lazy days

Time to spring forward

2012-03-09T16:29:00.000-05:00

We got hit by a strong storm last weekend and part of our fence got taken out. While that’s getting repaired, I plan on taking Windy on an urban excursion. The weather is supposed to be perfect tomorrow – 64 degrees and 0% chance of rain. Although I prefer the cold, I am excited about the change of seasons. AND tomorrow is daylight savings!

I plan on visiting Garden Hood to see about getting some new plants for our yard. I need more flowers in my life. Don’t really have anywhere else in mind so we’ll see where the day takes us!

Check out Windy & Carl's take on Dwight Yoakam's “A Thousand Miles from Nowhere” – available now at http://geographic-north.com/ - beautifully designed.

If you love dogs, you should watch this funny video Bobby sent me.

Baked Lemon Millet

2012-03-09T12:52:00.002-05:00

I mentioned on twitter last night that I modified Joy theBaker’s Baked Lemon Risotto with millet – and let me just repeat myself and say it turned out delicious!

Here is what I did:

For the first five ingredients, I followed her steps exactly – except I replaced the olive oil with coconut oil.

1 small onion, chopped

1 tablespoon coconut oil

1 tablespoon lemon zest

2 teaspoons fresh chopped thyme leaves

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

From here, I took ½ cup of millet rinsed and toasted over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until fragrant. I followed the rest of the recipe using her steps. (Keeping the ratios at one part millet to two and a half parts broth) It did take about 15-20 minutes longer but the end result was pretty spectacular –and no salt was needed. The lemon in this dish makes me excited about Spring and reminds me of Easter – probably a good side dish for a family brunch!

Benefits of millet:

- No gluten

- Lots of protein

- High Vitamin B

- Good for your heart

- May help reduce diabetes risk

- Good source of fiber

Try also: modifying Arroz con Pollo with millet

A picture from our honeymoon in Hawaii - just because.

is it a sideboard or buffet?

2012-03-08T16:36:00.003-05:00

Armed with citristrip and a bucket of white paint, this boring sideboard was transformed into a refreshing, bright, happy buffet that now sits in our kitchen.

Since we’ve been downsizing (got rid of the butcher’s block and shelf in the kitchen), we wanted a piece that was more compact for the kitchen and properly served our needs – storage and counter space. This find was purchased at an amazing antique store in Marietta called Fancy Flea Antiques. Once you venture outside the perimeter, prices at antique stores tend to drop drastically. At first we weren't drawn to this piece, but I’m glad we went against our initial reactions and saw the potential it had underneath.

As usual, Bobby handled the actual refinishing while I picked out the details. I made it extra purty. And of course, I had my heart set on extremely floral knobs from Antropologie. The ones I originally picked out were a bit too feminine (they were pink and red) but I’m happy with the ones I chose. Combined with the basic pulls, it keeps the buffet from becoming overwhelmingly girly. But just in case. To surprise those who like to snoop – I lined the drawers and cabinets.

I found the wrapping paper on Paper Source (super fast shipping by the way) and picked out colors that matched the knobs. This was my first time lining and it more difficult than I anticipated. Bubbling was inescapable for me. I comforted myself with the thought that they would be covered up anyways and this was my first time. So if you look – don’t look too closely. Please. This whole process probably took us about two weeks (combined) of working on it after work and some on the weekends. We don’t like to rush.

an ode to my favorite food - arepas

2012-03-08T08:00:00.006-05:00

There is nothing in this world that I can compare to the sense of contentment I feel when I bite into a fresh arepa with melted butter inside. That sensation takes me back to Venezuela, to sitting in my grandparents kitchen, to my great uncle’s dairy farm, to the time I threw my sister’s shoe out our 7^th floor apartment – it brings back lots of happy, family memories. I guess in a weird way I associate arepas with family. I remember when I brought arepas for friend/cousin gathering. I remember when my mom came over to our new apartment just to cook arepas. I remember packing 3 bags of harina pan in my luggage to bring to my sister.

Arepas contain no additives or bleaching agents and are 100 per cent gluten-free. I won’t stop eating them, ever. Technically, they are extremely easy to make but can take a long time (atleast for me) – mix harina pan with water and salt. Form into balls and then flatten out – maybe about a quarter inch thick? They don't have to be perfect. Then heat a little oil in a heavy skillet to toast each side side – as my mom says – to give it a little face. For the next step, I don’t know what the second piece I have is called – my mom brought it from Venezuela – but I move mine to there and wait till the inside opens. You can also move them to the oven to bake.

Although the process can take a long time, it’s always a good time. Enjoy it with the ones you love in the kitchen taking in all the delicious smells. Stuffing them with any fillings your heart desires. And sneaking in a fresh arepa with some melted butter.

Here’s another helpful blog on making arepas and more Venezuelan recipes.

homemade laundry detergent

2012-03-07T21:18:00.000-05:00

This weekend I made my first batch of laundry detergent. I followed a recipe I found on pinterest – god bless, pinterest – and I am super happy with the results. The recipe calls for a 5 gallon container so I purchased a 27 quart container which is about 6.75 gallons. There was a lot of room for stirring and space between you and the detergent which helps because there can be a lot of inhaling (and sneezing). I had to do a bit of driving around to get all the ingredients mainly because I went to Target first when I should have just gone to my neighborhood Ace hardware shop. They had everything!

We did our first batch of laundry immediately afterwards and the clothes came out smelling fresh – but not overwhelming and soft. Total cost for all the ingredients was maybe $20.

Next up: dishwasher detergent

Tips to losing the muffin top

2012-03-01T17:17:00.000-05:00

The other day as I was stepping out to take Windy for a run, a man in a pickup stopped to ask if my parents were home.

Mortified, I yelled, "What kinda question is that?!"

He repeated his question and I asked him old he thought I was -his response:

FOURTEEN.*

Now, is that a compliment or was he looking for someone to kidnap? He claimed his motive was to sell my household some meat from our truck. Welcome to Atlanta.

I have to pause and think when people ask me how old I am. It’s not a common question these days. And I forget. I'm not prepared really. Sometimes I blurt out the first number that pops into my head – and it’s usually never the right number. So when I correct myself, people look at me like I’m crazy and wonder why I am lying about my age. I’m just not used to answering that question. I answer whatever age I feel that day.

10 Tips for staying gluten free:

1. Avoid drinking alcohol

What?! I know. It’s a hard one. I’ve never been a raging party animal. When I decided to go gluten free, we bought various types of gluten free beer. Sadly, none of them made the cut. It just wasn’t the same. I found that Maker’s Mark is gluten free but I’m not a big fan of bourbon. I’m also not a big wino. So, I just stopped drinking. I did this right before the holidays - which I know to some is blasphemous but I wanted to do it for myself. And I did it – and it wasn’t even that big of a deal. Recently, I’ve started drinking wine but I limit it to one glass and only on special occasions. If you’re like me, when you have a drink you also want a snack. And usually that snack is something salty and carb loaded. No drinking = no late night carb binges. Also, no cravings for those morning after hangover brunches.

2. Keep lots of gluten free snacks on hand

Back in November my doctor told me I needed to start eating more frequently. This might make sense to some – but I didn’t know how much damage you could do to your body going 4-6 to even 8 hours without eating. Regularly. Some days at work are super busy and I was constantly finding myself in that position. As a result, my metabolism was shocked and I was having insulin problems. Not good! I eat a lot now and have still managed to lose 10 pounds since Christmas. I make sure to eat at least every 3 hours and always keep a handful of these items on hand: almonds, almond butter, carrots, DF/GF granola, hard boiled eggs or egg muffins, and a box of GF bars in my car. (Sidenote: don’t buy baby carrots. It's a lie.)

3. Drink lots of water

And in the mornings, put some fresh squeezed lemon in your water. I'm notorious for my water intake. Staying hydrated helps keep your system regular, promotes health skin and hair, improves sleep and it doesn't stain your teeth. Adding lemon juice to your water in the morning gives your liver and metabolism a boost. Plus, it gives you a nice refreshing burst in the morning.

4. Keep some emergency “gotta have its” on hand

I have a frozen loaf of gluten free bread in our freezer. I am famous for going to the grocery store when I’m hungry and returning with an abundance of items that I know I should not have purchased - usually some type of cheese. This loaf is one of them. Before I make some toast, I make sure to check our pantry and fridge just to make absolutely certain there isn’t anything else I’d rather eat. If there isn’t and I really want it, then I’ll make myself a piece of toast (usually with almond butter) and savor it.

5. Coconut Oil
It's funny when you find a vegan recipe that calls for margarine - doesn't that seem contradicting? I recently learned about the benefits of cooking with coconut oil and how it can actually help increase healthy cholesterols. I'm impressed. I love the flavor that it adds to sauteed vegetables and how I can also use it when baking. Plus, according to a recent study it helps boost sexual activity. And you can use it as a hair mask!

6. Exercise

Regularly! If you have a partner or friend, hold each other accountable. The goal here is improve our lives so we can all be together longer and happier. I just started my second round Bikini Boot Camp with Tough Love Yoga and am on the verge of becoming a super obsessed yogi. I am so amazed at how much my body has transformed in just the last 8 weeks – I feel so much stronger and have way more energy. I’m doing poses I never thought I’d be able to do. Like this -

I did that!

Also, buy new workout clothes. Everyone’s booty looks awesome in a pair of new yoga pants which makes you feel awesome.

7. Try new recipes - and modify

And don’t feel like you need to stick to recipes that are marked “gluten free” or “paleo” only. It is super easy to modify recipes. Recently, I made Joy the Baker’s Arroz con Pollo but instead of rice I made it with millet. And it was amazing!

So good I forgot to take before picture.

8. Join a CSA
There's nothing better then eating fresh local produce at the peak of it's season when the nutritional value is at the optimal level. Plus, you get to support a local business and hopefully take part in the actually process. Being a part of a CSA forces you to try new flavors and get creative. Bonus: you save money on groceries.

9. Recognize your accomplishments and treat yourself!
There's nothing wrong with pointing out your accomplishments. This is something I am still learning (thanks to yoga). Rather than, being hard on yourself - take the time to find at least one good thing in each act or one thing that you espescially enjoyed. This all goes back to my attempt at trying to be more positive and bright - AND not letting the negative energy around me bring me down. We're better than that.

10. Get plenty of rest

Changing your lifestyle is difficult. All these tips are not about crash dieting or some quick 5 minute ab workout. It's about changing my lifestyle. Going gluten free can bring to light how co-dependent you are on carbs. It made me feel like I was addicted and initially I fought crazy cravings that made me moody. Making sure you get plenty of quality rest helps ensure you will be in a better mood and be patient (and rational). Understanding that cravings are natural is a big step – learning to not immediately feed those cravings is another story. But you can do it. I’ve even had dreams of eating croque-monsieurs and cookie dough and pizza. No joke. And if you give into those cravings - it's not the end of the world. Enjoy it and move on.

These are 10 things that I’ve found have worked for me and kept me motivated.

Any tips that help you?

*I understand that when I'm older I will appreciate being considered young. But 14 is a bit of a stretch.

spring like mornings

2012-02-04T10:57:00.000-05:00

Happy Saturday Morning!

This early spring weather is lovely and all. But it is making me nervous just thinking of all the mosquitoes and nasty bugs that are brewing outside getting ready to pounce. I don’t know what’s in my blood but I’m the kind of person who gets 10 mosquito bites walking from my front door to the car. I have to carry repellent with me. In fact, I think I need to stock up now.

We’ve been busy re-organizing/decorating our house which includes selling a lot of furniture on craigslist. Most items have been replaced except for our desk which has left our computer on an end table. Our house looks like we just moved in – a total mess with random boxes everywhere. Kind of exciting.

Today we’ll be working on refinishing a buffet we picked up at an antique store. I forgot to take a before picture but it was painted a boring brown color which we’re currently stripping and hoping to give it a bright, fresh look with some pretty new knobs. I say “we” but really it’s all been Bobby.

On top of which, he’s been busy working on Geographic North’s next series. I’ve been lucky enough to get some sneak previews and am impressed with what the fellows have put together. The amount of detail they put into each release is inspiring. They will be releasing Landing’s new album this April. Aaron Snow (from Landing) put together a mix which I’ve pretty much had on repeat since. Go check it out:

Geographic North Mix 1 - Landing by GeoNorth
1. Forma - Forma 237A
2. Cluster - Hollywood
3. Ulrich Schnauss - Never Be the Same
4. Flying Saucer Attack - Outdoor Miner
5. The Smiths - Headmaster Ritual
6. Fuxa - 100 White Envelopes
7. Slowdive - Good Day Sunshine
8. Belong - Never Came Close
9. Seefeel - Polyfusion
10. Stereolab - Cadriopo
11. The Cure - Last Dance (Studio Rough)
12. Washed Out - Soft
13. Harmonia - Gollum
14. Dead Can Dance - Ocean
15. Cocteau Twins - Oomingmak
16. Light - Passing
17. Lush - For Love
18. Bright - Point
19. White Rainbow - Tangerinecrunk
20. Budd, Harold and Eno - Their Memories
21. Experimental Audio Research - Untitled

My 3 First World Fears

2012-01-26T12:30:00.001-05:00

These aren’t crippling fears. Just ridiculous fears that make me laugh at myself.

Heights

Do you ever dreams where you’re standing on a porch enjoying the view chatting with friends – leaning on the railing, when all of a sudden the railing disappears and you remember you’re on the 50^th floor? A fear of leaning on a railing because you sense that you’ll be that one person who leans on the perfect spot and the whole thing collapse? Or when grilling on your back deck it will begin to crumble? I do – I also have this weird fear that the laws of gravity are going to randomly and suddenly fail and I’m going to float away. Or that I will be so overcome with fear that my knees will give and fall backwards into a deep pit.

adventures in paris

Food poisoning

My mom has a reputation of not letting anything go to waste which is something that I really appreciate nowadays. (Not related but a quote that reminded me of my parents: “In his children he was trying to instill a sense of the value of work, the value of whatever came into their house, but he knew that much would be lost in the context, the waste and excess of the culture at large. He had been brought up to know that what God hates as much as anything is waste.” Zeitoun) But I digress. She also has a love for making smoothies. I remember one Saturday morning when I was little, she was gathering some fruits and vegetables – some of which had started to look a little sad. She did what most people do and just cut the bad parts off and used the rest. (I remember my sister and I opted to stand on the sidelines for that smoothie for whatever reason.) But no. That did not help. What resulted was the worst food poisoning I've witnessed. So now, as an adult – I have this fear where I don’t even want to see food that is starting to mold. Ask me to smell something to see if it’s good and I’ll gag and run the other way. If there’s anything that looks slightly suspect in my fridge - out it goes. I’m very thankful for composting.

CSA bounty

Hoarding

Simple. I fear of becoming a hoarder. Feeling crowded makes me anxious and angry and sends me into a blind fit where everything must go into a Goodwill pile. This is hilarious because growing up; my idea of cleaning my room was to shove everything under my bed – out of sight.

sister adventures with cat.

foods

2012-01-25T17:10:00.000-05:00

New recipes I’ve tried in the past week or so.

I was testing out recipes from everdaypaleo.com and honestly they were a little boring. A lot of the recipes on the site reminded me of the dinners I throw together when I don’t know what to cook – some vegetable + some protein + some mixture of complimenting seasonings. Not very inspiring. I stumbled upon nomnompaleo.com which so far has had tastier recipes. I’ve been using a lot of them as reference to provide the base then usually do my own modifications with spices/vegetables. Still haven't found a source I'm crazy about - maybe I'll make my own.

Paleo Banana Muffins (I added a teaspoon of cocoa which added a nice touch.I really like how these turned out.)

Paleo Meatloaf (The loaf turned out a bit on the salty side but otherwise was pretty hearty.Not too crazy about it.)

Cauliflower Fried “Rice” (I was so happy with how this turned out - the leftovers got a little watery but otherwise very tasty.)
Paired with Oven Roasted Chicken and Arugula

Easy Tandoori Chicken (delicious.)

Egg Muffins (I added some cayenne and cilantro which added a nice touch - otherwise I think it may have been kinda boring.)

I’ve found that there is a TON of information out there that points you in all directions about the benefits of gluten free and paleo – even which regional caveman diets to follow. (See: The Inuit and the Kivtavans) This is any interesting take – I haven’t been able to find any profiles for the folks of South America but I’m sure corn will be in there. (Or I could just ask my parents.) But I like the idea that in a sense you should be eating the food that is local and available to you. Like how beneficial raw, local honey is for providing allergy relief.

So yes, there is dairy. Both of our families have dairy farms in them. In some weird way, I feel like it would be sacrilegious to cut dairy out. Plus, if I don’t have any problems digesting it then I see no need to cut it out.

Spend $ on food now or disease later | Ways to make the $ stretch for healthy food by Kate Galliet

Here are some interesting articles I’ve found:

Highlight: "Acknowledge that it’s going to take more of your time to cook a meal than to microwave a frozen dinner. Accept that fact. Americans spend the least amount of time cooking meals each week, and we’re the fattest. Correlation? Yep."

I quit sugar program

Highlight: "But how much sugar – natural or otherwise – have you been eating? Have you been kidding yourself you don’t eat much? I had. So I sat down with pen and paper and added up the exact number of teaspoons of the stuff I was eating. It was shocking. "

Beyond Paleo: moving from a “paleo diet” to a “paleo template”

Highlight: "Just as there is tremendous variation amongst populations with diet, there is also tremendous individual variation. Some people clearly do better with no dairy products. Yet others seem to thrive on them. Some feel better with a low-carb approach, while others feel better eating more carbohydrate. Some seem to require a higher protein intake (up to 20-25% of calories), but others do well when they eat a smaller amount (10-15%)."

Greek Yogurt Vs. Regular Yogurt: Which Is More Healthful?

Highlight: Skim, low-fat, non-fat dairy = more sugar.

savon

2012-01-25T08:05:00.001-05:00

A couple weeks ago, I found this tutorial on pinterest to make 1 gallons worth of liquid soap from one bar of soap. I bought the supplies and they’ve been sitting in my guest bedroom ever since then. I say a couple weeks ago but it was actually about 2 months.

Anyways. I finally got around to testing it out this weekend. I combined everything on Saturday night as instructed and woke up Sunday hoping to find a pot of somewhat congealed soap. It hadn’t changed and was still super watery. I got out the hand blender and blended the watery mixture for about 5-10 minutes on low heat then let it sit. Mid-day, a ring had started to form but it was still super watery. I gave it a few good stirs then let it sit over night. Monday morning it had fully congealed! Pouring the mixture back into the jug was a bit more challenging that I had expected. And kinda grossed me out - it was like a giant vat of runny snot. That smelled like roses! I'm happy with the results and plan on trying again this weekend - this time I'll try blending the first night to see if that gets the glycerin going for it set over night.

sofrito for the soul

2012-01-17T20:08:00.001-05:00

My brother-in-law was in town last week visiting – it’s great how often we get to see him even though he doesn’t live in the country. We went out one night to a smoky bar and I woke up the next day with my sinuses in a complete funk. This temperamental weather has not been helping either. I want it to be cold and stay cold. I know I shouldn’t but I keep checking the weather hoping to see some flurries in the forecast. I feel like the South is going to be cheated of a winter this year. I enjoy the summer and going to the beach but I love wearing layers more. Warming up is more enjoyable than trying to cool down.

I spent the weekend congested and convinced my husband that a trip to Peter Chang’s would help me. Not that I really needed to convince him in the first place. If you live in the Atlanta area and have not made it there before, you need to go there now. I don't know why it took me so long.

Order anything with the words “hot and numbing” or “fragrant” and you’ll be set. This trip we ordered a hot and numbing beef app, cold mustard chicken app and the hot and numbing combination which comes in a hot pot. The meal left my tongue feeling like it was tripping on acid. This wonderful experience was all thanks to the little Sichuan peppers sprinkled in the dishes. They accentuate flavors and make any flavor incredibly vibrant. Even the water tastes better.

I was feeling inspired yesterday and decided to try to wing a sofrito stew. I found a couple recipes online and modified them to the below.

Sofrito Chicken Stew

Sofrito
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 onion, diced
5 scallions, chopped
5 cloves garlic, chopped
1 jalapeño or 2
3 tomatoes, diced
1 diced red bell pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp salt
1 tsp annatto seed powder
Pinches of cayenne, chili powder and paprika if you’re feeling adventurous

I added a couple dashes of this seasoning from Texas' Tears of Joy

Stew
8 pieces chicken legs and/or thighs on the bone, skin removed
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 beer
1 cup water
Salt to taste
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped (or to taste)

Directions:

Heat oil in a deep saute pan. Add onions, scallions and garlic, sauté 2 minutes, add jalapeno, tomatoes and pepper. Season with salt, cumin, annatto and spices. Saute until the tomatoes start to break down then pour into a bowl and set aside.

Season chicken with spices and garlic powder; add to center of the pan allowing chicken to brown slightly on both sides. Combine chicken with sofrito, and add beer. The only beer I had on hand was an IPA. I don’t mind the “beer” taste but if you do, go for lighter beer like a lager. Add water and adjust salt, if needed. Cover pan and simmer on low until chicken is cooked through, about 20-30 minutes. Last, stir in cilantro. Ta-dah! Enjoy with some roasted sweet potatoes, brown rice or on it’s own. I forgot to take a picture of the final product because I was too busy putting it in my mouth.

Because my memory fails me

2012-01-10T17:05:00.001-05:00

For our 2nd wedding anniversary and 7th being together anniversary, we went camping at Black Rock Mountain. Before our first wedding anniversary we decided we would start a tradition of camping on anniversaries. It would be our time to cut ourselves off and enjoy some real alone time with each other and nature. (Last year we went to Cloudland Canyon.)

The weather was absolutely perfect the entire time - cold and sunny. On our first day there we did an 8 mile hike that was described as "most difficult" - psh. Most difficult to what? It was basically like walking up a wall for eight miles. Eight beautiful miles.

I took the majority of the pictures on my film camera and am still deciding how I want to save them. Maybe I'll make Bobby a giant modge podge collage - I haven't made one since high school.

Once we were back in town we treated ourselves to a delicious dinner at Two Urban Licks.

Gluten Free Foods

2012-01-10T16:55:00.000-05:00

Recipes I've made and enjoyed:

No sugar, flour or egg oatmeal breakfast cookies

- modifications: I used half figs, half dates and left out the salt

Chickpea quinoa salad

Almond milk (I tried this out of curiousity. It was good but I still prefer milk from the utter.)

Hard boiled eggs + yogurt

Gluten free peanut butter and nutella cookies (These are heavenly and addicting.)

Roasted zucchini and squash

On the menu for tonight we have kale chips, roasted chicken seasoned with lemon pepper and roasted cauliflower with dill and dijon mustard.

saying no to diets.

2012-01-10T16:37:00.000-05:00

This year will be a year of doing.

I hate the term “dieting” because I feel it suggests temporary changes. What I am talking about is lifestyle changes. The best thing we can do for ourselves and our loved ones is feed ourselves healthy, nutritional food that we will fully benefit from. I hate that we’ve become a society dependent on frozen packaged goods and that we’re too busy to cook a meal. I’m just as guilty of complaining that there never is enough time – but I’ve started asking myself why I am in such a rush when I find myself getting into that crazy frenzy. I realize if I don't embrace the crazy - the busy chaos - I end up missing the special moments because I'm too busy thinking of how I will get to the next point. This is going to be a year for me to cherish. Relish every moment. And stop feeling guilty.

Every year I make a long list of resolutions that I carry around with me and never think about past February. This was the first year in my life that I didn’t make resolutions. Frankly, because they would probably be the same. But also because I feel like I’m already on a good track. In November we started going gluten-free. We cut gluten out of our diets for a number of reasons but mainly to improve ourselves. This past year I’ve become a lot more active but hadn’t seen any changes in my weight. Since cutting gluten out only two months ago and exercising regularly, I’ve lost weight, my skin has cleared, I don’t feel bloated and my moods have improved. Already, I feel motivated to take it a step further and try paleo. I’ve also started bikini boot camp (highly recommend if you live in the Atlanta area). My goal isn’t about weight loss but about being healthier and stronger. I know I’ve mentioned it before but yoga has been one of the most gratifying and therapeutic experiences.

My bit of advice for anyone trying gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, paleo, etc – don’t do the substitutes. Eating substitutes only makes you crave the “real” thing and in the end you’re not doing your body any good because you’re keeping the same habits. Changing your diet is a wonderful opportunity to try new recipes and explore new flavors. Another thing I’ve learned is to not be so hard on myself if I “cheat”. I still have dairy in my diet. I’ve definitely cut back. And I do my best to ensure the dairy I’m eating is organic and when at all possible local. If I don’t have access to local, organic dairy I try to avoid it. Cheese is my guilty pleasure. These special diets don’t have to be black and white. As long as you’re aware and actively involved in the food you’re eating then you’re good to go. Food is definitely my religion and my body is my temple – I don’t want to put junk in it.

What else will I be doing in 2012?

Continuing to learn to make as many things as possible with my own hands.

saturday music from brazil

2011-11-05T09:42:00.000-04:00

<p>&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://taperec.bandcamp.com/track/yo-frat"&amp;amp;gt;Yo Frat by Tape Rec&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;</p>

<a href="http://trelifelirepi.bandcamp.com/track/sometimes-the-things-cant-be-said">Sometimes the things can't be said by Treli Feli Repi</a>

Brought to you by: transfusaonoiserecords

transfusaonoiserecords

And back to Otterbach

2011-11-03T18:05:00.000-04:00

A Full Circle.

We spent our last day traveling to one more town - a college town: Heidelberg.

It was a quaint but busy town that was full of young adults and families. We saw lots of parents riding there bikes to pick up kids at school and watched as the kids hopped on and the parents pedalled off.

We strolled down the streets, looked at all the shops, stopped for an espresso.

We went into an amazing, narrow bookstore that was four stories with a spiraling staircase. I found this gem in the basement. The only other book I found in English was about the apocalypse.

And this one, too.

The view from a bridge

I like to think the sign on the left means no women and children allowed on the bridge.

Does anybody know what these mean? We saw them on all the bridges we walked.

After a quick bite, we got back on the road to head home for dinner.

And then one more cappuccino.

And one more look at the view.

And then. We were on our way back home to Atlanta.

Berlin

2011-11-02T07:55:00.001-04:00

I worry that if I don't document our trips, I'll somehow forget. The memories will become blurred and eventually I'll ask myself - did I go to Germany or was that a dream? I'll forget the sensation of walking down the cobblestone roads and the cool air blowing on my face. I've never experienced Europe in the summer so to me it only exists in fall. It is forever fall there.

So, from Prague we set off to Berlin.

Our apartment was located in East Berlin - in a building that had been renovated and a splash of color had been added. (On left)

The view

Our room

Berlin is very flat making it very bike friendly. Unfortunately, I don't know how to ride a bike (I know.) so I was not able to enjoy this aspect. But the city was very friendly on my feet. With all the re-building going on, we saw lots of colorful pipes weaving around the city. Turns out they were the water pipes. Based off the idea that it would be easier to keep the pipes above ground then dig (I believe) they've been colorfully painted so they aren't such an eyesore. I liked them. In some places they do look out of place but they add a pop.
Pink

Blue

Our first day we visited the Jewish Museum Berlin which is incredibly beautiful and full of interesting exhibitions. Unfortunately, since we were only in Berlin for 2 days we had to rush through the second half. My favorite exhibits were the Garden of Exile and Holocaust Tower (pictured below).

After a quick gyro, we headed over to see a remaining piece of the wall.

This part of the city was more crowded

My dream car

Hot air balloon

The wall - interesting bit: the graffiti is not authentic

Cool buildings (I think this was actually a mall)

Holocaust Memorial

Bauhaus

The television tower which was built by the GDR to be taller than all the cathedrals as a secular symbol reflects a cross when the sun shines on it.

On our last day, we stumbled across an interesting part of town that was concentrated with local artists, cafes, record shops and boutiques. Strolling aimlessly down the street - I looked up and saw this -

There wasn't anything else that said Venezuela or something in Spanish. If it was in Germany that might be why I didn't notice.

Prague

2011-11-01T08:42:00.005-04:00

Ok. My attempts at documenting our trip to Germany have failed. I'm going to try and save myself - so here it goes...

Prague
Beautiful. Old. Lots of meat. The drive as we crossed the boarder into the Czech Republic was beautiful - serene.

The weather continued to be perfect

Splendid

In the city

Our view

Our room

Our dinner

On our night walk - Prague Astronomical Clock LASER show

We walked the next day to the castle - this was the view

Courtyard

Sunset

oktoberfest!

2011-10-20T18:25:00.001-04:00

Our reservations were for 11 am inside the Hippodrom tent. The word "tent" is so deceptive here - it was an elaboratly decorated tent. Even the toilets were nice (thank you, bathroom attendant).
These tents were packed full of jovial folks from all over the world that were ready to drink.
Beer for breakfast!

Along with bread topped with various spreads

The way it works is that you reseve the table for a set amount of time - we had it for three hours. The money you pay to reserve the table is your tab for the time - which is very generous. We ate and drank to our contentment.

I was amazed at how happy everyone - everyone was having a ridiculous time. An hour in all the tables around us were full and we were back to back to the people sitting behind us. In a sober setting, I probably would not have appreciated an older british man rubbing his back against mine - but in this instance - it was ok. Go ahead my friend, keep my back warm.

And then of course - there was Marcel. He was our - what is the male version of beer wench?

Once our time was up - we attempted to sit on the patio which we got kicked out of - for reasons that are kinda hazy. So we went off to explore the rest of the festival. We'd heard that a lot of the tents tend to reach capacity and close the doors but we didn't think it would happen at 2 o'clock on a weekday afternoon. Wandering through a festival with a group of 8 is quite the task. We all lost eachother several times. I found myself several times thinking that I was going to be stuck at oktoberfest for the rest of life. Because that is totally plausible, right?

The rest of the area resembles your typical state fair (minus the fried food)

You can't take anyone serious if they're wearing a dirndl or lederhosen.

Up next - PRAGUE!

Germany Part 2 - München

2011-10-13T20:38:00.000-04:00

The drive to Munich was pretty amazing. Really, all the driving was – it was like driving through a postcard. The weather was perfect – highs of 75 with clear sunny skies. Storybook cottages. Castles. Forests. Men and their dogs herding their flocks of sheep over the rolling hills and across the farmlands while playing flute. Enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Not quite but you get the point. It was beautiful.

If everyone drove like the Germans, it’d be a happier place. During all our driving, we barely hit any traffic – when we did hit “traffic” it was nothing in comparison to metro Atlanta traffic. We didn’t see any accidents either – interesting because they driver super fast but probably because they obey the traffic laws. When I’d imagined the autobahn, I pictured a white tunnel with cars flying. A more dramatic version of this –

With everyone going speeds of 90 + mph, you don’t notice how fast you’re going. It was smooth, scenic and pretty seamless ride.

We got to Munich and met the rest of our group – there were a total of 8 of us in a teeny tiny European one bedroom, one bathroom apartment. It was interesting. We’d brought a trunk full of air mattresses and there wasn’t enough room in the apartment for them. So, we moved the furniture onto the patio and covered the apartment floor in air mattresses. Funny thing, no one took a picture. Here’s the view from the patio.

We spent the first day strolling the city streets close to the Marienplatz to view the Frauenkirche. The Marienplatz is a large open square in the city center with lots of stores and street vendors.

We headed towards the Neues Rathaus and waited for the hourly Glockenspiel show. It was about as exciting a show as you’d imagine from a 1908 puppet show.

This was pretty entertaining…

There was a protest forming so we continued on our stroll.

We stopped in the Peterskirche to say hi to this fellow –

His body is undergoing renovations (that’s what the sign said) so the picture will have to do.

And from there we decided it was time for a beer. We went on to the Hofbräuhaus am Platzl which is in an inn that was built in 1528. The space is huge – a ballroom, stage and a huge open beer garden. We sat outside and enjoyed our drinks along with some Bavarian dishes.

Unfortunately, I did not take a pictures of my food – so I don’t remember what I ate. It was probably something wurst. We ate a lot of meat. A whole lot. These people like their meats from all animals – roasted and served with potato dumplings and sauerkraut. Despite the lack of green, the food was better than expected – if you like savory meats.

Up next, Oktoberfest.

the wedding of the century and germany

2011-10-09T11:09:00.000-04:00

The wedding was an absolute, beautiful success! Caitlin was such a beautiful bride and the setting was amazing. If you live in Georgia and have the opportunity to visit Serenbe or better yet stay at Serenbe - you need to. We stayed in the mainhouse and had a view overlooking the garden. I'm glad we decided to stay onsite near everyone. It really was such a magical weekend. So many friends and family came from all over the country and everyone was there to celebrate.

photo by mark durling

Lucky for us, our post wedding depression was cured with our big trip to Germany! This was our first time visiting this part of Europe and getting a little over into Eastern Europe. The flight over was pretty painless. We took a connecting flight in Charlotte jetted over to Frankfurt. We got there at about 7:30 am the next day. I did my best to stay awake as long as possible but felt seriously delirious.

HIlton at Frankfurt Airport

photo by Gareth.Stadden

This building blew my mind. It looked liked something out of The Fifth Element. From the airport we drove to my brother-in-law's house in Otterbach - I'm so jealous of his view.

The town is very small and there isn't much happening but it is a nice place to relax. One thing I discovered is that Germans love to garden. His neighbors have done some beautiful landscaping on the property.

We visited the local butcher shop and headed to the grocery store to pickup supplies for a cookout. Once we got back to the house I took a glorious 3.5 hour nap! It was much needed and definitely helped me adjust to the time change. After an evening of grilling, cake eating and dart playing - we went to bed and prepared for our trip to Munich the next day.

Disintegration

2011-09-11T21:50:00.000-04:00

“Disintegration Loops was a perfect example of an album's narrative completely shaping its perception. Like most, I was introduced to the work through its connection to 9/11, and the imagery of Basinski blaring his loops across a smoke-filled New York skyline has never left me. I can only assume that my own experience with those loops was common: they became an aural monument to the tragedy of 9/11, a crystallization of the events through sound. Connecting this sprawling piece to such a horrible act was a very human impulse, spun from the desire to compartmentalize an experience and covet a linear narrative that might obscure the chaos of real life. In my mind, the work instantly became something "more" than four albums pressed to and released on CD. It served a personal and collective experience in a way that records rarely do. Through loss, the mythology of Disintegration Loops was perpetuated, and its simple yarn allowed typical album/culture trappings to fall away. Basinski's method of looping sounds endlessly — and letting the aleatoric results comprise the finished work — further separated the artist from his art; in fact, it appeared as non-art, the antithesis of ego, filled with illusions of eternality instead of opportunist rockisms. For me, that sheen of endless purity has allowed an inherently flawed pretense — that Disintegration Loops was somehow above the work of a single man — to serve a deeply cathartic purpose: reliving tragedy without the full sting of reality.”

Keith Kawaii

End days of summer

2011-09-03T15:33:00.000-04:00

spying on the giraffes

windy turning 3

hosting girly parties

basking in tomato heaven

shopping for new art

courtesy of StephsShoes

cooking new recipes - Gluten-Free Tomato Tart With Parmesan-Rosemary Crust

On ne voit bien qu'avec le coeur.

2011-09-02T18:58:00.000-04:00

It’s been a weird and busy month. Things that have not gone as planned. Things have not happened. And things have turned out perfectly. We have a big date (dates, really) up ahead and I feel like we’re nearing some finish line. You know when you’re anticipating a big event in your life and you get super excited? You think about it every day. Have crazy dreams about it every night. Imagine how the days will go. And think to yourself as much as you want the day to come – you don’t. Because then it will be over.

On top of all of our exciting life events - it’s that magical time of the year where the seasons are about to change. It feels like everything is up in the air right now. Slightly off track but still under control. In getting overly excited, I tend to want to rush. Rush to the moment. I keep having to remind myself to slow down.

These past few weeks have been beautiful as I’ve gotten to spend lots of time with my best friends. Good quality time. All in preparation for our dear friends' wedding. I’ve already had dreams of me ripping my bridesmaid dress (I tried to repair it with super glue), breaking my heel, wearing the dress over a tank top (a wife beater to be exact) and the classic – waking up and forgetting it is the day of the wedding. You know, I still - to this day - have dreams where I get a letter in the mail from HIGH SCHOOL saying that I need to give my diploma back because I forgot to take a final exam. And it’s always for French or Math – some subject I’ve completely blocked out of my mind. These dreams always make me laugh in the morning. And then I’ll pause for a moment and recount what classes I took. I took all my exams, right?

After the wedding, we’ll be headed to Germany to visit my brother in law and travel the country. I’m looking forward to being back in Europe and hoping for some inspiration. And motivation. I’m also planning on taking a film camera – saving it for the countryside. It will be nice to take a long break from work and our daily routine – kind of like a slap in the face to tell you that there’s more to life. And to get out of routine.

So. Here it is. A reminder to myself. To slow down. Be patient. And relax. Enjoy the moment. Now. And to be positive – because we all could use some happier thoughts.

mindful

2011-08-10T08:01:00.001-04:00

"When you plant lettuce, if it does not grow well, you don't blame the lettuce. You look for reasons it is not doing well. It may need fertilizer, or more water, or less sun. You never blame the lettuce. Yet if we have problems with our friends or family, we blame the other person. But if we know how to take care of them, they will grow well, like the lettuce. Blaming has no positive effect at all, nor does trying to persuade using reason and argument. That is my experience. No blame, no reasoning, no argument, just understanding. If you understand, and you show that you understand, you can love, and the situation will change"
— Thich Nhat Hanh

happy notes

2011-07-27T17:04:00.002-04:00

"As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
- From Marianne Williamson's book, "A Return to Love".

“For God's sake hold your tongue, and let me love.”

- John Donne

“I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive.”

- Gilda Radner

"Dance first. Think later. It's the natural order."
- Samuel Beckett

"Watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you, because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places."
- Roald Dahl

I love my dog

2011-07-27T16:51:00.001-04:00

For all you dog lovers:

Dogs Decoded

I haven't watched it yet but I imagine it's pretty amazing.

wedding fun

2011-07-27T08:09:00.000-04:00

In an effort to better visualize the shoes and dress for my best friend's wedding, I created this:

perfect. I've ordered my shoes and am anxiously awaiting them. I have the feeling I may be wearing them frequently - which is good because I'll need to practice walking in them.

I am so excited about her upcoming wedding. It's going to be beautiful! Plus, who doesn't love weddings? Their all about celebrating love and being as sweet and romantic as you want.

you can find me at the club

2011-07-22T11:41:00.003-04:00

And

Find me on youtube, flickr and twitter.

braids

2011-07-19T19:18:00.000-04:00

yes or no?

Our hangover

2011-07-18T19:22:00.000-04:00

Did I take pictures on the 4^th of July? Barely. In fact, the only pictures I took were of the blueberry cheesecake I made, our attempt to shoot fireworks and friends falling asleep. Ya’ll can tell where my priorities are these days. (One day I plan on writing about the power of “ya’ll” – it is not something I naturally say.)

Patriotic pie

The 4^th of July was a blast. Our dearest friends from Chapel Hill and Birmingham came to stay with us and sweat it out. We shot off some incredibly weak firecrackers, listened to music, ate too many hot dogs and talked the night away. July has been good to us so far as we’ve gotten to spend a lot of time with friends who live out of town and friends who have just moved back home.

The following weekend after the fourth, I headed to Miami with my best ladies for a bachelorette weekend. We indulged in some delicious eats, laid in the sun and danced the nights away. It was quite an experience.

tops optional

The two big clubs we got into were Liv at the Fountainbleu – which from what I hear is tough to get into – but we were looking good. {brushes shoulder off} And the second was Mansion. This was on our final night so of course it had a dramatic twist. Or maybe it was just me. Now, you may not be able to tell this but I am not a clubber (or is it club hopper?). My only club experiences are from when we lived in England and even then, I stayed attached to the arms of our German roommates who were very experienced in this area. All I have to say is - I could never be a club hopper.

I really liked this guy's outfit

Our evening involved a crowded limo ride, strange encounters with foreigners, a stolen purse, 2 stolen iphones and a kidnapped friend. When one of us had gone missing, I was quick to assume the worst – she was being held hostage. In a closet with a bag over her head. They were calling her parents asking for a ransom.

Turned out she’d stepped out and when she went to call us – her phone was missing. And of course there was no re-entry...we found her tucked in bed at the hotel.

Grace

2011-07-06T15:10:00.002-04:00

From Marianne Williamson's book, "A Return to Love".

"To open to Grace is to ask that only loving, helpful thoughts remain in our minds, and all the rest be let go".

Independece Day

2011-07-05T00:02:00.001-04:00

Husband: Is that you?

Wife: [in bathroom] No. That's the sound of fireworks.

Happy 4th!

Teenie Beanie Weenie Paninis*

2011-07-01T12:09:00.000-04:00

Trying to plan our 4^th of July menu. It’s been busy around here - Bobby’s oldest brother made a surprise visit to Atlanta this week and we scrambled to get some type of cooling in our house.

Luckily, the generous people at Reliable lent us window units until they replace our entire system next week. Oh, the joys of being a homeowner. Right? Honestly, I’m not really feeling the joy – the idea of “it’s ours” is also not compensational. Makes me feel greedy. Like I need to do laps around our property screaming, “mine, mine, mine, mine!”

With the window units in place, we can relax knowing no one will be dying of heat exhaustion this weekend. And I can start cooking again. Cooking in the summer in a kitchen with no air conditioning or a fan is tortuous. I’ve been avoiding it completely and telling Bobby we can only eat salads. I’m planning on keeping it simple this weekend since normally I tend to cook way too much and lean towards heavy dishes. And it's going to be HOT.

So, the menu for this weekend is going to include: fresh salsa, strawberry goat cheese bruschetta, Haitian cole slaw, grilled corn on el cob, fresh berries + homemade frozen yogurt, a patriotic cheesecake and of course grilled hot dogs.

We also got squash from our CSA pick-up this week but I’m not sure how I want to use them. I’m contemplating just cooking them with lemon and parsley. One of my favorite combinations. Is it lunch time yet?

Have a safe and happy 4^th of July weekend!

*A combination of the most annoying words and the best trivia team name, ever.

Recreating the South

2011-06-26T11:32:00.000-04:00

Our AC is out - kaput - totally dead with no signs of return. They'll be coming by tomorrow to give us further details of what we need to do and until then we have every fan going.

Thankfully, it has been rainy the past few days and the heat has been bearable. Makes you realize how much of a luxury central air really is these days.

She probably didn't have AC. She's probably thinking, "it would be really nice if there was a breeze".

"Did you take the picture already? It's damn hot."

Our summer so far

2011-06-17T17:14:00.001-04:00

We have grass and Windy loves to run around in it

The heat makes her lazy.

Went to NYC to visit my sister and brother in law for memorial day weekend. They hosted a brunch while we were there with lots of delicious food - this one was my favorite.

A play on normal bruschetta - strawberries soaked in balsamic vinegar with goat cheese and fresh basil. YUM!

Our fig tree is in full action. It is out of control. Unfortunately, we didn't cut it back last season and now we've got our hands full. Luckily, our neighbors don't mind the fact that there is a huge tree all up on their house - they like figs.

I've been tying aluminum foil around the branches near the fruit to help deter squirrels and birds - fingers crossed it works a little bit. I see a weekend full of drying and preserving figs this summer. Probably a couple weekends.

We've been experiencing a nice little break from the summer heat the past couple of days thanks to some rain, finally. There's nothing quite like summer thunderstorm.

Picture by benjaminagain

Ice Cream!

2011-06-10T19:47:00.002-04:00

For More Information

Cristyn Farrell

Melissa Libby & Associates

404-816-3068

cristyn@melissalibbypr.com

Slow Food Atlanta Hosts Fifth Annual

Ice Cream Social

I Scream, You Scream…!

ATLANTA (May 25, 2011) -- Slow Food Atlanta is hosting its Fifth Annual Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social fundraiser on Saturday, June 18, at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market. From 12:30 pm. to 2 p.m. Slow Foodies and ice cream fans alike will have the chance to taste their way through dozens of delicious homemade ice creams from some of Atlanta’s favorite chefs and home cooks.

This year’s participating chefs come from some of Atlanta’s most well-known restaurants including Spice Market, Morelli’s, YEAH! Burger, Rosebud, Cakes & Ale, High Road Craft Ice Cream, Parish, Miller Union, Murphy’s, Canoe and Five & Ten.

All guests will get the opportunity to vote for the most delicious homemade, not-necessarily-traditional ice cream flavor. Winning categories include “Fan Favorite,” “Favorite Classic Flavor” and “Favorite Innovative Flavor”.

Ice cream makers are asked to create an original ice cream flavor using fresh, natural ingredients where possible. Last year’s event drew in almost 200 ice cream lovers of all ages. This year newcomers like Morelli’s, Spice Market and High Road Craft Ice Cream are sure to provide even more unique and delicious flavors.

Tickets for the event are $15 each (children ages 5-10 are $5 and children under five are free), and will earn Slow Food fans a taste of each flavor and a ballot. Proceeds benefit the Atlanta chapter of Slow Food International and the Peachtree Road Farmers Market.

Attendance is limited and will be capped at 300 people, so guests are encouraged to buy their tickets early. Tickets are available online or at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market on Saturday, June 4 and Saturday, June 11. In the event of rain, this year’s Ice Cream Social will be moved inside to St. Philips Cathedral.

To help reduce unsightly waste, attending guests are encouraged to bring a spoon from home. $1 compostable spoons will also be for sale for those that forget their spoon.

About Slow Food Atlanta: Slow Food is a non-profit, eco-gastronomic member-supported organization founded in 1989 to counteract fast food and fast life, the disappearance of local food traditions and people’s dwindling interest in the food they eat, where it comes from, how it tastes and how our food choices affect the rest of the world.

We believe everyone has a right to enjoy good, clean and fair food. We believe the food we eat should taste good, that it should be produced in an earth-friendly manner, and that food producers should receive fair compensation for their work. We consider ourselves co-producers, because by being informed about our food production and making choices in support of good, clean and fair food, we become a part of the process. For more information, visit www.slowfoodatlanta.org.

Oh, Elliot.

2011-06-07T21:13:00.003-04:00

Listening to Elliot Smith on vinyl makes me feel nostalgic.

Makes me feel sad. Makes me feel happy.

Makes me feel like I need to take a moment and just lay on our bed while it plays in the other room.

Makes me remember how nice it is to just take a moment to relax and appreciate everything we have.

Makes me block out the thoughts of what I have to do or what I should be doing. And just lay here feeling the air from the ceiling fan.

Makes me think of sad times but feel good about where we are now.

Makes me ask (yell) for Bobby to flip the record so I can continue my session.

Eating Local

2011-06-02T09:28:00.000-04:00

From Wikipedia: A CSA consists of a community of individuals who pledge support to a farming operation where the growers and consumers share the risks and benefits of food production.

We decided to try a new CSA program this year after the one we participated in last year – which is based out of Forest Park, GA – kept giving us mangos, bananas, kiwis and other foods that are so very not native to Georgia. Each item still had the “Ecuador” “Mexico” “Not Georgia” sticker on it, too. It is frustrating to see that there are programs promoting themselves as a local CSA but then not even giving you local produce. It felt more like we were paying them to grocery shop for us.

This year, we’ve joined a new CSA through Jewish Food Alliance. Yesterday, we had our second pick up and I have to say I am much happier. As with most CSAs, each week they'll send out an email to give us an idea of what to expect in our share, recipes and also other news & events.

So far, we’ve gotten lots of lettuce, collards, beets, bok choy, onions, garlic, eggs, grits, snap peas, arugula – probably forgetting the rest but you get the point. And the best part – no stickers, just dirt. We’ve been making lots of salads with homemade dressing and hard boiled eggs which is great since it has been so hot and our AC has decided to not blow cold air (trying to not think about it).

*One of these is not from the CSA - can you tell?

This past weekend, I made arugula bread pudding with turkey and gouda – one of my new favorite recipes. I was able to use the greens and eggs from the CSA – added mushrooms, whole grain bread, milk and cheese. Normally, every morning we have our regular yogurt and homemade granola so this is a nice change. Plus, one batch of the bread pudding makes 10-12 servings! I also cooked the collards with onion, garlic, sliced almonds and some chicken sausage I picked up from Whole Foods. For seasoning, I added some of Bobby’s Cajun seasoning he mixed. I can’t wait to see what else we’ll get later this season – I’m hoping to break out my pressure cooker this summer for some canning!

love tough love

2011-05-27T09:41:00.001-04:00

Bobby got his cast off – now he has the unfortunate task of dealing with physical therapy and insurance companies. I’ve never broken anything (knocking on wood) so I don’t understand what he’s experiencing. I was under the impression that once the cast came off his arm would be all better – like it would burst out hulk style. Obviously, that’s not the case. I’m hoping that once his hand and wrist feel better he will join me for some gentle vinyasa

I’ve been going to the Tough Love Yoga gentle vinyasa classes at Young Blood for about a month now – they’re awesome! Durgaya is incredibly helpful and supportive. I love the way she breaks down each move so you can easily understand how each part of your body should be engaged. And the importance of listening to your body. The class is built for those new to yoga or anyone looking for a more relaxing class. They also have power yoga, metal yoga and boot camp that I’ve heard some great things about, too.

Next month they’re celebrating their one year anniversary and are offering unlimited classes for the entire month of June for only $50. Love it!

Happy Memorial Day weekend – we’re off to NYC.

Cumpleanos

2011-05-26T18:39:00.001-04:00

Today is Bobby’s birthday. For our birthdays we’re going to NYC – our favorite place to visit. I made him a banner and got his some balloons.

Tonight we are going to eat at Fox Bros with friends to eat some of their delicious food. Normally, we go to Daddy D’z but last time we went there (in February) it wasn’t as good as I remembered. Fox Bros is better in my opinion (I’m sorry Daddy) so I’m happy we’re going there instead.

I love celebrating birthdays. I get really excited about them – probably almost as excited as I do about the holidays. I never understand why some people don’t like to celebrate their birthdays. They’ll mumble something about getting older, fatter. Birthdays are a time to celebrate being alive. Celebrate being. And love.

"I want life, all of life, the miserable as well as the superb"

2011-04-25T20:17:00.001-04:00

Earlier this month, I decided I was going to re-read one of my favorite books from high school, Jitterbug Perfume. I wanted to see how I would feel after reading it and if I would still enjoy the humor.

I’ve fallen in love with it all over again. For those of you have read it, you may think I’m taking this story to whole other level – yes, it is raunchy at parts – but in the end it is a great story about the individual. And the afterlife. And beets. Rather than writing about the story, I wanted to share some of my favorite quotes. Enjoy.

If desire causes suffering, it may be because we do not desire wisely, or that we are inexpert at obtaining "If desire causes suffering, it may be because we do not desire wisely, or that we are inexpert at obtaining what we desire. Instead of hiding our heads in a prayer cloth and building walls against temptation, why not get better at fulfilling desire? Salvation is for the feeble, that's what I think. I don't want salvation, I want life, all of life, the miserable as well as the superb. If the gods would tax ecstasy, then I shall pay; however, I shall protest their taxes at each opportunity, and if Woden or Shiva or Buddha or that Christian fellow--what's his name?--cannot respect that, then I'll accept their wrath. At least I will have tasted the banquet that they have spread before me on this rich, round planet, rather than recoiling from it like a toothless bunny. I cannot believe that the most delicious things were placed here merely to test us, to tempt us, to make it the more difficult for us to capture the grand prize: the safety of the void. To fashion of life such a petty game is unworthy of both men and gods."

"Our individuality is all, all, that we have. There are those who barter it for security, those who repress it for what they believe is the betterment of the whole society, but blessed in the twinkle of the morning star is the one who nurtures and rides it, in grace and love and wit, from peculiar station to peculiar station along life's bittersweet route.”

"To eliminate the agitation and disappointment of desire, we need but awaken to the fact that we have everything we want and need right now."

"By identifying with our desires and taking them too seriously, we not only increase our susceptibility to disappointment, we actually create a climate inhospitable to the free and easy fulfillment of those desires."

"They weren't as much fun, anymore, the poor homers; they were straining so desperately for admission to paradise that they had forgotten that paradise had always been their address."

"Persons, says Wiggs, who lack curiosity about life, who find minimal joy in existence, are all to willing, subconsciously, to cooperate with-and attract-disease, accident, and violence."

Happy Earth Day!

2011-04-22T07:47:00.001-04:00

"It is better to be small, colorful, sexy, careless, and peaceful, like the flowers, than large, conservative, repressed, fearful, and aggressive, like the thunder lizards; a lesson, by the way, that the Earth has yet to learn."

— Tom Robbins (Jitterbug Perfume)

What will you pledge today?

Grasmere, "the loveliest spot that man hath ever found"

- William Wordsworth

Photo taken during our time in England - this is the view from Wordsworth's home.

A cup of motivation

2011-04-21T07:42:00.004-04:00

Good Morning!

I found this really great quote on a blog I follow, Heart Go Boom-Boom (which is also awesome!)

“The advice I like to give young artists, or really anybody who’ll listen to me, is not to wait around for inspiration. Inspiration is for amateurs; the rest of us just show up and get to work. If you
wait around for the clouds to part and a bolt of lightning to strike you in the brain, you are not going to make an awful lot of work. All the best ideas come out of the process; they come out of the work itself. Things occur to you. If you’re sitting around trying to dream up a great art idea, you can sit there a long time before anything happens. But if you just get to work, something will occur to you and something else will occur to you and somthing else that you reject will push you in another direction. Inspiration is absolutely unnecessary and somehow deceptive. You feel like you need this great idea before you can get down to work, and I find that’s almost never the case.”

-Chuck Close.

I read this quote over the weekend and again this morning. I've been guilty myself of saying that I just don't feel inspired. B even if it's just a doodle or a silly story, my goal is to do something creative daily. To atleast try.

Get to work!

Marching right through April to May

2011-04-19T20:48:00.000-04:00

Time just keeps on flying.

We got a funny start to April. I say funny but you'll probably tell me it wasn't funny. But at this point, all we can do is laugh it off.

On April Fool's day, I got a call from my dear husband Bobby. He calmly asked me if I was busy. I paused for a moment and thought. Is he about to ask me to do something because I'm kinda in the middle of reading some blogs. Or wait...is this a prank? So, as I opened another tab to pull up probably another blog - I said, nah, I'm not that busy. It was April Fool's day mind you. He was making a run to the store as were expecting guests the next day and realized we didn't have any snacks to offer. I had already finished dinner.

Well, he starts, I've been in an accident.

Oh boy - then I remember he took his scooter. And quickly realize this isn't an April Fool's day joke.

He assured me he was ok and that there were no serious injuries. He was so calm on the phone I never panicked. I went to go meet him and I brought wet wipes. His jeans were torn up and his hand was bleeding but he was ok.

Someone (who was born in 1992) did an illegal U-Turn and did not see him right behind her. I can't help but think this was going on in the car moments before Bobby hit them.

I can be mean - I'm the wife in this situation.

The next day, he was still having trouble moving and couldn't move his hand. We listened to his father and took him to an urgent care center - turns out he broke his thumb and now he's got a cast on that he gets to sport around for 6 weeks. We're on week 2. Otherwise, he is ok and he still has his head on and he's still making me laugh. I'm really tempted to sign his cast.

H.A.G.S.

pot of joy

2011-03-29T19:43:00.006-04:00

Meals you can cook in one pot (or pan) are amazing. They're beautiful and efficient. And there's less cleanup. During the week – it gets tough trying to cook dinner every night. But those one pot meals - oh, they've saved my soul! I'll have days where I don't feel like cooking. Those days where you put on your exercise clothes and convince yourself that that's enough...These meals are perfect for those days and require little attention to detail - any misstep you take just adds more flavor.

Last week, I made one of my new favorites: pelau. I’ve tried this recipe twice now and have decided it needs to be a regular. Both times I used butternut squash and tomatoes (instead of ketchup). The second time, I added mushrooms and a green bell pepper which added a nice texture. The recipe originates from Trinidad and Tobago and has lots of bright flavors and some spice. This is essentially a more colorful version of pilaf.

*Something to note, (I was not aware of this) in case you also decide this is your new favorite recipe, you should be careful what pot/pan you use to caramelize the chicken as this process can destroy your pot/pan – any caramelizing really. la di dah*

This week, I made risotto butternut squash, leeks and basil. In place of the leeks, I used red cabbage and green onions. Not exactly the same thing - but that’s what we had on hand. The dish was still a success – turned out to be an unexpected comfort dish. Some of the reviews said the recipe was not flavorful enough so I added garlic and green chilies. Oh, and instead of parmesan I used pecorino.

Looking forward to spring/summer and eating more vegetable full meals again. I think we’re about spent on soups and grains. We still have French lentil soup in the freezer from my last batch.

Here are some of my favorite summer recipes to anticipate:

Bobby’s paella

Tuna White Bean Salad

Dijon Vinaigrette

Salad with beets and goat cheese (or anything with goat cheese)

Tomato salad

Tofu lettuce wraps

Vegetable casserole

vinaigrette

To be engaged

2011-03-25T18:50:00.002-04:00

One of my co-workers gave me an article on helping your pets cope with the loss of a companion.

To be honest, parts of it made me laugh. The majority of it though is very thoughtful.

"Give attention at a time when your dog is engaging in behaviors you do like, such as when she is resting quietly or watching the birds. As the pain of the loss begins to subside, so should the vocalizing as long as it is related to the grieving process. Your pet may miss her companion as much as you do."

The article goes on to discuss the importance of keeping each other engaged in order to overcome your grief. It's easy to sit around and mope and be sad and eat cookies. There's no relief in that. We've had our fair share of crying and will probably have a few more.

Windy and I have gotten back to our afternoon jogs in the park. Thankfully the weather has been perfect this week. An absolute beautiful first week of Spring.

It's supposed to rain this weekend so our weekend plans of yardwork have been cancelled. I'm not complaining because my dad is in town visiting.

Date night tonight at Holeman & Finch.

"The dog is a gentleman; I hope to go to his heaven, not man's." Mark Twain

2011-03-24T16:59:00.002-04:00

On Sunday, March 20^th, the last day of winter, Bobby and I said goodbye to our dear Luci. As I mentioned previously, she had developed a cough. Looking back on it now – it’s hard to tell exactly when the cough started. It doesn't really matter anyways. Towards the end of February, it quickly became apparent that the cough was only getting worse and it wasn’t going away. There several trips to the vet - lots of X-rays, lots of ultrasounds - all of which didn't show us 100% of what exactly was going on. The one thing they could see was that her heart and lungs had been through a lot. We ended up trying three different antibiotics and nothing seemed to help. Her cough continued to worsen and she lost her appetite and energy. As it would turn out, what started as a slight cough turned out to be cancer.

I never would have imagined a day would come that Luci would refuse to eat chicken, fried chicken, bacon, hot dogs, gouda – anything. Health was never on her side but she never seemed to let it slow her down. She always managed to gather up the strength for the weakest wag.

When our paths crossed with Luci’s, we were at a point in our relationship where we had just started talking about getting a dog. We didn’t know what kind of dog we wanted, but we knew we wanted a rescue. Her howling is what caught our attention. When we first heard her cry, we thought it was a siren – a broken siren. But no, it was just her - howling away…waiting for someone to notice her – she looked pitiful.

She was covered in dirt, ticks (even had one on her eyelid), was emaciated, had a bloated stomach (full of worms from eating grass) and we would later find out had heart full of heartworms. There’s no telling how long she was in this state – her first vet estimated it could have been a year. She could have just gotten lost on a hunt one morning. It could have been that her previous owner decided he no longer needed a dog with heartworms and bad hips so he dumped her. One look into her big brown eyes and we realized that if we turned our back on her then she would die. We felt it necessary to give her a chance.

Our first trip to the vet was awkward. Here, I thought we would be treated with respect – not like we were trying to be Mother Theresa – but I didn’t think we would be chided.

“Why would you rescue a dog?”

“What do you mean?”

“Why would you just pick up a dog and bring it home?”

“What do you mean?”

Granted, it may have been that the vet took one look at Luci and then us (we were barely 19) and thought we were incapable of taking care of her. We knew from the very beginning we weren’t bringing home a puppy. We weren’t bringing home a dog in tiptop share. We knew she had health problems – we knew. That’s why we did the best we could to help her. And together with the help of our friends and family, we gave her the best life we could.

Although Luci went through several obstacles related to her health, she always managed to be happy. If she were a human, she would be one of those graceful grandmothers who's sole goal in life is to keep her family happy no matter how bad of day she is having. Through all that she endured, she never once showed an ounce of aggressiveness or irritation – that dog knew no anger. She had complete trust in us. We are beyond thankful that we were able to save Luci and give her a new life in the city. We made her the queen of our homes and shared her love with all of our friends and family. We will always remember her trusting love, patient manner, comforting eyes, constant drool and beautiful howl. She was a tender soul.

This past month has been full of heartbreak and frustration. And anguish. We realized the decision we had to make and realized that the longer we waited, the more suffering Luci would endure. Together, we managed to muster up the courage and strength we needed and spent Luci’s final hours doing what she loved most – scratching her ears and belly.

She will forever hold a special place in our hearts and memories. She will always be our Lulu, Lucci, Luci-head, Lu, Grandma, Grandma Luci, Lucifur, Lucifer. She will always be our first dog. Our lovechild. Our first hound dog.

I want to say thank you to our friends and family. Thank you for your compassion and support. Thank you for listening to us and letting us lean on you. Thank you for being a part of our lives. It warms our hearts to hear your stories of Luci.

This is the first week of Spring and with it we start a new chapter in our lives. While we mourn the loss of our beloved Luci, we look forward to the days ahead and the new challenges they will bring.

57.5 miles

2011-03-02T20:20:00.000-05:00

That's how many miles I ran last month total - which I think is pretty good for not being a runner. And for frankly, not being a fan of running but forcing myself to do it. In our efforts to be better, healthier and more responsible - we're doing what we can. Let's see how far I can go this month.

Here's a sweet song from Blue Valentine that I've had stuck in my head all day. If you haven't seen the movie - you should. It's sweet, heartbreaking and depressing - and really well done.

Crying contest?

2011-02-22T18:55:00.002-05:00

While searching on Google for "baby crying" images, I found this: Japanese Baby-crying Contest

WHAT? Who knew there were so many strange baby contests.

Anyways...

Keep Grandma Luci in your thoughts. She has a cough the Vet is hoping is just a viral/bacterial infection and not the start of heart disease.

Woodfire

2011-02-22T18:48:00.002-05:00

I'm sad that Valentine's day has already come and gone. Only because that means I have to wait a whole other year before eating at Woodfire Grill.

Like last Valentine's, we saved our pennies to treat ourselves to a delicous dinner of local, organic, sustainable cuisine. Thanks to the helpful inspiration of close friends, my sister and a good book - for the past past few years, we've radically changed our diet. I like to think I've always been pretty cognizant of my diet. There was a time I tried to be vegan but that only lasted about six months and then I caved in when I started working at a pizza place. (I was surrounded by too much mozzarella and feta.) But now that we're older and have stable jobs - I guess we're what you call - adults - we realize we can't eat the way we used to in college. We do our best to keep our house canned/frozen food free and rarely eat processed meat - we have to have our Hebrew National for the 4th of July. And the only sugary drinks in our house are a carton of OJ and a bottle of white wine. It's a good thing neither of us has a sweet tooth. So yes, all this to say that we love cooking with fresh foods and if we can help it - local goods.

This is why each year we look forward so much to our Valentine's dinner. This being the second year we dined at Woodfire Grill, it is officially a tradition. We've already made our reservations for next year! The whole evening was simply divine. When we were waiting to be seated we were standing behind this older, giggly couple. They were whispering about something - so I of course - got right next to them pretending to look for the restroom, which was obviously right in front of me. The only bit I got was the man say something about walking by with a video camera and then he burst out laughing.

"Hmm...," I thought, "Older couple + video camera...maybe someone is getting engaged tonight? Maybe, their son is going to propose tonight and he wanted Mom & Dad to be there? Oh, how sweet! I can't wait to see!"

I have to admit I spent the first portion of our meal eyeing every couple and asking Bobby which one he thought was about to pop the question.
"Does that guy look nervous to you?" "I think he's sweating?"

Meanwhile, Bobby was rightfully enjoying each and every moment of his fois gras mousse...here's the menu:

When all of a sudden we heard someone clinking their glass. And to my left an older gentleman stood up - excused himself for interrupting everyone's dinner and said, "I'm sorry but I just wanted to tell you all how in love I am with my wife of 30 years." (gets down on one knee) "Honey, will you marry me again?"

[insert image of crying baby]

Then from my right, came the other couple that was giggling and whispering away in the lobby - his wife was recording and he was playing the guitar. You know what song he was playing? The song we had our first dance to.

[insert image of crying baby]

And for a moment I went back here...

And back to when we first started dating and Bobby made me a mix CD with this being one of the tracks he put on it. We both started laughing. He said he knew when he put that song on the CD 6 years ago and suggested it for our first dance that someone was going to play it on the guitar that night. Sly devil.

I hope you all had a lovely, delicious Valentine's.
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Polenta your way to my heart.

2011-01-31T19:11:00.000-05:00

Because eating leftovers should be fun and who doesn't like their food to be in fun shapes?

Flip

2011-01-28T07:38:00.002-05:00

I woke up this morning telling my husband, "it's hard to flip triangles."

"What?" he said

"Flip triangles - you know flip them." Me continuing to talk in my sleep...

"OK." (Going back to sleep now.)

"It's Friday, right?"

"I can take a break from flipping them."

Close call

2011-01-22T16:05:00.001-05:00

FOUND

2011-01-21T22:58:00.000-05:00

from across the sea

2011-01-21T21:41:00.000-05:00

Close find

2011-01-21T21:32:00.000-05:00

I wish I had recorded more.

2011-01-21T21:22:00.000-05:00

And where the hell are my broadcast videos?

I'm testing you

2011-01-21T21:01:00.000-05:00

Resolute to indulge

2011-01-05T21:19:00.000-05:00

We didn't really write any resolutions - at least not yet. Probably because we just bought a house and already have enough "to do" lists laying around - I think we've got it covered.

Just to make myself feel better, let's have a look at last year's resolutions:

~~Find a new job~~
New job started yesterday!
~~Take a dance class~~
Flamenco - Ole!
Complete some type of photo project of Luci
This is a work in progress.

Learn to can
I got a pressure cooker for Christmas so this year I will!
~~Cancel cable~~
Been there - done that
~~Buy a house~~
Si
~~Buy a car~~
My sweet subie
Visit 7 Natural Wonders of GA
We got one down. Tallulah Gorge. But we did go camping at Cloudland Canyon so now that I feel more familiar with nature (from one camping trip? I don't know what I'm saying) we're hoping to visit the others and maybe even camp there.

Learn to sew a dress
I got to pillows, hemming and alterations.
Learn to make cheese and yogurt
I need to.
Volunteer
I know. I swear I tried.

Anyways...
Our plans for this year so far are pretty exciting. My best friend is getting married, planning a ladies trip and also planning a trip to Germany. Along with clearing the backyard, pruning the fig tree, attempt to garden, clean the gutters, paint the bedrooms, finish decorating, finish unpacking and rub Luci's belly. Oh, and Windy. Please don't think I don't love Windy. I do - but you know what? They're not kids so I can say I love one more than the other. Right? No, that catholic guilt is still so instilled in me.

don't hate me, windy.

Elizabeth Cotton - Freight Train

2011-01-04T21:07:00.000-05:00

Callin me, all the time like blondie

2011-01-04T20:24:00.000-05:00

I've been sleeping so well the past two nights. So well in fact that last night I had a dream I was at a friend's house asleep in their bed. They came in to wake me from my deep slumber and asked if I wanted to join them for dinner. I said no and left.

The holidays have come and gone - all our decorations have already been put away in the attic. Our house feels big and empty.

We cooked so much food for Christmas. I took the whole week off to prepare for our premier Christmas dinner in our new home and unfortunately it did not end up as planned. The food all turned out amazing from my Gouda and ham bread, muenster and ham bread, fresh green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, wild rice & mushroom stuffing, homemade cranberry sauce, 2 roasted pork loins, pecan pie, cranberry pie (with homemade whiskey whip cream) and a ~~dozen~~ million cookies - I couldn't decide what was my favorite. I tend to have this fear there is not going to be enough food. What was so unfortunate was that everyone (including myself) was sick. We couldn't really taste the food - and no one had quite the appetite I was preparing to feed.

New Years Eve was a success. For the first time, (I think ever and I don't know why) I got to spend it with my two best friends. I'm pretty sure this was our first NYE - if I've forgotten it must've been a good time. We cooked a delicious pasta dinner together alongside some Greek panzenella and roasted pepper, feta and basil muffins. Not your traditional NYE meal but who cares. I had on my yellow underwear, 12 grapes shoved in my mouth, and a twenty dolla bill in hand at the stroke of midnight so that is all that counts. This will be a good year. (NYE traditions in Venezuela)

a slice of the blob, please

2010-12-29T18:59:00.000-05:00

Searching for some NYE recipes and I keep coming across ads for this creation.

Holiday Brie en Croute

I love brie. And even though the thought of brie in a warm pastry sound good, all I can think of when I look at this picture is the blob.

Food ad fail.

I think I'll make some pot stickers instead.

And then what?

2010-12-21T15:15:00.000-05:00

We said goodbye to Bobby Cox and dear friends who left us for South Korea.

The gorillas made me cry.

These secret lovers met.

We settled in.

Cooked paella.

Drove all over Georgia

Spent some time with these adorable babies.

Met our dairy family.

My sister fed us deliciousness.

Luci slept.

We celebrated our first anniversary.

The Lion's Den

Someone woke up to go camping

The view at Cloudland Canyon

Time to go back to the kitchen. I'm trying to get a head start on Christmas Dinner. So far, I've made gluten free peanut butter and nutella cookies. They're so good I might need to make more.

Where's my sweet girl?

2010-12-12T01:08:00.000-05:00

The end of the year is coming up rapidly. I honestly feel like this has been the fastest year of my life. I don't know how to describe the sensation - but it has flown by. Right as I feel myself starting to relax and grasp the moment - another three weeks has gone by. I keep replaying when we were sitting in Sunny's (our wedding coordinator) office well over a year ago and she sighed and then said, "Once you get married, life starts to move a lot quicker."

Seriously. It's like we took some pills. Someone drugged us. That's what happened. That's why I feel like I'm just waking up.

I can't believe the end of the year is in about 3 weeks. I keep asking myself what did we do this year? Did I take enough pictures? Was I grump the whole time? The truth is we did a lot. And, maybe that's why I'm having trouble keeping track of it all.

God bless the internet. It helps me keep track of my life. Our lives. Are you ready for this?

Here we are, hello 2010.

Bobby took me to see Mariah

It snowed.

Windy got cold.

We saw Tallulah Gorge

I broke some hearts.

I baked.

I sewed.

Friends got married.

We sang.

We got schooled.

We saw the ocean.

Oh, yeah. We bought a house.

North Georgia State Fair

2010-10-06T18:51:00.000-04:00

Here are my favorite pictures from our trip to the fair. This was also my first time at a real American fair. I'm sorry family if I have been to a fair before - it has obviously been completely blocked out of my memory. Maybe because - as I discovered - the rides at the fair scare me more than the rides at Six Flags. This could be because the person manning the rides is either a 14 year old boy or middle aged man with an assortment of knives and guns on his waist - and dip in his mouth.

Burning wood

2010-10-06T18:46:00.000-04:00

I just turned on my camera and saw that I had pictures from our surprise date to the Botanical Gardens - in August. That's the problem with buying a huge memory card - you're not motivated to take the pictures off and show them to the world.

So now rather than writing my reviews, I'm uploading my pictures and stalking you on facebook. Classy evening, I promise.

We went to New York for Labor Day weekend to visit my sister and her husband. We had an amazing time (of course) and came back home convinced we were going to move there. This happens each and every time we go. It's a bug. Maybe one day. There's always Portland, too - which was our original plan. Anyways, I don't think we'll be moving anytime soon.

August and September have blown past and I'm realizing I need to keep better tack of time. I need to get better at taking a moment to right things down. Look at my pictures. Right on here. Because I otherwise I forget - it immediately exists my memory and I'm left having dreams about work or how someone tried to break into our only to steal our dogs. I need to exercise my brain.

Now it is October. I've put all my little Halloween decorations all around the house and pulled out all my cinnamon-apple-sweet-spice-holiday smelling candles. I'm already in the mood. Not necessarily for the holidays but for the winter. The one smell that - for me - is the essence of winter is burning wood. I can't wait to go camping. And I need a potluck in my life.

Time for a picture show.

Visiting Family

2010-08-24T23:24:00.000-04:00

Windy Day

2010-07-29T22:16:00.001-04:00

"Momma, I'm changing"

2010-07-29T20:32:00.000-04:00

One of our neighbors just got their first puppy for their son who is about 7 or 8. It's been funny watching the little boy walk his new puppy around our neighborhood - he's so proud.

I ran into his mom today who had a very funny story to tell me. So, you know how puppies are? Besides being adorable and precious - they're mouthy and like to chew on everything? Well, the other day - her and her boy and his loyal companion - man's best friend - we're taking a walk around the block. The puppy was acting out and started mouthing at the leash. The boy kept telling him to stop - and then the puppy put his mouth around the boy's ankle. He didn't bite - just mouthed it. Mouthed it enough. The boy suddenly dropped the leash and ran home screaming. His mom was so perplexed, she just started laughing and followed him home. When she got home the boy was crying hysterically. His mom said their were no teeth marks, his skin wasn't scratched - there was nothing on his ankle. When she explained to him that the puppy didn't hurt him and he shouldn't be so upset - he turned to her and said, "Momma, I'm changing." "Changing into what?" "A werewolf...I can feel it."

Bridezilla to be

2010-07-29T20:18:00.000-04:00

So, there's this girl at my work. (I should probably say young woman, but you know what I mean.)So, there's this girl at my work - who also happens to be one of the more souls I've made cry in the past month. Not intentionally. Anyways, I noticed that she had a picture of wedding dress hanging on the wall in her cubicle. So, of course, I thought - Oh! She must have just gotten engaged! Yipeee! But rather than running over and congratulating her - I kept walking to my desk. I knew I'd quickly get a frenzied look on my face and start shooting out questions: "have you picked out your colors?" "is this the dress" "have you picked a date?" "is there a theme?" and so forth - which could have overwhelmed her so much that she might have started crying. Again. This went through my mind the whole way to my desk.

Our paths crossed later and we exchanged greetings. I was about to keep walking but then I thought - I really don't feel like going back to my desk, "is that a picture of a wedding dress at your desk?" Even though it obviously is - "No, Robyn, that's the dress I have picked out for Prom this year. My boyfriend and I are going to be that creepy couple that dress like they're getting married for Prom."

The girl says "Yes, it's my dream dress that I picked out. I put it up for motivation." I assume she means motivation to loose weight. So rather than go down that awkward path which is more likely to lead to tears - I ask if they've set a date. That's a safe question right? "Actually..." she starts "He hasn't asked. Yet. But I'm working on it." By motivation she meant - motivation to keep working on him.

I forsee this girl being one crazy, emotional bridezilla.

I couldn't find a good picture of brides crying but I found this.

No Garlic?

2010-07-07T19:54:00.000-04:00

I think this is the first time we've gone to cook dinner and...there's no fresh garlic in the house. None.

This is unheard of...Bobby is in the kitchen opening every cabinet and lifting every plate hoping to find a delicious clove in the corner.

"This is bad."

Picnic tables and bags

2010-06-08T21:14:00.000-04:00

So, we moved in. We painted. We unpacked. We celebrated. And we plan on celebrating some more. All summer long.

We are loving our new home - and I think the hounds are loving it, too.

Our lookout

Gigantic fig tree - what do we do?

Favorite room

This is my sister's dog, Warsaw. He's the sweetest.

And these guys rule.

More pictures coming soon.

Travel Bug

2010-06-08T18:00:00.000-04:00

I dreamt last night I bought a plane ticket to Geneva for $630. I was so excited about finding such a good deal I made my family and friends buy tickets as well. We all carpooled to the airport in a frenzy - super excited about the extravagant trip we were going to have and how we were going to travel all over Europe. But when we arrived, we were told that our tickets were actually for Guatemala.

The reason they were so cheap was because all the mudslides and uh that giant SINKHOLE.

I've been obsessing over sinkholes recently.

My next idea was to take a trip to New York to visit my sister and her husband - but they were already at the airport with us. So, instead we decided to have a fashion show with all the clothes we had packed.

It was extravagant after all.

Iced toddy

2010-05-08T08:25:00.000-04:00

Today is the big move day. Por fin. We are so excited but also just a bit on edge, which is expected, right? I was telling a friend - I feel like we are more stressed out now than we were for the wedding. Hah. Just ready to be done with a landlord.

We decided to treat ourselves to breakfast and coffee this morning at San Fran Coffee. Of course, in the middle of ordering, the gas company calls to say they're heading to the house to turn the gas on. I had a horrible premonition that in the time we waited for our delicious coffee and bagels the gas guy would run up to our door, do a quick knock and leave without a call. You know how sneaky they can be? I'm glad they're coming now - originally it was anytime between 8 am and MIDNIGHT!

So here I am at the candler park location, watching as everyone comes in to grab their cup of coffee to start their weekend. Some people look like they're wearing what they wore last night. Mainly it is that chic combo look of "I'm ready to run a 5k but please don't mess up my hair and makeup" - enchante! Anyways, I'm gonna go limber up or something.

I hope everyone has a super, fantabulous weekend!

I will be seeing your faces soon!

Much love from Team RoBo

My Life in Gif

2010-05-05T20:31:00.000-04:00

Easter was glorious as usual. We ate way too much and laughed hard all day long.

I contributed to the eating too much by making a Apple-Turtle Cheesecake topped with rollos. That's right, folks. Rollos.

That's an "E" for Easter.

Bobby and Josh played a thrilling game of HORSE

Followed by a sweet, family jam session.

We had our first yard sale which for some reason we really enjoyed. I think Bobby liked pretending he was running a real shop - he had music playing for everyone and was quite the haggler.

Windy was a really bad dog. No more freedom for her.

Luci was upset, too.

We closed on the house! Then immediately went to St. Simon's. The same day. It was tough. We were excited to see family and spend time at the beach - but uh, we just bought a house.

St. Simon's was beautiful. The weather was perfect and Luci got to come with us!

Luci got to see the ocean for the first time.

Here's me on the special bike.

So, yeah. That's what we've been up to in gif. I've also been going to flamenco practice just about every day. We're having a free in-studio performance tomorrow. I'm super excited and nervous! Our first performance is May 15th. So soon.

Progress at the house is going well. We've painted the living room, hallway and kitchen.

This

is now this

We're holding off on painting the bedrooms to see what colors come to us. What the walls say to us. Or something.

Big move is this weekend. And I cannot wait!

Birthday parties. Summer parties. Cookouts. Bocce. Yard work.

Soul Searchin

2010-04-18T21:08:00.000-04:00

We're homeowners!

What an eventful last few days. The day of the closing, we went to the house to meet our realtor for a final walk through. He called to say he was going to be running late - something about having to kill a copperhead and his 9 week old having a goose egg on his forehead.

We got off to a bad start - at first glance, the oven and HVAC appeared to not be working. there was lots of miss communication between the owner of the house - the seller's realtor - our realtor and the inspector. It looked like some minor fixes hadn't been completed after THREE inspections. What was supposed to be a thirty minute walk through turned into 3 hours of us stomping around with our arms crossed and shaking our heads. Thankfully though, the owner of the house showed up and called his contractor up to walk us through everything and show that yes everything had been fixed and we needed to calm down. So off we went to close and celebrate with chicken salad sandwiches and a bottle of champagne. Tres bon!

Unfortunately (but still nice), we didn't get to hang out in the house this weekend - we went down to St. Simon's for a mini family spring break. Luci got to see the ocean for the first time, we played lots of bocce and I rode a trike (I need one).

Now we are back home finalizing our moving homes and listening to Delilah. I didn't get into grad school - bum out. Time for some soul searchin. I'm thinking of trying again next year but till then I want to change.

Pictures coming soon.

Ta boule me manque

2010-03-18T17:38:00.000-04:00

Life in general

We've been approved for the loan for the house! Now we are waiting to have the house re-inspected (after the seller completes the needed repairs) and closing in April. Ole!

We canceled cable once and for all. And even managed to get a $25 credit out of it.

I didn't get into GSU - which I'm not very surprised. I am totally bummed out about it, but I am still keeping my head up. When I met with the director of the department back in January, he mentioned that they were having bad money problems - "looking under every rock, for every penny". I'm assuming I didn't get in because they're having money problems and only letting in the super badass people. Maybe I'm only badass. Keeping my fingers crossed for Emory. If I don't get in there, then I am going to plan to get certified for something.

Interesting "certified" careers I never knew existed or sound awesome:
certified ethical hacker
certified industrial hygienist
certified strength and conditioning specialist
certified lactation consultant
certified scrum master
certified usability analyst

So many to choose from...

These boots.

2010-03-09T22:04:00.000-05:00

My cowboy boots have carried me very far...

Through busy streets

To Beatrix Potter's home

Thru flocks of sheep

To Henry IV's castle

Down secret paths

I love my boots.

Book Hoarder

2010-03-07T14:37:00.000-05:00

I have a problem hoarding books. If I see a book, pamphlet, leaflet - you name it that looks interesting or funny - I have to take it. At my job, they've set up a bookshelf in the lobby where people conveniently donate there old books and I walk by everyday and give them new homes. The best part is that the majority of the books all have to do with Southern Culture.

Recently, the donations have gotten real good: Better Homes and Gardens Best Buffet Cook Books from 1974, 1927-2002 Springboard to the Future: Seventy-five years of Victory in the Scintillating USA Southern Territory - and these 5 awesome community recipe books.

Georgia Recipes for Family Fun and Food by the Women's Auxiliary to the Medical Association of Atlanta

There are some very interesting drawings in here

Even has a recipe for making yogurt that I plan on trying

Letters to Colleen: Notes & Recipes from a Southern Kitchen by Lou Harshaw (North Carolina Cooking)

The real Colleen

Puttin' on the Peachtree: Dining in Atlanta Style by The Junior League of Dekalb County

The Cotton Country Collection by The Junior League of Monroe (New Orleans/Lousiana Cooking)

Also includes drawings from L.H. Sartor

Pastors Wives Cookbook by Sybel Dubose

Not too excited about that last one. The recipes are popular for being simple and "easy". There is a recipe that calls for canned shrimp (to say the least). Otherwise, I hope to be cooking up some delicious rémoulade, corn dogs and homemade yogurt.

Picture Show

2010-03-04T21:28:00.000-05:00

We got snow - and a pretty good amount. For Georgia that is - Luci didn't like it:

Windy wanted to spend all day in it:

America's oldest pug, named Wilma

Delicious dinner on a budget: One packet of orzo + 4 oz goat cheese with herbs + spinach + mushrooms = food for days

Sassy pants

My first REAL cake - Red Velvet Cake

For Karen's birthday

And as promised, my incredibly cheesy Valentine's Day present for Bobby. I need to retake these in natural light.

Let me sing you to sleep

2010-03-03T20:31:00.000-05:00

I'm in the process of uploading the rest of my pictures from this past month and watching some old videos.

Here is a classic from Grandma Luci:

Always the romantic

2010-03-03T20:20:00.000-05:00

Bobby's Grandfather's funeral was this past weekend. The whole day was very special. We cried, we held hands, we sat in silence. But, as usual, by the end of the day we were all stuffed and making fun of how many chins we had to keep up.

We arrived at the funeral hall and Bobby went into the restroom to change into his suit. I was standing in the lobby when his Dad came by to tell me that there was a slide show going on in the "HGTV" room - insert model room with fireplace - those rooms always have an interesting book collection. We all sat there and watched the slide show several times until the rest of the family showed up. The pictures were sweet and funny, just like Grandpa.

But then there was this one...I've seen it before and always thought it was such a perfect photo.

My father-in-law explained that it was taken during his time in Okinawa. He had a friend take the picture so he could send it to his wife and wrote "Thinking of you" on the back.

Under Contract --> Grant Park

2010-03-01T16:46:00.000-05:00

I'm a little bit in shock. But in less than 24 hours, this house you see, hit the market - we made an offer - and now we're under contract.

Is it too early to get buyer's remorse?

More news coming soon.

Harold Dean Power

2010-02-22T09:18:00.000-05:00

September 15, 1933 - February 20, 2010

We'll miss your wonderful laughter and your beautiful smile.

Best Dinner - Ever

2010-02-15T20:17:00.001-05:00

Last night was a true treat for our mouths. We love food - we love cooking. But after last night, my mind was blown. I've never had more flavorful bites. The atmosphere was perfect - not in the least bit uptight. Everyone was smiling and happy. It was even family friendly. Yes, it was expensive - but I dare say - it was worth it. We couldn't decide what was our favorite - each course was special and stood alone but carried the whole night together. So romantic. The best response was after we ate the raw oysters, we both looked at each other and exclaimed, "I just took a bite of the ocean."

I love you, Kevin.

I will post pictures of the beautiful, purple orchids Bobby got me and the awesome embroidered briefs I made him. Funny that we both chose purple.

Exciting news: Windy has been out of her kennel since Friday! We left her out all day today and nothing was destroyed! I bet she slept all day - lazy hound.

I'm hoping this means her kennel is going in the attic soon.

She's a big ole hound dog.

PS: I have bangs again.

Your Name is All Over Town

2010-02-11T21:12:00.000-05:00

Love?

A couple weeks ago, we went on a walk in the neighborhood when we came upon a wall where someone had sprayed, "Robyn, I still love you". We took a few steps and there was another, "Robyn, I miss you". Obviously, there must be another Robyn. But I like to pretend they are for me. Someone misses me so much they've sprayed my name all over Reynoldstown. We went around today and took pictures before they get painted over.

These are "crucified" stuffed animals someone has pleasantly placed on Dekalb Ave by Krog St.

Practice Makes Perfect?

2010-02-11T20:59:00.000-05:00

Aah! My Flamenco teacher just emailed me asking if I'd like to participate in the MAY performance! And join her Thursday class!

Really?

Must start practicing. Seriously.

Crack house

2010-02-10T18:55:00.000-05:00

We've started hunting for our first home which is very, very excited. We called a realtor in the area to get some more information and help - because we don't know anything. The first day we went out with him was awkward. The houses he was showing us were a bit out of our budget and in areas we didn't have much interest in.

This Sunday we went back out and had a little more luck. We saw this little house on a hill that he said used to be a crack house. Winner.

Then some people bought it and put a lot of love into it. It has 2 bedrooms and a completed attic. The backyard has a slight incline but is a pretty nice size. We're still looking around - I told Bobby this reminded me of shopping for a wedding dress or wedding venue. We've still got more neighborhoods to check and lots of research to do.

Valentine's is this weekend and I can't wait to post a picture of what I made Bobby!

Bodas de Sangre

2010-02-10T10:21:00.000-05:00

I started my flamenco class last week and so far I love it. Last night was our second class. We spent the beginning of class watching footage of this Gypsy family performing and listening to the music. I've alwayed loved flamenco. The music stirs up so much emotion within me I never know if to cry or laugh. The dance is absolutely beautiful and, to me, embodies every emotion - but most importantly passion.

To me, Spanish people are so full of passion. They love passionately, they cook passionately and they fight passionately. Watching the dancers always makes me think of a couple fighting. It is such a beautiful expression of emotion.

I bought the skirt. Next is the shoes. Then practice. It is a great upper body workout. Our teacher says that yoga and Pilate help so I will be doing those as well. I really want to learn this dance and be decent enough.

Ole

Oh, Jens...

2010-01-28T20:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you for making me feel so lovey.

I've been feeling like I'm coming down with something. Sniffles. Cough. And more sleepy than usual. Yes, I know that is surprising. I talked to my Doctor once about this sleepiness. It runs in the family - my Dad, sister and I have the uncanny ability to fall asleep anywhere, anytime. Just about - I can't take Dad to the movies because he starts snoring. I was hoping my doctor would say maybe we all had a mild case of narcolepsy but instead she said it sounded like we had a form of ADD and wanted to do some tests and blah blah blah. "Nevermind."

So, after waking from my sweet slumber on the couch, I decided to make some miso soup. I looove me some miso soup and it is so easy to make. At sevananda they sell Westbrae Natural: Mellow Brown Rice Miso Paste that conveniently comes with a recipe on the label.

Following my bowl of miso soup, I am making a cup of tea: hot water, ginger, lemon and honey. I realized today that pollen season is near - type to consume more honey!

I haven't been seen sick in 2 years this month which is a little bit of an accomplishment for me. I feel that I'm finally an adult and have learned how to take care of myself and fight off sickness - without having to go to the doctor each time.

I owe a lot of this to my dear friend, Von. I was her intern during my time at WAND. The majority of my eating/cooking habits that I now have I learned from her. She introduced me to Buried Treasure - which I SWEAR by! So, if you feel your self getting sick and rest/tea/any normal stuff isn't doing the trick go buy some Buried Treasure at sevananda (along with miso paste).

Seventh Wonder Number 1

2010-01-26T18:08:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a good weekend! These past few weeks have been tough at work. I don't want to whine but...well, we all know. I am, however, really thankful of the people I have gotten to meet. We've developed quite the support group and I'm sure this year will be our year of improvement. Along with those lines of improvement include getting off my butt. I signed up for flamenco class three weeks ago but it has been delayed due to not enough people signing up so Windy and I have been enjoying long afternoon jogs/power walks. She's been getting a little lazy herself.

Plus, with the fryer we got for Christmas...we've only used it three times but I feel guilty just thinking about it. I'm sorry heart.

This weekend we decided that we would head up to Tallulah Gorge rain or shine. Luckily, the weather was "England-like" - cold and misty - our favorite. The trees looked mysterious and blurred. Like Big Foot was in our midst.

On our way up, we took the scenic route and stopped at a convenience shop which held promises of warm hot cider and memorabilia.

Bobby picked up some Peach Salsa (smells pretty good) and we took a look out there "Free Patio Overlook". They had these awesome boots I wanted to use for plants - I will have to get one on our next trip.

We also learned about the Great Wallenda and later saw the tower he used to cross the gorge.

(I should mention that I am also terribly afraid of heights and get scared even seeing my loved ones near edges. At our old 3rd floor apartment, I want to put white lights around our patio - of course due to my fear - Bobby had to do it. Thinking back, this was probably extremely dangerous and if Bobby's Mom ever heard that I let him do this would be very upset. 3rd story + Bobby standing on a chair hanging lights = me crying in fear and him laughing)- I enjoyed the views at the gorge by casually standing/holding onto a pole or any available railing.

Before our trip to Hawaii, every time we saw a sign for a scenic route one of us usually exclaimed, "Should we?!" "Yeah" "Nah." "Yeah..." "Nah, I don't think you can see anything(drives past sign and possibly most beautiful sight in the world, too bad) "Too late". But now we know. Plus, it doesn't hurt.

The park had a very easy trail with 5 Overlooks - which was great for those of us out of shape - Luci. The hounds were well behaved the whole day and seemed to enjoy the time in their natural habitat.

These are the remnants of the tower Wallenda used to cross the gorge

And if you look closely in this picture you will see a red tower towards the center - that's where he finished.

I'm not sure which wonder we are going to visit next but we're starting to add more to our list - Ruby Falls and Cloudland Canyon.

New Year's Resolutions

2010-01-14T18:38:00.000-05:00

When I was little we used to always do resolutions. They never really meant anything to me and I usually just re-wrote what I wrote the previous year. Obviously though, my resolutions then consisted of "don't fight with my sister" "don't snoop" and so forth.

I've had such a positive sense about this year and so I felt it was imperative that we write resolutions and also partake in my family's New Year's traditions.

In Venezuela, those who want to complete all their resolutions must hold them in their hand, those who want money must have a bill of high value when they toast, those who want to travel must carry some luggage, those who want to find love are supposed to wear red underwear and yellow underwear is worn to bring happiness in the New Year. Another tradition is to eat 12 grapes the last twelve seconds of the year - the grapes represent the 12 months of the new year. Each time the clock chimes you eat a grape - the sweet ones are supposed to represent good luck and if you get a sour one it means that month may be hard. If you finish all your grapes it is good luck.

We all had our hands filled and mouths full!

And of course bellies full of collards, cornbread, hoppin johns, pan de jamon and cauliflower.

Here are my 2010 Resolutions:

Volunteer - So far, the only organization to get back to me has been Slow Food Atlanta. They're having a new member pot luck this Sunday! It will serve as a meet and greet and opportunity to get more information on what we can do to help. Bobby and I both want to have land someday even though we wouldn't know where to start. I like to believe it is all instinctual since we both come from families with farming. We're hoping to volunteer at the farms.

Learn to sew a dress/outfit - aka something more than alterations and making dog toys.

Complete a photo project of Luci - she's my muse

Take a dance class - I'm already signed up for flamenco!

Start making our own cheese and yogurt

Start canning and pickling

Cancel cable - after Big Love

Spend more time with our parents

Visit the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia - aka take more day trips. First up, Stone Mountain

Read more books - finish the one I've been reading since June. Oops.

And of course, be healthier and more active.

This year I will do all of my resolutions. Or else, I will just rewrite them again next year.

Two Weeks In

2010-01-14T18:13:00.000-05:00

We're two weeks into the New Year and besides Bobby's stomach flu he had the first weekend, it has been an awesome year so far.

Christmas was rushed but nice. We didn't get to spend as much time as we wanted with our loved ones but atleast we got to see their beautiful faces and tell them how much we love them.

Bobby took one for the team and went to work on Christmas Eve. I spent the majority of the day at home cooking and chatting away with Kelly. It was very sweet. I miss my ladies but I am so proud of them.

I baked a traditional venezolano receta - pan de jamon. Actually, I'm lying it wasn't traditional. Traditionally, you put olives and/or raisins. I had neither so it was just good ole ham and cheese bread:

Other dishes we had on our menu were:

Cauliflower Poppers - so delicious I made them again for New Years

This picture doesn't do them justice - they're really packed with flavor! Hence, the name cauliflower POPPERS.

Parmigiano Reggiano Broccoli

Horseradish Mashed Potatoes

As you can tell, we're loving our kitchen even more with all the new toys we got from the wedding. My breadmaker makes the most delicious pizza dough -

Our goal this Christmas was to make everything homemade. (Because we're broke.)I made these "gift bags" which looked like a 5th grader's art project. I don't think I got any pictures of them. We also made each of our family members their own personal cornbread:

That evening Bobby's mom got into town and we made a vegan pizza together. Again very sweet.

We stayed at my Dad's house over Christmas and I did what I do best: Snoop. I found a treasure of photos in the garage. Makes me really appreciate film.

Such gems:

In My Bones

2010-01-14T18:03:00.000-05:00

I can feel it in my bones. This year is going to be a good year.