Lazy Sundays Lead to Anis Mojgani

There really is nothing like a lazy Sunday. Rolling out of bed around eleven to drink coffee and read the Sunday Times for a few hours. Birds are singing, there's a warm breeze, and if you sit in the shade your body cools to an almost perfect temperature. The most amazing thing about a lazy Sunday is when you find the time to follow the inspiration trail.

As I scrolled through Instagram, I stopped on a beautiful picture by Shelby Robinson (@shelbzrobinson), a Midwest creative, who's account I just recently discovered. She has one of those accounts where after seeing the first three pictures you immediately follow because you can't wait to see what she'll post next. Well, she delivered.

Underneath this delicate picture, she quoted Anis Mojgani, a spoken word poet.

"I want my words and actions to be the quantification of my love. To make tangible the passions in my heart for the world and the people in it."

Reading his words were one thing. Now, listening, that's a whole other experience. My attention was instantly caught as I sat up to hear his words. I hope it does the same for you.

Shake the dust from Anis Mojgani on Vimeo.

To learn more about Anis Mojgani, check out his website, thepianofarm.com. I cannot wait to dive deeper into his art. 

Artist Statement: Christian Sottile

In my attempts to organize my belongings last night I decided to go through a few piles building up on my desk. Not surprisingly, as I have a bit of an obsession, I ended up uncovering 5 different notebooks. Each one filled with pages of to do lists, quotes, business plans, sketches, inspirations, logo ideas - basically any thought that flowed through my head. It's really important to me to have a physical thing that I can hold on to rather then just a blog or word document. I find that it helps when I take the time to sit down, pick up a pencil and consciously think about that words I'm putting to paper. Unfortunately, when I come across an old notebook, all previous tasks are quickly forgotten as I sit down exactly where I am and become absorbed in my past thoughts.

Last night I stopped on a particular page where I scribbled the artist statement of Christian Sottile, principal in the internationally recognized urban design firm, Sottile & Sottile and dean of the School of Building Arts at Savannah College of Art and Design. It is so simple, yet so powerful that every time my finger traces the words I'm instantly inspired and motivated to create. I hope it does the same for you.

"Make it so beautiful is breaks their hearts; fills their minds with wonder and awakens their souls to awe."

Christian Sottile

I'm Running a Series of Experiments

This Good Life Project Jam Session by Jonathan Fields, inspired me so much that I wanted to do nothing but return to The House of Emerald after a three month long hiatus. (What happened to my 12 Resolutions?) Unfortunately, no matter how much I try, the winter blues always gets me down and leaves me feeling stuck, unmotivated and questioning everything. I think this year was a little bit harder not only because of the winter we experienced, but also because of my upcoming 25th birthday in May. I keep asking myself, "You're going to be 25. What are you doing with your life?". It's a very tough question that can, if you let it, lead you down a negative spiral. Luckily, with the emerging of warm weather (although I woke up to snow?) and the discovery of some great writers (Dani Shapiro and Stephen Cope), I feel my grove coming back. This video just confirmed that.

Jonathan is trying to answer the question of what advice he would give his 20-something self, in regards to building a career and how he would contribute to the world in a substantial way. I've read a lot of cheesy articles about this particular question, but he hits the nail on the head:

"Don't focus."

He suggests to "deliberately run a series of experiments" where your main goal is to collect information. (See Mom and Dad, I knew I was doing it right!) Ultimately this information will answer 3 questions:

1. Who am I?

2. What matters to me?

3. What am I good at/capable of being good at?

I remember when I decided to leave my "perfect" job at Ralph Lauren. I had already hopped around to a few other jobs after graduating college and my parents, as well as myself, thought I was finally set. Two months into it, I knew this wasn't right. I made a vow to myself to leave and try as many different things as I could. Starting this blog, was a way for me to track some of my journey. I changed my employment info on Facebook to "Crafter" at Liz's School of Life. Every now and then Facebook asks me to add the location to this job and I always laugh. There is no permanent location when you're learning about yourself. You need to be free and have the confidence that you will find your vocation or dharma. 

Like Jonathan says, these experiments are filling in chunks of the puzzle. It's not about reputation, success or money that you can get from a particular job. 

"What can this teach me?"

It's about what you can learn right now so then when you're in your 40s, you don't turn around and wonder. This reminds me of my favorite lyrics of Time by Pink Floyd.

"And then one day you'll find, ten years have got behind you

No one told you when to run, you missed the starting gun."

I remember the day my dad pointed those particular words out I thought, I never want to get to that point. 

For the past five years, I've been extremely fortunate to have a great job at a local restaurant. It's allowed me to explore, take classes, start a part-time job/end a part-time job all while still making a decent income. Unfortunately, I still get the "Oh you still work in a restaurant" pity face. It used to drive me crazy, constantly wondering that I should be doing something better with my life. But hey, jokes on you!

So while, I may have a very colorful resume, it's comforting to know that someone so successful as Jonathan, is giving me the advice I decided to give myself a year ago. Thank you for reminding me Jonathan.



P.S. Next time you run into someone who's just interested in "What you're doing" (aka where you work) just tell them your "running a series of experiments."

The House of Windows: Nick Olson & Lilah Horwitz

It's about being closer to living with the elements." -Nick Olson

I stumbled upon this article on Facebook titled "These two Young Artists quit their job to build this Glass House for $500" and knew it was going to be something special. I scrolled right past every word of the article only concerned with visuals and to my surprise I found a video. This couple has a beautiful spirit and an attitude towards the elements, life and our place in it that is truly admirable. Kudos to you Nick and Lilah.

Original Image via Yahoo Homes

The video is part of a web series by Half Cut Tea, a two person team that travels across the country in search of artists and their stories. I haven't  been able to check out any of their other documentaries, but it's at the top of my list for the next rainy, or should I say absolutely freezing, day.

Chain Reaction: Birkin to Nature

I absolutely love those mornings where I have a few hours to get my daily fix of blog updates while drinking my morning coffee. However, I also love when I come across a few new blogs to obsess over.

Messy Nessy Chic is a blog that I discovered a few months ago. Nessy, the brain child behind this wonderful website, and I share a love for abandoned places. Lucky for me she features them frequently.
Below is a picture from one of my favorite posts about Verosha, a once popular tourist destination in the 1970s, now a desolate ghost land where visitors aren't allowed.

via Messy Nessy Chic 

Another notable series is her, "13 Things I Found on the Internet Today". If there is one post I go to when I don't have much time to search around, it's that. 

In today's volume LV, number four features a black and white of Jane Birkin circa 1970 that was found on Back to the Universe.

I instantly clicked through and was lead to an eclectic collection of all things 60s, 70s and 80s.
sigh...

  

all via Back to the Universe

After a good browse I noticed the curator also had a link to another visual experience, Places like Heaven, a collection of beautiful interiors, design and nature.

  

all via Places like Heaven

Wonderful blogs that are all worth a follow.

Enjoy!

12 New Years Resolutions for 2014

I'm not sure about anyone else, but I'm extremely excited for 2014. I feel that it will be the year of good karma. 

Not to put any shame on 2013, but as my boyfriend put it best, it was a transition year. I've transitioned out of an old way of thinking into a new way of being true to myself. The search for the dream job may be over, at least for now, and I've decided to make up my own. A little scary, but what better time then when you're 24 and have the world at your fingertips? 

As I proceed into 2014, I have given myself a little challenge: Twelve solid resolutions, one for each month, that I will revisit publicly on this blog. As the end fo , I will report back with my progress and some tips that I've learned along the way. (Note: This isn't the first time I've given myself a challenge, however I plan to make this the first time I truly follow through!)

I have to say, I'm spoiled with a delightfully large bedroom, however, I cannot seem to get the layout right - something always feels off. I plan to introduce concepts of Feng Shui including layout, color and placement of objects in order to bring the right flow of energy to my bedroom.

I always have this feeling that there must be something else I can do and to be honest, it gets exhausting. Introducing 15 minuets of meditation to my daily routine is a perfect way to slow down, clear my thoughts, and breathe.

Back to the dream job challenge! Over the past few years, I've watched one too many business ideas catch dust in an old notebook. If there is one thing I do in 2014, this will be it.

I have a horrible habit of getting very excited to read a book and then putting it down after the first two chapters, never to pick it up again. In a sense, I'm only "half-learning" which leads to frustration when trying to communicate what I've read. Instead of buying every interesting book that comes my way, I'm plan to make a conscience effort to choose wisely and flip every page.

The House of Emerald is something I've dreamed about since my senior year of college. The blogging world has been a way for me to develop a voice, seek my passions and discover countless individuals and businesses doing great things. Some of my small goals are to do one crafting post a week, link all social media outlets flawlessly and keep up with my resolution progress.

Receiving a NutriBullet for Christmas is a blessing in disguise. I'm one who doesn't believe in a diet but a lifestyle change, however it's easier said then done. In order to reach my goal I plan on adding good things into my diet rather then abruptly eliminating whole food groups. Starting off with a nutrient rich smoothie is a great way to set the mood for the rest of the day.

About a year ago, I decided that I was going to become a tea drinker. I never, and I mean never, liked tea. After constantly reading about the benefits of calming herbs and caffeine with no crash I knew it was time to introduce tea into my life. Every night I plan to wind down with a soothing cup of chamomile tea.

Spending time immersed in nature is truly rewarding. Unfortunately, I don't make enough of an effort to take advantage of my beautiful surroundings, the Hudson Valley. I'd like to walk or hike outdoors, in places new or old, at least once a week.

As I've become more aware of my diet and what I put into my body, I've also become aware of the fact that I don't spend enough time in the kitchen. I'm always rushing myself around, choose convenience over a proper meal and end up making poor food decisions. I'd like to start small with one new recipe a week, whether its salad dressing or roasting a turkey breast.

There is no better feeling then making something yourself. I always loved art class because at the end of the year or semester, you were able to take a step back and look at what you created. You didn't have words on 10 pages of computer paper stapled together. You had color, texture, subjects, hidden meaning and unique materials all wrapped into one. I'm sure people could argue the same for written materials, but not me. I want to make one new piece of art a week.

If I had a nickel for every time my father told me about the things I could get done if I only work up earlier. Ten years later, I finally know what he's talking about. I plan to rise earlier every day, even if it's just to have a slowly paced start to my day.

As I started this post, I mentioned that I believe 2014 will be the year of good karma and staying positive is a key factor. Everyone has their challenges, but remember, you get back what you put into the universe. There is always a new day (hopefully) and there is always something to be grateful for. I plan to put good vibes into the world in 2014.


What makes me proud of these resolutions is that there is no elimination. You hear so many people say things like they won't drink, or they won't eat bad food, or they won't watch so much TV. I've made plenty of resolutions like that and they always fail. While there will always be suffering, follow the basic teachings of karma and realize that by adding goodness, only goodness can come.

Happy New Year!

To Do List

Alain de Botton's Atheism 2.0

If you had the chance to look into my past, it might not be obvious that I would consider myself an atheist as I got older. I spent 7 years in the catholic school system (prayer's in the morning and all) and was forced to 8:45 Sunday mass by my mother every week. However, by the time I was 16 - through a form of teenage rebellion - I became very farm removed from the Catholic Church.

Now that I'm in my mid-20's, I've started to feel a need for something more in my life. Some sort of structure that doesn't revolve around a career.

I spent some time in a Presbyterian church and learned that the minister could marry and have children..who knew?! It was so great to listen to his sermon about life and death and relationships. He was able to experience life the same way I was so I felt more of a connection.

I dabbled in some Buddhist teachings and began to truly understand the reasoning for suffering in life and what it means to truly be compassionate.  Meditation and yoga were new past times.

However, there was always one problem - the supernatural.

In walks Alain, de Botton, considered to be the philosopher of the everyday life, with a new perspective on religion and atheism. 

He argues that as an atheist we don't have to disregard all aspects of religion, but borrow bits and pieces. de Botton's ability to put to words to exactly what you're thinking, or feeling is truly extraordinary. Take a look at this inspiring TED talk that just might restore your faith (no pun intended) in atheism.

 I believe in being kind

I believe in always expanding your mind

I believe in the power of the sea

I believe in reading the Sunday paper

I believe in taking care of the earth

I believe in spending time with yourself

I believe in questioning

I believe in taking care of your body 

I believe in walking barefoot 

There may not be a religion that compiles all my beliefs exactly, but that's ok. I'm on the path to self-knowledge and at twenty-four, that's all that matters to me.

For more about Alain de Botton, visit his website here. To purchase "Religion for Atheist", click here.

Delightfully Lost: My First Visit to Terrain

As an avid follower and customer of URBN Inc (Urban Outfitters, Free People, Anthropologie & [the newest] Terrain) when I heard of their newest concept, Terrain, I had to check it out for myself. With a day off, I took the trip up to one of their two locations in Westport, CT - the other in Glen Mills, PA - and found myself delightfully lost in an eclectic collection of plants and home and garden products. An employee even mentioned that at times she finds people wandering for hours. To completely tie in all your senses, there is a cafe and garden terrace that showcases local and organic meals as well as coffee, tea and sweet treats. (I indulged in an iced coffee and mini chocolate & vanilla cupcake) 

While still a new concept - the Westport location has only been open for a year - I believe that we will be seeing new Terrain locations very soon. Can you say Brooklyn? California?

For a little more insight, take a look at what caught my eye:

The Merrit Parkway North

Woolly Pockets

Who doesn't love a vertical garden?

Purchase Here

Faux Bois Cement Chairs

Wall Display

Sun Printing Kit: Silk Scarf

Purchase Here 

Sun Printing Kit: Large Paper

Purchase Here

United States Chalkboard Map

Purchase Here

Even the Restrooms were beautiful!

Loving this faucet

 Driftwood Wreath Candleholder

Purchase Here - On Sale!

Rope Handle Planter

Purchase Here

There is alway something special about a round dining table.

Tufted Linen Chair

Purchase Here

Concrete by Leonard Koren & William Hall

Purchase Here

Pin Drop Pendants 

Purchase Here

Detail

Tomboy Style: Beyond the Boundaries of Fashion by Lizzie Garrett Mettler

Purchase Here

Everyday Handy Notes

Purchase Here

Just one of the few workshops Terrain offers. 

I cannot wait to see the list of offerings for October!

For all events in Westport, click here.

My Final Purchases: 

I'm always a sucker for awesome books and anything that smells delicious!

1. Past & Present: 24 Favorite Moments in Decorative Arts History and 24 Modern DIY Projects Inspired by Them by Amy Azzarito Forward by Design*Sponge's Grace Bonney

2. Brooklyn Makers: Food, Design, Craft and Other Scenes from a Tactile Life by Jennifer Causey

3. Bring The Outdoors In: 20 Garden Projects for Decorating and Styling Interiors by Shane Powers

4. Rosy Rings Pressed Flower Sachets in Black Vetiver & Oak - Purchase Here

5. Il Frutteto Soap in Olive & Tangerine - Purchase Here

While I didn't get to check out the restaurant, I will definitely be back up soon. Perhaps for a Sunday brunch, workshop or just to get delightfully lost again.