Monday, January 23, 2012

fresh film.

Earlier this month, I promised to post some of the pictures I had taken with my recently acquired Nikon FM10 film camera.

Here's a few:



I need to edit the rest, which is a long process of cropping individual photos from scanned documents. It's such a pain.

Even worse, the quality of the scanner is pretty shoddy, so the photos are not as vibrant post-scan. I had to do some photo editing on the computer in addition. I'm still fairly happy with the results. I think I'll have a jolly good time learning the quirks of film photography.



Wednesday, January 18, 2012

beige blast.

Anyone who has been around me for any period of time can discern that I dabble in some pretty wild nail colors.

I don't do manicures or pedicures because I hate sitting in seats. I fidget. Then I mess up my nails. Then I see how much of the polish I can peel off. It's just a lost expense for me.




I still have some fun with nail colors. I usually buy a few in the States before coming back to France. I prefer Revlon and Sally Hansen and haven't easily found it here.
That doesn't mean it doesn't exist...but I'm of a lazier persuasion.


I used Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri "Beige Blast" nail polish. It gives a subtle pop to dark outfits. Usually I wear dark reds in the winter time, but I like the idea of wearing a "winter white" on my nails.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

like butter.

Whenever I watch Top Chef, I always get the mood to throw down in the kitchen. Simultaneously while watching the shows, I'll head over to some recipe websites, finding the next recipe to be conquered.

Though I brought myself up to date on the recent season of Top Chef, I neglected some other duties...like grocery shopping. But with a few ingredients, I whipped up something that I'll be able to enjoy tomorrow, and, if it lasts, well into the week.

I really like this recipe because it's not as difficult as that boiling water recipe, and my friends have seemed to enjoy it. To my face at least. Instead of regular butter, it adds a new dimension to the meal.
"Where did you get that artisanal butter? It's magical!"
"Oh, this? I made it myself! It's my own recipe!"

You almost sound cultured. Or like a foodie, though they're really one in the same. :-P

Herbed Butter

What You'll Need:

-half a stick of unsalted or demi-sel butter
-chives, ciboulette
-1/2 shallots, échalote
-pepper, poivre


First, you'll want your butter slightly softened, so either cut the butter into smaller pieces at the start, or let the butter sit before you cut.
By refrigerator doesn't get that cold, so I can usually start by cutting the butter and letting it sit while I prepare the other ingredients.

Next, chop the chives and mince the shallots. Let those rest aside.

Sprinkle, to taste, the pepper on top of the butter. I usually put 2-3 pinches of pepper.
I also add a little Mrs. Dash spice mix (the yellow bottle), but it's not everywhere, and for this butter, I opted not to put it in.


Once the butter is soft, mash it together using a fork. Add chives and shallots and continue mashing and folding the butter until it is well mixed.



Then, eat with your favorite bread (I like the baguette au pavot.) or store for later eating!
Honestly, it's incredibly easy, but looks super fancy for the diners. Happy eating!


I think I might try doing a weekly wine tasting. One bottle a week? Time flies, but I liked recognizing some French wines in the United States, so why not try and really get to know my wines?

Monday, January 16, 2012

sh*t bougie girls say.

Are there French versions of sh*t people say videos? I'll have to check on that.

This video is "Sh*t Bougie Girls Say." I have to admit, I think they missed a few things like my favorite phrase, "I cannot with <insert noun here>."

My favorite scene is that in the kitchen when he's shouting out the objects intended to be in the refrigerator. I have lived that moment several times in my parents' home. Apparently, balsamic vinegar and olive oil are not popular ingredients in my household. And sparkling water is just not consumed unless I buy it.

They also should have listed about where a "bougie" girl shops. There are preferences.
In the States:  Target>Walmart
though you can find pretty much the same things outside of clothing items
In Paris: Monoprix=Carrefour>Franprix>Dia
I think my Parisians can figure this one out. 

Anyways, back to the actual video.




I need to integrate "ratchet" into my vocabulary.

Sunday, January 15, 2012

Saturday, January 14, 2012

listen: iggy azalea "the last song".


 New artist Iggy Azalea is breaking boundaries, but I'm not going to talk about that. Look at the Youtube comments and other articles for that.

I think she's someone to watch in the next year or so. She's impressive. So far, I've liked much of her music. Her accent trips me up as she's Australian, but she's good. And this video is beautiful.

Did I mention she's a female rap artist? Check it.

Also see her video "My World" and if you're scandalous enough, listen to her song "Pu$$y." Thoughts?

suzani.

Back in high school, I made a pact with myself: Don't be caught dead with anything Vera Bradley. In college at the University of Georgia, I renewed my vows and again promised to never subscribe to anything Vera even though every girl around me seemed to (along with Longchamp and Northface). Fast forward to the present day...


Vera is in my life.

 I've been "collecting" my share of bookbags over the years, then switched to large purses and totes in the later years of high school and college. But let me tell you...large purses can wear down a healthy back. Once I purchased my bicycle, I realized I needed to rethink my book carriers.

For the last 6 months, I've been going through my share of bags to determine which would be the best for biking. Turns out, the UO backpack that I purchased is the best for school/work, but terrible for nights out, light packing, etc. If I carry a book, I have to move from the purse to the backpack, and then I fill the backpack with nonessentials just because...

Hopefully, with this smaller backpack, I'll enjoy carrying things around. Mostly, I'll probably enjoy keeping the weight limit down.

The "Suzani" pattern is simple and large, something I didn't see in the other patterns shown online. The colors were bright, but not fluorescent. I don't feel like I'm deciphering a code, which, to me, is the downfall of many VB patterns. There's just too much going on.

I've managed to fit my two cameras, wallet and a book, with some space for gloves or even a scarf. The magnetic flap is handy and the hidden zipper pocket on the back is also nice for storing valuables away from pick pockets, which are apparently treacherous in Paris. I've never experienced it.

I guess the point is is that sometimes you can make some concessions to long-held vows, as long as you do it wisely. Vera is still ruins the lives and outfits of many women today, but if you know how to work it well, then by all means, go for it. Don't hinder yourself.


A bit of a styling side note. If you're thinking about purchasing a VB bag, make sure you consider your outfit holistically. Since many of her bags feature a bright and busy pattern, consider toning down your outfit, making your bag the playful component. I like to wear black with my backpack, but that's an easy choice. If you are wary of the patterns, VB's "Vera Vera" collection offers styles in single colors.
Also, DO NOT bring a VB purse, clutch, bag, whatever, to a cocktail event. Some of these website photographs depict this as an okay thing to do. It's not.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

nyt: straight talk.


Image courtesy of nytimes.com

Came across a very interesting article in the New York Times today discussing the bloggers in men's fashion.
I've been following a couple of these bloggers, but it's nice to be introduced to a few others that inspire.

The main defining feature of these bloggeurs is that they approach men's fashion with a masculine angle not often presented on the runways. I find that many men can't even touch the subject of shopping without a bit of fear and uncertainty. These men will guide you through all of that.

New discovery: Jake Davis' Test Shots. Exactly what I need in the AM.

If you have the time, check out the article and the bloggers.
"Straight Talk: A New Breed of Fashion Bloggers"