Showing posts with label Gift. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gift. Show all posts

Monday, April 26, 2010

Please forgive me followers, for I have...

ah, I'm not even Catholic, but feel the guilt of not blogging in some time! My apologies, vacation came and went and here I am.

Ok, back at it and tonight there is a fantabulous truly under-the-Radar (my favorite type) jewelry event that I must share. It's so underground that it's a paper, real paper invite....





It's the creative creations of Heidi B (B Designs), I've blogged about her before, so that's two, two Radar stamps. Why? Her offerings range from modern, simple to romantic and Victorian. All our presented so sweetly and professionally throughout her French cottage-like home in So Mpls. Then? She has her friends and Mom serving springy drinks and delicate nibbles which are also displayed amongst her goods. Lastly, her prices are so reasonable, I feel like sliding a few bucks in her authentically restored bread box.

See you there? 7 sharp is my plan and I'll say hi after I've made my way through! Sorry, it's Mother's Day and bridal shower season, time to focus!

5453 Dupont Avenue South

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Happenin' Hair

Usually when I spot a trend that I like, I can't get it out of my head. And I tend to keep it to myself. The latest trend that I have been obsessing over is Hair Pieces/Accessories and this time I'm sharing.

It began with this magazine shot I've had in my office, dreaming of getting married all over again. My God-daughter did ask, "Which one is you Auntie?", so that made it somewhat real...

And since then, all I see is "Hair Wear"...







Last night at The Varsity Theater, 2 red hair bows...



This I pulled from Nylon magazine, I thought it was darn cute, subtle and screams fun...


So I made some. Modeling a couple of my creations are, Kate...


And Grace...
And the one you'll be seeing me in around town...



So who's in on this trend with me? To give you a start, I'm giving away one, Radar "Hair Wear" below, (your choice) to the first person to email me, jen@radar-msp.com, the answer to: "Which came first, the chicken or the egg?" HA, kidding.

Ok, answer first correctly: "How many calories in one piece of Peep candy?"

Then tell me which one you'd like below...

The "Kate " w/gems
The "Hi Top" w/gems

The "Have a Ball" (w/one gem)
The "Grace"

The "Green Day"

Missed out? Radar "Hair Wear" available for $10

Thursday, March 11, 2010

"They Say It's Your Birthday..."

So it was my birthday last week, I celebrated with my marvelous man, Tim and then again with a group of dear friends. I consider myself so lucky to have all these solid people around me.

The day began with breakfast at Al's, it's refreshing, they don't have a website! We as a family of 4 have tried numerous times to go here only to be faced with a long line no teenage hungry boy can stand for. So, I figured my birthday Tues, March 2nd and breakfast for 2 around 10:00 would be no cause for worry. I was right and so happy about the first meal of my 42nd year...

When we arrived I was shooting away all the visual stimulation of this beat-down diner, the life it's been through and the perfect imperfections. They knew it was my day because of the gift I opened from Tim. So when I ordered as everyone should, the Bacon Waffle, it arrived by a staff of 3 singing to a poorly tuned, "Happy Birthday". If you look hard you can see the candle.


I asked real nice if I could have an Al's order pad, and, maybe because it was my birthday, the nice lady gave me one...

I love that the back has grease on it...


Al's is made up of 13 stools (I think), a crooked counter, a stove, a milk dispenser, a load of pre-paid small yellow handmade notebooks for regulars tabs, locally handmade pottery holding salt, pepper and syrup and a colorful staff - all housed within a 10 foot wide space. It's the best in many ways. Go. Take it in. But not on a Saturday or a Sunday, treat yourself on a weekday, that's when it's just you, your Bacon Waffle and the local heros that have kept it thriving.




Then on to my next feast! I was picked up by my friend and was driven in a crazy route to Bar La Grassa, first clue, she knows direction well. As we parked the other friend inside texted us and said, "I'm not feeling well, meet me in the bathroom." So second clue, who congregates in the bathroom? On our loyal way we went to meet her, and bam! I was greeted with a surprise of 10 pals in the private wine room (near the bathrooms). It was a delight to be surrounded by my mix of friends all in the same room! At my (current) favorite place! And knowing I was about to have my favorite Lobster Bruschetta and the Pasta Carbonara...


Then..... the generous gifts that were thoughtfully thoughtful, mixing all the sides to me that my friends know so well.

Here are some that have a local tie:

The brand is "Modern Radar"(!), purchased at Mitrebox...


Knit chain necklace, a gift purchase at local store, "I Like You":


Earrings from StyledLife...


Some with an arty side:

Babushka photo dolls! I can't stand how cute these are!


And music to my ears, "1,000 Recordings To Hear Before You Die". A few of the local call outs include: Prince's, "Dirty Mind", "Lovesexy" and Bob Dylan's, "Blonde on Blonde", 'Blood on the Tracks"...


Many from Tim with a food-theme:

This recipe book is not only stunning in it's simple, raw & organic visual approach, but the direction Thomas Keller takes is inviting: "everyday staples, delicious approachable food, recipes that are doable at home." So days later, I was at a dinner with new locals and discovered one, Kathy Lewinski, of A Good Appetite, is cooking her way though, "ad hoc at home", follow along in her "Julie and Julia"-style adventure.


"Alaea Hawaiian" and "Fleur de Sel, de Guerande" from France: Sea Salts, the perfect accoutrement, toss it even on desserts...


Then there's this sweet salt box, made by handy hands in Duluth...


A 6" Wusthof Chef's Knife! Yep! I am at a point where a gift of a knife fills me with joy! Speaking of blades, did you know? Lunds & Byerly's will sharpen your knives for free within 24 hours? Just grab a sleeve in the Meat/Seafood department. Nothing better than a wickedly sharpened knife.

Speaking of blades again, remember too, your local butcher will cut, slice, dice, cube, butterfly your meat anyway you'd like. They live for that stuff, so utilize the pros, save yourself time and everyone's happy!


All the inspiring food gifts came from the local, Cooks of Crocus Hill and are always wrapped so beautifully in boxes that you will hold onto forever or recycle for your own gift-giving vessel.


And still ahead, birthday celebration with more family and friends: Friday night, my first experience at Manny's Steakhouse. Then next week, Italian at Perron's Sul Lago, a must-have to hit in the Southern suburbs.

To my friends and family, thanks for welcoming in this new year with me and all the local and thoughtful love that went into the day!

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Goings On Around Town


Punch Pizza, Wed, 12/16 only
Bring in a food donation(s) for the Second Harvest food bank and get a free margherita pizza (or 5.95 off any other pizza).CLICK HERE for COUPON
WHERE: All Punch Restaurants

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Crave Minneapolis Buzz Party, Wed, 12/16, 4-7pm
Learn why you will want to get involved with CRAVE, and meet some of the other most creative, interesting, and gutsy proprietresses throughout the greater Minneapolis/St. Paul area!
WHERE: Victory - 3505 W 44th St, Minneapolis

RSVP: Click here

LOVE THIS: StyledLife Shopping events:
SHOW (the) LOVE WOMEN, Wed, 12/16 5-8pm
Ladies sip sparkling wine and pick out gifts for the men in your lives with the help of the STYLEDLIFE® wardrobe experts. While you're there, fill out a STYLEDLIFE® Wish List to leave for your guy to ensure you receive the perfect present. Can't make it to the event? Send your Wish Lists to
STYLEDLIFE®

SHOW (the) LOVE MEN, Thurs, 12/16 5-8pm
Gents can hand over your coat in exchange for a glass of scotch and review your significant other's SL Wish List and choose a sure-fire success to place under the tree.


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Shop Ivy, now-12/24 -Join Ivy for fun Holiday Shopping & receive 25% off our finest selection of shoes, handbags, and clothing including lines such as DVF, Gestuz, Black Halo, PLV, Christopher Deane and much much more!
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Ivy Hotel Holidazzle Deal - Located just 2 blocks from Nicollet Mall via skyway, the HOTEL IVY is offering $5.00 valet event parking in our underground heated garage on the evenings of the Holidazzle Parade!

Come for the parade and stay for dinner. Enjoy a special Holidazzle Holiday menu in Porter & Frye restaurant. Kid's menu complete with hot cocoa and dessert for just $5.95!
Ivy Hotel

Are you on my E-mail list? More insider info there! Just sign-up above.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Guys, Dolls and More!

Another weekend full of local love...

"Bring your husband, boyfriend, girlfriend or co-worker to enjoy unique and complex pairings and as the flavors enlighten their palate, you can lighten the load with easy Holiday Gift shopping at your finger tips with jewelry from Silpada."

"Mary and her staff will be happy to talk about pairing beers with chocolate and how the different styles of breweries compliment different flavor profiles found in cacao."

WHEN: Friday, December 11th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
WHERE: Chocolat Celeste
2506 University Ave. West, St. Paul
RSVP: 651.644.3823

It's a great time to order your holiday gifts. 15% off all gift boxes of truffles and bonbons !



Guys, guys, guys, the last sale at MartinPatrick3, I Twittered, I Tweeted while Tim sipped high-end Scotch while trying on and purchasing 4 killer hats, all at 25% off. A couple of you went, some of you wondered if you should have. Now here's your second chance:

WHEN: Tomorrow, Sat, 12/12 from 1-4,
WHAT: 20% off Watches, Valet Boxes & Shaving Sets


WHEN: Saturday, December 12th, 7pm
WHAT: CURSTER'S DOLLMIGHTY Fashion Show



"Local Minneapolis artist Erin Currie creates extraordinary creatures know as Curster. Now Currie will spin her magic in the runway debut of a stunning clothing line inspired by the Curster’s aesthetic, Curster’s Dollmighty Fashion Show. The clothing is an artfully constructed layering of rich fabrics and hand embroidery, resulting in one of a kind dresses and casual wear with the perfect mixture of coquette, Victorian princess and Tank Girl."

"Also in SooVAC's Gallery Too, starting this weekend, we will be displaying various Curster creations, including plush sculpture, prints, paintings and t-shirts. A perfect one stop boutique for everything Curster!"


X-mas Sweater Bonanza Local Music Show!!

WHEN: Saturday, December 12th, music goes from 6:30 to 10pm
WHERE: The Beat (28th and Henn. Uptown)
WHO: Minor Kingdom w Total Babe and the Chord and the Fawn.

5$ or 3$ if you- wear an ugly sweater.



WHEN: 12/11, 12/17 and 12/18 @ 7:00 p.m.
WHAT: "Pink Pearls" Holiday Variety
WHERE: Neisen's Event Center Savage, MN

Last night I had a date with my parents, Bob and Mariel. We met at the Buffalo Tap in Savage before the "Pink Pearls" show. The Buffalo Tap alone was a treat, my Dad goes every Tuesday with the church guys, so he's a bit of a celeb there. Owner, John greeted us, said he had a "great table over here for you", then he continued to stop by a few times to make sure we where satisfied. Server Joanne, continued to mention the great reviews about the "Pink Pearls" show while chatting about her grand kids. It was a classic Minnesota dining experience, and I loved it.

So we ended dinner at 6:20, when my Dad said, "we better go". The show was 2 blocks away, so the 40 minutes he allowed was pretty safe. He he.

Two blocks away brought us to the Neisen's Sports Bar & Grill. Now I'm guessing this is the Mike Neisen I graduated with from Burnsville HS? Anyway, Neisen's holds quite the range of "entertainment" such as midget wrestling, cage fighting, Thai boxing and what we were after, the "Pink Pearls" Holiday Show.



We had a front row seat, so it paid to be early, right Dad? The show was just what I needed to really get into the holiday spirit. A combination of "Eileen Pearls" self-help inspiration through comedy, tribute songs, classic Christmas songs and original songs written & performed by the three, 100% Norwegian sisters, Kjersten, Alisa & Kara, who make up the "Sister Production". I kept imagining "Pink Pearls" would fit well into a Garrison Keillor show. The song, "The Aunts" is a nod to their beloved Mom & her two sisters which included a simple "Food, Food, Food" chorus. Throughout the song, the sisters danced & sang on and off stage, bringing out loads of food - lefse, hotdish, pies and more hotdish. A tribute song, "Rollin, Rollin' Rollin" sang with choreographed rolling pin moves and original lefse lyrics, was quite adorable. The classic Christmas songs were performed beautifully, "O Holy Night", "Do You Hear What I Hear" and many more. My favorite song, "Snow", an original written by Kara, was stunning and reminded me what it means to be a Minnesotan, I included lyrics below.

If you have MN roots, which many of you do, "Pink Pearls" is a light-hearted, feel-good Holiday toast to chasing your dreams, embracing who we are, where we come from and the land we love, especially at this time of year.

SNOW
We know it's cold in Minnesota
they wonder why we stay
smile at each other jokin' about how we're movin' south someday but the snow comes and goes and we're still here storm after storm year after year old man winter is stubborn and proud and so are the folks who keep hanging around

Blow snow blow
blow us into next year
sit at the window during a storm and watch the neighbors house disappear blow snow blow from here to kingdom come my car won't start my toes are numb and I wouldn't trade places with anyone

Winter is long in Minnesota
the snow birds take to flight
the source of the north
the days run short
sunlight drains into the basin of night
we're a little thick headed and a little thick skinned we lace our boots up and we dig our heels in but everyone bows and bends and spins when there's a clipper in the wind

Baton down the hatches, secure the locks and latches get beneath the quilts bright patches before the Iceman snatches

Blow snow blow
Blow in your downy night
release the geese
reveal the swan
trump the grey with a blanket of white
Blow snow blow
and cover everything
beneath the sheet your work complete
your masterpiece unveiled in spring

Blow snow blow
blow in as bright as morn
and the in the quiet after the storm
I'll be right here in the place
I was born.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Sugar Sugar is Sweet!

Sugar, ah honey honey
You are my candy girl
And you've got me wanting you.
Honey, ah sugar sugar
You are my candy girls
And you got me wanting you

My sweet tooth has been around, oh, since the beginning, my cavities are proof of my dying love for it. A true story, when I was a kid, I wanted to own Abdullah's Candies, it was my favorite place to go and spend my hard earned ironing-shirts-money.

Enough about me. I am beyond thrilled that new store, Sugar Sugar has opened! It's all candy!!!! Beautiful candy. Candy mustaches, candy perfume, bulk candy, chocolate candy shavings for your food or coffee, hard candy, basic candy, fancy candy. Candy. What gets my sweet tooth about Sugar Sugar is the beautiful packaging of the charmers. Making the gift of candy, a slam dunk.









What's also sweet about Sugar Sugar, for those who love graphics, is that the logo was done by Elvis Swift. The doodling expert.


My personal favorite line at Sugar Sugar, is Barcelona-based, Papabubble. So stunning, their candy rings were worn in one of New York fashion weeks runway show. Check out how it's made before it arrives on the shelf.



So whatever your sweet tooth screams for, head to Sugar Sugar and get your sugar high on!