Seattle Recap

By kirsten | September 16, 2011 | Posted in Random Thoughts 16
Sep

We recently returned from a week-long vacation in Seattle. Our list of cities to visit is incredibly long, but Seattle jumped up the list when we realized we could time the trip to coincide with a video game convention (PAX) . The convention was an incredibly nerdy experience – some of the best people-watching I’ve ever experienced. We were also able to fit in some time to catch up with old friends who live in the area.

After the convention was over we set out to do touristy things in Seattle. I’m not going to give a boring day-by-day breakdown, but thought I would highlight the best places we visited, ate, and stayed.

Vacation Leave a comment

Flash Sales

By kirsten | August 15, 2011 | Posted in Home Design 15
Aug

A newish phenomenon in the home decorating online world is something called “flash sales”. These are sites that sell a limited stock of heavily discounted items, for a limited time only (usually a day or two).

The deal-a-day concept seems to have originated from Woot.com, a site that began selling daily tech deals in 2004. Woot.com has been a part of geek culture for a long time now, with their renowned “Woot-offs” (marathon of deals), and their Bag of Craps (a bunch of random junk with a small chance of receiving something awesome). They now sell wine, T-shirts, and kids products as well.

Over the years, hundreds of similar sites have cropped up, but this explosion of home decor sites is the first time I’ve seen success. I think the key is the niche market they are targeting (much as Woot targeted tech geeks). There has been a lot of discussion among the home design blogging community on which sites are best, so I thought I would chime in to share my opinions, and even some purchases.

Flash Deals, Home Decor Leave a comment

Vegetable Tart

By kirsten | August 8, 2011 | Posted in Recipes 8
Aug

I think this recipe was original inspired by a dish called “Aubergine Tart” that I had at the British pub downtown. My attempts to recreate that failed, but it eventually turned into something that has earned a regular spot on our meal plan.

Crusty puff pastry, a variety of fresh vegetables, and of course gooey cheese make for a delicious combo.

Feta, Onion, Puff Pastry, Red Pepper Leave a comment

Curb Appeal

By kirsten | July 27, 2011 | Posted in Home Design 27
Jul

After several weeks of hard work, the initial pass of landscaping is done!

Of course our timing couldn’t have been better – the past few weeks have been incredibly hot, full of 90+ degree days. A truly crazy time to be spending many hours outside engaging in strenuous activities. Somehow we got it done.

Exterior, Landscape edging, Landscaping, Mulch, Plants 1 Comment

Lighting Transformation

By kirsten | July 25, 2011 | Posted in Home Design 25
Jul

Lighting is a bit like the jewelry of a house – it makes a statement and can really change the overall effect. Our lighting was not making the right kind of statement for me at all. It was really the only thing I disliked about the house.

The thick antiqued bronze and yellowed glass felt far too traditional and heavy for my tastes. The more time I spent around the lighting, the more I grew to dislike it. Eventually it caused me to cringe every time I looked at it.

Finally, Ladder, Lighting, Lights Leave a comment