Sometimes, when at a road block creatively, one must look for inspiration. Things that inspire both design and growth. And now, how easily accessable the internet has become, and how wide spread it can be, there is then, in turn, a vast amount of it out there. One site I found a few weeks ago is The Dieline. It's a site that focuses on packaging design, but my god, does it have some amazing stuff. And of course, makes me think that I have a long way to go if I want to be that good. I know, I know, I have always been my hardest critic. When I hit points of self judgement, I remember a few years back when 2 of my old design teachers told me that my greatest faults were being too hard on myself and not realizing I was/had the potential to be really good. They told me that once I got past that, that then, I could really shine. Let's just say, I'm getting there, in my own way.
Finally got the sewing machine to work properly. Needed a bobbin, and then I was good to go. I'd like to think the score now is, Me 1, Sewing Machine 1. It can only get better, right? HA! Not too much more left.... Then onto the dress!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Sewing Machine War
Finally, today of all days I am ready to sew and piece together my ever elusive skirt. One problem. My war with the sewing machine. Lamest thing ever if you ask me. Now I admit, it's been a damn long time since I touched one, and from my un-vivid memories, it wasn't such a complicated thing. You thread it, get some spare fabric (for testing), plug it in, and you're good to go. HA! If only it was that easy. Frustration is looming high over my head, and the only thing I can think of when trying to come down and think about the problem at hand, is how uncool it is to not be so easy. I've tried to work on other projects, because I should, but I just can't. That damn sewing machine is driving me nuts. And just at a time when I'm in the perfect state of mind to wrap this project up. Errr. Hopefully I will be victorious in my sewing machine war. For now though, the score is: Me 0, Sewing Machine 1. What a bummer.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Heart Filled Goodness
After having epic results with my new bus. cards and the photographic process, I'm in an exceptionally good mood and uber optimistic for the year ahead. Plus, my new red ankle boots arrived today via UPS. What more could a girl ask for? Sometimes, even when money's tight, one must treat themselves to something that will bring long term happiness. This time around, I have chosen to go with shoes; outfits to flatter them buzzing in my mind long before they even arrived. And once I'm finally done making the long awaited skirt I've been talking about and slowly working on, I will be onto a cute summery type dress that can easily be paired with the new boots and tights and shirts when needed.
In the meantime, I thought I would share a few things that I'm more than smitten with.
1_ Voodoo Doughnuts. Yum. Always good at any time and should be consumed on a regular basis.
2_ Miss Lily Bean. Technically she's my Dads dog, but we've had a connection from the beginning. In fact, when picking her out of a litter of 10, she was the one I wanted and the one I knew who would protect and take care of my Dad when I moved to London. Little did we know I would be back in no time. She's the apple of my eye and plans to create an active running schedule is in the works. Portland watch out!
3_ My new red ankle boots. They're lovely and comfy and I can't wait to show them off tonight at the Working In A Creative Economy talk with GS. And yeah, in my excitement of their arrival, I was a bit of a dork. Instead of just taking a photo from the website I ordered them from, ModCloth, I took a photo myself and cropped out the background. What can I say, I'm on a role with things like that.
4_ The photo below. A friend on fb currently has this as their main profile picture. Took me a second, but man, when you get it, you can't help but laugh, and think, 'WTF! Why would anyone want that on their body long term?' Still, since it's not my body, I like it, quite a bit. Obviously enough to include it in my Smitten list of things that make me smile. Hmm.... funny how the mind works.
5_ Motivational Speaker, Matthew Kelly. GS sent me a link the other day to the video below after reading my entry titled, 'First Amendment'. MK doesn't start to speak until about 10 min. in, so I would recommend pausing the video until you can start it there. He's talking at a church, so fore warning, he does touch upon God quite a bit, especially in the beginning. Being the ultra un-religious person I am, and like GS mentioned in his email to me, just swap out God with THE UNIVERSE. And regardless if religion is involved or not, MK makes some exceptionally good points about how to live life regardless of what you believe. It was the perfect mood lifter and inspiration to get me out of a mild funk and back on track work wise. Enjoy!
In the meantime, I thought I would share a few things that I'm more than smitten with.
1_ Voodoo Doughnuts. Yum. Always good at any time and should be consumed on a regular basis.
2_ Miss Lily Bean. Technically she's my Dads dog, but we've had a connection from the beginning. In fact, when picking her out of a litter of 10, she was the one I wanted and the one I knew who would protect and take care of my Dad when I moved to London. Little did we know I would be back in no time. She's the apple of my eye and plans to create an active running schedule is in the works. Portland watch out!
3_ My new red ankle boots. They're lovely and comfy and I can't wait to show them off tonight at the Working In A Creative Economy talk with GS. And yeah, in my excitement of their arrival, I was a bit of a dork. Instead of just taking a photo from the website I ordered them from, ModCloth, I took a photo myself and cropped out the background. What can I say, I'm on a role with things like that.
4_ The photo below. A friend on fb currently has this as their main profile picture. Took me a second, but man, when you get it, you can't help but laugh, and think, 'WTF! Why would anyone want that on their body long term?' Still, since it's not my body, I like it, quite a bit. Obviously enough to include it in my Smitten list of things that make me smile. Hmm.... funny how the mind works.
5_ Motivational Speaker, Matthew Kelly. GS sent me a link the other day to the video below after reading my entry titled, 'First Amendment'. MK doesn't start to speak until about 10 min. in, so I would recommend pausing the video until you can start it there. He's talking at a church, so fore warning, he does touch upon God quite a bit, especially in the beginning. Being the ultra un-religious person I am, and like GS mentioned in his email to me, just swap out God with THE UNIVERSE. And regardless if religion is involved or not, MK makes some exceptionally good points about how to live life regardless of what you believe. It was the perfect mood lifter and inspiration to get me out of a mild funk and back on track work wise. Enjoy!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Safari Series Part Trois, Le Fin
Yes, after a semi long wait.... TADA! My new bus. cards and their packaging. As many people know, I typically just can't do 1 version. And like always, I have stayed true to my old ways coming up with not 1 bus. card design, but 9 (border lining on 10) and 3 packaging design categories. Each 'booklet' contains 20 randomly designed bus. cards and can easily be ripped out when needed, possibly allowing the packaging to be reused if desired.
Everything was designed, drawn, printed, cut, assembled, photographed and edited/cropped by moi. Yes, I know, apparently I have some talent hidden away somewhere and when touched upon, can maybe, just maybe, create some rad shit. And I might add, none of the photos were edited color wise except for the close ups of the animals, and that was still quite minimal.
I have to say that for a less then two week project, I had way too much fun. And I learned a lot about some of the different kinds of animals in Africa, primarily the Zebra. I absolutely love them and might have discovered a mild obsession with them. Everything about them fascinates me. The creatures themselves, horses but not. The pattern of their stripes and how each side of their body is completely different from the other. Heard sizes range on average between 4-12 Zebras.They're viciousness with outsiders... Did you know that if a Zebra comes upon a heard that is not their own, that the pack they come upon will instantly attack and kill them. Whoa... stellar instincts. On the other hand, if a Zebra is to be introduced into a new heard, it must been done slowly with fences in-between, and then, if lucky over time, the heard will allow that outsider in. SanWild is a wildlife rehabilitation and sanctuary based in the Northern Province of South Africa. I saw a show last week on Animal Planet about it... It was focusing on 3 rescued baby orphan Zebras and the process to introduce them into a heard and release them back into the park. I want to go there now. Basically, I have now added SanWild and South Africa to my list of top places I would like to travel to. Now to figure out when that might be....
Everything was designed, drawn, printed, cut, assembled, photographed and edited/cropped by moi. Yes, I know, apparently I have some talent hidden away somewhere and when touched upon, can maybe, just maybe, create some rad shit. And I might add, none of the photos were edited color wise except for the close ups of the animals, and that was still quite minimal.
I have to say that for a less then two week project, I had way too much fun. And I learned a lot about some of the different kinds of animals in Africa, primarily the Zebra. I absolutely love them and might have discovered a mild obsession with them. Everything about them fascinates me. The creatures themselves, horses but not. The pattern of their stripes and how each side of their body is completely different from the other. Heard sizes range on average between 4-12 Zebras.They're viciousness with outsiders... Did you know that if a Zebra comes upon a heard that is not their own, that the pack they come upon will instantly attack and kill them. Whoa... stellar instincts. On the other hand, if a Zebra is to be introduced into a new heard, it must been done slowly with fences in-between, and then, if lucky over time, the heard will allow that outsider in. SanWild is a wildlife rehabilitation and sanctuary based in the Northern Province of South Africa. I saw a show last week on Animal Planet about it... It was focusing on 3 rescued baby orphan Zebras and the process to introduce them into a heard and release them back into the park. I want to go there now. Basically, I have now added SanWild and South Africa to my list of top places I would like to travel to. Now to figure out when that might be....
© Abeille Design 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
First Amendment
Essentially, the U.S. was created with freedom in mind. A rebellion to say the least. One of those freedoms was the first amendment, which involves freedom of speech and freedom of press. By CHOOSING to have a blog of any nature, I am aloud to express my freedom of speech publicly, and often to my discretion. It is the viewer who CHOOSES to continue to read, regardless of what I write, and it is not my sole responsibility to censor my opinions and thoughts for thus reader. Now I understand that sometimes I have aired some dirty laundry that maybe I shouldn't have. But, I CHOSE to, for many reasons. And out of respect for people I CHOOSE to bring into my blogging realm, I decided long ago that full names were never going to be used.
So, does that make me rude? I certainly don't think so. And I admit, that yes, when I CHOOSE to talk about someone, and that person CHOOSES to read my blog, that they will in turn know that I have CHOSEN to talk about them. Does everyone know who I talk about all the time? No. Is it frustrating and complete bullshit when you then get 'attacked' verbally by non-partisans on the issue? Yes. So I will say this, empowering my first amendment right as an American... Get off your high rocker. I get it, I do, you're upset. It happens. But what's the point of getting in the middle of a situation when you have no priority in being there? Do you honestly think you are helping? Because you're not. I make my points and opinions about situations and people based on facts given to me, often by the person I am CHOOSING to make an opinion about. And yes, I am referring to an old friend who almost killed themselves. Good lord. I said it loud and clear. Shoot me. My opinions on them and the way they have and are CHOOSING to live their life, is based solely on everything they have told me. So, GROW UP! Please, someone, tell me, who supports someone's drinking, even 'responsibly' after an 'incident' where they wind up in the hospital, oh less than a month later? Who? Because honestly, I can't think of anyone who would. Well, none of my good friends anyways.
The fact of the matter is, I voiced an opinion on a situation because I cared for that person, their long term well being, and the young life that they are responsible for. That person in turn, CHOSE to reject that gesture of concern and thoughtfulness. I live with the belief that if you care about someone, and you genuinely feel that something is wrong, then you tell them and try to do what you can to help... because you care. Too many people tend to look away in situations that make them uncomfortable because they just don't want to deal with it, and I get that. But sometimes you just can't run away and turn a blind eye.
Although, as of late, I am questioning the point of speaking out of concern. No one likes to try and help someone, and then, in turn, get a virtual slap in the face via nasty emails from that person and one of their 'good' friends. Feelings get hurt. Hell, if I wanted to, I could take the low road to try and make myself feel better, if even for a moment. I could name names and spill dirty things. But I CHOOSE not too. Why? Because that's not who I am. There's no need to continue on in this fashion. I've stated my concern, they rejected it, and now it's time to move on. Done and done.
With that, I will leave my last words of this entry to Regina Spektor, as the truth is always just a line....
So, does that make me rude? I certainly don't think so. And I admit, that yes, when I CHOOSE to talk about someone, and that person CHOOSES to read my blog, that they will in turn know that I have CHOSEN to talk about them. Does everyone know who I talk about all the time? No. Is it frustrating and complete bullshit when you then get 'attacked' verbally by non-partisans on the issue? Yes. So I will say this, empowering my first amendment right as an American... Get off your high rocker. I get it, I do, you're upset. It happens. But what's the point of getting in the middle of a situation when you have no priority in being there? Do you honestly think you are helping? Because you're not. I make my points and opinions about situations and people based on facts given to me, often by the person I am CHOOSING to make an opinion about. And yes, I am referring to an old friend who almost killed themselves. Good lord. I said it loud and clear. Shoot me. My opinions on them and the way they have and are CHOOSING to live their life, is based solely on everything they have told me. So, GROW UP! Please, someone, tell me, who supports someone's drinking, even 'responsibly' after an 'incident' where they wind up in the hospital, oh less than a month later? Who? Because honestly, I can't think of anyone who would. Well, none of my good friends anyways.
The fact of the matter is, I voiced an opinion on a situation because I cared for that person, their long term well being, and the young life that they are responsible for. That person in turn, CHOSE to reject that gesture of concern and thoughtfulness. I live with the belief that if you care about someone, and you genuinely feel that something is wrong, then you tell them and try to do what you can to help... because you care. Too many people tend to look away in situations that make them uncomfortable because they just don't want to deal with it, and I get that. But sometimes you just can't run away and turn a blind eye.
Although, as of late, I am questioning the point of speaking out of concern. No one likes to try and help someone, and then, in turn, get a virtual slap in the face via nasty emails from that person and one of their 'good' friends. Feelings get hurt. Hell, if I wanted to, I could take the low road to try and make myself feel better, if even for a moment. I could name names and spill dirty things. But I CHOOSE not too. Why? Because that's not who I am. There's no need to continue on in this fashion. I've stated my concern, they rejected it, and now it's time to move on. Done and done.
With that, I will leave my last words of this entry to Regina Spektor, as the truth is always just a line....
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Spring Cleaning And More Weirdos
This spring, like many, I have decided to do a little spring cleaning. For me, it's not necessarily in the household, going through my things and cleaning out, kind of cleaning. This year, it's focused on my life and preparing for goodness to come in the coming months, and most importantly, clearing out people that no longer apply to my life.
As much as I know some people need to go (particularly one person), it's not easy. It's not easy because they are on a quick descent to killing themselves and I have made the personal decision to not stand by and watch. Things might have been different if they weren't in denial, but they are, and show signs that they don't want to change their behavior. And for that reason alone, I can't be there to support them. I was appalled today when on fb (yeah, I know what you're thinking) I saw how they posted about how they are once again drinking. Mind you, only a few weeks ago they woke up in the hospital strapped to a bed and almost died from drinking too much. I also saw how they're dating, a lot, and having these random men around their 3 1/2 year old daughter. It's irritating and frustrating and a prime example of why you shouldn't bring a child into this world until you are stable enough, emotionally and financially, and with a partner. Like puppies, babies grow up, and won't always be there 'to love you'.
Anyways, that brings me to a new topic: weirdos and creepers and terrible pick up lines. As some know, I have been attracting this kind of attention for the last few weeks. Last night, while at the mall with NJ, some dude/creeper walks out towards us, looks me up and down, and says "You're my favorite, I choose you". Come on. Really? I think I'm going to lock myself indoors for a while and hide out. And yes, I'm totally serious. What's the point? They're everywhere nowadays and it doesn't seem like you can go out without running into at least one.
As much as I know some people need to go (particularly one person), it's not easy. It's not easy because they are on a quick descent to killing themselves and I have made the personal decision to not stand by and watch. Things might have been different if they weren't in denial, but they are, and show signs that they don't want to change their behavior. And for that reason alone, I can't be there to support them. I was appalled today when on fb (yeah, I know what you're thinking) I saw how they posted about how they are once again drinking. Mind you, only a few weeks ago they woke up in the hospital strapped to a bed and almost died from drinking too much. I also saw how they're dating, a lot, and having these random men around their 3 1/2 year old daughter. It's irritating and frustrating and a prime example of why you shouldn't bring a child into this world until you are stable enough, emotionally and financially, and with a partner. Like puppies, babies grow up, and won't always be there 'to love you'.
Anyways, that brings me to a new topic: weirdos and creepers and terrible pick up lines. As some know, I have been attracting this kind of attention for the last few weeks. Last night, while at the mall with NJ, some dude/creeper walks out towards us, looks me up and down, and says "You're my favorite, I choose you". Come on. Really? I think I'm going to lock myself indoors for a while and hide out. And yes, I'm totally serious. What's the point? They're everywhere nowadays and it doesn't seem like you can go out without running into at least one.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Airport Boycott...
.... Well, that is until it's my turn again. Yes, today, after picking up not one, but two people at the airport at different times, and having a total of 3 airport trips in 4 days, I have decided that I will not be returning until I am the one getting on an airplane. Don't get me wrong, I have no qualms about helping people out when it comes to drop offs/pick-ups. But the 2nd trip ended up being by far one of my worst experiences at an airport and it was 11:45 PM!!!!! Yes, there were 2 long lines to even pick someone up and then after I pulled to the side to pick up the person, who was not out front just yet, and waited. I was at the end of the arrival area and there was still tones of room around me. Then, this bitchy airport traffic women comes up and yells at me that I can't stay there, even for another minute. I said ok. I was in the middle of calling the person who I was picking up to see if they were out yet and get ready to pull away. Then she moves in front of my car, because get this, I was not pulling out fast enough. Heavens forbid there were cars passing me at a constant rate so I could not pull out, and she was in front of me. So yeah, there was no way I could get out. Then she starts writing me a ticket because I'm 'not going'. So being in a piss ass mood, I yell at her, through my rolled up window, "I'm going!" And yes, she heard me. She yells back how there's a no cell phone policy, which didn't make any sense since everyone in their cars and on the side walk were talking on their phones. Anyways, thank god for a clearing and I was able to pull away. She stopped writing the ticket.... cross your fingers she didn't finish it after I left.
After my bicker with the rude airport traffic bitch, and yeah, I was being a bitch too, I had to circle another 3 times before the person I was picking up got outside. Yeah, it was that busy at almost midnight on a Wednesday. Who knew. At least you and I both now know that that is a terrible time to be at the PDX airport. Boo!
Anyways, I needed to vent. I'm tired of people being dumb and rude. I'm tired of them pissing me off so much. Errrr. I need to chill the fuck out right now. Seriously, no more! And I definitely won't be making any more trips to the airport. Well, unless I get a decent size check soon.... then I'm out of here for who knows how long!
Oh, and deepest apologizes for my rants lately. I promise I will write nicer things in the coming days. And maybe even post some stellar photographs of new design work. Yeah, I know, I bet you're excited for that.
After my bicker with the rude airport traffic bitch, and yeah, I was being a bitch too, I had to circle another 3 times before the person I was picking up got outside. Yeah, it was that busy at almost midnight on a Wednesday. Who knew. At least you and I both now know that that is a terrible time to be at the PDX airport. Boo!
Anyways, I needed to vent. I'm tired of people being dumb and rude. I'm tired of them pissing me off so much. Errrr. I need to chill the fuck out right now. Seriously, no more! And I definitely won't be making any more trips to the airport. Well, unless I get a decent size check soon.... then I'm out of here for who knows how long!
Oh, and deepest apologizes for my rants lately. I promise I will write nicer things in the coming days. And maybe even post some stellar photographs of new design work. Yeah, I know, I bet you're excited for that.
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