Metscan

DIVERSE / Baby, it´s c o l d outside?

2012-02-10T09:08:00.008+02:00

It is cold outside ( -27° this morning ).

When you look at the pictures, you can see it too. The smoke rises straight up to the skies from the chimney = a clear sign of cold weather. You can see it looking at Morty. His tail is not wagging.

The stable is still; quiet. Brrrrrrrr.

Last weekend was cold too.

Just this morning, my hb said, that it does not feel that cold anymore..

It may be so. It is amazing, how quickly one is able to adjust to changed situations. In less than a week!

In the beginning of the week, there were higher temperatures. I stayed out longer, got more things done. As the weather has cooled again, I find myself wrapped under the rugs, upstairs.

Maybe this is only the nature of a human being, when being able to choose, how to spend his time.

The days are longer too, from both ends. I feel I have more energy than I did, before Christmas.

Naturally much of the energy goes to coping and keeping warm in the cold.

I am lucky to fall asleep early and easily. I need an eight hours sleep to keep me in balance.

By tomorrow, the temperatures are estimated to rise, and more snow is expected.

Life goes on as usual.

What about your weekend, do you have something special planned? Are your weekends a time to gather strength for the following week, or do you just enjoy a week passed by?

Please share!!

In the meanwhile, wishing you all a happy weekend: )/m

THOUGHTS 77/ I´m smiling

2012-02-09T12:51:00.009+02:00

: )!!

When I came home last night from Hki ( I did n o t buy anything ! ), there were some more comments on my post about the new First Lady of Finland.

Thank you all for writing them : ).

There was also talk about me resembling Jenni Haukio, which I can´t relate to ( btw ).

An interesting conversation arouse about my serious look in all the pictures ( the few ), I have shown of myself.

I explained, that I usually do look serious; it i s me. I am serious ( though quick- tempered ).

Perhaps, and naturally it ( seriousness ) has to do with the life I have lived.

Yes, I had a too small beanie and only a few toys ; ). This is a saying, used in Finland, when you describe an unhappy childhood, with the tongue on the cheek ; ).

But, I won´t go into that. Too long a story, too sad as well.

It is true, however, that a life lived, does leave marks on one´s appearance.

We are able to make observations- preferably IRL - if a person is one, who has done hard physical work outside, or if she/ he is an indoor worker.

Looking at someone, we can definitely see if she/ he is a smoker, an alcoholic, user of drugs or suffering from some disease - physical or mental.

Maybe I just don´t feel like smiling, especially so, when asked to smile for a photograph.

In general, I dislike to be photographed, as the pictures turn out badly. I am not photogenic ; ).

But, to make everyone happy ( ? ), I browsed through the pictures on my laptop, and found a smiling Mette- picture from last year ; )!

What about you, how would you describe yourself? Do you like to have your picture taken, are you satisfied with how it turned out? Do you like to show your pictures in the blogosphere? Why? Why not?

Please share your opinions and views! Thank you so much : ).

DIVERSE / Our new First Lady

2012-02-07T13:57:00.015+02:00

Finland elected for a new President last Sunday.

To my delight, the man, I, along with the majority of the Finnish people voted for, Sauli Niinistö, was chosen.

Sauli Niinistö ( 3., 4. ) has a nearly three decade long political career behind him. He represents the conservative party ( The National Coalition Party ).

This election was a historical one, as it has been over half a century, since the president has been elected from the "right " wing.

Along with a new President, we received a new First Lady, Jenni Haukio ( 1., 2. ).

Jenni Haukio is an academic woman, who has been working the past last years as the Head of Communications for The National Coalition Party.

She got married with Sauli Niinistö ( widower ) in 2009. So far, the couple do not have children. However, there is a dog, Lennu, as a family member; ).

Jenni Haukio is also a poet. Her poems are about the nature. So far, three poem collections have been published, two of them have received prizes.

Jenni Haukio is a young woman, born in 1977 ( Sauli Niinistö, 1948 )!

I am very pleased, that we finally have a very smart looking Presidental Couple representing Finland.

It will be interesting to see, how/if the role of The First Lady changes Jenni Haukio. Both inside and out : )!

FASHION / Absurd set-ups

2012-02-06T13:57:00.010+02:00

During the cold weekend, I browsed through some online stores, and was astonished on what I saw.

Picture ( 1. ) shows a fake python belt by Stella McCartney.

The second picture shows a r e a l reptile belt by Fausto Colato.

The last picture ( 3. ), shows both belts side by side, and - Look at the prices! Nearly identical!

The first one is a fake reptile snake, skinnier, and the second one is broader, and made from real reptile skin.

I can´t believe this!

How on earth can this be explained?

How can a belt, made from who knows WHAT, be priced as high as a belt made from the REAL stuff?

Please, someone, enlighten me!

I don´t understand the " phenomenon " Stella McCartney.

I know, that SM does not use leather in her designs for ethical issues ( ! ) Nevertheless, she has no trouble using other non-environmental materials in her clothing designs!

To name a few: Wool, cotton, artificial materials, which are turned into shoes, handbags..

What about the ethics of these materials?

I am tired of the endless debate of fur products. I don´t understand the " issue " of avoiding reptile leather, yet having no trouble walking in e.g. crocodile- embossed leather shoes.

Why is wearing inherited or thrifted fur or leather products acceptable, while buying and wearing new leather products is not!

In my opinion, if one wishes to live a vegan life, it should be done in a 100% way. And, in the world of 2012, this is very difficult, if not impossible.

Could this even be possible in a commune of some kind?

I realize, that my post might raise strong emotions. Therefore, I would be happy to receive comments. Please share!!!

The pictures above the post are chosen randomly.

DIVERSE / Snowflakes

2012-02-03T15:10:00.007+02:00

Snowflakes ( 1. ) on the window look nice.

Snowflakes ( 2., 3. ) on the roads can cause serious situations.

The two lower pictures show, what is going on the roads close to Helsinki, as I write.

During a few hours, c.200 cars have crashed on the roads leading to and from the city. Due to the cold weather and the wind, the snow has caused a chaos on the roads.

Some roads have been closed, trains are out of schedule, as is the whole public transportation.

It is rare to have a situation like this in Finland, as we are very well equipped for snow and to different weather types.

Friday afternoon, people on their way home..

Despite all this, I am wishing you all a safe and happy weekend!/m

FASHION / Accessories, shoes/sandals

2012-02-02T08:40:00.009+02:00

Spring/Summer 2012 new shoes! Sandals, to be specific.

Yesterday, in Hki, I browsed through a magazine featuring the coming season´s new shoes, and was shocked, when I reached the sandals section!

Just take a look at these catwalk picture sandals, worn by the slim models!

IMO, just horrible.

Having no intention of buying the magazine ( 1. ), over 70€´s, I snatched randomly a few pictures ( 2., 3., 4. ).

These pictures show the average sandals in the magazine.

Ouch, ouch. Young women with already bad feet, wearing shoes way too small for their feet.

Looking at the pictures, is definitely not encouraging me to buy sandals.

Last year, I decluttered my shoes. For one simple reason. They were all too small for me.

Perhaps, due to my age, I have gone up 1/2 size; perhaps, when buying the shoes - in my vanity - I have wanted to buy a size, that " looked smaller and thus better ", but which at home, and finally, walking on the streets of Helsinki, started to hurt my feet, to the point, that walking was impossible.

So, I sold all my previous shoes. There was absolutely no sense to keep something, I was not able to wear.

Yesterday, we had -23°C in the evening, when I came home.

I wore my laced up Tod´s boots, which are one number up my " now " normal size. My feet were not cold at all, as the shoes were generous in size, and I was able to move my toes easily around inside them. What a lovely feeling!

When my feet stay warm, I stay warm.

Looking at the feet of the models above, I feel sad. Sad for their feet. What will the future of these feet feel like?

Do you instantly manage to buy shoes, which fit your feet perfectly? Do you know your correct size?

What about the pointy end shoes and boots, how on earth are they wearable ( not forgetting the skyscrapers )? Do you like sandals?

Please share your comments, experiences and views about shoes. Thank you : )!

THOUGHTS 76 / Dieting

2012-01-31T13:28:00.003+02:00

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. True or false? You decide.

The latest study from US proved, that there is no one magic diet, which is more effective than the other.

If I understood the report correctly, each diet is ok, if you like the food suggested on it, and follow the rules religiously. Forever?

Naturally we all know, that in order to loose weight, you must eat less.

It is as simple as that.

Loosing weight by only adding activity is quite insignificant.

Activity, sports is vital for our mental health, I definitely agree. But one does not loose weight only by adding motion.

For a period of two years, I walked briskly 7 days a week with Boris 1-2 hours a day. I also did the stable work. We had four horses at the time. I did not loose any weight.

I have never been on a diet. Actually I have never even been interested in different diets.

I am, however, trying to maintain my present weight, which might one day be 1 kilo more than the day before. So, then I will eat a bit less the next day. To get " balanced " ;).

I believe, that in order to loose weight, something in the brains must " click ". A psychological change towards food is needed.

I won´t refuse chocolates, ice cream or cakes, but when I eat the unhealthy stuff, I skip my regular meals.

I prefer rye bread, vegetables, fruits and cheese. Being a lacto-vegetarian, I take my vitamins ( iron, multi-, B, C, E ) in pills.

I eat, when I feel hungry. This is usually in the afternoon, as we wake up early.

By no means, is my diet the perfect ( ??? ) one. But I follow it faithfully ; )!

Please share your experiences on diets, have they worked for you? Have you been able to keep your weight at a steady state? Permanently?

FASHION / Comfort wear

2012-01-30T12:31:00.003+02:00

The blogs I follow or visit, show new clothes for all the seasons. Clothes for work, travel and parties.

I seldom see clothes people ordinarily wear at home. Yet most of us, spend quite many hours at home.

My blog makes no exception.

I have shown pictures I " might " wear for some event, clothes, I have actually worn for some occasions, but they are clothes, I quickly remove once at home.

My everyday uniform at home has been: jeans/ cargos and a long sleeved T-shirt. Boring.

I long for some change.

What about an angora/wool tulip shaped sweater/dress, with a fleece lining and pockets - just for fun - on the sides?

Yes, I know, mine is quite short, but I wear it with opaque 80 Wolford tights, and I am at home.

I like the revealing neckline, as I have nothing to hide ; ).

I could imagine throwing my ankle length coat over this outfit, and wear it informally elsewhere as well.

I don´t like layering, and wearing this " oversized " knit, I can avoid it.

What about you, what is your comfort wear? What do you wear at home? What would you wish to wear?

Please share your secrets : )!!

P.S. For clarification, the clothes and accessories shown and featured on my blog, don´t necessarily all not end up in my possession.

HOME / Life at Hagalund

2012-01-27T14:40:00.008+02:00

This is the scene I meet every morning entering the stable ( 1. ).

The horses have had their morning oats and hay and are waiting in their stable rugs to be let outside.

It is a -8°C morning, and I decide to double rug the three of them, as they are staying out all day.

One by one, each horse gets his own rug on.

Hampel ( 2. ) has had his winter rug since the late 1990´s, and the Rambo rug has really served well through the many winters.

It was only natural, that Miss M´s horse got a Rambo of his own ( 3. ).

Our guest horse, Mr. B ( 4. ), has a different kind of rug. At times I get frustrated, because the rug is much more complicated to throw on, as it has small buckles here and there.

Morty ( 4. ) has a rug of his own. So small and simple.

Finally, all the boys are out.

I can start my daily exercise. Luckily, it is Saturday tomorrow, and my husband takes over at the stable ; ).

Wishing you all a nice weekend!/m

ART / Miniature sculpture

2012-01-26T14:06:00.004+02:00

Sometime before Christmas, I saw a silver ballerina at Harri Syrjänen´s ( goldsmith & leather artist ) workshop.

It was not on display, it was somewhere in the back of his shop. I asked if I could buy the delicate small ballerina, as I already have a small collection of Harri´s silver objects; sculptures.

The ballerina lacked a pedestal though, and together we agreed on a bubbly acrylic one.

A few days ago, Harri sent a message to me, that the ballerina was ready.

So, yesterday, on my Helsinki day, I picked it up.

Today, I placed it on the small antique table in our living room, and you can see it in the first ( 1. ) picture.

As a small detail, the leg of the ballerina, can be moved, and her dress turns as well.

Since I have many small glass tables around the room, the acrylic pedestal works well in it´s surroundings.

Harri Syrjänen signed his book for me ( picture 2. ).

I found a picture of the artist himself from the book ( 3. ), and he looks very much himself; tall and sparkling friendly eyes.

Visiting Harri´s workshop is always a pleasure for me. He is very polite and always on a good mood!

If you wish to know more about HS, you can google his net pages, simply: Harri Syrjänen.

THOUGHTS 75/ My marriage

2012-01-24T13:54:00.009+02:00

I moved from my childhood home as soon as I finished school.

I wanted to have a home of my own, I wanted to get married and have a child as soon as possible.

In two years, I was married. Next May my husband and I are ( hopefully ) celebrating our 38th wedding anniversary. Compromises were made already in the very beginning. We had to wait for a while for our daughter to be born ( my husband is not as hasty as I am ).

What about the marriage?

For us, marriage is much about being able to make compromises. There have been good times and there have been really bad times.

There has been quarreling and shouting. The girls have had to witness it all. For this, I am sorry.

But, the thought of actually separating, has never been an option for us.

After a quarrel, we have always " made up ", and life has gone on.

When I look back at my family history, no one, from my mother´s side, nor from my father´s side of the family, ever divorced. I lack the model.

There have been times, when I have played on the idea of packing my bag, but it has only remained as a silly thought. Where would I go, how could I leave everything dear behind me?

Looking back at our soon 38 years of marriage, I feel content. I got what I wished for; a marriage and a child. Actually I received more than I ever dreamed of. I have a good marriage and two wonderful daughters: )!

Please share your thoughts about the topic. Perhaps you would like to tell something about your own marriage, why you never got married, why your marriage did not turn out like you expected?

This post of mine was inspired by Lisa from Privilege, who wrote an honest post connected to divorces in her blog last Saturday.

The pictures above, were taken last Saturday, my husband managed to catch the blue morning moment.

FASHION / Shirt

2012-01-23T07:32:00.007+02:00

This is my only shirt. It matches perfectly with the coloring of our nature outside. It matches my mood.

The shirt has a divided scenery pattern in white and grayish black. A shirt in 100% cotton, simple, with a modest, non-pointy collar, somewhat shaped in its lines.

It can be worn over a skirt or pants, or loosely tucked inside them.

I like to belt it with croc, as the colors match. Naturally my everyday crocodile bag gets carried along.

A shirt is not a typical piece of clothing for me. I dislike the " strictness " of a shirt.

I dislike sharp collars.

However, the collar on this shirt, settles smoothly and, and with ease, when I leave the top buttons unbuttoned.

This shirt is from the spring´s new collections, but the belt was bought on a discount, already a year ago. Both from one of the small shops here in Helsinki, which I visit occasionally. Both from the same brand.

The sales are still going on, but some few pieces for the next season can already be found.

Have you set your eyes on anything new yet?

P.S. As a reminder, all the clothes and accessories featured on my blog, don´t end up in my possession.

P.S.S. pve-design, thank you for joining as a follower of my blog. I just took a quick look at your blog, and I see everything beautiful there. I´ll be back asap : )!

HOME / Too much snow

2012-01-20T16:59:00.009+02:00

It is Friday afternoon. It is snowing again.

My car has rested for two days, and so it is covered with snow.

The fridge is empty, as you can see.

Someone should go to the store. But I am not going anywhere. My car is going nowhere today.

This week it has been snowing every single day. I am done with the snow.

All the simple tasks over here are so much more complicated to perform, due to the snow.

The horses have to be extra rugged. The rugs have to be changed and dried.

Pushing the wheel barrows in the snow, is like training in the gym.

Doing the stable chores is my daily gym. Lighter work 3/4 of the year, tough work 1/4 of the year.

This is the 1/4 of the year. Btw, I just heard from the radio, that m o r e snow is promised for the whole weekend!

Luckily we have a tractor. No way could all this snow be shoveled away. Luckily I don´t drive the tractor.

This weekend is a special weekend here in Finland. We are electing for a new president on Sunday!

Unfortunately there will be a second round. I have already given my vote for my candidate - in advance.

He is the best man for the job. Too bad, that he will have to go through a second round.

It is democracy.

We have democracy here at home too. Since my husband is " on the road ", he will have to shop the groceries, so the fridge can be filled once again.

Wishing you all a snowy weekend ; )!/m

P.S. Great, Toffeeapple, thanks for joining in : ).

P.S.S. Sandra Martel and Martina - wow, thank you for you both, for deciding to join in my blog as new followers : )!!

THOUGHTS 74 / About freebies and giveaways

2012-01-19T11:56:00.007+02:00

I am aware, that my post today might change your opinion of me from a " nice " blogger to a not so nice blogger.

However, I am willing to take the risk, as the topic of my post has bothered me for a long time.

For starters, the picture shows two freebies; samples of special face cremes.

The one on the left, was given to me, when I bought a jar of my usual HR facial creme.

The one on the right, was posted to me. I did not ask for either of them.

Usually, I avoid accepting samples of any kind. There have only been two times, when I h a v e actually asked for a specific sample, to stretch my cents for a few days.

I simply don´t want to receive something, I have no use for.

The other part of my topic is a complicated one. It is something, I see being practiced in blogs from time to time.

Giveaways.

I admit having participated in this " game " myself. Four times.

Giving or donating something away, is easy for me. It gives me pleasure to delight someone.

If I gift someone, it is because I sincerely want to give " that something " away to someone.

I am certainly not expecting a gift in return. Actually I am quite horrified, should someone send me something. I am very hard to please, yes, I really am, and remember -I am the one, who declutters all the time.

I know, that there are those, who feel as I; they really get a good feeling, being able to pass a giveaway.

I am not naive though, there are some among us, who have different motives for distributing giveaways. Maybe they wish to raise the amount of their followers, or whatever..

So much for the ones, who distribute giveaways.

The thing, that really interests me, is all the people, who pop up out from nowhere, and express their wish to join in the " giveaway party ". All of a sudden, tens of comments are left, where so many express a desire to have whatever is on offer.

What motivates these people to crawl out from their nests and stretch out an empty hand?

As I mentioned, I have shared 4 giveaways. I have never since heard anything from one of the women, I sent my gift to.

This did not come as a surprise. It was my very own choice to give something away, no strings attached.

I have not taken part in a giveaway party.

I have no intention taking part in one, in the future either. Personally ( but it is just me ), I feel participating in one somewhat humiliating. Maybe I´m a snob, maybe I´m odd..

Giveaway parties are over for my part as well. Having written this, I´m not saying, that I won´t ever send anything to anyone anymore. Quite the opposite. I would like to send a gift to everyone of you ( we´re it possible ).

But the next time, the donating will be sent as a surprise.

Surprises are fun. Fun for me, and hopefully for you too : ).

So, what thoughts do you have about freebies and giveaways?

What makes so many of us all hullaballoo over them? What makes you/ or why don´t you take part in a giveaway party?

Please share your thoughts, I would be very interested to know what motivates you/ or why you are not motivated to join the giveaway game!

P.S. Angele Style, thank you for joining in as follower of my blog : ). I´m soon coming over for a visit to your blog!

FASHION / Ballerinas

2012-01-17T13:53:00.006+02:00

My new python ballerinas. I ordered them yesterday, and now I have them!

Python in purple, brown, white and black. A perfect match with my deep lilac ( the color has aged ) tote.

No, I´m not selling these; just showing them on my blog.

Once again, I did some wheeling and dealing, to get these shoes. I sold my previous ( unworn ) Tod´s ballerinas and a knit.

The python ballerinas were on sale, and adding 80€´s, I was able to afford the new shoes.

As you might know, I like reptile, lizard on accessories. No imitations, it has to be real. If I can´t afford the real thing, I´d rather be without.

Writing this post, I am aware that my likings might irritate some of you. Sorry for that.

What is your opinion on reptile accessories? Would you rather buy reptile imitations for accessories? How do you feel about reptile and animal prints on clothes?

Please share your opinions : )!!

P.S. Vanessa Gramari, thank you for joining in as a follower of my blog : )!

FASHION / Everyday outerwear

2012-01-16T07:31:00.012+02:00

A Saturday in Helsinki again. " Running on some errands ", but I had time to take some pictures too; ).

As Ana guessed, this time I tried to concentrate on women´s outerwear.

The day was a -7°C cold, windy day, so people in general wore warm coats. I only noticed a few fur coats, as they are worn " only on the really cold days ".

There were a lot of down coats to be seen.

When the weather is cold, people are not especially concerned about the ethics of their clothes, fur/ down coats, everything goes.

The ethics of the clothes we buy, would need a post of it´s own.

Strictly speaking, wool and cotton are not ethical materials either.

Yet, most of us wear wool in some form or another.

All the women in the pictures wore wool, down coats or fur. Everyone had leather shoes/ boots, and this time, also the bags seem to be of leather too.

Black is the most popular color on coats, as could be expected. Surprisingly, I managed to snatch some camel coats too.

Brighter colors are seen in sports clothes and on children. Some different colors on down coats too.

Furs seem to be classic. Shades of nutria and black mink coats are typical, especially on women of the certain age.

I have not yet worn my own fur coat, but if I´d go to town today, -14°C, I´d surely pull on my mink coat.

Younger women wear mid-waist coats, even on really cold weather. And - in general, hats, caps or beanies are seldom seen.

Tourists, however, especially the Asians, wear winter outwear already in mild temperatures.

How they manage in our low temperatures, I have no idea.

Tourists in general, bring some eye candy to our street fashion.

In general, the Russians can be recognized by their expensive clothing: Fur coats, high heels, expensive fashionable bags and expensive cars.

This was not the case in the past.

I wore my black, ankle length Moncler down coat, my black Tod´s lace-up boots, a black cashmere scarf and the newly found Stephane Kelian tote.

How do women in your part of the world dress in January 2012?

INTERIOR DESIGN / Interior books, magazines

2012-01-13T08:41:00.005+02:00

I have a passion on interior design. I like to browse through interior design books and magazines.

But I only browse through them. For me, they are look-books. I never read the texts.

There has been a time, I always brought a new book home from my Helsinki trip. So I have quite a collection of interior design books and magazines.

As such, they are a nice add to our own interior; ).

Probably I have snatched an idea or two from these books, and used/ experimented it in my own decorating as well.

The pictures, the settings in general are really nice. Maybe too nice?

Lately, however, I am quite sceptic about these pictures.

Are these interiors really meant for real life; do people really live in interiors like these?

How practical actually are these interiors?

I only chose three pictures for this post. I hope you get the idea.

Look at the amount of stuff all over the rooms! A lot of cleaning needed, with cups, pots and pans hanging here and there.

Not much spare place to cook and prepare food, as the table tops are filled with this and that.

The last picture shows an old table surrounded by old chairs, all different. It does look cute, but in reality, you see this " idea " suggested in every interior design magazine, or book.

This is s o off.

Now, I have to make a confession.

We have an old, antique table in our kitchen too. Right now, it has a numerous amount of Bubu chairs around it. Yes, the Bubus are modern, but I am planning to replace the old table with a new one. Maybe with a table, I´ll have to design myself. I have an idea, I´m working on. More about it later on..

Browsing through i.d. books can be educational in a reverse way as well.

If you go through many of them, you might come to the conclusion, that none of it is, what you really want to have in your house/ apartment.

What does your dream house look like? Are you eagerly searching for ideas and working those ideas through?

Or is interior design something, that simply does not interest you at all?

Please share your ideas and thoughts during this weekend. I hope it will be a lovely one!/m

FASHION / A light bag

2012-01-12T11:24:00.005+02:00

Yet about bags.

I started to think about the weight of bags. Kathy, in her comment, in one of my previous posts, pointed the weight issue out. True, so many bags, even the small ones, are quite heavy, even when empty.

I don´t carry a lot of stuff along. Only my wallet, a small cosmetic purse ( light ), my Moleskin diary + pen, the cell phone, a bag hook, the light extra bag and a small brush and yes - the digi camera.

These articles don´t add much weight.

Then, suddenly I remembered, that many years ago, I bought a Stephane Kelian bag, which I never wore, so I gave it to Dr. M, who kindly offered to save it. When I lately asked her, if she uses it, and when she offered it back to me, I was delighted. We made a deal. I gave her something special, and in return, she gave me the bag!

The bag in the picture is the Kelian bag. A luxurious bag of shiny black leather, made in France, with long enough handles to be carried on the shoulder, as well as on the arm.

Wow.

This turns even better. The bag weighs only 24.3 grams! Is this going to be the bag that I will wear in the future, when I am old and weary?

Heck, no. I think that I will take the bag immediately for a trial, as I´m off to Hki again today.

Though the bag was bought many years ago, it still looks quite fashionable. It has the lovely tulip shape I like, and goes well with both my black shoes of polished black leather.

One of the great things about this bag is, that it is not a " tooted " label. Those, who are well informed, know, that Stephane Kelian is a respected brand. And I know it too : ).

So, what do You think of my " new " bag?

Are you as tired of the heavy bags with the chains, studs and bling blings as I am?

P.S. I forgot to mention, that the bag has several " departments " in the inside, two with zippers as well.

FASHION / Everyday bags

2012-01-10T08:03:00.012+02:00

As promised, I have pictured bags/ handbags, average women in Helsinki carry in January 2012.

Once again, I was on the mission on a Saturday. Sometime in the past, people used to " dress up " going downtown on a Saturday.

These pictures however, are not showing people from the past times.

I feel quite depressed, on what I finally managed to photograph.

Once again, after c. 70 pictures, these are the only representable ones. I don´t like any of them.

In general, nearly all bags were some shade ( yes, shade ) of black. Plain, saggy blacks. Some of them were " cheered " by chains and studs.

I saw a few backbags. The third ( 3. ) bag in leather could be worn by a man as well.

As it is winter, there were only few colorful or light bags. Actually the palest ones looked very odd in the dark surroundings.

Some crossover bags could be noticed, though worn with a thick coat, they were not flattering, nor practical at all.

Bag ( 6. ), however was functional, as the young woman was pushing a baby cart, and had both hands free. The size of the bag was in proportion to her height as well.

And yes, I caught a picture ( 7. ) of a label bag - Burberry.

Three LV´s were toted around too, one of them definitely a fake.

Phew..

I must confess, that picturing bags was much more difficult, than taking pictures of shoes.

On this specific Saturday, there were lots of people shopping, lots of people with ugly bags. So depressing.

Somehow, the sight of the bags reminded me of a trip I made to St. Petersburg ( then Leningrad ), in late 1960´s. USSR.

I have no more to add.

Please share your thoughts and opinions, thank you!

P.S. Dear Lesia, thank you for joining as a follower of my blog!!

THE GUEST BLOG / Bathroom update

2012-01-08T15:18:00.020+02:00

In this guest blog I present you with my recently renovated bathroom. The main obstacle of the old bathroom was a huge built-in tub which left no space for a laundry machine. In the renovation I wanted to give the bathroom a low-key update yet preserve something from the atmosphere of the 1930s building. The radiator on the wall is original. Instead of a - now so popular - shower corner I went for a round curtain rail, which also gives (the illusion of ) more space. The white tiles on the wall are identical to the ones in the old bathroom, only the layout is different. Typical to pre-war buildings the ceiling is very high, which I decided to flaunt by placing the bathroom sink and mirror cabinets higher than the standard. The tiles of the bathroom floor I picked to match the grey shade of the large tiles in the hall. The "joystick" faucet is designed by Antonio Citterio and it is one of the few items I splurged on. The framed picture by Annie Leibowitzt I snatched from a magazine years before Schwarzenegger became a political figure. It yet needs to be hung on the wall above the washing machine.

-M

THOUGHTS 73 / Change

2012-01-06T10:04:00.005+02:00

We are celebrating Epiphany today.

This is the time, Christmas is literally carried out from almost every home.

As some might remember, I did it already right after Christmas Eve.

This is a holiday. Stores are closed, with some exceptions downtown, where shops are allowed to be kept open from 12 to 21. This has to do with the many Russian tourists, who have their holidays at this time, and have invaded southern Finland. They have money to do luxury shopping, which is good for our economy.

The picture on this post, is a " trailer " for a post, I have planned. A review of handbags, carried by ordinary Finnish women.

However, also another thought came to my mind about bags.

In general, I think, that women are interested in bags and shoes. Some more, some less.

Others are satisfied with just about any bag, real or fake leather; an original designer bag or a fake, whatever.

Practicality goes often over the design. However a good bag has both these qualities.

My mother had some " nice " bags, yet in my age, as did my MIL.

My mother even had a stylish top- handle crocodile bag, which she got rid of at sometime, and when I asked about it´s whereabouts, she refused to answer.

The MIL had several Dior, Burberry and Mulberry bags. She has always been interested in labels.

But what happened?

During the last years of her life, my mother only carried cheap purses, something she got for free from e.g. her bank. Cloth, or fake leather bags, real uglies.

Now, it seems, that also my MIL no longer carries designer bags. Instead, nearly invisible, ordinary, old-fashioned purses, which no longer match her outfit.

So my question is: What happens to us women, after we pass a certain age? What is that age ? Is it only a normal sign of aging, the lack of interest in what we wear; clothes, accessories, all?

Do we really wish to give up? Or does it just happen ( naturally there are exceptions among some of us )?

I have felt a bit shocked since my latest visit to the MIL´s.

Now, in the case of my own mother - I was prepared to expect anything. But the MIL, who has taken great interest in material stuff, clothes, bags..

What do you think about this all? Have you noticed something similar with your aging family members, friends?

Is there something I am missing? Is there anything to do, to prevent this happening to us?

Is my worry a needless one?

Should we just let go?

Please share your thoughts!!!

Despite my post being somewhat low-toned, I wish you all a nice week-end!/m

FASHION / Hair accessories

2012-01-05T13:20:00.008+02:00

Hair combs, hair accessories like these, have been on the markets for ages.

For me, however, they are new. I have never had/ worn these before.

The combs are by Alexandre, the best manufacturer there is.

When I saw them, I just had to have them, as they match p e r f e c t l y with the bag, I wear daily.

I know, I know. There are multiple ways to wear the combs, but I manage to tie my hair so easily on a smallish bun with these.

Here in Finland, the son of my jeweler, has the dealership for Alexandre hair accessories.

A good/bad thing at the same time for me ; ).

The picture with the combs on my hair was taken " ex tempore " by Miss M : )!

DIVERSE / Gifts

2012-01-04T10:31:00.005+02:00

I received these two " ash trays " as Christmas presents from my jeweler.

The first one is gold-plated silver and the lower one is silver.

Both have a sketch by J-L Sauvat on them. Naturally a sketch of the head of horse. Signed pieces.

In general, I like silver more, but like to add a bit of other metals into details of i.d.

The silver pieces stand up better with a little mix, IMO.

Nowadays, ash trays are seldom used. I don´t know anyone, who would smoke inside someone´s home.

Nevertheless, these are beautiful relics from the past times, when smoking was considered " sophisticated ".

However, having these on display, I am braking my own rules: " Have nothing you don´t know to be useful..

Sorry, this is my only exception, as the rule goes on: or believe to be beautiful in your house ". ( William Morris )

It is a rainy, stormy day again. Hopefully the lights will not go off.

I am off to Hki, as it is Wednesday.

Do you have things, not known to be useful, around your house? If you do, why so?

Please share : )

FASHION / Everyday footwear

2012-01-03T08:02:00.010+02:00

Earlier, I have featured my own shoes, and perhaps some shoes from new collections, so it is about time I show you what kind of shoes women wear in Helsinki.

Last week, I sat down on a comfy leather couch in our leading department store, Stockmann ( to give a break for my hurting ribs ), and took my digital camera and started taking pictures of the shoes, that passed me. About 70 pictures, and here are the ones, I selected for my blog. Seven pairs of shoes, boots women wore on that day.

The day was a +6°C temperature day, not cold, but nearly everyone wore winter shoes of some kind.

I wore my loafers, as the streets were dry and the climate mild.

In general, the footwear I saw ( IMO ) was bad, just awful. The ones here, are the gems.

I believe, that all the shoes on this post were worn by Finnish women.

Russian women wear fancy, very high pumps. Japanese or Chinese tourists are all dressed up for winter, as are their shoes too. Lots of UGG´s and huge sneakers.

I intend to save my winter footwear for the cold weather. Those days are just ahead of us.

I could not make out, if anyone wore any " special brands ".

Taking pictures of the fast walking feet was not as easy, as I had expected. I had no time for zooming, I just kept snatching pictures.

No one paid an attention to what I was doing ; ).

So what is your verdict? Does this look familiar in your part of the world as well?

THOUGHTS 72 / About thanking

2012-01-02T07:13:00.009+02:00

For starters, I wish to express my: Thank You to Abby, from My Spotty Pony, who was kind to send me this " Liebster Blog " award.

Liebster is German, and means dearest. I have studied German for three years way back in school, but by no means, am I able to use it. My German is rusty.

However, being European, German feels familiar in many ways.

The award is given to bloggers with fewer than 200 followers.

The rules:

1. ) You are to thank the giver, who gave it to you.

2. ) Reveal your 5 blogger picks, and let them know, by leaving a comment on their blog.

3. ) Copy and paste the award on your blog.

4. ) Hope, that the people, you have sent the award to, will forward it to their 5 favorite bloggers.

So, Thank You Abby, My Spotty Pony, for surprising me with this cute award!

My five picks are chosen from my own blog roll. I wish to send this award to the following bloggers:

1. Darla - Bay side to mountain side

2. Ana - cat´s pajamas, dog´s tuxedos

3. Dr.M - Meramel

4. Mrs.LJ - today

5. Mardel - restingmotion

Congratulations!

The second part of my post today is a discussion of two simple words : Thank You.

Why?

I have noticed, that expressing these two simple beautiful words are used very often, especially in blogosphere.

These are nice words.

Coming from another culture, the words of praise, and all the thank you´s, in the very beginning of my " blogger career ", surprised me somewhat.

Finnish people, in general, are quite reserved, and we say the two words aloud, only when we really mean them.

Nowadays, however, I am quite used to " the system ", and thanking seems a very natural thing to do.

Praising, however, still feels a bit odd. Being totally honest, I have tried to save my praisings to things, I really appreciate and like. Perhaps this has to do with my culture too.

A puzzling thing over here, in Finland, is : how to respond to a " thank you ".

We Finns usually reply with a : thank you to a thank you. I would like to say: you are welcome, only this does not work over here.

But, stubborn as I am, I am willing to change my behavior. I will continue thanking, and when responding, trying to use the words: you are welcome.

This is a very minor thing to mention, but the above odd culture has disturbed me for a long time.

How do you respond to a: thank you?

Is there any other expressions, used in everyday life, you would like to/ could change?

P.S. Welcome, Elisabeth E, for joining, as a follower of my blog!!!!

HOME / The New Year´s Day 2012

2012-01-01T12:18:00.011+02:00

Happy New Year´s Day from Hagalund!

Luckily I have three New Year Days pictured. The first picture ( 1. ) is taken today, 2012.

The second ( 2. ) from 2011, and the third ( 3. ), from 2010.

The two first winters were really snowy, way too much snow to my liking.

This year however, there is just some powder snow on the ground.

The first day of this year is a brisk, -7°C, sunny day. How wonderful!

We spent a very quiet eve last night. A New Year´s Eve without any typical, national traditions.

No parties, no guests, no special food, no drinking.

What a wonderful feeling!

During the last years, we have slowly dropped out many traditions connected to Christmas time.

The amount of gifts shared, is minimal. The decorations are few too. No outside Christmas lightning.

I am a bit hysteric about fires, so we don´t even light candles as often as people usually do.

The Christmas food has changed too, as we are vegetarians over here, all but " T ", my husband.

Due to the storm, all our prepared food got thrown away. We did not feel like taking the risk of eating spoiled food.

However, all the chocolates disappeared ; ).

Actually I feel quite pleased - no extra kilos on my waist : ).

Tomorrow, back to normal life.

I can´t wait..

Hopefully your New Year started happily. Please share. I´d love to read views and comments from where ever you are !!! /m

P.S. What a funny thing - I have written exactly the same amount of posts years 2010 and 2011 = 253 ! So, total 506, and 4 posts from the year 2009 = 511.

DIVERSE / Potpourri 2011

2011-12-30T08:04:00.007+02:00

Tomorrow is The New Years Eve.

What a perfect time, to go through my pictures from the year 2011.

Here are some, not yet shown on my blog. Pictures from this year.

Happy pictures, sad pictures.

For the first picture ( 1. ), I chose a picture from the road leading to Helsinki. It is symbolic.

Life goes on.

Picture ( 2. ) shows Mrs. Golden, on a bright winter day in the paddock. Only no longer with us.

Picture ( 3. ), Boris. This picture is from late summer, only a few weeks before he too left us.

A happy picture ( 4. ), Dr. M and her friend " I " coming over for their first visit together to Hagalund. Look at the amount of snow!

( 5. ) My husband, " T ", having a rare break in the late afternoon. Rare, because he seldom rests without a book in his hand.

I am wishing a Happy New Year 2012!

I also wish to thank Everyone for sharing my blog with me. Without You, all this posting would not have been possible.

Hugs, Mette

DIVERSE / Procrastination

2011-12-29T12:28:00.017+02:00

Forget about decluttering.

The b i g word right now is procrastination!

In psychology, procrastination refers to the act of replacing high-priority actions with tasks of low-priority, and thus putting off important tasks to a later time.

The strongest connection to procrastination however is impulsiveness ( so true in my case ).

I quoted Wikipedia for the definition.

I have ALL my stuff organized. I have my Christmas stuff back in the Gustavian drawer ( 2. ). I have emptied and cleaned my fridge and done my laundry. I have my New Year´s stuff ready in the right corner of the drawer ( 1. ). The Easter stuff is there ready too. And the Christmas decorations for 2012 are all ready as well!

How could I be considered as a procrastinator?

I am even writing this post in good time. Blogging is important for me.

Now I will have to pause for a minute..

Okay. I admit. I am writing about my doings, but not about what I really have to accomplish today.

There is a bunch of papers. Papers I have to go through.

As my hb is a private enterpriser, it means, that I have to participate somewhat in his work too.

So, today, about 20 business calls for me to make; to keep the money coming, to get some food in the empty fridge!

But I am delaying it, as far as possible. I have to finish this post first!!!

Therefore, I have to admit, that I am a procrastinator.

Some psychologists have proposed three criteria for a behavior to be classified as procrastination: it must be counterproductive, needless and delaying.

I won´t sign all the three criteria though. Blogging is not always needless. For me, it is definitely therapeutical and much of a healing process.

What about all my other small doings here and there? Have I lost my sense of what is really important?

Maybe decluttering too is procrastination?

Waiting eagerly for your comments and thoughts about procrastination!!!

P.S. Thecurateswife, my 70th follower : Welcome!

THOUGHTS 74 / After the storm

2011-12-28T08:42:00.004+02:00

Two days after the storm. Peace and quiet. The sun is shining. No snow : )!

No trees, although many of them terribly old, crashed on our yard.

We have yet to go check our forest, hopefully no bad damages over there either.

Lots of houses are still without electricity, households near and far.

I am off to Hki today. No shopping however in my program. Just our Wednesday club meeting.

All stores and shops have sales, but I don´t need anything. I checked the online- shops, only to find out, that there was nothing desirable over there either.

I have removed all our Christmas decorations, the few we had.

I am ready to start a new year, a new chapter in my life.

Although it felt bad to throw away food from the fridge, I feel relieved.

Our refrigerator is totally empty. What a good time to give the fridge a thorough wash/clean- up, and from now on, try to fill it only with food we really wish to have in it!

I will also go through all the rest of the dry food, and throw away battered cans, old flour, etc.

As a matter of fact, I´ll get out of bed this moment to perform the tasks I wrote about!

Are you planning to do a clean-up soon?

How long do you intend to keep your Christmas decorations in sight?

DIVERSE / Tuesday shots

2011-12-27T07:37:00.008+02:00

Good morning Everyone!

No posting yesterday, as we and about three hundred thousand households were without electricity all yesterday, 15 hours.

A real bad storm hit southern Finland. No rain, no snow. Just the storm.

Today, some more storm is promised, but not as bad as yesterday.

However, I decided to post early - just in case.

The first ( 1. ) picture shows one way to use the red belts, the ones I bought before Christmas - with a black simple top and a silk/ cotton black tulip skirt.

( 2. ) My Christmas gift - black Tod´s pumps.

( 3. ) The shoes on my feet. Classic, medium high heel, comfortable.

( I sold my Chanel pumps to fund these ones ).

In addition, I received two interior design books from Dr.M + a pillow for my lap top : ).

Our Christmas was a simple one. Only I ate too much chocolate.

On Christmas Day, we visited the MIL. She was on a good mood and quite ok, considered her age ( 90 ).

The Second Day of Christmas was spent indoors, as the wind blew so hard.

Today, we are back to normal living. The next " big thing " is New Year´s Eve.

No plans for parties.

Today, the sales are starting all over. I have no plans to buy anything.

However, I plan to visit Dr.M´s, as her bathroom reno is finished. I´m all excited to see the results!!

So, what did You get for Christmas? Please share!!!

P.S. I just noticed you M! A warm welcome as a follower of my blog !!!

SPECIAL INFORMATION:

Two years ago, 25.12.2009 I wrote my very first post.

The very first comment, I ever received, came on this date, 27.12.2009 from Deja Pseu!

So, thank you Susan, for helping me in the very beginning. I am SO grateful for you!!!

THOUGHTS 71 / About Christmas

2011-12-23T12:40:00.005+02:00

The 23rd of December; one day till Christmas Eve.

By now, everything is about ready for Christmas in my part of the world, the Eve being " the Day " for us.

Tomorrow stores will close by noon, to be opened on the Second Day of Christmas once again.

The roads away from Helsinki are crowded, as lots of people are going to spend their Christmas time with their families scattered all over upper Finland.

It may not come as a surprise, that I have never liked this particular season of the year.

Obligations, obligations and more obligations.

Christmas raises great anxiety in me. It always has. Anxiety and depression. I guess I know by now, why.

The knowledge helps, but my psyche has not changed overnight.

Christmas is the time of the year, when I really wish I could enter hibernation like bears.

However, there still are things, that make me happy.

Having my small family around me is the greatest thing!

I have no grandchildren ( yet ) ( ; , but I have a few furry " babies ".

Morty, Hampel and Jerome.

I am happy that I was able to bathe Morty yesterday. This evening will be Hampel´s turn.

Doing small things like these, give me great satisfaction.

This year I have skipped performing " the grand cleaning of the house ". A few years earlier, something like this, would not have been possible.

This year, when I actually have a place for everything ( no clutter around ), everything looks fine and in order. No panic.

Neither am I fussing about the food. What we don´t have, we can live without. And why oh why, is so much food even needed?

These are my thoughts today.

I deliberately chose a blurry picture of Morty for the post of today. Perhaps the picture describes my feelings best : )..

I wish each and everyone of You a Happy Christmas !!! /m

P.S. I wish to welcome Coco as a follower of my blog. What a nice gift for me : ).

FASHION / Accessories/ belts

2011-12-22T15:44:00.004+02:00

My second post on accessories, but now only one picture. Two leather belts.

These are Finnish. I " accidentally " found them last Saturday, tried one on, and came out from the shop with two.

I must admit, that I was a bit amazed how cute, and how affordable they are.

Turning and twisting them around, I found no fault in them.

Red. Not my color, but I thought, that these belts could be worn with practically all my clothes.

Each belt comes in a different shade of red, which makes wearing two belts together actually visually interesting!

FASHION / Accessories S/S 2012

2011-12-20T12:10:00.010+02:00

Welcome to see my picks of the spring and summer 2012 accessories!

As before, I browsed through the L´Officiel 1000 models Accessories magazine. This magazine is one of the very few fashion magazines I buy.

Bags are a major must-haves of the season, whether XXL or teeny-tiny, says the magazine.

Another big thing is color. Unusual, eye-catching fabrics and other materials, innovative and astonishing - and you are ready for the next season!

The magazine has 168 pages of bags and shoes, but I only found three bags I like, and one pair of shoes; booties.

In my opinion, the shoes looked odd in general, just as odd as they have been the past seasons. Lots of platform pumps and wedges, which are not to my liking.

Nor were there any bags, I could not live without.

( 1. ) The cover of the magazine, L´Officiel.

( 2. ) Bottega Veneta crocodile handbag. Wow. Now, this looks so much better, than the coveted Hermes Birkin. This bag is my absolute favorite! I would not mind having one ; ).

( 3. ) A surprise from Prada! A large clutch or a small tote - naturally crocodile. The color is delicious.

( 4. ) YSL, Muse 2, looks like this now. YSL is my favorite brand, so I chose the best one they had ( IMO ). This is an easy, soft bag. Unfortunately, the picture of it is bad ( ; To be carried 24/7.

( 5. ) Finally, the only pair of shoes I like. Sturdy, snake skin booties by Michael Kors. I believe, that these would feel comfortable to wear.

Please remember, that I commented only on the ones I liked.

Perhaps you might like to view the magazine yourself. Perhaps you might find something interesting. Perhaps you might even skip your Christmas present this year, wait, and buy something from the new collection : )!!

P.S. Welcome Mrs Exeter for joining as a follower of my blog : ) I´ll visit your blog ASAP!!

THOUGHTS 70 / Labels; plaques; signs

2011-12-19T07:18:00.017+02:00

So what´s this all about?

Labels, plaques and signs I have. Signs marking the obvious. LOL ( again, if only I could ).

When our house was renovated, I bought a WC sign ( 1. ) for the doors of the two bathrooms.

In 1994, I " found " a vintage breadbox ( 2. ), which has it´s place in the stable kitchen. We keep the dry bread for the horses in it.

Now, why on earth did I buy a " Housekeeper´s Box "? This is a new product ( 3. ).

What I dislike about these examples is, that they have a text marking the obvious.

We all know, which door leads to our bathroom ( the house was renovated soon 15 years ago ). Ok, a guest needs guidance, and we will show him/her to the right room.

We all know, where the dry bread is kept in the stable, even Hampel does ; ).

I sure know, where I keep my cleaning stuff, as I am the only one using it.

And, why are these names printed in English? I am a Finn.

Luckily we don´t have doggy bowls, with the word: :" Dog ". Nor do we have coffee cups, with: " " Coffee " written on them, no bowls with " Popcorn " written on them.

Hey, we are not that stupid. I know what a coffee cup looks like, and Morty does not want to eat from a bowl, with the word " Dog " on it; ).

Sorry for this burst of mine. I am just tired of this kind of marketing. I am tired of fooling people to buy everyday stuff at a more expensive price, with these foolish labels.

With everything marked, the " surprise moment ", at least for me, is spoiled.

So, what to do?

I have already removed the WC signs. I have turned the breadbox so, that the text is not in sight.

I plan to remove the text from " my workbox ", or put it away, sell it ( actually it is not practical at all ).

Please share your thoughts about the topic! Maybe I´m all nuts, maybe it would be cool to have everything labeled and marked.

In my opinion, decluttering makes all this " labeling " useless : ).

However, our name plaque on the door stays : )!!!

P.S. What a nice surprise: Mira_I ! Thank you for joining as a follower of my blog. Please don´t hesitate to leave comments : )!

P.S.S. Yet another nice surprise: my free choice ! has also joined as a follower of my blog. I feel double happy now, thank you!!

INTERIOR DESIGN / Details, doorstops

2011-12-16T11:15:00.007+02:00

Last year, about this time of the year, I posted on doorstops.

I have a new one again.

It´s place is in the master bedroom. French made, with scented herbs inside.

The color, by mere chance, is the same as the fur throw on the divan, deep purple, aubergine.

The shape is that of a pyramid, and it is made of velvet fabric, with ribbons purple and gray.

I got a call from the French woman, who has a shop in Hki. She has a large selection of French this and that, tableware, fabrics, etc. in her shop. Last year, when I bought a similar one from her shop, she promised to get me another one. The delivery took one year; )!

Nevertheless, I´m glad she called. The door stop is charming, and functional, as it helps the door to stay open as much as wished for, and prevents it from banging against the wall.

I recommend!!!

Once again, I´m wishing you a happy weekend! It´s the fourth Advent Sunday. I will light the fourth candle.

P.S. Louise, a warm welcome! I´m so glad you signed in as a follower of my blog : )!

FASHION / Jacket

2011-12-15T11:10:00.007+02:00

Yesterday, I fetched my jacket from the seamstress.

Yes, a jacket. I have never actually liked jackets, but this tweed fabric Armani jacket somehow had potential in it.

A black skirt suit is what I am looking for, but this is the closest I got. This will do.

The jacket was sold separately, but there is a matching dress to it, only I don´t want to have a dress.

I am hoping, that the dress will end up reduced. That´s the time for my next move.

I hope to get the dress. Get it styled into a skirt, and - then I will have a skirt suit!

The jacket has now been tailored. It was too large for me, but now the fit is perfect.

In the meanwhile, or even without a skirt of the matching fabric, I can wear the jacket with e.g. the off white pants, or a black skirt ( had I one ).

I guess it is the rich, softish texture of the fabric, that attracts me, the small collar and the shape, which is quite feminine.

I found the jacket accidentally. Just as I always find my things.

What about you? What´s your way shopping?

INTERIOR DESIGN / Lightning

2011-12-13T14:02:00.002+02:00

I include lightning closely as a part of interior design, interior decoration. Designers believe that light does, indeed, give our world its definition.

In this short post, I concentrate on one of my very favorite designers, Ingo Maurer.

Ingo Maurer, born in Germany 1932, is a German industrial designer, who specialized in the design of lamps and lamp installations. He founded Design M in 1960, a company designing and manufacturing lamps after his own designs.

One of his first designs " Bulb " ( 1. ) on the cover of the book ( Ingo Maurer received the book as a surprise 75 year birthday gift ), has been in the collections of MoMa since 1966.

( 2. ) This low-voltage wire system " YaYaHo " halogen lamp was introduced in 1984.Oh, how I coveted having it at the time! The good news is, that it is still in production - unchanged!

( 3. ) " Lucellino ", ( 1989 ) the light bulb with wings, became Ingo Maurer´s trade mark. I fell in love with it immediately and have both the table and wall model.

Btw, the lamp has had a rough time, when we had a cat, who would tap its wings on/off all the time ; )

( 4. ) " Zettel´z " ( 1998 ), which comes in two sizes, is one of my favorites, of Maurer´s paper lamps. I use it as a guest book!

( 5. ) " Pierre ou Paul " is the name of this lamp ( 1999 ), three handcrafted aluminium segments are welded into a dome. The traces of its construction are visible on the outside, and are almost ornamental.

( 6. ) " Zufall " ( 2008 ), is color, function and silicon with LED lights blended into an unique desk lamp.

Since 1980´s Ingo Maurer has worked with a team of younger designers and developers.

He visited Helsinki in September, this year ( 2011 ).

Unfortunately, I missed his visit, but managed to get the book: Ingo Maurer, designing with light.

P.S. It was difficult to choose only a few lamps for display, since there are so many fascinating lamps to choose from.

I recommend!

THOUGHTS 69 / Associations

2011-12-12T11:56:00.007+02:00

Today it is all about associations; positive and negative associations.

Kathy brought up this subject in the beginning of this month.

She wrote: " I associate certain items with certain events, or things that happen. If it is something that turned out negatively, then I want to get rid of all the tangible " things " associated with it.

The clothing, jewelry or whatever for me, takes on the negative quality. "

I agree, I feel exactly the same. Whatever the " thing ", I have to get rid of it.

What about positive associations?

Now, I have to reveal the " odd " side of myself.

I can´t, I am not prepared to accept compliments, I don´t feel that I ( my things ) are worth compliments; therefore positive associations are few for me.

I do know the background to this all, but making a change in behavior is difficult.

For me, writing this blog, is one way to change my behavior. I am well prepared in receiving negative comments, but the positive comments I receive, frighten me.

I could add to the quote Kathy wrote, something like : " If it is something, that turned out positively, then I want to get rid of all the tangible " things "associated with it. "

Associations. Such a difficult subject. In good and bad.

Please share your thoughts on this interesting subject! Do you have similar experiences?

How do you deal with your feelings? Do you know the base of your behavior? Would you even wish to know it?

P.S. The tea lights in the picture are sold.

I bought them for my mother´s after funeral memorial gathering. I also sold my black skirt suit, the black shoes. I gave away the clutch. I threw away the black tights. I wore no jewelry.

All this, for reasons already mentioned above.

THOUGHTS 68 / Friendship

2011-12-09T18:34:00.003+02:00

Good evening!

It is seldom I post this late, but I just had to show you this wonderful card, a token of friendship, I received today.

Anything is possible. And it is true.

I started writing my blog soon two years ago. I knew nothing about blogging. I knew nothing about all you great people out there - in the blogosphere.

I had no idea, that I could get acquainted with real people through blogging. But I did.

I got the email address of one of you, and then She emailed me, and the rest is history.

I got a friend. A new friend. Meeting and becoming new friends at a " bit " older age is different, sometimes difficult, sometimes even impossible.

Two people, with a totally different background, two people from a different world, how is it even possible?

We do, however, have something in common. Horses.

Maybe it is our love for the most beautiful creature of the animal kingdom, the horse, that finally sealed our friendship?

Will we ever meet? I don´t know. Right now, I know, that I have her friendship, she has mine, and I may write to her about anything - happy and sad things, and I know that she will understand.

I hope and believe, that she feels the same: )!

Anything is possible.

Please share your thoughts about friendship!

I wish you all a wonderful Third Advent Sunday!/m

FASHION / Accessories for Christmas

2011-12-08T11:52:00.005+02:00

I received a brochure personally mailed to me from Louis Vuitton.

It was addressed to: Miss!

As someone might remember, I have bought two articles from LV this year, so I am a " potential " customer; ).

A lux brochure featuring accessories, LV is offering to " me " just at this time of the year!

Perfect timing this time, as I am lying on my sick bed and ouching, feeling frustrated and even cynical ; )

Well, I browsed through the brochure, as I normally do with fashion or interior design magazines these days.

My first notions were positive. I really like the covers; the pattern on it is cheerful, with a circus feel, repeated again in the inner pages.

The photography is excellent. I also like the lack of people; there are only some animal figures on the brochure.

I like the non-glossy paper used throughout the brochure.

Along comes an extra black/white price list for the accessories pictured.

Last - the best part - there is nothing I covet from this brochure : )!

Now, if I´d be forced to pick something for myself..

Ok. I would choose a wallet ( 2. ), the third from the left, Zippy, Monogram Idylle, 530€.

It is in " my colors ", and I´d carry it during the summer months.

But, I don´t need a wallet. I don´t need anything from this brochure. Right now, I´m perfectly happy with the three bags and one wallet I have.

And besides, I think that I am more of an YSL girl.

Nevertheless, I´m glad I received post from LV.

I don´t need to enter the shop now, especially not now, when walking is difficult.

I´m delighted to have time for surfing in the net-shops, performing " imaginary purchases " or like in this case, just browsing through the pages/sites.

How do you feel about receiving lux brochures? Do you get all excited? Do you think that women in general, buy things ( not even needed ), when approached in e.g. methods like the one I described above?

Or, WHAT, makes you/makes you not buy things, you can live without?

DIVERSE / Independence Day and some horsepower

2011-12-06T09:27:00.005+02:00

Today, December 6., Finland is celebrating it´s 94th Independence Day.

The first picture was taken at 9 am, when the flag of Finland was raised on the flagpole.

What a surprise, to wake up in the morning, and see the snow, in the form of sleet, on the ground.

The snow always comes as a surprise. Hopefully this snow will yet melt away.

It is also a tradition over here, to light two candles in front of each window at 6pm for a period of two hours.

Our president is throwing a ball at the president´s palace this evening.

Millions of Finns will gather in front of their TV set this evening, and watch the evening gala.

This year, around 1900 guests have been invited to attend the ball. Politicians, ex-presidents, diplomats, achieved people in the fields of science, literature, arts, sports, and people, whom the president has met during the past year, have been invited to attend the party.

The Independence Day Reception, as it is officially called, is the most festive official happening of the year.

There will be coffee, cake, small sandwiches, drinks and dancing.

We have not been invited ; ).

The day is a national holiday, and unfortunately - a sick day for me.

Last Friday evening, I had a small accident at the stable, as a consequence of my own stupidity.

Now, for ages, I have medicated our horses successfully, either by giving injections i.m., or placing the medicine straight in the mouth, or mixing it in the food.

Hampel has had a sore mouth since his last dentistry, so the vet prescribed painkillers for him.

He has never liked his head or mouth touched, which I know perfectly well.

Therefore, I asked my hb to assist me.

So, there we three were, in Hampel´s box, trying to make him take the medicine.

Only this time, he got really wild, and with the force of 650 kilos squeezed me against the doorway.

I heard the sound of a crack, and immediately knew, that " something " happened to me.

Yes, now I have some broken bones on my rib/ ribcage. Sigh.

It did not actually feel this bad until yesterday, after I finished my work at the stable.

I am per now unable to do anything. It was nearly impossible to find a position to lay myself down to bed last night.

But, with the help of painkillers, I will survive. This phase is going to last a few weeks ( I broke some ribs a year ago too ).

But I am terribly frustrated. There are lots of things, I now have to leave undone.

Miss M. is going to do the stable work during the next few weeks! So the horses don´t miss my absence, and the stable will be taken well care of. In fact, the stable is tidier after her.

But what shall I do? Probably I will have to do some more office work. Yippee ; ), LOL ( if only I could laugh )!

Anyways, I am wishing you all a nice Tuesday. I will probably listen to the radio in the evening, listen to the gala.

When only listening, I get to use my imagination, and " paint the scene of the party " my way.

During the past years, I have found out, that watching TV is boring. I prefer listening to the radio.

What about you? Do you watch TV, or have you returned back to the radio, like me?

P.S. I wish a warm welcome to my new follower, Unikorna :)

DIVERSE /Calendars, notebooks, diaries

2011-12-05T12:55:00.011+02:00

This is the time of the year, when many of us buy new calendars, notebooks or diaries.

I make no exception.

I bought a new wall calendar ( 1. ), naturally a one featuring flat-coated retrievers. A new picture for each month.

I also purchased a new Moleskine notebook ( 2. ), this time a weekly diary from Moleskine´s Cover Art collection.

My cellphone ( 3. ) also has space for small notes.

Last, but by no means least - my own blog - metscan - serves as a very personal, yet very open diary, where I share my thoughts about different topics - chosen by myself- several times a week.

I have had my blog for soon two years, and writing down my thoughts, receiving comments, replying on the comments, fills my writing needs. I don´t want to keep a " hidden " diary.

Probably, I lost the interest of keeping a diary, after my mother revealed to me that she had read them all.

The wall calendar is used for writing down the daily weather degrees. We also mark the birthdays of the furry ones on it, the vet appointments, the farrier´s next date.. It´s place is in the mudroom, so we are bound to check it every day, several times ; ).

I use my own notebook for writing down my own appointments, and just to be extra sure, I add the " furry details " on it too. For a change, next year´s diary has an address section in it!

My cellphone is not used as a notebook, I only have phone numbers on it.

So, tell me about your calendars, notebooks, and diaries. Maybe you even have some other ways of keeping track of appointments, and special dates? What kind of things do you write down?

I´d be interested to read your comments. Please share : )

JEWELRY / The apple

2011-12-02T14:40:00.004+02:00

Most of us know the story of Adam and Eve.

Here is the apple. Red rubies and white diamonds, emeralds on the stem.

I managed to exchange my black boot pendant for an apple. I really liked the boot, but somehow, at this certain age, when the earth´s gravity is pulling us downwards, I wished to have something " lifting ".

My jeweler experimented on an idea of his, and above you see the result.

Yes, wheeling and dealing again, but in the end, the deal was a win/win.

Wishing you all a great weekend. Next Sunday we will officially light two candles!/m

FASHION / GTO

2011-12-01T17:55:00.003+02:00

Yes. GOT, girls outrageously!

My very first red pants. Really. I´ve never had a pair of red pants.

When I saw these, I said - yes, gotta have them. These were 50% off, and I did not even try them on.

By Lexington, model chino, slim leg, normal waist height.

When I tried them on at home, they fit perfectly!

Naturally I cuffed them immediately, as I like my pants absolutely cuffed ( long legs ).

These are of thick cotton, ok for winter wear, and if I cuff them a bit more, the red does not show from under my long coat.

The pants have a bluish hue, so they are not Santa Clause red, and match my color chart.

These are meant for home wear, but since I dress casually, these can be worn going down town too ( with the long coat ).

My dark gray , long sleeved T´s go well with the red and naturally I´ll wear my black/dark gray tights and black shoes/boots.

I´m actually surprised by my sudden choice. It was love at first sight.

And I don´t care, if someone thinks that these are not age appropriate for me. Wow.

What do you think, would you buy colorful jeans/pants and - would you wear them?

Please share. I have already thrown the tags away. I´m keeping these ; )

DIVERSE / Necessities

2011-11-29T12:39:00.008+02:00

So what are these?

Those of us, who live in northern countries, probably are familiar with shoe- spikes.

They look ugly and clumsy, but at least over here in Finland, we need to place these over our boots sometime in the winter, to stay on our feet.

There are various models, but for me, this model is the best.

I got them as my Christmas present last year from my husband. Yes, as a Christmas present.

Well, all I can say, that he really seems to care for me, my well-being is important for him, lol ; )

What kind of Christmas presents have you received from your husband?

What would you wish to get?

Or have you decided, not to buy gifts at all?

Please share. I´d be interested to read your comments. Am I the only one, who got shoe-spikes?

P.S. By request ( J.W. ) I added a picture of Hampel´s shoe-spikes, Hampel´s snow shoes.

I have to remind you all, that these shoes are worn and look like it too ; ).

You can see the iron shoe, on it 4 studs; two in the front and two on the back. These enable the horse to move around, without sliding " much ". The black rubber is an ( anti- ) snowball pad. The rubber is placed between the hoof and the horse shoe.

This pad is of extra importance, when it snows, as the hoof gathers snow without a pad, making riding extremely uncertain. The rubber prevents snowballing.

Sorry if you did not understand my explanation (;

Please come over to see for yourself !!

INTERIOR DESIGN / Small changes for The Christmas Season

2011-11-28T07:48:00.011+02:00

As I have stated, I like the time before Christmas. I like to do small interior decoration changes around the house. Small ones.

These views have been already shown several times before.

Picture ( 1. ) shows a view over our living room, during this time of the year, in daylight. I have replaced the tea trolley elsewhere, as it is an occasional piece of furniture.

The angle of the grand piano was moved some centimeters, and the small glass tables were mixed and matched. You get a glimpse to the dining room far right.

Picture ( 2. ) shows one of the two Christmas pillows, bought from Bla Vargen ( the village shop ). I think that they look " Christmassy ", and the wooden button matches with the wood in the furniture.

A view ( 3. ) on the western side of the house. I know, I should only have lit one candle on the windowsill, due to the first Advent. Please excuse my enthusiasm.

The last ( 4. ) picture shows a view on the northern side, with the Christmas hearts in a mouth blown glass jar, waiting to be placed on the Christmas tree..

The last too pictures are taken around 7 pm. It is totally dark outside. Yesterday, was all about rain and storm. A day, to be spent inside.

Looking at these pictures myself, I don´t think, that I will add much more Christmas decorations. It already looks festive enough, imo.

After the Christmas tree is brought inside, and the few ornaments placed on it, Christmas may come, on the 24th of December.

P.S. I´d like to remind everyone, that thoughts about pets in my Open Forum ( November ), is waiting for comments, if you wish to share your thoughts.

Thank you : )!

P.S.S. Valentina, I welcome You warmly as a new follower of my blog. Thank you!

DIVERSE / A new shop opened!

2011-11-27T09:05:00.002+02:00

A picture of the newest shop in Helsinki. Clothes and accessories for men.

Expensive stuff, starting from a belt, 1.500€ to a suit 10.000,00€! The quality is exclusive.

It is interesting to see, how this shop will succeed in Helsinki.

Hopefully the Russian tourists will keep the business going on!

P.S. The blue crocodile belt looks g o o d !

DIVERSE / Insoles for new boots

2011-11-25T16:03:00.006+02:00

Today, I drove over to our local artisan shop for a mission.

I needed a pair of boiled wool insoles, for my winter boots. My feet are e x t r a sensitive for the cold, so this year I decided to get a pair of new boots, which are larger than my normal size, and with cashmere socks and extra wool insoles, I hope to keep my feet warm.

The shop did not have my size, so I bought a larger one, which can easily be cut smaller, to fit my new boots.

Actually I bought two pairs, one for my hb as well!

The shop, Blå Vargen ( Blue Wolf ), has existed all the years we have lived in Sipoo.

Today I heard, that they are closing!

How very sad. The shop has always provided me with something " local ", small gifts for our home, and for our friends, and now suddenly - it is closing.

Perhaps it´s location, beside an old road to Helsinki, has never been a good one. For me, the location has never been a problem, as I always use the old road, which follows the coastline.

It was 2pm, when I was at the shop, and I was Friday´s first customer.

What a shame.

But - I got what I needed, and perhaps something " extra " too, to be shown in another post.

Dear everyone : Have a nice weekend.

This Sunday is The First Advent Sunday!

P.S. By request, I added a picture of the new boots ( yet for trial ), but I believe I´m keeping them : )

DIVERSE / Wednesday in Helsinki

2011-11-24T16:06:00.004+02:00

Yesterday, I visited the leather artist and goldsmith Harri Syrjänen´s shop. I had along a belt, which needed special square- shaped extra holes. I knew, that H.S., being familiar with leather, might be able to help me.

My timing was perfect, as he was just leaving for a two week Christmas Fair, held in Germany. He has attended the famous Lubeck Christmas Fairs already for 20 years.

There was " just " enough time for him to do the job for me : ) What luck!

Waiting in his small studio ( 1. ), I took a look around, and found something to be placed inside a box ( 2. ), with his trademark- a small elephant- on it.

So what did I find? This ( 3. ) is the Devil!

How wonderful, that the devil is so small ; ) Nothing to be afraid of. A small silver sculpture, set on granite.

You might remember, that I have bought several silver balls from H.S. already earlier.

Now I have a small collection ( 4. ) of art by Harri Syrjänen.

My very first piece was an amber torso, set on granite. Later on, I asked to get the amber changed to ivory, as I liked the latter better. Harri was kind, and filled my wish!

The collection is now by the southern window side. As I have written before, I keep changing the places of my things around the house.

Right now, this place feels right for the collection.

THOUGHTS 67 / Things about You

2011-11-23T07:52:00.008+02:00

Good morning!

I´m off to Hki around noon, but wished to contact You today too.

I got an idea about posting and asking You all to write something positive about Yourself today.

It is just so easy to write about negative things ( or is it? ).

So, all I am asking You to do, is to write a short ( or long ) list about the positive sides of Your personality - about the things, You think are positive concerning You.

Hampel ( in the picture ) is chosen as an example, because he is a positive personality.

I volunteer to start this quick quiz.

I am:

1. ) realistic about my own skills

2. ) reliable

3.) quite honest

4.) faithful to those, who are faithful to me

5. ) usually on a rather good mood

Now I am waiting with interest to read, what You all come up with : )!!

Please share!!

DIVERSE / Frost on the ground

2011-11-21T14:57:00.015+02:00

The ground was covered with frost in the morning, but luckily no snow yet.

As I am writing, the temperature has gone up, but the windows of my car are still covered with some frost ( pictures 1. and 2. ).

We don´t have a garage for cars, so the scrubbing of the windshields is an every morning chore for the following few months ( ;

Luckily I have an excellent tool for the job ( 3. ). Unfortunately I don´t know the English word for it ( ;

The tool is a Danish product, by Stelton, so all the more shame on me for throwing the package away with the English name of the tool on it.

The parking disc on the front windshield ( 1. ) is also by Stelton. Naturally I also need a snow brush, shovel, torch, tow rope and maybe even some sand for driving on the wintery roads.

An important article to have along in the car is a neon yellow vest, which should be placed on, if you have to step out from your car in the dark. Mine is right under the driver´s seat.

Last winter, a tow truck had to be called twice to pull my car out from a ditch, because there was so much snow, that I was not able to recognize where the road ended, and where the ditch started.

Yes, I know. Women as drivers.

How are you prepared to driving in the dark, in the winter? How do you feel about driving in the winter, in the dark, on the snowy roads?

Are the roads well taken care of in the winter, in your part of the world?

P.S. Forgot to add, that naturally I have studded tires and the car is a AWD. Impossible to drive up the hill without the 4WD.

HOME / The Christmas Season has begun !

2011-11-20T15:19:00.005+02:00

A Happy Christmas Season for Everyone!

Here in Helsinki, the main Christmas street ( Aleksi ), got it´s Christmas lights 3pm today.

So, believe it or not, " The Season " has officially started now.

I wrote earlier, that I have gotten rid of much old Christmas decorations, yet I still buy " something new ", something inexpensive, each year for the home.

This year I chose these small hearts. To be hung on the Christmas tree and at the stable.

The dark ones are for the ones with dark fur/hair, the pink ones for our girls, and the lighter ones to be divided by Jerome and my hb.

Never mind, everyone can pick her/his own ; ).

The hearts are handmade. They are so simple, that even I could have managed to make them myself, had I thought of it.

Anyone - feel free to copy the idea, if you like!

Sunday over here, has been coldish, -7°C ! Brrrrrrrr.

And the weather forecast has promised snow!! I hope, that the snow alarm was only a joke.

The blue moment is just here..

Enjoy your Sunday : )/m

JEWELRY / Bits of jewelry etiquette

2011-11-18T08:16:00.006+02:00

I saved some pictures from the L.T. jewelry exhibition, to be used later in my posts.

The above jewelry, is from the jewelry show.

I " stole " the topic for my post today from " coffeeaddict ". Please forgive me Ana, but your post on brooches got me interested!

So, I googled and found some bits of jewelry etiquette, and am willing to share the information with you.

First. Where do you plan to wear your jewelry ?

This is the most important issue to consider, before you even start planning your " decoration ".

1. ) If the occasion is formal, " real jewelry " is preferred. Please don´t mix gold and silver.

The pieces worn, should compliment each other, in style and character.

As the piece of jewelry is a part of your outfit, it should be chosen carefully.

A multicolored dress/ shirt looks at it´s best with pearls of one color ( or without them ).

2. ) A casual outfit ( jeans and T-shirt ) do not need your inherited piece of cameo.

Please don´t mix " real " jewelry with knick-knacks.

3. ) If you are lucky to have thick hair, you don´t need to wear big earrings. However, those,

who have short or thin hair, benefit from showy earrings ( unless you have a round face ).

4. ) A bit about brooches, which are to be worn on the right side of your outfit:

One with broad shoulders, should not wear brooches, nor short necklaces at all. Instead,

big rings and bracelets are preferred, to attract the attention away from the body´s widest

section.

5. ) A pear-shaped woman chooses glamorous earrings, or a brooch to show off her upper body

section.

6. ) Those, who are somewhat " round ", wear massive jewelry; perhaps a big brooch close

to the shoulder. Avoid long hanging pendants, instead, place it just above the

highest section of your chest. A woman with a round face, should also avoid loops and short

necklaces. Hanging earrings and geometric shapes look interesting, if your face is round.

7. ) A tall and slender woman looks best in middle sized necklaces. If your body shape is

I- shaped, avoid long, hanging necklaces and pendants. If you have long arms, bracelets are recommended.

8. ) If you are short and petite, please choose small sized jewelry, which is in balance with

your size.

9. ) A woman, with a large breast, broad hips, but a small waist would find middle sized

necklaces, rather small earrings, and a brooch set quite high, very satisfactory for her.

I googled this information from a Finnish site, so perhaps these " rules " are only a northern guideline to wearing jewelry, for a Western woman of a certain age, with no big surprises.

The information is only basic.

Last, remember the final rule: Before leaving your home, take one final look in the mirror, and remove one piece of decoration.

Although Christmas is on it´s way, we won´t like to resemble the Christmas tree ; ) -

FASHION / 2 = 1

2011-11-17T14:24:00.006+02:00

Purple is a difficult color to photograph. I had to do some tricks to get the color as close to the original, as it is seen, at this time of the year. This is pretty close enough.

Perhaps you wonder ( or not ), what the topic is about.

I did it again! I sold two older sweaters to buy one new one. Impulsive as I am, I have to learn things the hard way.

Sometimes I get it right at the first time, sometimes not.

This is my second trial. To keep. For now.

The purple sweater is by: maison martin margiela, made in Italy; soft wool with just a bit of mohair.

When I tried it on, I was sure that it would feel itchy. But surprise - it was not!

And wearing an undershirt, as I always do with sweaters, it feels just fine.

I like the color and the small interesting detail, the wrap/fold, or what could I call it, on the front. The neckline is pleasing too.

I pictured it with my croc belt, and intend to wear it so, with my similar croc bag.

Or, I can wear it with my deepish lilac bag.

I have no regrets selling two for one, as I now know, that I will have more use for this purple one.

And, when something comes in, something must go out.

Have you found a special new color you like?

JEWELRY / Jewelry show

2011-11-16T10:49:00.009+02:00

Last evening I was invited to see the latest of my favorite Swedish artist´s jewelry.

The jewelry was on display at an antique shop.

The designer herself was there, so for the first time I got to meet L.T. in person.

She was such a gracious and lively lady of a certain age, with beautiful grayish hair.

She posed for me too, but since I did not remember to ask her permission to place the picture in my blog, I ´m now only writing my own impressions.

However, I was able to take some pictures of her jewelry.

Beautiful, strong necklaces, which look at their best, worn with simple, well cut dresses, cashmeres..

Most of the necklaces are festive. Yet there were some simple ones for daily wear. But, then again, the personality of the person wearing them, rules.

L.T. makes her jewelry from odd bits and pieces she has collected over the years, and where sky is the only limit.

She, herself, admits, that her jewelry is for strong ( in it´s multiple meanings ) women to wear.

I arrived in perfect time, and had a chance to talk with her in Swedish and English.

It turned out, that she had found my blog; from a post about the ceiling lamp.

Oops., I really felt s o embarrassed.

Then and there, I realized that the blogosphere really is an open book.

Therefore, I am now only using her initials, but if you go back to some of my posts from last year - well, it is all there, her name and everything!

Needless to say, I did find something I liked. What might it be?

What do you think about the designs?

How do you feel about the internet, as it snatches every single bit of information you place in it, stores it forever?

Naturally I have been conscious of all of this before, but yesterday the might of the " net " really astonished me.

THOUGHTS 66 / Mixed feelings about decluttering & organizing

2011-11-14T16:57:00.009+02:00

Over the weekend, I have read blogs discussing both decluttering and organizing.

And I am so frustrated.

As I understand it, these things really have little to do with each other.

Decluttering ( for me ) means to get rid of stuff, you never or hardly ever use. There are numerous ways to perform decluttering. To explain it in a simple way: Either sell or donate your stuff.

Organizing is more complex.

Organizing ( for me ) means, not to get rid of your stuff. It means usually buying different boxes, bags, and tags to place your stuff neatly in similar shapes and colors of containers, and arranging the marked stuff in your cupboards, or even buying new storage shelves to keep and save " everything ", for actual use or for " just in case ".

Clearly having read several blogs about decluttering and organizing, I have found out that there are fanatics, belonging to both groups. I have mixed feelings. Actually I feel tired of both things right now.

Especially so after reading about organizing.

I have flagged for decluttering as long as I can remember. I believe in only keeping the things, I really like and like to use. I don´t wish to stock things for the " bad day ". I´ll handle that day, when/if it comes, with what I have.

Ok, some organizing is ok for me too.

As an example, I spent 15 minutes today, and transformed the Gustavian chest of drawers as a storage chest.

I replaced the holiday stuff in the top drawer ( 1. ). The extra things, the things I like to mix, match and change occasionally around the house are in the middle ( 2. ). Last, I decided to dedicate the lowest ( 3. ) drawer for photographs. I yet have all the " antique " pictures to add ( ;

This is " casual " organizing. This is as far as I will go in the organizing department. I don´t intend to mark the stuff by tags of any sort.

This stuff has been decluttered already many times earlier, and I won´t say, that I intend to keep this all forever.

Somehow, today, I realized, that I am not a hoarder, nor am I am minimalist, and by no means is frugality my virtue. I just wish to have a sensible amount of things ( for me ) and live my life peacefully.

I think ( now ) that I will take a brake from the subjects decluttering and organizing and concentrate on something else for a while.

So, what are your feelings about decluttering and organizing?

Would you like to share them here on my blog?

HOME / Just another Friday

2011-11-11T13:01:00.010+02:00

This week I have posted about fashion stuff. Enough of that for now, I hope. Fashion is fun, but HOME is the most important thing in my life for me.

My daughters, my husband, Hampel, Jerome, and naturally Morty.

I just finished my work at the stable and served the horses ( 1. ) their snack - carrots.

Being the only dog in the house now, Morty follows me like a shadow, and wanted to come inside too ( 2. ).

He knew, that it is not his meal time yet, but he placed himself near the fridge ( 3. ), just in case.

As you might notice, the Bubu chairs have occupied our kitchen, leaving more space to move around, and hiding bits and pieces of everyday stuff.

By now, we have 9 ( ! ) of them , five around the kitchen table.

You might remember, that Dr.M has several Bubus in her apartment too. Maybe, just maybe, we are Bubu fanatics; ).

This Friday is a gray day. Quite depressing, actually.

However, next Sunday is Father´s Day, over here in Finland. It is one of the few days of the year, when I bring upstairs the morning coffee tray.

Dr. M is coming over later on Sunday, and once more there will be coffee/tea and perhaps a cake!

I have yet to get a small present for my husband. Maybe a book. This is not going to be a surprise, as he has expressed his wish for a certain book, in advance.

Our weekend will be busy again. It is time to make the final arrangements for the winter, e.g. gather the water hoses before snow covers them, fill the wood baskets and close and insulate the northern door of the stable properly.

I have not raked the leaves yet. Perhaps I should. Some people say that it is a useless job, some prefer to do it twice a year.

Oh, I almost forgot. The windows need to be washed. A gray day is most suitable for doing that.

Right now, however, I´m only planning to do it ; ).

Wishing you all a pleasant weekend: )/m

FASHION / Shawl 2 with a sweater; dress

2011-11-10T15:29:00.005+02:00

I took this gray dress/ long sweater home for trial, from Hki yesterday.

Simple by design, generous V -neckline, long sleeves, 100% lambswool, from the Swedish Lexington company. I tried it on with my gray cuffed jeans and it actually looked quite ok.

This morning I tried it on with my pepper gray ( same color ) thick tights and accessorized it with shawl 2 and the matching colored bag and jewelry.

I have gray shoes, if I wish to wear it as a dress, or at home, I could just pull on my gray cashmere socks over the tights.

Another way to wear the dress, is as a sweater. As a sweater, over jeans, the fit is tight in a nice way. Dark gray jeans, black tights, black shoes and black accessories.

I really like the simplicity of this knit. I have only positive experiences of Lexington products.

They are well made, and still sensibly priced. This could be a nice addition to my wardrobe, which is very small. Colder weather is on it´s way, and worn as a sweater, this knit would keep me warm.

I have two weeks to decide whether to keep, or whether to return the item.

At this point, I am ready to keep it.

I am not asking help to decide what to do, just wanted to show you the dress - in case I decide to return it back ; )

I have told you all, that I am quick in making decisions; ) Sometimes I make the right decision ( right for me ), sometimes I end up taking my purchase back to the store, or sell it ( in the worst case ).

Whatever the case, I seldom suffer from buyer´s remorse.

What about you, do you feel bad spending money on your personal things? Do you suffer from buyer´s remorse?

If so, how do you handle your emotions?

FASHION / Shawl 3

2011-11-08T15:14:00.005+02:00

This is the latest, in my mini series of shawls.

Yet another Faliero Sarti shawl, virgin wool and silk, slightly larger than the one I showed yesterday.

The scarf matches my home and about down coat, with colors like olive, brown and nutria on it.

The olive and brown are much to my liking, and my mink coat has the nutria shade in it.

I have definitely prepared myself for the cooler and cold season, though we still have surprisingly warm weather.

Once again, I can wear this shawl over my shoulders, when I am indoors, and avoid the stressing layering or wearing thick sweaters or cardigans, which hardly fit under my coat.

For records, I now own four wool shawls and one in cotton.

Ida was correct ( ! ), I took back the one with the dark balls, and was able to fund these two new ones, with money, received from the secondhand shop.

Have you made interesting purchases lately? What about the decluttering, are you making process?

As I have followed what I r e a l l y wear daily, weekly, I have noticed, that I practically wear similar clothes every single day!

Going downtown, I accessorize in multiple ways, and then naturally, the weather plays a big role in what to wear.

FASHION / Shawl 2

2011-11-07T13:17:00.009+02:00

I really seem to like shawls. I like the color of this one ( 1. ), deep heather. I like the material of it, 70% virgin wool and 30% silk, and I like the size of it 80 x 200cm.

This one is by Faliero Sarti, a reliable Italian brand.

I might wear my long sleeved dark gray T and matching jeans, throw the shawl over my shoulders, grab the same colored bag ( 2. ) and feel warm, cozy and " dressed up ", for whatever event I attend.

Or, I can wear the shawl on at home, whenever I feel cold.

Due to the texture of this particular shawl, small wrinkles don´t matter. In fact, the shawl is meant to look a bit "shabby ".

Faliero Sarti is available online too, with a generous selection of scarfs and shawls, for summer and winter wear.

Having parted with many of my knits, the shawl is a welcome addition.

And I have already worn this one, the tags are removed ; )

HOME / All Saints´ Day tomorrow

2011-11-04T14:52:00.013+02:00

We over here in Finland ( Sweden too ), celebrate All Saints´Day tomorrow.

It is a tradition to visit the graveyards, and take flowers and candles along. Tomorrow is the day to remember those, who no longer are with us.

As a family, we seldom visit the graveyard. Old traditions are broken. In some ways, this feels sad, in some ways, it is a relief.

However, tomorrow is a day to pause for a moment, and perhaps light a candle at sunset.

I am not a religious person, although I belong to the Lutheran Church, as does my hb.

During the last years, we have only been to the church for a few weddings and funerals.

The church feels quite distant for many of my generation, and even more so, for the younger generation.

I really don´t know how this all has happened.

When I was a small girl, going to church at certain times, was a must. A non-negotiable thing.

I have not insisted my children to come along to church with us, and now, when they are adults, they do, as they please. Just like most of their own friends.

Going to church at Christmas time, can be a highlight though. The candles, the Christmas tree, the familiar Christmas hymns.

I bought my first Amaryllis today. I like it´s blossom time best. Somehow, I wish that it would n e v e r open to full bloom.

Maybe buying the Amaryllis is my humble way of remembering, and respecting the ones no longer with us..

Maybe this post provokes you to comment and share your thoughts about All Saints´, about traditions, about religion..

Please share :)

Wishing you all a peaceful weekend./m

FASHION / Small changes

2011-11-03T13:35:00.008+02:00

You have seen this Elm dress before. I remember buying it over an year ago, and posting on it.

So, why do I show it once again?

Well, I have been lucky to lose some weight, and had the dress go through a small fix-up.

I have a lovely dressmaker, who does her work neatly.

The sleeves have been taken in, also work has been done around the breast, back and waist, and now the dress fits perfectly on.

I brought it home yesterday.

The shop, that sells Elm design over here, has a -20% off for all clothes this week. Naturally yesterday, on my Hki day, I ran over.

There was a nice black dress, which I tried on. The fit was perfect.

Ouch, I was so tempted to buy it, but having considered the possible purchase sensibly, I left the shop empty handed.

I already have a black dress, shown in the picture above. The material of the one I have, is to my liking. And - scarce are the occasions, when I get to wear a festive dress.

One is enough.

Lots of times, I get rid of clothes, which I don´t like. The Elm dress however, was worth taken to the dressmaker, as I like the unique model.

There are already memories connected to the dress. I had it on at Dr. M´s evening party, last June.

After the dress has been fixed; taken in, I now have the great challenge to keep my weight under control (; SO challenging!

I feel rather good ( maybe ), having been able to resist the temptation to buy a new dress.

As I mentioned the other day, a jacket suit is what I lack, not a dress.

Do you use the services of a dressmaker, to do alternations on your clothes? Perhaps you are even able to do the job yourself?

Or, do you just store a piece of clothing " waiting ( and forgotten ) " for the time, when you are able to wear it again?

Third, do you just part from clothes, that have turned too small/large to wear?

DIVERSE / Organizing and decluttering

2011-11-01T13:05:00.011+02:00

I found a new blog via Northmoon´s post, during last weekend: 365 Less Things!

The blog is all about decluttering, donating, selling and giving away stuff you don´t need, and don´t want to keep in your possession.

I really got excited, as I am devoted to living with less myself. When my cupboards, drawers, closets and wardrobe echo emptiness, I feel content.

I have our house pretty well in control. Ok, the workroom has files, but I don´t have the permission to throw away " important ( ? ) papers ", and this bothers me.

Our huge barn hosts a l o t of things, 90% of them belong to my husband!

The remaining 10% consists of our outdoor furniture, horse rugs, horse things and two big boxes.

The other one holds some toys, small girl´s fancy dresses and our younger daughter´s childhood memory stuff. The other one old, real old photographs - OMG!

I have a mission to declutter the 10% . But what about the 90%???????

Colleen, from 365 Things Less, had a post on Sunday, called: I wish you a merry decluttered holiday season!

This post inspired me to organize my holiday season stuff to the minimum, and the picture above shows the result of only five minutes extra work.

I already had all our extra decorations in the Gustavian drawer in the main entrance room.

So, today I just gathered the Christmas and Easter decorations in one drawer box.

As you can see, the amount is small. No bling-blings, only few decorations for the Christmas tree, some candles, and - that´s it.

The Gustavian chest of drawers is very close to the place, where we set our Christmas tree, so no more searching nor hunting for the decorations, though I often pull the drawer open every now and then, just to check what I have or what I don´t have.

Actually I am now quite proud of myself, for having been able to organize the decorations to the minimum!

I like the time b e f o r e Christmas. I don´t like the a c t u a l Christmas time.

Usually I buy o n e ( or two ) new decoration ( s ) every year. And I might throw away one older, non - pleasing decoration. Just to keep the balance.

Our village´s flower shop will receive their first amaryllises this afternoon. I just might drive over and buy my very first one today! Great!

It is the first day of November!

What is the situation over at your place? Are you waiting for Christmas already? Are your decorations and other possessions well organized?

Please share. I´d love to read your thoughts : )

FASHION / Skirt

2011-10-31T14:33:00.007+02:00

This is my skirt. My o n l y skirt! I bought it already for the new f/w in July! And I have not worn it yet. It is by Giorgio Armani, alpaca/wool mix, hitting just above the knee in the front.

I have never had much need for skirts, but I think that it is a must to have at least one skirt.

I like the shape of mine, a small tulip cut, slightly an irregular hemline, and the texture is great.

My knits are blacks and grays, and I always wear black tights, so no extra additions of clothing are needed. Mind you, I don´t need a " pop of color "along with this skirt, the skirt plays the main role here.

Living up here in the north, means wearing a coat most part of the year, and as I like longer coats, I don´t have to wear a skirt going downtown. This possibly explains, why I only have one of them.

What I lack, is a black jacket suit, gray would be fine too. My previous one lasted for years, and finally ended up in the secondhand shop.

My lifestyle favors pants in some form; jeans or cargos, which can be washed at home, when needed.

What about you?

What kind of clothes do you use most?

DIVERSE / Glasses

2011-10-28T14:02:00.005+03:00

My glasses. The newer ones ( three years old ), the ones I wear less.

I should make an appointment to the ophthalmologist quite soon.

My need for reading glasses started somewhere between 40-50 of age. Years passed, and now I am forced to use them all the time.

I have always chosen frames from Alain Mikli´s collection, as are the ones shown above.

I like the lilac on the frames, and if I have to have some " pop out " color in my belongings, lilac might be the one.

Some days I use my contact lenses, especially on special events. I could wear them more often, but I am too lazy to place them on. I really would need a good magnifying mirror to do the job properly.

Needing glasses, is a reminder of aging. In my case, I believe it was the very first sign.

It is ok to " hide " behind sunglasses, but when I need the glasses all the time, I don´t feel quite ok. I am only used to them.

Please share your thoughts about glasses. When did you start needing them? What about those of you, who have worn glasses all your life?

Wishing you all a nice weekend : )

THOUGHTS 65 / Downshifting on luxury items

2011-10-27T15:40:00.009+03:00

I did not come home yesterday empty handed. I bought a book, and then I bought this purse.

But I spent no "new " money, as I sold my previous cosmetic bag, and in return could afford the new purchases.

This black velvet purse can be used as an evening purse, or as in my case, as a cosmetic purse.

Great!

This purse and also my previous eyeglasses/ cellphone purse ( also black velvet ) are both designed by Vuokko Nurmesniemi.

Vuokko Nurmesniemi is an interior decorator and a ceramist, The Grand Old Lady of design in Finland. Maybe some of you might have heard about her and her husband, Antti Nurmesniemi, also a internationally famous interior designer, especially celebrated in the 60´s.

There is a small label inside the bag with " VUOKKO ", registered trademark.

Labels, like the one in my new purse, delight me.

Buying something, anything, I now seem to pay attention to the small ( significant ) details.

I wish to place my money on good quality, of which the label should carry responsibility, but I don´t want to promote a brand, by carrying only recognizable label stuff.

Trying to learn downshifting, this purse is one of my first attempts. It reminds me of the leather one I had, only the shape, the material, a n d the price is different.

Once again, favoring something " special ", made here, in my own country, makes me feel happy and delighted.

What do you feel about downshifting?

If so: How does it show in your everyday life?

FASHION / Shawl 1

2011-10-25T16:08:00.010+03:00

I found this light cashmere/modal scarf from my favorite shop a couple of days ago. It is made in Italy.

The " patched " black balls on it, make it a bit different in design. An easy accessory to be worn year around, to create some change on the simple clothes I now have left.

I prefer soft, generous shawls to silk scarves, which just don´t stay in place on me.

With everything going on in the world economics right now, I too must take a hold of my consumption and concentrate only on things of good quality, things, which satisfy my needs and give me joy.

Knowing myself, I should avoid all shops, as much as possible ; )

I won´t stop consuming for good. Right now, I have something planned, and in order to be able to afford it, radical changes in my everyday use of money, are necessary.

Meanwhile, I will play with my new shawl for quite some time now.

What about you? Are you planning to save for something special, or are you satisfied with your life as it is; perhaps buying something less expensive every now and then?

INTERIOR DESIGN / Detailing at downtown

2011-10-23T20:52:00.025+03:00

My firstborn daughter, Dr.M, was willing to show us some details of her downtown apartment. Her home has previously been presented in May 2010, on this same blog.

This time, the focus is on details. Having lived in the apartment 2 1/2 years, things have slightly changed their place, some pieces have been set aside, some have found a new place elsewhere in the apartment. There are also new ( old ) pieces found at local downtown flea markets (!).

Dr.M wishes her interior to match functionalism, the era, the house actually was built in. Yet, there is a strong breeze of modern interior design.

( 1. ) The view, from the front door reveals a large mirror, which enlarges the hall; the study.

Philippe Starck´s Bubu chairs are practical in this apartment too!

( 2. ) Dr.M now has two similar Pilaster bookshelves, one in the living room, the other in the hall/ study. In the rear, the bedroom.

( 3. ) A cupboard full of Finnish stainless steel pans, most of them by Timo Sarpaneva ( for OPA ). All of them are collected from various places here in Finland; one inherited, some from flea markets. The newer pans are from Iittala.

( 4. ) A collection of stainless steel bowls. All in mint condition, all by Timo Sarpaneva, all found from different flea markets.

( 5. ) Last week Dr. M was lucky to find something, she had wished for for a long time, a white book cart, 28€´s from Fida flea market!! Far in the rear, the living room.

( 6. ) The view to the living room. Once again, something by Timo Sarpaneva on the Italian glass table. A white flower pot, designed for Rosenthal company.

( 7. ) A view to the bedroom, showing a glimpse of the great-grandmother´s chest of drawers ( painted white ).

( 8., 9. ) Two pictures from the bedroom; night/day. The bedlinen by Eero Aarnio, featuring his famous " Pony " theme.

On the wall, a Finnish painting from 1994, also found at Fida mission flea market. The wall behind, has newly been painted gray.

( 9. ) Last, Dr.M herself ( beside an Atollo lamp by Vico Magistretti, 1977 ), on her way to a party, in a LBD, she designed herself!

I wish to express my Thank You to M for her cooperation, and her willingness to open her door to her stylish home: )/m

HOME / New cups on demand

2011-10-21T13:18:00.010+03:00

Our new cups for tea, coffee, for everyday use, designed by Jonas Wagell for: muuto.

The name, muuto, comes from a Finnish word, muutos; a change.

muuto is a Danish company, with the mission to bring new, Scandinavian design views out in the open. muuto´s mission is, to lift Scandinavia back to where it once was, back to it´s glory period, back to a famous design center of the world.

muuto represents modern, Scandinavian design as it´s best. muuto brings new visions for functional, everyday objects.

I got the mission to buy new cups, on demand of my husband, who got tired of our perfectly fine previous cups, because they got knocked down too easily.

As we drink our coffee and tea in the morning in our bedroom, spilling the hot water on the bed happened weekly.

These cups are Bulky ( which is their name ), and sturdy enough.

I bought six white cups. The cups are available also in light gray and bright yellow. Maybe I will buy a set of two in gray as an addition ; )

I like the functionality of the cups and wish to support new, modern design, especially when it is Scandinavian.

Wishing you all a nice start for the weekend : ) /m

DIVERSE / Open Forum

2011-10-20T15:00:00.003+03:00

This is my second Open Forum post.

Every month, around the 15th Thursday, here is an opportunity for e v e r y o n e to write about a topic I take the liberty to choose.

I´d wish this post to be an interactive one, where everyone can comment on everyone´s comment ( not only mine ). I´d wish this Forum to be a place where we could " talk " together.

This month I chose: Pets. Our furry companions.

Just look at Morty! Isn´t he just adorable. How could one not like him?

As you all know, we have animals at our place. Living with animals, has become our lifestyle.

We have had several horses, cats, bunnies, birds, fish, and dogs during our soon 38 of life together ( my husband and me ).

As you know, we lost our loved Golden horse last summer. She was 24 years old, and we had enjoyed her company from a foal. She gave birth to a foal of her own too, so her life really had a meaning.

We miss her so much.

What I have not been able to tell you all before, is that Boris is no longer with us.

His loss was expected, yet sudden and all too personal to be told earlier.

Thinking about Boris, I came to the conclusion, that I have to share the loss with you all.

I owe Boris so much.

He was the one, who got me moving at a time in my life, when I was low and depressed.

We walked, and walked, every single day, whatever the weather would be. Were it not for Boris, I would not be here, writing this post of mine.

Boris is deeply missed.

My mother once said, that animals are more important for me than people. I did not reply. We never got along together.

Animals are honest. I respect honesty. And I admit, that animals are of importance for my wellbeing.

I have a strong nurturing instinct, and having someone to care for, fills me with happiness.

But I am selective too. Some dogs, horses, bunnies get a hold of me deeper than others. I don´t know why.

I wrote in my profile, that I am attracted to flat-coated retrievers. I have been wondering about this, and came to the conclusion, that Morty ( a flat ) has qualities, I myself lack.

Having him beside me, I feel whole.

A dog is the man´s ( woman´s ) best friend, I know. So true. I don´t have to tell you.

So, this was my comment for starters. Now it is your turn.

Please share your thoughts about pets. Do you have one? Why, why not? What thoughts does the topic raise in you?

Please share : )!!

P.S. This Open Forum is open for comments and replies for one month. If you wish to share your ideas later, feel free to do so, thank you : )

FASHION / Shoes

2011-10-18T14:32:00.006+03:00

My new shoes. Simple black leather ballerinas with a suede + studs decoration by Tod´s.

I had Chanel ballerinas, but they proved to be just a bit too small, so I had to sell them, since I had worn them once.

It seems that French and Italian sizing is not comparable. Also the model plays a part in the size.

Actually I am pleased with the exchange. The Chanel´s were more expensive, but these have a rubber sole and please my eye more.

In the winter, I can wear these inside, and when the weather allows, outside.

The small decoration, the fringe or whatever it is, is cute but not over festive. To be worn with jeans, pants or with a dress ( skirt ). I have one ( ! ) skirt.

In my youth, women never wore boots inside. Probably the boots were designed differently, but I remember the small ceremony, which always took place in the cloakroom of a theater, etc.

I actually miss it.

Maybe I will take my new ballerinas along ( in a black silk bag ), next time I am going to the theater ; )

Do you change shoes when you come inside? Do you wear shoes when you are at home?

Here in Finland, we remove our shoes, when we come inside. When there is a party, people have their shoes on ;)!

P.S. I added a side view picture of the shoes for J.W.

THOUGHTS 64 / Thoughts about consumption

2011-10-17T13:01:00.008+03:00

This is the window of the jewelry shop, where I bought my first Tahiti pearl necklace some 10 years ago, using money, I had inherited from my father, who died in 1986. Lovely, symmetrical gray pearls.

When my first born was nearing her thirties, I gave the necklace to her. I knew she liked it, and wished her to have it as soon as possible.

I am hasty in that way too. I find it painful to keep the xmas presents waiting as well.

So, what has this story have to do with consumption?

In my opinion, jewelry ( but not just any piece of jewelry ) is one of the safest material things to invest in nowadays, when the economy of the whole world raises a big question mark.

That is, if you have the money. Most of us don´t. I don´t. Therefore, I do the wheeling and dealing with what I have, from time to time.

I realize, that in bad economical times, people are afraid to use money, afraid to buy expensive things. This is only natural.

Yet, people are urged to use their money.

But - please, buy good things, things of value, things that will keep their value, things with resale value - at least some of it.

Good, quality pearls are always good pearls, gold is gold, and a Chanel bag will always be worth a nice sum.

I have visited secondhand shops, only as a seller, and I have received a nice small sum of money for my stuff. Mainly, because the things I have sold are in good condition, they are stylish or classic, and they might be of some recognizable brand.

During those visits, I have seen people bringing in clothes in miserable condition, only to have them turned down.

These days - secondhand shops, thrift shops, and shops selling so called antique stuff are loaded.

I have heard, that antique shops, the ones, with average old things, have very little " traffic ".

Having visited some myself, I am not surprised at all.

These visits have convinced me not to buy anything antique per now.

Visiting average fashion shops, has convinced me to not buy anything " average " just now.

Buying something, anything, is really easy. To get rid of that something, that anything, is not at all easy, if not impossible.

Especially at times, like the ones, we are living through right now.

I have been writing about decluttering often. Maybe too often.

What I have left, is a very small wardrobe, a small jewelry box, and the essentials of tableware, household goods, and furniture.

After all, I only wear one pair of jeans at a time ( there is another pair );

I understand the desire to renew one´s wardrobe from time to time. When this happens, what better time to get rid of something you no longer don´t " need ", and fund part of your new purchase with the small " extra "!

It is no longer shameful to sell your good clothes onwards. I am not ashamed.

"Buy the best you can afford ", ( a quotation ), is something I try to follow.

How would you define yourself as a consumer?

Has the world´s economics changed your consumption habits?

P.S. I have written this post from the view of a woman of a certain age.

INTERIOR DESIGN / Cosmetic surgery & makeup

2011-10-15T08:29:00.014+03:00

I thought I´d show you the little something, I have occupied myself with this week.

This is our downstair´s shower room, which gets a l o t of use daily.

Considering, that it has been used over 16 years, with it´s original Ikea ( ! ) washbasin cabinet, and now with the same company´s Lack- shelf ( only a while ), it had survived pretty well.

After I got the shelf on the wall, my appetite grew, and I wished to repaint the cabinet, which originally only had a translucent white color on it, and which by now looked miserable.

So, after some white spray bottles, it now looks better ( imo ).

Then I decided to renew the white grout between the tiles. It had turned yellowish, gray and dirty during all these years, and after the process, it once again looks white and clean.

To top the ceremony, I placed a new ( inexpensive ) shower curtain.

And here; the four pictures show the result. P.S. The window is not dirty, there is fog outside.

I know, that this was just a little cosmetic something. I do have a whole new operation in my mind, but in the meanwhile, I just had to do " a little something ".

I have never done this grouting thing before, and so I just started the job without professional, proper preparations or anything. Some of you must know by now, that I make quick decisions, and I must have the work done quickly.

So this is, what I came up with. Everything is not perfectly painted/ fixed, but at least, everything " looks " cleaner and brighter ; ) And this was my main intention.

And I managed to keep the budget low ( we had the grout already ).

Wishing you all, once again: Have a refreshing weekend ! /m

P.S.S. The Open Forum conversation about " Blogs " closes today, so if anyone still has anything to add to my post on September 15, please feel free to share your comments!

HOME/ Dog essentials

2011-10-14T15:55:00.007+03:00

Are you having trouble with " sailing " dog bowls?

Our stainless steel dog bowls made an awful lot of noise and kept sliding across the room.

Then I met Lupita ( 1. ). A rubber based dog bowl, with a removable and naturally a dishwasher safe dog bowl by Alessi. The bone shaped handle is also removable. This bowl stays well in it´s place.

Yes, I know.

Nearly all my kitchenware is from Alessi, including the new dog bowls.

I really like the design ( funny ), and the functionality of Lupita.

And so does Morty ( 2. ).

When he is eating, he is totally concentrated, other times, not so much ; )

Btw, those of you who have dogs and cats, how often do you feed them?

At our place, the horses get their meal thrice, dogs twice :)

INTERIOR DESIGN / Detailing again

2011-10-13T15:42:00.008+03:00

Once again, posting on my special interest, detailing in interior design.

Yesterday, on my Hki day, I managed to squeeze time and snatch along this small white magazine table/bench for a " trial ".

I had seen it earlier in a window of one of the many shops, that sell stuff like this.

In general, I am not attracted to these " country style " pieces of furniture, but somehow I liked the lines of this small table and knew a perfect place for it in our house.

A small magazine table for the main entrance room; a small table to place the bag, gloves, a magazine.

This small piece does not actually take extra place, as it is partly behind the wicker chair.

It " melts " nicely in with the paneled white wall.

The magazine table is something not necessarily needed in our household, but I find it uniting the rest of the furniture together; detailing the main entrance room. It is definitely something for just this house, not a thing I would take along, if we decided to move somewhere else.

I will have time until Saturday to decide, if I want to keep it.

For those interested, the table is very affordable ; )

DIVERSE / Good as new

2011-10-12T09:22:00.003+03:00

This not an ad ; )

This is my soon three years old cellphone after spa. Yes, we have a mobile spa for Nokia phones over here. The Mobile Spa ; )

I dropped my phone on the cement floor at the stable, and the glass front got broken. So, on Monday I took it to get fixed, and it was decided to renew the covers too ( cosmetic surgery ). I managed to negotiate a new leather case for free, as the original case was long gone. Yesterday, it was already ready to be fetched.

Some of you might be surprised, why I bothered to pay for a full fix, when I could have bought a new phone for the same sum.

My cellphone was an expensive one, not in production anymore. It has all the yummies possible, of which I only use a fraction.

It is the e s t h e t i c s of the phone, which I appreciate. Sleek and simple, a sliding front panel.

I don´t like the shell designs at all.

This phone fits in my palm, pocket, handbag, and with the leather case, it does not easily slip from my grip.

Perfect.

Remember, this was not an ad ; )

What about you, do you get your phone fixed, or do you just buy a new one?

What are the things you appreciate and wish to have in your phone? How much are you willing to pay for your phone?

Is a cellphone only a means to reach someone, and to be reached, for you ?

If you have/had an expensive phone, do /would you handle it with special care?

DIVERSE / Features and facial expressions

2011-10-10T09:11:00.012+03:00

Both pictures show me. The first one about fifty years ago, the latter one was taken just last Saturday.

Not comparable, as one is a pencil sketch and the other taken by a digital camera. And then there is the 1/2 century in between.

The reason I chose to post about the topic, is that only last week, when I went to see our local doctor to have some blood tests taken, the first thing she asked me was : Why are you so sad?

I really was not surprised, as this was not the first time someone has said something like this to me. I have heard, that there is a deep sadness in my eyes, already when a child.

This made me think about features and facial expressions..

Do they really tell something about us ( reveal us )? Is a fierce looking person really fierce in behavior too?

What about all the smiling faces; are all those smiling really happy people by nature?

Does the life we have lived leave certain marks on our features, marks for everyone to see?

I admit being perhaps more serious- minded than one, who easily brakes into a laugh.

I see more of the real me in a picture, like the one above.

Forcing a smile on my face is bound to turn out odd in my case. I find it disturbing to be photographed. I don´t feel " pretty " enough, not " worthy " to be pictured.

Looking back, I admit having gone through hard times, from the very beginning of my life.

Has the past caused marks on my features, marks, which will stay on forever?

Life right now is satisfactory for me, there is no reason for me to be sad.

What thoughts does the topic; features and facial expressions bring to your mind?

Please share !

FASHION / Personal style in fashion

2011-10-07T13:28:00.011+03:00

I´d like to share ideas, about personal style in fashion, with you in this post!

So what is personal style?

I had to do some homework to find a shortish answer to this question. Google provided me with a simple one by wiseGeek:

"A person´s p e r s o n a l s t y l e is roughly equivalent to his/her fashion sense.

Some people are highly conscious of their personal style, which may be detailed and planned out, including certain brands, patterns and designers. Other people simply have an emergent personal style, which they may not be able to articulate, but which they subconsciously use to select clothing.

A person´s sense of style is often related to to his/her social groups, interests and age, and often to other individual factors as well.

Many people cannot verbally isolate their personal style without significant thought ".

Well said.

Personal style differs around the world, but on this post, I am narrowing it to the Western world.

Lots of people are not terribly interested in fashion. They wear clothes, which fit their interests. And that is quite ok.

Some of us spend our entire life ( or so it seems ) searching for " the perfect personal style ", never finding it completely.

Some of us " get it ", some not.

Most of us settle somewhere in the middle, where " quite ok " will do.

If, and when I am answering the question about my personal style, I admit mostly wearing clothes that fit my lifestyle, maybe even searching subconsciously for " the perfect thing ", yet mostly purchasing impulsively when I find something I like.

In general, I think that many of us ( including myself ), spend too much time, energy and money pondering on what we want, wishing to build a " capsule (?) wardrobe ".

In general, imo, whatever we wear, it is our personal style. Amen.

P.S. I like the dress in the picture. Unfortunately, it is not for me ; )

P.S.S. I wish to remind everuone, that there is still time to take part in the conversation about " Blogs ".

So anyone wishing to add something, not yet written, please go back to my post on September 15.2011 and feel free to express your thoughts. Thank you !

FASHION / Fall 2011

2011-10-06T14:50:00.013+03:00

Over a week ago, I bought the Italian Vogue, which consists of four different magazines, for a bit over 11€´s. Lots of pages.

I have now browsed through it twice, and pictured everything, which interested me.

Amazing, but I found only these five pictures:

( 1. ) A model from the 70´s, Barbara de Kwiatkowski.

What a beauty! Looking at this picture, it is hard to believe, that the photo is from 1970. It looks as if the picture was taken just yesterday. Not a `perfect´ beauty. Is there one?

( 2. ) A wonderful lava necklace. I could well imagine it worn by Barbara ( above ).

( 3. ) Classic Chanel ballerinas, Chanel fabric paired with leather.

( 4. ) A bag by Mauro Governa. I like the color and the simplicity of it. Just perfect.

( 5. ) Naturally I chose a crocodile bag too. This time a green one, also simple in design.

These were my picks. Not much, considering that I had four magazines to choose from.

Lots of haute couture, jewelry and shoes impossible for everyday wear.

As I have told before, I occasionally buy fashion magazines.

Mainly out of vanity, partly to see what´s happening. Third, I like to choose my favorites and post on them.

Do you buy fashion magazines for yourself? If you do, why?

If not, why?

DIVERSE / The keys to happiness

2011-10-04T14:21:00.008+03:00

These are our keys.

Car keys, home, mailbox, grand piano, stable, Dr.M´s extra and the trailer´s keys. All placed in a row, ready to be snatched along, when needed.

But this time I am not posting about the keys above. I wish to write about things ( keys ) that are important to me, things that make me happy, things that make my life feel good.

After a weekend full of not so happy things, I wish to examine the bright side of my life.

The most important thing to me, is /would be to take good care of myself. Psychologically and physically. I´d say, that this is/should be the most important thing for everyone of us.

So the first key is the key of health.

After health comes a bit of wealth ( mark ! a bit ).

With these two keys, I can achieve and do other things that add to my happiness.

An important key for me is the privilege to use my nurturing instinct. First and most importantly as a mother. Later on, by taking care of my " extended furry family ".

Being able to work ( which needs physical and mental health ) is also a key to happiness.

Happiness is interaction with other people. I need people. Alone, I could not survive.

I have had the privilege to share a 38 year relationship with my husband. Clearly this has added to my happiness.

My last key would be some good luck. We all need it.

No explanations needed.

I wrote my key list spontaneously. Surely later on I could add more keys, change the order of them..

I´d be interested to read your list.

So I am asking - those of you who wish - please share your keys of happiness.

What things make you happy ?

HOME / Hampel´s Spa Day

2011-10-03T14:35:00.009+03:00

Sunday was Hampel´s spa day.

This meant, that I washed him thoroughly ( including the intimate parts ).

In order to do the whole thing properly, Hampel being a gelding, he needs a certain type of sedation.

It takes normally an hour or so, for the drug to work, so I took his picture before the spa operation ( 1. ).

My hb helped, by standing beside Hampel, and the washing was accomplished quite easily.

Since the drug had not worked properly yet, he got to rest for a while in his box.

Now comes the drama part.

So I went to get Hampel back to the " bathroom ", but there was no sight of Hampel!

No wonder, as he had passed out!

The horse lay on the floor of the box, and when I called his name, he tried to get up, but could not make it.

Never before have I seen a horse in such a condition. He made several efforts trying to get up, and for short times stood on his wobbly legs. We knew, that it would be dangerous to go inside the box, as we might have been crushed, had he fallen over us.

By this time, I was calling our family vet.. Hampel has never reacted this way towards the sedation and we were puzzled.

Finally he was on his four feet, and with the aid of Dr. M, I managed to do the " intimate " washing.

Oh yes, Hampel was ready for it then ; ) and so the whole washing operation was completed, Hampel rugged warmly, and lead back to his own box.

It has been raining all day today ( Monday ), no sunshine.

How misfortunate for taking good pictures, as there really is a significant change in a washed horse, which I would have liked to show you ( ;

( 2. ) Hampel having a drink of water outside the stable, and lingering beside the paddock ( 3. ).

I´m so happy to report, that after Hampel got yesterday´s drug out of his system, he seems to be quite ok.

Sometimes things like this just happen, and Hampel did not get even one wound : )

DIVERSE / Saturday surprise

2011-10-02T09:00:00.011+03:00

This is an extra post.

I had a meeting at downtown Hki yesterday, and wandered in some shops, as I had arrived in advance.

By the way: I did not buy anything!!!

Suddenly I noticed this wallet ( 1. ).

It is a new product from a Swedish brand, Ordning & Reda ( 2. ), cheap stuff for home offices, including diaries, i-pod cases .. and wallets!

Picture ( 1. ) shows one of their fake leather wallets, c. 42 €´s, which is an EXACT copy of my " Chanel original wallet " ( 3. )!!! Sorry for the blurry picture of the original.

I looked inside the wallet too, and the inside of it looked just like " the original´s " inside.

This time I actually got so mad, that I went straight to the secondhand shop and left " my original " for sale. It was decided to put on sale - for more than 42€´s ; )

I have no regrets, I just don´t want to have something new, that has had a copy made already in two months.

I took my r e a l crocodile YSL wallet out of it´s dust bag, polished it quickly and it is and feels again good as new.

OMG, what an experience!

This Sunday morning we had frost on the ground for the first time this autumn!

I will wash Hampel later in the afternoon, so the pictures will be seen tomorrow.

Till ´ then, have a nice Sunday!/m

P.S. I have no idea, why my " Mushroom " picture got a " warning mark ". Trying to remove the picture, the whole text was erased away as well.

I apologize for my poor technical skills. Just wondering why the picture was removed in the first place..

Does anyone have an idea?

DIVERSE / Sunday plans

2011-09-30T07:49:00.010+03:00

Pictures 2. and 3. are not linked to picture 1.

No, Hampel has had nothing to do with the marks on the bumper of my car. I have backed my car twice towards something, all by myself.

I remember only the first ( 3. ) scratch.

Dr. M and I went to a store that sells horse supplies. Parking the car on the empty yard, I managed to find the o n l y visible hinder - a large stone - and backed the car straight against it. Brrr.

I have no idea how and where the hole ( 2. ) came from this summer!

Well, luckily these damages can be fixed, though with a lot of euros.

Hampel ( 2. ) is going to have a spa on Sunday.

I´m planning to wash him thoroughly. The summer fur has grown out, and he is growing fast a thick, black winter coat.

The weather is still quite warm, so now is the proper time to do the washing.

Today I´m having my treat - the hairdresser. I´ll run a quick errand to town and start my weekend peacefully.

We have to take down the poles and electric cords from the pastures, as the fields have to be plowed, so - don´t fear, we are not going to be lazy around here ; )

I will post a before, and an after picture of Hampel on his spa day later on.

In the meanwhile : Have an enjoyable weekend!!/m

INTERIOR DESIGN / Storage shelves

2011-09-29T13:27:00.011+03:00

In an old house, like ours, there is never enough storage place. Not even for the very essentials, not without adding something yourself.

What you see here, are three Ikea " Lack " shelves placed on top of the windows ( 1. , 2. ) in the downstairs shower room, and ( 3. , 4. ) in the mudroom.

The shelves are set quite high, but we are all tall people, so they are " just " reachable for us.

In the mudroom this is important. Shoes left lower, get carried around and out by - you - know -who..

Last week I finally got the shelf for the shower room set up ( having waited for it to happen half a year ).

Now I have place for small towels, hair-dryer and some personal stuff.

In general, I am not thrilled by Ikea products, but the " Lack " shelf is a brilliant design.

I find going to Ikea difficult; I get anxious in an unpleasant way, as the place is full of stuff and people. Once inside, you have to go through the whole store to get outside.

I know, that though many share my experience, Ikea is very popular around the world.

It has affordable, modern furniture and trendy interior decoration stuff.

Much of Ikea´s products are Ikea originals, designed just for Ikea, but then there are lots of familiar look- a -likes too.

I guess that this is, what disturbs me about Ikea, or any other company as well.

I want to place my money on " original " products.

What about you?

DIVERSE / Splurging 2

2011-09-28T08:54:00.011+03:00

A week has passed. A week keeping count of personal splurging.

Time for doing some inventory.

The past week has not been a typical week for me. Unfortunately in average, I do splurge more on my personal purchases. This week I tried to be extra careful. I could easily add a 100€ for a week, which would increase my total splurging to 400€´s a month. This sum may include something for home, our furry ones, gifts..

But, for the records:

Wednesday: 32.60€

Thursday:2€

Friday:-

Saturday:18.30€

Sunday:0€

Monday:11,90€

Tuesday:0€

Total: 64,80€ x 4 = 259,20€ ! ( + the extra 400€ )= approx. 660,00€ a month.

Well, well.

This is pretty much. I realize it now.

What to do?

1. I should use less money for parking. This means, that I should cut using my car or find cheaper places for parking the car.

2. I should find cheaper places for drinking my coffee, or quit going for a coffee completely.

3. I should save the extra 400€/month.

Number 3. is a difficult one, as I really need to go to the hairdressers twice ( 30€x2 )/month. I also need to buy creams for my face ( every 3 months ). I use expensive products (;

I also feel that I simply " must " be able to afford an " extempore " purchase, when I see something special.

Usually that purchase goes over my budget, and so I have to take plan B to action; the wheeling and dealing.

Living under a strict budget can be fun or dull.

For me, a short time would be fun, but dull, if it would last forever.

Maybe the excitement of " living on the edge " gives me kicks of some sort. Why else would I free willingly choose to lead a life like such!

Now, if you wish - please share your splurge week. Did it surprise you in any way? Do you have plans to change your shopping habits in any ways?

HOME/ Morty 2

2011-09-25T14:11:00.009+03:00

Morty after the trimming.

Isn´t he just adorable :)!!!

We made a three hour trip on Saturday, and came home feeling very, very happy.

The trimmer ( Barbara ), is a nice new acquaintance for us, and she did the job perfectly, filling all my small special wishes.

Morty behaved very well.

These pictures are taken right after we came home.

The sun was shining yesterday.

Have a nice Sunday!

HOME/ Morty 1

2011-09-23T07:59:00.009+03:00

This is Morty last Sunday.

Tomorrow we are going to see the trimmer ( I hope there will be no changes in schedules ).

I have already done some work on Morty in beforehand.

This fall he has had a disturbing, itching skin infection, which has been medicated with two types of antibiotics and frequent washes and now - finally the white ( black dogs and black horses both have white skin color ) skin looks pretty healthy.

So we are off to see a woman, who " fixes " flats for dog shows. Our first date with her.

Very exciting for Morty, as he gets to see some fellow chaps too.

I am ready to have Morty trimmed properly, as a shorter fur coat will let the skin " breathe " better.

Actually flats get only their ears, chest, toes and tail trimmed. Not much, but the job is a bit difficult, as the breed is a lively one. Too much of that famous ADHD.

I will need to get the proper scissors for myself too, so that in the future, I´ll manage to do the trimming myself.

I hope to post an " after " picture of Morty tomorrow or on Sunday.

Oh, my yesterday´s splurge was an ice cream cone 2€, while waiting for Dr.M in the car at the bus stop. She came over for riding.

So, total for Thursday = 2€.

P.S. Please send your comments about your feelings towards blogs in general. Those of you, who wish to report on your splurges during this week, keep them coming.

P.S.S. In the meanwhile: Have a lovely, refreshing start for your weekend!!!/m

DIVERSE / Splurging 1

2011-09-22T10:22:00.005+03:00

This picture, taken a week ago from our balcony, has nothing to do with the topic of my post today: Splurging.

I thought that it would be fun to know, and actually realize, how much money we spend on our selves - lets say, in a week!

I don´t mean, that we would be counting, what we spend on food for the whole family, pets, household necessities, etc.

Naturally this is all voluntary for you, but it could give a picture, how much money women use money for their personal small or big purchases. It could also give a small view, how much living costs in different parts of the world.

One week is a short period, I am aware of that. But keeping diary of expenses in a blog like this for a longer time, would be boring.

So, those of you who wish, would you be willing to report daily - on my blog - how much and on what you spend on each day???

I will start, with a retro-view on yesterday, Wednesday ( you all can start from yesterday ).

Wednesday is my Hki day.

I ate a late lunch 12,80 € at Cafe Aalto and bought a very thick Italian Vogue Special magazine 11,80€ ( a real heavy one ), my parking tickets added up to 8€. Total: 32,60€ !! OMG!

I took my clothes bag to the secondhand shop and managed to even up the sum spent on the Tod´s shoes.

So, first day 32,60€.

What about you?

Thanking you all in advance/m

FASHION / Classic shoes

2011-09-20T11:29:00.014+03:00

Could there be a more classic pair of shoes than these Tod´s shiny leather loafers?

Probably not.

But finding a pair, that fits like gloves on your hands, is difficult - at least for me.

Usually shoes like these are too wide, and they look huge on me.

Tod´s had the suitable model, and I once again happened to notice it. Naturally I had no intention of buying shoes, but once I put this pair on, I knew that they were mine.

Now, this means that I will have to sell some of my older shoes onwards. I know, which ones will be removed from my closet. Shoes, which are not comfortable for me to wear, three pairs, will have to go.

I´m off to Hki tomorrow ;).

Just for records, I only have half a dozen of shoes, boots included. I did not count in my riding+ rubber boots. I have three bags.

How many pairs of shoes and bags do you have? Do you wear/ use them all? Could you manage with less?

P.S. If you have something burdening your mind, or if you wish to reply on some of the comments on " Open Forum " about blogs, feel free to do so :)!!

HOME / The sauna in fall

2011-09-19T17:07:00.015+03:00

This is Hagalund´s sauna in the fall ( 1 ). You have seen it from the outside at winter time.

Today, I decided to give the cabin a clean-up and take some interior pictures.

There is no electricity, and the water must be carried inside in buckets during the winter months.

( 2. ) This is how our sauna looks from the inside. I could not catch the sauna stove nor the boiler in the same picture, I had so many pictures to choose from. The view is taken from the door, and shows the benches. Every now and then - when it gets too hot - we move to the balcony and then inside again. The traditional sauna ( as ours ) has no separate place for bathing.

( 3. ) A view from the door to the sauna´s other room; a room to change clothes, a place to rest after the sauna bath, especially during cooler times of the year.

Traditionally, the sauna room has been used as a guest room during summertime.

We have used pieces of our older furniture here. The bed seen, is from my husband´s childhood home.

( 4. ) The window facing south, above the bed, shows one of our paddocks.

( 5. ) We decided to place our Mulberry armchair in the sauna room. I went through a Mulberry phase, so we had lots of Mulberry checked things around our house.

When this crazy phase was almost over, the sauna room seemed to be a good place for the armchair. I had earlier ordered many meters of the checked Mulberry fabric, so the bed was covered with the same cloth too.

One of our Antonio Citterio´s tea wagons ( a green one ) found its place here.

All the lamps are oil lamps and the radio works with batteries.

Our sauna was built in northern Finland. The logs were then transferred down south to Sipoo, and the sauna was once again set up on it´s well chosen place. We had an architect draw the pictures for our sauna, so my husband got to express all his wishes.

In the end, the sauna turned out perfect, it looks like it has been on it´s place forever.

ART / Glass sculpture

2011-09-17T11:47:00.005+03:00

Entrance.

" The beginning. A step into the unknown, into adventure, into surprising new worlds".

I needed this glass sculpture right now.

This is the third for my collection of minisculptures by Bertil Vallien.

The third and the last for now.. I feel content.

The three glass sculptures are in our mudroom, the B- entrance, by the way.

How convenient, as the name for this sculpture is: Entrance.

Lots of things have happened during the recent past.

It is time for a new beginning.

I am grateful for the past, yet so anxious to step into the future, into surprising new worlds!

I am wishing you all a happy weekend!

I thank for following and visiting my blog, especially those of you, who left comments on my Open Forum post.

You can continue sending your posts, comments and replies. I wish we could really " talk together ".

Please don´t hesitate to send your messages. The blogosphere is connecting us. It is an adventure!/m

DIVERSE/ Open Forum

2011-09-15T13:18:00.013+03:00

The picture above is somehow connected with the subject of my post today.

It is a plate/sheet, trash/junk sculpture by a controversial Finnish artist, Miina Äkkijyrkkä.

She is fascinated about cows, had them even herself for a long time, not sure of the situation right now.

I managed the snatch this picture yesterday, driving to Helsinki from the east.

I got an idea, and now I have a suggestion. One, that I am willing to experiment on my blog once a month on Thursdays, around the 15th.

I am throwing the ball your way!!!!

I know, that there are many reasons, why many of us don´t keep a blog. There are many, who comment daily, and I have noticed, that so many not only comment on the subject; so many share their personal view also.

So, now I am offering a forum for everyone to write on my blog once a month on Thursdays!!!

Everyone may comment on the posts written by you, and you may comment on any of the comments written.

To keep the writing under some kind of control, I could ( if it is ok with you ), choose the subject for these monthly " Open Forums ".

Those of you, who already write a blog, are welcome to join in.

The very first topic is " Blogs ".

How do you feel about them? What kind of blogs do you like to follow and why?

Is there something " bugging " you about them? Is there something specific why you like them?

These are just some suggestions.. Please use your imagination and p l e a s e share your thoughts.

Now, for starters, I volunteer to begin.

About Blogs.

In general, I like reading blogs. But then there are many things that bother me. I will only take two examples:

1.) I like to see my followers, but I don´t want to see the n u m b e r of the followers.

I am grateful for everyone who has signed in as my follower, but I don´t wish to boast about the amount of followers. I know, that removing the number is a technical issue, but then I would have to change the outlook of my blog ( which I would not want to do at this point ), so actually this problem is for me to deal with.

2.) Some blogs have a " live traffic feed ". Now this is something, I don´t like. This type of - I would call it spying- is going to lessen my visits to certain blogs. I would like to visit and hop around the blogosphere without " the big brother watching my movements".

So there. I just wrote what is on my mind today.

You don´t have to reply on my comment, you may, if you wish to.

Most of all, I would wish you all to write your own thoughts about the subject " Blogs ".

Thanking you in beforehand :)m

P.S. Due to different time zones, I am keeping the " Open Forum " open through Friday, September 16, 2011.

P.S.S. You can leave your comments here even later, if you feel like writing something.

FASHION, HOME / Keeping warm

2011-09-13T14:16:00.005+03:00

I decided to show you how I am prepared for the cold days on the countryside.

This is my Henri Lloyd down coat, which keeps me warm from late autumn until late spring.

This year the coat is starting it´s fourth or fifth season. A classic.

I like the HL coat, because it is practical and functional. There are pockets inside and outside, it has a hood ( never wear it, but it keeps my neck warm ). The coat can be worn loose or tightened from the waist.

I don´t need extra layers of clothes ( I hate layering ) under it, just my usual long sleeved T.

My everyday coat around this part of the world. I have even worn it when riding on cold weather.

With all the pockets, no bag is needed, if I have to stop at the groceries or run other errands.

This winter I will probably do more walking. I will only have to get " the perfect " shoes! Shoes in synchrony with the coat.

What do you wear when outside in the cooler or cold weather?

ART/ Glass sculptures

2011-09-12T17:29:00.009+03:00

Country living. "House and home, symbol of security and personal integrity. Man´s nest and innermost domain."

Design by Bertil Vallien for Kosta Boda, Sweden. One of a series of glass figures, shaped, polished and signed by the hands of skilled craftsmen.

So my husband bought me this - as a souvenir from Stockholm.

I had expressed my wish for one of the 16 belonging to the collection. He bought the house, which made me very happy.

Now what might this tell about the giver of the gift? I probably know.

What do you think?

I also know, that I have said that I don´t collect anything special.

However, this series of minisculptures is something I am interested about. It fills my criteria;).

The collecting might take years though, as we travel so little..

On a previous trip to Stockholm we bought the cat ( 2 ).

At the time we had a gray cat, just like the glass figure.

The cat, "a mouse-trap. Catcher of small things and keeper of wilful affection."

HOME/ Gone

2011-09-09T12:48:00.006+03:00

My Marlboro man is gone!

He took his Marlboro Classics bag and left early this morning .

Dr.M had bought flight tickets and made reservations for her father to his favorite hotel in the center of Stockholm, as a birthday gift. A gift only for him, a gift he could not refuse. So he is gone.

It´s been a few years since my hb last visited Stockholm. He had mentioned sometimes earlier, that he would like to have some time for himself. This gift was a perfect one. And a total surprise for him!

We have visited Stockholm several times together, so I know the places he is likely to visit.

Östermalm will most certainly be one of them.

Perhaps you have seen Östermalm in " The Sartorialist ". The man usually photographs in Södermalm and Östermalm, when in Sweden. Two places with totally opposite images, the latter being the " sophisticated " area, the former not so much..

So, Miss M. and I are having the house two days for ourselves.

Now, what shall we do with all the extra time???

Perhaps sleep till noon? No way. There are mouths to feed and the furry ones have to be cared for, and...

Life goes on :).

Wishing you all a happy start for the weekend!/m

FASHION / Cashmere

2011-09-08T13:56:00.004+03:00

My latest purchase, a v e r y soft, lightish gray 100% cashmere knitwear of fine quality, bought just yesterday.

An A-shaped sweater with a loose neckline, good with/without a necklace.

Somehow gray is the first color I associate with cashmere..

This cashmere knitwear was funded like nearly all my previous ones.

Once again, I went through all my clothes, and without sorrow, picked out everything I could live without.

I managed to gather a bagful of stuff, took it to the usual address, and received about half the sum for this new purchase.

This is my third sweater for this fall. I´m done.

What about you? What have you come up with, or are you still on the search?

HOME / Exercising

2011-09-06T13:30:00.004+03:00

There is one subject on the blogs ( I read ), which is not much written about.

Exercising.

How does a woman of a certain age exercise? Do we exercise, or is our exercise just walking from one shop to the other, or a quick walk around the block with the dog?

Do you exercise? What do you do?

Nowadays, my exercising is functional exercise throughout the day. This means walking to and fro around our grounds, doing the stable chores, grooming the furry ones, cleaning the house from top to bottom, raking and shoveling snow during the winter months. These days my riding is occasional.

When in town, I leave my car to the parking house, and walk the small distances from one place to another. I try to use the stairs and avoid the elevator.

Yes, I am aware that I should exercise more. I do feel guilty about it. Naturally I could give lots of explanations why I don´t exercise more, I bet we all have explanations.

I´d like to read your views on the subject. Do you exercise daily, weekly? Do you play tennis, golf or what?

HOME / My husband´s birthday is today!

2011-09-05T08:34:00.008+03:00

My husband has his birthday today. No big celebrations is his wish.

Yesterday Dr.M came over for coffee. She had her birthday on Saturday, so we actually were gathered to celebrate 3 birthdays: Miss M., Dr.M and my Husband.

It is a sunny day today, a lovely one.

What you see in the picture, is a coffee cup set, I bought for my husband 38 years ago as a birthday gift. I had known him only six days at the time. He had mentioned being interested in duck hunting and wandering in the woods, and then I suddenly remembered having seen a duck coffee cup at Stockmann´s, so I just "had " to buy it for him.

This cup was in daily use for years. Only later did I store it in the back of the shelf, and nowadays it is used on special occasions only; on my husband´s birthdays.

In the beginning, the duck hunting period was an important time for my husband.

Our first dog, Bobbie, a labrador, was chosen for just that reason, as retrievers are of great aid in the hunt.

Slowly, the interest in duck hunting has ceased, but the coffee cup and the retriever (s ) have stayed as a part of our life.

The coffee cup got me inspired.

Since there was white, brown and light blue on the cup, these colors got to be the main colors in our interior decoration. The light blue seemed perfect for curtains. In our fourth home, our first own house, I had light blue and pinkish curtains with narrow horizontal stripes, in every room downstairs. The model was by Marimekko ( maybe someone knows this Finnish brand ), the material 100% cotton and the curtains were of full length.

In the beginning, I tried to choose the colors for our home, taking in consideration the color of the fur coat of our dogs. Nowadays, I prefer many colors and oriental rugs, for just the same reason.

This morning, the duck cup was used once again.

I´m wishing my Husband a Happy Birthday, hoping he finds time to read my post :)!!