Tag Archives: philadelphia

our first philly christmas

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The first holiday in our Philadelphia home got off to a great start. We usually cut down a tree but this year we kept it simple and found a local spot that had trees fresh from a farm (we’ll be giving it to goats when it comes down). I wanted to honor the age of our home with 1920s inspired decor and wrapping, and focused on Art Deco vibes. I used mostly vintage items as accents, ribbon I’ve had for years, but did purchase some handmade paper (we’ve carefully saved each piece so that we can repurpose it next year, which is a small way we can reduce our waste). We added this special ornament to our collection, in honor of our first city christmas. We had exciting plans, but 2021 was getting ready to test us in a big way.

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signs of sanctuary (part deux)

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We just got the keys to our new home in Philadelphia (yay), and this beauty welcomed us in her full spring glory. I’m obsessed and have photographed it from every window that faces it! I can’t wait to share more of the house soon but right now we’re surrounded by boxes and chaos and have to dig ourselves out of that first. It’s exciting (and anxiety inducing) to be back in “civilization” but the fact that we have a yard and a mature garden makes the adjustment so much less stressful. Every time I look at this tree (or any of the blooms), I exhale. We have a new sanctuary, and we hope to enjoy it for quite some time. For more blossoms and a few sneak peeks, check out the “new house” Stories highlight on Instagram!

habitus exhibit

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We journeyed into the city today specifically to see this incredible exhibit by artist Ann Hamilton. I first learned of her work back in 2012, when she exhibited the event of a thread at the Park Avenue Armory in NYC. While we had the best intentions of getting there to see it for ourselves, we never made it, and I regret that intensely. This latest work, entitled habitus, refers to a condition or custom of dress but also to social patterns. It’s an immersive, engaging installation, and we were all delighted by it. The kids found so much joy in pulling and turning the curtains, which billowed to gigantic proportions. I found it to be simultaneously intimate and vast, and as with most of Ann’s work, mesmerizing.

 

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sister cities park

marieinriver

henryinriver

 

We had one mission this Fourth of July weekend – to give the kids their first splash pad experience. After some research and friend polling, I decided our first should be Sister Cities Park. Having driven by it many times and always seeing a flock of moms and strollers, I knew it must be great. With a pond, children’s garden, cafe + splash pad, it has more than enough to keep the kiddos (and mommy + daddy) happy. Dressed in appropriate holiday colors, we joined the masses in the sunshine! We splashed, we sailed (mini boats), we smiled…it was a good day. Follow through for more cuteness!

 

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philly creatives gift guide

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Every year I share gift ideas from makers + creatives in Philadelphia, in honor of Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. There is so much talent in this city I could make numerous gift guides, but I’ve narrowed it down to a festive twelve. Help support these talented small business owners + creatives, as well as the artisans in your own community.

happy shopping + happy holidays!

 

1…PEG + AWL waxed canvas tote in spice // use code SPOLIA for 20% off thru 12/1

2…FORAGE HABERDASHERY lady bow in metallic gold // use code HOLIDAY for 35% off thru 12/8

3…NORMAN PORTER frontier belt // use code BUTTERBALL for 20% off thru 12/1

4…ABJ GLASSWORKS teardrop terrarium kit // free domestic shipping on orders over $75 with code thanks14

5…HONEST ALCHEMY + KING OF THE BEASTS indigo dyed wooden necklace // enjoy 30% off thru 12/1

6…HAND IN HAND SOAP orange blossom liquid hand soap + lotion // use code GIVETHANKS for 25% off thru 12/1

7…GIRLS CAN TELL eco-friendly pocket notebooks // use code YAY30 for 30% off 

8…BABY JIVES CO personalized mini cloud ornament // offering a variety of holiday deals!

9…NEUARMY SURPLUS CO waxed canvas U.S. field pouch // visit site for details

10..ZOET BATHLATIER tangier candle // use code BF2014 for 15% off thru 11/30

11..THREE POTATO FOUR philadelphia pennant // use code 3P4THANKS for 30% off thru 12/2

12..ART IN THE AGE craft spirits // spirits not sold in store but support other local talent with numerous deals in store!