Have you heard of Itizen? It’s an online service that captures the unique stories of things. It’s a site that provides a way to tell, share, and follow the “life stories” of unique and meaningful objects. Users place Itizen TRACKit Tags on anything that has an intriguing story. Alphanumeric and QR codes on the tags connect the physical objects to their user-generated online stories that are co-authored by the people who make them, the people who own them, or anyone connected to them. Makers and sellers of interesting things can talk about their products—how they made it and from where it came. Buyers drawn to one-of-a-kind objects can access information on what makes the items unique. Givers can enhance the meaningfulness of the things they give. If items are sold, gifted, or otherwise passed on, the stories go with them. As a result, these stories give context and meaning to the things around us, and make the objects themselves more interesting and potentially more valuable. Itizen’s services can support the growing number of micro-businesses such as artisans and independent retailers who sell handmade, vintage, or other unique products. What a cool idea! Check it out at itizen.com.

The National Addy Awards were held last weekend in Orlando and KW2’s Park Bank Annual Report took home a gold. This Madison firm was in good company with agencies like BBDO, Publicis, Design Army, Leo Burnett, Deutsch, Venables Bell & Partners and Ogilvy. I love this non-traditional format. See all the gold winners here.

I love a fine wine, so why wouldn’t I love this cork trivet made by Sconnie artist Enid. Buy one for just $12 here.

With this great weather, I’ve seen more and more bicycles dusted off and out on the town. It’s always fun to buy a new accessory for the season to spiff up your ride. How about one of these gorgeous leather bike seats from leather artist Kara Ginther in Madison. Kara creates these incredible hand carved brooks saddles that are almost too pretty to sit on. Kara says “nothing pleases me more than to be able to rejuvenate old leather with fresh pattern and color.  I love giving new life to antique luggage, purses, belts, shoes… anything really.”

I hope you have an egg-cellent weekend!  (image unknown)

Need some design inspiration in Milwaukee? Design*Sponge posted a city guide written by Sara of Cream City and Sugar. Some of my favorites are MAM, Alterra, Broadway Paper and Public Market, but they forgot Balistreri’s Pizza on 68th St! Check it out — and do you remember Madison’s city guide? I talked about it last April. Such great cities in our great state!

A few St. Patty’s day inspired designs from some sconnie artists. I’ll take one of each, thanks.

Lucky photograph by f2images.

Lucky Clover necklace by mcrdesigns.

Handstamped Bracelet by Mindy Kuen.

Spring green clutch by Jennifer Ladd.