seablanket

The End of an Era // 2.2

2014-02-02T21:11:00.000-09:00

After quite a lot of deliberation... like, literally years of thought... I've finally decided to create a website, which will be the new home of my SEABLANKET blog. I am so thankful to those of you who have stuck by me through all of the self-discovery and maturing that I've done over the past 5 years here, but it's time I move on. Please visit my new website and blog here: www.chelseaspear.com

Thank you for everything

brash // 2.1

2014-02-01T06:00:00.000-09:00

Impressions // 1.29

2014-01-29T07:00:00.000-09:00

I picked up these noteable purchases from my January travels, and I'm delighted to have found them.It's time to start maturing my wardrobe, and these simple pieces will be a good foundation for the rest to follow.

I visited so many wonderful brick and mortar shops, but the following really made an impression:
totokaelo, seattle / wildfang, portland / glasswing, seattle / melrose market, seattle / quin candy, portland

eyes wide shut // 1.28

2014-01-28T09:35:00.000-09:00

I finally returned home from my 3 week vacation to Oregon / Washington, and it feels strange. I was getting used to living out of a suitcase, and in many ways I think it's put so much of my life into perspective.

I can't quite explain what changed, except for everything. I've met so many wonderful new people, shared food, laughter, drinks, stories and views with them and they've taught me things without even trying. My husband and I have bonded over new dreams and opened our eyes to realities. I've made lists and I'm checking things off, slowly and one by one.

This year is going to be strongly rooted in progress. Not necessarily the achievement or accomplishment of one big thing, but the forward progress of working towards a dream, and making strong steps in a positive direction.

"Until your dream becomes more important to you than your fear of rejection, you will never succeed"

now ... all I need is courage.

Forest Park. Portland OR // 1.21

2014-01-21T14:19:00.001-09:00

totokaelo // 1.11

2014-01-10T23:10:00.000-09:00

i'm officially obsessed with this incredible Seattle shop. totokaelo has my heart. go, shop, enjoy!

lake cushman, washington // 1.10

2014-01-10T23:05:00.000-09:00

photos from a weekend spent with new friends. lake cushman, washington. january 5, 2014

headspace // 1.10

2014-01-10T22:28:00.001-09:00

the last few days has been a pure blessing. rather than returning home to Alaska as planned, i jumped on a plane home to Oregon where i've been able to spend a few short days with my dearest friends before heading south to visit family.

along the way, i was graced with an afternoon of artistry with the lovely Bethany Gosvener as she was photographed by the amazing photo team - Luke and Mallory Leasure. it was a really wonderful experience to sit back and watch as my closest friends blossomed into incredible artists before my eyes.

it left me wondering. pondering how others see me, and motivated to push myself harder than before. i'm thankful for my dear friends who continually inspire me daily, and i will make something of an artist myself one day.

now and again // 1.7

2014-01-07T21:41:00.004-09:00

i cannot explain why i am just realizing that pink is not a little girl color...but yeah

1. comodynes energy mask - anti fatigue effect

2. wood wood - that hat hole. yes

3. julia kostreva - keep it together people

4. andy heart x mirlo - G O L D

5. jaclyn mayer - bling bling ladiezzz

6. found on kopfdreck tumblr - that natural leather kills me

7. aerie - buff

now // 1.7

2014-01-07T21:07:00.001-09:00

now listening : iamamiwhoami + john lennon and plastic ono band
now trying : messy low updo's -- ponytails preferred
now obsessing over : marine deleeuw ( seriously -- look at that face)
now shopping : i need new black boots. the perfect pair is out there ... im sure

Carry On // 1.3

2014-01-03T12:55:00.000-09:00

January is starting off with a bang. So much traveling, and very little time to plan for it. I just found out I'll be hopping a plane for Seattle tonight, returning to Alaska in a week, then back down to Portland and Seattle the following week to round out the month. Looking forward to a refreshing time away from home to gain new perspective and be inspired by the beauty and culture of the pacific northwest.

I look forward to posting updates for you this whole month. Happy New Year friends!

Inspired Weekly // 1.3

2014-01-03T07:36:00.001-09:00

My dear friend and absolute inspiration Bethany Gosvener finally has a website up and I had to share it with you. She is without a doubt, one of the most talented individuals I've ever had the pleasure of knowing, and her taste in creativity, subject matter and form takes her to a whole other level. Please head over to Bethany's website and say hello and take a peek at her stunning pen and graphite illustrations. You can also find Bethany on Instagram and Pinterest

Thank you // 2013

2013-12-30T08:51:00.001-09:00

I have never really been a fan of the idea of a New Year's resolution. Previously, I understood it to be a lofty something one would commit to on this specific day because everyone else was doing it, and if a resolution is really just a goal (I make plenty of those all year round), so what makes this day any different or more meaningful? I think this year, I finally understand why resolutions are more than goals, commitments or inevitable let downs - they are hopes and dreams and prayers for a good year to come.
All that being said, here are my resolutions for the next year, and I wish them for each of you:

*I read this on Pinterest, and it really resonated with me. I do not take credit. If you know the author, please let me know

sweet on silver // 12.19

2013-12-19T11:42:00.000-09:00

Ippolita Bangle – Finks Jewelers / Chloé Bracelet – Monnier Frères / Woven Bangle Olivier Bonas / John Hardy Ring JR Dunn / Jennifer Zeuner Ring Oxygen Boutique / Vero Moda Necklace The Hut

Change Will Come // 12.17

2013-12-17T13:47:00.001-09:00

As the year is coming to an end, I'm thinking of change. I've been so stubborn with keeping my hair "natural" and not dying it, but let's face it : brunette can be boring. So, I'm planning a change. Not sure when I'll end up making the jump, but here it is. Dirty dirty blonde is calling and I can't wait to claim my color fate.

Other things I'm working on:
1. Spring cleaning - I realize this is early, but what better time than the present.
2. Simplifying my accessories - Recognizing that I hold onto things, for the sake of sentiment or obligation, I'm cleansing my jewelry box of all the things I feel stuck with. Instead of keeping it, I'm taking photos of the things I found dear, and gifting them to others who would appreciate them.
3. Making lists - Putting my goals and chores down on paper has helped me be motivated and inspires me to keep pushing.
4. Finding inspiration - whether a blog or magazine, movie, book or music, I'm seeking out things to inspire. I'd love suggestions if you have found inspiration lately.
5. Being open to opportunities - embracing change, and opportunities with open arms has always been a challenge, but I'm ready to invite them in.

What do you plan to change in the new year?

Royal Hue // 12.9

2013-12-09T09:06:00.001-09:00

Spice up your holiday season with a little light on your lids. I fell in love with this bold highlight of royal blue, worn as a thick liner. Paired with a natural face, this look can really pack a punch.

See inspiration for this look:

http://www.pinterest.com/seablanket/c-o-u-l-e-u-r/

Inspired Weekly // 12.6

2013-12-06T09:44:00.002-09:00

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Prospect Goods // Give the gift of Sparkle

2013-12-01T11:57:00.001-09:00

Prospect Goods is one of my favorite small businesses, who I've had the privilege to watch grow and thrive. Specializing in the fanciest of party decor, Prospect Goods understands what it means to celebrate, and what better time than now?! Tomorrow is Cyber Monday, and Prospect Goods is killing it with free shipping and 20% off your entire purchase when you order at ProspectGoods.com!!

They recently sent me a Multi-Colored Piñata and Confetti Kit to try out, and oh my goodness is it amazing! Plus, for only $38 there is no way this shouldn't be at the top of your wish list! The kit includes all the pieces you need to assemble your very own Diamond Piñata, instructions on how to make it amazing, and all you need is a little time and imagination.

They sent me the metallic kit with White, Black and Silver Metallic tissues, which I turned into an ombre diamond piñata. It was fun to build, and the result is something I could easily see all my friends loving. Plus, all of the leftover tissues can be used as confetti to stuff your piñata or to decorate with.

Don't forget to shop Small Business this Cyber Monday, and go say hello to the folks at Prospect Goods, where it's always a party!! And be sure to check out their blog, for awesome gift ideas, the Cyber Monday discount code and more!

More from prospectgoods blog:

Blanc // 10.31

2013-10-31T08:40:00.000-08:00

Dapple // 10.30

2013-10-30T12:59:00.000-08:00

With full admiration to the upcoming chill of winter I've been swooning over shades of grey. With dark charcoal rain clouds, and soft heather shadows in the snow, what color is better suited for the season. I rely on grey in my wardrobe to achieve the same effects as found in nature. My wool tailored vest gives a sense of severity, while my dip-dyed cotton rope necklace ads a playful note to any outfit. I've started color blocking different grey tones on top of one another, and surprisingly it feels just right. Try the same with your accessories, it makes a quiet but stunning statement.

Around the house // 10.28

2013-10-28T12:28:00.000-08:00

This week I can't get enough of cleaning out my closets and reorganizing. We're loosing a lot of light here in Alaska, so I'm taking the opportunity to make my home seem simpler, brighter and fresh. Snow is on it's way and I can't help but fall in love all over again with the natural tones, fresh cuts and simple shapes. Effortless is the vibe of the season so I'm hitting the reset button.

Change // 10.28

2013-10-28T07:32:00.003-08:00

Change your heart. Change your focus

natural elements

2013-10-15T10:43:00.000-08:00

-Matanuska Glacier, Alaska

murdered out // 10.10

2013-10-10T14:11:00.001-08:00

fashion advice for fall :: black. black. black. black. black. BLACK!

the trick to wearing one color head to to is shape and textiles. by layering leathers, wool and silks, take a one dimensional color to the next level.

Shop this Look:

q & a // Life in Alaska

2013-10-02T14:13:00.002-08:00

I recently posted a comment on my Instagram, opening the doors for a Q & A about life in Alaska. My husband and I have placed your questions along with our answers, below. If you too have a question, let us know, we'll be happy to answer in the comment section.

What made you decide to move and adventure to Alaska? (@abigailcorinne_)

My husband and I first discussed moving away from Portland, Oregon early last winter after spending an early Christmas vacation at a little cabin in the middle of nowhere. We were alone in the midst of nature surrounded by snow and silence, and we were incredibly happy there.

Fast forward 4 months to mid-March of this year, when my husband was given a promotion at his dream job, which would land us in Alaska. We took 24 hours to discuss it, and though it was one of the hardest and most terrifying decisions, we decided to move to Anchorage, Alaska. Less than two weeks later we arrived, sight unseen, in our new town at our new home, with nothing but 3 suitcases full of clothes, and our cat Margot.

What was the transition like? (@abigailcorinne_)

Leaving Portland was the easy part. Once we agreed to move to Alaska, the next two weeks were a whirlwind of joy, stress and excitement. We were nervous about dropping everything and moving to a new state, so far away from everything and everyone we knew. It was apparent that bringing "things" with us was not the smartest option when we had no idea what we'd need once we arrived, so we had a garage sale where we sold all of our belongings with the exception of our wardrobes, and some sentimental treasures. Everything had to go. This freed up most of our remaining time in the city to spend with friends and loved ones. It was incredibly bittersweet.

On our first morning in Alaska, I cried. We slept in an empty house, on the floor, using clothes for pillows and blankets. We were exhausted, nervous and the reality of what we'd done finally sunk in. It was shocking to open our front door to see the massive mountains covered in snow and ice that stood before us. I felt like Dorothy when she realizes she's not in Kansas anymore.

Soon, we had a home filled with new possessions, a car to take us here and there, a slight grasp on the area, and a yearning to discover what sat behind those mountains on the horizon. So we settled down, learned more about the area, and took time to travel the state. April and May brought snow, June brought sun that melted the snow, July brought warmth and flowers, August brought wildlife, and September brought Autumn. Every day is still a transition, but it's quite a fun adventure.

How are you able to fund your travels? (@jazraigosa)

We are pretty simple people in general. We are picky about certain things like coffee, cheese and our wardrobes, and other things we honestly don't care about. When we travel, often times we sleep in the back of our car. We eat pb&j sandwiches and drink snapple or cheap wine out of the bottle. Many of our adventures are day trips, where we simply bring our iPhones, snacks and extra layers in case of surprise weather patterns. All in all, our adventures cost as much as a tank of gas, which doesn't ever slow us down.

Do you work or just travel and adventure? (@bnichols_)

My husband and I both work. He is a visual manager in Anchorage and I work remotely as a producer for a creative agency in Portland. We work 5 days a week and spend our weekends traveling.

What will you do now and in the future with the images from your Alaskan explorations? Any more travel plans? (@bleuinlove)

Currently, we have some prints available for purchase on our Society6 page. We have some tricks up our sleeves for the near future, but I won't spill the beans quite yet. Ideally, we will continue to share our adventure photos on Instagram for everyone to see. We would love to do some more traveling outside of Alaska, but that will have to wait until next year.

How long do you plan to stay in Alaska? (@blrbear22)

We plan to live here until next summer, maybe longer. The options for where to move next is our main issue. We have a few areas in mind of where we'd like to live inside the US, but it will really come down to timing and that same gut instinct that landed us in Alaska.

Have you seen a bear? If so were you terrified? If not whats the most terrifying thing that's happen so far in Alaska? (@bruhhnette)

Yes, we've seen so many Bears! They are very scary, but not from far away. Keeping the distance is my main objective around wildlife, hence why so few of our photos are of the animals that call Alaska their home.
The scariest thing we've found in Alaska is the quicksand-like sand banks we've encountered. Along all the rivers, and lakes and beaches, you'll find a dark grey sand that appears harmless, but can be so dangerous. The water table here is really high, and the silt in the sand creates a vacuum effect that causes solid ground to cave in and pull heavy items down into it. I easily get claustrophobic and the idea of getting trapped in the sand is terrifying.

Is it easy or hard to find jobs in Alaska that might be found in other states? (@darlingmackenzie)

The jobs here are just like they are elsewhere, but I think there are less of them. Alaska is a huge state, and most of it's income comes from the natural resources (such as fish and game, oil, coal, etc) and tourism. I would say if you're looking for a summer job, Alaska is the place to look, but if you're looking for something year-round, it could be more challenging.

What guides your steps? Are you just living for the moment or you have plans for the future? I mean, where are you heading to? (@silvialakkahillo)

That is a great question. We have strong beliefs and morals that guide our life daily, but as for future guidance, we like to set goals. We set both short term and long term goals, that require discipline and patience. We do not seek wealth or fame, or even the easy life. We want to live honest, meaningful lives that positively impact the people and places we come across. Everything else is meaningless.

Do you still work with fashion? (@ligiacellani)

I am always making things, like I did when I had my clothing line. I never consider it part of my past, because I continue to do and make and create. My only goal is to once again make things for others, to share and sell all over the world. So, to answer the question, I am not currently a self-employed clothing designer but I will never stop working with fashion.

What direction do you see your blog going in for the future? (@faultytimes)

Seablanket has been something I've done for almost 5 years now. I have grown and changed so much since I started my blog, and I'm afraid that recently the growing pains have caught up to me. Since moving to Alaska, I feel like the lack of constant commotion and distraction has allowed me to get to know myself more clearly, and I feel that clarity is driving me to be more ambitious in the future.

The future of my blog will contain 100% original content - created, curated and written from my heart and soul. It may not attract the audience that it once did, but it will be honest and original. I will continue to highlight fashion, diy, lifestyle and travel with the aesthetic I believe is my own. Seablanket has always been a place where I get to share my point of view in creativity, and I don't see that changing anytime soon!

Thank you all for your questions, this has been really fun for us!