Little Tranquility

What Birds Do When We Aren't Looking

2012-03-15T22:11:00.003-04:00

I love Marc Johns. His drawings are so simple & unique.

I really love this little mini series he did about birds and thought I'd share. :)

xo,

Amanda

Easy Peasy Vegan Chocolate Cake

2012-03-14T19:37:00.009-04:00

I like sweets more than normal food. It's bad. Andrew says I have the diet of an Oompa Loompa and my roommates always joke about how often I crave cookies. I can't help it! My teeth will probably fall out or rot way before they should, but it will be so worth it.

That being said, I made a chocolate cake the other night, and it was completely vegan! I want to show you how simple it is to make delicious vegan sweets that will surely please everyone, so here's another step-by-step recipe. Enjoy!

This is all you need for the cake. (Plus water.)

Certain cake mixes are already vegan, you just have to read the ingredients. Since dark chocolate is made with real cocoa and not milk, Duncan Hines Dark Chocolate Fudge cake mix is Vegan until you add the eggs yourself. This mix calls for three large eggs, but that's where this lovely box of Egg Replacer comes in handy!

I followed the directions on the box which told me to add the water and oil to the cake mix.

Separately, I prepared the Egg Replacer.

1 egg = 1 1/2 tsp dry Egg Replacer plus 2 tbsp warm water.

So for this cake, I used 4 1/2 tsp dry Egg Replacer and 6 tbsp warm water.

After the Egg Replacer was mixed thoroughly, I added it to the cake mix.

Weeeeee!

I popped it in the oven and let it bake for a little over 30 minutes.

While it was in there, I made Vegan frosting!

Oooo-ahhhh.

I had a recipe for vegan chocolate frosting from this book. I got it on Amazon not too long ago but I don't really use it all that often. This frosting is suuuuper good though, so I'm excited to try out some more recipes very soon.

2 ounces bitter or semi-sweet chocolate

(If you're ounce-challenged like I am, 2 ounces = 1/4 cup)

1/2 cup margarine, softened

(I use Earth Balance for all of my vegan cooking. You can find it at most grocery stores.)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/3 to 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted

2 tablespoons milk

(I used vanilla soy milk, but I'm sure original or lite will also work just fine.)

In a large bowl, cream together chocolate and margarine.

Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until mixture is a little crumbly.

(I used a strainer to sift the powdered sugar into the bowl I placed below it.)

It may feel like it will never come together, but don't give up on it!

It's very messy... :)

Add just enough milk to make frosting smooth to desired consistency.

Yummmm.

And that's that.

Don't forget to let the cake cool completely before frosting it!

This cake was a huge hit in my house. Everyone loved it. I really enjoy baking for people; it brings me so much joy. Is that cheesy?? Oh well, it's true! The main reason I love vegan baking is because I find it interesting and I like the challenge. I love surprising people who automatically assume vegan desserts can't be delicious just because they're vegan. That word scares people for some reason...

Anyway, I also like being able to feed Kendal. I'd feel terrible making non-vegan desserts all the time that she couldn't have, haha.

Let me know if you try this recipe or if you have something similar you'd like me to try.

I'd love some requests!

Happy Pi day, by the way. ;)

xo,

Amanda

Friday Favorites // 03.09

2012-03-09T18:26:00.004-05:00

Happy Friday!
Wow - this week flew by!!
One of these pins is a photo I took. Can you guess which one it is?? :)

Source: mth2011.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: eshakti.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: 11thirtyeight.tumblr.com via Gee on Pinterest

Source: tincantourists.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: piccsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: forever21.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: thisisliv.blogspot.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: jcrew.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: hongkiat.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: img1.etsystatic.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: ravelry.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: slayground.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: awelltraveledwoman.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: bleubirdvintage.typepad.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: polyvore.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: cutestfood.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: llbwwb.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Have a lovely weekend!

xo,
Amanda

Etsy Map of Sales

2012-03-08T22:35:00.004-05:00

I thought it would be fun to make a map of all of the places I've sent packages over the past four or so years just for Etsy orders. I've had a little under 400 sales since I opened my shop, and I hope that number continues to grow as my shop grows. (I have big plans this summer!)

We shall see! Anywho, I think the map turned out pretty cool. Yay, maps!. :)

xo,
Amanda

Super Easy, Yummy, Vegan Veggie Pasta

2012-03-07T20:01:00.016-05:00

Something you should know about me is that I don't really cook all that often. I do super easy things, or Andrew feeds me. He's a natural and I love watching him cook. He has so much passion and always knows what season or spice to use and is really great at combining flavors. I don't think I'm necessarily a bad cook, I just don't have that natural instinct like he does. (He also has a ton of experience since he's done it forever, and I have zero experience because I've never really tried.) If I plan to make something, I usually follow a recipe step-by-step. Or I give up and order Chinese food.

This is probably one of the only things I make on occasion that I don't follow a recipe for. I just guess and change up the ingredients from time to time and it always turns out really tasty. I thought I'd share it with others like me who are looking for something quick and easy to make any night of the week that requires absolutely no experience in the kitchen. :)

Here are the ingredients I used tonight:

- Half of a yellow onion

- Two cloves of garlic

- Half of a yellow squash

- Half of a zucchini

- One Tofurky Kielbasa link

- Olive oil, sea salt and pepper (not pictured)

- A little over half a box of Rigatoni noodles (because they're my favorite)

- A little over half a jar of Newman's Sweet Onion & Roasted Garlic sauce

(Try mixing this up and using mushrooms, carrots, tomatoes, and any other veggies you like! The sauce is also fun to play with. Try plain tomato paste, or spicy pepper sauce. There are so many great, easy options at any grocery store!)

-------------------------------------------------------

1. Fill a big pot with water and bring to a boil. While you're waiting for the water to boil, start chopping up the garlic and onion.

2. Get a medium sized pan and pour a bit of olive oil in it. After it heats up, add the chopped garlic and onion. By this point, the water in your pot should be boiling. Add the noodles.

3. As the garlic and onions simmer, cut up the squash and zucchini and add the pieces to the pan. Add a bit of salt & pepper if you'd like.

4. Let those sit for a bit and start cutting the Tofurky. Your noodles should be almost done. (Rigatoni usually takes about 11 minutes.) Add the Tofurky to the pan.

5. When the noodles are done, drain them and set aside. When you think your Tofurky, squash and zucchini look ready to eat, take the noodles and dump them right on top in the pan. Add the sauce.

6. Now, mix, mix, mix and enjoy!

Pretty brain-less, right??

It's quick & yummy, every time, and so much better than simply adding a jar of sauce to noodles! Booooring.

Hope this helps spice up your lazy noodles & sauce night!

I am ashamed to admit how quickly I devoured that bowl... :)

xo,

Amanda

Friday Favorites // 03.02

2012-03-02T08:12:00.003-05:00

Happy March!

Here are some of my favorites this week on Pinterest.

Source: bohemeextreme.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: justafewofemilysfavoritethings.blogspot.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: weheartit.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: anthropologie.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: atticmag.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: aubreymassey.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: aquieterstorm.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: alifeofblue.blogspot.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: blogs.babble.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: prepfection.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: marthastewart.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: mykitchenaddiction.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: anthropologie.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: emmalamb.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

via Amanda on Pinterest

xo,

Amanda

Wes Anderson

2012-03-01T17:40:00.004-05:00

Wes Anderson rules.

Love, love love.

I can't wait to see Moonrise Kingdom.

I really want to have a Wes Anderson marathon...

Who's with me?

xo,

Amanda

Instagram Overload

2012-02-29T19:41:00.008-05:00

I attempted the "Feb Photo a Day" Instagram challenge this month but I must admit that I didn't last very long. It's not only because I kept forgetting, but it's also because my phone was slowly dying. It would shut off all the time on its own and close apps while I was using them and run out of space for photos constantly, so I lost patience with it quite often.

It recently took its last breath and died in my hands (for good) so I caved and got a new one over the weekend. Though I wasn't planning on buying one so soon, I'm pretty happy I did. Having a full-functioning phone again is amazing, plus, I was due for an upgrade anyway since it has been two years since I purchased my old one.

Also, I like Siri. She's sassy.

Here are some photos from the beginning of February, when I was still doing the challenge every day.

1. Your view today: Obama's motorcade drove by my office!

2. Words: Went out to dinner with my roommates at a Mexican restaurant.

3. Hands: Kristin writing notes for me at work.

4. A Stranger: Split some vegan pizza with Kendal at Lost Dog Cafe and captured this nice man.

5. 10am: Mia napping in the sun.

6. Dinner: Chipotle with Andrew on his first night back in DC. :)

7. Button: My winter jacket.

8. Sun: Caught it just in time.

-------------------------------------------------------

Here are a few others from my phone:

Andrew and Brian, two of my favorite guys in the same place at the same time!

Visited the Washington Monument on a beautiful 64 degree day.

Sleepy Sierra.

I'm pretty much obsessed with this game.

Felt like making a vegan chocolate cake one night. I had a recipe for vegan frosting, too. It was delicious and I'm sure I'll be making it again in the near future.

I hadn't tried anything on at Anthropologie since I started working there in January, so I came in and played dress-up one day when it was slow.

I love too many things and can't afford them, so not trying them on saves me from feeling sad. Oh how I wish I could have this dress!

Andrew was puppy-sitting a very cuddly, goofy pup for awhile. We like her.

Yum. Reminds me of Anguilla!

Vegan cupcake from Sticky Fingers Bakery in DC. I love that place.

My parents sent this to me in an email on Valentine's Day. They're the best.

Tomorrow I'll be trying this again and starting the March Photo a Day Challenge.

Join me on Instagram @amanda_face!

Here's to a happy March!

xo,

Amanda

Field Notes: Red Blooded

2012-02-28T23:51:00.008-05:00

This is love.

Field Notes: Red Blooded from Coudal Partners on Vimeo.

xo,

Amanda

Friday Favorites // 02.24

2012-02-24T17:49:00.004-05:00

Here are some of my favorites this week on Pinterest!

Source: retrorenovation.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: lisastorms.typepad.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: abeautifulmess.typepad.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: asos.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: retrorenovation.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: intimateweddings.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: revolveclothing.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: favim.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: ruffledblog.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: images.piccsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: theberry.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: ninkwinse.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Have a great weekend!

xo,

Amanda

On Sharing

2012-02-23T22:23:00.009-05:00

After receiving such positive feedback from the people who used to read and keep up with my old blog, I decided I'd start out fresh with this one and write about my new life on the east coast. It wasn't something I had intended to do, but once I started, I couldn't stop.

It's exciting being away from everyone you love, and getting the chance to share your life with them through words and pictures. Some people might think it's silly or excessive, but I think sharing is beautiful, and I feel boring and uncreative when I don't have something in front of me to prove I'm alive and living and happy. I want to say, "Look, look what I did today!" and show the world what I've created. Maybe that's my inner 5-year-old talking, but I just want to feel proud of my life. I want it to mean something. I want proof that I existed and enjoyed every minute of it.

Why do musicians share their music? Why do artists create portfolios? Why do authors write books? Why do cooks share their recipes? We all want to matter, don't we? We want to prove that we were here. Look, listen, admire, taste. This is what we've done. These are our creations.

Source: stilinspiration.blogspot.com via Claudia on Pinterest

And so, here I am, doing just that and sharing my life with those who care to read about it. Nothing means more to me than that. It takes a second to flip through an album on Facebook, but a blog is different. It feels more honest to me, and more meaningful, so thank you for taking the time to visit me here, and for caring enough to share your thoughts and feelings with me in return. It really means a lot.

That being said, I have two friends flying in from Wisconsin tomorrow and I'm more than excited to see them. Sharing my new city with them for a few days is going to be so much fun. So many adventures are a-brewin' and I know I will have plenty of photo posts to come.

Life is a beautiful thing, and far too exciting to keep to myself. I will do everything in my power to live my life to the fullest and continue shouting, "Look! Come see what I saw today!" and share my feelings to the best of my ability.

I just hope you'll do the same.

xo,

Amanda

The Book Surgeon

2012-02-20T21:02:00.005-05:00

I found something pretty spectacular tonight and feel compelled to share. I can't stop staring at these photos! This guy is so, so talented.

Using knives, tweezers and surgical tools, Brian Dettmer carves one page at a time. Nothing inside the out-of-date encyclopedias, medical journals, illustration books, or dictionaries is relocated or implanted, only removed.

Dettmer manipulates the pages and spines to form the shape of his sculptures. He also folds, bends, rolls, and stacks multiple books to create completely original sculptural forms.

"My work is a collaboration with the existing material and its past creators and the completed pieces expose new relationships of the book’s internal elements exactly where they have been since their original conception," he says.

"The richness and depth of the book is universally respected yet often undiscovered as the monopoly of the form and relevance of the information fades over time. The book’s intended function has decreased and the form remains linear in a non-linear world. By altering physical forms of information and shifting preconceived functions, new and unexpected roles emerge."

Dettmer is originally from Chicago, where he studied at Columbia College. He currently lives and works in Atlanta, GA.

Originally posted here.Read more about Brian and his work here.
xo,Amanda

Red Dress, Red Dress, How I Adore Thee

2012-02-18T10:19:00.005-05:00

Since I started working at Anthropologie, I haven't really tried anything on. I've only drooled from a safe distance, mostly for a good reason...

Sometimes playing dress-up is fun.

But sometimes it's sad...

Oh, red dress, what can I do to afford you?

Some day you will be mine.

Just you wait and see.

xo,

Amanda

Friday Favorites // 02.17

2012-02-17T10:07:00.005-05:00

It's Friday already?? Here are some of my favorites this week!

Source: facebook.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: afinidades-eletivas.blogspot.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: modcloth.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: 2.bp.blogspot.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: redbenchvintage.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: vivaterra.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: someecards.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: louisebody.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: tobi.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: weheartit.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: 500px.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: bodenusa.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: gravityisallthereis.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: je-veux-ta-vengeance.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: tattoologist.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: kyliefaye.deviantart.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: peoplewebs.blogspot.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: ffffound.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: bitter--sweet.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

xo,

Amanda

Emile Hirsch, Route 66

2012-02-16T19:30:00.004-05:00

I'm a big Emile Hirsch fan and as a result, I'm subscribed to his YouTube channel. I received an email a few days ago informing me that he posted a new video. I was excited to check it out!

Unlike his last video which showed him tripping on the drugs he was given after having his wisdom teeth removed, this one is more on the serious side and had a lot of heart. It reminds me so much of a situation I was in about a year ago, and it made me wonder how many people go through something like this at one point or another in their lives. Humans are strange creatures.

As different as we are, we're all the same.

Written, Directed, and Starring Emile Hirsch.
Photography by John Inserra.
Shot on Location in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

P.S. The winner of the Marty May giveaway was Harley&Jane! Congrats, ladies! :)

Baked Apple Pies

2012-02-15T17:31:00.006-05:00

If you're a follower of my blog, or have just recently stumbled upon it, something I'm sure you've noticed is how serious my addiction is with Pinterest.

I just love it, probably a little too much. It's so lovely! There are cute things, funny things, interesting things, beautiful things, delicious things, and creative things. It gives me so many ideas and really gets my creative juices flowing.

What's better than that??

After browsing through hundreds of incredible desserts on Pinterest, I found a baked apple pie recipe that made my mouth water. I love apple desserts. They usually include brown sugar and cinnamon which I love more than most things. The combination of those three things is one of my all time favorite flavors, so I had to give this recipe a try.

It was originally posted here.

** Recipe makes 4 baked apples **

Ingredients:
+ 5-6 Granny Smith Apples

(Make sure they can stand on their own!)

+ 1 Teaspoon Cinnamon
+ 1/4 Cup Sugar
+ 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
+ Pie Crust
(Homemade or Pre-made)

Step 1. Cut off the tops of 4 apples and discard. Remove the inside of each apple with a spoon or melon baller very carefully, as to not puncture the peel.

If you’re a skilled interior apple excavator, salvage as much as you can so you can use it for Step 2.

Step 2. Remove skin from remaining apple(s) and slice very thinly. These apple pieces will give you the additional filling needed to fill the four apples you are baking.

Step 3. Mix sliced apples with sugars and cinnamon in a bowl. If you prefer more or less cinnamon make adjustments as desired. Same goes for the sugar.

Step 4. Scoop sliced apples into hollow apples.

Step 5. Roll out pie crust and slice into 1/4 inch strips. You can also add a strip of pastry inside the top of the apple almost like a liner to add a little more texture/sweetness to the pie. Cover the top of the apple in a lattice pattern with pie crust strips.

(We skipped this step since we didn't use crust. I wanted to make these vegan so that Kendal could eat them, but I wasn't having much luck making vegan pie crust. I found recipes, but was lacking in a few necessities.)

Step 6: Place apples in an 8×8 pan. Add just enough water to the cover the bottom of the pan. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and sliced apples are soft.

I guess you can't really tell, but this is what they look like when you take them out!

And this is what happens when you cut into them...

Yummmmmmm.

They were really yummy, and soooo good warm, just out of the oven. I definitely think a nice crust would have made them even better, and adding ice cream or whipped cream would have been divine!

Next time...

Let me know if you end up trying the recipe!

I'd love to hear how yours turn out. :)

xo,

Amanda

Friday Favorites // 02.10

2012-02-10T17:19:00.003-05:00

Here are some of my favorite things this week on Pinterest. :)

Source: elsita.typepad.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: tattoologist.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: houseofturquoise.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: anothermag.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: chrisanthemums.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: sincerelykinsey.blogspot.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: urbanoutfitters.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: sundaygirl.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: images.coolspotters.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: lifes-a-journal.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: iwastesomuchtime.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: designismine.blogspot.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Happy Friday!

xo,

Amanda

Ruche Guest Blogger!

2012-02-09T22:16:00.006-05:00

I got an email tonight from Ruche informing me that I'm their newest guest blogger!

How exciting!

I contacted them awhile ago with my story about how I met Andrew.

Here's what they had to say about it:

"Thank you so much for submitting your story! We absolutely adore it and just featured you in our countdown to Valentine's Day. :) "

They also sent me a guest blogger badge and welcomed me to the Ruche Blogger Family. Aw. :)

This definitely made my night.

Thanks, Ruche!

You can read the story on Ruche here.

I had to edit it a bit before sending it to them, so it's a bit shorter than my original post.

If you're interested, you can read the original here.

xo,

Amanda

Free Glasses!

2012-02-05T14:52:00.005-05:00

I must share an exciting offer with you if you're a glasses/contact-wearer like me!

I was reading Leney's blog one day and she posted some info about a site called Coastal Contacts where you can get a super cheap pair of glasses.

(And by super cheap I mean free.)

All you have to do is pay for shipping!

There really isn't a catch, believe it or not. The only thing is that your first pair is free, so if you've purchased from them in the past, I'm not sure if this offer applies to you.

But if you're looking for some new frames and haven't purchased anything from Coastal before, you should definitely check it out!

I purchased a pair of $6.00 glasses for myself and though I'm not over the moon about them, I really can't complain.

My old red ones are looking a little sad, so it's really nice having a spare pair. :)

I should also mention that their return policy is awesome. I sent two pairs back before I finally settled on the ones I have now. They send you a shipping label to print out, so you don't even have to pay to ship them back if you aren't satisfied.

So run over to Coastal Contacts and get your free pair!

Use the code: FIRSTPAIRFREE at checkout and you're all set!

xo,
Amanda

Friday Favorites // 02.03

2012-02-03T16:02:00.004-05:00

It's a beautiful day today in DC.

Mia is basking in the sun and looking oh-so-pretty. :)

Here are some of my favorite things this week!

Source: juicy-bits.typepad.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: book-slut.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: modcloth.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: amandanisbetdesign.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: fernandovicente.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: 7onashoestring.com via Heather on Pinterest

Source: parisapartment.wordpress.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: ohreneedesign.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: cargocollective.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: flickriver.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: cottagemommy.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: aubreyrd.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: ferm-living.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: 29.media.tumblr.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Source: honestlywtf.com via Amanda on Pinterest

xo,

Amanda

Etsy Interviews V.2 // Marty from Marty May Press & Stitchery

2012-02-01T18:07:00.010-05:00

I fell in love with Marty's shop the second I saw it, so I knew I had to interview her!

She's super nice, and wants to do a giveaway as well!

(Details are near the bottom of the post.)

Name: Marty May

Shop name: Marty May Press & Stitchery

Age:26

Octopus Tee

1. What is your first memory associated with art?

My very first memory was of being a child trying to draw one of those pictures that you transfer into a grid and my older brother was so much better then me. Though, I do have very fond memories of doodling with my friends at sleepovers and such, always covering sheets of paper with new patterns.

Windup Bear Tee

2. When did you realize you wanted to create & sell your one-of-a-kind pieces?

About five years ago, I was living in Los Angeles, working for Whole Foods and being treated with absolutely no respect. I tried to make the best of the situation and one thing that brought me great joy was sewing my own clothes and making stencils. My coworkers started wanting to buy what I was wearing and I heard about Etsy. I gave it a shot and I've been growing ever since. I bought a screen printing press four years ago and switched to water based ink last year. My wares are in fourteen shops now and growing!

Mustache Wallet

3. What inspires you?

My loving boyfriend often inspires me, as well as my creative friends. Nature is a huge influence, as I think it is to most artists.

Seahorse Cardigan

4. What is your all-time favorite item that you've created?

My favorite item is always the lastest thing I'm working on. I just finished printing a batch of new shirt designs which I'm stoked about photographing and sharing with the world. I'm also working on men's skinny ties, to appease the men in my life, which are turning out wonderfully!

Flying Bike Shirt

5. Has Etsy become your full-time job? If not, would you like it to be?

Yes, Etsy as well as keeping boutiques stocked is my full-time job. I have never felt more satisfied. It definitely has its ups and downs, but everything in life is cyclic.

Deer Tee

6. Any advice or tips for others trying to make a living and/or be successful on Etsy?

My number one tip is to take great photos. This can be challenging because it's mostly about the lighting. Research lighting and, if you sell small items, make a light box.

Sea Worthy Vessel Messenger Bag

7. Have any business or personal goals for 2012?

I don't usually set goals with timelines because I never know what life will bring. I am diligent most days of the year and I'm constantly striving for more. I DO want to buy land in the country and build a farm, but that doesn't happen in a year :) Hopefully sooner than later, though.

Narwhal Cardigan

8. Have a fun fact or anything else you'd like to share about yourself or your shop?

I have a newsletter coming out in a couple weeks in which I'll post all my new items and offer a discount. If anyone wants to sign up, please do it here.

******************* GIVEAWAY ENDED 02.10.2012*******************

The winner of the giveaway will be receiving a shirt of your choice from Marty's shop!

To enter the giveaway, all you have to do is comment letting me know which shirt you'd choose from Marty's shop if you won!

Make sure you leave your email address or Twitter name so I can get ahold of you after the giveaway to let you know if you've won. :)

Here are other ways to enter:

(Remember to leave each response as a separate comment!)

1) Follow Marty May on Etsy

2) "Like" Marty May on Facebook

3) Follow Little Tranquility with GFC or BlogLovin'

5) Follow Little Tranquility on Twitter or tweet about the giveaway:

"Win a shirt of your choice from Marty May & @amanduh_face on the Little Tranquility blog! http://little-tranquility.blogspot.com/2012/02/etsy-interviews-v2-marty-from-marty-may.html"

Winner will be drawn on Saturday, February 10th, 2012.

Good luck!

******************* GIVEAWAY ENDED 02.10.2012*******************

xo,

Amanda

January Through Instagram

2012-01-31T22:12:00.006-05:00

I can't believe tomorrow is already February 1st! Andrew left so long ago it seems, but he comes home soon and I'm beyond excited.

Less than a week!

Here's a peek at what my January looked like.

Beautiful ice on the window at the bus stop one morning.

My new (thrifted) oxford heels.

Free trolley rides are the best.

Movie night with the roomies. I love this movie. Vada is my hero.

Veggie eggrolls at midnight because I'm an adult and can eat what I want, when I want.

Strawberry smoothie.

Palak Paneer, tahini, and baby pitas.

Kendal brought home two vegan red velvet cupcakes from Sprinkles for us to consume. She's pretty much the best roommate.

I went to the Pita House by myself and had a falafel sandwich one day and all of the waiters made a comment about how sad it was to see me eating alone. They didn't charge me for the baba ghanoush I ordered. Out of pity, perhaps?

Okay, so I take a lot of pictures of my food.

Leaving Anthropologie one night in Old Town. Pretty lights.

Kendal checking her blood pressure.

Our grown-up living room, complete with fancy couch, fireplace, and marble columns.

What the window display looked like before Anthropologie was open. It's awesome to see everything together now. The display is beautiful. I'll try to take a picture of the finished product soon. The theme is ocean-inspired. I helped make those coral pieces!

Source: thehouseofsmiths.com via Lindsay on Pinterest

I'll be starting this tomorrow.

Follow me on Instagram and join in on the dorky fun. You know you want to. ;-)

Find me: @amanda_face.

Here's to a happy February!

xo,

Amanda

Frida Kahlo

2012-01-28T12:03:00.005-05:00

I looooove Frida. She's on my "top-5-favorite-women-of-all-time" list. Everyone has one of those lists, right?? If not, you should!

She's so inspiring and I admire her greatly.

When she was 18, she was in a trolley accident which left her paralyzed, bedridden and in a body cast for years, and in permanent pain for the rest of her life. Most of her paintings were done while she was in bed.

She was in love with a man (Diego Rivera) who loved her, but was incredibly unfaithful and broke her heart constantly. When she was 6, she had polio which stunted the growth of her right leg and caused deformities and issues throughout her life. She was pregnant three times but lost each child due to complications with her body. When she was three months pregnant, she had to have her toes amputated on her right foot, and eventually had to have the leg amputated from the knee down due to gangrene.

Her life was a true tragedy and you can see it in her eyes in every painting she's completed and in every photo I've ever seen of her.

But her artwork is breathtaking and beautiful, just like her.

I thought I'd share some of my favorites.

"I never paint dreams or nightmares. I paint my own reality."

The Broken Column

"My painting carries with it the message of pain"

Two Fridas

"There have been two great accidents in my life. One was the trolley, and the other was Diego. Diego was by far the worst."

Diego and I

"Feet, what do I need you for when I have wings to fly?"

What I Saw in the Water (What the Water Gave Me)

Self Portrait as Wounded Deer

Self Portrait, Thinking About Death

"I paint myself because I am so often alone and because I am the subject I know best."

Self Portrait with Monkey

Self Portrait with Thorn Necklace

(Those hand earrings were a gift from Picasso.)

"I hope the exit is joyful and I hope never to return."

Sweet, sweet, Frida.

Your life has touched so many.

Thank you. <3

xo,

Amanda

Friday Favorites // 01.27

2012-01-27T10:54:00.003-05:00

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There is no Friend as Loyal as a Book

2012-01-26T10:07:00.007-05:00

I've realized that I don't read hardly as much as I used to since I moved to the east coast and it bothers me. I feel like I just don't have time anymore, which I know is a very poor excuse, but it's partly true. Life is different out here. Busy, busy busy! But, I'm working on it. I'm already half-way through a book I started a few days ago and it feels good. I can feel the old dorky bookworm part of me coming back and I like it.

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I always carry a book in my purse; it has been a must-do since I was 15 or so. I feel naked without one in there. Books are lovely and I can't get enough. My bookshelf here is so sad. I only brought a handful of books with me since my move out here was only supposed to be temporary, so I packed very light. The rest of my books are all in boxes in my friend's parents' basement back in Wisconsin. I miss them dearly. They're probably getting all moldy and stinky and it makes me feel bad. I hope they don't think I've abandoned them forever!

I'm dedicating this post to 5 of my favorite books. It's hard choosing only 5, but these are the ones that came to mind first, which obviously means they hold a special place in my heart, so, here we go!

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1. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

If you know me at all, you know that I have a serious obsession with Sylvia Plath. She was everything I strive to be as a writer. I could relate to her on a personal level, too, which always helps. She was a beautiful person, regardless of how crazy some people make her out to be. I love her. Visiting her grave in West Yorkshire is on my Bucket List. I WILL go there some day!

Anyhow, The Bell Jar is about a girl named Esther Greenwood who is struggling through her young life, just trying to BE. Reading this book was almost like reading my personal diary at times. Esther eventually gets put into a mental hospital, which mirrors Sylvia's time there. (The book is part fiction, part autobiographical.) It's interesting, heartbreaking, wonderful, smart, and everything in between. I highly suggest reading it if you're a fan of Plath's poetry, or if you've ever seen Girl, Interrupted and loved every minute of it.

2. Into The Wild by John Krakauer

Where do I even begin with this book? I've read it four times or so, and each time I learn something new, or find a new reason to fall in love with Christopher McCandless all over again. He was, by far, one of the most brilliant people I've ever had the pleasure to learn about. Jon Krakauer's writing is also phenomenal, which is another huge plus about this book.

(I've also read Into Thin Air by Krakauer and thought it was incredible.)

Into The Wild includes a lot of Chris' actual writing from the journals that were found in the "Magic Bus" in Alaska, as well as letters he wrote to those he met on the road, and most of them brought tears to my eyes. He knew so much about life, and truly appreciated everything around him. I strongly believe everyone should read this book before they die, because it will change you in ways you never thought possible.

(The movie is also a must-see! It's my favorite movie of all time!)

3. What Is The What by Dave Eggers

This is another book that will change you. Once I started it, I couldn't put it down. It's unbelievably good and after I read it, I don't think I shut up about it for months. It really stuck with me and I became obsessed with the Lost Boys and Sudan and did all of this crazy research and watched documentaries and followed Achak's blog and received emails about his foundation, etc. I couldn't get enough!

It's a true story about the life of a Sudanese refugee. He travels from Marial Bai, to Ethiopia, to Kakuma, to Kenya, and finally to the United States. His journey is breathtaking and he has survived more hardships than most people can even comprehend. What I found most interesting about the book, was the way he spoke about his life in Africa compared to his life in the states. It really opened my eyes to the way we live here. He spoke of how lonely he felt here, and of how much he worked just to survive, and of how tired he was, and how sad everyone seemed here, and how bizarre it is for most people to have a stranger simply say "hello" to them. He admitted to wishing he could be back in Africa at times, walking with the line of other boys in the dark, starving, exhausted, and afraid, simply because he at least felt a part of something then, and he wasn't as lonely as he felt here.

It's a really, really great read, so go read it! Right now!

4. Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer

This is definitely one of the most important books I've ever read. I consider myself somewhat of a Jonathan Safran Foer enthusiast, so when he came out with this book, I was completely and utterly overjoyed. I wanted to buy copies for everyone. I posted paragraphs from the book everywhere I could. I couldn't stop talking about it. I watched endless Jonathan Safran Foer interviews on YouTube.

I wanted to marry him. No joke.

Anyway, the book goes in depth mostly about factory farming and how it's ruining everything. It's definitely not a book that only vegetarians would enjoy, either. It's unbiased and strictly facts. He interviews factory farm workers, small farm owners, peta members, butchers, etc. It's really interesting and what I love most about it, is that it isn't just an informative book. It's a story, too. It's personal and heartwarming and I'm so in love with it. I really want to encourage you to read it because I know you'll like it!

My friend Shaun met Jonathan when he spoke at Google in 2010. He was in line to meet him and I was texting him, all shaky and frantic. Shaun told Jonathan that he had a friend in Wisconsin who wanted to marry him. I was told he laughed. And because Shaun is so sweet, he got a book signed for me! I also got a shirt! It was amazing, and I am forever grateful. :)

5. The Dive From Clausen's Pier by Ann Packer

I first read this book when I was 14. I picked it up by chance at a thrift store in Kenosha, WI. I remember having one of those moments where I needed a book, any book. This was the one I happened to grab, and I'm so glad I did!

It's a very simple story, which is one of the many things I love about it, but it's also a story of growth, change, forgiveness, love, loss and all the good & bad in between. I can't even count how many times I've read it. My copy is all broken and worn and all of the pages are highlighted and underlined and circled. Ann Packer writes with such feeling, and can describe things so perfectly and flawlessly. It's almost like watching a movie.

The main character reminded me so much of myself, and continues to do so to this day. I still have moments where I think of Carrie, and imagine I'm doing something similar to what she would have done in the book.

This novel means so much to me, and I don't know any other book that I've feel such a connection with, for so long. It's not only because I was so young when I first read it, but it's also because I've grown with it, and I think it takes a special kind of book to be able to make you feel like you can return to it at any given time and still feel like you're living it, and learning from it, regardless of how old you are.

That's the beautiful thing about books. No matter how much you change as a person, those pages never do, and they're always there for you when you need them most. <3

"There is no friend as loyal as a book." - Ernest Hemmingway

What are your 5 favorite books?

xo,

Amanda