Found #26

Alena Beljakova photography via: Beautiful Decay

I love these photographs by Alena Beljakova. Some are surreal, others are beautiful. Many involve people in unusual locations or costume. They are like some kind of strange film.

Analogue Landscapes via: Behance

I was delighted when I saw these photographs this week. There is something about unadulterated nature that takes my breath away. It's so much more beautiful than anything humans can create. This series of photographs has been taken by a variety of people along the Panamerican highway between Alaska and the Mexican border, I dream of this all the time. The American landscape is breathtaking.

via: Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab

O.K. This looks incredible. I found this a couple of weeks ago but I wanted to surprise C with a gift from here. I blurted out the secret though, so now I can share it with you! This laboratory specializes in themed perfumes which look (sound?) (smell? - I can't qualify that yet) incredible! There's a whole section of H.P. Lovecraft themed scents including:
"The Deep Ones" - Black algae, drooping seaweed, salty brine, and crushed coral.
A more appetizing sounding combination is "Arkham" A shadowy, unapproachable forest of maple, birch, dogwood, cypress and pine softened by a garland of New England wildflowers: bergamot, columbine, rue anemone, blue violet, creeping phlox, bloodroot, toadflax, and pixie moss. 
They also have Labyrinth themed scents, I would without a doubt go for "Jareth" Ethereal lilac fougere and gleaming leather with ti leaf, tonka absolute, white musk, and oudh.
And finally, they have.... *drumroll* Fraggle Rock fragrances. It's almost too much to bear! I want everything!

Suspiria still via: Behind Ballet

The Behind Ballet blog has a 'styling dance' feature and this time it's based on the film Suspiria. It's a visually striking film from Dario Argento, I was lucky enough to see it on the big screen a year or two ago. If you check the link you can see what Hila Shachar styled based on the film. If you aren't perturbed by horror films (it's more psychological than gory horror, although Dario Argento does love splashing blood around, it was the 70's after all) I highly recommend this film. It's pretty good, it has a surreal David Lynch type atmosphere to it. Speaking of David Lynch, I watched Blue Velvet this week for the first time (I know...) I really enjoyed it. I was wondering if Dennis Hopper's resemblance to David Lynch in the film was intentional? If so, I'm scared of David Lynch and his feelings toward blue velvet robes.

image via: NPR - Stefano Giovannini/Courtesy of the artist

I don't usually post about music. I'm not sure why, it's a really big part of my life. Anyway, for some background, I have a really wide taste in music from classical to country (only the old stuff in case you're wondering) to noisy screeching guitars and gentle folk songs. I'm pretty excited that Cat Power has a new album out, she is and artist that I really enjoy. You can listen to the entire album right now on NPR. I've only heard the first song, I thought I'd save it for the weekend. I hope you enjoy, she's one talented lady.

Katrina from Pugly Pixel has written a guest post on Design Editor this week about time management. Do you get the idea that I lap these kind of posts up? I'm hoping all the information goes into my subconscious and I will start applying to life one step at a time until everything is calm, peaceful and organised like a Zen garden. I can dream, right?

August (and July) in Review

I cannot believe that August is over. I think I've just finished playing catch up from July! There was no monthly review for July, because quite frankly, I didn't really want to talk about it. It was a pretty tough month with the sudden loss of my beautiful cat Hobbes, and besides that fact I had the flu and also went on holiday. Oh, and I got engaged (that is certainly the best thing that happened but no kind of excuse). It was kind of hectic! Some of my happiest and saddest moments of my life so far. Thanks for putting up with my scattered blogging topics and disorganization. While I'm at it, welcome to all my new followers (?) - friends that have come along, your support means a lot! I have so many great plans for the rest of this year, as well as a more focused and planned blogging schedule. I can't wait to show you everything I have in store ~ Now that is out of the way, here are some of my favourite posts from the last little while.

What I wore // Green Eyed Cats

I launched my Etsy Shop (finally)

The first post in a series on Photography and Photo Editing

I wrote my Womanifesto

My awesome (lovely) package exchange with my new friend in Spain, Marina!

What I wore // Hey Little Apple Blossom

What I Wore // Orange

Friday the 13th Found

My first on-the-blog recipe - Strawberry and Rhubarb Crumble

I don't think you want to hear all about my life over the past couple of months. Nothing exciting in particular has been happening and I have been working long hours and not having enough sleep. As usual, I'm trying to do too much (I sound like a broken record, don't I?). I've found it a good distraction from my big sadness over Hobbes, but it's time to be a grown up and take care of myself!

I think with some careful planning and preparation, and enforced 'free time' I can conquer this, so that is my goal for September. More concrete goals include spring cleaning my house, planting some fresh vegetables and herbs in my garden (read: not dead ones like the current inhabitants). I would like to spend much more time with C, especially doing nice things like day trips and picnics, now that spring will be here. And finally, I'd like to keep expanding my shop, and another little (big?) project that I will share with you when the time is right!

Finally I thought I should let you know, the group ad-space giveaway at Take-Hart is still going on, for just 12 more hours if you'd like to win some ad space on this blog, plus 3 other great blogs.

My first giveaway for Kitty & Buck on etsy is on over at Bubby and Bean, so if you'd like to win not only $20 to my store, but 10 prizes worth $250, you should head over there right now! That one ends September 3rd.

Are you all finding this year is going exceptionally fast? I'd love to hear your goals and plans for the rest of the year if you care to share?

What I Wore - Hey Little Apple Blossom

These photos have been patiently waiting to see the light of day! They are from this day, when C and I went wandering through some quiet back streets of Sydney. You might remember me wearing this dress earlier in the year, albeit with less layers!

The photos in this post were taken with two different cameras, and the original pictures were so distinctly different, I wasn't sure they'd be able to be posted together. But I think I go them fairly cohesive. The blossom tree ones are taken with my Lumix GF1 with 20mm 1.7 pancake lens and all other images are taken with the Nikon D7000 with 50mm 1.4 lens. Oh, and C took all the photos, aside from the branch below.

How adorable is this Rainbow Lorikeet? We spotted him cruising along Oxford Street attached to his lady owner's hand and she let C take some pictures. I love the image on the left, where he has just spotted his own handsome self in the shop window! He broke free and raced inside, hoping for some action from that good looking bird! Poor guy :)

In Love Indeed Dress // Modcloth (old)

Chambray Skirt (under dress) // American Apparel

BDG Classic Cardigan // Urban Outfitters

Cat Scarf // Alannah Hill (very old)

Biker Jacket // Thrifted (Gift from Hurwundeki, London)

Tights // We Love Colors

Boots // Wanted (?!) from many years ago.

Betsy Mustard Camera Bag // Jo Totes

Meet The Sponsors - August Part 2

I hope you enjoyed the first collection of sponsors for August. I have another equally amazing group to introduce to you today. If you like the sound of them, make sure you visit their shops and blogs!

Blog // Facebook // Bloglovin'

Hello! I'm Jessie from My Mod Style. My blog used to only focus on Interior Design, but I have branched out to so much more over the years.  I love sharing bits of my life with my readers and things that I am passionate about. I love inspiring people and making them smile. Some of my interests and blog topics are saving whales, animals, being vegan, the environment, thrifting, fashion, photography, decorating, my travels and just whatever else I feel like at the moment. Isn't that what is great about blogging? You get to be you! I love connecting with people who have the same interests and passions as I do. I believe in living life to the fullest and making the most out of everyday. Please come by my blog and say hello.

What do you do to recharge and relax?

I think a vacation is the best thing really. Not a very unique answer, but true. My husband and I are headed to Disney World in September and can't wait! We need to get away and just have fun.

How do you like your eggs cooked?

Well, I used to eat them scrambled. Now that I am Vegan, I don't eat anything that comes from an animal at all. Just the smell or sight of eggs makes my stomach turn!! It's amazing how your tastes change once you give it all up. I don't miss eggs at all!

 Blog // Facebook // Pinterest

I'm Sarah - a mom, wife,  nerd, and lover of all things food. I blog at Fantastical Sharing of Recipes. My main goal is to share recipes that anyone could make. I love to share other food blogs and their recipes too - after all, sharing is caring! I cook up, what I like to call, "normal" food. It's not necessarily diet-friendly, but I strive to feed my family a variety of different foods and from scratch as much as possible, so it's a lot healthier than out-of-box meals and fast food.

What do you do to recharge and relax?

I love to read! I have always been a total bookworm and I love the escape a good story can provide :)

How do you like your eggs cooked?

I like my eggs scrambled and browned, even though in the culinary world that is burnt --or-- fried in a bit of bacon grease with some salt, pepper, and buffalo sauce.

Blog // Pinterest // Tumblr

Hi there Kitty and Buck readers! My name is Lindsay from The Lovely Things Are. I'm a college student studying to work as a creative in the advertising industry, particularly art direction. I blog a lot about daily life with hints of design and lovely things. The Lovely Things Are is constantly growing and adapting, so I hope you'll stop by and take my little blog journey with me!

What do you do to recharge and relax?

I love sitting back and watching netflix with a glass of wine or a blue moon. It definitely relaxes me and puts me in a great mood!

How do you like your eggs cooked?

My favorite way is probably hard boiled, but I've become more fond of scrambled in the past year.

Shop // Facebook // Pinterest

Hello! I'm Jen, an artist and blogger from Tasmania! Red Parka Diaries is a blog about illustration, design and living a creative, adventurous, sustainable, independent and remarkable life. It's a place for me to share what drives me and my inspirations,  the work of other creative entrepreneurs all over the world, as well as the odd recipe, travel story, DIY and tips for living well. It's a gorgeous little community of art + life lovers...  I'd love to see you there!

What do you do to recharge and relax?

Taking my dog for a long walk in the bush or at the beach always recharges me... I often get lost in front of the computer so getting outside for fresh air and exercise does wonders for my mood. And it's hard to beat a good novel in the bath with a glass of wine for relaxing!

How do you like your eggs cooked?

If I'm out at a cafe I'll usually order poached, especially if they come with hollandaise! But at home, my husband cooks the best cheesy scrambled eggs. I also occasionally indulge in my old favourite, a fried egg on a vegemite crumpet. My husband thinks it's disgusting but it's really really good!!

Blog // Twitter // Pinterest

My Billie is a lifestyle and design blog that focuses on encouraging others to live creative and beautiful lives!

What do you do to recharge and relax?

I'm actually reeeeally bad at "relaxing". I'm a hyper-active person! I can't even watch TV without doing two other things at the same time. Sleep is the only time where I sit still, so that's definitely my recharge and relaxing time (and even then I'm generally doing something until I fall asleep--hello instagram).

How do you like your eggs cooked?

I'm an egg fiend! I love eggs in all varieties, but have especially been enjoying them fried over pasta lately.

Blog // Twitter // Bloglovin'

Hi Friends, I'm Stephanie! Take-Hart is a personal blog devoted to my love of style, photography, bunnies, music, and last but not least: my husband, Nate! You'll find lots of photos of our daily life together, my outfits, our travels, and yes- our two sweet bunnies, Biscuit and Freckles. While Take-Hart is focused mainly on fashion and photography, I try my best to weave in honest pieces of my daily life. I love the idea that we as bloggers are a community and that this is a place to find strength, inspiration, and new friendships! I hope you'll stop by and say hello!

Facebook // Web // Blog

Swonderful Boutique is a cute & sassy boutique store in Wellington, NZ- the coolest little capital in the world! Swonderful is owned by Mother / daughter duo Ginny & Frances. Ginny & Frances design & make about 60% of the stock in their cute shop under their label Papercup. Papercup specializes in vintage inspired frocks & skirts but the ladies also design printed tees and totes which are all made locally in Wellington. Swonderful Boutique aims to embrace local, independent & emerging designers but most of all they aim to have fun doing what they love!

Blog // Web // Twitter

My name is Violet and I'm obsessed with photography, my puppy, decorating, food and my husband. I blog over at Blythe Ponytail Parades, a compilation blog featuring my photography and life! I love keeping my blog fresh and up to date, because in the long run, it's really a visual journal for myself documenting the wonderful things in life. 

What do you do to recharge and relax?

Hmmm, a lot of things. I don't have the time to watch movies anymore, so when I want to relax, I have movie marathons. That sounds SO wonderful right about now...

How do you like your eggs cooked?

Not super big on eggs, but I do LOVE LOVE LOVE deviled eggs. I never make them though. I just expect them at every pitch-in I go to ;)

Blog

I'm Allison and I'm 20.  I'm from Buffalo, NY, but really I live outside of the city towards the east.  I commute to my school (Buffalo State College) from home.  I'm currently working towards a B.F.A. in Metals/Jewelry, Design. Scribbles & Sketch is a lifestyle blog.  I'm interested in art, animals, photography, travel, food, and nature.  You might find these or a handful of other topics on my blog.  Enjoy!

Blog // Twitter // Facebook

Hi! I'm Rachel from Minnesota and I blog over at Swell and Stylish. I'm drawn to things with a little edge, unordinary ordinary things. Make sense? You'll see a lot of design, fashion, some life happenings and a little food over in my neck of the woods. Instead of breaking the bank buying all my finds, I've decided to just share them with you. I hope you'll stop by and say hello or maybe send me a link to something fabulous!

What do you do to recharge and relax?

I disconnect. I take a break from technology and spend loads of time with my family. I might over indulge on food and coffee too.

How do you like your eggs cooked?

Scrambled with chives, milk and sour cream. ..maybe topped with a little cholula hot sauce.. mmm!

Blog // Shop // Twitter

Hello, I'm Nat. I'm a blogger, graphic designer, font fanatic, dessert foodie and a bit of a daydreamer. I blog here at Modern Buttercup and enjoy writing about my daily doings, latest inspiration and whimsical things. I love pretty things and constantly inspired by the little things in life.
I live in beautiful California and proud owner of a little fishie named Bubbles. I enjoy finding cute vintage pieces to put on my shelf (my latest? A smiling pear) I love going on adventures and walking barefoot on the beach.

August Group Giveaway

I am so excited about this month's giveaway! I have four amazing prizes up for grabs, and I know you'll love all of them. I'll be doing the same thing as last time and drawing four winners, one for each prize, at random. There are lots of ways to enter, so make sure you earn as many entries as possible and good luck!

The prizes:
Hand Over Your Fairy Cakes is offering one lucky reader their choice of on of a Retro Ice Lolly necklace! These retro ice lolly necklaces are great for summer! Bright, iconic laser cut shapes on a white background and silver plated chain. Which one did you get from the ice cream van?!

Jessica-T has a new range (Peachy Keen SS12/13), and this amazing Masquerade Ribbon Necklace is one of the collection. Indulge in the decadence of the Masquerade Ribbon Necklace by Jessica T. Crafted from recycled wood in shades of caramel, this intricate laser cut necklace is a true statement piece. This piece is delicately hung from an ivory ribbon 35cm long on each side for easy length adjustments. Pendant size is 13cm length, 7cm height and 0.5cm width.

Top Right image via: Jessica-T

Julie from Can Soup Lover lives in the lovely city of Paris. Yes, the one in France ;) The wonderful prize is a vintage dress for one lucky reader, which Julie will shop for in Paris according to the winner's size and tastes!

Image Source(s) unknown - Please contact me if you own or know the owner of these images so that I can credit

Red Parka Designs is offering a $30 gift card to their gorgeous shop for one lucky reader! You can pick $30 worth of anything your heart desires from a Kombi x 8 print, a parliament of owls print or even some cute kitchen magnets!

If for some reason, the prize doesn't suit you, I will feel sorry that you can't use the prize you won and randomly pick the next person. Because it's random, I can't let anyone 'pick' their prize or swap prizes around once they are drawn. All makes sense? Good. Here's the Rafflecopter, you have 21 possible entries this time! Good Luck :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Photo A Day #177 Tea Time

C shot these pictures tonight while we were out to tea. Well, he had coffee, but I had a yummy green tea in a pretty floral cup. I feel a bit sad that the weekend is over, boo.

On a happy note, I have a giveaway going over at Take-Hart, you could win 3 months of a Small ad space on Kitty & Buck. Please head over to Stephanie's blog to enter if you're interested; it's not just me, there are 3 other blogs offering space too, it's a great giveaway! I also have another giveaway on a lovely blog coming up this week which I'll let you know about soon! And to keep going with the giveaway theme, I'll be hosting an amazing group giveaway with my August sponsors this week, so keep an eye out! Here's a clue: The necklace I'm wearing in these pictures could be yours!

Kitty
xo

Photo A Day #176 Green Thumb

I hate to admit it, but over winter, my garden has become an almost impenetrable jungle. All of my 'real' plants are dead, all of the weeds are thriving. The tiny leaves that drifted from the Jacaranda tree are embedded in everything. Bonsai plants have monster ferns growing from them and resemble full grown trees more than miniature ones. Sometimes I lose my cats in there. My garden is a small courtyard and a tiny patch of grass. Something had to be done. I was too ashamed to shoot proper 'before' pictures, plus the sunlight was harsh and terrible for taking photos, but you can see some snippets from my day here. I'm tired and sore and approximately 1/6 of the way clearing up the mess That doesn't even count planting my vegetables and herbs for spring.

These aren't from my garden, I bought them for C yesterday, and then found out that cats have a bad reaction to daffodils, so now they are in hiding :( Oops. It was Daffodil day though, and I always try to take part to donate some money for cancer research.

 Got my garden shoes on! Ready for action.

Maggie thought it would be wonderful to help me. The best way she could think of to help me was to eat random plants and sneak up behind me and brush her bushy tail on my arm as I was reaching into potential spider nests and other tangled mystery holes. This was obviously unnerving to me, but I'm sure she didn't mean it. Did she? I love how she bit this plant, and then licked it better. Silly kitty.

Nico was not to be outdone. She helped by climbing up onto the double decker herb patch and getting comfortable on my chives and rosemary (my only two plants that hadn't died yet) As you can see, in the front row we have some failed cos lettuce and on the right, struggling broccoli plants. In the distance, you can glimpse the mess I was dealing with. The cat grass pots had roots coming through the bottom and were fixed to the pavers. It was bad!

The fruits of my labor are now being enjoyed on the windowsill in my kitchen. I'll keep you updated on my garden as I progress. I really want to get my herb garden up and running, some beautiful flowers in pots and a hanging succulent garden! It's a lot of work, but hopefully I can get it done before it gets too late in the season.

I'm notoriously bad at growing things, but I have a good attitude this year, I'm sure I can make my garden work! Are any of you expert gardeners? I'd love to hear your tips for not killing plants, or good flowers that are colorful but not poisonous to cats.

Kitty
xo