Though I live in town now, there isn’t much light pollution.

So when the house is dark, I can see stars from my window whiling lying in bed. :0)

And I can’t wait to lay in the hammock at night and star gaze.

It is the little things which often are the most meaningful.

Wicked Winter Winds.

Songs are like memories for me. Cocteau Twins’ “Ivo” brings back memories of my time in London… Sitting next to my super cool cousin, Diane, in her T7 convertible driving along Surrey lanes on cold rainy winter’s nights listening to the Cocteau Twins on her radio.

Tulip Petals.

As I sit at my desk working, I noticed the tulips next to me were starting to shed their petals. When I look these upturned pedals they bring back memories of childhood where I would make boats out of pedals and float them in spring puddles or sail them down brooks.

What images take you take to a positive moment in your childhood?

unconsumption:

Today’s tutorial: Turn a vintage suitcase into a charging station.

For how-to / DIY details, head over to Design*Sponge.

Related: I created a new uses for old suitcases Unconsumption Pinterest board. Let me know if you come across other creative new uses that I might add to it.

Really cool & actually very useful. Who is going to make me one?

unconsumption:

Here’s another kitchen-related reuse idea: Use a small dresser as an island in the kitchen. It’s an easy way to increase your storage and work space.

(Via Small Place Style: Ideas for the Tiny Kitchen; spotted on Pinterest.)

Note: This one’s on wheels so it’s mobile. 

I like this reuse.

Brand New Year. Self-Portrait. 2012

The first day of 2012 is underway. No traditional resolutions made last night as the clock ticked down. I took this photo when I walked back from the dock to observe the first sunrise of 2012 when I noticed my shadow and it’s motion. It struck me that’s what 2012 will be for me: continuing the movement forward begun in my life in 2011.

Happy New Year everyone.

unconsumption:

The Starbucks container store we posted about while under construction a few weeks ago finally opened on December 13 in a suburb south of Seattle. The new drive-thru location was built to LEED standards and is awaiting certification.

Its built with three containers and implements rainwater harvesting, xeriscaping and reduced signage. If only it weren’t a drive-thru. 

[via Dear Coffee, I Love You]

I like this concept.

2011 was all about social media setting deeper roots. Facebook and Twitter matured. QR codes gained wider acceptance. Niche location-based social networks such as Foodspotting gained ground, and so…

I’d like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukah from my family to yours! Now, off with you… be merry! Enjoy friends, family, and good food!