Some Silken mOMent

Last Night's Dinner

2012-01-06T15:54:00.000-08:00

For dinner last night I made these two dishes to accompany chicken.

At the Farmer's Market I bought some beets, turnips, carrots, & butternut squash for roasted veggies along with some olive oil and a little seasoning. I added the beet greens, a close relative to swiss chard which get dried up and crunchy when roasted. It's really tasty. George seems to think it tastes like candy with its natural sweetness.

This is red cabbage salad, a recipe from the book I just finished reading "A Homemade Life, stories and recipes from my kitchen table" by Molly Wizenberg. I'm not a huge cabbage fan but it's a fun and colorful way to add it to a meal since I always make green salads. We both liked it.

I really enjoyed Molly's personal stories/writing style, which for me, made the recipes more enticing to try. During the course of reading the book, I also made a chocolate cake, and banana bread w/chocolate from her recipes. This book is an enjoyable read and may inspire you to the kitchen to cook up something new as well.

She still writes her blog Orangette where the book was conceived and owns a restaurant 'Delancey'' in Seattle with her husband, which is the basis of her second book due in 2013.

Remembrance

2011-11-22T09:38:00.000-08:00

KROQ-FM played their music in 1983. I remember the INXS song "Don't Change" was getting airplay the same time as Tears for Fears song "Change".
I remember making my friend Annette go to Magic Mountain with me in 1983 to go see my new favorite band for the first time. Years following, I saw them in concert about eight more times in Los Angeles, Irvine, and San Francisco. And then in 1997 I remember getting a call from my friend Cathy from So. Cal. one evening while I was working at my 2nd job. She had just heard the tragic news that Michael Hutchence was found dead in a hotel room in Sydney and called to break the news to me. I remember walking home that evening in a daze.
The end of a life and an era of a band.

Today marks 14 years.

On a different note, I'm glad the talented band has continued on and have recently started touring with their newest member Ciaran Gribben who seems like a fine musician.

"Our dead are never dead to us, until we have forgotten them." ~ George Eliot

winter scarf

2011-11-06T21:36:00.000-08:00

I finished knitting my first scarf tonight. The other light gray scarf I started in my lesson is on hold because I needed more practice first. This is a bulky yarn and I just did the garter stitch. It's a little too wide so we folded it over. Next I'm going to make another scarf that is a little thinner for moi. Then maybe I'll be ready to go back to the slightly more advanced basket weave pattern of the light gray scarf.

2011-11-01T09:33:00.000-07:00

Both Oakland and San Francisco are occupied and though I'm not camping out or going to rally's I do like what Keri Smith shared today on her blog.
There are other ways we can participate in the revolution!

sometimes you just have to make your own

2011-09-27T16:31:00.001-07:00

I wonder if this happens to you.... sometimes I go looking for a greeting card and peruse as many as catch my eye and nothing seems to fit the person. After looking at practically everything, I end up walking out of the store a little frustrated and think I'll just make my own. Plus cards can be a little pricey. This happened to me today as I looked for a birthday card for my Aunt Edith. So I'll go home tonight and pull out my art stuff and with a little paint, pastels, ribbon and other ephemera I'll create my own special card for her.

Unrelated - I just found this picture of my husband and niece in Alaska from '06.

Speaking of whales, the latest machinema from Cecil Hirvi is showing at the Berkeley Film Festival this weekend.

Knit, Purl, Girasole

2011-09-25T15:32:00.000-07:00

At my 2nd knitting lesson, we finished this knit hat. It's pretty thick with the bulky yarn but it came out right. Then we started a scarf. It was awkward going from size 13 needles down to size 8! I revisited the purl stitch and the scarf patten goes back & forth with knit & purl stitches making a basket weave pattern.

This is the biggest sunflower that grew from seed. There are about seven flower buds on this stalk and two have blossomed so far. In the second pic, there is a bee in the flower.

Last but not least, I did get my first promotion last week at my karate test! As it turns out, I was more nervous the whole day then actually taking it. It was hard but all the exercise helped me calm down.

Show me sand the floor

2011-09-20T11:17:00.000-07:00

My husband sent me this video for a little 'test day' inspiration as I am testing for my first stripe tonight. I'm nervous yet as ready & prepared as I can be at this time. Self, just remember to breathe, listen, and kiay!

I love this scene and it's just what I needed to see again.

Lemon Queen , Karate, & Knit Stitch

2011-09-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

This is the Lemon Queen and she just started to blossom yesterday. Recently I planted an assortment of different sunflower varieties that have sprouted, but this is my very first Sunflower that grew!

The other day I learned that my first stripe test in Karate was moved up a few days. I got a little nervous/excited and when I was telling my friend Maria about it at work, I swallowed my gum. I haven't done that in years! It felt kind of strange.

I have to practice a little more so I have my basics, and especially proper form down. I know my Kata's pretty well. The forward roll is still a bit of a challenge but it will happen even if it's still a little slow and sloppy. In the style I am learning, the first green stripe is like the first green leaf on a newly sprouted tree.

Last night was my first knitting lesson with Annie. She was patient with me and taught me how to 'cast on' which we practiced at least 5 times so I got the hang of it. Then we did the 'knit stitch' (also known as garter stitch) for a few rows. I recently reacquainted myself with knit & purl stitches with my mom so it was easy to get going again. Then we practiced 'binding off' to end the piece a few times. I gave George my practice rectangle piece and he wore it on his head like a yarmulke. Maybe I can knit that too?

My first project is a beanie hat with big size 13 needles and bulky yarn as shown. It's amazing what a couple of hours can do. I had a lot of fun and finally feel like I know how to to cast on & pretty much bind off. I have to knit about 11.5 inches of rows and then she'll help me finish the hat next week. Then we are going to add the purl stitch and start a scarf (with thinner size 8 needles) and softer yarn. Now I have something to work on when I watch Sunday football games with the hubbs.

Pests and Patience

2011-09-12T15:19:00.000-07:00

We've put a lot of work into our backyard which brings us such joy. Every week we try to do some gardening whether maintenance or landscaping/planting. This weekend included some weeding, pruning, watering, & fertilizing. I also had to deal with the fact that the undersides of my snapdragon leaves have been invaded with tiny, sticky, dark circle pests. It's a good chance they are aphids. The plants got a nice shower of organic insecticide soap.

I see the pests or evidence of, and get all alarmed and kvetch to George. But really, between my Sunset Gardening book & the Internet, it only requires some investigation and research to figure out what to do. I just need to remember this first. I can see how gardening can be good for character-building, as it is a lot of trial & error and requires patience.

On the bright side, we have 3 sunflowers currently growing the backyard and I just planted a variety of sunflower seeds -more in the back, and some in the front yard. To my surprise a bunch of little sprouts appeared in both places. This is my first time growing sunflowers.

Next up - Knitting classes that I am looking forward to. This week is the knit stitch.

45

2011-09-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

Spent a really nice day w/my husband and we just celebrated with a delicious slice of chocolate gluten-free cake that he surprised me with, along with a glass of red wine. 45 is off to a good start. We had lunch at the Blue Oak Cafe at the Oakland Museum. The server number placard we took to our table was 9, and I just noticed '45' 4+5=9, I really should be at a casino.

Practice practice practice

2011-09-08T14:11:00.000-07:00

(Photo from old Google Image Search)

The original Star Trek and I are one day apart. Star Trek's 45th anniversary is today and my 45th birthday is tomorrow. George and I are going to watch the first Star Trek episode "The Man Trap" tonight to commemorate. I love the smart and calm Spock, the confident and no-nonsense Kirk, the skill dry-humored Bones, the lovely, talented, and strong Uhura, Chekov who I first saw play 'Gunnar' in Gidget, Scotty (I can hear his voice, "Cap'n I'm doing all I can...) & helmsman Sulu.

For my 45th, so far I got a short & sassy haircut. I am going to take a knitting class again and see if I can get the hang of it this time, and get back to learning some French & Italian language for when we can spend extended time abroad.

On a different note, last weekend we watched the Bruce Lee movie "Enter the Dragon" and the original "Karate Kid" and I loved them both . I'm so inspired by the art, philosophy, control, and effectiveness of martial arts. Captain Kirk is a good fighter too. I have really amazing women teachers (sensei) at my dojo. It's always challenging but also fun. I see how this and yoga, which I also enjoy, can be a lifelong practice. As I'm trying to get the 'feel' for my snap kick (ball of the foot extended) George continues to remind me, "Don't think ..........Feeeeel." Easier said than done.

I'm going to be sure my days always include pieces from these areas whether learning, practicing, or creating: Martial Arts, Yoga, Gardening & Growing veggies, Writing, Knitting, Foreign Language, Cooking new recipes, ... and any other creative interests that catch my attention. I already do most of them but I figure if I love all these things and consistently do them, I will be happy and it could lead to welcoming opportunities.

Gotta go, I want to get out of the city before another BART protest starts today.

maybe...

2011-08-11T12:02:00.000-07:00

(My Early Girl Tomato Plant)

Time flies and I'm still trying to figure out what sort of focus I want to give this blog.

Maybe I'll do do my daily writing prompts practice that I got from the ever-inspiring Cynthia.

Maybe I'll write posts and poems about our garden. This has been our first year growing veggies & flowers in our backyard and that has been fun & rewarding. This summer we've harvested zucchini and plums so far.

Maybe I'll share what I'm learning in Martial Arts and how being a beginner is humbling, fun and challenging. I plan to get back to learning languages again very soon too.

Maybe I'll share about good books I read and other interesting or inspiring goodies. Maybe I'll declare new dreams or plans or discoveries. I do want to make this a positive space because I have a tendency to find the negative way too easily. So I want to think and write about all the good things I usually overlook in a mundane sort of day. That is a definite maybe.

blog blasé

2011-05-24T15:20:00.001-07:00

(collaborative art tray collage)

I'm feeling tired of this blog and uninspired to continue for the time being. I'm going back to The Artist's Way book -12 week creative recovery program and see what I can uncover.

Thinking, Words, & Actions

2011-05-10T10:35:00.000-07:00

Psalm 141:3 Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips.

I have some very ingrained negative tendencies like voicing unnecessary criticism, noticing what's wrong instead of what's right. Of course wishing I didn't isn't making them go away. But they 'gots to go'. I will fight to catch my negative and often unnecessary words from escaping my mouth!

I will remind myself to think better in a few obvious ways.
First catch the negative thought and exchange it with a positive.
Focus on the GOOD already in your life.
Focus on what you want to create and follow it with positive actions.
Our minds are powerful and I don't want to waste my with anymore of my own nonsense. I think my new dojo practice could enhance this effort too. Whatever it takes to bring out the best me I can be.

My wise husband told me (loosely paraphrased) to just accept how you are and find ways to use it as a strength. In other words, working with who we actually are instead of always trying to change it. Working with instead of against whatever your 'thorn' is. I feel like I have to work against my negative attitudes (or maybe with in a way like using "find and replace" in a word doc. Hmm?)

Oh yeah, an example was how Larry David had success w/Seinfeld and playing his own neurotic yet fictional self in the show "Curb Your Enthusiasm". Working with his quirkiness in an entertaining way really works for him.

(from Wikipedia: David has said that his character in the show, a fictionalized version of himself, is what he would be like in real life if he lacked social awareness and sensitivity.[23] The character's numerous and frequent social faux pas and misunderstandings are the basis of much of the show's comedy and have led to the entry into the American pop culture lexicon of the expression "Larry David moment", meaning an inadvertently created socially awkward situation.)

Just sharing my far-less-glamorous side but that's enough babble. My thinking, words, and actions just need to synchronize in a positive light.

Rocking the Royals Live 1985

2011-04-19T16:16:00.000-07:00

Just found this video of my fave boys Down Under. My INXS radar is still sharp as I learned today that this album was released, and apparently INXS was one of Lady Diana's favorite bands too!

One of these days I will make a sojourn with my husband to Australia to visit the memorial grave site of Michael Hutchence. From the first time I heard the song "Don't Change" on the radio in 1983, and saw them play for the first time at Magic Mountain when Shabooh Shoobah came out, to the Elegantly Wasted Tour in 1997, I am forever obsessed with this band.

And then I found this new version of "Don't Change" with Andrew, Jon, and Kirk singing. I think it has an ethereal feel. There is another different official music video version as well. It's on the album "Original Sin" with a variety of vocal artists, released in Nov. 2010.

Social D short film premiere

2011-04-07T11:15:00.000-07:00

One more video because this one is my old pal Mr. Ness. :)

Speak Softly Love

2011-04-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

Today I walked out of the building to go to lunch and was greeting by the 'Godfather Theme Song' on a trumpet! The musician was standing on Market Street playing his horn. I was impressed and amused.

sidetracked by 80s music

2011-03-29T16:21:00.000-07:00

(Vintage sticker image from KROQ on Facebook)

I'm writing while listening to KROQ2 (The Roq of the 80's) on radio media player. It's funny how songs bring back specific memories. Here are three I injected into my writing:

It was 1982 at a GoGo’s concert at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles. We wore knit mini-dresses with metallic belts, tights, and metallic ballet flats.

It was 1979, 8th Grade. Wendy Shiroma went around taking a survey. “Do you like Led Zeppelin or the B52’s? For years I wondered which one was “Led”.

It was 1986 I went with my friend Toni Tackett to the LA Streetscene and we saw Gene Loves Jezebel play. There was a riot at that event.

quote

2011-03-29T10:10:00.000-07:00

"... A life that is truthful, where you don't bullshit. You're alive. You don't do work that you hate. You do things you believe in. That's authentic. It's just being yourself, that's all." ~Grace Paley (from interview in Oprah magazine March '07)

2011-03-18T12:09:00.001-07:00

I just read a good blog post by Travel Guru Rick Steves about why he writes:

Read it here:
http://www.ricksteves.com/blog/index.cfm?fuseaction=entry&entryID=594

more writing less surfing

2011-03-10T14:47:00.001-08:00

(the only picture I had left on this computer is of the cute Pickle Worley).

I heard the sounding of siren alerts on the Starship Enterprise in my head as my computer was viciously attacked by a virus yesterday! It was scary and incapacitated the rest of my day, and I wrote a short story.

Today my computer is all cleaned up and back in business. I did lose a few files and all of my Internet bookmarks. I had so many bookmark folders of websites and blogs galore. Too many. Many of which may now be lost and forgotten for good.

Surprisingly, my first thought was to embrace this clean slate and not rush back into the reading of everyone else's words. Whether on paper or on this blog, I am going to start writing more of my own words.

Bar Mitzvah fun

2011-03-03T14:49:00.000-08:00

We went to a Bar Mitzvah in LA last weekend for my second-cousin Alex. The Bar Mitzvah service was nice and it's always fun to visit with my extended family. I think this is the 4th one George has attended.

They had all sorts of entertainment (the Laker Girls performed) & activities at the party which was held at Sony Studios. They had green screen photo booths, music videos you make, personalized bracelets, temporary tattoos, etch-a-sketch portraits, sparkle fake eyelashes, etc.

James, Steph, Katie, Me, George

The decline of bookstores

2011-02-16T14:40:00.000-08:00

I heard about Border's filing for Chapter 11. Then I heard both stores in downtown SF would be closing and I'm bummed. I've admitted to having a book addiction but aside from that, it's the place I go during my lunch hour a couple of times a week. It's where I find inspiration and sometimes discover new authors as I browse bookshelves. It's where I sometimes pick up tips and ideas from magazines that I don't find in markets & drugstores. It's where I occasionally pick up a new fitness or yoga DVD.

What I will miss is the solace I find wandering through the rows of different subjects, picking up books and flipping through pages. It's just not the same as 'looking inside books' on Amazon, even though it is a good feature. I hope the few remaining chains and Independents can hang on. I think it would be unfortunate if books end up for purchase only online. Maybe I'm too old-school but I'm just not a big online shopper, yet. If they ever impose all books to the e-reader form, then it's a little too close to "Fahrenheit 451" for me. I'm not against e-readers, I just question the control the digital gods have over them like perhaps forcing you to watch more ads or something. Who knows.

I remember having quite a collection of vinyl records which then had to be converted to CD's. Then George bought me one of the first version IPOD's in 2002 I think. It's funny because that one looks so big now compared to the smaller, flatter versions. Although initially resistant to new technology as usual, I managed to sell and get rid of all but a few of my CD collections that are too close to my heart (you can probably guess...). Everything seems so much more digital now. I wonder if "Resistance is futile."

scrabble

2011-01-30T21:17:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we played scrabble & I had the seven letter word - EXTENDS (yes, 50 points!) and had my highest score ever, 320+5 of his points=325!

1.22.11

2011-01-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today would have been M.H.'s 51st birthday.
I chose this video because this concert was in Loreley Germany, and we actually passed the town of Loreley along the Rhine!

Currently Enjoying....

2011-01-18T15:04:00.000-08:00

I picked up this book used for a buck 50. I'm a long-time reader of Natalie Goldberg and am enjoying this memoir. She writes of growing up in the suburbs and teachers she remembers from high school and how she practices writing. I'm only 60 pages in.

From her website: "Long Quiet Highway is the autobiography of a thoughtful woman who grounded herself in Eastern thought and Western art-a precise history of Natalie Goldberg's adventures as a poet, teacher, and spiritual student--a book full of sentiment and anecdote." ~Allen Ginsberg

I just got these new athletic shoes (K-Swiss Tubes Run 100) and I love them. They feel super light weight and good support and comfortable. I've never felt that way about an athletic shoe before.

Because I read many books at one time.... I'm also reading this because I'm starting to incorporate a little meditation practice in my days. George put some carpet in the basement and we set up a little area where I can sit on my little cushion and breathe. This book by Sharon Salzberg provides excellent instruction, plus a CD with some meditations to listen to.

It's also time to start some serious gardening. Our backyard overwhelms me and I don't know where to start but I also want to start growing some veggies. Even if I use containers, the yard needs lots and lots of weeding, and some planning.

I'm lucky to have a cousin nearby who has been gardening, growing veggies, and composting for a long time. She has given me some good suggestions and tips to start and is an inspiration. I really want to start composting and am looking into affordable composters, or George might build one. Yet, I just need to dig in and start this weekend since the weather is sunny & milder. I read online but I'm old school and like to have a book to hold in my hands and to reference. So I think I might pick this one up: Grow Great Grub by Gayla Trail, and just start pulling weeds.

Happy New Year

2011-01-09T10:28:00.000-08:00

No excuses, just busy getting over a lingering cold and working on the the house, George started an excellent update on our kitchen. I've been reading good books, like "29 Gifts" by Cami Walker, her inspiring memoir and now I'm reading a creative book "Inner Excavations" by Liz Lamoreax which I really like, and "Creative is a Verb" by Patti Digh. I also have "Invisible Cities" by Italo Calvino sitting on the table.

This photo was on Christmas Day. We had a fun time on Piedmont Ave. where we went for a nice Chinese lunch and then a matinee. We saw "The King's Speech" which was very good.

Here I am just sitting on our Victorian chair in the parlor wearing my new boots.

In Memory of M.H.

2010-11-22T09:29:00.000-08:00

How can I not include my forever favorite song!

Comme ci, comme ça

2010-11-15T16:45:00.001-08:00

(Cafe Lulu in Dusseldorf Germany)

I don't feel like blogging much right now. My mind is in other places and on other things. I'll probably just pop in on a whim, while moodling about giving this blog a little overhaul. We'll see....

On a different note, Social Distortion is touring and has a new album coming out soon, "Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes" YAY!

A beautiful story

2010-11-04T10:27:00.001-07:00

This is a lovely story about a special woman, Alice, I just watched this on Christine's site.

Amsterdam

2010-10-25T06:37:00.000-07:00

Ryan Air flight to Dusseldorf Weeze airport then a shuttle

Train to Amsterdam.

Stayed at a nice B&B
Anne Frank House
Quinta Wine & Liquor shop with wine on tap in barrels!
Cold & Rainy
A rainbow

Red Light District
Bought new shoes
Van Gogh Museum

High speed train back to Paris - one night - then leave from Charles de gaulle.

Germany (Teil drei)

2010-10-25T06:34:00.000-07:00

Flew to Berlin

Rode the Metro to Alexander Platz
Found a 'laundry cafe'
Waffles with applesauce from a food stand
Alta National Art Museum
Brandenburg Gate
Terror Topography Open Air Exhibition
Meet up with Martina at the Zebra Festival at Babylon theater
Train to Tiergarten

Saw llamas at the zoo

Cold and Rainy
Lunch with Martina & Kirsten

Evening boat cruise
College boys drinking and singing on Metro
Police on Metro too
Navigated train detour in the late cold night
Jewish Museum

Auf Wiedersehen

Germany (Teil zwei)

2010-10-25T06:31:00.000-07:00

Train to charming Koblenz

Bought ticket for KD Boat

From friendly, helpful Martina

Found a nice hotel
Mango chicken spaghetti

Cafe Pfefferminzie

9am boat along the Rhine to Bacharach.
Lunch at Kleines Brauhaus

Reisling wine on the Rhine
Stayed at a family run hotel -nearly vacant.

Slow danced in hotel
Hiked along Vineyard hillside
George tossed padlock key

Germany (Teil eins)

2010-10-25T06:14:00.000-07:00

Train to Belfort - Mullhouse Ville
Basel (Bale) - bus to airport
EasyJet to Dusseldorf
Train to Dortmund Germany
Cab to our sweet friend Martina's home.

Late pasta dinner
Wine and good conversation
Simple joys are best

Train to 2 parks in Dortmund on a beautiful day - Romberg Park & Westfallen Park.

Train to Dusseldorf

Walk along the Rhine
Great lunch at Cafe LULU
Best spinach salad

Train to Cologne

Cologne Cathedral
Schnitzel, Fish n'chips, Kolsch beer
Placed our lock on bridge

(I know, food food food)

France

2010-10-25T05:02:00.000-07:00

Our trip started in Paris. We stayed at a very nice B&B which I found through a great site -

Pain au chocolat
Vin Rouge
Evening Seine cruise
Stroll along the Left Bank

Train to Dijon
George rented a Eurocar
Drove to Chaumont and eventually to Pont-la-Ville.

We stayed a couple of days with our friends who are retired teachers and active travelers. They have an amazing old French Country home where enjoyed great food, drinks, and conversation around their table. We feel lucky to know such kind, generous and inspiring people.

Day trip to Domremy to visit the birthplace of Joan of Arc, a special request from George.
I found it to be fascinating and a little hard to fathom when you try to imagine a young girl hearing her 'unmistakable calling' here to lead the French Army to several expected victories.

Train to Vernon and transferred to a bus to Giverny where we visited Monet's Garden (jardin).
Dahlias
Sunflowers

Monet's house (maison)
The entry way has a lot of Japanese art prints on the walls (a strong influence), and more are scattered through the house.
The parlor (drawing room/studio) with big windows, and the furniture in place as he left it.
A tiled, blue kitchen with hanging copper pots and a big golden yellow dining room.
Upstairs his bedroom window has a vast view of the garden.

Maira Kalman

2010-09-24T16:39:00.000-07:00

I finally went see the Maira Kalman Exhibit at the CJM today for my lunch break.

Various Illuminations (of a Crazy World)

(images from google image search)

Maira Kalman has done many covers and pages for the New Yorker, as well as illustrated blogs, children's and adult books, etc. I'd like to get this book that Cynthia mentioned recently.

Her framed art on display was mostly gauche on paper. She also had some embroidery pieces, and collections of objects. Apparently she is fascinated with ordinary things like ladders, ironing boards (& ironing), suitcases, and collects items such as buttons, rubber bands, onion rings...

I think she's an interesting woman & artist. See her Ted Talk here:

http://www.ted.com/talks/maira_kalman_the_illustrated_woman.html

Good Things

2010-09-14T15:37:00.000-07:00

Le Petit Jardin is the cutest part of the yard now. Finally, our first little Bougainvillea, yay.

Looks like October will include a nice chuck of traveling as plans are in the works! This is good because we both could use a nice long trip out of the country.

Ethiopian food is delicious @ Cafe Eritrea D'Afrique.

I now love Early Girl and Heirloom tomatoes.

My first birthday card addressed as 'wife' last week, and birthday cheesecake!

Chris Guillebeau ~The Art of Non-Conformity

Book

2010-08-25T09:27:00.000-07:00

(Photo from Author's site)

I just finished Laura Fraser's book, "All Over the Map" last night. She's a local writer here in S.F. I enjoyed these stories about her travel experiences, coming to terms with middle age and circumstances, etc. I found San Miguel de Allende a very interesting part of the story as well since I'm not very familiar and have never been there. I love books and am smitten for good travel related memoirs.

smooth

2010-08-19T20:04:00.000-07:00

On Monday I got my first keratin hair smoothing treatment/Brazilian blowout. Wasn't sure exactly what to expect since I was fortunate enough to be a model as well. It's not a relaxer it's a smoothing treatment and eliminates a lot of FRIZZ! It's supposed to last 3-5 months then it just wear off. It went well and I'm very pleased with the results. It's super straight at first because they flat iron in small sections and the heat seals the keratin treatment in.

A few pointers I picked up for next time are:

1. If you are in need of a color, it's better to do that about 4 days prior. Otherwise you need to wait three weeks after the service to get a color, like me.

2. You cannot get it wet at all for the couple of days while it 'cures'. So don't plan to get sweaty either, I had to forgo workouts for a couple days. They recommend 3 days, I went 2 1/2 which was fine. Also, you cannot put it back in a clip, hairband or anything, you're not even supposed to tuck behind your ear. (It was recommended to cover it with a silk scarf when necessary.) That was a little tough for me since it bothers me a lot when my hair hangs in my face, but oh well.

3. I got their recommended shampoo & conditioner (which is supposed to help prolong the treatment) because you are not supposed to use any products w/sodium. (Salt = bad for hair) . This picture was last night, after I had it washed and a quick blow dry. So far, I think it's pretty great. If it lasts through December, then I will definitely budget for this service.

Shabooh Chabot

2010-08-11T17:05:00.000-07:00

We visited Chabot Space & Science Center w/my family. It's pretty there in the Oakland hills.

We checked out the exhibits and saw two interesting Planetarium shows in the dome theater. One story was "Tales of the Maya Skies" about Maya culture and tales. The second was "Mysteries of Egypt" which went into the discovery and stories of King Tut and his sacred tomb.

How To Be Alone

2010-08-10T14:07:00.000-07:00

Hello! I've seen this video posted on a few blogs and actually, it is Cin(E)Poetry. Well done & fun. Enjoy!

Tanya Davis Website - http://www.tanyadavis.ca/

Amore

2010-07-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

Blog Break

2010-07-13T10:37:00.001-07:00

I'm taking a blog break. I'm getting ready for family visiting. Oh, and we're getting married in a couple days.

Toodles!

OC to Oak

2010-06-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

Back from the O.C. and I had such a nice visit. My niece & nephew had graduation/promotions. It was so fun to see them and visit my family. I also managed to have a meal & visit w/a few high school girlfriends I haven't seen in a few years. (Thanks for making that happen ladies!!) George did some significant kitchen improvements while I was away. Now it's back to work on the house (well backyard for me). I have to finish pruning the plum trees. He was able to get the loppers from the Tool Library. My favorite garden tool, they make pruning a breeze!

flashback

2010-06-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

As mentioned earlier, I met Justine once when I worked in radio. I'm sharing this even though I think it's not a flattering photo of me.

Wake Up and Get Real

2010-06-22T17:39:00.000-07:00

I just learned of this program on youtube w/Justine Bateman, via Connie's blog.
Love it. I met her once. There are a bunch of episodes but I just watched this one that Connie embedded where Justine talks about her 'older face'. I lover her no nonsense approach!

Ithaca

2010-06-16T15:02:00.001-07:00

This morning on the train while reading my book 'The Invisible Embrace of Beauty', he referred to the poem 'Ithaca'. I wasn't familiar with it and looked it up. Enjoy below. Any thoughts?

Ithaca by Constantine P Cavafy

When you set out for Ithaka
ask that your way be long,
full of adventure, full of instruction.
The Laistrygonians and the Cyclops,
angry Poseidon - do not fear them:
such as these you will never find
as long as your thought is lofty, as long as a rare
emotion touch your spirit and your body.
The Laistrygonians and the Cyclops,
angry Poseidon - you will not meet them
unless you carry them in your soul,
unless your soul raise them up before you.

Ask that your way be long.
At many a Summer dawn to enter
with what gratitude, what joy -
ports seen for the first time;
to stop at Phoenician trading centres,
and to buy good merchandise,
mother of pearl and coral, amber and ebony,
and sensuous perfumes of every kind,
sensuous perfumes as lavishly as you can;
to visit many Egyptian cities,
to gather stores of knowledge from the learned.

Have Ithaka always in your mind.
Your arrival there is what you are destined for.
But don't in the least hurry the journey.
Better it last for years,
so that when you reach the island you are old,
rich with all you have gained on the way,
not expecting Ithaka to give you wealth.
Ithaka gave you a splendid journey.
Without her you would not have set out.
She hasn't anything else to give you.

And if you find her poor, Ithaka hasn't deceived you.
So wise you have become, of such experience,
that already you'll have understood what these Ithakas mean.

p.s. I also like today's Quote of the Day by Kurt Cobain
"Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are."

To Beautify the Gaze

2010-06-15T17:12:00.000-07:00

Last night George called me to the window to see the slice of crescent moon out front. He has a 'graced' eye. I saw the pretty crescent moon and then I glanced to the right to look down the street and back. My eye could use a little grace.

This morning I read this passage in "The Invisible Embrace of Beauty" by John O'Donohue (pages 18-19). John O'Donohue explains it well:

The human gaze is not the closed, fixed view of a camera but is creative and constructive. Both the gaze that sees and the object that is seen construct themselves simultaneously in the one act of vision. SO much depends then on how we see things. More often than not the style of gaze determines what we see. There are many things near us that we never notice simply because of the way we see. The way we look at things has a huge influence on what becomes visible for us. If a house has been closed up for a long time, a film of dust settles on the windows. Decayed residue gradually manages to seal out the light. When we go into such a place, we smell the dankness of sour and fetid air. The same thing can happen in the rooms of the mind. If one has become stuck in a certain narrow or predictable way of seeing, the outside light cannot bring colour into one's life. Eventually the windows of the mind become blinded by an imperceptible film of dead thought and old feeling so that the air within becomes stale, life lessens and the outside world loses its invitation and challenge. When no fresh light can come into the mind, the colour and beauty fade from life. There is an uncanny symmetry between the inner and the outer world. Each person is the sole inhabitant of their own inner world; no-one else can get in there to configure how things are seen. Each of us is responsible for how we see, and how we see determines what we see. Seeing is not merely a physical act: the heart of vision is shaped by the state of the soul. When the soul is alive to beauty, we begin to see life in a fresh and vital way. The old habits of seeing are broken. The coating of dead dust falls from the windows. Freed from their dead forms the elements of one's life reveal new urgency and possibility.

We have often heard that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This is usually taken to mean that the sense of beauty is utterly subjective; there is no accounting for taste because each person's taste is different. The statement of another, more subtle meaning: if our style of looking becomes beautiful, then beauty will become visible and shine forth for us. We will be surprised to discover beauty in unexpected places where the ungraceful eye would never linger. The graced eye can glimpse beauty anywhere, for beauty does not reserve itself for special elite moments or instances; it does not wait for perfection but is present already secretly in everything. When we beautify our gaze, the grace of hidden beauty becomes our joy and our sanctuary.

Italian Inspirations

2010-06-14T15:11:00.000-07:00

(Photos from google image search)

This weekend I finished the book, That Summer in Sicily" by Marlena de Blasi.

Her writing is beautiful. When I read her stories, I wish I only could write that well. Her descriptions are so rich and vivid. She knows how to tell a good story. I've read four of her non-fiction books and recommend them all. Just recently her first novel was released in hardcover, "Amandine". I'll probably wait awhile to read that as I have a few too many lined up now.

So, after reading Marlena de Blasi's beautiful writing set in Italy, last night we happened to watch one of my favorite Italian movies, "Bread and Tulips". (I need to add that I was tired and not in the mood to read subtitles but George insisted we watch it... and he's usually right)

The main character is Rosalba Barletta (Licia Maglietta).

She's gorgeous and I love her style. Her pretty floral dresses, a cute green sweater, she schelps a big bag. In addition to the character Rosalba, and the charm of Venezia, the dialogue inspires me. I love the poetic words from another main character, Fernando Girasoli (Bruno Ganz). What a delight.

Synopsis from Amazon: Italy's magical fantasy of midlife crisis and rebirth in Venice, the city of lovers, swept the Italian film awards and charmed all of Europe. Director Silvio Soldini turns the tourist mecca of piazzas, canals, and stone bridges into a quaint little village out of time and fills the film with the charm of the city and the gentle quirks of his delightful cast. Licia Maglietta is winning as Rosalba, the frustrated and ignored middle-aged mom who impulsively takes a vacation from her family. She hitchhikes to Venice and falls for lonely, suicidal Icelandic waiter-poet Bruno Ganz (whose soulful, sad eyes recall his fallen angel from Wings of Desire), blossoming as she rediscovers her smile and joy for life. Sweetly sexy and beautifully shot, this story of second chances may not be original or surprising (think Shirley Valentine), but it's no less lovely or enchanting for it. --Sean Axmaker

Here is a Trailer:

Ciao!

"Between a Heart and a Rock Place"

2010-06-14T10:18:00.000-07:00

I remember hearing Pat Benatar's music when her band first started in 1979 (when I was in 8th grade).

Back then, my sister, neighbor Dina, and I choreographed dance moves to the popular songs of the day. Like The Car's, The Pretenders "Brass in Pocket", Foreigner, Pat Benatar's "Hit me with your best shot" was one of them. I remember Dina's father, did not approve of those lyrics and we got in trouble for that one.

Pat Benatar has penned her memoir.

She has an interview here on the Today Show:

http://music.msn.com/video/music/?g=43c09c68-76e2-4a76-ad90-4e45d3a29e93

I only saw Pat Benatar in concert once. It was at the Fillmore in San Francisco some years ago. She rocks.

Ray Bradbury

2010-06-10T17:06:00.000-07:00

I just discovered this video of Ray Bradbury. He has been writing every day for the past 75 years! More inspiration for writers & readers.

Mark Twain

2010-06-10T13:54:00.000-07:00

"When I was younger, I could remember anything, whether it had happened or not; but my faculties are decaying now and soon I shall be so I cannot remember any but the things that never happened."- Mark Twain's Autobiography

After visiting the Mark Twain Museum in Virginia City, today I learned that his autobiography is being released this year - a century after his death.

Photo collage of our visit to the Mark Twain Museum

See link below:
http://news.yahoo.com/video/whoknew-19124225/thursday-s-video-20233529

Old Virginny

2010-06-09T11:17:00.001-07:00

Photo Collages from our Nevada trip

(Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Virginia City)

(Oops I used that drink photo twice - it was a hot 'apple pie' drink at the Silver Queen. It really was that good.)

2010-06-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

Here's a video of the song "Shine Like it Does" by my beloved INXS in their early days. The song I will now always associate with our official engagement at the Old Washoe Club in Virginia City:

To Do List

2010-06-07T15:21:00.001-07:00

Just thinking out loud. I do that sometimes.

Set a date
Marriage License
Plans & arrangements
Booking flights for a) my parents 50th Anniversary Party in So Cal; and b) Europe in the Fall baby!
What's for dinner?
Alteration & Dress shoes
Wedding bands
Finishing Cynthia's Happy Writing Habit course this week
Can I squeeze in another e-course this month?
Finding a mini scone baking pan
Dad & Grad gifts
Helping my sister with said Anniversary Party
Need to donate blood (before considering a new tat)
Finding an affordable exercise bike
Write a poem
Did I mention dinner already?

picnik art

2010-06-04T17:23:00.000-07:00

a.p. 6410

Honest Moodling

2010-06-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking how my views have changed over the years on the subject of weddings. The weddings I've attended have been big, beautiful events. So, I figured I'd have a big wedding one day, because that's what I knew.

As the years passed, I still hoped to marry but started losing interest in a big wedding of my own(especially after the age of forty). Plus event planning is not my strength (that is my cousin's gift). Plus the fact that I don't like to be the center-of-attention in any crowd (I didn't get my dad's outgoing/entertainer gene). In my mid-30's it became more important to me to let go of finding-my-husband and wedding expectations that no longer held true. I decided I just wanted to meet a compatible partner/companion. That is when I met him.

I love how we've broadened each other's worlds by exposure to all sorts of things from DNA research, Star Trek, Bar/Bat Mitzvah's, a French cabaret in Paris complete with a glass of sherry, Peruvian lilies and the sounds of hummingbirds, kayaking, etc. (I could go on...) How we are both drawn to eclectic and artful styles. Such as the ways we are trying to renovate/restore & decorate our house - and our love of European influences.

Then there are George's crazy schemes that challenge my open-mindedness; and my initial resistance that he has to deal with. I'll call that our 'psychological dance'.

So having become officially engaged to my beau of 8+ years, during the Great Recession, we've agreed on an intimate civil ceremony with immediate family only. Small, sincere, and sweet. And to be frank, a nice long trip (& honeymoon) to Europe sounds VERY appealing.

He introduced me to the composition "Clair de Lune" a few years ago and it is still the most enchanting music I've ever heard. You can listen to it here in Cecil Hirvi's machinima "Chapter 3"

Shine Like It Does

2010-05-26T11:27:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, they took a road trip to Virginia City, NV 'Old Virginny'. This story in Storey County starts here at the Old Washoe Club.

He pushed the saloon doors open with both hands. The place was empty. She said to him, "Do you hear that?" "Yes, INXS." he replied. The song, Shine Like it Does was playing in the background, she smiles, instantly happy. The owner walked out to the bar to greet them.

"I'll have a shot of whisky." She didn't order anything. He threw it back and set the shot glass on the counter.

The Old Washoe Club aka The Millionaires Club was under renovation by the owner. The owner Scott, acquired the club back from a previous tenant.

(interesting story here - http://www.ghost-trackers.org/washoeclub.htm)

He said to her, "Let's go sit over there." She sat on his lap and had Scott take a picture.

He looks at her holding a ring (which she did not see coming). "Will you marry me?" he asks. Oh my - she is shocked, a bundle of smiles, laughs, and near tears."Yes. Of course!"

He snaps one last photo with Scott at the Old Washoe Club.

In an air of giddiness and joy, they went out for a dinner of pizza and wine. The pizza was served on a rack (along with paper plates) which reminded them of Grimaldi's in Brooklyn.
The beginning of a new chapter.

p.s. today's writing style was influenced by David Bengston's prose and Mark Twain.

Back from the Ponderosa

2010-05-25T20:06:00.000-07:00

Back from our road trip to Lake Tahoe & Virginia City. Pictures & stories to follow.

Mystify

2010-05-21T14:52:00.000-07:00

Time for an INXS video. (I know, I am forever obsessed) I still only listen to original INXS because I just can't endure their singer JD. Of course I still love the rest of the original band.

This video is from 1991 (just look at his crazy pants). My blog was named after a line in this song (you probably know that)

Writers

2010-05-20T10:15:00.000-07:00

(Plath photo from Google Image Search)

I'm a little behind this week in my writing class. Tuesday's lesson was about drawing inspiration & ideas from our favorite writers. I love, love, love books. It's one of my favorite habits. (Just ask my co-workers where I go to lunch at least once a week... yep, Borders) I have many favorite writers. I am drawn to non-fiction and poetry including; memoir, travel narrative, and essays with an occasional novel or short story collection to mix it up.

I also enjoy many blogs of writer's that may or may not be published, yet.

I came up with a few author's whether or not I've read or liked everything by them. Then I stopped to ask, who can I call to mind that would help me plod through writing challenges which I think it the actual idea here. This is who I came up with so far:

Anne Lamott

May Sarton

Mitch Albom

Marlena deBlasi
Frances Mayes

and then I turn to the Poets:

Sylvia Plath. Even her published journals show brilliant writing. I still remember a blog post by Samara O'Shea about that here http://www.letterlover.net/2008/10/20/as-always-sylvia-plath/.

For example this one sentence Plath wrote, "I am sitting at my desk looking out at a bright antiseptic January day with an icy wind whipping the sky into a white-and-blue froth." Even if I can't quite grasp the tortured-artist mindset (though I am starting to see how it can be agonizing at times!) I am in awe of her word choices.

Mary Oliver

Naomi Shihab Nye

Pablo Neruda

Dr. Maya Angelou

David Whyte

I'll close with this:

Characters

2010-05-19T11:54:00.001-07:00

(photos from Google Image search)

George and I had a conversation about characters from earlier TV shows that inspired us. 'Characters with character' that portrayed confidence, integrity, and courage. Ben Cartwright and Captain Kirk easily came to mind.

As I've shared before, one of my favorite old shows is Gidget with Sally Field. What I always love about her character (even though she plays a teenager) is, she was - stylish, fun, smart, witty, outgoing, rose to the occasion & took risks, a dreamer, a thinker, a doer, and sometimes a little clumsy. (I too, grew up at the beach and loved sandwiches, and teenage drama.)

I also like Mary Tyler Moore and Rhoda but can't think of any characters in the past 20 + years that stuck with me. Even though the current sitcom/drama shows I watch are 30 Rock, Modern Family, Parks and Rec, and Brothers and Sisters, I tend to regress to find the hero's. These shows are very entertaining and funny, but I can't name a recent character on TV who has that sort of aspect about them to universally inspire people. This could be since I don't watch a lot of TV and do not have cable. Maybe I just don't know of the inspiring characters out there today.

One last thought is that there were other shows I liked such as Felicity and Gilmore Girls, but I didn't want to be like them. My point is more about a TV character that inspires you to want to be or do something better in general. Do you have any favorite TV characters that had a positive influence? Just wondering.

Time to get back to my writing class to write about my favorite writers that have that magical and positive influence. Tootles.

Adventure Ahead

2010-05-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

(Photo from Google Image search)

A little adventure to Lake Tahoe & Virginia City is in the works. First a little fun and games, and an anticipated return to LewMarNels for a nice filet mignon (mmmm, can't wait).

Sadly the Ponderosa Ranch closed indefinitely in 2004. Since watching some Bonanza shows, I've come to admire the integrity of Ben Cartwright. His character is strong, brave, loyal, just, and kind. The man shows no fear.

Then we're off to Virginia City , a historic mining town which offers preserved Victorian-era inspiration. And how about this little nugget, "Discover the place where Mark Twain took his penname and began his writing career."

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. ~ Mark Twain

Why wait?

2010-05-13T15:08:00.000-07:00

Paris 2001, our first Int'l. trip together.

Yesterday I was thinking: We really need a vacation. What am I waiting for? Why don't we take a trip this year? We don't need that much $$. We have a lovely friend to visit in Germany. I have vacation time to use. We haven't been to Europe since 2004. What am I waiting for?

It usually comes down to time and money really but more importantly, I just don't want to postpone travel any longer. So we'll figure out ways to make it happen.

All I had to do was mention this to George, and he's ready to pack his bag! Seriously, he's great at getting the ball rolling. He reached out to his European colleagues and contacts.

Where I'd like to visit this Fall, time permitting and subject to change:

Germany - Dortmund, Berlin - the Zebra Poetry Film Festival (October)
Amsterdam - must see the Anne Frank House & Van Gogh museum
France/Giverny - must visit Monet's Garden this time (open Apr. 1 - Nov. 1)
If we can stop in Italy....there's too many places but I can narrow it down to Cinque Terre and beloved Venezia.
possibly Switzerland

I also need to find out what is the more affordable way between countries these days....a rail pass or flights? There are only a few specific places I really want to visit, otherwise the plans will be pretty loose. For someone who likes plans and specifics, it's a little ironic that my fondest memories are the travel mishaps and unexpected emotions; which lead way to unplanned adventures and the best stories. C'est la vie.

Exercising Exercise Routines

2010-05-12T14:46:00.000-07:00

I’m a big fan of exercise. It often improves my mood, and provides many health benefits like managing weight, keeping high blood pressure & cholesterol in check, etc. Of course there are also the physical benefits of strength, endurance, and muscle tone to reap.

Frankly, it's just something I cannot go without for very long. I've belonged to gyms on-and-off for the past 26 years but started using our designated exercise room at home since we moved six months ago. Starting with some free weights, a jump rope, and a mat, I soon added a few workout DVDs. I have experienced good results with Jillian Michael’s circuit training workout. I also like Elena Brower's yoga practice that is restorative and beneficial.

Recently George and I did a trial/guest pass at a nearby gym. It was a nice, clean facility with lots of space, cardio machines, nautilus equipment, weights, group exercise classes, etc. The common amenities.
Turns out, I feel good about my current strength and endurance and realized that I don’t need, or really want for that matter, to join a gym. It's time to do something different. It's good to mix up your fitness and try something new; challenge different muscles, meet new people.

A better addition to my home routine would be a weekly group exercise class or two (depending on cost and location). I'm thinking a yoga studio and possibly a boot camp class would provide the energy, challenge, and the social aspect that is currently missing. For the fitness enthusiasts out there, how is your routine working for you?

I recently learned of these new“Method’s” from a co-worker which could also be worth exploring:

The Bar Method integrates the fat burning format of interval training, the muscle shaping technique of isometrics, the elongating principles of dance conditioning, and the science of physical therapy to create a revolutionary new workout that quickly and safely reshapes your entire body.

The Dailey Method – a unique combination of ballet barre work, core conditioning, stretching, and orthopedic exercises.

DVD workouts I like:

Jillian Michael’s No More Trouble Zones

Elena Brower AM and PM yoga for beginners

writing and books (my fave subjects)

2010-05-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

This week began a writing course I'm taking w/Cynthia Morris and a nice group of interesting & talented writers. I don't write a lot on this blog usually, but I am very much committed to my writing, because I love it.

Thought I'd share a few good books I'm reading (all non-fiction):
The Not So Big Life: Making Room for What Really Matters by Sarah Susanka

Tranquilista: Mastering the Art of Enlightened Work and Mindful Play by Kimberly Wilson

Writing Away: A Creative Guide to Awakening the Journal-Writing Traveler by Lavinia Spalding

Wednesday Writers: 10 Years of Writing Women's Lives by Terri Hinte (Author), Elizabeth Fishel (Editor), California Women Writers' Workshop of Oakland (Editor)

Finding this anthology of the Wednesday Writers Workshop, which happens to be a dozen women who meet weekly to write together in Oakland (of all places) made me wonder.... why do I have an impossible time finding such a writers group that doesn't cost money? Every group I join is facilitated and is usually from 8-10 weeks and costs a few hundred bucks. I really want to find a handful of writers I could meet with at least twice a month to write and share and encourage writing. Does anyone have a suggestion? While I'm at it, I'd still like to find a book club too.

There are always more books --- this is one I just learned of coming out in June:

All Over the Map by Laura Fraser

I really love stories of women who take risks, usually including travel, or make interesting & creative changes in their lives. I also appreciate the pain and challenging circumstances that usually provoke these adventures because they tend to heal and strengthen the author, while inspiring the rest of us.

Good Things

2010-04-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

The sun is back and it's supposed to warm up this weekend. I was able to get an appointment w/my hair colorist Jen and things are good.

Our bathroom renovation is coming along so well especially w/George's hard work. The last big job is tiling the shower. Here's a peek:
I love that Mandy is starting her own self-imposed program to pursue writing. I've signed up for Cynthia's class Make Writing a Happy Habit to get a writing groove of my own. Cynthia also started making weekly videos "Juju Infusion". I love this! She is so authentic, fun & inspiring. See for yourself:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBD0tXrusPg

9 years ago today

2010-04-28T10:11:00.000-07:00

I quit for good.

2010-04-27T12:15:00.000-07:00

This morning on BART I noticed a woman knitting, the guy next to her reading a book, a woman sitting on the floor writing in a journal. It was nice to see people doing these things 'unplugged'.

Alicia

2010-04-23T10:18:00.001-07:00

On another note, I was sad to learn that Alicia Parlette died. I followed her story in the Chronicle a few years ago.

Alicia Parlette, who turned her incurable cancer diagnosis at age 23 into a Chronicle series about her experience, died just before noon Thursday at UCSF Medical Center.

She was 28.

Ms. Parlette's 17-part series, "Alicia's Story," drew tens of thousands of followers, who read about her trips to the doctor's office, the therapist's couch, her relationships with family and friends, and her faith in God.
Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/04/23/BAMP1D11M1.DTL#ixzz0lwe5Vz9e

Food

2010-04-23T09:40:00.000-07:00

Excuse me for this little rant... it's my health consciousness raising its voice the day after Earth Day....

Today my work has provided breakfast instead of the usual happy hour they do on Friday afternoon (neither of which I participate in, I know party pooper, whatever). Today they brought in a bunch of crap from McDonald's! It shouldn't bother me because I eat breakfast at home (usually cold cereal or oatmeal, with fruit), but I've been feeling more strongly about healthier food choices. It's all about choices isn't it?

Maybe Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution is seeping in my head too. I've watched the show a few times and I think his passion and frustration come through strong.

SATC 2

2010-04-11T09:11:00.001-07:00

One more movie on my 'must see' list:

Eat Pray Love the movie

2010-03-22T16:02:00.000-07:00

I just found out about this trailer.

Every Day in Tuscany

2010-03-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

I just found out about Frances Mayes new book! (you might say I découvert this new book today) I will add it to my endless reading list.

In this sequel to her New York Times bestsellers Under the Tuscan Sun and Bella Tuscany, the celebrated “bard of Tuscany” (New York Times) lyrically chronicles her continuing, two-decades-long love affair with Tuscany’s people, art, cuisine, and lifestyle.

Frances Mayes offers her readers a deeply personal memoir of her present-day life in Tuscany, encompassing both the changes she has experienced since Under the Tuscan Sun and Bella Tuscany appeared, and sensuous, evocative reflections on the timeless beauty and vivid pleasures of Italian life. Among the themes Mayes explores are how her experience of Tuscany dramatically expanded when she renovated and became a part-time resident of a thirteenth-century house with a stone roof in the mountains above Cortona, how life in the mountains introduced her to a “wilder” side of Tuscany–and with it a lively engagement with Tuscany’s mountain people. Throughout, she reveals the concrete joys of life in her adopted hill town, with particular attention to life in the piazza, the art of Luca Signorelli (Renaissance painter from Cortona), and the pastoral pleasures of feasting from her garden. Moving always toward a deeper engagement, Mayes writes of Tuscan icons that have become for her storehouses of memory, of crucible moments from which bigger ideas emerged, and of the writing life she has enjoyed in the room where Under the Tuscan Sun began.

With more on the pleasures of life at Bramasole, the delights and challenges of living in Italy day-to-day, and favorite recipes, Every Day in Tuscany is a passionate and inviting account of the richness and complexity of Italian life.

Image & text from Author's site - http://www.francesmayesbooks.com/every-day-in-tuscany/

Ranunculus

2010-03-16T10:39:00.000-07:00

We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same."
~Anne Frank

Alameda Flea Market

2010-03-14T15:31:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we made a visit to the monthly Alameda Flea Market.

Love the Parisian painted sign window - we are making one for our bathroom cabinet!

A seat like this would look nice in the parlor. What a beautiful hanging oil lamp. We bought a dozen or so Italian hand-painted small butterfly tiles and got some ideas. In conclusion, you either need to know what you are looking for or have a lot of money.

The Girl Scouts were there and I think I had a uniform just like that back in the 70's.

Yellow

2010-02-24T09:35:00.000-08:00

There were also birthday tulips.

Birthday Brownie

2010-02-24T09:18:00.000-08:00

For George's birthday I made Ellie Krieger's recipe for a dark chocolate healthier version brownie. There is a video on Food Network here.

I think it came out pretty good, especially since I served it as a sundae with a scoop of ice cream, drizzle of choc syrup and a dollop of cool whip!

George loved it too and was REALLY happy about the ice cream. ♥

Hearts and a Park

2010-02-15T17:47:00.000-08:00

I made these cute pancakes for Valentine's Day.
Today we went to our first park since living in the East Bay - Lake Temescal for a walk in the park. It's been so long since we've been to a park.

Dress The Table w/Mindy

2010-02-11T09:14:00.000-08:00

How fun, this is my cousin Mindy's first 'webisode' - Enjoy!

The Artist In The Office

2010-02-04T16:01:00.000-08:00

Summer Pierre's book was just released this week! I've read her blog for a few years and even got a copy of her e-zine which this book is based on.

Summer gets it. She's an active artist who has had her share of day jobs. She shows you how to embrace both your creative pursuits & your job in the life you are living now.

From the back cover:

"This ingenious little book isn't about throwing over your day job. It's about integrating the work you have to do with the work you want to do. The Artist in the Ofice will inspire and motivate you despite your daily grind."

This will make an inspiring reference book to use here, at my day job. :)

Check it out.

The Story of Stuff

2010-02-01T11:14:00.000-08:00

Now it makes sense! Especially planned obsolescence which is when things constantly update and no longer work so you have to replace the whole thing (like computers); and perceived obsolescence when you just must have the latest, trendiest item (like fashion). There is a storage commercial we recently saw showing a house full of stuff and the solution they provide is that you don't have to get rid of it, you can put it in storage! Are they saying we fill our houses with so much stuff that we need a storage unit? Wow, that sounds like another problem.

I for one, was raised in this manufactured consumerism way and admit I do like to shop. It's a tough, ingrained habit to break. I am guilty of buying and purging though I do try to donate items as much as possible. George is really good at re-purposing items from furniture, to wood pieces, to bricks, etc. The more I learn, the more it motivates me to want to try and do what I can to become more part of the solution, however small. It all helps.

Check out this video when you have 20 minutes and you'll get an idea of what's really been going on. Annie Leonard spells it all out:

http://www.storyofstuff.com/

Equipment

2010-01-27T16:06:00.000-08:00

EQUIPMENT

Figure it out for yourself, my lad,

You've all that the greatest of men have had,

Two arms, two hands, two legs, two eyes

And a brain to use if you would be wise.

With this equipment they all began,

So start for the top and say, "I can."

Look them over, the wise and great

They take their food from a common plate,

And similar knives and forks they use,

With similar laces they tie their shoes.

The world considers them brave and smart,

But you've all they had when they made their start.

You can triumph and come to skill,

You can be great if you only will.

You're well equipped for what fight you choose,

You have legs and arms and a brain to use,

And the man who has risen great deeds to do

Began his life with no more than you.

You are the handicap you must face,

You are the one who must choose your place,

You must say where you want to go,

How much you will study the truth to know.

God has equipped you for life, but He

Lets you decide what you want to be.

Courage must come from the soul within,

The man must furnish the will to win.

So figure it out for yourself, my lad.

You were born with all that the great have had,

With your equipment they all began,

Get hold of yourself and say: "I can."

--Edgar A. Guest

Journal love & destruction

2010-01-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

Over the holiday weekend, I went through about a dozen old journals. Some people keep them and accumulate volumes. I adore paper journals; however, I am of the other school who prefer to destroy them and this is why -

First, the truth is that when I look back at old 'morning pages' or other random ramblings, for me it's the same old drivel. Boring. The only writings I find interesting to keep are the creative pieces I've written and 'process work' like figuring out career or psychological stuff that takes some time and effort.

Second, I'm forever working on my clutter management and don't need to keep so much.

Third, there are super secret confessions and potentially scandalous stories. Not true, just throwing that out there for kicks.

So I tore up many, many pages and kept only a few. I figure if I don't care to read it again then what's the point of keeping it? Nevertheless, I love writing by hand in moleskines and a lot of my writing is cathartic. I will continue to love journal writing and keep some and destroy others, that's what I do.

Anyway... I'm always curious how others approach this subject. ??

2010-01-18T17:57:00.000-08:00

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience,
but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.
~Martin Luther King Jr.

coffee cake & pottery

2010-01-12T10:42:00.001-08:00

When the creativity is there you just have to go with it if you can.

Last night I had to make a coffee cake. My sister has a great recipe she gave me ages ago and I haven't made it in a few years so it was time to dust off the recipe. In a nutshell, it uses yellow cake mix, vanilla pudding, sour cream, eggs, etc., and you make a separate mixture of sugar, cinnamon, walnuts (or pecans) to sprinkle between layers in a tube/bundt pan. It came out delicious and I think I will make it again next week when we have some guests over.

After that I had to paint a 6" terracotta pot with this cute Tuscan paint set at Michael's. It comes with three small paint colors. First you paint the whole pot Tuscan Red. It dries pretty fast too. Then you use a sea sponge and dab the cranberry wine paint and metallic gold paint all over it, paint the rim in gold and viola! You've just made a plain terracotta pot really pretty.

My Tuscan Wall

2010-01-09T20:01:00.000-08:00

This weekend I painted the "Tuscan Wall". I've never done this before so and just 'winged it' as I usually do when I paint.

I was pleasantly surprised when the sunflowers appeared.

2010

2010-01-01T17:07:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

(To me, 2010 sounds like a year when we'd be living all futuristic-space-age like "Minority Report" or "Blade Runner" or something. Just a thought.)

We were tired and didn't stay up, but we heard horns and firecrackers and other festive noise at midnight. For some reason that reminded me of being a kid and staying up till 12 and banging on pots & pans making noise.

(old tradition being that sound drives away bad spirits so on the beginning of a new year bells, gongs, clapping, laughing etc., were done to drive the bad things away and attract good luck for the coming year.)

Yesterday I got the flu shots and also finished a canvas painting. This is a little fuzzy but the quote says:
"We are the hurdles we leap to be ourselves." ~Michael McClure

Christmas Bowl

2009-12-25T22:04:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and to all a good night.

Bill Strickland

2009-12-16T10:42:00.000-08:00

I'm reading this book "Make the Impossible Possible" by Bill Strickland.
I learned of this book from Sandy. What an inspiring man and story. His words come across authentic and well, like music.

I read this today, he was talking about his definition of Jazz: "Jazz isn't just the music, it's the feeling the music gives you. The feeling is the result of an ability to recognize potential in simple things and ordinary situations, then, through improvisation, conviction, and skill, turn that potential into something remarkable. ... Jazz is a state of mind in which possibilities for innovation and discovery are revealed to you, and you are able to tap into deep reserves of commitment and passion." It was hard to stop there! What a remarkable person.

He did a TED Talk:

Quiet

2009-12-07T15:27:00.000-08:00

Hello...all is well. I just haven't felt like blogging lately.

In Memoriam

2009-11-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure why this band has affected me so greatly, but they have (since circa 1982). I will always love the original INXS.

12 years since M.H. left this world, Don't Change is still my all-time favorite song and I love the montage video. Enjoy the memories.

Peace & Love.

It's official

2009-11-09T15:05:00.000-08:00

The house is ours and I like this quote today-

"You know more than you think you do".~Benjamin Spock

p.s. *sigh* I'm admittedly behind in Nanowrimo AND blog-book club.

getting closer

2009-10-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

We're getting ready to close escrow on our first house. We've both lost weight and some sleep but will soon gain new privileges of home ownership. This is a biggie! I'm grateful to be doing this with someone I completely trust and love because I would not have done it otherwise.

Oh sure I have my moments of anxiety, insecurity, and downright stress. It's all new territory for me. Waking up from a comfortable albiet complacent, season to living life with all the emotions, challenges, and happy surprises.

On a somewhat related note, I love my new commute read "A Million Miles In A Thousand Years" by Donald Miller and read today about how most people have to be forced into change. We like comfort, order, the familiar, and yet it's an 'inciting incident' disrupts the comfortable life in order for a story to happen, the character to move, the person to change.

A mind stretched to a new idea never goes back to its original form. - Oliver Wendell Holmes

Chapter 5 - Risk

2009-10-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

This is me circa 1970.

I liked this chapter about taking risks. Martha had some good nuggets in here:

"What's safe about not being who you were meant to be?"

"Menu Item #5 teaches you something useful: either that the world is safer than you thought, or that you can suffer disappointment and survive."

"It (a daily risk) will expand your horizons, your confidence, your relationships, your achievements, and your happiness so much that in time, you will go looking for the shiver of apprehension that says your have reached the boundary of your comfort zone."

Taking action despite the fear, it's the only way. Taking baby steps, small risks through the fears to our desires. I'm well acquainted with anxiety so talking yourself through anxiety is something I already do.

These are the sort of little risks I've been taking this week:

Left a comment on a blog I've followed for awhile. This lead to signing up for NaNoWriMo officially. Publicly attempting to write a 50,000 word novel in one month.

I've been aware of when I react in less-than-desirable ways like stressing out, and fighting situations I have no control over, which helps nothing. (That's what faith is for Andrea...remember?) I'm really trying to move through this quicker and get to a place of rolling with it, and clean up my mess quickly.

Noticing when I feel nervous, scared, resistance, and trying not to avoid it. Getting to the source and move though it mostly in my thinking and responses to people. I think the actual, physical action of taking a risk does tend to help the most. So I plan to keep doing all the little things that stop or scare me and stretch my comfort zone into a new and larger shape.

Looking forward to seeing how others in the book-blogging club experienced risk this week.

Katie

2009-10-22T14:15:00.000-07:00

My sweet niece is eleven today.

H A P P Y

B I R T H D A Y

K A T I E

I love you.

What a cute cake!

Leadership Tips from the Coach

2009-10-21T09:12:00.001-07:00

Chapter 4 - Creativity

2009-10-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

I only found parts of this chapter interesting & helpful. To me it seemed to be more about breaking through limiting mindsets. I get the part about doing the work, hard work, and not giving up. Stretching ourselves. Yeah, that's necessary.

I did not do all the steps & exercises. However, I did ponder the question, "How could I..." not necessarily regarding 'desires' but in situations ranging from treating loved ones better, awareness of my responses, as well as stretching creatively.

So I guess we take what we can use... and plug along.

Writing a Novel

2009-10-15T15:33:00.000-07:00

It's official. I'm participating.

Using the nickname: SpamanthaJean

2009-10-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

How nice that my comment on Mandy's lovely blog spiraled into a new acquaintance to do nanowrimo with. I think this is one of those fun little coincidences = when God orchestrates conditions while remaining anonymous. So now I will sign up!

Now I'll write a little on-the-spot poetry: 2 ODES

Raindrops

You soothe my weary soul

and reveal leaks in roofs

But we all need the

water.

Autumn leaves

You entice me with your palate

burgundy - ginger -olive -saffron - cinnamon

You inspire me to bake

pumpkin bread

and find a bench to enjoy it with

some coffee or tea

while gazing at you.