Knock Knocking

Free Black Apple Paper Doll

2012-01-27T10:37:00.000-06:00

Today is the perfect day to share Emily Martin's painted paper doll cutout. I went online this morning and printed it out for Abby-Sue who was such a trooper yesterday. Robert has been in pretty severe respiratory distress this week and we have spent even more time at the children's hospital than we normally do while we await his big airway surgery.

(the print-out is available after the jump)

As a mother, I always feel a pang of regret that my oldest child has to soldier through Robert's illness with so much responsibility. She is only three and such a helpful little thing. It's always fun to have something new and special to thank her for being such a good big sister. And isn't Emily Martin a dear to share something so beautiful with us without asking anything in return? What a kind artist. Here is everything you need to make this paper doll. xoxo Agnes

Neon n' Things

2012-01-23T09:54:00.000-06:00

Oh neon, you bizarre creature of the 80s, I have no idea how to decorate with you and I certainly have no clue how to wear you. But you remain quite clever and colorful and I can't help but love you. xoxo Agnes (Pssst! If you haven't already, do check out the January collaboration.)

dresses and table setting

A Collaboration and A Family Of Textile Workers

2012-01-22T17:00:00.000-06:00

It was exiting for me to share a few weeks ago that throughout the year 2012 I would be collaborating with a different artist every month to bring you new artwork. It seems only fitting that the first artist I work with this year is my own mother.

(more after the jump)

Therese Rioux Susanka was my first teacher in so many different ways and most importantly in sharing her own knowledge of the textile and mixed media art-forms. The love of creating images through fabrics goes back many generations in my French Canadian family. My great-grandfather was a weaver and my grandfather worked the giant looms when they moved to Maine from Quebec. My mother brought together the history of her French speaking family in her own way when she started her journey of machine embroidery. Her unique take on this technically challenging art-form has married her knowledge of the mechanics of the machine and her own artistic spirit. Creating a technique that is all her own, she graphically works the designs on her computer monitor first and then organizes her spools of thread using the color wheel as her guide. Working from one end of the color spectrum to the other, she effectively "paints" the design onto the fabric one colored layer at a time to create a textured image that is amazingly detailed and precise. We had so much fun working on this collaboration together. I knew I wanted to stay true to my own designs but allow them to be influenced by my mother's characteristic colors and images. I hope you enjoy what we have come up with! xoxo Agnes

2012 January Artistic Collaboration: Therese Susanka

2012-01-20T18:52:00.001-06:00

I've been dying to show the preview of this month's artistic collaboration and I can now reveal that the shop will be updated Sunday, January 22 at 5pm Central Time sharing the first collaborative work with Therese Susanka. Since I have done a release before that sold out too quickly for some of my fans to catch, I wanted to be sure to give some notice this time around. I am so honored to be working with this artist and will share many more details on Sunday here on the blog about her work. I know a couple will really surprise you! xoxo Agnes

Between The Folds: The Art of Origami

2012-01-20T08:20:00.001-06:00

Last night the independent documentary film Between The Folds showed up in my Netflix que. Being somewhat of a mixed media art junkie and slightly obsessed with the beauty of the Japanese cultural art of paper folding, I had to watch it. No cutting, no taping, no gluing. One piece of paper folded thousands of different ways to create masterpieces. To paraphrase Matisse, it is within the limitations of a medium that truly great art is born and it is hard for me to imagine a medium more passive than paper. The way that these Origami artists challenged themselves with new techniques and drew parallels between the laws of physics, math and geometry with their paper was nothing if not breathtaking. Here is an example of the diagrams they begin their work with. I absolutely could not turn away for even a second. I'm telling you, a day without watching this is a day with less beauty in your life. xoxo Agnes (Image source here, here and here)

Inspired Spaces

2012-01-16T19:41:00.001-06:00

Today I wanted to share a handful of lovely rooms. I love them all for different reasons but I especially enjoy the artwork in each space. I think the pieces play really well with the different wood textures in the rest of the rooms, don't you agree? via Design Sponge xoxo Agnes

Collaborations

2012-01-11T21:48:00.000-06:00

2012 is going to be a blast I tell ya. There has already been mind-boggling growth for Knock-Knocking with more artists and companies wanting to work together with me than I could have ever hoped for...and it is only January! I am truly blessed. I have lined up 12 artists who will be collaborating with me over the course of the year and I think you will be really interested behind the story of the first artist. I can't wait to share her work with you. I will be revealing the line later this month so stay in touch on my Facebook page for all the details! xoxo Agnes

Artwork For A Shared Room

2012-01-05T11:21:00.000-06:00

I've found a piece of artwork that works for both a boy and a girl. xoxo Agnes

Petite Hoops

2012-01-03T12:07:00.003-06:00

I call them the magnifying glass series. When it comes to tiny details I am a stickler about perfection and I wanted these petite hoops to have only the best vintage parts and heirloom quality composition. These mobiles are bitty works of fiber art that you can hang by a crib, desk or door knob. Everybody deserves a little bit of beauty and something to look at to make them smile, don't you think? xoxo Agnes

In With The New

2012-01-02T14:51:00.004-06:00

I'm so exited for 2012 I would say I am almost jubilant. Last year was a tough one for us and although it brought us together and brought us a baby, my hope is for a braver new day. I thought it would be fun to share a list of ten things I would like to accomplish starting yesterday. Because of the extenuating circumstances of our little boy's health and the monopoly this has on my time, this will be more of a dream list than a check list. I don't hold myself accountable to it nor will I have regrets if I don't finish the list. It is something to aim for and encourage me. I'm sharing a mostly a personal list with a couple of my more general business goals thrown into the mix since my business is personal. That's what being an artist is all about, right?

Get professional photos taken of our family and add them tastefully into our home. I already know I will be using my favorite photographer and friend, Elizabeth Hafner.
Go gluten and dairy free. It's something I've been encouraged to try by my doctor and I think it is the right time for me. I finally have a long term plan in place to make this happen since I need a way to reach this goal without setting myself up for failure.
Turn our spare bedroom into a fully functional studio and office space. This will require some creative thinking on my part since our home is smallish but I do enjoy a challenge.
Take banjo lessons. I own the banjo, I've learned some of it on my own, now it's time to take it to the next level. Twang, baby.
Go camping and hiking as a family. Now that we have two additions to our family, I am exited to share the great outdoors with them. Maybe take them cycling with us as well.
Visit Montreal. I want to see where my mother's family is from and visit my sister and her newly adopted son. I hope to learn a little ASL before I meet him if I can.
Commemorate my miscarried children, visually. I am a visual person, it's how I tell my stories and remind myself of things past.
Learn Photoshop, redesign the blog and know my way around making a well shot video. (That's three in one, is that cheating?)
Decorate our master bedroom and bathroom. This is a tall order but one of my favorite subjects to fuss and plan about.
Throw my sister the perfect pre-wedding party. Classy yet fun. She's getting hitched!

Did you make a list? Are you looking forward to a new beginning next year? Do share! I'll do a recap at the end of the year so we can compare how we met up with our goals.
xoxo Agnes (image source)

This and That

2011-12-28T11:29:00.001-06:00

I get asked what inspires me all the time and I usually answer color combinations. But that isn't really the entire answer. It's usually an interpretation of something I see that causes me to create a wreath. So today I wanted to share a few more This and That photos with you so you could see where my ideas come from; specifically.

(This wreath was inspired by the colors and textures of that painting by Amber Alexander)

(This new comic wreath was inspired by that comic book superhero)

(This yarn wreath was inspired by that cleverly crafted fox brooch by Hanako)
So there you have it. A little peek at some of the yarn wreath secret sauce. xoxo Agnes

On Trend: Comics

2011-12-26T11:54:00.000-06:00

Comic books are classic Americana. Even though Marvel set the standard, comic book images are constantly being reinvented in unexpected ways. Here is a round up of some of my favorite concepts giving tribute to one of our great art forms; the superhero comic strip. xoxo Agnes (from top right: 1.Comic Make-Up, 2.Wonder Woman Mixer,3. Comic Book Room, 4.Comic Book Birthday Party, 5.Comic Book Heels, 6.Speech Bubble Shelf, 7.Comic Book Covered Letter)

Hardship At This Time Of Year

2011-12-22T12:29:00.000-06:00

Although I grant that this is far heavier fair for the holiday season than most of the topics I blog about I thought it was important to touch upon a subject I have been giving much thought lately. This post also coincides this clip I saw of Will and Kate visiting a homeless shelter and it gave me pause. My friend created a thoughtful video about the impact that a single life has on everyone around them, even someone apparently forgotten, and I found it compelling. It is a painful idea and things that are sad we instinctively protect ourselves from for fear of feeling too much and not knowing how to process the pain. This has been a difficult year for our family since we are not in good health but I think it has given me more insight and compassion towards those who are greatly more unfortunate than we are. I was haunted by the images that Lee Jeffries captured of the homeless people he encounters all over the world. I am unable to go to a shelter and serve soup this year since my own child is so sick, but I can share these images and thoughts with you and encourage you to share your blessings with others and appreciate those around you who need an extra hand, especially during this season when being alone is so difficult. A smile can change someone's life, not just their day.

xoxo Agnes

Even More Extreme Holiday Wrapping

2011-12-19T22:32:00.000-06:00

I've been kicking it old school with my one of my very favorite stations on Pandora created three years ago with melodies I associate with the holidays; think Vienna Boys Choir. I've also been getting assemblagy (if that isn't a word, take note...it is now) and created some gift wrapping art for my husband's Christmas exchange at work. They had a cap on what each Secret Santa could spend so I glammed up the packages with leftover bits and baubles collected over the years as collectors of bits and baubles have been known to do on occasion. He picked the gifts out himself and frankly I'm not even sure what was in this box. Possibly a mug? Who knows. I hope it goes well with an icy snow dancer. Also, my little yarnland monster has been getting some huge press, I saw him over on Ohdeedoh, OhCrafts and Lil'Magoolie. If he had cheeks, I'm sure he'd be blushing. xoxo Agnes

Typewriter Art

2011-12-19T18:10:00.002-06:00

The artist Tyree Callahan created an entry for the 2012 West Prize competition which is won by popular voting. He used a 1937 Underwood Standard typewriter and modified it by replacing the letters with ink pads and labels creating a machine which effectively paints while it types. I stumbled on this blog and had to share this conceptual work of art. It really is amazing how out of the box this medium is. In a round about way I also found Keira Rathbone's work and after I picked my jaw off the floor I realized that this is really happening; typewriter art. It's like back to the future. An old idea used a brand new way. xoxo Agnes

Moss and Seafoam Owl Yarn Wreath

2011-12-14T11:01:00.002-06:00

Another little bird has alighted in the shop today. It's in one of my favorite and most unexpected color combinations and it tells a story in wool felt blooms, bronze accents and a flag bunting detail. I'm creating my last shipment on Saturday so if you live in the US this can be in your home by Christmas. Hoot hoot! xoxo Agnes

Extreme Wrapping Paper

2011-12-14T10:58:00.001-06:00

If you have been watching to see what the newest installment of wrapping ideas will be from some of your favorites bloggers over on Martha Stewart Crafts like I have you will not be disappointing with the latest from Somethings Hiding In Here. Isn't this a brilliant and unique idea? I find it quite stunning.
This is totally ridiculous, hysterical and bizarre. I love it in a geeky, artsy kind of way. It's certainly extreme wrapping and I can think of about 5 guys (and a couple gals actually) who would get a big kick out of this burger if they found their stack of presents under the tree like this. xoxo Agnes

2011-12-12T12:42:00.000-06:00

I created this gold grapevine wreath in the spirit of Christmas past; it has a vintage feel to it and lots of little glittering touches. It's all ready to ship and makes a lovely holiday gift. xoxo Agnes

3.2 Million Dots

2011-12-12T07:57:00.000-06:00

Hero from Miguel Endara //Wow, this is so amazing. What patience for his art form. Inspiring. xoxo Agnes

Palomas Nest Giveaway

2011-12-09T15:34:00.001-06:00

Today's giveaway is from the lovely shop Paloma's Nest. As you know, Jose and Caroline are great friends and so it is exiting to share their work here today. I fell in love with Santa's Key the minute I saw it. It makes the awkward conversation of how Santa delivers presents without a fireplace disappear like magic. This Key for Santa is crafted of a vintage skeleton key that has been coated in pure 18K gold leaf. A hand stamped ribbon tag with a tiny golden grommet hangs from olive green silk ribbon, enough to hang over your door knob. The Key comes wrapped in a cloth drawstring bag, custom stamped with your family name or the text of your choice. To enter to win, like Knock-Knocking over on our Facebook page and comment on the giveaway information by sharing a family holiday tradition. The winner will be drawn this time next week. Extra points to whomever tweets, blogs or shares this on facebook. Good luck to you all! xoxo Agnes

So You Think It's Cold Where You Are?

2011-12-08T09:44:00.001-06:00

Imagine being in a place where icebergs like this or this were a common occurrence. It's just now starting to really feel chilly in Austin and I love it. The entire year I spend trying to cool down and right now I am wearing eight sweaters at once. I think it is layering overdose. Scarves, gloves, hats... I am wearing everything winter fashionable that I find on Pinterest at the same time because I don't know how long this cold snap will last and since it is so balmy here in Central Texas, I want to make sure I utilize the moment. I think I may look like this. xoxo Agnes

My New Handmade Baby Mobile

2011-12-07T09:33:00.001-06:00

Having researched baby mobiles for countless hours, I realized that everything I wanted couldn't be found in one individual mobile and still work in the kids shared space. I have an eye on a BabyJives mobile, but that is going into my studio, I have to have it all to myself. Hee. So I combined all of my favorite components into one I made for the babies. It has so many things I love; yarn, felt, vintage beads, and little knitted critters. Although I photographed it in front of the door, I hung it under the heat vent and it sways gently above Robert's oak crib.

The hanging bobbles and characters are bits and pieces I have collected over time. I wanted to make sure that the piece had a very homey, vintage look so I kept to gentle textiles and added some vintage threading beads for some dimension. The beautiful ceramic tile was a gift from my friend Caroline over at Palomas Nest and the mushrooms are needle felted ornaments.

I think it came out sweetly but more importantly Robert and Abby-Sue just can't get enough of it. I found them snuggled up in the baby's crib under a blanket pointing at it as it swayed in the breeze. Aww. xoxo Agnes

Baby Robert Pascal Update

2011-12-05T08:41:00.001-06:00

I have received so many requests for a baby Robert update I am truly touched and grateful that this many strangers could be united by good wishes for my little fighter baby. In brief, things go up and down with our now 8 month old son. We recently discovered that Robert had a massive infection from post surgery that we didn't know he had been battling. It isn't responding well to antibiotics yet but at least we now know he has it so I hope things will look up. He continues intensive therapy to correct his muscle disorders and I see a lot of improvement there as well...which is exiting. We are still looking at a muscle relaxing surgery but at least they have given us some time to see if he will be able to walk first. The biggest issues that we are facing right now are breathing and severe eating problems. He is undergoing extensive testing for airway and chest deformities and every new test for swallowing shows more and more delays and difficulties. He wears newborn diapers and outfits so unfortunately we haven't been able to get out of the failure to thrive diagnosis yet. It can be pretty discouraging and overwhelming but now we have a case worker devoted to Robert's care and she helps me navigate the maze of medical terms, specialists and doctors. His disposition remains beautifully sunny and sweet. He loves holding hands, stroking our faces and laughing with his sister and every new developmental advancement brings added perseverance to his father and myself to bring him closer to his best health. Thank you for your continued prayers, we couldn't do this without them. xoxo Agnes

Drawing With Thread and Pins

2011-12-05T07:42:00.001-06:00

When I first stumbled onto Irish born textile artist Debbie Smyth's work, I was floored. She uses pins and threads to draw images and capture visuals in the most unexpected way. She calls this technique threading. Part of her skill, for me, is the fact that she doesn't use pre-sketched work, she draws from scratch using her hammer. I also really enjoyed her perspective on the textile art movement as well. She believes that the element of lovingly, carefully and time heavy handmade is appealing to people right now because of the down home and crafty element and the tradition of fabric and textile arts are becomingly increasingly popular for those reasons. I have found this increasingly to be the case in my own work so I really appreciate Debbie's take on the matter. I encourage you to view her video clip where you can observe her work her unique medium. I am just so inspired by this artist who constantly challenges herself to new levels of creativity and you can continue to watch her journey by following along with her blog. xoxo Agnes

Elf On The Shelf

2011-12-03T08:40:00.001-06:00

It's time for Elf on The Shelf! If your babies are as curious and imaginative as mine, I think you will enjoy this little idea guide for spots to put that little elf. (There is an entire photo pool of ideas over on this Flickr group!) I hope you all have a restful weekend, full of memory making activities. I think we are going to head over to the lighting of the Christmas tree at the capital and perhaps grab some hot coco and listen to some caroling as well. xoxo Agnes (image source)

Granny Chic

2011-11-30T08:57:00.001-06:00

My friend Emma Lamb coined the term Granny Chic and I have been thinking about the phrase a lot of late ever since I snagged my very own antique Thonet Bentwood rocker. I think a journey a lot of designers take is one of moving away from more traditional elements and into modern design territory before they find themselves back in the middle and able to blend both sides of the design equation. I think that Meghan McEwen's home in Detroit as seen over on Design Sponge is a particularly beautiful example of how one can live in the beauties of the past yet bring in modern textures. Do you have any furniture from your grandmother or home decor from decades past thrown into the decorating mix of your home? xoxo Agnes

Royalmint & Handymaiden

2011-11-28T14:38:00.001-06:00

Two of my favorite artists in the whole entire world (maybe even the universe, y'all) have joined forces to create collaborative pieces that are absolutely whimsical and 100% imaginative. Sabina is the curator of her little shop of treasures Royal Mint and hails from Montreal. A fellow French Canadian! Yet another reason to love her work. She was recently featured seller on Etsy and you can read her interview here. Danielle has been a lovely, supportive friend to me and I just think her work is exquisite. She has a delightful running commentary over on Twitter which I just love reading. She runs Handy Maiden I've never seen anything quite like her shop. She creates hand painted miniatures of all different variates of critters and her brush work is so detailed sometimes you don't know if the animal is real or one of her own cleverly created species. I am itching to make a terrarium to house one of these little works of art in and I encourage you to check them out and support these artists when you shop small for the holidays this year. xoxo Agnes

Extreme Gift Wrapping Holiday 2011 - Monsters In Yarnland

2011-11-23T15:28:00.001-06:00

Last year I had a lot of fun coming up with new and imaginative ways to wrap the presents hanging out under the Christmas tree and being distributed to freinds and family. This year I am starting early with a present for a little boy who's birthday also coincides with the holidays.

You know how that can be. So I thought it would be a good time for a little two-in-one action with a playful monster ornament that would be a good addition to the Christmas tree but is fun enough for all year. I got a little carried away with the yarn but it turned out quite colorfully. Do you like it? I am not the world's best seamstress so I kept it simple and hand sewing to a minimum.

I'll try to add a lot of new gift wrapping ideas as the holidays draw closer on this little blog but I wanted to kick off the season with a cheery start. A very Happy Thanksgiving to you all! xoxo Agnes

Les petits bohèmes

2011-11-21T08:27:00.001-06:00

Les petits bohèmes has some new inventory which is to die for it is so exquisite. I found a photo of a sweet little nursery they created in a Parisian boutique that just melted my heart it was so unique and different. Get a load of those crocheted lamp shades, will ya? The rest of the store design is sweet and understated as well. xoxo Agnes

Imagine

2011-11-11T19:30:00.001-06:00

Murmuration from Sophie Windsor Clive on Vimeo.

One of the most spectacular things I have ever seen. I cried watching this. xoxo Agnes

What Veteran Means To Me; My Family

2011-11-11T07:20:00.001-06:00

I grew up with a Vietnam veteran. He was called Bright Eyes by his buddies as he grew up in French Canadian Maine but his mother called him David. He enlisted when he was 18. He was completely blinded and partially paralyzed by a land mine the next year while serving as a sergeant in Charlie Company. The next year he spent in hospitals being told his vision and right side might come back. His brother Micheal also served in the same company and would come to the hospital and play his guitar for him; all the folk tunes that were so popular at the time hour after hour, day after day. His partial hearing loss, his vision, his paralyzed right side never did come back but that never stopped him. He went to college with my mother (his sister) and people would sketch the homework on his back with their fingertips so he could learn the material for class the next day. He completed his masters and then his doctorate in theology in Quebec. He lived with his sister Therese, my mother, in the master suite in our family home. My parents, the seven of us and Mon Oncle David. That's how it was. That was our normal. To this day they still speak in French to one another. He taught from his room, he witnessed courage every day in the little things like asking for help to color coordinate his wardrobe or find something on the floor once he dropped it. He has put himself through a rigorous work out routine of walking, push ups and pull ups to keep himself in top physical shape through out the years. He never complains. He has now returned to Maine once again teaching and witnessing to that community out loud and by how happily he lives his life. No regrets. His service and sacrifice gave my sister Elizabeth the courage to adopt a baby boy born functionally deaf and blind herself and his witness has given me the courage to work with my own son who is so sick himself. Thank you Mon Oncle David. Thank you veterans for sacrifices that you made yesterday, for the ones you make today as a result of service. Thank you to my own dear brother in law Ryan who has bravely served three tours himself. No politics, so judgement, just gratitude. xoxo Agnes

(image source)

Twenty-Seven Names

2011-11-07T09:21:00.001-06:00

Have you seen the new winter 2012 lookbook for the New Zealand store twenty-seven names? I think it's wicked smart. xoxo Agnes

Select Press for Knock-Knocking's Original Felt And Yarn Wreath

2011-11-01T09:51:00.001-05:00

I have some exiting news to share!! Coming out at just about the same moment I have interviews in both Simply Handmade holiday edition and Better Homes and Garden's Do It Yourself Magazine. It is such an honor to represent Etsy in these articles and very special for me to see just how far my little felt and yarn wreath has come. Head over to your closest craft store or magazine rack and scope out the websites for more details. The lovely woman who shot the Better Homes And Gardens interview is Ryann Ford, she was a joy to work with and made my few weeks postpartum look half way decent blown up to 500 point and displayed on a shiny magazine page. :) xoxo Agnes

In Summary

2011-10-28T09:19:00.001-05:00

I am pinching myself for joy; it's finally chilly out. I have a sweater with thumb holes I have been dying to wear since the start of this crazy summer and I am finally wearing it. After living through the hottest summer ever recorded in the history of America (we beat out the Dust Bowl, people) it feels amazing to have prickles on my back from the chill. As I close out the work week I wanted to share some of the best of the week from where I sat.

Living, growing, green architecture.
The awesomeness of this gingerbread chalet needs a new standard of measurement for how amazing it is. Imagine the time this must have taken to create!
If Justin were a tattoo kind of guy, I just might start pushing for this one.
It's no secret I have a huge girl crush on Candi Mandi. Her caramel salted martinis calls for some kind of celebration where I will have to make and serve these delicious treats.
I found this image very thought inspiring. As a mother to a very self conscious little girl, the way a woman views her body has been uppermost in my mind.
So this is an amazing use of all those extra wooden letters that are always hanging around and available in antique stores everywhere across the country.
Just in case you missed it, Paloma's Nest and knock-knocking joined forces for the holidays!

Have a beautiful weekend everyone; I hope there is pumpkin carving and chai tea in store for all of you. I know I plan on it. xoxo Agnes

Home or House

2011-10-25T09:10:00.001-05:00

What little rituals do you perform daily to create a home? Every time this part of the year rolls around I start thinking about things like this. One of the best tips I ever learned from my mother was to put a pot of water on simmer on the stove, add some nutmeg and cinnamon to it and let it create a delicious aroma of fall as it warms up. So easy, so autumnal. So what about you? What do you love to do this time of the year to create a feeling of warmth for yourself or your family in your home? xoxo Agnes

(image of my darling petite clay home from The Little Red Door on Etsy)

Paloma's Nest Collaboration

2011-10-24T07:59:00.003-05:00

Today Paloma's Nest revealed their new holiday line! There are so many handcrafted treasures and heirloom keepsakes and I am exited to share my own collaborative line of petite holiday hoops also available on the website. Working with Caroline was a dream come true. She is such a talented artisan in her own right and I am blessed to call her a close friend. Head over and feast your eyes on all the beautiful creations that the Paloma's Nest team has created for us this holiday season.

I'll Take A Little Creative Genius With My Chocolate

2011-10-20T09:21:00.001-05:00

I was pretty tickled to see that Andie's Specialty Sweets was the featured seller on Etsy for this week. I really enjoyed reading more about this creative couple and how their love of nature has given them so much inspiration. It's pretty clear to see in their photos just how talented this team is, I mean, LOOK at these treats! Makes we wish for a wedding cake redo. Don't get me wrong, I loved my wedding but if I were to do it all over again, I would use this shop topping everything. What did your wedding cake look like? If you aren't married, what event would you use this shop to decorate for? xoxo Agnes

Up and Up

2011-09-29T15:03:00.000-05:00

Things are looking up!!! Robert is doing better and our lives are returning to normal again. Phew! Post on all of this later, but for now, this. So utterly delightful. xoxo Agnes

Do you bake?

2011-09-17T14:58:00.002-05:00

Do you bake? Like baker's twine? Bow ties? Maybe this is the number for you. My most popular yarn wreath ever, updated with a twist and looking sassy, if I do say so myself. Which I do. xoxo Agnes

Cloud Lights

2011-09-16T08:41:00.001-05:00

(source)

It's Friday!! What a long week, I'm so glad it is over and done with. On with the next, newer, brighter, happier one. What are your plans? I think I am going to reorganize a closet with my new Missoni for Target bins and work on the knock-knocking collaboration with Paloma's Nest. It should be fun! I am also thinking I never formally introduced you to the new knock-knocking website. Check it out if you have a moment and enjoy your weekend! xoxo Agnes

Where Does This Path Go?

2011-09-12T11:26:00.002-05:00

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It has been challenging to address everyone through Etsy, my website, this blog; writing online feels impersonal sometimes. Part of the reason for this is that a lot of what we are going through with our baby right now is full of unknowns. For everyone who didn't read the birth announcement and my struggle with miscarriages , our son’s pregnancy was a hard one and Robert was born with a true, tight knot. His movement and oxygen in uterus declined so we had an emergency c-section to remove him rapidly. About two weeks after he was born we noticed his total inability to maintain food normally and started on a three month course of medications and treatments, maxing out on seven medications, an NG tube and medical food to control the illness. At four months old now he has not thrived and is not on the chart for weight or height. He recently developed neurological symptoms which have caused him to be removed from almost all of his medication and countered with remedy medications leaving his reflux essentially untreated. To date, this has not significantly helped his neurological symptoms but we are still hopeful that these are not indications of a more severe problem. He is being extensively tested for brain disorders and in the mean time is being monitored for breathing, feeding and vital signs since he has begun to aspirate his reflux. We are starting aggressive physical therapy to help treat his muscles on the left side of his body where his symptoms are presenting and speech therapy to counter the oral aversion to food which we fear will return now that he is off of his pain medication. We are having a button tube and fundoplication surgery as soon as other brain diseases are ruled out to buy us time to start testing and treating him for allergens and illnesses. Our family and friends are very supportive so we have lots of help but please pray for our little family during this incredibly frightening time that we keep faith and that our son regains his strength and has a good quality of life. I continue my business at knock-knocking with shop updates as I am able and try to remind myself that this too shall pass and that we can have happy, full lives without obsession over illness if we simply remind ourselves of the simple joys in life. Any tips for how to keep a bored little three year old happy? Abby-Sue is in need of some new distractions and I count the day a success if I don't find myself binging on ice cream in the corner sobbing as I watch bad re-runs. Baby steps, right? :) Thanks in advance for any toddler entertaining tips! xoxo Agnes
xoxo Agnes

On Trend: Rainbows and a Robert Update

2011-09-05T11:59:00.000-05:00

I wish I could kiss is all away and make it better. When you have to watch your child suffer, it feels deeply wrong even though you know that whatever illness shares that little body, it is already there and you can't wish it away. You are responsible for that life and even when you are so tired you just want to lie down in bed and cover your head with your pillow, you have to get up, get dressed and carry on. It's not that you are brave or have super powers, it's that you don't have a choice. The only choice you do have is how you carry on. And Justin and I have been trying to do it bravely albeit with some fear and at times, denial.

Our tiny four month old son is looking at a gastric bypass and button tube, is being medically monitored for breathing problems, is starting physical therapy and seeing a neurologist for muscle problems and is on medical food for unknown allergens and reflux. He is on so much medication and in so much pain I have to trust that there is a greater good at work in our lives and believe even more in the art I create since I need now more than ever to have beauty in my own life and the lives around me. Which brings me to rainbows.

I think every artist who started their career in painting has a childlike love of rainbows. They contain everything; all the potential of all the colors in the spectrum. And who doesn't like hope? Thank you to all of my readers for checking in on me, sending me little notes and being more supportive than I could have ever imagined possible. You are really there for us, and it's been amazing. xoxo Agnes

Rainbow Hair Rainbow House Rainbow Stairs

Watercolor

2011-08-30T08:03:00.001-05:00

I have been super busy this week which is why I have been missing from my blog for the past few days. I am working on holiday pieces and preparing for the Christmas rush which is always an exiting if an insane time of year. I wanted to share a soothing image with you from The Color Collective highlighting the work of one of my favorite visual artists, Glynis Selina Arban. Although I must away again, doesn't this image feeling calming and unusually beautiful? xoxo Agnes

Wearing Accessories and Mixing Your Wardrobe

2011-08-23T13:40:00.002-05:00

This is a topic that is widely disputed. What are the best ways to wearaccessories? Are there actual rules ordoes anything go? While I think thereare many variations between personal styles, certain recipes can be taken as auniversal when it comes to accessorizing and layering clothing and when appliedto personal appearance usually create a pleasing outfit. I wanted to share with you, my lovely readers, a few pointersthat I use in my own wardrobe and would be fascinated to see what you think onthe matter. It is fashion week in Austin, so the timing seems pretty apt.

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Opposites attract

I think this is a somewhat new concept when it comes tofashion if you allow for new to be described as the last twenty-five years of trends. Matching is not as happening anymore andthere is something visually pleasing about mixing a sweet cotton knee length dresswith a rugged brown leather jacket and gladiator sandals. It is unexpected and anything that isunexpected the human eye reads as interesting. The same is true for accessories. If you are wearing a wiggle shift dress, go ahead and use those earringsyou have been saving for a special occasion, you know the ones; asymmetricalwith a feather? Too much of the samething can be equal parts boring or busy so it is important to create a blendvisually.

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Have one major focal point

Too often people fall into the trap of wearing a statement braceletwith over sized earrings and a similar style necklace all at the same time. As Coco Chanel is so famous for saying, “Beforeyou leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” This is especially true of accessories. Less is more. When you aregetting dressed in the morning, decide what you want to be the statement pieceof your wardrobe. If it is those linenharem pants, let them set the theme for the rest of the outfit and keepeverything else toned down. If it isthat gold cuff bracelet you love, pair it with jeans and breezy whitetunic. Having too many special pieces onat the same time looks cluttered and indecisive. Less is more when it comes to chic. If you really want to wear several pieces along with your focal piece,let the other ones read as a neutral and tone them down with color and size. For example; leather, nude and wood coloreditems tend to blend away wearas gold, jewel tones and pearl make strongervisual impacts. Layering is a perfectlyfashion acceptable way of making a statement piece as well. I have been known to wear as many as twelvebracelets at the same time. Stack ‘em onbaby!

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Be mindful of color, texture and shape.

When I am getting dressed, I tend to work with the rule ofthree when it comes to color, shape and texture. I use a neutral, a color and an accent color,three separate textures and a variation of sizes and shapes. For example, you could use a neutral denim, ahigh print cardigan and an accent of chocolate wood in a necklace. Don’t be afraid to add print into theformula either! As long as one of eachprint reads like a neutral, color and accent, it should work just fine. Another example, you could have your neutral be acream with tiny navy pinstripe, thecolor be a large bold print and the accent be polka dots. It works!! This is also where texture and shape come into play. Again, too much of the same thing isn’talways a good thing when it comes to fashion so make sure you create balancewhen getting dressed and don’t have cotton on cotton or the same size and shape accessory. A wide peasant top will look overwhelming when paired with a full a-line skirt and a strong bangle will look overpowering when paired with a sharp blazer and button up blouse. Finally, don't forget to go bold! Too often I see people walking around with little things; littlewatches, little earrings, little prints. Good fashion isn’t afraid of going big, it just does it with care.

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Hopefully this post has a few pointers that you can use but asalways, explore your own style and see what works for you when you are gettingdressed. That is the beauty of it, youtell your own story with each item of clothing. Have fun! xoxo Agnes

Can you Guess?

2011-08-22T09:11:00.001-05:00

What my newest felt and yarn wreath spells? Here is the decoder. :) xoxo Agnes

French Inspired Outfit at Summer's End

2011-08-19T14:45:00.000-05:00

One of my readers (hi Kathy!) asked me to write another fashion post and I realized it had in fact been a while since I had authored one so without further ado, here is a round of up fun pieces for the end of summer. The dress is a dreamy a-line from Anthropologie called Vintage Avi with the color being somewhere between teal and ocean waves. It cinches in nicely with this skinny glittered belt from J.Crew in black. I think the combination of the almost pastel dress with the black gives this outfit a very French inspired look, don't you? A subtle touch that doesn't detract but adds a little fines to this collection is this pair of capri swing earrings from ShopBop. Paired up with a pair of classic espadrilles from Canvas and a little gloss of perfection in Essie's Sand Tropez and you have a versatile little number ready to move from a downtown stroll to evening cocktail; ocean side of course. Happy weekend peeps! xoxo Agnes

Hanging Umbrellas

2011-08-15T10:33:00.001-05:00

I am always delighted by the party decoration ideas I find on this blog and these upside down hanging parasols were no exception. Don't you just love them? xoxo Agnes

On Trend - Paper Staws

2011-08-08T08:47:00.000-05:00

Today's this and that was inspired by a real BHLDN wedding featuring vintage style paper straws in gray, lemon and hot pink. Here is the finished wreath. I just love that paper straws are making a come back, don't you? Occasionally I create a design I feel is so special I only want to create one of them, so if you love Bonjour No. 1, you might want to grab it up first. :) Happy Monday everyone! xoxo Agnes

Donut Cake

2011-08-03T09:08:00.001-05:00

I was browsing Style Me Pretty as I have been known to do on many occasions when I came across this amazing Arizona wedding gallery. Wow, the colors, the theme, the everything? Perfect. I think the donut cake really takes the ribbon for most clever use of wedding pastry interpretation. xoxo Agnes

Party in A Boat

2011-08-01T08:17:00.004-05:00

To kick the week off, I thought I would share a particularly stunning idea from one of my favorite sites; Southern Weddings. Should any of us actually be lucky enough to own a canoe or little boat and have a party by a water setting, wouldn't this be just the thing to keep beverages chilled? So fun. Also, today is the very last day to enter the butterfly necklace giveaway, so enter in your names one and all! Hope your Monday is off to a rip roaring start. xoxo Agnes

Indoor Swings

2011-07-28T09:03:00.003-05:00

If you haven't seen Ashley Anne's blog before, you have to check it out. I was on the prowl for indoor swing inspirations and her site was at the top of my search. I especially love the tour of her kid's playroom. What a fun life her babies must lead. xoxo Agnes

Just Another Monday

2011-07-25T09:36:00.003-05:00

I joined the local gym a couple of weeks ago and have really been enjoying getting back into the swing of a regular work out. Working out is a funny thing; you either do it or you don't and even if you feel goofy at your dance class or lifting your little 7 pound weights, it sure laps whoever is sitting on the couch at home. Although I have been known to look at photos of slender, fit women and aspire to their physic, it is also nice to look at photos like this and remember that beauty really does come in all sizes and the most truly beautiful women I know are also the ones with the most self confidence. It's been said before, but bears repeating if you are a woman under the age of 80 in this culture. I found this helpful as I was browsing Pinterest yesterday. Also as a little side note about beauty, there is still time to enter the giveaway! xoxo Agnes

Giant Dwarf's New Studio

2011-07-22T10:00:00.001-05:00

What a treat! Today I am going to share a few images from one of my favorite ladies; Sue Eggen from Giant Dwarf. She recently moved into a new studio and it is delightful to see how she decorated it.

It is completely practical and flows well for what she does but does so beautifully. I love the chartreuse and salmon tones and especially love the little swing in the corner. Cup of tea anyone?

Don't you love the vintage touches? The lockers and weathered cabinet are so tasteful; what a clever way to store things you need that is also easy on the eyes. I don't know about you but I am incredibly inspired by this studio. As my business continues to grow (explode?) I desperately need a more organized and thought-out space and Sue shares how one can do just that and more. I would say this is a retreat as much as a crafting studio. xoxo Agnes

The Difficulty of the Family Photo

2011-07-20T08:18:00.001-05:00

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As soon as you enter my home you would notice that I don't have any family photos. One might conclude that I don't like my family which is of course, not the case. What I don't like are family photos. I don't know why, but as long as I have been Agnes, the family photo has been uncomfortable for me. I don't know if it feels posed or cheesy or just not artistic enough but it is a struggle for me to get a photo on the wall. If you are anything like me, I think you will also breathe a sigh of relief as you see that we can all have our cake and eat it too. Here are fun, family photos that are, well, artistic! Boom! Looks like a family portrait session is long overdue for the Blum family. xoxo Agnes

My Selvaged Life

2011-07-15T14:17:00.001-05:00

We have another giveaway peoples! This time it's fantastic artist Heather from My Selvaged Life. Her work feel so eclectic in the most perfect way to me. I asked Heather what inspired her and she said she is inspired in three ways; first, from the themes and trends that are popular on Etsy, The second way is simply by shopping for supplies. The third way she gets inspiration is probably the rarest for her. Heather says, "it involves having time to myself, and since I have a 6 year old and a 4 year old, that almost never happens. I like to just sit quietly with my beads, stampings and supplies. I sort them and look at them and that's usually when ideas start to form and pour out and I usually can't keep up, I'll have so many." Gosh I know how that feels and can really relate to Heather. But I think that is her gift. Using her abilities to create pieces that touch everyone in a different way but speak to everyone equally. So entry info: Tell me how you would wear this beautiful piece in a summery outfit. Get creative! Next week I will pull a random number for a winner. Extra points if you blog, tweet or facebook about it. And for a little extra fun, I am going to share some of my favorite outfits that y'all post this week later on with another blog post all of it's own. Have fun! xoxo Agnes

The Mini Garden Trend

2011-07-14T14:02:00.003-05:00

When someone says pot garden, I think most folks thing of some stringy plants in an over sized clay pot wilting on the front porch or at their best moments, a large bushel of strawberries that someone has miraculously been able to keep alive in the kitchen through the summer. It wasn't until I saw these mini gardens that a whole new world opened up to me. Much like the insane dollhouse fever that is sweeping the world where every last detail is perfect, this container garden is precious in the just the same way. It's like playing with a dollhouse for those with an exceptional green thumb. xoxo Agnes

Vintage Ice Cream Truck

2011-07-12T20:11:00.003-05:00

I just stumbled across the best idea ever when I was looking at Green Wedding Shoes and had to share it. Vintage ice cream trucks at weddings! Or if you aren't getting married, vintage ice cream trucks at parties. Heck, vintage ice cream trucks ANYWHERE is fine with me! I just can't get enough of it; so sweet, so retro, so perfectly fun in every summery, childlike way. Here is another cute one. Poor Abby-Sue, the girl is only three and I am already planning what we will serve for dessert at her wedding reception. xoxo Agnes

Beautiful Sweet Zuzii

2011-07-11T15:35:00.003-05:00

As if baby toes weren't yummy enough already, the mother and daughter team of Zuzii have created the most darling little fabric sandals for babies. The thing that makes them so perfect is that they can be worn beautifully by little ones that aren't even walking yet! In other news, I started taking Flow Yoga. It is amazing to me that such a relaxing and gentle process can whip your rear into gear so effectively. I just love it. What does your work out routine consist of? xoxo Agnes

Weekly Wrap Up and Giveaway Winner Announced

2011-07-08T13:05:00.003-05:00

Drum roll please!!! Thank you all for entering the giveaway last week! After carefully entering the numbers in the random number generator, the results are in folks! #21 is the first number generated and the winner, a lovely lady named Claire who said she would wear this necklace with everything from jeans to skirts. Thanks for playing everyone! Clare, please send me an email address via my Etsy message system so I can send this your way. Also, I needed to share this neat iPhone decal, isn't it too clever and funny? xoxo Agnes

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All Together Now

2011-07-07T09:25:00.000-05:00

I have about a zillion favorites on Etsy, but the ones that always seem to pop back up in my top ten are fellow felters.
1. Miss Laura is the captain of the Lupin ship, a veritable pillar of the Etsy community. What I love most about her work is the depth of her use of shape. She can transpose almost any image and make it whimsical when is appears in her felt creations. She is always sharing what new books she is reading and what she is working on in her blog.
2. Sue from Giant Dwarf has the very unique ability to create pieces in shapes and styles you never knew existed but which you simply must have at the cost of eating beans and bread for a month. Be sure and keep up with her on Facebook, so she always posting the most inspiring thing, like her new studio make over for one.
3. Miss Melissa is one of my favorite folks ever. Her shop Sew Sweet Stitches says it all. Really, she has the best needlework I have ever seen. Her personality shines through her work, it's just beautiful and fun in every way. Gotta follow her blog, it is eye candy.
4. Last up but in every way a leader in color is Faith from Ordinary Mommy. What I love the most about Faith's work is her use of color. I feel we are kindred spirits in many ways and her love of tones and shades is so apparent, it makes me feel so happy when I look at her work right from the soles of my feet to the top of my head. Check out all of these artists folks, they are brilliant. xoxo Agnes

Rockabilly Gal

2011-07-06T08:48:00.000-05:00

I think there is a little more retro rockabilly in me than I would have at first thought. I think I am going to do this look today. xoxo Agnes

My Ojai Wedding, Holy Blast From The Past

2011-07-05T09:57:00.003-05:00

I recently happened upon a stack of old snap shots from my wedding. You know, back in the day when folks took pictures with film and went to drug stores to get them printed? Yep, that kind. I scanned them onto the computer for kicks and decided to share a couple with you today. They are kind of grainy but I think you get the general idea. Justin and I were married in Ojai, California and it was a large wedding. I do have six siblings, after all. :) It was a lovely spring day, the first weekend after Easter which is a particularly lovely time of year in Ojai.

Lots of flowers, lots of sunshine, lots of breezes. My bridesmaids were in all in tea length chocolate brown J.Crew dresses with bunches of green hydrangeas. I had a cake with Swarovski cake picks of butterflies, dragon flies and flowers from Very Different Cake. It was all sort of a theme inspired by my bridesmaid gifts which were china teacups with garden motifs on them from Tiffanys. They no longer sell the tea cups I purchased, but the link shows the same motif. I doubt it will go down in the books as the most stylish wedding of the season but it was created from the heart, celebrated with freinds and at the end of the day, it was the best kind of wedding, because it joined me to my best friend. xoxo Agnes

Root Beer Float Cupcakes

2011-07-04T10:04:00.002-05:00

Nothing in the whole world says summer to me like root beer. When I was young our family used to visit my mother's family by Portland, Maine. My uncle would have brewed the best home made root beer weeks before and would bring it out of the cellar for our lobster boils and BBQs. It had the richest, most nutty flavors ever. Perfection in a bottle with a long striped straw. I am itching to make these cupcakes via Smitten Kitchen where I snagged these lovely photos and nostalgic recipe.

Since my son just got on a feeding tube due to his reflux on Friday we are just going to stay home and have the laziest, most low key 4th of July ever and learn the ropes of his new feeding schedule. What are you doing to celebrate the independence of our country? Have a blast, dearies and don't forget to enter my giveaway for a Woodland Belle necklace! xoxo Agnes

Giveaway! Woodland Belle on your neck!

2011-07-01T10:57:00.003-05:00

Ok, it's time for this blog to get awesome. I'm going to start doing some giveaways featuring items I would personally slap a stranger to own. First up is the spectacular shop Woodland Belle. Mai has been making design waves with her totally unique collaborations between fashion and nature from her studio in North Carolina for some time now. To enter is easy peasy. Tell me how you would wear this necklace and you are entered to win it! What shirt would you use, how would you do your hair? Jeans or skirt? Extra points will be awarded to those brave enough to tweet about my shop or blog or Facebook about the giveaway and risk annoying their friends. More points if you start following my blog or facebook page. Points everywhere people!! Heck, I may just give the necklace to you if you are brave enough to tell someone in person about what I do for the brownie points you will earn. So have fun. You have until Thursday night to enter and I will announce the winner on Friday. Good luck peeps!! xo Agnes

Design Seeds

2011-06-30T17:02:00.002-05:00

Design Seeds is my newest complete obsession. No seriously. OBSESSED. Be very careful my friends, if you start browsing it is quite likely you will stumble back out of this blog in a few hours wondering where your day went. You have been warned. I simply wash my hands of what happens next. I mean c'mon folks, it took me almost an hour to decide which photos I was going to use in this blog post. Jessica is a genius. xoxo Agnes

A Different Kind of Travel

2011-06-23T11:20:00.001-05:00

When I dream of travel I dream of places not often visited world wide or places close to me in the United States. Although I acknowledge their obvious draw and beauty, I would choose the Andes over Paris any day of the week and New Orleans over Rome and many other poplar tourist locations. Perhaps this makes me less cultured or close minded but I beg the point that Americans are quicker to travel outside of their nation than almost any other country on the earth. I think it makes sense to know where you are from first and know your roots before you venture out and back in history to other places in the world. Perhaps not as exotic a destination as some, I think these photos of Scotland are absolutely breathtaking. Maybe it was listening to the Corries growing up or rereading Robert Louis Stevenson many times over but the rich cultural history of this country fascinates me endlessly. I spotted David Eustace over on the Anthropologist and instantly fell in love with his work and his ability to capture the moody, melancholic story of the Lowlands and the Highlands. If someone handed you a plane ticket for anywhere in the world for a flight leaving first thing in the morning, where would you go? xoxo Agnes

Not Your Grandma's Tattoo

2011-06-21T09:13:00.001-05:00

Although I grant that they are more controversial, tattoos much like comic books or video game graphics are a contemporary expression of the modern artist. I find tattoo artists of today are becoming masters of their unique mixed media; the human body. Many of them take the art form to whole new levels using the curves and colors of the bodies they are working with to create moving, living works of art. So weigh in, would you ever get a tattoo? Do you already have one? Do you have reservations about them? What do you think of these? xoxo Agnes

Big Girl Pants

2011-06-17T10:50:00.000-05:00

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It's time to put on my big girl panties and be brave. My newborn is very sick. He has severe reflux and is on 3 different medications, seeing a specialist and sleeps roughly 5 hours of the day total. The hours he is awake, he is hysterical. Through out miscarriages, miserable pregnancies and difficult births I have never experienced exhaustion like this. Robert wants to nurse about once an hour and for any other breastfeeding mothers out there, you can relate to how very much I feel like a shriveled up old raisin right now. So. Instead of sitting at home and feeling sorry for myself, I have decided to join a Zumba class and start a new line of wedding items for my shop. I am an extrovert and when the going gets tough I find myself refreshed by lively interactions and interesting activities. What do you do when you feel like you may fall down dead in your tracks? xoxo Agnes

Party Planner Till The Day I Die

2011-06-16T12:41:00.002-05:00

You would think that with an incredibly miserable newborn with severe reflux, potty training a stubborn and distracted toddler and a million and one things going on with my yarn wreath shop that I wouldn't have time to day dream about parties, but dream on I must. Please, when the last time you saw a party idea this gosh darn cute and yummy? I think that I may just do this for a craft night party. How many of you are having craft nights this year? I wanted to throw one on the same night as everyone else but since I had tons of family in town but I hope to do my own party this month. xoxo Agnes

Wings

2011-06-15T09:29:00.000-05:00

I know this tutorial has been making the internet rounds but sign me up as another person who can't get enough of this idea. xoxo Agnes

Hair Cut, Feathers and Visiting

2011-06-14T08:30:00.001-05:00

We just had a delicious weekend full of family and freinds in town for Robert's baptism. It was nice to step away from work for a little bit to relax and reconnect. But it is Monday and back to the grind. Luckily, I love everything about what I do and so today my job description involves sharing some particularly inspiring finds from across the interwebs.
1. Watermelon never looked so refreshing, just like a little rain shower in the dead of summer. I am really drawn to this photo today since we find ourselves in the middle of a drought with no end in sight. Here's to hoping I don't find myself showering in a bucket of water by the middle of September.
2. I got a haircut! With feathers!
3. I found this saying to be particularly inspiring. I think a yoga mat somewhere is calling my name.
4. Eating cake with asparagus? All day every day please!!! (So much for the yoga mat I guess, what can I say, I get distracted easily.)
Peace out kids. xoxo Agnes

Being Unique

2011-06-01T10:13:00.001-05:00

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Why do artists obsess about being unique and creating one of a kind art that no one else can lay claim too? Is it that they are totally self absorbed and constantly looking into themselves? I don't think so. Well, maybe some are but I think it has much more to do with the calling of an artist. It is a unstoppable drive to create something; the ability which uniquely allows the artist to show beauty in something that others might not have noticed.... a drape of fabric, a particular combination of colors, the knots in a gnarled tree. As long as there are artists being inspired by everything they see around them we will continue to see beauty in things we never even noticed before. It is a never ending journey. What artists really inspire you with their creativity? Have you ever felt this desire? xoxo Agnes

Brain Dead

2011-05-27T22:50:00.000-05:00

It's true. Without the simple conversations I have with neighbors, phone chats on the fly or with my husband at dinner these past few weeks, I doubt I would have any conscious brain activity whatsoever. I see myself going through the motions of the day (is that actually my body starting back at me in the mirror or is it some kind of alien monster wearing brown framed glasses?) but I am so exhausted from my squirmy little newborn that I can't recall any one specific task that was accomplished or original thought I might have had. I swear that newborns are this gosh darn cute for self preservation because for what else would we stumble around in a darkened bedroom trying everything from singing in the shower to bouncing on the edge of the bed listing to a bad recording of a lullaby playing out of a baby swing unless we were starting to lose our grip on reality? That is when I turn to blogs for a little energizing read. It's light, it's fun, it's distracting. Kendi Everyday is my new most favorite thing. You simply must delve in. xoxo Agnes

Mint Candy Apple

2011-05-26T10:14:00.000-05:00

Isn't this a lovely wedding? I love the mishmash of greens and prints. It totally inspired my Mint Candy Apple Yarn Wreath. I am heading to a wedding in Dallas in a few weeks so I have weddings on the brain. xoxo Agnes

Grapevine Wreaths Are Back!

2011-05-25T13:11:00.000-05:00

How about a little orange juice for your home or door? Grapevines wreaths are back! xoxo Agnes

Rings, Rings you Wonderful Things

2011-05-24T08:31:00.000-05:00

Isn't Old Dog Boutique fun? I found it by way of Pinterest by way of a sweet blog, by way of photos, et. etc. I especially love all of their charming rings. They are whimsical shapes and just a lot of fun. xoxo Agnes

Perfect Kitchen Tile and Other Good Things

2011-05-16T11:13:00.001-05:00

In the style of Making It Lovely, I thought today I would share a few of the things that really popped up and grabbed my attention lately and share them here with you. Let's, shall we?
. Isn't the back splash on this kitchen insane? I don't know who was bold enough to put this work space together, but it is certainly someone who loves spending time cooking and baking.
. Say what you will about her, Martha has does it again. The attention to detail in this tin is amazing.
. I love love love this pencil shavings necklace.
.Ez over at Creature Comforts has such a sweet idea for cupcakes, don't you agree? xoxo Agnes

Zebra Felt Yarn Wreath

2011-05-12T10:52:00.000-05:00

Today's clothing post is brought to you by Anthropologie and inspired by my own wreath. I've been seeing a lot of tribal inspired wardrobes and I like the subtle trend. Not being a person who has ever been able to wear animal print very well, the new take of this style is very fun; bold textures, inspired accessories, very different color combinations. Since I am now in that oh so common phase of post baby body, I have been on the lookout for flattering shapes to carry me through the weeks until I am healed enough to be able to work out once again. I think many of us have been there, right? I loved this dress, necklace and of course dashing wall head from Anthropologie and I thought they went along quite well with my first wreath in a series of new animal wreaths. xoxo Agnes

Friday already? Here's to it then!

2011-05-06T09:31:00.002-05:00

Wow, it has already been two weeks since I had my baby boy. Crazy, no? I think the rapid time passing can be partially attributed to little sleep and pain meds, but it is all worth it. Things have been pretty calm over here business wise since I am still in recovery mode but I have been working on some projects that I look forward to sharing with you soon. In the meantime, I have a color inspired round up for you. First up, so many windows and doors. Perfect.

If I were to do it all over again, I always tell myself that I would go a tad color crazy at my wedding, but I don't know, am I all talk? What would you do? Tights like this and bridesmaids in white?

High balloon fashion. Bizarre and fun.

I finally decided on how I will be re-painting the bedroom dresser, it has taken a lot of research and debating, but I will be using the ombre dresser as inspiration and will approach my own dresser in more subdued, cool tones.
I'll be seeing you around everyone, enjoy the weekend and for my sake, get some sleep! xoxo Agnes

Robert Pascal and a Birth Story

2011-04-27T20:18:00.003-05:00

It's official! The newest member of the Knock.Knocking. team is finally here! After a rough pregnancy full of medication, bed rest and worry, he arrived a healthy 8 pounds of yarn wrapping muscle. During a week of careful monitoring due to blood pressure worries, Thursday I awoke to a new, gnawing concern. I couldn't put my finger on it until I did a kick count and he failed. I was told to come into the office for fetal monitoring and he began to have heart issues registering there as well. By the time I was wheeled into labor and delivery, his little heart was plummeting into the 70 bpm range for minutes at a time and since I didn't have the corresponding contractions to explain this worrisome pattern, my Dr. gently told me that a VBAC was simply not in the cards for me and we had to get him out. In tears I called Justin and told him to get to the hospital as soon as possible and in what felt like mere moments I was robed up and holding the hands of a sweet labor and delivery nurse; bowing our heads in prayer that my little boy would make it out in plenty of time to take his first healthy breath. The spinal kicked in and after the pulling, tugging, nausea and worry that I remember so well from Abby-Sue's birth, my little boy was born with a kick and a scream. He had a true tight knot in his cord which had started to cut off all oxygen from the placenta and if he hadn't been born when he was, this story might have ended with sorrow. But thank God he is here and a champ nurser, as sleepy as a newborn kitten and as sweet as he was ever meant to be And a special thank you to all my readers and Twitter buddies that have helped me through a rough pregnancy, you all mean so much to me. And here is where I got this amazing hat, due to popular demand I wanted to include a link.
xoxo Agnes

Coolest earrings evah

2011-04-19T12:58:00.000-05:00

I love these so much it may border on the criminal. Can't wait to get them. xoxo Agnes

How's your Pinning?

2011-04-12T07:44:00.000-05:00

How is your pinning going? Mine is more than fine, I can't stop. It's a complete and total obsession that I have just let take over. It's easier than fighting it. Here is my round up of top interesting items that are hitting the screens over on Pinterest. First up? This bounty of dainty wedding cakes. Weddings are on the brain as Justin and I celebrate 4 years of marriage together. What a great guy, he makes me laugh so hard every day I want to pee. Could also be the fact that I am 38 weeks pregnant. We may never know.

This home is pure romance. Some dreamer somewhere expressed their love of nature in such a perfect manner when they built this home. I can almost feel stress melt away just looking at it, can't you?

A color combo to knock your socks off. Actually, there is more clothing in this link than anything else, but it is so bold and interesting you get where I was going with that. I could never pull off that acid citron color, but I could certainly see myself in some of the mauve and would love to see someone pull off everything.

Don't you love simple, clever things? Like these little egg flowers. Brilliant.xoxo Agnes

Tigers and Foxes and Kittens, oh my!

2011-04-10T15:15:00.000-05:00

My mother is very crafty, which is really fun for me since she is always sending wonderful little items my way. She made these hair clips for Abby-Sue and I just had to share since I think they are just too fun. xoxo Agnes

Wedding Rainbow Felt Yarn Wreath

2011-04-06T09:21:00.000-05:00

Ever since I saw this cake by Martha Stewart I have been itching to make a wreath in the same theme. I finally got all the felt I needed and am happy with how brightly it turned out. I supppose it would not have to be limited to a wedding, you could use it just about anywhere since it moves from season to season with as much ease as the color progression of roses up its pearly white side. xoxo Agnes

The Garden Geometric Felt Yarn Wreath

2011-04-02T09:33:00.000-05:00

Sleep is a scarcity in these last days of pregnancy. I embarked on a yarn wreath making journey last night and was exited when I reached the end to find this little number. Sometimes I don't know where the creativity will take me but have come to learn the less I try to have a perfect vision before the creative process begins, the more artistic freedom I enjoy. This felt yarn wreath is colorful, geometric and modern. It's fun to go with the trends sometimes, don't you think? xoxo Agnes

Happy Color

2011-04-01T15:19:00.002-05:00

Mmmmm, yes please! You all know me and my creations well enough by now to know that this collection of colors paired with this photo really sends me over the top. In love.
xoxo Agnes

Blank space problem solved

2011-03-30T15:35:00.000-05:00

I finally figured out what do this with the strange, huge space in my living room. Remember this post? I stumbled upon this idea via Pinterest by way of Apartment Therapy and I am sold on it. I already have the paint picked out that I am going to use and know just the medallions for the job. I can't wait to tackle this project. I guess I have to wait until little Mr. Blum decides to show up, but I can start all the planning and organizing. Stay tuned for the big reveal. xoxo Agnes

Houzz Ideabook

2011-03-24T15:46:00.000-05:00

I love browsing Houzz online. I find it so full of inspiration that I haven't seen other places on the internet before. I have rounded up a few of my all time favorites to share with you today. The first image is really sophisticated, don't you think? I am a bit weary of the branches on walls/woodland trend but I think this bedroom stays true to what people really fell in love with first about this trend and that is a connection to nature. Nothing too whimsical and goofy, just simple mature colors with a hint of the outdoors.

Possibly the reason I so fell in love with this next bedroom image is the mix of golds and pastels and white shades in a way that is a bit of Hollywood glam without being too feminine. Married to a very solid Texas guy, I need to be aware that my love of all things bright, white and airy doesn't always jive too well with his sense of space and home ownership. Images like this give me hope that there is middle ground to be found.

Where to even begin with this photo? All of it is perfection. The pop of color on the door that is so eclectic and modern, the scattering of frames which works in this space and doesn't feel too cluttered, the clean lines... love love love.

I am limiting myself to four images today since I could go on and on with different spaces but this blog post would soon become unwieldy. So last but not least, this vanity. It is in a word: unexpected. The black on black, the hints of art deco. A personality lives in this home to be sure; someone who isn't afraid to live life and take chances. What do you think of these spaces? How do they move you and which ones do you connect with the most? xoxo Agnes

WeWood

2011-03-22T16:10:00.000-05:00

I am officially obsessed with this watch company. I can't wait for mine to arrive and invite you to read up on everything WeWood does and how well they do it. xoxo Agnes

Let Nature In

2011-03-14T07:50:00.000-05:00

Every window in my home is open and there is a slight breeze full of raindrops and the smell of fresh earth wafting in through them. If you just breath in and out you feel the relaxation and beauty. I love this time of year. I love bringing the outside into my home and was so inspired by these photos from Design Sponge I just had to share them with y'all. How are you getting ready for Spring? xoxo Agnes

Felt Yarn Wreath Bright SideProject Giveaway

2011-03-11T08:23:00.000-06:00

I am having a giveaway over on the Bright Side Project so head over for your chance to win! xoxo Agnes

Happy Friday, Happy Pinning

2011-03-04T07:43:00.001-06:00

Can it really be the weekend already?? Wow, I guess so. Do you have plans? We have some curtain hanging, baby shopping to do and I think Justin will be taking Abby-Sue to the Zilker Kite Festival so it promises to be a busy one for the Blum household. Before all the chaos kicks in, let me share what I have been pinning on my digital cork board over at Pinterest.

These fingernail polishes by Megan Miller are available at Anthropologie and I am torn between wearing them and eating them. I'll let you know what happens.

Can you imagine this being handed to you as a little gift? I think it is the sweetest ring packaging I have ever seen, hands down.

The mind that thought of using this basket with these candles is a genius. Don't you love it so much it is almost wrong?

Hello perfect outfit. You are all stripey and nature inspired and I love you. I love you all too. Do something amazing this weekend. xoxo Agnes

2011-03-03T17:01:00.001-06:00

Isn't this a beautiful diaper bag? I already have a Petunia Pickle Bottom bag from when Abby-Sue was a baby but it is looking a little loved and I have this bag on my mommy radar. I love a beautiful design wherever it may be and this certainly fits the bill. xoxo Agnes

My home tour at Houzz

2011-03-01T12:02:00.000-06:00

I added a new wigit to the side bar of my blog today! It is a house tour over at Houzz.com. If you haven't explored Houzz before, wait until you have a full day because I guarantee, you will be on there for hours. Do you like my home tour? :) xoxo Agnes

Milkfly

2011-02-28T08:38:00.000-06:00

I was really impressed when I saw Milkfly on Etsy, isn't the felt art quality top notch?

I can't wait to see what else Huong has up her sleeve for the future, can you? xoxo Agnes

Birthdays everywhere

2011-02-22T08:17:00.000-06:00

Happy 3rd birthday Abby-Sue. It's been such a lot of fun, can't wait for another tomorrow with you sweet girl.

Happy 2nd birthday Knock.Knocking. I have met some of the most amazing people on my journey and continue to grow in ways I never imagined. xoxo Agnes

Friday is Pin Day

2011-02-18T08:22:00.000-06:00

Wow, is it Friday already? I have decided that Fridays will be the day I share some of the lovelies I have collected over on Pinterest with all y'all. First up is this cute little ice cream truck. Nuff said.

There is something really magical about this bird cage. I think it might be the worn white wall background against the pops of hand painted color that really stands out to me.

I'd bake a thing or two in this blender, no problemo.

I'm really feeling the Babar posters in this sweet room, aren't you? Perfect for any gender and so classic.

If there was just one photo to summarize how I am feeling right now, this would be it.
xoxo Agnes

Coming Home Outfit and Dr. Seuss

2011-02-17T11:02:00.000-06:00

I promise not to turn this blog into a baby product rambling session day after day but give me some slack; I have been holed up at home with pregnancy on the brain for so long that I am starting to crack under the pressure of darling baby finds. I have Robbie's coming home outfit all organized. His hat, his onesie.... his sister's shoes. I think this munching idea will make for a fun project with Abby-Sue while we wait for his arrival.

xoxo Agnes

Kokeshi Doll Cupcake Topper How To

2011-02-14T11:26:00.001-06:00

Here is a fun Valentines Day project that my daughter and I crafted together today and I thought it would be fun to share. It is easy and you may already have a lot of the items lying around your home already. The perfect thing about these cupcake toppers is that you can make them in any style or color for any occasion.

1. You are going to need two sizes of holed wooden balls available at any craft store. You will also need a wooden dowel that fits into the hole of the largest wooden ball. Cut this dowel down to a manageable cake pick size and glue the pom pom hair balls to the large ball and the large ball onto the dowel.

2. Use water based acrylic food safe paints in the colors of your choice and make sure they are well mixed and double coated when you apply them to the wooden base.

3. If you have never painted on a curved wooden surface before, you might want to try painting the face on a flat surface before you attempt the ball. My all time favorite place for Kokeshi dolls is the wonderful Wunderkind on Etsy. I am constantly inspired by Alex and although my painting will never be as beautiful as hers, I have fun trying to imitate the classic Kokeshi doll style. Once the paint is thoroughly dry, finish it will a food safe glaze.

4. Time to dress up our little miss for her date!!! I created a felt heart and modgepodged it with glitter and added a little sparkling scarf and pair of pearl earrings but the possibilities are endless. Just be sure if you are working with glitter that you really use the modge podge well and that there is no residual glitter because food + glitter = not good eats.

Have fun with these; each bag of wooden balls and dowel stakes you purchase at the craft store make quite a few of these lovelies so get busy and let me know what you come up with!
xoxo Agnes

Pinterest = Pinning Things Of Great Interest

2011-02-11T08:23:00.000-06:00

I've jumped on the Pinterest train! I am LOVING it so far. Here are my tops favorites for the week. I've decided on these bird cookies as the treat I will leave at the nurses' station when I birth little Robbie.

I've had her shop as one of my favorites on Etsy forever but really, isn't Yalipaz's work beyond the brilliant? I love her artistic mix of mediums and her women are dainty and retro.

Of course the rainbow cake has been made, blogged and eaten everywhere. I especially love the way this cake was blogged about and am going to attempt it for Abby-Sue's 3rd birthday next week. Also..... 3 years old?? What? How did that happen? My baby is getting so big.

House, made completely out of paper. Eeek. Enough said, click on this link and read every last bit you can about this amazing artist. That's all for this week darlings! See you next!
xoxo Agnes