little bird crafts

Dream come true

2012-01-22T23:07:00.000-08:00

Last week was beyond busy for me at work, and I literally spent every minute of the day either drawing for tattoos or tattooing. I did sneak in a little time before the crazy began and whipped up two small paintings.

Even though I feel like I haven't had much, if any time to be crafty lately, I do have something very exciting to share! I've been working on designing a cross stitch pattern for the lovely ladies over at The Frosted Pumpkin Stitchery! Very soon (hopefully by the end of this week) the pattern will be up for sale. It's a Matryoshka, of course. And she is very cute! I'm beyond excited about this, and it's totally a dream come true. I can't wait to share it with all of you!

Well, I have to get back to my drawings. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

Until next time,

S. <3

Time travel

2012-01-12T18:13:00.000-08:00

My mom recently emailed me old family photos from when she was a little girl and my grandparents were young. I cherish old photos like these more than anything. Don't they just make you wish you could travel back in time? My grandpa who's always been a funny old man, was apparently funny back then too. Not that I ever had any doubts.

Love this photo of my grandma. What a beauty!

I've also been playing around with some of my own photos!

winter wonderland

pappa jente

trouble makers

While I was home for Christmas I made sure to raid my mom's cookbook with recipes she's been collecting since I was little. It's been over 10 years since last time I made vegan creamy onion soup. This recipe used to be my favorite so I figured I'd give it a go again. Here it is;

For the best vegan creamy onion soup you'll ever eat, you'll need:

(Serves 4-5 people)

4 Large leeks

2 Large onions

2 Tbs Earth balance

1 Liter (33 Ounces) vegetable bouillon/broth

8 Ounces Tofutti plain cream cheese

16 Ounces plain Soy milk creamer

Chop the leeks and the onions and Sauté them in the Earth balance for about 10 minutes. Add the vegetable bouillon/broth, Cream cheese and Soy milk creamer and let cook on medium to low heat under a lid for 30-40 minutes.

I usually serve the soup with a sliced baguette, but any white bread will do just fine. Enjoy! :)

After living in the states for years now (time flies!) I realized that one of the things I miss the most about home (other than family and friends) is the bread they have in Norway. Why is it so hard to find good bread here? I hate pre-sliced store bought bread more than anything! So earlier today I tried making my own, and it was pretty successful. I have yet to buy a stand mixer so it was a long 10 minutes of kneading, but totally worth it. Next time I'll make sure to pick an apartment with enough counter space to store a Kitchen Aid stand mixer. A girl can dream, right?

I've gotten a few requests lately to share work related photos, which I might do from time to time. But if you are really curious to see what I do when I'm not crafting at home, you can check out my other blog here.

Until next time,

S. <3

8 days of 2012

2012-01-08T00:59:00.000-08:00

So far 2012 has been great! I woke up, and my hair looked like this; (yikes!)

I had a few really busy days at work, and a very relaxing weekend. Spencer and I are finally back to a normal schedule as far as sleep goes. It was harder than I remember trying to adjust from a different timezone this time around. Either way, we're finally able to stay up past 8pm!

I spent (too many to mention) hours browsing Pinterest yesterday, who else is addicted? Follow me if you're on there! And if you're not, it's definitely worth checking out!

Today I decided that if I'm gonna make this a productive year, I better start off by making room to craft. I'm embarrassed to say, but my desk has been completely covered in junk since September. Not anymore! ( I left my camera at work, so these crappy iphone photos will have to do for now).

While I was cleaning, Walgreens so kindly printed a whole stack of my photos for me. How nice.

And from those photos, I made this: (Only sneak peaks for now!)

I also made some cute little cookies to take to work. YUM!

I'll be doing a super early spring cleaning here in a few days, which means I'm gonna part with a lot of stuff. I'll put it all up here, and you guys can take your pick. Yay!

What fun new, exciting projects are you guys working on?

Until next time,

S. <3

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T13:35:00.000-08:00

I don't know if anyone reads this anymore, but here's to making 2012 a more productive year! I've been so busy with work this last year, I barely had a chance to do anything but work on drawings, paintings and tattoo related art. Not that there's anything wrong with that, I just miss working on other projects too!

With my Nikon pretty much only getting used for tattoo photos, I had decided to downgrade my craft supplies, and get rid of all paper, glue dots and everything else I hadn't used in the last year or so. I'm so glad I didn't. Spencer and I just got back from Norway, and even though I left my 1.4 50mm lens in Portland (yes, I'm a dummy) I took a ridiculous amount of photos. Some that definitely will get printed and scrapbooked. (yay!)

Since I haven't updated in forever I'll share what little I got done in 2011. I found a new obsession, terrarium craft. Who else is wishes they could live in one of these?

I started a modified Fana sweater for Spencer, and flew through the first sleeve only to discover I knitted it too tight. I guess I'll just unravel and start over. At least now I can take my time and hope to have it finished before next winter. Wish me luck!

New years resolutions never last, so I'll call mine wishes this time. In 2012 I wish to travel more, find a bigger apartment, with a designated craft space, be more creative outside of work, finish the quilt I started in 2010, be healthier and stay as busy at work as I was this last year, if not even busier. What are your hopes, dreams and wishes for 2012?

Until next time,

S. <3

September swimming.

2011-09-10T01:32:00.000-07:00

Even though it doesn't feel like it at all, fall is right around the corner. With the new season ahead, I feel a little bit more inspired each day to dig up the art and craft supplies. I'm going to try really hard to keep up with this blog this fall and winter, and if I'm being quiet, it's probably because I am also blogging over here.

We've spent so many hot days at the river over the summer, including Spencer's birthday at the Washougal. It was such a fun day! Weather is still in the 90's, and we are all longing for A/C at this point. It turns out, cold water in a spray bottle is the next best thing.

The only craft related projects I've worked on all summer have been a few knitted ones. I knitted a hat (which still needs to be blocked before I can get a good photo) and some matching fingerless gloves (those I am still working on). At least I can share a few photos of the lovely yarn!

I stumbled upon a super cute store here in Portland, which happens to be right down the street from my new home. It's called Artemisia. I had never thought about making terrariums in the past, but I was sold on the idea the second I walked through the door. With that said, I now have a new hobby. I'll share my two first terrariums.

Spencer and I went berry picking at Sauvie Island a few weeks back, which resulted in a freezer full off berries. I've been enjoying frozen mixed berry smoothies, and I also made a mixed berry crumble!

Cupcake and I had a nice long walk, and a rest in the grass at the Lone Fir Cemetery today. It was so nice to get out of the sun for a while, and sit in the shade in the cool grass.

I've been excited about this sunny hot weather all summer, but I am also kind of glad it's coming to an end. I'm so ready for this!

I was inspired, and made these. Yum! Now I am really craving apple cider and pumpkin spice lattes.

xo, S.

Gorgeous!

2011-06-07T10:57:00.000-07:00

Spencer and I spent last Saturday at the Japanese Gardens here in Portland. If you haven't yet been, go! It's my new favorite place. Absolutely gorgeous!

I've been working on some secret projects lately, here is a sneak peak! <3

My prints finally arrived, and they are up for sale!

Set includes two water color prints on 8x10 off-white water color paper. Each one signed and numbered.

Hope you are all enjoying sunny, warm weather!

xo.

4.30.2011+1

2011-05-01T19:04:00.000-07:00

Spencer and I celebrated our 6 month anniversary yesterday. It's hard to believe it's been 6 months since we met on Halloween. I never thought I'd be so attracted to a boy wearing a maids outfit. It was indeed special.

What's more fitting that celebrating meeting on Halloween, with a picnic at a Cemetery? Not much. Actually, it was cute, and peaceful as fuck. I made pasta salad, and sandwiches, picked up some cookies, and chocolate covered strawberries. We had gorgeous sunny weather. It was perfect.

Check out that super cute crocheted blanket Spencers mom made years ago, I love it! I'm super inspired to make a summer quilt of sorts. Maybe ill give crocheting another shot.

pups!

2011-04-20T23:50:00.000-07:00

We finally had (almost) a whole entire day with sunshine here in Portland. My friend Sarah and I spent most of the day at the dog park, with our cuties, Wartooth and Cupcake-Ramone.

Spencer and I went thrift shopping last Saturday, and I scored the cutest vintage mod dress, and a rad vintage globe. I'll be back with a better photo of the dress later.

I finished that baby hat I had started in my last blog update, of course it ended up being waaay too big. It actually fits my head. Yeah, cool. So I started over, and it looks to be right this time. It just looks like a half finished green beanie now, but I can't wait to get to the dinosaur part of the hat, the spikes, it's gonna look cute! I promise I'll post pictures before I ship it out.

I hope you all are enjoying sunshine and warm weather! What craft related projects are you currently working on?

<3 S.

If it's still raining.

2011-04-14T15:40:00.000-07:00

Am I allowed to keep knitting? Spring has definitely not arrived in Portland. Two days of sunshine here and there doesn't count when there are endless days of rain. Yesterday we even had a hail storm. Lovely.

Sometimes I wonder, and worry that Spring, and Summer, will never happen. Then I remember last year. It is totally worth the wait. Meanwhile, I'll be knitting. Hey, it's mid-April, knitting hats seem totally appropriate, right?

I am currently working on a dinosaur inspired hat for Clark, Spencers nephew. I feel like I'm pretty good at knitting, but there is something about knitting a hat that is ever so difficult for some reason. Throw me a sweater pattern, and I'll have that thing finished in no time. Am I the only one struggling with hat patterns?
With that said, the hat is way too big at this point, so I'm probably gonna end up starting over, oh well.

I made a crochet baby blanket for my nephew awhile back, I posted some iphone pictures of it in my last post, but here are some actual camera photos.

I've also been busy making gifts for some pretty special ladies. I made a fabric, knitting needle/paintbrush roll for both my mom, and Spencers mom.

If you are interested in seeing what I've been painting lately, check out my other blog.
I hope Spring made it's way to wherever you are.

<3 S.

A New Leaf

2011-04-07T17:37:00.000-07:00

This is for all of you who are still out there, waiting so patiently for me to (finally) update my blog, thank you <3 For those of you who sent me sweet emails, with kind words, and encouragement to update this thing, you are all so wonderful <3

I have been extremely busy lately, I moved yet again (yes, I know, it's ridiculous), I also moved to a new Tattoo Shop, and I am now at Scapegoat Tattoo Sundays-Tuesdays 12-8pm, come see me!

It feels like ages since I updated this blog, and with that said, I'm gonna try my best to update you all on what has been taking up all my time lately, by posting photos from the last months.

Thank you all for being so patient <3.

I started a new blog, just for my tattooing, and art, check it out! <3

Thanks again, I hope you all are enjoying Spring! Lots of love, S.

safe travels

2010-12-06T20:52:00.000-08:00

I celebrated my 'one year in Portland' just the other day, December 1st. It seems to have gone by so fast since I first fell in love with the city. Come spring I was swooning hard, by summer I was obsessed.
I can honestly say it is the very first time I have felt at home. I am so Portland.

I have met some of the best people my short time here, made some incredible friends, reconnected with old friends, reached personal goals, and made a life here.
The last year definitely had it's ups and downs, but all in all I can honestly say I have never been happier.

In a matter of hours I leave for Norway, I'll be gone for 3 weeks, feels like forever. It's bizarre to have mixed feelings about Christmas, and going back home. For those of you who know me best, know that in the past it has been the highlight of my entire year. Now, it feels strange to leave Portland, friends, pets, and work behind, even if only for three weeks.

I ended October by doing a guest spot at Scapegoat Tattoo on Halloween, with papa Shaun , I tattooed some great people, made new friends, and met someone special. All in all, it was a great day. I will be tattooing at Scapegoat Sundays and Mondays as of January 2nd, exciting news! It has been my dream to work there since I moved to Portland! Good things are definitely happening :)

With that said I'll share some pictures of my last few months, and I hope you all have a wonderful December!

Tattoos on Kirsten and Brandon.

Shaun tattooing my hand during Portland Tattoo Expo.

Shaun getting head by Cupcake. Wait, what?!

Happy birthday Kirsten! <3

Farmers market.

@ Powells books <3

warmest day in November!

...to coldest day in November.

dog walks, and bike rides.

twinsies <3

first Blazer game!

current project.

still cute!

Halloween!

Loves! <3

now.

Happy Holidays! <3

face melting good

2010-10-21T00:15:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a weekend in San Francisco. I can honestly say it was the best time I have had in years. My friend Brandon and I left Portland at 5am Saturday morning, drove along the coast, and through the red woods. We stopped at a pretty epic diner in Humboldt county, shared some great stories, and made it to San Francisco after about 15 hours.

We got in late Saturday night, unloaded bags and bikes, and started walking up and down the hills of SF looking for a place to eat, incredible. I will admit I was a little intimidated by the thought of biking down, and up those same hills the next day. I was worried for no reason.

We got up at the crack of dawn the next day, hopped on our bikes and headed down to Pier 33. Alcatraz was waiting. I grew up watching the escape from Alcatraz, with my dad, and finally getting to go there was like a dream come true. It was incredible. It rained the whole day, but that didn't stop us. We spent about 14 hours on our bikes that day, all smiles the whole time. I wouldn't have it any other way :)

After Alcatraz we continued to bike around the city in the rain, through chinatown, by the waterfront, all over really. I think we both fell asleep extremely happy, and sore that night.

We woke up to sunshine and warm weather Monday morning, we had decided the night before that a bike ride across the golden gate definitely had to happen, and after coffee and bagels at ground control, we headed out. I can honestly say I have never been so sore, and was struggling before I got warmed up on our way to the bridge. I had a moment after biking up a big hill where I decided a 20oz coffee before an all day bike ride was a bad idea. Bad, bad idea.

Biking across the bridge with the sun in my eyes was wonderful. I wished my dad had been there, but now I have an excuse to go back! San Francisco is truly magical. A lot less bike friendly than I had imagined, very busy, but with great architecture, people and weather.

We biked back across the bridge, and down to Pier 39 where the sea lions sun bathe, and have their picture taken. So cute! Then we biked down Powell, and stopped by H&M, we both scored some great treasures before we headed back to our hotel to get cleaned up before the show.

I missed Interpol twice before, and was definitely not gonna let it happen again. Brandon and I planned this trip about 3 months ago, and I'm so glad we did. I wouldn't change anything. We did everything to the fullest, it was non stop adventure and fun from start to finish. Many, many more adventures, and shows to come.

Interpol was amazing, we were right up front, the sound was great, and I filmed most of the show. However it was incredibly loud, so the sound quality in my video is shit. I'll still share though. Enjoy <3

Clearly I have no shame. Non stop dance parties, no wonder I am exhausted. My face is also frozen to a permanent grin. It's quite fantastic! <3

Thank you Brandon for being the best adventure buddy ever, this weekend wouldn't have been nearly as fun without you!

Breathe

2010-10-08T18:56:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to say it has been a really great week. I was lucky to surround myself with great people, great music, work was fun too! I tattooed a roll of TP, because, well as Nate put it, who doesn't love toilet paper? Just think about it.
Kirsten got a sweet gypsy lady, and an eagle. It's a win win.

Speaking of tattoos, I just made an appointment with my brother from another mother, Shaun <3
Shaun is staying with us girls for the Portland tattoo expo, and I'm so excited to hangout again, introduce him to some wonderful people, and get tattooed.

It's a new month, which means a fresh start, and hopefully, maybe, finally fall? The air feels different, it's cooler, the light changed and the leaves are turning. I even had to dig out my boots. Fun!

We spent the week baking, I cut fabric for a fall quilt and did some necessary grocery shopping. Here is what my week looks like <3

With fall also comes inspiration, and sometimes I get so lucky to stumble upon new, great music, that is just that, inspiring. Check out these adorable Swedish sisters, First Aid Kit. I love them!

What are you currently working on?

xo.

summer 2010 recap

2010-10-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

October 1st, you would think summer would officially be over. It's hot, sticky and sunny in Portland, even after a week of rain. Oregon likes to tease you like that.

The Houghton house is finally complete, as of Wednesday. Our lovely 4th roomate Liz, is getting settled and moved in. She is quite the crafty lady as well, and makes wonderful jewelery. I can't wait for cooler weather, and craft nights.

It's almost scary how fast the last couple months went by, what happened to summer? I sure was busy.
I'm ready for apple picking, pumpkin carving, bike rides and rain. But before I say goodbye to summer for now I wanted to share the last months with you in photos. Enjoy <3

I can definitely say I did everything I wanted to do, I met some great people and made some of the best friends so far. Summer of 2010, you were fucking fantastic.

Lights

2010-09-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Saturday!
Has fall arrived to wherever you are? It has here. The light changed, the air feels different, knitting is happening, and tea is steeping. It's wonderful.

Who else is excited about the release of Interpols latest album? I obsessively listened to "lights" on repeat when they released the song early. So good. I'm more than thrilled with the new album. I'm driving to San Fransisco in October to see them play in Oakland on October 18th. SO excited. Are any of you going to that show, or any of their other shows this tour?

I will most likely be staying at a hotel while I am there, any good recommendations for somewhat decent, inexpensive hotels downtown. My friend Brandon and I will be bringing our bikes, and plan on getting around that way most of the time while we are there. Fun! All other recommendations for things to see, or do, and places to eat are also greatly appreciated! <3

It has been a good week. Much less stressful than the last. Kirsten and I proudly spent all of Sunday on our orange couches watching movies, while knitting. We of course played around with power tools and hung bikes first. Never a lazy day at our house.

It was probably the first day since spring where we took some well needed time off for crafts. It was truly wonderful, and well deserved.

I finished my dads socks, started, and finished some mittens, and CO for some short socks for myself. Yay!

What are you currently working on?

I've been busy painting this week, I will do an Etsy update here pretty soon with some original paintings, in really pretty vintage frames. I'm excited!

Here is a little sneak peak of what I've been working on,

Speaking of paintings, we did a shop special for Friday the 13th awhile back, where I painted a flash sheet where people could pick small and fun tattoos to get for $13. I was so busy all day, and it was a blast! We did the same thing for our shop anniversary last Friday, $25-$75 tattoos, and the shop was slammed all day. I think we tattooed around 100+ people all together, and I did 26. Fun! I love a busy day at work.

I've done some really fun tattoos lately, some craft related, some food related, and some nautical themed ones.

Audra Mae and Joe Ginsberg stopped by the shop on their way through Portland, and I tattooed the cutest little elf family on Joes leg.

I will promise I'll post a picture of the finished tattoo, it's really cute! <3 Kirsten and I watched Audra and Joe play at Aladdin last night, it was truly magical. If you Haven't checked her out yet, make sure you do. Her voice is incredible.

I've been making soap lately, and our house smells of delicious strawberries. Yum! The soaps will be up for sale it my Etsy shop here pretty soon, so make sure to grab them while they are fresh :)

I hope you all are having a magical Saturday <3

xo.

a place to call home

2010-09-07T09:36:00.000-07:00

We finished up unpacking the very last boxes yesterday, and I finally got around to taking some real photos of our adorable home, enjoy!

The house is in North Portland, it's a 5 bedroom, two bath, however we turned the master into an arts and craft space. We're looking for a temporary 4th roomate, are you cute, and wanna live in an adorable house with 3 super fun, crafty girls? Send me an email!

So this is our home, minus the other girls bedrooms, and our retro 70's basement movie room. Soon to come!

I've been busy painting for work, and for fun, and I brought some of the gocco screen prints back for fall, they are up for sale in my Etsy shop <3

A scratchy and sore throat snuck up on me last night, and It's no better this morning, any helpful old remedies to get rid of it?

I'll be back with photos of paintings later this week, also some exciting news, and more fun pictures.

Hope you had a great Labor Day weekend! <3

fall is (almost) here!

2010-09-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

It's been an incredible summer, one of the busiest for sure! I moved 3 times, went to the Oregon coast, made new friends, got tattooed, packed, and unpacked, cooked delicious food, spent a day at the river and explored.

Due to being incredibly busy, and not having had a chance to blog for weeks, I now have a boat load of pictures to blog about. We are still getting settled, and organized, so I will share more once everything is out of boxes, bikes are out of the way, and our home looks just the way we want it to look.

Our cute neighbors brought us cupcakes, Kirsten and I scored that one-armed rocking chair for free on the side of the road, and I painted it teal to surprise her when she came back from a hot week in Texas. Cute!

I now live with my wonderful co-worker, and best friend, Kirsten and her adorable cousin, Kari. They are such incredible roomates, and I am looking forward to many, many family dinners and craft nights <3

We've found some real treasures on craigslist, on the side of the road and at yard sales the last couple of weeks, including orange couches, pictured above, to go with our retro 70's inspired basement movie room, retro wooden box TV, incredible 9 drawer dresser and gold mirror for my bedroom. A desk for the craft room and a cute vintage coffee table. And the cutest handmade vintage dress, made to fit perfectly, for only $1.50, what a steal. Portland is amazing for thrifting and recycling.

Portland is also beautiful, and full of eye candy.

In between unpacking and organizing I found some time to scrapbook, so fun! Our dearest friend Emily, who was Kirstens roomate during summer, moved back to Chicago. She will be greatly missed. Fingers crossed she will move back and be our 4th roomate sometime in the future, hopefully soon. <3

In fear of picture overload, I will be back on Tuesday with photos from the river, our shop anniversary party and other cute summer happenings.

I made another batch of cute gocco prints, and soaps, and much more to share also.

Hope your summer treated you well <3

Betty Bo, I love you so.

2010-07-11T16:16:00.000-07:00

Meet my latest obsession, Betty Bo.

That's right, I got a car, finally! After what seemed like forever, searching craigslist up and down, I came across this beauty. She's a 1980 El Camino, and she's the prettiest color teal ever. Of course she matches my bike, Dita.

I showed up at work today really early, so I took some photos to share. I work at the cutest tattoo shop ever, after all, I mean, it's only fair that you guys get to see where I spend my days. <3

I also got new business cards made, cute!

If you're ever in Portland, come get tattooed, look at pretty jewelery and tasty jam, or just stop by to say hi :)

I had the pleasure to tattoo 3 lovely ladies yesterday, visiting from Seattle. One of them got this done, fun!

My friend Corey is on tour again and spent a day in Portland, so we got to hangout.

I'm hoping to find some time and inspiration to do something creative the next two days, it has really been too long!

Hope you all are having a wonderful weekend!

xoxo.

life as of late.

2010-07-08T21:13:00.000-07:00

It's been incredibly hot here in Portland the last few days, somehow it got up in the 100's and I am so not used to this kind of weather anymore.
We left work early yesterday to lay out in the sun, girls, food, beverages. Awesome.

It's been an interesting last 4 weeks, I've been staying at my friend, and boss, Melanies house, and it's definitely a challenge, feeling like you're living out of a box, and not being able to just do as you please. I feel so un-crafty, at least I am knitting. Yeah, I am totally working on a pair of socks in this ridiculous heat. How appropriate.
I'll be getting a house in the beginning of September, with some amazing people, so I'm just crashing till then, and counting down the days. Literally. The pets are going crazy, I am going crazy, but at the end of the day, I shouldn't really complain. It could be worse, a lot worse.

I spent the 4th surrounded by wonderful people, ate good food, watched a pretty incredible hula hoop showdown, and ended the evening by watching fireworks from the burnside bridge.

It turned out to be a pretty epic night. Which is cool, as it was the very first time I celebrated 4th of July. Other than that I have just been hanging out and tattooing. Life is pretty good, and it can only get better. I do apologize for the lack of creativity around here. I promise, once I am back in a house, with all my things unpacked. I will have some cute stuff to show!! <3

Once I can actually locate the charger for my camera, I promise I will have actual pictures to share, not just iphone photos.

Hope you all had a magical 4th!

long time no blog.

2010-06-26T23:39:00.000-07:00

Guess what, I'm back.

Saying the last month has been crazy would be a huge understatement. I had to deal with some personal things, and therefore decided to take a break from blogging to focus on myself, and my sanity.
I packed, I moved, I got tattooed, I tattooed, I painted, I turned 26, and I chopped my hair off, and I finally am happy to say I feel like me again. <3

Portland is beautiful these days, sunny weather, bike rides, fruits and veggies, BBQ's and friends.

I just wanted to share some pictures of what I have been up to, I'll be blogging regularly again, so please stop by <3

Love you all.

xoxo.

five favorites

2010-05-14T16:01:00.000-07:00

If you are new to my blog, or just feel like getting to know me a little better, while looking at pretty pictures, you should head over to Megs' beautiful blog, PaperJot for her five favorites blog post. Thanks again Meg, you are wonderful! <3

It's been a really busy week, I took the train to Seattle on Monday where Shaun picked me up, we met up with Corey and Heather and had lunch. Then Shaun and I headed over to Apocalypse Tattoo where Shaun works, and we got set up and ready for my tribute to Norway, finally, or should I say about time.

After the show we went out for some delicious food again, and then to a show. I haven't been to a hardcore show in years, and it totally felt like I had gone back in time, being there with Shaun and Corey. It was really fun though. We went to the market the next day, then had vegan ice cream and coffee. Yum!

And some abnormally large photo booth pictures.

The train ride home was beautiful, I had a window seat, it was really sunny outside, and hardly any people on the train. I must have listened to Editors - Back room, about a million times. <3

I've been back at work since Wednesday and I feel like I have been tattooing non stop, I did some pretty big tattoos, and lots and lots of drawings. Crazyness, but oh so fun! If you are in the area, you should come see me!

(in progress)

I'm working on some pretty fun drawings, and I also have some good tattoos coming up! I'm excited! My desk at work is a hot mess right now, and I just organized and threw out all my old sketches yesterday. Ugh.

When I am not making a mess at my desk, I am our riding my new (old) bicycle. Meet Dita, how pretty is she! <3 I'm so obsessed with her! We've had beautiful weather here lately so I've taken her out for rides all over town. SO fun!

I have to get back to work. I hope you all have beautiful sunny weather, and aren't trapped inside! <3

xoxo

Four Things

2010-05-07T15:28:00.000-07:00

FOUR JOBS YOU'VE HAD IN YOUR LIFE

1. costume assistant at a play house. (Rogaland Teater) (possibly the most fun job. ever)

2. body piercer at house of pain. (Stavanger) (never again)

3. tattoo artist at Freaks, John Biswell and Icon Tattoo. (Portland) (come see me!)

4. ...sorry to disappoint you, but that's pretty much it.

FOUR MOVIES YOU COULD WATCH OVER AND OVER

1. Le fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain (once it's over I usually push play to watch it one more time)

2. Billy Elliot (makes me cry every time)

3. A love song for Bobby Long (LOVE the soundtrack)

4. The Royal Tenenbaums (duh)

FOUR CITIES YOU'VE LIVED IN

1. Stavanger, Norway (born and raised)

2. Kansas City, MO (Chicago vacation turned into road trip, turned into job offer)

3. Portland, ME (east coast here I come, brrrr...It's cold in Maine!)

4. Portland, OR (why not try the other Portland)

FOUR TV SHOWS YOU LOVE TO WATCH

1. Mad Men (recent obsession)

2. Dexter (one can never have too much blood!)

3. Sex and the City (Carrie Bradshaw <3)

4. The L word (I got sucked into this one big time)

FOUR PLACES YOU'VE BEEN ON VACATION

1. Rome, Italy (Europe for a month by train, Rome was the most wonderful place)

2. London, England (many, many, many visits here. Always a good time.)

3. Paris, France (2 day vacation during summer school in Bournemouth, England)

4. Aalborg, Denmark (I almost got suckered into getting tattooed at 16)

FOUR WEBSITES YOU VISIT DAILY

1. Etsy.com (does this really need an explanation??)

2. Facebook.com (shame)

3. Flickr.com (love!)

4. decor8blog.com (eyecandy)

FOUR OF YOUR FAVORITE FOODS

1. Apples and peanut butter (snacks are foods!)

2. Crispy tofu with spicy awesome sauce ( Blue Koi, KCMO)

3. My moms lasagna (I could eat it every day)

4. Alberta bowl (at the Native Bowl, PDX. New fave place to get food!)

FOUR SCHOOLS YOU'VE ATTENDED

1. Storhaug skole (I wasn't really suppose to go to this school, someone messed up!)

2. Nylund barneskole (where I once called my teacher "grandma" on accident. Oops!)

3. St. Svithun ungdoms skole (god, I was so not cool back then)

4. Forus VGS (art school, finally!)

FOUR THINGS IN YOUR ROOM

1. one big stack of craft books and magazines

2. ipod and ihome (currently playing Lauryn Hill)

3. Cupcake, aka monkey aka chalupa. (sleeping per usual.)

4. sewing machine (it's getting dusty, shame on me)

FOUR THINGS YOU ARE WEARING RIGHT NOW

1. Black top with gingham collar and sleeve edges. (too cute!)

2. Gray shorts.

3. Black tights

4. Black oxfords.

FOUR PLACES I'D RATHER BE RIGHT NOW

1. San Fransisco (food, bikes, lego hearts)

2. NYC (shopping, pizza, parks)

3. Norway (friends and family)

4. Rome (it's magical!)

timetravel.

2010-05-02T01:20:00.000-07:00

I wish I could go back in time to when I shared a cute little house with a certain African , the brightest red living room, the most disastrous kitchen, the strangest sleeping arrangements, plane tickets upon plane tickets, shows 3 times a week, road trips, movie nights, late night grocery shopping and this...

Seattle needs to happen soon. <3

xo.

Dear, diary.

2010-04-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

No not really, but kind of.

I had along weekend. I spent the last 2 days fighting a cold, I heard laughter is the best medicine, so I did just that - laugh, a lot.
I went to work today, thinking I was A-ok, but as the day went by my head just kept getting stuffier and stuffier. I also did quite the acrobatic number on Otis this morning, and threw my back out. I'm currently laying on the couch, unable to move, and also high on advil and tussin. Fingers crossed the cold is gone, and that my back feels a little better tomorrow. I know Otis is laughing for sure.

I finished my Tim Gunn painting last week, but I've been bad about sharing, I also finished my black and gray flapper girl painting, I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out.

All these and more are up for sale in my Etsy shop :)

It's been so nice here in Portland lately, well other than the last 24 hours at least, rain, rain and more rain. I keep seeing all these people riding bicycles everywhere, and it's quite wonderful. It has made me want a road bike so bad! I'm also falling in love with everything bicycle these days.

source

Cute stuff, huh!

I'm gonna get some rest. Have a great night! xoxo.

Love letter. Part deux.

2010-04-22T13:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Tim Gunn,

I kinda like, love you. alot.

Love,

Silje.

not silence.

2010-04-20T23:16:00.000-07:00

Someone amazing told me I should blog about my favorite music right now, and I am doing so. Listening to records last night with Jared and Kirsten definitely reminded me of how much more wonderful music truly is on vinyl, also it made me miss my dad really bad.
My dad and I will literally sit around and paint/draw while listening to music for hours on end, while we pretend we're the only two people left on earth. It's quite magical.

I discovered Laura Veirs when they were opening for Blind Pilot here in Portland a few months ago. Love!

Lauryn Hill, I've listened to this cd non stop since it came out, and it never gets old. ever.

I listened to Madrugada all through art school, and I'm proud to say they are fellow Norwegians. I love this band oh so much. Art school was the happiest of times, but I usually dig this one out whenever I am feeling down, or whenever I am having one of those super rainy, lazy craft days.

My mom and I listened to City and Colour on repeat for 2 weeks straight last summer. Great album, great memories. <3

Believe it or not, Motley Crue is one of my all time fave bands. Oh yeah. I used to rock the metal hair and tight black everything. Awesome.

Interpol, not a single day passes without me listening to either one of these two albums. Can't decide which I like better, so I had to pick them both. Need I say LOVE!!!

What are some of your favorite albums?

xoxo.

tirsdag

2010-04-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

I feel like I've been slacking on the blog front. Not just with blogging myself, but also keeping up with all your blogs. I'll have to do something about that.

Work is great, I did a super fun tattoo the other day, on a super fun guy. It was all in all a great day. I have some appointments coming up that I am pretty stoked about, so it should be a fun few coming weeks. I've also been painting a lot at work, yesterday I had the day off, but went to Jareds with Kirsten for art night. He has the most amazing house, with the most amazing art, and we listened to some amazing music. It was great. Cupcake tagged along also, for a play date with Jareds little dog, Amelie. Cute.
Endless amounts of white chocolate peanut butter and apples were eaten, yum! What more can one wish for?

I'm currently working on these two paintings, struggling a bit with this first one. I'm keeping it black and gray, but are gonna add some red details to it. Should be pretty fun, other than I am driving myself crazy trying to making it oh so perfect.

I started that painting, but decided to put it aside for now till I finish this one. I feel like I'm having better luck with this one, as it's all color pretty much. Also it's a gift for someone amazing, and a fellow artist so that makes it so much better.

I received a cute little package in the mail last week from sweet Emily. I painted Emilys adorable dog Nieco a few weeks ago, and she sent me the most amazing embroidered piece of art as a thank you.

How perfect and cute is that! I love it so much <3 Thank you Emily, you are such a sweet heart <3

I am off to the art store for some water color paper, and then work. Have a great day!
xoxo

monstermash

2010-04-16T00:50:00.000-07:00

Finished up a new flash page I started before I left for Dallas, super happy with the way this one came out. I love the colors together, plus who doesn't love those classic monsters!

Just wanted to share before I am off to bed!

Night night <3

back to reality.

2010-04-14T11:42:00.000-07:00

What an incredible weekend!
We started Sunday off with oatmeal and orange juice at the hotel, they also had Texas shaped waffles, then again, everything is shaped like the state of TX, in Texas.
We met up in our talent wear, I was wearing cute short shorts, knee highs, pink converse, and a pink tank top, and you may ask what was my talent? Hula Hooping!
I must admit I have gotten pretty good at it in the short time I have had to practice, but of course I let my nerves get the best of me, and I completely froze, and couldn't do it for very long on stage. It was still fun though, and I smiled and laughed it off. Hah!

As the result of all my hula hooping through the weekend. I swear, I was hula hopping on the bed, on the balcony, on the floor, and well, of course on stage, and it shows!

Sarah had cake decorating as her talent, and she had pre-baked the cutest little cookies, which she decorated with a yellow rose of Texas, a white border, and "miss tattoo" in pink frosting. It was so cute!!

After talent we had to get ready for the pin up portion of the pageant, and the theme was cow girl. So many cute outfits! We got up on stage, posed, smiled and posed again for photos, and done.

Sarah and I walked around for a few hours, got some fresh air, some food, and made new friends. The crowning was at 7, everyone was so nervous. Jennifer did her speech, and it was super emotional.
Emily walked away as 2nd runner up, Mizuz Inkaholic got 1st runner up, and Sarah, of course got crowned Miss Tattoo Dallas. There were also two wild cards, that were given to Keisha and Gina. I am of course bummed I didn't place, but also so Incredible proud, and happy that Sarah won! <3
It was one of the best weekends i have ever had, and I met some amazing people, and made new friends. So fun!

After the crowning we posed for more photos, said goodbye to all the girls, and packed up our stuff. I had an appointment to get tattooed by a new friend, Adrian Evans, so we headed over to his booth. We didn't get started till around 11pm, and by the time we were finished with the shading, we decided to head out with them, and other people from the convention. Fun!

Adrian and I instantly hit it off when we realized we know the same people, and I am super happy to have made a new friend and found a new tattoo artist that I love! We'll be finishing my arm, and I think I'm gonna have him do my knee also, in a few months! Fun! :)

It's gonna take a few weeks for the photographer to edit all the photos, but I will share them once they arrive <3

Thanks again for all the support, you guys are incredible <3

I am about to head to work, I have some really fun tattoos scheduled for this week! I'm all smiles :)

Have a lovely day!

xoxo.

Miss Tattoo

2010-04-10T23:51:00.000-07:00

Howdy!

I'm finally able to do an update from Sarahs ever so trusty pc, my mac is not agreeing with the internet in our hotel room, so I'm glad I can use this as a back up.
Dallas is amazing, I've only been to Texas once before, on a spur of the moment adventure, hop on a place the next day, buy a car, lay on the beach at South Padre Island, and drive back to KC-kinda deal. But Dallas is really nice, the food is amazing, yeah you'd be surprised to know that I've had the most amazing vegan pizza ever across the street from the convention. We went to the hippest of hipster vegan restaurants the night we arrived for some delicious nachos and mac and cheese. And ate some very, very good falafels at Cosmic Cafe. You can definitely be vegan, and not starve in Dallas!

Friday was casual wear, I wore black skinnies, a white tank top and heels, we introduced ourselves, and it was slightly nerve wracking being on stage for the first time. Today we had hair and makeup professionally done, so fun being pampered! We had photoshoots, evening wear on stage, along with interview questions, then followed by swim suit, and some tattoo related questions.
I'm number one through the whole competition, meaning I go on stage first. I'm actually pretty happy about that, less time to stand around and be nervous, plus I get to walk around with a big "1" on my sash. Hah!
I also entered a non pageant related contest today, for my mom and dad tattoos, by Shaun, in the category for Traditional tattoos, and I won 2nd place! So happy, and I can't wait to hand the trophy over to Shaun!

We've been meeting so many nice people, and I am surprised how many people Sarah and have met here that know people we both know, or work/have worked with people I have worked with also. Small world!

I've been really busy, It's really been non stop all day, everyday, so I haven't really had a chance to take photos other than today, so I have a few to share. Tomorrow we get all the professional photos they took through out the pageant, so I will share those for sure!

Talent tomorrow, followed by pin up, photo shoots, and then finally the crowning at 7pm. So excited!
Per usual, I should be sleeping, but I'm not, I would love to, but I already have a hard time falling asleep at home, so there is really no chance of me falling asleep in a hotel on a bed, with a pillow that is too fluffy. Yeah, I like them flat like pancakes.

Apparently a tornado hit our room while we were out, 28 shoes between the two of us for 4 days, I'm not surprised.

I wish I could say I was blogging while getting my hair done, but sadly I am just showing the stylist a picture I had already saved on my computer, on how I wanted to my hair done.

Gil Monte has the cutest, grumpiest little chihuahua, Jaws. He bites.

Well it's already 1:52am, and Sarah has been passed out for hours, I guess I better try to get some beauty sleep. We have a long day ahead of us, I am also getting tattooed at the end of the day, so excited! I'll share more about that, and more pictures either Sunday or Monday.

I'm off to dream about lego hearts, pizza fields and city lights.

I hope you are having an amazing weekend!

Night night <3

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.

2010-04-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

I'm currently at PDX waiting to board my plane to Dallas. There is nothing like Jamba Juice and Zombies in the morning. It's a direct flight, so it shouldn't be too bad, but I made sure to bring a netflix disc, and a book, just to be safe.

I packed my bag in a hurry, fingers crossed I remembered to bring everything, and that my bag makes it there in one piece *knock on wood*.

I promised you guys a craft related update (finally, I know), Kirsten and I have been doing some embroidery at work, and I'm enjoying it more than ever. These babies, and more will be in my Etsy shop once I get back from my weekend journey. Can you guess what they are?

I also scrapbooked, I swear it's been so long, mostly because I've been slacking on taking pictures, which I do every winter.

I also have a pretty spring inspired picture to share, and some of my favorite scrapbook embellishments :)

Am I the only one who has craft supplies I love so much, I can't get myself to use them. ever.?

This pretty lady is picking me up in Dallas, we're sharing a room, and we're both competing in the pageant. So fun! I haven't seen Sarah since I left KC, so it will be good to have a long weekend to chat and be girls!

I packed 6 pairs of shoes, not including the ones I am wearing right now, haha. I am known for bringing too much stuff, and clothes that I'll never wear. But better safe than sorry, well at least till you find out your bag is too heavy. Oops.

I'll be updating my blog from the convention/pageant, so please check back. I have my camera packed, although I'm not sure how strict they are on photos. However each contestant is getting a disc with all the photos they took from the pageant on Sunday, so I will post those for sure!

I know some of you ladies commented a few weeks ago and said you'll be there, email or comment again, I'd love to meet you and hangout! <3

Thanks again to everyone who donated money, and for all your sweet comments, I am forever thankful! <3

I have a flight to catch, a movie to watch and a book to read! Wish me luck.

Have a great weekend! xoxo.

obnoxiously awesome.

2010-04-05T18:18:00.000-07:00

I spent the day shopping at NW 23rd today, with one of my amazing co-workers, Kirsten. Rain, Coffee and trash talk. Yeah, it was pretty great.

We stopped by Urban Outfitters where I scored a super cute dress,

This would be really cute with some different tights and oxfords. Love! Now If it would only stop raining.
We also stopped by MAC, which was the main reason we went to NW 23rd in the first place. I secretly avoid going to any MAC mall counter, the stores are so much better. I didn't really get anything exciting, got a new lipstick, and lip pencil. I love their lip products so much, although I feel like their lipstick do dry out my lips sometimes. Any advice as far as a base to apply before the lipstick to make it last all day? I asked at the store, but she pretty much just told me to get their lip primer, which I already have, and I don't feel like it does anything at all.

I started a new painting yesterday at work, pictures to come soon! I've also been really inspired to embroider lately. So I will have some cute craft related things to post soon, promise!

I hope you guys had a wonderful day!
xoxo.

Hah! <3

totally random.

2010-04-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

Oooh, two blog posts in one day! I blame it on chocolate.

For some reason I feel a sudden urge to watch P.S. I love you.

This movie makes me cry, and laugh all at the same time. It's pretty wonderful.

Also I finally found the perfect wallet, thanks to Alena, who I work with, she already owns one of these. Yeah, I am so getting it. It's super cute, big enough to hold all the crap I carry around, and it pretty much just looks like the cutest little clutch purse you have ever seen. Perfect! I am happy to finally get rid of the shitty pink wallet I've been lugging around for the past 5 years. Shame on me.

If you haven't already, you should scroll down for my earlier post, with some cute pictures of paintings, and wonderful craft supplies <3

Night night!

xo.

you'll never be a vegetable - even artichokes have hearts.

2010-04-02T19:22:00.000-07:00

You know when you work on something for hours and hours on end and you either get completely blinded, and are unable to judge whether you are doing something right, or you just end up not liking it at all.
I had one of those moments yesterday after painting all day. I wanted to scrap my Amelie flash, and start over, but instead I put my brushes down, and put the painting away and let it sit over night.
I came to work, not wanting to paint, so I kept myself occupied with some fabric and embroidery for a few hours, till I finally felt ready to take a look. To my surprise I liked my painting better today than yesterday, and decided to finish. I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out, the artichoke is my favorite :)

I've been working on an off on some other small pieces as well, I was gonna scrap all these, but now that I haven't looked at them for a few days I'm thinking they might be OK. Maybe I am just being too hard on myself? Who knows.

I love being at work, and being around the girls, and guys there all day, it's so incredibly inspiring, and refreshing! I do however miss doing other crafts. I have a sock to knit, yes, just one. I have some prints to make, not paint, but gocco. And I have some pictures to scrapbook, albums maybe.

It's been raining non stop all day, but other than being cold and wet, the rain does some amazing things, like, make everything incredibly green and pretty.

I noticed these while walking the dogs this morning, and ran back inside and grabbed my camera <3

Love!

The pageant is only a week away! I have some serious practicing to do for my talent, hah! Other than that I am pretty happy, and excited!

I hope you all had a wonderful week, and that you'll have lots of lovely sunshine this weekend!

xo.

thankful.

2010-03-31T17:09:00.000-07:00

Other than hardly getting any sleep, and weird dreams last night, I am having a pretty good Wednesday. And today I am thankful for,

*pretty colored tissue paper.

*fun tattoos, and ideas for new ones.

*sunshine after rain.

*watching Amelie before work, and being incredibly inspired.

*new friends.

*french fries.

I am currently working on an Amelie inspired flash page, just finished all the drawings, and the background. So excited to paint, and to share!!!

Hope you are having a wonderful Wednesday.

What are you thankful for?

xoxo.

edit: I just finished watching Amelie (again)...and I already want to watch it over. Words cannot describe how much i love that movie. <3

Love letter.

2010-03-29T22:13:00.000-07:00

Dear sailor dress,

The minute I saw you, I knew I had to have you. I picked you up, inspected you, fell in love and carried you into the dressing room. I got undressed, looked in the mirror, got excited, picked you up again, pulled you over my head and around my waist, and of course you looked so cute. But as always, you were way too short. Is it me? Do I have an abnormally long torso? Am I too tall for you? Because I didn't think I was.
I put you back on the hanger, left you with the blond girl at the fitting room, and walked away.

Now hours later, I wish I would have taken you home. A pair of cute tights would have complemented you well.

Love,

Silje.

You probably already guessed that I went shopping today, it was wonderful as always, I thrifted some cute stuff this morning, and went to the mall before dinner. I didn't really find what I was looking for at the mall, so now I am looking at cute dresses online,

Navy Sailor Dress from Ruche.

The Sailor Vintage dress from Natasha Bailie.

Riley Dress from Akira.

Today it rained all day, I haven't experienced this kind of rain since my mom and I were in NYC, I have the best memories of us running around in Time Square trying to find umbrellas, every store was sold out, well other than the touristy markets, where they had the I <3 NY umbrellas. No thank you.

With the wind, and our shitty quality umbrellas, we went through a total of 4 in one day. Hah! And we were of course still wet. But what's a little summer rain when you're having the best time of your life, in one of the best cities on earth, with the best mom anyone could ever have. It was truly magical, rain or no rain.

My mom turned 50 yesterday, I am so sad to have missed such an important day in her life, but knowing she loved what I sent her, and that she has a lovely day makes it a little easier.

What are some of your most wonderful memories? <3

xo.

rainy day

2010-03-28T22:44:00.000-07:00

It started raining as I left work today, and it's been pouring down since. I don't mind rain at all, but it would have been nice if I could find my umbrella, or if I had proper foot wear. Wet shoes = wet toes. Yuck.

But with rain comes soup, I've been craving tomato soup for awhile, and I searched the internet high and low for a great recipe...only to find just that in one of the cookbooks on my shelf. Awesome!

I made the most delicious creamy corn and tomato soup. Looking at the picture now, hours later, it makes me really hungry!

I spent the rest of the evening watching Mad Men, it might just be my new favorite TV show, and of course I am netflixing it. Watching it makes me giggle, and it also makes me want to go back in time when people seemed to care more about appearance and style. Someone build me a time machine, pretty please with sugar on top? K thanks. <3

source

Is it so wrong that I secretly wish I could be a cute, apron wearing housewife? hah!

I have the day off tomorrow, there are so many good vintage stores on Hawthorne, and I plan on stopping by each one. I am on the look out for some good stuff. I also have some paintings to do, some really cute puppies!!

With that said, and my stomach growling, I am gonna grab a quick snack, and try to get some sleep.

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

xoxo.

gym tan laundry.

2010-03-24T20:22:00.000-07:00

Not much to say today other than GTL. God I wish the Jersey Shore was on to cheer me up.

Headed for the gym, since the laundry is already done, and I don't tan.

xo.

Stella was a diver and she was always down.

2010-03-22T21:00:00.000-07:00

Today I slept till 10:30.

Today I dressed great.

Today I had the best lunch.

Today I scored great fabric for a great price.

Today I am incredibly inspired.

Today I listened to Interpol for 4 hrs straight.

Today I am feeling better than ever.

Today I cheated and had an iced, vanilla soy latte.

Today I got asked out for coffee. again.

Today I spent 20 minutes stuck in traffic, and 10 looking for parking.
Today I watched paint dry. Literally.

Today I am out of control.

How did you spend your Monday?

xo.

PS! tea prints are up for sale in my Etsy shop!

it feels good to be this happy

2010-03-19T20:21:00.000-07:00

Today was all in all a really good day. I love the new shop I am working at, and of course the people there. I am doing my first tattoo in a long time, tomorrow at 1pm , exciting! I had two very great customers walk in and book appointments for Sunday, a knitting tattoo, and a bicycle tattoo. Oh hay!

I spent most of my day painting, working on a new flash, some of you might recognize the tea cup from a sketch I posted a while back. Fun! I think the lemon might just be my favorite <3

The one I am working on now is a sweet heart themed page, and it's gonna be oh so cute!
I never thought id actually say this, but I am so happy to finally be out of the house, and to actually have a purpose, and somewhere to be every day. Life is so good right now :)

I've been getting some emails from some sweet ladies about tattoos, if you are interested in getting tattooed by me and live in the Portland area, or are willing to travel for a tattoo, email me and lets make it a day! :)

I am headed for the gym, I have an hour long date with the stair machine, and then some weights. If you work out, do you prefer working out in the morning, or at night, and why?

Have a great night!
xoxo.

PS! I am so thankful to have certain people in my life, it is truly amazing to feel this happy <3

first

2010-03-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

Today was my first day at work at the new shop. I waited for my supplies to show up all day, only my tubes and ink caps showed, very frustrating when you pay $60 for two day shipping.
Other than that it was a good day, all the girls, and guys are super nice. I pretty much painted all day, finishing up what I started last night. It's pretty different from what I usually paint, but I love it.
Prints to come soon!

Dr. Ph Martins Syncromatic on 11x15" cold press water color paper.

I've gotten a few questions about what kind of markers I use, my favorites are Faber Castell PITT artist pens and Sakura Pigma Micron markers, both waterproof and fade resistant. I always trace my drawings with the markers, and paint over with walnut ink for the background, and they never bleed, ever.

I celebrated my first day with a delicious chocolate peanut butter cupcake from Paradox Cafe , it's probably the best cupcake I've ever had, so good. Anything chocolate, and I'm sold.

It'll take me 6 hours at the gym to work this baby off. Hah! So worth it.

I'm excited to go back to work tomorrow, it's always a little scary the first day, and hopefully my supplies will show up so I can do some tattoos! If you want one, you know where to find me <3

I'm currently drooling, and day dreaming over some pretty finds, and of course wanted to share with you lovely ladies <3

source

I am so ready for warmer weather, bare shoulders and green grass between my toes <3

xoxo.

finsihed!

2010-03-15T18:28:00.000-07:00

I finally finished my dress today! About time, I know.
I really only had to add the red border, and do some minor adjustments. I'm so happy with the way it came out!

I misplaced my tripod, so I had to use my ever so trusty photobooth, hah. Real good quality pics, I promise ;)

It looks a little wonky on the hanger, I guess I should have added some hidden straps so it would be easier to hang.

Yesterday I made Norwegian waffles for breakfast, mmm delicious. My grandma used to make the most amazing waffles ever, some of my favorite memories growing up were the many weekends spent at her house listening to the same stories over and over again, I could never get enough :) Eating waffle, after waffle, it's really surprising I wasn't a chubby monkey as a kid!

For dinner I had homemade pizza at a friends house, who built the most amazing pizza oven in his backyard. Food tastes so much better outdoors, plus nothing is better than your very own mini personal pizza fresh from the oven, that you made yourself <3

I just ordered my supplies, and I'll be ready to work this Wednesday, scary, but oh so exciting!

If you live in the area, come see me! <3

I just finished up some sketches for my new set of flash, I'm so in love with the tea cup, and I secretly want another tea tattoo <3 LOVE!!

My friend Sarah, who lives in KC also got picked for the Miss Tattoo USA pageant, and I am super excited cause that means we get to share a room, and live it up all weekend long, hah! Also, I get to hangout with this pretty lady, Diamond, who's competing in the pageant in June <3 So exciting!

How cuuute is she!!! :)

I have some laundry to attend to, then some cleaning up to do, a dinner to eat and then a date with the gym.

I hope you are enjoying the new week!

xo.

confidence boost.

2010-03-13T21:08:00.000-08:00

Woke up to wonderful sunshine today, so nice compared to the cold rain we had yesterday!
I started working on a sketch for a print for you guys, for being so sweet, and donating so much money!
I decided to take step by step photos, like I did with the Alice painting awhile back, thought it would be fun to share the process, plus you guys seemed to like it last time :)

I'll be sending out the prints pretty soon, so keep your eyes open <3

Irene bought this really cute vintage makeup case while she was here, and even though she ended up buying an extra bag, she still couldn't fit it, so she left it here with me. I loaded it up with some of my MAC stuff, and I am so happy to finally have access to it all. All my pigments have been stored in my closet since I moved, and even though this isn't the most organized way of keeping my makeup, well it works, for now.

Can you tell I love MAC? <3

I decided to wear my hair down today, and I think it might just be the best hair day I've had in ages, hah! My hair is so incredibly thick, and nearly impossible to style, today it was just right though, so happy! :)

I didn't even realize how long my hair is getting till after I took the picture! So awesome, since I've been trying to grow it our forever! Oh the little joys of life :)

I went to the gym earlier today, did my cardio, then weights. While I was doing my sit ups I noticed these two guys staring at me, I just figured they were checking out my tattoos. I finished my work out, feeling oh so sweaty and gross, my hair was super messy, and I was just so ready to go home and shower.

I walk downstairs to the locker, noticing the two guys hanging around. I grab all my stuff, and as I walk out I notice them again, standing by the door, waiting. Awkward!

So the more heavily tattooed guy out of the two held the door open for me, I said thanks, and walked down the long hallway, him the opposite way. As I get close to the door, I hear someone running, surely enough it was him. "hey, I just wanted to let you know I think you're really attractive". I giggle, and smile, and say thank you, once again, and walk away. I get outside and I hear him shouting "hey, do you wanna get coffee with me?".

It was sorta funny, and very awkward all at the same time. And I felt slightly bad, although I must admit, it was a total confidence boost, and totally random.

I just finished my dinner, and I'm watching the Unit, anyone else watch that show? It's so good!

Headed for the gym in a bit for my second cardio. I love working out during the weekend, well at least at night, not having to stand in line, and wait for people to finish is awesome. I am so impatient!

How did you spend your Saturday?

xo.

all kinds of good news!

2010-03-12T17:47:00.000-08:00

First of all, I wanna thank you pretty ladies for all your wonderful comments, and emails <3 , and for all the donations. Wow! You are truly incredible!

You ladies have donated $ 604! Way more than I ever expected, and hoped to get, so I am truly so thankful! I really couldn't do this without you :)

I got up super early this morning, after a long night with hardly any sleep, due to nerves mostly. I had my delicious protein shake, hopped in the car, and drove an hour away to Salem, to take the test to get licensed to tattoo. Well guess what, of course I missed the first question, and was thinking it was all down hill from there, I took a deep breather, skipped the questions I wasn't so sure about, and saved them for last, and aced the test! Woohoo! I am officially licensed to tattoo in the state of Oregon! Finally!
I am so glad it's over and done with, I am so over studying! And so ready to start work, and tattoo again! :)

I shipped off the giant package to my mom and my nephew the other day, I can't wait till she gets it, so many cute goodies for her 50's birthday, I wish I could celebrate it with her <3 Maybe her next 50th ;)
Here are the slippers I knitted for her, they came out super cute, and I am in love with the color! Hopefully she will be too <3

I got a few questions about how long they took to knit, and I am happy to share that they are a super fast knit, only a few hours! Attaching all the pieces once you are done is the least fun part, and of course waiting for them to felt, and having to check on them every 5 minutes. I am just way too impatient for that! hah!

I also had planned to knit a toy for my nephew, Kasper, but was short of time, so I made him a little stuffed toy instead. How cute is he! :)

It's been a long day, I am so hungry, but I think I'm gonna hold out till dinner. Only hour and a half, gah! I'm gonna attempt, well no, I'm gonna quit sugar, actually I already did as of yesterday. This should be pretty interesting as I live for sugar. I just feel so incredibly disgusting after a week of binging with Irene, it's hard work showing someone around, and taking them to eat 8 billion times a day. Trust me, I feel slightly expanded if you know what I mean. Hah!
I'm finally back at the gym too, after a little lazy break. It feels so good to be back, and it makes me wonder why I didn't go for awhile. Never again! I pushed myself so hard last night, and I hurt in all kinds of places today. Love.

I also started reading a new book, didn't get very far yet, as I have been incredibly busy, but so far so good. Actually, really good. It's incredibly funny, and I was sold after the first page. And what book might this be you ask?

"Confessions of a recovering slut: and other love stories"by Hollis Gillespie.

"When I put on my special Robo bra, the kind that magically grabs fat from my ass and pushes it all the way around so it sits up under my chin, I must say I can fake people into thinking I have cleavage as big as the butt crack of a college freshman. "

Love you all,
S.

i got picked!

2010-03-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

Wow, exciting news!
After dropping off Irene at the airport I came home to an exciting email, I got picked to be one of the contestants at Miss Tattoo USA, in Dallas in April!

So here I am, I want to yes, and please and thank you, I would love to go, but, I don't know if I can afford, or justify spending $300 on a plane ticket, plus the cost of a hotel for the weekend, when I haven't had an income in the last 9 months. What do you think? Sure, it's a once in a lifetime experience, and sure it would be so much fun, and who knows what it could lead to. What do you think? Rent, and food vs. tattoo pageant? hah!

Cecily, who I was lucky to tattoo in KC, super cute girl, and full of great ideas suggested I should ask for donations, as it is common for pageants. So I'm taking this pretty girls advice, and I am asking you to please donate a few dollars if you can, it can be as much, or as little as you want. Of course I will pick 3 of the people donating, after the pageant, and send out some super cute thank you packages.

If you wanna help me compete in Miss Tattoo USA, Dallas, please click the donation button at the top, right side of this page. If you do donate, please leave a note so I know what it's for, that way it will be easier to pick 3 people for the packages. <3

You are all so wonderful <3 And who all of you live in the Dallas area? Maybe we could meet up? I'll be there all weekend, April 9-11.

The internet at my house is currently down, so I am at a coffee shop across the street, sipping on the worst iced vanilla soy latte ever, haha. I have some cute pictures of some crafty stuff I've been working on lately that I wanna share, it will have to wait though as I have limited internet access. Hopefully it will only be a few hours, or a day or so till I am back, and up and running! :)

I hope you all had a wonderful week <3

xoxo

edit, $474 raised so far, you ladies are truly wonderful <3 Thank you!

I also made a fan page on facebook for friends and people who want to show a little support by becoming a fan :)

xo.

change.

2010-03-08T21:44:00.000-08:00

I feel like I've had the same hairstyle for a million years. I have crazy thick viking hair, so it's impossible to style, and I am in desperate need of a change. If you live in Portland, where do you recommend getting a hair cut? No fancy shmancy places, please.

Not really sure what I'd like to do, since I'm trying to grow it out, and would like some length, maybe I should go back to a side bang, or a straight, or slightly curved bang.

Any ideas?

xoxo.

delicious french fry

2010-03-07T16:45:00.000-08:00

It has been a rediciolus last few days. Staying up late, getting up early. Just last night we stayed up till 4 am, and got up at 7 am this morning. Why? I have no idea.
Irene landed safely in Portland Friday right after noon, so good to see her again <3 It's almost like I never left, and we're right back to where we were months ago. Fun!
We've shopped, vintage and new, we went to the coast, got stuck in the tide, wet shoes and sandy toes, cotton candy and lollipops, SO much food, I swear, we've been eating non stop, and I'm to the point where I feel like I'm gonna burst at the seams. Hah!
Portland has so many great things to offer, I am enjoying showing Irene around so much! And I am so happy that she loves it so much, she wants to move here. But why wouldn't you?

Today we went to the Saturday market, on a Sunday. We had great coffee, and amazing elephant ears covered in sugar and cinnamon. We walked around and looked at all the art, and people. And while Irene and I were posing for this picture,

a guy told me I looked like a delicious french fry with ketchup. Just the look I was going for. Hah!

Delicious indeed.

We drive to NW 23rd after the market, finally went to MAC, oh yes <3 Irene and I used to go there once a week when we worked together, it was so fun to shop there together again!

I got a new lipstick, lipliner, concealer and blush. Fantastic!

Maybe a movie or go out tonight, then shopping again tomorrow. I'm on the look out for some cute shoes and a jacket.

Hope you are having a fun weekend too! <3

happy happy. tired.

2010-03-05T00:29:00.000-08:00

We're only talking hours now till one of my bestest little friends, Irene is coming to visit. Eeep! I am freaking out, I am so excited! I'm picking her up tomorrow around noon. I already did a million things today to keep myself busy so time would go by faster! yay!

Yesterday I decided to send in an application to Miss Tattoo USA, yeah..I know, crazy right? I have the worst stage fright ever, so wish me luck, and maybe I'll get picked, and will for sure have to overcome my fears. Awesome.

With a little help from Danielle, we pretty much came up with the best idea ever as my talent, oh yes. I'll share more once I hear back from them :)

So it's pretty much like any other pageant, tons of forms to fill out, and sign. You have to present a casual day look, a classy evening look, and then there is the swim suit, and of course the talent show. All this, but with lots of heavily tattooed girls. My friend Sarah in KC entered too.

Thank you all for your lovely ideas for things to knit for my little nephew, I am so bummed I won't have time to knit anything as I have to ship the package out pretty soon, so I think I decided to make him a stuffed toy. And save the knitted toy for later :)

The slippers for my mom are done, I am still waiting for them to dry so I can sew the buttons on, and take pictures, they came out sooo cute! <3 I can't wait to share!

I was nominated for a blog award, by this beautiful lady, thank you so much <3

The rules of the award are:

1) Copy the award to my blog
2) Link to the person who has given me this award
3) Tell 7 interesting things about myself
4) Choose 7 other blogs that I want to give this award to
5) Link to their blogs
6) Comment on their blogs that I have given them this award.

So since I shared 10+ somewhat interesting things about me in an earlier blog post, I am linking to that instead of typing them all over.

And I nominate!

1. Gun Hip, Swollen Lip

2. Sometimes Sweet

3. Strumpet's Crumpet's

4. Oh my deer!

5. What I like today

6. Mugsy boo

7. Silje Silje

Amazing, fun blogs <3 Enjoy.

I'm off to bed. I hope you had a fun day!

xoxo.

multitasking.

2010-03-03T11:37:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share some fun projects I am working on right now. Between my mom turning 50, my nephews first birthday, a surprise for my dad, and myself finally learning to sew garments I am keeping myself quite busy these days.

I'm one sock down, one to go - halfway finished with these "hunter socks" for my dad. The pattern is free, and if you are registered at Ravelry.com, you can download it.

I'm knitting slippers for my mom, again. I have no clue what my mom does, but I am suspecting she eats slippers for breakfast, this will be her 4th pair. Haha! This time I will be felting them after they are knitted, and hopefully that will make them last a little longer. ...unless she really does eat them!

This pattern, French press felted slippers, is also on Ravelry.com , this one is not free though, but totally worth every $.

This is what they will look like once they are done, cute right?

I used the skirt, and the midriff pattern pieces, and made my own bodice pattern, and I am currently working on a new super cute, strapless dress! Almost finished! I used fabric that my mom sent me for Christmas, and it only took 1 yard! Awesome! :)

Gonna add a touch of red, I'll share a another picture once it is finished :)

So I drove an hour out to Salem yesterday to take the test to get licensed, I didn't get much sleep the night before, and I was super nervous. The test was a two part test, the first part 100 questions, the second part 50 questions, and they give you two hours to finish. I was doing great at first, but English being my second language. Don't get me wrong, I can do just fine on a day to day basis, talking to people, write, no problem, but once it gets formal, and words that I don't use daily are being used, it gets a little tough. So there I was super confused, and had to guess on a few questions since I didn't know what certain words meant. It was so frustrating!

So with that said, I passed one part, failed the other. I missed by two questions I think. Total bummer, I know. And this makes me feel so incredible stupid. Luckily I remember the questions I answered, incorrectly, and can study those, and re-take the test in 7 days.

I am still so very, very thankful for all your good luck wishes and happy thoughts, you guys are the best <3

Josh came home from work with a cupcake from Saint Cupcake, the cutest little bakery/boutique you have ever seen. Love!!!

With that said, I have some socks, slippers, and a dress to finish. I also want to sew or knit a little toy for my nephew, any good ideas or links to patterns?

Only two days left til Irene comes to visit for 5 days, aweeesome! <3

I hope you have the most wonderful day.

xoxo

Parfait.

2010-02-28T19:21:00.000-08:00

Another day with beautiful, sunny weather, and another day spent at the dog park, and doing crafts. Perfect!

Being that I am so impatient, remember I mentioned something about wanting to take a class on learning to sew clothes, well of course I just couldn't wait. I went and picked out a fabric I loved at Cool Cottons, and decided that I better just try to figure this out on my own.
This being my very first time making any sewn garment I was happy to find that the instructions were so easy to follow, I struggled a bit with the invisible zipper, but it might just have been lack of sleep, and my brain saying "stop, you skipped breakfast and lunch, time to take a break."

I am really happy with the way it turned out, and I just love the pockets, super cute! I can't wait to try her other pattern, "Chantilly."

Here it is, "Parfait."

I wish my mom was here so I could show her in person, she would be so proud. :)

Who else are making garments from the Colette patterns? And if sewing isn't, what are you working on right now?

Dinner time!

xoxo.

Etsy shop update

2010-02-27T13:43:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to say thanks for all the fun, and positive comments regarding my previous post, and also, thank you, for sharing some of your secrets! They were so fun to read!

I received a cute little package yesterday all the way from Australia, from the lovely Miss Mardi. Thank you darling, you are so sweet <3
She sent me the cutest scarf, in one of my favorite colors, pink. It has the most darling chihuahua print on it, so of course Cupcake likes it too. Aww <3

I got so many request to share baby pictures of me with red hair. Unfortunately my baby pictures, including all my pictures from '04-'09 are all on my external hard drive, which crashed :( I'm am totally bummed about it, I would love to share. Maybe I can get my mom to scan some.

I decided to put up listings on Etsy for the pet, and children portraits, since I've been getting so many emails about them, it's getting hard to keep track, so this might be easier for both you and me. :)

I am headed to Bolt for some fabrics, and to Back to Eden Bakery Boutique for some ice cream.

Hope you are having a wonderful Saturday!

xo.