Law of Attraction

Chia Fresca.

2012-01-30T09:55:00.001-08:00

This drink is so easy to make I don't think it requires a recipe card;) I love chia drinks they are super yummy and healthy. Right now Meyer Lemons are in season and the weather is warm, so it's my go to refreshment/health drink.

According to nutritional information on my seeds 1 heaping tablespoon provides 2.7 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat (57% of which is alpha-linolenic acid), 5 grams of fiber, plus a ton of essential minerals.

I first heard about chia from my Mom and then read more about them in the book Born to Run. After reading Born to Run I went out and bought my first pound of chia and started experimenting. I love to make hibiscus lime coolers in the summer and put a couple tablespoons in almond flour drop biscuits. I also like to make a night time snack out of them that I call pudding, but it's really not.

Chia Fresca
makes about 5 cups

3 meyer lemons (you can use any juice)
4 cups of water
¼ cup of honey or sweetener of choice
¼ chia seeds

Mix the lemon, water, and sugar together. Whisk chia seeds and refrigerate for 30 min, until chilled. Stir before serving, then serve over ice.

Chia Fresca
makes one serving

juice from half to whole a meyer lemon
12 oz of water
1 TB of chia seeds
sweeten to taste. I use 6 drops of stevia, but you can use honey or sugar.

Blend together lemon juice, water, sweetener. Stir seeds into water and let soak for a couple of minutes. Stir again. Pour over ice.

I buy my chia seeds from Amazon.

Update.

2012-01-27T10:45:00.000-08:00

Planning, gathering, preparing, eating, cleaning up it's a never ending cycle around here. I have hit a rut or two in meal planning and prep over the last month. I have been resisting making menus and grocery shopping like nobody's business.

I think partly because I miss bread so much. I can't express how much I would love to have a slice of pizza or a beer. Even though it hasn't been that hard (I don't know if that makes sense). I think when you are determined to help a loved one get or remain healthy it's hard and not that hard at the same time.

Josh has had a couple of migraines since we started on GAPS, but they have been short or easily treated with a prescription strength Aleeve and/or celery juice. When those migraines have come about Josh gets very upset and sometimes wants to though in the towel. Who can blame him? I completely understand what it feels like to be betrayed by your body.

I was reading Jora's plan and the comments and I ran across a comment by Kim. She suggested that Jora watch this Ted talk. I really enjoyed it and it gave me some inspiration. It's funny how simple ideas that you already know presented in a new way can give you wind in your sails.

Dr. Terry Wahls suggests a diet that consists of 3 cups of green vegetables (which we do), 3 cups of sulfer vegetables (brassica family), 3 cups of color (berries, carrots, peppers, red cabbage), wild and grass feed meat and wild oily fish, and organ meat once a week. That breakdown gives me some goals. Hopefully my green juice counts towards some of that 9 cups of veg a day. I don't know if my jaw can take all that chewing.

I have been craving a great salad prep book. You know a book with all those lovely salads that you eat when you go out. With super yummy, creative vinaigrettes and a variety of vegetables. I haven't found one so I'm thinking that I will do a new/old salad 3x a week and post it. That way I know what has worked and what hasn't and I have a place to go for inspiration when all is lost.

I would love for you all to share any of your favorites in posts or emails. I think it's going to lead to a plate full of goodness.

image via: Shaved Cauliflower and Radicchio Salad

SOPA/PIPA are not dead.

2012-01-17T18:00:00.000-08:00

Hi all. I wanted to let you know that Law of Attraction will be joining internet heavy weights like Wikipedia, Reddit and BoingBoing, as well as many other sites, in tomorrow’s SOPA Strike. I will be blacked out, and therefore inaccessible, between the hours of 8AM and 8PM EST. If don't know about these two pieces of pending legislation, please take some time to educate yourself on the subject. The video below is a great introduction to what they encompass and how we—as creative people who use the internet—will be impacted if they pass. If you want to take action, take a minute to write to your local Congressperson and get your voice heard. If you would like to join the black out on your blog you can get the necessary code from right here.

*update* I've been having a tough time getting the code to work correctly with Blogger. If I figure it out I will share the info here. If not I will have to be happy with a nice 24 hour media fast.

Popout

Moonrise Kingdom

2012-01-13T09:01:00.000-08:00

I love Wes Anderson. I have loved him since the first time I saw Bottle Rocket. I watch at least one of his movies every time I catch a cold or I need to feel better in anyway. He has created a style worth loving. Plus his view on people is similar to how I see and love people.

The children in his films are the way I wish life was when I was a child. I had fantasies of forts, running away, tree houses, adventure, trains, going abroad. The quick punctuated way people talk in his films is how my memories are. The actors he works with are some of my all time favorites. I'm so excited for this next installment and the fact that it was filmed in Newport, RI is even better (some of my favorite characters are from or live in Newport).

2012-01-07T14:16:00.000-08:00

Come on you know you love hand clapping, whistling, and snapping as much as you did when you were a little kid. Nothing will make me like a song more than a some part of the human body making the music with instrumentation (other than the actually singing).

Brett and I while working together at Conover found that we both loved some good clapping. On Thursday I invited him to play some musical ping pong with me and we came up with this list. Some funny, new, and old.

image via: Life (thank you grooviest cult ever)

I'll tumblr for ya.

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

That's right. I'm currently collecting more images on Tumblr. Come by and say 'Hi.' I love visual stuffs.

* you can also click on the icon on the right.

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

I had such a nice break. It was so great spending time with Josh. It's hard to go back to our normal routine. Yesterday morning was a rude awaking. I knew it would be.

We have some nice memories from this holiday season. First I covered the house in glitter, which isn't completely gone. I created some things and Josh and I walked everyday. We drove to walk and we just enjoyed the neighborhood. I had fun with family and internet friends. I'm super grateful for the amazing weather. It made it feel like a real vacation.

I have a belief that I would like to get rid of.

2012-01-01T11:57:00.001-08:00

Call it the Virgo in me or whatever you like, but I have a bit of a problem. I like to think I have to plan everything out. Think it all through. Have the perfect conditions. The most top notch of all executions. Perfection.

As we all know perfection is a fantasy, an illusion. An illusion that I often entertain in my mind. I get all eek, eek, ekk (imagine stabbing motion). The most crazed of uptightness. I'm getting a little better about it, but I backslide all the time.

I have this false belief that I don't deserve the joy of success unless I am perfect and since perfection isn't truly possible the underlying message here is that I don't deserve joy of success ever (way to be kind to myself).

Why do I make mountains out of molehills? Why do I accept other's flaws without hesitation, but my own seem so terrible that I think I'm not worthy of moving forward? Is my ego that big that somewhere in me I think perfection is actually possible for me or that if I don't strive for it I will be less than. Yep it's fucking fear disguised as some sort of future accomplishment.

So as to keep myself from turning this revelation into a opportunity for me to solve a problem I'm going to leave it at that. Let it lie in the moment.

image via: tumblr

2011-12-31T17:56:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone. I just wanted to stop in and say let's have a collectively great year. I made this quick list a couple of days ago put it up as a reminder. It's a good place to start.

Vanilla Almond Ice Cream with Toasted Coconut.

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

I made this ice cream last week and it's so damn good. It's not too sweet and the flavors are so buttery and yummy. Let me know if you make it.

2011-12-17T09:42:00.000-08:00

Speaking of laughing. Josh and I are cleaning out the office closet and I ran across our engagement photos. If anyone doubted that we have been together for 20 years they will no longer. Should have kept that big belt. I hope huge shirts never make a comeback.

I don't think you will be seeing "retro" photos like this on 100layercake anytime soon.

2011-12-16T09:40:00.000-08:00

Have a great weekend. I hope to get outside and finish painting my wall where my light went up. I tried to match the paint by doing a spot painting job, but it didn't work. Now I will have to repaint the entire wall. Oh well. I love the light, so it's completely worth it.

Gluten Free Clouds of Cardamom.

2011-12-13T10:16:00.000-08:00

I was invited to a Ladies Holiday Tea at Alice's home. She asked all of us to bring a favorite batch of holiday treats to share. I will have to say I was a little stressed because since Josh and I have gone gluten free I haven't made very many cookie recipes. I have had a lot of success with almond flour. Most of the things I have baked have been a hit around here. Since I'm really not a baker, or I should say baking requires more attention to detail than I'm willing to give it. I was left racking my brain for what to bring.

Then I remembered a cookie recipe that I've made a few times from Padma Lashmi's Tangy Tart Hot & Sweet and I decide that this was the perfect opportunity to make it GAPS friendly as possible.

The first batch I made I used 1/3 ghee and 2/3 coconut oil and I didn't use the coconut flour. I thought it was a little on the flat side. When made with wheat flour these cookies are a little more like mexican wedding cookies. I discussed with Colleen to see what she thought. We both thought that the oil was making it flatten since the almond flour has it own oils and doesn't absorb the way wheat flour does.

On the batch I brought to the party I used 1.5 cups of blanched flour and .5 cup of almond meal from Trader Joe's. You could use any combination of the almond flours. I don't think you have to have the coconut flour, which you can pick up at Whole Foods, but if you don't I would use a little less ghee. Experiment and let me know what you come up with.

I peel green cardamom and powder it in a coffee grinder. I find that the flavor is fresh and more aromatic than when you buy pre-ground powder, but each his/her own.

If you wanted to make this fully GAPS friendly you could dust in dried honey powder instead. It's on the expensive side, but it may be worth it. You could also make these vegan by using only coconut oil, just use a little less.

Ingredient Resources: Blanched Almond Flour, Coconut Flour

The Featured Creature.

2011-12-11T10:38:00.001-08:00

If you have a kid that loves weird animals and crazy insects. You have to check out The Featured Creature. I just spent at least a half hour making Josh look over at some of the most amazing animals I have seen in awhile. Have fun.

images via: the featured creature from top left to bottom right: Momongas (nocturnal flying squirrels from Japan), Bat-Eared Fox, Peacock Mantis Shrimp, Micrablepharus maximiliani

How Things Wrap Up in 2011.

2011-12-09T10:44:00.001-08:00

This year I decided that Christmas was going to be glam meets nature. I don't know why, but I've been loving bright ass magenta lately. I have always been a secret fan of hot pink, but I thought it would be fun to do for the holidays.

I think the sputnik is to blame. We will see if I get it all done. I'm kind of famous in my own mind for having a ton of plans of what I'm going to do and getting everything wrapped and decorated right before Christmas. I love wrapping gifts, but it would be better if I got to enjoy the wrapping a bit longer.

I already bought the hen feathers from this seller on etsy. I love them. She let's you say exactly what you want and they got here super quick. I made some stamps, but I have to go out and get a gold stamp pad. I bought a light color craft style paper from Ikea early in the season because believe it or not I ran out of paper last year. It felt like a grand accomplishment.

images via: 1 * 2 * 3 * 4 * 5

Filling in the GAPS.

2011-12-06T08:18:00.001-08:00

As you may know if you read this blog my husband, Josh was suffering from weekly migraines. They had gotten progressively worse over the course of about 7 years. We had tried so many alternative treatments and food elimination plans, but nothing had given him any relief. So at the beginning of November we decided to embark on a juice fast.

The first week of the juice fast was rough. It was a big adjustment for Josh and me both. He doesn't like a lot of veggies that I love. For instance he will tell you that he likes vegetables and then I will say "not really." He doesn't like squash unless it's grilled and in small doses. He hates sweet potatoes. I've tried beets so many different ways I can't tell you. Not a huge fan of brussels sprouts. Basically this leaves you with broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and salad greens, which meant that we couldn't follow the Reboot plan at all. So the first 5 days looked like this.

Breakfast: Baked Apples

Mid Morning: Green Juice

Lunch: Date, Banana, Homemade Almond Milk and some Almond Butter Smoothie

Mid Day: Root Juice

Dinner: Salad and a Green Juice

Then we did 3 days of juice only.

Breakfast: Green Juice

Mid Morning: Root Juice

Lunch: Green Juice

Mid Day: Coconut Water

Dinner: Green Juice

Josh got his migraine right on schedule in the middle of this. It sucked. I felt completely desperate. We had gotten rid of everything he could possibly be reacting to and he was still getting his gut symptoms and migraine. I wanted to cry. Plus he was starving and I had gained 4 pounds. No bueno.

I called Colleen and asked her what she thought about switching to GAPS (gut and psychology syndrome) in the middle of this. I had done some hasty reading on it and some of what Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride was saying about other gut related issues made sense when it came to Josh. He seemed up to it so we started.

The first day I made the homemade chicken stock and I didn't know you could have much more than that because like I said I had been a hasty reader. I handed Josh a bowl of broth and he moaned with delight. He acted as if I had just given him a cup of gelato, not chicken broth.

We went through the intro diet quickly. We did most of the stages a day each and are now on the full diet. I will post on what we ate for the intro week. I couldn't have done it without being able to call Colleen (she has been studying the diet and had followed it for awhile) to ask questions.

Since we have been doing this Josh has had one hint of a migraine in 4 weeks. He seems so much better. I'll keep you updated on the progress. side note: after the first week of not getting a migraine I was so excited but I had this thought right away "let's not start sucking each other's d*cks yet fellas." -pulp fiction. I've kept this in mind when I get too cocky thinking this is solved. I know health is ever evolving and not always a done deal;)

image via: anthony burrill

2011-12-05T17:54:00.001-08:00

I had a fun weekend. I did a ton of stuff and yet felt completely present and enjoyed it all. Went to a yard sale a friend was having and totally scored some amazing stuff. Went out to see Little Hurricane at the Casbah with The Heavy Guilt and Hills Like Elephants. I had seen Little Hurricane before and they delivered yet again. The Heavy Guilt was a complete surprise. They were all awesome, but the percussionist stole the show if you ask me. That guy had some serious tricks up his sleeve. Plus a chunky necklace and a pick in his hair. Who isn't going to be entertained by that?

On Sunday I went to my first Fermenter's Club meeting. I'll do a post on what I learned. It was super fun and nerdy. I even went full nerd and bought a t-shirt. One of my good friends that I've known since I was ten had 4 hours to kill before flying back to Colorado and we went to a craft faire that my other friend had a booth at. Good times.

I also made 2 of the three recipes I shopped for from What Katie Ate and they were all so good. Another week with Josh migraine free! Life is good.

Meal Planning. 11.30.11

2011-11-30T13:22:00.001-08:00

I was starting to think about some of the meals that I would be making this week, when What Katie Ate came up in my Reader. Half the week is solved. Thanks, Katie.

images via: what katie ate. gif by me.

20 Minutes to Clean.

2011-11-29T09:19:00.001-08:00

I've been on the 20 minute plan ever since I quit my job this last summer. I had a housekeeper that came in every other week when I was working at the studio, but with one less salary I decided that I could do without it. I knew I needed a plan.

I had bookmarked this plan from Apartment Therapy and I thought I would give it a try. I programmed my iphone and computer to give me alerts for each new task. So everyday I'm told what my 20 minutes will be. There's still dishes, laundry and minor pick up (all Josh and Desi co-productions) that get done everyday along with the daily alerts.

I sometimes fall behind or need to do it all at once (house guests, etc.), but I think my house is more consistently clean than it ever was with a housekeeper. First of all when I knew it was all going to be clean at once I would procrastinate tasks so my house over two weeks would be come messier and messier. Don't get me wrong I was still cleaning, it just wasn't steady.

I would like to add some cleaning tools to my arsenal like that Dyson cordless vacuum. My house is small and when Josh and I were first married we bought a Rainbow vacuum, which is awesome, but cumbersome for quick rug and furniture clean up. I have one of these old fashioned sweepers, but it's not always enough.

I use mostly Mrs. Meyer's products and homemade concoctions, but I'm always a sucker for good packaging so some times I try something new. I usually return though.

Do you have a cleaning schedule or do you just wing it? Any tips?

images via: top - right, left bottom - right, left

2011-11-24T08:55:00.001-08:00

This is one of my favorite holidays. This year I'm attempting a very mellow holiday. Last year was a disaster. In fact it was such a disappointment that I had buried in in my subconscious. I was trying to recall last year when a friend asked me and I replied 'I don't remember what I did last year.' Disaster.

Josh and I finished our Reboot and started the GAPS plan, so this Thanksgiving will be a gluten-free one. Here's what we will be eating -

Turkey - I'm going to try this method that Jora test ran earlier this week.

Roasted Carrot Salad

Cauliflower Garlic Mash

Cranberry Sauce - I think I'm going to sub the raisins for apples.

Baked Pumpkin and Sour Cream Pudding

Lavender & Honey Raw "Cheese" Cake

Herbed drop biscuits

Along with all that food. I will be keeping all the people, places and things I'm grateful for close to my heart.

Gratitude List

An amazing supportive husband
A sister that's my bestest
My home
My neighborhood
New friends
A creative compassionate mind
Getting older & wiser
My always improving health
Josh being 2 weeks migraine free

Soup and Crackers.

2011-11-22T11:18:00.001-08:00

This is what I had for lunch yesterday and it was really yummy. I like to improvise soup recipes, but I thought this one was worth writing down.

I served this with these sesame seed crackers from Elana's Pantry. I cut the recipe in half and it still made a ton of crackers. They were so good that I had them as a snack with cream cheese, honey, and lavender served with some Earl Grey tea. Heaven on a work day afternoon.

You could use whatever spices suit you for this Carrot Ginger Soup recipe. Enjoy.

Home Cure for the Common Cold.

2011-11-19T09:51:00.001-08:00

I was getting a cold. Let's face it I had a cold last night. It was crazy. I was sneezing my head off and my eyes stung so bad and were so watery that I could barely see. Since I'm back on juice I went to google and search "best juice to combat a cold."

There were some crazy suggestions and if I were more brave I might have tried them. One called for a head of fresh garlic juice with carrots. I thought that would be way too strong to be able to stomach. I saw some stuff that called for grapefruit. I had grapefruit and my new juicer is so great that you can just cut the peel off and put it in. The pith of citrus is super good for you so I thought I would try it with a two inch slice of ginger for good measure. It was hot with ginger and just what the Dr. ordered.

In my search I read things about taking baths to raise your body temperature before you get a fever to burn off the cold. I also read that you can put hydrogen peroxide in each of your ears and keep it in for 5-10 minutes on each side (until you don't hear any bubbles). So I climbed in the tub with a cup of epsom salt, my juice and a book, put some hydrogen peroxide in each ear and relaxed.

I felt like a miracle happened. Right after my ear treatment I felt measurably better. I'm well this morning. Crazy stuff. I still have a little congestion, but I think I have this thing beat. I love you internet.

image via: Me, Peg and Awl Etsy Shop (if I had room I would have one)

Run & Run Music Mix.

2011-11-17T10:13:00.001-08:00

The promise of music in my ears is sometimes all I need to put my running shoes on and get going. This has been my mix for the past few weeks. It's a mix of old and new. I usually just hit shuffle after I warm up with a little Bowie. You can listen to it here. * I forgot to put this when I first posted it. Oops.

Music Mix: Run & Run

Under Pressure
Queen & David Bowie

Paranoid
Black Sabbath

Neon Angels On the Road to Ruin
The Runaways

Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah)
Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

Memories (Feat. Kid Cudi)
David Guetta - Kid Cudi

On to the Next One (Jay-Z & Swizz Beatz)
Jay-Z

Walking on a Dream
Empire of the Sun

Something to Look Forward to
Spoon

Fit But You Know It
The Streets

Higher Ground
Red Hot Chili Peppers

Can't Tell Me Nothing
Kayne West

Queen Bitch
David Bowie

2011-11-16T18:33:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was a little all over the place. I started with a trip up to see a printer and that started a paper mystery that left me a little angry by 10am. I really had to catch myself. I haven't been that hot in quite awhile. I was just going to go into all the details, but decided to delete. It's not really important. What is important is how I reacted to it.

I will give myself a break considering I was yelled at by a defensive person that I was doing everything in my power not to put on the defensive. That calmness is what finally solved the issue and for that I am so grateful. I said a little affirmation, looked in my heart for some compassion for this person and reengaged. Time and compassion is all the issue needed. In that space it solved itself.

I went on a studio tour, met with the cable guy, went to lunch with Sean, saw a classmate in Trader Joe's that was in town from Wyoming (which was just amazing) that I haven't seen in 3 years, got a library card, made a roast and just chilled with Josh. Sometimes it's crazy to look back on a blip in time that we call a day and see all the places it's taken you in your heart and mind.

image via: i can't find the source. if anyone knows please let me know;)

Cortido ⎨Salvadoran Sauerkraut⎬

2011-11-15T14:53:00.001-08:00

Cortido (aka curtido) is a variation on sauerkraut that comes from El Salvador. It is typically served alongside a dish called pupusas. ( Boy what I wouldn't do for a pupusa right about now ) You can use Cortido as a condiment or a side dish.

This is so yummy and good for you. Traditionally it's made with pineapple vinegar, but I lacto-fermented mine. I've been messing around with fermentation here and there. Although now I think I'm going to take it to the next level. My friend Carly told me about this Fermenter's Club that meets here in San Diego and if possible I'm going to their next meeting. I can't wait. Until then I will be curing away on my very own.

P.S. If anyone local is interested in coming to a meeting with me, just drop me a line.

Cortido
from Nourishing Traditions
Makes 2 quarts

1 large cabbage, cored and shredded
1 cup carrots, grated
2 medium onions, quartered lengthwise and very finely sliced
1 TB of dried oregano ( I used a little more because I used fresh)
¼ - ½ t of red pepper flakes ( i used chipotle pepper flakes and 1 t )
1 TB sea salt
4 TB whey ( if not available, use an additional 1 TB of salt )

In a large bowl mix all ingredients. Pound with a wooden pounder or meat hammer for about 10 minutes to release juices. Place in 2 quart-sized, wide mouth mason jars and press down firmly with a pounder or meat hammer until juices com to the top of the cabbage. The top of the cabbage mixture should be at least 1 inch below the top of the jars. Cover tightly and keep at room temperature for about 3 days before transferring to cold storage.

11.11.11

2011-11-11T08:21:00.001-08:00

Josh and I have always had good luck in double digit numbers. We got married on the 22 when Josh was 22 and one of the favorite places we ever lived address was 222. Right now we live in a 33. I don't really put a ton of weight in all this stuff, but I do find it to be really fun. Have a fun filled 11.11.11.

A little info: In Numerology 11 is a Master (or Power) Number, as are all double digit numbers, such as 22, 33, 44, 55, 66, 77, 88, and 99. The 11 represents rare and exceptional energy originating from outside mundane reality. It also represents impractical idealism, being visionary, intuition, revelation, and artistic and inventive genius. In Astrology, the eleventh sign of the zodiac is Aquarius associated with the 11th house. The astrological traits of Aquarius are attributed to humanitarianism, eccentricity, intellectualism and independence. Uranus is the ruling planet of Aquarius and brings with it a new way of looking at things and its approach is best met with an expanded consciousness. Uranus rules unexpected change, upheaval and revolution.

Making Me Happy in This Moment.

2011-11-08T10:10:00.000-08:00

Jora inspired this post from her post yesterday. I often get all wound up inside and forget to take a minute. In fact I waste a ton of time and energy by staying in a tense physical and spiritual state more than I would care to admit. Here's to taking a moment to be in a state of bliss. Here's what makes me happy.

➊ breathe - I forget to take deep breathes all the time. This simple act can help me to refocus on happiness is seconds.

➋ go for a run - Running is like meditation in motion for me. I love yoga too, but running is easy for me to do. Less excuses.

➌ watercolor - I love to watercolor. Color studies are one of my favorites. I've been really into this technique lately.

➍ take a picture - Instagram helps me not feel so alone here in my office.

➎ light a candle - Lighting candles is one of my favorite acts. I like to set intentions every time I do it.

➏ drink some tea - I love tea and it warms my hands.

➐ turn on some music - Why do I forget about music? I love it. Been enjoying Lykke Li; Youth Novels.

➑ dance, dance, dance - I dance around the house all time. I miss embarrassing Brett with my spazzy dancing in the office.

➒ walk away from the computer - I have a love / hate thing going with it.

➓ read an article, a novel, just read off the screen - I love reading. I was under-employed in my early twenties and I spent weeks and weeks reading classics from the library. I miss that.

images: ebay ( I have a sweater simular to this and I call it my day robe. It always makes me smile ), roost ( I can't wait to cook from here when my fast is over. I love that she has grain free / gluten free recipes that look fantastic ).

15 Days to Reboot.

2011-11-07T16:07:00.000-08:00

Blake you have inspired me to write with your question. I had planned on writing about our juice fast, but knowing me I would have made it really hard to do (must make video of me juicing, pictures from the market, etc). Instead I'm just going to tell you what we are doing and why. Hopefully that will be OK.

Josh and I saw Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead about a month ago. During the course of the film Joe Cross goes on a 60 day juice fast to lose weight and heal himself from an autoimmune disorder all while traveling across the United States. One of the people Joe meets gets migraines and she does a 10 day fast in which she comes out the other end not getting migraines. Here's a little back story...

Josh has been getting migraines for the last 12 years or so. They started out being about 3-4 times a year, then they progressed to monthly, then biweekly. Now he gets one every week. Like clockwork.

We have tried almost everything. He has been scanned from head to toe, blood and urine tests. Acupuncture. He's taken herbs, B vitamins and tintures. No wine, no chocolate, no gluten, no salty snacks, no aged cheese, stress triggers and the list goes on. I will have to say that he hasn't been as good on the stress management side as on other things, but it doesn't seem to matter and I can't blame him considering he has a huge headache waiting for him every week. That would put me over the edge.

Josh said he wanted to try a juice fast. I jumped on board fast because he is very resistant to change and it was his idea.

RESEARCHED JUICERS: I owned a Champion for years and it was a bitch to clean, so I wanted something that was easy to clean and squeezed the maximum amount of juice from my expensive organic fruits and veggies. I landed on this Breville juicer. I love it. I keep telling anyone who wants to listen how cool it is.

PLANNED MENU: We are doing the Reboot Standard Program, with some recipe modifications, because he will not eat orange food. I've tried. It's not a OCD thing, he just happens to have a problem with most orange fruit or veggies.

The Standard Program is 5 days only veggies and fruit with juices, 5 days juice only, 5 days only veggies and fruit. I'm also using some of the Pressed Juicery's juices as jumping off points. So far the pineapple, green apple and mint is a hit.

GATHERED: See this post.

What we see happening is that Josh breaks his cycle of weekly migraines and move on to more meaningful healing and less drugs. I would also like to get some allergy relief, which if today is any indication, I think I just might. I'll keep you posted.

Die-Cast

Juice

Fountain

Elite

2011-11-06T09:15:00.000-08:00

I have been shopping in prep for a juice fast the past couple of days and I found myself on the phone to my Mom asking her about the Dirty Dozen and the Clean Fifteen. She had to dig up something that she had grabbed from Whole Living magazine awhile back and it got me thinking...there must be an app for that. And there is. You can go and sign up at Environmental Working Group and download the app for your iphone or android or print out a card for your wallet. It's free.

I made some pretty good decisions without it, but it's good to know. Especially when non organic pineapple is 77¢ each at Spouts and organic is $4 a piece at Whole Foods.

Speaking of pricy fruit. I went to Speciality Produce this week and found some Yuzu, which had me very excited because it's tasty and I had been on the hunt for awhile. At over a dollar a piece I was still excited and picked up 7 or 8 of the suckers. Then I get them home an slice them open and they are packed with seeds. I got about a teaspoon of juice out of each of them. So I guess that has off set my win on the pineapple.

2011-11-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

I love moccasins. I have always had at least one pair. In fact my first pair of shoes were moccasins. My mom has them bronzed somewhere.

I've been thinking about adding a bootish pair to my collection or some beaded. Moccasins have replaced most of my flats. They are so comfortable. I think they are good for my feet too. I'm also considering going completely DIY and making my own pair. There are some amazing patterns out there.

images via: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6

2011-10-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

I have a list of thing that I have been meaning to post, but those will have to wait. I thought that I had shared my love for Marc Maron's WTF on my blog, but searching (yes, I have to use the search function on my own blog) I realized that I hadn't.

I have been listening to WTF since the beginning and I have learned a lot about myself through listening to comics and Marc process so many different common human themes. I think if you are new to WTF you should go back and look for some comics that you might be interested in listening to and then listen to some of his current interviews.

Two of his recent interviews were so good. This one with Norm MacDonald and this one with Author Steve Almond. Steve and Marc's conversation about music and life experience has had me thinking about own beautiful life experiences with music.

I would love to hear what you think. You can download WTF from iTunes for free or Listen on his website.

image via: wtf

2011-10-11T09:47:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share my simple yummy fall treat. I love chai with diluted apple cider. It's one of my favorite things to sip on when the weather turns a little cool. All I do is heat up some cider on the stove, add a little water and steep tea bag as usual. It's so yummy.

I'm really into Gypsy Tea's Coconut Chia too. If you try it let me know what you think.

images via: Gypsy Tea, Santa Cruz Organic

2011-10-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to post about a few things and I was getting into a minor panic about it. I tend to make small tasks seem much more time consuming than they really are (hello bookkeeping).

I have been enjoying all of Ann Marie's posts about being outdoors. Her trips are lust worthy and she really is making me re-evaluate the importance of city dwelling.

Laure's blog At Home At Home always inspires me, but her latest post on taking some time out really got me. Not only is she going to relax in Paris, but she gets to look out on that amazing courtyard (I'm a huge fan of Richard Linklater, so I didn't even have to think of what movie that courtyard was from).

I started this blog just for myself. I never planned on keeping up with my lovely friends, meeting people as a result of it or connecting to others. I love that it's turned into that. More than that I love all of the blogs that I read on a daily basis. I laugh, cry, get inspired, cook as a result, lust after stuff... the list goes on and on. Most importantly I dream. I dream bigger and more grounded as a result of life shared.

Sarah and Eric's purchase of their farm is so inspiring. Go over and check it out if you haven't. Dream come true. So cool.

Sorry for the free writing, but that's just how I roll. Lastly I would like to share some wool socks. I love wool socks. My feet freeze when the weather gets even a little chilly. I'm really into Smartwool. I have a couple pairs and they can really take a beating. Here's to warm feet and warm hearts.

images via: i am an age old tree, at home at home, sapiua, smartwool

Manifesting.

2011-09-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

My iphone can manifest stuff. At first I thought it was just things that I remembered I needed from Amazon while I was out and about, but now it's photos.

I haven't printing any photos in so long. Seriously, I have film that I haven't developed since I moved to San Diego (six years ago). So imagine my surprise when I downloaded Postal Pix to my iphone, selected the pictures I wanted to print and 2 days later they were in my mailbox. Badass if you ask me.

Where Children Sleep.

2011-09-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

My brother in law, Neil, alerted me to this book by James Mollison called Where Children Sleep. Super powerful stuff. It's incredible that we are all sharing this planet and experiencing it in such different ways.

Take a look here. A good article here.

images via: James Mollison

Beach Towels.

2011-09-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

A couple of years ago I was really lusting after these linen towels from Toast, when I thought... I have linen and I can sew. I'm going to sew us up some beach towels. So I order some black linen (I already had the flax) and sewed up two 58 x 70 inch beach towels. I'm so glad I did. We have used them at the beach, camping and as a throw to nap with. I love them so much and they took all of 15 minutes to make. You can see that if I took a little more time the stitching could have been straighter, but that's what makes them mine. I never said I was patient.

Perserved Lemons.

2011-09-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to make some more preserved lemons for awhile now. I love them on everything. I am a lemonhead and not always the sweet candy type.

I used this recipe from Sunday Suppers. It's simple and I think it's my favorite. Jora was asking for some ways to use preserved lemons so I'm going to give a list of easy add-ons I like and a recipe.

Add to a couscous salad with mint and feta
Add to salad dressing chop it up with cumin, cilantro, garlic and olive oil
Add to pasta (as is or chopped) with salmon, capers, parsley, dill, butter and or olive oil
Add to a pizza with ricotta and herbs
Add to sauteed kale and garlic
Serve with fish and chips
Bake with chicken, olives, capers and tomatoes
Use as a condiment to anything you want to add salt and acid to

Cast-Iron Chicken with Preserved Lemon
from Tangy Tart Hot & Sweet

½ cup olive oil

1 whole chicken cut into parts (or what ever you have in your fridge as far as chicken is concerned)

½ cup chopped onion

2 teaspoons of minced garlic

½ teaspoon of dried thyme

1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper or chipotle
8 slices of preserved lemon diced with seeds removed
2 cups chicken stock
1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

⓵ Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

⓶ Heat ¼ cup of the olive oil in large skillet and brown the chicken, skin side down, on medium-high heat. Don't crowd the pan. When the skin is golden, turn the chicken over to the brown the other side. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, until the chicken is done.

⓷ While the chicken is cooking, in a deep skillet heat ¼ cup of olive oil, and brown the onions and garlic. Once the onions have softened, add the thyme, red pepper, and preserved lemon. After 5 minutes, increase the heat and add the chicken stock. Once the stock has come to a boil, reduce the eat and simmer until the chicken is read to come out of the oven, 25 to 30 minutes. The sauce should by now be very thick and reduced by half. Add the chopped parsley.

⓸ Remove the skillet from the oven. Add the sauce and stir to incorporate the pan juices. Serve immediately. Serves 4.

*Tag* Blake your it.

2011-09-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

It was so much fun meeting up with Blake and Jora. It was good to step outside my comfort zone a bit to meet up with some internet friends (as I like to call them) that I hope will become more than cyber buddies.

As an added bonus it was really cool to meet their kids. What a great bunch of little ones. I love kids. They are so much fun. I don't have any of my own and I don't know if I will, but I truly enjoy them when they are around. Entertainment around every corner.

I haven't gotten to hang out with small peeps as much since Colleen and Jason moved back up to Murphys. I miss them all so much.

For fun I thought I would do a round up of some of my favorite kidlet worthy stuff from around the net.

P.S. for those of you that love birth stories you should check out Colleen's story she just posted. lovely.

images from top left to bottom right: super cute diy capelet, kidstyle crotchrocket, living molecule building set, super sky trees skirt, hand printed baby leggings, awesome baby swing.

Baked Navy Beans with Apples, Bacon and Mustard.

2011-09-02T08:47:00.000-07:00

This one's for you Blake. You can see a side of this recipe on Salt, Teak and Fog because Blake is much better at remembering to take photos than I am.

This recipe is an adaptation from The Versatile Grain and the Elegant Bean. It's a cookbook that I have owned and used for at least 18 years. I bought it from a book club when I was a vegetarian and I had no idea of how to cook anything let alone stuff without meat. There are a lot of meat recipes in it, but you can sub if meat isn't your thing. I love this book. It has never let me down.

Baked Navy Beans with Apples, Bacon and Mustard

2 cups of Navy Beans soaked and drained (You can use any white bean or Steuben yellow-eyed)
Salt to taste (I use smoked sea salt and sea salt. I think if you are veggie this is the best way to get a hearty flavor sans bacon)
1 onion, peeled and stuck with 6-8 whole cloves
1-2 finely chopped shallot(s)
½ pound of bacon rashers with fat removed, cut into ½ inch pieces (I like the uncured bacon ends from Trader Joe's)
1 cup unfiltered apple juice
2 T of coarse grain mustard (I like Annie's Horseradish Whole Grain Mustard)
1 T of ketchup
½ t of chipotle flakes
1 t of lemon juice (you can add more to taste)
¼ t black pepper
1 tart green apple, peeled and thinly sliced (approx. 1 cup)

In a 3-quart saucepan, cook the beans with tepid water to cover by 2 inches, until the beans are tender, about 45-60 minutes. Add salt the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place the beans with liquid in a ovenproof casserole or bean pot (I use my le creuset pot so I can go from stove to oven). Tuck the onion in the center. In a fry pan cook bacon for 3-5 minutes over med/high heat, add shallot sauté until caramelized. In a small bowl mix the remaining ingredients together with bacon and shallots, stir into the beans. Cover and bake for 30 minutes (add more liquid if you see fit). Then uncover, stir gently and bake for 30 more minutes more. Remove onion and cloves and discard. Serve right from the casserole.

Mother's Jeans.

2011-08-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

These Mother Denim Shorts were stolen directly out of my Mom's 1977 wardrobe. I love these shorts and I love Mother Denim. I may need a pair.

BTW, I think I had to pee really badly.

images via: my dad, shopbop

Making me happy right now.

2011-08-22T09:31:00.000-07:00

Gladiolus. They are so beautiful. They remind me of my mom and grandma who always had gladiolus bulbs in their gardens. I bought mine at Trader Joe's for $1.99 and it's been almost a week and they are still glorious. Glorious Gladdies.

Monday mornings are for smiling.

2011-08-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

2011-08-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

After camping in Moab we continued on into Colorado. We stayed at the Viceroy at Snowmass. Oh my what a lovely hotel. We had a Jr. Penthouse and it had everything. Huge tub, 2 bathrooms, 2 huge fireplaces, 3 flat screen TVs, amazing room service, full kitchen with everything you could want, 45 dollar a bottle shampoo (my hair was so shiny, not 45 dollar a bottle shiny, but shiny). I could go on listing, but let's just say it was nice. It was a great place to clean up from camping at and the staff was super friendly.

We were told about a great hike that was a 12 mile drive from the hotel. It's a steep hike up to Cathedral Lake. The wild flowers were incredible. That is where I bit it, but other than that I loved every minute up there. We came off the mountain and had a nice afternoon in Aspen. I was looking for Hunter S. Thompson's ghost (man I miss that guy), but I never found it. He must still be out at Owl Farm.

We spent three days in Denver. I really enjoyed the city. When we first arrived I wasn't sure about it. Let's just say it did give the best first impression, but it grew on me quick. I love the random pianos around town that anyone can play on.

Let's just say that any city that has tubing in the city is ok by me. It's a great city to walk around and we had some truly amazing food. Some of the best sushi I've ever had and I've been to some pretty great places.

May I suggest:

1. Proto's Pizza super thin crust pizza, great salads and a nice bar.
2. Sushi Sasa fresh, fresh, fresh.
3. Euclid Hall we shared a s'more pot de creme that I can't get out of my mind.

We went one night to Comedy Works and saw Bobcat Goldthwait. What a great show and club. I wish more comics came to San Diego, but they don't. They all sight crappy military audiences (young drunks) as a reason to skip us. Boo.

Josh and I also explored the Museum of Contemporary Art while we were there. If I lived in Denver I would live in that place. They have a great cafe on the roof top and the exhibits were fantastic.

Then we moved on to a couple days in Rocky Mountain National Park. Josh had wanted to go there since he was a kid and I can see why. It was breathtaking. Every hike, picnic, and drive was met with both of us telling the other, "are you seeing that?" If you haven't been...GO. It's huge. There are so many eco systems. The Tundra was incredible. I felt like I was on top of the world and to a certain degree I was.

We drove back through Utah and stopped at Goblin Valley and Capital Reef. Also amazing beauties. I would do that trip again 100 times and bring people along the ride, if they would let me drag them. Next time I want to raft, zip line, and climb.

2011-08-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about quitting my studio job is vacation. I swear that I wouldn't work at another place other than my own without negotiating a Euro-like vacation package. No rest makes Desi a pest.

This year I asked Josh where he wanted to go and he said Colorado. He didn't really know what he wanted to do there, but he knew he wanted to see Rocky Mountain National Park. We did that and much more.

I think I will do this in a couple of parts because we were gone for two weeks and I don't want you to have to scroll through too many photos.

First of all we couldn't have ordered better weather. We felt so lucky. We drove from San Diego to St. George, Utah and spent the night. It was 102 degrees in Moab that day and we were scared. We were weather wimps before we moved to San Diego, but our location has exasperated our condition. Josh was in full blown panic mode.

Josh: Honey I don't think we will be able to handle it. We can just get a hotel and wait out the weather until we continue on to Aspen.

Me: It will be fine. It's only supposed to be 90 tomorrow.

It was 68 - 74 degrees the whole time we were in the desert. We hiked all over Canyonlands and continued to Arches. I have to say that Canyonlands was one of my favorite places we went. The views were out of this world and watching all the storms roll in and out was amazing. It was just us and the Germans and the French.

Our campsite was perfect mix of amenities and roughing it. It had a shade cover over the table and a functioning electric light. Only twenty sites in the place and no loud neighbors. We were rained on both nights that we camped, but it was more adventure than tragedy.

Next stop Colorado.

I itch.

2011-08-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

I'm going to post about my vacation, but right now all I can think about is... I ITCH. I fell when Josh and I were on a hike in Aspen almost two weeks ago and now some of the deeper wounds are healing and they itch. They itch so badly that I woke up at 2am peeling my bandages off wanting to go after them with a vengeance.

Do any of you watch Louie? It's a show created by Louie CK the comedian. In a recent episode he is on a road trip and his five year old keeps saying, "I'm bored." This is the repeat that my brain is on, only it's "I itch." My only hope is to Zen out and go after the itch until it retreats.

Thanks for letting me share.

Someone buy this already.

2011-07-11T17:42:00.000-07:00

Will someone please buy this dress and get married in it? Pretty Please.

Happy Independence Day Weekend.

2011-07-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited for this weekend. I have a lot to do today, but it's all going to get done.

I spent yesterday in Los Angeles. What a great day. We went everywhere. At least that's what it felt like.

First Stop: Hennessey Ingalls Bookstore Don't go here if you don't have time. It's like the internet in book form.

Second: Gjelina and GTA The food was great. My sister and I shared a lovely beet salad and pizza. I also had a beer cocktail (pilsner, ginger syrup and lime).

Third: Every shop on Abbot Kinney. Went to some favorites like Tortoise General Store. I bought these that I pinned not so long ago. Can't wait to use them. On our way out I had the best coffee at GTA and a blueberry, mint, lemonade, ice tea from Lemonade.

Fourth: We stopped at the Beverly Center and walked over to Heath Ceramics. I collected some more Weck canning jars and we saw a great knobby glaze exhibit by Adam Silverman.

Finally: On the way home we stopped off at South Coast Plaza to go to Madewell.

We really packed it in and I'll be recovering from all the sugar today. Glad I went for a run before we left.

image via: Faile

Everyday Face.

2011-06-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share some makeup/skincare stuff that I can't live without.

1 Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleanser is the best stuff. It takes off your makeup too. When I'm a good girl and actually wash my face in the morning and at night this is what I do it with.

2 Thanks Miss Jora for the tip on Bio-Oil. I love using this on my skin that's starting to look old. You know the skin I'm talking about. Hello, neck and chest.

3 I don't think I have fallen for a product as hard as I have fallen for Origins VitaZing. It's pricey, but so worth it. It's like a tinted moisturizer, but not. I can't explain it. You'll have to try it for yourself, but I promise that you will love it. Plus it has sunscreen in it too.

4 Benefit Cosmetics Ooh La Lift is the best under eye lift that still looks natural I've ever used.

5 L'Oreal Paris Lineur Intense Felt Tip Liquid Eyeliner, Carbon Black is my favorite eyeliner ever.

6 This is the best. When Nars says multiple they mean it. NARS The Multiple Malibu

7 I love this mascara right now, but I could change my mind. It happens a lot.

8 Finally, my favorite of all time lip balm. It heals. Everyone that has ever used it by my suggestion can't use anything else or when they do this is the stick that they compare it to. Mode de Vie Shea Butter Lip Balm Vanilla .25 oz

I want to hear about your favorites now. Holla.

Just in Case.

2011-06-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

Just in case you follow me on Pinterest and you didn't believe me that this picture of Elizabeth Taylor reminded me of old pictures of my grandma. My uncle uploaded some old photos not the specific one that's like the Liz photo, but I think you can see what I was talking about.

The top photo is when she was 15 and my grandpa bought her those wooden wheeled rollerskates. I think my sister has them now. The bottom photo is a few years later when she and my grandpa lived in Pacifica, CA with their four children. Craziness. My grandma was only a couple of years older than me when I was was born. How times have changed.

Solstice Inspirado.

2011-06-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

I know JCrew says it's mid-summer already, but I think that's bullshit. The Solstice just happened. I'm making some popsicles and soaking up some sunshine. I'm going to be in the moment and I'm definitely not going to start shopping for a GD fall wardrobe. I hope you are all as excited to drink it in as I am.

images from top left to bottom right: alright sans, summer uniform, woven fedora, bar gelato, kork-ease, sunny porch, lakeside

Favorite Cookbooks.

2011-06-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

If you are anything like me you have a ton of cookbooks, but only a few all time favorites. Books that you go back to again and again. One of my favorites is Tangy Tart Hot and Sweet: AWorld of Recipes for Every Day by Padma Lakshmi. The recipes are great, plus the design and writing are pitch perfect.

I cook out of this at least once a week and I've made most of the recipes. I thought I would share this one with you this week. It's one of my favorites and it could be made a million different ways. I have even made it veggie by substituting the chicken with cauliflower. I'm going to give you my little tweaks. It's a crowd pleaser and it will feed a couple for a few meals.

MOROCCAN BISTEEYA (CURRIED CHICKEN PIE)

16 sheets of filo dough (17 inches x 12 inches)

3 T of grapeseed oil

1 cup minced shallots

4 cloves of garlic, minced

3 T of ginger root, minced

2 lbs. ground organic chicken (I have the butcher grind half breast and half thigh)

2 T Worcestershire sauce

2 T anar dana (dried pomegranate seeds; Trader Joe's has them in the dried fruit section. If you can't find them sub with dried cranberries)

2 cups grape tomatoes sliced in half or quarters

2.5 t dried mango powder (amchoor; indian markets have it or order it from here)

2.5 t of curry powder (this is my favorite curry for this recipe; Curry - Sri Lankan)

1 t salt

4 T butter, melted and cooled

GARNISH

2 T butter

2 cups of sliced almonds

0.5 t fresh grated nutmeg

0.5 t ground cinnamon

confectioners' sugar

1 Remove the filo dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temp for 30 minutes.

2 Heat the grapeseed oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the shallots, stir for 2 minutes, then add the garlic and ginger. Sauté the ingredients fro a few minutes before adding the chicken, breaking it up with the back of a wooden spoon. Add the Worcestershire sauce, stir, and add the pomegranate seeds. Cook, stirring, over medium-high heat for 15 minutes; if the chicken releases a lot of liquid, continue to heat until the juices evaporate. When the meat has browned and just starts to dry out, add the cherry tomatoes, mango powder, curry powder and salt. Reduce the heat slightly and cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring often. If the chicken starts to stick to the skillet, add a tablespoon or two of water to help the cooking process. When done, remove from the heat and set aside. Preheat the oven to 425˚F.

3 Prepare the filo dough by laying out a dishcloth on a flat surface large enough to accommodate the flat filo sheets. Lay the dough in a stack on the cloth and cover it with another hand towel. With hot water, dampen and wring out a third hand cloth and lay it flat over the top towel.

4 Carefully center 1 sheet of the filo over a 12 inch tart pan (or pie pan if you don't have a tart pan), allowing the ends to drape over the sides and push filo gently down into the pan to crate a reservoir. Brush it with the butter. Take the next sheet and rotate it 45˚ and place it over the last sheet, brush with butter. Repeat with 6 more sheets.

5 Spoon in the chicken filling and fill the pie, smoothing out the filling with the back of the spoon. Center 1 sheet of the filo over the filling, allowing the ends to drape over the sides, and brush it with butter. Take the next sheet and rotate it 45˚ and place it over the last sheet, brush with butter. Repeat with 6 more sheets. Fold the draping corners of the dough to the center, closing the pie. Brush with butter.

6 Bake the pie for 15 min. Remove from the oven and place a flat baking sheet over the pie pan. Carefully flip the pie onto the baking sheet. Brush the to of the pie with butter and back for 10-15 more minutes, until golden brown.

7 For the garnish, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the almonds and cook for 3 minutes. Add the nutmeg and cinnamon, and stir for another 3 min. Remove the pie from the oven and pour the almonds over the top of the pie. Sprinkle the confectioners' sugar through a fine sieve by taping its sides over the whole pie. Let the pie cool or 10-15 min. Serve warm. Serves 6.

Some Stargazing.

2011-06-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

I love Risa D'Angeles. When Josh and I lived in Santa Cruz I never missed a chance to look up what Risa had in store for me that week. Her Astrology is fun and pretty inspiring. I still look it up from time to time on the GTWeekly website and I'm always glad I did. This is what she told me to do this week and I don't think it could be more on the nose if she was my analyst. Thanks, Risa.

Virgo August 23–September 22
Take time to consider what you would like for the future. Create a picture/photo journal depicting how you want your life to be. Begin before your birthday so that when it arrives you have a clear idea of your coming year. Don’t be predictable. Be groundbreaking, inventive and original. Use nothing from the past—no beliefs or plan—to create your possible future. The past needs to be transcended completely.

images: aurora over Norway last year at my birthday, vintage star maps

At Home At Home.

2011-06-19T18:26:00.000-07:00

I have another favorite place to dwell. I found Laure from the photos she has done for Emily. I love her blog. I think her photos of Hazel have made me think... maybe a cat and a dog. Have fun.

images via: Laure

Final Count Down.

2011-06-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Today is my last day at StudioConover. I'm starting a new adventure. We will see where it goes. I don't have super concrete plans. I needed a bit of head space to figure some stuff out. In the mean time I hope I have more time to share on here.

*If you haven't watched Arrested Development the video might seem really weird, but that's the beauty of it.

Stop Motion Goodness.

2011-06-09T11:57:00.000-07:00

Brett turned me on to this. I don't usually see commercials anymore, but this one is fab. I've always thought that makeup was less about making you beautiful and more about collecting colors. Just like when you were a kid and you had no idea what oil painting was about, but you knew that you needed those tubes.

Showing up.

2011-06-07T11:55:00.000-07:00

Showing up for the work. It's something that can be very hard to do. Sometimes our inner blocks are so great that tormenting ourselves seems so much easier than doing the work. Sometimes staying in the now just feels so illusive that we only want to repeat our brain chatter from our past and future selves.

I read The War of Art for a portfolio prep class when I was in school. It's such a great book to pick up and read anytime and anywhere. I have read Do the Work through once. I'm starting a few new ventures and I plan on using it to complete and show up for my muse.

Thanks, Blake for the reminder.

I'm Back, Baby.

2011-05-22T18:35:00.000-07:00

After many so so trips to the flea market (swap meet) I'm happy to say my good luck is back. I had a great day at the flea followed by a walk in the park. Couldn't have planned a better Sunday. Here's my flea market haul-

mint condition coach bag
awesome table cloth with matching napkins. I'm going to use the napkins for napkin like activities, but the table cloth I'm going to use on the beach.
cute teal top
four awesome necklaces

Grain Free Granola.

2011-05-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

I've been a very bad blogger, but you will have to admit I'm a great commenter. I made this granola awhile ago and I've been meaning to post it. I wanted to take pictures of the beautiful canister I put it in, but this morning I officially ate it all. Oops.

I combined a couple of recipes and I think it was super yummy (1, 2). I soaked the nuts and seeds for 6 hours because I just averaged all the soak times from this chart.

All ingredients are raw.

2 cups of sunflower seeds

2 cups of walnuts

2 cups of almonds

1 cup of sesame seeds

1 cup of chia seeds

1 cup of raw shredded coconut

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, or to taste
Generous dash of sea salt
1/2 maple syrup
1/4 cup unrefined coconut oil

Soak all the nuts for 6 hours. Mix the rest of the ingredients together with nuts. Spread out on cookie sheet lined with parchment and put in a 150 degree oven for 6-12 hours.

I know it sounds like a ton of time, but it goes by super fast.

What I Want.

2011-05-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

I want a few things:

No. 1 - I want a new car. The truck is awesome in all of it's 1983 rusted glory. I love driving for free. I love that my friends can borrow it to move all their craigslist adventures. I love that people in their 80,000 dollar cars steer clear of me in my long bed. I also dig the fact that I can leave it unlocked, windows rolled down and pretty much no one bothers it. It's time to move on.

No. 2 - I want to move. I want a place that's a little bigger than the 800 square feet that I live in now. That's not under the flight path (the noise is crazy). I want it to have some yard space, hardwood floors, central air and heat, washer/dryer hook ups, two toilets, room for a jewelry studio space, parking and either room for my portable dishwasher or a dishwasher waiting. I don't want to be stressed out to pay my rent/mortgage. I want to be able to safely run. I want neighbors that I enjoy. Oh, and I want a hood over my gas stove. All that olive oil flying all over is a little gross.

I have some of this at the place that I now resided but I'm under the flight path and it's time to leave for my mental and physical health. I can't tell you how stressful it is to have your thoughts constantly interrupted by planes. Plus jet fuel dumping over your house is kind of a deal breaker.

No. 3 - I want to go on adventures. I used to go on adventures all the time. I haven't in quite some time. I miss it terribly. I'm ready and willing.

In order to make all these things I want to come into reality I'm willing to be grateful for what I have, work hard and except the good.

images via: wildfox, focus, poppytalk, desire to inspire, studio g, sunset, design files.

Future's So Bright.

2011-05-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

I have been addicted to Ray-Ban since I was a wee kid. I have 3 pair (wayfarers, aviators and club masters) on my tray and 2 pair of knock offs. I used to get my fix from my eye doctor that would put a slight script in so that I could get a new pair every year for the cost of a minimal copay.

I'm about to add some cheap sunnies to that tray. OC Shades are fun and cheap. Check them out.

My Mom and Dad.

2011-04-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

My parents weren't married long. They got married very young and had me 3 years later and were divorced before I remembered them together, but I always loved looking at these old wedding pictures of them. They look so cute. If any young brides out there need veil inspiration this is quite a veil.

Bossypants.

2011-04-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

I love Audible. It is the best when I have production work to do. I also like to listen to books when I'm cooking.

Last week I bought Bossypants. I think this maybe the best way to experience this book. Tina Fey is so funny and listening to her tell her story made me bust out laughing.

Ever since I listened to this book I've been thinking about it. Tina is very relatable. Especially if you grew up with brown hair in the 70's. I laughed so hard at her yellow hair talk.

image: came with the pdf from the book (photographed by Ramona Rosales). also as a side note: Tina claims this is the best photoshop job that has ever been done on her and I can see why.

My New Roots.

2011-04-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

My New Roots - How to Cook Quinoa from My New Roots on Vimeo.

After cutting back on carbs for over a year now I think I'm done. I am going to trust that my body knows what it wants. It's not like I have ever had a junk food problem. The closest I would come to that would be eating an entire fruit bowl full of fruit in one sitting.

I started gaining weight when I went back to school and wasn't running as much. It was innocent enough (5 pounds). Then I scored a studio job. Running took a further back seat. More weight, so I thought I could control it with my diet. Wrong. Man my body is stubborn. It's almost as obstinate as my mind is.

Anyway, I'm cooking up some Quinoa. I love it. Been enjoying it for years. When Josh started getting migraines I swapped couscous for quinoa. They translated perfectly.

I just found My New Roots and she just started a video series. Perfect inspiration to start a lovely day.

Produce for Sale.

2011-04-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

If these signs weren't $400 a piece one would for sure live in my kitchen.

images via: wary meyers

Keep On Your Mean Side.

2011-04-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

I'm going to see The Kills tonight at the House of Blues. I can't wait. Have a great weekend.

Missoni for the other 99% of us.

2011-04-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

I love Stacia (Except for the music that plays on her web site. When will people learn?). I consider it Missoni for the poor. I used to pick up pieces from her collections from Kate Ross, but since Kate has closed her store I don't know where to find her stuff locally.

Everything I have from Stacia I've had for years and I have loved it so much. I'm thinking of adding this poncho to my collection.

image via: stacia

Seed Packets.

2011-04-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

How cool is this? The Smithsonian Library's 'Digital Library' has this amazing Seed Catalog section. There you can find so much inspiration (typography, illustration, texture). I had the best time looking at this stuff and I didn't even get to the Sewing Machines: Historical Trade Literature in Smithsonian Collections or Instruments for Science: Scientific Instrument Trade Literature.

Suit Up.

2011-04-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

I know these seem all over the place, but that's just how I roll. I love one pieces, bikinis, new, vintage and everything in between. If swimwear wasn't so expensive I would have 5 new suits every summer. Also, I would like the lifestyle that includes living in your swimsuit.

images via: anthropologie, net-a-porter, jcrew

String Garden DIY.

2011-04-11T07:00:00.001-07:00

I've been obsessed with String Gardens ever since I pinned one on Pinterest. So you can imagine how excited I was when Design Sponge did a DIY version. I can't wait to do this in my bathroom. If any of you follow suit I would love to see it.

images via: String Garden, Design Sponge

New Recipes I've Been Trying.

2011-04-09T11:33:00.000-07:00

I know I've been MIA, but I'm sure it hasn't effected you all much. I've been busy as usual. I actually hate telling people that I'm busy. It usually means that I'm a bit frantic and I am not at all sure of how I've been spending my time.

I have been really enjoying some new to me recipes that I've found around the web:

Indian Spiced Potato Chip Sticks. Baked, not Fried. By Veggie Belly.
Grilled Balsamic-Garlic Crusted Pork Tenderloins. By KitchenConfidante.
Sausage, Chard, and Lemon Lasagna. By Martha Stewart.
Egg Sandwich with Spinach, Brie and Maple Bacon. By Framed Cook.

The Balsamic-Garlic I put on chicken and portabella mushrooms and loved it. I also made the Indonesian Pork Tenderloin from Kitchen Confidante. I used chicken sausage and fresh pasta from Assenti's for the lasagna. I also switched out the chard for dark kale.

Josh hates chard, so I switched to the negro kale because it's more mild. He asked me what I was making and I told him lasagna. When I took it out of the oven he exclaimed " that's white, you can't call that lasagna." He got over it, but it may be a little bit before I can make it again.

I'm trying to build up the nerve to attempt the whole fish. I've tried it before and failed, but that was a few years ago.

images via: from top left to bottom right. me, veggie belly, the selby, framed cook.

Life on the Balcony.

2011-03-17T12:23:00.000-07:00

I just discovered this blog through Pinterest (I'm over there a lot). I want to do some of the projects that they have highlighted. The ladies do a great job of picking plants and using space. Enjoy.

image via: life on the balcony

I Want My DutchTub 4P.

2011-03-07T08:48:00.000-08:00

I love everything about the DutchTub 4P. You can cook on it for heaven's sake.

I'm especially attracted to the lifestyle that would go along with having a DutchTub. Here's how I see it:

You would need the outbuilding to store the tub when it wasn't in use.
Extended time off to go out into the woods to enjoy different locations for your tub.
Chickens!
The expendable income to blow $6000 plus on a wood burning, yet amazingly light hot tub.

Sign me up.

images/video via: Weltevree

Joie 2011.

2011-03-06T13:31:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about some of the things that I would like to land in my Spring/Summer wardrobe. There are some nice pieces over at Joie. I have owned some things from them in the past and I wore them out.

Here's hoping we actually have a Summer this year in San Diego. I know that most of you are freezing your butts off this winter, but last Summer was cold and cloudy and I never really got over it. I still feel betrayed.

Weekends.

2011-03-02T08:49:00.000-08:00

I've been making jewelry on my weekends. I have been really wanting my own studio space ever since I've been creating at the Craft Center at UCSD. Amazing. They have it all and I want it all.

Good Bye, Doyald.

2011-03-01T10:14:00.000-08:00

What an amazing legacy Doyald Young has left behind. I will miss seeing him and laughing with him. He was a iconic figure that was so down to earth and matter a fact. He frequented San Diego AIGA events and told the best stories.

I had the extreme pleasure of exchanging emails with him regarding a limited edition poetry book that I was working on. He had no problem with me telling him that I was inspired by his classic cartouche to make a logo for sex, drugs, rock and roll. He taught me to get off the computer and trust myself more. I'm so grateful for his help and expertise. I will miss his stories of groupies wanting him to sign their chests and his youthful exploits.

Dropped Call?

2011-03-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

Mos def. I dropped my iphone in the toilet at work. No sadder words have been typed. I think it's going to be ok, but some of the pictures that I took this weekend might take awhile to get on here. Lucky thing the toilet had just been cleaned and I didn't pee on it. The back pocket is no place for a phone.

I did make Kristina's Buttermilk Flax Pancakes this weekend. They were so amazing that I had them for breakfast and lunch on Saturday. I made a couple of tweaks.

I used 2TB melted ghee and 2TB coconut oil in the batter instead of the butter.
I used lactose free kefir instead of buttermilk.
I also added bananas.
I fried them in coconut oil.
I put sliced raw almonds over the top and served with maple syrup/raw honey blend.

Man, can I fit another I statement into this post?

Next time I think I might try chia seeds and see if they work as well as the flax. Josh and I are both hooked.

Layer.

2011-02-28T08:38:00.000-08:00

I know that there has been a ton of buzz around Emily Henderson and her new show on HGTV Secrets of a Stylist. I watched the teaser of the hour long special that she did with her friend the co-creator of Glee.

Her process is awesome. It's such a great way to help people get out of their own way and really choose what they will love. Plus she is so authentic, which is rare for television.

I want to see more of the show, but alas I don't have HGTV, so I will have to wait and see what is posted on Emily's blog and around the web.

images via: apartment therapy

Alma Allen.

2011-02-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

Thank you to The Brick House for pointing me over to Alma Allen. I have always loved those handles on the entry to the Ace Palm Springs and now I know who was behind them.

I have had his blog open in a tab for... I don't know... 2 weeks now. I keep peeking back over. I love his collaborative work and the wood meets brass. I 've been working with brass lately in jewelry making, but these massive pieces are really inspiring me.

images via: Alma Allen

Cut & Paste sfgirlbybay Inspired.

2011-02-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

I have been cutting stuff out of magazines for years. It's slowed down since a lot of my favorites have stopped being produced, but I still do it. I'm a little scared to cut up some of my favorites, so now I have quite a few piling up. I saw a post awhile back by Victoria and I wanted to share mine too.

It's super fun looking back at stuff I cut out 8 years ago that I'm still in love with.

Keepsakes.

2011-02-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

I'm kind of in love with these glass and enameled lockets. I think they would make such a nice gift. I'm also enamored with the star locket, but it's way out of my price range.

images: hexagon locket (you can get them here for half the cost. not as glamorous.), trapezoid locket, enameled lockets, diamond star locket.

Ad Hoc: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

2011-02-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

I don't know why it had taken me so long to post this. It might be that I've just recovered from all the Ad Hoc cooking I did at the beginning of the year.

The fried chicken was the 4th dish I made from the cookbook and I think it was the best so far. It's a 2 day process, but I think it's one worth attempting a few times a year. Keller says " Fried chicken is a great American tradition that's fallen out of favor. A taste of this and you will want it back in your weekly routine." I wouldn't go that far. The flavor is amazing, but the clean up and process is a bit much for a weekly routine. You can see someone doesn't have to clean up after he cooks.

I used grapeseed oil instead of the peanut or canola that was suggested and I really like the results.

Above are the photos of the whole process. Cutting down, brining, double breading and frying. The bottom photo is the mexican chocolate covered rice crispy treats that my sister brought for dessert. You can see why I might be on a low carb diet now ;)

Japanese Sushi Candy.

2011-02-08T11:02:00.000-08:00

I've seen this at Mitsuwa. I've been crazy curious, but I didn't want to by sugar/plastic for the hell of it.

I would have gone crazy for this when I was a kid. I loved kits and making stuff. This kicks the easy bake oven's butt.

Workin'

2011-01-31T08:30:00.000-08:00

Sean and I are working on some packaging for whiskey. It's been really fun. Work, but fun. It gives one an excuse to drink directly from the bottle.

I've jumped around my office banging my head to Pixies and it didn't scare him a bit. A good sign of a partner.

I'll let you know how it goes. Hopefully I will have time this week to post some stuff from... a month ago. How lame is that?

image via: the fancy

Alie & Georgia Present.

2011-01-27T07:56:00.000-08:00

My friend Wendy introduced me to Alie and Georgia. I love it. Enjoy.

Tiny Inspirationals. 02. + mini fast

2011-01-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

I'm doing a media fast for the week. This is a little cheat, but I know you won't hold it against me.

I'll be back next week with my adventures in Ad Hoc at Home. Until then I leave you with a quote from Abraham Lincoln. "Always bear in mind that your resolution to succeed is more important than any one thing."

Tiny Inspirationals. 01.

2011-01-06T08:26:00.000-08:00

I have saved small pieces of paper for most of my life. I don't know if it's all because I was born year of the ox, which is ruled by paper or if it's my fascination for mini things. Either way I have an addiction.

It started with hello kitty eraser wrappers, then fruit striped gum patterns, fortune cookie fortunes, good earth tea ends, then yogi tea. On any given day you will find one of these around my place, so I thought this year I would share a few.

Here's the first one and I don't think it could be more true.

Checking Stuff Off.

2011-01-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to add some personality to this blog since I started it four years ago. It's one of those things that I never got to...until now.

I'm always amazed that the stuff we put off is always much harder in our heads than the reality of just doing it. I had fun. It took me a couple of hours, but it won't be nagging me anymore.

The reason I have a photo of some Nike's up here is because I'm never unhappy that I went on a run, but the mental beating I give myself before hand would make anyone cry. The cranial thrashing I gave myself on this was hell, but the reality...not so bad. I got to watercolor and play with type. I love that stuff.

Now if I could only check that lesson off my list. (toothy grin)

image via: pup n taco

Mexican Christmas Dinner.

2011-01-02T17:16:00.000-08:00

We suspect that this will be one of the last Christmases close to the boarder for some of our friends, so I decided to make this Christmas dinner Mexican.

My sister had sent me this menu. I already had a ham, so I added this Bourbon Glazed Ham with Tangerine Chutney to the menu. Only I substituted Rum for the Bourbon. I also left the Ham out of the Corn Pudding because it seemed like over kill. I couldn't find the poblano chiles so I used some anchos and one serrano sans seeds for the pudding as well.

Everything was amazing. My only complaint would be burning my finger making the Molé, but it was so worth it. I'm thinking of getting another ham because it was so good and Josh keeps requesting the corn pudding.

We had a ton of leftovers, but nothing went to waste. I made Mexican Pot Pie with the turkey and sandwiches galore. I used the ham bone in soup. I poured the marinated mushrooms over chicken and baked it. It was amazing. I've used the chutney on everything. I still have mole left, but that's about it.

I highly recommend this menu. It was amazing.

Happy New Year.

2010-12-31T10:04:00.000-08:00

This is what my house has looked like over the holidays. I lost some pictures on my iphone, so this is what's left. I still don't have my cards out. I found out I was getting time off work hours before I left on the Wednesday before Christmas. It didn't leave much time for planning.

So when I got home I started making the garland you see up above. It was fun to put together. I used some tshirt transfer paper to make the peace and joy portion on linen. Then I sewed it to some wool yarn I bought at Anthropologie. Then I wrapped up all the presents I had been hiding around the house.

Christmas Eve I went shopping for Christmas dinner. We had a Mexican Christmas dinner from an epicurious menu. I will share that with you a little later. We have been eating the leftovers all week.

New Year: Ad Hoc

2010-12-30T16:08:00.000-08:00

I cook a lot. Meaning I cook dinner for my husband, Josh, and the occasional straggler 27 out of 30 days a month. I eat out about once a week for lunch, but most days I come home and wolf down leftovers or I whip something up. Sometimes it's fancy and sometimes not.

I've been eyeing Ad Hoc for awhile, then my friend, Sean, said that he was going to start cooking out of it and I could borrow it whenever I wanted. Lucky me for Christmas my Mom sent it to me. I've been reading it ever since. I decided that this year I'm going to cook my way through it.

It won't be a Julie and Julia moment. First of all I don't want to cook straight though it. Second expect me to cheat. Like when I read the Beef Stock recipe and after an hour of roasting the bones and charring the onion you boil it for 5 hours. Skimming often. I decided right then that I would be purchasing beef stock and if the recipe wasn't fantastic and I thought it needed a 7 hour beef stock I will do it on the second attempt. I promise that if I ever open a restaurant it will be fresh stock, but since Josh hasn't put me on all day staff the boxed stuff will do.

I'm a pretty busy person, so it might only be a recipe a week, but I promise to keep you posted.

Here's to my waistline...let's hope I have one at the end of this.

This Week's Menu:
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Braised Beef Short Ribs
Marinated Skirt Steak
Chicken Soup with Dumplings
Fall Salad
Little Gem Lettuce Salad

My weekend.

2010-12-20T11:24:00.000-08:00

I spent my weekend with a great kid. Finn was so much fun. We got to spend this time together because his parents produced another great kid. Amazing little/big Bodhi. Weighing in at 9.1 lbs.

I don't know where his mother was smuggling 9 lbs, but he's quite a cute newborn.

Tunnel Vision.

2010-12-01T08:37:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like you have so much to do that you are waiting for each day to pass so that you will be closer to a day when you can relax? Most of the stuff you are doing you are doing by choice and you want to participate. Designing, celebrating, reconnecting, etc, but it's so much.

I don't get much time off and when I'm working I'm going balls to the wall most of the time, so I really look forward to doing nothing. The 11th is the next day when I will get the pleasure of doing nothing. Here's hoping that I keep it that way.

Image Via: DesignVerb

Super Brain Yoga.

2010-11-30T08:07:00.000-08:00

I love yoga. There are so many facets to it. I enjoy flow yoga. I have a hard time making habits that I stick to, so sometimes yoga gets postponed. It doesn't mean I don't miss it when it does.

Today I found this video on Super Brain Yoga via Vital Juice. I just did it and you know what? I feel a difference in blood flow. How cool is that? If I can just stop opening the fridge when I meant to open the dishwasher I will be happy. Check it out and try it out. It might just brighten your day.

image via: bibliodyssey

Factory 20.

2010-11-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

I love industrial stuff. This site is so awesome. Machine Age stuff mixed with Modern and Rustic makes me happy. Drool over at Factory 20.

2010-11-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

Another blog discovery for your week. I've been really enjoying Chantelle Grady's blog, Little Things. She has great taste in food and design. I will make this pasta this week.

Restless General Store.

2010-11-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

What a perfectly curated Etsy shop. I ordered some stuff. I love the photos too. Get over and check out Restless General Store.

White Plate.

2010-11-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

An amazing food blog. White Plate. You have to go check it out. I'm totally making these pierogi.

The Rest of the Party. Part 2.

2010-11-16T08:39:00.000-08:00

Food and the Favors.

The Ginger Scone recipe from the fabulous Melanie.
Pumpkin Cheese Cake adapted from Ohdeedoh.
Baked Eggs Two Ways from What Katie Ate.
Favors were Sappo Hill Soaps in almond and oatmeal that I wrapped up and tagged. They were a big hit. I love those soaps.

And there you have it. A nice morning/afternoon spent with friends welcoming a new little love into our lives.

The Rest of the Party. Part 1.

2010-11-16T08:23:00.000-08:00

I made these Feather Toppers on my lunch break. They were super easy and fun. Since we had a loose theme of nesting I think they worked out nicely. I have a couple extra pictures of the pom pom decor too.

The food was the star. A few of us pitched in and it was yummy. Caley made the apple pie with cheddar crust. She didn't use the Gourmet recipe because she thought she could do better. I'll post it when I get it from her.

Pom Poms.

2010-11-15T08:11:00.000-08:00

I bought one of these pom pom makers from Amazon. I had so much fun with it. The directions are terrible, but you can figure it out fast enough. I used cotton and wool yarn with muslin fabric.

The photos of the party are not very good because we were all chatting and having a good time. I guess that's better than perfect photos and no one had any fun.

Colleen is going to hang the branch in the baby's room, so it was completely worth the work. I have a few more details that I'll post tomorrow.