Hello Summer! Last week of school for my kids. Time to get my feet beach-ready because I'm kinda obsessed with sandals. And I'm smitten by the details and colors of the fabulous Sergio Rossi sandal. I think the name "Flashy" says it all.
Image: Sergio Rossi shoe illustration above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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This Winnie-the-Pooh quote was selected for my son as he goes off on another big adventure.
Whether you are going on an adventure today or staying close to home, hope all of you are having a lovely day. And if you have a bedtime story to read tonight—read something wise and wonderful by A.A. Milne with my favorite little bear, Winnie-the-Pooh. xo
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!
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I am going to start a new series of sketches of favorite shoes. Some are sketches of shoes I own, but many many are shoes I just love—the colors, the design, the "shoe architecture." Take this strappy open toe bootie. The elegant lines are divine, don't you agree?
Images: Shoe illustration above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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My illustration above was inspired by some lovely daisies my daughter gave me yesterday. I thought their bright colors were the perfect slice of sunshine to encourage you to make the most of your Monday!
And I thought I'd share a bit of link love to get your creative juices flowing. Here are just a few lovely links to inspire you:
Images: Daisy graphic featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Season 2 of Fashion Star ends tonight with a new fashion star to be named! Will you be tuning in? Only one of the final three designers —Cassandra Hobbins (John Varvatos' team), Daniel Silverstein (Nicole Richie's team) or Hunter Bell (Jessica Simpson's team) — will be named the season 2 winner. You can watch a preview video of the season finale here.
I've had so much fun sketching the runway so I've got one more sketch from the previous episode—Trending Now and Then. This sketch features Cassandra and the models wearing the column dress and shirt dress.
FASHION STAR RECAPS
If you want to see more sketches from my recaps, check out
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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In less than 48 hours, the finale of Fashion Star will air—that's Friday on NBC 8/7c. The designers are just one step away from winning the prize! I am feeling both happy and sad. Because I love watching the process behind creating the designs, this show about fashion desgners is one of my faves. Definitely must-see TV!
OY, vey. Now I am starting to get all get verklempt over the finale !!! Need to step back and focus on this recap for the second to last episode... Trending Now & Then.
Earlier this week I shared my sketch of Hunter Bell's lace dress with a keyhole neckline and peplum flare with pocket. Today I just have to talk about her amazing Fit and Flare dress. The mentors and the judges just love this dress. Express bids $50,000, Macy's bids $60,000 - and then Terron at Saks crushes them with a bid of $200,000. He admires the styling that recalls Christian Dior's New Look, launched in 1947, and he's thrilled with Hunter's "home run."
If you're looking for more fashion news on Hunter, check out her Hunter Dixon Clothing Line website, her blog, and her updates on Twitter, view her photos at @hunterdixon Instagram, and see her faves on Pinterest. Before I forget, Hunter has a 30% off Mother's Day Sale. Check it out here.
Have to add that I really loved the designs by Daniel, Cassandra and the duo JesseRay and Garrett. Want to get a sneak peak at the behind the scenes action on Fashion Star? Check out this short video featuring show host Louise chatting with the designers during their last chance for making it to the finals.
So what will happen next in the big Fashion Star finale on Friday? It may sound silly, but I'm crossing my fingers for all of them! I can't wait!
In case you missed my sketch for the lace dress available at Express, see the blue lace dress below.
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
FASHION STAR RECAPS
If you want to see more sketches from my recaps, check out
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Do you have a favorite fashion decade? I love both the '50s and the '60s and those decades were also popular with the four designers in the Trending Now and Then episode on Fashion Star on NBC. Can't wait to see what happens next on the finale this week!
For the Trending Now and Then challenge, each of the four designers picked a decade to inspire the creation of two garments. My focus this week for the recap will feature Hunter and I'll try to include more sketches from the other designers later in the week.
Hunter goes with the '50s and works with colored lace. She created two looks—a fit and flare lace dress and a lace dress with a keyhole neckline and peplum flare with pocket. Both the mentors and the judges just love her fit and flare dress. Express bids $50,000, Macy's bids $60,000 - and then Terron at Saks crushes them with a bid of $200,000. He admires the styling that recalls Christian Dior's New Look, launched in 1947, and he's thrilled with Hunter's "home run."
My sketch above features the second dress, her Lace Dress. Saks ($75,000) and Express ($100,000) both want the dress with a stunning bidding war by Express and Saks. With $200,000 each, Hunter has to choose and she goes with Erika at Express—the one who saved her last week. "
Cassandra went with the '60s and an update on a column dress and a shift mini.
JesseRay and Garrett have chosen the '50s and create a sheath dress and a paired short and crop top, inspired by Garrett's grandmother.
Daniel goes with the '60s and focuses on two trends: all-white and bold geometric prints. Plus he gets inspiration from Paco Rabanne's technique and creates a pattern with detail.
Each week I'm sad to see another designer go, and this week was no different when JesseRay and Garrett were eliminated. We were first introduced to the designer duo 9 weeks ago as sweater designers. They have proven to us they are much more than that. Wishing only great things for their future projects.
So what will happen next? This Friday is the finale.
If you want to see more sketches from my recaps, check out
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Can fashion designs bridge the gender gap? That's the mission for the week 8 "His & Hers" episode of Fashion Star on NBC.
The design challenge was to create his and her fashion—one piece for a man and one for a woman in two colors to bridge the gender gap. The designers remaining include Hunter along with Garrett and JesseRay on Jessica's team. Team John has Silvia and Cassandra. Team Nicole has one member left Daniel—and this gave him an edge because his mentor could dedicate all her efforts on helping him.
In the end the designers sent Silvia home. She was a fan favorite and I was disappointed to see her go...
Today my recap sketch focuses on anotherone of my favorites, the rising star Daniel Silverstein. His women’s denim romper and men’s denim jacket can be purchased at Express. He has sold the most on Fashion Star to date, his sales to total over $800,000. He has sold the most on “Fashion Star” to date, totaling over $800,000. You can follow Daniel on Twitter — @ZeroWasteDaniel. Daniel is the creator and designer of100% NY that features contemporary designer sportswear for the eco-conscious woman.
So what will happen next week? Next week’s challenge has the designers creating a style from the latest trends and adding their own twist. With only two episodes left, I'm sure it will be an exciting episode.
FASHION STAR RECAPS
If you want to see more sketches from my recaps, check out
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Imagine getting a chance to meet one-on-one with the buyers to get advice. That's just what happens in Week 6 "Buyer's Choice" episode of Fashion Star. The seven remaining designers were given a chance to prove themselves in areas where they might be lacking. Plus they had the amazing opportunity to meet with the buyers in order to better understand their visions.
Today my recap focuses on the designer Silvia who decided to create a wide-leg one-piece jumper. I love what she has been designing over the past 5 weeks and during this episode she seems to really take to heart the advice from the buyers. She met with Caprice from Macy’s who told her to be accessible and versatile. Terron from Saks told Sylvia to do something black and comfortable. Express opens the bidding with a bid of $55,000. Terron from Saks $200,000 shows how much he loves her jumper and bids an amazing $200,000! Guess who got the jumpsuit!
FASHION STAR RECAPS
If you want to see my recap from week 1, 2, 3, and 4 on Fashion Star, check out my sketches for
Week 1: Season 2 Premiere
Week 2: Sexy Designs.
Week 3: Something for Everyone
Week 4: It's Getting Hot in Here
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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How do you find the best places to shop and dine when you visit a new city? I talk to the locals and get the skinny on the neighborhoods they love. Linden Hills, a historic Minneapolis neighborhood nestled between the shores of Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun, is one of those beloved neighborhoods with tree-lined streets, family-friendly shops, and even a bookstore with chickens... More about that later.
Before I moved west to Colorado, I used to live a few blocks away. Almost daily in the summer I'd hop on my bike and ride the path around Lake Harriet to Linden Hills to do some shopping and grab a snack. It's become such a special place in my heart that each time I visit Minneapolis I return with my kids tagging along to shop. AND because no one in my family can resist a great snack, we always end up having some yummy homemade ice cream at Sebastian Joe's too.
Where to shop and dine in Linden Hills:
If you want a sweet treat or just a cup of coffee, Sebastian Joe's is the place to visit. The cafe has a couple of locations in the city, but the Linden Hills spot is my fave because it has an lovely sunny cafe space to sit with friends or just your laptop and enjoy their homemade ice cream (and other yummy snacks).
The Linden Hills neighborhood is very family friendly. The toy shop Creative Kidstuff has almost anything a kid wants—from craft supplies, games, dolls, stuffed animals, books, and more. And the store is very stroller friendly. Kids can test out new toys that usually hide inside packages at other stores.
Images: Photos and Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Way to go Team Nicole! I just had to say that before I begin my recap of the latest episode of Fashion Star. As you know, I've been sketching designs from the runway all season and last Friday was week five. At the start of week five, eight designers remained in the competition. For this episode "It Takes Two," the designers' challenge was to work in pairs to create two separate pieces for one overall look.
Sounds easy enough, but after all the drama on Team Nicole on Week 4, I wasn't sure what would happen when Johana and Daniel were asked to work as a team. I think it was their mentor Nicole who was able to brigh them together by asking them to see how their impressive and unique talents can work together. Daniel is very creative and he excels at designing couture pieces. Johana is the one with the vision and design savvy to turn great ideas into designs the buyers want. And the did it!
In a nutshell here is what happened when the duo on Team Nicole went before the buyers: First of all, I have to say it was the sparkle in the eyes of Terron Schaefer from Saks Fifth Avenue that gave it away when he watched the designs on the runway. For Johana's at-the-knee pencil skirt with 3 different fabrications, the initial bids came in with Macy's bidding $50,000 and Saks bidding $75,000. In the end, it was Saks that bought the dress at a whopping $175,000. Daniel's top was equally appealing to the buyers. Macy's started off with a bid of $50,000 and Saks with a bid—oh my oh my—at $180,000. Guess who got the top?!
I love everything about the design of this shapely skirt—especially the black one. The skirt features a contoured faux leather front panel that adds to the tapered silhouette on this high-waist knit skirt. You can see my sketch of Johana's pencil skirt above.
I'm so happy for Johana—and Daniel. They both really rocked the runway this week! Remember Johana's firecracker red sexy sheer maxi dress from week 2? It is also a fave—see my sketch and recap of that week here. You can buy the Sheer Maxi Dress at Express.
I will update with more styles from week five's episode later in the week.
FASHION STAR RECAPS
If you want to see my recap from week 1, 2, 3, and 4 on Fashion Star, check out my sketches for
Week 1: Season 2 Premiere
Week 2: Sexy Designs.
Week 3: Something for Everyone
Week 4: It's Getting Hot in Here
Designs featured in today's post:
1) Skirt by Johana Hernandez is available at Saks.com
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Have you been following Fashion Star? I've been sketching designs from the runway all season and last Friday was week four. Nine designers remain in the competition at the start of the show. The designers this week have to work with their teams to develop as a group a collection for summer for the buyers. Team Nicole's Daniel, Priscilla and Johana selected a "Summer in the City" theme. Team John's Cassandra, Amber, Brandon and Silvia go with the theme of "Tropical Vacation." Team Jessica's Garrett, JesseRay and Hunter go with a "Pool Party" theme.
Team Nicole has plenty of talent, but in the edited version of the show you get the impression that designers Daniel and Priscilla do not want to include Johana's ideas in their plans. Daniel and Priscilla gave her the task of designing a tank top—not the greatest task. If you can believe the show's dialogue tells the whole story, it appears the duo wanted Johana off their team. However it was Johana's work that caught the eye of all three buyers when she designed a sizzling jumpsuit instead of a top. Macys, Saks, and Express bid on Johana's strapless jumpsuit. Erika Express summed it up best when she said enthusiastically, "We all want that jumpsuit!" She bought the design for 100,000. So glad Johana the designer of GLAUDI continues to create stunning styles. Her strapless jumpsuit I sketched above is a fave of mine.
Wow! Johana's Strapless Jumpsuit in a print is already sold out at Express.
I'm so happy for Johana. She really rocks the runway! Remember her firecracker red sexy sheer maxi dress from week 2? It is also a fave—see my sketch and recap of that week here. You can buy the Sheer Maxi Dress at Express.
I will update with more styles from this episode—including the oh-so lovely Pink Caftan Mini by Hunter—later in the week.
FASHION STAR RECAPS
If you want to see my recap from week 1, 2, and 3 on Fashion Star, check out my sketches for
Week 1: Season 2 Premiere
Week 2: Sexy Designs.
Week 3: Something for Everyone
Dresses featured in today's post:
1) Johana's Strapless Jumpsuit in a print is already sold out at Express.
2) Johana's Sheer Maxi Dress at Express.
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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If you are a dog lover like me, then happiness is bringing your dog along for lunch at an outdoor cafe. Binkie (featured above) loves tagging along because like many French Bulldogs he is a sociable pup. When he's not following his human pal, he loves to hang out on the sofa.
Binkie also just happens to be the newest pet illustration on iPhone cases, laptop and iPad skins, throw pillows and more in my Society6 shop. Come say hi at my shop:)
xo Chris and Binkie
Images: Illustrations of Binkie the Frenchie featured above by me, Chris Olson and are available at my Society6 shop. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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The glossy fashion magazines and style blogs are filled with images of size 2 models. But we all know these runway-model-sized outfits may not work on real women. Is it possible to create clothing that fits every body type? This week the designers on Fashion Star were presented that challenge.
Can one design hit all the right style notes and flatter all of us? What do you think? In a perfect world, no matter our size we each have a unique beauty that radiates once we see it for ourselves. And fashion can be one thing that helps each of us recognize that beauty. I really liked what mentor Nicole Richie said,
"It's all about finding the areas of a woman's body that she is going to want to show off."
Liking our bodies—no matter our size—is a struggle even for designers. Cassandra talked briefly about recovering from her eating disorder. She shared that she understood what it is like not to be happy in your own skin or your own clothes. Cassandra's loose-fitting and feminine Geo Tunic was the "something for everyone" piece that sparked a bidding war between Macy’s and Express. In the end, Erika at Express bought the design for $110,000. Erika said she liked the color blocking and the fact the top and puts the emphasis in all the right places for all body types. I like the slimming geometric print combined with the oh-so versatile longer tunic-length. The added detail of a keyhole back is chic too. Yay, team John!
Amber Perley‘s Lace Dress was the one design of the night that I thought really worked in both size 2 and size 12. The plus size model really rocked in this hip design featuring floral lace with corset-style lacing in the back. When I watched Amber working on this dress during the show, I have to admit I was skeptical. But Amber was definitely right with this one. Once again a styles success is all about the details—the flattering color for spring, a the pretty scoop neckline, the elbow-length sleeves, the princess seams, and, of course, the flirty lace. One sure sign that the dress was a success is the fact both Erika and Terron bid $50,000 and $55,000 and in the end it was Saks that got this dress. Yay, team Jessica! My lace dress illustration above features the size 2 model, but I really must add a sketch of the gorgeous dress in the plus size too. Stay tuned.
Hunter Bell was the most successful designer Weeks 1 and 2. This week she created another winning design thanks to the power of peplum! Caprice (Macys) and Terron (Saks) passed on her Peplum Dress, but Erika loved the animal print and peplum combo. She bid $60,000 for Express. The high neckline seems to be flattering with almost any size. And if you have the curves with a waist, the cinched waist will be flattering too. Yay, team Jessica!
What's next for the designers? Their next challenge is to create the ultimate summer garment. I'll be watching and sketching Friday's show "It's Getting Hot in Here." You can watch it with me on Friday 8/7c. And if you missed past episodes, watch Weeks 1-3 online here.
And if you want to see my recap from week 1 and 2 on Fashion Star, check out my sketches for Week 1: Season 2 Premiere and Week 2: Sexy Designs.
Dresses featured in today's post:
Fashion Star Geo Tunic by Cassandra at Express
Fashion Star Lace Dress by Amber Perley at Saks.com
Fashion Star Peplum Dress by Hunter Bell at Express
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Hello, friends! Today I'm thinking about spring. Flowers, vivid colors, hearts, and sunny images fill the mood board above that I'm using for a project I'm working on.
Do you create mood boards? In a way Pinterest is one gigantic moodboard that inspires creative pursuits in art, decorating, and, of course, cooking.
A few tips to get a mood board started
Probably the best thing I've learned over the years when creating a board is to let go and avoid second guessing the images before you place them on the board. In other words, grab what you like now and you can analyze why later. Another tip, write a list of words that you associate with a project and use these words to get you started and guide you in your selection of images for your board.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out a few of my favorite posts by bloggers this week.
1) Finding a note in my mailbox always makes me smile. Now you can share some love via a new photo app that turns your iPhone images into snail mail. Check out the Printic App post via Victoria at sfgirlbybay.
2) Feeling crafty? Create sweet Friendship Bracelets via a super easy tutorial from Joy at Frock Files.
3) Celebrate spring and make adorable tiny Easter egg terrariums via Brittany at The House That Lars Built.
4) Try a new spin on decorating Easter eggs and make Sprinkle Easter Eggs via a cute tutorial by Kelly at Studio DIY®.
Happy weekend! xo Chris
Images: The mood board above includes photos and illustrations by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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If you could create an ideal sofa for your house, what would you make? That's the question that led to this sofa inspiration—part imaginary, part real. What do you think?
Real + Imaginary = Four cats on a sofa
Real: Sofa featured here is the Klyne Slipcovered Apartment Sofa in Sofas by Crate and Barrel. I absolutely love their furniture. This couch is so comfy and the cats seem to like it too. Imaginary: The four cats is an illustration by me, Chris Olson.
One of my favorite things to illustrate is pets. If you have a cat or dog—or even an iguana—and you would like to hire me to create a portrait, then send me an email and tell me about your pet. My illustration contact information is here.
Images: Top Image above features a Crate and Barrel sofa with 4 cats illustration by me, Chris Olson. Lower image: features a Frenchie illustration by me. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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What makes a dress sexy? Is it a mini skirt? A plunging neckline? Or maybe a body hugging silhouette? This was the big question for designers on Fashion Star on Week 2: Sex Sells.
Eleven designers reperesenting Team Nicole, Jessica and John put their hearts and souls into creating THE showstopper on the runway on Friday night. What dress tops your list? Here are a few of my faves from the show.
Not everyone can pull off a sexy tight dress. If you like a more forgiving cut you'll like Johana Hernandez's Sheer Maxi Dress (my sketch at the top of the post). I fell in love with the sheer firecracker red fabric in her dress. The sheer fabric works with the style to show some leg but still leave some mystery. Now that's sexy! You gotta admire designer Johana when she says it like it REALLY is—not everyone wants a typical club dress: “not all of us want to be feeling like a sausage in a dress.” You can buy her dress at Express here. Team Nicole wins points for this flattering dress for practically every body type.
In my opinion, a sexy black dress is always a winner. But how do you make it a jaw dropper? Simple and sexy becomes sizzling in Hunter Bell's Mesh Ponte Dress. Her dress was selected by both Saks (they bought her lovely Midi Dress last week) and Express, but it was Express that won the bidding war. Buyer Erika De Salvatore commented that she liked the piping and mesh details—and so do I. And I totally agreed with Erika during the show when she shares, “She’s showing off sexy but her girls aren’t popping out, love that.” So true, don't you agree? I have to add that the exposed zipper in the back is a nice detail too. Team Jessica wins points for this "sexy librarian" dress in black—and also available in warm stone.
More sketches to come...
I can't end this Fashion Star recap post with only two dresses. Perhaps the most coveted dress was the truly amazing Basket Weave Dress by the designer duo JesseRay and Garrett on Team Jessica. Details and more fashion sketches coming on the blog next. Stay tuned.
And if you want to see my recap from week 1 on Fashion Star, check out my post here.
Dresses featured in today's post:
Sheer Maxi Dress by Johana available at Express
Mesh Ponte Dress by Hunter Bell available at Express
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Did you watch Fashion Star's season 2 premiere on Friday? I love watching the behind-the-scenes stories in the world of fashion design so this show is must-see tv at my house. On each episode, twelve designers present their clothing to a group of buyers from Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, and Express (replacing H&M this season). Just like last year, the designs chosen will be available to purchase the day after they appear on TV. How cool is that! The buyers include Terron E. Schaefer from Saks Fifth Avenue, Caprice Willard from Macy's, and Erika De Salvatore at Express.
I'm missing host Elle MacPherson from last season, but I am hoping the new host, Glamour Magazine’s fashion editor-at-large Louise Roe will be great too. This season brings back the same fab mentor's—Nicole Richie, Jessica Simpson, and John Varvatos—with a slight twist. Now the mentors will advise and guide their own team of four designer contestants.
The 12 designers include: David Appel, Silvia Arguello, Priscilla Barrosso, Hunter Bell, Garrett Gerson & JesseRay Vasquez, Johana Hernandez, Cassandra Hobbins, Tori Nichel, Amber Perley, Brandon Scott, Daniel Silverstein and Bret Young.
On team Jessica, Hunter Bell's “Midi Dress” sparked a bidding war between Saks and Express. Both made final offers of $200,000 leaaving Bell to choose. Her orange dress (sketch at top of the page) is available at Saks Fifth Avenue for $225. Here's what Terron Schaefer, at Saks Fifth Avenue had to say about the dress: "I love the coat zipper in the back. Plus the waist cutouts are sexy and the eye-opening color is trend-right for spring."
On team John, designer Amber Perley's "Mod Flare" dress in orange and in chalk with a peek-a-boo addition was snapped up by Express. Erika at Express made Amber the second-highest offer of the night at $175,000 on her dress. Yay, Amber! The dress retails at $69. According to Express, the dress is a "perfect union of flirty modern detail and an iconic feminine silhouette. The crochet bodice and cotton flare skirt are uniquely connected, leaving a whisper of bare skin."
Here's the skinny on the mentor's teams: Jessica picks Hunter, Tori, Garrett & JesseRay and David. John picks Amber, Cassandra, Sylvia and Brandon. Nicole picks Priscilla, Johana, Bret and Daniel. I hated to see any of the designers eliminated. So sad to have Bret Young be the first eliminee.
I'll be tuning in again this Friday night. Will you?
Looking for more sketches from the runway? Check out my sketches of Jennifer Lawrence, Helen Hunt, Charlize Theron, and Jennifer Aniston from the red carpet at the Oscars 2013. Plus more sketches from the Golden Globes here and here.
Images: Illustrations featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Charlize Theron looks white hot wearing a stunning Christian Dior Haute Couture dress and Harry Winston jewelry. Love the fact she kept the accessories to a minimum and played up the chic monochrome look. Do you like her new pixie cut for her role in the film Mad Max? I do. She says the new style means fewer hair products—you gotta love that!
If Charlize was white hot on the red carpet, then Jennifer Aniston was definitely red hot in a strapless Valentino couture gown with a tight bodice and a full skirt. And since we are talking about hair, what do you think about Jennifer's choice to keep it simple with her signature casual-chic hairstyle? Since my hair is stick straight, I know how hard it is to make that loose and straight look work. I love her not-so basic do!
Jen's dramatic gown is even more glam with a pop of bling thanks to the Salvatore Ferragamo clutch and Fred Leighton jewelry.
I will be updating through out the day with more sketches. Tune in again later :)
Meanwhile, check out my sketches of Jennifer Lawrence and Helen Hunt from the red carpet in my post yesterday. Plus more sketches from the Golden Globes here and here.
Images: Illustrations of Academy Awards fashions featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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I'm a kind of a Oscar trivia geek to the point of even reading the screenplays if I can. I'll also admit the one reason I watch the Oscars is to see all the fabulous gowns. Last night the celebs rocked the red carpet. While watching the awards I started sketching my favorite dresses.
Best Actress Oscar winner Jennifer Lawrence rocked the Hollywood glam in her stunning blush Dior Haute Couture gown with the long Chopard necklace that cascaded down her back. The romantic dress was so impressive but the dress made it difficult to walk up the stairs to accept her award. Where were the handsome guys to escort her up the stairs? I'd like to see a man try to navigate stairs in a ball gown!
When I sat down to sketch last night, my first sketch was of Helen Hunt wearing the lovely navy silk satin strapless dress. Later I was surprised but delighted to find out the designer was H&M! So wonderful, don't you think.
I'll be back during the day updating this post with more sketches. Check back later :) Meanwhile, check out my sketches from the red carpet at the Golden Globes here and here.
Images: Illustrations of Academy Awards fashions featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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On Presidents' Day and every day, this quote is the best advice.
IMAGE: Graphic above featuring the quote by our 16th President is by me.
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Do you feel any different after you hear music that you absolutely love? In the Nancy Meyers' film The Holiday, the character Miles is a composer who knows the value of a beautiful melody. When he is falling for Iris he tells her this...
She's like sunshine... That has to be the sweetest Valentine's Day quote. And it's from the most Valentine-y movie. Valentine's Day.
Images: All graphics above are by me, Chris Olson and feature my illustrations, hand lettering and photos. Feel free to pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
More VALENTINE-Y goodness on the blog:
Favorite Romantic Movie Quotes
Valentine's Day Printable: Sweetheart Cards
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Since it's Valentine's Day week, I'm sharing a few favorite romantic quotes from movies. Screenwriter Richard Curtis tops my list for the sweetest quotes.
Nora Ephron's films include some of the best modern romantic comedies. I've watched When Harry Met Sally so many times, I can recite many of the lines. Even the guys in her films are romantic...
Here is another quote about love, it's not so much romantic as it is heartwarming. A lovely snippet I like to remember when love seems not so obvious.
Check back through out the day. I will be adding more.
Images: All graphics above are by me, Chris Olson and feature my photos. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Jennifer Lawrence is the new face of Christian Dior so her gown selection for the Golden Globes was no big surprise. The Best Actress winner for her role in Silver Linings Playbook looked tres elegant in a strapless, waist-cinching Dior Haute Couture gown by Raf Simons. The scarlet gown's tight bodice and a black belt made me wonder why her critics keep pestering her about her weight. All I can say is: Jennifer, you look simply FABULOUS!
Her stylist got it right on the red carpet. Jennifer's striking tousled up-do is both chic and modern. She looked elegant with the drop earrings and holding the small clutch bag.
Marion Cotillard, who was nominated for a best actress award (for "Rust and Bone") wore another gown by designer Dior. Marion's dress had a slim black belt like Jennifer's, but she opted for a vibrant orange dress and a more avant garde style with an asymmetrical hem.
{Sketch above is by me and part of my Golden Globes Recap series}
More from my Golden Globes recap
Red Carpet Style: Taylor Swift
Red Carpet Style: Zooey Deschanel, Kate Hudson, Lucy Liu
Red Carpet Style: Jessica Alba, Sofia Vergara, Anne Hathaway
Images: Sketch above is part of my Golden Globes Recap series. Illustrations of Golden Globe fashions featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Taylor Swift opted for a more sophisticated glamorous look instead of her usual sparkly gown on the red carpet this year at the Golden Globes. Some critics dissed her more mature style, but I loved the deep-plum form-fitting Donna Karan gown with a mermaid hem. Instead of beachy waves and her signature blunt bangs, she wore her hair pulled off her face and neck into a sleek bun.
For more Golden Globes fashion images and sketches from the red carpet, see my post featuring Jessica Alba, Sofia Vergara, and Anne Hathaway. And my post featuring Zooey Deschanel, Kate Hudson, and Lucy Liu.
Images: Illustrations of Golden Globe fashions featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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A chilly Sunday evening in Hollywood for this year's Golden Globes was no match for the red hot styles. The women of Hollywood sizzled on the red carpet in the boldest red hues. "New Girl" star (and co-founder of the creative women site HelloGiggles.com) Zooey Deschanel wore a stunning poppy red gown by Oscar de la Renta.
Mother of two and star of some of my favorite movies, Kate Hudson pulled off the perfect sleek silhouette on a very cool night with her elegant long-sleeved black gown by Alexander McQueen. The decorative gold beading highlighted her sun-kissed blond waves. The gown's strategically placed chest baring cut-out added to the glamorous look.
Sometimes a gown wears a celebrity. And some of the fashion bloggers out there didn't like the voluminous Carolina Herrera ball gown on the petite Lucy Liu. I might have agreed with them, but when Lucy walked down the red carpet and glanced back over her shoulder, that's when she owned the gown! Her dress fell in lovely cascade of roses on a light blue background as she walked. And I must not forget to mention my favorite detail of the dress--when Lucy slipped her hands in the gown pockets I wanted to wear the dress too.
Check back later today. I'll be adding more sketches to this post.
For more Golden Globes fashion images and sketches from the red carpet, see my post from yesterday featuring Jessica Alba, Sofia Vergara, and Anne Hathaway.
Images: Illustrations of Golden Globe fashions featured above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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You might imagine I love buying shoes... The truth is, I have a love-hate relationship with shoes. I don't like shoe shopping. But I like shoes. Due to a serious ski racing accident years ago and subsequent surgeries, finding the right shoe is tricky. Buying shoes for me is like the dreaded shopping trip to try on swimsuits when nothing ever looks right. (More about my shoe issue in a later post.) The idea behind this post is to keep a sense of humor in life. Even about shoes.
Images: Illustration above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to pin image on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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The other day, I was fussing about and thinking how I could make my daughter's bedroom more cozy. Adding comforters, soft blankets, and fluffy throw pillows is a personal fave. And this idea is no surprise to people who visit my home. One of the decorating themes in my house is using "cozifiers." That's why I am so excited about a collection of pillows I am creating for my new Society6 shop.
My inspiration for creating an illustration for artwork and products my Society6 shop is often one of my own three dogs, or maybe one of the rescue dogs at the shelter I volunteer at, and sometimes a trip to the zoo is the subject of my artwork. Many of my pillows includes a short little backstory written by me... Latte Cat lives in a bookstore. She loves to read over your shoulder. Her favorite place to sit is on a shelf near the latte machine.
My 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 my artwork and is finished with a concealed zipper for ease of care. For even greater affordability and options, the Throw Pillows are sold with or without a faux down pillow insert.
Check out my pillows featured above:
1. City Dogs {Frenchies} Throw Pillow by Chris Olson | Society6
2. Georgia the Giraffe Throw Pillow by Chris Olson | Society6
3. City Dogs {Shoe Diva} Throw Pillow by Chris Olson | Society6
4. Latte Cat Throw Pillow by Chris Olson | Society6
5. Paris Cat Throw Pillow by Chris Olson | Society6
6. Make Today Awesome {Fall in Love} Throw Pillow by Chris Olson | Society6
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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!
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Have you voted yet? I hope you do. Bob Schieffer, moderator of the final presidential debate, ended the debate with sage advice from his mother: "Go vote. It makes you feel big and strong."
Images: Both VOTE illustrations are by me, Chris Olson. (You can also find the #govote image on @MomathonBlog on Instagram.) Feel free to Pin images on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Hello, friends. What a week...
In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, I send a HUGE thank you to all the first responders, the anonymous good samaritans, the city and state leaders, President Obama, the donors who help disaster relief charities, and those countless heroes who helped out with hurricane rescues and disaster relief efforts. Words can't begin to express my gratitude.
I'm sending out special mommy hugs to my family and friends on the East Coast. My son in college in NYC survived the storm and has been giving me updates on the recovery and relief efforts.
My wish for November can be summed up in four words: A spirit of gratitude. If we join together to support each other that is what has the power to make each day truly awesome. Our perspective and acts of generosity can lift us up even during the most overwhelming situations. When disaster strikes we might see the glass as half empty. However, our acts of kindness—small or big—is what gets poured into the glass to make it half full.
If you want to help relief efforts for Hurricane Sandy, this is a great post with links. (If you are a blogger please share that link.)
xo, Chris
Image: MAKE TODAY RIDICULOUSLY AWESOME illustration by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Woke up this morning to a diamond-sparkles layer of light snow. My DH and I didn't want to get out of bed. A couple of neighbor kids went sledding on the hill out front before school. The ski resorts are opening up nearby. I will be checking the slopes out soon. But this weekend, I'm thinking just be lazy. And if the sun shines, I will walk my dogs high up into the foothills. And when the sun sets, a glass of wine, some dark chocolate and who knows...
I couldn't decide today, so I've got two playlists.
First, here's a happy soundtrack for relaxing. Play this while scrapbooking or baking.
And here's some music to play at dinner. Who knows. Maybe a little slow dancing will begin.
Play it if you like James Taylor (Copperline), John Haitt (Have a Little Faith in Me) , Eagles (Hotel California) or if you remember the refrain in Sister Golden Hair. Doo wop doo wop ...
I won't give it all away. Just listen :)
Image: KISS illustration by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Brrrr! The sun is shining but the wind is blowing—snow is on the way! Is it possible to be both chic and warm? Here are five winter essentials to get you started.
What is both chic and cozy? A trench coat made of a rich wool. Infinity scarf with a looping double-layer of plush, winter-weight knit. A bright red satchel that warms your heart by giving back to charities. Leather gloves lined in cashmere. Red boots that are not afraid of puddles or snowy slush.
1 Trench coat via ToryBurch.com / 2 Houndstooth infinity scarf via Express / 3 North Moore Satchel via IIIBeCa by Joy Gryson / 4 Cashmere and leather gloves via Lands' End / 5 Boots via Kate Spade.
Image: FIVE WINTER ESSENTIALS graphic by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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My Monday through Friday schedule is never the same. Looking at my unfinished to-do items this week, the days seem to blur together. The kids have activities, I have work, and the list goes on. In theory I'm supposed to take time for myself too. That's when a bike ride or a hike makes all the difference. If I take time to recharge even just for an hour during the day then my week is so much better. What do you do to recharge?
Images: THE JOURNEY artwork by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Hello, Weekend! Why are you turning so cold on me? Snow? Oh no, please say it isn't so. Two days ago I took a nap on my front porch. Snow? Really?!
I need to layer on a couple of sweaters, pull on some snug-as-a-bug wool socks, and grab a book to read by the fireplace this weekend. And while I'm reading I think this playlist is just what I need. How about you? What plans do you have?
Why do I like the Straight up Class soundtrack? Let me count the ways... Jazz, champagne and pearls—in music form of course. French twists, moderns and throwbacks; alas, listening doesn't get much classier than this my friends.
J'ai deux amours... I confess I have two loves on a day like today. Coffee and chocolate.
Images: PARIS CAT AT THE TABLE artwork by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Image: TO ERR IS HUMAN graphic includes a dog illustration and design by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Do you heart vintage? Vintage fabric was my inspiration for these gift tag printables—free to download at the end of this post.
The downloadable PDF (see link below) contains 1 page that includes 6 tags—2 tags of each of the 3 designs shown above.
Continue reading "Free Printable: Gift Tags {Vintage Fabric}" »
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I'm thinking of my friends in the path of the Hurricane Isaac today. Praying for the sunshine to come soon. xo Chris
Below are two music video versions of the song Here Comes the Sun—plus one more favorite sunny song by Zooey Deschanel -- She & Him.
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Did the weekend treat you well? My weekend zipped by much too quickly. I'm starting out a bit slow today. Sorting through my emails. Walking my three dogs—yes, three! And baking a batch of blueberry muffins. Yum!
Sharing a bit of doodle-ly letter love—with polka dots—today. Is doodle-ly a word? I hope so. I like to say it ;)
Not only is doodle-ly a word, it's an app! I'll have more on this app tomorrow.
Image: The DOODLE-LY POLKA DOT ART at the top of the post is by me, Chris Olson. The app image on the left is from iTunes. Feel free to Pin them on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Laughter is a secret ingredient to living better and longer. According to a study done by Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie, Indiana, laughter lowers levels of cortisol in the body and that helps the immune system work more efficiently. Laughing is even a form of exercise. You get approximately the same benefits from laughing 100 times a day, as you get from 10 minutes of using a rowing machine or riding a stationary bike for 15 minutes. And the more you laugh during the day, the more rested and refreshed you will feel. So go ahead, laugh long and you'll live longer.
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Image: LAUGH MORE graphic image by me, Chris Olson. The pretty pink color that pops through the lettering is from a flower photo by the awesome photographer D. Sharon Pruitt. Feel free to Pin my poster on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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If you like to scrapbook or add embellishments to note cards, then including styled hand lettering is a fun addition. One of the easiest lettering options to try is ribbon lettering. My mom first taught me the ribbon lettering technique when I was a kid. The OH HAPPY DAY letter art above started out just black and white, then I added the color. (I was was inspired by @jordanferney blog called OH HAPPY DAY.)
Want to try some lettering? First, don't worry about rules. Have fun! Play with letters, doodle a bit, and see what styles you like. The best part of ribbon lettering is you can make the letters as unique as you want. Plus you can try it with printing or cursive handwriting. Check out my tutorial below.
The graphic I created above gives the 3 basic steps to create each letter. One tip to make the lettering stand out is to make the foundation for each letter a bit wider than you normally write. The wider your letters, the more noticeable the ribbons will be. The narrower or tighter your letters, the smaller your ribbons will be.
When you get to step 3 above, you can draw the ribbon edge line on either the outside or the inside of each letter. If you draw the line on the outside of the edge of a letter you will need to add a little "bridge" to close the top and the bottom of the ribbon. Does that make sense? If you have any questions, just add them to the comment sections.
Have fun! And if you want, try this activity with your kids. That is how I learned to make interesting letters—with my mom. xo Chris O.
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Images: OH HAPPY DAY and 3 STEPS TO CREATE RIBBON LETTERS images are by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
DO YOU LIKE TO DO CRAFTS WITH YOUR KIDS?
You might be interested in the following "quiet time" craft activity to do with kids:
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Happy Birthday, Julia Child! She would have turned 100 years old today. Thought my poster above would be perfect to honor her big day. Kudos to Julia for introducing French cuisine to American homes and reminding us that almost everything is better with some butter! When Child returned from Paris with her husband Paul, she shared her love of butter and French cooking in the best-selling book Mastering the Art of French Cooking she co-authored with Simone Beck and Louisette Bertholle in 1961. Of course I love the account of her cookbook writing told through a film and a book.
LINKS CELEBRATING JULIA'S 100TH!
Julia Child died back in 2004, but she will live forever in cookbooks in our kitchens. The Smithsonian is honoring Julia Child's kitchen with a lovely display.
If you want to bake something in her honor, please use loads of butter. And one of her lovely cookbooks. You can find a nice summary of her culinary tips here.
If you want to toast her 100th birthday, check out Julia's favorite cocktail recipe here.
Google marks all things honorary with a doodle—check out the Julia Child Google Doodle.
You can read a nice tribute to Julia here with lots of little known facts about her life and a link to a new biography about her.
Summer ends in my neighborhood today. And the dreaded "S" word begins tomorrow. School!!! Yikes! Time to go outside and soak up some Vitamin D—and tonight I'll toast to Julie and indulge in buttery treats!
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Image: IF YOU'RE AFRAID OF BUTTER, USE CREAM image by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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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!
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Have a lovely day, friends. The beauty of each day is all about YOU!
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Image: CHOOSING HAPPINESS graphic above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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Summer officiall kicks off today! In the Northern Hemisphere the longest day and shortest night of the year occur today—the summer solstice—and this makes it the first day of summer. Today in the Northern Hemispher the North Pole is tipped more toward the sun than on any other day in 2012.
For a few days before and after the solstice, have you ever noticed that the sun at noon appears to stay in the same spot in the sky? That's because the noontime elevation of the sun does not appear to change very much during this period. At the time of summer solstice the sun is directly overhead at noon along the Tropic of Cancer—an imaginary line that circles the planet at about the latitude of Cuba.
Here's the solstice scoop according National Geographic.com:
This year's summer solstice takes place a day earlier than it's been for the past three years, due to the fact that 2012 is a leap year—this February got an extra day, to keep our calendar year of 365 days in sync with the astronomical year, which is about 365.24 days.
I plan on enjoying the longest day outside—including a late dinner on the deck. Do you have any solstice plans?
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Image: Photo and graphics above by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!
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No matter how my day begins... I have worn my t-shirt inside out. I have forgotten appointments. I have misplaced my car keys.
If I remember to think one small positive thought when I wake, the whole day seems better even when I make a fool of myself.
xo, Chris
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(The positive thinking graphic above was created by me, Chris Olson. Feel free to Pin it on Pinterest with a link back to this post. Thanks!)
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Does it feel like summer at your house? The sky is blue and the heat is sizzling here. Happy Summer!
The June floral pattern above by me, Chris Olson.
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A great choice for urban driving, the Toyota Scion iQ wins points for nimble parking skills and great fuel economy in the city at 36 mpg city mileage. The ultra-small size at 120.1" from bumper to bumper places the iQ between two other micro-subcompacts—the Smart ForTwo (106.1") and the Mini Cooper (146.8"). The car's small size is a plus in many ways, but it also limits other features. The car's 4-cylinder engine lacks acceleration muscle and the car only has room for 3 people to fit "comfortably." The Scion iQ stands tall as a safe small car for city driving with 11 airbags including one that covers the rear glass to protect the passengers in the back. On the highway with SUVs and trucks screaming by the Scion, I'm not convinced this small car is the smoothest ride or the safest.
Kiplinger just ranked the Scion iQ as one of the ten cheapest cars to own:
The Scion iQ MSRP starts at $15,265. More details in my iQ review in the graphic above. Although I haven't driven the car, the Scion iQ wins my vote for city driving. You can find more 2012 Scion iQ stats via Toyota.com, Cars.com, and Edmunds.com.
Graphic above by me, Chris Olson.
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It sounds simple, but making that first step is the most difficult... Believe you can and you're halfway there.
You can find more quote and sayings artwork here. Image above created by me, Chris Olson.
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