You know how I love photographing the moon! Here is one of my most recent shots. Its been very rainy her in B-more lately, so I was happy to snap this photo at my parents house in PA a few days ago. I cant wait to get some moon shots from Ireland!

As promised ages ago, here are some shots of my Paris travel journal. I've finally added some photos I got developed after the trip, and I still intend on going back and embellishing some of the pages.
 I used on old blank ledger book I found at an antique shop as my journal. It was in perfect condition, and still had strong binding, so I thought it would be perfect to handle all of the things I add to my journals. And, I knew it would withstand the test of time. I cant wait to read over my journal over the years!

The days are really flying by now! In four short days I'll be on a plane bound for Ireland.  All alone (gulp)!

The truth is I've had my suitcase out in the corner of my room for about a month now.  As soon as I confirmed the trip I started adding little things I wanted to bring along as I stumbled across them. And at one point my suitcase did indeed look like the Leaning Tower if Piza- sweaters dont condense well, and I do love a good sweater. Especially in Ireland :)
But I finally came to my senses an realized I was going just a bit overboard. I spent last night re-grouping and doing some mix-and-matching of outfits. Im now proud to report that my two stacks of cloths (tops and bottoms) are down to about 4 items each.  I know thats all I'd end up wearing anyway, so I feel good about making the decision now!
Two things have me totally stumped though; shoes and purse. REALLY stumped. Particularly with the bag. It needs to be big enough to hold my camera in its bag, a guidebook and my wallet at all times. Thats a big bag! Take a peek at my ideal solution:

Amazing old english documents can now be found in the shop. AMAZING!

Last night, I spent some time working on a collage. I feel like I have a good foundation, but im ready to add some pazazz! I'll keep you posted. One things for sure- it felt great to be creative!

And of course I had a photo shoot with the moon again. He's so great at his poses :)

Today after visiting the sunflower fields, I stumbled into a new antique store.  Literally, I looked across the street, and there it was! Dont you love when things like that happen!!

Among other fabulous treasures,  I found an old collection of fans. I couldn't resist picking a few out- I think they are so beautiful!

Three can now be found in my vintage shop :)

I spent the evening making drawer labels for my studio. They were so much fun, and way more attractive then the print out labels you get from a label maker :)

Today I traveled to Washington D.C. to spend the day at the museums. I had been wanting to make the solo trip for over a year, and finally created time in my busy schedule to go. Plus, I figured it would be good practice for Ireland...


Although the day got off to a rocky start regarding the metro and public transportation, I decided not to let it ruin my day, (although I was this close to turning my car around and heading home) and now I'm so glad I stuck it out! The day was beautiful and clear, I got to relax, and take advantage of living within an hour of our nations capital.
One of the museums I spent lot of time in was the National Gallery of Art. Surprisingly I found myself most enjoying the Dutch painting, primarily the still-life's (still-lives?). For as long as I can remember I have been an impressionist girl, but things are a-changing! No matter the style of painting, the National Gallery houses a beautiful collection of art.

While playing online this weekend you simply MUST stop by moms new website- KathyBarrick.com.

It is simply stunning! A friend of mine, Chelsea, designed it for her and did a fabulous job. Mom has been debuting all of her latest pieces over the last few days, and they are TDF = to die for!!! She is so talented, and finds the best treasures. Congratulations kbd, it looks amazing!

Kathy and I off to the Baltimore Antique show today. Im hoping to find lots of treasures for all you crafters out there, and maybe some home decor goodies. Particularly wood type blocks and signage both large and small.

And, did you realize there are less than four months until Christmas. WOAH!

I have a deep love for quotes, especially the poignant ones that seem to pop up at just the right time, and apply to your life perfectly.  You'll find my favorite quotes scribbled on my blackboards, scraps of paper, magnets, cards, and notebooks. I thought I'd share them with you as I stumble upon new ones. Surely I'm not the only quote lover out there :) 

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams; live the life you 've imagined...


Be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars. In the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.   -Ehrmann



Only one more day in the week! Hope your all looking forward to a long weekend like I am. Be sure to check back for an Ireland update. Less than a month until I leave!

P.S-
You learn something new everyday. Im guilty of using words without knowing the official definition. Luckily, I think I was pretty accurate with this world.  Do you do that too??

poign·ant

   [poin-yuhnt, poi-nuhnt]  –adjective