jungle dream pagoda

H-Ween Dress and the Last of the H-Ween Decor!

2009-10-29T14:34:00.000-07:00

Can you believe I am creating again? I can't.

I am into tee-shirt dresses for the little petal. She loves all things skullie....but has such a distinct old-fashioned little lady side.

Thrifted skullie with rainbow tee + a vintage embroidered table runner (for the sleeves) + the hem of a vintage slip = Wee Petal style!!!!

Another tee-shirt dress. This tee was gifted long ago from Mary Ann. It also has Wee Petal Style written all over it ....well actually it has "Whisky -A-Go-Go written on it (tee hee).Just add lots-o-lace and voila...a simple creation fit for 1st grade princess!

Look at these pumpkin flowers!I 1st saw these over at Brandy's place...and after a fruitless search for Gladiolas found these at "The Thumb". I love them paired with floating skellies!

....and last on the skellie front...3 dollar store skellies ...seeing no,hearing no,or speaking no evil!!!!
I think the holidays are helping me find my groove again with this new space I live in. Its finally feeling like home.

Gettin' My Spooky Ookie On!

2009-10-21T12:37:00.000-07:00

Tis' the time of year to be playful and ookie!
Tis' the time of year to create a Halloweenie Tree !
This one is much bigger than last years(still pushing myself to think on a grander scale!).

Note to self:Next year make an extra Halloweenie Tree to balance out the expanse of white fireplace real-estate!

In the dining room I experimented with different sized candy jars and a skelly mirror,bought from Target for half off the day after halloween last year.

This "spells" sign was also a day after Halloween target purchase.I have my eye on a few goodies to grab this year too on Nov. 1st.

Look! The Mummy and Wolfman are hitching a ride with Elsa Lanchester!

In the Wee Petals room the dollies are having a grand time with the monsters!

Even Lilly Munster came to play!

Didn't you always wish for a bat neclace like Lily's?You can get one here.

.....and it just wouldn't be Halloween without insanely talented Amanda's Halloween mix C.D. !!!!!!
This years "Welcome To My Nightmare" came in the mail yesterday. I am happily driving the girls to and from kid-tivities whilst listening to such tuneful horrific-ness as:Glen Millers:"Swingin' at the Seance,Siouxsie Sues:"Rawhead and Bloody Bones,Tom Waits:"We're All Mad Here,and my FAV-O-RITE...the late great Eartha Kitts "I'd Rather Be Burned as a Witch". Did you know Amanda is a distant relative of hers? Is that the cooliest lineage EVER???
Thank you sweet Amanda!

Planning a Beautifully Creepy Halloween

2009-10-08T07:45:00.000-07:00

Honestly ,how much in the mood for the Samhain Season does this doll image put you in? I cannot recall where I came across this odd little shot ,but something about it caused me to right click and save the picture.I think its the tattered dress and how she is turned to the wall....it just conjures up such a creepy back-story for me.

My own creepy but beautiful thrifted dollie.Evidently she is a crying doll Tiny Tears or something like that...even weirder!

Imagine her contained in a terrarium,like this dollie who had the unfortunate experience of sitting for a painting by Amy Kollar Anderson.

Perhaps my vintage hoodoo witchie doll might provide a bit of inspiration.

If you need a beautiful but creepy something to watch. This spooky but gorgeous anime piece Hell Girl will certainly put a snap in your drawers. Poor doomed Ai ,just be very sure vengeance is what you wish for before you pull the red string.

And finally this amazingly adorable short film starring the creepily beautiful Sisters Kane will mesmerize you.
Here it is "Callalily" by Christy Kane .

Dining Rooms ,Donkeys and Lamps(oh my)!

2009-09-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share my dining room progress(you may click on any image to enlarge)! The walls are still fairly artless,and one day in the future I am thinking of replacing my washtub chairs with something bigger,taller and more unusual and statement making. I realize galvanized steel washtub chairs are definitely not something you see every day...but I am trying to implant the thought "think on a bigger scale with larger pieces"! Ofcourse I have no idea what these fantasy chairs look like,any thoughts ,anyone? The table and chair in the corners are probably not going to make the cut. I am considering replacing them with these modern book shelves.

This is how the entrance to the dining room is framed.The small rectangles you see are actually little cut out "windows".

The lighting plot in the house is quite wonderful,and instead of a chandelier in the dining room,there is a recessed "coffin-like" cut out with a rectangle wired for light "echo" of the beautiful bamboo floor .

Directly behind the table is a new(to me) buffet/display case.I am unsure of what period it is from.Unless its from the mid century I am simply not a furniture era spotter! I am guessing its from the late 20's or 30's...but then again perhaps its a 40's piece! Anyone care to speculate.

It has little etched/painted flourishes on the glass and the back of the case has this bizzarro world silver sparkly wallpaper stuff that I adore!!!!!! So much better to show off my donkey planter collection.
Containing my beloved donkeys to this elegant little piece that possesses its own imperfect quirks really elevates the importance of this crazy kitschy bunch in my mind!

I have topped it off with one of my favorite inherited pieces from my Grandma. My husband likes to call this diamond shaped hand painted mirror "Lone buck at purple mountain". My grandparents evidently watched it being painted on a trip to Colorado. Rumor has it there is also a round variation of this treasure at my mothers house that she cannot find!Lighting the way are my adored matador and matador-ess lamps from the 50's.I jettisoned(and carefully stored)the giant fabulous original shades and replaced the bulbs with big round clear ones. To me ,without their shades,they have become giant candelabras. And again,I have achieved my brand of elegance through a witty wink!

Long ago I wrote of my passion for lamps. I simply cannot get enough of them. Figurine lamps are certainly my favorites,like this Jeannette MacDonald and Nelson Eddy "Naughty Marietta" chalk lamp shown here and snapped up from a thrift store for 20 bux!

Vintage bedside lamps (one of a pair),I grabbed (both) at a garage sale for 10 bux!

A tiny Shawnee Chinese empress lamp.

My Swordfish lamp with the crazy feather implanted shade!

...and ofcourse my fave little Asian pair that has lived with us for the past decade from the mid-century decade!

Lastly getting back to another part of the house...I decided on this multi-color block rug from Ikea(notice how all my art looks like little poastage stamps? I gotta get some giant art!). With a biegey/taupe love pit sectional I wanted a piece with color to make the sectional really pop!

I think I achieved my goal.

Thriftventure Chock Full of Fall Fabulosities!

2009-09-19T14:54:00.000-07:00

It has been a bit of time here at JDP when last I had a posting about my thriftventures.Thrifting is still as much a part of me today as when I was a teen.Absolutely no where else can one happen upon the most unique,intriguing and REJECTED items of our society.A true modern art museum in every cramped and cluttered shop!Knick-knacks,embroidered linens,rhinestone jewels...... that X-mas angel in the spitting image of Rupaul....Its all there just waiting to be rescued.
I am sure we all have our own mental "to be thrifted" list and on mine was an Alfred Shaheen dress.

Well kiss my Eames chair I found one for 3 BUX!!!! WITH A PAGODA on it!!!
Alfred Shaheen was famous for his silk screened print aloha wear in the 50's through the the late 80's. I am guessing this piece is a shift from the late 60's. I have already wore it with skinny jeans and pumps,but it needs a bit of tailoring for a better fit.

Click to enlarge and check out the silk screened signature!

Another piece from 68-71ish time frame. A coat dress from Niemans,isn't it a bit of a thrill to thrift high-end vintage? This was 4 bux...and I am kuh-razy for the print,green flowers has always been a personal favorite concept! I'm thinkin' blk tights and docs...or heck maybe green tights if I can find them.

An ethereal bed jacket for under 2 dollars to go with the rest of my collection .

...and can you totally dig crazy Aunt Matilda's left over couch upholstery dress? This is the frock I am most looking forward to wearing this fall...definitely black Docs and black tights(price tag, 2 bux)!

Also at under 2bux a statement necklace in the guise of a butterfly,this will pair nicely with my newest bedjacket.

and we finally come to what is probably my favorite thrifted item of the summer(just last week). A copper cameo pendant! I also have a pewter cameo necklace thrifted long ago(I think in my single days!).I remember paying 5 bux for it and it is still one of my FAVORITE pieces to wear! This one cost 6 bux(not bad inflation)and that sort of thrift store price always gives me pause...but not when its a COPPER CAMEO NECKLACE!!!!!!!!

Last but not least a pretty little porcelain bauble that has inspired a Halloweenie project...can you guess what it is?

A Peek into My Little Piece of Bloggy Heaven

2009-09-09T13:43:00.000-07:00

Come and take a little peek ....just around the corner of my bedroom....

Into a little nook....right across from my Magic Closet .....you can tell its mine ...cuz' any place I park my boots I call home.

Oh,and then there's the dead giveaway of the impracticality that defines JDP. The usage of a vintage embroidered tablecloth thrown over a 50's table rather than a proper desk! That and of course Martin Denny's Exotica album cover screen saver.

A spot for my also exotic tchotchkes from the 50's ,some that have been with me FO-EVAH on my little whimsical life journey....and finally a spot for my horsie TV lamp inherited from my great Aunt Margaret.

'Tis quite possible this is a temporary set-up,but I am feeling creative here...so for the time being I shall delight in my nook of whimsy and fun.

The Back to School Fairy and Yummy Fall Television Addictions!

2009-08-25T21:29:00.000-07:00

Well naturally "The Back to School" Fairy visits my house,doesn't she come to yours?
What started when my oldest was still in Preschool and I decided a Scooby Doo or Barbie lunchbox was far too mainstream a choice for my Pretty Preschool Princess...
(the Lisa- Frank designs were still ultra girlie but also gave a nod to an edgier kind of 3 year old!(and yes I am sure I said "lookee she gave you a lunchbox with a picture of herself on it!"))* has continued as an event to look forward too. Every year they become less school oriented and more like stocking stuffer's!

This year I discovered the magical realm of Bella Sara for my horsie loving Wee Petal.This is a sort of "trading card/fun free website" game.
You buy and trade the cards with your friends and you care for a herd of virtual pet horses online. The cards have beautiful artwork and positive little quotes such as"Being happy helps your friends feel happy too."(the 13 year old could certainly benefit from this wisdom!).

Speaking of Crooked Halo.I decided sugar free gum and Simone Legno (the artist behind Tokidoki) book covers from Target were prolly enough.

On to the good stuff...fall TV....!!!!
... Project Runway
is FINALLY back!!!!!!!!!!!
The move to lifetime seems to have not diminished the show at all,infact it seems quite intact except for the shots of that marvelous New York skyline replaced by the hazy L.A. landscape.
The challenge pleased me immensely,because I truly believe a red carpet dress should give you a pretty good idea of what kind of designers these folks are!

For the record Eppersons dress was my fave,and I TOTALLY predict he will be in the final 3!I have no idea why he was not in the top.
Louise is obviously my fave this season...and I loved her dress too. Wish (as she herself said on the show)the fabric colors had contrasted more.

Perhaps not as contrasted as this gorg and unique piece ,but in the ballpark,I cannot wait to see what else she has up her sleeve so to speak!.
I am also curious to see more from Ra Mon,Gordana,Irina,Nicolas,and yes ...cute untrained 1st round winner Chris!
I completely agreed with the auf'ing of Ari,I mean geodesic dome fabric is very clever unfortunately what she did with it was not.Qrystal,had best up her game and her "taste level",'cuz I think had the judges been in a different mood,Ari might still be doing hand stand design meditations!
Joss Whedon's Dollhouse returns Sept 25th..and I anxiously await its return.We downloaded "Epitaph" from itunes ,the unaired episode from season 1...and all I can say is..it was chilling...and Joss Whedon just dares to go there!!!!!!

This summer I got into watching the BBC America channel and found a beautiful and funny little dark jewel of a show,Being Human.
I love a good monster with a heart of gold tale and this show has 3 uniquely "human" monsters. The only thing that would make it perfect was if the season was not so short. The season finale airs this weekend. Oh...and then there's that pesky preview of the main plot points in the middle of the commercials the BBC insists upon.Does this bug anyone else?

Next up my thrift haul from the WHOLE dang nab summer featuring this beautiful vintage butterfly necklace!
* I know such extreme overusage of the parenthesis mark!

New Magic Closet Vs Old Magic Closet

2009-08-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

Perhaps I still have a few readers from way back when...
that remember....how I always referred to my closet as The Magic Closet.I actually ALWAYS intended to do a post on the big giant vintage packed magical space that was my closet at The Cliff May home.
.....but alas it was not to be....

So I present to you....(please click to enlarge for full enjoyment of any image) .... my new magic closet!!!!

It is much smaller than the other so I had to be both clever and store a few (hundred) items.....

and find a few purging candidates.
...and then a few more...I always do my best to use the same type of hanger so my clothes will hang the same height. I get these wonderful wooden ones 3 to a pack at one of my local dollar stores.

Housing my large vintage purse collection was a particularly delicate dilemma.
Sure I have more than one person could ever possibly need....but I really DO need several dozen lucite ,straw and box bags!!!!
I hung them and stacked them on EVERY available surface (artfully of course)!
....but you see there really is something wildly inspiring to me about looking at my scrumtrulescent bits and baubles every single day !

Here is a tiny clothes-less area to set wee knicky-knacks and dollies!

And now for comparison here are a few shots of the former magic closet(snapped on moving day for posterity)...Not only did I have bins and shelves for my unhung clothes...I also used the bins for,sheet music,headshots and resumes,books,scripts,.......

....vintage fabric ,embroidery,and doilies,my dollies(for an impromptu dollie doppelganger story.....

...and of course my clothes and lucite bags!!!!There was even room for my dress form.

Heres a crazy "in the heat of the moment I must have this done today"decoupaged chest of drawers(that nobody but me had to see).
This homely little crazy quilt chest holds a lifetime of paper ephemera and is now relegated to the garage.
I have had quite a bit of difficulty feeling like my old creative self in our new home.One of the ways this little pack rat was able to live such a clutter free existence in the other home was I always kept the chaos confined to my magic closet.Once upon a time it was not unusual to find me sitting on the floor of my closet coming up with my next greatest idea.
I feel as if in packing away so much delicious and unusual flotsam and jetsam my power is gone.
My creative space is gone.
I am hoping to reclaim it through blogging.
So.....where does your creative power flow from?

Summertime ...and the livin' is lazy ,um EZ !

2009-07-29T12:58:00.001-07:00

We are back from Seaside in Florida!

after a crazy/busy summer filled with swim practice every morning(wee petal) and rehearsals and shows(crooked halo)everyday........

Lolling about on the beach was a welcome respite.

....and good thing too...we returned home(in Dallas Texas!!!) to a broken air conditioner.

Good thing we love fudgsicles ...and our new modern ceiling fans!
Thankfully as of 3 hours ago the air is back on.
...but All that 80+ indoor temp makes a person a bit crazy and lazy.

Nothing to do but veg out to Japanese paperdoll sites all day...
Poupee Girl...

...and Funny Girl on the TCM channel!

What I CANNOT wait for is the return of Project Runway!
Did you know the gorgeous Etsian Louise Black is a contestant? Gosh I hope the show loses nothing in the move,I forced myself to watch The Fashion Show....but was not in love,despite a few clever challenges.

....and now a challenge for you.......

....any ideas for non-traditional art on this very white and very tall expanse of fireplace realestate?
I am open to specific artist suggestions or non traditional large,sculptural,stand-in "art",a crazy chain link fence gate perhaps on either side?....nah!
Seriously, I am needing inspiration!

The Vintage Dentist Table and Cinderella

2009-07-15T17:28:00.001-07:00

So I am having some challenges decorating the new Pagoda.
I must keep it clean and chic,but I must also insert my witty winks(why yes that is a memory stick dangling from my groovy turntable!).

How about a vintage dentist table on wheels as a lamp stand?

At under 30 bux I felt it was a pretty decent deal.Unfortunately the rust was a bit of a buzz kill.

I am sure there are those of you who adore a weathered patina,but its just not my bag.

Who knew all that was needed was a few strips of sand paper and a whole LOT of elbow grease? Bet I burned through a few calories on that project.Ofcourse now I need a manicure.

....and here is lovely Crooked Halo learning to be a proper Disney Princess.

....and Mommy 15 yrs prior doing the NOT so Disney version.This weekend is Les Mis!

Here is a sneak peek on whats up next on the decorating To do list. It has been fun finding new pieces to eclecticize the new pad!

NYC and back again!

2009-07-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

Hellooooooooo out there!!!!! there....there....there...

The echoes of her neglected blog were almost deafening.

So heres the dealio.......I want to blog and share ideas ....but I am SOOOOOOOOOOOO busy!!!! The little Petal is on swimteam,Crooked Halo is in 2(thats right, count them T-W-O )shows!,I gotta travlin' hubs ,AND a new house to settle in to!
I am like the subject of an Oprah show about women spread too thin!
NYC was a pretty fabby pace to spend a 13th birthday....thats right,It has happened I live with a teen-ager!
We saw Hair(natch) ,and what I consider to be the best new musical in ages...Next to Normal!
Both shows exceeding my expectations!

It was a whirlwind trip...but we did manage to squeeze in a trip to Kinokuniya,my fave Japanese book store!

I bought The Wee Petal a few boxes of Re-Ments.

We stopped off in the cafe.......
....for a green tea frappe.
The store is beautiful ,especially with this mural by menga artist Takehiko Inoue,as you come up the escalator!

I grabbed a Japanese Dolly mag for my sis and scanned a few pages for your viewing pleasure! I want both of these dolly outfits for myself!
Maybe even this Blythe look! Someday ,I believe I will go crazy on Blythe ,but not today!
I have always had a thing for pose dolls and have thrifted myself a few!
It never occured to me to re-dress them....hmmmm.....

Now on June 11th didn't I just say I would be back to fill you in later in the week?
Long week huh?
So this weekend Ruby plays Cinderella in Cinderella(just like mommy did 15 yrs ago),and a couple of weekends after that she plays Eponine in Les Miz!!!!
Hows your busy summer.....????????

....oh ......and happy 4th,if I come back soon and ask(read beg) for decorating inspiration help ,will you be there? This new Pagoda is a much larger canvas to paint on!

So....... Guess What I've Been Up To?

2009-06-11T15:35:00.000-07:00

Wow ,a house just isn't a home without art on the walls!
Obviously ,I have been holding out on you......but life has been challenging in the last few months with quite a few ups and downs. Soon I will reveal the whole tale!

....but first Crooked Halo and I are off to New York City to catch some theatre.
I promise to check in next week.

So.......what have you been up to?

Early Valentines!

2009-02-13T23:44:00.000-08:00

...and she's back!
I bet all of you wonder why I do not just excuse myself and take an official bloggy break? Well,I'm afraid if I made it official it just might make me want to rip my clothes from my body and float off nekkid ,into the cyber ether,in nothing but a wee heart belt like these cute cupids depicted here in a vintage Hallmark honeycomb centerpiece!...and besides I continue to lie to myself and tell myself "Self, just look at that glimmer of light,why its almost amber. See it?Right there ,waaaaaay in the distance,at the end of that looooong Pagoda tunnel!Why it will be no time at all till you are once again a blogging fool!".

...and who else ,but all of you ,would I show off my half and yet whole hearted attempts to make merry for the seasons? This time I spruced up the Wee Petals digs with my painted stray tree branch trick.
The great thing about using discarded sticks is just toss the little tree away when you are done,no bulky storage issues.
All of your vintage valentines from the 70's (perfect for a little girl that loves cute doggies)will fit neatly into that pink vintage ruffled candy box(also from the 70's)that you thrifted for mere pennies(I paid 35 cents for mine 2 weeks ago!).
Honestly.... I could never leave this creative community and all the amazing cyber sisters I've "met". I mean look at Amanda who knows my style to the letter.She gifted me with a box of early Valentine prezzies at the beginning of the month.Just look at this amazing black crushed velvet mini dress she sent. I'm thinkin' black tights ,Doc Martens,and ropes of pearls and crazy silver costume jewelry amulets.Hmmmm,maybe just the pearls ,a matching velvet wrap and a wacky yet bodacious vintage bag.....can't decide yet. I just wish I had had it the 1st weekend of Feb(tell ya why in a sec).

Can you even believe this regal sea foam green(she knows me so well) beauty. Amanda calls her "Mame" and she(the dress) immediately makes me think of my favorite quote from that movie(What,you don't have a favorite quote from Mame?!?!): "Life is a banquet and most poor fools are starving". What a great inspiration quote to live your life by. This quote always makes me think of one of my best friends,a great man ,and a true inspiration. He knows who he is.
But back to Amanda's Mame,I have plans for this grand dame of a dress ,I shall reveal them at a later date. I love that something sent to me from a cyber sista
has inspired me to share again,but thats what we do in Bloglandia share our spirit.
On to the sharing portion.
So where have I been? I have been going non stop since before the holidays and I have finally come up for air only this past week. My oldest babe took on her second lead role at a professional theatre (the show just closed,if only I had had that crushed velvet number for the last weekend!). My child played young Violet in Violet a Jeanine Tesori musical. It tells of the spiritual journey of a young woman(older Violet)who as a child suffered a horrible disfiguring accident,and her travels to discover her own inner beauty. Young Vi and older Violet share the stage as they travel and learn about love and courage,and acceptance.
I understand,this seems an odd subject choice for a musical,but these types of human stories is the direction where Musical theatre must continue to head to be relevant.

I must also share that the opening preview was probably one of the greatest nights of my life. My respect for my flesh and blood as an actor has been one of the most satisfying experiences to DATE. To see my own passion reflected back to me through Ruby was quite something indeed.As an actor we know when another actor "belongs" on the stage,and my baby was incandescent.
Ah,but I have 2 little valentines to be proud of.My Wee Petal continues to ,pretty much wake up and begin producing art,as evidenced by her mini me project that I helped her with.
Its time for "A Wee Petal Style Break"
My littlests style pleases me quite a bit. Uniform or no uniform she infuses her own spin on things. She is already a fan of Vans, skullies ,and layering and it warms my heart every time I look at her.
So what I guess I am trying to say on this Valentines Eve,is....... I have always been a bit of a hedonist,I kinda have always suffered from a bit of "Its all about me" disease",don't get me wrong at the same time I would never have called myself selfish(and don't think others would have either).
.....but,right now is about me facilitating the life of the other 3 people that live in the Pagoda. My hubs is traveling more than ever and I must be the glue right now,and sometimes its hard to get in front of my own life.
I shall return ,but who knows when.......

Its A Wee Petal Wonderland!

2008-12-13T09:24:00.000-08:00

I promised a style post on Princess Wee Petal. Lets start with her Christmas style!We decided on a pink candylicious sort of theme!

The main display goes on her pink dresser inherited from her big sister(as is much of her furniture).

The lamps are thrifted from my single days I sprayed them baby pink and stripped their shades off and added big round clear bulbs.

I feel very affectionately attached to these little angels and reindeer.I hope my wee one will always have fond memories of these treasures.

Pixies,elves ,reindeer ,and Santas...

and more pixies,elves,reindeer,and Santa's!

I even stock the "pantry" with toy Christmas dishes every year.

For impromptu tea parties.

Hmmm...whats on the menu?

Clarice(wheres her bow?)and a pink reindeer get to play!

An animated angel stands guard at the foot of her bed!

....and back to Wee Petal style. A vintage quilted Chinese coat and other jackets embellished with vintage textiles (by mommy!),and a seasonal purse.

If my oldest baby Crooked Halo is my budding actress,then my little Wee Petal is my budding visual artist. Oh yes,she has her own "studio",a place to create her little Burton-esque people.

Though there are definitely times she takes her need to draw on every surface too far....and now she's WRITING too!
Just in case you are wondering, red Sharpie(I know ,how did she get that?) on the door does not come off with bleach! Time to paint the door!

...and now for a head to toe shot. Smile with your eyes baby!I love how with little kids nothing matches but everything goes together. Vans,vintage,ruffles ,Julius,and Clarice!

Bye Bye Betty

2008-12-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

I feel a little sad at the passing of Betty Page.
She seemed to make the art of being a pinup girl wholesome....and I will never forget those bangs!
Bye bye Betty.

...and so it begins.....

2008-12-08T18:32:00.000-08:00

Um....holiday decorating that is! This blow up 60's Santa is probably my fave new x-mas decor,grabbed from an estate sale for under a dollar!

I always seem to do up my mantel 1st!

The "before" of my X-mas tree! Click here for the "after"!

Close up views of the mantel. I am really into these pointy tree topper thingie's this year,but not as tree toppers!

See!

Once upon a time I crafted decoupage frames for my girls Santa pics!

Yes,ghosts of Christmas crafts past!
This year I bought all 3 of us girls matching Nick and Nora PJ's from Target for Christmas morning! We could not wait to try them out! Stay tuned for more X-mas escapades in Pagoda-ville!

Happy Turkey Day ,Lets Play Google image Fashion Stylist!

2008-11-27T08:41:00.000-08:00

In honor of a day we should all focus on the many wonderful ways our life is AMAZING.... I would like to reach back into the archives of JDP and propose a round of my Google Image Fashion Stylist game. Remember I do NOT own any of these treasures ,except in my own google-able fantasies!
...and oh....how I wish I owned this turkey dress!!!!!! This image was sent to me by my adorable and dear friend Timothy of the crazy cool and always opinionated site The Epistle of Timothy. Could I ever have some fun in this vintage dream dress!

I typed in turkey + necklace and found this delightfully doomed Tom!

I typed in Black vintage purse and eventually settled on this gem!

I cheated and actually grabbed this image from The Victorian Trading Company

Thee little black booty shoes are perfect!
...and last but not least I would top it off with this spectacular example of a vintage leopard coat. I actually have 2 leopard beauties myself. ...but... can you imagine your entrance for Thanksgiving luncheon with your dreamy turkey dress peeking out the bottom?
I wish you all such a beautiful day of reflecting on the wonder of your own lives!

New Treasures(atleast to me)That Are Inspiring Me.

2008-11-21T11:25:00.000-08:00

I know......JDP blogging twice in one month? Am I feeling OK?
My answer would have to be an emphatic yes!My mood is much improved and I am really trying to take care of myself rather than being overwhelmed by my family's busy schedules.
I am trying my best to reignite my creative passions.
One beautiful step in the right direction was the recent acquisition of this lovely dress form. I have wanted one for EVAH!I have been faithfully stalking Craigs List for the perfect specimen(I much preferred it to be ecru and neutral).
I purchased it from a lovely older lady who had used it as a dress form in her Nevada resale shop in Carson city. She regaled me with wonderful tales of selling the SAME wedding dress over and over. I guess it was a convenient stop on the way in and out of that Vegas wedding!
My hope is that this little gal will help me bring to life some of the visions that have been dancing in my head. She presently resides in my magic closet. Hey, any ideas for her name?
A more regular workout schedule and keeping a much better eye on my diet has already resulted in weight loss.....
Thus making me step away from the overalls and back into some wonderful thrifted treasures.
Like this yellow shirt dress from the 60's for 3 bux!
Heres how it looks in the floor collection:
Thrifted Yellow shirt dress
Black Cardi with silver embroidery from the 50's ,inherited from my Grandma
Vintage Barbie bag used as purse,antique mall
Black tights,DKNY (always the best brand)
...and old school Doc Martens ,thrifted!

Heres how it looks on,snapped after a long day of school volunteering and mommy taxi cab driving!This look is what I called, "Worship of the Ugly" ,back in my college days and it still feels right.I gotta be me ,and silly discarded thrift store vintage(somewhat different than meticulously curated vintage clothing store vintage) never fails to inspire me.

This little straw bag will certainly see some action in the Spring,but these crazy Sci Fi dollies are really making me "wanna rock and roll and party every day"(especially the star spangled cutie on the right). Hmm,,,perhaps they could guest star in one of my Dollie Doppleganger stories!All thrifted for practically no money.

I have always loved these stackable mid century modern chairs designed by truly inspiring Danish Architect Arne Jacobsen.

Imagine my surprise and delight when I found these pint size copies at Target!
....and on sale for 14 dollars each! They are perfect for my Wee Petal.Soon I should devote an entire post to her own burgeoning style. Her room is merely an extension of her old fashioned girl meets edgy punk-ette(I am lovin' the tiny Vans she is rocking at school each day)!

Ah heck,how 'bout a sneak preview?
This stove was a Christmas present a couple of X-mas'es ago. I bought it at an Antique mall for under 50 bux!It will certainly become an heirloom toy for the generations.You see ,I have a philosophy when it comes to childrens toys.I believe that any chance you get to buy something beautiful do it!I much prefer to see wooden food strewn about my house to the plastic variety!Give me Groovy Girls over Barbie(give ME the vintage Barbies!) whenever possible.
I realize this is not always a possibility. Baby gear can tend to be on the plastic-ee side,and then there are always the plastic tiny pony addiction that atleast can be gathered and hidden!

If your sweetie pie loves toy pots and pans, I say thrift the real thing! They are cheaper more durable and more pleasing on the eyes!

Speaking of Christmas these new to me vintage pieces will be fun tiny inspiration for this years holiday.Can you believe the print on the vintage X-mas tree skirt? I think it might look better as a little girls skirt!

This handmade vintage felt wreath was lovingly created by some pair of sweet hands and now it will be loved again at my house!
...and what treasures are inspiring you?

My Own Vintage Clothing Fashion Magazine,November 2008:Let Freedom Ring!

2008-11-06T18:06:00.000-08:00

It has been a big week for America,and honestly,I just can't seem to wipe the smile off my face.
It is indeed a new day!
While feeling in a celebratory mood,I decided to resurrect my online fashion zine and share my election day garb!I voted early,(another day I smiled quite a bit)but worked a shift at the wee petals school for their Bake Sale(I made peanut butter blossom cookies!!)on election day. Could'ja get anymore "all American" than an old fashioned election day bake sale?
I had to put my own patriotic spin on things,so this is what I wore(click to enlarge any photo)!
A 1.55 thrifted 1980's secretary dress!It fit like a dream,and of course I added my own JDP touches,tooled leather belt ,matching cowboy boots,and bag,and my Obama button! I got the extra bonus of having the admiration of my beautiful Sweet AND Sour 12 year old daughter(Crooked Halo) when I picked her up from school. She very sweetly showered me with compliments on my look! It was quite unseasonably warm here,or ,if it had been colder,I might have chosen.....
My trusty overalls and a light blue lace vintage PJ top,cinched with a wide reproduction 50's belt,and topped off with a favorite Pendleton Wool jacket from the 40's with REAL mother of pearl buttons.For extra festive-ness and flash I would have worn my red boots and my Frida-esque tortured heart necklace!
My denim jacket with the absolute PERFECT patina is shown here adorned 80's style with an array of vintage campaign buttons.
I have collected these buttons over the years from garage sales and flea markets.
I am a life long Democrat ,but do not discriminate when I see a presidential campaign button. If you look close will see some really old ones. They are reproductions,but I still adore them!The Nixon and Humphrey buttons are original(and of course the Obama button).
...and what to wear in this unseasonably warm fall?
While I am continuing to clock lots of hours at the gym ,and cut muey carbohydrates(YAY me!)... I am still quite shackled to my overalls(much like I believe America has been feeling lately under the current administration!). Good thing I LOVE my overalls!
Here I added a newly thrifted for 2.55 bucks,ecru and green lace PJ top,brown vintage Cowboy boots,and a vintage crocodile bag( a recent gift from my mother).Although I feel its a bit odd to carry a croc bag,the purse is older than I am so I say let the poor gator have its moment in the sun again!
This is my new favorite necklace(also a recent gift from my Mom).I am Ka-Razy for portrait pendants and this is one of the prettiest I have ever seen!
...and what should I wear on Thanksgiving?
How about this shell pink lace dress? Yet ANOTHER recent gift from my mother(does she know me or does she know me!)!Oh,and she got it at a garage sale for 1 dollar!
Its actually a bit big,but I'll think of something and the there is a spot on the bodice anyone with spot cleaning advice?Worn with vintage boots,my Grandmothers Pagoda bag,and topped off(if it happens to be cold)with my very own Diffa Jacket. I won this little cape at a silent auction at Diffa (Design Industries Fights Aids) one year.The Dallas chapter gives designers ,artists and celebrities the opportunity to reimagine a denim jacket in whatever form they choose. I happen to love a variation on a theme!
My "capelet" is reversible patchwork leather ,and was the contribution of Nordstroms.To me it was absolutely the best offering that year!
Madonna contributes a jacket every year. She usually slaps a brooch on it and pairs it with an antique bed!
Here I am modeling my dear friend David Nelsons Ball Gown interpretation.

One year I even sang at it! I was Christina in the Lady Marmalade song! We opened for The Weather Girls, it was pretty cool!
Now thats what i call freedom of expression!

Did The Phantom spirit me away?

2008-10-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

Sooooo....where have I been this Samhain Season?I mean the Project Runway finale was over 2 weeks ago ...and I STILL have not weighed in !Honestly ,on the PR front ,first I would like to apologize . A trusted friend pointed out that I wrote a big spoiler post last time with my referencing the Bryant Park shows.I guess I wasn't thinking about those who might not be as obsessed with PR the same way I am. I didn't realize there would be those who would not know all six remaining designers(including Joe, Suede,and Jarell)+ the 3 finalists would be presenting a final show as a way to "fool" the press.I fall on my fashion sword with apologies to you for that spoiler faux paux!
...but.... I just happen to get the final 3 EXACTLY right! Though you might have noticed I DID predict the final 3 from eppy 1 and chose LeeAnne as my personal fave in that same premiere episode! The finale(with beautiful shows from all 3 designers) held no surprises for me and I was THRILLED LeeAnne won!
oh...did you know she has an Etsy shoppe?

So what about me...did Lon Chaney come back from the dead and spirit me away to the bowels of a dank and dirty theatre to give me voice lessons?
As much as I would love to be hiding away from the world and studying the finer points of resonating from my diaphragm ....no...thats not where I have been.

Though once upon a time I did bear a bit of a resemblance to Lon's co-star lovely Mary Philbin.
Especially in this photo by my dear friend Stephen Mosher.Its the wistful and somewhat sad look in the eyes that we share...which brings us too...well...ya see... I have been in a bit of a funk...for...well...most of 2008.I also suffer from feeling guilty for having these feelings.

The mean reds Holly Golightly would call them.It can be a vicious circle. Feel sad for ....selling your house,lack of recognition in your chosen career, ,gaining 10 pounds(ok 15-ish!),not selling your house. The list could go on. Feel guilty for having these feelings,because after all ,you have everything you could possibly want....gorgeous loving faithful hubs,smart , adoring,and clever children(really!),the ability to stay home with them.Your health and the health of your immediate family.
So whats wrong with me?
I love the above "golightly-ish" pic shot by Stephen. I have been lucky enough to have been honored,by being Stephens muse(with and without Betty Page bangs) time and time again.
Thats it!!!! I need a muse!Once upon a time my Blog was my muse. Learning the computer and finding fascinating artist friends from all over the globe.
You were all once my creative partners in crime...and yes I seem to have lost my muse.
Will you help me recapture it?
It may mean going on a bit more of a personal journey with me as I soul search.

I have been able to find a little creative mojo for Halloween.This is my very simple Halloweenie tree.Its a very simple project.
Grab a spindly branch from outside,spray paint it black. Thrift a sleek container for 95 cents,shove spindly branches in sleek thrifted vase, fill branches with thrifted Halloween goodies!

I especially love this crazy vintage witch. I bought her at an estate sale from a lovely older woman who lived down the street. She sold her adorable house and its contents to have it replaced with a ....rather large and perhaps not as well constructed new house,with not as many windows.She passed away shortly after.This witch has a bit of a HooDoo feel to me,with her gigantic gold hoops.She's the type of gal our clever.....
.....Amanda would love. Almost as much as I love her annual Halloween CD. Let me tell you if you are not on her mailing list get ready to feel envious.
This years "Mostly Ghostly"(by The Creatures) features everything from punk rock to Jupiter Jones with a bit of Vincent Price story telling thrown in.Honestly, don't listen to this CD alone in the car on your way home at night.

As I learned that last bit of wisdom from a enjoying the bonus CD of old scary radio shows featuring
Peter Lorre
on my way home from the bowels of another dank and dirty theatre.
Peter Lorre had a bit of a sad and faraway look in his eyes too.

This Just In.... Current Project Runway : Best Season since Season 1 !

2008-09-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

Did I really skip the entire month of August?
Well,honestly,she said in a decidedly arch southern accent! I guess I should also add..."well, I declare".
and here's my declaration!
Project Runway is absolutely AMAZING this season!!! I must admit I was ever so nervous when P.R. had a repeat of season 1's 1st challenge(had the producers run out of original ideas?),but obviously there was absolutely no need to worry!
I must begin by extolling the virtues of the designers.
They are perhaps not as polished as last seasons crop.,but they are full of fresh ideas!
My favorite "Silent Fashion Assassin" has practically ran away with the show,as you can tell from the peeks at her final Bryant Park show.
Origami continues to be her true inspiration,and there has not been a SINGLE garment she produced that I did not love!
Speaking of inspiration. I must admit ,to being quite partial to Astrological images.Throw in Avante Garde and I'm a goner!
Leanne is probably the only designer that got this challenge COMPLETELY right. Definitely inspired by the scorpion and definitely Avante Garde.
This dress? Um...perfection !
Leanne ,will of course be one of the final 3 finalists.Based on the peeks,I think she should win.
The other 2 Finalists? ( I know its pretty obvious).

Kenly:
Though I agreed with the judges criticism,the garment had nothing to do with Aquarius,and was a bit Victor and Rolf.... I felt it was really the ONLY one ,besides Leanne's, that was truly avante garde.
I loved all of her looks leading up to and including her overdue win with this dress. There was something about her design style that struck a familiar note with me. So I google imaged a past favorite designer that I once loved and found the below dress.

Hmm similar print.Victor Costa is a Texas born designer ,who loved over the top silhouettes , Hollywood glamour and big bows,all distilled with a certain 80's aesthetic.
I remember once stating in a junior high "Slam book" that "his bows were my life".
A sample from Kenly's Bryant Park show.
A Victor Costa googled image.
Another sampling,of that final show.
A Victor Costa sample from my own closet!
Not her bestus P.R. work,but I loved the silhouette.
As you can tell from another sampling from my own closet! Hey maybe those Betty Page bangs weren't so bad after all!
...and I ADORE Kenly's personal style!!!!!!!!
Beautiful......
....and beautiful-est!!!!!!! In the end ,it will be between Korto and Leanne for the Project Runway Crown.
If a boy does sneak in to that final 3,Hello Kitty thinks it will be...
....Jarell un-seating the fabulous Kenly.
This skirt has to be one of my all time favorite Project Runway garments,too bad it was paired with that jacket.
You think I am kidding about Hello Kitty and haute couture? Japanese Vogue and...
...Diors John Gallianno ,seem to agree that H.K is indeed a fashion goddess. I think she(H.K) would also wear Jarell.
Hmmm...... I think I have been inspired.
...and what do you all think?

Oh ....A little Show Called Project Runway!

2008-07-23T10:49:00.001-07:00

Since my FAV-OH-RITE television show premiered last Wednesday I felt the need to share my thoughts!
I'll be brief however,because Crooked Halo opens in....
"Seusical the Musical" on Thursday as Amazing Maisie!!....but hey, more on that later....
In the mean time,(though I feel many of the designers 1st efforts would have actually been quite at home as costumes in that Seussian vehicle,both in good AND bad ways), ....please explain to me how this dress was NOT in the top 3? Kenly's dress was QUITE amazing itself.
The producers went back to the absolutely fabulous "Grocery Store Challenge"of season 1,picking raw materials available from a grocery for a limited budget.
I felt Kenly used both innovative materials(lawn chairs and rubber bouncy balls) and good design.The origami type skirt looked as if Rodarte
had been inspired by Dr Seuss artwork (in a good way).Kenly is on my "top 5 fave designers thus far" list.
I felt Terri should have also been in the top 3. Unique materials(dang nab mop heads!) used in a unique way,and good chic design!
I do agree with the judges that Korto (what a cool name!)should have been in the top 3. Gorg design and a brilliant use of produce cut open to reveal a jewel like effect! Yeah,yeah everybody used tablecloths,but no one used them quite as beautifully as she did. Korto also made my top 5 fave list!
Leeanne created this confection. Over the top? You bet ! True to her personal design aesthetic? Yup! I LOVED the peeks at her design portfolio and she also channels her inner lotus blossom to create wearable ,but oh so girlie, origami. Based on her portfolio,her 1st design and her self dubbing as"the silent fashion assassin". She also makes my top 5 ,AND gets the dubious honor of my current personal fave!
I thought Jennifer's "Holly meets Dali" napkin dress was quite sweet,I am curious to see more!
Paper cocktail umbrellas as a design element? I LOVE it!!!!!!!!!!!
So Jerrell's dress was my guilty pleasure favorite! Another sassy Seussical look! His portfolio gave us no hint whatsoever that he would produce a look that even....
Hello Kitty would love!!! Honestly, I am not being negative here,I kinda loved it!It had great proportions and wonderful whimsy! I can't wait to see what he will produce next! If the producers give us another wedding dress challenge....
...perhaps we can expect something like this random googled image of an HK wedding gown!Admit it... you know you think that gown is cute!
To round out my top five fave. I gotta give it up to Daniel. Not only did I adore that card dress from his portfolio,but he most definitely gave an interesting and innovative offering to the runway(plus ,I like the way he dresses!)!
As my dear Austin Scarlet said,yep..."hideous!"....but again I am oh so curious as to what this rather bizarre lad will produce next!
Who rounds out my top 5....okay,so I really thought this dress was a miss,certainly a surprise win in my eyes!.....but I loved the peek at her portfolio and actually thought I might be sweating out her survival in the bottom 3. The skirt was adorable and of course the use of spirals as hook and eye ,amazing(and yet another possible Seussical look)!Based solely on her portfolio peek,she rounds out my personal top 5.
What I found interesting was that the designers seemed positively gob smacked by the challenge. Had they truly NOT performed the grocery store challenge hundreds of times in their own minds while on their own shopping junkets?
What would you pick dear readers?....and who is your current fave?
I have thought of what I might use in this particular challenge many times,and I always go back to Yellow rubber gloves as my basic and oh so simple tube dress fabric,beaded with....
JELLY BELLIES!!!!!!!!

An Old School Thriftventure,Don Juans Romantic Mexican Food...and a bit of an update!

2008-06-30T11:52:00.000-07:00

Lets kick it old school style with a Thriftventure!Its been a bit hectic around the Pagoda (have you noticed my EXTREME lack of posting?),so it was quite surprising ,wonderful and relaxing to find myself alone with time on my hands to go thrifting...ALONE!I began my journey after dropping off the wee petal to stay the night at Grandmas house.I bee-lined it to my ALLTIME favo-rite thrift store T-Towne.As usual it did not dissapoint !Embroidered linens ,each 69 cents and less!A clever Easter bunny for 1.49,and these 2 gorgeous figurines for 2.98 each!!! They will be thank you prezzies for my mommy! She loves these pretty pastel things!
When I finished at the thriftstores ,I found it was 5:30,rush hour! I decided to take a detour back home and stay off the highway for a bit.I cut through a town called Grand Prairie,I had not been to this town in quite a while.I headed through the main street(oddly called Main Street) on my way back to Dallas.
I knew the way quite well because in my college days I loved poking around this kitschy area . This was also "historic" downtown Grand Prairie. I use quotation marks because when I think of historic ,I think of charming architecture that once housed diners and 5and dimes.Well this town was once a giant prairie and nary a landmark still exists.....but........what still stands is Don Juans Romantic Mexican Food
Open in 1966,here the original sign still hangs!
You walk in and are immediately charmed by the original decor.
...and your sense of smell is immediately assaulted as the scent of boiling taco meat almost knocks you over!
In my college days muy philosophizing was spent in this dining room....but only if I did not have rehearsal in the evening,because I ABSOLUTELY refused to smell of burritos!
A classic JDP moment of horror occurred when ,after feasting on burritos,my girlfreind and I decided to shop in one of the fun little whole in the wall establishments surrounding Don Juan's. I walked in and the shop lady rather loudly sniffed the air and declared...(read with broad Texas accent)"You smell like a big fat juicy hamburger,makes me hungry".I still shudder at the thought of the very idea of the smell wafting off of me igniting someones appetite.
I am actually not a burrito fan,but Don Juan's burritos are absolute nirvana,and be warned one is more than enough!As I was sitting and indulging and getting good and smelly in that nostalgic dining room,I noticed a new thrift store,right across the street!Oh ,and this one looked good and junky!!!!!!!
My haul from said junky thrift store! It was all Asian themed! Cherry blossom-ish paint by number mini painting ,for 95 cents.Gorgeous kimono girl for 2.95,jewelry box for 1.95,2 kochina dolls for 95 each,and........
...this amazing vintage paper lantern for 95 cents!I always get into strange thrift price patterns(this time everything ended with 95...) anyone else find that happens to them?
...but what shall I do with all these Asian themed goodies?
In a new house I might have a special room all to myself to let rip with whatever whimsy and theme I had a passing fancy for.
For the present time there is no new house.3 amazing offers on our house and all 3 fell through for random reasons having nothing to do with our house.Crazy times.So ,what does the future hold?
There is a painting that hangs on our bedroom wall. It is from Thailand and very old (perhaps 100 years,the story goes it was already quite old when it was framed in the fifties). It depicts a male and female character(please click to enlarge). You will note the male has a most determined look to his handsome square jaw(hey!!!my hubs is handsome with a square jaw!)He is holding on tight to his woman and marching forward into an unknown space. The woman (who obviously has had 2 kids that she breast fed,poor dear, has to hold her own bosoms up)in turn will not let go of her beautiful home.
Is it time for me to let go?
My mind travels back in time to a couple of Christmases before I was married.My husband,then my boyfriend gave me this framed Ty Wilson print.I think it is safe to admit here almost seventeen years later,at that time in our lives ,I wanted more from the relationship than he did. There was something in this print that struck a cord with me.Beyond the obvious physical resemblance we both shared with the 2 drawn figures(he,square jaw/me,massive curls),it was their actions that intrigued me.Do you see how her affection is completely present and "in his face" shall we say?Well yeah,that was definitely me.
...but look whats behind his back.Dozens of beautiful roses . It was as though he had a secret that even he did not yet know ,about the magic he was going to bring into my life!
Does the art work we choose for our home subliminally give ourselves away?
You haven't seen me around lately because I haven't been myself. I like to blog when I am joyous and creating. Lately that has not been me.I do not know whether we will move or stay put. That uncertainty has most definitely been the most present factor in my life,and yet there is so much more magic to come for my little family,that I cannot yet see!With this hopeful thought I will try to be more present at least in Bloglandia!

The Swashbuckler Soiree

2008-05-03T07:23:00.000-07:00

Ahoy to all my long lost Blogpanions! Did you think I would not set sail with ye?
Donna of The Ribboned Crown Is hosting a grand party today ,and I simply could not resist joining in.
Have I been out of the bloggy loop lately?
Have I been slaving and organizing my house for sale ?
Did my fabulous house create a bidding war over its beautiful self?
Is there an inspector inspecting it as we speak?
You bet your sweet Pirates Booty ,the answer is yes to all questions!
Thus I decided a game of Fantasy Google Image Fashion Stylist was needed!

To attend a soiree one needs the perfect dress!I'm sure the Texas Fashion Collection,won't mind if borrow This Balenciaga gown from 1966.
For added Pirate Punk Punch how about this necklace from Zarobi Designs ?
I couldn't decide between these 2 wonderfully intricate bags from The Victorian Trading Company.
...but the Moulin Rouge hose (also from The Victorian Trading Company were an easy pick.
...and a Pirate Queen MUST have a pair of swashbuckling boots!This pair designed by Heatherette were the perfect choice from Irregular Choice.
I will need a sword,oh wait.....that could be messy. What if I get into a scuffle and get blood all over my borrowed Balenciaga?
This poison ring from Solange Azugury Partridgewill be much neater and MUCH more subtle.
Here I am ready to give all for my Pirate Prince!
Poor wandering one. I saved him.
He thinks I only have eyes for him(ack!!! there I am again with theBettie Page bangs!). Fooled poor Fredrik again.
...but who could resist Kevin Kline as the Pirate King.

Tales From Marfa and Beyond!

2008-04-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

Blogger Time Sucker Warning: Level Orange
Alrighty then.... sooo I have broken my own slacker blogger record by posting a mere 1 times last month. Busy,busy,busy here at the Pagoda. We continue to look for a new home where we can all be who we wish to be. I am hoping for a clear decision on this soon. Until that time I am a bit discombobulated.
How about a recap of our road trip?
We generally fly on our fam trips,so it was quite refreshing to pack up all our cares and woe and drive!
We live in North Texas and drove out to West Texas. We stopped on the way at a B&B in Glenrose, Texas. It was a beautiful old farm house that we had all to ourselves!
You were able to build a bonfire in the backyard,and we roasted marshmallows. I prefer mine nicely blackened ,carcinogens be damned!My hubs and I found it rather romantic to shiver and freeze in the farm house,and we had a good giggle when we found the heater the next morning!
The main attraction in Glenrose is Dinosaur Valley !
Crooked Halo keeping the Dinosaur EXACTLY where I suspect she will keep all the men in her life!
The 3 most important people in my life standing in a track where the dinosaurs once roamed!I stayed behind on this hike because my cowboy boots were too slippery!
Whilst the hubs and C.H. wrangled lunch up,the wee petal and I took in the cheesy delicious-ness of a kitschy Dinosaur statue display park.
Her best T-Rex imitation(note the face!)!
Our personal faves the Chicken Dinosaurs !
Those who complain that Texas is not beautiful country ,have not seen West Texas.
Can you say sleepy little town?
We stayed at The Hotel Paisano where the cast and crew of Giant stayed.
Not to worry I kept my eyes to the ground ,just in case Liz had lost a bauble or two.
Driving into town in the dark of night,I saw an eerie group of black creatures. Turns out they were these boviney rodent nocturnal things called Javelinas. I was fascinated. They instantly became my new favorite animal!I always try to find a X-mas orny to commemorate our trip. I lucked out and found a Javelina gingerbread cookie cutter! It will have the added bonus oflooking sleek and minimalist on the tree.
Walking to breakfast the next morning I spied one in a shop window. The shop window displays in Marfa were quite unexpected and arty.
Even the yards were arty. Here a giant donkey pulling a wagon for my collection!
This was its yard art buddy.
That night we ate at Jetts Grill . Guess which NON-South Beach en tree I chose(click to enlarge any image).a hint: Embracing my southern roots was well worth the miss step!
The next day we antiqued a bit. Another AMAZING giant donkey. I was in love!!! Alas ,it was not for sale!
On our way to McDonald Observatory,we saw a wild brush fire that shut down the highway for a bit.
Here we are at one of the highest elevations in Texas,the observatory is in the distance!
That night we attended the Star Party. It was absolutely one of te highlights of the trip. We sat(and froze,can you tell?)in a gorgeous amphitheatre
The design of the theatre was based on an ancient Greek design,and housed such an impressive presentation. It was an Astronomy lesson I shall never forget! The presenter had a handy dandy super nova laser pointer that looked as if his fingers touched the stars!
among the lessons learned ,finding Polaris ,the one trustworthy star. Otherwise known as my husband.Random JDP trivia: I inscribed my hubs wedding ring with "You are Polaris",thats a line from something...I forget just what.
....and last but not least ,what to my wandering eyes should appear....but this sign(please click and enlarge).A diggety dang nab delici-osity of a thrift store RIGHT NEXT DOOR to our hotel.
Their widows also held a delightful and bizarrely whimsical display for my viewing pleasure(oh yes, I did feel it was just for me)!
Remember this was right befor Easter,so the window had a bit of a seasonal theme.The view from looking into the rabbit hole!
Little girl and her lamby.
For a nominal fee she had set up her own version of an Etsy shop.
DIY mobile kits!
...um...and a candelabra.
This is what I got. A taupe-y beige lace and silk dress for 10 bux. What do ya think? Jean jacket, pearls, and cowboy boots to accessorize?
For 3 bux,an old lady polyester scenery shirt. I think just the jeans and boots for this.
For 2 bux ,a little vintage homemade shell in my favorite fall tones.
...and last for one buckeroo,this strawberry fruit salad smock. It will be perfection over a Kowalski undershirt and jeans.
The whole motivating force to go to Marfa was to check out the Chinati Foundation started by modern art champion and artist himself Donald Judd(ironically Mr Judds children AND Cliff May was featured in the March issue of Mens Vogue). We waited all week for their 1st tour,which as the sign denotes begins promptly at 10:00. No one was there. This was actually typical for our week,NOTHING was open practically(oh and I'm talkin' the where do ya eat? kinda Not open.). This nothin'(or hardly nothin') to do schedule was actually just what the Doctor ordered!
I shall try to come back soon to bloggy world in spite of a broken camera.