Sydney's Vintage Clothing

If you're into vintage clothing and have the internet, I'm sure you have heard of them. Sydney's Vintage Clothing has one of the largest selections of vintage clothes I've seen. I was fortunate enough to get to meet Sydney and her husband at their real-life shop in Auburn, where I went to college. In addition to selling vintage clothing, it was really nice to see a old-fashioned mom-and-pop shop run with friendly shopkeepers. I feel like I've gotten to know them, and they are a really nice couple. Recently Sydney asked to feature me on her blog as a graphic designer! I am really excited! You can click here to view the post. If you have a minute, please leave a comment or question! :)

The Tree of Life

Today I watched this movie for the second time since it came out in theaters. I sincerely believe that it is the most beautiful movie ever made in the history of mankind. It deals with the relationship between man and his creator with reverence and delicacy. The entire movie uses natural lighting and some of the most breathtaking scenes you will ever see. The music, the scenery, the cinematography, the characters, the nostalgia, the intimacy—are all what makes it so magnificent. You will get goosebumps!!

But don't expect lightheartedness or fast pace or even explanation. This is a somber movie, meant to speak to the very core of each person's individuality and humanity. What makes us question our existence and purpose more than suffering and great loss? This is not God as the burning bush or the storm, but rather God as the whisper of the wind. It is both symbolic and intimate.

We are so caught up in our technological society that we forget how still and quiet things used to be. How kids played outside and learned about the world through nature itself. How neighbors depended on each other. How authoritative most fathers were, and how submissive yet brave were the women. I recommend this movie only if you are prepared to accept the contemplative nature of it—because you cannot watch it and remain unaltered.

[Edit - June 13, 2012]

I saw today this comment on the Facebook page for Tree of Life. It was so perfectly and beautifully put, I thought I would add it to my post:

"There are not enough superlatives in my vocabulary to express how much I love this film. It is not something you watch. It is something you live through. It has left me an emotionally open wound, but I wouldn't have it any other way. It is, perhaps, the most important movie made in the sound era. It is not easy. It is not always nice. It is, however, always magnificent." (-Matt Pinkerton)

Diner Table

My brother came to visit yesterday and brought with him my kitchen diner table that a friend was holding on to for me. Awhile back, we bought this at a huge antique mall called Angel's Antiques. We went there several times over the course of a month and each time I had to impulsively check if it was still there. In the end, I had to buy it. And I pretty much ended up designing my house around it! It was the first piece of furniture I ever bought, and is the cause for my aqua obsession. ;)

Because of how old it is though, it's got some rusty spots in certain areas. Does anyone know any tricks to clean that up a little bit? I don't mind adding a little of my own elbow grease. :P