Gashapon…And where can I get one!

I am completely addicted to all things cute! It's really no secret, and the Japanese… know cute. I have stumbled upon something new to love, and obsess over. It's called a Gashapon Machine. Basically, it is a cooler version of our toy vending machines with better surprises inside, somewhere along the lines of KinderSuprises.  

Gashapon or Gachapon is made up of two sounds: "gacha" for the turning of a crank on a toy vending machine, and "pon" for the sound of the toy capsule dropping. (Wikipedia) 

In simpler terms, adults probably love them just as much or, in my case, even MORE than kids.

This Gashapon Machine can be found at welovemomiji.co.uk. It is actually at their shop but for online purposes they will drop in some coins and send you, your surprise. I know not as exciting as actually doing it yourself, but just look at what's inside!

Photos:welovemomiji.co.uk

Visit welovemomiji.co.uk to see more of the delightful surprises inside.

Orla…you will be MINE!

OK! So I have seriously wanted an Orla Kiely Bag, since… well Forever! Well here is what's inline for Spring 2009! And this one I will get! I promise to wash the dishes everynight, take out the trash and… oh wait, that only worked with my parents. Hmmm…I'll have to come up with a better plan.

Photo: Print&Pattern

It's the same delightful Orla Kiely pattern, only this time the background is a lovely linen, crosshatch detail. I think that is what I love about it the most!

Seriously Cute!

I just stumbled, literally, stumble!, upon this adorable site, Inspire Company. Not only is the blog amazing and the Featured Artists section inspiring, but I found a couple of little items I simply MUST have! Take a look.

       

Images: Inspire Company

Bella Dia… It certainly is!

Thank goodness for this gal! I still have shopping to do, so needless to say I haven't even begun to wrap gifts yet! Bella Dia has compiled what seems like an endless list of FREE gift tags! Bless her. All these wonderful artists sharing their work, with deligthful tags for you to use til your heart's content. Just remember to give credit where credit is due and drop them a line to say thank you.

Gift Tags:theblackapple.typepad.com

Light, Lovely and Inspiring... corid at etsy.

I found this absolutely amazing illustrator via etsy front page this morning, and I am in love with every print she has to offer. They are light and whimsical, dainty and precious. Her illustrations are carefully drawn upon vintage textbooks, maps, and handwritten vintage papers, then set upon maple plywood.

She admits to loving anything "shiny or sparkly"... we could be friends! Visit her blog to get a look at the sweetest Christmas tree ever, adorned beautifully with her very own ornaments. I am inspired to make my very own next year (I'd better start planning now). I'll hopefully get some Christmas cash to buy one of her pieces by the New Year. I have my eye on fruitful labor.

     

Images: corid.etsy.com

Lovely Little Finds No.6

I'm back, it's been a long long time since my last post. I tend to get caught up in all things Holiday. My New Year's resolution will definitely have something to do with this blog. 

I have made some lovely discoveries this morning via Etsy front page and Twitter. 

I'll start with this adorable bit of breakfast food. I am in love, love, love with felt and all the amazing things people are doing with it. These strawberry pop tarts are from BeckyM at etsy. She has some lovely little foods, including bow tie pastas and Red Velvet Cake slices, all beautifully made.

You can learn more about Becky and her creative process at the little red suitcase. The Little Red Suitcase is a delightful blog I came across via Twitter (thanks for following). Visit, and enjoy the crafter interviews. I'm sure there will be many great things to come on this excellent blog, now one of my favorites as well. Thanks Becky and ColoredSprinkleGirl for being so lovely.

Photos: BeckyM.etsy.com