It's All Happening

The Past Six Months

2010-09-23T22:45:00.000-07:00

Patty here. It’s been almost six months since I shared pieces of my life with you, and that’s just wrong, I know. But honestly, I just haven’t found the time for more than 140 characters lately. Rehearsing almost every night in addition to working 50- hour weeks will do that. If you tweet, let’s follow each other! (Follow @Patricia_Lynn_ on Twitter!)

I’ve been so busy, I missed my deferred disposition due date. I’m currently in the middle of a take-home driver’s safety course being hosted by cartoon impressions of a hula dashboard doll, a bobble-head and a personified tree car freshener. That’s right, it’s playing in the background. I’m attempting to pick out key words, general facts and out-dated percentages while I type. The first question in the first mini exam was a fill in the blank that read: “Your eyesight diminishes as you get ___.” with options A. younger, B. older or C. wiser. And only 44 seconds to answer! I’m not so sure paying close attention to this video is a productive use of my time.

The Soldier Thread had a really successful CD release party at The Parish downtown on July 30^th. I would have to say that it was my best show to date. I love it when that happens. The entire night was so full of energy and love. Since then, we’ve been in the rehearsal space most evenings working on some exciting things. I would share them with you, but the details are still coming together. All I can say is mark October 23 on your calendar, and if you’re not already on our email list, visit www.thesoldierthread.com and sign up to receive exclusive updates. Also, we just had a photo shoot with Christian Devoe. I can’t wait until we start using his new promo shots because they’re awesome! Until then, check out some of his other work on his website!

I’ve never been a health nut or gym rat, and I’ve never been able to run more than a half-mile due to exercise-induced asthma and mere laziness, but that’s all changed. As of late, my mind has been excessively preoccupied with healthier food options and exercise opportunities. I started by hanging out on the stair-master, and lifting weights back in January. More recently, I've started running. Yes, running. Today was actually my personal best time; 4 miles in 41:34. It’s not a jaw-dropping record by any means, but it’s better than I ever thought I’d accomplish. You really can surprise yourself when you put your mind to it, or over it. Mind over body, that is. That’s something I’m reminded of every time I go to sweaty yoga. If you’re in Austin and you like yoga, you MUST check out Black Swan Yoga. They offer several classes throughout the week by donation only! Perfect for someone who can't afford or commit to a monthly membership. My two favorite instructors are Hillary Flora and Tyler McCoy.

In terms of my new health and fitness craze, I am going to give a lot of credit to Jillian Michaels. The rest of the credit goes to the bull. See, I was having this reoccurring dream which basically had a giant bull chase me across a red desert until I was out of breath, and then it chased me some more. After researching possible dream meanings and trying to relate this to my life, I began to notice words and images of or relating to the bull on a regular basis. This led me to believe that the bull was my power animal. Whether or not power animals or guardian angel type figures actually exist, the simple belief in one has really changed the way I perceive myself, and the world around me. I’m in the best shape of my life, and happier for it. Okay, must continue with these exams. These questions are really insulting my intelligence.

...Oh yea! Did I mention I'm about to become an aunt?

2010-06-07T07:52:00.000-07:00

The past few months I've had a lot of visitors. I should have written after each visit, but alas, here they are all in one.

My first visit was from Lindsay in March. My big sis from Chicago came back to the Lone Star State. It was 33° in Chicago and 75° in Austin so she was pretty excited to spend her spring break here. She got in on Sunday night and we decided to grab some drinks at Red's Porch. We really only made it through one beer before we got tired. So we decided to save or energy for the next day. Monday, after a little sleeping in, we had lunch at the Torchy's Tacos in The Trailer Park Eatery. It was Lindsay's first time eating Torchy's and I think it's safe to say she enjoyed it thoroughly. I mean, who doesn't? Her good friend from high school, Kevin, met us there. Architect student at UT and all around nice guy. From there, the three of us went to Spider House. You really can never pass up Spider House on a day with such perfect weather. We sat outside and had a few drinks. Have you had the Sangria there? Well you should. It's fantastic. The next few hours were full of catching up and reminiscing. I like listening to Lindsay speak. She says things like "Yeehaw" and practices her southern draaaaawl, and has her own little mannerisms and phrases that crack me up. She really doesn't understand why I think she's so hilarious. Which I think is even more funny.

Next, it was off to visit her other friend Craig. First, I'm totally jealous of Craig's house. Second, Craig is pretty cool with an even cooler beard. We toured his house and then went to Vivos for Lindsay's Mexican food fix. More drinks and conversation followed. And then it was home, and then the next day she left. Short but definitely sweet.

May brought my next visitor, Jeramey. I've been trying to think of ways to describe him to you. There are too many but here goes: witty, intelligent, creative, talented, entertainer, superhero, soulmate. Eh, that doesn't really even do him justice. Have you ever had a friend that just knows you? Yeah, he's like that. So he came down to Austin to go to some weddings. The night he got in we kind of just went out for the sake of going out. We met some of my friends at Gibson Bar and then went across the street to The Highball. The Alamo Draft House's event planners The Action Pack was throwing another event, of course, and it couldn't have been more fitting for Jeramey. A Superhero Costume Dance Party. Let's just say there was a dance off between Mighty Mouse and Iron Man, and there was the best Dr. Strange costume the world has ever seen. It wasn't the best DJ to ever grace The Highball but we tried to dance nonetheless. We also got forced into a photo booth. Below is the most appropriate photo.

The next day, we drove to Houston for the wedding of our college friends' Jeff and Aly. Of course it wouldn't be a Jeramey and Ashley road trip without Sonic, a good mix cd, and yelling "Wooooo! Watch out Tuscon, here we come!" We made it to the hotel just in time to shower and go straight to the wedding. A very sweet wedding at a nice venue with a great bar and buffet. Who could ask for more? It was really nice to see some of our other friends from college too, like Kyle and Rachel. I think they are the next wedding date in the books, and I'm looking forward to it. A little catching up, a fair amount of dancing, a good amount of drinking. Oh, and another photo booth. Good times had by all. The next day Jeramey and I slept in. Probably the best sleep I've had in months. I think it was knowing that I didn't have any obligations that day for the first time in a long time. Just a leisurely drive back to Austin. On the way back we stopped in Bastrop to get some BBQ. It was delicious. We were back before we knew it, and then Jeramey was gone. I'm already planning a trip up to Fort Worth.

Just a few days ago, my Dad and his wife Chris came to visit me. I hadn't seen them since I went up to Pittsburgh in September. (See blog post "da 'Burgh") Unfortunately, the couldn't stay very long but we jam packed a lot into a little bit of time. I picked them up from the airport on Friday night and drove them to their hotel in The Arboretum. Dad and I went for a drink at a Mexican restaurant nearby. I had a mango margarita, and Dad was reminded that an extremely dry, very little Vermouth, Bombay Sapphire martini, straight up with blue cheese stuffed olives, isn't exactly a Mexican food chain's forte. There's a reason they call him Dr. Bombay.

On Saturday we got up early and I picked them up to go to Kerby Lane Cafe. There we caught up and they met my boyfriend, Josh. Dad and Chris, having been deprived of good Mexican food, really enjoyed their migas. Everything else was great too. After filling our bellies, we went to the mall so they can see one of the places I work. There, my dad unexpectedly bought a certain, really cool, electronic device. Then we drove past my other place of work and drove around downtown Austin. We ended up on South Congress where we walked and ducked into a few of the shops there. Since we were still full from breakfast, the four of us went to Chuy's just for some drinks and chips and salsa. Then it was back for a tour of my apartment and some setting up, learning, and playing with my dad's new purchase. A little while later we drove back up to the hotel and got ready for dinner. We decided to go to The Oasis on Lake Travis. The sunset capital of Texas. What a good choice. Although it was a little warm we opted for sitting outside on the balcony so we could get the full experience. The food and environment was great, and of course the sunset was too. It was back to the hotel where we decided we were too tired to do anything else. We said goodbye, and they were gone by 7 the next morning on Sunday. Again, short but sweet. See you guys at Christmas?

So lots of visits here lately. But hey, you can't have too much of a good thing. This has been Ashley, and it's all happening with friends and family.

Selling Myself

2010-05-02T17:57:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Etsy?

If yes, skip to the second paragraph.

If no, where on Earth have you been? Read on and educate yourself.

It's a social commerce website where people like me can open a storefront to sell handmade and vintage items. I really can't even

begin to tell you everything that exists on Etsy. Here's a start: art, photography, clothing, jewelry, edibles, bath & beauty products, quilts, nick-knacks, toys, craft supplies, etc. I'm finding it hard to even pick examples to link. Just think of it as stumbling upon an amazingly unique item in a vintage store, craft fair, or like, your grandma's den.

A true nerd's delight.

After thinking about opening a shop for a few years, I finally got around to doing it. You can see my shop here. You'll find a series of my illustrations, examples of custom pet portraits, and posters. I'm hoping to add a lot more work in the near future. There is literally a list in my cludio (closet/studio) of ideas waiting to be materialized. But for now, happy viewing. Or happy buying? This has been TweedleG, and it's all happening.

The Baby Blog

2010-04-07T19:58:00.000-07:00

Patty here, bringing you babies galore. When I first got to Austin last May, I was fortunate enough to snag an internship that allowed me to continue fully pursuing music. That job has since ended, and for the past six months or so I’ve been supplementing my music career by nanny-ing and babysitting. I’ve found some pretty cool families to work with, solely based on personal recommendations. They’re full of musicians, artists, graphic designers and people with good taste in music. And all of their kids are adorable. Don’t ask me if I have a favorite because it would be impossible to choose. And if I ever did choose, I’d never tell you.

My very first baby was Emerson, an outgoing energetic infant. Emy for short. He stole my heart at first burp. Though, nothing about him today resembles an infant. He’s walking everywhere and getting into everything. I have to say, it’s kind of crazy watching a human growing up in front of you. Emy loves busses. Every time a bus drives down their street, he will look for it in the window before it arrives. Cheese and beans are a few of his favorite things on the menu, and apparently he’s ordering a lot of it. See, Emy isn’t what you’d call petite. He’s not small and thin like his parents either. No, Emy, the husky and extremely mobile one year-old is quite the handful…..of cheer of course. One look at his bright blue eyes, and blonde curls and you’d fall in love too.

But he isn’t the only bright-eyed heartthrob. This is Zoe, the extremely photogenic one, as you can plainly see. I think she poses for every picture I take. She’s not far behind Emy in the mobility department. Just the other day I saw her take a few steps when she thought I wasn’t looking. Whenever I try to coax her into walking, she plops down on the floor, gorgeous AND humble. She makes the cutest faces and funniest noises you’ve ever heard. She absolutely loves being outside and she’s got a slew of little talents up her sleeve. Waving, clapping, lip smacking; She even says “ahhh” after taking a sip from her sippy cup. I wouldn’t be surprised if she’s snapping and whistling by the age of three. Below is a video that her dad made of pictures from her first year of life. Everyone should make a video like this! In case you want to know, the song is “Dream Awake” by The Mosquitoes.

Haaaaaaave you met Kai? I haven’t seen this guy in a while, but the last time I was at their house he was cruising on all fours. I couldn’t take my eyes off him for three seconds or he was half way through the doggie-door. And he was pulling up on everything, preferably the trashcan, or the bookshelf, where he would proceed to fling every book to the floor. He’s probably walking by now. I can’t wait to see what he’s getting into these days.

Meet Lydia, the bottomless pit. I don’t think she ever gets full. Pre-made baby food is not in her diet. She’s spoiled with delicious homemade meals prepared by Daddy. Her laugh is infectious, and she’s mastered the pointing finger. When most kids fight bedtime like it’s the end of the world, she will quite literally point to the crib when she’s ready to go down. That blew me away. What can I say, she’s a girl who knows what she wants. Daddy, before you know it she’ll be pointing to a Mercedes Benz. Watch out!

Then there’s Ada, the wide-eyed dark-haired angel. With a nickname like “Scoots,” you better believe she lives up to it. She just started waving too! She loves taking walks and playing peek-a-boo, but what baby doesn’t? Her favorite thing to eat might be grass, but we try to limit that intake as best we can. She lives just down the road from Emy and we like to get them together whenever we can.

If the next two knew I included them in ‘The Baby Blog’ I’m sure they’d correct me. So, let the record show that Jackson and Evan are big boys. Not long ago, the three of us had a little weekend of fun while Dad was working and Mom was partying in Vegas. On one of the days, we went to the Austin Children's Museum and explored until we were too hungry to go on. I’m not sure how nourishing McDonald’s lunch was, but they inhaled those nuggets and we were on to the next activity. The weather was beautiful that day, so I let the boys run around Zilker Park. Kids were lining up in front of a creepy clown with dollar bills in their pockets, and outrageous balloon wishes in their heads. Jackson got a hammer, which I popper before we even got to the car. Evan got a Spiderman, only because the clown couldn't make Superman. Psh! What kind of creepy balloon clown can't make a Superman? Anyway, they opted out of the kiddy train because it was too hot. So to cool off, we grabbed some shaved ice on South Congress. On our way to the Big Top candy shop, we passed by the fire station. An actual firefighter invited the boys into the truck! That was pretty cool. At Big Top, I could tell the boys were getting tired, so I decided that this would be our last stop before heading home. It was an exhausting day, but I'm sure the boys slept well that night.

Mia is the youngest of the bunch. She’s about 5 months now, and the happiest little munchkin ever. Seriously, she’s always smiling. I took this picture just seconds after she opened her eyes from a mid-afternoon nap. She just started rolling over from her belly to her back, and eating rice cereal. Her new highchair makes her look like she’s about to take off in a space ship. I spend two full days a week with her so we’ve become good friends. I can’t wait until summer is here so I can put her in a bathing suit with ruffles and bows.

I realize this entire entry sounds corny, but it’s hard not to be when you’re talking about babies. It's been pretty cool watching these little personalities develop into big ones. I have learned so much from this experience that whenever it is time for me to become a parent, I’ll know what to expect. If you think having just one child is any less than a full-time job, you're really kidding yourself. I love all of these kids so much, but I love just as much being able to hand them off and say, “see you next week!" There are no signs of settling down anytime soon because it's still, well...all happening.

A Much Needed Girl's Night

2010-03-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

I don’t know if you know this, but the two of us have been running around like energizer bunnies lately. Ash is working at 2 part-time jobs, as well as doing some freelance design on the side. I am nanny-ing full time these days, as well as heavily preparing for SXSW with The Soldier Thread. (I’ll get to both of those things in my next entries.) This entry is dedicated to last Friday evening.

Because of all the nonstop working, we decided it was time to get the girls together for some estrogen therapy. On account of just receiving a blender from my aunt, we decided to do a Mexican night and make some frozen margaritas. Ash and I like to title all of our events. First, it was declared the ‘Female Fiesta.’ But I came up with ‘Sexi Mexi Night,’ which I am still proud of. That day I took 3 hours to cook up some homemade borracho beans with love. After work, Ashley swung by Specs to pick up some Tequila, and stopped at Michael’s to gather various needed crafting materials. Yes, sometimes girls craft when they’re tipsy.

Meghan came over and made her famous fresh guacamole. I also whipped up some green tomatillo sauce. It’s my mother’s recipe and it uses an entire bunch of cilantro. Yum!

The sweet sounds of the Selena soundtrack filled the apartment as we sat around the living room sipping our margaritas and reaching across the coffee table to dip our chips. When the beans were good n’ hot, I served everyone a bowl. From the looks of it, I’d say they were a hit.

This is when the crafts began. That’s right, tissue paper flowers. Oh the things girls do when they’re good and boozed. We laughed thinking about how very uninterested any guy would be at the thought of crafting on a Friday night. Ashley’s fellow designer, Katie was a natural! Meghan’s first flower looked like a snowflake. Rilo was just having a ball plopped on top of all the paper.

At some point, I think we all got bored of folding and fanning. The girls got to take their flowers home, and we were left with some delicious leftovers. By the looks of our living room, we might as well have destroyed a piñata in there, but it was well worth it.

(Left to right: Katie, Patty, Meghan, Lacey, Nikki, Ashley)

Goodbye, Ruby Tuesday

2010-01-18T09:33:00.000-08:00

My sister and I got a car on our 16th birthday. We named it Ruby. I secretly called her Ruby Tuesday.

Ruby lasted a pretty long time. One-hundred-eighteen-thousand-eight-hundred-twenty-four gorgeous miles.

As I was driving to sell Ruby I actually got a tear in my eye. Sometimes I think I’m overly nostalgic about things, but as I thought about it more I realized that I’m okay with it. I think it’s okay to look back fondly about the things that got me where I am today. It’s the journey, right? Ruby was my first car. She took me to the events that shaped my life.

If Ruby could talk she'd probably tell you about that time we were at our secret meeting spot. Or that time we made out in front of our parents’ house. Or that time we made an inside joke. Or that time that burn got on the back seat. Or that time the radio turned up when it was turned down. Or that time with the nurf gun. Or that time the spider crawled out of the air conditioning. Or that time you killed it with an ice pick. Or that time I cried. Or that time that guy said that thing. Or that time I was speeding. Or that time there were more spiders. Or that time the visor broke. Or that time the emblem fell off the back. Or that time it smelled really really bad. Or that time I went to soccer practice. Or that time I went to a soccer game. Or that time I drove to Garland, Plano, Dallas, Fort Worth, Tulsa, and Austin. Or that time we got in a fight. Or that time I sang off key. Or that time I confessed. Or that time I laughed. Or that time I made a friend. Or that time I lost one. Or that time that dent got there. Or that time it rained. Or that time I realized I loved you.

I'm definitely going to miss Ruby, and no one will ever be quite like her. But I have a new friend, and her name is Elenor. I know we're going to get along famously.

This is Ray. I couldn't have gotten this car without him. He rocks pretty hard.

This has been Ashley, and still I'm going to miss you.

A Happy New Year

2010-01-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

A Note from the Authors

We realize we haven't written in a while. We found ourselves to be quite busy as 2009 came to a close. We have given ourselves a resolution to commit to this blog more fully in hopes that it will keep us on track with our other resolutions.

Enjoy our new masthead. A fresh new look for a fresh new year.

Chapter One: The Snowball Effect

Thanksgiving was the the first flake of snow that began our snowball into busy times. We both went to our respective homes for Thanksgiving and spent time with our families.

Patty was thankful for green bean casserole and a brave sister who hit the doorbuster sales for the $10 Hamilton Beach coffee maker.

Ashley was thankful for Cherry Pie and seeing her grandparents.

Chapter Two: The Trimming

We found ourselves itching for Christmas to arrive. With holiday party thoughts dancing in our heads, we began to trim our little home with a little Christmas cheer. We made holiday music mixes, drank hot chocolate, lit Warm Apple Pie and Hazelnut Cream candles, put up the tree, and sat in front of classic holiday movies while we stringing popcorn for trimming.

Chapter Three: The Shindig

Convinced that it had been too long since we had a gathering at our place, we started planning something we called Holiday Shindig. Festive drinks and baked goods for everyone! Our spread included Peppermint & Chocolate Cover Pretzels, Ginger Snaps, Rum Cake, Puppy Chow, Candy Canes, Egg Nog, Dark Rum, and various other delicious things.

The White Elephant was possibly the highlight of the night. Some of our favorite gifts included a box of Qtips, a dirty romance novel (live reading included thanks to Drew), a really large pair of women's underwear, and a giant Hillshire Farm sausage. Go Meat! We were glad to see that everyone walked out a little more festive than when they walked in.

Chapter Four: The Trips Home

Patty left for San Antonio, excited to spend 5 straight days almost entirely in her pajamas. The highlights of this year's 'gifts received' included cold hard cash, a transmission flush, and an array of kitchen appliances.

Ashley was only able to go home for two and a half days but found that it was a much needed break. Both her sisters were in town and she thought that was neat. She also celebrated her 24th birthday and was happy that a lot of her friends were able to celebrate it with her. She came back to Austin a little bit richer and a lot bit fuller.

Chapter Five: The New Year

We think that maybe our 2009 New Year's Eve was eventful enough to last a whole year. So this year we had a more low key celebration, and went to one of our favorite bars with a few close friends. We were en route to home at 12:05 am.

For both girls, 2009 was a year of transition. Patty graduated, and moved into her first apartment. She is very much looking forward to what 2010 has in store for The Soldier Thread. Last year was not particularly awesome for Ashley, but necessary nonetheless. She's happy to start the year in Austin, and has some plans and goals she's excited about. However, if any one hears of any jobs like Professional Day Dreamer or Full Time Gypsy, be sure to let her know.

This has been Patty and Ashley, and it's all happening again in 2010.

The Swell Season

2009-11-24T23:19:00.000-08:00

It was a chilly Sunday evening. People in jackets and scarves came walking down Congress Ave. to gather in front of The Paramount, a venue whose stage has humbled itself under the feet of many super stars over the years. But you’ll be hard-pressed to find many acts to start off their set by taking a knee on the regal stage, and quaintly singing to a crowd of hundreds as if to a small coffee shop. This is how The Swell Season warmed us up.

The Swell Season are Markéta Irglová, classically trained Czech pianist and vocalist, and Glen Hansard, who also happens to be the lead singer of Irish band, The Frames.

That night Irglová was modestly dressed in a long red skirt and Hansard wore a striped beanie with a puffball atop his head. They both sat on the back of their heels in the center of the stage and sang “You Must Have Fallen from the Sky,” a song off their self-titled debut album. It also makes an appearance on the soundtrack from the motion picture, Once. If you have not yet seen this film, it is a must. Both musicians star in the film, as well as wrote all the songs featured in its soundtrack.

The crowd started clapping as both got up from the floor. Irglová walked to the piano and Hansard began playing “Lies,” another great song from the Once soundtrack. By the third song, they were grooving full band. The Frames had joined The Swell Season on their North American fall tour. Hansard expressed his joy over the boys’ ability to remain good friends and being able to incorporate them into his new project.

The back of the stage was encircled with large wooden structures that when lit red resemble giant flames. But that wasn’t the only thing that made me take off my sweater. The music, passionate. The energy, all-consuming.

At one point during the set, violinist Colm Mac Con Iomaire was left alone on the stage to serenade us with an 18th century Irish love song. It was intended for more than one violin, so he said he would “conjure up some friends of his.” He began recording parts into a loop station, which would create the illusion of accompaniment by adding in and taking out parts during the song. As he played eloquently, I closed my eyes and landed on a grassy hill. This is probably how my mind imagines Ireland.

The set continued with Irglová’s tender performance of “If You Want Me,” and Hansard’s tear-jerking performance of “Leave.”

Then came “Say It To Me Now,” which according to Hansard, is about “holding stuff in until it becomes cancer and you die.” This one is a favorite of mine because of the way Hansard sings the serious chorus, “Cause this is what you've waited for, your chance to even up the score, and as these shadows fall on me now I will somehow,” until he’s pushing out, even yelling “So if you have something to say, say it to me now, say it to me now, say it to me now,” at the end of the song.

They also played “Rise,” a song by The Frames, and gave a shout-out to Austin legend Daniel Johnston. The night only began to come to a close when they all took the stage again for a five-song encore. The third of which was “High Horses,” my personal favorite off their latest album ‘Strict Joy.’

The Swell Season is one of those bands that I thought it wouldn’t top their album with their live performance. I am confident in saying that it was just as good if not better to watch their music come to fruition in front of my eyes.

The very last song was an Irish folk song, “A Parting Glass,” which was appropriately dedicated to William Liam Clancy of The Clancy Brothers, which Hansard attributed as being “the first Irish rock stars.” Unfortunately, ‘Liam’ is not well. The entire crowd sang in unison, “Goodnight and joy be with you all.” Those were the last words of the night.

The stage radiated warmth throughout the entire show, both visually and sonically. You could say The Paramount was set ablaze with the fiery sounds of The Swell Season. I walked to my car that night with a strong desire to sit in front of a fire with a cup of soup and a lover.

Click here to view the article in SoundCheck Magazine along with more photographs by Randy Cremean.

It's Fall Happenings

2009-11-12T13:10:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but when fall arrives every year I get silly. I carry around this stupid grin that gets bigger whenever a cool breeze hits it. I drive with the windows down and hang one arm out. I start listening to Sufjan Stevens, The National, Band of Horses, Death Cab for Cutie, and One Winter - For Patrick from The Perks of Being a Wallflower on repeat. I turn off the air and open windows. I curl up and read long books in two days. I craft more than normal.

Another phenomenon I experience is an unbelievable urge to go to a pumpkin patch. Patty and I did just that. Maybe it wasn't a pumpkin patch so much as a nursery that had a lot of pumpkins. Close enough. I was drawn to a white one and Patty spent her time looking for the perfect JackOLatern pumpkin. Once we were satisfied, we brought our own little patch home.

After making some hot cocoa, and some planning and agreements on strategy, we began carving. Patty would begin by doing the initial ground work and then I would swoop in with the steady hand for the tedious stuff. While carving them up we talked about how dark pumpkin carving can be. Stabbing, pulling out the innards, carving, and throwing away the remains. Yikes. I even took a drill to some of them. It felt wrong and therapeutic at the same time. I think maybe we've been watching too much Dexter.

We thought that we might try to make some pumpkin seeds to eat. Admittedly, we both had never really enjoyed eating pumpkin seeds before. They seem to have the same curse as popcorn kernels. They get stuck in your teeth and the back of your throat for days. I've never been able to figure out if it's worth it or not. Patty had higher hopes. She jumped on the computer and looked up "good pumpkin seed recipes." Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Seeds is what we settled on. Patty did all the work and they turned out fantastic. I mean, you can't really go wrong with Martha Stewart. She always pulls through. Just last month she taught me how to fold a fitted bed sheet. Thanks, Martha.

Of course we couldn't have just any run of the mill pumpkin. Patty and I are pretty much always set on being original. Even if it takes some extra work. And you know, a few extra hours. In the end we were happy with the result.

Before we knew it, Halloween was here. And so began the costume conundrum. What am I going to be? How can I be original? How can I spend no money? Patty decided on being a 20s flapper girl. She was going to look great per usual. Now, I had my heart set on being Daria for the past four years and have never been able to pull it off for one reason or another. Again, this year Daria was a no go. Should I be pollution again? No, although the trash bag is equally flattering on all body types, it just doesn't breathe well. Finally it came to me. Eeyore. Over my lifetime I have been called Eeyore more than I'd like to admit. I think it's my lack of excitability, or my dry humor, or maybe my passive face. Either way, I thought I'd take the chance to poke a little fun atmyself. With a little yarn, fabric, ribbon, and strategically placed velcro, I had crafted my Eeyore ensemble. Or grensemble, as my sister likes to call it. (A grey ensemble). Halloween turned out to be a pretty good night.

In other news, November is Rilo's birthday month. She's been interrogating Patty about why she hasn't received any presents yet. Happy 3rd Birthday, HoverCat.

This has been Ashley, and it's fall happenings.

New York, New York

2009-10-18T16:49:00.000-07:00

I went to New York last month. I saw a few familiar faces, and got aquatinted with some new ones. I had a really great time. Here are some pictures from my trip.

Bon Iver

2009-10-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

Patty here. So it’s sad really, that I don’t get excited about shows much any more. Going to a lot of them can do that to you. I don’t wait in line before doors. I don’t battle the crowd for the best view. I don’t take pictures to capture a moment that, who are we kidding, can’t really be captured. And I especially don’t expect to leave a show feeling rejuvenated, alive, or cleansed. But I can’t say that Ashley or I didn’t feel all of those things and more leaving through the double doors of The Paramount on Sunday.

It’s the only venue in town that could have housed the beautiful music of Bon Iver, the passionate voice of Justin Vernon, suspended somewhere between a whisper and a yell. The majestic walls of The Paramount theatre gave way to acoustics that didn’t request but demanded your attention, unlike the humble members of the band. They unassumingly took the stage and opened the set with “Flume.” Later on in the set, a new light was shed on the 80s hit song “Your Love,” in a completely original, non-cheesy sort of way.

Vernon was left alone on stage in a single spotlight for “Re:Stacks,” one of my favorites where he manages to express some heavy sentiments with minimal lyrics. To my surprise, this one made watery things start coming out of my eyes. I quickly wiped them away feeling embarrassed and vulnerable. But I realized I wasn’t the only one quickly turning into a blubbering baby, when I heard sniffles coming from every direction. I leaned back in my chair and Ashley asked me if I was crying. As if it wasn't obvious, "Yes." - "Me too," she said. The music of Bon Iver lends itself extremely well to personal reflection, which became physically evident that night.

There is detail in the album, For Emma, Forever Ago, which you wouldn’t think could be properly conveyed on stage, but you’d be wrong. All of the musicians were constantly aware of the sounds being made, as if they knew we could all hear them breathing. All the audible elements, all of what some people might refer to as, the “noise” was part of an orchestrated plan. I suppose that’s redundant, but it’s like watching a movie and seeing all the atmosphere shots, the shots of wind blowing the leaves, coffee steaming from a mug, a desk full of paperwork. The audience got a full context of each composition. It almost transported me to the remote cabin in Northwestern Wisconsin, where Vernon originally wrote, and recorded most of the album.

There was a moment in particular that is worth recounting. Vernon prefaced the closing song, “Wolves (Act I and II),” with a request that the audience help sing the chorus line. At this point, emotionally drained and willing, we would have done just about whatever he wanted us to. Everyone began softly singing, “what might’ve been lost,” in unison. The song kept building as the chorus slowly got louder, as the drums got more intense, and the guitars became almost harsh. It felt like a huge surge of emotional release, as if everyone was letting go all at once.

It’s almost futile trying to explain this experience, because my words inevitably won’t do this show justice. That being said, Bon Iver was the best, most impassioned performance Ashley and I have ever seen in our lives. But then again I’m only 22, so there’s still time for topping.

The camera is not my medium of choice; I prefer the pen. But here is a video of Bon Iver's performance of "Skinny Love."

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This Bon Iver concert review was published in Soundcheck Magazine.

Go to the Mattresses!

2009-09-20T12:54:00.000-07:00

There are about 4,000 species of cockroaches in the world. 30 of which are found in human habitations. Of that 30, 4 are considered pests. Patty and Ashley don’t know which kind they have, but scientific classification of this insect is hardly relevant when two squealing girls are jumping on the bed and throwing random household objects at the walls in the middle of the night.

It all started about a month ago when Patty spotted such a pest above Ashley’s bedroom door. The two of them proceeded to throw a fit and do, what has now become a ritual dance, in the dining room. Much like a ceremonial bonfire, the two dance and jump around their weapons of choice, a bottle of Raid, a roll of paper towels and a pink converse shoe, while shaking both hands in the air. One will say, “It’s so big,” which will usually lend itself to the other saying “that’s what she said;” a little comedic relief to the very serious situation at hand.

Wikipedia notes that the centipede is the most effective control agent of cockroaches, but Ashley and Patty find centipedes themselves quite objectionable. They waited until another three incidences occurred before calling about pest control. Here is a documentation of one of those incidences.

Shortly after this night, Patty called the front office. She spoke to a very nice lady on the other end of the line who said nonchalantly, “Well, it is roach season,” with a little giggle. There’s nothing funny about finding a roach in any condition, in any part of your home. A few days later, a handsome young man came a knockin’. You could call him their knight in shining uniform. He came prepared to slay the enemy. He sprayed around the whole apartment while exchanging witty banter with Ashley, reminding her that they made a stop in the complex weekly. So, maybe it wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world if we had to invite him back. *Sigh* Getting sidetracked, sorry.

The two thought all would be well. They finally felt safe in their little home, until last night. Patty heard Ashley calling her into the bedroom. She knew from the pit of her stomach that the tone is Ashley’s voice was one of despair.

“It’s somewhere on my bed,” Ashley said.

Patty tip toed further into the room, grabbed the corner of the comforter and flung it from the mattress to reveal a cockroach.

“That’s not the one I found,” Ashley pointed and yelled, “That’s not the one I found.”

Now, not only on the bed, but in the bed, the situation reaches a whole new level of, like, totally gross. After the discovered met his demise via pink converse shoe, we went on ransacking the sheets in search of the escapee. Finally it was found clinging to the side of the box spring. After a moment of collection, Ashley went in for the kill. She struck once, then twice, then thrice with the ultimate decapitation. Patty fetched the paper towels as Ashley proclaimed, “There is no amount of paper towels between my hand and the bug that makes me feel okay about picking it up.” It’s like the story of Princess and the Pea. Only a real princess has such delicate skin that she can feel a pea through twenty mattresses and twenty featherbeds.

She noticed it hadn’t been completely destroyed.

“It’s backpedaling,” she yelled! Patty grabbed the Raid and finished the job once and for all. Both predators were promptly flushed down the toilet. Hopefully this will be some kind of mafia warning to their hairy-legged friends in the pipes.

This has been Patty and Ashley with a whole new respect for “going to the mattresses.” Thanks for nothing, Rilo.

da 'Burgh

2009-09-12T10:57:00.000-07:00

Last week I traveled Northeast to the beautiful land of trees, steel, and ketchup called Pittsburgh.

I got on the plane and was prepared to do the whole shuffle-to-the-back-next-to-the-toilet thing but was happy to see my ticket said I was in row 6. It turns out that row 6 is the last row of first class. I didn’t buy first class tickets, and I was unaware of any upgrades that might have been made so I was a bit confused. But who am I to question the airline? I took my seat and was immediately handed a glass of wine before all the passengers were even on the plane. I could feel their jealous stares. It was great. I half expected someone to tell me that I was in the wrong seat but no one said a word. I guess I got away with that one. During the rest of the flight I lounged in my seat next to no one and was given, a bowl of warm nuts, a hot towel, a salad, and salmon dinner. As I enjoyed another glass of wine I reclined and watched distant lightening storms with the big dipper, huge, out side my window. If this ever happens to you, I recommend the Sigur Rós album Með Suð Í Eyrum Við Spilum Endalaust as the perfect soundtrack.

The next day, my dad, his wife Chris, and I drove to the cabin they share with his brother Mark and his wife Lynn. It still always surprises my dad when his daughters from the flat lands of Texas get car sick while driving on hilly and winding roads in the mountains. I managed to keep my breakfast down while catching him up on my life lately.

My dad and uncle are still fixing up the cabin so while they were busy with that I spent most of my time with my cousin Vinny. I know. What can I say. We are Italian. Vinny served as my own personal tour guide of the property by taking me on a quad drive pointing out creeks, beaver dams, fire pits, tree stands, deer feeders, and the like. Although, I kind of had to guess what he was saying because he was driving so fast between the trees that I was more focused on just trying to hold on and not getting smacked by a tree branch. He’s 11 and he drives fast.

The next day Vinny and I went on a walk through our property. We came to one of his favorite spots where a huge log crosses over the “crik.” That’s creek to you. He walked across and when he got to the middle I was supposed to take his picture. I got out my Polaroid camera and found the perfect spot to snap the picture. Perfect, except for the fact that it was on top of a grounded bee’s nest. The next thing I know I’m covered in bees! I quickly realized that you couldn’t just brush them away like some other bugs. The only way to escape bees is to run away like a little girl and scream. I ran like a little girl and screamed. I dropped the camera. It’s broken. Here is the photo of me getting stung by bees.

After making it back to the cabin I took some Benadryl, got back in the truck to go home, and promptly fell asleep for the next two hours.

Sunday nights are for dinner at Grandma Rose’s house. It was really great to see her along with my dad’s sister Lori and her husband Bill. Before we ate dinner we ate some other food that could have been dinner. And then we ate Lasagna. And then dessert.

My dad took off of work on Monday and Tuesday to spend some time with me. Monday we went grocery shopping together, which was interesting because I don’t have any recollection of going shopping with him ever. Then we saw Star Trek at a 99 cent movie theatre. We got there much too early so we ate most of our popcorn before the movie even started and talked about other movies for about an hour. I thought the movie was great, but it was especially great because I used to watch the TV show with my dad so it seemed fitting. We went straight from the movie to my dad’s shooting club. I love going there. It’s 20 minutes of shooting clay targets and then 3 hours of drinking. So I watched my dad shoot and then bellied up to the bar with a bunch of Yinzers over 40 and drank my weight in Yuengling. They all talk really loud, call eachother jaggoffs, make lewd jokes, and dote over me. And if they weren’t decked out in Steeler Nation black and gold, they were wearing shirts that say something like “You can’t drink all day if you don’t start in the morning.” or “It’s 5 o’clock somewhere…”

Tuesday my dad and I went to the Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History. He is the only other person I know that likes to stay at a museum as long as I do. If it were up to us we could get lost in there for an entire day. Actually, I think I could probably get lost in a single Monet for an entire day. The museum had a fantastic collection of just about everything. I’ll spare you the details because it could easily be turned into a 10 page essay about why I’m a nerd. We ended up staying for four hours only because we had to go eat dinner.

Most of Wednesday through Friday consisted of me doing some work, reading, and taking advantage of my dad’s On Demand movie channels.

Wednesday night my dad and I drank together and made dinner. A recipe that he has now named Ashley’s Chicken.

Thursday my Grandma came to pick me up for lunch. We had a really good time. We ate a lot. She is full of infinite wisdom. I also made dinner using the tomatoes and basil I had picked from our backyard garden.

Friday night we all went back up to the cabin. I decided not to walk around the woods this time, which I think made Vinny a little angry, but I didn’t feel like getting attacked again. I thought that maybe this time it wouldn’t be bees but bears. A mother and cub black bear have been spotted multiple times walking around our property.

Saturday Mark’s friend Bill took Vinny, my other cousin Shalynn, and me out on the lake in his boat. Bill and I drank beer, Shaylynn relaxed, and Vinny was dragged behind the boat on a tube.

Sunday, I was back in Austin by 11:00 am after two more first class flights. I left out a lot of details but they mostly consist of me drinking and eating a lot with my family. Because that’s what they do, and I love it. The only thing I didn’t get a chance to do was go dahntahn to da strip and get a Permanee's sammich while I was der hangin out an ‘nat.

This has been Ashley, and I love da ‘Burgh.

TweedleG

2009-09-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

"How do ya do and shake hands

and state your name and business.

That's manners!"

Hi. How are you? My name is Ashley Giovannitti and I'm a Graphic Designer. I've been in Austin for three months now and I finally feel settled in. That means it's time that I fully embrace the freelance world. I've just launched my portfolio website www.TweedleGDesign.com. Here you can find examples of my work, my resume, and lots of ways to get in contact with me. You can also find me on several social networking sites.

Follow me on Twitter.

Be a fan on Facebook.

Connect with me on LinkedIn.

If you're a constant reader of the blog (hi, mom) I bet I already know if you do or don't need some design work. If you're a new reader (hello!) it's safe to say I don't know what you need. Either way I would love to network with you, and I would so appreciate your support. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you or some one you know. Logos, brochures, flyers, posters, wedding invitations, birth announcements, stickers, wine labels, you name it. Let's talk.

This has been TweedleG, and it's all happening.

Holding Down the Fort

2009-09-02T11:54:00.000-07:00

Last week or so, Ashley, Justin Kirchhoff and I went to see Jason Poe sing at Flipnotics. He's the lead singer for Jets Under Fire, a really great local band in Austin. I think his solo material is very early Chris Martin. Check it out yourself! Click the image below to get his latest EP for free.

As some of you might already know. Ashley is out of town this week. She’s visiting family in Pittsburgh. That's approximately 1,418 miles away from home, but Rilo and I are holding down the fort. I don’t let her sleep with me because I’m afraid she’ll knock over the glass of water on my bedside table. So at about 9:10 a.m. every morning she starts crying outside my door, which is good because I usually shut off my alarm when it goes off at 9:00 a.m.

Before Ashley left, we started a Rodney Yee Morning Yoga challenge. That’s right we’re putting an end to the ice cream and booze binge, (okay maybe just the ice cream), and getting these lazy butts into shape. I’ve forced myself to continue the challenge even while she’s away, excluding today on account of girlie cramps.

The second day flying solo, I met up with Chance and Andrew for breakfast at Magnolia’s. Andrew is constantly on a strict diet, but Saturdays are his cheat days. According to Andrew, any edibles consumed on a Saturday is void of calories, grams of fat and health risks. After breakfast, we went “house shopping.” None of us are looking for a house, but we saw some neat modern houses on the East side, like this one. It’s being designed by Nicole Blair of Studio 512 for his mother. This house will probably be featured in Dwell Magazine next month.

I don’t know what’s come over me, but I’ve been feeling tempted to adopt a cat lately. From the local animal shelters advertising $25 cat specials, to free kittens being given away on Facebook. They’re everywhere. But if I were to bring home a kitty, Rilo would probably claw its eyes out. So I’ll do these kittens the favor of offering no home, which is better than offering the home from hell with Rilo the ultimate cat of terror and destruction waiting to devour her unsuspecting baby prey. Plus…Ash would kill me.

I’ve started babysitting a little bit just to get out of the apartment. This is Emerson. He’s just a big ball of baby fat cuteness, teething like no tomorrow.

Ash should be blogging about her new web site soon enough. She’s a real bona fide designer now. She’s already got over 100 fans on the TweedleG Facebook Page. I am the proud Mom that gets the photo albums out whenever we have company. This has been Patty and Rilo, and we miss Ashley.

* * *

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter has many more animals in need of homes than they have willing adopters. If you're in the market for a furry friend, please check them out.

Summerfest

2009-08-12T15:16:00.000-07:00

I Win.

2009-08-05T13:40:00.000-07:00

Patty here...

So, I don’t usually win many things like contests and raffles, but lately I’ve been winning left and right. I entered into a give-away with Live Surface – which is a site artists and designers can purchase layered image templates to display their work. I don’t necessarily need it, but Ashley does, so I entered to increase her chances. Then I logged onto DO512 to enter the Summer Fest give-away. Summer Fest is a 2-day outdoor concert held in Houston. This year, Broken Social Scene and Explosions In the Sky are the biggest names on the lineup.

Well, wouldn’t you know it…I won 25 credit images on LiveSurface.com for Ashley, and this weekend, we’re both trucking down to Houston for Summer Fest. We’re staying with my friend Mandy.

Oh also, Wyatt Brand, a public relations firm in Austin, just gave me a free Herff Christiansen shirt, candles and poster, for helping out with the Austin Fashion Awards.

Did I mention I just got a great deal on a new car? Okay, its not new, but practically. I got a 2008 Toyota Corolla LE. They took my piece of crap Cougar for $2,000. I win, and it’s all happening.

LIST-en, We're Sorry

2009-07-27T22:27:00.000-07:00

We’ve been super busy. It is, in fact, all happening, and it’s hard to keep up with; which is why
1. This week’s blog is significantly longer
2. It’s late, and
3. We again promise to write more frequently with fewer paragraphs.

At the beginning of last week, our power went out. It was about 3:30 p.m. Immediately following a loud siren right above Ashley’s computer, which scared the living day light out of Rilo, it began to get very warm in our apartment. Ashley came out of her roffice, (that’s short for room office), and sat on the couch next to me. We looked at each other with apprehension about what was to become of our day. There was more work to be done and endless tweets to be read. But then we quickly realized this could mean we had to take a day off from work. Oh darn! So we brainstormed about what to do instead.
Ashley said, “How about we watch a mov-…nope.”
“Oh, I got it,” I said “Let’s heat up some foo-, or listen to mus-“
GASP! – It was much worse than we thought. We were totally useless. So we went to check the mail and take out the trash like everyone else in the apartment complex. Some people were walking their dogs. Rilo watched them all go back and forth from the windowsill in the lining room, (that’s short for the library/dining room. We make the most of our space).
Squinting our eyes like we’d never seen the sun, we walked back to the apartment only to think of these things we wish we had during this power outage.

1. Ear plugs (to mute the incessant beeping from the fire closet outside our door)
2. Battery operated fan
3. Portable dvd player
4. Compact electric stove to heat our leftovers by

We had almost convinced ourselves that eating everything in the fridge would be the right thing to do so as not to waste anything, when the power popped on. Back to work...

- - -

Ashley here – Over the weekend, some friends and I found out about this organized group of bar crawlers and decided it would be fun to go along, only we crawled on bikes and went 30 minutes ahead of the group so we could get seating and quick service. It worked out quite well until I realized it was 2:30 in the morning and I still had to sluggishly pedal myself 3 miles home on a bike not so suitable for hills.

I rediscovered how much I love reading. Here are some books I have read recently:
1. Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
2. Life of Pi by Yann Martel
3. Manifesto by Anonymous

And here are some good movies I’ve seen lately:
1. Jurassic Park (at the Paramount downtown with friends)
2. Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince (alone except for two people in the theatre)
3. 500 Days of Summer (at Alamo Drafthouse with Patty)

In other news, Rilo needed new litter so I went to the pet store and bought some organic cedar litter in attempts to be greener. Plus it was twice as cheap and it smelled twice as good. Rilo waited patiently beside me as I prepared her box. She made it clear how she felt about the new litter by promptly taking care of business just outside the box. Apparently Rilo scoffs at eco-friendly kitty litter and refuses to shit on anything less than pure gold. We’re trying to work with her on this.

Patty here – It was a big week for The Soldier Thread.

1. We were on the news, and

2. We attended our first red carpet event, the Austin Fashion Awards, which we also performed at.

The boys ogled the models on stage and met some pretty girls afterwards. And there were many other reasons why I also enjoyed myself.

1. Not having to set up my own gear

2. Having a dressing room with a shower and restroom (even though I didn’t use them)

3. Setting up behind a big red curtain

4. Playing for a big crowd, and

5. The after party with free booze, where award winning fashion designer Johnathan Kayne kissed my hand. Let’s just say, I could get used to this.

Also, I was home for most of last week trying to get rid my piece of crap mercury cougar and find a different set of wheels. No luck as of yet, so I’m driving Mom’s Kia.

Things Ashley did to make the apartment feel less Patty-deprived.
1. Listened to Metric (a Patty favorite)
2. Listened to The Soldier Thread (Patty’s band)
3. Ate cucumber salad (Patty’s recipe)
4. Watched Showtime series ‘Weeds’ (another Patty favorite)

This has been Patty and Ashley and you know what's been happening.

Away We Wait

2009-07-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

Patty here. So, I’m back and yes I skipped a week of blogging. I had to look over my twitter feed to remember what to talk about. I’ve been pretty busy catching up on work and band stuff since I got in from the cruise. Airport security confiscated my Bath & Body Works Wild Honeysuckle body cream. I was pissed. You probably want to know how the trip went though. Here’s the Reader’s Digest version: We ate a lot, we slept a lot, we drank a lot, and we got sunburns. I’m peeling in patches all over my back. I wish I could climb out of my old skin, and end this itchy mess in one fell swoop. Tip: If you’re going on a cruise, plan to spend about $10-$13 for every alcoholic drink. On the up side, you can start a collection of cheesy plastic Norwegian Cruise Line cups while you’re there. Upon my return, Rilo acted like I was a stranger about to ransack the apartment. I'm still waiting for her to come cuddle in my lap.

I went to see “Away We Go” at Alamo Drafthouse last weekend with Ash, Brett, and Ray. If you haven’t seen it, you must! It was probably the best film I’ve seen this year. John Krasinksi [The Office] plays an expecting father, and husband to wife, Maya Rudolph [Saturday Night Live], as they travel the U.S. in search of the perfect place to raise their family. Maggie Gyllenhaal plays a really annoying pretentious woman that reminds me of some of the hippie Austin folk, but her role almost made me pee in my pants. The movie also features music by Alexi Murdoch, which you must look into as well. I laughed until I cried and almost regurgitated my Angus burger, and then I cried. Go see it.

A few days ago, Todd and I were determined to make fried pickles. My Facebook status that day seemed to be a hot topic. I am happy to report that they turned out great. We just used an egg and milk wash with a flour and Tony Chachere’s seasoning batter. Bon Apatite!

7/11 just passed – The day on which you can get free Slurpees from 7/11 gas stations and swim for free at Barton Springs. I took advantage of neither of these affordable activities due to “a collection of physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms related to a woman's menstral cycle,” according to Wikipedia. (Waiting for the storm to pass.)

Does anybody else watch ‘Weeds?’ I’ve been trying to get Ashley into it. I just finished Season 4, and I’ve seen the first episode of Season 5 on sho.com … SPOILER ALERT…Can you believe she’s pregnant??? I can’t discuss this any further. It makes me upset that I don’t even have basic cable, much less Showtime. (Waiting for Season 5.)

Good news: Texas State decided that I am eligible for the tuition rebate. Now I just have to wait for that 4-digit check to come in the mail. Is it too much to ask for this to be presented to me in the form of a big check at my front door by the Publisher’s Clearing House people? This is Patty and it's all happening while I wait.

Hot Stuff

2009-06-29T17:12:00.000-07:00

Ashley here. I want to start this one off by stating the obvious. It’s really really hot out there. Not just kind of hot. It’s over-100-everyday-Texas-summer-hot. Regardless, this past week I have spent a lot of my non-working time outside. So I’ve been sporting an eternal beaded mustache and sweating through shirts. And yes, I tend to wear more than one shirt at a time and I realize it may seem pretty ridiculous, but I like layers. I'm trying to stop.

Monday 100°-- I went hiking in the Greenbelt, which I found to be a great way to trick myself into working out. I think my favorite part was when my friend Brett and I were on a small path and were approached by a running group coming from the opposite direction. The leader yelled “WALKERS! WALKERS!” and we stepped off the trail so the group of them could pass in single file. I found it pretty hilarious. I don’t really think it was absolutely necessary for him to call me out for going for a recreational walk through the woods. But who knows, maybe it was the adrenaline from dodging branches and avoiding sprained ankles that made him do it.

Thursday 105°-- I braved the heat again to play some sand volleyball with friends. As this was the day of Michael Jackson’s death, there was a boom box playing the best of Michael Jackson, naturally. I don’t know if it was as much of game as it was a retrospect of MJ’s life and tribute dance party for some. Following the game there was a gathering at a friend’s apartment to listen to Off The Wall and Thriller on vinyl.

Saturday 102°-- My friends Brett, Molly, Patrick, and I took an incredibly scenic drive to Blanco. After living in Dallas and Fort Worth it still amazes me how green and hilly everything is here. In Blanco, we visited the Real Ale Brewery for their 13th anniversary. We set up camp in the best shade we could find and listened to music, ate food, drank beer, and took a tour of the brewery all for a whopping $0. Afterward, we went to the Blanco River and swam, talked to friendly strangers, and made friends with a dog named Lenny. To finish it off we turned at the one stoplight in the town and ate some delicious bar-b-que. On the way home, we found a fireworks stand on the side of the highway and stopped. Austinites really love their fireworks and know a lot about them. I, however, had no idea what was going on but was glad to be there.

That was the cliffs notes version but you get the idea. There was also great food, movies, and company this week. Join us next week as Patty recaps us on her cruise. This is Ashley, and it’s all happening in the heat.

Daddy's Girls

2009-06-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

So, this past week started off fairly well. I was super excited to receive my first paycheck, even though half of it went to my Discover card bill, and Ashley finished up a logo design for our personal trainer friend, McHugh Body Design.

Wednesday, we were cordially invited to “chill” at Barton Springs with Wolfman and Thundersticks, (aka Todd and Drew). The boys spent a lot of time in the freezing water, I soaked in the sun, and Ash read a book in the shade. If you’ve never been, it’s a great place to people watch. There’s lots of earthy people showing off their tattoos, classical guitar skills, and summer bods – good and bad. We especially enjoyed the view of a middle-aged man with a pregnant woman’s stance, wearing nothing more than a speedo-like spanky.

Friday, The Soldier Thread played the St. Vincent after-party at The Mohawk, a venue downtown. Ash and Brett saw Annie Clark packing up her equipment as they were leaving around 1:30 a.m. and got to tell her “good show!” If you’ve never heard of her stuff, here’s a music video of her latest single, “Actor Out of Work.”

Ashley here. My cousin Brandon came in from California for a conference of some sort and stayed at the apartment. He had never been to Austin and the only other time he was in Texas was in the womb. We went hiking at the Greenbelt, swimming at Barton Springs, filled our bellies with barbeque at The Salt Lick, and went down to 6th street for the rest of the night. It was really good to see him.

In light of today being the recognized day to celebrate daddies across the nation, we’d like to mention that we love ours very much. And though we grew out of being carried around everywhere long ago, we’ll never grow out of being daddy’s girls.

This is Patty and Ashley and it's all still happening.

The ISH

2009-06-11T13:37:00.000-07:00

First off, so sorry it’s been too long since we’ve updated you on what all is happening over here, so this one will be stuffed with news, but we’ll try to keep it short and sweet.

“Hover Cat” -- Exhibit A:

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Patty’s Jamaican pen pal, Sygia (Sih-gee-uh), came to visit for a couple weeks. She had her first Mexican food dish, her first peach, went to her first concert, saw the capital and experienced the bats fly over the Congress Bridge. It was pretty interesting to hear how different our culture is from hers. We also learned a new Jamaican slang term. Where we would use the word “shit” to describe something awesome, (example: “This movie is the shit.”), she would say it is the “ISH.” We may include this in future entries, so keeping a log of vocab words might be a good idea.

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The Soldier Thread had a few shows over the past week or so in which they performed their first cover song. “Videotape” by Radiohead. C l i c k h e r e t o w a t c h t h e v i d e o .

Funny story though…at Stubb’s, where Ashley was the “merch girl,” she apparently caught someone’s eye. We know so because the very next morning, someone found and sent us this link.

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And long story short...Patty got in a fight with a lawn chair and ended up in a thorny bush…

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Ash’s new desk finally came in. Isn’t it cute?

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Ash has been a busy bee lately, running around Austin doing Austiny things like going to crazy Co-Op parties with naked people, attending free jazz concerts, supporting local pubs, and tubing. Patty has been sitting at home working mostly, being productive around the apartment and learning how to cook. So far, she's made ceviche, ooey gooey butter cake (it's a secret recipe), banana bread, biscuits, sausage gravy, and chicken soup. Mother would be proud.

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We think that's about all we have for you. Oh yeah! We also made a new mutual friend. Meet Ray Garza.

This is Patty and Ashley and it's all happening (in third person).

The Third Wheel

2009-06-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

Hi. My name is Rilo. People call me “hover-cat” and I’m not sure why. But I have to introduce myself because I live with two self-centered bitches that didn’t even think to include me, even though I live here too. I’ve put on a little weight, but this is the most current picture of me.

Ashley is mine and I just adopted Patty. They both make these long-ass lists and leave me at the house all alone for hours at a time. Like today, they left to go work out, and then to run “errands,” whatever that means. The only good thing about this is that they usually come back with some bags full of stuff that I like to crawl into once they’ve been emptied.

Anyway, I think I’m supposed to tell you what I did today. First I starred out the window at a cat that looked just like me. It was making all the same movements as me and it was pretty creepy. Then I got up on the counter tops and snooped around. I’m not aloud to do this when the girls are home. I ate a leaf off Patty’s bamboo plant, and lost a twisty tie under the fridge. Patty and Ashley finally got home around 4 p.m. That’s when I hid in the closet until they freaked out looking for me. Ashley helped me find the lost twisty tie under the fridge. I knew I kept her around for a reason.

I’ve been pretty content since Ashley and I moved here. It’s a whole new place to explore, and I’m meeting a lot of new people. But I never leave the house, and Patty and Ashley are always in their own little world, making me the third wheel. But I'm compensated by an abundance of head-scratching and a brand new lap to lounge in...

This is Rilo, and I'm constantly being told, "It's all happening."

Good Chi

2009-05-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

The much anticipated apartment warming was a success; not only the actual event but the events in the day that preceded it. I woke up early to do some freelance graphic design work. I’m still trying to adjust to working at home, and being in charge of my own time which is strange. All before noon, I obtained a new client and was asked my design opinion by a seasoned professional, and Patty landed a social media/online marketing position with very competitive pay. Needless to say, our new space is vibrating good chi into our lives. There is nothing but success in this new apartment, and you should make a point to come over and let some of it seep into your bones.

After business was taken care of, we ran some errands in preparation of our first get-together. We were excited about having people over, so much so that we frantically hung pictures, vacuumed, shoved miscellaneous items into drawers and closets, learned to cook, and made a play list that admittedly had too much dance music on it.

And although none of the people I invited actually showed up, our mutual friends were a zesty bunch that got zestier as the night progressed. The wine was flowing, and conversation was lively. I think everyone had a good time. And I know everyone enjoyed the food. We served Hummus, ceviche, salmon snacks, Grandma's cookies and ooey gooey butter cake (partially eaten prior to any guest having arrived).

Pictures were taken and the "Patty-Cam" was unleashed. Observe...

For everyone that came and left the beer, thanks. You can make it your excuse for coming over again in the future. But we know why you’re coming back, and we’ll just keep that between us.

This has been Patty and Ashley, and it’s all happening.

Carpe IKEA

2009-05-24T00:00:00.001-07:00

Ashley and I woke up around 8 a.m. this morning and made a to-do list that would have us driving all over Austin. Good thing we didn’t check the weather or we might not have gotten any of it done, and it definitely wouldn’t have been as interesting.

I found out that Ashley is prejudice against regular Targets. In lieu of us not finding anything good there, we decided to trek over to IKEA in Round Rock. We were about 2 miles away, when Ashley’s windshield wipers couldn’t keep up with the sudden highway monsoon. As we arrived, there were about 50 people in line at the door. Signs read, “Seize the Day,” and a man carrying a megaphone was directing people. We had no clue what was going on, but I turned to Ashley and said, “I want a golden ticket!”

We sat in the car for about 10 minutes debating whether or not to make a run for it, or wait out the rain, but as soon as we noticed IKEA employees handing things out to the early birds, we knew we had to obey the signs. We rolled up our pants, stuffed our sandals in our purses, and on the count of 1, 2, 3, ran between the rain drops.

We were handed a coupon guaranteeing us a pair of $10 curtains, and a free breakfast. Lucky us! I didn’t realize people went so crazy over Swedish furniture, but the megaphone man made it clear that if there was any pushing or shoving, he would ask us to leave. Luckily, Ash and I were in no hurry at all. In fact, we spent over 2 hours perusing the store in search of whatever caught our eye.

After almost forgetting a lamp at the register, which would have been a bitch to return for, we got the car all packed up and ready to go. Feeling excited and accomplished, seatbelts buckled, and prepared to seize the rest of the day, Ashley stuck the key into the ignition and turned with vigor. Silence…All seizing came to a halt with a dead battery. It wasn’t long before a strapping young man noticed two damsels in distress and offered a jump, which I thought to be pretty fortunate, seeing as though neither of us had showered and weren’t looking up to par.

In any case, we were back on track in no time. Our day was filled with dumpster runs and finding feng shui in our new space. (Before and after pictures coming soon.) Basically, we seized the day, and we’re determined to seize everyday one day at a time. This is Patty and Ashley, and it’s all happening.