fictional, have inspired me to be the person that I am. I will note that my mother is one hell of a woman. I am 24 years old and I have yet to hear a repeat story from her. It's almost unfair to think that I've been exposed to her presence my whole life and others haven't.

8. What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone who wanted to start illustrating?

Have fun. Really, the second it feels like a burden--you've clearly messed up. It takes patience, practice, and a tough heart--especially if you want to be able to feed yourself from it. Again, have fun. Don't be shy to share even if it brings negativity (that's where the tough heart comes in handy).

If you're having fun and love what you're doing, that's all that really matters. My work was never accepted into any student art shows when I attended school. I don't even want to picture what my life would be like right now if I had let that get to me.

9. What's your favorite thing to do in your spare time?

Reading, definitely. I've been so busy lately I haven't had the chance to just shut the world around me and curl up with a book. I've had to resort to audiobooks for multitasking purposes (I watch tv while I draw so that doesn't really count). Traveling too! That involves both spare time AND money but when they coincide, that's the ultimate. If I don't board a plane or spend at least 8 hours in a rental car a year, it's been a complete waste.

Oh, I also try & fit in a decent dosage of video games.

10. Do you want to continue doing this forever?

I can't imagine my life without some sort of artsy outlet. Even after death, my hauntings will be super creative.

How amazing is this artwork? I'm totally swooning over the Doctor Who and River Song drawing!

Check her out @:

tumblr / etsy / facebook / flickr

Special thanks to Jenyffer for taking the time to answer my questions!

It's the little things...

2012-02-01T07:06:00.000-08:00

Like finding a few old developed pictures from two summers ago!

(how cool is that ghosting effect in the second picture?)

What I Wore:

2012-01-31T09:16:00.000-08:00

Finally! Another outfit post! I apologize for the lack of posting but sometimes, as a blogger, I feel like interesting things don't always happen. So sometimes, my blogging slacks because nothing happens that's worth blogging about.

Going off of that though, I am trying to learn how to see or find something interesting about everyday, because let's be honest, when you really try, there are tons of interesting things happening, regardless of whether or not it's "blog worthy."

So let's see, today is beautiful because it's almost 60 degrees outside! I know I'm jumping the seasonal gun when I say, "Spring is here!" (i wish!) Even though it feels like Spring (and I can smell it in the air!), I'm still wearing a cardigan and sweater tights!

Also, do you notice that my pictures are being taken somewhere else?? My roommates and I got moved in a much larger apartment and it's wonderful. There is so much natural light in my room and it makes me so happy!

head to toe:

cardigan : gifted from a friend

dress : I heart Ronson for jc penny

tights : unknown

belt : thrifted

brooch : thrifted

Here's to wishing for warmer weather and more sun shiny days!

Have a great Tuesday! (also, for all my lana del rey fans, happy release of her first CD!)

xo Bethany

2012-01-30T10:46:00.000-08:00

Just this past Friday, I had an awesome night with my BFF Heather where we just enjoyed each other's company and brainstormed ideas for what we needed to do during the summer and spring. We also spent some time writing our top 10 favorite songs of all time which turned out to be really hard!

But I decided that I would share my top 10 favorites songs of all time and give you guys a glimpse into a few songs that I've always loved. These are songs that I've loved for years & whenever I hear them I get happy and life feels good again. I may leave these songs for awhile and not be able to listen to them, but they always seem to come back into my life right when I need them. So here we go!

I hope you enjoy these songs as much as I do!
Have a great Monday!

xo Bethany

2012-01-23T07:22:00.000-08:00

This Music Monday features Soko! A long long time ago I (okay, I was only 17) remember listening to Soko and being in love with her! Shortly thereafter, she fell off the face of the earth and I hadn't heard anything about her for so long! The excitement I feel when I hear that a new musician I love has a new CD coming out is something that can't be compared to any other excitement to me. I love it!

I hope you guys enjoy her music as much as I do and be sure to keep an eye out for her new album "I Thought I was an Alien" out February 20th!

Movie Review : The Tree of Life

2012-01-18T10:24:00.000-08:00

I know this isn't a new new movie, but my campus put it on and it has been on my list of movies to watch for awhile, so I found the opportunity irresistible.

A few things to note about this movie : it is not for everyone. Some people love it and some people hate it. (I personally, loved it.) The entire movie is low on dialogue and big on scenic shots of nature and waterfalls and the cosmos.

I feel like the entire movie can be interpreted in so many different ways so this is just my personal opinion and my interpretation of the film and I know that my interpretation may vary from someone else's. As a person of faith, I found the movie asking a lot of the questions that I've asked God before : "Why do bad things happen? How am I supposed to be good when there is bad?"

These questions are asked by the characters but are voiced over shots of nature and shots of the cosmos. I felt that the entire film is one big beautiful reminder to how life is beautiful even through the bad things and that sometimes there are questions that remain unanswered, which is hard to deal with sometimes.

The movie follows a Midwestern family as they struggle through life and struggle to deal with issues of anger while the three sons they have grow up and rebel and it loosely follows the oldest son as he deals with the death of his younger brother.

All-in-all, even if you can tell you won't like this kind of movie, I would watch just for the beautiful cinematography. I've never seen shots quite like that before in a film and some of the scenes just took my breath away.

For anyone who's seen this movie, what did you guys think?

xo Bethany

2012-01-17T05:55:00.000-08:00

Well, last Friday was my 22nd Birthday! I can't believe it, honestly. I feel like from about 19 to now has just flown by so quickly. I'm a senior now fastly approaching my spring and final semester of college. So so strange. College feels longer than high school but it's weird how it's all gone by in the blink of a well-educated eye.

But anyways! The purpose of this post wasn't to get all sappy about being older (we'll save that for a later date), this post was about showing you guys some pictures I took over the summer using disposable cameras that I haven't gotten developed until now. I still have one more roll of film to get developed so stay tuned for that sometime soon!

Over the summer, my dad & I traveled to a lot of little towns in Indiana. We never planned to go these places until we were already driving. It was really a lot of fun and I feel like those times kind of made my summer the best it could be: the hot summer air, windows down, open highway and thrifting adventures in new towns.

I experienced my first Renaissance Faire over the summer and went to this really huge Amish town where I found this amazing garden, full of tea leaves and flowers of all kinds, where I snuck pictures (no pictures allowed! Who does that anymore??) .

I'm stuck in nostalgia mode now and now I'm really antsy to see the other film developed. Hopefully I get on the ball and get that to a developing center soon!

Do you guys have any awesome unplanned summer memories?

Bethany

Music Monday.

2012-01-16T13:48:00.000-08:00

I'm so so sorry for the uber late post today, but it's been kind of hectic and I haven't had time to sit down and create a post until just this evening.
This Music Monday features a mix of about 15 songs of my personal favorites as of late.
These are songs that I've been listening to a lot in the last few months and I thought I'd give you guys a glimpse into my musical musings. Hopefully I haven't repeated any since the last Music Monday and you guys can enjoy a new line-up of songs!

Here is a quick screenshot of the list of songs:

(click for larger view)

*please remember that this download is for you to discover new artists and support them.

Click here to download.

Everyone have a great Monday evening!

2012-01-12T06:12:00.000-08:00

The pictures above are just some crochet projects I've been working on for awhile. That blanket, which I've posted about before, is coming together nicely and hopefully I'll get it done sometime in January and I can finally show you the finished product.

So far, this January Term has been very quiet and I've been looking for things to fill my time and these projects are what I have been doing. :)

For some reason though, the blankets I make always end up too small. I want to make one that's big enough to cover an entire bed and I realized the other day that all the afghans I own (from thrift stores) are small too! Like, as in shawl small, not 'keep you warm' small. It's weird! Perhaps everyone starts off and then realizes it's hard work? I don't know. haha!

I hope everyone has a great Thursday and GUESS WHAT??!? Tomorrow is my birthday!!!

Inspiration.

2012-01-11T06:15:00.000-08:00

01 / 02 / 03 / 04 / 05 / 06

I decided to create this post of inspiring quotes because this week, thus far, has been a little difficult and it's been hard to stay inspired to work on things. To anyone who else is suffering through this week (so far), have a great day and remember to stay positive and things will always get better.

Weekly Wears.

2012-01-10T05:09:00.000-08:00

...wait, it's January, right? But I'm not complaining. I'd much rather walk around campus with confidence in the fact that my foot won't step on black ice and I'll tumble to my embarrassing death (it's a legitimate fear!).

I've always heard that you're not supposed to mix denim with denim, but I can't resist this styling. It's like a match made in perfect rustic heaven and I love this look. It's just so nice & comfortable and effortlessly stylish, which is a look I'd love to always achieve.

I just wish I had a pair of Clarks or some oxfords and I think my look would've been set. :)

Head to Toe:

scarf : unknown

denim button up : thrifted

spoon brooch : gift from my Mom for Christmas!

pants : JCP

How do you guys feel about clothing "myths"? (i.e. no white after labor day, no denim on denim) Fashion faux pas or tres chic?

xo Bethany

Music Monday.

2012-01-09T05:48:00.000-08:00

So I decided to go a different route with this week's Music Monday. It's just a random mix I put together featuring Timbre, Nick Drake, Radiohead and others. It's just a mix of music that I've been listening to kind of a lot this winter season.

click here to download

What songs have you guys been listening to this winter?

2012-01-06T05:59:00.000-08:00

I have been searching so hardcore for a house-shaped shadow box! I'm mighty jealous of this one, for sure.

(via)

This house used to be a small church! It looks so beautiful, seriously!

(via)

This Beauty & The Beast apron is one of the most amazing things I've come across this week. I found it on a forum, so I don't know if they're real or not, but man, I hope they are!

(via)

super simple DIY for some pretty rustic looking candle holders! I may have to try this the next time I'm at home!

(via)

super adorable style via star crow.

I hope everyone has a great Friday! I'm hoping to start working on a more clean and organized design on my blog this weekend so be sure to check back Monday! Everyone have fun and do something unexpected this weekend--if you do, let me know about it. I'd love to read it. :)

What I Wore:

2012-01-05T06:30:00.000-08:00

Good Morning readers! So I am presently taking my Math (ew) January Term class and for the past few days I've been getting up scarily early, like 6:30 early. My class isn't until 11! I'm telling you all of this because with me getting up that early, I've been getting a lot done in the mornings. I eat breakfast, do some yoga, take a shower and get dressed and even have time to kill!

I used that extra time this morning to take these pictures and edit and post them. It's strange for me because I normally do it the night before or a few days before I decide to post it. But whatevs. :P

Head to Toe:

scarf : unknown

dress: H&M

cardigan : thrifted

leggings : Target

Does anyone else ever feel awkward taking outfit pictures?

Have a great Thursday! It's almost the weekend! yay!

Artist Series:

2012-01-04T07:13:00.000-08:00

Rusty Cuts

I came across Rusty Cuts clothing when I was parousing through Tumblr one day and I was so impressed with the beautiful design and creativity of it all. I'm always somewhat enamored of people who can sew amazing clothing. It's always been something I wanted to learn but haven't gotten around to it...yet.

So I'm bringing in the new year with an interview with Rusty Cuts herself!

1. List 5 things that inspire you:

* the 1940s and 50s

* the Wild West

* my friends

* hand-drawn fonts and lettering

* Exene from the band X

2. List your top 5 favorite albums / books:

Hmmm, this is hard. They change all the time, but for albums, I'd say (in no particular order):

X-Los Angeles.

Motorhead-Ace of Spades.

Pere Ubu-The Modern Dance.

Velvet Underground - White Light/White Heat.

Black Sabbath - Black Sabbath.

For books:

Sylvia Plath-The Bell Jar.

Richard Brautigan-The Hawkline Monster.

Patti Smith-Just Kids

Kurt Vonnegut-Breakfast of Champions.

and if I'm allowed to choose a picture book, it'd be Cigarette Pack Art, which is the packaging design of cigarettes from the 1920s to 1980s. So awesome, and such amazing lettering!

3. What inspired you to get started in making clothes & selling vintage clothes?

Well, I started sewing when I was in 2nd grade. My mom signed me up for sewing lessons, and I ended up loving it. I started making stuff from my own patterns and recycled fabric when I was in high school. and eventually I had sooo much vintage that I realized I'd have to start selling it (or move into a mansion with 5 closets!)...I can't stop thrifting but I'm just not allowed to have any more clothes.

4. What's something that your followers might not know about you?

That I'm obsessed with the Coen Brothers' remake of True Grit and that I saw it in theaters 3 times! The girl is so aesome and for the last year I've dressed Western! I have a lottt of snap up shirts and bolo ties now.

5. What keeps you going / motivated / inspired?

Sometimes it's hard because I have a full-time job and I do this on the side. But I always get motivated when I think about how this could someday be my full-time job. Being self-employed is a dream.

6. What's your favorite part of being a seamstress?

My favorite part is probably having full control over what I make. I can put whatever fabrics together in whatever way I'd like. And if I see some clothes I like, I can often recreate them, which is awesome!

7. How does it make you feel when someone purchases your work?

I get super stoked when people like my stuff. One time I saw someone wearing a backpack I'd made, which was so cool. I'm pretty shy, but I went up to her and told her I'd made it. She was really nice and I was really awkward, but all in all, it went over well.

8. Who / What has inspired you most in your life?

My friends. They're all really creative whether they're artists or musicians or what have you. They're always showing me new things and inspiring me to do things I might be kind of scared to do.

9. Do you want to continue you doing this forever?

Hell yeah!

10. Strange question but, do you have a favorite type of pattern?

Grey and Black stripes. I have three pairs of grey and black striped pants, one skirt and one shirt. Brown and black stripes are pretty good too. Stripes in general. My hair is even striped. Red with white stripes. Like bacon.

Links:

blogspot / flickr / etsy

Special thanks to Rusty Cuts for taking the time to answer my questions! Everyone definitely go check out her work by following the links above!

Resolutions.

2012-01-03T06:42:00.000-08:00

So I mentioned yesterday that I'd post about some of my resolutions because, yes, I am one of those corny people who make resolutions. My favorite thing to do is write lists and make goals. Even if they never get completed, I always feel it's a good idea to just have goals and resolutions so you can see what you want most out of life and goals, lists and resolutions always help to keep me inspired: inspired for life and inspired for the future.

Resolution # 1 - watch movies from this list that I found on IMDB.

I'm a big movie buff and this is a good resolution to have with someone else because you can plan movie parties and watch movies you both haven't seen before!

Resolution # 2 - read 15 new books.

I love reading and I felt that this was a pretty reachable goal. But truth be told, I'll probably end up reading more than 15. I don't have a list of books to read yet, so do any of my readers have some amazing books to recommend?

Resolution # 3 - Begin taking Yoga more seriously.

Yoga is something I got into last year but I want to take it more seriously this year and get involved in some classes in my town. It's so relaxing and helps a lot with anxiety and I can't wait to learn more about it.

Resolution # 4 - Take a road trip to visit a few friends this summer.

This is something I feel like I need to do, especially after I graduate from college. I just want to take a nice road trip by myself with lots of CD's and lots of pictures.

Resolution #5 - Stop being idle.

Sometimes, I catch myself sitting on my computer for *cough* a few hours straight when the weather outside is sunny and cool or there are 15 projects I could be working on and this resolution is basically me wanting to break the habit of me having productive things I could be doing but instead I sit inside completing nothing.

What I want most out of 2012 is to look back and be proud of all the things I accomplished. I want to be able to look at myself in January 2012 and see a completely different person. I want to be able to point out all the amazing things I did and all the risks I took and be proud of myself. I just want to accomplish so much and basically take this year and make it my own.

What are some of your guys' resolutions? I'd love to hear them!

Weekend Recap:

2012-01-01T21:02:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, it's just nice to escape from Winter Break and get away with a friend...even if it is just around the town. Heather and I had such great plans for the unseasonably warm December weather on Friday; we were going to trek around downtown and take pictures, but were let down because it rained a lot. We used to take pictures all the time but I've kind of been slacking off and forgetting to take my camera with me whenever I go out (resolution #1!).

But here was our trip in photos!

The owl in the second picture from the bottom was a radio! The antique store we went to had two of them and I was in collector's heaven. They were in such gorgeous shape...I wish I could've gotten one. :)

Make sure to check back tomorrow for a few of my resolutions for the New Year. I'm really excited about 2012 and I feel so excited for this coming year.
Have a great Monday!

Year In Review:

2011-12-30T22:20:00.000-08:00

So this is my first ever year in review post and I'm really excited to create this post and take a step back and reflect on all the things that happened in 2011.

I decided to take a page out of elycia's blog and create a gif from all the photobooth pictures I've taken in a year and that's what you're seeing above. It's insane to look at myself now and where I am from just 365 days ago; looks and personality-wise.

This year:

I learned:

* that keeping goals and writing down my ideas helps me to be more open creatively

* not to worry about what people think about me so much

* to approach every situation and every day with positivity

* that setting aside time for your craft (ex. knitting, drawing, sewing), even when you don't want to do it, does help you learn more and become more disciplined

Firsts:

* first time going to Grand Rapids, MI for ArtPrize!

* winning Honorable Mention at my university's student photo show (also my first time submitting)!

* MY FIRST CAR!

* being a college senior!

* starting a Pinterest. Seriously, I love that site, it's my favorite.

* started playing around with graphic design and fell in love with it!

New (and old) Bands I Discovered:

* Watercolor Paintings

* Tune-Yards

* Preservation Hall Jazz Band

* Lana Del Rey

* Kimbra

Notable Things That Happened:
A friendship grew to new level * I opened myself up to new people * I became more body-confident * I began blogging again * I made my first crocheted blanket (and loved it!) * got involved with Invisible Children * found some amazing thrifted goodies * realized more what I want from my future * preparations for my senior art exhibition! *

2011 : Picture Recaps:

All in all, 2011 was a pretty great year. Of course, I had my bad days, but I'm really proud of myself for some of the things I've done this year. I have so many amazing plans for 2012 and I'm really excited for them to all come together and fall into place.

I hope everyone else has a great New Years! Drive safe and here's to a great 2012!

Friday Favorites.

2011-12-30T08:02:00.000-08:00

I wish I had known about these Star Wars snowflake cutouts before the holidays! These are so stinkin' amazing!
(via mattersofgrey.com)

(via welovetypography.com)

I am absolutely in love with iPhone case.

(via switcheasy.)

this is such a beautiful picture of Amy Poehler!

If you guys could see my face right now, it'd look like this- :-O

(via cubemarketplace.)

Well, that's about all I have this Friday Favorites. I'll be back tomorrow posting about 2011!

Everyone have a great Friday!

Thrifted!

2011-12-29T10:35:00.000-08:00

I've been thrifting quite a lot lately and haven't been keeping up with posting pictures of what I've found, so some of these pictures are of things I found between last month and around last weekend.

Last Monday, I had the pleasure of venturing to two thrift stores only to find out, as I was checking out, that all clothing was half off!

It was such a pleasant surprise and just put in the mood to want to scrounge through the thrift store(s) for hours!

I'm really excited to start wearing the boots when it's starts snowing (actual snow, not the melty kind). I had been looking for some good winter boots and I finally found them!

It seems like whenever I go thrifting I'm always attracted more to the bric-a-brac than the clothes, as you can tell from the pictures above. I probably have enough thrifted and vintage decor to last me a lifetime, no joke.

Have you guys found anything amazing this winter season? Let me know! I'd love to hear about it.

2011-12-28T12:56:00.000-08:00

I've been working quite a lot on this blanket in the past few days. It's something I had been working on for awhile and I meant to get it done by Christmas, but I failed to work fast enough.

But I know of a few people whose birthday's are coming up and I don't know anyone who wouldn't appreciate a handmade, crocheted blanket?

What I Wore:

2011-12-26T23:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas Edition!

Now, I realize that Christmas was on Sunday and that today is Tuesday but this is what I wore on Christmas. My mother & I got up early to open presents (i got pj's and underwear!) and eat breakfast and then we headed to church and a family Christmas later that day.

Word to the wise: velvet attracts everything. I don't know how often I'll be wearing this dress, but it was cute and it worked really well with a few of the detachable collars I own, so I'm excited to try it again next season!

Head to Toe:

dress : thrifted

belt : target

tights : unknown

collar : Asos

Have a great Tuesday!

Thrifted Goods!

2011-12-20T07:54:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I hung out with my good friend Heather and we decided to journey to a few thrift stores.

Thrifting is honestly one of my favorite things to do although I sometimes have to be in the

right mood to spend the required amount of time to find a lot of good things.

I usually just run in and peruse the jackets, the dresses and the shoes and then I'm usually done.

But we spent a lot of time in one store in particular and I think I found some pretty comfortable clothes for this winter. I found Heather a pair of 2 dollar Doc Marten shoes! I was stunned. Doc Martens. For 2 dollars.

I don't think I've ever seen such a steal before, I'm glad she got them!

Anyways!

Here are a few of the things I got, excuse the crappy picture quality...I forgot my camera card when I went out. :(

What have you guys ever found that was an amazing steal?

Music Monday.

2011-12-19T14:34:00.000-08:00

If you've never heard of Pogo before, I have to wonder what rock you've been living under! Pogo is seriously a wizard at taking particular sounds and cuts from movies and turning them into beautifully crafted songs and remind you of the movies you love.
These are a few of my favorites songs and if you've never heard any of his stuff before, definitely check out his other work! They're all amazing!

Friday Favorites!

2011-12-16T08:53:00.000-08:00

This Studio Ghibli inspired wreath is honestly making me swoon. I fully intend on making one as soon as I can collect enough acorns!

(via houseofghibli)

awesome DIY for a seemingly plain end table.

(via hrrrthrrr.)

I've seen this woman's work before and it's so ethereal and beautiful. Come spring / summer time, it'd be so awesome to do something like this around the outside of my house.

(via crosshatchling.)

This is so graphically appealing and it makes my tummy rumble a little.

(via myluckyundiesarered.)

Beck by Autumn De Wilde with the foreword by Michel Gondry.

this amazing, 10 story slide at St. Louis' city museum is ah-may-zing.

this bathroom design is so cool! It would be so inspiring to see every time I went to the bathroom!

(via poppytalk.)

I hope everyone has a great weekend! (and congrats to all the undergrads who made it through Finals Week!)

2011-12-15T07:28:00.000-08:00

bsmithereens

I remember finding Brittany Smith's etsy awhile ago, after seeing this amazing Pee-Wee Herman ink and paper drawing. It's Pee-Wee! And he's a gangster! How cool is that?

I am so excited to introduce you to her! Here we go!

1. List 5 things that inspire you.

*Nostalgic pop culture stuff (can you tell?haha)
*Music, lyrics, & clever wordplay
*Tattoos & tattoo art
*Inside jokes & humor in general
*Provocativeness & femininity

2. When did you realize you wanted to be an illustrator?

I have drawn, painted, and crafted forever. I had an amazing high school art teacher who made me realize that I could totally do this for a living. I started my college career majoring in Fine Arts, but found myself drawn to the Illustration department. I ended up doing a hybrid major of the two.

3. Whats one thing people might not know about you?
I have one measly tattoo, it looks like I have none. As a tattoo artist and a painter of tattoo-influenced art, one would easily assume that I'd be covered. I'm just so incredibly indecisive that I haven't decided what and where.

4. What keeps you going/motivated/inspired?
I make lists -- my purse, desk, and house are covered in lists. I am constantly getting inspired, but I am so forgetful. When I hear things that I like, see things that I want to explore more, or get a random idea I jot it down. Whenever I have time I pick something off of the list and make it happen.

5. Whats your favorite part of being a illustrator?
What's not to like? I can keep my own bizarre hours, be completely self-indulgent, and make other people's ideas (as well as my own) come to life. I love my life as an artist!

6. How does it make you feel when someone purchases your work?
It makes me feel connected to them, like they get what I was going for. They might be completely different than me, but something in there is like me and I think that is so cool! It is really nice when people like something that you've made so much that they want to wear it or hang it on their wall. It is

also really nice to be able to pay the bills doing something that I genuinely love.

7. How does it feel when you've completed a piece of work?
Whenever I finish anything I feel relieved, happy, proud, but I also start second-guessing myself. I am still envisioning all of the other ways that I sketched it out before deciding on this one and what I would change. We artists are our own worst critics, ya know?

8. What are your top 5 favorite bands/books?
I am a total book worm, I'm an addict! I am always collecting more for reference. As far as reading goes, I'm into anything comedic, biographies/memoirs, and anything with suspense (bonus points for being a true story).
I am also fanatical about music and have really eclectic taste... this is a really tough question, so I'll just go with what I've listened to today:
Sia
Patsy Cline
Jeff Buckley
The Roots
Atmosphere

9. Who has inspired you most in your life?
My grandmother really started me on my way to becoming who I am. She really fostered my love of arts and crafts from a very young age. She would take classes with me and always made it fun. Nowadays my main source of inspiration is my husband. He not only tolerates my wanderlust ways, but encourages and shares them...not to mention the fact that he really likes my quirky, artist self :)

10. Do you want to continue doing this forever?
There's no doubt in my mind that I will. Even if everyone decides that they hate my work, I'll still be painting for myself.

Thanks so much to Brittany Smith for doing this interview! It was so much fun going through her etsy and reading her answers.

You guys should definitely go check her out and don't forget to support your local artists this holiday season!

LINKS:

her etsy / her facebook

Book Review!

2011-12-14T07:23:00.000-08:00

So it's that time again! The time for another book review! And time for a confession of sorts: I (sadly) occasionally judge books by their covers. When I'm looking for a new book to read, I'm normally attracted to the covers of books that have interesting designs or pretty colors / pictures.

It's horrible and sometimes I end up out of luck because the books aren't that great and I'm out $5-10.

But this book, which I picked up because it's by F. Scott Fitzgerald (and because it's such a pretty color & great font type!), and I've been in love with his work since 'The Great Gatsby.'

It's a novella which is longer than a short story but short than a novel. It's an approach to writing that most novelists don't take but I have noticed more writers taking this route. <---book nerd moment

Book Review:

The story takes place on May Day in 1919 and follows a few different main characters at different social standings: college boys, rich girls, worn soldiers just returned from War and left-wing journalists. The novella follows these characters throughout May Day. Because the story is so short, there isn't much development in the characters and I sometimes forgot who was who in the story because it jumped around from character to character.

But all-in-all, in a story that took me a couple of hours to finish, it was a good story and the ending is so unexpected which reminded me so much of 'The Great Gatsby.' It wasn't as shocking as that climax, but it was along the same lines.

I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to read, is a Fitzgerald fan would like a bit of light reading.

It's something to add to your list of books you read!

Do any of you have any short stories or novellas they'd recommend?

update!

2011-12-13T06:04:00.000-08:00

Hey guys!

I wanted to give you a little update that since this week is finals week, I don't know how often I'll be posting.

But I'll definitely be coming back strong when I go on Christmas break!

If this is my last post this week, I hope you guys are having a stress-free Finals Week and just remember to take a break and get yourself a much needed nap. :)

Have a great week!

Music Monday.

2011-12-12T04:56:00.000-08:00

So, as many of my undergraduate readers may know, it's Finals Week!

That means: lots of studying, lots of coffee, lots of sporadic meltdowns where life seems to have no direction and it seems as if all may fall apart.

When it's all over though, you feel accomplished and proud that you made it through another finals week. :)

So since this is the beginning of Finals Week, I decided to post a Finals Week playlist.

Hopefully you find that this music inspires you to studying harder and reminds you that everything is going to be a-okay!

Do you guys have another songs that help get you through Finals Week?

Friday Favorites.

2011-12-09T06:15:00.000-08:00

Tiny crocheting! I'm in love!

(via marthastewart)

Over the summer, I bought a letterpress b! So I'm definitely going to have to try this.

(via creaturecomfortsblog.)

(via ambird)

I've been considering cutting all my air off and I've been largely inspired by Carey Mulligan. She's so gorgeous...maybe it'll work for me? :P

I happened upon these HILARIOUS art ads for insideccs and I'm thinking about posting them around my art department.

This fig, ginger syrup and pistachio pavlova looks so heavenly.

That's it for my Friday Favorites! I hope everyone has a great weekend!!

Currently:

2011-12-08T07:51:00.000-08:00

currently what i'm working on.

I got this post idea from SometimesSweet, so I thought I'd give it a go to fulfill my post for today and to give you guys a glimpse into my life as of right now.

Obsessing Over: This is so lame, but preparation for Finals. I have all art classes this semester which means I only have projects that are due and no tests. It sounds heavenly for those who have all tests, but it's so exhausting. I've been living in the art building. It's been wonderful because I love what I'm doing and I'm really proud of the work I've been producing, but I just want to snuggle down in a blanket with some good food and watch cartoons (preferably Avatar: The Last Airbender). Only one more week!

Thinking About: Well, now that I've typed out what I want to do, that's what I'm thinking about! But I have been thinking about trying some new recipes I've found. I found one for fig, ginger syrup and pistachio pavlova! I'm drooling!

Anticipating: A good Christmas break. I wrote out a list of things I want to do and I'm hoping I don't get lazy and lay around (although that does sound heavenly). Here's to a good Christmas break!

Drinking: currently, nothing.

Wishing: That I was in bed, nestled down and sleeping peacefully and undisturbed. I realize I sound like a sleep-depraved loon, but honestly, I'm just attacking the pile of work I have and dreaming of when it's all over.

Are any of my followers dealing with Finals either coming up or already here? What do you guys do to stay sane?

Book Review!

2011-12-07T06:03:00.000-08:00

I've recently come into some more free time this semester and I decided to start reading some more books. When I was younger, I used to devour books. I read all the time. I remember in the 5th grade, we kept a tally of how many pages we read during the school year

and I won an award for reading the most pages!

I just had a thirst for reading that kind of dwindled down when I hit high school and especially in college where the only reading you're doing is schoolbook reading.

After all that, you're normally not excited to read even more.

But I've gotten into reading more and decided to do a book review for the books that I've been reading. So here we go!

Lolita is narrated by Humbert Humbert, a European intellectual in America, who love life choices have been reflective of him trying to recapture a childhood love. After the disintegration of his first marriage, he moves into a guest room only by the mere chance that he will meet what he terms as, a nymphet. It is there, at this house, that he meets 12-year old Dolores Haze and he plans to seduce her but must first get rid of her mother.

The fates prove to be more cunning than him as the mother is quickly disposed of and Humbert Humbert takes his Dolores Haze, whom he calls Lolita, on an across the States trip where he seduces her. The whole story is built on his narrating this ideal "relationship" and "love" with Lolita, but it always proves disappointing as she treats him as something annoying and irritating.

I have heard so many rave reviews about Lolita, that I had to give it a try. But after reading it all, I felt exhausted and just a little bit queasy. With all the talk about nymphets and the way he describes the beauty of little girls, you feel a little sick of hearing it after awhile.

Nabokov though, writes so beautifully that you can't help but continue to read as he describes the way he feels about Lolita. Regardless of it being a little creepy (because she's 12, come on!), you do understand how he feels because at one point or another, you've felt the same way about someone too.

All in all, I wouldn't recommend this book to everyone. I would definitely only read it's something you've wanted to read for awhile. It's definitely not a book that everyone would enjoy.

If anyone else has read this book, what'd you think about it?

2011-12-06T06:23:00.000-08:00

I got bangs! The idea struck me at 12:20am on Saturday night and I decided to go for it!

I had just got done watching 500 Days of Summer so I may or may not have been inspired by Zooey Deschanel's bangs. (whoops!)

I've been lusting hardcore over her hair, length-wise. *sigh* If only you could grow hair that long in a night. oh well. :-)

Have you guys ever tried bangs before? What'd you think?

Music Monday.

2011-12-05T09:16:00.000-08:00

It's time for an obligatory Christmas Music Monday post!

But this time it's an indie Christmas music post!

Enjoy!

What are some of your guys' favorite songs?

2011-12-03T11:25:00.000-08:00

meet Hugo, my roommates and I new cat. I've never had much experience with cats, mostly because my brother is super allergic to them. But so far, it's been a interesting experience, having a cat running around.

He has a weird thing about eyeballs. He'll stare at your eye and then come really close and try to nibble your eyelashes. It's so strange! I don't get it!

Have you guys ever had cats that do weird things?

Friday Favorites:

2011-12-02T11:52:00.000-08:00

I just last night rediscovered taza and husband's blog. It's so amazingly cute!

I am super impressed by this cake. And I realllly want to try it.

(via breakfastattoast.)

These mocassins from LL Bean look so amazingly comfortable, they'd definitely get me through the cold Indiana winter.

(via telegram ma'am)

*sigh* I just really want to own this.

(via anthropologie)

MAJOR swoon!

(via beautifullife.info)

Have a great weekend everyone!

November In Review:

2011-12-01T07:26:00.000-08:00

Blogs I found:

loveelyica.

wolves & bucks.

New (to me) Bands I found:

Patrick & Eugene

GirlTalk

Boy & Bear

Miike Snow

Tune-Yards

New Movies I watched:

The Muppets Movie!

New Things to Happen This Month:

Aside from going to see the Muppet movie, I haven't really experienced anything super *new*. Well, I take that back. I'm going to matte my first picture since sophomore year today, so that's pretty new! I'm nervous because I'm afraid I'll ruin the process. Keep your fingers crossed!

Things I'm Thankful For:

I know I made a list like this on Thanksgiving, but here are a few more things I'm thankful for: hanging out with friends / feeling ultra inspired / friends that can relate / happiness / getting projects done / family / quesadillas (no joke!) / plans for summer 2012 / graduating soon! / helpful parents / my new kitty! (pictures later)

I honestly can't believe that it's december already. It's almost 2012! Wow!

Here's to hoping everyone has an amazing 2012 planned!

Random Post:

2011-11-30T12:02:00.000-08:00

My fall semester is quickly coming to a close and I've been working non-stop on art projects and business plans and whatnot.

I'll basically be living in the art building for the next two weeks, it's great!

But I decided to create a random post showing you guys some of my work:

These are a few posters I've worked on to stick in my portfolio. I'm a photo concentration and this portfolio class has stretched me further graphically than I ever thought

possible.

But I love it! I always thought graphic design wasn't for me, but who knows? I may start taking some classes to learn a little more about graphic design.

I'm doing a book review tomorrow! So stay tuned!

have a great Wednesday!

What I Wore:

2011-11-29T07:21:00.000-08:00

This outfit made me feel so much like Matt Smith (the 11th Doctor, from Doctor Who)! I felt so suave and dapper and had so much fun channeling Matt Smith.

I was going to wear the bowtie for my senior portrait for the yearbook, but thought

the photographer wasn't going to let me, so I ended up taking it off before he took my pictures.

It was disappointing because I don't think he would've cared. Ah well, live and learn.

head to toe:

bowtie : outside antique mall

dress shirt : H&M

blazer : thrift store

Everyone have a great Tuesday!

Music Monday.

2011-11-28T09:03:00.000-08:00

Being in college can be extremely stressful at times.

I'm sure it's also a part of just growing up, but it gets hard sometimes to manage the things I want to do with the things I have to do.

So for this Music Monday, I made this mix to help me (and hopefully others) get through the Monday Blues (it's totally real! ha!)

Hopefully this mix gets you guys through Monday as well!

Here's to hoping we all have a great day!

2011-11-26T12:10:00.000-08:00

Well, if you can't tell by this picture, I totally went to see the new Muppets movie! I took my 4-year old cousin and it was great! I wish I had taken a picture of all of us together before it started, but I didn't. But regardless of that, the movie was top-notch.

I remember a quote from Jason Segel about The Muppets, "The Muppets don't get laughs at other people's expense. It's part of what I really loved about the Muppets. They don't even want to destroy their villain, they want to reform him."

It was such a magical movie and you feel so good after leaving the movie theatre.

I recommend this movie to everyone!

Friday Favorites.

2011-11-25T15:17:00.000-08:00

(via pinkparakeets)

This is such an adorable collar! I love detachable collars.

(via romwe)

This vintage & handmade wedding is so fantastic. I can't wait until I get married one day.

I love love love this cover. I'm always attracted to great designs on book and always get suckered in to buying them even though I've never read them.

Is there really anything more amazing? (source unknown)

(via thistinyhouse)

That's all I have for this week's Friday Favorites. I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving! I'm already ready for Christmas music and everything! (is that sad?)

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2011-11-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! I just briefly wanted to stop by and give an obligatory (albeit corny) list of things that I'm thankful for.

I didn't really have much of a post for today, but this is a little something I wanted to do because I have a lot to be thankful for.

Top 10 Reasons Why I'm Thankful:

* that my mom got a job

* that it's my senior year and that I'm about to graduate

* that I'm alive (cheesy, I know!)

* that I am learning to see beauty in everyday

* that I'm learning more about myself everyday

* that I feel like I'm finally learning who I am

* that I get to be with my family and we're all healthy

* that i'm finding my first all handmade Christmas is so far pretty successful

* that I have really great friends

* that even when I worry so much about things, God is always to remind me to step back and give my worries to Him.

These are the things I'm thankful for, and there pretty serious! None of that corny stuff! (haha, except for the alive part).

I hope everyone has a FANTASTIC Thanksgiving. I'm so excited to eat some really good food!

What I Wore:

2011-11-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

It's November and sometimes it doesn't feel like November. When I wore this outfit, it was the first day of appropriate November weather (i.e. wintery, cold, icy). I wore sweater tights and boots and a big ol' jacket with a scarf and gloves. It was kind of nice, actually.

outfit:

dress: H&M

cardigan: target

tights: Kohl's

boots: Maurices

scarf: stolen *cough* from my mother's closet

sunglasses: thrifted

I have a pretty cute crafting excursion I had yesterday evening to share with you tomorrow. I'm excited!

How is everyone else enjoying this November weather?

have a great Wednesday and Thanksgiving is tomorrow! (eeep!)

Roommate Shots!

2011-11-22T08:09:00.000-08:00

I had the awesome privilege to shoot some roommate shots for my friends. They all have their own, individually unique personalities but they work so well together.

It was so much fun and I wanted to post some up here so my readers/followers can get a glimpse into my undergrad life. Perhaps sometime in the future I'll do a tour of my campus apartment?

Music Monday.

2011-11-21T07:35:00.000-08:00

Normally, I try to pick my Music Mondays to have a certain theme, but I was crunched for time and decided to pick an 8tracks mix I've been listening to lately.
(click here to listen!)

Enjoy and have a great Monday!

Friday Favorites.

2011-11-18T07:37:00.000-08:00

This woman's photo stream is the most enchanting and beautiful thing ever. These dolls are just so beautiful I can hardly stand it!

(via oso_polar)

(via oslo_polar)

I have an enormous amount of respect that she has shaved her head. It's so beautiful.

(via melijpeg)

Thanksgiving Break is coming up and these will be first on my list to make. I'm drooling already.

(via jeff and erin's pics)

succulents! I swoon hard whenever I see these beautiful plants.

(via theknottybride)

This simple syrup (you add it to alcohol) sounds so delicious!

*it's lavender lemon!*

(via catbird)

That's all I have for this Friday's Favorites. :) Hope everyone has a great weekend!

A Random Post!

2011-11-17T13:21:00.000-08:00

Here's a little sneak peek at what I've been working on for the last month. Hopefully this will be one of the first things going up in my shop when I'm finished!

Stay tuned for when I open up shop and maybe this adorable blanket will be yours?

2011-11-16T18:28:00.005-08:00

this is an ever-growing list so be sure to check back!

2011-11-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

I'll be honest with you: some days, I just wake up and don't ever feel like trying with my outfits. I go through phases with clothing and sometimes I'll dress up everyday and some days I feel like wearing a big sweater and lounging around. Sometimes I'll be bright and colorful and sometimes I'll be subdued and pretty monochromatic.

I think today easily fits into the subdued category. I stuck to earth tones today and picked simple pieces

because it was a rough day and I couldn't be bothered with an interesting outfit. :P

head to toe:

cowl: h&m

cardigan: Old Navy

black shirt: h&m

pants: jc penny

In the future I hope to take more detailed and interesting pictures of my outfit choices. Here's to one of my November goals!

2011-02-23T06:36:00.000-08:00

There is nothing I love more than a man with a beard. Well, maybe one more thing, beautiful women with tattoos.

When they are coupled together, I find myself immersed in a duo of beautiful beards and tattoos that none can compare.

Finding wedding pictures (or after wedding pictures, rather) that reflect a couple's true spirit as a unique couple,

makes me hopeful.

This next wedding, from kristinrogersphotography, is so gorgeous is pains me.

Credit:

kristinrogersphotography

Have a great Wednesday!

xo Bethany

2011-02-22T07:23:00.000-08:00

Say hello to:

Rachel Taren.

1. List 5 things that inspire you.

* my boyfriend / artist Matt Duffenbach

* tattoo flash

* good music

* photography

* books - both art reference and literature. (and a little wine never hurt anyone)

2. What is your favorite tattoo style?

Traditional. Bold will hold! Traditional tattoos are classic, the designs looked good 50 years ago and they'll look good 50 years from now. You don't have to worry about your tattoo going "out of style". For example, I saw a girl with a plaid design on her arm. It looked gorgeous and I really liked it initially. But I don't think that style of tattoo would age well. If you don't believe me, go hang out with your grandpa and his friends and ask to see their old army/navy tattoos--you'll really see how a tattoo ages.

3. Out of all your tattoos, which is your favorite?
I love all of them, my "favorite" is always changing. Currently I love my back of the leg tiger even though it's just an outline. I can't wait to get it colored.
7. What's one thing people might not know about you?

4. How many more tattoos do you want?

I'd like to get some more on my right leg to fill it in a bit more. I'd like to get my stomach done, but I'm dreading the pain. I'd also like to get a little pair of Japanese style "shorts" on my butt and upper back-of-my-legs. After that, who knows. In a perfect world, I would get my neck & hands done, but I'm currently working in a professional atmosphere.

5. How does your family / friends feel about your tattoos?
Each of my family members have their own individual opinions, ranging from "I hate them" (my mom) to "I love them" (my aunt). As for friends, I've really eliminated anyone from my life that is "anti-tattoos", not even really on purpose, we just obviously don't have anything in common anymore.

6. What do you do in your downtime?
I work full time at a medical review company in LA. When I'm not slaving away over people's health insurance claims, I am probably painting, walking my dogs, running, reading, cooking, or watching something on Instant Netflix.

7. What's one thing people might not know about you?

I have hitchhiker thumbs. It's weird, only like 6 or 7% of the population have them, it's genetic.

8. Who inspires you (tattoo-wise)?
For art reference, I like to look at the art & tattoos of Sailor Jerry, Amund Dietzel, Angelique Houtkamp. Also, I've been wanting to get tattooed by Cory Rogers for years now, I pretty love everything he does.

9. What's your favorite part of the tattooing process?
The feeling of elation when you are done. But that's just the beginning because often the most painful aspect is the healing after it's done. I bump my fresh tattoos on everything, people touch them and it hurts, my dogs jump and scratch them. Ouch. Keep them clean with soap and water at least twice a day is my magic-healing-advice for everyone.

10. What's your advice for people considering getting tattoos?

Choose a good artist--you should like every photo in their portfolio, seriously!! Their lines should be clean and dark. Ideally, the photos in their portfolio should be of healed tattoos.

Check her out @:

tumblr

Major thanks to Rachel for doing this interview and sending me pictures! :)

Everyone have a great Tuesday!!

xo Bethany

2011-02-21T06:20:00.000-08:00

Alright. Big news you guys! Radiohead came out wih a new album over the weekend, 'The King of Limbs!!!!!'

How awesome is that?!?!

I've only heard a few songs but have listened to them on repeat because they are very good!

I heard they released this CD on their own (without a label), which I find to be extremely impressive.

I reccomend giving it a listen because it is KOALA-TEA!

Have a great Monday!
xo Bethany

2011-02-18T06:36:00.000-08:00

It's another Friday Favorites! I get so excited sometimes to share the images, projects and artwork with you guys!

This awesome before & after project.

(via aprettypennyblog.)

I'm a big fan of Pushing Daisies and this recipe reminded me so much of the scene where

she bakes apple pie with gruyere baked into the crust.

I may just have to try this recipe to see if it tastes as well as it sounds!

(via From Scratch.)

I always love checking this blog because they have the most amazing cat pictures!

(via wolves and bucks)

(via @ranzazu)

very beautiful vintage nails!

This is such a cool idea to create some cheap stamps.

(source unknown)

This picture makes my mouth water everytime I see it!

(via closetvegan.)

amazing amazing gift wrapping ideas!

(via marcinema.)

There are no words for how fantastic this is!

(source unknown)

I think that's about all I have for this Friday Favorites, hopefully you found it as inspiring as I did!

I'm looking forward to relaxing this weekend on campus and working on homework (gasp! It's true!)

Everyone have a great and wonderful weekend!

xo Bethany

2011-02-17T07:30:00.000-08:00

For this Thursday's random post, I'm going to fill your guys' minds with some inspiring images.

Something that I love about the age of technology (and tumblr, for that matter), is that you can find a plethora of

inspiring and beautiful images that can inspire you to do so much!

There are so many beautiful things in this world that I think sometimes we take for granted, and I just

want to share so images or songs that keep me inspired/going.

(via speak.)

(via lomography.com)

(source unknown)

(unknown)

(via source unknown)

(via debbie smyth)

(viasmileysquid)

(via parker fitzgerald)

(via parker fitzgerald.)

That's all I have for this Thursday's random post.

I hope everyone's having a lovely Thursday (so far).

xo Bethany

2011-02-16T06:25:00.000-08:00

I am seriously in love with this anniversary photo shoot (three years!), it's the perfect mix of cute and stylish.

I love how in love they seem and the way the colors pop.

Check it out @ :

hazelnutphotography.com

2011-02-15T13:32:00.000-08:00

This Tattoo Tuesday is very special to me because the person I interviewed is someone I've known for years!

(back when myspace was poppin'!) I can't believe it's taken me this long to get an interview

with her but I am so stoked to be sharing this wonderful person with you guys.

Sarah Huffman.

1. List 5 things that inspire you.

* God

* Art

* Nature

* People

* Love

2. What is your favorite tattoo style?

Most of my tattoos are pretty simple even though I enjoy lots of color. I plan on adding more color to my body in the future.

3. Out of all your tattoos, which is your favorite?

Oh man, that's a though question because I love them all. I guess for the sake of this interview I'll choose my feet/ankles. My right foot has a Lion head and on the ankle it says "He Is" and the left foot has a Lamb head and the ankle says "Worthy"

4. How many more tattoos do you want?

At least 7 more. I have 7 ideas in my head for tattoos right now but I could get more!

5. How does your family/friends feel about your tattoos?

Friends love them. Older members in my family are not too keen on tattoos in general. My mom got her one and only tattoo with me when I was 17. She still gets anxious when I announce I am getting a tattoo though.

6. What do you do in your downtime?

Facebook and Tumblr, haha1 Pretty pathetic, but I am trying to occupy my time more efficiently currently.

7. What's one thing that most people might not know about you?

Hmmm... Most people probably don't know that I used to have a porn addiction. How's that for being open and honest? haha

8. Who inspires you, tattoo-wise?

No one really. I once saw a photo of a women who was probably in her 80s who was covered in tattoos. That inspires me to not get tattoos for fear of how they look when I get old and wrinkly.

9. What's your favorite part of the tattooing process?

Actually getting it done I think. the worst is after when it's sore.

10. What's one thing you would tell people who are considering getting a tattoo?

Don't get a tattoo right after you think of an idea. Don't get one on a whim unless it's something silly that you really don't care about. If it's a tattoo that really means something to you, think about it for awhile, at least 6 months or so. Or whatever you feel is a sufficient amount of time. I know I have outgrown ideas or the idea grows from the original thought, over time.

Check her out @:

flickr / twitter / formspring / tumblr

2011-02-14T06:14:00.000-08:00

This music monday is dedicated to a band that has been around for awhile but I've kind of

neglected because I always felt they were clique. I came across the first video a couple of days ago

and fell in love! It was so good!

I then got the entire album and have not been disappointed!

Of Montreal

That's about all I have for this Music Monday!

xo Bethany

wedding wednesday

2011-02-09T06:53:00.000-08:00

I saw this wedding on rocknrollbride and instantly fell in love with it.

There is something so simplistic, clean and fresh about (good) wedding photography and these pictures, these colors are so drop dead gorgeous.

It's so vintage 1920's style that it kills me. (and I may be a tad jealous!)

CREDIT:

http://jonaspeterson.com/

Everyone have a great Wednesday!

xo Bethany

tattoo tuesday.

2011-02-08T06:21:00.000-08:00

I've been hearing/seeing a lot of buzz about this interviewee lately and I decided to contact her for an interview for my Tattoo Tuesday. I must admit I was little nervous because I thought, "Oh, I'm sure she'll have better things to do than give some wannabe blogger an interview."

But after getting the interview, I have to say that I am very excited to introduce you to:

Danae Ayala.

1. List 5 things that inspire you.

* my mother

* fellow piercers

* my three best friends

* black metal & doom

* Charles Bukowski.

2. What is your favorite tattoo style?

Traditional Americana.

3. Out of all your tattoos, which is your favorite?

Every time I get a new one, it becomes my favorite. So, my current favorite is my mummified hawk that Jef Whitehead did on my left elbow.

4. How many more tattoos do you want?

I plan to be pretty heavily tattooed. Th only places I don't want completely covered are my face and my butt.

5. How does your family/friends feel about your tattoos?

My mom has tattoos,and honestly, I think that's where I got it. My dad never really liked tattoos or piercings, but he fought me about my piercings more than my tattoos. Now, he always wants to see the new pieces I get, and so does the rest of my family.

6. What do you do in your downtime?

I don't have too much spare time, with working at the piercing studio and a cafe on the weekends, plus trying to keep a household together. When I happen to have spare time, I like going out to doom shows with my girls, and going thrifting for treasures with my boyfriend. I love cooking, baking and reconstructing clothing.

7. What's one thing that people might not know about you?

I have an extra vertebrae. It's not a tail though, just caused a slight curve in my spine, leaving me with acute Scoliosis.

8. Who inspires you (tattoo-wise)?

Jonas Uggli, Stevie Edge, Jef Whitehead, Bugsy, Chad Koeplinger, Uzi, all the guys at Smith Street, Rock of Ages, Diablo Rojo, those kinda of tattooers.

9. What's your favorite part of the tattooing process?

My favorite part is probably the fact that with each new piece that I collect, I feel more and more complete. I get to meet amazing tattooers, and I try to make sure that the piece I choose for them to do for me is something they enjoy so that not only are they leaving their mark on me, but they'll remember me as well.

10. What's one thing you would tell people who are considering getting tattoos?

RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH. Don't just walk into some random shop and let who ever tattoo you. Make sure you're IN LOVE with their work and wouldn't change a thing. Also, if you're young and have just started getting tattoos, don't rush and just get your hands and neck blasted. Those are parts of your body that you and everyone else are going to see constantly,so it is very important to get someone who's work you GREATLY respect to tattoo those areas. If you're anything like me and pretty much anyone else I know, it takes a long time to discover what actually makes a good tattoo. Most of my first year of getting tattooed is now lasered off and covered up.

Check her out @:

tumblr / bmezine

Thanks so much to Danae for doing this interview!

Everyone have a fabulous Tuesday!