Life at the Pond

It's been a month, and unfortunately it's also been a month of radio silence, since that's apparently how long it takes BT to fix the internet wiring for our building. But before I go off on a rant, let's focus on the happy fact: It's been a month in our new home, and it's wonderful.

Not having any access to the outside world was kind of a blessing. There's been a lot to do before the space inside these walls felt like a home, and it's helped me to get out and embrace the beautiful town that I can call my own. Alton is a beautiful place. Our flat is a cozy place. And the pond is a glorious place. I already feel so affectionately for Kings Pond, which I have dubbed, "my pond," despite its obvious public location and use; and I have spent many an afternoon seated at its sides, watching the ducks, geese, and swans while indulging in a book.

 I hadn't read a book in ages, which is so unlike me, but with the lack of internet and incredible used book store just around the corner, I've been in binge mode. It's been a relief, really. I felt like life was so less hectic when I didn't have to worry about updates and emails and notifications, and I kinda liked it. It was a bit irritating to have to stand outside of coffee shops stealing wifi and trying not to look suspicious when I really needed to send an email, but it happened and we move on none the worse. Maybe for the better. Maybe it will inspire me a little to put the iPhone away more, to focus on what's around me more than what's supposed to be constantly entertaining me. And I'm hopeful that it does.

For more updates on Instagram, check out my hashtag #LifeAtThePond

Spring, please.

I am really desperate for springtime. I feel so motivated  this year, and I want to embrace the season that I so often overlooked while living in a city. Yesterday when the weather warmed up, I took a much-needed long hike/walk off the beaten path in search of anything and everything that showed any sign of spring and new life.

Thanks to Pinterest, I have a newfound obsession with foraging, and I would really love to get my hands on a field guide so that I can put my theoretical new passion into practice. A mushroom guide would be amazing, too. I love mushrooms, and I have really fond childhood memories of going mushroom picking in the woods near my grandmother's house, with a giant mushroom encyclopedia in tow. I'm pretty sure that most of the mushroom season is in the fall, but I'd love to get my hands on some wild chanterelles or morels at this time of year.

So, back to reality: we move into our new flat in... (I literally have to go count on my fingers now)... 8 days! Well, kind of. We're getting the keys and moving in some boxes on the Friday, and doing our first grocery shop to stock the place up, but then returning back to stay one final night in our current room at my in-laws' house. The furniture will be loaded into a moving van early the following morning, and then we're out of here for good, supressing the overwhelming urge to sing "So Long, Farewell" in unison. If it were up to me, I'd sleep on the floor the first night, but in the interest of saving money on fuel, it's out of my hands.

Speaking of saving money, I'm going super saver all up in this joint. It's no secret that money has been a tough and tender topic while I'm sitting here waiting to get my visa so that I can go to work, but I've learned a few lessons about what 'necessities' really are in the process. Plus, I've always been the "make it yourself" type when it comes to everything from cleaning products to repurposing objects and containers, so expect some handy DIY type posts in the near future.

That's all, folks!

Warm and Wonderful

We've finally seen the official change in climate, as the seemingly endless harsh winter we've had has given way to springtime warmth. In true northeast style, we've already had a few obnoxiously hot days. I'm looking forward to eating my lunches outside in Bryant Park or Madison Square Park, and escaping this concrete jungle for the beach or a weekend camping trip. Even the rain doesn't bother me when the weather is in this middle temperature rain. Being outside is just my favorite place to be.

    

On Being Inspired

Spring is influential in so many ways. The to-do-list mentality takes a backseat to the desire to just sit and watch the world go by. You can hear laughing outdoors again. Toes that were encased in boots for months crave a good pedicure and a new pair of open toed shoes so that they can soak up the sun, too. The floral sundresses come out of closets, and their gauzy skirts float in a warm breeze.

They say that fall in New York is romantic, but I've found that nothing says romance more than budding green life, colorful flowers, sunshine, and the return of outdoor happy hour.
Here's to the first truly warm day this year, and hopes for many more colorful lunchtime walks in Madison Square Park.

First Signs of Spring

  

 

On Saturday, the sun peeked out and warmed the layer of ice that has been covering everything in sight for this past month, and the balmy 50+ degree temperatures prompted a walk in the park. In between avoiding sinking into the pools of mud and melted snow, there were signs of the impending spring season beginning to show their colors. Despite my love of big coats and snowy weather, I think that I am finally ready for the seasons to change. I can't wait for everything to begin to grow again!

So Glad We MET

Spent this past Saturday with my roommate and his lovely mother, aunt, and boyfriend seeing the American Wing and the new Punk exhibit at the MET.

If you haven't seen "PUNK: Chaos to Couture" yet... You should. You just should. It's inspiring and takes me back to my winter and spring in London in '09. I wish photography had been allowed in the exhibit so that I could give a sneak peek, but that was not the case.

Also, weather permitting (we braved a light drizzle of rain), head up to the rooftop garden, where the floor is an inspiring and mildly disturbing painted work by Imran Qureshi.

All in all, a gorgeous weekend despite the rain.

Seize the Grey

I just attempted to make a pun on "seize the day," in case anyone was wondering.
Somehow, Ireland still manages to make grey rainy weather look beautiful.
I kissed the Blarney Stone today, which apparently means I'm going to talk more than usual now, so just a heads up/warning.
This afternoon the weather cleared up and made for a lovely evening as we pulled into Killarney. I have been eating such rich foods! Definitely craving some greens- sticking with salads and whatnot tomorrow.

First Glimpse

Just touched down this morning at 6am (local time) in Dublin.
It's such a beautiful sunny morning! Everyone saying this is the nicest weather they've seen in months! Just had a big delicious Irish breakfast, now heading out to walk and shop in town until its time to check in to the hotel.
Can't wait to see more :)

Let it Shine

Enjoying some of this spring weather in NYC before I leave on a jet plane Friday!
Check out this amazing vintage 70s paisley prairie skirt on sale now at www.shopdisowned.com.

Currently busy getting ready for a trip to Ireland, where I hope to roam the Emerald Isle as much as possible. Maybe I'll even score some unique vintage finds (fingers crossed)!!

Bold and Bright

This week has really heightened my excitement for warm days to be here again. I feel inspired, refreshed, and full of life. At Indigo (a fabric print show in NYC), I saw some amazing bold prints and incredible embellishment that I can't wait to use as inspiration for my current projects, both at my day job and for shopdisowned.com. I have spent lunch breaks soaking up rays in Bryant Park, and wandering around some trim shops looking for amazing new materials, like a perforated transparent neon PU at Elegant Fabrics. Time to get creative!

Geared up for Spring

Here are just a few of my favorite items on the blog for spring... Get them while they last!!!!
www.shopdisowned.com
etsy.com/shop/disownedclothingco

I have some brand spankin' new stuff hitting the site early next week - Can't wait!

First Signs of Spring

As much as I love snow and fur coats, today I gladly donned some flowy florals and embraced the first glimpse of spring weather. A long walk, a breath of fresh air, and a chance to soak up some sun were exactly what I needed after a long NYC winter.

First Signs of Spring

The beautiful weather this weekend was the perfect nudge to get back outdoors. So, we headed to Prospect Park to get some fresh air, soak up some rays, and stop by a farmer's market. The snow wasn't fully melted yet, but it almost felt like spring was finally here.

Dress - "Getaway Dress" at www.shopdisowned.com
Tights - Uniqlo
Jacket - Whish
Booties - Vince Camuto
Bag - Justfab.com

Berry Pretty

Is it spring yet?

Despite the impending blizzard tomorrow, I decided this morning that I was ready for spring, and all of the lovely berry and coral hues that I can't wait to wear and see everywhere. Even my raspberry hibiscus tea and raspberries as an afternoon snack made me crave the changing season!