Life the life you love...

Begin Anywhere...

2011-04-26T16:29:00.000-07:00

"Unfold your own myth,

without complicated explanation,

so everyone will understand the passage.

Your legs will get heavy and tired.

Then comes a moment of feeling the wings you've grown

lifting."

-Rumi

What can I say except that my life has changed a lot in the last year. For the better. For a girl who doesn't really enjoy "change," I have filled the last twelve months with it. I called off my engagement, sold the house I so dearly loved (oh picked fences, who knew you weren't the key to happiness), left my job, and moved to San Francisco. I read an article about the most stressful things that can happen to a person. I think I covered the top four out of five in the last year.

To say that the past year was rough would be an understatement. It was the hardest journey a person could walk, I still marvel at the sadness and hopelessness of it all.

But that was then.

My new life is all about me simply being me.

Tarot card reading, cat loving, champagne drinking, laugh til you cry, San Franciscan.

I marvel at everything around me these days - the architecture, the people, the food, the experiences. I am in love with it all.

The simple joy of discovery.

Who knew life could be this good?

It's time...

2010-06-30T23:26:00.000-07:00

Time for me to share a little bit

about what has been going on with my life.

It's time for me to make some changes that have been a really long time coming.

It's time for me to live the life that has been calling out to me for over a year.

One morning in May, I woke up and said it's time.

I called off my engagement.

I made a promise to myself to start really living my life.

On my own terms.

Regardless of how scary it feels to do that.

(And believe me, it's scary)

Regardless of who might look at me and say

"She's making a big mistake" or

"She's running out of time."

(Yes mom, that includes you.)

It was simply time.

Now, before I begin sharing, I would ask that if you are reading this, you understand that these are words that I am simply putting out into the universe. I am a writer by heart, and this is where I find peace. Writing it all down makes it all real for me somehow. I would ask that you lay down judgement and instead pick up compassion. We are all here on earth to learn lessons - to love, to grow, to make mistakes, to start again...and again. Having the courage to do any of those things is a tremendous task - doing any of those things with grace is even more difficult.

This hasn't been my year in so many ways. As I type those words, I smile at what an understatement that is and at the same time begin to tear up because I have really been through so much in the last twelve months. And in the last 31 years. I have been unlucky in love. I have had so many false starts. I have been engaged twice, married once, and find myself totally on my own - so late in the game. Life is funny.

I have been in four long term relationships in the last 13 years- the first person I ever really loved who showed me exactly what heartache felt like, the person showed me how to heal it, the person who broke my heart even worse than it was broken the first time, and Tim...

Tim found me when I was really a broken soul. I had spent a year of my life proving to myself that I could go it alone. I even made a list of the three things in the world I needed help with: setting up a Christmas tree, changing a tire, and moving. Everything else I could do alone. I still remember the night I made that list. And the emotion behind it. Not needing anyone for most things felt like a success. I wanted a big safety net in those days. I wanted love to pinky swear that it wouldn't hurt me again. I wanted someone to heal my broken heart. Tim did all of that. He was just what I needed at the time. He was a true gift in my life. Not sure who or what I would have become had I not met him that warm September evening.

Now, who is to say what happens to love when it fades away. It's not like you go to bed in love and wake up without an ounce of emotion. Time, and the way we as people change over time creates a chasm that sometimes nothing can bridge. I spent almost a year hoping that things would get better. I remember reading the book "Eat Pray Love" - and the scene that I remember most was the author talking about laying on her bathroom floor crying, and asking WHAT TO DO...WHAT TO DO...and the answer she heard was "Go back to bed." My journey was similar. Rather than do "something," I felt like I just needed to do "nothing." I was worried I was making a mistake. I was afraid to be alone. I was afraid to turn 32 and be single. I was afraid to follow my heart.

If you know me, there is one thing I ALWAYS do and have always done...and that is follow my heart. Even when following my heart leads me somewhere totally unconventional. After all, I am the girl who got married in Las Vegas in a drive through ceremony. My heart says do it...and I do it (and pay the piper later, of course.)

Helen Keller once wrote that "life is either a daring adventure, or it is nothing." I really believe that is true.

The last year has been the first time in my life I have ever stayed behind when my heart was urging me onward. The first time I have ignored the signs and the signals. If there is one thing I have learned, it is that not following your heart stifles your spirit. So many things in my life have been out of whack as a result, I cannot even begin to quantify it. The lesson I have learned is simple.

If your heart speaks, listen to it. And follow where it leads. No matter what.

Which brings me to where I am now. I am turning 32 in about 2 days. Two years ago on my birthday, I got engaged. It felt like the happy ending I had always wanted. Two years later, that beautiful diamond that I loved so much sits in a box - the symbol of a life that simply did not become. When we bought this house, three years ago this winter, I stood in the guest room, looking out at my little street all decorated for Christmas. I pictured myself in that room rocking a baby to sleep. Selling this house will be the death of a lot of dreams. It is sad. I don't know what else to call it.

What my life looks like from here is not anything set in stone. That's a first for me. And yet, I am strangely okay with it all. If you subscribe to my mom's philosophy, I have approximately three child bearing years left. (then, I guess I spontaneously combust...we shall see.) And while I always saw myself being someone's mother, I am going to live if it doesn't happen for me. Unwilling to settle for anything but the real thing from here on out, I have to be realistic that I may be alone for a very long time. Maybe always. Who knows what lies around the corner.

Right now, I am in love with the idea of living my life, and counting my blessings, in whatever form they may come to me. Wonderful friends, traveling to beautiful places, getting to know myself really and truly, and maybe even being at peace with the nebulousness of it all.

Yes, It's time for all of that.

To each and every one of you who has kept me in their thoughts, been with me along my journey, said a prayer, sent out a wish, lent a shoulder, dried a tear, or just been a friend, I say a very heartfelt thank you.

You are certainly sunshine in my world.

Much love to all.

Kristin

Where I am...

2009-11-09T00:07:00.000-08:00

To say I haven't written in a while is kind of an understatement. Not even really sure if anyone will be by to read this. Not really sure of much anymore. I haven't really written for a few reasons - one of which is that I am really going through a very difficult time right now. Lots of change. Lots of uncertainty. Lots of days when I am not really sure why my life feels like it is unraveling. Trying to keep a stiff upper lip, but it is getting increasingly difficult. When I have the strength to write and the courage to share all, I will be back. For now, please pray for me and for the very tough journey I am on. Much love to you all.

Kristin

If you can't say anything nice, sit next to my mom

2009-07-27T21:50:00.000-07:00

Mothers and Daughters - out of all of the relationships I have had in my life, my relationship with my mother has been the most valuable, the most all-encompassing, and also the most complicated. What I love best about my mother is also the thing that bothers me the most sometimes - she is brutally honest. As in, if you are looking for someone to fluff your feathers, don't call my mother. As an adult, when I go shopping for clothes, I can still hear her commentary. Like today, when I tried on a bright pink dress, I heard her voice, as clear as day, say "Oh my god, you look like a beach ball." Which would be funnier if she hadn't actually said it once, when I was trying on something back in the day.

I called my mom today and we laughed about the beachball dress, and I think she felt bad that
I remember her saying negative things. The truth is, she isn't perfect. I don't think I'd want her to be. Or else, I would be walking down the street in a bright pink dress and people would be secretly thinking..."that poor girl, she looks just like a beachball."

Oh this movie...

2009-07-01T00:16:00.000-07:00

Did you see the movie The Curious Case of Benjamin Button? I should have known I would love it because it is written by F.Scott Fitzgerald. I've never read anything of his that hasn't stuck to me for life. My favorite scene of the movie (and also the scene that made me tear up) was the scene pictured below, where the characters are realizing that their love is in its absolute prime. Knowing it will not be this way forever, they look in the mirror at themselves, to truly remember the moment. I was reading my sister's blog earlier and she posted a picture of her and her husband back in their dating days. She wrote that she wasn't sure how they got where they are from the happy moment in the photo. Ahhh, life. It is so beautiful sometimes and so hard sometimes. In every relationship I have had, I can look back and remember that happy time. The dizzy headed, butterfly, fireworks moment. Even in friendships that have been lost, you can look back and remember those moments. Nothing can change the ebb and flow of life. I guess the message is to enjoy the prime. If its good, know that its good. And hope it lasts as long as possible.

A quote from the movie that sort of spoke to me:

"For what it's worth: it's never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There's no time limit, stop whenever you want. You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life you're proud of. If you find that you're not, I hope you have the strength to start all over again. "

Oh, and if you haven't seen this movie, you simply must.

The Happy Place

2009-05-27T22:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, so my posts have been a little deep lately. So I'll just warn you that this one will be too. I promise I will try to write more about sunny things like cupcakes and antique store finds, but right now, I'm in a deep place and my posts are coming from that place. I hope you'll read along with me and in the process maybe feel a tap at your heart - like this applies to you too. A few weeks ago, when my friend Nick was out, we were sitting outside at dusk, eating dinner and I looked at him and said "this is going to be one of my happy places." I then told him that I (like all of us, I'm sure) have these captive memories of moments in my life that are my happy places. I can go there in my mind and be there, relive the moment, enjoy the happiness. Most of them aren't big earth shattering milestones like birthdays or graduations. They are simple moments where life is just really good. And the other thing about happy places - you normally don't have a picture to go with them. Like you are there, enjoying it, and even if there was a picture taken, it wouldn't really accurately encompass what the moment truly was about.

Nick and I spent a while sharing out happy places - for him, it was an evening on his parent's porch, right after he came home from being away in New York at college. There were candles lit, great music playing, and all of the people he loved were there. A happy place.

Tonight, Tim and I went to Laguna Beach for dinner. We ate at the most amazing restaurant, and as we ate, I brought up the happy place thing. I told him that this - our dinner tonight - was a happy place. And so many other moments with him - our times in Solvang, especially at our favorite wine bar, the smell of the aged wine in casks heavy in the air. I can close my eyes and be there. A cloudy morning in Mystic, CT, the day of Tim's Aunt's wedding, shopping for a trinket to give Tim's mom and having clam strips in a little New England fish house. And a fall night with my friend Jonathan, at his friend Yvette's in Laguna Beach. Sitting there in a courtyard on a black iron work patio set, just the two of us. With the splashing water of the water fountains and the smell of hundreds of white roses. French music spilling out into the night and a real conversation. No words spared. Such a beautiful moment of friendship. It was nice to sit with Tim and talk about my happy places and to learn about his. Some of which I'd never even heard about. I got to live them with him as he talked about them. As we talked, the waiter came by and said "Wow, I haven't wanted to interrupt you guys"..."You seem so in love." What came to me is that we are nothing more than a sum of moments, and that passionate moments are what we are here to have. The waiter even saw the passion spilling from both of us as we shared our favorite moments of life.

Next time you are with someone you love, ask them to tell you about their happy place. And think about yours. Close your eyes and go there for a minute. I hope it fills your heart as it did mine tonight.

Where I am right now...

2009-05-23T23:06:00.000-07:00

"It's not so much that we're afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it's that place in between that we fear...It's like being between trapezes. It's Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothing to hold on to."

That is so where I am right now.

Linus when his blanket is in the dryer.

I have nothing to hold on to.

I've been in such a funk lately for quite a number of reasons. Part of that is the transition I am going through at work. Exciting changes, but changes just the same. Changes that mean leaving the people that I love seeing every day. Changes that mean difficult decisions, difficult situations, the uphill battle that I've already fought once - off to fight it again, it seems. Only in a new place. An important place. With all eyes on me.

I've been selected to run one of the flagship locations for my company for a few months during my colleague's maternity leave. Four months or so away from my store seems like such a long time not to laugh my heart out with Jonathan, hear Debbie's stories, get Gloria's advice. Part of leaving means that I have to hand my store over to Jonathan. And step away.

STEP. AWAY.

And know that I have given him the tools he will need to make it a success. Know that it is his chance to do something great. To accept that he could even do it better. Sigh...

And to step back and let him stumble a little here and there because that is how you learn. It just is. I'm so proud of him. I want him to do so well. It's hard to leave my baby though. The store, not Jonathan. Although that is hard too.

I think of all of the times I have been in this situation. Where gaining something new means letting go of something well loved. Where the time comes to walk away from what is comfortable in pursuit of something challenging. It is the right thing, but it is a sucky thing. Yes, I said sucky.

I was talking to my friend Gloria - my sounding board - about the whole thing. She was saying that when she was a child, they moved a lot. And each place they lived taught her something great. Great friendships. Great experiences. She said she wouldn't have traded one move because that would have meant missing out on something that made her who she was. But with each move, there was a loss. And that is where I am.

Love...

2009-05-17T21:12:00.000-07:00

Come into the pomegranite orchard in springtime

where there are songs, dancing and good wine.

If you come, these do not matter,

If you don't come, these do not matter

--Rumi

My Nick

2009-05-13T14:15:00.000-07:00

My friend Nick.

To say he means the world to me is sort of underestimating exactly how much he means to me. Even though I haven't known him my whole life, or even more than a few months, you would never know it by looking at us. He gets me. I get him. He calls me his Poodle. I call him my Nick. We laugh more together in an hour than I have laughed in years. He is a ray of sunshine. I always say that when he is around, everyone else is in black and white and he is in color. It couldn't be more true.And, as life would have it. He lives in San Francisco.

Way. Too. Far. Away.

Luckily for me, he was in town this past week and so I got to spend a few days showing him around Orange County. Long talks. Tons of Sangria. Martinis. We had more than our fair share of fun.

My least favorite part of seeing him is that each visit we have together is always punctuated by a goodbye. I cried last time when our time together was over. I cried when I dropped him off at the airport. I've been melancholy - missing him for the last few days. Such a sap. My favorite friend. I miss you and can't wait to see you again soon!!

What a kick!

2009-05-03T17:00:00.000-07:00

This week has been sort of crazy and annoying. Do you ever have those weeks? I'd like to hit the big delete button of life and just erase this week. Don't you wish that existed?

In the midst of the blurry annoyingness that was the last few days, I had a fun life first! I got to feel a baby kick. I think I've touched a few pregnant tummies in my day, but never actually felt the kick. We were at Tim's sister Erin's house last night and she let me feel. Just amazing. And hard too.

Can't wait to meet you in September, Little Marley.

Dear Bobo the tent maker...

2009-04-28T16:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Bobo-The-Tent-Maker,

I know that you normally make tents, but I think you are the only person who has enough material to make pants that will fit me right now. Bobo, let's just say that I have gained a pound or two ... or thirty in the last few years. You and I both know that my weight tends to fluctuate, but I want you to understand while you are rolling out those yards of material to make me my pants that I am only pudgy because I drink a lot of this...

and enjoy more than my fair share of these... and I want you to understand that before I became such a foodie, spouting off words like creme fraiche and brioche and tarte tatin, there was a time when I looked like this.

Now, please get to work on those pants.

Thanks,

Kristin

...Please note that the "skinniest" picture I have of myself was taken at my old place of work (I wish it was at a beach or doing something more fun than working. After my divorce, I went through a barely eating or enjoying life period where I worked all the time and didn't eat much. Isn't it sad that the time of my life that I looked the prettiest, I was enjoying life the least. Oh well. Nobody ever said that life was fair, did they.

Bellview Trail

2009-04-23T00:09:00.000-07:00

This is Bellview Trail - the amazingly dreamy stretch of land where I go walking by my house. Every time I go, I get just far enough from my house that I can't turn back when I think "I wish I had my camera." So today, I actually remembered to bring it along for the ride.

Just the most amazing place in the world. I am so lucky to call this home.

The Golden Umbrella

2009-04-22T00:27:00.000-07:00

I grew up listening to my mother talk about the conversations that she had with God. Conversations where she would talk to God and he would talk to her. I always figured that it was a figment of her imagination or a way that she would comfort herself and confirm her beliefs as if to say "God is real because I heard him talking to me." Certainly God wasn't so real and so tangible that we could actually hear him speaking to us. Or was he.

I have actually come to a real crossroads with religion in the last year. I've never been a very religious person. I went to church with my mom as a child and never felt comfortable there. I was frightened by the people being healed and the people speaking in tongues. I didn't find God there. I went through things in my life that I could not explain. Difficult times that didn't feel like the work of God. I looked at my life and I didn't find God there. I went to church with Tim and couldn't take communion because I am divorced. Certainly the kind, loving God that everyone speaks of wouldn't want me to be eternally punished every time I go to church by having to sit by myself while everyone else takes communion. So much for catholicism.

I didn't find God there.

But I did find him.

I was out walking in my neighborhood on the most beautiful day anyone could ever imagine, right at sunset (which my mom has always said was "Jesus's favorite time of day" according to the bible.) I was having a bad day, kind of having a pity party for myself. I was feeling really discouraged and sorry for myself.

I thought about my age - I'm just not as young as I used to be. I thought marriage and how I figured I would be married by this point in my life. And babies...my ex-husband just welcomed a new son into the world and here I am without children. With that clock ticking in the background. And my job, it pays the bills, but it isn't a dream. All of this playing in my head as I walked and looked up to the sky, praying and asking God for peace with all of the distress I was feeling.

And then it hit me...

How much I was taking for granted. How lucky I am.

I heard a voice as clear as day say to me

"Your life is protected and safe. You are under a Golden Umbrella."The Golden Umbrella...

Which keeps my family and I safe and well,

Which lead me from a troubled marriage to a happy life with Tim.

Which has brought friends into my life right when I needed them.

Which made it possible to have a beautiful home and live in a place that is so filled with beauty. Which took me out of a job that would have ended this past Friday in the most miserable job market imaginable. I would have been unemployed right in the thick of it all.

But the golden umbrella covered me from that.

And as I thought of all of the things that I have to be thankful for, I felt ashamed for focusing on all of my life's shortcomings when I have so much to be happy about. I began to smile and look up at the sky.

They say that happiness is where you find it. I think God is also where you find him. At your lowest moment. In the eyes of a new baby or the last breath of someone you love. In a moment where your life is filled with questions and there is only one way to find the answers. And you find God. There. Where you need him most and expect him least.

All Around Great Day

2009-04-15T22:42:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, I hosted my first Easter at our home. As if that wasn't scary enough, it was for both my family and Tim's AND it was the first time both families had met! Now that's a milestone of a day, isn't it? I have to say that it went just as perfectly as it possibly could have. The weather was amazing, the food was oh-so-good, and the families, well they were just so fun to have all together.

Keeping with my New Year's resolution to make life easy on myself, I decided to serve on paper plates. GASP! I can hardly believe I did it because I have a real problem with paper plates, but I wanted to enjoy my day and NOT do ten loads of dishes. Cute, huh?

My mom (on the left) Marie and Tim's mom Marsha. I think they did well together.
Beautiful Zoe, slept through the day.

Adorable Nick, looking like he just stepped out of a J Crew ad.

Little Drew playing catch with a lemon. My brother (who is such a big kid) picked them off of my tree. Oh well, they had fun with it.

Nick enjoying the bubbles.

Drew, who did such an awesome job with my nephew Nick. He even shared his bubbles. Awesome, huh? It was fun to see all of my favorite boys all together. Nick even got dirty - it was fun to see him be "one of the boys."

Baby Ryan trying out the bunny ears.

My friend Gloria said she prayed for me early on Sunday morning that everything would come together perfectly for me. She knew that I was nervous about getting all of the families together and about hosting nearly 25 people at my house. Her prayers were answered - it was a glorious day not soon to be forgotten. Hope your Easter was equally heaven-sent.

Can I go to bed yet?

2009-04-12T02:42:00.000-07:00

Did you happen to see the Easter bunny at my house - filling eggs, hiding them, making desserts, arranging everything for a 30 person brunch? Well, neither did I. Okay, I'm crazy for staying up this late to get everything ready to roll for my party tomorrow. But I'm hoping you can look past that and enjoy the fruits of my labor.

A quick preview of tomorrow's dessert table.

I've never made a stacked cake before or a from scratch carrot cake for that matter. So, here is my first stab at both. I was brutally afraid that it was going to collapse or not tier right. Looks amazing - hopefully it tastes okay. There is so much more to show you...a bucket of Easter eggs ready to be hidden, some new splashes of color I added to my garden ready to be enjoyed, a beautiful coca-cola and molasses ham ready to be eaten and so much fun ready to be had (in just a few hours!!) I am on pins and needles to see how both families get along and a little anxious for everyone to like one another and break the ice. Cross your fingers for me!!
And enjoy a blessed Easter with your families and friends.

Let's Catch Up...

2009-04-05T10:58:00.000-07:00

Okay, grab a cup of coffee (or a Diet Coke) and have a seat. I haven't blogged in a few weeks (cannot believe it myself) and want to catch you up on the latest happenings here in Dove Canyon.

I spent the last two weeks of March in Temecula helping coordinate the efforts for our beautiful new store that Grand Opened on March 26th. It was amazing to see a store go from four walls to a bustling store full of customers in only ten days. Needless to say, it was a lot of work. But even more than work, it was so much fun.

One of the best parts of the two weeks was meeting my new friend Nick. I have never met anyone that I felt so connected to (not in a romantic way, but in a "I feel like I've known you my whole life" kind of way). I cried when he got in the car to go to the airport and cried when I got home because I missed him so. The good news is that he is coming back to Southern California at the end of this month to help out with another project! I am so thrilled!!

My nephew Nick celebrated his second birthday at the end of the month and my sister hosted a super fun Birthday for him at a very pretty park down in San Diego. Imagine hosting a party two weeks after delivering a baby via c-section. My sister gets the Mom of the Year award!! The weather was perfect and the icing on the cake was getting to hold my ultra amazing niece Zoe. She is such a calm baby and holding her is my new favorite thing. Hard to believe little Nick came into our lives two years ago! The time has really flown by!!

And, after many recent computer problems followed by two failed battery adapters, I broke down and bought a new computer last night! It wasn't really a purchase that I wanted to make per say, but I found an awesome lap top and I'm having fun exploring it. I appologize for the lack of pictures on this post, but I haven't transferred them over from my lemon laptop.

And finally, Easter is right around the corner!!!! I decided last year that I wanted to host a big Easter egg hunt for all of the kids this year at our house. I grew up hearing stories about the amazing Easter egg hunts that my Aunt Joyce used to put together for us when we were little. Tons of eggs filled with everything from candy to coins to a lottery ticket or a dollar bill. With one golden egg that had something really special! I don't remember them at all because I was only a year old when my Aunt passed, but when I think of Easter, I think of my Aunt and the wonderful memories she created. SO, I am busy putting one together for Sunday.

I am also hosting a brunch afterwards and it will be the first time I've had both my family and Tim's together. I'm actually not nervous about it at all. I think it is way overdue! I am just praying for good weather and a fun day for all!!

So, my creative friends, any suggestions for cute trinkets to put in the eggs besides candy? All five of the "hunters" are boys between the ages of one and five!

So caught up...

2009-03-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy and have missed posting, and writing, and most of all reading about what is going on in all of your lives. I am down in Temecula right now, helping to lead the grand opening effort for our brand new store in Temecula, CA. I have been having a blast and have made so many new friends. It has been amazing.

Speaking of amazing, here is my beautiful niece Zoe - born on March 15th. She is just breathtaking!

I have to run, but I will be back home in a few days and will catch you all up on the latest! Hugs to you all.

Grace in the small stuff...

2009-03-11T00:50:00.000-07:00

1. Laughing out loud.

2. Chatting with my mom about the most random things. (Like how I used to love to use our microwave when it was a cutting edge appliance. I would offer to make hot dogs for everyone, just because I could make them so readily. What a child of the eighties!! )

3. Friends that know you like the back of your hand.

4. A cold diet coke in the morning (because I'm just not a coffee girl)

5. Surprising people - with a gift, with a kind word, with a job well done. Nothing feels better.

It's that time again...

2009-03-08T22:57:00.000-07:00

Oh, why are these cookies so irresistable? I bought two boxes from Vikki at work - you know, to help out the cause. I bought the Samoas (you know, the ones filled with coconutty goodness) and the new lemon ones that are shaped like lemon slices. Well, Tim and I polishes those boxes off in about a day or two. Ooops. I was actually relieved to get them out of the house and away from my sweet tooth. But those darn scouts, they can spot a sucker a mile away. Tim must have been their big sale of the day yesterday, because he came home from the grocery store with 6 boxes. Tagalongs, more lemons (my new favorite), more Samoas, and some new chocolate shortbread deal. There would have been thin mints too if they hadn't sold out of them.

What about you? Did you support your local girl scouts? Which ones are the hardest for you to turn down?

Great Advice

2009-03-05T23:45:00.000-08:00

I was talking to my friend Gloria today - who just celebrated her 30th Wedding anniversary. They are the happiest couple I know. I asked her how they do it - how they have kept a happy marriage alive through thirty years and four children and all of the things that come in and out of their lives. She said their philosophy with their marriage is that it doesn't have a back door. You stay and work it through. I suppose that is what generations of people have done before it was okay to just call it quits. Imagine how many things would be a success if people only worked at them and stayed with them. It just made me think. What about you, married friends? How do you keep your marriage afloat?

When it's time to change, then its time to change...

2009-03-02T20:55:00.000-08:00

Remember a few posts ago, when I talked about my important conference call, and how I really wanted to make my mark.

I think I did. Because my voice got shaky and creaky just like Peter Brady when he sang "Its time to change." Except at least Peter brady had an excuse. It was so weird because that has never EVER happened to me before. And I was nervous, but not that nervous. My boss said I did great.

Thank God I can laugh at myself.

All in a day's work...

2009-03-01T22:00:00.000-08:00

Oh, this crazy economy of ours. You can't watch the news for five minutes without hearing about it. Tim and I are really lucky to have great, stable jobs. But, like everyone else, I have tried to cut back on unnecessary (aka fun) purchases. So when I saw this guy at Target for $20.00 a few weeks ago, I resisted breaking down and buying it. But last week, I finally cracked and bought him. I mean come on, he is so cute! And I did really NEED a watering can. I just know the nephews will have fun with him when they come over.
I also picked up this cute plant to put in my planter by my front door. It screams spring.

I pulled out my fun little St.Patrick's Day sign for my garden patch.

After I finished gardening, I went for a walk, visited with my neighbor and then went to the store to get stuff to make dinner. I got this great classic salad recipe from Debbie at work. She is Sicilian and swears by this salad. Just a bag of good european greens, with some huge fresh parmesan curls...

toss it with the juice of one lemon (I got mine from my tree) and olive oil. So good, so healthy...

And since the salad was healthy, I didn't feel too guilty making these (scalloped potatoes) to go along with my turkey sausages (stuffed with feta and sundried tomatoes). My mom used to make these all the time. We all agree that they taste best cold.

Then, for dessert, I made this classic. My mom used to also make this a lot. I used fat free milk for my pudding, so I added a few extra wafers. This is one of my favorite comfort food desserts.

I took a picture before a cut a big old bowlful out for Tim and I.

I would say that makes for a great day, wouldn't you?

Standing Out

2009-02-28T22:56:00.000-08:00

Standing out in my old company seemed to come really easily to me. I worked hard, did well, and people noticed. The way it should be. If they wanted something done well, done right, done quickly, I was their girl. It has been a little bit more challenging in my new job. In a bigger company, there are so many great people and so much talent - it has taken me some time to show them what I can do and to make my mark. I found out on Friday that my store has the top ranking cooking classes and technique classes in the entire company. Pretty amazing...And to top it off, I have been asked to speak on a regional conference call on Monday. So, I really want to stand out. Conference calls can be really flat lining and sometimes people talk and are so, well, forgettable. I want to make a mark. I thought about doing something funny - like asking for a show of hands...get it...on a conference call, you couldn't see the hands. Or telling them that I got a ball gown for the occasion - just to break the ice.

What do you guys think? Any suggestions to really make it memorable?

My Little Debbie

2009-02-23T23:03:00.001-08:00

I love the people I work with. I don't think anyone goes to work every day with more amazing people than I do. One of my most treasured work friendships is with Debbie. She is funny, kind hearted, and incredibly talented in the kitchen. This woman can make about 100 different things with a brick of cream cheese and don't even get her started on making paninis. Seriously.
She reminds me a lot of my own mom. I think that is why I get such a kick out of her. I lovingly refer to her at work as "my little Debbie."
Little Debbie's daughter was blessed with a little girl after many years of trying for a baby. Little Riley Grace was born about a week and a half ago. Debbie's daughter experienced some complications, which landed her in the hospital, and that landed Debbie at home with her grandbaby for the first few days. Debbie is thrilled to have her daughter back home where she belongs and we are thrilled to have Debbie back at work where she belongs.

So to celebrate, we are having a little surprise "Grandma Shower" for her tomorrow.
I made the favors tonight - pretzels dipped in white Guittard chocolate and sprinkled with chocolate. Over 50 pretzels dipped and bagged!

They look so cute - don't they? This is the blanket that I ordered for Riley off of Etsy. It has a yummy layer of chocolate brown minky. And I love that pattern.Some of the decorations that I put together. My friend Jonathan is bringing a few boxes of "Little Debbie" brand cakes and other work friends will bring surprises for Debbie.

I put this frame together. I found the framed mat at Target on sale for $3.00 - I added the pretty gerber daisy embellishment. And then, I went online to find the perfect quote to put in (since I don't have a photo of Riley. So perfect for Debbie who loves to cook.

"Grandmas never run out of hugs or cookies."

Isn't that the truth.

Where does the time go?

2009-02-21T00:09:00.000-08:00

You know that saying "where does the time go?"

Well, the answer to that question is here. It goes here. I spend an embarrassing amount of time on facebook. Imagine all of the time I could be out exercizing, feeding the poor, doing worldly good...Not to say that being an avid facebooker doesn't have its perks.

Facebook has given me the chance to find old friends and people who I have lost touch with. It feels so good to reconnect with people and I am so thankful to facebook for bringing some very dear people back into my life.

Tonight, while playing around on facebook, I found one of my all time favorite people - who we'll call Judi. Judi was so much more than my 6th grade teacher - she was a mentor, a role model, and a friend to me. I remember meeting her for the first time as an anxious, awkward 12 year old on my first day of Junior High. She must have sensed my "lost in the shuffle-ness" because she sort of took me under her wing. She helped me find my locker and showed me how to open the lock. She let me do things like make copies for her and run errands - she just knew how to make me feel important. All throughout Junior High and into High School (where she began teaching), she was a friend to me. We lost touch after I left PV to go to college, but I never forgot the kindness that she showed me. And I can hardly wait to thank her for it - eighteen years later, it still warms my heart.

I think Maya Angelou said it best -

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

Best Valentine's Day yet!

2009-02-15T00:40:00.000-08:00

We had an amazing Valentine's Day and I hope you did too. Whether it is a big surprise or some thoughtful little touch, it seems like a great day to show someone you love them. Tim and I had agreed not to do presents this year - just dinner and dessert. But of course, neither of us actually stuck to that pact. Tim bought this bag and didn't even realize it played music. Isn't he a hoot. It plays "More than words" from the band Extreme. Do any of you remember that song? And look at what I got!

An ipod.

I may be the last living person under 80 to own one. Cool, huh?

Tim went and got Indian food for us to enjoy. It was amazingly good as usual. For dessert, I took my first stab at Red Velvet cupcakes. I love getting out my Kitchen Aid mixer and I look ever so color coordinated since it is red and it is Valentine's Day. I actually am saving up for a silver one that I can leave out on the counter. The red clashes with my granite. Oh well, back to the cupcakes...It starts out looking like chocolate...

Then, voila! Red Velvet. Isn't is just gorgeous looking!!And the finished product. The only thing I would change is the cream cheese frosting recipe. This one was more like whipping cream than cream cheese. Not that its a bad thing. I just like that extra thick cream cheese texture on my red velvet.

Want a bite?

There is so much love in this house. And since Tim isn't so keen on posing, I found another willing participant.

XOXO, from our house to yours!

Things I learned after spending 10 Valentine's Days in a card store.

2009-02-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

So, most of you know that before I went to work for Williams-Sonoma, I spent 10 years working for American Greetings. AKA the center of the universe on Valentine's Day. Here is a list of things that I learned while I was in the epicenter of Valentine madness: 1. All that glitters...

Men think that buying a very expensave card with a lot of glitter and accoutrements is always the best way to go. For them, it is more about the way it looks than what it actually says. I promise you. For us girls, I think it is the exact opposite. Men, save your $7.00 and write a nice note. Seriously.

2. My Fuzzy Valentine?

Big bears with a heart sewn to them are king. No matter how many other classier (and less furry) options are available, some people just can't help themselves. They see the bear and the card and they just have to have them. Who are the girls (women?) that actually hope to receive a big furry bear.

3. One for my baby, and another one for the...

Mistress? I know this is hard to believe, but I actually witnessed men picking out a card for the wife AND a card for their mistress. Gross. Really gross.

So, my poor Tim has it tough because I don't really like ANY of the trappings of your traditional Valentine's Day. No red roses or bears or balloons for this girl. Luckily, he knows me well enough to know that Indian food take in, a movie, and some heart felt words really do the trick. And for him, a fun gift and a surprise dessert.

For Cora

2009-02-12T23:49:00.000-08:00

Where do I start. About a week ago, while checking out Julie's blog (Joy's Hope), I was touched by her post about a little girl named Cora who had just passed away. I went to Cora's mom's blog and read about her story and my heart ached for this sweet family. In lieu of flowers, the family wanted any donations to go towards building a playground in Cora's honor.

So, being the amazing person Julie is, she created a network of talented Etsyans who listed items that would benefit Cora's playground. I just know you will find something you have to have...

like this bracelet that I bought for myself tonight! So very cute. And at the same time, I know that I did something small to send love across the country and pay tribute to little Cora. If you would like to peruse the Etsy items that benefit Cora's playground, please see the pale pink button on my page.

Julie, you are my hero.

Dating is awful...

2009-02-11T22:56:00.000-08:00

But not quite as awful as this movie was... Not to say the message in it is not the real deal.

Dating is anything but fun and stress free.

It is lonely, desperate, calculating, and often disappointing.

I have been the girl waiting for the phone to ring.

And I have gone to bed with the phone just in case it rang.

And given up hope. And made an idiot of myself in the name of love.

And then, when I was least expecting it found something that was, as the movie says,

the exception and not the rule.

And the only dating advice that I could ever give is something I heard once on Oprah that I have kept with me ever since. And that is to "remember what yes feels like." Yes doesn't feel like maybe or kind of. Yes doesn't have a gray area. Yes is yes.

Oh and if you haven't seen the movie, I would pass.

I, pardon the pun, "just wasn't that into it."

Thank heaven...

2009-02-11T00:17:00.000-08:00

For some long awaited time off to spend as I please.

Being true to my New Year's resolution means using this time to do things that I really want to do. That means no obligatory things this week! Hooray!

So, you might ask, what is on the agenda for the next few days?

I'm going out to dinner tomorrow night with Tim, his mom, and his sister Erin.

Then, we are going to see this movie. Have you seen it yet?

I also made plans to go up and see my mom. I am going to take her to lunch and then, we are going to go antique shopping at one of our old haunts.

I haven't been to Memory Lanes in years - maybe even decades actually. I remember it as an absolute relic. This is the place where my love of antiques was born. The sheer randomness of it all was enough to occupy me for an afternoon. I remember there being a kid area up front that resembled a jail. I was so afraid of it as a kid. Luckily my mom never would have left me there. I wonder if the kid jail still exists? I will give you a full report.

I'm also planning on doing lots of walking and relaxing. I love just getting out in my neighborhood and exploring. It's my favorite thing to do these days. So far, I have had 3 deer sightings.

Dove Canyon Cottage is nestled in the heart of this amazing scenery. I am so blessed.

And since I will be walking so much, I will be able to indulge in this comfort food meal that I have been craving all week. I told Tim that I don't care what we do on Valentine's Day, but I want really good fish and chips for dinner. Oh, and tartar sauce. Lots and lots of tartar sauce.

And I think I will be hosting a giveaway since I have so much free time on my hands. More details to come on that, so check back with me this week.

Life is good...

2009-02-07T20:39:00.000-08:00

I can hear rain falling outside

and my whole house smells like chocolate.

Calories, Shmalories, right?

Love

2009-02-06T00:29:00.000-08:00

Staying up late. Waking up late. The smell of rain and the sound it makes.

Long walks. Fall. Leaves changing color. Pearls.

Snuggling with my cat.

Desserts. Slot machines. Memories. Pictures. Junking. Long baths.

Reading. Topiaries.

Solvang. Crafting. Cooking. Baking. Babies. Chippy paint. Baskets.

Believing in magic. Tim. Gardening.

Warm Blankets. Old Friends. New Friends. Family.

Old Music. Maple Donuts.

Scarves. French writing.

Yep, that just about sums it up.

Ten on Tuesday

2009-02-03T20:41:00.000-08:00

1. In the midst of wasting free time blogging today (come on, you know you do it too), I came across this blog http://www.kellyskornerblog.com/. Her story is really incredible. She spent quite a while battling infertility and now that her miracle baby is here, she is very ill. You should grab a few tissues and head over to her blog. Her baby Harper is just adorably sweet. It makes me afraid that I will have trouble having kids when Tim and I finally come around to deciding that it is the right time. So many people that I know have been battling infertility. It seems like such a heartbreaking journey.

2. I have been working like crazy with inventory at work. It is over and it went great. Hence, my day off to sleep and catch up.

3. I am taking about a week off over Valentine's Day. I haven't decided if I want to go anywhere or just spend the time soaking up the time to myself.

4. I have an itch to go antiquing on Sunday or next week. I am overdue for my fix!!

5. My little neice Zoe Rose is due in the next month. I can't wait to hold a new baby. Sigh..

6. We are starting up cooking classes at work this week - we haven't had one since November! I miss my cooking class regulars and all of the delicious food and inspiration. Thank goodness life will finally be back to normal after the holiday madness.

7. I am throwing a big Easter Egg hunt and bash at my house. I am going to start putting away fun things for the kiddos and collecting dollar bills to put into the eggs along with fun candy. Won't it be so fun! Time to get the garden ready.

8. Do you like going out on Valentine's Day? Tim and I are having this debate. I guess it was all of my years running greeting card stores on Valentine's Day that makes me want to enjoy this day in a peaceful, quiet way. Tim wants to "go out to dinner like everyone else." I like the thought of going away somewhere for the evening or eating in. I hate the idea of going out just to go out and being with massive crowds. What say you?

9. Jonathan gave me some beautiful meyer lemons. I am looking for a fun recipe to use them in. In the meantime, I sliced one up and put it in my water. Mmmm...

10. Tim has been travelling a lot for work. It makes me really appreciate the time we have together and how much I enjoy just sharing my life with someone.

What are you guys up to this week?

My happy place...

2009-01-30T21:54:00.000-08:00

Making dinner in my kitchen by candlelight.

Using my brand new Le Creuset for the first time (that I got for $14)

Listening to Big Band music and humming along.

Welcoming Tim home from a business trip and hearing his success stories.

Homemade beef stroganoff was just the icing on the cake.

Oh yeah, that's my happy place.

One word only...

2009-01-30T00:32:00.000-08:00

If your friends and family had to describe you in one word, what would it be?

Kind, thoughtful, giving, generous, loyal?

This was actually a little email game that went around with a few friends/family members. They sent you an email and you had to send back a one word email describing that person. Just one word. I really thought about it for the people that I sent the email to. And was able to perfectly fit what they mean to me into one perfect little package. One of my friends was "talented" and the other "sincere."

And when I got the emails back, it was fun to see what people thought of me.

One even said "savvy."

Me?

Savvy?

It also makes me want to be a better friend

- a better person -

because when people think of me

and think of a word to describe me,

I want it to be a good word.

Try it, I dare you!

What will your friends say about you?

The Crazy Animal Lady

2009-01-27T18:20:00.000-08:00

Dear Kind of Mean Lady with a Dog

on the path in Dove Canyon,

I'm sure that you thought I was trying to kidnap your dog today. I could not help it that I noticed your dog on the trail while I was walking and he was walking all by himself. I was going to be a good citizen and help him find his way home if he was lost. I said "here puppy, puppy" about 12 seconds before I saw you there. And you looked at me like I was a crazy dog napper. I didn't want your mangey old dog anyway.

Sincerely,

Anonymous Good Citizen/Dove Canyon Walker (me)

That is what I get for being such an animal person.

It reminded me of something similar that my mom did when I was little. We were driving home from school one day and saw a little white puppy on a sidewalk with no collar. We stopped and picked him up. I did what any 7 year old would do - convinced my mom that we should keep her. My mom made signs and posted them in our neighborhood. She said that if we didn't find the owner, we could keep her. I prayed that no one would call to retrieve the cute puppy, but of course, they did. We drove the puppy home and it just so happened that her "home" was the exact spot we had picked her up from. We actually un-intentionally kidnapped the dog from her own front yard! The owner said "she never leaves the yard, where did you find her?" My mom was too embarrassed to tell her the truth.

Mom, I know how it feels to be the crazy animal lady.

In the mood for love?

2009-01-21T23:50:00.001-08:00

I finally took down my last Christmas decoration - my beautiful fir wreath that I enjoyed all winter long. I decided to try out a craft that I have seen a few of you do out there in blogland. I decided to do something fun for my door for Valentine's Day.

Before:

(notice my antique heart ornament that I bought last year)

After:
As I was hanging it (and consequently admiring it), I could hear my neighbor's son and his girlfriend having a break up talk. She said she needed space and that she was having a hard time trusting people. Not that I was listening or anything.
Hope you are all having a good week, dear friends.

Watching History

2009-01-20T23:40:00.000-08:00

I am a Republican. I proudly displayed my McCain/Palin sign in my front yard for two months (even though McCain wasn't my ideal choice for a President.) I didn't vote for Barack Obama. And I certainly didn't anticipate feeling hope over his inauguration.

Yet I really do.

And when I watched the inauguration today, I cried two times. Once when I saw the soldiers marching in tune to "Yankee Doodle Dandy" and felt so connected to my country's history and so proud to be an American. And once watching Michelle Obama look at her husband with wonder as they danced. As though, their lives and their hopes had come to full fruition in that instant. Who wouldn't be proud to be an American on such a day as this.

Bliss

2009-01-14T17:55:00.000-08:00

If you ever find yourself in Pasadena or San Marino, Ca, you simply have to make time to stop by Julienne. It is one part french bistro, one part foodie heaven with a little bit of amazing bakery thrown in the mix. Luckily for me, Tim just happened to have some business in Pasadena today. And remembered that his fiancee loves herself a good dessert. So, this is all mine.

Oh, lemon coconut bar, you will just about wipe out any of the good that my hour long walk did me today.

Honey, I imploded the sink.

2009-01-14T00:05:00.000-08:00

Now, I know that none of you would be silly enough to peel a whole bag of these babies... and then run those slimy old skins down your garbage disposal, right?
I mean everyone knows that potato skins clog up a sink, right?
Well, let's just say that I was the one person in America who did not realize this very important fact. So, instead of sitting back while my osso bucco was slow cooking on Sunday, I was busy trying to fix my sink to avoid having to call Joe the Plumber.
Tim, as we know, is not Mr. Fix-It. He pulled out the "BIG BOOK OF HOME OWNER HOW-TO's" that his dad bought him for his birthday, but they didn't have a solution for us. We found out online that you can take the sink trap off, which we did, but the sink was still clogged. (Ugly plumbing bill was looming). So, I googled solutions and figured out that the solution was right there in my pantry.

So, if some bonehead in your house ever jams a dozen potato peels down your drain, just use the following steps to take care of the problem.

1. Dump a box of this down the drain.
2. Then pour a bottle of this down there

3. Run some hot water.

4. Watch bubbly magic science-experiment style volcanic eruption happen in your sink.

5. Thank the google gods for cheap natural solutions to silly self-imposed problems.

On "When are you and Tim getting married" and why January reminds me of divorce.

2009-01-10T17:15:00.000-08:00

I got divorced on a day just like today in January of 2005 - four years ago this month. The divorce was really the final step in a really long, agonizing process that began about four months earlier. I think that is what made it so difficult is that it really was the last step and was so final. I woke up that morning and went for my first walk ever - not sure what prompted me to do that. I just needed to get out and get some fresh air. I needed to think about what was going on in my life. As I walked, I looked at the flowers, noticed things about the trail that I drove by every day but had never really seen. And I thought of a quote that I loved but had never really had any meaning until that day...

"How sweet the roadside flowers would be, if they did not mean goodbye to you old friend."

After my walk, I got really dressed up - as if to say - look what you will be missing. I drove to the divorce place - the place where all the non-magic happens. It was a small office in Orange located on the second floor of a two-story building. The bottom floor was a paintball store. Derek and I had decided to meet there and sign the paperwork together. I actually insisted that we do it that way. Mostly because I really just wanted to see him one last time. And because I wanted him to see the pain this whole process had caused.

Signing divorce papers is like someone handing you a paper that says "I screwed up" with a big x at the bottom. It felt like that then and in so many ways, it still does. I don't remember much about the process exept that I asked for tissue becaue I was crying and they didn't have any. I remember being so shocked that a place that specialized in divorce paperwork wouldn't have tissues. Like I was the first person who had ever cried there. In my mind, they should have it set up and stocked with things to make you feel better - like tissues, and chocolate, and cute single men who wouldn't break your heart. They had none of these things.

Four years later, in my new life with my amazing fiancee, it is not every day that I think about things like this. But I still do, and it still stings. Not the way it did then, but in the way that this was my life, and I have scars from my past.

As I was walking today, I thought about it and reflected a little. Four years later, I have the scars. I also have my walks which I have been taking ever since that day. And I still stop and smell the flowers, or at least notice them.

So, when people ask when Tim and I are getting married, this is why I don't have a date planned. Or at least part of the reason. I love Tim and want to get married again. I really do. But it is difficult to jump in - again - knowing what the first time looked like. It is also challenging because Tim wants a big wedding and well, that is traumatic for me too, for obvious reasons. Instead, when people ask, so I don't have to expose my poor struggles to the world, I say "Oh, we've just been so busy."

Number 6

2009-01-09T21:28:00.000-08:00

So my blog buddy Melissa over at Sunbonnet Cottage let me know that I had been "meme'd." I rushed on over to her blog to find out exactly what this meant and it turns out that the idea is to open your sixth folder in your pictures and post the sixth picture in that folder. This way, you may be able to learn a little more about your blogging buddies from seeing some of their photos.

So, this is mine. I took this picture when Tim and I visited Boston last year. He is a lifelong Boston fan and had never been to Fenway. It was a really fun evening (even though Boston lost). I loved this picture so much that I had it blown up in black and white and framed it for Tim for Christmas last year. I love the way the sun sort of glows through the windows - it looks so cool in black and white.

Melissa, thanks for tagging me and I challenge each of you to accept the challenge. What is your 6th picture of?

Just say...no?

2009-01-03T21:20:00.000-08:00

I've always made pretty superficial New Year's resolutions - in fact most of them have been to either stick to a diet, or to exercise more, eat healthier - you get the idea. And although I could certainly stand to do all of those things, my resolution this year is different. I am saying NO - to over doing, to putting so much into things that don't give much back, to saying yes to things that I really don't feel much like doing. For example, on New Year's Eve, we went to a party and everyone was asked to bring an appetizer. Kristin in 2008 would have made something fancy from scratch and expended a lot of time and energy. Kristin in 2009 ordered some take out from a local restaurant and put it on a pretty platter. No one noticed that I hadn't labored over the food and it saved me time and trouble. Amazing, isn't it? I feel really relieved by not putting so much pressure on myself.
Do me (and yourselves) a favor and try it.
Next time you start doing something you don't feel like doing ---Say no!
I promise you will thank me.

Bonne Annee

2008-12-30T21:16:00.000-08:00

Dear 2o08,

You were quite a year, my friend. You brought some amazing things into our lives - a new home, our nephew Baby Ryan, our niece Zoe who is on the way, and of course, my engagement with Tim. (No wonder I feel tuckered out, a lot did happen this year). You were full of good health and a lot of happy moments. And while so many people are ready for you to be over, I for one think you were pretty swell. Well, except for that whole economy thing. But what are a few billion, trillion dollars between friends, right? 2009, I can't wait to see what you have in store. A marriage, maybe a baby?

Who can say for sure?

2009, please treat us well. Keep my family and friends healthy and happy.

Cheers to all of you - I hope this year is your best yet!

No words...

2008-12-26T20:18:00.001-08:00

I will spare you all of the unpleasant details and just say that our Christmas Day was nothing short of a series of unfortunate events. After a rediculously awful day, Tim and I came home and I went to bed. At 4AM, we were rocked out of our sound sleep by pounding on our front door. When we got downstairs, there was just a business card from the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner. My heart dropped - I immediately began calling my parents to make sure they were okay while Tim tried to reach the number on the business card. I just was frantic thinking that someone in my family or Tim's family had been hurt or worse. I don't know that I've ever been so scared. By the time we got a hold of the sheriff's station, we learned that a wayward teenager had been caught breaking into cars on our street and they were trying to find out whose presents he had stolen. It just so happened that all of our wrapped presents were still in Tim's car (because after the dabaucle of the day, I didn't even want them in my house!) Thankfully, nothing of ours has been taken that we know of.
I am sad that evil people were able to ruin the spirit of Christmas for me this year. After I visited my friend Julie's blog tonight, I was touched by her husband's Christmas message and reminded of the goodness and pure meaning of this holiday. I am looking forward to a better couple of days ahead.

Christmas Musings

2008-12-25T00:05:00.001-08:00

Hello and Merry Christmas from our little Dove Canyon Cottage. It has been a busy couple of days around here but I just couldn't cuddle up and fall asleep without visiting you all and sharing some fun photos of Christmas as it is coming together.

I wrapped my last few gifts - and put a fun little box of pink goodness together for my niece Zoe who is due late Feb/early March. Oh boy, is she in for a lot of attention - being the first girl in the family. Hence, the rediculously expensave damask shoes that I just had to buy for her. Cute, aren't they? Etsy, you rock my world.

What doesn't rock my world is Tim's affinity for buying gifts that are impossible to wrap. I buy the adult gifts, he buys the kiddo gifts. For some reason, nothing that he buys is square, and if it is, it is so big it takes ten rolls of paper to cover it. He really outdid himself with these night vision binoculars he bought for our nephew Zack. Is that not the most impossible thing to wrap ever? And it doesn't help when your cat is hanging out in the middle of it all. Breathe, Kristin, Breathe...
But look how lovely they all look, nestled under our tree.

After I finished wrapping, we headed out to Tim's mom Marsha's house in Coto to celebrate with them since we will be with my fam tomorrow. Her house looked so lovely, decked perfectly for the season. Here are Shane, Zack, and Drew enjoying some treats! Tim's mom made a traditional Italian Christmas Eve dinner followed by opening presents.

Our boy Zack in his pajamas - he loved handing out the gifts.And of course, my little Shane - he is the sweetest of the boys in Tim's family, I am telling you. He loved helping me open my presents.

And our little godson Ryan - dreaming of sugarplums after an evening of Christmas magic.

"And I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight - Merry Christmas to All, and to All a Good Night!"

Guess what I watched tonight...

2008-12-21T23:22:00.000-08:00

I couldn't love this movie any more. In fact, even more than the movie, I love the music. And Judy Garland...everything she sings is magic. I wrapped gifts and sang along. Just a few more days to get everything done! Be back tomorrow.

Five on Friday (the "it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas" version

2008-12-20T00:12:00.000-08:00

1. It has been a crazy week! Every Christmas, I start questioning my own sanity and wishing I had a job that enabled me to enjoy the season a little more. But, truth be told, I love the hustle and bustle of it all. I had the day off today and I feel recharged and ready to tackle the next few days.

2. I "guilt" baked some cookies tonight. Tim told me that a lady at his corporate office was baking holiday cookies and he asked her if she was making these babies... He told her how much he loves them and she said she would try to send him some. That made me feel guilty, so I decided to bite the bullet and make them myself. What a crummy fiancee I am. They turned out pretty though, didn't they?

3. I am so excited to be so prepared with my shopping this year. I am like 90% done with my list. I just have to pick up Tim's gift and something for my boss and then I am done. I even have about half of them wrapped. So unlike me. I am usually my mom's girl, running around like an idiot at the last minute and then speed wrapping on Christmas Eve. Not this year!!

4. I got a really fun surprise in the mail today. My cousin Katerin in Greece sent me a really lovely Christmas card and a beautiful calendar with photos of Crete, the island that my dad is from in Greece. What a treat! I told Tim that that is my favorite part of Christmas - little surprises full of thought that you aren't expecting. Cousin, you made my day and reminded me of the spirit of the season. Thanks so much! I can't wait to hang it up and remember your kindness when I look at it.

5. My Christmas cards are done! I know, I am so late. They will go in the mail in the morning and arrive probably on Christmas Eve. Better late than never, right?
And here is one for you, my dear blog friends

Thanks for being such a special part of my life.

Kristin

"Save a little wine for the bread" Bread

2008-12-11T22:46:00.000-08:00

You know those recipes that you just pull out for the holidays. Like they would be completely out of place any other time of year...well this is one of those. We got this recipe from my mom's friend Marge when I was a little kid. It is amazing. This was my first shot at making it myself. I haven't had it in about 10 years - it was just as good as ever. Tim is convinced that it could be made way more often than once a year!

Here's what you need:

For the cake:

1 package yellow cake mix with pudding in the mix
1 small package vanilla instant pudding mix
4 eggs
¾ cup vegetable oil
¾ cup sherry
1 tbsp. Almond extract
2 tsp. Nutmeg
1/3 cup poppy seeds

For the Glaze:

2 tbsp. Melted butter
3 tbsp. Sherry
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
½ tsp. Nutmeg

Directions Beat together all ingredients (except for poppy seeds) for 10 minutes by hand. Add poppy seeds. Pour into 2 9x5 inch loaf pans or 4 mini loaf pans (greased). Bake at 325 degrees for 40 minutes. When cooled, remove from pans and pour glaze over tops.

I know what you are thinking, rediculously easy, right?

The only catch is the poppy seeds - evidently they are really expensave - I've never bought them before. I did a double batch and spent $9.00 on poppy seeds!!

Poppy seeds - $9.00

Other ingredients - $12.00

Recreating a family favorite in your own home while listening to Christmas music

- Totally Priceless.

Oh, and evidently they freeze well. Not that any of my loaves will make it that long!!

So, your turn - what is a traditional family food you always eat at Christmas time?

The Road Not Taken

2008-12-10T19:55:00.000-08:00

Last spring, I left a job that I loved dearly at a company I had worked for and been loyal to for over ten years. I left at the peak of my career, after being given a position that I had worked a whole decade to get. I left because I saw the future of my beloved company was in jeopardy - the entire greeting card industry in fact - seemed in jeopardy. Good old fashioned cards and letters have long been replaced by texts, e-cards, and email. One day I had to tell a woman in her early sixties who had been with the company for nearly twenty years (who coincidentally had heart problems) that her store was closing. I had shopped at her store with my mom when I was a little child and here I was, two decades later telling her that she was going to be jobless. It was probably the worst day of work I have ever had to do. After closing nearly 15 stores, I started looking for a different company to grow with. I knew that I couldn't buy a house knowing that my career was unstable.

I accepted my current position in June 2007. It was the hardest choice I've ever made - because I loved my job. I loved my boss - I've never had a mentor that I loved or treasured the way I loved her. I put in my notice via email, got on a plane to Washington state (for work) and by the time I got off the plane, my phonemail was full of messages - asking me not to leave. After a lot of agonizing, I decided to leave. My new job was a step down from my "big fish in a little pond" status that I had at my old company. I went to a place where no one knew me, knew my accomplishments, or my abilities. It was amazingly difficult and I honestly have regretted leaving at times when my job has gotten difficult or I have missed being a part of my old familiar company. But I knew today would come.

Today, I found out that nearly 300 employees were let go, including my dear friend Erik who really was "one of the good guys." Thirty more stores are planned to close, and I worry that the rest can't be too far behind. It hurts to see something that I loved so dearly and worked so hard for start to fail. I invested ten years of my life to help that company make it. It seems like it is for nothing. I think about the days I spent at the corporate office and all of the friends I had there. I wonder which 300 people it was. Which faces, which names, which departments. I worry about the rest of my friends and my poor boss who I care for so much. My heart is heavy.

And yet, I am so thankful for making the decision that I made a year and a half ago. I know me and I would not be able to make it with the stress of so many friends being let go and worrying if I was next. Please pray for my friends at American Greetings. I have never known a better group of people. So much of who I am is because of them - their leadership, their guidance, their friendship. May God bless them and keep them all in his sight.

Sweet Little Reminder

2008-12-10T10:37:00.000-08:00

When we decorated the tree on Sunday, I came across this. Tim and I decided to hang it as a little reminder of our girl and how much we love her. We both said that if she were here, she would be hanging out right under the tree - she loved this time of year. I hope she is lounging under a big Christmas tree in heaven and I hope they forgive her just like we did when she knocked a few ornaments down here and there.

Perfection!

2008-12-07T22:03:00.001-08:00

I have dreamed of having a house to decorate for Christmas for as long as I can remember. I walked into my house for the first time right about this time last year. I remember driving up at night with our realtor and seeing every house on our street brightly lit with decorations. Our lonely house was the only one without any holiday spirit - empty and waiting for someone to come and make it beautiful. I remember standing in the future baby room (upstairs where the wreath is) and looking out into the neighborhood, knowing that it would be our home. We made our offer on December 9th and on December 12th they told us that they had accepted an all cash offer that we just could not match. We were devastated. Then, the next day, they called and said that the offer had fallen through and that the house was ours. And so it was, and is. I am so thankful that it is ours - sometimes I can still hardly believe we live here! Doesn't it just look perfect, all lit up for Christmas? Tim did a fabulous job - not too shabby for his first attempt at hanging outdoor lights. I bought that wreath for $5.00 at Home Depot after Christmas last year and could not wait to put it up! I love a good bargain. Wishing you Christmas cheer, from our home to yours.

Look at this face...

2008-12-06T21:43:00.000-08:00

My nephew Nick - clearly someone hasn't told this boy that the man in the beard brings gifts...lots and lots of gifts! When I saved this photo, I titled it "bravery" because that is what I see in his little face. Nick, I hope that someday you love visiting Santa as much as Auntie K used to (it was like my favorite thing to do!) and I hope you won't be upset with me for printing this picture and framing it. Boo boo face and all.

Cottage Style Christmas...Brought to Life

2008-12-02T23:30:00.000-08:00

I have always been a red and silver kind of girl when it comes to Christmas decorating. That all changed when I got inspired by some of my fellow bloggers last holiday season. I fell in love with the bottle brush trees and pastel colored houses that are the trademark of Cottage Christmas decorating. Last year for Christmas, my mom surprised me with a whole collection of about 12 of these houses that she had hunted down at homegoods and at antique stores. I packed them up knowing that I would be able to use them in my new house this year. When I told my mom that I wanted to do a whole room themed with the houses for Christmas, she began collecting the ornaments for me too. This past weekend, she gave me about two dozen ornaments including about a dozen that she had originally bought for herself. What a gift. She even had a spare white artificial tree that she donated to the cause. Is it not just incredible?Aren't the houses just too special and precious?

And at the bottom of the bag of ornaments - hand chosen and given to me with so much love was this small silver ornament - totally out of place with my little houses and yet it symbolizes everything my tree means to me. I hung it up with my houses as if to tell the story of the tree- built with love.
Mom, I hope this room and the tree do your beautiful houses justice. Thank you for
helping me bring my cottage Christmas to life.

Rockband?!

2008-12-02T02:14:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard of the video game Rockband? Well, if you haven't, you aren't alone. I don't think I had ever heard of it before about three weeks ago when I got invited to...what else...a Rockband Party! My friend Charlie (fellow GM) invited a few friends from work including myself and I just had to go. We each had to bring an appetizer, so this was one of two dishes that I brought...
The Mama Cass Ham Sandwich And Elvis' favorite - peanut butter and banana sandwiches. I had to keep with the rock theme, right? I have to say, I had a great time. I sang a few songs and played a lot of plastic guitar. Guess you had to be there. Happy December 1st (now December 2nd) to you all.
PS - I decorated my shabby chic Christmas room. I can't wait to show you pics and tell you the story of how my tree came to be. Get your tissues ready.

Things I'm Thankful For (The I can't eat another bite edition)

2008-11-27T20:33:00.000-08:00

1. I'm thankful for simple moments and the joy I find in them. I had one this morning - downstairs in my pajamas, baking my cobbler in my beautiful kitchen, looking out the window at my garden still wet with rain from earlier this morning. And my beautiful hot pink roses that seemed to be enjoying the first rain of the season. Or the other day while I was walking and saw the trees filled with the most breathtaking fall leaves, all golden yellow and vibrant red, I just had to take a few home with me. I don't think I've picked up a leaf in twenty years, maybe more. Simple moments.

2. I'm thankful for my family - that my family is healthy and that we sat around the table for yet another year and like always, didn't eat a bite until my mom said grace. No one could sum up a year of thankfulness in a few sentences like that lady (and she makes a mean dinner, too.) I'm thankful for my sweet nephew Nick, who let me hold him today (he is almost two, so that doesn't always come easily). I love playing hide and seek with him and hearing him mutter his first few words - today I heard bird and ball. So cute! I'm thankful for little Zoe who is on the way and all of the pinky, fluffy goodness that will come with the first girl in the family.

3. I'm thankful for my Tim and the gift of finding a true partner in life. It isn't always glamorous or perfect, but at the end of the day, we really love each other. Who else would go to three grocery stores to try to track down the right fruit for my cobbler. And I'm thankful for his family who has been so warm and welcoming to me from the very beginning. We are so lucky to have them all close by.

4. I'm thankful for my friends, including all of you, my fellow "blogging" friends. You make me feel heard and I love to stop by and visit you at the end of my day.

5. And lastly, I'm thankful for my Rio, who is so much more than just a cat. She is a trusted friend and companion. Rio, you are a furry little bundle of unconditional love and entertainment.

I hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving and that in the craziness of the day, you had a chance to stop and think of the things and people you are thankful for. Many blessings to you and your families, my dear friends.

Dear Santa...

2008-11-21T18:54:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

I have been really, really good (okay, marginally good) this year. As for that no crying or pouting thing, I am working on it. I know you understand, after all, we have a lot in common. You have a factory of elves, I have a factory of elves. Your stomach jiggles like a bowl full of jelly, and well, things on my body jiggle too. I know it has nothing to do with those maple donuts I love so much. Anyway, I thought you might need a little help shopping for this very deserving girl this year, so here is my list. Santa, I hope you have a good laptop and a credit card, because this list is meant for internet shopping!

Okay, how cool is this flatware set. Santa, you know I love to entertain, so I probably need 2-3 sets. You can find them at www.ballarddesigns.com.

I love these handstamped bracelets from www.etsy.com - at kathrynriechert's shop. I want mine to say "noblesse oblige." Get out your french-english dictionary, Santa. Merci.
And because a girl can never have too many french themed bangles, I think I need this one too.
You can find this also on www.etsy.com at dreamsandjewelry's shop.

And what good would 2 french themed bracelets be without this super fabulous fleur necklace. So while you are on www.etsy.com, check it out at kellyevansdesign.

Now that I will have perfect accessories, I thought I would wish for a few cute things for my house. Like this

or this...with my address of course. You DO know where I live, don't you Santa?

These can be found on www.etsy.com at familyattic. I wouldn't blame you if you ordered one for yourself. They are totally darling.

And last but not least, these glasses have been on my wish list for years. I can't really believe that I haven't broken down and bought them myself. I love the double old fashioned size. And don't tell any of my WS friends, but you can buy these at www.surlatable.com.

Santa, if you don't like any of these options, I am always up for gift cards to my favorite haunts - Homegoods, Steinmart, and WS/Pottery Barn. I also think I might like to join the rest of the world and own an ipod for my walks. I don't need it to be super fancy - in fact the more basic, the better- but I would prefer a silver one. AND, I am working on making a shabby chic tree this year for my living room mostly done in whites, creams, and pale turqouise. So, if you find anything that would look cute with that, feel free to drop it down my chimney.

Oh and Santa, Tim is difficult to shop for. You know it and I know it. He loves gift cards - Men's Warehouse, Best Buy, or Bluewater Grille - they are to Tim what Homegoods is to me.

So, what's on your list this year?

Giving Thanks

2008-11-20T22:35:00.000-08:00

It has been a crazy week! I don't know about you all, but I am officially ready for the weekend (which starts tomorrow for me!) I have been working morning, noon, and night to get all of the pieces into place for my executive visit today. It went off without a hitch and I just can't explain how relieved I feel. It was worth every bit of effort to see the looks on their faces - just so great! Tonight, I am so greatful for all of my amazing employees who worked their little hearts out so that I could shine today. I am blessed with a group of very talented miracle workers. And of course, my partner Jonathan - who holds me together and helps me find humor in the madness. I couldn't do it without you, my dear friend.

In keeping with the spirit of Thankfulness, I thought I would share my super cute front door sign. It is one of my fall treasures - hand crafted by the extremely talented Julie of Joy's Hope blog and etsy shop. I could hardly wait to hang it after I finished taking down all of my Halloween decor. If you haven't been over yet, check out Julie's blog and more importantly her etsy shop. She just added lots of fun signs for the holiday season - they are totally affordable, handmade, and make great gifts! Julie, you rule girl.

Words

2008-11-15T01:09:00.000-08:00

I've been having a tough go of things lately. Some pieces of my life have not been fitting

quite right - if that makes sense. I have been holding on to some bitterness and letting some pretty silly things weigh me down. I have felt really alone lately and feeling what I can only describe as a "disconnect" with some people that I really love. I need to bridge that gap somehow, but I haven't been able to figure out how that would happen.

I've been carrying a lot of things with me that I should simply set down gently for my own heart's sake. And be honest with people I love and with myself.

My relationship with my family has been so strained lately. I want more than anything for my parents to see who I am, to get to know me as something more than the child they knew. Months and days and years that they do not see when they see me.

The child they see who needs to look both ways when she crosses the street, buckle up in the car, go to the dentist and carry cash just in case.

The woman who runs a business, owns a house, and hasn't carried cash for years.

And has survived anyway.

And I wish I knew them - and I mean really knew them. I want to ask my mom what her dreams are - for herself - now. Because her life (as all of our lifes are) is still a work in progress. And she is so much more than just my brother, my sister, my dad, and I. I want to know what, if anything, of herself that she sees in me. Her loves and losses - probably so many similar to my own - and yet she seems to never understand the ways that love has made me make stupid choices. Stupid choices that she too made once upon a time. That no one, no amount of caution or parental advice can save someone from making. The choices that make a life. That make a person. That defined my character and made me stronger and wiser. And how it hurts when she seems ashamed of my mistakes because I am not.

And to tell her how much our summer nights together meant growing up, when we talked and laughed and were friends. Wrapped up in a blanket, sitting on the balcony together, just the two of us. Playing cards every night in the big room until I finally won on my own.

And that if I could, I would go back in time, and be there, even if it was just for a night.

And how impossible that seems.

And how sad that makes me.

And how anytime I do, well, just about anything - I over do! Because she always did. Bigger and better than everyone else - even if it means more time, more energy, more whatever. The daughter of an over-achiever, perfectionist - I see my mother when I take on too much, try too hard, give more than I have to give just because it is worth it to be the best sometimes.

I want to ask my dad what it was like to step off of an airplane and begin a life in a place he had never been. Alone. And to tell him that I am proud of the life he made for us - from so little. When I tell people how my dad came to the US and about the life he built, they are always amazed. He lived the American dream. And yet, when I tell the story, it is filled with so many gaps of things that I do not know, that he has never talked about.

Maybe he doesn't realize I would even want to know.

And how when I work hard (and I mean really hard) I look back and remember him going to work and never complaining about how long his days were. And how even though I wish he had been home more, I am so greatful to have had a dad who showed me that nothing really takes the place of working hard for things.

And yet I let hours and days and months and years go by.

And never say the words.

Why is it so hard to say those words, words that need to be said

but somehow cannot ever be properly said. And how when we talk,

we don't really say anything worth saying.

And all of these layers of words lay beneath and we somehow leave them there every time.

I'd rather say too much than say too little and wish I had somehow said it all.

Good Friendship, Good Food, Good Wine!

2008-11-07T22:49:00.001-08:00

Tim is in Atlanta on business, so my friend Deana came over to catch up on life and have a fun evening in. Deana has been one of my very best friends for the eleven years that we have known one another. She is fun, loyal, kind, giving, and so easy to talk to. I honestly don't know how I would have survived the last decade of my life without her! When we get together, we talk for hours on end, so we decided to do dinner at my house - mostly to avoid scowling waitresses who glare at us for tying up their tables for such a long time!

I prepared the fare for the evening -

Thanksgiving style panini sandwiches with cranberry-orange sauce.

A fall salad with cranberries, pears and goat cheese - dressed with a balsamic dressing.

Deana brought the wine - as you can tell, we had some.

If you've never had Sofia before, get yourself a friend, and a bottle and enjoy.

It is a sparkling white wine - just divinely good! I think the bottle is so pretty, I saved it. It would make a lovely vessel for flowers, no?

Carrot Cake - compliments of Trader Joes - totally effortless and delish.

My fur friend Rio says it was "paw" lickin' good.

All Around Great Day!

2008-11-05T19:16:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends!

I hope you are all doing well. I had a lovely, restful day off today. I finished taking down and packing up all of my Halloween decorations. It is always sad to see them go - the house looks so empty between Halloween and Christmas - my two big decorating holidays! I have a few fun things for fall/thanksgiving - including these adorable plates that I bought at Homegoods a few weeks ago. I also found this super cool vintage looking stand that the plate looks cute on. I bought 3 sets because I thought they would be ideal for serving pumpkin pie on someday when Tim and I host our first Thanksgiving. Speaking of food we love, I thought I would do something mean and cruel (mostly to my sister who will see these pictures and CRAVE this food until she can get some for herself) and post pics of the dinner we had tonight. For some reason, we all love Indian food - if you haven't tried it before, you have no idea what you are missing. It is divine!Samosas filled with potato, onions, peas, and fennel.
Alu Ghobi (cauliflower and potato in a heavenly sauce - Tim's favorite!)
Naan - clay oven bread baked to perfection. YUM!

Not a bite left in the house. We ate at the table by candlelight and listened to Christmas music. It takes so little to amuse us.

Author's Note: The Indian food is from Clay Oven Restaurant in Irvine, which has been a great OC find. I am originally from North Orange County - I used to go to Maharaja Palace in Tustin - which is also super fabulous. Have not tried that one in Corona Del Mar, but we love to go to the beach for dinner, so it is on my list. Thanks!

One last look...

2008-11-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

So, one last look at our Halloween - I have to say it was such a great night. My party was so much fun and I got a ton of compliments from neighbors (and even trick or treaters) on our decorations. This was something that I put together at the last minute, but I actually think it was my favorite decoration of the night. It was suspended from a shepard's hook on the walkway that leads up to my house. I called it "Dead Man's Stew" And I was so busy playing the happy hostess all night, I only got one pic - this cute shot of Ryan and I. He was such a darling little bat, but the costume came off super quickly because it was so hot. That's what you get when you celebrate Halloween in Southern California.
I can't wait to hear all about how you all spent the evening. Happy November 1st to you all.

Making Halloween Magic!

2008-10-31T09:34:00.000-07:00

Oh, I have been so busy for the last 24 hours getting everything together for tonight's big party. I thought I would share some pictures with you -

These are my magic wands that I love to make on Halloween. They are pretzel rods dipped in milk and white chocolate. So easy, so festive, so delicious!

I think the white chocolate ones look the prettiest.
Letting the chocolate set. I serve them on a big tray over a bed of shredded coconut that I dye green with food coloring. I will show you the finished product later.

I thought I would share this too - I used my fixed up table to make a makeshift bar for neighbor friends that pop by. I think it turned out extremely cute (almost as cute as my baby Rio hanging out in every picture I take!)

Pumpkin-tinis anyone?

And rumor has it that most of our neighbors give away the big candy bars to our trick-or treaters, so Tim stocked up on candy yesterday.

Rio, checking out the options.

Voted most likely to wind up in my mouth - this guy!

Wish me luck with my party! I can't wait to see and hear about all of your Halloween fun!

Fun Night Out

2008-10-26T15:06:00.000-07:00

We had a fun night out in Dove Canyon last night! It was our neighbor's bi-annual Halloween bash and since we are the new guys on the block, we just had to go and meet some more locals. After work, I got busy putting one of my appetizer platters together to bring. By the way, if you haven't had St.Andre cheese before, you simply must try it. It's like buttah, I promise.This is the hostess gift I brought for the Lushes. It is a lovely wine decanter I bought at Pottery Barn. I had fun embellishing the package with some fall sprigs and these super cool "Boo" tags I ordered from etsy.
And we had a ton of fun putting our costumes together. I decided to go as the "merry widow" complete with a sassy black veil that I made, a black feather boa, a fake deed to the house, and a black rose bouquet that I jazzed up with some fluffy black maribou feathers.

And no merry widow costume is complete without the ultimate accessory - a dead husband. Tim took a sword, cut it in half, and put it going into the back of his shirt and coming out of the front with a squirt or two of fake blood. Thank God he doesn't really have to put on make-up every day - he hasn't mastered how to not get it in your hair. HA!

I wish I could have taken some photos inside the Lushes house, but I didn't want to look like a tourist. It was decorated so incredibly for Halloween - not an inch of it was left undecorated. Just amazing! My favorite part of the party was a huge bar complete with glow in the dark martinis. Tim and I got to meet some very fun neighbors - and we got invited to the block party on Halloween night! We had a blast and the best part - when it was all over, we walked home - just four houses down! How cool is that?

Hope you are finding time to have some ghoulish fun too!

Let's Party

2008-10-22T00:39:00.001-07:00

Oh, I love the neighborhood I live in. Just take a look at this amazingly fun invitation that was waiting on my porch when I got home from work tonight! Isn't it the coolest thing you've ever seen!

The Lush family lives about four houses down from us. I admire her beautiful garden when I go for my walks in the afternoon. She has the most gorgeous flowers and it seems like everything is always in full bloom around her house. I haven't ever gotten to meet her though - the lady behind the flowers. And just look at the sweet note she wrote to us inside the invitation.

Needless to say, we are so there. To be completely honest, I really need to get out there and meet some new people. I have been so busy with work lately and have lost touch with a lot of friends as a result of busy lives and just life in general which has taken us all in different directions. Hopefully, I will make a friend or two.
So, now I have to find a costume worthy of such a bash. Any ideas?

This year's pink

2008-10-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

"It's really a sharp hat!

Don't you think?

You know black...
It's this year's pink!"

Around the house...

2008-10-19T18:33:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends! It has been a busy and fun week here in Dove Canyon - so much work to do and of course, the ever fun Halloween Blog Party that Vanessa hosted yesterday. I enjoyed catching up on so many of your blogs (while Tim hooted and hollared through the Red Sox game.) Your creativity, imagination, and craftiness amaze me. Thank you for sharing your Halloween magic!

So, I spent the day tooling around with the outside of my house - getting ready for the big party we are hosting on Halloween night. My neighborhood is very into decorating and well, a girl has got to keep up, right?

You should see how cool this looks with the orange lights lighting up the tree in the dark -

I found these huge glitter ornaments at Shinoda on Wednesday with my mom. I think they are the coolest - they look perfect in this barren tree in my front yard.
And, after three hours of painting, my shabby old table that I inherited from Tim's dad looks perfectly new and adorable. This was my first real painting project - it was hard work, but I had fun and it was so worth it. Not too bad for $11.00 worth of paint supplies, don't you think? If you would like to see the table's before photo, I posted a pic of it a while back.

I hope your Sunday has been just as fun and restful as ours was here in Dove Canyon.

Welcome to the Party!

2008-10-18T00:16:00.000-07:00

We've been anxiously awaiting your arrival.We've worked a little black magick for you this evening.

Good Old Jack put on his party hat for the occasion

And this little guy spun up a web of fun.Miss Matilda put on her best pearls.

It really is a charmed life here in Dove Canyon!

Let us drink a toast to All Hallow's Eve, the most magical night of the year.

Spiders and ghosts and witches galore - but let's not be full of fear.

For at the Dove Canyon bash, there will be only fun and laughter.

We shall have an evening to remember for the 355 days here-after.

A special thanks to Vanessa at Fanciful Twist for hosting this fun party.

Let's do it again next year!

Isn't it the cutest?

2008-10-16T23:53:00.000-07:00

This quilt is a giveaway on the blog Pigtails and Snails.

It would be perfect in my guest room. Cross your fingers for me!

Now That's Scary!!

2008-10-16T23:05:00.000-07:00

These just might be the scariest pumpkins I've ever seen! Thanks Better Homes & Gardens!

Star Struck

2008-10-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

There is something about being in the same room as a celebrity that makes people...a little...well - starstruck! I got to see that first hand today at the Giada DeLaurentiis book signing at South Coast Plaza. As many of you know, I work for Williams-Sonoma and was lucky enough to be invited to help out with the event today. Giada's fans arrived at the store bright and early this morning to get in line to have their books signed. There were even some die hard fans that came without tickets and cried when they found out they couldn't get in!

Wow! I was blown away by the dedication and tenacity of these fans.

Over 500 of Giada's closest fans lined up throughout the mall in a line that went through the mall and even outside as you can see here -

I got to work at the entry desk, giving Giada's fans their books and helping them find their way to the line. I also got to see the many excited fans leaving with their mission accomplished - a signed copy of Giada's newest book Giada's Kitchen. She was so terrific with the customers, the children who came to see her, and all of us who work for Williams-Sonoma. She honestly could not have been nicer. I saw her several times flipping through the book to show pictures to the children and taking the time to say hello to each fan as she signed their books. She took a picture with our WS group at the end and I got to stand next to her! I'm so not the type to get star-struck but I couldn't help but feel a little excited by the fanfare of it all.
If Giada ever comes to your town, I highly recommend paying her a visit. She is just as nice as she is beautiful!

Photos courtesy of the Orange County Register.

The Great Pumpkin!

2008-10-13T19:20:00.000-07:00

Looks like Nick found it! Completely adorable - Have I mentioned how much I love this time of year?

Bushels of Fun

2008-10-11T18:54:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun time today in Oak Glen. What a perfect way to celebrate fall and enjoy being outdoors. We decided to bypass the uber-crowded part of Oak Glen (known as Riley's Farms) and head straight to Willowbrook which was a wee bit more authentic and manageable for the kids.After a brief lesson on apple picking, they let us loose on the orchard. Tim was handy to have around because a lot of the best apples were up high on the tree (out of the reach of most of the little apple pickers). The kids were so excited to have their own bags to fill with apples!
I couldn't help myself - I had to snap a few shots of how beautiful the apples were on the trees.
The perfect pick!

Love this group shot of the boys. Poor baby Ryan did a good job trying to stand for the pic.

Funniest part of the day was our time with this horse that they have at the orchard. They have a bucket of carrots that you can feed to the horse and each nephew took a turn giving the horse a carrot. Unfortunately there was one orange object just slightly out of the horse's reach. He kept trying to get his head through the fence, but this orange object was just too far to grab...

Yep, he was mistaken for a carrot. Poor Ryan!And of course, the animal lover in me fell in love with this girl...Blossom the Pig. I asked Tim if we could take her home. Isn't she the cutest?
After getting our fill (literally) of apples, we headed to Oak Tree Village and checked out some of the shops and ate lunch. We were lured in by the 9 inch high apple pie that everyone kept talking about but by the time we got around to the bakery, they were all gone! I guess I will just have to make my own with the 2 dozen apples we picked.And, Tim bought me this darling fabric pumpkin pillow. I saw something similar in Solvang and regretted not buying it when I got home. I think it is the perfect keepsake from the day.

So friends, what are your favorite things to do to celebrate fall? I would love to hear how you ring in my favorite time of year.

Oak Glen

2008-10-05T18:14:00.000-07:00

I have been dying to go to Oak Glen ever since I found out about it through a co-worker last year. Evidently I may be one of the last So Cal natives to never have paid a visit to this fun collection of apple orchards near Yucaipa. Oak Glen offers a petting zoo, apple picking, cider making, hayrides, and incredible apple pies. Count me in! So, you can imagine how excited I was when Tim's sister Erin invited us to join them next Saturday. I know Drew will enjoy the kiddie area and I am all about going on a hayride and having a piece of apple pie.
I can't wait to share pictures and tales of the day. Oh and by the way, my neighbor a few doors down "out-Halloweened" me. She has the most incredible black garland running all around her house with huge, ornate black and white ornaments handing from it with orange lights. It's like something out of a dream. I will try to take a picture if I can do it without looking like a stalker.
Hope you are all doing well!

Much ado about merken!

2008-10-01T22:07:00.001-07:00

Up until two days ago, I don't think I'd ever heard the word "merken" get thrown around. I didn't know it was anything - let alone a word with two extremely different meanings. My store sells this merken: Merken the spice is a fun blend of dried and smoked chiles which adds a smoky "adobo" flavor to your dish. It is phenomenal as a spice added to fajitas. I highly recommend it.

The other "merken" definition can be found by simply doing a quick google seach of the word. Consider yourself forewarned that the other type of "merken" is a little off color. Merken - one funny word for two very unique things!

Giada's Kitchen

2008-09-29T15:42:00.000-07:00

Giada has a new book coming out and she is making the rounds to sign copies for her loyal fans. She will be at Williams-Sonoma in South Coast Plaza on October 14th and I have been asked to help out with the event. We are expecting over 500 fans who have pre-purchased their books. I can hardly wait to meet her.

Feeling Blue

2008-09-28T23:35:00.000-07:00

I am feeling blue tonight. I had an absolutely terrible week, topped off by an upsetting day today! Tim is out of town on business, and I am feeling lonely and sad. It has been a difficult year in a lot of ways. So many life changes and a lot of goodbyes to people and things that I loved. Tonight, I am missing one of those friends, my cat Roxy who we lost on December 12,2007. She was a gentle soul with the loudest purr and the purest heart. I adopted her in 2000 - I used my big windfall from a tax refund to buy her. There were so many kittens to choose from at the shelter, but I chose her because the shelter worker told me they were going to put her to sleep because she was so ferile. She was only a little over three weeks old, scared and shy. When I brought her home, she was sick with a respiratory illness and after two days of loving care, she was healthy and tame (although she was forever shy around strangers. She loved to steal bites of chips - she loved cuddling with her baby sister Rio. She loved my old purple slipper that she cuddled with and she loved hanging out in my closet. She loved Tim from the day I met him - he definately got her stamp of approval.

Roxy weighed nearly 25 pounds but was never sick - until about December 10th. I started to notice that she wasn't eating - and when she refused treats, I knew there was a problem. I took her to the vet and after examining her they realized that she was very dehydrated and had impacted bowels. They kept her that night to monitor her and I was at work until 1AM getting ready for an executive visit. I stopped by on the way home from work (the vet hospital was open all night) and when I looked at her, I knew she was very ill. They called Tim at 5AM and told him that her organs were starting to fail and that she didn't have long. She was suffering from Fatty Liver Syndrome and it was causing her body to shut down. He had the horrible job of waking me up to tell me that news - the unthinkable. We drove to the vet and stood with her as they put her to sleep. I had my hand on her and I told her how much we loved her and thanked her for the joy she brought us for so many years. I sobbed at the emptiness of knowing she wouldn't be home when we got there. I sobbed at the empty carrier we had to take home and at the kindness of the vet tech who made a plaster imprint of her paw for me to have. I sobbed when I saw that empty closet and her beloved purple slipper laying on the floor where she had left it. I cannot believe it has been almost a year since I lost my dear friend.

Back on it’s golden hinges

The Gate of Memory swings,

And my heart goes into the garden

And walks with the olden things.

Not a day goes by that we don't miss you, Roxy girl.

Closet Fan

2008-09-27T22:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am coming out of the closet with my love for Neil Diamond. I love every sequins wearin', cracklin' rose singing bit of him. Loving Neil kind of runs in my family in a way. My Aunt Joyce who passed away when I was very little loved him and for that reason, his music has always struck a chord for my mom. His best hits CD used to play on rotate at my old job and I guess that was my first real introduction to his music. The music became a sort of soundtrack to my life at that time - which happened to be the first few months I was dating Derek. After he and I broke up, I made all of my stores take his CD off of rotate because I couldn't handle listening to the songs. Now, a few years later, I can listen to them and remember the good times and think of my Aunt and my mom and all of the things that Neil's music reminds me of. The song Morningside makes me teary eyed everytime I hear it - it was my Aunt's favorite. So you can imagine how excited I am that I get to go and see him live a week from tonight. Tim's friend Kevin was kind enough to share amazing suite tickets with us. So what if we will be the only people there under fifty. I am counting the days until I can belt out Sweet Caroline and be in the same room as the man that my dear Aunt loved so much.

It's A Boy!!

2008-09-24T14:09:00.000-07:00

Well, most of you know that my sister is expecting Baby #2 this March and we were all counting the days to find out if it will be a boy or a girl - and it is official - it's a boy! This makes nephew #7 for Tim and I. When I told Tim, he was saying that he thought it was great because as a brother to two sisters he really missed the opportunity to have another boy in the house. He is absolutely right. And someday, if we ever need something heavy carried or something fixed, we will have 7 strong boys around to give us a hand, right? Congratulations on a healthy baby #2, Athena! We can't wait to meet him this spring.

Things I love right now...and some things I don't.

2008-09-22T19:10:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite fellow bloggers (the amazingly talented Jen at Cottage Nest) came up with a fun list of things she was greatful for and some other things she could live without. I thought it was a fun idea and so I decided to share my list with you.

Things I love right now:

1. Barefoot Contessa recipes - how simple and terrific are they?! This one in particular is just to die for. Plum-raspberry crumble. Just as good as it could possibly be.

2. Fall arriving not a moment too soon.

3. Thinking about the amazing Indian take out that Tim and I had last night (sorry Jenny Craig!)

4. Comfortable Pajamas

5. Thinking about going to see Neil Diamond next Saturday!

Things I don't love right now:

1. Lame work politics which are disappointing and unnecessary.

2. Weird headaches - I have one right now.

3. Family bickerments (also disappointing and unnecessary.)

4. Daylight savings time - where did my sunlight go?

5. The thought of weighing in tomorrow after my food splurge this week.

What are you loving (and not) loving right now?

So Inviting!

2008-09-21T23:20:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday I was talking about our Halloween party that we are are starting to plan here in Dove Canyon. Tonight, while I was etsy-ing, I came across these super cool invitations and had to share them with you. Planning a party of your own? You can wow your guests with some amazing invitations from Etsy Shop Nouveau Designs.

Happy Fall Y'all

2008-09-19T23:23:00.000-07:00

I just can't contain myself - I love fall and I am so glad it is finally here! Tim and I decided to host a Halloween open house this year on Halloween night. I am hoping we can get both sides of the family together for food, scary movies, and trick or treating for the kiddos in the family. My street has a big block party and there will be plenty of friendly neighbors to visit. Tim decided he wants to be the incredible hulk for Halloween (his sister Erin's idea). What a big kid he is. Thought I would share more Halloween decorations - this is another Bethany Lowe piece. I thought it was cloche worthy.

This is my fall tablescape. I had so much fun putting it together.

I think I stumped the cashier at the grocery store who looked at me like I was crazy for buying $40.00 worth of pumpkins already. She glared at me as she searched for the codes. Oh well, that's what I get for being the Queen of Halloween, right?

Porch Appeal

2008-09-17T23:28:00.000-07:00

It was a busy and fun day in Dove Canyon. I spent the afternoon unpacking all of my Halloween decorations (including some that I purchased in July/August) and did my front porch scape. I can't put into words how much I love Halloween. It is my favorite holiday by far! For me, it brings back some of my fondest childhood memories. This year marks my first Halloween in my new home and preparations are well underway to get my home all dressed up in its fall best.

I thought I would share with you what I have done so far -

I hope your week is "spooktacular" so far!

Handmade Halloween

2008-09-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

Last year, my sister turned me on to Etsy (http://www.etsy.com/), and let me say if you haven't been there before, it is addictive. So, don't say I didn't warn you. I've ordered a few things but more than anything else, I like the thrill of the search. And, I have a handful of things in my "favorites," one of which is this girl - Amelia the witch from the seller maddoxandklaus. She is on my list of "don't need, but would love to have." I may order her in the next few weeks if no one else claims her. And, I should give an Etsy tribute to my friend Julie (of Etsy's own Joyshope) and also a fellow blogger at Joy's Hope. She was my very first Etsy purchase. She sold me a darling Thanksgiving wood sign for the door (I will post when it goes up after Halloween), and did such an amazing job I ordered custom signs from her for all of my employees for Christmas presents. Miss Julie was so kind that she hand delivered the last batch to my home just to make sure that I got them in time for the holidays. Amazingly kind, right? I urge you to support your local artists and make a wish list of your own.

Hooray, My First Blog Award!

2008-09-09T23:21:00.000-07:00

Well, when I first started blogging this past January, I had no idea how much I would love it and love the people I would meet and get to know. Your stories have made me laugh, cry, think, change, and be a kinder, better me. I have also been able to stay in the loop on the daily events down in San Diego with my sister's blog Soul Impressions.

And today, I won this very sweet and special award from Melissa at Sunbonnet Cottage. Please take a moment to visit her blog - it is one of my daily blog stops. Thanks again Melissa! You are just too kind.

And rather than pick and choose certain people to share this award with, I wanted to share it with all of you. Thank you for being a part of my world. Keep writing and I'll keep reading.

DIY and Halloween on Hold (for now)

2008-09-07T20:03:00.000-07:00

I am new to the world of do-it-yourself. I love to craft and to decorate, but I haven't delved into any major projects...until now. I rescued this cute little drop leaf table from Tim's dad's house - where it was about to be thrown away. I think it has potential - what do you think? I want to do it in a plain white or white with a shabby chic finish. I would love any tips or suggestions. No tip is too basic, because I have never painted or refinished anything before. Thanks in advance for your help - my crafty and talented blog friends. I went for a walk tonight in Dove Canyon, and no one has set up their Halloween yet. I guess it is still a week or two too early to start setting up. But I had to share one of my new Halloween finds. I bought this a few weeks ago at Homegoods - it is Dee Foust for Bethany Lowe. "Charming" - isn't it?
Also, for those of you Halloween fans out there, I highly recommend you pay yourself a visit to my friend Rosemary's blog "Rose's Petite Maison." Speaking of talented bloggers, Rosemary takes the cake and her handmade Halloween and french themed decorations are out of this world. Rosemary, thanks for the inspiration - you rock!
Here's to a great week ahead, friends.

Happy 3 years together!

2008-09-04T21:18:00.001-07:00

So, Tim and I celebrated our three year anniversary today. You can read more about our story in my last post. Here is a picture of me, all dressed up and ready for a night on the town.Bluewater Grill in Newport Beach is an amazing seafood restaurant with a very classic New England feel. The food is so fresh, we watched them catch a swordfish and drag it from the boat into the restaurant! They even gave the sword to one of the diners who was so amazed by the whole thing.

This was our appetizer - scallops on the half shell. So good!

And the classic mixed clam chowder. Tim and I like to add tabasco sauce to it.

I'd like to show you my fish and chips platter and Tim's halibut but we were so hungry, by the time I thought to take a picture, we were halfway done. We also popped into one of my favorite gift stores and I bought a cool "prop" for my Halloween decorating. Don't worry, there will be halloween pictures soon enough, and once I start with that, there is just no stopping me! Hope you are all doing well, friends.

A Story and a confession...

2008-09-03T20:57:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the 3 year anniversary of my first date with Tim. I thought it would be a really nice time to share our story with you. I had been single for almost one year to the day following my divorce from Derek and had truly begun to believe that there weren't any nice men left out there. I always say that someday I will write a book about my year as a single woman - it was filled with fun and eye opening experiences about men and the single life. I'd always had a boyfriend, but had never really dated per say. In one year, I tested those dating waters - my friend Tonya and I painted the bar scene (that was how she met her husband) and I just had zero luck. I even had something slipped in my drink on a first date, and thankfully came out of that experience unscathed. And when you work in the greeting card industry, single men aren't really readily available to meet and get to know. So, I decided to jump into the wonderful world of online match making. I was almost 27 years old and I knew what I wanted, an honest person without children, preferably not divorced, with a decent job who lived locally. My first two online dates were just okay - nothing great, nothing terrible. Then I met Tim. We talked on the phone a few times before deciding to get together for dinner. We had to do it on September 4th because the 3rd was his birthday and his family was having a bbq. The night of the 3rd, after his party, we talked for hours. Through three different phone batteries - talking about everything and nothing. I knew that he was different. He didn't just want to go to a bar for a drink like a lot of the other people I had met - he wanted to go to dinner somewhere great and he wanted to pick me up because that was chivalrous. He got lost on the way to my house and I wound up meeting him for the first time in my driveway. I don't know if it was love at first sight, but I knew he was different somehow from everyone else I had ever dated. Warmer, kinder, different. We went to Laguna Beach for our first date and had dinner at a restaurant called Five Feet. We were waiting to be seated and he grabbed my hand and when I looked up at him, he kissed my forehead. It felt like we had been together for years. So comfortable. After that night, Tim and I started dating. By October, we were an official couple and I was already starting to think of him as maybe the one.

At the beginning of November, I found a note on my car at work left by my ex-husband asking me to call him. I didn't. Two days later, he sent me flowers at work. I threw them away. Then he came to see me. He told me that he made a mistake and wanted to give our marriage another try. I'd only known Tim for 2 months and had spent a whole year wondering what it would be like if Derek changed his mind. I had no choice but to give it a try. It broke Tim's heart, but I was honest with him and he gave me my space. He would come to see me at work and we would talk every now and then but I was enjoying the fact that Derek was back. After such a painful split, I thought I would finally get some resolution on the pain I was feeling. Tim never gave up. He brought my Christmas presents to my store and bought me a ticket to go to Texas with him and his friends for the new year, but I didn't go. He should have given up on me, but he loved me. I treated him terribly and he still loved me. That January, Derek had started showing signs of being his "old self" and my trust was so frayed that I started to realize that I couldn't put our marriage back together. There were too many cracks and too many hurt feelings. I couldn't forgive. Period.

I came down with a terrible cold and was all alone at my apartment, talking to Tim on the phone. I told him how I was craving red clam chowder and how it had been the only thing that sounded good to me for days. Tim showed up on my doorstep that night with a big bag full of medicine, magazines, sourdough bread, and the best homemade clam chowder you have ever had. He found the recipe and made it himself. For me. That was love. And three years later, it still is. I'm so glad he never gave up on our love. I know that I have found the perfect person for me.

Tim, I love you. Thanks for the soup and for three years of happiness, surprises, patience, kindness, love, friendship, understanding, and laughter. I am so lucky to call you mine.

Happy 34th Tim!

2008-09-03T20:44:00.000-07:00

Today is my fiancee' Tim's 34th Birthday. Our 3 year anniversary is tomorrow and we are going out to celebrate at our favorite restaurant in Newport Beach. So, we decided to do a quiet dinner at home, topped off with Tim's favorite dessert of all time - The I De'clair from Claim Jumper. It is a jumbo dessert to say the least, complete with three tubs of homemade whipped cream, a tub of vanilla bean ice cream, the eclair, and a tub of fudge. I tried to make it pretty, but the chocolate sauce was so thick, it wouldn't cooperate. Oh well, at least it tasted amazing! It even peaked Rio's interest - she hardly ever gets up on the counter, but she just couldn't help herself.

By the way, the cherry on top for me was watching the National Convention tonight. I've been watching it since 4pm getting all of the behind the scenes scoop. My brother and sister are both die hard democats, so I will spare them my rant (and hopefully they will spare me a rant) and just say...someone has a new hero!

Pretty in Pink?

2008-09-01T21:02:00.000-07:00

We have another neice or nephew due this spring - my sister Athena is pregnant with baby #2 (seen here below). With six nephews between the age of 16 and 6 months, we have our share of experience with little boys. A baby girl in the family would be pretty special, but regardless of whether it is a boy or girl, our newest baby in the family will be loved. A lot... So little baby, even if your Auntie K can't buy you one of these (from etsy shop
fairytalesunlimited), we will welcome you into our hearts and lives just the same.

See you in March/April Baby!

Perfect Gift!

2008-08-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

Tim's mom Marsha bought us the most amazing engagement gift! We saw it for the first time in Chicago when we went to dinner at Capri's. They have one on each table for properly serving aerated red wine. Tim's mom loved it so much that she talked them into selling her one for her house. And after seeing how much we loved it, she bought one for us as well. You pour your wine into the top and it floats over the glass ball into the decanter. Then you put your glass under it (or your serving vessel) and push the lever to dispense. If you prefer white wine, you can freeze the glass ball and pour white in - and the frozen ball helps to chill the wine. And of course, she threw in a bottle of 2003 Silver Oak which means that maybe, just maybe I will open the 2002 sometime soon because I have a back up now. It looks so perfect on our bar!

New Home

2008-08-31T19:21:00.000-07:00

I love this table. I loved it at my mom's house in her backyard, where it used to live. And she loved it at my grandma's house in her backyard, where it also used to live (my grandma bought it at a garage sale, I think). My sister must have loved it too because it wound up at her house where I found it last time I was in San Diego for a visit. She was tired of it and so, I gladly took it off of her hands. I haven't found the exact right spot for it yet, but I am convinced that it is here to stay. I love everything about it from the moulding on the base to its grey and white marble top. It's fun to think of all of the places it has been and people that I love who have enjoyed it too.

Five on Friday

2008-08-29T23:34:00.000-07:00

1. I'm so totally tired. Thank God for 2 - almost 3 days off of work to get back into the swing of things.

2. My boss quit last week. What is totally ironic is that she is going to work for Hallmark as a District Manager. After working for Carlton Cards for 10 years, even mentioning the "H" word seems offensive. I wish her well though - she will certainly be missed.

3. OH deer - when I was driving home tonight, there was a sign at the gate entrance to "Slow down to avoid hitting the deer" YIKES - something tells me that must have happened in order to post a sign about it. That would be all I need - to take out bambi on the way home. Good lord. 4. Diet is slowly coming along. I finally had a good weight loss week last week - almost 2 pounds. Slow and steady wins the race, right?

5. I love John McCain's running mate. Call me crazy. I think she looks like a cross between Tina Fey and Karen from Will and Grace.

What are your weekend plans like? Tim's family is all getting together tomorrow night at Opah to celebrate our engagement and Tim/his sister Erin's birthdays. Sunday we are going to go look at more wedding locations and Monday, after work, we are going to a barbecue at Tim's dad's to celebrate his/Erin's birthdays. Poor kids of divorced parents - everything has to be celebrated twice. Not to mention, Tim gets a third birthday dinner from me on his actual Birthday. Look out, diet plans!

OH Barack

2008-08-27T20:13:00.001-07:00

I watched the democatic national convention today and here and there for the past three days. Did you catch it? If you did, I am sure you can relate to what I am talking about. Barack Obama is a ham - yeah, I said it. I think he should have been an actor, because of his ability to whip people into a frenzy over...well, I'm not sure...is uncanny. His speeches and his appearances seem so scripted - even his conversations with his little girls during Monday night's speech by his wife Michelle (who I do like in a way). To me, his policies and goals seem very vague. I do find myself buying into the hype for a minute or two every now and then. Like tonight when he and Joe Biden were up on stage with "The Rising" playing in the background. Then, I think, what rising is he going to bring? Taxes? And I feel...well...shmoozed and manipulated by the fanfare of it all. I just want to see more substance and less shmooze. Honestly!

A Tribute

2008-08-26T23:59:00.000-07:00

I never knew Alison Kline, or even knew of her before a few days ago. But she, simply by being her and writing about her life (as we all do here in blog world) changed my life. I stumbled upon her blog on Saturday evening and read it cover to cover. Her blog, not unlike my own, chronicled her day to day, from her love of peach ice cream to her dilema over which color to paint her adorable kitchen. It followed her husband to Japan where he was stationed for 6 months and was her sounding board during his time away - the place where she confided all of the things she wanted to do to surprise him when he finally got back home. And then, it took a turn that you would not expect it to take. That you could not imagine happening to someone so beautiful, so happy and so young. Alison was diagnosed with cancer after going to the doctor for back pain. She fought a battle with courage and bravery and never made one post that had the least bit of self pity in it. She was full of hope and grace. As I read posts closer to August of this year, her husband started posting in her place, implying that Alison was simply too sick to write. Alison lost her battle with cancer on August 5,2008. Her story reminded me how simply fragile life is. How one day you can be worrying about something small, never thinking that you may only have one or two years left to live and enjoy your life. We should all live our lives in a way that brings us joy and not sweat the small stuff. The things that really warrant worrying are the things that blindside us when we are least expecting them and not one ounce of worry can change that.

Although I didn't know them, I am devastated for her husband and family. What a tragic loss of such a remarkable person.

To read more about Alison's touching journey, visit her blog at http://mrsladystaroftheseabreezes.blogspot.com/.

Happy Sunday

2008-08-24T22:09:00.001-07:00

Tim and I had the pleasure of babysitting our little nephews Shane and Zack today. Their parents went to Del Mar for a day of fun in the sun and we got to run after these two balls of fire. We played Cooties (the game), built Tinkertoys (my favorite when I was little) and went to the park to eat dinner and play on the playground.

Here is my little Shanie on the swings. They are so photogenic, aren't they? What you don't get pictures of is Zack trying to climb up the slide and me saying "No, Zack" and "Play nicely you two." After about an hour of making sure they didn't kill themselves (or anyone else) at the park, Tim looked at me and said "Let's just be those people who travel and don't have kids." Our quiet and clean little lifestyle won't know what hit it when we finally decide to become parents.
But it was all worthwhile at the end of the day when I sat down on the couch and they fought over who got to sit on my lap while we watched Blue's Clues. I convinced them that there was room enough for both of them and so, he we are. Snuggletime is always the best part of the day, wouldn't you agree?

Hope you found time to get a little snuggling in this weekend.

It's never too early

2008-08-21T20:14:00.000-07:00

I say it every year, but this year I really mean it. I am going to be prepared for the holiday season early this year so that I can sit back and enjoy it all a little bit more than I have been. I will not be found at the mall searching for those last gifts or wrapping for hours on end to get caught up on Christmas Eve.
So, how is this for a cute start. I ordered these fabulous gift tags last night from becreativestationary shop on Etsy. They are so me - I love the cranberry colored damask pattern and the best part...
They are personalized! So classy. I had her do chocolate ribbon with them and I am thinking they would pair well with a solid brown paper. Be sure to check out her store - her prices are great and she has tons of other items, including cute party favor tags for those of you moms out there. As my dear friend Jonathan reminded me today - "Life favors the prepared"

The Eagle Has Landed

2008-08-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

Or the pumpkin butter, I should say. These little jars of goodness are a fall staple in a lot of houses out there, including mine. I tried it for the first time last year (after witnessing the pumpkin butter frenzy at my store when the first few dozen jars came in) and have been a fan ever since. Williams-Sonoma customers stock up for the whole season and our stores always sell out. I think the appeal has something to do with the versitility of pumpkin butter. The options are endless - pumpkin pie, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin cheesecakes, pumpkin spread, and our favorite, the dessert squares can all be made using pumpkin butter. I also like to use it on my toast - yum! If you haven't ever tried it, I recommend that you take a trip to your local Williams-Sonoma and pick up a jar or two. Be sure to visit www.muirheadfoods.com for tons of amazing recipes to put that pumpkin butter to use.
And let the fall baking season begin...

Ring Bearer-s?

2008-08-17T22:36:00.000-07:00

What do you all think of this idea?

Multiple ring bearers! That way, we don't have to leave out any of the little nephews. One six year old, two almost four year olds, and an almost two year old? It's do-able, don't you think?

Blush and Bashful

2008-08-17T22:24:00.000-07:00

Hello and Happy Sunday to you, friends. I had a nice day off and that gave me a chance to visit a lot of you and find out what is going on in your worlds. I wish you all a fabulous last couple of weeks of summer. I hope you join me in being so thrilled to welcome fall - my very favorite holiday. I am counting the days - sorry, summer. I love my crisp fall afternoons, pumpkins, and comfort food. I can't help it.

Tim and I spent the afternoon doing wedding stuff. We went to visit Orange Hill, which I shared with you in my last post. It is lovely and fits perfectly in our budget which is great. I don't think it is the right place for the ceremony itself though. There just isn't a rightful spot for such an important part of the day. So, off we went to research churches nearby. We stumbled upon the First Baptist Church of Yorba Linda. There is something so "southern" and "cottage-ish" about it.

It reminds me of the church in Steel Magnolias. Cute, isn't it? I know what you are thinking...Kristin loves cottage AND all things southern.
It is definately a contender.
I have given myself a month deadline to book a site and with that, to finalize a day.
I'll keep you all posted.