Axis

I recently joined Memphis' modern/contemporary dance collective Project:Motion. Rehearsals for our June show (eMPHasis on BLUE) begin next week once Axis finishes up.

This weekend I'll be working concessions and stage strike for AXIS. If you're in Memphis, check it out, that's all I can say. It will better both you and the community--I promise. The Arts in Memphis really and truly do need support, this, on top of the fact that I think it is going to be a really interesting show.

Three distinctly versatile guest artists align with Project: Motion and converge in Memphis for an unforgettable performance of contemporary dance. Seattle artists Juliet Waller Pruzan and Stephen Hando’s unpredictable and quirky theatrical dance style versus the fiercely dynamic work of Pennsylvania artist Ursula Payne will combine forces to deliver an evening of deeply imaginative and thought provoking dance.The performance will feature solo works by the artists, as well as two duets by Pruzan and Hando, a duet by Payne featuring Wayne M. Smith, and an ensemble work by Payne set on Project: Motion dancers.

Sneak Peek:




and, on another dancing note...
When I was home watching Strangers With Candy I 3-times rewound this clip. For any and all Stephen Colbert slash Strangers With Candy fans--You're Welcome:



Happy Weekend
xoxo

Hyper Piper

My cousin got a new puppy....her name is Piper


i die.

what I wouldn't give to see my Cashman this young! I'm serious. Name your price, I'd consider it...

Organization 101: By Genre

Image Via

When Miss Dice requested a post about book organization I laughed out loud. Darling and I find ways to make our book setup work but, mind you, it is far from ideal.

I asked Darling what he thought about our book "organization," told him about Dice's request and his advice was simply, "tell her to get a Darling." It's true. Darling has a photographic memory when it comes to books. He knows where almost every book in the house is and can point out just about any page you're looking for inside any one of those books.

It is Darlings job to put the books in order--otherwise, we'd never find anything. This has been the most helpful aspect of our "organization," although, I don't think its the only answer.

Our biggest organizational problem is an issue with space. We have trouble wrangling all of our books into our 3 bookshelves (really, we just need more shelving). We've got rows and rows of books behind books (finding them, well, this is where Darling's memory shines)...


Space issues aside, it has worked out nicely when our books are organized by genre.

Bookshelf 1:
American fiction dominates our collection and we have an entire bookshelf dedicated to it. Darling, (remember, he does all of the actual organizing) has them organized in a roughly chronological order (??). For realsies. If I were the organizer I would probably group them by author, and roughly alphabetically (the M's all together but I wouldn't necessarily be a stickler for McCarthy coming before Morrison, etc. I find it turns into a micro-organizational nightmare when new books get brought in).

Bookshelf 2:
British Fiction. Translated Fiction (we don't have enough French or Russian translations to constitute entire sections so Genet and Tolstoy are on the same shelf). Poetry. Theory. Various over-sized books also occupy this shelf.

Bookshelf 3:
Our smaller bookshelf is dedicated to Non-Fiction: Biographies. Science. Nature. Entertainment writing. Essays. Along with anything that resides in its own category.

Children's books can generally be found in strategically placed stacks on top of the bookshelves. Now that Darling is teaching school, many of our children's books have found a home in the classroom.

Helpful? You've got me thinking about this now, which probably means more posts to come. Watch, Darling will read this and I will have to retract everything I just told you...

From The Mixed Up Files...

Corners where I live...

45 Books

Book 8

In Cold Blood - Truman Capote

My first time reading Capote, In Cold Blood was quick paced, captivating, and enjoyable; although, I'm not sure I recommend it for bedtime reading...

Day 2 of being sick enough to stay home. Ugh. I've been in a haze of purple cough syrup, loads of kleenex, cough drops, decongestants, mint tea, Sprite, soup, and I've been giggling at Amy Sedaris and Steven Colbert for two days watching a Strangers With Candy marathon, so at least I've got that going for me...

Coach Cherri Wolf: "Next up, Jerri Blank"
Susie: "Give me a V, I, C, T, O, R, Y"
Jerri: "V, I, C, T, O, R, Y"
Susie: "What's it spell?"
Jerri: "Win!!!"
Coach Wolf: "Jerri, uh, what does V-I-C-T-O-R-Y spell?"
Jerri: "Fandango? Hobocamp? Ho-hobocamp."

From the Mixed Up Files...

Coming across some photos from winter projects (no edits, terrible lighting, point and shoot camera--sorry) thought I'd share a few for folks back home...

You know the reports of people finding Jesus in the dogs ass hair or Mary burned into a piece of toast, or something? The story goes that one day I was crafting and cash got to eating some felt...we found this "miracle" some 24 hours later...
Remember when I fell in love with this little guy? Well, Darling remembered, and now he lives at our house :)

I made our stockings last year (2008) on December 23 around 10PM. I have to say I'm surprised they're holding up well.




After rummaging through all of our knickknacks I think we came up with 4 or 5 actual ornaments and a few random objects we stuck hooks on and called festive. We purchased a few colored balls, lights and ribbon, winter shaped cookie cutters, and a singing Elvis from one of the many Graceland gift shops. The rest were cut from sparkly paper and felt...






Mardi Gras tree topper

Two Years

Goodness me.

Two years together.

Our second year together mysteriously found a way to live up to (and even possibly exceed) the precedent of the first. I remembered my one year post (which feels like it could have been either 6 months, or 6 years ago), clicked back to reread and reflect on it, and thought about where we find ourselves after year two:

Acceptance into Teach For America. Graduating college. Spent 6 extremely difficult weeks living apart. Said goodbye to Mike. Said goodbye to Fosse. Packed up and wrapped up our lives in Utah. All that family stuff. Moved to Memphis. Met/adopted/fell in love with Cash. First-year teaching blues. Found a job. Weekend trips to Mississippi. Making new friends. First-year teaching blues. Christmas in New York and Coeur D'Alene. Project:Motion dance company. The first steps for Big Brother Big Sister completed. A real snow day. 28th Birthday. Valentines.

Our lives are busy and full. It has felt pretty epic. We've both been emotionally spent although we know we are both blessed and happy.

I can't believe we've been Memphians for almost 7 months.
I can't even tell you how strange it is to say that.


It's an adventure. I'm so, so lucky.

xoxo

Killing Me Softly

Oh Anthropologie,

You've really outdone yourself this time.
Book wallpaper that's not horrible or cheesy??
It's amaaazzzing in that kitchen, which, for me, is terrible news

because I hate the paint in my kitchen...

and I'm renting.

You dog.

Sissy


(Via a cup of jo)

Jim Tierney + More Book Love

Miss S brought to my attention the senior thesis of one Mr. Jim Tierney, who designed new covers for a set of Jules Verne novels. Jim is insanely talented and studying illustration at UArts in Philadelphia. I've been flipping through his website and blog all morning.

As a kinesthetic learner, I have always been an advocate for books, newspapers, and magazines as opposed to online articles and kindles--I still used a 3 ring day planner and actually write down every single purchase I make in the crappy "Transaction Register" you get with your checkbooks. I need to hold it in my hands, I need to physically cross an item off the list; otherwise, it (whatever "it" may be) just doesn't register in my brain. I think I giggled when I watched this demo video. I think the interactive, whimsical nature of the covers is clever and beautifully executed. I'll be keeping my eye out for this kid in the future:

Jules Verne cover designs by Jim Tierney from Jim Tierney on Vimeo.

I'll definitely let you know should his prints slash book designs go up for sale.

Also, Miss S's husband has an awesome book review blog The Mookse and the Gripes and, upon reading it, I have significantly added to my "to-read" list. (There's a link to it under "Fancy Places" on the sidebar.) It blows my mind how much material he covers (both in quantity and in variety) and always (I mean always--he never runs out) has intelligent insights and commentary.

Thank you for sharing!
xoxo

45 Books

Book 7

The Crying of Lot 49 - Thomas Pynchon

After the hefty Diversity of Life I was falling a bit behind schedule (up until that point I was 2-3 books ahead of my Monday posts) so I took up this novella to get me back on track. It was my first time reading Pynchon, and, although short, it wasn't nearly as quick to read as I thought it was going to be. The paranoia, the conspiracy, the running around in circles, the not knowing which parts to remember and which parts are included just to twist your brain a bit--these were all new conventions to me. Pynchon is often compared to Joyce, if that gives you (who are unfamiliar with him) any indicator of some of the literary conventions used.

Up until now, I've just been reporting books and linking the titles to description pages. Is anyone (all 4 of you - :)) particularly interested in a review? Or are we good as is? I've been trying to write something about each of these books (www.goodreads.com) but have kind of refrained from posting my banter here. I suppose if you were curious you'd ask...

either way..

Penguin Classics

Yes, I too (along with everyone else) fell in love last fall with the announcement of a US release of the new Penguin Classics cloth bound series designed by Coralie Bickford-Smith. Although I've tried to avoid posting about them, 5 new books were released including Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, which, at least to my sister and I, is a pretty big deal (I currently own 4 editions). Pink Flamingos? Are you kidding me? Perfection.






I've actually been trying to think of a good reason to donate the editions we currently have (unless they're loved, in which case, we just add another edition of the same book to the collection) (But who needs 2 copies of Lady Chatterly's Lover?) and replace them with some eye candy...

Did you listen to my Valentine yet? It's been on my mind all day:

Not long after that serendipitous phone call, Druyan had an idea for the record: They could measure the electrical impulses of a human brain and nervous system, turn it into sound, and put it on the record. Then maybe, 1,000 million years from now, some alien civilization might be able to turn that data back into thoughts. So, just a few days after she and Sagan declared their love for each other, Druyan went to Bellevue Hospital in New York City and meditated while the sounds of her brain and body were recorded. According to Druyan, part of what she was thinking during that meditation was about "the wonder of love, of being in love."

Images Via D*S

Happy Valentines Day (in advance)

My Valentine to you:

this amazing story

I heard it on Morning Edition while driving to work today. Please, please give a listen. Its breathtaking, romantic, and well, really incredible. Spread the love!

Happy Valentines Day
Happy Weekend
xoxo

Book Cover Archive

What could be better than a site dedicated to great design and books, true love?

Maybe.

Dear Dice,

Thank you for sharing with me. I believe you have sparked my newest obsession (be assured, I'll be posting like crazy).

Love,

Sissy

(From Dice)
The Book Cover Archive--way to be.... They categorize and keep you updated on new talent in design. Medium of choice? Book covers.
Naturally I eat up each new post like a starving orphan. These Cormac McCarthy covers were done by one David Pearson and are quite impressive.





I think Darling might have an accident if he happens to see these. We own every single Cormac McCarthy book and Darling wrote his honors thesis on Blood Meridian. It's a pretty intense affair. I look forward to making room for a second round of the McCarthy catalog.

To: Me - Love: Me

It's the season of love, so, love yourself too, right?

I like to look friends, a lot. I like to browse clothes, shoes, bags, home decor, craft ideas, tutorials, puppies... I'm down to thumb through websites and magazines or spend time in antique stores and boutiques. (The one place I find myself having real problems is the mall. I just don't do well in malls.) But folks, I have a confession--I really almost never buy.

Lately I've been feeling like I really need a wardrobe face-lift. A few new pieces, here and there, to give my old ones new life.

I saw the killer post-holiday sales at Urban Outfitters and decided to indulge in the cut-out bootie trend with these:



Although much edgier than I usually opt for, the matte navy leather make them easy to dress up or down. The platform heels make them practical to wear (and I tend to be a wobbly-walker and a complainer when it comes to heels) and its nice to see a pop of fancy during an otherwise, monotonous day.

I also bit the bullet and bought a "grown-up" bag. No more $1.99 Old Navy tote for me! (at least for now.) I couldn't justify spending the money for a leather bag, so I was excited to spot this pretty plum colored vegan bag by Street Level from Need Supply with a shoulder and cross-body strap.:





I forget that colors like navy, plum, and olive can work as neutrals...
I'm feeling good about this...

I Quilt!

Okay, okay. I really don't have the desire to learn to knit just yet. I'm going to enjoy the benefits of my mother's knitting classes and push that off for later. What I am interested in, however, is making a quilt/bedspread for Darling and I. I have the book Quilts Quilts Quilts and have been taken with some of their patterns, including versions of "Ocean Waves":

Image Via

But after browsing online, there seems to be a never ending supply of great patterns and designs that I would love to get my hands on! I've never done a patchwork quilt (only tied) so this would be a new, and rather large, undertaking. Darling said he'd help cut.

None of the quilts I've pictured have a color scheme I'm super stoked on; but in the same breath, I don't know what color scheme I am super stoked on...

I love all-white, neutral rooms in photography, but I've never lived in such (seemingly) serene minimalism. I've always been drawn to more practical designs (pet owner), and choose instead to be surrounded by color and objects that I love and use. Which is not to say earthy, muted tones (maybe a mix of golds, camels, whites, creams, light grays?) wouldn't make a gorgeous addition to the otherwise colorful bedroom. Something that looks young without looking childish, and only enough grandma to execute a pretty Anthropologie kind of look? Can I do that??

No pressure.

Native American Rug Inspired

Geometric

It's the pattern and texture, more than anything, I find so mesmerizing about quilting. I think it would be so neat to make my own.

Chevron

What do you think? Do you have a color preference? Suggestions? Solids vs Patterns, Colors vs Neutrals, Light vs. Dark? I'm just starting to look at fabrics online and would love some additional ideas.


Traditional

Pattern images from the amazing Purl Soho shop. I could do some serious damage on their site.

I have proof

That dreams can come true if you have the cash.
I die for this sofa.

Will you Be Mine?

I am definitely still on a felt kick (even after handmade holiday ornaments). In the last few weeks I've made felt buntings, felt dog portraits (for a friend's bday gift), and felt Valentine bouquets. I really think felt is an amazing material, its remarkably flexible and always has about it a sense of whimsy. I saw these adorable Valentine's felt crafts here and think they would be a fun addition to my growing collection of love-y felt objects (even if their original, intended audience was pre-k).

ribbon headbands


ribbon bracelets

45 Books

Book 6

The Diversity of Life - E.O. Wilson

A truly breathtaking read. Darling has been so amazing in aiding and helping me layout a sort of reading plan. (We met in college as English majors, and, we kind of connect on that level.) Darling's a few years older than I, and, ultimately: a better writer, much more well-read, more articulate, and smarter than I. Without a doubt he's better at all of this English stuff than I am (although my love for it is, indeed, genuine). But I feel incredibly lucky to have someone that I can share and learn so much from. The Diversity of Life is only the beginning of a small plan to enhance, compliment, and build upon previous books I've read while expanding my knowledge and delving into wonderfully rich new material.

Rain or Shine

It's been raining in Memphis for the last 3 days and I'm still feeling flu-ish. I saw this beautiful umbrella print on Little Green Notebook and its available as a free download here for you to print and enjoy! I'm pinning mine up at my desk. Doesn't it remind you of Marry Poppins? (Minus the wind-blown nannies, of course.)

I realized (yesterday) that this weekend would have been a swell one to spend in New Orleans: Mardi Gras and The Saints playing in the Super Bowl! I need to plan better next year as I'm really hoping to spend Mardi Gras in New Orleans at least once before leaving the South! No worries, there are no hurt feelings here. I have new travel plans sneaking into my schedule (!!) to look forward to.

Happy weekend to you!

xoxo

Love, Love

ImageVia


I love all the nice Balentines Day posts popping up. So fun. So pretty. So creative, sweet, and (obviously) lovely lovey-dovey.
Holiday travels got in my way of sending out any gifts, so, I told myself Valentine's was going to be my day to show everyone that I care...

hmmmm

We'll see if that actually comes to fruition. In the meantime, I'm looking for some crafty goodies to get my paws into.

Maybe I'll send you one in the mail?

Sick Day

Cash and I have hardly moved off the couch all day.


please don't be h1n1 ...

Rainbow Parties

Sunday, we celebrated Darlings birthday. Although we ate good food and played with new gizmos and new books, both Darling and myself were feeling under the weather which made for a more relaxed rather than exciting day. I feel like when it comes to my partner in crime, I always over-think gifts and end up coming up with something mediocre. He's so much better than I am with those sorts of things. I saw these images on Oh Happy Day and thought something as cheerful as this rainbow cake or balloon party would make anybody feel so special on their birthday. How could you not be all smiles? I mean, seriously. You're a robot.

Adieu

A few days late, I would still like to (publicly) bid farewell to Mr. J.D. Salinger. I (among countless others) have and will continue to enjoy your work that has immortalized you as a figure in American Literature.

I love that Salinger guy's style; the way you can really tell it's him just by the way a sentence is written. Boy, I mean it. One of the best goddamn writers of the last century! (okay, I'll let him do the rest of the talking):


Don't ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody.



Anyway, I keep picturing all these little kids playing some game in this big field of rye and all. Thousands of little kids, and nobody's around — nobody big, I mean — except me. And I'm standing on the edge of some crazy cliff. What I have to do, I have to catch everybody if they start to go over the cliff — I mean if they're running and they don't look where they're going I have to come out from somewhere and catch them. That's all I'd do all day. I'd just be the catcher in the rye, and all. I know it's crazy, but that's the only thing I'd really like to be. I know it's crazy.



I was half in love with her by the time we sat down. That's the thing about girls. Every time they do something pretty, even if they're not much to look at, or even if they're sort of stupid, you fall half in love with them, and then you never know where the hell you are. Girls. Jesus Christ. They can drive you crazy. They really can.





+++++


Funny enough, Cash's name was J.D. when we got him from the shelter! We went with "Cash" in a sort of south'rn Faulknerian fashion (we live little more than an hour from Oxford, MS) in lieu of J.D. (which I still think was a sound choice) but a fact to note nonetheless.