Fever Breaks

A weekend of photos: snowy Boston

2012-01-22T11:15:00.001-05:00

A trip to see family in Boston. Light fluffy snow, an afternoon at the children's museum and dinner cooked at home. A trip to ikea abd home we go...Much needed explorative fun!

mouthwatering

2012-01-18T22:52:00.000-05:00

(via mouthwatering delights, via that kind of woman, via lyla & blu)

I hope everyone's beginning to this year is an analogy of this delicious scrumptious spread!

colors of the new season

2012-01-05T22:10:00.001-05:00

I shain't call it 'colors of the new year', because its still winter and the next season to arrive will be lovely spring...just have to make it through march first. because after a february in the north, you loathe march. So glad I was born on a friday the 13th in march, in maine! But northern lights did appear once on my birthday...and those colors are reminiscent and similar to the ones appearing in the hues I've got my eye on. catch me adrift in shades of nude, blush, shell, coral, miami coral tangerine, indigo blue, beach & pond, olive greens, ivories, henna, yellow mustard and magenta.

via: emmasdesignblogg / Photo: Marcus Lawett, source Residence

(via: http://elleinterior.se/trendspaning-sa-inreder-vi-2012/)

photo: Stellan Herner

photo: Mikkel Vang via Agent Bauer

photo: andrew wolff via agent bauer

joel rhodi via agent bauer

mociun prints- although no longer producing clothing, the prints speak well

how's 2012 looking: my apt

2012-01-05T16:18:00.000-05:00

kitchen: the art on walls is always rotating, currently all photos by myself and drawings by siena

kitchen: to dress up a chair, I added a burlap bag over the back

bedroom: textiles used to drape over anything/ to hide. new one with pom poms from switzerland

bathroom: curtain is a hamman style towel that doesn't absorb enough water to use as actual towel

bathroom: art is a bull fight announcement poster off a building in Mallorca Spain c. 2003

bathroom: a work in progress (wallpaint) but hong kong butterfly dresses up a bare bulb

livingroom: the white curtains need a hint of color, perfect to add red to a tie-back

livingroom: to hide the couch I desperately want to replace, I create a warm layered collection

livingroom: on top of a speaker are some funny shoes & a pine branch

livingroom: a rotating gallery of photos I have taken + one by jessi matson of my legs

my bedroom: thrift, handmade, silk and eco (deer) pillows

how is the new year shaping up thus far? pretty good I say! i am not looking back much, merely taking in what's currently in front of me and taking that forward with my goals, hopes and dreams. when I take pictures of my home, I see where I am at better than sitting in my home. I single these scenes out for you to catch a glimpse of my current and forth-going color & pattern trends for the new year.

happy new year to all, may it be everything you want and more

a moment to look back...my first apt in bk

2011-12-30T21:23:00.000-05:00

my first apartment in williamsburg, brooklyn 2006.

photo ©mariah k brinton

happy new year and cheers to new beginnings.

it is always monumental to look back right before the new year begins...

pictured above was my first place of my own. no roommates no boyfriends.

how the years do pass, and how I have grown!

I went from having a laptop and 2 BMX bikes and near nothing else besides clothes and photos

having a desktop, a fixie, a car and a kid.

and all the wonderful assortments that come with a

bigger home, a delightful child

and...

to life and beyond!!

country store

2011-12-28T18:23:00.001-05:00

who doesn't love a country store?

Mt. Vernon Country Store, Mt. Vernon Maine, my hometown.

© mariah k brinton 2005

spindles or rope
buckets of nails
corn when in season
pints of raspberries
homemade whoopie pies
whole milk
really silly crazy decorations, whether in season or not
fishing lures
and always some sort of treasure

I am creating my dream store in my mind...something between brick lane and the barri gothic, placa hippie and good ole new england sensibility with a swedish twist.

2011-12-25T16:39:00.002-05:00

(image via: http://www.lylaandblu.com/#20)

all is well & beautiful here in maine, snow is gently falling and the kid is happy

shoes, oh you kill me...

2011-12-16T21:41:00.002-05:00

nothing like a holiday party to kick off your shoes afterwards on the stairs up to bed...shot in bar harbor, in an old rental during the summer of 2005...

©mariah k brinton 2005

the longer I live...

2011-12-16T21:27:00.000-05:00

some dear friends and me in the summer of 2007 Brooklyn

'The longer I live and the more experience I have of the world, the more convinced I am that, after all, the one thing worth living for — and dying for, if need be — is the opportunity of making some one else more happy and more useful.' — Booker T. Washington."

in the spirit

2011-12-15T12:06:00.000-05:00

a doe a deer

2011-12-14T06:42:00.000-05:00

(source: concept2012 design team)

DEER PRINTED FABRIC

WE HAVE MADE THIS HEART WITH LOVE...

MID-NOVEMBER THIS FABRIC IS FOR SALE IN VARIOUS SHOPS.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT :

WWW.ONSZELF.NL

A local holiday

2011-12-14T06:12:00.001-05:00

Happy holidays! Ever wonder how you could better your community ? Your state or city? You don't have to volunteer (although that would be very cool), you can use the holidays as a time to shop and speak with your dollars. I love and support local. (Buy Local campaign!) And given the fact that I have a few more things to get (stocking stuffers), I will be going all local for the last weekend before Christmas. If you had forgotten to purchase on- line before today, chances are you are really pushing your luck for it to arrive in- time. We as a country already stimulated the online shopping world by about $1.4 billion more than last year. Let's take those hard earned bucks and spread some christmas love right in your town.

Portland, Maine:

Ferdinand 243 Congress St Munjoy Hill. Letterpress, silkscreen shirts, quirky and stylish vintage clothing and accessories, its a fun shop! looking for your kid to learn to brush their teeth? get the kids t-shirt of the huge tooth and toothbrush. Or buy a beautiful letterpress card and some earrings for yourself & a t-shirt for your dude. Hula Hoops too! open 11am-6pm everyday until christmas.

Mexicali Blues 10 Moulton St in the Old Port. open 9am- 10pm on weekends. Hippy crazy and colorful! I love the black and white mukluks for $12 and the paper stars for $9. Worldly instruments and all sorts of other things. hacky sack anyone? great to teach a child to juggle with...

Treehouse Toys Exchange St in Old Port. I love this toystore! I always find a great present or toy. Local handmade logs made from scrap wood, dolls, games, dress up, you name it.

Longfellow Book store Longfellow Square, Arts District. A fiercely independent bookstore, loads of Maine authors and a great kids section, cards and magazines. Its my fav shop. 'Sex Drugs and Blueberries' by Crash Barry for example...

Blanche & Mimi 184 Middle Street. @Exchange St. A delightful and stylish home store with clothing and blankets for darling little babies. Somewhere between Dwell Studio style and antique/french provencial. Always a spot for a gift.

I also suggest:

Portland General Store, mostly just avail online. Fabulous scents of perfume and body care like Wood, Tobacco, Moss, Cardamom.
Find: 16 Free St. the jewelry selection is great, esp the pieces that are geometric and brass.
Ponomo Jewelry: amazing re-purposed antique pieces. a bit pricey, but gorgeous.

Eat: you will get hungry!

Aurora Provisions, 64 Pine St West End. gourmet grocery and breakfast/lunch fare, treats and sweets, coffee and Harney & Sons tea. Home wares and candles as little gifts too. They carry very large boxes of stick matches I have my eye on. Wine and Beer too. Don't forget a handful of the gold pinecone hazelnut choc treats. I adore this spot. I had their lunch tart and soup, it was perfect.

Pai Men Miyake: 188 State Street. 100 Noodles. Noodle bar and other delights. Rich pork and chicken ramen in large earthenware bowls. yes.

daily interior inspiration

2011-12-13T22:11:00.002-05:00

it is color that i crave

Photo dailies: this week

2011-12-12T12:22:00.001-05:00

Last week was packed full of adventure and holiday events. I went through a training on coffee at work, visited Coffee By Design for a Roastery tour, stayed up late making an advent branch, went to Photo-A-Go Go auction, cut a tree Saturday and went all out for holiday shopping on Sunday with the family. Whew!!
It was a very fun week. Enjoy the photos.

advent branch

2011-12-07T22:34:00.001-05:00

...a little late here on the advent tip, but the spirit is here and so I will fill in the blanks and make it a fun three weeks regardless.

I was inspired by this DIY post and went to town n my own diy version as soon as siena lay down to sleep. I used a piece of driftwood, drilled holes in each end and attached twine as the hanging string. I played around with "packages" for the mini gifts, and ended up using cotton squares and tieing up gummy bears inside. she will wake and be so excited! I also got out last years paper calendar for door-opening fun and put that besides the hanging stick. This is all in our kitchen as part of the rotating gallery. Enjoy and happy advent...

Eco and home gift guide

2011-12-06T23:42:00.001-05:00

in light of the holidays, we want a little extra this and that for our homes, our wardrobes and our green conscious...but then we search and look and stand in line and get downright exasperated. Catch my drift? I am only halfway through crafting and gifting for the holidays, and I don't want to buy anything else! But, I decided there are always a couple really unique and eco finds for both your home and wardrobe, here's a list and pics to create some ideas.

Whimsical, these satisfy the needs of a pouf, and delight a child! eco & sustainable too.

toadstool knitted poufs,

(source: vivaterra.com)

or something a little firmer, but sustainable and stylish...Jasper Morrison's Cork stools

(source: shelterpop.com/2009/10/22/cork-stools-the-eco-seat/)

"Three small friends, robustly built, stable, individual in character and lovable in appearance, that's the Cork Family. Whether as side-tables or as stools, the three different brothers benefit from the advantageous properties of the natural material: cork. It is comparatively light, enormously tough and has a pleasant soft feel."

-Jasper Morrison, 2004

Mason Jar pendant lamps, featured on Branch Home made by Pigeon Toe Ceramics in Portland, OR. These lamps are fired in a kiln that is powered by renewable energy. special: $96 for 1, $180 for two

OR feature your snacks and treats in one or all of these lovely bright bamboo bowls:

(source:branchhome.com)

100% organically grown bamboo, non-toxic water based adhesive, natural laquer.

Derived from the cashew nut tree. set of 4/ $56

or these precious homestead candle holders home via ladies and gentleman

handmade in seattle by the couple who runs this design firm... $58 pair

Weck Glass storage jars, not only are they beautiful, but they are worth the investment and protect you and your food from all plasticky ickness. average 6 jars, lids, seals & clamps for $17-$30

(source: weckjars.com)

Loomstate, no-impact garment. Consider locally made, no-impact garments if you can. Not only are they a statement piece, they should become that staple in your wardrobe that has a statement making design!

(source: loomstate.org)

"Loomstate proudly presents its first zero-waste garment through a collaboration with Parsons The New School for Design focused on this cutting-edge approach to sustainability. A very limited quantity was produced.

The result is a timeless dolman sleeve unlined anorak with a hood, pockets, and adjustable ropes, finished with leather details made from factory scraps. The sleeves can be unrolled to full length. This winning design by recent Parsons graduate Andria Crescioni is available exclusively at Loomstate.org and the ROGAN boutique at 330 Bowery NYC. Dry clean. 100% Wool. Made in NYC."

seabags anchor tote, made right here in maine from recycled sails. $105- 180

Portland General Store, super thick body creme, all natural ingredients, made locally in portland maine $13.95

Green clean cleaning service: buy your loved ones a home scrub by a local green cleaning service...peace of mind and non-toxic to your home, loved ones and the environment.

bake or purchase home made treats with all organic & local ingredients... they wrap them in wax paper baggies with bows and cute cards and give them to all your neighbors and friends. What is better than a food gift?

the not-so-eco Wish List

2011-12-06T21:55:00.001-05:00

I have been planning and toying with the idea of making a holiday gift guide this year...and here is part 1. my not-so-eco picks for this year, I am rounding up an eco gift list too! I swear.

The ultimate carry-all tote bag with multiple straps and zippers...Claire Vivier, here & this as an associate wouldn't hurt

A customized iphone case, create an account and download your own photos for just $40! I am planning on doing a barcelona pic I took when I lived there in the summer of 2005...

a box called "cablebox" to hide all my electrical cords with the power strip too! nothing says unsightly more than a mere couple computor cords, internet hookup and 1 extra light plug...oh and the turntables, the speaker and the christmas light's plugs, blech!

a pair of damn good boots, ankle - clarks water row boots or rachel comey

practical: proper new england winter gloves, a bottle of Hudson whiskey, yup!

weekend project: curtain over door

2011-12-04T22:24:00.001-05:00

I got her closer to her room but not quite in it, she is sleeping on the couch, happily hugging piggy and dreaming of ballerinas. When I said goodnight I told her to dream of ballerinas and fun dancing, because one day she will and can dance as much as she likes, and if its a ballerina then that is possible... anything is possible

mounted the curtain in her room, in attempts to hide a second door into the hallway and keep the room warmer. the curtain, rod and mounts came from my father, he cleverly made the wooden mounts so the curtain is off the wall just enough to clear the door. she is not sleeping in her room and I really want her to be by christmas! I will try, not knowing if it will work that soon. But it adds color and drama to the room! I am very happy with the effect

project: siena's room + curtain

2011-12-03T16:44:00.001-05:00

source: island of white via lyla & blue
Siena's room is getting a curtain like this tomorrow. I am very excited to conceal her door, add some colorful fabric and make it cozier.

interior inspiration: in winter we turn inwards

2011-12-03T16:24:00.001-05:00

light & dark grey interior

See more on bolinmagasinet site. photos by Mikkel Adsbol

has anyone else fallen madly for shaker style hooks and a bench like so in their entryway? add the drama in a light-filled way and enter and exit happily.

gorgeous interior inspiration

2011-11-29T21:20:00.001-05:00

this photo from Lyla & Blu (#47 photo set) embodies exactly what I want...in a living room, in a couch. The soft mouse grey velvet, the curves...the pale background color, and the accent of the light's shapes...I even found a 1940's fainting couch on craigslist recently that would fit this criteria perfectly, except it was far away and the couch needed alot of repair, something I want to take on, but have no time to take on...at least not now. click on over to lyla & blu and prepare for some serious visual beauty, saturated in colors, interiors, food, fashion, bodies, and portraits. Along with little treasures of all sorts, its a long stream of images with links in the photos. breath-taking! well curated.
the site I pulled this photo from is Riazzoli, which is a great source of beautiful images of interior design.

To wish upon a Star...

2011-11-29T06:40:00.001-05:00

How to make a star to top your tree or hang just about anywhere in your home. I went outdoors and found dried flowering weeds that are about 5 feet tall and dry to a hardy stick in the winter. they are also very lightweight, making them the perfect material.

You will need:
5 Sticks (wood sticks, flower stems, dried grass, disposable chopsticks...)
String ( twine, bakers string, sewing thread)
Scissors
Your hands

Choose 5 sticks. Lay them out in the pattern of the star on a work surface in front of you.
Cut 5 lengths of string long enough to comfortably wrap around each meeting point and then some...
Wrap and tie each joint, making sure to leave it just the slightest bit loose to allow for the angle the stocks point in.
To ensure that the star remains steady, I made one stick go over another, and then another arm go under another stick. That way it has a "woven" construction to it and looks great too.
Tie all 5 points, trim string, and leave the top point string a bit longer do you can hang it.
Et voila! Now make a wish upon your star.

Textured textile

2011-11-26T16:47:00.001-05:00

I adore this pattern on pictured wee sweater. Llamas, little people holding hands! I could not bring myself to put it down while out rummaging on Saturday. I did put down a wool pilot's cap in place of this. (gasp, mee put down a well made wool item for a child?!) but this clearly won. Siena chose a dress for herself, I looked for teacups, but in the end I gave up on cups. (rummaged for $1.99)

Another photo short

2011-11-26T15:49:00.001-05:00

Happy weekendin' in the country! Hope everyone had a great thanksgiving. I am taking full advantage of these days off and just plain going with the flow and napping too. It's in these moments that I gather myself back together, sit and reflect. I used to have Sundays as the re-grounding day to myself (back when I was single and living in Brooklyn)...Oftentimes it was spent with a close friend, late brunches, coffee, movies and all sorts of conversations...now it includes my lil precious 3 yr old and all the playful messes, adventures and laughter we can stand. I take any moment I can get to sit in my chair with a coffee and a magazine or book. And I wouldn't trade any stages of my life for anything, it's all been golden.

heading out...lucy chadwick

2011-11-26T09:54:00.001-05:00

Lucy Chadwick, film for ZARA by Todd Selby...absolutely inspiring.
I love the bit about concentration and "glossing" over things in your work week.
I stumbled across this video posted on the Cherry Blossom blog, and I am so thankful. She posted about how inspiring other people's lives can be, and I agree. It gives us little reminders of the beauty others find and the solace they create in their (upstate) homes in (possibly) refurbished barns. Sigh, my dream!
Todd Selby is also a huge inspiration in my photo work these days. His videos are so inspiring! such beautiful portraits of the people he is filming in their environments, always accompanied by a great soundtrack.

A day in photos

2011-11-24T15:02:00.001-05:00

Happy thanksgiving to all! It's a day of texture, snow and merriness.

Darling Clementine & chic giveaway & launch party

2011-11-20T19:03:00.001-05:00

here at Feverbreaks, we love local, eco, and creative handmade. This includes, food, art, clothing, home design and decor. This also is centered around children, since I am in the midst of raising a 3 year old. So it is with pleasure that I introduce another lovely eco-mama and her recently launched eco business....Darling Clementine, a Brooklyn based online children's boutique.

atsuyo et akiko

Qui! C'est Chic! Darling Clementine was founded by Lindsay Meyer-Harley, who resides in Brooklyn with her husband Kevin and their precious daughter Juliette. The boutique is a beautiful collection of urban, chic and modern children's ware; in the categories of clothe, bathe and play. I have had the pleasure of knowing Lindsay since long before her role in the eco world came to include a darling child, and it has been a fantastic journey to this point in her life. She has been the editor of the eco blog Urban Branches, which came with great success. Her goals are to achieve an eco-minded and eco-centric existence in this modern corporate age we live in. The balancing act it often entails creates a journey to search out items for our lives without sacrificing darling, quaint and stylishness. "When choosing Darling Clementine's vendors, Lindsay strives to maintain an ethical and social basis. These vendors not only create darling styles, but maintain a humane attitude towards the environment, their community and humanity." Lindsay maintains a blog connected with the Darling Clementine shop, where we can read about her weekly updates and new merchandise. Without further adeau, read on for the interview we conducted and special readers discount code!!

go gently baby

clementine art (also a favorite product my daughter loves)

1.) What is your inspiration for your business? Howdoes your inspiration translate into how you choose products?

My inspiration is my sweet little girl, Juliette.She's such a sweet and tender soul, picking out special things for her is suchfun and it was an easy transition to choosing items for Darling Clementine.

2.) what do you adore about living inBrooklyn? does it affect or increase your eco-mindedness?

While totally cliche, I love the spark, the energy,the noise outside my window (ok, that is annoying sometimes!). I love peoplewatching and watching Juliette interact with this amazing city.

3.) If you had a mood board/naturetable on your wall/table this week, what would it be full of? (maybe you dohave one)

Pinecones! I need to find some to have an artproject afternoon with Juliette. I only have found scented ones so far, andwhoa that was a strong fake cinnamon scent.

4.) what are some of your favoritedaily feeds? (ie: blogs?)

Oh there are so many. I love Bleubird Vintage, Oh Joy, A Cup of Jo and Fever Breaks of course!

5.) what's for lunch/dinner? and didthe season dictate the dish?

Homemade roast vegetable & goat cheese flat breadswith toasted pine nuts.

6.) Speaking of the upcoming holidays, what are somecauses/ movements/ donations or items that are hot on your list?

I always like to "shop for a cause" so ifthat means picking out some Sea Shepard Tees for my little one than I'm happyto do that. I also like supporting small businesses during the holidays. I'llbe shopping locally, at craft markets and on my own shop Darling Clementine,because I love my vendors!

**for all readers, please enjoy 10% off your entire selection at DARLING CLEMENTINE with the special code of: FEVER **

Kevin, Lindsay and Juliette on a stoop

and if you live in New York City: Join lindsay and the eco crew for the Launch Party in Greenpoint Brooklyn.
***Join Darling Clementine + PLAY to celebrate the launch on December 18th. from 4-7pm @ 33 Nassau Ave. Brooklyn NY 11222.***

The event will be a holiday shopping event and a chance to see the products up close (since they are only available online at this time, this is super duper special!).

PLAY is an indoor playspace in Brooklyn and we're so happy to pair up with them to launch Darling Clementine and offer wine, snacks, free gift wrap w/purchase! Also we're going to be raffling some amazing giveaways including product from some of my vendors (there will also be an online raffle for those who aren't able to make it, for details follow us http://www.facebook.com/DarlingClementineShop & @drlngclementine)

PLAY also carries an in house children's clothing line and lots of sweet toys too! Get gifts for all the kids in your life.

This event is open to the public and is child friendly. We will have adult supervision in the playspace so adults can shop as they please, while holding a glass of wine. :)

No need to RSVP, just show up with a smile!

Nog me some alterna Nog

2011-11-20T15:28:00.001-05:00

Tis the season! Healthy alternatives to eggnog. Soy nog! Healthful blended recipes with almond milk! Soy nog lattes! Go ahead, indulge yourself, it's the holidays.

Simple outfit

2011-11-20T15:20:00.001-05:00

I am pleased with this simple outfit. As I feel that I finally have something this sweater can be paired with!
(moto leggings, Gap, u neck body tunic,Gap & JCrew sweater from last winter. Necklace carved bone, ring silver stud from a Brooklyn boutique no longer, courtesy of lindsblis#doulabliss 2007)

the HOLIDAYS...the preparation article número 1

2011-11-17T17:52:00.001-05:00

As thanksgiving rolls in at a quick pace, you all have probably read the New Yorker article 'Talk of the Town - the first served', pg 45, felt some sort of panic and deleted or bookmarked about 100 blog and site holiday guides...? I know I have, and the gift lists are almost complete. Really?! Already? YES!

So, we want to keep our sanity and enjoy the bounty, too. How to accomplish some rrr's and come out laughing with love in our hearts, despite the on-slaught of visitors, relatives, and events. Eco~mama M steps in here with some ideas.
First, think about scent. The seasons have finally changed, and we are indoors a lot more, we have air to refresh! Plus, what's more relaxing, cozy and comforting than some of your favorite scents? I know I head straight for citrus, musk, cinnamon, clove, geranium and honey vanilla in the colder seasons. And it doesn't hurt to add balsam pine pillows/satchels to all your drawers! It's the little reminders of what makes you feel secure, cozy and "home-ey".
Next, you can begin to put pen to paper (well in this case finger to touch screen) of all gift ideas that have scrambled across your brain like prancing deer. Bookmark your favorite sites, feeds, blogs and newsletters. I love looking at all the different styles of curated lists from editor's, bloggers and fellow moms. Make the lists long and grand. Research for a couple days, then, go back and edit the lists heavily. Decide, if you are the crafty type, what you are going to make, and gather your supplies! There are several people I know who craft, hand-make and DIY their way through gifting. Although a huge inspiration and an eco choice, I could very well do the same, but, I do not have the time or energy. I do however choose to support local business, eco products and renerable materials in the shape of clothing and accessorues. And I pick about 5 things to make from supplies I already have. (textiles, beads, thread, embroidery, food).
Next up is food... Oh my all the food to cook! All the gorgeous entertaining ideas, menus, holiday traditions and other people's diets and allergies to consider! Take the time to read food blogs, sites like #epicurious, food&wine, and issues of mags you already have. Think about what you want, whether it be fun and healthy, or slow and traditional or somewhere in between...there's something for everyone. I'd suggest choosing the main, and one side, then building a well rounded array around those two keys.
I am going turkey -free for christmas, but alas I admit I have not settled on a main yet...still reading, considering bison.
And last of all, how to really relax at the end of the day with all this planning, shopping, cooking and most likely working your day job or dealing with the demands of your partner & child/ren...??!! This is where ritual, cozy and warm come into play. Find a ritual, maybe dinner at 6pm everyday, yoga or a run immediately after work, maybe a bath instead of a shower right before bed to really relax you? I am turning to my buddhist for mothers book even more during this time, even if I read 1 paragraph, it helps keep me centered. And we all know the holidays is a time we often fly off the handle, lose hold, eat way off our preferred regimen...etc.

Dear readers, this is where I leave you for now, I will be back with an interview on a new & lovely online shop Darling Clementine, and a couple of my curated gift guides. ciao for now!

~eco-mama m
*photo above of my crafting sessions with daughter this week

A day in photos

2011-11-13T17:51:00.001-05:00

Another glorious Sunday in Maine. Thanks to my sister for coming to spend some quality time. We had some beach time, threw rocks, collected flat rocks for craft projects, went to west end deli for soup n sandwiches, then did a little shopping For some warm winter layering pieces. So important to stay warm in New England! Yeah yeah, wool is itchy n scratchy, but it keeps you warm. So, Eco-mama tip : look for quality wool blends that take the edge off the itch, but still have a high enough percentage of wool to be worth your buck and keep you snug.

Sneak a peek: My home...in details

2011-11-12T06:58:00.001-05:00

Here are a few little details I found inclined to photograph this morning. Most of these scenes are my DIY thoughts coming to life, creating corners, pockets and zones of curated objects. As any interior design does, here it goes in my space. Enjoy! Have a fantastic Saturday and a restful Sunday.

How many can I create

2011-11-09T19:51:00.001-05:00

As my Christmas list nears finalization, I am left with a large question: how many can I make myself? Big question eh ? DIY is so important! Just do it, get thoughtful creative and crafty. Share please, I'd love to hear your ideas. I am wavering between so many different ideas, that it's easy to feel over-whelmed. But I know my heart is in the DIY aspect and the clever and fun closeness it will bring between
My daughter and I is priceless, and not in that commercial kinda way wink wink.

Falls pleasures

2011-11-09T13:35:00.001-05:00

A little fall fun, (via Instagram effects). Hope everyone is enjoying the wacky fall weather! It's awesome here.

handmade pottery

2011-11-05T19:37:00.000-04:00

handmade mugs at the merriconeage waldorf school. I just love these! no handles, beautiful blue colors, and so simple. Each with the child's name on a sweet little shelf. Perfect idea for that rustic loving DIY type friend or relative.

2011-11-05T16:58:00.002-04:00

"Price is firm and life is short so if you're looking to low ball me, flake out on an appointment time or otherwise be a pest, please look elsewhere. Serious buyers welcome. " -craigslist antiques ad

2011-10-29T09:30:00.000-04:00

How does your Brooklyn location affect what you stock up on? (refinery29 for full story)
"I'm right in the middle of about five amazing Brooklyn neighborhoods where, for lack of a better word, 'grown-ups' live. There's not a lot of fixed-gear bikes and ironic mustaches in my neighborhood right now, just people with good jobs and good taste. People want usable, realistically priced furniture that ideally has some importance within the history of design. That's what I try and stock." - Paul Bright of Bright Lyons, 383 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, between Hoyt and Bond streets

roasted

2011-10-27T21:21:00.003-04:00

roasted fall veggies! load em up in a bowl, drizzle no more than 2 tbsp olive oil and salt n pepper, toss. roast on 425˚approx <1 - 1 1/2 hrs pn baking sheet, parchment paper optional but sure makes cleanup a breeze

pumpkin heads

2011-10-27T20:56:00.002-04:00

two little pumpkins sitting on the gate

one moon shone and one cross glowed

I hope everyone is enjoying their fair share of ghoulish festivities and pumpkin carving!! siena and I carved up two tiny pumpkins this evening, it was great fun. Simple, quick and delightful is the way to go, especially when a little one is involved, their attention span is so short my goodness. I enjoyed this very much, we then sat in the dark looking at em for some time. Happy hallows and dia de los muertos!

~your truely
ptl eco-mama m

2011-10-22T21:50:00.000-04:00

leopard

a fall bouquet

2011-10-18T15:28:00.000-04:00

milkweed

fall bouquet

photo dailies: october thus far

2011-10-16T22:09:00.000-04:00

wolf's neck state park ocean front

my bella bambina and I @wolf's neck

grapes at family house

collecting acorns

the morning chickens eager to get out in the lawn

i found two, one big and one small

the little chicken who lays the little eggs

young apple tree planted by family, very tasty despite the worm holes

collected some acorns

scrap wood in old barn

digging out the beets for fall harvest, more apples than beets perhaps...

Dear fall lovers, families and friends,
here in maine we have been enjoying this slightly off-kilter weather, but not without much joy to be in the great outdoors doing all sorts of things. and when it rains, we stay indoors and cook food, draw, paint and read tons of books. Applesauce, kale everything, our first round of soups, lots of warm cider...please enjoy the photos and see you soon, if not in heaps o leaves!

apple of my mouth

2011-10-09T23:05:00.000-04:00

the apple of my eye, the reason why, eyes blue as the sky...thank you indian summer and thank you maine for an uh-mazing sunday in october...with my lil one we picked 10lbs of cortland and macs at hansel's orchard in north yarmouth. driving passed farms and lanes and sea views and tractors...i could have dreamed again and again of that farm we passed with its pristine lawn and old well pump...

its fall chili

2011-10-08T22:22:00.000-04:00

second-to-largest pot

crushed san marzano & cono sur from chili

thyme straight from my porch garden, dried sage too!

the spread topped with avocado

now jump off the couch

and top it all off with a brownie & raspberries

its fall...even if this weekend is 80, we've already turned our heat on twice. Made a large pot of dark turkey meat chili with barley and broccoli, 2 varieties of beans and topped with avocado. Made fudgey brownies and had a great night! repeat for lunch the next day...

a few of my home...

2011-10-06T21:55:00.001-04:00

the dining room table in the living room, designed and built by my father, chair built by him and his brothers, bench and side board bureau antique shops in maine, stokke chair craigslist (cheap!) rug, handme down family piece...

livingroom: sewing machine base $10 yard sale, table top constructed by my father...

dining table centerpiece: milk jar of marbles, wooden candle-holders from the family since...the 80's?!

living room: re-upholstered 1970's chair, wooden stump table craigslist Brooklyn, drum, books, hats, flags various, rug urban outfitters, and a yoga mat...

livingroom: stump side table made by myself, shelf found at mt vernon dump, photograph of betsy from Brooklyn by me...

livingroom: knot by brian rose from the rose wedding, and myself...

hallway/entryway: mags of cooking, agriculture, and the NY Times, photo of Kim by me...

Kitchen: table from family, artwork by family, and photo by myself...

bedroom: grey painted walls, my favorite bedroom hue, LLBEan washable wool blanket, pillows made by me and friends, chair from Junk Brooklyn, lamp from Belgrade antiques...

bedroom: dresser refinished by myself, lamp from family, mirrors from antique shops/ikea wardrobe, birch found in woods in maine, curtain vintage linen tablecloth

Here is a preview, a glimpse into my home. I have lived here for almost 2 years and am enjoying the "I am still working on this" DIY aspect of this apt. I have done all of the painting and decorating, slowly & surely, as pieces come into my life and new ideas of inspiration form. Nothing in here was more than $70, except the bed frame. We love it here and are not planning to move anytime soon. Enjoy! and please share your thoughts and questions

~eco-mama m~

Common Ground Fair 2011

2011-09-24T10:29:00.002-04:00

photo dailies: collab project II

2011-08-03T06:55:00.008-04:00

adam

little wizard and zach

jeremy

evelina

...a little collaboration never hurts...these brilliant people were great to work with...Hair by Briana Bennett, photos by Mariah K Brinton...

photo dailies: early june

2011-08-03T06:47:00.000-04:00

delightful, playing with my toy camera...now hers

early summer..."wish you were here" kinda day with friends

we like things wild: food

2011-07-17T22:49:00.000-04:00

I have made many things this past month since my post about my first CSA share pickup. Things are getting wilder every week! the produce is amazing! Who woulda thunk I'd love kolrhabi and salad turnips so much!? And garlic Scapes? NO experience cooking with them prior, verdict now: get them while you can, its the most amazing addition to my diet right now. ie: lightly sauteed as a side with a lobster dinner, raw coleslaw and salad greens...juiced raw into my breakfast, sauteed and thrown over pasta, shredded in the cuisinart with raw beets and cabbage for slaw...

scape bouquet

I have been eating almost 75% raw and felt and saw a couple pounds melt off, I don't need to lose weight, but it also couples with my training for a 10k race and the muscles/tone and energy are kicking in so good right now.
So, between my CSA vegetables and some new recipes I've tried out, here's what I've got to share...plus a couple summer food photos...

excellent cone-shaped cabbage

pick-your -own strawbs

lemon ice cream and fresh berries

Breakfast: the raw green juice
(adapted after reading Whole Living Aug 2011 issue: the ultra green juice)
1 bulb Fennel
1 grannysmith Apple
2 stalks Celery
1 inch piece Ginger
1/2- 1 whole Lemon

Dessert: Raw chocolate Pudding
2 avocadoes
1/2 package of silken tofu
3 tablespoons cocoa, unsweetened
1/4 cup honey (preferably raw)
1/4 tsp salt
blend all the ingredients in a blender, chill and serve.
this serving size would be about for 3 people, it's taken me about 3 days to eat this though, it's so rich in flavor and satisfies very easily, I can put the spoon down after 5 small bites, my daughter, 3 bites and she is happy. Be aware of how much cocoa you can stand, I notice anymore than 3 tablespoons would make my heart go faster like I drank a 4 shot americano or something. The recipe I adapted this from called for 6 tablespoons!! but you do need to get the right balance so it doesn't taste entirely like avocado. so I added a little at a time and added the honey a little at a time until I got it where it was sweet enough and chocolatey enough for my taste.

Ultimate 'Slaw: we like it wild!
Shred anything in your fridge worth eating raw, add a killer dressing, a couple pickles and a hint of lemon and cheers, enjoy!
My favorite:
zucchini, cabbage, beets, salad turnips and radishes, hint of fresh squeezed lemon, Briana's Poppyseed dressing, 3 pickles on the side. Today chickpeas got added into the mix for lunch at the beach.

I hope all is well with anyone and everyone!! Enjoy the fruits of summer, they are a beautiful sight and taste. I smell my fresh cooked strawberry jam wafting in the air right now...
ciao!

food: the first CSA share

2011-06-23T21:55:00.000-04:00

Long have I awaited this first CSA pickup! enjoy the lovely sights of the veggies that I photographed once I got home with my bounty. I am so excitied!! greens!!

Dinner:
1.) Stir-fry with Chinese Cabbage, Cappellini pasta, and salad with nastursiums and bleu cheese.
2.) Water saute garlic Chard with Quinoa and chickpeas served with lettuce greens, bleu cheese, raisins and sunflower seeds. Side of fresh Rosemont bread, slathered in butter and Pinot Noir. Guest approval: my father, rather hungry after a branding and marketing meeting on the new adventures of the business. yeah!

photo dailies: inspiration

2011-06-16T15:00:00.000-04:00

this photo is an inspiration to me. I adore the saturation, the rich hues and the dead center sophisticated and sassy woman. I aspire to have oompf like this, both in my photo work and in my personal style.

(photo cred: refinery29.com summer skirts post)

2011-06-16T14:23:00.000-04:00

Love these guys!!!

photo dailies: textures

2011-06-12T14:46:00.000-04:00

these are a few of my favorite textures in my home

photo dailies: collab project

2011-06-09T08:23:00.001-04:00

I'm still here...just went on a blogging break, down to the beach. I shot these last month with some great people I am working on collaborating with. I am working with a hair stylist to gather photos of her work, and this was our first shoot. All this film was expired and wow what fun results! Enjoy!

Practically Green

2011-05-27T09:33:00.000-04:00

(image: http://www.butterboom.com/2009/04/27/toms-footwear/)

Today, I took the Practically Green "test" and put on my first pair of TOMS shoes.
WHY have I not done this years ago?! (the TOMS part)...

I would highly recommend taking this Green survey. It asks some great questions of your eco/green creds and gives you info based on the categories of: Energy, Water, Health, Stuff.
I need to improve my areas of:
- walk/bike to work
- use a HEPA vacuum
- upgrade my washing machine and refrigerator to an Energy Star rated appliance
- use a home energy monitoring device to estimate where I could save a double digits %-wise per year in un-necessary electricity/heating expenses.
Sounds like a good list for me to work on! These are definitely areas that will make a noticeable impact on my bill and carbon footprint. All the other questions I was able to answer with a definite: I have already done this! It felt great, knowing that I am and have been, well on my way to a very green lifestyle for a long time. And for all of you out there that haven't applied your eco-interests, there is always now, and you can do it!

biodynamic vs. organic

2011-05-25T17:03:00.000-04:00

With organic as a huge buzz word, it is gaining popular awareness in many circles. It is now more important than ever to fully recognise the differences between organic and biodynamic. The topic is lengthy, but here are some great highlights.

Biodynamics Is:

An impulse for deep social change rooted in the practice of farming. Biodynamics calls for new thinking in every aspect of the food system, from how land is owned to how farms are capitalized to how food is produced, distributed and prepared. A type of organic farming that incorporates an understanding of “dynamic” forces in nature not yet fully understood by science. By working creatively with these subtle energies, farmers are able to significantly enhance the health of their farms and the quality and flavor of food. A recognition that the whole earth is a single, self-regulating, multi-dimensional ecosystem. Biodynamic farmers seek to fashion their farms likewise as self-regulating, bio-diverse ecosystems in order to bring health to the land and to their local communities (Biodynamic Farming & Gardening Association).

"Biodynamic agriculture was the first ecological farming system to arise in response to commercial fertilizers and specialized agriculture after the turn of the century." (Diver, abstract)
"The basic ecological principle of biodynamics is to conceive of the farm as an organism, a self-contained entity. A farm is said to have its own individuality. Emphasis is placed on the integration of crops and livestock, recycling of nutrients, maintenance of soil, and the health and well being of crops and animals; the farmer too is part of the whole.
Thinking about the interactions within the farm ecosystem naturally leads to a series of holistic management practices that address the environmental, social, and financial aspects of the farm...While biodynamics parallels organic farming in many ways—especially with regard to cultural and biological farming practices—it is set apart from other organic agriculture systems by its association with the spiritual science of anthroposophy founded by Steiner, and in its emphasis on farming practices intended to achieve balance between the physical and higher, non-physical realms; to acknowledge the influence of cosmic and terrestrial forces; and to enrich the farm, its products, and its inhabitants with life energy... Biodynamics can be understood as a combination of "biological dynamic" agriculture practices. "Biological" practices include a series of well-known organic farming techniques that improve soil health. "Dynamic" practices are intended to influence biological as well as metaphysical aspects of the farm (such as increasing vital life force), or to adapt the farm to natural rhythms (such as planting seeds during certain lunar phases). (National Sustainable Agriculture Info Service, Diver).

In short, importance is placed on the health of the soil, the animals and the farm itself. The resources on the farm are re-used and self sustainable. The balance of the life forces of the physical and the non-physical are important. The planting calendar is based upon lunar phases. and that dude, Rudolf Steiner, is at the forefront of all this amazing philosophy. I am a Waldorf educated person, know all about Steiner!
I hope this helps shed light on the topic, and can also excite many people into realizing the importance and growing movement of bio-dynamic farming!

spring lust list: clothe thyself!

2011-05-17T22:04:00.001-04:00

I am lusting after some key pieces...mostly available from Anthropology and ASOS...ahh I am dreaming of soft warm air on my skin and a view of casco bay from the eastern prom...from behind some ray-ban knock offs! ha

juiced

2011-05-17T22:01:00.000-04:00

fresh squeezed juice...healthy, delicious and vitalizing! I work with it, I live with it, its good for you!! I took up juicing when I became pregnant. It has now become a major part of my everyday life. Trying to drink an 8oz glass everyday. (of course I suggest eating something too, as this makes me even more hungry, but energized in a unique way). Following are 2 easy recipes.

my favorite:
1 Organic Carrot
1/2 Organic Beet
1/2 Organic Fuji or Pink Lady Apple

add to above:
1/2 Cucumber
quarter size of Ginger
1 wedge Lemon

*or any variation: Carrot juice supplies a high amount of pro-vitamin A, which the body converts to Vitamin A; vitamins B,C,D,E, and K, minerals, calcium, phosphorous, sodium, and trace minerals. oh yes, that good ole beta-carotene! Carrot is great as a base to any juice or smoothie.
The book: Ultimate juicing has been a major inspiration! Veggies and Fruits are alphabetized and nutrients outlined. Many many recipes included, all for about $4 on amazon. Investment return!

dinner is served...porkchops!

2011-05-10T19:34:00.001-04:00

this Recipe was inspiring...Rosemont mrkt supplied the goods...the weather made me yearn, and the freezer made the fruit happen...left-over harvest from last year. bon appetit mon ami!

porkchop, quinoa, edamame, cucumber, pineapple, peach and onion...a cost of $11...a meal for me and my little babe...

DIY: tree stump side table

2011-05-10T08:36:00.000-04:00

I can't rest until I do all the things I think and dream about...so a little project like this came about on a lazy sunday (mother's day!). I discovered this stump while pushing my daughter on her swing. There was a large pile of soon to be fire wood, and I spotted this particular stump. Perfect! I have been on the lookout for a very small something- or- other to become a sidetable for the other side of my bed. And, always have wanted a stump. With furniture and design houses selling stumps, perfectly sanded and glossed for a high retail price (just think of their profit margin!) I knew I could eventually be resourceful and find just what I needed with a rustic edge to it. I sanded the top only and gave it one coat of tung oil.

DIY:
1 stump (make sure bottom is level)
electric sander (orbital, my favorite)
course and medium grit sand paper
tung oil (or any oil of your choice)
Sand until desired smoothness is accomplished. Dust off stump, coat surface with oil, using a cloth to apply it. Voila! beautiful in any home!

the Farm table

2011-05-01T22:25:00.000-04:00

assembling the legs

pegs through the cross brace

the final piece

checking it over prior to assembling

inscribed

tools of the trade

gotta love them knots

the finishing touch

My father built this farm table for me with his hands, his creative mind and excellent skill. This was contemplated over during the long winter months, and finalized today! We determined this piece of wood is 75+ years old, was felled in 1900 for the house I grew up in, trodden upon until 2009, and re-emerged as a gorgeous table in 2011. Talk about second lives! This means so much to me, as I have pined for a farm table for many years... and it's complete and ready for Mother's Day. What an amazing way to re-use wood, find beauty in the process and to create quality family time through building this together. Not only did it bring us together in the design process and work, but it will bring family and friends to the table for meals...and through my CSA share this summer I can guarantee a plethora of meals... I am one happy lady!!
Although I didn't physically do as much work as I had hoped, it was truely amazing to watch my father at work. I chisled one leg hole and sanded the top with the orbital sander, a tool I am familiar with, due to other furniture re-habs I've done to clothe this apartment. The tung oil was a nice finish, we've done one coat and it looks great, will wait another week to put a final coat on.
Bon Appetit!!

Review: Bamboo Utensil Set by To-Go Ware

2011-04-29T09:13:00.001-04:00

"Reduce Your Forkprint"

Imagine never throwing away another plastic fork. Never wrestling with each little plastic wrap on every single fork, spoon or knife you need for lunch out, or at the office.
A solution is here!! To-Go Ware is a beautiful answer to this problem. A set of bamboo utensils that come in a recycled plastic case, that can go with you anywhere. Another great feature: it comes with a convenient clip to hook onto your bag.

In the age of Eco Consciousness, we are finding that we need to carry with us an every-ready arsenal of supplies to prevent waste, one-time use and massive oil use. "You've got your travel mug, you've got your reusable shopping bags, How about a bamboo utensil set to round out your toolkit for life on the go?" I know the changeover is hard for some, but the shift in thinking and doing is a major part to our success. Success as Eco-Minded people, doing one thing at a time to help combat the amount of waste we throw out every hour, every day.

I find this bamboo set to be amazing. I saw a co-worker happily eating her salad with this set and was so impressed at the style, the look and the function that I picked up my set the next day. They are larger than your average set of silverware, but that takes care of everything from soup to large salads. Just don't expect to cut a steak with the knife and you'll be happily using and re-using your bamboo ware over and over. The case they come in is a beautiful little pouch with a snap and the color choices are fantastic.

The bamboo wood is durable, doesn't absorb food colors, or scents. They clean quickly and are so light it's not like you have another re-usuable water bottle's weight in your bag. It's about as light as an ipod nano so you really won't notice the little carrying case in your bag or purse. "And beautiful to boot. Perfect for your busy life and our precious planet. Let's toss the habit of tossing out plastic."

Eco-Mama Mariah gives two thumbs up!

*These are available at Whole Foods Markets, retail $11.95.

I recently added 3 re-usable shopping bags, the Envirosax, to my eco-"toolkit"and am so happy with it all. The To-Go Ware clips easily on to the straps of the Envirosax and there I go...off in my busy life.

Have a happy day, a green day and smile for the sunshine! Spring is here.

As always,

Your Portland, Maine Eco-Mama,

Mariah

tying up the loose ends of winter...

2011-04-26T07:54:00.000-04:00

...a flurry of snow in Feb, alot of rain in March and April, but the maple trees are "furry" with red and daffodils are scattered all over. The birch trees are stretching their branches onto my porch, tipped in light green buds...I cleaned up the back porch on sunday, easter, and it looks ready and habitable for a new season of plants, flowers, herbs, and dinners. In the meantime, I am working on my photos, some web design, and planning for some summer artfulness...happy spring everyone!

spring is upon us

2011-04-17T11:35:00.002-04:00

buzz worthy bedrooms

2011-04-08T08:34:00.000-04:00

We all strive for comfort and bliss, in our bedrooms. Here is one such image that speaks volumns to me. This purple bedroom is beautiful, I love how rich the colors are and yet how simplistic the decor is...one such theme I am working on as I complete my own room. I like how the deep color paint is an articulated rectangle on the wall, not all the way up, thus it lessens the intensity of the dark color while mapping out a definitive headboard area for the bed. Despite that the bed is off center, it remains "centered" by the bedside tables & small lights. The pendant lamp and the painting provide very nice ! points to the room. The coverlet is also a fantastic way to add texture to a simple room. This is now in my inspiration files for my own bedroom. I am working hard on completing my room, its painted, now I need the ! pieces to be added and have been struggling for some weeks now...thanks to this image I move forward...with yellow?! The 2nd image is purely for the love of stripes and yellow. My bedroom is painted grey...yellow goes very nicely...hmmm, more work ahead!

(Image above: An Ikea lampshade makes a huge impact over the bed in Irina Graewe’s home in Hamburg, Germany. From Sneak Peek: Irina Graewe Read more at Design*Sponge http://www.designspongeonline.com/2011/04/sneak-peek-best-of-pendant-fixtures.html#ixzz1IvvXM4MI)

(Image above: Bright yellow in the Angela Hardison’s Arizona bedroom from sneak peek: angela hardison
Read more at Design*Sponge http://www.designspongeonline.com/2011/03/best-of-stripes.html#ixzz1IvxvnjNp)

this week's dailies in photos

2011-04-04T19:56:00.000-04:00

Siena eats snacks

the sun just peeking through a tiny window on the house next door. Yes, this house took out my entire horizon view

Siena stuck a sticker on me and I didn't notice until much later!

attending the Sleeping Beauty Ballet

someone is turning 3!

early spring finds on a sunday afternoon

my father works on the legs of the table

so baby Janie got involved in the table-making too

nutcracker your friend's back, they'll enjoy it, just like a walnut

homemade Chandelier

2011-03-29T22:25:00.000-04:00

Another fun DIY project: a homemade chandelier
This is the 2nd one I have made, and they've added a lovely flair to our mood lighting in our home. The 1st one is in Siena's room, in place of a glaring overhead bulb that came with no cover. Ugh!
The 2nd one is in our "entrance hallway" or so it has been concocted to be, we have no real entry way to our apt as the stairs leading to both front and back door don't make sense with the rooms they open into. But, this is the feeling I wanted to make, and it worked. Voila entrance table, display, picture on wall and now chandelier. Thanks to the once was Domino home mag for entrance- way makeovers, which had a lasting impression on me.

Materials:
-Hoop (sturdy, wire wreath ring, wooden/plastic embroidery hoop, or even a hoolah hoop!)
-1 or 2 strings christmas lights
(vary color, length etc to your liking) I used 1 string of icicle style lights to make draping pieces to hang down).
-string, wire, twist ties (I used white twist ties, commonly found in a box of purchased garbage bags)
-ribbon, string or twine to make the hanging part from ceiling. (i used off-white ribbon from a christmas gift wrapping)

Wrap lights around hoop, tie off at intervals to keep snug to hoop. Wind around until complete- leave length of end to plug into ceiling socket or extension cord.
Use 3-4 strings to make hanging device to hook to ceiling hook.

Be creative! this was a quick project, siena assisted me in 20 minutes. Calmed a temper tantrum too, hence no facial pics, tears where indeed streaming down her face prior to the fun we had making this. Best part: asking her to twist the twist ties.

Community Supported Agriculture & homemade almond milk

2011-03-24T22:00:00.001-04:00

This week I joined a CSA share. I am terribly excited! I've never had a share of my "own" and I feel its a big step towards truely investing in the land around you. Ie: hyper local! Support a farm, chose organic and get cooking. I found this farm through the MOFGA website under Maine CSA Directory. Loving the name of it, New Beat Farm. They are certified Organic by MOFGA and use horse power. Best of all is that they drop off on Munjoy Hill. I get to walk 3 blocks and have my share?! Done deal. I was looking for ways to lessen the "chore" of certain tasks in my life and this became clearly the way to go for me. Couldn't be happier than a clam in mud, new england mud. Also biggest highlight is showing my daughter the fruits of the earth and meeting other farmers. Now, spring, where are you?!

Next up we have homemade almond milk. I made one batch: 3 cups milk created from just 1 cup of almonds! Total cost: under $2.00. It took all of an overnight soak and then some blending.

"milk" in re-used jar

fine weave strainer

Recipie

Homemade Almond Milk
Makes 3 cups
Making your own almond milk is very easy, just plan ahead to allow time for soaking the almonds.
Ingredients
1 cup almonds
Water
Method
Put almonds in a bowl and cover by several inches with cold water. Cover and set aside at room temperature to soak overnight or 10 to 12 hours.

Drain and rinse almonds. In a high speed blender, blend almonds with 3 cups water until thoroughly combined. The mixture will be very frothy. Strain through cheese cloth, a fine strainer or a nut milk bag. Store almond milk in refrigerator and use within 3 days. Stir before using.
Nutrition
Per serving (about 1cup/ 9oz/258g-wt.): 90 calories (35 from fat), 4g total fat, 0g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 13g total carbohydrate (1g dietary fiber, 12g sugar), 2g protein

**suggestion: for added sweetness, I would blend 1 tbl honey into the mix, and maybe a pinch of cinnamon. Almond milk is straight up un-sweet, real-deal. But it is good and oh so good for you!

kitchenware: "new" finds

2011-03-20T20:24:00.000-04:00

three that share a common thread: metallic details along outer edge

glassware with a flat bottom, how very column-like

I have been searching for months on end for new dishware. I have owned ikea since 2006 and most of them have seriously cracked or chipped...time to literally recycle them... thanks to the many vintage/ antique/ salvation army shops in my area of Southern Maine, I was able to find an assortment that I love! not to mention it all cost under $20. Eco-Mama on the hunt: total kill! Not to mention the 'B' on the smallest dish...I'm not into monogramming but this initial (for my last name) adds a stately aspect I'm digging.

photography site

2011-03-20T18:50:00.000-04:00

Dear readers-
I am adding to my list of accomplishments, a photography site. Wordpress hosted...it will evolve the more time I spend on it. If you are curious, here's the temporary address: site here.
I finally have the resources to work on this. I have time to do all the design work I have been dreaming of doing. This spring already rocks!!
In the next 2 months you will see some beautiful projects unfold as I work closely on some sites and logos with clients and my own photography.
here's to turning 30!! I am feeling really excited and mature about all of this. It's undescribable to you, but anyone who has been on this pinnacle looking outward to the future with a better grasp of what it means and where the heck you are going, you understand. It feels comfortable and like all the dreaming and planning are being utilized.

This is my life, here's to it!!

~mariah
your ever-wondering, thinking eco-mama, photographer, dreamer, and now the doer, to the fullest

here we are now...march ahead

2011-03-14T07:37:00.000-04:00

a tulip stained glass, from my dear friend kim in philadeplphia

entertain during brunch @ caiola's with mini etch-A-sketch and notepad with multicolor pencil

make bag head and poke eyes holes in it

the flower show: a large bee-inspired garden display

floating pond of cranes

a day in february..a photo diary

2011-02-25T11:43:00.001-05:00

sumptuous leather chairs

I had an invite I couldn't pass up last weekend...a photo shoot on the oceanfront in Falmouth. Down a private lane we drove, to a beautiful 1950's house, decorated with gorgeous art and original pieces from the 50's- 70's. Think Eames lounge chairs, Henry Bertoia wire chairs, and this leather one, (pictured above). My heart pattered in delight, for this is the collection of furnishings and art I hope to be surrounded with in my own home... some day. This home embodied the feeling of well-lived in, well loved and heart-fully collected. There was a simple rhyme and reason to the layout and placement of everything. It felt entirely natural and cosy with 2 wood fires burning.

Siena and Evan snack by the fire

I sat for some portraits and then I turned my camera to the environment and people around me. and I feel so much better after that afternoon, complete with a glass of wine, sunset on the frigid iced ocean and children playing happily.

hayes ponders mancala, bunny & ocean

rachel and eileen: games

review: Leap Organics skincare

2011-02-19T23:02:00.000-05:00

Leap Organics, a conscious, fantastically concocted skin-care line. Eco Mama Mariah approves! I can't tell you how important it is for a company to get & complete their Organic certification, know the difference between natural and organic, make their packaging look damn good and totally sustainable, and have a whimsical start-up story. Go Leap and you'll never turn back. I work at Whole Foods and they have landed a very prominent spot on our shelves, good for them!

I have been searching for a new facial cleanser for many months, and finally have alighted on a new love: the Organic facial cleanser:

Sweet Orange and Grapefruit with Cucumber and Green tea. Retail: $15.
I find it to be a perfect super-clean cleanse, a sweet smell, hence the sweet orange and grapefruit. If you love citrus, crave the crisp spring feeling citrus embodies, then this product will love you too!
It's very emollient, suds well despite the non-presence of sulfates, and only requires a tiny pea size portion to get the job done beautifully. I am guessing it will last me 6+ months, which is fantastic on your budget!! More apples for your bushel.

The Organic Standards the company follows are in the top rankings. (following excerpt is posted on their site and can be read further...here...)

"...In order to have your ingredients and products certified organic, a company must enlist the services of an organic certifier. These folks are third parties that verify that a company’s ingredients and processes have met all of the USDA’s organic guidelines. LEAP uses Oregon Tilth to certify its organic ingredients and processes in accordance with the USDA’s guidelines. Oregon Tilth is one of the nation’s leading organic certifying agencies. To learn more about them, please visit http://tilth.org..."

I love the opening lines of the "our story" part of their company...it includes a beautiful nod to Maine (you know it, I love Maine!!)

"...For a lot of things in life, my Dad has always been there with good advice when I needed it: “Ignore those kids — your ears aren’t big, your head is just small,” and sure enough my head grew, eventually making my ears look smaller (kind of); “Read some Hemingway, focus on your writing, and practice those Mikan drills,” and I ended up getting into my favorite college in Maine to play basketball and befriended a couple classic novels; “Create a soap that doesn’t dry-out and make my skin itch.” Huh?

Sitting on our favorite beach on Cape Cod with my Mom and sis’, I asked my Dad if he was serious or kidding about his soap comment. “Half kidding,” he said. So while I had never thought about making soap before, let alone an entire skincare line, my Dad’s quasi-serious piece of advice would turn out to be quite serendipitous..."

So please, go try it and tell me your story! I have a good feeling many people will love this product and keep upping the ante on organic knowledge.

As Always, love from

Eco-Mama Mariah in Maine

(all pics and excepts pasted directly off the Leap website: www.leaporganics.com)

grey, grise, smudge

2011-02-11T23:44:00.000-05:00

new eco-paint line from Jotun called: 'Lady Sensitive'. Developed in collaboration:

the Norwegian Asthma and Allergy association. That's so fresh!!

photo:

Styling by Kråkvik & D'Orazio and photography by Siren Lauvdal

styled and shot by Mette Wotkjær. Both via Femina

(both pics via emmasdesignblog)

february food dailies

2011-02-10T05:57:00.001-05:00

hello and hello february, you drag your feet so slowly!
I bring you some food daily updates from the past 2 weeks, its been a time of creativity and hibernation. It's also been a time of love, warming foods and reading. With Valentine's day just around the corner, I wanted to share my eating trends with you for some ideas. I am using my cook books alot more these days and my skills are showing!! Pick up a fabulous book, or bookmark a great blog and get cooking.

Spice, home-made, colorful vegetables, and of course love. There are so many benefits to eating with spices, for example, we made gingerbread cookies yesterday. I sprinkled cinnamon on my poached eggs dish and in my coffee, and fresh ground black pepper is always at hand. Color is easily added with rainbow chard, beets, leeks, red cabbage, etc. It gets really fun once you start thinking about it! Have a lovely week and love your love (s) on V-Day.

we baked cookies yesterday, it was terribly fun having a little helper with flour on her face!

we made homemade pizza last week

poached eggs with rice and rainbow chard, hello brunch!

a little decoration that makes me smile every time I look out the windows

*currently reading: Simply Organic cookbook. AMAZING. its divided by season.

farm table

2011-02-05T21:58:00.002-05:00

this table is in the workshop! I am dreaming of a beautiful spring, a gathering place, a project table, large family meals and friends and family dropping by more often. I do love a good farm table. My father is constructing a handmade table for me from a large cedar board removed from the floor of his study. Re-purposed, salvaged and loved by our feet since I was a small child. size: 70" long x 32" wide. perfection, in that wabi-sabi way, nail holes and all. Labor of love, thank you.

home-made goodness

2011-02-02T15:11:00.000-05:00

home-made granola, 8am, snowday. Ground hog day!!

pleasures of daily life

2011-01-30T15:29:00.000-05:00

mid-jnuary brings the dregs...the days are dragging in the cold weather and endless snow. it is all very beautiful, but we all get tired of it. here's some color, food and art to keep it warm n lively.

Last winter...on film!

2011-01-30T14:30:00.001-05:00

e. 12th street new york city dec 20 2009

holga camera, kodka portra 160 VC

a few of my favorite things

2010-12-26T08:27:00.000-05:00

Christmas was a joyous, cozy day... here are a few of my favorite things...the wrapping with stenciled letters are my touch on the gifts I gave to family.

happy merry-ness

2010-12-17T22:10:00.001-05:00

Happy holidays everyone!!
Siena takes really great pictures of me, its so amusing and delightful. Here's our chubby little 4 foot fragrant tree from a pick-your- own tree farm in Cape Elizabeth. Better pictures to follow when I finish all the decorating.
ps- I did in fact get my lust item: Quartz crystal ornaments from Viva Terra, they are so lovely!!

My holiday table display...the photo in the background is from 2004 San Francisco, when i shot exclusively in black & white...good ole days.

and yet again...time has passed, past

2010-11-20T22:44:00.000-05:00

Another few weeks have flown by! and the weather has changed for the colder I fear, this week. Peppermint Mochas and homemade gingersnap cookies are being heartily enjoyed. Last saturday I went for an extreme run in a tshirt and sat and ate lunch in the sun, 80 degrees to be precise, and today I took a long walk with scarves wrapped tight to protect from the wind and leaves swirling dried and crispy up above our heads...well well, you can never be fully prepared for life, eh!?

It's the weekend before thanksgiving and I haven't ordered the turkey yet, not sure of the menu and already planning xmas gifts and plans. What happened? since when do I plan christmas before thanksgiving? I never do that! but this year I placed orders and sent out wish lists before nov 15th...wow. Yes, I am a mom, and a still 20-something year old...but I am trying to live in the moment and get real-er. It's my new goal, oh and that falls under new year's resolutions, and clearly I am practicing that all very early too. Yikes!

well, a few fun photos and I am off to bed. I may just have time to post again before thanksgiving, but if not, just know I am concocting enough holiday commentary to stir the pot of fun, and amuse many. ha!

*Currently reading: Michael Polan Food Rules, Martha Stewart Living Dec 2010, made a variation of her holiday vanilla spice cookies today (turned them into gingersnap cookies with orange zest), Emmas Design Blog SE and JCrew Holiday 2010.
Lusting after: Viva Terra Quartz Crystal Ornaments

...and you better believe: I returned 6 milk bottles this week, saved 10 shopping bags, did not drive my car at all today, and unplugged un-used lights and tuned the heat way down each morning when leaving the house. Phew! it all starts somewhere ;-)

what more can i adore

2010-10-30T15:12:00.000-04:00

but life itself, and every single thing that occurs within each moment. Nature exists, to show us the intricate absolute beauty it holds. So I take as much time walking in nature to enjoy and photograph each stunning moment I am within its space. We should all do so, it's a gem.

(east end beach, portland)

(carved log, east end beach)

(Macworth Island, view of the eastern prom)

(Siena berry picking- to examine but not eat)

(sumac, the most vibrant red)

(throwing rocks into the ocean, as usual, the best therapy!)

cruisin into fall

2010-10-24T09:29:00.000-04:00

(siena cruisin to the playground on her radio flyer)

(throwing leaves)

(maple leaves in vivid red, my favorite)

(squash at Common Ground Fair in Unity, Maine Sept 26th)

small finds and projects

2010-10-18T08:33:00.000-04:00

(small shelf found @ Mt. Vernon dump, going in my bathroom)

(beveled edge mirror, just what I was looking for! junk shop in Belgrade)

(refinished sides & edges by sanding and sanding)

(sides are now clean and light)

For the love: food

2010-10-15T20:53:00.000-04:00

Food, for the love of food!
The food industry has been my fall-back and adapted "career." Food in many ways is my biz these days...(and has been for quite some time.) I've hosted many events and brunches, and now its turned into working with caterers and wedding planners to serve parties. It's quite enjoyable.
Last night I worked with a friend who catered a private party for the new owners of the State Theatre here in Portland. It was fun and happy crowd. I was totally expecting total ruckus and drunken mayhem especially with a band involved, but it ended up being totally mellow, and the best part: we were at Bubba's Sulky Lounge. That place is a stage set for weird and curious events. (There's a wild 80's night there on fridays). What a trip is all I can say. Decorated to the nines with Halloween decor and curious old antiques and vintage goods...even baby prams!!

(strange and curious antiques: a perfume sprayer)

Here's some flicks of the delicious food we passed. Nate is a superb cook, and a great work partner. All ingredients were from Maine, locally sourced from within 50 miles of Portland.

(tray layout of Potato salad (vegan and w/ bacon) kielbasa with kraut and Maine mac apples, lobster roll, spiced eggplant and green tomato chutney with julienned colrabi, and all home made rolls)

(the lobster rolls, perfect!)

(JJ of CakeFace serving it up)

(Nate himself, thanks Nate!!)

fall is here!

2010-10-12T12:03:00.000-04:00

(my friend picking red leaves for both our daughters)

As the sun slants lower in the sky and shines with a lighter golden fall glow...taking an opportunity to welcome fall is an important event. It's a drastic seasonal changeover, and a beautiful one too! For many many years 'Autumn in New York by Ella Fitzgerald and Louise Armstrong has been my absolute favorite song to warm things up...but suddenly this year it feels so out of touch. And rightfully so, I live in Portland, Maine, a port city that smells of salt and sea and feels like a seaman's town... we've had some gales here lately that make me think I'll see mysterious ship's masts come gliding out of the fog and mist as the wind howls and the rain blows sideways... but when the rain passes, the skies burst open to a rich blue with the whitest clouds and the trees are all shades of yellow, orange, red, red-purple. Just yesterday I was driving north on 295 to Hallowell and I was observing the vast array of amazing fall colors. The highway seemed to split the scene in half, one side had the perfect grey sky, ready to drip with rain, and the other side was blue and bright with sunshine. Slowly a rainbow appeared and then the large fat raindrops. As the highway became wet with rain, it became a ribbon of shiny blue winding thru the hillsides of trees. Then the rain stopped and a glorious double rainbow appeared. I pointed excitedly at the rainbow for Siena to see. She looked amazed.

(fall colors in south portland)

I have a list of 'Fall Things To Do' that is staring at me, and all the summer things themselves are glaring at me from their corners. The fans need cleaning and to be put away, the summer blouses and skirts need ironing and storing, my winter sweaters are not happy about being in a rumpled mess on a shelf...my boots have not come out of hiding yet, and I need them to...
but for now, I am enjoying each day I have time to be outdoors. Kicking the rustling piles of leaves terribly fun! Raking large piles and jumping into them is even better. Gathering all different colored leaves is beautiful. Every moment of warm fall sunshine is bliss. Especially with an earthenware coffee mug in both hands...filled with steaming apple cider.

(painting pumpkins)

Style for the little ones

2010-09-03T05:36:00.002-04:00

I adore a good cataloge and magazine for the wee ones...and today I came across Nonchalant Mom's post all about 'La Petite' for the little ones Magazine...in which she was featured, of course ( the ultra baggy pants for gals, so stylish!). Just look at that little crew in the above photo!! Reminds me of the magazine Milk which I always want to buy and never do. This is the Fall issue, j'adore. It features Jenny from Dos Family, Suki from Varpunen, (two of my favorite swedish home & family design blogs), a DIY sailor Hat, and the "Loving Muchacha" page is all about rabbits, click on over to see its delightful...among other amazing stuffs.

{photography by Amber Fischer and words by Jean Kyler McManus (nonchalant mom pants)}

inspiration: wedding photography

2010-08-30T12:11:00.000-04:00

Kamp Photography (http://www.kampphotography.com/)
is an amazing husband and wife team of photographers. Their mantra: simple, fun, sexy, love. Photography for awesome people. I discovered them browsing Design Sponge...
it's always an inspiration to see amazing photos, and amazing weddings...

l'amore...sigh