the Ugly Green Chairtag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2009-11-21://12012-04-19T19:55:13ZMovable Type 4.32-enThis is Going to be a Shocker (Not)tag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.13002012-04-19T19:36:24Z2012-04-19T19:55:13Z You probably could have seen it coming, so it's not going to be a surprise when I tell you I'm kind of obsessed with Instagram. Using it on my phone is way different than the "cheater" method I was using and oh boy, do I understand the hype. Yes there are tons of other photo filter apps out there, but they're not exactly like Instagram and if you don't get it, then don't use...whitney
You probably could have seen it coming, so it's not going to be a surprise when I tell you I'm kind of obsessed with Instagram.
Using it on my phone is way different than the "cheater" method I was using and oh boy, do I understand the hype. Yes there are tons of other photo filter apps out there, but they're not exactly like Instagram and if you don't get it, then don't use it.
After using it for a couple of weeks, here's what I've found:
My favorite filter so far is EarlyBird. With Sierra and Lo-Fi coming in as close seconds. I try and play around with all of them, but these are usually the ones I land on.
Specific to Android: I wish there was an option to share to Flickr, but I guess that's coming soon. For now, I just find the Instagram photo in my gallery and send it to Flickr from there.
Also specific to Android: the app size is HUGE. Thankfully they updated it rather quickly so it's movable to an SD card, but wow. I ended up buying a new phone with more storage, which was not directly related to Instagram (I was running out of room before it was available), but it was definitely a catalyst.
My stream is full of cat photos. Maybe it should be called Catstagram. Or maybe I'll just start using that hashtag.
I also discovered Webstagram this week. Now I can check my feed without looking at my phone all the time. (Win!)
It's definitely been a welcomed distraction and I'll probably be back in the swing of posting on here and Flickr soon, but right now? I am all about Instagram.]]>
The Facts of Lifetag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12992012-04-02T23:39:22Z2012-04-03T16:07:21Z The Good: Two things: 1. Instagram for Android Coming Soon 2. Remember how I got "kicked off the island" last summer? I started contracting pretty soon after that. Today was my first official day as an employee at the same place. I like the people, and I like the company. It's all good. The Bad: I've been dealing with a family issue for the past 2 weeks and mentally, all I've really been able...whitneyThe Good:
Two things:
1. Instagram for Android Coming Soon
2. Remember how I got "kicked off the island" last summer? I started contracting pretty soon after that. Today was my first official day as an employee at the same place. I like the people, and I like the company. It's all good.
The Bad:
I've been dealing with a family issue for the past 2 weeks and mentally, all I've really been able to do is go to work, go home, and sleep. I haven't picked up the camera or posted a photo and I haven't really been on the internet that entire time (aside from a little Google+). Every day sort of feels a bit more normal, but it may be a while before I feel like participating in the internet as much as I was.
So that's what's going on with me.
I'm hoping Instagram for Android will launch soon, because that would be a lovely distraction, but I'm not holding my breath for that.
Edited to add: I guess someone out there heard me because Instagram for Android is in the Google Play store today! (Many, many thanks to JM for the tip!)]]>
Pausetag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12982012-03-22T05:27:54Z2012-03-22T05:35:32Z I can only keep a photo of my mug as the top post for so long, so it's the perfect time to post a flower photo....whitney
I can only keep a photo of my mug as the top post for so long, so it's the perfect time to post a flower photo. ]]>
Going Coastaltag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12972012-03-15T17:48:19Z2012-03-15T17:59:36Z Just a quick note to let you know that Coastal Contacts is having a big 'ol sale right now. If you need (or want) frames, most of them are only $38, so now is the time to order! Both the pairs I'm wearing in the photo above are from Coastal. So far I'm impressed. While they tend to be a bit pricier than some of my other online frame haunts (I did not pay...whitney
Just a quick note to let you know that Coastal Contacts is having a big 'ol sale right now. If you need (or want) frames, most of them are only $38, so now is the time to order!
Both the pairs I'm wearing in the photo above are from Coastal. So far I'm impressed. While they tend to be a bit pricier than some of my other online frame haunts (I did not pay $38 for them), the quality seems to be good, my prescription was right, they came in a nice case (which included a cleaning cloth and a little eyeglass screwdriver thingie), and they shipped super fast!
The sale ends March 19th, so jump on it!
(I have not been offered a damn thing to say any of this, but as the self-proclaimed online eyeglasses maven, I feel it's my duty to tell you these things.)]]>
Weekend Bitstag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12962012-03-12T20:19:50Z2012-03-12T20:31:56Z So the big Instagram announcement? It happened on Sunday and the result? The android version will be here "very soon" (according to this article over on Mashable Tech). This is good news! Not as awesome as the actual app being ready now, but I think I can live with "very soon". (Dear Instagram, if you need android beta testers, I'm your gal!) On a totally unrelated note, I attempted to make gluten-free lemon bars...whitney
So the big Instagram announcement? It happened on Sunday and the result? The android version will be here "very soon" (according to this article over on Mashable Tech). This is good news! Not as awesome as the actual app being ready now, but I think I can live with "very soon". (Dear Instagram, if you need android beta testers, I'm your gal!)
On a totally unrelated note, I attempted to make gluten-free lemon bars this weekend. I used coconut flour in the crust (instead of regular flour), and they turned out kind of "meh". The crust texture is crumbly and dense at the same time and it's just...not right. I made them Saturday night and the fact that we still have over half the pan left is quite telling (if neither one of us wants to eat them, you know they're not very good). I think I might try again with some all purpose gluten-free flour and see if they turn out better. The whole point of making them was to use up the surplus of lemons in the fruit bowl, so I might as well make some more, right? Right. If they turn out okay, I'll be sure to let you know.]]>
Cheatertag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12952012-03-07T05:55:23Z2012-03-07T06:10:44Z For the past, oh year or so, there's a phrase I've been googling every couple of weeks: "instagram for android" Late last year there was some article where they mentioned it was being worked on, but no mention of when it might be ready. Well, I just googled it again and there's speculation that the Android version might launch at SXSW this week. Which would be completely and utterly awesome. But it would also...whitney
For the past, oh year or so, there's a phrase I've been googling every couple of weeks:
"instagram for android"
Late last year there was some article where they mentioned it was being worked on, but no mention of when it might be ready. Well, I just googled it again and there's speculation that the Android version might launch at SXSW this week. Which would be completely and utterly awesome. But it would also make everything I'm about to tell you kind of pointless.
I found a way to sort of cheat on Instagram. The thing is, I have an iPad, so I downloaded the app. But I have the "old" iPad which doesn't have a camera. Last year, I had devised a way to get photos on Instagram by a very complicated procedure using drop box on my phone and the iPad. BUT! A couple of weeks ago, I realized that by using the FlickStackr app I can easily save photos to the iPad, and then upload them to Instagram!
So, it's not ideal. And it's still a bit of a process (take photo with phone, upload to flickr, save to iPad, upload to Instagram), but it's easy enough that I've actually been able to put a few photos on my account. Which has only made me want the app more. So I really REALLY hope the Instagram folks announce something android related at SXSW. Otherwise I may have to break down and actually get an iPhone, and that would be more trouble than cheater Instagram.]]>
An Update on the Hairtag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12942012-02-28T05:11:17Z2012-02-28T05:48:10Z You know what we haven't talked about in a while? My hair. Let's do this. So, August 2009, after attempting to grow out a pretty short 'do and getting very frustrated in the process, I shaved my own head. I think the timing was off, and I just wasn't ready to deal with growing it out. I continued to cut my own hair until May of last year. That's when I finally felt ready...whitney
You know what we haven't talked about in a while? My hair.
Let's do this.
So, August 2009, after attempting to grow out a pretty short 'do and getting very frustrated in the process, I shaved my own head. I think the timing was off, and I just wasn't ready to deal with growing it out. I continued to cut my own hair until May of last year. That's when I finally felt ready to grow it out.
I admit, the short hair was easy. REALLY easy. But you don't have a lot of styling options. I had reached a point where I wanted to have the option to put it up or leave it down. So I left it alone and let it grow. Well, not entirely. I did go get a trim from a stylist recommended by a friend (the hair had been approaching mullet territory), and I've messed with my bangs a little bit. The photo you see above is pretty much where we're at now. The hair is shoulder length, and I've reached a hair goal!
After many months of my only up-do hairstyle being pigtails, I'm now able to put it up into two little messy buns! Hair achievement unlocked! I can also get it into a pony tail, but I'm much more excited about the buns.
They're actually made possible by the super amazing Goody Mini Spin Pins. I guess they do the work of 20 bobby pins, and I absolutely believe it. I usually have a hard time getting clips and pins to work in my hair because there's so much of it. But the spin pins hold it in place (2 per bun, FYI)! It's taken a little work for me to figure out the best configuration for them (one has to secure the end of the bun and the other has to secure the middle), but once they're in? They're IN. And they stay there all day. Sometimes they're a little bit looser by the end of the day, but they're still up! I'm guessing that if I chose to use some sort of styling product with hold, they might not loosen up, but I'd rather take my chances and go product-free. The spin pins come in a regular size too, which I think works for larger buns and other up 'dos. If you purchase some and aren't quite sure what to do with them, check YouTube - there are a bunch of video tutorials!
So yeah, I'm super excited about the buns! I'm also finally starting to think about going in for another trim because the ends are pretty frizzy and I think it could be cleaned up a little. But I don't want to lose my buns! So I'm going to wait a little bit longer. I'm still not sure how long I actually want to let it grow, but since I've made it this far, I feel like I gotta keep going! This is the longest it's been in almost seven years!!]]>
Specs!tag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12932012-02-21T18:01:33Z2012-02-21T18:11:40ZJust a quick note about some glasses related things... I've got a Pinterest board now dedicated to glasses frames over here. A few of the online retailers are having sales right now! Zenni Optical has a buy 2 get one free sale. Eye Buy Direct has a buy one get one free sale going until March 5th. Glasses USA is having a 5 Star sale: Free shipping and coating on all orders if you use...whitney
over here.
A few of the online retailers are having sales right now!
Zenni Optical has a buy 2 get one free sale.
Eye Buy Direct has a buy one get one free sale going until March 5th.
Glasses USA is having a 5 Star sale: Free shipping and coating on all orders if you use coupon code FIVESTAR
I just got a new prescription, so you better believe I'm taking advantage of some of these deals!
If you're new to buying glasses online, I've got posts on the subject here, here, and here.]]>
The Boystag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12922012-02-20T05:24:04Z2012-02-20T05:44:37Z I don't talk about the boys much. I recognize that not everyone wants to hear about my cats. Even though they're AWESOME. (Not like I have a biased opinion or anything.) This is the thing though. We hadn't intended on adopting a second cat, he just sort of happened (as they sometimes do). And we though that Miles, being the very mellow dude he turned out to be, would be pretty accepting of a...whitney
I don't talk about the boys much. I recognize that not everyone wants to hear about my cats. Even though they're AWESOME. (Not like I have a biased opinion or anything.)
This is the thing though. We hadn't intended on adopting a second cat, he just sort of happened (as they sometimes do). And we though that Miles, being the very mellow dude he turned out to be, would be pretty accepting of a younger step-brother. And I suppose they do tolerate each other, but I don't think they really like each other all that much. Which makes me a little sad. I don't really want to write about my sad cats.
It's sort of a love/hate relationship, I guess. I think they like to play together and attack each other, but it quickly dissolves into a fight. I think I've probably mentioned that Monk is kind of a whiner, so these little tiffs sounds worse than they probably are, but it's hard not to react to a bunch of screeching and yowling coming form a mass of tumbling fur. We know it also happens when we're not here. Many times we've come home to someone missing a collar and little tufts of fur on the kitchen or living room floor.
Our latest way to break up the fights is to simply separate them. The almost-husband (that's my new name for the boy-fiance, btw) takes one cat and I take the other, and we close the door that separates the living room and the rest of the apartment and just let them chill out a little. But after a few minutes? They both end up on either side of the closed door. It's like they hate each other but dear god, don't SEPARATE THEM. Weirdos.
But! Saturday morning I came home from dance class, and found them both in the Poang chair. Miles was cleaning Monk's head, and he was tolerating it! Well, for a little while, anyways. He eventually ended up biting Miles on the leg. So Miles stopped licking Monk's head, but they both just sat there. And they stayed like that long enough for me to take a few photos with my phone and the big camera.
It gave me a little hope. It may have taken almost a year and a half, but it feels like maybe, someday, they'll be buddies. It might take another year and a half, but that's okay. Maybe then I'll become the crazy cat lady blogger that I know I've got the potential to be! I know you can't wait.]]>
All Earstag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12912012-02-16T07:47:13Z2012-02-16T07:57:29Z For Christmas this year, my brother gave me a pair of mouse ears. Well, first, he gave me a gift certificate that was wrapped in a package that looked like mouse ears. Then, for fun, he decided he might as well get me a pair of real mouse ears too. See, there's a thing about mouse ears in my family. And it's not because we're Disney people (not that there's anything wrong with that)....whitney
For Christmas this year, my brother gave me a pair of mouse ears. Well, first, he gave me a gift certificate that was wrapped in a package that looked like mouse ears. Then, for fun, he decided he might as well get me a pair of real mouse ears too.
See, there's a thing about mouse ears in my family. And it's not because we're Disney people (not that there's anything wrong with that).
My brother is almost exactly 2 years younger than me. When he was born (the day after my birthday), my parents gave me a pair of Mickey Mouse ears, and they said they were from him. Apparently I LOVED them and would not let anyone remove them from my head unless I was going to sleep. LOVE!
So when my brother gives me mouse ears? It's kind of a big deal. As you might imagine, the current pair are not as permanently attached to my head (they're sitting on the dresser though, just waiting for me to wear them at any moment).
Also, the photo on the left? I think I'm trying to wear my Dad's boots. I guess the shoe thing started pretty early?]]>
I Feel Pretty...tag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12902012-02-15T09:02:28Z2012-02-15T09:09:23Z Many thanks to everyone who has left a comment on my last post. Every word has helped me feel better about this little spot on the web. It even sort of motivated me to get the redesign done! So if you're reading this in a feed reader, click on over and take a look. It's not drastically different than the old design, but I re-wrangled some code so it's a little cleaner, the main...whitney
Many thanks to everyone who has left a comment on my last post. Every word has helped me feel better about this little spot on the web. It even sort of motivated me to get the redesign done!
So if you're reading this in a feed reader, click on over and take a look. It's not drastically different than the old design, but I re-wrangled some code so it's a little cleaner, the main content area is wider (which means the photos are larger!), and the navigation is now at the top of the page. I may do something more with the side bar, but I haven't figured out what yet. I also may mess with the header graphic some more (honestly, figuring out what I wanted that to look like was one of the hardest parts).
I'm just happy it's done, and I learned a few things in the process. Which I'll probably forget by the next time I re-design the site, but that's okay. That's what the google is for.
]]>
I Need an Internet Hugtag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12892012-02-13T23:39:29Z2012-02-15T07:11:31Z Last week was one of the busiest weeks I've had in a long time. I pretty much ignored the internet. Not because I wanted to, because I had to. I was even participating in one of those photo-a-day things, and I had to give up, despite really wanting to do it. But a little break from the internet is good, right? Sort of. I'm catching up on things today, and as I scroll through...whitney
Last week was one of the busiest weeks I've had in a long time. I pretty much ignored the internet. Not because I wanted to, because I had to. I was even participating in one of those photo-a-day things, and I had to give up, despite really wanting to do it.
But a little break from the internet is good, right?
Sort of. I'm catching up on things today, and as I scroll through blog after blog on my reader, I'm starting to feel...inadequate. Which has happened before, but it's hitting hard this time. I don't know what I'm doing here any more.
I'm actually in the middle of a blog re-design. I thought it might motivate me to post more, and I didn't want to post anything new until I had the new design in place. But it's taking longer than I thought it would (see aforementioned busiest week ever). And right now, I don't even now what that new content would be.
Should I talk about work more? I've been a graphic designer for almost 15 years, and while I really like what I do, I don't think I want to blog about it. I don't want to put together tutorials or show you what I've been working on. Heck, sometimes I can't show you what I've been working on (NDA and all that). And honestly, I don't know that you want to see the latest product brief I put together for some tech-y computer component.
I don't have kids to talk about. I have cats. But I don't want to talk about them all the time either (not that I mind reading about other people's pets).
I love to cook. I'm happy being in the kitchen, but if the sun has gone down, I don't take photos of what I'm doing. And a post about a recipe without a photo of the finished product just doesn't seem right.
I'm getting married this year. But I'm not ready to talk about that yet either.
I'm trying to not spend so much money on things like shoes, clothes, and glasses. So I'm not really buying or even browsing for much these days.
The only thing I do actually post on anymore is pinterest. But I figure if you read here, you probably follow me on pinterest, so why also post pinterest stuff here?
That doesn't leave much, does it?
I don't know what I have to offer the blogging community anymore, aside from over a decade's worth of mediocre personal blog archives.
Yeah, this is totally a "woe is me post". I know I keep saying I do this for me, but right now that doesn't seem to be enough, and I think I might need a friendly comment or two to help me out of this slump.
I'll get past this. I usually do, but my brain is stuck in glass-half-empty mode so I'm asking for help this time.
Help?]]>
Top Tentag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12882012-01-26T05:07:30Z2012-01-26T05:52:53Z It's time to play "Which CDs was Whitney Too Lazy to Remove from Her Car in 2011"! I'm exaggerating. A little. So here are my favorite albums from the year. Remember, that doesn't mean they were actually released this year, it just means these were on constant repeat around these parts. Who are we kidding. They were on repeat in my car, because honestly, that really is where I listen to almost all of...whitney
It's time to play "Which CDs was Whitney Too Lazy to Remove from Her Car in 2011"!
I'm exaggerating.
A little.
So here are my favorite albums from the year. Remember, that doesn't mean they were actually released this year, it just means these were on constant repeat around these parts. Who are we kidding. They were on repeat in my car, because honestly, that really is where I listen to almost all of my music (damn you, 6-disc CD changer).
Let's get on with it (in no particular order):
Bombay Bicyle Club - I Had the Blues But I Shook Them Loose
I don't remember how I found these guys...it might have been Pandora, but I fell hard for this album. It's catchy, but not catchy enough to hear it all over the radio. I still find songs getting stuck in my head though. It's been stuck in the car for the past 6 months, and as I'm gearing up for an actual CD switch, I may keep this one in there.
Beach Fossils - Self Titled and What a Pleasure
These may very well be my favorite find of 2011 (Thanks Turntable Kitchen!). They're mellow, surfy and shoegaze-y and apparently that's the prefect combination for me. I LOVE both of these albums. I can't pick a favorite. It doesn't help that I've got them both burned on one cd so they just blend together (in a totally good way).
Katie The Pest - This Giant Will Kill You
I discovered Katie the Pest on a compilation album five years ago and was instantly hooked. In that time, I think this CD has left the disc changer in my car for only a couple of months. This may be one of my "desert island" records. They're a little bit grunge, but still lady-like and damn can they play. I sing along with every song at the top of my lungs (that may be why I love this album so much).
Lykke Li - Wounded Rhymes
Another one I found through Turntable Kitchen, and I'm so glad I did. I don't know how else to describe this album except BIG. The music fills my car, and I love it. It's another one I sing along with all the time.
Gotye - Like Drawing Blood
The boy-fiance became a bit obsessed with Gotye late last year, and once I heard him, so did I. We played "Somebody that I Used to Know" over and over again, but since the album wasn't out at the time, I bought this one. We listened to it over and over again and it amazes me how one album can cross so many genres but still feel like it all goes together. I think this may be Gotye's thing though. I'm listening to the latest album as I type, and it's got the same kind of vibe.
Andrew Bird - Noble Beast
I hope I'm not the only one that does this: buy/download a cd, listen to it once, and forget about it. Then months later discover a song in a commercial or movie credits and realize it's on an album you already own. This album has been sitting almost unlistened to in iTunes, and then a few months ago I discovered "Tenousness" playing during the credits of "Crazy Stupid Love" and now I can't get enough Andrew Bird. I guess it's a good thing I already had some.
The Drums - Portamento
After I became obsessed with Beach Fossils last year, I went in search of more surfy/shoegaze music and found The Drums. They're a bit more poppy than Beach Fossils but they still fit the bill and I couldn't be happier.
Beirut - The Rip Tide
I was so excited when this album came out, and while it took a little while for me to warm up to it, it was worth the effort. There's a reason it's still in the car's disc changer (and it's not due to laziness).
Thao - We Brave Bee Stings and All
Yet another "sing along at the top of your lungs in the car" album (I guess I kind of like those). If I was ever having a bad day, the song "Bag of Hammers" never failed to help cheer me up. I may need to put this one back in the car!
My preferred place to buy music is Amazon, so that's where all those albums link to. Go have a listen and discover some new-to-you music!]]>
Weekends Awaytag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2012://1.12872012-01-09T06:58:10Z2012-02-15T09:01:44Z Remember that Kickstarter project I mentioned? They reached their goal! I couldn't be more excited! Crap-free popsicles for everyone! Hooray! This weekend's other great happening was leaving the cats alone for 24 hours (aside from someone coming to feed them), and arriving home to find everyone still had fur and eyeballs! The boys, much to my dismay, like to get in little (and sometimes not so little) scuffles every so often, and I've been...whitney
Remember that Kickstarter project I mentioned? They reached their goal! I couldn't be more excited! Crap-free popsicles for everyone! Hooray!
This weekend's other great happening was leaving the cats alone for 24 hours (aside from someone coming to feed them), and arriving home to find everyone still had fur and eyeballs! The boys, much to my dismay, like to get in little (and sometimes not so little) scuffles every so often, and I've been worried about leaving them alone for more than 8 hours. It's a relief to know that they were on good behavior (as far as I can tell) while we were gone.
I'm still recovering from a week away visiting my mum and this weekend's visit to the in-laws, but stay tuned for my top 10 albums from 2011 (the 2010 post is over here) and a review of some Amy Sacks frames!]]>
It Goes to Eleventag:www.uglygreenchair.com,2011://1.12862011-12-31T22:53:27Z2011-12-31T23:02:19Z Eleven years ago today, I wrote my very first entry on this blog. ELEVEN! I, of course, had no idea I'd still be doing this eleven years later, but here we are. I try and do all this for me. I do actually go back and re-read the things I've written here, to see what was going on then or to sometimes look up a recipe. Though, I think the fact that I've been...whitney
Eleven years ago today, I wrote my very first entry on this blog. ELEVEN!
I, of course, had no idea I'd still be doing this eleven years later, but here we are.
I try and do all this for me. I do actually go back and re-read the things I've written here, to see what was going on then or to sometimes look up a recipe. Though, I think the fact that I've been doing it for as long as I have is because of all of you! Thank you to everyone who reads and leaves comments. This little blog wouldn't be the same without you.
Happy eleventh birthday Ugly Green Chair!]]>
You probably could have seen it coming, so it's not going to be a surprise when I tell you I'm kind of obsessed with Instagram.
Using it on my phone is way different than the "cheater" method I was using and oh boy, do I understand the hype. Yes there are tons of other photo filter apps out there, but they're not exactly like Instagram and if you don't get it, then don't use it.
After using it for a couple of weeks, here's what I've found:
The Good:
Two things:
1. Instagram for Android Coming Soon
2. Remember how I got "kicked off the island" last summer? I started contracting pretty soon after that. Today was my first official day as an employee at the same place. I like the people, and I like the company. It's all good.
The Bad:
I've been dealing with a family issue for the past 2 weeks and mentally, all I've really been able to do is go to work, go home, and sleep. I haven't picked up the camera or posted a photo and I haven't really been on the internet that entire time (aside from a little Google+). Every day sort of feels a bit more normal, but it may be a while before I feel like participating in the internet as much as I was.
So that's what's going on with me.
I'm hoping Instagram for Android will launch soon, because that would be a lovely distraction, but I'm not holding my breath for that.
Edited to add: I guess someone out there heard me because Instagram for Android is in the Google Play store today! (Many, many thanks to JM for the tip!)]]>
I can only keep a photo of my mug as the top post for so long, so it's the perfect time to post a flower photo. ]]>
Just a quick note to let you know that Coastal Contacts is having a big 'ol sale right now. If you need (or want) frames, most of them are only $38, so now is the time to order!
Both the pairs I'm wearing in the photo above are from Coastal. So far I'm impressed. While they tend to be a bit pricier than some of my other online frame haunts (I did not pay $38 for them), the quality seems to be good, my prescription was right, they came in a nice case (which included a cleaning cloth and a little eyeglass screwdriver thingie), and they shipped super fast!
The sale ends March 19th, so jump on it!
(I have not been offered a damn thing to say any of this, but as the self-proclaimed online eyeglasses maven, I feel it's my duty to tell you these things.)]]>
So the big Instagram announcement? It happened on Sunday and the result? The android version will be here "very soon" (according to this article over on Mashable Tech). This is good news! Not as awesome as the actual app being ready now, but I think I can live with "very soon". (Dear Instagram, if you need android beta testers, I'm your gal!)
On a totally unrelated note, I attempted to make gluten-free lemon bars this weekend. I used coconut flour in the crust (instead of regular flour), and they turned out kind of "meh". The crust texture is crumbly and dense at the same time and it's just...not right. I made them Saturday night and the fact that we still have over half the pan left is quite telling (if neither one of us wants to eat them, you know they're not very good). I think I might try again with some all purpose gluten-free flour and see if they turn out better. The whole point of making them was to use up the surplus of lemons in the fruit bowl, so I might as well make some more, right? Right. If they turn out okay, I'll be sure to let you know.]]>
For the past, oh year or so, there's a phrase I've been googling every couple of weeks:
"instagram for android"
Late last year there was some article where they mentioned it was being worked on, but no mention of when it might be ready. Well, I just googled it again and there's speculation that the Android version might launch at SXSW this week. Which would be completely and utterly awesome. But it would also make everything I'm about to tell you kind of pointless.
I found a way to sort of cheat on Instagram. The thing is, I have an iPad, so I downloaded the app. But I have the "old" iPad which doesn't have a camera. Last year, I had devised a way to get photos on Instagram by a very complicated procedure using drop box on my phone and the iPad. BUT! A couple of weeks ago, I realized that by using the FlickStackr app I can easily save photos to the iPad, and then upload them to Instagram!
So, it's not ideal. And it's still a bit of a process (take photo with phone, upload to flickr, save to iPad, upload to Instagram), but it's easy enough that I've actually been able to put a few photos on my account. Which has only made me want the app more. So I really REALLY hope the Instagram folks announce something android related at SXSW. Otherwise I may have to break down and actually get an iPhone, and that would be more trouble than cheater Instagram.]]>
You know what we haven't talked about in a while? My hair.
Let's do this.
So, August 2009, after attempting to grow out a pretty short 'do and getting very frustrated in the process, I shaved my own head. I think the timing was off, and I just wasn't ready to deal with growing it out. I continued to cut my own hair until May of last year. That's when I finally felt ready to grow it out.
I admit, the short hair was easy. REALLY easy. But you don't have a lot of styling options. I had reached a point where I wanted to have the option to put it up or leave it down. So I left it alone and let it grow. Well, not entirely. I did go get a trim from a stylist recommended by a friend (the hair had been approaching mullet territory), and I've messed with my bangs a little bit. The photo you see above is pretty much where we're at now. The hair is shoulder length, and I've reached a hair goal!
After many months of my only up-do hairstyle being pigtails, I'm now able to put it up into two little messy buns! Hair achievement unlocked! I can also get it into a pony tail, but I'm much more excited about the buns.
They're actually made possible by the super amazing Goody Mini Spin Pins
. I guess they do the work of 20 bobby pins, and I absolutely believe it. I usually have a hard time getting clips and pins to work in my hair because there's so much of it. But the spin pins hold it in place (2 per bun, FYI)! It's taken a little work for me to figure out the best configuration for them (one has to secure the end of the bun and the other has to secure the middle), but once they're in? They're IN. And they stay there all day. Sometimes they're a little bit looser by the end of the day, but they're still up! I'm guessing that if I chose to use some sort of styling product with hold, they might not loosen up, but I'd rather take my chances and go product-free. The spin pins come in a regular size too, which I think works for larger buns and other up 'dos. If you purchase some and aren't quite sure what to do with them, check YouTube - there are a bunch of video tutorials!
So yeah, I'm super excited about the buns! I'm also finally starting to think about going in for another trim because the ends are pretty frizzy and I think it could be cleaned up a little. But I don't want to lose my buns! So I'm going to wait a little bit longer. I'm still not sure how long I actually want to let it grow, but since I've made it this far, I feel like I gotta keep going! This is the longest it's been in almost seven years!!]]>
I don't talk about the boys much. I recognize that not everyone wants to hear about my cats. Even though they're AWESOME. (Not like I have a biased opinion or anything.)
This is the thing though. We hadn't intended on adopting a second cat, he just sort of happened (as they sometimes do). And we though that Miles, being the very mellow dude he turned out to be, would be pretty accepting of a younger step-brother. And I suppose they do tolerate each other, but I don't think they really like each other all that much. Which makes me a little sad. I don't really want to write about my sad cats.
It's sort of a love/hate relationship, I guess. I think they like to play together and attack each other, but it quickly dissolves into a fight. I think I've probably mentioned that Monk is kind of a whiner, so these little tiffs sounds worse than they probably are, but it's hard not to react to a bunch of screeching and yowling coming form a mass of tumbling fur. We know it also happens when we're not here. Many times we've come home to someone missing a collar and little tufts of fur on the kitchen or living room floor.
Our latest way to break up the fights is to simply separate them. The almost-husband (that's my new name for the boy-fiance, btw) takes one cat and I take the other, and we close the door that separates the living room and the rest of the apartment and just let them chill out a little. But after a few minutes? They both end up on either side of the closed door. It's like they hate each other but dear god, don't SEPARATE THEM. Weirdos.
But! Saturday morning I came home from dance class, and found them both in the Poang chair. Miles was cleaning Monk's head, and he was tolerating it! Well, for a little while, anyways. He eventually ended up biting Miles on the leg. So Miles stopped licking Monk's head, but they both just sat there. And they stayed like that long enough for me to take a few photos with my phone and the big camera.
It gave me a little hope. It may have taken almost a year and a half, but it feels like maybe, someday, they'll be buddies. It might take another year and a half, but that's okay. Maybe then I'll become the crazy cat lady blogger that I know I've got the potential to be! I know you can't wait.]]>
For Christmas this year, my brother gave me a pair of mouse ears. Well, first, he gave me a gift certificate that was wrapped in a package that looked like mouse ears. Then, for fun, he decided he might as well get me a pair of real mouse ears too.
See, there's a thing about mouse ears in my family. And it's not because we're Disney people (not that there's anything wrong with that).
My brother is almost exactly 2 years younger than me. When he was born (the day after my birthday), my parents gave me a pair of Mickey Mouse ears, and they said they were from him. Apparently I LOVED them and would not let anyone remove them from my head unless I was going to sleep. LOVE!
So when my brother gives me mouse ears? It's kind of a big deal. As you might imagine, the current pair are not as permanently attached to my head (they're sitting on the dresser though, just waiting for me to wear them at any moment).
Also, the photo on the left? I think I'm trying to wear my Dad's boots. I guess the shoe thing started pretty early?]]>
Many thanks to everyone who has left a comment on my last post. Every word has helped me feel better about this little spot on the web. It even sort of motivated me to get the redesign done!
So if you're reading this in a feed reader, click on over and take a look. It's not drastically different than the old design, but I re-wrangled some code so it's a little cleaner, the main content area is wider (which means the photos are larger!), and the navigation is now at the top of the page. I may do something more with the side bar, but I haven't figured out what yet. I also may mess with the header graphic some more (honestly, figuring out what I wanted that to look like was one of the hardest parts).
I'm just happy it's done, and I learned a few things in the process. Which I'll probably forget by the next time I re-design the site, but that's okay. That's what the google is for.
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Last week was one of the busiest weeks I've had in a long time. I pretty much ignored the internet. Not because I wanted to, because I had to. I was even participating in one of those photo-a-day things, and I had to give up, despite really wanting to do it.
But a little break from the internet is good, right?
Sort of. I'm catching up on things today, and as I scroll through blog after blog on my reader, I'm starting to feel...inadequate. Which has happened before, but it's hitting hard this time. I don't know what I'm doing here any more.
I'm actually in the middle of a blog re-design. I thought it might motivate me to post more, and I didn't want to post anything new until I had the new design in place. But it's taking longer than I thought it would (see aforementioned busiest week ever). And right now, I don't even now what that new content would be.
Should I talk about work more? I've been a graphic designer for almost 15 years, and while I really like what I do, I don't think I want to blog about it. I don't want to put together tutorials or show you what I've been working on. Heck, sometimes I can't show you what I've been working on (NDA and all that). And honestly, I don't know that you want to see the latest product brief I put together for some tech-y computer component.
I don't have kids to talk about. I have cats. But I don't want to talk about them all the time either (not that I mind reading about other people's pets).
I love to cook. I'm happy being in the kitchen, but if the sun has gone down, I don't take photos of what I'm doing. And a post about a recipe without a photo of the finished product just doesn't seem right.
I'm getting married this year. But I'm not ready to talk about that yet either.
I'm trying to not spend so much money on things like shoes, clothes, and glasses. So I'm not really buying or even browsing for much these days.
The only thing I do actually post on anymore is pinterest. But I figure if you read here, you probably follow me on pinterest, so why also post pinterest stuff here?
That doesn't leave much, does it?
I don't know what I have to offer the blogging community anymore, aside from over a decade's worth of mediocre personal blog archives.
Yeah, this is totally a "woe is me post". I know I keep saying I do this for me, but right now that doesn't seem to be enough, and I think I might need a friendly comment or two to help me out of this slump.
I'll get past this. I usually do, but my brain is stuck in glass-half-empty mode so I'm asking for help this time.
Help?]]>
It's time to play "Which CDs was Whitney Too Lazy to Remove from Her Car in 2011"!
I'm exaggerating.
A little.
So here are my favorite albums from the year. Remember, that doesn't mean they were actually released this year, it just means these were on constant repeat around these parts. Who are we kidding. They were on repeat in my car, because honestly, that really is where I listen to almost all of my music (damn you, 6-disc CD changer).
Let's get on with it (in no particular order):
Bombay Bicyle Club - I Had the Blues But I Shook Them Loose
I don't remember how I found these guys...it might have been Pandora, but I fell hard for this album. It's catchy, but not catchy enough to hear it all over the radio. I still find songs getting stuck in my head though. It's been stuck in the car for the past 6 months, and as I'm gearing up for an actual CD switch, I may keep this one in there.
Beach Fossils - Self Titled
and What a Pleasure
These may very well be my favorite find of 2011 (Thanks Turntable Kitchen!). They're mellow, surfy and shoegaze-y and apparently that's the prefect combination for me. I LOVE both of these albums. I can't pick a favorite. It doesn't help that I've got them both burned on one cd so they just blend together (in a totally good way).
Katie The Pest - This Giant Will Kill You
I discovered Katie the Pest on a compilation album five years ago and was instantly hooked. In that time, I think this CD has left the disc changer in my car for only a couple of months. This may be one of my "desert island" records. They're a little bit grunge, but still lady-like and damn can they play. I sing along with every song at the top of my lungs (that may be why I love this album so much).
Lykke Li - Wounded Rhymes
Another one I found through Turntable Kitchen, and I'm so glad I did. I don't know how else to describe this album except BIG. The music fills my car, and I love it. It's another one I sing along with all the time.
Gotye - Like Drawing Blood
The boy-fiance became a bit obsessed with Gotye late last year, and once I heard him, so did I. We played "Somebody that I Used to Know" over and over again, but since the album wasn't out at the time, I bought this one. We listened to it over and over again and it amazes me how one album can cross so many genres but still feel like it all goes together. I think this may be Gotye's thing though. I'm listening to the latest album as I type, and it's got the same kind of vibe.
Andrew Bird - Noble Beast
I hope I'm not the only one that does this: buy/download a cd, listen to it once, and forget about it. Then months later discover a song in a commercial or movie credits and realize it's on an album you already own. This album has been sitting almost unlistened to in iTunes, and then a few months ago I discovered "Tenousness" playing during the credits of "Crazy Stupid Love" and now I can't get enough Andrew Bird. I guess it's a good thing I already had some.
The Drums - Portamento
After I became obsessed with Beach Fossils last year, I went in search of more surfy/shoegaze music and found The Drums. They're a bit more poppy than Beach Fossils but they still fit the bill and I couldn't be happier.
Beirut - The Rip Tide
I was so excited when this album came out, and while it took a little while for me to warm up to it, it was worth the effort. There's a reason it's still in the car's disc changer (and it's not due to laziness).
Thao - We Brave Bee Stings and All
Yet another "sing along at the top of your lungs in the car" album (I guess I kind of like those). If I was ever having a bad day, the song "Bag of Hammers" never failed to help cheer me up. I may need to put this one back in the car!
My preferred place to buy music is Amazon, so that's where all those albums link to. Go have a listen and discover some new-to-you music!]]>
Remember that Kickstarter project I mentioned? They reached their goal! I couldn't be more excited! Crap-free popsicles for everyone! Hooray!
This weekend's other great happening was leaving the cats alone for 24 hours (aside from someone coming to feed them), and arriving home to find everyone still had fur and eyeballs! The boys, much to my dismay, like to get in little (and sometimes not so little) scuffles every so often, and I've been worried about leaving them alone for more than 8 hours. It's a relief to know that they were on good behavior (as far as I can tell) while we were gone.
I'm still recovering from a week away visiting my mum and this weekend's visit to the in-laws, but stay tuned for my top 10 albums from 2011 (the 2010 post is over here) and a review of some Amy Sacks frames!]]>
Eleven years ago today, I wrote my very first entry on this blog. ELEVEN!
I, of course, had no idea I'd still be doing this eleven years later, but here we are.
I try and do all this for me. I do actually go back and re-read the things I've written here, to see what was going on then or to sometimes look up a recipe. Though, I think the fact that I've been doing it for as long as I have is because of all of you! Thank you to everyone who reads and leaves comments. This little blog wouldn't be the same without you.
Happy eleventh birthday Ugly Green Chair!]]>