Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 384
December 21, 2010
Reducing Holiday Decoration Clutter
If you celebrate Christmas, you probably have your home decorated and ready to go for Saturday. Now is the perfect time to get rid of any items that are cluttering up your Christmas decoration collection. Here's how:
Are there any items you didn't use to decorate your home this year? If you aren't using a decoration, it could be a sign that the decoration is clutter. Photograph the item if it has sentimental meaning to you, and then trash, recycle, or donate the item to a group that is interested in accepting holiday decorations (hospitals, nursing homes, and daycare centers often want these items).
Do you love all the decorations you're using? If you don't love an item or if it doesn't bring you any joy, it could be a sign that the decoration is clutter. Remove it from display and trash, recycle, or donate the item as needed.
Set a storage limit. Just because you might have space to store all of your decorations, doesn't mean you should keep everything. Set a limit now (two Rubbermaid bins or a taped area of floorspace or whatever method works for you), so when it comes time to put your decorations away you can adhere to the storage limit.
Do you have any duplicates? If you have more than one of a decoration, it could be a sign that you should get rid of the extras. Obviously, if there are five people in your family you would want to keep five stockings. However, you probably don't need 10 stockings for your family of five.
Pass it on. If you have grown children, you may want to pass along ornaments and decorations to them to enjoy in their homes. This is especially fun to do with children who have recently moved out of your home and are establishing their own traditions.
Try your best not to pack away any holiday decoration clutter this year by getting started on your decluttering efforts now.
December 20, 2010
Organization Inspiration: Things Organized Neatly
It's a short week in our offices this week, and I have to admit, I'm slowly slipping into vacation brain. So, today I offer up a bit of eye candy for those of you that love organization—the website Things Organized Neatly. (I love and aspire to this level of organization, but never seem to attain it.)
Take a browse through some of their recent images:
Holiday Lights (This one is actually a print available for purchase from quercusdesign on Etsy)
Yarn Cabinet (sourced from wood & wool stool's Flickr page)
Do you have a favorite image on Things Organized Neatly? Or is there another site that you love for organizing eye-candy?
You Picked Your January Book
And maybe it was no surprise, but David Nicholls' runaway hit, One Day, was a runaway hit here too, capturing almost 57% of the vote. January discussion leader Danielle Virgin will post a quick hello later in the week—see you then!
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Free Gift Tags Online
Wrap, tape, cut, tie.... While you are in the midst of packaging your presents, why not top them with a darling and free gift tag that you can download from artists and designers online? And yes, I said FREE. What an incentive! I found a few that I liked and thought I'd share them with you.
These are from Swedish artist Camilla Engman showing some of her characters in terrific colorways. CLICK HERE to download.
Lisa Rupp birdy ornaments, that can also double as gift tags if you write on the other side... to save the JPG file onto your desktop.
How To: All you have to do is click on the links above and print them onto white cardstock or another favorite paper that your printer will accept, and then either cut them by hand or use a paper cutter (my choice) for perfectly straight lines. Finally, just punch a hole in each tag (a simple hole puncher will do or you can get decorative ones from the craft shop) and tie a ribbon or baker's twine through them and you're finished! Just fill them out and tie onto a gift. Easy, free and I'm willing to bet your friends will love them!
And here is a HUGE list with links to tons of beautiful and free gift tags online. Don't miss it!
Will you download and use free gift tags this season? If so, from who?
(images: linked to their sources above.)
December 19, 2010
You asked – Kindle, nook or iPad?
As a tech blogger and mom-geek, there are two questions that I'm asked most often – Wii or Xbox, and Kindle, nook or iPad?
As I've written in the past, I have had a Kindle since last January, and this summer I bought an iPad (less than a month after I convinced myself I didn't need one), so it's a subject that I've given a lot of thought.
I don't think there is an easy answer, but with Christmas fast approaching and many looking at these items as gifts, here's how I think it breaks down:
Amazon Kindle ($139 – $379)
I have a great fondness for my Kindle, because it does one thing – allows me to read – and it does it pretty well. I have an older version that is most similar to the new 3G version, meaning I can download books, blogs, magazines and newspapers from anywhere, including the middle of the Pennsylvania Turnpike while my husband is driving.
The new Kindles with their black plastic case, are much slicker looking than mine, and there are more options available, including a less expensive unit which allows for downloading through wifi only, and a more expensive unit with a larger 9.7" screen.
Reading on the Kindle is very comfortable because the screen is not backlit, and you can adjust the color and contrast of the page. The lack of backlighting makes reading outside in the sun possible, but also means if you want to read in bed without disturbing your partner, you will need a book light.
But the best part, and what differentiated the Kindle from the Nook, was the Amazon store. Each has quite a bit of free content available, but Amazon makes it very easy to find the free goodies, through the Kindle app, on the Kindle reader, and through their web site.
Apple iPad ($499 – $829)
While it may seem logical to talk about the Nook next, let's talk about the iPad, and why it's not a simple choice between the Kindle and iPad.
First, there's price. The least expensive iPad (16GB with Wi-Fi) comes in at $499 – a not insignificant difference between it and the most expensive Kindle. To get something that will allow you to download books via 3G you will have to spend a minimum of $692 for the 16GB iPad with WiFi + 3G, and that doesn't include the 3G data plan for which you will have to subscribe.
While you can read from the iPad, using a variety of available apps including those from Apple, Amazon and Barnes & Noble, you can also do a lot more – check e-mail, update your status on Facebook, play games, surf the net – which what makes the iPad so intriguing and more useful than any e-reader.
The iPad is back lit, which can be tough on the eyes, but is great at night when my husband is trying to sleep and I want to read. Reversing the text (black background, white text) and using a matte screen protector, makes reading outside easier but still not as comfortable as the Kindle.
But the biggest reason I hang on to my Kindle? When visiting the beach, pool, or sitting in the tub, I can put the Kindle in a zip lock back and still "turn the page" using the button on the side. Can't do that with the iPad because you have to touch the screen to turn the page.
Barnes & Noble nook ($149 - $249)
Which brings me to the nook from Barnes & Noble.
When I tried the original nook, I will admit I didn't like it at all. The combination of a Kindle-like screen and a backlit colored display at the bottom of the unit felt like an awkward marriage of features which didn't create anything but an uncomfortable reading experience. And I had trouble navigating the Barnes & Noble store on the nook to find the content I was looking for.
Then I saw the nook color, and began to wonder if they might have come up withe something that was a good compromise of my two favorite pieces of technology.
Like the iPad, the nook color has a full-color, back lit touch screen display, good for reading at night. Magazines, newspapers and illustrations look gorgeous, while on the Kindle everything is rendered in shades of grey. Unfortunately, they got rid of the physical navigation buttons, preventing me from using my inexpensive waterproofing method.
And, while the price is more in line with the Kindle, the nook color only comes with Wi-Fi, meaning even at $249 you don't get the 3G network that comes with the $189 Kindle.
So, what's my recommendation? Again, I don't think there is any easy answer, but I do believe the question is not iPad or Kindle, but instead nook color or Kindle.
Personally, I still think the Kindle at $189 is the better deal, largely because of the free 3G downloading. With physical buttons on the side and a non-backlit screen, it also works better than the rest in outdoor or wet situations.
What do you think?
You asked – Kindle, Nook or iPad?
As a tech blogger and mom-geek, there are two questions that I'm asked most often – Wii or Xbox, and Kindle, Nook or iPad?
As I've written in the past, I have had a Kindle since last January, and this summer I bought an iPad (less than a month after I convinced myself I didn't need one), so it's a subject that I've given a lot of thought.
I don't think there is an easy answer, but with Christmas fast approaching and many looking at these items as gifts, here's how I think it breaks down:
Amazon Kindle ($139 – $379)
I have a great fondness for my Kindle, because it does one thing – allows me to read – and it does it pretty well. I have an older version that is most similar to the new 3G version, meaning I can download books, blogs, magazines and newspapers from anywhere, including the middle of the Pennsylvania Turnpike while my husband is driving.
The new Kindles with their black plastic case, are much slicker looking than mine, and there are more options available, including a less expensive unit which allows for downloading through wifi only, and a more expensive unit with a larger 9.7" screen.
Reading on the Kindle is very comfortable because the screen is not backlit, and you can adjust the color and contrast of the page. The lack of backlighting makes reading outside in the sun possible, but also means if you want to read in bed without disturbing your partner, you will need a book light.
But the best part, and what differentiated the Kindle from the Nook, was the Amazon store. Each has quite a bit of free content available, but Amazon makes it very easy to find the free goodies, through the Kindle app, on the Kindle reader, and through their web site.
Apple iPad ($499 – $829)
While it may seem logical to talk about the Nook next, let's talk about the iPad, and why it's not a simple choice between the Kindle and iPad.
First, there's price. The least expensive iPad (16GB with Wi-Fi) comes in at $499 – a not insignificant difference between it and the most expensive Kindle. To get something that will allow you to download books via 3G you will have to spend a minimum of $692 for the 16GB iPad with WiFi + 3G, and that doesn't include the 3G data plan for which you will have to subscribe.
While you can read from the iPad, using a variety of available apps including those from Apple, Amazon and Barnes & Noble, you can also do a lot more – check e-mail, update your status on Facebook, play games, surf the net – which what makes the iPad so intriguing and more useful than any e-reader.
The iPad is back lit, which can be tough on the eyes, but is great at night when my husband is trying to sleep and I want to read. Reversing the text (black background, white text) and using a matte screen protector, makes reading outside easier but still not as comfortable as the Kindle.
But the biggest reason I hang on to my Kindle? When visiting the beach, pool, or sitting in the tub, I can put the Kindle in a zip lock back and still "turn the page" using the button on the side. Can't do that with the iPad because you have to touch the screen to turn the page.
Barnes & Noble Nook ($149 - $249)
Which brings me to the nook from Barnes & Noble.
When I tried the original nook, I will admit I didn't like it at all. The combination of a Kindle-like screen and a backlit colored display at the bottom of the unit felt like an awkward marriage of features which didn't create anything but an uncomfortable reading experience. And I had trouble navigating the Barnes & Noble store on the nook to find the content I was looking for.
Then I saw the nook color, and began to wonder if they might have come up withe something that was a good compromise of my two favorite pieces of technology.
Like the iPad, the nook color has a full-color, back lit touch screen display, good for reading at night. Magazines, newspapers and illustrations look gorgeous, while on the Kindle everything is rendered in shades of grey. Unfortunately, they got rid of the physical navigation buttons, preventing me from using my inexpensive waterproofing method.
And, while the price is more in line with the Kindle, the nook only comes with Wi-Fi, meaning even at $249 you don't get the 3G network that comes with the $189 Kindle.
So, what's my recommendation? Again, I don't think there is any easy answer, but I do believe the question is not iPad or Kindle, but instead nook color or Kindle.
Personally, I still think the Kindle at $189 is the better deal, largely because of the free 3G downloading. With physical buttons on the side and a non-backlit screen, it also works better than the rest in outdoor or wet situations.
What do you think?
December 17, 2010
Warm and Stylish Winter Boots: Which One Should I Choose?
Keeping my feet warm during these cold winter months has been an obsession of mine for years. But it's hard to find superior warmth and style. Don't you agree? Everyone tells me how cozy Uggs are--and yes, I have a pair and I agree.
However, they just aren't cute. Why can't we have function and fashion in winter footwear? I'm just looking for something with a little more form and silhouette than you average Ugg. I'm tired of looking like a complete lumberjack.
Sooo, in my quest of finding the perfect winter boot I have found 4 pairs that have sparked my interest. I have tried them all on and they pass both my style and warmth criteria (however, trying on a boot indoors can't really give you a true sense of how it will stand up to the elements. ugh.)
With that said, I need you help in choosing which one you think I should get. And I know this is solely based on aesthetics, but just play along. Take my word for it....they are all super cozy. So which one wins the FSquared Award...aka the Function/Fashion Award?
Here they are in no particular order....
This cute design was inspired by a stylish pair of gloves. The gathered tiers help to trap heat and bring a little dimension to the boot. And who can resist waterproof leather and a full wool lining?
#2 UES Rabbit-fur lined sneaker boot, $191.99
This style is a little more urban...perfect for a NYC girl like myself. I also like the fact that it's modeled after a sneaker, so it's almost like I'm not even wearing a true boot. The diamond applique detail and studs add a bit of femininity--and the fur lining will definitely keep my toes toasty.
#3 Timberland Granby Tall Zip boot, $149.99
I love the idea of waterproof suede and the simplicity of an inner zipper so I don't have to deal with the laces (although I dig the way they look). These were actually making my feet sweat when I tried them on...always a great sign!
#4 North Face Alana boot, $135
The layered look in footwear is very stylish right now, so it's great to see this boot can cross that trend off the list. I also appreciate the variety of color (light brown, dark brown and grey), which means that I can wear them with a lot of outfits.
Happy snow-booting!
I Capture the Castle: Part 3
Hi, Bookies:
So our story finished, though without the neatly tied up conclusion I'd expected—and maybe you had too. Not that there wasn't fair warning that things would blow up: On the very first page of Part 3, Dodie Smith wrote about the great storm clouds swirling around. And maybe it was the right, most plausible ending for these characters? But we'll come back to that. First, let's talk about what happened along the way.
Chapter XIII was pivotal. We get the first glimmerings that Stephen is moving on; that the father takes in more than just his detective novels; that Rose is not truthful in her feelings; that Simon is deluding himself. And through it all there's Cassandra working out her own emotions. I had to laugh at her daydreams of winning Simon and giving Rose a kick in the process, because who hasn't been there? She's very much in the throes of first love, and I think it's genuine, born out of a real connection and not just physical attraction. (She later realizes that Simon is not really handsome, but for Cassandra handsome is not the point—otherwise, she would have given herself over to the apparently Adonis-like Stephen.)
One surprise is the turn that Smith—in the form of Cassandra—takes toward faith and religion in this chapter. "Surprise" because Smith could just as easily have never touched on the issue. Cassandra's awakening to the questions of the spirtual go hand-in-hand with her journey to adulthood, but I did wonder if ultimately Smith intended this section to have a broader meaning. She wrote Castle in the years just after World War II; given the horrors of that war, was it possible she was addressing those whose faith she thought had flagged? I don't know; could be just as likely that I'm reading into it—the book itself doesn't tip at all to what was happening in England and the world in the 1930s. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
So off Cassandra and Stephen go to London, and that's the beginning of the end. It becomes blatantly clear how Rose feels about her upcoming marriage, and Cassandra reveals her rather shocking—shocking to Rose, anyway—turnaround from support to, well, "disapproval" seems mild. In the heat of the moment I was with Cassandra, but Rose was right: Cassandra was jumping ship just when she was most needed. And once more the worthy Stephen comes to her aid, as she finds herself stranded, penniless, in an all-night cafeteria. In the course of the night, Cassandra passes rather cruel judgment on not only Rose but Topaz as well, and gives the last blows to Stephen's breaking heart. (Stephen turns out to be more complex than you might have expected, no?)
In Chapter XV we're back at the castle, and things take a turn for the truly odd. I'm honestly not quite sure what to make of Cassandra and Thomas's plan to imprison their father, though Thomas seems to relish the idea. So here's the question: Is the father crazy? He certainly can be violent, and the fact that he can fling Cassandra around and then offer casual concern would indicate some, um, abnormality. But then, she's casual about it! So locking him away doesn't seem like the worst thing, especially when they find his CAT SAT ON THE MAT work and have a Stephen King Shining moment. But apparently that's all it takes to unblock the father's genius: By the time Topaz rescues him (Smith is most ungenerous to her here, I think), he has the beginnings of a bound-to-be-celebrated new work that no one in his family (except maybe Thomas) understands. And at last Topaz finds why she's necessary to him.
Then we're at the seaside town, where Simon and Cassandra come to realize the truth about Rose and Neil. Was anyone surprised by that? Do you think Simon really loved Rose? I think he says something very telling to Cassandra, when talking about why people try to describe beauty: "I suppose it's the complete identification with beauty one's seeking." And of course just pages later he's on the verge of asking Cassandra to marry him when she puts the kibosh on it.
So did she did that for him or for herself? Though Smith leaves the door wide open for a reconsideration on Cassandra's part—when circumstances are "favourable." Do you think that happens? How do you think they all end up? And finally, what do you think the title means?
Thanks for reading along, Bookies, both this month and all this year. Don't forget: Vote for your January book by this Sunday! (You had to know I'd get in one more plug this year.) I wish you the very best, a merry Christmas, and a very happy 2011.
—Maura
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Take Advantage of Free Shipping Day on Etsy Today
Now in it's third year, Free Shipping Day just continues to grow. This year more than 1,500 stores are participating. You can find all the details on the Free Shipping Day website.
But what I'm especially excited about this year is the fact that a slew of sellers on Etsy (71 as of when this post was written) are joining in and offering free shipping in their shops today. You can find the complete list of participating shops here: Etsy Stores Free Shipping Day.
I browsed through the stores and found my top five favorite items:
Simple Gold Circle Earrings by knockknockstudio, $36
Cable Scarf from kneatknitcreations, $18
Roses Are Red Stud Earrings from DBellaStar, $7
Golden Circle Necklace from streetnoodles, $28
Color Lobes Original Art on Antique Book Page from kipi, $43
Are you taking advantage of Free Shipping Day this year? If so, what are you buying?
(All images are from their respective sellers. Thank you to daniellexo for tipping me off to the link.)
Artist Lisa Grue
Danish artist and fashion illustrator Lisa Grue just released her new signed prints under the theme, Where is Alice?, meant to help us see the magic in the everyday life as well as our childhood and to also lay truth on the fact that so many modern woman are looking for adventure in the wrong places. Her work is sweet but edgy at the same time as this tension is interesting to her and helps her to better tell her story. You can find these, and other prints (shown below), in her online shop here. She ships worldwide.
Lisa graduated from The Danish Design School in 2001 with degrees in textile design and graphic design. Since then, she has been active in both commercial work and in producing fine art and she describes her aesthetic as, "A sublime cocktail of poetic femininity, with patterns of flowers and butterflies mixing with beautiful women and animals and a hint of Alice in Wonderland."
Her illustrative work has appeared in a number of beauty and fashion magazines like Nylon, though other clients include fashion designer Anna Sui and Kidrobot. Her work is strong and because of her vision, she is steadily gaining attention from around the world thanks to blogs, books she has participated in, magazine work, and more.
Enjoy!
(images: lisa grue)
