Note to self:

I want a bike--not even because I need to take out a mortgage to buy gas for my Bug. Killer legs and helmet hair, what more could you ask for? (Okay, maybe her get-up)

credits: 1. photo via The Sartorialist, Bicycles

Artisans are people too

Ah, long weekend & heading to the shore (don't you dare call it anything else). Although I can not fully honor my own labor efforts these next few days, I intend on honoring the efforts of those around me. And that's what really counts. Alas, leaving you with some handmade goodies to honor the aspiring laborers in all of us:

I want a margarita and some BBQ with these.
Simple. and. Beautiful.

Handle bars, anyone?

Signing off, Houston.

credits: 1. Multi-colored Papel, Etsy, 2. Knottedrush Ring, Supermarket, 3. Mustache Handkerchief, Etsy

"Feel like a woman, wear a dress"

A legend in itself, the DVF Wrap Dress is known to be one of the most influential pieces in fashion history. Hundreds have tried to impersonate it's beauty and elegance (cheaper prices and mediocre quality, of course), but only one person I know has successfully found a deal that she will be ranting and raving about to her cousin's uncle's grandma. At a lonely thrift store on 25th and 5th, Robyn* stumbled upon a THIRTEEN DOLLAR DVF WRAP DRESS. Oh, I know. "Val, you would've been proud of me." And who wouldn't be? Cheers to that.

*for sake of limiting my lawsuits and for lack of creativity, I used her middle name until I call her in an hour to ask her if I can reveal her identity.

credits: 1. Amanda Christine Miller, Huffington Post

I'm an environmental hazard

Oh, hello little birdy. You are going in five pretty frames.

Only about 3.5 x 5, but loaded with scraps of paper I never knew could be so gorgeous.

I want you, I want you so bad.

I have a disease called Paper Obsessionitis. It's rare. Sometimes I smell it...and like it. It's an actual problem because it's likely that I am the sole reason why there is even a need to replant trees.

credits: 1. "Bird Survey" by Matt Cipov, Three Potato Four, 2. Pretty Paper Notebook, Three Potato Four, 3. Set of Tree Silhouette Gift Tags, Three Potato Four

Green is the word

so refreshing and pretty.

I can see these on the side of a cottage somewhere.

It looks like a magical watering can.

Despite the fact that I just graduted college, and am no more than half the age of the average gardener, I still love the crap out of it. I get to cook with new veggies and herbs, knowing that they came from all of my hard work. The point is: love what you do and it will reward you. If all of these goodies aren't inspiration to have your very own garden, you basically have no hope.

credits: 1. Windowsill Herb Set, The Tasteful Garden, 2. Dramm Garden Hoses, NYBG Shop, 3. William Morris 'Cray' Print Watering Can, NYBG Shop

The steps to success

I'm sure you'll get some shit for giving this as an actual gift to that someone special. Eh, shake it off. Better they learn now than never.

credits: 1. How Tie, World Wide Fred

Barack your socks off

Because I believe in the pointed finger, and because it's the DNC this week. Ladies and gentlemen, history in an action figure.

credits: 1. Obama Figure, Urban Outfitters

Go ahead, strap it on

These almost make me want to run out, buy an acoustic, and get into Jewel-mode (circa "Who Will Save Your Soul"). The plaid is my favorite.

credits: 1. Striped Gross Grain Guitar Straps, Built by Wendy

Carry on

The gold and cream just do it for me.

credits: 1. Caron Faux Leather Handbag, For Love 21, $29.80

Start planning ahead

Never too early to start planning your planning. I bought the 2008 version of this puppy and it served me well. Day to day, I planned everything out neatly on the pages provided, and it quickly became the only thing I needed to get through a day (coming from the girl who has a Blackberry). Warning: you will become obsessed.

credits: 1. Moleskine catalogue, 2. Moleskine 2009 Red Large Daily Planner, Moleskine US

Olive you

After my trip to Europe a couple months ago, I've grown a new adoration/obsession for olives...in any color, shape, or form. A simple drizzle on a salad. A quick snack before dinner. So, when I came across this CSA-type of program for an olive grove in Italy, I went nuts.

For about $120.00 a year, you can purchase your very own olive tree from Nudo. Twice a year, this jazzy little place sends you the fruit of your donation--fresh olive oil from your tree. A bit pricey for what it is, but you help the grove and in return they hook you up with loads of olive oil. They even have a store on their website, if you are having commitment issues.

credits: 1. & 2. Nudo

MJ on steriods

I'm not really sure what it is about Mary Janes that screams "I'd rather puke in my mouth than buy those". It could be the trauma I suffered as a child wearing MJs day after day paired with my horrendous school uniform. BUT, this pair is not like those other ones. Half gladiator, half Mary Jane...in perfect union. I resent my previous statement about these guys. I'll give them a chance after all.

credits: 1. Lulu*s Fashion Lounge, Yoki Gladiator Mary Jane Flat, $24.00