Momathon Blog

Create It {Your Dream Job}

As an illustrator and a blogger, my work is never the same from day to day. I'll be honest here, sometimes that is a little scary because I don't have a precise template to follow. I have a shelf full of books on graphic design and art, but there will never be a guidebook with steps to follow that guarantees you—and your unique talents—will land the perfect job. That's why this saying really resonates in my life: 

Your dream job does not exist.
You must create it.

I also need to remind myself that producing the best work as a creative person means I need to step away from the studio and LIVE my life. That time is never lost time. It's the essential time for refueling my spirit so I have something interesting to share through pictures and words. 

That's exactly why going to a conference like Alt Design Summit is so important to me. At the Alt Summit conference, I was fortunate to meet Monica Lee and Melanie Burke and so many other amazing designers, artists, and bloggers. Hearing their ideas and sharing thoughts on design and blogging helps cultivate a creative spirit. 

Shortly before Alt, Monica Lee at Smart Creative Women interviewed graphic designer, educator and Alt speaker Melanie Burke from Fifth and Hazel. The interview gives a glimpse into how Melanie honed her skills as a designer and built her business. Check it out below. (And be sure to hop over to Monica's site to hear more interviews and also check out Melanie's design classes at Nicoles Classes.)

 

Video: The Monica Lee interview with Melanie Burke is part of the interview series on Monica's site Smart Creative Women.

Image: YOUR DREAM JOB graphic design is by me, Chris Olson and features a NYC skyline photograph by my son Kai Olson.

The Best Thing to Hold Onto in Life

I met the creative folks at Caravan Shoppe—Alma and Mike Loveland and Melanie Burk—over the weekend at the Alt Summit conference. Inside a packet of goodies they gave me was this amazing Audrey Hepburn "Hold On" quote print and many more lovely things. This quote has been a fave of mine for years and the friendly folks at Caravan embody the message.

You can check out my short Vine video for the rest of the goodies from Caravan. Have you tried the new Vine app yet? I'll have a post about the  Vine video app coming soon. 

Match That Monkey Memory Game by CaravanShoppe.com

Caravan Shoppe is a great place to find beautiful art—and best of all the art is affordable because you print it out for yourself. Easy peasy! Pay just once for the artwork, and you immediately receive the file as a download. Their instructions help you through the process of knowing how and where to print. They also have several articles on printing do’s and don’ts. 

2013 Calendar by CaravanShoppe.com

Free Olliblocks Valentine by CaravanShoppe.com

Want to try out the shop for free? They also have cute freebies at the shop. Do you like the Valentine cards or the Hold On print above?  Find the adorable Valentine's Day cards by Alma here. You can get a version of the Hold On print at the shop for a limited time. (Caravan’s Hold On print at the top of the post is a special print with ALL funds going directly to children based charities.)

To hear the latest Caravan Shoppe news and see their new creations go to their blog or like CaravanShoppe on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.

IMAGES: Top photo by me, the photos below via Caravan Shoppe.

TGIM: You Are in Charge

Hi friends! If you had told me a week ago that I would be practically bursting with new ideas, new questions, and new motivation, I never would have believed you. But thanks to the wonderful people at the Alt Summit SLC conference this weekend, I feel re-energized. (Is that really a word?) Well, you know what I mean... As a mentioned last week, I believe going to a class or conference is a great way to feed your creative spirit. I've got some links below to start the week.

Over the next month or so I plan on sharing some of the amazing ideas from the event. And I definitely hope to continue learning from all the new friends I made at the conference. Stay tuned :)

I can't talk about ALT without mentioning the awesome folks at Bing who made it possible for me to go. Yep, I was one of the incredibly lucky people to win a ticket! Thanks Bing! The image above was created by my wonderful new friends at Bing using a quote from this blog. How COOL is that!?!

Have a wonderful Monday. And choose happiness!

xo

Chris

Links to inspire

• If you attended ALT, check out Organize Your Inspiration & Get to Work by Sara and Top Tips for Alt Summit: When You Get Home by Melanie.
• I was fortunate to sit next to Jess Lively on the plane home from SLC. She has a great post today with a lovely image all about priorities and time.
• Do you ever feel a tad overwhelmed by all the great stuff out in the blogosphere? If you are a blogger here are Top 7 Tips For Finding Your Voice via Karen at chookooloonks
• I know this post is about the weekend, but Erin's ideas are wonderful for EVERY day use:  Happy {Cozy-Up} Weekend on Apartment34
• If you want to smile more, then read anything by Dooce. Today she writes: Someone in this house is not taking his Prozac. (Hint: One of my dogs does the same crazy things)
• And finally, if you crave lovely images here's some style inspiration: Sweet Look on Miss Moss. (I *need* the Earl Grey Cake right about now) and seriously dreamy fashion via Lookbook: Resort 2013 by Tory Burch.

City Dogs {Frenchies}

As you know, I love to draw dogs and I've added new products for dog lovers in my Society6 shop—everything from pillows, iPhone cases & skins, laptop skins, framed art prints, stretched canvases and more. Check out the pillow featured below here. If you order any items from my shop, you get free shipping—just you use this promo. (The free-shipping promo is available through December 9, 2012).

Above: City Dogs {Frenchies} Throw Pillow by Chris Olson at Society6.
The Society6 Throw Pillows are made from 100% spun polyester poplin fabric (giving it a nice cotton feel), a stylish statement that will liven up any room. Available in three sizes - 16", 18" and 20". Individually cut and sewn by hand (yes, the folks at Society6 are using their hands as usual), each throw pillow features a double-sided print of your artwork and is finished with a concealed zipper for ease of care and at a price that will impress your best collectors. For even greater affordability and options, the Throw Pillows are sold with or without a faux down pillow insert.

Below: more of my Society6 products featuring French Bulldogs including an iPad skin, iPhone case, and framed art.  

 

Images: CITY DOGS {FRENCHIES} graphics by me, Chris Olson, and feature my original artwork of French Bulldogs. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

Urban Spaces {Paley Park}

A small oasis in a busy city, Paley Park in Midtown Manhattan measures 4,200 square feet. Only a few feet away from a bustling 53rd Street, the air feels fresher here and the sounds of the city nearly evaporate. I took this photo a few weeks ago when the leaves on the honey locust tree were turning golden. When I look at the photo now, I almost feel the cool mist from the wall of falling water. 

 

Images: PALEY PARK graphic by me, Chris Olson, and features one of my photos of NYC. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

Bewitched

There is something about fall that makes me want to get outside more often with my camera. The light plays with shadows and builds contrast in a magical way. Even stark branches turn bewitching as the sun flirts with the landscape. 

CAPTURE THE LOOK
I shot this photo early in the day when the sun was coming up. It seems I am never outside without a dog pulling on a leash beside me. Today I had trouble keeping the camera steady on this image as my Peke pulled me in the opposite direction. To add some drama to the image, I shot the tree looking up into the branches.

When I opened the image up on my computer I thought of the Jane Austen quote. The book is a fave of mine and the last scene from the Pride and Prejudice movie is wonderful. I added the quote in Adobe Photoshop, but you could also use a simpler program. A fun way to start is by adding text to an Instagram image with a text app.

 

Image: BEWITCHED graphic by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

>•<  Connect on Facebook  >•<   

 

Just My Type {Calligraphy by Lindsay Letters}

Remember when they taught penmanship in school? Today with texting and everything digital it feels good to receive something hand written in the mail. As an illustrator I'm fond of hand lettering and calligraphy—especially the sweet artwork by Lindsay Sherbondy at Lindsay Letters. If you are interested in the process she uses to create her lovely lettering, you can find out all about her here. Of course if you want to buy something she created, go to her shop here. The super exciting part is Lindsay will be launching her NEW shop soon—check her tweets at @lindsay_letters for updates on the launch.

Imagine having Lindsay address your wedding invites. I've included samples of her handiwork below. Although it is tempting to call her up right now for custom lettering, you'll have to wait a bit to due to her new shop launch—she is  "not going to be taking any completely custom work, envelope addressing, or non-editorial hand lettering inquiries until after the holidays."

Lovely lettering on an envelope is my fave. 

Are you getting ready for the holidays already? I am—and I have holiday music on my iPad playing right now!!! I think I need to get the O Holy Night artwork Lindsay created. You can get the sweet O Holy Night canvas print by Lindsay here.

Images: Lindsay Letters images above feature the artwork by Lindsay. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post or to Lindsay's blog or her shop. Thanks!

>•<  Connect on Facebook  >•<   

 

 

 

Stationery Notes

As an illustrator and a fan of old-school snail mail, I am always on the look out for artwork on stationery. Here's this week's spotlight: Vigilante Paper.

Image: Graphic by me, Chris Olson, featuring photos of stationery by Vigilante Paper.

Nice to Meet You {A Linky Party for Bloggers}

Yay! It's Friday, and the 'Nice to Meet You' linky party officially begins. Today's question is: 

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO AT HOME?

OK, now it's your turn. Come and join the blog fun. Not sure what a linky party is? I think blogger Lindsay at Shrimp Salad Circus sums it up best:

"Well, it's party one of my very busy Friday, and it's a collaboration with a super-creative group of ladies I 'met' at one of the Alt Summit classes I told you about. We decided to try to introduce our readers to the whole group and get everybody together for some blog hopping. First, I'm going to show you six pictures of how I love to spend my time at home. When you get to the end, I'll tell you how to share your own blog!"

Do you like Alt Design Summit and their classes? I L-O-V-E them. Each class truly inspires me and I am meeting so many creative bloggers and designers. If you would like to meet some awesome bloggers in the ALT community, come join the fun. Browse the links below and join the fun. Directions for joining the party at the end of this post.

So go link-up! Visit some new blogs--see the list below. Meet some new friends! If you like someone's post, be sure to leave a comment saying, "It was nice to meet you!" If you link up, be sure to let your readers know by sharing the button below in your blog post or on your sidebar! And say HI and connect on my Facebook page and on Twitter.

One of the amazing things about blogging is the opportunity to meet interesting people in the blogging community. This summer I finally met my nephew's lovely bride Suzannah—she writes the splendid blog Adventures in Dressmaking—and I was so excited to find out she likes ALT too. This week Suzannah and some of her clever blogging friends are hosting the first link-up for the 'Nice To Meet You" group.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION?

In addition to Suzannah and Lindsay, Erika over at Foxtrot Press, Jeanette at Artchoo! and Lauren at Elleby Design have posts with lovely images to inspire you too! You can find a complete list of bloggers that are hosting the link-up party listed at the end of my post.

 

You can find out more about this linky party below.

Friday Notes: xo

It's obvious I heart dogs. The illustration above by me will be available in my shop LunaBlueStudio on Etsy this weekend. It's almost the weekend and here's a few lovely links for Friday:

Looking for  home decor inspiration, check out Reese Witherspoon’s sweet retreat in Ojai via Hooked on Houses and Elle Decor.

This refreshing chocolat-y dessert sounds delicious. See how to make it via Amy at She Wears Many Hats.

How to get that fab look that cost $515 for only a fraction of the price via the stylish Say Yes to Hoboken.

Image: I HEART DOGS graphic above is by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks! 

 >•<  Connect on Facebook  >•<  

 

Hello, August!

Oh my! It's hard to believe August is here already! At my house, August signals a change in routine. The kids go back to school. Days at the pool are numbered. I'll be sure to savor the leisurely pace before homework and stuffy classrooms take over.

Do you have special plans for August?

Of course, I will be watching the Olympics. Missy Franklin is from my home state of Colorado so I absolutely have to read and watch everything about her. She rocks! And I am kinda addicted to London. You can read more about my fascination with London here: Flower Drama in London and London Calling and The Story of the "Keep Calm and Carry On" Poster—or on my Facebook page.

Many of my blogging friends--and Martha Stewart!--are at BlogHer12 this week in NYC. I wish I was there, but thanks to Laurie at BlogHer at Home you can hear the scoop on the conference and make new BlogHer connections right at home. So cool. Hang out with awesome bloggers via @BlogHerAtHome on Twitter. And you can grab a BlogHerAtHome badge here. (And maybe Martha will blog about BlogHer here.)

 

Image: HELLO, AUGUST! photo graphic above is by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks! 

 >•<  Connect on Facebook  >•<  

 

 

It's So Etsy: "Love You More" Nursery Print

Are you creating a nursery? One sweet way to personalize your child's room is to add handcrafted wall art. I love the artwork by Sarah Jane Studios on Etsy and her adorable Love You More print would make a wonderful addition to a little girl's room. 

Sarah Jane is a mother of three small children, and as she says at her Etsy shop:

It always starts with a sweet "I Love You!" and it ends up turning into an "I love you more!" 

"Love You More" details:

• Art print created from a hand drawn & digitally colored original illustration 
• Giclée prints are archival printed on museum quality archival paper
• Ships flat in a protective sleeve within 3-5 days of payment
• Printed locally in the USA
• 8x10 print, $26
• Also available in 11x14” & 16x20” and as a poster print in 18x24”
• For other sizes & pricing go to www.sarahjanestudios.com

Follow Sarah Jane Studio updates on Twitter and Facebook. Check out her blog here.

 

>•< • >•<  Connect on Facebook >•< • >•<

Image: Graphics above by me, Chris Olson featuring the "Love You More" print by SarahJaneStudios on Etsy. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

She Believed She Could

It's final exam time. This saying is for my darling daughter:

She believed she could...

So she did!

 

You can find more quote and sayings artwork here.

Image above by me, Chris Olson.

 

Happy Thoughts from Winnie-the-Pooh

"Some people care too much. I think it's called love," says Winnie-the-Pooh.

 

Image: Wisdom by Winnie the Pooh. Art by me, Chris Olson. The role of Pooh played by the handmade and much-loved Honey Bear. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!

 

 

Remembering Maurice Sendak

But the wild things cried, “Oh please don’t go - we’ll eat you up - we love you so!”
And Max said, “No!”
The wild things roared their terrible roars and gnashed their terrible teeth
and rolled their terrible eyes and showed their terrible claws 
but Max stepped into his private boat and waved goodbye.” 

~Maurice Sendak
Where the Wild Things Are

 

Maurice Sendak's books will live forever, but we still miss him so!

(Image by Chris Olson featuring the fern photo by the awesome photographer D Sharon Pruitt.)

Money Can't Buy Happiness

 

If you can still remember how to think like a kid, then marshmallows = happiness.

Image above by me, Chris Olson with photography by the Luke Roberts.

A wonderful whimsical birthday card by my big brother

 
My brother Eric has been creating amazing illustrations since he was in kindergarten. My mom says one of his elementary school teachers loved his work so much she let him draw all day instead of doing his schoolwork. Not sure if this was the best teaching method, but fortunately he managed to pass that grade and go on to excel in almost anything he tried. Fast forward a couple of decades and he makes his living creating amazing things in his art studio. And one recently landed in my mailbox—a wonderful whimsical birthday card featured in the photo above. Since he knows I am a slave to several adorable dogs—even providing special doggy car seats for my canine crew—the card he created makes me smile.

Eric's illustrations have been featured in so many places I've lost count—from designer clothing sold at Target to fine china at Pottery Barn to book covers like A Book of Ages and Role Models. His illustrations have appeared in the New Yorker, McSweeney's, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, Spy, Oprah, the Atlantic, Harper’s, the New York Times, Travel & Leisure, Gourmet, Wig Wag, the Believer and other publications. You can check out his work on his blog er-h and his illustration website.

Keep Calm and Have a Cupcake (and Hug a Puppy)

Hello Friends! Hope you are having a lovely weekend. Remember to keep a happy thought in your heart.

Photos/Images by me, Chris Olson.

Wordless Wednesday: A teeny tiny world in stop motion video

 

 
Nokia 'Dot'

What happens in a microscopic stop motion adventure? Well, it's strange and beautiful--a sea of pencil shavings, a flower parachute, and knitting needle nails. If you like Wallace and Gromit videos, you'll enjoy this clever video by Sumo Science. 

Nokia 'Dot' from Sumo Science on Vimeo.

 

Photos: Screenshots from the lovely Nokia 'Dot' by Sumo Science.

Purrrfect design starts with a sketch (video)

The smartest--and smallest--details start with a sketch. Watch the design for a new fashion line come to life with a whimsical cat in the Jason Wu promo. Purrrfect!

 The sketch of Milu the cat comes to life on the desk of fashion designer Jason Wu. 

Equal parts mischief and cute, Milu the cat is the muse for this new line at Target. Perhaps his feline inspiration comes from the two cats Wu adores at home named Jinxy and Peaches.

The new Target collection by Jason Wu will be available from February 5 to March 6. His stylish and affordable items range in price from $19.99 to $59.99 for clothes and $19.99 to $49.99 for accessories.

(Photos from the Jason Wu for Target promotions.)

Are you in a creative slump?

 
My creative vision is big. I have no shortage of "great" ideas. Probably too many. And I tackle them all at once. This is not a time saver. This is a time waster. By three in the afternoon just when my creativity seems to be peaking, I have to slow down and juggle all those after-school activites. Working on so many creative pursuits often means my completed projects don't match my ambitions. Unfortunately, this is exactly when creative types like me end up procrastinating--or worse, quitting.

Here's the first truth about my creative process that I rarely admit: I am too easily distracted, but that is also how I think I get so many "great" ideas.

Here's the second truth: Even though I think I have good taste, I can't be an expert on everything. (Remember Nora Ephron's line from her movie Harry Met Sally: "Everybody thinks they have good taste and a sense of humor but they couldn't possibly all have good taste.") 

Sweet things you can print

Valentines come in all shapes and sizes. My faves are easy-to-make cards. This year I decided to make printables--easy to print PDF files that make it a snap to make as many as you want. 

Do you like to use printable cards and gift wrap? Here are the two newest items at my Salt and Paper Designs shop on Etsy:

Valentine Eiffel Tower PRINTABLE Pillow Box and Valentine HELLO LOVE and HELLO Printable Note Cards

DIY: Epsom Salt Snow Candles

After such a mild start to January, I am ready for some snow! I am hoping the storm this weekend brings a layer of the white stuff. Even if it doesn't snow, this sparkly DIY candle craft will create a shimmery winter mood in your home.

Espom Salt Snow Candle

Supplies: 

• Epsom salt
• Modge Podge
• Pillar candles--any color works, I like white or a light creamy color
• Shallow baking pan or a similar pan with edges

Directions:

1) Pour a layer of epsom salt into a shallow baking pan.

2) Use a sponge brush to coat the side of a candle with Modge Podge.

3) Before the Modge Podge dries, quickly roll the candle in the epsom salt to create a light snowy layer on your candle.

4) Let candle with snowy coating dry completely before using the candle.

5) To help the candle burn evenly, place the candle in a cylinder vase suitable for candles.

(Photo by me, Chris Olson.)

My new blog banner for December

 
Hello, December!

Are you counting down the days until the holiday break? December is always such a busy time at my house. The kids are putting the finishing touches on school projects and studying for exams before vacation begins. I just try to keep my head above water with work projects. Turning on some Christmas music usually makes the day less hectic and more relaxing!

Merry Christmas!

(December blog banner designed and illustrated by me, Chris Olson.)

Sweetest Postcard App: Great New Option for Holiday Cards

The new Cartolina Postale iPhone app is a visually beautiful iPhone app that turns screen eye candy into glossy postcards.

Here's the fun part, browse through the lovely design templates (32 styles to choose from) included in the iPhone app. Select the design you like and your customize card by adding your own photograph. The app is free, the fee for printing and mailing one one card is $1.99–a nice price for a custom card that is mailed in the U.S. (To have it mailed anywhere in the world the price is $2.99) The 4x6 cards are printed for you on glossy, heavyweight card stock and mailed directly from the app to anywhere in the world. Delivery times are about 3-7 days in the U.S. 

For more information, Cartolina Postale iPhone app.

(Photo: Cartolina Postale iPhone app via Cartolina)

It's so Etsy: New Esty App for the iPhone

If you love handmade crafts and vintage stuff, then the new Etsy app is a must-have app. Fun app features include: amazing photos of popular items in Treasury Lists, search function that almost reads your mind, access to your personal Etsy account, and much more. I just opened a new Etsy shop yesterday with another designer so this app has perfect timing!

My thoughts on the app:

• Easy to use.
• Sleek design.
• Eye candy for crafters.
• Addictive window shopping.

You can watch the clever Etsy video about the new app here.

Photo: Etsy promo photo on Etsy.com.

DIY: Ice blue collage

I created this ice blue collage above thanks to the artistic genius of Idée Labs. Below is a warmer collage with tropical blue hues.

I'll warn you, once you try Idee Labs for collages, you won't be able to stop making them. How does Idee do it? Just pick a color and Idee will use Piximilar visual search technology to extract your color pick from 10 million of the most "interesting" Creative Commons images on Flickr. Check it out!

On my desk

I am starting a new "on my desk" photo series to be posted each Friday. The photo subjects will vary, but each will feature items I am using in my illustration and design work.  

 

Hello, November

November is all about crisp almost wintry days. Blue skies and flying leaves. And of course, time to gather with family and give thanks. 

What are you thankful for?

(November blog banner by me, Chris Olson)

Aspens after the big snow

 

Yesterday we had a chilly and snowy October storm. The Aspen leaves were amazing encrusted in ice and snow.

Art by me, Chris Olson

After the snowstorm: What do you see?

 

Could this be a Rorschach snow-blot?

I see a horse. What do you see?

Although it's just random snow patterns on a piece of wood, it made me think of a Rorschach inkblot test.

Photo by me, Chris Olson

 

DIY: Vintage holiday ornament tutorial

Brrrrr! The snow is falling and even though the calendar says October it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas outside. Blame the snowflakes on my holiday craft mood. I found a sweet vintage Christmas ornament tutorial by Julia Stainton. Love the fact the project uses Studio Multi-Medium Gloss and Studio Artist Brushes by my art instructor and DIY guru Claudine Hellmuth. Check out the vintage ornament tutorial here.

Playful JumpFromPaper Handbags: 2D Whimsy

 

The innovative handbags by Taipei-based design duo Chay Su and Rika Linseem may look just like paper drawings but they are real. The whimsical JumpFromPaper bags are illustrations first drawn on paper and made into real handbags to imitate a 2D illustration of a handbag on paper.

      

 Photos: JumpFromPaper

Decor Crush: Rice Paper Lantern on the show White Collar

 

I believe in love at first sight. Especially while watching TV or a movie.

Let me explain...

Almost everything looks better on TV–especially home decor or cars or clothes. So it is only natural to see something even for just a second on your TV and instantly feel that connection. But where can you find it? Magazines and blogs do a great job of doing the sleuthing for the best in celebrity and pop culture clothing.

Amazing couches, lovely lamps, and impressive bookshelves rarely get ID'd in the media. That's why every Friday I am going to post one TV (or movie) home decor crush on my blog and my new Tumblr blog Decor Crush. Feel free to send me your ideas for identifying an item featured on Decor Crush. And send me suggestions for Decor Crush items. Together we will solve the puzzles. 

 

Friday's Crush:
The lamp in the apartment of the charming criminal mastermind Neal Caffrey (Matt Bomer) on the show White Collar. I love this rice paper lantern because it is not the typical round shape.

So where can I find it?

 

Follow Decor Crush on Tumblr.

Draw a monster today

 

It's hot! It's stormy! Perfect time to draw a monster.  

I call it monster therapy. Gather a bunch of markers or crayons and some paper--any size. Even Post-It Notes work.

Now here is the fun part. Pretty much anything goes. Expert doodlers and newbies will enjoy this project. All you need to do is scribble, doodle or draw the craziest monster you can think of. If you want, add some glitter, feathers, and stickers too.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out the monsters on the blog by my friend–and bestselling children's author/illustrator–Nancy Carlson.

* Monster doodle above by me, Chris Olson. You can see more of my doodles at Momathon doodles. 

 

Room for Children: Stylish Spaces for Sleep and Play

 

 

Looking for decorating ideas for a nursery or a child's bedroom? Susanna Salk's visually exciting book Room for Children: Stylish Spaces for Sleep and Play is a stunning treasure trove of decorating ideas and a fun read. Kelly Wearstler, renowned interior designer and author of several books, writes the foreword.

Is it possible to design a room that pleases both the parents and their children? Salk has found a way. Page after page of lovely photography by some of the industry's top photographers–Pieter Estersohn, Paul Costello, William Abranowicz, Melanie Aveced, and others–makes me want redecorate a few rooms at my house. No matter your style–modern, formal to whimsical–you will find a room that fits your mood. The book showcases a variety of decorating styles for bedrooms, play spaces, and study areas created by a talented group of designers including Kelly Wearstler, Charlotte Moss, Alessandra Branca, Amanda Nisbet, and Thomas Jayne, among many others.  

Salk is a leading design maven with many publishing success stories. Here are just a few: author of Weekend Retreats, a contributing editor for Bon Appetit Magazine, 1STDIBS.COM, and iVillage.com, as well as a former special projects editor at House & Garden. In the book she features an assortment of rooms that will appeal to a variety of ages. Her book has a sophisticated take on decor for children according to the LAtimes.com: 

The book suggests that just because a room is designed for a kid, that's no reason the design can't be all grown up. There is nothing DIY about "Room for Children," and no sense of trying to do more with less. Two-dozen-plus rooms in the book differ in style, but few could be described as "cute."

 

Anne at her blog The City Sage says: 

In the world of interiors books, the subject of decorating for children has been sorely neglected. Until now! Renowned author and editor Susanna Salk has released Room for Children: Stylish Spaces for Sleep and Play, and I'm rolling on a serious sugar high from all the sweet, sweet eye candy!

Julie at her blog Remodelista calls the book required reading:

Salk rounds up spaces by designers such as Kelly Wearstler (who wrote the book’s foreward), Amanda Nisbet, Amy Lau, Sixx Design, as well as J. Crew Creative Director Jenna Lyons’ edgy charcoal-walled nursery. 

 

This room makes me want to plan
a trip with my family...

The beach can't be too far away here...

A cozy space for a girl or boy to call home...

A little bit of elegance and fantasy...

Comfy and creative space for parents and baby...

Photos above feature the stylish pages from the book Room for Children by Susanna Salk. 

Note to my readers: I did not receive compensation from the author or publisher for writing this book review

Daily Doodle: Don't forget to be awesome

 

 

Happiness is a direction, not a place.

~Syndey J. Harris 

 

 

Doodle by me, Chris Olson. You can see more of my doodles at Momathon doodles.

Best Advice from Mom: Stand Up Tall

In my countdown to Mother's Day, today I'm remembering the best advice from my mom whenever I was feeling down: "Stand up tall."

In honor of Mother's Day, this week my "Mom Says" doodle art features my favorite sayings from my mom. You can find all of my "mom says" art here. You can see even more of my doodles at Momathon doodles. 

Illustration above by me, Chris Olson.

 

Daily doodle: baby bird

A bird does not sing because it has an answer.
It sings because it has a song.  

~Chinese Proverb

You can see more of my doodles at Momathon doodles. Illustration by me, Chris Olson.

Valentine doodles: Puppy love

“I don't wish to be everything to everyone,

but I would like to be something to someone.” 

~ Javan

You can see more of my doodles at Momathon doodles.

Illustration: Chris Olson © 2011.

Daily doodle: Walking in a winter wonderland...

 

Gone away is the bluebird,

Here to stay is a new bird

He sings a love song,

As we go along,

Walking in a winter wonderland.

...

When it snows, ain't it thrilling,

Though your nose gets a chilling

We'll frolic and play, the Eskimo way,

Walking in a winter wonderland.

 

~ Winter Wonderland, lyrics by Richard B. Smith

 

 

You can see more of my doodles at Momathon doodles.
Illustration: Chris Olson © 2011.

 

Daily doodle: California dreaming

 

 

"I'd be safe and warm
if I was in L.A.
California Dreamin'
on such a winter's day"

 ~ California Dreamin', 
The Mamas & the Papas

 

You can see more of my doodles at Momathon doodles.
Illustration: Chris Olson © 2011.

Signs of new life in winter

When life gets tough, consider the hardy plants outside. Somehow, defying all the odds, the magical rebirth of plants continues even on the coldest days...

Photographer Tracey Clark says it so well: "Mother Nature works miracles during every part of the year. It's merely a matter of remembering that what is going on beyond what meets the eye is sometimes even more wonderful than what we can actually see. This intangibility might be a challenge today. But sometimes, the challenge is half the fun."

 

Photo taken for an assignment in BigPictureClasses.com, Chris Olson © 2011

A little sunshine in winter

My "Picture Winter" photo for today is all about finding a little sunshine even on a chilly January day. My instructor, Tracey Clark at BigPictureClasses.com gave the class a fun assignment: "Today, keep your eyes open for signs of the sun. Polka dots, symbols, colors, shiny things…whatever helps you remember that the sun will come out tomorrow (or sometime soon, no doubt)."

Photo: Chris Olson © 2011 (Camera: iPhone)

Winter photography

Back in August at the BlogHer10 conference, I met some amazing photographers including the gals in Shutter Sisters. I already have devoured their cool new book Expressive Photography: The Shutter Sisters' Guide to Shooting from the Heart.

I guess I caught the photo bug from these talented gals. Now I am taking Tracey Clark's online photo class "Picture Winter." According to the course outline, Picture Winter is a "photo centric guided e-class that focuses on the many wonders of winter and will in turn act as a catalyst to creatively jumpstart the brand new year." 

Should be fun. I will be checking in here with updates on my progress.

Your big adventure in 2011 begins today

Happy New Year!

 

You can see more of my doodles at Momathon doodles.
Illustration: Chris Olson © 2010.

Simply brilliant: Cut paper animated Christmas video

Gorgeous holiday video from papercut artist & Chronicle author Rob Ryan. Watch it below.

Seasons Greetings from Rob Ryan from MR. ROBERT RYAN on Vimeo.

Daily doodle: O Christmas Penguin, O Christmas Penguin

 

 

O Christmas penguin, O Christmas penguin,

Much pleasure dost thou bring me!

For ev’ry year the Christmas penguin,

Brings to us all both joy and glee.

O Christmas penguin, O Christmas penguin,

Much pleasure dost thou bring me!

(Check out more of my doodles at Momathon doodles.
Illustration: Chris Olson © 2010.)

 

Blog for Digs: My childhood bedroom was...

My blog post today is part of Blog for Digs--a great charity blogging event for the non-profit Dwell with Dignity. This non-profit group of interior designers and volunteers is dedicated to creating soothing, inspiring homes for families struggling with homelessness and poverty". Learn how you can help make a difference, click here.

My childhood bedroom was...

If I close my eyes and imagine playing on the floor with my dolls in my childhood bedroom, I can almost feel the warm summer breeze coming in through the windows, hear the crickets chirping in the meadow grass outside and taste the sugar cookies baking in the always busy kitchen oven. I loved looking outside and my windows were a favorite feature of my tiny corner room. In the winter I would fall asleep warm and cozy under my pillowy comforter while listening to the snow machines rumbling as they magically blew man-made snow across the runs at the ski resort down the street.

Although my super organized parents might disagree, my childhood bedroom was very neat. Every toy, gadget, and doll had a special box, shelf, or drawer to call home. On one wall my parents added shelves to create a large dollhouse. In my closet they built another shelving system to house my other toys. My desk, my bed, my dresser and my chair were all antiques passed down through the generations. As a child I always wanted a bean bag chair, but when I grew up I realized the beauty of restored wood and handsewn cushions.

I will always be grateful that my parents neatly boxed up and saved many of my toys when I went to college. Here are just a few of my favorite childhood things that I photographed in my studio yesterday:

  

More childhood bedroom posts to come!

Sending special MOMMY HUGS to Claudia and Beth who organized this event and, of course, to everyone at Dwell with Dignity.

If you can, please donate so that we can help create special memories for some great and deserving children.

A talented group of bloggers will post about their childhood bedrooms and one decor item they wished they had. Claudia's Blog for Digs schedule over at StoneHouseLove features a few bloggers for each day.  

Passing the blogger keyboard over to blogger Emily at Notorious MLE. She will be posting her stories about childhood bedrooms tomorrow. Looking forward to reading all of the posts of blog for digs over the next few weeks. You can see the entire schedule for bloggers here.

 

Daily doodle: Be part of the cure on World AIDS Day

Approximately 2.6 million people each year become infected with HIV worldwide. 56,000 become infected each year in the U.S. Today is World AIDS Day 2010 and the perfect time to be part of the cure.

"Eight million people die every year for the price of going out with your friends to the movies and buying an ice cream. Literally for about $30 a head per year, you could save 8 million lives. Isn't that extraordinary? Preventable disease - not calamity, not famine, nothing like that. Preventable disease - just for the lack of medicines. That is cheap, that is a bargain."

~ Bono

 

 

(you) RED

Product (RED) was created by Bono and Bobby Shriver to raise both awareness and money to help women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa. The parenthesis is "the embrace." When companies become Product (RED) Partners they put their logo/name in the embrace--elevated to the power of red. You can be (RED) too.

The World AIDS Day 2010 illustration above by me, Chris Olson.