My oh my, it has been awhile. This whole "school" thing has got me trippin'. Summer...how I miss thee. Popsicles, long afternoons in the sun with a book, transcendent afternoons, summer boys. Back to reality, right?
Going back to school sort of makes me want to stand on the roof of my house and scream. I don't think I'd ever actually do that; the more likely event is that I'd call Katherine and we'd sit up there for hours, talking about philosophy and the universe and infinity and watching the stars until both of us got hungry. Maybe we'd sing a little.
As I write this, I'm thinking about how utterly grateful I am for everything and everyone in my life. Thank you all so very much for being yourselves. I wouldn't want you to be any other way.

sweet sixteen

It is a big day in a girl's life! I love birthdays--I get to be a princess for the day, feel just a little spoiled. Being the center of attention has its benefits (and pitfalls--I hate restaurant happy-birthday serenades). And, I'll admit, I enjoy a little present now and again. My lovely parents have bought me a laptop for my birthday! Love and thanks to all those who took time out of their day to wish me a happy birthday.

These photos pretty much describe my mood today. Despite the raging sunburn on my shoulders, I feel very...whimsical and happy. Plus, I'm planning a little soiree for my birthday. That will make any girl smile!
Photos: Teen Vogue and Katya Ford

Reminds me of Alice in Wonderland, makes me want to dye my hair pink and buy lots of flowers. Plus, the clothes are GORGEOUS. Love love love.

Today was a cloudy, gray, drizzly, perfect day. Leanne is best. She makes me smile like no other person can. Plus, the fantastic shoes we tried on helped to heal yesterday's semi-depression. There is nothing that Eegees, designer shoes, giggles, Cosmo, and the OC can't cure.

Images: Vogue Australia.

nostalgia

I miss the days where every little thing made me over the moon with happiness, and when the whole world was unspoiled and magical, and when joy was simply based off of whether or not I could wear my tiara to school, or something ridiculous like that. As compelling as knowledge of the world is, I fear it is turning me into a somewhat jaded and judgmental human being. Pessimism suddenly overrides any ideas of fresh starts or newfound faith. I want to be positive--but when I pick up the newspaper or read a magazine, I can't help but feel a little bit nostalgic for a time when politics and suffering were not at all on my emotional radar. Maybe this cynicism is just an aspect of growing up?
Sometimes, I don't want to grow up.

the windy city

My oh my, I love Chicago. I've been here not even one day, and already I am in love with the buildings, the food, the people, the fashion. Yesterday was a gray, cold day, which allowed me to wear my trench coat and jeans (something that never happens in the summer in Tucson). Today, I woke up to sunshine pouring in through every window. I'm eager to see the city in the sunshine.

As I look out towards the old cemetery across the street (the Romantic in me does not find cemeteries to be eerie in the least), golden light seems to spill out beyond the shadows of the trees. Two chic girls in airy summer dresses and cardigans just walked down the street with a little prancing Pomeranian. I imagine that they are headed out to do something incredibly Parisian and stylish. I'm enchanted!!

Tomorrow, I begin my class at the art institute. I'm not sure whether or not to be nervous. I am a decent drawer/painter. I'm more nervous about the people in the class.
This week, while I'm taking my class, I get a free pass to the Chicago Art Institute. That means I am free to meander through the galleries. Museums bring out a certain wanderlust in me; I am desperate to explore every corner.

Mom, if you're reading this, don't worry about me, I'm having a lovely time!

Stay tuned for photos from the Art Fair.

the simple life

today, I am utterly grateful for..

1. Working at a kids art camp today. I'm just so grateful for the opportunity/fun. As in, I was reluctant to leave my newfound friends at quittin' time. Tomorrow is another day of collaging and running mundane errands!!

2. Solo bike rides through my neighborhood. Honestly, there is no better way to clear your head. It was nice to soak up the sun and stop thinking about anything but the sky and the birds and the coasting sounds of your bike on the pavement. Phyllis, my darlin sky-blue cruiser bicycle, was delighted to be taken for a ride, I think.

3. Swedish fish with Lindsey. They're the only food allowed in her fancy schmancy new sports car..justifiably so...