Ella & Joy

marriage

2011-04-19T13:27:00.002-05:00

I've been enjoying this song lately. Every time I hear it I am reminded of how much I love the husband and how lucky we are to live our life together. This is my favorite part of the song.

"I do" are the two most famous last words
The beginning of the end
But to lose your life for another I've heard
Is a good place to begin

'Cause the only way to find your life
Is to lay your own life down
And I believe it's an easy price
For the life that we have found

And we're dancing in the minefields
We're sailing in the storm
This is harder than we dreamed
But I believe that's what the promise is for

So when I lose my way, find me
When I loose love's chains, bind me
At the end of all my faith, till the end of all my days
When I forget my name, remind me

evernote

2011-03-31T17:13:00.004-05:00

I've been using evernote lately to store my bookmarks and links. I think I'm in love with the way it is structured and I'm still learning new ways to use it.

Here is a screenshot of my inspiration links. These are anything from party themes, diy projects, clothes I love, colors I love, pictures that are pretty, etc. I love to just scroll through and find themes in the pictures that stand out to me. For example, I like pink.

And here are the recipes. I'm so visual when it comes to food. I hate following recipes that don't have pictures. It's so fun to look at this and pick something out based on how delicious it looks.

I also have a pinterest account, but for some reason I'm not getting in to it. Maybe when I have more time I can explore a little.

listening to {blue mother tupelo}

2011-03-31T17:11:00.003-05:00

Blue Mother Tupelo is a duo I randomly found back in my myspace days. Last weekend I pseudo-randomly checked the schedule for 8th and Rail in Opelika and was ecstatic to see they were playing there the next night.

So I convinced the husband to go out two nights in a row to the same place, and on a Saturday night, so I could see them play. That's a little misleading. It wasn't really convincing...I just said "we're coming tomorrow night too!" and he said "sure".

They were so good live. Super fun and down to earth. There weren't many people there so we got to talk to them about Knoxville and even exchanged hugs at the end of the night (and I don't really hug so that's big).

This is my favorite song.

And from their new album I love Always Lookin' and The War. The piano on The War is great!

my new bag

2011-03-31T14:11:00.004-05:00

So, I've been looking for a new bag for quite a while. I find I'm really hard to please in this department. I generally can't afford good quality leather and the fake stuff looks so cheap to me. Anything other material usually doesn't last very long. I always see bags I love walking around campus or the grocery or the airport. But I can never find them when I am looking.

So, I found this handmade beauty on etsy (from seller TaynaErnst)a few months ago and severely coveted it for a long time.
It got so bad that once when I looked it had sold and I sent the seller a panicked email asking if it was a one-time sell or something she made multiples of. She compassionately reassured me that she just posts the bag one at a time and makes a new one as it sells. Whew....:).

I finally decided to bite the bullet and buy the bag as my birthday present to myself (with the help of the mother-in-law. Really, the purchase was an attempt to improve my relationship with God. I make a daily effort to avoid sin. Coveting is definitely a sin. So by purchasing the bag, I no longer coveted. I was reconciled. (The Father, Son and Holy Spirit all appreciate a little theology stretch, no?).

Let me tell you. I am in love. I don't mean I love my bag. I mean I am in love. Sometimes I just sit and stare at it. I carried it today for the first time other than car to office. I felt like I was taking a new boyfriend to meet friends for the first time. Seriously. I'm in love.

Sorry for the bad pic. It doesn't do it justice.

back?

2011-03-31T13:45:00.003-05:00

I've been thinking I might be ready to start getting back to the blog. I'm not sure why I felt so burdened with it back in the fall. It's not like I had a huge commitment to my thousands of readers (although the few I had were special, of course :)).

I think I was just on inspiration overload. Maybe since I've had a few months of inspiration to build up, I can think of some things to write about now.

Fun times ahead...

hmm...

2010-09-24T13:13:00.001-05:00

This post about distraction is really hitting home for me. In some ways this is exactly how I have been feeling, and perhaps why I have not been such a good blogger as of late.

tag a friend

2010-09-15T11:40:00.004-05:00

How creepy is this new facebook feature...

They put a random shaded, zoomed picture up in the corner and ask you to tag the tiny highlighted face...it creeps me out.

And by the way, Friend, if you read my blog, it's not you that's creepy...it's the feature.

satellite

2010-09-14T12:46:00.002-05:00

So I was in a little fender bender a couple of weeks ago and my car has been in the shop. My rental has satellite radio and I am dreading the day that I have to give it back. Here are the songs that make me stop my station surfing and belt it out.

Jonah Smith - World Without Love

I tried to add the others with grooveshark but it is apparently struggling. And I can't find any normal youtube videos of them (no that the Jonah Smith video is normal...just sayin) so I will just list them here.

Pink - Glitter in the Air
Plain White T's - Rhythm of Love (acoustic version is great)
MercyMe - All of Creation

I have really random taste in music...

these days

2010-08-18T13:43:00.003-05:00

I haven't been a good blogger.

But these are some things I'm loving right now:

{chil l - specifically Tart with cocoa pebbles, coconut & blueberries}

{a bazillion students back on campus}

{freshly grated Parmesan cheese}

{Project Runway & Top Chef}

{fresh cherries}

{friends with a new baby!}

And these are some things I'm not loving right now:

{those dumb Bravo commercials with all of their "stars" around the pool}

{the heat - it's freakin' hot}

{no parking spots to be found}

book tables

2010-07-21T14:43:00.002-05:00

I am loving these book tables I saw on Design*Sponge. I'm thinking I definitely want to do this!

'Cause I have so much free time now that Camp is over!!!

operation: get my life back

2010-07-19T12:59:00.003-05:00

Camp War Eagle 2010 is over! Here are some shots from our banquets this weekend and some of my favorite people.

Now, it is time to get my life back. I have a long list of things to do. They are listed below, not necessarily in order of importance, but in the order I will be doing them.

1. Sleep.

2. Clean my office. It's overwhelming. And it it's a problem for me, then it's a problem.

3. Talk to John about something other than Camp War Eagle.

4. Get my hair done.

5. Spend some time with family and friends in Tennessee. I cannot wait.

6. Eat real food not prepared by Tiger Dining or Chic-Fil-A.

7. Get re-focused with diet and exercise. Which means making a reappearance at the gym.

8. Use my spa gift certificate I got from the Head Counselors.

9. Clean my house.

10. Finish some personal projects that I have been working on for a long time.

11. Get ready for the Fall semester.

12. Blog more.

I can't wait to do the first one...

flag day

2010-07-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

I meant to post this on Flag Day, when it actually happened, but I forgot.

So, close your eyes and pretend it is Flag Day...

As I was driving to work this morning, the radio announced that it was Flag Day. Well, the radio didn't announce it so much as the morning radio personality did, but you get the idea. It struck me that I don't even really know what Flag Day is. I mean, I can make a guess based on context clues (as Mr. Pedigo used to say), but nothing for sure.

So, just in case you were also wondering, it commemorates the day that the US flag was adopted, on June 14, 1777. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson made a proclamation that officially put this day on the calendar. Well, he didn't put June 14 on the calendar...it was already there. He put Flag Day on the calendar.

It just so happened that I was running a bit late for work that day and parked in a meter spot that just so happened to be directly in front of the flag pole next to Samford Hall. As I got out of the car I noticed that the ROTC cadets were marching up to raise the flag for the day. For some reason it really captivated me. As far as they were concerned, no one was watching. They marched in a straight line up to the flag pole with their solemn faces and 90 degree turns. They did this out of requirement, out of duty and out of respect. I stood there for a few minutes watching and since that day have been thinking about the flag and what it means and patriotism in general.

I don't think I would label myself as patriotic. I definitely wouldn't label myself as unpatriotic. I don't wear red on 4th of July (or on a normal day - fiery coral maybe, but not red). I own no American Flag paraphernalia. And I don't want to put a boot in anyone's a$$ (thank you Toby Keith).

I consider myself to be a very objective person. So objectively, I can say that my country is not perfect. In general, I would say our flaws are arrogance and lack of perspective. Nothing is perfect, right?

But I can say that I'm proud to be an American (thank you Lee Greenwood). And I am thankful for the men and women who made/make it possible for me to live freely. The men and women who protect not only my rights as a citizen, but the human rights of people around the world. I am thankful for the soldiers, airmen, sailors and marines. I am thankful for the government officials who devote their lives. And I am thankful for the ordinary civilians who make bettering our world a priority.

I am thankful for the freedom to love my country while at the same time, wish for it to be better.

Now open your eyes.

It's not Flag Day anymore. It's July 4th.

For several years we celebrated the 4th with a cookout at my Uncle Sam's house. Yes, I have a real Uncle Sam - a retired Marine. We would have burgers and beans, volleyball and great conversation. Someone would yell "Whoa Nelly!" (inside joke). I miss my family today.

I am thankful to be part of this one nation under God. That's right Mrs. Brinkmann, there's no comma.

And I am hopeful for a future of liberty and justice for all.

lists

2010-07-02T11:58:00.003-05:00

Stumbled across listography today after stumbling across this great list.

It's already sucked up too much of my time. I've created 4 lists so far, including a list of lists I want to make. Crazy?

I'm sure they will appear here sooner or later. First up will be things I want to do before I turn 31.

Why 31? Because 30 is too soon. No need to freak myself out.

And I need to make 31 more interesting. 30 is already a milestone in itself.

Good times.

new favorites

2010-06-28T15:39:00.001-05:00

In my short time at Bonnaroo a couple of weeks ago I found a new favorite band.

They are great! Take a listen...

missing them

2010-06-18T12:07:00.001-05:00

For some reason right now, I am really missing my friends. A lot.

The last few times I have been to Tennessee I haven't been able to see them. They're crazy schedules and our awesome families have kept us from spending quality time together.

And then there are my friends scattered all over the place that I may have not seen in over a year.

I live for the day that the smart men and women of the world invent a teleportation device. I should probably start investing money in that research right now.

Lately, almost everything fun I want to do seems less fun because I can't do it with my best friends. I want to be in their presence, hear their voices and feel their hugs. Most of all, I want to laugh with them!

This is how I feel about my friends -

"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born."
- Anais Nin

And I miss them. A lot.

And I'm a little sad. No, a lot.

I love you! A lot.

to carry

2010-06-09T16:01:00.002-05:00

If I had a guitar, I would carry it in this.

And I would like to pack my weekend clothes in this.

from Pedlars via Oh Joy!

good music

2010-06-04T17:52:00.001-05:00

I've been enjoying some amazing guitar playing by Andy McKee as the soundtrack to my work week lately. I could listen to him all day long.

Enjoy.

so so busy

2010-06-01T17:20:00.002-05:00

These past few weeks have been insane.

Barely time to breathe.

Every day I sit down and think...this is the day I will remember to do a blog post.

Or not.

Here are some things that have been keeping me going...

dark chocolate

John

good music (Avett Brothers specifically)

iced grande skinny cinnamon dolce latte

John

fun coworkers and great students

season and series finales

lots and lots of water

John

visions of July

phone calls with my mom

thoughts of professional friends across the country going through the same thing

tiny bits of retail therapy

John

How did I get so lucky?

wrap up

2010-05-12T09:13:00.002-05:00

I just remembered I never wrote about Day 3.

It was basically just breakfast and a search for a suitcase because we bought too much wine!

Breakfast was at Crepes, etc. I had some delicious farmers cheese pancakes with lemon curd and blueberries and John had a crepe with steak in it.

And we found a duffle bag at wal-mart. Success.

The highlight of the day was seeing some friends once we got back into Birmingham. We watched the Derby, drank mint juleps and went to dinner. These were friends from grad school and undergrad that I don't see often enough! A great mixture of reminiscing and getting to know who they are now.

All together, a great mini-vacation before my summer craziness begins.

rain delay

2010-05-07T09:22:00.003-05:00

Day 2...

Started off with breakfast at Rooster. Yummm. John had what he has declared the best breakfast ever, the rooster slinger. I do have to admit, it was pretty good. But I also greatly enjoyed my goat cheese crepe. They also have a fun mimosa and bloody merry menu. I had a bellini, because I love them. And it's hard to find a real bellini, not the crazy frozen concoction, just champagne and pureed peaches.

We followed breakfast up with a trip to the Arch. It was field trip day. Good views, but I couldn't handle it for long. Crazy kids.

In the afternoon we ventured out of the city to visit a couple of wineries. We weren't super impressed but did find a good lunch at Wine Country Gardens in Defiance.

Really the whole point of the trip was seeing the Cardinals play. Unfortunately the weather forecast for Friday night was not promising. But I told John I would sit through any amount of rain for him to get to see the game....because that's the kind of person I am.

It was sluggies night at Busch Stadium...yes...we both got a Cardinals snuggie...

We got to the stadium and stumbled across a very nice scalper right away. He had some seats under cover, which I strongly encouraged John to buy. They ended up being in the Red Bird Club, which meant we got to ride an elevator up. Yes, we were special.

The game started on time and everything looked rosy until about the beginning of the 4th inning. It started misting, then sprinkling, then raining, then pouring. Then the light show. I mean the lightning was unreal - gorgeous and scary...I love storms. They stopped play and covered the field halfway through the 5th.

Yes, that is the radar on the jumbotron. And yes, that red area was headed right toward us.

That was about 8:45. Around 10:55 it finally stopped raining and they began working on the field to start play again. At this point, there were approximately 5 people left at the game...well maybe a few more than that. And to John's utter delight - they let everyone move down to the good seats! We were about 8 rows back right behind home plate. And the first Cardinal up to bat was Albert Pujols. Who is hot.

Unfortunately, the Cardinals didn't pull out a win. If they had called them game in the 5th inning instead of delaying they would have won. But oh well, at least we got to see a whole game!

Fun times!

st. louis

2010-05-05T08:53:00.003-05:00

John and I went on a mini-vacation to St. Louis this past weekend. Southwest had cheap flights and he loves the Cardinals.

We had a great time exploring St. Louis and really just relaxing. Forgoing an expensive hotel room, we found a great apartment available to rent. It will definitely be our go-to place to stay when we make inevitable return trips.

I found some new favorites while there so I thought I would report back.

The apartment was on the edge of a super-cute neighborhood in the Central West End. Thursday we had lunch at Pi and enjoyed some deep dish pizza. For drinks, John had some kind of whiskey concoction that he loved. I don't remember exactly what was in mine, but I included agave syrup and basil and it was delish.

We walked around for a while exploring the area, including the gated street communities - a unique part of St. Louis. After our walk we stopped in a wine shop, The Vino Gallery. There, I found my new favorite wine. Seriously, it's delicious. But I can't find it online - guess we will have to go back to St. Louis to get more!

And that was Day 1...

xtra

2010-04-27T16:48:00.001-05:00

is only one less letter than

extra

what's the point?

discuss.

meet-cute

2010-04-20T15:06:00.002-05:00

I don't watch commercials (thank you dvr), but I might if they were all like this.

Who knows what a meet-cute is? And where I got it from?

satc

2010-04-09T08:52:00.004-05:00

I can't wait for this movie. After watching the first trailer, I though the desert/camel story line was going to be cheesy...and it still may be.

But when I got to 1:45 in this trailer, I felt my heart leap!

Who wants to go with me?

montana shapes up

2010-04-06T17:43:00.002-05:00

This is totally random...seriously...

But you know those shape-up shoes that look really strange? I've been talking about them for a while and how they totally don't make any sense to me. And they are expensive! And not cute!

Well I saw a commercial for them this morning. And guess who is endorsing them? Joe Montana! I had to rewind and listen to the voice over again to make sure I heard and saw the name correctly. Some people will do anything for money...

Imagine my surprise when I couldn't find any video or pictures of him actually wearing the shoe...

What a strange marketing decision!

a message

2010-03-31T19:16:00.003-05:00

Life is so busy. Sometimes it seems I don't have time to even think about what I'm doing. I'm just on autopilot.

But this week, I have continuously been interrupted with the message of Easter.

And what a message it is.

What He did for us is unimaginable. He bears the burden of my sin. I am forgiven and my sins are forgotten. In God's eyes I am His perfect child.

The sorrow of today leads to victory.

If you're interested, here are a few of my favorite "Easter" songs. (warning: the videos are possibly {definitely} a little awkward...but it's the easiest way to find and link them)

what next?

2010-03-30T09:05:00.000-05:00

Life rolls out in pieces. For 18 years I lived a life neatly divided by summer vacation. Every 10 months I got a 2 month break and then an exciting new adventure. Even before I started school, I celebrated summer with my mother who got to be home from work.

Then I went to college. From my first day in this new adventure, I knew when it would end. I had four years to live it up in the "best time of my life". And I did.

Then on to graduate school. Two years. A set amount of time to learn it all and become a real life adult.

And as I got my first job, John started divinity school. In three years it would be time for another change. At the very least, a move, maybe a new job.

Now, here we are in Alabama. Both working with no end in sight. No predetermined amount of time to be in this piece. Our life stretches before us. Like we were on the yellow brick road that lead to a clear destination. But now someone has painted over it with chalkboard paint ('cause it's trendy) and we have to write our own story.

What will be the catalyst? Will we just know when it's time to make a change? Will we be able to resist making change for the sake of change?

Now is the time when you hope to God (I'm not using His name in vain...I truly hope and pray to God) that you know who you are. That all those years of self-reflection and the trials of life taught you something. That you trust (without wavering) the person you are making decisions with.

What next?

Who knows?

ruffles

2010-03-22T14:53:00.003-05:00

I get so excited when I start new projects. My hope is always that I can keep that excitement up until they are finished....

So, here is what I'm working on now...

some felt ruffly wall art for our bedroom (you're welcome John...).

Inspired by this tutorial...

and the colors of this dress (my favorite of the Oscar's)

I found 3 great shades of purple felt this weekend and am only looking for one more lighter shade. I spent a good bit of time yesterday cutting circles but have many more to cut! Instead of a wreath, I am doing a giant rectangle - so one big block of purple felt ruffles!

I'll keep you posted!

spring break

2010-03-19T14:34:00.003-05:00

The weather is beautiful in Auburn today. It actually really feels like spring!

This is the last day of what is usually one of my most productive weeks of the year. The students are gone, parking is so easy and it's time for me to get some work done!

However, this year, I got sick. So, I was productive at home on Monday and Tuesday sleeping the day away. I also watched several movies - including Whit It and Up in the Air. Both great!

My 3-day work week didn't come along with quite as much productivity as I would normally like in a spring break. I did get some projects started and a couple finished. And I made major progress in my inbox.

The most important thing I got done was finally hanging some stuff on my office walls. The lovely hubby came today to help me hang - which is actually one of his favorite things to do :).

The close-up is a scarf I bought super-cheap on ebay then threw in a frame. Love it. And there on the bottom right are the 21 people I spent one of the best summers of my life with as an Orientation Leader at the University of Tennessee. One look at that picture and I am back in Clement Hall, the Beacon Drive-In, Target or the Big Orange Bash. Good times...

This weekend I'm on the hunt for bedside lamps, something to wear for Easter, black flats and a new spring purse.

st. patrick

2010-03-17T15:07:00.004-05:00

I don't really wear green - so I am definitely in danger of getting pinched today. Luckily, only one person as called me out on it and she was nice enough to only threaten!

So instead of my wardrobe - I decided to post some green inspiration here - I think it counts.

a calendar version of this print from Yee-Haw is currently hanging in my newly painted green kitchen now!

Lea Michele in Malandrino at the SAG Awards - My favorite red carpet look of the season!

from dazeychic on Etsy

emerald & aquamarine inspiration board from snippet & ink

georgeous clutch from redrubyrose

blue and orange

2010-03-04T18:15:00.006-06:00

So, this is old news. But I was thinking today about the Project Runway episode a few weeks ago in which Tory Burch blasted Amy (my favorite) for her cute outfit.

First, I think this look is cute. If only the pants were a skirt.

Second, the biggest critique from Ms. Burch was that blue and orange aren't complimentary colors. What?!?

via Elements of Style from Boston Magazine

home design

my favorite Paper Source colors: Papaya and Pool

And this post from Houzz has many more pictures.

Oh Tory.....

29

2010-03-03T13:32:00.004-06:00

I think you're going to be a good year.

I celebrated you yesterday by going to work. And then to dinner. Where I officially disasterated my healthy eating. But it was all for you. And worth it. It's only one day.

The husband gave me this....

so pretty. And so useful in making some macarons.

Which, coincidentally, I had some of this weekend. From a new source. Old City Java, where my sister-in-law works in Knoxville. Baked by this person, who though I've never met, I hear is wonderful. She can definitely bake.

anyway

My parents gave me these...

I'm collecting. This was my great-aunt's pattern. Her name was Ella.

In addition, my mom gave me life. Something I greatly appreciate. And on her birthday no less. She once called me the gift that keeps on taking.

I'm a fan. Of her that is.

oh, canada

2010-03-01T17:39:00.003-06:00

What a great Olympics!

It started out with some technical glitches - but I liked the way you made fun of yourself at the Closing Ceremonies.

I love the Olympics. I love the stories. And the looks on the athlete's faces when they realize they won! Or that that they did better than expected!

Here are some great images (see more).

best outfit of the games!

heart and soul

my new favorite event - snowboard cross - so exciting!

and here's a great Olympics commercial!

Best part about the Olympics? I still have hours and hours of unwatched competition left on my dvr. Even though I already know who won - I will definitely be watching!

mi cocina {dried chickpeas}

2010-02-26T10:00:00.000-06:00

So...it has been a while since I've done this. I promise its not because I haven't been cooking new things. I have! I just haven't had time to write about it.

This is one of my favorite new snacks. John and I have been trying to eat new and better things and these have been a life saver for me over the past few weeks.

Dried Chickpeas
2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
pinch of cayenne pepper

Toss the ingredients then spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for about 45 minutes or until golden. Shake the pan a few times during cooking.

These are delicious! You can alter the spices to your liking. I haven't been using that much salt but more cayenne pepper. I also tried it once with some Mexican chili-lime spices instead of the pepper. It was good, but I like the cayenne better. I will keep experimenting.

little green notebook

2010-02-25T14:33:00.002-06:00

This is one of my new favorite blogs.

She is a very talented DIYer. Not sure where she gets the time.

I'm thinking about doing these great pelmet boxes for my bedroom.

She makes it look so easy...not sure if I'm that talented!

favorites

2010-02-24T17:38:00.004-06:00

My firefox favorites went away a few weeks ago.

I got them back yesterday.

It was like being reunited with a long-lost friend.

I skimmed through quickly to be reminded about what was there...

this post from a mother

this letter from a father

this great picture

these turkey mini-meatloaves

this great wreath (it could be for Spring right? not just Christmas? maybe in square?)

Hey favorites. It's good to have you back.

slammed

2010-02-09T12:16:00.002-06:00

at work.

barely time to breathe.

or eat.

but this is what I am listening to to calm myself down...

and this

and this

for my hearth

2010-02-04T16:00:00.005-06:00

I would really like to get some floor pillows to add a little more seating on the hearth in my living room. Here are the options I have found...some are out of my price range...but still great!

from Crate & Barr el

a little random...but pretty great

from West Elm

these would be the aforementioned "out of my price range" from Viva Terra

as would these from Design Within Reach

the lost boys

2010-02-02T17:23:00.003-06:00

I mentioned watching God Grew Tired of Us last weekend.

If you haven't seen this, put it on your list now. And get to it fast.

This clip is heartbreaking and hard to watch. It is so unbelieveable that this happens in our world in our time.

This clip is also unbelievable. Try to imagine for a minute going from a tent camp in the African desert to an apartment in Syracuse or Pittsburg. What a foreign world. You are suddenly expected to assimilate into something you never knew existed. While once you thought of nothing but hunger and survival, you now walk into a grocery store with more food than you could eat in your lifetime.

But the end is the amazing part. To see how far they have come, and how committed they are to changing their world. It's not a story about lost boys making good in America. It's about heartache and courage and hard work and remembering your past and changing your future. And it's good.

mi cocina {egg drop bake}

2010-01-29T15:48:00.000-06:00

Who needs another super simple way to cook eggs? Me!

This recipe is so easy and takes barely any time. We made two adjustments: we added mushrooms and cooked it in a larger dish because we didn't have ramekins.

So, we just covered the bottom of the 7ishX9ish shallow oval casserole dish with onions, tomatoes and mushrooms then added enough shredded cheese to cover them. We dropped about 7 eggs spread out evenly and popped it in the oven. It did take longer to cook - I'm guessing because it was bigger. We probably left it in a little over 25 minutes. didn't try it reheated as leftovers but John did and he said it was good.

We did this for dinner, but I am going to try it next week for breakfast. I do have ramekins now so I am going to put in the veggies and cheese the night before then drop the egg and cook it in the morning. Should be super simple and fast.

Maybe I will add spinach? Maybe zucchini? Yummm...

ps22

2010-01-29T13:46:00.003-06:00

If this video doesn't bring a smile to your face...then I just don't know. These kids are so fun to watch!

That's why we need music and the arts in public schools.

reading

2010-01-28T17:20:00.002-06:00

I'm a fan of the Penguin Classics cloth bound books. I could buy them all today. But I won't.

I got Great Expectations for Christmas and I am going to make myself finish it before I buy another. What a great way to read the classics!

I think I will go for The Picture of Dorian Gray next.

Then Wuthering Heights.

Now where to find the time...

we saved the princess

2010-01-26T14:06:00.003-06:00

It was a great weekend! I spent lots of quality time with the husband and we got lots done! Some was work, some was fun, but it was all great.

I got done...
{one coat of kitchen paint, played with the dog, halfway cleaned my bedroom, saved the princess, taught Sunday school, slept late, watched God Grew Tired of Us (more to come on that later), caught up on Tivo, finished the tote project (more to come), hung out with John}

I was lacking in these areas...
{reading, watching Big Love, grocery shopping, going to the gym, other kitchen projects, and another recipe for this week}

However, as you will see, the list of things I did is much longer than what I didn't do!

I forget sometimes how nice it is to just be with John. We have a pretty good time together. And even though he gets a little made at me when I mess up in Super Mario, or I get frustrated that he kills me by going to fast through a world...we make a pretty good princess saving team!

And the kitchen...the verdict is not yet in. It's pretty bright for now, but hopefully a second coat will calm that down.

Unfortunately, the paint was not restricted to the wall...Juneau ended up with a big green dot on her back. Oh well.

production junction

2010-01-22T16:19:00.000-06:00

This weekend will be productive.

I am expecting a lot out of the next two days. They will be filled with fun, work and rejuvenation. This is what I will do:

{paint my kitchen}

{play with the dog}

{clean my bedroom}

{save the princess}

{go to the grocery}

{read}

{teach Sunday school}

{sleep late}

{watch God Grew Tired of Us}

{catch up on tivo}

{finally put away all of our stuff from Christmas}

{finish a DIY tote project}

{start some DIY kitchen projects}

{pick out a new recipe for next week}

{hang out with John}

{watch some Big Love}

{go to the gym}

{get ready for another week}

That's a lot! I'll report back with some results on Monday!

mi cocina {sausage and sweet potato soup}

2010-01-22T16:15:00.002-06:00

You may be thinking what I thought the first time I saw this. And what John thought when I asked him if I could try it. And what everyone else has thought when I have mentioned it....um....that doesn't sound good.

but

don't be deceived. It may not sound good, but I promise, it is delicious.

however

Buying the right kind of sausage=fail
Everything else=success!

You can find the recipe here. Smitten Kitchen is one of my favorite recipe blogs. She is so descriptive - and pretty funny too!

After some difficulty finding Chorizo in our area, John finally found it at Fresh Market. I wasn't sure if it was the right kind, but we figured we would go for it. Well, apparently, it was smoked, and apparently, we shouldn't have put it in a pot with oil. Because our house looked like it was on fire there was so much smoke. And when I took it out of the pot it was hard as a rock. So, we threw that away. But, we had a little leftover we hadn't put in the oil so we just saved that and threw it in at the end and it was fine.

Other than the sausage debacle, the soup was super easy. I didn't chop anything ahead of time and it still took less than an hour start to finish. John is not a huge sweet potato fan but he loved it. He's also not a huge spinach fan so I didn't put in the full 9 ounces. However, next time if I chop it smaller I will add even more than it calls for. We did add one can of white beans and will probably add two next time.

In summary, it was really good. You should make it.

away we go

2010-01-21T17:43:00.000-06:00

I am really loving my netflix subscription. We've only gotten a few dvds so far, but I've enjoyed catching up on Big Love. And Away We Go was fantastic.

If you haven't seen this movie, you are missing out. I love the stroller scene. Laugh out loud.

The soundtrack is great as well. I am definitely a new fan of Alexi Murdoch and really enjoy George Harrison's What is Life.

I watched the movie a couple of weeks ago and have thought a lot about it since. It was so quiet and unassuming. Different people flowed in and out of Burt and Verona's life as they searched for their place and what they needed out of life.

It was a great lesson in making purposeful decisions about the kind of life you lead. Nothing is predetermined. Your decisions are your own.

In the end, all they needed was each other and a stronghold on a piece of the past that was lost.

frozen yogurt

2010-01-19T13:48:00.004-06:00

A few months ago Cambridge Coffee in Auburn closed. It was a sad day.

I heard rumor someone was opening a hot dog shop. Yeah. Hot dogs. Another sad day.

But today was not sad.

I drove past the old Cambridge Coffee location today and saw this sign:

As I sped past trying to get a spot in the semi-close parking lot, my optimistic mind thought I read the words frozen yogurt...

When I got to work I hopefully googled and learned that yes! This is a frozen yogurt chain...with an original tart recipe...and lots of yummy toppings.

I'm sooo excited about Tutti Frutti! The website says the Auburn location is coming soon.

Way better than a hot dog shop.

mi cocina {sloppy joes}

2010-01-15T16:28:00.003-06:00

I know....sloppy joes?

I asked John what he wanted that we never have and that's what he said. Then I asked him how to make them. He said meat and manwich.

yeah

So I googled and came across this Sloppy Joe recipe from Martha. It's a little healthier - using turkey instead of beef and adding carrots. Plus - I control what goes in it.

Full disclosure: I don't know that I would classify this as a sloppy joe. More sloppy joe-esque. But it was really good. I added a tad bit more Worcestershire and a little spicy brown mustard.

I think this would go well with rice. But I said that a couple of times and John didn't agree...so who knows.

I think he's partial to the manwich...

wind

2010-01-14T15:13:00.002-06:00

"I seem to annoy them. I get on their nerves. I don't know why."

Love this commercial.

warmth

2010-01-12T14:08:00.000-06:00

how I've missed you

In honor of spring (which feels too far away) here are some clothes I am dreaming of...

I wanted to put a sweater with it...but I am no good at pairing dresses and sweaters!
Anthropologie dress; A Little Hamster earrings and necklace; Anthropologie coin purse; Kelsi Dagger sandals

Anthropologie dress, earrings, necklace and clutch; J.Crew heels

Anthropologie dress; Stella Bella necklace; Anthropologie bag, flats and heels ( I couldn't decide!)

I guess this is still a little winterish; but you need a transition right?
Anthropologie jacket and shirt; Maya Brenner necklace; Anthopologie bag, pants and boots

I have to say, picking this stuff out is just as good as buying it, wearing it and loving it forever. Right??

television

2010-01-11T13:55:00.000-06:00

One of my goals for ~~this year~~ the rest of my life is to cut out some tv. Anyone who knows me can attest to the fact that I probably watch a bit too much.

Why, you might ask, do I feel the need to cut it out? It's not really because tv rots your brain (although it probably does). It's also not because I am not entertained by the current offerings of the magical box (because, unfortunately, I am). It's not even because I don't have time (let's be real - you can make time to do the things you love). It's simply because there are other things I want and need to be doing.

For some reason, tv has a supernatural hold on me. It sucks me in and makes me keep watching - even when it's terrible! I plop on the couch to watch one thing and 3 hours later I realize it's time to get in bed if I want to wake up even remotely close to the correct time. So, sorry television, you've got to go. Don't get too sad - I'm not cutting you out completely - just using you in moderation. That's the way to go I hear. However, you do deserve a proper goodbye.

Here are some of the programs that will no longer be graced by my viewing:

The Bachelor
I know - how could I give this up when by all accounts this is the cheesiest and most dramatic season yet? Alas, it has to be done.

Survivor
Not even the first week of a handful of shirtless, pretty men can keep me (I say first week because after that they start to look sickly).

Secret Life of the American Teenager & Make It or Break It
Oh ABC Family, how you suck me in. But I rebuke your acting-challenged actors and melodramatic storylines for good!

Scrubs
ABC, while I will be eternally grateful for your rescue of one of my favorite shows ever and for providing a proper send-off for the main characters, I must bid adieu to the new class. References to relationships aren't enough to keep me. I miss Janitor. And I miss Ted. And quite frankly, the new ones just aren't funny enough.

90210 & Melrose Place
We broke up in September, but I wanted to air our dirty laundry. We've been on-again-off-again from the beginning. It's time for me to respect myself and move on!

Chris Harrison and Jeff Probst, I'll miss you the most!

What will I be doing with my newly discovered time? Fulfill my commitment of nightly workouts, broaden my cooking and crafting horizons, enjoy working through my netflix que, and spend time with the hubby and dog. And further my obsession and hone my skills on Wii fit and Super Mario Brothers Wii!

mi cocina {macarons}

2010-01-08T12:49:00.000-06:00

photo from Mad Baker's flikr stream

So I've talked about these delicious meringue sandwich (so much more than) cookies before and have been wanting to make them for quite some time. But every time I searched for a recipe I got intimidated by the whole process. There are entire blogs dedicated to making the perfect macarons! Every recipe or description I read told me to do something different. It was too much!

But when I finally got to taste the little suckers in San Francisco (and not just imagine that they were the most delicious things ever) my fate was sealed.

I chose to make my first attempt in Tennessee and enlisted my mom and aunt (and her stand mixer) to help since they are experienced bakers. After looking at dozens of recipes, I decided to go with the simplest to understand, which ended up being Martha's. I went with a simple chocolate ganache filling from Serious Eats.

The Macaron Cookies

There were a few things I decided not/forgot to do so my execution differed slightly than the recipe and everything I have read about cooking macarons. For example, almost all of the detailed instructions for cooking macarons stress the importance for aging the egg whites. Which just means leaving them out on the counter in a bowl for 24-48 hours. I forgot about that so ours only aged about 2 hours.

We also didn't blanch the almonds. I probably will next time, but they were really fine they way they were. They tasted nuttier and weren't as smooth as the others I have tried, but it worked fine. My aunt beat the eggs (which is what I was probably what I was most nervous about). The batter was supposed to "flow like magma" when we piped it out and it didn't quite do that. The eggs may have been a bit over done - or maybe it was the lack of aging.

All in all the cookies turned out pretty good. Martha's directions say to let the batter stand after you've piped it until the surface is dry and dull, about 15 minutes. It took much longer than 15 minutes for us. More like 2 hours. Also, she says to cook on 350 for 15 minutes which is higher and longer than other recipes I have read. Luckily I had three sheets of batter piped so I could experiment with time and temp. The first sheet we did exactly like the recipe said and they were a little over done; crunchier and toastier than they should have been. The second we did at the same temp for more like 12 minutes. They were a little better but not quite what I was looking for. The third batch was great....but by accident. My dad thought we were done and turned the oven off. So, they baked for about 12 minutes at some temperature less than 350. All three pans
of macarons developed the coveted "feet" though not as pronounced as they probably should have been.

The Chocolate Ganache

I did the ganache pretty much exactly like the recipe said. The only change was because my mom misunderstood the amount of chocolate she was supposed to get (and it wasn't Valrhona Guanaja...whatever that is). We ended up using 4 oz of chopped Ghirardelli and approximately 4 oz of chopped-ish Hershey's chocolate chips. It was delicious!! I could probably make this again just to eat with a spoon! We let it sit for probably an hour and a half and it was the perfect consistency. We did also leave it out on the counter in a ziploc bag overnight and it was just a perfect squeezed into my mouth!

In Summary

For both of our piping needs we skipped pastry bags and tips and used ziploc bags with the corners cut off. It worked fine but I will probably eventually get real bags and tips. We ate some right out of the oven, tried a few more an hour or so later, and refigerated the rest and ate them over the next couple of days. The refrigerated were by far the best but I will never be able to resist them right out of the oven!

I was pretty happy with my first try at macarons. None of the tragic stuff happened that I read about and they were quite good. I am looking forward to my next attempt, which may come next weekend! I will be branching out next and trying some new flavors. I may stick with the basic cookie recipe but with a new filling and maybe they will even be colorful!....oooohhh...

Here are my options for the next try:

Blackberry & Raspberry with Ginger Lime Buttercream via Mowielicious

Chestnut Macarons with Pink Champagne via Mowielicious

Macarons with Salted Almond Butter Filling via AlpineBerry

Lavender & Rose Macarons via Pease Pudding

Stay tuned!

mi cocina

2010-01-07T16:08:00.004-06:00

I tease my mom about never teaching me to cook. She replies that I never stayed home long enough. She's probably right.

I'm not a bad cook, just not terribly creative or confidant. I stick to the same old stuff, over-complicate things when they are simple, and scare easily when they are the least bit involved. I think my biggest fault is my lack of familiarity with ingredients, processes and equipment. However, I'm starting to understand that the more I do it, the better I will get!

So I'm starting something new in an effort to force myself to try new things in the world of cooking. Each Friday I'm going post a new recipe I have tried and how it turned out for me. Hopefully they will all be amazing - but I am expecting some failures!

I am calling each cooking installment mi cocina for one of two reasons: a) my rich Hispanic heritage or b) I once ate at a restaurant called mi cocina in the West Village in Dallas and it was amazing (especially the sangria frozen margarita...yum) plus marked one of my favorite sight-seeing days at any NODA conference where we stumbled upon a large community fall festival complete with pumpking carving and a great band that I just reminded myself of!

If you answered B you not only made it through that run-on sentence, but you are right! For some reason that meal has stuck with me and I like the thought of this being about my kitchen and what I learn to do with it.

So, check in tomorrow for my first installment!

favorite gifts

2010-01-07T15:43:00.000-06:00

As I mentioned in the previous post, John and I enjoyed some wonderful moments in Tennessee with our families. And obviously the time and memories are irreplaceable and unforgettable; in addition to the Christmas messages of peace, hope, grace and love. I think I did well in my desire to "take time to be holy" and succeeded in enjoying the moments.

However, and also just as obvious, I am somewhat more materialistic than I would like to be. I wish it weren't so, but there it is. So I can't not tell you about some of the great gifts I got!

{behold my new Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker, which I have already used several times for several recipes, not the least of which is this frozen yogurt recipe from Oh Joy! via Design*Sponge}

{some great new jewelry including, but not limited to, these lovelies, which will aid in my mid-year's resolution to add accessories}

{Beauty and the Beast on DVD which I have strongly desired since my Pandora broadway station played some selections months ago and which my super husband found for me on ebay}

{some delicious homebaked bread from my sis-in-law that has inspired me to be more bold with my baking; which I will achieve through the help of some super useful cookbooks from another sis-in-law and mom}

{some hammered copper doors my little brother finished for a cabinet- I've been waiting for them for a while!}

{a lottery ticket! from which I won another ticket! from which I won $5!}

I absolutely loved everything I got - even/especially the little stuff. But honestly, the best gift was spending time with family and friends that I don't get to see nearly enough.

favorite moments

2010-01-06T14:27:00.000-06:00

Moments I enjoyed the most on my break...

{the birth of my 4th niece or nephew (I mean, I know he's a nephew, I just don't know how to say that I now have 4 total...is there a non-gender specific word for this??)}

{spending quality time with my other new nephew and his cute parents}

{spending time with my high school best friends (even though I didn't get to see one of them - next trip Clarissa!)}

{finding surprising gems in John's hometown-ish (including some faux Wayfarers for $2.99!)}

{baking with my mom and aunt - more on that later}

{spending loads of quality time with the original nephew - Tucker Brown - and seeing how grown up he is becoming and hanging out with the lone niece and listening to all of her words and enjoying her hugs and kisses}

{J&G shish-ka-bob}

{rum balls and apricot squares}

{watergate salad, smoked turkey, and confirming my feelings toward pea salad}

{NYE with my best framily (get it...friends+family...the whole family are our best friends)}

{sleeping in}

{watching Up; maybe one of my favorite movies ever}

{a trip to Starbucks with Nana}

{my favorite meal of the year - hog jowl, blackeyed peas, cabbage, corn bread and fruit salad - yum!}

{dirty santa with John's family where I came away with twenty bucks and where John gave this gem framed and labeled with "The Original Dirty Santa"}

{many many more}

Moments I wish I had...

{time with my mother's family; Denton, Trent, Papa and B-Bo at Nana's; Hunan's; more time off work to spend in our home; even more time with family; real snow}

Happy 2010!

back at it

2010-01-05T09:47:00.002-06:00

Hello 2010 - I think I like you!

I am hopeful that this year will be a great one and bring lots of blessings to me and the folks that I adore. For the past few weeks I've been trying to nail down some goals for the coming year, but haven't really perfected my list yet. So, I thought I would start with a few that are randomly generated.

{find the time}

{go sailing}

{declutter}

{high five the person sitting next to me}

{jump rope}

{donate my time}

{stop. collaborate. (and listen.)}

{bring a reusable bag to the grocery store}

{try harder}

I will continue to work on my own list I suppose, but I think these will work for now!

Hope 2010 has started wonderfully for you all.

babies - the movie

2009-12-14T10:52:00.002-06:00

This may be the only documentary I've ever been dying to see. The trailer is beautiful!

where are you Christmas?

2009-12-09T14:02:00.002-06:00

You may or may not know that The Grinch (Jim Carrey version) is my favorite Christmas movie. I'm not really sure why, other than it's complete quotable-ness.

It feels pretty appropriate this season, as I've been feeling sort of Grinch-ish. I've gotten super frustrated in moments as time speeds toward the big day.

I am completely over the non-stop Christmas music and was the day after Thanksgiving. I love a few carols here and there - but come on - throw something else in the mix!

I got stuck in Christmas parade traffic one day after work last week and wanted to scream! Especially after a man who was lined up to be in the parade started yelling obscenities at me (ok, well it was just one minor obsenity, but you get the picture) for going the wrong way (there was no right way marked!!!!).

And the pressure to have a perfect holiday season is so intense! I feel like I should be buying more gifts, or going to more holiday parties, or putting up more decorations, or eating more insanely bad for me foods.

It's just all so....superfluous (thank you Cindy Lou Who).

And here's the thing - I love Christmas. I love decorating, and baking, and holiday partying, and gift buying. Seriously - I love the rush I get when I find the perfect present for someone I love. Last night I finalized my wrapping plans (which no one else cares about). I've picked my paper, ribbon and tags and last night I wrapped my first present to see what it all looked like together. I was so excited you would have thought I solved the world's hunger problems!

But the excess is getting in the way.

Luckily I have a great husband who is a pretty good preacher and preached a sermon just for me on Sunday (don't tell him I said that). It was the second Sunday in Advent and the message was about preparing the way of the Lord. In addition to being a great sermon-giver, he is a pretty song-picker. One of the hymns we sang on Sunday was Take Time to Be Holy. Every line of the song felt like it was written solely for me in this season. These two are my favorites.

Take time to be holy, the world rushes on;
Spend much time in secret, with Jesus alone.

Take time to be holy, be calm in they soul,
Each thought and each motive beneath His control.

In the moments of frustration over the next couple of weeks, I hope this gets stuck in my head. (as much as I have loved being introduced to this holiday classic)

i am thankful for

2009-12-01T15:00:00.000-06:00

**So I'm a little late on this but I ran out of time before Thanksgiving...

{a wonderful husband who loves me and puts up with my craziness}

{beautiful kids in my life that give me the opportunity to love them while leaving all the hard stuff to their parents}

{dvr}

{the opportunity to spend time with family and friends}

{good friends who I can count on for good times and comforting words}

{google reader}

{the birth of Christ}

{a job that I love and the wonderful students I get to work with every day}

{a car with a CD player so I can escape the non-stop Christmas music}

{dark chocolate}

{champagne}

{blankets}

{memories}

the west coast

2009-11-18T18:22:00.017-06:00

Here it is - all you ever wanted to know about our vacation! It won't hurt my feelings if you just look at the pictures!

We started in Anaheim for my conference. I love NODA and loved seeing my NODA friends! I also learned a lot and have many thoughts and programs to follow up on in the next few months. While I was conferencing, John explored a little on his own. Many of his activities were centered around this guy:

We did find some time to go to Disneyland! But here's the sad part. I've been to Disneyworld one time and the Small World ride was broken. It's not that I'm a huge fan of the song, but it's a pretty landmark attraction, right? So the one thing I wanted to do at Disneyland was ride Small World....and it was closed!!! Here I am looking sad...

Monday was a legendary day! It started with conference stuff then John and I took a lunch break at Huntington Beach. We saw lots of seagulls and surfers.

My coworker Jenn has a friend from college who is a writer for How I Met Your Mother! So, after our conference responsibilities were over, we went to visit the set! It was so much fun and so interesting to be standing on the set that we watch on TV every week. Here are a few pictures:

Clockwise from top left: a childhood picture of Neil Patrick Harris that was taped to one of the monitors; John and me in the corner booth at MacLaren's; John and me on the front steps of Ted's apartment building; part of Ted's living room; John, Jenn and me in Ted's classroom

From the studio lot we took off driving around Hollywood. Were just kinda wondering and trying to figure out where to have dinner. Well, we were on Sunset Blvd. stopped at a red light. I looked to my right and noticed Bentley in the adjacent lane. I kinda looked at the car, then at the driver, then thought "I wonder who's he's driving". I look in the back seat....and it's John Travolta and Kelly Preston!!! The first words out of my mouth were, "S*@#!!!! That's John Travolta!" I was trying to be cool so I didn't take any pictures :(. We were in a left turn lane and had to turn, but as we were processing what had just happened, we realized that he was probably in town for the premier of his new movie, Old Dogs. So, we found our way to Hollywood Blvd., parked the car and went to hang out with the paparazzi and screaming fans! It was stupid fun and we saw a slew of famous folk.

Clockwise from top left: John Travolta's car we saw as we were leaving the premier; a red carpet pic (it's kinda blurry but there's John, right there in the middle); Tom Hanks in the Disney ice cream shop next door; the whole cast taking pictures in the Disney ice cream shop (including John, Tom, Kelly, Rita Wilson, Robin Williams, Dax Sheppard, Seth Green, Lori Loughlin, etc.)

That was lots of fun and we followed it up by driving up into the Hollywood Hills to the foot of the Hollywood sign. Great day!

The results of John trying to get a picture of John Travolta when he came approximately 3 feet from us. Fail. But he tried.

Tuesday the conference ended then I had a marathon meeting. We made a pit stop at the Disney store to pick up gifts for the kiddos then headed out of town. We did stop for dinner at In 'N Out and dessert at Pinkberry (one of my favorite meals of the trip...definitely the cheapest!).

Wednesday morning started our 2-day drive up the Pacific Coast Hwy. We saw some amazing scenery and really enjoyed just being together and not around many more people.

clockwise from top left: the view from our motel (yes, motel) Wednesday morning; elephant seals on the beach in San Simeon; John and me at sunset in San Simeon

the sunset in San Simeon

clockwise from top left: the view from our lodge on Thursday morning; John enjoying the view (one of the reasons I love him, it's not posed, he's just taking in the moment while waiting for me to get ready!); the view from breakfast

clockwise from top left: view from the road; another view from the road; Bixby Bridge; John finally seeing a giant Redwood (I realize it looks like he is relieving himself...he's not...I promise)

McWay Falls Overlook at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur

We got in to San Francisco early Thursday evening. I really liked the hotel we stayed at there, Carriage Inn. It was actually pretty cheap and super cute. We loved San Francisco! I didn't realize how absolutely hilly it is. Tons of fun!

the Carriage Inn

clockwise from top left: flag in the Castro; Golden Gate Bridge from a lookout; driving across the Golden Gate Bridge

clockwise from top left: The Castro Theatre (one of the upcoming shows was a Sound of Music Sing-a-long!!); Alcatraz from Fisherman's Wharf; Mission Dolores (oldest building in San Fran); The Painted Ladies from the opening credits of Full House (where we got a flat tire...)

flowers at the Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate park

I've been cyber drooling over these for at least a year but they are only in LA and San Francisco (this brand at least; macarons are French so there are plenty there!). Paulette's was on my must visit list. We went on Friday afternoon (after changing the flat tire) and I bought a box of 6. When their amazingness was confirmed we decided to go back Saturday morning and this is my box of 12 I got to bring back. The purple (violet cassis) were our favorites and the orange (passion fruit) were also pretty yummy.

the most deliciousness ever!

So that was it! We had a great time and I am so thankful we had the opportunity to travel. It really makes me want to start planning our next vacation! If you made it all the way to the end, leave a comment so I know my typing wasn't in vain!

p.s. the nephew has a name

you can call him Zeke

Hash

2009-11-18T14:43:00.003-06:00

My nephew is here! We don't have an official name yet, but I'm still holding out hope for Hash (last name Brown....get it?)

Here's his mug...

Isn't he beautiful?!? Too freakin' cute.

I'm working on a vacation post....but I have too much real work to do!

going away

2009-11-05T17:29:00.004-06:00

John and I leave tomorrow for a western adventure! Does that sound exciting and dramatic? I hope so!

Tomorrow night we will be in Atlanta (I know...not western) for In the Heights! I've been looking forward to this for a while! Here is one of my favorite songs.

And then Saturday we will fly to Anaheim to the happiest place on Earth! No, not Disneyland...NODA! This is the conference for the professional association I belong to - National Orientation Directors Association. I mean, it is actually at Disneyland, which I'm super excited about, but I'm also pretty excited about NODA. It's a great chance to see old friends, meet new friends, and get some great new ideas for orientation!

Another thing I'm super excited I will wait to talk about until I get back. But here's a hint:

image from buddytv.com

I realize that just looks like a bar - but it's not. I promise.

When the conference ends on Tuesday, John and I will drive up Hwy 1 to San Francisco. We'll fly back, exhausted, on Saturday. I'm super excited and can't wait to get away. Unfortunately, a lot of work needs to be done in the short time between now and then. Better get to it!

on my mind

2009-11-03T10:57:00.002-06:00

This video made the rounds on facebook back in September and it's been on my mind since. It blows my mind that this policy is still in place.

If I had more time, I would have more to say. Maybe another day...

beauty

2009-10-29T09:15:00.002-05:00

I love this series from Cade Martin. Makes me want to be a ballerina. In another life maybe.

I would put the second one on my wall.

See more of his photos here.

yes I am

2009-10-23T16:32:00.004-05:00

I feel like this book was written for me. I have been called neurotic on more than one occasion.

Those aren't my issues - but these are:

{I eat my m&m's by color - always. Green, orange and yellow first. Then red. Then blue and brown. But I save a few red to eat with my last blue's.}

{I don't like to eat outside because I have to wear sunglasses - but then I can't figure out whether to look through the lens or under them.}

{When I eat pop tarts I don't toast them - but instead microwave them for first 15 seconds and then 7. Every time.}

I'm sure there are more. Some of you may have been on the crazy end of them...

j.crew

2009-10-22T11:36:00.002-05:00

I'm back on the independently wealthy kick. This is what I would buy today...

sweater, tee, necklace, jeans, boots

jacket, tee, pants, flats, headband (I cheated, it's from Anthropologie)

Sweet Caroline

2009-10-19T09:49:00.001-05:00

on Glee this week!!

Watch the second sneak peek. I couldn't get the embed to work so the link will have to do. I'm loving this show!

Class of '99

2009-10-12T11:16:00.003-05:00

This weekend was my 10 year high school reunion. I was unsure of what to expect but ended up having a great time! For me, it was the perfect balance of spending quality time with my best friends who I miss a lot and catching up with people who I haven't seen in a long time (some in 10 years!). By the way - that's a Red Raider. Whatever that is.

I got to see all of my best friends from high school on Saturday except for one. We missed you Holli! Clarissa is missing from this picture too but I got to see her and her beautiful Zoey.

Gina, Ella & Karyn

And after the reunion I got to spend some QT with my cousins. We definitely had some laughs!

Katie, Juli & Ella

And John was there. He was my trophy husband (and probably knew as many people there as I did) (surprising because he didn't go to school with me).

It does not seem like it's been 10 years. In some ways my life is nowhere near what I expected it to be. But in others it is exactly like I pictured it. I've done a lot in 10 years, but honestly the thoughts leading up to this weekend made me realize how much further I could be pushing my life. I could be doing more; for myself and for others.

Now to turn thoughts into action...

knots

2009-10-09T10:29:00.003-05:00

I have a problem with accessories. I don't wear any! Coco Chanel's advice was always take one thing off before you leave the house. But honestly, I think I need to reverse that. I think I'll try to put one accessory on before I leave the house.

Can I start with these please?

found on oh joy!

Oprah

2009-10-07T15:17:00.002-05:00

The afternoon is creeping by because I'm ready to go home and watch Oprah. Which is weird for me. Not that I dislike Oprah. I just don't normally pine for her.

But today is special.

Stephanie was on Oprah today and I can't wait to watch! I have laughed and cried many times reading her blog. Mostly I think about her life and the way she makes me want to live better.

Baby Shower

2009-10-05T14:56:00.005-05:00

My mom and sister-in-law and I hosted a baby shower yesterday for my other sister-in-law. It was lots of fun and turned out great! They haven't decided on a name yet, but when they first told us they were pregnant I started calling him Hash (because his last name is Brown....get it....Hash Brown...). That has stuck pretty well so that might as well be his name now!

Yummy cupcakes!

Food & Decorations

The proud parents writing a note to Baby Hash!

Mobile

Nana and Aunt Birdie

My favorite kiddos - Tucker & Sarah

My cousins and the mom-to-be

On Repeat

2009-09-28T16:57:00.007-05:00

These are some of the songs I'm loving right now. Slightly eclectic. That's me.

And Rusted Root is worth a trip to You Tube to see the actual video.

Emmys

2009-09-23T15:23:00.004-05:00

I love award shows! My favorite part is of course the fashion followed closely by the musical numbers depending on who is hosting. Neil Patrick Harris, yes please!

I always love looking at the best and worst dressed lists the day after the big shows. So, I thought I would compile my own.

Best:

Kristen Chenoweth in Zuhair Murad
How cute is she?!

Lindsay Price
I haven't seen her a lot on a lot of lists (I guess because she's not actually on tv right now...) but when I saw this picture she immediately became my favorite!

Perrey Reeves in Naeem Kahn
This isn't the best picture but she was stunning on the red carpet.

Worst:

Padma Lakshmi in Badgley Mischka
I love Padma, but I do not love this dress. It looks a little cheap and the hair is tragic.

Sarah Silverman
This is actually a really good picture of her in this dress. I was trying to be nice. Because in other pictures....she looks rough. Probably the least flattering dress of the night.

Can't wait for the Golden Globes in January!

Some say I am a dreamer

2009-09-21T16:14:00.007-05:00

Any time I have an opportunity to make a wish, it is almost always the same thing. I wish to be independently wealthy. Some days, I am aware of how selfish that sounds. I mean, really? I could wish for anything and I wish for that? But to make myself feel better, I justify. Because, if I had all the money I would ever need, I could do so much with my time! I could really give back and do the things that matter. Plus, I could throw my money wherever I wanted. I could help whoever I wanted!

And also, I could have my dream home. I think a lot about what that would look like. And my mind changes every day. So, instead of deciding on a dream home, I've settled on a dream designer. I have decided that I am in love with Sixx Design. And, if I was independently wealthy, they would design all of my homes and they would all be fabulous, and all of my millions left over would be used to help other people.

So, here is a compilation of what my homes would look like:

I think my favorite is the in-ground trampoline. I might just go dig a whole right now. Or maybe I will get John to dig it.

I have their book too, which is full of before and afters and great stories about their design process and amazing finds. I think my favorite is the NYC townhouse that features a rooftop basketball court that makes even me want to shoot some hoops!

Unfortunately my sister-in-law always reminds me that I am destined to earn what I have; which I suppose isn't so bad. I guess I will just keep dreaming!

I originally found Sixx and these pics on: Design Mom, oh happy day! and black*eiffel.

Today

2009-09-11T08:42:00.005-05:00

"Today is the thirty-seventh anniversary of my mother's death. I have thought of her, longed for her, every day of those thirty-seven years, and my father has, I think, thought of her almost without stopping. If fervent memory could raise the dead, she would be our Eurydice, she would rise like Lady Lazarus from her stubborn death to solace us. But all of our laments could not add a single second to her life, not one additional beat of the heart, nor a breath"
- The Time Traveler's Wife, Audrey Niffenegger

The day I read this passage of the book I was struck by the honesty and reality. I did not write it down when I read it, but it has been on the edge of my mind. I remembered where it was - near the end of the book, right page, top half. So, last night I decided to find it. It didn't take long - exactly where it was supposed to be - and my last thoughts before sleep were of longing and reality.

This morning, my first moments of thought were of the same, as the images of eight years ago replayed in my mind and on TV.

Like all deaths, time passed is space between then and now. For some, space blurs the lines, fades the memories, and normal life takes precedent. Minds and hearts follow time to joys of now, heartaches of now, or just now.

But for those closest to the storm, every day includes a repeat of the moment. The loss, the absence, is part of who they are.

For the families of almost 3,000 people, and for the people in my life who have lost on other days

I remember.

Not just on this day, but all year long, year after year. Because for some, the pain of years ago is just as sharp and overwhelming today.

Family

2009-09-01T12:39:00.006-05:00

So this weekend was my little brother's wedding. Not only did I have a blast helping plan it, but it was absolutely wonderful to spend time with my family and friends.

The wedding was very much a reflection of their personalities. Here are a few pics.

We had a great time. Congrats Duke & Carry!

Around the Web

2009-08-25T12:40:00.003-05:00

I'm a serial surfer. And this is what I've been looking at recently.

This rug from Anthropologie. I love it so much I've looked at it every day for about 3 weeks.

These salad recipes. Wish I'd found them sooner this summer but there is still time!

Very much coveting this necklace.

And planning a road trip! Wish I had just jumped in the car with this family!

The Way I Walk

2009-08-04T15:41:00.002-05:00

So I've never been an athletic person. Or really even an active person. But I have to admit something. A weird phenomenon. These days, when I put on my tennis shoes (or sneakers, or whatever) I feel...different. I walk faster, more confidently.

I've just noticed it the past few days. My normal foot attire is flipflops. I walk slow, I drag my feet. But I put my tennis shoes on and I feel like I'm on the treadmill! Gliding past everyone I see!

I guess it's because I associate the tennis shoes with the gym. I automatically feel like I'm improving me. And I think I like it.

Dance

2009-07-27T15:14:00.002-05:00

So I'm a huge So You Think You Can Dance fan. Every week there is at least one dance that I watch over and over. And almost every week I cry.

This particular week I cried a lot. This is a must watch.

My family has been significantly affected by breast cancer. Special shout out to my friend Amanda who did the Breast Cancer 3-day this past weekend in Boston. She walked 60 miles in 3 days! It's on my list of things to do....we'll see!

Pick me up

2009-06-29T15:36:00.002-05:00

This is from my "makes me happy" bookmark folder. Sometimes I just need a break and I often head here.

Turning air into matter

2009-06-19T09:30:00.003-05:00

I found this post on A Practical Wedding. It is from Pitching My Tent by Anita Diamant. I will be heading to the bookstore to pick this up!

Why marry? Because marriage publicly affirms the possibility of moving toward another person without reservation. With that momentum, we are propelled toward the center of the heart, toward the center of the universe, and however far that gets us is farther than we'd otherwise go alone. Why marry? Because every wedding enacts a personal connection to the universal story of the human hope for wholeness. Because by stepping into the hyperbarically charged space on the altar (in front of the priest, under the canopy), the bride and groom join in a dance that goes all the way back to the beginning of memory. Getting married is an attempt at turning air into matter, transforming the ineffable workings of the heart into things that are "real": the invitation, the dress, the ring. The words that constitute a wedding are magical incantations of the highest order. In the presence of witnesses and voiced by a vested authority, two people are pronounced a single unit. Ta-da! And by the way, the legal arguments for extending the marriage franchise to queer couples simply acknowledge that gay men and lesbians are members of the human family, complete with photographers, caterers, and the challenge of juggling Thanksgiving between two families of origin. Every wedding is an invocation of peace and wholeness and connection and joy. Good wishes flow from family and friends, through history and community, with wings and prayers and everything that might turn out to be holy in the universe. So that's why Jim and I got married --- to receive that shower of blessings, hoping with all our hearts to make them last."

What beautiful words. And a beautiful understanding of this institution.

Books in Hardcover

2009-06-18T16:18:00.003-05:00

I went to the bookstore this weekend after a wonderful trip to Atlanta to see friends. As I was walking around looking for my next good read, I was reminded how much I love hardcover books.

There is something special about the heaviness. It feels substantial as I read. I love the sound as I drop it on the floor and roll over to sleep. And how the dust jacket flap serves as my bookmark.

Call me crazy.

I'm reading Little Bee by Chris Cleave. It is wonderful - hope to finish tonight!

And my weekend was joyous! I got to spend some quality time with some best friends. When we're together it feels like we've never been apart!

Buried

2009-05-08T17:05:00.002-05:00

Under papers at work that is!

So I'm trying to find some joy this afternoon...just enough to get the motivation to get back to work!

I've been chatting with some friends recently about trying harder to stay in contact and know things about each other's lives. These are friends that I love very deeply. I am so encouraged by friendships.

They literally feed my soul.

So I'm looking forward to reuniting with them. Both physically and emotionally and spiritually.

Not Me! Monday

2009-05-04T10:54:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

{This weekend I definitely didn't watch 7 episodes of The West Wing on Saturday instead of cleaning house or spending time outside...that would have been such a waste of time!}

{I absolutely did not give up after 13 minutes on the elliptical! Why would I even have bothered going to the gym?}

{And there is no way I watched my dog tear up an entire roll of toilet paper. It is not even possible that I was too lazy to get up and spoil her fun!}

And those are just a few of the things I did not do this past week!

2009-05-01T09:05:00.003-05:00

So this is about finding joy. But for the past week I haven't much felt like writing about joy. My cousin lost his 3 month old baby last week. It's startling to see how so much can change so quickly.

We were in Tennessee this weekend for the funeral. A mother's grief is indescribable.

Where does that leave me? Searching for those things that bring me joy...in the middle of great sadness. And if I look deeply enough, they are not that hard to see.

a gifted and caring husband

a family full of love and support

time. to be with the ones I love

Great Weekend!

2009-04-13T09:18:00.008-05:00

Friday

Lunch with HK and shopping at The Summit!
bought these:

in Ricepaper (plus eye pencil in Indigo and lip glass in Spring Bean...they are eternal)

And this flower for my hair!

Then on to the BJCC for Wicked! with my mom and friends that might as well be family.

I wish wish wish I could turn back time and see Kristen Chenoweth and Idina Mendel on Broadway!

Saturday

Breakfast at the Original Pancake House (heaven) then goodbyes

Stopped to pick up special beer for John and arrived home to find my Easter present...

a Wii Fit!!!

Sunday

He is risen indeed!

Very much missed my family Easter celebration!

But luckily had some substitute families to spend some time with. And, we were outside a lot so I got some sun!

Talk about finding my joy!

2009-04-09T17:41:00.001-05:00

I was recently presented with a question that has been on my mind since the moment I read it. It was a writing prompt from marta. Here was the question (well, list of questions really):

your days are your sonnets. but are they really? are you living your dream or your nightmare? write down your daily routine. now write down your dream daily routine. how many items match up? are you being truly present in your daily life? are you simply going through the motions? list ways to create a more meaningful existence.

That's a lot to think about. What is my dream daily routine? Am I present in my daily life? Do I have a meaningful existence?

When I started thinking about wanting to have children, I really think it was only because it was the next logical step. I routinely say to those that ask that I'm still too selfish to have children. I want my time to be my time.

The more I think about it, the longer time goes on, the more I truly desire to be a mother. I desire for my life to be about something more than me.

So, since I read those questions, I have been thinking about what I want my life to look like and ways that I can create that picture. The word that keeps coming to my mind is joy, loosely defined as a state of happiness. I can tell you, not everything I do brings me joy. Not everything fits into my dream daily routine. I am not always truly present in my daily life.

The purpose of this space is simple. This space will help me identify people, places, things and ideas that bring me joy.

{ella}