On the stoop

One of my favorite traditions in Brooklyn is found on brownstone stoops, the surrounding fences, and the sidewalk: totally free stuff. When someone is done with something--clothing, shoes, books, magazines, whatever--they'll often place it outside for anyone to grab. Sometimes there's an accompanying "FREE Please Take" sign, but more than likely, there's not. You just have to speak the language and know when stuff is there for the taking.

Tulips, or “any excuse for a new app”

I needed three things this week: Chocolate. Simple, unfussy tulips. And new iPhone apps.

So I got them all (although evidence of the chocolate is long gone). And I figured it might be smart to try out the CameraBag app I just bought--recommended to me by my friend and co-worker Margaret--with this week's edition of my One-Bouquet-a-Week Challenge. Here are the results.

The original pic:

Using the "Helga" filter (supposed to replicate a Holga camera):

"1962" filter:

"1974" filter:

"Silver" filter:

"Magazine" filter:

"Instant" filter:

You like? While it won't replace my big-mama camera, it's still a ton of fun. So go get it. And please let me know if you have any other great application recommendations!

(Or chocolate. I'll take chocolate recommendations, too.) (Also, actual chocolate.)

7 sites to bookmark immediately

Want a few more deliciously lovely sites for gift-giving, home decor, and general fabulosity? (I mean, in case you didn't have enough already.) Hit up these must-bookmark online shops--some of my current faves.

1. CultureLabel:

Get picks from the best part of any museum: the gift shop. This Brit-based site offers products from over 70 of the world's leading museums, galleries, artists, and culture institutions.

2. You and Me, The Royal We:

A small collection with a mighty impact from three artsy boys in Brooklyn.

3. Merchant No. 4:

So chic I could scream. Unique objects from indie designers worldwide.

4. Gretel:

Pretty, modern home accessories and general cuteness. Even the swooshy-sweet little font of the logo will make you gush.

5. Rockett St George:

If I was a website instead of a person, I might consider being Rockett St George.

6. Envelop:

Fun, colorful "illustrated cotton" finds.

7. Matter:

If the yummy little aqua chair on the home page doesn't grab ya (that's theirs, above), I just don't know what will.

SPACE

Image linked to its source

New Yorkers & Nudity

Yesterday, I showed you my pics of Antony Gormley's showstopping statue series in Madison Square Park. Today let me show you the best part of that exhibit: people's reactions to it.

The sculptures populate many of the rooftops nearby the park--but there are also a few scattered about on ground level. And when I started taking photos of the statue standing on 23rd Street where Broadway and Fifth Avenue cross, I started noticing the funny reactions several folks had to the naked figure displaying his junk for all the Flatiron District to see. (Not that it was the first time this kind of thing happened.) (And you know it certainly won't be the last.)

Here's a peek at how some New Yorkers took a peek.

P.S. See more of my photos of New Yorkers reacting to their new nude neighbor here.