Inspira Boards: August 2011

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Dad

I'll let the pictures do the talking for this one. These are images from childhood of things that remind me of my dad. Love you.

Sources:

Dashel's New Collar - Pictures as Promised

It was easier said than done to get him to sit still for collar pictures. He flopped himself against a couch and wouldn't budge. His new tag still hasn't arrive, but there's his shiny new collar. Isn't he handsome?

Friday, August 26, 2011

Saltwater Fish

I have been a marine aquarium owner for a few years now, and I have to say I wouldn't have it any other way. It is definitely expensive to get started, but once established and maintained it is very enjoyable to just sit back and watch. The reason I got started with the hobby is that there is nothing else like it. Having a little piece of the ocean in your house is something that I can't describe.

Now there are various different ways to set up your aquarium. With or without coral, different sorts of filtration and water movement systems, etc. I have found what I enjoy most is having just fish. I love watching them. There is such a fascinating variety of them available for at home, it is a little overwhelming at first. Once you have it narrowed down to a compatible group and everyone is settled in there is a feeling of immense satisfaction. The colors and patterns are hypnotizing to view. I have found that I watch them more than I watch TV/movies. It is sure a good thing that there wasn't a marine aquarium in school growing up.

For me with the fish it is more than just their colors and shapes. They have individual personalities and it becomes very endearing to see them interact together and even with you. I love when they greet me at the front of the tank in the morning and how they swarm to the top at feeding time. I thoroughly enjoy feeding different foods to suit every fish's needs and watching them swim back to their favorite areas, full and content.

All of the fish pictured above are available for home aquariums. There are literally hundreds of different fish you may select for your tank. Some are easier to take care of than others (and are strongly recommended for beginners) but with experience you can branch out to other varieties. Be sure to visit plenty of online forums and help sites (my recommendations: Reef2Reef, WetWebMedia, and definitely find a local club) before starting and during setup. It also helps if you have a good local fish store (LFS).

Sources:

Dwarf Flame Angelfish http://fishville.invantix.com/fish/img/FlameAngelfish.jpg
Cortez Angelfish http://week.divebums.com/6months/angelfish-cortez-juvenile_donna-shelley.jpg
Lyretail Anthias http://www.alfreddifalcoelectric.com/maleAnthias.jpg
Longhorn Boxfish http://www.thatstopten.com/images/strangefish/longhorn.jpg
Saddleback Butterflyfish http://waterworld.pk/images/fishes/butterfly/106304-Saddleback%20Butterflyfish-Chaetodon%20ephippium.jpg
Kaudern’s Cardinalfish http://www.nemotropicaux.com/images/Photo/Banggai%20Cardinal_grand.jpg
Oscellaris Clownfish http://www.dirjournal.com/info/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/Ocellaris-clownfish-1.jpg
Blue Sapphire Damselfish http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSNgWMntRqeNe5bMK7AeKCBecz6H2K6exK1Y6I920d_RKDDS0gJCg
Helfrichi Firefish http://www.dereksreefshop.ca/images/products/helfrich.jpg
Orchid Dottyback http://www.proaquatix.com/images/gallery-dottyback-orchid-01.jpg
Green Mardarin http://coralzen.web.officelive.com/images/green-mandarin.jpg
Glass Eye Squirrelfish http://www.petkoo.com/Upload/2011030794723912.jpg
Clown Tang http://www.toofishy.com/images/T/tang_clown.jpg
Clown Triggerfish http://www.reefcomber.co.za/images/featur5.jpg
Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse http://www.aquacon.com/images/LubbockiFairyWrasse1.jpg
Leopard Wrasse http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSYZclfPcVaErdzUiXzlVf8BS8eEwCeCK6xQIVOV3DigE3qQca4
Blue Flasher Wrasse http://wetpixel.com/images/uploads/news/echeng090312_0217289_close.jpg
Panther Grouper http://www.incredibleaquarium.com/images/panther_grouper.jpg
Blue Spotted Puffer http://www.consettcorals.com/images/blue%20spotted%20puffer%20small.jpg
Catalina Goby http://animal-world.com/encyclo/marine/goby_ble/images/CatalinaWMGo1P660X_med.jpg
Tiger Watchman Goby http://www.thereefshoppe.ca/images/tiger_watchman_goby.jpg
Yellow Multibanded Pipefish http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQzSLtQ6oWsNZ5Nc2-0vr3htD873KKr80CwiEPKjmGHQ_xcA30Y
Mombasa Lionfish http://www.moscowzoo.ru/images/A34_01b.jpg
Tailspot Blenny http://www.fishtail.ca/images/detailed/2/tailspot_blenny.jpg
Leafy Filefish http://lh3.ggpht.com/-X_chL_I-HnQ/SFZI5PMAUzI/AAAAAAAACaI/cxZe5GyEARw/IMG_3746.JPG
Yellow Fin Goatfish http://www.spearfishmaui.com/files/Pics/Target_Species/Weke.jpg
Frogfish http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/33/bd/69/frog-fish-taking-a-walk.jpg
Candy Basslet http://reefbuilders.com/files/2010/04/Liopropoma-carmabi-sanjay-joshi-1-2010-b.jpg

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Cat Collars

If you are anything like me as a cat owner, you like your kitty friends to be adorable. Admittedly they don't generally have to try too hard to achieve this, but you can be of some assistance. I'm not talking about just grooming here. I'm talking about accessorizing!

Collars don't just have to be functional anymore. There are thousands of styles, colors and patterns to choose from for your feline friends. Even flea collars have become more attractive, if that is what you need. There are collars with bows, beads, reflectors and even blingy dangles. Garfield's collar doesn't just have to have your contact info on it - add a dangly gemstone to ramp up the cute!

In my search to find the perfect collar for my little man, I came across far more than I ever expected. Just entering "cute blue cat collar" turned up more hits than I could ever click. Some were too plain, some didn't look safe (no easy release, too many parts to get caught on things), and some were just plain over the top. I finally settled on a customizable collar and then purchased an appealing new name tag from Red Dingo, but it was a tough choice. If you're looking for a huge variety of unique options, try Etsy first.

The above collars represent some of the cutest, most functional and fanciest that I saw. Be a lavish pet owner and treat your kitty to something new!

OH! And if I get my blog's very first comment on this entry I will post a picture of my Dashel in his new threads!

Sources:

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Detroit - Give It A Chance

Now for a topic near and dear to my heart. Detroit.

Is Detroit all gun fights and abandoned buildings? No. Do those things happen there? Sure, and maybe slightly more frequently than in your sleepy suburb. But is there more, much more, to the city? Oh gods, yes. Forget what you’ve seen and heard on the news and open your eyes to the real downtown Detroit.

When I tell people that I am from Detroit (well, a suburb they’ve never heard of, anyway) I usually get the same reaction - awe, shock, and open-mouthed horror. When people think of the city their brains seem to immediately jump to riots, gang violence and poverty. Yes, those things occur or have occurred in the past, but they have in every other major city in the nation as well. People watch the news and only hear the negative. No news station is reporting the fact that in 2010 homicide rates dropped by 15% and were the lowest since 1967 – 70% of those homicides being drug related (cite: wikipedia). There is no denying that crime exists, but it is not unique to Detroit or worse than in other major cities.

The heart of downtown Detroit remains attractive and bustling. There are numerous historical attractions and stunning works of architecture to view. Between renovations and revitalizations the city is actually looking better than it has in years. Abandoned lots are being turned into gardens and run-down buildings getting charismatic new paint jobs. Sure, there are quite a number of dilapidated old factories, but for the most part the city center is in tact and without need of these conversions.

One may be daunted by the drive into the downtown area; there are plenty of old automotive plants and warehouses left to rot on the outskirts of town. But once through that you are greeted with everything a big city should have: Entertainment, fine dining, big business and people. The heart of the city is still very much alive and beats with renewed fervor.

There are plenty of world class hotels, restaurants and theaters. Easily reached by city residents, Wayne State University calls the heart of Detroit its home. WSU provides a nationally recognized, phenomenal education with hundreds of degree options ranging from trade skill certificates to doctorates. They offer hundreds of millions of dollars in scholarships every year (cite: wikipedia) with Michigan residents paying one of the lowest tuition rates in the state.

If it is entertainment you want, look no further. The Detroit Red Wings, Tigers and Lions all call metro Detroit their home. Not a sports fan? Check out one of the many shows or concerts at the Fox Theater or the Fisher Theater. The Fisher is celebrating its 50^th year of bringing Broadway to Detroit! Want something more… interactive? Detroit boasts three busy casinos, each with their own live entertainment, food and attractions. Want to be outside? Check out Hart Plaza and the various festivals that take place their yearly, right on the river. The Jazz Fest is the largest in the world and the Electronic Music Festival is the largest free festival in the world. Take a stroll on the Riverwalk or visit the Wintergarden.

If art is more your pace then Detroit has what you want. Pewabic Pottery is a sight to be seen, with more tiles, vases and dinnerware than you’ve probably ever seen in one place. Of course a must-see in the city is the Detroit Institute of Arts. It’s simply fantastic. In to architecture? Check out the Fisher Building or Guardian Building for stunning examples of art deco. Go to The Whitney (fine restaurant, formerly David Whitney House) for gorgeous Romanesque revival in jasper, onyx, wood and marble. There are various statues scattered throughout the city, including the “Spirit of Detroit” and the “Fist of a Champion.” The Horace E. Dodge Memorial Fountain at the center of Hart Plaza is a sight to be seen.

There is also plenty of shopping and nightlife. Bricktown, the area around the Wayne County Building, has trendy boutiques well worth visiting. The Eastern Market has super fresh produce, meat, etc. If you’ve never experienced bartering, try visiting there for an adrenaline rush. Visit the Renaissance Center and check out the shops there. Maybe even stay at the Marriott there, the Western Hemisphere’s tallest hotel (cite; wikipedia). The Bureau of Urban Living is a MUST SEE if you like modern décor, along with the whole Mid-Town area. Also in Detroit, you never have to look far for a happening nightclub or bar. Pick your theme and I promise there is a bar or club to fit your needs.

If I haven’t convinced you that Detroit isn’t all the bad it’s cracked up to be, you probably didn’t care in the first place. Maybe visit for a sporting even followed by dinner. Stop at a casino and then stay at a riverfront hotel. Instead of avoiding Detroit like the plague, give it a chance. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

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Monday, August 22, 2011

Decorative Pillows

Decorative pillows, accent pillows, throw or toss pillows... it doesn't matter what you call them, they're always irresistible. They are one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to bring a splash of color into a room. You can put them practically anywhere - couch, bed, window ledge - and instantly add a new dimension or color to your space.

Throw pillows are, in my opinion, the most subtle and yet visible way to add your personality to a space. You can complement your current color scheme easily, or add a new one just like that. From crazy designs to lush textures you can find anything in pillow form. Animals? Patterns? Random graffiti pattern? I bet you could even find pencil themed pillows. ANYTHING!

Couches without them look uninviting and beds just don't look made without one (or more)! Get daring and pick a new color or theme!

Sources

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Cherry Blossoms

My favorite flower. They are so dainty, simple and elegant. Something about their pale coloration draws my eye to their tiny petals. They make their trees look as if they are floating on a cloud of light pink, which is probably why the Japanese use them as a symbol for clouds. It is a shame they only bloom for about a week before falling to the ground.

Even if the blossom is not a national symbol here like it is in Japan, Americans do not fail to see their beauty. Japan has generously gifted thousands of trees to the United States over the years. If one is lucky enough to attend a Cherry Blossom Festival the beauty is sure to impress.

If you're paying attention you will notice the blossoms are everywhere nowadays. From sashimi to home decor the blossom image is present. It is a favorite subject for artists, and there are representations in every form of painting/sculpting/etc. The photos above represent many of the facets in which one can find the blossoms today. If I ever get married I think I need a cherry blossom cake!

Sources

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Nail Art - Water Marbling and Swirls

Now, for my first entry I imaged that I would go with something near and dear to my heart; something with which I hold a deep interest. Not quite.

I've only recently taken an interest in painted nails and manicures. However, there is one technique that I find quite interesting: water marbling. The desired effect is achieved by adding drips of nail polish into the surface of a cup of water one at a time, swirl them together, dip your nail, and viola! All of the images above except for three of them are this technique.

As I said, they're not all done using water marbling, but I find them all appealing. 1 and 10 were done free-handed and 8 is a stamped effect. I am mostly attracted to the blending, layering and swirling of colors and not so much the method in which they were applied. The water marbling just seems to combine them together the most seamlessly.

If you have any further questions about techniques, brands and/or applications I can most likely answer them so please feel free to ask!

Sources

1. http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YiVl3Lg2_0I/TgxgHjqZqpI/AAAAAAAABQs/V0uFa68IbiU/s320/face+of+australia+swirl+nail+art.jpg

2. http://www.flickr.com/photos/42778107@N04/5777440284/

3. http://www.nailnerd.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/marbled-nails.jpg

4. http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5003/5333494771_42cc2f7242.jpg

5. http://nailed.heatherface.com/photos/nails3.jpg

6. http://www.alllacqueredup.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/water-marble-manicure-marbling.jpg

7. http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E5E9gsdSifk/TkjLgiP6j3I/AAAAAAAABXk/kDbAW1jHVus/s1600/blue-11.jpg

8. http://heysis.blog.com/2011/02/01/files/2011/02/luxxx.jpg

9. http://www.geekologie.com/2009/11/10/bacon-nails-1.jpg

10. http://29.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lkv5wlphtp1qzc24fo1_500.jpg

Blog Format and Purpose

In everyday life I come across textures, imagery and shapes that I find visually appealing. Instead of just saving pictures in folders in my computer, tearing out magazine pages and jotting down notes on various pieces of scrap paper I have decided to organize my thoughts in an optically agreeable manner. My tastes and interests are diverse, but I feel it helps me to focus by viewing all of my options simultaneously.

The format I plan for this blog to take is a collage of multiple images (with a general focus) followed by explanation and resources for finding the images on the web. Some may appeal to you while some may not be even remotely interesting. As I said, my tastes are fairly diverse. My hope is that maybe one person out there will get an idea or be slightly inspired to start a project/make a purchase.

We'll see where it goes!

Inspira Boards

Photographic Collections That Inspire for Various Reasons

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Dad

Dashel's New Collar - Pictures as Promised

Friday, August 26, 2011

Saltwater Fish

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Cat Collars

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Detroit - Give It A Chance

Monday, August 22, 2011

Decorative Pillows

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Cherry Blossoms

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Nail Art - Water Marbling and Swirls

Blog Format and Purpose

Pinterest