Gypsy Feet

Where have I been?

2011-03-25T16:28:00.000-06:00

I'm sure it's obvious by now that I'm not blessed with the ability to focus on too many things at once. I'm so easily distracted that for the last year I've had to force myself to focus purely on completing my education - and I have wanted to give up oh so many times!

Along with my feet, my mind is a gypsy, always wandering and seeking adventures. That's why The Gypsy Feet has been in hibernation this past year. It's a sorry excuse but it is true. The good news is that I graduate in June and I have a very good GPA to show for it! Thank heavens!

I will be back very soon but for now here's a picture I took in January when I was in dire need of a creative outlet - because being a graphic design student and working as a tshirt designer isn't creative outlet enough! Honestly, I just needed a reason to get out of my jammies... online school is hard, okay?!

Every day this past year I've thrown myself into assignments and deadlines to keep myself from dwelling on thoughts like "Formal education is not natural (for me). I am not meant for this!" It's beyond me how 17 year olds are expected to choose what to be for the rest of their lives!

But enough about me, how are YOU? What did you want to be when you grew up, and are you it now?

Where is the love?

2010-07-24T14:03:00.000-06:00

Taking a break from playing at the park in sunny San Diego, mom 
decides to get creative with the wood chips that cover the ground. 
There is no shortage of love in this sweet family. 

--- Chelsea B

Goodbye my lover. Goodbye my friend. You have been the one. You have been the one for me.

2010-07-06T08:49:00.000-06:00

And there it goes... goodbye summer! Goodbye freedom! I got 2 very much needed weeks off school for summer. The Mister had 4. He needed them more and man, oh man am I sad to see them go. The two main things we did to celebrate summer included spending a week up in Southern Oregon visiting family and gallivanting, and going to see Lost Boys in Santa Cruz (where the above picture was taken.) Other than that we lazed around in our underwear, bbq'd, watched a lot of tv and ate a lot of popcorn. I'm sad to see it go... How long is it until Christmas?

Help me prolong my summer by sharing yours. What are your plans?

Send your gypsy feet pics to wandering_shoes@live.com

The Path

2010-06-30T00:58:00.001-06:00

Our lives are paved with paths like this. People come and go. They leave their mark. We travel forward and sometimes go back and revisit certain bricks wearing them down a little, giving them more character. At some points we linger and others we dash past. We try to remember some and to forget others. The bricks continue to be laid one by one. Names and messages. Forever and ever.

You can see some of our literal gypsying here.

Hello. My name is...

2010-06-27T17:36:00.000-06:00

I don't remember ever being so excited that all I could do was scream. This was a first for me. The shriek that came out my throat when I saw Paul Bunyan and Babe surprised me and scared hubster to death. If I've said it once I'll say it a hundred times more but seeing things is my favourite. I love it so much that I might list "seeing" as a hobby. I don't see how "seeing" is any less of a hobby than say, walking or running.

Hello. My name is Laura and I love to see stuff!

What have you seen recently?

Level up!

2010-06-05T20:41:00.000-06:00

You know those accomplishments that take you to different stages in your life? Things like, the first time you wear big kid underwear and kept it dry, the first time you rode a bike without stabilisers or swam without arm bands? Your first bra, your first pair of high heels, the first time you drive a car etc... ? Today I discovered that owning a barb-e-cue and being "allowed" to light it and own it and cook on it and everything involved with that makes me feel like I'm grown up. Never mind that I've been married for 6 years and we've been paying our own bills and just bought our first mattress (we moved up two levels in ONE week!) and stuff... We didn't need to ask for permission!

Today I've grown up... a little.
What an adventure!

The return of a wanderer...

2010-06-04T10:05:00.000-06:00

Johnshaven, Scotland
April 2010

Hello! It's been a long time and I have traveled maaaaany miles since I last posted here. Did you see my little video below? How are you? How have you been? Is it summer where you are? Do you have an adventure planned to celebrate the sunshine? I hope so and I hope you'll share them with us. Right now my big adventure involves algebra and techniques of supervision in an online school setting. Two more weeks until I get to wander again though and I.Can't.Wait! I'm going to try and post more often but whether or not I do is sort of part of the adventure, I think :)

Love,
Laura

Crazy Golf. It's just what it sounds like.

2010-03-29T05:05:00.000-06:00

I think life is like a game of crazy golf. Think about it. You'll agree.

Montrose, Scotland

2010-03-25T07:57:00.002-06:00

We want to see your town.

Tell us the best places to visit.
Summer's coming!!
wandering_shoes@live.com

Tiger Feet

2010-01-27T14:23:00.003-07:00

I'm not a fan of new year's resolutions because I never keep them. I actually read an article once that said that our birthday is a better time to make resolutions because it's a natural new year and we are more successful at keeping our resolutions. That's a little off topic. The gist of my current warble is a plea for forgiveness for neglecting Wednesdays, and I offer you this awesome Tiger, with her feet up watching heroes picture.

Because sometimes the only way to get over sadness is to watch heroes and dress up like a tiger.

Speaking of TV programmes, I just watched Ugly Betty from two weeks ago and it was actually all about Betty starting a blog, and her first entry was one all about inspirational feet. I loved it, it reminded me of the amazing gypsies we have posting and reading here... you are all so amazing and inspirational without intentionally seeking it.

Thank you gypsies. xxxxxxxxxxxx

Love-i.

2010-01-18T15:55:00.000-07:00

Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in Haiti and their loved ones.

This odd angled photo was taken by me of my feet in an empty kid's pool
on the roof in Petionville Haiti. I did eventually get water in it and
spent many happy hours sitting there in the heat. By the way, my Mom,
has always had the nick name "Gypsy Feet" since we were kids because
she was never home when we called. Thanks for the cheerful site.

Patty K

Brrr! It's cold in here...

2010-01-13T20:57:00.001-07:00

Sometimes all you need to do

Is pull on a pair of sturdy boots

Strap yourself in

(preferably with a nice belt)

Hold on

And you can conquer the world.

Winter Hint: Don't pack away your dresses

Just because of the arctic chill.

Tights, leggings - they really do help.

[Trust me.]

Don't let the cold steal away your secret weapon.

-Christiana

In India ah.

2010-01-11T17:23:00.000-07:00

Here's one of the people who knew me when I was very young and I'm sure she has some stories that she'll keep to herself...

I love this picture, taken at the very start of a very special holiday. A visit to India to attend my big sisters wedding blessing. These shoes have seen some action and heard an immense amount of laughter. My daughter's beach feet, with a gypsy twist.

(Is that a bra on the floor, Fiona?)

well, now i'm just showing off. Not my beautifully pedicured toenails, that's for sure. Alas, if someone approached me with a pumice stone and a pair of nailclippers - I may kill! No no, my gorgeous Olympus underwater camera. Taken at the bottom of our hotel pool in Goa where my daughter had HOURS of fun (and I had hours of peace). Amazing holiday, gorgeous daughter, beautiful country, shoddy toenail polish. oh well.

-Fee

Climb every mountain...

2010-01-07T20:38:00.000-07:00

This is my daughter Jillian's feet and mine. We had just spent 14 hours climbing MT St Helens. It was a wonderful adventure, but painful. Within a week I had black toenails which took a year to look normal again.

-Susan

A look at her world...

2010-01-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

Whilst I'm getting used to my new adventure of online education I'll be depending on our followers to keep sending in tokens of adventures for me to post until I get my routine worked out. Keep 'em comin'!

it's the new year.
make it better.
be bold.
don't be afraid of being different.

love,
j.peri

Get Fresh...

2010-01-04T14:26:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year everyone! I wanted to start this years posts off by inspiring you to set goals. Have you ever run a marathon? Sara has. The wonderful thing about this is that the money raised goes towards helping children who might never have had the chance to have adventures! That's what The Gypsy Feet is all about...

Running last year's New York City Half-Marathon was one of the biggest achievements I did last year..especially because it was for a good cause. We helped to raise over $90,000 for the Fresh Air Fund which provides summer adventures in the country for inner city children. Urban kids are sent to either home-stay programs or to one of 5 Fresh Air Camps where they can swim, run, and play in the heart of mother nature. It is an unforgettable experience for all those who participate.

Please help the Fresh Air Fund this March 21st by either running in the 1/2 marathon or contributing as a sponsor. It is an incredible experience. For more information visit: http://freshairholiday.org/

-Sara

A year of adventuring:

2009-12-31T14:27:00.000-07:00

January: Vikki shared her hobby with us, I went on my honeymoon 5 years after getting married and introduced you to various family members

February: Cjane introduced a lot of you to us and then you became gypsies. Liam showed us Fiji and shared a secret, Megan and I had a tea party and she shared some wisdom, Vikki played in the snow

March: Blue Lily was our guest and we started our photography challenges. Megan started her photo tributes and introduced us to loved ones, life was changing for me

April: Naomi of The Rockstar Diaries was our guest and I explained how The Gypsy Feet isn't about foot fetishes but adventures and my little sister shared a picture of her baby with 6 toes on one foot, Megan reminded us to believe and Vikki revisted her childhood

May: Xenia of Lime Crime makeup and Doe Deere Blogazine was our special guest. Megan shared her summer play list and Vikki went to an art gallery. I introduced you to my mum and we cheered someone up. We also had a foot hater share some thoughts.

June: Jasmine of Experiment in Poverty was a guest, Megan showed us how fun mum's can be, Liam showed us where he works and Brooke of Conversations with a Cupcake gave us a recipe

July: We were fascinated by the wagon masters boots, I had a Blue Lily adventure in Seattle, Vikki had computer trouble AND got engaged, J.Peri gave us some advice (and became one of my favourite bloggers), Megan enjoyed the journey

August: Things started getting quiet around here. Lindsay of Penguin Stand Alone showed us her skillz, I had the greatest road trip of my life during a very difficult summer, we met a princess and her guitar hero, Vikki made us drool and also taught us a lesson as did Katherine, Leigh and Sarah Nicole

September: Things got quieter still... Vikki went climbing (and might have inspired a Miley Cyrus song?) and got sick, I moved state, Megan and Vikki both inspired us, Lissa shared her love story

October: I met Lindsay of Penguin Stands Alone in person and now we're BFF's, Vikki introduced us to her DNA and went people watching, Carla showed us how she scoots, my big brother took us on a tour of our hometown

November: Gussy and Dionne were our special guests, Vikki reminded us to remember, I celebrated sisterhood and a birthday

December: Gussy came back and did a giveaway, my big brother and his girl friend visited me for Christmas, Vikki had a white Christmas, Rachel showed us some beauty, Megan told us a secret, we met a beard called Marcus.

What a great year. Thank you all for being a part of our journey. Keep an eye on us in 2010, there's going to be lots happening.

Here's to 2010 and fresh adventures!

We want to see all your adventures.
Send us your pictures and stories to:
wandering_shoes@live.com

Santa Cruz, you're not that far...

2009-12-29T19:20:00.002-07:00

Yesterday we had a great day in Santa Cruz even though the weather was drizzly and gloomy - felt like home to me. I can't wait to go back to the Santa Cruz boardwalk in the summertime. I'm sad it'll be without my big brother and his girlfriend but going with the husband will be fine ;)

After our gallivanting in Santa Cruz we had pizza for dinner then went to the cinema to see Sherlock Holmes. The perfect end to a fun day.

2009 Gypsy Feet.

2009-12-26T15:58:00.000-07:00

What a Christmas! I hope Santa is having a nice long lie in just like we did this morning. He deserves it! It's amazing to think of the distance we've come since last Christmas - The Gypsy Feet was just a baby, I was in Scotland...

Here's to another year of amazing growth and adventures. Make sure to include journalling your adventures in your New Years resolutions. They're very important.

Don't forget to share those special moments with us:
wandering_shoes@live.com

Happy (White) Christmas

2009-12-24T13:14:00.002-07:00

Have a brilliant holiday time. love love love xxx

What the Elf?!

2009-12-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

It only seemed appropriate to watch Elf the day I wore my yellow tights :)

Gone Green:

2009-12-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

I took this picture on purpose but I never thought it would be this beautiful. I haven't been many places but I'd put money on Yellowstone National Park being one of the most beautiful places on earth.

-Rachel

Show us the most beautiful picture you've taken.
wandering_shoes@live.com

The Secret:

2009-12-18T12:24:00.000-07:00

This picture is of the feet I used in high school. Heels gave me confidence I needed.

I was a comfortably dressed, happy girl until my boyfriend of three years suddenly broke up with me. Overnight I became a modest fashionista. I loved to shop. I loved to find clothes that fit well and complimented me. I’m pretty sure I was responsible for a large chunk of Kohl’s cleared sale items that winter; I changed my hair three times in the remainder of the school year; and best of all, the shoes multiplied: 10, 20, 30, 35 pairs.

It may seem like a vain preoccupation, but I prided myself in dressing smartly and to my body type rather than to the trends. I learned to love myself this way. And the shoe always made the outfit.

There’s something wonderful about the connection between shoes you wear and where your feet are taking you. My feet carried me to college, where many of the clad heels and bowed flats became secondhand to tennis shoes and lots of walking. Both styles fit my life in different ways.

The secret is to dress your feet well and let them carry you where they may.

-Megan

Where the Wild Cake is.

2009-12-16T16:58:00.002-07:00

I went to see Where the Wild Things are last night on a girl date with my friend Claire.

The last scene of the movie has a huge slab of chocolate cake, so it was only natural that afterwards we locate hot chocolate and a large slab of cake.

cake is what friends are for.

When I photographed the cake I tried to get as much of Claire's foot in the picture as possible. We have about 70% of her boot, but no foot. It was there though, I swear.

The best seat in the house...

2009-12-14T18:35:00.000-07:00

This time of year is so magical - was there a greater adventure ever than the birth of Christ? I think not.

I'm so excited to be "hosting" Christmas this year for my big brother and his girl friend. That's a first for me and I love it! There's a lot of fun to be had at this house :)

See the Gypsy Feet mission statement here.

Send us your adventures by emailing us: wandering_shoes@live.com

And the winner issssss...

2009-12-12T21:14:00.000-07:00

Comment #50...

Llamabean said...

"Love the bags, especially the gingham work bag on etsy.
Lovely stuff"

Maggie will contact you to work out your prize with you. Well done!

Thanks everyone for joining in. I'm hoping to have another giveaway soon - if you'd like me to host a giveaway for a product you have let me know :) This was fun.

Rufflelicious Giveaway!

2009-12-10T08:11:00.002-07:00

Remember this special guest?

Well, she's back! YES! The wonderful Gussy is offering one very lucky Gypsy Feet follower a $30 store credit to her online shop right on time for Christmas! All you have to do is leave a comment (a wonderful one!) on this post - make sure you have contact info on your blog profile or leave an email address in your comment otherwise I'll die and you'll not win a thing. No-one will and it'll be all your fault... *ahem*

How lovely would one of these be to take on your Gypsy Feet adventures?

If you're drooling over those you might want to enlist the help of Karma by following Gussy's blog, twitter and whilst you're at it follow The Gypsy Feet too. Go ahead and heart her shop as well ;)

Karma knows... Karma knows...

The winner will be chosen on Saturday.

Good luck and Happy Christmas!

(Whilst you're in the winning and commenting mood head over to Decclo for their first giveaway too!)

Go Beard Go.

2009-12-09T17:57:00.003-07:00

A while ago from now... let's say about three years. I told someone that they had no other friends but me and that I was their only real friend and that I was their super best friend. This of course was one of those lame, over confident, non-real jokes.

Little did I know that I would actually become super best friends with that person.

Late last night he informed me that three people had literally e-bullied him that day. So, being the Glaswegian that I am I set about the three of them in an electronic manner. This actually lasted most of the day, and I somewhat baffled them rather than fought with them. In my opinion I won because my objective was achieved.

Alas. This foot blog today is called an Ode to Marcus and his beard, which I defended.

In true gypsy feet fashion here are his feet:

And his beard:

The reason I have a photo of his naked foot is unknown to me. I think he took it himself in the summer when I was visiting Salt Lake for my friend Toni's wedding, who is also a friend of Marcus'.

I can tell you that that night, on that screen, behind his foot, we watched, sang to, and danced while watching Mama Mia. I'm not a huge abba fan, but that movie is awesome.

Give it away, give it away, give it away now...

2009-12-09T17:42:00.000-07:00

Hey Followers!

Tomorrow we're doing our first giveaway on The Gypsy Feet. It's going to be a quickie too so check back and spread the word! It's going to be GREAT!

Happy Christmastime to you!

-Laura

The adventurous lives of exchange students.

2009-12-08T15:18:00.000-07:00

When I saw this at the park it reminded me of my hometown and how it's twinned with Luzarches, France. How cool would it be to be the exchange student from Japan coming to California? Or from France to Scotland?

Have you ever had an exchange student live with you?

Were you the exchange student?

If you could be an exchange student where would you want to go?

Shake it!

2009-12-03T16:19:00.002-07:00

I'm in a rut so it's time to switch things up a bit.

I want to see pictures of the most beautiful things/places/faces you've ever had the chance to take pictures of. Send it to us at wandering_shoes@live.com and tell us how you ended up taking the picture.

These pictures were taken when I did this post.
The sparkle and glistening of the glass table top after the rain makes me feel so thirsty! The colours are so dreamy. The table top alone was almost celestial (like Edward's skin, no? haha!) and then...

a quick change of perspective makes a surprising difference. Lying under the glass table and looking up at the sky.

It's like the whole point of The Gypsy Feet: It's up to us how we look at the world. And it's up to us if we share it.

Have you ever accidentally captured something amazingly beautiful on camera?

Show us!

wandering_shoes@live.com

A letter to the passing season.

2009-12-02T15:56:00.002-07:00

Dear Autumn.

You come and go so quickly, and when you leave you only leave behind bitter cold and despair. You are wonderful at what you do. You make death and change into the prettiest most magnificent thing ever. I will see you next year.

Join hands and hearts and voices, voices, hearts and hands:

2009-12-01T16:57:00.000-07:00

We had a nice quiet Thanksgiving this year. We don't have space for left overs, nevermind counter space to actually make food - with two squares of counter one for the microwave and one for drying dishes, who's idea was that anyway?!

So instead of the traditional dinner that we didn't have space (or money) for we decided to treat ourselves to our favourite food. Indian. As with a normal Thanksgiving meal we were eating it for about three days after the big day. I know! It took up less space though.

Mr Laura got to spend a lot of time in his jammies and played games over the internet with family. I did my usual but enjoyed it more having my lover home.

How was your Thanksgiving?

Where did you go?
Was it lovely?

San Diego is for Lovers.

2009-11-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

Two people fell in love and took this picture in San Diego.

A year later there were three.

And they went back to that same spot and took the same picture. -Chelsea

Happy happy happy happy happy happy happy...

2009-11-19T08:01:00.003-07:00

... I'm so happy today.

That's the song that the clown from Liar Liar sings as a birthday song.

I'm a day late in my weekly post so that I can give a happy birthday feet blog post to our most awesome wonderful Gypsy Feet creator.

Laura. You are the awesome best. Yes.

Twenty five was (possibly) my best year. It's a good number.

Happy New Week to YOU!

2009-11-17T22:36:00.000-07:00

I knew this week was going to be good before it started. When packages and cards begin to arrive it means I'm about to age one year. That's usually good. This year I'm ready to hit that milestone number.

Our guest room is being cleaned up because it'll have it's first occupant this week so our Christmas boxes came out. The tree box was just sitting there... waiting... all alone - all alone because I already unpacked the Nativity scene. I had decided not to erect the tree until there was something to put under it but just couldn't resist the new enormous lights husband bought for it. He put the tree up this afternoon.

I love the end of the year! Why wait to be happy?!

My journey to 25.

2009-11-13T18:02:00.001-07:00

This little token makes me officially very close to ending my journey to 25.
That little blue sticker is my fave. It means it came from home.
I knew who it was from just by the handwriting even though I haven't seen it in years!
I think this is the first card he's ever sent me that our mum hasn't bought for him to sign.

I love you biggest brother. Thanks for remembering me :)

(Did mum tell you to send that?)

All Gussy'd up!

2009-11-12T08:14:00.001-07:00

Hey all! In my journey to support the little guy this holiday season I stumbled upon one of the friendliest and sweetest Etsians ever! Get to know her through this little post (and her twitter)- read on to the very end because she's got a special treat just for you! You're not going to be able to resist... I couldn't!

My name is Gussy and I sew ruffles. I started sewing one year ago and it's been a crazy love affair ever since. I had this wild thought one night. I'd like to learn how to sew. The next time my husband, Zack, and I visited my parents I asked if I could borrow their sewing machine. Little did I know I was about to have the time of my life.

I was supposed to bring the machine back on our next visit, which was a month later, but you know what? I kept it. I kept it and secretly hoped they would be OK with it.

And they were! {whew!}

Since the sewing machine was mine for a few more weeks I decided it was time to check out thirty books from the public library. I flipped through most of them, as if I knew what I was looking for. At the time I didn't, but I think deep down I was looking for myself. I spent countless nights learning how other women sew. After browsing the pages and watching many online tutorials, I had come up with a plan.

By the way, for all you curious readers out there, I really did check-out about thirty books from the library.

I began to sew. I tried to sew in a zipper without a zipper foot, and I did it! I had succeeded. I had found a way to sew that was most comfortable for me!

A few months went by and I decided my sewn items needed a name. I thought, I shall call you Gussy. {Because my mom calls me Gussy.} And so the Gussy brand was born, and I was happy.

Very happy :)

I started sewing a ruffle on everything I made. Soon enough all my items were named: Ruffle Gus, Charming Gus, Mini-Gus, Lovely Gus, and Shady Gus. I'm not afraid to admit there are even more items. But no need to sound absurd, right? :)

Then I thought, What if I do my ruffles like this? And, What if I sew it together this way? And then my ruffles became even more beautiful. It's true: I love my ruffles.

And again, I was happy.

I have a blog, Gussy has a lot to say, and it's only most-appropriate that I share my ruffles on there, right? I think so.

Do I have another job, you may be asking? I do. I work at a large advertising agency. I'm a proofreader by day, Gussy sewer-girl by night. I work a lot. I love my work. Gussy is the most fulfilling job I've had to-date. Granted I'm young... but it's the truth.

I believe it's because Gussy is me, and I am Gussy. I am the girl that loves to sew. Sewing is this new talent that I became incredibly comfortable with. It happened almost overnight. It's for sure, hands down, a God thing. He gave me this talent. I am so thankful.

Sewing has gotten me and my husband through many tough times: long stretches of unemployment, long stretches of being in a new city and state, long stretches of transition where I desperately need something familiar in my life.

Plop me in my sewing room with my sewing machine, my iron, and my radio-player, and I am ecstatic.

Life is about changes, and it is about doing daily what makes you the happiest. To me, life is about the journey and the feeling of hot fabric after a recent run-over of the iron. It's about hearing my sewing machine sing to me, it's about watching ruffles be completely themselves as I sew them onto fabric.

Here at Gypsy Feet, life is about where you wander to and the ruffles you thoroughly love while sewing along the way.

Get your own Gussy from her shop and type "Gussy15" in the message to seller box and she'll give you 15% off any one in-stock item!

Thanks for playing along Maggie, it's been a treat! - Laura

Remembrance

2009-11-11T17:03:00.003-07:00

In a few countries around the world 11th of November is a day to remember the end of World War one. It was the day that a ceasefire was announced and is commonly known as armistice day or remembrance day.

In the UK it is always publicised for weeks before, people show their support, appreciation and gratitude towards the service men and women that died fighting in that time. It has also come to be a day to remember all soldiers that have died in all wars.

To show support people wear poppies on their jackets because after World War One had ended the fields where several dead bodies fell and still lay grew poppies.

You seriously only have to watch 10 seconds of the ceremonies, united silences and services that were held today to feel emotion and instant gratitude for the lives lost.

This year is also the first year that there have been no survivors left to attend the services. The last three servicemen died earlier this year. Radiohead wrote a song to commemorate and remember the last World War Soldier alive called In Memory Of (Harry Patch).

11th of Novemeber is also pretty incredible because it's 11/11 and I love 11's.

So no feet today, just 11 of my very own shoes, with a single poppy.

What time is it? Girl TIME!!

2009-11-10T23:55:00.002-07:00

I'm so thankful for the good relationships that seem to just fall into my lap.

I'm thankful for:
The girls who will drive me places - like the showing of Top Gun and August Rush in the park.
The girls who visit me just for fun.
The ones who have left me treats and care packages.
The angels who text me to tell me something funny or exciting that's going on.
I love hearing my phone chirp letting me know that a special someone is trying to chat with me on gmail.

I love sisterhood!
What an adventure you girls make my life!

Fighting a life of grime.

2009-11-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

A clean floor cheers me up when I'm feeling crumby.
Fresh hoover lines on the carpet make me smile.
Taking my frustration out by hoovering makes me relaxed.
Pink Dyson greets me every day from the hallway and makes me feel happy and at home.

I enjoy being a housewife.

What's your favourite chore?

What a Guy!

2009-11-05T16:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Guy Fawkes Day!

Park Life.

2009-11-04T17:45:00.000-07:00

I've been financially frugal for years, but even more so in the last few months, so when I do spend money it hurts.

But when I spend money, that in hindsight was a complete waste, I hate myself.

I spent £45 today to stand in a park for 90 minutes and be cold.

I won't go into the details but it involves my ever money eating car.

On the happier side of things I got to spend some of Autumn in the park. I love the park. The light was nice, the air was wet but fresh, and the park was beautiful. It was a fantastic day minus the forty five pounds.

While there I did play on various child designed park toys like the swings and this elephant that rocked back and forth. The elephant looked incredibly sad for being an orange elephant and it had a terrible word (by UK standard) scratched into its forehead. I can only imagine the the elephant's tears are caused by the apathy, and ill behaviour of the children that used to be entertained by rocking but now need more thrill and excitement so vandalise public property with obscenities.

I used to go to this park with my mum, sister and next door neighbours when I was younger. I had vague memories, and I liked that I, in essence, got to say goodbye to something I would never have said goodbye to otherwise.

The City of Dionne welcomes you!

2009-11-03T17:38:00.000-07:00

Here's another of my fave bloggers stopping in to inspire us. Dionne, is a breath of fresh air. Her drawings and pictures make me feel all warm and fuzzy and her etsy shop makes me drool! Tell me you don't love her Gypsy Feet adventure picture... and I'll punch your nose!

Hi. I'm Dionne and I am a Texifornalian (the official term for an Australian who used to live in California, who now lives in Texas).

Moving from Australia to the other side of the world was a big stage in my life. I was fresh out of college and nervous. I had no friends in the US, and no job lined up. All I had was a suitcase full of clothes and Bon Voyage Cards (unread, so that I would have something to read on the plane). I was hesitant to take the plunge, but eight years later, I can say that it's one of the best things I've ever done in my life. This journey has lead me to sooo many wonderful things:

1. Romance and Love like I have never imagined.
2. Deep Friendships
3. Discovering myself
4. Discovering BOBA!!!!
5. Bumping into the Blogging World

There are soooo many more lovely things that have happened because I took this leap. So I encourage you to leap whenever possible!

Photo Challenge: Zombie Jamboree!

2009-10-31T01:13:00.000-06:00

Join in The Gypsy Feet Halloween challenge.
Post a picture of your halloween feet on our facebook event album and let us guess who/what you dressed up as! Easy!
Then post a picture of you in your whole costume. Go on, it'll be fun!

"Adventure" is our middle name... seriously, both of us!

2009-10-29T16:35:00.000-06:00

I'm thinking up a grand Gypsy Feet photo challenge right now.
If you have any ideas leave a comment on our Facebook page :)

DNA Feet

2009-10-28T18:58:00.002-06:00

I share DNA with these feet.

I like walking with them because I can 100% be myself with no pressure, or no judgements.

It's so freeing, and kind of what being a gyspy is all about: exploring things with no preconceptions or forced rules. It's all about being you and doing what you want to do and going where you want to go and exploring and adventuring with whomever will help you be free to be who you really are.

Oot Scoot!

2009-10-27T08:58:00.000-06:00

Wanna know a blog that I love? You do?! Check out Flight of the Thorups.
Here's a little taster from the rad Carla.

"We'd rather scoot than walk. Hearing the engine start when you've kick-started, your feet dragging on the ground as you shift into first gear, holding the scooter up at stop lights while making sure you still look rad. It's especially thrilling when wearing our Sunday best. Don't let your tie fly in the wind! Make sure your skirt stays down! Does my helmet match my dress? Our feet will forever travel in style, even if they get chilly in the ever changing seasons."

- Carla

I don't think you're ready for this jelly:

2009-10-23T15:15:00.000-06:00

I really like to do fun things. Sometimes I want to do something that sounds like fun to me because I can see the potential in it but it sounds completely daft to someone else. I think this was one of those things.

Stuart only has one day where he gets home before 4.30pm through the week. That is the day I'd like to try have our adventures on. So this week I researched and chose wisely my adventure. The Jelly Belly Factory.

How could that not be fun? I think Stuart took me just to get me off his back, which I appreciate because I don't necessarily enjoy whining, not at this age. I do however enjoy sweeties and I know for a fact that he enjoys Jelly Bellies - specifically the Pomegranate ones - be careful not to get them mixed up with Cinnamon because I did that this morning and had to give myself CPR.

Now we know all about how Jelly Bellies came into existence and I am more than happy to share that knowledge with you but I won't spoil the tour for you so let me just say, Jelly Bellies are from heaven. They were completely inspired by angels. They are beautiful little beans of glory and you should go visit the factory. You won't be sorry. Amen.

They give you free candy on a FREE tour!!!

Have you "bean"?
Was it like being in Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory?

Upon Reflection:

2009-10-22T12:37:00.000-06:00

It's official. I'm taking charge of the way things are. I'm almost 25 and my life is feeling a little stale, a bit on the stagnant side. I feel like I'm watching other people on adventures that I want to be part of. So from now on no more whining or moaning. I'm making goals and I'll achieve them. Today I'm creating my Bucket List and it's going to be BRILLIANT!

I'm rededicating myself to The Gypsy Feet and I'm excited!!

I am in charge of my own reflection. It's my companion.

Do you have a Bucket List?

No? Make one.
Yes? Share it with me :)

wandering_shoes@live.com

Apple feet.

2009-10-21T16:29:00.003-06:00

Most of my hours these days are consumed with working/playing/socialising/living/breathing/dancing for Apple.

Yes, I am now one of the electric blue t-shirted people that greet you with a smile and ask how you're doing, if you have any questions or need any help with choosing your new iPod, iMac, or MacBook.

It is actually (after the hard core training and settling in period) the best job I've ever had. The hours are amazing, the people are incredible and the work is far from boring, depressing, or monotonous. It is amazing.

The entire structure and business ethic of working there makes happiness.

And they gave me business cards that my feet (a tedious link) are modelling.

This is what occupies my days, and it is, in fact, part of 'the day in the life of...' ... me.

He ain't heavy, he's my brother...

2009-10-20T13:05:00.001-06:00

This is a day in the life of my older brother, Andrew. He's going to take you on a little tour of his Saturday starting in our hometown on the East Coast of Scotland and you'll even be introduced to his lovely girl friend, Jenna...

The End.

We'd love to see a day in your life too.
Send them to us wandering_shoes@live.com
Get as many people involved as you can.
I dare you :)

This is home now.

2009-10-16T21:14:00.000-06:00

Unpacked - mostly.
Making friends - I'm trying.
Husband happy and in school - completely.
Back in housewife mode - Yeppers.
Excited for life - 100%

Stamping Through National Parks

2009-10-13T14:13:00.000-06:00

on a recent road trip from southern california to central oregon, i decided to pick up a couple of national parks passport stamps at sequoia & kings canyon national parks. before even entering the parks the landscape began to change, as i traded the barren california highway scenery for trees, trees, and more trees. there is just something about mountains and forests, isn’t there? fresh air is the perfect remedy for stress relief. 

at every stop i made in the park, i was met with the most delightful smells. i don't know if clean air really has a smell but if it does, this would be it.

i stopped at the sentinel tree and the general sherman tree (the largest redwood in the world, by volume), but my favorite stop was an unexpected one. upon crossing over a lovely stone bridge, i noticed a group of people playing in the water below. i just couldn't resist, so i hiked down in my skirt and flip flops (perhaps not the best choice for the day), and did a little wading. i was surprised at how perfect the water temperature was - cool enough to be refreshing, but not so cold as to curl your toes. it was a wonderful break from the drive.

-Tara

The fish spoke to me.

2009-10-09T22:32:00.000-06:00

I believe we make our own luck but that doesn't stop me wishing on stars, eyelashes, birthday candles and other lucky wishing things. Coi fish symbolise courage, determination and overcoming struggles. Finding this pond of coi was lucky for me. It reminded me I need to work harder to overcome my own struggles.

I'm determined to make the most of life. I make my own luck.

I have a hobby...

2009-10-07T18:05:00.002-06:00

I have many hobbies that could be deemed as strange. This one combines my political beliefs and photographing strangers.

I like to go to peace protest, and anti-war demonstrations, and nuclear disarmament marches... pretty much anything that combines home made signs, typography, a lot of interesting looking people from different wakes/genres/classes of society and passion for a cause.

The thing is, a lot of the time I have to go it a lone to these protest, and the best way to have the courage to do something on your own with a large group of people involved is to hide behind a camera.

I love these gypsy feet because I strongly believe that children brought up with values, passion and beliefs for something — for anything — and those that see their parents act and not just talk about them will grow up curious enough to develop their own well researched and strongly based passions, beliefs and opinions and act upon them also.

And passion for something outwith the material, fickle, consumerist, disposable realm, without a doubt, shapes character like nothing else can.

Finding inspiration along my way...

2009-10-06T20:12:00.004-06:00

My biggest fear being so far from family and now, friends is that they'll forget me. It's ridiculous, I know but I can't shake it. I'm scared to be forgotten. Is that selfish? I don't even know.

Thank goodness for memories.

What's your biggest fear?

One... Step... At... A... Time.

2009-09-30T15:15:00.004-06:00

Sometimes the climb is high and steep,
Sometimes we don't even know we've climbed so high,
Sometimes we have to go back down,
Sometimes it's up and sometimes it is down,
Always we should go
one...
      step...
            at...
                  a...
                      time.

I like to move it, move it!

2009-09-21T14:18:00.002-06:00

This pathway is paved with change... no, not as in money change but you know, experience and adventure change...

This is the week of the big move! I don't know when I'll be back. Could be a week, could be two. Until then we'll be gypsying south. This is going to be a huge adventure!

Mental mental chicken Oriental...

2009-09-18T16:03:00.002-06:00

Things around here are MAD!
We're moving in a few day to California.
Mr. A left this morning to sign some paperwork in California and won't be back til Sunday night.
Loans, housing, schooling, packing, moving, working, editing...

We took a break last weekend and visited our good friends we hadn't seen since their wee man was a teeny wee man. The break was exactly what we needed - even though the ferry home was an hour late and I missed the excitement of it all because I dozed off.

Next time.

Don't forget to send us your pics.
You might just find yourself being 'feetured'!

wandering_shoes@live.com

Questions and Answers

2009-09-16T17:11:00.007-06:00

This evening was spectacular. What I thought was going to be an hour to an hour-and-a-half of slight boredom turned into 2.5hours of pure uplifting enjoyment.

I went to a talk by one of the high up religious leaders of my religion. It's quite a rare occurrence, and he lives in the USA. But he was visiting Scotland and he conducted a Questions and Answers session for 2 hours rather than talk at everyone in Scotland that wanted to attend.

The final gist of this Q&A session was an object lesson about not always looking for answers from specific people and always looking and researching the answer yourself.

It made me realise that quite often we do that in life, we always look for other people to answer our questions of what do I do now? How should I behave when I reach this age? or am I doing this right... is this normal?

But sometimes we already know the answer and we just have to do what we think is best for us and those that we love.

Before the main guy started speaking he had three other people give brief introduction talks and the first lady, who was from Portugal, challenged us all 'To be an answer to someone.' My interpretation of that is pretty much to look for opportunities to assist other people and be the help that they very well might be shouting out for.

Once everyone had left I stood on the stand in the very location that the main speaker had been standing. The image might not be very visually pleasing, but walking on the same ground as something that confident, and important is incredibly symbolic in itself.

My best friend's feet:

2009-09-15T16:29:00.002-06:00

"Me and my buddies, Emma and Laura, 519 feet above the ground on a sheet of glass. We were at the top of Blackpool Tower (the Las Vegas of the UK!) and were super brave. Sadly I we didn't have time to have a ride on a donkey... next time!"

-Paul

Don't forget to send us your adventure stories!
wandering_shoes@live.com

"San Francisco, let me beat my feet Up and down Market Street..."

2009-09-11T20:13:00.006-06:00

Saying goodbye to my best friend, her husband, and her two older daughters at the airport this morning was hard enough. And then there is the youngest, the Little Sunshine that fills these shoes, who has stolen my heart and taken it with her to San Francisco.

- Ninang Lei Lei

Send your pictures to us! wandering_shoes@live.com

"Life is only as good as the memories you make..."

2009-09-10T21:15:00.002-06:00

It was just a few weeks ago we were queueing up to rinse the sand off our feet at Cannon Beach, Oregon and now the leaves on the trees are turning red and getting ready to drop from their branches. There's a lot of change going on in my life this Autumn.

What about you?

Isn't Autumn great?

Vikkers is sickers...

2009-09-09T16:42:00.003-06:00

Dear Vikki,

I think you're great and I'm sorry you're sick. This picture from this post is one of my favourites that you've shared with us. I love the black, white and greyness of it. The depth of the moving stairs against your white Chucks and then the pattern of your trousers. The lines. I love it all.
I hope you feel better soon Sikki - see what I did there, instead of 'Vikki' I said 'Sikki' ha!
Love,
Laura x

she may be following my footsteps.

2009-09-08T16:42:00.003-06:00

"There is a saying that big gates move on small hinges... Your example in seemingly small things will make a big difference in the lives of our young people. The way you dress and groom yourselves, the way you talk, the way you pray, the way you testify, the way you live every day will make the difference. This includes which TV shows you watch, which music you prefer, and how you use the Internet." -Elder Uchtdorf from the LDS church

I've been feeling rather inspired, as of late, to try and set a better example.

Must be the fact that I am now sharing a room with my 15 year old sister.

Life is so good. It's marvelous that it is never too late to start living the way we've always hoped we could.

A fishy tale of two sisters...

2009-09-08T10:14:00.002-06:00

This picture is my amazing sister and I wearing our guys' Muck Boots on a weekend fishing trip. The water was a bit higher than normal, thus producing lots of mud and causing us to con the boys out of their boots so that we wouldn't our toesies all gooey.

My hunting dog, Braxton he kinda wanted in on the photo op and turned out being a great photo that I am excited to share with The Gypsy Feet!

Luv, KariAnne

If feet could kiss...

2009-09-04T00:51:00.001-06:00

This picture was taken the last week of February 2009.
My dixie chicken feet are the ones wrapped in sandals. The converse clad feet across from mine belong to my lover, Mr. C. When we set my camera down on the sidewalk and posed our feet for this picture, we had only known each other for a month. We were already ridiculously in love. A week later, we decided to tie the knot. And before we knew it, this picture wound up as a matted snapshot in our wedding announcements. Yes, a foot picture in wedding announcements. We lived that dangerously. And we loved it. We call it the kiss picture... if feet could kiss.

-Lissa

Furry Gypsy.

2009-09-02T15:02:00.002-06:00

This is an ode to a future Gypsy. As of just now she's not been many places, she doesn't like leaving the house actually. She was born in another house, and spent a week in another house, but at the age of four years and seven weeks and six days she is pretty awesome thing to be around.

This is Zero the ghost cat, and she keeps my feet warm at night. She also scratches my feet at night because she thinks they are toys. She chases my feet and jumps on them and wraps her paws around my leg whenever I walk to or from the bathroom — she likes to get her pounce on.

I've spent a long and boring day selling things on ebay, and she has kept me company most of the day. The selling comes as phase one of my immigration, a process that will involve her.

My dear kitten will officially be a gypsy in a few months.

Going Coastal:

2009-09-01T18:17:00.004-06:00

With the acceptance to school and the fact we'll be moving in less than 3 weeks - once we find somewhere to live - comes the excitement of being near the sea again.

I'm not sure why being close to the sea is such a big deal to me. I think I might have inherited it though. Wherever I am in the world so long as I'm near the coast I feel at home.

What makes you feel at home?

"Out beyond the ideas of the final way and the only way there is a dreamy field. I'll meet you there." Rumi

2009-08-31T23:23:00.005-06:00

What on earth happened to us last week?! I'm very sorry/embarrassed about that. This week I'll be back with posting - so long as my intergalactic net stays in tact.

When I stumbled upon this lovely Blog, I instantly thought of all of the wonderful places that I've been in my lifetime and wished so badly that I had thought to take a photograph of my feet while on vacation. I could send you pictures of my happy feet standing on the ruins of Tulum in Mexico or prancing through Times Square in some kick ass platform shoes.

The one trip that really stood out to me was when I went to Hawaii a few years ago on my honeymoon. While on Maui we journeyed on the Road to Hana, which is the name given to the 68-mile long stretch of Hawaii State Highways 36 and 360. It's an amazing 3 hour journey that takes you past waterfalls, lagoons, and so many other beautiful landscapes that Maui has to offer. The adventure should not be rushed because once you get to the little town of Hana, you will only find a sign and a gas station. You see, the magic of the Road to Hana is in the journey and not the destination. If you rush to get to Hana, you will miss all the beautiful views scattered along the way.

After we completed our quest I decided to take that experience as a metaphor for my life.

My current jaunt has led me to Athens, Ga. Where I am a stay at home Mom to two boys. The only road trips I take these days are in the daydreams I fit in between diaper changes. I am on my own "Road to Hana" but mine involves things like cooking dinner and bedtime. These are important strolls that must also be taken slowly. The joy of being a Mom can be missed if I rush through these tasks. I find it important to stop and look at the beauty of the vegetables as I slice them for my casserole. If I were to rush through bed time, I would miss my baby's loving gaze. If you have ever been on a walk with a four year old, you know that children live by this philosophy inherently. We stop often to poke sticks into holes or to throw rocks into the woods. Very often, we have no destination.

So, here is a picture of my dirty feet in a 3 month old pedicure. I decided to prop them up in the automobile that gets the most use around my house. It's small and it's made of plastic but it has served us well on our pilgrimages. I wouldn't want my feet to take me anywhere else right now.

Except maybe Las Vegas.

Thanks,
Leigh

Six.

2009-08-26T15:38:00.004-06:00

I've heard before that through your life you will meet hundreds of people, several of them will be friends, but a lot of those friends you won't keep in contact with for the duration of your life. On average there are only 6 people that you will keep as close friends for long life-time spanning periods of time.

This is my 'Jemima Puddle Duck' with me 'Tallula Pee-pee.'

We've known each other for 8 years, and she is utterly fantastic.

No matter which city we live in, or how many months we go without communicating, we are still perfect friends whenever we are together and do get to see each other.

In our 8 years as friends we've never lived in the same city, at all.

She is my greatest idol... that is why we have matching shoes.

"Life is only as good as the memories you make..."

2009-08-26T11:09:00.002-06:00

I'm back!
Here's what happened:

We picnicked

We took our time

We sang in the car... a lot

We visited the Oregon Coast

We roasted hot dogs for dinner
We splashed in the Pacific Ocean
We became even more best friends

We had our 1st leisurely roadtrip together
We stopped in Astoria and became Goonies
We had our first camping trip/glamping trip

We stopped a billion times just because we could

We ate some free cheese at the Tillamook Cheese Factory

And that was all in ONE day!

AND Lover got accepted to school in California! The next adventure begins!

Last Tuesday is the day I'll think about whenever I think of summer '09.
Thank you Mr A.

New York, I Love You...

2009-08-21T11:15:00.002-06:00

"These vagabond shoes, are longing to stray
Right through the very heart of it."

My new favorite shoes & I miss New York City... a lot.

Raquel

Sands of Time.... [ Vikki ]

2009-08-19T16:52:00.002-06:00

My feet have wandered in this picture, but wherever they are they will be returning to the same coastal region.

I bought these flip flops in Switzerland.

This picture is Pacific Beach.

I have a sandy adventure in my future and it's exciting.

Rainy Day

2009-08-18T23:12:00.000-06:00

Dear Rainy Day,

I hope that as I continue to grow older in years, you will always remind me to stay young at heart. I hope you will always remind to embrace my inner child by splashing in your wonderful puddles.I hope you will always inspire me to use my imagination and help me to remember that I never have to grow up completely. I want to thank you Rainy Day for all the fun days you have provided me with. I am looking forward to our fun days in the future.

Yours truly,

Sarah Nicole

the death of my red shoes

2009-08-17T08:49:00.004-06:00

I caught my would-be husband's eye, with a little help from my flashy heals.

I've worn them out doing silly-girl photo-shoots.

And now I feel as if it is time to go shopping.

Happy Monday, bloggy buddies!

xoxo, Megan Marie

Summer, I'm not cheating on you but...

2009-08-14T12:27:00.004-06:00

Summer,
It's not you, it's me.
Let's break up and be done... for now.
You tried your best but we just weren't meant to be.
I should have tried harder but I can't go back in time to fix that.
You just want what's best for me, I know that.
Next year we'll try again.
I have a good feeling about next year.
I just need time to straighten some things out.
Until then, don't give up on me.
I love the idea of you and me, Summer.
We've worked so well together in the past.
Thanks for keeping me company and trying to cheer me up by bronzing my skin.

Until we meet again.
Your admirer,

Laura xx

The Girl with A Cheery Disposition:

2009-08-13T11:17:00.001-06:00

"I had such a wonderful time

spending a few days with my family...

I did some shopping with my mom and Nana,

Then my dad and me had movie night like we use to back in the day

(he is a sucker for chick flicks..shh don't tell him I told you)

Then we celebrated

my Great Aunt and Uncles 50Th Anniversary

I must say their gift for each over was the coolest gift ever!

They bought an old jukebox and had all their songs put in it.

Now I will be heading back home to Nashville tomorrow.

Which I am super excited about

because I just got news that guitar hero

will be flying home Thursday

for a few hours to see me!!!!!!

Yay, because 13 days is just way to long to go without him."

-Whitney

Luminated Wednesday [Vikki]

2009-08-12T18:31:00.004-06:00

I bought this pair of chucks in LA in 2006.

This photo was taken at a bowling alley in Salt Lake in 2009.

I like that even although they are dirty, they are old, they have been to loads of places, met a lot of people, have memories litterly on them (there's hot chocolate stains from an 'accident' in a cafe) they are still luminated. They can still shine brightly. Maybe not as bright as a brand new pair, but they are trying... and I like that my shoes still try and that they are still beautiful and wonderful even although they might be a little old.

Be luminous.

Standing still and moving forward:

2009-08-11T13:01:00.002-06:00

Dear Katherine,
Thanks for sharing this picture with us. I posted it out of pure selfishness. I needed your words today.

-Laura

what friends do.

2009-08-10T16:26:00.004-06:00

I've been going through all my old boxes of collectables, getting ready to move.

This is a collage from the teen girl squad. My best friends. I had to hold it down with my feet to get a picture because it was so wrinkled.

This was just the kind of stuff we did for each other back then. Finding this has inspired me to do more nice things for my friends. It was sort-of a high school thing... but why?

I'm going to keep friendship alive in my life.

xoxo, Megan Marie

The sound Scooby-Doo's feet make when he runs

2009-08-07T11:05:00.004-06:00

I love art. I love technology AND I love housewives and mothers. Put all those things together and this is who you get: Lindsay AKA Penguin Stands Alone. I LOVE her! (Is this getting awkward?)...

"I don't remember ever making the conscious decision to become an artist. i just WAS what i was... and it happened to be an artist. I love to draw and i love to watch people so it just made sense that i'd go to school for animation. I graduated in 2005 and have been a visual development artist, 3D artist and 2D video game artist professionally. Now i'm just enjoying doing freelance art and being a new mom while my husband goes to dental school in San Francisco."

Isn't she rad/inspiring? Thanks for sharing a bit about your journey to awesomeness with us, Lindsay. Someday Mr and I will have a family portrait by Lindsay. Someday...

"Her eyes are as big as her bubbly toes..."

2009-08-06T16:57:00.003-06:00

i'm a firm believer that bubble baths cure everything.

whether my day involves running three miles...

fighting or loving with the boy...

shopping in sky high heels...

or dancing my heart out in my room.

instead of an office manager...

i'm a fairy princess.

instead of the dishes waiting for me in the sink downstairs...

i have pumpkin-turned carriage waiting for me outside.

the world is a better place inside my bubble bath.

-Nicole

Nicole, I too am a firm believer in the magical power of the bubble bath. I haven't had one since April and miss it a lot... I'm jealous of you. - Laura

Wedding Wednesday [Vikki]

2009-08-05T13:36:00.003-06:00

AND...

I'm being cheeky and posting twice.

I just bought these shoes on ebay today.

They, will be, my wedding shoes. Oh yes they will.

A
MAZE
ING!

I'm gutted because I could have 'bought them now' and had them a week ago for £55, but I bidded to try and get them cheaper and ended up paying more for them. Devistated. It was lame. Ne'er mind though, I'm excited by them, and I love their cute heel, and their swans.

I can't wait to be showing you pictures of my feet in them on 'the day'. I wish it was tomorrow.

Starting Her Young [ Vikki ]

2009-08-05T13:26:00.003-06:00

I have no excuse, but I have reasons.

My feet have been very busy over the past week. Last Wednesday I was in Edinburgh visiting old flatmates. On Thursday I was at my best friend's wedding (Yes, another) where I got poo'ed on by a pidgeon. Friday I was visiting my newly born first cousin once removed (my cousin's child which who was born late on the Tuesday night), I also picked up my laptop then spent three days reinstalling all the essentials and getting all my files back to an accessable point. Today I was babysitting my niece all day, and now I am breathing... and showing you the cutest pair of feet i've seen in a very long time.

This is Amelia Julianna Verrall and she is one week and one day old, and on the first day I met her she was wearing Chuck Taylor Converse socks. Absolutley amazing.

The Gypsy Cowgirl

2009-08-04T10:41:00.001-06:00

"Despite growing up near the beach in Southern California, I met and fell for a handsome cowboy gentleman who was horrendously out of his element. Raised by loving salt-of-the-earth parents, he was a charming Southern boy at heart, lost in a sea of surfers and skaters and traffic. Seeing as how he is ridiculously gifted at music (and I am - of course - not at all biased), it became clear to me that I would someday need to hang up my Rainbows and follow this boy to Nashville, to chase together our wildest dreams.

Passionately traveling down our own windy and dramatic road of love, one Christmas a few years ago, before we were married, I received a single gift. Upon opening the box that held my gorgeous cowboy boots, my sweet cowboy said to me,

"I wish I could be giving you a ring right now, but since I can't - I'm giving you these as my promise that soon I'm gonna marry you and take you with me to Nashville. And if you're gonna live in Nashville, you're gonna need some cowboy boots."

True to his word, that handsome cowboy and I have been married since January 14, 2006 - and living in Nashville, TN, chasing down our dreams, since December 7, 2006.

My heart is his, my life is a beautiful adventure, and these cowboy boots of mine will always follow his - anywhere they go."

-Christiana

The weirdest dreams

2009-08-03T00:12:00.002-06:00

Last night I had a dream that I met one of the bloggers that I really, really admire.

In my dream she didn't want to be my friend. She didn't like me.

Sometimes I think blogging starts to feel like this HUGE search for approval.

Maybe I need a break from it.

Because I really need to be able to sleep without fearing rejection from imaginary people.

xoxo, Megan Marie

Goodbye July

2009-07-31T19:00:00.003-06:00

Dear July,

You were ok. I would just like to August to be better and quite frankly, it shouldn't be too hard. You kind of tortured me this year. It's possible you'll be my favourite next year though. I'll always have high hopes for you, July. Just don't get sassy again. It isn't cute.

Love,
Laura xx

Montrose, Scotland vs Seattle, Washington

2009-07-30T18:08:00.006-06:00

Time:

Seattle: 5.18pm Thursday
Scotland: 1.18am Friday

Temperature:
Seattle: 30'c
Scotland: 10'c

Seattle: Extremely hot aaaaall week long.
Scotland: Extremely cool and rainy all week long.

Where would I rather be?

(Yes, that's my mum's feet again. Twice in one week. I know!)

The Lady of the House:

2009-07-28T07:19:00.004-06:00

I've told you about my mum before and how she taught me my Gypsying ways. She also instilled in me my love of photography, sunshine and handmade accessories. She's a knitting machine and has been since she was 3 years old. She taught me to knit and I can, about 23 times slower than she does and certainly not with my eyes closed like she does.

Visit here to enter her first giveaway.

Tell me something wonderful about your mother.

they used to be called thongs, but now it's inappropriate

2009-07-27T20:52:00.002-06:00

Check out my flip-flop tan lines.

So, I'm compiling a list of places to vacation in my lifetime. Any suggestions?

xoxo, Megan Marie

Pioneer children sang as they walked and walked and walked and walked and walked...

2009-07-24T12:23:00.003-06:00

"Hello,
I thought I'd drop two photos of my dad's feet by for you to take a gander at. He is a teacher and a wagon master.
Each year he takes his 30 or so eighth grade students on a week long wagon adventure in Nevada and California.
He recently tightened the rims on his wagon wheels, which is when I took these photos. It's sort of like resoling a boot, but hotter and terrifying if it goes wrong.
The top picture I took while he cut wood to use to heat up the wagon wheel rims. The second is of him playing the wood just so, so that the metal heats up evenly.
I believe these have been my dad's work boots since before I was born(23 years ago). He gets them resoled or patched every year or two. I just love how much they tell about his life and his standards."
-Mindy

Mindy, thanks for sharing that with us AND right on time for Pioneer day too! -Laura

The Blue Lily Adventure.

2009-07-23T17:15:00.004-06:00

1 Adventure.
8 shoes.
2 pairs of vegan shoes.
1 troll under the bridge.

2 boys and 2 girls.
1 Space Needle.
4 very hot plates in 1 Mexican restaurant.
2 milkshakes, 1 rootbeer float and 1 rootbeer in 1 burger joint.

11pm being stuck on the motorway.

2 much fun.

4 friends.

Computer Trouble Wednesday. [ Vikki ]

2009-07-22T17:14:00.004-06:00

I've had computer trouble since Friday last week.

The apple mac, 17inch mac daddy, that is my fifth appendage has been out of service since around that time too.

I'm currently on an old PC, sharing my patient electronic geek feet with you.

The laptop is currently hooked up as another drive to my old G4 tower mac (which I was meant to sell to someone last week - thank goodness I didn't) which is running a data recovery programme in an attempt to get my design work, photographs, and everything else I ever added to that laptop in the past year.

This is day three of active attempts and I'm hopeful that by tomorrow morning all will be well. We'll see though.

Hopefully next wednesday will be a little more picturesque and entertaining.

My advice... backup. Everyone says it. No one does it until something file-tragic happens to them.

And on a practical note:

2009-07-21T11:43:00.003-06:00

Hey,
I thought i would send you a picture of my second ingrown surgery!
For those who have had one should know that if it gets this bad...

it was pretty gruesome!

I hate em.
I have had 2 surgerys now, on the same toe.
Take care of your toes and you won't have to be stuck with a big fat numb toe. :)
It's not fun. Even though it's a cute color!

love,
peri

p.s i'm afraid i have two more on my right toe.

Peri is one of my new favorite bloggers. Go check her out.
I hope your tootsies get better soon, Peri. -Laura

Feet on my dashboard

2009-07-20T09:30:00.003-06:00

Once it would take forty-five days to travel 1000 miles. By foot.

Now it takes about 16 hours. In a car.

Or 2 and 1/2 hours. Via plane.

I wonder what we've lost in experience when we gained the extra time.

That whole "getting there is half the fun" thing... Are we missing out on half the fun?

Not that I think walking for days and days would be a total picnic. I just wonder what sort of bonding experience it would be with the comrades of the journey.

I'm sort-of glad that we can't afford to fly anywhere. My husband and I have the best conversations when we drive. We sing far too loudly. We eat all the junk we usually avoid. And when we arrive at our destination I love him more for every hour we spent.

Anyway, just a thought.

xoxo, Megan Marie

Gypsying:

2009-07-19T15:07:00.002-06:00

See where Megan's Gypsy Feet have taken her in a summer past over on Team Boo. Also check out one of my recent adventures over there too.

The birthday weekend:

2009-07-17T16:28:00.002-06:00

That's my lovers feet up there. It's his birthday this weekend. I'm trying to plan some serious shenanigans. I'll let you know how it goes ;)

Have a great weekend!

I'm like a babbling brooke... babbling.

2009-07-16T22:04:00.005-06:00

July 4th 2008,
Marysville, WA

I couldn't think of what to post seeing as I haven't taken a picture recently (and because the site make-over is driving me batty!) but I wanted to share:

When I email people to let them know we used the picture they submitted I say something like "we featured you". I have to fight against myself to actually use the word "featured" because to me it is far too hilariously punny. I fight even harder not to spell it like this - Feetured.

I am ridiculous.

Just know that when you send a picture to us and I post it you've made my day and I've spent probably 7 minutes laughing out loud typing the word "featured".

Also,

It tickles me pink when I run across this. People featuring us on their sites! I love it.