Isn't That Fascinating

I hate that I have said that...

2012-01-25T12:25:00.000-08:00

A beautiful reminder. Because ignorance is not an excuse.

Me & You

2012-01-10T09:43:00.000-08:00

Cute and just in time for V Day

From Etsy

Oh My Dear Lord

2012-01-06T15:49:00.000-08:00

Dear Universe,

Is it possible that a couple be TOO goodlooking?!

(I leveraged a yahoo story for this photo)

Let me know.
Thanks,
Kate

Marshmallows!

2012-01-03T19:06:00.000-08:00

I made marshmallows for the holidays. I used this gingerbread marshmallows recipe and I didn’t have a candy thermometer so I was admittedly a little nervous, but they turned out super good and given a use for them would totally make them again.

(they are good, really)

(chocolate bark and shortbread dipped in chocolate and sprinkles rounded out the box)

In related news I got a ice cream maker for Christmas so life if about to get super tastier.

A Year In Cities: 2011

2012-01-03T18:55:00.000-08:00

A whole lot of San Andreas, CA
Las Vegas, NV
Wailea, HI (Maui)
Boulder, CO

Seriously. Thats it.

All I Want for Christmas

2011-11-21T14:22:00.000-08:00

(alls I want)

I have been a very very very good girl...
Ice cream maker
Alarm clock or maybe just this nifty dock in silver
Speaking of iPhone, would love a fun case like this one from kate spade or a something with a bow or in my fav color
A single Bookend
or some fun patterned masking tapes
For the tree

There is also a SUPER gift guide called Gifted Magazine

If you are going to San Francisco

2011-11-17T12:49:00.000-08:00

Dear San Francisco music lovers,

You know we are so lucky! We get 100s of AMAZING shows each year to choose from and we get usually get there on a bus to allow for max drinks and fun. Lately I have been feeling like maybe some of us have been taking so liberties that we shouldnot. So... for the good of all could you please:
Not take effing photos every 10 seconds... we all know your iPhone has HD vidieo, but rather than capture that you were here, just BE HERE! Watch the show and enjoy the music feeding your brain.
Girls... in the bathroom, dont be so gross.
If you want to move up in the crowd, try to maybe end up in a place where the person directly behind you is not 6 inches shorter than you.
Dont hug me. I love this song to. Lets love it without grabbing strangers.
Move. Like... when you like a song you can dance. I swear, last show I was at someone got mad at me because my "head kept moving" and they wanted me to stay still so I wouldnt block their camera. Sheesh.

(Yes)

(Oh HELL no)

Thanks so much,
Kate, fellow live music lover

Zombiefied!

2011-11-07T09:58:00.000-08:00

For 26 years I have been cutie things for Halloween...

But no more. I have been wanting to do a zombie thing, and lucky me, I have a bff that is a theatrical makeup artist( seriously, they pay her to do this, best.job.ever.)!

(Jake was a good sport and let me put blood on his head)

(then he let me pretend to eat it)


(then we went to a bar and acted dead, but with beer)

So much fun! Thanks Sarah!

Currently Working On...

2011-09-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

Learning how to braid my hair.

I have just spent about 90 minutes watching videos on youtube learning how. Interesting my fav videos are always done by girls that are like 15... not even sure what that means about me, but I do learn some cute things!

And in any case, am glad to follow this method since I need a bang trim but have been working like 60 hours a week and can never fit in a trim when the salon is open.

I am off to try this out. Maybe a new weekend hairstyle?

Fan Letter: Tim Lincecum

2011-09-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

I wanted to send a fan letter.
But who?
Right... Ok. This guy:

google image search...

I decided on Timmy for a few reasons:
1. His number is 55 and you know I like that
2. He likes Hall and Oates...
3. Wanted to send a "congrats" on last years world series, since it is not in the cards this year
4. He just looks like a cool guy and frankely there are not that many profession baseball players I think that about (and there is that one time Dub and I met a few in the Marina, but that is a story for another day)
5. Because I am San Franciscan and therefor obligated to <3 each and every Giant... doesn't mean I can't love one just a little more.

you will never know what it says

Iced

2011-09-15T13:01:00.000-07:00

I made cold brew coffee. First I looked for a some inspiration on Tastespotting:

Then I basically did this same thing as faux Martha with using a mason jar, because everything I do in the kitchen involves a mason jar - total side note: mom and I are now splitting cases when we find a good size but don't need a whole case, because you know, we don't can.

I didn't take photos.

I also was not crazy about it.

Though I would try it again.

Maybe after marshmallows.

A Key Question:

2011-09-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

When I review a brunch place that I like on yelp I click "not good for kids" even if maybe it would be because I don't like my bottomless mimosas with a side of crying baby...

Does this mean I am a jerk?

Sleepy Head

2011-09-11T12:47:00.000-07:00

(we hear it)

Here are some tips that I have been using to get my @$$ out of bed on time:
1. Make coffee ahead. Truth be told, M usually does this, but it is helpful.
2. While still on the hunt for a new alarm clock, I have been sleeping on the opposite side from mine which means that B has to hit snooze if I want to.
3. Set your mind. I tell myself ahead of time what time I am going to get up. Then I set my alarm to the same time. No trickery needed, just get up when I said I would.
4. Look forward to something. Maybe its the coffee. Maybe a day closer to the weekend. Maybe the sooner you get up and have that long meeting it will be over. Whatever it is, at lead you have a reason to bound out of bed rather than "ug... work again".
5. Go to sleep. If, like me, you wake in the middle of the night then try some sleep yoga (thanks mom!) or counting to five over and over.

Summer Things

2011-06-17T09:46:00.000-07:00

we heart it

Summer things I love:
New sandals. Dinner with the boys. Going to Union Inn for lunch. Walking in the city on a sunny day. Fresh fruit. New friends meeting old friends. Banana bread. Iced tea. Beach. Long weekends. Planning for new adventures. Date night. BBQs and picnics. Waking up to the sun on my face. Movie night in Dolores Park. Driving in the twilight. Swimming in a river with cold cold cold water when it is hot hot hot outside. Long days. Late nights.

New Bag?

2011-05-12T09:32:00.000-07:00

I am thinking about buying this from Macy's. It might be too grownup for me. What do you think?


as I said, its from macys

Beauty Sleep

2011-05-05T16:39:00.000-07:00

So totally sure that I would sleep better at night this summer if I was sleeping on these:

via

And from LLBean?! Really!

99 Problems

2011-05-03T17:12:00.000-07:00

Everyone has problems. Everyone sometimes thinks that their particular problems are bigger or more important than others. I think we all have days where we struggle to find the patience to listen and look and learn about other people and what is going on with them. Some days I fear that I am going to lash out and tell them that a flat tire, or a fight with a boyfriend, or a late term paper is not a "real" problem. That I have real problems, and they just "don't know what that feels like."

On those days, I try to focus on compassion and on the truth that there is no problem bigger and better and more important than the one in your life. Or her life. Or their life.

this is not a competition.
And I am not winning.

And now, some Jay Z with his 99 Problems:

Say it in llama

2011-05-02T16:08:00.000-07:00

this llama font is too fun!

This is my life...

2011-04-26T17:16:00.000-07:00

via we heart it

I went to Vegas for 2.5 days.
I went to a wedding. I cried becasue she was beautiful and he was so happy.
I lost $400 playing penny slots and roulette.
I got really drunk and went to a cowboy bar.
Yes, that says penny slots up there. Am I NEVER gonna learn?!
I came home.
I ate a burrito and went to bed.
I woke up feeling Vegas hungover - my life is seriously lacking in daily glam.
I found $80 in my bag - bringing my total to negative $320.
My car got a flat on Monday morning while it was raining.
For about ten seconds I thought about putting on my spare.
I called up roadside help and they sent a guy and he put on my spare.
I ate a bagel and emailed my boss while I waited.
Then the tow guy found my iPod which I thought I lost but it was really just under my spare tire in the trunk.

Sum and divide by fourteen the average of my life is pretty good. Odd, I guess, but good.

Quote

2011-04-20T16:08:00.000-07:00

The other day I heard someone say:
"you don't reach your goals by accident"

and I know they are right.

I almost forget to tell...

2011-04-13T12:29:00.000-07:00

That I got this:

oh so pretty!

And Oh my god, it is a dream machine. Even better than I thought it would be back when I only dreamed of it. So pretty and practical and it just makes my heart flutter every time I turn it on and there is a soft "wherrrrrr" sound... So far I have mad a ginger cake, a cheesecake, and a pound cake. I have yet to make: pizza dough or soft pretzels.

I bring much sweets to work = I am very popular :)

Matchbook and a Checklist

2011-04-08T09:23:00.000-07:00

Do you read Matchbook?

I am not usually one for online mags, but I actually really like this one.

Also, I am working on their list of 50 classic items for my closet.

Because I think I might want to be a Matchbook Girl.

Pretty Dress!

2011-04-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

Remember when I said I had found the cutest DIY dress ever?

I *might* have been wrong... because now I found this:

(image via)

Actually there is just about 10,000,000,0000 awesome makeovers and make-new's on this blog. Grosgrain. I am obsessed and am starting to think I can sew (which I kinda can (thanks to a class my mom made me take one summer to keep me out of trouble, but thats a story for another day), but I don't.

Lets All Get Together (a.k.a. Hippie Kate Wants To Recruit You)

2011-04-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

image via we heart it

Thinking about virtualization today. Mostly about a virtual hug and what that might be like. Here is what I am thinking: lets all do something nice today. Everyone just do somehting, little something, big something. Whatever. Just be a little kind.

Some ideas: Call someone you haven't talked to in a while and tell them they make your world better. Tell you bff she is pretty. Complement a stranger. Offer to watch your sisters kids for a few hours. Tell a coworker he is doing a really great job. Let someone merge in-front of you. Smile all day long at everyone.

If everyone does a little we can all do a lot and that is like virtually hugging the world.

Dear John... er... Mark

2011-03-30T16:17:00.000-07:00

ATTN: Mark Bittman
Dear How To Cook Everything,

My mom gave you to me a while ago, and at first I loved your style of "use whatever you have" in your recipes and I even read it like a novel, but then you started to fail on me. First it was the mediocre shortbread cookies that I made last Christmas, then I tried some of your dressings for salad and found them to be unfavorable, and then there was the meatloaf, honestly your meatloaf was a joke.

Mark, I finally bought a KitchenAid and I just can't allow you to mess up anything I make in this beaut. I am sorry but I am going to buy the whole shebang "Joy of." I still read the blog on NY Times, I might see you at Savers now and then, I might even flip your pages and in a moment of weakness wonder if I made a mistake, but we can no longer cook together.

I am sorry, but I am movin' on,
Kate

Hisotry is Hardcore

2011-03-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

Two things you should know: 1. I super love 50 Cent. 2. This is really funny:

image via badass digest

Rumor has it that it is made by a kid for a project, this is the kind of thing I wish I did when I was in school.

Bloody Marython

2011-03-28T15:04:00.000-07:00

image from mission mission

Though I am not such a fan of the bloody mary, I am impressed with the level of analysis that went into finding the best in the Mish.

Mission Mission reports:
"We started at noon at the 500 Club and proceeded to also stop at Elixir, Zeitgeist, and Bender’s, drinking one bloody mary at each bar. Needless to say, things got a little sloppy towards the end, but we made sure to take copious notes in case we didn’t quite remember everything!"

Read the results.

That salad bar idea at Elixir is maybe enough to get me to give this drink just one more try.

Buttons

2011-03-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

I still really, really, really, really, really want a button maker. But even with all the really(s) I can't justify $200 on one. What I can do is I can think of at least ten ideas for buttons. Some inspiration:

image via once wed

image via iDIY

image via thisisnext

Slow

2011-03-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday loves, here is a chipmunk to help kick off your weekend:

A Very Well Dressed San Franciscan

2011-03-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

They do exist... are just hard to find. This girl is so super well dressed... so rare to find someone in heels all the time in SF! Go check out her blog.

image via alantic-pacific

Oh My Mouse

2011-03-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

I am thinking of spending $230 on mouse shoes. Yep. Mouse shoes. Shoes that look like a mouse.

marc jacobs

Why?

Because they make me happier than anything else I have seen a weeks (other than this, which, by the way, is on its way to me right now!).

I have a shopping problem.

A shopping problem but no mouse shoes. And Dang if I don't want those shoes. I might as well order them and blame it on the shopping problem? You follow?

120 Things: at work

2011-03-17T18:30:00.000-07:00

I decided to get rid of 8 things from the office (all my own things, obv not belonging to the company):

Blank white binder: just don't need it, or the preso notes from a conference in 2006 that we inside until 10 minutes ago when I tossed them.
Cisco bottle opener: Gonna ask Jake if he wants it. Seems appropriate for a WI kid.
Key to nothing in my cube: Why do I still have it? Where does it go?
Sunflowers: Love them, never gonna grow them.
Boys suck coaster set: got it from my old boss, never really liked them.
Pen case: pen died like a year ago.
Cards: gift from co-workers trip to Vegas. What am I gonna play at work?
Magnifying glass: I don't work for a detective agency.

A Question

2011-03-16T16:57:00.000-07:00

(image from we heart it)

I am working on my 26th year list and giving more...

I am not really inclined to share much about it because I think that contributing time and dollars to charity is personal. But I am curious, is this something you want to read about? After writing about giving blood I got a few emails from ya'll asking about it and and since it is something I so strongly encourage I was excited to hear I may have influenced, ever so slightly, even one person to give blood. I feel like, now, more than ever we need to openly talk about issues that are important to us (the state of Japan, hunger, education, peace, war... whatever you believe in)

So, am I a jerk if I write about my volunteering, donations, and general giving back? Or is it interesting to see a girl like me explore what it takes to make a difference in the community?

A Pratical Tote

2011-03-15T13:30:00.000-07:00

A few months ago (is seven a few?), there was this post on Making It Lovely which had a yellow bad I loved. But it was sold out... and I was too busy to look harder.

(image)

But today I learned it came in gray. Yay for Gray! Check it out, there is all sorts of cute stuff over there.

A Perfect Combination

2011-03-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

Today I was looking for some inspiration for fresh tasty meals (featuring cabbage, since we have half a head and we getting another in our CSA box) so I searched around on Tastespotting.

Its a perfect combination of sites! Amazing looking food with recipes linked and a list of food I know I am going to get.

What is your perfect combination of websites to have open at the same time?

Meow

2011-03-14T11:23:00.000-07:00

This NY&Co skirt is H.O.T!

(image via NY&Co)

Lets all agree that every woman needs a perfect leopard skirt in her life...I will show you later this week how I wear racy skirts at work.

Missing Lionel Richie

2011-03-12T11:30:00.000-08:00

(image from a family missing several things)

Weekend in March

2011-03-11T10:35:00.000-08:00

(image via we heart it)

So... my weekend is going to be all: visiting mom and brother for the first time in TWO weeks (seems like a short time to you, but given that I went from seeing them every single day, to not at all, I am pretty stoked about it). Shopping dresses at the Go International resurgence at Target (you can read about it on What I Wore) - I am excited because it starts on Sunday and it so happens I have to drive though the valley on Sunday so I get to pass many huge suburban Targets in places where the girls have a VERY different style aesthetic than I do, SCORE!. I am also going to spend some time understanding who I souled be supporting for the Japan Earthquake (so sad! so scary!). Its about time I get crackin' on my 26th year list plan of giving more. Lastly, I am going to work on building an emergency preparedness kit, becasue although SF is not washing away today; I a. live in an earthquake zone and b. am stupid not to have one. We all should have one. Do you? Sunday I am going to make a yummy fresh dinner with sister and then back to work.

What is your weekend going to be like?

Nifty Nails

2011-03-10T10:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was distracted at work because my nails looks so ragged.

So I went all ghetto and tried out the new Sally Hanson nail thingies... and now I am distracted by how neat my nails look

I did it last night and after you get the hang of it they are super easy to apply, kind just like using stickers, and they seem to be holding up today. I'll let ya know later how long they last (something tells me that 10 days may be a bit of a stretch). I think they are best on short nails, since it is a little overwhelming but dang if they don't come in hounds-tooth, which is totally one of my favorite things - like remember the kate spade posts?

(Photos from my Palm Pre... which is a crapy phone with a pretty ok camera)

I'm gonna try to lace next, though I felt it was a bit racy for work. Maybe when I head to Vegas.

Peace out yo
(that was me being ghetto in a totally different, non-naily, way)

What I am Wearing: Spring 2011

2011-03-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

A sample of my wardrobe for spring time:

Look What I Found

2011-03-09T09:53:00.000-08:00

(image from seychellesfootwear blog)

Hey ladies, did you know my fav brand has a blog (apparently for like a year)?! Yeah, neither did I, but it looks super fun and a great way to find out whats current. Check it out!

I am wearing these at work today... feelin' hecka sassy!

(image from mr-shopping.net)

Ohh... just realized that my shoes match the object of my desire from yesterday.

Kitchen Color Trend?

2011-03-08T11:21:00.000-08:00

(image from amazon)

So... Apparently Turquoise was the color of 2010.

I am a bit late.

But I still want everything that matches this "Aqua Sky" mixer.

Saturday Song

2011-03-05T10:38:00.000-08:00

I made manfriend listen to this twice this morning. It makes me smile and is perfect for a weekend morning.

Happy Weekend!
xoxo,
Kate

120 things: first few

2011-02-28T15:59:00.000-08:00

Following my tradition of starting a new year of my life with some boring thing that makes you want to never read this blog again...

I am getting rid of ~~four~~ three things:

Pizza cutter: I was feeling sentimental about it because my mom gave it to me when I left for college, but then I was like "dude, Kate, it's a dull pizza cutter and you know she doesn't remember it." So off to Savers it went.
Heels: Currently sitting in my hallway waiting to see if mom wants them. They are low and very cute so mayyyybe?
Jessica Simpson weekender: Fail. After much talk with Mary I took it back. I was gonna sell it. Pro bag: cute, brown, good size for two nights. Cons: hard to dig things out of it, hard to store, rarely use it, heavy.
Ear-warmer: I got it for a buck fifty and I thought I would DIY something cute onto it. But I didn't. And when I get real honest I realize that I am not going to. Savers.

26th Year List

2011-02-20T12:00:00.000-08:00

(via we heart it)

At the beginning of Feb I came to the end of my 25th year. At that time I had completed 36% of my list. I think that is a decent showing since I had 35 things on my list and the last six months of my year were spent with my mom in the hospital. For my 26th year list I am going to shorten the list a bit, but still have included a few "biggies."

Here are the 20 things I want to do before my next Birthday:
Spend a day alone, once a month.
Go to Mexico.
Get boudoir photos taken.
Pay off half my student loans.
Learn to French braid my own hair. (Gettin' there)
Get over my "mail problem"
~~Make marshmallows.~~
~~Write a fan letter to a professional athlete.~~
~~Dress up like a zombie.~~ (check!)
Get rid of 120 things (1-3, 4-9).
Say yes to something, when I really really really want to say no.
Make something(s) crafty and try to sell it on Etsy.
Put Europe photos into a scrapbook.
~~Mail a post secret.~~
~~Make cold brewed iced coffee.~~
Give more dollars and time to my community.
~~Get out of bed when my alarm clock goes off, not 35 minutes later.~~
Start taking fashion photos at least once a week.
Get health in check.
Write two short stories about my life.
Some of these things are not new (I've been to Mexico), some scare the crap out of me (boudoir photos), some just sound super fun (Dress up like a zombie).

Happy Birthday to me!

For Spring

2011-02-19T21:14:00.000-08:00

Isn't this the sweetest for spring?

And PS Its from Furbish and also if you are not reading Jamie's blog, you should be.

If I were...

2011-02-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

a piece of clothes, I would be this Old Navy blazer:

(photos from Old Navy, duh)

A blazer made of jersey knit! I swear this was made for me. Just picture it: me at work, but feeling like in jammies. With a dress around on the weekend looking sharp but feeling like I am in my jammies. With a belt, over bf jeans... sigh, I already have the black one but I think I will get it in green too.

Girl Crush

2011-02-16T21:48:00.000-08:00

(image from NY Post)

I wish Gail Simmons was my mentor in life. She is so stylish, and always the nicest of the judges on Top Chef, and she EATS FOR A LIVING! Yes, I wish I had lunch a few times a year to chat with Gail Simmons to chat about life and work and, of course, food.

When Parents Text

2011-02-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

Have a minute?

Check out "When Parents Text"

You may need to read a few, but guaranteed there will be one that makes you laugh out loud.

You are welcome.

What is Jeopardy?

2011-01-31T11:00:00.000-08:00

I registered to take the audition test for Jeopardy next week. I watch it every day (no really, EVERY day) and I know the answers to like 35% of the questions (I am pretty sure that they have made them easier in recent years) so I am going to give it a try.

Wish my brain luck!

Put A Bird On It

2011-01-31T10:47:00.000-08:00

As you know I hate birds. Like a lot. That is why I was so bothered by (and why I think this is so funny!) the trend in design in recent years: Put a bird on it.

You can find more here.

Sunday Afternoon

2011-01-30T20:00:00.000-08:00

I still adore Jon Lajoie... Everyday Normal Guy & High as F*** still make me laugh out loud, but this is a good one for the weekend:

TFYL: Make cheese souffle

2011-01-29T11:09:00.000-08:00

Well I finally did it. Last week I made a cheese souffle. I gathered my ingredients as well as Mark Bittman for inspiration and instruction:

Cooked up a mess and baked at 400 degrees. It was cheesy and yellow and very nice looking. It turned out well, but as it also turns out, I don't care for cheese souffle (go figure):

I was the only one home so I was the only one to try it. Shortly after I had some it deflated into this:

Verdict: I like making souffle. I don't like eating cheese souffle. I will try to make a sweet one next time.

Do Nothing

2011-01-29T10:09:00.001-08:00

This is awesome! A little reminder when you need to take a break from it all. Just do nothing for two minutes.

Valentiens Gift Ideas

2011-01-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

Perhaps something romantic for the lady?

(Autumn Kiss on Etsy)

For your sister, oh deer, aint this cute? Just in time for Spring.

(plasticland)

For that special man in your life... nothing says love like pink leather:

(Etsy)

Perhaps you know someone with many loves and they are going to be sending oodles of Valentines? A custom return address stamp would make a lovely gift:

A few ideas, but A Dose of Pretty has a lovely list of ideas as well.

Win, Win, Win

2011-01-21T15:46:00.000-08:00

(via we heart it)

In my quest to balance my desire for a simple life with being the proud owner of 75 pairs of cute shoes, I pose questions to myself; questions such as "can you give more and have more?" While philosophically an answer is somewhat difficult to define (in part due to the purposefully vague wording of the question), here is a practical idea: take part in Opinions4Good.

Basically what you do is sign up (for free), pick a charity or two, fill in your demographics, and they will send you an email when a survey for your demographic is available. You can take as many or as few as you want and when you take them you can donate 25-100% of the payment to the charity of your choice, and the rest is mailed to you in a check a few times a year. I do about 20 mins a week and pocket around $10 after giving to my favored non profits (Second Harvest and Big Brothers and Sisters of the Bay Area).

A few minutes of time, pays for my weekly coffee date, and the other $10 can do more. I'd call that a win, win, win.

Note to Self:

2011-01-21T13:00:00.000-08:00

Say "yes" more often to random things. Because I am not going to look back and remember that time I was like "no thanks."

Remember that one of the best things I have ever done is agreed to go to a wedding of someone I didn't know with someone that I didn't know.

It led to a friendship of unimaginable awesomeness.

Again with the kate spade

2011-01-19T16:14:00.000-08:00

I have alluded to it before. But does anyone else hunt around the kate spade online store for inspiration? I can't get enough...

red pants with hounds-tooth? yes please.

Navy + white + polka dots + stripes = yes please.

Class, quirky, sweet. Sigh... I want it all.

And PS I am still in love with this iPhone case or maybe this one. Ggaaaaa... so much cute!

TFYL: Books 11 & 12

2011-01-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

Done and Done.

Book eleven: Gig: Americans Talk About Their Jobs. By John Bowe (Editor), Marisa Bowe (Editor), Sabin Streeter (Editor). Recommended to me by the lovely and always inspirational Sarah Von.

(images via good reads)

Book twelve: The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals by Micheal Pollan. Starting it today.

I've Got Milk

2011-01-14T12:50:00.000-08:00

I don't want to brag, but I am quite good at some things:

I am good at finishing things (this was on my fist employee review at my first "real" job, apparently it is rare around these parts). I am good at cooking tasty meals from the only three ingredients left in the house including a wrinkly potato and canned beans. I am good at encouraging friends to follow dreams and live unconventionally (though currently I lead a highly conventional life myself). I remember names and faces after only meeting you once. I am quite fashionable without being a brand junky (I think that style is a three way mix of thrift and quality and wearing things that fit) I am unusually fast and willing to forgive for past wrongs (you know, because I think that people are always growing anyway), that said I don't really forget much. I can throw a pretty good party, dinner, dress, casual, I'm on it. I can understand pretty complex math and I can read an audience to know if they want to hear about it or not (hint: usually not).

But there are a lot of things that I don't rock at. Life is about balance right? Eating a cookie is cool, but add milk and it is a full on snack.

Consider these the milk:

I am not a great driver, for realz, I get from A to B and always use my signal, but thats really as good as it gets after ten years behind the wheel. I also get lost a lot, like if I go three blocks from my commute (which I have made for five years) I cant find the freeway. I can't remember my dad's birthday. I am not good at adding tip and total quickly. When taking photos during ladies night I can't make a "sexy face"... I just end up looking scared. I don't spell well and I am bad a budgeting for vacations, resulting in huger credit card bills later. I can make coffee in the maker at home, but not well. I only know two ways to do my eye makeup and I always forget to take off my makeup at the end of the day (and by "forget" I mean "remember and decide not to"). I am not good at making new friends, not because I am unfriendly, just because I am shy and feel kinda awkward in groups. I am unmotivated all winter and watch hours a TV a day (as a general rule, if it is dark when I get home from work, then I say home for the rest of the evening). I can't sing. At all.

All these things are a part of who I am. And knowing what I am good at, what I can be better at, and what I should just not do is key to a content life.

Jeans Too Short?

2011-01-14T12:42:00.000-08:00

(image via)

I have a pair of Joe's that are too short. I usually wear them cuffed, but since they are fairly wide-legged they are not really great looking like that. I end up feeling frumpy and baggy. Ideas?

Cutest DIY Dress [I think] Ever

2011-01-12T10:00:00.000-08:00

Mission Thrift here I come!

See I was reading Adored Austin today at work (I know, shhh). And I saw that she did this. Which led me to this. And um, yeah, I want that. But then I remembered I already have a mens extra long shirt waiting to be remade into a dress... so I am going to do that first. That. Then this.

Love me some good inspiration from the internet. Thanks ladies.

Who Says That?!

2011-01-11T14:24:00.000-08:00

Ok look, a few people have said some really stupid things to me this week so let me spell it out:

If someone says to you that their mom is in treatment for cancer but that she is sure all will be well, you should NOT reply with "I know a lot of people that died from cancer." Saying that makes you an asshole and to be frank, if I am your coworker, you are going to make your coworker cry which is going to be awkward for both of us.

Here are some ideas of things to say that do not make you an asshole:
"Sorry to hear that"
"I wish the best for you and your mom"
"Is there anything I can do to help?"
"That can be hard, I went though something similar with my sister/mother/dad/aunt/etc."

Much obliged,
Kate

HD Buttercup and Weekend Plans

2011-01-07T14:04:00.000-08:00

I am totally going to HD Buttercup this weekend. I am also going to finish my bedroom once and for all. After that I am going to get my nails done and relax.

That is all I have planned. I think I can manage. What are you doing this weekend?

Looking Back, Looking Forward

2011-01-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

A lot of bad junk happened in 2010. Click here for a pretty comprehensive list. I might add "my mother diagnosed with CNS Lymphoma in her brain" to this list. Because personally that is far more devastating than, say, being single. And while I don't want to downplay events that devastated our world last year, I want to send a "thank you" to 2010; for being a year to remember.

So many things happened in 2010. Thank you. Thank you 2010 for text to donate. For Dr. James R. For "curable." For giving. Thank you for extended unemployment benefits. For not needing to use them. For black and orange. Thank you for the iPad. For the Vancouver Olympics. For what medical teams can do now days. Thank you for natural beauty and for the H1N1 influenza pandemic being over. For the saving of the lives of thirty-three Chilean miners. Thank you for families. For dinner parties and engagements. For beautiful pictures and inspiring moments. For new babies and growing families.

I think that 2010 was a year to remember and classifying it as a "good year" or a "bad year" is without point. Lets move on to 2011 and bring all the lessons we learned! May 2011 be filled love, beauty, challenges, moments of win, and may we all remember that we are in this crazy life together and we can all impact 2011 in a positive way.

With My Love,
Kate

Causing Quite A Commotion

2011-01-06T13:55:00.000-08:00

at work today in these black & turquoise pattern tights and patent oxfords. Everyone has an opinion on why I wore them: "Are those in style now?", "Are you wearing witch shoes", "Oh Kate", "Cute", and the dreaded "Interesting". Kinda reminds me of that time manfriend said: You are wearing those to work?

Boots!

2011-01-06T13:28:00.000-08:00

I have a pair of plaid canvas rain boots that are pretty much perfect. But they getting older and I want to have a suitable replacement. I have decided to go with rubber so that I can wipe them clean (you know, when they get dirty from all that puddle jumping that I do). Target has some pretty cute options:

I want something cute but also classic enough to last for at least a few years. Which are your favorites?

Furture-Someday-Home Wishlist

2011-01-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

I have talked before about my desire to live in a tiny house (and lets be honest, I currently live in a tiny apartment). But there are a few things that I would not compromise on when it comes time to build my abode.

1. A big old table with room for at least 8-10 people. A table full of homemade food surrounded by people I love is my favorite place to be.

(emmersonmade via design sponge)

(from here)

2. A good sized bathroom. This comes from the fact that mine is like 2x2 and my shower is about 1/4 sized (as it the water heater... boo... fail!). Something with light bright.

(here)

(AT)

3. Windows. Lots of them. I need sunlight. I thrive on sunlight, and frankly thriving is important to me.

(from sweetiepie)

4. Outdoor space and a large porch. Because when you have a tiny house, you need some space to play around outside.

(source)

2011-01-03T13:42:00.000-08:00

(via we heart it)

A time ago I had three best girls.
For so long, we were centered around each other.
And I loved them dearly, but as things sometimes go, we grew apart.
Fist one, then two, then three.
We became singles, from a group to one.
Still.
When the day came for the first to be married, we three assumed that we would be in the wedding.
We assumed wrong.
And feelings were hurt.
As they sometimes are.
We went to wish her the best in love and happiness.
And as we three stood by and watched her dance with that man we didn't know.
The man who won her heart.
We squealed with joy as we realized that he did the same dance as she.
The dance we had long ago named for her.
As she was cute but danced really without rhythm, sense, or style.
Arms swinging around hips bouncing only up and down. Feet still.
And then we realized that she made the right choice without us.
It was right that we faded to the background.
So that minus us she could be one, and meet her one.

TFYL: Red Lips & Sunshine

2011-01-03T12:38:00.000-08:00

The day before Christmas eve (Christmas Eve Eve?) was the beginning of my holiday from work and since I was going to do chores, pick up a few gifts, and meet Mr Mussman for lunch; it was a perfect day, I think, to wear red lips casually. At first when I left the house I felt like everyone was looking at me, then I went to footlocker on Mission for a last minute gift and everyone was looking at me - maybe it was the red, but most likely it was the fact that I was in the footlocker on Mission... later on at Arizmendi for lunch Justin said I looked lovely and after lunch it was gone anyways.

Conclusion: I think I should do this more, I tend to save red for special evenings but it was simple and it felt good to be a tad out of my comfort zone. I felt pretty and sassy and that always adds to a day!

Bedroom Inspration

2010-12-31T11:01:00.000-08:00

So, so, so many things right about this.

And this!

Gossip Girl Fashion

2010-12-28T09:11:00.000-08:00

While looking for kate spade on sale (what... I may like nice things, but I am brokidy-broke most of the time). Anyhows... I came across Gossip Girl Fashion, which I have seen before but then forgot about (How, I'll never know).

Anyways... it is like a daily does of pretty. I am adding it to my reader.

A Year In Cities - 2010

2010-12-22T12:11:00.000-08:00

(image via we heart it)

Short list because I stayed home this year, compared to 2008 and 09. I was saving for two big trips*.

Seattle, WA
Juneau, AK
Victoria, BC
Los Angels, CA

*Planned but canceled: Honolulu, HI and Buenos Aires, Argentina

TFYL: Currently Reading

2010-12-20T15:51:00.000-08:00

Hamlet's BlackBerry: A Practical Philosophy for Building a Good Life in the Digital Age. Manfriend gave it to me as on of my Christmas gifts since he is sweet and knows I am trying to finish this challenge (and also because he thought I would like it, duh). So far it is pretty good, I am only two chapters in. It looks like this:

(you can find it on amazon, where I found this photo)

Very Beautiful Things

2010-12-20T09:36:00.000-08:00

of all types are are happening at Keep Calm Gallery. Case and point:

Pity party over, now back to normal business...

2010-12-20T09:35:00.000-08:00

These are so cute, yes?!

To Let It Go

2010-12-17T16:13:00.000-08:00

My life is full of fun and fluffy things and I like the idea that putting good out to the world will return positive to you. I also think that sometimes to let a feeling go you need to put it somewhere.

Today I feel a little overwhelmed and I want to put that somewhere.

I really really really hate cancer. So hard. So so so so so so so hard.

Things will be ok. I know in my heart that they will. But today I wish they already were. Because it is just so hard to feel so helpless when someone you love is having a hard time.

If you get a free moment today, please send a little good energy our way.

Did you know?

2010-12-16T19:03:00.000-08:00

That if you google "fashionable hoodie" one of the photos that comes up is this:

Cute, cute, cute!

One the same note... anyone have an idea where I can get a stylish sweatshirt? I want something cozy but tired of the usual zip up Roxy ones.

Some Year

2010-12-15T20:48:00.000-08:00

I am going to put my Christmas tree on a pedestal table:

Isn't that just lovely? I lost the source, but I would like to add it so please let me know if you know!

Thankful

2010-12-14T11:25:00.000-08:00

(via sweetiepiestyle)

Gasp!

2010-12-10T20:00:00.000-08:00

These are amazing! I want them... and I also want to try to DIY some.

Bed

2010-12-10T11:08:00.000-08:00

I made a headboard. I never blogged about it because I am a bad blogger and a worse photographer. It is an upholstered number that is turquoise wool and square. I actually really like it. But this deal at JC Penny has me thinking that I should upgrade to the real deal. $94 can you believe it!?

Should I do it?

Did You Know?

2010-12-08T14:11:00.000-08:00

Jessica Simpson is worth a billion dollars?! That is $1,000,000,000,000.

Read all about it.

About Me

2010-12-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that I have been babbling about shorts and bows and stuff and I forgot to tell you about my latest space online.

About.me is super cool! All your online life in one place (someday, right now it is beta and admittedly a little limited), still you should go check me out: katmck and then you should go grab your own spot, becasue I think this is going to be big - maybe twitter big!

Shorts in the Winter?

2010-12-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

I'm taking the plunge ladies...

(image from my when in doubt fashion checker)

I live in the Mission, and can dress accordingly.
I studied polyvore extensively.
Then found a pair for $15 at the limited.
I am plotting tops and shoe chioces.

Thinking about wearing them to B's holiday party. I'll let you know how it works out.

Qestionable Meaning

2010-12-07T07:45:00.000-08:00

People often claim that tattoos are better when they have meaning behind them. And I'll tell ya, "meaning" is personal. At eighteen my bff and I got into a cab in Reno and asked the driver to take us to a tattoo parlor. Upon arrival I got my first foray into ink.No meaning whatsoever, I just wanted a tattoo and I always got cherries painted on my face as a kid as the Frog Jump so it seemed like a logical choice.

Now that I am a certified adult and my bff became a bffn (best friend for now), I still love it. I still think of that day. I still am grateful for the friendship I had with S. I am still fond of the memories of that Reno trip.

Is that enough meaning for you? Maybe not, but it is for me.

Sitting Here...

2010-12-06T16:31:00.000-08:00

having an insane craving for that cheap sushi join in the Richmond... why, oh why, didn't I eat lunch?! And why are walnut rolls so good? Its not even real sushi, its Chinese food on a little boat!

(weheartit)

And P.S. When you crazy craving sushi, you should NOT google sushi photos... duh Kate!

Pretty Bow

2010-12-06T10:56:00.000-08:00

For my next dinner party I am so doing this:

(martha)

P.S. I found it via Nicole, who found it via apartment therapy Chicago.

Happy Hours

2010-12-05T12:01:00.000-08:00

(inage via weheartit)

I like to have happy hour with my coworkerfriend and our other pal. I am so going to be attacking the list on Bay Area on the cheap. This is the best list of happy hours in the city I have seen yet.

It's like that book I read in the 9th grade that said "'tis a far far better thing doing stuff for other people."

2010-12-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

Can we just talk about holiday gifts for a second? No, not mine.

But ideas... you know... for other people.

Here are a few of my faves.

First of all, Esty. For two reasons:
1. They have superb vintage and handmade stuff without having too haulass out to the renegade craft fair.
2. They have this nifty little link to facebook where they will hook up peoples "likes" with things to buy. So simple:

Also I really like looking at overstock.com random categories for ideas and they have a gift finder too... but it is not at cool (Esty totally wins because linking something to facebook automatically makes it 100000 cooler) and also this can take a while and I might get distracted by things I want for myself.

Apartment Therapy is also a totally cool place to poke around for ideas. You know.. for the "homies" in your life ;)

I sometimes just ask. You know, since I told everyone. Even more simple than facebook hunting (can you tell I am impressed by that?) "Hi manfriend, please tell me four or five things you might want and I'll pick one or two to get you."

TFYL: Last Call & Tipping Point

2010-12-02T10:51:00.000-08:00

Currently reading two non-fiction to play catch up in my goal of one a month for a year (which is twelve, duh, currently at nine books with exactly two months to go).

Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition was recommended by Jake. It is a bit "dry" (I can't help myself :) but is actually quite interesting. Americas love affair with and subsequent villainazation of alcohol.

And The Tipping Point, a Malcolm Gladwell "classic" which has been on my to-read list for a while now. By far the most effecting (affecting?) book I have read during this challenge. I can't stop telling people facts and the supporting stories -its non-fiction but with fiction-like subjects and writing style.

Have you got any suggestions?

Holidays via kate spade

2010-12-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

I thought my holiday list was all done. But...

Always get a bit of the gimmy gimmys from kate spade on facebook.

Sigh... I want it all.

TFYL: Year of Living Biblically

2010-11-30T13:10:00.000-08:00

In my quest to ready on non-fiction book a month, book number seven is the best so far... The Year of Living Biblically by A.J. Jacobs. Truly funny and thought provoking.

Santa Baby

2010-11-30T11:31:00.000-08:00

I have been a very very very good girl this year.

Sequin skirt, sweet little loafers, nifty little dishes, a small deer head, "Around the World in 80 Days" poster, Black retro swimsuit,"Ruin Jonny's Bar Mitzvah", pretty little red suitcase set.

Dear Dolly

2010-11-29T16:54:00.000-08:00

Oh dear lord, did you guys know there is a Dolly Parton dot com?! Awesome! Going to DollyWood is on my life list, but I think I might just try to make it next year.

And P.S. Totally one of my personal fashion icons!

(photo from here)

Life Lessons and the Big "C"

2010-11-23T15:11:00.000-08:00

(from here)

Here are some things I learned since my mom has brain cancer: I hate when people say "miracles happen," because while it may be true, it offers no comfort while you are battling the big bad. Family is everything. Everything. It is ok to cry. It is ok to laugh. All the time if you want. People don't have to "understand" they just have to stand ~~near~~ with you. Love is my religion. My family is extraordinarily close, and that makes things easy. Nothing causes stress after this: got rear-ended - no biggie, bad day at work - never, dog ran away - he came back. When things turn upside down, it is sometimes because they were wrong all along. Cancer sucks. Like a lot. But compassion is unlimited, and unstructured, and beautiful. Nurses run the hospital. Smiling can make you feel better, even if you have to fake it at first. About 10,000 things about medical procedures and drugs. Take notes on everything. No, really, everything. You don't need to wait to do what makes you happy, you can do it right now. People in your life look out for you in unexpected and wonderful ways. Life can be so simple.

Bliss, Fat, Fat, Fat Bliss

2010-11-22T15:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Universe,

Thank you for Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars. I can eat like two a day. Every day. For a month. And thank you Starbucks for not posting the nutritianal content online either. Who needs it. Though I did have a lovely excuse for my uptake in calories. Here goes:

Opps, first a photo... yum!

(from the bux)

Ok, here I what I was gonna say: given the recent cold snap I am focusing on upping my fat intake and building my very own layer of warmth right here inside my body... like a seal, but slightly less cute (insert a Seal joke here if you like, but since I am scared of Heidi K and her "Auf Wiedersehen" wrath, I'll just keep my fat mouth shut).

xoxo,
Kate

To My Chirstmas List

2010-11-20T13:00:00.000-08:00

Wm J Mills & Co. I'll have the 32by12 in storm please:

Elections

2010-11-16T15:14:00.000-08:00

A little something I made for my friend Jo:

I didn't think this was the first time I blogged about Gavin's hair, but I can't find the old post...

Black, Black, Black Friday?

2010-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

(weheartit)

I think by now it is clear that I love me some shopping. But holymoly! How are black Friday deals starting on Thursday? And why is KMart have black Fridays weeks before Thanksgiving?

Frankly the whole Black Friday thing is lost on me since there is not really anything less appealing to me than getting up and three am to be around a bunch of deal seekers who get up at three am.

I am thinking of maybe ordering a new camera online though...