HEARTing Handmade :3

Back to Reality #26

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Tue, 14 May 2013 10:53:00 +0000

I'm back home after 2,5 months at the clinic. I can't really say that I made a significant progress in that period, but I almost overcame depression which is mega super awesome! ^_^ I still can't function as "normal" people, but I'm working on it every single day.

Here are some winter photos of my second home. As a part of my therapy, I walked a dog named Astra. She uplifted me so many times. :)

Remind me the Story That I won't get Insane

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 10:14:00 +0000

Dear virtual friends, I wanted to say hi. Just as I came back to the blogosphere I disappeared again. This happened because I was hospitalized in the psyhiatric hospital. I've been more or less healthy for the last five years but so much happened in the last year that I mentally collapsed. However, I'm certain that I'm at the right place now and that I will get better. As a part of my therapy I'm gonna try to regularly post shorter blogs. No planning, just going with the flow. I apologize for grammar mistakes and weird sentences because it's still hard for me to concentrate and form coherent sentences.

Let's Get Physical in February

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 22:41:00 +0000

I'm happy to tell you that I've been doing better than when I last joined lovely Evani's link-up. I didn't make any New Year's resolutions (I never do), but I'm proud of the beginning of 2013 anyway.

Facts & Confessions

I often crave sugar and alcohol, especially when I'm stressed out. Because I live in the middle of nowhere now, I have to drive a car when I meet with my friends. That means: not even a drop for the next year and a half. It's a little annoying cause I really like to relax with a glass of good wine, but it makes me drink much less than I had been used to.

I make a lot of desserts, but I'm always trying out healthier alternatives. I've realized that you can make great desserts from vegetables and legumes. Others love them too if I don't tell them about secret ingredients. ;) I think I'm consuming more veggies than ever before and I actually enjoy them, especially raw and baked. I have a feeling that other family members think I'm going nuts.

I'm also (interval) running regularly for the first time in my life and I'm getting a little addicted to it - my body gets nervous every 48 hours if I don't put on my running shoes. It probably helps that I'm surrounded by a beautiful natural scenery when I run. It really makes me happy. I sleep better and I don't consume as many tranquillizers and caffeine as I used to, although I'm still facing lots of difficulties in my everyday life. But(!) I still stay at home when it rains/snows - I'm not that serious about it (yet).

February Goals

1. Every week pick 5 smaller challenges and complete at least 4 of them

A few months ago I singed up on SlimKicker. It's a page for tracking eating and exercising habits in a fun way (following the concept of level-up games). I'm too lazy to log what I eat and how much I exercise, but I like to join different challenges (duh ;)). So far I've completed challenges like:

- Skip your favorite junk food

- 20 pushups a day

- Sleep at 11PM for a week (this one was hard!)

- Information diet challenge (too easy, hehe) and

- Delay your cravings.

The last challenge I failed was Avoid gluten foods. I'm gonna try it again, but I'll wait for the carnival time to pass. :D Anyone on this site? Let's be friends! My profile.

2. Complete 6th weeks of C25K running program

I've heard a lot about this "Couch to 5k" program. I finally decided to give it a try and it rocks. I listen to Podrunner Intervals by DJ Beatsmith. Awesome stuff. Highly motivating, great music and I always know how fast I should run/walk. It's almost like running with a personal trainer (I'm speaking from experience).

So what you're waiting for? ;)

Hello World!

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 21:38:00 +0000

I can't believe it took us 5 months to set up the internet connectivity. Well not us, but the people who are paid to do it. I won't complain too much because it felt pretty good to be unplugged for so long. Yeah, it was annoying to nag my friends whenever I had an urgent need to use the nets, but I had miraculously more time for traditional hobbies like reading, knitting and running in the woods. So here is a little peek from my walks. I hope everyone is doing great and if not great - at least better than in the 2012. ;)

Top Ten Books To Get In The Halloween Spirit

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 19:53:00 +0000

The other day I was thinking about putting up a top ten Halloween-friendly books and decided to do it only in case I find enough free time. But today I came by a meme called Top Ten Tuesday which is dedicated to the same theme this week. I couldn't resist the urge to create my own list this exact moment. Packing kitchen appliances can wait (yay, we're finally moving to the new house!).

Note: this is no ultimate list, so it's highly subjective and excludes many great works I haven't yet had a chance to read. Written in no particular order.

1. American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis

Obvious choice since I wrote a spontaneous review about it today. Incredible psychological thriller.

2. The Canterville Ghost by Oscar Wilde

Do you have to entertain children? This story could be the perfect read! Funny and charming.

3. Dance Dance Dance by Haruki Murakami

The Dolphin Hotel gave me the creeps. So did the Sheep Man.

4. Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Austen's entertaining gothic horror parody.

5. Watchers by Dean Koontz

This novel and I are of the same age, but I could easily picture it in the today's world. I was totally spooked by The Outsider!

6. Lord of the Flies by William Golding

Another novel that held me in suspense to the end. Also one of the best works ever written.

7. The Fall of the House of Usher and other tales by Edgar Allan Poe

A classic and the most perfect read for a Halloween night. I can't believe that this guy lived in the 19th century!

8. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

Great read for a young lady. The memory of that house haunted me for ages.

9. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

What's with those houses and hotels with secrets? I just can't get enough of them!

10. The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka

What would you do if you turned into a gigantic insect overnight?

What's your choice of read to get in the Halloween spirit? Or do you prefer to be spooked by your own television? Maybe I'll post a top 10 for movies too. :)

Ghost Stories and Serial Killers. Why I Love American Psycho

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 13:47:00 +0000

I'm slowly getting into the Halloween mood with my reading and watching choices. I read The Canterville Ghost by Oscar Wilde and American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis for an LGBT reading event. The Canterville Ghost is an entertaining, family-friendly ghost story, but I liked Wilde's other works better. However, American Psycho blew me away.

American Psycho: the book vs. the movie

I watched Mary Harron's movie adaptation for the first time a few years ago and it instantly became one of my favorite movies. I was never a huge fan of horror or crime movies, but this one was pure enjoyment from the first second to the last. Christian Bale is incredible in the role of Patrick Bateman, a serial killer, but other actors in supporting roles are also great (you probably all know Chloe Sevigny, Reese Witherspoon, Jared Leto and William Dafoe). Here is the most famous scene from the movie:

TRY GETTING A RESERVATION AT DORSIA NOW YOU FUCKING STUPID BASTARD! YOU, FUCKING BASTARD!

As I mentioned before, I don't enjoy violence scenes that much, but the movie isn't too graphic anyway. If you haven't seen the movie yet, I strongly suggest you do so, because it's a great comment on the narcissist generation of western society. It's also accompanied with an awesome pop music of the late 1980s. It obviously isn't family friendly, but you won't lose your dinner if the above scene wasn't too much for you.

If you're interested in reading the book, I certainly recommend it, but you may prefer to do it on an empty stomach. I was reading it with expectations I got from the movie and I was honestly shocked while reading certain chapters - and I thought that violence saturated TV generation prepared me for everything! This is where the power of the written word kicked in - words can play a scarier game with your mind than direct images.

~~Mistletoe~~ Mild spoilers alert!

So yeah, the scariest parts (killing in the ZOO, what he did with prostitutes' bodies etc.) of the book weren't included in the movie and I actually think this was the right decision. These chapters weren't so scary because of the graphic descriptions by themselves, but more because of Bateman's narration. The way he is describing his feelings and behavior is heart-breaking. I felt disgusted, but also concerned and sad.

Ellis captured the generation of "absent father" amazingly, but I wish there was more information about his childhood (I have a feeling that the author made this on purpose). We only learn that he is a child of divorce, his brother is a drug addict, his father is the owner of the company where he works and his mother is senile at the time of his adulthood. One time he mentions that he raped the family's maid as a teenager. So it's clear that he had anything he needed as a child (financially speaking), but he didn't get genuine love from his parents.

There is an idea of a Patrick Bateman; some kind of abstraction. But there is no real me: only an entity, something illusory. And though I can hide my cold gaze, and you can shake my hand and feel flesh gripping yours and maybe you can even sense our lifestyles are probably comparable... I simply am not there.

He is portrayed as a typical narcissist and consumerist which is perfectly captured in the opening scene (above). Take notice of what he says about the idea of Patrick Bateman. He's obviously highly intelligent because he has a good ability of self-analyzing, but his suffering is unfortunately beyond repair. He suffers from OCD, perfectionism and hallucinations (the latter may be drug-induced). He desperately wants to fit in the society, although he despises it. In the book he confesses his wish to be loved and taken seriously by others. However, he is unable to return such feelings toward others because he can only regard them as objects or means to fulfill his desires. His urge to kill is never completely satisfied, so his homicidal behavior becomes more frequent and brutal towards the end.

Both book and the movie are concluded with an open, unclear end. Patrick miraculously escapes a killing spree and confesses his crimes to his attorney, but he doesn't believe him, claiming that he had lunch with Paul Allen (whom he murdered in the famous movie scene). He revisits Paul's apartment where he brutally murdered two prostitutes, but there is no trace of the composing bodies. This made me wonder if it was all only Bateman's hallucination, but the fact that Paul's apartment was strongly scented with flowers suggests that something is gravely wrong in this place. So did he commit these murders or did he only imagine it? The movie seems to support the latter interpretation, but the book is written in the favor of the former one.

Your thoughts?

Goodbye Summer Pt. 2: Fairs in Ljubljana

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 13:52:00 +0000

I already miss summer fairs! Slovenian cities are surprisingly deserted during the late summer, which I actually like since big crowds make me super anxious. Here are some photos I snapped at medieval themed and vintage fashion fairs.

I like to buy vintage and second-hand clothes. They are affordable, durable (made from better materials than nowadays) and there aren't many chances that your friend will own the same shirt. I made a little purchase at Vintage Vikend's booth. Look closely for the price - Can you see how frugal I am? ;)

Refreshing with Cockta, Slovenian famous soft drink.

Puppets! Do you recognize any of the characters?

I remember playing with those as a little kid. I had a lot of handmade toys.

My brother was even more fascinated by Starman's weapon replicas.

But he also liked the shine of glass jewelry by Moj dom (meaning My home).

I love the natural look of this unique jewelry.

Mmm, this booth by Moj dom smelled wonderfully of lavender.

Traditional lacemaking.

A lady from the Tourist Society Železniki. This town used to be known for iron smelting from middle ages to the beginning of 20th century. They say that at the end of the 19th century every woman from Železniki knew how to make lace. It was all the rage then. :)

Looms!

Last but not least, the knitter's booth. Since knitting is my latest obsession, this one was my favorite.

I took business cards of these vendors, but I didn't hide them from my brother, so some of them got lost when he was playing. Let me know if you know their web pages so I can properly credit them.

Next and final post will be about summer music festivals. Do you visit fairs and festivals during the summer? I like them all year long, but I'm not so eager to live the house during colder months.

Let's get physical in October!

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 20:50:00 +0000

Source

Found via Pinterest - of course I had to make Let's get physical! pinboard. :)

I didn't achieve goals from September, but I had more or less good excuses. First, I didn't go to boot camp at all because I'm broke. So I'll be working out at home as long as I don't find a part-time job or some money falls down a tree. Otherwise I was physically active almost every day (I rested a few days when I was ill).

I only made green juice like every other day. Some days I was too lazy or I preferred to just eat those veggies and fruits (it depended on what I had on hand). I juiced every day in the first half of the month, but I only did it a few times in the second half. And guess what? I have a cold now. I almost never get a cold if I eat healthy every day and work out a lot. I clearly have to work on this goal more. :)

I also lost some weight unintentionally. I'm not sure if this is a good or a bad thing.

Eat raw every day.

3x a week. I lately changed my sleeping pattern - I get up at 6am every week day, even if I don't have to go to the uni. I want to try working out in the morning again, since I'm getting up early anyway.

September wasn't too successful for me, but I had better diet than in the summer (more juicing and plant-based cooking). I really hope to improve my immune system until November. :)

Crazy Cat Ladies Meet #7

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 08:21:00 +0000

This is a weekly social meeting where I share my favorite links (=hopefully inspiring resources) & crafty giveaways (always international friendly!) I recently found around the web. I may also share my random thoughts while brewing a virtual coffee for you. Milk or sugar?

Link Love

1. The Key to Creating Remarkable Things. The first tip is awesome.

2. How to Re-Program Your Subconscious Mind to Get What You Want. Marie is a little silly in this video, but her guest brings life-changing information. I know, because I've done it myself (I wouldn't be writing this blog otherwise). It doesn't matter if you're afraid of success or not. You CAN change the way you think.

3. Do you watch Downton Abbey? Well, even if you don't you'll find Jimmy Fallon's parody hilarious. I love lady Hedith! :D

Creative Giveaways

$40 credit to Ecuadorian Hands' Tagua Beads, ends today.
Multiple handmade items from top Etsy sellers, ends tomorrow.
Handmade Cellini Spiral Bangle, ends on the 26th.
$15 gift certificate plus free shipping to craft supplier shop, ends on the 28th.
$20 shop credit to Dana's Darling Design, ends on the 29th.
Prints, DIY crafting kits and more, ends on the 30th.

Good luck!

Book to Movie Reading / Watching Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 14:40:00 +0000

First, thanks everyone who entered Books to Movies Giveaway! The winner is Ashley H. and she picked Dracula by Bram Stoker.
When participants shared their favorite movie adaptations in the comments, Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter were clearly standing out. I must admit that I was a bit surprised that so many girls chose LOTR. I was also pleasantly surprised that a great majority chose Atonement for their prize, although all other books were brand new. I guess that bookworms don't care that much if their books have been read by others before. :) I think I'll turn my radar on for more giveaway hops for used books.

Book to Movie Challenge

The reason I even started writing today's post is that I found another great challenge yesterday.

Book to Movie Challenge is hosted by ParaJunkee and challenges you to read 10 books and see their corresponding movies. I'm currently in the mood of reading books and watching their movie adaptations afterwards, so I found this challenge just at the right time. I'm also including books and movies I've already read or seen this year. I don't know if it's necessary to read the book before watching the movie. For now I'll pretend it isn't. Otherwise please correct me, ParaJunkee. ;)

My list (works to be read or watched are highlighted)

1. Atonement by Ian McEwan and Atonement by Joe Wright

2. Mansfield Park by Jane Austen and Mansfield Park by Patricia Rozema
3. Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen and Northanger Abbey by Jon Jones (click here for a mini review)
4. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and The Hunger Games by Gary Ross
5. The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris and The Silence of the Lambs by Jonathan Demme
6. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by David Fincher
7. Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami (reread) and Norwegian Wood by Tran Anh Hung
8. American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis and American Psycho by Mary Harron (rewatch)
9. Orlando by Virginia Woolf and Orlando by Sally Potter
10. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Completed on the last day of 2012. :)

Patrick Bateman, I love you

Current progress on other reading challenges

Haruki Murakami 10/10
Tea & Books 4/4
Dean Koontz 3/3 Odd Thomas' Mailman complete. :)
Ebook Challenge 25/25

Goodbye Summer Pt. 1

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sun, 16 Sep 2012 21:07:00 +0000

Being half human, half reptile, I can't even describe how much I'm going to miss summer. Photos were taken in Šobec. It was hot, beautiful and peaceful.

Shirt from Vikend Vintage (plus the secret to my shiny hair :P)

Bobby Pin from CandiWare Jewelry

What will you miss about the summer?

I will miss:
- walking around half naked
- reading books on veranda before sunset
- peaches, cherries and other summer fruit
- wearing sandals and light dresses
- swimming in the sea/lake
- sun bathing
- open air music and film festivals
- laying on the grass
- going out with wet hair
- thunderstorms

Natural Beauty or how I Went Bananas

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:44:00 +0000

I think I fell in love with my own hair. <3

I believe many of you already know Sonya Kanelstrand's inspiring blog. It resonates well with my love for simple and natural lifestyle. Recently she published her first book and asked me for a review. Keep reading if you're a fan of natural cosmetic recipes or you're simply interested in my results. Sonya is also giving away a copy for two of my readers!

About the Book

Banana Beauty is a beautifully designed e-book with 7 tested beauty recipes to treat acne, dry hair and skin, to reduce wrinkles and to minimize hair loss. All recipes are based on - you guessed it - bananas!

The Banana Beauty ebook includes:
- Detailed descriptions of the causes for most common skin and hair conditions.
- Information on the health benefits of applying banana in skin and hair treatment.
- Step-by-step instructions on how to make and apply each banana mask.
- 7 easy to make recipes that will save you hundreds of dollars a year.

The beauty recipes you will find in Banana Beauty will save you from the nasty chemicals found in commercial beauty products while rejuvenating and nourishing your skin and hair.

You can buy the book and find more detailed information here or on Etsy. I also created a page on Goodreads.

Acne Treatment With the Help of Banana Peels

I tried two recipes, one to treat acne with banana peels and one for a hair conditioner. You can find instructions for acne treatment on her blog too: How to Treat Acne. Let's see my results. No photoshop or make-up (except a light coat of mascara).

When I came back from my camping trip I got a major attack of acne. I always have a couple of pimples, but this time my face was in an awful state. I didn't do my usual cleaning routine when I was camping and I was dirty all the time. The climate was like in a desert (the wind was blowing and the sand got everywhere) so I couldn't do much about it. I was desperate - and I'm not even the type of woman to whine about her looks!
So I really needed powerful acne treatment and I faithfully massaged my face with banana peels - not to mention that I was always happy to have an excuse to eat a banana. :) Results depended on the seriousness of my acne - smaller pimples were cured in only a day (and disappeared in like two days), while the huge ones took me up to a week to recover. It is a bit time consuming if your case is more serious, but I found a way to multitask. :)

Verdict: No miracles (be patient, Maša!), but it is still the best home acne treatment I have tried. Ever. And I tried many 'clinically' proved products. I'm seriously not going to use store-bought products for acne treatment again.

BTW, if you have problems with blackheads, you have to try this simple soda scrub! Your skin will feel super clean afterwards. I've done several treatments so far and my skin looks so much cleaner. :happy:

Banana Hair Conditioner

I actually don't use a hair conditioner, only shampoo. I recently wanted to revive my hair color with henna. You're supposed to use hair conditioner after coloring hair, so this was a perfect opportunity to try Sonya's recipe. I was really impressed with the results.

First, I want to let you know that my hair was seriously damaged about a year and a half ago. I had a head injury and I lost a lot of blood. I had to cut my long hair, but I also got anemic. One of the consequences of iron deficiency is hair loss (more than it's normal). So it took me a long time to recover my hair beauty. After trying this natural recipe I was beyond happy to see my hair looking so shiny and healthy!

Verdict: Banana conditioner blew me away! It was nice to put it on my hair - it smelled wonderful and had such a pleasant cooling effect on my scalp. When my hair dried, it felt so light and soft, kinda fluffy but glossy at the same time. I wanted to touch it all the time. :D Not to mention all the compliments... ;) I can't wait to try it again! It's honestly amazing.

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a copy to review. I take pride in writing honest reviews, so this is my real opinion about the product. I included one affiliate link in this post.

Books to Movies

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 22:00:00 +0000

Two bookish giveaways in one day? I really must be going bananas! I actually silently promised to myself that I won't be joining another giveaway hop for a while, but I couldn't NOT join Books to Movies. I'm a huge fan of both books and movies, so what could I do? ;)

One winner will have a choice of one of the following books. I chose my favorite books that were adapted into movies. OK, I admit I haven't read them all yet, but I loved the films. :)

Prize 1: Atonement by Ian McEwan | Used by me, but in good condition. International shipping.

Prize 2: Dracula by Bram Stoker | New, shipped by TBD, available to these countries.

Prize 3: Great Expectations by Charles Dickens | New, shipped by TBD, available to these countries.

Prize 4: Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen | New, shipped by TBD, available to these countries.

Enter the form bellow to join:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I have another bookish giveaway going on, click here if you're interested.

And don't forget to visit other participants:

Crazy Cat Ladies Meet #6

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 15:04:00 +0000

This is a weekly social meeting where I share my favorite links (=hopefully inspiring resources) & crafty giveaways (always international friendly!) I recently found around the web. I also share random thoughts while brewing a virtual coffee for you.

New this week: I'll participate in Alyx's Sunday Confessions link up for the first time. But I don't want to talk too much about myself, so I will only write one confession a week (if I don't count monthly Let's get Physical!).

There is another thing I was thinking about... We all have those someday to-do lists with piles of things we want to do, but we keep postponing them, because they are not as important as eating and washing yourself. So I thought I would challenge myself every week to work on something I keep neglecting. There will be something different every week, but will include anything from organization to leisure time. You are welcome to join me if this week's challenge resonates with you.

Sunday Confession

I'm getting more certain every day that I will never have my own kids. I know that this a silly thing to say (I cannot predict my life in 2017) but my feelings are very intense on this topic. My role of a kinda step-father is driving me crazy. I don't know if this is because of my psychological problems and if it is possible to change, but my perfect life consists of solitude and silence 23/7. I just don't think everyone can be a family person. I feel exhausted and trapped in a life situation I didn't choose. I didn't intend to talk about it on my blog, but I'm losing control. I had to get it off my chest.

Is there anyone else who prefers to live alone instead with a family? Or am I a crazy person?

Link Love

Did you like to read Choose your own adventure books as a kid? If your answer is yes, you will love Therese's post about Making the Hardest Decision of your life.

This one was my favorite! :)

SillyGirl posted Basic HTML every blogger should know. Quite helpful for tech n00bs!

Creative Giveaways

A bracelet from Homeless Bros, Sunglasses Legend in the zebrawood from the Russian brand of handmade glasses Woodsun or the bow-tie from Engineer Garin, ends on September the 10th.

Apron Pattern from modernvintagedesigns.etsy.com, ends on 11th.

$25 Gift Card from revolvingstyles.etsy.com, ends on 12th.

Item of choice ($45 or less) from Plumed.Etsy.com, ends on 13th.

Little Red Riding Hood Spoon Ring in Sterling Silver from Spoonier.etsy.com, ends on 14th. International winner agrees to pay shipping expenses, but those are nothing compared to the awesomeness of the prize. :)

Fine Silver Zombie Necklace from MissFiendishApparel.etsy.com, ends on 15th.

Anti-Procrastination Challenge

From Monday to Friday: set half an hour every day for a blog layout makeover.
Possibilities: reorganize categories, update About Me page, edit your template, create a new header, etc.
Will you join me? :)

Let's get Physical! (Plus Exclusive Photo of my abs :D)

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 19:29:00 +0000

Today I'm linking with the first ever Let's get Physical link-up, hosted by my friend Evani. This blog party is for encouraging each other to get healthier, fitter and overcome obstacles that challenge us on the way.

I followed Evani's template but I'm going to add a bonus fitness tip that helped me to become prouder of my body. I'm more or less satisfied with my diet and physical condition (much better than it used to be!), but I also have several weaknesses, so there is always something to improve. ;)

Bonus #1: Fitness tip of the month

I don't count calories or ignore cravings. This would just make me feel frustrated. Instead I try to choose healthier alternatives. Like eating banana ice cream instead of a regular one, munching nuts and dried fruit instead of chips and cookies, etc. Chocolate-Covered Katie has an awesome collection of recipes for healthy & delicious desserts. I also eat lots of fruit. Fitness enthusiasts limit daily intake of fruit, but I think it's ridiculous to limit something healthy because it contains sugar. Eating for a fit and healthy body doesn't mean we shouldn't enjoy food. Right? :)

Bonus #2: Photo of my hidden abs

It took me a while to decide if I should post a photo of my body or not. Is it appropriate? Is it narcissistic? Will people judge me? Should I show my whole body or just one part? And so on. People often take photos of themselves in swim wear when they start a new challenge. So I thought it could be motivational to start this monthly check-up with a photo. I think I'll be more motivated to get in better shape this way. I actually look better today than I did in my teens and I don't obsess about having a perfect body. But then I thought... if I'm dreaming big about my business path, why don't I set higher goals elsewhere too?

I never even dared to dream about having a ripped body (and honestly I don't care about a little fat here and there). So my new ambitious goal is to define those abs. Of course its not all about the looks. I'll need a better physical condition and more balanced diet to survive all the hard work that awaits me in the next year. ;)

Last but not least, my role model Zuzana. I follow (=work out) her weekly videos and she motivates me to get a stronger body, even when I have a super busy day. She also has the nicest personality ever. But I decided to keep my A-cup. :blush:

Source

Need more motivation? Visit other participants here!

Green Shopping

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 17:16:00 +0000

I'm so excited (and I just can't hide it) that my blog was featured on Best of the Web by PocketChange, a blog packed with neat lifestyle ideas and shopping advice. I found several really unique blogs through their past weekly features. If you're reading this you may like other featured blogs as well. :)

You can find various lifestyle categories on their blog, everything from fashion to pets. If you've been following me for a while, you'll guess that my favorite is the Be Green Eco Blog. ;)

Some of my favorite posts - obviously I love talking about the benefits of things being organic and recycled :D

The benefits of choosing organic cotton fabric

Benefits of using organic soaps

The benefits of Yoga

The benefits of using recycled paper products

Do you care about making green shopping decisions?

I don't really like shopping (handmade goodies are an exception), but it cannot be avoided forever. I'm on a constant lookout for greener solutions, although I can't always afford them. And I'm not going to buy something if I can (and have time to) make it myself.

Crazy Cat Ladies Meet #5

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 16:49:00 +0000

On making big life changes

I found the most amazing blogger this week! He's the 30 year old ninja. Seriously. He also wants to help people who are struggling with making their dreams a reality. You can find lots of helpful posts and free resources on his blog. So check it out if you need some motivation or guidance. He's also very kind and replies to emails & comments. His advice is very practical and applicable. Here is one of my favorite posts. Go visit him and say hi! :)

B'sue also wrote a great post on making wise decisions about your creative business.

Have you seen my naked pic? I've (metaphorically) done it for The Unlost. Come join the movement and check Therese's inspiring video about the weirdest day of her life while you're there. She rocks! :)

Giveaways for creative cat ladies

Gigantic gift pack of Merchandise (A variety of over 90 mini cards and note cards!), ending soon, very soon.
$50 Gift Certificate to Lisa Leonard Designs, ends on September 4th.
1-Year Membership to Bobbledy Books, an independent book/music publisher. That includes 3 children's books, a make-your-own book, a birthday card, a Bobbledy Blob (a five headed crayon) and an album of kid's music. Ends on the 5th.
30 Days of Free Advertising on AwfulMedia.com, ends on the 6th.
Unique hand-dyed fiber bracelet by studiodesiree.etsy.com, ends on the 7th.
Autumn Bead Soup for Jewelry Making from MayaHoney.etsy.com, ends on the 8th.
Any Two Colors of Temporary Colored Hair Gel from ShareeBoutique.etsy.com, ends on the 9th.

Good luck and have a happy week! :)

August was... for Jane Austen!

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 15:48:00 +0000

I've been passively participating in Jane Austen reading event for the last two weeks. I'm not a huge fan of hers but I did enjoy reading two of her books and watching two movie adaptations. I love all the details of everyday life and how elegantly fluent conversations of the heroes and heroines are. I like that Austen shamelessly attacked society stereotypes of her time. However, her morals are still quite conservative and her romantic happy endings drive me nuts. Not because they would be ridiculously pathetic but because she is playing with female feelings so well. She makes me wanna forget my emancipation ambitions and search for a wealthy husband who will buy me a library. :D

Northanger Abbey is my favorite so far, maybe because it parodies gothic romances. An absolutely delightful read!

I'm just finishing Mansfield Park. It was interesting to read about the heroine because I'm close to a woman who is very similar to her. However, she is starting to get a little annoying at the end. :P

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I actually liked this movie adaptation of Pride and Prejudice better than the TV series I mentioned in Top 10 Period Dramas. Photography is stunning and I always enjoy watching Keira Knightley in antique costumes. :)

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Aren't they both beautiful? :) Northanger Abbey was very charming to watch (it passed so quickly!), but some details could be better explained for those who haven't read the book.

It was also interesting to see now famous Carey Mulligan portrayed as a silly character in both adaptations. :)

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Do you recognize Jena Malone aka Gretchen Ross (used to be my internet nick) from Donnie Darko? :)

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How do you feel about Jane Austen?

Have you read any books by her or seen any adaptations?

Which one is your favorite?

Crazy Cat Ladies Meet #4

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sun, 26 Aug 2012 15:06:00 +0000

Eeek, September is near. Do not want! How about you?

Handmade giveaways you will love

Cranberry pin, blueberry necklace and postcards by My White Room, ends tomorrow.
Handmade earrings of winner's choice from Trinkets by Dana, ends on August 28th.
A pair of organic bud sterling silver stud earrings by Metamorphosis Metals, ends on 29th.
Blogger or handmade shop owner prize package, valued at $135, ends on 30th.
Amazing handmade doll by Masha Brick, ends on 31st.
Vintage gun shaped pocket knife necklace, color of your choosing, ends on September 1st.

Creative resources

I want this costume

6 Truths About Promoting Your Handmade Shop or: Handmade businesses are like sharks.
John Cleese on creativity. He knows what he's talking about.
6 Tips to Help Your Creative Business Bloom. Are you still waiting for the right moment?
Have you ever wondered how costumes in animation are made? I have to see Brave.

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Pay it Forward... Handmade

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sat, 25 Aug 2012 19:02:00 +0000

There is this meme going on and I'm joining the fun - I just couldn't let it pass! I joined on Tanyia's blog Domestic deficit disorder.

Here are the rules:

I will send a surprise gift to the first three commenters on this post. The gift will be a handmade surprise by me and I will send it to you sometime in the next 365 days. All you need to do is the following:

Leave me a comment and include your email address (if you profile doesn’t link back) so I can get in touch with you about your mailing address and some other information about yourself.

To complete signing up, you must play along too by blogging a similar post and pledging to make a surprise for the first 3 people who comment on it.

So, do you want to play along? Comment below, and I’ll send a thoughtful gift to the first three people who do.

Let's pay it forward to one another! I'm quite curious who is going to comment as many of you are on a vacation now. :)

Crazy Cat Ladies Meet #3

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sun, 19 Aug 2012 22:51:00 +0000

I'm slowly returning back to reality. Here is a sneak peak of what I've been doing these days... Additional posts will follow eventually. :)

Sleeping (among other things) in Ozora

Selling old books in the park

Visiting urban events

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Oh, you're here for the giveaways? Of course I'm not gonna let you down! Here's this week's pick. Good luck!

Blue Jersey Capelet by Janey Clothing, ends on August 20th.
Set of His & Hers custom cuff bracelets by Michelle Verbeeck, ends on 21st.
A $40 gift certificate by Misala, ends on 22nd.
Handmade Surprise Topsy Turvy 2-in-1 Cinderella Doll by Castle of Costa Mesa, ends on 23rd.
A pair of custom made high waisted cat tapestry shorts by Meanzchan, ends on 24th.
$25 to spend at Kibbles 'N Knits on Etsy, ends on 26th.

Unplugged

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sat, 04 Aug 2012 20:20:00 +0000

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If I'm not commenting and answering emails, that's why. I'll be away from the internet for the next ten days (at least). That's because I'm too busy dancing and observing nature at the Ozora music festival in Hungary. ^^

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If you're curious, watch the official video or read my post from the last year. PLUR

Crazy Cat Ladies Meet #2

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sun, 29 Jul 2012 16:28:00 +0000

Handmade giveaways you shouldn't miss

My friend Lisa Isabella Russo is giving away free print of choice. Her art is gorgeous! Ends on 7/30.

Gourmet Gift Set from the Milk & Honey Naturals Shop, worth over $100. I've tried their products myself and I highly recommend them. Ends on 7/31.

Vintage Brooch by Rae of Light, ends on 8/1.

Jane Austen Cameo Necklace, ends on 8/2.

Flower Gemstone Earrings, ends on 8/3.

An Adjustable Starfish Ring, ends on 8/4.

Daisy Hair Pins by SpearmintAndThyme, ends on 8/5.

Good luck! :)

My fresh reading list

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1. Have you ever tried to make your own deodorant? Maybe you should give this recipe a try - I will. :)

2. Share your favorite book and win a retro camera! Which is your favorite book? I can't decide between Jane Eyre, Norwegian Wood and Lord of the Flies.

3. Marie Forleo gives great advice on scheduling if you work from home. Do you need to follow a schedule to get things done? Personally, it really helps me with productivity and life balancing.

4. Do you remember when I wrote about Willard Asylum Suitcases? I think this one is my favorite so far. I love the lady's craft supplies and all those little details.

5. Have you seen Batman yet? I loved it and I'm not even a fan of action movies. Christian Bale is one of my favorite actors and Anne Hathaway surprised me very positively as a catwoman. Here you can read how she was preparing for the role and decided to go vegan. You have to see the movie!

Re-pinned by others

1. Photography: Cheapo lens

2. Photography: Purple flowers

3. Food: Healthy oatmeal recipes

4. DIY: Calypso St. Barth Knock Off

5. DIY: Missoni sneakers

Have a superb week!

I Made a Necklace From old T-shirts

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 18:02:00 +0000

Wanna see? Click on over to the Small Good Things blog (I'm sure you remember the girl with the awesome Anthro Knockoff, right?) and have a look at my latest tutorial: Upcycle Old T-shirts into Jewelry.

P. S. We have the winner of No Strings Attached Giveaway: Holly. Congrats! :)

Crazy Cat Ladies Meet

noreply@blogger.com (Maša) — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 22:10:00 +0000

Welcome! I was getting a little bored with my weekly roundup of giveaways, so I was thinking I could extend it into more social friendly feature. Blog love weeklies are quite popular and everyone likes to check out web findings of other "think-alikes". I'll stay on the lookout for handmade giveaways, but I will also share my favorite reads from the previous week. Note: I'm sometimes slow on catching up, so I may also post older links if I think they are very interesting or/and useful. Last but not least comes a quick summary of my most repinned images. I hope you'll find something that will catch your fancy.

Szarka has generously offered a $50 gift certificate to one lucky winner, ends on July 23rd.

A surprise gift bag full of jewelry (earrings, necklace, choker, bracelet and hair accessories), ends on July 24th.

Black Lace Capelet, ends on July 25th.

A Toadstool Cape, Newborn Dress and Bloomers, Plaid Bloomers and Plaid Skirt, ends on July 26th.

Jewelry, Hair Accessories, Lip Balm, ends on July 28th.

Zebra Triangle Earrings, ends on July 29th.

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My reading list, fresh from the oven

1. Did you ever notice how boring keyboards are? Sue has a great idea for pimpin' your keyboard.

2. Suki took part in a creative project. Have you ever wondered how other people's fridges look?

3. Great tips on working from home without losing your mind.

4. I loved craft books video review by Miss Beatrix.

5. Hila, one of my favorite bloggers, celebrates the publishing of her latest book Cultural Afterlives and Screen Adaptations of Classic Literature: Wuthering Heights and Company. Bravo! :)

Recommended by dust bunnies

1. Clever and cute. How to Turn a Glove into a Chipmunk.

Neat sites

1. I discovered a free online photo editing program that made me delete Picasa. It's very simple to use and includes all the features I need for my blogging purposes. PicMonkey.

2. My favorite online paint application so far. It makes me feel I can actually make pretty drawings with my mouse! I used both pages for my latest tutorial.

Loved by pinners

1. Cat feet

2. The ships are coming (and so are the fish)

3. Vegan Summer: Mini Apple Strudels

4. 8 Uses For Old Coffee Grounds

5. DIY Knotted Quatrefoil Bracelet

Happy winning, creating, baking and reading!