tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1367642071716656792024-02-19T00:25:30.183-06:00Specs AppealHi! And welcome to my blog, where I will show and tell about life as seen from my bespectacled eyes. It may be a journal-y entry, an endorsement of a product, a book or movie review, or just whatever I'm thinking about at the time. Please leave comments and tell your friends if you like what you see so that they may have specs appeal, too.Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.comBlogger304125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-90190852256280722512014-06-25T22:18:00.000-05:002014-06-25T22:18:31.550-05:00In the Lonely Hour<div style="text-align: center;">
Not much has been able to pull me out of the semi blog-tirement I've been experiencing. However...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmzw3Zn75TY-h_6_erCO4KzhID9FILAqxZQih9hJzhzDQCKHlLCmYVYsCSW5EG4gGkmCRQ4Zv5s9OtwhZsfrwTCwri5aQwvtkgCK3D-J0hMy9KXzbll0x0OcAGES3Hjyndmeo48dMhLMen/s1600/in.the.lonely.hour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmzw3Zn75TY-h_6_erCO4KzhID9FILAqxZQih9hJzhzDQCKHlLCmYVYsCSW5EG4gGkmCRQ4Zv5s9OtwhZsfrwTCwri5aQwvtkgCK3D-J0hMy9KXzbll0x0OcAGES3Hjyndmeo48dMhLMen/s1600/in.the.lonely.hour.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sam Smith.</div>
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He's 22 and British. And talented. Like crazy talented. He's being hailed as the next Adele, which is not a generous heaping of praise. In my book, he's more than earned it.</div>
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A few months ago he was on <a href="http://youtu.be/2n8k_bdOe94" target="_blank">SNL</a>, and he blew me away. He sang the gospel-tinged Stay With Me for one of his turns onstage and later posted a duet of this song with the incomparable Mary J. Blige. It was several antsy weeks for me until his album In the Lonely Hour "dropped" last Tuesday. I bought it. And it is <i>good</i>.</div>
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His songs showcase an enviable vocal range, and although my favorites are the more stripped-down ballads (duh), his pop songs are fun without going Gaga. </div>
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Late last week he up and covered <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2012/02/whitney-houston-1963-2012.html" target="_blank">Whitney Houston</a>'s <a href="http://youtu.be/kwHACITShSI" target="_blank">How Will I Know</a>, slow-jam style. And he nailed it. So now it's official that I'm obsessed. He has the chops and still seems very down-to-earth. Oh, and he's coming to the Ryman in October! Tickets: purchased. Show: quickly sold out. Tommy: elated.</div>
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I hope you're well!</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-430585798853590682013-09-21T15:44:00.000-05:002013-09-21T15:44:14.329-05:00I DO Want Some Scrubs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hRRD2pj1s9m94m2ArTDz176L0Dl4Z1LVatIdyY3Lgmnnq6T490SkdDqLyCz0BQV17zXkJ1DsO0wPMnGbvi7pCLqjGXEjn0_U_ZOrB1sCN4ZsBUYnNtOY-bzj73XZ3dq-Rj_B0skcN0Sg/s1600/Scrub-a-Dub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hRRD2pj1s9m94m2ArTDz176L0Dl4Z1LVatIdyY3Lgmnnq6T490SkdDqLyCz0BQV17zXkJ1DsO0wPMnGbvi7pCLqjGXEjn0_U_ZOrB1sCN4ZsBUYnNtOY-bzj73XZ3dq-Rj_B0skcN0Sg/s400/Scrub-a-Dub.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Y'all know that I love a <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2010/05/my-always-list-scrub.html" target="_blank">face scrub</a>. Recently I picked up <a href="http://www.stives.com/Facial-Products/Naturally-Clear/Blemish-(and)-Blackhead-Control-Apricot-Scrub/" target="_blank">this one</a> from St. Ives that has been on the market for a long time. Actually, the original has been around a while, but this version is updated. Now they've left out parabens. Tah dah. </div>
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It is a bit gritty, but I like that. Plus, you can't beat the price (around $4-$6, depending on <a href="http://www.drugstore.com/st-ives-naturally-clear-blemish-and-blackhead-control-scrub-apricot/qxp347880?catid=182263" target="_blank">where</a> you buy it). It smells rather nice, too. While I plan to stick with the Kiehl's, this one is a nice reinforcement--for my skin as well as my wallet.</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-47471419368297095642013-03-26T21:56:00.003-05:002013-03-26T21:56:50.563-05:00Five Things<div style="text-align: center;">
Inspired by Meredith's post over on <a href="http://www.itslikethisblog.com/2013/03/fabulous-friday_22.html" target="_blank">It's Like This</a>, I thought I'd share five tidbits about myself that you may not know.</div>
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1. I am rather skilled at cracking eggs. It's one of my hidden talents. Nary a speck of shell escapes my watchful eyes or nimble fingers. Egg whites only? No problem. Bring it.</div>
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2. If I find a song to be funny, then it gets added to this internal list of go-to, pick-me-up tunes. In fact, it's my main criterion for non-ballad songs. Favorites include "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koLGWap2gt4" target="_blank">Potential New Boyfriend</a>" by Dolly Parton, "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4QnalIHlVc" target="_blank">Private Dancer</a>" by Tina Turner, and "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqwCko-kzR0" target="_blank">Stay With Me</a>" by Rod Stewart. Oh, and "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4nWy8pmIM4" target="_blank">Barracuda</a>" by Heart. The more dramatic, the better.</div>
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3. I <i>hate</i> Lucite furniture. Hate. I get it. It's "modern" (sarcastic quotes) and doesn't take up visual space. But it seems like such a dust and fingerprint magnet. People tend to throw a damn Phillipe Starck Ghost Chair in a room and call it done. My initial reaction is always this thought: <i>Oh. How clever!</i> I can't help it. Then I think: <i>You just spent $300 on a piece of molded plastic that's ugly as homemade sin. Congrats!</i></div>
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4. I have a twin brother. And in the ways that we're different, we're so different. But I'm coming to realize that the older we get, the more we have in common. Friends who have known us for many years now swear up and down that we have the same sense of humor. That's hard for me to see, but sometimes it takes a third party to point out these things.</div>
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5. It's a rare day that I don't quote <i>Home Alone</i>, <i>Clueless</i>, or something from <i>The Golden Girls</i>. Rare. Like I often follow a food order with <i>I'm not drivin'</i>, a la Kevin McCallister. These are fine examples of entertainment media that I can count on to make me laugh, regardless how many times I've seen them or how accurately I can quote them.</div>
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Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-83952884477880036642013-03-22T17:34:00.001-05:002013-03-22T17:34:16.946-05:00Gone Girl<div style="text-align: center;">
Thank goodness that although I may be a bit late to the party, I didn't miss it entirely.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0UHaG7p6Hkx-ioWTd9AcXyfn-HRQXvPRBZQ9I84jgaSQyB4pEj7ealLrv6KBxMxVsES6tMW7yIK0v8yJkKaflihjRtnpRqcqAUZKXBve_sk2w9W7rHN4pa6HCrrGK3Yf8PtQ8Hz6Grat/s1600/gone.girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0UHaG7p6Hkx-ioWTd9AcXyfn-HRQXvPRBZQ9I84jgaSQyB4pEj7ealLrv6KBxMxVsES6tMW7yIK0v8yJkKaflihjRtnpRqcqAUZKXBve_sk2w9W7rHN4pa6HCrrGK3Yf8PtQ8Hz6Grat/s320/gone.girl.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
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Honestly, it's hard to even begin to write about <i>Gone Girl</i> by Gillian Flynn. Last weekend I absolutely ripped through it. Like disregarded my regularly scheduled programming and library run, ironically enough. Someone at work had warned me that this is not the type of book to casually read before drifting off to sleep. Or over the course of a couple of weeks.</div>
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Check and check. This book is intense. Hmm....maybe that's not exactly the right word. It's definitely a page-turner, but that seems too weak an adjective. It's basically astounding. How's that? </div>
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I read hundreds of pages at a clip. It's a little over 400 total, in case you're wondering. But it didn't seem like it at all. This is the story of Amy and Nick, a young, married couple who has moved from posh New York City to small-town Missouri to care for his ailing parents. Although they put on a good front, the pair's marriage is in ruins, and pretty early in the story, something disastrous happens.</div>
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This novel is organized like few others I've encountered, moving from his point of view to hers, and told through dialogue, diary entries, and teen-girl-magazine quizzes (just bear with it). It's more than a mystery or a thriller, I think. It seems to be a razor-sharp study into the lengths a person could go to really teach someone a lesson. You just have to decide <i>who</i> that someone is in this book.</div>
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I'm not going to give away too much more, except to say that this is a must-read. You'll be in for some memorable characters, twisted storylines, and even a few (dark) laughs. As my friend Rachel would say--run, do not walk to get this book.</div>
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An example entry from Amy's diary (page 169) reads as follows:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've got a calendar, and I put hearts on any day Nick seems to love me again, and black squares when he doesn't. The past year was all black squares, pretty much.</span></div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-4928565816915990172013-03-17T23:51:00.001-05:002013-03-17T23:51:42.182-05:00American Beauty<div style="text-align: center;">
No, not the movie. Although it's one of my favorites. But the book--by Thom Filica. I mentioned it whilst reviewing <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2013/01/thom-filicia-style.html" target="_blank">another</a> of his books. </div>
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This one is a bit different because it's not a bunch of before-and-afters. Instead, it's one big makeover of a classic but weathered house by the Finger Lakes.</div>
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After the first few sentences and photographs, I was hooked. Hooked, I say. And not just for the lake/fishing pun. I tore through several chapters and followed along on the years-long journey that took Thom through refreshing this <i>maison d'Americana</i>. (I just made that up. It's not real French.)</div>
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Throughout the book and, of course, the house are several unifying elements. Natural. Nautical. Local. Decidedly unfussy. If I had the resources, I would love to do a house very similar to this one. Like <i>that </i>Thom, this one would put grasscloth on the walls and original hardwood on the floors. I'd make symmetry a silent partner in my scheme. The lighting would be thoughtful. The powder room would be dramatic. (There'd <i>be</i> a powder room.) I'd hire awesome and native contractors and architects who could keep the original vision of the place.</div>
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Like before, though, Mr. Filica gets a little bit self-promotional. Who knew he had partnerships with companies that offer lamps, floor coverings, furniture, fabric, artwork, curtain hardware... By the end the text gets a bit repetitive, too. After 200 pages, I remember that the planks are run that way to invoke the feeling of being in a boat. I remember that the stone around the fireplace inspired materials in other rooms. And so on. But they're really great ideas. And this book is definitely worth a browse. Try to catch it before we're in full-on summer mode. It's definitely a cooler-weather book.</div>
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Here's what Thom thought of the house while planning its design (from page 54):</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was reminded of the beautiful librarian who takes off her glasses and lets her hair out of the bun and suddenly she's a looker. It's the same woman. She's just revealing who she really was to begin with.</span></div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-11992359272752199792013-02-26T20:04:00.004-06:002013-02-26T20:04:47.705-06:00Not So Fast, Alligator...<div style="text-align: center;">
Has it really been over a year since my last <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2012/01/storybook-winter.html" target="_blank">ad post</a>? Le sigh. That brings us to Lacoste.</div>
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Obviously there's some specs appeal to be had here, but I took the time to tear out this page, scan it, e-mail it to myself, color-correct it in <a href="http://pixlr.com/express/" target="_blank">Pixlr</a> (thanks, <a href="http://smittenandswell.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">One Fine A</a>!), and post it here...whew...because just look at that tag line. Unconventional chic. </div>
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What's so unconventional here? It's a Caucasian man and woman wearing solid-color polos--that cost about a C-note each. And they're sporting glasses (albeit super-cool ones) that are not really too hard to find. </div>
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Did I miss something? Lacoste, are you being cheeky?</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-71899218857467203232013-02-16T19:11:00.002-06:002013-02-16T19:11:43.731-06:00Pre-Spring Cleaning: Kitchen<div style="text-align: center;">
I spend a fair amount of time in my kitchen, especially on the weekends, when I tend to bake up some <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/search/label/sweet%20treats" target="_blank">treats</a>. Through the week the microwave gets in on most of the culinary action. It's always nice to take the time to tidy up the workhorse of the home, though.<br />
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On the daily I use tea tree all purpose spray cleaner from <a href="http://www.commongoodandco.com/common_good.html" target="_blank">Common Good</a> because it's eco-friendly and smells nice. Usually it takes just a few sprays, which sit for 3-4 minutes, and then a quick swipe of a towel. Ketchup dots, rogue powdered sugar, and toasty crumbs are drawn in like magnetism.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbhizrhHhqV5raPqOkKcB7K6xyljT51l7yonljOA_mwtG6aRsiFIRvEbk5f3BgXjkJSKStWPLQWrdsz1eIxDF1wtDtPvA6K7AAqGTbeXSZ0MWimQ_kn8pYsoybQBawhegvSzEQ79MvIda/s1600/method.dish.soap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbhizrhHhqV5raPqOkKcB7K6xyljT51l7yonljOA_mwtG6aRsiFIRvEbk5f3BgXjkJSKStWPLQWrdsz1eIxDF1wtDtPvA6K7AAqGTbeXSZ0MWimQ_kn8pYsoybQBawhegvSzEQ79MvIda/s1600/method.dish.soap.jpg" /></a></div>
For the pots and pans, which I don't trust to the dishwasher, I use <a href="http://methodhome.com/shop/dish-pump/" target="_blank">method's clementine-scented dish soap</a> to get the job done. Grease is no match for this stuff.<br />
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If I need just a teensy bit of abrasion on a cookie sheet or roasting pan, I turn to the power of baking soda. It's super cheap and green. (In fact, I just use boxes from my baking cabinet that are not so fresh any longer.) Drip a bit of warm water on the surface of the dish, sprinkle generously with baking soda, and rub with your fingers. Tah dah! <br />
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You can also use baking soda to clean the sink, faucet, and stovetop. A quick lap with the vacuum, and I'm done!<br />
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Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-60595612467463701932013-02-10T18:45:00.001-06:002013-02-10T18:45:09.057-06:00The Family Fang<div style="text-align: center;">
After my recent <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2013/01/thom-filicia-style.html" target="_blank">design</a> <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2013/01/home-by-novogratz.html" target="_blank">book</a> <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-things-that-matter.html" target="_blank">reviews</a>, I decided to shift gears back to the ol' novel. As some of you may have seen on Ashley's weekly <a href="http://smittenandswell.blogspot.com/2012/12/need-read-greed_12.html" target="_blank">Need Read Greed</a> post a few weeks back, <i>The Family Fang</i> by Kevin Wilson was on my list.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyqReiGpBTD9TeVo4blY1fpgHaNLCJP7rkfYrrGhzaKupf9HhABbCn9Y8Xhj4tquSqKyb5P43i_mmuSYhabO8xOIaNmTv1Zf6tx-fKJMIx0vWbilC1IIgM3aX1SZnjcHW6XAyll4BPWmTD/s1600/family.fang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyqReiGpBTD9TeVo4blY1fpgHaNLCJP7rkfYrrGhzaKupf9HhABbCn9Y8Xhj4tquSqKyb5P43i_mmuSYhabO8xOIaNmTv1Zf6tx-fKJMIx0vWbilC1IIgM3aX1SZnjcHW6XAyll4BPWmTD/s320/family.fang.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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I have to say that I had such great hopes for this book. Just look at that Wes Anderson-esque cover. And it's primarily set in the Nashville area. What could be better? </div>
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The first two-thirds of the story kept my attention pretty well. Parents Caleb and Camille Fang spend much of their children's youth setting up "art" in which their whole family creates some type of public spectacle to get a reaction from onlookers. They're famous. They're revered. And they're terrible parents.</div>
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As the kids (Annie and Buster) grow up to pursue their own interests, a series of random events brings them back to their Tennessee roots. And things just get more random from there. Seemingly more lost as young adults, "A" and "B" struggle to comprehend their childhood while moving forward and being autonomous. </div>
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The book is not without its fun moments and decent storytelling vignettes, but overall this plot just did not do it for me. I kept waiting for something really stellar to happen, and it never did. However, it definitely made me revisit my ideas about what constitutes art. (The performance pieces described within the chapters don't make the cut for me.) Although worth a lazy-day read, I won't be picking this one up again or strongly recommending it to others. Based on a very quick Google search, it appears that Nicole Kidman is starring in and producing the movie adaptation, coming soon. I'll probably Redbox it. :)</div>
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Sample quote from the prologue:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mr. and Mrs. Fang called it art. Their children called it mischief. "You make a mess and then you walk away from it," their daughter, Annie, told them. "It's a lot more complicated than that, honey," Mrs. Fang said...</span></div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-8388667174101518432013-02-04T19:57:00.001-06:002013-02-04T19:57:19.021-06:00Pre-Spring Cleaning: Bathroom<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm in the midst of a no-spend first quarter yet again, and so far I give myself a grade of B. A must-have night of skee ball at Dave & Buster's plus outrageously expensive gummy bears do not a resolution make. Whoops.</div>
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But that got me to thinking about a quote I read somewhere. Or I may have seen it on a rerun of The <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-things-that-matter.html" target="_blank">Nate</a> Show. Anywho, it goes something like this...It doesn't cost much to have a clean home. I know this sounds awfully trite, but think about it. You're hopefully following a regular cleaning regimen as it is, so you're already investing in cleaning supplies, even if they're minimal.</div>
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Not much is better than walking into a clean, fresh-smelling, and tidy place. I know I've blogged about it <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2009/07/fresh-start-to-week.html" target="_blank">before</a>, but Sundays are typically my day to make this happen. And I try to do so in the greenest way possible. I thought I'd start a new lil' series about pre-spring cleaning. What better place to start than the ol' bathroom?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5_Xs6VUysFDak9J4AJMls_ovns_1K2PoFPyFJpgzPxM7wphVQzan8kFPT2_YGt_XLALl7ALXuKOFe1-S9FwRdxFHDsISClbWwFBGa_4s4xcSvTdnAYglrpQCdzq8y2Qp6j036aL9GjKz/s1600/method.bathroom.kit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5_Xs6VUysFDak9J4AJMls_ovns_1K2PoFPyFJpgzPxM7wphVQzan8kFPT2_YGt_XLALl7ALXuKOFe1-S9FwRdxFHDsISClbWwFBGa_4s4xcSvTdnAYglrpQCdzq8y2Qp6j036aL9GjKz/s320/method.bathroom.kit.jpg" width="294" /></a></div>
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I have oft proclaimed my love of method. And these <a href="http://methodhome.com/shop/bathroom-cleaning-kit/" target="_blank">three products</a> are some of my favorites. I (try to) use the daily shower spray every time I step out of the shower to keep mold and mildew at bay. The ylang ylang fragrance is quite nice, and it makes the whole room smell so fresh and so clean, clean. Don't forget to spray the shower curtain liner, too. It really does make a huge difference.</div>
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I use the antibac toilet bowl cleanser about every 2-3 weeks with a scrub brush. And the bathroom cleaner spray is handy for the sink, faucets, and countertop. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6M_4_9-iTzRJZWrnWAxzgJMeNWgAcpX1dR3C-gwvwpvvs561u4KY2JNP56tB-ptRtO-H2AkTbhQzIM5Yw-I3TDKJpN_6LU2GzoHSO5ojxF2kSFTsHXZw6Bq1LgddWQXfqebjzsN7icPX/s1600/plain.toothbrush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6M_4_9-iTzRJZWrnWAxzgJMeNWgAcpX1dR3C-gwvwpvvs561u4KY2JNP56tB-ptRtO-H2AkTbhQzIM5Yw-I3TDKJpN_6LU2GzoHSO5ojxF2kSFTsHXZw6Bq1LgddWQXfqebjzsN7icPX/s320/plain.toothbrush.jpg" width="104" /></a></div>
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That spray, along with a plain ol' toothbrush, is also good to use as follows. Pull the drain plug in the sink; spray the stopper, basin, and faucet. Let it soak for about 5 minutes, and then use the brush to make everything sparkle. Run hot water to rinse. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2bCfWxxAmZzXbgS8XgHiZoMWi40yPjQJp4dkQ1mPEdjGBY_ZxJMkWWWS_aU85bQ7tKsVdszGP7Exgpeyg_O_WoRnbfEUy-hZGzPz2M-2YfU53l8nwxXXKZey_aNfR9SKtUk9gU9MynQpw/s1600/scrubbing.bubbles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2bCfWxxAmZzXbgS8XgHiZoMWi40yPjQJp4dkQ1mPEdjGBY_ZxJMkWWWS_aU85bQ7tKsVdszGP7Exgpeyg_O_WoRnbfEUy-hZGzPz2M-2YfU53l8nwxXXKZey_aNfR9SKtUk9gU9MynQpw/s1600/scrubbing.bubbles.jpg" /></a></div>
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About once a week I use these Scrubbing Bubbles flushable toilet pads (with reusable plastic wand), just to keep things hygienic. (Does anyone remember <i>Ally McBeal </i>and the guy who liked a fresh bowl?) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67gSA0Wv7wJN5_0pO1y97ximJHqLYPyj5OxBUAuU3tUsnPukFy79xgk62ldNc972GcwRgAGiRYRu-urcQekbZjIl0l9HgkqJneS94HlXNbepbdQRxpAzoFifJ4eq247YiUz8pIQCa90Ar/s1600/lysol.shower.cleaner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67gSA0Wv7wJN5_0pO1y97ximJHqLYPyj5OxBUAuU3tUsnPukFy79xgk62ldNc972GcwRgAGiRYRu-urcQekbZjIl0l9HgkqJneS94HlXNbepbdQRxpAzoFifJ4eq247YiUz8pIQCa90Ar/s1600/lysol.shower.cleaner.jpg" /></a></div>
When I start to see pink and black spots creeping in to the tub/tile, I douse them with a bit of this Lysol Bathroom Cleaner. Let stand for about 10 minutes, and use a heavy-duty brush. Turn on some hot shower water and rinse clean. Ahhh.</div>
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I also empty the bathroom trash and run the vacuum over the bathmat and floor. Tah dah. Sometimes I'll spray some glass cleaner on the mirror as well. That's really about all it takes. Normally I'll put in a load of laundry or some other chore while the cleaners are soaking and doing their thing. I hope this little guide helps you scrub-a-dub. <br />
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What are some of your favorite products?</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-75198805405843068772013-01-23T18:32:00.001-06:002013-01-23T18:32:43.111-06:00Thom Filicia Style<div style="text-align: center;">
It seems that I've been on a design-book kick as of late. First there was <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-things-that-matter.html" target="_blank">Nate</a>, and then came the <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2013/01/home-by-novogratz.html" target="_blank">Novogratz </a>edition. Now we have <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thom-Filicia-Style-Inspired-Creating/dp/B003IWYG1G" target="_blank">Thom Filica Style</a></i>. This book debuted in 2008. I found it whilst trying to reserve his latest book (<i>American Beauty</i>) via public library.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrZF65aYDUGkgoZQwieGXlUIwF0AmdiBXjZTLLNJxjklE_j636YT6Jzdt8TB26jGgWfg6_7YPBGty-GzWZhIy2j1DUHgsIa3rw-f-oK27lGU3ldjpLSpeVMU-qgbfFhlQxoZb2fhLoKTa/s1600/thom.filicia.style.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrZF65aYDUGkgoZQwieGXlUIwF0AmdiBXjZTLLNJxjklE_j636YT6Jzdt8TB26jGgWfg6_7YPBGty-GzWZhIy2j1DUHgsIa3rw-f-oK27lGU3ldjpLSpeVMU-qgbfFhlQxoZb2fhLoKTa/s320/thom.filicia.style.jpg" width="268" /></a></div>
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Divided into two main parts, this book first covers the process of decorating and then moves into case studies. The process section includes Thom's ten tips in detail (ex. "There's truth in the texture"), ten different moods that rooms can have (like organic or refined), and ways to pull everything together.</div>
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The section with case studies is very similar to the other books I mentioned in the sense that each one begins with the clients' wish lists and floor plans. However, this time there are minimum 'before' photos. The budget is not really mentioned. </div>
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This is not my favorite design book, but it's definitely worth a read. Thom has nailed that sometimes-elusive classic American style. He's a bit self-promotional, showing his own homes and product lines throughout the book, but I never got the sense that he was pimping himself out in an overt way. As with most other media, this one is a great source of inspiration and offers practical tips. </div>
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One of the best takeaways is Thom's list of can't-miss Benjamin Moore paint colors:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1076aDoVBZBEww10MN-g6n9fg_GKrL8tGZ3xnDF4aqiYZ6BxFgDQCnWm6CjSzZ9oec3lmvQbosXdGSrbv5gdJ2HYPUWqtTFpqLn4Ji6CnKtL22dO8KWkeX51303he6UXM-Zw__gBcYmoO/s1600/thom.filicia.paint.palette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1076aDoVBZBEww10MN-g6n9fg_GKrL8tGZ3xnDF4aqiYZ6BxFgDQCnWm6CjSzZ9oec3lmvQbosXdGSrbv5gdJ2HYPUWqtTFpqLn4Ji6CnKtL22dO8KWkeX51303he6UXM-Zw__gBcYmoO/s400/thom.filicia.paint.palette.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A quote from page 190 gives a great idea of Thom's philosophy:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Design that's authentic and that fits your lifestyle is a gift. The real luxury is to have an interesting life.</span></div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-70855911717387293982013-01-14T22:09:00.000-06:002013-01-14T22:09:43.760-06:00Mini Field Trip: Shop(pe)s on Fatherland<div style="text-align: center;">
On a tip from my Twitter friend/fellow Music City enthusiast (see his blog called <a href="http://experiencenash.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Experience Nashville</a>) a few pre-Christmas weeks ago, I headed back over to <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2012/11/east-nasty.html" target="_blank">East Nashville</a> to visit the <a href="http://www.shoppesonfatherland.com/" target="_blank">Shoppes on Fatherland</a> (Street). These shops (I kind of hate that Old English spelling) are small buildings, all in a row, in a very unassuming part of town. They sort of come up out of nowhere.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2m5xiVBJo38b5sZI3gHhQQ3x3WeGDyeIAXgmAjOPjMBDjoGuCmTjhtmE7iGGYULZ_MFDp-LII9iYxS16iNZgR_CMyJyh9aKdMBc8-Y0W066s-f-krLa5zoELyt6ifxJh5SbnztckKTer/s1600/fatherland.pretty.sign.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2m5xiVBJo38b5sZI3gHhQQ3x3WeGDyeIAXgmAjOPjMBDjoGuCmTjhtmE7iGGYULZ_MFDp-LII9iYxS16iNZgR_CMyJyh9aKdMBc8-Y0W066s-f-krLa5zoELyt6ifxJh5SbnztckKTer/s320/fatherland.pretty.sign.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The first stop was a bath and body place called <a href="http://www.prettyprettypoppop.com/" target="_blank">Pretty Pretty Pop Pop</a>, which specializes in eco- and animal-friendly products. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jJetUWCGujom_aqf62WergAEIDclX6LmUIbO7PcmLwYoXz7S6lRCJohKPmqfI-c2EIbgnopb4j5BAPde3l_7S05YemwqkItOk45HIyOSq-jWOVgfeexK4njitU3jhY_aIYzzE4y2oe8Z/s1600/fatherland.pretty.display.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jJetUWCGujom_aqf62WergAEIDclX6LmUIbO7PcmLwYoXz7S6lRCJohKPmqfI-c2EIbgnopb4j5BAPde3l_7S05YemwqkItOk45HIyOSq-jWOVgfeexK4njitU3jhY_aIYzzE4y2oe8Z/s320/fatherland.pretty.display.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The store has a very clean but lived-in aesthetic. If that makes any sense.</div>
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Here are some of their house-brand candles (by zodiac).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9q44zJnQ6WUzTFUlBzxmZXQ76fJ8HMr4Qkgbds0L59H07edd8yuJvfSrBPcJ8IzNxNi8pEjOTbI-HsrvPq6RMtJ1Ba9uwz11ka3Od43-9VEWgLYX607O2JKkJhXCWRIXjxKs7ApQ1HTLY/s1600/fatherland.pretty.lip.balms.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9q44zJnQ6WUzTFUlBzxmZXQ76fJ8HMr4Qkgbds0L59H07edd8yuJvfSrBPcJ8IzNxNi8pEjOTbI-HsrvPq6RMtJ1Ba9uwz11ka3Od43-9VEWgLYX607O2JKkJhXCWRIXjxKs7ApQ1HTLY/s320/fatherland.pretty.lip.balms.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lip balms, anyone? I had to refrain from buying anything. My pal Kate did not.</div>
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The next stop was <a href="http://moxiefearlessfurnishings.com/" target="_blank">Moxie</a>, which showcases a mix of new and vintage items for the home and for giving. They had some great toys, candles, and furniture. If only I'd had the space to house the awesome mid-century couch and chair set that they had. *sigh*</div>
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We also popped into <a href="http://www.highgardentea.com/" target="_blank">High Garden Tea</a>. As you can tell from the picture, they're serious about their tea here. It was meticulously decanted and stored alphabetically. </div>
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Now, I'll admit that I was not completely bowled over by the whole experience. Some of the shops seemed a little out of place. It would be akin to sneaking a Hershey bar into a box of Godivas. (There was a lack of consistency and quality is what I'm trying to convey.)</div>
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Overall, though, the stores that got it right more than made up for the others. I'll definitely be going back...after my <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2009/12/ching-clink-ching.html" target="_blank">no-spend first quarter</a>. It's that time again.</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-1328231429563231762013-01-10T18:45:00.002-06:002013-01-10T18:45:58.948-06:00Warby Parker Class Trip: Nashville<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm so far behind on this post that it's not even funny at this point. But alas--it must be shared.</div>
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<a href="http://www.warbyparkerclasstrip.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAngczUzkMtMRIB_PJxaO9NW5FqOMDfvlDYBbIOkVIhYhwXjBN-aoncL0tC0hNKnmYLnFvHF1E1bK0j4MuHSFHoPyT3dRwrK1qTDwwWWHfLv3SqHCrLsa3Da6gHFg7hq9i2PLviz8uwQ8c/s320/wp.map.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A few months ago: Imagine my autumnal surprise to learn that <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/" target="_blank">Warby Parker</a>, my <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/search?q=warby" target="_blank">beloved</a> buy-one-donate-one purveyor of reasonably priced specs, was doing a <a href="http://www.warbyparkerclasstrip.com/" target="_blank">"class" trip</a> around the country. And Nashville was one of the destinations. (In case you haven't heard, we're the newest IT city. Not like internal technology. Like the shiz.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIE0fScE8a0tuG5Z3HufjCfnPWGqLgjvSMqI12_gMX3YX-ZVO4VCj0PJEON3zSMMfg-V4wMiuJ9-wnlj3THMxP8Y4LGfrdYKJhtPPAG7VgnLu9RQ7LD1PxyaOpjqSWKGyFpUQ8apZrro2/s1600/wp.chalkboard.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIE0fScE8a0tuG5Z3HufjCfnPWGqLgjvSMqI12_gMX3YX-ZVO4VCj0PJEON3zSMMfg-V4wMiuJ9-wnlj3THMxP8Y4LGfrdYKJhtPPAG7VgnLu9RQ7LD1PxyaOpjqSWKGyFpUQ8apZrro2/s320/wp.chalkboard.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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They converted a schoolbus into a rolling optical library and took it on the road. Locally they stopped at super-buzzworthy custom denim store <a href="http://www.imogeneandwillie.com/" target="_blank">Imogene + Willie</a>. See how they turned the front part of the bus into a chalkboard? Maybe a bit overdone in interior design by now but super cool on a dang schoolbus.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirES8vOu8O0ufc3ShJNJhavebwBsubfa1q26qla68PQdyIhex4UJ5N_SRGY9U9b8wTzQC77LJtvfM3WUVDyvKuMgl6ugVRF14ZNbyt8eRrstTOtBMXwOhorNxr3Emhiw8qfsYXdVeJ1IXc/s1600/wp.shelves.1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirES8vOu8O0ufc3ShJNJhavebwBsubfa1q26qla68PQdyIhex4UJ5N_SRGY9U9b8wTzQC77LJtvfM3WUVDyvKuMgl6ugVRF14ZNbyt8eRrstTOtBMXwOhorNxr3Emhiw8qfsYXdVeJ1IXc/s320/wp.shelves.1.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCNEWZ7qCPmu8lxpK8v6hqEJ1__0Gx54TbCl8erMR7IcMHMYEjpbeHpqePAHtpOiyWjhesF12721AFSNck3EQ4QeduoysjtvG8eKrDAHhzWS7iVMqAiKi4E93RpMJktJ_dMZJt1sDd4cf7/s1600/wp.shelves.2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCNEWZ7qCPmu8lxpK8v6hqEJ1__0Gx54TbCl8erMR7IcMHMYEjpbeHpqePAHtpOiyWjhesF12721AFSNck3EQ4QeduoysjtvG8eKrDAHhzWS7iVMqAiKi4E93RpMJktJ_dMZJt1sDd4cf7/s320/wp.shelves.2.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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See how they had all the specs lined up, just ripe for the pluckin'? It was like heaven. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8sFQgZLjuS9XP63COwHxhH3yjxazGvT8pAsEXm3uuVEtO9jysai7goeHOjZzoz6jCF9QpD7cKeUXQNls8IphpXCh3jO1FSVvVBjMCmBql9U3Yybjf5WJVMuVENNIqz9L6q67uhZuANkZ/s1600/wp.card.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8sFQgZLjuS9XP63COwHxhH3yjxazGvT8pAsEXm3uuVEtO9jysai7goeHOjZzoz6jCF9QpD7cKeUXQNls8IphpXCh3jO1FSVvVBjMCmBql9U3Yybjf5WJVMuVENNIqz9L6q67uhZuANkZ/s320/wp.card.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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They even had library cards to keep up with the frames you like the most. Then there was a photo booth right outside the bus. My coworker/friend Candice had gone with me, and we definitely cheesed for the camera.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9sdqo4XYKGmOPIQDcLOqTcCkpAJ5jJRvxMudbRGaBSEfs03h863S_w7R39ao_rfFPu4Zv3yF2cb6Ucn6HEzflVjyRrkITRN5M2Tf0OeAC04PY-lM_gLcE7hy9uJwzdKV7_aHgHDjWQu9/s1600/wp.imogene.cross.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9sdqo4XYKGmOPIQDcLOqTcCkpAJ5jJRvxMudbRGaBSEfs03h863S_w7R39ao_rfFPu4Zv3yF2cb6Ucn6HEzflVjyRrkITRN5M2Tf0OeAC04PY-lM_gLcE7hy9uJwzdKV7_aHgHDjWQu9/s320/wp.imogene.cross.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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While I was right there, I decided to go into Imogene's, which now has a permanent Warby Parker try-on boutique.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif94sObUIyGk0y6IQkDOmYSbRYFZ-fKEp3ZF0CcbnUfyn2KwWEeeSSCldbFRXiAE9gSz0WcznKcruBpH0AR8c0pUx74u_MKeJplzZqtkE6Mrv10J5Ddm4694A_Rng1PdHf76ZNEShw7nmT/s1600/wp.imogene.warby.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif94sObUIyGk0y6IQkDOmYSbRYFZ-fKEp3ZF0CcbnUfyn2KwWEeeSSCldbFRXiAE9gSz0WcznKcruBpH0AR8c0pUx74u_MKeJplzZqtkE6Mrv10J5Ddm4694A_Rng1PdHf76ZNEShw7nmT/s320/wp.imogene.warby.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Right?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28k8OWAl7cH4n3WP5I87vxDT6OhVlPPcHOocIpO5mkiQ-_gTsBb8jzKVmoyqvsxyiKoRaBd53hhkN21QmYfHF-GPtoTVS_an1X-d2yU5z_tBgp8i9xONZo9HRoabxROeuOOHhA4NdC5HN/s1600/wp.imogene.store.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28k8OWAl7cH4n3WP5I87vxDT6OhVlPPcHOocIpO5mkiQ-_gTsBb8jzKVmoyqvsxyiKoRaBd53hhkN21QmYfHF-GPtoTVS_an1X-d2yU5z_tBgp8i9xONZo9HRoabxROeuOOHhA4NdC5HN/s320/wp.imogene.store.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The main part of the store has excellent style. They have rolls of denim up near the ceiling, next to dozens of custom paper patterns. (They make jeans to order.) It's a bit pricey for me but a fun store nonetheless.</div>
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As if I could not have been more in love with WP at that point, I came home a couple of weeks later to find the following on my doorstep.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawxhCVxrrmWBNm2NKYAC6xuUodC_75aZh8R3bb7EJBRf1zvZjqmsCEQ61I_tqo5EhVAarLyi63EMc3xv-XlGOkj2-QHxoxmPYYh_G_XWu_5OVYTV9JE-cAkSGY_syLnmJ0zZ9iY1Y4XoM/s1600/wp.gift.message.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawxhCVxrrmWBNm2NKYAC6xuUodC_75aZh8R3bb7EJBRf1zvZjqmsCEQ61I_tqo5EhVAarLyi63EMc3xv-XlGOkj2-QHxoxmPYYh_G_XWu_5OVYTV9JE-cAkSGY_syLnmJ0zZ9iY1Y4XoM/s320/wp.gift.message.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And inside....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuD4LbNz2_gXypjlXFYiVX8wRFw4mPSOko8ar4Y3wuUzDmLJ-5BFUYoWLYkrMEM2ohDN5hEZbxAcshOTT_VKw773EBvW1_ytc7jTx6xA5odIe35RhHEo27p43uIYqutuHbj1K3wvB6GcZm/s1600/wp.gift.cookie.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuD4LbNz2_gXypjlXFYiVX8wRFw4mPSOko8ar4Y3wuUzDmLJ-5BFUYoWLYkrMEM2ohDN5hEZbxAcshOTT_VKw773EBvW1_ytc7jTx6xA5odIe35RhHEo27p43uIYqutuHbj1K3wvB6GcZm/s320/wp.gift.cookie.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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What in the world could be better than a specs-y Santa sugar cookie? I pretty much lost my mind at that point.</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-82398485327486642742013-01-03T21:47:00.000-06:002013-01-03T21:47:02.065-06:00Home By Novogratz<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVwfSx-uf_NyAQOMzE_wtan_JIEB2xrawLPCzuQHExjCi_muZQHclXER43RXaYDT47id87r_C_F5Z4v4rVEhIuIYuQCm917SP0KxfwGQ5p3PjbIcUBfDl3y6vFaYHHjCFDBtiQM2QA0NuZ/s1600/home.by.novogratz.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVwfSx-uf_NyAQOMzE_wtan_JIEB2xrawLPCzuQHExjCi_muZQHclXER43RXaYDT47id87r_C_F5Z4v4rVEhIuIYuQCm917SP0KxfwGQ5p3PjbIcUBfDl3y6vFaYHHjCFDBtiQM2QA0NuZ/s320/home.by.novogratz.JPG" width="288" /></a></div>
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Do you know the Novogratz crew? It's a husband/wife design team, and they happen to have seven kids. Yes, seven. I had always seen listings on HGTV for <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/home-by-novogratz/show/index.html" target="_blank">their show</a> and thought that it was some real estate/staging show that would not hold my interest, so I skipped it for a while.</div>
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One day I caught it, and it was like Touched By A Kardashian (in the sense that it sucks you in). They live in New York and design some super cool spaces. All this is not to say that their style is my style. It's not, but I do appreciate it.</div>
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In their book Bob and Cortney N. show off some of their proudest design moments, job by job. It's very similar in layout to the latest <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-things-that-matter.html" target="_blank">Nate Berkus book</a>, but this time the budget and actual expenditures are included. If you watched the most recent season of their show, then you won't get too many visual surprises from this book because they use spaces from most every episode. It is nice that they can write where they sourced some of the pieces, though.</div>
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Although I will soon return this volume to the library, I'm glad I took the time to read/look through it. Their style is way more colorful and kooky than mine, but they really do think about things like audience (i.e., kid/pet-friendliness), scale, and budget. It's a refreshing change. Sample quote from page 175:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When everything matches perfectly, a room can look as if it was copied straight from a catalog.</span></div>
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I don't see this as a bad thing, but I guess it depends on what catalog you prefer.</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-82230913266085562452012-12-12T18:22:00.001-06:002012-12-12T18:23:47.072-06:00Guest Post Alert!<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, I don't know if it's technically a guest post, but I am featured on my blog pal Ashley's <a href="http://smittenandswell.blogspot.com/2012/12/need-read-greed_12.html" target="_blank">Need Read Greed</a> column over on <a href="http://smittenandswell.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">One Fine Day</a>. Check it out! And enjoy the other wonderful parts of her super fun and stylish blog while you're at it.</div>
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<a href="http://smittenandswell.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmzZPohyphenhyphennbQkUH2VRbPLBgwn1AHwShOr2x-eJpRcIioxJdgshiBLMN1fNEaHZ4ORM646qghemCm2EmF4IiXhjwMKc9bbw4eR05OyoVfVm0-1kZMGEiN0uaysDrZpgsleB2eS295MyZQxk/s200/one.fine.day.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Thanks, Ashley!</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-88176527912376855722012-12-11T12:00:00.000-06:002012-12-11T12:00:08.295-06:00Gift Guide 2012: Paper Edition<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, you know I love this one. Paper is my favorite thing in life, and with this gift guide I always try to think beyond "just" notecards.</div>
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<a href="http://www.lindaandharriett.com/pc/2013calendar/current-projects/2013+Letterpress+Calendar" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V3D_y0FMaQt67qvKwFlkMy9TDFNu8wZsJWM-rAwUp-QpAyhcWQG7yqt87wIf_vJZDydR6jQg96LCtHcd7bgKVj1iYDikf02tYTIlnMceIWMSf-wlkajAVl7znoDua-9bHpdOqkNs5r-R/s320/linda.and.harriett.2013.calendar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A <a href="http://www.lindaandharriett.com/pc/2013calendar/current-projects/2013+Letterpress+Calendar" target="_blank">Linda & Harriett calendar</a>. I literally start every year with one of these. A larger size than before and letterpressed to the hilt, this is paper at its nicest. With designs that double as postcards. $34</div>
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<a href="http://bluemonocle.com/vintage-photos/p/25359/dupont-circle-washington-dc" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngCv_wP7bSZ5hgGbPJI03AmrK2DpEZusAM4AAxCG_JL305Spia0_34ZpWr13Wh9WMjtGXhxMKlB9yDo8_RWvzeogNKJIIQT7p4G9oeZ8WaVJRLvtfpD7lHHli2lB-WsrLFNnvjn0dAyuI/s1600/blue.monocle.photo.jpg" /></a></div>
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A reproduction <a href="http://bluemonocle.com/vintage-photos/p/25359/dupont-circle-washington-dc" target="_blank">photo of DuPont Circle</a> from Blue Monocle. This company makes reproduction photos <i>and</i> maps of places all over. Choose a special place in the recipient's life. from $25</div>
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<a href="http://1canoe2.com/item/Acorn-Notepad/190/c29" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaA_gHVZcrkGv5fyJdTXHdpqO4aCO8TcaoqCRSq5nrGWxPVeVGCP6UpLX7bttYRAqLjGBVm2ol2sGwysNWTEsMzqR8ahbbFFUJikI9Hf2N-OZ7S8LI4eCVIvF8R9NmZe2kJRhjlmx7ROi/s320/1canoe2.acorn.notepad.jpg" width="320" /></a><span id="goog_1864306585"></span><span id="goog_1864306586"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
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An <a href="http://1canoe2.com/item/Acorn-Notepad/190/c29" target="_blank">acorn notepad</a> from 1canoe2. This is just fun. I love the deep green background on the cover. You get 75 sheets and a whole lot of charm. $13</div>
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<a href="http://shop.scoutshonorco.com/product/the-adventure-begins-print" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCTEdizbPyts-IgQvwjZ0XIbymajUUwFF1YGxpMjVEh5dhL6dsOlg2yp9GyzmG6ypRStfXgnl27KYQRUVOtGvv-XXS9_xyyruMLJ25oQbG2baWsrvPk4zZw7_BGGlFQ5z9_3Qt8j9q-HkL/s320/scouts.honor.print.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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An <a href="http://shop.scoutshonorco.com/product/the-adventure-begins-print" target="_blank">adventure print</a> from Scout's Honor Co. I <i>love</i> the typography and simplicity happening here. This 5x7 size has such a nice price that you can splurge on a frame. $12</div>
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<a href="http://riflepaperco.com/item/Pony_Express_Postcards/276/c59" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeygrZqruMtQjnYD2Dab6Re-mUK20mAUSp8AUpFIsZJwgsS6jwsYNhs8oGZtK1tjQkQR5AXa_YM300_kq-LJaDAW4DckAKe2yojUtP9DMJiaopSGsxRPl2BPoqHyEiKoNuLhpd6cNINFPm/s320/rifle.paper.pony.express.postcards.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://riflepaperco.com/item/Pony_Express_Postcards/276/c59" target="_blank">Pony Express postcards</a> from Rifle Paper Co. It's really hard to go wrong with Rifle. This is a set of 10 cards, and postage on these is cheaper than on normal cards. It's a Christmas miracle. $10</div>
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<a href="http://www.heartfishpress.com/shop-note-cards/pattern-note-cards-blue-stripes/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh08Z4ZGNNNBfOvXOq90pyMUy_RHs6WvEegyAOjcrwP-8ImU9xLQ3g1yufFbLTXI5jJowDaNvQXnz2QQWWd2yU08-WrByhI3jjStM4_DC8VeKytcazPKnHNu3u-Zt-6YphU9NQMmsZbUyMe/s320/heartfish.press.striped.notecards.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.heartfishpress.com/shop-note-cards/pattern-note-cards-blue-stripes/" target="_blank">Striped letterpress notecards</a> from Heartfish Press. Stripes and letterpress? Sold. This is a set of six. $16</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-41758335017281589282012-12-10T18:27:00.000-06:002012-12-10T18:27:03.166-06:00Gift Guide 2012: House and Home Edition<div style="text-align: center;">
For house and home, I like simple, useful items that don't cost a ton of funds. This year I'm going fairly practical yet stylish, which may not come as a surprise to my regular readers. :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.fishseddy.com/browse.cfm/4,4541.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjgBpyvysMSd8WYAzs1S3Zso7TLllW6eF_80tV-CT-dhyphenhyphen33NAulGVDYfue0_9o9RqUPH_9DDDy7mFcTLl4D7lgJ9JVq06VBzYTPfIdHapqS2cKtINBT1znQI3Mkx2zM5jRQrwxcH_8N0O_/s1600/lotta.bowl.jpg" /></a></div>
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A <a href="http://www.fishseddy.com/browse.cfm/4,4541.html" target="_blank">Lotta Jansdotter square bowl</a> by way of Fishs Eddy. Oh, yes. At first glance, this may seem to be a mere bowl for snacks, but think of the possibilities as a jewelry holder, coin collector, or paper clip cozy. $16.95</div>
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<a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/gift-ideas/gifts-under-25/3-piece-wood-handled-cheese-tool-set/s359106" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcJSF3f9_24oG4p1Now9HpdeNqV28kyJqdTDatuWNeosxfcCSIBGDafxB2q69ig3gCdtkEPGRA1cautwT0H_iYbjkFjJyIwVJY1KfqjN3Znd649Y9SwCMoZq5AiLehh7nE-19g46O8H27y/s320/crate.and.barrel.cheese.tool.set.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A <a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/gift-ideas/gifts-under-25/3-piece-wood-handled-cheese-tool-set/s359106" target="_blank">cheese tool set</a> from Crate and Barrel. Right now this acacia-wood-handled trio ships free. Isn't it handsome? For a cheese tool set. $19.95</div>
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<a href="http://theknottery.com/more/watch-bands/solid-color-nylon-straps.html?oId=68" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkJnPZFymCbiygbM-dY5TaG17Q3cK-_QH0KMnpEPlkCUVxiJEcIDp02XCGjM5FF7YVWTydtWpcPovcCeF-VunG88SsRuT5kYZ0xoQsrx-pCg_EMfsqaTXdcWVN5QcZxPILkEUrSWRGyiB/s320/watch.strap.jpg" width="320" /></a><span id="goog_1864306507"></span><span id="goog_1864306508"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
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A <a href="http://theknottery.com/more/watch-bands/solid-color-nylon-straps.html?oId=68" target="_blank">nylon watch strap</a> from The Knottery. Did you think that this came from another retailer? Like one that induces mass-hysteria in bloggers around the globe? Well, this piece is half of what they charge. $10</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/103262931/restaurantware-lunch-plates-modern" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGKB5AUgRBvym6OMOB7krfE9i-kwzlUhSOX1NUsqYOErVcZ1LuocaUNw8UOksDnF_W-GAdGg-agJe6EORcWGnIGwcZP9AkbGh7HeVdAcmK01Cr7v5pVJ-ObgcW3jXHZ3xJ0MQHfDtEO5d/s320/white.plates.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A set of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/103262931/restaurantware-lunch-plates-modern" target="_blank">six white restaurantware plates</a> from tribute212. You really can't go wrong with a classic. These are the oxford shirts of tabletop dressing. They go with anything and last forever. $26</div>
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<a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/mrk-black-blum-bento-box-d409/?pkey=e%7Cbento%7C3%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C24%7C%7C2&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-NoMerchRules-_-" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaGRS6eM6NSa-aZVXqituuvrS3IIxWzpbl74ih2arVrlDhrJMuCIDfD1lOPIuvARzK7LXm2MCfDE-LNPVkpvcFygecBE4XO1ZtfQ8hnUmib7Iv1QcBBAjX5U9cwutIXlEw9ChVQrSMNls/s320/bento.box.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/mrk-black-blum-bento-box-d409/?pkey=e%7Cbento%7C3%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C24%7C%7C2&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-NoMerchRules-_-" target="_blank">bento box set</a> from West Elm. Let's brown bag it in 2013, shall we? This makes the job much more stylish and green, with a watertight seal, reusable fork, and a sauce container. Free shipping right now. $22</div>
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<a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10026876&N=&Ns=p_sort_default%7C0&Ntt=package+opener" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYidKso4y2SL_rs56ACcIU0rG_whnKdrGeFxNzp0T0VlFctKJJDcfvN3r36ABGgP8EHv8UN3I5OT0Uyski8kLij95Jcw9u218WUue8h8VNwsJQUAeU3naezl9MoSc4X8oQ3D1pYqC6Ia3x/s1600/package.opener.jpg" /></a></div>
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A <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10026876&N=&Ns=p_sort_default%7C0&Ntt=package+opener" target="_blank">package opener</a> from The Container Store. I bought one of these about a year ago, and it has paid for itself many times over in saved frustrations. Perfect for slicing into packages of all ilk. $4.99</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-73271243900344018322012-12-03T21:03:00.003-06:002012-12-03T21:03:47.777-06:00Gift Guide 2012: Etsy Edition<div style="text-align: center;">
Who doesn't love a gift guide? From the onslaught of magazine lineups to the buffet-like selection shown on blogs, they typically give great ideas and inspire my inner St. Nick. As I did last year, I'm going to break up my gift guides into three categories over the next few days. And again, my attempt is to offer a variety of options for a range of recipients, all at a reasonable price.</div>
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First up is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy</a>. It's easy and secure to shop, and you're bound to find limitless possibilities. These are mine for this season.</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65582763/geometric-brass-and-oxidized-silver" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5mxWtCK5UilbZkNkGAbqR3mh8FMR1C9I3N-p-yOqtSlvMZPJpgIFzsB9Hyxsj5opvHzdpuxLRdq_HY2iUn0MdfXg1c2yGFwNTl454e5Thu5fUuURH2pV_VTlLco1lg_CU8svSqXZV4Ia/s320/geometric.necklace.jpg" width="320" /></a><span id="goog_117669853"></span><span id="goog_117669854"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
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A <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65582763/geometric-brass-and-oxidized-silver" target="_blank">geometric necklace</a> from SD Marie Jewelry. It's made of brass and oxidized silver, and it's a subtle nod to the chevron trend that won't feel dated this time next year. $35</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/103190669/vanilla-hazelnut-soy-candle-in-8oz" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5t1_RiMXGEmO6vGAKCYKRyuhZ8d497rVGGfjrsvy9b5-oBUXg-DCGgOzH2YTZ-ftJdZBVtSwqTqy1yqbJ4D_K5Y2O2jfZbl4eoTsvPF7a6O_ksfwHgoB0FrA_azoPuYmOetdVLreVebAb/s320/oil.and.waxcandle.jpg" width="284" /></a></div>
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A <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/103190669/vanilla-hazelnut-soy-candle-in-8oz" target="_blank">vanilla hazelnut candle</a> from Oil & Wax. Made of soy wax here in Nashville, this gem is a real treat. I bought one a few weeks ago, and it won't be my last. $16</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/97082567/there-their-theyre-grammar-art-cheeky" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-lbBPcuJjw2BZBrJu_EHFINAk4yqcHJcWd7B43ORExJaJlz8OtenwlgjX9MAWuFx_4VYA3_CXNqcqdP5TDHT0Ma4HPwcZ8FXmQjziP0xUkxqmc7Ir_lNNtTQkMApfAvv1QujvOhXrRww/s320/grammar.print.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A cheeky <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/97082567/there-their-theyre-grammar-art-cheeky" target="_blank">grammar print</a> from Alphonnsine. This piece serves as a gentle reminder and will go a long way in saving the English language in a world of text-messaging fiends. $19</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73975026/retro-octopus-02-eco-friendly-canvas" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-DgTPvW3nJ1BsHe92_EQXMyveVD4E6QkjUkD0L6afXBY5MpSdaAMfWywjq6-8LZZtGj4kyaKNVCAOPRA1bT3O0oNPUx7d1RlCDGtZJ574qrki5vJv64X_w_Ls4o3R6D7KGZvtqY7T8jDN/s320/octopus.tote.bag.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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An <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73975026/retro-octopus-02-eco-friendly-canvas" target="_blank">octopus tote bag</a> from Idiopix. It's eco-friendly and has an octopus on it. I feel like the octopus is the new bird. $13.95</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63528343/stand-by-your-mandarin" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qBquny1DX9Mm3HsZkdSCx0nQH0M5eZugx6h7X5lgoeE2Hrrs-DI2Q74bdHbzuuy0fO_Dw7TeEFMDNLfalqytQI-NBqD7ZXfjxxKrYB0dT8sWPfUxLy2rjPQBMA3-wQ-eWT_MFk7TZWKf/s320/music.city.suds.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A bar of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63528343/stand-by-your-mandarin" target="_blank">Stand by Your Mandarin soap</a> from Music City Suds. This is another Nashville original, which I love and have given before. It's all-natural and scented with citrus. $6</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94533866/custom-personalized-self-inking-stamp" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyCI9g1l9IQeSoZH3KjpVOOFOs3G-6zad4DpQP7T98EmtkaJaXio6IZyK0M_ZZWPkCHRhuWhizh17uwwZ2D00Wn9B-VTj5vLaWPS6DFJySdmSRj_Unobe1zjwgH5H41ENkLi5mUAngIo8/s320/return.address.stamp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94533866/custom-personalized-self-inking-stamp" target="_blank">return address stamp</a> from Foryoo. I love this idea for newlyweds, new home owners, or anyone with an established address. They will, too. $29.95</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 20.78333282470703px;">(Note: I received permission from all sellers to use their images and to link to their Etsy stores.)</span></div>
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Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-4676764606407697272012-11-18T23:56:00.002-06:002012-11-18T23:56:21.165-06:00East Nasty<div align="center">
This weekend I ventured out to East Nashville, which some folks lovingly call East Nasty. That was really my first true visit there. I'd eaten a meal or two across the bridge, but Saturday my pal Emily B. and I took our sweet time. Below are some photographic highlights.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_0MR8sBak43tUbu0VzFRyzIPWiM1qvTAXXbSfM0K9kMAu2FBEjgJ3iCpXiIsyiQh-0PmzDOv-MBIHBAdtWk_EaWGAwMpIfhyphenhyphenbI_9BtzggoPjUeined3gzKolAe5qesR4tAIg8Q-7k4Ah/s1600/wonders.office.supplies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_0MR8sBak43tUbu0VzFRyzIPWiM1qvTAXXbSfM0K9kMAu2FBEjgJ3iCpXiIsyiQh-0PmzDOv-MBIHBAdtWk_EaWGAwMpIfhyphenhyphenbI_9BtzggoPjUeined3gzKolAe5qesR4tAIg8Q-7k4Ah/s320/wonders.office.supplies.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Perhaps my favorite stop was Wonders on Woodland, which is an excellent antiques store on Woodland Street. Unfortunately, they do not have a website. What I liked most was that this shop was highly curated. It is not what Barb (my mom) would call a <em>dig store</em>. I had office supply envy just inside the door.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2O2xcmlF_djzWKXCTYHmiE24kH5l6IfADrgJ2T_pAPxAojRQLNtisXmgwzJPrkJp_ZgAn4CTDSzc4f1oDg1o65oEc0HjXgBbkmQz0hlS38Dqx1rgETQ34v2iantmWVzQiVvHZ0HMk1wcj/s1600/wonders.mantel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2O2xcmlF_djzWKXCTYHmiE24kH5l6IfADrgJ2T_pAPxAojRQLNtisXmgwzJPrkJp_ZgAn4CTDSzc4f1oDg1o65oEc0HjXgBbkmQz0hlS38Dqx1rgETQ34v2iantmWVzQiVvHZ0HMk1wcj/s320/wonders.mantel.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Upstairs was this mantelpiece with artwork. The one in the middle reminded me of Joni Mitchell.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYv8zz6uho8_9p7B3UUBVJqqPOSRMC7pOLF2g4s67_TZLHhsabujh1CQhsCYm_UAymF7-SlyLkmuf0jierYwtjF_CHkYfEA41X9imWbSvTiyAVdl-UCLEnni-v472xEfcRzhFLeysJOfQT/s1600/wonders.chairs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYv8zz6uho8_9p7B3UUBVJqqPOSRMC7pOLF2g4s67_TZLHhsabujh1CQhsCYm_UAymF7-SlyLkmuf0jierYwtjF_CHkYfEA41X9imWbSvTiyAVdl-UCLEnni-v472xEfcRzhFLeysJOfQT/s320/wonders.chairs.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Don't these chairs fulfill your every <em>Mad Men</em> fantasy?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAy-lzNGCfAKQD95cfoFo93UNutl9S3vb1aIBX2ONjayisaWNBiD9T7Zqp6DJySea_h2bywVcfpcPMZI-TJYRIelgyl4pkoDucrN03fkuLUCEdXhI97vR39S5VDJPJ_5QIdiHxH0w7_U2Y/s1600/wonders.deco.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAy-lzNGCfAKQD95cfoFo93UNutl9S3vb1aIBX2ONjayisaWNBiD9T7Zqp6DJySea_h2bywVcfpcPMZI-TJYRIelgyl4pkoDucrN03fkuLUCEdXhI97vR39S5VDJPJ_5QIdiHxH0w7_U2Y/s320/wonders.deco.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This was a nice deco installation.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkQSy_kbVWh70KvbYd4I_U43tBFBpqblB1gjBZoAhahK8f23Bb-SsxUqbXNeGr1MWUWh1VRLpm9pVsU8kzUH4mmumVQMdnUQWJ7T6zue9hyphenhyphenPDYINQDxDzgHc1TjTx78cL-s4ug1x1boTT/s1600/omg.epic.shit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkQSy_kbVWh70KvbYd4I_U43tBFBpqblB1gjBZoAhahK8f23Bb-SsxUqbXNeGr1MWUWh1VRLpm9pVsU8kzUH4mmumVQMdnUQWJ7T6zue9hyphenhyphenPDYINQDxDzgHc1TjTx78cL-s4ug1x1boTT/s320/omg.epic.shit.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This pillow pretty much says it all, no? It's an item at <a href="http://www.oldmadegood.com/">Old Made Good</a> on McGavock Pike. At this store, they take vintage items and often rework them to be quite whimsical. They had a whole men's room, full of old hunting memorabilia, vintage gentlemen's magazines, and lots of plaid work shirts.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSDHUy52Fe9lN7bwE37t56WyXeCJrYxdJKI3q-RZonGdxnZR9Cy_qreC2mktthKqekOx1HiHLGsxWv67qC8IjkhrHbT6QOMSYMi1PF8wHahP7B_QtkpZ5-ANrTKcS2THA-VtnnGTwdKB-/s1600/omg.specs.necklace.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSDHUy52Fe9lN7bwE37t56WyXeCJrYxdJKI3q-RZonGdxnZR9Cy_qreC2mktthKqekOx1HiHLGsxWv67qC8IjkhrHbT6QOMSYMi1PF8wHahP7B_QtkpZ5-ANrTKcS2THA-VtnnGTwdKB-/s320/omg.specs.necklace.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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And it wouldn't be a complete post without a <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/search/label/specs">specs</a> shoutout. This was a super charming necklace on display at OMG. (Isn't that clever?)</div>
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We also visited <a href="http://www.eclecticnashville.com/index.html">Eclectic Design + Boutique</a> on Porter Road, where I picked up a candle from local Etsy seller <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/OilandWax">Oil & Wax</a>. Hint: there's a great chance you'll see more on this soon.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed this min-tour through the East Nasty. And I hope you're gearing up for eating turkey, giving thanks, and spending some monies. Mazel!</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-1964209200260688982012-11-06T18:49:00.002-06:002012-11-06T18:50:30.695-06:00The Things That Matter<div align="center">
Nate Berkus is having a big fall. I guess I should say <em>autumn</em>. The other way sounds ominous. His <a href="http://www.target.com/c/nate-berkus-brand-shop/-/N-56drx">new home line</a> launched at Target a couple of weeks ago, and then his new book debuted. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkTMHCgWFwx6si1FRDMnncSI6IQwP2kZk0bb-AfuN2KD83vgds1PIAHRDJN32JCOiT3OSn7u3UjO5PwpwUPZPHpb3JJUaz4QRh8Atydaf4nEnp5Hu8mKEk-y2t-6qLQg36hrgFB1JxvXw/s1600/things.that.matter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkTMHCgWFwx6si1FRDMnncSI6IQwP2kZk0bb-AfuN2KD83vgds1PIAHRDJN32JCOiT3OSn7u3UjO5PwpwUPZPHpb3JJUaz4QRh8Atydaf4nEnp5Hu8mKEk-y2t-6qLQg36hrgFB1JxvXw/s320/things.that.matter.jpg" width="270" /></a></div>
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In <em>The Things That Matter</em>, Nate takes us on a textual journey through the living spaces of tweleve of his friends/clients and then brings it on home (whoops) with a final chapter on his own apartment. Oh, and there are lots of photos. <em>Great</em> photos. </div>
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This is by no means an original formula for a design book, but I love the message here. If you happen to have watched any of <em>The Nate Berkus Show</em> (which ended its two-season, Emmy-winning run earlier this year), then Nate's touchstones are not new for you. He is a strong proponent of having your home "rise up to greet you" with objects that are "collected over time." He loves framed photos and African beads and books. He believes that a home should tell the story of who you are.</div>
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I like the distinction he makes in the book that loving these <em>things</em> does not make us materialistic. On the contrary, they connect us to our past, to our loved ones, and to our vision of what we want our lives to be. Often the objects have little to do with the amount of money that was spent on them. Some of the subjects' favorite things are simple family heirlooms, childhood artwork, and thrift store furniture.</div>
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But there's something else at play here, and that is Nate's ability to tell a story. He begins (and ends) with his own, which includes exhilirating highs and excruciating lows, but he always deftly ties the action back to design. I wanted to get to know all of the people he features in the book--and not just because they tend to have successful careers or blogs or whatever else. They genuinely interested me, and each space is a different expression of who they are. A nice way to sum up these themes is from page 19:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For me, the most successful interiors in the world are put together by people who surround themselves with objects that bring them joy.</span></div>
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Well, for me, this book has been added to that list.</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-68824478317124275582012-10-30T00:02:00.000-05:002012-10-30T00:02:22.653-05:00The Big Three...Oh.<div align="center">
In honor/anticipation/fear of a milestone birthday, I have gone to three excellent concerts in the last few weeks. They were basically childhood fantasies come true. Please bear with me this post.</div>
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First up was Boyz II Men at the Schermerhorn, which is just <em>beautiful</em>. For those outside of Music City, let me explain. It's where the Nashville Symphony performs. Balconies. Tuxedos. Fountains. And the Boyz turned it out.</div>
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The remaining members played all of their hits with one glaring exception. (But "Motownphilly" is really not meant for symphonic accompaniment. Only Stephanie Tanner's <a href="http://youtu.be/nLaSH7o986M">dance troupe</a>.) They even covered Journey's "Open Arms" with soulful aplomb. I remember being in junior high and singing along with their album called <em>II</em>. It was epic then, and it's epic now. "Water Runs Dry" was the high point for me.</div>
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Next up was a bucket list item. Rufus Wainwright at The Ryman. (I need to take a minute.)</div>
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I have been enchanted by his very unique and crazy-gifted ability since the 1998 holiday season, when he hit the scene in a Gap commercial. Remember <a href="http://youtu.be/y1idhwIW_n4">this</a>? Hooked was I.</div>
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From <em>Rufus Wainwright</em> to <em>Poses </em>to the <em>Want</em> albums to <em>Release The Stars</em>, Rufus has been in constant rotation in my life. <em>Out of the Game</em>, his latest release, is not too shabby, either. His songs run the gamut from campy, addictive pop to heartfelt, chill-inducing ballads. But they're always smart, and sometimes his harmonies and epic moments are almost too much for my nervous system to handle. I can't say much else except that his show will hold a special place in my memory. Thanks for going, Hol.</div>
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(Unforeseen bonus: Opener Ingrid Michaelson. Especially her haunting cover of REM's "<a href="http://youtu.be/U5uH52xjvW0">Nightswimming</a>.")</div>
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And in a bit of a happy accident, I was able to see Alanis Morrissette the other night, again at The Ryman.</div>
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I really loved <em>Jagged Little Pill</em> back in the mid-90s. My brother bought it first (for his Discman, of course), but I totally borrowed it whenever I wanted. It was so unusual to hear such anger and conviction on the radio--especially coming from such a young woman. But it was time. </div>
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And then I was on board with thanking India, too. I appreciate that Alanis has stayed true to her vision, and I have to say that she was the most gracious performer I've ever seen. She kept thanking us for being there and seemed very sincere. Her "Uninvited/You Oughta Know" combo blew me away.</div>
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Today I turn 30. And I guess I've hemmed and hawed a bit the last few weeks. But it's just another day. I move into another decade of life. And it's a pretty great one. I'm healthy, and I'm happy. And I'm always working on improving. </div>
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Thanks for keeping me and my blog in mind.</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-7016776540440928452012-10-07T19:54:00.000-05:002012-10-07T19:54:40.174-05:00Keep Smilin', Keep Shinin'<div align="center">
I figured that was a good title for this post, especially since I've been a terrible blogger as of late. I'm going to try to be a bit more consistent. For reals.</div>
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At work we've been gearing up for a big event, so that has kept me pretty busy, just like my love/hate relationship with the treadmill. Right now I'm winning, though, so that's good.</div>
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And I've finally found a mirror for <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2012/02/sitting-even-prettier.html">over the couch</a>. Here it is. For now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3mktDVe8GoCcqtxuBs0yJUYs5Qc_GQnBkmxKbMwL-GV4CuJe2ok1SUhACnblIHgMdyAFnLxTCoxhCDPyDCOgCjj4Y8DWNc86MzBVJakarpSxgjVfFPhGbUt_QYIbQwmUu7DDxIW-UgFCy/s1600/antique.mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3mktDVe8GoCcqtxuBs0yJUYs5Qc_GQnBkmxKbMwL-GV4CuJe2ok1SUhACnblIHgMdyAFnLxTCoxhCDPyDCOgCjj4Y8DWNc86MzBVJakarpSxgjVfFPhGbUt_QYIbQwmUu7DDxIW-UgFCy/s320/antique.mirror.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Over the weekend I went down to Franklin with my pal Anna Beth, and we stumbled upon this gem at the <a href="http://downtownfranklintn.com/faces-of-franklin/winchester-antique-mall-kim-tuzzio/">Winchester Antique Mall</a>. I picked it up for a song. A friggin' song, I tell yaz. And I have big things in store for it. That will be revealed in a coming-soon post.</div>
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You can also catch a glimpse of my new cobalt blue pants, which I scored from J.C. Penney's, of all places. Their new <a href="http://www.jcpenney.com/dotcom/men/brands/jcp/cat.jump?id=cat1001520004&deptId=dept20000014&cmJCP_T=G1&cmJCP_C=D4">jcp line</a> is pretty great and affordable. Well, that's about all for now. I'm going to try to be a better, specs-ier blogger. I hope you're well. Thanks for reading, as always!</div>
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Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-85908003357169487372012-08-05T19:18:00.002-05:002012-08-05T19:18:16.881-05:00Somebody That You Used to Know...<div align="center">
Remember me?</div>
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July doesn't. It was crazy. Much like certain farmers, I'm currently experiencing my professional busy season. Over the weekend, I did manage to pick up a new CD. It's Making Mirrors by Gotye. </div>
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Yeah, yeah. I'm late to this party. What else is new? Not this album; it was released almost a year ago. I saw him on SNL a few months ago and thought that his songs were catchy, but yesterday I was shopping with my niece, and we heard his song Somebody That I Used to Know. It stuck in my head. Bad. </div>
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Now I own it. So far I've listened to most of the songs, but I keep going back to the two I had heard before. (The other song is Eyes Wide Open.) His music is hard to pin down--part pop, part synth-experiment, and part Stevie Wonder at times. That may sound like an odd combination, but it works.</div>
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Usually I am not up on the latest in music, partly because I get stuck on CDs. Yes, CDs. It still seems like such a treat that I can listen to them in my car, even though I've had this ability for about 12 years now. *shrug* I have thought about doing a little blog series on some of my top favorite albums.</div>
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How have you been? What are you listening to these days?</div>Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-51757878353935506482012-06-28T19:01:00.001-05:002012-06-28T19:01:10.820-05:00What'll I Do?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Heavens to Betsy. Will ya look at that? I don't remember temperatures this high--especially so early in our 8-month summer. :) </div>
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Well, y'all know that I'm not an outdoor boy, but it's still <em>warm</em>. So here's what's new in my mostly-air-conditioned world lately.</div>
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Ummm. Breaking Bad. In preparation for the upcoming season, AMC has being running old episodes late at night, starting with the pilot. About two weeks ago I set my DVR, and the rest is history. I had never seen the show before, although a teacher friend (shoutout to Lana!) highly recommended it. The show's about cooking meth, so 'highly' is a bit of a pun. Now I'm all caught up on it, and it's excellent. Definitely TV-14 to MA, so no kids!</div>
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And I recently visited local restaurants <a href="https://www.slocolocal.com/">Sloco</a> and <a href="http://www.delish.com/food-fun/pharmacy-beer-gardens-biergartens#slide-7">The Pharmacy</a>. Yum. If you're in town, you should definitely try them out. Sloco features local and sustainable sandwiches at affordable prices. The Pharmacy is an old-school soda shop/beer garden. A group of friends from work met there one Sunday afternoon for lunch and a board game. What could be better?</div>
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On that note, I'm also back to working on my fitness. It's good for baby.</div>
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And I'm continuing to volunteer at Gilda's Club. This July 19th I'm teaching my third <a href="http://www.gildasclubnashville.org/calendar">crafty class</a> there. It's really rewarding and fun. If you're in town, you should definitely join us! </div>
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How is your summer going? What's on the agenda?</div>Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-32507481441413196992012-06-12T19:12:00.001-05:002012-06-12T19:12:34.940-05:00DC Treats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Red velvet cupcake from <a href="http://bakedandwired.com/">Baked & Wired</a>. More than one person told me to avoid that bakery from the TLC show and go a few streets over for these. Wise advice!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpx9zvbO4eGLFB45cV5qypgLg8cNWUoT7ROHQQ5rVMBKQFbo23vOkYceyVKJ9BMHIw9lPf5dL5q5vyi1_jgOR9wlQ_joreztjfmBCui1GDbHTgTRhzBcS3n643rTFb4rUZBqICbPt0KTra/s1600/cakelove.cupcake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpx9zvbO4eGLFB45cV5qypgLg8cNWUoT7ROHQQ5rVMBKQFbo23vOkYceyVKJ9BMHIw9lPf5dL5q5vyi1_jgOR9wlQ_joreztjfmBCui1GDbHTgTRhzBcS3n643rTFb4rUZBqICbPt0KTra/s320/cakelove.cupcake.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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A few days later I had a chocolate cupcake with vanilla buttercream from <a href="http://www.cakelove.com/">CakeLove</a>. This one was from Tysons Corner, but they have locations all over the area.</div>
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I also enjoyed a cookie, some brownies, and candy from various institutions, but the other standout was an insane <strike>piece</strike> hunk of chocolate blackout cake from <a href="http://www.serendipity3dc.com/">Serendipidty 3</a>. It took four days to eat.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaja8FhtLIIEWwcCCk0KWpeH9hlHz5ilRmgR3nMIHiioFwMLf5CeD4TPfWRtd5hbdFpH7hdUs5CZyLHCkLPGVzFVu5h4B5ji8FGPU9PGCU1KmYVwLbgdK-zoWYWb_9DfkPKYqzsKsZezKC/s1600/blackout.cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" fba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaja8FhtLIIEWwcCCk0KWpeH9hlHz5ilRmgR3nMIHiioFwMLf5CeD4TPfWRtd5hbdFpH7hdUs5CZyLHCkLPGVzFVu5h4B5ji8FGPU9PGCU1KmYVwLbgdK-zoWYWb_9DfkPKYqzsKsZezKC/s1600/blackout.cake.jpg" /></a></div>
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I'm not kidding.</div>Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136764207171665679.post-31821767716980316202012-05-29T19:49:00.001-05:002012-05-29T19:49:07.413-05:00Mr. Specs Went To Washington<div align="center">
Let me just say that I had an excellent trip to DC, thanks in large part to my high school friend Scott (who lives there now), his girlfriend Wendy, and blog friends Thomas from <a href="http://mywhiteshirt.blogspot.com/">My White Shirt</a>, Jenn from <a href="http://deptoftheinteriordc.blogspot.com/">Dear Heart</a>, and Suann from <a href="http://www.simplesong.typepad.com/">Simple Song</a>. </div>
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I did not do tons of tourist-y stuff, but that was by design. Mostly it was about the sweet treats and shopping. Oh, and a Joel Osteen spotting at Barney's. Here are the results of my main tourist thing, which was a trip through the excellent Hirshhorn Museum.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-fyUIAfEu8xRhJw5-c9Fq52b_cD4Wlz2rrMgaNdjLn8GPLCPS44IVMLyE4ceQImwEvoDQKipQZk4LSso0jYEdXSi3Hab27zWpDsP_4ywzOQtLRwOSYIshbjD-ewiWwqMQglaliHvlXVSi/s1600/stamps.sculpture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-fyUIAfEu8xRhJw5-c9Fq52b_cD4Wlz2rrMgaNdjLn8GPLCPS44IVMLyE4ceQImwEvoDQKipQZk4LSso0jYEdXSi3Hab27zWpDsP_4ywzOQtLRwOSYIshbjD-ewiWwqMQglaliHvlXVSi/s320/stamps.sculpture.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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You know I loves me some <a href="http://specs-appeal.blogspot.com/2010/07/my-ebay-finds.html">stamps</a>. This sculpture by Tony Cragg is called <em>Subcommittee</em>. Clever, no?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwt4-GCU0l1du_uX3KxLmAxzNdyNI0wKnJut9t7pvkYC-192nRC_8zOCrAllsYDheJTNXfFhVEPvdF3k_4eQTXxsyqJCEFSt0M7b5mKDQHHuxXSM-5LnxRDE5HN84u1UIoLgOiXW84ICAx/s1600/blue.lights.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwt4-GCU0l1du_uX3KxLmAxzNdyNI0wKnJut9t7pvkYC-192nRC_8zOCrAllsYDheJTNXfFhVEPvdF3k_4eQTXxsyqJCEFSt0M7b5mKDQHHuxXSM-5LnxRDE5HN84u1UIoLgOiXW84ICAx/s320/blue.lights.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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My jury is still out on whether some of this is actually art, but it's subjective. I get that. This is a row of blue fluorescent lights. <em>Untitled</em> (<em>to Helga and Carlo, with respect and affection)</em> by Dan Flavin.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOBGVbaPD_7qaPwRB-oZkWV8EeuAx6QRfCWsIzSUpv3pNmCihWF-oZ0L7dMvY7ojM_oAKwFRzNiV1O9ghPTZFOK7d2ZNIGn3ew8RSej1qE5Sl9F1vmnEbIUGZ4KZ7ZyF2aW3SGVeXXVPid/s1600/the.tragic.comedians.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOBGVbaPD_7qaPwRB-oZkWV8EeuAx6QRfCWsIzSUpv3pNmCihWF-oZ0L7dMvY7ojM_oAKwFRzNiV1O9ghPTZFOK7d2ZNIGn3ew8RSej1qE5Sl9F1vmnEbIUGZ4KZ7ZyF2aW3SGVeXXVPid/s320/the.tragic.comedians.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<em>The Tragic Comedians</em> by Walt Kuhn.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85JF8B6M-H3QmYLG9IEIH9hFTmBMs2sy8ZydiUSrE8ubQkYmByGCX8zglHDBKDswL81TKxerTQzwpztkPy__sYR-sWhgPhQAz7myrQ4eN-i6JNfG3L-qWOUwQN98Km-7nu2PY3lnwrOcG/s1600/mondrian.canvas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85JF8B6M-H3QmYLG9IEIH9hFTmBMs2sy8ZydiUSrE8ubQkYmByGCX8zglHDBKDswL81TKxerTQzwpztkPy__sYR-sWhgPhQAz7myrQ4eN-i6JNfG3L-qWOUwQN98Km-7nu2PY3lnwrOcG/s320/mondrian.canvas.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<em>Composition with Blue and Yellow</em>. Piet Mondrian was not one to mince words.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE7TAyJxQg4eO6WKi3tODj7Zrd8m64tFSMVqE2vbV-Hvrr1j7QwEDANG-dXvNiSJ3WTm3hX6YL7IbI9ICQMUwGoKk1ppXpjr61LHWjqeIMJfIULBdUYPyDuGdqzBOFlscrRUYOLkCuynUx/s1600/giacometti.sculpture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE7TAyJxQg4eO6WKi3tODj7Zrd8m64tFSMVqE2vbV-Hvrr1j7QwEDANG-dXvNiSJ3WTm3hX6YL7IbI9ICQMUwGoKk1ppXpjr61LHWjqeIMJfIULBdUYPyDuGdqzBOFlscrRUYOLkCuynUx/s320/giacometti.sculpture.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Neither was Alberto Giacometti. <em>Tall Figure</em>. Go figure.</div>
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I'll do another DC post in the next few days, so stay tuned. Since that trip each weekend has been filled with family events, and the weekdays seem to be flying by. I've been hitting up the treadmill and clearing out the DVR, so the plan is to get back into blogging more consistently very soon. </div>
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Thanks for checking in!</div>Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13171473819740751243noreply@blogger.com3