Birds and Seashells

Where do they go?

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

This might be the most delightful idea I've ever seen.
And I have the clothespins.

All I really want

2012-01-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

is for my kids to know that each of them is, in fact, my favorite.
And they are.

A profound sadness

2012-01-23T05:54:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, doing the right thing doesn't go so very well and you end up with the wrong outcome. We found ourselves, as a family, involved in just this yesterday afternoon as we tried to help a stray dog find his home.

Friends comfort me that this occurrence is a good life lesson. I don't know. I do know that we're all shaken and my youngest, who had her eyes glued to the dog is broken in heart and in spirit right now. I also know that it's my job to teach her to be OK with being sad and not to "forget about it and be happy." Until she's ready.

Parenting doesn't offer a door out of the tough situations.

...a little sadness in our lives...

2012-01-19T06:29:00.000-08:00

This guy is my pal. A big, noble German Shepherd who never grew to be as big as his feet portended.

He lost his best friend this week. The dog we called his uncle, Andrew, was sent off to the doggy fields of doggy heaven. He was failing badly in a battle with a couple of cancers and when he could no longer move or get a good breath, my mom, his person, had to make the hard decision to let him go.

All of us were taken by Andrew. His love was huge and he had an uncanny ability to understand and respond to hundreds of words, which allowed him access to places and people a lot of dogs would never see or know. He went to church with Mom all the time. Not just on Sunday, but to her after school ministry program where he helped teach 4th graders, who would sit quietly and wait for their turn to pet or hug him, to her seniors group and to the massive week called VBS where over 300 kids gather.

I get that choking tear each time I think about the hundreds of kids who knew my mom and called her "Grama" because of how the two of them, Grama and Andrew, traveled, worked and loved as a team.

Andrew was not spared the humility of dressing up for every holiday and each "crazy day" at Vacation Bible School. He attended every Keenagers meeting to get treats and give kisses, especially when it involved the ladies. He visited an ailing friend from the group when at 98 she was failing in her senior citizen home. He sat at her side, she with her hand on him, knowing deep inside that he was there for her. She later told him so.

Our boy waited at the window any time we uttered the happy words, "Go watch for Grama and Andrew." The two dogs would nuzzle and sniff and run to the yard for what in earlier years was hard play and in recent years was just a walk around. My Max would try to get some tug of war or chase going, but Andrew wasn't really up for too much of that. He didn't make it here at Christmastime. He'd begun to refuse the ramp Mom bought for the backseat of her car. Falling once when his skinny leg missed the platform was enough for him. So, the longer goodbye started a couple of months ago.

Mom's house is quiet for a while. There's another companion dog in the wings, but she needs a while to restore and to grieve her best pal (we're with her). She's going to miss the dog who got her up if she was thinking about sleeping in, and went to bed at 10:30 with or without her. Who walked the grocery store and went to church. The one who picked up anything she dropped, got his leash, put his head down to pray when others were doing so and just gave such an expression of love to those who really needed it.

We'll all miss him, this one of kind guy and we're holding our own pooch a little closer today as we recognize what a blessing it is to share our lives with a dog.

Every now and again...

2012-01-14T11:35:00.000-08:00

...a point of view I need to recall.

You?

Really?

2012-01-11T18:52:00.000-08:00

I know their named after Mr. Bacon, but it just makes me giggle. Like all you need is a tomato and maybe some toast?

Budgeting

2012-01-10T05:59:00.000-08:00

Yes, maybe we should be discussing budgeting. Budgeting all of it, time, money, space, life -- and all with the hope of creating margins. My friend Barb posted this regarding the Congressional Budget:

Sure I concur, we need to change this now.
And I have to admit that I can make some changes too.

How's your budgeting done?

The last bits of Christmas

2012-01-07T07:21:00.000-08:00

We're on the last leg today. The tree is gone, the ornaments careful nestled into tissue and to their nooks and crannies in boxes. Today the house lights will come down* and I'll finally gather and sort all the things that need to be in the big gift wrap box and away it will go until next year. (Perhaps next year I'll share all the things I love gathering for gift wrapping purposes.)

I love beautiful ribbon and well considered wrapping and tags. This year I found the most beautiful tags at Blossom & Twig on Etsy.

These:

This pretty red bird,

and this fellow with his crown.

Oh! And these three:

Pears

God Bless Us

Stickers

I purchased a few for next year and look forward to using them. When they arrived in the crafted envelope I was excited and even more excited to find such gracious packaging inside -- I felt like I'd received a gift rather than receiving a purchase.

So before the Lovely Season of Christmas, it's joy, it's busyness and the brilliant Spirit we celebrate is behind us, I say go and gather for next year.

Me? I shall do as Charles Dickens and "honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year."

*My neighbor John, who left for Thailand with friends with his Christmas lights on a timer and doesn't come home until Monday will win the leaving-the-lights-on-longest competition this year!

She can shoot

2012-01-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

My youngest has taken to shooting.

And she seems to have the composition gene.

A moment of realizing.

2012-01-02T15:37:00.000-08:00

We were simply sitting on the deck at Joan and Ed's enjoying our New Year's Brunch.

The conversation, the food and the gorgeous California canyon Sunday was just perfect and wonderful. As was the company of these three little families who've been growing a friendship with great intent for fifteen or so years.

And suddenly in the calm of the whir of enjoyment, I was arrested by the absolute beauty of the child sitting across from me. The sight stopped my musings and gave me pause -- and a small gift.

It was a stunning realization. These kiddos we trap in our mind at different ages and moments are so far from the little ones we carried in Bjorns and carted everywhere on Group adventures.

They've moved into a launch space. On that bridge we have to walk them across, sometimes close behind, sometimes right next to and then, too, at a painful and encouraging distance. This one, this child, not my own, but of my heart and woven into the fabric of my life and the lives of my family, made me see. These beautiful, talented, interesting and interested people are moving quickly into their own.

And there really is not so much else to say.

A Lovely New Tradition

2012-01-01T07:41:00.000-08:00

Somewhere, mid month, my daughter suggested we have secret Hannukah pals and give a gift to this secret pal on the last night of Hannukah. (I'll admit that growing up, I too wanted "in" on the eight presents my friend Richie Fienberg was getting while I just had Christmas.)

So we just jumped in. She had us picking names and agreeing to shop in a flash. We didn't quite get everything together for 8th night and decided instead to make it a New Year's Eve idea.

What fun! A little surprise for the ones we love. I picked up a new release DVD for my movie loving husband. My sweet girl found a journal for me and darling necklace with a bird.

I especially liked the idea that there was no real expectation of any kind and in some ways, we could give something we knew someone might have wanted for Christmas, but didn't get. It isn't refined, but the idea of having a secret anyone to give gifts to in our little family is a big joy to me.

How about you? What New Years Eve traditions do you have? How do you make the night significant?

And again, I wish you the happiest of new years in 2012.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T08:12:00.000-08:00

Wishing you great joy and wonder in the coming year.

The Gift at Christmas: Christmas around the world.

2011-12-27T07:37:00.001-08:00

I suggest you enjoy this as I did.
Such rich pictures. You'll almost think you traveled.

Enjoy!

The Gift at Christmas: Being together

2011-12-25T06:23:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve is had in my home. My sister and her kiddos come along as does my mom and of course, the four of us look forward to it. But no one as much as me. The house is at its best with shining lights and lots of glowing candles. Orderly with minimal clutter and a settledness. It is only time to celebrate.

Somehow we've always, for as long as I can recall, had an Italian dinner. Before kids, it was an elaborate fish chowder on the lines of Cioppino (but with no mussels or calamari and with chopped potato). Then, when the kiddos were little, it was the fancy pizza and pasta from our long gone but well remembered Ferraros. (I don't know why, but I was shocked and thrilled to find they were open and cooking. The woman who took my order over the phone was so sweet. I asked if they did to go orders on Christmas Eve and she said in her thick Italian accent, "Of course, we're here so you can enjoy and not work so hard." Instant tradition.)

It's evolved back to home cooking, and last night we dined on ham, some spaghettini with pesto, a Caesar with anchovies and garlic bread. We enjoyed. We laughed. We relaxed. And even as the night grew old and the teens and preteens had us playing a game no one could catch on to, no one wanted it to end.

It is simply the gift of Christmas, just being and being together.

The Gifts, at Christmas: Humility

2011-12-24T07:02:00.000-08:00

I came across this writing on a 3 x 5 card. I think I recognize the long hand as my Great Grandmother, Bama with a notation by her daughter and my Grandmother, Gommie. Good words.

Humility

"Humility is perpetual quietness of heart. It is to have no trouble. It is never to be fretted or vexed, irritable or sore; to wonder at nothing that is done to me; to feel nothing done against me. It is to be at rest when nobody praises me, and when I am blamed or despised it is to have a blessed home in myself where I can go in and shut the door and kneel to my father in secret and be at peace, as in a deep sea of calmness when all around and about is trouble."

the notation:
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hands of God that he may exalt you in due time casting all your care upon him, for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant. I Pet. 5:6-7-8

They were thinking and wrestling with things I care about deeply.
The gift might also be exploration.

I still love this guy

2011-12-21T05:30:00.000-08:00

I have to say, I love all that this behollied man conjures.
And I love the truth, that Saint Nicholas gave of his fortunes and inspired the dream.
We're days away from the story of his visiting and I can hear my youngest recanting the story that we just need to believe in him.

This year, the spirit of giving has really hit me as I've thought about the gifts I am giving and want to give to my friends and my family. It's been fun and challenging and very freeing.

So maybe the way I believe in Santa, is in the sense of expressing myself to in giving to and for others. However it is, I find myself just a little more grateful and aware of the enjoyment.

Christmas Light

2011-12-09T07:54:00.001-08:00

This year, I have a somewhat different urge toward Christmas.

Things are different and interesting and good.

I don't feel like I need to bring out all the boxes of decorations and haven't put the traditional pieces in every nook and cranny.

I also notice that not every house in the neighborhood has lights. We're all experiencing the new economy, the new way of taking in the world and our response is lighter, different and maybe even simpler.

For me, it's more honest and grounded. More of Advent stillness and anticipation.

I don't know quite what to make of it. And I like it.

It's always about perspective, isn't it/?

2011-10-20T14:24:00.000-07:00

I don't know Mary Anne Rodmacher, but I wish she'd said this a little earlier in my life.

Happier than.

2011-10-17T07:40:00.000-07:00

Abraham Lincoln said something about most people being as happy as they choose to be. I think the thought is right. I'm not really up for circumstances determining the condition of my heart. I'll be very happy to take responsibility for that.

So today, I'm just thrilled to take this little -ism, enjoy the wink that comes with it and remember who I am - a gal who really is filled with joy and peace.

You too!

imposing thought

2011-10-15T16:23:00.000-07:00

It is such an honest and wonderful truth.
And, there are people who demand the more from us.
What if we could be inspired by this thought, rather than being threatened?
How much more interdependent and powerful we could be.

I've taken an interest in Pinterest

2011-10-11T08:04:00.000-07:00

Pinterest.
Pictures.
Sorting.
Categorizing.
Friends.

What's not to like?

I have spent more than a couple of hours in the last few days creating boards, searching, browsing, enjoying.

How about you?

In love with the Sandwich King

2011-10-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

I have to say, we're all kind of loving The Sandwich King and his recipes are so good.

Have you checked him out on the Food Network?

Another thought on Steve Jobs

2011-10-08T06:56:00.000-07:00

“Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask creative people how they did something, they feel a little guilty because they didn’t really do it, they just saw something. It seemed obvious to them after a while. That’s because they were able to connect experiences they’ve had and synthesize new things. And the reason they were able to do that was that they’ve had more experiences or they have thought more about their experiences than other people.

“Unfortunately, that’s too rare a commodity. A lot of people in our industry haven’t had very diverse experiences. So they don’t have enough dots to connect, and they end up with very linear solutions without a broad perspective on the problem. The broader one’s understanding of the human experience, the better design we will have." - Steve Jobs, 1996 WIRED MAGAZINE

It is my opinion, largely because I've experienced a life filled with creative people, that yes, creatives see things and connect them, but the highly creative person has something beyond experiences and one like Steve Jobs has much more than just vision.

Again, I am grateful to be in this era of creativity and design.

Gracious Grace.

2011-10-06T08:16:00.000-07:00

What else must be said?

I live in Grace.

Young House Love rocks!

2011-10-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

Do you need a little joyful jug like this?
Well then, you really must see this blog.

And, these adorable self-titled DIY dorks have fabby things on sale at Joss & Main in a curated collection of well-priced fun.
Go see.

We share the gifts.

2011-09-23T08:48:00.000-07:00

My friend Suze found this shell and sent it via FB.
Thoughtful gestures can make your day.

More of the twins and I'm not apologizing!

2011-09-17T19:11:00.000-07:00

So far, I think this fascination is normal. Let me know if I carry on too long.

I just can't!

2011-09-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

I can't share a new thought. I'm too busy laughing with the twins!

Late to the Party and happy as a clam

2011-09-14T05:25:00.001-07:00

I just found this video and I have to say, they're the poster boys for having twins! Cute. Cute. Cute.

And Ellen had some good fun with them, too:

It's nice to be back, thank you!

Judging a book by the cover.

2011-08-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

Yes you can and I did.
Who would put a pint of Sea Salt Caramel gelato in such an interesting (screw top) container like this and make such a simple, pleasing label and not make it also wonderful to the tongue?
I judged well and I will have to look into what ever other flavors Talenti has for me.
Sea Salt Caramel was a good first try.

How to improve cleaning your room. Add a tutu.

2011-08-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

Oh, and perhaps, go back inside and finish.

A new love. (His name is Tim.)

2011-08-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Driving home Sunday night from little Jacky's birthday party I was all alone with KUSC and heard the revelation of Tim Andres.
I am head over heels in love.
And this is just a little part of why:

Steve Jobs, “Computers are like a bicycle for our minds.”

2011-08-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

I am so moved by all that Steve Jobs has brought to our lifetime.
And I'm thrilled for every moment he thinks different.

The Farmers Market Day: People

2011-07-29T02:08:00.000-07:00

There was such a beautiful mix of people. The serious culinary shopper -- they are the wholesale purchasers who can buy before 8:30. Spotting the perfect onion.

A farmer from a family of farmers.

The chanteuse singing in lovely French with her somewhat illusive guitar.

I so love being in the midst of the crowd as well as I do stopping to notice the details swimming around me.

And you?

The Farmers Market Day: Flowers

2011-07-28T07:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I made a wonderful trip to the Santa Monica Farmer's Market. I promise to tell the whole story, right down to the grilled purple scallions we had for dinner.

But for now, for you, a few flowers:

It was almost impossible to walk away from the vibrant fragrance, life and color at just these stands.
Do you have a favorite?

The Intruder

2011-07-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

This morning, I had my first cup of coffee in my garden chair as I read to the middle of MEMORIES OF RUNNING, by Bruce McLarty. I was up, oh so very early, and brewed the cup and took to the seat at first light. I traveled with Smithy to New York and listened to the old artist lady describing Art and Light and repeating, "That's Omega there. That's God's work," as she wandered off. I was engrossed in good writing, the good use of good words, and each time I'd reach for a big swig, I'd notice pieces of lovely in my garden.

The easing of the paint along the arm of my chair.

My pal's resting position.

The slight turning of the rose petal.

The shifting light from the candle in the blue-gray of morning.

And then: the intruder.

The sun.

I don't think I've ever been unhappy with the sun peeking over the rooftop. But there it was with all it's light and warmth, beckoning for the day to start in earnest. But it had started, in the perfect way, with the chair and the book and the dog and the coffee and the time. There it was. Time.

I recognize I'm pushed to consider how I will spend my time this day. It look's like its time to fill my list with things (like working) that must be done. But this morning, in the early moments, I felt the fullness of what my soul desires: transporting words, the stillness of time, the coolness of morning, the beauty of Creation right in my yard, the work of a little black spider at his web within arms length and, without working to connect to God in scripture or text, just being in the midst of all He's granted, I am filled.

I'm even accepting the trickling light the intruder supplies as it dancing across my table.

Morning is changeable, I realize. The cool, the warmth, now the breeze. The waking birds are coming to peruse and a barking dog around the block is joining.

It must be time for a second cup.

The Ceiling of Complexity

2011-07-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

I'm learning a little about this concept - the Ceiling of Complexity. From what I've read, it has to do with the number of things we have on our plate and the way they match up with our strengths. When we hit the ceiling, it's often related to a) too much and b) a weakness. In business, we're best working in our strengths and delegating the weaknesses.
At home, if you're the wife or mother, you just keep folding laundry and reorganizing the _______ (insert your favorite, pantry? refrig? sock drawer? car, where your children leave their socks?)
So, my regretful frustration (and attendant crabbiness) is due to the ceiling. I need to hire an underling to clean up after my kitchen extravaganzas and to pick up and to make coffee when I just need to work in my strengths: writing, painting, blogging, decorating the mantle, gardening. Ah ha!
There's something here, I don't know quite what yet, but it begins with addressing what I've put on my plate.
Today it includes a little garage clean out.

How's your ceiling?

A very Big Rush

2011-07-23T05:33:00.000-07:00

My youngest asked me in passing a few days ago, if we could get tickets to see Big Time Rush in concert.

I have to say, the fact that the TV show boy band was touring (or really sang on stages) was nowhere near my radar. But we were alone for the weekend and absolutely free on Friday night. So, (with visions of boy bands gone by dancing in my head) my fingers walked the internet and I found a pair of tickets.

There are many joys in momhood and one of the big ones is truly surprising your kiddos. I downloaded the tickets and put them in my laptop bag. And then I waited for the ceremonial asking of the question - again.

A day later, she came through. We were ending our day when she said with just a hint of a whine in her voice, "Mom, is there any way we could look on Craig's List or anything for tickets, I'd really like to see the concert." I asked her when the concert was - she said Friday - I handed her the pages I'd printed out, saying, "Read this, I think it says something about Saturday." It took her a few minutes to connect to what the pages were and then the shocked smile and "REALLY? WE'RE GOING?" Oh, yes.

So we went. We had fabulous orchestra seats amongst 12,000 screaming girls, parents and the occasional kid brother. It was great fun. The boys work really hard and put on a great show. They're well choreographed, but casual and they have tons of personality. But enough about them, the real show was watching my girlie as she kept mentally pinching herself, video taping with her iPod, singing with the boys and saying "Thank you Mommie, this is the best!" We sang along, jumped and clapped to our delight.

A couple of times it really struck me - these moments are few and far between and mark her stepping into the hallway of the teen years. Gratefully, we took the step together. My ears are ringing but as you might imagine, if was quite the rush.

Now, it's off to download the new song and the wallpaper.

Praying to Adopt

2011-07-21T17:54:00.000-07:00

This family is very dear to me. Staci and Anthony and their girls are currently praying to adopt a child and grow their beautiful family.

Feel free to share or post this link to their website, or pass it along to anyone who might be considering adoption.

Seeing

2011-07-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today I started the Revisiting Sanctuaries on-line workshop. (You can too! Go, it's wonderful.) I participated once before and want to dig a bit deeper and join the conversation and fun again. So today, I am seeing. I was specifically looking for something that brought be joy in color and this is it. A little geranium I picked up at Trader Joe's just because I love the color. I'm planting it in my little front garden with the beautiful variegated plant and the big rock.
It's stunning.

My gardens tend to the same color scheme. White and pink with a bit of lavender. So, I'm thrilled for this bold joiner.

So, I must ask: how does your garden grow?

Go See!

2011-07-18T05:11:00.001-07:00

This photography blog.

Fanny. A curious cat, indeed.

2011-07-14T15:59:00.000-07:00

Well, there we were enjoying a front yard barbecue when Fanny, the cat, came upon the condensation dripping from the ice bucket. This is a neighborhood party we enjoyed a week or so ago. And yes, I'll share much more about the fun we have making delicious foods for the grill and the plate. But I simply must share Fanny.

She's a funny cat. I don't qualify as a cat lover. I have, however, loved a couple of cats in my life and Fanny is one of them. (I like the T.S. Elliot kitties, too.) When we have coffee in the garden, she pops out of the front door (or comes out through the window) and joins we gals. On occasion, she's crossed the street and gone two doors down to sit on my front lawn, either waiting or observing. (My big dog is not happy about this.) When you don't acknowledge her, she might hit you. She also marvels at things. You can see her wheels turning. So, this experience was very funny. She walked up onto the porch and found herself under the little table. She felt a drop or two of water on her head and instead of bolting, like most cats, she simply surveyed and finally just drank the drops as they fell on her.

You can't imagine how much fun it is to watch her shenanigans. Unless you're a cat lover. In which case, she's very likely winking at you.

Out of context and yet, lovely

2011-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

The other night I looked out on my neighbor's yard and saw this Liquid Amber leaf. Until the last week, our summer weather has been cool which makes me wonder, am I supposed to keep my thoughts on fall?

It makes sense.
Though I rebel terribly.

Let's go to the beach.
Shall we?

July 9 - A significant date

2011-07-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

So, tonight, my Dear Husband and I will celebrate one gazillion years of dating.
We celebrate every July 9.
Our first date.

A trip to the Santa Monica Enterprise Fish Company.
A chat over Mutiny on the Bounty and an episode of Star Trek.

And here we are a few years later.
We're making plans to take the kids along with us for a night of remembering and celebrating.

Happy first date day, Dear.

The Angelcot Tart

2011-07-08T10:27:00.000-07:00

These Angelcots:

Became this tart:

You can make it, recipe here:

A Garden Party

2011-07-03T08:09:00.000-07:00

Tonight the neighbors will gather on the lawn at John & Mary's for a pre-4th celebration. John will haul his barbecue from the backyard out to the driveway and the various sons will set up tables and chairs. Mary and Marjorie and I will bring out the linens and things and candles, candles, candles and voila! The 3rd of July.

We'll have lots of kids from 6 to 22 and plenty of loud fun.

Mary's yard has a fabulous peach tree that calls for summer enjoyment. We sit under it on weekend mornings for coffee and chatting. It's the relaxing time in my week.

Tonight, each family will bring their own meat and two other contributions. So, I'm thinking of making this Skirt Steak with Chimichuri. My girlie wants Opa Fish and she wants to whip up Aunt Nancy's Apple Pie in a Brown Paper Bag and Aunt Margaret's World Famous Potato Salad.

I have some beautiful Angelcots from Frieda's and think there's an Angelcot tart coming our way. Angelcots might be the perfect apricot. They're new to me and apparently available for a very short window at Ralph's and Trader Joe's. They are white and sweet with a delicate apricot flavor and also a hint of a buttery flavor. I think they'll be wonderful with a pate sucre or puffed pastry and a little creme Anglaise. (You'll find all these recipes and pix over at What Am I Cooking? later in the week. My other darling Mary-friend has a rhubarb sangia recipe up now. Yum. Yum.)

So we will enjoy. And hope your 4th celebrations are great.

Beauty and Paris

2011-07-02T07:05:00.000-07:00

Well, now Paris is calling and I'm not really packed to go.

Jump on my friend Jill's tour of Europe and see these fabulous photos of the City of Lights by Pati Pakulis.

Or go see Midnight in Paris. A love letter to Paris by Woody Allen.

Selena Gomez wants you to take your daughter to see her in Monte Carlo. (It's PG for a couple of reasons. A dialogue will follow.)

The there's always my favorite, Julie and Julia.

And if you want to experience the writers life in Paris, read Janice's Blog live from her adventures at the Seine.

Bonjour!

Rethinking my shoes.

2011-07-01T07:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Bloomingdale's decided to make contact again.

After all these years, they seem to have forgiven me for curtailing my trips to New York and, therefore, our rich relationship. On one of my first trips to NYC, a work pal and I ran out on a lunch break to visit. The little jaunt was exciting and overwhelming and a start of a beautiful relationship.

In their halls and sections and floors, I learned about the many more brands that exist. The ones that never made it to the little rounders in Los Angeles. They had whole sections dedicated to Tahari designs rather than the small rack at my local Bullock's or I. Magnin. It was a visual education, a retailing education, certainly a fashion education and of course, fun. Even if all I bought was a mascara. It was my mascara from Bloomingdales.

And then, I came home and they sent me a catalog where I could buy shoes. Not the shoes at the aforementioned stores, or Nordstrom, but Bloomingdale's collections of shoes. It was all good fun and I managed to grab some unique and simple and beautiful shoes on sale, from Bloomies.

So yesterday was clearly an attempt on their part to rekindle the old romance. And they were successful. I clicked on the email which featured a shoe that took me right here. And right to the shoes. As I clicked through, my youngest took the chair next to me and commented: "You should get some of these. You used to wear cute shoes, but now Mom, they're kinda grandma."

After the initial sting wore off, I gave her a kiss and clicked in earnest. She's right and I knew it. I kinda knew it when we were shoe gawking at the Music Center. I took a little inventory the other day when I cleaned out my closet and saw this mix of older fun heals and, well, Clarks. There's nothing wrong with Clarks. There are plenty of cute styles (kinda). Like these on the right. But the brand is about comfort and I seem to have collected only flat black or brown, which are, in the eyes of my preteen, not cool. So I perused. And clicked. And put many pair into my online Brown Bag. I was encouraged to buy these:

I settled on a slightly lower pair of black patent leather espadrille platforms and some DKNY sandals. Both passed muster and were on a double sale. So, all is well.

I'm revisiting my appreciation of shoes for fun and fashion, giving the heave ho! to shoes in the grandma category and taking Bloomingdales up on their advances. Rekindling the courtship, so to speak.

And so with great expectancy I ask, what's on your feet?

Grace Coddington - The September Issue

2011-06-29T22:07:00.000-07:00

I'm still thinking about the revelation of Grace Coddington in The September Issue - Anna Wintour & the Making of VOGUE. Without going back to the movie, I've been thinking about how real and fabulous and artistic Grace Coddington truly is.

I found this wonderful point of view about her. Though I don't agree at all with the take on Wintour. It's just too easy to disagree with her methods, and miss her dedication and eye.

I'm so interested to learn more about her work, seeing more, noticing more. I found her coffee table book online for $1395. I doubt I'll be picking it up. So now, I'm just looking, looking to take in her work, her view of things, her art.

I'm so inspired by who she appears to be. She's definitely not a Devil Wears Prada clacker, but an aging, been through it and ready for more, down-to-earth professional who understands the facets of the fashion world and has a brilliantly artistic eye and interpretation. What I love about Grace Coddington is that we see, in the documentary a very real, creative genius who sees the art in fashion and provides us a view to see it too.

The September Issue & Anna Wintour

2011-06-28T15:44:00.000-07:00

Over the last few days I've been taking bites out of a documentary I quite enjoyed: The September Issue - Anna Wintour & the making of VOGUE. I'd started by trying to watch The Devil Wears Prada and had the kind folks at Netflix suggest I watch this. I've loved it. Such an interesting look at how an issue -- the big September issue -- of VOGUE is produced. And there was quite a stunning contrast to the fictionalized story in The Devil Wears Prada. Watching Meryl Streep in her turn as the Wintouresque mag editor was such fun but I certainly didn't get the work ethic and pure sense of dedication to perfection I saw in the actual Ms. Wintour.

I plan to watch it again, and thoroughly digest it, but from my first viewing, I walked away with a few of distinct notions:

Wintour is fully dedicated to fashion and the success of her magazine.
Wintour embraces her decisive ability.
Not everyone who works and lives in fashion is glamorous and young. In fact, the woman who stole my heart throughout the piece is Grace Coddington who is wonderful, wonderful, wonderful but neither of the former. Just magnificent and talented and wildly creative and, well, wonderful. I was pleasantly surprised. Enthused and inspired even.

If you care about fashion at all, I recommend you take a peak at it.

Discovering: Green to Grey

2011-06-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well, the kids are growing up, aren't they?

My friend Michelle S. has a songwriter and musician in her teenaged son and here's his song for your enjoyment (and mine).

http://www.facebook.com/pages/From-Green-to-Grey/140884012634826

It makes me just so happy to hear from this recent graduate of the Orange County High School of the Arts. And knowing he's the son of a dear friend makes it extra special.
He has a band.
This is his solo project.

What are you discovering?

Les Mis and an unexpected pleasure.

2011-06-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

I'm blessed to be married to a theatre goer. In our years of dating and marriage, my Dear has made us season ticket holders. First, to the Shubert, then in it's demise, the Geffen and for many years now, the Ahmanson.

Before I share another thought, I have to say, Les Miserables was brilliantly staged. J. Mark McVey as Jean Val Jean sang beyond anyone I've heard on stage. And the death of Eponine at the barricade brought me to tears. My dear friend Michelle (oh I have many) Sharpe heard how technology changed the presentation and it did, magically.

So, the night. Our Saturday night theatre dates almost always include dinner at the Pinot Grill at the Music Center. We love dining al fresco, watching the fantastic mix of theatre and Opera goers passing, the dancing waters between the restaurant and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and, of course, Pinot food. Typically, we get to the complex a bit early, check for ticket upgrades and dine.

But last night the plan was altered by first a postcard message about the sold out status of the play and a follow-up email about traffic and timing. My Dear wasn't interested in seeing the play again. (He continues to savor the Shubert version, maybe that's because Tom Hanks and his little girl sat in front of us.) My youngest became my delightful theatre companion. She's very interested in musical theatre and singing and loved taking Dad's ticket.

When we arrived at the Grill we were stunned. The tables were full and there were lots and lots of people waiting in line. We put our name in for our 25 minute wait and sat to watch the people. There was much to see. In her preteen status, my lovely and I had gone shopping for "appropriate" shoes and were watching and measuring at all the fantastic and fantastically high heels on people who could and couldn't command them. It was great fun.

Notably, we saw lots of people in beige or beige patent leather espadrilles, lots of shoes with zippers up the back and these:

We found ourselves completely captivated by a beautiful woman in her late 50s/early 60s who made quite an entrance dressed in black with a gorgeous gray bob, Edith Head sun glasses, and wearing the shoes of the night: black pumps with the highest heels and and almost floating red platform.
As she walked from the restaurant to the opera with her date, every head was turned and every woman took note and most notably of the shoes. She took the ground at every step. Shortly thereafter our name was called and our runway moment ended.

As we stood, waiting to be accompanied to our table, a woman saw that we were alone and asked if she and her daughter could join us. Though we were in the heart of LA, the thought, at the crowding throng, was that in Europe people do this all the time. My girlie and I agreed, with LA reluctance, to eat share our dinnertime with Laurie and Carly. As we ate we got to know a little about an LA native mom whose best pal is the man who played Timmy in Lassie and her lovely 16 year old flautist daughter (the one wearing the shoes above) who is crazy about Sarah Jessica Parker and wears a Carly necklace (just like Carrie's) and a diamond horseshoe necklace given to her by SJP's goddaughter. It was great fun and a sweet opportunity, quite outside our expected evening. I watched my daughter shine as she talked about her love of Broadway music (as a genre) and how proud she is of her big brother's musical explorations.

It was an unexpected pleasure. A little shift to my dinner and the theatre paradigm. And one I'm the better for.

Visual Feasting

2011-06-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here are a just few of my favorite visual things:
None are mine, all from favorite blogs.
Enjoy.

From Spain Daily.

From A Journey to a Happy, Simple Life.

From The Yellow Door Paperie.

Sent to me. So beautiful, but the artist is unknown.

I love a good movie.

2011-06-24T08:52:00.000-07:00

Short and sweet two fab and one fun movie. In order?

Super 8
Midnight in Paris
Mr. Popper's Penguins

So, Super 8.
Love, love, love. I am not a middle school aged girl (or boy) but I was right in there with them, enjoying every move they chose. I'd see it again and then again. Here's a review from the reviewer I adore.

Next? Midnight in Paris.
There are definitely words to describe Woody Allen's brilliance, his faithfulness to the art, his dependable humor. But most always, I find myself just with him, enjoying where he's taking me in New York. But here we are, in Paris. And it's almost like he's cheating on New York. Then again, Paris and New York can often feel like the moveable centers of the universe, now can't they?

From the opening and establishing scenes that are like a photo journal of the beautiful city, Midnight in Paris is beautiful and fun and funny and so very thoughtful. Allen is true to the form I've loved in so many of his movies. I was moved many times and don't want to tell you one more thing except perhaps, "See it." And then of course, "I need to book a ticket for Paris immediately. My friend Janice is living there now and I'm all the more in with her in her travels. You can follow her at her blog. (Her writing is fun and inviting and wonderful.)

And finally, Poppers.
I went with my kiddos. The youngest drove the decision and it looked like it would be fun. I kept my expectations low because, well, Jim Carey can sometimes be just a tad bit over the top. I'm just sayin'. But it was quite a pleasant surprise. Penguins who communicated and didn't talk. Carey with lots of range and a very endearing turn. Cute kids and good silliness.
I'll see it again when it comes to a TV near me. It's recommendable.

Now, go see a movie! And let me know about your faves!

Family Royalty - Sandra Hubbell Sanders

2011-06-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

For me it will always be true that this woman, my Aunt Sandy, is the most beautiful woman in the world.

As a little girl she was family royalty. My lovely aunt with smiles and hugs and fun and the very best handwriting.

When I was a teenager she was the girl I wanted to look like. When I became a mom she's the one who notices a few grays after I had my son and told me to color it. (No boy should have a gray mom.) I took her advice, copied her handwriting (for a while) and took on all the joy she shared with me.

I'm sad to say, she passed away a week ago in her beloved San Juan Islands.

I like to think she's having tea with Lady Di, Grace Kelly and Jackie Onassis and her USC Delta Gamma sorority sisters.

Well, Hello.

2011-06-15T17:56:00.000-07:00

Summer's here!
I'm for that.

Things have slowed. One of my peops is in football camp, the other is in scrapbook camp.

I've worked a couple of these quieter summer days in my quiet office. The phone doesn't ring so much and I'm enjoying a bit of uninterrupted thinking.

Then today, I stayed home and took on a scary cupboard. (I have several of them and I plan to have none by the end of July.) I found many wonderful things. Because of scrapbook camp, I was searching to organize scrapbook treats. The cupboard had kidnapped and was holding hostage several blocks of paper, note cards and the like. Oh! And also, some darling pix. This is one of my all time favorites. My Sweet Pea in preschool. It was a whole school ago and this pic has withstood the test of time. It always brings a warm burst to my heart. Her teacher, Mrs. Naraki, one of the most visually creative people I know, took the pic. It came to me in framed a glittered Popsicle stick frame complete with a yarn hanger. It's a treasure.

It reminds me of sweet days and happy girls and that's really Summer's all about isn't it?

Posty All Over

2011-05-20T15:27:00.000-07:00

Well, the caterpillars were a beautiful, deep, rich brown and rather than swarming, came slowly out and waited before flying off.

It was rather ethereal and unexpected. Well, for me. I kinda thought there might be a shower of 200+ butterflies. But they came, each in it's own time.

Me?
Well, I am still incubating the chrysalis thoughts.

I find myself rather swamped in my job.

I am also recuperating from some crazy tough virus that had some flu symptoms but mostly just kept me on my back for days.

And in the midst of it, these funny guys with their opinion. I don't know that I completely agree. I wasn't expecting the flu. But I'll ponder.

What do you think?

Oh, and are you still there?

Caterpillar update 2

2011-03-23T05:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday some of the over 200 butterflies waiting in there chrysalises were wiggling. You can't imagine how giddy I'm feeling. I've never witnessed a butterfly emerging. When my kiddos were three and five we had a butterfly hatchery with 3. Those caterpillars did their work and I saw the butterflies, but missed the emerging. I'm guessing that with 200, I'll see the breaking free. Oh, and they came to my office so I won't likely miss them.

One of the gals I work with asked if they'd be pretty "or just brown." I'm don't really care what color they are, I can't get over:
the numbers,
the place,
the process (the climbing, the hanging, the stillness, the creating of the chrysalis, the stillness, the new ones who join late (real late bloomers), the wiggling and now, the color change - the chrysalises are becoming vaguely orange.

Which means, my friend is going to get pretty butterflies.
And I get 200 butterflies (which will be orange).

I asked a science teacher the other day, why they chose this place to congregate and how all of them got to these broad eaves outside my window. He said, they just know where their supposed to go. He assumed they do this every year. I assure you, they haven't in my three years and no one else seems to have noticed them before.

Perhaps a teeny caterpillar newsletter.

Or a way to hear the Creator.

Those broad eaves have come in very handy in our rainy, stormy, rainy weather.

I depart today with a promise that my camera goes too. And I leave you with great anticipation of the miracle of the butterflies.

Caterpillar update

2011-03-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I walked outside to the beautiful area outside my office for a minute of quiet. I looked up to notice the caterpillars. And there they were, more, more and more climbing up to hitch themselves to a spot under the eves.

So this morning I brought my camera to capture one or two. I thought we'd gone from the original 26 to about 40. I started counting, and stopped at 140. They've gone all the way around the building.

Can you imagine?
Hundreds of butterflies.
Right here.
In front of me.

Quotable Sunday - Kerry

2011-03-12T12:20:00.001-08:00

I am. We are. Our life is. God is. And it is good.

- Kerry, author of mnyoungones.blogspot.com

.

Caterpillars

2011-03-10T17:54:00.000-08:00

I don't have a picture because I had no idea I'd see this today. (I promise an update picture tomorrow.) My daughter pulled me out of my office this afternoon to see twenty-six, 26, yes XXVI caterpillars hoisting themselves for the big job of transformation. It's quite a sight. And something to ponder. They did the long crawl to end up under the eves where they lay flat and then let go to assume the fuzzy black J pose they need before they start spinning.

Of course I think of spring.
And the butterflies I'll soon be seeing (in 7 to 10 days according to the caterpillar enthusiast in my midst). But I'm also thinking about how my church is in a season of focus on Transformation. The art they use each week on bulletins and posters is of the caterpillar to butterfly progression.

And it makes me wonder.
Should I be paying attention? It would seem that there's a little message here. Just for me.

Can I see it? (What exactly is it?)
Can I hang upside down for a while?
Weave the protection around me I need for a season?
Go through the stages of metamorphosis?
Am I listening for the opportunity that God may presenting for the free flight of the butterfly?

Or perhaps, is this just the chance to see His marvelous hand in the nature hanging over me and just outside my window?

We have a Winner!

2011-03-07T12:37:00.000-08:00

I love a giveaway and I love the True Random Number Service at Random.com (Can I tell you how much I love the idea that there's a place called Random.com?)

Julie is the winner of the sweet red mug.

And thanks again to Kerry, the host of all things Love in February!

A Saturday Joy - a few of my favorite things

2011-03-05T10:26:00.000-08:00

I had to laugh at the joy I felt welling up at my center when I saw this still life. There they are, the ABCs of me. This little configuration isn't at all inclusive, but pretty foundational.

a. The coffee machine (in my antique kitchen)

b. The dish soap, because I always have a dish to wash

c. The paint brushes which accompany the toe in the water, the foot in the water, the jumping in with some art

d. The empty salad dressing bottle ready for whichever version of Dijon Vinaigrette comes next

e. The bamboo cutting board from my friend Joe, years ago.

And, my friend, I ask you: What are the ABCs of you?

Leave a comment and you're in on the giveaway.

Ah! A gift to share!

2011-03-03T07:35:00.000-08:00

I'm 99% certain you won't comment to ask what kind of lens I used to capture this pic. It's my Blackberry, but look! A little spring on the Red Bud Tree.

I'm ever so happy to share it with you.

Don't forget the giveaway!

March!

2011-03-01T23:27:00.000-08:00

Well, it seems we'd be in like a lamb, so, out like a lion?
Beautiful blue sky weather here makes me hopeful.
March brings spring and more retreats for kiddos here.
Spring cleaning is beginning to nip at the edges of my mind.

How about you?
What does March signify in your heart and head?

Don't forget the giveaway, a comment, a FB post, become a follower and the cute red mug might be yours!

Check back Monday.

Happy March.

I Love:: A giveaway

2011-02-28T06:24:00.000-08:00

Well, 250 posts & participating with Kerry and all the beautiful gals in the I LOVE: series, are both cause for celebration. So, how about a giveaway?

This lovely, love mug could be yours! How?

Become a follower
Leave a comment
Share the link on your blog or your Facebook page (leave a comment to let me know you did)

Don't forget to leave your name. Check back Monday, March 7 and I'll post the winner's name.

Won't a little coffee taste good in this?

February 26 - I Love:: My Heart Necklace

2011-02-26T06:12:00.000-08:00

Nine years ago my girlfriend and I took a summer driving trip with our kiddos up the coast of California to our other friend's house in St. Helena. As the warm summer days presented, we shared lots of laughter and walks and trips to the country club pool. We dined and shopped and on the second day or so this necklace caught my eye. The language, the weight, even the length of the chain spoke to me.

I toyed with buying it. And on the very last day, my pal, Jemma, got us into the car and took us back to the store. She urged me to consider the value of this one purchase vs. the several souvenirs I could buy. She pushed the concept of the lasting value of something like this that touched me so deeply.

I've worn it most days ever since.

Sometimes I listen and I'm blessed.

February 25 - I Love:: This thought

2011-02-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

I am listening to something beautiful that relates so much, to my inner faith.
In this the speaker referred to Pascal's words:

“In difficult times,” wrote Pascal, “you should always carry something beautiful in your heart.”

I am working on the picture of that beauty.
But, it might not be a picture.
It might be a thought.
And I like to think we should hold the beauty in all times.

You?

February 24 - I Love:: A Night Without Television

2011-02-24T03:41:00.000-08:00

I have confirmed TV hounds living with me.
Last night there was packing for winter retreat going on and homework, homework, homework.
In the back of my head, I found the peaceful recognition that we had lots of time for all of it.
Ahhh.

February 23 - I Love:: My pooch

2011-02-23T06:19:00.000-08:00

I love this dog. In these early morning hours, when I'm at the dining room table, fingers flying, bad hair, he's got my toes covered and makes those contented doggie sounds.

He's such a good friend.

I love all 80+ pounds of him.

Here's an early post about his lovely self.

February 22 - I Love:: These beauties

2011-02-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

I love these Pincushion Flowers.

Scabiosas have a funny name, but boy, this plant has been providing sweet flowers since summer. And here they are in the midst of winter.
I love them in all their colors. I have these black ones (really kinda maroon), white, pink and lovely periwinkles. They make long lasting cut flowers too.

I love Scabiosas.

February 21 - I Love:: This quote

2011-02-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.
-Albert Einstien

There's a timeliness to finding it too.

I love it. Love.

February 20 - I Love:: The Kid & The Cuddle

2011-02-20T06:29:00.000-08:00

At the end of a day that started badly but turned out to be both fun and wonderful, my big girl and I tucked into my bed for a cuddle. I knew we were going to read, but she was against it. That is until I turned the second page in MEET THE AUSTINS by Madeline L'Engle*. Then she was hooked and snuggled very close to listen until she could listen no more and off she went, to whereever the preteen girl with all the friend struggles and new desire for dresses, goes.

It's an awfully sweet time of night and life.

If I could, I'd hold this moment in time forever.

I love my girl and her brilliant, lovely cuddles.

*Highly recommend, great series for this age.

February 19 - I Love:: Sleeping In

2011-02-18T21:10:00.001-08:00

I never do it.
But it sounds so luscious. I'm up before the sun and every now and then I have a second sleep. When I went to bed last night I fully intended to sleep til 7:00. Ahhh. But alas, I, once again, have been up since dark thirty. I miss my pillows.

I need to carry on a bit here. Largely because I noticed in the last couple of years that I, who could fall asleep on an ironing board, always-falls-asleep on an airplane and very often put the seat back to bag a few zzzs while my Dear drove us home from the theater, have lost the art. I sleep, but not in that, any-time-anywhere-and-way-deep way. I wake up too often, not fully, well, done.

Some of it might be that eager-to-start-the-day business, but some of it is, stress and (shhhh!) age. There. I said it. Stress and age. Now, I'll have to ramp up my awareness of stressors and hmmm, do nothing about the age thing. It is what it is.

How about you?

These pillow cases, by the by, are available on Etsy. I love the Alison print by Ralph. So much that I took pillows like these (but without the cute lace) to the hospital when each of my babies were born. I was actually thinking about how they'd be a piece of home for me, lovely for the pictures and one of those things my kids would and do notice.

February 18 - I Love:: The Christmas Cactus

2011-02-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

All right, it was a while ago, but this lovely cactus kept performing. Red and white blooms cheering my kitchen table. I love, blooms of all sorts.

February 17 - I Love:: This Chai Tea Recipe

2011-02-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

I'm a confirmed, died in the wool, roots in Scotland coffee drinker. It is one of my morning joys. But this lovely recipe is tender and yummy and not too sweet. I might have it again tomorrow.

Indian Chai Tea

Ingredients
* 3 teabags black tea
* 4 cups water
* 1 3 inch cinnamon stick
* 1 inch piece of ginger root cut into 4 slices
* 1/2 tsp (2 ml) cardamom seeds
* 1/2 tsp (2 ml) black peppercorns
* 1/2 tsp (2 ml) whole cloves
* 1 tsp (5 ml) whole coriander seeds
* 1 cup (225 ml) coconut or almond milk
* honey or stevia to taste

Directions
Bring water to boil in a saucepan. Add spices, cover, and simmer 20 minutes. Add teabags and steep 10 minutes. Add milk and heat to drinking temperature-do not boil. Strain mixture through a cheesecloth or cotton dish towel. Serve with honey or stevia to taste.

February 16 - I Love:: Being the Mommie in "Mommie, I'm sick..."

2011-02-16T09:38:00.000-08:00

My youngest is not feeling so well.
She's been off-and-on sick since Saturday.
She's the one with the red cheeks and the yuckies.
So, we're snuggling and tending to icky tummies and runny noses and all that being sick brings.
This, of course, includes sleeping the big bed with Mommie and Dad. And entitles you to special tea and ice water in Mom's favorite coffee-to-go cup.

But there's no To Go.
Just "stay."

And cozy. And a little of "that feels better when you rub my head."

I do love that name, Mommie.

February 15 - I Love:: A cozy dinner at home.

2011-02-15T09:57:00.000-08:00

For Valentine's Day we were home in our cozy house.
We shared Valentine's cards and a treat here and there (oh and a little girl was spoiled with a HUGE gorilla from her daddy).
For dinner, a yummy, unbreaded version of Chicken Parmigiana with lemon noodles and haricot vert.
Simple.
Sweet.
Cozy.
Oh I do love the season of hearts.

February 14 -- I Love:: My Loves

2011-02-14T05:14:00.000-08:00

I just love my people. We'll be home tonight for a special Valentine's Dinner (top secret menu). Each of us has a special Valentine's person we're targeting here at home, so some surprises are sure to come. Oh, I do love the day of hearts!

And I love this poem, to my one and only:

- e.e. cummings

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

February 13 -- I Love:: Love

2011-02-13T08:20:00.000-08:00

The very idea - love.

February 12 - I Love:: the Man Who Posted This

2011-02-12T12:00:00.000-08:00

I really love the man and this post.

I'd marry him.

But I already did that.

Glad for it.

That's all I have to say.

February 10 -- I Love:: The time for coffee

2011-02-10T05:06:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love a moment for coffee and the conversation that goes with it?

February 9 - I Love:: The artist in my midst

2011-02-09T08:01:00.000-08:00

Birds on a wire or in a tree set my heart to dancing.
Can't explain it, it's just the way I work.
On the way to school, there's an intersection where tons of birds congregate.
I look forward to seeing them. I comment. I swoon.
So at Christmas time, my girlie made an appointment with an art teacher to provide me with an everlasting impression of the thing I love: my birds.
This is just a piece of the picture.
She brings me such delight.

February 8 -- I Love:: The found heart

2011-02-08T03:04:00.000-08:00

On the street with my girlie and a cell phone, Oh yes, love is apparently, everywhere.

February 7 - I Love:: The gatherings

2011-02-07T05:46:00.000-08:00

I loved spending the morning at a beautiful birthday brunch celebrating my friend Joan. The mixture of guests, the sun, the food -- all perfection. And then, the Superbowl with Al. Al's a confirmed Steelers fan, so being engaged with the game is a given. I did far more watching than talking this year!
What I love the most is the opportunity for something, someone new to cross into my experience.

What about you?

February 6 - I Love:: My friend Joan (& Happy Birthday)

2011-02-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

I'll keep it short.
She's got a laugh that makes you happy even if you're not.
And my son wants to hear her talk for her accent and lilt. (Just a bit Irish.)
She cares about what she does and makes what we do interesting.
She acknowledges that we have to be conscious of being conscious.
We had our babies at the same time and met in a mother's group.
We've weathered losses and gains together and separately, and are much the better for the togethers.
I'd prefer to keep her in my life forever.
In which case:
I may become more consistent in my pursuit of recycling, health and all organic concerns.
I'll ask more questions, like she does.
I'll get to have her husband, who I also love much, carve my turkeys - and regale me with tales.
I'll be with her most beautiful, interesting and utterly charming daughter, who'd I'd take if she'd let me.
I'll feel normal not using a microwave and pitching all the plastic for food storage containers.
I'll read all the E. M. Forrester books, too.
And I'll spend time in the canyon where I feel an extra modicum of peace.
Ah, Joan.
Happy Birthday, beautiful friend.

PS: Happily, this is post 250. I think we'll have to celebrate with a little giveaway later in the week, 'eh?

February 5 - I Love:: Game Night

2011-02-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

God bless her! That girl loves cards.

My mom is a member of her church seniors club. They gather every week to sing and pray and then the whip out the cards. Her gals are particularly fond of Skip Bo. And Mom's a bit of a card sharp. In fact, this is the way I picture the ladies as they sit looking innocent enough, in their 70s and 80s. I doubt that they cheat, or play for money or anything like that, but Mom will never lose a game because she isn't paying attention. She's always all there and all in.

So last night, with one man down, while my eldest was off with his youth group for an overnight at their leader's college dorm. (Watch Mommie breathing.) Grandma came for dinner and brought her favorite game. Skip Bo. After dinner, we headed to the dining room table for what I like to consider the bloodbath. My daughter has a few of my mom's traits and one of them is attention and focus on whatever is at hand. She's a good card player and actually takes a fairly aggressive stance - intending to win. So the cute little Skip Bo cards become tools, weapons even in their hands. My mother and daughter in cahoots. Each winning a couple of games a piece while my Dear caught up on a show in the man cave and I sat at their mercy, wondering how I'm supposed to know when to fill my hand with the five cards. Cute little colorful cards -- producing winners and losers and tons of giggles.

I love game night. It's just so wonderful to soak in all the family I can get.
My tank is quite full thank you!

What are your favorite games?

February 4 - I Love:: Sara's Pray Along

2011-02-04T05:00:00.000-08:00

I am so moved by the idea of linking hearts together in prayer.

When I read the title, Friday Pray Along, my heart took a little leap for joy!

It reminds me - God is good, all the time.
Caring enough to pray for someone's else is one of the great ways my faith and life grows.

I am glad for the opportunity.

February 3 - I Love:: Camellias

2011-02-03T05:43:00.000-08:00

My heart sings when winter comes and these beautiful, delicate camellias bloom on my front porch.

February 2 - I Love:: The Real Mr. Incredible

2011-02-02T00:02:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love this aging superhero? Throughout the Incredibles, Mr. Incredible (or as we call him in our house, the other Mr. Incredible) shows that combination of determination, strength and vulnerability that makes him a pretty lovable guy.

Monday, on an off day for school and a quiet day at Disney's California Adventure, I encountered the real Mr. Incredible.

Without the throngs there for pictures, he was able to demonstrate something that surprised and thrilled me.

There was a little girl with long black hair in a wheelchair. She appeared to be challenged beyond the chair.

Mr. Incredible noticed her.

He walked near to hear and then got down on one knee.

He offered his hand. And in that wordless character communication, he said volumes to her heart, as evidenced in her struggling hand reaching out to him. She smiled. He came closer. And she bowed her head to lean into his chest. He leaned in too. For a moment the kindness and love expressed was brilliant and tender and personal.

I'd decided to forgo a ride for a chance to sit and observe. I received the best gift -- a warmed heart through an incredible encounter.

The most wonderful time of the year!

2011-02-01T08:05:00.000-08:00

It's Valentine's season.

Why would we relegate any awareness and expression of love to a day?

Last year Kerry at Young Ones got us all thinking about the season of love. So, I say, join in. Pop over to Kerry's blog, grab a button and post away!

And, happy Valentine's Day. All month.

Now, you could get with This or you could get with That*

2011-01-30T05:47:00.000-08:00

I don't think I've ever shared a this or that list here with the birds.
I'm compelled.
I must.
Here goes:

I don't recall how I found this blog but my eyes are so happy with it.
I will be making this soup.
These ideas inspire me.
And so does this gathering of thoughts about women (thanks to Kerry's link and Adele's beautiful post)
Ever enthralled by her art, I wonder: how does she do it?
I agree with this brilliant young critic's point of view. (oh, i love him to pieces, too.)
I'd like to take this walk.
I would make good use of this tape.
I like these for soups and stews.
My son introduced me to these guys by playing their tunes in my car, over and over, they make me laugh. This is his favorite.

Finally, Valentine's Day is coming soon, so I'm spending time with these ideas.

Have fun.
* Tickles my mom!

BFFs backward

2011-01-28T18:12:00.000-08:00

These could be us. The Santa Monica Moms who celebrated birthday breakfast last week. OK, there are really six of us, but the one across the Atlantic Ocean and the one in Northern California weren't with us.
The SoCal four and our kiddos stick pretty close when we can. And if we'd known each other at this age, we'd very likely be these gals. They are lovely in their finery and I see a little of each of us in the one we might look a bit like! (Me? Hands on hips with the pink boa for sure.)

Silly.
Joyful.
Astute.
Fashionable.
And a bit saucy.

Who wouldn't want to be friends with these gals?

A Food Blog Just for Moms!

2011-01-27T08:12:00.000-08:00

My bird has been fed and the seashell is on my dresser but, my friends and I have been a little busy in a new spot. Check it out!

What am I Cooking?

Let us know what you think. We're just getting started and you might want to be a guest contributor.

I'll be back, by the way, I've lots of beautiful things to and a provoking thought of two rattling around!

Quotable Sunday

2011-01-23T03:15:00.000-08:00

"I had no idea! Really! I thought it was just going to be us!"

-Michelle, as she sat down for a party of 8 surprise birthday breakfast

The Breakfast Surprise Party

2011-01-22T18:01:00.000-08:00

This morning we surprised Michelle, one of my mama pals, with a day after birthday breakfast. We pulled it off, we moms and our girls. My girlie and me, Jemma and gals, Joan and her sweet, and - Michelle. Michelle is a mom of boys. So, isn't it lovely she could be surrounded by girls to celebrate her day?

Jemma provided the flowers from her garden and I wish you could see how great these red tables look.

The saucer holds remnants of the French Macaroons. Salted Caramel and Chocolate, I believe.

Celebrating should be mandatory.

Maybe every Saturday.

There's so much to be glad for. Especially when you're one of five who love being moms together.

And La Provence is a wonderful place to enjoy.

Ahh, the Bergamot

2011-01-21T12:02:00.000-08:00

Like many, many people my only understanding of the Bergamot was some essential oil memory. An oil sold with the likes of Patchouili oil. It had something to do either with hippies or massage therapists.

Thankfully, life provides experiences (and a foraging neighbor) so my understanding has been refined.

Stick with me here.

In the early 2000s, a lovely gardening man I worked with, used to bring small vases of Freesia into my office in winter. At first I just thought they were beautiful. Over time, I realized that they were beautiful and fragrant and drove me to want a cup of tea. And, as my unintentional explorations led, I found my desire fulfilled in Earl Grey. I've become quite an Earl Grey connoisseur, I enjoy the subtler, not to perfumey types and I like the hint of Bergamot. (See how we came full circle - wait there's more).

I was content with my tea and freesia experiences. Then this summer my friend, the foraging friend, introduced me to a beautiful line of pure and delicious olive oils. They are tres special. The way the olives are harvested and crushed makes for a very complete flavor. Garlic is crushed with the olives (for the garlic olive oil) rather than garlic oils being added to the olive oil. No infusion. Full on flavor marriage. You can learn about the oils here. I'm never going back!

In the end, the flavors hold up in cooking or preparations really well and that pleases me.

One day, I was looking at the Bergamot label and was truly surprised to learn that Bergamot isn't extracted from actual hippies, but from the Bergamot, a citrus fruit grown in Calabria, Italy or perhaps France.

Finally, yesterday, Mary handed me an actual Bergamot from one from her travels. Yes, it looks like a lemon and your knowledge of citrus has probably made your mouth water as if to smell or taste the sour. But the fragrance is intense and beautiful and clean and freesia like.

I have to cut into it and taste it. It's said to be more bitter than the grapefruit, which seems impossible with its beautiful scent. I plan, however to wait. I want to leave it on the counter in my kitchen and breath in all the aroma this beauty has to offer.

The Bergamot

2011-01-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Mary gave me a Bregamot.
I can't wait to tell you about this fruit.
Have you ever held one in your hand?

New Steps in this New Year

2011-01-20T05:21:00.000-08:00

As I go in this new year, I'm thinking that there are things I want to include and things I'd like to leave behind.
Here's the list so far:

Include

Walk
Read
Write
Food blog (bring fun recipes and thoughts, hmmm, seems like this might be one already, sometimes)
Plan a Weekly Menu and eat at home at least five nights a week
A Square Foot garden
Family game nights
Listening to my kiddos
Encourage others' faith, hopes and dreams
Sleep
Movie dates with my dear husband no less than 2 nights a month

Discard

Unplanned spending (the 3 day waiting rule can apply to me too!)
Clothes I'm not using
Sugar
Responding before taking the beat for thought
Anxious thought

I just may keep updating this list. I'll certainly be reporting on it.

Celebrating Disappointment.

2011-01-19T11:51:00.000-08:00

I've heard of cooking a turkey in a trash can. Sadly, my tale is about the turkey that hit the trash can, good night!

Last night, the intrepid, mama de cuisine, headed for the kitchen with great gusto. I'd planned my weekly menu (thank you for the inspiration Kerry!) and was prepared to, well, prepare. I made a beautiful kale salad (credit to Joan) to be used in the coming days (the juice of half an orange and olive oil along with some unsweetened and dried cranberries mingle well). Started a pot of Pasta Fagioli (thanks to my friend Alice and her recipe) while I got the potatoes on the boil and a head of Romanesco tossed in lemon and olive oil and into the oven.

The easy part was supposed to be the Trader Joe's Turkey Breast with cranberry stuffing. It wasn't. While the mashers were wonderful, the Romanesco brocolli tenderly roasted and browning, the turkey was a bust. I'm adept with turkey. (I've been on a quest for perfectly tender turkey and found a couple of different perfectly delicious ways.) I didn't see this one coming, however. It's sold as a rolled and stuffed breast wrapped in an elasticized net to hold it together. We're supposed to cook it in a 350 oven for 20 minutes per pound. Following the directions I stuck my insta-read in and it came out a beautiful 160 degrees. Unfortunately, that was just the outer turkey meat. The inside meat, when cut was a nice pink. Ok, not so nice. Clearly, this style of stuffed breast should have cooked lower and slower.

It ended up in my trash can. I'm all too aware of how salmonella works and also, not the least bit willing to serve dried out turkey breast (which was only going to get drier going back in the oven). A sad sigh follows.

All was not lost though. Leftover chicken found it's way into a subtle turkey gravy I was playing with from the drippings, some stock and vermouth. It was yummy over the potatoes. And the nice man at Trader Joe's is going to provide a refund for my trouble. (He was aghast to hear about the instruction trouble.)

It was a learning experience and a nice save.
I can celebrate the disappointment.
It's a good thing.