Me in Melange

Thanksgiving in May

Since the world is all turned upside down anyway, I decided to surprise the kids with Thanksgiving in MAY.  I think I was maybe more intrigued with this idea than the kids to be honest, but it was fun anyway.  I don't think I've EVER made a whole turkey outside of the holy day of Thanksgiving.  Never.  I wasn't even sure you could BUY a turkey off season.  Yep, it turns out you sure can.  It also turns out (according to the meat guy) that quite a few people make turkeys on the regular.  Who knew? 

Anyway, we had a traditional Thanksgiving dinner today.  A lower stress version of the actual Thanksgiving meal and I have to say, it was super yummy (AND fun).  I love this holiday, the food AND the spirit of it.  Seemed like a lovely idea to do a pre-2020 Thanksgiving.

So here's to changing things up sometimes! 

This will be our first week open, and we're ready to happily test the water with all our favorite people.  We are navigating this new territory day by day, and we realize how weird this is for everyone (believe me, us too).   We're all trying to figure out how to reach our toes out of our bubble, and into the world again.  It feels odd, nothing feels normal, and it's hard to get use too.  The good news is that we're all adapting together, and underneath all the new procedures, masks, and caution, are all the favorite people we love and we know we can move thru all this uncertainty together.  

Signed, ME {lv}

Meringues, Reopening & Life Stresses

First off, I made meringues today...sugar FREE meringues.  I ordered powdered monkfruit sugar, and substituted that in and it actually worked just fine.  That was a highlight of the day (also, a tiny 20 minute fraction of the day).  The rest of the minutes were filled with all kinds of life stresses.  One big one?  Ava is a month (conservatively) behind on home school assignments.  ADHD teens with no structure right now are not fairing well.  I spent five solid hours on English and Political Econ with her and we went painfully week by week, assignment by assignment.  Oh the fun. I also feel very strongly that I could barely make it thru a high school English class present day.  It certainly didn't feel that hard when I was in high school, but then again, I might have been blowing half of it off, I can't remember.

What I realized today though, as I was sitting down to work AFTER the harder work of trying to keep Ava on task, was that despite the excitement about reopening this Friday, I'm quickly realizing it brings with it all kinds of new stresses.  It's the reminder that you solve one problem and you replace it with others right?  These past eight weeks we could do nothing but lament NOT being open, and worrying about what that meant, and letting the stress of being closed be something that was going to be solved by being open.

Clearly, that's not quite true.  The stress of being closed is about to be replaced by the stress of being open, which could be better, but on the other hand, might still be really stressful.  I guess my only point is that we have to simply remind ourselves to deal with whatever is on our plates right now, and try hard not to pretend that things will be substantially different when "x" happens.  The truth is, life has more stressors than we can expect, and the only way to navigate them is to accept then, and expect more to come our way.

So bring on the reopening stress, I welcome it, as long as we get to see everyone's smiling faces.

I'm also welcoming the cutest new Not Soap, Radio line that we just got in.  Quirky soaps, scrubs and lotions, that make you smile, but also smell wonderful and feel wonderful on the body.  We all need more "little luxuries" in our life that make us happy and this is a perfect example!  They make awesome gifts too!

Signed, ME {lv}

 

The Tough Decisions

A tough decision...what Friday happy hour cocktail to have (wine? whiskey? you can't make up these tough scenarios right?).  No, this post isn't actually about THIS tough decision (big sigh of relief), it's about a real one.

I'm talking about the tough decisions that lay ahead for all of us.  Coronavirus has halted life as we know it, and small businesses everywhere are wondering if they will ever open their doors again and whether they can financially hold out any longer.  Small businesses are the heart and soul of this country, and most of us would readily agree that we love and support them everywhere, and that their absence would make this country a lesser place.  When you come into a new city, anywhere in this country, it's the collection of small stores, boutiques, bookstores and restaurants that bring charm to the place.  You don't drive into Austen Texas and look to go shopping at the local Target.  No, you go to the cute downtown, and stroll thru the darling stores local to that area, the ones that give the area its flavor.  You eat at the unique restaurants (chances are you aren't searching out an Olive Garden), and you experience what that city is all about.  That's what small businesses do across this country, they bring the flavor and spirit into every single city.

Which brings me to the part about tough decisions.  I was talking to my girlfriend today, and she mentioned a cookbook she had just bought.  I asked her where she bought the book, she admitted it was Amazon she bought it from, and then we managed to launch into a discussion about how it's important to buy books from a small business (in particular we talked about a bookstore in Oregon called Powells).  You know what I realized though? Neither of us had done it. I had wanted to buy books from Powells on a couple of occasions but they were back logged and the wait was a couple of weeks  (I think they have since cleared the backlog), and because I didn't want to wait, I ordered it from Amazon.  I know, I'm almost too embarrassed to even admit that.  It's true though, I succumbed to the "right now" spirit of American consumerism.  

The truth is I "try" to buy from small businesses a lot, and I "try" to buy sustainable products, but the hard to admit reality is I mostly do it when it's convenient for me and I'm like most of Americans, I've become super spoiled and haven't forced myself to sacrifice much.  I want things FAST, I want it for good price, I don't want to have to sacrifice convenience because I'm busy and value my time.  Basically, I make up excuses as to why I don't want to do the hard work, and make the tough decisions, because I hope that I don't have to (or maybe I think that I shouldn't have to--I might as well acknowledge my entitlement here).  

Yes, when you shop in a small business, you sometimes get less selection.  Sometimes the prices aren't quite as good.  Sometimes you have to wait longer for a product. Sometimes return policies, or exchange windows aren't as good as big box stores.  It's not always the easiest choice, and that's the truth.  I know for myself personally, I need to be willing to make the tough decisions more and know that it's worth it, because if it's one thing I have realized with this whole covid-19 crisis, it's that we have a lot to lose when we lose small businesses. They are fragile, and they are in jeopardy. Do we really want to live in a country where our options are Amazon, Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Forever 21, Macy's etc,?  All the personality, the heart, soul, ingenuity and individuality gets ripped out.  None of us want that, so the question is how can we change our behavior right now to make sure that doesn't happen?  The big stores won't go out of business, but small businesses will.  Amazon is going nowhere.

So I guess what I'm saying is that even though I've worked in a small business for the last 20 years, I know I have really only made my commitment to small businesses when it was most convenient to do so, and not when it wasn't.  NO MORE, I'm going to make the tough decisions and support small businesses whenever humanly possible.  Trust me, I'm addicted to Amazon Prime too, but now more than ever, we have to choose what is most important to us and we have to stand up for that, the time has come.

I started to look today for some outdoor pillows, and found myself by routine going to the big online retailers...Joss & Main, West Elm, Crate & Barrel, and even Amazon.  I stopped myself though, and I went onto Etsy instead.  What I found was a whole world of awesome handmade outdoor pillows in lots and lots of great fabrics.  Yes, it'll take longer to get them.  I may end up spending a little more money.  However, I feel good supporting someone's small business and it is consistent with my goal.  The lure of Amazon has seduced me,  ordering something and getting it the next day for super cheap, it's very hard to resist.  I'm not saying Amazon doesn't have its place, but the ramifications for letting it take over are devastating.  The truth is I value a hand written note from an Etsy shop owner more and I have to live by that value with more integrity.

For all of you who've already had this full revelation and supported OUR small business for this very reason, thank you.   Thank you for getting it.  Thank you for making the tough decisions and sticking with us thru all the headaches that sometimes attach themselves to any small operation.  In the end I have to believe that the short comings of small business are far exceeded by the contribution they make to our country, and for that we have to sacrifice sometimes.   Actually, it's not even about what we sacrifice, it's really about valuing what we GET more than what we sacrifice, because we do get an awful lot and there's nothing like the vision of a future with significantly less small businesses to drive that point home.

Signed, ME {lv}

Hysterical Video, First Day Of Water & Window of Opportunity

I don't want to jump ahead, but Amanda's water challenge is HARD.  We decided that we needed to set a list of goals and challenges we wanted to meet each week in April.  Amanda has been talking about her increased water consumption for a couple of weeks (her lemon water specifically), and I've half listened.  I did notice however, how BAD I am at drinking water.  I just never do.  Then I read if you aren't going to the bathroom at least once an hour, you aren't drinking enough water.  Uh-oh, not good news for me.  I've also noticed my skin is dry, even with my bad ass Augustinus Bader moisturizer which is the mother of all heavy moisturizing creams.  Maybe I need to drink water?

So Amanda's challenge/goal for the first week of April (to get us all in on her new healthy habit) is to drink 100 ounces of water  a day.  I started today, filled up a carafe that was 32 ounces, and set it on my desk.  By 3 p.m. I had drank one full carafe, but that meant two more to go??  Seems impossible.  So then I googled what a safe amount of water to drink was, just in case Amanda was trying to do us in.  I found conflicting data, everywhere from 64 ounces to 100 ounces.  She's at the top of her game clearly. I'm not going to get plumped hydrated skin and increased mental performance (yes, I actually read that) unless I step up my game too. Sign up to do these challenges with us, we're going to be each other's cheer leaders, and we get treats at the end!

I started the challenge on the last day of March as a test run, and I only got to about 68-70 ounces of water.  Tomorrow I'll try for 75, but honestly today was tough enough.  I told Amanda it felt like I was being waterboarded.  Too. Much. Water.  She said that it does feel like a lot in the beginning but that when she drinks the full amount she feels less irritated, less hungry, less bloated, and has less headaches.  Jury is out for me but I'm going to stick to the goal.

I also am going to post this hysterical video (NY Post Video) for anyone out there dealing with online learning for their kids.  It pretty much sums up the experience.  For the last two weeks our high school has been saying they were going to issue assignments but basically they wouldn't be graded or counted.  To which the response from the teens was pretty predictable,  "Yeah, right, sure we'll do them" (insert smirk).  Just found out this morning though that they will start REAL graded lessons on 4/13, so that's progress.  Romeo is knee deep in Time4Learning online, and Gia has online meetings each day with her class but so far they are just talking about feelings and introducing house pets.  Not sure when the "real work" will start. Once it all starts I imagine the above video will sum up all my feelings.

I'm excited for this month, and seizing the day.  Today was a random mix of beautiful bursts of sunshine and then crazy rain (and even hail).  I missed several opportunities to take walks in the sun, and got stuck in the rain.  I am treating it as a reminder that we need to grab what we can from life as we can.  Moments of sunshine, of laughter, of fun.  Yes, I realize that sounds a little "Deep Thoughts" from retro Saturday Night Live
episodes, but it's also true right?  On my daily walk with Romeo we snapped this pic of a beautiful flower and we're finding a new one each day to appreciate because after all, it's one of the best things about April, all the beautiful blooms bursting forth!

I will end with one note. The water drinking thing...It really has to all happen before 6 p.m. because all I know is I'll be getting up to go to the bathroom all night.  Is that an age thing?  Or did I have too many kids and ruin my blatter?  Don't know, all I know is that I have another 50 ounces to drink in an hour and a half.  Is that even safe?  Can't you die from too much water? 

Here's to hoping I make it.

Signed, ME {lv}

ps.  I plan to come out of this quarantine with all kinds of things done, muscles strengthened, and good habits cemented down.  I will however, also be coming out of quarantine with some BAD hair.  Serious roots, split ends, bad highlights.  It's not going to be pretty.  Until then, it's hair ties, clips, scrunchies, hats, and hair masks.  You do what you can with what you have.

Jumping to Conclusions, Sabotaged Yoga & Costco Mania

This is my daily reminder to myself to NOT make assumptions.  We all do it constantly, and sometimes it’s just utilitarian and necessary.  Sometimes it’s unfair and counter-productive.  I do it a lot with my older girls.  I got my undies all in a wad this morning when I couldn’t find a shirt I wanted to wear.  I was ready to tear into someone for stealing it without permission.  I had my finger on the trigger the second I realized the shirt wasn’t there.  To be fair, I’m not entirely crazy, they have stolen MANY things from me (their version is that it was “borrowed”), and it’s been a lot more than once that I’ve found things crumbled up on their bedroom floor.  Once Lucia even CUT a shirt of mine (cropping shirts is a big thing with teens and her excuse was that I never wear it).

Anyway, I was about to hit the fan this morning, angry energy was pouring out every pore of my body….and then I found the shirt, in the place I had put it away, and then forgotten I had put it away there (only to remember when I actually found it).  OOOOOHHHHH, yeah.

My point is this...Get your finger off the trigger, don't jump to conclusions.

My morning yoga class was sabotaged because I forgot to leave my door unlocked.   It’s house cleaning day, my one day where I get to enjoy a few hours of a clean house before the minors ravish it again.  It’s basically my favorite day.  I am suppose to leave the door unlocked, and even though I remembered everything else this morning and had plenty of time to finish the laundry, write their check, pick up all over the house (basically do a mini-clean before the deep clean), somehow I forgot the most important part. I know, first world problem, but still a bummer. 

So 5 minutes into the class my watch vibrates, and I can see it’s the cleaning service, and instantly I remember that I had forgotten.  I was so mad at myself!  Why is it that I have to literally write everything down or I forgot?  Can I blame it on peramenopause? I had to pack up all my crap and dash because otherwise my window of time would be over and they would write me off.  I get so much joy from yoga, but I DO also really love a clean house….there were clearly conflicting worlds today.

Almost lastly, I had my normal Costco food delivery today (there isn’t a Costco very close to us so I just have it delivered every couple of weeks).  The guy that usually comes is hysterical, with dreadlocks that go past his butt, a big laugh, and he's always full of jokes.  So we got to chatting and he told me stories about the current Costco mania.  Apparently people are stocking up x 10.  Understandably people are nervous, but I didn’t realize quite how bad until he showed me pictures of the line for checkout on Saturday (no joke, it was like a 4 hour line), and the huge cart flats he was filling for orders.  I had ordered garbanzo beans and he informed me there wasn’t a “bean to be had” in all of Costco…and apparently it was a good thing I didn’t need toilet paper either because there was a run on that too.    I’ll say it again, my goal is to NOT freak out despite all the current events.  He told me that he delivered a big flat shopping cart of soda pop to a woman.   No joke, he showed me the cart, and there had to be 50 big things of soda stacked on it, every kind imaginable.  I said it must have been for the woman's restaurant, or a school carnival or SOMETHING other than 'end of the world prep'?  No such luck, he actually asked her, and indeed, she wasn't worried about running out of water, but she was REAL worried about running out of pop.  True story.

Lastly, for real, how cute does Amanda look in in the header picture wearing the new EF (tee, cardigan and scarf)??  Such a cute group!

Signed, ME {lv}

Rain, Snow, Cashmere & Soup

Our weather is just dreadful.  Rain, more rain, maybe snow, probably freezing rain at some point.  The kids are praying for a snow day, and apparently, according to the urban legend floating around elementary schools, if you wear your pj’s inside out, put a fork under your pillow and flush ice cubes down the commode, you are going to summon the snow gods and get a snow day.  I will note, that did not actually work last night for Romeo & Gia, but I expect they will give I another try tonight.

This time of year really does get trying with the weather and this is the time when you really start getting sick of it, but yet spring feels so far away.  In another two weeks though, suddenly you can start to see the tiny light at the end of the tunnel.  In February it feels like a stone’s throw from March, Spring break, and the budding of crocuses.  There is hope, let’s just put it that way.  Today, not so much.

So it’s clearly the perfect day for soup, which sounds super lovely to me.  Warm, cozy soup.  I mean really, is there anything better than an all-inclusive chili meal?   I’m adding that to my things to do today to nurture myself (along with of course, sleep.)

I want to also share that I’ve recently, in my new year’s effort to knock annoying things off my to do list, have done a whole bunch of hand washing.  In particular, some of my heavier, nicer cashmere pieces from Margaret O’Leary.  I washed everything in the “hand wash” cycle in the wash, and lay it flat to dry.  The cashmere feels awesome, and it’s SO much cheaper than dry cleaning (and I’ve heard it from key people in the know, It’s actually BETTER for the cashmere fiber to hand wash it vs. dry clean it).   Then I take a sweater stone to it to erase away any piling, and the sweaters look brand new. All I’m saying is, don’t be too nervous with your cashmere.  It’s not as delicate as you think, and I understand the fear in washing a $500 cashmere turtleneck, but I do it a lot, and all of my Margaret O’Leary cashmere looks perfect and I’ve kept pieces for YEARS and years.   The fibers do sort of “contract’ after washing it, but if you give it a little stretch as you lay it flat to dry it finds its original shape.  The fibers relax as you warm them up wearing it and it’s not so much that it shrinks, it just pulls up a bit, but then relaxes again.  

I went to yoga today, and the message was just a reminder that each day is a new day….a new chance to do the things you want to do, or aspire to do.  If you left January 1^stwith a long list of resolutions that have yet to be actualized in any way, shape, or form, just remember, each day is a brand new slate, and you write on it what you want. 

Here's to a nice clean slate with so much possibility!

Signed, ME {lv}

The Force, It's Not Your Fault, & First Weekend Of January

We took the kids to see the new Star Wars movie yesterday.  We bought 7 tickets to be exact because we added the guy that Ava is dating.  We all get there and Lucia decides she really doesn’t want to be there and she wants to über home to meet her friend to do something else.  Then Ava declares she really never wanted to see Star Wars since she’s seen none of the others in the series (when I asked her if she wanted to go the day before seems would have been a much better time to tell me.)  Her date was smart enough to just say he was “cool with anything”.  The tickets were pre-purchased so we couldn't get them into another movie, so we took out a second mortgage to buy popcorn and drinks, and finally got into the theater with 6 people.  About 20 minutes into the movie Ava shoulder taps me and her and her date wanted to permission to “bail since they didn’t understand the movie” and would rather go meet his friends to hang out.  So the upshot of all of that is my planned out “family movie night” was the two remaining kids, John and I.  Very, very aggravating (and needlessly expensive).  Not what I envisioned at all.  Common theme for this weekend though is to roll with the punches.

The silver lining however was the ah-ha moment I had this morning when I went to yoga and the instructor talked about listening to yourself and voice inside to guide your vision for the new year….which seemed to coincide pretty perfectly with the moment in the movie last night where a bit character says to one of the main characters, “but how do you know?” and he stops, pauses and says, “I just know.”  In other words, the force showed him the way. So that’s my yoga AND Stars Wars take away.  Following your instinct (inner voice, gut feeling, compass or whatever you want to call it), it’ll show you the way for the new year.  

Today John and I went shopping for Ava’s birthday which is just a few days away (winter babies are so hard, I wish someone had warned me).  My big take away was my revelation from watching John try and shop for Ava, while being surrounding (or at least in close proximity) to stuff HE wanted.  Since the kids were little I’ve taken them each individually to shop for birthday presents for friends, or for siblings or family, trying to teach them to focus on someone else and be thoughtful about it--even if for just 5 short minutes.  Ava is horrible at it, she can’t make it 3 minutes without wanting something for herself.  The other kids are now better to varying degrees (but they are still kids though, and generally kids are bad at this.)  I made myself nuts trying to make these gift buying expeditions “teaching moments” and let me tell you, take a 7 year old to the toy store and tell her to pick out a gift for her friend?  It’s a nightmare.  Anyway, what I realized today watching John is that it was probably a total waste of time because Ava is no better at focusing at 17 than she was at 7, and John is no better at 50.  It's just personality.  I had to constantly refocus him, he just couldn’t stop the distraction of seeing things that he might potentially want (he came home with shoes for himself, and I'm lucky it was just shoes.)   So basically, lest you forget, your control as a parent over personality is pretty limited. It's not your fault that you can't train/teach it out of them.  I was probably better off foregoing those miserable toy store trips with Ava and saving myself the stress because my guess is she’s still going to turn out just like her dad.  There are worse things :-), but it does get expensive. 

I will also note that because I was so dead set on making this weekend the poster-weekend for 2020 since it’s the first kick off weekend, I immediately had the worse sleep EVER last night.  Like ever, ever.    Which makes me want to eat 4 of my new favorite gluten free powdered donut that I’m obsessed with (instead of the more appropriate one). Lesson there is to not hold too tightly to any one vision, there is a good chance you have to roll with plan B (which is NOT get nearly enough sleep on the kick off weekend of the new year AND over indulging in too many sweets which will be appropriately blamed on fatigue). 

Signed, ME {lv}

Why We Should Look Good (In Case You Need A Reason)

The question on our home page, “Are you looking good for fall?”, it has me thinking.... 

I went to a last minute dinner this past weekend at Ava’s friend’s parent’s house.  She probably had 10 friends there, and then all of the various parentals etc. that came with them.  For a moment as I walked in, I had this thought of seeing myself thru Ava’s eyes. What she thought of her mom, at 16, in this big group of her friends and all their parents.   Did she think I looked good?  Did she like my outfit, was I cool enough, or dressed well enough to get her teenage street cred approval?  

Once, years and years ago, I had a Ukrainian woman named Olga who watched Ava during the day.  I will never forget the day that she said to me, and sadly I don’t even remember the context of what we were talking about, but she said with her thick accent, “yes, you need to look good for Ava.”  I remember at the time thinking, "what the heck is she talking about? Ava is two and I’m not “trying” to look good for anyone let alone my two year old."  Her statement stuck with me all these years though.

I think I get it now though. I think I finally get what she meant, and why people sometimes need to be pushed to make the effort.  She meant  that I would want Ava to look at me and see the person I wanted her to see (and I'm pretty sure that wasn't a haggard 30 year old in sweats.) I think when she said that to me I was still very much in the mindset that I looked how I looked (which I didn’t think was all that bad), but that I didn’t make it habit of “trying” to look better for anyone.  At that stage I feel like I was doing pretty good just putting on clothes in the morning given the fact that I was juggling a toddler, work, and a husband that traveled.  I don't know if I cared if I looked good so much as I cared that I remembered to put pants on.

Maybe it’s just age, but my perspective has changed.  I DO want my kids to think I look good.  I DO want them to remember me as looking nice and dressing cool, hopefully not looking boring and frumpy.  I don’t want my husband, who yes, I know loves me, to not even notice what I look like anymore or what I’m wearing because it’s same-old-same-old and it just fades into the background.

Every once in awhile I’ll put something on and everyone will say, “OH mom, you are dressed up, you look nice where are you going?”  The really sad part is when what I'm wearing is just your average good outfit.   It’s not like I am decked out. It’s not like I bought something SO amazing that actually warranted all those compliments.  It just means I was going thru a super boring stage during which I probably wore the same thing over and over and/or looked so much the same that no one even noticed me anymore.  Then when I did one small thing different, it was BIG.  Sad, but true.  If you wear yoga clothes every day for three month and suddenly one day put on a pretty dress, people go crazy (and no, I didn't do this.)

So this is a reminder that how you dress today, is how someone is going to remember you tomorrow.  That your kids and loved ones adore you no matter what, but it would still be nice to look nice for them too.   If you are in a rut, get out of it.  Believe me, I totally get being in utility mode, which is completely fine, and totally necessary sometimes.  But, equally important, is to shake yourself out of it and feel really good about how you dress.  To feel beautiful and project yourself the way you want to be seen.  I've felt both indifferent about my wardrobe before, AND also have felt really good about it.  It's better to feel really good.

So in case the answer the question, “are you looking good for fall?” is “Eh”, just know that you can kick it up a notch pretty easily.  Yes, first for yourself, but because we don’t live solo on a deserted island (and if we did we’d really not care about kicking it up), it’s also for those people around you that you love.  Your kids, your partner, the person you want to be your partner.  Maybe they want to see your glorious fab self in something beautiful, even if you've forgotten how great it feels!

Signed, ME. {lv}

 

 

More Sleep Please

I'm a little obsessed with sleep right now.  Like crazy obsessed.  That doesn't mean I've actually had a lot, but I think about having a lot ALL the time.  I am reading, Why We Sleep, by Matthew Walker.  It's all about the science of sleep and dreams.  All I can say is you should get it ASAP, and you will be as obsessed as I am in the first 25 pages.

Here's what I'm doing, and this is big for me.  First you have to understand that up until now my sleep ritual was to frantically get the kids to bed, and then do all the necessary chores in a hurry and then get into bed, with my laptop, and my favorite t.v. show.  There I would try to multi-task to fit in all the stuff I needed/wanted to do. My vice is watching  a series/show before I go to bed (Handmaid's Tail, or something in that vein...intense and engaging).   Sometimes I'm solo because John is gone, often he's with me doing the same thing.  I am on my laptop either finishing up some work, or trolling the internet catching up on news, buying groceries etc.  I do both of those things until I'm so tired that I literally fall asleep within minutes of hitting the pillow.  It's a positively UN-SEXY routine, but I won't lie, I love it, it's a hard vice to give up.  I will also note that this is probably the best I've ever been--despite how flawed this routine is, it's been FAR worse.  In the past. I went years with horrible sleep from babies waking up many times a night (and I never bothered to try to nap during the day), and super late nights from too much work.  Basically I was living on adrenal alone and felt confident that I didn't need sleep. Big mistake.

So now?  Well, my goal is to be off electronics entirely by 9:30 p.m., and that includes television shut off.  Then I have the opportunity to read for 30-60 minutes and then "hopefully" be sleeping by 10:30 p.m., which its the time I need to be sleeping in order to give myself the opportunity to sleep 8 hours.  After reading a good chunk of this book I can safely say, it's my number one health mission to sleep 8 hours of quality sleep.   As ambitious as this routine sounds, I'm totally convinced it should be my top priority for my own health (mental and physical.)

I'm also trying to start a nice sleep ritual, which includes showering, my face routine, putting on lovely pj's, using an sleep mask (complete darkness is essential),  and lavender scented sachets to make my linens and pjs smell soothing.  Having a really good sleep ritual helps me mentally start preparing for slowing down and eventual sleep.

I'll tell you right now, my old habits have been hard to break, and I'm not going to claim I"m perfect every night but I'm trying really hard and I can definitely, 100% feel and see the difference when I am in my good sleep routine--I feel SO, so much better.

Which all leads me to eye the new PU Salvage.  I think these new pink pants with stars are so sweet, and I'm going to throw these on with a little white tank, comfy socks and start my pre-bed ritual looking adorable.  In an effort to make sleep my new and beautiful friend, I have totally purged and spiffed up my pajama wardrobe.  Nothing ratty, nothing unattractive, nothing uncomfortable.  I want to feel happy, comfortable, and really good.  Perfect time for PJ Salvage to show up!

Here's to getting more sleep, and looking good doing it.

Signed, ME {lv}

 

Things I Need & Some I Got

I found myself on a quick and rigorous shopping spree this weekend because I had my 30th high school reunion, and despite the fact that I didn't actually buy anything that I WORE to the reunion, I decided that it was a good excuse to buy things I could wear.  Our reunion was at an upscale bowling alley (very marginally upscale--it's still a bowling alley), so it was a low-key event that required casual cool.

First off, the Citizens of Humanity Harlow jean in chit chat wash.  I didn't realize I would love these jeans so much at first glance.  The wash is lighter, there is light distressing, some abrasions (they are like your old favorite jeans that have been thru the ringer), and it's a mid-rise.  I don't often like lighter jeans, I don't often wear jeans in the summer period, and I don't really like mid-rise because they usually are too high for me.  I tried these on though and was instantly converted.  The denim is really lightweight and super soft, and the rise is comfortable, but without feeling too high.  They are fitted, but don't feel sausage tight, and the lighter wash ended up looking great with everything.  I wore these the next night to an evening barbecue on an 88 degree day....the evening was still warm, and I put these jeans on and they didn't feel too heavy, or constricting--which is usually how I think of jeans in the summer.  They were totally comfortable and I cuffed them up and wore them with leather flip flops.  They will be a great jean straight thru fall.  Love them!

Next I bought the Think Royln cross body bag that converts into a fanny pack (it comes with two different straps).  I've been wanting a fanny pack (they were all over Europe, worn slung across the body in the front or back, and I wanted one the whole time.)  These bags are fun and sporty, with a little bit of bling (with the shine and the metallic on some of the bags).  It's super cute on, and I love it with my new jeans and my white button down Velvet shirt, and then just simple slides.

Also love the new Pauline Stanley Studio hair accessories.  It's so hard to find something nice for your hair.  I'm constantly grabbing rubber bangs or those butterfly clips to pull my hair back, but when I saw this little piece of art I got super excited.   What a lovely way to pull back your hair right?  I mean, I love a good scrunchie, who doesn't, but this is just SO much cooler!

Lastly, I haven't bought this yet but I think this MOL poncho is super cool and I want it, it's high up on my list.  What a great piece to throw on over everything, and I love the thermal waffle knit, the kangaroo pocket and hoodie.  It feels like the perfect fall transition piece.  A must have for me.  I'm starting to scope out and stockpile my favorite pieces before they are gone, and this is one of them!

And just in case you are wondering.....

The reunion was weird.  First off, I didn't recognize anyone, except my best friend (who was the one who forced me to go), and maybe 3 other people.  The rest of them were literally unrecognizable.  I was pretty lost in space at 28, so I barely remember my 10 year reunion, I didn't go to my 20 year reunion, so seeing these people was literally seeing people after 30 years, and all I could think of was, "seriously, why does everyone look SO flippin' old".  Then I got really sad/stressed and freaked out by the idea that perhaps people said the same thing about ME.  Horrifying thought.  We stayed an hour and a half and almost the entire hour and a half was hideous small talk.  Note to self, no more high school reunions.  I'm excited that it gave me an excuse to go shopping though.

Signed, ME {lv}

 

Euro Adventure 2019 Day 36 Golden Years, Kid Cause, Lightening & Cutest Villages Ever

I'm moving.  I'm going to live in the Cotswolds, on a big estate of land with fields of wheat, beautiful English gardens, maybe some sheep roaming the hillside.  I'm going to drink afternoon tea, go on long walks, maybe get a small English looking dog, one that doesn't shed and preferably doesn't poop either (ok, I can waiver on the last requirement), I'm also going to read all the classics that I didn't read, and then the ones I did,  again.  I'm going to garden, read, write, cook, paint, ride horses, get a Peloton to stay fit when the weather sucks, and maybe I'll get my masters online.  Not sure when I'm doing that, but it's now on my bucket list.  

On our way to our van this morning a man outside his house (where we were parked in front)  made a comment to John about how big the van was.  John replied, 'yeah, well, we've got four kids so we need a big van."  The man's reply, with a big smile, was, "you figured out what's causing all those kids yet?"   I thought that was pretty cute. 

We visited two villages today,  Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold.  Both within 30 minutes from us in the same direction.  It's too much adorableness for one day.  One darling cottage after another, just like out of a movie.  The villages were busier, but not insane, but I will note that the average age of people seemed to hover around 70'ish.  Every other car is luxury or a cool old Defender, so I'm thinking that it's just an affluent area that attracts older people who can live the country lifestyle at the price range that comes with the Cotswolds.  Everyone seems incredibly friendly though, it's been super pleasant to be in a country where people actually don't seem to resent you being there.  It's not that the French, Spanish or Portuguese were unfriendly, they weren't, but sometimes you could feel this veiled "tolerance" to our presence, our ignorance in their country, our lack of language.  Being in England feels like coming home, but totally different at the same time.

We just spent the day walking around both towns, investigating old bookstores (there are a lot of bookstores), and sweet little Tea Houses (ton of those too.)  Things seem more affordable than France for sure, groceries, restaurants etc.  Groceries for example are less expensive here than in the U.S.

We ate a long lunch outside, and then bought more groceries for dinner.  The house is an easy place to come back to in the late afternoon to relax.  There is plenty of shade in the backyard and it's nice enough that you want to be there to relax.  It's much hotter than normal here, and the temp was in the high 80's today, but tomorrow is suppose to only be 77 degrees (which I think is more average for the area.)  Per John, who is trying to ground my new love for the place, explained to me that it gets less sun hours per year than where we are in Oregon, approximately 1500 and we get 1900.  Provence was up at like 2700 or something like that.  It rains here frequently, hence the lushness, and the temps are generally cooler in the summer.  That's fine by me to be honest, I"m not a huge hot weather fan.  A handful of 90 degree days is enough for me, the rest can be a nice mellow 78.  I've never been here in the dreary winter, but being tucked away in a beautiful stone house with fireplaces in every room sounds pretty cozy.

We took a long walk in the evening and got caught in a little rain shower, but walking in the country was just perfect (once we got off the narrow and dangerous road.)  The hills were full of sheep and goats, everything lush and green, the air felt clean and smelled like warm hay.  Later in the evening, around midnight there was a huge thunderstorm that sprang up.  The violent and sudden onset was intense, and the thunder and lightening were something amazing to watch.   It's unlike what we have in the NW, more much. intense.  The littles woke up, and we all had trouble sleeping during it because the rain was beating down so hard, the thunder cracked and the sky kept flashing big blue bolts of light.  It seemed to be a personification of the edginess that the countryside has, which contrasts to it's visual gentleness.  It has this almost mournful undercurrent to it, coupled with the pedigree and manicured wild. There is a broodiness just under the surface that you feel more when the weather darkens and the skies open up, like it might lull you to sleep and then swallow you whole.  I like that contrast. 

Ava has somehow managed to maneuver going to London tomorrow morning via a train, to meet another school friend and spend the next two nights with her (until we arrive on Friday.)  The country is too mellow for her, she doesn't have a lower energy setting.  

Signed, ME {lv}

Women Helping Women 2019

First off, that's darling Amanda to the left.  I wasn't in their WHW photoshoot, so I'm using her pic.  I will note that she is annoyingly photogenic, and if you tell her that she'll say, "it was a good hair day", but she ALWAYS has a good hair day.  Super irritating.

It's my favorite event of the year, and every year I say that because every year it's true!  We've done this event for almost 20 years.  The idea is simple. The whole thing is centered around reminding people to go thru their closets, clean them out (it's Spring, so it seems fitting), and donate to a local women's shelter.  Here in Oregon, that's Women's Space Center For Domestic Violence, but no matter where you are, most communities have something similar.  

We forget.  It's that simple.  Most of us unwittingly live in our bubbles, where we just don't always see the need first hand.  Unless you put yourself out there to volunteer, or your profession takes you face to face with it, it's possible to be like me, totally cushioned, for the most part, from reality.  I need an active reminder to take what I don't use, or don't need, to someone that does need it.  Women's shelters are specifically designed to assist women out of violent, and desperate situations of all kinds.  Very often children are involved in the immediate impact of what's happening to these women.  They need support, they need assistance, and a chance to get back on their feet.  Some of them have left their homes under emergent situations, with nothing but the clothes on their back, and they are starting again.  I'm pretty sure the top I've worn once in 5 years can be better served going to someone that will wear it right now, who needs it right now.

I'm only speaking personally, but here's what I know.  I feel incredibly blessed, and I have such deep appreciation for all that I have.  That being said, I don't always do as much as I can or should for those less fortunate.  Part of it is that I simply use the excuse that I get too busy, but really I get too focused on my own world, which as I've noted above, is a bubble. I've always felt this internal struggle, between enjoying what I have, and feeling guilty for what other people don't have.  So most often I ignore the internal struggle so I don't feel bad or guilty.  It makes no sense because it's healthy to enjoy what you have, and it's also simultaneously important to help those in need, and give what you can, and those things should co-exist.  So I do enjoy buying new clothes, it's fun, I love clothing and the expression and feeling you get from wearing nice clothing.  I want to embrace that joy.  I also want to freely let go of what I don't use or need, and allow it to serve a purpose.  I don't want to forget how deep the need is out there, and that I can, and should, do something to contribute towards the relief of that need.  It is an area of my life that I know I fall very short, my service to those in need in my community.  I use the "I'm busy" excuse, but I recognize that it's just an excuse.  I know I should also be giving time, and service, but at least I can give something physically useful today.  This event is a small thing, it takes very little effort, or time.  Clean out your closet, or even just grab one thing you know you have hanging but that you really won't wear (or secretly hate just. because your mother-in-law gave it to you) and donate it today.  

In appreciate and thanks, take 25% off any purchase with code: WHW2019.  Enjoy fully, give freely.

Signed, ME {lv}

 

Nov 30th: Saying Goodbye to Gratitude Month, Finished Projects and the Unexpected

First off, before anything else....my dining room is officially wallpapered and done.  I snapped a little pic of a corner.  That was a project that took MONTHS to complete (from finding a painter and then a wallpaper guy, then picking paint and wallpaper....it was a part time job.). I'm excited to actually have it DONE--finished projects are something to love!  I always want to point out the picture to the right, which is Romeos indoor mud racetrack which I had to move out from under the table in the left hand picture.  What you are looking at is an 8 year old's rainy day imagination.  A box, covered in a trash bag, with dirt dumped into it, and his favorite cars and trucks (so many that it's hard to see the dirt).  Indoor dirt track. My house is filled with un-photogenic landmines like that, aka real life.

Second, I went to a yoga class today, and was all set to take one of my favorite teacher's class.  I walk in, and it's a sub.  OK, I roll with it....even though lets face it, when you expect one thing and then get another, it always throws you off.  Then the class began.  All I can say is that it was just all together the weirdest class I've ever taken, BUT it was also unexpectedly great.  Weird how you ask?  Well, first the music was weird.  One minute a low techno beat, then next. some kind of circus sounding melody.  It was quiet so it wasn't disruptive, just really odd. The teacher herself was somber, and looked a little unhappy.  Think sulky teen, but she was definitely not a teen.  I got past that initial impression, and then became focused on her sequence, which was just this bizarre combination of moves.  I don't want to get all yoga technical, but let's just suffice it to say that sequences tend to have a pattern, and you might see apple, orange, banana, watermelon....but you don't see apple, orange, beef brisket, carrot, lemon, chicken pot pie.  It was that odd.

I will say this though, the unexpected can bring really amazing things.  She was. one of the few teachers that actually has ever given me an adjustment in form.  Because I mostly know what I'm doing and I'm not making a gross error, the fine details aren't necessarily caught by teachers, especially during fast flow classes.  She gave me a very small correction, but really important one and it was totally out of the blue and I literally thought, "wow, no one has ever said that before and it does make perfect sense."

So here is final yoga wisdom for November....be grateful for the unexpected, the weird, the oddities.  They bring with them an opportunity for growth, stimulation and a new perspective.  

It's been so fun for us to share this month with everyone.  Our daily emails, blogs, and bits of fun have made us focus on things that we felt like were important, and it made the month special for us, so we hope that radiated out a little and others felt the same.  November is one of our favorite months, and not just because it's our anniversary. month, but because it's the perfect month to just dive into being grateful and present.  Thank you for sharing that with us!

We all felt like November was gone in a FLASH (time flies when you're having fun), so we thought it would be fun to have a flash sale today.  Take 30% off anything your heart desires with code:  FLASH.

See you in December, where I hope we find many unexpected joys together!

Signed, ME {lv}

November 24th: Megababe, Self Kindness, and Small Businesses

It’s small business Saturday, which to us small businesses, is a super BIG deal.  It’s a day to appreciate why we shop small businesses, and why we, as the small business, are so grateful for YOU.  We are surrounded by huge corporations, and big business. I have nothing against the ease or bounty of these—I get it, I really do, they offer things a small business often can't.  What’s missing though, is knowing the person you are buying from, you knowing them, or them knowing you.  It makes your purchase just another transaction that is sterile, and devoid of connection. I know that through the years it’s become more and more important to me to make choices in where I shop, the designers we carry, the things I personally buy…I want to care about them, and have them care about me.  I truly feel like every vendor we carry I personally know, support, and respect. I feel like they do the same, and we have each other’s backs.  What comes with a heightened relationship like that is a history that means something. We’ve had customers that have shopped with us for 15+ years and that’s a wonderful feeling for us, and we hope as the customer of our small business, you know the value that your loyalty and friendship thru the years has made.  Where you shop matters.  You matter to us, and not just because we are. doing a business transaction, but because we care about the people we are working with.  We love knowing what they do, what they love, how many kids they have, what they did on the weekend, and all the other things that a community comes to know about its members.  

That’s a long way of saying, on this small business weekend celebration, we hope you know how much you mean to us.  We are very proud of our business and the blood, sweat and tears we’ve poured into it, and we are honored that you have supported us thru the years as we’ve lived our dream.

In other stuff…. I took a yoga class on Friday and I will just say, it was the perfect example of WHY I love yoga so much and talk about it obsessively.  Definitely more than I talk about clothes, but beautiful clothing is what I wear to express my happiness and creativity…. but my happiness and creativity is fueled in part by yoga, hence why it often gets more talking points than the actual clothing we sell.  Anyway, I’ve taken many exercise classes thru the years on the days following Thanksgiving that were themed on, “you indulged too much and now we are going to punish you and make you repent.”  That was the vibe, and usually people skulked into class in all black to hide their turkey/mash potato / pumpkin pie babies, and felt guilty and inadequate the whole time while sweating it out to the shame based, “it’s time to pay the piper” drill.

Not yoga though…. instead I walked in and the first thing the instructor said is “this class isn’t about punishing your indulges away, it’s about celebrating your awesomeness and nourishing your greatness.  What a nice concept.  So, I changed the dialogue in my head, and it went like this, “good morning my glorious-self…. today I’m going to be kind and loving to your wonderful body, and I’m going to feed you good food all day, and take care of you, and most of all, be grateful for every day you carry my spirit.”  That’s a whole lot of love and kindness toward yourself, and you deserve it.  Guilt, abstaining, penance, shame…. all not good for the spirit.

On a totally OTHER note, my mat was next to “guy x” (have no idea what his name is but over time I’ve come to take some classes with him here and there and he’s totally thoroughly, 100% distracting to me.)  There are no mirrors in class, so everyone tends to be in their own zone, and you might only notice when someone does something really out of the box….but if they are in your peripheral vision, you might notice more.  He was.  First off, he NEVER follows anything that the instructor is actually telling us to do.  He either does everything 10x slower, or he’ll amps it up 10x faster.  He also smells…and not good.  At all. It’s been a long time since I’ve been in class with him and the lighting was dim when I walked in so I unsuspectingly was to his left.  But his rank odor isn't important, what is important is it made me think of one of my random favorite things:  Megababe deodorant.  It’s all natural, with none of the stuff that is going to give you Alzheimer and all the other bad stuff in regular deodorant, plus it smells good (but it does have a very distinct smell—kind of like Old Spice, but for girls, so if you like neutral deodorant Megababe isn't your bag.)  I like the smell, and most importantly, it works pretty darn well.  It’s got a lot of buzz around it, google it, it’ll make you want to try it!

Signed, ME {lv}

Nov.19th: Pumpkin Marshmellow Bath Bombs, Attitude of Gratitude and Monday

It's Monday....which means we are just days away from my favorite holiday of the year!  Our call to action is to start out the week with an "attitude of gratitude" which is yes, a bit on the self-help-book-loving-annoying-bumper-sticker-phrase-side-of-life, but darn if it doesn't just sum it all up so well.  There are a million things to do before Thursday, but I am starting it all out with a deep breath, and a super appreciative and grateful attitude.  Plus I'm repeating the mantra from yoga yesterday,  "All that is, is.  Everything else isn't."  I think that was the gist of it--and I think Buddha was given credit for the saying.  Anyway, the upshot is that you've got to accept what is, instead of spending energy on what isn't, and then you can really embrace the moment and let go of everything else.  I need constant reminders, or I get lost in the crazy of this time of year.  There are so many demands, expectations and general activity that your mind can get away from you.

Random things to love today are the super adorable pumpkin marshmallow latte bath bombs that I bought for the kid's table (at Paper Source.)  I know it sounds just a little gross actually, but I think the kids will like the smell and I thought they would be cute as little gifts (I also bought turkey straws....now what kid wouldn't want to drink out of a turkey straw?)  I would set up the Thanksgiving table today if John wouldn't make fun of me relentlessly for needing 3 days to stage a table.  I probably don't need that much time, but I'm excited.

The other good news is that we extended the Eileen Fisher event one last day, because the weekend went by in the blink of an  eye and who really had time to do everything they wanted to?  Now there's still time to snatch up the velvet haze EF classic collar shirt....I'm in love!

Signed, ME {lv}

#3 Weekend in November: Notes, The Written Word, and the Feeling Fabrics

Our random thing to love this weekend is the written note.  It was inspired initially by Romeo’s love letter that rocked his world. The cutest thing in the world, a little girl in his class wrote him what he described as a “love letter.” He keeps it carefully folded up in his room, and treats it with all the reverence that it deserves. That only happens in 2^ndgrade. If he was in 8^th grade he might get a text that said, “Yo, what's up, want to hang?”  Sad, but true. We are now a society of texts, emails, emoji symbols and images & words that disappear (Snapchat I'm looking at you).  I still hold on to special cards from John from when we first met, and international correspondence with dear friends that 30 years later I still have.  Although infrequent, I have loved flipping thru them at different points, the feel of the paper, reading the words again....there's something so lasting about the words put down on paper.  

It’s nice to take a moment to remember the beauty and impact of a written note.  I found these darling cards today and bought them for my Thanksgiving table…both as name cards and for each guest to write something they are thankful for on a card. Our call to action this weekend is to leave someone a note, or send them a note—just take a moment to write something nice down, with an actual pen, on actual paper, and give it to someone.  Putting it down on paper makes it extra special.  

We got in a big shipment of Eileen Fisher on Friday and the fabrics are amazing….the kind you want to reach out and feel. Some of it is the tactile nature of the knit, and some of it is the color.  There are some fantastic pieces in this group, especially nice foundational styles, and all of them I want to reach out and touch...and then snuggle into. I can't wait to get my head into this cutie beanie below---with the number of bad hair days I have during the rainy season, this will be well used! 

 

This is our last weekend before Thanksgiving, so I’m sure we’re all going to be running around getting organized.  Make sure to
find a moment to bask in your brilliance, which was a phrase thrown out in my last yoga class. "Take a moment to just bask in your own brilliance" was the directive right before Savasana. It’s ok, it’s good to give yourself some emotional nourishment, because you are in fact, brilliant. Note the sign to the left which was in my favorite health food café, where the food is ungodly expensive but so good I can almost ignore the prices.  “I am nourished.”  Love that. Nourishment comes in all forms, give yourself some this weekend.

Signed, ME {lv}

Euro Trip 2018 – Day 44: Planes, Instacart and Glass 2/3 Full

Really, this is a recap of day 44 AND 45.  Got to love a two day travel schedule.  Since I’m a “glass 2/3 way full” kind of gal (actually, that’s questionable, but I will be one right now), there was some great things that came out of today.  One, I spent a full hour in flight fine tuning my grocery delivery orders.  I’m trying to fashion it so that I have the least amount of work to do in order to eat. This is mostly because we are returning to a house full of boxes, since we moved only a few days before we left. I think I unpacked some clothing before we left, but it’s really all a blur. 

We managed to get out of Venice after a long walk from our flat to where they allow cars to come (we hired a van to drive us to the airport, but short of a rickshaw showing up, we were going to have to walk with our luggage ourselves to get to the car). Ava had to stop several times because she was “almost passing out.”  Which translates to “I didn’t eat anything this morning, it’s 90 degrees outside, and I only slept 5 hours because I’m under some crazy assumption that it will help with future jet lag”.

We did get out of Venice  though, with all of our luggage checked, and snake cage on board.  So that was all very exciting.  The plane was ancient, so half the bathrooms stopped working sometime early on and my TV didn’t work.  Luckily only mine, if it was one of the kids—oh boy, bad news.  They all have Ipads but you’d think the in-flight movies were a necessity by their reaction to even the possibility of not having them.

So instead of watching movies, I read recipes (time to go back on my healthy anti-inflammatory diet…the new Amy Myer’s cookbook is really good, it won’t be hard), and I ordered groceries.   I have left behind my sadness that our trip is over, and I’m super excited to: 1) eat certain foods, and to KNOW what I’m eating (those eastern Europe labels especially…I could have been eating dog food, I couldn’t read a thing.)  2) Our house, we’re all excited for our new house which I LOVE and even though it’s going to be a zoo navigating boxes and all that there is to do, I don’t care, the house is amazing.  3)  Go to yoga. I really miss it.  Badly.  I did pretty good for about ½ the trip with keeping it up, but it got harder as we walked more (really hard to take a real yoga  class plus walk 12 miles), and some of our apartments just didn’t really have a great place to do it, which is mostly a cop out, but also true.  Terrace yoga is inspiring.  Hallway yoga, not so much. 

It also goes without saying that I’m excited to see my friends and family.

We got to Philadelphia, then made it all the way to Las Vegas, and as we are walking to baggage claim when all  of a sudden John says, “do we pick of our luggage, or do you think it goes straight thru?”  We were spending the night in Las Vegas so we just assumed we got our luggage—not a great assumption.  The baggage was checked thru so that meant we slept in our clothes, and didn’t brush our teeth.  We were also so tired we ate a gourmet dinner at 7/11 because that was the only place nearby. Gross all around. You just can’t feel good about your kids eating Doritos and Kraft mac & cheese.

We woke up, barely made it to the airport (Ava & Lucia were MIA for the shuttle call, so John had to wait with them and take an Uber while the little kids and I took the shuttle and went to the airport to check us in.. Irritation at 4:30 a.m.

Romeo and Gia both spilled their orange juice on the flight to Oregon, but other than that, it was an uneventful two hours, and a smooth ride home.  Back to real life. Responsibilities and stuff to do.  Big sigh…..

Signed, ME {lv}

Euro Trip 2018 – Day 25: Longest Drive In The World, Mad Max, Fancy McDonalds, & Portuguese Wine

O.K., I fully admit that whatever map I was using to map out distances between cities was super wacked. Everything has been WAY longer than anticipated.  Today though, really topped all other messed up google maps experiences. 

We left at around 11:00 after John made haferflocken (oatmeal) and used the word “haferflocken” no less than 50 times.  It’s the one German word he can say clearly.  He and Romeo loooooovvvvvve that word and they ate outside on the terrace in the pretty sunshine asking each other repeatedly, “how’s the  haferflocken?”  We then packed, tidied up, loaded the car, and said goodbye to Vienna.

We figured it was around almost a 4 hour drive, and GPS in the car said about that. All I know is that it was NOT 4 hours.  We were in the car until 5:56 p.m.  That’s right, 7 hours. It was literally the LONGEST drive on the longest, most boring, road EVER.   Actually, it was pretty leaving Austria, with lush green next to golden wheat fields and yellow sunflower fields.  At some point it got not as pretty though.

We only stopped two times. Once at a gas station that looked good from the roadside and John was convinced it might be like the Croatian gas stations where you could really get a ton of  different things including lunch (not a lunch I would eat, but one he would eat.)  Nope, this gas station was NOT that.  We were in the middle of the sticks, someplace in the Czech Republic, and I kid you not, everywhere I looked it was like Max Max Thunderdome.  Apparently, the hair style du jour here is to shave the sides of your head and leave long hair in the middle, OR shaved on one side of the head completely, and long on the other.  All black attire was a common theme, serious tattoos, and I saw some guy walk into the gas station in all black, with the shaved hair-cut, and no shoes. No. Shoes. At. All.  His feet were blackened and burly, like this wasn’t his first “no shoes” experience. Definitely got the feeling that they didn’t see Americans often, and it was clear no one spoke English.  Mind you, this is someplace deep in the countryside, somewhere between Vienna and Kraków….I could not tell you where because I had been sleeping for at least an hour when we stopped-lucky me.

So, we left the gas station, and Lucia, who was starving, googles McDonald’s and finds one 8 minutes away.  The golden arches really are everywhere.  So we drive there, and along with McDonald’s there is a Kentucky Fried Chicken.  When’s the last time you’ve seen one of those? They aren’t around much in Oregon, I know that much, or California.  They ARE however, very much around Eastern Europe.  Go figure.  We pull up and John says “ooohhhhh, a fancy McDonald’s, maybe it’s nicer than normal.” His leap of logic was that the relatively pretty ivy on the McDonald’s-adjacent building meant it was ‘up scale.’  It wasn’t.  Although, to be fair, I did get a fairly decent salad….with olive oil and balsamic packets (actual packets of each)  to dress it.  That actually MIGHT make it a fancy McDonald’s, so I take my comments back.

So, after that we drove…and we drove…and we drove.  I thought I might go crazy and then we spent an hour trying to remember why we took this detour to Kraków to begin with.  We had wanted to go to Auschwitz and the Salt Mines, but have since had serious second thoughts about Auschwitz due to the fact we have a 7 and 10 year old.  Something that one would think perhaps we’d have analyzed BEFORE, but we didn’t.  I wanted to take Ava and Lucia, but logistically we are trying to figure out if that’s reasonable given we probably shouldn’t take the younger two (the website for the museum actually says, ‘not appropriate for kids  under 14.’)    I guess I thought I might be able to control the amount of content Romeo and Gia got so that they could assimilate it constructively, but I’m doubting that’s possible now.  Anyway, we had this long back and forth dialogue on what the hell we were doing driving 7 hours all the way to Poland, and then turning around and driving 5.5 hours on Monday back toward Prague.  There was a lot of complaining about the fact the EN-tire day was spent in the car.

BUT…here’s the really cool thing.  We finally got here, and this city is AMAZING.  I love it!! We are staying in this fantastic apartment right near the center square (5 minute walk).  We got settled which was easy, parked right around the corner for free, and then walked to the center square.  It’s incredibly beautiful, it’s sort of dark and light at the same time which gives it an intensity and realness, and there are churches everywhere.  The square was brimming with musicians, a huge art fair, flowers, food….restaurants.  It feels vibrant and alive, and there was art and food everywhere you looked.  I’m sure it was touristy, but it didn’t feel that way.  We ate street vendor food at the food/art fair which was delicious.  I bought a Portuguese bottle of wine from a Portuguese couple at the fair, and we drank wine, ate veggies, potatoes, sausage and ribs, and listened to really good live music.  I loved it, and I’m so glad we survived the longest drive in the world to come here.  I’ve seen tons of art I want and I can’t wait to browse around tomorrow and explore.  I am already completely into this city!   

Signed, ME {lv}

Euro Trip 2018 -- Day 5: Water Falls, Speedos and Swans

Every day starts out better when you get some rest, and I did pretty well last night so it was easier to kick off the day with a better attitude than yesterday.  Insert big sigh of relief here.  Today we drove to KrKa National Park which was about an hour and fifteen minute drive.  Apparently the water falls at the park are the top Instagrammed place in Croatia. 

The actual falls within the park you can reach either by ferry, or by walking.  The ferry line was crazy long, so we decided to walk.  It was about 4 km, which roughly translates to 37 miles.  Not really, but you would have thought from the level of complaining and dragging in our party.  To be fair, I was dragging too because it was HOT, and the mid-day sun was brutal.  Plus I had eaten salami and potato chips on the way there and my fingers were literally swollen up like little sausages from all the salt.  They were no longer bending at the knuckles.

We had this quiet perception from the walk, which was relatively deserted, a few people here and there but nothing crazy….there were long stretches of the road when it was just us walking.   When we finally arrived it was like bursting into the craziest, busiest scene.  The falls are gorgeous, the water an amazing light emerald color, with much of it clear with beautiful pillowy shaped rocks below.   The mobs of people?  Seriously less gorgeous.  I think it’s possible there were actually more pounds of people than water—and I am only exaggerating a little.  I cropped the picture so that you couldn’t see the throngs of people.

The kids all swam, or rather, waded around trying to find water, and I guarded our stuff while perched on a tee branch to avoid sitting in the actual dirt.  Mad. Scene.   I people watched for a solid 45 minutes and here were some observations.  The abundance of selfie-sticks have greatly reduced, which is wonderful, but I still saw some and it’s embarrassing.  There were however, an over-abundance of painful looking shortie shorts that I seriously thought might be causing vaginal injury.  I’m sorry, but that just can’t be comfortable or good for the nether regions.  The tiny speedo situation?  Very abundant, and positively scary on 99% of the men I saw….actually, take that back, 100% is more accurate.  This was no svelte crowd.

All that being said, the walk was lovely even if it was smokin’ hot.  The car ride there and back was peaceful (enough), and the little town near the park was quaint and not nearly as crowded as you’d think….we did a stroll thru toward the end of the day.   We ran into a beautiful swan at the water’s edge that decided to try and attack Lucia’s foot.  I grabbed a picture of her holiness BEFORE the rabid attack. 

 I think the problem is the same that I always have when we travel…I hate lines and crowds.  I’d avoid them entirely if possible.  Venice? Florence?  Lovely places, but they would have been 1000x lovelier without the throngs of people.  I can’t wait to go back to Venice in October….July is insanity.  What can you do though, got to travel on the kids’ summer schedule.    

We did a quick stop at the beach after we got home, and the kids got a little more water time.  Tomorrow we’ll head toward Split and I’m kind of ready. The area has grown on me a little more today, but I still think there is more of Croatia to love somewhere else.

Signed, ME {lv}

Euro Trip 2018 -- Day 2: Starvation, Dirty Clothes, Naked Salad & Good Books

Expectations for day #2 of any trip involving a big time difference, is always pretty low for me. Jet lag, generally speaking, KILLS me, and it’s never smooth sailing.  The kids are all over the map, they sometimes can sail thru, and other times they have weird fits as a reaction to the fatigue feeling.  I had a very spotty sleep last night, so there wasn’t much of a catch up from the previous night without any sleep.  Then we had a 5.5 hour drive to Vir, Croatia from Venice.

The food so far….well, let’s just say, if it were to continue at this rate I’d be 23 lbs by the time our trip came to an end.  I’m sure it won’t, I’m just sayin’.   We ate breakfast at the Hilton—a not-so-glorious buffet (because really, I’m not convinced any buffet could be glorious because I’m just generally against them).  I skipped it entirely because other than the apple they brought me back, I don’t know there was much I wanted to (or could) eat. I know, I know…I realize it’s only because I have all these annoying dietary restrictions, but I know what I need to stay feeling good, and it includes no dairy, no wheat, and no refined sugar.  I’m annoyed just typing that out, but what can I do?  My body was breaking down on that cocktail.

In preparation for this trip we were really worried that the car would be super tiny.  Every time we’ve been to Europe we rent the biggest car, and spent the entire time sardined in because their version of big, is half of the size of ours.  We had luggage on the roof last time, no joke.  So this time we decided we’d be smart and we’d each pack only an airplane sized suitcase carry on for each person.  For 7 weeks, that’s seriously NOT much.  PLUS, I had to carry extra crap in my suitcase that didn’t even qualify as “me” stuff.  Example: my end-of-days emergency medicine kit put together by my brother in law (who is a doctor and closet survivalist---well, I exaggerate, but he gets excited like I do about being prepared for anything...apocalypse here we come).  So not only can I treat an allergic reaction with an Epi pen, I am fully equipped to deal with everything from a bladder infection to malaria.  No joke.  I'm just waiting for the day I can give an emergency tracheotomy because I'm ready for that too. That took up a good size square of my limited space.  So the upshot of that is that I have VERY little clothing.  Like nothing.  Three pairs of pants, two shorts, two long sleeves…..you get the idea.   The irony?  John goes to pick up the car and it’s HUGE….like small bus size.  I could have taken a MUCH bigger suitcase, dang.  There’s a good chance we won’t be able to fit down half the narrow streets in Eastern Europe, that could be an issue.

So our drive was uneventful, and most of us slept thru chunks of it, sprawled out in our spacious ride.  We breezed thru Slovenia, into Croatia, and I caught some of the gorgeous countryside, but the rest of the time I crashed.  The northern most tip of Croatia looked a lot like Oregon….pine trees and green mountains.   We’re on a tiny island called Vir right now, which has the beautiful waters you’d expect, but so far the beaches are nothing to get too excited about (rocky and short). We definitely have to search out the good ones.

We ate dinner along the ocean, and I ordered a green salad thinking ok, that’s something I can eat plus it’s healthy and fresh.  Well, it was a completely naked salad.  No joke. Just lettuce, N-O-T-H-I-N-G else. They took the green part really literally and apparently couldn’t find ANY other green veggies.   Ava asked if I had an eating disorder.  I had about a pound of dry salami when I got home because I might not eat gluten, but I definitely eat salami (nitrates and all).

Our little house is darling, just the perfect size for us.  The only thing lacking—which is actually a BIG thing—is a washer and dryer. There was only one request I had for every home we stayed at, and that was to have a washer and dryer.   We’ve already got at least one load of dirty clothes and it’s only been 2 days.  John was in charge of this particular rental (he was the big Croatia enthusiast)….so I’m blaming him.  My irritation will grow with each day of dirty laundry.

Tomorrow I’m going to head into Zadar and try to scope out a yoga studio to take a class.  The weather might be a little overcast, so our plan is to explore Zadar a bit instead of going to the beach since it might rain anyway. I’m going to search for decent food too….decent food and yoga, is that too much to ask people??

Lastly, I’m super excited about my new book….The Buried Giant by Kazuo Ishiguro.  Wasn’t necessarily moved by the description of the book itself, but it won a Nobel Prize and had a long list of people singing it’s praises so I bought it and it’s pulling me in quick...it's going to be great!!  

Signed, ME {lv}

Euro Trip 2018--Day 1: Chicken Nuggets, All Nighters and Venice

Our adventure starts. Really, our adventure started a week ago, when I finished my yoga program, and then 3 days later we moved from our rental house into a house we bought.  While in my yoga bubble I tried to totally ignore the reality of another move (I’m not counting, but this is the 5^thmove in 7 years….that sounds patently unstable doesn’t it?)   I'm officially sick of moving.

We managed to do it all though; pack, organize separate suitcases for the trip, finalize things with the new house and get basic things in the new house set up (like internet, a security system etc.)  It was a mad rush.  I think coming off the yoga train I was especially chill….so I let a lot of things go, and didn’t let them wear on me.  Example.  Ava didn’t pack her suitcase until the night before we left.  Literally.  Two nights before we left she had 6 friends spend the night in our new house, among the chaos and take out food boxes.  She dug thru boxes of stuff she’d packed to put together god knows what to finally pack for this trip.  As a side note I think I heard her asking if I had extra underwear from the other hotel room a few mins ago…but I’m totally ignoring that.  Oh, and she apparently didn’t bring a toothbrush.  Is that important?

But I digress.  The point is, I let most things roll off my back, including the total chaos that we left behind….box after box, after box—a virtual sea of boxes.  It’s the kind of thing that two years would have sent me over the edge and driven me to stay up all night and unpack like a maniac.  Not this time.  What’s even cooler is that I actually made it to 4 yoga classes last week—I treated it as “medicinal” and necessary. 

We were scheduled to take a 7 a.m. flight on Monday morning, but then got an email late on Sunday night saying that the flight was delayed until 10:30 a.m.  Then got up to get on that flight at 6:00 a.m., only to find another email saying that the flight was cancelled, and we were rebooked on an Amsterdam flight at 1:30 p.m., with a 6 hour layover before a flight to Venice  (which basically means you spend the entire night in the airport—definitely not a sleep friendly situation.)   We managed to all get into the über, with all of the stuff we were bringing (such as it was).  Ava & Lucia were dressed like two college students after a week long bender in Ibiza.  For the record, I said nothing.   Well, truthfully not nothing, but I tried harder than normal.

John parted ways in Amsterdam so he could fly straight to Milan to pick up the rental car (we could only pick it up here because we are visiting a big list of countries and most of the rental agencies block one or some of the countries—the one out of Milan didn’t). So it was me and the kiddos for 6 hours, trying to hold it together thru those wee hours of the morning when you feel like all you want to do is pass out. The Amsterdam airport's equivalent of a “food court” had a glorious café with farm fresh vegan friendly, and gluten free friendly foods. Fresh juices, and green smoothies galore….basically my favorite kind of place to eat.  The older girls got some sort of baguette sandwiches at another restaurant, Romeo wanted nothing but a smoothie, and Gia….well, she declared she’d have chicken nuggets.  Gross, I know.  Wouldn’t you know it, next to my beautiful health café was a Burger King polluting the space.  Not only that, but the line took no less than 30 mins to get the dried up "maybe-chicken-nuggets" order — it was the most packed place in the whole court.  But I did it, because one of the rules of traveling is to stave off fatigue and hunger with the kids at all costs—those two things are a buzz kill to sanity for sure.  You can see the pic below...side by side, BK, and the healthy cafe-- ironically with a sign above their drink cooler than said "the future of fast food".   Here's to hoping.

So, now we are at the Hilton near the Venice airport, John’s arrived with our rental car and all that’s left is getting a great night’s sleep so we are ready for our drive to Vir, Croatia tomorrow.  Let the party begin…..

Yoga....Day 37-50??

Once again, I've managed to lose track of where I am in this program.  I know that my final is June 11th, and I think the program was something like 68 days long.  I'm on the home stretch, and I almost can't believe it.  It will be sad to finish, it's been life changing for sure.  John asked me a few days ago if I was excited to have my weekends back, but truthfully, not really.  I do miss time with my family on the weekends of course, but I've never felt burdened by this program.  

A big take away for me has been just the simple recognition that working on yourself, as a person, is a constant practice, and you HAVE TO make time for it.  If it's one thing I've realized during all of this yoga philosophy study, is that I've got work to do, and I owe it to myself and everyone around me to do it.  My other big take away, is that doing stuff that is scary and out of your comfort zone is AWESOME.  It's scary, and stressful, and uncomfortable....but totally invigorating.

So now, for the next week, I'm immersing myself into practicing for my class.   I have my play list done, and I think it's pretty good.  I'm not 100% committed to every song, but I'm almost ready to say "it's good enough and it's time to stop obsessing".   I'm teaching a power flow class, so hopefully the songs will synch up with that.  Here you go....I'm sharing it below!   

Signed, ME {lv}

My Diggity.....

My sister sent this to me this morning and it made me laugh--is anyone feeling low on their diggity level?!!  What does have diggity?  These new COH jeans which I wore a couple of nights ago and LOVE.  They are the tried and true Rocket fit (med rise, slim fit), but with this super cool frayed and "chewed" hemline the makes you feel just a wee bit edgy.  It also has some distressing which is cool (look at the model's upper thigh)--these are my new favorite white jean for sure.  I'm adding a close up of the hemline since the model pic doesn't really show the detail!!

 

 

Giant Denim Poncho?

 

I woke up this morning, all fired up and ready for action because it's #1 Friday, #2 I have to make lunches (2 of them to be exact) and get 4 kids out the door and hopefully on time.  There's no messing about really, it's go time...distractions are my enemy.  Buuuuutttttt.......as I was moving around the kitchen I happen to glance at the Amazon Alexa thingy, and there was a news headline that said "Lenny Kravitz sports a giant denim poncho."  What the what?  THAT caught my attention because, well, the obvious....Lenny Kravitz is awesome and always has been, and we're talking about a giant denim poncho.  My curiosity was killing me.

So I detoured to do a quick google search.  Yep, he did in fact use his coolness to sport a giant denim poncho.  I don't recommend this for the average person, but he was definitely killin' it.  The rest of us can turn toward something a bit more manageable....like Margaret's ruffle  poncho in a demure ivory.   You can wear it and make the peace sign.

Back to unloading the dishwasher....

Signed, ME {lv}

 

 

 

Yoga.....Day 6

I'm not a Facebook person....at all.  I mean, really not a Facebook person.  Just never learned how to use it very well, don't have a profile picture, never check it, don't know my password.  We have a Melange Facebook page--run entirely by Diane, because left to me, it would be...uhm, not there.  Just couldn't add one more thing to my platform of info, so I didn't...and never got convinced that I was missing out.  UNTIL NOW.  My yoga training group has a Facebook page--and guess what I did?  I changed my ways, figured out my password, and joined the group.  I still can't figure out how to actually post anything on it (although, since I don't have anything to post, it seems less pressing an issue).  Still, I'm very proud of myself for busting out of my norm.  I am officially the LAST person in the world to get on Facebook, but now I'm on.

I almost didn't make it to class today.  I felt a sense of pressure though, which is new.  Truthfully I use to go to yoga 4 times a week in general....sometimes even 5 if it was a particularly smooth week.  BUT...now that it's a "requirement" that I go 5 days a week, I find myself worrying that I'm not going to get all my classes in--stressing seems contrary to yoga, but that's what I'm doing.   So my week started on Friday 4/13, and each week counts off from Friday, so I already had 3 classes in, but I went for #4 and went to class despite having an insanely busy day.  The other thing the program does is it forces you to take different classes....so you have to take from 5 different instructors.  More nudging outside of your comfort zone because I do what everyone does....I go to the classes I know, and I KNOW I like.  Safety in repetition.

The class was great though, and her parting words were on the idea that yes, we had come for an hour and done something for our body and minds, but that we would take that out into the world and there would be a ripple affect.  I like that idea....that we do something nurturing and soulful for OURSELVES, and in that action, we not only help ourselves but we create a ripple affect of good that goes on and on.  So really, one could argue it's practically SELFISH not to do things for yourself.  

What is your soulful thing that you are doing today?

I'm also trying to journal on compassion and forgiveness and how they relate.  So far I just have a lot of words and arrows....I'm not even sure how they relate or where those both lead in terms of what I am working on.  I just love the fact that once you start mulling something over, it just sort of moves forward and unravels your ideas and thoughts...but in a good way, in a way like you might be able to weave it back together in a way that makes more sense.  

It's been an insane week thus far (and the fact that we got a huge Velvet shipment, Lilla p. and two tons of Melissa shoes adds to the fun chaos).   Oh, and we got the prettiest Soap & Paper soaps.   The packaging is just lovely...it makes me want to buy 10 of them and give them to people I love, just because they are so darn pretty!!   See, I have to weave it all back around to something non-yoga and daily real life....such as work, and pretty things that make me happy :-).

Signed, ME {lv}

Yoga....Day 5

You know what?  It's really HARD to fit in something for yourself every day.  HARD.  The week gets moving and you feel like you are barely holding on.  Amidst all the running around, all the minutes you spend thinking about what groceries you need, what projects aren't done at work, which kid didn't do homework, or is late for school, or if you've remember to check your voicemails... you have to try and find a quiet space for yourself.  That seems incredibly hard.  That IS incredibly hard.  Big payoff though.

Today I took my favorite teacher's class.  He's a guru.  Really.  Well, maybe not officially, but he's amazing.  The class was hard, and his intention/focus for the class was the "do no harm" limb of yoga, but specifically, the do no harm to yourself aspect.  To stop the inner monologue that you aren't enough, that you didn't do it right, that you are less than you should be.  Always a good reminder to be kind to yourself, so you can be kind to others too.

I didn't focus on yoga much more today, but I did take a minute (10 minutes actually) to look over the travel book I'm making for each kid for this summer.  It's a little spiral bound book I'm creating that gives them the entire outline of exactly what our summer schedule is so they can get excited--AND not ask me a million times "what's next".  It has spaces for them to journal everyday too.  Which is aspirational I know, but I can try.  I can't wait to leave (6/25 is departure), and I'm already mentally thinking about what I'm going to pack.  It's a huge treat for me to daydream about our future travel plans--I love it.  The new Melissa shoes remind me of last summer, because the rep actually gave me a pair for free of the slides--and I literally wore them EVERYWHERE.  They are shockingly comfortable (and I wouldn't have thought so really).  It's the reason we ordered them for this year--they've been tried and tested.  I think these are absolutely adorable, can't wait to wear them!!  

 

"Often, it's not about becoming a new person, but becoming the person you were meant to be, and already are, but don't know how to be."  (Heather L. Buckmaster)

 

Signed, ME {lv}

Spring Dreams and Stylish Accents

I am sick of puffer coats. I am also sick of water-resistant shoes. I need the weather to cooperate with my style goals, and give me a perfect outfit day - cool, but not cold, and dry!  Bring on the January sunshine please! 

Speaking of style goals, we're loving these beautiful new scarves from Banaris - just the thing to brighten up any look with spring color and natural beauty!!! An instant wardrobe-freshener!!!

They look perfect paired with these casually-cool and very colorful tops from Velvet, and of course styling them with Citizens legendary jeans and this adorable new bling from CAI jewelry is just plain adorable!!! And with Valentine's Day approaching....girrrrl.......!!!!

My personal, pro-active style plan this week is going to be: to assemble a few pre-styled outfits on hangers in the front of my closet so I can grab-and-go, with no muss, fuss, or clothes tantrums which are one of the B.O.M.E.s. (Banes Of My Existence). Why haven't I done this before?! 

Stay tuned for more new arrivals this week at Melange - new treasures and special pieces to make your spring wardrobe sing and your transitional wardrobe POP! xoxoxo 

 

Celebrate!

"Because there is always joy." My new mantra.

I was watching a movie called "Into the Whirlwind" where a character in the most dire of circumstances (and I mean dire, I'm talking The Purge in 1930's Russia) is asked by another suffering prisoner how he can bear his losses and pain, and he says simply "There is always joy." And, there it is. The switch of life. The ability to choose joy. It's right there, waiting to be chosen. No matter what the hardships, there still is always joy. 

So I choose to celebrate this season. I am creating joy, all around me, for everyone. I will greet every stranger with a light and friendly heart, I will speak only kind and thoughtful words, I will look for new opportunities with courage and as much grace as I can muster. This is enough. This is reason enough to celebrate, come join me will you? Let's raise a glass together - of wine, of cranberry juice, of Martinelli's sparkling apple juice, of cocoa - any glass at all - and let's CLINK, toast and drink to each other's health and happiness. xoxoxo 

Oh and hey while we're at this little virtual party, let's dress up, shall we? Here, let me refill your glass, push the virtual hors d'oeuvres a little closer and I'll show you some fun party ensembles, k? Allons-y!!! 

We are still dancing with joy over our new holiday arrivals from Velvet!!! It is definitely time to get this party started when GORGEOUS pieces like these show up on your doorstep!!!

How about this look to knock 'em dead this party season? We have the inspiring Velvet Roma Lurex Chiffon Sheer Blouse with shimmering silver accents! This top is everything. Like a midnight sky strewn with sparkling stars, this piece conjures up everything magical about the season. Twinkle and shine as you move through the room! We love the sweet neckline, sheer overlay and beautiful sleeves. An easy fit keeps this piece soft and romantic, and we love it paired with some seriously sexy jeans like these ultra skinnies from Citizens!!! Add a bit of starry-eyed bling like this beautiful bracelet from Charlie and Xander, or these diamond-cut earrings from Sosie, and of course wear your sassiest party shoes - for an incredibly festive, flirty look!!! 

Another alluring party look we can't get enough of is the incredible Lara Dress from Velvet - paired with something WOW. Like these amazing Peridot earrings from Sosie - that pop of sparkling green with the midnight of the dress is SO beautiful!!!! 

Now let's get cozy. Because after the parties comes coffee. And baked goods. And Christmas shopping. Well, if you're early birds like us. ;) And for that we need COMFORT, and of course CUTE. And not necessarily in that order!

First up - the amazing Alissa coat from Velvet!!!! When this piece came in the door we had to have it! So much style - the texture alone is edgy and modern, a faux-fur effect in beautiful navy AND olive?! The coat is reversible! Plus it has a hood! We can't wait to rock this cutie over some super-skinny jeans, a graphic tee and boots for a street-smart ensemble, or posh it up a bit with dark wash jeans and a heeled boot - add a bright scarf for another layer of color and style! Wear it open over a boldly-striped tee and light wash jeans, and slip on sneaks for an adorable, casual look! Whatever the weather this unique piece will keep you cozy, cute and ready for anything! 

Finally, at the end of the day - slip into something more adorbs with these perfect pj's from PJ Salvage. They have our number - actually they have everyone's number - with these beautiful kitty cat pj's!!! Love that navy blue! There are pj's for everyone, whether you're more of a dog person, or a pink elephant person, or a wine person or a bumble bee enthusiast - they've got you covered. These socks are particular must-haves, lol - and would make some hilarious stocking stuffers!

So yes - it's time to have fun. It's time to celebrate friendship and joy and the good things in life!!! CHEERS all, and happy Thursday to you!!! xoxoxo Diane 

 

 

 

Sweet September Style

It hardly needs saying that we LOVE Fall fashion. Who doesn't? After the long summer months of heat we are ready for that cool bite in the air, that crisp breeze that promises a cozy season ahead. And with that we start rotating our summer clothes out and transitional pieces in. First up? Jeans. 

Now is the perfect time to restock our denim wardrobe with fall's latest jeans and leggings, and we're crushed-out on these amazing high-waisted Rocket jeans in black from Citizens - they are gorgeous! So comfortable, so sexy, and the ultimate in versatility. We can pair them with so many things - we love them with fall tunics - like this gorgeous midnight blue Gretchen tunic! So cute with the sleek black jeans, that sweet neckline and beautiful knit take this look to the next level. Just add some great boots for fall-perfection! 

Or go earth-tones and pair them with Prairie's fabulous Feint Blouse in Shitake - the clean lines of this top with its subtle military flair is too cute this fall with a little coppery bling and a great bag - to die for! 

A chic look in fall colors would be with MOL's luxe cashmere crew in Forest green - so yummy -  and layered under her incredible leather jacket. 

We're so ready for September, October, November - this is one of our favorite times of year, not only in fashion but in nature - Oregon will soon be dressed in her autumnal best, and we plan on doing the same!!! 

Happy Monday! xoxoxo Diane 

Autumnal Awesomeness

Hooray, it's fall fashion time!!! We can't let the biggest fashion season of the year go by without several huzzahs and a bottle of bubbly popped open, now can we? And in light of today's eclipse (or in the lack thereof) - we really have a reason to celebrate!!! So huzzah, huzzah, clink clink and down the bubbly - and let's go shopping for fall's finest fashion!!! 

Ok, let's talk luxury. And by that I mean cashmere. Is there anything better for fall and the winter months ahead? These sweeeeeeet little cashmere shrugs from Tees by Tina are our new BFFF's - Best Friends For Fall! Light, breezy - they ward off any cool evening chill, and set the tone for fall's knits and wraps.  The perfect transitional piece!!! We are totally in looove with this sweet little ballet-pink cashmere dream! 

Pair that pink beauty with a simple white tee like this one from Eileen Fisher. This soft, organic slub cotton  classic will be an MVP in your year-round wardrobe. Wear it over some slender jeans like these from Citizens of Humanity for a dressed down-with-a-touch-of-luxury transitional look!

Just add a sweet oxford shoe or a low-heeled bootie for the perfect urban edge. Then, add a little touch of gold with these beautiful earrings from Sosie! Or any gold, rose gold, or copper accent - so hot for fall!

Change it up and go day to night with this lovely, wine-red top from Velvet. This is the beautiful blouse to take you from late-summer through the holidays! And looks great with all of fall's accessories, denim, and jackets! The kind of top to dress up or down and wear with pants, jeans or skirts, and any fall or holiday jacket! 

A little later in the season we need warmth, and layering is the name of the game. We love this beautifully soft, chunky sweater from Velvet - that military color is rich and sophisticated and looks great layered over a crisp, fresh collared shirt like this one. Add some seriously sexy jeans, your favorite bootie and voila - fall-fabulosity! 

While you're shopping for fall finery, check out our incredible ECLIPSE SALE going on - it will eclipse your wildest dreams at AN ADDITIONAL 40% OFF all sale items (code: eclipse)!!!

 xoxoxo Have a great week everyone! 

 Diane

 

 

A Wondrous Day

Wow, it happened. My book is published. The pre-orders are in the air as we speak, winging their way to all you dear folks who placed them. Thank you all so much for being so excited along with me and so supportive! I hope with all my heart that you enjoy the story, and that all of the kids in your lives do, too. On that note - if you do enjoy it, please take a minute to leave a review wherever you can - on Amazon, Goodreads, Powells.com, Barnes and Noble - anywhere and everywhere! They make a huge difference for people who don't know me. ;)

Yesterday was a culmination of five years of hard work. Four years spent writing the original manuscript and one year spent editing it. To be honest I still don't feel done, I'm still afraid something horribly awkward or silly will jump off the page at me. But I have to stop somewhere, I fear I could go on editing it forever until it was whittled down to nothing, and I would have to start over.

I learned so much about writing during this process, and sometimes it was rough going. Humiliating even, sometimes - but art is like that, isn't it? Everyone who has ever tried some sort of art - drawing, painting, writing, dancing, acting - the early days aren't pretty. And it can choke you with self-criticism when you see how much you have to learn! But you can't get away from it - even the geniuses of the world had to start somewhere and practice, they also had to be humiliated by bad work, get over it and grow. So it's part of my "homework" - part of The Work -  failing, and trying again. And maybe failing again, but examining why, and fixing it. All-told I must have written Bridge of the Gods three times because I kept finding that by the time I got to the end, I had learned so much that the beginning needed more work to catch up! And when does that cycle end, I ask you? In case the answer is "never", I'm glad I cut the cord at some point, and said "Done. 

My inbox of late has been an unprecedented cornucopia of delightful surprises. I have now decided that everyone should have a publicist, whether they have a book to sell or not. My amazing team at Booksparks - Morgan Rath and Crystal lee Patriarche - do it all. Wizards at promotion and  marketing they send out press packs for my book, and pitch it to different literary websites around the nation. In the last two weeks I have woken up and checked my messages only to find that Bridge of the Gods is the first on BuzzFeed's "Five Reads To Beat The Back To School Blues"!!! I'm beyond thrilled!!!
The reviewer wrote:

"In the wake of tragedy, 12-year-old Chloe is abducted and sold to a group of vagabonds deep in the forest. Now, to survive, Chloe must learn just how much her furry friends know about the woods. Enchanting and incredibly well-written, Bridge of the Gods offers a fun and unique take on the fantasy genre." -- BuzzFeed 

More treats - The Culturalist has Bridge of the Gods listed in their "Top Ten Middle Grade Novels Hitting the Shelves in August" feature, and my peeps let me know that I had two essays appearing in separate places - My "Rock and Roll Introvert" piece on Germ Magazine, and the "Little Housetruck in the Woods" piece I wrote for Hypable. What a rush to see your work in a national format - I was in tears yesterday with gratitude and happiness. I had no idea this kind of thing would happen when I wrote the book - I didn't know how it would be received, and I was (and still am) nervous. These kinds of reviews and support for my writing are gifts in themselves, and made my Publication Day a truly special day, one for my personal books. 

It was a great day - but also a very hard day, given what is happening in the world, just outside my door. It's hard to celebrate anything right now with the hate and violence teeming in the streets.

 

  But of course we must celebrate, we must be creative, we must share our art, our writing, our song, our voices. Art and culture is the resistance, communication is the tool, and love is our weapon. 

The final touch? Beautiful flowers from the team at Booksparks. The perfect capper to a very big, very emotional and ultimately a very fulfilling day.

Peace and love to all of you!
xoxo 

Creating the World You Want to Live In

Hello all, it's another gorgeous summer day in Portland! A cool, fresh morning with a slight marine haze that reminds me of the early Santa Monica mornings of my youth. Then the haze burns off and the day is fresh and golden - until it gets too hot for poor little Oregonian me and I retreat into the house until dusk. But these early mornings are incredible!!! The stuff that you dream of in the deep of winter. 

Because I am still pretty limited by back pain, I mostly stick around the house, with brief forays into the world a couple of times a week. This means many, many days and hours stuck in a very small house with a very small yard. In order not to go COMPLETELY INSANE I have to totally re-prioritize my expectations, and focus on different things than I would normally do.

I've blogged about this in the past, I've called it "going small" - when your world is suddenly severely reduced because of an accident, or some unforeseen issue. It could even be someone else's issue or accident, but perhaps you have to be a caretaker for them - perhaps for a child or grandchild, or an elderly parent - and your daily world - both external and internal - suddenly shrinks to a shadow of its former self. What to do? 

I have decided that I must take this time to CREATE the world I want to live in. I have to take control of my thoughts and of the world I still control - or I will get depressed, and be even more immobilized. And really, being "forced" to think this way is a gift, a bittersweet one to be sure, but most gifts are. Because i can't go out and find the world I want to live in - I have to make it here, where I am.

In order to that I like to think hard about what things have made me most happy in my life so far. I like to think about I loved when I was a kid - you know that bubbly feeling of joy and excitement you felt as a kid sometimes? It could be from anything -  beloved pets, best friends, fun xmas memories, early Saturday mornings waking up to pancakes and cartoons, family trips, swimming pools - it doesn't matter what it was, just how it made you feel. Once you remember what made you joyful in the past as a child - then you can actually re-create it as an adult. You can recreate the entire picture if you have the means to do so - or you can just re-create the feeling it gave you. 

For instance - some of my most joyful memories center around my brief visits with my grandparents in Santa Monica, after we'd lived in Eugene, Oregon for a decade. Their house on Georgina was so light, so beautiful to me - the long, low stucco house was filled with family antiques as well as modern California touches - and most magically, they had a pool and a lovely patio with plants and ceramic pots that were always warmed by the sun. I remember that sound of small airplanes lazily passing by overhead, and to this day whenever I hear a small airplane I get that feeling again. That early-morning, two blocks from the beach kind of feeling. I don't actually have to BE in Santa Monica to get it - instead I find myself arranging certain family antiques in a similar fashion as they had, or I cook things that they cooked - well, vegan versions anyway - and I like to play music that came from their kitchen, while I cook those things - Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, etc.  Doinig this instantly transports me beyond my room, my house - like a time machine! It's especially strong around xmas time when I trim the tree and bake cookies and remember my grandparents amazing tree, and seemingly endless supply of xmas cookies. When a Rankin & Bass xmas special comes on I am practically delirious with a delicious nostalgia. Ahhhh, so satisfying, so beautiful! 

Other cherished memories I have stem from certain moments in our hippy years. When I lived in our house truck for three years in the 1970's I had many cozy moments that I think of often, and try to summon up in my present day life. Mostly they center around my mother's tiny-yet-richly-fragrant kitchen. Pretty blue tiles surrounded the house truck sink, a stained glass window looked over it, and there were blue glass ball jars of rice and grains, and green leafy plants curling about. The smells of the herbs and spices, the promise of a hearty dinner on a cold night, perhaps the sound of Joni Mitchell or Crosby, Stills, and Nash playing in the background - these impressions are carved deep in my heart, and give me a beautifully comforting vision to play in my mind, and bring into my present world. I have pretty jars of spices and herbs on my shelves, I have leafy green plants around my little stained glass window, and I play Joni Mitchell and CS&N all the time. So even though I can't really travel right now, I feel like I'm parked somewhere along the McKenzie river in the house truck, or hanging out in 1970's Santa Monica on 2nd street, or somewhere up in Topanga Canyon in some groovy house. And I don't even have to go anywhere! 

One other thing that really expands my little world, during the summertime - watering.  I loooove to water. Everything. The plants, the grass, the trees, and even the weeds, poor things - everything gets a drink, every day. There is something about drenching every hot, dry, parched blade of grass or struggling flower makes my soul feel better. I feel I am painting the world with instant relief. I hate to think of the plants and animals being hot and thirsty, I hate to think of them suffering when I have the means to alleviate it. I keep a bowl of fresh water available 24-7 for the critters and it's really a joy to see all kinds of birds, squirrels, and cats drinking from it. I keep two hummingbird feeders full of clean, cool nectar that I make myself, and I put out seeds and nuts in several places. It's like a wildlife education seminar, just watching all the behavior around the water bowl! 

Since we got our amazing new fence that surrounds the entire house I have felt far more able to spend time in the front of the house. Before it was just too public, too intimidating with all that incredibly loud traffic and god knows who lurching up 50th - sometimes there are some seriously wasted people right outside our doors -, and it can be scary. But since we got our fence I feel so much safer, more relaxed, and actually able to walk around my house, enjoying the sunlight and sound of the birds, and watering everything in sight. Also, I've hung creamy outdoor curtains and clear outdoor lights on both sides of the house. When my menopausal self wakes up at 3am the world outside has finally taken its drunken self home and all is quiet for the moment. That's when I take my first cup of coffee outside and walk under the lights and curtains, around the house, admiring how the lights make the yellow paint glow and set off the little white gingerbread trim on the porch, At that hour my house and grounds look like something out of a children's book. A sweet, fairy tale cottage with cozy lights and pancakes inside.  

Ahhhhh, my world may be small, but it's huge - it's the past, the present, and partly the future - and it's radiant. 

xoxoox happy Tuesday!!! Diane 

Vacation Day, Porciones, Scorpions and Fried Tacos

Today was a true vacation day. Which is to say, we did nothing exciting at ALL (especially no stressful family activities like ATV'ing).  My excitement consisted of coffee and my ocean view, then the beach, a run in with some sugarless/gluten free chocolate balls, fried tacos, a renegade American family, and two scorpions.  

First, my favorite part of the day...my morning coffee while looking a my view. The chair is starting to get an imprint of my butt.  

Second, I went down to the little store down the road and they had these packets of sugar free/gluten free chocolate covered pineapple.  Random right?  First off, I have stayed OFF sugar since January (almost entirely except for a few exceptions), and i don't eat gluten.  So I saw these little packs of goodness and went kind of loco.  I can't tell what was is in them (ignorance is bliss), because of course other than the name "sweet well", everything else was in in Spanish.  What I could tell however...AFTER I ate two pouches full of these things--TWO--was that according to the back label there are "4 porciones por paquete" and I'm guessing that means I just ate a total of 8 portions, which officially makes me a piggy.

Third, we met a really cool American family of three that decided to become Costa Ricans.  They sold all their stuff, and moved to Costa Rica...permanently.  Super interesting to hear how they changed their entire life style.  Bold move, very impressive.

I saw two scorpions today, one dead in the laundry room (I'm really hoping they spray the house with heavy duty, U.S. banned pesticides and that is why the bugger was dead).  The second one I saw in the dark walking up the steep hill with John doing our daily "hill" walk.  It was super dark but I could just make out a creature walking and scorpions have a certain "gait" to their step.  I made John turn on his cell flashlight and low and behold, a super big scorpion was walking across the road.

We hit Taco Tuesday at a beach restaurant down the road, where they fried up flour tortillas and did a trio of fish, chicken and beef tacos.  It is the only thing on the menu on Tuesdays.  Yum.

And that...drumroll....was my day.  Oh, and a whole lot of reading of My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante.  (GREAT book)

My suitcase essential pick today was Citizens, because they were the only jeans I brought (my Emerson's) and we scheduled a horseback riding trip today for next week, and it made me think about the fact that I remembered to bring jeans, BUT I'm wondering if the older girls actually listened to me when I told them they will want jeans on a horseback ride?  Guessing not.

Signed, ME {lv}

Enter to Win!!!

Only 7 weeks until publication! From August 15th my novel Bridge of the Gods will be available in big bookstores around the country, and many smaller, more independent ones, as well as being for sale on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com, and available as an e-book!

But you don't have to buy it, you can win it! Right now we're having a pre-publication giveaway where you an enter for a chance to win one of ten signed copies! Plus a really cool bookmark! Just follow this link to Goodreads and click to enter your name. So fun!!!

Other big book news this week is my first official review! I am so relieved, I had no idea what a critic might say and I was braced for some hard news. But I didn't get it! I got a very good review from Kirkus - this is what they said. The short version: 

“This middle-grade debut finds an audacious child — with a knack for bonding with animals — thrown into peril by her scheming uncle. In this appealing novel, Rios writes with an abiding love of nature, illustrating in scene after scene the power people may draw from it…An engaging adventure that shows the strength that can be discovered amid tragedy.”

— Kirkus Reviews

 

 

And here is the long version - it's a great synopsis of the book to wet your whistle!

 

"This middle-grade debut finds an audacious child—with a knack for bonding with animals—thrown into peril by her scheming uncle.

In 1908, 12-year-old Clothilde is the only child of Lord and Lady Ashton, new residents of Fairfax, Oregon. Preferring the name Chloe, the precocious girl loves to explore the nearby wilds while her parents run the Mercantile, an imported fabric shop. Life feels idyllic, as Chloe realizes that the house’s staff and woodland creatures alike adore her. Then one day, tragedy strikes her parents, leaving her family shattered. Chloe retreats into a world of literature and befriends a remarkably intelligent white rat whom she names Shakespeare. Further change comes in the form of Uncle Blake Underwood, who arrives to help maintain the Mercantile. But Blake is the shiftiest of characters and quickly compromises the entire estate. He abducts Chloe, bringing her by horse-drawn carriage among a band of vagabonds, intending to sell her. Not without her own natural gifts, Chloe comes to know and speak with Greybelle, her uncle’s horse. The mare describes her own tragic past as well as an ancient battle between the mountains themselves that left the landscape in ruins. If the girl is to escape, she must learn the extent of her own abilities, and just how deep the land’s magic runs. In this appealing novel, Rios writes with an abiding love of nature, illustrating in scene after scene the power people may draw from it. When Chloe displays wonder that animals understand her, Greybelle says, “The respect you show to all beings—human, animal, or plant—is also your ‘voice,’ and they all hear it loud and clear.” As her fortunes wax and wane, Chloe meets other charismatic individuals like the Artist and Mrs. Goodweather. Rios keeps the danger real by using only low-key magic—like enchanted paintings and pies—that feels “so familiar and so natural that it was almost not like magic at all.” The mystery surrounding a suspiciously cloistered hospital and its reckless ambulance drivers should draw readers to the sequel.

An engaging adventure that shows the strength that can be discovered amid tragedy." -- Kirkus Reviews

One other recommendation was this adorable feature on the Book Sparks blog - in case you were wondering what cake to pair with Bridge of the Gods - it's Rustic Vanilla! Which I happen to looove!

Perhaps some good summer reading, eh? Don't forget to enter to win a free, signed copy!!!

xoxoxo Diane 

 

Summer Breeze, Makes Me Feel Fine...

This sweet, breezy summer collection from Eileen Fisher is transporting us to sun-splashed boardwalks along pristine beaches. Bare feet, sexy sandals, sun-bronzed (or faux-bronzed) skin dressed in cool cottons and the softest linens, full of rich color and flattering silhouettes. We LOVE the easy elegance of Eileen Fisher's designs - each one is a style star, and they all seem to go together!!! Here are a couple of our favorite looks, for playing in, for travelling in, for living in. 

First up this sweeeeeet dress. Instant crush! Super-soft linen in a silvery PLAID - a chic, slimming sheath silhouette with the SEXIEST little v-back!!!! Short sleeves and sweet patch pockets in the front to hold your shades and your cell phone - we're hooked. Love this with a simple sandal and a little summer bling. 

Next up the amazing white boyfriend jeans - so smooth, so fresh in this beautiful white stretch denim - and they add the perfectly sexy slouch to ALL of your summer tops! Pair it with Eileen's aptly named "Blue Angel" top and add a fresh pop of summer print with this scarf - a sweet sandal and you're sunshine itself!  

We also adore the deliciously soft and light Handkerchief Linen Tunic, also in white. It's the season to lighten up ladies, and there's nothing like a fresh white summer dress to rock with any accessory! Add that scarf we just showed you, and a great summer bag, perhaps a little color at the wrists or ears, and those fab sandals we know you own, and step out to a day of super-summer-style!!!! We're inspired.  

And here's a little video from Eileen herself for more summer sartorial inspiration! Happy first of June!!!! xoxoxo Diane 

Sweet Summer Style!

We are over the moon about our new summer arrivals! This is one of our favorite times of year - when the rain takes a break and the sun comes out and best of all - WE CAN WEAR OUR SUMMER WARDROBE!!! Take a look a few of our favorite new pieces, and imagine how you could switch them up to create even more looks! To begin, we're drooling over this gorgeous off-the-shoulder Corra Dress from Velvet! 

She's a red-hot flirt, that one! That beautiful ruffle, easy, flowing fit, perfect length, and COLOR! We love this "Marc" (is that Marc Jacobs?) RED with summer skin and a touch of gold, plus your favorite sexy sandals - a gladiator or lace-up sandal would be divine. Just add Velvet's amazing straw tote to add contrast and to carry everything you need. LOVE! 

We also LOVE the Velvet Tracia Tank. Omg, where is the nearest festival?! This beautiful, sexy tank is perfect for any summer fun - we love those fresh, colorful stripes, easy, breezy silhouette, and that super-sexy back! Not to mention the gleaming silver thread that runs through the fabric - it catches the light and makes you glimmer with summer beauty. SO stinkin' cute with any jean, or cut-off shorts! Add your favorite accessories - we love these beautiful glass bead bracelets from Satori Rue! 

Another super-fresh look is this amazing Elizabeth Gillette scarf with this super fresh Ann top from Amadi, and these go-to Arielle Mid Rise jeans from Citizen. The scarf looks great with all kinds of tees and tanks, try it with the Adeline Top from Amadi, it's one of our spring favorites! 

Lastly, check out the amazing Genna Dress! The viscose feels like a cool whisper against summer skin, and the off-the-shoulder look is perfect for date night on a warm evening. Try adding a little silver bling to this one - it's like a summer moonlit night. Sigh. Did we say this is one of our favorite times of year?  

 

Happy weekend everyone, may you look and feel amazing and inspire others to do the same! xoxoxoxo Diane 

 

24 hour PJ's, Candles & Scarves

It’s pajama day at Romeo’s school tomorrow.  I had to text his best friend's mom to get the “assurance” he needed that he wasn’t going to be the only one showing up in his jammies.  He came into my room and said, “I got a good plan (which sound like pwan).  I’m going to wear my school jammies for real jammies at night, and then I won’t have to change in the morning.”  Good thinking.  It’ll be a 24 hour pj bonanza.  Truth be told, I’ve slept in a Tees by Tina tank, and then worn the same one the next day…for real.  And yes, it IS in fact, sort of convenient.  
 
Today is the first day of March, and the first day to start operation March Mission.  A month to restore and renew ourselves.  We’re going to divine some simple pleasures that create a warm and nurturing environment.  Helen Russell, in her book “Year of living Danishly”, describes hygge as “taking pleasure in the presence of gentle soothing things.”  Doesn’t that sound lovely?  That sounds like something nurturing to the soul, and we’re going to pick apart all kinds of great ideas and tips to that end.    

For March we used Danish hygge as inspiration for the general concept of a nurturing, soothing philosophy of life, which we want to be the backdrop of everything. We also want to create a lovely, organized, physical environment that is a thing of beauty and comfort.   Lastly, we want to manage our time with awareness so that we can find new ways to grow and be stimulated (since after all, it’s spring—the time of growth). We want to be the best dressed while doing all that.  Seems like a tall order, but hey, there are 31 days in March, and we are game.

So today as we start our quest for hygge, it’s all about candles. Candles? Yes. Who knew they were so important? I love candles, and every once in awhile I buy a really fantastic one, more often they are gifted. I enjoy it when I burn them, but can’t say I’ve put a whole lot of thought into it one way or another. Well, guess what? The Danish have, and their use of candles surpasses none, and it is central to their orchestration of the hygge environment. Ever since I read about the importance of candles I’ve been burning them left and right, and I have to say, it DOES really add to a sense of peacefulness. Apparently the Danish light candles all the time, even in schools….fire hazards be damned. It’s very hygge to do so. I love scented candles, but even if you aren’t burning a scent, the flicker of the candle is soothing, you have to admit, and it provides a glow that is sort of contagiously peaceful. I’ve been using candles liberally during dinner, and the kids are crazy about it, instant “specialness” factor.  One of my favorites is the Capri Blue Volcano candle because it smells amazing and it's not a gazillion dollars (just $27.50 on Amazon).

The whole notion of a nurturing, cozy, and soothing goal, has me also thinking about my favorite things that I wear on my body that bring me the same feelings. The first one that popped into my head was scarves.   I wear them ALL the time…all year round really. They are always a comfort to me; there is something inherently cozy about wrapping something around my neck, even when it’s not cold. I’ve got a little Diane Keaton in me I think.

I’ll sign off with a bit of wonderful wisdom from my hippy dippy friend (who is the most delightful combo of a badass businesswoman, and hippy soul nurturer.) Her advice was to fix the problem in front of you, and not to worry about the problems that haven’t happened yet. Isn’t it insane how simple genius can be? Yes, indeed…deal with what is right in front of you, and don’t spend your energy playing the “what if” “when it” or “if it” game. I’m queen of the over-worry, and that my dears, is NOT hygge.

Here’s to a wonderful March my friends, I’m excited to make it meaningful.

Signed, ME {lv}

Inside the Process: The Ups and Downs of Illustrating My Book

Sheesh. I thought this would be easier. I thought I could whip out 40 small, simple, black and white illustrations in no time. 40 might sound like a lot, but these would be really simple drawings - the kind that many middle grade novels have at the beginning of their chapters. Case in point - Garth Williams has them at the start of every Little House on the Prairie book chapter. Great little black and white drawings of everyday items like buckets, harness, ears of corn - things that are reflected in the chapter. I have long-loved those drawings of his, and wanted to make them for my own book. So I thought - naively - no problem! I can whip up 40 small drawings of ravens, a squirrel or two, some pine cones, blackberries, maybe a bear - I do have a deadline, and it's only two weeks away. But that seemed like plenty of time - and so I got started this morning, fully expecting to get at least five done today. 

Um, no. I got one. And now that deadline suddenly feels like tomorrow.

The problem is consistency. They need to look like each other, they need to be very clean, very perfect, and I guess my chops are rusty, because they are none of those things. Argh. Trying to re-learn how to draw in time to illustrate your own book is perhaps - duh- an impossible task.

I do just fine when I can erase away, leaving smudges and smears, and corrections that are visible, but when I go to make the "final" drawing - the one I'm going to actually use - I get all shaky, and the proportion is always off, and I just can't re-create the success of the first sketch. I have no idea what most other illustrators do, but I'll bet some of them have the exact same problem.

When I was a print maker I used to think that I was lacking some fundamental skill because I couldn't draw directly onto the plate very well. After all, my favorite etchings had draftsman-like perfection. How in the heck did they do that?! For me, drawing in ink with a stylus is a wiggly, shaky, very imperfect affair. I felt I couldn't be a "real" artist because real ones could surely call up a perspective-perfect drawing, full of gesture and life - at a moment's notice, in any medium. I thought that printmakers like Rembrandt drew their masterpieces straight onto the plate, with no guides.

I've since found out that is not true, by any means. Artists have any multitude of ways of transferring pre-drawn images onto their final medium. Placing a drawing directly onto the ink and tracing it will leave the desired image behind. Carbon paper was a favorite transfer tool, as was poking holes in a paper along the lines of an illo and (believe it or not) blowing colored chalk dust through them to mark where to put lines. And there are tools for easier drawing on awkward surfaces - there are wrist bridges to hold your arm off a wet or smear-able surface - you don't, as I used to think, have to be an uber-strong contortionist and create a perfectly-rendered masterpiece while holding your aching wrist in the air. There are all kinds of trade tricks and secrets to getting just the right final image, whether it was your first attempt or last. 

So - luckily I have many sketches for the book that I've done over the last year, that I love. To solve my consistency problem I am going to call on some of these age-old methods, and transfer these sketches onto clean paper, instead of making whole new ones. They have the proper perspective and the life and character I'm looking for, they are just too rough to use directly. But if I transfer them very lightly to a clean sheet of paper and then go back in to ink them in, I think they will work beautifully. Hooray!

That means I only have about ten more to do from scratch. In two weeks. I think I can do that. (still naive?)

I love a map, so of course I had to make one. This one has many real-life places such as Mt. Hood (Wy'east), Mt. Adams (Klickitat), Mt. St. Helens (Loowit), the Columbia River, and of course The Bridge of the Gods itself. It is generally a map of Oregon, although not an exact topographical match.

A fun note: the reknowned hippy fair in the woods known as "The Oregon Country Fair" (where I spent a significant part of my childhood), is featured in the book as "The Cobbly Fair". Look closely and you might even find a loose reference to the Flying Karamazov Brothers, a legendary juggling team. Good times! ;)

Meanwhile, here is a sneak peak of what I'm doing in the next two weeks - just to (hopefully) tantalize your imagination, and make you wonder about Chloe's story, and what happens to her in the Bridge of the Gods.

Today's artistic process take-away? Let the frustration flow through you, and then let it go. Look for a solution, you're farther ahead than you think. Stay light, stay focused. xoxoxo 

8 Foot Hurdle Wednesday

Wednesday’s are my hardest day….probably most people’s hardest day. For me, far worse than Monday. I have always hated the phrase “hump day”…it’s just wrong in every way. There are two "h" words that I would prefer to have banned from the English language, hump and horny.  Fraternities would never allow it, but I'd start the petition tomorrow if I thought it would work.  However, I do embrace the idea that Wednesday is a major “hurdle” day.

For whatever reason all my tricky kid maneuvers are on Wednesday too, which is a big strategic mistake. The extra three kid carpool, piano, tennis, karate, and two school pick up matrix is tight, and stressful, and then today I had to throw in there an orthodontics appointment for Gia who is wildly scared of pain. I mean terrified of pain. Sure, no one wants to actually have pain, but her fear of it is beyond normal. This appointment wasn’t even to have anything done (she’s only 9 years old), the appointment was just to start the assessment process in case there will be intervention needed down the road. That was enough to send her into a tailspin , prompted a machine gun of questions and extreme apprehension that pain might be around the corner. That was all before 9 a.m.

So, the upshot of all of that is my hurdle day has been…well, a big ass 8 foot hurdle. Plus for whatever reason I woke up today lost, just floundering in my head. There’s a looming and ongoing debate going on between John and I on our life “plan” for the future. Ten year plan I guess you’d say….13 years to be exact because Ava enters high school next year and then we have exactly 13 years during which a kid will be in high school at all times and the goal is to be rooted to the same place so that we don’t break up any of their experiences.   Of course things may happen, and 13 years is a long time (it is and it isn’t) but the goal is to at least make some sort of concrete decision about our “plan” before high school starts. That plan is very much NOT clear.

Isn’t it funny how sometimes you feel like you “got this”, and then suddenly you feel like you most definitely do NOT? Nothing has changed ostensibly, but today I feel confused, and overwhelmed at the decisions ahead and I feel like I definitely do NOT have a handle on any of it.  It's like the air pressured changed (or more likely, my hormone levels.)

So I explain all of this because today’s joy goal is to practice forgiveness, and I’ve decided I've got to start with myself. I’m going to forgive myself my extreme funk, forgive myself the less than stellar parental argument I had with Ava about grades, forgive myself the fact I didn’t fit in Romeo’s guitar practice, forgive myself my lack of focus, my irritability and overall wallow-y-ness.

I think practicing forgiveness is an admiral, and joy inspiring process, and it starts with yourself. Give yourself permission to forgive yourself, and then move on down the list of things you are holding on to. You forgive, let go of the pain, guilt, disappointment, confusion, or baggage, and then it allows you to move on. I’m going to start Thursday with a clear conscious.  Funk-be-gone.

Signed, ME {lv}

p.s.  I came home today at 5:30 pm, and promptly put on my comfy pants and my "robe that isn't a robe"...my Hard Tail Slouchy cardigan.  That was a treat.  Instant, "aaaahhhhhhhh" moment.  At least when I feel the need to nurture myself in my mega funk, I can be super comfortable and cozy doing it.  

 

Amazing Amanda's No Sugar Reflections

I MADE IT!! I really made it!! Its finally the very last day of January, and I am in the very last hours of my no sugar month! WAHOO! Here's the thing though, I am kinda over it - like really! Yes, I still want a piece of chocolate cake (like really bad), but I don't know if it's worth it, and now I know I can live without it. Yes, I am now addicted to popcorn and baked apple chips, but there are worse things, right? ;)

I have also developed a love affair with a raspberry, blackberry, spinach (or kale, whatever is on hand), and carrot smoothie. BUT, with those things now in my life, sugar just doesn't sound good in the way it used to. And, I feel better! Less bloated, and my period was 10 times better, and half as long - that alone is reason enough to cut out sugar!! I can't say my skin is clearer, but mostly because the weather has been crazy cold, then wet, then dropping below freezing and then 50...it's crazy town right now, and my skin can't keep up. But, maybe it would have been worse, so perhaps the sugar detox made it better?

I am not sure what I was expecting to get out of this - I just wanted a challenge, and to be slightly healthier. Can't say I had unrealistic or grand visions of losing 25 pounds, my hair growing 6 inches while getting silkier, and just a general glow around my aura - I didn't know what to expect, if anything at all really. I can say I feel better though, more balanced, and like I just broke up with a boyfriend that I didn't realize was bad for me, or that I could live without, until he was gone.

But honestly, I am a little sad that I do feel this much better though. ;) It just proves that this change was needed, and purse chocolates, after lunch cookie, after work sweet treat, after dinner ice cream, and late night chocolate raids DO need to be a thing of the past! I haven't totally hashed out a solid outline yet, but I am thinking that moving forward, and into February, I will abstain from sugar 95% of the time, but 5% of the time allow a treat here and there - for example, truffles on Valentine's day, but only if they are my favorite - I will not compromise for a flavor that is just so-so, or if they're not from my favorite chocolate shop.

I am also more aware of the things I am making, and what I am buying, since sugar does hide in everything! I like things to be convenient too, so I've gotten in the habit of making a huge batch of spaghetti sauce, and freezing most of it, so I never have to buy canned again. :) That way, it's still super easy to come home from work and make something for dinner, but not have to buy something canned. YAY!

All in all, I am happy I gave up sugar, and kicked it to the curb. It feels good, I saved money, and better yet, as of right now, I can say 'I haven't had sugar ALLLL year'. ;-)

Love Not Hate, That's What Makes America Great

It's here. The world is grabbing back.  

Portland's protest yesterday was the biggest social event in its history. 100,000 people in the streets - women, men, children, old people, teenagers, and each of them filled with a powerful determination, and positive message. Each of them spreading love, not hate. Even some of the cops joined in, wearing pink hats, big smiles, and taking pics with the crowd! And this happened all over the world. It was truly a miracle day!

Favorite chant: "WE WANT A LEADER, NOT A CREEPY TWEETER!"

I feel better than I have since what's his name won the nomination. Sickeningly, I could not be there myself - I was in bed on pain pills because of my crap back. Totally sucked. But I watched the protests all day long and cheered from my bed, wept with happiness and surging joy at the sight of so many BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE in the street! So much love, so much creativity - I'm totally overwhelmed and surprised by how it makes me feel - who needs pain pills when you've got this unrelenting river of tenderness flowing through the world?!!! They are all heros and heroines. Truly. Yesterday was one of the most amazing days in human history. It's obvious now to me that I'm not alone, as I sometimes feel. None of us are. We are all around each other, right now! WE HAVE THE NUMBERS. WE HAVE THE POWER!!!

 I feel more empowered by this incredible outpouring of intelligence, compassion, love, motivation, creativity, determination grit, and general ELEVATION than I have maybe since Obama's first inauguration. So - THANK YOU WORLD! Thank you for restoring my faith in humanity, in America, in my own damaged culture - it really IS just the beginning. Let's do it again, let's meet in the street again, I will rent a wheelchair for the day, I won't be stopped next time! let's CALL CONGRESS EVERY DAY of the week, and let's tsunami that creepy tweeter out of the white house! 

Call this number to get connected to your Congress member, Senators and Representatives! 202-225-3121

Please note: Nov. 6th, 2018. Mark it in your calendar - it's less than two years away. That's the date on which 33 senate seats, all 435 seats in the House of Representatives, and 14 governorships currently held by Republicans will be up for reelection. November 6, 2018 is the first chance the majority of Americans will have to cut off Donald Trump's legislative balls.
Go. Put that in your calendar right now. Don't just trust that you'll remember it. Voter turnout was just 36 percent during the 2014 midterm elections -- the lowest in 70 years. We all need a reminder, because that cannot happen again.
Make sure the young people in your life are registered to vote, and turn in their ballots, or drive them to the polls! We need every single vote on Nov. 6th, 2018. Less than two years away.

Melange supports women and women's rights. Melange is made of sisters and mothers and daughters, grandmothers and grand daughters, aunties, nieces, and nephews and brothers and dads too!  And they are all the heart and soul of the world. xoxoxoxo Diane

Forget Sugarplums

Oh yes. Or should I say, mais oui! I made my annual xmas trip to the tres formidable patisserie down the street "Le Petit Provence". That place is like walking into Paris! It feels completely transported straight from France... to Division street in Portland, Oregon. It's a treat for all the senses! It has the gold mirrors, the rich display full of incredible deserts, the super-efficient and knowledgeable bakers, and of course, it has the art of it, the craft of it, the all-around excellence of french pastry-making! It just feels, smells, and certainly tastes different than an american bakery. I am a vegan most of the year, but I do break down around xmas and have a couple of pastries from the gorgeous Petit Provence. Thank goodness their baguette is vegan, I can eat it all year long, and it is exactly like a great french baguette. Not some lame american interpretation. I highly recommend stopping into your nearest french bakery to add a little joyeux noel to your table. Or Pere Noel.

Happy Tuesday everyone! xoxoxo DR 

Le Hot

Need a great party look? Want something warm, flattering, sexy, with a cool urban edge? Look no further, this ensemble is tres chic, tres cool and tres pret-a-porter! Check out this sweet Vincianna Blouse from Velvet. Love that poet's silhouette and swiss dot black fabric - the perfect background for Eileen Fisher's super-sexy Beaded Necklace (so slinky, so sparkly!). Add a sleek, faux-leather legging like these London Street Pants from Blanc Noir. Need an edgy wrap? How about the amazingly-cool moto jacket from Raw Earth Wild Sky? Softly structured, it's comfortable AND so cool. This look has so much style and sass,  with all the warmth...brrrrr baby it's cold out there!... that we need to get around the city without freezing our buns off! Now just add the final touch - the heel of your choice - or a sexy wedged boot - and ma cherie - you are all that! Joyeux Noel and as they say in New Orleans, Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler!!! xoxoxo happy Sunday! DR 

Cashmere Ensemble du Jour - So Very Velvet

Oh my. This outfit. So dreamy, so creamy, so CASHMERE. We are a little bit freaking out over how cute this is - the Velvet Clementia Shirred Top in Bisque is all silky and sexy with its poet blouse silhouette and gorgeous print, and layering it under the super-soft-and-oh-so-sweet Velvet Corlinn Cashmere Drape Cardigan is pure sartorial genius. These pieces are LOVELY together - and seriously ramp up the sex appeal when worn with some sweet denim like the Henry & Belle Super Stretch Straight Jean and boots.

Add a little bit of gold bling at the ear, throat, or hand, and girrrrl....that's holiday happiness!!! Right now take 30% off ALL CASHMERE. That means this cardigan!!! Woot!!! Merry Xmas to us!!!!!! xoxoxo DR

Glam, With an Edge

Oh man! Look what just came in the mail!!! The most beautiful, slinky, sexy, COOL necklace ever! The Eileen Fisher Beaded Necklace is my new favorite thing. Now I want it in the ash and gold, too! Such a great price point for so much style. The ribbon these sparkling metal beads are strung on is strong, but soft, the necklace feels amazingly comfortable - even sexy because of the slinky weight and coolness of the beads against your skin. I LOVE it. I am wearing it now with my holiday velvet, so pretty in the candlelight!!! And during the day I'm going to rock it with a white tee, jeans, boots and a sexy black faux leather moto jacket. PLUS, it looks great as a bracelet, too!!! Hello black sun dress this summer! A little sparkling bracelet to go with you. xoxoxo Come get your holiday sparkle on with us! These necklaces won't last! xoxoxo DR