tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74970742586418543782024-03-13T11:49:31.519-04:00winterthirteenFrom the mind of a twenty-something artist, teacher, lover of people, art & culture, devoted wife, and random-thought provider.
Details my life as an artist, homeowner, and foodie.Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-50623258944958915252013-01-18T14:10:00.001-05:002013-01-18T14:10:40.933-05:00Pardon the DustI'm in the process of designing, organizing, editing, and revamping the site.<br />
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As always, you can find me on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/winterthirteen" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.<br />
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<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-14268105416493993902012-04-07T21:09:00.000-04:002012-04-07T21:09:00.008-04:00Art Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, these images might not be new to you. But here is a look at some of the very nerdy pieces I've been working on.</div>
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{Nyan Cat, David, River Tam & Sexy Zombie}</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-26129098287034687222012-03-22T05:00:00.000-04:002012-03-26T10:25:58.268-04:00Saturated Canary & Mad Men Inspired Digi PostI am so excited to announce that Krista of <a href="http://saturatedcanary.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Saturated Canary</a> has chosen one of my ideas for her newly designed digis!<br />
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I suppose it is no surprise that I was quick to suggest Mad Men. I couldn't be more obsessed with that show and the characters in it. Roger Sterling & Joan Holloway are definitely my favorites, so I was thrilled to see that this lovely stamp had very *ahem* Joan-like qualities.</div>
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I really wanted to spend a lot more time designing a sort of Mad Men inspired SMASH* page {if you are not familiar with SMASH*ing I recommend checking out <a href="http://www.kelliewinnell.com.au/" target="_blank">Kellie Winnell's blog</a> and Krista's post <a href="http://saturatedcanary.blogspot.com/2012/03/smash-hop.html" target="_blank">here</a>}.</div>
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Anyways, yesterday while coaching I got hit... and I mean <i>HIT</i>... square in the nose with a full-on forehand tennis ball. Needless to say, the rest of my day was spent icing my swollen nose and calming the pain with lots of ibuprofen. So I'll just have to post what I had up until that point.</div>
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And really, this illustration couldn't come at a better time! This Sunday is the season premier of Mad Men and I'm already planning a big night of it. If I would have known sooner, I may have just made some premier party invites with the image!</div>
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So, without further ado, here is the Mad Men digi from <a href="http://saturatedcanary.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Saturated Canary</a> with a few of my own embellishments {because we all know it's not Mad Men without a good martini!}</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0WdRY-NGWos/T2qHvfwGcFI/AAAAAAAAAfI/EogFbNNYHHY/s1600/94d779f673c211e18bb812313804a181_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0WdRY-NGWos/T2qHvfwGcFI/AAAAAAAAAfI/EogFbNNYHHY/s320/94d779f673c211e18bb812313804a181_7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And here is the best part of the whole post! Krista was nice enough to allow me to open up a contest for <i>you!</i> This Mad Men inspired digi could be yours!</div>
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Here is what you'll need to do to enter:</div>
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<b>1) Comment on this post sometime between now and Sunday </b></div>
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{I will close it after the 2-hour Mad Men premier @ 11pm EST}</div>
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<b>2) You must be a follower </b></div>
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{either through Blogger or Facebook}</div>
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Good luck! </div>
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And thank you to Krista for this opportunity!<br />
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{Giveway Update 03/26/2012}<br />
Winner of the Blanche Giveaway: <a href="http://simmcards.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alina</a></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-16690175211766332182012-03-20T14:16:00.001-04:002012-03-20T14:18:08.268-04:00Thank You For Your Patience!<div style="text-align: center;">
I promise I am still alive! I really am! </div>
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I just have been insanely busy with work, coaching, working out & keeping my life somewhat organized. The good news is, in the last 75 days I have lost 20 pounds!<br />
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20 pounds! That's huge for me as I am not back to the weight that I was my freshman year in college. I'm hoping that I will have some time in the coming week to post about my nutrition and lifestyle changes I have made to see these results.<br />
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Oh! And I also got bangs!<br />
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Anyways, expect a Things I Love Thursday this week, then hopefully a few posts in the upcoming weeks!<br />
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Thanks for your patience!<br />
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<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-76475811315989477032012-02-20T15:13:00.000-05:002012-02-20T15:17:09.273-05:00Color Board - Grey & Citron<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">{Top Row - <a href="http://www.stubbypencilstudio.com/product/GAPL_HIGHLIGHTER1/Eco-Highlighter-Yellow/" target="_blank">Eco Highlighters</a>, <a href="http://needsupply.com/womens/accessories/shark-tooth-ring.html" target="_blank">Shark Tooth Ring</a>, <a href="http://gmillustration.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Grady McFerrin Illustration</a>, <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/trend-watch-in-the-pink-divers-147449" target="_blank">Home of Gemma Ahern</a>; <br />Middle - <a href="http://theselvedgeyard.wordpress.com/2012/01/21/georgia-okeeffe-maria-chabot-women-who-rode-way/" target="_blank">Georgia O'Keefe & Maurice Grosser</a> ; Bottom Row- <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74520350/chalkboard-skull-in-lemon-yellow?ref=tre-1844623100-12" target="_blank">Chalkboard Skull</a>, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sparktography/274344561/" target="_blank">Yellow on Grey by sparktography</a>}</span></div>
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Just like the last color board, this board also has inspiration from the recent Ohio weather. Lately it's been cool and crisp, but bright with sunshine. It makes me very aware that spring is just around the corner.</div>
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I'm really loving the bursts of bright, cool color on a cool, dark grey. Grey and citron {as well as charcoals, blacks, and various shades of yellow} have been popping up in my wardrobe, too. I've bought some yellow accessories and a wool jacket that I cannot get enough of!<br />
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I included a lovely photo of Georgia O'Keefe on a Harley Davidson {as photographed by Maria Cabot}. Lately I've really been into reading and studying Art History again, especially about the women who shaped the art world as it is today {it also helps with they have rather intriguing personal lives with a lot of speculation}. </div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-10750024214699696852012-02-13T14:06:00.005-05:002012-02-13T14:08:42.660-05:00Film Review /// Miss Representation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week I borrowed the documentary <a href="http://www.missrepresentation.org/" target="_blank">Miss Representation</a> from KSU Stark.<br />
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I highly recommend it to all of my female readers {...and my male readers who know any females.} It is enlightening to see just how little of a presence women have in the media. Especially smart, strong women who do no use their bodies as a form of empowerment.<br />
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It made me feel a little bit guilty for supporting & enjoying some of my <i>guilty pleasure</i> movies & television. Jersey Shore, Keeping Up With The Kardashian's, Real Housewives, Gossip Girl, romantic comedies, shoot 'em up movies & action flicks; none of these have been particularly kind to women.<br />
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The documentary definitely made me more conscious and hopefully a little more proactive when it comes to providing young women {and even adult women} with some seriously impressive role models.<br />
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Are you aware that eighty-six percent of the purchasing power in the United States is in the hands of women? Think about it!<br />
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{And in similar news, but unrelated to the film... last nights' Grammy's really put me off because of the amount of Chris Brown recognition. I'm a little shocked and disgusted at how people seem to have forgotten, <a href="http://t.co/TeG2WxDv" target="_blank">or just accept and encourage</a>, that he had done a really horrible thing.}<br />
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To read more about the film, hear from Jennifer Siebel Newsom, or learn about how you can help....<br />
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If you're interested in seeing more or even what you can do to make a change....</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">◦ </span>Visit the <a href="http://www.missrepresentation.org/" target="_blank">Miss Representation</a> webpage</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">◦ </span>Support advocacy groups like <a href="http://wimnonline.org/" target="_blank">Women In Media and News</a> {WIMN}</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">◦ </span>Help out organizations like <a href="http://www.girlsforachange.org/" target="_blank">Girls for a Change</a></div>
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I am a huge supporter of daily affirmations.<br />
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In fact, sometimes I make myself sick I worry so much that if I <i>don't</i> acknowledge something that it might go away.<br />
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I feel like this is something I can constantly improve upon, too. I know I don't share enough with my family, friends, co-workers, and students just how amazing they are and how much I appreciate them.<br />
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I think that is why I love these posts and my Things I Love Thursdays so much. It's a chance for me to share with the universe the things I value, adore, and cannot live without!<br />
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Since last Thursday I feel like I've been bombarded with bad news. Work related things have had me stressed out and it took a toll on my health. I spent part of my weekend in the hospital, having a couple tests done, making sure that I was healthy. Thankfully, I am!<br />
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And while right now my health {and the health of those around me} seems like a <i>huge </i>thing, it is often something I take for granted. I am in good health, and so are the people in my life, and for that I am grateful.Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-40371493673708978062012-02-01T14:10:00.000-05:002012-02-01T14:10:12.549-05:00The Little Things {Arrested Development}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today's Little Thing comes with the news that the entire cast and original writers have been confirmed for a <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/30/arrested-development-new-episodes-cast_n_1241409.html" target="_blank">new season of Arrested Development.</a></div>
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If you haven't watched this show, I would <i>highly</i> recommend checking it out. The humor is so perfect!</div>
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.<i>..and that's why you always leave a note.</i></div>
<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-85407047866886583122012-01-31T07:25:00.003-05:002012-01-31T07:25:50.760-05:00Travel Story /// Las VegasI have been thinking a lot about travel lately. Inconsistent, cold, wet weather here in Ohio has had me dreaming of far off places. ...And the fact that my parents decided to take a family trip {without Nick & I!} to Vegas hasn't helped in the matters.<br />
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In 2009 I took one of the most memorable vacations of a lifetime. A high school acquaintance and I decided to plan a road trip across the country. I flew out and met him in Chicago, and from there we drove to Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, Rapid City, & back to Chicago.<br />
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We stayed with hosts through <a href="http://www.couchsurfing.org/" target="_blank">CouchSurfing</a> and had some of the most amazing adventures, conversations, and meals that I will never forget.<br />
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This trip was so much fun, it has Nick and I discussing the possibilities for an East Coast or a Pacific Northwest road trip. </div>
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And, I've even started a '<a href="http://pinterest.com/ashleypucci/travel-lust/" target="_blank">Travel Lust</a>' board on Pinterest! How much money and how long would it take to get to all of those places?</div>
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Have you ever been on a road trip before? What was the best part about it?</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-2162392868767199832012-01-30T11:20:00.000-05:002012-01-30T11:20:37.795-05:00Photographs From The Weekend /// Nick's Birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm a little sad that the weekend is over. I needed those two days off {& could have used a few more!}</div>
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On Friday, I was relaxing with my best friend while Nick went out and celebrated his birthday with the boys. Laura and I ate Chinese food, watched Winnie the Pooh, & laughed over YouTube videos.</div>
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Saturday, Nick and I spent the day together eating good food, shopping, & seeing family. I gave him his somewhat nerdy {okay, <i>a lot </i>nerdy} birthday present, a <a href="http://society6.com/product/Millennium-Falcon_Print" target="_blank">Millennium Falcon</a> print from <a href="http://society6.com/" target="_blank">Society6</a> and a <a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/unisex/popculture/d3dc/" target="_blank">Serenity</a> t-shirt from <a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/" target="_blank">ThinkGeek</a>. We also picked up a googly eyed frog treat for Noelle at <a href="http://www.moochieandcompany.com/" target="_blank">Moochie & Co</a>.</div>
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I was also taking care of my parents' and my aunt's cats while they were vacationing in Las Vegas {<i>so unfair!}</i></div>
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Sunday was laid-back. Started out with a cup of coffee and the Championship match of the Australian Open<i> </i>{Go Djokovic!} Then I was able to catch up on a lot of blog reading, artwork, & household chores!</div>
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How about you? How was your weekend?Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-58015889125774236362012-01-27T17:31:00.001-05:002012-01-27T19:36:19.007-05:00Have A Lovely Weekend!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwbf0xNpN4I/TyMkAqEROVI/AAAAAAAAAcI/PsNLvHMrJLg/s1600/giveup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwbf0xNpN4I/TyMkAqEROVI/AAAAAAAAAcI/PsNLvHMrJLg/s400/giveup.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hello!</div>
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My Friday was off to a rough start when I knocked myself silly getting into my car. I was rushing and didn't clear the door, so my forehead met the frame really <i>really </i>hard. I saw stars for a little awhile and now I have a really attractive knot on my forehead.<br />
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I am hoping that the swelling & bruising goes away before tomorrow! Like I had mentioned <a href="http://winterthirteen.blogspot.com/2012/01/things-i-love-thursday-january-26-2012.html" target="_blank">yesterday</a>, this weekend is Nick's birthday and we are going out and celebrating.<br />
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Although I love to write, I often times have a difficult time eloquently expressing my feelings. Especially on the topic love. I think this is why I find myself being drawn to the lyrics of love songs. {I tell Nick that he and I have a new "song" just about every month.}<br />
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Anyways, I have always been a huge fan of Jason Mraz and this new song is so beautiful. It might have to be the new song for Nick & I!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_6KJaTEEmk/TyMkBON11jI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/unPVemtUMYM/s1600/getrough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_6KJaTEEmk/TyMkBON11jI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/unPVemtUMYM/s400/getrough.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hope you have a lovely weekend! Enjoy!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-86384069143789126662012-01-26T15:07:00.000-05:002013-01-18T14:24:04.867-05:00Things I Love Thursday - January 26, 2012<div style="text-align: center;">
It is Thursday again! I am thankful that this week is going by so quickly!<br />
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Nick and I have plans for the weekend to celebrate his birthday, so I've been anxious for Friday to get here!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6e5LLjJ8iM/TyGvIagLmDI/AAAAAAAAAbo/v1WDIzHGggQ/s1600/maggiegyllenhaalpetersarsgaard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6e5LLjJ8iM/TyGvIagLmDI/AAAAAAAAAbo/v1WDIzHGggQ/s400/maggiegyllenhaalpetersarsgaard.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Television</div>
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<b>◦</b> I love <a href="http://www.ifc.com/shows/portlandia" target="_blank">Portlandia</a>. Fred Armisen's technology spiral sketch so accurately depicts my relationship with my devices. So when I saw this <a href="http://bldgwlf.com/dkng-studios-portlandia/" target="_blank">illustration for Portlandia's</a> Season 2 release, I couldn't help but fall in love!</div>
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Art & Culture</div>
<b>◦ </b>I love photography {Nick & I were married in a photography gallery!} so I love <a href="http://www.retronaut.co/2012/01/famous-photographers-and-their-most-iconic-images/" target="_blank">these images</a> of famous photographers and their most iconic images.<br />
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<b>◦ </b>These illustrations, titled "<a href="http://bldgwlf.com/dkng-studios-27-club/" target="_blank">The 27 Club</a>", depict the musicians who died at the age of 27. Who doesn't love a little Jim Morrison and Janis Joplin?<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">◦ </span>The new blog design over at <a href="http://moxee.ws/" target="_blank">moxee</a>. Breanna has done a very beautiful, simple thing and it works perfectly! {Not to mention I'm digging the "YOU ARE A GEM" card in her paper shop!}<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">◦ </span>The fantastic <a href="http://abbykerrink.com/" target="_blank">Abby Kerr</a> tweeted about productivity & planning and shared an incredibly useful link to <a href="http://www.workflowy.com/" target="_blank">WorkFlowy</a>. It maps out a To-Do list and helps you keep tasks organized. Typically, I carry around a little notepad and write things down, but I might go totally digital with this.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">{...More Little Things}</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Celebrating birthdays <span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px;">∙</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"> Feeling productive</span></span></span> <span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px;">∙</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">The adorable photo shoot from 2008 with Maggie Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px;">∙</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"> Another successful weigh-in for The Biggest Loser challenge at work {I'm down another 1.6lbs!}</span> <span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px;">∙</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"> Stumbling across some more <a href="http://www.saltandpineblog.com/" target="_blank">really</a> <a href="http://feathersfreckles.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">lovely</a> <a href="http://www.livingonloveblog.com/" target="_blank">bloggers</a></span></span> <span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px;">∙</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"> Reading so many blogs about <a href="http://www.altitudesummit.com/" target="_blank">Alt Summit</a> and deciding that I want to be there in the future</span></span> <span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px;">∙</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"> A close match between Federer & Nadal at the <a href="http://www.australianopen.com/" target="_blank">Australian Open</a></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px;">∙</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"> </span></span> <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Knowing tennis season is less than 2 months away</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">{Photos from <a href="http://maggie-gyllenhaal.net/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=559" target="_blank">MaggieGyllenhaal.net</a>}</span></span></div>
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Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-32025703527347200182012-01-25T14:19:00.000-05:002012-01-25T15:17:45.596-05:00The Little Things {Smith's Minted Rose}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kb8Tx1WSE5Y/TyBU2tQ1lPI/AAAAAAAAAbY/XSsyLXqKyFA/s1600/smiths.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="341" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kb8Tx1WSE5Y/TyBU2tQ1lPI/AAAAAAAAAbY/XSsyLXqKyFA/s400/smiths.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Today's Little Thing is one of my all-time favorite cosmetic products. I never leave home without my Smith's Minted Rose Lip Balm. I love the tin & design, I love the smell, and I love how soft it makes my lips. </div>
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I actually love this little illustration so much I am considering framing it and hanging it above my vanity!</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-9934023249715484672012-01-20T19:14:00.002-05:002012-01-22T09:34:09.433-05:00How I Am Coping With My Pinterest Obsession<br />
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It seems that every so often I become downright obsessed with some sort of social media. I think it probably started back in the days of dial-up modems and America Online. My friends and I could spend hours chatting with complete strangers. A/S/L?<br />
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I have owned everything from an AOL screen name to a Xanga account. Chatting, blogging, vlogging, liking and poking. I have been there. Done that.<br />
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I just can’t get enough of connecting with people across the globe.<br />
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My newest obsession? <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest. </a><br />
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Pinterest is a virtual pinboard site that organizes and shares all of the things that you, and the rest of the world, find interesting and inspiring.<br />
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How does Pinterest work? It is incredibly easy to use. For example, while I’m on my usual blogroll and I see something I like ... a tasty recipe, an inspiring work of art, a do-it-yourself project I’d like to try, or various other things ranging from health and fitness to hunky actors ... instead of saving it to my bookmarks or various folders on my desktop, I can pin it to my boards and access it later.<br />
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You can install an app that will put a little ‘Pin It’ tab on your bookmarks bar of your browser. At the click of a button you can save the inspiring image, select how you want to categorize it, and continue surfing without having to leave the page.<br />
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Best of all, those images are linked on your Pinterest boards to the original website where you found it. Perfect for going back and finding a specific recipe or how-to instructions on DIY projects.<br />
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I can justify this obsession because, unlike with Facebook where I just unhealthy creep on people, with Pinterest I am actually using it to better my life. I have made two wreaths and other home decor objects, pieces of jewelry, and used it to inspire my hair, fashion and makeup. I think it is safe to accredit some of my recent weight loss and healthy decision making to my fitness board. And, I have made a dozen of the delicious recipes I have found there (they are so easy to pull up on my iPad and work from on the kitchen counter).<br />
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So go ahead, request an invite, start pinning, and become obsessed (but just make sure you do something with all of your fabulous finds).</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-31080640266175867232012-01-19T21:52:00.002-05:002012-01-22T09:29:51.772-05:00Things I Love Thursday - January 19, 2012<br />
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<li>Two weeks ago I purchased a new, wide-angle camera lens. I love it! Look at one of the awesome photos I captured with it already!</li>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NQ3Z-mOZq0k/TxjWB61Ig0I/AAAAAAAAAY0/KT4330pvlq8/s1600/000025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NQ3Z-mOZq0k/TxjWB61Ig0I/AAAAAAAAAY0/KT4330pvlq8/s400/000025.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<li>Being inspired to create art. I’ve been spending a lot of time with my pencils and watercolors. It makes me feel motivated and complete.</li>
<li>Being inspired to blog! This is not something I get done a lot {obviously} and in the past week I have not only posted here, but to the <a href="http://northcanton.patch.com/blog_posts/what-is-art-a-classrooms-response" target="_blank">North Canton Patch</a>, and also my <a href="http://theartclassroom1.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">art education blog</a>.</li>
<li>I am on week two of the Biggest Loser competition at work. In my first two weeks I’m already down 6.44% of my body weight! I feel good, healthy, and energized!</li>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">{...More Little Things}</span></b></div>
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Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis ∙ Vegan pizza - lots of veggies & Daiya cheese ∙ Wearing <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81951806/white-turquoise-beaded-bracelet-with?ref=tre-1001748278-3" target="_blank">this bracelet</a> that I received for Christmas ∙ ...and also, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84328647/gemstone-necklace-faceted-orange?ref=tre-997507671-1" target="_blank">this necklace</a> ∙ Watching new episodes of New Girl ∙ …and Jersey Shore ∙ <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">MyFitnessPal</a> {like I had mentioned earlier, I'm trying to reach my goal weight, and this app has been incredibly helpful in tracking my nutrition and exercise} ∙ Generous & sincere compliments about my writing & teaching ∙ Critiquing Golden Globes fashion and nominees with my husband {he'd probably be a little mortified if I let you know about this} ∙ Claire Danes, Sofia Vergara, and Rooney Mara's Golden Globes 2012 dresses ∙ Keeping really busy & pretty organized in 2012 ∙ Taking Noelle to be groomed & getting her back with a big, sparkley blue bow on her hot pink collar</div>
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<br /></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-31295139593465544002012-01-18T15:29:00.002-05:002012-01-22T09:50:28.314-05:00The Little Things {Avocado}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3fDm5CoCdpk/TxcrdY7FMtI/AAAAAAAAAYs/Ggu76DiE11Q/s1600/SCAN0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="399" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3fDm5CoCdpk/TxcrdY7FMtI/AAAAAAAAAYs/Ggu76DiE11Q/s400/SCAN0004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
A new Wednesday feature will be a small illustration called "The Little Things." A way of showing my love and appreciation for things I may overlook otherwise.<br />
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This week: Avocado. Yum.Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-41667658922531683732012-01-16T14:27:00.000-05:002012-01-22T09:40:14.923-05:00Color Board - Winter Whites<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i_WN-wWJ1os/TxRBurYa-4I/AAAAAAAAAYc/2eyexKTOmoQ/s1600/inspirationwinter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i_WN-wWJ1os/TxRBurYa-4I/AAAAAAAAAYc/2eyexKTOmoQ/s640/inspirationwinter.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">{Top Row - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89539943/ghost-necklace?ref=tre-1829458798-11" target="new">Ghost Necklace</a>; <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82989911/winter-rain-original-watercolor-painting" target="new">Winter Rain Original Watercolor</a>. Middle Row - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/78952489/claire-white-8x10-modern-art-print?ref=tre-1015101090-4" target="new">Claire White Modern Art Print</a>; <a href="http://fieldguided.blogspot.com/" target="new">fieldguided</a> blog. Bottom Row - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/elementclaystudio?ref=seller_info" target="new">element</a> ceramic wall tile; <a href="http://fleetfoxes.com/" target="new">Fleet Foxes</a>.}</span><br />
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Today's color board has everything to do with the snow that has finally started to fall here in Northeast Ohio. I'm trying very hard to enjoy it as I'm more of an Autumn sort of person. But the snow really is beautiful, even if it makes getting out of bed & getting to work difficult.<br />
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Most of the board are random finds on etsy, while two of them are just inspirational wintery day pleasures. First, Anabela at <a href="http://fieldguided.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">fieldguided</a> has fantastic posts, a gorgeous etsy site, and is just an all around beautiful person. Second, <a href="http://fleetfoxes.com/#music" target="_blank">Fleet Foxes</a>, a band that was introduced to me years ago on my cross-country road trip, is the perfect kind of music to get lost in over a hot cup of coffee and a cozy blanket.<br />
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And while your checking out the other items, make sure you take a longer look at Catherina's <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/dearcatherina?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">etsy site</a>. She has stunning watercolor illustrations. I <i>love </i>her fawns & dogs.</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-20920903501676891312012-01-15T14:10:00.001-05:002012-01-22T09:45:59.450-05:00Here's To A Healthy New Year /// 2012Can you believe we are already fifteen days into the New Year? How was 2011 for everyone? My 2011 was amazing, sad, and bittersweet. But isn't that life?<br />
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Nick and I had such an amazing wedding that it's hard to think about 2011 as anything but. However, with the loss of my grandfather, and other life threatening family emergencies, it really was a <i>rough</i> year.<br />
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I can honestly say, though, that 2011 made me a much better & stronger person. I'm grateful for my experiences and look to 2012 with a lot hope, dreams & new goals.</div>
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With out getting too carried away {mostly because I hope to save these topics for future posts} my goals for the year are more cooking, blogging, reading and painting. So far I've kept up with them all. Nick and I have even decided to take part in the Meatless Monday campaign. </div>
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This past week we dined on fresh, homemade Italian bread and yellow squash & zucchini chili. It was delicious!<br />
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</div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-59043971197771487972011-12-23T12:24:00.001-05:002012-01-22T09:39:11.224-05:00Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wx7pN1fPriM/TvS4H0DRwqI/AAAAAAAAAYU/HblxXgjPNPQ/s1600/504221062d6811e1a87612313804ec91_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wx7pN1fPriM/TvS4H0DRwqI/AAAAAAAAAYU/HblxXgjPNPQ/s400/504221062d6811e1a87612313804ec91_7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Since moving into our house over a year ago, I made it a point to paint my own Christmas card each year. Last year the design focused on the new house & recently adopted Noelle {our black lab/whippet mix.} And this year I decided that Noelle and the wedding should be the focus of 2011. </div>
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A new tradition has begun!</div>
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I hope everyone has a wonderful, relaxing long weekend with friends and family. Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!</div>
<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-71076004789845359302011-12-22T08:51:00.001-05:002012-01-22T09:34:43.149-05:00Whoa!So, I'm obviously not the most reliable when it comes to updating my blog. And crazy me, I've been toying with an artistic endeavor that will create an art shop on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/" target="new">etsy.com</a>. I'm hoping with my holiday vacation from work I might have the time to tackle this.
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The lovely <a href="http://www.maritzalugo.blogspot.com/" target="new">Maritza Lugo</a> (aka <a href="https://twitter.com/PolaRoid_Rage" target="new">@PolaRoid_Rage</a>, aka the illustrator for <a href="http://maritzalugo.blogspot.com/" target="new">HelloGiggles.com</a> Illustrated Tweet of the Day) has motivated me to get my stuff together. I'm going to at least update my blog with some of the more recent art projects I've been doing.
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Lately, my art has taken a turn from very polished & realistic to a little more colorful & whimsical. I'm enjoying it, and like I said, I'm working on a series of drawings that, hopefully, people of the internet world can appreciate.
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But anyways, here's a look at some of my more recent drawings & sketchbooks.
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pSD2y0_oiYM/TvM0EDW3ETI/AAAAAAAAAYA/6TbvqJtxjHY/s1600/6592cd602b8011e19896123138142014_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pSD2y0_oiYM/TvM0EDW3ETI/AAAAAAAAAYA/6TbvqJtxjHY/s200/6592cd602b8011e19896123138142014_7.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-upYcAAVqjf0/TvM0E_a6kHI/AAAAAAAAAYI/ixunADsBxF0/s1600/1eac9fd62c0a11e1abb01231381b65e3_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-upYcAAVqjf0/TvM0E_a6kHI/AAAAAAAAAYI/ixunADsBxF0/s200/1eac9fd62c0a11e1abb01231381b65e3_7.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6yZqQFMzPgc/TvMzDuPKW7I/AAAAAAAAAX0/ZE9I_WZtBxQ/s1600/5614743645_2972ee99a5_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6yZqQFMzPgc/TvMzDuPKW7I/AAAAAAAAAX0/ZE9I_WZtBxQ/s400/5614743645_2972ee99a5_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-31640453643697037672011-11-28T09:33:00.001-05:002012-01-22T09:38:44.463-05:00Thanksgiving CocktailsThis post will shock some of my closest followers as they had thought that I had abandoned them! But no, I had just been on a sort of personal blogging hiatus.
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My teaching job has me doing a lot of blogging from the classroom. In fact, I'm not only writing on my personal teaching blog, but I'm also an internet published blogger over at North Canton Patch. It's been exciting and has opened up a few very cool connections within my city.
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Anyways, I'll write more about my personal endeavors at another time, but for now I wanted to share my recipe for the drink my whole family devoured on Thanksgiving Day! {Or "Slopsgiving" as we were calling it!}
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Apple Pie Moonshine!
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My brother brought my husband and I a bottle of Everclear grain alcohol back from Kentucky and I had NO IDEA what I was going to do with it. He suggested I make some Apple Pie Moonshine to enjoy during Thanksgiving. I prepared this a few weeks in advance, although you can enjoy it right away, but I think it's better to let the flavors mellow.
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Bring 1 gallon apple cider, 1 gallon apple juice, 12 cinnamon sticks, and 3 cups white sugar to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool. Add liter of grain alcohol. Divvy up cinnamon sticks in 12 mason jars, pour out evenly, put on lids, and store in the fridge.
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It was so good! Straight from the bottle was very sweet, warm, and cinnamon-y, so we'd pout it into cups and add just a splash of regular apple cider to mellow it out even more.Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-9122146791644095812011-09-04T11:15:00.001-04:002012-01-22T09:35:13.198-05:00Wedding Photo Preview: Degas DanseuseThis past week Nick & I went to see the rest of the images <a href="http://www.genevievenisly.com/" target="new">Genevieve & James</a> took at our wedding. They are stunning! When I have them all in my possession I will be sure to share some of them here.<br />
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...But in the mean time, I am so drawn to this image that Genevieve captured of me getting ready. I can't help but feeling a little like one of Degas' dancers.<br />
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<center><span style="font-size: xx-small;">{Right - Painting by Degas, Left - Photo by <a href="http://genevievenislyblog.com/2011/06/13/wedding-at-the-joseph-saxton-gallery-of-photography-and-the-canton-club-at-the-joseph-saxton-gallery-of-photography-and-the-canton-club/" target="new">Genevieve Nisly</a>}</span></center>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-90114723882013162932011-08-30T14:35:00.000-04:002012-01-22T09:44:15.981-05:00Inspiration Board - Romeo + JulietThis inspiration board is heavily influenced by Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet. A mix of black & white with pops of red & turquoise, religious iconography, and a mix of soft femininity & hard urban style. <br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">{Top Row - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61411582/isadora-feather-headband-fascinator-with" target="new">Feather Fascinator</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65507778/flaming-sacred-heart-silhouette-earrings" target="new">Flaming Sacred Heart Earrings</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73267815/cherry-almond-scented-lotion-bar-heart" target="new">Cherry Almond Solid Lotion</a>; Middle Row - <a href="http://www.gracegloriadenis.com/god-speed" target="new">Photo by Grace Dennis</a>, Leonardo DiCaprio in Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80715538/vintage-blue-enamel-virgin-mary-at?ref=sc_1" target="new">Vintage Virgin Mary Medal</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79066087/remarkable-templar-relic-discovery?ref=sr_list_1&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=relic+angel&ga_view_type=list&ga_ship_to=US&ga_noautofacet=1&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade%2Fart" target="new">Templar Relic Etching</a>; Bottom Row - <a href="http://img11.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=99681_LangSS97_2_122_441lo.jpg" target="new">Heart and Dagger by Mapplethrope for Helmut Lang</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52901101/offertory-candles-8x10-fine-art-print?ref=sr_list_11&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=altar&ga_view_type=list&ga_ship_to=US&ga_noautofacet=1&ga_page=2&ga_language_carousel=no&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade%2Fart%2Fphotography" target="new">Offertory Candles Fine Art Prints</a>}</span></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-69738125779478985172011-08-17T11:25:00.004-04:002011-08-17T14:51:10.916-04:00Color Board - Mellow Yellows<center>This board should also be called "Wishlist Wednesday" because there is not a thing on this board that I would turn down. Beautiful, simple, mellow. Enjoy your Wednesday!<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TwCQ2R4txu0/Tkvd4EtQ8aI/AAAAAAAAAVw/5LStcBx8ly4/s1600/MELLOWYELLOW.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 493px; height: 500px;" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-TwCQ2R4txu0/Tkvd4EtQ8aI/AAAAAAAAAVw/5LStcBx8ly4/s512/MELLOWYELLOW.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641846913617686946" /></a></center><center><font size=1><div>{Top Row - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/59979506/the-dancer-tiny-canvas-print" target="new">The Dancer/Tiny Canvas Print</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73113033/stack-of-twig-rings-sterling-and-14k-y" target="new">Stack of Twigs Rings</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76850995/lace-necklace-muse-jonquil" target="new">Lace Necklace</a>; Bottom Row - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58164855/scribble-tumbler-in-yolk-second" target="new">Scribble Tumbler in Yolk</a>, <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/decorating/tips-techniques/color-combinations-00100000062372/index.html#6" target="new">Gold Butter & Cream Room</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72477414/turkish-bath-towel-peshtemal-linen" target="new">Turkish Linen Bath Towel</a>}</div></center></font>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00201905618926237350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7497074258641854378.post-53159013829722949332011-08-16T21:13:00.006-04:002012-01-22T09:45:24.129-05:00Art UpdateThursday evening I will be out on the Piazza at Gervasi Vineyard with a small table of art for sale, taking commissions, and working on art with a wood fire pizza and glass of wine by my side.<br />
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Thought I would show you my most current piece that I just finished, featuring Florence Welch of Florence + The Machine.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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