bits of nonsense

baby

2011-07-22T12:04:00.005-04:00

It has been miserably hot in NY this week so why do I keep listening to music that makes me want to dance? So I can sweat more? I can't get enough of this remix right now so it looks like I will have to try to find a place with a/c to listen to this on repeat and not die from the heat.

i need to listen to this more so I'm forced to walk at a more leisurely pace so I won't melt.

--heidi

happiest of days

2011-05-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

"I'm so glad to grow older, to move away from those awful times"

Wishing this beautiful wonderful man the happiest of birthdays. xoxo

typography

2011-05-05T00:00:00.003-04:00

I've been immersed in typography for the last week and while my head is spinning with all the lovliness, this has to be my favourite by far. From my new favourite website welovetypography. I think I'll be spending a lot of time on this website (in the next few months especially).

take me back to the old house

2011-05-04T23:36:00.003-04:00

This song popped up in the itunes tonight. I'll always remember seeing this video on 120 Minutes when I was in junior high and loving it so much. I got the CASSETTE (yep, so old school) for Christmas along with Blur's Leisure and I was a very happy girl dancing around my bedroom.

--Katie

ch-ch-ch-changes

2011-04-16T02:05:00.000-04:00

I've been needing a big change for several years now. I haven't been happy with my job but didn't really know what else to do so I've just been stuck in a rut and miserable. Well, come April 18th I've got a BIG change starting up and I'm so excited!

I'm a believer in destiny and fate, as cheesy as it may sound. Too many things have happened in my life that were so lucky that they had to be fate. Anyway, I was coming home on the subway one night and noticed an ad for a graphic design course. I thought about it then promptly put it to the back of my mind. Then I saw the ad in another magazine and saw that there was an open house to check out the school at the end of February. I went, thinking it can't hurt to see what they have to offer, and I was really impressed with it but still a little hesitant to fully commit. This didn't stop me from talking about it with everyone I could and thinking about it A LOT. So I started to really consider it and was ready to put my deposit down but needed just a little bit more reassurance. When I heard they were having another presentation I took Heidi, and after hearing what they had to say again and talking with the instructors, I put down my deposit. I went to work that day and it was the happiest I've been there in years! Just knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel gives me a new focus. It's a 3 month course, Monday through Friday, from 8 to 5pm. I really like that it's short, but I'll learn what I need to know to get a job and start earning some money by September. I'm still going to be working nights and weekends at my current job to keep my insurance and have some money for rent and food but I KNOW I'm headed for a better future. YAY!

--Katie

St Patrick's Day

2011-03-18T08:36:00.002-04:00

Yesterday in NYC was CRAZY. At least in midtown where I work. It was such a lovely day out, a coworker and I decided to take a walk for lunch not realizing the mayhem we would encounter. When did this holiday become an excuse for drunken teenagers to run around and act like maniacs? The "adults" weren't much better either. The Vegas strip on New Years Eve night is more composed. After work I went to the grocery store and hummed along to my two new favourite subway/walking songs and ignored all the nutters. Yay headphones!

and

--Katie

happy birthday mum!

2011-02-24T15:14:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday to our dear sweet mum. We love how you have embraced texting. The best one that still makes us laugh to this day is "funzies". Hope you are having a fantastic day in the sun!

We love you more than all the potatoes in idaho. xoxo

cake via i am baker

doncamatic

2010-12-17T13:41:00.001-05:00

This song is my latest obsession. I can listen to it over and over for hours and not get tired of it. So far Gorillaz have just released it as a single but here's hoping there is more of this to come.

--heidi

my whole heart for my whole life

2010-10-02T10:24:00.000-04:00

Eighteen years with you well, I wouldn't say no.

let me go home

2010-08-04T12:48:00.000-04:00

We haven't been home to Idaho for a year and we are very homesick. It's time to go for a visit!

we have band

2010-07-27T00:07:00.001-04:00

We Have Band are from London and so, so good! They are just what I need on the subway or walking around NY. These are two of my favourites from their album.

--Katie

palm springs

2010-07-19T10:08:00.001-04:00

Back in March we went to Palm Spring to spend a long weekend with our parents and Denise. We weren't able to go home for Christmas so this was our get together instead since we hadn't seen the family in over six months. When my mum asked where we would like to meet up we picked Palm Spring since we haven't ever really had a chance to explore it properly. We have gone to the Coachella festival for 7 years but it's different when you're there for a festival and spend your whole time in a polo field watching bands for 2 or 3 days. We flew into Long Beach (strangest airport ever, but also kinda cool) and drove to Palm Springs with Denise. Our car rental had satellite radio! Woooohoooo! Such a little thing but the difference it made was great.

We spent our time with the family driving around looking at architecture (how they humor us), eating lots of asparagus, going to an outdoor market and to lots of thrift stores (my favourite advertised a "Divine Fusions Fashion Show") and laughing a lot. We also took a tram ride up a canyon and it was wild. You go from 80 degree sunny weather to the top of the mountain where there is snow around a foot deep and it even started to snow while we were up there. People were decked out in snow gear and sleds ready to take a trail and have some fun.

We also went to a date farm and watched an educational film while we had date shakes. We'd never had a date before but our mum swore they were delicious so we tried them. They are so good! We didn't realize they were so sweet like candy. We hauled a bunch back to NY to nibble on for a few months.

We had to go check out the Ace Hotel while we were there. Great cheeky design.

franklin for short

2010-07-14T08:00:00.002-04:00

Last month we saw Kings of Convenience at Warsaw in Brooklyn. It's no secret we love Erland and Erik so any chance we get we go to see them. That night we were introduced to Franklin For Short. They were fantastic! It made us even more homesick for Idaho listening to them. Something about their sound makes us think of home. After the show we met them and found out they are from Ventura, CA. So close enough to the home state. They are really nice and humble guys who deserve a listen. You will become hooked instantly like we were. Their albums have become our summer soundtrack.

Brother Bird is a favourite!

idaho on my mind

2010-07-03T23:36:00.001-04:00

We are counting down the weeks until we get to go home and see the family and our favourite mountains!

We will always be Idaho girls at heart.

banksy

2010-06-21T12:23:00.003-04:00

A while ago we went to see the Banksy film Exit Through the Gift Shop. We love street art so we knew we would love this film. It was fantastic! Great music, funny and really makes you think about what is art. By far Banksy is one of the most talented street artists out there. This is a must see.

our dearest love

2010-05-22T08:00:00.003-04:00

"Unfortunately nothing else ever in your life will affect you like music did in your early teens, and it puts you on a certain course. It’s like a love affair. It widens your taste and it broadens your view on everything. It saves you." - Morrissey in i-D, 2004

Happy Birthday to our dearest love! Another year has passed and he still brings so much joy and happiness into our lives. The happiest days are when we get to see those beautiful blue eyes smiling back at us, singing his words that have shaped who we are. We can never tell him thank you enough to make up for all that he has done for us. We love you from the heart of our bottom always and forever.

happy belated birthday denise!

2010-05-20T11:41:00.005-04:00

This year we were a bit forgetful and did not post a birthday greeting to our dear sister Denise. The day of her birthday we had a friend in town and were working the merch table at a gig at The Bowery Ballroom. It was a long day but we did call her to wish her a happy birthday.

This past weekend Denise came to visit for the weekend and we had so much fun laughing, walking her all over the city and taking a special day trip out of the city. Denise took care of us all weekend buying us food and getting us a few essentials for the summer. She is,as always, the best sister two girls could ask for. Thank You for all that you do for us Denise!

happy earth day

2010-04-22T10:18:00.004-04:00

Having been vegetarians for over 17 years we have done our part to help the environment in addition to recycling, using public transportation and buying local as much as we can. We know it's hard for some people to give up meat, but by just eating vegetarian one day a week you can make a difference.

There is a new restaurant that has opened in New York that we are very excited about because it combines a veggie diet with being green. Otarian is going to become our new go-to place when ever we eat out. So excited to have this new place to go!

i change shapes

2010-03-27T09:45:00.001-04:00

I'm totally obsessed with this version of this song. I just can't get enough!

--Katie

yes, we look exactly alike

2010-03-21T12:20:00.008-04:00

I haven't really been in the mood to contribute to this little blog that maybe 20 people read, but I'm going to be better about this and even try to write something everyday!

So, to start I have a twin story that happened a few weeks ago. Some find it amusing so here it is for you to decide.

Here is some background info first. Heidi and I are really into music and we really love to go gigs as often as possible and we have no problems with traveling to see a band (The Man mostly, but others too). Well, back in February a band I'm totally into was doing a tour of the US and we decided to do a weekend of three shows starting in NYC, then to Philadelphia, then to Washington DC. Three shows in three days may sound nuts to some but its what we like to do. Winter had been bringing us down and we needed this little pick me up. Since Heidi is a master at finding cheap travel deals, I left her to do all the planning while I enjoy her hard work and go along with it.

So, we were in Washington DC to see this band at the 9:30 club and here is the twin part to the story.

There weren't a lot of people outside when we got to the venue and I walked up to this girl (boring and conservative looking-not really relevant but it has to be said anyway) and this is how it went down:

Me: "Is this the line to go in?"

Her: "Who's playing tonight?" (Errrrr thanks for answering my question)

Me: "Band 1, Band 2, Band 3."

Her: "Oh, do they have bangs and glasses?"

A moment of silence since Heidi and I had no idea how to respond since we didn't know what she was talking about.

Heidi: " I don't know, since I don't know what you mean." She thinks a bit and says "Noooooo, no one in any of the bands wear glasses." And they were a bunch of guys, so no bangs either.

Her: "Oh, well I thought you were emulating someone in the band"

Heidi then gives this girl a death stare that only she can give and says rather firmly. "We are identical twins, we were born this way,I'm just being me."

Her: Stammering and backing up away from us since she knew she was an idiot and simpering "oh, I'm sorry I didn't mean to offend" repeatedly. Then she disappeared and we didn't see her again. I totally lost it and kept laughing over Heidi's "just being me" comment. I kept teasing Heidi about it and her look to the girl and how she must have thought we were going to kick her ass. Heidi can get pretty tough and NY on you when she needs to. She's protected me at many a gig when people have been rough on me. Not that I can't defend myself-I did palm a guy in the nose once who grabbed me inappropriately. We've decided to start a girls gang (like the Pink Ladies) called "Sweet and Vicious". So far it's just the two of us.

I guess if I'd thought about it a little bit more I would have picked up on her stupid question but I guess I was just a little annoyed that she wasn't answering my original question. And really our look isn't that unique-girls with bangs and nerd glasses are a dime a dozen in Brooklyn. We think we're different enough but I guess we could do something more about looking so much alike. Yet, neither of us really wants to change our styles so I guess we'll just have to put up with the constant staring, questions, and my favourite-when some people find out we are twins and say to us "god bless you". Um, thanks? I really don't have any special powers because I was born with someone else that looks just like me but that's sweet.

The final gig was great but I think Philly was my favourite since I spent a lot of time during the DC show feeling self conscious about being so bloody identical. While we were waiting for the final band to play I was tapped on the shoulder and a girl said she's seen us at all the shows. I think she thought we were "cute".

--Katie

happy birthday katie!

2010-03-19T06:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Katie! Forever my best friend. No matter what happens good or bad I always have my twin sister. Everyday someone notices that we are twins and they either stare at us, ask us to confirm their suspicions or just plain call out "TWIN"! As annoying as it can be sometimes I'm so thankful to be able to live in NY with you.

Happy Happy Birthday!!!!

how's it goin?

2010-03-17T22:33:00.003-04:00

To celebrate St.Patrick's Day we give you Bernie. The best Irish nurse you'll ever find....errrrr maybe not.

kordan

2010-03-16T15:57:00.002-04:00

This year for our birthday we are keeping it very casual. We are going to see our favourite Brooklyn band Kordan. Can't get enough of them!

joyeux anniversaire!

2010-02-24T14:00:00.001-05:00

It's our dear sweet mum's birthday today. Thank you a million times over for your love and patience.

We love love love you!!!

a true original

2010-02-11T20:55:00.008-05:00

We are shocked and saddened with the news of (Lee) Alexander McQueen's passing. He was a an amazingly talented designer that inspired and influenced so many. His designs were uniquely his own and he was a much needed bit of spice in the world of fashion. He will be greatly missed.

the king

2010-01-08T17:27:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday to the King of Rock n Roll!

Today he would have been 75. That voice, that hair, those hips..oh my! In memory of this special day please enjoy my favortie song by the King.

--heidi

'tis the season

2009-12-23T07:35:00.005-05:00

Happy Holidays from New York! We will be here for the first time for Christmas and New Years Eve. There was a big snow storm here last week so we will still get a white Christmas.

Favorite part of the holidays here as always is the tree vendors.

new york love

2009-12-10T21:12:00.003-05:00

I really can't help it since I hear it at least twice (sometimes seven) times a day. I really love this song. It gives me that NYC pride.

It will be two years in March for me and five years in January for Heidi since we moved here. Even though it can be rough sometimes, I do love NY.

-Katie

believe

2009-11-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

We are so bummed that we missed Eddie Izzard's documentary when it played in NY. But in our defense it was only here for a week-the week of CMJ. AAHHH the conflicts. Here's hoping that if we wish hard enough it will come back. Eddie is THE funniest comedian out there and as we are prone to do, we quote him often in our daily lives. His story is touching and makes you love him even more (as if that was possible).

kings of convenience

2009-10-18T15:25:00.002-04:00

Kings of Convenience played Bowery Ballroom on the 10th of September and we were fortunate enough to be there. This show was a HOT ticket!

When I first moved to New York they played two nights there. It was the first time I saw them and the first time I had ever been to the Bowery Ballroom. Both nights were fantastic. After the second night I met Erland (who I have a massive crush on) which made me love them even more. Erland is so charming and funny it's impossible not to like him. Plus he is a very talented musician and songwriter. swoon!

This time Katie and I were able to go together along with a friend of hers from work. The show was so magical-it was just the two them with their acoustic guitars (just like last time).

The crowd was so quiet, taking it all in. They played a lot of their news songs from the new album Declaration of Dependence. (it is released on October 20--we highly recommend everyone run out and BUY it!! You won't regret it) At one point you could hear a professional camera snapping pictures which when it's oh-so quiet it can be a bit distracting. After the song was finished Erland said "Dear professional photographer, please refrain from taking pictures." Then Erik offered to pose for a few photos so they could get their shots and be quiet. The poses that they gave were perfect "musician" stances, with a bit of tongue in cheek to them of course. They also did a cover of "It's My Party" and moved into their classics.

The encore was so fantastic. They came out and stood at the edge of the stage and just sang out to the audience without their guitars a favorite of ours "The Build Up" and near the end of the song when Feist joins in we all were wondering if she was there when from above us on the balcony she started singing and everyone freaked out a bit. It was so beautiful and raw.

Found this video of the encore on youtube. It was a fantastic way to end the evening.

chesterfield

2009-10-15T21:35:00.002-04:00

I've been thinking of what furniture I want on my must have list. No place for it to go but I am always thinking of what I would like to get for that "someday" when I have my own home and more money to splurge with. I have always wanted a chesterfield sofa, I love grey so chances are very good that when I am able to get my Chesterfield it will be in a soft luxurious grey felt to snuggle up on and take long naps.

--heidi

under the influence

2009-10-02T08:00:00.002-04:00

"I play the game of favourites now."

we are the people

2009-09-25T10:42:00.009-04:00

We've been busy with lots of visitors lately and then working and going to some amazing gigs, so no time for updates, but I wanted to share some new things that I can't stop listening to lately.

First a duo called Empire Of The Sun who sound a little bit like MGMT . They have some great videos but the one I really like has the embedding disabled so just go here instead. Here's a YouTube post for another of their songs.

I'm also loving this song by Telepathe.

I'll be dancing all over work tonight with these on my ipod.

--Katie

j'taime phoenix

2009-08-24T08:00:00.002-04:00

If you ever feel the need to dancity dance we highly recommend Phoenix. The new album is truly addictive from start to finish. It is the soundtrack to our summer.

marimekko love

2009-08-21T11:33:00.011-04:00

I am a a textile junkie and when it comes comes to Marimekko I am on a textile high. I could stare and plot ways to use their fabrics for hours. The new fall line is killing me. I want. I need. Now who wants to help a girl out and give her the funds to feed this addiction?

Plus some of my all-time favorites...

and the most classic of all Unikko. Love it in every colorway there is.

The clothes this season are to die for. The fall lines always kill me.

--heidi

redfish here we come

2009-08-06T08:00:00.004-04:00

It's our favorite time of year. The annual family trip to Redfish Lake outside Stanley, Idaho. We love living in a big city where there is always something going on but it's always nice to go home and see the mountains and spend some time with our family (haven't seen them since Christmas). This summer we've been looking forward to this trip even more than usual it seems with us gathering "Redfish type" music for a playlist on the ipod.

Back in a few weeks!

reach out and touch faith

2009-08-04T00:35:00.005-04:00

We have been trying for the last few weeks to get tickets for Depeche Mode in NY. Shouldn't be hard but when you have a very small amount of money to spend it is tricky. By the the night of the show (last night) we still didn't have anything but we figured if we went maybe we could find something cheap from someone who just wanted to make some of their money back instead of loosing out on all of it. We weren't even going to be picky about the seats, we just wanted to go. It got down to 15 to 10 minutes before the show and by then all the touts knew that we were not interested in buying from them.

We finally started to accept defeat when we saw a lady who looked like she maybe had some spares to sell so we were about to go ask her when one of the nicer touts that we had spoken to earlier started calling out "where are those two girls, give 'em to them!" He had asked her if she was selling and she was, or so we thought...she then gave us the tickets for free! We offered to pay her what little money we could afford to pay but she insisted we take them. We rushed in with BIG smiles on our faces to find our seats and right when we got to them Depeche Mode came out.

It was fantastic to see them live again and sing and dance to all our old favorites and hear some of their new songs live. As always the visuals were incredible, really adding to the entire experience. Dave was in fine form doing all our favorite moves, Martin looked great in a silver suit and Fletch was so charming as always. It was worth all the stress that we went through to get there.

"Never Let Me Down Again" is one of our favorites live. When Dave has us all put our arms in the air and you look out and see the crowd it's magical. The best part of the show! Below is a clip from Berlin this year. Wonderful.

If you have never seen Depeche Mode 101, you must! Our sweet mother who indulged all our musical obsessions got it for us when we turned 15. We must have watched it every afternoon for months. It is a classic that we still quote to this day.

The video of "Enjoy the Silence" reminds us of our junior high and high school days when we would watch 120 mintues. ahhh....good times

happy birthday dad!

2009-08-01T07:47:00.007-04:00

Happy Birthday to our daddy-o! Even though he's not feeling so hot with a cold this weekend, we sure hope our dad had a great birthday.

Great things about our dad....He makes yummy waffles and pancakes and he makes the best egg sandwiches. He used to take us, when we were little, out for a nice long drive on Sunday afternoon. He likes to prank his friends at the pool-they love it. Every Sunday night when we were younger it was a given that he would pop popcorn and we would get out the ice cream and licorice then watch the made for TV Sunday night movie. He's always willing to drive 2 1/2 hours to pick us up at the airport just to turn right around again to Idaho from Salt Lake even though we've insisted we can take the shuttle. He must really want to see us. We love our dad!

bored to death

2009-07-27T13:07:00.002-04:00

Could this show be any more perfect for us? Jason Schwartzman. Zach Galifianakis. Kristen Wiig. Parker Posey. Brooklyn. Mystery. Amateur Detective.

We think not. Can't wait til September!

"i'm not 50, i'm actually 40-10 "

2009-07-20T09:30:00.008-04:00

Since we are such the international jet setters we were off to an extended weekend in England just 10 days after getting back from Scotland. Only one thing would make us go back so quickly-The Man's 50th birthday gig at the Apollo Theater. Those that know us have heard us talk for years about him and what an important part he is in our lives, so need we say more about why we rushed back to the UK for this glorious event.

We flew Virgin Atlantic this time and it was not even close to the flights to/from Scotland. Very cozy indeed and again the meals had soggy lumps of spinach in them. Why? Why? Why? Fresh uncooked spinach-yes, cooked spinach-gag inducing. This was a cattle car type situation with six people across and our seats were so uncomfortable barely any sleep was to be had on this red eye flight but there was a great interview on the TV/Radio with the Blur boys so that was good at least.

We flew into London and then took the Megabus (which was way more comfortable than our flight) up to Manchester getting in to the city around early evening. We stayed at a hostel with friends of ours who were also in town for the big event. The hostel was in a great central location just blocks from the city center so we were able to get around without any problems and it was certainly one of the better ones we've stayed in over the years. The only downside was at night the streets were full of drunken lads and ladettes and they are very loud, breaking bottles on buildings etc. We were in the corner room on the top floor so we would get all the noise from both sides, but somehow we manged to fall asleep through it all. It really wasn't bad-does it sound like we hated it? It was really a very nice place and neighborhood (Katie did watch a guy getting arrested our first night there but even that was pretty tame).

Our hostel (party central)

Our first night we walked around to see how much things had changed since we had last been in Manchester 10 years before (then to pay respect for The Man's 40th birthday). Once again, we were surprised by how much we remembered of the city as we had in Edinburgh. After walking around for awhile we ended up at a Thai restaurant for dinner. Not bad, but our server was a bit strange and ended up laughing and leaning in on Katie's shoulder. She was saying something about the couple seated behind us to her but it was extremely hard to understand what she was saying through her fits of giggles, we just pretended to understand and then high tailed it out of there. Next stop was a supermarket for some treats, ie: our daily dose of Malteasers. We eat them constantly every time we are in the UK. Can you blame us really, they are the best treat.

When we got back to our hostel Heidi mentioned her ankles were swollen, her right arm was tingly and she was having mild chest pains. We got on the Internet to investigate what it could be, figuring it was probably from all the travel, and that's what it seemed to be. We decided on a wait and see approach and crashed in our room from exhaustion.

The next morning Heidi woke up early with severe chest pains and was worried that it would get worse. This was the big day that we had traveled so far for, nothing could get in our way of celebrating that night with The Man. So to be on the safe side we ended up going to the infirmary to have Heidi checked out. Fortunately, we got there early enough and it wasn't busy, the rush from the night before had just cleared out before we got there. Everyone was so kind, they took very good care of Heidi and did an excellent job of checking her out. The best part of the whole experience...it was free! Thank goodness for universal health care, especially since Heidi doesn't have any insurance. Just another plus in the pro list of living in the UK.

After the unexpected detour in the morning we got ready to go over to the venue and when we got there the excitement of seeing HIM kicked in. It had been almost two years since our last gig so we were READY. We were able to catch up with lots of old friends and made a few new friends while we there. Even though we had just seen them, it was great to see Maggie and Vikki again and share in all the excitement. (We would never have met them if it wasn't for The Man so we have him to thank for our friendship.) There were many people from all over the world who had traveled for this special event. The first in line was a chap who came from Mexico City, he arrived the day before and just came straight to the venue from the airport.

As the time grew closer for the doors to open we started to get anxious so we peaked inside to see what was happening and saw a banner that made us a bit teary eyed. Just to really bring the point home in case it wasn't obvious by now-we have loved this man with all of our hearts for over half our lives and such an event meant so much to us, we weren't taking it for granted that we were lucky enough to be there for something so very special. There was an electric energy in the air and everyone was excited and so happy to be there to celebrate HIM. It's nice to be surrounded by people who KNOW and UNDERSTAND.

Truer words were never spoken.

A half hour before doors opened the staff of the venue came out to give everyone special laminates for the gig. We grabbed a few just so we would have back-up in case something happened to them during the show. Holding these precious gifts made us teary once again.

The setlist-he didn't really sing that song for the encore (it's a joke) he sang First of the Gang.

The show was amazing and there were so many great moments. The crowd went mental, singing along with all our hearts to "the songs that saved our lives". Heavenly! Here is a clip from YouTube of the crowd singing Happy Birthday. The sign that he holds up was made by our dear friend Vivian. Yea! The sound is a bit dodgy and it's a bit wobbly but you'll get the idea.

On Saturday this man was our source of entertainment while in the queue. By 9:00 am he was well on his was to being drunk for the day. He took it upon himself to chat all the girls up, sleep on every step so we had nowhere to sit, yell incoherently at everyone and then proceed to accidentally spill his beer all over the place. Right after Maggie took this picture for us he walked out into traffic and tried to get hit by all the passing cars. Then he tried to pee in the street, in which he did not succeed. We did get mooned one last time before he left us for the day. The collective groan from us said it all.

That night was yet another brilliant show and again we were just on a total high of happiness. Here is another clip from YouTube from Saturday the 23rd that someone from the balcony recorded. We love what he says about us saving his life-it's really the other way around but nice to have him say it as well.

The next day we went with Maggie around Manchester and revisited the places that are so special to us because they are all associated to HIM.

We lifted the lead off The Holy Name Church.

"A dreaded sunny day, so I meet you at the cemetry gates"

"So we go inside and we gravely read the stones "

"...under the iron bridge we kissed, and although I ended up with sore lips"
The bridge had a lot of graffiti on it that once again made us teary. The love this man inspires is breathtaking.

384 Kings Road where he lived as a boy.

Salford Lads Club, a must in any pilgrimage to Manchester.

The sight of the first ever gig. October 4, 1982 almost exactly 10 years before the first time we ever saw The Man live.

The hospital he was born at. We had the nicest taxi driver who was born and raised in Manchester. He said we were his most interesting fare of the day and seemed to have a lot of fun driving us around.

The G-Mex center (now known as Manchester Central) was home to some famous gigs.

MEN Arena where he played in 2004 for his 45th birthday. The first time he played Manchester in over 12 years. (click on the picture to see it better)

We also did a few other touristy things that weekend. We walked around with Maggie shopping and admiring all the beautiful architecture. The most surprising sight was the public urinals in the city center. Better than a dumpster which is a very popular choice in NY.

We love libraries and the city library here is one of our favourites.

Dale Street...just for you dad. Vinyl Exchange is a well known record shop, we could spend a lot of time there for sure.

She's knicking his wallet! The cheek.

This mural was right outside our hostel. What a sight each morning when we went out.

It was a fantastic weekend filled with celebrations, laughter and so much love for The Man.

och aye land part 3

2009-07-13T08:12:00.005-04:00

The rest of our time in Scotland was spent in Glasgow. We went to The Lighthouse with Vikki one afternoon and checked out their current exhibit on the architecture of John Lautner. It was fantastic, filled with with models and construction documents. The drawings were all done by hand so heidi was in heaven looking everything over.

We climbed to the top of The Lighthouse to see the amazing view of the city. We got quite the workout on those stairs but it was worth it (stairs, schmairs).

This is a sign for the toilets that we thought was sooo funny.

After The Lighthouse we walked around Glasgow and had a look around. We could so live here (definite possibility-sorry mum).

Before we went to pick up Maggie for dinner Vikki took us on an impromptu tour of some Glasgow sights. Once more a lot of our photos were taken from the car since it was raining.

Makes us hungry for chips n' curry.

The famous Barrowlands where many great bands have played.

Stow College where Belle and Sebastian got their start.

Growing up in Idaho we would see horses or cows being transported on the roads, here it's sheep..baaaaaa

In most neighborhoods of Glasgow they say...

After our tour around Glasgow with Tour Guide Vikki we went out to dinner at an Italian Tapas Restaurant with Maggie, Vikki and Maddy and closed the place dooowwwwn. After dinner we went over to Maddy's flat to visit her doggies. Skeeter, Sweetums and Shannon were all in a playful mood and seemed to remember us from our time spent with them in December.

One of our last days in Glasgow was rainy and then the sun came out so while it rained we went to Habitat with Maggie and spent a long time looking everything over. Then the sun came out and we met up with Vikki and we all had lunch at a great vegetarian cafe and had a wander around. The girls took us by a great vintage shop where we picked up some vintage silk scarves. We love scarves so we really hit the jackpot there.

Heidi is really into this play's poster's scattered all over Glasgow and now we have one in our flat.

Did you know that pedestrians look like aliens in Glasgow... so beware of them OK.

This is the view from the girls flat. We loved their flat and we would love to live across the hall from them.

Our other hosts while in Glasgow were Sandy...

and Marsalis

As a final treat on our last night we tried fried Mars bars and they are heavenly!

We were sad to leave Scotland but since we knew we would be coming back in less than two weeks to go to Manchester it wasn't quite as depressing as it could have been. We are very lucky to have met Maggie and Vikki on our trip to England in 2006. This was the best trip with lots of laughter, music, and good food (yes, the Brits have a bit of a reputation for bland food but everything we had was great). We had a running joke that our trip was sponsored by Polo mints since we went through several rolls of them so, thanks Polo mints (better than water from a bucket!)

We've already got big plans for when Maggie and Vikki come to NYC at the end of August. Let the good times continue!!

passion pit

2009-07-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago we went to see the much hyped Passion Pit play at Bowery Ballroom. We have been addicted to the ep and the album so we were very excited to see them live. Once again we hit the jackpot with great opening bands. First was Body Language from Brooklyn (whoot!). So much energy and so much fun. Their visuals were very 70's retro but perfect for the set. They just released an ep, it will have to tide us over until they release a full album. Check out their song "Sandwiches", it's our favorite. Next was Bear Hands another Brooklyn band (whoot whoot!). Completely different sound, a bit edgier and raw. They remind us of Les Savy Fav. It was a great set and they got us geared up for the main event. Check out their song "Can't Stick 'em", we love it!

When Passion Pit came out everyone was ready to dancity dance. They were excited to be there and they got the crowd movin'. The set lasted about an hour, it may have been a short set but it was certainly packed with all our favorites. Can't wait to see them again in September when they open for Pheonix, now that will be a brilliant gig!

Check out their video for "Sleppyhead". So creative and different.

crocodiles kill

2009-07-09T22:00:00.003-04:00

After being on a bit of a downer yesterday here is another band I'm digging at the moment and I luvvvvvv this song. I can't wait to see them play with The Horrors in September AND October. Yay to going to gigs!

Crocodiles "I Wanna Kill"

--Katie

away we go

2009-07-08T23:14:00.009-04:00

We went to the film Away We Go a week ago and my new music find is Alexi Murdoch whose music was all over the film. I had one song from an OC soundtrack but now I've got his album Time Without Consequence and it's perfect for right now since I'm in a homesick, melancholy, ennui state of mind for the last month (June was the worst month this year). He's very mellow and it's what I need right now (it's been all about sad songs or angry punk on the ipod playlist). The film was also so good and I highly recommend it-it corresponds to a lot I've been dealing with lately (minus the pregnancy!).

Here is a live video of Orange Sky which is probably my favorite and is it just me or does he totally remind you of Nick Drake too?

--Katie

och aye land part 2

2009-07-06T20:30:00.002-04:00

The next few days after we returned from Belfast were spent going around to cities within an hour or two from Glasgow with Maggie. The Scottish countryside was so beautiful. Most of our pictures were taken from the car so we could stay dry.

We saw the Wallace monument outside Stirling (didn't manage to get a picture of it) and also saw the castle in Stirling. We explored the city a bit and had lunch while we there. We had baked potatoes at a vegetarian cafe. It tasted more like squash, nothing compares to good old Idaho potatoes.

One day we drove towards Perth and Dundee and admired all the wonderful architecture. On our way there we finally saw a highland cow, which we were so excited about but we were on the motorway and zipped by too fast to get a picture. There was a lot of road work going on and we couldn't help but love the sign in case your car broke down.

As usual we received a lot of questions about us being twins so when we saw this cafe we felt we would fit right in.

This had to be one of the funniest signs we saw while we were in Scotland. We want to know what happens at a cat show, do the cats roll over and purr?

och aye land part 1

2009-06-15T08:00:00.005-04:00

Our trip to Scotland was non stop laughter. We had so much fun with our friends we are now plotting our next trip back to Glasgow (next year perhaps).

This was the best flight we have ever taken to Europe because we sat in Business Elite! We couldn't believe it when we boarded the plane-our seats were like recliners and they pampered us big time. One question though-why do people think that if you're vegetarian you like soggy lumps of spinach? Blech!

We flew into Edinburgh with plans of exploring the city for the day before we went on to Glasgow to stay with our friends Maggie and Vikki. Since we only had less than a day to get any sights in we did a cliched tourist thing and did a bus tour.

It's really the best way to see a lot in a time crunch but while we were on the tour (almost all the way through) Katie decided she had to have a nap if she was going to be able to continue on for the rest of the day. Not really having a place to go we just went to the park, sat on a bench and slept for an hour in the sun and woke up to some man taking our picture. Not sure why he did that since we weren't the only people in the park taking a wee nap on the benches. It was mid-day and there were a lot of people out enjoying the nice weather.

Next stop was a museum to get some culture in before lunch. After that we headed to one of our favorite markets for food... Marks and Spencer. Yummy sandwiches, wish they had such good veggie choices in New York.

On the bus tour once again we spotted the place that we had jacket potatoes at 10 years earlier. It was amazing how much we remembered of the city.

We then decided to explore on foot and after walking all over Edinburgh we took a bus to Glasgow. We spent the rest of the evening into the early morning eating and catching up with our friends and laughing. While Maggie went to work the next day, we slept in so we would have energy for our travels to Northern Ireland. Since our ferry didn't leave until that evening we explored the girls neighborhood until we left-there is a flat for rent just two doors down that we would love to have-sigh. While out and about we found Boots straightaway, so it was a successful search of the 'hood.

Once we were off to Northern Ireland it really felt like the vacation had begun. Just four girls in a Mini Cooper driving to Troon to take the ferry to Belfast. Can you say trouble....yes indeed. The ferry was nice and relaxing and we had an incredible view of the sunset.

Our ferry landed in a little village called Larne which was a bit deserted at 11:30 pm. We drove to Maggie's hometown (an hour past Belfast) where we stayed at a very nice bed and breakfast. It was a lovely little village with very friendly people. Especially our hosts at the B&B who Maggie had been texting to let them know we would be late arrivals. We only had the name of the wife-Rita and by 1 am when we just couldn't find the place we called and talked to Rita's husband who came out of his warm home to help us out. We never got his name so he ended up being called Mr. Rita (not to his face obviously). We had more interaction with him that the actual Rita and we started to wonder if she existed.

The next few days were spent in Belfast. Our favorite story from Belfast was when we arrived, again at 1 am-we're never ones for getting anywhere at a respectable hour. It seems like we are always getting to our destinations around 1 0r 2 in the morning. We were going to stay at a hostel and had a bit of a difficultly trying to find it (surprise) when Katie woke up from the backseat to hear Maggie and Vikki arguing over where the hostel could be and saved the day by saying "I'm not sure if this means anything but there is a sign right there that says hostel". It was pointing down a side street where our hostel was located. Vikki was already unsure about the area we were staying in, she thought it wasn't safe enough, and we had to agree once we went to get our room and the guy at the desk was a bit dodgy. Then we saw a pub close to where we were supposed to stay and that was really the end for her. Vikki cried out "There's a man....in a cage!" There was a mean looking guy standing in this cage, smoking and guarding the pub entrance. We weren't quite as freaked since NY has made us a little impervious to such things but it was interesting. We were laughing so hard at Vikki (done out of love) that we forgot to take a picture of it. This photo was found via flickr. After some research we found out that they had had some shootings in the past, hence the reason for the intense security. So instead we ended up totally lucking out and stayed at a house in the university area of the city which was really close to a yummy restaurant where we had brilliant Indian food.

While we were in Belfast we took the bus tour. This is the Europa Hotel, the most bombed hotel in the world.

Parliament was far from the city center but was surrounded by beautiful grounds.

The tour was very interesting but frightening to think of how much the city has been through. Even though there had been "peace" for several years just hearing about the conflicts between the Catholic Republican or Protestant Loyalists was enough to make anyone a little uncomfortable.

After our bus tour we drove to Larne to catch the ferry back to Scotland.

This ride back wasn't quite as smooth and the rocking made us a bit green around the edges (Mamma Mia playing also didn't help) but we manged not to toss any cookies and picked up some new slang on our drive to Tescos for dinner ingredients. "Neds"-we got a little too into this term and were calling everyone a Ned for awhile. Rather than explain what a Ned is go here instead-lovely pictures of their breed-also known as Chav's in England.

Tescos was heavenly and we had too much fun looking at all the options. The place was HUGE! If only we had a grocery store like that in our little patch of Brooklyn.

So, part one is complete and we will certainly be quicker with the rest.

doll and the kicks

2009-06-13T12:15:00.001-04:00

While in Manchester we had the chance to see Doll and the Kicks. We like them a lot, please check them out.

it breaks my heart

2009-06-02T12:15:00.004-04:00

I love this picture. I'm not positive where it came from but I'm guessing here. If I were better at crafty things I would make one of my very own.

--Katie

we've come to wish you a happy birthday

2009-05-22T05:02:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday to "The Man " Today he is celebrating the milestone of 50 and we are so happy to celebrate with him in his hometown of Manchester. We originally didn't think we would be able to go but we're so glad we did. He has been such a large part of our lives for the last 16 1/2 years how could we not say thank you and be there with him.

"For everybody there is an artist that captures you just at the right time, and you never let them go, and they can never disappoint you." Yes, so true.

manchester...so much to answer for

2009-05-20T15:30:00.000-04:00

We have been back from Scotland for just ten days and now we are off again. This time we are going for a long weekend to Manchester, England to celebrate a very important birthday. We just couldn't miss this glorious event.

Soon we'll have lots of pictures from both Scotland and Manchester-once we've recovered.

aye...scotland

2009-04-28T08:00:00.007-04:00

Today we are off for a fun filled trip to visit dear friends in Glasgow. It has been ten years since the first time we have been there so we're sure the city has changed a lot since then. Last time we were there the city was alive with a lot of new design projects so it will be great to see all the new architecture. The music scene is also thriving again there so we should have lots of fun checking out some local bands. We are also going to take a quick trip on the ferry to Northern Ireland and visit the hometown of one of our friends and then on to Belfast.

We promise we'll take lots of pictures to post once we return.

fischerspooner

2009-04-24T10:52:00.007-04:00

Last night we went to the first of three open rehearsals Fischerspooner was holding at The Performing Garage in Soho. Each rehearsal holds 60 people so it was very intimate. It was BRILLIANT!! The new direction that they are moving in is so incredible. Their creativity is beyond words, each time we see them we are in complete awe.

If they are coming to a city near you, you must go. We promise you will be so glad you went.

reduce, reuse, recycle

2009-04-22T06:52:00.003-04:00

Happy Earth Day! This day always gives me hope that we are all on the right path to taking care of our planet. With the green movement becoming so in vouge there is a chance that our earth will start to heal from all the terrible things we have done to it. It all starts with simple daily life changes. There are many great books out there that can guide everyone on how they can make a difference. Some of my favorite are The Green Book and Living Green. Another great resource on how you can lead a more green life is Treehugger. Be kind to our planet today and everyday.

--heidi

top shopping

2009-04-16T11:55:00.008-04:00

We made the trip to the glorious Topshop. We managed to get there right before it got so crowded that a line formed to get inside. I want to know how they get to that point, knowing that they can't let in anyone else until someone comes out. Shopping in New York is always crowded and it didn't feel anymore cramped than any other store.

I have to say I was a bit disappointed. Nothing stood out as mind-blowing fantastic to me. Dare I even say it looked like stuff I could get for less at Urban Outfitters and Forever 21. Granted they are all similar in their own ways but I expected better from Topshop. The one item that stood out for us was a lovely scarf, but at $70 it wasn't happening.

We'll check it out often but until I win the lottery it will be a a total splurge for me to be able to buy anything there. I have rent to pay people.

--heidi

signs

2009-04-13T21:20:00.005-04:00

When we lived in Salt Lake our favorite time of year was Sundance. We would go to 14 or more films in a week in a half. So much fun but also exhausting. We always loved the shorts programs and would try to catch at least one per festival. I discovered this charming short film via the lovely blog Le Love. It is worth watching and I encourage all to get wrapped up in this story. At my old job I had a window seat, which was very rare-our studio was in the basement of the building. My view was of the Chinese lady in the apartment next door's laundy. I would have loved to just once looked up and out my window and saw someone who I could have shared signs with. Well, I guess I could have with the laundry lady but some how I don't think a sign that says "your bra just fell down into the window well" is as romantic.

--heidi

yogurt goodness

2009-04-13T12:02:00.004-04:00

While at our favorite Whole Foods on 2nd Ave the other night Katie and I saw this yogurt called Siggi's. The packaging alone made me want this yogurt. I love the type (aka font) they used and the nice clean design of their packaging. Plus the container itself was perfect. Then the fact that it is Icelandic just made me die a bit more. The design nerd in me was in heaven. Yes I tend to buy things based soley on their looks, hence the reason I am a bit of a design nerd.

--heidi

happy birthday denise!

2009-04-11T11:05:00.009-04:00

Denise is the best sister a girl could ask for. We have always adored her and looked up to her and when we were younger we wanted to be her. One of our favorite things to do was go through her shoes and play shoe store-she had the best shoes so we could play for hours. We also loved to watch her get ready and put on her makeup, so glamorous.

She has also instilled in us a love of Tom Selleck. We watched Magnum P.I. with her every week and all his movies. Our favorite being High Road to China (speeaak!). We still have a spot for him in our hearts.

Happy Birthday Denise!

huzzah

2009-04-03T12:45:00.005-04:00

The time has come dear people. Topshop is finally open!!! We have been so excited for this day and now that it is here we are going to wait til next week to see the glorious new store. Why? Because that place is going to be crazytown for the next few days and it would put us in crankytown. 'nuff said. Shopping is supposed to be fun not bootcamp. Details to follow once we have made the trip.

the courteeners

2009-03-31T12:22:00.002-04:00

We recently saw The Courteeners who hail from Manchester. Their set was fantastic! We were familiar with a few songs but hearing them live always makes a big difference. We were instantly hooked. The songs are strong and layered so each time you hear them something different comes out in the lyrics or the music. They also had family at the gig, it was so fun to watch their parents singing and cheering them on. They all looked so proud of their boys. Awww

Below is one of our favorites but we recommend checking out the entire album. It's quickly gone onto our most played this week.

happy birthday katie!

2009-03-19T07:00:00.001-04:00

Today is my sister and best friend Katie's birthday (and mine too). We have had so much fun this past year since she moved to New York. I laugh so much with her that my cheeks hurt all the time.

We are going to have a fun day celebrating by going to a special gig and spending time with dear friends.

Happy Birthday to my sweet sister!

--heidi

wot you lookin at?

2009-03-03T16:54:00.007-05:00

I discovered the work of Jodie Silsby today via Design* Sponge and it's brilliant. I love maps so her project made me very happy. Jodie is a recent graduate of University of Portsmouth. While there she created the Portsmouth vernacular map and was awarded membership for entry to the ISTD (International Society of Typographic Designers) student assessment scheme for it. It's a map of Portsmouth that lays out the streets with words that relate to the dialect and language of Portsmouth. Having actually gone to Portsmouth before it was fun to look at the layout of the map and see what was included on it. Katie and I went there in 2006 and we loved the city. It was so charming and the people were extremely friendly and helpful. We had the best cabbies there of any of the towns we went to on that visit. I think this might have to join our family of maps. Plus I love English slang so this is a good way to have a daily dose of it.

--heidi

happy birthday mum!

2009-02-24T10:30:00.001-05:00

Happy birthday to our dear sweet mum. We were called her "little bonuses" when we came along and she's been known to brag that we keep her young and hip.

We know we are biased but we really do have the best mum. She is always there to talk to...no matter what time it is. She always set a good example for us on how to treat others. She supports us in all our silly ideas and when ever we need help she is the first person we call.

One of our favorite stories (sorry mum had to tell this one) is when she took us to Dairy Queen in Pocatello for a treat. She wasn't close enough to the speaker at the drive through for the girl on the other end to hear her. Well, hilarity ensued and it ended with her roaring past the drive through window yelling "NEVER MIND". We were laughing so hard, we had tears rolling down our faces. She was not pleased at all with us but as the years have passed we'd like to think she now sees the humor in this story.

Another favorite is when we were on a family road trip in Oregon and when she came out of the restroom our dad had moved the car closer to the building but she didn't see us. She stood no less than 4 feet away from us looking for us with a puzzled look as to where we had disappeared to. We were in hysterics the whole time and when she finally noticed us she wasn't too pleased and flipped us off! This only made us laugh even harder.

Have a great birthday mum and don't get too tan out in the desert partying hard with all your friends.

*oh and thanks for putting up with all our crazy antics and for turning around to go back to get that really cool Barbie motor home we saw at a yard sale when we were little.

mystery jets

2009-02-23T09:41:00.004-05:00

We're glad that we're finally going to see Mystery Jets tomorrow night. We've been listening to them a lot as of late. This song is our current favorite and has been on a constant repeat. Edward Scissorhands is even in the band!

--heidi

start the love affair

2009-02-20T10:41:00.005-05:00

This song by The Bird & The Bee is so fabbity fab and since I totally dig Japan I love it even more for that. I've been listening to it a lot and I can't wait to see them play in a few weeks. I saw them perform on TV a few weeks ago and haven't stopped doing the back up girls dance since and by the way how great are their outfits?

--Katie

city living

2009-02-19T10:00:00.002-05:00

I thought I'd share a few of my favorite photos that I've taken while living in NY. I'm so full of inspiration every where I turn, sometimes I feel a bit overwhelmed by it all. Ahh...but I do love it.

This is the view from the roof of the Met. I love watching the sunset anywhere close to Central Park.

These photos are from my many wanderings in Brooklyn. Everything here has a special place in my heart. I love my borough.

The windows at Paul Smith last year were tres bon!

The hall leading to the cafe at PS 1. I adore those lights.

--heidi

happy valentines day

2009-02-14T13:16:00.005-05:00

Happy Valentines Day! We're sending love from Brooklyn to our family, friends and a special shout out to the spinsters club.

image via getty

friendly fires

2009-02-06T19:42:00.004-05:00

I am mesmerized by this video by Friendly Fires. This song/album/band are fabitty fab. Makes me want to dance all around my flat nonstop. I can't wait to see these guys in March with White Lies at the Bowery Ballroom.

--heidi

wildbirds & peacedrums

2009-02-05T12:55:00.001-05:00

We went to see Lykke Li again this week in Williamsburg. As always she was brilliant. That girl can dance, dance, dance. She did a cover of Kings Of Leon's "Knocked Up" that was so heartfelt. At one point she had her drummer on one side of the stage and the drummer for Wildbirds & Pecedrums on the other side of the stage drumming together. The sound was incredible and intense. Loved it!

We love to get to all gigs early enough for the opener because you never know what hidden gem you might discover. For Lykke Li it was Wildbirds & Peacedrums (from the lovely land of Sweeden) WOW is what we thought with the first song and by the end of their set we were hooked. Worth checking out live if you ever have the chance. Beautiful and very moving.

--heidi

mcqueen

2009-02-02T12:00:00.002-05:00

Today I finally got around to checking out Alexander McQueen's line for Target. I love his style so I was supper excited to see what goodies were in store for me come March. Errr, not as blown away as I had hoped to be. There are a few things that I like but will need closer inspection before I will fully commit to them. I used to look forward to each design collaboration at Target but lately they have all been a bit underwhelming.

I like the pattern to this dress and the draping.

A simple well tailored black blazer always makes my day.

I LOVE grey, so need I say more.? Styled with the blue booties and that killer vest this looks like it could be perfect for going out.

This dress looks fun for summer. I'm always on the look out for summer dresses since the humidity in New York makes me miserable every year.

This whole look was one of my favorites all around.

I really like the cut of this dress, and those blue booties are just too pretty.

--heidi

special order

2009-01-23T18:36:00.001-05:00

Everyday when I go to the subway I see this sign. Only in NY would this be a selling point at a bookstore.

--heidi

with my by myself

2009-01-23T18:26:00.005-05:00

This may be old news but we think this skit is one of the best from SNL and we can't stop singing it. Just today I was telling my mum about it so I thought I should share it so she can see how funny it really is.

--heidi

at last...

2009-01-20T22:18:00.003-05:00

...change has come and it feels so good. Watching the Inauguration today was so inspiring and will stick with us for quite some time. Congratulations Mr. President, you make us proud.

as duckie so wisely said "ain't it the truth"

2009-01-08T00:32:00.004-05:00

our best of 2008

2009-01-07T00:27:00.001-05:00

We were without internet for a few days, oh the horror! So our planned post of our favorite albums of 2008 did not come together until now. Our personal top albums of 2008 are below. 2-5 are in no particular order because we couldn't decide, they were all soooo good. But we were unanimous in our number 1 for 2008!!

#1 Cut Copy--In Ghost Colours
We listen to this all. the. time. We saw them live three times in 2008 and each time it got better and better. This album is a must have for anyone who likes to dancity dance (us).

Ra Ra Riot--The Rhumb Line
This album makes my heart happy in so many ways-Katie

Elbow--The Seldom Seen Kid

AMAZING! Well deserved winners of The Mercury Prize.

Lykee Li--Youth Novels
Another Swedish delight!

Glasvegas--Glasvegas
We have seen them three times now and we just adore their sound.

Our top singles of 2008 that were on constant repeat

*Santogold--LES Artistes
*Ladyhawke--Magic
*The Kills--Black Balloon
*Kings of Leon--Sex on Fire
*Estelle--American Boy (special shout out to Brooklyn-hey!)
*MGMT--Kids
*The Long Blondes--Century
*The Virgins--Rich Girls
*The Ting Tings--Great DJ
*Feist--How My Heart Behaves (this is from 2007 but received more attention this year,I'm obsessed with it--Katie)

happy holidays

2008-12-24T23:49:00.010-05:00

One of my favorite things about New York during the holidays is when all the tree vendors pop up on the sidewalks. It's so picturesque and fun to watch people selecting a tree and carrying it home. We were very tempted this year to get a wee tree for our flat but it just wasn't meant to be. I am going to make sure that next year we make it a priority. No more tree in a can for us! The lights in our 'hood were very small town main street. Brooklyn has such style and pzazz. As much as I love the holidays in New York it wouldn't feel like Christmas without going home to Idaho. The snow, our tree with all the ornaments that our mum has gotten us over the years, the treats that Denise makes, wrapping last minute presents on Christmas eve, going to a movie as a family on Christmas day, eating LOTS of great food, listening to Christmas music and singing along really loud, our tradition of organizing the presents under the tree just so. We are usually all so tired after everything but it's still so fun.

Have a great holiday with your family and friends!

--heidi

**picture is our family tree in Idaho-ho

afirmative

2008-12-17T19:15:00.001-05:00

I'm so excited for the second season of Flight of the Conchords. It doesn't start officially until January 18th but you can watch the first episode online here. This show makes me laugh over and over. It's set in New York and filmed here so we have a lot of New York pride when watching. Katie and I tend to break into the songs at random. "Robots" is the one I sing the most. Plus I have a bit of a crush on their manager Murray. He's so loveable in a pathetic way.

--heidi

she's so high

2008-12-13T19:28:00.011-05:00

Oh, man I am so very excited to know that, Blur-one of my favorite bands ever, has reunited and is playing London's Hyde Park in July 09. This is a pretty big deal since they haven't played together in eight years and I'm so sad I won't get to be there (must start buying Lotto tickets...). They are a band that has just gotten better and better over time and is continually experimenting and evolving with new sounds.

*Doesn't Graham still look so good? He's wearing the glasses-heart pounds.

I'll never forget getting a cassette (I'm so old) of Leisure for Christmas when I was 15 and being happy as pie listening to it non-stop along with a cassette of Saint Etienne's Foxbase Alpha-two of my favorite albums still. Back in the 90's when it was Blur vs Oasis I was definitely in the Blur camp and had a HUGE crush on Graham Coxon (I've always had a thing for the Brit musicians). Here's hoping they come to NY too.

My favorite song of theirs is Blue Jeans but since there isn't a video for that I'll post the video to She's So High which is what got me hooked in the fist place.

--Katie

london shop fronts

2008-12-09T16:58:00.006-05:00

I discovered a fantastic site today via Design Sponge. It is a site after my own heart. London Shop Fronts. It includes my love of signs, design and London, need I say more. It makes my heart so happy.

This is my favorite so far.

--heidi

i not dead

2008-12-06T11:14:00.003-05:00

Such an intense beginning to our day today! Around 7:30 this morning an incessant beeping woke me up. We have a railroad flat and it sounded like it was in the back (our bedroom is in the front) so I got up to see what it was. If you don't have a carbon monoxide detector-GET ONE! Ours was going off like crazy so I immediately opened the windows and called 311. I love NYC for 311 which is the number you can call for anything-yes ANYTHING. They connected me to 911 who connected me to the fire department who was at our door in less than 5 minutes. We had three giant firemen in our kitchen and clunking around through our flat with their axes and other pokey staff things (to bust/tear down a door). These guys were big and made our place look oh so tiny. They confirmed we did have carbon monoxide in our kitchen and proceeded to wake up the entire building to find the source (the boiler?) and to check the other flats. While all this went down we stayed in the hall and watched while we waited for clearance to go back into our flat. This ends very anti-climactic because after a while they just left and we had to call our super to see if we could go back inside our flat. Wow! I love our carbon monoxide detector-If I could I'd take it to dinner to thank it for making this years Christmas the best cuz we're not dead!

--Katie

**no pictures taken by us since we were in our jim jams and we had other things going on.

image via

do you really want to hurt me?

2008-12-04T12:05:00.003-05:00

Oh Topshop why are you doing this to us? We have been patient waiting for your grand arrival to the big apple and this is how you repay us. Haven't we suffered long enough without you in our lives everyday. You had better make this wait worth it or we're never speaking to you again (at least until you say you're sorry).

pulp

2008-12-03T11:45:00.007-05:00

We used to go out dancing a lot with our friend Dirk. Most of the time we would see this guy at the club who looked like Jarvis from Pulp. He danced like him, dressed like him, even had glasses like him. If a week went by and he wasn't there we would be so sad because he was so fun to watch. Not knowing his name we just called him Jarvis. Jarvis of Salt Lake City what ever happened to you?

Below is a classic song by Pulp. It doesn't quite capture the magic of the real Jarvis' dancing but it's our favorite.

--heidi

** AHEM! Heidi forgot an important part of the story in that we would joke that we wanted to go to the Jarvis school of dance because we loved SLC Jarvis' moves so much. One year for Christmas we even had a t-shirt made for Dirk that said "I graduated from the Jarvis School of Dance".

--Katie

thanks!

2008-11-27T16:31:00.001-05:00

Since it is a day of giving thanks I'm going to give thanks to my parents who instilled in me a love of travel. Growing up it seems like we would always take at least two trips every summer (one always being Redfish Lake) and we'd go places at other times of the year too. By the time I was 18 I had been to every state in the West along with Canada and Mexico and Hawaii which was pretty impressive since some/most kids my age had never been anywhere. So really it shouldn't be that surprising that I still have the wanderlust and I'm always wanting to go somewhere and do go whenever I can (it kills me when I'm on the subway and I see the ads for Iceland in only 5 hours at $799 for flight and hotel packages-I want to gooooooo!)

My favorite Thanksgivings were when we would go on a quick road trip, usually to CA but once to Phoenix-which were the last four that I lived at home ie: 9th-12th grade. Whoever came up with this brilliant plan (mum or dad or both?) cheers to you! The first time we took off for the holiday we went to San Francisco and had Thanksgiving at a Denny's in Santa Cruz. We had so much fun on that trip we went to San Francisco again the next year and Heidi and I still talk about the PETA protesters at Union Square over the disgusting fur coats women were wearing. Junior year we went to San Diego and we spent a lot of time trying to get to our hotel which we could see but couldn't get to because of the crazy roads and the freeway. Who can ever forget the Thanksgiving spent at Taco Bell at the Grand Canyon-classic.

Heidi and I loved these trips for the fun and adventure we got to have with our family and we usually got to go Christmas shopping and get some swell items. Especially in San Diego and Phoenix where we hit up the music stores and returned to ID with stacks of music. We were always on the hunt for anything that we couldn't get at home.

These trips were great to tide us over until spring break when we would hit the road again. With all the traveling we did when we were young it's in our blood to always be going somewhere and Heidi and I continue to get out and see the world while we can. Now we just need to go to Hong Kong, Praque, Stockholm, Tokyo, Brussels, Helsinki, Amsterdam, Bergen, Istanbul, Sydney, Luxembourg, Madrid, Copenhagen, Berlin, Munich, Sao Paolo, Buenos Aries, Cape Town, Moscow and everywhere else!

Thanks Mum and Dad for being such great parents and showing us that there is a world beyond the back yard.

--Katie

hairy situation

2008-11-26T08:00:00.001-05:00

Anyone you know need to hide from the mob or the government? I have the perfect disguise for you. People will be laughing so hard when they see you in this they won't be able to see the real you through their tears.

See even the other head forms at the store are laughing at these guys.

--heidi

the necklace

2008-11-24T15:43:00.004-05:00

Back in May I got this necklace at a design market-when I saw it I died and had to have it. It is the most amazing necklace and I love it. People ask me all the time what AGO stands for-it's just someone's initials as this is a combination of several vintage pieces reconfigured together. It's definitely an eye catcher and elicits gasps from all the girls at work and beyond.

I will be buried with this!

--Katie

does not offend at all

2008-11-24T14:39:00.004-05:00

I am not known for being a great housekeeper. I have to be highly motivated to tidy up. This song is my new motivation, I seem to have no problem getting started on cleaning up once this starts playing. This is the first song for my "clean up your flat" playlist on my ipod.

--heidi

a little story

2008-11-20T20:40:00.005-05:00

This story has made my whole week-it's that funny.

The other day at work I was having lunch in the break room with a couple of people when the funniest conversation occurred. Two of the guys who work in receiving (very strong and manly guys) were talking when all of the sudden Syed asked Javier if he had any baby pictures of himself. Javier was a bit confused and said no. Syed then asked Javier very seriously, "Would you like to exchange baby pictures?" I hadn't been paying much attention but that was the most random and funniest question I had ever heard I couldn't help but laugh for the rest of the day. Syed is a bit of a prankster so I knew even though he sounded serious he was just taking the piss out of Javier which made it all the more hysterical.

I think this will keep me laughing for a long time.

--Katie

designer art

2008-11-18T21:35:00.001-05:00

At the beginning of November we went to the Chanel Mobile Art exhibit in Central Park. It was what I needed after working 8 days in a row and I was ready for something to get me out of my work haze. I haven't stopped thinking or talking about this exhibit since we went-it was AMAZING and I loved every minute of it.

Basically it's a project to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the quilted Chanel bag (which I now suddenly kinda want one-oh they're good). So Karl Lagerfeld asked architect Zaha Hadid to create her interpretation of the inside a Chanel bag and then 11 other artists contributed works that were inspired by Chanel for the interior. It was free to attend but you had to have a ticket which we didn't know about and they were all gone months ago. We don't let that kind of thing get in our way as we are savvy in the ways of these kinds of events (sold out Sundance films are never sold out and I've only not gotten into a film once and I've been to a lot). We wait listed for two hours and got in easy peasy. Being fans of The Man we're used to waiting in lines and this was nothing compared to those lines.

So they let people in groups of about 30 at a time every 15 minutes and all of the workers were so nice and friendly. Even though you're in a small group they break it down even more to about two or three at a time for baggage check. After you check your bag and coat they sit you down on a bench and bring you a little headphones/MP3 player and tell you to wait for someone to come set it for you. Another person then comes over and sets it to the volume you prefer and explains that they are starting yours 10 seconds apart from each other for personal reflection. Then you wait for the narration to begin.

Okay, little did I know that the narrator is a voice I love, love, love. Her name is Jeanne Moreau and she has a deep, husky voice and I could listen to her talk all day (she is the narrator in the Drew Barrymore flick Ever After). There are various points throughout the structure and I'm not going to describe all of them-just my two favorites. A little way through you walk into a long narrow hallway where there is a bench to lean on. Across from you there is a wall that stops a foot from the floor and you can see a cobbled street with a puddle all along the hallway. It takes a minute for you eyes to adjust and THEN... I can hear in my headphones dripping water and I see the drips in the puddles but it keeps going and you see an upside down reflection of houses in Paris with little Chanel logos and there is the sound of talking and drapes opening/closing and you see little movements of life in the reflection. Then it goes from day to night while all this activity is going on. It was so beautiful to me I just wanted to stay in there all day but my narrator lady had us moving on.

My other favorite piece was at the end and we had to write out a wish and tie it to a tree. The point is to empty your "bag" and bare your soul. Then we went to the bag check and they give you a large magazine type catalog (a gift from Chanel) of the exhibit since photographs aren't allowed inside. Heidi and I left so refreshed and calm-almost like we'd been to a spa. It was such a brilliant experience and I was so sad it is temporary-it's moving on to London next. After we left the exhibit we walked through the park for awhile to enjoy the beautiful weather and just being in some nature for a change.

I've been struggling lately with being in NY and wondering what the hell I'm doing here but I'm back in the groove of loving it for opportunities like this where I get to experience something so magical that reminds me it's been worth it so far (my eight month mark was at the beginning of November-Yay!).

--Katie

P.S. I found this girls blog about this as well-check it out!

it's a sign

2008-11-17T21:35:00.017-05:00

Being the design junkie that I am I have a tendency to take pictures of signs that I find interesting. I also have silly sense of humor so some signs or notices that I spot will make me giggle for days. Here are a few of my favorites.

In 2006 we went to jolly old England to see THE MAN in his home country. Not only did we get to go on tour but we got to see this:

In Birmingham--I love the basic graphic design, so subtle.

In Kings Lynn--We got into town late and went wandering around for food. It had been a long day of travel so we were in crankytown. This made us laugh and made our night brighter.

In London--we stumbled upon this charming sign. I couldn't help but read it in a silly voice, with strong emphasis on the cheeeese. It is the oldest pub in London and was also in Miroslav Sasek's book This is London. Looks like we aren't the only ones who love it.

Potty humor, I see the funniest things in bathrooms all over.

In Oxford--this sign made me laugh so hard when I first saw it. We went to a department store to use the restroom. It made me wonder what had happened to prompt them to make a sign to remind people of such a basic thing.

This is from Parsons, bathroom graffiti is so much better at an art school.

We went to the Coney Island freak show labor day weekend with our sister Denise. We enjoyed the freak show but the bathroom had some classy entertainment.

Graffiti from Salt Lake City, inspiring reminder to...

vs. graffiti from Brooklyn, inspiring but in a different way

These signs are what really catch my eye

Last year when we were in Oakland for THE MAN we saw this and thought it very appropriate

Many New Yorkers can relate to this

There have been times late at night we have thought this very thing...

I wish I could have been there to see who did this one.

--heidi

magic is right!

2008-11-13T21:32:00.005-05:00

Since heidi wrote about her new favorite design site I thought I'd post my new favorite subway song. Damn, this song is so good!! I haven't turned into a true New Yorker yet in that I don't get down in the subway like other people but this could be the song to make me do it-until then I just walk fast and then dance at home. I'm not savy enough to just post an MP3 so here is the youtube clip.

Ladyhawke-Magic

By the way, I saw an older man (hep cat if you will) in the subway yesterday that I could tell was itching to boogie on down and then when he couldn't hold it in anymore he shimiied and twisted and head bobbed-it was amusing.

--Katie

the selby

2008-11-13T08:30:00.007-05:00

I love magazines about interior design with all their pretty photos of gorgous apartmaents and homes all over the world. But sometimes they feel too over styled and don't really show the personality of those who live there. I want to see how real creative people live because for me right now that is more inspiring than a pretty home that a designer has worked on.

One of my favorite new places to look for inspiration is The Selby. I'm sure the photos have been styled but not to the extent that a magazine would. Below are a few of my favorites.

Bill Gentle and Fanny Bostrom

Mary Randolf Carter

Cheri Messerli and David Rager

--heidi

eek

2008-11-13T07:17:00.011-05:00

This year for Halloween we went to the famous parade in the West Village. So far every year I've lived here I haven't gone but I'm glad I waited to go with Katie because it was much more fun with her than it would have been by myself.

We got there with enough time to get a good spot. Right across from the VIP section at the library. Thankfully that night wasn't as cold so we were ok sitting around waiting and waiting for the parade to start. In typical NY style the people next to us started to argue with the girls next to them. Space issues always bring out the worst in people in NY.

The best part of the parade was the begining. We really liked the ghost party. The ghosts where some of the best we've seen. Plus the wind helped make them look extra spooky.

As expected this year there were a lot of political costumes and soooo many people as the joker. We also saw a lot of girls dressed as a stove. Not sure why this costume was so popular but it was. We also saw a lot of people dressed as bananas.

The other great part of the parade was the Thriller group. There were two Michael Jackson's fighting for attention but the zombies were so brilliant! They had their dance worked out and all of their costumes were fantastic. It made us think of when we were in grade school, we would hear that song and get so scared.

Towards the end of the parade it was getting a bit boring because it was the same costumes over and over. Once we left we had the joy of trying to get to the subway along with two million other people (seriously, that's how many people went to the parade). On our way there we saw this creepy clown hanging out on a window ledge by Washington Sqaure. It wouldn't be Halloween without a creepy clown

--heidi

we love it! we love it!

2008-10-29T13:54:00.005-04:00

One of our families favorites films is Gotcha! Our parents did a good job picking that one out one weekend. It is a classic 80's film with so many great lines and killer music. Recently the show Chuck had a few references to Gotcha! Thus proving it is beloved by many.

This is the scene that makes us laugh the most. Guaranteed fit of giggles if you watch this with us.

makes me happy

2008-10-21T19:22:00.008-04:00

I'm so smitten with the work of Kat MacLeod. Her illustrations are so lovely and I just want to be one of those girls with their great outfits and fun hair.

I love the way she uses a mixture of different medias and even thought it's a flat image there is still a texturized quality to them that attracts me. They also remind me a bit of Egon Scheile (one of my favorite artists-especially "Sitting Woman with Legs Drawn Up"). Once upon a time I fancied myself to be an artist and if I were I'd want to be like Kat or painter Elizabeth Peyton who has an exhibit that just opened at The New Museum. I haven't gone yet but plans are being made for a night to get over there and drool for awhile. I'm such a girl-I really love simple and pretty pictures (yet I also love the dark work of Francis Bacon and Lucien Frued hmmmm...).

--Katie

bunneymen never stop

2008-10-20T11:50:00.006-04:00

This morning we were reminiscing about our high school years and how we found out about good music. Growing up in Idaho we did not have access to radio stations that played anything other that top 40 music, blech. We instead had to rely on music papers and magazines from the UK which we could only get when we went to Utah. Back when there was Select, Melody Maker, Q and enemy to THE MAN the NME. The later two are still around but we don't read them as much if at all anymore. We also had the beloved show 120 Minutes on MTV. It was on Sunday nights at 10 pm. As mentioned before we lived for this show. One of the best videos we ever saw that will always be a favorite of ours is by Echo and the Bunneymen. It's just a performance video but it still gets us geared up to boogie and sing our hearts out. We recently saw the Bunneymen at Radio City Music Hall and as always it was FANTASTIC!! The first half was a lot of classic songs, we sang and danced like we were 15 again. The second half was with a full orchestra and they performed all the songs off their classic album Ocean Rain. Throughout the second half old photos of the the band were projected up on screens. It was so lovely to see them when they were first starting out. We just love 'em!

sweet sixteen

2008-10-02T08:00:00.004-04:00

Sixteen years ago today our lives changed forever. Our dear sweet mum and our sister Denise drove us to Salt Lake City from Idaho when we were sixteen to see THE MAN for the first time in concert. We will never forget that day and all the happiness it has brought to us since. We would not be who we are today if it was not for HIM and that single event. A huge thank you goes to him for saving us from the dreadful years of high school and beyond.

music is my drug

2008-09-28T21:06:00.011-04:00

Last Sunday night Heidi and I saw The Presets and Cut Copy at Webster Hall. This is the third time we have seen Cut Copy in the last six months and it just gets better and better every time. We also saw The Presets a few months ago and they were just as brilliant this time as the last-we danced our legs down to the knees for both of them.

It's not a secret that we are really into music (a certain someone in particular) and I was just struck again last weekend over how much I love, love, love music and how much it is involved in my life. So many experiences and friends have been the result of my passion for music.

When I was fourteen you could say I discovered the "alternative" scene. That was when it really was alternative (now you'd call it indie) and growing up in Idaho there wasn't anything to aide in our quest for music other than some British music mags, zines and MTV's 120 minutes. Heidi and I lived for this show and recorded it religiously every weekend (what were we going to do with all those videos? I can't even remember). There was also a local band that did mostly covers of the alternative "classics" that we would go see play whenever we could (they played bars mostly-bummer) and that had a great impact on our love of going out to see bands play. We were also lucky that our mum would humor us and took us to see some concerts in the big city once or twice. Such adventure!

When you hear a song that you love there is nothing better-pure brilliance. Great music is all consuming to me and I can shut out everything and as I feel the rhythm flow through and warm me. It makes me feel so alive and happy that I am always looking for more to give me a fix (not to say that I don't still love the rest of my beloved collection).

--Katie

** Heidi had a nice laugh at me last night while I washed the dishes. She thought I was ignoring her while she talked to me from across the room but I had my ipod on and I was in a zone. Apparently it was humorous...

doll on a bike

2008-09-24T23:15:00.008-04:00

One thing about living in New York I love is when I have random sightings of actors, musicians and designers-I'm just a girl from Idaho where those types of things just don't happen everyday. My latest sighting was of Syl Sylvain from the New York Dolls.

image via

I met Syl when the Dolls last album came out and I was told that I was "good people" by Syl when he found out I had moved to New York from Utah. The fantastic documentary New York Doll had just come out about Artur "Killer" Kane and the Dolls were having a minor comeback due in part to the film and their reunion performance at the Meltdown festival in 2004. This time I was standing on the corner of Prince and West Broadway in Soho talking to my friend on the phone. A man on a bike came to a sudden stop right in front of me as the light turned red. I looked right at him and automatically said "Syl Sylvain?, yes?". He smiled and nodded. I think he was surprised to be recognized let alone by someone who wasn't even born while the Dolls were together. We had a brief conversation and then he was on his way. I just stood their watching him ride away in shock that I had run into him in such a weird random way.

This is one of my favorite songs by the Dolls, it's a legendary performance that inspired many great musicians. They're nasty and dirty, everything rock n' roll should be.

--heidi

happy birthday darleen!

2008-09-13T10:00:00.010-04:00

Today is my good friend Darleen's birthday. We have known each other for nine years, I can't believe it's been that long already. We met in Salt Lake working together at the scandalous Urban Chic, the store did not last but our friendship did. Since then Darleen moved to Connecticut with her husband for his grad school at Yale and now they have two children with another on the way. Their family has been my adopted home ever since I moved east for school over three years ago. I adore her children, they are fun and wonderful in so many ways. Darleen is a wonderful mom and a loving wife as well as a very talented jewelry designer. When ever we get together (which is not often enough) we always have a great time laughing.

Every year I've lived on the east coast I go to her house for Thanksgiving and every year something goes wrong. It almost feels like we are in a sitcom the way things happen. One year it was the pie I brought-it was ruined on the way to her house on the train. So rather than serve a mushy pie we ate it to put it out of it's misery. Last year we had trouble with the rolls-they wouldn't rise. This year the new baby will have barely arrived so something is bound to happen. One thing is for sure we will get the rolls right this time around, because last year we vowed to have a practice bake off.

Happy birthday to my darlin' Darleen!

--heidi

celebration!

2008-09-11T20:00:00.001-04:00

We are so excited for our big brother Dan and his girlfriend of over ten years Katy who got married in Vegas yesterday! The whole family had been hoping that they would get hitched while they were there since our family loves Katy and we already treat her like one of the family. We wish we could be with the rest of our family to celebrate when they get back home but we'll just have some fireworks in NY instead. They are perfect together and we wish them all the happiness in the world!

here comes trouble

2008-09-10T10:40:00.006-04:00

The anticipation is growing over the November opening of the glorious TopShop. Until then we now have their US website that was launched yesterday to tide us over. Hmm...so many wonderful things what's a girl to do? It's all so fabitty fab our heads are spinning.

The sweet and tender hooligan plaid corsage seems very appropriate for us, no?