Elli O.

Desired Things

2012-01-30T14:50:00.000+01:00

I've already wrote about the impact this poem had in my life.

I love my copy, I got it on a rainy day in London, on a lovely trip we did with my father.

I thought about having this word around the house, as a reminder of how important is to know the things we want. Sometimes I forget that I'm a proud an lucky mother to an amazing healthy and happy boy. I've always wanted to be a mother, since I can remember that was my first priority, to go through the incredible journey of creating a little baby. So I made this little installation to keep focus, and realize that I've accomplished one of my most important dreams.

The sign with the word desiderata was a gift from my dear friend Ivette. She asked her brother Felipe to make it on his workshop. Now I have your art in one of my walls, this adds so much to the project, your time, a photo from a rainy day and love. Thanks guys, you are amazing.

La Petite Galerie

2012-01-24T12:06:00.000+01:00

My boy is turning six this month. Every year we make a little party at his school. We celebrate with other kids, this way the mom's get a little less "crazy" with all the organizing and decorating. I'm always in charge of this last part, since I already had the kid's illustrations (from last year's party), I decided to make a "Petite Galerie" theme.

An important factor was budget, always this word, but seriously it doesn't has to be expensive to be fun. I used some normal A4 paper and I made a design using this awesome frames from outside the line. I printed a dotted pattern on the back, added a little crayon (from a chinese shop) and sealed with a little transparent label. To make it a theme I called my local printer and ordered A3's that we used as place mats.

I suggested we had donuts instead of a cake (since they are six kids, and every one wanted to blow their own candle). They agreed and I went for some at a local store.

The kids liked it very much, in every invite there was one empty frame, so they could draw their own portrait. We had lots of sugar and fun. And on a budget!.

Thanks to all the moms on the organizing committee.

Photography & Artwork: Elli O.

A Little Princess

2012-01-16T10:35:00.002+01:00

This year started with lots of new projects and beautiful news, our dear friends Ainara & Iñigo are going to be parents of a lovely girl!. The little princess is going to be named Nerea. We celebrated with a dinner party at Marie's where her husband, Jonan, cooked for us a delicious meal (you are awesome hosts, thank you!).

I was in charge of all the decorations, here's a list of some of the things that made a cute ambient for our dinner honoring baby Nerea:

1. Marie's gorgeous table cloth, made by her sister.
2. Pink and white pom-poms, made of tissue paper.
3. Signs on card holders.
4. A "Tree of life" made with an artificial plant and some words attached to the leaves with tiny wood clips.
5. Bear moneybox for little notes with messages for Nerea.

Photography: Elli O.

Best wishes...

2011-12-30T11:26:00.000+01:00

We are so lucky, we've been chosen to be the audience of so beautiful acts. The sunrise, the aurora borealis, the music, the lightnings, the snow, the wind, the colors…

I wish you all a beautiful and spectacular new act in this gorgeous play called life.

Here's a good song to welcome a year. Gathering Stories by Jónsi from the movie We Bought A Zoo.

"Our kid zigs.

 Opens doors

 Over the doors 

I am alive"…

Jónsi

Funny Lady

2011-12-23T11:05:00.000+01:00

Loving Kristen Wiig's photo session for this month's cover of Paper Magazine. This girl had me at hello, it's not just about Bridesmaids (that she co-wrote and started), it's her style, her talent (she acts, she writes, she sings!).

Above all, what I admire is her ability to make us laugh, I mean, yesterday I was feeling kind of down, I watched this skit and laughed so hard that I almost cried. We need to laugh more, is healthy.

Tank top by ADAM Basics, skirt and shoes by Marc Jacobs

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JAKE CHESSUM
STYLED BY MARTHA VIOLANTE

Little Bird Whispers In My Ear...

2011-12-21T14:50:00.000+01:00

This year has been about messages, we've had a pretty hectic one, lots of changes. But I guess that everything has happened in order to give us the courage to take those steps that could get us into a happier life, accept challenges, make decisions and actually do things.

Top 5 messages taken from this year events:

1. You need to give love to receive love.
2. Budget is not a bad word.
3. Give time and you'll get happiness back.
4. Even in loss we find strength.
5. You are beautiful.

I love words, so I take some and save them for a rainy day. I love to dress them with nice typography, print or e-mail them. I'd like to believe that for every message there's a little bird that whispers in my ear, even if there are bad news.

Here are some of the words for this season, you can download them here if you like.

I'm looking forward to this new year, hopefully we'll get to grow and learn as much as we did this one. I hope you have a very happy celebration with your family and friends.

Photography: Elli O.
Art: Elli O.

After Tattoo

2011-12-13T10:11:00.000+01:00

So in love with this photo shoot of Noomi Rapace for December's issue of BlackBook magazine. Noomi has been recognized internationally because of her incredible portray of the female character of last decade, Lisbeth Salander, in the Millenium trilogy.

After that transformtaion, which I found compelling, she now has moved on. She looks so chic and stylish, I'm looking forward to see more of her work.

Photography: Yu Tsai
Styling: Brad Goreski

WURM It Up

2011-12-12T09:59:00.000+01:00

I'm not only in love with this app, but so thankful too. Anna O. alias @tirelessweaver created a beautiful and awesome platform that enables anyone to be an "artist", sort of say.

Lover of patterns, as she declares, made available brushes and editable settings that give endless possibilities. I'm still learning to use it, but have already made like 20 canvas.

The other thing I like is that it randomly picks the brush, canvas background, colors and transparency, so every tap it's a new adventure (you can edit the settings every time you like). Here are some images of my "art", I did most of them during our road trip (of almost 11 hours).

Via Featured by cg.
Art: Elli O. on WURM App

Look Up

2011-12-09T16:07:00.001+01:00

And enjoy the view. I'm amazed by the beautiful colors in the sky, this place is a little remote, so we get to see lots of open spaces. Every day we have different tones and shades. I love it. Here are some images of what I have seen...

Photos: Elli O.

Here Comes the Sun

2011-12-07T18:18:00.001+01:00

We scheduled a week off to come to Almería. Since we arrived we've had beautiful and sunny days. We make pancakes in the morning and spend the day having long walks or visiting the towns nearby.

Time is the most precious thing we take from this trips, the amount we spend together, laughing, holding hands, kissing.

We cook every day together in the kitchen, Ander keeps running and playing with his cousin. It's lovely.

Things I love so far:
1. The Sun.
2. Kids running on their way to the swimming pool.
3. Having a cup of tea while I watch the sunset from my balcony.
4. Kids pretending they are zombies.
5. The beautiful patterns everywhere.
6. Work a little outside with a cool breeze.

We drive all those long hours, … Is to see this two have fun in their little adventure. Ander and our niece are having a blast!.

Here's the song of this trip. The Beatles - Here Comes The Sun

Photos: Elli O.

There's Something About Michelle

2011-12-02T09:42:00.001+01:00

That captivates an audience. At only 31 she's already a proclaimed actress. What I like the most of her is her focus and determination into conveying complex emotions through the characters she plays.

I've been waiting for December's issue of ELLE Magazine UK for a while. Since I saw the behind the scenes I was eager to see the photos and read the article. I've finally got the digital issue (¿How amazing is that it's available for iPhone too?). I loved the article by Jenny Dickinson, I read it over and over before I go to sleep.

Michelle has been featured in every interview and magazine because of her critically acclaimed portray of the one and only Marilyn Monroe in My Week With Marilyn.

I admire this girl's style, professionalism and above all, her dedication as a Mom without compromising her passion for her work.

Article: Jenny Dickinson
Photography: Alexei Hay
Fashion: Leith Clark
Artwork: Lisa Rahman

Wedding Day

2011-11-28T09:39:00.000+01:00

Love and distance. I know that story.

My beloved friend Val got married on the 11th, I couldn't make it, I already knew that but still I was sad. But not for long, she posted a couple of photos (just a preview of her photo session) and I could see not only happiness but a sweet mood.
They where shot in local places, streets of town (they wed in Puerto Vallarta). They are very casual but unique. Just like them.

Love and distance... Val has to move as I did, she and I have some similar stories. I love you my sweet angel.

Photography: Paulina Ulloa
Dress: Cymbeline

Here's a little song I wish I had danced at my wedding, when I heard it I could relate to the story, as when we get lost we usually find ourselves. This happened to both husband and me, he found me across the ocean, I found myself in this journey. Love and distance...

Find Yourself by Brad Paisley.

Rise & Shine

2011-11-24T00:00:00.000+01:00

Happy days start with happy stomachs. I remember when I was younger I used to skip breakfast a lot. My father always insisted that I had to change that.

Now I can't start my day without it. Even though I have an early start, and do a couple of chores in-between, I still get to have a nice breakfast every day. For the week I make it simple, in weekends we do cook something more elaborate and fun.

Here's how I do it:
1. Make a pot of coffee for husband (while he still in the shower).
2. Wash some berries and put them in a bowl of cereal and skimmed milk.
3. Go wake up kid.
4. Put a slice of bread to toast. In the meantime start eating cereal.
5. Go and help Ander get dressed, wash face & teeth.
6. Go back to kitchen and eat toast with a little cream cheese and a small glass of orange juice. While doing that I put some water to boil.
7. Make Ander's breakfast and serve on the dining room, he's already waiting. Put the water in my cup with a tea bag already in.
8. Get coats, shoes, Ander's backpack, we're almost ready. ¡Tea is ready!. A couple of sips and away we go!

Breakfast is like the beginning of our routine, but a very fun one, having one bathroom and a tiny kitchen makes it a little tricky as we bump into each other all the time. As we go in and out of rooms, we share kisses and hugs, eat in-between and run. I love it!

¡Happy morning!

Photos: Elli O.

Thirty-Six

2011-11-15T13:21:00.000+01:00

Photos: Elli O.

Last week I had a beautiful birthday. I spent the morning in the city and had a birthday coffee at Katy's. When I got back I dressed up for my date with Ander, who "invited" me to dine at McDonald's.

My family called and sang "Las Mañanitas" as every year. I Had cupcakes with husband and son. Then I changed into a beautiful dress, put on pink lipstick and went out for some drinks with my girls.

I can say that I feel very comfortable in my own skin now. Even though times are hard, I'm pretty lucky to have lovely people around me. I'm happy.

Top 5 of my birthday:
1. Tiny arms around me (son's hugs).
2. Pink cupcakes and macaroons from here.
3. This song.
4. Blowing candles with son & husband.
5. Drinks with my girls.

Sister Love

2011-11-13T20:53:00.001+01:00

It's unique, your sisters are always there, they know you, they feel you. I miss mine every day, so much it hurts.

This two have been one of my favorite duo, they are both very stylish. This pictures for December's edition of W Magazine are stunning.

Article by Lynn Hirschberg
Photographs by Mario Sorrenti
Styled by Lori Goldstein

Chiles de Gernika

2011-11-10T18:30:00.000+01:00

Foto: Elli O.

El sábado pasado tuvimos el placer de comer en una auténtica taquería mexicana.

Una tarde gris y lluviosa, se convirtió en una de las más agradables de los últimos años. Mikel y Luis, de Gernika y Monterrey respectivamente, fueron los anfitriones. Juntos crearon hace cuatro años la taquería mexicana Txokomex. Desde que nos "asomamos" a la cocina, notamos el exquisito olor de los guisos.

Mikel nos llevó a la Kantina, que está justo en frente, nos sentamos en la barra y disfrutamos de la conversación mientras nos preaparaba las bebidas. Yo pedí una michelada y Josu una cerveza Negra Modelo. Pedimos de todo un poco, Luis es el encargado de la cocina, con lo que cada plato tiene el sazón de México.

El ambiente es muy ameno, hay música mexicana y buena comida. Es una auténtica taquería, con guisos mexicanos y buenas "botanas" (aperitivos). Además las salsas las preparan con auténticos chiles mexicanos, cultivados en Gernika. Desde los ingredientes se puede apreciar la mezcla de culturas y sabores.

Muchas gracias, Mikel y Luis, por una tarde entrañable.

Diseño: Elli O.

Entre taco y taco pudimos hablar con Eugenio y Dani, quienes han formado ASIME, una asociación que promociona la integración entre las culturas de Euskadi y México. Una de las actividades que tienen actualmente es un altar de muertos.

En México se celebra el "Día de Muertos" el 2 de Noviembre; la fiesta se destaca por los altares, en los que cada persona monta una estructura con fotografías, velas, papeles de colores, flor de cempasúchil y comida (la que "el difunto" disfrutaba más en vida). Como muchas cosas en México, es una fiesta que llena de color un evento "triste".

El Altar lo ha montado Jaime Yacaman, originario de Toluca, y estará en exhibición hasta el domingo 13 de Noviembre en la calle Barrenkale No. 24 (al lado de la "takeria").

Sophisticated in the dark

2011-11-03T22:17:00.001+01:00

Still in her "Lisbeth Salander" look, Rooney Mara is exquisite in this photos for November's edition of Vogue US. Beautiful. Here's a behind the scenes.

I really liked the article by Jonathan Van Mete.

Photographed by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott
Hair: Paul Hanlon
Makeup: Charlotte Tilbury

Visual treat

2011-11-03T22:17:00.000+01:00

I just can't stop talking about this movie. With so much going on in life: the economic crisis, responsibilities toward the education of our boy and our ability to change things. Everything seems too deep sometimes.

To actually enjoy and take something of art seems impossible with all these distractions.

Husband and I finally had some time to be together, I told him about a movie I really wanted to see, he agreed. So we did, movie night: Drive. I can't really explain what I was feeling, this piece is amazing, is a ver well done movie. Everything is carefully chosen, the script, the cast, the very visual director. You end up expierencing all sort of emotions.

My favorite from Drive:

1. Pink Mistral type in opening credits and this song as they appear.
2. Driver's satin jacket by costume designer Erin Benach.
3. The elevator scene, no words and so much said.
4. Music, as many of my favorite films, the score and songs are another character to the story.
5. The cast. I know everybody talks about Ryan, but the whole cast is nothing but spectacular.
6. Mr. Nicolas Winding Refn. From the moment I heard his speech in Cannes, where he thanked the jury for "their good taste", I knew I would love his film.

Photos: drive-movie.com

Cover Up

2011-10-31T09:44:00.000+01:00

A couple of years ago I started redecorating our living room. We were focused in creating a studio, so we painted, I bought a couple of desks and bookshelfs and got started. As always we had a low budget, so I got everything from IKEA.

The thing is that in order to be affordable they have very specific colors. I bought a couple of NILS chairs with a green cover. It wasn't the look I would prefer but it was fine by then, the first phase was completed.

Time went by and I bumped into Bemz, a design shop of style covers for IKEA furniture, ¡quite a discovery!. After some time selecting and picturing how they would look, I picked three styles.
One of the cool things about Bemz is that you can ask for samples, for free!. As soon as they arrived and saw them I knew what I wanted. The other thing I considered was the fact that they all are machine washable.

A very important thing to keep in mind is that no matter how beautiful something is for your room you have to be able to clean it easily.

I picked this cute baby, from the Marimekko selection. Beautiful. I got it within four weeks from the day I ordered. I was a little nervous with the pattern, as for the windows I already have a pattern from Emma Jeffs's lovely Otto window film. But I think it works just fine.

Finally to add some color I put a yellow cushion from Zara Home. The whole studio changed with just a couple of details, I'm really happy with it.

Photos: Elli O.

Champagne Thursday

2011-10-24T12:31:00.000+02:00

Photo: Paramount Pictures

When I heard about Champagne Thursday in a movie, I fell in love with the idea of having champagne just because.

The first time we had a champagne day was to celebrate our lovely Marie's big promotion. We got together just to toast, it was spontaneous and nice. We sat on the floor, Ander was playing behind the sofa, husband on his computer.

So here's my proposal, get together with your lovely friends and have wine or champagne, celebrate you adore each other, laugh and talk. Make it a regular thing, it's fun and you mess up a little with routine.

We just had one last week. Here's how we did it:

Champagne Thursday:
1. Make some invitations and drop them on your friend's mailbox, it's lovely to get more than just bills and advertising. Here's a template, add date and time and print.
2. Have some appetizers, we usually have cheese and olives. This time Marie made a delicious pizza dip. Thanks love.
3. Have champagne, friendship is an excellent excuse to celebrate, it deserves a good glass of bubbly. This was courtesy of Katy.
4. Dress up, put on that cute cocktail dress that's in your closet.

1. Champagne Glasses by Tanya Streeter for Habitat
2. Panda Chocolate Fondue €18,00
3. Mini Spindle Tea Light Holder € 13,70

Here's a little song that can set the mood for your Champagne Thursday. More for the rhythm than for the lyrics, I love it. Sara Bareilles Gonna Get Over You. Cheers!

Photo: Elli O.

Nice to meet you

2011-10-14T10:36:00.001+02:00

Meetings are like dates for me, as I close most of my deals online or by the phone I get pretty excited when I actually meet someone in person. Here's how I prepare:

Outfit:
My signature color is black, I try to add contrast with some bright tones in accesories, shoes or like in this case lips. For this look I used this gorgeous Joli Rouge by Clarins.
One of my favorite outfits lately: black pants, high heels, striped blouse. My favorite buy from summer, this jacket, love the detailed shoulders, super cute!, plus it works with some jeans and flats too (for a more urban look).

Gadgets I take:
iPhone (old but still works), Macbook Air (super like, beautiful and problem solver) + lovely Kaos sleeve by Tous, USB Flash Drive (husband just bought me a 32 GB new baby).

Have some pretty cards made, even if you aren't a freelancer it's nice to give your number on a card instead of a napkin. I made mine at moo, they are affordable and you can make some pretty things if you are creative. I made 3 styles, one for my Creative Shop, one for friends and one for "thank you".

My picks to complete a meeting look:
1. Kate Spade Rainspot Laptop Sleeve € 44,00
2. Swarovski Bunny USB Pearly Red €79,00
3. Swarovski Crystalline USB Pen White Pearl €65,00

Photo: Elli O.

La paloma que une a más de cien

2011-10-10T11:39:00.000+02:00

EL proyecto 31Mil Retratos por la Paz llegó a Bilbao a través de "La Zapoteca", la paloma de papel que Diego Huerta creó para representarle en Europa.

Moritz Bernoully fue el primero en recibirla, en Rotterdam. Moritz comenzó, junto con "la Zapoteca", la distribución del mensaje de Diego: “el deseo de la paz en México, por medio de retratos de personas de su localidad”. Se la llevó de viaje por Polonia, para luego enviarla a Euskadi desde Frankfurt.

De la mano del fotógrafo Lucho Rengifo, he tenido el privilegio de aportar algo a este proyecto tan extraordinario. La experiencia ha sido magnífica. Es un proyecto en toda regla: tuvimos reuniones de gestión y planificación. La disponibilidad nos marcó dos fechas en el calendario y luego planificamos rutas que cotejamos con amigos.

19.09.2011

Quedamos a las 5 de la tarde en el Restaurante Atlanta, donde mi querida amiga Katy nos invitó a un café. Así pudimos planificar la ruta y la mecánica. ¡Listos!.
La ruta empezaba a las 6. A menos cuarto empezamos a montarlo y a hacer pruebas en el parque de Doña Casilda, al lado del Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao. Aquí estábamos Lucho, Esteban y yo. Y llegan Toribio y Adrián, que nos acompañaron por todo el recorrido, ambos hablando con la gente e invitando a "posar" por la paz. ¡Gracias!

Llegó el momento. Yo estaba muy nerviosa. ¡Respira…! y a empezar: "¡Hola!, ¿te apetece hacerte un retrato por la paz en México?". Con esta frase me acercaba a la gente, que sinceramente fue muy amable. La mayoría se tomaban al menos el tiempo de escuchar. ¡Gracias!

A este sitio llegó Adriana, mexicana también, y muy entusiasta. trajo a unos cuantos a posar, además de su encantadora familia. ¡Gracias Guapa!

Suena mi móvil. Arantza me llama desde el Guggen: "¡ya tengo a todo el parque preparado!", me dijo. “¡Vamos hacia allí!”, y sí que tenía al parque preparado. Por Aran hicimos la foto con los músicos, quienes ya estaban listos. ¡Gracias!

En este sitio me topé con un grupo de turistas mexicanos. Cuando me acerqué con mi frase, me dicen: "¡Somos de México!". "¡Yo también", les respondí. ¡Un abrazo de grupo!. Fue muy bonito esto, en especial para mí. Yo soy de abrazos, no lo puedo evitar.
Luego a poner un tweet: "Estamos en el Guggenheim". ¡Madre mía!, cómo tarda mi móvil en publicar.

A mis espaldas siento que hay una persona, es Diego. Otro abrazo, por hacerte la foto, y por tu apoyo en twitter. ¡Gracias!.

Luego a la pasarela. Aquí un grupo de amigos de Lucho, y más gente. Aquí me topé con Giovanna, otra mexicana que vive aquí, y lo mismo: “¡somos de México!”, “¡yo también!”. Más fotos con su preciosa hija y sus amigos de Xalapa, que estaban de visita. Aquí llega mi marido, me ayuda a cargar la bolsa de la lámpara (que pesaba un poco). ¡Gracias!

“¡Al Zubizuri!”. Ya empezaban a desmontar, y vi a una señora a la que no sé por qué sentí que debía preguntar. Me dijo…"¿por México? ¡claro!", es un sitio muy especial para mi. Nos acompañó un poco y estuvo hablando conmigo, compartiendo su historia. ¡Gracias!.

Otros amigos de Lucho, y más gente que aceptaba posar. ¡Gracias!

Ultima parada: Teatro Arriaga. ¡A montar el equipo!. Más gente se acerca. Un inglés me dice, "¿For peace?. For peace, everything!". ¡Gracias!

Ver álbum: Plaza Euskadi, Guggenheim, Zubizuri-Arriaga.

26.09.2011

Esta vez me acompañaba Ander. Amama no puede quedarse con él. "Hijo, tenemos que hacer los retratos por la paz". ¿Lo del video de Diego?", me pregunta. "¡Sí!", #LaPazComienzaCreyendo.

Quedamos en El Willows de Las Arenas, mi sitio favorito. “¡Un té de rooibos, vainilla y fresas, por favor!”. Aquí empezamos la sesión. La camarera fue la primera, no sin antes ir a por su camiseta que pone "je t'aime". ¡Gracias!

Al Puente Colgante. Suena mi móvil. Es Fernan: “¡ya estoy aquí!”. Le veo. “¡Un abrazo!”. Alguien me toca el hombro, es Cristina que está a mis espaldas y me dice: “¡ya estamos listos!”: con ella sus encantadores hijos (Gorka, Iñigo y Kerman), su tía y su madre. Fer y Cris se quedaron un rato acompañándonos, hablando con viandantes y ayudando. ¡Gracias!

A empezar… "¡Hola!, ¿te apetece hacerte un retrato por la paz en México?". La gente responde y empezamos a hacer unos cuantos retratos. Me acerco a un chico que parece extranjero. Viene con su hija. "¿English?", le pregunto. Me dice: "yes but spanish too". Empezamos a hablar y le explico. Me dice que sí que se hace la foto. Es de Australia y vive aquí. "Una muy buena amiga vive allí!, le digo. Me pregunta: "¿Dónde?". "En Perth", le respondo". "¡Yo soy de ahí!" me dice, “qué coincidencia”. (¡Saludos Mayo!).

Llegan mi amiga Vanessa, su hermosa hija, sus hermanas y su sobrino. ¡A hacerse la foto!. ¡Gracias!

Llegan mi suegra, nuestra buena amiga Lali y mi sobrina Sofía. ¡Una foto más!. De mis favoritas, ¡claro!: Ander tiene en sus manos a "La Zapoteca".

¡Al Muelle!. Más fotos. Me salta un mensaje. Es Maite: "¿dónde estáis?". Viene con su familia. ¡Bien!, dos fotos más: la de ella y y la de Alessandro. ¡Gracias!

“¿Tú eres Firelli?”, me pregunta una pareja. "Sí", respondo. Somos los padres de María (Le Marie, mi gran amiga). Un par de fotos más, ¡gracias!

Me acerco a una pareja. Aceptan hacerse la foto. son Carmen y Mikel, quién muestra mucho interés y nos dice que es un blogger, y que piensa publicar un post sobre el proyecto. Le dimos una invitación, nos hizo preguntas, fotos y un par de vídeos. ¡Gracias!

Más tarde llegan Eva y una amiga. “¡Cuánto tiempo sin vernos!”. ¡Gracias!

Luego cambio de plan: vamos a la plaza del metro. Nuevo tweet. De camino suena mi móvil. Es Marie: ¡ya voy para allá!. Junto con ella, Jonan y dos amigos más. La última de la noche, Ianire (hermana de Marie), que vino en bici desde Leioa para hacerse la foto. ¡Gracias!

Ver álbum: Las Arenas Getxo.

Las palabras con las que me quedo de esta aventura: Creer, Paz, Hola, Gracias. Los nombres: Josu, Katy, María, Lucho, Esteban, Endika. En este mes han sido mi apoyo. Me han enseñado tanto… De todo corazón, ¡gracias por tolerarme!.

A Diego y Dany: el proyecto atrae a más gente porque está muy bien pensado y desarrollado. Ustedes lo han tomado con la seriedad que requiere. Han creado unas palomas hermosas, nos han invitado de una forma preciosa a movernos y actuar, luchar por lo que es importante. Nos han unido más como personas, sin importar nuestro lugar de nacimiento. Eso es muy especial. Les agradezco infinitamente haberme permitido participar, y les hago formalmente la invitación a Berango Beach (no es beach, así le digo de cariño, como "motivación" a la visita). Aquí tienen su humilde casa. Serán bienvenidos.

A todos los que se hicieron la foto, los que me escucharon, por su tiempo y su sonrisa...

Fotografía: ©Lucho Rengifo
Arte: Elli O.

Kitchen Aid

2011-09-28T17:45:00.002+02:00

I have a tiny kitchen, cooking and keeping it clean is quite a task. The space is like a square, where husband put a movable island on the center, so we could store things and use the top for cutting and mixing.

Since my parents are coming I decided to make little improvements, my idea was to change the curtains (I put this gorgeous emma jeffs window film instead) and the island. I saw a very small one in ikea, I thought of putting two of this, the thing I love the most is that I can move them pretty easy.

The plans of purchasing the islands are on "hold" because of some changes in the family budget (for decoration). I'm ready for a little trip to ikea, once I save the money for it. Since this two islands don't have doors, I bought some cute jars to make the storage a little more easy on the eye.

1. Stenstorp Island €129,00.
2. Celeber Jars with lid €6,99 / €7,99.
3. Store Jar (Large) €15,00.
4. Sook Jar with lid €12,00.

Photo: Elli O.

The voice of movement

2011-09-25T13:14:00.000+02:00

How amazing is to see this kind of advertising. Exquisite aesthetic, music, photography and my favorite of all, dance. Since my beloved friend Ivette is a dancer I've been able to enjoy and learn a lot about this discipline, but for me the most amazing thing is how through movements we are able to "hear", sort of speak, a story.

Dance is one of my favorite arts, because all of the dedication and work it takes. As in some things in life, you really have to be committed to it in order to succeed. I believe that many things in life should be as strict as this, for me family is my discipline, not losing focus, and "dance" everyday through the education, raise of my child and support of my family.

The ad is for Airfrance, by the agency BETC Euro RSCG. Produced & choreographed by Angelin Preljocaj. Dancers: Benjamin Millepied (Black Swan) and Virginie Caussin. Photography: Stéphane Fontaine and Angelin Preljocaj. Music: Adagio du concerto pour piano n° 23 de Mozart performed by pianist
Vanessa Wagner and Les Siècles orchestra directed by François-Xavier Roth.

Via BlackEiffel

Braid my friend

2011-09-21T10:23:00.000+02:00

Rain season is almost here (actually I'm not sure it ever left) so I like to always be prepared. In this case not only with a rain outfit (wellies & cute raincoat checked!) but with a hairstyle too. The beauty department posted a cool video of a braid style.

Even though I haven't been able to precisely make this kind of braid, I'm happy with the results, and I think that the look works for me. My hair is pretty thick so I just make a lttle braid (two or three interlaces) and leave the rest as a ponytail.

What I love about this look is that I can use it on rainy days without worrying about humidity. If there's wind I can add a lovely hat and still works. Still working on it, but looks good!.

Floating

2011-09-14T12:54:00.001+02:00

photo: feline-fangs.tumblr.com

This photo is a perfect statement of what I consider a beautiful project. The whole set seems like and amazing journey, from picking the furniture, building the room, but mostly the model and her position. For what I can see it seems they captured her right after splashing into the sort of say "pool".

For me rigtht now, what I take from this image is a goal, I'd love to do something like this for a living, work hard in creating an atmosphere. Then evoke a reaction, for me is a portrait of a comfortable self, you get deep and enjoy it, but it's just for a moment, there's a force of nature that makes you go up, out of this beautiful and perfect place, and breathe.

That's life, lovely.

Via the beauty department.

All you have to do is ask

2011-09-14T11:39:00.001+02:00

I like to make my meetings nice and warm. Working on projects that have to do with identity often become very personal for clients. So the first step into creating a proper ambient for potential clients was to set a nice studio.In this economy, my chances of building a studio that I liked were very few, so I made a two in one project and redecorated our living room and used a little space for the studio. That way I could manage to take Ander to school, clean and cook and dedicate 5 hours straight a day strictly to work.

So, for meetings I created what I called the "Ask Sessions". I invite my clients for a little conversation. Part of some sessions are breakfasts (I make pancakes) and cappuccinos, it depends on the availability and time. One of my friends-clients just loves to talk about projects at my studio-living room, we even sit on the floor and share ideas.

Ask Sessions for clients:

1. I offer a variety of cool and hot drinks. For this I bought a Dolce Gusto coffee machine and I have to say I love it!. I have a set of super cute cups for the ask sessions, I make sure to have little details like a tag in the napkin, I show the love in every way I can. (this drives husband a little crazy, but I just can't help it).
2. I give them a luxury pencil (that's how I named them, they are just so chic!) and a notebook, if we are gonna discuss or draw ideas, better make it in a cute way.
3. I make sure there's a little music. Often play Jònsi, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Sara Bareilles, Hans Zimmer, Air, …need ambient not disco fever.

I have to be honest, sometimes I have sessions at 8 pm. or even later! some of my clients are other independent professionals, so I try to make myself available to their schedules.

Photo: ©Elli O.

Pequeños cambios

2011-09-04T23:18:00.005+02:00

31Mil Retratos por la Paz from Diego Huerta on Vimeo.

Pero constantes. Esta frase la escuché hace unos meses en una entrevista que Diego Huerta hizo explicando el porqué de su iniciativa.

El proyecto: 31K Retratos por la Paz. La causa: La Paz en México. Nuestro país, en concreto Monterrey vive actualmente una etapa de violencia sin límites. Como sociedad es el momento de actuar, mostrar que nos importa esta situación, mostrar que la paz es posible si juntos intentamos un cambio.

Diego y Dany llevan casi un año retratando a mexicanos con una paloma de papel. "La Huasteca", como ha sido bautizada, ha estado en las manos de ya casi 20,000 personas, que quieren la paz.

Desde el momento en el que vi una foto de 31K en facebook, me emocioné, por la imagen tan preciosa, por los rostros, porque me vi en cada uno de ellos, porque amo a Monterrey y porque creo que no es imposible lograr un cambio.

Era un domingo por la tarde, le escribí a Dany de la misma y en un momento recibí su respuesta, el proyecto se basa en los retratos con lo que era necesario que para colaborar pudiera contar con un fotógrafo. Le escribí a mi amigo Lucho Rengifo, y poco antes de madianoche, vi su respuesta, estaba muy entusiasmado y aceptó gustosamente el reto.

Como parte de esta iniciativa por la paz nos ha llegado al país vasco "La Zapoteca". Nos la han mandado desde Alemania, para ser retratada durante septiembre, para luego volar a París hacia un capítulo más de su viaje por Europa.

¿Te animas a hacerte una foto?

Little Totems

2011-09-04T10:36:00.002+02:00

Here's a list of mine. My little treasures with special meaning, I keep them in my studio as part of my inspirational atmosphere. Each object has been picked or given to me in very special and random circumstances, but always at the moment I needed.

1. A printed edition of the poem Desiderata by Max Ehrmann. I found it in a London Bookshop on a rainy day.
2. A sign with the word desiderata. My lovely friend Ivette asked her brother to make this for me on his workshop, as I told her that for me that poem has been a lifesaver. Thank you love.
3. Yoshimi Kimmidoll. I picked her randomly and coincidentally she expresses respect.
4. Keri Smith's Living Out Loud Book, it keeps me playing and drawing my dreams.
5. Fairy, this little one was a gift from my husband, from one of his business trips to Galicia.
6. Crystal Pencils. Colorful and beautiful pencils for writing special words for loved ones.

Love

2011-04-24T17:16:00.004+02:00

Such wonderful pieces created by an agency called Love. Beautiful choice of color and typography, exquisite photography of ordinary people, becoming someone else.

Via Black Eiffel.

Bryce

2011-04-24T16:17:00.011+02:00

Here in the north we have a kind of bittersweet spring, some days it comes shinny and light, others gray and cool. But that can´t stop us from embracing our sunny days, go out on your bike and enjoy the breeze.

For me the most lovely thing of this spring is yellow, this season is so colorful, that it overshadows any gray mood. So beautiful.

Since tha launching of the collection I adored Kate Spade's spring campaign featuring Bryce Dallas Howard. And then I saw she is in the movie The Help. The poster is gorgeus and fun, another movie to the list, waiting for a soon release in Spain.

Melancholia

2011-04-24T14:55:00.011+02:00

Melancholia from Zentropa on Vimeo.

Very few times I take a ride into the dark worlds of some artists. I've just seen two of Lars Von Trier's movies, though his projects deal mostly with values and ethics, I feel I have to be in a very special mood to see his work. I saw 'Dancer in The Dark', because Björk was starring and singing. That experience was very disturbing, I loved the performances, the music, the cast was brilliant, but it was very intense for me, I guess the feeling I got afterwards.

Then I saw 'Dogville' which I found very well done and interesting, I thought the journey of the characters was so disturbingly real, and found the set to be extraordinary, the movie evolves in a kind of theater set, no exteriors or special effects, the walls and gardens are created by our own mind, as we are told through drawn lines where is everything. I really loved the photography and the performances.

And that's it, as much as I love Charlotte Gainsbourg I didn't saw 'Anthicrist' it was too much for me. When I found out about 'Melancholia' I didn't hesitated on watching the trailer. This few seconds can show a beautiful art direction, photography, and of course, Charlotte.

On the web page, you can read under the trailer: "A beautiful movie about the end of the world".

Struck by

2011-04-24T13:19:00.008+02:00

An amazing voice and poetry. Adele's words are really stories women can relate to. But she also sings them in a way I can only imagine happened in nightclubs in the 60's where a singer could make an audience go completely quite in awe of her gifted voice. No skinny dancers, no lasers or huge screens. Only a piano and herself, that's talent.

Rue Magazine

2011-04-24T12:53:00.005+02:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More fashion

Found out about this gorgeous magazine through an interview to Megan Knight Gonzalez. I loved her studio and made a post about it. This magazine has become in one of my must reads, and it introduced me to the wonderful Bri Emery, which I think, emanates a very positive attitude about design and style, work and the challenges of life. Love to read her Design Love Fest. Love, what a wonderful philosophy of work, life.

MaeMae

2011-01-23T13:38:00.008+01:00

I'm currently adding some details to my studio, hopefully I can come with an inspirational board (quite a task 'cause of the lack of space). As I was reading Megan Gonzalez's blog I found photos of an article for a magazine (post later) featuring her gorgeous studio. I believe that to be creative you have to start with your own work space.

Portraits on the state of love

2011-01-23T13:16:00.007+01:00

Sean Lennon + Charlotte Kemp Muhl photo session by Alex Freund.

via Design Love Fest

Awe

2011-01-21T10:39:00.010+01:00

Learning lessons in the appreciation of beauty through the soul. Amazing and inspiring story from a lovely woman that shares with us her passion for motherhood. The Nienie Dialogues by Stephanie Nielson.

I personally had a laugh with the picture on the Ninie asks of this post, because I happen to find our living room like that pretty often (with only one kid, that's the amazing thing, his ability to work for two).

The write stuff

2011-01-04T13:16:00.002+01:00

Lately I've been working in some managing duties. I have quite some projects now, between personal and professional I needed to focus a little in some organization. So, I bought Bento, which I really like, it's a good database software with not only useful tools, but cute. I use it on my iMac and iphone so I keep my meeting's notes and info on the go.

Also I'm planning some sessions so I've been collecting things to use in them, like this gorgeous pencils, I first saw them on russell + hazel, I purchased a box of 10 pencils in a local store, they're not exactly this ones, but still precious for writing great ideas.

Next on my priorities is to keep on learning, I'm following all of Michael Surtees's design notes, reading him feels like attending a seminar, so interesting. Another useful site I'm reading is about data visualization, I'm in the need of translating some data into graphics and honestly I'm astonished with all the kind of programming and tools for this matter.

Happy start of a new set of months for this journey called life. As my father says, every morning is a happy one, the rest of the day could be as dark as you like, but always start happy.

Jónsi

2010-11-25T10:40:00.006+01:00

Gray has been the color for this month, neutral in between shades, both for scenery and emotions. For some contrast to this hectic week, a little of soft sounds. Splendid music, a must listen during my working hours.

Favorites: Kolniður, Around Us, Go, Tornado

Ex Vivian

2010-11-16T11:19:00.006+01:00

Expressing heart and thoughts through work is such a beautiful way to communicate, in some way I feel lucky to have a sort of tool to show some of my opinions. In my case, I get to use graphics, but I've always loved the way actors, dancers, musicians use their talent to share emotions with others.

Cute indie style from Krysten Ritter, loved her sound and personality. I also loved her in Gravity.

Buscar más artistas como ex vivian en Myspace Music

Via The Shelby

Just in time

2010-11-12T19:45:00.008+01:00

For some Holiday planning, this year's christmas mood is starting to show. I was so happy to see that Ez from Creature Comforts launched Gifted, a beautiful magazine with lots of freebies and DIY projects. A true labor of collaboration and talent.

Open publication - Free publishing - More christmas

Via Twig & Thistle

Rebuild and Reborn

2010-10-20T15:52:00.005+02:00

Sometimes I make myself believe I'm not able to create things with my own hands anymore. I've been working for so long behind my computer that I forget the magical feeling of shaping something, creating a lovely box from a piece of paper or ironing prints into fabric, I don't do those things as often as I used to.

I found this gorgeous episode from a talented group of women, Spruce Upholstery, they are launching a tv pilot and I loved it. They rebuild furniture into unique amazing pieces, when they explain some of the process in this video they tell how we can preserve some old structures and give them a new look. For me this is kind of a motivational profession, as you need a lot of patience and dedication into one piece at the time, so inspirational.

I truly enjoyed this videos, made me want to sew, lets hope I can manage to stick to this task and do it.

Process: Upholstery with Spruce Home from Etsy on Vimeo.

Via Design Sponge

Rainy

2010-10-16T19:31:00.003+02:00

A cold saturday, another rainy day, looks like the days of light drizzle are here. After some errands I'm finally home, put some noodles, cuddling up in my blanket as I listen to this lovely song.

Azure Ray "Don't Leave My Mind" from Drawing Down the Moon

Via Black Eiffel

Sophie's Eyes

2010-10-14T14:13:00.007+02:00

I remember clearly how I fell in love with Annie Lennox's "Why", from her extraordinary Diva. I thought this gorgeous creature was so intimate, little I knew, I thought the song was sad, but it is until now that I understand completely her sadness, and that it explores some of the pain that carries the complicated state of marriage.

And the images are still with me, her eyes as she puts on her make up, so sincere, we look at her through a mirror.

That was my introduction to the visions of Sophie Muller, I don't get to watch to many musical videos, but I found this one and loved it, her recent project, Brandon Flowers "Only the Young".

It features the cast of La Rêve in Las Vegas. Amazing.

Via JustJared

The color of stories

2010-10-14T13:58:00.005+02:00

I knew something about the movie For Colored Girls, since I coincidentally saw a poster of one of the characters. But it was until I saw the intimate look of this gorgeous illustration that I actually watched the trailer. Extraordinary introduction through Marion Bolognesi's art.

Pakistan Help

2010-09-28T11:27:00.008+02:00

Como ya saben muchos, la situación en Pakistán ha llegado a nivel de emergencia. Aunque estamos en una situación económica complicada, tal vez podamos encontrar la forma de colaborar, si es así, les dejo un tarjeta de agradecimiento. Yo, aunque pequeño, haré un donativo en nombre de varios miembros de mi familia, con los que compartiré este pequeño gesto, a través de las tarjetas.

Si están interesados pueden hacer su donativo aquí.

Una pequeña nota: Mi querida amiga Val me ha dejado un poco de espacio en su site para albergar las etiquetas. La tipografía utilizada en el título es de descarga gratuita por Conqueror, pertenece a un proyecto que recomienda una impresión más responsable.

............................................................................................................................

As most of you should know, Pakistan has reached an emergency level, as devastation overcame by flooding. Even though the economic situation isn't the best right now, maybe we can find a way to help. If this is so, I leave a little thank you card. In my case I'll make a little contribution in the name of my family and friends, so I'll share this gesture with them, through the cards I intend to send them.

If you're interested in making a donation you can do it here.

Note: My beloved friend Val lend me some space in her site to upload de tags. The font used for the logo is a free download from a very interesting project by Conqueror, focusing in a more responsible printing.

Changes

2010-09-27T20:35:00.010+02:00

At this hard times we are reminded of the strength of our relationships. Changes are affecting our life, this economic phase is really shaking things up. For me all of this becomes a challenge, as my father survived one of the most hard crisis in Mexican history, he did it remarkably and emerged a wiser much stronger man.

He's now enjoying some of his life effort and he does it with such joy. So for us as family it is a lesson to follow.

As I keep cutting budget in supplies, and sadly fashion, I found a way to keep getting some things, trade. In change for some extra work I traded a couple of things with some clients-friends.

Through this new kind of currency I got this baby, my old iMac, the one I used in one of the agencies I worked.

While working today I found this song via Floddertje. I kept playing it while I wrote this. Cute.

Crochet by Dom Mino'

Brigitte Lacombe

2010-09-27T17:20:00.014+02:00

It's always important to keep a photo journal of projects. Whenever I shoot places or products, or just a little glass for my portfolio I take a lot of time preparing the elements, accesories, light, and sometimes is in this scenario where you find perfect pictures.

I wish I could have my own Brigitte Lacombe, I saw her shots from Marie Antoinette's film set and I just felt that I was in Versailles that summer.

Can't wait to get her book, her work is just breathtaking. Extraordinary.

Via Her Name Was Lola

Melissa Chaib

2010-09-27T16:46:00.013+02:00

Mexican illustrator (from Monterrey, ¡yei! homeland) has a fun and free style in her pieces. Her work and clever statements made my day.

As I read her diary I get her fearless attitude, love her work and her thoughts. Another artist to follow.

Via Here Name Was Lola

In good company

2010-08-24T14:38:00.012+02:00

I love to see when design and charity come along and bring people together for fun and a purpose.

As I started reading about Ashley Ann's book party I felt so inspired to keep looking for charitable messages to spread through design. She did an amazing project that required time, dedication, but mostly a charity objective: to donate children's books for The Joyful Life Library, more about this project after the jump.

Here are some pics of her party, loved the invitations, the popcorn boxes, the tags for kids to fill so that they directly give the book.

Her blog is amazing, I found immersed in all her initiatives, she's a dedicated mom, and a conscientious one, 'cause one of the things I look the most in people is the responsibility of teaching kids our place in the world, our humanity, our ability to help.

The Joyful Life Library

After I saw all the pictures and read all the party details I clicked on the gorgeous logo por this cause. And truly found it admirable.

This project came after loss, Heather from blessed little nest, shared the story of her little Samuel, who passed at 6 weeks old. I can't imagine to overcome something like that, she's been able to share it and invite everyone to honor life, through acting. Thank you Heather.

via poppytalk

Falling

2010-08-24T00:14:00.008+02:00

For these gorgeous outfits from J. Crew's fall collection. The ads show the cast of The Romantics.

Focus II

2010-08-23T12:23:00.010+02:00

I have to accept that one of my most beloved distractions is the appreciation of other designer's work.

Mostly women, I spend most of my afternoons listening to music, and enjoying so delightful stories from this girls, they share so much through their pieces.

Tea and art, it's practically narcotic.

Since I've been collecting this blogs for a while I'll post this three at once.

Blanca Gómez
With so little, shapes and color she can project so much.

Suz Sánchez
Blown away by her patterns of life.

Verónica de Arriba
Gorgeous characters we meet through paper, necklaces and all sort of materials.

All this gals are spanish, two of of them from Bizkaia, which makes me so happy, I used to meet artists through friends at exhibitions (back in my city), now I'm happy that I keep on finding them through other channels, but still can enjoy their work and purchase it. So motivating, to see, share ... to be.

Hands as instrument

2010-08-23T12:06:00.006+02:00

When I go to art exhibitions, and stare at beautiful paintings or sculptures I feel so thankful for being able to show a litlle of what my thoughts are in a decent way.

Back in the days, artists were experts in several techniques, from drawing, painting, shaping, all with natural elements and their mind wide open.

Now for designers like me, its possible to translate some clients ideas into images, with taste and clever shape picks, because of the help of software.

But we still can find amazing and truly breathtaking design, that can be called art.

Irma Gruenholz's beautiful clay illustrations are amazing, the combination of materials create gorgeous environments.

via netdiver

Focus

2010-08-23T11:25:00.004+02:00

Been a little bit out of my path. But now I have some time off (mummy and wife duties) so I'll try to focus and make a planner so I can manage time better.

I'm listening to Regina Spektor's Far, got my camera ready. Lots of ideas I still have to put on paper.

Been practicing a little more of Illustrator tricks. I follow some blogs that publish tutorials, one is Jay Hilgert's bittbox, but the one I really love is Veerle Pieters's blog, they're both great but I can relate to Veerle's style. This two not only share their talent but they really care about design and the way we approach it in order to be better.

Fireworks

2010-08-02T21:10:00.009+02:00

On friday we went to one of the many local festivities of this year. One of the good things I've enjoyed the most since I moved here are this events, each town has its own, there are concerts and lots of traditional things that I still don't completely understand. This plus my favorite time of year in Euskadi, summer, they are magical, beautiful colors and sun until 10 pm. ¡amazing! (personally I think is kind of a compensation for hard winters).

One of the most important moment of each night is when they ignite fireworks. This was Ander's first time, since they do it pretty late for him, and he was pretty excited.

There we were on the grass on a lovely night, me and my two basques. Ander was so happy, but tired too. I looked at him, all smiley, he said: "¡Wow!, they look really ¡cool! ¿When do we go home to bed?". Sweet moment.

Summer

2010-07-14T10:49:00.009+02:00

Here it is, the sun is still reluctant, but summer is here.

And I'm really into movies this year. Even though there are so many things to do, between tons of local festivities and the beach, I'm really expecting this year San Sebastian's Film Festival,hoping they show a couple of movies I'm really into. Sofia's Somewhere and Lisa Cholodenko's The Kids Are All Right, ever since I saw the trailer, back in april I just fell for it. It looks like a very fun movie and the cast is amazing.

Emerging

2010-07-13T09:26:00.010+02:00

My last post was about nature at rage, claiming its right to flow through what now became concrete structures on the way of what once was the path for water to flow.

My beloved Monterrey has been punished by a disaster, fortunately human losses were minimal, but the city has collapsed and has a lot of material damage.

Even if we are far there are ways to help, through our family and friends. Even through art, because this is happening to fast, our planet is starting to complain about all the exceeds of humans. Today is in one place far, tomorrow it could be near.

Diego Huerta made a series of photos about this particular disaster, there are breathtaking, a testimony of what happened through damage and people. Because one of our proudest treasures is our people, so many of them poor, but happy.

Thank you Diego for this gesture. And thank you to all who are there helping, thank you to those gorgeous kids that made of some pictures a statement: Let's rise, we can do it.

Via Mayola's mail

Click here to see all the pictures.

Es el momento...

2010-07-06T10:00:00.005+02:00

De regalar momentos. Después de un desastre natural, de vernos a salvo, de contactar con los nuestros y dar abrazos... gracias.

Un momento, para observar, ¡estoy bien! ¿y mi familia?

Un momento, miro por la ventana, los echo de menos, ¿y yo qué puedo hacer?

Un momento y actuar, hay mucho que hacer, ser voluntario es posible, es solo eso, un momento...

Y ahora quedan trozos, el vehículo serán los pies, un momento para meditar, ¿qué hemos hecho de nuestra ciudad?

Un momento y actuar.

In between

2010-06-24T10:09:00.006+02:00

Bits of time take my days, a bit in the morning, I'm making the bed. A bit when I go to the window and enjoy some stranger's visit, hello sun, it's been a while.

Bits of time for new projects, there're methods to develop, paper and words in a new adventure for sisters apart.

A lot of time for a boy who's my teacher in enjoying life.

And this morning a story I just found out it's coming to theaters, I really love Sofia's work. Lovely music.

Happy days, happy music, happy soul. For the moment.

Imogen Heap

2010-05-05T16:35:00.011+02:00

Every time I get into this sharing mania, I kind of feel so close to my friends. It all started this morning, working on a logo (after assembling my tables, succesfully). I got up (still kind of stuck), took one book, in search of inspiration, grabbed my coffee, and then I started thinking, cause that happens when I try to distract myself from my tasks.

I thought of the times when I was single, and dreamed of having a kid, then a song came to my mind. Went to the shelf where my old cd's are (the ones I brought from Monterrey). I started laughing, remembering all sort of things. I think I have a specific memory for some of the songs.

Then I shared on facebook what I was doing, my good friend Dany replied. And finally we got to the point of a little mission: listen to women's music for today. Since one of my recent acquisitions is indeed an extraordinary album, from a girl, here's my share. I love this album, I play it a lot for my work mood, It makes me imagine things.

Love: First Train Home, Tidal, Aha!, Half Life.

¡Enjoy!

It's about our surrounding

2010-05-04T13:30:00.009+02:00

I'm really dizzy with lots of stuff to do. This morning I got up really really early, to finish a newsletter, went to buy some tables for our living room (wich I have to assemble still), and I'm kind of stuck with a new logo.

That's why I started to read my favorite blogs. I bumped into a Jesica Hische interview for Semi-Permanent. I love her work, it's not only delicate and detailed, she works most of the time with type, which is one of my favorite fields.

Since I really don't have a "creative" surrounding near me, I really get this kind of things as my inspirational advice. She's 25, an accomplished professional, and so inspiring, here we need more youngsters like her, because it's not only the weather that's gray, attitude is too. Hope you can enjoy it too.

Via designworklife

Sights of Spring

2010-04-16T20:00:00.004+02:00

Just got back from a stroll, Ander has a new bike and today was his first day!! He's done really good, we had a snack on a bench and then went to the park.

A lovely day, gorgeous spring colors.

Have a nice weekend.

The Finder

2010-04-15T10:09:00.015+02:00

One of my beloved treasures is Keri Smith's Living Out Loud. She's one of my hero's because of her constant involvement in the improvement of being, she's constantly writing inspirational articles, encouraging others to create.

Most of her methods have to do with activities that challenge us to move and create, most of the time with unusual techniques, unusual but fun, and that's extraordinary.

Nowadays it's easier to keep our mind and thoughts in a tiny box, because of all the negativity (economics, work, routine). Through this we get to learn how to be creative and go back to our childish enthusiasm, play and enjoy nature, observe instead of giving little glimpses.

One of my objectives now is to "enjoy" all the processes in my day to day activities (from doing the bed, to playing with my kid). So, yesterday I picked one of my favorite activities, it's called: The Finder.

The Finder

A finder is a small piece of cardboard (about three-by-four inches) with a one-inch-square hole cut out of the middle. In the book she explains some ways to use it, I chose the one that suggests to take it out. I packed a bag with Ander's lunch, grabbed my camera and finder, and went to pick him up from school. We went to the park and I sat on a bench, we talked, we laughed, I enjoyed the sun, got to watch a lot of things, the grass, my feet, Ander playing.

I took pictures and spent a lot of time observing through my finder, this is only a start, I can make as much finders as I like, in different colors. I had a lot of fun, plus it's hilarious when people look at you and wonder ¿What is she doing?.

Extraordinary Measures

2010-04-13T12:41:00.010+02:00

I'm an avid reader of Gabrielle Blair's blog, Design Mom, may I just say that not only she has very interesting posts, but several other projects and ¡five kids!, and pregnant with her sixth!!!. Here I am struggling with my profession and one kid, and she has six times my challenge (and makes it), how admirable.

Anyway, she posted about a spanish designer and her amazing gesture, well hers and other illustrators. I'm talking about the project: We Are a Happy Family.

Esti from pintameldia came up with this card game that features the work of eight international artists. I've already ordered mine, for me it's a must have, not only 'cause of the gorgeous art, but because all proceeds will go to Doctors without Borders. It's a beautiful way to act.

Please take a look into Esti's beautiful blog, for me her writing, pictures, her art feel like a journey, a very emotional one. I'm in awe of "Me & My Ghosts".

In a funny note, it's amazing that I found out about her through a blogger in Denver, when she's almost my neighbor. ¡Seriously! I have to get out of my little routine.

Another year, Another glass

2010-04-13T11:57:00.010+02:00

It's been a year since my first post, that one was about change, represented in a glass.

This year I had a great opportunity for change, in a professional way, and I took it. This is a great challenge for me, because it requires a lot of management and commitment, I'll embrace this great chance to grow and learn. Thank you Dad for making it possible.

This change is really different, it actually came as a beautiful cup, carrying morning tea, flavor: vanilla (as most of my dreams). And wait a minute...yes, it shows another message, this time is a question.

This change is a little bit more demanding, the pieces are out there, I just have to put them together and start, how amazing.

Un cuento...

2010-04-12T20:07:00.004+02:00

Era noviembre, además del frío intenso había una gran nube gris que solo yo podía ver, no importaban ni las risas, ni la música, ni el sol.

También era mi cumpleaños, mis compañeros en ese entonces: Martín, Sira y Maite, me regalaron palabras, ilustraciones y gráfica.

Desde entonces guardo este gran obsequio en mi caja de "tesoros", y cuando vuelve la nube, lo leo de nuevo.

Vancouver 2010

2010-02-15T19:18:00.011+01:00

The Olympics are already here, and I haven't even noticed, my God, I'm really into my routine.

Anyway, I went into their site today, to get the schedule, and noticed cute little icons on the right corner of the images for every sport.

Meet the mascots of this edition of the Winter Olympics Quatchi the Sasquatch, Miga the Sea Bear, and Sumi the Thunderbird. This adorable creatures are work of Vancouver-based Vicki Wong and Michael Murphy of Meomi Design.

Lovely work!

Show the Love

2010-02-14T22:43:00.012+01:00

Valentine's is not a holiday here, but we get to have some of the marketing mania, between movies, romantic getaways or special gifts.

But no one here really honors Love for what it is, and for me is so appealing, whether is set on February 14th or not, I really believe that celebrating Love should happen every now and then.

A perfect excuse just to say I love you, comes with Rachel Wile's Valentine's DIY products. Sorry for us her cute Love Coupon Matchboxes are sold out, but they're worth watching at least, what a beautiful project.

I liked the candy bars too, the templates are for download purchase at her etsy store.

Via the dieline

Here's a little song, just to keep us in the LOVE mood. ¡Enjoy!

Layered Spring

2010-02-10T16:51:00.008+01:00

Here, that's not just a concept, but a reality. Since I moved, seven years ago,I haven't seen the spring, the season goes by and I keep wearing coats, foulards, gloves, all kind of clothing that can keep be warm.

So this gorgeous layered spring looks by Aubin & Wills are just so inspiring, layering gets to be fun, this colors are just lovely.

One thing I've learned from my friends here is not to fear weather, we can get to use dresses or shorts by layering. I still don't risk enough to use tights with sandals, but this definitely look good.

Via frolic

Shake It

2010-02-08T21:27:00.004+01:00

I´m in love with this iphone app, just got it and keep taking pictures and shaking my phone, so fun.

I don't remember where I saw this first, but looking into this gorgeous site I thought about it again.

I took the second picture on a very cold wednesday morning, the sun was just rising and I thought it was a beautiful sight.

Via designworklife

Hello Gorgeous

2010-01-28T12:24:00.004+01:00

¡Wow! I started my day with this exciting news, Apple's presentation of their iPad. It's beautiful and I believe going to become one of our very favorite gadgets.

Every one has a story

2010-01-21T18:27:00.009+01:00

And it's all about that, sometimes we are lucky in life, and we don't even see it. To most of the people it's about being born somewhere in the map, where we're able to have opportunities to survive, succeed, learn, grow, become.

Rosa Loves it's about awareness, and I really love that. They actually take a step forward and do things to improve their surrounding, there are several stories and people they help through creativity and clothing.

¿Wouldn't be nice to have a kind of Rosa Loves in every community around the world?. It would just make it easier, we could educate ourselves by acting, get to discover our humanity and hopefully pass it to our kids.

Such an inspiration.

Via Pitch. Design Union

There it goes

2010-01-21T17:20:00.005+01:00

A beautiful way of portraying the tragic end of an idea. I personally think that mine end up like in the second picture.

I could name my little box of wasted ideas "Le guillotine", it's just more fancy than trash. Coincidentally most of my proposals are cute and accessorized with quite a "Marie Antoinette" style (Sofia Coppola's version).

Original work by Scott Campbell.

Click here to see the Eight Ways to Kill an Idea.

Via FLIRTing with the clouds

Laguntza Haití

2010-01-18T23:15:00.005+01:00

Imagino que la mayoría se ha enterado de la situación por la que pasa Haití, en la web de UNICEF España se han habilitado cuentas para hacer donativos, de poco en poco podemos llegar a dar una gran aportación a los niños que allí representan casi el 50% de la población.

Laguntza Haití significa Ayuda Haití en euskera, he creado este ícono para distribuir el mensaje de UNICEF País Vasco de una forma un poco más gráfica, creo que lo que he aprendido al estar rodeada de pobreza (en Monterrey) es que ante la adversidad y muchas veces el dolor, la gente que menos tiene mantiene una sonrisa, y eso es admirable.

Si puedes colabora.

Christmas Mood

2009-12-22T15:09:00.008+01:00

Christmas is here already!! And I still haven't finished the extra little details I planned for this year. Work has really taken all my time.

Lucky for us, Amy Moss, had the amazing gesture of sharing with us this lovely templates, she made downloadable mail gift tags, gift tags and treat bags.

Remember to link to her website or to add her credit on the prints, it's the least we can do if we use them. (I suspect lovely M and K are definitively going to).

Get your printers ready and get into some ¡christmas mood!

Via Twig & Thistle

Love

2009-12-14T22:35:00.005+01:00

I've been reading Carole Guevin's blog since 2003, not only it has an impecable technical aspect and functionality, but also a great deal of commitment with creativity and sharing. I look up to people like her, because of her ideas and personality, her talent and compromise with our humanity, dreams, wishes, art.

I write about her because of the LOVE post she published, she shares with us a beautiful gift, even when she's going through moments of grief, how admirable.

Thank you Carole, LOVE for you and your family.

To all of us, let's spread the LOVE. Above the poster, which is available for free download to share and print.

The Growing Self

2009-12-13T13:22:00.006+01:00

As I grow older I keep getting more experiences, more mistakes, more dreams, but with them they come all this responsibilities. Most of the time I get caught in between what I have to do, and what I would like to do.

Being a mother is my top duty and honor, but it takes a lot of what I wanted to achieve aside, so sometimes I get a little down.

But watching so beautiful work, inspires me. We know Tom Ford for his exquisite taste and gorgeus cuts for couture. He's an elegant man, and has accomplished so much as a fashion designer, that it's so breathtaking to see he is a great filmmaker too. ¡So inspiring!, you never know which endeavour would really show what you're trying to say, your soul, luckily some can make a living from it. I wish I can reach that point someday, or at least I'll keep writing, dreaming, and learning...trying.

Here's A Single Man's trailer, Tom Ford's debut film, I can't wait to see it. Above gorgeus pictures of the leading actors, from an article for V magazine.

World of Ely

2009-12-10T22:17:00.007+01:00

There are angels and fairys, characters that speak through dreams and stories to be told. Ely has a great imagination and talent, she shares with us the beautiful images she sees in her mind, through her camera.

Above, the beautiful picture she used as invitation to her recent exhibition, LOVE, the model, my gorgeus dear friend Iv.

Retro Mood

2009-12-10T18:15:00.006+01:00

A while ago my friend Martín linked me to Chris Spooner's blog, every now and then I read it, it's amazing and full of tips and ideas.

I've been looking for some tips to create retro effects on pictures, here I found a couple of posts with some good actions.

I used one on some pictures of my last trip to London, and I think they worked pretty well. For some of us who like to decorate with our own art, this is a good tool.

Listening

2009-12-08T20:03:00.007+01:00

Lately I play a lot this beautiful album, I really liked the style, the lyrics, the voices. It's a good record for work, really nice and smooth, I LOVE IT.
I saw their performance on Ellen and when she interviewed them, Pete said that the picture of the cover was taken by his cousin, completely improvised, in a recording studio in his garage, it's so beautiful.

Here's one of the songs, my favorite, Shampoo. Come on, take a break, grab a cup of tea, press play and look outside the window. Enjoy!

For print

2009-12-08T19:03:00.006+01:00

I found this site and I think it's very useful, sometimes I keep using the same things when I print, because of the budget. FPO (For Print Only) shows us projects and its costs, materials and finishes, looking into them I get a much wider view.

Above, There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly Book
for Chronicle Books.

I'm an admirer of all the Under Consideration projects, soon I hope to get one of their books.

Yellow Eyes

2009-12-08T18:10:00.007+01:00

Even though the movie hasn't been released in Spain, I'm ready for the ¡Wild things!. We bought Ander the book, and he is the best telling the story, he enjoys being read to, but once he learns a little about a book, he likes to "read it" to us (meaning he creates his own version and pass the pages, cause he can't read yet).

I've wanted to link to this gorgeus site about the characters for months, but I'm the worst blogger ever, anyway, this is a beautiful project by Corey Godbey.

Above Jacob Souva's Contribution.

Via Ana Galvañ

Let's Draw!

2009-08-27T16:21:00.000+02:00

Simple lines, one color, and fabric. Merrilee from mer mag shows us how to add a stylish look to ordinary fabrics, using a fabric marker and her drawing abilities.
Via Apartment Therapy.

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Simples trazos, un color y textil. Merrilee de mer mag nos muestra como lograr un diseño especial con un trozo de tela, un marcador y sus habilidades de dibujo.
Via Apartment Therapy.

Soft Color Memories

2009-08-26T12:14:00.000+02:00

Flashdance is a collaboration between Our Labor of Love, Max Wanger and Michael Antonia. Extraordinary photography, lovely colors and frames.
I believe that when celebrating special ocassions these are the kind of people you need to help you create unique memories.
Via 100 Layer Cake

Vale Design

2009-08-26T12:01:00.000+02:00

Designer Erin Vale has cute downloadable gift boxes in her shop.
PDF templates, affordable and easy to make.
Via Design Crush

Art & Copy

2009-08-24T22:04:00.001+02:00

I've never felt like an advertising person, even though most of my work had to do with it, I really don't believe I'm the best for the job. I think that as a profession it looses focus and ethics. But I've always believed that there's such amount of drama that they can make a novel about it, each creative has his own version. So, when I see that they write series or movies about it, I get curious.
Seems like we get to see some of the creative process in advertising through
Art & Copy, a documentary by Doug Pray.

Eleven

2009-08-24T16:32:00.001+02:00

That's how old is the artist that made this beautiful pictures, Sita Marie shows a magical sight of her thoughts. So inspiring, speaking of youthful dreams.
Via bees knees

Style with style

2009-08-24T09:13:00.000+02:00

I didn't felt like posting about expensive clothes, especially at this time. But Kate Spade's campaign for her new collection it's beautiful, I love it when the design has a classic font and photography is not about a perfect side and a very obscure and sad look. This are just fabulous, funny and colorful, happy!.

Simply Exquisite

2009-08-24T08:58:00.000+02:00

Gorgeus packaging for Yauatcha tea house and dim sum restaurant by Made Thought.
Via Lovely Package

Lenka

2009-08-09T12:15:00.000+02:00

How funny is that I was searching for Kraft Folding Boxes, and I ended up finding Lenka? And this without even looking!.
This aussie perfomer is not only a musician, but an artist too. She collaborates with James Gulliver Hancock, another australian which also did the illustration for her album cover. I actually was drawn by this, and then found out that was an album cover, and quickly got one of the songs.
Recently I've been looking to a lot of australian gorgeus things, so lucky Mayo lives there and can keep me posted, right? Greetings Perth!

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Buscaba Cajas de Kraft, cuando me encontré con Lenka, gracioso no? Sin querer he dado con una chica australiana que me encanta. No solo es músico sino también artista. Colabora con James Gulliver Hancock un ilustrador también australiano, que además hizo la portada de su albúm. De hecho esto fue lo que me atrajo al link, fue más tarde que vi que era una portada para un disco, luego escuché la música y rápidamente adquirí una de sus canciones.
Recientemente me he encontrado con enlaces de trabajo australiano precioso, suerte que Mayo vive allí, y puede mantenerme actualizada, no?. Saludos Perth!

MAMT

2009-08-09T11:06:00.000+02:00

Between halls in ancient neighborhoods and remains of gigantic roman structures, you can find and old house that shelters the Museum of Modern Art of Tarragona. There are several rooms dedicated to Julio Antonio's work, one of Tarragona's most important artists. I was amazed with his pieces, his story and journeys that made him define his style, and the things he wanted to represent. He died at only thirty, leaving behind very honest and precious pieces.
One of my most intense moments, while watching the exhibition, was when I stood in front "El Mausoleo Lemonier", this was his last order, a monument for the grave of one of Lemonier's sons, who died when he was eleven years old. The mother is made of bronze, and the son of white marble.
For me as a mother, it was like representing the obscure moment of pain, the question -Why him, and not me?-, the son pale, quiet, nonexistent; but still, there. Beautiful.

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Entre los pasillos de barrios antiguos y restos de grandes estructuras romanas, se encuentra una casa antigua que alberga al Museo de Arte Moderno de Tarragona. Gran parte de las salas se dedican a uno de sus escultores más importantes, Julio Antonio, quedé impresionada con su obra, su vida, sus viajes para definir su estilo y lo que quería reflejar. Murió con tan solo treinta años, dejándonos esculturas preciosas y honestas.
Uno de los momentos más intensos para mi, al ver su obra fue al estar frente a "El Mausoleo Lemonier", este fue su último encargo, y era un monumento funerario que la familia Lemonier pretendía poner en la tumba de uno de sus hijos, que murió a los once años. La figura de la madre es de bronce y la del hijo de mármol blanco.
Para mi como madre, fue como representar la oscuridad del dolor, de la pregunta -¿Porqué él y no yo?-, y el hijo, pasivo, quieto, blanco, inexistente, pero aún presente. Nunca fue instalada en dicha tumba, y es de agradecer el gesto de poder cederla y compartirla con el mundo.

Here's another piece that I liked, this one is by Lluis Saumells it's called "Astrònom" (please look at the beautiful dome on the ceiling). I have to thank my husband because he entertained our son while I took my time observing and taking pictures of this piece.

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Y aquí otra pieza que me encantó, ésta es de Lluis Saumells, se titula "Astrònom" (miren el precioso domo en el techo de esta habitación). El que estas fotos existan es gracias a mi marido, quien entretuvo a nuestro hijo mientras me tomaba mi tiempo haciéndolas.

Persian Red

2009-08-07T09:30:00.000+02:00

According to Colorstrology that's my color, and it defines me like this:

09/11 Pantone 19-1860 Dramatic, Provocative, Colorful:
Your dramatic personality can bring you to the public eye. You can be influential to others, so its important that you channel your energy in a well-meaning and balanced manner. Too much intensity can cloud the truth, and it is the truth for which you really long. You have a lighthearted side that needs to be honored. A good sense of humor can birng many benefits. Your personal color aligns with the receptive side of your nature. Wearing, meditating or surrounding yourself with Persian Red helps you to attract good fortune.

What's yours?

Via The Scoop

(500) Days of Summer

2009-08-05T11:39:00.002+02:00

Some days y just get a little down, overwhelmed by my routine, letting my imagination rule the place, wasting a lot of time daydreaming . But then I get to find inspiration in film, music or photography. That is why I can't stop smiling when I see this trailer, I don't know if they'll release it in Spain, but hopefully I'll watch it on DVD.
I adore Zooey Deschanel, she has grace, a unique personality and style, did I mention that she sings too? .

I just bought the soundtrack of the movie, here's one of the songs. How convenient right? The title is Sweet Disposition, just the attitude I need.

Red Issue

2009-08-03T19:01:00.000+02:00

Looking into Hello Monday's portfolio I found this site. Clean and elegant design with a peculiar navigation, we have to draw lines in order to access to the content in each menu. It is through gestures that we get to explore, learn or enjoy. How wonderful! Red Issue

Tarraco

2009-08-03T17:44:00.000+02:00

Josu surprised us with a last minute trip to Tarragona. We knew that we were taking some time off, but it was until the last week that he said to me where we were going. He was there some years ago and liked it very much. We had an amazing time in this precious city, that was once part of the Roman Empire. Josu enjoys history and anthropology so it was a good place to be, Ander was so excited walking by the ruins of corridors where gladiators used to wait before their fights. And I was moved by the people and the history, it feels like the walls can whisper so many stories.

We got a multiple ticket that allowed us to visit different ruins and museums, most of them are World Heritage Monuments, it included access to a couple of houses with gorgeus interiors and details.

As a treat to me we got to see the Museum of Modern Art, I'll post it later. It's a beautiful place to visit, a very nice atmosphere for family, lovely people and delicious food. We'll remember dearly.

Run Run

2009-07-25T10:33:00.000+02:00

It's been a while since I last saw this video,by Those Dancing Days which I fell in love with. But really a while, maybe a year, I found it through Black Eiffel. It just makes me happy, the song is very catchy, and the girls just keep jumping, having fun. It is until now that I find out who directed it, Daniel Eskils, so beautiful photography too. Have fun fun!...

You too...

2009-07-21T22:01:00.000+02:00

You hear some music, and find it familiar, how could it be? this colorful frames, characters in illustration, fun lines and colors, and still very true stories. A lovely way to promote a song, this is the new single of U2, "I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight".
Directed by David OReilly, who used the songs themes and lyrics to create multiple, parallel stories about people who decide to make a change in their lives. Enjoy!.
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Miro enlaces, y al seleccionar uno con ilustraciones, animación, iconografía reconozco la música. Es posible? con estos cuadros, color, líneas simples, y aún así personajes con historias complejas. Este es el nuevo vídeo para el single, "I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight" de U2.
Dirigido por David OReilly, quien usó los temas y letras de las canciones para crear múltiples, historias paralelas sobre gente que decide hacer un cambio en su vida. Disfruten!.

Hand Made

2009-07-14T19:35:00.000+02:00

Fun and playful lines in this handmade typographic illustration by Tim Bjørn for the Madame Madsen shop in Denmark. Click here to see more of the process.
Via designworklife
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Líneas alegres y traviesas se despliegan en esta ilustración tipográfica de Tim Bjørn para la tienda Madame Madsen en Dinamarca. Mira aquí algo más del proceso.
Via designworklife

A Unique Eye

2009-07-14T19:22:00.000+02:00

Each an every one of us has one, when it comes to pick a place or theme, a thing, a space where to take a picture. It is lovely to see beautiful work, but at only fifteen, I must say Olivia Bee has not only talent, but a gift. Her self portraits are precious.
Via Oh Joy!
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Todos tenemos un "ojo único" al momento de representar un espacio, idea, sentimiento, un lugar para hacer una fotografía. Es genial poder ver buen trabajo, pero con solo quince años, Olivia Bee no solo demuestra su talento, sino su don. Sus autoretratos son preciosos.
Via Oh Joy!

In the Moment

2009-07-14T18:38:00.000+02:00

So, the King of Pop is gone. My best friend Ivette sent me these pictures, her dad happen to be in New York at that time, so he took some pictures of the beloved Apollo Theater and it's homage to Michael. I cherish this pics so deeply, not only for what they represent, but because of the one person who was behind the camera at that moment, in that place. Thanks Mr. T! You are definitively one of my true icons.
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El Rey del Pop se ha ido. Mi mejor amiga, Ivette, me mandó estas fotos, su padre estaba en New York cuando pasó, y por sugerencia de su preciosa hija fue al querido Apollo Theater a hacer fotos, aprovechando el homenaje a Michael. Guardo estas fotos con mucho cariño no solo por su contenido, sino por la persona detrás de la cámara en ese momento, en ese lugar. ¡Gracias Sr. T! es usted definitivamente uno de mis íconos.