My new collection of holiday cards is online at Cardstore.com. A great way to personalize your holiday greeting.
Cardstore.com is currently offering 15% off of any order minus postage or shipping.
Enter FRIEND15 (at checkout)
11.20.2009
INK+WIT Holiday Cards at Cardstore.com
My new collection of holiday cards is online at Cardstore.com. A great way to personalize your holiday greeting.
Cardstore.com is currently offering 15% off of any order minus postage or shipping.
Enter FRIEND15 (at checkout)
Lisa Cohen Photography
I love the subtle light and mood in Lisa's work. Lisa is based in Australia and has worked worldwide with photographers at British House & Garden and Vogue. Her images are solid in composition and fluid in light.
The Complex of All of These / Creating a Book
I admit, my eyes welled up while watching this video. It is such a true documentation of making a book. I have made small books before but never so many and of this size. It is a beautiful process. Making paper can also be very meditative.
This video was sent to me by my dear friend, Tim Willard, a talented writer at Trap Door Sun.
3000 photographs (-ish), 35 books, 2 months at the Women's Studio Workshop in Rosendale, NY. Ratatat made the music. www.pressejanvier.com
11.19.2009
Moomah
I have never been so inspired by a space in my life. I mean that. Moomah is unbelievable. If I lived in New York City I would be there everyday. The fact that they have classes, a cafe, and a place to relax hits it out of the ballpark for me. Plus, I Love children's books and illustration and this place feels like a pop up story book.
Moomah also has a link on their site called create where you can make a very cool collage based on elements they supply. Mine s above.
Located at 161 Hudson Street New York NY 10013 212 226 0345
Alvhem Mäkleri & Interiör
Sweden is on my list of places to travel. Don't you just wish you had an apartment in every city you love? Check out these fabulous simple spaces from Alvhem Mäkleri & Interiör located in Göteborg, Sweden.
11.18.2009
The Ongoing Power of Being Still
So many of you enjoyed the post about my cat, Uma, and my self introspective journey during her absence last year that I decided to share my real life stories once a week on this blog. I am really enjoying connecting with all of you.
There are many sayings relevant to life when it gets tough. When the going gets tough the tough get going, when handed lemons make lemonade, life is not fair, life goes on, it will all work out, life's a bitch... we have heard them all.
Sometimes, this happens to us. We get hit with too much. But, do we? Or, do we choose to ingest this "too much" thing? When we take on others pain and suffering, get wrapped up in our schedules, meetings, and even goals we fry ourselves. And our goals can often be confused as ideals. It is important to decide what is truly a goal, an idea, or a fantasy.
I openly say I have had a lot of strong waves in my life recently.
Examples:
1. horrible family crisis - the tsunami
2. evolution of business ideas (not a bad thing but a wave to ride - the lovely rippled waters with spontaneous surprise)
3. a two month ongoing discomfort from new food allergies - the whirlpool, sadly in my intestines... colonics are good
Thing is, I have been content all the way through until three days ago when you have one of those moments where all the thoughts come to a head and sprout. Watch out. The thoughts have sat and marinated and at that point have spread throughout the entire body like a virus. You know those days? Right? When you are spinning in all your thoughts. The mind is strong. It can carry us to places we never thought we could go, convince us things are not as they are truly are, pull us away from the true self, the kind nature in us, and promote ignorance of the self. If you sit and think too much you will become entangled in your thoughts. And, if your thoughts are rampant, impure, harmful, and blurred in doubt you will likely end up having a meltdown or chasing your own ass. I do not mean a huge ongoing meltdown. It could be one bad day where you have ingested too much of your own crap and others. Perhaps ate dead foods, watched too much TV, got little exercise, and paid zero attention to being still and quiet. My few days of the crap hitting the fan were simply brought on by being so busy I sat still less and received very saddening news three days in a row. What I know about myself and I feel is true with most is when you are faced with family crisis you can get socked. Why? We are incredibly attached to our loved ones. Only the most enlightened being can truly be still through family crisis and even once I heard a monk needs to process mourning. We are human. But, it is important to remember that we can move on with peace and understanding through challenge. The key is to be consistent with what brings you peace. If it is your bike ride, ride your bike everyday. If it is gardening, garden. When you stop, you break up your ongoing stream of calm.
During the recent past day of hitting my threshold I caught my mind and said, shut up! Slow down. However, it took quite a bit of stillness to sort out the noise. It happens. The noise happens. We have to catch it though as it can build and roll into a ball of flames. Knock us down, pollute us, and convince us we are too tired, too this too that. Then, the reactions come followed by the inaction of working out the reason the reaction started, the mind was a mess. It is like the dust that builds up and up on the things stored in a basement. When you dive in to fully clean out the basement it takes much time to clean it up. And, you get caught up in old photos, objects you forgot you had, and then start coughing because you are sitting in an environment that is full of muck. You have to do a lot of work to clean up. However, it must be done. Or, the muck will keep thickening and so will the illusions and fluctuations of the mind.
My meditation practice has been interesting recently. I often find myself in meditation when I am not trying to be or sitting down quiet without a plan. When I try really hard to set a time, I fail at it. My yoga practice has always been very organic. The physical side as well as the mental and spiritual side. I am not sure if it is because I was surrounded by ocean water as a child but something in me is obvious... I relate to the ocean and its minimal vastness of calm, its high crashing tides, and its low shallow waters with grainy sand that never ends. Its ability to build a huge wave to roll and its ability to be still and calm. Growing up, the ocean was my refuge. When I moved from Southern CT to upstate NY, completely lake based, I felt lost. I remember my first day as a new student moving into my dorm at Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY. I felt isolated, trapped, and closed in with no ocean liner. I looked for four years as a student to find that place again as a meditation spot but never found it. Now, I know I was simply attached to a place. It took a long time for me to adjust into stillness here. Adapting was always my strong point but I hit a rift with geography when I moved away from my safe spots.
I guess my point in all this verbiage is this... find how you are connected to stillness in times of noise. When the mind will not shut off. When it keeps talking you keep talking. What the hell are we all talking about anyway? Gossip will bring you so far down your energy will be depleted, rambling will just drive the listener nuts, snide comments will breed harm to others and ultimately you. So, during times of hardship, despair, commotion, and friction, aim to be still. The whole think before you speak thing never works if you cannot sit still before you think. Because what you are thinking will eventually come out in some form. It may be road rage, fatigue, quarrel, or a dumping of your crap on someone else. Own your crap. Own your thoughts. Be aware of your bad day and how it started. And, most importantly, remember, we all have them. But, can you move through life's obstacles with fierce grace? Yes. Can you be still anywhere? Yes. You do not need a beach.
My troublesome day passed and I am thankful I had it. It put things back in perspective. It was cause for another tune-up and update in my goals, intentions, and yogic practice.
Sri Yogi Dharma Mittra, who you will always hear me reference, says, "everything is perfect and nothing is permanent." On that note, I wish you much peace.
There are many sayings relevant to life when it gets tough. When the going gets tough the tough get going, when handed lemons make lemonade, life is not fair, life goes on, it will all work out, life's a bitch... we have heard them all.
Sometimes, this happens to us. We get hit with too much. But, do we? Or, do we choose to ingest this "too much" thing? When we take on others pain and suffering, get wrapped up in our schedules, meetings, and even goals we fry ourselves. And our goals can often be confused as ideals. It is important to decide what is truly a goal, an idea, or a fantasy.
I openly say I have had a lot of strong waves in my life recently.
Examples:
1. horrible family crisis - the tsunami
2. evolution of business ideas (not a bad thing but a wave to ride - the lovely rippled waters with spontaneous surprise)
3. a two month ongoing discomfort from new food allergies - the whirlpool, sadly in my intestines... colonics are good
Thing is, I have been content all the way through until three days ago when you have one of those moments where all the thoughts come to a head and sprout. Watch out. The thoughts have sat and marinated and at that point have spread throughout the entire body like a virus. You know those days? Right? When you are spinning in all your thoughts. The mind is strong. It can carry us to places we never thought we could go, convince us things are not as they are truly are, pull us away from the true self, the kind nature in us, and promote ignorance of the self. If you sit and think too much you will become entangled in your thoughts. And, if your thoughts are rampant, impure, harmful, and blurred in doubt you will likely end up having a meltdown or chasing your own ass. I do not mean a huge ongoing meltdown. It could be one bad day where you have ingested too much of your own crap and others. Perhaps ate dead foods, watched too much TV, got little exercise, and paid zero attention to being still and quiet. My few days of the crap hitting the fan were simply brought on by being so busy I sat still less and received very saddening news three days in a row. What I know about myself and I feel is true with most is when you are faced with family crisis you can get socked. Why? We are incredibly attached to our loved ones. Only the most enlightened being can truly be still through family crisis and even once I heard a monk needs to process mourning. We are human. But, it is important to remember that we can move on with peace and understanding through challenge. The key is to be consistent with what brings you peace. If it is your bike ride, ride your bike everyday. If it is gardening, garden. When you stop, you break up your ongoing stream of calm.
During the recent past day of hitting my threshold I caught my mind and said, shut up! Slow down. However, it took quite a bit of stillness to sort out the noise. It happens. The noise happens. We have to catch it though as it can build and roll into a ball of flames. Knock us down, pollute us, and convince us we are too tired, too this too that. Then, the reactions come followed by the inaction of working out the reason the reaction started, the mind was a mess. It is like the dust that builds up and up on the things stored in a basement. When you dive in to fully clean out the basement it takes much time to clean it up. And, you get caught up in old photos, objects you forgot you had, and then start coughing because you are sitting in an environment that is full of muck. You have to do a lot of work to clean up. However, it must be done. Or, the muck will keep thickening and so will the illusions and fluctuations of the mind.
My meditation practice has been interesting recently. I often find myself in meditation when I am not trying to be or sitting down quiet without a plan. When I try really hard to set a time, I fail at it. My yoga practice has always been very organic. The physical side as well as the mental and spiritual side. I am not sure if it is because I was surrounded by ocean water as a child but something in me is obvious... I relate to the ocean and its minimal vastness of calm, its high crashing tides, and its low shallow waters with grainy sand that never ends. Its ability to build a huge wave to roll and its ability to be still and calm. Growing up, the ocean was my refuge. When I moved from Southern CT to upstate NY, completely lake based, I felt lost. I remember my first day as a new student moving into my dorm at Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY. I felt isolated, trapped, and closed in with no ocean liner. I looked for four years as a student to find that place again as a meditation spot but never found it. Now, I know I was simply attached to a place. It took a long time for me to adjust into stillness here. Adapting was always my strong point but I hit a rift with geography when I moved away from my safe spots.
I guess my point in all this verbiage is this... find how you are connected to stillness in times of noise. When the mind will not shut off. When it keeps talking you keep talking. What the hell are we all talking about anyway? Gossip will bring you so far down your energy will be depleted, rambling will just drive the listener nuts, snide comments will breed harm to others and ultimately you. So, during times of hardship, despair, commotion, and friction, aim to be still. The whole think before you speak thing never works if you cannot sit still before you think. Because what you are thinking will eventually come out in some form. It may be road rage, fatigue, quarrel, or a dumping of your crap on someone else. Own your crap. Own your thoughts. Be aware of your bad day and how it started. And, most importantly, remember, we all have them. But, can you move through life's obstacles with fierce grace? Yes. Can you be still anywhere? Yes. You do not need a beach.
My troublesome day passed and I am thankful I had it. It put things back in perspective. It was cause for another tune-up and update in my goals, intentions, and yogic practice.
Sri Yogi Dharma Mittra, who you will always hear me reference, says, "everything is perfect and nothing is permanent." On that note, I wish you much peace.
11.17.2009
Manna Power
Originally I found a recipe for the "blue grape," a Pure Food & Wine juice. I have since altered it to my taste buds adding in fresh oranges and a hint of lime to juice. This drink is a great cleanser and should be drank alone, not with food. It never pays to combine fruit with non fruit foods anyway. You may become bloated and feel full of heavy air. No fun.
I have named my drink Manna Power because I feel energized and awake after I drink it.
TO MAKE
VitaMix or a great high speed blender
2 grapefruits (skin removed)
1 orange (skin removed)
1/2 fresh lime juice squeezed in by hand after all juice is extracted from juicer
1/2 tspn of crystal blue manna powder
"Blue manna powder is 100% pure AFA (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae), one of nature's most perfect foods. Blue Manna is an extract of Blue-Green Algae. It contains high concentrations of phycocyanin, the blue pigment present in all blue-green algae. Phycocyanin has been recently shown to be a strong and specific inhibitor of the enzyme cycloozygenase-2 (COX-2), blocking the production of inflammatory eicosanoids in the body. Blue Manna is the concentrated Blue pigment that is extracted from the freshly harvested Blue-Green AFA. This is a highly potent brain food as well as a COX 2 inhibitor (a powerful anti-inflammatory). Many are extremely enthusiastic about the benefits of Blue Manna. Human clinical trials have shown anti-inflammatory and analgesic efficacy that compare with traditional treatments, without the secondary effects normally associated. PEA is also found in Cacao Beans, this partly explains the bliss effects of cacao and Blue Manna. Crystal Manna is the whole Blue-Green Algae, fresh-dried." (info via Raw Guru)
photo: INK+WIT
new issue of Milk Magazine
I love Milk Magazine. So much current fashion and decor for children. Milk is a French magazine. No wonder I love it.
LIttle Fashion Gallery
Found through Milk Magazine, LFG sports impeccable baby and children's frocks, furniture, books, and supplies. Located in France and England.
11.16.2009
Yogi holiday gifts roundup 1
Whether you are a new to yoga or have been on the path for quite some time, the above items will surely please.
DHARMA MITTRA - MAHA SADHANA DVDs
Level I contains material suitable for able-bodied beginners, two full asana sequences adjustable from 45 to 75 minutes, pranayama practice with instruction, fully guided meditation with instruction, spiritual discourses, asana workshop with Dharma's tips and tricks, and "Calling from Afar," an 18-minute special film of Dharma's amazing life featuring music by Krishna Das.
Level II for stronger and more experienced students - both $29.99
DHARMA YOGA CENTER - ASANAS 608 YOGA POSES
ASANAS 608 Yoga Poses by Dharma Mittra. Paperback 672 pages For the first time in book form, gathering the photographs from a classic yoga poster, Asanas celebrates the extraordinary human achievement by Dharma Mittra. Asanas collects 608 of Dharma Mittra's black-and-white photographs, each accompanied by the Sanskrit name and English translation of the pose. This chunky, backpack- or briefcase-ready format offers a new intro to yoga written by Dharma Mittra and a glossary of yoga terms. Because it builds on basic postures, Asanas will appeal to practitioners of any of the 100 yoga styles
$21.95
NETI POT
Soothes dry nasal passages
Gently wash away dust, pollen, and irritants.
Remove excess mucus
$13.95
VITA-MIX 5200
This is perfect for preparing raw food recipes, shakes, deserts, soups, pretty much anything. it would probably grind wood. Do not be afraid of the price. It is great investment. I use it more than any appliance I own.
$549.00
SANDLEWOOD MALAS
Most yoga shalas will have malas. Malas have a way of finding you so no need to look hard.
YOGITOES
A tool created to prevent slipping while practicing yoga. It's super absorbent, and puts a hygienic layer between you and the yoga mat or any
our nubs are made with 100% silicone, healthy for mother earth.
mat size: 24" x 68" - $64 / hand size: 17" x 26" - $34
our nubs are made with 100% silicone, healthy for mother earth.
mat size: 24" x 68" - $64 / hand size: 17" x 26" - $34
OWI // Office for Word and Image // Tuscan Monastery
Office for Word and Image, OWI specializes in full reportages, including text and images regarding architecture and interiors.
Shown in the above photos is my dream travel space. I looked through a ton of images on OWI and stopped dead at this series of a converted Monastery. Go figure. Big surprise, knowing me, if you have been learning more about me via this blog. Hmmm, maybe I will go hunt for a place to rent in Tuscany. It has always been a dream of mine. Time to make it a reality.
The character of the Monastery was certainly respected and a light touch of decor was added to bring in the owner's personality. I love an ancient and rustic dwelling space with a hit of modern.
Photographer // Verne
2009 Cool. vs. Cruel Awards / Compassionate Fashion
Very cool indeed!!!
I really wanted to post a more informative video on how cruel it really is that fur is used for a bunch of fashion statements that will die out, get tossed into some clothing swap or consignment shop, but I will spare you. You can seek out the info on your own, when you are ready. It is tough to watch I will forewarn you. But, necessary to understand how completely inhuman people can be towards animals. And, remember, the fur gets used for pillow covers, blankets, rugs, and tons of other goods. Do your homework.
The good news is the The Humane Society of the United States is doing so much to stop the horror. I know we can all do our parts as well. Stop buying fur, leather, and any goods made with animal products. Little by little we can all make a huge global difference.
I seriously just hugged my cat for like 15 minutes straight just now. I would rather hug her than a coat.
Much love.
Read more at Wayne Pacelle's blog, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States.
11.15.2009
Jose Javier
Jose Javier's Paris photos bring me back instantly. Light and airy with a whimsical perspective of scale. The scale reminds me of my all time favorite illustrator, Lisbeth Zwerger.
11.14.2009
Young Living Thieves
Young Living has a high quality essential oil product list. Just in time for the cold season and any season really is Thieves Essential Oil. Use the oil for dietary needs, aromatic infusions, or topical uses.
"Thieves® was created based on research about four thieves in France who covered themselves with cloves, rosemary, and other aromatics while robbing plague victims. This proprietary essential oil blend was university tested for its cleansing abilities. It is highly effective in supporting the immune system and good health."
Thieves Essential Oil
Thieves® Fresh Essence Plus Mouthwash
Thieves® Spray - use on door handles, toilet seats, and any surface that needs cleansing to protect from dust, mold, and undesirable microorganisms
Thieves® Soft Lozenges - quick breath freshener - soothing relief for your mouth - contains Thieves® essential oil blend and the essential oils of orange and peppermintFIRINN
Jewelery, Object + Custom Design by Sydney-based designer and artist, Chloe Elizabeth
"The word Firinn is of Scottish Gaelic origins, meaning “The Ultimate Truth” which is something that Chloe Elizabeth resonates strongly with and aspires to achieve through her daily life, her art and her design."
FRED BARE
FRED BARE, located in Australia and New Zealand. They have a creative vivid line of clothing and eye-ware for children.
Wonderful photography by Wendell Levi Teodoro
11.13.2009
White Forest Pottery
Nancy Bauch’s work is meditative, simple, and lovely. Her art reflects the philosophy of “wabi sabi” an aesthetic that honors the beauty of imperfection.
11.12.2009
Nic Webb
UK creative artisan, Nic Webb, hand carves each of these beautiful pieces out of fresh living green wood. He collects wood as he walks around the British Isles.
“When I begin carving I look for the differing qualities in each piece, allowing the grain and character to influence the design. Each spoon evolves to have its own personality and when finished becomes a showcase for the limitless beauty of wood.”
11.11.2009
Natalie Portman in V Magazine
Miss Portman is an amazing person for many reasons. One in particular, she is an avid animal rights activist. She was a long time vegetarian now turned vegan. I think we can all agree the list of good things about her goes on and on. Her beauty stops you dead in your tracks and then there is the intelligence and charm. The acting ability and fine art of cinema. The line of vegan shoes and keen fashion sense. Natalie's pics in V Magazine are all over stunning.
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