Often I have things I’d like to share with you all, but they don’t necessarily constitute a whole blog post by themselves. I’ve always been more of a “meaty” blogger, meaning I prefer my posts to be more in depth then a simple image and a few sentences, but some topics don’t require that much explanation. Or maybe it’s a random thought that isn’t relative to design what I know most of you come here for. Let’s call this Bullet Points.
Mark Cunningham via One Kings Lane
⋅TRADITIONALISM: I’ve been meaning to write a post about this for about a year now, but sometimes you just don’t get around to things. I’ve talked about it several times on the blog before, but trends are one of my absolute favorite things to study. I used to do it with fashion and now I do it with design. Trendy can be a negative term for me because it comes with the idea that everyone is doing it and it will someday be a thing of the past but I love to find those things that are just peeking their head out from behind the curtain. I am a traditionalist, and I think that’s pretty apparent in my interiors, but traditionalism is trending. It’s been a slow creep, starting with the popularity of Downton Abbey, catapulted further forward with the musical Hamilton, and now even Emily Henderson the queen of Midcentury Modern is moving into a tudor home and going all traditional in her design. Whether it’s simple and country or detailed and stately, there’s something for everyone when you look toward classic design.
⋅STRANGER THINGS: Have you seen this show on Netflix? I’m not usually one to hop on the TV bandwagon, but I started watching last month and finished it in a day and a half. Sci-fi isn’t anything I’m typically interested in, but this show captivated me. As strange as the subject matter was, the show felt very nostalgic. It takes place in the 80’s, and it’s not trying to push any envelopes or agendas within the plot…maybe that’s what felt so refreshing about it. If you’ve seen it, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
⋅TAXIDERMY: Speaking of trends AND strange things, I’ve been weirdly interested in something most people find pretty creepy. I’ve always associated taxidermy with proud hunters and people who enjoy rustic decor not my thing. But a few years back I remember seeing Ryan Korban’s apartment in Domino and being blown away by the animals he had. They were breathtaking. Then this summer I took Milly to the old soda shop in town that also sells secondhand things. There are a lot of “interesting” items, but what totally caught my eye was a stuffed zebra head hanging amongst the clutter. The retired man running the shop said it was his wife’s, that zebras are her favorite, and it’s not for sale. I hate when stores display items that aren’t for sale! I can’t get that thing out of my head and have been back for root beer floats more than I normally would just to admire him.
A few months ago I came across Fine Taxidermy and then I was really hooked. This is not your uncle’s prize-winning bass, this stuff is incredible…
Unlike the local taxidermist, stuffing things hunters have killed, these men are bringing new life to animals that were usually found after they had died. The colors and attention to detail are incredible, and whether you’re into it or not, it’s hard not to acknowledge their talent and artistry.
⋅BACK TO SCHOOL COOL: This summer we kept extra-curiccular activities kind of low to enjoy more time with family and friends. School has started back up and while we had things several nights a week last year, we intentionally signed the kids up for activities that didn’t take place on week nights. Xander’s trying soccer but the practicing and games both happen on Saturday mornings, and Milly’s gymnastics is on a weekday. They’ll have church on Wednesday nights soon, but I have to say, this not rushing around after school has felt amazing! I can tell a difference in my own attitude, and Xander seems so much happier to have time to come home and relax, play, do his reading when he’s ready. I know it won’t be this way forever, but I’m going to enjoy it while we can. I’ve read a lot about kids who aren’t over scheduled being happier adults, and though I don’t think you can lump all kids into that ideology, I do think it’s be great for us. Do you try to limit your evening activities?
⋅McMANSIONS: I stumbled across this tumbler and spent way too much time laughing. I shared it on Facebook if you follow along there. I had this thought so many times when we were looking at houses ourselves…”why can’t they just make a rectangular room with symmetrical features?!” Oftentimes “special features” and details in homes are just builders covering up mistakes or trying to save a buck. Just because you’re spending a lot on a home doesn’t mean it’s quality. Do you live in an area with McMansions?
⋅BABY: It’s hard to believe, but I’m about 10 weeks out from having another human to take care of. Yikes! Milly and I spent the beginning of the week going through every single baby item, article of clothing, toy we have in storage. We divided it up between all of the nephews I have and organizing the girl things (there are four nephews younger to pass things to but no little girls). I now have 3 boxes ready to go: one gender neutral box, one girl box, and one boy box. When the baby is born I’ll open up two and sell everything in the other box. There is something to be said about preparing for your last baby and knowing you will get some of your storage space back. More room to hoard chairs and lamps!
I thought I had everything I needed for this little one, but I’m realizing there are so many new and wonderful things I should probably get beforehand. The Rock N Play was my favorite thing with Milly and now it rocks on its own…wha?!? Newer moms, what are your must have products? And any favorite new clothing or blanket lines out there? I’m totally into these moses baskets with the stand, and the changing basket is on my list of wants for this new babe.
Diane says
You’re quite the sharpshooter! Just about every bullet item hit the bulls eye for me. I’m from the KC area too. Have you Ben the the Oracle Fine Curiosities? So interesting! Your taxedermy point made me think of it. And your kids would probably think it was the coolest field trip ever.
themakerista@gmail.com says
No, sounds like I need a trip! I’m definitely adding that to my list of things to do sooner than later, thanks for the tip, Diane, and really glad to hear you liked this – I think I’ll start incorporating it more often!
Tara says
Never commented but wanted to share that I love your blog…I recently found it through pinterest and love your style. As for baby items, I had my third just over a year ago and what I didn’t have with the first two that was a lifesaver for me was a product called “covergoods” its a nursing cover but also can be used as a carseat cover when your in public, shopping cart cover, and scarf. lets just say I no longer felt strange nursing in public but found even others that didnt nurse absolutely loved it. and my tried and true baby product that I absolutely love are the Aden and Anais Burby bibs…burp clothes when they are tiny and then bibs later on..I’m sure you already have them but thought I would mention. Can you tell I like things that serve multiple purposes 😉 Congratulations on your little arrival!
themakerista@gmail.com says
Tara,
Thanks so much for commenting and for reading! I really appreciate it. And I’ll have to look into the cover goods. I am definitely a big fan of nursing covers and used mine a ton…something multipurpose is always a bonus! Yes, I love those little burp cloths and how they fit around your shoulder, so much easier! Have a great rest of the week!
Sarah says
I stumbled upon that McMansion tumblr recently, too. So hilarious, informative, and… sad, really. I always compare the really terrible ones to a doll that’s had all of its limbs popped off and replaced in the wrong socket. Haha yikes.
Thanks for sharing Fine Taxidermy! I’m always drawn to the more curious and oddball. It’s fantastic that they can create such (in their case, gorgeously artistic) pieces in a sustainable way. I love that! Have you been to Oracle in the Crossroads?
I always appreciate your design insight, Gwen! Keep up the great work. 🙂
themakerista@gmail.com says
It sounds like somewhere I need to check out, thanks for mentioning it and being as into the “weird” stuff as I am. 😉
Norma | The House that Will says
That McMansion thing is hilarious! ?
themakerista@gmail.com says
Right? I couldn’t stop reading and laughing!
Sr168 says
Those Moses baskets are lovely – I had the ‘normal’, plain ones for my children and they are so very convenient, but the array of colours available and the stepped head end are beautiful. I’m not so sure about a basket introduced into the changing area though – the clean up required for when things go wrong (!!) as they occasionally will doesn’t bear thinking about!
I love the modern taxidermy – found rather than shot is absolutely the only way to go.
themakerista@gmail.com says
Ha, I didn’t think about that Sally! You’re probably right about it not always being easy cleanup, but they’re just so pretty…I think I might get over that. 🙂 And yes, I love how they don’t kill anything or take from hunters.
Andrea Shultice says
I loved my Moses basket. Henry slept in it for the first 6 weeks or so until he outgrew it! Takes up so much less room than a pack-n-play in our room, and was just a sweet and simple place for him to sleep nearby. I also have a Mamaroo, which I never would have bought for myself but my mom insisted on getting it for us because of all the good things she heard. And we love it! Our baby is not very colicky, but he sure loves his Mamaroo time, and it’s super helpful for me to have a safe + entertaining place for him to hang out while I get ready or do some chores. 🙂
themakerista@gmail.com says
I’ve heard really great things about the Mamaroo! Both of our first kids had reflux issues, so swings and rockers that allowed them to sleep at an angle were super important. Still not sure what route I’ll go with that this time, but thanks for your thoughts!
TNic says
Are you familiar with Sibella Court’s design and style? Your nod to taxidermy kind of reminded me of her style. It is very different from yours, and from mine for that matter, but she is an absolutely fearless maximalist and loves nature, birds, taxidermy, and setting up cabinets of (her own) curiosities. I like to keep up with things that are different from my own style, but which strike a chord for some reason and she is awesome! My favorite books of hers are Gypsy, Etcetera and The Stylist’s Guide to New York (fun to look at even if you aren’t going shopping in New York City soon!) In my area, if you don’t live in a McMansion you aren’t really living…lol. And no, I don’t live in a McMansion! 🙂
TNic says
By the way, Sibella Court is big big on making your home personal by filling it up with things you love to look at.
themakerista@gmail.com says
Ha! Isn’t it funny how some areas are just full of them? I have heard of her, I even have her book Gypsy, but haven’t really looked at her blog so thanks for sharing that!
Holly says
Gwen, Check out artist Anna Church I just discovered her & she has amazing prints with Zebras you might enjoy. Also agree that Stranger things was a great series, I also am not into Sci Fi & I couldn’t stop watching. We also just finished BroadChurch on Netflix in 2 days, it was intense! Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy.
themakerista@gmail.com says
Oh, I love her work, thanks for sharing! I haven’t watched BroadChurch, I’ll have to add it to my list!
Melkorka says
the McMansion blog made my day! I will be so happy when these eyesores are officially dated and people stop building them – the roof lines alone confound me. Thanks for the share! Oh and two random baby items I found helpful when I had my baby 17 months ago – Babysoy footed pants (so you don’t need socks), & Milk and Honey down sleep sac (for when you are done with swaddling)- it’s pricey but it is made in the USA and you won’t have to replace every 6 months.
themakerista@gmail.com says
Thanks so much for the item recommendations and glad you liked the McMansion blog! 😉
Elegant Inspired Living says
Great post. If you like taxidermy check out Christopher Marley’s work. It presents exotic bugs and beetles in amazing ways!
themakerista@gmail.com says
Ooh, amazing! Thank you for sharing, I really love his work and the snakes are super cool!
Jen Spadaro says
We just started wart hung stranger things. It’s very good, but my husband had a fantasy football draft, so we couldn’t watch more. We also watched the mini series the night of on HBO and that was very good. I’m a little afraid of trendy things too. I like more fam house modern, but I try to be really careful that I’m not just jumping on the bandwagon with everyone else. I’m always asking myself do I really love this? I totally agree with the idea of keeping kids more unscheduled. We homeschool, so it’s a bit different. But it’s just the idea that even when we are filling our life with good things it doesn’t always add up to good. And when we are busy I feel like the thing that always gets pushed aside is the Lord. We don’t get our time to read our bible and do devotionals, we are too busy to help out a friend in need or make a meal for someone. So I try to stay less busy and we schedule our family the same. We just had our third baby in January. I’m all about the baby wraps. I have a moby and solly. The solly is just a thinner material. Better for hot weather. But it’s great to be able to have baby close and happy and be hands on with the other 2. Other than that I didn’t get too much new stuff, I actually probably got rid of some of the kid/baby stuff.
themakerista@gmail.com says
That’s funny, I’ve been getting rid of a lot of stuff too! Thanks for sharing, and you’re totally right. It’s so hard to just be still and spend time in God’s word. It’s definitely countercultural to take that time, but so necessary!
Julia@Cuckoo4Design says
YES, Stranger Things is amazing!
Kelsey says
Love this post! Our family is relocating from the Dallas TX area to Charleston SC this winter! Were building a home that is a traditional Low country home with the wide porches. We are SO excited about the different style and outdoor living opportunities. All the houses in our area are brick and boring and look the same! Traditional is a style I’ve never really paid much attention to…always tended toward vintage modern styles…but I seriously can’t wait for a change of pace! Also on the baby front, with our third baby we bought TWO of the Aiden And Anais dream blankets. I can’t stress this enough! BUY TWO! If you lose one…or your kiddo develops a preference to a specific style and then it gets discontinued you will be so sad and frantic. We bought two of the same blanket but in a slightly different pattern and he sleeps with both every night. If one got lost it wouldn’t be a huge dramatic deal. So excited for your new little one! And can’t wait to see what you do with his/her room! 🙂
themakerista@gmail.com says
That’s really smart and congrats on the new home! Sounds so beautiful!
Elegant Inspired Living says
I thought of you and recalled a post on horns from last winter. Thought you might like it. http://elegantinspiredliving.com/2016/02/02/horns/ Let me know what you think.