Pastime Loves

05 Wednesday Dec 2012

Tags

80s, 90s, animals, Anne of Green Gables, Annie, arts, back in the day, bmx, brooklyn, cartoons, children, Christian Slater, christmas, dancing, dolls, eclectic, Gleaming the Cube, growing up, He-man, jem, kids, Liquid Television, Mister Softee, Monchhichis, Pinterest, prince edward island, Puff the Magic Dragon, Ren and Stimpy, she-ra, singing, Smurfs, Strawberry Shortcake, Sylvanian Families, The Legend of Billie Jean, toys

When I think of the good old days, I remember all the toys and games I loved as a kid. Times were different back then. Growing up in the 80s and becoming a teen in the 90s, I can say that stuff back then was so much cooler. Not to mention, designed better. I see all the toys, dolls and games made for kids today and they just don’t compare. Because of this, I promise to share the best with my kids and make sure they know what cool really is.

Because I have so much love for many things in my past, I created a Pinterest board to collect all of these memorable favorites. From toys and dolls to awesome films, I continue to collect the best of the best. Here, I share some of these goodies with you guys and maybe, if you are part of my generation, it will take you back to the good old days too. And since the holidays are knocking at our door, there is no better time than now to share them with your children.

Mister Softee takes me back to Brooklyn, where I as born. I lived there till I was about 5 or so and one thing I remember so well is hearing Mister Softee down the block. It would get me so excited! I would jump up and down and run out to his truck for ice cream. And it always was the same, soft vanilla with rainbow sprinkles. To this day, I still get excited to hear his tune and its still the best ice cream out there. I love you Mister Softee!

As a child, I was always into the arts. Dancing, singing and drawing were major loves and entertaining everyone with my talents was so much fun. It was no surprise I would love Jem. What girl didn’t? She rocked!

The toys and dolls for girls back in the day were so rad. However, I will always have a place in my heart for Strawberry Shortcake. From all the characters to the beautiful little world they all lived in, this was one I couldn’t resist. I hate how the company recreated their look because it just isnt the same. The original is always better.

Oh, how I loved Sylvanian Families. Since I have always adored animals, how can I not want to play with all these wonderful and sweet characters. All kinds of animals were introduced from dogs and cats to bunnies and lambs. I used to have the little log house and various dolls. It was so much fun to play in animals heavan.

Monchhichis! That’s all I have to say about that.

Was there anyone who didn’t like the Smurfs? I had the toys, I watched the cartoon and even ate the cereal. Smurf’s rule!

When my mother got remarried, I moved to Elizabeth, NJ. My father in law had 3 sons so you can imagine how happy I was to have brothers. Although I played with girl toys, I did love the boy toys as well. They always have cool shit! The one thing my brothers and I could play with together was He-Man and She-Ra. I loved this so much. I always thought She-Ra was a bad ass.

The first time I saw Puff the Magic Dragon, I was in love. What a unique and awesome story. I guess it’s no surprise I grew up into a pot head, haha. I will always have love for Puff. I can’t wait to show my kids this film. Just the music alone is incredible.

Oh my God, did I love Annie. I even had the Annie mansion with all the dolls and little details. The movie just made me want to sing more!

As I got older, I appreciated the eclectic, weird and unique. Nothing says this more than Ren and Stimpy. It explored a different dimension of comedy and animation and I loved every minute of it. You can bet I was a big fan of Liquid Television as well.

And how could I forgot about Anne of Green Gables. Anne will always have a place in my heart. I used to watch it with my cousin Diana and we will both never forget sitting in front of the tv watching Anne’s stories unfold. I was so lucky to have visited Prince Edward Island this past October for our honeymoon. I saw everything Anne I could see!

I am sure many people out there loved Christian Slater. Not only did I love him, I bowed down to one of his best films ever, Gleaming the Cube. I was in awe of the art of skating and bmxing after watching it. So much that I even asked for a bmx bike for Christmas that year so I could start practicing my tricks. Well, I still have that wish. It turns out I never got the bike and so didn’t get the chance to be a famous bmx rider. Instead, my mother bought me a Sea Princess bike that was pink and purple with seashells painted all over it, haha. I just couldn’t win.

Another film that really inspired me was The Legend of Billie Jean. I loved how she took a stand and didn’t give up. The story of my teen years for sure.

There are many more things I adore from my past and you can check some of them out on my Pinterest board, which I am always updating with more faves.

Historic Series: Mill Pond Park

19 Wednesday Sep 2012

Posted by melissaoconnor in Historic Places

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Tags

animals, bellmore, bellmore patch, ducks, historic, history, lake, long island, mill pond park, nassau county, nature, new york, patch, photography, swans, trees

When I first starting writing for the Bellmore Patch, I wanted to write about a place with hidden beauty. I ventured out to the water in hopes of getting some nice views of the East Bay. I am sure anyone from Bellmore can understand my frustration when I realized those views were only blocked by private homes. I drove around for almost an hour and decided to head back. On my way home I passed Mill Pond Park. I stopped immediately.

Being that it was a nice day, I was excited to check out the lake and capture some nice shots. It was around 4:30 p.m. and the sun was just starting to set. The light that glimmered off the water and against the trees was really beautiful. The park had a sense of peace, which I found appealing. I found it interesting that when I turned back I could see the many cars that passed on Merrick Road yet I felt like I was in another world. This 54-acre preserve seemed like a nice place to walk, sit, read or just simply appreciate what mother nature has given us.

I slowly walked up the path to the right of the lake and fell in love with the trees. One of my favorite characters of nature, trees carry such knowledge and warmth. They see everything before them and hear the sounds that surround them. The detail on some of these particular trees were captivating. History was telling its story right in front of me and I was taking it all in.

Ducks, geese and swans call the Mill Pond home and they are such a delight to be around. There was a small group by the path I had to capture with my camera. They were so calm and comfortable that it almost seemed they were unaware of their surroundings. I soon realized that they noticed I was there and kept an eye on what I was doing.

On the other side of the lake it was slightly a different story. There must have been almost 100 ducks in the water and although they weren’t loud they were much more active. At some point they made me laugh because of their silliness. I find it amusing how they communicate and play. Just another reason to visit Mill Pond Park.

From what I have learned, this pond has been there for more than 100 years. After looking at a 1914 historic map, it seemed it was owned by the Brooklyn City Water Works like most ponds in the area. New York City received most of its water from these ponds during this time. Although the Brooklyn City Water Works is not there anymore, you can still visit the small pumping station northwest of the pond.

A 1927 map of Nassau County has it marked as Jones Pond. That, I assume, was named after S. J. Jones considering his name was listed on the map next to the pond. After some time it was also named after Thomas Jones. It was later acquired by Nassau County in 1967. Thanks to Clarence Anspake, president of The Historical Society of Bellmore, all my findings were confirmed as well as learning some new and interesting facts about the area.

As you look at my photos, try to imagine that this is the first time you are seeing the park. Take your own inspiration from what my lens has captured and gain a new appreciation for what it has to offer. A little peace and quiet is not all Mill Pond Park is good for. With its naturalistic beauty and a setting far from reality you can surely find a new and improved sense of self and unique view on the world around you.

Our Vintage Farm Wedding

07 Friday Sep 2012

Posted by melissaoconnor in Real Weddings, Weddings

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Tags

animals, antique, barn, country, dancing, dr suess, earth, eco friendly, farm, flowers, garden, hitherto, ivory, lord of the rings, may, natural, nature, new york, organic, queens, queens county farm museum, rust jewelry, spring, vegan, vegetarian wedding, vintage, vows, wedding, winnie the pooh

Daniel and I shared our vows on May 20, 2012 on a gorgeous Sunday afternoon. Our wedding was held at The Queens County Farm Museum in Floral Park where the surroundings are natural, rustic, earthy and filled with beautiful animals. This farm was close to our hearts as we fell in love with it the minute we saw it. Not only was it the backdrop for our wedding but a main character as well.

I had put so much time and work into this day. You see, I designed and created everything from the decor to our bouquets and pretty much planned it all out with Dan by my side. This was my chance to put together an event that was 100% Danny and I and you can bet I was excited. Even though we didn’t have a large budget, I felt our style and my aesthetic truly shined and us as a couple were represented flawlessly. We both give thanks to our families who helped make it all happen and our friends who happily accepted to play a part in our special day.

Our wedding was very much thought out and all the details clearly show that. We made sure our natural lifestyle and love for the Earth was a main focus. From the recycled paper I used to print the invites, programs and table charts to the favors which guests could plant, we chose to be good to the planet. Our vegetarian menu expressed that as well. We both felt it was important our wedding represented who we are as well as creating a beautiful and organic environment for our guests to enjoy.

The morning of, Dan and I along with my best friend and maid of honor, Meg, arrived at the farm bright and early to set up. Although there were a number of complications and less hands than we planned, we did our best to get everything situated as fast as we can. Since the venue was 45 minutes away from our house we only had a few hours to finish up.

Well, a few hours turned into more hours than we thought and the morning was very much rushed. Let’s just say we all sped home way past the speed limit and got ready like clockwork with Dan heading off to his parents and Meg and I taking turns getting our makeup done. My hair was being curled by my Grandmother and Meg at the same time while my friend Jen was creating my flawless face. Meg wasn’t even done when we left because we were going to be late! Due to time, we couldn’t have our first look shoot at the house either which was a bummer. But off we went determined and anxious.

As our guests waited outside in our ceremony space, which was adorned with burlap and vintage fabric I had purchased on Etsy, the girls and I got dressed inside the barn. My mother wore a garden inspired dress from Anthropologie while Meg looked beautiful in a navy dress from JCrew. My flower girl and Meg’s daughter, Leona Faye, was absolutely adorable in her plaid dress and sandals, showing off a french braid done by my mother. I wore a Hitherto ivory sweater and ivory lace skirt along with Lulu Townsend heels. Azaara earrings graced my ears showing a little shine, a crystal bow and my love for pearls.

Then it was time to walk out and meet my future husband. As we stepped out of the barn and began our little journey over to the pavilion, I was taken back by the visitors that surrounded me, it was surely a busy day at the farm. I had great excitement to finally share our vows before our dear friends and family.

My good friend, Hernan Feraci, played an original song he wrote for us on guitar as I walked down alongside my mother. My eco-conscious bouquet was mix of pink peonies, white and pink daises and button mums, held together with ivory vintage lace and the vintage key Dan gave me during our engagement. Meg’s bouquet featured hydrangeas along with the same as mine while Leona sprinkled dried pastel hydrangea petals down the aisle.

{These were the only natural elements we used that were taken from the Earth so I made sure they were whole trade and eco certified}

The groom wore gray plaid pants from Banana Republic with a wool plaid bow tie from JCrew and gray suspenders while the best man, his brother Nick, wore all gray with an ASOS vest and a JCrew wool plaid tie. Those are two handsome guys!

As our officiant, Mona Gulino, proceeded with the ceremony, we shared teary eyes, smiles and laughs with our guests. Filled with personal readings, chosen quotes from Winnie the Pooh and Dr. Seuss and a small dedication to my mother, aunt and grandmother, it was pure joy to stand by Dan and vow to love him forever. We shared custom vows typed on vintage paper and before we knew it we were husband and wife!

Proceeding the ceremony, everyone joined us in the barn for cocktail hour. We wanted to have light and healthy food served before dinner because it wasn’t long for meal time. Our guests found their place by the table charts I created and each were greeted by an earth friendly favor they could plant anywhere they chose. The tables featured various mini garden centerpieces I put together, each adorned with twine and a vintage key. Vintage fabric was used throughout the space on all the tables and all of the jars and birdcage where items from our collection.

We had natural soda pop as well as iced tea and lemonade as refreshments. Wine and beer were served table side along with the yummy food before dinner.

Dan and I danced to Under the Milky Way by The Church which spun into Two of Hearts by Stacey Q to get everyone up and dancing. We both handpicked the playlists for the event to make sure the music we loved was a character as well. Our DJ, my friends brother Joey, filled the room with good vibes and bangin beats. There was a mix of 80s, dance, some goodies from the 90s and instrumental tunes. Our favorite bands were showcased gloriously. And as you can see I was very excited to get the party started!

From there, we all danced, ate and had a great time. We had an open buffet of vegetarian italian options along with salads and breads, all served on bamboo plates. The weather was perfect and I was so happy to see all our guests explore the farm grounds. This venue is truly a playground for love, joy and happiness. Dan’s brother gave a great speech, which I missed while in the bathroom!, and everyone loved. Good thing I was able to watch it on our video thanks to my good friend Craig who filmed the whole reception.

I was also thrilled everyone attacked the cupcakes which we ordered from Georgetown Cupcake. They are the best! We also set up a little candy bar and served fresh fruit and italian cookies for dessert.

Although the day went by so fast, I will always cherish the special moments and all our friends and family who came and became a big part of making it a success. It was surely a day to remember. Now my best friend is my husband and 3 months later I can look back and say we created a fabulous day full of love. What more could a girl ask for 🙂

Event Details:
Makeup by Jennifer Lombardo
Officiant – Mona Gulino
DJ- DJ Ello, Joseph Mondello
Catering by Buona sera
Cupcakes by Georgetown Cupcake, NYC
Filmed by Craig Webb, What! Productions
Photography by Lauren Elle
Wedding Bands: {Melissa} Rust, England & {Dan} official Lord of the Rings ring

Inspiration Photo Friday: It’s a Small World

07 Friday Sep 2012

Posted by melissaoconnor in Inspiration Photo Friday

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animals, bedroom, characters, connecticut, country, dog, dollhouse, dolls, girl, imagination, lighthouse, museum, orange, rustic, small world, stories, yellow

I have always thought dollhouses were interesting. From the construction and realistic layout to all the tiny pieces of furniture. Then you have the small people who live in these houses. Oh, what stories you could create in this imaginary little world.

This particular doll house was shot in Connecticut at a lighthouse museum. All the little rooms were so quaint and cozy. The one you see below is a bedroom showing exquisite detail and country style. It introduces a girl and her dog possibly starting the day. The lighting hints an early morning feel as if the sun was coming up right through the window. It could also be evening, where the warm tones of yellow and orange light up a room.

Either way, your story is their story. All that happens in the dollhouse is a piece of your imagination. It may be a small world but it gets larger the more stories it holds.