minjae

Unique L.A.

2009-04-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

I had a blast when I went to this event in December so I'll be attending again this weekend. I have a bunch of birthdays as well as a baby shower and a wedding to shop for this year so I'm hoping to find some great one-of-a-kind gifts.

Paper

2009-04-23T15:21:00.001-07:00

I really want to see this exhibit at Scion Space before it ends on May 2. I love all things paper so I've always been fascinated by cutouts and pop-up books. The amount of time involved though is mind boggling! I'd like to incorporated paper items in my Etsy store so I've been jotting down ideas here and there. In the meantime I'll practice with origami. The best online site for origami instruction is Origami Club. Here are a few samples:

A Want, not a Need

2009-04-21T23:51:00.001-07:00

This linen bag by Etsy seller sraige is gorgeous!

2009-04-21T09:43:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to get your free ice cream scoop from Ben & Jerry's today. It's a perfect day for this annual event because it's so hot here in Los Angeles! It's been in the 90s where I am. This morning I left the house with the fan aimed straight at my poor cat Iggy. He looked absolutely miserable!

Grand Opening: The Sewing Lounge

2009-04-16T09:40:00.000-07:00

FIDM alumni Jessica Dooley has just opened The Sewing Lounge in Burbank. The beautiful space is part boutique, part sewing lounge. People who want to learn to sew can take private or semi-private classes. You can also reserve the space for customized sewing parties! The boutique sells handmade items by local crafters and artists (including me!), as well as vintage goods. Here's a first-look photo tour:

The storefront on Magnolia Blvd.

Boutique carries almost everything, including prints by The Mincing Mockingbird and The Frantic Meerkat.

Screen printed tote bags.

Children's clothing.

Jars of buttons.

Sewing goddess Jessica Dooley

Amy Winehouse in her convertible!

Check out the grand opening reception this Saturday from 5-8:00 p.m.

George Harrison

2009-04-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

My favorite Beatle finally gets a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame today. His star will be located in front of the Capitol Records Building at 1750 Vine Street.

My First Cake

2009-04-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

Yippy! I finally made my first felt food. I decided to make a felt cake for my four-year-old niece's birthday. With instructions from the fabulous "Softies: Simple Instructions for 25 Plush Pals" book, I created the base of the cake. I veered away from the book by adding two pieces of piping and an orange as the topper.

Upon presenting my niece with the cake, she tightly scrunched it up in her hand and threw it across the room. To be fair, she was frustrated because her best friend wouldn't play with her. Oh well...

Where the Wild Things Are

2009-04-03T17:20:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for this movie! Directed by Spike Jonze. Music by Karen O and Carter Burwell. Starring Mark Ruffalo, Catherine Keener, Catherine O'Hara, Forest Whitacker and Lauren Ambrose. It can't get any better than that!

2009-04-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

2009-03-27T17:36:00.000-07:00

Let's start the weekend off with a chuckle and a smile. Check out this picture from BeanTownHandmade's Etsy shop. They have the most adorable accessories and apparel for your pet. I'd consider knitting something like this for my cat, Iggy, but he wouldn't stand for it. He won't even let me put a collar on him!

More Yummy Felt

2009-03-26T18:10:00.001-07:00

After yesterday's post about my niece's birthday present, I discovered this wonderful Etsy seller: Lisajhoney.

Her felt box of chocolates look good enough to eat!

Pancakes anyone?

Birthdays, Birthdays, Birthdays!

2009-03-25T10:22:00.000-07:00

April 1 is my little niece's birthday. Poor thing was born on April Fool's Day but I'm not worried about people playing tricks on her. She's tough and spunky so she can take care of herself. She's turning four and I think I found the perfect gifts for her from MOMA.

She loves to pretend that she's fishing so I got her this Wooden Fishing Play Set. The fishes attach to the fishing pole via magnets. Clever!

She also loves to have tea parties so I got her these Plush Petit Fours. I have a feeling I'll be pretend eating these for a long time.

This is just WRONG!

2009-03-18T14:06:00.001-07:00

If you MUST have it, you can buy it here.

2009-03-17T10:20:00.000-07:00

Ninja was feeling down after getting beat up so Karen and Mike took him on a road trip!

Ninja enjoying the view and contemplating the meaning of life.

How fortuitous! Ninja was just wishing he had some "medical" marijuana.

Mmmmm! Beer and oysters! Just what the doctor ordered.

"Cheese!"

Ninja drying off after a nice long bath.

The end to a perfect day.

Thanks Mike and Karen for taking such good care of the ninja and sharing your pics!

A Want, not a Need

2009-03-15T09:28:00.001-07:00

I'm obsessed with dresses now even though I don't wear them much, except for special occasions. I'm always keeping an eye out for dresses that look comfortable, feminine and sexy. I love the simplicity of the Mobius dress from Brookthere's Etsy shop. The zigzag stitching in the skirt adds a modern edge to the dress, which keeps it from looking boring. If only I could justify spending $130 for a dress...

Flight of the Conchords

2009-03-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

I'm so bummed that I didn't get tickets to see Flight of the Conchords at the Greek Theatre in May. It's already sold out! I guess I'll just have to stare at this fabulous poster which won the "Really Arty Flight of the Conchords Poster Search." Check out the ten finalists here.

Proposition 8 Court Hearing Today

2009-03-05T13:37:00.000-08:00

Here again is a reminder of why I really hope Prop. 8 is overturned by the California Supreme Court today.

Kogi Review

2009-03-03T08:45:00.001-08:00

I finally tried the much hyped-about Kogi taco truck. What might have been a very pleasant experience turned out to be not so pleasant thanks to a bunch of people who decided that it was alright to cut in line. Here's the story: My friend and I checked the Kogi Web site and saw that the truck would be in downtown L.A. on Friday night so we headed over early anticipating a long line. When we got there, the line wasn't very long and people were being served rather quickly. After about 20 minutes in line, a group of seven (!) walked in front of us and greeted the couple ahead of us. So it turns out the couple was saving places in line for them. Now, I can understand saving a place in line for one person, maybe two, but seven. That's just rude! So, here's my review:

1. The chicken taco and the bbq taco ($2 each) was really yummy. The tofu burrito ($5) was o.k.

2. You must have gum or mints on hand for after because your breath will smell like chili and sesame.

3. Friendly staff/vendors. (I wonder if they're trained to flirt with their customers?)

4. Be patient: The whole process included waiting in line to order and then waiting again to get your order.

In summary, the food is delicious and well worth the $2, but let's face it, the media hype and having to search out this taco truck is what's making it a sensation right now. I won't be lining up anytime soon.

And finally, DON'T CUT!

Aveda to the Rescue

2009-02-27T15:41:00.000-08:00

I'm loving Aveda's All-Sensitive line of skin care products, especially the cleanser and moisturizer. The cold and dry winter has been wreaking havoc on my skin so I decided to try something new. After one use, my skin felt moist and dewy! I'm also loving the Botanical Kinetics Exfoliant, which is a a liquid exfoliant (salicylic acid) that isn't harsh but works really well.

Results

2009-02-22T21:13:00.000-08:00

Looks like I lost the Oscar pool. I knew I should have picked Penelope Cruz to win Best Supporting Actress. Oh well... This year's show was a bit on the boring side. Although my interest was peaked when Jennifer Aniston had to stand in front of Brad and Angelina (the other woman!) to present the Animation award. I'm realizing as I type this that it's really pitiful that I should even care. I need to volunteer at the animal shelter or something. Focus my brain on something that really matters... Oscar highlights: Dustin Lance Black's screenplay win for "Milk" and Heath Ledger's supporting actor win. Time for some ice cream!

Oscar Predictions

2009-02-22T15:52:00.000-08:00

I'm watching the red carpet ceremony now and anticipating who will win an Oscar tonight. Mainly because I want to win my office Oscar pool! Here are my predictions (not necessarily who I think deserves to win). The main categories only:

Best Picture: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Actor: Sean Penn
Best Actress: Kate Winslet
Best Director: Danny Boyle
Best Supporting Actor: Heath Ledger
Best Supporting Actress: Viola Davis
Best Original Screenplay: Milk
Best Adapted Screenplay: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Foreign Language Film: Waltz with Bashir
Best Original Score: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Documentary: Man on Wire

Now I'm going to order my pizza, get cozy and watch the show.

Picnic Time

2009-02-20T09:41:00.000-08:00

I'm loving these biodegradable plates, bowls and cups from Branch. They are sturdier than your average paper plates, more attractive and good for the environment. You can purchase them in packs of 50 (for cheap!) for all those picnics and outdoor parties you'll be having in the spring!

Be Happy for Heaven's Sake!

2009-02-18T17:26:00.000-08:00

"Angry Ninja" sure is popular today. He got into another Etsy Treasury today and he's still mad! Thanks Blissified!

ETSY Treasury

2009-02-18T13:20:00.000-08:00

Yippy! My "Angry Ninja" was featured on an Etsy Treasury put together by An Englishman in Palm Springs.

Korean Designs at MOMA

2009-02-11T21:49:00.000-08:00

I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the Museum of Modern Art is featuring products by emerging Korean designers. Here are a few of the items that I'm coveting right now:

Spoon and Chopsticks Napkin Set. Only $3.00 for a set of 30!

Korean Meal and Kimchi Magnet Sets. Magnets feature bowls of bean-paste stew, fried fish, rice, fried egg, and an assortment of different types of kimchi.

The online shop includes more than food-related items (I'm just a Korean food junkie). Check out the entire selection at the MOMA online shop.

Black-Eyed Ninja

2009-02-09T15:06:00.000-08:00

After taking it easy for a month from my Etsy shop, I finally added a couple of new Ninja dolls! Here's one of them. Poor thing has a black eye!

Don't forget to get your free Grand Slam today

2009-02-03T11:25:00.000-08:00

Tea and Biscuits

2009-01-28T11:56:00.000-08:00

Nothing is as delightful and calming as tea and biscuits while I work or watch a movie. Currently, I'm loving Lupicia Teas from Japan and LU Biscuits from France. The decaf Muscat tea is my favorite before bedtime and I'm addicted to Le Petit Beurre (butter biscuits). Luckily, LU biscuits can be found in my local grocery store but Lupicia teas can only be bought through their Web site or at their limited store locations.

Lu Biscuits

Lupicia Teas

Tales of Mere Existence

2009-01-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

My friend Revis introduced me to these series of comics called "Tales of Mere Existence" by Levni Yilmaz and I'm addicted. Each one is a gem! Check out the whole series on the official site.

At Last...

2009-01-21T14:59:00.000-08:00

(Time Magazine)

Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2009-01-19T08:23:00.001-08:00

(Illustrated by Etsian Paul Chung)

The excitement of Barack Obama's presidential inauguration is so tangible that I can feel it in the air! This year's Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is especially meaningful because without him, there would be no President-Elect Barack Obama. My heart is full of gratitude.

Paramour

2009-01-12T22:27:00.000-08:00

I recently had a birthday and Karen gifted me with this bag made by the multitalented Quixie. I shed a few tears upon receiving the gift because I know Karen had wanted this bag also. Her generosity really touched me. You can check out more of Quixie's products on her site Paramour.

La Galette des Rois

2009-01-12T22:20:00.000-08:00

During the first weekend of January, I went up to San Francisco to hang out with my dear friends Sophia and Fabrice. Sophia and I mostly ate and shopped while Fabrice worked on a presentation for work. One evening while watching Monty Python's "The Life of Brian," Fabrice held out 3 slices of a pastry I have never had before. It was la Galette des Rois (cake of the kings), a traditional french cake eaten during the holiday with a hidden figurine inside. The person who finds the figurine is king for a day. I carefully ate the delicious pastry hoping not to break my teeth or choke on some foreign object. Lo and behold, I found the figurine in my slice! Sophia put a gold paper crown on my head and we examined the figurine. We couldn't tell if it was a dog or a cow at first but came to the consensus that it was a cow based on it's big nostrils. I think 2009 will be my lucky year!

Can you see the hidden figurine?

The cow is free!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-01-08T11:08:00.000-08:00

+

One of the joys of the new year is being able to start a new slate. I love getting a new planner/calendar and anticipating the upcoming year! I was very tempted to get the Little Otsu Planner but I had already purchased my calendar refills. Oh well...Next year!

Knotty Knitters

2008-12-19T10:59:00.000-08:00

I'm a member of the Knotty Knitters, a knitting/crafting group at work. We meet every thursdays during our lunch hour to knit, but mostly to talk and catch up on the latest news regarding work, family, relationships, etc... all the things that make life interesting and exciting. The talented members include myself, Karen, Heather, Lisa and Kim. This year, I gifted each knotty knitter with Pink Knitters Soap from Karen's Soaps on Etsy. I love the soap! Not only is it perfect for knitters, it also smells really great! She has tons of really wonderful soaps so please check them out.

Monkeyhouse "Wild Wild Kingdom" Show

2008-12-17T08:05:00.000-08:00

My first show was a success! I sold both my dolls on the first night, which I wasn't expecting but very grateful for. In fact, I was standing with some friends when I saw a man pointing to my doll and telling his girlfriend that he wanted to get it. My friend told him that I had made the doll and we all introduced ourselves and talked a bit. I even got a picture of him with my bear!

George of "Citizen L.A." with the "Bear Gone Wild"

Monkeyhouse Toys and Gallery

Some of the dolls on display.

Special thanks to Mayra, Kelly, Kim, Matt, Amy and Roy!

Wild Wild Kingdom

2008-12-03T20:50:00.000-08:00

Two of my handmade dolls will be on display at Monkeyhouse Toys and Art Gallery for the "Wild Wild Kingdom" show.

Unfortunately, I forgot to take photos of my dolls so I can't upload them here as a preview. One is entitled "Bear Gone Wild" (bear is wearing a leopard-print bikini) and the other is a little boy dressed as a white bunny carrying a carrot.

Opening reception is this Saturday from 4:00-8:00 p.m. This is my first show so it'll be exciting to see what other fabric artists are creating!

Boy Toys

2008-12-03T13:42:00.000-08:00

My "Sleepy Ninja" was recently included in an Etsy Treasury by crafter/blogger Meg of Elsie Marley. Check out her blog when you get a chance. She's got some great craft and decorating posts.

Save the Date!

2008-12-02T11:02:00.000-08:00

This event sounds really fun! I'm planning to drop by for the festivities to ring in the Christmas holiday. Artist Kelly Thompson will have a table at the art and gift bazaar and graciously invited me to sell my plushies with her artwork. I'll be by the bazaar to lend a hand. Read more about the event here.

O.k., now I have to make a bunch of ninjas before the event!

A Want, not a Need

2008-12-01T21:04:00.001-08:00

The Francois Dress from Rare Devise is so lovely!

See It!

2008-12-01T20:39:00.000-08:00

I spent most of Saturday working on two dolls for Monkeyhouse Gallery's "Wild Wild Kingdom" show. After many hours of sitting in my house cutting and sewing, I was so happy to get out to see "Milk" at the ArcLight with some friends. I can't recommend it enough! This movie came at the exact moment in history when we need it the most. If anyone is still unclear about why the passage of Proposition 8 is so wrong, please see this movie. I predict Sean Penn will most deservedly win the Oscar. Emile Hirsh, James Franco and Diego Luna also turn out great performances. See it!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-27T23:03:00.000-08:00

Arroyo Arts Collective Re-Discovery Tour

2008-11-24T22:02:00.000-08:00

Participating in the Arts Collective was a new experience for me, both as an artist and as a spectator. The feeling of community among artists and art lovers reinforced in me that art should not be elitist; anyone who creates using his/her imagination is an artist. A special thanks to Kelly for inviting me to participate this year!

Here are some images of the beautiful pieces on the tour.

(Clark Dugger's photography and Kelly Thompson's painting)

(My handmade dolls on display)

(Drawings by young artist Alex)

(Henry observing the spectacle)

(Young entrepreneurs!)

To-Do Tattoos

2008-11-24T21:57:00.000-08:00

This would make a great stocking stuffer for those of us who are very forgetful! 12 tattoos for $3.95 at Wishingfish.com.

Join Me!

2008-11-21T09:45:00.000-08:00

My one-of-a-kind dolls will be on display at the Arroyo Arts Collective Re-Discovery Tour. Artist Kelly Thompson was kind enough to invite me, along with other fellow artists including the mincing mockingbird, Clark Dugger and Kim Bagwill, to show at her home studio in Mount Washington. I'll also be selling my wares there just in time for xmas. Hope to see you there!

Center of Attention #2

2008-11-21T06:47:00.000-08:00

(Iggy cat-napping on my printer)

See It!

2008-11-18T13:00:00.000-08:00

"Slumdog Millionaire" is my favorite movie of 2008. The year is not yet over but I can't imagine I'll like another movie more.

Indie Shopping Heaven

2008-11-16T22:45:00.001-08:00

This year's felt club event was fantastic! I left my home an hour early hoping to snag a swag bag. When I got to the Shrine Auditorium Expo Center, there was already a long line extending around the corner of the building. I thought I missed my chance for a swag bag but I lucked out and got one!

(swag bag contents)

There were tons of great vendors including the Mincing Mockingbird and the Frantic Meerkat. It was hard but I managed to control myself and bought only a few items that I couldn't resist. Great job Felt Club and congratulations to all the vendors!

(view from the top)

(Leslie Hall with fans)

Apply Now!

2008-11-12T14:27:00.000-08:00

BUST magazine (One of the best magazines around!) will be expanding their holiday craft shows to include Los Angeles (in addition to New York and London). The L.A. Holiday Craftacular is on December 6 at the Echoplex in Echo Park. There will be djs, bands, drinks, dancing, and over 50 vendors. If you want to be a vendor, you must apply by Friday, November 14 here.

Save the Date

2008-11-11T11:12:00.000-08:00

I'll be selling my wares at this event on Saturday. Hope to see you there!

Halloween Cupcakes

2008-11-10T07:16:00.003-08:00

I didn't want to let Halloween pass without featuring my sister's tombstone cupcake topper and eyeball cupcakes. I especially love the detail of the skeletal hand (She's an Otis graduate!).

Silver Lake Art Crawl

2008-11-06T12:34:00.001-08:00

If you are free this weekend, check out the Silver Lake Art Crawl. Fellow Etsyan and friend Kim Bagwill will be showing her paintings at Gold Bear Academy and Kelly Thompson will be showing at Monkeyhouse. See you there!

In My DVD Player

2008-11-06T10:19:00.000-08:00

I'm currently hooked on the British crime-series "Hetty Wainthropp Investigates" starring Patricia Routledge ("Keeping Up Appearances") and a young Dominic Monaghan ("Lord of the Rings" Trilogy, "Lost"). Hetty, a retired working-class woman, has a knack for solving crimes. Dominic Monaghan plays troubled youth, Geoffrey, who works as her assistant. The series looks a bit dated and might be slow for some people but I enjoy the laid back feel of Lancashire, England. It's a good show to watch on rainy days.

The Moment of Truth!

2008-11-04T22:59:00.001-08:00

Election Day is Finally Here!

2008-11-04T11:14:00.000-08:00

I can't believe election day is finally here. I voted absentee ballot two weeks ago so I didn't have to deal with any long lines today (thank goodness!). I hope everyone voted or will vote. As an incentive, here are a few freebies being given away today:

Starbucks is giving out free coffee to voters Tuesday to anyone who asks.

Krispy Kreme is giving away star-shaped doughnuts to those with an “I Voted” sticker.

Ben & Jerry’s is giving away a free scoop.

No on Prop 8

2008-10-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

Download your own poster here.

Topshop in the U.S.

2008-10-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

Kate Moss' Christmas 08 collection is now available at Topshop.

Topshop finally opened its flagship store in New York last month and I'm hoping they will open a store in Los Angeles soon. When it opens, I hope it doesn't disappoint as much as H&M. Albeit there are some great bargains at H&M but I think my expectations were too high.

Bubble Calendar

2008-10-26T19:02:00.000-07:00

If I had this Bubble Calendar, I think I would have to pop all the bubbles at once. You can get this fun calendar at Wishingfish.com.

Synecdoche, New York

2008-10-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to see "Synecdoche, New York" at an advance screening sponsored by Flux. The film is written and directed by Charlie Kaufman ("Being John Malkovich," "Adaptation," Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind") and like his other movies, it takes a while to process because of the blurring of reality and fantasy. I still can't pronounce the title, let alone tell you what the movie was about. Personally, I thought the theme of the movie was regret; live your life so that when you come to the end you have no regrets. The highlight of the event was when the film was introduced by producer Spike Jonze and actor Tom Noonan (I just realized he was the serial killer from "Manhunter," which haunted me for days after seeing it!).

Prediction: Another Oscar nomination for Philip Seymour Hoffman!

Heartwarming Story About Obama

2008-10-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

My friend Jeremy sent me this story entitled: "Amazing: Obama Helped Stranded Stranger 20 Years Ago." If you're not a fan of Obama, you will be after you read the story. If you still don't like him, you have no heart.

Michel Gondry at Family

2008-10-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

French writer/director Michel Gondry will be at Family tonight signing his new memoir, "You'll Like this Film Because You're in it" and comic book, "We Won the War but Not the Battle." I would love to go but alas I'm stuck at work.

Pegs on Canvas

2008-10-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

I went to the opening reception of Matt Bilfield's exhibit at Ghettogloss on Saturday and was wowed. I'm usually underwhelmed by what people call "art." If it's something anyone can do, I'm not very impressed. But I was definitely impressed with Matt's work. He uses meticulously placed colored pegs to create comic images. Check out the show if you have the time.

The Center of Attention

2008-10-17T08:27:00.001-07:00

I found Iggy draped on the microwave the other day. He seems to like sitting on appliances for some reason. Maybe it's the warmth, or maybe he just wants to be the center of attention. He sits in front of the t.v. when I'm watching it, sits on my keyboard when I'm on the computer, sits on my papers when I'm trying to do paperwork, etc... If he weren't so cute, I'd swat him away but I grab my camera every time. He's got me trained really well.

E-Cards Don't Have to be Boring

2008-10-16T17:23:00.000-07:00

If you're tired of mainstream, sentimental e-cards, check out Someecards.com.

A Want, not a Need

2008-10-15T12:30:00.000-07:00

This parka is only $39 (originally $110) at Eva Chleo.

SAVE THE DATE!

2008-10-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

I'll be participating in this show and selling my wares.

NOVEMBER 23, 2008

You’ve been wondering, you’ve been asking, When is that artist tour in Northeast Los Angeles anyway? Shouldn’t it be coming up? Well, mark your calendar. Bigger and better than ever, with over 130 artists, 32 of them new to the Tour this year, The Arroyo Arts Collective Re-Discovery Tour will be Sunday, November 23, 2008, 9:30am to 5:00pm, beginning at the Lummis Home, 200 East Avenue 43 (at the Avenue 43 exit of the Pasadena Freeway), Los Angeles, California 90031.

What: The Arroyo Arts Collective Re-Discovery Tour

When: Sunday, November 23, 2008, 9:30am-5:00pm

Where: Begins at the Lummis Home, 200 East Avenue 43, Los Angeles, CA 90031

Tickets: $10 (plus $1 handling) advance on-line purchase, or $15 at the Lummis Home on the day of the Tour.

Echo Park: One of America's 10 Great Neighborhoods

2008-10-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

Echo Park was just distinguished as one of the 10 great neighborhoods in America! As a longtime resident of Echo Park I already knew this, but it's great to be validated by the American Planning Association. I love, love living here. Here's what the APA has to say about my little neck of the woods - Angelino Heights.

"Angelino Heights near Echo Lake is the neighborhood's most picturesque area. More than 50 Victorian homes grace this historic district, which was established in 1983 as the city's first Historic Preservation Overlay Zone. One entire block of Angelino Heights, which also includes Craftsman-style bungalows, brownstones, and Streamline Moderne architecture, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places."

Gay Ninjas in Love

2008-10-10T08:35:00.001-07:00

I made these Ninjas for my friend Michael and his longtime partner Clark. They will wed this weekend after 13 years together. Each ninja has the other's initial on his heart and they can hold hands thanks to some velcro.

I don't want to rant but it's about time they had the right to marry! If you are a California resident, please vote "no" on Proposition 8, which eliminates the right of same-sex couples to marry.

Read about Michael and Clark's story here.

Gay Wedding Bears

2008-10-10T08:34:00.003-07:00

My sister commissioned these dolls for a gay couple getting married on Saturday. I personalized the bears by adding glasses to one and choosing their color based on their race. This interracial couple adopted a little boy that we wanted to include as well, so he's the ring "bear"er. Congratulations!

By the way, I only learned the following word last night:

gayby: a baby with 2 parents of the same gender

Andrew Rae

2008-10-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I attended the "Park Life" opening reception at Subliminal Projects Gallery in Echo Park. Of all the artists there, my favorite was Andrew Rae. His illustrations are fun, whimsical and current. Check out more of his work on his interactive Web site.

Celebrity siting: Sin City's Jaime King.

Anthony Goicolea

2008-10-02T17:37:00.000-07:00

I love to craft but my first love is photography. One of my most favorite contemporary photographers/artist is Anthony Goicolea. His work features different staged scenes (usually within a series) where he portrays multiple characters. I think his work is technically and aesthetically flawless.

Tim Tams at the Landmark Theater

2008-10-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

The Landmark Theater in Westwood must have the best concession ever! They have Pocky (Japanese biscuit sticks coated with chocolate), Hebrew National Hot Dogs (no disgusting fillers), pizza, vegan cookies and, best of all, Tim Tams! I first discovered Tim Tams last year on my first trip to Australia. The chocolate covered cookie is so addictive that I still think about its rich and delicious yumminess a whole year later. Check out the rest of the menu for other delights.

October: National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2008-10-01T10:29:00.001-07:00

I went for my annual physical on Monday and during my breast exam the doctor found a mysterious lump. The doctor told me that it probably wasn't anything to worry about but she wanted to schedule a mammogram just to make sure it wasn't cancerous. How appropriate that it is now October: National Cancer Awareness Month. This year in particular I feel like cancer is all around me. My father was diagnosed with colon cancer in April and was successfully treated in May through surgery. Cancer has been in the news a lot recently because of actress Christina Applegate's double mastectomy at age 36 and Paul Newman's recent death from lung cancer. I'm waiting for my health insurance to approve the mammogram since I'm under age 40. Till then, I'm going to try my best not to worry about it.

Obama Bags

2008-09-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

I usually don't like campaign merchandise but these Obama bags look durable and fashionable. Bags range from $12.00 to $38.00. The site sells bandanas too!

The Royle Family

2008-09-22T18:55:00.000-07:00

I'm obsessed with "The Royle Family," the BBC comedy which first aired in 1998. The show revolves around a working-class family living in the Manchester suburb of Wythenshawe. All the episodes (except one) takes place in the family's home and revolves around the upcoming wedding of daughter Denise to Dave (season one) and (in season two) the impending birth of Denise and Dave's baby. Most of the episodes have the lazy family sitting around the "telly" making banal conversation. The show would be really boring if it weren't for the great writing and great characters. And to boot, I've learned lots of british slang:

tea: evening meal
ta: thanks
pissed: drunk
squirty cream: whip cream
washing up: doing the dishes
gob: mouth

I've only seen two seasons because I can't get a hold of the third season. I don't think it has yet been released here in the U.S.
One warning though: there's lots of smoking, drinking, nose picking and farting so it can get kinda gross sometimes. Oh, and the awesome theme song is by Oasis!

Free Shipping!

2008-09-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

I've been really busy at my day job over the last two weeks on a project for Universal Pictures so I'm only now getting around to posting on my blog. I decided to celebrate the end of the arduous project by offering free shipping on items over $5.00 on my Etsy shop. Promotion ends on September 30.

Family Portraits

2008-09-04T21:59:00.000-07:00

Artist Kirk Demarais created these fabulous portraits of famous film families for the Crazy 4 Cult 2 show at Gallery 1988. Check out the exhibit or Artist's Blog to also see portraits of the Freelings (Poltergeist) and the Griswolds (National Lampoon's Vacation).

Man Knocked Unconscious By Ninja

2008-09-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

(The Associated Press)

VALENCIA - A 20-year-old man is in critical condition after he was struck by a roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia.

Park officials say the man lost his hat on a ride Saturday and climbed two security fences to retrieve it. That's when he was struck by the Ninja roller coaster and knocked unconscious.

He remained hospitalized Wednesday. No other details were provided about his injuries.

The roller coaster, which reaches speeds of 55 mph, was shut down until state inspectors determine whether the accident was related to the ride.

The man's name has not been released.

My Universe

2008-09-02T01:12:00.000-07:00

After a couple of years neglecting to see an optometrist, I finally decided that I needed to get my vision checked and possibly get some new driving/reading glasses. I searched Yelp and found Blackstone Optometry. They had the best ratings (22 five-stars as of today) and is located in the Los Feliz area. I wasn't expecting anything other than the usual "which looks clearer; one or two? How about three or four? " but Dr. Simon Cheng is the most patient and most thorough optometrist I've ever had. While there, they took a computer image of my eye (see above) that showed the universe that is my orb. Amazing! I think I'm going to blow up the image and frame it. Is that weird?

Watch out for this guy!

2008-08-30T16:27:00.000-07:00

I've had an idea for this doll for a while and even had him sketched out a while ago but I finally finished him today. It took me approximately 5 hours. I'm going to make another one like him except he'll be in tight Speedos and will be wearing a gold chain (double yuck!!). I'll post him on my Etsy site shortly.

Love makes you crazy drunk...

2008-08-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

Franticmeerkat makes the best cards! Sometimes I'll buy a card even if I have nobody to send it to. (I just have to have it!) Here's one of my favorites.

Topsy-Turvy

2008-08-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

Artist Matt Adrian has just opened an Etsy shop featuring his original artwork. I'm lucky enough to already own one of his paintings but now I really want this one too!

Magnets

2008-08-27T10:56:00.000-07:00

MinJae magnets are finally here! These 1" magnets have images of my most popular dolls and will be sold individually and in sets of threes (Ninja set & Plush set). I'll post them on my Etsy shop soon. A special thanks goes out to Bill for all his help!

Wallace models Dolce & Gabbana...

2008-08-26T11:40:00.000-07:00

Wallace and Gromet are in a new advertising campaign for the opening of a new Harvey Nichols Department Store in Bristol. Wallace is wearing a Dolce & Gabbana shirt and Alexander McQueen jacket. Click on the link to see other cute images including Lady Tottington in an Alexander McQueen dress and Christian Louboutin shoes!

Amy Winehouse

2008-08-25T15:42:00.000-07:00

It took me all weekend but I finally finished the Amy Winehouse doll I've been wanting to make. Lots of time was spent on the Internet looking at different images of Amy to make sure I get the details right. So, Amy has her signature hairdo, mole above her lips, "Blake" pin and girl tattoo on her right arm. I'll post Amy on my Etsy store shortly.

a Want, not a Need

2008-08-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

This Laura Dawson coat is so beautiful and looks really comfortable. I can't justify spending $355 on one item so I'll just have to ogle it from afar.

I want a dog so bad!

2008-08-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

A dog saves an abandoned baby! Read the article here.

MUJI Please!

2008-08-20T21:51:00.001-07:00

Jigsaw puzzle cookie cutters from Muji.

Muji is a Japanese store that sells everything from furniture to underwear. Everything in the store is clean, basic, functional and beautiful. If I could, I'd decorate my entire home with Muji items. I was lucky enough to visit the Muji stores in Tokyo and Paris where I purchased whatever I could carry in my luggage (pens, toothbrushes, tissue holder, razors, camera case, umbrella, etc.) There is a Muji store in Soho and MOMA carries some items but I'd really love a Muji store here in Los Angeles. In the meanwhile, you can order items online to get your Muji fix.

Commemorative Stamps

2008-08-19T15:46:00.000-07:00

I came across these artistamps on Twine Workshop's Etsy site. So clever.

Playtime for Iggy

2008-08-19T00:16:00.001-07:00

Here's Iggy playing with one of my handmade organic catnip toys.

Life is a cabaret...

2008-08-18T23:42:00.001-07:00

Karen calls this doll "Goth Liza Minnelli."

Witness to history!

2008-08-18T23:36:00.001-07:00

Hard work and dedication really does pay off. Congratulations Michael Phelps!

The Jelly Roll

2008-08-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

I'm currently hooked on the "Leave it to Beaver" series. Geeky, I know, but it reminds me of my childhood and gives me a warm and fuzzy feeling. I also like the fact that Wally and the Beaver are so well behaved. They ask to be excused from the dinner table, they say "yes, sir" and they wear suits to school dances. But that was a long, long time ago...

I came across an episode where Wally and the Beaver try out a new fad hairstyle called the "jelly roll," confirming that fads and trends always repeat.

The boy can bake!

2008-08-12T16:28:00.000-07:00

Mike made this very yummy peach/apple no-crust pie.

The Joker is Mine!

2008-08-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

My big sis presented me with Mincing Mockingbird's painting of Heath Ledger as the Joker! Little did she know that I have been eyeing the very same painting when Mincing Mockingbird first posted a picture of it in his blog. It's serendipity. Thanks sis!

Gone Retail

2008-08-05T13:26:00.000-07:00

Minjae dolls are now available at Wink SF in Noe Valley.

Mutual Appreciation

2008-07-31T21:23:00.000-07:00

I just learned that my catnip toys are being featured on JennyJen 42's blog. It's really humbling when a complete stranger likes your stuff and writes about it. Thanks Jenny! Check out Jenny's Etsy store everyone. She has some really cute stuff. I especially love her bags!

Why So Sad?

2008-07-28T22:13:00.000-07:00

This is a custom order bear I finished today.

Fanny Pack

2008-07-25T17:28:00.000-07:00

I've recently started hiking again and this fanny pack from Built by Wendy would be perfect for holding my keys, i.d. and pepper spray!

It's So Hard To Say Good-bye

2008-07-24T21:44:00.000-07:00

Selling an item is always exciting, but I have to admit that it's hard to part with items that I've spent time creating. Especially hard because each item is unique and can't be duplicated exactly. Here are a few of the items I've sold that are especially close to my heart.