The Late Afternoon

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I’ve been obsessing over bar carts recently – the pretty clear glasses, mixers, bottles, and flower vases. I have the ideal empty corner in my dining area where a vintage one would fit perfectly. The only issue is where to find one of these classy little things! I love the way the styling can completely change the look and feel of each cart.

After leaving empty-handed during our multiple trips to our “cheap” furniture stores (think iKea, Target, etc), we resorted to the Mission in San Francisco last weekend to revive our furniture luck. We stumbled upon The Apartment, a vintage furniture store with a bright yellow entrance, that was packed with all kinds of artifacts –  old books, a wall of bins filled with old black & white photographs, rustic pieces with chipping wood, and giant gold framed paintings. The unique look of each piece was a welcomed change from the usual step-by-step furniture we’re used to (though I still love iKea!) and we had fun exploring the hidden upstairs rooms. Although we left The Apartment empty-handed (though I did spot a blush pink side table that was super cute), I couldn’t resist sneaking photos with my iPhone (thank you, Instagram!).

Phew, this work week was long – thank goodness its Friday!

Artichokes have recently become a staple at our apartment. Some of my favorite memories of the past few weeks have involved artichokes – late afternoon walks from Trader Joe’s with a four-pack of artichokes weighing down our shopping bag or the night we sat around our dining room table with our feet propped up, slowly enjoying each mayonnaise dipped leaf.  Usually, we make two, one for the each of us, and take turns scooping out the middle to get to the heart (the best part!). I think we’ve gone through about four four-packs of artichokes in the past three weeks. We’re also thinking of trying out the jumbo (!!!) artichokes we saw at the Farmer’s Market last Sunday. Maybe this time, we’ll have to share.

Besides a few new items here and there, most of the home decor I have lying around my apartment has been with me since or before college. While my collegial sweatshirts, cheap Van Gogh “Starry Night” poster, and silly shot glass necklaces now live in my boxes in my garage, the frames, painted canvases, and knick-knacks pretty much still remain. Naturally, I’ve gotten a little tired of the same things and have attempted in small ways to re-vamp what I have. Once a childish neon pink art project, I recently decided to paint my bank in solid metallic gold to switch it up a bit. The shiny paint adds a whimsical pop to by bedside table considering that the frames and books on my table are pastel.

It took five layers of paint to cover up the once neon pink color of my pig and, even still, you can see traces of its previously blue feet and flower covered body. I don’t mind though since it shows a little bit of its character.

Bright flowers, dogs dressed in outfits, and stripes – Yes, its a random mix of categories, but Rifle Paper Company makes it work. I am always impressed with Rifle Paper Company’s whimsical greeting cards and their newest collection of cards has done it again. A great dane dressed up in big sunglasses and a floral headscarf could cheer anyone up, don’t you agree?

Images via Rifle Paper Company