Sisters, Sisters.

sisters, sisters.

Christiana Mattea and Carlynne Morrison.

We didn't always get along.

I'd yell at you when you sneaked into my room to steal my clothes.  

I swear you did it just to rile me up.

True?

I'd share my opinions when you dated guys I didn't approve of.

No, you didn't want to hear it.  

You know it was all out of love though, right?

You've always pushed the limits; 

and I tried to hold you back with fear that you might fall.  

That didn't seem to stop you.  

Instead, you pedaled even faster-

away and in the other direction.

My efforts weren't brought forth in a very gentle manner. 

In fact, they crashed into your strong will.  

Together they created thunder and tears.  

Our relationship bruised.

We learned.

Amidst the hurtful punches thrown and harsh words stabbed, we have always loved each other.  

Though our differences are many, our sisterhood bonds us with tighter force.  

As we've grown, I look at you and love you just the way you are.  

Your free spirit inspires me to leap into mid-air and take a risk-

to live without restriction.

In all reality, our diversities come together to create a more colorful existence. 

We intersect rather than parallel,

creating a spark-

energy.

Yep, Matthew, you brighten up my world.

I love you!

...

This collage of images was taken last November.  Due to the busyness of life, the photos haven't been posted until now.  Though the attire may be a bit dated for April (fur?), take note of bright colors blended with neutrals.  Also observe boyfriend-style denim, cropped tops, feather earrings, and chunky bracelets.  Wardrobe was inspired by the melding of our styles--Fashionable Female with Boarding Babe, Hip Hop with Hippie, etc.  Thank you to Kristina Krug and Ori Schnitzer for capturing this colorful, fun, and silly shoot.

My favorite of my sister's "song of the day" she blesses me with:

Take a listen as you browse.  I'd say it's a good soundtrack to this spread.

DANCE! (ok, now that's a trait sis and I both have in common)

"All kinds of weather, we stick together 
The same in the rain and sun 
Two different faces, but in tight places 
We think and we act as one"

-Irving Berlin

sisters, sisters.

Yellow: Fresh and Free

Pantone, Fashion and Interiors' most esteemed color expert, upholds the color "Beeswax" as one of the top 10 colors for this season.

Yoana Barschi demonstrates the brilliant trend of yellow this Spring of 2011.

So why all of this buzz about yellow?  As spring dawns, a season of warmth, color, and life sprouts into view.  Flirty and fresh sundresses, accessories, etc. paint a new look that aims to warm and heart and excite the senses.

My trip to Corvallis this week highlights nature's love for the same hue.  Not only did I get an eye-full of inspiration, I got my senses revitalized with the warmth of rekindled friendship.  One year ago, I met two wonderful women in London, and we traveled part of the world together.  13 months later a reunion was made, creating a bright spot in my year thus far.

yeah, we have fun!

...

At its most basic form, nature creates a beautiful pattern of artistic expression.   Dark clouds and frosty air are undressed to reveal a new season; as the sky slips on a skirt of warm rays and flower’s delicate petals dance in the light.  In the same way heavy wool jackets are unbuttoned and chunky scarves unwrapped to reveal a wardrobe of bright colors, chiffon fabrics, and intricate details.

Corvallis was a refreshing town of pure nature.  Allow me to create my own inspiration for some of Spring/Summer 2011's most buzz-worthy designers.  (Images also include my excursion to Bainbridge Island)

Picture of a flower taken on a hike with my girls

Bright yellow petals are elegantly gathered together in flower and grounded with a subtle green

DIOR

Back door junk makes a treasure of a picture in Bainbridge, WA

The color combinations of this scene create an effortless color palette--Moss brightens the life of an old black  awning, a dirty window subtly reflects the sun, while brick anchors the scene.

Etro

Trees and buildings downtown Seattle outside ferry entrance/exit

Bright yellow (infused with a neon green) brightens a drooping and drab scene--It adds organic excitement to the grey drizzling sky and geometric backdrop.

Proenza Shouler

A yellow home nestles within Corvalis' lush green land--creating 

a happy and refreshing statement of beautiful living 

in the simplest of terms.

On my drive home, I stumbled across a field of daffodils.

I am happy to have taken the time to smell them, 

for their scent was similar to that of a gardenia.

This image (part of an ad campaign for Marc by Marc Jacobs) is the epitome of loving life--hair in disarray, clad in color, and wearing a skirt made to spin and dance, this woman is ready to take on the warm weather in brilliant form.

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Want a simple way to create some buzz in your wardrobe?  Accessorize with a fresh nail color or bright bag for a pop of color.

And now I leave you with a happy statement to stick in the pocket of your yellow jacket:

A quote given to me on a birthday card from my sister makes a very valid point.

For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life. 

But here was always some obstacle in the way, 

something to be gotten through first, 

some unfinished business, 

time still to be served, 

or a debt to be paid. 

Then life would begin. 

At last it dawned on me that this was my life. 

This perspective has helped me to see that 

there is no way to happiness. 

Happiness is the way.

-Alfred D. Souza