sea & jae

where oh where

2009-11-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

did November go? I'm so sorry I have been so obviously absent lately. I have quite a bit going on right now.......tis the season, right?! If you've been on pins and needles waiting for me.....check out sea's latest work.

all three pincushions available here

Boo!

2009-11-01T17:11:00.004-05:00

I know....Halloween is over, but I bet I scared you anyway...being as I've been so scarce. I'm here....just have several loose ends to tie up. I need this week to see if I can get these things done. See you soon and Happy November.

image credit

fyi

2009-10-21T08:51:00.003-04:00

There are several additions to sea's etsy account. Take a look here.

finally.

2009-10-19T08:49:00.003-04:00

It has finally happened. It is actually cold here this morning. Somewhere in the 50's it seems. Now, it won't be that all day and it won't even be that for long. However, for now I'm going to enjoy the crisp fresh autumn air. This morning I wore my black cashmere wrap....which I love. After all, it's black and it's cashmere....what's not to love. I did go here this morning though to see if there was anything else to love. I'm thinking aqua and cashmere works just as nicely.

available here

reincarnated

2009-10-13T08:35:00.005-04:00

Typical promotional and marketing tools are not something I generally appreciate. However, these pencils made from recycled cd cases are write up my alley......cue the eye rolling.

found here

the longest weekend

2009-10-09T07:47:00.003-04:00

According to a book my daughter brought home from school yesterday, the longest word in the English language is 1913 letters. It is the scientific name for tryptophan synthetase A protein, an enzyme that has 267 amino acids.

methionylglutaminylarginyltyrosylglutamylserylleucylphenylalanylalanyl-
glutaminylleucyllysylglutamylarginyllysylglutamylglycylalanylphenylalanyl-
valylprolylphenylalanylvalylthreonylleucylglycylaspartylprolylglycyl-
isoleucylglutamylglutaminylserylleucyllysylisoleucylaspartylthreonylleucyl-
isoleucylglutamylalanylglycylalanylaspartylalanylleucylglutamylleucyl-
glycylisoleucylprolylphenylalanylserylaspartylprolylleucylalanylaspartyl-
glycylprolylthreonylisoleucylglutaminylasparaginylalanylthreonylleucyl-
arginylalanylphenylalanylalanylalanylglycylvalylthreonylprolylalanyl-
glutaminylcysteinylphenylalanylglutamylmethionylleucylalanylleucyl-
isoleucylarginylglutaminyllysylhistidylprolylthreonylisoleucylprolyl-
isoleucylglycylleucylleucylmethionyltyrosylalanylasparaginylleucylvalyl-
phenylalanylasparaginyllysylglycylisoleucylaspartylglutamylphenylalanyl-
tyrosylalanylglutaminylcysteinylglutamyllysylvalylglycylvalylaspartylseryl-
valylleucylvalylalanylaspartylvalylprolylvalylglutaminylglutamylseryl-
alanylprolylphenylalanylarginylglutaminylalanylalanylleucylarginylhistidyl-
asparaginylvalylalanylprolylisoleucylphenylalanylisoleucylcysteinylprolyl-
prolylaspartylalanylaspartylaspartylaspartylleucylleucylarginylglutaminyl-
isoleucylalanylseryltyrosylglycylarginylglycyltyrosylthreonyltyrosylleucyl-
leucylserylarginylalanylglycylvalylthreonylglycylalanylglutamylasparaginyl-
arginylalanylalanylleucylprolylleucylasparaginylhistidylleucylvalylalanyl-
lysylleucyllysylglutamyltyrosylasparaginylalanylalanylprolylprolylleucyl-
glutaminylglycylphenylalanylglycylisoleucylserylalanylprolylaspartyl-
glutaminylvalyllysylalanylalanylisoleucylaspartylalanylglycylalanylalanyl-
glycylalanylisoleucylserylglycylserylalanylisoleucylvalyllysylisoleucyl-
isoleucylglutamylglutaminylhistidylasparaginylisoleucylglutamylprolyl-
glutamyllysylmethionylleucylalanylalanylleucyllysylvalylphenylalanylvalyl-
glutaminylprolylmethionyllysylalanylalanylthreonylarginylserine

Use that in a sentence. Happy weekend. I hope it feels equally as long.

mobile office

2009-10-07T20:18:00.005-04:00

These days we have fast and convenient options at every turn. Which is why this simple yet highly creatively office in a jar makes perfect sense to me.

available here

blow your own horn.

2009-10-05T08:12:00.003-04:00

I'm always a fan of traditional items made with new materials. I would like to make tons and tons of these party blowers. After all, this sort of thing always has more impact if you go over the top in abundance. Consider making them in just black and white prints for Halloween.

instructions here via design crush

the keys to the insane asylum.

2009-10-01T08:11:00.006-04:00

I'm discovering all kinds of things on etsy for Halloween. Like yesterday's post, I think these laser cut keys would be just the right embellishment to a goodie bag. However, I really like the thought of putting them on a large key ring and hanging them from the front door this month.

available here

still getting you in the spirit.

2009-09-30T09:11:00.002-04:00

How about these to hang off a Halloween goodie bag?

available here

ghastly.

2009-09-27T20:30:00.007-04:00

Halloween will be here soon. A set of 4 macabre notebooks just might get you into the spirit....pun intended. available here

Friday finally popped up.

2009-09-25T08:11:00.006-04:00

I've been doing some research for this year's holiday gift guide.....you could probably tell since I've been talking about wrapping packages this week. Anyway, along with that comes setting the table. These placemats that were inspired from children's pop up books, would definitely add to your table setting. However, I think you could cut the placemat down and add it to the top of a package just as easily. They each have a space to write a name on them. I am partial to the vespa....always wanted one, but Florida's roads are far from vespa friendly.

available here

Happy Friday everyone....hope your weekend is filled with the wind in your hair.

naturally tagged.

2009-09-24T08:26:00.005-04:00

So, after posting the wooden tags, I got to wondering what I could find on etsy along the same lines. Look at this cute little bundle.....imagine these gracing the top of your packages this fall or Christmas with a sprig of greenery.

available here

for the years that slide by.

2009-09-22T06:25:00.003-04:00

A wood wall calendar...art that looks great and functions....good choice.

available here

clean or complex

2009-09-20T20:07:00.006-04:00

We all know that receiving a gift that has been elaborately wrapped is fun to open. However, that doesn't mean simplicity doesn't have its place. Love these.

available here

Do you use gift tags?

eye candy.

2009-09-17T08:06:00.005-04:00

Just in time for the holidays.....yes, they are quickly approaching.....we have new lollipop flavors. Not just any flavors, but pear and pomegranate. I know....what could be more perfect. I can hardly wait for them to arrive. We already know they make a huge visual impact.

credit

As if they weren't fabulous enough, the ones we carry are handmade using only natural flavors and ingredients.

me.

2009-09-16T07:10:00.000-04:00

I was given an award recently. A literary award you ask? No. Mother of the Year award? No. A national journalism award? Nope...not that either. A meme award...yes...that's the one! Never heard of it. Well, it's a blog award that asks me to reveal seven little quirky tidbits about me me me. You can quit reading now if you like and come back tomorrow. How was I bestowed this prestigious award? I have Chloe from finding design to thank. She was incredibly kind in her nomination. Chloe...I'm so glad you find so much inspiration here. Here's my acceptance speech....cue the commercials.

1. I had 13 years of piano lessons as a kid and I rarely play.

2. I have extremely curly hair that I resist the urge to straighten....well, sometimes the urge is to strong to fight.

3. I live a life without added chemicals. Yes, that means in everything.....soaps, household cleaners, food....all of it.

4. I love a good road trip.

5. I have tried and tried, but I don't like beans. That means kidney beans, chili beans, and black beans. Yes, I know how good they are for you, but to me...they're beetles....crunchy shells with squishy insides....sorry, but I can't get past it.

6. I don't like horror movies. The senseless violence actually infuriates me. That and the fact that I'm too visual. Can't get it out of my head....nightmares for weeks.

7. I grew up in an enormous old Victorian home in the Midwest. My brothers and I now joke about how spooky many parts of it were. I never knew they were spooked too until we all admitted it as adults. Hmmm...wonder if that has anything to do with number 6?

Now, as part of the rules of the meme award, I'm supposed to list 7 blogs that I feel should be nominated. I'll post those another day soon. This was already difficult to write...enough about me...I'd love to hear a little something about you.

stuck up guests.

2009-09-14T08:11:00.006-04:00

Decorative tape isn't a new idea, but these designer versions would sure help at a party where the host is really stuck on dress code.

available here

whoooo's thinking of you.

2009-09-10T08:07:00.007-04:00

Not all gifts have to come in packages, these days one could show up in your inbox. Remember when receiving a hand written note in your mail box was a big deal to make up for all the junk mail? Wouldn't it be a treat to receive a gift in your email to make up for all the....well, junk mail? These little paper owls can be sent via PDF to your inbox to print and make. Aren't you the wise old friend?

found here via lmnop

flown in to help nest.

2009-09-09T08:04:00.006-04:00

This sweet little chickadee would make a sweet little baby gift. When Lily was a baby I had a big branch as her curtain rod. He could have sat right there and had his bird's eye view.

from here...along with other colors

It seems the aqua fix continued today.

aqua fix.

2009-09-08T08:22:00.003-04:00

I was needing mine....where do you go for inspiration and eye candy when you need yours?

here

friday traffic

2009-09-04T08:22:00.004-04:00

I know the posts have been a little sporadic lately. I'm working on some new things for sea and jae and everything worth while takes longer than you expect it to. I hope to be revealing things soon. In the meantime, have a memorable weekend as we make this transition into fall.

May all your traffic jams this labor day weekend be as interesting and exotic as this one. Photo credit belongs here.

gilligan's island? looney tunes? superman?

2009-09-02T08:30:00.003-04:00

I've seen a lot of blogs writing about the unexpected in interiors lately. A poster from their favorite childhood superhero or a cartoon is an easy way to transfer the unexpected into a gift. I do think it should be large in scale to make the impact we are looking for here.

image credit belongs here

I'm wondering who or what would be on your wall?

mondays need liquid fuel

2009-08-31T05:55:00.000-04:00

This is the time of year when I always want to be up north. The crisp air and the changing leaves have it hands down over Florida's tiresome humidity. I love a warm drink and a cool day. Pair these flasks with a liquid fuel and give it with an invitation to a picnic or a tailgating party. Baileys and hot chocolate anyone or how about coffee and rum or you tell me....what should I put in your flask?

more styles found here

for him.

2009-08-27T08:19:00.005-04:00

It's no secret men can be difficult......to buy for that is. However, these towels would provide something nicer than a dry shave. The dry wit we can't do anything about.

available here

i'm wondering

2009-08-25T08:36:00.005-04:00

I have a question.....actually, a couple. It is the time of year when I need to be putting together the holiday gift guide. For those of you who saw last year's, I would love some feedback before I embark on this task again. For those of you who didn't, you can click on it in the right side column if you would like to see what I'm talking about. I'm wondering if you liked it with the pages devoted to the recipients like it was or if it could be done in a more general layout. I was thinking about changing things up a bit, but you know the saying....if it's not broke, don't fix it. Let me know.....I can handle constructive criticism if you feel the need. As you can imagine, it is a tremendous undertaking, but I really want it to evolve in a forward motion.

Okay, secondly....and less importantly......have you been checking out the photos on bing? I love google. My kids ask a question and my standard answer is...google it. However, the daily photos on bing are nothing short of amazing.

carhenge in western nebraska....credit and image here

belongings

2009-08-24T08:39:00.005-04:00

I've posted about bookplates before, but here is a cute little set all ready to go. You could give these with another book or you could stick one of these in the book you are giving and have extras on hand for other gifts. I like a book that has been signed by the person who gave it to me with a little message. Do you sign the books you give?

available here

if wishes were fishes.

2009-08-21T08:06:00.003-04:00

May your weekend be filled with everything you wish for....

The wishbones are a classic and a favorite from our site.

time in a box.

2009-08-20T08:12:00.003-04:00

I wouldn't mind watching time slip through my fingers if I had this clock. It is so much less obtrusive than the clock on the cable box or a blackberry. A clock is a very unexpected gift to give, but I think you could pull it off if you gave it to someone you are trying to make more time for. Are you a clock person? People either have no clocks or many......what do you think that says about our personalities??

available here

running on empty

2009-08-19T08:31:00.003-04:00

I'm running way behind this morning.....and it's only 9 something. I'm feeling like my day is filled with things I have to get done, but what I need to be thinking is that my day is like these metal boxes I've long adored......they may look empty, but they're filled with possibilities.

available here

interior inspiration

2009-08-18T08:15:00.007-04:00

I haven't done an interior shot that inspired a gift in awhile, but when I saw this image I immediately found the inspiration I needed. Want a gift idea for someone who really needs to take some time for themselves? A bunch of bolster pillows in a tote would make a not so subtle statement. Pick their favorite color or choose all white.....after all, we are encouraging serene moments.

I saw this image of Dana Gallagher's at Seleta's....who saw it at Desire to Inspire....don't you just love how the internet works...

back to school...better with bacon.

2009-08-17T08:31:00.004-04:00

Since we celebrate the last day of school, I'm thinking the return to school might receive a better reception if we celebrated it too......i know, a bit of a stretch, but still eases the sting. So, I think we'll surprise the kids in the morning with their favorite breakfast. The husband makes the best whole wheat pancakes. We'll include some natural applewood smoked bacon and they'll come running down the stairs at first smell.

image found here

What would make you run down the stairs on a morning that you'd rather be pulling the covers over your head?

the fly on the wall is me.

2009-08-14T08:14:00.006-04:00

I've decided that this morning I'm going to be hovering around some of the blogs that I so enjoy reading, but haven't had the time lately. Have a terrific weekend everyone.....where will you be hovering?

image credit

clean and naked

2009-08-13T08:02:00.004-04:00

I'm not sure if I ever told you, but the husband has his own cleaning business, thenakedjanitor. No...he isn't really naked.... He cleans both residential and commercial without using any harmful chemicals.....which is where the naked comes in. I can just picture him carrying this bag filled with his supplies......much like an on call bag. I'd like to have thenakedjanitor printed across the side for extra impact. It has that clean look that would complete his image so nicely.

available here

For those of you without nakedjanitor's for husband's, I can also see this filled with firewood or magazines. To keep in the green theme, it would be a very stylish market bag, too. Tell me, how would you use it?

unbridled

2009-08-12T08:18:00.004-04:00

I was following up on the planners you suggested yesterday when one thing led to another.....tracie's comment led me to laurel denise which led me here.......when i saw these bridle leather camp bracelets. We've established the fact that i like opposites....juxtapositions of style....masculine and feminine. Anyway, who doesn't like a monogram? This would make a charming little gift for the leather lover in your life....and you can't beat the price! I would wear it with my multi-strand pearl bracelet wrapped around it.....it's nothing if it isn't versatile.

2010 is coming around the corner.

2009-08-11T07:39:00.004-04:00

I'm curious.....how do you manage your calendar? Are you an agenda or day planner type of person where you still write things down or are you someone who enters everything into their phone and syncs to the computer? Where do you put your kids schedules? I prefer to write things down and to be able to carry it around, but I am forever struggling with just the right planner. It is getting to be that time of year again....you know, the time of year when you have to buy next year's calendar or you won't find one when it is actually next year. So, I really want to hear it.......what do you like to use to manage your calendar? I figure since we established yesterday that we all are very aware of the details, maybe just maybe, you could solve my yearly agenda dilemma.

printable calendar available here

daydreaming rocker

2009-08-10T08:22:00.004-04:00

I think I might have ended up in more trouble with these pencils, but a bunch tied together would make a back to school gift for someone....well.....less than excited about the return to the classroom.

available here

Do you think they just had the hand model pretend to be left handed so that the pencils could be on the right side of the frame? I get accused of being too aware of the details at times....did you notice the left hand......do you drive yourself crazy in the details too? please say yes....it would be nice to know i'm not the only one tormenting myself on a Monday morning.

randomness...

2009-08-06T20:32:00.006-04:00

I've been known to labor over words....blog not always included...the words have to come out fast and furious here, but anyone who knows me will vouch for me. I saw this image last night and I started thinking about names. Our names are the words that define us the most, but we don't pick them. I have been told many times by all kinds of people that my name sounds like a stage name....my last name is shannon for those who didn't know....and technically my first name is jodi....jae comes from the first initial being spelled out. Do you think much about your name? If your name were as bad as this one...would you change it?

image credit from this inspiring photographer via the bedlam of beefy

capturing seasons

2009-08-05T08:11:00.005-04:00

Have you done any canning this summer? Is that even something you do? I haven't done it for a long time, but the image below is calling out to me.....also, a great thing to have on hand for a friend for a little something when the wintry weather has taken its toll. My aunt cans green beans from her garden that are amazing. What makes them so amazing? She pickles them with fresh dill. Yes, that's right....dilled green beans. They are the perfect compliment to a bloody mary. Imagine taking a jar of those to a brunch with friends. Yum!

image credit and canning jars here

swimming in schools

2009-08-04T08:03:00.003-04:00

It's not just that I'm thinking of school (starts again Aug. 18 here), that drew me in to these fish sculptures. I think it is more about what is missing and implied that I appreciate. And it certainly doesn't hurt that they are white.

I've probably said it here before, but when you need to thank someone, add a little creative wording to the tag for maximum impact.......

there are a lot of fish in the sea, but thanks for choosing me.

How do you like to thank someone?

fish sculpture available here

out of the box

2009-08-03T07:57:00.003-04:00

Wooden boxes are a great way to present a gift. Tie a beautiful simple ribbon around it and you have a package that anyone would be curious and excited to open. Need an idea of what to put inside? I picture this one filled with fragrant organic tea bags. Pick ones with lavender and you could even go as far as adding a sprig of it under the bow.

box found here

today's the day.

2009-07-30T08:18:00.003-04:00

They are finally coming home today! I can hardly focus. I have instructions to stand at least 20 feet from the car so that my youngest can run and jump into my arms....as if I'm doing her the favor. My extremely talented photographer sister-in-law took this while we were all in Minneapolis for the wedding. It pretty much sums it all up today.

the best part of morning.

2009-07-29T08:11:00.005-04:00

I know I've said it before, but I feel like I would be doing you an injustice if I didn't say it again. This makes the best coffee E.V.E.R.!

available here

I'm nothing without my morning coffee....you?

frozen smile...

2009-07-28T07:54:00.005-04:00

I've seen lots of ice cubes lately that deserved a second look......but these....these just might require a third look and a stare.

available here

cup or cone...

2009-07-27T08:36:00.005-04:00

Need a hostess gift? These white porcelain ice cream cones would be just the thing to take a formal all white dinner party and loosen it up at dessert. Don't get me wrong....I generally gravitate to serving on all white....I just like the idea of shocking everyone with something so simple and innocent. There certainly wouldn't be any dripping out of the bottom of the cone. Are you a cup or a cone ice cream eater?

available here

this time luck worked for the rabbit...

2009-07-23T22:01:00.004-04:00

Someone tucked a real four leaf clover into a wedding card for my nephew and his new wife. Clever idea wouldn't you say? I was wondering if they actually found it and how long they had it....it had definitely been pressed for awhile. I suppose that is typical of me to want to know the story behind everything. The whole idea of wishing someone luck with one of the traditional icons made me think of this pewter bunny I've been meaning to photograph. His over sized feet say lots of luck.

With any luck, I'll make it to the beach this weekend. With any luck, what will you be doing?

If anyone is interested in this lucky bunny, send me an email since we only have the one.

the gravitational pull.

2009-07-23T07:49:00.004-04:00

Speaking of hearts...I really like the hidden meaning behind this piece. I'm not sure if it was the artist's intention or not to have a double meaning since she makes all her pieces of glass, but I appreciate the irony that a heart is easily broken. Choose the blue one and the obvious sentiment of being blue without you is implied.

I also sense the pull when I see shells. I know you've seen these rings by Mesi Jilly. Beautiful...something so simple and yet so intricate. With jeans and a white tank, the summery ocean is always on your mind.

If you want to see another long time favorite of mine from the artist, Natalia Brilli, you'll have to go here and then go to collections...then spring summer 2006. Look for the shell necklaces wrapped in leather. You can't miss them...they are stunning. Sorry I can't get the images to download, but believe me it is well worth the look if you haven't seen them. Okay, now I want to know besides for hearts, what other objects do you sense the pull from?

i'm back

2009-07-21T20:53:00.007-04:00

After coming home from my nephew's wedding and catching up with the kids for the weekend, I feel like my heart is full. The only thing better than wearing it on my sleeve, would be to have it around my neck. It did break a bit again to come home without them. In my heart of heart, I know they are having a fantastic time and I love that.

Don't overlook mending a heart with a heart. This piece could certainly ease some ache. In fact, I don't know how a four inch hand carved wooden heart couldn't?

fly away...

2009-07-16T08:07:00.003-04:00

The husband and I are flying up to Minneapolis extremely early tomorrow morning. We are headed to my nephew's wedding and to meet up with the kids...yea....for several days. It will be a whirlwind weekend filled with family. I'll be back to blogging on Wednesday. Be safe and talk to you soon.

intriguing image found here

is summer oil and water for you?

2009-07-14T07:59:00.005-04:00

I really like how the oils in this photo look so sculptural. Which made me think grouping them would make a nice housewarming gift. Just write on the tag something like....

wanting your new home to work like a well-oiled machine.

the credit for this beautiful image belongs here

It seems to me that everyone is burning the midnight oil these days. Are you...or are you finding time to do all the things you wanted this summer?

iou...

2009-07-13T07:41:00.005-04:00

an uplifting post. I have always liked iou cards. It's a clever way to make an idea tangible. This set would be cute to use tucked into a card, or on top of a package, or even as a whole set for a very lucky recipient. They were designed for kids, but I don't see one that I wouldn't like to receive. In fact, staying in my pyjamas all day sounds quite appealing. Which one would you like?

available here

quiet anguish

2009-07-10T06:12:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow morning very early my kids leave on a road trip. They are going to be traveling across the country seeing all sorts of people and places. They are extremely excited so I am doing everything to keep my feelings to myself. I have never really been away from them and I'm getting quite a bit anxious about how quiet it will be without them around. The husband and I will be flying to their destination in a week to meet up with them and go to my nephew's wedding, but in the meantime...it is going to be a different house....one I am sure I will not like. I am going to hurry off today to get all their packing done as early as possible so I can spend some time with them. I hope your weekend is less full of emptiness.

image found here

p.s. thank you joyce! i'm so glad you loved the idea and that the girls have loved receiving them. i'm honored to have graced your pages.

treasure hunt gifts...

2009-07-09T07:31:00.005-04:00

My nephew is getting married soon and I wanted to surprise Lily with a little bag to carry at the wedding. Since she was just a couple of years old, she has always loved purses. I found an adorable little metal bag that I took home to her. I didn't even wrap it....it wasn't that kind of little gift. It would be an understatement to say that she flipped for it. I decided I had better clean it up a little bit so she didn't get her dress dirty when she carried it. You ready....that's when I saw the silver stamp and the fact that it is signed and dated.....you ready....1918! I'm not telling you what I paid for it....I kind of prefer it that you like me. Tell me, have you ever found a little gift that turned into an amazing find...the kind you usually only hear others tell tales about?

good morning granola

2009-07-08T06:30:00.000-04:00

I saw this tasty looking granola yesterday morning. My first thought after yum was that it would make a fun gift for any mom friends a few days before school starts up again to ease the craziness of the first week. For some presentation, just add a custom labels to the top with a ribbon all the way around. Go get the recipe here.

speaking of witty humor and design...

2009-07-06T22:38:00.010-04:00

Something really pulls me to this photo.

It could be that its all white or the fact that it takes me back to my lifeguard days. Either way, it really appeals to me and I would love to have it framed large and hung in a bathroom. For that matter, I would even love to hang the life preserver in a bathroom. A bit witty and unexpected goes far with me.

I've had this image bookmarked for awhile. (and if anyone knows where I found it, please let me know so I can credit)
It's the blue sky and the fact that we have no idea how high up she is that intrigues me. I like to put something unexpected into design. I think someone in our house needs a life preserver. Too bad I didn't think of it for the anniversary....I could have easily come up with some really corny lines to go with it for the husband.....yes, you're thinking the same ones I am....I did say corny. I can make whatever sacrificies I need to in order to get that hanging right above the tub. Do you like design that has unexpected signs of humor in it?
life preserver image credit belongs here

i'm grinning...

2009-07-05T20:29:00.015-04:00

I know the customary thing to do if you have been blogged about is to post a link and a thank you on your own blog. I am a little hesitant to link to the latest mention. You see g.'s post at ticklishfromadistance had me blushing so much that I wouldn't be surprised at all if your screens looked a little pinker this morning. She also stole my ability to use words....quite a feat if you know me at all. It really isn't playing fair if you steal some one's words when they are trying to say thank you. So here it is simply...thanks for the mention g. I really am thrilled that you love your bag that much! It means much more to me than I seem to be able to express. And I've decided this will be my philosophy today.

And while I'm saying thank you for the mentions, I have to thank Heidi over at faboolosity. You see, she won the sculptural pencil....how fitting for a graphic designer. The fact that she doesn't want to let it go is very touching.

I am quite behind on updating the thanks for the mention link on my sidebar....as well as, my blog links so if you would like to be included let me know......Have a great Monday everyone. Go check out these two blogs....that is if you like witty humor and good design.

image found here

celebrating independence??

2009-07-03T07:50:00.006-04:00

Happy 4th of July! While you're celebrating your independence, the husband and I will be celebrating our lack of. Tomorrow is our 13th wedding anniversary. Hope your weekend is filled with love, fireworks, and picnics.

image found here

byob

2009-07-02T07:11:00.003-04:00

I've been all about the picnic this week and I just can't move on without throwing in a thirst quenching beverage. Have you ever had beer with lemonade? You may also know it as a shandy. Pour some good beer over ice (or just be sure your beer is very cold) and add anywhere from 1/4 to 1/2 of the glass with fresh lemonade.....refreshing. Tie it together in a picnic blanket or put them in a basket and you even have yourself a hostess gift that everyone enjoys......leave the blanket or basket for the hostess of course.

image found here

gift wrapped salads...

2009-07-01T07:20:00.006-04:00

Since I am in the mood to share picnic recipes, you have to have this one. You could wrap this one in a box and tie it with a bow and they might think it was the best gift they ever received...it's that good.

Blue Cheese Coleslaw

2lbs. napa cabbage

1/2 lb. blue cheese (or gorgonzola)

3/4 c. cider vinegar

1/4 tsp. dry mustard

1 tsp. celery seeds

2 cloves garlic

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. white pepper

2 T sugar

1/4 c. minced white onion

3/4 c. vegetable oil

mix coleslaw and blue cheese and let sit for at least an hour or overnight (you want the flavors to mix) mix remaining for dressing. whisk. add just before serving....you don't always need all the dressing be careful not to get it too wet. serves 6-8

I don't have an image of this to post for you....you'll just have to trust me and try it for yourself, but here is a place I would go to the end of the universe for with my coleslaw and watermelon in my picnic basket.

image found here
Where would you love to go to picnic this weekend?

sweet and salty

2009-06-30T08:06:00.004-04:00

It would be fascinating to take a census of the number of picnics happening simultaneously around the country this weekend and what they would be serving. One thing I know I will be making is a watermelon feta salad. If you haven't tried this combination of flavors, you don't know what you're missing. The recipe is extremely simple. Just cut up a seedless watermelon into cubes or square slices...add some crumbled feta. I like to lay it out on a platter and drizzle it with olive oil and some fresh lime juice. Then sprinkle some fresh thyme over the top. I've heard where people add black olives or sliced red onions or even basil. I like to serve it next to some greens.

image Martha Stewart....her recipe is here

What is the one thing you know you will be serving?

star spangled celebrations

2009-06-28T17:42:00.006-04:00

I imagine I am probably one of the first....if not the first.....to post pictures from a fourth of July celebration. Don't ask me the reason, but a little town in our area always has their fireworks the weekend before the actual holiday. I love a good fireworks display....I'll tell you why soon.....and these did not disappoint. They were quite spectacular really. I found this quote and really like its sentiment.

Did you know that fireworks date back to 12th century China where they were used to scare off evil spirits with their loud sounds and also to pray for happiness and prosperity. If you are looking for a little way to add some star worthy sparkle to your fourth celebration, don't forget about our star sparklers. What do you enjoy about fireworks?

chocolate...my drug of choice.

2009-06-25T06:14:00.002-04:00

I'm trying to appreciate this and even understand it. Have you seen it? Whiffing...am I getting that old that I think this sounds like something kids should NOT be doing? If you haven't seen it, it is the new way to eat chocolate, by breathing it. Le Whif was developed by a Harvard professor and a biomedical engineer (I swear)...and is the first inhalable chocolate.My normal test for a product is could I plan a party around it? I'm not sure when chewing became such a nuisance, but I know I could plan a party around it. I have to know your thoughts on this.

first discovered here

wrap it up....

2009-06-24T06:00:00.002-04:00

This image makes me want to skip all other obligations for a day and just wrap wrap wrap. Sometimes it's nice to color coordinate the wrapping with the gift. I have a hard time not thinking of food when I look at these.....like cotton candy wrapped in the pink paper or oranges in the orange paper or just ripe strawberries with the red paper. Oh, and dark chocolate for the brown and lemon drops with the yellow. What would you wrap in these?

wrapping paper from here

we got one....

2009-06-23T06:01:00.001-04:00

A few days ago, I showed you the fairy houses my daughter and her friend made. I knew they would open up the possibility for a fairy to visit, but I didn't know it would be the fairy that flits about our blogs that we all know and miss so much. The imaginary friend that mixes words magically wherever she goes. You see....she must have quietly flown in and hid out amongst the mushrooms for a moment. I didn't even know she was there until tonight when technology interrupted the magic and showed me some of the flurries she left behind. Thank you....thank you....thank you for the kirtsy.....and for allowing me to see your magic again if only for a moment.

fairy flurries found here

survival cases

2009-06-22T06:04:00.000-04:00

My kids are going on a major road trip in a couple of weeks. I'm thinking that a travel case filled with all sorts of snacks and activities would be a fun surprise. I'm even going to sneak in some little love notes. One of these travel suitcases from etsy would be the perfect jumping off point for a road trip survival gift.

found here

I love a good road trip....are you a flier or a driver? What would you include in your survival case?

magical mushrooms

2009-06-18T21:07:00.008-04:00

Tonight Lily's friend is spending the night....one last hurrah for awhile. The two of them....and one other friend.....have spent this whole school year talking about capturing fairies. They have spent time in each other's yards gathering tree bark, berries, and leaves to attract fairies to their make shift homes. So, tonight they made real fairy houses. We started with some sculpey clay and made mushrooms. I had them place long pins in the stems so they would stand up later. They painted them and placed them in pieces of moss in jars. If one of them is lucky enough to have the rare opportunity to possess a fairy, I think they'll be very happy in their sweet home.

By the time they finished the sun was setting and it was hard to get enough light without getting too much.

These would make a magical party favor for a girl's fairy birthday party. Tie a ribbon around the top, make custom round stickers for the lids, and include a little bag of glitter for fairy dust.
Hope your weekend is filled with magic.

butterflies galore

2009-06-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

By now, you must have seen this very creative bouquet. If not...check out this wedding. One of Lily's best friends is moving away next week. We will miss the whole family terribly. Lily and her friend have gone to school together since preK and we even live in the same neighborhood. This bouquet gave me an idea to fill a box with silk butterflies for her and have Lily write on the tag.....like butterflies, things change, but we'll always be friends.

photo via Martha Stewart

p.s. okay, i think i'm channeling butterflies....i just took a quick break to tuck lily in for the night and she had on her butterfly nightgown that she hasn't worn in a long time. but then she says to me, it's butterflies galore tonight....i'm thinking yes, yes it is. (i hadn't told her anything about the idea yet and she hadn't seen what i was writing) does that sort of thing happen to you....it does to me...all the time.

to ourselves

2009-06-16T07:40:00.006-04:00

This morning I got up before everyone...including the ball of fire sun that says summer has arrived in South Florida...and took Newton for a 2 mile walk. We used to do at least that every morning, but lately with school getting out and life, we haven't been able to fit it in. I enjoy this little gift. It is so easy to forget to do things for ourselves. What little thing do you do for yourself? You know, the thing that gets forgotten the minute life gets hectic. The little thing that should be front and center, but is most likely back off to the side.

no this isn't my walk...my superpowers have yet to take affect....photo credit

p.s. Thanks for your sweet comments for Drew yesterday. I think he was shocked I said okay....

Cash is King

2009-06-15T06:29:00.002-04:00

Hello. This is Jae's son Drew doing a guest appearance. I jokingly said I would write the post today. Maybe I should be careful what I say. Anyway, if you ever want to give somebody money as a gift (and yes, we kids LOVE that) but you don't know how to present it-here's an idea. Fold it as a shirt and give him a head and legs like Mom did. We've had this guy on our fridge for awhile now, and Mom calls him "cash is king". Here's how to fold the shirt.

i'll take flying...

2009-06-12T06:10:00.001-04:00

If you were given the gift of one super power, which one would you choose?

available here

and what would your costume look like?

available here

For all the super Dads out there...there is nothing better than the age when your kids believe you are a superhero.
p.s. if i didn't have such a wanderlust, i would have chosen strength.

a few of his favorite things

2009-06-10T21:03:00.006-04:00

There isn't an occasion that I don't think a "favorite things" box isn't appropiate. So, put one together for Dad this Father's Day. If I was helping my kids put one together for the husband, we would fill it with good organic coffee and chocolate, a book or two, some Aussie red licorice (which I would definitely steal from), and some Hennepen beer.

What would be in your favorite things box for Dad?

our gift wrap image

tie away

2009-06-10T06:26:00.001-04:00

Giving a tie for Father's Day is hardly a new idea. If you have a Dad who likes ties for gifts...mine did when he had to wear one all the time, present it in a way he will be surprised. Instead of the obvious long narrow tie box, tie it to a balloon and wrap it so that when the box opens the balloon rises out with the tie attached.

photographer credit and photo credit

giving him the world

2009-06-09T06:30:00.001-04:00

As promised, I wanted to bring you a Father's Day idea today. Give Dad a globe and a handmade card that says...we could search the whole world, but you'd always be the Dad we'd choose.

available here

artwork by lily a couple of years ago that served as my inspiration

green getaway

2009-06-08T06:31:00.002-04:00

Something a little bit different for me today. Instead of the normal gift inspired topic, I want to talk design. This amazing new home belongs to the son of one of my mom's closest and oldest friends.

It is featured in this month's issue of Metropolitan Home. The detailing is so well appointed. The fact that it is a green home, makes me love it even more. It is so evident that nothing went into this home without thought. One of my very favorite little details is the green rug in the bedroom. If more than a dozen sliding doors, 130 feet of glass, a spa-like sunken tub, and a kitchen filled with Calacutta gold marble weren't evidence enough of thoughtful design, you just know that rug was placed there to expand the feel of the grass outside.

Read more about the details and about the architect here.
Tomorrow we'll get back to our regular scheduled programming with Father's Day ideas.

the gift that lasts a lifetime

2009-06-04T21:08:00.010-04:00

I'm curious. If you did something wildly unexpected this weekend and got a tattoo, what would it be and where would you put it? Maybe it isn't even that unexpected for you. How do you feel about the gift that lasts a lifetime? Are you too fickle for something that lasts...forever? Is it art? I don't have one, but I have always been fascinated by them. So....let's hear it....what would you get and where would you put it? Oh, and I do hope your weekend is that unexpectedly exciting.

image found here

okay okay..i can take a hint....

2009-06-03T18:51:00.009-04:00

I won't ask any more questions that make you really think creatively. I get the hint. I even double and triple checked my readership yesterday. Hmmmm...same amount of views and only one comment. So, I get it....I won't challenge you like that again...even though, I know you could do it.

The color aqua is said to soothe the soul. On the days I feel like it is my first day at circus training camp and I'm the new juggler who keeps dropping the balls, I like to go to etsy and type in aqua in the handmade search. It works.

Having coffee in these every morning would be just the way to drink in acuteness and calmness for all of us aqua lovers. You've probably been asked this by every other blogger out there, but I really want to know...What color soothes your soul and how do you find it when you need it?

mugs available here

out of the box

2009-06-03T06:42:00.001-04:00

I'm singing Alice Cooper's "school's out for summer" in our house again this week....much to the dismay of my kids. Can't help myself...it just kind of runs through my head this time of year. Summer time also means lots of weddings. Have you seen this insanely creative wedding invitation? It's packaged in a tin can with string and instructions to tie the can to the back of the couple's car after the ceremony.

It really gets you thinking outside of the box about how to package invitations. Remember these?The card that holds the heart sparkler could have the invitation printed on it with a message to bring the sparkler to light during the eating of the cake. Yesterday's post about the napkins could be done another way by taking plain napkins and writing out or printing the invitation to lunch right on them. Are you thinking out of the box now? Okay, your turn....any ideas?

wedding invitation found here and heart sparklers available here

summer lovin

2009-06-02T06:36:00.000-04:00

Summer is soooo close.....only 2 more days of school here. Celebrate the start of picnics, bbqs, roasted marshmallows, and swimming pool parties, with an outdoor luncheon.

Send your friends a vintage napkin....ones I love here, and here. Add an invitation to join you at your table for lunch. You could even tell them to bring it with them and then wrap up an extra piece of cake in it to go back home.

summer panzanella recipe here and lemon pound cake recipe here...both via smittenkitchen

winners and birthdays

2009-05-31T07:02:00.010-04:00

First things first, here are the winners. I put the numbers in the random number generator and worked down the line of gifts. If you are on the list, please email me your address to jae(at)seaandjae(dot)com. If you are not on the list, please know that I appreciate all of you so much and your comments are a gift to me each and every day. Thanks for reading and I look forward to another year together.

little bird - blue moss

mushroom - deena

bee's knees - pve

sculptural pencil - heidi

udon noodle bowl - slip4

wicker bag - g.

In other news, I know we have celebrated a lot of birthdays here recently...here, here, and here, but today is one more. Happy Birthday to the man I love. To the man I told no when he asked me out for the first time because I thought he was too much younger than me. (It turns out he is only 2 weeks younger and thankfully, I was out of excuses.) To the man who is going to wish he were the editor of this blog instead of me now that I've put his mug on it.

Happy Birthday to my husband!

happy birthday

2009-05-28T06:00:00.002-04:00

I started this blog exactly one year ago today. If a little bird

had told me it was going to mushroom

into what it is now, I would have never believed it. I think you all are the bee's knees

for taking the time to pencil

in your comments. I enjoy reading each and every one of them oodles and oodles.

To celebrate, I'm giving away each of the items pictured in this post. Just tell me what you enjoy most about this little blog of mine. I'll draw the 6 winners...yes, I said 6...on Monday.

Here's to one year in the bag.

click on each image to learn more

packaging time

2009-05-27T06:51:00.000-04:00

There is an appliance in my kitchen that is almost purely decorative. If it weren't for the timer feature, it would be decorative. I'm talking about the microwave. We almost never use it for it's intended purpose, but always use the timer. I'm thinking about getting one of these adorable little numbers....no pun intended....and letting the microwave go. Do you know someone who could use a little time...remember this post? Well, this would be a cute item to give with a note that says you've figured out how to package time.

Are you a microwave user?

timer available here

a post about nothing

2009-05-26T07:13:00.002-04:00

We had a weekend of celebrating, and I wasn't prepared for this morning. So, I casually said out loud, "What should I blog about?" My son blurts out, "blog about pies." Pies....why should I blog about pies? All I can think of is this sounds like a Seinfeld episode. Just like Seinfeld being a show about nothing, this is becoming a post about nothing. And then it comes to me, wouldn't it be fun to watch the Seinfeld episodes with my son. I love watching him find something hysterical for the first time. I know it is probably on some channel on TV, but I think the episodes on dvd would be a gift he would love....without commercials, too. I remember now, Drew was eating toaster pastries when he said pies.

image credit

happy birthday lily!

2009-05-22T06:00:00.001-04:00

There are so many things that I love about you, but in honor of your 8th birthday, here's 8 of them.

1. You always call me your teammate.

2. You still reach for my hand.

3. When I call you and tell you I'm on the way home, you say, "Yay!"

4. You make me laugh every day with your dry witty sense of humor.

5. You genuinely like when other people are happy.

6. You adore your brother and most of the time, act like a proud parent.

7. You came up with our goodnight handshake and kiss routine.

8. You are as sweet as the candy you would live on if we would only let you.

Happy Birthday Lil!

it's about time

2009-05-21T06:30:00.002-04:00

Dear time,

I wish you were here. I miss you.

Love,

jae

What do you do when there is never enough time for anything? When you feel like you are being pulled in all directions? When overwhelmed is under exaggerated? Is under exaggerate even correct? If you exaggerate something, you make it bigger. If you under exaggerate it, don't you bring it back to normal or does it actually drop below normal? I need a pretty picture.

Ahhh, that's better. Pretty picture found here, of course.

teacher's pet part 2

2009-05-20T06:30:00.000-04:00

If you really want to be the teacher's pet, fill one of these with bright red shiny apples. It doesn't really even need words. However, you could go as far as tying tiny notes to each stem listing all the reasons they are appreciated.

teacher's pet

2009-05-19T08:15:00.003-04:00

Fill a Chinese take-out container with fortune cookies. Put this one at the very top. You could have your child write a sweet note about how fortunate they were to have them as a teacher or you could tuck a gift certificate inside for something they would enjoy......maybe, a Chinese restaurant.

flexing* for flowers

2009-05-18T06:32:00.000-04:00

End of the year recitals and performances are here. At the last minute, Lily went to her friend's ballet recital Saturday night. She wanted to take her a congratulatory gift and since we knew her family was presenting her with the traditional gift of flowers, we had to act quickly. We went here and wrapped them to look like flowers. On the tag...flowers for your ballet toes.

*flex - a movement for the feet when they point(down) and flex(up)it is mostly used in warm ups.

stepping stones

2009-05-15T06:30:00.000-04:00

The transition from childhood to adulthood is happening everywhere with graduation time. Mark the event with a simple sentimental favor. Have your graduate write a couple of words of thanks on small flat stones for helping them down their path.

image credit

they say it's your birthday

2009-05-13T06:30:00.003-04:00

The Greeks gave us a fancy word for the aversion to the number 13: triskaidekaphobia, a combination of tris, meaning "three", kai, which means "and" deca, their word for "ten" and phobia for "fear". In other words, three-and-ten-fear. There are 13 major joints in your body. A deck of cards includes 13 clubs, 13 spades, 13 hearts, and 13 diamonds. The Chinese abacus consists of 13 columns of beads.There are 13 lunar cycles in a solar year and the moon travels 13 degrees across the sky everyday. The United States has a flag with thirteen stripes on it. On the back of the dollar bill, the eagle holds thirteen arrows in one talon and an olive branch with thirteen leaves in the other. Above its head are 13 stars and it bears a shield with thirteen stripes. On the left side, above the pyramids, is the motto, Annuit Coeptis (God Has Favored Our Undertakings), which has thirteen letters. Today is the 13th...today is my birthday.

{image credit}

One more thing...the day of the week I was born...Friday.

graduation gift

2009-05-12T06:18:00.000-04:00

Your world is waiting.
available here

what lies beneath

2009-05-11T06:30:00.000-04:00

I could wear a good tank top every day. In my opinion, for one to be good, it has to be cut long, be anything but boxy, and be soft. I was thrilled to discover an email in my inbox from Claridge and King to say that they have added some new items to their line and guess what......yup....a good tank top is part of it. Actually, I think I might have to say, a great tank top. Great because it comes in three lengths...check, has a bit of spandex to drape well...check, and is made with a cozy blend of bamboo and cotton...check. I really like how these women think. Check out the rest of their new line here.

Friday Favors...just like mom would make

2009-05-08T06:30:00.000-04:00

If you are having a Mother's Day dinner or party this weekend, milk and cookies would make a great little nostalgic favor. Just like Mom, what is more comforting than milk and cookies? For an extra special touch, be sure to use her recipe. I did a search and found just what I was thinking of here. Thank you Simply Sweet Bake Shop. Just add a tag or label that says, "Just like Mom's."

Happy Mother's Day!

favorite things

2009-05-07T06:30:00.000-04:00

With Mother's Day just a few days away, gone is the time to ship something. So, let's think...why not a gift of her favorite things. Fill a cute summer tote or maybe a great looking wicker piece with something she loves. Is it chocolate? Is it licorice? Is it books? Is it tulips? Whatever it is, do it with abundance. Let the amount be shocking. Go for the visual impact. We all know she's worth it.

image credit

moms make the best pillows

2009-05-06T06:30:00.000-04:00

Because Mom always has you under her wing.

available here

Koinobori*

2009-05-05T06:33:00.001-04:00

We all know that May 5th is Cinco de Mayo, but did you know the 5th of May in Japan is the Festival of Children. A carp is flown for each son in the family, a very large one for the eldest, the others ranging down in size.The carp has become the symbol of the Boys' Festival because the Japanese consider it the most spirited of fish, so full of energy and power that it can fight its way up swift-running streams. Because of its strength and determination to overcome all obstacles, it stands for courage and the ability to attain high goals. The carp is an appropriate symbol to encourage manliness and the overcoming of life's difficulties leading to consequent success. Festival or not...I choose these.

*Koinobori - koi means carp and nobori means flag.
available here

for the mama birds

2009-05-04T06:29:00.000-04:00

Today's Gift of Gab is for Mother's Day and what could be a more appropriate source of inspiration than a much loved children's book.

Because you're in it Mom....

These small goldcrests are miniature works of art by Oiva Toikka. Each bird is unique, featuring its own distinctive color variations and signed as a proof of authenticity. Toikka is a world renowned artist who has won numerous awards in recognition of his artistry. available here

summer weddings

2009-05-01T08:53:00.004-04:00

A box filled with letterpress recipe cards would still be around when it was time to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Be sure to include a few of your favorite tried and trues in each category.

available here

in the bag

2009-04-30T09:29:00.005-04:00

Mother's Day is coming fast. This versatile little wicker bag is a new addition for us. Give it to Mom this Mother's Day filled with her favorite flowers and you'll have a vase that has style in the bag. Put some sunscreen and a book she has been wanting in it and she'll have summer in the bag. Combine the great price with the great style and you'll have Mother's Day in the bag.
Available here.

here come the May flowers

2009-04-29T07:00:00.001-04:00

Do you celebrate May Day? I remember making cones and hanging them on my friends doors and of course running to avoid the kiss. I saw these quite some time ago and thought they would make the perfect May baskets.

{image and instructions found here}

For anyone out there who doesn't know what May Day is, it is celebrated on May 1st. There seems to be many different traditions and stories, but just about all of them use flowers. The popular tradition I know is to hang a cone or container of spring flowers on your friend's doorknob. However, you have to sneak away before they see you because if you get caught, you are supposed to get a kiss. With May Day only a couple of days away, I thought you might like to make these. You may even want to stick around and get that kiss...you would certainly be deserving.

gift baskets...raised

2009-04-28T07:53:00.007-04:00

Time for an interior photo that inspires a gift. We all recognize this kitchen....yes, it's Thom Filicia's space in Soho. See the bar in the basket on the counter? Those baskets are available at any Home Goods, Marshall's, and TJ Maxx type store. Pick one up the next time you need a hostess or housewarming gift. Fill it with liquor bottles and mixers. Talk about raising the bar on gift baskets. Okay, you can roll your eyes, the irony was too obvious.

{image via loftlife}