broomstick me

Its me! On a broomstick! With stripey socks! Excited about Fall!
See more here.

cool mantel

This is a cool chalkboard fireplace mantel from Apartment Therapy. I would love it to write messages on and hang Christmas stockings from.

all about halloween

If Philipp would allow me, I would throw the biggest most clandestine Halloween party of all time. I already have our costumes picked out (never mind he cannot stand costumes of any kind):
I call Walter Sobchak. No doubt Philipp would want to be 'The Dude', so it would all work out. Who could be Donny? Caro could be 'Jesus'.

And some decorations:Check out this invite!

I just remembered one year Jessica and I went trick-or-treating the day after Halloween. That was really funny. Everyone was confused. Another year in high school we rolled Jessie up in tinfoil and laid her in the back of a truck so she would not tear and took her to houses trick-or-treating as a 'leftover'.

me from the other day

One photo I have been messing around with on photoshop. Its harder to get images of me as I am the one behind the lens the most these days.

i like it.

This is a photo from last weekend's flea market. He was actually making fun of himself having to "pose" for me all the time. But I like it. There were pretty shadows everywhere under the trees as we were eating. I'm still learning how to use light. I am not liking the way his ear is sort of too washed out. Anyone know a way to fix it on photoshop?

calendar photos

This post through Apartment Therapy is great. I love the idea of taking photos each month to see how much the baby changes throughout the 1st year. And this giant modern calendar makes it so cool.

24 before 25

Inspired by this post over on Simple Lovely, in collaboration with Doobleh-Vay, I decided to make my own list. I'd better get moving, as I'll be 25 in less than one month.

24 Things I want to Do Before I'm 25

1. Make an Autumn Harvest arrangement somewhere inside/outside the house
2. Get my newest sailor pants hemmed
3. Watch as they're being hemmed, so as to have some clue how it's done
4. Find a big button to replace the one gone missing from my Winter coat
5. Finish Season 11 of Project Runway on youtube
5. Go on a picnic with Philipp somewhere in the countryside or city
6. Take a lot of pumkin pictures from the farm up the road
7. Make Spiced Pumpkin Butter
8. Mail my grandmother some dried apples from the garden, as requested
9. Buy my best friend from childhood's wedding gift
10. Get an English library membership from the Expats club here in town
11. Buy the new striped shirt I've had my eye on
12. Get a copy of Amy Seeley's new cd
13. Get the invites to our birthday party designed and printed on nice, heavy paper
14. Carve several more jack-o-lanterns
15. Learn something new on Photoshop
16. Start in earnest on learning German
17. Try out the trendy Veg restaurant in town, Tibits
18. Make a pumpkin pie
19. Buy M.A.C Russian Red lipstick and
20. Wear it. A lot.
21. Go to the Autumn Market in town
22. Ride on the ferry boat from one side of the Rhine to the other
23. Take more pictures with my camera every day
24. This one's a secret

more projects

I literally spent the whole day in the kitchen baking while listening to Neil Young (today's album was Silver & Gold) with the doors open. The weather has been heavenly lately and its supposed to remain so all through the weekend. Here's a snippet of my various projects of the day. Click to enlarge the text.

chive biscuits

This morning I felt like something special for breakfast so I made some cheddar chive biscuits from this Williams Sonoma's Thanksgiving Entertaining book. With fresh chives from the garden and some special Alps cheese in lieu of cheddar, they were absolutely delicious. I love this cookbook so much that I'd really like to get its Christmas companion. Mmmm.

Unexpected flowers from Caro earlier in the week

Of course, I have a soft spot for this book because its where I found the recipe for the drinks we served after our wedding ceremony:

birthday invites

This is a really shoddy prototype of what our birthday invitations will look like. Again, one day I'll join the 21st century and start using a scanner.

We took these photos near the railway station the other day. At first I was bummed because the classic photo booths that give the photos in black and white vertical strips were replaced by these in a square format. But, looks like this is the best fit for our invites. Now I can only be sad from nostalgia.

Good times to come!

a walking man

click to enlarge

P's making the rounds for a job interview today. Hope he gets it. So proud of him, either way.

more stripes

Oooh. I can't get enough stripes. From H&M. In a darker color too.

lovely letterpress

I saw this letterpress calender on Stephmodo's blog. So sweet and who doesn't love nice letterpress?

shopkeeper

This is a nice use of a long wooden table in this store. I'd like to have one of these in our future home.

hello lucky

I'm in love with this retro-looking baby memory book from this cool letterpress company in San Francisco. While I am not really a scrapbook person, I'm really into journaling and memory keeping. I loved thumbing through my own baby book as a girl so its something I'd really like to do for my babies one day as a keepsake.
These illustrations look like they could have been taken straight from a 50's birth announcement, no?

a slice of time gone by...

When I saw this I really could not resist staging a follow-up shot. Ignore the horrible flash, this one's just for fun. One of these days I'll join the 21st century and start scanning old photos.P.S. Check out that awesome ladybug onesie.

pumpkin festival

Yesterday was the pumpkin festival up the road. Way too many people up there for it to be enjoyable for two trolls like us. I want to go up there sometime this week for a more prolonged pumpkin fondling session...without people. Here are a few takes from what I was able to get:

Rothaus panache

Just a memo: Feldschlosschen has officially been given the boot as the ultimate panache. The champion brand is now Rothaus from Germany. Really, their packaging reigns supreme.

gypsy

Gypsies don't settle.

They just explore in one place a little longer than usual.

image from Design*Sponge

Also: a cool interview from a whimsical entrepreneur here.

I believe in all your dreams, honey; big and small.

more goodies

Two more pictures of the market day loot:

market day rundown

Today was a busy day. So I was a happy girl. First, we (Philipp, Eveline & myself) went to Germany to the outdoor farmer's market. We could not have picked a better day to go. The weather was perfect for shopping outside today. The goods:And a happy mother & son:Then Eveline dropped us off into the city after Germany. We walked to the Rhine:
And made our way to the flea market, where I devoured one of these (cheese tortes made by the Devil himself):This is a very pleasant me after above mentioned cheese torte:
Finally, we made our way home where I was brave and took a sip of my husband's overly bitter pale ale while lounging in the hammock:

red house

The color of this beat up old house from down the road is so inspiring to me and completely its own (no re-touching on my part).

the shadow of the wind

I've only started reading this and already the story stays with me throughout the day. Thanks for the recommendation, Eveline.

grunge troll

From the garden. Creepy little grunge troll.

killer birds

Philipp and I had a nice walk today except for the bird that attacked him on the way home.

a missing guitar, colder weather

Wouldn't you know I'm craving that guitar, now that I had to leave it behind. Have not picked it up in so many months, but cold weather and beautiful things make me miss it.

rhine dock

Whaddya say? Wanna meet me at midnight here for coffee?

and one of me

more of him

into the woods

From the woods today during our walk.

paper lanterns

I love Japanese paper lanterns. I know they are used in nearly every wedding/celebration magazine spread, but I cannot get enough of them.

from our wedding...10.6.07

harvest party

from Martha Stewart

from this inspirational website

These shots really make me want to throw a Harvest party. Oooh, I foresee an obsession coming on...you have been warned.

No Harvest party could be complete without this soundtrack:

yellow beauty

This beautiful shot reminds me that I want to take photos up the hill where all the yellow weeds are growing before they're gone. From Flora and Henri.

necklace roundup

This is such a sweet little necklace. Available on Etsy.I love the copper color of this one and the leaves, of course. Available on Etsy.I like the double chain look of this one, plus all the little trinkets. Available on Etsy.I love how delicate this one is. Available on Etsy.Hammered metal, a bird and a peony? Perfection. Available on Etsy.

peonies on etsy

These are two dream like prints from this etsy shop. The first reminds me why I really want those stacking lotus bowls.

lacy dress

This is probably one of the most beautiful wedding gowns I've ever seen. I've been spending a lot of time on Peonies and Polaroids blog, can you tell? More pictures here.

briefly, on why bunnies are the only acceptable pet

from Peonies and Polaroids

I am unabashedly not an animal person.

Don't get me wrong, I don't go around choking kittens or anything like that and I think a litter of puppies is just as precious as the next girl, but I really have no desire to personally own a dog, cat, pet tarantula, etc.

However, we as kids had a few bunnies over the years and they were absolutely the highlight of my existence until they either died of heat stroke, broke their leg and had to be shot, or (wink*wink) wandered off into the forest, etc. etc.

I would definitely find it hard to say "no" to a bunny request. Especially to one with floppy ears.

Just stay outside, mind you.

redheads

Wonder what the odds are of the Mister & me creating a redhead? Philipp has a sort of auburn beard if grown out (from his Viking blood, or so he tells me) and I have some auburn in the Summer. This picture from Thread designs shows 5 gorgeous redheads.

more peony love

More gorgeous peony pictures to share. This time from this dreamy blog, Peonies and Polaroids.

interio bed

I'm really digging this bed from the Swiss shop, Interio.

about jewelry

Our rings. Philipp's is inscribed with an adapted Neil Young lyric, "Long may we run..."

Being in a house with P's mom who has quite a good bit of eclectic accessories, its hard not to consider jewelry a little more than I usually do.

I really like it on other people but I have a real problem with picking things out for myself. It would be best if I could go through life and when someone passed who's necklace or earrings I liked, a set would magically appear for me also. I'm like this with bags too. I go into a store, get overwhelmed with the choices and either buy nothing or end up with a purse that I would probably like less if I saw it on the street on someone else. Weird.

I only own 2 pieces of real jewelry; my wedding set and some pearl drop earrings I wore the day of. However, I really do have an eye for big, chunky statement jewelry. Something like an intricate bulky red necklace worn with a unique neckline. That little something that gives a pop of color to an otherwise sleek silhouette. Being black's number one fan, I can see how colorful jewelry could really liven me up!If I were to be brave and start acquiring more jewelry, perhaps this is what I would dangle them from. Or maybe this one:

two peas in a pod

+
=

better known as World Domination

chunky bunz

Quite possibly the cutest set of pictures taken of any chubby baby. Ever.

These photos make me so look forward to the new time in my life where I can hold a little someone who looks a bit like him. Imagine, my own little Mini-P to tote around town. Its incredible to think of.

camera fun

Just some shots while messing around with the camera (and Eveline's necklace from the kitchen. and Eveline's red lipstick.)

Caro's Birthday

Last night Philipp's cousin Caro celebrated her 27th birthday. We all went into the city here for a dinner party. This was an especially special evening for me, as it was my 1st time meeting the other Trummers (and a Meier!). We made Caro a special birthday basket full of homemade jam, red wine, figs, chocolates and fruit. She's vegan so we helped her with the chocolate ; ) By the end of the night, I was so full & very happy.

jar of thoughts

image from inchmark

This is a wonderful idea for capturing all the thoughts and sayings little ones bring. So often I wish I had captured more of my younger brothers' babyhood and early childhood. This seems like the perfect way. Sigh. Live and learn. Maybe I'll be able to commit to this for my little ones.

small kitchen

I like the nice little layout of this small kitchen renovation. Before and after photos on the link. I especially like the deep sink.

cobalt blue

Art from this person reminds me of the perfect shade of blue. I love this deep denim/cobalt color. The Gap often times features this color in clothing and as I have deep blue eyes, it really is my shade.

loooloo textiles

These are some very different pillows. I love the aesthetics of all the different twists and knots. By Loooloo.

ikea hack

This makes a cool use of an IKEA kitchen cart for the bathroom. I don't like the back splash tiling, but I love the concept & the above basin sinks! Find details here.

I'm a little teapot.

Okay. Mid morning-completely gone.

I've been lost in this delightful website from the children's boutique & party room, "I'm a little teapot". First off, Philipp cannot survive a week without hearing and watching my rendition of this childhood song favorite. Secondly, its run by two sisters (sniffle, sniffle). Thirdly, it involves hosted tea parties and everything fanciful for little girls. Thats it. I am moving back to California. To whom do I send my resume? : )

The sisters/ owners

The party room

Check it out for yourself:

I'm a Little Teapot

FYI: The belly casting of the previous post is also done by one of the owners.

its a done deal.

Okay, after seeing this I have decided that my preggie belly will definitely be made into a belly cast. I always thought the idea was interesting but never knew what I would do with this gigantic plaster cast of an enormous belly. Door stopper? Fruit basket? Bread basket? Haha.

But, after seeing this really lovely decorated one from this talented lady, my mind is clear:

Pot Belly Casts

Ashley Radzat

707)570-9218

info@potbellycasts.com

I'd leave mine white probably but I love the branches and tiny baby photo in the middle. Such a great idea for a wall hanging in a baby nursery.

recycled bird houses

These are too adorable! They're little bird houses constructed of recycled materials. I think this particular one is felt? From the French ship, Serendipity. I'll take three. Yes, thank you.

fire leaves

So looking forward to these colored leaves. Print found on etsy.

home and the heart

These notecards capture what I so often feel. Especially since finding Philipp, we both agree that we are each others' home, wherever that may be.

things that might lead one to wal-mart

Here are a few paper crafts that I would not mind having to decorate a party with. Martha Stewart crafts are in Wal-Mart now. Most of them are not my style, but I like these colorful tissue paper craft sets, especially the peony bouquet above.

first days in basel.

My new baby pumpkins and Ricola (how cliche!) for the sore throat I've got

Well, we finally arrived in Basel on Friday after two ridiculous flights. I was a really lovely shade of green throughout both of them and constantly had the urge to:
a) barf
b) run up and down the aisles screaming, "release me!!"
c) open the emergency door (just for fun)
****
All of our luggage arrived; which must be because of my presence, as Philipp always has luggage mutilation issues whenever he travels solo. I was a bit dissapointed to not get a Swiss stamp in my passport since I look lame-o with no stamps in my fresh new 'married name' passport. For bragging purposes, I will say that my last one had to have pages added to it for visas & stamps. So, yeah, really I am cool.
****
The first night we got here, I drooled myself into oblivion for 12 straight hours after being up for 30. Mental note to self: never, ever book an evening flight with the hopes of sleeping. Philipp woke up at 3 AM and could not sleep from the jet lag. We switched places the next night, with him snoozing soundly and me up at 3.
****
Eveline made us a zopf braided bread for Sunday breakfast, which was wonderful as always.

Eveline & Jo's backyard

We four (Eveline, Johannes, Philipp & myself) took a walk up in the forest/cleared path by their house and found the BEST display of pumpkins for sale at this family farm. Oh, my gosh. I have not documented about my complete & utter pumpkin fetish, but this was Kristin Heaven. Philipp and I are going there tommorow again, so I will take some pictures. I just went around each aisle, rubbing and squeezing, ooohing and aaahing all these delightful little pumpkins. Philipp even bought me two; one is Phippi's, one is mine.

****The Mister

Its been so good to see Philipp floating around with a smile on his face. He is happy to be back home.
****
We both are. Life is good.

From today's lunch: salad with P's famous dressing, sun-dried tomato, tilsiter cheese and dried beef crostinis.

floating stairs

These stairs are from a really interesting condo tour from Denmark. I love when stairwells are open like that.

fun cupcakes

photo. Apartment Therapy

These cocktail umbrella cupcakes remind me of when Mama & Daddy would send over a Shirley Temple to the kids' table at the beach cafe on summer vacations. Fancy glass, cocktail umbrella and a maraschino cherry? I thought I was the coolest.

leaving on a jet plane.

My bags are (almost) packed. Keeping me occupied on the long flight to Zurich:

This lunatic:
These current magazines:

This yummy blend of almonds, dried cranberries, dark chocolate squares and pumpkin seeds:
Philipp says he is unlike Americans, in that he does not require food for every endeavor. We'll see who'll be dipping in my snack bag before the 1st movie even rolls...

the book of lost things

For a long while I've been reading nothing but non-fiction. My brain cannot concentrate enough to focus on something with a plot line. This is atypical of me, as usually novels are the only thing I read unless some non-fiction really strikes me or I get obsessed with a topic. So I'll recommend a book I read before this happened. The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly.
This says it better than what I can summon up the synopsis skills for. From Amazon:

Thriller writer Connolly (Every Dead Thing) turns from criminal fears to primal fears in this enchanting novel about a 12-year-old English boy, David, who is thrust into a realm where eternal stories and fairy tales assume an often gruesome reality. Books are the magic that speak to David, whose mother has died at the start of WWII after a long debilitating illness. His father remarries, and soon his stepmother is pregnant with yet another interloper who will threaten David's place in his father's life. When a portal to another world opens in time-honored fashion, David enters a land of beasts and monsters where he must undertake a quest if he is to earn his way back out. Connolly echoes many great fairy tales and legends (Little Red Riding Hood, Roland, Hansel and Gretel), but cleverly twists them to his own purposes. Despite horrific elements, this tale is never truly frightening, but is consistently entertaining as David learns lessons of bravery, loyalty and honor that all of us should learn.

what i'm listening to now

Waking up to a lovely piano piece this morning by Amy Seeley.
What a beautiful picture (and album cover). I love the blue antique-like shirt she is wearing too.

punkin

I love Amazon. You can find nearly anything on there. I had this vague memory of the character from one of my favorite books growing up and was able to find it. The reason I even thought of this book was because Philipp and I were talking about Fall & Halloween. I remembered wanting to be this character for Halloween in Kindergarten. I realized why Mama told me "no"--she's topless! Haha! Great.

pumpkinhead

Bring on Fall! This beer from the Shipyard Brewing Co. in Portland, Maine has become my new favorite.Brewed with nutmeg and cinnamon, its so Fall and so delicious. And it is September 1st now. Wooohoo!This by the way, is my new pumpkin carriage being made for me. To you know, drink my Shipyard Pumpkinhead Ale in.