Life Tonic

suspended indefinitely

2008-04-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

I'm shutting down this blog, but I'll still be visiting yours! I'll get in touch and let you know where I'll pop up online next.

Ashley

the start of an era: thrifting

2008-04-23T12:54:00.000-07:00

I'm not one of those cool people with an apartment adorned with second-hand, thrifted, "vintage" items (anyone else find that people are using vintage to describe almost everything??), but....

I might eventually!

This past weekend I was in Bellingham, WA (about 1.5 hours north of Seattle) and had the afternoon to myself to walk around. My favorite stop was a store called Penny Lane that was just brimming with all sorts of odds and ends at fantastic prices. I scooped up this fan and can't get enough of the gently worn teal base and red logo. I've been shopping for similar fans in the Seattle area but haven't been able to find one for less than $80, so when I saw this for $26, I just had to snag it!

I think thrifting and I are going to become great friends.

It's tyrosine!

2008-04-18T12:42:00.000-07:00

This morning while my coffee was brewing, I stared lazily at a rind of aged gouda sitting on the counter (need to clean the kitchen--bad) and thought, "That was a good cheese. It had those little crunchy bits in it. I wonder what those are? I like gritty gouda. Hmm...gritty gouda sounds funny, tee hee." Then the coffee was done and I went about getting ready for my day.

Then this afternoon rolls around, and the answer to my musings this morning shows up in my google reader! And as you might have guessed from the title of this post, those gritty bits are called tyrosine. Mystery solved via the kitchn.

Shoe score!

2008-04-15T15:19:00.000-07:00

While fawning over the shoes from my last post, I ran across another pair of Faryl Robins that I instantly just had to have. This time, though, got them (as in, they're already shipped and on the way to my office!)!

The best part? I was just about to make the purchase on Zappos, when I decided to google them for a deal, just in case. I wasn't expecting much since I wasn't able to find a deal on the pink pair, but to my surprise and utter delight, I was able to snag these for $55 at Luna Boston (yeah, I hadn't heard of it either, but I talked to them on the phone and they are super nice and helpful). Woo hoo!!

Can't wait to wear them with a pretty skirt combo like some of these from Anthro:

image from anthropologie

And meanwhile, because apparently I'm obsessed with shoes right now, I also have my eyes on these from Frye:
Too bad the $55 I already spent on shoes is $55 over my budget!!

shoe images from zappos

being good.

2008-04-14T15:15:00.001-07:00

How in love am I with these shoes?!?!? $188. Ouch. I will just have to admire them from here...

@ anthropologie.

Look over there!

2008-04-09T13:15:00.000-07:00

I wrote a guest post on Angela's blog today about...drumroll please...whipped egg whites.

Check it out.

Oh, and that is my black Pomeranian, Aiden, who just got a haircut for spring. Isn't he the cutest?!?!?

...and more chocolate

2008-03-28T12:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is getting serious. My newfound penchant for bittersweet chocolate is only getting worse, mostly because ~~I have no will power~~ there are so many new kinds to try. The latest? Endangered Species Chocolate. This is one of the more common brands I see around, but I've never tried it because, well, images of sad animals on the wrappers don't make me think "dessert."

Now, I love animals as much as the next person, but I wouldn't necessarily trust a group of animal lovers to be fine chocolatiers. But oh! how wrong I was! Oh, the chocolate! I had the bar with the bat (bat? chocolate? see what I mean?) on the wrapper, which turns out is dark chocolate with cacao nibs (70% cacao). Now not only am I enamored with bittersweet chocolate, but oh! cacao nibs! I wonder if I can eat those plain. As in massive quantities. Every day. Must do research.

Anyway, what is a cacao nib, you ask? I wondered too, so thanks to wikipedia I learned that cacao nibs are the cacao tree seeds after they've been fermented, dried, roasted, and shelled (and before they're processed further to render chocolate). I must eat more chocolate with nibs--can't get enough of that crunch!

I have a feeling I'm going to be saving a lot of animals at the rate I'm anticipating eating this chocolate.

You know you're lazy at work when...

2008-03-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

-Your stomach is growling at you for lunch, but you don't go get anything and insist that the 3 grams of fiber in your Crystal Lite should hold you over until dinner.

-The printer is only eight feet away, yet you print everything you think you might possibly need throughout the day at one time in hopes you only have to get up once.

-You start drinking less liquid so you don't have to walk to the bathroom as much.

-You take a chance of missing the last mail pickup because you insist on dropping it off on your way out the door at the end of the day instead of taking it down earlier.

-You desperately want chocolate, but you don't want to walk anywhere so you tell yourself you'll get it later when you can take the car.

...not that I've done any of those things or anything. Or done all of them in a single day. Nope, never!

happenings

2008-03-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

indulging: in lots, and I mean lots, of chocolate. The past couple of nights it's been the Oaxaca Bar by Vosges Haut Chocolat. This bar is a Tanzanian bittersweet chocolate (75% cacao) with pasilla chiles. I really want to try the Mo's Bacon Bar, but I'm limiting my sugars and the cacao content isn't high enough (74% or higher for me, please!).

indulging, part II: You know I can't stop at having just chocolate for dessert--of course not! That's why I've been pairing my chocolate selections with a petite pour of Les Clos de Paulilles Banyuls Rimage 2005, a French dessert wine and an affordable luxury at $20. I usually favor ports over other dessert wines, but the sweet, syrupy flavor of this is the perfect complement to my spicy chocolate.

drinking: Saumur 2006 (appelation saumur controlee). I've long grown tired of oaky whites, so I love the sparkling acidic punch of this wine. Plus, it just screams of green apples. We've gone through three bottles of this already! I will be buying it again and again, which I can guiltlessly do because it's only about $13!

watching: Finished Season 1 of The Tudors! I was surprised to find this is a show that men would enjoy as much, if not more, than women. Or on second thought...lots of fighting and lots of boobs is no mystery formula. Men don't need more than that, do they? Carry on!

reading: lots! I added a section in the sidebar with the books I'm currently reading. Right now, The Omnivore's Dilemma is a favorite. I never thought reading pages upon pages of the history of corn could be so fascinating, but apparently it is. Though history and culture of food is not exactly a new interest (first sparked by reading The United States of Arugula and Good Calories, Bad Calories), this is bound to be one of those life changing books for me.

eating: so many chicken wings! Starting an informal "Seattle Wing Tasting Tour" that I will eventually turn into a web page of sorts. Right now some experiences are casually reviewed over on Yelp, but I will start the real deal soon. It's such a hard job. :)

watching, part II: Helvetica. Even if you're not interested in typography or graphic design, celebrate the 50th anniversary of this font that is all around you (as you will discover) by watching this film. Here's a peek (I particularly love the interview in the second half of the clip):

I'm results-oriented, so why do I feel so unsuccessful?

2008-03-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Who considers themselves results-oriented? Yeah, me too. And I've learned it sucks.

I blame work.

In business, it goes without saying it's all about projects, deadlines and the bottom line. Results, people! The person or team who achieves the results is always going to be financially and/or socially rewarded, regardless if they were "nice" about doing it or boosted company morale along the way.

But let's be honest. It didn't begin with work. We were all in the results-oriented camp long before we reported to a boss or had our livelihood dangling on sales targets. In fact, as children we quickly learned that by accomplishing certain results, we'd receive rewards, praise, or encouragement in return. You know what we also learned? How to get those rewards the easy way. Yeah, we were pretty smart as kids.

I'll use myself as an example:
School was easy. I was that annoying girl in class who whiled away the fifty minutes by writing notes and reading a novel surreptitiously tucked into an oversized textbook. And I got A's. As you can imagine, the parents approved and as such, I stuck with it. After all, it was a straight, easy path to praise and rewards.

On the other hand, I wanted to play volleyball. And play volleyball I did, though I was never good enough to warrant any special recognition or praise. So what did I do? I quit. Though I may have enjoyed playing the sport, I certainly wasn't getting enough positive reinforcement for the efforts I was putting in.

This inherent focus on results is how and why most of us have come to possess what is called a fixed-mindset. People with a fixed-mindset don't think it should take a lot of work and effort to succeed. They shy away from challenge because they believe rewards should come easy; otherwise, it's not worth trying because failure is not an option. After all, a failure would be catastrophic to their reputation, which can only be upheld by a continuous stream of successes and achievements. Whatever they do, they believe they should do it extremely well. It's only fun if you succeed.

If you are recognizing that maybe you too have fallen victim to the fixed mindset, there is hope! At the other end of the spectrum rests what is referred to as a growth-mindset. People with a growth-mindset foster learning, accept failures along the way and learn from their mistakes.

Here are a few ways you can start fostering the growth-mindset today:

Set learning goals (not performance goals).

Recognize that you hold enormous potential. Your intelligence and ability can be developed. You are not stuck with what you currently have--it's merely a starting point.

Don't expect perfection. It's the enemy of learning.

Reward effort, not only achievement. Effort is the only thing you can control. Making effort is committing yourself to get results.

As you abandon your identity as a results-oriented person, keep in mind these poignant words from Calvin Coolidge:

“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan “press on” has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.”

Things I want to make but probably won't

2008-03-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

I spend an embarrassing amount of time getting excited about projects that will more than likely never see the time of day. Here are some of them:

Infused vodkas, especially with oats and honey
Pancetta
Copycat these pillows
Pore cleansing strips
Glasses and vases from wine bottles
Laundry soap

Of course, I'll get to those after I learn to write a Facebook app, use Photoshop, Illustrator, inDesign and Lightroom, install a little photo set-up for still life shots, and create a website. Oh, and keep up with my blog while I'm at it. Obviously that is going fantastically well.. :-)

merry happy

2008-03-13T14:05:00.001-07:00

I have been overwhelmingly busy, but I can easily say that with every day that flies by, I am exponentially more happy. It's serious, ya'll. I can't sleep, think straight, or keep a grin off my face. It is seriously that good.

My plan for Sunday is to come back to earth for a few hours and catch up on life, the blog, and my sink full of dirty dishes (and I never keep dishes in the sink, so you have to realize this is major!).

Oh, and "merry happy" is a song by Kate Nash, and though the lyrics don't necessarily tell a happy story, I like the sentiment of the phrase. I am very merry happy.

How weekends are supposed to go

2008-03-03T09:15:00.000-08:00

Friday: T and I stocked up on lots of red wine and really, really bad movies to relax and escape the rain and cold. And relax we did! We stayed up laughing and having lots of conversation that can only be appreciated when both parties are drunk and trust each other--it can get embarrassing, but that is the best part!

Saturday: Spent the morning nursing my liver, then met up with Marissa in the afternoon to catch up and test out the coffee at the highly acclaimed Stickman Coffee in Fremont. The coffee was just ok, but as always, Marissa was a hoot. That girl can talk about anything from erotica authors to century+ old methods of storing root vegetables.

Saturday night, I fell in love...with a cocktail. T, Maia and I had a quick dinner and cocktail at the new and buzzworthy gastropub (Seattle's first!), Quinn's before catching a show. My friends are probably tired of hearing about it, but one their signature cocktails blew me away: The Dirty Little Secret. Bombay gin shaken with cucumber and served up with a cornichon (how did I not know about these delectable, tiny pickles?).

Sunday: Spent the morning drinking good coffee and reading the paper, then walked to the grocery store to stock up on wine, chocolate, and cheese for the week (my ultimate nutrition trifecta). The sun was streaming in through the windows, so spending my afternoon at the computer working on C# projects didn't feel like a chore at all. Finished the day drinking wine, nibbling on Manchego and watching a movie with SOS.

I don't think it gets better than that, folks!

Dress to Mingle: Meet More People with a Whatzit

2008-02-27T12:48:00.000-08:00

There's a good chance there's one thing you're missing that's keeping you from meeting several new people a day. Oh, really? You doubt that? Well then put your hands up and show me you're Whatzit--you're under Whatzit arrest.

Whatzit's a word I picked up from the book, How to Talk to Anyone: 92 Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationships. The technique is foolproof and one I've used for a long time without realizing it was a "technique" at all. So, what exactly is a Whatzit?

"A Whatzit is any object that draws people's attention and inspires them to approach you and ask, 'Uh, What's that?'"

Everyone's been there. You see someone you want to talk to on the bus, standing in line at the coffee shop or grocery store, or with you in the elevator, but you have no excuse to approach them! Some people rely on commenting on the weather--after all, it's one thing you for sure will have in common with a person standing next to you at any given time--but you ~~run the risk of making a vanilla first impression~~ are guaranteed to make a vanilla first impression. Last time I checked, remarking how cold/hot/[insert weather condition here] it is outside didn't inspire any captivating conversation. Or get you a date.

This is where the Whatzit comes in.

It doesn't especially matter what you choose to be your Whatzit, though keep in mind you want it to attract the right people as well as fit in appropriately with the situation (e.g. I would probably never use something with skulls on it. Just sayin'.)

Remember the key purpose is to give people an easy excuse to approach you.

After they initiate conversation (and they will, lots and lots of them), you get to choose how personal you make the conversation or if a simple "thank you" will suffice. It's up to you!

What? What's that you say? You're wondering what exactly is hanging around my neck in the photo? I'm not surprised! This Whatzit wasn't intended to be a conversation catalyst, but I'd be hard pressed to name a day that someone hasn't commented on it*. Whether strangers on the bus, cashiers, people at bars, coworkers, or friends, both male and female, they've all made a comment about it. I can't tell you why it works (maybe the irony of a preppy girl like me adorning herself with a firearm), but just believe me when I say it does.

So, what is your Whatzit?

*The necklace is the Revolver Single Charm Necklace from Charmed and Dangerous. Charmed and dangerous, indeed!

snap happy

2008-02-25T09:35:00.000-08:00

I did not one, but two photo walks this weekend!

-Morning stroll through the Olympic Sculpture Garden downtown (end of my Seattle set)

-Late afternoon walk through the Georgetown 'hood

-Some pics of me. I haven't had my picture taken since November, so it was about time!

happenings

2008-02-20T12:19:00.000-08:00

listening: The Gourds. T and I saw them live on Valentine's Day, and just as I expected, their performance was engaging and made me forget that the day was intended to be spent with a man (T is better company, anyway!). I've been listening to them pretty much nonstop since, and their album, Live at Bluebird Theater,even got me dancing in the shower this morning(probably not attractive, but festive!).

learning: C#. My C# class finally started up this week, and I couldn't be more enthralled. In fact, I stayed up until almost 1am last night talking about it!

hiring: an illustrator! I'm commissioning some illustrations for a new blog project I have been working on the last couple of weeks. I'm still not sure if I'm going to pursue it, but it's fun to take a blog design more seriously and talk to an artist about it!

subscribing: The New York Times, finally! I don't know why I've waited so long to order a weekend subscription--it's so cheap! My plan is to take it to this coffee shop up the street from my house on most Saturday and Sunday mornings.

...and otherwise, somehow staying really busy!

February List Update:

1. See Atonement. Did it! I met up with T, Angela, and Angela's friend Sarah for some dinner and drinks downtown before going to the movie. I don't think any of us liked it as much as we'd hoped we would, but it was still fun to hang out with everyone!

2. Cook a nice meal for myself. Done! Bonus for drinking extra wine. ;)

3. Visit an art gallery. This weekend?

4. Comedy club. Still a to do. I meant to see Lisa Lampanelli, but I had the days mixed up.

5. Walk in snow. I'm not sure this is going to happen! Things keep coming up on the weekends.

6. Buy something for the apartment. Check! I bought new bed pillows and a pretty turquoise cast iron enamel pot. Can't wait to cook something in that thing!

7. Experience a new coffee shop. Saturday! With my New York Times!

8. Photo walk. No excuse, really. Also this weekend...?

9. Get Holga film developed. Man, I suddenly feel like I have plans for this weekend. ;)

Cure for a day of shopping for shoes and clothes:

2008-02-15T14:10:00.000-08:00

Buy a book instead. You'll save money and be much happier. :)

If you didn't guess, I ended a long morning of unsuccessful apparel and shoe shopping with a quick stop at a used bookstore I've been meaning to visit for as long as I can remember. The selection was lackluster at best, but about the same time as one of the owner's cats began snuggling against my leg, I spotted the book, The Design Collection: Selected Objects.
Memories of snobby salespeople, shoes I can't afford, and blah clothing vanished as I oohed and aahhd over the pages upon pages of design classics, just begging to be framed.

More images on flickr.
Thinking you also need some pictures of some chairs? Good deals on Amazon marketplace.

Love at 24

2008-02-14T12:42:00.000-08:00

First, some heart pouring:

I used to think that meeting The One would knock me over the head, leaving me dizzy with happiness forever and ever... Instead, I had homework to do, which conveniently enough he would be able to do for me. I sported a baby blue Dell t-shirt with a large image of a PC on the back of it (I knew he liked computers and I wasn't messing around!), a denim skirt that showed my legs so at least he would get something out of it, and probably flip flops since I don't remember wearing any other shoes during college. Fast forward from that fateful day in 2002, and we went through graduations, breakups, job changes, new cities, vacations, an engagement, and ultimately the breakup. Love. Schlove.

Despite everything, I am not spending today feeling bitter, regretful, or resentful, because more and more this last year I have learned to love myself. I realize that I cannot depend on The One or The Next One to make me happy, because it's entirely in my control (and he can leave!). I am challenging myself in new ways, accepting failures, applauding successes, taking chances, and being grateful for the little things that stay the same. I have nursed relationships with family, separated myself from negative people and replaced them with positive and inspiring friends. I have learned to push personal boundaries and care less about what other people think. I am learning that a lot of being happy comes from making others happy. I am learning what love really is, and what it can be.

So with renewed optimism, a positive spirit, and lots of love, today I'm celebrating a healed and open heart.

xoxo

Embroidery WIP

2008-02-12T10:15:00.001-08:00

My progress on projects is only getting slower, so this would-be Valentine's gift for my sister is now a spoiled surprise, but hey, I'm working on it!

That wrinkled mess is a flour sack towel from the Martha Stewart collection at Macy's. It seems like it will make a nice lint-free towel, except the slightly loose weave makes the embroidery a little tricky. I'm stitching using the split stitch with four strands of floss. I've switched from using an embroidery needle to what's called a chenille needle, and I couldn't be more pleased. The chenille needle is shorter and the eye is long and slender, making it much easier to thread.

This is the first time I've attempted creating my own transfer as in the past I've used the iron-ons, evidenced by the images of a hand mixer forever printed on my ironing board from my first embroidery project. Oops!

This time I bought one of the mystery pencils at the craft store labeled "Heat Transfer." The transfer process is easy. Print out or free-hand your design (taking care to mirror text), trace your design onto tracing paper, then iron on to fabric. In order to get my image to show on the fabric, I had to draw pretty thick lines, and from what I've read this stuff doesn't wash out. It worked fine for this project since I'm using pink floss anyway, but in the future I think I'm going to have to find a better transfer pencil or method.

My transfer, after lots of line-thickening and lots and lots of ironing:

By the way, the quote pays homage to the comedian Chelsea Handler, but I also don't drink to make myself more interesting. I can say that it probably makes me more fun, though! ;)

Nine things I want to do in February

2008-02-06T12:17:00.000-08:00

1. Go see Atonement, even if I have to go solo.

2. Cook a nice, complete meal for myself, just because! Wine optional, but necessary.

3. Visit at least one art gallery.

4. Go to a comedy club.

5. Walk in snow (with snowshoes on, preferably!).

6. Do/buy one thing for the apartment, however small.

7. Try a new coffee or tea shop and for once, actually sit and read instead of bolting out the door.

8. Go on a photo walk.

9. Take one more roll of film with my Holga and finally get some developed!

Guess I'll take the one in the center doing the spread eagle

2008-02-05T06:35:00.000-08:00

My sister and I have this thing where whenever two guys walk by, one of us will try to call the better looking one first, usually in the form of "I've got the one on the left!" Even more fun when the guys are particularly unattractive or bizarre looking, the game leaves us in a fit of giggles.

Keeping that in mind, this postcard she sent me last week seriously left me tickled. She wrote on the back, "I already have dibs on the one holding the cell phone, so you can have your pick of the others!" Dang it. She always wins! Thus, spread eagle dude will have to suffice. :)

Oh, and if you're wondering what the heck the postcard is a picture of, it's the filming of a Bollywood movie. Umm yeah...I had no idea either! Anyone else enjoy the occasional Bollywood flick? I've been addicted since I first saw one in 8th grade geography class. Not for the every day, but they are entertaining!

happenings: belated edition

2008-02-04T12:18:00.000-08:00

Don't let this belated happenings post fool you into thinking it is Friday...

working: too much! Just about every day last week, I worked early, stayed late, and on top of that had to come in for another hour and a half Saturday--cripes. All that, and the person who this project is for refuses to throw me a bone or heck, even say thank you.

drinking: cup after cup of Bigelow Green Tea with Pomegranate. I've never got past the grassy flavor that characterizes most green teas, but this one is extremely drinkable. K Swiss took notice of my frequent visits to the restroom and bluntly inquired about how much liquid I drink!

crocheting: I've graduated from the single crochet stitch we learned in class and am practicing the double crochet, thanks to Crocheting for Dummies. I have several Dummies books, and although the "for dummies" schtick seemingly decreases their credibility and makes the books seem more elementary, I have loved every one I've read and used. I can't tell you how many times I've referenced Sewing for Dummies.

embroidering: Valentines. I worked on this quite a bit over the weekend, but of course pictures will have to wait!

exercising: I'm feel I'm quickly approaching the point to where this pilates routine is becoming a habit!

watching: 30Rock. How had I not heard of this show? I caught up on Season 1 via dvd and am watching Season 2 over at nbc.com. Hilarious!

planning: for a good month! I've been thinking more and more of the idea of "living consciously," which leaves me feeling more thoughtful and anxious at the same time. I'll pull some thoughts on this together this week to see what you guys think.

At least I paid for my crochet hook.

2008-01-30T11:43:00.000-08:00

My first crochet class was last night, and looking at the image above I don't have to tell you that I stink at it. While everyone else rhythmically stitched their chains and proceeded to single crochet, my yarn was tangled in my clumsy hands as I tried to figure out a slip knot. It was that bad.

It didn't help that the fellow students were...how can I put this delicately...rough. I saw one of the girls discreetly swipe a crochet hook into her bag! There were several 30-something bartenders that all had their hair completely bleached out or dyed a saturated black. Tattoos littered their arms (and probably everywhere else), and they were kind of mean! Maybe I was asking for it considering I was wearing one of those silky, secretary style blouses in the land of ripped t-shirts and black leather, but it was a crochet class!

I'm going to make myself return to class next week, but I honestly am not looking forward to it!

Personalized Woven Labels

2008-01-29T09:56:00.000-08:00

I love these personalized labels from Charm Woven Labels, an early Valentine's present from Mom! She said she did a lot of looking around, and this company's offerings appeared to be the best. I've never had labels before, but these feel durable, look professional, and most of all they are pretty! I can't wait to sew these into some projects.

Part II, to be opened on February 14th!

New Rug and 100th Post

2008-01-28T06:58:00.000-08:00

I love my honey-colored wood floors, but considering they extend up the walls for oh, about four feet, I could go with seeing a little less--that's a lot of wood! [here's where you make a wood joke] I've been hunting for a rug for several months, often backing out of purchases because of my unwillingness to commit to a color scheme and my paltry budget.

Finally, last week during a late night, wine-induced online shop-athon, I found a screaming deal on a rug from West Elm. It's big enough, blue is safe and livable, and the price was right ( 8'x8' and $90, down from $350!).

Before:

After:

I didn't expose the photos right, so the colors in the rug don't appear as saturated as they truly are, but it is pretty, no? It is durable, as well. Three hours in, a full glass of Makers on ice was dropped and shattered right in the center of the rug (I won't name names, but he felt really bad). Cleanup left the rug looking new, however, so no friends were lost. Cheers to 80% wool and 20% cotton blend.

In other news, I finally hit 100 posts!

If your picture is on your blog, it can happen to you!

2008-01-25T13:15:00.000-08:00

I use my lunch break to catch up on my Google Reader and today finished the hour by reading a post by Angela over at her blog, Tomorrow is Another Day. As soon as I finished reading I went downstairs to the UPS Store to mail those potholders to my grandmother, when the girl in front of me in line looked strangely familiar...

I am no mystery writer, so obviously, you guessed it...it was Angela! We "met" during NaBloPoMo in the twenty-somethings group, and even though we found out we both work in downtown Seattle and both avoid the hills because we always fall, I didn't realize she works in the SAME BUILDING!

Angela is such a sweetheart, online and offline. So glad to have met her! Things like this make the whole blogging thing even more worthwhile, just when I was feeling down about it!

happenings

2008-01-25T12:29:00.000-08:00

dying to try: Banya 5. I've never been to a Russian-style spa and furthermore didn't even realize they existed! Last week I tried the accompanying vodka bar, Venik Lounge, and am subsequently hooked on the Russian experience. Now for someone to go with....(T, I'm looking at you!)

cooking: I'm embarrassed to say, but dinners this week have consisted of fried eggs and sugar-free strawberry jello. I hope you're impressed. This weekend I'm thinking of cooking one of the two ducks I've had in my freezer since Thanksgiving, so wish me luck! I'm not sure if I even like duck, much less know how to cook one, but with a grim weekend forecast I'll need something to keep me occupied while I'm hiding out indoors. Well, either that or I'm going to starve because I am out of eggs and jello (btw I don't even really like jello).

contemplating: Chopping my hair off and dying it dark brown, but I've received mixed reactions so am thinking twice about it. I would just love to cut my drying time in half!

exercising: I have been doing it. I almost don't believe it either, but I have worked out a whole three times this week so far! Current motivations are a snowboarding weekend next month that will be sure to kick my ass as well as a potential week in Hawaii. I am definitely fearing the bikini right now.

trying: Joe's Goals. I'm tying it in with the goal planning book I read, and so far it is working rather well. Kind of proud of how I am putting the pieces together, so maybe I'll post about it soon.

learning: Programming. That's the plan, anyway. Next month I begin a class in C#, but in the meantime a friend has suggested to play around with Python tutorials. Heaven help me.

crafting: still need to finish that shirt... crochet class starts next week... there are some cross-stitch and embroidery ideas I want to get started on...want to make a few little gifts for v-day...lots of lovely, little things.

Mass Transit Flattery and Shoe Compliments*

2008-01-24T08:53:00.000-08:00

I was sitting, waiting for the bus in the tunnel yesterday, when in no less than 90 seconds I had a strange man's jacket over my legs. Of course I protested (after all, I was wearing tights, wasn't cold, and umm...ew), but he insisted that he had "been thinking about it all day" and it was the "least he could do" in light of the sinking temperature.

Avoiding eye contact and thinking about all the potential germs on the fleece that adorned my legs, I thought over my outfit and decided I was surprised that such a demure ensemble would garner a man's attention. I had a client appointment in the morning, so I traded my typical jeans and blouse work attire for an army green sheath dress that although figure-hugging, was hidden with a sweetheart cut black cardigan, further covered with a bulky North Face jacket. Pair all of that coverage with opaque black tights, and I wasn't even showing a square inch of skin! Hot.

My self assessment was cut short because luckily the bus arrived within two minutes, saving him from his feeble attempts at making conversation with me. Comments ranged from "I like your shoes." to "That's a nice dress." He was very interesting, obviously.

Upon sitting down for the ride to the Eastside I feigned complete interest in my cell phone, which failed miserably as he continued to talk to me though I barely murmured "mmhmms" in response. Ok, maybe I am exaggerating. I found out he is a brick layer (he specified "big bricks" because "old men lay small bricks"), and I did manage to answer questions about what I do for fun. I replied "sewing, blogging, cooking." You know...all the things that completely turn off a man. I was wrong about one of those. The blogging spurred a brief spark of interest.

Brick Layer: "Oh! Is it a LiveJournal?!?!?!? Where you write all your secrets about crazy things you do when you go out?!?!?!?!" His eyes were opened wide with intent interest and enthusiasm.

Me: "No." I probably scowled, but I can't be sure.

He appeared sorely disappointed and didn't talk for several more minutes, that is until he saw a Denny's and went on and on about how he used to hang out there all the time. I didn't respond.

Predictably uninterested and unimpressed, I made my exit and went to class.

*I got several compliments on these shoes yesterday. Yay for cheap Nine West shoes from at least four seasons ago.

Identity Crisis

2008-01-23T12:52:00.000-08:00

I'm having an identity crisis. A blogger-identity crisis, to be specific.

I told myself when I began blogging again and started Life Tonic, that I would write about lifestyle. Though I didn't, and still don't, have much of a lifestyle to write about, I wanted to blog about cooking, photography, living in Seattle...pretty, sophisticated things. A blog where I could talk about what I have going on whilst sparing myself the embarrassment of divulging details about romances (past, current, and desired), vanity, wishful thinking, and pretty much all other thoughts I manage daily.

Other days, Internet, I want to tell you everything. The good, the bad, the really bad, and the no-one-cares-but-I'm-telling-you-anyways. I want to profess my love for Rock of Love and gush to you how elated I was when I heard news of the second season and other important things, like how Brett Michaels should really be with Heather from Season 1 and what is going on under that bandana??!?

I want to drink a ~~bottle~~ glass of wine with you and complain about all the things I can't stand about the men in my life and then have you forget so the next day I can tell you how wonderful he/they are and how I couldn't live another day without him/them. Repeat.

I want to reveal that I read Missed Connections on Craigslist way too much even though no one's ever written about me.

I want to post ridiculous pictures of myself and not care if someone disapproves.

I want to write without boundaries.

I'm thinking it's silly to keep my blog semi-focused because let's face it, no one really reads this anyway. On the other hand, how can a blog ever be useful to someone if they are reckless with topics? Are there people out there like me who like to read about someone's personal life as well as cooking and sewing, etc? Will people decide I'm not very sophisticated if I share all those random facts of life? Should I care?

Internet, sorry if I have disappointed and shared too much. Regularly scheduled programming will resume tomorrow.

Polariods

2008-01-22T12:12:00.000-08:00

I finally got around to scanning some Polaroids I took this past summer at Olympic Sculpture Park in downtown Seattle. I wasn't lying when I said I was productive this weekend!

Here are a few of my favorites...

Glowing in neon at night, this ampersand is part of the Love & Loss installation, probably my favorite at the park.

I love the juxtaposition of the uniform polka dots with the random pattern of the clouds. This is part of an overhang that follows part of a walking trail.

I adore these red chairs, and since I was at the park early on a weekday morning, I was able to snap a photo without people sitting in them!

The park's centerpiece.

Photos also posted on my flickr page.

TV Stand

2008-01-22T08:36:00.000-08:00

I feel like I had a productive, long weekend. Case in point? I finally got my cable box and DVD player off of the ground, which is quite the accomplishment when you consider it's been there FOR. A. YEAR.

I spent a good chunk of Saturday going from store to store, not happy with any of the huge media consoles and tables that were of crappy quality but still cost $200+. By the time it got to Saturday evening, I was thinking I'd just give up, but Sunday morning I realized that I had one last option--Cost Plus World Market. A-ha! And what do you know, I get there, find a simple, no-frills table, and it was on sale, no less!

Before:
My temporary solution put together when I first bought this TV a year ago. It's a storage basket with a flat tray on the top to keep the top from sinking. My modest DVD collection is kept in wire baskets, courtesy of a Method Products package from Target purchased about two years ago. Modem, router, DVD player, and cable box....on the floor. Fancy.

After:
Off of the floor! No basket! DVDs hidden in a drawer! This is called the "Chase Nightstand" from Cost Plus and only cost $80 on sale. I'm not smitten with the handle on the drawer, but that is easily changed. The wires in the back could use a little straightening, but other than that it is the perfect, simple table I was wishing for.

I think I have caught the decorating bug, because I also bought a huge rug this weekend online for my living room. Heck, at this rate, I might even hang some pictures this year! (Yes, a year in this apartment and not a single thing hanging on the walls.) To be continued!

Oven Mitt

2008-01-18T14:10:00.000-08:00

I promise I will soon blog about things other than potholders, but in the meantime here is one that I gave to my mom for Christmas, an oven mitt from Simple Sewing. I didn't know how to hand stitch the bias tape at the opening, so I tacked on the bias strip with plenty of needles and essentially gave her homework for a Christmas gift. Luckily, she was a sweetheart about it and accepted the project with a smile. She just finished it and sent me the lovely picture. Thanks, Mom! It looks great!

Zippity do da...

2008-01-16T08:53:00.000-08:00

It's a zipper ya'll, and I did it all by myself! With some help from this tutorial, I mostly figured out how to make a zipper pouch. The good: it opens and closes and everything! The not so good: the top corners are rounded, lending it that homemade-but-not-in-a-good-way look. To give me a little bit of credit, I couldn't tell from the tutorial the proper way to sew over the zipper. The instructions said to "sew along the three sides" of both the lining and the outer fabric separately and never mentioned anything specific about what to do with that pesky zipper in the final finishing steps.

Many, many more zippers to come.

Potholders

2008-01-14T12:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I sewed up a couple potholders from Simple Sewing to send to my grandmother. For Christmas I made my mom the ones from Stitches (need to gets pics of those), but they were quilted, involved lots of bias tape for binding and plain just took me a long time. The good news? I found out I never have to worry about learning quilting. Not interested. At all.

These potholders, on the other hand, were a breeze, so much so that I think I need to make her two more because I felt it was just too easy. In retrospect I wish I had not done any embroidery because my vision for it didn't exactly pan out, but I guess it's ok. Also, I didn't have any ribbon for the loops so I cut up a new, unused shoelace. Resourceful! Another trip to the fabric store avoided.

On another note, I am disappointed with the Insul-Brite, the insulated batting I sought out over a month ago especially for projects like these. It has a layer of aluminum (or something), which ruined my "self-repairing" cutting mat, which is not repairing those lines at all! Needless to say, I didn't use the Insul-Brite this go-round (it's too slippery to sew with anyway) and instead used two layers of the standard cotton batting. My mom said she hasn't burned herself yet, but consider this the warning!

Best Leftovers Ever, Maybe?

2008-01-13T14:31:00.000-08:00

I went out for dinner Friday night and had prime rib for the first time. Holy moly was it good, if not in dinosaur proportions. No complaining from me, though, because these leftovers are, dare I say it, better than when I had it at the restaurant?

I seared the edges to slightly heat the steak through and served it atop a bed of tender baby greens that had been liberally tossed with a homemade sherry vinaigrette and a generous handful of crumbled blue cheese. YUM.

I originally bought sherry vinegar to make ratatouille, so I was glad to finally get around to making something else with it. Move over favorite Caesar dressing, because this one is quickly climbing the ranks.

Sherry Vinaigrette
Note: As with most dressings (well, and with anything), this one was made with what I happened to have on hand. I imagine a lot of people would add fresh herbs, garlic, and whatever proportions of vinegar:oil. I tend to like a 1:2.

About 1/4 c sherry vinegar
Lots of black pepper, or to taste
salt, to taste
1 packet Splenda or equivalent
About 1 T dijon mustard
About 1/2 c olive oil

As always, first whisk together all ingredients except oil, then slowly stream in oil while continuing to whisk until you reach desired consistency.

To my sister

2008-01-12T15:55:00.001-08:00

Good luck in the Houston Marathon tomorrow!!! Love you!

happenings

2008-01-11T11:18:00.000-08:00

studying: technical writing. I started working on my certificate this week, and I'm so excited to be back in a classroom again. Current reading list: Reporting Technical Information and The Chicago Manual of Style.

signing up for: crochet class. I want to crochet a blanket!

crafting: loving ideas from The Left Bank Look found via decor8. I cannot wait to try the Polaroid transfers!

sewing: a shirt, view b from simplicity 3751, which I have made before in the tank version. This time I lengthened the shirt by 4 inches and am adding in the sleeves. Hope to finish this over the weekend.

also sewing: some patchwork potholders for my grandmother. I'm incorporating some embroidery work of my own design, just for fun and added interest. These are so much fun to make!

cooking: seekh kabab, my favorite Pakistani dish. I was introduced to seekh kabab back in college from one of my good friends and was lucky enough to have him teach me how to make it. Though it's not the most photogenic meal, you know I can't resist photographing and writing about food and cooking. Look for it next week!

new beauty find: Nivea eye makeup remover. Darlin' T and I were just talking about how we couldn't find a drugstore eye makeup remover we were happy with. Well, I spoke too soon, because this one is great!

photographing: I have started a monthly "photo challenge" with someone, and this month's goal is to capture movement. I've been busy all week but hope to get started on this over the weekend (if it will stop raining!).

watching: Starting this Sunday, Jane Austen movies will begin to show on PBS. I've seen the BBC version of Pride & Prejudice maybe 8 times, but I still can't wait to see it again!

listening: Challengers, by The New Pornographers. Since T gave me this CD to copy a few weeks ago, I have listened to it oh, maybe 50 times. Obsessed.

Cleaning out the closet

2008-01-10T11:28:00.000-08:00

...and here is the proof! In the corner of my bedroom is a growing pile of clothes that I'll be donating to Goodwill. I usually just dump the things off without doing anything with that little receipt they give you, but this year I looked up how to value your donated goods and so far I'm up to the conservative amount of $284.

Sites that give you parameters about how to value your used clothing and housewares abound, but I used this one and this one.

I didn't really make a resolution to get organized, but if I did, I'd be well on my way! Now to tackle the piles of fabric and sewing notions taking over my living room...

Small change will make you happy.

2008-01-09T14:09:00.000-08:00

This post over at The Happiness Project today really resonated with me and talks about an idea I have been trying to adopt over the last several months. The blog's author, Gretchen, breaks the idea down into two parts (or happiness "traps"):

1) "The first trap is deciding to make a tiny change when a big change is needed."

2) "The second trap – and I think the more common trap – is believing that a small change won’t make a difference, that only radical change can make you happier."

In the past I have been a victim and slave to the notion of "radical change." In almost all areas of my life, I was an all-or-nothing person. Instead of working on a relationship, I would ditch it. If I was watching my figure, I was either watching it 24/7 and obsessing about it or eating pizza and drinking beer. If I was worried about money, I would pinch every last penny and if not, I would satisfy each and every fleeting want. End of story, I have never honestly considered small changes as a means to getting to a goal.

These past several months I can happily say that I have changed a lot of that. I have been budgeting better, I researched ways to increase my skills to prepare me for a career change, I have spent less time in bars and going out and instead staying home doing things that are important to me (i.e. sewing, cooking, etc), I have been making regular efforts to keep in touch with my family better, I have worked on growing friendships that are important to me and phasing out those that are not positive,I haven't blogged every day but I have kept up with it for over 6 months....lots of things!

I also like that Gretchen of THP points out that sometimes fixing that one little thing that bothers you will make a huge difference. Cleaning out my closet is still a work in progress but is making a huge difference in the amount of stress I'm under in getting out the door in the morning, receiving some new nice pans for my birthday back in November has made cooking fun instead of an hour of complaining about my crummy pan and tools, eating clean and mostly whole foods has helped me shed some weight but not feel obsessive or stressed out...again, lots of things!

Making all of these small changes has had a huge impact on my general outlook and well-being. Incorporating small changes into areas of my life that are important to me have helped me to feel better about myself and my life across several areas. Sure, if I was only focusing on my weight I would be thinner, but I can guarantee you I would be feeling deprived and unhappy. If I never bought anything for myself or spent money going out, I would likewise feel deprived and jealous of people who do. All in all, I have been becoming quite a happy girl...all thanks to small changes.

Eyelash Perm

2008-01-08T11:34:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one who didn't realize this exists?!?!? One afternoon over the holidays my sister, Kelly, and my mom and I went to the salon to get manicures together. While being pampered, we couldn't ignore the crowd of people circling around a girl sitting in a chair in another part of the room. Those confined to their chairs were straining the necks to see what the fuss was about, and then finally our nails dried and we got a look too--you guessed it, she was getting her eyelashes permed!

The treatment takes a little over an hour, so I didn't get to see the results, but Kelly and I promptly made an appointment to do the same later that week.

The eyelash perm, touted as a budget-friendly alternative to extensions (which are upwards of $100-$150 and have to be redone every 2 weeks), costs about $35-$40. The process is rather simple and is nothing to be nervous about. Once all of your makeup is thoroughly removed, the technician puts in rollers and brushes on perming solution as they would for an ordinary perm.

The rollers come in three sizes--small, medium, or large. My sister has long, thick lashes and was able to use the large rollers. Me? I squeezed by with the medium, though sadly I think the small ones would have worked as well. The rollers are a dense foam, slightly sticky and felt awkward but did not hurt at all. Your part of the deal is simply to keep your eyes shut for the next hour or the whole process will need to start over from the beginning. I imagine since I wear contacts and thus have no problems with my eyes being touched and overall messed with, I had no problem keeping them shut (except for the flinching when I got my eyebrow wax done at the same time!).

Then wait, wait wait...for about 75 minutes, part of that time with saran wrap over your eyes. They took Kelly and I out from the back room into the main room with all of the massage chairs. I could feel the gawking stares but I pretended like it was completely normal and just enjoyed the massage. Once time was up, one more solution was applied to our lashes and then a quick rinse over the sink and ta-da! Lashes are permanently curled for the next 3-4 weeks.

No one noticed that my lashes were any different, and though our dad feigned a "They look good!" I imagine he only said as much because he knew we were having them done (aww). Personally, I do think that it opened up my eyes, though nothing more drastic than if I had curled them the old fashioned way. I want to say that an eyelash perm is the best kept beauty secret and you should run out to your salon and get one done today, but I have to say you might be the only one who notices!

A special thank you to Kelly for allowing me to post her picture!

Asian Steak (or Chicken) Salad with Cucumber and Napa Cabbage

2008-01-07T07:04:00.001-08:00

Despite cold winds and dreary skies, there's nothing like the end of the holidays to get me craving foods that are healthy and fresh. Anticipating such, the January issue of Everyday Food included a recipe for Asian Steak Salad with Cucumber and Napa Cabbage (p. 97). Chicken breast was a no-brainer substitute for the steak, and the only other change I made, anyone could guess--a lot more heat.

I like this recipe, and many others like it from Everyday Food, because of the short ingredients list, quick cooking times, and easy adaptability (I say this every time, but it still holds true!). Though I liked the bright acidity of the dressing, next time I would like to add lots of chopped cilantro, a few freshly sliced jalapeños and additional toasted sesame oil. Even better! As a final note, I should add that this is a great meal to take to work for lunch. I can always appreciate a meal that travels well.

From Everyday Food, January 2008, p. 97

1/4 c. fresh lime juice
1/4 c. rice wine vinegar
2 T vegetable oil
1 T toasted sesame oil
red pepper flakes (I used over a teaspoon)
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 pound flank steak (or chicken)
1/4 c. soy sauce
1/2 pound napa cabbage, thinly sliced crosswise
English cucumber, thinly sliced
Unsalted roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped, for garnish

Whisk together ingredients lime juice through garlic to make the marinade. Place chicken or steak in ziploc bag and pour in half of marinade mixture and the soy sauce. Reserve remaining marinade for dressing. Marinate in the fridge for one hour up to overnight.

Once marinated, cook chicken over medium heat on the stovetop. Meanwhile, slice cabbage and cucumber and toss together with peanuts and reserved marinade. Top salad with cooked chicken. I drizzled additional toasted sesame oil over the top as well.

...and I'm back!

2008-01-06T12:16:00.000-08:00

Wow, has it felt odd to be away from a computer for so long. I have really missed keeping up with everyone, not to mention the outlet to share my own two cents. The bad news about my Christmas is that Cassie didn't make it--she died the morning of the day I flew to Houston. The good news is that we all got to spend quality time together.

On a more positive note, I am really excited about this year. I have been making a lot of changes and decisions these last few months, and I feel like everything is starting to come together. I can't wait to share all the new happenings I have going on. I will begin blogging regularly again tomorrow!

I miss all of you!

Quiet and Anticipation

2007-12-20T13:53:00.000-08:00

It's been really quiet over here at Life Tonic, with the only noises of my days being the hum of my laptop at work or my sewing machine at home. Busy, busy, busy. Go, go, go. But of course, what's really on my mind is my family. I cannot wait to get home! Midnight tomorrow I will be touching down in Texas, and after an hour's ride home from the airport, this is who will be waiting for me:
That's Aiden, a black pomeranian I got when I was in college but had to leave behind with my parents. He has the kind of personality and smile (pomeranians smile!) that can't help but cheer you up, and I will be needing it since Cassie is not doing any better. Aiden is also my date for new years, and I expect the kiss to be grand! ;)

Safe travels, everyone!

Post-Christmas Plans

2007-12-19T09:49:00.000-08:00

Far from shopping malls and long customer service lines, the day after Christmas I will be driving to Rockport, Texas, where my grandparents (Hi, Pawpaw and Tutu!) have gone all out this year and are hosting a ~~four day party~~ family reunion. Anyone that knows them can tell you that they are extremely planful and organized, so it was no surprise that I received the details for the winter festivities, oh in...September or October. The care they put into planning is one of the million reasons we love them, and that the notes are typed on a typewriter make it especially endearing.

Wednesday-26th
Morning: Arrival & Open period
Afternoon: Open Period. Good time for family photo on the beach.
Evening: Open Period

Thursday-27th
Morning: Open Period
Afternoon & Evening: Texas Day at the House
*Jeanne's Texas Margaritas-whenever
*Texas Barbeque (outside if weather is OK)...wet & dry short ribs, brisket, chicken wings, potato salad, beans and homemade ice cream
*Texas Hold'em Poker Tournament...only $1.00 to participate but the one winner wins all the money and prize. (Detailed instructions and team information were sent as well)

Friday-28th
Morning: Open Period.
Late Afternoon: A family meals at POP's restaurant in Lamar. Best items are hamburgers, onion rings, fries, cold beer or whatever. Family pool tables available. Dutch treat.
Evening: Chinese Auction....don't forget your gift. Bring trash, a family antique, or even a "nice" gift. This year no rules but please no bikinis.

Saturday-29th
Morning: Breakfast burrito at Jalisco's
Rest of Day: Open...check out time is 12:00.

Texas Day? How adorable (and fun) does that sound?!?!?! And in the words of my brother, with whom I share the same sentiment:

Upon receiving the above itinerary, "I think it's cool that I know I'm eating brisket on December 27th."

I could not agree more.

You know it's going to be a good day when...

2007-12-18T10:13:00.001-08:00

you raise your head up after washing your face in the morning and realize that your face is completely covered in blood. Darn it! It's nosebleed season again. I'd like to think that frequent nosebleeds are common, especially in this season that confines us to the indoors in the blast of dry heat, but I don't know anyone else that has this unfortunate problem.

As I was laying down, waiting for the blood to stop flowing and making me increasingly late for work, I thought about some anti-nosebleed possibilities.

-Vaseline. I've heard of people coating the inside of their nose with Vaseline to keep the skin from...what does it do? Dry out? I don't know about this, though. I have a pretty strong aversion to putting anything in nose, though I guess it could be a last resort.

-Vitamins? I'm not sure that will help. A quick Google search tells me "The most common causes are dryness (often caused by indoor heat in the winter) and nose picking." First of all, I'm not really a nose picker. Remember, I don't like putting anything in my nose. I found some other potential causes as well: "Other, less common, causes include injuries, colds, allergies or cocaine use." Also negative. If I snorted coke, I probably wouldn't be wondering why I have nosebleeds and most surely I wouldn't get as much sleep as I've been getting (asleep at 9pm last night, folks!).

-Humidifier? I've seen these everywhere for as long as I can remember, yet I still don't know what they really do. Seems like they are an item for bedrooms, but I swear I spend more time in the office than I ever do sleeping (even though I sleep quite a bit, I work even more!).

I'm not any better off, am I? Here's to several more weeks of the daily blood bath!

Weekend plans

2007-12-14T09:30:00.001-08:00

I have not done nearly enough to prepare for my trip home...a myriad of sewing projects are yet to be finished, clothes yet to be washed and packed, my apartment is a complete wreck, etc. I need to get my butt in gear!

This weekend will be spent either at my sewing machine or battling the crowds in downtown Seattle (pictured left) for some last minute gifts. I hate the crowds, but I love, love love the white twinkle lights everywhere. So festive and pretty!

I need music.

2007-12-13T14:31:00.000-08:00

With long days of travel on the horizon, I am looking to beef up my ipod. I'm really not all that picky about music, so all genres are welcome. It's not that I don't care, I have just never been a person that seeks out a new sound or is in the know of upcoming artists. If you can't tell already, I'm a lot more into writing, cooking, and sewing than I've ever been about music, so I need your help! Anyone! If I get at least two people to suggest something, I will be ecstatic, but of course the more I get the less I need to be at the mercy of whatever in-flight movie Continental is playing.

Oh, and podcasts are more than welcome as well!

So far, Death Cab for Cutie has been recommended. Albums: Transatlanticism, Photo Album, and Plans. And "Passenger Seat" from Transatlanticism, I'm told, is a tear-jerker. I do like a good emotional song every once in a while, so I can't wait to hear it. A longtime favorite emotional song has been "The Blower's Daughter" by Damien Rice. I never get tired of that song.

Looking forward to suggestions! I know you have some!!

happenings: sick edition

2007-12-12T12:54:00.001-08:00

I feel dreadful. Despite my obnoxious hand washing and sick-people-eschewing, I have caught it. All plans for merrymaking this week are thus postponed. Until then I am keeping busy with the following:

sewing: several Christmas gifts. As much as I want to show you pictures (they're adorable!), even more so, I don't want to spoil anyone's surprise. I'll be sure to upload pictures post-holiday.

cooking: nada. All cooking has been sidelined until I feel better. I guess not having an appetite is figure-friendly, though I am drinking my weight in hot tea.

drinking: airborne, even though I'm skeptical of its effectiveness. In season's past I've always had to choke it down, but the new pink grapefruit flavor is surprisingly enjoyable!

drinking, part 2: basil haydens. I'm quite sure drinking whiskey on the rocks is not advised when one's loaded with cold medicine and suffering from little sleep, but eh...

putting on hold: netflix. After not using my subscription for at least a month, I finally put my account on hold. Why can't I find any movies to interest me? I'm not hard to please, but perhaps I am just feeling uninspired by film right now.

reading: Good Calories, Bad Calories (still), Your Best Year Yet, and Reporting Technical Information.

disenchanted: with Food Network's "Holi-Dazzle." If I see Paula Deen and the Dinner Impossible chef kiss one more time, I might throw up.

learning: how to curl my hair. A potential chop of my hair at the salon yesterday morphed into a trim with a hair lesson. Of course the stylist made it look easy, but how does one really create curls in the back of their head? I'll let you know how it goes. I'm dreadfully inept at styling hair. Must add curling iron and clips to my shopping list.

texas countdown: nine days. The dog I grew up with, Cassie, seems to have had a stroke and is not improving. I really hope she can make it at least through Christmas.

We don't dress up our dogs on a regular basis, but the hoodie from my old Pound Puppy fit her just right! Pound Puppies...remember those?

Roasted Ratatouille with Pancetta Stuffed with Goat Cheese

2007-12-10T13:29:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned last week, I am "cooking the book," Everyday Dining with Wine. One thing I am finding I like about this book is that it emphasizes wine-friendly combinations of flavors more than it teaches novel cooking methods, so the ideas are easily adapted and don't require you to closely follow a recipe. An example of this, probably my favorite to date, is roasted ratatouille. Since the kid's movie this summer, ratatouille has been at the forefront of food blogs everywhere, though I never jumped on the bandwagon until now.

This roasted version appeals to me simply because roasting is my favorite method of cooking any and all vegetables. Brocollini? Yup. Cauliflower. Done it. Asparagus? Always. Brussels sprouts? My favorite. You get the idea... What's not to love about a high oven temperature's way of pulling out deep, nutty flavors and caramelizing vegetables, leaving a crunchy brown crust? Exactly.

The addition of high quality sherry vinegar, crispy pancetta and tangy goat cheese make this particular ratatouille a home run.

Roasted Ratatouille with Pancetta Stuffed with Goat Cheese
Any mix of the following: yellow squash, zucchini, eggplant, all diced the same size (I used one eggplant, 1 yellow squash, and 2 small zucchini)
1 shallot, diced
2-3 T sherry vinegar
extra virgin olive oil, enough to coat vegetables
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
soft goat cheese
pancetta
fresh parsley

Toss the diced vegetables and shallot with enough olive oil to coat and several tablespoons of sherry vinegar. Season liberally with salt and pepper, and roast in a roasting pan for about 40 minutes (I think I used a temperature of 450, but I'm not sure). To ensure even browning, stir vegetables every 10 minutes.

With the goat cheese, form small patties the size of the pancetta. Sandwich the goat cheese between two slices of pancetta and cook in a skillet on medium-high, about 2-3 minutes per side or until the pancetta is crisp.

Top the ratatouille with the goat cheese stuffed pancetta and fresh chopped parsley and serve. The vegetables would be equally good if you sprinkled them with crisped pancetta and crumbled goat cheese, but I thought the patties made for a more unique presentation.

Leftovers? Use them for an omelet!

Scrambled Eggs with Spanish Chorizo and Manchego Frico

2007-12-07T11:38:00.000-08:00

Though I haven't joined one, I am thrilled with the trend emerging from online food communities: Cook the Book Clubs. A good example is at Loulies, offered here. The premise is simple: for one month, cook everything you can out of a single cookbook and optionally share your experiences with others doing the same.

I love cookbooks, and even though I'm not yet a full-fledged collector, I already have more than I regularly use. How does this happen? I get a new cookbook, get my panties in a twist about making everything in it, then for the next year or more it gathers dust on my shelf and a good splattering of grease (note to self: get books away from the stove!).

Well, the "cook the book" idea has been nagging at me for months, so this last week I took several minutes to degrease and dust a cookbook my dad gave to me last year for Christmas (he even got it signed by the author, aww), Everyday Dining with Wine. Armed with determination and a grocery list to drain my newly plumped checking account, I set out to cook several meals from it in December. Oh boy, have I begun to do just that.

The meals are decidedly simple but emphasize quality ingredients and classic methods. I have found the "everyday" aspect is in regards to the modestly priced wine recommendations and not necessarily the ingredients. Expensive vinegars and oils abound, though I happily oblige since reading David Lebovitz' blog post, "10 Easy Ways to Improve Your Cooking," specifically numbers two and four, "upgrade your oil" and "rethink your vinegar." Come to think of it, I have started cooking with a lot of shallot as well, so that knocks out number three without even trying!

The scrambled eggs with Spanish chorizo and manchego frico called out to me in the beginning because I never realized there were different kinds of chorizo. I never even ate chorizo until I lived in Austin in a Mexican community and shopped at grocery stores that offered cases of it. Jimmy Dean even sells chorizo, though in places like Seattle you would never know it (but really, we want the real thing anyway. Sorry, Jimmy). I have since learned that I was eating Mexican chorizo, which is an uncooked variety of chorizo, one which the Spanish would call chorizo fresco. This time around, my more equipped self sought out Spanish chorizo, which is cured. I couldn't find Spanish chorizo, or Manchego cheese for that matter, at Safeway but had luck with both at the gourmet market.

The combination of flavors in these scrambled eggs makes it so much more than "scrambled eggs." It becomes a perfect breakfast-for-supper dish, especially on those nights that you are short on time or just feel lazy. The frico is really just a fancy word for cheese crisp. Manchego is a sheep's milk cheese made in the La Mancha region of Spain, and broken over fluffy eggs laced with heat and spice from the sausage, offers a unique peppery bite. My food substitution book suggests Monterey Jack as a replacement, though I don't think it would suffice in this case.

Scrambled Eggs with Spanish Chorizo and Manchego Frico
2 eggs
1 ounce Manchego*, grated
1.5 ounces Spanish chorizo, diced
3 T red onion**, chopped
splash half and half
2 T fresh parsley, chopped
pepper and sea salt

To make the frico, heat grated Manchego in a small nonstick skillet until it melts into a lacy circle and begins to brown on one side. Remove from heat for about 30 seconds to let crisp, then flip and crisp on other side. Drain on paper towel.

Cook chorizo on medium heat until fat begins to render, then add chopped onion and cook until softened. Beat the eggs with splash of half and half and salt and pepper, and pour over softened onion and sausage. Scramble. Garnish cooked eggs with fresh chopped parsley and frico.

*The Manchego was difficult to grate. Next time I will freeze for 5-10 minutes just prior.
**A sweet yellow onion would have been ideal, had I had it on hand.

Pork Chops in Wine and Shallot Sauce

2007-12-06T13:55:00.000-08:00

The guys in my office always get a scrunched up, incredulous look on their face when they ask me to go out for lunch and for the zillionth time I reply, "No thanks. I brought mine." I mean, really... sticky questionable meat from the dirty teriyaki place, or home-cooked pork chops drenched in a savory wine sauce with shallots? Yep. Me too.

This sauce is about as simple as it gets yet big on flavor. Cook the pork chops in some extra virgin olive oil, browning each side to get a nice golden brown crust. Once cooked through, remove the chops from the pan and add one chopped shallot, cooking for about one minute to let it soften before pouring in about a cup of white wine to deglaze the pan. Cook the wine down on medium heat until slightly thickened and darker in color, yielding about 1/3 of a cup. Remove the pan from heat and swirl in a generous pat of butter, about a tablespoon. Finish the sauce by adding salt and pepper to taste and a handful of fresh chopped parsley.

You'll never want to go out for lunch again, or at least not have a good excuse, because meals like this are just as easy and almost as fast as throwing together a PB&J. Another way to make brown bagging it less of a chore is to cook a couple servings at once to leave in the fridge at work. One less thing to remember in the morning, and more room in my purse for books to read on my commute. Now if only I could get the guys at work on board, or at least to stop giving me those weird faces!

Picture in sidebar

2007-12-05T12:53:00.000-08:00

I'm really not a very mysterious person. Ask me about anything, and I'll tell you. Heck, even if you don't ask, I'll probably tell you anyway (one of my favorite things about blogging). I'm not very big into memes, so I'm not going to disappoint anyone by writing a bunch of random and probably useless factoids about myself, but I do want to point you to the left to my bare sidebar to see that I posted a little picture of yours truly.

I bought a pocket camera with some birthday money (remember the little cozy I made for it?), so you will be seeing a lot more of me a lot more often. Who knows, I might go crazy some day and let someone take my picture so I can get a normal perspective! (Yes, the one on the left I took of myself on my birthday.)

Steak in Scotch Sauce

2007-12-04T16:06:00.000-08:00

Cooking as a single person means two things:

You eat meals by your lonesome.
You end up eating the same thing for days because of this little thing that happens when you're only feeding one person--LEFTOVERS.

And for people like me who try to save money on staples so I can afford Manchego cheese, Spanish chorizo and Prosciutto di Parma (not to eat together, mind you), it means I buy in bulk, leaving my fridge at any one time full of 8 pork chops or 10 steaks. That's a lot of meat!

Yes, the obvious solution is to buy in bulk and freeze, but do people who suggest that really have room in their freezer? I certainly don't (mostly because there are two whole ducks in there that I don't know what to do with, but shhh. I'm legitimately complaining here!).

On to the steak in scotch sauce...

*draw parallel here* (I promise I'm not this literal all the time)

I recently bought steaks in bulk, and up to this point I have been coating them with Montreal Steak Seasoning and then searing them in butter and olive oil. It's probably one of my favorite foods, but I've hit the point of diminishing return and needed to diversify.

Meet my new pan. She's purdy. I've never had a skillet perfect for making pan sauces, so I was anxious to see what she could do. In an inhospitable turn of events last night, I was without wine at home so after searing and cooking my steak, I deglazed the pan with some Chevis, whisked in some splashes of cream, then swirled in some cold cubes of butter to finish (I didn't say it was low-fat!). Scotch sauce! The verdict? I was pleasantly surprised. It was incredibly rich, but my steak tasted much more out of a fancy restaurant than a value pack from Safeway. I wouldn't dare serve it to someone who doesn't care for scotch as the flavor was powerful, but I am a scotch drinking kind of girl, so it pleased my palate in just the right ways.

Camera Cozy

2007-12-03T19:55:00.001-08:00

Not wanting to bulk up my pocket camera with a traditional case, I decided to follow the ipod-cozy trend and sew one up for my Canon PowerShot SD750. I followed Julie Ree's ipod cozy design--the elastic closure is pure genius.

There's really not much to making one of these, though I found it difficult to stitch the opening neatly since the opening is rather small and the batting makes it predictably bulky (if you try this, you will see what I mean!).

If your camera is new, make this project even easier by using the sleeve your camera comes in as a template and just add the seam allowances as indicated (1/4" seams around all 3 sides and 1/2" at opening).

birthday!

2007-11-30T21:49:00.001-08:00

24!!!!!!!!

Busy Christmas shopping

2007-11-29T20:03:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lack of content today (but I have to post!), but I am busy shopping this evening! I can't wait to start writing when I actually have something to write about and the time to do it!

happenings: wrapping up the month!

2007-11-28T14:48:00.000-08:00

Though I have been watching entirely too much television, I have had some other things going on:

Reading: Good Calories, Bad Calories by Gary Taubes. This book has been at the forefront of too many news stories and online articles to ignore any longer. It's science-heavy, but it's a good follow-up to the history and fact-heavy book, United States of Arugula, I recently finished.

Ecstatic about: My sister, Kelly, gave me a generous gift certificate to ReproDepot.com for my birthday. I cannot wait to splurge on fabric!

Loving: Amazon Prime. I finally squandered the $79 to qualify for 2-day shipping for a year. I am such an Amazon junkie. If a hacker got a hold of my Amazon and Google info, they would essentially know everything about me. *shudder*

Leaf-turning: I am starting a certificate program in January as the initial step towards a ~~new~~ career path. More on this later, but I am very excited!

Counting down: 23 days until I go home to Texas! This year is unusual as I get a full 11.5 days in my home state. My favorite thing about being at home are the long mornings where we sit in the formal living room (no tv) in our pajamas and sip several cups of coffee and talk, each with a little 3-pound dog in our lap. What's even better is that either my mom or my dad bring us cup after cup (doctored up to our specifications), so we don't even have to get off the couch! So spoiled, but I adore it. On top of all this? Several days of this year's trip will be in Rockport, TX, where my grandparents live and have graciously arranged to have the whole gang there for several days of fun. Really can't wait.

Trying out: Coconut oil. If you haven't heard all the hype about this so-called "miracle food," please come out of the rock you've been hiding under. :) I'm currently using Organic Virgin Coconut Oil by Spectrum brand, which I bought at a local gourmet/upscale market. I was skeptical of the lofty lists of benefits of coconut oil, but I cannot ignore that my skin has improved drastically, and it's only been a week. Take that, you moisture-sucking heaters!

Celebrating: I turn 24 this Friday. Turning 24 isn't particularly any more exciting than turning 23 was, but 23 was such an awful year for me. The new number makes me feel like I'm getting a "new me" this Friday. Now that's something to look forward to.

Do one thing

2007-11-27T20:22:00.000-08:00

I've been trying to follow the advice recently, "do one thing." I used to think it was desirable to be a killer multi-tasker, though now I am finding quite the opposite is true. "Do one thing" can be applied in a couple of ways, whether it's to do one task at a time, complete one specific task in a certain day or focus on one specific goal at a time.

At work I have found it's made me more productive since I'm not trying to juggle several things at once, and personally, focusing on one goal (my health) has enabled me to make considerable improvements and changes without feeling overwhelmed by too many things to do.

The bad? This blog has obviously been lacking in content, and I haven't been getting through sewing projects as quickly either. As I'm focusing one one, some other priorities have been put on the back burner.

The good? Once I finish my "one thing," I know I can move on to the next "thing" and accomplish it 100%.

Montreal Steak Seasoning

2007-11-26T13:41:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm stretching for content today, but why shouldn't everyone know how great McCormick's Montreal Steak Seasoning is? It's a delicious, coarsely ground blend of salt, pepper, and spices (I'd be more specific but not at my spice cabinet right now!). The name is somewhat deceiving in that it goes with a lot more than just steak. I enjoy it on pork, chicken, and veggies (roasted brussels sprouts!) equally as well.

One word of caution: Notice I did say that it is salty. The first time I used this I ruined my steak because I liberally coated the piece of meat like I was using Mrs. Dash, which is salt-free. Learned my lesson!

In any event, this blend is perfect for people like me with a sparse spice cabinet. Try it!

Favorite Caesar Salad

2007-11-25T16:21:00.001-08:00

I've never been a huge fan of Caesar salad until I started making my own dressing; now, I can't make this salad enough. It's particularly great for me because it requires minimal ingredients, so it keeps me from having a fridge full of veggies that are only going to go rotten before I can eat all of them.

Favorite Caesar Salad Dressing
Whisk together the following:
2 egg yolks
anchovy paste (I squeeze out paste to about an inch to inch and a half)
juice of one small lemon
zest of small lemon
3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
salt and pepper to taste

Then, slowly stream in extra virgin olive oil (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup) while whisking to emulsify.

Finally, whisk in 1/4-1/2 cup grated Parmesan.

You'll never buy bottled dressing again!

Worst Post Ever...

2007-11-24T22:54:00.000-08:00

I am barely making this post before midnight, really! Gosh, the things holidays do to the typical computer user...better tomorrow, I promise!

My Thanksgiving, in Pictures...

2007-11-23T20:09:00.001-08:00

My Thanksgiving was eerily quiet, save for a phone call from my dad. Not wanting to waste the day, I strolled around the Fisherman's Terminal in Ballard. It was eerily quiet there, too, but I was fortunate to visit on a day of rest, because otherwise these beautiful piles of fishing net and cages would have been in the ocean being tugged by a work boat instead of sitting on the curb, basking in the sun.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-22T16:13:00.000-08:00

Taking a much needed break from the computer today. I will see you all tomorrow!

At the revolving doors...

2007-11-21T13:22:00.000-08:00

Man: Remember that chest hair I had that grew really, really long?
Woman: Yes.
Man: Is it like that?!?!
Woman: No, it's...

I can't imagine what they were talking about, and I don't think I want to know!

AmazonFresh

2007-11-20T15:19:00.000-08:00

As this week has been all abuzz with talk of food, cooking, and everything Thanksgiving, it makes me happy about two things:
1) I am not cooking a big meal this year
2) Avoiding grocery stores' holiday madness using AmazonFresh

The first is obvious. I'm happy to be off the hook from cooking for people that won't appreciate it anyway to instead cook a special meal for myself. Lobster, maybe?

As for AmazonFresh, I have been happily using the grocery delivery service for a couple months now, and it's completely revolutionized the way I shop.

What is AmazonFresh?
AmazonFresh is an online grocery store founded by Amazon. As such, shopping is just as easy as it is on Amazon.com, and it works with your regular Amazon account. The concept is not a new one of course (e.g., safeway.com, the failed Webvan, Peapod, among others), but if anyone can make grocery delivery a sustainable reality, it will be Amazon, arguably one of the world's greatest retailers.

How is it shopping for groceries online? Seems like a pain.
Not at all! Above is a screenshot of the AmazonFresh homepage once logged in (click image for larger view). You'll see you have the option to shop by "aisle," or I find the fastest way to find items is by the search field near the top. In the screenshot below, you'll see that I searched for the term "eggs." After searching for an item, the next page gives you the choice to browse by the following options: (1)Aisles (similar to "department") , (2) Brands, (3) "Show only" (narrows results by only showing options that are "fat free," "gluten free," "vegetarian," etc.), (4) search for a term within results or (5), browse all results (most are pictured). Beyond that (yes, there's more!), you can sort the items by price, relevance, and if it is a new arrival.

Given the extensive options for finding an item and its easy to navigate interface, finding any item is extremely quick and easy to do.

How is it delivered?
Items are delivered as soon as the next day, or anytime you choose later than that. For orders over $25, you qualify for free "pre-dawn" delivery.

Pre-dawn Delivery
As the name indicates, these groceries are delivered extremely early (before 6am) and don't require you to answer the door. Items are packaged in crates. Cold and frozen items are packed in blue crates, which contain dry ice. Pantry items are stored dry in yellow cases. The deliveryman will leave these at your front door, and you can ask them to come back and pick them up the next day, or you can keep them until your next AmazonFresh delivery.

If your order exceeds $50, you are eligible for free daytime delivery.

Daytime Delivery
Daytime delivery hours are from 7:00am to 10:00pm. What I love about this delivery option is the delivery window--you select from a one hour time slot, saving you from waiting around all afternoon (cable company, I'm looking at you). It does require you to sign for your groceries, and your items will come in paper bags (as opposed to the crates).

Finally, all orders are available for pickup at designated AmazonFresh pickup centers, though I don't have a car so I've never used this option.

Is AmazonFresh available in my area?
At this time, it appears it is still in beta and only available in the Seattle area. Boo!

Is that all?
Believe it or not, I have a lot more to write about AmazonFresh, so consider this part one. Sorry, non-Seattlites!

Juno!

2007-11-19T15:43:00.000-08:00

So excited I get to see a sneak preview of the movie Juno tonight!! Darlin' T got the RSVP, and because she's the best friend ever, is taking me with her!!! Can anyone tell I am excited yet? There are supposed to be surprise guests too. If I never blog again, you know it's because one of the surprise guests was either Michael Cera or Jason Bateman. Please be sure they recover my body from Pacific Place Theater in downtown Seattle. I.Will.Absolutely.Die. LOVE those guys. Any other Arrested Development fanatics out there? (T, you can put your hand down.) :)

*Update* Ok, ok....T just told me she thinks the invite just meant that the "special guests" there are going to be the writer and the director. Boo!

Straciatella (Italian Egg Drop Soup)

2007-11-18T13:38:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon recipes for Straciatella yesterday as I was trying to decide what I could make for lunch that only required one egg (all I had). This soup indeed doesn't really need a recipe, as at its bare minimum, it's really just some chicken stock/broth, an egg, some grated parmesan and a sprinkling of ordinary spices.

It was a simple, healthy lunch with a side of roasted asparagus, and although the soup tasted fine, I wasn't enthralled with how the egg cooked. Some recipes indicated that the egg would form into ribbons, such as in Chinese egg drop soup, yet others said the egg would "flake," which is what happened to mine. The taste was fine, though as you can tell from the photo, not nearly as appetizing as a soup should be.

I can only suspect that how the egg cooks has to do with the temperature of the broth or maybe the addition of semolina, as I noticed some versions included. In all the recipes, the egg is cooked by adding it slowly to the broth as you briskly stir it in a circular motion, so I know it can't be that.

Defeated attitude aside, it's a simple, quick soup that makes a meal out of one egg!

Straciatella
2-3 cups chicken stock/broth
1 egg
1/4 c grated parmesan
parsley, to taste (fresh would be best here)
salt, pepper, red chili flakes* to taste

Bring chicken stock to a boil over medium-high heat. In a bowl beat together egg with parmesan cheese and parsley. Reduce heat to low and slowly stream in egg mixture while stirring in a circular motion. Slowly keep stirring until egg is completely set. Season with salt and pepper and red chili flakes.

*I didn't see anyone else add these, but I think it's a must. The soup would have been so bland without it!

Simplicity 3751

2007-11-17T17:36:00.001-08:00

I finally completed "the shirt," view F from Simplicity 3751. Granted it took me practically all day today, but I learned a lot. Sewing another one of these or something similar will be a snap now that I've figured out the meaning of the instructions and how it pieces together.

I do regret not altering the pattern to make the top longer. Voluminous styles like this tend to stick out like a trapeze top on me because of my chest. On longer tops I can belt it to show that no, I'm not quite the size of a mini-van, but this shirt is just too short for me to do that. Darn.

Sleep shorts

2007-11-16T18:27:00.001-08:00

Made these simple sleep shorts last night using pattern 7997 from burdastyle.com, a free download. I'm tackling "real" projects this weekend (a skirt and/or dress), but this was a great project for a quick start to finish. As far as the pattern goes, I either made it too big or I just don't like the style of the legs. They're cute and short with slits on either side, but they're just so roomy! I was hoping to replace my favorite sleep shorts that have been washed so many times they're practically torn, so I'm thinking I should just take them apart and use it as a pattern.

Wow...this is so interesting for a Friday night, right?!?

Container Envy

2007-11-15T12:57:00.000-08:00

I've noticed a theme happening in a lot of images I bookmark: containers! Not perfectly matched canister sets or rows of minimalistic glass jars, but old, unmatched and gently used containers with some (new) lab glass thrown in to shake things up.

First there was the image of the lab glass used as a water pitcher and glass at Port2Port Press studio featured on the Blueprint blog, Bluelines.

Then, sfgirlbybay gives us a peek inside her bathroom to see her impressive collection of vintage jars that she uses to house cotton swabs and other bathroom toiletries. She uses lab glass too--look at the image from her medicine cabinet! Is it weird to be jealous of someone's bathroom storage? I love that piece of coral displayed on the shelf too.

And finally, containers in the kitchen from AT:SF. I love the tray of mismatched items, both old and new. I also learned what a salt pig is (common in European kitchens to house coarse grained salt so it doesn't clump). I'm not convinced I would need one (counter space is at a premium!), though I think the name is the cutest.

I can't find an image, but all of these remind me of a picture I saw a while back that used old tea tins (pretty, vintage-looking floral ones) to store bathroom necessities like cotton balls and makeup brushes. So pretty!

So all this talk, but no walk--my makeup right now is in a freezer-sized Ziploc. Oh the shame...and the perfect excuse to go shopping for some pretty little containers.

Expectation Hangovers

2007-11-14T16:12:00.001-08:00

"...an expectation hangover occurs when we hold a certain expectation but things do not turn out as we thought they should or we would have liked, and then they feel awful." (Quote via Water Cooler Wisdom. Thanks for sending, T!)

So effectively, an "expectation hangover" is all those shoulda-woulda-couldas that make us feel bad about things that didn't happen as though we hoped, and probably expected, they would. Albert Ellis in A Guide to Rational Living, a book about rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), calls these "expectation hangovers" irrational beliefs (IB). REBT discusses these awfulizing thoughts, which are just that--thoughts. We only feel bad because we think these things that happen to us (or didn't happen) are so awful and debilitating, when in fact that's usually not the case, thus making it an irrational belief.

Thinking about my own Irrational Beliefs (there are more than I wish to count), they rear their ugly heads predominantly in relationships and work. In fact, I'd go so far to say that my engagement last year failed because of an "expectation hangover." Once engaged, issues arose that we were not expecting. I felt immediately that because it wasn't "perfect," and everyone wasn't getting along swimmingly (like they should and must), that it was completely awful and terrible and had to be ended. I think he felt equally disillusioned and disappointed, so we parted ways after four years of being together and now hardly remain friends.

Who said that getting engaged has to be easy and go perfectly or it's not worth doing at all?

Irrational beliefs pop up in work-related matters for me as well. A good chunk of my work is admin, though I have convinced myself that I am "too talented" and unchallenged to be bothered with such mundane tasks. As a result, I often feel down on myself and think I am an unsuccessful loser because I have to do these "chores." It also makes me feel embarrassed and worth less than someone who doesn't have these kinds of tasks as part of their job.

Who said that I must never have to do mundane admin tasks at work, and if I do, I am worthless and an unsuccessful loser?

To combat IBs such as these, Ellis provides the Disputing Irrational Beliefs Exercise (DIBs). He suggests spending several minutes each day asking yourself the questions and carefully thinking through the appropriate answers.

1. What Irrational Belief do I want to dispute and surrender?
2. Is the Belief accurate?
3. Why is the Belief Inaccurate?
4. Does any evidence exist of the truth of my Belief?
5. What worst things could absolutely happen to me if I don't get what I think I must (or do without what I think I mustn't)?
6. What good things could I make happen if I don't get what I think I must (or do get what I think I mustn't)?

We all hold so many irrational beliefs and expectation hangovers...let's be rational. It's not the end of the world--yet.

On Time

2007-11-13T13:55:00.000-08:00

I've been shopping for a kitchen timer for what seems like a long time, at least for something as utilitarian and minor, but I wanted *just* the right one. The right one, pictured to the left, essentially fell into my lap thanks to a post on AT:NY this week.

I was hoping to get it in robin egg blue, but the downtown Seattle Anthro only had it in chrome/red. I adore the vintage, minimal look, the magnetic back and the price tag--$12.

While there, because no proper visit to Anthropologie is complete without a visit to the sales racks, I perused quickly and nabbed the "Sweetheart Cardi" I've been lusting after since I saw it in the fall catalog. The website only had it pictured in camel, though I bought it in black. It is just the right fit with the little details one comes to expect from Anthro. I will get so much use out of it!

A lunch hour well spent.

Images c/o Anthropologie

Busy

2007-11-12T15:33:00.000-08:00

So it's day 12 of NaBloPoMo, and I'm already resorting to posting my to do list...

I'm so sorry!! Having a hectic day.

Cheesy Baked Puffed Eggs

2007-11-11T10:41:00.000-08:00

There's something about lazy Sunday mornings that makes me want to whip up an egg breakfast. This week's recipe comes from the archives of Gourmet Magazine, September 2006. Gourmet calls for Cantal cheese (also known as Cantal de Salers and Fourme du Cantal), which is a semi-firm cow's milk cheese made in the Auvergne region of France.

I wasn't thinking ahead to make this recipe, so I didn't shop for Cantal; however, even if I had, I hardly ever splurge on nice cheese when I'm cooking for just little ol' me anyway. If you are looking to use Cantal but can't find it, The Food Substitution Bible offers the following stand-ins: Laguiole (sharper), Cheshire, Lancashire, or Cheddar(my note: a sharp, white Cheddar would probably be best). Seeing as I had not one of these on hand, I used some Tillamook Swiss I had leftover in the fridge (though next time I think I'd like something sharper, such as Jarlsberg). In addition to using a different cheese, I also modified the recipe to make one serving (just me!) instead of six and to fit a 12oz ramekin instead of the recipe's 8oz.

Cheesy Baked Puffed Eggs
Adapted from Gourmet's "Baked Eggs with Cantal Cheese"

2 eggs
salt, pinch
pepper, pinch
nutmeg, freshly grated, pinch
cream of tartar, pinch
1/2 c grated Swiss cheese
12 oz ramekin, buttered

Preheat oven to 350 degrees with rack placed in the middle position.

Separate the eggs, placing the egg whites in a mixing bowl and reserving one egg yolk in a bowl of cold water. To the egg whites, add the pinches of salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cream of tartar and with an electric mixer, beat until it forms stiff peaks. Gently fold in the Swiss cheese, reserving a tablespoon. Pour egg whites into buttered ramekin, smoothing out the top then creating a well in the center using a spoon.

Bake the egg whites for 5-6 minutes, then take out of oven and place the egg yolk(remove from water using your fingers) in the indentation you made and sprinkle top with reserved cheese. (Note: this step ensures that your egg yolk will not cook through. If you like less runny yolk, you can skip this step and fully assemble and bake for 13-16 minutes). Place back in oven and cook additional 8-10 minutes until whites are puffed and golden, and the egg yolk is still jiggly. Serve immediately.

Related content: Last Sunday's Herbed Baked Eggs

Frozen Margaritas

2007-11-10T16:36:00.000-08:00

I've had a ~~hormonal~~ stressful and frustrating day today, which naturally got me thinking about margaritas. What bad mood can't be improved with lots of tequila and lime?

My parents would perhaps be embarrassed, but I'm going to say that margaritas could be considered to be a staple in their house. My dad's been blending up frozen margaritas several nights a week for as long as I can remember, often making multiple pitchers in one night for our small family (I am not complaining!).

Our classic family favorite is a simple frozen margarita that uses frozen limeade. When shopping for limeade, try to get a premium (e.g. Minute Maid) brand if you can--they say it does make a difference. On the other hand, as with all margaritas, premium tequila is not at all necessary, so don't waste your money.

Once you have a limeade margarita, you will never want to use a bottled margarita mix again!

Frozen Margaritas

Pour into a blender:
1 8oz can frozen limeade (not frozen margarita mix)
8 oz tequila (can use the empty limeade can to measure)
4 oz triple sec (or a half limeade can)

Fill blender to top with ice and blend until smooth. Easy, right?!? My own addition to my parent's recipe? A floater of tequila (here's where it pays to use the premium stuff!).

So here's a virtual cheers to banishing bad moods and spending time with family and friends!

happenings: NaBloPoMo week one

2007-11-09T06:51:00.000-08:00

Have made it through the first week of NaBloPoMo--whew! It's been a great exercise for me and makes me wonder why I never posted more in the past. Even though you've been hearing a lot more from me (more thus far in November than any other month!!), I still have lots of little things going on:

cooking: I've been eating luxuriously and have had filet mignon THREE times this week--once at Daniel's Broiler and two times at home. I've discovered the best cuts, albeit expensive, at this butcher shop at the top of Queen Anne hill. Last night with the steak I tried this spinach and cheese puff recipe from Everyday Food. It was terrible! For all of the good ingredients that went in it, it tasted like plain spinach. Oh well, at least the steak is always good!

week's highlights: Front row and center balcony seats at the Paramount to see Jim Gaffigan. I laughed through the entire show as I'm simple--bacon jokes do it for me. Later in the week I went to see Feist, also at the Paramount. Love her voice--even better in person.

looking forward to: Bob Schneider, a legendary Austin favorite, is in Seattle this weekend!!! I cannot put enough exclamation points to tell you how excited I am to see him and hang out with a bunch of fellow Texans at Tractor Tavern in Ballard.

shopping for: A pocket camera. This blog and my flickr have been incredibly bare of photos because I have been lazy about taking my DSLR around with me. Hoping to get one tonight or tomorrow morning so I can get some pictures of Bob! I'm also shopping for a new pan. I've been to Crate and Barrel and Williams-Sonoma twice but just can't decide what style to go with. Maybe I should just forget about getting something nice and scour the aisles of Ross and TJMaxx for a deal. Hmph.

reading: Still reading The United States of Arugula and a few books on REBT (Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy). No, I don't have "issues," just enjoy learning about the mind and why we feel the way we do, as well as how it can be different if we want it to be. Might write about it sometime if it wouldn't bore everyone.

working on: Nothing! I have been sleeping so much this week and/or going out, so I need to get on the ball this weekend and work on something creative. I am ready to cut the pieces for my shirt, and I have some picture framing projects I need to finish.

"Are You a Two Olive Girl?"

2007-11-08T14:42:00.000-08:00

For pre-concert drinks last night, T and I tried out Capitol Club, a Meditterranean/Morrocan inspired bar and restaurant. The bar upstairs was crowded (in a good way) with lots of little tables and a room-long bench strewn with a rainbow of silk pillows. In the center of it all was a DJ and...an MC? Freestyler? What do the cool kids call these people (all of who are obviously way cooler than me)? No idea.

Regardless of what they're called, this guy was a trip. He was very serious but ~~talked~~ freestyled about things ranging from going to his girlfriend's for Thanksgiving to the plate of frites that were coming up the stairs. I desperately tried to avoid eye contact in fear he would pick something out about me, but it ended up happening anyway (I'm not sure what it is about my quickly drinking two martinis that frequently gets me noticed, but that's probably another story).

He called out to me on the microphone to ask me what I was drinking (martini, obvious) and was it dirty. I sheepishly replied yes and feared his next question would ask if I was dirty also, but he spared me and asked instead, "Are you a two olive girl?"

This stumped me. What does it mean if you say you are a two olive girl? What kind of impression would my answer announce about me to the audience (who thankfully, wasn't giving any of this much attention)? The possibilities raced through my head while I stared down into my two-olive martini, and I finally uttered a lame, "I'm not going to eat any of them."

So there you have it, I proclaimed to be a "Zero Olive Girl." Truthfully, I would be fine with that title (I think?), except I really do like olives. A lot. Whether they're in a martini or bloody mary, straight out of the jar (jalapeño stuffed, mmmm), baked cheddar olives, on pizza, in sandwiches, in salads...I'm channeling "the shrimp guy" from Forrest Gump here--You get the idea...I love olives. Perhaps Hundred Olive Girl would be more appropriate.

Now what does that say about me?!?!?

Quick note: I tried googling "two olive girl," "olive girl," "olive girl martini," etc and came up empty. One humorous result, though, was on a teen health site about these girls who were inquiring about the connection between having olive skin and chest hair, appropriately using the alias, "Olive Girls with Noticeable Chest Hair." Aww, to be young and so curious about our bodies again...really glad that's over!

Running Resource: Gmaps Pedometer

2007-11-07T14:53:00.000-08:00

Neighborhood running junkies and mile-tracking-aholics rejoice, because Gmaps Pedometer has got your fix. Click your route*, block by block, and the mileage is posted on the screen. The plan I am roughly following is based on mileage, so I have found the tool to be indispensable in keeping me accurately on schedule.

To begin you enter your starting location, zoom in, then hit the "start recording" button to start logging your route. Click once and drag to move the map and double-click to mark a stopping point, turn or "leg." Final results can be printed, saved, or exported.

Note: There are lots of other "Google Map Pedometers" out there, but personally I have found this interface to be the most friendly to use.

*The route above maps my walk home from work, albeit an infrequent occurrence in reality, but look--3.68 miles!

Issey Miyake Perfume

2007-11-06T12:06:00.000-08:00

I adore gifts for no reason, so receiving a towering bottle of Issey Miyake's perfume yesterday, "just because," made it smell all the more sweet. I haven't had new perfume in ages--past fragrances go back several years, including Todd Oldham, Curve, and Chanel Chance. Well, move on over, you empty lurking bottles cluttering up my pretty bathroom shelf, because Issey Miyake is here to stay.

Sephora describes the fragrance's note's as a "pure floral with musky and woody tones," and though I am not a floral kind of girl, it smells divine to me. It's bold and feminine without being overpowering and is overall a "clean" scent. It may be floral, but this is not your grandmother's perfume ( as in no one will question if you have a rotting bouquet of flowers stashed in your purse).

I am usually not one to dote publicly on personal products I love, though after the makeup post and this one, you might be thinking that next I'm going to start telling you my favorite bathing products! Well, since I mentioned it...if you haven't used Origin's Salt Rub, go do your legs a favor and buy some pronto. It banishes winter-blah skin and leaves your skin feeling softer than you'd think possible. Since I love the smell of the Salt Rub so much, it's no wonder that I enjoy Origin's Salt Suds body wash as well. Looking for a luxurious soak? I can't get enough of the Avobath from Lush. Love their bath melts as well. With all these indulgences, I should just name November National Pamper Yourself Month. I hope you're spoiling yourself as well!

Email Makeover: Inbox Zero

2007-11-05T17:13:00.000-08:00

"Inbox Zero," of Merlin Mann and 43 Folders fame, has literally transformed the way I use email at work. No longer are emails read, only to sit in my inbox indefinitely until I "do something" or forget about them--whichever comes first. Instead, Inbox Zero has taught me to process incoming information.

Because it has helped me drastically to get organized and be productive, I thought it might be helpful for some to hear my personal account of what I've been able to stick with and make work on a daily basis.

Processing--not just reading and replying to--Email
The general idea of Inbox Zero is just what it sounds like--keep your inbox empty. I have never been an email deleter and in my pre-zero days, had a consistently bulging inbox due to my fear of maybe needing something later on. Upon starting Inbox Zero, I took my entire inbox and dragged its contents to another folder, giving my inbox a clean slate. Amazingly, weeks later, I realized that I hadn't had to go back into that folder but a handful of times. All of that information I thought I needed "just in case," was really just clogging my access to relevant information.

For me, processing email typically results in one of the following events:

-Complete a specific task if it's something that can be done in less than 2-5 minutes (Merlin uses the 2 minute rule, but I find 2-5 more realistic).

-If it will take more than 2-5 minutes, determine the action steps required and assign them to a specific time or place (see The Email-Paper Connection, below).

-Decide that it's information that needs to be filed separately for reference, and do so.

-Read the information, then delete it if it's nothing I will come back to later.

The Email-Paper Connection
As I go through email, I keep one sheet of paper on my desk, typically divided horizontally in 5 parts, naturally for each day of the workweek. This allows me to quickly build out my workload for the week and how I should prioritize based on deadlines. If a certain task needs further notes or I have ideas to remember, I have a separate sheet of paper just for that specific task. I imagine many people use online to-do lists or some other form of digital time management, but I find that nothing beats a legal pad and pen for top-of-the-mind note taking and quick processing.

Schedule Time for Email
This is difficult for me to do considering my company more often than not uses email in lieu of phone calls or instant messages, but even so, as possible I shut down my Outlook while I'm working on a specific task that needs my full attention. Along those same lines, it follows that time to process email should be an isolated event, not a constant buzz and distraction in the background.

Want to give your email life a makeover? Visit the Inbox Zero site and be prepared to never use email the same way again.

Cozy Sunday Breakfast: Herbed Baked Eggs

2007-11-04T10:37:00.000-08:00

This morning I pulled out my tired, overused frying pan and couldn't bear another breakfast of ruined over-easy eggs because my nonstick pan is nonstick no longer. Thinking for a moment, I remembered a recent episode of The Barefoot Contessa where she baked eggs in a gratin dish. Bingo.

Her recipe calls for heavy cream and lots of fresh herbs, all of which I had none, so I made do with what I had: half and half, butter, fresh garlic, dried basil and oregano and shredded parmesan.

The result was bubbling hot, creamy, perfectly runny eggs laden with herb-spiked gooey parmesan. What's not to like? The perfect breakfast to warm me up on this gray, chilly Seattle morning.

Lobster Sashimi for Dinner

2007-11-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

...and monkfish liver, salmon roe, and deep-fried mackerel bones among other sashimi. The dinner lasted hours due to the many steps of preparation and gawking, but the time flew by.

The dinner began with the live lobster being ushered to the table on an enormous platter, a step I imagine that exists as proof of freshness. After we each held the flailing lobsters to get the obligatory "I'm going to eat this!" photo, they were swept back to the kitchen to be prepared as sashimi. The chef, Ken Zaburo (the restaurant's namesake), let me back in the kitchen to see the action.

The lobster's tail is expertly severed, the remainder of the lobster placed on a platter of crushed ice. The meat of the tail is removed from the shell using a knife and kitchen shears, then sliced into thin slices for serving.

The lobster sashimi is plated behind the still moving lobster, as even though the lobsters are dead when their tails are removed, their muscles continue to spasm. The taste was clean, while the texture was chewy, crunchy, and only the slightest bit rubbery.

The now half-eaten lobsters were once again whisked back to the kitchen for the final preparation step of our lobster dinner, returning cooked and drenched in butter over a large bed of flat noodles.

By this final course, I was absolutely stuffed as it was after we tackled a large platter of various sashimi, including the deep-fried mackerel bones and monkfish liver. The mackerel bone tasted like a kettle cooked potato chip, and the liver was silky in texture and not too fishy. I would have had more, but visions of the monkfish on display at Pike's Place Market kept my chopsticks away.

The experience was phenomenal--beyond delicious and memorable. Next time? Kobe beef sashimi. Who's hungry?

Holiday Inspired Makeup Palette

2007-11-02T08:30:00.000-07:00

Perusing the pages of Blueprint's first holiday issue, I was struck by the holiday decor featuring icy pinks, glowing apricots and saturated golds. Conveniently enough, I spied this modern winter palette minutes before sacrificing my unmade face and wallet to the aisles of downtown Nordstrom's makeup department.

I've been a Bare Escentuals girl for the last year, so I was ripe for a change in my makeup routine to give me the winter color boost I've been looking for. The bad: I was mistaken thinking that Halloween would be a quiet evening to shop for makeup, as my arrival at the M.A.C. counter found me overrun by Halloween enthusiasts being made up with gaudy face paint and too much black eyeliner. The good: Moving on and not knowing where to go, I spied the unassuming counter of Nars Cosmetics tucked far away from the Halloween hub-bub, so I parked my purse and took a gamble.

I won.

Sleek, black soft-touch compacts lined the counter, featuring powders velvety to the touch and in the most wearable of combinations. I was hooked before one swipe of powder foundation was swooshed across my cheek and down my nose. With the golden images of Blueprint in my mind, I chose a palette that will keep me glowing and fresh all the way through February without dipping into my tired summer bronzer.

The Look:

Powder Foundation, in Sante Fe
So soft, but it doesn't skimp on coverage. I like that it can be applied with the accompanying applicator sponge or a brush.

Blush, in Luster
A golden apricot hue that warms up your complexion without looking like you just went to the tanning salon--in winter.

Eyeshadow Duo, in Sugarland
Straight from Blueprint's Christmas tree. Matched with a glittery apricot, the gold-flecked pinkish violet is oh so sweet brushed in the creases of the eyes.

Eyeliner Pencil, in London
Make your eyes pop without harsh black eyeliner with this soft but firm slate grey pencil. This eyeliner glides on smoothly and takes your eyes from classic to smoky with a quick smudge along your lash line.

Makeup Primer
I've never used a makeup primer but have been a faithful user of Bare Escentual's bareVitamins Skin Rev-er Upper for at least a year (love the stuff). Since this was thrown in as a bonus to my purchase, I am happy to add it over the Rev-er Upper and under my makeup.

L'oreal Colour Riche Lipstick, in Caramel Latte
My mother, sister and I each have different colorings and skin tone, yet we all adore this lipcolor. It's subtle enough to allow quick application without a mirror yet packs enough pigment to pull your look together.

Photo Credits: Holiday images property of Blueprint Magazine
Nars Cosmetics from their website
L'oreal lipstick-sorry, no idea

It wasn't a novel idea-NaBloPoMo

2007-11-02T06:32:00.000-07:00

The other day I decided that I would post to my blog every day in November as a substitute for writing a novel (I'm a steadfast nonfiction girl). I didn't think I was being terribly original, though I shouldn't have been surprised to realize that as of this time, 6:36 Friday morning, that 4,728 people are doing it too. Gee...is my face red.

Though it squandered a bit of my thunder, I'm excited to have a community to join of interesting people with a focus, as opposed to a few other networks I know.

So, it's official--National Blog Posting Month. For better or worse, I will be writing here every day until November 30th!

Lessons Learned from the Ladies Room

2007-11-01T13:13:00.000-07:00

During the work hours at my computer, I seek refuge for my eyes by routinely turning my glance away from my computer screen and into the bottom of a glass. Be it tea, water, Fresca, or Tab Energy--I'm drinking it, and a lot of it. Considering such, it should be no surprise that I need to visit the ladies' room often--about once an hour.

Now, the office suites in my work building are modest. Ok, really modest--these offices are small and most don't house more than a couple of women (excluding the testosterone-free, overzealous fleece-vest-wearing environmental group around the corner). Despite this apparent lack of female representation on floor two, I have learned more than I ever needed to know about women and public restrooms.

I have unscientifically but methodically determined that there are five types of female public bathroom users:

1. The Participatory Pooper. This gal leaves home in the morning with it, allowing her to unceremoniously share it with everyone who has to take a quick bathroom break in the A.M. to relieve themselves from the grande latte they drank on their commute. There's one woman in particular who is known to me as "K. Swiss," because I can only identify her by her shoes and her stench--and I think K Swiss is a little nicer, so I choose to go with that. The Participatory Pooper unloads with a crowd, and she doesn't care. If she is a kind P.P., she will open the window, but if you hear it going up before you enter the ladies' room, proceed to another floor immediately.

2. The Curious Hand Washer. This woman rubs her hands together under the faucet for as long as it takes for a woman behind a stall door to reveal herself. She is curious and can't leave the restroom without confirming who might be sharing the room for a few minutes with her. She seems to play a game with herself, surreptitiously (and sometimes not) looking in the mirror and craning her neck to get a better view between the cracks to spy and identify the "culprit" before she's done and joins her at the sink.

3. The Brooding Tooth Brusher. This female brushes her teeth apparently after every meal but appears pissed off about it. Maybe the frequent brushing is mandated by her dentist or a nagging breath problem, but either way, don't get in her way at the sink. She is angry and avoids eye contact, though one of these days I'm dying to point out how old the pipes are in the building and ask her if the water tastes funny since it is so obviously cloudy.

4. The Timeout Toe-Tapper. Like the Participatory Pooper, the Timeout Toe-Tapper is most identifiable by her footwear (but thankfully not the stench). This woman waits for you to finish your business before proceeding with hers. She doesn't expend a peep while you are in there but instead keeps a happy, albeit sometimes impatient, beat with the tap of her toes. This woman has manners!

5. The Invisible. Ok, so I had to create a category for women such as myself, so deemed Invisible because we slip in and slip out, nary causing alarm to fly open the window or retreat to another floor. I think we all appreciate each other, as these are the only women that attempt to exchange sympathetic smiles when the smell is wretched and hand out compliments when one looks particularly cute that day. Of course, these are my favorite kind of ladies, though we don't provide very good stories.

Anyone else have tales from the office restroom? Leave a comment!

*I like to pretend someone is actually going to comment, hence the enthusiasm and belief that people are actually going to read this, much less have stories of their own. Keep the dream alive!

happenings: where did october go?

2007-10-31T12:32:00.000-07:00

October just wasn't my month, so I am more than happy to bid adieu to the last thirty-one days and start fresh tomorrow. I wouldn't say anything particularly bad has happened, but the grey clouds that have so permanently settled over Seattle have done a number on my personal wellbeing as well. Also this last month, I buried the final memories of relationships past and reevaluated a current one, all in hopes to leave what is, is, and to refuse to carry around such heavy emotion (baggage, anyone?!?).

In lighter news:

Reading: The United States of Arugula. Absolutely loving this book. I think I must have a vast pocket in my brain made specifically to tuck away facts, history, and really anything else I can learn, about food.

Sewing: After a couch cushion trial, I want to take a break and sew some garments instead. I've picked a couple of patterns from BurdaStyle (free!), and I've prepared some yards of fabric to reattempt the shirt.

Dreaming: About an ex marrying a woman named Bolo (no idea), being trapped in a cafeteria lined with coolers of fried eggs and raw bacon, and being attacked by a salamander-esque snake that licked my face like a dog. I was tired when I woke up--so busy!

Growing Obsession: Mental_Floss and other trivia sources. I enjoy its lightheartedness, randomness, and occasional usefulness (...why no, I didn't know the link between dalmatians and fire stations!). I've bought two of their books and read their blog daily. No aspirations of winning free beer or bar tabs, but I am just a learning kind of girl.

Cooking: Loving shrimp lately. Quick half-hour marinade of olive oil, lemon zest and juice, dried oregano and crushed garlic, 4-minute broil, and dinner is served.

Activity: I have started a ~~running~~ jogging regimen based on the success of my sister, Kelly. I don't think I see any half marathons in my future (she's run several!), but it was a grand excuse to buy a new pair of running shoes and a svelte pair of black running tights. I'd wear them everyday if I could--so comfortable!

Looking forward to: I will be checking out SAM, reconnecting with an old friend over lobster, seeing Feist perform at the Paramount, and going to see the movie Lars and the Real Girl.

Goal: I type this heavily, as I hesitate to put such a concrete goal out there for looming Internet eyes to see, but I am going to do my best to write at least one post a day for the month of November. Notice I didn't say a good post, so keep that in mind! I'm not patting myself on the back, though--T is writing a novel!.

Biking the Iron Horse Trail

2007-10-18T08:32:00.000-07:00

The Iron Horse Trail is what's called a "rail trail," a trail that follows the path of railroad tracks that have since been removed. If you stay on the Iron Horse from Seattle, you'll end up in St. Louis; however, we made a little 20-ish mile round trip as a teambuilding day for the office.

If you start the trail as suggested via the Annette Lake Trail (alternatively, just past the tunnel there's a parking lot right at the trail), be prepared to essentially carry your bike up a mountain for a mile. Quite plainly, it was miserable, and I have the bruises to prove it! It's an often winding path, spotted with tree stumps, roots and slippery rocks. To not leave you feeling completely discouraged, there is a waterfall and the accompanying calming sound of running water, if you can hear it over your cursing and clanging of your bike!

The coolest part of the trail? The tunnel! The tunnel is a 2.3 mile freezing, pitch-black jaunt under a mountain. Within about 20 feet outside either end of it, you can see your breath. It was so cold in there! It was also very dark. We were warned by our experienced co-worker to bring fleece and most importantly, a flashlight and/or headlight. Needless to say, I was the only one who remembered, so my mini-maglite was the only source of illumination we had for the three of us. After we calmed down from this realization, we viewed it as the perfect teambuilding challenge. My boss went first, holding the mini-flashlight. The experienced one of the group volunteered to trail last, luckily leaving me the spot in the middle (whew!).

The first time through felt like the longest 2.3 miles I can remember. We could spy the other end of the tunnel, but the size of the opening never seemed to get any bigger no matter how fast we pedaled. We were randomly doused with water streaming through the ceiling and splashed with the subsequent puddles on the trail. We each ran into the walls once--we laughed, though. And despite a low-battery scare, we made it through successfully both times!

Above, my boss
and I re-emerging from
the tunnel for a photo-op.

Most of the trail going east from the tunnel follows the perimeter of "Stump Lake." If you've never driven through Snoqualmie Pass, just see the pictures below and you'll see why this manmade lake has earned this less-than-lovely name.

Feel like taking your own trip now? As a quick guide, here is the the list of things to bring for this or a similar fall biking trip:

· A lunch

· A snack (trail mix, power bar, etc.)

· Water bottle

· Rain jacket

· Rain pants

· Fleece

· Warm hat

· Light weight gloves

· A few layers of light weight clothing that you can add or subtract depending on the weather.

· A flashlight (a headlamp would be better if you have one)

· Camera (optional)

· Daypack to put all this stuff in

As a final note, thanks to my coworker for the pictures and the above pack list!

Finished: Butterick B5100

2007-10-17T10:40:00.000-07:00

Butterick B5100 wasn't an item I was particularly excited about sewing, but I was lured by the pattern's choice of words, specifically "express" and "one hour." Granted, it took me much longer than an hour, but as with most projects, looking back I see how it could have been so much faster!

I made view B, and the only change I made from the instructions was a shorter hemline. I also made the belt, but I don't really like it and probably won't wear it. The tunic/dress is obviously very plain and sensible, but I think it will be a good layering piece for work, maybe over a long-sleeved shirt, with tights, boots, and a long-belted sweater.

What slowed me down?
1) Cutting knit. Woe is me when it comes to cutting fabric, but it is just plain not my favorite thing to do. And to think, I thought it was ironing I hated this whole time!

2) Seam binding. I was told this wasn't necessary with knits, yet the pattern called for it. Explicit instructions, paired with my vast inexperience with sewing anything, persuaded me to hunker down and figure it out (note: this occupied a lot of thought Saturday. Really sad.) Between this page and this book, I managed to "finish" my seams, though I have no idea if it's the right way.

What did I learn?
1) How to understitch. I learned that even if a pattern doesn't call for understitching, to always do it anyway. What is it? After sewing on the facing, you are of course left with the seam allowance. Trim the seam, then sew the trimmed/leftover seam allowance to the facing (not the garment!). The stitches aren't going to show, but it holds the seam allowance to the facing, so when you flip the facing to the inside of the garment, you are left with a professional, "neat," and bulk-free seam.

What's my next project?
Sewing cushions and/or pillows for the back of my couch. The cushions that came with the couch are too lumpy to be comfortable, plus I'm excited to use a bold green and white print to liven up my beige and off-white living room.

Grilled Goat Cheese Sandwich with Fig and Honey

2007-10-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

The title says it all, does it not? This recipe from Cooking Light perhaps sounds strange, but the combination of ingredients have such a delicate balance of flavors. It's not too sweet, not too savory, but 100% decadent (without the guilt from grabbing a pastry at the coffee shop!)

I wouldn't change a thing from the recipe, but here's the quick rundown of what I did specifically:

-Using a spoon, mix a couple tablespoons of crumbled goat cheese with plenty of lemon zest and a good squeeze of honey to make it all stick together.

-It doesn't really spread easily, so use your (clean!)fingers to pat it down on a slice of cinnamon bread. I used Cinnabon brand cinnamon bread--I didn't miss the raisins.

-Spread a layer of fig preserves over the goat cheese and top with thinly sliced fresh basil (never substitute dried). I used about 3-4 leaves.

-Cook in a frying pan coated with nonstick cooking spray on medium-medium high, using a heavy pot to weigh the sandwich down and "smoosh" it together (I found my tea kettle filled with water was the perfect size).

-After cooking sandwich for 2-3 minutes each side, slice in half to make two triangles and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Note: Sorry about the bad picture...I was running late for the bus, so I had to snap quick!

French Onion Soup

2007-10-03T08:04:00.000-07:00

It's been cold and rainy all week, so I wanted to make a simple, warm, one-pot dish for dinner. Since I am forever crushing on Tyler Florence, I browsed his recipes from Tyler's Ultimate and stumbled upon his version of French onion soup. I say "his version," but after some research, I found that his recipe is more or less the standard.

The best part of making this soup? I made a half-batch, which means that I only needed 1/2 cup of red wine, leaving the rest of the bottle for me to drink (convenient!). After having a bowl of soup, some bites of Italian sausage, and a bottle of wine, I have to admit scooping some onions from the pot of soup and piling them on a slice of leftover baguette was a brilliant idea (but you didn't hear it from me!).

French Onion Soup: Half-batch Version
Heavily inspired by Tyler Florence's recipe

1/4 c unsalted butter
2-2 1/4 pounds onions,* sliced
3 garlic cloves, chopped
salt and pepper
1/2 c red wine**
1 heaping T all-purpose flour
1 quart high quality beef broth
baguette, sliced
1/4 pound Gruyere

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and salt and pepper and cook until the onions are very soft and caramelized (this took about 35 minutes for me). Add the wine, bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer until the wine has evaporated and the onions are dry, about 5 minutes. Dust the onions with the flour and give them a stir. Turn the heat down to medium low so the flour doesn't burn, and cook for 10 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Now add the beef broth, bring the soup back to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper.

In the meantime, grate the Gruyere (or peel into ribbons using a vegetable peeler, as I did) and top the baguette slices (be generous!). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Broil until bubbly and golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes.

Top off your bowls of soup with the cheesy baguette, and you're done!

*I looked all over the Internet to find out what kind of onions to use, and no one knows. Yellow (non-sweet, i.e. not Vidalias) seemed to be the most common recommendation, followed by red onions. I chose to use both--two yellow and one red.
**I used a mid-range Washington Merlot, though any reasonably dry, red wine that you would drink (important!) would be delicious.

I'm sewing a shirt

2007-10-01T07:21:00.001-07:00

...and I'm stuck! Apparently, learning to sew from books and blogs isn't quite the cake walk I had hoped it was. I am sewing view B from Simplicity 3751, a gathered, belted blouse with a scoop neckband, which has turned out to be quite literally a pain in the neck.

Let me explain: I simply cannot figure out how to attach the darn thing! What's frustrating, is that I know it has to be so simple. I sewed the bodice, attached the sleeves, did the gathering...all without a hitch. I'm so close to being finished but cannot!

So, in the meantime my mom's inbox is full of scanned pattern directions and pictures of my shirt, as pictured above. I still want to complete something, however, so I am working on an easier project, a knit-tunic-sort-of-dress-thing (Butterick 5100, view B). I have my pieces ready to cut, so after I run to the store to buy matching thread, I hope I can get this project finished by next Monday.

how to travel with gadgets

2007-09-26T11:55:00.001-07:00

I don't know about you, but every time I go on a trip I cram all the different chargers I need into random pockets in my suitcase and purse and inevitably, I return home missing one or two. I took a trip this past week, and as I was packing my cords into different pockets as usual, I stopped myself and decided this time would be different. I was determined to return home with all of my gadget's life supports!

I had four chargers to bring: usb cord for my camera, usb for my ipod, cell phone charger, and laptop cord.

At first I thought I could just store them all in the same pocket or a smaller bag, but then that left a chance that I'd still forget to put one back in there, considering I'm bad about spreading my things all over the place, even on a short trip.

Solution? As pictured above, I took a hint from how people store embroidery thread and cut out a piece of a cardboard box I had laying around to essentially make a large spool. It worked better than I expected because not only did it keep everything in one place, it ensured that I would easily recognize that something was missing if all of the notches were not full.

Simple solution, but my gadget's batteries are full after my return home and my wallet's fatter for not having to replace anything!

the motel project: bridge motel

2007-09-16T00:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight I went to the so-called "wake" of the iconic-but-not-in-a-good-way Bridge Motel near the Aurora Bridge. A seedy motel, ripe with tales of murder, needles in mattresses, prostitutes, and drug deals among other niceties, to some people stands for "hip Seattle culture." To protest the hotel's upcoming demolition so it can be replaced with condos (boo), the motel became a canvas for a one-night installation by several local artists.

It was crowded, but it was...awesome. It's one of those "you had to be there" events, but I will do my best to describe it using some pictures I snapped (all other photos I took are now posted on my flickr).

The motel was packed, and I'm not sure the last time I had to rub against so many random people. The line formed on the stairs to see the upstairs rooms, and though only a few people at a time were permitted, people were hanging out so there was just no movement. I'm not really complaining, though, because it was good--no I mean good--people watching.

The guy you see crouched on the roof with the umbrella, well he was nude and creeping around and peering over the edge to make scary faces. Random.

By looking at the picture above, I doubt you could guess it was in the motel's parking lot. I'm not sure how it was arranged or who got to have dinner here, but I read snippets online about it that it was supposed to be a "one pot" and "weird" dinner. It looked and smelled good, though.

Also in the parking lot--the lounge. Personally I wouldn't dream about even sitting on the edge of any of the motels' mattresses, but by the time we left I saw several people laying across them and I spied a little bit of cuddling--eew.

One of my top two favorite rooms, the campfire room. They had cut out the roof (I wonder if umbrella guy was leaning over--he had to be cold!) and installed some logs around the fire pit. Some guys dressed as urban cowboys (or maybe it was their regular clothes) were simply hanging out and didn't seem to pay attention to the hordes of people ogling them and snapping pictures.

Room #7. My favorite--the salt room. I thought it was sand until I spied the emptied bags of food grade table salt. We had to take our shoes off, and once in you got to pad around and filter through the miscellaneous letters, pictures, and notes buried in the salt.

This guy was hilarious. I was stuck in a people jam outside one room's window but was fortunately entertained by this guy dancing on the bed. I'm not sure if he was part of the room's art installation or just having a good time.

The project was so much fun to walk through, it's too bad it was for one night only. I did find out however, that it is the first of 3 events in the motel project. Overall, though I'm weary of another new-condo-building-with-street-level-retail-! going up, I can't say that its demise is symbolic of Seattle's art culture being stifled. The night's event was testament that it is just as strong as ever.

saturday sewing

2007-09-15T23:36:00.001-07:00

A little more serious today, I made the clutch from Amy Butler's In Stitches. Her instructions are the easiest to understand that I've found (sorry, Lotta), and there are a number of things in the book that I wouldn't mind making.

This was my first time using batting, interfacing, and a magnetic snap...and I got it all to work!

Since I'm still a sewing rookie, I followed the pattern rather closely. I'm finding that it's best to do that first to see how it "works," and then next time I can draw my own pattern to make it my own design.

I'm happy with the way it turned out, except that I wouldn't mind it having a tad more stability. I didn't want the bag to be too quilted, so I used only one layer of batting as opposed to the two the pattern instructed. I'm not sure if that would really make much of a difference in the durability of the bag, but regardless, I think next time I would skip the batting all together and use a stiff interfacing instead (or both, if I want the quilted feel).

I eschewed the velcro the pattern recommended and opted for the magnetic snap. A little nicer looking, I think, and so easy to do!

All in all, so happy I got to fit in a project this weekend!

my friday night

2007-09-15T11:16:00.001-07:00

No excuses, except that I was bored, had some scrap fabric, and was listening to the beach boys.

(by the way, it's a cat!

cop-out

2007-09-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

Lame excuse, but two of my favorite performers since I saw them live this summer--Bret and Jemaine from Flight of the Conchords'--are using it, and so must I

From their website:
"Members of the band (Jemaine and Bret) have noticed that whenever they are doing things that could be reported on the website, they are too busy to update the website. In addition, whenever the band members have some spare time in which they could update the website, there is usually, as one member put it 'nothing going on'."

I really do have a plan to make this blog so much better, but despite my best intentions it has been pushed aside by priorities like work trips, getting ready for a trip home to Texas (next week!), lots of time with friends, and some face time with a few books.

I hope by the time I get back from Katy, I will be settled and refreshed to write more and really getting started on all the projects I've been thinking and talking about. Don't give up on me yet!

Note: Curious where the word/phrase "cop-out" comes from? Me too.

Mister Tibbets

2007-09-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

I spent the long holiday at Bumbershoot with T. In short, it was a blast. The weather was gorgeous, the music toe-tapping and head-bobbing good, the spiked lemonade giggle-inducing, and my company, so much fun. T wrote about it here.

The above poster is a hand-screened print by Aesthetic Apparatus I bought at the festival. I particularly love their art prints, and I am on the edge of my seat hoping they bring the Happy/Sad Submarines back in stock!!

In lieu of writing about the shows I've seen this summer (so many!!), in the next week I will be creating a playlist of my favorites and will post here. Watch for it!

my neighbors

2007-08-27T20:03:00.000-07:00

My neighbors across the street have a yard full of dogs--4 to be exact (either some unfortunate pugs or some kind of mix). I know this because they sit next to the sidewalk with their noses through the fence, trying to bite the ankles of anyone or anything that tries to walk by. They sit at the fence for hours at a time,which is a little hidden from the house since it's on a hill, so I figured I could surreptitiously snap a few dog photos.

Some ground gazing...

Some fence inspecting...

Some grass eating...

As promised, tote #2

2007-08-27T12:11:00.000-07:00

I actually made this tote a while ago, but I am finally getting around to posting the pictures. This tote was made with the "all day tote" pattern from Lotta Jansdotter's book Simple Sewing. The pattern was very easy to follow despite it being my second--SECOND--sewing project ever.

What would I do differently? A lot. Even though I used a sturdy denim for the exterior of the tote as the instructions directed, it is a floppy bag. It tends to take the shape of whatever objects are inside, which makes it lumpy. Not a good look.

Also, that white "stripe" on the front is an additional pocket--I don't care for it much. The instructions called for twill tape (the white part you are seeing), but it looks a little messy. I wouldn't use it again.

Regardless, it was fun to make and now I know next time that I need to learn to use interfacing!

Some additional pictures:

Carnival of Personal Finance

2007-08-27T12:03:00.000-07:00

Just an announcement that a blog post of mine, "How to find money," was included in the latest issue of Carnival of Personal Finance, a collection of recent blog posts and articles about personal finance. Lots of good info, check it out!