Cupkay

Bonnie Update

2012-02-07T19:34:00.001-05:00

Boy oh boy, what have I gotten myself into?!

This past weekend Chad and I headed over to my moms to start cleaning out my motorhome so we can prepare for our trip this coming June. I stopped by Walgreens on the way and picked up lots of cleaning supplies, assuming that all my motorhome needed was a big scrub-down. We get inside the RV and start throwing away the mattresses, all the trash, cleaning out the drawers and cabinets...etc etc. Once we took the mattress out of the cab-over we instantly knew that we had a project on our hands. There was a ton of water damage... basically all of the wood was destroyed. When I bought my motorhome last August, there was some spotting on the wood in the cab-over but it was nothing to fret about, it actually assumed to be glue of some sort. There was no water damage that we could see throughout the entire motorhome, so when we saw the spotting in the cab-over we didn't automatically assume it was water damage, and if it was, then it was enough to be easily fixed.
Between the time we bought it and this past weekend, the water damage basically spread throughout the entire cab-over. The floor and the walls had to be removed and we had to gut the entire area. I'm not going to lie, it was a complete mess. I was on the verge of tears throughout the entire process of gutting the area.

(these pictures were taken about half-way through the process, basically everything you see that's wood in the first two pictures is now gone)

I felt like my entire motorhome was doomed, and that I would have to trade it in for a different one because it was beyond repair. Obviously, I was over-thinking the entire thing and thinking completely impractically. The rest of my motorhome is great, it runs great and all of the mechanical aspects of it are wonderful. It's only a cab-over which most likely will just be used for storage anyway... It's just really disheartening when you see something you love so much get torn apart.

After much research online, I found out that this is a very common problem in old Class C motorhomes, and I'm not the only person who's had to deal with this issue. I now acknowledge that I could have prevented this water damage from spreading had I cleaned out the motorhome as soon as I bought it, but all I can do now is see what I did wrong and learn from it. If problems aren't dealt with as soon as the arise, they only grow larger.
When the sun started going down we decided to call it quits, but we have 80% of the cab-over gutted. We're heading back over there this weekend to finish the process, and then we basically have to wait for the area to dry out before we can start fixing it. The labor fees to get it fixed professionally are outrageous so we're doing it all ourselves. Chad and I are actually looking forward to working on it because it will be our first big project together and I know the results of our efforts will be beyond rewarding. My step-dad is a mechanic and has experience working on motorhomes, so that of course helps too! I know where there's a will there's a way, so I know this issue can be resolved, it's just going to take lots and lots of patience.

Poor Bonnie.

BONNIE + BONNAROO

2012-02-04T14:00:00.001-05:00

Oh my goodness, It's been WAY too long since I've last posted! There's a reason for this though, I've recently started a new job which also gave me a new shift. I'm still a Pharmacy Technician, but the job is so completely different from my previous one, so I've been stressed lately. My body has also been a bit off balance lately because my daily routine has changed drastically. I worked 3:30 p.m to midnight Monday through Friday for about 3 1/2 years (since 2008), and then I was working 11:30 a.m to 8:00 p.m from about September of last year to December. I'm now working 8:00 a.m to 4:30 p.m, which has been a huge change in my life... You'd think I'd have so much more time now to focus on things I love (such as my blog) but honestly, I just come home and do art and relax, or workout. I've been so tired after work. I know that my body will adjust in time, I just wish it would happen a little faster!

I have some great exciting news though! I'm going to be taking Bonnie out on her first big trip this June! Where are we going you may be wondering? Chad, Kaileigh (my best friend), her boyfriend Micah, and I are heading down to Manchester, TN for Bonnaroo! In case you aren't familiar with Bonnarroo, it's a huge music festival lasting from Thursday, June 7th to Sunday, June 10th on a huge 700-acre farm about an hour southeast of Nashville. The first time I went to Bonnaroo was in 2007, and I must say that it was one of the best times of my life. It's four straight days full of good, happy people from all around the country, great food, fun activities, and lots of dancing around and singing your heart out to some really great music. It's just a really feel-good time!

(source)

Due to either stress, money, my job, or a line-up I wasn't too thrilled about, I haven't been to the festival for the past five years. I'm due to let loose and have a good time though, so no matter what the line-up is this year I know it will be a much needed vacation. Working my butt off in a cubicle has consumed my life for the past 4 years, and it's time for a break!

The main thing I'm going to be focusing the rest of this winter and spring on is Bonnie, so you'll be seeing a lot more of her on my blog which will be lots of fun! I'm excited to share my progress with you guys, and I can't wait to talk about the trip plans as they evolve, and I'll be taking so many photos of us at the festival so I look forward to that!

If you know of any travel bloggers who have a motorhome, or if you know of any good craft ideas I could use in my motorhome, please share them with me! I'd be THRILLED.

Are you going to Bonnaroo this year?

If you are, we should totally meet up, it would be such a good time!

P.S- The wonderful Kate over at Wake Up, Lovely featured me in a new Talent Show post, of you'd like to check it out! ♥

2012 Calendars

2012-01-22T11:49:00.000-05:00

Have you bought your 2012 calendar yet? I haven't... last year I bought one from Paper Sparrow which was a great addition to my... cubicle. I love adding handmade crafts and art from other Etsy sellers to my cubicle because it's inspiring and makes my cubicle a bit of a happier place. (as happy as a cubicle can get).
I'm on the hunt for a new calendar and thought I'd post some of my favorites in case you're searching for one too!

Here's the 2012 one from Paper Sparrow:

This letterpress calendar from Fontlove is really nifty

I'm really loving this photography mini calendar from Lor and Her World

(mini calendars are my favorite)

This calendar from Liz Carver is stunning

(My favorite wheel is the one for May)

This cross stitch letterpress calendar from Pistachio Press is adorable

This lunar calendar from Kin of Kin is too neat

This printable calendar from Little Toad is really cute too!

Movie Inspiration

2012-01-21T19:57:00.002-05:00

As cliché as it may sound, the cinematography in Edward Scissorhands is genius. This is one of the neatest looking movies I've ever seen... it brings me so much inspiration. If I could bundle up my style into a ball and throw it into any movie, it would be this one. Does that make any sense? haha

What I'm trying to say is this movie suits my style to a T.

I just recently saw this movie for the first time a couple months ago (I know! Where have I been, right?) and I'm still wondering why it took so long for me to finally watch it. I just got done watching it and was pausing it on scenes I loved just so I could stare. I found myself pausing it... a lot.

It's just a stunning movie.

I have no choice but to make art after posting these pictures so off I go.

What movies inspire you?

P.S- I want to make a new series of paintings. A collection of about eight. I need some ideas! If you have some you could throw my way I'd really appreciate it. ♥

Coupon Code

2012-01-13T19:52:00.000-05:00

Hello, hello... happy Friday the 13th! I'm just making a little announcement that now through next Friday, January 20, you can receive 30% off all art in my shop with coupon code: WIDGET30.

This coupon code isn't valid for the books, it's only valid for artwork (which includes the Moleskines). It's a new year so I've been cleaning up my art room and am trying to get rid of my older art, to make room for my new art. There's no obligation at all to buy anything, I'm just popping in to let you guys know!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

GIVEAWAY WINNER!

2012-01-13T19:05:00.000-05:00

(from The Weaving Cat)

Congrats!

Isn't it weird that it's Friday the 13th and the winner is number 13? I think so...

I'll be contacting you soon, Sarah!

Thanks so much to everyone who entered and for all your sweet words <3

It was so much fun reading all of your comments!

Books For Sale!

2012-01-06T20:51:00.000-05:00

Do you see any books in this pile that may tickle your fancy?

If so, you're in luck because they're all for sale in my shop!

These are all such wonderful books but I tend to get art and craft books whenever I see them, and after skimming through them and bookmarking favorite pages, they end up sitting on the bookshelf for far too long.

I could have brought these to the book store to sell them, but I know the bloggers and friends in this community will really appreciate them.

I hope you find one you like!

A Giveaway/ Win a Painting!

2012-01-05T18:31:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd start the new year off with a little giveaway!

Enter to win a 7x5 1/2" watercolor painting titled Wanderlust by yours truly.

All you need to do to enter is leave a comment telling me what your dream vacation is. I'd love to hear where you'd go and what you would want to do there!

You can earn extra entries by:

♥ Tweeting about this giveaway (my twitter name is @cupkayart)

♥ Following my blog if you aren't already

♥ Blogging about the giveaway

♥ Posting about the giveaway on Tumblr

Please leave a separate comment for each thing you do.

Have a great weekend!

P.S- The winner will be announced next Friday, January 13th.

My First DIY: Stationary!

2012-01-05T09:30:00.001-05:00

1.) Some vintage comics or magazines

(if you don't have any, you can get them for super cheap at used book stores)

2.) Scrapbook paper (only about 59 cents a sheet)

3.) An extra card and envelope set you have (I have so many unused stationary boxes in my craft room)

4.) Glue stick

5.) Scissors

6.) A pen

Scan your favorite piece of scrapbook paper

Trace the outside of your original card onto your scanned sheet of scrapbook paper

Cut along the lines you drew around the card and fold the piece of paper in half. You now have your card! You can set that aside for now.

Unfold your original envelope.

Find a comic book (or magazine) page you love.

Use the envelope as your template, like you used the card, then trace and cut out.

Fold the paper exactly the way the original envelope is folded, and glue the side flaps to the bottom flap.

You now have your envelope!

Now the super fun part... time to decorate!

For decorating I used paper doilies, various stamps, embroidery thread and stickers!

I think custom stationary is so fun to make! You could even make a pack of 10 cards & envelopes, wrap them in a cellophane bag and give it as a gift!

I hope you enjoyed my first DIY, I'd love to know if you did it :)

I Bought a New Modcloth Dress...

2012-01-03T10:20:00.001-05:00

... So i made a little gif of me wearing it.

Can this qualify as my first outfit post?

edit: I deleted the gif... I found it quite obnoxious.

Zine Update: Get Out a Skeleton

2012-01-03T00:01:00.001-05:00

Earlier in 2011 I came up with an idea for a zine I wanted to make called 'Get Out a Skeleton', in which I completely forgot about until Lynsey asked me about the progress of it yesterday! For those of you who don't know about this little project or may have forgotten about it, I'm taking your anonymously posted secrets (skeletons in your closet) and incorporating them into a zine in which I will draw corresponding illustrations.

So far there have been eleven submissions and I have nine pages left to fill in the zine.

If you have a long kept secret, or any secret, that you'd like to free yourself from I'd love to add it to my zine.

You can type a secret into the Formspring widget in the left sidebar, or you can visit the page here.

Once the project is complete, I will be selling it in my shop.

Thanks guys!

Book Review: Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

2012-01-02T09:30:00.000-05:00

For those of you who may not know who Neil Gaiman, he is most popularly known as the author behind the comic book series The Sandman, and the story of Coraline.
Coraline is the first movie Chad and I went to see together, and a movie in which I didn't even know was based on a book. I had never even heard of Neil Gaiman before that night... which apparently was a huge shock to him and his friends since he's a very popular writer in the fantasy, horror and science fiction worlds. I've never been big into science fiction or fantasy until this past few months in which I've read The Night Circus, the entire Inheritance Cycle series, Wizards First Rule, Stardust, Neverwhere, and currently American Gods.
After reading the Inheritance Cycle series and gushing about how much I loved it to Chad, he suggested I read some of the works of Neil Gaiman. To be honest, at first I passed it up because the movie MirrorMask kind of turned me off to him (I thought it was super boring, and wasn't a fan of the art style). After hearing Chad go on and on about Gaiman, I decided to finally check out one of his books and I choose Neverwhere.

Never have I read a book where being whisked away into another world was so magical. The book itself is comprised of two worlds, London Above and London Below. London Above is full of the mundane ordinary trials of life, whereas London Below is full of wonder and terror. Within that world we follow Richard Mayhew as he struggles to understand the land within the sewers and tries to help a girl with extraordinary abilities, a girl who can open up any door to any world. There are assassins who see the girl as a threat and whom Richard Mayhew must save her from, while trying to find his own way back to London Above.
This book has such great visuals of London Below. It's a place of filth, terrifying creatures, and hidden places. It's a place nobody would choose to live, but it's also a place I got sucked into and didn't want to leave. I don't want to give too much way by saying anything else, but if you're a fan of contemporary fantasy and/or horror, I highly suggest you give this book a read.

Here's a little summary of the plot from Wikipedia:
"Richard Mayhew, a Scot living in London, encounters an injured girl named Door on the street one night. Despite his fiancée's protests he decides to help her, but that unfortunately also means that he suddenly ceases to exist for regular people and becomes real only to the denizens of 'London Below', whose inhabitants are generally invisible and non-existent to the people of 'London Above'. He loses his house, his job and nearly his mind as he travels London Below in an attempt to make sense out of it all, find a way back, and help Door survive as she is hunted down by hired assassins."

If you read, or have read this book, let me know what you think!

My First Drawing of the Year

2012-01-01T20:49:00.000-05:00

HEY, HEY...

2012-01-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

New Years Resolutions!

2011-12-31T15:54:00.002-05:00

It's time for new years resolutions! I can already tell that 2012 is going to be a wonderful year for me... I start my new job on January 9th and I'm newly engaged! I'm going to be experiencing a ton of new things this upcoming year, and I really look forward to sharing them all with you. I already know that this coming year is going to be full of wedding planning, and meeting new people. My main focus is finding healthy balances for my mind, body and soul. I want to try new things, overcome fears, and take care of myself.

I'm hoping my new years resolutions will really help me become an overall happier and healthier person.

Mind: try new things that challenge me

♥ Learn how to play Twinkle Twinkle Little Star on my violin - I don't know how to play a single instrument, so on top of learning one of the most difficult instruments, it's also my first instrument, so this is sure to be very challenging. It will really test my self control, patience, persistence and determination. I haven't really pushed myself to any limits lately, and it's time to start.

♥ Sew a dress - Sewing is something I picked up a little over a year ago that I've found out I really enjoy. I've only sewn zipper pouches and little pillows, the zipper pouches in which were very successful. I had a lot of fun making them, so I want to sew something new. Something that I've never sewn, but wanted to for awhile now... a dress. I have a dressmaking book and most of the supplies needed to make one and it's about time I get to it!

♥ Join a creative group - Whether it's a writers group or art class, I want to get involved in a social activity that involves something I love. This is probably going to be the most challenging goal for me, personally. I have quite a bit of social anxiety and because of it, I've missed out on a lot of great opportunities and experiences. Chad is an amazing writer and graduated college with a double major in Creative Writing and Philosophy. He used to get involved in writers meet-ups and other various groups, but due to working a night shift for the past two years we haven't really been able to join anything. I've always enjoyed writing, and it's always brought me much joy. With our shift at our new job, we'll be getting off work at 4:30 so there will be no excuse for not joining a creative class. I haven't been writing as much as I'd like and it's something I really want to get back into.

Body: live a healthy lifestyle, and in return, feel happier

♥ Exercise five days a week - We have a gym at our complex's clubhouse which I want to take advantage of. It's free and open 24 hours so it's about time to take care of my body. Even if I only walk a couple miles a day, I want to make exercise a daily part of my life. It will make me feel so much more energized and happier.

♥ Consume less sweets - I'd be lying if I said I didn't eat sweets every single day. Sugary treats make me happy while eating them, but make me feel crumby afterwards. I don't want to cut out sweets entirely because I really love them, I know it's not healthy to eat them every day though. Sweets will be little rewards for accomplishments, or for celebrations like parties.

Soul incorporate things I truly love into my daily life

♥ Collaborate with Chad and make one zine a month - Chad is a writer and I do art. What a perfect team for zine making. We've thought of so many ideas for zines but haven't followed through with any yet. We'd love to open a little shop online and sell a monthly zine. It's something that is thrilling for both of us. Currently, I'm finishing up Love and A Cup of Hot Chocolate. It's also a goal that will make our relationship even more colorful and special.

♥ Draw something every day - There's no doubt about it, art feeds my soul. When I'm doing art, I'm so happy. Making art isn't something I can force myself to do if I'm not feeling it... so my goal isn't to make a masterpiece everyday, it's just to create something. I'm going to get into the rhythm of incorporating art into my daily life. Not only will this resolution make me happier, but it will also make me a better artist. Practice makes perfect.

♥ Revamp my motorhome - My motorhome is one of the most special purchase's I've ever made. I plan on spending a lot of my time this Spring fixing her up, so that this summer I can go on lots of camping trips with Chad, and my friends and family. I often daydream of it parked in the woods, and Chad and I enjoying good conversation in chairs outside of it, by the campfire, while making smores. We then will go to bed and enjoy a pancake breakfast in the morning. That will happen this summer, and you better believe I'll be sharing it all on this blog.

So there we have it, my main new years resolutions! Aside from the goals above, I also plan on focusing much more attention to my blog. I have lots of plans for my little corner, which include outfit posts, book reviews, interviews and other miscellaneous features. I can't wait for this coming year, it's going to truly be so much fun. I also have lots of wedding panning to make, in which I can barely contain my excitement!

Happy New Years Eve everyone!

Have a wonderful night, and please be safe ♥

Favorite New Art / at the moment

2011-12-29T17:05:00.000-05:00

I've been really slacking with my art lately, but it's something I don't feel that guilty about... art can't be forced. If I'm not "feeling it" then I'm just not. Today however is a new day and I'm feeling so inspired! I've been browsing through some of my favorites artists new stuff, which I haven't done in awhile, and I'm so motivated now. It's crazy how much looking at beautiful art can inspire a person to pick up the pencil and paper. One minute, I won't be in the mood to do anything creative, and just a few minutes later after browsing through some new art from my favorite artists I'm feeling extremely fueled. I'm so, so thankful for the internet. I wish there were more gallery shows around where I live... most are huge shows at the Cincinnati Art Museum. I'm more into the independent low-key artists.
Oh eclectic cities, why must you be so far away?

Here's some art I've recently stumbled upon, that I really dig. Yes, dig.

I'm loving Devon Smith's art more and more each day it seems. I've loved her style for quite awhile now but lately I'm becoming almost obsessed with it.

(source)

I love this piece by Alyssa Nassner. The colors are so stunning... I need this for my motorhome!

Her work is so beautiful, I highly recommend you check her out.

(source)

This illustration by Danny Brito is so magical.

(have you noticed that I love using the word magical, yet?)

The green against the neutral colors, and with that gray dress is so wonderful.

It still blows my mind how he does all of his art with colored pencils...

(source)

Jen Moreno is another artist I'm loving more and more each day.

She has such a unique style... I really look forward to new art by her each week.

I'd have to say that my one of my favorite artists at the tippy-top of my mental favorite artist list right now, is Mel Stringer.

Her style is so extremely simple but incredibly unique. It's definitely grown on me...

I'm a big fan of WIP (work in progress) videos and she's recently posted a couple on her blog if you'd like to check them out. They're fun! She actually has a WIP video of the piece above :)

After making this post, I'm super pumped to go work on some art of my own. Maybe I'll share it tomorrow? eh?

I hope you enjoy your evening! I just bought four dresses from Modcloth so I'm off to a good start ;)

Wedding Inspiration

2011-12-29T12:11:00.001-05:00

Yes, indeed... it's only four days ago that I got engaged and I'm already scoping the internet and wedding magazines, high and low, to find wedding inspiration for our magical day. We are tossing two wedding themes around for the big day and it's so difficult to decide which one to go with! I'd share them with you but I kind of want to keep it on the down-low until the day is closer.

Although the theme is yet to be decided 100%, I know the overall look and feel I want our day have. Both themes kind of intertwine and the gist of the details could apply to both themes. On with the sharing of inspiration!

I can't begin to tell you how much I love these tights for bridesmaids... so stunning.

Honestly this entire wedding is just so whimsical.

I also really love the idea of mismatched bridesmaid dresses!

I love the idea of different colored suspenders for the groomsmen!

I love the "for happy tears" idea inside of theses wedding programs!

I'm loving this couples look.

That black and white stripes on the bouquet are so wonderful.

(all images via Green Wedding Shoes)

Happy Holidays / I'M ENGAGED!

2011-12-26T14:07:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday, I know I did. It was absolutely magical... Something really special happened to me this past weekend and I'm so excited to share that... I'M ENGAGED. Yes, indeed I am getting married to my soul mate... Mr. Chad Brinker.
I really want to share how my weekend went and how the proposal happened, it was too special. Christmas eve we went to my families Christmas festivities in which I received a violin from my uncle Shawn. I'd be lying if I said I didn't cry a little. Having my own violin was at the tippy top of my list this year, but I was extremely surprised when I opened it because:
1.) He builds ukeleles so I knew it had to be one. (obviously I was wrong)
and 2.) I thought for sure that Chad would have given me one if it was anybody... I was way wrong.
After almost passing out from excitement from my new instrument I got to thinking.... If my uncle bought me a violin, then what on earth did Chad buy? I had absolutely no idea that it would be an engagement ring...
I know Chad very, very well, and I thought for sure he would propose on our anniversary (not necessary this upcoming one) in February.

A few weeks ago we were relaxing, and watching a bit of tv (or a movie, I don't remember) in which there was a snow globe. I made a joke along the lines of "I'd love a snow globe, with a ring in it!" [I often hint about him proposing, pure fun of course]
I was opening my gifts Christmas morning and one of them was an entire memory album he made filled with poems, drawings, and pictures from the past three years along with notes he's been saving since we've been together. I instantly started bawling.... Not many men would do something so crafty and sweet... It was truly special. After sobbing while looking through the book, he handed me my second present...

It was a snow globe he handmade out of a candle jar, with eggshells for snow (apparently crushed up eggshells make the best snow for snow globes because they last forever) and in the center of the globe... an oversized, humongous diamond ring. He then says, "You said you wanted a snow globe with a ring in it, so I made you one." I was staring at it, admiring the craft and thinking about all the creativity he dished out in the past two presents. As I'm staring at the snow globe he sneaks up next to me, gets down on one knee, shows me the real ring, and asks, "Will you marry me?"

The whole scenario caught me completely off guard and was so extremely special, I really find it hard to put into words how magical those few moments were. It's something I will remember forever. My heart is so full.

xo-
soon to be Kayla Brinker

New Art!

2011-12-18T21:51:00.000-05:00

My First Blythe-Frankie / Before & After

2011-12-13T10:26:00.002-05:00

I can't wait to get another and do this all again, I know exactly how I want her to look!

I know Frankie isn't as superb as some of the Blythe's done by professionals but I had so much fun, and that's what matters :)

I hope you all have a great week!

P.S- The pictures look a bit icky because I took these before I got my new camera.
I'll do an updated post with better quality pictures soon.

Blythe!

2011-12-11T21:19:00.001-05:00

I don't mention this very much (read: at all) but I am a huge fan of Blythe dolls. My obsession started about two years ago while browsing Flickr. I had no idea that these even existed, and instantly fell in love. A doll for adults... how perfect? I begged for one all year for Christmas and I felt so lucky when I was gifted a Neo Blythe by Chad for Christmas. I was absolutely ecstatic, I think I almost cried. They can be quite pricey, so I honesty didn't think I would get one... I planned on saving up and buying one for myself, because not having one wasn't an option.

I've always envied those who had actual Blythe collections, and I plan to have my own one day. For now I'll keep drooling over them online.

This one is so precious, I love the eye chips.

Can you even stand the little hearts on those cheeks?!

(source)

Everything about this doll is perfect.

These are all so stunning!

I'm staring at this, trying to pick a favorite and I just can't...

I love the eyelids on this girl, but what I love most is the hair and lips! So beautiful.

I'm going to take pictures of the Blythe I customized (her name is Frankie) and share the before and after soon ;)

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

P.S- I gave my blog a lil' makeover, you like?!

Currently Loving

2011-12-07T10:21:00.000-05:00

This fish tank is so unique! Honestly though, it makes me a bit nervous. I have terrible balance and tend to be pretty clumsy...

I love love love this dress from Modcloth.

These chocolate peanut butter cupcakes look so delicious! I've been trying to cut out the sugar lately and looking at cupcakes is just dangerous.

If you'd like to try your hand at these here is the recipe.

Tell me how they turn out if you make them!

This crochet skull is so nifty!

The violin, I'm really wanting to learn the violin you guys. It's at the tippy-top of my Christmas list!

Do any of you know how to play?

This Blythe collection, so envious! From what I can see, the girl at the very far end is my favorite. I'd like to see her close up!

The Night Circus. I've mentioned this book what feels like a zillion times, but I just can't help it. It's so, so magical!

These nails are so simple, but beautiful.

Other neat links:

♥ The International Princess Project

♥ If you're handmaking gifts this holiday season (great idea) you should check out these 12 DIY gifts on ♥ Sugar & Cloth!

♥ 25 handmade gifts under five dollars

♥ I'm loving these DIY votives!

♥ Gnomus the traveling gnome (I love this idea! I did something similar when I was younger)

I hope you're having a great week!

What I Wish I Wore

2011-12-06T00:46:00.000-05:00

It would probably look pretty obnoxious if I wore everything in this collage at once, but I'd do it anyway. If I could wear black and white stripes every day, I would... and I'd probably wear that dress everyday if I owned it too.

1. Cocktail dress via Bonanza (it comes in red too)

2. Stripe cardigan/ Dolce & Gabbana via Farfetch

3. Coat / Vivienne Westwood via Liberty

4. Leggings via Farfetch

5. H&M belt (I'm such a sucker for bow belts!)

6. Skull necklace via Max&Chloe

7. Leg warmers via Wet Seal

8. Boots via Dressrail

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

I'm going to start making daily outfit posts part of the blog this coming year, there are so many outfits I own that I'd love to share!

New Art!

2011-11-28T22:44:00.002-05:00

Trying something new, making art with my mechanical pencil.

I haven't done anything with just a pencil in forever, and I forgot how fun it is.

You'll probably be seeing a lot more art like this soon :)

I hope you all had a great weekend!

It's Small Business Saturday!

2011-11-26T12:13:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful day, an entire day dedicated to small businesses! If you've had your eye on an Etsy shop lately, then today's the day you should pop on over there because most likely they'll be offering a coupon code for this special day! I know I'll be doing lots of Christmas shopping this year on Etsy. I've decided to shop handmade for Christmas, it's ridiculous not to in my opinion. Everything you can find in a major retail store you can find in small shops online, and most likely it will be made with quality materials, more creativity, and you'll be getting much more bang for your buck.

These people put their hearts and souls into these businesses, and most of them rely on their shop as their sole source of income. A lot of shops have been slow lately because of the economy, and because of that the business owners are really struggling. A lot of them rely on the holidays to make up for their possible lack of sales throughout the year, and on top of that, they have to shop for loved ones too for the holidays. If you have gift ideas that you plan on buying at big retail shops this weekend, maybe you should stay inside where it's warm, enjoy a cup of coffee or hot cocoa and shop handmade!

Here are a few of my favorite small businesses offering up deals for this holiday season ♥

The Dainty Squid is offering 15% off your purchase with coupon code: BLKFRI

For Strange Women is have a couple deals going on right now, her shop is so divine.

Sleepy King is offering 15% off + Free domestic shipping (!) with coupon code: GIVETHANKS

Bug Under Glass is offering 15% off with coupon code: BLACKBUG

Wool & Water is offering 25% off (!) with promo code: SNOWGLOBE

Flapper Doodle is offering 20% off orders of $10+ with coupon code: CATSMEOW

Hive & Honey is offering 15% off with coupon code: SMALLBIZ

If you have a shop that's having a little sale, or heck, just a shop in general... please leave a link to it in the comments so I can check it out! If you don't have an Etsy shop, but have a couple favorites that are holding a sale today feel free to share a link to them as well!

P.S- I'm offering 15% off in my shop until Tuesday with coupon code HORRAYCUPKAY !!

2011-11-24T11:44:00.001-05:00

I know there are many, many things I've left out but I'm so thankful for everyone and everything in my life. I'm truly lucky to have the life I do.

I hope you all enjoy this day, and don't forget to take time away from the delicious food and think about everything you're thankful for. We take so much for granted.

Here's my post from last Thanksgiving :)

ESTY SHOP IS NOW OPEN!

2011-11-21T09:30:00.001-05:00

Click here (or the link below my header) if you'd like to visit!

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

xo!

P.S- Coupon is good until next Tuesday / November 29th

Gnome Love

2011-11-20T18:55:00.000-05:00

New large Moleskine!

xo!

Love and A Cup of Hot Chocolate

2011-11-19T14:09:00.001-05:00

A zine!

coming soon to my shop!

It's going to be unbearably cute, I promise you.

I'm so excited about this...

xo!

ZIP!

2011-11-15T22:25:00.000-05:00

ZIIIING!

Moleskines!

2011-11-15T18:09:00.001-05:00

Adding art to some Moleskine's for the shop!

...and making a huge mess

Two down, four to go!

Drawing on Moleskine's is so much fun, have you ever done it?

If not you should try it!

EXCITING NEWS!

2011-11-14T10:00:00.012-05:00

I am so so excited to finally have a date for my shop opening! I have everything listed and would open it now, but I'm waiting for my packaging and shipping supplies to come in the mail, and there's a few things I need to finish up. This week is going to be jam packed with prepping for the opening.
I'm currently working on handmade business cards, package labels and shop policies...
I'm actually really enjoying it!

I hope you have a great day :)

xo

My Workspace / A Little Tour

2011-11-12T17:39:00.000-05:00

About a month or so ago I decided to move out of my art studio. I just wasn't utilizing the space like I should have been, and I couldn't imagine me making enough money with my art at the moment to make up for the rent. Once I get my Etsy all set up (I've been working on it guys, I promise!) and if I make enough sales to pay for a space I just may get another... but for now, my little craftroom in our home is the perfect place for me. No complaints!

I have yet to share with you what my workspace looks like since I've moved all my stuff back in, and I think it's about time!

This is my desk, where all the magic happens. You will always find me listening to Pandora while I work. Lately I've mainly been listening to the MGMT station, it keeps my energy high.

This is my little packing and shipping corner...

Stocking Stuffers!

2011-11-12T09:00:00.003-05:00

I love giving little gifts... giving tiny things in little packages always make me so happy.

Christmas is fast approaching and will be here before we know it, and it's time to start the Christmas shopping! I love finding little gifts to put in stockings, almost as much as I love giving the "actual" gifts. I've been searching on Etsy for nifty little stocking stuffers and I thought I'd share with you some things I think would be fun to put in a stocking!

These Little Uggles from Jae Bird

There are so many of these little monsters to choose from in her shop. There are also smaller ones called Little Ugglettes, which are just as (if not more) adorable!

These pretty felted soaps from So Fino!

I want to buy these for myself, but I think they just may be too pretty to use!

This little pocket bear from GabrieleFelt

Here's the description she has under the photo:

"Loves the smell of the first rain in Spring, splashing water and singing happy songs."

(You know that's cute.)

I'm loving these cute earrings from Botny.

I've always wished I was an earring type of gal, but I feel like earrings look... odd on me.

If you know someone who frequently wears earrings, I really think you take a peak at this shop!

In case you haven't noticed, I kind of have a thing for sewn handmade monsters...

I have no words for how cute of a present I think this would be for a friend.

"Eliza the pink monster" from Monsters Etc

These tiny fridge Magnets from Uncommon are adorable!

This Kitten Pals pins from The Black Apple are prefect

I love finding little things like these on Etsy...

I think all of the above would be great stocking stuffers (along with lots of candy!)

What's your favorite thing to put in stockings?

Currently Loving!

2011-11-04T20:40:00.001-04:00

These beautiful satchels from Zatchels

I'm totally drooling over this one too!

Cake batter martini's... you know these sound absolutely delicious! These would be so fun for a birthday party, or just hanging out...

This sweet, sweet motorhome...

which was found on this lovely blog.

The Inheritance Cycle series by Christopher Paolini.

I have never in my life been into fantasy books until I went out on a whim and read Eragon about two months ago. Immediately after finishing it, I read Eldest, and then Brisingr. I've been completely sucked into this magical series. It's a weird coincidence that I happen to get into the series just in time for the fourth book 'Inheritance', which is being released on Tuesday!

Since I finished Brisingr, I decided to try out a different, more modern, fantasy book to hold me over until Inheritance is released so chose The Night Circus because of it's great reviews...

Words can't explain how much I'm loving this book, so I'm just going to tell you that you should really considering picking up a copy.

These awesome moccasins from Darlingtonia.

These clever teacups/coffee mugs via Amazon.

I have a feeling that every time I'd use these cups I'd drink my coffee twice as fast.

This super unique necklace.

This brooch! It belongs on my sweater...

What are you currently loving?

I hope you all have a great weekend :)

Daily Art / The Clown

2011-11-03T15:52:00.000-04:00

Oh geez, I've been slacking on the daily drawings these past few days. Been a busy bee ;)

Here's a clown drawing I did earlier this year... when I started to pick up art again after many, many years:

I think it's crazy how much my style has evolved in such a short time-span!

I thought the drawing above was so great when I first did it and now I'm a bit embarrassed to post it.

I think it's really neat seeing how much I'm progressing though, it's fun to share.

Next year I'll probably be looking back at my new drawings and be embarassed to post those too.

It's all about the journey, though :)

tis fun.

Daily Art (10/30) / The Magician

2011-10-31T12:57:00.000-04:00

I'm having so much creating these circus characters... thank you so much for your supportive words and compliments. They keep me going and help me stay inspired.

Also, I'm on vacation this week, so I plan to have my Etsy shop up and running within this time!

There's lots to be done, so I'm off to work on it :)

P.S-

Daily Art / Contortionist

2011-10-29T17:12:00.000-04:00

Daily Art / Mime

2011-10-29T00:25:00.000-04:00

Daily Art / Cuckoo Clock

2011-10-27T10:12:00.000-04:00

Inspired by the book I'm currently reading, The Night Circus, by Erin Morgenstern.

I will definitely be doing a book review on the blog about this once I finish it. It's so magical.

Hello, There / Daily Art

2011-10-26T10:20:00.001-04:00

I'm going to start doing a little daily art feature. I will also be posting it on my art Tumblr. :)

Here's the first!

(watercolor, Micron pens, and white Sakura Gelly Roll pen on 6x4” postcard )

New Workspace / New Art

2011-10-24T10:28:00.000-04:00

I recently made a big decision of doing away with my art studio. Truth is, I wasn't there much. It was an amazing tool that I didn't take full advantage of. It was the "idea" of having my own actual art studio that got me so excited about it, but having the feeling of owning my studio while not using it wasn't worth the amount I was paying for it monthly. It was quite a hard decision, but I knew it was the right thing to do. Before I moved into it, there was a line of people yearning to work in there, but since I was first in line I got it... I know that one of those people will benefit from the studio much more than I did.

I'm honestly much more productive when I'm doing art in our home. It's cozy, I have quick access to food and a bathroom, and it doesn't cost any extra money to work here. I have my whole workspace set up in our office next to Chad's workspace and I'm absolutely loving it. I no longer have the guilt of doing my art at home rather than in an expensive art studio that's right down the street.

Yesterday Chad and I went to an art store called Plaza that I've been so anxious to go to for the past few months. He surprised me by buying me lots and LOTS of art supplies. I'm on vacation starting next week and I can't wait to start working on inventory to stock my Esty shop!

Here's a couple paintings I did over the weekend. They're done in a different style than I usually do... I'm having a lot of fun playing around with different styles while developing my own :)

Also, last night I made a tumblr specifically for my art. If you'd like to follow me/check it out you can find it here!

I hope you had a wonderful weekend!

Did you do anything fun?

My Stamps!

2011-10-23T13:19:00.000-04:00

It's about time I share with you guys my stamp collection so far! I've been kind of putting this off just because there are so many... which is why this post is quite photo-heavy ;) A few weeks ago my uncle gave me my first stamps. We work together and he saw this post and happened to know a guy who worked in the "mail opening" department who also collected neat stamps he found... so he put some in an envelope and gifted them to me! I was so happy.

That weekend Chad and I headed to his parents for dinner, where they gave me a big container of stamps to root through and choose ones I wanted to keep. I was over the moon!

We took the box home and spent about a week rooting through them and organizing the ones I kept, and here they are!

The first page of my stamp album is filled with butterfly and flower stamps.

Here are a few of my favorites from that page:

I only found one moth stamp in the whole box, so I'm on the hunt for more...

Check out those eyes peeping through the stamps, haha

They belong to this little fella. How neat?!

Out of all the plant stamps I picked out, this was the only cactus one.

I wouldn't mind some more cactus stamps either!

The entire second page is full of more plant stamps, and a few animal ones :)

The sword fish and shark stamp is my favorite. You can't tell from the picture, but the fish are textured.

If you run your finger over the top, you can feel all the little ridges that make up the illustration.

It's the little things like that, that I love the most.

The third page contains all of the stamps that have a color series.

I think these are so pretty to look at.

At the top of that same page are all the stamps that have ships in them. It was a lot fun searching for the ship stamps. All of the ships are so detailed. Here's my favorite one:

The fourth page holds all of the space related stamps and the airplanes.

This page is probably my favorite.

The top row has all of the metallic space stamps. These are really fun to look at under a light.

Here's one of them.

I wish you could see the metallic part of it, but it was pretty difficult to catch that on camera... boo.

The fifth page is halfway full of random stamps I thought were neat that don't belong in any of the above mentioned categories. The two stamps below are probably my favorites in the whole album. They aren't supposed to belong together, but I thought it was odd/funny how the astronaut and man are making the same pose... (I'm very easily amused)

In the pockets inside of the album covers are little cellophane envelopes filled with stamps I enjoy but don't have room for them yet...

This stamp collecting thing is so much fun! I would have never thought I would be a stamp collector, yet here I am... making a blog post completely dedicated to my growing stamp collection... haha.

I can't wait to go to a stamp auction next time one is in town. I'll be sure to share lots of pictures of that day :)

I hope you're all having a great weekend.

I've been working on some new art (which will be posted tomorrow), and right now Chad and I are headed off to Plaza. I've been dying to go there for the past few months!

NEW ART

2011-10-14T10:10:00.001-04:00

HAPPY FRIDAY!

Vintage Dresses (drawing)

2011-10-05T10:10:00.000-04:00

I've been really into Mad Men lately, so I had the urge to draw some vintage clothing.

I'm thinking about making these into stickers or mini prints :)

New Girl: Space Style

2011-10-04T10:21:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday! I've been really slacking around here lately because I've been working on my art a lot.

I'm planning on opening my Etsy shop soon for the holidays, and I want have some things outside of my studio for the Christmas show at the art gallery. There is lots and lots of work to do!

I just wanted to pop in to show you a new piece I did last week :)

I recently sold the painting of the green-haired girl in the top left corner of the first picture to miss Jamie (!!!), but the other two are still for sale starting at $50 USD... if you're interested just shoot me an email at:

cupkay.art [at!] gmail.com.

I've been working on a post detailing my prices for different sizes of painting and services, and I plan to finish that up tonight!

Enjoy your day!

Where the Magic (Art) Happens / My Art Studio

2011-09-27T11:00:00.002-04:00

I realized that I've had my studio for several months now and have yet to share with you all pictures of the inside of my building! It's such a nifty place... so inspiring. I'm so thankful my little town has a place like this for artists. It's pretty rare...

In case it isn't obvious, here's what you see as soon as you walk into the building

Upstairs has quite a bit more studios, but there were a lot of people working during the time of these pictures and I didn't want to disturb anyone... so I'll have to share photos of the upstairs soon!

Here's my studio from the inside of the building.

So, SO bare! I REALLY need to get frames for my art and a sign for the door to make it pretty.

I plan on installing shelves on that wall to the right to display my art for purchase! (hopefully by xmas)

Above is the art gallery (obviously)... isn't it a shame I could hang my art up for as long as I want for the public to see/buy and I'm not?! What am I thinking? This is changing very soon. It's time to get my act together!

Downstairs is the fiber arts, sewing etc.

Isn't it adorable down there?! It's so cozy. I would love to snuggle up on that couch and paint :)

I hope you enjoyed this peak into the building where my art is made!

Where are you most inspired?

P.S- If you haven't seen the inside of my actual studio you can see it here.
They're pretty old photos, and my studio looks quite a bit different now, so I'll have to share newer photos very soon.

New Painting!

2011-09-26T11:33:00.000-04:00

I had so much fun with my first semi big piece, so I did another yesterday!

Sorry if I'm boring you guys with all this art, it's just this is my life and what I've been up to, so that's what I'm going to blog about!

I was given a bunch of stamps recently as well, that I can't wait to share with you guys.

I just filled up my first stock book and will be showing it on the blog very soon... stamps are so much more interesting than I would have ever thought!

Chad and I have been trying our hands at making a few of them into necklaces using epoxy. We're still waiting for them to dry (it takes 72 hours!), but once they're dry I'll show you! I plan on adding them to my Etsy shop when I open it!

enjoy your day

More Recent Art: Campers!

2011-09-22T15:00:00.001-04:00

I know, weird huh? No girls?! I got temporarily burnt out on drawing my little pug-nosed girls, and thought it was about time to bust out something new.

What's better to draw than vintage campers?

Nothing.

I think I'm going to add more detail to the last two, they just seem kind of blan to me...

the first one is definitely my favorite :)

xo!

Recent Art: New Girls

2011-09-21T12:00:00.001-04:00

Aside from my new work schedule throwing me off-balance, another reason I've been slacking around here is because I've been spending almost all of my free time working on art. Going to Renegade was a huge wake-up call, time to get junk done.

I suppose opening an Etsy shop would help out a bit, eh?

I'm waiting until I build up a lot of work to stock it with. I want it to be superb, with lots of goodies to choose from.

For now, if you're interested in purchasing anything I post on my blog, you can just drop me an email at : cupkay.art [at!] gmail.com ♥♥

Renegade Goodies

2011-09-20T00:07:00.000-04:00

Here are the goodies I bought at Renegade this year :) I said I was going to post this way sooner but I have a new shift at work (after being on the same one for 3 1/2 years) and I'm trying to get used to this new schedule!

Once I saw this little fellow, I knew there was no way I'd be leaving that booth without adopting him.

I bought him from Lets Be Friends <3

I feel totally terrible considering this is one of my favorite purchases, but I forget the name of the artists who did this stunning screenprint. I went to so many booths and have a plethora of business cards in my basket I carried around. If you know who made this please let me know so I can give them credit, and also purchase from them again! Eep, so embarrassing...

I bought this stunning bat print from Berkley Illustration.

He has so many animals you can choose from, but I just had to have the bat. It's so me.

These adorable pins and that cupcake print was bought from the talented Robby Davis.

This screenprinted beauty was bought from Fugscreens Studios.

I don't even need to explain why I bought this. Instant purchase.

My best friend Kaileigh, who went with me, bought me this lovely screenprint at the end of the last day... I loved it so much but couldn't bring myself to buy it for whatever lame reason, so when she surprised me with it I was over the moon!

If you know of the artist, please let me know so I can share! A lot of work goes into these and they deserve to be shared :)

If you went to Renegade this year please share with me what you bought, or some of your favorite booths, I'd love to hear!

It's the Little Things

2011-09-13T10:14:00.000-04:00

I asked my mom what her favorite flower was:

So true.

What's your favorite flower?

I'm in the mood to paint flowers :)

P.S - I'll be back later tonight to share my goodies from Renegade, enjoy your day!

Renegade: Chicago!

2011-09-12T23:27:00.001-04:00

This past weekend was one of the funnest weekends I've ever had. I haven't been to Chicago for six years, and on top of getting to finally go visit again, I got to spend the time with my best friend, find the cutest little town ever (Wicker Park), and go to the perfect art fair :)

I'm so glad I went this year! It was one of my new years resolutions and I now get to mark that off my list.

These windmills + blaring Modest Mouse = perfection.

There was the most beautiful art all over the walls.

We went to a taco bar (which neither of us had heard of) and it was so delicious and cute.

To top off the amazing-ness of the place, they played Modest Mouse while we ate dinner... In case you don't know, Modest Mouse makes everything perfect.

I rode the metro for the first time :)

... and had my first Italian Soda (Orange flavor) which was perfect.

While most everyone enjoyed cold beers and sandwiches for lunch at a local cafe, I decided to go with chocolate chip pancakes and a nice cold milk, because I'm really seven years old.

Going back home was sad, but soon enough a full moon came out and seeing the moonlight reflecting off those windmills made me so happy.

I can't wait for next year, I just might have to open a little booth of my own, eh?

I'm going to share the goodies I bought tomorrow, for now... art!

Did any of you go to Renegade this year?!

Dear Lemon Lima

2011-09-09T19:06:00.000-04:00

For quite some time the movie Dear Lemon Lima has been recommended to me by Netflix, but I hadn't checked it out because the description didn't fancy me much. After seeing it under movie recommendations for weeks, I decided to finally check it out and I was far from disappointed. It's probably one of the cutest movies I've ever seen...

I'm very much into visually stimulating movies, movies that I enjoy more for the mood they give off rather than the storyline. This movie gives off a feeling of innocence and happiness, and the entire time I was watching it I felt like I was thirteen again.

It's very much a frilly, girly movie but Chad enjoyed the movie as much as I did, because the innocence of adolescence is something that can be appreciated by anyone.

Here's the movie description from the movies website

You may think it sounds a bit silly, I did at first... but give it a chance!

If you enjoy art and independent movies then there's a high chance you'll appreciate this movie :)

Have any of you already seen this movie?

If so, what did you think?

P.S - Are any of you going to Renegade in Chicago this weekend?!

I'm going with my best friend, Kaileigh, and I've never been so I'm beyond excited!

P.S.S- Thanks for all your sweet comments on my previous post, you all make me so happy ♥♥♥

Work In Progress! + a Video

2011-09-08T11:00:00.001-04:00

I had a large response to my previous "thought process while doing art" post, and since it was so much fun I decided to do another :)
This is my first "big" piece, unlike my other paintings, and I'm definitely going to be doing many, many more.

I started out with a completely random sketch, and I cut the corner of a piece of paper nearby to trace around to form the background.

I thought it would be fun to do a little time lapse video of me doing the skin so here it is!

(song: Beach Side Property - Modest Mouse)

After the skin was finished, I put a flat coat of light green over all of her hair...

... I then started adding the shadows around her face to show the depth of her hair, or else it would have looked like her hair was growing out of her face... haha

I then added the burnt orange color to her bow/headband. Whenever I see orange and green together I think of Nickelodeon f.y.i

And then the magical (and my favorite) part, line-work!

The pen can achieve so much that paint cant... in my opinion.

I don't try very hard to make the lines straight, as you can see. I think it gives the overall piece a lot more character when the lines aren't perfect. Also, it's hair... pin straight hair isn't very realistic.. not that this hair is, but anyway...

Chad kept calling her "Peppa Mint" because of her dull minty hair, so I thought I'd add something to make it pop, and what better color to use than yellow? I was going to leave just her bangs bright to make her more unique...

...but it turned out looking very mis-matchy, so I added the yellow to her whole head.

To finalize the piece, I added pops of blue to her hair because the green and yellow just wasn't funky enough. I also added more freckles and darkened the areas under her eyes. I added some shading to her cheeks and made her lips more red because they were blending into her skin tone too much.

The background was a lot of fun.

All the black triangles were orange before I made them black, but it was way to boring so I had to pump it up a bit. After I made random triangles black, I still felt like it needed more, so I added the lines to the orange triangles, and then dots around the black ones.

I added some tiny scallops around three of the orange triangles which was the final thing I did to painting.

... and WA-LA!

P.S- Would you enjoy seeing more of these? :)

Stamps, Stamps, Stamps!

2011-09-06T11:00:00.000-04:00

Sunday when we were at Chad's parents house after the fireworks, we somehow stumbled upon a very long conversation about stamp collecting since they've been collecting for the past eleven years. I spent an hour or two rummaging through their stamp albums and boxes of stamps they'd won at auctions. They taught me the ins and outs of stamp collecting (well, everything that could fit into a couple hours) ...and something that I would have thought is "boring" is actually extremely fascinating.
There are so many stamps out there, I mean, hundreds and hundreds of thousands! I had no idea that the world of stamps and stamp collecting was so vast and much more complicated than one would think. They have some of the neatest stamps, my favorites were the holographic one's with space shuttles, planets, and astronauts on them. Looking at those under a light blew my mind. They're similar to these:

There's so much detail on such small stamps!

These weren't at their house, they were found here (a super neat stamp website)

If I saw these in person, I'd most likely steal them.

They were showing me their most valuable stamps, and explaining the history behind them. Chad's mom actually has the first stamp that Great Britain has ever printed! They also showed me a bunch of stamps with misprints, which were so neat! I think it would be so fun to win a huge box of stamps and spends weeks at my desk with a magnifying glass inspecting and researching them one by one.

I know you may think I've been living under a rock after what I'm about to say, but I had no idea that there was so much art involved with stamps. Some of the art on those fellas are just mind blowing, so so neat.
I told them that this is something I never thought I would have an interest in, but I'm willing to take it seriously and start collecting. Not only would it be fun, but it's also an investment (especially with all the talk about doing away with the postal service, which better not happen)... and something I could pass onto my future children. They said I can come over whenever I'd like to learn the basics for starting my own collection, and the next time there's a stamp auction in the area, I can go with them :) I'm definitely going to be taking them up on that deal!

For now, they started me out on three stamps. I found them while rummaging through a small box of stamps. They're currently snug in a small envelope until I get some stamp sleeves and an album to put them in :)

I originally saw the two panda stamps in an album of theirs, and freaked because I loved them so much. So when I saw the exact stamps in that box, I freaked even more... and since they already had them I got to take them home, eeek!

By the way, I totally feel like an old lady right now getting so exciting about stamp collecting, but it really is neat...

Here are some I found online that I reeeally love:

(source)

p.s- super cute blog.

(source)

(source)

(source) / (source) / (source) / (source)

(source)

Aren't those too neat?! I linked each one with it's original source, but most are from this Tumblr.

If you'd like to see more, then you should really check out the other ones on there :)

I can't wait to start going to auctions, and sharing new stamps with you guys that I find.

xoxo

Happy Labor Day!

2011-09-05T17:26:00.000-04:00

So yesterday we went to Chad's aunts for the WEBN fireworks, and once again they seised to disappoint, after all, it's the largest fireworks display in the country...

Honestly, it's not just the fireworks that I look forward to every year, but the view! The view of Cincinnati is so breathtaking, and literally the best seat in the house. It's been pretty hot the past two years, but this year it was only 70ish, and although it was cloudy, and there was a breif downpour, the weather was so perfect. We just relaxed on the balcony and enjoyed great conversation with great company while eating strawberries, pastries, and Cosmos. It was really nice.

Chad's aunt travels a lot and she was talking about so many beautiful places in America that I must see on my trip in Bonnie, and I got so excited. I love hearing stories of peoples travels. They make any day, a great one.

Welp, I'm off to work on some art!

I've been working on my first semi-big piece, and I can't wait to share it with you all!

I really like it :)

I hope you're all enjoying your Labor Day!

P.S- My best friend, Kaileigh, and I are going to Chicago this weekend for the Renegade Craft Fair!

Are any of you going?!

so excited.

It's Been Way too Long!

2011-08-31T14:02:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness, I can't believe it's been an entire week since I've posted anything! For those of you who are new followers to Cupkay, this is not a regular occurrence for me... I've just been very busy this past week is. My shift is 3:30-midnight Monday through Friday, so aside from weekends I only have from the time I wake up to about 1:30 to get stuff done, and lately I've been using that time to work on commissioned work :)

It's been bumming me out lately not having much time to work on my personal art, so I've been drawing at work a lot. I bring my watercolor paper, pens and pencils to work and then when I get home I paint what I've drawn. It's probably not the wisest thing to be doing while at my job, but if I don't incorporate my personal art into my everyday life I'll start to lose it... haha.

This past weekend, I went and visited Bonnie (my motorhome) to take measurements of the windows, fridge, furniture etc. so I can start the revamp! She needs lots of work but I couldn't be more excited about taking on that hefty task. If any of you know a good motorhome blog/website for ideas and inspiration, please share! I know they're out there but I'm surprisingly having a difficult time finding any good ones!

I'll leave you guys with a piece I did last night :)

P.S- In case you're wondering where "Where To Wednesday" is.. well, I had my alarm clock set for 9:30 this morning so I could work on the post, and it decided to not go off, causing me to not wake up until 1:00pm! I can't even believe it. This shift takes a real toll on my body. I'll be posting the feature tomorrow!

P.S.S- Can you even believe it's the last day of August?! I mean, Christmas is just under 4 months away!

Where To Wednesday // Stop 3

2011-08-24T13:29:00.001-04:00

(photo1 / photo 2)

In my first Where To Wednesday post, Zoe mentioned Nova Scotia and how I should go there since I'm visiting Maine. I checked it out, and geezil petes! What an absolutely stunning place! I've heard of Nova Scotia before, but I've never seen pictures of it or known anybody that has been there. I don't know how I've lived my whole life without knowing about this place! I've been searching and searching online for the perfect little spot to visit, and man... it's been hard.

There are so many amazing places with breathtaking views.

I can't imagine standing in one spot and looking in one direction and seeing an endless ocean, and then turning around and seeing miles and miles of forests. That is just so extreme! I decided on Cape Breton Island. It seems to have the most beautiful views, very popular trails, and last but definitely not least... Whale Watching tours!

I'm not going to lie, I was watching a video of whales during a tour, and I got teary eyed. Whales are such beautiful creatures and to see them in person would be indescribable.

Chad said he wants to live in Nova Scotia and doesn't see how anyplace can compete with it's beauty so why not just stay. haha. I agree with him about the beauty, I don't see how anything can beat the beauty of this place, but there are so many other places to see that hold different types of beauty, and I couldn't pass those up!

Every Wednesday I get emotional when making these posts. I have such a huge desire to see the world, and I'm incredibly passionate about this trip. Learning about these places, and knowing I'm going there brings me so much happiness.

Have you been to Cape Breton Island/ Nova Scotia?

Do you have any suggestions for my next stop?

P.S- Zoe, you're so lucky to live in such a beautiful country...

New Art From the Weekend!

2011-08-22T14:01:00.000-04:00

I did a couple little paintings last night, thought I'd share them with you guys :)

I really enjoyed making these little horned girls, I think I may just make a few more :)

Maybe I'll create a little series, eh?!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

Inspiring 1960's Ads

2011-08-18T14:03:00.001-04:00

I don't understand why ads nowadays can't be as cool as the ones in the 1960's...

here are a few of my favorites that I scanned in :)

The use of color is so inspiring, they seem so labor intensive and definitely have an element of "weirdness", and I love that.

We've digressed so much, oh how I wish I lived in the 1960's just to see ads such as these on a daily basis. I'd be constantly inspired.

Which one is your favorite?

For me, the Batmask and Scotch tape are basically tied, but if I had to choose, I'd have to pick the Scotch tape ad. The use of colors is stunning!

P.S- I really don't like Dr. Pepper... just thought I'd throw that out there

Where To Wednesday // Stop 2

2011-08-17T13:03:00.001-04:00

The fact that Maine has been dubbed the nickname "Vacationland" gets me so excited! (though it sounds a little corny) Something about Maine has always intrigued me, maybe it's the brick roads, or the fact that it's surrounded by breathtaking views of the ocean. I'm so curious of what it's like considering I surprisingly don't know one person who has been there! I imagine it having tons of trees and beaches and friendly (and well-off) people. I'm not a material kind of girl, and have never really cared about money, but I've heard Portland is a very expensive place to live, and I'm a bit curious of the lifestyles the residents live. Supposedly it's full of lots of art galleries, boutiques and little coffee shops, eek.

I'm most excited about the nature aspects of my trips, however. I'm looking so forward to all the different environments I'll be in while traveling. I can't wait to see the mountains, forests, bodies of water, and deserts, aaahh.

I didn't choose the city of Portland for any specific reason, I only chose it because it's the main city I really ever hear about when hearing about Maine. It's also the biggest city in the state.

You know what they say, "Go big, or go home", and I'm surely not going home!

It seems so charming, elegant, and romantic... I can't wait.

Portland, ME also provides a clear (though long) route to my third stop which I'll be announcing next week! I can't wait to share it with you guys!

Have you ever been to Maine?

if so

Do you have any recommendations of something to do around the Portland area?

There are lots of attractions listed online, but I would rather hear suggestions directly from people who have been there :)

If you have any suggestions of places to check out in the northeast, please share!

xoxo

My Thought Process While Doing Art

2011-08-15T11:00:00.001-04:00

I thought it would be fun to share a little glimpse of my creative process for a piece I just did :)

I start with a pencil sketch (don't have a picture for that, boo) and then I outline it in various sizes of Micron pens. I ususally use size 03 for the major outline, 01 for the details, and 005 for the small details such as the hair, eyelashes, lips and wrinkles on the clothes.

Next, I fill in the skin with watercolor. I use various shades of brown mixed with lots of white until I achieve my desired skin tone. I mix in reds and blues as well to give it a little more oomph.

After the base for the skin is done, I almost always do the hair. I couldn't decide what color I wanted this girls hair, so I just decided to use them all :) Since her hair is so intense and bright, I knew I needed her clothes to be more toned down and neutral so I went ahead and painted her skirt brown.

I didn't want her clothes to be too neutral so I opted for a toned down red jacket... not too bright, but just enough color. There's no way I could make the outfit in only shades of brown. I love color too much.

Next I added the pops of yellow to the jacket, because the red by itself was too boring for me.

I then made her shirt gray, added green to the skirt, and filled in the small white spaces. I also added small details like the red on her knuckles and some shadows...

Finally, I filled in her stockigs, and did some tweaking here and there to finalize the piece.

As you can see in the few photos at the top, there was a tips box... I decided to do without that and removed it from the painting. It's not uncommon for me to remove things that are in the original sketch... as it comes together I think that some things are just not meant to be.

I hope you enjoyed taking a peak at my thought process while doing art!

I also hope you all had a good weekend :)

xoxo

Currently Loving:

2011-08-12T13:38:00.000-04:00

I've been finding so many neat things on Etsy lately, and thought I'd to share some of them with you :)

First is this teeny pencil brooch via amyawalters , I'd wear it everyday. There's just something so charming about tiny things, don't you agree?

I'm not a big necklace person, but these lockets via verabel are too neat.

I'd make an exception for these ;)

I'm in love with this print by thoughtbubble.

I could never pass up a print with Modest Mouse lyrics on it ♥

I've had my eye on these pencils from knotandbow for quite some time, I think they'd be a cute "just thinking of you" gift.

I spotted this photograph by TirilHauan on Etsy's front page this morning and had to include it in this post. One of the most beautiful photographs I've ever seen.

I need these little critters from sleepking on my couch, now.

I originally found out about this artist, naoshi, in my Pink Attitude book (blogged about here) and I'm so fascinated. All of her art is made from sand, the method is called Sunae in Japanese.

I can't even imagine how time consuming that is!

These tiny (only about 2 inches tall) needle felt animals from violetpie are such eye candy.

I want every creature in her shop to add to my desk at work

I love these card from mollyjoon's shop.

Another great "thinking of you" gift. I'm such a sucker for giving little things like this.

I hope you enjoyed some of my favorite little things :)

What are you currently loving?

xoxo

P.S- Happy Friday! I'm pretty bummed the weather has been perfect all week while having to be at work everyday with no windows :( and it's supposed to rain all weekend... oh well, I'll make it work!
Do you have any fun plans this weekend?

Where To Wednesday // Stop 1: New Feature!

2011-08-10T14:01:00.000-04:00

I'd like to introduce this new feature to the blog, Where To, inspired by Katia's comment on my Feedback post. I'm not going to lie, I've been feeling pretty guilty for buying a motorhome and barely talking about my plans with it on here! I mean, it's a pretty huge purchase (literally!) I added a new section in the left sidebar titled "Bonnie" and I'll also be making this a consistent weekly feature.

So what's this feature all about?
I will be documenting each planned destination in the order we plan to go on them each week. I haven't started the trip planning because it's honestly all so overwhelming! Where do we even start?! I think that picking a place every week will be a perfect pace in which I'll be comfortable with planning the trip. You guys will basically get to see my trip planning happening live, and I'd love (and look forward to) hearing suggestions you have for some destinations! You can help me plan... I mean that's only fair right? Considering you're (virtually) coming with us! It'll be fun!

Once the destinations are completely planned out, I'm going to gather all of these feature posts and make them into a book from Blurb.

I know, I know... we're planning a trip around the country and our first stop is Canada. Kind of misleading, isn't it? haha We're staying on the Canada side opposed to New York because

1.) I've never been to Canada

2.) I hear there is much more to do on the Canada side

3.) New York City is going to be one of our stops coming down from Maine

4.) I want to stay with Bonnie at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park!

(yes, I'm seven years old.)

What more beautiful of a place could our first stop be than Niagra Falls?! It looks breathtaking. Looking at pictures of it make me more than excited... I can't imagine how I'll feel when I'm actually standing next to it! I have all kinds of butterflies in my stomach right now. Making this post/ feature is making me feel the reality of the situation, it's going to be such a blast!

Have any of you been to Niagra Falls?

What did you think of it?

Do you have any suggestions of things to do around the area that don't involve shopping?

(I want this trip to be full of exploring and site-seeing, buying gadgets and clothes aren't a priority)

xoxo

A New Look for CUPKAY!

2011-08-08T12:32:00.001-04:00

Hey guys, just popping in to announce the new blog design! I've literally worked on it for multiple hours this past week. I've added many new things such as an about me, a music section, contact section, noteworthy artists, resources I find helpful, tips on staying sane at a job not meant for you, and a section for my motorhome, Bonnie.

Take a look around, I hope you enjoy it! As for now, I'm off to work on a portrait for a special lil' lady and her boyfriend.

Have a happy Monday ♥

A Peak Into My Day

2011-08-06T22:44:00.000-04:00

Hello, hello. I went to my studio this afternoon and thought I'd show you guys a little peak at a painting I'm working on! :)

First of all, you see that tripod set up next to my desk? I was so excited to make a video with my new camera of me working on the piece below (from scratch) to show you my creative process. That was my main goal of going there today... and well, I started filming it and about twenty minutes into it, I checked the camera to make sure all was good and it stopped filming! Apparently my camera was full and couldn't hold anymore :( boo. I'm going to make a new video as soon as I can though!

As for tomorrow, Chad's mom gave us this super snazzy vintage camera she had back in the day and she's letting us use it, so assuming everything goes well, we're going to shoot some photos.

Stay tuned for those! We're also cleaning out my motorhome (as long as it's not a miserably hot!) We're taking her on her first vacation at the end of October! More details on that soon (so excited)

I hope you're having a great weekend!

xoxo

ALSO.

New blog design launching Monday morning! Eeeep, can't wait!

I'm going to start taking a more "professional" approach with Cupkay. I have so many things planned for this little corner!

Why, Hello!

2011-08-04T11:16:00.000-04:00

Hey guys! First off, thank you so much for the great and honest feedback! Because of it, I've come up with so many ideas for this little corner. I've been busy lately re-evaluting my life, and have so many fun things planned for my blog so stay tuned! I feel like my little blog has been abandoned this week, but aside from working on my redesign, I've been doing commissioned work for a few people (which is a blast!), planning an upcoming [and much needed] vacation, and working on my personal art. It doesn't seem like a lot, but working forty hours a week leaves me little time to do everything else I need to get done, which is why a main focus in my life right now is time management.

Everything will be back to normal, and much more exciting, very soon though! Bare with me guys ♥

In the mean time, if you're looking for a little motivation and inspiration, I highly suggest you take a look at this blog. You will not be disappointed ;)

xoxo

Feedback!

2011-08-01T13:34:00.002-04:00

HELLO, happy Monday!

I'm working on a complete blog overhaul for Cupkay and I would love it if you would offer some advice/suggestions of what you'd like to see different about my little corner.

I've been really working on building my small business and I'm taking this matter very, very seriously.

My blog is the heart of my business and I need honest thoughts about how I can make it a more enjoyable experience for my readers, after all without you this blog would be pointless! I started Cupkay about a year and three months ago and it started out as a personal way for me to document my life and inspiration but as I've grown and decided to follow the path of entrepreneurship, I want to take a more professional approach with my blog.

What would you like to see more of?

(ex: pictures of me, my art, videos, my artistic process etc)

What features would you like to see?

(ex: featured artists, interviews, weekly favorites etc.)

Is there anything you're curious about that I could feature in a F.A.Q page?

Would you be interested in giveaways?

Would you like to see a new blog layout, something more fun?

What do you like/dislike about my blog right now?

You don't have to answer all of those questions, it's just a few ideas.

Any input you provide would be so very appreciated. Without feedback, I won't truly know what my readers would enjoy, and I want this to be a fun place!

I'm starting a business, not just continuing an average lifestyle blog...

I want to hear your advice, even if it's brutal. I will not get upset, I promise you... and I do not hold grudges. I'm asking for pure honesty :)

If you don't feel comfortable posting your suggestion(s), feel free to post anonymously :)

Thanks so much

xoxo

p.s- Another idea; What is it about your favorite blogs that keeps you going back daily? What do you love seeing?

Good Afternoon!

2011-07-28T13:26:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I was given the opportunity to take the day off work, so I did a bunch of art in Illustrator including the cup of coffee above. I've been a coffee addict lately!

My hairdresser, Di, sent me a few pictures this morning of my artwork in action at her salon!

This is the first time I've ever officially sold my artwork, so it's such an exciting time for me, and although it's no gallery or anything it's still something I'm so proud of! Apparently my zipper pouches have been quite the hit, and I only have five left, woo! I need to make some more :)

I have a super secret project/service I'll be offering as soon as I finish the prototypes and I can't wait to share it with you guys! If all goes well, I'll be opening a booth at Applefest this September to sell the items, so excited! I think you will really enjoy the secret goodies... at least I'm hoping so considering they're the soul of my business plan!

xoxo

The Apartment Tour (Finally!)

2011-07-25T11:00:00.001-04:00

Even though this post is excessively late considering we moved here on Valentines Day... I promised you guys I'd do it and I keep my promises :) Better late than never right?!

Dax Riggs record / vintage purse gifted by a family friend / antique ladies pistol from Savannah, GA / Smashing Pumpkins Discography

A few of our favorite books / a statue gifted to me from my dad / Mirror from Chad (a birthday present)

Vintage bug chair found at an antique store (my favorite thrifted purchase!) / Coffee plaque from grandparents / my Mac with stickers by Amber Seegmiller

Magazines Chad is published in / a mini d.i.y I found on Delightfully Tacky / lots of movies... Chad is a movie-addict. The left shelves are full of "happy movies", and the right are "dark movies".
May I just add that I really dislike Family Guy?

I hope you enjoyed the peek into our abode!

xoxo

Sir Shriek & Mister Jack

2011-07-23T20:38:00.000-04:00

I got a new camera today!

It's the Canon Rebel T3, and I must admit that I'm head over heels in love with it! My Nikon P90 doesn't even come close to the beauty of this new one. Also, this is my first DSLR, eeee! Right when I got home I snapped/uploaded 70-something photos from it and every single one is crystal clear :)

Here's a few pictures of my kitten-sons ♥

Jack is really super awkward about getting his photo taken. I took about fifteen pictures of him and had to delete all but three because of his shyness. It's kind of cute, but I'm hoping he gets used to the camera because he'll be seeing it a lot more!

xoxo

P.S- Monday I'll finally be posting our apartment tour on here, finally right?! Sheesh Kayla...

So stay tuned! :)

My First Portrait!

2011-07-22T13:56:00.000-04:00

A little gift I made in Illustrator for Kate :)

xoxo

HAPPY FRIDAY!

My Corporate Sanity

2011-07-21T12:49:00.001-04:00

I did a drawing an hour yesterday and I was so proud of myself for following through with it, but unfortunately my scanner is reeeally bad. I'm going to take every drawing I did, and redo it in Illustrator to share with you!

The pictures aren't too exciting (such as this coffee cup) but hey, it's my life, and the work week isn't too thrilling...

Good news though. I'm inspired now more than ever to start building up my "small army" and get going with this self-employent journey. I've been soaking up an abundance of entrepreneurship information, and I've known for a very long time that this is the life I want to make for myself. I'm just not a "corporate America" type of gal... and honestly I'm extremely unhappy with my current work situation. I'm going to make it work for me though, and allow it to inspire me to change my life. I'm so excited!

I love art... I feel like it's a natural gift that I was born to do... I've been drawing for as long as I can remember and it brings me so much joy. I realize that becoming a full-time freelance artist is a lot of hard work but I'm up for the challenge. I've been dipping into the world of Adobe a lot lately, and I really enjoy working in Illustrator, so I've been highly considering offering my services to all of you! Things such as: Etsy banner design, blog banners, business card designs, and vector portraits!

If I start offering these services, would any of you be interested?

(I personally really like the portrait idea, they'd be done in my style of characters)

I realize this may be impossible to answer, considering I've provided basically no examples of my work, but I'm getting the idea out there to see if there's a market for it :)

It's almost Friday!

xoxo

I've Got a Date With the Moon

2011-07-20T13:51:00.000-04:00

I did this sketch last night before bed,

and thought it would be fun to finish it in Illustrator instead of with watercolor :)

Happy Hump Day!

xoxo

Book Recommendation + The Art of Non-Conformity

2011-07-19T13:07:00.000-04:00

I've mentioned this book randomly throughout my blog, but I feel like it's absolutely necessary to make a blog post completely dedicated to it.

If you're not happy with your current job situation, have a dream or two that you're afraid to chase, or yearn to be self-employed, this book is for you. It blows my mind the amount of honest advice and information Chris Guillebeau offers in this compact little package. I've read (and listened to) many inspirational books about making the life you want, but none compare to this one. I could relate with every single page and it's as if the book was written specifically for me.

I can almost guarantee it will change your outlook on society and it's standards, and will make you realize a lot about yourself you may not even know.

He also gives lots of information about how to run a professional blog, and how to build up your "small army". A huge part of his self-employment is running his own (extremely successful) blog here. Chris says he believes in a "Guru-free Philosophy" so it's not a book written by one of those seemingly kooky motivational speakers. He's just a regular guy who gives advice about facing society and living the life you want, based on his own experiences.

He says he purposely made the book very cheap because he's not in it for the money, but rather to genuinely offer help and guidance.

Have you read this book? If so, please tell me your thoughts!

If you haven't read it and would like to, you can purchase it right here.

xoxo

I'm not exaggerating when I say that this book will change your life :)

Strawberries

2011-07-18T00:16:00.000-04:00

Movies Recently Watched: Part 2

2011-07-17T15:26:00.000-04:00

Ever since purchasing a subscription to Netflix, I've been going movie crazy. When it's as hot as it is outside, all I want to do on the weekends is sit inside with some lounging clothes on, do art and watch movies! I kind of feel like a lazy bum, but the on the bright side, since I'm not going anywhere, I'm not spending money. Considering the fact that I just bought a motorhome, it's probably a wise decision to save my cash.

Clicky-click here for Part 1, if you haven't yet checked it out :)

6. The Virgin Suicides

I'm sure many of you have seen this movie (or/and read the book), but if not, I strongly suggest you should. It's about five sisters who are all very sheltered by their over-protective parents... and you can tell by the title of the move what ends up happening. It's a very simple movie, but it's also one of those movies that leaves you really thinking at the end. Was there a deeper meaning, and what is it? It's super good, definitely visually appealing and my type of movie... weird, dark and pretty.

7. Microcosmos

I obviously really enjoy documentaries, and this one surely didn't disappoint. The life of insects is so interesting...it amazes me how smart these little fellas are. The footage in this documentary blows my mind... I kind of felt like an insect myself while watching it. Was that weird to say?

Speaking of insects, the other day at work Chad and I were outside enjoying our lunch when we noticed a beautiful rainbow beetle crawling across the table. The heat index was 120 degrees that day, so assuming the beetle was thirsty and hot, Chad did the cutest thing ever and poured a small bit of water on the table. Man, that little guy scurried right on over and drank that water for literally ten minutes straight. I gave him a blueberry, but he didn't go for that. When he was done drinking, he soaked the right side of his body in the water to cool off for a few minutes, then continued to do so with his left. It was the most precious thing ever. I was afraid to go back inside because I didn't want anyone to kill him.

On our next break, I went back to that table and made sure there was no dead beetle anywhere and nope! I'm guessing he flew away after his nap happily :)

8. Timer

I originally heard about this movie through Kaelah's blog, and when I saw it on Netflix I thought I'd might as well give it a go. It's about a timer that is implanted into the wrist, and once a person gives eye contact to their real "true love" both of their timers go off. The main characters timer has not even started counting down, meaning her true love hasn't chosen to get his/her timer yet. You'll have to watch it to find out what happens :) I'm honestly not that into mainstream romance or romantic comedies, but every once in a while they're not bad. To give an honest review, the whole movie was cute until the end. I thought the ending was absolutely terrible... and after researching, I'm apparently not the only one with this opinion. Chad didn't watch it with me, but after telling him about the movie and complaining about the ending, he offered up a different view of why it may have ended the way it did... which caused me to appreciate the ending a bit more.

9. Helvetica

Another documentary?! hehe. There's not much to explain about this movie... it's simply about the font Helvetica (obviously) and the effect it has on people, the popularity and history of it. It may seem boring to some, but I really enjoyed it. I think the effects that fonts subconsciously have on people is so intriguing. There is way more to them than how pretty they may look. If you're into graphic design/fonts at all I think you should give this movie a go if you haven't already :)

10. Babies

Babies was absolutely adorable. It's yes, another documentary. This movie documents the beginning years of four different babies in different parts of the world. It's amazing seeing the different ways people are raised. Although all four babies are raised completely differently, and in someways controversial, it's all so beautiful.

As I mentioned in Part One, every movie in both of my posts is on Netflix Instant watch, so check a few out, then tell me your thoughts!

xoxo