Hope on Foster after all

For those of you familiar with Portland geography, I have been living in the Foster/Powell neighborhood for a few years now. I bought a house in May of 2004 because the house was cute and the neighborhood was still affordable (granted, sketchy in pockets.) It has managed to feel like home.

You can imagine my satisfaction when an amazing restaurant finally popped up within short walking distance from my home. Bar Carlo, I am in love.

Self serve Stumptown coffee, big windows, savory food. It brings new, added pleasure to my weekends. Quality of life has improved.

Even better, it has opened my mind up to brick and mortar jewelry/art/craft business dreams. I am tired of the Corporate rat race and the politics.

I want to live the dream. Come'on Foster Road. Show me some love.

Etsy Love: Shannon Gerard

I am now finally coming to terms with the fact that I don't write often enough about some of the hidden gems I have come accross on Etsy, and that needs to change! As a result, it's high time that I give one of my favorite Etsians, Shannon Gerard, the public praise she deserves.

A few months back one of her zines made it to the front page of Etsy, for which I am extremely greatful. Otherwise, I may have never found her. It was the artwork on the front cover that drew me in. I know exactly what that hug feels like. After reading the description in the listing for Hung 3 (Lonely Tylenol), I knew I had to have it.

Not only is her artwork beautiful and her humor sincere, her writing is absolutely gorgeous. I saw myself in this story. She captured every emotion perfectly.

Beyond her seemingly limitless talent, she has a shop on Etsy: shannongerard.etsy.com.

It's good for the heart. Take a peak.

Don't be a cheap ass bastard.

I just found out Quasi is playing a 5 dollar show at Dante's on 11/15, this upcoming Thursday night. Thats right, *$5.00* show.

When does that ever happen? Never.

Don't pass up a good thing.