bink & boo

The Interrupters

2012-02-17T06:51:00.000-08:00

"The Interrupters tells the moving and surprising stories of three Violence Interrupters who try to protect their Chicago communities from the violence they once employed. From acclaimed director Steve James and bestselling author Alex Kotlowitz, this film is an unusually intimate journey into the stubborn persistence of violence in our cities. Shot over the course of a year out of Kartemquin Films, The Interrupters captures a period in Chicago when it became a national symbol for the violence in our cities. During that period, the city was besieged by high-profile incidents, most notably the brutal beating of Derrion Albert, a Chicago High School student, whose death was caught on videotape.

The film’s main subjects work for an innovative organization, CeaseFire. It was founded by an epidemiologist, Gary Slutkin, who believes that the spread of violence mimics the spread of infectious diseases, and so the treatment should be similar: go after the most infected, and stop the infection at its source. One of the cornerstones of the organization is the “Violence Interrupters” program, created by Tio Hardiman, who heads the program. The Interrupters — who have credibility on the streets because of their own personal histories — intervene in conflicts before they explode into violence. " learn more

This movie rocked me to my core. I wish I had the courage to do what these men and women are doing. They are true leaders in the community, extraordinary examples of mankind, and true examples of hope and change. I am so touched by their passion, by their commitment, by their sacrifice. It's organizations like these, that our "Repurposed with Purpose" program is designed for. So I am happy to announce that a portion of bink & boo sales will be donated to CeaseFire. I hope that eventually Los Angeles and other cities can be positively affected by the good works of CeaseFire.

wishing you

2012-02-14T05:56:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to pop in, say hello, and wish you a lovely day. Any plans for Valentine's Day? I have a few tricks up my sleeve for friends, and a wonderful dinner (shrimp & grits) and dessert (chocolate chip cookie sunday) planned for my family. I am not a fan of this silly holiday, but I do think it's fun to do a little something special--not over the top--for friends and family.

Wishing you sunshine & cheer,
Bianca

image: via pinterest by way of Jose Villa on Instgram. Flower arrangement by Amy Osaba

inspiration to creation

2012-02-13T07:54:00.000-08:00

The "Laguna" collection is a medley of sweet, simple, and classic found fabrics evoking the spirit of the upscale beach town, Laguna Beach. SHOP THE COLLECTION

bronco image by Nicholas Maggio via I Heart Reps via pinterest
skateboard image via Beach-Bliss Tumblr via pinterest
Laguna Beach Sunset by Myan Soffia (available on etsy) via pinterest

Fave Find

2012-02-10T07:45:00.000-08:00

Recently my mom sent me two huge boxes filled with all sorts of goodies and gifts, chachkies from my childhood, and family treasures. My favorite find amongst all the nostalgic cache, my grandfather's Navy uniform. My grandfather is the very handsome sailor on the right. I had an idea of what I wanted to write about him, but honestly I can't seem to find words through my tears. This post is more emotional than I expected it to be. Sorry to be so silly about this, but I don't think I am ready to fully write this post.

Well this is an awkward. Uh....ummm...have a good weekend? For those who don't know me and are reading this, I write EXACTLY like I talk and this is how I would end this discussion. So....group hug, smiles all around, and I hope you all have an amazing weekend filled with sunshine & cheer!

a lot going on

2012-02-09T06:20:00.000-08:00

My eyes don't know where to look first, or what to focus on in this room. There is so much to appreciate, so many drool worthy pieces, and look at all the colorful furniture and accents. There's a lot going on this room, and I like all of it! But, (yes, I know you should never begin a sentence with "but". BUT...I don't care) the black leather (?) chair with the tiger print pillow is calling my name. What's your favorite piece?

image via pinterest

Happy Friday

2012-02-03T07:05:00.000-08:00

If I won the lottery, rather when I win the lottery (just puttin' it out there-wink wink), I will send all of you, my lovely readers, flowers on the first Friday after I receive my winnings. But, for now, this gorgeous arrangement by Honey of a Thousand Flowers will have to do. Wishing you a weekend filled with sunshine & cheer!

bink & boo style: hillary hart

2012-02-01T06:51:00.000-08:00

Hillary Hart keeps her look simple and fun, with tiny touches of luxury. Her motto: keep calm, don't cry. She prefers to flash her toothless smile, and finds that when she does, she almost always gets her way. Hillary Hart booties now available and ready to ship before valentine's day.

mini pom poms, cashmere sweater, cotton tee, skinny jeans, "hillary hart" booties

eye candy

2012-01-31T08:04:00.000-08:00

Aren't these necklaces by Sara at Noble House Design the most striking and beautiful baubles your eyes have ever seen?! Ok, maybe not ever, but pretty darn close. So fun, so fresh, and original! And look at her "about" page on her website (image below). I love this idea so much! Ugh, I want to do this so bad now, but I don't want to be a copycat. Meowww, I just might become one.

All images from Noble House Designs. Necklaces 1, 2, 3

taking it in

2012-01-30T05:38:00.000-08:00

We are having some unbelievable weather, even for Southern California, and we have been enjoying every minute of it. Things were a little slow at the construction site over the weekend so we grabbed a few trucks and headed to the beach. Saturday's sunset was stunning and stained the evening sky a vibrant orange, even the little one took a time out from his trucks to take it in. Man, weekends go by waaaaay to fast, especially when you pack them with sunshine, good friends, good food, laughter, and dancing (the worm, to be exact). How was your weekend? Did you dance? ;)

Cheers to a week filled with happy!
Bianca

Happy Friday!

2012-01-27T07:06:00.000-08:00

This place makes my heart sing. How fabulous would it be to live in such a vibrant building! I just adore those soft pink blossoms on the tree, they are the perfect little accent--although they would do some serious damage to my allergies. I hope you had a great week friends. Cheers to the weekend, may it be filled with sunshine & cheer!

image via pinterest, sourced from lifestyle bohemia

gift giving: clever & cost effective

2012-01-23T05:26:00.000-08:00

This weekend was packed with birthday party after birthday party--three to be exact. We already have several parties in the books for next month and I can only imagine the invitations will keep rolling in. To my relief, Bronson inspired a very clever, kind, and cost effective gift. Bronson kept asking me if he could bring his skateboards, cars, and special treats to the party to share with his friends. The kid was relentless. Struggling to find an answer that would cease his pesky begging, I finally thought of something after telling him no for umpteenth time. I asked Bronson if he would like to buy his friends a few of his favorite things and gift them. He was so excited by the idea (really his idea), and Roman and I were excited that we didn't have to break the bank to make a few little curtain climbers happy on their birthday. I included a fun note (see below) and had some fun with the packaging (which I forgot to photograph).

"You can never have enough Band-Aids...or Hot Wheels. Hope you're a fan of tech deck--I am! Oh and if your mom is anything like mine, goodies like these are scarce. TREAT YO' SELF! Happy birthday amigo."

Happy Monday friends!

Wishing you sunshine & cheer,
Bianca

favorites: gold fish, hot wheels, tech deck, m&m's, cars band-aids

SAMPLE SALE

2012-01-16T13:31:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year, time for us to clear our studio of samples, tests, and {very} lightly worn creations. Our sample sale goods might show slight wear, but are in great condition and ready to be delivered to you, or gifted to a friend. SHOP NOW, sale ends January 24th!

P.S. Have you joined our mailing list? Sign up today and enjoy 15%off your next order!

Little (one's) Obsession

2012-01-09T06:54:00.000-08:00

There is some serious construction going on across the street from our house, and Bronson has to monitor the action EVERYday. Each morning we load up the buggy with trucks and hard hats (he brings extra to share with other kids who might drop by--it's so sweet) and park ourselves on the sidewalk for an hour or so to play and enjoy our time together. This is Bronson's most favorite thing to do. All he talks about are trucks, and building things (well, occasionally he talks about swords and guns too, but mostly trucks). Sometimes I get lucky and he wants to go to the park to "play".

Happy Monday friends. Wishing you a week filled with sunshine & Cheer!

Happy Finds

2012-01-04T08:10:00.000-08:00

I can think of no better way to kick of the new year than with a seriously happy find--the totally adorbs mug. I am sad however to report that I only found one of these mugs, but! I thought the pattern looked familiar, so I began to rummage through my stash and look what I found! Last year sometime I bought this tablecloth, complete with festive and fun dingle ball trim. These two finds make me so happy, I love daisies--they remind me of my mom. If you are out and you see the mates to this mug, please pick them up for me! I would love to have 6, but I'll settle for 3,4, or oddly 5, and I don't want to pay more than $20. I am dreaming about a complete set and inviting friends over for coffee.

Wishing you sunshine & cheer!

Fresh

2012-01-02T07:34:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like the new year to make you appreciate a fresh start. I am looking forward to what 2012 has to offer and so happy to put 2011 behind me. I wasnt sure I wanted to bore you with my goals, but then I remembered this an online journal for myself--I am just fortunate to have some awfully kind folks who want to follow along and share in the journey. So here is a mixed bag of some of my goals both professional and personal. I would love to know what some of yours are.

*Make time for the little things, they make the biggest difference
*Be good with letting go, it will help you grow
*bink & boo in 20 stores in 2012
*Resume Saturday (long) runs with the hubs
*Be strong--physically
*Make time for myself each day--even if it's 5 mins
*Start each morning with prayer, scripture, and meditation
*No excuses
*Be more thoughtful
*Say yes more to Roman and Bronson
*Disneyland weekend
*Start speaking Spanish to Bronson
*Remember and hold tight to the lessons learned in 2011. God has awesome plans for me and my family, but slipping into old patterns will not allow us to grow as he desires.

Sunshine & Cheer friends!

image: sweet paul

Going out with a FIND!

2011-12-30T07:56:00.000-08:00

I just had to pop in one more time before the new year with the most incredible, awesome, colorful find. This dress was made for me! The color, the fabric, the details, the buttons, the style, the price. Ready for the draw dropper? Wait for it. . .wait for it. . .just one more second. . .$1! Yes, ONE SINGLE DOLLAR!!! I can't keep a deal like this under wraps, I have to shout with joy! Sometimes I can't believe my thrifting luck. Of course I will be ringing in the new year in this lovely little number, paired with black tights and pumps, I will feel festive even though I will just be hopping around our neighborhood to different parties. I do not like to travel far from home on nye. How about you, any big plans? Well friends, I'll see you back here next year.

Wishing you sunshine & {new year} cheer!
Bianca

Happy Birthday Bronson!

2011-12-29T07:29:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my little guy turned three. THREE!!! Oh, what a source of joy he has been in our lives and to this world. Bronson, you were a life changer. Thank you!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T06:00:00.001-08:00

image via WhatToExpect.com

Candy Colored Christmas

2011-12-21T06:09:00.000-08:00

via

Noel

2011-12-19T09:06:00.000-08:00

Can you believe Christmas is almost here?! It makes me sad to think that soon all this holiday cheer will be over, and the new year will begin, and before you know it summer will be here and--okay, let me stop before I send myself into a tailspin. Anywho, I thought it would be fun to wrap up this Christmas season with some of my favorite Christmas images from Pinterest. These ornaments are inspiring me to make more of my own. The pipe cleaner star/snowflake ornament is first on my list to make. . .for next year. ;)

image

The magic of Christmas

2011-12-16T10:45:00.000-08:00

It really is the most wonderful time of the year! Wouldn't you agree? There is something so magical about Christmas, especially when you have little ones. Bronson is old enough now to understand what Christmas is {really} about, and I am excited to begin to build the memories and traditions he will one day share with his children and family. Tonight we are going to decorate a gingerbread man. Sometime this weekend we are going to cruise the streets of San Diego ooh'ing and ahhh'ing over all the pretty lights while sipping hot cocoa and noshing on doughnut holes. Today we will do some baking and most likely enjoy hot cocoa--it's actually been cold here in Southern California and I have been enjoying the "freezing" temperatures before they're gone. The only thing that makes me sad about Christmas, we won't be celebrating it with my parents. This year has been financially challenging for our family. But, we are so blessed to have each other, a roof over our heads, {yummy} food on the table, our health, and hearts filled with sunshine & {holiday} cheer. Those really are the true gifts of life, and the riches we share as a family with our friends, make us one of the wealthiest families in the world.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays amigos!

image via

Just right

2011-12-12T07:42:00.000-08:00

I am off to buy some flowers for the studio today. I am a bit exhausted, and the gloomy weather has me feeling a bit ho-hum. I found a bag of sequins in my craft stash last week and I can't wait to recreate this look. Just the right amount of sparkle to help kick off the week--it's gonna be a busy one. How about you, do you have a full plate this week? Have you even started your Christmas shopping?

Oh, I almost forgot! Follow me over to Post Social for my "Fave Five" must haves for the DIY-er

Wishing you sunshine & cheer!

image via insidetheloop.tumblr.com

2011-12-08T07:10:00.000-08:00

Click here to see the other local designers and talents that will be joining us.

Doodads

2011-12-05T05:42:00.000-08:00

Kicking off the week with a little inspiration for you. I made these "doodads" (thanks Bethany) to decorate the tree for our pop-up shop over the weekend. I used all sorts of scraps and collected junk (the more the better), and some cotton twine to string everything together. There is no rhyme or reason when making something like this, just go crazy and have fun. They're quick and easy to make, and I think they would be fun Christmas gifts for friends--you can customize them to their collected style.

I plan on making more and turning them into my business cards for the media and retailers. Happy Monday amigos!

Wishing you sunshine & cheer!
bink

The tree is up!

2011-11-28T07:39:00.000-08:00

I had a serious case of creative a.d.d. this weekend. In between getting ready for two pop-ups next month, and sewing orders, I had the overwhelming urge to decorate the studio for Christmas. I have been dying to "put up" my tree from m.o.m. Isn't it fun! Ok, so I went a little overboard with the sparkles and glue gun, but sometimes I just don't know when to stop. (It's the Latina in me). I adorned the tree with vintage buttons (some from my great, great, grandmother), a deconstructed gold necklace, and a vintage broach my mother gave me.

I was never into Barbie as a little girl, but I like her now. In small doses. These were my grandmothers, I am surprised that she had them--not really her style, maybe they reminded her of her younger days.

I found this necklace at an estate sale back in August, and haphazardly hung it here. I like the way it shines in the Christmas lights. I still have some more decorating to do in the studio, but this is as far as I got before I was distracted with something else to do--GLITTER-IZING STUFF!

Have you begun to decorate for the holidays? Is your tree up? Be sure to check out M.O.M and their fun selection of Christmas Tree's and other lovely creations. I think Bronson needs the "traditional tree" for his room.