Teeny Tiny Hearts

Best Dressed

2011-03-03T08:39:00.000-08:00

It's taken me a few days to come to grips with the fact that I believe Celine Dion was the best dressed woman at this year's Academy Awards. I know, I know but look:

It's even more impressive when you remember she is also the person who wore this nightmare:

All is forgiven...until next awards season. Even the Fug Girls agree!

LOVE!

2011-02-03T14:03:00.000-08:00

No More Coffee for Starbucks?

2011-01-05T14:09:00.000-08:00

Starbucks unveiled their new logo which has dropped the text and is now all their signature green color. I usually drink Peet's coffee but I did get a Starbucks gift card for Christmas so I think I'll be dropping in one of the stores soon.

I'm sure this logo will earn them tons of flack (why do people hate change so much? I LOVE IT) but I actually think it's pretty cool. I love that it has been simplified and opened up possibilities for the brand moving beyond coffee. They'll also save tons in printing costs using only one color, I'm sure. Take a look, what do you think?

Currently Loving...

2011-01-04T12:02:00.000-08:00

This print found on 20x200 by Lauren DiCioccio titled "Vogue May 2010:pg 70 (List of Contributors)"

Christmas at Disneyland

2010-12-30T08:56:00.000-08:00

For the past few days I was turned back into a twelve year old girl. If you love Disneyland and have never been at Christmastime you must go! Special decorations everywhere and it even snows inside the park on Christmas day. It was extremely crowded however so that's something to keep in mind if you're taking tiny kids.

I also had the chance to visit California Adventures for the first time. I didn't have very high expectations since I had heard there wasn't much there so I was really surprised at how much fun I had. I absolutely loved Soaring Over California and the Tower of Terror absolutely scared the bejeezus out of me. Another must visit is the Animation Building where there are all sorts of fun interactive games. While there I also overcame a fear I've had since childhood. I went on an upside-down roller coaster! Lame, I know, but it was a milestone for a chicken like me!

Quote of the Day

2010-12-08T10:39:00.000-08:00

Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.

-Einstein

Surprisingly Delicious Vegan Cupcakes

2010-12-07T09:43:00.000-08:00

For my lovely friend Carla's birthday, I decided to attempt vegan baking for the very first time. I am of Danish descent so melted butter runs in my veins and I thought there was absolutely no way vegan treats could be delicious. However, I'd been treated to dinner recently at the wonderful vegan restaurant Millennium in San Francisco and that gave me some hope. Chef Chloe's award-winning raspberry tiramisu cupcake recipe had been on my radar for a while so I bought the necessary ingredients (coconut oil? who knew?!) and got to work. I topped my cupcakes with teeny tiny plastic deer to make them party worthy and they were a hit!

Party Perfect

2010-12-06T14:05:00.000-08:00

The party season has officially begun and I am LOVING IT. Being currently unemployed means I can't buy myself any new dresses but that doesn't mean I can't look! I swooned a little when I found this lovely frock...

Confetti Dress at ModCloth

Letterheady

2010-12-02T13:37:00.000-08:00

Nikola Tesla's letterhead. Awesome site.

The Head and the Heart

2010-12-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

Happy December kids! My friend Kevin Smokler and I were having donuts this morning and he asked what I've been listening to lately so I had to tell him about The Head and the Heart. Their album has been on repeat in my car for weeks now since my friend Jenn took me to see them. Have a listen to some songs and then come see them at The Independent on December 12th. I'll be there!

So...um, hey.

2010-11-30T20:24:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged since 2008 but we're back! YAY! Let's not focus on what we've missed. Let's instead focus on what's important...these shoes. Bless you, Kate Spade. Perfect for New Year's Eve don't you think?

Andrew Bird in Montmartre

2008-07-14T22:04:00.000-07:00

Found in the Archives

2008-07-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

I was just going through the pictures on my hard drive and I came across this awesome image that one of my internet friends made. It was a while ago (and I have a terrible memory) so I don't remember who made it, but still. So special.

Mac Users Are Teh Secks

2008-07-08T20:33:00.000-07:00

Ever since Josh Groban appeared in that Jimmy Kimmel video about f*cking Ben Affleck, I think people have started to realize how funny and cute he is. You know I'm all about the indie rock (i.e. I listen to bands that don't even exist yet) but I gotta say that Josh is one tasty man-treat. Amy (the bff) and I have taken our moms to see him in concert twice and I have to admit that I squeeeee'd through each show. That's right, I'm coming out of the closet as a Groban lover. Now before you hipsters start to judge, please at least keep in mind that he's a Mac user. Evidence:

Okay, do your worst. (Photo via InStyle, July '08)

Crystal Morey

2008-06-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't yet mentioned the work of Crystal Morey on this blog. I saw her stuff because of the all-art-knowing John Casey and I think it's amazing and haunting. This is my favorite image of her work and I hope she doesn't mind that I borrowed it from her site. Good stuff:

p.s. My new job is awesome, in case anyone was wondering :)

Kevin E. Taylor and Sarah Smith @ Swarm

2008-04-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

There's an awesome show up at Swarm Gallery in Oakland right now. I was there gallery-sitting the other day and here are some photos I took of the work. Great stuff!

Pretty Pretty

2008-04-20T15:48:00.000-07:00

This post is really just because I wanted to put up this super pretty picture of my dream living room. I can't remember where I found it so I apologize for not giving more info about it. Hope you're all having a lovely weekend!

Birthday + Beers

2008-04-09T20:32:00.000-07:00

This weekend I'll be way up north with a few of my friends to celebrate our friend Owen's 30th birthday. We've all known each other for about five years now, having studied abroad in Italy together. This group of friends means a lot to me because I feel like they understand me better than almost anyone else (except you, Amy). We are also bonded by a serious, serious love of drinking. And so, to commemorate this beautiful birthday event, I give you an awesome photo of Owen from a few weekends ago:

Happy Birthday Owen!

Not A Hippie

2008-04-02T17:18:00.000-07:00

I've been struggling a lot lately with what I want to do with my life. I got my fancy degree, started a business, and yet I knew it didn't really matter. I still didn't feel fulfilled. (It is at this point that I would like to interject that I am not a hippie so don't be scared if you aren't either.) If I made a ton of money, would I feel better? What would I do with the money? Am I happy yet? Is happiness a goal?

Bleh. These and bajillions of other questions were constantly running on a loop in my head. Then I happened upon this book by Eckhart Tolle. In it, he says the things we all know to be true. Money doesn't matter and neither do things. If you are constantly seeking things, you'll never find happiness. For some reason, the way he writes and the examples he gives are totally speaking to me. I can feel my life changing while I'm becoming more conscious. If this is something you think you might be into, I highly recommend it.

Degrees of Internet Fame

2008-03-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

Most blogs are better than mine but one in particular rules them all: Dooce. Her blog is so funny that internet people make up internet awards just to give to her. Swear. So really, I almost cried this morning when I realized that I sorta know someone who knows someone who knows her!! See, she knows Derek who is like, totally biffles with Kevin, who is like totally biffles with me. I can't believe I don't have a Wikipedia entry yet. Somebody better get on that.

[my fairy blogmother]

San Francisco Games

2008-03-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

Being a single girl in San Francisco affords one the opportunity to play one of the most rewarding games ever in existence: Gay or Not Gay? I have grown up in the Bay Area and thus honed my skills (note to readers: we no longer call it "gaydar." that shit is played) but still get stumped everyone once in a while. Today was one of those times.

I was having lunch with a new friend that I met through a friend of a friend. I know, life's complicated. Anyway, he was darling: well dressed (but not too much), good hair (a little product but not exactly coiffed) and sparkly eyes. While I'm not really looking to date, I kept thinking to myself, which of my friends am I supposed to be thinking about hooking this dude up with? My #1 Gay who works at Marc Jacobs or one of my many hot nerd girl friends?

I tried to steer the convo in a direction that would explain things:

Me: I love getting coffee at Blue Bottle. Almost every guy that works there is super hot.

Him: I guess that's a good thing.

Whiff.

So, I still don't know what the deal is. Being in SF, I suppose I could have just straight up asked him but maybe a little mystery is good for us, no?

Um. I went to Fresno.

2008-02-28T18:53:00.000-08:00

If you know me, you know I love museums. I have my master's in museum studies because I love them so much. I love them SO MUCH that I drove my ass all the way to Fresno to give a wee little talk at the California Association of Museums conference. It was basically just a re-do of my thesis presentation, which was about new media art in museums, and I think it went well. It was lovely to see some of my friends from school again and to stay at a decent hotel (hello sleep number bed!). It's a bit of a relief that it's over now because I was anxious about it for so long. Here's hoping the next conference is somewhere a little more exciting. Tahiti maybe?

How I Know My Brother is Awesome

2008-02-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

Me: Remember how at Grampa's funeral he had an open casket?

Brother: Yeah, that was weird.

Mom: Well I think that's what he wanted.

Me: I don't want that. Give me a viking funeral.

Mom: No. We are not talking about this.

Brother: Is a viking funeral where they set you out on a boat and then someone shoots it with a flaming arrow?

Me: Yeah. I think that's what it's called anyway.

Mom: You're so dramatic. We're not doing that and we're not talking about this anymore.

Me: But it's what I want! Come on, Mom.

Brother: Don't worry, Jen. I'll totally light you on fire.

Me: Thanks, Bro. I knew I could count on you.

2008-02-03T12:21:00.000-08:00

On Being Flaky

2008-01-28T10:32:00.000-08:00

I've been trying to collect my thoughts over the past 24 hours and calm myself down, but I'm still upset. And here's why: People are flaky.

For over a month now, I've been planning a Weekend Art Brunch for friends and acquaintances. I found an artist willing to do a studio visit with us and assured him there would be a group of interested individuals showing up that day. I stayed in this past Saturday night to bake and assemble treat bags (which were insanely cute) for all twelve folks I was expecting. I woke up early to set up and clean my apartment so it would look nice for everyone.

Then the emails and text messages began to roll in. Canceling, canceling, canceling. Some people didn't even bother to send a message, they just didn't show up. I was crushed.

Three of my friends did show up for me. We had a nice brunch and a lovely talk with a really great artist. I had to explain to him that our group was so small because people are flaky. So embarrassing on numerous levels.

So am I writing this as a guilt trip? Yup. But also because I'm upset about the phenomenon. I've had this happen to other people as well and it's a horrible feeling. Maybe it will be different next time but next time, I won't be the host.

Grilled Salmon with a side of Microformats

2008-01-21T11:44:00.000-08:00

Last night I had a very interesting dinner at my friend Tantek's house. The crowd had been gathered by Pownce invitation, and a good crowd it was. I was the only individual there who does not work in tech, though it plays a large role in my life. Over the course of the evening, our group drank quite a few bottles of wine, some beer and purchased at least 4 domains. Geeky? You betcha. The company was great, the conversation lively, and perhaps best of all, I picked up some killer swag:

Twitterpation

2008-01-16T08:51:00.000-08:00

Wow, I still have not recovered from yesterday's keynote from Steve Jobs. Have you seen it? Have you seen the MacBook Air? It fits in a manila envelope, people! I can't help looking at my 2 year-old MacBook with disdain this morning. So huge, so clunky.

Side note: Did anyone else know about calibrating your Mac's battery? I just found this out by reading my user's guide last night. I guess I was supposed to be doing it every month or so. That's what I get for not reading.

First Hearts of '08!

2008-01-08T21:00:00.000-08:00

Yes, I've been very slow with the updates lately. I give my sincere apologies to all four of you who read my blog.

I thought I'd start this year off by writing up a little list of some of the things I love on the Internet. So here goes:

1. Trulia. My newest obsession is real estate and I love this site that shows what's for sale in any neighborhood.

2. Find of the Day. Every morning I check out the update at Found Magazine. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, but always intriguing.

3. Janet Charlton's Blog. Man, do I love Hollywood gossip. But this isn't the stuff you'll find on all the other sites. It's better.

4. Design Sponge. Because someday I will have my own place. I will, dammit!

5. Dooce. Comedy gold, pure and simple. Heather is hilarious, she deserves to be a pro blogger.

This list could go on and on. So here's to a new, better year than ever and finding more small things that make us happy!

Super Mega Yummy Pie Recipe

2007-11-19T16:47:00.000-08:00

In celebration of Turkey Day, I thought I'd do something different and post an awesome recipe. I made this pie last week and the roomies gave it a hearty thumbs up. I also suggest just buying pie crusts from Trader Joes instead of making them yourself (unless you're into that sort of thing). Here you are:

Caramel-Pecan Pumpkin Pie

Ingredients:

Pie Crust (seriously, just buy one)
2 slightly beaten eggs
1 15-ounce can of pumpkin
1/4 cup milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons butter, softened

1. Line a 9-inch pie plate with pastry. In a large bowl, stir together the eggs, pumpkin and milk. Stir in the sugar, flour, lemon peel, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice. Pour this mixture into the pastry-lined pie plate. Cover the edge with foil so the crust doesn't over-brown. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 25 minutes.

2. In a medium bowl, stir together the brown sugar, pecans and butter until combined. Remove foil from pie and sprinkle the brown sugar mixture on top of the pie. Bake for 20 minutes more or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate within 2 hours. Enjoy!

CCA Holiday Fair

2007-11-14T21:34:00.000-08:00

California College of the Arts is having their annual Holiday Fair on Saturday, December 1st. I've been before and let me tell you that is a wonderful opportunity to get some cool (not to mention cheap!) art while supporting local art students. There will be music and food as well so put it on your calendar.

CCA Holiday Fair
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, December 1, 2007
Oliver Art Center on CCA's Oakland campus
5212 Broadway (at College Avenue)

Inspired by Chanel

2007-11-11T16:40:00.000-08:00

"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous."
-- Coco Chanel

I'm keeping this quote in mind as I work through my Ladies Who Launch incubator process. It's been quite inspiring thus far. More updates soon...

Collect Yourself!

2007-11-08T12:05:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time coming but the website for my new organizing and art advising business has finally launched! I'm so excited and can't wait to get to work. Please check it out and let me know what you think. I'd also like to personally thank SFMOMA for never giving me a job because if they had, I wouldn't have done this (not that I don't still kind of hate them! ha ha!). I'll have lots of updates soon on how it's going and the other amazing entrepreneurs I've been meeting lately.

Receiver Opening Reception

2007-11-05T11:07:00.000-08:00

Strange Fruit - Bad Seeds opened at Receiver Gallery this weekend. The show is very impressive, I highly recommend you go and check it out. I am also now the proud owner of one of the Martha Sue Harris pieces featured in the exhibition. Hooray! Here are a few pics that I unabashedly stole from John Casey's blog because I was simply too enraptured to take my own:

Things I Did Today...

2007-11-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

Checked Email
Wrote a proposal
Went to Trader Joe's
Put together an Emergency Bag (WHICH YOU SHOULD DO TOO, RIGHT NOW!)

Weekend Art Brunch Postcards

2007-10-30T20:37:00.000-07:00

Check out the uber cute postcards I just picked up for Weekend Art Brunch. I had them printed at Rocket Postcards which is the best local deal I've found. I can't wait to pass them out to people!

Strange Fruit - Bad Seeds

2007-10-29T15:51:00.000-07:00

I saw John Casey yesterday and we had a nice little chat about the goings on in our lives. I was reminded that he has a show that opens this Saturday at Receiver Gallery in the Mission. He's showing with Martha Sue Harris, whose amazing work I was able to see during open studios. The reception for the show is Saturday from 7 - 10pm and I'll be there so you should be too.

Code Switching

2007-10-26T08:18:00.000-07:00

We had a really fun opening last night at Swarm for Code Switching. The show is based around a group of artists that are part of the collective Quorum. There's a little something for everyone in the show, from painting to sculpture to new media. I'm mad at myself for not taking pictures of the party but here's my favorite piece from the show:

Laurel Roth
Cheap Thrills
made from fake nails, hair clips, false eyelashes and other drugstore miscellanea

Better!

2007-10-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

I'm definitely out of my funk and part of the reason why was a fun trip to some Open Studios on Saturday. We stopped by the Blue Studio at Mission and 17th, then headed to Workspace Limited and finally to 1890 Bryant Street. There was some interesting art and some actually, really great stuff too, particularly at our final stop. What I really couldn't help gawking at however, were the studio spaces themselves. These buildings were absolutely amazing with so much light streaming in! Anyway, I'm a little broke right now so I didn't get to purchase some things I would have wanted to but I did pick up this awesome owl by Kate Durkin.

Blech.

2007-10-19T14:03:00.001-07:00

It seems like it's been a bad week for me and almost everyone I know. Sickness, bad dates, various sad things related to dogs (don't even get me started on the Ellen fiasco), and I don't know what else. My confidence has really been down lately as I am trying to start up my own business and having some setbacks. I've been feeling like people don't want me to succeed. I had some bumps this week including a depressing email exchange with someone I looked up to as a mentor.

I'm really hoping to just forget this week happened. I'm looking forward to getting up tomorrow, making brunch for some folks, having a mimosa and heading to open studios. Here's hoping next week brings better things for us all.

Blogger Night @ the SF Conservatory of Music

2007-10-17T10:05:00.000-07:00

Another night on the town for the wandering Band of Bloggers! This time we managed invites to a concert at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music for their new series called BluePrint. This first concert was titled, Synethesia: Bridging the Senses. It featured music from a number of composers, including Philip Glass and was conducted by Nicole Paiement.

I'll keep this short because I really don't know much about music and would rather not come off sounding like too much of a dingbat. I knew there was going to be experimental music. Did I love it all? No. Did I really love some of it? Yup.

I'm very grateful to have had an experience that helps me to form my tastes and opinions. I felt stretched and that's what good art should do.

Getty Villa

2007-10-12T09:27:00.001-07:00

When we were down in LA, I got to go to the Getty Villa in Malibu with my cousin. It was really beautiful so I just wanted to share some photos...

Thanks for Coming!

2007-10-05T11:48:00.000-07:00

We had lots of fun last night at Swarm. Hooray for bloggers and friends! I thought the whole night was enjoyable (okay, maybe not when the insane elderly man wandered in) and was so happy to show off all the cool stuff we do at Swarm to some folks. See you all again on October 13th when we go to the SF Conservatory.

Studios Available for Rent @ Swarm

2007-10-04T14:48:00.000-07:00

In case anyone knows an artist looking for a studio, here's the listing for two studios that just opened up at Swarm in Oakland...

About the Studios

Studio 6 and Studio 10 available October 1, 2007.

Studios available are 225 sq ft and 160 sq ft.

Contact Swarm for viewing, or visit during gallery hours
Tu-Su 12-6PM

Swarm Studios provides an atmosphere of creativity, production, inspiration and opportunity for working artists in the Bay Area. High redwood ceilings and an industrial concrete floor characterize the beautiful studio space. There are 11 private studios and a large common space.

Swarm Studios is ideal for artists working in painting/drawing, small sculpture, jewelry, bookmaking, sewing, multi-media projects, digital and more. No large/loud sculpture fabrication.

24-hour secure access
Natural and artificial lighting (fluorescent and halogen 0-UV)
High ceilings
Common clean-up sinks and bathrooms
Shared kitchen
Ventilation
Canvas and personal storage
Parking on evenings and weekends
A mailing address / Virtual tenants OK
Wireless Internet
Month-to-month rental agreement

The building is safe and well lit, located in the commercial district of Jack London Square. Studios range in size from 80 – 225 square feet

Artists may apply for a private studio by downloading a rental application form and submitting it by email or snail-mail. Swarm will host events such as openings, classes, and workshops, which may preclude the use of the common space. Drop-in day and week rates available for common work space.

Contact: info@swarmstudios.net for leasing information

Weekend Art Brunch

2007-10-03T08:38:00.000-07:00

So this isn't the project that Kevin and I are working on, but it's another that I'm pretty excited about. Weekend Art Brunch! It was inspired by my friend Carla and others who like to come to galleries and museums with me since I've worked in these places and know a little bit about what goes on. I'm just starting to brainstorm on places to go and people to meet so all questions and comments are welcome. Be sure to check out the blog which explains the idea in better detail. Yay!

Trippin'

2007-09-25T09:05:00.000-07:00

I'm headed down to Los Angeles tomorrow and I'm so excited! I'm such a travel junkie. Most people hate to fly but I crave that stale air, baby. I'm planning to catch up with friends and relatives and do some serious gallery hopping. By the time I get back, it should be time to reveal the project that Kevin and I have been working diligently on for the past few weeks. Life is good.

The BIG Question

2007-09-20T10:24:00.000-07:00

No, the Big Question is not "Does God exist?" or "What happens to us after we die?" It's far more important than that. The Big Question is "What the heck is on the walls at the Googleplex?!?" Do they have murals? Photographs of employees? I'm dying to know. For me, there would be no cooler job than picking out art for the walls at Google. I know most of the stuff that goes on inside the 'Plex is top secret but I really have to find out. I now have my mission in life.

Quote of the Day

2007-09-18T16:14:00.000-07:00

"Everybody needs beauty as well as bread..."
-- John Muir

San Francisciversay!

2007-09-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

Ok, I don't know if that post title is kinda cute or really annoying but whatever. The point is that the beginning of this month marked my one year anniversary of living in San Francisco. I'm a Bay Area native but I have to say there's a huge difference between living in The City and living just outside of it. I'm lucky to have gained an amazing circle of friends (remember that Minnie Driver movie? It was cute, right?) and carved out a new career for myself. I've also gained at least 5 to 10 pounds. Damn you SF and your tasty treats! Just kidding, I love you.

The Emergence of Geometric Order

2007-09-10T08:49:00.000-07:00

I bought this awesome little piece from Dana Robson yesterday. Not only is she a really wonderful artist but she's also my neighbor! She invited me over to her apartment which was one of the cutest places I've seen in SF. I'm quite happy to be adding her work to my tiny collection.

(I stole the image from her website 'cause all the photos I took kinda sucked. Thanks, Dana!)

Artifice of Form

2007-09-08T11:09:00.000-07:00

We had the opening for Artifice of Form at Swarm Gallery last night and it was a great time. I finally got to meet Josh Keyes, whose work I have loved for quite a while now. The show stays up until October 14th so there's no excuse not to come and see it. There was also the debut of the Oakland Art Shuttle which took all the drunk-o gallery hoppers to the different openings. I think Oakland is really kicking San Francisco's ass right now in terms of supporting the art galleries and the visual arts in general. I hope we can catch up someday.

dear ada

2007-09-07T08:16:00.000-07:00

I came across this awesome blog yesterday. It features some really great artists, some of whom I know and others that are new to me. I love finding out about artists I haven't heard of and being reminded of others that I haven't checked up on lately.

(Image is a work by Chris Pew. Check out his portfolio here.)

Cute!

2007-09-04T20:49:00.000-07:00

Mark Your Calendars!

2007-08-31T09:56:00.000-07:00

Kevin and I are setting up another Blogger's Night event, this time at the lovely Swarm Gallery. You'll finally get to see what I've been blabbing about! So if you came to the symphony event, or even if you didn't, mark down October 4th for a night of artsy fartsy fun! Email me if you wanna be put on the list: jennifercrane@gmail.com.

Critical Chaos!

2007-08-12T19:42:00.000-07:00

If you've got nothing better to do on Thursday night (Aug. 16th), or even if you do, come over to Oakland and visit me at Swarm Gallery. The opening of Critical Chaos is from 6 to 9 p.m. I saw the work for the first time today and really loved it. Here is some proof of the awesomeness:

One of the works by Erik Friedman

Detail of a piece by Ema Harris-Sintamarian

Blogger Night at the SF Symphony

2007-07-19T22:59:00.000-07:00

Until last night I had never been to the symphony before. Sad, but true. I was among the lucky few who was invited by the San Francisco Symphony to a performance conducted by James Gaffigan.

The entire evening was lovely. The staff who greeted us were lovely, the performance was lovely and every person there looked lovely. I was particularly enchanted by Gaffigan, the young and ebullient new conductor. Even though our seats were fantastic, I was almost wishing we had what people probably believe to be the bad seats, those directly behind the musicians, so I could watch his face as he conducted. I also very much enjoyed the fact that this organization was really making an effort to reach out to bloggers and to young people. I can't wait for my next trip to the San Francisco Symphony.

The Livin' Is Easy

2007-06-24T17:10:00.000-07:00

If I were a religious person, I would get down on my knees right now and thank The Baby Jesus for the season that is Summer. I've finally graduated (link to my thesis coming soon) and I feel like I can relax just a bit. For the next few months I will be interning at the Oakland Museum as well as the Hayward Area Historical Society. I've got really interesting projects going on at each place including doing some digging through objects at the amazing Meek Estate which you see pictured here. Having already graduated means that the staff can trust me, at least somewhat, to be on my own and just work. I finally feel appreciated and it's a good feeling. I'll also be working on my resume (if anyone has any tips, PLEASE give them to me!) and trying to land a real gig for when the summer ends. Oh and in my spare time, I'll be eating cupcakes and drinking bubbly. Happy Summer all!

Soon...

2007-04-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

Two months from today I will be turning in my master's project. It is a mess right now but I hope to work it into something I can be proud of by that time. I thought I would post just to say how much I appreciate everyone being understanding while I dwell in the Cave of Despair just a bit longer. While I am gone, please enjoy this photo of tiny dogs in the park with a random tranny's castoff wig in the foreground. You're welcome.

Thar's Gold in Them Thar Hills!

2007-03-06T15:48:00.000-08:00

Right, so last weekend some friends and I did the Chinese New Year's Treasure Hunt here in San Francisco and it was super fun. I think most of us agreed we'd like to do it again next year. But here are a few tips for anyone else who might want to participate, that I wish we'd known before we'd done it this time around:

Take a little time to study a map of downtown and North Beach. You'll need to know lots of street names as well as restaurants and landmarks.
Bring snackies! This should be obvious though because everything is better when food is involved.
If you are as woefully out of shape as I am, avoid the Fillmore steps at all costs. Sure, the views at the top are breathtaking but they are hellish, my friend.
Another thing to stay away from: the crazies running in single file with head lamps on. If anyone on a team is yelling, the fun is immediately sucked out of it.

All in all, I'm so glad we did it and I'm totally looking forward to doing it again in '08!

What Kind of Magic Spell to Use?

2007-01-21T18:53:00.000-08:00

I finally acquired a drawing by Casey Jex Smith. Seriously, have you ever seen anything cooler? And yes, that is Bowie as the Goblin King thankyouverymuch!

Happy 2007!

2007-01-03T22:17:00.000-08:00

My oh my. The holidays were too lovely. Twinkle lights, delicious treats, puppy dogs and my wonderful family and friends. I also happened to celebrate a milestone this year as New Year's Eve was my 25th birthday. Most of the people close to me were pretty happy to see 2006 go and I have to agree with them. There were lots of low points: cancer scares, unhappy living situations, awkward transitions and one too many bad dates. This year will be better. This year will be one of the best ever. I can feel it.

Freeeeeeeeedom!

2006-12-16T16:03:00.000-08:00

I am finally finished with my first quarter of classes. It has not been an easy few months with working, going to school, and interning. I did get my thesis proposal done and also helped develop a user interface for online collection access at the Magnes Museum. I learned a bunch but I'm ready for a break. I refuse to think for the next three weeks.

On Thursday, I'll actually get to go and spend some time with my family and my dog, LuLu. I can't wait! I'll also spend some time writing letters to members of congress, in a small attempt to alert them to the situation with Josh Wolf which is quite scary to me and should be to you too. The idea of an innocent person behind bars for the holidays is distressing.

Teeny Tiny Tree

2006-12-06T21:20:00.000-08:00

So, this is my contribution to the holiday decorations. It's kind of small so that at least makes it cute. Decorating in our neighborhood is getting pretty out of control, actually. Someone has transformed all the parking meters into candy canes, and in nearby Noe Valley they've changed the "Noe" street signs into "Noel." As long as I get some vacation and some boozy egg nog though, the holidays are just great with me.

Best. Party. Ever.

2006-11-20T16:30:00.000-08:00

On Saturday night, all the geeks in the land descended upon Mighty in Potrero Hill for the Laughing Squid anniversary party. I can honestly say this was one of the best parties I have ever been to. There was a burlesque show, a Photo Boof (which induced much craziness), art cars, and mega-yummy kettle corn. I met some extremely cool people who I can't wait to hang out with more and whose blogs I am now addicted to. You can review all the action on Flickr if you were one of the unfortunate few who weren't able to attend. Lucky for you, there's always next year.

In the picture: Tanya, Liane and Me!

Photo Credit: Tantek Celik

2006-11-14T21:29:00.000-08:00

I am currently loving the work of Casey Jex Smith and Josh Keyes. I know Casey personally and he's a great guy as well as a serious artist. Josh and I have exchanged a couple emails because I keep trying to get work from him, but it's selling as fast as he can make it. Anyway, they've both got shows up all the time so keep an eye out for them.

Image: The Fountain of Youth in Proxy for the Tree of Life by Casey Jex Smith

This Weekend

2006-11-12T16:46:00.000-08:00

I dined well with friends
Got to see my bestest friend in the whole wide world (Hi Amy!)
Had my apartment flood (boo!)
Found THIRTY BUCKS in the street (yay!)
Stepped inside a catholic church for the first time in years and did not burst into flames
Drank

New Acquisition!

2006-10-27T17:56:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Halloween, I bought kinda creepy drawing by John Casey. I know him from Swarm where I have been doing an internship for a few months now. He will also be in an upcoming show at Boontling Gallery in Oakland. Teeny tiny hearts for supporting local artists!

2006-10-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

The world is your library.

Check It Out

2006-10-08T22:40:00.000-07:00

So, today I edited a wiki. Many thanks to Tantek who played the role of professor. This meet up was the first of what will hopefully be a series of salons for those of us who are lacking tech-knowledge.

I do feel that I have made a huge leap, however, with the purchase of my new computer. It's sleek and beautiful and white. Now I just need to find some teeny tiny heart stickers to decorate it with. Yay.

2006-10-07T21:39:00.000-07:00

WE HAVE ASSUMED CONTROL.

This is Kevin. I have taken over Jenny's blog. She is tied up in the corner and has been given her a ball and cup toy for amusement. She will be released following payment of 19 gallons of Cookies & Cream Ice Cream, in half gallon unmarked containers. Payment must be made in two hours or her new Macbook gets it.

2006-10-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

Soon, hopefully this weekend, I plan to take a full-on caffeine tour of my new city. I already have some favorites which I share with the people here. Number six on the list is even on my block! Totally dangerous. I want to do some ratings of my own, however. The Coffee Ratings site really does a fine job of judging as far as espresso goes, but I need more than just some good crema to really round out my experience. I'm talking about atmosphere, people. I'll let you know how it goes...

p.s. My first use of a link ever! I'm making progress!

2006-09-28T20:18:00.001-07:00

Like most nerd-folk, I love books. I've spent a large portion of my life with my nose in one of them, completely absorbed and unaware of the world around me. I love everything about them and even bookmarks have made me squee with delight on occasion. After moving to San Francisco recently, I told myself that I would really try to cut back on the book buying. Carrying boxes and boxes of weighty art history books will do that to you. Well, I broke that promise to myself. Big time.

Last night I had the seriously kick-ass opportunity to attend the Member's Preview of the San Francisco Public Library Book Sale. I had never previously heard of the event, much less known it's the sale's 42nd year and that it is the biggest book sale on the west coast. Fortunately, I was accompanied (and given a ticket) by my friend Kevin who understands that this is perhaps San Francisco's greatest holiday.

I almost started hyperventilating as soon as we walked in the door of the pavilion at Fort Mason. Rows and rows of tables with every type of book you can imagine, lined up neatly, just waiting for me. Kevin and I jumped right in, armed with multiple canvas sacks to haul away our booty. By the end of the evening we had hardly made it through the fiction tables and had filled our bags. I made off with a ridiculous amount of literature for only twenty five bucks! It was truly glorious and I'll probably go back for more on Sunday. I don't think I'll ever be able to move again. But, then again, why would I?

2006-09-22T16:20:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I'm blogging all over you!

Okay, so here we go. Being the young and vibrant ball o' fun that I am, I decided I should finally succumb to being a blogger. Plus, all the cool kids I know are doing it. But what will it be about? My new found freedom from suburbia, the art world, coffee, and probably boys. You know, all the things that occupy my time. I have no idea how this will go but let's give it a whirl anyway, shall we?