{Do You Like My Hat?}

Hello World,

Okay so, I am sure by now you know my obsession with... well... vintage. And when I say vintage, I mean vintage everything. I like the clothes, the underwear, the furniture, and the hats.

I am constantly on the lookout for the perfect vintage hat. You know, it's not as easy as you think, it must fit your head perfectly and if the hat has netting , the netting must drape over your forehead seductively...but in a nice girl kinda way, ya know :)

Anyways, I would like to feature another fellow female blogger. Her name is Cedar ( what a delightful name is that, don't you think), and she has created and runs The Vintage Wife. And she is doing a Hat Giveaway, not just any hat, but a beautiful two-toned shell hat.

Please visit the link to see this lovely hat, it's gorgeous.

Cedar, I would love this hat. It is beautiful and it would make a 19 year old girl very,very happy.

-Autie

http://www.thevintagewife.com/?p=1357


{ Please,please visit this link and check out her whole blog while you're at it}

{Change}

Hello World,

It's officially my season here in the mountains, leaves are changing, the slight Indian summer breeze greets me in the morning as I walk to work.
But with the changing of the seasons, the change of heart is bound to follow.

My heart and mind are undergoing changes, my life is speeding through seasons before I have the chance to catch up. But I suppose that is the story of a college aged girl.

I could consider this a confusing time in my life, but I know that confusion doesn't come from the Lord. He is using this time in my life to stretch and grow me into the woman of God that my Father desires me to be.

I am going to be like Gold Refined.

-Autie

{Worship }

Hello World,

I know, I know it's been over a month since I have blogged. But tonight I was inspired to share something with you.

As I have moved up the hill, I am attending a Sunday Night Bible Study that takes places at my place of work. It is time of food,fellowship,a study, and of course, worship. This study has been a blessing to me each Sunday as I become spritiual refreshed before I begin my week.

Anyways, I have grown up with the love of worship instilled in me. In Romania, the worship was awesome. It was filled with passion and love for Our Lord. And although it was in another language, I was blessed. Beyond Blessed.

Now that I am older, the love for worship has grown,however; I have also grown to see adults, young and old lose their love for worship. I cannot explain the saddness I feel for the people who do not desire to worship their Lord. It is discouraging for so young a person as myself to see the older people in my life not worshipping.

Now, Back to Sunday Night Bible Study.

There is this 9 nine year old girl who sits in the very front row to the far left of the sanctuary before the children are dismissed. Never in my life have I ever seen anyone worship as this little girl does. She stands tall, raises her hands, and sings loudly,passionately and sometimes off-key. But her voice is heard above all others, and it is so sweet, seeing a child so lovingly praising her Abba Father.

People, when we worship we need to remember to worship with child-like beauty and innocence. We need to remember to worship in general, we don't have to be in church to sing praises to our creator. When I am in housekeeping during the week, and my ipod dies, I don't mind lifting my voice, it is this time with my God that is so sweet.

Praise Him,

Autie Klare


{Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place. Ascribe to the LORD, O families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength, ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name. Bring an offering and come before him; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.}
~1 Chronicals 16:27-29

{ Local,Delicious,Eatery}

Hello World,

Last night I went out to dinner with a good friend of mine( and hopefully future blogger) Stephanie. One of the neatest things about Stephanie is that she LOVES experiencing new things and trying new foods. A few months ago, I told her about this local restaurant called " Open Sesame", which is located in Long Beach. So finally, last night we went out for some excellent Lebanese food. We started our meal with some Baba ganoush( a mixture of blended grilled eggplant, diced onions) and pita. This is some of the best baba ganoush I have ever had, so perfectly flavored with a hint of lemon.

The decor and ambiance was amazing and authentic and wasn't to "harem-y". But gave you the feeling you were dining in a house of a great Sheik who was visiting America.

Stephanie ordered the Kafta plate,( ground up,spiced meat, rolled into balls and skewered)which I sampled and was quite excellent. And I ordered a simple lamb kabob pita sandwich, the meat was perfectly cooked and tasted like heaven. The only draw back to this delicious restaurant is that it is a tad pricey, appetizers were about 7 dollars, entrees ranged from 9.99 to to 23.99. The sandwiches were a decent meal and ranged from 6.99 to 8.99.

But... it is SO worth it and is perfect for a date night or for a girls night out.

Please visit Open Sesames website - http://www.opensesamegrill.com/

Happy Eating!

-Autie

{Verse of the Moment}

Hello World,

It's August 28th, 11:31 in the year 2010, and although I should be asleep, I couldn't bear going to bed without sharing this verse with you. A few months ago, my lovely boyfriend sent me this verse at random and lately it has been on my heart.

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you."
~ Isaiah 54:10

Now,this verse was quite encouraging at the moment, I don't think he realized how much more of an encouragement it would be weeks later. During this summer I have been stretched in so many more ways than I though imaginable. I did something stupid and questioned God's plan for me and His (perfect) control over my life.
During this emotionally and spiritually crazy summer, Jesus has been there ever step of the way. Keeping His promise to love,care,and provide for me.

So, readers of my blog, I encouraged you to write his verse on the pages of your heart, so when times get rough you will remember His unfailing love and covenant for you.

With Love,

Autie



Ps.Remember,remember Isaiah 54:10

{ New Goal }

Hello World,

After deciding that I am the least talented person in the world, I need to make a new goal for myself that will give me some new skills. So what is this new goal you ask?

Crochet Baby Afghan.


Now, this is not as crazy as you might think , I have crocheted before, but that was also five years ago...

But!

I will start on this goal this winter, when it's cold outside.


So here are some afghans that I LOVE! And maybe I am not ready to conquer these,but merely inspirational ideas.






If any of you ladies have some beginner's afghan patterns and would like to share them, I'd be a willing student!

Much Love,

Autie

" She selects wool and flax and works eagerly with her hands"
Proverbs 31:13

{ My Favorite Make-Up}

Hello World,

As I am writing this, it is a beautiful day in Southren California.The morning sunshine is greeting the trees and there is no trace of clouds in the sky, and soft sea breeze floating through my bedroom window. I am rather blessed to live near the beach.

I could come up with a clever way to corralate the nature paragraph with today's blog post topic. Make-up.

You see, most girls just like make-up. But I have a fetish with it, I like trying it on, I like reveiwing it online, talking about it,getting it for my birthday,and even gushing over my friend's makeup. Needless to say, I love make-up, so I thought I would share my favorite make-up with you!


Foundation~ Bare Minerals



For years, I was curious about bare minerals and I was dying to try it. And for my 18th birthday, my lovely family bought me the starter kit that included foundation,conceler, bronzer, and the mineral veil.The kit also included the three famous BareMinerals Brushes;Flawless application brush,the Buki,and the concealer brush. I have loved this make-up, and will never ever be able to go back! The coverage is fantastic and looks so healthy. Although pricier( 25 bucks a pop) than most foundations, it'll last for a year or more.


Mascara~ Lash Stiletto by Maybelline



To be frank, I bought this product because I liked the package and the comercial. I did a little research and I thought the reviews were good. It was close to prom, and I wanted to splurge a little on some new make-up. Fortunately, the mascara was amazing and there was nearly no clumpage.


Blush- Dream Mousse by Maybelline




I love this blush! It's perfectly mousse-y and will stay on in any season. I have only tried peach satin,but the color is soft and pretty. And it makes you feel like a million bucks on dime . What else could you ask for in a blush?


Eye shadow- Mary Kay's Eyesicles




I got this eyeshadow for my 15th Christmas and almost four years later, it's just getting empty! This eyeshadow is beautifully shimmery,stays on forever, and looks fabulous! They also have it in Island bronze which is perfect for that summer bronze look all we 'albinos' want!


Lipstick ~ Wine With Everything By Revlon




My friend, Emiline wore this lipstick for graduation and I fell in love with it! After I asked her for the brand and shade she told me " It's a lifestyle and a lipstick all in one". After I finally found it, I fell in LOVE! My friends( and even friends of friends know me because of my red lips. This lipstick gives a beautiful,femenine,1940's classic look that I adore. Not only is it the most perfect shade, it last all day. My search for the pefect lipstick is complete, I have no need to look any further. And neither should you!

So sorry about this crazy long blog post, I hope you will be inspired to go out and try some new makeup. Oh, you are probably wondering why I didn't tell you about my favorite eyeliner. Well,that's because I have't found one yet, so if you have any suggestions ,please let me know!

With Love,

Autie

{Preparation for Woman/Wife/Mother Hood}

Hello World,

As a godly,young,unmarried woman, I have put it upon myself to prepare my heart for woman,wife,and motherhood.Sixty years ago, this would have been an easier task; however the culture and role of women have dramatically changed.

But...

I am determined!

I have been blessed to grow up in a home where my mom loved( and still loves) my dad. My mom has always been so good in keeping a good,peaceful home. Preparing excellent and nutritious meals for not only her family,but also for (sometimes unexpected) guests.
I could go on and on about my mom, she is not only a great wife and mom,but also a great friend and teacher. She has taught me so much... I sometimes wonder if I will ever be able to be like my mom.


Some of you have heard of Mrs. Debi Pearl, she and her husband are known for their child-rearing book, " To Train up a Child". Several years ago, she wrote an AMAZING book , " Created to Be a Help Meet". Mrs. Pearl talks about the importance and the joy of being your husband's help meet. Now, as awesome as this book is, I couldn't relate because it is written with married women in mind. But.... several months ago, Mrs.Pearl came out with a new book called " Preparing to be a Help Meet"
Needless to say, I am STOKED!
I just ordered it, so I will be reading it in a few days.

Anyways, I hope you all have a beautiful day and you continue to grow to be the daughter/sister/wife/mom that our Father has called you to be.

With Love,

Autie

{ Art Deco Rings...with a modern twist}

Hello World!

I am vintage girl with old fashioned morals and values. But I like to add a little spice with some modern variations.

So, during a spontaneous google search, I found these awesome rings on Etsy. A little background on to what Etsy is, it is a website for uber crafty person who bless the world with beautiful and completely original peices of artwork.

Here is a picture of one of the rings that I found.



To visit the creators page, please click on this link : http://www.etsy.com/listing/52401455/amethyst-gothic-revival-steampunk-ring?ref=v1_other_1

Anyways, this ring is going on my wishlist. My birthday is November 18th , you know, so you could be informed.

I highly suggest looking around on Etsy, who knows? You might find something beautiful and awesome , and you might even feed some straving artists at the same time!

With love,

autie

{ My Speech}

Hello World,

August 3rd will be my two month-a-versary of Graduating High School. I cannot believe it has been two months already,I guess the excitment of summer speeds up the passing of the time.

It is a cool evening in Huntington Beach, and the cool, beach-y breeze induced my thought process to graduation {obviously}. So I thought that you may want to read my speech that I delivered, but some background info on my graduation day.

It was a June gloom morning,not very pretty outside, but nothing was going to damper my mood- I was graduating! I got ready, made sure my graduation garb,cord and speech were next to the door a billion times. After the seemingly 3 three hour drive ( which was only 45 minutes), I arrived slighty flustered but in a fantastic mood. My heart was beating so fast and the suddenly it hit me- I was really leaving high school, and not just in my dreams, but for real, and I was actually going to speak, it wasn't just a acceptance letter,but for real!

Anyways, I somehow ended up being the first person to walk inside the auditorium, so all eyes were on me, if I messed up, everyone would mess up- no pressure. But all went perfectly and as " Pomp and Circumstance" began I felt my heart,cheeks,and eyes swell. I wish I had a camera to capture my face that moment, because I had no doubt that I was glowing. The class of 2010 entered with ... well.. pomp and circumstance, and we pledge our alligieance to our flag, enjoyed some dancing, singing, and some outstanding violin playing accompanied by the piano {the peices played drew everyone to tears, needless to say, Macie got a standing ovation}.And finally, as the last speaker, my name was called.

Breathe,Autumn, Breathe.

And thus is my speech.

Friends, Family and Honored Guests. I want to thank and welcome you on the behalf of the entire PCHS class of 2010 for attending our graduation. You have shown tremendous support and acknowledgement in this milestone of our education. Each and every one of you has made a significant impact in our lives; and we would not stand here as the same individuals if you had not empowered and encouraged us to become the proud graduates that are before you today.

This year in English 12, we were given an assignment. This particular assignment was about Success, we had to explain how we measured and defined success. Personally, success is not what we have earned, but what we have done for others. There are those who define success as a wealth or popularity contest .A person that comes to mind is Michael Jackson. Whether you can sing to all of his music or your cringe at the very mention of his name; he left his mark on the music industry, was a multi-millionaire and will forever be known as the King of Pop, but I ask you this, how would you define success? According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary success is defined as “the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence.” Your wealth may be enjoyed by loved ones and bequeathed to your family after you have pass on, however; your legacy forever remains with you.

I then realized that I did not like the word success and I did not want to apply it to my life, (Mom and Dad, don’t panic, it gets better) however; another word came to mind. Impact; impact is to “Influence; and to affect strongly” And the first person that comes to mind when I think of this word is Corrie Ten Boom. Ms. Ten Boom is not nearly as famous as Michael Jackson; however, I believe that the mark she left on the world is greater. Corrie Ten Boom’s family harbored Jews during World War II, when they were discovered; the entire Ten Boom family was separated and was sent to various concentration camps. She and her sister, Betsie were sent to Ravensbruck concentration camp in Nazi Germany and endured the unimaginable. A mere few days before their release, her sister died from anemia. Yet, even after being separated from her family, enduring a horrific year at a Nazi concentration camp, and the death of her sister, Ms. Ten Boom remained hopeful and survived. After the war, Corrie Ten Boom shared her story with millions and even returned to Germany; this story sparked faith and encouraged hope to the world. Corrie Ten Boom was not a pop star, she did not choreograph dance moves that will be danced at high school proms and at weddings till the end of the millennia, however she did leave an impact and a legacy that has been passed on and will continue to be passed on for generations to come.

In Comparative Literature, we learned about the Power of One and how our decisions, can change the world. We could all use some Corrie Ten Boom within ourselves, the part of ourselves that pushes us to make the right decision, no matter how insignificant. Decisions we make each day have the power to change our life and the millions of lives that surround us.

Fellow classmates, as we walk across this stage, receive our diplomas and leave our high school forever, I want to encourage you that before you aspire to be the next CEO of a fortune five hundred company, or a musician with a double platinum album, that you also aspire to make an impact on our world, and to leave a legacy of hope and perseverance.

Congratulations PCHS Senior Class of 2010. We did it!!


I hope you enjoyed reading this, I apologize for the length, but I felt the need to share it.

Oh, I PROMISE to post the Red Velvet cake recipie tommorrow,I pinky-promise

Love,

Autie

{ Great-Grandma Swims Red Velvet Cake}

Hello Again,

As promised here is the recipe for the red velvet cupcakes my sister made for her birthday. They quite delicious and very pleasing to the eye. This recipe also contains sentimental value, as my Iowan great-grandma Swim made these for her son, my Grandpa Carl during the depression, the recipe has been passed on ever since. Enjoy!

Preheat your oven to 350

Sift together
- 1/2 cup of Cocoa
- 2 1/2 cups of Flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt

Beat Together
- 1 cup of softened Butter
- 2 cups of Sugar
- 4 Eggs, but adding one egg at a time.

Mix into butter mixture
- 1 cup of Sour Cream
- 1/2 cup of Milk
- 1 ounce of Red Food Coloring
- 2 teaspoons of Vanilla

Slowly add the flour mixture into the Red Batter.

After batters are well combined, pour about a quarter of a cup of batter into the paper linings that have been placed in a muffin tin.

Bake for about 45 minutes.

Well, that is about it , I hope you enjoy these wonderful cupcakes, I will post the frosting recipe...tomorrow... probably...maybe.

Love,

autie klare

{ Adventures in Little India}

Hello Again,

Six days ago, my " little sister" turned 16, but because we were at youth camp, we celebrated it today. We visited Little India, and within minutes I fell in love.
My rather large family walked the streets which were rather empty and enjoyed the sites,smells, and food.
Our first stop was Rasraj,an all vegetarian Indian restaurant,which is was a great deal. A lunch was under six dollars, with your meal there was the best naan you have ever had{ and believe me, I have eaten a lot of naan}

My dad wanted to get some sweets at this very local sweet and snack shop, I can't remember the full name,but it included " World Famous" in the name. I have to say it was quite an experience to eat some Indian sweets{ who wouldn't enjoy a dessert called Chum-chum?}. At the end we all decided that we had fun, but we all preferred ice cream. { We will get to that later }

I was quite adamant on visiting a clothing/accessory store, so we stopped at several. One word I will use to describe these stores : Sparkly.
Although I didn't walk out with a 24 carat necklace, I did walk out with beautiful five dollar bangles to add to my collection of obscure jeawlery.

The rest of the day was uneventful, besides we came home watched Bride and Prejudice and ate some delicous Red Velvet cupcakes. I will post the recipie tommarrow!

-autie k.

{ Introduction to Me }

Hello World,

My name is Autie Klare, wait, excuse me. My real name is Autumn, I love my name, but lately the nick Autie has stuck. Therefore, I go by Autie now. {To be honest, that's what my boyfriend calls me, and I think it's cute }

I would like to acknowledge my best friend, Paulina Rose Dillard for inspiring this blog. Unless she was in my life, I would not have had laugh of the laughs that I have enjoyed. To you best friend.

While I am acknowledging people, I would like to say something to my parents, who are just downright awesome. And I hope that I can emulate them as people,spouse,and parents.
To my siblings, who give me a reason to wake up and laugh at myself.
To my boyfriend,Mattie, who loves me and is always willing to talk and work things through, my first love
To my life, for making a dull moment adventurous.

Now, that I have given you a look into the important people in my life, I want you to know about the things in my life that I enjoy.

I love photography,and I aspire to take your wedding photos one day.

I love vintage things{ did you say art deco?}

I like food, Indian, Greek, Italian, Romanian, Lebanese... yep... all of it.

Weddings. Need I say more?

Classy clothes, you know, the kind that flatter your natural figure.

Deals! Coupons! Discounts! Oh my!

Music. The language of the soul.

Celebrities. Old and New

Love. Because we should all be informed.

Life. Because we all have one.


Oh yes, I just graduated high school. Though you should know.


So you know what I look like because don't we all like a smiling face?

-autie k.