Lauren Junker and I met in 2000. We were both novices trying out for UC Davis' Club Lacrosse team. What I remember most about Lauren was her strong passion for athletics and wonderful sense of creativity. I wasn't surprised when, in 2006, she launched her company Totally Tubular Designs. Lauren, an avid triathlete, transforms used bicycle inner tubes into one-of-a-kind handbags. Aren't they awesome? Get yours here.

"Looking to be stylishly fashionable, eco-friendly and support the cycling industry? A Totally Tubular bag is 'IT' all in one. These totally cool bags are hand crafted completely from used bike tires and tubes. Bag linings range from discarded leather couches and auto upholstery to used drapery and vinyl. All materials are recycled, and every bag hand sewn, making no two bags alike. All bags are durable, waterproof, and easy to wash. Bags retail between $10-$125." (Road Magazine)

Gavin Braman and Martin Hooper (the Drifting Creatives): everyday vagabonds with a great idea. These two recent college grads were pushed out into the cold, cruel world at the height of the recession. Instead of moving back in with mom and dad, they packed up their Honda Element and took their Macs on the road. They traveled the continental  US in search of design work, inspiration, networking, and adventure. I caught up with them near the end of their journey. Last October, I randomly came across an online article (above) about the designing-duo. As luck would have it, they were traveling to Charlotte that week, without a place to stay. So, I blindly accepted two strangers into my home... all in the name of graphic design. Turns out they weren't serial killers, just two young men in search of meaning, boxed wine, and "three wolf moon" tshirts.

Ah, witness the amazing photographic talent of my dear college friend, Lauren Dillon. Last fall, she grabbed life by the horns (car horn to be exact) and set out on a solo road trip across the country. Along the way she wrote a blog called Holiday at Sea, started a photo journal, and even made a stop here in humble Charlotte. 

Above: just a smattering of some of my favorite time warp interiors (these are actual places she crashed at).

The ever-talented Melissa McDougall took this photograph of her cat "Suzie" last week. Pretty dang awesome... I had to share. Melissa is also the Wire & Bead Ring designer for Not Made In China, my co-worker, and all around great friend.