Plum in the Middle

Top 5

2012-02-10T00:58:00.000-06:00

1. Rebecca Hansen Weddings gorgeous lighting. soft touches. beauty.

2. Max Wanger 2011 year. in. review. I seriously have an affinity towards this kind of photography.

3. Nicole Ziegler Photography 3 out 5 are photography-related... maybe I'm in the wrong business.

4. Stay Golden. Love gold.

5. This blog.

My blog reminds me of happy times.

2012-02-10T00:40:00.002-06:00

I used to write in the blog when I had lost a love.

Then I wrote in this blog TO a love.

Now I write in this blog as my love.

The XX

2011-11-11T11:46:00.000-06:00

Heart skipped a beat
and when I caught it you were out of reach
but I'm sure
I'm sure you've heard it before.

#onrepeat #listenhere

A golden bow...

2011-08-23T13:58:00.000-05:00

sits atop my finger.
It's mishapen from wear.
I purchased it this way—
for a mere $40 it's "tied" to my soul:
a reminder to never forget.
The things that I've dreamt,
the things that I desire,
A reminder of where I came from—
and what's to come.

Let's not forget:
vinyl and the first kiss,
throwing caution to the wind,
the first heartbreak,
living abroad,

elevators and origami,

the second heartbreak,
my family away from family,
the climbs–and the falls.

This is where I am.

All over, but here.

2011-04-16T13:48:00.000-05:00

Basically, I am all over the internet. Everywhere but here. Since this is a personal blog, I've kept it private and unsearchable via Google. I'd like to keep it that way. For the few trusted subscribers, I hope to share with you more of my hopes and dreams as I come into myself: a girl of 26 going on 27.

Find me on:

Twitter

Pinterest

Cargo Collective

my Portfolio Website

More to come.

I miss this blog and

2011-03-05T23:12:00.000-06:00

I'm so happy it's still here. Maybe I will write in you again soon.
Love, Lisa

I'm an Auntie!!!

2010-11-09T08:30:00.005-06:00

Bennett Kai

November 7, 2010

Top 5 time-bleeding activites

2010-09-27T11:56:00.003-05:00

I've been so busy since I came back from Penland! Ironically, I do not have a lot to report despite finding less and less time alone. However, I assume since you are reading this, I must have some pull of interest, and if this be the case, humor me, and read on.

1. United Way

I have volunteered to be the official United Way Volunteer liaison in my office, aka United Way cheerleader. Rah rah! Yay, United Way. I'm actually quite enjoying it. The UW of Story County is an amazing organization helping to improve the quality of life in my community. They provide financial support to organizations that provide housing to low income families, food to pantries for those who cannot afford a meal, immunization for young children whose parents cannot afford it, and so much more. In my office, I've organized weekly bake sales, a recycling can drive, a silent auction, and a food drive to raise money and awareness for the United Way. I'm loving my new cheerleading role!

2. Painting

My friend Jaci and I are taking an acrylic painting class at the ISU Workspace. Although this is a beginner level class, I love that I have taken time out of my week, to sit down, be creative and spend time with my baby. She and I have been friends for four years now, ever since I met her at The Café, September 2006; she was only 18! Whoa, that's crazy.


Ken, climbing out of the cave.

3. Climbing

I climb every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday if I can. After my foot surgeries, it was tough to get motivated to return to climbing. It's not that I didn't want to, it's that what once was an easy route, was and is a more difficult problem for me. Since July, I've been slowly working my strength and pain tolerance back to it's prime. It's been a slow journey, but I was recently able to climb out of the cave 3 times in one trip. That's huge for me.

4. Shows

Last week Brandon and I went on a double date with my friends Anj and Marty to see Built to Spill. All music evokes feeling in me, but this is one of those bands that isn't just one feeling. I could listen to them on sunny days or rainy days, and both can fit my mood perfectly. Favorites include: Else, Strange, Center of the Universe, The Plan, In Your Mind, The Weather. Upcoming shows this week? Local Natives and Band of Horses. Unbelievable. Best week ever.

5. Website?

So I think you all have seen my website. And if you have, you know that it simply must be updated. Well I'm workin on it. Since I first landed my gig at the ISU Alumni Association in 2008, I haven't touched it. It's time for a change, new projects, new look, the whole shebang. It's time consuming and difficult, especially when web is not my specialty. However, I'm enrolled in a one day seminar in Minneapolis, Oct. 7th, that should help. I'm looking forward to the workshop. I'm really motivated for self improvement lately. Workshops, classes, anything to become better. I hate to think that I'm not enough, but when I see the amazing things my colleagues have done with the same degree that I achieved, I wonder "What am I doing?"

Aren't we cute?!

2010-08-31T00:04:00.002-05:00


Penland Letterpress 2010 Top: Karin, Amy, Virginia, me, Beth, Jessica, Phil; Bottom: Alan, John, Miranda, Kathy, and Mary Ellis.

Last minute print.

2010-08-25T21:24:00.006-05:00

I decided last night I wanted to do a second poster to pair along side my XO poster. I thought perhaps since I started with a mushy hugs-n-kisses theme, the second in the series would be the opposite of mushy: heartbreak. If you've ever listened to Elliott Smith before, you know how he encompasses tragedy. I fittingly picked the song named "Waltz #2 (XO)." This song appeared in my music biography around 2004, when I was breaking up with my long-time boyfriend, Jonathan. I listened to the song again just to make sure it pulled on the heart strings a little bit. It did.

Final.

Set type on the #4 Vandercook.

Linen text paper! I LOVE linen paper.

Today:

2010-08-24T22:02:00.001-05:00

LISA: the girl twin: A 5x7 typographic study.
I created one for each member of my family.
Linocut and letterpress on Rives BFK.

XOXO! MUAH! I LIKE YOU. THANK YOU.
I made 10 sets of four greeting cards.
Linocut and letterpress on laid paper.

PRINTED BY: Yours truly.

Dear Letterpress, xoxo!

2010-08-22T23:21:00.000-05:00

Here I am setting my type on the Vandercook #4.

And here is the final result! What do you think?

Penland School of Crafts:

2010-08-20T21:36:00.000-05:00

Update, Ly

2010-07-31T15:28:00.001-05:00

1. Sheng is completely moved in. It's tight, but homey.

2. Brandon's finally back from Kansas City. He's had a successful internship at Bernstein-Rein, and I couldn't be prouder.

3. Leaving for North Carolina in less than 13 days. I'm sort of not ready but also feeling completely ready, if that makes any sense. I want to get out of here, run away for a while, and work on myself; I feel a little bit lost. I thought this letterpress workshop was going to be a good move for my career and creative spirits, but moreso, I think it will be a good spirit awakening.

4. Church. Every year I go though a phase, where I'm all about it: I'm excited to go every week, I read the Bible, listen to songs from church, I'm just in love. But also... every year, I go through a phase where I avoid it like the plague. That's what I'm in right now. It started in January when I had my foot surgeries and has continued through summer. I'm ready to start the other phase now. Please.

5. The Cafe. I've been back to work since May. I guess that means about 3 months now. I'm still a little uncomfortable. I'm not really sure why, but maybe this is a good thing. Perhaps my life in the restaurant world is over (suggested by my discomfort). I'm sort of reading it as a subtle sign, quietly hinting I should move on. Move towards the prime of my life... whatever that may be. The thing is, I don't know what my "purpose" will be... I just want to feel more fulfilled.

Just like home.

2010-07-08T19:39:00.002-05:00

So, I'm well into my mid-twenties, decently successful, depending on your definition, independent and content, right? I make my own money, feed myself, pay my bills... What's next?

Why it would only be natural to move back in with your family, right?

Okay, perhaps this is not everyone's idea of next steps, but I think it's the right move for me. Well, let me clarify, I'm not moving at all. Rather my family is moving in with me. Sheng & Lacey, roomies, welcome.

So what is my motivation, besides love for the siblings? Well my ulterior motive is for Sheng to take over my lease, absolving me of permanent dwellings. Not only that, but I will save more money for my ultimate goal: moooooooving. I'm ready for a change. I have been for a while. Somehow I'm finally motivated to do something about it. I think the stars finally aligned: convenient sublet, saving money, happy to move boyfriend, motivation to update my website (still in progress), and... discontent. I'm 26 and I've been living in Ames, Iowa, for 8 years now! Time to move on, see new things, meet new people.

I'm feeling excited. Currently listening to "Ten Cent Pistol" by The Black Keys.

but he smells like ranch dressing!

2010-07-01T09:06:00.000-05:00

I dig the Black Keys.

Max Wanger

2010-06-30T02:06:00.000-05:00

I love this.

Also, I can't sleep.

:(

Must be done.

2010-06-24T10:47:00.000-05:00

You must really download Bedroom Covers by the Morning Benders.
Really. It's a must.
So sweet and melodic.
Perfect for an evening coffee-shopping...
editing vacation photos...
like my little marmot friend!

MMMMMMM

2010-06-23T14:34:00.003-05:00

MMMMMMorning Benders cover Fleetwood Mac.
I want it to be raining when I hear this cover.
It's so chill. Thanks to B for finding it.

Also I have a new celebrity crush: John Isner.

MMMMMMan-tennis-player.
All 6-foot-9 of him.

I heart vinyl.

2010-06-16T13:33:00.001-05:00

Mayer Hawthorne has done it! 

Combined my loves: catchy tunes + graphic icon. 

Mmmm! Yes please!

Mmmm... airplanes.

2010-05-28T16:12:00.003-05:00

I know I've already posted this band, and in fact, this very song, but I was able to listen to the whole album recently, and I absolutely love it. Gorilla Manor is one of those albums I can listen to straight through. And so should you.

In other news, I've been away on vacation, so here's a little tidbit for you.

North Yellowstone.
Now don't you feel like you're on vacation?

6 PM already?!

2010-05-11T23:14:00.000-05:00

I've been "over-timing" at work this week. This happens every time I go on vacation. Coworker: "What you're going on vacation?"
Me: "Yes, I told you this a week ago."
Coworker: "I have to get you that thing, you know?"
Me: ...
Coworker: "Okay-great! Need that before you leave. Have a great vacation!"
Me: ...

At least I like being busy. The day goes by so much quicker. In other news, I'm loving the new single from Matt Pond's "The Dark Leaves." The song is called "Starting" hear it on their Myspace.

What's on your mind?

2010-04-22T17:07:00.002-05:00

Here's what is floatin around in mine:

1. Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451

2. Facebook, I've retrieved my old password, but I have yet to log in.
I'm scurred!

3. Top Rope Anchor Class on my b-day.. oh May Day how fast you approach... 26 years of life. CELLLLLLL-LE-BRATE good times! C'mon! (In my head this sounds much better than if I were to serenade you.)

4. XHTML + CSS + website, will I ever get done with you?

5. I needs to works my body out... noooooooow!

Puppies, Origami, & Squash

2010-04-21T17:12:00.002-05:00

Oh fluffy Emma, I wish you were mine!

via James Roper
How lovely would a bouquet of origami flowers be?

In the summer I like to eat colorful roasted squash!

"Airplanes"

2010-04-14T17:11:00.004-05:00

The Local Natives

I'd like to be on one, riiiiiiiiiight now.
See ya!!!

Top 5, this April Monday

2010-04-12T17:14:00.002-05:00

1. Mint.com
Trying to budget right now. Currently, I'm living beyond my means, as I am only working one job. I'm probably spending as much as when I worked two jobs, but I've also incurred some "unexpected" bills (surgeries, axels, taxes). That's life. However, I am looking forward to the following to ease pressure on my savings.
a/ May 24, I will begin working at The Cafe again.
b/ August 1, Sheng will move in, cutting my rent and all utilities in half. Woohoo!

2. XHTML
I'm teaching myself how to code my own web site. I'm pretty excited about this. I'm thinking about the url: www.lisaly.us. Currently it is www.lylisa.com which doesn't have the same ring to it. I learned "www.lisaly.com" is owned by a guy named Paul Ly. He's owned it since 2001, and at least for 3 or 4 years, and has never put anything on this domain. This makes me sad. :(

3. Reading
a/ HTML and CSS Web Standards Solutions – A Web Standardistas’ Approach I'm learning!
b/ Graphic Design History collection of essays
c/ Drive Daniel H. Pink
d/ Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them: A Fair and Balanced Look at the Right Al Franken

4. Friends...
or lack thereof. I've been pretty lonely lately. No one wants to hang out with me. Which is how I am getting so much done... I guess something good is coming out of it.

5. Blah...
I need to work out. Bad.

Excuses.

2010-04-09T17:03:00.000-05:00

Where have I been?
No, where have you been?!
I miss you.
So here's my present to you: The Morning Benders' "Excuses"

Mmmm, so charming and sweet.

Snow again?

2010-03-26T12:16:00.005-05:00

Not really. Iowa's had enough of that, but Miike Snow + KCRW = sooo good.

Little one.

2010-03-24T17:15:00.001-05:00

Sometimes, I feel like a tiny child. Especially when...

1. I giggle uncontrollably because I'm being tickled
2. I twirl in dresses and skirts
3. the sky is very blue and the grass is very green
4. I read books I can't put down, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
5. I think about wearing one of these:

Do you know where I can get one?

Driven

2010-03-23T17:42:00.001-05:00

I am reading a book titled "Drive" by Daniel H. Pink. The book questions the current business model (Motivation 2.0): carrots and sticks or in other words, rewards for good work and punishment for poor work. He says this business model doesn't address the third kind of human motivation, that is Motivation 3.0. This model addresses human desires for autonomy, mastery, and purpose. "It is devoted to becoming better and better at something that matters. And it connects that quest for excellence to a larger purpose."

He gives the example of Wikipedia to demonstrate. The free, online encyclopedia is completely self driven, "written collaboratively by the people who use it." Wikipedia defies the 2.0 model because the ndividuals aren't rewarded/paid for the writing they accomplish for wiki entries, it's completely for purpose. It's fun, not work.

I definitely have some motivation 3.0 itching to be used!

Miike Snow...

2010-03-21T20:18:00.000-05:00

has a crazy manstache. Nice.

Top Five.

2010-03-19T16:41:00.006-05:00

1/
Penland!
I've been awarded a full work study scholarship at Penland School of Crafts in North Carolina! For 2 weeks in August, I will learn the old-world craft of letterpress printing, that is my talent back before there were computers. I'm so excited. I've thought for some time, this might be my future: a letterpress studio creating and designing posters/wedding invitations/business cards/etc/etc/etc. I guess we'll find out soon.

2/
The Power of Positive Thinking :: Norman Vincent Peale
I've been reading this book and enjoying every bit of it.

3/
Extra Virgin
I am a HUGE fan of the tapas bar these days. I'm a small person, some might say miniature-sized :) I don't eat a lot, but I love food. Hence my adoration to the trend in tapas bars. They serve a wide variety of appetizers, or small snack-like plates. This style of dining is rooted in Spanish traditions; however, from what I understand, the idea has been Westernized resulting in whole restaurants designed where you order 3-5 different tapas plates to equal to a whole meal. It's sweet... and savory!

4/
Color Me Katie
This girl is the most adorable girl ever. Ever! I'd like to be her friend.

5/
Miike Snow
I love the song Animal. Listen. Right now. Doooooo it.

Heyah!

2010-03-15T18:23:00.003-05:00

I'm recovering rather stress-free with this second and last surgery. I feel much calmer, perhaps as a result of experience. Who knows!? I'm just embracing.

Embracing and letting the excitement build. July 1st on my mind. Then I will finally be able to climb. Until then, I'm listening to She & Him, Volume Two,
out March 23.

A few things.

2010-03-08T19:17:00.003-06:00

1. 2nd surgery, right foot, this Thursday.
Please wish me luck!

2. Axles.
I had to replace both the left and right axles in my little Honda Civic last Thursday. It cost me almost $1000... and let's please not forget I paid almost $2000 in income taxes this year. Money's getting a little tight!

3. First there's the Solera, then there's Hell's Kitchen.
Solera is a delicious tapas restaurant in Minneapolis. We ate delicious paella, and 3 kinds of tapas: pork belly, Spanish cured meats, and scallops. Then Saturday morning, post Avetts, I ate at an amazing brunch at Hell's Kitchen. They make the best homemade peanut butter..... MMMMMMMM!

4. The Avett Brothers...
were awesome Friday night. They can still be my husbands any day.

5. Strengths Finder 2.0
I'm reading this book in my professional development book club at work. After a 30-minute assessment... they've labeled the following as my strengths:

1. Adaptability
People who are especially talented in the Adaptability theme prefer to “go with the flow. ”They tend to be “now” people who take things as they come and discover the future one day at a time.

2. Harmony
People who are especially talented in the Harmony theme look for consensus. They don’t enjoy conflict; rather, they seek areas of agreement.

3. Empathy
People who are especially talented in the Empathy theme can sense the feelings of other people by imagining themselves in others’ lives or others’ situations.

4. Positivity
People who are especially talented in the Positivity theme have an enthusiasm that is contagious. They are upbeat and can get others excited about what they are going to do.

5. Woo (Winning Others Over)
People who are especially talented in the Woo theme love the challenge of meeting new people and winning them over. They derive satisfaction from breaking the ice and making a connection with another person.

Any thoughts on my strengths? Accurate? Inaccurate? No comment?

I'm ready to grow up.

2010-03-03T17:18:00.001-06:00

The past 4 years since college graduation, I feel I was chasing lost college youth. Upon graduation I felt I had missed out. Where had my four years gone? What rebellions had I imparted on society? May 2006, standing at the cusp of adulthood, I looked back at my education: hardly partying, studying more, but where it brought me was wishing I had better memories of the "college experience." Which takes me to where I currently stand: a quieter life. I wake, work, eat, work, evening activity, sleep. That's all. I've never been much of a party-er. My alcohol intolerance may have contributed to that. (Many people of Asian descent, although oddly not appearing in any of my siblings, experience an unusual flushing reaction after drinking alcohol — even in very small amounts. This is caused by a genetic disorder in which the body is unable to break down alcohol completely.)

All in all, my quiet, subdued life is okay.

Dear Yvon,

2010-02-25T17:30:00.001-06:00

I thoroughly enjoyed your lecture Tuesday evening at the Great Hall in the MU at Iowa State University. You've revitalized my interest in the human impact on Earth. I think little of the ways I can minimize my carbon footprint, sure, I use compact florescents and invest in reusable grocery bags, but what else can I do? Key points I'd like to highlight from your speech:

1. 97% Cure research, 3% Research of cancer causes
I was surprised by this breakdown of the Race for the Cure fundraising, nor have I thought so bluntly about it. Why aren't we studying the cause of cancer to help prevent the proliferation of such diseases? That 3% monies has discovered that we must be the cause of such disease because societies that are less modern and less "toxic" do not carry as high a rate of cancer as we do. Bluntly, cure research equates to money for the drug companies, whereas resolving the cause of cancer could mean the end of cancer and no money for drug companies.

2. Half of 1% of Patagonia's budget...
is used to advertise itself. That is impressive. This is a highly successful company barely advertising their own product. They are successful because they know their client, they make quality goods that last a long time. Not only this, but they stand by their product. They have a recycling program, for consumers to rid of their old clothing to be reproduced to new items in "green" fashion. But their philosophy and hope is that their products never get to the point of "recycle" but rather a lifetime of use.

3. How much money do we need anyway.
You're a non-business oriented, business man. Several times during your speech you eluded to this and even outright said it explicitly. I learned later you donate 30% of your income to charity. You're right, how much money do we really need in life anyhow. It's just money.

4. Flex time.
Your whole business philosophy considers how you live your life. When you first got into business, you were only innovating products because you, yourself were a climber and you saw the effects the designs were doing to the Earth. Over time you considered these things and instilled your thoughts in your employees so they understand. "Yeah, leading an examined life, I always say, is a pain in the ass. It adds an element of complexity to business that most businessmen don't want to hear about." Yvon Choinard

5. "I think I'd better end this soon."
What a great way to end a lecture. I too think I'd better end my raves for Patagonia. I'm a consumer everyday, and without even trying, you've convinced me to be yours, quite possibly forever.

I absolutely love this...

2010-02-21T19:57:00.009-06:00

via Dolce Press

I think maybe, just maybe, I might want to own my very own letterpress boutique studio. I've never done letterpress, but I've always loved an articulate design on gorgeous heavy, textured paper. This may possibly be the answer to combining my desire to work with my hands with my love for graphic design. We will see, for now, I must work out.
<3's to you!

THE MANY MEs

2010-02-17T17:12:00.011-06:00

Sometimes, when I'm at work, I play with Photo Booth.
A lot of times, when I'm at work, I'm ridiculous. ;)
All the times, when I'm at work, I'm listening to music.

Livin life the only way I know how...

2010-02-16T18:09:00.004-06:00

...and slowly learning along the way.

The year of 2009 was fruitful for me. Not only did I become passionate about rock climbing, but I also managed to get my heart torn up and become closer to God amidst working two jobs: one full-time at the university, and a second part-time at the wonderful and amazing Café. I certainly didn't need to continue working at The Café after having landed my first, real job, but I'd fallen in love. Sigh, as the story always goes with me ;) Yadda yadda yadda, 365 days later...

Lets just say, this Friday, with Sue from H&R Block, I'll be taking Taxes 101. Almost certainly I'll be writing a check, not receiving one. Such is life.

Recently purchased music:
Coconut Records :: Nighttiming
Kings of Convenience :: Declaration of Dependence

Warm Fuzzies.

2010-02-09T17:07:00.001-06:00

I was rather ho hum last night after work; I didn't have plans last night and was unsure how to fill my time. After reading the latest Yoga Journal, featuring Sting and his wife, I felt fully recharged and had an especially fulfilling evening. One article emphasized RESPECT and the DIVINITY within us. Whether you believe in God or a god, to hold any god within us, deserves respect. The jist, as we all learned in elementary school: treat unto others, as you wish to be treated.

In this spirit, I...
1. shoveled my own and my neighbors walk
2. made scotcharoos and peanut butter krispie treats for my coworkers
3. wrote a thank you note to my boss for writing me a letter of recommendation
4. made a homemade valentine with my sewing machine and some sharpies
5. buckled down on a special Valentine's mix
6. and this morning woke early again to shovel the 3" that accumulated since last night on both our walks

Today, I have warm fuzzies... and it's not from the pink sweater I'm wearing that my sister bought me for Christmas. Plus I found this picture yesterday, and I have looked at it numerous times on my computer today. I can't look at this without smiling. Awwww, baby panda. Mine is the second one from the right, in the bottom row; I shall name you Peek-a-Boo.

Speeeeeeeeeeeeeeed.

2010-02-04T23:13:00.002-06:00

No, not the movie starring Keanu, but the event my coworker planned and executed. It was a speed dating event in Des Moines. Since I was working it, I wasn't participating, but I give my props to those who did! I'm not sure I would be gutsy enough to sign up for such an event. 2.5 minutes per person and definitely in the guys' favor; just about 2 to 1 ratio. The venue was pretty awesome too, Blue Moon Dueling Piano Bar in West Des Moines. They rocked the 80s tunes and it turned out that the bouncer is a guy I knew from high school. All and all a fairly successful evening for the participants and my coworker, great!

I might be pushing the limits on my foot though. It's a little sore, and leaked a little from too much flexing? The icy parking lot slip, surely didn't help either. Thank goodness tomorrow is Friday!

5 things.

2010-02-02T10:03:00.004-06:00

1/ Beach House special recording for Pitchfork. Loooooove it. Especially her little kick at the end.

2/ Just found Kutiman. Dig it.

3/ I'm applying to the Penland School of Crafts.
They offer an introductory 2-week letterpress workshop in the summer. I hope I get in, fingers crossed. I could use a North Carolina get-away. Goodbye Iowa, Hello Avett Brothers.

4/ Studio on Fire.
Maybe one day, I can open my own letterpress studio and design invitations, posters, business cards, etc. I think this is what I'd really love to do.

5/ Max Wanger.
I wonder if this guy has a screening process for clients. I swear, all the people he shoots are soooooo beautiful. Or, perhaps he's just that good.

Winter Depression.

2010-02-01T18:13:00.004-06:00

In my kitchen. I've been spending waaaaay too much time in here.

Foot surgery, has been going well. At least as well as can be expected considering they cut me up and pieced me back together. The whole process has been pretty amazing to witness. I mean I'm up and walking comfortably after just 2.5 weeks. That's not to say this isn't without its hardships. I am depressed. Lately all I've done is eat. Eat. And then eat again. For someone who despises that full feeling, I've been feeling it all too much. In about 10 days, I will be able to do some light aerobic work. I can't wait! My plan is do the elliptical or stationary bike for at least an hour or so. Then perhaps I will hit the weight machines to try to rebuild my climbing strength. Why isn't it July 1?

My eyes are affixed to this date... On this day it will be 4 months after my next surgery. Then I will get to climb! I sooooo miss my climbing.

In other news, new glasses seen above. Thoughts?

2 Wks.

2010-01-28T21:01:00.002-06:00

Bandage is off! Today Dr. Nelson pulled out some suture tails, and said I didn't have to wear the bandage anymore. She also said I am able to take showers again! Woohoo. None of this one-leg-in, one-leg-out, bath-time "fun". Top five for today?

1. Showers
Mmmmmm, showers.

2. Jim Cramer's Stay Mad for Life.
He's gonna help me "Get rich, stay rich... and even make my kids richer." I'm not sure I believe all this mumbo jumbo. I mean how can I trust a guy who let's the cover of his book look like an ad for McDonald's be telling me how to budget my capital? I guess we'll see.

3. MoneyWell.
A budgeting application I found and am testing. #2 is really making me think about ensuring my future is well-taken care of. Putting aside 2 to 4 grand a year, can make all the difference!

4. Davy:Coconut Records, IRM:Charlotte Gainsbourg, Transference:Spoon
I want to buy all these records, but Best Buy in Ames doesn't have the first two. I could buy them immediately on iTunes, but something about owning the actual art in my hands is just so much better. I'm an artist what can I say?

5. Plastic on my windows.
I didn't do this last year, and I paid for it. My January bill in 2009 was $140. This year, I only paid $78. I dig that. Thanks, Shengy, for doing this with me. :)

1 Wk.

2010-01-22T17:10:00.001-06:00

Hey hey! I made it! I'm still alive. :) 1 week down.

This surgery has really slowed me down. I'm reluctant to do much. Lots of throbbing = a lot of time in bed. It has made me realize and appreciate my independence. I used to do what I wanted, when I wanted. Now I require help or assistance. I discovered it is hard for me to ask for help, wishing I could just do it myself. On the upside, I've had time to do other things!

On my todo list:
1. update my portfolio
2. draw/paint again
3. read more
4. search for new music
5. spend time with friends
6. ... (taking suggestions)

Whoa Surgery!@#

2010-01-16T19:11:00.004-06:00

What an experience!
5 things worth mentioning:

1. Piercing.
They made me take out my nose piercing. I haven't done this since I got it, way back in the fall of 2004. I was mildly worried, thought maybe it would close up, and was about time to rid of my act of rebellion. But after the procedure it popped right in. :) Now I'm thinking it might be time to change the jewelry.

2. Dr. Fears.
He was my anesthesiologist. "Never fear, Dr. Fears is here." Yup, he said that.

3. Fuzzy little man peach.
Have you ever seen Old Greg? It's a skit from a British comedy show called The Mighty Boosh. When I finally made it back to my room post op, Pohlman was there waiting for me. I didn't have my glasses on, and I may have been a bit groggy from the anesthesia... squinting, I tried to reach for him and muttered the words "fuzzy." He reached out to my hand and I said "c'mere you fuzzy little man peach." :) Pretty sure he busted a gut, and I was none the wiser.

4. Very impressed with the Mary Greeley Medical Center.
My stay at the hospital was very nice. It made me nervous that so many hands were involved in my stay, but everyone seemed knowledgeable and concerned about my comfort. After I made it home, that evening the nurse called to make sure I wasn't feeling too nauseous. And the following day I received a wake-up call at 9:30 from my doctor checking up on me.

5. Drugs.
I'm on a couple different things. Hydrocodone for pain and Ibuprofen for swelling. Very thankful for drugs, but they upset my tummy.

Overall my experience was not bad. In the words of Sheng, "I'm halfway done."
I can't wait to climb again this summer!

I'm obsessed...

2010-01-13T17:07:00.002-06:00

with Our Swords...

and oddly attracted to tall, slender men dressed in flannel with beards or the potential to grow beards as seen below, Ben Bridwell of Band of Horses, and suggested in my infatuation with the Avett Brothers.

Also,
surgery at noon tomorrow.
Rather than flowers or get well wishes,
please deliver one of the aforementioned men.
Greatly appreciated. Please and thank you.

Charlotte n Beck

2010-01-11T17:10:00.000-06:00

Heaven Can Wait

J'taime. Doesn't she look like a younger Feist?

I don't have to take care of her.
I get to take care of her.
:)

I love this.

2010-01-09T14:06:00.002-06:00

Also,
according to findyourspot.com
my top 3 places to live include
1. Seattle, Washington
2. Portland, Oregon
3. Denver, Colorado

Thoughts?

More Music.

2010-01-08T17:00:00.000-06:00

Pretty excited about this. Pretty excited.

And Charlotte Gainsbourg.
Her voice is so airy. She is the love child of French pop artist Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birken who's worked with Feist before. Her latest album is produced by Beck. And who doesn't like Beck? Her song "Heaven can Wait" is awesome.

We talk...

2010-01-07T17:17:00.003-06:00

What?

{Sigh} "Nothing."

[Insert confused look]
"No, you can't do that."

{I smile}
"There are no words to describe this...
...
It's just, sometimes when I'm with you,
I get this feeling. It runs throughout my whole body.
...
And it takes my breath away. Ya know?"

"Yah. I know exactly what you mean.

"Actually, that wasn't too bad."

"That pretty much describes it perfectly."
[He sighs with a smile]
"I think it's why we smile so much at each other."

{I smile}

We talk...
even when there are no words to say.

I like that.

Music 2010

2010-01-06T17:30:00.004-06:00

Let this year's music hoarding begin:

Vampire Weekend
Happy. Hopeful. Chill. Vampire Weekend's Contra. In full, via NPR.
I am very much looking forward to this dominating my spring playlists.

The Avett Brothers
March 5. I've got a date, with the Avett Brothers! For Christmas Pohlman bought us tickets to their show at First Ave. in Minneapolis. This will be my third time seeing them. Pretty much psyched. Pretty much.

Timothy Seth Avett as Darling

As experienced below. Pretty much the best thing ever.

Beach House
Diggin their new song "Norway"

Never much for resolutions,

2010-01-05T17:10:00.001-06:00

but thought this was great! It's a resolution generator... b/c I'm so lazy that I can't think of my own. I actually thought my first result was very fitting for me.

Though I've never known myself to not listen to my heart.
I guess that's a good thing.

For my Loves, Happy New Year...

2010-01-03T01:16:00.003-06:00

...a song "About Love" by Timothy Seth Avett as Darling

Look what I gots for X-mas!

2009-12-29T15:59:00.002-06:00

That's right! My very own rope! And it's fuschia! Thanks, Shengy!

I heart...

2009-12-28T17:26:00.000-06:00

1. This Wedding poster. By W+K Studio.

2. Being honest.

3. Cuddling.

4. Our Endless Numbered Days by Iron and Wine.

5.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
It's been a long time since anyone has treated me so well. Thank you.
Your welcome. You deserve it.
Are you sure you're okay? Happy tears?
{nodding} I'm perfect.
...
I know.
...
...
This is pretty awesome.
I know.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

A Belated Merry Christmas!

2009-12-27T15:43:00.006-06:00

As per my usual, I designed the family Christmas card this year. And as usual, I procrastinated til the very week of Christmas. :) I'm pretty sure everyone got it prior to the day of celebration, but you'd think I'd have a better handle on this, seeings how it is always the same date. :) Somehow I never learn.

Poem by Sheng. Design by Lisa.

So, I'm totally sporting a 'stache in this picture.
A while back I blogged about an outdoor wedding where the guests and wedding party had fake mustaches. Recently, at my sister's wedding, I purchased just enough for the whole family. :) The pictures turned out great! What a great night.

Diggin on the past.

2009-12-23T17:34:00.002-06:00

Nostalgic, I never regret any of the decisions I've made. Although many results ended poorly, I followed my heart, and how can I be mad with that?

As I come upon another decision, I weigh the options.
I have awful genetic bunions. (Thanks Dad!) For the most part, they only hurt when I work long days at The Café, 7 hours on my feet with no rest. After a long brunch shift, my feet will throb so bad that I have to keep my feet under cold water, ice them and am bed ridden for hours. Worse case scenario: feet throbbing so hard it keeps me from falling asleep. Yesterday I went to a podiatrist to hear my options.

Surgery is probably inevitable unless I decide to become a pile and never do anything physical to irritate it further. Recuperating time after surgery is 6-8 weeks sedentary, 3-4 months away from climbing and yoga. Serious. Let the tears commence.

My other option is to wait until I'm older, and it gets worse. The procedure though rather intensive is fairly common among older individuals. Two of my coworkers at Iowa State have already gotten this done in the past year.

While chatting with my bro, I finally figured out my reluctance: depression.
This one surgery will cut out all my current hobbies: The Café, climbing and yoga.

My bro, like the good brother he is, encouraged me to look on the bright side. I'd have all this time to...
1. paint
2. learn flash and html
3. read
4. learn guitar
5. start that project of the story of my family
6. and update my portfolio

Still. I sigh. And rather than think about all this: I watch this...

Soooo freakin good!

For the one who is so far...

2009-12-21T09:01:00.005-06:00

I'm pretty sure you know who you are.
t>

Fringe benefits!

2009-12-13T20:50:00.008-06:00

I cut my bangs, AKA fringe in hair lingo. Ya dig it?

Scene: Café Sunday brunch hustle and bustle.
Picture 9 servers running amongst 30 tables, a crowd of about 15-20 people waiting for tables, another 5 waiting for coffee or bread from our bakery, add 3 hosts, a manager, oh and another 6 or 7 guys on the line running the kitchen and you get the madness that ensues for seven straight hours at The Café's Sunday brunch. Amongst all this...

Chef Kurt: What's different about you?
Me: Hmmmmm, nothing.
CK: Noooo, your hair's different. You cut it?
Me: Mmmm, ish.
Kurt proceeds to give me eyes.
CK: You styled it.
I smirk, eying him back.
Me: Ish.
CK: You look good.
Silence just staring at each other as Kurt slides in real close up to my ear and whispers: Meow! I burst into a fit of giggles right then and there.

Watch...

2009-12-11T17:03:00.001-06:00

Don't you wish you were climbing right now?

Also, can't get enough of Matt and Kim today. I love "Daylight" and "Lessons Learned". After work I will promptly buy this CD.

12-16 Inches!

2009-12-10T11:05:00.002-06:00

Yesterday's snow day was awesome!
I slept in until past noon, some wonderful boys shoveled my car out of the snow, I decorated my Christmas tree (thanks Mama Zimmerman), a wonderful boy made me dinner, and then I met my dearest friend Anj at DG's Taphouse. Our Wilson house friends joined us later, and the evening was full of laughs. I can't wait for the Saturday evening, Wilson house dance party!

Adult Snowdays!

2009-12-09T12:13:00.000-06:00

Sweeeeeeeet.

Crap.

2009-12-02T16:44:00.002-06:00

I just realized I forgot to pay rent. I'm not too worried, Ben's pretty awesome.

No, You're a Hot Toddy!
I stayed at The Café til almost midnight last night working on the hot toddy menu. Oh the things I do for that place.

Backcountry
Somebody please help me; I can't stop shopping this site. I have an addiction.

Paid paid vacation.

2009-11-28T14:56:00.004-06:00

Since I work for a state university, I got Thursday and Friday off for the holiday. I seized the opportunity to pick up some extra shifts at The Café. I mean, who doesn't like a lil extra extra for the holiday season? Friday I pulled a double and worked from 8:00 AM-3:00 PM and 5:30-10:30 PM. It was a long day, but so worth it. Not only did I make just about $200, I also did yoga in between shifts, and finally put away the clean laundry that had been sitting in my dryer for uhhhhhhhbout a week now. :)

Tonight I "Café" from 4:00-10:30 PM only to go home, sleep, and return from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM.

Quite the weekend. If you're in the mood for some upbeat tunes, I've been listening to Coconut Records. A quirky, adorable actor named Jason Shwartzman of Rushmore and Darjeeling Limited fame is the lead of this band. I love his movies... and now his music.

Enjoy!

Top 5's

2009-11-25T10:26:00.009-06:00

My revamped top five daily sites:
1. Notcot
2. Steep and Cheap
3. Sartorialist
4. Apartment Therapy
5. Gmail

Top 5 Thanks this holiday:
1. My twin brother and his cooking skillz.
(Dear Shengy, thank you for cooking this year's Thanksgiving meal. Even though I don't like traditional T-day entrees, I still really appreciate the fortune to have one.)
2. My friends.
I am so blessed to have many friend circles in Ames. In any event, I always have someone to turn to. Last night in tears, I ran to Stewart after a dramatic fiasco at Alpha Copies. He knew just what to do: hold me tight and listen.
3. Talented people.
I am very thankful for all the talented people in the world today. I try to imagine my world without all the artists who visually inspire me, or musicians who I listen to all-day-everyday-non-stop, or the very food I consume at loved places like The Café, I just can't do a day without art.
4. Family.
:) They're the best. I am photo-editing images from my sister's Oct. wedding. They will be revealed in due time.
5. Climbing.
I never thought this would be something I could include in my repertoire. Ever. Who knew?

I heart Jason Schwartzman,

2009-11-23T17:11:00.000-06:00

NPR, and the word awkward.

Also, Wes Anderson is a genius.

He says he doesn't want to see me get hurt.

2009-11-22T00:39:00.002-06:00

How does he, of all people, think he can say that to me? The past two years all he's done is hurt and use me. In one fell swoop he brought it all back; my heart sinks and all I feel is achy. It hurts, and my eyes are swollen. I...

China Doll

2009-11-19T17:10:00.004-06:00

For the second day in a row, my outfit has spurred a coworker of mine to tell me how cute I am in the context of a doll... I guess I'm okay with that. I did wear dresses both days. :)

In completely other news, not at all related to being Chinese or looking like a doll, watch this sweet video of climber, Matt Segal scaling "China Doll," a 5.14.

Matt Segal 5.14 trad from renan ozturk on Vimeo.

I suggest turning off the sound of the video and playing Plan B's "Backside Grind pt II" It's my obsession of the day.

Here I am.

2009-11-16T17:10:00.000-06:00

Top 5 from the past two weeks.

1. Backbone.
A couple Fridays ago, Chris, Rob, Eric, Pohlman and I went to Backbone for a night of s'mores and camping, only to rise early in the morning for a full day of climbing.

Left to right: Chris climbing "Slot Machine" (rated a 5.8), Rob belaying, Alisha and Cory, me, Eric, Brie and her dog, Milo.

Last climb of the day. Here I am having my hand at "Monster Crack" with Pohlman belaying me. It is rated a 5.10a on a scale of 5.2-5.15. I didn't get much farther than pictured, but I had already climbed 4 routes earlier; I was exhausted and quite content with my day's work.

2. These United States.
Pohlman and I caught this show at the M-Shop this past Saturday night. These guys are way entertaining. Their opener was Frontier Ruckus, under the same label as the Avett Brothers, and their set was pretty decent too. What can I say? I'm a fan of the banjo.

3. Welcome Home Marty Yeah!
My friend, Marty moved back from SB, California. It will be great to have him around again. He's one of those friends that pushes me in thought; to be mindful of who I am, where I am going, what I strive to be. He pushes me to the brink of uncomfortable, because if he doesn't, who will?

4. Anj.
Really pretty Indian girl. She's my "wife". Enough said.

5. Gear.
Bought a friggen sweet 0 degree Northface Snowshoe sleeping bag.

Pretty sweet day.

2009-11-01T21:20:00.006-06:00

Today was one of those amazing Fall days: the air was crisp with the smell of earth, the sun was shining just enough to roll that Fall chill right off your shoulder, and the clouds were fluffy and white. I didn't work today! That also made my day. :) I went brunching with Jaci, bike riding with Stewart, and then frolfing with Dennis and Stewart. It was amazing!

Check out this sky behind Dennis and me!

"Less space, less things, more life."

2009-10-30T17:10:00.001-05:00

Hearts to Apartment Therapy! It motivates me to make my small, cute apartment even more homey. Here are my favorites today:

Ode to Lacey.
A while ago an friend of a friend stayed with me for about two weeks. In that short time span she ruined my dining table, broke a set of blinds, and managed to piss off my downstairs neighbor. All water under the bridge, right? My dining table is still functional, yet not quite clean and modern with a ruined finish. I think the above idea will be an adorable mask. I can thrift some lacey doilies, perhaps a mid-century textile, then place plexiglass over the top. Instant DIY (do-it-yourself) for fairly cheap!

I'm not sure when I will do this project, as I've been investing in other hobbies as of late: climbing and snowboarding gear. I know this is oh-so-boring, but siblings, for Christmas this year, how about some giftcards to Backcountry or Jax? Or Hobby Lobby? I have a Van Gogh print from Amsterdam needing framing attention.

I also really like this stitched text, fitting for me. (Also found on Apt. Therapy)

Sigh. I have some pretty cute text's that would be adorable stitched.

Trick or Suite!

2009-10-28T17:10:00.002-05:00

It's Halloween at work today! Our suite did a "Farmer's Market" theme.

Meet Farmer Ly. She wears pigtails and flannel, and bakes delicious pumpkin muffins at one in the morning for the masses.

This is her stand; she's a firm believer in eating fresh and local...

... but she has trouble keeping her office free of cobwebs!

I wish it was Halloween more often! Jeans and flannel for work attire? Heck yes.
PS. Taking votes on costume ideas for this weekend:
A. Lil Asian Kitty. MEOW!
B. Mulan?
C. Smurfette?
D. other?
Thoughts, anyone?

5 Things.

2009-10-26T17:17:00.004-05:00

1. I love Travis and Pohlman!
I had absent-mindedly agreed to help Travis cover his Monday night shift, completely forgetting that is my favorite night to climb at Wall-Nut. I was anxious with anger Sunday morning when I realized my mistake. Pohlman smiled and shouted "Why do you do work so much and do this to yourself?" And I replied, defeatedly, "Because, I love Travis." Later that evening, when I went Pohl-manning for dinner, I found out they both had been looking for people to cover the shift I no longer wanted! Travis ended up finding someone, too. Aren't my coworkers great? :)

2. Great Lake Swimmers. I'm going to see these guys tonight with Jaci, Pohlman and Stewart!

I am very excited!

3. Tuesday.
New Café menu! I'm pumped! They're going to add a Café Plate appetizer including toasted crostini, seared and roasted pork belly with a port wine reduction, Moody blue cheese, figs, and mustard spread. It rocked my taste buds! Plus my favorite sous chef created it. Hearts to Jonny V!

4. Bar shift.
Tuesday evenings, I am Aaron's bar girl at The Café. It's one of my favorite serving shifts because I get 6 tables all to myself AND I get to work with Aaron and be feisty! He's so much fun. He's been mad at me because I've given up my shift the past month to go to Portland, be sick, or see my "husband" Scott Avett. I have a lot of built up feistiness for him, so I hope he's ready!

5. Falling for you. Part 2.
Another thing I love about Fall, is the seasonal pumpkin-everything! Pumpkin spice lattes and pumpkin bread! I have to bake the later for a "Trick or Suite" at work. Tuesday will be a late night, but pumpkin bread is sooo worth it!

Falling for you.

2009-10-25T17:09:00.004-05:00

I love fall! Yesterday and today I raked the beautiful red, orange and yellow leaves that covered my entire lawn. It was sooo much work! I raked for a couple hours, then went to work from 4-11 PM, woke early, only to go back to work from 8 AM-3 PM, and then come home to bag the seven large piles of foliage. After two hours of bagging, I still didn't even get it all to fit! Crazy! I wish I'd taken a before shot. It was madness!

My landlord, Ben offered to pay me, but I just said it was a good workout!

PS. Tonight I'm Pohl-Manning with Jaci and Little Allison. :) That just means we're eating at The Café to keep our friend Pohlman company.

OMG, I love this girl!

2009-10-21T10:04:00.008-05:00

I'm sure I've posted these pictures before, but I am updating my website, and going through old images, reminiscing. Lacey and I got to hang out a little bit before and after the Avett Brothers show (AMAZING, BTW) and I've determined: I need to visit this girl more often. Why are you so far away? Lacey, let's move somewhere together! Colorado? California? Thanks for a great night last night! Hope to see you soon!

Lacey and I Spring 2007, Iowa City.

Lacey and I at the 2007 Des Moines Arts Festival, Summer 2007.

Lacey and I, Thanksgiving 2008?

Lacey and I Spring 2009, Portland, Oregon.

And of course the most recent, Lin's Wedding. Fall 2009.

Avett Brothers Tonight in Iowa City!

2009-10-20T16:15:00.002-05:00

Countdown over. Tonight, Jaci, Pohlman, Greg, Charlie, Travis and I will caravan east towards Iowa City for an evening with the Avetts at the Englert Theater. I am so excited! Woooohooo!

Weekend Update with Senior Correspondent Lisa Ly

2009-10-18T15:40:00.003-05:00

Thursday October 15: a wet and soggy but highly-anticipated-and-without-disappointment evening with the wonderfully, talented Envy Corps. Later I sipped cocoa with the amazingly-awesome McClanahan duo, Dan and Alex and hung out with band drummer, Scott.

Friday October 16: Wall-Nut Creek Climbing Gym. An evening of rope-climbing with Nick and Ken. Climbed up the East wall's crimpy, jibby white route. Sweet!

Saturday October 17: Iowa State's 3:3 record gained one on the win side. Go State!

Sunday October 18: Brunchy brunch brunch brunch. As you may recall or not, I hate this shift, but I'm helping Kevin out so I can get Friday nights back. I'm sure I'll forgive myself for working 7 days a week when I'm old but have enough money to travel during retirement. Right!? Who's with me?

In other news:

Working on updating my portfolio to include some of my work over the past year. So stay tuned for that!

And finally an anecdote to end: last weekend I worked Saturday night and an older gentleman at one of my tables complimented my smile,"Why that's a pretty smile, I bet that cost Dad a pretty penny." I smiled even bigger and let him know I've never had any work done besides a good cleaning. He said it was my best feature. How nice to hear! :) These are the nights I love my job! So until then, smile and listen to great music!

Much better thank you.

2009-10-13T16:53:00.005-05:00

My temperature is down to 98.2, I'm still coughing, but tomorrow I should be my usual feisty self.

Until then, more Oregon memories.

And yes, that is Sheng in the background. Of course it is.

101.6 Degrees Farenheight

2009-10-11T21:10:00.002-05:00

I am most definitely sick.
Cough, cough.

In place of someone to take care of me, I visited Target.
Purchased comforts:
1. large, king-sized feather-down pillow
2. 400 thread count pillowcases
3. Ramen noodles
4. hot chocolate
5. scented candles
6. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia season 4

Jaci, I love you, but I definitely got this from you.

Oh My Goodness!

2009-10-09T11:58:00.007-05:00

I might beat this till it's dead. But I can't wait for this show! My new favorite song off the new album I and Love and You, "January Wedding" by the Avett Brothers.

I will see youuuuuuu in a week and a half!

Also, my sister made me watch this, and I am ever grateful.
Hugh Laurie is soooo cute! I love House.

Broke down...

2009-10-08T23:37:00.001-05:00

and bought the DELUXE.
Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday to me... a little bit early. :)

Mmmm, I also ordered some quickdraws through Ash at Wall-nut Creek Climbing Gym. They're pricey!

Also...
I'm gearing up for winter... I'd like to buy some snowboarding outerwear: snowpants and jacket are on my list. I have goggles and mittens and I can rent the board and boots from Seven Oaks. I can't wait for the first big snow! Until then, more Oregon love:

Me and the siblings! Sheng, Bobby and Lacey

Me and my bros! Sheng, Bobby, and the newest addition, Denver!

The Lovely Bride.

2009-10-06T21:40:00.002-05:00

As you can see, I haven't quite mastered my photo editing skillz. They don't match!

In Oregon.

2009-10-04T22:06:00.003-05:00

More to come. :)

My fave local band.

2009-09-28T10:10:00.013-05:00

I was introduced to The Envy Corps in 2006. I met the drummer, Scott Yoshimura (Yoshi) through my friend Matthew. Yosh is my Asian brotha from another motha. They are performing FREE at ISU's Homecoming this year. My thoughts?
Heck yes.

Photography: McClanahan Studio Design: Lisa Ly
This poster is 8 feet long by 3.5 feet tall. Sweet.

Photography: McClanahan Studio Design: Lisa Ly
This is a design for the Iowa State Daily, our campus newspaper.
There are 14,000 in circulation. Hot.

Other posters...

In other news...
This is probably pretty good.
Modeled after Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot, how could it be bad?

Also...
Monsters of Folk is Conor Oberst, Mike Mogis, M.Ward and Jim James.
Listen at NPR!

Yeasayer's Tightrope

2009-09-25T11:13:00.004-05:00

AWESOME.
This song is my slacklining anthem. :)

LaBlogotheque's version is great, too. Love that acoustic stuff.

Happy Friday! xoxo!

I just got cement thrown at me! Cement?

2009-09-23T17:20:00.003-05:00

This story begins with a weary evening. I worked at The Café last night, very mediocre. Lots of "campers" (customers who stay at a table for hours, meaning you get less tables throughout the night and thus less tips), sub-par tippers (in general I've noticed people are not tipping as much), lots of women (I can say this and clearly not be sexist, but women tend to be needier, require more attention, and always desire separate checks, ugh, really just annoying!). I didn't get home until 11 when I proceeded to bubble-wrap all the fun wedding stuff.

This took an hour.

Around 12 AM I finally begin to relax, my day is over. I think about showering, perhaps reading, maybe interneting, or at the very least just washing my face, but it was so late it took a long time just to contemplate doing any of those things. I decide to shop the "Bikes" section on the Ames Craigslist. (I'm thinking about buying a top rack for my Honda Civic and possibly a road bike.) Around 1 AM I am finally in bed, but can't find my cell phone, okay, I will use my annoying alarm clock. At least I know it will wake me up.

6 hours later, I wake feeling exhausted and dizzy, but I ignore it; I have things to do, and the day must go on. I work for the better part of the morning, fairly efficiently thinking I will use my lunch hour to ship the last stresses of the wedding out of my possession.

This is where it get's good.

I go home, pack up the goods and awkwardly carry the heavy box to UPS. I go to the branch closest to my home, on East Lincoln Way, still a nice 10 minute drive through traffic. I get there to see that the branch closes during the lunch hour!: 11 to 3. What! Fine. I will drive across town to the the UPS branch in Campus Town. 15 minutes later I see that branch has shut down. Greaaaaaaaaaaaaat. Their makeshift signs tell me to drive to Northern Lights where they've moved.

Ohhhhhhh, Northern Lights.

Why that's up near my house... where I started! Ooooooookay, coming full circle, I drive past my house and realize I forgot to pack something. But then I think "Oh forget it, I've stopped at two places already, I'll just bring it with me on the plane." I finally make it to the 3rd branch of UPS. This one is open! And a nice man is kind enough to put down his 3 Snickers bars and carry my heavy box in for me. (He just might be the best part of my day.) I guess my packing wasn't good enough, UPS deemed it unsafe with all the glass things, so they offered to package for me... for the nice fee of $20. That will be an $80 total, plus $20 of bubble-wrap I did myself.

Whatever, I'm done with it...

Now I debate going back to work or just going home. Though it is only 1:30 PM, I have that headache and dizziness from this morning that I've conveniently ignored. On my drive back I contemplate work? home? work? home? work? home? At a stoplight I am surrounded by construction workers and blast my Girl Talk to drown out their hoots, hollers, and whistles for my attention. I thought, "maybe I should roll up my window," just as I didn't... a chunk of wet cement flies through my window and lands on my leg, sliding down all chunky and gross. My jaw drops. Did they really just throw cement at me?...

Verdict. Yes. They did in fact throw cement at me.

Today is stupid. I'm going home.

One of my fave songs.

2009-09-22T10:40:00.004-05:00

The Avett Brothers - Go to Sleep, Live at Memorial Hall from Leon Godwin on Vimeo.

Obsessed much?

Not Eating...

2009-09-21T23:15:00.007-05:00

A. because I want to look good at my sister's wedding...
B. just kidding, actually my dining table has been taken over by wedding!

Lin, it will be in the mail by tomorrow afternoon or Wednesday.

8-hour day.

2009-09-18T09:37:00.029-05:00

7:19 AM
BZZZZZZZ. Whoa, this $2-plastic, 50s alarm clock from Salvation Army really works.

8:00 AM
Turns out I really can look nice in the morning if I wake up early and sleep 9 hours the night before.

8:02 AM
Ohhhhhhh there it is. Found my cell phone in the grass outside my house. Good thing it didn't rain rain rain on me.

8:24 AM
YES! Someone made a cake for their birthday. MMMM, banana cake for breakfast, that's totally healthy, right? What? It has fruit!

8:30 AM
Whoa? 20 work e-mails since 5:04 PM yesterday, what the heck?

8:53 AM
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. I love this book! And now it's a movie. Awesome.

9:23 AM
Sweet, I collated a 38-page program booklet for Julie. We can make this in-house now, who knew?

9:44 AM
Jane Eyre. I love this book. And this is the sweetest cover design I've ever seen.

9:49 AM
Colorshow by the Avett Brothers.

9:59 AM
I love Explosions in the Sky.
This looks like an awesome book.

10:01 AM
Frank Gonzales. I need to paint more.

11:26 AM
Composing an e-mail, listening to Girl Talk, whilst cutting out 100, $20 Cybucks for work.

I made these to resemble our money, only using our mascot, Cy.

1:04 PM
Lunch hour. Actually, errand hour.
Home, take out the trash, start the dishwasher, water my dying plants, pay my Qwest bill, fill my gas tank, drink water and mascara my lashes. Didn't have time to run to Hobby Lobby. iPod shuffles to perfect song for the end of errand hour: Hang Me Up to Dry by the Cold War Kids.

3:27 PM
Still cutting out Cybucks. I had to take a break and went down to Shellie's office for a snack. She's got me figured out, I will do anything you want with a smile, if and only if, you bring me a snack. I'm partial to salty snacks or Reeses PB eggs (the big ones with extra pb, not the tiny ones). Today, she was gone, but left me pear Jelly Bellys in her absence.

3:38 PM
I'm annoyed that I'm still cutting Cybucks and that these pieces of hair didn't stay up.

3:56 PM
Done cutting Cybucks.

4:20 PM
Still nursing a cup of coffee, now cold, from 11:30 AM and currently editing a brochure.

4:35 PM
Deer Tick. Awesome!

4:58 PM
I'm out. Peace and love! xoxoxoxoxoxo

I'm sad.

2009-09-17T16:25:00.001-05:00

I just sold my ticket to Bon Iver for Saturday b/c I couldn't find anyone to cover my shift. Tears.

I would very much like this.

2009-09-16T11:45:00.006-05:00

Gift unto me.
This guy's commentary is pretty humorous. My favorite lines are "introspective moments with mustache" and "pretty awes." I love the art, definitely the talented work of lead singer Scott Avett. So if you're feeling generous please contribute to the I-(and)-love-(and)-you-Lisa Fund.

Sites I internet daily.

2009-09-13T20:22:00.003-05:00

1. Notcot
2. NPR
3. Craigslist Ames/Des Moines
4. Gmail
5. Max Wanger. Great, great stuff.

Bored.

2009-09-11T17:00:00.000-05:00

So I drew this on the computer.

Top 5, Wednesday September 9

2009-09-09T17:04:00.000-05:00

1. This packaging design. Simply lovely!
2. Priscilla Ahn. I've been listening to her all day and will buy her CD as soon as possible. I like her "Boobs" song.
3. Reading: The Chronicles of Narnia, in whole.
4. My Jaci buying me my favorite Café deli: the Italian sub on ciabatta, no cheese.
5. Working ahead in preparation for my Oregon getaway, 19 days and counting!

This is sweet.

2009-09-02T22:00:00.002-05:00

Pretty blue eyes and rugged facial hair! I think I've found another potential husband. Perhaps he's not married, like my other obsession, Scott Avett. :)

5 things:
1. Thinking about studying letterpress and bookarts.
2. I very much dislike doing laundry.
3. I very much love my friend Jaci(pants).
4. Today I was very lazy. Work. Napping. Reading. 1 Load of laundry. Blech.
5. Tomorrow I have to climb and yoga b/c today I was a pile.

I called it.

2009-08-31T17:15:00.002-05:00

In Spring 2006, I ventured to San Francisco on a traveling kick. I was young and interested in doing design work for one of my fave magazines: Readymade, A hipster do-it-yourself glossy made for the wannabe innovators. I called up the creative director, Maili Holliman, to set up a time to chat about designing for a sweet magazine. She was pretty cool. The following years I noticed a decline in the artistic creativity of the page layout in the publication. I even stopped buying it. I couldn't figure out what happened. Then I found out Meredith Corps bought them. I'd studied with Meredith (publisher of Better Homes and Gardens) during my college years. They're based in Des Moines, just 30 minutes south of Ames. When I heard they bought my fave magazine, I understood why the decline in visually stimulating design. I just read this article today. To sum up, it's just different, and I called it way back when. But while we're on the topic, my friend Glenda thinks I'm San Fran material. I have "SF written all over me." And as much as she loves me, she wants me to grow.

Backbone.

2009-08-30T19:04:00.014-05:00

Lately the drama has all but encompassed my life. I needed to get away. And fast. I wasn't scheduled to work Friday night at The Café this past week, a first in just about a year. To take full advantage of the free weekend evening, I also took time off from my day job and decided to go hiking at Backbone State Park, in northeast Iowa. I'd never been in the area and heard it was beautiful compared to the rest of the state. So off on my own I ventured, despite the pleas of my friends to take someone along for safety, I arose early and prepared for my day alone. It took three hours to get there. The drive was wonderful. I left Ames' gray, damp drama for sunlight and greenery to raise my poor spirits. Excitement building, music blaring, just me viewing the road and a beautiful blue sky with fluffy white clouds through the windshield of my little Honda Civic. Below are the winning photos of the day. Hiking in solitude, the quiet noises of nature, made me think of that philosophical riddle "If a tree falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound." Do things exist if no one perceives them? Does this drama btw me and my friend exist if he never comes forth to tell me what is wrong and otherwise acts normal around me? My perception is that things are fine, but through grapevines I hear otherwise.

Gimme S'more!

2009-08-27T16:11:00.000-05:00

My sister's wedding is coming up in just about a month, October 2nd. Exciting! I need to get outta Ames, please and fast! :) In preparation for the great day, I've been working diligently here in Iowa. In previous posts, you've seen her wedding "Save the Dates," wishing tree cards and centerpiece frames. Today, I post personalized candy bar wrappers. The couple will have a fire pit on the beach for guests to roast their own s'mores! What a great idea! I've designed a "Westward Bound!" wrapper to be glued around the Hershey's bars that will act as both dessert and a wedding favor. What do you think?

Lacey and Sheng, you get to get to help me glue all the wrappers. Yay! Don't worry, there will only be about 100, and at least you don't have to cut and trim all the wrappers. I will do that before we go to Oregon.

Wedding Lists

Wedding items collected
1. picture frames for each table (may need more)
2. 24 votive candle holders (may need more?)
3. chartreusey olive beads (me)
4. silk petals (me)
5. branches (Denver)
6. paper lanterns (may not use)

Wedding items needed
1. card basket (Lin)
2. chartreuse linens for each table (Lin)
3. chartreuse ribbon for vases/votives and card basket (me)
4. ???

Lin, I need a better idea of how many tables, shape, etc. Let me know when you have the final RSVP count. Love!

As loud as can be.

2009-08-22T23:00:00.000-05:00

I am making this mix,
Blaringly loud, as loud as can be,
I am drowning out the rest of the world,
Just for you I am making this mix,
I can hardly hear myself think,
Just for me I am making this mix,
Just for you and for me,
I am making this mix.

PS.
I bought these.
And this.

PS#2.
I was told I was enchanting at work tonight. I was telling her about the wood-grilled salmon and oven-roasted pork entree. :) Haha.

PS#3.
I wore my hair in pigtails tonight.

PS#4.
I can't wait till Fall, all-time favorite season. Snuggling and cuddling weather!