Providence Classic

Halfy Birthday!

2011-11-21T21:02:00.000-06:00

Our little pumpkin is 6 months today! Half of me can't believe it's been 6 months, and the other half of me feels like she was born 12 years ago (those first few weeks are . . . special). She is, literally, the best days of my life.

kate spade featuring my friend Char

2011-11-02T16:35:00.002-05:00

One of my very best friends is a jewelry designer at kate spade (pretty much every kate spade jewelry piece you see in a mag - yup, she created it). The daughter of renowned artist and author David Macaulay and a historian/teacher/expert seamstress mother (whose beautiful photo you can see in the top right corner, along with a good 'ol Wolski's bumper sticker!), it's no surprise Charlotte Macaulay is both creative and extremely skilled. Clothes, bags? Yep, she does those, too. In fact, Charlotte designed and made my wedding dress. Introducing Charlotte Macaulay, via kate spade's "behind the curtain" blog!

Photo via kate spade

it’s often said that we’re a brand known for our baubles. we sat down with the girl behind the sparkle—charlotte, our jewelry designer—to talk about shopping, our holiday collection and the gem she uncovered in the vending machine.

q: how did you get into jewelry design?
a: it wasn’t really planned. at parsons i studied apparel design, but i’ve always had an interest in accessories. after an internship at kate spade new york, the jewelry assistant designer spot opened and i thought, hey! this could be great. i was right.

q: what keeps you busy during the day?
a: day to day i do everything from sketching and brainstorming new concepts to vintage shopping (7), searching for inspiration, bead shopping, making jewelry, reviewing samples, correcting samples and going on multiple, multiple starbucks runs.

q: who inspires you?
a: my dad, david (6), who taught me from a young age the importance of doing something you love as a job.

q: what’s your jewelry design claim to fame?
a: one of the first styles i worked on was the all wrapped up bow ring (4) with the grosgrain texture. we still use it in the jewelry line and it’s also expanded to belts and a few home products.

q: tell us a little-known fact about our holiday collection.
a: i sent two pieces of actual popcorn from our fourth floor vending machine to the factory to get the most realistic shape possible for the popcorn garland necklace (2).

q: which have been your favorite pieces?
a: i love the date night ring. i had a lot of fun with this one—in true ksny fashion, it offers a quirky pop of color to any look.
the pearl street statement necklace—this piece was a work in progress to say the least. i combined necklace samples from several different collections and added other elements i found locally. it really came to life at my desk.
i can’t wait for the double exposure collection (graphic day pieces in great colors!) to arrive in december.

q: pick three things at your desk and tell us about them.

a: my pliers (5) are essential. whether it’s creating a new piece or fixing a sample, i could not do my job without these.

this millimeter gauge (1) is always nearby because i am constantly measuring.

my bulletin board (3) is where i stick anything and everything—from inspirational images and photos to random odds and ends that strike me.

Love it! Also, the popcorn necklace is genius.

Missoni for Target

2011-09-02T11:23:00.001-05:00

Get your countdown on! Starting September 13, Missoni for Target hits stores and online with over 400 items in women's, men's, and children's clothing, home and more. I know people have ripped the previewed clothes, but I have to be honest - these look amazingly like their couture counterparts. The question will be: what are the fabrics like? If they're a cotton blend, fantastic. Rayon-polyester? Eh, it's going to look real cheap.

Based on the ads, here are some items look adorable, wearable in everyday life, and affordable to moi:

Adult twin set

Kids hoodie (I may just buy this for Arden years down the road because it's so fun and youthful)

Long cardigan (worn with jeans, yes!) and patterned tights

Long cardigan (again, for jeans)

Not entirely sure what this item is, but I'm intrigued . . . kimono-style dress? Sweater cape?

A true Missoni piece

Cardigan-jacket

(boy is the styling awful here; hello Italian Amish)

Flats!

Patterned tights

Scarves (I would frame and place in a hallway or make a pillow of - perhaps a different scarf for each side?)

Baby onesie and blanket! Man, I hope these are cotton! My Calypso for Target bloomer onesies are among my favorite pieces in Arden's closet. (And yes, I purchased them all before she arrived and when we thought we were having a boy. They were too cute to pass up.)

Frames

Incredibly chic outdoor furniture

Coverlet - great for a guest bedroom with fun colors and a reversible pattern

Towels and shower curtain - which - depending on its fabric - I am fully considering using as drapes. Love the modern stripes and reversible option. This curtain is my number 1 covet right now.

Fab, fab, fab bike

Personally, I'm pretty impressed with the photos. Guess we'll have to wait and see what the items are like in person. One of the upsides of living in Wisconsin is European fashion (okay, fashion in general) doesn't have much of a following. Meaning, I have my pick of the litter. Woo hoo!

Do you like?

As Seen on

2011-08-22T14:18:00.000-05:00

Copy Cat Chic today - just purchased two of these zig zag rugs in grey:

The reviews were great, though there were complaints that the black ink rubbed off. Since I went with a light gray stripe, I'm not too worried about it. And for this price, I am totally willing to order (it's online only) and see if it works. My plan is to lay them side by side in the living room.

Check it out here. If you're interested in buying too, I hunted down a coupon code for Urban on Google and got 10% off. There's also a free shipping sale today, though you can only choose one of the discounts. Happy shopping!

O'verlays by Danika & Cheryle

2011-08-15T09:52:00.000-05:00

Spied this puppy on "Me, You and a Weiner Dog" blog: O'verlays (yep, name is awful).

"Olivia," painted gold and attached to an Ikea RAST dresser

"Gigi," as a divider/partial screen

They currently have 6 available patterns, including fretwork and Greek key designs. Clever solution to upgrading an Ikea or thrift store find. Shop here.

Thoughts?

Pure Style: Sofas

2011-08-12T12:04:00.000-05:00

I check in with this blog from time to time - and Wednesday (August 10th, if you need to search for the post) Lauren had a great item about inexpensive but nice-looking upholstered sofas. Thought I would throw it your way . . .

Image via Pottery Barn

Full post here!

Etsy: Kari Herer

2011-08-08T13:36:00.001-05:00

Just discovered the Etsy shop of Kari Herer, a photographer from Portland, Maine. Love the stills of flowers, and those with a mix of botanicals and illustrations (silverware and antlers are also common subjects). Her work's been seen in Martha Stewart Weddings, Lonny magazine, Daily Candy and more. Beautiful.

Prices starting at $25 for an 8 x 10 photo.

Images by Kari Herer found here.

Belated Wishes

2011-08-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

To my parents for yesterday, their 36th wedding anniversary. They are an inspiration to Una and to me - just like my grandparents, who were married 68 years.

Happy anniversary!

Keep on truckin'!

Clos-ette Chic

2011-08-03T08:47:00.001-05:00

Melanie Fascitelli, founder of Clos-ette in New York (a high-end closet design and organization firm), interviewed my friend, interior designer Sara Gilbane. Needless to say, Sara has been a fabulous dresser for as long as I can remember and now that we have grown up, her closet has, too. (Apparently I'm still a thirteen year old, per the Forever 21 and H&M that craps up my closet.)

Here's an excerpt from the interview - get the whole piece here.

What would you dream closet look like?

I have pulled so many images for my dream closet or dream closets for clients that it is tough to choose. However, if I had to choose, I would go with a wall-to-wall carpet (in a fun graphic print or animal print), I would upholster the walls in some sort of fabulous fabric (a pattern or a faux shagreen would be outstanding) and would have high-gloss cabinetry with plenty of shelves for my shoes and bags. I would also have a jewelry case of some kind made so I could see all my jewelry while getting dressed. The lighting in closets is also key, and nothing beats a custom or vintage light fixture. Slightly antiqued mirror inset in a panel as a full length mirror would finish it off. I also love having a free standing piece (an ottoman or beautiful chair) in the room where you can sit with a glass of wine or have a friend sit. Getting dressed should be a fun and relaxing process. For my husband’s closet, I would upholster the walls in a grey pinstripe and do high-gloss cabinetry in a deep blue or red.

I'll take any of those shoes, thank you. Custom closet with fabric wallpaper, chandelier and lucite handles - another item to add to the future house. You know, the one I get to live in when pigs fly. Sigh.

Door County Souvenir

2011-08-01T16:46:00.000-05:00

Well, I don't think I'm allowed (given its unwarranted ticket price of $1100), but nonetheless this puppy was awesome in person. A standout piece - an antique carved English chest. Perfect for our master bedroom in our future house.

S.O.S.

2011-08-01T16:40:00.001-05:00

Babytator had her first swim this weekend in Door County (the Midwest's version of Cape Cod; literally - that's the slogan).

First, Mom had to get me dressed in my flashy suit and covered in sun block.

We shall start with the left foot, pinky toe.

I will allow the heel . . .

Now right foot, pink--

Una: Oh, for cryin' out loud, we'll be here 'til she's forty. Hand her over.

And, swim lesson over.

Mom: It's so hard being right all of the time.

;)

Dear Dyson

2011-07-27T12:30:00.000-05:00

Thank you.

Vacuum running with nowhere to go (nah, I'm not going to actually use it) = a sleeping baby. Hallelujah.

That Postcard You're Always Meaning to Send

2011-07-26T13:28:00.000-05:00

So yep, I've fallen off the face. This is what happens with a young babe like Miss Arden, who I have lovingly named Babytator (as in the wee version of a dictator, not the tot-style of potatoes). Babytator likes to live on the edge, which means I wake every day wondering what time - or if - I will get out of the house. If Babytator has her two or so naps in the morning, afternoon is open! Watch out world! (Seriously, some of these diapers require a toxic cleanup akin to the B&P disaster.) If not . . . Una arrives home to a flying baby headed straight for his arms as I sprint out the door for a stress-relieving run.*

Anywho, was flipping through the latest issue of Better Homes & Gardens (in place of the many, many shelter magazines that have closed, this one has youthened up a ton and is fully worth the subscription) and discovered this app.

For Android and iPhones - the Postagram application (postagramapp.com) takes a photo from your phone and for a fee of 99 cents, turns it into a postcard with your message and mails it anywhere in the world. How cool is that?

Course I don't have an Android or iPhone. Family! Friends! Send me, Una and the Babytator a postagram! Preferably of the outdoors, which I don't see much of these days.

*Sadly, these runs are few and far between thanks to the ridiculous heat wave we've been having. Oh yeah, and the crap food I eat. Meals are defined by: me not making it, and what arrives the fastest.

Bravo Summer Camp

2011-07-13T12:19:00.000-05:00

I just love this commercial and all its variations on Bravo.

http://youtu.be/OCOZHl9y8G4

I mean, seriously. This is exactly the adult version of camp I would sign up for.

Oh yeah, and Curtis is cute, man.

The Stanley Kiss

2011-06-20T08:12:00.000-05:00

I thought Canadians were mild-mannered? Seems Vancouver got a little crazy after it lost the hockey finals to the Boston Bruins (burn - go Boston!).

In the midst of a full-fledged street riot, a young couple was photographed having a sweet moment . .

Okay, turns out the circumstances weren't that sweet. The police started beating everyone in the vicinity with their shields (seen carried in the foreground) and the boy's girlfriend was knocked to the ground in the process. Trying to calm her, he leaned down and quickly kissed her. This little second was not only captured on film but in video, where you can see the whole thing go down. Go ahead and add this photo to the list of famous kisses -

Want!

2011-06-09T19:07:00.000-05:00

Urban Outfitters Fleur Embroidered Pouf for $69.00

So cute for a little girl's room.

Buy it here.

Newborn Necessities

2011-06-08T16:02:00.000-05:00

Wow, life with a newborn. Let's call it . . . spontaneous. My day revolves around the little one and whatever version of a schedule she prefers. Here are the items that are worth their weight in gold for a new mom who most days can't remember if she's brushed her teeth:

Summer Infant BestView Digital Video Monitor

It's probably added hours to my precious sleep (allowing me to determine if Arden's really up and moving, or just making her standard pterodactyl noises as she dreams). Zooms, scans and has great sound.

Miracle Swaddle Blanket

Recommended to us by numerous people and after testing out no less than 5 different swaddles (Wombie, standard folding blankets, MySwaddle, and more), this is the only one that keeps her arms in check. Girlfriend is squirmy! (Warning: it is a bit like a straight jacket . . . in a good way.) Also allows you to use on taller child, as you have the option not to enclose her legs.

MAM Pacifier

The right size for a little newborn's mouth. Given to us at the hospital.

Petit Bateau Newborn Kimono-Style Onesies

The side-snap is the best - no over the head action. Also adorable. Wish I had bought more!

Pampers Swaddlers for Newborns

When you're on your 20th diaper change and it's 4 AM and you're supposed to keep track of all of your baby's wet ones, the urine stripe (turns blue if they went) is priceless. Trust me. Plus, the elastic legs on Pampers are stronger than Huggies. Also priceless. Really trust me.

xox

Great Dress

2011-06-06T15:47:00.000-05:00

Emma Watson in Marchesa at the 2011 MTV Movie Awards. Awesome.

(And no, I didn't watch. I was asleep between feedings. Arden was furious she missed, but I told her she's got years of Justin Bieber ahead of her.)

Why Yes, Thank You

2011-06-01T15:58:00.000-05:00

I'll take this, courtesy of Copy Cat Chic . . .

Teva Living Trestle Table on sale for $995

Schooled by a 24 Year Old

2011-05-26T10:04:00.002-05:00

Check out this recent college grad's rental apartment in Boston, filled with her DIY projects and flea market and Craigslist finds. Looks magazine-worthy and expensive (campaign-style cabinets or nightstands have been on my want list forever!). Wow, wow, wow.

Photo by Luisa Design

See the apartment photos on Copy Cat Chic today. I'm off to search Craigslist between feedings, cuddles and naps.

Wolf Pack: Official

2011-05-24T12:22:00.001-05:00

Una has been saying for weeks that little Bloom was the official start of our wolf pack and here she is:

Arden Crowley Bloom

Photos by Emmie Cerow

Posting likely to stop for some time for baby bonding. And sleep.

Special Delivery

2011-05-21T15:59:00.001-05:00

May 21, 2011 at 9:33 AM

6 Pounds, 2 Ounces

Baby Girl Bloom

Healthy Appetite, Advanced Sleeper, Una's Beautiful Curls - My Kind of Girl

(name to be determined)

Girlfriend has a full head of hair!

And yes, epidural occurred. Holy sweet hell, natural birth went out the door when I went from 0 - 8 centimeters in two hours flat. That drug is a gift from heaven above.

(I was worried she might be groggy after birth from it, but she was peering at everything for 2 hours! Not a single effect!) Exhausted and thrilled.

Happy birthday!

Bon Jovi & Baby

2011-05-20T13:06:00.000-05:00

Guess where we're going on Saturday night?

Baby's first hairspray. I mean, concert.

Inexpensive Swap for Williams Sonoma Cashmere Throw

2011-05-19T15:01:00.000-05:00

Clearly it isn't cashmere at this price (it's a lightweight wool), but at $55 for a 50" x 70" throw in a plethora of excellent colors, this substitute is a fantastic "now" item. (Since cashmere is in the "later when we have more money to burn" category.)

Available at Company C.

A Custom Crib Skirt

2011-05-19T12:10:00.000-05:00

Una thinks I'm crazy, but since I'm forever dealing with champagne taste on a beer budget, I tend to take on too many projects. (Case in point, our headboard - which took 9 months to come to fruition.) And when it came to the baby's room (and the crib set I liked totaled $995, courtesy of Serena & Lily), I decided it needed a complete rehaul, Abbey-style. AKA, new headboard and bed skirt for the guest bed, crib skirt, pillows and coordinating trim on the inexpensive glider, all done by moi.

Hah. As of now, I've added a grey linen trim to the skirt of the glider (now proven to be a completely unnecessary design task), sucked it up and ordered three pillows from Calico Corners, recovered the bedside lamp in leftover fabric and some rope welting, am halfway done with the headboard, and finally completed Bloomberry's crib skirt. The bed skirt has been abandoned in light of our looming due date.

Here's a photo of the finished crib skirt, made of Thom Filicia's seagull print linen from Calico Corners. I absolutely love it (a bolster pillow and the bedside lamp will match). Pouf is Calypso St. Barth Target collection!

Apologies for the dark tint - I'm on the computer that won't let me edit photos. Will update later. I think it looks great. Though those wheels need to be removed from the crib stat! Una!

Ralph Lauren at Home . . . on the Ranch

2011-05-18T10:12:00.000-05:00

Though this is not necessarily my style of home decor, the setting is fantastic. (Okay, I wouldn't look this gift horse in the mouth. I would take it in a heartbeat.) Wow. Wow. Wow. Check out the full post at Habitually Chic for more photos here.

Want

2011-05-17T12:24:00.000-05:00

Both the model's legs and the jeans:

William Rast Jade Trouser in Stone

$176.00

Available here.

Gilt Steal

2011-05-17T10:40:00.001-05:00

Safavieh Furniture sale at Gilt Groupe today and this fabulous linen-slipcovered chair is a steal!

Two for dinner? Adorable as the head seats at a dining table. I'd pair with wooden side chairs to add natural texture.

Sandra Slipcover Chair for $360 (from $952!)

I wish . . .

Ballard Beauties

2011-05-16T09:49:00.000-05:00

I am constantly impressed by pieces in the Ballard Designs catalogs. For a very inexpensive price, the company copies designer pieces in a big box way. Yes, I am sure corners are cut in quality in some respects, but you're still getting something better than Ikea and Crate & Barrel with - in my personal opinion - a lot of more interior style. Here are some pieces from the most recent catalog that I'm liking:

Gaspar Luggage Rack for $99.00

Tribeca Bench & Sectional for $309 and up

Durham Tall Bookcase for $499

Column Garden Seat for $159

Lotus Garden Seat for $159

Winged Chair for $449 and up

Bella Cane Bar Stool for $349

York Street Outdoor Table (take 10% off) for $189

Bornova Side Table for $199 (wish this was in coffee table size)

All at BallardDesigns.com

Blogger Issues: Recap

2011-05-14T15:35:00.001-05:00

Well, I posted on Friday and apparently the internet has deleted any proof of its existence. Those embarassing and hideous photos on Facebook I wish never existed? Yeah, they'll be around for my grandchildren's grandchildren.

I'll sum it up real quick - congrats to my youngest sister, Eliza - graduating with honors (and inducted into Phi Beta Kappa!) today! In honor of all of the graduations happening across the country, I posted a design plan from the latest issue of Nesting Newbies, created by Camila of Effortless Style for a young woman just starting out. Her budget is $2500, but I think it could easily be cut in half or more by getting all big pieces from a thrift or vintage store or (nice) garage sale. Adding in lighting, rugs, throw pillows and inexpensive artwork from big box stores or Etsy keeps the look modern and fresh. Get cracking graduates - (pages 206-207)!

http://nestingnewbies.com/magazine/issuefive.html

Spring Lonny!

2011-05-11T09:18:00.002-05:00

The May/June online issue of Lonny is here!

Check it out!

Yep. James Taylor.

2011-05-10T09:50:00.002-05:00

I'm pretty sure I need to get hired by Jon's company. Current skill set? Snarky commentator, excellent snacker, internet extraordinista. And ordained minister, a la the Universal Life Church(.com), should an emergency marital union be required.

This weekend, Una's boss threw a joint birthday party for himself and his wife (both having turned the big '65' this year) for 500 of their friends and colleagues (including many who they've met through their charity work). With this ninth month kicking my rear end, 6 PM rolled around and found me moaning in my bed a la "When Harry Met Sally" as Una left the house ready for the big bash.

Big bash was correct. At 7:31 PM I received a text from Una that read: "The surprise musical guest is JAMES TAYLOR. Get here NOW."

Obviously I dragged my chubby bottom out of bed and made it to the last 45 minutes of his performance, and just in time for my favorite song, "Mexico." Like the giant party pooper I am these days, I waddled out the second the concert ended. Una stayed for cupcakes and the remaining festivities. The coolest part? After James Taylor left, his boss went on stage and pulled 10 names out of a bowl. [When everyone first checked into the party hours before, each was asked what charity they would donate to if they had a choice.] Una's boss donated money on the spot to each of those 10 chosen charities. So cool.

I was informed the next morning that "any future party thrown by said boss would require mandatory attendance."

I think I can be on board with this.

The Dirty Thirties

2011-05-08T19:49:00.002-05:00

Una's been trying to persuade Bloomberry through nightly chats that arriving before his 30th birthday ("so I can always tell our child that I was in my twenties and you were 31 when it was born") was its best bet.

Alas, today arrived: no babe.

To welcome a new decade filled with serious responsibility, Una took himself over to Home Depot and bought a big 'ol grill. I am fully supportive of any and all cooking-related activities that do not involve me. In fact, I'm pretty sure winter grilling is completely underrated.

Happy birthday, Una! 30 is the new 21.

Saved By the Bell

2011-05-07T09:22:00.003-05:00

Sleep? What's that? I haven't slept through the night since December. Lately, there's been even less to go around, what with the baby treating my bladder like a punching bag. Waking me out of any kind of slumber is like breaking into a hibernating bear's cave and pelting its face with rocks. I suggest you do that . . . never.

This morning, after being awake for a 2.5 hour streak in the middle of the night (along with the usual 7 trips to the loo), I was rudely surprised by a flying elbow to my lower back. Having finally fallen back asleep just an hour before, I opened one squinty eye and prayed I was confusing a loving back rub for the violent wake-up call. The tap-tap-tap of Una's Blackberry informed me I was not.

Needless to say, the ensuing conversation did not go well for anyone involved.

After Una scampered out of the house in primal fear to get cereal and "anything I needed for breakfast," the door bell rang. Sauntering over in my Giants belly-baring tee shirt (it's Jon's and still not long enough to cover the beast) and a highly-unflattering, calf-length pair of striped pajama pants, I was greeted by a bouquet of Mother's Day flowers and a beaming delivery man.

Well-played, Una. Well-played.

Defcon 1 emotional crisis averted.

Happy Mother's Day everyone, and a happy early 30th birthday to my dear, dear loving Una.

I Can't Keep This Stuff Straight

2011-05-06T10:39:00.001-05:00

Everyone says pregnancy is 9 months (39 completed weeks). But when you get down to the technicalities, it's a little different. As of today, our little Bloomberry is fully formed (meaning its lungs can function on their own outside the womb) and considered "full term." But officially, a "full term" baby is born anywhere from the 37th week to the 42nd week. Way back when, Halle Berry was lampooned for saying a pregnancy was 10 months long. It's not right, but it's not totally off. By the time you hit 42 weeks (please Lord, no), you're already into that 10th month.

Anywho, countdown is on. Sleep has gone out the window, wiener fingers are in full effect (courtesy of swollen hands - Una says my fingers aren't big enough for the medical term 'sausage fingers'), getting dressed is an unfortunate situation that involves more spandex than I care to admit, putting on non-velcro shoes makes me break out in a sweat, and my belly is so tight it feels like one wrong kick and the baby's likely to fly out of my belly button a la "Alien 3" (or Renesmee's birth in Breaking Dawn for you younger folks).

Pregnancy is a funny thing.

Cinco de Drinko and More

2011-05-05T05:16:00.001-05:00

Image via JSonline.com

Cinco de Mayo (Spanish for "fifth of May") is a holiday held on May 5. It is celebrated nationwide in the United States and regionally in Mexico, primarily in the state of Puebla.The date is observed in the United States as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride, and to commemorate the cause of freedom and democracy during the first years of the American Civil War. In the state of Puebla, the date is observed to commemorate the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín.

Below, some local places to celebrate "Cinco de Madness" (courtesy of OnMilwaukee.com) - including Beer Bong Bingo, a free flat screen TV giveaway, the first ever Bay View Salsa Crawl, "Cinco de Drinko" at Spin Milwaukee, the "Air Sex World Championships" (you have to read it to believe it), a jalapeno-eating contest and more. Man, I cannot wait for my first frozen mango margarita post-baby. Sweet, cold deliciousness.

Art Bar
722 E. Burleigh St., (414) 372-7880
artbar-riverwest.com
In honor of Cinco de Mayo, Art Bar is hosting "Beer Bong Bingo" with $3 Lakefront brews, rails or shots from 8 p.m. to close. Bingo is from 10 p.m. to midnight, and if you win bingo, the beer bong is one of the prizes. (But don't fret if bongs aren't your thing, there are other prizes, maybe even some with Mexican themes.)

Burnhearts
2599 S. Logan Ave., (414) 294-0490
Burnhearts will serve up Mexican beer specials during the day and a hard cider tasting with Crispin and Fox Barrel on tap in the evening.

Bel Air Cantina
1935 N. Water St., (414) 226-2245
belaircantina.com
A shot of Inocente tequila gets you a ticket to win prizes in a raffle, including a flat screen TV. Keep things going with Corona, Corona Light cans and Dos Equis taps for $2.

Bryant's Cocktail Lounge
1579 S. 9th St., (414) 383-2620
bryantscocktaillounge.com
If cerveza isn't your beverage of choice, sit back and enjoy the holiday the old fashioned way, that is with some old fashioned cocktails. Bryant's "Bone Crusher" of tequila, fresh lime, pepper and hot sauce is $3.50 all day Thursday. Enjoy it with some other $5 old fashioneds during cocktail hour from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Tonic Tavern
2335 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., (414) 455-3205
tonictavern.com
Join OnMilwaukee.com, Art Milwaukee, NEWaukee and the Tweet Up Girls for the first annual "Bay View Salsa Crawl and Art Jamboree." Visit each of the three bars from 7 to 10 p.m. to sample and vote on your favorite salsa. Enjoy Cinco de Mayo themed art from six local artists, Mexican appetizers, three live bands, dance performances and Cumbia lessons. Open canvas painting, skull candy decorating, pinatas, a taco truck and much more go with the drink specials at each bar, like Corona for $3 until they're gone at Sugar Maple.

Cielito Lindo
739 S. 2nd St., (414) 649-0401
cielitolindomilwaukee.com
Pop in to Cielito Lindo's 2nd Street location for a cold $2.50 Tecate and stay for some classic Mexican dishes.

COA
5750 N. Port Washington Rd., (414) 967-1451
getcoa.comCOA, the Bianchini restaurant at Bayshore Town Center, gets going early with the Maricachi Azteca Real Trio at 11:30 a.m. Great food and specials all day. DJ Willy and dancing from Salsabrosa all night from 9 p.m. to midnight.

Conejitos539 W. Virginia St., (414) 278-9106conejitosplace.netConejitos is always a destination for good, cheap Mexican food. Go for your usual on Cinco de Mayo and also take in a live Tex-Mex band from 5 to 10 p.m.

Tres Hermanos
1332 W. Lincoln Ave., (414) 384-9050
If you can take the heat, and quickly, sign up for the Third Annual Jalapeno Eating Contest at Tres Hermanos during the Lincoln Village Cinco de Mayo celebration. First one to eat 20 jalapenos wins a three-day trip to Las Vegas. Drink specials at all three bars begin at noon. Contest starts at 6 p.m. with live music throughout the day.

Mark Pasch, Ltd.
333 W. Brown Deer Rd., (414) 351-5634
markpaschlimited.com/mpltd.html
Mark Pasch hosts the "Cinco de Mayo Trunk Show" for new summer and fall 2011 clothing lines with a bar and Mexican appetizers from noon to 8 p.m. Otto's Liquor will have a tequila presentation.

Spin Milwaukee
233 E. Chicago St., (414) 831-7746
spingalactic.com/milwaukee
"Cinco de Drinko" begins at 9 p.m. with $3 Jose Cuervo and $5 Patron shots and $20 bottomless tap beer (except Triple Abbey). Fortunately for those taking advantage of the bottomless taps, the kitchen is open until midnight.

Stonefly Brewery
735 E. Center St., (414) 264-3630
stoneflybrewery.com
The organizers of the "Air Sex World Championships," hosted by comedian Chris Trew, say there's no better way to spend Cinco de Mayo. Picture an air guitar competition, but the person performing on stage has an imaginary sex partner (and maybe an imaginary guitar still, who knows). No nakedness or real orgasms, just sexy fun for a $5 cover.

Trocadero
1758 N. Water St., (414) 272-0205
ztrocadero.com
Celebrate "Cinco de Madness" at Trocadero with $5 house and $8 top-shelf margaritas. Each margarita gets you a ticket to win bottles of high quality tequila.

Savage Beauty? Questionable Fashion.

2011-05-03T09:40:00.001-05:00

Boy, what a disappointment.

Frankly, fashion in general lately has been boo-ring. The royal wedding and now the Met Gala - fashion's biggest social event of the year - commemorating none other than the bad boy of fashion, Alexander McQueen - and this is what we get? Snoozefest.

And while I think the classic ladylike looks that are the rage these days are beautiful, they just aren't exciting or interesting. Here are my personal favorites from last night's party in New York City, and a few disasters for amusement.

First, a few that dressed in the spirit of the eccentric McQueen . . .

Liv Tyler in Givenchy Haute Couture

Shalom Harlow in Marchesa

Karolina Kurkova in Jean Paul Gaultier

Hillary Rhoda in Alexander McQueen

Followed by the good . . .

Maggie Gyllenhaal in Stella McCartney

Ashley Olsen in vintage Dior Haute Couture

While I'm not sure I would wear this, she looks so grown-up.

Isabel Lucas in Louis Vuitton

The color and headpiece make this unique, which is exactly what Alexander McQueen was - absolutely a one-of-a-kind.

Amy Poehler in J. Mendel

This is classic and elegant, but the color, sheer drape and her necklace make it interesting, no matter what decade. I would love, love to own this dress.

Hair = fail.

Princess Paltrow in Stella McCartney

She's on a column dress kick (hello Oscars), but this one fits amazing. Also backless.

Florench Welch (of Florence and the Machine) in Yves Saint Laurent

She looks like she dropped out of the 30s. And love her red hair.

Naomi Watts in Stella McCartney

On the safe side, but loving by the long, sheer sleeves.

The Almost Award: Mary-Kate Olsen in vintage Givenchy

I love the dress; the fit is horrendous. If the waist and hips were fitted and the sleeves belled out and came in at the wrist, I would wear this in a heartbeat.

The green and deep corally red are awesome together.

Hair, as usual, a fail.

The bad . . .

Elettra Wiedemann in her grandmother Ingrid Bergman's dress, as redesigned by Prabal Gurung

Unflattering across the board. Should have kept it long.

Emma Stone in Lanvin

Hair, lipstick, floral pattern, dress shape: all zeros.

Jessica Alba in Ralph Lauren

Pretty sure they took a wrinkled bolt of bridesmaid silk and wrapped her in it. Awful.

Penelope Cruz

She's worn this dress a million times. That's why.

Sofia Vergara in Carolina Herrera.

Or is it Laura Ashley's prom collection? I can't tell. The worst of the worst.

Looks cheap.

And the hot:

Jeremy Irons's son, Max Irons. Just because.

Photos via style.com; nymag.com; stylefrizz.com.

Thoughts?

Savage Beauty

2011-05-02T14:01:00.000-05:00

The Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute's Gala is tonight and its theme is Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty.

Of course, the timing is quite perfect, as Alexander McQueen's creative director (McQueen committed suicide last year at the age of 41) Sarah Burton designed Kate Middleton's wedding dress for her marriage to Prince William.

Photos via Style.com

Can't wait!

Breakfast with a Princess

2011-04-29T07:51:00.002-05:00

Una and I arose at 4 AM central time in order for me to drop him off at work before heading to my friend Emmie's apartment to watch the royal wedding. Emmie, Sunny and I donned tiaras and ate eggs while watching the festivities. It's now 7:45 AM and my morning's spent.

The dress? Beautiful, but safe and boring. I was hoping for something more modern. I've decided Kate - excuse me, Princess Catherine (official title, Princess William of Wales, as she is not of royal descent and must take Will's name) - had her sister and maid of honor Pippa wear the dress she really wanted, and went with a traditional, Grace Kelly-esque style for the Queen's sake. Might as well throw your grandmother-in-law a bone and get in her good graces early (you know she rules the palace roost with a glove-covered iron fist; lady does not mess around). Both dress designs by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.

Pippa Middleton

Royal Breakfast, Milwaukee Styles.

Don't judge - it was early and I was having a hot flash.

My favorite part of the ceremony was the singing of "God Save the Queen." Which everyone participated in . . . except the Queen. Of course you can't sing a song about yourself. Just amazing.

Wedding Favors

2011-04-28T10:55:00.002-05:00

In honor of the wedding of the decade (century?), manufacturers across the globe have crafted clever knick knacks to commemorate this magnificent occasion. Here, I've culled a day's worth of memorabilia for the royal-obsessed.

Breakfast: Sow your royal oats while eating your way up the social ladder.

Followed by a British must, tea (note Kate dripping in dollar bills).

One wouldn't dare attend a royal party without a manicure.

Back home late-night, hit the fridge for snacks.

What else? A Papa Johns Pizza with condiment faces.

Now you've eaten too much - thank God for your sick bags (for when you need to "throne up").

Bedtime! Class all the way.

Photos via newyorkmagazine.com

See more here.

Month 9 or Water Retention

2011-04-27T15:24:00.000-05:00

I may be a bit hormonal.

Yesterday while getting dressed in front of the mirror (horrendous idea, it should be permanently draped in a black cloth like a house in mourning until baby arrives), my maternity jeans suddenly got stuck . . . on my butt.

The things would not move. By the time I got them on (having vowed I would wear the pants or-else-god-help-this-fabric-the-makers-of-these-jeans-and-the-next-person-who-starts-with-me) I was in a full body sweat and more hostile than a sleep-deprived 2 year old.

My morning activity consisted of purchasing cupcakes for my next door neighbor's birthday from the previously-mentioned bakery. This turned into 2 cupcakes for her . . . and 6 for me.

No, I don't see the connection between these two events.

I'm blaming water retention.

Eco-Friendly Cleaners: Make at Home

2011-04-27T12:31:00.000-05:00

Here's a post at CasaSugar detailing eco-friendly cleaners you can whip up at home. Rug deodorizer, bleach alternative, mold combatant, wood floor polish, window and surface cleaners - even silver polish!

http://www.casasugar.com/Eco-Friendly-Homemade-Cleaning-Supplies-2977079?page=0,0,0#2

Countdown to Baby

2011-04-26T18:04:00.000-05:00

Baby is due May 27th and while all the major components are ready in the room, we still have a lot of finessing to do. This weekend I organized the closet that will store supplies and baby clothes. Ta da!

Yep, that is the golden retriever shag rug our landlord initially had throughout the entire house. Shocking it isn't more popular today.

John James Audubon

2011-04-26T15:27:00.000-05:00

In Una's former life, he was the director of one of the nation's leading art galleries for Early American maps, prints and paintings. John James Audubon's works, including his masterpiece Birds of America, were among many of the gallery's offerings.

Today marks the 226th anniversary of John James Audubon's birthday. Una and I have his "American Black Bear" and "Swift Fox" prints in our dining room (the bears are an homage to our alma mater's mascot). The details of his works are beautiful - check them out here.

Una's Surprise Party

2011-04-25T13:27:00.001-05:00

The dirty details:

The Invite, via PunchBowl.com:

The Venue:

Non-descript entrance ("International Exports, Ltd.") requires you to say the password or pay the price . . . a dance shown on televisions throughout the entire bar. Una, his sister Ashley and I were forced to mimic monkeys in the jungle. Which apparently the entire party thought was a chicken dance.

The spy-themed bar, a "safe house" for covert operatives.

James Bond and spy-related knick knacks, tricks and secret mirrors (one in the women's bathroom allows outsiders to view the lady primping), hideaways and passages abound throughout. One particularly popular sample is a naked sign of Burt Reynolds in the ladies room with a strategically placed metal heart over his goods, which has been rubbed soft. Every time someone touches the metal heart, a red light and buzzer goes off outside the door, alerting all nearby guests who the dirty-minded customer was.

The secret exit (below, top left), accessed through a 'phone booth' which requires a quarter to receive the passcode, which once typed into the phone's keypad, opens the secret basement door.

The Disguise:

Masks and mustaches for the guests to don for Una's arrival. He was stricken speechless! Houston very kindly agreed to model both.

The Food:

Amazingly delicious mini cupcakes from Milwaukee Cupcake Company. Am now trying to come up with a reason for weekly rationing of desserts. Possibly best cupcakes I have ever had.

Sample flavors: Chocolate with Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Frosting; Pink Champagne; Caramel Cupcake with Cream Cheese Walnut Frosting; Black and White Cupcake; Carrot Cake, Strawberry Shortcake . . . Yum.

The Second Surprise:

"Hail to the Chief" - a faux interrogation wherein employees dressed in all black drag Una down to the basement to an interrogation chair, the manager screams ridiculous questions at him through an intercom upstairs while party guests watch on another television screen, and then covert operative is raised through the bar's central floor in said chair, given a 20 ounce drink and shown a special video of his/her "White House Cabinet and Staff" . . . which consists of scantily-clad women filmed from the 70s and 80s for a guy, and the reverse for a woman.

Clearly someone is comfortable being the center of attention. He seemed genuinely surprised and told me over and over what a great time he had and how touched he was so many people came out. Success!

Final Outcome: The stress of planning a surprise party (the only one I've ever organized) may have resulted in this being my one and only attempt. Happy 30th, favorite!

Pregnant Bond, signing off.

Happy Holiday Weekend

2011-04-22T15:45:00.000-05:00

Whether you're celebrating a Passover Seder or the holiest of Christian holidays, Easter (or Earth Day is your religion of choice), I hope your weekend is filled with delicious food and family.

Since our families reside back East, Una and I will be partaking in the food festivities, which shall include a glass of red wine for moi (I allow myself one glass a week, now that I've hit the 3rd trimester - only 5 weeks left as of today!), stale peeps, chocolate and movie theater butter popcorn whilst viewing Water for Elephants with my friend Emmie on Sunday evening.

In the meantime, please enjoy some peeps in action:

I love these little buggers.

Tomorrow: Earth Day 2011

2011-04-21T15:42:00.000-05:00

And this year's theme is "A Billion Acts of Green!"

Want to pledge your own 'green' act? (Some sample pledges - swap out your light bulbs, eat more local food, get an energy audit.) Check out this link.

How about participate in a local event? Stop by here.

As of 3:40 PM Central Time today: 102, 005, 419 Acts of Green and counting.

Get in there!

Royal Wedding Countdown

2011-04-20T17:06:00.000-05:00

So my two friends and I will be meeting at 4:45 AM next Friday to watch the royal wedding festivities as they occur. In preparation, I watched the Lifetime movie "William & Kate," a tremendous achievement of cinematic . . . mediocrity.

I still cried. I blame the pregnancy hormones.

(Takeaway? Will and Kate are both so boring there is no story; hence the 3-minute mini-scenes throughout the 2 hour 'film.' For their sake, I consider this a good thing. Maybe interest will die down once they're married and Naughty Harry is the lone single royal wolf. Now his story would have been interesting.)

Lifetime is really getting after this royal wedding. Project Runway alums from all 8 seasons have designed wedding gowns for Kate (or Katherine, as the Palace likes to call her now). Here's a sampling :

By Nick Verreos, Season 2

By Vincent Libretti, Season 3

By Sweet P, Season 4

By Rami Kashou, Season 4

By Leanne Marshall, Season 5 Winner

By Louise Black, Season 6

By Shirin Askari, Season 6

By Ben Chmura, Season 7

By Mondo Guerra, Season 8

By Michael Costello, Season 8

Check out the full collection here!

Baby Room Scheme

2011-04-19T09:23:00.000-05:00

Here are my fabrics for the baby's room - grays and flaxes with shots of cream (since it's all over the house courtesy of the landlord) and white . . .

Wall color and trim swatches in the back. The paisley linen will be the headboard cover, the grey a bit of trim for the skirt of our glider, the grey-brown fretwork a new bedskirt, the oval print two large pillows on the bed, and the sea gull print by Thom Filicia (my favorite fabric in the room, hands down - would make adorable curtains, but we're on a budget here) is the baby's crib skirt and a bolster pillow on the bed.

And then I am done. I promise, Jo Nathan!

The Birds Are Chirping . . .

2011-04-18T13:03:00.001-05:00

And the snow is falling.

Just. Rude.

This weekend was awesome - I surprised Una by flying his sister out as an "early birthday present" (since his real birthday is right before the baby and the CFA test and I've been informed we're "doing nothing") . . . and then threw in a surprise party at a local spy bar on Saturday night! Pictures to come.

In the meantime, enjoy the April winter wonderland that is Milwaukee today. Ew.

P.S. This is my 500th post! Woah!

A Headboard, At Last!

2011-04-15T09:11:00.001-05:00

Ah, the headboard!

I had plans to finish it in September. Here we are at last, dear friend, almost 9 months later. You took nearly as long to grow as our dear babe. How it all went down . . .

Step 1: Inspiration photo: Hamish Bowles's headboard from his Paris apartment, featured in Elle Decor.

Next stop: DIY Central.

Tracing a similar shape

Using one side's cut template to trace the other side's guidelines. Would not do this again. Find an exact template online (so you can be sure your sides are even) or fold a large piece of paper in half at the start, draw away, and then cut symmetrical sides.

Finished plywood template (post jigsaw - boy, has that thing paid for itself).

Cover with foam and batting. I used 2-inch foam, but would likely try and find something thicker next time, based on the height of the headboard (four feet tall, so we can sit up against it to read!).

Ready for fabric!

This time I took care, since the fabric bolt was obviously not as wide as a bed, to center the pattern and align the additional pieces before sewing. Unlike the bed skirt.

Hell yeah! Check out that seam attaching two of the three pieces together - right down the center of the blue ikat pattern. Very proud of myself.

And the final product, complete with matching bed skirt. I'm exhausted.

Total cost? Around $150.00, including fabric (majority of cost), batting and materials.

Vote and Win $1,000!

2011-04-14T16:40:00.001-05:00

Trad Home and Duralee (fabrics) are hosting a contest for the best "New Traditionalist" designer!

Vote here for Sara Gilbane and be entered to win $1000.00!

I am dying over the lotus chandeliers above the dining table in the Gilbane-designed apartment.

Want. Now.

Moving Slow . . .

2011-04-14T15:04:00.001-05:00

This third trimester is killing me! Climbing the stairs is enough to make me change a shirt and follow it up with a 2 hour nap, while midnight to 3 AM is apparently my body's new social hour. I lay in bed with eyes wide open, mind racing, in the pitch dark. I know your body preps you for the change in sleep cycle, but this is just ridiculous. Even the baby's asleep in my belly! I'm not prepared, just hostile.

Fail, stomach.

In the meantime, here's an updated link to the apartment designed by Sara Gilbane, featured in the first issue of Trad Home (an online collaboration between Lonny and Traditional Home magazines). Yikes, did I post a few errors there.

I blame the lack of sleep.

The New Traditionals: Featuring Sara Gilbane

2011-04-12T16:00:00.001-05:00

My dear friend, interior designer Sara Gilbane, was featured in the latest issue of Lonny magazine as one of their "New Traditionals!"

Check out the amazing Tribeca apartment she designed here!

Christiane Celle for Target

2011-04-11T16:35:00.000-05:00

So excited! Christiane Celle (of Calypso fame) is launching a line for Target on May 1! And not only will this collection include dresses and shoes, etc., it has a home and accessories collection, too!

Cannot confirm or deny if the dress above is part of the collection, but I'm hoping . . .

I just spied their ads in the newest InStyle - keep an eye out for them. (Can't find them online anywhere.) And get over to the store on May 1 - this collection is one that is likely to look much nicer than it costs (thanks to the use of cottons and linens). I can't wait!

Wish . . . Buy

2011-04-09T08:57:00.001-05:00

I wish I could own this desk, a vintage Gabrielle Crespi piece owned by Aerin Lauder and passed down by her grandmother, Estee. (Yes, I've posted on it before. I still love it.)

Major piece of work blogger "Me, You and a Wiener" (dog, people) is a DIY master. Check out what she did with this Ikea desk . . .

The finished product . . .

She also DIYed that console (adding the Greek key molding and painting it) and covered the seat of that fab brass chair. Check out her website to see all the pieces she's done.

http://timmythewienerdog.blogspot.com/

Yowza.

Now that's more in my price range.

Beer Cake

2011-04-07T10:58:00.000-05:00

My littlest sister turns 23 today. I say littlest and yet she is inches taller then me and towers over the rest of the ladies in the family (sorry, Mom and Em).

Eliza graduates from her honors college in a little over a month, was just awarded entrance into Phi Beta Kappa (hell yeah, let me brag!) and is officially on her own after that. Yikes!

I remember when my mom would sit her, a little babe with blonde curls in her diaper, on the open dishwasher door as she fussed about the kitchen and the rest of us ate our snacks.

Man, I feel old. But enough about me - happy birthday, Sizoon! Live it up!

MKE Shower!

2011-04-05T10:33:00.000-05:00

Of course, Emmie and Sunny did not disappoint!

The baby shower was adorable, thoughtful, cute and lowkey. Eight of us assembled for snacks (including a plethora of candies), a celebrity baby game (horrible showing on my part), presents, cocktails and chit chat. It was perfect. Here are some photos from the afternoon:

Thank you, ladies! Countdown is officially on.

Woo hoo!

2011-04-04T08:03:00.000-05:00

Prince William Schmilliam. Move over Wils and Kate, there's a new wedding in town!

My sister Emily and her now-fiance James got engaged this past weekend in Montauk, New York!

No, none of these photos are from the actual proposal.

It is so exciting to have an event like this to look forward to. Now if only Bloomberry will behave itself at the wedding. No need to get the rumor mill going at age <1.

Congrats Em and Jaime!

A Holiday I Can Get Behind

2011-04-03T20:42:00.000-05:00

Today: the 119th anniversary of the first ice cream sundae.

Awesome.

An April Shower Brings a May Flower

2011-04-01T17:48:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow my dear friends Emmie and Sunny are throwing me a Milwaukee baby shower! Sunny was a professional wedding planner and Emmie has excellent taste, so I can't wait to see what they've come up with.

After tomorrow, countdown is on until our May flower blooms!

Groan.

I know. Bad, but really, it wrote itself.

I'll post pics next week. Have a wonderful weekend! My top priority? Trying to find one piece of clothing (preferably a dress) that fits and is not stretch pants. I have officially "popped."

She Ain't No April Fool

2011-04-01T09:39:00.001-05:00

Well, sometimes she can get a bit crazy, hence her Native American name, "Crazy Fur" (cuz she's crazy and wears the fur).

Happy birthday, H-town! 14 is a big milestone!

She is such a good girl. Bones galore for you!

(Don't worry, we won't tell the vet. Diet is off for today!)

Houston Bloom, Biological age: 14.

'Spirit' age: 3.

Intellectual age: Up for debate.

We love you, Noners.

Wis Biz Rocks

2011-04-01T09:21:00.001-05:00

Last night Una and I attended the Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame (oh yes, it exists) Annual Awards Night where his boss received the Distinguished Executive of the Year Award. No one really had any idea what was planned for the evening other than we knew it involved a lot of talking (each recipient had a video and a personal introduction, along with their own speech).

After the emcee spoke and before an 11-year-old boy sang solo to a crowd of 700, the sponsors introduced themselves and congratulated the award winners. One of these sponsors just happened to be AirTran Airways and the handsome, lively, just delightful young gentleman gave a great opener.

Wherein he announced that one person at each table would win a pair of roundtrip business class tickets. And that winner was . . . the person with the closest birthday to yesterday's date.

ME!

Hell yes! I never win anything! I think I flew business class once by accident years ago when my seat was changed. Bring it on, b*tches! Now, will it be California or the Caribbean, hmm . . .

Pretty sure Una and I will be attending any charity or awards event his boss is recognized at for the foreseeable future.

Wis Biz rocks.

Trivia Queen

2011-03-30T11:23:00.000-05:00

A few weeks back the Trivia Masters held a Quiz Bowl, complete with costume requirements and a Wii tournament. Our team* chose to dress as the Royal Family (assuming an easy win, given our Trivia Master is British).

Sadly, the whole thing was rigged and a bunch of overweight gentlemen in half shirts that spelled out "Quiz Bowl" won over our group's fantastic showing (which included the Queen, Prince Charles, Kate and Wils, the Duke, and a quite elegant Camilla Parker Bowles).

Karmically, first prize turned out to be a couple of crappy digital cameras ("one step up from a throwaway," per our Trivia Master). Today we realized all was not lost. The Queen has made an official appearance on the trivia home page!

*Jon and I were en route back from Mexico and sadly had to miss the festivities.

Small Victories

2011-03-30T08:10:00.000-05:00

My friend Emmie just returned from South Africa for work (rough job, right?), and showed up to trivia last night with heaven on Earth, my own personal manna, two glorious delicacies mixed in one - a food that I did not even know existed . . .

Wine gummies.

Okay, so there isn't really any wine in there, but my heart skipped a beat when I saw the box. Made this pregnant lady's evening.

Small victories over here.

Baby Room Redo

2011-03-28T08:53:00.000-05:00

Here is the color on the walls, and the glider and crib we put together this weekend. Phew!

The color is coming off very blue in this photo, though it is more of a grey in person. I plan to choose fabrics that bring out the grey.

A Jenny Lind-style crib and a budget-buy glider. I couldn't bring myself to spend $1000 on a glider that I didn't even love that much. This one was on sale for 1/3 of that cost. I plan to add trim to the bottom hem in a coordinating fabric. It isn't the prettiest, but on the plus side, it is ridiculously comfortable.

Since our baby room is also our guest room and is rather small in size, the bed has been relegated to the former closet and new "nook." Headboard and bedskirt will be redone (so excited to go shopping!).

We're thinking once the baby's in his or her room for good and the grandparents are gone, the bed will make it's way to the basement until we are in a new place. Meaning blow-up mattress styles for any future guests . . . with lots and lots of beer to make it more comfortable (or forgettable)!

Stage 1, complete.

Loving This

2011-03-25T15:54:00.000-05:00

Chair from West Elm. A modern, less expensive version of a timeless classic. Upholster that seat in a fun fabric, maybe make a low, curling lumbar cushion for the back and . . . adorable.

Photo via westelm.com

Earth Hour 2011

2011-03-25T11:28:00.000-05:00

Each year on the third Saturday in March millions across the globe take part in a stand against climate change. Earth Hour, started in Australia in 2007, asks each of us to turn the lights off in our home for just one hour. Last year 128 countries participated in the movement, making it the world's largest climate change initiative.

The time to switch off the lights, eat dinner in candlelight, watch a movie, or enjoy the stars (if you're somewhere warm, luckies)?

8:30 PM (local time), Saturday, March 26.

Set your phone alarms now.

Take 2

2011-03-25T10:29:00.000-05:00

The painter is back today to re-do the baby's room. Woo hoo!

Which means the rest of the weekend will be devoted to putting the crib and glider together, refinishing the chest of drawers/changing table (purchased off Craigslist for $90) and trying to cram a guest bed somewhere in there, too. I think I'll finally relax a bit once the major pieces are in place.

And then I get to go shopping for new headboard fabric, bed and crib linens and shade fabric! Yes!

Happy Birthday Is Over

2011-03-23T11:03:00.000-05:00

Had one of my routine visits to the doctor today wherein I was informed that over the past 2 weeks I gained . . . almost 6 POUNDS.

What?!

I blame Mexico, the resort's all-inclusive meal plan, those delicious fruity virgin mango margaritas, my inability to eat sushi and stretchy clothing. Just. Furious.

Hello 31 and chubby. Pass the iceberg lettuce.

My Husband, Rick Moranis

2011-03-22T11:48:00.002-05:00

This lovely photo came as part of a baby shower package and quickly turned into my favorite "gift" of the day. Una's sole request off the baby registry was the "carrier, so I can carry Baby around all day." Don't have to ask me twice. Done!

Our dear friends the Kiffers gave us the Ergo carrier, along with a personalized ad campaign, complete with a photoshopped and oversized Una-head onto model's body.

My response to seeing the photo: "Why is Rick Moranis modeling the Ergo?"

And then I realized it was my husband.*

I'm having it framed.

*Husband looks nothing like Rick Moranis in real life, which makes the pricelessness of this photo even greater.

Hola, New Decade

2011-03-22T10:35:00.002-05:00

Hope you have that champagne cocktail for me!

Compromise: Cake and Wine

2011-03-21T10:59:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is my 31st birthday. For the first time in my entire life, I have no desire to celebrate it (and this is saying a lot, coming from the person who preferred a minimum of week-long festivities in the past).

Courtesy of RealSimple.com

I propose a compromise - you go out and have a drink for me! Make it delicious, something you may not normally order (a champagne cocktail, perhaps?) and preferably shared with a good friend or two. Now that would make me happy.

Awesome Blog: Isabella & Max Rooms

2011-03-20T07:45:00.001-05:00

Meet Isabella and Max Rooms!

Just discovered this incredible DIY blog from a mom with fantastic taste and expert hands. Her DIY projects look professionally done, and she lays each one out with easy instructions (most of them through her posts for HGTV - she's the real deal).

Check out some of her handy creations:

Dropcloth Slipcovers for Dining Room Chairs

Stenciled Tray (great as a gift idea)

Embellished Roller Shades (I plan to do this with fabric for the baby's room)

Customizing Ready-Made Drapes

Fabric Lampshade

Upholstered and Nailhead -Trim Headboard

All photos via Isabella and Max Rooms

Turns out I had saved a photo of her son's bedroom from another blog in my design file. So pumped about this discovery!

DIY Pattern Curtains

2011-03-19T06:58:00.003-05:00

Courtesy of Casasugar . . .

Our Fifth House posted a very inexpensive way to switch up your curtains for the spring and summer seasons. Check it out!

I like to change the drapes in my family room with the seasons. I like something a bit heavier for the Fall and Winter, and then when Spring rolls around I like something a little lighter and brighter. I didn't want to spend a lot of money, but I was definitely itching for a change.

I decided to make my own drapes using paint drop cloths and a stencil that I already had. The drop cloths were $9.99 each at Lowes. I used stitch witchery to hem the sides, and then used an ikat stencil from here to create my own drapes. I also used a little stitch witchery to attach a ribbon to the edge to give them a nice finished look.

Textile Medium transforms acrylic craft paint into fabric paint. Why is this important?! Well, if you've ever bought actual fabric paint then you know it typically comes in very small bottles, and it's much more expensive than your regular old acrylic craft paint. In addition, fabric paint typically doesn't offer a wide range of colors to choose from in most craft stores. Regular acrylic craft paint comes in every imaginable color under the sun! Textile Medium gives you more options at a better price! The product itself runs between $4-$6 for an 8 oz. bottle.

Once the stenciling was done and the paint was dry, I used the iron to heat set the paint. Just iron the back side to set the paint and you're painted fabric will be completely washable.

For me, the drapes are too long and I would have placed the rod at the ceiling/above the clerestory window, but this is definitely an incredibly finished look for mere pennies! Especially for those of you in college or moving into your first apartment - an easy and inexpensive way to make a room look put-together (a patterned fabric alone will run you minimum $10 - $20/yard). Sizoon - get cracking!

Full post here!

Bloomberry's Providence Shower

2011-03-18T09:34:00.001-05:00

Some pictures at last! Part 2 - I'll post the rest of the onesies shortly. In the meantime, a snapshot recap of the day . . .

Festive flags decorated everything from food, flowers to games.

Pictures of me and Una as babies and little kids were scattered throughout. Above is one of Jon and his sister, Ashley. No doubt he's hysterically laughing at something he said.

Candy for the sweets maniac (moi).

The blank onesies hung across the fireplace and windows, ready for decoration. That's Una again on top of the mantle.

Baby photos and food. That pic to the right might be one of my all-time favorites. Una was the spitting image of a balding, elderly man for the first few weeks of his life.

Cousins

Checking out the "Nose Frida Snot Shot," the newest in baby de-snotting tools.

Mother- and sister-in-laws

Bloomberry's great grandmother, Meems, telling me about my uncle Charlie's birth (hence the serious expression). She's going to be 93 - looking fabulous!

One of the 'games' - guessing which baby photo matched which guest. As the sole attendee who knew every person in the room, one would assume I should have won. In fact, the two pictures that left me clueless were . . . my sister and sister in law.

I mean, really.

The youngest attendee, and better behaved than some other, much older guests. A-hem.

(Just kidding.)

My mom and sisters, hosts of the wonderful party.
You can see that I clearly won the tanning contest while in the Bahamas.

Thank you everyone who came!

Beer Shmeer

2011-03-17T12:43:00.002-05:00

I don't know about you, but it doesn't even feel like St. Patrick's Day out here. Aside from the 17 kids in green shirts at the elementary school where I volunteer, this day would have slipped by unnoticed like a redheaded stepchild, much like last week's Ash Wednesday (clearly I'm a good Catholic).

So far my St. Patrick's Day has involved a 3 AM wakeup call (thanks, third trimester), accidentally stabbing the palm of my hand with a vegetable knife, and a serious case of Unruly Hair.

What are you up to? Am presuming it's a lot more exciting than this rodeo. Ridiculous drunken photos and costume uploads encouraged in the comments section. Get after it, my leprechaun friends.

It's Cake O'Clock Somewhere

2011-03-16T13:41:00.001-05:00

Once upon a time, many months ago, I couldn't wait for the clock to strike 6:00 PM, ensuring a delicious, relaxing and non-judgmental glass of red wine. On a particularly bad day, noon could roll around and I'd be staring at my lonely wineglass wondering if it was available for an emergency clandestine meeting.

My, how things have changed.

Today I found myself looking at the clock at 11 AM and seriously pondering if it was too early for an ice cream sundae. (No, I hadn't eaten lunch. There's calcium-rich milk in ice cream, people.) Where once, in my twenties, I wondered what the appropriate time was for my first cocktail, I now find myself questioning at what hour in the morning cake is considered nutritious.

Photo via artisancakecompany.com

I've determined there is no such hour.

As the wise pregnancy adage goes, it's cake o'clock somewhere. Consider me armed, hungry and dangerous.

March/April Lonny!

2011-03-15T15:59:00.001-05:00

The newest issue of Lonny is out!

Get it here!

And want to know something extra awesome about this online magazine? Click on any picture or shop title and it will automatically take you the corresponding web page!

Copy Cat Chic Does It Again

2011-03-15T10:07:00.001-05:00

Great post today!

Safavieh Floating Medallion Rug (7'6 x 9'6) at Horchow on sale for $1086.00

Handmade Medallion Wool Rug (6' x 9') at Overstock for $281.99!

Update: Such a hit, the Overstock version is sold out. Looking for a rug? Overstock and Home Decorators Collection have great 'copycats' for whatever style you prefer!

Relief for Japan

2011-03-14T16:52:00.001-05:00

Donate today to help the millions of Japanese men, women and children who were affected by the staggering 8.9 earthquake and ensuing tsunami. Here are some photos depicting the landscape before and after the horrific destruction.

See more photos from MSNBC.com.

Visit redcross.org or text 'REDCROSS' to 90999 to donate $10 via text message. The Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief Fund through Global Giving is working to raise $1 million dollars to assist the local efforts - check them out and give here.

Every cent counts.

Wishful Shopping

2011-03-14T13:24:00.002-05:00

I just received a bunch of catalogs in the mail and man, with spring in the air, I am ready to shop (or "burn cash" as Una likes to call it)! Sadly, the impending baby gets all the fun (as if I'm buying new clothes when I just read I'm due to gain an additional 11 pounds in the next 10 weeks). If I could shop away, here are some beauties that caught my eye . . .

From Boden (www.bodenusa.com), the British retailer, a Tipped Sixties Jacket for $168.00 (check out the other, much better colors online - particularly the navy and parchment versions)

Jersey Blazer for $98.00

Terrazzo Tunic for $88.00

From The Land of Nod, the kid's decor brand, these adorable nautical-inspired pillows for $29 and $35

Framed art for a child's bathroom for $89 each

Oh, and Claws Von Brown the Bear

and Dee O. Gee the Dog (the ears are too much!), $46 each

From Ballard Designs, this Louis Square Back Chair in two fabrics (one for the back, one for the seat), perfect for a desk ($329.00)

5' x 8' Trellis Sisal Rug for $229.00

Atoll Mirror for $179.00 (now on sale for 20% off!)

Julian Apothecary Floor Lamp in Antique Brass for $99

Classic Avery Mirror on sale for $160.00

Voltaire Chest/Desk for $949.00 (what a beautiful way to hide a workspace)

And because I have a stool problem, why not these two? The Gathered Wheat Garden Ceramic Seat for $119.00

Or the Serena Bench in Distressed Gray Over White for $379.00

Clearly Rhode Island (the "Ocean State") will never leave me. Nautica obsession continues . . . Happy shopping!

A Century of International Women's Day

2011-03-08T08:11:00.001-06:00

Happy 100th!

International Women's Day (IWD), originally called International Working Women’s Day is marked on March 8 every year. It is a major day of global celebration of women. In different regions the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political and social achievements.

Events are scheduled to take place in more than 100 countries around the world to commemorate the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day. In the United States, President Barack Obama proclaimed March 2011 to be "Women's History Month", calling Americans to mark IWD by reflecting on "the extraordinary accomplishments of women" in shaping the country's history. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton launched the "100 Women Initiative: Empowering Women and Girls through International Exchanges", on the eve of IWD.

Here are some ways that countries across the world celebrate today:

In Poland, for instance, every IWD includes large feminist demonstrations in major cities. In Italy, to celebrate the day, men give yellow mimosas to women. Yellow mimosas and chocolate are also one of the most common March 8 presents in Russia and Albania. In many countries, such as In Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia,Hungary, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia, the custom of giving women flowers still prevails. Women also sometimes get gifts from their employers. Schoolchildren often bring gifts for their teachers, too. In countries like Portugal groups of women usually celebrate on the night of 8 March in "women-only" dinners and parties.

What can you do? How about . . .

Joining tens of thousands of people coming together on bridges all over the world -- from the Millennium Bridge in London, the Brooklyn Bridgein New York City, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, to the Grand Barriere Bridge joining Rwanda and Congo -- to show your support for women's causes and celebrate women's achievements.

Or donate to one of the incredible organizations that work to improve the lives of women worldwide. Support a cause you care about! Learn more about both opportunities here!

Text culled from Wikipedia and Google.com

Baby Shower!

2011-03-07T15:36:00.002-06:00

Got back late last night from Providence. A million things to catch up on - creative writing class, birth class tonight, errands, thank yous, prepping for our babymoon to Mexico on Wednesday.

Here's a taste of the baby shower, held at my aunt Allison's house on Saturday, which was wonderful. One of the 'games' they arranged was to have guests decorate onesies for the babe! Here's a sample of the amazing creations people made:

Yes, that is an "I Closed Wolski's" onesie, courtesy of my younger sister Eliza.

Can't wait to post the rest!

P.S. Very seriously considering bringing baby home in the tuxedo onesie. Day 1, black tie. How tremendous would that be?!

Blu Dot Swap Meet

2011-03-04T12:59:00.001-06:00

Not this is a creative opportunity.

Blu Dot, purveyor of modern furniture, has created an online swap meet. Have an interesting talent, craft or odd collection? Suggest a specific swap for one of their furniture pieces between now and March 11 on their online forum and then check daily to see if they've taken your bid (or "upped the ante")! Some accepted bids? An epic college kegger, popsicle stick motorcycle, Texas BBQ feast and a spork collection. I'm dead serious.

Seriously, your creepy closet full of ceramic doll faces just might get you one of these:

Get swapping!

A Shower for Bloomberry

2011-03-04T08:24:00.001-06:00

This weekend I'm in Providence, Rhode Island for a baby shower my mother and two sisters are throwing me and the growing little one! I'm so excited to see extended family, aunts and grandparents-to-be, though this is clearly proof that we are getting down to the wire.

And by wire I mean birth. Which also means . . . delivery. Which also means . . . a tiny, live baby returns home with us untrained newbies. Woah.

I think I'll focus on the delicious snacks instead. Bring on the sweets!

Royal Wedding Website

2011-03-02T18:15:00.000-06:00

Clearly Wills and Kate's impending wedding is a Very Big Deal (especially fashion-wise). My friends Sunny, Emmie and I have discussed a possible sleepover in order to watch the procession, lead-up festivities and ceremony that will occur before 5 AM central time on Friday, April 29th. We have yet to decide whether scones and English breakfast tea are most appropriate snacks, as well as possible dress code scenarios for our personal viewing party (English garden party? British equestrian chic?). I feel comfortable we have enough time to work these important concerns out.

In the meantime, feel free to check out the newly-released Royal Wedding website, with information about the engagement, procession, ceremony and reception.

http://www.officialroyalwedding2011.org/

Photo by Mario Testino

I seriously can't wait.

Electric Cars and Yoga Pain

2011-03-02T13:23:00.001-06:00

Yesterday Una and I had our weekly evening trivia game (which now has the added perk of our favorite bartender, Dan, bringing candy or baked good snacks for the pregnant lady! Next week's promise? Cookies.). But before we headed to Whiskey Bar, scene of the usual crime (whiskey for Una and a double water with a lime for me), I tried out a prenatal yoga class I had scored through Groupon.

Oh, and why do I do this to myself?

'Hey, prenatal yoga - you and your soft, cheesy music, easy stretches, and poses even an unborn baby can do, I'll barely drop a bead of sweat.'

Wrong.

Try ropes dangling me off the wall, wooden blocks, folding chairs and one pose wherein I stood on my head, legs against the wall, arms gripping the side rails of said metal chair. I uttered barely a word, snuck out as soon as class was over and vowed never to return. (Bonus to the evening? The 34-weeks-pregnant woman one mat over who housed me in every pose. And no, she was no 110-pound-wannabe yogi; woman was nearing the deuce mark and looked like baby was due yesterday.)

I picked Una up in a less than savory mood and we headed into trivia as my back slowly began to ache. Kicker to the evening? Una and I walking back to the Prius to discover someone - who will remain nameless - ahem, Una - had left the car on. Running. Interior and exterior lights on, engine plugging along. For 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Oh, the joys of an electric car.

Birth Class. Yes.

2011-03-01T09:00:00.003-06:00

Oh, boy. Last night Una and I had our first birthing class. No - it was not the infamous video session (in fact, sneaky teacher didn't say when we'd be watching it, so the two of us could conveniently be sick with food poisoning that evening). It was actually very helpful, especially when Instructor Amy informed the gentlemen/"partners" that their job was to do whatever we wanted, which may involve back massages or 'getting out of one's sight,' based on pain, amount of time between contractions, and level of extreme rage. I confirmed the importance of this statement with a highly arched eyebrow. Only to observe Una completely oblivious and finishing off a pack of fluorescent orange cheese and crackers from the hospital vending machine. I think I'll have to ask Instructor Amy to repeat this statement. Every class.

We ended with practice breathing, wherein I ignored the assignment and took a baby nap. I'm smack in the middle of the expectant mothers' due dates, with one cutting it a tad close (due in 7 weeks) and another preparing for her identical twin daughters in early July.

Holy Christmas.