tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31904456447100615522024-02-19T04:07:11.297-05:00Poppy and MandarinNicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.comBlogger159125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-60916331213293180422013-01-18T00:17:00.000-05:002013-01-18T00:17:25.980-05:00I've got some new digs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXusPrbGVwNH5Qdhc7JoFumVZmnHVd2JDn0kGG_YmXTTPOmRw-7TgCyQGj_yy_CmI6ETjkL4spUA7FMMPZkX6EyuEKzmJqBjf9raFoqn3N7mYZPRI80O1FEd13-z3MJSpLWZFgnP_UpI/s1600/Nicole-A-Yang-the-Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXusPrbGVwNH5Qdhc7JoFumVZmnHVd2JDn0kGG_YmXTTPOmRw-7TgCyQGj_yy_CmI6ETjkL4spUA7FMMPZkX6EyuEKzmJqBjf9raFoqn3N7mYZPRI80O1FEd13-z3MJSpLWZFgnP_UpI/s1600/Nicole-A-Yang-the-Blog.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's been a
long time since I've posted on here. I've taken quite a few months to
really think about what I'd like to share with the world and what I want
my blog to be. Dozens of blogs, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest have
overloaded my senses and left me jaded. Now, I hope to return to the
basics, focus on what I love in hopes that you'll love it, too, and
start fresh. </div>
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I'm moving my blog to a new site and testing the waters with this new outlook in mind. Please join me!</div>
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<i><b><a href="http://nicoleayang.com/blog">Click here to take a look around my new space.</a></b></i></div>
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Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-18634003685234088002012-10-10T06:00:00.000-04:002012-10-10T06:00:05.569-04:00letterpressed and edge painted business cardsSometimes you get a client that wants everything you want -- and that is a wonderful blessing. I had so much fun working with the ladies of <a href="http://www.eventsluxe.com/">Events Luxe</a> in St. Louis on their new business cards and note cards. Their name says it all: they're an event planning company that creates gorgeous high end productions, highly detailed and bursting with customized concepts. I LOVE that their new business cards reflect just that.<br />
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I worked with <a href="http://www.mamas-sauce.com/">Mama's Sauce</a> to make these cards and so enjoyed the process. They're one of the nicest printers I've ever worked with and were always on the phone discussing nerdy printing specs and paper textures with me (so of course I love them). <br />
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We added in some bright chartreuse edge painting for a fun pop of modern color on their otherwise simplistic business card. A blind letterpress pattern on the front gives them a luxurious texture without the visual clutter. Their "el" logo on the back, which was originally conceptualized as blind letterpress, gets a little glam with some ivory foil. I had never seen ivory foil before, but it's gorgeous! It's got a wonderful sheen without the metallic of silver, and gives more depth to the card than a matte white foil or clear gloss would.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGuNzl37SqgRWSRxcxhFK_OvZ45wXYSUIMxC4gseyYZZK1B9BgDwE2raTABF4RSqVaHj4nCcyCV-Wci1r2A3s-yo7xNwANnJ3U5Air_B7F7QQrw84H5aVYqSOVTbekdLVAAwOM1kvYhw/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGuNzl37SqgRWSRxcxhFK_OvZ45wXYSUIMxC4gseyYZZK1B9BgDwE2raTABF4RSqVaHj4nCcyCV-Wci1r2A3s-yo7xNwANnJ3U5Air_B7F7QQrw84H5aVYqSOVTbekdLVAAwOM1kvYhw/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" /></a></div>
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Some luxe business cards were paired with digitally printed A2 folded note cards that the ladies are packaging with gorgeous plum envelopes.<br />
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<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-53451782538581616102012-09-24T06:00:00.000-04:002012-09-24T06:00:12.341-04:00a fall collectionIt's fall! I actually totally forgot that fall was officially coming this weekend. Probably because for the past few weeks, I've been obsessed with the fact that it was <i>still hot gross summer</i>.<br />
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I've been looking forward to roasting marshmallows, scarves, cozy socks and wearing jeans again. It's made me think about getting some new denim. You know you always have that one pair that you love so much you never take them off. That pair for me was a find at<a href="http://www.fossil.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/HomeView?langId=-1&storeId=12052&catalogId=25005&N=0"> Fossil </a>over a year ago. The dark wash and perfect fit on me is something I don't think I can ever replicate. So, I'm heading back to Fossil. :)<br />
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I love their fall collection -- it's a little bit equestrian and a little masculine. Dark and fall-inspired is just what I'm craving. How amazing is this outfit?<br />
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A few of my other favorite items from their fall collection include the <a href="http://www.fossil.com/en_US/shop/women/clothing/knits_tees/chelsea_top-wc6383p.html?parent_category_rn=331120&departmentCategoryId=331097&pn=c&cm_vc=343586&imagePath=WC6383721">Chelsea top</a>, the adorable <a href="http://www.fossil.com/en_US/shop/women/accessories/novelty/giraffe_key_fob-sl3940p.html?parent_category_rn=331164&departmentCategoryId=331097&pn=c&cm_vc=331165&imagePath=SL3940559">giraffe key fob</a>, their <a href="http://www.fossil.com/en_US/shop/women/accessories/scarves/stripe_chambray_scarf-lws1174p.html?parent_category_rn=331164&departmentCategoryId=331097&pn=c&cm_vc=331168&imagePath=LWS1174566">striped chambray scarf</a> (Ah! I must have it!) and the <a href="http://www.fossil.com/en_US/shop/women/handbag_collections/vintage_revival/vintage_revival_satchel-zb5425p.html?parent_category_rn=331133&departmentCategoryId=331097&beginIndex=0&pageSize=1000&pn=c&cm_vc=339085&imagePath=ZB5425220">Vintage Revival Satchel</a> in rust.</div>
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Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-28370031763998423662012-09-17T06:00:00.000-04:002012-09-17T06:00:13.985-04:00wrap it up prettyI feel a bit jaded by the blog world lately. Sometimes I love how easy it is to find inspiration and ideas everywhere. Nowadays, however, I'm craving a style and an approach that's all my own and I find that I'm way too influenced by the things that I see and hear instead of the things that I imagine.<br />
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I've started thinking about grown-up things like where I see myself in one year, three years, five years, what my career goals are and which days are best to go to the grocery store. Taking time away from Google Reader has helped me hone in on that a bit -- the things I really want instead of the things I think I'm supposed to want. <br />
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Another great step? I finished up some collateral design work (new business cards and note cards) for a client recently and received their prints in the mail. It's so rejuvenating to see the tangible products of my work, to feel good about what I've done and excited to share the end product.<br />
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I wrapped it up nicely with some tissue paper and bias cut fabric ribbon, then stuck my new note cards and business cards in there. It feels good to send it away. Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-22623628576033393302012-09-10T06:00:00.000-04:002012-09-10T06:00:03.242-04:00loving Old NavyI was avoiding <a href="http://oldnavy.com/">Old Navy</a> for a few years. When you're 10, that's totally the place to shop (and mostly because that's just where Mom took you). When you're 14, you feel like wearing hot pink punky statement pieces and wish you were cool enough to even step inside a Hot Topic (or you were a Hollister frequenter, strong enough to withstand the smack of colognes and perfumes that permeated any 20 foot radius of the place and had the magical power of spotting exactly what you wanted even though the store was dark enough for a vampire to live in).<br />
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Fast forward a few years when you're a broke college kid and Target just isn't doing it for you. Old Navy is theoretically the place to go. Owned by the same company that birthed <a href="http://gap.com/">Gap</a> and <a href="http://bananarepublic.com/">Banana Republic</a>, you expect it to be the funky younger sister of the other stores. But for awhile it wasn't. For awhile, they were bland and kind of low-quality. Their stores were messy and always low-stocked. (Oddly, during this time, I found my favorite shoes at Old Navy.)<br />
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But now, Old Navy is turning around. I went into an Old Navy the other day that had candy at the checkout line. And space ice cream! And books! And Cliff bars! And my size in everything! Way cool. It was at this and I found <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85223&vid=1&pid=253887&scid=253887022">my new all time favorite pants</a>.<br />
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I know I said in <a href="http://poppyandmandarin.blogspot.com/2012/07/blog-neglect.html">this post</a> that I'd be wearing Gap pants all the time, but it didn't work out. I brought them home and they fit awkwardly. You know, with that weird pulling around the hips. No good. <a href="http://oldnavy.com/">Old Navy's</a> where it's at. For now. </div>
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-17272265136726180042012-09-05T06:00:00.000-04:002012-09-05T06:00:12.442-04:00fallYou know those days when you hunker down in a coffee shop to work, you're sipping on coffee and donning a scarf and the world feels like it's made a cozy place for you to exist in for a few hours?<br />
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And then you step outside and its a bazillion degrees out and it just rained so you can practically swim in the humidity? Yeah. That sucks.<br />
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I thought I would be very anti-post-Labor day since that often signals the end of summer, but for the first time maybe ever, I'm ready for temperatures to drop. As the intern at work said yesterday, "I just want to wear pants."<br />
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<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-25358963991382903942012-08-27T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-27T06:00:04.548-04:00projects for BRYANThe cool thing about having creative friends who aren't in your same concentration is that there's a lot of opportunity to collaborate on a larger project. A month or so ago, my boyfriend asked me if I'd like to take a shot at designing a poster for his short film, BRYAN. I usually work in editorial or branding design, so this was something new to me.<br />
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The first piece was an event poster for a fundraiser taking place at Roth Brewing. The fun part always begins with incorporating both parties' visual concepts. In this case, a sun rise and logo for Roth, and a profile and spotlight effect for BRYAN. I'm pretty happy with the way this one turned out, especially with the typography at the bottom, which is my favorite thing to play with.<br />
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The fundraiser was on Friday and it was a great success! It's wonderful and heart-warming to see so many of our friends support and get excited for this project, and I was so happy to meet many more people who are making this film come alive.<br />
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Just in case you want to contribute or read more about the short film, BRYAN, you can check out their Indiegogo campaign <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/bryan-shortfilm">here</a> or you watch this little video :)<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="338" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8EWmA07FHNg" width="601"></iframe>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-2296506520478313062012-08-22T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-22T06:00:01.643-04:00puzzledI'm not a fan of card games or board games, but I'm all over some puzzles lately. I like that they require just enough brain power to keep you engaged, but not so much that it feels like work. They're great for days when you're stressed and need to take your mind off of things. These wooden ones are my favorite.<br /><br />
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<b>A.</b> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68691906/puzzle-ball">Puzzle Ball</a><br />
<b>B.</b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/95054895/wood-cube-puzzle-solid-reclaimed-cherry"> Cube Puzzle</a><br />
<b>C.</b> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86640644/handcrafted-wooden-burr-puzzle-medium">Burr Puzzle</a><br />
<b>D.</b> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/98421833/pentomino-puzzle-solid-ash-wood-puzzle">Pentomino Puzzle</a><br />
<b>E.</b> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/77716040/mini-turtle-puzzle-sustainable-harvest">Mini Turtle Puzzle</a>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-55319648114815965462012-08-20T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-20T06:00:06.468-04:00teaI know it's the middle of summer, but I've been craving hot tea and soup for days now. What's that all about? Don't get me wrong, I am <i>not </i>ready for fall, but I am enjoying keeping an eye out for some new tea cups to snuggle up on the couch with.<br />
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From top to bottom: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/100186968/vintage-pink-tea-cups-and-saucers">Swirling Orange on Etsy</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/105784031/foley-tea-cup-and-saucer-blue-and-white">Pinky Spring on Etsy</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/95115343/vintage-shelley-oleander-mint-green-with">Two Little Owls on Etsy</a>.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-8263337932300104132012-08-13T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-13T06:00:13.758-04:00kitchen artOf all the spaces in my apartment, the kitchen is the most drab. I love that it has an open layout with a bar opening it up to the dining room and the living room. However, the light counter tops, creamy walls, white cabinets and white appliances just aren't doing it for me. There isn't even any hardware on the cabinets -- an easy way to change the look of a kitchen. My goal from the get-go was to hang some art on the walls. Maybe some fun calligraphy menus or vintage food posters -- nothing food cutesy.<br />
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But then I saw this from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheWordShop?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">The Word Shop</a>:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTKKlAEESYtkgpQkGsdsMUYnd9TlA1WQM02KCehG8_zfpMjjC2entqOLO3pJjvxgPBamA3GQaK7sk4EVKMaDvO8v8LItLPt5IQRdTT0N1K1rUiV01XcJMxLfjl-CXK-dmhtbgW8Tn7Yeo/s1600/the+word+shop.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTKKlAEESYtkgpQkGsdsMUYnd9TlA1WQM02KCehG8_zfpMjjC2entqOLO3pJjvxgPBamA3GQaK7sk4EVKMaDvO8v8LItLPt5IQRdTT0N1K1rUiV01XcJMxLfjl-CXK-dmhtbgW8Tn7Yeo/s1600/the+word+shop.jpg" /> </a></div>
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I love that it's a cute take on the old butcher prints and diagrams. (Although it does make the sad that the cutest print they have is of a pig, my favorite farm animal.) Then, I almost died when I saw that <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheWordShop?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">The Word Shop</a> makes butcher prints of dinosaurs, too. Hilarious.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFrdRck_PE-hEBpnKf84_fpdykmgtXUR0nW9fZMuh64ySPysqtV6k2VhetYZrEjEoSbj4-3m9zBW8hMjfJSRLkwF-73YqwQUUrml2XjW6LwQ7HvKAun82XaYzYrbqdLDKCZoMeLz8n9w/s1600/the+word+shop+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFrdRck_PE-hEBpnKf84_fpdykmgtXUR0nW9fZMuh64ySPysqtV6k2VhetYZrEjEoSbj4-3m9zBW8hMjfJSRLkwF-73YqwQUUrml2XjW6LwQ7HvKAun82XaYzYrbqdLDKCZoMeLz8n9w/s1600/the+word+shop+3.jpg" /></a></div>
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I think the little piggy might be cute hanging above my oven. I'd love to frame him with some colorful mat. I'm crazy about the way this vintage Vogue cover looks with shades of pink.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPgn4nODhdHhfsOzhcTA-DpdTqPI_3OXB89ThIGXWVEgvHn0ju4eZcZ62hCW4l8HwjyJMOZJoGlR8x8MWlYnNjedPOkD4p-PfiIO0m2YOfJBxPJyb4MFMmfHJr50QLSJ5IHEjtTYkm4uI/s1600/Vogue+frame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPgn4nODhdHhfsOzhcTA-DpdTqPI_3OXB89ThIGXWVEgvHn0ju4eZcZ62hCW4l8HwjyJMOZJoGlR8x8MWlYnNjedPOkD4p-PfiIO0m2YOfJBxPJyb4MFMmfHJr50QLSJ5IHEjtTYkm4uI/s1600/Vogue+frame.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://www.art.com/me/inspiringspaces1/gallery/bold-moves/item/17435571.htm?vt=gv">art.com</a></td></tr>
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Ideally, there would be some pops of color in the print to pull out and highlight, but I still love the concept for black and whites.<br />
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<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-49422965817193297102012-08-07T06:30:00.000-04:002012-08-07T06:30:00.820-04:00the secret to cleaningThe secret to enjoying the cleaning process is enjoying the products you use. (A compulsive need to see things go from icky to sparkly doesn't hurt too much, either.) I learned this on Sunday, the day after I got my new vacuum. Though I love cleaning, I do hate vacuuming. And mopping. Floor-related things. However, my new orange vacuum made me really excited to run that thing around my carpet.<br />
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A few cleaning items that might actually make you excited to do chores (if you're a nerd like me):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HDeD7UYNDbgnWDOUWa9kC-ib024CIUtNdAtsIP3VeiYHEy_FltMEGstFW5BlnNqzZ_jNAJO6euQKRMueZIL6qS6IIBLcnT5UK-fqd_w87FKxtROUcTNzc3u4AgbZ1OTQ_87n-a-Hcvg/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-cleaning-supplies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HDeD7UYNDbgnWDOUWa9kC-ib024CIUtNdAtsIP3VeiYHEy_FltMEGstFW5BlnNqzZ_jNAJO6euQKRMueZIL6qS6IIBLcnT5UK-fqd_w87FKxtROUcTNzc3u4AgbZ1OTQ_87n-a-Hcvg/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-cleaning-supplies.jpg" /></a></div>
A <a href="http://www.target.com/p/baby-brezza-cleaning-brush/-/A-13773912" target="_blank">scrubby brush</a> with a modern, colorful handle.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mrsmeyers.com/Products/Household_Cleaners/Basil_Automatic_Dish_Packs" target="_blank">Mrs. Meyer's</a> always makes cleaning fun, especially when you get to look at her fun packaging and smell her sweet scents.<br />
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An <a href="http://www.target.com/p/dirt-devil-easy-lite-cyclonic-quick-vac/-/A-12649682" target="_blank">orange vacuum</a>? 'Nuff said. It works perfectly for my little apartment and the price is definitely within budget.<br />
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<a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/laundry/laundryDetergentsClothingCare?productId=10030164&N=80458" target="_blank">Stain solution</a> that's beloved by many and looking as clean and sharp as you want your clothes to be.<br />
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Absorbent, soft, and sometimes scrub-worthy <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mu-kitchen-5-pc-waffle-dish-cloth-dish-towel-set-grass-green/-/A-13189308?reco=Rec%7Cpdp%7C13189308%7CClickCP%7Citem_page.adjacency&lnk=Rec%7Cpdp%7CClickCP%7Citem_page.adjacency" target="_blank">towels</a> are a must.<br />
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Stick everything in a bold-patterned <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/storage/handledBinsBaskets?productId=10033105&N=71233&Nao=20" target="_blank">container</a>.<br />
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Protect your hands with clean white <a href="http://www.cleanerhomeliving.com/shop/index.cfm/page/Bliss-Premium-Latex-Free-Glove-Medium/pk/category/pid/44937/cid/44888" target="_blank">gloves</a> that have an extra soft lining.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-73244423481091623882012-07-31T06:00:00.000-04:002012-07-31T06:00:03.985-04:00birthdays<b>Today I am 22.</b> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZ2crVoymIZARzit3ktm3SfkndlJW3vH0CXCRjX4jsSAk1xeEZqBZ4XsQJPhpctsxiG_ZcRtQCHSg3797bAOshtkyfC8u98KG8aJNA7dhtZMxzml6rRJv0WRV5eKqEta7xEE7HOtI-tQ/s1600/birthday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZ2crVoymIZARzit3ktm3SfkndlJW3vH0CXCRjX4jsSAk1xeEZqBZ4XsQJPhpctsxiG_ZcRtQCHSg3797bAOshtkyfC8u98KG8aJNA7dhtZMxzml6rRJv0WRV5eKqEta7xEE7HOtI-tQ/s1600/birthday.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Clockwise from top-left:<a href="http://scottclarkphoto.com/" target="_blank"> Scott Clark Photography</a> via<a href="http://www.100layercake.com/blog/2012/05/04/first-birthday-taco-party/" target="_blank"> 100 Layer Cake</a>, <a href="http://morgantrinker.com/" target="_blank">Morgan Trinker</a> via <a href="http://www.100layercake.com/blog/2012/06/14/colorful-baton-rouge-wedding-erin-jonathan/" target="_blank">100 Layer Cake</a>, <a href="http://www.heidiryder.com/" target="_blank">Heidi Ryder</a> via <a href="http://greenweddingshoes.com/an-art-museum-wedding-veronica-jessie/" target="_blank">Green Wedding Shoes</a>, <a href="http://ohhappyday.com/2010/08/flag-sculptures/" target="_blank">Oh Happy Day</a>, <a href="http://www.acmepartybox.com/products/glass-drinking-jars-box-of-12" target="_blank">ACME Party Box Company</a>, <a href="http://www.bhg.com/christmas/indoor-decorating/pink-christmas/#page=16" target="_blank">Better Homes and Gardens</a>.</td></tr>
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<i><b>This year, I am grateful for:</b></i> My crazy, quirky, loving family, my new future brother-in-law (more on that later!), wonderful friends who have been through it all with me, wonderful friends who haven't been through it all with me but will go through it all with me, new opportunities, new people, new confidence, a higher tolerance, learning lessons the hard way and growing more courageous.<br />
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<i><b>This year, I hope for: </b></i>Bravery to take a leap of faith, authenticity and intentionality in all of my decisions, a stronger sense of myself, a badass theme song, good food and good company, overflowing amounts of love and a full, happy heart.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-89998624175089658672012-07-27T06:00:00.000-04:002012-07-27T06:00:18.037-04:00blog neglectThings have been a little crazy, lately. While I managed to sneak in a three-day weekend to go to the beach with my family, most days have been full of work. The good kind, though. I'll be back soon with many life updates! In the meantime, here are a few things that have caught my attention + a pretty photo from the <a href="http://blog.fossil.com/2012/07/photo-contest/" target="_blank">Fossil blog</a> that describes just how I feel about life.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUm7m3QJ3Ew_HM4SiidBME2lAIDYn-ywLoLuav1hZ_IKNMxaze_mpa45C-zMixivmYUE0qwzy9yp9lmQxGzvdjmUsTLvcIMBGhpyg30tNlD2vvtUy8VFAg0s0fkx63pMHi1j5vyZVgqGM/s1600/Fossil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUm7m3QJ3Ew_HM4SiidBME2lAIDYn-ywLoLuav1hZ_IKNMxaze_mpa45C-zMixivmYUE0qwzy9yp9lmQxGzvdjmUsTLvcIMBGhpyg30tNlD2vvtUy8VFAg0s0fkx63pMHi1j5vyZVgqGM/s1600/Fossil.jpg" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li>It's my not-so-secret dream to design wine labels for a living. I'm loving these <a href="http://lovelypackage.com/pink-glasses/" target="_blank">fun bottles</a> and this gorgeous <a href="http://lovelypackage.com/porseleinberg/" target="_blank">blind letterpress label</a>. </li>
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<li>I've been thinking a lot about my new branding lately. I think I must invest in some of this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/96958824/bright-orange-patch-collage-washi-tape?ga_search_query=orange" target="_blank">collage washi tape </a>for sending thank you notes and client pieces. </li>
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<li>China patterns have been on my mind lately. I am obsessed with <a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/wedgwood-dinnerware-butterfly-bloom-collection?ID=634849&CategoryID=53630#" target="_blank">this collection</a>. </li>
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<li>I just bought some yellow-green crops from Gap (similar to <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=57240&vid=1&pid=331528&scid=331528062" target="_blank">these</a>) that I plan on wearing<i> all the time.</i></li>
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</div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-67172734914915348232012-07-16T06:00:00.000-04:002012-07-16T06:00:15.158-04:00puppy loveI've been known to squeal over a cute puppy. (Warning to dog owners out there: I might steal your pup if you're not watching.) While I'm ready for a dog of my own right now, I can't help but collect inspiration for my future bud's accessories. Adorable bow tie collar? Without a doubt. Colorful leash? Done.<br />
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I'm all over <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SillyBuddy?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Silly Buddy's shop</a> and their sweet products. I might have to spoil the <a href="http://oliver-the-pug.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">nephew-dog</a> with these things. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkKx5JUbINBpv2xIk0f8wIZ54NQ53KE9qK_Fr8eeliRLw4j60ITTT6crchSSd9bJDG1As65fiOlcZydDay1Jur6hxmFd5GDLbKZ4tmVAQFllS2ydURkYFDQnB-3GTXsaDDSMkjas3GSDY/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-silly-buddy-pet-collars-and-leashes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkKx5JUbINBpv2xIk0f8wIZ54NQ53KE9qK_Fr8eeliRLw4j60ITTT6crchSSd9bJDG1As65fiOlcZydDay1Jur6hxmFd5GDLbKZ4tmVAQFllS2ydURkYFDQnB-3GTXsaDDSMkjas3GSDY/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-silly-buddy-pet-collars-and-leashes.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SillyBuddy?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Some of Silly Buddy's awesome doggie products</a></td></tr>
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<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-38656036138813092632012-07-12T06:00:00.000-04:002012-07-12T06:00:01.756-04:00pillow-makingWhen I moved into my apartment, I envisioned my living room looking more like my inspiration board from <a href="http://poppyandmandarin.blogspot.com/2012/04/where-we-live.html" target="_blank">this post</a> -- bright, with fun colors and patterns.<br />
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Instead, it ended up looking red, white and blue. It was the result of miscellaneous furniture and decor coming together (a red side table, a mostly red painting, and navy blue velvet pillows). I knew this was an easy fix with a little rearranging and some craft time. The first step? Getting rid of those unfitting blue pillows.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZRUv0PDbuMLjUFUE86ZMEpzjQL83ZMXsPVw8pnTXYV0j7_5k8eyhhki7NnfW42henHl19eGIpQqZr12Jg7XutDVThOtoyvyjpz6os1e8EvUX9OXEh4V8TYe3gL1aZL173_1A9vP_j8Ko/s1600/poppy+and+mandarin+pillow+cases.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZRUv0PDbuMLjUFUE86ZMEpzjQL83ZMXsPVw8pnTXYV0j7_5k8eyhhki7NnfW42henHl19eGIpQqZr12Jg7XutDVThOtoyvyjpz6os1e8EvUX9OXEh4V8TYe3gL1aZL173_1A9vP_j8Ko/s1600/poppy+and+mandarin+pillow+cases.jpg" /></a></div>
I had some yellow chevron fabric left over from a chair upholstery project and the pink twill fabric used to be curtains! They already brighten up my living room and have inspired a few more changes to come.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-85251628622492029612012-07-10T06:00:00.000-04:002012-07-10T06:00:03.263-04:00Fourth of July recapMid-week holidays are kind of a tease, but they're such a great excuse for a day trip. The Fourth of July is my favorite holiday, so I was happy when this year's came around and my beau proposed a fun plan.<br />
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We got up (relatively) early on Wednesday and packed up the Jeep with sun screen, snacks, a picnic and beach towels and headed to the South Outer Banks. <br />
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We set up a picnic of grapes, baguette, brie, ham, pistachios and some bottles of vanilla porter (with plenty of water on the side), then spent the next few hours taking in the sun and playing in the waves.<br />
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On the way home, we picked up some throwback road trip snacks from 7-11. Pina colada Slurpees and Gummi Blue Sharks were totally beach appropriate. <br />
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Once we were back in Raleigh, we were exhausted. Excusing ourselves from the fireworks, we picked up a quick dinner and some dessert for a night in with the movie Independence Day.<br />
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Unfortunately, we both fell asleep in the middle of the movie.<br />
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Still, I'd call it a great holiday. Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-17136006742541650372012-07-09T06:00:00.000-04:002012-07-09T09:02:23.629-04:00summer in actionI've been MIA lately, but that's because my friends and I have been enjoying our summers to the fullest. The beginning of July was like a dream.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyBr54apv4ROyHeNS2hgPHKSra1oGg0BrllaRrmXC2eRmbPSTU2laPgoROL1qsFvv8BgtiQ1zVA4Z-ncA5FNTwcvNGRXRYnkdPizy-vlnspLL8gN8aBvZmo6Yq1Hqlu-8sUPLm-iMMyOE/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-roadtrip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyBr54apv4ROyHeNS2hgPHKSra1oGg0BrllaRrmXC2eRmbPSTU2laPgoROL1qsFvv8BgtiQ1zVA4Z-ncA5FNTwcvNGRXRYnkdPizy-vlnspLL8gN8aBvZmo6Yq1Hqlu-8sUPLm-iMMyOE/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-roadtrip.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption">Yup! That's Philip from <a href="http://hisplushers.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">His + Hers</a> on the right.</td></tr>
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We took off to Deltaville for the weekend (making an obligatory road-trip stop along the way at Bojangles) and spent most of Saturday and Sunday pool-side. Two of my friends ran a 5K Saturday morning, but I decided to sleep in. Waking up and coming downstairs to this view is something I could get used to:<br />
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Storms basically attacked all of Virginia while we were there, but luckily we only saw raindrops at night. We got to watch the lightning and thunder from the storm roll in down the river -- it was amazing to see the sky light up with each bolt of lightning. <br />
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One of my favorite parts of this tiny town is that fresh produce and seafood is so easy to come by. We stopped by the seafood market and local produce stand to pick up some crab cakes and veggies for dinner. Everything looked so fresh and delicious. <br />
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In between swimming, going out on the Wave Runner, taking naps in the hammock and eating delicious food, I managed to pick up a giant tan and develop a new love for a dog named Drummer. I'd call it a successful weekend.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-69507124291932529602012-06-29T06:00:00.000-04:002012-06-29T06:00:08.294-04:00Deltaville-boundThank goodness for Fridays, right? I don't know about you guys, but I'm pumped about this weekend. My friends and I are going to Deltaville, Virginia. Two of them are running a 5K Saturday morning, but after the race we'll be engaging in full-on summertime activities like kayaking, fishing, tanning poolside, swinging in hammocks and making crab cakes.<br />
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I'm packing light and making sure my outfits are appropriate for the heat and for the water. Lately, this tank and skirt combo has been my go-to outfit when I want to feel cute without the effort (everyone needs a couple of those oufits!) and I just scored the bikini on sale at <a href="http://www.ae.com/aerie/index.jsp" target="_blank">Aerie</a>. Cute sandals, floral-framed aviators and a fish-adorned necklace complete the look without being fussy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKTqaIUCNb3uHqCt2X_nZB-g6NdvyL9Im62Lt3C2NMJR0dS4vZq2rj4-rybKdQ-kV2I2qub7jmxLS1-gRJrdWbGG71gKysgawmhNupfBOXNke_vO7Vxobv6RqkhUAbzkB9Ndh8NA0vso/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-weekend-by-the-delta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKTqaIUCNb3uHqCt2X_nZB-g6NdvyL9Im62Lt3C2NMJR0dS4vZq2rj4-rybKdQ-kV2I2qub7jmxLS1-gRJrdWbGG71gKysgawmhNupfBOXNke_vO7Vxobv6RqkhUAbzkB9Ndh8NA0vso/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-weekend-by-the-delta.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-supply-co-juniors-long-and-lean-tank-assorted-colors/-/A-12133519" target="_blank">Long and Lean Tank Top</a> // <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-womens-elastic-waist-solid-skirt-assorted-colors/-/A-14043063#?lnk=sc_qi_detaillink" target="_blank">Hot Lips Skirt</a> // <a href="http://www.ae.com/aerie/browse/product.jsp?productId=0752_5934_800&catId=cat5550009&bundleCatId=cat5570005" target="_blank">Floral Bikini</a> // <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=55151&vid=1&pid=115456&scid=115456022" target="_blank">Cuffed Sandals</a> // <a href="http://www.aldoshoes.com/us/accessories/womens/sunglasses/87801731-argie/59" target="_blank">Aviators</a> // <a href="http://www.swellcaroline.com/jewelry/necklace/vero-beach-long-large-fish.html" target="_blank">Fish Necklace</a>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-75028625247226435542012-06-27T06:00:00.000-04:002012-06-27T06:00:11.879-04:00Plum Pretty Sugar interiorsI don't know if y'all are familiar with <a href="http://store.plumprettysugar.com/" target="_blank">Plum Pretty Sugar</a>. I always associate them with weddings since their robes make lovely bridesmaids gifts that can be worn the morning of the wedding.<br />
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I was on their site last week, though, looking through their new <a href="http://store.plumprettysugar.com/castelbel/" target="_blank">Castelbel & Trumpet </a>collection, when I saw a category called <a href="http://store.plumprettysugar.com/pages/interiors.html" target="_blank">"Interiors."</a> It's full of beautiful bedding and curtains made from the same feminine patterns as their robes. Can you imagine climbing into a bed made of this amazing fabric?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5fWHsoaXFNNKkZixqKMZcdYFVfzuWhyphenhypheneumgTCiHkdd7HvxARuDJnPH8zdM-Q94RFAguAAsdG2dBW8XmJDUBuFjOLnUnGO6455f6_lMZGiu0G-5h6TZKMJhrMAk4bfp6WKWdg_fcb7m0/s1600/Poppy-and-Mandarin-Plum-Pretty-Sugar-Bedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5fWHsoaXFNNKkZixqKMZcdYFVfzuWhyphenhypheneumgTCiHkdd7HvxARuDJnPH8zdM-Q94RFAguAAsdG2dBW8XmJDUBuFjOLnUnGO6455f6_lMZGiu0G-5h6TZKMJhrMAk4bfp6WKWdg_fcb7m0/s1600/Poppy-and-Mandarin-Plum-Pretty-Sugar-Bedding.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://store.plumprettysugar.com/products/Pillow-Shams.-Standard-Size.-Various-Prints..html" target="_blank">Flora Pillow Shams</a></td></tr>
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The varied sizes of the patterns and coordinating colors make mixing and matching within the collection easy and that's half of why I love them so much. The other half is because the fabric is<i> gorgeous</i>. I want a dozen of those pillows on my bed, stat.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDlOGShdoiCV1sHlVo_BC2qo9HnfOVWi0N9Re4xVSgeboF-o6liTmYA4GWRRuvIsLDHHhFT3FZtViS9erlps3YJkyuzAycjvpTQhY6PB1_9eUO1l-BwYi7tlgb_UbnjiZPJL3ZCLL4CQ/s1600/Poppy-and-Mandarin-Plum-Pretty-Sugar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDlOGShdoiCV1sHlVo_BC2qo9HnfOVWi0N9Re4xVSgeboF-o6liTmYA4GWRRuvIsLDHHhFT3FZtViS9erlps3YJkyuzAycjvpTQhY6PB1_9eUO1l-BwYi7tlgb_UbnjiZPJL3ZCLL4CQ/s1600/Poppy-and-Mandarin-Plum-Pretty-Sugar.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://store.plumprettysugar.com/categories/bedding/" target="_blank">bedding</a> and <a href="http://store.plumprettysugar.com/categories/curtains/" target="_blank">curtains</a></td></tr>
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<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-73480122052284913612012-06-25T06:00:00.000-04:002012-06-25T06:00:00.355-04:00we love citrusI just came across <a href="http://www.welovecitrusshop.com/" target="_blank">We Love Citrus</a> last week and fell in love with their simple but colorful packaging and crafting supplies. (And their name is <a href="http://www.welovecitrusshop.com/" target="_blank">We Love Citrus</a>, so that's a big plus.)<br />
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I LOVE these fabric ribbons and the organic frayed edges.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsksN3INOmmOh0PjyG8kh6iF3YyEcybBdkzfa4Psd0cn4KpDAKBAH3TlqrzGORFHAd8fPj3pB1aOJ9Z-WN0wA6LOfWTYb6bullZHBIHxrsq5sR7r63p001SjuPlxUnUepn_szeGTOCj70/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin---we-love-citrus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsksN3INOmmOh0PjyG8kh6iF3YyEcybBdkzfa4Psd0cn4KpDAKBAH3TlqrzGORFHAd8fPj3pB1aOJ9Z-WN0wA6LOfWTYb6bullZHBIHxrsq5sR7r63p001SjuPlxUnUepn_szeGTOCj70/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin---we-love-citrus.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://www.welovecitrusshop.com/product/new-orange-fabric-ribbon" target="_blank">Orange fabric ribbon</a> and <a href="http://www.welovecitrusshop.com/product/pink-flowers-fabric-ribbon" target="_blank">pink flowers fabric ribbon</a></td></tr>
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Other adorable items include heart-in-a-jar muslin bags, neon twine (wrapped around wooden spools, no less) and fabric-covered magnetic clothespins.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRpO08_77YgNuYr-oKUl0ejgxUhenaqniAuirwJUPGnizNyzpGTTQMDZCRFB4toX3JVdQrG6Ou9tN_WFx52N5Xw_O8RF_lpkmVedIKHtbXXp7PV_CwoMjNNwioqFOdCbpNVinsKe7hhs/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-we-love-citrus-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRpO08_77YgNuYr-oKUl0ejgxUhenaqniAuirwJUPGnizNyzpGTTQMDZCRFB4toX3JVdQrG6Ou9tN_WFx52N5Xw_O8RF_lpkmVedIKHtbXXp7PV_CwoMjNNwioqFOdCbpNVinsKe7hhs/s1600/poppy-and-mandarin-we-love-citrus-2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://www.welovecitrusshop.com/product/heart-cloth-bags" target="_blank">Heart bags</a>, <a href="http://www.welovecitrusshop.com/product/hot-pink-twine" target="_blank">hot pink twine</a>, <a href="http://www.welovecitrusshop.com/product/flower-magnetic-clothespins" target="_blank">magnetic clothespins</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The BEST part, though? You can subscribe to get a <a href="http://www.welovecitrusshop.com/product/monthly-craft-package" target="_blank">monthly craft package</a> sent to you! Every month, a fun package full of supplies and instructions for a surprise craft project will arrive at your door! That's the best thing ever, if you ask me.<br />
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<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-9595641889763455832012-06-22T06:00:00.000-04:002012-06-22T06:00:16.111-04:00colorful kitchen accessoriesIt's hard to combine my love for bright neon colors with my love for the delicate and romantic. Somehow, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/WindandWillowHome?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Wind & Willow</a> does that. I'm all over it.<br />
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Their <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/WindandWillowHome?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">"Dipped" collection</a> takes wooden kitchen items and (you guessed it) dips them in fun colors. I can't get enough of the combination of punchy and organic. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYN6cjSynxjyXWp21LwfW_J08gwdMqKM1ShKJE6EmGd7Hm8K5i40Uo7iSaDHKZV_g3LtT8CzoAXX6hR2ubtBuWoHPlRsqGpckJ8REFdfkacZvXFU9-Mtecf311XVa82AYquV8E3WZDwOw/s1600/wind-and-willow-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYN6cjSynxjyXWp21LwfW_J08gwdMqKM1ShKJE6EmGd7Hm8K5i40Uo7iSaDHKZV_g3LtT8CzoAXX6hR2ubtBuWoHPlRsqGpckJ8REFdfkacZvXFU9-Mtecf311XVa82AYquV8E3WZDwOw/s1600/wind-and-willow-2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/100868400/wooden-salad-bowl-set-of-5-neon-pink" target="_blank">Salad Bowl Set</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/101970483/wooden-mini-bowl-set-of-two-neon-modern" target="_blank">Mini Bowls</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The coolest part of these products is that the painted portions are actually a rubbery plastic, making them nonslip! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjig2te5pCs8ClIBXIeBducTAy6tXg0uXZME1mEYCKpkzu_2MCkFagjPS-MS2E5kS8C3lh_1xoIJq7tGdTMNTIo6dtBTfAszdrY7vGwG_w42QJ4HHga9Zf7M2HuBPCE9ydti_ssVE4Ad_E/s1600/wind-and-willow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjig2te5pCs8ClIBXIeBducTAy6tXg0uXZME1mEYCKpkzu_2MCkFagjPS-MS2E5kS8C3lh_1xoIJq7tGdTMNTIo6dtBTfAszdrY7vGwG_w42QJ4HHga9Zf7M2HuBPCE9ydti_ssVE4Ad_E/s1600/wind-and-willow.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/101840229/wooden-spoons-set-of-4-rainbow-kitchen" target="_blank">Wooden Spoons</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/97018824/wooden-candle-cups-soft-peach-romantic" target="_blank">Candle Cups</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Their prices are a bit high, but that's what you get for the handmade + cool factor, I suppose.<br />
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P.S. Who else is loving those candle holders? The soft pink + gold rim kill me!Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-71034372487636233072012-06-20T06:00:00.000-04:002012-06-20T06:00:09.908-04:00serious cravingsI have cravings like a pregnant woman sometimes. Not in a "pickles and ice cream" sort of way, but in a "I GOTTA HAVE IT" kind of way. In the same vein, when I find a food that satisfies me, I'll eat it for every meal for weeks until I get tired of it.<br />
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Lately, I haven't been able to stop thinking about banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich with mayonnaise, pate, cured meats, pickled veggies and cilantro inside a crumbly light French baguette (of course, with the Vietnamese spin on it: some rice flour). So good.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCOwZKeuhZCZwJ3xdT83VxlSlLjpmRLGH-aUTk_ZQvc3roJGov9JMYN30hdgpy4baWb-eQY5BBruxQdA0IQfTMuLQzGioxO7VIYsY88WwEPmniys9holIUGkIsEWOPd_6bRVlWKn4AtY/s1600/oh-joy---banh-mi-and-shrimp-chips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCOwZKeuhZCZwJ3xdT83VxlSlLjpmRLGH-aUTk_ZQvc3roJGov9JMYN30hdgpy4baWb-eQY5BBruxQdA0IQfTMuLQzGioxO7VIYsY88WwEPmniys9holIUGkIsEWOPd_6bRVlWKn4AtY/s1600/oh-joy---banh-mi-and-shrimp-chips.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="right"><td class="tr-caption"><a href="http://ohjoy.blogs.com/my_weblog/2010/04/casual-vietnamese-in-silverlake.html" target="_blank">Banh mi and shrimp chips by Joy Cho via Oh Joy!</a></td></tr>
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Some fried shrimp chips on the side sound delightful, like in the<a href="http://ohjoy.blogs.com/my_weblog/2010/04/casual-vietnamese-in-silverlake.html" target="_blank"> image above from Joy Cho of Oh Joy!</a> (Is anyone else SUPER jealous of the ridiculously good food she eats? I need to move to California.)<br />
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I've been told that <a href="http://jujuberestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Jujube</a> in Chapel Hill and <a href="http://bukuraleigh.com/" target="_blank">Buku</a> in Raleigh have banh mi on their lunch menus, but I honestly find it ridiculous that they charge $8 to $10 dollars for Vietnamese street food. A real Vietnamese restaurant would sell it to you for $3. I'll have to do some exploring since those are typically harder to find and the few that I've heard of have since closed down (a trend? Let's not think about it).<br />
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<b>Raleigh friends, if you know where to find banh mi nearby, help a girl out.</b>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-19607824363441150452012-06-19T06:00:00.000-04:002012-06-19T06:00:15.664-04:00from my desk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Working on a couple of new projects using this yummy color palette. Hopefully I can share them with you guys soon :)Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-65089848136969642972012-06-18T06:00:00.000-04:002012-06-18T06:00:02.774-04:00Father's Day from the airI went home last week to celebrate Father's Day early. (My pops is such a social butterfly he already had plans for this weekend!) It turns out that this also coincided with my dad's workplace outing to <a href="http://www.piedmontskydiving.com/joomla/" target="_blank">Piedmont Skydiving</a>. "Do you want to go?" he asked.<br />
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...YES.<br />
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So we signed our forms (the "no, I won't sue you if I die" kind) and headed out to the Rowan County Airport.<br />
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We suited up.<br />
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Watched the group before us land.<br />
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Crawled into the teeny airplane.<br />
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Flew for about 20 minutes to climb to 10,000 feet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnvdpJ8Pypbn7C8b4BSI3OagROop9aswBeBcEFXOAOmIeHVexvW1ua7aew2H8zaCylNtgI8geKExQ3sIO310dXsPahUkgRXyJi-MKPq9R1-cDnNp45kpV0BoI-qYb18W3j8pb5E_THPo/s1600/skydiving3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnvdpJ8Pypbn7C8b4BSI3OagROop9aswBeBcEFXOAOmIeHVexvW1ua7aew2H8zaCylNtgI8geKExQ3sIO310dXsPahUkgRXyJi-MKPq9R1-cDnNp45kpV0BoI-qYb18W3j8pb5E_THPo/s1600/skydiving3.jpg" /></a></div>
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And then we jumped. That's my dad below, before he landed.<br />
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And then said, "holy crap, I just did that!"<br />
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And then we celebrated with hushpuppies and burgers later.<br />
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If any of you are considering going skydiving...DO IT. It was so amazing. Free-falling is so exhilarating and once your parachute opens, you've got time to take in the view around you. There's nothing like it. <br />
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Needless to say, I'm going again. Anyone want to join me?<br />
<br />Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800418969199830222noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3190445644710061552.post-80175276119023506252012-06-06T06:00:00.000-04:002012-06-06T06:00:13.379-04:00ginghamThere's something about warmer weather that makes me love gingham. Maybe it's because the pattern reminds me of picnic and cookouts. Or maybe it's because I'm dying for a lightweight gingham shirt to wear this summer.<br />
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I came across these adorable <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71719036/twist-ties-pretty-colorful-gingham?ga_search_query=gingham" target="_blank">gingham twist ties</a> from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PrettyTape?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Pretty Tape on Etsy</a> while I was searching for washi tape last week. Aren't they perfect?? For $2.50 for a set of 30, there's really no reason <i>not</i> to buy them.<br />
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And then of course, there's actual gingham washi tape! You might see these on my desk next week.<br />
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