Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 430

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet: Conclusion (Spoiler Alert!)

Hi, everyone!

I hope everyone wrapped up the book this weekend and loved the ending as much as I did! The part that I knew was coming all along finally came: Keiko and Henry reunite. But first things first. The author of the book, Jamie Ford, has graciously agreed to answer a selection of our questions about the story. Feel free to ask away. Before I dive into my thoughts on the third leg of the book, I'll ask Jamie my questions:

• I've seen critics call your story a modern-day Romeo and...

What Are Your Houseguest Pet Peeves?

The week before last, my parents and I visited my sister on the West coast. It was nice to take a break and see my family, and it was extra special because we were celebrating my sister's graduation.

All three of us stayed at my sister's house which she shares with two other students--effectively doubling the number of people in residence. I know we all tried to be good houseguests—keeping our luggage and personal belongings out of the way, being aware of her roommate's schedules, generally...

Color Inspiration

Do you love color? Do you love to craft? Are you obsessed with pattern? Well then I hope you don't mind, but I have to blow a very large horn today (no, not a vuvuzela!). I'm blowing the horn of fellow blogger and friend Leslie Shewring from A Creative Mint. Leslie is a blog author, photographer and all around creative lady who lives in the Los Angeles area. Here is a sampling of her photographs that you can find on her beautiful blog space.

Leslie is a devoted wife and mother with small...

When Did You Learn to Swim? What About Your Kids?

Speaking of swimming pools—and given how hot and humid it has been here lately, I'm desperate to cool down—I was thinking this weekend about kids, pools, safety, and swimming lessons.

The issue came to mind when we spent a weekend at my husband's family's house near the NJ/PA border, where they have a pool. Now that my daughter is crawling and even more mobility is on the horizon, we are ever-more vigilant about her every move, and definitely when there's a swimming pool in the vicinity. It s...

Pretty (and Cheap!) Candle Holders

What better way to dress up your summer table than with some colorful tealight holders? Luna Bazaar makes some of my favorite affordable options. Starting at just $2 a pop, you can order in bulk and give them away as summer hostess gifts in sets of six. The low price makes them perfect for decorating larger parties (even weddings!) - put one at each place setting as a fun take-home favor for your guests. 

Here, a few of the stylish Printed Rice Paper Votives:

 

And here, the Capiz Lotus C...

Faye Kim Designs And Jewelry Sale on ideeli.com

I've been admiring the jewelry from Faye Kim for a little while now. I mean, who can resist fine metals and precious gemstones?? Not I!

Faye's collections are inspired by period pieces and antiques, however they are unique enough to breathe new life into any of your favorite outfits. Checkout her pieces HERE.

Now if you've fallen in love with her work as I have, make sure to visit her current sale (from now to tomorrow evening-3am) on ideeli.com. It's on select sterling silver pieces.

Tips and Tricks for Staying Focused

I just might be the queen of distraction. Not only am I easily distracted, but I have an amazing ability of distracting other people.

Let me give you an example: Have you ever seen the comic in the paper Pearls Before Swine? Back on May 23, the entire 18-panel cartoon was about distraction. You should check it out now; it's really funny. I'll be here when you come back.

Did you follow the link? Did you scroll through a number of Pearls Before Swine comic strips before returning here? How long ...

Confessions of a Multitasker

One of my biggest gripes these days—and I know I'm not alone—is when other people multitask. Whether it's mid-conversation, and I can hear them typing in the background, or mid-meal, and they're checking their Blackberries, I feel it's rude and ruins the quality of time we're spending together. But, I'm ashamed to admit that I might be guilty of a slightly different kind of multitasking.

When I have people over to my home, whether it's for a brunch or a dinner, I always hop up to clear the...

A Sandwich Bag Upgrade

Have you ever used plastic sandwich bags to tote around your makeup? How about shoe bags, lingerie bags, jewelry or shopping bags? Well, I must confess. I have. You name a carrying device that has the potential of closing and I've probably used it to stash cosmetics, skincare, or hair care products. Hey, desperate times call for desperate measures! 

But, recently, I decided that things were getting a bit out of hand (the fact that all these products have taken over every flat counter space...

Fabulous Father's Day Gift Ideas!

There is no perfect way to thank your father for being the most important man in your life (shhhh don't tell your husband or boyfriend), but you can try. Here are a few ideas to get you on the right track...

Ray-Ban Aviators, $99

You're dad might have started losing his "cool factor," but you can bring him back up to speed with these "Top Gun" style aviator sunglasses. 

Vineyard Vines USO Tie, $75

Not all dads hate ties! So, if your father has appreciated all the ties you've purchased him...