Swaplet

I received the most wonderful package last week from Mouse as part of Amanda's Valentine's swap. True to theme, she used a glorious amount of felt hearts and strings to cushion the goodies she sent: a pocket mirror with an R initial, a Playing for Change CD, and a feathery valentine. Perfect!
The gifts were spot-on, of course; I've been listening to CDs lately since I purchased a car, and I am constantly making use of random reflective surfaces to check myself out. I doubt my appreciation for the feathered card needs any explanation.

Taschen

It's been awhile, I know. I was in Rome last week(!) and was way too busy taking photos of marble ruins to pick up a computer. While I was there I happened upon Taschen, a publisher attempting to democratize the art book market. The books' spreads are ridiculously stunning; even better, they're sold in the US!

Polaroids, snow

These polaroids evoke thoughts of the windy, frigid weather that has been plaguing the east coast for the past month. The landscapes are particularly beautiful right now but I'm not sure how much longer I can stand the scarves, chapped lips, and thermals.

moominsean on flickr

Reasons I need this poster

-I am studying Computer Science,
-I am minoring in Internet Studies,
-I lived in California last summer and fell in love with it,
-My living room walls need more color.

Go here to view it a little bigger--the blurb on the poster is all about the invention of the internet! Or to see all of the other gorgeous options.

via Design Crush

Tattoo lust revisited

Every time I come across something paisley-patterned my heart aches for that damn tattoo. I've wanted it for such a long time now but can't seem to take the plunge. On the plus side, at least this skirt would be removable on the off chance that I grow tired of the pattern..

Elves

The Icelandic Elf School, Álfaskólinn, "teaches about the hidden people and the 13 different kinds of elves that inhabit the country of Iceland". According to Wikipedia, the existence of elves is a relatively common belief in the country.

The best part? The school has certificate programs so that anyone can participate and earn a degree in as little as half a day.

photo via the Reykjavik Grapevine

A Tale of Two Cities

These doubly-exposed photos from the flickr pool A Tale of Two Cities are really fascinating--one photographer shoots a whole roll of film and then sends it off to an entirely different part of the world for someone else to shoot over it! I love how vibrant the colors are.

000018, sonne

Cypress Mountain

Have you guys heard about the mild weather Vancouver's been having? The winter olympics are set to begin in 15 days and yet one of the mountains used for some of the events has barely any snow! Apparently they're going to cart in snow from the top of the mountain. Of course, many of the events will be held at Whistler, where the weather is much cooler.
I'm still ridiculously excited for these olympics--I watched about 50 hours of hockey over my winter break, so I think I'm just about ready to watch the games!

Cypress Sunset by HDR Cafe

Spool No. 72

Wish I had known about this store before the holidays, everything in it is perfect!
..Although I wouldn't be able to wear any of these beauties until May anyways.

Cheddar Cheese and Onion Pie

The tree branches outside are currently decorated with thick icicles; therefore, I believe that it is still appropriate to indulge in hearty winter food.

HELP HAITI RISE

Super-soft American Apparel cotton for a decent price PLUS helping a very worthy cause? I've already ordered mine.

via Black Eiffel

Waiting

I like to make plans. I spend quite a bit of time compulsively day-dreaming, convincing myself of experiences I need to have. It's been particularly bad lately and I have the worst sort of wanderlust. If only my bank account would comply!

exploding dog via Maria

Ditzy print

Quite possibly the most adorable piece of clothing American Eagle has ever stocked. I'll wear it with strappy leather sandals all summer long.
..Is anyone else itching for warm weather?

Things I like

A tanktop with a zippered back, pretty earrings, a tapestry, and a canvas bag. I've been looking for a cool tapestry for awhile; the bitter cold necessitates an extra layer of insulation over my bedroom window! All from Urban Outfitters.

On Resolutions

My, last year was BIG. HUGE. Gigantic, even.
I lived alone in California all summer, got my first job related to my education, realized that I could pull off a short haircut, bought my very first car, learned how to date for the first time after a long relationship, and survived many other day-to-day trials and achievements.
For once, I don't have any big goals for the new year. In 2009 I learned that I had the ability to get myself through nearly anything, and this year I'm just hoping to keep that in mind at all times. I'll be graduating this December, a semester ahead of schedule; rather than resolving to do anything in particular, I'm hoping to have this same grade of confidence in myself and my abilities a year from now.

blue by clairekramer