Lovey Dovey

get ready.

2011-12-05T14:25:00.000-08:00

winter is coming..but i LOVE this...

herbs print.

2011-11-28T20:00:00.000-08:00

Herb Print for your kitchen in 4 colorways. Unframed 8x 10 for $10. Get one here!

hello around the world print now available!

2011-11-28T19:52:00.001-08:00

Hi guys! A few new prints available for purchase in my etsy shop! "hello around the world" is an 11 x 14 unframed print that is $18.00. Shipped USPS Priority Mail for $4.95. Shop here!

new prints!

2011-11-22T14:02:00.000-08:00

Hi! I have added a new christmas print to my etsy shop. I will be adding more non-holiday ones coming soon. Perfect in a simple white frame in a kitchen nook or hallway to bring a little Christmas cheer! I am currently selling these unframed, 8x10, for $10. They will be shipped Priority Mail in a mailing tube. If you are interested in a larger size, please send me an email and I can add a listing! Get one here!

Let me know if you have any questions!

abbyhyslop@gmail.com

what i've been up to.

2011-11-14T10:57:00.000-08:00

Hi lovey dovey readers! I know it has been a while. Yet again, work has taken over a little bit and left me low on creative energy, even to blog. When I've been coming home, I have been devoting alot of my energy to telling our Italy story! Above are some pages from the book I am making. It has been such a joy to work on, and confirms again the importance of pictures and storytelling...Ashlea, Katie and I are having a reunion party in January in Dallas, and we hope to put together a plan to get us back to Capri again...totally serious. I am not going to be blogging that much anymore until the new year. My plan is to build myself a new website, and the blog will be incorporated into that site. Exciting stuff, so hopefully you can be patient with me and join up with me again once the new site is up and running. I will keep you all updated through Lovey Dovey until then. I will also be selling some artwork prints at a friends holiday boutique at the beginning of Dec. that I will give you all an opportunity to buy as well, so more to come soon on that.

Lots of love! Abby

vintage varsity collection.

2011-08-22T19:03:00.000-07:00

Here are a few shots of the Toddler Girl Vintage Varsity collection that I worked on! I love love love the playfulness of these pictures! These girls couldn't be cuter!

target + hamilton wood type museum.

2011-08-22T18:28:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to share this with you all for so long! Last fall, I was delighted to be a part of a collaboration between Target and the Hamilton Wood Type Museum in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. Here is a little more information about Hamilton. I was proud to work for a company that sought out an opportunity to support and give visibility to such a unique place!

"The Hamilton Wood Type and Printing Museum is the only museum dedicated to the preservation, study, production and printing of wood type. With 1.5 million pieces of wood type and more than 1,000 styles and sizes of patterns, Hamilton's collection is one of the premier wood type collections in the world. In addition to wood type, the Museum is home to an amazing array of advertising cuts from the 1930s through the 1970s, and all of the equipment necessary to make wood type and print with it, as well as equipment used in the production of hot metal type, tools of the craft and rare type specimen catalogs.

Located between the East and West Twin Rivers on Lake Michigan, the Hamilton Manufacturing Companywas the largest wood type producer in the country, when virtually everything was letterpress printed. The company was founded in 1880, and in addition to wood type, the company has manufactured medical office furniture, light tables, the first gas powered clothes dryer (really!) and more; now in its 130th year, the company produces steel lab equipment."

A team of 8 textile designers across all Target apparel divisions got to go the the museum for a hands on look at these beautiful woodblocks. We spent 2 days working with Bill and Jim Moran, in the studio, on the presses, and getting to print blocks, some of which hadn't been printed in years. It was truly an amazing trip, not only getting to work with a group of graphic and textile designers that I truly admire and respect, but getting to support a craft like letterpress that has had such an integral part on our industry. After we gathered all of our imagery from Hamilton, it was back to work at Target Headquarters to develop a line of graphics that stayed true to the craft of letterpress and the posters and imagery that defined the era when these blocks were made. The "Vintage Varsity" collection was born and is at a Target Store near you! Mens, Womens, Kids, Accessories..there is something for everyone! One of Target's marketing team's followed our trip and a video is up on Target's Cool Never Fades facebook page.

oakland, nebraska: the burt county fair.

2011-08-08T17:48:00.001-07:00

it isn't summer without the burt county fair in oakland! here is a little taste of what it is like at the fair!

We eat at the 4-H kitchen as much as we can. My favorites are the sloppy joe or the taco salad..always with some kool-aid!

After dinner it is straight to the VFW Bingo table for a few rounds!

Another favorite is walking around the livestock barns. The ro.osters and hens were absolutely gorgeous, and i sure fell in love with the little reserve champion bunny..

Beautiful fruits of the harvest..flowers and vegetables all deserving of a prize!

i thought this piece was absolutely beautiful and definitely deserving of the best in show ribbon!

when in florence: watch the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo.

2011-07-27T18:32:00.000-07:00

Our last night in Florence was spent on the steps of the Piazzale Michelangelo looking over the breathtaking view of the city. On your walk there, pick up a bottle of wine, a bottle of Prosecco, some cheese, strawberries. an sit and enjoy the views till the sun goes down!

travel tip: pack jewelry..or have a friend who does!

2011-07-27T17:54:00.000-07:00

There were moments that Katie wanted nothing more to do with her heavy-as-lead backpack on our travel days..but every pound of that backpack that accounted for jewelry was worth it! I don't know if I told y'all yet, but American Airlines lost my bag on my way to Rome..and I didn't have any word of it's whereabouts until 8 days later, 2 days before we were heading home. All I can say is thank goodness for the H&M in Florence and thank goodness for Katie's jewelry bar (which is what we called her treasure trove of jewels wherever it was unloaded in our hotels or apartments)..For the first 2 days of the trip, I was feeling disgusting, wearing my black knit Target dress I wore on the plane, and the only thing that kept me feeling cute, was Katie being able to accessorize me head to toe! Pack jewelry..lots of it...it can turn the simplest of outfits into something wonderful.

when in florence: take a day trip to San Gimignano.

2011-07-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a lovely day trip into the Tuscan countryside to the small village of

San Gimignano..You can take about an hour train ride to Poggibonsi from Florence, and then a short bus ride into San Gimignano. What brought us there was one of the best experiences we had on our trip, a day cooking class in the countryside at Il Vicario, which I will tell you all about later. But we took a break amidst our pizza dough and panzanella to walk around this charming walled city. Make sure to look up and soak in the charming curtains blowing in the windows. Take a moment and sit by the fountain in the main square. Make sure you go into Ciani, a store with beautiful wooden kitchen utensils and knick-knacks. I wish I would have bought more from this little place! It was a lovely break from some of the more touristy stores..You will enjoy your day in this little gem of a town!

new favorite drink.

2011-07-25T19:33:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend with my family on Lake Geneva in Wisconsin staying at a dear friend's gorgeous home. She brought us down these amazing drinks on the dock one evening..

-Frozen Limeade

-Citrus Vodka

-and tons of Fresh Mint

Can't wait to make these!

when in florence: spend a night at Piazza Santo Spirito.

2011-07-18T19:44:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite nights in Florence was spent sitting on the fountain at Piazza Santo Spirito. The whole vibe of this square felt incredible authentic and just far enough removed from the hustle and bustle of Florence..quaint restaurants, and tons of people just hanging out and enjoying the night. My suggestion is to buy your wine at one of the groceries around the corner from the Piazza (you will save yourself alot of money), head to Gusta Pizza, and place an order for 1 Gusta Pizza, then go sit and enjoy one of the best things you will ever put in your mouth by the fountain! If you can add in a few great friends, it will be a great night.. I promise.

when in florence: soak up the beauty of the Duomo at night...

2011-07-18T18:55:00.000-07:00

I will never forget turning the corner and seeing the Duomo in Florence for the first time..you can hardly believe what is right in fron of your eyes. I will also never forget turning the corner and seeing the Duomo at night for the first time...absolutely breathtaking. Get yourself a bottle of wine, some plastic cups, and go and feast your eyes on this architectural beauty.

when in florence: eat gelato.

2011-07-18T18:39:00.000-07:00

The perfect end to every yummy pizza or saucy pizza was just a bit of gelato. Every night I found myself craving a cool, crisp, fruity combination...Peach, Melon, Strawberry, Coconut, Grapefruit..and over there, the peach flavor actually had huge chunks of peach skins..so fresh!
These pics were taken at Gelateria Santa Trinita in Florence!

the trip of a lifetime.

2011-07-11T18:46:00.000-07:00

Oh y'all...I am so excited to start this string of posts about my trip to Italy. To say this was the trip of a lifetime is an understatement.There are so many pictures and stories I want to share with you all, but wanted to start with a few overall thoughts for you.

Traveling out of the country is always worth the money and time.

I know full and well that no one normal just wakes up and says, "Of course I've got enough money to go to ______! Pocket change!" BUT when you invest in trips like this, you are not only investing in dear relationships with whoever you are traveling with, you are adding rich seasoning to your life. I always compare my life to a steak that is simmering on the grill..each trial, experience, relationship, is adding one more complex flavor to that steak...and traveling to other cultures around the world adds flavor like you wouldn't believe. I will be telling the stories from this trip for the rest of my life with fondness, thankfulness, and laughter. So when the excuses start flooding in for why you shouldn't go try to remember that.

Embrace Life.

This little phrase became the theme of our trip. When I say embracing life, I mean not being afraid... not being afraid to talk to strangers, to walk into awkward straight on and turn it into something you never thought it could be, to just say yes when every rational part of you says to say no. There is a freedom and confidence that comes along with this, and it is something my mom has been modeling for me in the best way for quite some time. For a little example, my mom knows no strangers. When my mom and step dad come back from vacation, they always have a handful of new friends that they have met on their travels..they even befriended Colin Ferrell on their honeymoon. And they didn't just say hi, they invited him to dinner, and by the end of the trip were introducing him to other friends they had met. I learned how to let go and embrace life on this trip because of Ashlea Taylor and Katie McAfee, the dear dear friends I was traveling with. Life happens when you let people in, when you talk to strangers, when you stray off the usual path...and it is a wonderful thing.

So to give you an overall snapshot of our trip, We flew into Rome, headed straight to Florence for 4 nights, headed down to the Amalfi Coast to the island of Capri for 3 nights, and then back to Rome for the last 3 nights of the trip. Can't WAIT to tell you all about it...

happy 4th.

2011-07-11T18:41:00.000-07:00

a little late..but happy 4th! Here are a few photos from the Tekameh, Nebraska Fourth of July Parade. I do love me some old cars.

ciao for a while!

2011-06-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

i am leaving tomorrow for a dream trip to Italy with my bestie..so ciao for a while! How amazing is this photo from InStyle? I actually just bought some bright yellow shorts to wear! And now I am totally going to be obsessed with finding this wonderful woman in Portofino..I want those dishtowels!

joie's wedding dress.

2011-06-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

For the last few months, I have been working with a friend of mine to make her wedding dress. The idea started when she thought maybe she could use elements from her sisters dress and maybe add some new modern elements. Her sister got married in 1993, so there was lace and shoulder pads galore, but we decided to use the skirt and then construct a new top. This was the first wedding dress to had worked on and Joie was very sweet to entrust me with the look for her big day. We did a floral spray at the top of the dress, with dot patterned tulle straps. I pleated the waistband and covered it in the dot tulle. Since the skirt had a long train, I had to come up with a way to bustle the skirt. I put a pearl button on the back and then hid a small loop on the train that hooks onto the pearl in order to bustle the back. It was a big project but I am happy Joie is happy!

get out of town: florence.

2011-05-24T20:27:00.000-07:00

For our trip, we decided to book apartments and b&b's instead of hotels for our stays in Florence and Rome through airbnb. I am so excited about our apartment in Florence...and we will be on the same street as Emily and Barrett's hotel! (don't know if I told you that my older sister and her husband will be traveling in Italy at the same time and our times in Florence will overlap!) Here are some shots of our "1 bedroom apartment on historical palazzo.." yes please!

kvam family farms.

2011-05-10T08:38:00.001-07:00

Are you one of my Nebraska readers? If you are, then listen up! My mom has been able to buy farm fresh chickens, fresh eggs, honey, raw milk, and many many other goodies from Kvam Family Farms right in West Point. The Kvam's is a small family run farm that focuses on local, organic, and sustainable farming. We should ALL be supporting these small farming operations in a world of food that is extremely over-processed. You can set up an appointment to pick up your goods with the Kvam's by calling the number above...and I suggest you do! yum yum yum!

italy update.

2011-05-09T20:19:00.000-07:00

I have been reading it up in my Frommer's Italy, Italy Day-by-Day, and Italian Islands books and can hardly believe that in a little over a month I will be on a flight to Rome with my best friend! We will start our journey in Florence exploring Tuscany, then head down for 3 glorious nights on Capri, and then head back to Rome for a few days before we head home. I will fill you in on a few more details in a bit...but on a more superficial note, what shall I wear? hee hee. I will not be packing alot. My plan is dresses, and lots of them, like this one from Old Navy I got this weekend; comfortable, supportive shoes, like Keds; these awesome Raybans I'm going to treat myself to before the trip; and the LL Bean sunwashed canvas shoulder bag, which I'm hoping will be the perfect thing to hold my camera, and to keep my organized on day trips...that should be about it!

some spring things.

2011-05-09T20:04:00.000-07:00

The bike is out and I think it was 70 degrees for the first time in many, many, many months today. I am going to try not to drive to the grocery store at all this summer. I can get there in about 15 minutes on my bike, so I have no excuse. If I'm not biking to the store or work, you can probably find me on the hill by the Rose Gardens at Lake Harriet with a stack of magazines soaking up some sun.

I am trying my hand at some mint infused white rum for my second favorite summer drink, mojitos!

I found this little guy at Nifty Thrifty a while ago, painted it white, and now have another great place to stick some flowers!

shop scad.

2011-04-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

check out this fun shot of the shop scad pop up shop featuring a lot of my designs this past December on the Constant Gatherer! You can still buy some things here and here!

fun goodies for my bday.

2011-04-25T18:14:00.000-07:00

just a few goodies I received for my birthday...these adorable little butter and jam pats (thank you Becky!) , and my lovely manatee drawing! (thank you Sam!)

2011-04-23T17:53:00.000-07:00

be inspired: tomboy style.

2011-04-22T20:18:00.000-07:00

loving all the inspiration over at this lovely blog, tomboy style. I think I need a little more tomboy style in my life..

recipe for a good summer: salmon ceviche.

2011-04-22T19:55:00.000-07:00

I think I found my new favorite summer meal...actually, I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since Emily and Paul came to visit and we sat drinking watermelon mojitos and eating salmon ceviche. My older sister and I gave it a go this weekend and it was amazing..talk about tastey! If you like fresh salsa and salmon and jalepenos..you will love this.

Ingredients:

.6-1 lb of fresh salmon

1-2 jalepenos, finely chopped

juice of 2 oranges

juice of 5 limes

1 medium red onion, finely chopped

To add later:

1 avocado

1 tomato or cherry tomatoes

salt and pepper

Pull apart your salmon into small pieces and place in large bowl. Add jalepenos and red pepper. Add orange and lime juice. The liquid should coat and almost cover everything. Let this sit for 3-4 hours. The citrus juices will cook the salmon, and it should appear just as it would cooked after this time. Toss with avocado, tomato, and add salt and pepper. I like it served over white rice, or it is great with tortilla chips!

recipe for a good summer: beeritas.

2011-04-22T19:22:00.000-07:00

I whipped up my first batch of beeritas this past weekend despite the crappy weather. Don't know what a beerita is? Well, your life is about to be changed. The simple definition of a beerita is a margarita with beer. It cuts the sweeten of a regular margarita and is the most refreshing summer drink..be careful..they are strong. My Juice-o-Mat worked perfectly for getting every last drop out of those limes!

Here is my fail proof recipe..

Ingredients (makes 1 pitcher):

1 can frozen limeade concentrate (i sometimes add fresh lime juice as well)

Tequila

2 cheap beers (I prefer Michelob Golden Light)

Triple Sec

Dump your frozen limeade into the pitcher. Fill up the empty limeade container with tequila and add to frozen limeade (don't fill up as much for a less strong one). Pour in 2 beers. Let the foam settle and give it a stir until the limeade is dissolved. Finish off with a hit of triple sec.

april 15, 2011.

2011-04-22T19:15:00.000-07:00

self portrait on my 25th birthday.

(i know i look serious..but i am very much excited about this time and year of my life.)

mn spring.

2011-04-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

April 16th: New display at Hunt & Gather.

April 19th: The view out my window.

you are such a tease minnesota.

get out of town: new york city.

2011-04-14T18:42:00.000-07:00

It was off to NYC for the April Print Shows to see what was new for spring! Our home for the weekend was the Gramercy Park Hotel in the East Village.. swanky but absolutely delightful!

One of the first things we did was head to the Ace Hotel and sit and the bar for a brewsky. The atmosphere was chill and amazing. You should add this to your list next time you are in the city!

Lunch at Kati Roll next to Bryant Park. Delicious.

Love love loved seeing Sam and Adam's amazing Harlem apartment..I could have spent much longer there just soaking in the lovely colors, amazing objects and art, their emmaculately organized kitchen, chowing down on Sam's homemade salted caramel ice cream, and laughing..ALOT. They made our weekend oh so fun..that is an under statement.

Yummy pulled pork, ribs, mac and cheese, and garlic potatoes at Dinosaur BBQ in Harlem.

Brunch at Flatbush Farm..I loved the quarter inch thick country bacon.

It's not a visit to Williamsburg, without stopping into Mast Brothers Chocolate and snacking on some samples.

Visited Brook Farm General Store and picked up some beeswax candles and a beer bottle opener.

Nom-ed down the most amazing Strawberry donut from the Donut Plant.

Visited the Kate Spade store on Broome Street and treated myself to the gold grosgrain bow earrings.

Finally visited Purl Soho and drooled over their beautiful selection of Liberty fabrics and wool felt.

Enjoying one of the best meals I have ever eaten at The Spotted Pig. Sheep's Milk Ricotta Gnudi with Basil Pesto, Pan Seared Striped Bass with Cauliflower Puree and Hazelnuts.. What an amazing meal. And what a cute restaurant.

Sipping a strong one at Little Branch in the West Village.

Saw the incredible work of Sonia Delaunay at the Cooper-Hewitt.

Had my first ever visit to the Guggenheim! It was amazing to see so many works by Robert Delaunay after having just visiting Sonia's exhibit.

Stopping in to see Paige's lovely designs and her magical touch strewn all about the Lilly Pulitzer on Madison Avenue.

Sam signed us up for a Cheese and Honey pairing class at Murray's Cheese, one of the oldest cheese shops in nyc which opened in 1940. While sipping champagne to cleanse our palettes, we added to our cheese and honey repertoires..My favorite cheese was a Marieke Gouda (unlike any of the "goudas" you can buy at the store) made by a family from Holland that moved to Wisconsin! There was a New york City beekeeper (yes, they exist!) from Let it Bee Honey who brought all sorts of loveliness..

The Beirgarten at the Standard hotel by the High Line was absolutely amazing and made for a very fun night.

spring is almost here.

2011-04-03T19:29:00.000-07:00

Signs of life are starting to show in Minneapolis..you have to look for them, but they are showing up slowly. We're still working through some ice-chunk melting..but spring should be here soon.

These are some pictures I took on my run around Lake Harriet this weekend.

new things at target designed by yours truly.

2011-04-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

New spring items for Cherokee Toddle Girl at Target! Hope you like them! I think my favorite graphic is my little artist French Bulldog who was inspired by sweet Gracie, my favorite Frenchie in Texas..Buy a cute tee and pair it back to our cute plaid or floral shorts!

needlepoint with my mommasita.

2011-03-29T16:44:00.000-07:00

My mom was in town this past weekend, and it was so fun to sit down and spend our saturday afternoon working on creative projects together. There is no denying that my creative sensibilities come directly from my very talented mother..in fact, our handwriting is so similar it is scary. When we were little, my mom was able to work from home and support our family while my dad was in school designing needlepoint patterns. She did very well for herself, publishing her designs through a company called Cross Eyed Cricket. She actually designed her best selling samplers, #32 Alphabet, when she was pregnant with me. When I was studying abroad in France, me and my fiber loving peers would hit every sewing/ fabric/ notion store in every village we were in. One of my favorite memories was happening upon my mom's old design phamplets being sold in France! Of course I bought them.

Well, this weekend, we were both hard at work on new needlepoint projects. My mom is working on a stocking for her and Mike, by designer Mary Beale, who has greatly inspired my mom. She designed the sampler stockings my mom needlepointed for us years ago similar to the pattern above that my mom is now working on. There is something simply gorgeous to me about a sampler..I love the combinations of color, imagery, and lettering. What I love about Mary Beale's designs, is that they still have that very historical and colonial feeling to them..beautiful.

For my project, I am taking a rose fabric that I bought in Brimfield to inspire a small pillow. I'm picturing one rose in the middle with a big polka dot background, backed in the actual fabric.

What a fun weekend!

sigh..i love prints..so much.

2011-03-28T14:05:00.000-07:00

I love love love my job and this video just sparked that feeling of when i first discovered textiles and prints were my passion. Jenna Lyons, J.Crew guru, and some of her designers visit Ratti in Lake Como, Italy, which is a fabric mill with thousands of archives of prints. It reminds me of getting to visit Prelle in Paris, one of the original silk manufacturers that produced things for Marie Antoinette. Watch this video and be inspired by the history of textiles!

thrifting finds: easter.

2011-03-28T14:00:00.000-07:00

I love love buying kitschy holiday decorations. These little fuzzy easter ducks and bunnies were a perfect start to my Easter collection (only 50 cents at Nifty Thrifty)! Can't wait to display them!

cute!

2011-03-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

check out this adorable baby in my owl shirt! love it! Found here.

oakland, ne.

2011-03-20T19:49:00.000-07:00

Pictures on Main Street in Oakland, NE, the Swedish capital of Nebraska. I love this little swedish, farming, 1 restaurant, 1 store town.

the big house.

2011-03-20T19:22:00.000-07:00

I was able to spend a relaxing weekend in Oakland, NE with my family. It was full of our usual festivities: playing Just Dance on the wii, lunch at Memories Cafe, shopping at Nifty Thirfty, hanging out with Grandma Ruth and Grandma Dee..added to that list now is visiting Mike doing work at the "Big House." After a series of wonderful happenings, my mom and step dad Mike were able to purchase a beautiful old historic home in Oakland after it was foreclosed on this past summer. Mike has taken on the challenges of restoring and gutting the house and it has been so fun to see the progress. I am so very happy that they will have this house for their "forever" home. I took some pictures over there this weekend...there are stunning details original to the house that I just love, one of them being the stenciling in the living room which was probably done around 1900. Can't wait for the all the memories we will have in this house! Make sure to check out my mom's blog which tracks the progress on the house: Our Big House On the Prairie.

lilly pulitzer: spring 2011.

2011-03-02T07:39:00.000-08:00

Sigh..yet again, I am in awe of the beautiful creations of friend and print designer Paige Smith for Lilly Pulitzer's Spring 2011 line. It is the most fun thing to know right away which creations come from Paige's magical hand! I especially love the large canvases Paige painted with her prints for their Spring catalouge photo shoot. Her prints featured above are "First Impression," "It can Be Arranged," "Calendar Girl," and "Let them eat Cake." Always check out Lilly's great blog, A Colorful Blog, or Paige's blog, to see what's new!

get out of town: italy (seriously).

2011-03-01T20:28:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe I'm typing this... but I am traveling to Italy this summer with my best friend!! I hate to say it, but when Katie first planted the idea in my head, my first instinct was No. Too much money, missing meetings at work, too much money...I always think it is the most depressing thing to hear people say the one thing they wish they could do more is travel. There is a tone in their voice that makes it sound like it's something they'll never be able to do. But you just have to DO IT! Friends are too dear not to plan experiences like this, life moves too quickly, and money- shmoney...I see it as an investment for my life and in our friendship, what a blessing! And a HUGE thank you to my dad who happily donated a huge chunk of his airline miles to go towards my ticket!

get out of town: mexico.

2011-03-01T20:06:00.000-08:00

I fell in love with these images by Scout & Catalogue on her recent trip to Mexico of Petite Hotel Hafa. This place is definitely bookmarked, possibly for a sister trip next summer! I have looked at these pictures multiple times..they make me happy on cold, minnesota mornings. I would also buy one of Scout & Catalogue's effortlessly chic scarfs to tromp around in...

to do: 2011.

2011-02-14T18:36:00.001-08:00

I really thrive on a good to do list, so this year I entitled my goals list as"To do: 2011." I think it is so important to have a written list of things you want to accomplish and to have them up in a place that is in your daily life. I like to have a list that varies from silly to serious and mixes them together...I've already checked a few things off! I hope you have a lot of challenging and fun things to check off your list this year..

i heart MN: luminary loppet.

2011-02-14T18:09:00.000-08:00

Another reason I love Minnesota...people came out in droves last weekend for the Luminary Loppet right in the heart of the city. A loppet is a scandinavian word for a cross country ski race. This wasn't technically a race, more of a beautiful ski stroll around Lake of the Isles that was lit all along the path by ice sculptures and luminaries. It was only my second time on cross country skiis, but we had an amazing time. And can I just say that there are some super moms living here in Minnesota who were skiing along with 2 kids in tow in little sled pods with skiis on the bottom! Inspiring..hope you enjoy these pictures from my skiing adventure at the loppet! We ended the night at one of my favorite spots, a little french restaurant called Barbette..

be inspired: hello sandwich.

2011-02-14T17:40:00.000-08:00

i hope you all have stumbled upon this beautiful blog on your blogging adventures...this lovely graphic designer living in Tokyo sweeps you off your feet right into her little Tokyo neighborhood and captures so much of this lovely city. I especially love the amazing little street apartments she manages to find as well as her lovely gift wrapping ideas. You must add her as one of your favorites.

See more at hello sandwich!

la la land memories: gjelina.

2011-02-07T18:56:00.000-08:00

Per our bosses suggestion, Lisa and I headed out for dinner on the first night to Gjelina in Venice Beach. We had actually walked by it on our stroll down Abbott Kinney earlier that day and it had definitely caught our eye...natural wood paneling on the outside, no sign, and a bunch of pretty chic locals hanging out outside... The first night we dined on Grilled Russian Kale with Yogurt Dressing & Toasted Hazelnuts, Roasted Acorn Squash with Hazelnut Brown Butter & Rosemary..and one of the most dreamy dishes I have ever put in my mouth...the Maitake Mushroom Toast with Creme Fraiche & Truffle Oil (pictured above). OMG. I am not even a big mushroom gal and wow. We actually ended up heading back again the next night! If you ever find yourself in LA, a trip to Gjelina will not disappoint.

la la land memories: tacos.

2011-02-07T18:28:00.000-08:00

oh my...well, let's just say we had our fill of fresh, cheap, glorious tacos in LA. Our trip started with a taco truck and ended with a taco truck (we literally pulled a U-y in the street before pulling into the Enterprise lot after seeing one last truck..it was a sign. We HAD to stop.) Don't they look beautiful?? I also love the painted lettering on the trucks..yum yum yum!

Also, I have added owning a taco truck to my bucket list..i mean, i do already have a taco costume to advertise in..

la la land.

2011-01-18T18:06:00.001-08:00

i am heading to sunny LA tomorrow and am pinching myself! This will be my very very first time to California...I will be on a shopping and inspiration trip for our team at Target looking out for exciting things for our next Spring season. These are some shots from the Viceroy hotel in Santa Monica where we will be crashing.:)

p.s. I haven't seen the beach in about 3 years.

p.p.s It is supposed to be -19 in Minneapolis on Friday. It will be 73 in Santa Monica.

And thanks to Oh Joy! for all of her wonderful food suggestions! Maybe I'll run into you when we are checking out Silver Lake!

sweet jams.

2011-01-16T17:32:00.001-08:00

what are you listening to as you are sewing (don't you love the colors of these pins i picked up at joann's today?) away or relaxing on a saturday morning or scrubbing the floors? Here's what I have been listening to lately:

1. Blame it on the Boogie- Jackson 5

2. Rhinestone Eyes- Gorillaz

3. Take it Easy- Surfer Blood

4. Marathon- Tennis

5. Stay Close- Delorean

6. One Hundred Million Years- M. Ward

7. Feel it on the Southside (Washed Out vs. Birdman)- The Hood Internet

8. Home (RAC Mix)- Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros

I have to thank the peeps over at The Flash Dance for their awesome playlists and guest playlists! I was in a slight music funk and am completely inspired again!

be inspired: bigBANG studio.

2011-01-16T16:56:00.000-08:00

I am so glad I happened upon this blog last week. I spent hours reading through artist Lily Stockman's current adventures in India with her husband and found reading her stories especially inspiring at the start of this new year. She is a great example of seizing opportunities and has inspired me to keep all windows of opportunities wide open. Her photography also inspired me to invest in a new SLR camera sometime this year! Her blog is a must read. All photos from BigBANG studio.

mother rabbit cooks.

2011-01-16T15:07:00.000-08:00

I received a treasure for Christmas. My mom compiled all the recipes that we grew up with and she is still proficient in making into a beautiful book entitled, "Mother Rabbit Cooks." Every page tells a story of where the recipe came from and tips and tricks from Mother Rabbit herself. I am blessed to have a mother who values the time around the table as a family and spending time in the kitchen. She has taught me to eat fresh, local foods, to always use whole milk and real butter, and I would never ever dream of buying a cake, cupcakes, or cookies from the store. I love being able to appreciate all the wonderful things about my mom in a whole new way as an adult...thank you mother rabbit!

mr. little guy.

2011-01-16T14:56:00.001-08:00

I know I have told you about the gnome, excuse me, tree elf, that lives at lake harriet, right? There is a little door in a tree around the running path that is always occupied by a few little kids (or adults;) huddled around it, peering in, and leaving notes, trinkets, and whatever else they want. When Emily and Paul were in town this summer, we all wrote Mr. gnome notes and left them in the tree. I had heard he writes everyone back, but it was hard to believe. It was truly one of the best days of my summer when I opened that little door, flipped through all the notes, and found mine! It now lives in my type case holder in my kitchen. How magical!

a southern girls guide to winter.

2011-01-16T14:19:00.001-08:00

This is my third winter here in Minneapolis, and while this has most definitely been the worst weather wise, I must say my spirits (no pun intended;) and outlook about this season here in the North are better than ever. There are a few very tangible things that I have discovered to help me in these cold months that I thought I would share with you.

1. Invest in real-deal winter boots.

I bought my Sorel boots last winter and have never been the same. The traction is unlike any other pair of boots I have seen and you feel invincible against any pile of snow or icy lake. These boots mean business..I also think they are quite chic in a mountain man kind of way and wear them with just about everything.

2. Have a great warm pair of mittens.

These fleece lined mittens have been with me for 2 winters and I love 'em!

3. Whiskey

Ladies, winter sucks sometimes and heading out for late night sledding with a little hard stuff in your pocket is kinda fun. It warms the bones..it's true. When I asked my sister's for a flask for Christmas, there was a bit of silence on the other end of the phone, until I said, "Have you forgotten that I live in the frozen tundra and a girls gotta stay warm??"

merry christmas.

2010-12-26T23:05:00.001-08:00

this video is absolutely darling...i have watched it 3 times...a very merry christmas to you!

thank you haylie for the link!

2010-12-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

need a last minute gift? how about these amazing popcorn and chip bowls from Blue Carrot Shop?

lovely belgium.

2010-12-21T08:39:00.000-08:00

If you haven't seen lovely Amy Merrick's pictures from her recent trip to Europe with her sister, you have to pop over to Apple a Day and take a look. Her pictures from Belgium are especially dreamy and have me longing to experience another culture again. I love how she captured this beautiful part of Europe.

what would i do without hunt & gather...

2010-12-21T07:22:00.000-08:00

I know you have heard it before, but Minneapolis has THE best vintage finds store, Hunt & Gather. Not having access to this magical place in any other city would be a BIG adjustment for me...guess I'll have to stay in Minneapolis! My apartment sure wouldn't look the same, seeing as every wall is decked out with something I have found there. Everytime you walk through the door, the whole store looks completely different. The women there are visual geniuses... It is the most cluttered, uncluttered, beautiful mess of old stuff I have ever seen. I love hunt & gather!

2010-12-20T17:40:00.000-08:00

how AMAZING is this hat? I want one!

new things at target!

2010-12-20T17:07:00.001-08:00

I think this might be one of my favorite sets at Target that I have worked on..These graphics are some of my favorites and I hope you and your little daughters or nieces or sisters do to! There is a little printed polka dot sweater that goes with these outfits too, but I haven't seen them in the store yet!

home.

2010-12-20T16:58:00.000-08:00

I have started a little collection of house pictures and scenes that I hope to keep adding to. It started after I purchased the matted picture seen above at V&J Duncan print shop in Savannah..I bought it with the hopes of having a little house similar to it one day..

2010-12-14T16:51:00.000-08:00

awesome image by William Castellana. See more here.

ring in the new year...

2010-12-14T16:44:00.000-08:00

...with this beautiful calendar! I am swooning over this beautiful calendar by Michelle Armas. Get it here.

snow my gosh.

2010-12-14T16:31:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you know by now that I live in the frozen tundra of Minneapolis. I must say, although I just experienced "the worst storm since 1991" this past weekend..it hasn't diminished my love for this city. You get to participate in an array of winter sports that can keep you busy during these long, cold months...ice skating on the lakes, cross country skiing, snow tubing, sledding, biking (i still see SO many bikers all throughout the city), snowshoeing...Check out these beauties I found today from the amazing Kauffman Mercantile. A tad out of my price range, but boy would I love to own these.

christmas in my apartment.

2010-12-11T14:47:00.001-08:00

I love decorating for christmas and have had fun over the last years collecting vintage christmas knick-knacks to add to my stash. Here are a few snapshots from around my apartment...I am currently snowed in as buckets of snow are continuing to pour down on Minneapolis..18 inches! People have just been tromping down the streets in their boots instead of driving. Oh Minnesota...

hi there!

2010-12-10T18:41:00.000-08:00

dear blog readers, i hope you don't hate me and will keep reading my blog once i get into a better routine here. I must admit my job always gets really crazy around this time and my blog has taken a back seat because of it. There are lots of SUPER exciting things going on at Target that you will have to wait till next year to hear about unfortunately, but worth the wait! I will be heading home to Nebraska for the holidays and hope to be blogging and catching you up a bit during that time.

I was so excited to get a text from my mom last Saturday because during her regular stop at Nifty Thrifty on Saturday, she found me a beautiful new kitchen table I just can't wait to get in my kitchen! Bright, cheery, and yellow...love it.

scenes from home.

2010-11-02T18:45:00.001-07:00

curtains in the kitchen..

handpainted Dala horse by local 90 yr. old artist Grace Shrock...

Great Grandma Eunice Wallersteadt's pillow next to my blanket from Intro to Weaving...

homegrown pumpkins from my mom's garden...

texas girl.

2010-11-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

I am very proud to be (part) texan. While I wasn't born there, I spent 10 of my growing up years as a Texan. I remember when my mom told me we were moving there in 4th grade truly believing that we were heading to a land of desert and cactuses where everyone was donning a cowboy hat. What I didn't know is that, instead, we were heading to a land that smelled of fresh tortillas and where the magnificent salsa flowed like water. Yes, I fell in love with Mexican food and Tex-Mex while living in Dallas, and my love continues even in the nothern frozen tundra. All this to say, I totally dressed up like a taco this year...it was amazing.
ps. If you ever find yourself in Houston, I would strongly suggest you get yourself to Lupe Tortilla, one of my favorites (pictured above).

oh to live in the olden days.

2010-10-25T18:52:00.000-07:00

what if this was your calling card...even better..what if you were a balloonist! love it.

See more absolute amazingness here.

easy breezy.

2010-10-25T17:23:00.000-07:00

what a picture of the beautiful grace kelly.

memories from the Louvre.

2010-10-25T17:05:00.000-07:00

Some of the sweetest memories of my life were spent in France my junior year of college...On our week trip to Paris from the countryside in Provence, one of the many things we did of course, was getting lost at the Louvre. While there were many beautiful things to see, I must say I could have spent almost all my time with the Flemish still lifes, by artists like Snyders, Utrecht, and Jan de Heem...It was the combined pleasure of the brilliant colors, the preciseness, and the juxtaposition of so many quirky things within one frame, that contributed to my slight obsession with these beautiful works. I hope you enjoy these pictures from my trip!

sketchbooks.

2010-10-22T08:53:00.000-07:00

By far, one of my very favorite parts of going to SCAD and especially in our Fibers department, was the emphasis on sketchbooks. I absolutely loved the practice of documenting my process visually on the page. I treated each page as a project in itself and still treasure every sketchbook I have. I even keep my Senior Collection notebook (some pages shown above) at work with me and when I find myself getting frustrated or uninspired, I flip through it and am able to almost reconnect and remind myself of who I am. I have continued to work in a sketchbook at work and have found that the practice of turning around from my computer screen and turning to my sketchbook is such a necessary part of staying connected with why I love what I do in my fast-paced work environment. Every season, I map out for myself what graphics I want to do and use mini sketches to start my process (shown above). Then I start drawings for each graphic, scan them in, and finish them in Photoshop. The cuckoo clock was a graphic that didn't make it into our final line.

I also found the page that inspired the work I did for Working Class Studio the other day, so thought I would share that with you! Also, the Working Class journals were featured in "the Nest" magazine!

more fall.

2010-10-06T18:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry, i can't help but share some more fall pictures. It has been absolutely idyllic here in Minneapolis. I have found myself multiple times stopping in my tracks because the trees right now literally take your breadth away. They look like they are on fire and everyday the leaves colors change just slightly..I think part of me also knows that in a snap, the temperature will drop and winter will be here. There's nothing like an incoming Minnesota winter to make you appreciate every little changing leaf of fall.

fall.

2010-09-27T17:35:00.000-07:00

brimfield antique show.

2010-09-21T18:44:00.000-07:00

well, let's just get it out there... i can't believe i could ever say this, but i was absolutely sick of looking at everything vintage after Brimfield. wow. talk about visual overload! it was an amazing thing to finally see after hearing about it for so long, but i must say, it made me oh so thankful for the wonderful places for thrifting i have right at my fingertips here in minneapolis, especially hunt and gather. i hope you can all visit me up here so i can take you there! I came home with some fun things though: linens of course (i was drawn to the red ones this time), a great sifter, an old letter block holder, scarfs, and these amazing needlepoint ladies.

queen of florals.

2010-09-21T18:15:00.000-07:00

check out these great photos of the Cath Kidston's home in the latest Lonny Magazine. I also love her advice..which I need to hear...florals don't need to be evvveerywhere. See more here.

make way for ducklings.

2010-09-21T18:02:00.001-07:00

one of my favorite pieces of public art is the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture in Boston Commons. I have a picture by it when I was little, so of course Mother Rabbit recreated the moment!

beacon hill.

2010-09-21T17:29:00.000-07:00

here are some pictures of my recent visit to boston! what a beautiful city...i found myself imagining living there and loving life...as long as i didn't have to drive. sheesh! every corner on beacon hill, you were greeted by a old door or a beautifully hand painted window sign...

boston bound!

2010-09-06T17:50:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be traveling to Massachusetts this week for the Brimfield Antique show and spend a day in Boston too! I'll be shopping for vintage textile inspiration for work and will hopefully pick up some real gems for myself too...I'm hoping I can focus and not get too overwhelmed and excited...yay!

working class studio for scad.

2010-08-23T16:56:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of working with Working Class Studio the summer after graduating. Working Class is SCAD's very own production company, designed by students, alumni, and faculty with their product lines are sold at retailers across the country. Above are some product shots of Working Class's new Fall Line feauturing some of my prints! Hope you like them! All the products are sold online right here or see if Working Class is sold at a store near you here!

Kk is for Kara.

2010-08-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

Beautiful work from fellow precious fibers girl, Kara Wentz. See more at Kara's blog, Kk is for Kara.

new things at target!

2010-08-21T20:22:00.000-07:00

More Cherokee little girls clothes in stores now! I'm especially excited about some of these graphics!

saturday farmer's market.

2010-08-21T20:14:00.000-07:00

Had a great trip to the Minneapolis Farmers Market this morning with some wonderful friends... picked up some beautiful vegetables, cucumbers, yellow carrots, tomatillos, an array of tomatoes, home grown pears, and these little guys called ground cherries, which are the sweetest tasting little tomatoes...yum yum.

adventurers.

2010-08-10T18:25:00.000-07:00

We also headed out to the University of Minnesota Arboretum, which is about 1,000 acres of different gardens, trees, praries and trails. Despite the fact that it was a scorcher, we braved our ways through some trails and enjoyed being outside.

hunt and gather.

2010-08-10T16:57:00.000-07:00

I also took em and paul to a minneapolis staple, hunt and gather, one of my favorite spots for a visual treat and to buy things I very much don't need. I love the way they get so much stuff in every room...love love it. Enjoy these pics from around the store!

the country bunny.

2010-08-09T19:51:00.000-07:00

While ay Wild Rumpus, Emily introduced me to the book The Country Bunny, written by Du Bose Heyward and illustrated by Marjorie Hack, published in 1939. I truly can't believe I hadn't seen this beautiful story before...you must read it! I'll just tempt you now with some of the beautiful pages...

wild rumpus.

2010-08-09T19:31:00.000-07:00

So many sweet memories from this weekend! Emily and Paul came to Minneapolis to see me and it was oh so fun to have them in my city...and I got to take them to some of my favorite places! First on the list was Wild Rumpus, a children's book store in the precious neighborhood of Linden Hills. You can walk through the big door, or the little door, and could be greeted by a number of fine feather or furry friends...chickens, cats, chinchilas, lizards..It's the kind of place that makes you want to stay there all day long and read every story you can...p.s. I kinda fell in love with Amelia the chinchila too.

new project!

2010-07-28T20:00:00.000-07:00

when i was home for the fourth, i picked up 2 of these chairs for $10 each thanks to the vision of dear katie who has a knack for house and furniture projects! I am going to cover them with a great vintage fabric i picked up and maybe paint them up in a quirky green...

in stores now!

2010-07-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

here are a few more snapshots around the store of some things i worked on! Some new Circo Newborn product as well as my first rack of Cherokee Toddler Girl graphic t's and skirts!

i love wisconsin...

2010-07-27T18:53:00.000-07:00

I headed out in the Bug last weekend to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin for a little vacation with the fam. I must say, if you haven't had the privilege visiting Wisconsin OR Minnesota, you must get your little self up north. The farmland in Wisconsin is truly beautiful..rolling green hills, picturesque red barns, and black and white cows...oh my..and talk about some precious, well-kept, cultured small towns. I made a special trip through Mazomanie, a lovely spot, to treat myself to a little vintage hideaway close to dear emily's home. Above are a few snapshots..I'll post what I got soon!

new things at target!

2010-07-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

i have been awful about posting about my stuff in the stores and i promise i will try and be better! for now, here is a snapshot of the new newborn Circo bath merchandise I worked on in stores now!

lisa and jesse.

2010-07-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

I have been having a blast working on Save the Dates and wedding invites this summer, one of my favorites being my friend Lisa's! They are getting married near their family cabin in Wisconsin, so that is the feel I wanted to reflect in the invite...My friend Carolyn did the amazing calligraphy!
So happy for these two!

**Are you or a friend getting married?? let me know! I would love to work on a custom Save the Date or Invite for you! Send me an email at abbyhyslop@gmail.com.

a new fave...

2010-07-27T18:08:00.000-07:00

one of my new favorite dresses from a vintage store in my new neighborhood...

from the garden.

2010-07-27T18:07:00.001-07:00

yummy.

2010-07-27T17:53:00.001-07:00

love this image from louisa hennessy via creature comforts. It's now the desktop on my work computer...

independence day...

2010-07-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

I spent a wonderful weekend at home in Oakland. How is it that I can so easily unwind, forget about my life, and slip right into the small town, rural Nebraska life every time I drive past that "Oakland, The Swedish Capital of Nebraska" sign? Sigh. I guess that is the magic of home. Much of our weekend was spent in the hospital holding hands and singing to my sweet grandfather as he passed away... He is an irreplaceable part of our family but we were able to celebrate so much about his life and legacy. One of my favorite parts about this time of year is obviously the fresh food all around us. We spent alot of time in both my mom's garden at the Little House as well as our neighbor Bill's beautiful, huge garden which he so generously lets us eat from. It is truly a sight to see..rows and rows of lettuce, cabbage, radishes, carrots, potatoes, peas, tomatoes, corn, eggplants, cucumbers..You name it, he has a whole row of it. We also got to visit the farm my mom is now getting fresh cream, eggs and chickens from. I am glad she can support and appreciate what they are doing on their farm. If I didn't have to work every day, I think I would take a few weeks off and go be an "intern" at their farm! Love it. Love the 4th. Love my fam.

mother rabbit.

2010-06-27T20:54:00.000-07:00

I have an amazing mother. The older I get, the more I realize how she has shaped what I am growing to appreciate and value. She values so many of life's little details, whether it's her antique vintage rooster bowl she puts her brewed tea bag in every morning, or her practice of journaling every day (she even wrote journals to us when we were little), or her desire to eat locally as much as she can (she is now getting farm raised fresh chickens!), she is now sharing some of her tips, tricks, and advice on her blog, Mother Rabbit Says: Tips for Leaving the Nest. You must pop over and read some of these very wise lessons...one of my favorites, which my mom lives by, is always use whole milk when cooking. The day I see my mom buy a gallon of skim milk, will be the day pigs fly...and she is much smaller than me too, mind you.

how was your weekend?

2010-06-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

I hope it was great! I can't tell you how much I love Minneapolis in the summer. The city is alive..literally. And my bike is making things so fun. I did some more unpacking, ate a brat at the farmers market, filled up my bottles with flowers, rode my bike in the rain..that's all. Happy Monday!

bike adventures: oriental market.

2010-06-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

Tonight i braved the city on my bike. I'm still a little nervous riding around with all the big ole' cars, but I am encouraged by the hoards of minnesotans riding around all over the place during the summer. I headed to the Shuang Hur Oriental Market to peek around and get some goods for dinner. In my basket were bean sprouts, baby bok choy, rice vinegar, sesame seeds..I found myself picking up bottles i liked and throwing them in just for fun! It was a visual treat and some of the packaging was pretty amazing. I loved the sliming tea section. So fun biking home with a backpack full of fun things to experiment with...

green thumb update.

2010-06-20T19:46:00.000-07:00

here are some updated pics of my little planter garden! Things have really taken off. I've had fresh spinach and lettuce and am starting to get lots of little tomatoes from the plant my mom brought up for me. My first strawberries have also popped up this week! Another little update, I finished my second half marathon this weekend! It was a great weekend with friends and I am excited to run another..but not for a while..