Un Peu De Tout

My House Smells Divine

2010-04-18T18:59:00.000-07:00

Brewin' up a batch of chai today. Plan on keeping some and giving out the rest.

Sure do love this stuff!

Got a Heart of Stone? Watch This

2010-04-14T17:24:00.001-07:00

Nevermind the cheezy cheese commentator, just watch this lovely video about love. A most unlikely but beautiful love.

Oh Dear

2010-04-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Bagley of Cardigan Empire fame

has a post today

so very worthy of the minute or two it takes to read it.

My sentiments exactly,

dear stylista!

Funky Reggae

2010-04-10T09:12:00.000-07:00

Had to add this one. LOVE Natural Mystic by Bob Marley. Reading about the Rastafaris today. Interesting peoples and belief system..

A little funky Reggae for your pleasure...
(I was at this show!)

A Little Fashion for Your Saturday Morning

2010-04-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

Isn't this just so beautiful?! I love everything from the dress (!!) to the bolero, to the walls, the furniture... 

I'm in love.

Just For Today

2010-04-09T20:05:00.000-07:00

For today, for what it's worth, life is good.

Have a great weekend, all.

Rainy Day Sewing Project

2010-04-05T08:55:00.000-07:00

Today, I meet up with a friend and we're going to have a sewing fest! I'll be bringing my sewing machine over to her house, then we'll go to the store to shop for fabric and supplies (!), and then we'll sew and knit to our heart's delight. I think we may even whip a lunch and some tea! I know, we're hardcore like that!

This is what I'll be doing. I think she'll be making a simple bag. Can't wait!

Yikes.

2010-03-31T23:44:00.000-07:00

The lack of posting around here is a direct result of just how much I've been working lately. And I'll tell you, I REALLY don't belong in the superficial, drama-filled, ridiculous world that is cosmetics. BUT, it's the best paying job I've ever had and right now it's paying the bills. But boy oh boy have I had it up to here. Let me tell you. Rrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!!!

More (and happier) posts in April! Spring has sprung 'round here and my roses are getting ready (my lavender is in full bloom already!)

What the Fashion World Could Use a Little of Today

2010-03-25T09:28:00.000-07:00

When I saw this video about Jordan Christy and her accompanying book on Cardigan Empire this morning, I knew I just had to post it here as well. I am so so so so so so SO happy to see and hear a beautiful young woman speak about modesty and classy behavior and self-respect in such a positive and happy way. This is just the boost I needed today. I have so many friends my age who are sweet and good, but still they're trapped by today's dress "standards" of tight/see-through/barely-there clothes and it makes me not only sad, but seem like I am shy! I'm not shy - I have self respect!

So, please enjoy this lovely young lady speak about something we could use a fashionable resurgance of: modesty and self respect.

Author Jordan Christy from Jordan Christy on Vimeo.

The Osmond SISTERS!!!

2010-03-21T08:48:00.000-07:00

Or are they??? ...

Ya wanna win a brand new Janome sewing machine? Huh, do ya??? Well, you'd better enter to win real quick-like 'cause the contest is going to end on March 30th. TWO lucky, lucky people are going to win an awesome Janome machine, and if you know anything about me, you know I love me a Janome.

So. Go enter to win. Watch this neat video with the lovely ladies who are hosting this giveaway and hope/pray/wish/plead that you are one of those two winners.

 Oh yeah. Lest I forget. There are also ten kits being given away to make some really darling pincushions. You'll see them in the vid.

Good luck!

P.S. If you want to find out if these lovely ladies are Osmonds or not, you're going to have to watch to find out. :)

My Latest Obsession

2010-03-14T18:09:00.000-07:00

I am head-over-heels about Megan Joy, both musically (oh, her voice!) but also stylistically! She's so funky fresh and fab! SOOO cute!

Have a Beer!!!

2010-03-14T14:10:00.000-07:00

In preparation for one of my very favorite holidays, I'm dancin' a jig! Having friends over for some authentic and delicious Irish dinner the day after, too. Can't wait! My taste buds are already a waterin'!!

OK, This is Just Badass

2010-03-12T16:46:00.000-08:00

Jim Breuer does Metallica. Uh, does it get any better than this??

Solicitation

2010-03-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

Or can one really solicit prayers? Because that's what I am in need of right now. Details aside, I am at a crossroads and am in need of clarity and conformation. As well as support and love. I am doing my best to reach out and keep my head above water, which is working so far, but I feel that I need could use a little extra bolstering about now. Like many, many people, I am walking a difficult road and am hoping for easier times ahead.

So, if you've got a minute, say one for me, send me some love, however you do it. I'll receive it and I really will appreciate it. Thanks.

This helps, too.

"This Too Shall Pass" A LA Dooce

2010-03-04T08:59:00.001-08:00

Mourn With Those Who Mourn

2010-02-27T14:00:00.000-08:00

My heart goes out to the entire Osmond family, especially Marie in light of this tragic news.

My heart aches.

Fun Fact

2010-02-26T09:03:00.000-08:00

One can almost never have too much garlic.

It's true.

Almost.

Giveaway, Giveaway, Enter in the Giveaway!

2010-02-26T08:13:00.000-08:00

So OF COURSE Sue is bringin' it with the raddest giveaway of the YEAR! A chance to win

(trumpet sounding)

An HP Compaq Mini CQ10 Series Netbook!!!!

I am making Sue SO. FREAKING. JEALOUS.

YEESSSSSSS!!!!

Entertainment

2010-02-23T23:43:00.000-08:00

Ladies and Gentlemen:

This is what real talent looks like. GOD is this man a star. He is the first star in a long time to actually drive me wild... oooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!! Like curl-your-fingers-and-toes hot. DAMN! He's got an incredible voice like Freddie Mercury, except with bursting sex-appeal. Obviously I could go on and on. But..

I mean, HELLO?!??:

Cuteness Overload

2010-02-22T17:40:00.000-08:00

Beck Been Done Had

2010-02-21T23:14:00.000-08:00

Three's A Crowd

2010-02-12T21:07:00.000-08:00

I have a mean sister. Except, she's mean psychologically and not physically. I don't really know which is worse, but I sure don't like the way she is. She can go piss up a rope, as far as I'm concerned at this point. Although obviously it all still gets under my skin. I just don't know how to make her disappear, even though she's chosen to evade herself from me (can I use evade in that tense?). I really don't like it all, and I am trying to build myself a family outside of those with whom I share blood. Through the courses of our lives, we have become so very different that indeed we are not even friends. It sounds easy to deal with on paper (computer screen?) but it is much harder when you've already lost the bulk of your family to death or famine*. Well, off I am to bed. Not to visit her FaceBook page for a long time now. Ideally, not at all again, but I am an honest lass, so I know I'll be back there before the year's through... *sigh* some people never learn, do they...

*Famine, in this sense, my sense, refers to the dire state of life my family was in due to the choices my parents made in their lifetimes. We were famished in many senses of the word.

I Know What I Know, If You Know What I Mean

2010-02-05T20:45:00.000-08:00

Edie Brickell always reminds me of better days. And I need a little of that these days.

If I Were...

2010-02-05T09:10:00.000-08:00

*if I were a day of the week, I'd be Sunday!
*if I were a time of day, I'd be 7AM in the morning.
*if I were a direction, I'd be West. 
*if I were a tree, I'd be of the Willow or Oak varieties.
*if I were a tool, I'd be a pair of scissors.
*if I were a flower I'd be of the Hyacinth variety.
*if I were a musical instrument I'd be a harp or a sitar.
*if I were a color, I'd be gold.
*if I were a fruit, I'd be a pomegranate.
*if I were an element, I'd be earth. 

*if I were a food, I'd be asparagus.
*if I were a place, I'd be San Francisco.
*if I were a material, I'd be wood.
*if I were a scent, I'd be vanilla.
*if I were an object I'd be a Victorian House.
*if I were a song I'd be Free Bird, I guess...

Back to the Grind

2010-02-03T08:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm afraid it's back to the grind for me today. I slept in and have very little time to get ready. So what better way to spend my limited time than blogging?!

G'day to y'all!

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

2010-02-02T08:54:00.001-08:00

My mother loved this song and sang it to me when I was a child. That and My Favorite Things. I wouldn't mind seeing Ms. Jones coming here to the Bay in April. Nope, wouldn't mind at all.

New Likes

2010-02-02T08:21:00.000-08:00

The Provo Accoustic Sessions. They're good.

Provo Acoustic Sessions from provo acoustic on Vimeo.

Let Us Talk of Hobbits and Things

2010-01-30T12:38:00.000-08:00

My soul is craving The Lord of the Rings, so all I can do while I wait for them to arrive in the mail via NetFlix is watch these trailers. *Sigh* I love these movies.

If I were a character in the movie, I would be an Elf.

My Metal Addiction

2010-01-28T20:27:00.000-08:00

Screams are like sweet lullabies in my ears.

Metal music is as normal and good to me as is the Grateful Dead or Celine Dion. Is that weird to you? I'm sure it is. But metal has been part of my life for many, many years now and I don't know if it will ever part from me.

My love for rock music started when I was a child. The first rock band that I remember choosing to listen to was The Doors. My father gave me a tape and I used to play it in my little WalkMan. I was heavily and permanently influenced by my father's (and mother's, actually) musical tastes, but like most children, my tastes evolved once I flew the nest, and for me that was into metal. A lot of people my age gravitated toward rap or hip-hop or R-n-B, but not me. Metal has just always made sense to me and it doesn't make me feel uncomfortable like I am sure it does to many. The funny part to me is that while I don't need to listen to it every day like my ex-boyfriend, there comes a time every week or so where I literally crave some metal. Sometimes it's Ihsahn, well actually, a lot of the time. And other times it's Metallica or Otep (though that's a story for another day). And I spend a couple of hours listening, enjoying, rocking-the-fuck-out, and then I'm good.

I actually do wonder if this is something that I will do for years to come. If I will be a mom and still listening to metal. Or a grandma! I mean, hey. My grandma still listens to music she listened to when she was my age. Above my computer I've posted a cut-out comic strip from the brilliant Dan Piarro's "Bizarro". It simply says, "SENIOR MOMENT - 2060" and has an old man with all sorts of tattoos and piercings asking, "Now where did I put those car keys?"

Yeah, my generation kicks ass.

Beauty Begs

2010-01-28T20:05:00.000-08:00

Again tonight, beauty calls from beyond and beckons to to seen.

Thus, I respond and give you: Ihsahn.

Coincidence?

2010-01-22T23:12:00.001-08:00

Super funny!

Time Warp

2010-01-22T08:55:00.001-08:00

This is one of my favorite songs from Rocky Horror. And FYI, my favorite character is Riff Raff. *wink, wink*

The Germans Are Here... Hello America!!!

2010-01-20T22:56:00.000-08:00

In Conclusion

2010-01-19T09:12:00.000-08:00

Regarding lack of trust: I would rather be wrong than be right.

Whadda Ya Gonna Do???

2010-01-18T18:12:00.000-08:00

In my Italian kick for the day, I've been missing The Sopranos. What an excellent show... one I wish would've never ended. Sigh. Alas, all good things must come to an end. ;)

Memories, Sweet Memories

2010-01-18T16:34:00.000-08:00

Missing my grandmother today, my lovely, warm, Italian grandmother. So what better way to go through pictures than to have Dean Martin playing in the background. Ah, nothing like my grammy and her delicious Italian cooking. I am so proud of my Italian and Irish heritage. I am looking forward to one day doing an ancestral search.

Ah, in the meantime, sway along with me and maka some anti pasto tonight!

Needed Something Beautiful to Look at Today

2010-01-18T14:30:00.000-08:00

... and Criss Angel (will always) fit the bill.

Grateful Dead: What Rainy Days Were Made For

2010-01-18T11:51:00.000-08:00

Crackin' Ma Head Up

2010-01-16T23:28:00.001-08:00

Peter Paul and Mary

2010-01-15T14:19:00.000-08:00

My mother used to sing this song to me as a child and it was indeed a magical story to me. The movie from the 80s will always be dear to my heart.

This is such a beautiful version of the song. Enjoy.

What Would Jesus Do?

2010-01-13T16:24:00.000-08:00

Pat Robertson on Haiti Disaster
by burghnews

Our Brothers and Sisters in Haiti

2010-01-13T12:01:00.000-08:00

From MMW.

This list was compiled by Chris Sacca, and the links are verified legitimate.

1) Text “HAITI” to “90999″ to donate $10 to the Red Cross — Our friends at the US State Department, including Katie Stanton (@kateatstate), very quickly put together this number to channel relief contributions directly to first responders who will be on the ground there.

2) Text “Yele” to 501501 to donate $5 to Yele Haiti – Wyclef Jean of the Black Eyed Peas created this foundation to permanently improve the lives of the most impoverished in his home country of Haiti. Check out more on Yele Haiti.

3) Donate to Partners in Health (click here) — PIH (@pih_org) is already on the ground in Haiti and mobilizing their relief efforts. If you have heard of Paul Farmer, this is the organization he co-founded. Working to provide health care and education to the poorest of Haiti, PIH is the real deal.

4) Donate to Architecture for Humanity (click here) — Cameron Sinclair (@casinclair) and his non-profit Architecture for Humanity (@archforhumanity) can be found at virtually every developing world disaster site on the planet. These guys are a collection of design and housing geniuses who work tirelessly to provide shelter for the most deserving.

5) Donate to charity:water (click here) — charity:water work to bring clean water to the 1 billion people on the planet who don’t have it. Recently, the organization’s founder Scott Harrison traveled to Haiti to commence operations in that country and already thousands of Haitians have clean water to drink. Every dollar of support to C:W goes fully and immediately to work in the field.

Knit Picky

2010-01-13T09:14:00.000-08:00

I am so enjoying learning how to knit. I have wanted to pick it up for some time now and have joyfully discovered what I thought to be true, which is that I am taking to it quite quickly. It's kind of funny though as I don't know anyone in my daily life who knits other than my mother-in-law who is in another state, so I learn from YouTube videos. But visual learning is the only way to understand a visual activity, at least for me. Reading from a book is much more difficult and even just looking at pictures doesn't do the trick. But anyway, it's really fun. AND... I am a certified vegan knitter! OK, well maybe not certified, but I am a dedicated vegan knitter... no wool, silk, or any other animal-derived yarns. Yay!

Umm...

2010-01-11T11:16:00.001-08:00

Impossible, but oh so cool!

Post-Freaky Styley

2010-01-11T10:32:00.000-08:00

I remember when this song first hit the airwaves back in '92. I was shocked to my core. This was my first taste of modern rock and it was at that moment that my long and great love affair with said music began and I haven't looked back since. ALWAYS love this song. Seen the band twice, both times good, but sure do wish I was at this show. The crowd is half the beauty of this version! And as always, peace to Hillel.

Oh No You Di-ent!!!

2010-01-11T08:57:00.000-08:00

Elana Baker, author of The New York Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Dance, here describes what it's like to be a giant, Mormon vagina. Pure awesomeness.

Gesundheit

2010-01-10T21:18:00.000-08:00

The best.

Tiny Dancer

2010-01-10T09:44:00.001-08:00

The Purity of Laughter

2010-01-06T14:30:00.001-08:00

2009: In Review

2010-01-03T21:10:00.000-08:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Move Ya Hips

2009-12-29T19:26:00.000-08:00

I can't listen to traditional and neo-traditional Indian music without involuntarily moving my body. Please to enjoy!

My Old Friend

2009-12-28T21:20:00.001-08:00

Fade to Black

2009-12-28T20:39:00.001-08:00

Best damn solo EVER.

The Perfect Bedtime Story, In French

2009-12-28T08:28:00.001-08:00

A most delightful little French child tells of a most harrowing-yet-hopeful tale. Listen, enjoy, pray your future children are as cute as she is. :)

I Have a New Favorite Artist

2009-12-27T07:39:00.000-08:00

That would be the talented Mister James Christensen. Just take a look (these are some of my favorites, so far!):

No Regrets

2009-12-16T20:19:00.001-08:00

Nothing like Mme. Piaf to express just what I feel. Je t'aime, Mme. Piaf...

FYI:

No, nothing at all, I regret nothing at all
Not the good, nor the bad. It is all the same.
No, nothing at all, I have no regrets about anything.
It is paid, wiped away, forgotten.
I am not concerned with the past, with my memories.
I set fire to my pains and pleasures,
I don't need them anymore.
I have wiped away my loves, and my troubles.
Swept them all away.
I am starting again from zero.

No, nothing at all, I have no regrets
Because from today, my life, my happiness, everything,
Starts with you!

CAPITALISM KILLS THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

2009-12-16T20:09:00.001-08:00

It's true, and I know this from both sides of the coin. Most prominently from behind the counter, as the working stiff who has to cater to the greedy hands of the buyers and the sellers. This is made manifest by having to work on Christmas Eve instead of being home with my family relaxing and enjoying their company. Working the day after Christmas - at 5:30 a.m. so people can rudely go out and return the gifts that they didn't like and buy yet even more shit they don't need.

And the same is true for another day of the year that I like to celebrate symbolically: New Year's Day. I'll be CLOSING on New Year's Eve and I'll be opening on New Year's Day - all instead of being home and celebrating the last day of this year and the first day of the new year. I am a somewhat sentimental person... I like the meaning behind these sorts of days and I like to be able to reflect upon an enjoy them. And now I can't, and it's all thanks to Capitalism.

Of course, this is just my little pity pot story - if you watch Michael Moore's new film Capitalism: A Love Story, you'll get a nice strong dose of the evils of capitalism on the grand scale. But for the everyday Judy, such as myself, enjoyment of life is extinguished.

Cry me a river, I know. But it's a noticeable result and I despise it.

And by the way, to the critics: yes, I too am a consumer. We all are. Every human being consumes, and we woud die if we didn't. I buy things I need. I buy things I don't need. Read my post again if you think I am a hypocrite, because what I am saying is that being held hostage to the demands of the general public and the money-grubbing of the capitalists behind the corporations and having to adjust my life and thus sacrafice the enjoyment of my life for this reason, is just the fucking pits. Period. Those of you who work retail know the woes of which I speak.

Do Re Mi

2009-12-12T20:36:00.000-08:00

Purely delightful.

Christmas Movies

2009-12-05T10:11:00.000-08:00

I've compiled a list of Christmas movies that I like to watch each year and thought I'd share them with you all. In order, here are my top 10 all time favorite Christmas movies.

10. Scrooged
9. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
8. The Polar Express
7. How the Grinch Stole Christmas
6. The Family Stone
5. Little Women
4. A Christmas Carol
3. A Christmas Story
2. Miracle on 34th St.
1. It's a Wonderful Life

Just the Boost I Needed Tonight

2009-12-04T20:18:00.000-08:00

Waiting for the Old and Ignorant to Die

2009-12-03T19:47:00.000-08:00

A Little Nightcap of Politics

2009-12-03T19:42:00.000-08:00

Ah yes, "Fair and Balanced," indeed...

In the Christmas Spirit

2009-12-02T18:12:00.001-08:00

I am feeling rather festive today, as I've been preparing Christmas gifts for my family and planning what to give friends and coworkers. I am so excited! I of course love getting a gift or two, but I am having the most joyous time planning gifts for others. Not to mention that we're doing a Secret Santa at work and I know just the thing to get my person (I actually got my boss! Yay!) So tomorrow, my last day off for a while, I will be gathering baking supplies and tins to give as gifts to friends and neighbors, bottles of wine and beer (to my other boss, she likes beer!) for others, and then knocking a few more things off my family's list. To the in-laws we're giving one of those neat electronic picture frames so I also have to get snappin' so they have some cute ones of the girls on there. Not to mention that me and the girls will be making gingerbread men, too. I am just so excited. And secretly, I am really looking forward to my (potential) gift from my husband - my first sewing machine - better than the one I was even hoping for! YAY!!!

I am just so much in a festive and giving mood right now. So here's a little gift for you, dear readers. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Nothing like the Mormon Tabernacle Choir beliting out Christmas carols and hymns. Nothin' better in the way of Christmas music, way I see it...

Two of my favorites:

Multifarious Me

2009-12-01T21:22:00.000-08:00

And beautiful Krisha to guide you to sleep...

400 Years

2009-12-01T21:04:00.000-08:00

Needed a little funky Reggae today and this fit the bill. Enjoy you some Bob, mon.

Let's make a move... Fools don't see...

My Inner Indian

2009-12-01T20:22:00.000-08:00

Today at work we were talking about our alter egos and I just couldn't think on my feet enough at the moment, so of course in true "me" fashion, I just realized what mine is. A beautiful and even sensual Indian woman. I often describe myself as an Indian woman trapped in an American woman's body. I.e., I am not as elegant as many of them are, but I would love to learn. I still have yet to take a belly dancing class, but it is on my short list of to-dos. After the Big Move, I am going to enroll in a yoga class and hopefully even connect up in some way with a belly dance instructor - hopefully they have those sorts of classes there, they're few and far between as it is!

So anyway, next time it comes up at work, I'll be able to tell them what's up!

Giving Thanks

2009-11-26T09:09:00.000-08:00

Here's a little something I wrote last year about the Holiday Season, and well, I still feel this way so I thought I'd share it again. :)

Happy Thanksgiving to all - friend, foe, those I know, and those whom I do not. May we all have somewhere to be and have someone to love.

Love to all

***

This is the time of year when my very soul is enlivened by the delicious scents of cinnamon and pumpkin spice, when apple cobblers and pumpkin pies are baked in our homes, when cozy boots, sweaters, and scarves clothe us all, when Halloween, Thanksgiving (my most beloved holiday) and Christmas impend their promised magic, when luscious wreathes adorn inviting doors, pumpkins are carved and their seeds baked, and Christmas music fills the air. The weather cools promising snow angels and icicles for many, when geese leave for winter, when children giggle as they whisper their greatest of wishes to Jolly St. Nic, when homes are warmed by blazing fires, when candlelight flickers and glows in windowsills, when families walk under the night sky to enjoy the neighborhood's lights, when friends stop in to enjoy a glass of mulled wine or spiced cider, when family visits from afar, and when stockings are hung by the chimney with care. When New York City is jiving with rosy-cheeked ice skaters, when Salt Lake City bustles with excited reverence while it's lighted Temple is a beacon in the nights, when choirs raise their voices in joy and praise, when parents become suddenly secretive so as to hide their family's gifts, when life ~ even if just for a while ~ is cheerful and sweet. When we lay aside our cares and worries, when we create with gladness in our hearts the very magic the season is intended for, when we come home and warm the chill from our fingertips, when we watch a little longer the the giddy playing of bundled children outside, when we sip our cocoa and slowly savor the marshmallows just that much more, when pieces of candy canes stick to content children's smiling cheeks, and when we relax in our warmed homes while our children play in the golden and rusty leaves outside. When Halloween begs us to give a trick or a treat, when Thanksgiving reminds us what is really important, when Christmas brings it's resounding joy. When we bring glad tidings to those less fortunate than ourselves.

Oh how I wish this were so year 'round, oh how I wish. Until such a time, I will hold tightly to my season, to the cheer in which my soul so delights!

NieNie on the Today Show

2009-11-24T08:27:00.000-08:00

Our beloved Stephanie Nielson is on the Today Show today. Please enjoy, and then go hug your loved ones!

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Mine Heart Doth Swell

2009-11-23T20:22:00.000-08:00

Man, oh man. This kid makes my heart swell with pride. Have you ever heard a more eloquent and well-spoken 10-year-old in your life?! May this child be blessed with a smooth and clear path in his studies of law in years to come and may the world be in turn blessed with his heart and mind to indeed create and promote 'liberty and justice for all".

I am just beaming right now!!

Long Live the Queen

2009-11-21T08:19:00.000-08:00

Last night I had the awesome opportunity to see comedy's Lovable Queen of Mean LIVE! Let's just put it this way: Lisa and I are new BFFs. ;) lol She's great. I had the ballz to go up to her after the show and ask her if she happened to be in need of a professional makeup artist. The door wasn't exactly a closed one...

So anyway, love Lisa. Check her out here, here, here, and here.

Being Thankful

2009-11-20T07:57:00.000-08:00

This post is a bit early this year, but, once again, Stephanie Nielson has inspired me this morning with this post.

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, my favorite, favorite, favorite. The main reason for this is because there is absolutely no greed involved at any time during the celebration. It is all about the opposite of greed - being thankful. Oh how I love that!

So if I may, I would love to list that which I am so very grateful for - from the important to the not-so-important:

* My husband, through thick and thin
* Our girls, for the joy they bring
* Our home, which keeps us warm
* Our car, 'cause she's trusty
* My job, it puts dinner on the table
* My mind, it keeps me entertained ;)
* The Internet, it keeps me connected
* Seasons, for keeping life interesting
* Autumn, for the coziness it brings
* Change, for the learning
* Hardship, to better appreciate the good
* Friends, with whom to enjoy life
* My cats! No explanation necessary
* Our good country, for opportunity and safety
* Our wonderful president, for his ability and strength
* Comedy, for cheering me on sad days
* Hope, for teaching me to have it

Really, there is much more. So many little things throughout the day that make me smile for feel comforted. Since I was a small girl I have always counted my blessings. And not out of guilt or requirement or fear, but really just because I have always been blessed with the understanding that I need to be grateful for what I have. Perhaps it came out of poverty, or loss, but whatever the reason, one more thing that I am grateful for is a time where everyone gives thanks. It doesn't matter to whom, some it's to their god, for others like me it's to my family, but either way, it is a really warm feeling to know that at least for one day, people across our great country are thankful all at once.

Lastly, please enjoy this warming message from the LDS church. Thank you!

Christmas Linkage!!

2009-11-18T09:06:00.000-08:00

OK. So this year I am working hard and saving money for our Big Move. So in lieu of said saving, Christmas this year is going to be more modest than it has been in years past. My husband insists on getting me something, so I told him I'll take on of these and one of these. I will be quite happy with those. Not to mention, my dear, sweet mother-in-law is getting me on of these. I am quite the lucky girl. I know exactly what I am going to get/do for each of our girls, and am still undecided on what to get DH. In fact, he is quite possibly the hardest person to shop for in the history of hardest people to shop for. This is mainly because he doesn't "need anything". Which, in terms of the reality of who he is, it's true. I wanted to get him one of these, but considering the move, I'll wait 'til we're settled into our new abode. Books are always something he'll enjoy, but which book is the real question at hand here. Perhaps a gift certificate? But then he'll just view it as money sitting there that could be used for more practical things. Oy vey, is he hard to shop for! Collections? His are full. Hobbies? None to speak of at the moment.

Sigh. I'll figure it out. In the meantime, I am just workin' my little tail off trying to save up for both Christmas and the move. Not to mention, come January, my hours will be cut down because the Holiday Shopping Rush will have ended. No significant complaints, though. All is indeed well.

Mme. Chanel at Home

2009-11-12T08:26:00.000-08:00

If I had the time (and maybe a more intense interest) I would love to study fashion. Moreover, interior design. But Mme. Chanel is a real inspiration to me for her fresh and classic fashion sense.

Art Nouveau

2009-11-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

Art Nouveau is one of my top two favorite periods for art, aside from Renaissance. Upon looking at both styles, I see in both a hint of romanticism and simply romance. I love discovering and analyzing things that I like!

Here are some examples:

Not For The Faint Of Heart

2009-11-04T19:00:00.001-08:00

This is so not for me, but I know a few people who would love it. *shudder*

If You Can't Do It, The Can Man Can!

2009-11-04T18:55:00.001-08:00

LDS Temples

2009-11-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

For anyone interested in learning about LDS temples. If anything, they're very beautiful!

Thank God For Acid

2009-11-03T20:56:00.000-08:00

Yep, They Do Got Talent

2009-10-27T21:44:00.000-07:00

This kid RULEZZZZZ

I Have Just One Thing To Say To You...

2009-10-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

OK. Tyra Banks is AWESOME!

You Are The Perfect Gift To The World

2009-10-26T14:11:00.000-07:00

On Being a Good Blogger

2009-10-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

Well, for starters, I am probably not one. I see a good blogger as someone who has lots of lovely pictures and tutorials and personal anecdotes to share with her readers. While this is what I want and aspire to be, right now I am not. Partly this is because I have yet to find my "voice", hence the name "Un Peu De Tout", French for "a little bit of everything" - because that's what I like, a little bit of everything. And while that can be endearing to some, myself included, it also doesn't create much of a readership of people who want to see what you come up with next. Several blogs on my sidebar have distinct voices and you kind of know what to expect from them. Mommyhood, crafting and/or sewing, cooking, religious stuff. I have a very eclectic set of things that I like, much of which does not fit well together. And while that is all well and good, I seem to have a strong resisitance to blogging about just one or two main topics as I am not totally into any one thing. I am a new makeup artist and maybe I'll find inspiration there, which I would love. I really enjoy Makeup Geek and perhaps I'll find my stride like she has. I love sewing and crafting, but for goodness' sake, I don't even have a sewing machine yet so there's no way that little old me can do any tutorials on making a darn thing. Homelife right now isn't something worth blogging about so that's out too. Maybe I have some readers out there despite the lack of a unifying thread tying some things together. I also am really apprehensive about expressing my political views and that's why I've kept my blog private for so long. I am pretty "lefty" at this point in my life and I know that strong opinions on either side of things are alienating. Yet, it is something that I would kind of feel incomplete without in my life, I really enjoy politics and news. Luckily I get to talk to my husband about all that so maybe I should just stick to talking about it with someone who understands my thinking and luckily agrees with most of my views.

Sigh. Well, I figure I'll keep plugging along and see what comes of it all. As I begin this new stage and career maybe something will arise I had not even expected. That would ne cool!

Your Sunday Lesson

2009-10-18T08:38:00.000-07:00

Today's Goodness

2009-10-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

Ah yes, the French Press. The only way that I make my coffee in the mornings. It's not that I think it is bad, per se, to use a coffee maker, but I just really like the ultra fresh flavor that comes from coffee brewed in a French Press.

Now that I have plenty of experience using it for coffee, I am going to look into brewing small batches of chai in it. I am not sure if it will work, actually, because every recipe I've read for making chai at home calls for the spices to be boiled for a time so as to fully release all flavors. We shall see. Today, in fact, I am off to one of my favorite local markets to see if I can't find all the spices I need to make me a batch of chai. I am really excited to try! Also, we have these most wonderful neighbors who keep bringing us tamales and other culinary goodness so I am going to bake them a batch of my Pumpkin Crumbles.

Got my work cut out for me, so off I go!

The Many Benefits of Yoga

2009-10-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

Physiological Benefits of Yoga
* Stable autonomic nervous system equilibrium * Pulse rate decreases * Respiratory rate decreases * Blood Pressure decreases (of special significance for hyporeactors) * Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) increases * EEG - alpha waves increase (theta, delta, and beta waves also increase during various stages of meditation) * EMG activity decreases * Cardiovascular efficiency increases * Respiratory efficiency increases * Gastrointestinal function normalizes * Endocrine function normalizes * Excretory functions improve * Musculoskeletal flexibility and joint range of motion increase * Breath-holding time increases * Joint range of motion increase * Grip strength increases * Eye-hand coordination improves * Dexterity skills improve * Reaction time improves * Posture improves * Strength and resiliency increase * Endurance increases * Energy level increases * Weight normalizes * Sleep improves * Immunity increases * Pain decreases * Steadiness improves * Depth perception improves * Balance improves * Integrated functioning of body parts improves

Psychological Benefits of Yoga
* Somatic and kinesthetic awareness increase * Mood improves and subjective well-being increases * Self-acceptance and self-actualization increase * Social adjustment increases * Anxiety and Depression decrease * Hostility decreases * Concentration improves * Memory improves * Attention improves * Learning efficiency improves * Mood improves * Self-actualization increase * Social skills increases * Well-being increases * Somatic and kinesthetic awareness increase * Self-acceptance increase * Attention improves * Concentration improves * Memory improves * Learning efficiency improves * Symbol coding improves * Depth perception improves * Flicker fusion frequency improves

Biochemical Benefits of Yoga
* Glucose decreases * Sodium decreases * Total cholesterol decreases * Triglycerides decrease * HDL cholesterol increases * LDL cholesterol decreases * VLDL cholesterol decreases * Cholinesterase increases * Catecholamines decrease * ATPase increases * Hematocrit increases * Hemoglobin increases * Lymphocyte count increases * Total white blood cell count decreases * Thyroxin increases * Vitamin C increases * Total serum protein increases

Benefits of Yoga Versus Benefits of Exercise

* Yoga Benefits
o Parasympathetic Nervous System dominates o Subcortical regions of brain dominate o Slow dynamic and static movements o Normalization of muscle tone o Low risk of injuring muscles and ligaments o Low caloric consumption o Effort is minimized, relaxed o Energizing (breathing is natural or controlled) o Balanced activity of opposing muscle groups o Noncompetitive, process-oriented o Awareness is internal (focus is on breath and the infinite) o Limitless possibilities for growth in self-awareness

* Exercise Benefits
o Sympathetic Nervous System dominates o Cortical regions of brain dominate o Rapid forceful movements o Increased muscle tension o Higher risk of injury o Moderate to high caloric consumption o Effort is maximized o Fatiguing (breathing is taxed) o Imbalance activity of opposing groups o Competitive, goal-oriented o Awareness is external (focus is on reaching the toes, reaching the finish line, etc.) o Boredom factor

*Lists borrowed from the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple website.

Movie Review: Hippie Masala

2009-10-07T20:55:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching Hippie Masala, a documentary film about 5 or so hippies that moved to India in the 60s and 70s in search of greater spiritual meaning. It was interesting and even enlightening. It has taken the mysitque out of life in India for me. While the terrain is absolutely stunning, I see what one man says in the film about it being beautiful to a visitor but to those who live there it is what it is. It seems that a woman's life in India is very difficult, too. Men feel that they can expect the women to do all the work, or at least most. One woman who married one of the Eurpoeans said that it was her dream to live out her life single, obviously so she could be in peace.

Also, I have heard that animals, especially cows are very revered in India, but I can't say I saw a life better than those in farms here. I guess I have a strange vision as to how animals should live. I bet if I had a farm people would laugh at me because my animals would have comfortable places to sleep, good food, clean environments, plenty of space, and lots of love - sans any fear of harm or death.

All in all though, an interesting film. I like learning about India and it's culture. I found it not too surprising that one man said that you could live there for 50 years and never be fully accepted. I wasn't too surprised because the same is true here. You will always be viewed as a foreigner, and will never be seen as only a member of that society.

Verdict: I am happy here in the States. I love my freedoms, I love belonging at least somewhere. I am an American, and that does mean something.

Rose Lassi

2009-10-07T20:18:00.001-07:00

Right now I am drinking my very first rose lassi. A traditional Indian drink used to aide digestion or is just simply enjoyed after meals. I may not have made it the best or right way, as I imagine it should taste a little better than it does. I added real rose petals so maybe next time I won't. Or maybe I won't add the rose water and see how that tastes. As I've been drinking it, I thought that a mint lassi would be good. We didn't grow mint this year because it pretty much takes over our garden so I'd have to get a bunch at the store, but it may be worth it.

Here's a recipe, for those so inclined:

LASSI:

About a cup of plain (unsweetened) yogurt {or indeed use sweetened and just don't add sweetener afterward}

rose water (can be found in Asian markets, but be careful which you get, mine seems fake...)

rose blossoms (optional)

A few teaspoons of honey (until it's sweet enough for you)

Whizzz it up in the blender (until it's frothy and smooth)

When There is No Pebble Tossed

2009-10-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

Ripple by the Grateful Dead, one of my all-time favorite bands. Needed some Dead today.

Because of One Great Man

2009-10-02T08:46:00.001-07:00

Today is the National Day of Non-Violence. This is because it is also the celebration of Gandhi's birth. Two great days in a row: yesterday was Vegetarianism day, and today this. Awesome. Gandhi was my first Hindu inspiration. As previously noted, I feel very connected with all things Indian, but as Indian culture is not very prominent in the States, I hadn't heard of this great man until I was in my teens. Now that I study Hinduism and Indian culture more academically, I have found it to be a pleasure to get to know this man more. The most beautiful part to me is that his message didn't die with him. Through his courage and efforts he is known, and thus his message is known. The UN recognized Gandhi's contribution to the world and has codified this day to be a national day of non-violence. I think he would be most pleased even if it is only one day. It is a start in the right direction.

Dear Naysayers:

2009-10-01T17:59:00.000-07:00

What a crying shame that this couldn't have been determined during Michael's life. I have ALWAYS been a strong M.J. supporter and never believed that he was bleaching his skin. He said he had vitiligo and I believed him. He was healthy at time of death, contrary to many reports that he was weak and depleted. How very sad that his life ended so soon, that his childrens' father has been forever taken from them, and that the world lost the best, nay, the GREATEST star the world has ever known.

Love ya, Michael. Wish I could have met you...

Jesus H. Christ Hangin' on the Cross

2009-10-01T09:21:00.000-07:00

These people (Phelp's people) are so. fucked. up. I am so grateful that I don't live anywhere near them. Oh my god...

Ms. Rai-Bachchan

2009-09-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

Does it get better than this? I think not.

The Most Awesome Country/Rock Collaboration Ever!

2009-09-28T08:10:00.001-07:00

Jack White and Loretta Lynn. Sweet.

This is Just... Comical

2009-09-27T20:15:00.000-07:00

Coming Soon to a Theatre Near YOU!

2009-09-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

Can't wait.

Wow. Just Wow.

2009-09-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

Something this cool couldn't even be imagined by the most creative of (earthly) minds. The Leafy Sea Dragon is my new favorite sea creature. Just fascinating and marvelous. What a beautiful world we live in.

A Message of Love

2009-09-18T15:36:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love President Monson. If I could have the chance to sit down and have lunch with him, I would pour my heart out to him and seek his advise.

Dirty Dancer

2009-09-14T22:25:00.000-07:00

R.I.P. Mr. Swayze. My mother was one of your biggest fans, and I was always fond of you, too. My favorite movie with Swayze was Overboard.

May you rest in peace, dear brother.

Bach's Toccata Fugue in D Minor

2009-09-13T14:32:00.001-07:00

The End of the World

2009-09-12T21:51:00.001-07:00

As we know it, that is...