thank you for thanking me

If you've followed this blog for any time, you probably know that I am obsessed with all things mid-century modern---but particularly the designs of the Eames---and even more specifically, the molded plastic chairs.

Last year, when I won a teaching award, I put the money I received towards the purchase of four of these beauties for our dining table. Since we don't have children yet, I consider these my babies. Well, it seems my students had been paying attention to this infatuation as well, because at my surprise going-away party they presented me with this poster.

But here's the real kicker....not only did I receive this incredibly thoughtful poster, but the chair as well!!!!! The students pooled together their money to buy me a new baby, Andy Aqua. I was speechless then, and am still in awe of their generosity today. What a present!!!!!!!

The reason I am sharing this news now, nearly three months after the event, is because I finally received the real chair, which had been on backorder, this week! It is going to work great with a new desk Edgar has been busy making me this summer.

To all who contributed, thank you, thank you, thank you!

Photos of the chair [and desk] soon to come.

getting up and going

Pardon the late post. I was feeling a little less than creative when I woke up this morning. However, after taking the time to do some of the things that inspire me the most : lunching with my gal pals, visiting Anthropologie, thrifting and a little plein air sketching I'm feeling much, much better.

I'm lucky right now to have the freedom to take off and do these things. Hopefully you are in an even better place, but if you're not...and are chained to a desk...allow me to share some of this inspiration with you.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

First up, I'm Loving with a capital 'L' the new colors of latte bowls at Anthro. I'm especially drawn to the combination of gray, seafoam and yellow. Feels like a winning paint combo if I do say so myself!

Ditto for this nail polish:

and these hair thingamajigs:

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

While making the rounds at one of my favorite thrift stores, I was very tempted to start an awkward cross stitch collection. I already have two [see here and here] and according to my mom, all it takes is three of something to have a collection. Sadly, however, this awkward cross stitch is too true to life right now to be funny. Oh well, another day.

I also found this ahhhhhmazingly huge map of Paris which I would love to have in our bedroom if it wasn't 429-. Since I can't have it, you need it, don't you? I'll come visit and be cool by virtue of association.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Finally, I visited Addam's Art Loft for a new sketchbook and pens. It never fails that my inspiration and pens run dry at the same time....so here's to keeping plenty of fresh pens! With new supplies in hand, I copped a squat and drew the store.

I'll share that drawing and the ones from my vacay soon! Until then, wishing you the best...and a steady supply of ink-filled pens!

tommy's box: process

A couple months ago, professor Patrick Lee Lucas asked me if I could work on a present to commemorate the Department Chair at Interior Architecture: Tommy Lambeth. I have to admit...the question caused me goosebumps, but I accepted. If you would see Tommy's work, I bet you would have the same reaction. Patrick asked me to make a box in which students and alumni would place cards, notes or small presents for Tommy. I also have to admit...I was honored to have the task. Cheers Tommy!

tommy's box: a gesture of gratitude

To Tommy.

there was a young woman

that lived in a shoe [ok, a house] and had so many chairs she didn't know what to do.

I just got news.

My babies have new siblings. Quite handsome siblings I might add.

Meet Georgie Gray:

and Andy Aqua:

They'd fit in so well around here (especially considering the new color palette and all). If only... Learn more about these beauties here.

form over function

I'm loving the look of the Night and Day Convertible Sofa by Urban Outfitters.  It's clean lines are perrrrfect.  Unfortunately, the reviews aren't quite as stellar.  

Dear Mr. Manufacturer...why, oh why, do you tease us this way?

a gift to my wife

I am not certain of my woodworking skills. But if there is anything I am certain of is of the deep love I feel for my wife. She lives to draw, and for this reason I decided to risk loosing a couple of my fingers in a wood shop trying to build these two pen holders for her office desk. She says she loves them; I hope you do as well.

experience 1: installation

This installation could have not been possible without the assistance and skills of a wonderful friend and colleague: designer Adrian Boggs. He was able to help me understand how the heck I was going to build and install this structure. It is quite clear that design is a collaborative process that unites people and strengthens the sense of community. Thanks A! you are indeed a friend!