life observed by {kate}

day 2 "words"

2012-02-02T11:55:00.003-05:00

I've had this since I was little :)

(I'm doing a photo a day with this challenge)

day 1 "your view today"

2012-02-01T11:28:00.002-05:00

my dining & desk/work area

(I'm doing a photo a day with this challenge)

an idea and a plan

2012-01-31T22:57:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I get busy with the work part of photography and forget I really love it. And sometimes I forget I have a blog and that I should write something every now and then.

In thinking of how to improve upon my above shortcomings I decided I was going to do my own "photo a day" of anything that struck my fancy. I told my friend about it and she sent me THIS LINK. And I decided I might as well join in with them, rather than fly solo. Accountability is good. And ideas of what to shoot are good too.

So starting tomorrow, February 1st, I will be posting a photo a day. I'd love for you to follow along and even join in!

In other news - I've been pretending to know how to be a watercolor painter. It's such a fun and forgiving medium. :) Here are my first three creations. Go easy on me - I'm doing this for fun. ;)

thank you Australia

2012-01-25T13:50:00.000-05:00

I saw on the calendar that tomorrow is Australia Day. In honor of such I told Craig I thought we should watch Australia and eat something Australian (a shrimp on the barbie??). That conversation led to him mentioning that Bright Star is, in fact, in part an Australian film (other two parts being British & French). I couldn't resist starting my celebrating a day early. Thank you Australia - this movie is more divine every time I watch it.

image via here

"There is a holiness to the heart's affections - know you nothing of that?"

happy best year ever

2012-01-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

Today is Craig and I's first wedding anniversary. I am so very thankful that God sent this amazing fella my way. Here's to lots and lots more of these celebrations. :)

I love you babe!

curious

2012-01-21T13:11:00.002-05:00

"Around here, however, we don't look backwards very long. We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things, because we're curious...and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths." - Walt Disney

Hey Kate! Photography

2012-01-09T13:07:00.000-05:00

Hello friends!

It is with much joy and excitement I announce the start of my new photography venture:

https://www.facebook.com/heykatephotography

You can visit my facebook page for more info:
https://www.facebook.com/heykatephotography
(you don't have to have facebook to be able to see the page)

My good buddy Colleen will continue on with Pinwheel Photography - we're both very excited about this new direction and opportunity for both of us!

Stop by and say hi! As well - if you need any photography done in the future - give me a holler - I'd love to work with you!

Happy Monday!

what remains..

2012-01-04T13:06:00.001-05:00

We're not entirely sure - but we think maybe we didn't water our Christmas tree enough.. :p

Though it was a terrible mess we sure got a laugh out of it!

I want to work for this lady.

2011-12-28T21:25:00.000-05:00

For those of you who don't recognize her, let me introduce you to Nina Garcia. She's one of the judges on Project Runway as well as the fashion director for Marie Claire magazine.

She's classy and speaks her mind. And I just like her. :p I bought a wing charm like the one she's wearing a couple weeks ago. Fingers crossed I'm turning into her.

sweet things

2011-12-22T12:02:00.002-05:00

I came home last night to find the sweetest of tags on all my Christmas gifts. Oh the bliss of marriage. Today marks eleven months of such happiness!

P.S. The bottom photo shows my bland gift tags...his creativity definitely put me to shame..but I'm ok with that. :)

Rustic Christmas

2011-12-16T13:36:00.001-05:00

from "something's hiding in there"

Sometimes I like to pretend that I live in the mountains and am experiencing a rustic Christmas nestled in the snowy mountains. Our bedroom would look like that picture up above.

We'd use dishes that looked like this:

from Target

And unless company was over (well I guess it would depend on the company) I'd be wearing these:

from J.Crew

While Craig wore these (I have a feeling he's rolling his eyes at this point in the post! ha!):


from J.Crew

Being cozy is top notch.

from Country Living

who's your friend?

2011-12-02T10:22:00.001-05:00

I came across this interesting project on Etsy. One ambitious lady is meeting and taking pictures or every person she's friends with on Facebook. I was reading through the article and really loved the photograph of this lady. I imagine she spends her day wearing clothes made of fabulous textiles and peruses the local art galleries and walks with her dogs by the water.

She's pretty awesome.

if you're looking for a clever Christmas gift

2011-11-28T09:14:00.001-05:00

Do consider the shop Sadly Harmless on Etsy. Such clever illustrations!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T09:58:00.001-05:00

Anybody out there seen Holiday Inn? I've got the song that Bing writes on Thanksgiving stuck in my head - "I've Got Plenty to be Thankful For" - and boy I sure do!

pomegranate

2011-11-11T15:20:00.001-05:00

What a photogenic fruit.

a fall day at 170

2011-11-08T13:51:00.005-05:00

I love our home. And I love the brilliant colors of fall. Together they make for the coziest of times.

do I love you?

2011-10-29T07:00:00.001-04:00

"Do I love you, do I?
Doesn't one and one make two?
Do I love you, do I?
Does July need a sky of blue?
Would I miss you, would I?
If you ever should go away?
If the sun should desert the day,
What would life be?
Will I leave you, never?
Could the ocean leave the shore?
Will I worship you forever?
Isn't heaven forever more? (for evermore?)
Do I love you, do I?
Oh, my dear, it's so easy to see,
Don't you know I do?
Don't I show you I do,
Just as you love me."

{"Do I Love You" by the romantic & brilliant Cole Porter}

Craig and I hit the 9 month mark last weekend. Marriage is the dearest blessing. I love him more now than I ever thought I could 9 months ago!

what the cuteness!?

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000-04:00

From this adorable Etsy shop

I'm ready to have a baby girl tomorrow so I can put theses darling Mary Jane's on her. No "baby itch" yet..but when the time comes - these shoes are too cute to handle!

handy hubby

2011-10-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

Having a creative and handy husband is an amazing blessing. We needed a shelf. So he made one. And it's marvelous. :)

parachute.

2011-10-26T13:54:00.001-04:00

I'm a ~~little~~ lot crazy about this song. I forget about it for a while and then hear it again and decide to only listen to this song on repeat for at least an entire day.So here you go - 2 different videos..I don't exactly get the second one..but Ingrid is darling as always!

magnets.

2011-10-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

For my birthday last month, my sweet little sister in law, Hope gave me magnets as a gift...and even showed me an alternate use for them. HA!

mac grill. you rock.

2011-10-25T11:47:00.000-04:00

Craig and I had dinner at Macaroni Grill a few weeks ago. Now Macaroni Grill is already hands down one of my favorite restaurants. I know it's a chain and so it's not a very unique one to love. But I do and sometimes you can't choose love. :p

As if the delicious rosemary bread and oil wasn't enough, they now have a really classy way of bringing you water - as you see pictured above. Small glasses and your own water canister/pitcher/whateveryou'dcallit. I was smitten with the quaintness.

To top off my already existing devotion to this establishment - they played not 1 or 2 of my favorite artists - but SEVEN! That's right - seven. And that was only in the hour we were there - I can't even imagine how many more would have played had we stayed longer. I'm convinced they chose the station called "Katie" just to make me happy.

Sigh. That's how dining out is meant to be.

{In case you're wondering - here are the artists they played: Jamie Cullum, Mat Kearney, Ingrid Michaelson, Sarah Bareilles, Michael Buble, Brandi Carlile and Norah Jones.}

mugs

2011-10-11T09:57:00.001-04:00

We have a whole bunch of mugs. I love how they look on this shelf. :)

ballerinas

2011-10-06T07:00:00.000-04:00


image from the ballerina project (#6)

I know I've posted about the Ballerina Project before. But I can't get over how beautiful the images are. Oh to be a beautiful ballerina!

I would very much like to photograph ballerinas myself..I'll add that to my list of goals! It'll be number 1, I don't have such a list. But I should.

favorite images taken over the past few months

2011-10-05T11:51:00.000-04:00

Rediscovering my love for sherbert.

Lovely flowers, lovely light, lovely vase!

I do adore our bedroom curtains.

Craig drew this little guy years ago. He dreamed of being a cartoonist and I still think he'd make a darn good one.

I really got excited when I saw this sign go up.

Love of my life :)

One of my favorite kids in the world. My nephew Cole who just turned 3!

today.

2011-09-12T07:34:00.003-04:00

I'm 27 today. And completely taking the advice of this print.
Have a great Monday everyone!
I'm off to have breakfast with one of my dearest friends! :)

thrift it kid.

2011-09-11T00:36:00.000-04:00

I have had some seriously blessed thrifting trips lately. I don't think it's "over-spiritualizing" to say so either. God is our provider and lately I've been finding just what I was looking for. He really does care for all things, great and small. :)

I'd been needing a frame for my awesome Nan Lawson print and BAM! This red guy fit the bill perfectly. The yellow pot - my favorite way to store things in a colorful and easily accessed way. This one has extra pieces and parts for my camera.

These 2 boxes couldn't be any more perfect. I needed something to store my paint supplies and something to store my humble supply of sewing materials. DOUBLE BAM! It's like they were just sitting there, waiting for me.

More wonderful colorful pots for storage! I bought the one on the right on a separate trip and found 2 more that were slightly smaller this week. Perfecto!!

I also needed a frame for my OTHER awesome Nan Lawson print. (Yep, I'm kinda crazy about her illustrations.) I really super adore this print. This gal is just the sort of photographer I want to look like. :) And she sure looks cute in that white frame.

I saw this when I was out on Thursday and kinda liked it and then realized it might be a diaper bag. So I put it down. Then I got home, kept thinking about it and what an awesome camera gear/laptop bag it would be. So I went back on Friday and it was still there waiting for me. BAM again!! (Last time I'll say bam. Promise.)

I've been looking for a handy jar to store "on the go" snacks. And this darling little daffodil jar was the very sort of thing I had in mind. Actually, I'd imagined something quite different - but for some reason positively fell in love with the retro feel of the flowers.
Oh and another milk glass vase. I adore milk glass. My mom laughs at the fact I think it's so awesome - she grew up with that stuff being all over and not at all something exciting! Oh mother dear. :)

And last but not least - a "keep your tortillas warm" containment device. Hurray!! What a find!! And I didn't even know I needed one until I saw it sitting on the shelf! No more cold tortilla shells for this kid!

If you don't thrift..oh how I wish you would.

P.S. Yes. That last line is a movie quote.

happy 9 years!

2011-09-07T09:46:00.001-04:00

My sister and brother in law are celebrating 9 years of wedded bliss today. Happy Anniversary love birds!

I really do.

2011-08-16T15:39:00.004-04:00

Sometimes I think I talk about fonts too much. But then I realize that since fonts are awesome they SHOULD be talked about all the time. Which makes me feel good about talking about fonts all the time.
To show my love I just put this together:

I'm thinking of selling it in my etsy shop...so once I do a test print run and make sure all works well you can purchase it there. Because you know you want to. I'm considering doing a whole series and calling it "Font Nerds Unite". Font folks will be crawling out of the woodwork, I'm sure of it!

learning and reading and loving it.

2011-08-09T12:05:00.002-04:00

So far I've been spending lots of time reading and learning new things about blogging and photography. A couple really great blogs/resources I just came across are:
Besotted Brand Blog
{she's got a bunch of free downloads of brushes - and to know how to use them - head over to the below blog!)
Rhonna Designs
{she's got lots of useful info on how to use brushes in photoshop. Before this morning I didn't even know what a brush was!}

In non blog or photography book news, I've also been reading this book and this book - both of which I would recommend!

Have a lovely summer day!

clean.clean.clean.

2011-08-05T12:49:00.003-04:00

I've spent the first half of the day cleaning. I guess my life just went down the drain with the dish bubbles.

So long weekend cleaning! My weekdays have taken over that gig. :)

Honestly - how glorious is a clean house, er apartment? I feel unstoppable.

I'm off to conquer the world. Such things are possible when you operate from a clean home base.

is this thing on?

2011-08-03T23:03:00.009-04:00

Hello! It's been awhile..like 3 weeks..but I have good reasons! Since I was last here I quit my job in "Corporate America" and along with my siblings, threw a surprise party for my mom.

The quitting the job part is the big change - but after much conversation and prayer - Craig and I decided it was time. And I'm pretty darn thrilled about the whole thing. Well, I will be when reality hits. :p Right now I just feel like I'm on vacation!
I've now fallen into a new category in life - the stay at home wife. (nope, no babies on the way yet!) Along with caring for my home and my hot husband I'll be working on photography and whatever other creative venture comes along.
So. For the time being - this is where and what I'll be working on.
Etsy Shop
Photography Biz

Do stop by!

Really rad stuff

2011-07-14T10:28:00.004-04:00

Through the awesome blogs I read (check em out over to your left) I've come across some really cool photography and illustrations projects.

Ballerinas:

http://ballerinaproject.com/

Cleveland love:

http://juliaincleveland.tumblr.com/

Love, love, love.
Thank you Lord for filling your children with such creativity! It's a wonder and a joy to behold!

summer joy

2011-07-08T11:13:00.004-04:00

Watermelon is honestly one of the BEST joys of summer.

Another super joy of summer is one of your best friends getting married.
Hurrah for Bryan and Amanda!!!
Yep, it'll be a busy, amazing weekend and I hope to return with some splendid photos!
Happy weekend!!!

honeytree photography

2011-07-07T09:40:00.007-04:00

I came across the shop for Honeytree Photography on Etsy and I'm in looovvveee with the photos. They're beautiful!

when your friends have little ones..

2011-07-07T09:38:00.001-04:00

Sometimes you start really liking the snacks they give their kids.
And you buy them for yourself.
These aren't just for kids, right!?

pretty packaging

2011-07-06T10:58:00.003-04:00

I asked one of the gals in my department to get me a planner. Because she's a goof she even decorated it for me. Creative, yes?
Since I can now be organized maybe I'll finally get some work done! High time, I've only been here 4 and a half years.

waffles & thrifting & the movies

2011-07-05T16:36:00.009-04:00

Craig and I decided to kick back and just enjoy being off of work on the 4th. I guess you could say it was our way of celebrating our freedom. :)
(Family - we promise we still love you!)
It was such a lovely day! Waffles, thrifting, napping, watercolor painting and going to the movies.
We found an amazing yellow suitcase that will be a start to Pinwheel's props and some great shoes and clothes. Plus some legit poker chips. I think we'll need to plan a poker night in the near future!

The next four shots are of Wally Waffle - which is becoming one of our favorite Akron spots. It's adorable and the food is d-licious.

No joke, this was a book at one of the thrift stores we stopped at. The Joy of Microwaving? What have we come to, America!?

We went to see Super8..and these kids were in the lobby. SO excited for July 15th!

Marrying your best friend really is all it's cracked up to be. :)

DONE!!!

2011-06-30T13:16:00.009-04:00

image via here

I finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - so I can now watch part 1 AND see part 2 in THEATERS!! Accomplishing goals is my favorite. Except I don't think I ever stated on here it was a goal. Well, it was. And I showed that goal who's boss.

If you haven't read the series (and you're over the age of say, 13 and have proper judgment and reasoning skills) you obviously MUST read them. I've never been so completely satisfied with a story. Well written with a complex plot that was completely amazing from start to finish!

Oh and I've told Craig that while Emma Watson is dazzlingly beautiful and hew new look is stunning (not to be confused with a stunning spell. nerd, what?)..I'll always think of and prefer her as Hermione. :) Just look at her - she's darling!

image via here

image via here

I want them to be best friends forever.

just whistle while you work

2011-06-29T10:09:00.003-04:00

That's what I'm reminding myself to do - whistle while I work. Well really, this little bird is reminding me of the good practice of whistling. Seriously - try to whistle and still be in a bad mood.

Plus - whistling is like singing. And singing shows a joyful heart.

"My lips will shout for joy,
when I sing praises to you;
my soul also, which you have redeemed."
{Psalm 71:23}

Yep, I have reasons to whistle and sing. :)

(the little bird buddy came from here)

boy do I ever.

2011-06-29T07:30:00.001-04:00

I found this cute customizable template awhile ago. Shamefully I can't remember where. (So if you know where it's from leave a comment!) I used it as the tag for Craig's V-Day gift last year. It makes me smile and feel warm and fuzzy inside.

I've always loved this line :)

2011-06-28T11:48:00.002-04:00

Sometimes the promise of a fresh start really is comforting.
I think an Anne marathon is in order soon - those movies are happy therapy. :)

oh family.

2011-06-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

color!

2011-06-21T10:08:00.005-04:00

image via here

image via here

Happy Tuesday Folks!

I {heart} Pinterest!

2011-06-20T13:59:00.004-04:00

I know I'm probably behind the times..but I've recently discovered Pinterest. And I adore it. Here are some photos/prints I've found over the last week that I positively adore! Pinterest is now my inspiration mecca. Mecca, I say.

Source: marcusdesigninc.blogspot.com via Katie on Pinterest

Source: lindseymichellephotographyblog.com via Katie on Pinterest

Source: lindseymichellephotographyblog.com via Susanna on Pinterest

Source: lindseymichellephotographyblog.com via Joey Number on Pinterest

Source: lindseymichellephotographyblog.com via Katie on Pinterest

Source: pretty-zoo.com via Katie on Pinterest

Pinwheel Photography

2011-06-09T07:30:00.002-04:00

Image via here

Somehow I never mentioned on here that the website for my photography biz is LIVE!!! My friend Colleen and I have started Pinwheel Photography and would love for you to give the website a gander!
You can visit it here: Pinwheel Photography
Hope you enjoy!

let's spin around in a field of flowers!!

2011-06-08T10:21:00.004-04:00

I'd like to wear this dress. And do what I mentioned in the title of this post.

burned biscuits.

2011-06-01T12:58:00.011-04:00

Hope everyone had a great Memorial Day weekend! I spent mine at a conference with my church in Orlando, FL - and had a fantastic time! Below is quick shot of where we stayed - it was LOVELY.

In other news - my mom just emailed me this story..and while I usually roll my eyes at email forwards - I thought this one was really sweet. :)

'When I was a kid, my Mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every now and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made breakfast after a long, hard day at work. On that evening so long ago, my Mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage and extremely burned biscuits in front of my dad. I remember waiting to see if anyone noticed! Yet all my dad did was reach for his biscuit, smile at my Mom and ask me how my day was at school. I don't remember what I told him that night, but I do remember watching him smear butter and jelly on that ugly burned biscuit. He ate every bite of that thing...never made a face nor uttered a word about it!

When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my Mom apologize to my dad for burning the biscuits. And I'll never forget what he said: "Honey, I love burned biscuits every now and then."

Later that night, I went to kiss Daddy good night and I asked him if he really liked his biscuits burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said, "Your Momma put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And besides - a little burned biscuit never hurt anyone!"

As I've grown older, I've thought about that many times. Life is full of imperfect things and imperfect people. I'm not the best at hardly anything, and I forget birthdays and anniversaries just like everyone else. But what I've learned over the years is that learning to accept each others faults - and choosing to celebrate each others differences - is one of the most important keys to creating a healthy, growing, and lasting relationship. Especially with GOD!

"Life without God is like an un-sharpened pencil - it has no point." '

sweet memories

2011-05-20T09:17:00.005-04:00

My dear Aunt Donna sent me this image this morning. She took it at our wedding and I love it. Ah the sweet memories :)
Say it with me - T.G.I.F.
For reals.
I've got a weather permitting photoshoot tomorrow, a little lady's 1st birthday party, family time (one of my sisters is coming in town!) and a bridal shower for one of my dearest friends. I'll try to do well at documenting the sweet moments. :)
HAPPY FRIDAY KIDS!!

big things are a'comin!

2011-05-12T09:02:00.000-04:00

Hello friends! I am personally delighted about the following things:

-my new headband is not only holding my hair back but also staying on my head!
Normally they slide right off - so this one is a score!
They aren't anything new - but they are the wider version of the Goody Stay Fit headband.
-Colleen and I's photography website is just a few days away from launching. This is the really big, exciting thing! (The headbands were just a tricky side-track.)
Get ready to meet (and hopefully love) Pinwheel Photography! We're crazy pants excited! I'll be sure to post the link once everything is up and running!
-I decided this morning to change up how I was doing my morning devotions with the Lord. I've switched back to reading through the Bible in a year with this book by D.A. Carson. This girl needs structure and a plan!
-It's Thursday. And tomorrow is Friday. And then it's the weekend :) I know I shouldn't live for my weekends - but let's be honest. Right now I really do.

Enjoy your morning. And if you need it - have that second cup of coffee.

I love my sisters - part {five}

2011-05-09T07:30:00.001-04:00

Melissa is my oldest and coolest sister (sorry sisters, you know you agree with me).

(with the husband man, Jeff)

I remember being little and loving going to her volleyball games, following her and her friends around when they came over and the awesome t-shirt she made me one year for Christmas. I wore that t-shirt till it was honestly getting thread-bare. (Meliss - I'm not even sure if you knew that? Or even remember the shirt? ha!)

I also remember missing her lots growing up. She left for college in the far, far South when I was about 8. Visits were a blast - especially when Jeff, her now husband, took us on late night motorcycle rides around the block! But I know I still miss her and wish Atlanta wasn't quite so far away!

I've been told more and more the older I get that I remind people of Melissa. Which I think means I'm cool, so I'm pretty excited about that! But honestly - Melissa is a strong woman who I admire and count blessed to call sister.

Fun facts about Melissa:
1. She and Jeff have opened a pretty awesome sauce gym
(check em out: http://www.btbfitness.com/).
2. She's got a whole lot of knowledge on foods that are actually good for you.
(and will gladly tell you all about the Paleo Diet..especially while you're eating Peanut Butter M&M's. ;p)
3. She almost always has a pair of sunglasses on her head.
4. She has gorgeous skin that I'm jealous of.
5. She loves Gap about as much as I do.
6. PLUS she's just a whole lot of fun to be around.

I think we can all agree she's pretty fabulous. I love you Melissa!

let's make some water into color!

2011-05-06T15:44:00.003-04:00

I just ordered this book. And I'm pretty stinkin excited to learn how to paint with watercolors. I tried my hand at it VERY briefly in the past - but I've recently been inspired to give it another go. Wish me luck!

Here are a couple great shops on Etsy that do watercolors - enjoy!
Geninne's Art Store
(I follow her blog too and sometimes I don't like her at all because she has such a cool life. Jealousy overtakes me.)
Print Maker Jen
(I just found this one today..I like it!)

fresh salsa!

2011-05-06T14:28:00.001-04:00

This is a salsa my family makes OFTEN. No we didn't come up with it - but we're willing to call it the most delicious. So in case you ever wondered what the most delicious salsa tastes like - now you can make it and find out. You're welcome. HAPPY WEEKEND!

laugh. it's good for you :)

2011-05-04T10:39:00.002-04:00

Tam - thanks for telling me about this - hilarious! :)

and I have always preferred wildflowers!

2011-05-04T07:30:00.001-04:00

image via here

God really does do the BEST work.

dear husband..

2011-05-03T07:30:00.000-04:00

image via here
love,
your wife

here, here!

2011-05-02T09:39:00.002-04:00

image via here

And have longer weekends.
Yawn.
Happy Monday!

Yep. I am loved well :)

2011-04-28T11:00:00.005-04:00

image via here

I really like getting to tell anyone who reads this blog how greatly blessed I am to have married the man I did. I especially like to write about him on here because I know he'll see it too. :)
I was sick a couple days ago. My throat hurt, my body ached and I just felt exhausted. Craig took such good care of me - coming home at lunch and seeing how I was and staying home from hanging out with a friend so he could keep me company. He stopped after work to get me soup and Gatorade, he did all the dishes, brought me tea and toast and ran out to get me a KFC chicken bowl for dinner when I mentioned it sounded delicious. AND he didn't even complain when my tossing and turning and snoring kept him from having a solid nights sleep. :p

I am so very blessed! And I do so love that husband man :)

So Mom - rest assured - I'm still being well taken care of while I'm sick. :)

feeling crafty

2011-04-20T08:48:00.004-04:00

I have a very strong urge to spend some time being creative. Soo..I think my Etsy shop will finally be getting some attention. In the vein of thinking crafty - I thought these prints from Etsy were cute. :)

via here

via here

my nephews.

2011-04-16T13:47:00.002-04:00

This picture never fails to make me smile. :)

Jane Eyre {Observed}

2011-04-15T08:49:00.006-04:00

Jane Eyre is one of my favorite books. The story is dark, intense and romantically tragic. I've seen a few of the movies and haven't really loved any of them. I never felt like the portrayal of Jane and Rochester captured the emotion that I felt when reading the story.

This latest version with Mia Wasikowska & Michael Fassbender however was different. I've read reviews criticizing the way they laid out the time line of the story - flashing forward and backward throughout. But I don't care about that - all I care about is the fact that the characters were captured. Mia played the Jane I've always imagined in my head.
Michael looked and behaved like Rochester.

And who knew Jamie Bell could do so well in a period film? I guess that's how you roll when you're British. Either way, Craig and I were definitely impressed.

I might be biased because I love the story and so usually enjoy watching adaptations of it. But I truly did enjoy this film..and one more thing - the musical score? Violin magic compliments of composer Dario Marianelli. Same fella who did the score for the 2005 Pride & Prejudice. Hence why it's lovely.

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!

feeling the flow..

2011-03-22T08:03:00.002-04:00

"Feel the flow of your dance and know you are not running for some future reward - the reward is now!" Fred Rohe, The Zen of Running

Ok, ok - I know this quote is a little zany - feeling the flow of your dance and stuff. But I agree with the last part - the reward is now! I ran outside last night for the first time in months and it felt fantastic! So yep, my reward is NOW. :p
Have a great Tuesday.
And if it's nice where you live - go for a run!

rats.

2011-03-21T16:16:00.002-04:00

My bracket is in absolute shambles.

I know nothing about college basketball but still find it fun to participate in the work pool every year. And even though I know I know nothing, somehow I still feel sad that Belmont didn't have the Cinderella year I'd felt sure was going to happen. Next year Belmont, next year.

P.S. Does anyone know where Belmont even is?

dear faces

2011-03-10T21:31:00.010-05:00

These are some faces I love.
I'm learning my new camera and poor Craig is constantly my practice subject. But he's my favorite subject..and I think he's starting to get used to it.

Poor guy wasn't feeling great..but I love how brooding he looks in this photo.
Plus the light on his face and the harsh shadows..I like it.

My zany sister Annie :)

Sweet baby Jude

My dear kindred spirit Amanda

My sleepy husband :)

I practiced editing with photoshop on all of the images - except this one. I snapped it quick and it's blurry. But it makes my heart happy, just how it is. :)

dear tam - this is not a kitchen.

2011-03-09T08:00:00.002-05:00

But rather a glorious bathroom! Wouldn't you agree?

And in case you're wondering about the title of this post, my sister has brought to my attention the fact I have a kitchen obsession. She is quite right.

image source

one more thing..a kitchen! I'm sneaky, right!?

image source

It's so marvelous, I simply couldn't NOT post this. And yes - that grammar was spot on. Right, Mom?

windows for {reading}

2011-03-08T11:04:00.003-05:00

image source

Our apartment has a window seat that is just ASKING to become a cozy reading nook. It's not very deep..but I think I'll be able to fit my fanny and make it work. :)
I'm dreaming of early morning moments with my Bible, journal, coffee and a warm breeze. Summer - please, please come.

do the happy dance!

2011-03-04T08:30:00.002-05:00

It's Friday. This week was long and I was stir crazy and antsy. Poor Craig had to hear my whining "I don't wanta go to work!" every day. He's a saint and I love him for his patience.

BIG NEWS - my Canon Rebel has been upgraded..to a 5D..it's used - but still..it'll make a difference in my photographic life. I hope to spend some time this weekend getting to know my new baby - if I photograph anything fantastic I promise to post. :)

Happy weekend my friends! Do the happy dance! (Whatever that is. But maybe it's what Colin Firth was wanting to do during his acceptance speech??)

Rationalizing Chocolate

2011-03-02T09:00:00.001-05:00

I'm reading the Harry Potter books. I'm reading them now because I like to hit the tail end of crazes - cause I don't like to look crazy. (Like the kind of crazy person who would read all the Twilight books and see the movies at midnight as they came out. So not me.)

But let me continue to the point of this post.
And that is this: I have learned that when Harry is learning to ward off the 'dementors' (evil, foul creatures who feed off of the happiness of people. They're awful.) he gets exhausted. And do you know what helps him regain his life and energy? CHOCOLATE! It's true. So since I daily have to fight evil, happiness sucking things - I too need lots of chocolate.
Rationalization complete.

Oh and while we're on the topic - I had no idea J.K. Rowling was so adorable!image source

everybody's talking about it.

2011-03-01T20:11:00.010-05:00

So I might as well too...THE OSCARS!
Yes, I know I'm a few days late - but Craig and I only just watched it.
Here are my thoughts from the evening:
-Christian Bale is British!? I'm not kidding, I had no idea. To be honest, I'm still shocked.
-Cate Blanchett looked legendary. Her dress, the simplicity of her hair, how classy she spoke and carried herself!? I couldn't get over it - I wanted to stare at her the whole night..I know that might be weird.

-Anne and James were awkward. When Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman presented I wished they were hosting the whole night. (And if Nicole hasn't already done so, I'd like her to do a voice in an animated film. I think she'd rock.)
-I need to finish reading the Harry Potter books. I panicked every time they showed flashes of the Deathly Hallows movie.
-The song about Jacob not owning a shirt was HILARIOUS.
-Florence sounded awesome - and according to Craig has great mic technique.
-I liked Gwyneth better when she didn't sing country.
-I've never heard Celine Dion give a bad performance. And Craig didn't even know what she looked like..what the!?
-The bottom of Hilary Swank's dress gave me the creeps. I like her a whole lot though so I've chosen to overlook it.
-Eli Wallach is quite possibly the cutest old man alive. If you don't believe me, watch The Holiday.
-Sandra was classy.
-I very much so want to see The King's Speech.

I might have written this list while watching it - which explains it's length.
Good show folks. Good show.

I like to stitch.

2011-03-01T07:17:00.003-05:00

I made this for a friend last week. I hadn't stitched something in forever and must say - really enjoyed making it. I found the cute bird on Geninne's blog. Now I'm deciding what I'll stitch next..

a card game has never looked so cute.

2011-02-23T14:19:00.005-05:00

How cute are these playing cards!? I want to get them and play rummy. But not slap jack - because if the cute little frog got bent it'd be a tragedy indeed!
They're from Nimbus Factory - but I'm sorry to say currently sold out. :(
Still fun to look at!

all is not lost...

2011-02-21T10:48:00.006-05:00

Or is it?

Craig and I are making our way through watching all of the seasons of Lost. He already has, so I'm the new kid here. I wasn't sure how I felt about it during the first season. I was stressed, confused and none of my questions were getting answered! (I hear this is a common complaint.) But we're now almost done with season 2 and I'm hooked. And lost. And all about making lame puns about being 'lost'.
But seriously.
This show has so many clever twists it's nearly unbearable.

{love, love, love}

2011-02-14T09:45:00.001-05:00

image from etsy

Happy Hearts Day!

unsure...

2011-02-10T12:05:00.011-05:00

I haven't decided if these photos:
A. Refresh my soul.
B. Fill me with jealousy because I don't live in Italy.
C. Make me ready to drop everything and change it so I DO live in Italy.
D. Prompt me to convince Craig that option C is a good idea.
E. Allow me to appreciate the beauty and remember
I love being by my dear family and friends.
F. Make me realize that A-E are pretty good descriptors of the emotional journey that just went through my head upon finding these photographs. :)

From here, here, here, here, here on flickr
OR if you'd like to go straight to the photostream - click HERE

already feeling the blessing of marriage..

2011-02-09T09:19:00.006-05:00

Last night I was in an awful mood.
you can visit the grumpy owl here

Thanks to that special time of the month (I know it's lame to blame..but honestly, my emotions are not normal during that time!) I was irritable, sensitive and just plain grumpy.

Craig was patient and forgiving. He had to forgive me a bunch of times too because every time I'd apologize for being a jerk I'd be fine for 5 minutes..then return to my grumpy, meanie state!

We went grocery shopping and upon returning home Craig sent me to put on sweatpants and watch Meet Me in St. Louis while he put away groceries and made us dinner.

Why am I writing about all of this on my blog? Because I think this is a small way I can honor him for already being the amazing husband he is and caring for me so well. I want everyone to know the kind of guy he is when faced with a moody girl. Cause in that moment he continues to be a really good guy.

So babe - thanks again. I love you and am so grateful for you! :)

I'll Sing You a Song

2011-02-08T11:13:00.003-05:00

print from Etsy

I love when Craig sings to me. :)

{marriage mugs}

2011-02-04T19:41:00.003-05:00

Back in September it was my birthday. And my pal Amanda gave me a gift of matching mugs. My friends buy me lots of mugs - because, well - I do so love a good mug.
These weren't just an ordinary pair of mugs. No. These were much more. In her card (that was actually a wedding card..she wanted to be the first to give me one!) she explained that these were "marriage mugs."
So Amanda - this is for you. Craig and I are married. And we are using our mugs.
:)

Happy weekend my friends!

the tiniest of glimpes..

2011-02-03T11:30:00.002-05:00

Yep. It's official. We're married. And we couldn't be happier. :)
I'm planning on giving visual glimpses of the day for the next few years (I mean, weeks..maybe months..)....so stick with me kids - there are some pretty rockin photos a'comin! :)

in 8 days...

2011-01-14T09:09:00.003-05:00

Craig and I will be tying the knot.
Today we're getting our marriage license.
Friends and family are going to start arriving next week.
In a little over a week we'll be on our honeymoon, our first vacation together.
We're about to be husband and wife.

How GREATLY God has blessed us!
I don't remember ever being this excited for something. My stomach feels jumpy all the time, my brain is getting nearly impossible to focus and I'm a smiling, giddy kid!

Oh how I love him. :)
I'll be back to blogging after the wedding - as Mrs. Katie Tumino! :)

ok, she's right..

2011-01-05T10:09:00.002-05:00

My sister says I have a kitchen obsession. It's true. I LOVE kitchens.
Isn't this one quaint and cozy and divine?

And the same kitchen with different lighting, which completely changes the color of the cabinets.

Images from Design Sponge

{2010} observed by kate

2010-12-31T09:22:00.003-05:00

It's New Years Eve. And I figured rather than resist the trend - I'm going to talk about 2010 and what a great year it was. So here's my list of some favorite moments and happenings of 2010. They're what I'm extra grateful for. :)

1. June 12th when Craig proposed. It was surreal and amazing and I'll remember that moment for the rest of my life.
2. The weeks that Craig and I were painting and working on the apartment with friends and siblings. We were so blessed by friends and family willing to help us. :)
3. My friend Natalie calling me to tell me she was engaged.
4. A conversation in May with some of my best friends. It showed me that no matter what we go through - we're gonna be friends.
5. Running my first half marathon with my dear friend Sharon. I felt like crying every time I passed my sister, brother in law and nephew cheering. Their support meant the world to me.
6. Laughing with Colleen, Jodi and Sharon at Next about the drive through worker at McDonald's - "It's got like a butter sauce.."
7. Road trips with Craig - Next in Baltimore, Cook's Forest in Pennsylvania, Columbus to see Muse..
8. Having the first of many meetings with Colleen for Pinwheel Photography.
9. Visiting my friend Amanda the day after becoming engaged and having her burst into tears of excitement when she actually saw the ring.
10. Having the honor of being in Sarah and Jay's wedding. It was a blast!
11. Running the Akron marathon relay with 4 awesome ladies.
12. Watching my little sister run her first half marathon.
13. My siblings. They aren't an exact moment - but they're what makes my life so sweet.
14. Craig handing me my key for our first apartment.
15. Celebrating with Aaron and Shelah and so many other couples at their weddings.
16. Finding awesome new blogs that inspire me, help me improve my own blog and get my creative juices flowing.

I know there are so many more things I should list. But that's a start in getting my thankful muscles flexed.
Here's to 2011..and a wedding in January :)

It's almost here..

2010-12-20T09:23:00.012-05:00

Christmas is 5 days away! Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! I realize that last week I was kinda sparse on my photo posting. I'm just full of broken promises on this blog. Lame of me, yes. So to distract you - let's talk about Christmas music! Here are my top favorites that are listened to excessively each Christmas:

For whatever reason this has been one of my favorite Christmas albums since I was like 12. I never listen to 4 Him otherwise - but this album? Favorite.

Um, it's Harry. Need I say more?

"So Mary trusted God, more than her eyes could see." Second track on the album - her son is reading parts of the Christmas story. I get chills just thinking about it.

These girls are pretty awesome sauce. And their Christmas album is no exception. Especially the song Hallelujah (Light Has Come). A-mazing.

His latest album may have made me question my love for him..but this? Glorious.

Don't make fun. Their Christmas music is super.

Most magical album ever. I listen to this all year round.

It's just good. Trust me.

Plus throw in a bunch of instrumental albums my family listens to each year, a couple more Harry Connick, Jr. Christmas albums, a few NSync songs (true), Mariah Carey (seriously - All I Want for Christmas is You is one of my all-time favorite songs..I used to have dance parties to that song with the kids I babysat. Talk about FUN!)..and probably more that I'm forgetting.
I feel like I have to really soak up the Christmas music I love this week..I've created a wonderful playlist on Grooveshark.com to get started on that!
Hope it's a great start to your week..and that you remember why we celebrate.
Thank you Lord for sending your Son - LIGHT HAS COME!

um..wasn't this TOMS idea?

2010-12-16T09:59:00.006-05:00

Payless Shoes is kicking off a new project that looks suspiciously the same as TOMS whole mission. You buy a pair, they donate a pair to a child in need. I love TOMS and the idea behind it. SO, this is why I think I might not mind that they're "copying":
-kids are gonna get shoes that need them. I support that.
-they're more affordable than TOMS.
-they're working with World Vision. I support that too.

What do you think? Awesome? Not awesome? Not gonna lie - I'm kinda loving this pair...

tea towels

2010-12-16T08:55:00.008-05:00

I love tea towels. I'm not even sure if I'd use them - I'd just hang them. Here are some cuties from Etsy.

Falling Flowers Linen Tea Towel

Hollyhock Tea Towel

Hand Block Printed Tea Towel

Animals Amassed Tea Towel

P.S. I'll keep posting photographs later - but enjoy the towels for now :)

Ivory Family Photos

2010-12-15T10:56:00.000-05:00

A little over a month ago I spent some time with my friend Lindsey and her cutie patootie family. You may remember Lindsey and Jon's prego shoot from spring. Little Miss Parker is here and just adds to the adorable-ness. :) I had planned on just posting a few..but apparently I have a bunch of favorites!

Thanksgiving in Portraits

2010-12-14T08:00:00.001-05:00

I love my family :)

the best part..

2010-12-13T08:00:00.003-05:00

of a nice camera is snagging some winners when visiting your friends. No posing, no plans - just capturing their babies being babies. CUTE babies. Meet the little babes I've spent some time with as of late:

- Miss Naomi -

- Miss Sienna -
Aren't they dolls!?
Hope everyone has a great start to their week :)

P.S. This is going to be a catch up week for posting recent pictures I've taken. Get excited.

yes, it's an obsession.

2010-12-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

I went on ModCloth today. What greeted me, but THIS little darling!

I love cardigans. Simply can't get enough of them! But with options like these, can you blame me?

Fall Flowers Cardigan

Hit the Hot Spots Cardigan

Crafting All Day Cardigan

I could keep going..instead I'll just advise you to visit ModCloth :)

hello Cleveland!

2010-12-09T12:10:00.008-05:00

I didn't even know what Big Cartel was till JUST NOW.
(psst - Linds thanks for mentioning it!)
And it rocks. Especially this shop that's dedicated to loving Cleveland.
They're awesome.

C.L.E. Clothing

cabin wear?

2010-12-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

image by photographer Chris Blott, managed by Sarah Kaye

Doesn't this look like a cozy cabin to get holed up in for a wintery weekend? Well I guess you can't see much of it - but my imagination has completed the room for me.

I'd probably opt for sweat pants over so darling an outfit. I know, I know - me choosing comfort over fashion will shock MANY. ;)

I love my sisters - part {four}

2010-12-08T08:00:00.001-05:00

(picture is from a recent photo shoot of Laura and Mr. D by Erin Drago - borrowed, cause it rocks.)

It was recently brought to my attention that I never finished my "I love my sisters" posts. Yes, it was brought to my attention by the 2 sisters I have yet to proclaim my love for. How could I neglect them so!? No more of that - commence with sister #4!

Meet Laura. Laura is my older sister, second oldest in the line up of 6 girls. Her and I are often confused as the same person - as we're about the same height, have dark brown hair and BIG eyes. But then again - that explains most of my sisters! :) I think we'd both be quick to acknowledge that we're very different from one another. But growing up together has taught us a lot. We've learned that being sisters is important and that no matter what it's a bond that will always keep us together.

Fun facts about Laura:
1. She's a teacher. And she actually loves to teach (she's got some lucky students!). She moved to South Carolina for a job and while it's not fun being far away - she's dedicated to working hard and impacting the lives of her students. They'll probably make a movie about her someday.
2. She LOVES horses. In particular her horse - Demetrias. (he's the horse in the picture. clearly.) Demetrias has had significant trouble with his eyes and as such has to trust Laura a whole lot to do certain things. She's taken care of him and loved him through the whole thing.
3. Laura reads likes most people breathe air. Corny analogy? Ok, fine, yes. But seriously - she reads A LOT! This illustration is posted cause I think she'll enjoy it :)
image can become your very own via etsy!

4. I'm getting married next month. But up until this point in my life Laura was always the protective sister - ready to beat down any boy who wasn't nice to me. It's pretty great knowing somebody is always in your corner.

I love you Laura! Thanks for always being willing to love and appreciate who I am. :)

am I the only person who finds this creepy and disurbing?

2010-12-07T09:46:00.002-05:00

If anyone finds this interesting and MUST have it - you can buy it at Bed Bath and Beyond. Why you would want to though is quite beyond me. Craig, please don't buy it.
Love,
Katie

ruffles on the go.

2010-12-07T08:00:00.001-05:00

image by photographer Tom Corbett, managed by Sarah Kaye

I'm hoping to soon walk around Akron with Craig. Dressed in a fabulous skirt like this of course!
Maybe I'll wait till Spring..

I have decided something.

2010-12-06T11:18:00.004-05:00

I am going to embrace winter. I am going to look at all the positive points of this season and not grimace my way through the next 5 months. Here is the start to my list.

WHY I LIKE WINTER:

1. Cold outside makes for warm and cozy inside.

2. I can snuggle up in a blanket all evening and not feel like I'm wasting glorious sunlight!

3. The snow falling is peaceful and lovely.

4. It gives me longer drives which means more time to listen to good tunes, think and pray for friends.

5. Drinking hot cocoa twice a day seems normal.

5. I can wear boots every day.

6. More family time. It's a plus to snow ruining some plans of going out. :)

7. Every drive is an unpredictable adventure. (ok really, this gives me anxiety every time I drive..but I'm going to work on trusting God with each of my trips!)

8. Kids bundled up in jackets and scarves and mittens make me smile.

8. It means Christmas is here and I ADORE Christmas!

9. I love dressing in layers and winter makes that a good thing.

10. I'm getting married in winter. So that'll give me something to like about it every year.

11. God gave us this season too - so if he thinks it's a good thing, I want to as well.

What about you? Anything you'd like to add to the list? Do comment!

lizzy & darcy

2010-12-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

"It will not do. My feelings cannot be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you."

I just discovered this gal's shop on Etsy - LOVE it!!!

Happy Monday to you!

the weekend is here..

2010-12-03T11:03:00.004-05:00

This looks like a lovely spot to sit and read while sipping coffee..or tea..or hot chocolate in the morning. I'm finding the wood finish on those chairs particularly divine.
Plus - tulips on the table? Perfection.
I'm having a Catalog Living moment here and thinking "how on earth am I going to drink my tea and eat all 3 pears?"

Hope everyone has a lovely, relaxing weekend - full of as much fresh fruit as you can handle.

image via here

feeling "showered"

2010-11-29T09:40:00.002-05:00

I care about this blog. I really do! It just seems other things take first priority..like spending time with family over the last few days..and eating turkey..and being "showered" with wedding presents..and hunting for and cutting down the most wonderful chubby Christmas tree...and going through old photographs and laughing at how 'stylish' a 12 year old I was....

We are less than 8 weeks away from the wedding (my dear buddy Lo just informed me..and I trust her calculations)..we're pretty stinkin' excited. And I don't know about Craig - but I'm feeling a little bit of the "yikes!" emotion as well...we're getting married for real. That's a pretty big deal!

Our wedding shower was on Saturday and was a small taste of what the wedding will be like - surrounded by dear friends, all celebrating our marriage with us. Truly we are blessed beyond measure!

holiday cheer!

2010-11-17T09:31:00.002-05:00

image found here (I'm not sure where it's from originally)

Next week is Thanksgiving. THIS kid is ready to welcome the holidays with open arms and a yellow jacket! Except my jacket is more the color of her skirt. Still - I'm ready!

Some Cleveland Love :)

2010-11-12T17:28:00.001-05:00

My friend Emily sent me this video (thanks Emmers!) and it's pretty fabulous!
For those of us who love Cleveland..well this is just a happy thing to see. :)
Happy weekend!!!

I think Bethany Dillon reads my journal.

2010-11-09T15:16:00.003-05:00

No joke. This song basically sums up my heart the last few weeks. Thanks Beth, you have such a way with words. The parts that are particularly meaningful to me are in bold.
Just so you know. :)

Tell me of a time when all this gray wasn't such a fight
A road I'd stay on for so long
How long have I been this way?
I'm so addicted to feeling guilty
Like the edge of a cliff, it's about to kill me
All the reasons why You wouldn't want to love me

Could I be loved by You?
I've got so much to prove

So tell me when this night is over
And the curtain falls
That I will know the truth
When it's the only thing that's standing tall

Still I know it's like pulling teeth
To try and convince me
That Your mercy can be bigger than what I deserve
I guess I'm just afraid to go head first
Into such a wave, drowning in wonder and peace
Knowing that it will never make sense
That I am loved by You, really loved by You

So tell me when this night is over
And the curtain falls
That I will know the truth
When it's the only thing that's standing tall

Unchangeable, unconquerable
Immovable, irremovable
Unwavering, untiring
Unflinching, stubborn love of God

So tell me when this night is over
And the curtain falls
That I will know the truth
When it's the only thing that's standing tall

Tell Me by Bethany Dillon