Wednesday, August 18, 2010
This.
I happened upon this great sculpture earlier in the year when we had a day out for Jim's birthday.
Lately, I have found a lot of things in my life that I am encountering look like one thing from afar, but when I get closer and take the time to really look at something
I have been finding nice little surprises waiting for me. Now if I could only find a paint swatch the color of that 'club soda' bottle cap.
Monday, August 16, 2010
This Was Just a Strange Place.
Recently Jim and the girls and I made the pilgrimage to Baltimore to the home of Edgar
Allen Poe. Grace is a huge fan and we had to go not only to his house
but to his grave as well. We drove by the house on our first pass and
mistook it for a place one might buy....well to be exact, crack. We finally realized we were in
the right place and we were buzzed in by the sole employee and I'm assuming founder
of the EAP museum. We were lucky that the man was not dressed as Poe, several
videos being shown on the premises let us know this was one of his
favorite pastimes. Other than him, I found this to be a little strange.
Where did they go? I suspect the Poe wanna be running the place may have taken them
to some laboratory to attempt to clone Poe. Alas, that is not to be as Poe lies here...
waiting for his birthday, when every year some mysterious person leaves a snifter of brandy and
a red rose on Poe's grave. Gee, I wonder who that could be. Well, at least
the Poe guy is following his passion and living his dream
We should all be so lucky!
Saturday, August 14, 2010
BlogHer 2010....Better Late Than Never?
Not that I am showing off, but there will be some name dropping in this post. I recently travelled with my blogging partner in crime Anne Marie of Military Martha to New York City, this year's home of BlogHer 10. There were lessons and lectures but most of all there were parties. And on that note...
Yes, that is the queen of domesticity, non other than the grand dame of 'Good Things' Ms. Martha Stewart. Now, let's be clear right off the bat. This was an invite only party and I did not have an invite. Would I let a little detail like that stop me? Anne Marie had an invite, I had to get in too. This it where it becomes clear that sometimes stalking does pay off. I had launched an all out campaign on Twitter to get an invite. Martha's people were SO familiar with my name that they thought they had invited me. I'm going with the theory that they did and I somehow missed that email (even though I was checking my inbox on an hourly basis waiting for it) and that I am not really a Martha Stewart party crasher. No matter how I got in, it was worth it!
After we walked through Martha's New York headquarters, a beautiful industrial building with 360* views on the Hudson river, we were handed champagne and entered this gauntlet of loveliness.
I'm still wondering if this woman was a prop or an actual blogger. Her dress matched a little too well. I could see Martha hiring people to stand around and match the decor.
When we finally got into the real inner sanctum, this heavily tattooed, vegan, Martha fan took a picture of MY tattoo. I wonder if Martha has a tattoo? Maybe of a chow chow or a French bull dog, or "It's a Good Thing" right above her a&$. It was great to meet so many different people at the martha party. The owner of this beautiful artwork blogs here at Pink Velvet Bird. Check it out. While chatting and wildly gesticulating, I of course almost had to trash the place when my large man hands almost took out this...
lovely Oreo wedding cake that I know Martha herself must have taken hours to build. Crisis was averted when my tattooed buddy grabbed my hand, averting disaster.
While these were an example of very attractive party bags, I am glad to report this is NOT what we left with. Martha and her people were very generous and every blogger left loaded down with not one, but two tote bags full of loot, ranging from magazines, to hole punches, to paint and more! Thank you Martha!
Our next stop was The AOL Daily Kitchen party, featuring Jim's favorite Top Chef Master, Marcus Samuelson.
Here we got to watch Marcus cook, taste Marcus' food, get pedicures and drink martinis. Oh, and they had the best bathroom in town.
We had a great time at Blogher. The partying slowed down after the first night. We continued to hobnob with the celebrities. We met Mrs. Potato Head, the Pilsbury Dough Boy, and Tamara of The Real Housewives of OC fame, just to name a few.
It was incredible to be surrounded by so many talented women. Women who are writers, photographers, activists, chefs, techies, doctors, health specialists, lawyers, mothers, meat eaters, vegans and everything in between. I came away from the weekend with a fire lit under me, to be true to myself and to share that truth with the world!
But the best part of all...
Was spending time with my brother. In the end, no brush with celebrity can trump family!
(I know this picture is smaller and poor quality but it is the most important one in the post!)
Friday, July 23, 2010
THE CATS OF MIRIKITANI
One person can make a difference and we never know who is doing the helping. The Cats of Mirikitani, is a moving documentary about Jimmy Mirikitani a homeless artist in NYC.
We follow Jimmy and a woman as they befriend each other and their lives are forever intertwined as they experience September 11, 2001 and the changes it brings to their lives and their relationship.
Jimmy shares his lifelong love of art that has seen him through Japanese internment camps in California, as well as his world wise views on a post September 11th world. A need to help him along in the world rewards his female companion with a lifelong friendship with a man who needed her help as much as she needed his.
Treat yourself to a summer movie afternoon. Draw the shades and watch the Cats of Mirikitani. You won't be the same after the credits roll.
We follow Jimmy and a woman as they befriend each other and their lives are forever intertwined as they experience September 11, 2001 and the changes it brings to their lives and their relationship.
Jimmy shares his lifelong love of art that has seen him through Japanese internment camps in California, as well as his world wise views on a post September 11th world. A need to help him along in the world rewards his female companion with a lifelong friendship with a man who needed her help as much as she needed his.
Treat yourself to a summer movie afternoon. Draw the shades and watch the Cats of Mirikitani. You won't be the same after the credits roll.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
DC Rollergirls at the DC Armory
Yes, I have been away for awhile. I have been in training....I have a try out on Friday to enter a roller derby boot camp. Stop laughing! I'll keep you posted.
Creative stuff tomorrow---I promise. Off to practice!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
My fixation on Gaudi
Several years ago Sarah (eldest daughter) and I took a little holiday weekend to Barcelona. The official goal was to brush up on our Spanish. The actual goal became to ingest as much of Antonio Gaudi's world as possible in three days.
If I could crawl inside of anyone's brain for a day, it would be this revolutionary architect. I can't fathom having his vision, let alone actually bringing it to life and leaving it as a gift for those who have come behind him.
Check your expectations at the door and enter a small corner of the world of Gaudi.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
BRAVO!
Last night Bravo premiered it's newest reality show, Work of Art. Similar to Project Runway and Top Chef in concept, Bravo has gathered a slew of aspiring artist and brought them to a communal studio to compete and see who remains the lone artist standing.
Personally, I am thrilled to see Bravo go out on a limb and give their creative audience something that doesn't involve screaming housewives (although you know I love them too) lampooning each other.
We will see how long the Bravo editing crew can control themselves and we begin to see the artists devouring each other to get to the top, in the mean time though I think we have something interesting to watch. Watching an artist's process never fails to fascinate me, and we get a whole studio full of them here.
I would love to name a few favorites right off the bat but I am going to limit it to one in this post (I think you will have to put up with several posts about this show, reader!)
My hands down favorite right off the bat has to be Mark. I'm not going to lie, I love him because he is from my home town. I don't know him, but I know where he comes from. It's not easy to be an artistic type in a small town. Even a small town in California near the beach. Our town is an agricultural community. Rodeo and country music are huge. Cowboy boots are seen just as much as flip flops and china flats. It is a so nice to see someone from home get this kind of national exposure. I'm rooting for you Mark! Make Santa Maria proud.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Out of Illness, Inspiration.
Having been home sick the past few days has given me a chance to catch up on my netflix que and my Amazon rentals.
I was blown away by the documentary 'Beautiful Losers' an account of a group of post punk era artists who came into their own together during the early 90's. The film follows them from their skateboarding, flophouse, New York and California roots to the counter culture art leaders they are today.
I was especially touched by artist Margaret Kilgallen an artist I had never heard of, who without my even knowing has influenced my work in so many ways. Her life was cut short by cancer, but she shared herself with the world in a profound way while she was here.
Now that I have seen the film, I am adding the book that also chronicles the artists to my wish list. Hopefully, I don't have to get sick again to make the time to read it!
In reverse order I have read and re-read the book 'Handmade Nation' and finally took the time to watch the film made in conjunction with the book. The film is available to rent on Amazon for a mere $1.99 for a week's access. Not even knowing it was possible to 'rent' from Amazon, I found that to be great value for money.
'Handmade Nation' explores the DIY crafting community that grew out of the same punk movement that inspired 'Beautiful Losers'. More about crafting as a way to make a living, than crafting for the sake of craft this film showcases a number of successful artists who have made a lifestyle into a living.
Even if you aren't in need of a little inspiration these are both must see films. If you happen to be a 40ish post punk wanna be artist 'Beautiful Losers' will take you back to your glory days and make you wonder what ever happened to that kid in high school with the mohawk who drew comics for
'Thrasher Magazine' could he be the one that came up with that VW ad you like so much?
I was blown away by the documentary 'Beautiful Losers' an account of a group of post punk era artists who came into their own together during the early 90's. The film follows them from their skateboarding, flophouse, New York and California roots to the counter culture art leaders they are today.
I was especially touched by artist Margaret Kilgallen an artist I had never heard of, who without my even knowing has influenced my work in so many ways. Her life was cut short by cancer, but she shared herself with the world in a profound way while she was here.
Now that I have seen the film, I am adding the book that also chronicles the artists to my wish list. Hopefully, I don't have to get sick again to make the time to read it!
In reverse order I have read and re-read the book 'Handmade Nation' and finally took the time to watch the film made in conjunction with the book. The film is available to rent on Amazon for a mere $1.99 for a week's access. Not even knowing it was possible to 'rent' from Amazon, I found that to be great value for money.
'Handmade Nation' explores the DIY crafting community that grew out of the same punk movement that inspired 'Beautiful Losers'. More about crafting as a way to make a living, than crafting for the sake of craft this film showcases a number of successful artists who have made a lifestyle into a living.
Even if you aren't in need of a little inspiration these are both must see films. If you happen to be a 40ish post punk wanna be artist 'Beautiful Losers' will take you back to your glory days and make you wonder what ever happened to that kid in high school with the mohawk who drew comics for
'Thrasher Magazine' could he be the one that came up with that VW ad you like so much?
Thursday, June 3, 2010
The Younger
When does it happen?
When do they shift away from you?
I wish I had known it was going to happen with the older girls.
They are gone. Their own people. Their own issues.
The younger two trust and believe. The older two question and doubt.
When it is just the younger two at home, I am all knowing.
When an older girl appears, I suddenly loose all credibility and life experience.
I am old and stupid.
When the younger two are at home there is squabbling and shoving.
When an older sister appears there is yelling and blame.
I hear they will shift back,
that gravity brings them home.
Once again I will be believed.
Once again I will hold them close.
When we are all older and wiser.
The Older
Friday, May 21, 2010
Can I Find What I Need at the Brooklyn Flea?
Thanks to Design Sponge for posting this photo before I hit the flea market!
How cool are these lights?
This is a restaurant in California that has had a recent makeover.
Can the design team come to my house next?
Since they probably can't,
I will find cool wire baskets at the Brooklyn flea and give it a go!
Wish me luck.
photo by Kari Pfeffer
Thursday, May 20, 2010
It's Time For a Field Trip!
We are hitting the road, headed to Brooklyn for the bust craftacular.
Good food, creative types, hanging out with my brother and my good friend Elizabeth, what more
could a girl ask for?
Before that we are trying our luck at the Brooklyn Flea.
What treasures will we uncover? More importantly, what will we be able
to afford?
Stay tuned for a full report on our New York adventure.
And you thought Carrie and the girls were wild!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
If you Follow......PLEASE let me know.
Jim always reminds me, if you build it, they will come.So many of you come to Libby's World. You tell me in e-mails, phone calls and over coffee. Since you visit, will you follow? I had to take the follower feature off my blog for awhile because it was too depressing to have only three followers. I was sure other, more successful bloggers were laughing at me, behind my blog. Well, I've decided three followers is something to be proud of. I have put the "follow" feature back on the blog. So please....I'm begging....will you follow?
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Monday, May 17, 2010
I may have to get out my favorite set of wheels again.
Banana seat
This is a yellow version of the blue "Lady Stingray" that I rocked during my formative cycling years. It even has the exact seat! Oh, the wonder years.
Join
With a lot of my neighbors headed into DC for their very special tea parties (I can't figure out why they don't invite me!) this is a movement I can get behind. So come on my people, let's join that coffee party movement!
Baby Tooth Holder
I love this! The tooth fairy sometimes passes us by...I don't know why she seems to forget us. However if we had this adorable holder to contain the goods, I have a feeling she would be to our house with bells on!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Look what I was up to last night!
Not only did I get to see 'The English Beat' one of my all time favorite bands but they actually played a song for me! I sent a quick request via facebook before the show and the next thing I know, I'm in the front row and Dave is singing to me! We even spent some time with him after the show. You know you are old when you finally meet Dave Wakeling and you spend the time talking about the fact that you each have four kids and he is a grandfather!
I guess it just shows patience pays off. I have loved them since I was 14 and finally ten years later (OK 27) I get to chat with my teenage self's crush! I'm a little older and a little wiser but I have to say....my heart was pounding!
I guess it just shows patience pays off. I have loved them since I was 14 and finally ten years later (OK 27) I get to chat with my teenage self's crush! I'm a little older and a little wiser but I have to say....my heart was pounding!
Monday, April 26, 2010
The French Apartment
Here is my partner in crime, Anne Marie. She is stealing these pillows from our new friend Cathleen who owns the adorable shop 'The French Apartment'. You may think I am kidding when I say AM stole the pillows. I'm not. Kathleen was giving things away. Check out her shop the next time you are in Georgetown!
Pastries
What is a French market without French pastries? I must say, as good as I have been being lately in my food consumption, I still had to partake!
My New French Friend
We had a great day with loads of finds. I don't know if it was because we got there early or we just had good luck, but I will be there next year with bells on!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Friday, April 9, 2010
I Heart Laksaware!
I found these on flickr. The photos were uploaded by Trisha Brink Design but as far as I can tell she purchased them at laksaware on etsy. Check them out. What a great housewarming gift! Or maybe just give yourself a little something.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
At Last
I think the last time I managed a blog post my computer looked like this! Sorry to everyone waiting to be interviewed and to those of you waiting to read said interviews. I am back in the saddle! I don't quite know how I get so derailed when all of the kids are home. I'm blaming it on them, really it was the glorious weather. After the arctic winter we had, I had 4567 projects to work on outside. I guess I should just take my computer outside and set up shop in the back yard.
But then who would prune my juniper bushes?
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