Friday Five – New Years Edition

I know, seeing three posts in a week is sheer madness! I'm trying to start this New Year out right by updating a bit more often-- and I think that is the perfect way to introduce this week's Friday Five.

1. Buzzfeed’s 45 Most Powerful Photos of 2011

Through my social media gatherings, I came across Buzzfeed’s 45 Most Powerful Photos of 2011, and I have to say… it about knocked my socks off. And by that I mean it almost had me in tears. It’s amazing to think of how many astoundingly dramatic events happened in the year past, and how these events have come to shape our world, and the years to come. Even though we’ve read the news headlines, it’s amazing to see a visual representation, and artistically emotional ones at that—from the devastation that took place in Japan and areas of the US, to the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell. It runs the gamut of happy and absolutely heartbreaking, and I would highly recommend giving them a look.

photo via re-nest

2. Starbucks’ new store… made of shipping containers!

I have a very love-hate relationship with Starbucks. On one hand, I feel they are a true threat to local coffee houses all over the globe… on the other hand, they are the most reliable place to find a good latte downtown after 2:00pm when everything seems to close. Also, it’s kind of hard to not love the new store they opened in Washington state this week—which is made of shipping containers. Anyone that knows my urban design and creative architectural tastes knows that I have a big place in my heart for any project that combines these affordable, sustainable boxes into a building… and I wholeheartedly support (and applaud) Starbucks’ new store.

3. IKEA

Continuing on with my theme of mega-corporations, IKEA wins the third spot in this week’s Friday Five. Why? Two reasons: I happened to visit the Pittsburgh location and had a grand old time putting together my coat rack as if I was building a LEGO house. A few other fantastic accessories kept me in retail (and apartment) bliss. Also, I read over the last couple of weeks that a subsidiary of the IKEA group is actually building an entire neighborhood, complete with its own IKEA houses, in London. There is definitely much critique to be given to the style and even concept of this corporation establishing a neighborhood… but I’m also curious to see what the outcomes will be. Clearly not any one style of housing or neighborhood can be standardized to fit all areas, but this could do great things for affordable housing if approached in the right manner. Only time will tell…

4. The Amazon Kindle

Though I posted earlier this week a tutorial on making your own Kindle cover, I didn’t really talk much about the device itself… and I feel it is deserving of some serious praise. I had contemplated purchasing one for many, many months, and happened to get one for Christmas. Had I spent the whopping $80 for it, I would have been absolutely pleased still. It’s light, easy to use (even for a tech idiot like myself), and has a few different functions I wasn’t even aware of prior to getting it—such as being able to highlight particular passages, which are then compiled into one place! Apparently you can add notes as well, but I haven’t gotten quite that far in my technological capacities yet. Baby steps! Still, I plan on getting my textbooks this semester via Kindle because it will be far easier to not have to cart around those books with me downtown, and you can read them online as well!

5. Betterness: Economics for Humans by Umair Hague

The perfect segue, my last item on this week’s list is actually the first book that I purchased for my Kindle. I purchased it after reading a review covering the book at Urban Times. After the very first page I knew it was a great decision. For a whole $2.69, I got Betterness: Economics for Humans delivered to my device instantly, and jumped straight into a critique of the modern, industrial-age business paradigm. I finished a few days later with great energy in pursuing specifically laid out steps toward a healthier, well-rounded, and I dare say better idea of how our economy should be conceptualized and run. It’s a compelling read, and it’s written by an economist who is also a columnist for the Harvard Business Review… so I’m fairly certain he knows what the hell he’s talking about. He takes every idea I’ve ever had about what’s wrong with the economy (we’ll still give him credit for it), and articulates it poignantly, taking it about three levels beyond to something that is cohesive and in many ways actionable. I’m struck and smitten. Great read. You should really check it out.

What better way to show my love for Ohio...

...than to tattoo it on my body? Happy New Year, everyone! Stay committed, stay (or get) in love with your place :)

Speaking to the New Year’s Resolution

I have to admit, I’m one of those people that absolutely loves the beginning of the year. Once my hangover clears, I’m smooth sailing to get away from the hectic craziness of the holidays and back into not only my routine, but overdrive. I’ve always been a (and am apparently the only) fan of Mondays and the first of the month. New Year’s Day is for me the ultimate feeling of a “fresh start.” I try my best to remain self-reflective and goal oriented all of the time, but something about this time of year really invigorates me and gets the psychological juices pumping. Some may say it’s all artificial, instilled in us by the workout retail industry or whatever, but I say I’ll take it. If something in the world is going to motivate my ass, I’m not complaining.

That said, I’m very happy to meet 2012 with a great attitude and optimism. This year past was a particularly trying one, and though I left it with many an accomplishment to speak of, I have to say it was not kicked out with any hint of regret or hesitation. My goals certainly fell short a bit for 2011 (I never did write a book or brew a batch of beer), but the important ones stuck (graduating college, starting grad school, etc). I’ve read in countless places that one of the best ways to stick by your goals is to tell someone about them, so rather than just keeping my list tucked away in my journal, I figured I would share it with you faithful readers (whoever you are).

1. Record a CD
2. Get a tattoo
3. Pay off my credit cards
4. Donate to a different cause every month
5. Find a sweet internship for the summertime
6. Finish my 2012 Reading List
7. Establish my home yoga practice
8. Attempt to attend 1 yoga class per week
9. Organize a benefit show
10. Do at least one art project every month
11. See a play or musical
12. See the orchestra play
13. Visit the art museum
14. Visit the history museum
15. Cut pop out of my diet
16. Cut fast food out of my diet
17. Put $1,000 into my savings account
18. Reconnect/maintain close relationships with my girlfriends
19. Visit my Kimmy in Texas
20. Cut down on the amount of meat/dairy products in my diet
21. Create a music video
22. Continue to give back to the NEO region
23. Learn to speak a foreign language conversationally

It looks a bit overwhelming, but I’m determined to accomplish everything on this list in 2012. I started this week by investing a little into the area I do yoga in my kitchen, working out, finding a ton of great resources for healthy meal planning, and practicing some German. Tomorrow I’ll be getting my first tattoo! So very excited. Can’t wait to show you all.

What are your goals for the New Year?

How To: Make your Own Kindle Cover

This Christmas I happened to snag an Amazon Kindle... a purchase that I've been pondering for quite some time now, but hadn't quite committed to. I was thrilled with it once it was in hand, however, and decided that protecting my new toy was a must (I've seen the fate of electronics that go in and out of my purse without protective covering, after all). After looking online, however, I realized that I don't want to shell out $30 for a cover... and what a great crafting project to take on! I looked throughout the mighty interwebz, and pulled together a Pinterest board of DIY Kindle cases and sleeves, and crafted one inspired by a few of the ones I saw. The directions I'm going to give you are far from precise, but will get you where you need to go if you have even the slightest bit of sewing knowledge. I don't really, you know, measure things... so it can be a little haphazard, but as you can see the results were good! :) Enjoy!

I used 3 different types of fabric for my cover, and they were all scraps that I had laying around. The solid brown is a pair of khaki pants that I cut off to make shorts (sustainable options hello!), and the polka dotted fabric was leftover from a prior project. The third fabric was a quarter I bought to use on my dish towels... that I never used on my dish towels.

You basically start by cutting two pieces, that will serve as the inside and outside of the cover. It should be an appropriate length to wrap around your Kindle, roughly about 3 times the width of it. Your fabric should be slightly taller than the Kindle itself.

Once you have the main pieces cut, you can create the ruffles and the holding pieces out of the third type of fabric. I created the ruffles myself, and cut them two different sizes to stack on one another. To Create a ruffle, cut a strip of fabric, fold it in half and iron it, then fold the ends under and iron them like shown below:

Once you have it all ironed out, then sew down the side with the tucked in flaps to seal it. I also sewed down the other side to make it uniform (mostly because I used darker thread that was really visible). Once both sides are sewn, use a long stitch length and do one strip directly down the middle, then pull on one piece of the thread on one end and bunch it up to make the ruffle. Do that for both strips.

Once you have your ruffles made, stack them and pin them on the outward facing fabric, on the right side. As you can see in the photo, I had my Kindle inside to get a good idea of where I wanted it to sit inside the case, and where the ruffles should be situated. This is pretty much how I operate with these sorts of things (who actually measures stuff??)... After it's pinned, sew one strip overlapping the middle line and cut off the edges of the ruffle so they only extend about a half an inch past the main fabric.

Be sure to practice proper pet safety in all this... Maeby really likes to try and "help" while I'm sewing. By that I mean she lays right where I'm trying to work. But any time my needle is actually going, I make sure she's not jumping up on the table.

The holding pieces are also not precise at all. I folded a piece of fabric in half and cut it a bit wider than the Kindle. I folded the edges under to make it almost exactly the width of the Kindle. Then I pinned it into place at about the right places so it didn't cover the screen. After that I sewed the sides so that it could slide in and out, but the bottom isn't sewn.

Once the ruffles and holding pieces are sewn on, put the two main fabric pieces together wrong sides together and pin, leaving the end near the ruffles open. Sew the 3 sides together and turn inside out, then iron the edges to make them look a bit crisper.

At this point your case will look as follows:

I got kind of lazy about taking photos at this point, but the rest of the work is pretty simple. I didn't have any batting, but wanted to put a little padding inside the case, so I took an old towel and cut it just smaller than the case itself- leaving it just an inch or so short. I put it inside the case and got it situated and smooth, then sewed in a few different places to secure the towel and make sure it doesn't shift around inside the sleeve. If you look in the photo below, you can see where I put some of that stitching. The only thing you need to do after securing that piece is close off the end. I folded the end back to expose the inside fabric, and folded a ribbon into it that stuck out on either end (which will wrap to the back to tie closed). Make sure the ribbon is secure and you are good to go!

This is what the back looks like when everything is said and done:

There you have it! An incredibly easy, terribly inexpensive (or free) cover for your beloved Kindle. I liked this particular way of designing it because I can just fold the sides behind the Kindle and therefore don't have to take it out of the cover to use it. It definitely has that "DIY" look on the inside, but I'm sure with a bit more planning I could have made it look a bit less messy (that random stitching on the side, for instance, was a failed attempt at adding a piece of elastic to utilize buttons... the ribbon was easier and I think a better choice in the long run).

Either way, I hope you all enjoyed the pseudo-tutorial, and I hope to have more crafting projects to show for myself in 2012. Everyone have a safe and enjoyable New Year!

A Little Inspiration

In a bit of a funk this weekend, I received some uplifting quotes from a friend of mine. I like to keep some more inspirational ones on hand to give me a little pick-me-up from time to time, so I figured I would share some with you all if you're in need of a little oomph in the stress and lull of the holiday season. The one above is one I've been saying since my days of basic training (oh the things you say to get yourself through), and will be just as applicable through my training to get in shape for an indoor soccer season... Below is a link to a board I've been accumulating on Pinterest. Enjoy!

Tara's Tell.ing. Pinterest Board

In Defense of Northeast Ohio

This week I happened to encounter through my news channels (read: Twitter) a couple of articles beaming praise for Akron, and I wanted to share them... because I really feel there is great value in my home city, and I love hearing good news regarding the state of its economy.

On December 2, Atlantic Cities published a piece about building community around job creation in the downtown area. I don't think this is revolutionary thinking necessarily, but that area around University of Akron's campus certainly needs some love and University Park Alliance is doing some really great stuff to make that area a true neighborhood and improve the quality of living within the area-- it's great work and certainly worthy of praise.

Just a couple of days ago on December 7, the Fiscal Times included Akron in their list of the Ten Best Cities to Find a Job. I have to say that I was surprised to see our city at #2 on the list... but happy nonetheless. I try to be fairly skeptical about these silly lists, but there is obviously much truth in many of them and it's nice to see Akron part of one that is on the more optimistic and positive side of the spectrum-- unlike Cleveland, which topped Forbes' 2010 list of the nation's most miserable cities.

As I recall, neither Cleveland or Akron fared well on that list. I do find it kind of interesting, though, to think about these exercises. I grew up and spent the majority of my life in Akron. I live in the Greater Cleveland area now. If Cleveland is the most miserable city in America, I would hardly be able to tell. I've found success in this city without any strings or connections, great investment in social capital. The cost of living is fairly low and there is a plethora of things to do- amazing restaurants, free cultural activities, and it's relatively easy to get around (even by public transit if you live in the right areas).

I've visited other cities that would probably not grace that list, and I've never thought to myself, "You know, self, these cities seem far less miserable than Akron or Cleveland." San Diego has gorgeous weather, Chicago has a bustling (and almost overwhelming) nightlife, and Toronto is likely the cleanest major city I've visited in all of the North American continent. None of those cities have the atmosphere, raw authenticity, or genuine nature of the Rust Belt, however. Perhaps they don't share in its devastation, either... but even with the blight, poverty, and rough economic status, I wouldn't on first glance put any of those cities far above Akron or Cleveland as "less miserable" (actually, I was told I could not even think of gracing the streets of Southern Chicago in broad daylight, despite my desire to see the more stressed areas of the city).

The fact of the matter is that every city has its problems- the sunbelt promotes sprawl and lack of social connectivity, hotspots like Cali and NYC experience a completely different cost of living, and many of the communities throughout the U.S. are devoid of any amount of diversity (while some may consider this an advantage, I would argue vehemently that it is a serious and tragic shortcoming). No matter where you are, residents will find something to complain about. No place is perfect.

Where I think this sort of list would matter is in terms of a city's at-risk and low-income residents. How does your city take care of its disadvantaged population? It is certainly easier to be homeless in some areas than others. It is easier to live on disability and social security in some cities than others. It is certainly easier to be a single, working mother in some places than others. Though I hear people of my generation bitching about how awful Akron is because the jobs are scarce (apparently not as scarce as we think), opportunities do not abound, and it may not be growing or thriving like other larger ones-- I can't say any of those people (myself included) are really in a position to call any quality of life they've experienced as a result of the city "miserable." I would argue that a family struggling to get their kids a solid (fair) education while trying to subsist on two measly minimum wage incomes, worried that a bullet may accidentally graze their kids while they are sleeping because gunfights are going on outside have a much better understanding of what "miserable" really means.

Of course every person's situation is different and people all have their issues... and these lists do include some of these more systemic parameters (unemployment, violent crime, etc) - but I think more times than not, people look at their own city's position on the list, become either proud, enraged, or defeated - and only base their assessment of that call on their own, limited experiences. But I also feel that the misery factor of a city would be far better measured by access to public amenities or green space than it would the performance of pro sports teams. Perhaps in this more socially-oriented perspective Akron and Cleveland are still towards the top of the list, but I also feel like it would be a list that would better serve to improve the cities that are under analysis.

As far as these silly lists are concerned now, I'd like to invite anyone with any amount of privilege to take a look around at the assets all throughout NEO. They are everywhere, and they need to be leveraged. Part of our problem is that we get so bogged down in our despair. We've become fatigued and exhausted. There is so much energy brimming in pockets all around us, however, and if we approach it properly it could potentially gain even more speed. I don't need Forbes to put Cleveland at the top of a list to know that change needs to happen. I need a collection of innovative and excited individuals to take pride in the identity of our region and tell me how this can happen and where to begin.

I think it all starts with an appreciation. Then investment. Not necessarily a financial investment (though these cities certainly need that as well), but an emotional investment. If Browns fans are still psychologically convincing themselves that the team is going to win "this time," why not champion the city itself and believe in something they can really be a part of? According to Forbes, our whole city, region is a "Factory of Sadness." The difference is that we have everything we need to turn it around- if we can bring ourselves to stop bitching and recognize that we have amazing things to offer and experience.

Miserable, say you? Fine. Every city has its problems. But when are you going to start taking responsibility for your part in ours? And what are you going to do about it?

Tara on the soapbox, signing out.

***

photo via Victoria-Weather

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Cleveland Planning Events

I just wanted to share with you all a couple of Cleveland Planning-related events coming up in the next week. I'll be attending and you should too!

Cleveland APA Zoning Workshop

Friday, November 18. 7:30am-5:00pm

LaCentre Conference and Banquet Facility

25777 Detroit Rd.

Westlake, Ohio 44145

The workshop is $125, but if you volunteer you get in FREE. You can register for the workshop (to volunteer just register as a volunteer) here: http://www.regonline.com/Register/Checkin.aspx?EventID=1001663

Brainstorming Brunch Hosted by Saving Cities

Saturday, November 19. 11:00am-1:00pm

Wexler's Tavern and Eatery

4555 State Rd.

Cleveland, Ohio 44109

"An open brunch event for all passionate Clevelanders to come and share ideas, meet new folks, and enjoy the delicious local food. No agendas, no specific topics; just a good time and really cool people hanging out on a Saturday morning." To learn more about the meeting, visit the event page on Facebook.

See you all there!

How Do We See Cleveland?

I just began writing for a lovely publication by the name of the Urban Times, and my first piece explored how imagery is utilized and received within the Rust Belt. It features some photography of mine captured in the City of East Cleveland-- and continues a dialogue started at an event I attended hosted by Saving Cities and facilitated by Peter Kageyama (author of for the Love of Cities) focused on energizing cities like Cleveland, and what we can do to move citizens to action and get invested in place. Our discussion quickly went to the semantics used in the Rust Belt, and how the names of our organizations and the images we present help to expose the realities and nature of our region, or to reinforce a stigma that may be counterproductive to future revitalization.

So what's your take? Give the piece a read HERE and let me know how you feel. What do you want the message of NEO to speak?

Happy Friday (Cleaning Day)!

I've been relatively MIA recently, due to a crazy jump in schoolwork and other excitement. I hope you are all having a lovely day and have fantastic weekend plans in line! I am anticipating a love-ly weekend myself. I will leave you with a cartoon I drew accurately illustrating what my cat does every time I clean the litter box. No really, every time:

Hey kids, it's September...

... so find a beautiful place, and read in it.

[Lakewood Park. My new fave homework spot/urban sanctuary]

Rediscovering Public Transit

I have been a car owner for roughly a year now, and it still surprises me how much I drive—considering I hadn’t been a car owner for roughly 5-6 years prior to that. Living in Lakewood, it is considerably easy for me to get to the necessities: I have an ALDI minutes from my apartment, a slew of bars and restaurants are but a few blocks away, the library and a thriving main business corridor is a 10-20 minute bicycle ride away. Downtown, though still considerably close to Lakewood (particularly because I live on the East side of the city, bordering Cleveland proper), is a bit of a vehicular inconvenience.

I am one of those folks that are considered to be “directionally challenged"—which is just a nice way of saying I get lost pretty much anywhere I orient my car. Even with the pleasant Australian woman directing me from the tiny navigational box I keep with me everywhere I go, I still seem to lose my way (which she promptly points out as she begins “recalculating.” You have no idea how much profanity has been flung at her nonexistent presence). Further, I tend to get a bit flustered when it comes to one way streets, bus lanes, and parking that requires me to have cash (which I never have).

My first trip downtown thankfully went rather smoothly—but the cost of the parking pass for the semester made me rethink my decision to drive everyday. I later found out that all CSU students have included in their fees a $25 public transit pass that we get to use for the whole semester, which is quite honestly pretty rad. I picked one up and started using it the first week of class. I used the public transit system quite a bit when I lived in Pittsburgh, but I forgot just how much I absolutely love it. I live right by an RTA station, so it is highly convenient for me. The trains show up just about every 15 minutes, so very little planning is involved.

Even better? I love the experience. I love the additional time I make for myself to do my school reading. I love that I give myself a whole hour to get downtown because I don’t feel rushed in the slightest. I love the feel of the train bouncing and bumbling on the tracks—I find it incredibly soothing. I love seeing all of the people around me, incredibly diverse and interesting. I love my walk from Tower City to campus, all of the new restaurants I discover along the way and make a note to try. I love walking past police officers and saying hello, looking up at the buildings around me and taking in just how amazing Cleveland can feel. I love looking at the boarded up, vacant storefronts and speculating on what would fit in perfectly there if the space were to be utilized again. I’ve missed the feeling of being in a busy downtown. Akron’s downtown is alright to be sure, but it doesn’t have the scale or the feel quite like Pittsburgh or Cleveland’s.

I still felt the damn near terror of getting off the train for the first time, not entirely sure of how the system works, where I should be headed, which way the exit was, with seemingly a million people pushing their way around me—but then I realized just how exciting it all was to see people moving in and out, all with a place to go and a sense of purpose. Everyone had their own function in the working city.

I’m certainly not trying to glamorize public transit. For the most part the stations can be dirty and full of some questionable looking characters. I still feel a bit on edge walking through downtown and Lakewood after dark. But all in all, it gives me a sense of belonging and independence in the city that I just don’t get behind the wheel of my car. You would think those two qualities are contradictory, but that’s exactly how I experience it. I feel both connected and strong, not insulated from everything around me but a part of it. Growing up an Akronite I never thought I would ever actually come to sort of like Cleveland (let alone really embrace it). I’m finding the more I see of it, the more invested I am in making it a better place and wanting to stick around for a while. It really does have some amazing qualities.

On Saturday I drove my car downtown, only because I had to drive straight to Akron for a wedding. My exit was closed, when I finally found my way to the street I needed to be on there was an accident that blocked my way, I had to follow a one way several blocks down to get to a street that would go through where I needed to go, the parking garage only took cash, and I was 25 minutes late to class—the entire time cursing up a storm and thinking about how lovely that walk would have been from Terminal Tower. It makes me wonder why more people wouldn’t want to utilize those options. Green development is great for the environment and all, but I think it’s even better for my sanity. After going that route, I’ve been avoiding my car altogether. Not just to get downtown—but I’ve started walking to the grocery store. I rode my bike to the bank and the park. I don’t think we realize just how much we miss when we’re toodling around in our little insular boxes all day.

***

Image by Andrew Coyle

Friday Five: Blast from the Past Edition

There was a very obvious theme running through my week, and it all kind of centered around one of my new favorite time periods in history: the 50s and 60s. Aside from learning a good deal about the Civil Rights Movement and the war in Vietnam, I hadn’t really been all that exposed to the culture of these decades. I thought it was all poodle skirts and chocolate malts at the diner. Whereas these are the stereotypical icons of the 50s, there is a whole lot more to learn and discover about this incredible time period. I can’t say I’d ever want to live in that time period, and certainly I wouldn’t want us to go back to the ways of old, but I can say that it is incredibly fascinating. And I’m a little less than obsessed right now. So here are this week’s Friday Five:

1. Edith Piaf

via

Along with things 50s, I’ve also become rather enamored with things French. Edith Piaf happens to be both. I could really include a whole number of artists here, all of those that I hear frequently on my French Café Pandora Station—Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong… Though I’ve heard all of these artists in movies and films, I had never really sat down and listened enough to gain a real appreciation. I’m happy to say that has changed. Edith kind of stood out for me, and I grabbed a copy of La Vie en Rose from the library and enjoyed it, as well as a biography of the woman, which I have yet to start. You may know her as the woman that sang the kick song from Inception... but she had a fascinating life, and is certainly not the classy, pretty face you would expect her to be.

2. Vintage Clothing

I wrote an entire post about vintage clothing this week, so I’m certainly not going to bore you all to tears beating the dead horse. I’m just loving 50s and 60s fashion in general, and I see a lot of it popping up in more updated ways all over the web right now. It’s got me hankering for more high waisted skirts and cardigans… bring on the fall wardrobe!!

3. Mad Men on Netflix

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I watch very little TV. Truth be told, I haven’t had cable since I lived at my parents’ house… which hasn't been for the last 6 years or so. When a friend recommended Mad Men last year, though, it opened up a can of worms. I absolutely love the show. I love the social undertones. I love the scandal. I love the costuming, and I love the characters—even the ones I hate I love to hate. I also love that Netflix put up the entire four seasons on instant queue. I had a whole season to catch up on, and needless to say… the whole of season four was watched in a matter of two days. If you have not experienced the greatness, I would highly recommend it.

4. The Linda

When I told my best friend I was headed to the Linda last Sunday, I was baffled that she responded, “What’s that?” Apparently I’m in on one of Akron’s great little secrets. The Linda Theatre, which is located in Goodyear Heights, is an old movie theatre indeed. It only hosts one screen, with a huge auditorium to seat it. It opened in 1945, and it definitely shows. They only show one movie at any given time, but the tickets are only $5. I’m saddened that this is actually the cheap price these days. I was pretty enraged when I found out the Regal charges $9… Thankfully I’m patient enough to let most movies hit the ‘Flix.

5. Eegah!

via

I got my first taste of Mystery Science Theatre 3000 a couple of weeks ago… and my friend insisted that “Eegah!” be my introductory film. I really enjoyed it for a couple of reasons. Not only is the entire concept and commentary from the silly bots enough to make this film hysterical, the film itself was a true testament of how terrible and awesome B-Movies from this era could really be. The ridiculous Elvis-esque musical interludes (from a guy that couldn’t even touch The King’s shadow), the incessant fainting of the damsel, and the glory (creature? mop?) that was Arch Hall Jr.’s hairdo. The original movie was produced in 1962, and it certainly shows. “Sorry about the face!” will forever and always have a place in my heart.

Hope you all are enjoying your last bits of summer!

Vintage Clothing and Exploration in Lakewood

Since my move to Lakewood in May, I have tended to gravitate toward the same few establishments for my entertainment needs. Though I boast a great love for Mullens, the Beer Engine, and India Garden, I felt this weekend was a great time to broaden my horizons and check out some of the smaller shopping establishments in the area. I’ve so often passed lines of storefronts without the time or motivation to stop in. I’ve been feeling rather inspired to do some thrifting and refashioning as of late, however, so it was decided: Saturday was the day.

After a quick Google search, I quickly found out that there is not one Goodwill in Lakewood. I did find information for a vintage clothing store, and a consignment shop, however. I grabbed my purse, went out, and began my hunt. Along the way I visited a few others that I had heard of, and stopped to grab a quick snack. Here are my thoughts on the visited establishments.

Future No Future

I have a special place in my heart for vintage clothing. I love clothing and furniture that holds a whole history, and products tended to be much better quality back in the day. I’m admittedly something of a wuss when it comes to actually wearing it, though. That’s all going to change, however. For someone who reveres Mad Men as much as I do, Future No Future was like a dream. I could have sworn I saw some of the very sweaters hanging on the rack in Betty Draper’s wardrobe. I tried on upwards of a dozen dresses and skirts. I would be broke if I would have left with everything I wanted to. Instead, I decided on the two pieces I thought I would get the most use out of.

[Note the cat under my bench... lol]

[I wonder how many dresses in prints like these my grandma wore...]

The first was a dress that I absolutely adore. It didn’t look like much on the hanger, but once on I realized what great shape and movement it had. I’m going to take it in a bit in the bust, and add a belt to update it a little, but I really can’t get over it. The print is so very dated, but I love it just the same. I can’t wait to buy a few more dresses in this style… just fantastic. I tried on so many things, ranging from $10 to $30. This one happened to be $24, but it was worth every penny.

[Definitely a fun and flirty one]

[Something about these prints has me in love]

The second piece I purchased came from a $5 and under bin. It’s a skirt that sits up on the waist rather than the hips—a style that seems to be really popular right now. When I purchased it, the skirt ran below my knees, and I lopped off quite a few inches and hemmed it. The print is not usually something I would go for, and the polyester isn’t usually my thing, as it can be really hot. But it was also really lightweight, and the length was perfect for the heat I wore it out in on Saturday night. I added some pearls and a pair of heels to finish it off. I was really happy with it. Can’t beat a cute skirt for $5.

Designer Consigner

I am a serious lover of Consignment shops. I was, however, gravely disappointed by Designer Consignor. With the word “designer” in the title, I expected to find at least some decent name brand clothing in the store… but it left much to be desired. Used to Plato’s Closet and local consignment shops in Akron like Gerri’s Closet, I left empty-handed and unmotivated to ever return. The selection wasn’t terrible, but not horribly current either, or particularly quality.

The Lakewood Library

I know this isn’t a shopping destination or snacking establishment. But after deciding that $7/month was way too much to ask my cheap ass for the DVD service on Netflix, I cancelled it. As there was a movie I really wanted to see, I considered grabbing on Amazon… until I almost smacked myself in the head and looked to see if the library carried it. In fact, there were multiple copies of La Vie en Rose at the Lakewood library, and I meandered down there for the first time to grab my shiny new library card. Holy gorgeous building! I really loved the space, and foresee myself heading there for studying and reading and general relaxation. It really is quite spectacular.

Lion and Blue

As a fan of things hippy-esque, Lion and Blue was a pretty easy sell. A customer at the farmer’s market was wearing a pretty fabulous dress from this place, and recommended it. I was very impressed. Adorable clothes. Great jewelry. There was a beaded belt I was pretty much dying for, and plan to return for very shortly when I have the extra cash laying around. Their prices are reasonable, and their products are unique. I’ll certainly be back there often. I left with a couple of headbands for $10. I’m sure I’ll get plenty of use out of them.

The Root Café

Because I sell vegan baked goods at the farmer’s market, I get a great may recommendations to the Root Café—as they specialize in vegan goods also. I stopped in to grab a drink and a snack, and read for a few minutes. It was a hot day, so I opted for the freshly squeezed lemonade flavored with a little guava. It was absolutely perfect. The art festival was going on that day, and consequently they had a very limited menu—but they had a few different kinds of pizza by the slice. The kale, roasted red pepper, and garlic pizza was more than worth the $3 I spent on it. I absolutely enjoyed the atmosphere of the place, busy as it was, and I anticipate many return trips to the Root Café.

There are still tons of establishments still needing visited in the Lakewood area, but I feel I made some great progress this weekend. Nothing like a little relaxation, a couple of great projects, and gorgeous, unique new clothes to make your weekend.

Friday Five—Heatwave Edition

So we’ve wrapped up one of thee hottest weeks I feel that Ohio has ever seen. I mean really, yesterday when I was in the car I looked down and it said, “102 degrees outside.” It was 7:00pm, people. This just shouldn’t happen. I felt like I was back in Micronesia, sweltering under the sun as I climbed the steep crag of Sokeh’s Rock. But really I was just sitting at my desk, covered in sweat, trying to make up some crap about concrete flooring in a half-dead heat daze. Welcome to Northeast Ohio v.2011. So enough with the complaining about the weather, right? We’re going to talk about some positives that I encountered over the week. Because who doesn’t love being one of those glass-half-full types, right?

1. Chris Hemsworth

I feel kind of like a pre-pubescent girl starting this list with something as ridiculous as a cute boy. Truth be told, my on the brink of obsessive mancrush on this, well, man, brings me back to the days of JTT and Leo. That’s right girls of the 90s, let it go and swoon:

I ran across this “hunk” (still using the era’s verbiage) when I caught a $1.50 showing of Thor on Wednesday. The movie was nothing to rave about. The CGI was about as atrocious as that of Green Lantern (see “other sub-par comic movies with gorgeous lead actors”), but the fact that my other major celebrity crush was in it more than made up for it—Natalie Portman, of course. I don’t usually get down on the Arian dudes, but blonde-hair-blue-eyes aside, he’s got a fantastic smile and pretty much made me melt into a big pile of goo all over the popcorn covered floors of Theater 6.

2. Air Conditioning

Unlike the freezer that is the movie theater, my apartment has zero air conditioning. Needless to say, it was a formidable oven. I’ve got two box fans, and a few windows that still have storm windows in them (that the landlord still hasn’t taken care of). I (now) have a working fridge and freezer. I live alone, so that usually warrants me wearing minimal clothes in these working conditions. All that considered, however, I was very happy to be able to escape into the near-winter wonderland of air conditioned locations. Like hotel rooms (when oh hey, power went out in most of Lakewood killing both of those box fans too), restaurants, and the wide world of retail… which brings me to my next one:

3. This Dress

I have something of a love affair with dresses during the summertime. I’m sure the heat didn’t hurt my preference for this particular piece either. Grabbed it at H&M (who knew there was an outdoor mall so close to me?) and can’t wait for the chance to wear it. There were so many I wanted to walk out with… sigh. The retail therapy with a girlfriend was also pretty fantastic—in the A/C, no less.

4. Jeni’s Ice Cream

Ice Cream is particularly delicious in this weather, but holy crazy delicious ice cream, Jeni’s is really where it’s at. For a girl that pretty much panics every time she has to decide between more than one flavor of anything, it was a bit of a nerve wracking experience walking into the little shop (did I mention it was air conditioned?). Thankfully, however, Jeni’s allows you to order in little tiny scoops so you can try a few different things. I decided to limit myself to two after a rather large meal at BD’s Mongolian BBQ—and landed on the Bangkok Peanut and Goat Cheese with Red Cherries. Yes. Those are both ice cream flavors. And yes. They were both amazing. I giggled to myself the entire time, entertained by the fact that I was eating spicy ice cream. It seemed a little oxymoronic, but damn was it good. Highly recommend.

5. Play

No, not a play. Just play. I got the opportunity to run around a park for an hour or so. Running over bridges, climbing up ladders, sliding down slides, doing cartwheels. I’ve learned over the years that being a grown up is a stressful and serious bit of business— and getting the chance to just let go and play is incredibly invigorating and refreshing… even in 90 degree weather. I would suggest you all take a bit of time over the weekend to kick back, relax, and just play. You’ll be amazed at how amazing it feels.

Hope you all have a fantastic weekend. Stay cool!

Feeling the Spirit of Community in Lakewood

So the majority of my Saturday mornings this summer will be spent at the Lakewood Farmers Market, selling delicious hemp baked (and no-bake) goods from Plant Kingdom Bakery. Spending so much time at the market has been a really great experience for me thus far. I’ve gotten the chance to meet a lot of wonderful people from the area, and it’s absolutely fantastic to talk with residents passing through.

Because most of my days are spent pent up in my living room, staring at a computer screen, the sunshine and conversation are certainly welcome changes. The best part, though, is seeing just how community-oriented Lakewood really is. There are so many wonderful programs and organizations in this city. From the LEAF Community to Art Walks; community gardens and urban farms to municipal pools, Lakewood really knows how to pull the neighborhood together and offer its residents wonderful opportunities to embrace collaborative spirit.

I’m hoping to have more great stories to tell about the community this summer, but for now I’ll just leave you with some photos from the market. Sorry for my relative absence as of late. This girl has been awfully busy!

Oh, and don't forget to visit us at the Lakewood Farmers Market! Every Saturday morning from 10:00am-1:00pm :)

[A few of the booths at the Market]

[easily the best coffee in Lakewood]

[Mmm. Delicious hemp goodies]

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Cute Tee Shirt Refashioning

So I apologize, sweet world of the internets. I’ve had an incredibly busy last month, and as a result I’ve been playing a hideous game of catch-up as far as my work is concerned. Where have I been, you ask? Well, I’ve been off doing things like fighting terrorism (read: annual two week training for the National Guard), playing music (in public!), and failing to see the sunshine (or the cool breeze of air conditioning… because I don’t have any). Now that I am relatively caught up, I’m updating this blog. Tonight I planned to spend some time watching movies and doing work, and that is still in the cards. I did take a couple of hours, however, to work on a little project I’ve been planning—because I haven’t had time to do so many crafty things as of late, and I love a fab green clothing project… but mostly because I wanted something to wear tomorrow when I go out with the girls.

Here it is:

I of course failed to take a “before” photo, but rest assured that it started out as a men’s plain, size small Aeropostale tee shirt. Solid, no frills. I snagged it at a Goodwill months ago and it’s been waiting a good ole refashioning. I absolutely love the fabric. So comfortable! I wasn’t sure what I was going to do with it, but after several hours on the glorious timesuck that is Pinterest, I found some inspiration and got to work. I really enjoyed playing with the fun, feminine rosettes—as it was my first time ever making or working with them. This shirt was incredibly easy to make and took me all of an hour and a half.

[a closeup of the detailing]

Here are the easy steps that you use to make it. I don’t have step-by-step photos, but I assure you it is not that serious. I didn’t bother measuring a thing.

1. Cut sleeves off of tee shirt.
2. Cut across the top in a straight line, roughly two inches from the bottom of the collar of the tee shirt.
3. I put pleats on the front, mostly because I thought it would give the shirt a bit more form and I thought, “What the hell? Why not?” I don’t think it’s 100% necessary, but if you want to, now is the time to do so.
4. Sew a tube on the top of both sides, so that you can string through.
5. I used a few strips from the top portion we cut off, near the collar, to make my straps. I cut three strips, sewed them together, and pulled so that the tee shirt material kind of buckles on itself and forms a tube/strip.
6. String through both sides.
7. Tie in a bow.
8. I created the rosettes with the hem of the sleeves, because it provided a nice finish.
9. I cut out three little leaves to add a bit more jazz.
10. Sew that crap on in a way that you think looks nice.
11. Voila! Cute tank top from a tee shirt.

The great thing about tee shirt fabric is that it doesn’t really unravel… so I kind of skip the hemming process altogether. Mostly because I’m lazy. Sometimes lazy fashion can be good fashion.

Either way, I hope you all have had a wonderful month, and I will leave you with a fantastic photo of me doing my Army thing—because it’s pretty rad. That’s right, this girl can sew and work on helicopters.

Friday Five: June 3

Hello diligent followers! Today is Friday (yes, Rebecca Black will be burned in your brain for roughly six hours henceforth). I’ve decided this week to kick-start my “Friday Five”—a list of five things that I’ve happened upon over the course of the week that tickled my fancy. Many will be from the glorious world of the internets. Others will be pulled from the tangible workings of my life. I hope you enjoy.

1. Pinterest

Although my free time certainly needs no additional social bookmarking or networking programs to monopolize it, I happened upon this one through other blogs that I read. Pinterest is a social sharing tool that allows you to divide up your posts (or “Pins”) into different themes through boards—for example, some of mine include food, beautiful people, animals, obsessions, things I want, and funny things I’ve come across. The concept is quite simple, but it is elegant and incredibly photo-intensive. I’m pretty enamoured.

2. Hair long enough to put in a ponytail.

I have over the last two years really come to appreciate the beauty of being able to put my hair in a ponytail—particularly on blistering hot days, such as the few we received here in NEO this week. For those of you who only met me recently, my hair has undertaken some serious evolution since 2008. As you can see in the photo below, it used to be incredibly long. Then it quickly became incredibly short before shipping out to basic training. I have, since those days of incredibly short, been trying to get back to just “kind of long.” I’m thrilled to have hit ponytail length.

[Roughly 3 years of Hair-volution.]

3. Eatin’ Critters

So apparently Mark Zuckerberg’s new personal challenge for the year is to eat only animals he’s killed. Now, Mark and I are “tight” for a number of reasons (really only because I spend more time than any person ever should on Facebook), but I can really appreciate this rather gruesome but salient value. I’m not a vegetarian. I once was, but it was a health choice and not so much a moral one. I like to eat me some pig, cow, chicken, duck… admittedly, lamb is one of my favorite dishes. I do, however, take issue with many of the practices of the meat industry, and while I try to take time to appreciate the animals that so graciously (and unwillingly) gave their lives to supply me with a delicious meal, there really is no way to drive the point home better than to have to kill it yourself. You can actually see the life for what it is and not mindlessly pick up a package at the grocery store filled with abstract, nondescript proof of a living being. I say good job, Mr. Zuckerberg. I will not of course be gallivanting around Lakewood slaying chipmunks and groundhogs (which seem to run rampant in this neighborhood) for my daily sustenance, but I will think of his efforts and take a moment or two to appreciate where my food actually comes from. Read the CNN article about Mark’s Challenge here.

4. Florence + The Machine

I know my entire last post was about music, but this one snuck in after I had posted it and ohmygoodness, is it fantastic stuff. I would file this one on Pinterest under “Ob.session.”

5. Happy Endings.

What if we lived in a world where Tupac and Biggie were still alive? What if they had made amends and were living together… in New Zealand?? An article showing on the front page of the PBS website claimed such storybook closure had actually taken place—but it turns out that it was the handiwork of hacking group LulzSec. A friend on (you guessed it) Facebook posted a link to this article and it certainly gave me a laugh or two. You can read it here.