Three Eleven

On the anniversary of 3/11, I found myself many times today thinking of the wonderful people of Japan.

Only one year after the earthquake and tsunami, I imagine much still lingers in the minds of those who lived through the tragedy.

Yet, the images that come to my mind having left Japan not long before the event are of smiling faces.

Faces from a country that is certain to triumph despite obstacles.
Every day I miss living in Japan and experiencing life amongst harmonious people.
My heartfelt blessings to those that are feeling sadness on and around this day.
May you find comfort in community, both near and far.

From,

Darla

Perennials are Growing

One thing I've learned in the course of a few years of blogging is that it is hard to write when you're not in good spirits. I've vowed to not be a grumpy blogger, so there you have the explanation for my hiatus. I'd like to say it's because I've been busy with inspiring endeavors, but that would be a lie. Honesty is the best policy, most of the time.

I think it's official and we can declare that old man winter has decided to remain in hibernation in NJ this season. Tonight we move our clocks ahead and signs of spring are evident. This morning when I opened the window shade a beautiful blue jay flitted from the front walkway to a nearby tree still without leaves. Venturing outside, I discovered my mint is emerging,

as well as my garden sorrel.
And, apparently chives can survive a mild winter.

I decided to be daring and planted cold tolerant beta mix and lettuce. Plus, beneath the soil in these pots, gladioli bulbs are hiding.

I'd say the blue jay made a big impact in convincing me that Spring is on it's way!

Shake Shack

With nice weather tempting us in the morning this past Saturday, we made a quick trip into the city. I had some things I wanted to get at the Asian supply store Pearl River, and Ryan & Ryder had their sites set on the big whale and dinosaurs at the American Museum of Natural History. Since the museum was out of cubbies to accommodate my bag of (heavy) goods purchased at the market, I stayed on the sidelines enjoying the views of Central Park before hooking up with the guys. On our way to the car park, we couldn't help but stop at the Shake Shack, a destination touted positively by my Not for Tourists guide book, for a vanilla shake and two chocolate malts. And yes, we will definitely return to the Shake Shack!

The guys enjoyed the museum but apparently Ryder was often put out by the lack of orderliness and politeness of the other patrons. Again, evidence that this child spent formative years in orderly & polite Japan. And he's decided he doesn't want to move to the city because, can you believe it, someone left their dog poo on the sidewalk!

From,

Darla

Mod Vera

I'm excited about my (new to me) vintage Vera Neumann. The lady behind the ladybug believed fine art should appear in our lives in many aspects, not just hung on a wall. Her collection of mod place mats and textiles are easily welcomed into any home decor with a retro vibe. So here begins my collection!

Maybe some day I'll get my hands on the DVDs about this pioneering woman, In the Company of Vera, and Vera Paints Ibiza in the Sun. I'd love to learn more.

From,

Darla

Happy Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine's Day!

Ryan did good!

Magazines

After a year and a half of being back in the United States, I've finally found my way in the expansive field of home magazines. Bummed to learn that Metropolitan Home has been discontinued, but happy to see dwell has flourished, I've settled on three publications devoted to mid century and modern design, Atomic Ranch, Modernism, and dwell. I still haven't found anything similar in English to the lovely Scandinavian publications devoted to real life for real people interiors such as Skona Hem or Bo Bedre or the Japanese Plus 1 Living. If you come across a comparable in English, please let me know. While I do enjoy the three I've settled on, they're a bit less practical and more about wishful thinking.

Sofa Dreams

Yesterday the ligne roset® catalog I ordered (for free) arrived in the mail. Tiny in size but big on modern magnificence, I can't take my eyes off of it.

While I do enjoy the more moderately priced selection we have in our home,

my true sofa love lies with the French company known for it's high "eye candy" factor as well as ultra comfort. My favorite, the Ruche' in yellow,

followed by the Ploum in any color.

Here's to someday, maybe. For now, I manage with a small but sweet catalogue.

From,

Darla