featured artist: hello halsted

Every once in a while I come across something on Instagram or Etsy that really just kicks me in the teeth - because of its originality, beauty, uniqueness, or something akin to I wish I was that creative. It's the best kind of shock envy because it both surprises and inspires. I love supporting other artists, and sometimes I find something so spectacular that I just have to share it with others.

This week I stumbled upon Hello Halsted on Instagram through another Instagram account that I love, Poppy and Fern. Both of these ladies create stunning floral jewelry, but in very different ways. I long to have something from each of them; they're perpetually on my wishlists. Rachel of Poppy and Fern hand stitches her jewelry, and it's all amazing. She also has an affinity for poppies (as evidenced by her shop name), and I love everything she makes, especially this necklace.

Stephanie of Hello Halsted, on the other hand, uses real flowers - Queen Anne's Lace - to create her masterpieces. She dries, cuts and dyes them to create these stunning miniature watercolors trapped in resin. She typically makes a variety of necklaces and earrings, with occasional extras like rings. My favorites are the large circle, square or hexagon necklaces. Gorgeous! Did I mention she's only 25? Makes my year's to-do list seem a little underwhelming. She posts new batches of products in her online shop every 8-12 days, which sell out really fast. I love this method, though, because it means that she's constantly preparing fresh and exciting designs for each new batch. Follow her Instagram to feel fragrantly inspired by her sneak peeks and new batch posts, and definitely take a look at her shop - her new batch posts TOMORROW, November 7th, at 11am!

trip countdown

source: jdombstravels

In just 6 days, Dustin and I will be flying through the air towards Istanbul, Rome, Florence, and Venice.
It is going to be a phenomenal trip, I can already tell!
So far it seems to be the perfect balance of planning and winging it, relaxed agendas and really exciting itineraries. I mean, Italy really demands relaxation - wine, gelato, pastas, pizzas. Sit down and be fed, sit down and be gelatoed. You can't really hurry these experiences.

Right now I think Florence and San Gimignano are going to be the highlight for me, but part of me hopes I'm wrong and that little treasures find me in the most unexpected places.

This is the last weekend before we go, so naturally I'm panicking. 
Packing starts now!
I'm having to really remind myself of my own layering tips to really utilize my suitcase space. It's going to be a challenge, since March is always a tricky time to travel, weather-wise. It's still on the cold side, but can occasionally warm up in the middle of the day while sightseeing, so easily removable layers are important. I don't want to weigh myself down with a super heavy suitcase, especially since souvenirs are kind of my thing. Gotta have room for those.

Travel Tip: Always bring half as much as you think you need, and twice as much cash. 

True story. If I could give you one single nugget of wisdom, that'd be it.
Although if you want more, email me, because I love to talk about traveling. Start planning that trip to the magical whimsical wonderful place of your dreams soon! There's no time like the present. 

In the mean time, my blogging has been slowing due to busy-ness/sickness, but while I'm gone, keep up with me over on my instagram (CaitSchan), I'd absolutely love to share our trip with you!

lady librarian

I work in a library.

Have I mentioned that?

It's a lovely job, really, although for the last two years I have worked in an office that is closer to resembling a closet than an actual workplace. 

Until now!

Over the past few weeks we have been settling into the brand new library building on campus.

It's absolutely stunning, and I have to say it has been rather thrilling being a part of the process. A small part, but a part nonetheless!

Before the official grand opening, Dusty and I wandered around the library after work one evening, taking in the peace and quiet before the onslaught of students in the upcoming days.
As you can see, there's a plethora of windows and it's a rather magnificent structure.
And there's a Starbucks.
Which is the only reason why I'm here.

Top: Old Navy, Jeans: Forever21, Boots: Zulily
Sweater/Vest: Gifted, Necklace: Inspired Tales on Etsy

This necklace was a completely unexpected gift from a friend of mine who owns an Etsy shop out of Canada. She's so creative and I always love seeing what she comes up with. 

She makes these little creature figurines using polymer clay for necklaces and other things (how cute is this Hedwig brooch?)

She does custom orders, and I had talked last year about how fun it would be to get a little necklace done of our two kittens, Luna and Eva.

She made it without telling me and sent it to me for Christmas!

It was such a sweet gift and she did such adorable detail on the little figurines. I would highly recommend her stuff, I love everything I've ever gotten from her (like this, this, these, all this, these, and this "i heart tea" mini painting!)

The bottom line is, I'm a cat lady, I work in a library, and I'm currently looking to buy a cozy cottage in the woods where I can wear shawls and make pottery and homemade stews.

christmas week!

A very merry Christmas from my little corner of the world!

This week will be full of family, fun, all things Christmas and all things jolly.

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, and I promise I will be back to blogging regularly in no time!

Drink lattes, pray for snow, wear fuzzy socks, listen to carols, maybe sing a few...make a fire, cuddle up, see a film, enjoy the glitter, and say I love you a whole darn lot.

Merry Christmas.

frocktober!

October is...

birthday month pumpkin spice weekend trips sweater weather burnt orange 

apple cider halloween movie nights scented candles changing leaves crisp mornings couch cuddles tights & boots spices hot drinks cozy socks caramel

And most of all, it's Frocktober. 

An entire month of dresses!
Will you join me?
#frocktobersisterhood