tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61098765552884281102024-03-13T07:59:27.317-04:00How does your garden grow?Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger216125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-46050468594956489242011-11-30T20:52:00.000-05:002014-03-30T20:53:13.039-04:00New Collaborative Blog: 17 Apart<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://17apart.blogspot.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hSEA6PRpH94/Tjyj7pO9xHI/AAAAAAAACpM/cX7LFIyPJtY/s640/17apartbannerphotos.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637561078637249650" style="display: block; height: 152px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 499px;" /></a><br />
I'm excited to share the beginnings of a collaborative project I've been working on with Tim: <a href="http://17apart.blogspot.com/">17 Apart</a>. On this new blog, we hope to share the things we're passionate about, give a peek into our own version of what sustainable living means to us, and offer up a few surprises from time to time. Learn even more of what we have up our sleeves over on the <a href="http://17apart.blogspot.com/p/about.html">About page</a>.<br />
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While we're getting things going, we hope you'll take a moment to keep in touch and add our new blog to your reader to stay in the loop.</div>
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<a href="http://17apart.blogspot.com/" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lUI8oAb34Qk/Tjyj7S1bLlI/AAAAAAAACpE/GdKYqBS7SCc/s640/Mary%2BAndrews%2BTim%2BVidra%2B17%2BApart.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637561072624545362" style="display: block; height: 332px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 499px;" /></a>See you over at <a href="http://17apart.blogspot.com/">17 Apart</a>, xoxo</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-59923677683018873352011-11-16T08:51:00.005-05:002011-11-16T08:58:16.840-05:00Giveaway: Peanut Knife Necklace<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTitfiO-cDM/TsPADIDVMLI/AAAAAAAADVg/ipLRgF6uKwo/s1600/Peanut%2BPocket%2BKnife%2BNecklace.jpg"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675591115350552754" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTitfiO-cDM/TsPADIDVMLI/AAAAAAAADVg/ipLRgF6uKwo/s640/Peanut%2BPocket%2BKnife%2BNecklace.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 501px; height: 491px;" border="0" /></a><br />To welcome the holiday season and show thanks for all your support, I'm giving away one of these brass peanut shaped pocket knife necklaces, from my jewelry shop, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary">Contrary</a> over on <a href="http://17apart.blogspot.com/2011/11/contrary-jewelry-giveaway-peanut-pocket.html">17 Apart</a>. <br /><br />This design in particular gets more comments on it's quirky, cute, and edgy nature from people all over the world — it's been one of the most popular designs in the pocket knife line for 2 1/2 years now and would make a great gift idea for the holidays.<br /><br />Find all the giveaway details with 7 ways to enter on <a href="http://17apart.blogspot.com/2011/11/contrary-jewelry-giveaway-peanut-pocket.html">17 Apart</a> and good luck!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-30373032333062400962011-10-10T21:09:00.007-04:002011-10-10T21:33:07.821-04:00Good Cheer Deal: Contrary Jewelry<a href="http://www.ohhellofriendblog.com/2011/10/good-cheer-deal-contrary.html"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662038706767216450" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nvu_eBHQu3M/TpOaNH1fP0I/AAAAAAAAC9c/NZpYVccA1Yk/s1600/gcd-contrary1.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 500px; height: 527px;" border="0" /></a><br />Looking to get a jump on your holiday shopping or just need a good excuse to spoil yourself with a new piece of jewelry? I'm excited to share a special collaboration and exclusive promotion for <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary">Contrary Jewelry</a> over on <a href="http://www.ohhellofriendblog.com/2011/10/good-cheer-deal-contrary.html">Hello, Friend's Good Cheer Deals</a> — just launched today!<br /><br />Visit <a href="http://www.ohhellofriendblog.com/2011/10/good-cheer-deal-contrary.html">Hello,Friend</a> for all the details on how to purchase one of 25 limited coupons for $25 good for $50 on any item/s in the shop (essentially 50% off your purchase).Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-43813555693008023862011-08-27T09:48:00.001-04:002011-08-27T09:52:37.881-04:00Shop Update: Limited Editions<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E_nPMQp-zx8/TljoTuo9EII/AAAAAAAACvI/qbdKjVzsvzA/s1600/NYC%2BRecap.jpg"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645517558543880322" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E_nPMQp-zx8/TljoTuo9EII/AAAAAAAACvI/qbdKjVzsvzA/s1600/NYC%2BRecap.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 500px; height: 382px;" border="0" /></a>During my trip to New York earlier this month I got to make a quick stop at few of my <a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-york-jewelry-finds.html">favorite jewelry supply warehouses</a>. I always like to stock up on vintage chains and new-to-me oddities when I get the chance.</div>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">Since my visit, I've been able to make a small batch of new jewelry designs which have landed their way into the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary?section_id=10026385">Limited Editions</a> section of the shop. This collection consists of jewelry incorporating many of the one of a kind antique and fine curiosities I come across. While a couple of these new favorites have already quickly found their new homes, I wanted to share them with you:
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<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79924617/goodwill-shoes-remington-pocket-knife" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 419px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vBaNr7X0Fg/TljpZUhq0TI/AAAAAAAACvM/02Wk7ig7PHw/s640/IMG_3593.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80045060/pocket-knife-necklace-horse-hoof-cordato" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 456px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SPj6Bc9j5oE/TljpaRHuluI/AAAAAAAACvQ/bTVK5ufR9UI/s640/IMG_3632.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80047456/pocket-knife-necklace-figural-bakelite" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 473px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0kxi3RNUWGo/TljpbUxzgNI/AAAAAAAACvU/PXjOzaZ3z9M/s640/IMG_3679.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79938862/folding-skeleton-key-necklace-rusted" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 455px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ck084zEd-NA/TljpdLjEuSI/AAAAAAAACvc/IjUzlbnWV8o/s640/IMG_3702.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/56741334" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 471px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IpgD_pO0Fao/TljpcB3g3uI/AAAAAAAACvY/o0LaQi7eHj8/s640/IMG_3690.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/56741334" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img style="width: 510px; height: 430px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pn2GFaLDQmQ/TljppcuiaDI/AAAAAAAACvg/5iio50ypL3g/s640/Dancing+Lady+Cigar+Fob" border="0" /></a></div>1. Vintage brass <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79924617/goodwill-shoes-remington-pocket-knife">Remington shoe shaped "Goodwill Shoes" pocket knife</a> souvenir pendant hanging from a vintage brass chain. Advertising tagline embossed on both sides reads: "For Hard Service and Long Wear" - Holliston, Mass. Goodwill Shoe Company also known as Arthur A. Williams Shoes (after its founder) specialized in leather shoes and steel toe "Safety First" boots. Among on of the earlier companies to produce such products at the time, it was one of the largest companies in manufacturing industrial boots by the 1930s. The company became bankrupt sometime in the mid 20th century. Built in 1909, the Goodwill Shoe Company factory resides on 26-28 Water Street, in Holliston, Massachusetts today.
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<br />2. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80045060/pocket-knife-necklace-horse-hoof-cordato">Antique dark brass horse hoof</a> doubling as a mini working pocket knife. Hoof hangs from a long vintage chain that slips right over the head. It almost looks as though it could have been handcrafted by a local artisan as a souvenir.
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<br />3. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80047456/pocket-knife-necklace-figural-bakelite">Rare antique Bakelite figural arm shaped pocket knife</a>. Knife hangs from bail on a long delicate sterling silver chain. I've never come across a similar figural pocket knife like this unique arm shape.
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<br />4. Rare <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79938862/folding-skeleton-key-necklace-rusted">antique folding skeleton keys</a> hanging from sparkling ball chains. These types of folding keys were made to fold so that you could put them in your pocket and were primarily used in schools, churches, and jails.
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<br />5. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/56741334">Victorian 1880's antique German figural chatelaine cigar fob</a> cutter in the shape of a dancing lady hanging from a delicate sterling silver chain. Cigar fob cutting mechanism is manipulated by squeezing the fob at the head and feet, essentially bending her knees making the dancer curtsey as she cuts the cigarette.
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<br />Click each of the photos above for additional images and item details.
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/search/label/l%20i%20m%20i%20t%20e%20d%20*%20e%20d%20i%20t%20i%20o%20n%20s">View Past Limited Edition Entries</a> |</b> <b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary?section_id=10026385">View Full Collection</a></b></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-18480594904197897202011-07-30T20:45:00.001-04:002011-07-30T20:47:06.875-04:00Limited Editions: Antique Coin Dispenser and Perfume Bottle<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary?section_id=10026385"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625144354920992194" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UPhfizJitZg/ThCG_M1cDcI/AAAAAAAACj0/OtSoUN5WnsY/s1600/Antique%2BGerman%2BChatelaine%2BCoin%2BHolder.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 500px; height: 296px;" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary?section_id=10026385"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625144347324911074" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HRnzS1sCdvQ/ThCG-wiZDeI/AAAAAAAACjs/wNFAOr6XIMI/s1600/Picnik%2Bcollage.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" border="0" /></a>I wanted to document two new pieces for my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary?section_id=10026385">limited edition line of jewelry</a> that have already come and gone. This collection consists of jewelry incorporating many of the one of a kind antique and fine curiosities I come across.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">1. Sterling silver necklace chain incorporating an antique 19th century German silver dispensing coin holder locket that was once part of a chatelaine. Chatelaines were typically worn by female housekeepers in the 1800's as a belted chain holding useful household tools like scissors, watches, keys, vinaigrettes, and more. Over time, the chatelaine evolved from a mostly utilitarian use into a status symbol for the wife to the house owner. This particular dispenser holds dime and penny sized coins - which in the 1800's was most likely a significant amount of money for the lady of the house.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">2. Gold plated necklace chain incorporating green Swarovski crystals and an antique brass perfume bottle with dauber and rare seal. Vial unscrews from the dauber revealing a hollowed opening in the bottle pendant. This vial still contained remnants of the perfume scent it once held.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/search/label/l%20i%20m%20i%20t%20e%20d%20*%20e%20d%20i%20t%20i%20o%20n%20s">View Past Limited Edition Entries</a> |</b> <b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary?section_id=10026385">View Full Collection</a></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-33238521103055733752011-07-23T18:30:00.001-04:002011-07-23T18:40:52.110-04:00Happy 100th, Granny!<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iFvIx_s0MW4/Tiss8I2h6CI/AAAAAAAACmw/ot5StmHukj0/s1600/Granny100cake.jpg"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632645170636908578" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iFvIx_s0MW4/Tiss8I2h6CI/AAAAAAAACmw/ot5StmHukj0/s640/Granny100cake.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 500px; height: 291px;" border="0" /></a>This past Monday was my grandmother's 100 birthday - as you can see, she's still got some good wind left in her! We celebrated family style last Saturday and I wanted to take a moment to share some of my favorite memories from the day.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FosPPoSVv1M/TissoQkitSI/AAAAAAAACmg/Hvv6supYB4k/s1600/100Cake.jpg"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632644829111563554" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FosPPoSVv1M/TissoQkitSI/AAAAAAAACmg/Hvv6supYB4k/s640/100Cake.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 501px; height: 333px;" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LM8kfzAlyKM/TissoHMr1nI/AAAAAAAACmY/aLCH2lh0qWw/s1600/Kids.jpg"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632644826595579506" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LM8kfzAlyKM/TissoHMr1nI/AAAAAAAACmY/aLCH2lh0qWw/s640/Kids.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 501px; height: 251px;" border="0" /></a>The cake was a wedding size and made by <a href="http://www.ukrops.com/">Ukrop's Bakery</a> - for those that know me well, this is my very favorite bakery for birthday cakes and a Richmond legend. My niece, Virginia, had her sights set on the cake since the moment she walked through the door. Her glazed over trance had me laughing and realizing how much of a girl after my own heart she is.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JlOgmiQnOHs/TissoExmEUI/AAAAAAAACmQ/a5NEzQo-xS0/s1600/BasilParty.jpg"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632644825945084226" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JlOgmiQnOHs/TissoExmEUI/AAAAAAAACmQ/a5NEzQo-xS0/s640/BasilParty.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 501px; height: 251px;" border="0" /></a>We brought Basil along to join in the celebration. All the children surrounded him and kept him busy the whole day. I joked how all we need to do is hire the little ones in our family to come over an hour a day running around the yard with him as an instant solution for tiring both Basil and the kids out.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PU9ggGYjXFA/TissoXY9TJI/AAAAAAAACmo/lLv33_w81fE/s1600/Sweetheart.jpg"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632644830942022802" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PU9ggGYjXFA/TissoXY9TJI/AAAAAAAACmo/lLv33_w81fE/s640/Sweetheart.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 501px; height: 333px;" border="0" /></a>At one point, all the men stood up and serenaded Granny with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDo56ByDnxA" style="font-style: italic;">Let me Call You Sweetheart</a>. It was quite the show. You can tell which ones are her sons as they each have their hands waved out in bravado. We have many characters in our family to keep things interesting.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lr6mY55Q_uk/TissnxkfYpI/AAAAAAAACmI/6uHWl-oz1YQ/s1600/Granny100.jpg"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632644820789846674" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lr6mY55Q_uk/TissnxkfYpI/AAAAAAAACmI/6uHWl-oz1YQ/s640/Granny100.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 501px; height: 385px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy 100th birthday, Granny. I always knew you would make it. I'm proud to carry your name and am looking forward to all the future times we spend together and the lessons you have yet to teach me.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-92132401039648113632011-07-02T17:30:00.000-04:002011-07-02T17:38:46.452-04:00Cinemagraphs by Jamie Beck<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xIa6iPaztlo/Tfw7EJ1A80I/AAAAAAAAOVg/qX3vPu2rmAg/cinemagraph2%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 615px; height: 375px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xIa6iPaztlo/Tfw7EJ1A80I/AAAAAAAAOVg/qX3vPu2rmAg/cinemagraph2%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" border="0" alt="" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qteJMICtD4w/Tfw8qdRmo8I/AAAAAAAAOWU/dk6dmnspFpo/cinemagraph18%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 615px; height: 383px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qteJMICtD4w/Tfw8qdRmo8I/AAAAAAAAOWU/dk6dmnspFpo/cinemagraph18%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" border="0" alt="" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-k-s2ck-kSMc/Tfw8aLs_n4I/AAAAAAAAOWI/bdrz2mX1pNg/cinemagraph15%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 615px; height: 346px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-k-s2ck-kSMc/Tfw8aLs_n4I/AAAAAAAAOWI/bdrz2mX1pNg/cinemagraph15%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" border="0" alt="" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xpQsGIRe1EA/Tfw78MvWg5I/AAAAAAAAOV0/xnCyUDwiNNI/cinemagraph6%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 615px; height: 431px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xpQsGIRe1EA/Tfw78MvWg5I/AAAAAAAAOV0/xnCyUDwiNNI/cinemagraph6%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" border="0" alt="" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-t0JzzfZSiMk/Tfw8iWUS2XI/AAAAAAAAOWQ/O8DmScdA_5Q/cinemagraph17%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 615px; height: 528px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-t0JzzfZSiMk/Tfw8iWUS2XI/AAAAAAAAOWQ/O8DmScdA_5Q/cinemagraph17%25255B4%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" border="0" alt="" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/__zoKJ77EvEc/TaqGOod5m3I/AAAAAAAAM5Y/cwjiSt46XEM/jamie-beck-14%5B4%5D.gif?imgmax=800" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 615px; height: 396px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/__zoKJ77EvEc/TaqGOod5m3I/AAAAAAAAM5Y/cwjiSt46XEM/jamie-beck-14%5B4%5D.gif?imgmax=800" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Have you all seen these moving images, coined "cinemagraphs," by New York City photographer <a href="http://fromme-toyou.tumblr.com/">Jamie Beck</a>? They are pretty awe inspiring to look at and take the concept of an animated gif up quite a few notches in my book.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">How amazing would something like these be for wedding memories, birth stories, and other landmark life moments? I'd just love to be able to get one or a few made in this style as a promotional photo for my <a href="http://contrary.etsy.com">jewelry line</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Could this be the next wave in photography? They seem to be in a category all their own. Find more cinematography and inspiration over on <a href="http://fromme-toyou.tumblr.com/">Jamies Beck's Tumbr</a>.</div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-80069022952293137382011-06-27T19:45:00.000-04:002011-06-27T19:57:09.696-04:00Etsy Finds: Vintage Love<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73875865/custom-repurposed-vintage-steel-locker"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623045996557545810" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wCHf_T-yc9o/TgkSiqx-sVI/AAAAAAAACjk/zOWBBAloNMk/s1600/locker%2Bcabinet.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 500px; height: 454px;" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75318131/antique-1921-jr-bauman-dress-form"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621240867821544034" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XotmJUT--Ck/TgKoyWNpYmI/AAAAAAAACi8/VOoa8OhHDp8/s1600/dress%2Bform.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 501px; height: 402px;" border="0" /></a>I came across these two stunning finds while in the midst of my daily Etsy "finding." I'm looking at <a href="http://etsy.com">Etsy</a> content throughout the majority of the day for my work in merchandising, so when something stops me in my tracks, I know I've just got to share.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">1. How clever is this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73875865/custom-repurposed-vintage-steel-locker">repurposed vintage locker console</a>? I've been dreaming about using vintage lockers as creative & decorative storage options but would have never thought to turn one on it's side. It's the little things like these that seed mainstream trends - yes you can call me on that one when these start popping up everywhere!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">2. I've already got a thing for vintage dress forms. Lately, I've been on the hunt for an antique version with a solid bust<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75318131/antique-1921-jr-bauman-dress-form"> just like the one above</a>. It retains all of the vintage character but still leaves a clean palette for jewelry & styling photos. Too bad this one's reserved but I'm happy to keep the hunt alive.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-51605635672048535812011-06-23T09:35:00.003-04:002011-07-03T13:08:37.967-04:00Limited Edition: Vintage Scope Cigarette Holder Necklace<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76315595/vintage-40s-50s-brass-scope-telescoping" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 378px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l1qc2UEuk1Y/TgKpRc5oWqI/AAAAAAAACjc/qieLAfF8iy4/s400/IMG_1866.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621241402192583330" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I've added a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary?section_id=10026385">new section</a> to <a href="http://contrary.etsy.com/">my shop</a> exclusively for limited edition and one of a kind jewelry designs. The pieces listed in this section incorporate many of the antique finds I come across but am unable to source multiples of or buy out a dead-stock collection. While I always wish I could source duplicates of these limited finds, I know its the fact they are in such short supply that gives them a noteworthy edge.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The latest necklace design I've launched into the mix is comprised of a vintage brass Scope telescoping cigarette holder that fits neatly inside a concealed vial. The holder itself has a black bakelite mouthpiece, which incidentally sports a few marks (presumably teeth) from its former life of mystique and allure.<br /><br /></div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76315595/vintage-40s-50s-brass-scope-telescoping" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 389px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eU9vvuvRavc/TgKpRE3ec7I/AAAAAAAACjU/qLbxWDKc1X0/s400/IMG_1834.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621241395741094834" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76315595/vintage-40s-50s-brass-scope-telescoping" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 388px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-txzy-UZrZ7c/TgKpQ60OHcI/AAAAAAAACjM/A6Q5BdD9aZo/s400/IMG_1861.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621241393043086786" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76315595/vintage-40s-50s-brass-scope-telescoping" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 367px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KvkpW9SVboU/TgKpQQPfkMI/AAAAAAAACjE/dkh9k7iF70g/s400/IMG_1843.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621241381614751938" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Find additional photos and details for <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76315595/vintage-40s-50s-brass-scope-telescoping">this new design</a> listed in the shop and keep an eye on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary?section_id=10026385">the new section</a> for limited and one of a kind treasures making their way onto center stage. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/search/label/l%20i%20m%20i%20t%20e%20d%20*%20e%20d%20i%20t%20i%20o%20n%20s">View Past Limited Edition Entries</a> |</b> <b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary?section_id=10026385">View Full Collection</a><br /><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-23343449815257435242011-06-11T18:15:00.004-04:002011-06-11T18:32:35.310-04:00Dog Days of Summer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wxA18-lU7rk/TfN3lT2TpbI/AAAAAAAACio/asmMj42ZBU4/s1600/IMG_1596.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 333px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wxA18-lU7rk/TfN3lT2TpbI/AAAAAAAACio/asmMj42ZBU4/s400/IMG_1596.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616964643128059314" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I wanted to share some photos from our walk down by river near our home. As I've <a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2011/06/mint-ice-cubes.html">previously mentioned</a>, the heat has been unforgiving over the past few weeks and has made it hard to let <a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2010/11/basil-herb-of-different-breed.html">Basil</a> go outside to play for any extended period of time during the day.<br /><br />Once on the riverbank, he didn't waste any time jumping right in. While weims are known hunters and swimmers, it was fascinating getting the chance to watch him jump in and just pick it up like a little swimming pro.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SkvNXWVObHk/TfN3lLtsvxI/AAAAAAAACig/2woEQyZk4XY/s1600/IMG_1583.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 351px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SkvNXWVObHk/TfN3lLtsvxI/AAAAAAAACig/2woEQyZk4XY/s400/IMG_1583.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616964640944471826" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mttt7KUH3-E/TfNzpRU4EFI/AAAAAAAACiY/hA00jsds3Jw/s1600/IMG_1602.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 368px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mttt7KUH3-E/TfNzpRU4EFI/AAAAAAAACiY/hA00jsds3Jw/s400/IMG_1602.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616960313123934290" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xqa8UKv9l_k/TfNzo1ZGMoI/AAAAAAAACiQ/kPIA481TDfk/s1600/IMG_1589.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 515px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xqa8UKv9l_k/TfNzo1ZGMoI/AAAAAAAACiQ/kPIA481TDfk/s400/IMG_1589.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616960305625444994" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QGauc3YvGPE/TfNzouH4x3I/AAAAAAAACiI/mVYyMt6QevQ/s1600/IMG_1574.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 449px; height: 379px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QGauc3YvGPE/TfNzouH4x3I/AAAAAAAACiI/mVYyMt6QevQ/s400/IMG_1574.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616960303674214258" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qS2sH7YWfh0/TfNzoGe1TTI/AAAAAAAACiA/Dfne-_x4_Rs/s1600/IMG_1575.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 342px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qS2sH7YWfh0/TfNzoGe1TTI/AAAAAAAACiA/Dfne-_x4_Rs/s400/IMG_1575.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616960293033037106" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The water not only cooled him off but gave him some of the much needed heavy exercise he's missed out on in the heat. Every time he swam out and returned, he shook off and excitedly turned right back around for another round.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AlaR-3l_uhs/TfNznoTTHfI/AAAAAAAACh4/vG4y8X_9Nso/s1600/IMG_1593.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AlaR-3l_uhs/TfNznoTTHfI/AAAAAAAACh4/vG4y8X_9Nso/s400/IMG_1593.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616960284931595762" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I hope you are enjoying your summer days wherever they might take you. Would love to hear any tried and true tips you have for keeping dogs happy in the heat!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-26085710894009723742011-06-09T21:10:00.001-04:002011-06-09T21:15:42.129-04:00Mint Ice Cubes<a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/06/09/hh-happy-hour-mojito-mo-hee-toe/" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 424px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xCfa4yAqIVM/TfFeJvaihlI/AAAAAAAAChw/hFO8Rb1FaqE/s400/mint%2Bice.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616373731747333714" border="0" /></a><div><div style="text-align: center;">I couldn't help but share these mint infused ice cubes - especially in the 100+ degree heat we've got going on here as of late. The mint came from our backyard garden, was simply stemmed and placed into individual ice cube trays for the effect above.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">While these particular cubes were made to go into the delicious <a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/06/09/hh-happy-hour-mojito-mo-hee-toe/">mojitos</a> for Tim's <a href="http://hillsandheights.org/category/hh-happy-hour/">H&H Happy Hour series,</a> I'm thinking they'd be such a clever compliment to so many other summer drinks (both spirited and virgin) like lemonade, iced tea, sangria, ginger ale, even an unexpected surprise in a tall glass of fresh water. Cheers to cooling off and staying creative while at it!</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-56101126273141395482011-06-05T09:15:00.007-04:002011-06-13T21:01:51.078-04:00Whistle Necklace Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/contrary" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 324px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RCq1TvOSXV4/TeqBRzYLaYI/AAAAAAAACho/reP_ZVA70io/s640/Necklace+Giveaway.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As a small way to show my appreciation for all of your continued support, I'm giving away one silver and one brass vintage whistle necklace newly launched in <a href="http://contrary.etsy.com/">the shop</a> to two lucky readers. These little whistles came from a dead-stock vintage collection and have a bit of a sentimental quality about them.</div><div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;">+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +</span></div><div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 20px;"><br /></span> <div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;"><b>Now down to business</b>:</span></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;">To enter, simply leave a comment on this post and indicate which of the two necklaces you would prefer should you be selected. Make sure to leave an email address where you can be contacted should you win or follow up with contact info once winner is announced.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;"><i><b>Each of the following will earn you an additional entry:</b></i></span></div><ul><li style="text-align: left; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;">Follow this blog by clicking the "Follow with Google friend connect" button on the right side bar and leave a separate comment on this post letting me know.</span></li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;"><li style="text-align: left;">"Like" <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ContraryJewelry" style="color: rgb(224, 150, 77); text-decoration: none;">Contrary Jewelry on Facebook</a> and leave a separate comment on this post letting me know.</li><li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://twitter.com/marymarytweets" style="color: rgb(224, 150, 77); text-decoration: none;">Follow me</a> on Twitter and leave a separate comment on this post telling me you’ve done so.</li><li>Tweet about the giveaway including the following: “<span><i>@marymarytweets is giving away Contrary whistle necklaces: </i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: normal; "><i>http://tinyurl.com/5u7p3pf</i></span></span>″ and anything else you'd like to include - then leave a separate comment on this post letting me know.</li><li>Click the Facebook Like button at the top of this post and leave a separate comment on this letting me know.</li></span></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i>The giveaway will end Sunday, June 12, 2011 at 11:59 PM EST; the winner will be auto-generated using <a href="http://www.random.org/" style="color: rgb(224, 150, 77); text-decoration: none;">Random.org</a> and updated in this post shortly after. Good Luck!</i></span></i></span></div></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><i>---------------------------------------------------------</i><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TtkD3NV8f3g/TfayCpXvHBI/AAAAAAAACi0/e3nhX2iJq6M/s1600/RandomOrg.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 312px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TtkD3NV8f3g/TfayCpXvHBI/AAAAAAAACi0/e3nhX2iJq6M/s400/RandomOrg.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617873343726165010" /></a></span></i></span></i></span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); line-height: 20px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><b>Update: This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to lucky commenters number 56 & 88, Saucy F. Baby & Cystal, who won the whistle necklaces! Stay tuned for future jewelry giveaways.</b></span></i></span></i></span></i></span></i></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com227tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-13210451250525698422011-06-03T22:04:00.003-04:002011-06-03T22:12:22.078-04:00Hills & Heights Interview<a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/06/02/ask-a-hills-and-heighter-3/" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6_ydPcO8Rs/TemF8N3wnWI/AAAAAAAAChQ/b189gXP8r5I/s400/Mary%2BAndrews%2BHills%2B%2526%2BHeights%2BInterview.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614165680056212834" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I'm thrilled to be featured in the <a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/06/02/ask-a-hills-and-heighter-3/">Ask a Hills & Heighter interview series</a> on our neighborhood news blog, <a href="http://hillsandheights.org/">Hills & Heights</a>, this week. Read the <a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/06/02/ask-a-hills-and-heighter-3/">interview</a> to find out a little more about my southern roots and why I love the neighborhood where I currently live.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-36854408547069990802011-06-01T21:05:00.001-04:002011-06-02T11:00:28.726-04:00Mini Shop Update<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75103431/vintage-eiffel-tower-figural-souvenir" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 404px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xDin1WAW6Dg/TebcE1cuPDI/AAAAAAAACg0/sQwlaLattxU/s400/IMG_1388.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613415961189039154" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75227054/brass-bird-talon-claw-necklace" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 399px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rTrvdu9hW4k/TebcE1o7wBI/AAAAAAAACgs/CcOAPb8JqUQ/s400/IMG_1290.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613415961240256530" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75100570/antique-skeleton-key-necklace" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 403px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jr3C5A6xBdk/TebcEt-ZesI/AAAAAAAACgk/MzPORj4tn04/s400/Key%2BNecklace.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613415959182801602" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75010830/brass-egyptian-beetle-necklace" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 411px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8C2ixg6fXik/TebcEU3xJvI/AAAAAAAACgc/F15J02MDpAw/s400/Beetle%2BNecklace.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613415952444106482" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I made time for a mid week mini shop update with new necklace designs:<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75103431/vintage-eiffel-tower-figural-souvenir"> Eiffel Tower Souvenir Pocket Knife Necklace</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75227054/brass-bird-talon-claw-necklace">Bird Talon Necklace</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75100570/antique-skeleton-key-necklace">Rusted Skeleton Key Necklace</a>, and a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75010830/brass-egyptian-beetle-necklace">Brass Beetle Necklace</a>. Click on the images above for additional photos and details on each new design.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It may be because I only have one in my keeping right now, but that little vintage Eiffel Tower is stealing my heart.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">P.S. Thanks for all of your well wishes on the <a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2011/05/porch-makeover-in-progress.html">porch makeover</a>. We are actually still tackling this project in the evenings and the 90 degree Virginia heat this week hasn't been expediting the process! Once complete, I promise a more robust update with before/after shots.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-45476775464343459752011-05-28T21:23:00.002-04:002011-05-28T21:28:58.442-04:00Porch Makeover in Progress<div style="text-align: center;">As <a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2011/05/little-surprises.html">previously mentioned</a>, our plans for the long weekend primarily surround a grandiose DIY porch makeover undertaking: removing all exterior wooden slats, removing all 1960's (?) striped screen panels, scraping & wire brushing remaining wood trim & panels, painting remaining wood elements (interior & exterior), hanging new aluminum screen panels, and finally affixing new white vinyl slats for the finish.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's what we were working with to begin with: a screened-in side porch original to the 1956 house with what we think is original screen which has a striped pattern made at the time to add privacy (the idea being that it could be seen out of but difficult to be seen inside of) and original painted wood slats. All of the above was showing some age, wear and tear:<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z-M2980iJK0/TeGWhW9VVdI/AAAAAAAACgU/Vjwi2yHYQgQ/s1600/Porch%2BBefore.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 295px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z-M2980iJK0/TeGWhW9VVdI/AAAAAAAACgU/Vjwi2yHYQgQ/s400/Porch%2BBefore.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611932110523028946" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">We (meaning <a href="http://timvidra.blogspot.com/">Tim</a>) began by removing all of the wooden slats from the exterior, then ripping off the screen panels one metal staple at a time. While Tim did much of the "heavy lifting" I started in on scraping, wire brushing, and wiping down the remaining wood elements that would need to be painted later.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k2SrsuSVXFQ/TeGWheuE48I/AAAAAAAACgM/o6c0yu1xnpU/s1600/IMG_1197.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 346px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k2SrsuSVXFQ/TeGWheuE48I/AAAAAAAACgM/o6c0yu1xnpU/s400/IMG_1197.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611932112606520258" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">As the screen continued to come down, we were both astounded at how much brighter the porch instantaneously became. By midday, we had all the slats & screen removed and had prepped all of the remaining wood in preparation for painting.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NpYR11lTQuk/TeGWS1ZSpEI/AAAAAAAACgE/14icwiC07BQ/s1600/Screened%2B%2526%2BSanded.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NpYR11lTQuk/TeGWS1ZSpEI/AAAAAAAACgE/14icwiC07BQ/s400/Screened%2B%2526%2BSanded.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611931860995318850" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Detail of before and after chipping wood vs. smoothed down below. We heard time and time again when talking about this project how important it was to scrape and smooth down ALL chipping paint on surfaces we planned to paint - otherwise any new paint would simply chip off in the same way the old paint already was.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nZl25CWkHzo/TeGWSqwaAMI/AAAAAAAACf8/-0vxyUOJC3w/s1600/Sanding%2BDetail.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 310px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nZl25CWkHzo/TeGWSqwaAMI/AAAAAAAACf8/-0vxyUOJC3w/s400/Sanding%2BDetail.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611931858139480258" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Basil, our supervising weimaraner puppy, wasn't quite sure what to think, but he kept the situation under control at all times with his curious nature trying to be right in the middle of everything. The funny part was - we were worried he might try to jump from the porch into the front yard now that the screen was removed (we don't allow him to run free in the front) but he actually stayed within the guidelines of the porch at all times. He enjoyed sticking his head outside where the old boundaries were with the screen but never once tried to leave the porch.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zA08JLZXC2A/TeGSVpraPLI/AAAAAAAACfs/iULZKoJenYQ/s1600/Basil%2BPorch.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 286px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zA08JLZXC2A/TeGSVpraPLI/AAAAAAAACfs/iULZKoJenYQ/s400/Basil%2BPorch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611927511343185074" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Tim hauled away all the debris to our local recycling bins since the old screen was aluminum - it was crazy seeing it all in once place once it had been ripped out:<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zxw_ETr15Io/TeGSU27wtLI/AAAAAAAACfk/jHSfSCko5M0/s1600/Porch%2BDebris.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 270px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zxw_ETr15Io/TeGSU27wtLI/AAAAAAAACfk/jHSfSCko5M0/s400/Porch%2BDebris.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611927497721558194" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">At this point, we had met the goal we set for the day (removal and prep) but still had some momentum and energy left in us so we went ahead and cracked open the cans of paint to get a first heavy coat on the remaining wood elements. We used an <a href="http://www.valsparpaint.com/en/find-the-right-product/contractor-products/exterior/paint/ultra-premium-exterior-paint.html">exterior semi-gloss finish paint</a> which claims to be a severe weather protectant and have a lifetime warranty - we shall see.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2v9T-eoFBic/TeGSUZAUzmI/AAAAAAAACfU/F2mdspeZpOM/s1600/Painting%2BPorch.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 295px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2v9T-eoFBic/TeGSUZAUzmI/AAAAAAAACfU/F2mdspeZpOM/s400/Painting%2BPorch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611927489687637602" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">After taping off the porch, painting was the most fun I had during the work today. It was relaxing and one of those things that gives an instant feeling of gratification with the before and after effect.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-frtpzIXx4D4/TeGSUtDsuZI/AAAAAAAACfc/Soe9-RQKiio/s1600/Painted%2BPorch.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 321px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-frtpzIXx4D4/TeGSUtDsuZI/AAAAAAAACfc/Soe9-RQKiio/s400/Painted%2BPorch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611927495070497170" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">So you can see we got further than we thought for the day - it feels great. Tomorrow we plan to touch up the paint in the morning, measure to make sure we know how much screen and how many slats to purchase and then head down to my mom's place on the river to spend some good old family time together. Monday morning we plan to get back to business by hanging the new screen and nailing in new white vinyl slats.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">By the looks of it, our "supervisor" was pretty tuckered after a full day of work:<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u3at1gJF7gs/TeGSV-Eq7AI/AAAAAAAACf0/lBEVeLe6T4s/s1600/IMG_1220.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 340px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u3at1gJF7gs/TeGSV-Eq7AI/AAAAAAAACf0/lBEVeLe6T4s/s400/IMG_1220.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611927516817845250" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">In case anybody is wondering - yes that is white paint on the side of his nose. He couldn't help himself. Any big plans for your weekend?</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-24802045147251365412011-05-27T09:44:00.007-04:002011-05-27T10:32:44.658-04:00Little Surprises<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dz-mPPCepJg/Td-rtcS7FYI/AAAAAAAACfM/Iga3oFeCIPg/s1600/IMG_0697.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 358px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dz-mPPCepJg/Td-rtcS7FYI/AAAAAAAACfM/Iga3oFeCIPg/s400/IMG_0697.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611392457904952706" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">We were so tickled to find this little fella peeping away in the brush under our bushes close to the house last weekend. After our big plans to tackle cleaning off the screened in porch, we were sitting out there for the first time this season sipping a couple <a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2011/05/cooling-off-in-eat-kitchen.html">Bloody Marys</a> when all of a sudden I noticed what sounded like a little baby bird in distress. Actually, I think <a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2010/11/basil-herb-of-different-breed.html">Basil</a> may have noticed it first and I took note after trying to figure out what he was so curious about.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I went out searching for it only to discover the baby bird alone and calling out for it's mother. I was worried it may be hurt as it seemed to be hobbling about and trying to fly. I presume it may have been the first time it tried to fly out of the nest. <a href="http://timvidra.blogspot.com/">Tim</a> gently picked up the baby bird and it nestled in his hand right away. After a little encouragement, the bird tried to flutter it's wings unsuccessfully - then tried once more and caught some great wind flying like a little pro. He shortly landed back on the ground and we left him be to carry on - now feeling assured he wasn't in any major distress.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5LVWrNDEwdk/Td-rR6v2VvI/AAAAAAAACe8/FThYe0_CeIg/s1600/IMG_0648.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 360px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5LVWrNDEwdk/Td-rR6v2VvI/AAAAAAAACe8/FThYe0_CeIg/s400/IMG_0648.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611391985043003122" /></a></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U0E_bdP7UBs/Td-rGhirB5I/AAAAAAAACe0/1Axccnqeqsg/s1600/IMG_0675.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 358px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U0E_bdP7UBs/Td-rGhirB5I/AAAAAAAACe0/1Axccnqeqsg/s400/IMG_0675.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611391789298288530" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sL6iI70GKvI/Td-rGDzuH1I/AAAAAAAACes/ZR4_b590Sng/s1600/IMG_0688.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 368px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sL6iI70GKvI/Td-rGDzuH1I/AAAAAAAACes/ZR4_b590Sng/s400/IMG_0688.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611391781316730706" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lm03EyaviLY/Td-rFuRGLXI/AAAAAAAACek/db9ElFVhqzk/s1600/IMG_0701.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lm03EyaviLY/Td-rFuRGLXI/AAAAAAAACek/db9ElFVhqzk/s400/IMG_0701.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611391775534361970" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-geDOZ6bmI-k/Td-rFVLjTXI/AAAAAAAACec/l5Gzgaq4KmM/s1600/IMG_0704.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 380px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-geDOZ6bmI-k/Td-rFVLjTXI/AAAAAAAACec/l5Gzgaq4KmM/s400/IMG_0704.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611391768800218482" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WCzyrBBcBQI/Td-rExofM8I/AAAAAAAACeU/vImBRmf1oSM/s1600/IMG_0709.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 348px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WCzyrBBcBQI/Td-rExofM8I/AAAAAAAACeU/vImBRmf1oSM/s400/IMG_0709.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611391759257908162" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">We discovered this baby bird almost a year to the week of finding<a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2010/05/nesting-robin-eggs.html"> this displaced bird's nest with robin eggs</a> in our yard if you remember. While I can't attest to the outcome of those eggs, it was so heartwarming to know this year may have produced better results.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We've seen the baby bird throughout the week in our trees and around the yard and couldn't be happier that everything turned out to be fine - also knowing handling the bird didn't seem to harm him or ostracize him in any way from other birds eased my mind (I still can't get over that wive's tale). </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For the long weekend ahead, we plan to take on a full porch makeover: ripping out old screen, scraping and painting the trim, hanging new screen, and fitting new vinyl slats in place. Hopefully everything will go smoothly and who knows what we might find this weekend! I hope the long weekend brings each of you some much needed R&R as well as some new surprises.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-20329507304307807882011-05-26T11:35:00.006-04:002011-05-26T11:43:37.365-04:00Cooling off in the E.A.T. Kitchen<a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/05/26/hh-happy-hour-vodka-infused-bloody-mary/" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 265px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T-BUBOirDSA/Td2a23jtKcI/AAAAAAAACeE/u_XoFuK-qgc/s400/BloodyMary.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610810978190830018" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Over the past week I've been lucky enough to cool off in this 90 degree Virginia heat with samples of some of the <a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/05/26/hh-happy-hour-vodka-infused-bloody-mary/">best Bloody Marys I've ever tasted</a> right here in the "<a href="http://timvidra.blogspot.com/">E.A.T. Kitchen</a>."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://timvidra.blogspot.com/">Tim's</a> been working on perfecting his summer cocktail repertoire in preparation for a new <a href="http://hillsandheights.org/tag/hh-happy-hour/">happy hour series</a> he'll be guest posting for on our local neighborhood news blog, <a href="http://hillsandheights.org/">Hills and Heights</a>.</div> <style type="text/css"> p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Times} </style> <div><div><br /><a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/05/26/hh-happy-hour-vodka-infused-bloody-mary/" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 298px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DkmL1ERk5x4/Td2a2TQ6UII/AAAAAAAACd8/vL0z5HV0-WE/s400/BloodyMaryInfusedVodka.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610810968448323714" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">That preparation included infusing vodka in our freezer for two weeks in a mason jar with basil, garlic and habaneros - lemme tell you how much this kicked up the drink and was unbelievably easy to do.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/05/26/hh-happy-hour-vodka-infused-bloody-mary/" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 324px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0twws6lAV0U/Td2a2NlseMI/AAAAAAAACd0/qfiq5O20wlk/s400/SaltRim.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610810966924884162" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Another pro tip I picked up (don't laugh at me if this is bar-tending 101) was how to "salt rim" a glass for a drink. Basically, you just sprinkle the salt or other coating you want to rim the glass with on a plate, rub a wedge of lemon or lime around the rim of the glass, then simply place the glass face down on the salt and twist a few times. The citrus juice keeps things sticky. Tim used <a href="http://www.oldbay.com/">Old Bay seasoning</a> on the rim of the glasses for these Bloody Marys - love!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/05/26/hh-happy-hour-vodka-infused-bloody-mary/" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 450px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XYSsVr6Jds/Td2i8JNtGGI/AAAAAAAACeM/i1dmRupuYrI/s400/Bloody%2BMary%2BE.A.T.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610819864922757218" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">For the full drink recipe, check out the <a href="http://hillsandheights.org/2011/05/26/hh-happy-hour-vodka-infused-bloody-mary/">post over on Hills and Heights</a>. What summer cocktail of choice are you looking forward to this season?</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-56293095186024448302011-05-22T10:30:00.002-04:002011-05-22T20:33:26.032-04:00From the Etsy Offices<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nb7wjnFjU9I/TdkfkM7dOhI/AAAAAAAACds/uH7IyIhJrH0/s1600/IMG_0534.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nb7wjnFjU9I/TdkfkM7dOhI/AAAAAAAACds/uH7IyIhJrH0/s400/IMG_0534.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609549517673019922" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-niupiD00Tqw/TdkfazXA2oI/AAAAAAAACdk/MU4Oz68aaf0/s1600/Etsy%2BOffices.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 210px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-niupiD00Tqw/TdkfazXA2oI/AAAAAAAACdk/MU4Oz68aaf0/s400/Etsy%2BOffices.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609549356190456450" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jsSbRKG-U2E/TdkfZsAVXII/AAAAAAAACdc/K82A1aI8MK4/s1600/Julie%2BEtsy.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 236px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jsSbRKG-U2E/TdkfZsAVXII/AAAAAAAACdc/K82A1aI8MK4/s400/Julie%2BEtsy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609549337036414082" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HbJWMXL50oU/TdkfZNMf37I/AAAAAAAACdU/qewe4bp7j3g/s1600/Danielle%2BMyrtle%2BEtsy.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 284px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HbJWMXL50oU/TdkfZNMf37I/AAAAAAAACdU/qewe4bp7j3g/s400/Danielle%2BMyrtle%2BEtsy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609549328765935538" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zuBPyYne98Y/TdkfYobi0xI/AAAAAAAACdM/mBqoJHL2nhY/s1600/IMG_0533.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zuBPyYne98Y/TdkfYobi0xI/AAAAAAAACdM/mBqoJHL2nhY/s400/IMG_0533.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609549318896931602" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WiUoPQo5BDg/TdkfXixymRI/AAAAAAAACdE/ZTFAuRspnsw/s1600/Mary%2BChristine%2BEtsy.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 405px; height: 239px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WiUoPQo5BDg/TdkfXixymRI/AAAAAAAACdE/ZTFAuRspnsw/s400/Mary%2BChristine%2BEtsy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609549300199758098" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">This past week I made a quick overnight trip to be in the <a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2010/07/etsys-offices.html">Etsy offices</a> in person for a few important meetings. The shots above show some views of the office from my corner of the world and a little goofing around during off hours. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite parts about the Brooklyn office is the fact it's dog-friendly. Each time I make the trip up I seem to be greeted by yet another new pup spending the work day in the office - that little cutie-pie above is Danielle's newest addition to her family, Miss Myrtle. She is a rescue dog from a puppy mill. Also, as you can see - one of my coworkers is out of the office on paternity leave so <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ChristineDomanic">Christine</a> and I decided to try his (armor gloves?) on for size.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-61985158780782243842011-05-21T11:25:00.006-04:002011-05-21T11:52:42.550-04:00City of Epic: An Exercise RPG<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="410px" src="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1171791306/city-of-epic-an-exercise-rpg/widget/video.html" width="480px"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;">One of my friends, Kelly Maguire, who I not only took <a href="http://www.vcu.edu/arts/craft/dept/">Craft and Materials studies classes</a> with in art school at VCU but have also had the pleasure of working with at <a href="http://etsy.com/">Etsy</a> in the past is working on a new creative venture involving placing the real time workouts you're already doing into an interactive storyline with rewards to help keep you motivated. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">They've launched the initial details on <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1171791306/city-of-epic-an-exercise-rpg">Kickstarter</a>, so if you're curious check out the video above to learn more. If you'd like to help support the growth and development of the project, help both Kelly and her business partner, Catherine, by spreading the word via your social networks and/or get more directly involved as a backer right from their <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1171791306/city-of-epic-an-exercise-rpg">Kickstarter project page</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm looking forward to watching as the project progresses since I've always been a big fan of the creative projects Kelly has taken on - including her line of lasercut novelties, <a href="http://www.everythingtiny.com/">Everything Tiny</a>, and her building of the popular <a href="http://www.indiecraftshows.com/">Indie Craftshows Directory</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Good luck guys!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-66148550561303896822011-05-15T09:00:00.006-04:002011-05-15T09:24:11.994-04:00Pinterest: Are you Pinning?<a href="http://pinterest.com/maryandrews/"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606927833375019442" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YD5wo8dslTg/Tc_PKF2RkbI/AAAAAAAACcM/oJ8rxH5leXg/s640/Mary%2BAndrews%2B%2528maryandrews%2529%2Bon%2BPinterest%2B%252820110515%2529.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" width="452" border="0" height="640" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0SNTgvtiUD4/Tc_OmIsV7yI/AAAAAAAACcE/5JdckMKDfcQ/s1600/Mary%2BAndrews%2B%2528maryandrews%2529%2Bon%2BPinterest%2B%252820110515%2529.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Are you pinning? Have you heard of pinning? What is pinning?<br /><br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a> is one of many great bookmarking sites catching on. The site basically allows you to bookmark and categorize any image you come across on the web for any reason. The visual layout is clean, simple, and inspiring. It's great for organization, saving ideas, and discovering new sites/products via other folks' pins/boards you admire. Personally, I've found it perfect for bookmarking blog images, diy projects, fashion, home ideas, Etsy products, and recipes I'd like to try. I also like to search the site for topics of interest to me just to see what other folks with great taste have come across which I might've never found on my own.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">At this time Pinterest is still invite only so if you're considering taking it for a spin let me know in the comments and I'll send you one. Click the image above to find <a href="http://pinterest.com/maryandrews/">my own Pinterest finds</a> and follow along. Already have an account? I'd love to know how you are using it and follow your finds.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-91677213595275540522011-05-04T21:30:00.000-04:002011-05-04T21:40:14.044-04:00Listening To: Adele, Someone Like You<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="520" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/NAc83CF8Ejk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">While working from home I've had <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004EBT5CU">Adele's 21</a> on repeat as of late - specifically <i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAc83CF8Ejk">Someone Like You</a></i>. Loving the above version where she's recorded singing the tune live in her home with some brief commentary on the meaning behind the words. By the way, who else is loving the fact she names each of her albums after the age she was when writing them?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">"I hate to turn up out of the bue uninvited, but I couldn't stay away, I couldn't fight it. I'd hoped you see my face and that you'd be reminded that for me — it isn't over yet." - <a href="http://www.adele.tv/home/">Adele</a></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-58151184114464300212011-04-29T22:45:00.001-04:002011-04-29T22:59:46.638-04:00Tattoo Files: Wrists and Arms<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gy3XhkWXf-c/TbRbUBCmTtI/AAAAAAAACb8/lyVwVqRXLqI/s1600/Wrist%2BBird%2BTattoos.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 272px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gy3XhkWXf-c/TbRbUBCmTtI/AAAAAAAACb8/lyVwVqRXLqI/s400/Wrist%2BBird%2BTattoos.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599200636163215058" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sst4ChTTdlM/TbRbT9tlr_I/AAAAAAAACb0/nlMywG3TGRY/s1600/lines%2Btattoo.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 308px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sst4ChTTdlM/TbRbT9tlr_I/AAAAAAAACb0/nlMywG3TGRY/s400/lines%2Btattoo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599200635269787634" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UzF1a67aAjs/TbRbTujpv9I/AAAAAAAACbs/ap9UKoZPE0s/s1600/glasses%2Btattoo.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UzF1a67aAjs/TbRbTujpv9I/AAAAAAAACbs/ap9UKoZPE0s/s400/glasses%2Btattoo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599200631201578962" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dtha5tPT69I/TbRbTW20EjI/AAAAAAAACbk/rhtkUlnz-VU/s1600/Tiger%2BDiamond%2BTattoos.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 260px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dtha5tPT69I/TbRbTW20EjI/AAAAAAAACbk/rhtkUlnz-VU/s400/Tiger%2BDiamond%2BTattoos.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599200624839496242" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127); font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; "><div style="text-align: center;">Some new tattoo designs I came across that caught my eye for one reason or another. Given the right design, wrists and arms seem like a good place to get inked. View original sources below and stay tuned for future files from this here un-inked little lady.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lookbook.nu/look/1683121-easy-to-take-you-could-take-me-in-fours">forearm birds</a> + <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/12483198/">wrist birds</a> + <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/16138418/">wrist lines</a> + <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/12483008/">glasses</a> + <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/10655847/">tiger</a> + <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/12483126/">diamonds</a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">* Previous <a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/search/label/t%20a%20t%20t%20o%20o%20*%20f%20i%20l%20e%20s" style="color: rgb(224, 150, 77); text-decoration: none; ">Tattoo Files</a> Posts *</div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-59069656623404749812011-04-16T23:10:00.001-04:002011-04-16T23:14:59.580-04:00The Peanut Knives are Back<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/51563680/golden-peanut-goober-folding-pocket"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596376860886857714" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OF-wnyyduJg/TapTGqZgd_I/AAAAAAAACak/Szv7HQmV3jA/s1600/Peanut%2BKnives.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 507px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">+++++++++++++++++<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">After a short absence, the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/51563680/golden-peanut-goober-folding-pocket">peanut knife necklaces</a> are back in stock by popular demand!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-38252810315067005142011-04-09T13:11:00.006-04:002011-04-09T13:22:24.716-04:00Vintage 60's Industrial Shop Chairs<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70852120/60s-industrial-shop-chair" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I7aWoNWM1YI/TaCTa3Eo0BI/AAAAAAAACaE/G8Frp2O9Yec/s400/Etsy%2BChairs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593632826863439890" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Someone seriously needs to purchase these <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70852120/60s-industrial-shop-chair">vintage industrial shop chairs</a> I found on <a href="http://etsy.com/">Etsy</a> this past week. They've been dangerously eating at me ever since I laid eyes on them - aren't they just gorgeous? I think they'd be perfect in an open floor plan, used as bar stools, or addition to an artist's studio. I've seen so many similar remakes cropping up across mainstream retail - but you just can't beat the real deal. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />The description even notes that they've been kept in a temperature controlled storage unit since their production - sigh. I'm seeing another case of "<a href="http://contrary-garden.blogspot.com/2011/03/such-thing-as-non-buyers-remorse.html">non-buyer's remorse</a>" in my future...</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6109876555288428110.post-65945021354747684632011-04-03T18:17:00.003-04:002011-04-11T10:27:08.826-04:00Silhouette Necklace Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71391515/vintage-brass-silhouette-cameo-necklace" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591188895054938850" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FrSLAnawZj4/TZfkrTnbwuI/AAAAAAAACZ8/iS-Lzzd9pYo/s320/Contrary%2BSilhouette%2BNecklace.jpg" style="display: block; height: 422px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 484px;" border="0" /></a>As a small way to show my appreciation for all of your support, I'm giving away one of the six <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71391515/vintage-brass-silhouette-cameo-necklace">limited edition silhouette necklaces</a> newly launched in <a href="http://contrary.etsy.com/">the shop</a>. These little pendants came from a dead-stock vintage collection and have such an endearing nostalgic quality about them. One would make a thoughtful keepsake gift and yet the design is simple enough for everyday wear.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;">+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +</div><div><div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Now down to business</b>: </div><div style="text-align: center;">To enter, simply leave a comment on this post. Make sure to leave an email address where you can be contacted should you win or follow up with contact info once winner is announced.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Each of the following will earn you an additional entry:</b></i></div><ul><li style="text-align: left;">Follow this blog by clicking the "Follow with Google friend connect" button on the right side bar and leave a separate comment on this post letting me know.</li><li style="text-align: left;">"Like" <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ContraryJewelry">Contrary Jewelry on Facebook</a> and leave a separate comment on this post letting me know.</li><li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://twitter.com/marymarytweets">Follow me</a> on Twitter and leave a separate comment on this post telling me you’ve done so.</li><li>Tweet about the giveaway including the following: “<span style="font-style: italic;">@marymarytweets is giving away a Contrary silhouette necklace: </span><span style="font-style: italic;">http://tinyurl.com/436safx</span>″ - then leave a separate comment on this post letting me know.</li><li>Click the Facebook Like button at the top of this post and leave a separate comment on this letting me know.</li></ul><i></i><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i>The giveaway will end Sunday, April 9, 2011 at 11:59 PM EST; the winner will be auto-generated using <a href="http://www.random.org/">Random.org</a> and updated in this post shortly after. Good Luck!</i></span></i></div></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i>---------------------------------------------------------</i></span></i></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8DTBb9X5nRg/TaMPTKDYTRI/AAAAAAAACaU/TkVNsAV0Xrg/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2011-04-11%2Bat%2B10.17.47%2BAM.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 175px; height: 197px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8DTBb9X5nRg/TaMPTKDYTRI/AAAAAAAACaU/TkVNsAV0Xrg/s400/Screen%2Bshot%2B2011-04-11%2Bat%2B10.17.47%2BAM.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594331983914749202" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Update: This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to lucky commenter number 269, Nicola B, who won the silhouette necklace! Stay tuned for future jewelry giveaways.</b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com315