Live..Laugh...Love..

2012-02-06T13:23:00.000-08:00

Notice your impulse to "do," fix, and/or manage your discomfort.

Notice your breathing. (Is it shallow? Is it relaxed?)

After you've scrolled through once, go down the list again and zero in on the ones that brought up some emotional weather. Use your clearing journal to release some charge:

Is there something in your purse or wallet that doesn't need to be there? Yes, a ton of papers

Is there something in the backseat or trunk of your car that's been there longer than a week (that doesn't need to be there)? Nope

Are you wearing something right now that you don't love, doesn't flatter you, or doesn't fit perfectly (yes, including underwear)? YES!!!

Is there something in your closet that you haven't worn in over a year? OH YEAH

Is your sock drawer a jumble of pair-less orphans? Sort of

Do you have stuff in the fridge or freezer that is over six months old?

Is there food that hasn't been put away? Some cereal boxes stored on counter

Are there dishes that need to be washed? Or put away?

Is there something on the refrigerator door that is expired, aged beyond recognition, not even noticeable?

Is there something on the floor that belongs on a surface or in a drawer? Probably

Do you have a plant that could use a little pruning, or watering?

Are there lights on that are not being used?

Do you have to dodge something to get past the entryway to your home? Nope

Are you feeling pissed-off at a family member, partner, or roommate for not doing their part to keep things clear and tidy? Sometimes, but not right now.

Is there something you're doing right now that can wait? No

Is there something you can do right now that would be a better use of your time? Yes

Is there something you can do right now that better matches your energy level? YES, SLEEEEP:)

Are you feeling any twinges (even a hint) of overwhelm or anxiety as you scroll down this list?

Are your buttons getting pressed by these questions?

Clearing Journal

Complete these statements in your journal:

Right now I'm feelin: a little worried

Sensations I experienced while doing this exercise were: laughter, realization

The problem areas that made me go into self-judgment, blame, overwhelm: the part asking about family members. I feel like maybe one of my family members gets frustrated with my lack of time to organize things!

One thing from the list that I can address right now/ sometime today is: Organizing my purse and sock drawer:)

Right now I'm feeling... [note: this is a new minute, notice if you're feeling the same or different than you did the last time you checked] Fine

Clearing My Home and Clearing My Life - Daily Om Course- Daily Reflections

2012-02-05T23:14:00.000-08:00

Clearing Journal

Right now I am feeling…:

Overwhelmed

One thing I wasn't previously aware of before today….: How easily I can be pursuaded to make purchases I might not be sure about

It is easy for me practice being aware when: When I quiet my mind and silence my thoughts and just breathe

Love

2012-01-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

After some of very tumultuous relationships

I look at my relationship with Rick and am soo grateful of how peaceful we are
how in love we are
how silly we are
kind
we
are.

We are passionate, gentle, and supportive.
We love our kids.
There is nothing I wouldn't trust him with and nothing I couldn't
count on him to do.

He is the best man I know.

I love him, and I can honestly say I am looking forward to
sharing his last name:)

THANK GOD FOR YOU RICARDO ISRAEL!

My beautiful Daughter and super elf:)

2011-12-21T13:27:00.000-08:00

Teihani is BEYOND wonderful!
I feel like I may have the world's most amazing daughter.
She gives without thinking of return.
She loves to help people.
She is a good sister.
She has such a loving and kind spirit.
She is not mean, and doesn't have a mean bone in her body.
She makes me laugh.
She is honest.
She is gentle.
She is strong!
Courageous.
Intelligent!
I love her!
I couldn't have asked for a more amazing young woman, to call my own daughter!
She is teaching me new things each day!

Teihani, thank you, for all that you do for others. You are an inspiration to me.

OH MY GOODNESS- I love my baby

2011-12-15T12:04:00.000-08:00

I can't even keep pictures of him up at my desk because it makes me lactate.... Isn't that WEIRD??? Well it does wonders for breast feeding cause when I go to pump at work, all I have to do is look at his pictures and my milk lets down:)
This morning, before going to Grandma Linda's house he woke up all bright eyed and happy like he always does, and just stared at me.
I learned some more baby signing so I shared some words with him and he threw his fists up. The Deaf call this babbling with his hands:)

My little Deaf boy is BEAUTIFUL!

Mikey's First Signing Word:)

2011-12-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

Hey, it's a start lol:)
I actually didn't even realize his fingers were in this position until I went through the photos!

December 12-12-11 Micah's Hearing Levels Confirmed

2011-12-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

So little Mr. babbling, Micah finally, after several long long tests, has had his hearing levels evaluated successfully.
This involved lots of comforting, sleeping, holding his head still instead of using his clever side to side maneuver to shake off the electrodes, our new doctor, Dr. Mancl of Childrens and UW health, had a different kind of quiet room, one with pillows and a reclining rocking chair.
I put Micah in my moby wrap and snuggled him close and the test was successful!

Afterwards, the doctors explained the results, and talked to us about communication opportunities. Including ASL/Speech cues/and the cochlear implant/hearing aids, etc.

My boy has hearing levels that are called Profound Permanent Hearing Loss. He didn't LOSE his hearing though, he never developed most levels of it. He is in the "profound" range which means he cannot hear speech, or regular household noises, but he can distantly hear things like vacuums, or blenders or loud trucks. As if they were across the street. The good thing is, he hears some things. The question is how can we help him communicate if he cannot hear letter pronunciation. We learn all methods, and teach him total communication, using speech cues, sign language, lip movement, and all other methods, combined into one to give him the best advantage.

He is a very visual little guy, he will laugh and talk and play and interact, you would never know that he is not hearing all sound levels. But as a Mommy, I did know, I always knew that if I am not in his range of vision, he cannot hear me sing, or talk. So I am always sure to speak in front of him or where he can see me. I use some exaggerated facial expressions and lots of and motions.

It is the 14th, 2 days later.

Suddenly everyone is an expert on the Deaf and the cochlear implant. Really?
Guess what, if you are not experienced IN THE DEAF community, I don't really want to hear about how you "studied" ASL in high school or something, and how you hear the entire Deaf community shuns implants. What you took a class and now you are an expert, now you are speaking on behalf of the ENTIRE Deaf community? Really?
SHUT UP.

Sorry had to get that off my chest. I am fortunate to know people who
can provide substantial information about Deaf children and individuals as well as experience around the cochlear implants, both the pros and cons.

I think friends just need to support us and love us not shove their misinformed opinions
in our faces.

The thing is, my son is, how he is. My feelings about putting him through invasive surgery to fix his hearing, to me, almost seems unnecessary. Yes it might make him fit in a little better with the majority. But what's wrong with being different? He is not alone, there are many deaf children. Someone said to me that sigh language is becoming outdated? Not combined with other communication methods. Who says it is outdated? There is an entire community of Deaf people who use ASL every day, and more and more are learning it, even many hearing folks! It is a specialized language and is everywhere!

My feelings about the cochlear implant is that are wonderful but I do not know if
it is the right choice for my son.
I realize that studies show that the earlier he gets them, the better his speech will develop but I am leaning towards letting this be HIS choice when he is old enough. I love him just the way he is, and I , in only 2 days have already learned like 15 baby sign words:) My whole family is on board with learning it. We have 8-12 months to think about it.

Peace world!

10 Weeks of Pure Baby Bliss

2011-10-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

Do you see that blue little boy? He quickly changed color but at first he sure was blue.Daddy and Mikey:)

My painted belly, by Teihani on 9/8/11 one day before Mikey came:)

My last month was a TOUGHY I tell ya, back pain, pelvis pain, shooting pains, thigh pains, you name it, I had it. AND STILL, I managed to keep working and still doing capoeira and yoga too. I don't know how I did it, it was pretty amazing and I still think back and am astounded at myself. The day I had Micah, I woke up so nervous, I couldn't sleep a wink the night before, I was so scared of what would happen. For months I had been thinking about the surgery (Micah was born via c-section) and the scariest part to me has always been the epidural. I had dreams of it and tried to focus more on how beautiful it would be to see Mikey and in the back of my mind, the lingering fear of complications lurked...
But, everything went well. At the moment of the epidural, my doctor and nurse and Rico and Tei held my hands, and helped me through as I shook and trembled and cried through silently. I was mortified, but I kept my head in Micah-mode:) Soon I heard my little boy's cry and saw his blueberry face which quickly changed to pinky colored.

AND I FELL MADLY IN LOVE
again.
with
Micah Jose Nahale Israel
6lbs 14 oz
19 inches long
9/9/11

Micah coming in only 1 week at 2 days! Yowza!

2011-08-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

The final count down! I can hear the back ground music playing as the end approaches.
My emotions are mixed, part of me wants him to stay safe in Mommy's belly, the other part of me wants him to ease up off my aching body parts!
Above and beyond any ache or pain, is the excitement to meet and to hold and to smell, this pudgy cheeked little angel!

I am finding that I am super sensitive, and snuggly right now. I want what I want when I want it, but really I dont want much.

I love time with my family and holding little Taylor in my arms. Can't wait for him to meet his uncle!

Life is good, and it makes me sad when people around me, dont appreciate or see the beauty that surrounds us! It is everywhere just inhale it!

I feel overwhelmed with baby joy, as my beautiful family grows:) Awwww this is the good life:)

Loving Life as Lola

2011-08-17T16:32:00.001-07:00

Taylor Leland Beck
Lola's beautiful baby boy is here!! He is going to be a month old soon! He is absolutely precious! The young parents are doing well, and SheAnna is feeling much better.
Taylor likes to sleep and eat and he makes the funniest little faces! He is a total suggle bug and I love nothing more than to just snuggle with him. He likes to sit with my on my patio, while the birds chirp and I sing him a song:)

He is such a blessing! Micah is going to just love his little nephew!

Pregnant Capoerista- Batizado Time! 8 months pregz

2011-08-17T16:23:00.001-07:00

Despite my aches and pains, allowing my body to move, actually feels good. It is the slow movements, or the resting that hurts the most! Can you believe my most painful time of day is at night when I lay down. Suddenly I can feel every aching part of my body and it is miserable! My Rico, is so wonderful to me, he just wants to "fix" it. He does everything he can, only to end up going to sleep feeling defeated by my back aches, but his trying, sure is the sweetest thing ever. Our capoeira group is having our Batizado this week.

All throughout pregnancy, I have trained sporadically and continued to play when I can, at home or in the park. Last time I played in front of a group, people came up to me after wards to shake my hand and tell me how amazing it was to see someone sooo pregnant, train. I didn't realize it was soo unusual..
I felt amazing.

Even with my belly semi in my way of some of my favorite kicks:) I got news today, that I have the green light to attend all Batizado festivities!
I am ecstatic, but I am not expecting too much of myself.
The bottom line is, I am going to take it really easy. If I can't do a thing, I will just face that I can't do the thing! Respect my body Listen to my body Hope Micah is in the belly enjoying the drums and movements.

AND if he does decide to pop out during the festivities, well then it will be the most special Batizado ever:)

Learning to Slow Down

2011-07-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

I am actively working on learning how to slow down my busy life! It's not easy, let me tell you. I am used to making my schedule jam packed with things, activities, and errands, but
my little belly baby is sending me messages via back-pain, to slow my roll.

It is a process!

I feel good though, and I have been spending time doing things I enjoy that are less strenuous, like vegging out at Moms house, snacking on fruit and watching movies, or taking a long bubble bath and hanging out at home snuggled up with my hunny watching movies.

Or snuggling up with Tei and taking a nap in the middle of the day. It feels so nice and relaxing.

I am now 31 weeks along and boy is my belly huge! I have those not so great feeling days when I just want to waddle into bed and sleep, cause I am just so round, and sometimes it is so uncomfortable on my hips. Plus doc keeps poking me for blood, over and over, and that is no fun. BUT I LOVE when I get to hear Micah's strong heart beat, and hearing how well he is doing makes me so happy. I still tear up everytime I hear his heart, and I always hug my belly as if I could reach in and embrace him. I seriously, cannot wait for the moment I meet my little boy.

Batatazhino - 26 weeks

2011-06-10T10:36:00.000-07:00

Baby's room slowly coming along:)

Micah my "Batatazhino" or "Little Potato"
I am 26 weeks, Micah is the size of a large eggplant.
He kicks all the time and has the cutest little hiccups, which I read, can be soothing to him.
Dad talks to him all the time, and gives both of us lots of kisses morning and night.
I got a boppy body pillow which is finally allowing me some good sleep!
I feel good, family is good, busy, but balanced and I even get to squeeze capoeira in, here and there. Which truly makes me happy:)
Big Sis Teihani, has spent time organizing Micah's clothes and helping get things ready. She talks to him sometimes and the other day her head was close to my belly and he kicked her, she was sleeping so she didn't know:)

Daddy has been painting Mica's bedroom shelf and he picked up my glider. Baby's room slowly coming along.

Life is soo full and plentiful and full of so much love and joy sometimes it's too much to embrace.

Life is beautiful.
I can't wait to hold Micah's little hand for the first time while he looks up at me with his Fathers gorgeous eyes:)

True Friendship

2011-06-03T09:34:00.000-07:00

A real friend knows that you love them,
even if you haven't spoken for weeks, months, and even years.

Time doesn't really exist between you, because when you do talk, it's
like you never missed a moment, and your friendship has not faded at all.

Friends respect and understand your busy life, full of responsibilities and
family obligations, and time alone or time with your loved one.

Friends know, that even on their worst day, if they called you and you didn't pick up, that you love them, and that not answering doesn't mean you
love them any less.

True friends know that you always want to see them happy.

Friends don't make you meet their unrealistic and unfair expectations, instead they love you for exactly who you are nothing more and nothing less.

If they do not love all that you are, they are not your friend.

Kind and Not-So-Kind Parenting

2011-06-03T09:01:00.000-07:00

Parenting, done with yelling, impatience, anger, and frustration, is like watering a flower with vinegar and soda. COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE.

I try really hard not to say anything when I see people I know use this emotionally unhealthy parenting approach, without any understanding of their child's feelings. It literally hurts me to be around it and to see the confused hurt look on their children's faces! These people, are loving, kind, sweet people, to their friends. But with their children, they are impatient and out of control. Guess what that does to their children? Make them impatient and out of control! Then their parents wonder "why is my child like this?" Hmmm.. I wonder... Why can't some parents understand that the language their children speak, is more action based then it is WORD based. So you can sit their and talk and talk and talk and talk and criticize and preach all you can, all they hear, is the action and feeling behind your words. For instance, a 3 year old, is in the mall, exhausted, she is screaming and crying, because as a 3 year old, she is not capable of expressing it like this:" I am a bit fatigued, and would prefer to take a nap then go shopping" Umm. No.
She is 3
You have to READ her actions. If she is starting to cry and fuss and complain, does it help to say things like: "do you want other children to see you laughing and make fun of you??? Then STOP crying!!!" To the child, this just sounds cruel. Then there's the hit, "if you don't stop I am going to spank your butt" yeah genius, hit your exhausted crying child, that will help her calm right down!!! Why didn't I think of that?? Or how about I HIT YOU??? Will that calm YOU DOWN?
Try distracting your child, if you really must shop right that moment, you should have brought,a place for the child to rest, like a folding stroller, some snacks, some books or toys to occupy them, and be prepared to take a few minutes here and there to interact and calm your child. Sorry, I had to vent, I know several people that parent, by unnecessary screaming and yelling, and hitting, and their children, are mostly ill mannered and frustrated, and constantly acting up. WHEN WITH THAT PARENT. Leave that same child alone with me, and they are calm, happy and well behaved. Doesn't take a rocket scientist!! PARENTING TAKES PATIENCE COMMUNICATION AND THE ABILITY TO LEARN YOUR CHILD'S LANGUAGE!!!!!

A Baby Shower for Elijah and Sheanna!! Ladies only please:)

2011-06-02T09:39:00.000-07:00

These are being popped in the mail today- so look out for them:) Ciao!

This Weekend

2011-05-31T09:29:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a weekend, somewhere in between two birthday celebrations, a wedding, Folk Life Festival, shopping, a sprained wrist, getting Teihani ready for camp, and family time,

we got to hang out with Sheanna (Elijah's baby mama to be), for the first time.

It has always saddened me a bit that we don't really know her. Her baby will be here in 2 short months. I know I have to build a relationship with her now, so she knows we will be part of her support network always.

I have met her before, even taken her to dinner, but I didn't really get to know her.
So we had her over for the whole weekend.

I took her to finish her baby registry, and to have dinner with my family where she got to meet all of our goofy counterparts:)
Everyone loved her and so do I.

They are soo young, that much is obvious, but I believe they have good nurturing instincts and that Sheanna will be a good Mommy, regardless of her age as long as she remembers to have patience and understanding at times when it feels impossible.
They seem love eachother, they are actually quite sweet together.
When all was done, ELijah said it was the best weekend of his life, and he has been all smiles ever since. He said he was soo happy to have all his favorite gals in one place, and that he wished Shawnna, his Auntie could have been there too.

All and all it was special, and I am thankful for the time we had with her.

To Micah

2011-05-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

One day, I hope you will get to read this Micah Jo,
I want to make sure you know
how much your Mom and Dad love each other.

We love spending time just snuggling and watching you move in my belly.

We like to imagine you sleeping, right in the middle of us all snuggled up and safe as can be.

We love watching you kick around when your Dad plays his favorite songs for you.

We are pretty crazy about each other and we're pretty crazy about you too,
little one:) Cannot wait to meet you and kiss those pudgy cheeks of yours.

24 Weeks!

2011-05-26T15:39:00.000-07:00

24 Weeks!!!

I am officially in my 6th month of pregnancy!
I can't even believe I only have 3 more months.
It sort of makes me sad to think of him outside of his safe little liquid haven.
I love feeling him move, and hiccup and just be, inside me, growing, and becoming.
Its amazing!

Here is what Micah looks like inside there this week!

Life is good, I feel great, my only complaints are back pain and sleepiness, and loss of appetite.
Arent I supposed to have the appetite of an insatiable beast right now?

Nothing sounds good, only papayas, different fruit, and maybe cold things like ice cream, or bubble tea.

We are still unpacking, having come close to finishing but I love our new home:)

Ups and Downs

2011-05-16T14:49:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy is sort of a mixed bag of goodies.
Some days you reach in and pull out candy, and toys and trinkets and flowers, you know all that warm happy FUZZY stuff:)
Other days, you reach in and the pit feels bottomless! Sort of yucky, and bleh. You know, like an old gummy bear at the bottom of your purse.
Our hormones during pregnancy are all over the place- and we are uber sensitive to emotions and feelings and our reactions are felt through to the soul.

All we need is for people to keep their word.
To be kind
Supportive
and to listen
or give BACK sometimes
Sometimes it feels like people just take take take and take some more and then call and see if they can take just a lil more..

Sometimes, I feel like I spend soo much time listening to all the worries
and problems of everyone else, and giving all my light and sunshine and happiness to
everyone else,

I saved none for me!

Resulting in, one, tired, super tired, and down Wendy..

Is this just what happens when your calling in life is the helper, supporter, listening and advice giver to those you love?
I don't think so, I think the same love should always be reciprocated.

So I am on listen strike, and hour long advice phone call protest, cause right now, I really need to listen, and care for me and take a little time to give me more hugs, and spend more time praying.

Love ME Week:) Self declared and well worth it!

My Astrological Chart- hmmmm interesting:)

2011-05-11T16:04:00.001-07:00

Here is the Astro Chart you requested:

Hi there, here is the interpretation of the astrological chart that you asked for. Thank you for visiting our web site. This report has been created especially for you. It represents your Unique picture at the time you were born and at the place you were born. If you are unsure of the exact time of day of your birth (or the date or the place), the reading will probably not seem as accurate as it could be in certain places, but other parts will seem to be very appropriate. You will notice at certain places in the reading that contradictory information seems to be given. This is to be expected, because the personality of most people is extremely complex. For example, at times we are quite shy and at other times we are very aggressive, and so forth. You will also notice that, at certain points in the reading, certain patterns may be repeated over and over, especially in a longer more detailed report than this one. This is also to be expected. This simply means that your horoscope has an extremely strong focus on this particular pattern and that you should pay extra close attention to what is said about it. Now, on with your Report!

Name: Wendy Cruz
February 7 1978
12:00 PM Time Zone is PST
San Francisco, CA

Rising Sign is in 04 Degrees Gemini
Extremely active by nature, you like to get around, meet people and do different things. Very restless, you just can't seem to stay put. You need to be involved in several projects at once in order to keep your mind stimulated. You like to read books and to write letters and to talk -- constantly. Seemingly ageless, you will always appear to be much younger than you really are. Very adaptable and inquisitive, you are always open to new ideas and experiences. A "jack-of-all-trades", you are lively and versatile. Because of the high nervous tension that you always seem to have, athletic activity would be a good way for you to burn off energy. But be careful of a tendency to experience things only superficially -- try to dig in and absorb things at a deeper level.

Sun is in 18 Degrees Aquarius.
You get bored with the status quo and are generally open to new things and ideas. An individualist and a free spirit, your friends are quite important to you as long as they do not try to tie you down by making too many emotional demands on you. Your thoughts are offbeat and you're a bit eccentric, but not always very changeable. As a matter of fact, you can be quite stubborn at times. Very fair-minded when dealing with large groups or broad issues, you are not always emotionally sensitive to the needs of individuals. Extremely objective, with good powers of observation, you would be qualified to study technical and complicated subjects, like science, computers or maybe even astrology.

Moon is in 21 Degrees Aquarius.
Very freedom-oriented, you must always be able to do what you wish, no matter what. You become stubborn and recalcitrant when others try to force you into a mold. You are a true democrat -- you are not a follower, but you enjoy being with those who are like-minded. You appreciate emotional self-control -- you practice it yourself and you look for it in others. You solve problems, including emotional ones, with your brains and intellect, not your feelings. Try to be tolerant of those who have powerful and obvious emotional responses -- not everyone is as objective, cool, dispassionate and detached as you are.

Mercury is in 04 Degrees Aquarius.
You tend to be very opinionated -- you have strongly felt notions about things and are quite vocal about expressing and defending them. Yet you are also an original thinker -- you enjoy shocking others with your offbeat, original thoughts. You appreciate and need mental and intellectual stimulation. Your judgment is usually fair and impartial -- you can be a good critic because you can remain objective and unemotional about most things.

Venus is in 22 Degrees Aquarius.
You are a friendly and outgoing individual, but close relationships are difficult for you to maintain due to your fear that they will cause you to lose your freedom. You attract friends and associates who are exciting, different and sometimes a bit odd. You are popular with others and enjoy working within a group toward group goals.

Mars is in 25 Degrees Cancer.
Your moods are very important to your overall well-being. You are confident and self-assertive when you are feeling upbeat, and you are retiring, irritable and grumpy when you get depressed about anything. Very sensitive, you wear your heart on your sleeve. You are easily angered whenever you think someone has slighted you. It is best for you to show your anger immediately and let it all out, rather than to try to hold it in or to hold grudges for a long time. You're extremely loyal and defensive of your family, neighborhood, community and culture.

Jupiter is in 26 Degrees Gemini.
You have a logical, detached, objective view of most things. Your interests are wide-ranging and you are an avid student, with expertise in many different areas. You love to work things out in your mind -- everything you do is reduced to an exercise in logic and reason. You have the ability to grasp abstractions and to deal successfully with the larger issues of life. Your overemphasis on developing your powerful intellect can cause your emotional and intuitive abilities to atrophy unless you consciously choose to exercise them.

Saturn is in 27 Degrees Leo.
Extremely self-reliant, you set very high standards of conduct and decorum for yourself, and you expect others with whom you associate to be that way, too. It is important that you had a strong father figure or role model early in life to mold your life course and direction. When you feel that those around you are unworthy or behaving badly, you withdraw, preferring solitude rather than associating with those who might besmirch your reputation.

Uranus is in 16 Degrees Scorpio.
You, and your peer group, demand to confront life at its deepest and most meaningful levels. Very compulsive and obsessive in your approach to everything, you will avoid anything that is casual or superficial, especially when it comes to relationships. You will seek out and explore new methods of healing as well as different ways to deal with deep-seated emotional problems.

Neptune is in 17 Degrees Sagittarius.
You, and your entire generation, are heavily involved in investigating and idealizing foreign and exotic intellectual systems and religious philosophies. The most extreme ideals will be pursued with gusto. You will be at the forefront of humanitarian attempts to improve the lot of those who are in need of assistance. You will be comfortable with the concept of the "global village."

Pluto is in 16 Degrees Libra.
For your entire generation, this is a time of radical changes in society's attitude toward marriage and interpersonal relationships. There is a general fear and awe at the power inherent in making emotional or contractual commitments -- they will not be entered into lightly.

Certified in Mental Health First Aid!

2011-05-09T12:15:00.000-07:00

Guess who is officially certified and finished a long long crash course in psychology courtesy of Union Gospel Mission, since we are required to have this training if we work on the UGM mental health team.
Moi! (mee)
I got my license on my fridge and errr-thang:)

I finished a course given by the National Institute of Mental Health to teach us how identify and help people suffering from mental illness, drug abuse disorders, and eating disorders.

The course taught us all about different kinds of disorders, their triggers, their signs and symptoms, and ways to provide first aid until the patient gets to a care facility, we also learned all of the area resources so that we can proved referrals, and act as advocates.
It was very fascinating, TIRING but fascinating.
I have to admit, I cried several times during the course, because we heard about allot of peoples' stories, one of which was told by a woman, Liz, whose brother was bi-polar and schizophrenic, and had disappeared, shortly after, his body was finally found in a field of John Does in Pennsylvania, this brave woman shared her story and I could feel every ounce of her pain.

So many stories, they hit me hard, because we all feel so helpless when someone we love is mentally ill. Especially if they suffer from

Anosognosia:

The inability to be aware of ones own mental illness... Because without their, or their partners compliance we cannot get help for these people, and they, don't think they need it.

Well, my journey will be long, and before I can go out and save the world, I have to finish a couple other classes in emergency response, and team orientations, then I will be able to go out and work with the mentally ill homeless community because I got so tired of wishing there was something I could do, I decided to DO SOMETHING.

Mental illness has touched my loved ones in the most painful of ways. I cannot stand by and watch other people suffer....

21 weeks

2011-05-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

I am 21 weeks along now, and Micah is kicking and moving and very active in the belly:)

He goes up by my ribs, down by my lower abodomen, and to the side and sometimes right up front right in the middle, like he is now. I can feel him, I am not sure what parts of him I am touching but it feels like a shoulder or his butt:)

The doctor says that he is likely to be stuck in a breech position, because of some random lining in my uterus that might be stopping him from moving to the upside down position. I sure hope my boy has enough room to move around in there!

I can't wait to meet him! To hug him and smell his cheek.. To nuzzle his face.
To comfort him..

I dream of him all the time.
After having children and loving them with every ounce of my life, it is hard to imagine feeling that immense love all over again, and I am soo looking forward to guiding another life. It is

He is going to have one huge, and loving family and also a few relatives that are his age, baby Mason, baby Austin, and baby Leland.

Lately I feel good, I have days where I feel like I am riding an emotional roller coaster without a seat belt. But overall I feel good. I feel loved, and my family is good to me. My hunny, is soo good to me. I can't imagine what I would do
without him.
He is my rock. He keeps me grounded and sane and he is so tender and supportive. Like a dream come true!

New house is warm and cozy, still unpacking but it feels right for our
growing family.

We are all healthy, we are all alive and life is good:)

Teihani, the movie maker:)

2011-05-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

My little film maker and Rico and I got to star in our first Music Video!!!

Beauty

2011-04-28T14:54:00.000-07:00

I find beauty in laugh wrinkles.
My daughters sleepy cheeks.
My hunny's eyes, a dark brown with hints of hazel.
His eyelashes...

I find beauty in my stretch marks and a growing belly.
I find beauty in my son's laughter.

I find beauty in the sky and green leaves
in the love story of a homeless couple I met

Dave and Lynette

Beauty lies in the lovers eye
it lives in the moments spent
in silence
when touch
and the breath
speaks immeasurable words
without a sound

beauty lies in sincerity
in the inability to be vain
or cruel

it swims in the soul
of those who truly care
who truly love

who truly feel....

It's a Boy!!!

2011-04-27T14:09:00.000-07:00

Micah Jose Israel
I cant wait to meet my little boy on September 13, 2011.

We found out it was a boy on 4/26/11.

I was hoping to be surprised but Daddy wanted to know, so we did what was fair, and we flipped for it. Tails he won. Over and over and over, and the sweetheart even tried to give me best out of three, then best out of five, then even one last try! It was sweet of him but I knew, I lost fair and square.

Fate wanted us to know! Which is a good thing because I was so sure of it being a girl that I bought girl clothes and everything and well, I sure was wrong!
I cant wait to meet my sweet little baby boy!

We are trying to figure out wedding plans, do we do it in Hawaii before baby comes? Or after baby comes?? Hmmmmmmm

Well since I have been approved for 3 months off of work, I am starting to think we should go to Hawaii and get married during my last month of leave, that way we can stay a while:)

life.....

2011-04-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

It seems like just yesterday when Elijah was 3. Now my boy is almost 17 and going to be a Dad.

At first, when Elijah hesitantly, shared the news with me. I was angry, I was sad, I was disappointed, and scared. I was worried that my son was signing up for a life of difficulty, struggle, and trials no young man should endure before seeing the world, taking in the beauty of distant lands and loves.
I just wanted so much more for him.

But as you know, I too, fell in puppy love at 12 and was 16 when we found out I was pregnant. We had our son, Elijah, at 17. One choice that I did not want to pass down to my own children was the choice to become a very young parent.

Because even though I was a good Mother, I should have waited, until we were both much more mature. We were just so sure that our life was perfect, and that we would provide a perfect upbringing for our son, and the world seemed like it would bend to our will. But we struggled, and had to juggle parenting with self discovery and that, my friends, is why we should have waited.

We are different people at 17 than we are at 20, or 25, or 30 and our patience and wisdom, grows with age and our children deserve to have adults as parents, not children, as parents, children that are still learning soo much about the essentials of life...

However,

when I told my parents, I was not met with anger, I was met with support, and love. When we told his parents, we were not scolded or yelled at, we were met with even more support and love.

So my reaction to my son's news didn't reflect that... I yelled, cried,probably scared Elijah half to death, and felt sick for days. It was fear...
All I wanted, was for him to live, see the world, and have countless adventures before being tied down by family.

I wanted him to be free and able to do as he pleased without the heavy worries of life's big responsibilities, at 17, or worrying about having a sitter so he can finish school, or take a test, or work his first job. So on and so forth my mind was reeling with confusion and worry....

I was heart broken, almost the point of utter denial. I never spoke of it to anyone but my children or Rico, plus since I am pregnant too, I just kept thinking of how life was about to go spinning out of control for all of us and the life I have always considered light, happy and blessed was going to take a hard turn.

But time passed, and I lifted my hands to God and prayed daily, to give me strength to help see my son through this. He is terrified, and worried that he now has a hopeless future, probably because of how he was met with anger and sadness when he told us they were having a child.

I realized, now is the time to strengthen that backbone of mine, and test the courage, optimism, and strength I have always believe to be born into my soul, and be supportive of my son and their decision to have a baby.

God comforted me, and gave me back that strength and understanding and the ability to give my son hope, and support even if I do not agree with the decision, I will be loving and supportive of my son and any decision he makes.

I now, paint my babies room, knowing that it will be a room for two adorable little baby boys and I will LOVE, adore and treat Elijah's son, as my own, and I will hear the laughter and tears of those two boys and I won't even know what life was like, nor will I remember the day I was
saddened by the news of the arrival of my first grandson.
Because at that point all he will bring to my world is happiness.

I don't care about what anyone thinks, I care about what Elijah thinks. Of his future, and his goals, and what he can accomplish despite being a young Father. I care that he sees just as bright and full of a future as anyone else. I don't want him to lose faith or hope so I have to remind him that this will be a challenge
but that he can still accomplish ANYTHING he can dream up in that
peanut head of his:)

I can't wait to meet the little guy, and he already has a built in best-friend in my belly-baby, Micah:) Just like Elijah had his Rickey.

I might be one young Lola, but I am ready
Thanks for reading, as our family is growing, I am seeing my role morph and change and every part of that feels like a blessing even the little suprises:)

a womb made warrior

2011-03-25T15:20:00.000-07:00

oh you are mistaken littlest
of little ones
you will not grow to be
afraid of dark hallways and
shadows in the night
afraid of singing in front of crowds
or of being alone
you will not be left to
fight your greatest fights
or
face your deepest fears
a fragile glass like girl
with hope lost
in hopelessness
no no no
you will not
face a sunset
with the thoughts
of
the end.
You my girl, are not
doomed to be like him
-
you may have his eyes
his energy
his
lips
and charm
and all of that

but I did not
grow you in my belly from
molecules
to a beautiful strong
astounding young
womb made
warrior
-
so that you can give up
like him
I will not allow the world
to assign that fate to you my love
-
you my dear
were made with
a special something something
that will help you fight

the greatest fight

live long days
and the longest of nights

until you kiss some
precious baby toes
with your weathered lips.
toes and fingers
of which your own blood runs

you will see many moons and many suns
you will face many dark places with
a heart of fire

My dear girl
you are stronger than
you will ever know or comprehend
and you will never have thoughts of
the end.

* I was in a class that mentioned the high percentage of suicide among children who lost a parent by the suicide. At first I panicked, worrying that Teihani might be at a higher risk for suicide! My heart raced for what felt like days, everytime I thought of it..
I quickly signed us up for counseling and the whole bit, when to my surprise our counselor quit us. She said we didn't need her, that we communicate so well, and in such a healthy way that she thought our sessions weren't needed.
I realized, I had assigned the unnecessary grief to my girl, the possibilities that she was an exception to, and that with God, and all the love and support of those around her, she will be just fine.

Capoeirista Mami

2011-03-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

Capoeira Capoeira Capoeira Capoeira:)

Last night Teihani and I went to Renton to join a mixed class group for training and an
open roda.
It felt amazing to train, I even went in the roda. Did some cartwheels (A'us) and al kinds of kicks and esquivas. It felt great, of course it did , capoeira is essential to the happiness of my soul. When I have to stay away for long periods, I feel all sorts of out of balance.

The only difference in my game, was my instinct to back away from my opponent rather then the up close game I usually play. Have to protect the belly, but once I started to realize I had more control
I'm not too sore today and I felt only a tiny bit nauseated.

Here are the perks, this way combined with yoga, I can really (try to ) keep my prego-bod in shape!
AND baby gets to learn about capoeira super early as she is hearing the drums, singing and music from inside my tum tum.
AXE'!!!!!!!!

Do believe I will be having my tiny little capoeirista training as soon as she can walk:)
Or maybe HE? I did have 2 dreams already that I had a Micah, instead of an Amaleha. So maybe that's a sign?? Either way, I cant wait to kiss and smell baby cheeks! lol

First Cri-mester is Over! Woo hooo!

2011-03-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

I know it's supposed to be trimester but it has really been an awful couple of months. Hopefully ths 2nd trimester will bring with it, some normal feeling days! Fewer head aches, less nausea, an appetite and a libido. TMI?
Sorry...

So maybe, with the passing of this AWFUL morning sickness, I can re-gain focus on my creative aspirations.

Capoeira

THE SHOP

Jewelry Making

And Lumpia catering

It's time to get the ball rolling! Much to do, and hopefully I will now have the energy to make it all happen.

Oh here are the specs on the baby this week:)
She is the size of a big lemon now.. How precious! My sweet little lemon:)

I can feel her move already! Tiny little fluttering thumps on the inside of my lower tummy.

It is a miracle, new life.

I marvel each day at what miracles are happening in my body.
I am in Awww of the magic of it all.

I was snuggling Teihani and she told me she couldn't wait to have a baby brother or sister, it melts me how sweet she is with babies! She is a gentle nurturing love. She will be a tremendous helping hand. I am lucky to have the family that I have:) Might not be conventional, but it's just right for me:)

I'm such a UTI chicken!

2011-03-10T11:57:00.000-08:00

So, last weekend we went to San Francisco.

When we were about an hour into the flight, I felt this crazy urge to go to the restroom, when I did, at the tail end I thought I was breaking in two! There was an intense pain in my lower abdomen, and I gripped the walls of that tiny friggen bathroom and almost screamed. What I had was the result of holding my pee too long for the nights before. Cause I got soo tired of running to the bathroom 5 times a night.
I cherish my sleep, and my constant urge to run to the toilet was messing with my beauty rest.
End result, the first Bladder Infection of my 33 years of LIFE.
A very common thing during pregnancy....
NO BUENO

So first thing I did when we landed was call my doctor.
NOTE TO SELF: If you have to leave a voice always leave your name and birth date, or no one will know who they heck you are. Lesson learned.

I ended up leaving a mystery message about having a UTI and when the nurse called me back (message which I got AFTER biz hours on a Friday) she reminded me that she couldn't pass on the message cause she didn't know who I was.
DUH!!!! So after kicking myself a few times -
I drank the nastiest cranberry juice on EARTH, and took some cystex. After 3 days, it finally got better. But those three days were some of the worst of my life, oh, and they were
the days of my vacation.
Lovely.
Luckily, the smiles of my lovely friends and family distracted me somewhat from my UTI and highly emotional self. (Example: on our road trip down to Gilroy I cried for about 25 minutes, on the down low, you know looking out the window hoping no one notices, because I felt bad for all the cows that I could see roaming their pastures unaware of their inevitable fate).
What? I am an animal softy....

Somehow though my daughter ALWAYS knows if I have been crying. I told her it was allergies, not to lie but to not start thinking about the animals again!

Long story short, never holding my pee again, ever.. Cuz I am officially a UTI chicken!

13th week of prego-hood:)

2011-03-09T16:40:00.000-08:00

I am at my 13th week! Almost out of the first trimester (thank goodness!)
Although I am beaming with anticipation to meet my new little one, my body is feeling not so great.
Morning sickness now sticks around all day, and just about every food on earth makes me want to RALPH except for fruit.. So I live off of mintwater (peppermint of course) and lots of Fruit.

You can find Metro Mint at Whole Foods or QFC

They did the trick at first, now, not so much.

I am also adjusting to this new found pickiness about what I eat. I used to be something of an eat anything disposal of yummy foods. Now I am a total smell freak, fruit fiend and just about anything warm, doesn't appeal anymore.

I find myself asking myself, you don't like fries anymore? Who the heck are you?

In the midst of the madness, dealing with crazy deadlines at work, lots of after work STUFF and
taking care of my family, I have just been trying to remember that it is all for the best cause ever, LIFE!

We already have our NAMES I will tell you but you can't share it okay?
Our girl name ( and I tell you I am sure we are having a girl)
just my gut instinct;)

It is:
Amaleha Monroe Cruz Israel

Amaleha (pronounced like Awmalayah) is a name that pays homage to one of my dearest friends, Margaret. Her Moms name was Amalea and she passed when Margaret was young. Margaret spoke of her and showed me many pictures of her and I knew that was where my good friend got her beautiful smile, outrageous kindness, peacefulness, and silly sense of humor. Making her one of my favorite people on the planet till this day. I have always called her my Sister and a huge part of me believes that she is.

Margaret's first Daughters name is "Maleha" So we Teihani and I , sat on her bed and brainstormed names, and she mixed Amaliah with Maleha and we came up with Amaleha Monroe.

(yes, yes I totally budged on the name Sparrow, it wasn't easy but I just couldn't get my family on board! I can still call her Sparrow though..

Our boy name:
Micah Jose Cruz Israel

We are NOT going to find out what we are having- we are going to be surprised, can you imagine, I mean who does that??
US that's who:)
Rico has been wonderful, he is the backrubbing, hand massaging, comforting, loving, and snuggly dream come true for me, he makes sure I have bedside water all the time, and he asks me a hundred times a day what he can to help me feel better. He wakes me up with a bunch of kisses to my face and belly every single morning, it is so very sweet..He always kisses belly and speaks to baby too.. I am sure baby loves that:)

He just gets me, I can be a raging lunatic and he just calmly makes me feel better and he never gets mad BACK. This for me is astounding.

He is peaceful and calming. I love him.

I have found that there are things I adore, and things I really can't stand right now like:

I love baby clothes
I despise meanies
I love puppies
I despise people that yank their dogs around on the leash! EASE UP WILL YA! poor dog
I love the sunset
I despise the cold...
I love oranges, starfruits, kiwis
I despise anything FRIED
I LOVE to snuggle with my daughter
I love her smell
I despise dirty floors Especially hard wood
I LOVE cardigan sweaters
I despise my skinny jeans.....

By the way I am soooo totally showing, like I am having twins or something, it is crazy!
BUT we have already had 3 ultra sounds, and we only saw one little peanut.. :(
Ta ta for now, off to Christian Faith Center for the Vision Conference! Woo hooo.
Would God be angry if I skipped church so I can go home and SLEEP.. I wonder:)

A New Baby!!!

2011-03-09T09:15:00.000-08:00

Rico and I received some pretty surprising news! We are having a baby!
Now, between the two of us, we already have 3.
19, 16, and 12 years old.
Baby, makes 4:)

After the initial shock, and undeniable panic all due to the fact that we hadn't planned on having baby before having WEDDING. We were hoping to do that first..

I don't want to marry this man because I feel like a happy family has to consist of man wife and children. I think there are ABSOLUTELY many successful beautiful, loving and thriving families in all shapes and sizes, whether it be single Mom, single Dad, two Moms, Grandma and Cousin,two Dads, whatever it may be, family is family and they are NOT all the same. BUT they are all work of God, He makes NO mistakes!

Yes I am Christian, yes I support families of all types, it is not my job to judge, it is my job to love.

So, that being said, I just want to speak with my heart when I express that I want to marry him because I love him deeply, peacefully, contently, and infinitely. I think life is short!
Why not get married to the man I love?
That's why we are rushing, we don't know what tomorrow will bring...

Plus, let's face it, a baby-free honeymoon sounds ideal:)

We are now deciding how to shift things a bit to accommodate our newest little one.
I have no problem rockin' my wedding dress with a baby belly:)
My son said it would be the "most beautiful thing ever". How sweet:)

Yesterday was our first appointment, we have been acting as though we were maybe 6-8 weeks prego. But according to our doctor, we are more like 10-12. Tomorrow morning we will confirm the exact week, at our ultrasound.
Apparently, right now she is the size of a small lime!
I had a feeling I was a bit further along, but then, I noticed in my capoeira pants that I had a bit of a hardened baby bump.
I also, cant lay flat on my stomach!
All signs of nearing the end of my first trimester!
This is Sparrow, now.
She has little fingers, her brain is developing at 100 cells a minute!
Her tiny teeth beds are developing and even finger nails!
She has a tongue and lips and her spine is no longer tail-looking:)

Sparrow Amaliah Cruz Israel:)

Thats her name and I am sticking to it. The only other name I was really considering was Amaliah or Chloe.
Chloe Anuhea Cruz Israel
or
Chloe Amaliah Israel
Purty.
But I like Sparrow and her nickname will just be "bird"
Why Sparrow?
Because his eye is on the Sparrow, and I know he watches me.:)
Only a hand ful of people like it as much as I do, and that's fine, the questions is, how can I get RICO on board:)

2011-02-14T13:43:00.000-08:00

walk with me
away in the skies
we will own the shores
and move with the tide
your days will come and go
with me
where time matters not

we will dance in the stars and
love in the sun

with me
your smile will rule the world
you will be the king of love

with me there are endless
delicate silk hills
and golden
warm moons

with me

Running 101

2011-01-05T13:59:00.000-08:00

I went for my first long run yesterday with my Son.
He is 16
He is in shape
he is 16 and he is
IN SHAPE

But he didnt leave me in the dust, he even looped around and came back for me as I did the "I think I can" up East Union hill.

We did a series of Sprint/jog/walk for 20 seconds

Sprint as fast as you can until your about to faint, then slow to a jog, until your about to faint again, then walk for 20 seconds.

It is next day, we ran about 3 miles, and my abs are super contracted, and my calves a bit sore, and yet I will still be going to Capoeira class tonight.

My ultimate goal.
BURN OFF THIS WEIGHT ONCE AND FOR ALL.

No more talking about it, now I am going to BE about it.

Easier said that donek, considering the fact that I am totally and madly inlove with FOOD.
My Son said, Mom, give up like, fries and desserts, and I said "Not gonna happen"
Then he said, "well then give up chocolate" to which my response was
"what are you crazy?"

I can cut down, but I dont believe in total elimination I mean, that's like mideival torture.
So if I run and Capoeira and Yoga enough, maybe I can eat what the heck I want and still be svelt. What do you think?

Boot/Bag LUST!

2010-12-30T11:57:00.000-08:00

Dear bag...
I watch you from afar..
I guess I am obsessed.
You awaken feeling inside of me
You bring my heart beat to rapid speed and
tiny little sweat drops to my face.
I want you.. I want you bad...
I have GOT to have you..
You beautiful bag...

MARC BY MARC JACOBS
Click for more info on this bag I am going after, till it is mine:)

Boots Galore from Piperlime

OOOH Gotta have these!!!
Click on the photos to go to the piperlime shop for more gorgeous boots and bags!

Effortless Prosperity- Day 14

2010-12-14T13:51:00.001-08:00

14 I RECOGNIZE MY OWN BEST INTEREST

I am aware that whatever I see is only a small part of the whole picture. Because I cannot see the whole picture, usually what I think is good for me is not, and what I think will hurt me is actually helpful. In opening myself to this knowledge, I finally understand that I can let go ...of taking a chance at being right or wrong, because my own best interest is what is always being served in my life. Today I give up resistance and recognize my own best interest.

ASSIGNMENT FOR DAY 14
Hug someone you normally would not hug. This is to be a sincere hug, not a quick one. What goes through your mind and how do you feel about yourself as you hug this person?

Affirmation: Peace is all I deserve
Remember to keep your word today.

Finding time for YOU

2010-12-14T13:34:00.000-08:00

We are sisters moms managers writers teachers nurses entrepeneurs pots cooks maids designers dreamers lovers and miracle workers How in the midst of it all, do we find time for ourselves? Making time to do, what keeps you balanced, and happy and sane, may feel self involved, but it is self development self-esteem is built with the little shiny blocks of self-love. Do you give yourself time to enjoy yourself, be with yourself, and love yourself! You will be a better person for it. What are some ways you spend time loving yourself? One of my favorites, is a hot bubble bath, with a DVD and a glass of plum wine. I spend all the time I want, grooming, pampering and treating myself, and just being alone with me. I allow all the stress to fall away and melt away and I just feel in love with the person, the being, the spirit, and the stillness within me.

Yoga

2010-12-14T11:43:00.000-08:00

Let's face it, I am not the most flexible person on the planet, I am not even the most flexible person on my couch.
BUT I love yoga.
It loves me to, well it at least has a slight feeling similar to like, for me.

It is my quiet time to tell my body I love it. I love it enough to be centered within it.
I love it enough to stretch it out and open it up.
Yoga for me is almost emotional, it makes me feel grateful. Peaceful, and most of all I feel like I am being true -to - me when I practice.
It is my happy place.

Samarya Center

Quiet Reflection

2010-12-14T10:47:00.000-08:00

A new year is upon us and in hind sight, atleast for me, this has been one intense year full of dreams, change, obstacles, strength and growth.

As I make my list of goals for 2011, I think to myself, how can I streamline and center
my priorities and my thoughts?
How can I organize my life to make room for my dreams?

REMOVE THE FEAR

that's the answer to it all......

Turkey- A beautiful adventure with my baby

2010-12-13T11:59:00.000-08:00

TURKISH DELIGHT!! Yum yum

She loved this place, the ruins of Side, and this theatre has such amazing acoustics, that you can hear the stage from anywhere in the theatre, without a microphone.

She is my heart.

Teihani in Antalya and Attalia

The beautiful view from a yacht cruising past Kemer

Pool side chillaxin!
By far our favorite Turkish past time;)

I didn't take this photo, but I wish I could have seen Antalya from wherever this was taken!

Mustering up some "fashion-give-a-shit"

2010-12-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

Thanks to inspiration from Ms. Mercado- I am going to devote an extra few minutes each day to muster up some fashion give-a-shit.

Cause I apparently removed my finger from the pulse of fashion quite some time ago, and replaced my give-a-shit edginess with

Umm- grey. Light grey, dark grey, black, dark blue denim, more denim, and more GREY. Some brown, some green, yeah….mostly grey.

My daughter kept saying to me that I needed to be more funky and my son told me to wear COLORS. I was like why? Then he said how about red Mom, or blue? I pointed to my stripe socks hiding under my wide legs, “there’s your red and blue”.

So I bought some converse, thinking that might add a little casual funk.

Didn't do the trick apparently. So I bought black casual boots, a couple belts to strap around and adorn my lose cardigans. But I never wear them. So, I bought some bright rain boots, a fedora and skinny jeans. Okay, so there is my start.

What about white cotton organic v-neck tees?

What about a cute green blazer on top of that organic v-neck tee?

What about some black skinnies and my favorite brown boots with that blazer and v-neck tee?

What about colorful tunics galore to wear with my skinny jeans or thick pencil jeggings and my boots and long cardigan? I can keep my favorite color (grey) in the key pieces like the cardigan,

as long as I add some color to the top.

The idea here is color and contrast, complimentary contrast.

Bearing in mind that the clothes on those darn mannequins dont exactly fall that way on women with SHAPE such as myself.. I just have to find the right SHAPE of clothing.

Not an easy task I might add, but if you have a great 12 year old shopping buddy like my daughter, it helps to have a second set of eyes and some coffee:)

This is day one folks, work with me here:)

Vegetarian Tacos or Nachos

2010-09-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

One of my very best kid-friendly recipes to date:

Vegetarian Tacos

1 Package of Taco Seasoned (Yves if you Please) Taco Stuffer
1 white onion
1 bunch of green onions
1 bunch of cilantro
2 limes
1 bag of mixed shredded cheese
1 container of sour cream

either corn tortillas or hard taco shells

To prepare your mix, chop up all your veggies (except for yourtomatos cilantro and avocado)

Put half of the chopped stuff aside.
Throw the other half into a medium heat skillet, sautee and then throw in 1-3 packets of Yves if you please

Cook until slight more browned and set aside

Really the rest aint rocket science, you warm up the corn tortillas or you warm the shells in the oven for only a few minutes at 300. Chop up your avocado to top your sour cream, and your good to go.

To make Pica De Gallo- chop up your tomato, and mix with two squeezed limes and cliantro, and all the chopped veggies you put aside earlier.

VOILA! You made some very meaty tasting meat free- tacos!
Ciao!

How To Be Alone

2010-09-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

Oh yes. I love my alone time, those days that I dont answer my phone, or text, or email, I am celebrating me. I am not ignoring you, I am just giving my soul a hug:) I love my alone time, maybe because I actually, sincerely love me....

KNit Crazy

2010-09-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

With the chilly season among us, it is tempting to wear the same three button up cardigans or drapey knits, over your favorite tee and jeans, but tis the season to be creative.

Check out these amazing knits that will update any outfit.

Think dark black leggings with your favorite black or grey riding boots. Softest cotton v-necks and thick chunky knits, something sexy like you would wear it with your sweetie around a camp fire.

All Saints.. Is not your average online store. Their pieces are funky, unique and just one piece can update your entire outfit.

GUESS WHO IS COMING TO SEATTLE! ALL SAINTS BABY! THe store will open right across from Westlake. I cannot wait!

Inevitable Boredom

2010-08-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

You have me now
so what will we do?
Sing me a song
rub my feet
carress my back
read me your heavenly written words
scribble across the page in dull lead
kiss my cheek
you have me now
the time passes slow
still I dont go
still I dont go
For now I am yours
excited and intrigued
you are an adventure
you are a dream
I am ears wide open and eyes wide shut
You fill void
You pour divinity into my cup
If ever there was
a person more bright
if ever there could be a more perfect light
You are the beginning and the end and
all in between
but I will fly away inevitably

2010-08-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

What is a dream if not be

the lonely call out to the

world one does not

know

the hope to live in a warm red place

a chance to breath in the pure beauty

that has no boundary

what is a dream if not the ability to face

you deepest fears

deepest needs

what lies within the conquered dreamer

other than

complacency

and or the fear of love

the fear of

self

New Website!

2010-02-23T09:19:00.000-08:00

My darlings my dears, though few and far in between:)
I have three new websites for your viewing and reading enjoyment

www.prettypeepers.weebly.com
www.melleuxyelleux.com
www.lumpialady.weebly.com

Be sure to check my site out and stay tuned for new items and for the grand opening of the boutique! Ciao!

New Website and Blog is MOVING:)

2010-02-08T09:18:00.001-08:00

www.melleuxyelleuxcom

It also has a blog section where I will most likely be creating all my new posts. I will see if there is someway to link this blog to that one.

I am officially 32 whoppin years old!

I can't complain:) I feel fabulously divine:)

Your own shoe stylist

2010-01-27T10:24:00.000-08:00

I was flipping through magazines when I came across a little Kim Kardashian bit about a new shoe bizz she is endorsing calls Shoe Dazzle. It is a website that selects shoes for you based on your style and will ship them right to you each month after you have approved or changed the shoe selection.

I went onto to the Shoe Dazzle site and began to answer a series of multiple choice questions, such as who has better style, Rihanna, Jennifer Aniston, or Reese Witherspoon and questions where you have to select your favorite runway outfit and favorite shoe styles.

Within 24 hours one of the three stylists will email me when some shoes have been selected just for me! The service costs on 40 bucks a month!

I cant wait to see what they select for me. I will let you know how the shoes are, and whether or not they are good quality and comfortable.

Click here to check out Shoe Dazzle!

Dreams to Conquer- 2010

2010-01-23T14:03:00.000-08:00

Move back to Seattle
Open up small store in the storefront space of new house
Finish up my novel and look into publishing
Lose 25lbs
Be consistent in yoga and capoeira if my body can take it
Get Healthy and strong
Write more poetry
Travel
Build my website
Make lots of jewelry
Love love love
Revamp my wardrobe
Remove the lump...
RUN
Master vegetarian cooking
Take my vitamins
Get my family to volunteer with me!
Send donations to my favorite charities
Take photos- of every beautiful thing I see
Plan and take atleast 2 trips
Push myself
check off everything on this list!

BOMB Garden Burgers

2010-01-23T08:18:00.000-08:00

Do you have canned pinto beans just sitting in your cabinet? Who knew you could make heavenly veggie burgers with some pinto beans! And they taste amaaaazing!

Total Time: 41 min
Prep Time: 25 min
Cook Time: 16 min

2 can(s) (15-ounce) pinto beans
8 ounce(s) fresh white mushrooms, finely chopped
1/2 cup(s) shelled edamame
2 small carrots, finely grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 1/2 cup(s) panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoon(s) chopped fresh cilantro
1 large egg white
3/4 teaspoon(s) salt
1/2 teaspoon(s) freshl ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon(s) ground cumin
4 teaspoon(s) olive olive
10 English muffins

Directions
Drain and rinse pinto beans. In a medium bowl, lightly mash beans. Toss with mushrooms, edamame, carrots, onion, panko bread crumbs, and cilantro.

Mix in egg white, salt, pepper, and cumin. Form into 10 patties. Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Fry patties in 2 batches until golden, about 8 minutes per side. Serve on an English muffin and garnish as desired.

Finger licken' gooood!

Not Your Average Big Banana Yellow Rain Coat

2010-01-22T10:31:00.000-08:00

After searching and searching for rain coats that my Grandmother wouldnt wear:) I found some cute well cut coats that are flattering, tough and waterproof.

REI Raindance Jacket.

Click Here to visit the REI website.

This is the Stussy Structure Rain coat- comes in a deep indigo blue too!

Click here to visit the Stussy web site

North Face Grace Rain Jacket

I love the belted waist!

Click here to vist the REI web site to purchase yours.

The Soiya and Kio Double Breasted rain coat, from Nordstroms.

Click here to go to Nordstrom.com.

So there you have it, rain coats are no longer embarrassing giant yellow poncho looking hand me downs:)

See my next post about funky fashionable and trendy rain boots and You are all set to make a "splash" :)

Ciao!

Baby It's Cold Outside

2010-01-22T10:04:00.000-08:00

Not sure how to "weather" this rainy weather? Well for starters, you need some

cute ass rain boots!

Tokidoki and Chooka created these fun and super funky boots below: You can find them on Amazon or Nordstrom.com

Click on the pictures below to check out more Nomad Rain Boots

Cowboy style rain boots by Nomad Click here to go SHOES.COM to check out their rain boot selection!

With some cute rain gear, and a good strong umbrella. Thats how.

Of course it doesnt hurt to have a couple move dates, your favorite scarf, and a hot cinnamon latte or hazelnut soy mocha.

You can also stick with the basic colors and more simple styles of Hunter rain boots. Also found at Nordstrom.com. Click her to check out ttheir Hunter selection!

Happy splashin' folks:)

Young Coconut Bowl

2010-01-21T16:25:00.001-08:00

I recently tasted something similar to this and it was to die for! I simply added a couple little things to perfect it and I now have the perfect, halthy filling way to start your meatless day:)

Ingredients:

One Young Coconut

Some coconut flakes (about two teaspoons)

a couple apples of any kind

1 small bag of pecans

one table spoo of cinnamon

some organic maple syrup

Break open your young coconut and scrape out the meat, try not to srape the walls of the coconut.

Place all your coconut in a blender

Core and chop up your apples, you can leave the skin on if you'd like

Put the chopped apple in the blender along with your pecans

Blend well until smooth slightly lumpy

Poorinto a bowl and top with a couple dashes of cinnamon and a nice light drizzle of your maple syrup. Try it!

It is gooooooooood!!!!! Very filling too:) yummmmy

Learning to Face Risks

2010-01-20T11:16:00.001-08:00

It is a part of our nature to learn and to grow. And one way we do this is by taking risks. When we learned to walk, we risked falling down. We are constantly striving to better ourselves and our lives, and we can't do that by standing still. Our instincts urge us to move forward, to see what is ahead, to peek around the corner not knowing for sure what we might find.

Take a chance. The biggest rewards also had the biggest risks.

Getting Ready for Our Big Move

2010-01-20T11:01:00.001-08:00

Granted, I havent even SEEN our new place in person yet, only pictures and paperwork with our new address sprawled across the pages. Having been inspired by the thunder storms, rain and winds, and eclectic vibe of downtown San Francisco, and all of its ethnic diversity.

I have begun to shop for home decor, trusting my gut instincts and a few great photos of our soon to be home.

My new goal is to try to decorate the whole place organically. Both in concept and in materials.

Firt thing first!
I need more inspiration.

A combinationof Ikea, and the photos on the Room Decorating Ideas website, and voila! I may have got something here.

I am going to try to give our living room an organic and meditative outdoor feel, with a deep rich colors balanced light shades of grey and cream.
Think, deep rich vibe of Indian nights meets breezy relaxed Fiji.

Our front room, bathroom and bedrooms, are all very earthy colors. Sage green walls, dark bamboo flooring. This is our new master bathroom. In an earlier post I talk about vinyl wall decor, which I am definitely going to use, in the bathroom (white birds on the wall) and trees/leaves on living room wall.

Calla Lilly decals on the bathroom wall.

Something like this in the master bedroom-

Living room:

since there is an oversized window and soo much natural lighting, this would be a nice addition behind the couch

Needless to say I am more than excited to decorate our new home:) I willlikely spend a day at Ikea, shoot, if I could I would spend the night and keep on shopping the next day:)

Boys play house, men make homes:

2010-01-15T16:33:00.001-08:00

Boys bring stress

Men bring comfort

Boys make a mess of things

Men bring everything together

Boys point out your flaws and fears

Men help you face and overcome them

Boys start fights

Men create solutions

Boys make matters worse

Men know what matters

Boys are looking for someone to take care of them

Men treat women with the same respect as they treat their mothers

Boys party all the time

Men celebrate the moments that are worth celebrating

Boys strive on hurting others

Men strive on helping others

Boys like to be flashy and materialistic

Men find their pride in the stability of their families and homes

Boys jump from job to job

Men strive for their dreams and goals

Boys jump from girl to girl

Men cherish a good woman and hold on tight

Boys play house

Men, make homes.

Volunteer Opportunities

2010-01-13T15:05:00.000-08:00

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, to be gorgeous, talented, and fabulous. Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that others won't feel insecure around you. We are born to make manifest the glory of God within us. And as we let our light shine, we consciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear our presence automatically liberates others. - Marianne Williamson

In each of us shines a great light, it is up to us to allow that light to shine to it's fullest capacity. That being said I was thinking this morning of ways to help others internationally. Then it reminded me that so much help is needed locally. Plus the Center for international disaster information also states that volunteers will not be accepted to travel overseas for disaster relief efforts unless they have prior volunteer experience.

In what ways do you step out of your comfort zone and help others in need? Make no mistake, there are a million ways in which you can be of help or comfort to another person. You can volunteer at your local shelter or church, to serve meals, bag lunches, hand out clothing or blankets, you can round up peoples unwanted household items and donate them to a battered women's shelter, you can have a toothbrush and sock drive, and then donate them all to a local shelter, you can volunteer at the SPCA if you love animals, you can volunteer at a local childhaven and help children in need. There are hundreds of ways to volunteer, and

shine your lovely light.

At the end of they, day what makes you feel better, knowing that something you did, really warmed someones heart and made a difference, or all the other trivial stuff that you usually come out of broke or unhappy or both?

Something to think about 'eh?

Make a difference in your community and give your life some true meaning and purpose.

http://www.volunteermatch.org/

www.redcross.org

http://www.helpnow.org/

Or google your local churches or shelters for more opportunities. You can also volunteer in other countries with your entire family (age requirements apply). Costs on average which includes room/board/food is about 2500-3000 per person for 10-14 days.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.

To make a donation to the rescue and emergency efforts in Haiti visit

www.redcross.org

H1N1 Shot Fatal for 28 Pregnant Women!

2010-01-07T16:43:00.000-08:00

OH MY GOODNESS! Get the full story by clicking on the link below:

http://www.womensenews.org/story/health/100106/h1n1-flu-fatal-28-pregnant-women

staycations!

2009-11-09T10:07:00.000-08:00

It is a busy season, with the holidays coming and going at lightning speed. Finding peaceful quiet family time is harder these days with SO many appointments and hectic schedules, shopping, flu shots, parent teacher meetings, over time the daily grind can slowly wear down the family time cushion that keeps us happy and sane. So we need to make sure to keep our lives balanced and make our families the most important part of the equation. Obviously just staying home is the cheapest option, and yes making time to just be at home with the family is a beautiful thing too, I mean I am a huge fan of a good weekend in, with some movies, Monopoly, or some arts and crafts time like making hand made picture frames, thank you cards for the people you have been meaning to thank, etc...( let's face it, who doesnt LOVE home:)

Another fun option is a nice weekend Stay-cation- a fun more affordable way to enjoy some fun family time without going

too far or spending too much. If you need to find some good local chill spots check out these sites,I have listed some family friendly stay cations for Seattle, and San Francisco, below.

Seattle stay-cation ideas:

If you are willing to make the two hour drive going to Mt. Rainier, there is a gem of a place perfect for a romantic get away or family escape from the city. Deep Forest Cabins, quiet lovely and well kept cabins among a serene setting, you will never know you have neighbors, unless you stay in the barn owl which is closer to the street but is lovely and romantic all the same. Janet and Pat (the owners) are lovely, very helpful people, happy to share their knowledge of the area, and will make your stay as pleasant as they can. They take such good care of these cabins. I have stayed in two of them, and both times I was in complete aww of the up keep, tiny thoughtful details and the unbelievable landscape. They aren't very expensive, and you can make day trip up to paradise point or take a small hike to the glacier. We love the night hike, and there are many deer all over that wander the area. There is nothing like sipping on some champagne in the hot tub while it is snowing. Awww relaxation. If you need a weekend escape take off after work on Friday and stay until Sunday, Ashford is a cute little town with friendly locals too.

http://www.deepforestcabins.com/

Cedar Grove Cabin

The cozy barn owl cottage.

There are many secluded romantic cabins in Ashford, if you want to check out other options, try JASMERS

They have plenty of cabins and some of them are creek side with an indoor jacuzzi, perfect for a romantic getaway.

If you want to bring the whole family, or a big group of friends, try Westwood Chalet, it fits up to 12 people I believe. I haven't stayed there but I have walked passed it, as it resides on the path to the Nisqually river. It's a nice sized cabin and has a big jacuzzi in the back.

Click here to visit the Westwood Chalet Site.

If you just need a night away with your sweetie, or a fun day shopping and you want to rest your feet in a pretty place with a delicious dinner and breakfast, check out

Gardens Retreat.

Their rooms are clean and comfy especially after a day of Christmas shopping Bellevue and Lincoln Center. It isn't far from the downtown area and is easy to find.

They offer a dinner with wine, for a small additional charge, and the breakfast is actually quite good. For only (95.00 110.00/for two people) a night it was quite a steal!

San Francisco Bay Area

MONTEREY BAY BABY!!!

We often stay at the Embassy Suites about ten minutes away from Cannery Row, it is affordable and close to everything, and you can't beat that huge breakfast buffet they serve every morning. The beds are comfy and there are usually discount packages, like one nights hotel stay and discounted aquarium tickets. When we want to save some mula, a nice day trip is perfect.

The drive is well worth it, even if you just want to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the best aquarium I have ever been to. It holds the largest jelly fish population and AWESOME sea horse exhibit and has a GIANT Outer Bay window where you can sit and enjoy the best view of the Bay marine life.

The restaurants on Cannery Row are yummy especially our favorite, the Fish Hopper.

There is also a great kayak rental spot(click here for info), but be ready to push through the kelp forest for the first 100 feet. Once you pass the kelp, you will be amazed by all the sea lions, nearby dolphins, and jelly fish you will see. It's breathtaking out there. I say one hour isn't enough, rent for two. The kayaks are two seaters so you little one can navigate and point out the sea critters while you paddle.

It is 2 hours away from the city, and the drive up 280 isn't half bad, traffic is okay and the 2 hour drive goes by quickly. I would just avoid 101 if at all possible.
That's if you actually want to leave the city.. If you want to stay in the city, there are lots of fun options too, waaay to many to list but something my family recently did might be fun. A "pretend to be a tourist" type of weekend in downtown SF. It's fun to re-explore your city outside of during the day to day hustle and bustle.

Where to stay: there are a number of affordable hotels that are quite reasonable, if you want to dip in a hot tub, try the Palace Hotel on Market, they have an indoor pool and hot tub, and are very conveniently located close to everything. Movies, art museum, Yerba Buena, Union Square. It's super fun to go to Union Square for some Holiday Ice Skating, and hot chocolate, followed by dinner at the top of Macy's, on the heated out door deck of the Cheesecake Factory. The next day, you could hop on the F to the Fisherman's Wharf, and check out the waterfront shops, and the hundreds of Sea Lions lounging in the back of Pier 39.

if you prefer a more home-like feel, try Airbnb at http://www.airbnb.com/ there are several lovely studios and apartments in the nob hill and downtown SF area for under 125.00. Here are some photos of some lovely spots on airbnb:

Good luck finding the perfect stay-cation for your family:) Have fun and enjoy some down time during the hectic Holiday season:) It's about family, friends, faith and fun so try not to stress about the shopping, presents,dinner parties and finances this Holiday Season.

An inspiring photographer

2009-10-21T14:34:00.001-07:00

These are beautiful photographs taken by Compasspoint Photography.

About the photographer, well I used to work with a lovely attorney named Jamena, a vibrant young soul with a cultivated eye for photography. Soon enough, she left behind her Harvard brewed legal digs here at our office, to bravely and admirably follow her dreams and become a full time photographer!
She and her work both are so inspiring. Check out her website!
Click here to be redirected to her site.

Is your purse made of 33 recycled water bottles???

2009-10-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Matt and Nat?

It is a collection of gorgeous affordable vegan hand bags.

Each bag is made of up to 55 recycled plastic materials.

Their prices are fantastic, I recently saw one of the gorgeous bags that was originally $310, on sale for half of that at Bloomingdales. They are very sturdy bags and will last close to as long as your usual sturdy leather, for a fraction of the price so why not buy two or three bags by Matt and Nat, rather than one kooba?? You soo get more for your buck and it's great for the environment.

Click here for more info, and to visit the Matt and Nat official website!!!

Time to Write a Novel!

2009-10-13T14:34:00.000-07:00

This will be my third year writing a novel. Can you believe that? I barely can...

A month in which I will be leaving my inner-editor out in the cold.

I write and write for 30 days straight.

I let out the literary Goddess within and create my masterpiece.

I am inviting YOU to do the same.

If you ever thought about writing, this is the PERFECT opportunity!

National Novel Writing Month!

During the month of November, writers all over the world, whether you are new to writing or you have cranked out a hundred novels, it is a month of writing non stop, and when you have atleast 50,000 words, you my friend have become an honorary novel writing champ, and you even get a certificate to prove it.

My first novel, was called "Goddess in Chains" I wrote it with the encouragement of my pal Kenne who always made sure I new where the write ins were around the city. I found comfort in sitting a room full of writers, all with one common goal, CRANK OUT THOSE WORDS.. My Daughter usually accompanied me, and she became very poplular among the cafe' owners who liked to watch her draw and chow down on chocolate chip cookies;)
Everyone in these writing groups is soo nice and welcoming and helpful, so when you come to a block, there is always someone to help you past it.

My second book, was an experimental venture into the horror genre.. Only to have the rug ripped out from underneath me when the movie "Quarantined" was released, becuase I thought my idea of zombies being humans with "rabies" was sooo original..

So I got frustrated and never finished my edits. Bleh...

This year, I will write an adventure thriller, but I cannot write one word until 12:00 a.m. on October 31st. None of us Nano-ers can.

That's the official minute that the creative mayhem begins.

This year my goal is to write, complete all of my edits on the new book and "Goddess" and get these suckers published even if I have to do it myself.

Join me, and find your inner novelist!

You can sign up and get more info at:

http://www.nanowrimo.org/

Inside My Makeup Bag

2009-10-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

So if you know me, you know that I pride myself on my collection of beauty products. I like to find things that bring my complexion to life especially when I feeling less-than-fab.

During my cosmetic adventures, I have run across soo many promising products, all prices, all different ingrediants, but now I am finally truly happy with the contents of my makeup bag.

So my search is almost over.

My skin, is dry, suuuuuuuuper dry. No matter how much water I drink it is just so dry! For a while ther I was using Decleors very light floral oils just a dab on each temple and massaged all over, but that got pricey. I then tried Philosophy's "Hope in a Jar" which worked well but it just didnt hydrate enough.
Then I found the Vitamin E Intense Moisturizer at the body shop (pictured below). I soon discovered that the entire line, was made for a person with sensitive dry skin like me.

The facial wipes are soo convenient for traveling too!

As far as makeup goes, I have found the worlds greatest mineral brand out there. It is only sold at Whole Foods, or online at their site (click here) but it makes my skin look flawless, with tiny light diffusing reflectors that really cammouflage inperfections, and it doesn't look like I even have a drop of makeup on. I use the kabuki brush to apply and the flawless finish brush to smooth all over.

Mineral Fusion

It is paraben free and full of antioxidants (like white tea, red tea, and pomegranates)
It also has ingrediants that protect the outer layer of your skin from free radicals and uv.

Click here for more info!

There are tons of mineral makeups out there, I have tried I.D. Minerals, RawMinerals, and

this one.

If you are wondering which mineral brand you should try, try this one first. You will not be dissappointed!

Creepy Halloween Goodies

2009-10-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

As I was walking by Godiva yesterday, there were these cute little white chocolate covered strawberries that were decorated like little ghosts it was the cutest thing ever!

I started thinking about different ways to creat cute Halloween snacks. There were hundreds of GREAT ideas at

http://www.familyfun.go.com/

Here are some of the great fun Halloween snack ideas that we found!

All you need foer these healthy eyeball snacks are some carrots, cream cheese and some black olives:)

Click here for the receipt to make these mini-monster cupcakes!

Click here for the recipe to make the daddy long legs cupcakes!

Are you in need of some fun party food ideas, check out these bat shaped tortilla chips and monster brain dip!

Click here for the dip recipe.

Click here for the Bat chips recipe!

These soooo horribly gross:) but thats just how we like it:) I would purchase the vegan hot dogs and slice them to make the right shape.

You can find the creepy toe recipe here!

Sterling Statements

2009-10-08T06:35:00.000-07:00

I found a lovely shop on Etsy, full of lovely necklaces with sterling silver words made out of bent and welded wire.

I love the simplicity of this one.

The seller PianoBenchDesigns (click here to visit her shop)

Weightwatchers Update

2009-10-07T10:29:00.000-07:00

Moment of truth...

I got weighed last night at my meeting and I was completely shocked by the numbers on the scale!

I even told the weigh in lady that it must be broken, and I got on the other scale.. Well, both of scales couldnt be broken... I am now declaring WAR on my weight.

Even though I still feel smokin' hot at my weight, just because I have always been confident on the inside no matter how I look onthe outside.. I know it isn't healthy, and may have allot to do with why I was having knee and back issues when training capoeira. Forcing me to give up something I love for MONTHS..

I know I need to make different choices starting today!

So this morning when I went with my buddy for our morning coffee, I actually ordered a 2% Latte, and for me that is a huge step granted that I am all about the mochas, with whip, and flavoring and this and that, I mean if they had the option of adding coconut flakes and friggin walnuts in that drink I would be like, yes please...

But this is war! I am going to put a restraining order on my weight. I dont want nothing to do with it.

If I ever see my weight, on the streets, I am pulling off my earrings and putting a beat down on my weight lol

You get the message heehehe

My goal, for my weigh in next Tuesday is to lose 3 pounds. Here goes.

Want more info??

go to www.weightwatchers.com

You can sign up for free online tools (daily food point tracker, journal, message boards, etc.)

and free monthly meetings for only 39.99 to sign up and month, 2nd month is free.

Make Lunch Fun!

2009-10-06T06:35:00.000-07:00

Do you like to bring lunch from home? I try to pack my Daughter Teihani's lunch as often as I can, even though lately she feels like middle school cafeteria lunch is "cooler" :) When she was in third grade I discovered Bento Lunch Boxes. Little stackable boxes that come in 1-2-3-or even 4 stackable containers. They usually come with a little band that goes around them, a cute little matching bag, chopsticks and we have even found cute little sauce containers for her soy sauce and a tiny mini salt/pepper shaker for seasonings.

I think kids love the presentation too and they have a creative little way to put their lunch together and feel all grown up:)

I like to put rice and furikake (rice seasoning usually made of seaweed) in the bottom, then some steamed fish and veggies in the middle, and I use the top for something sweet like some fruit or some Dark Chocolate Chip Kashi Cookes, and I tuck the little sauce containers in the pockets of the little bags with some wet wipes. She LOVES it.

Here are some cute little bento boxes and gift sets! It's a great x-mas gift for even the grown ups:)

Look at this lovely Bento Box Set by SpaceStich (click here for more info)

Or this lovely Bento lunch set by Bunny Enterprises (Click here to go to her shop)

If you are like us and need more than one or two level boxes, check these out, they are super sturdy and you can fidn otu more abotu them at Plastica (click here to go to the website)

Such a great way to make lunch fun for your kids:) There are tons of bento accessories available onthe market, a great place to look is at Daiso Japan, they have tiny miniature forks, and spoons, tiny little bento inserts so you can separate the foods within each level, tiny chop sticks, and cute little wet wipe baggies. If you live close to one, you can definitely find all the bento accessories there!

a lovely time

2009-10-05T13:43:00.001-07:00

I spent a weekend at my favorite place with my favorite person.

Awwwww... Life is beautiful. So is his smile......

Sipping on a COCONUT Mojito at LA ISLA Puerto Rican Restaurant .

OOOOOOPPPPPPAAAAAA!!

Pez Gato y Salmon ala parilla!

YUM

A Gooooood Read

2009-10-05T11:19:00.000-07:00

I have been reading a book called

Paint it Black, another book by Janet Fitch ( the Author of White Oleandar). I took a trip to Seattle this last weekend and during my long airport wait I was completely and absolutely glued to the pages of this womans life, Josie. A lovely slightly lost soul who deals with and endures so much pain. In the first few pages she loses the love of her life and begins her journey of self discovery. So far, it's an awesome book and I highly recommend it!

No Ordinary Dwelling...

2009-10-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

I found this lovely vacation rental and it's owner to be a pleasant inspiration in my quest for finding pieces that liven up my space at home.

I fell in love with her funky yellow couch

Meet the lovely owner Helena.

She was soo super helpful and always just a call away if I had any questions about anything. Her place also has a doorman and a nice little gym.

During our trip the rate was only 100.00, a night! Unbelievable price! It has gone up a little but it is still well worth it.

Her place is clean, stylish, central, and really close to the subway.

While in New York, we rented an editors condo on Murray Hill, you can look her up, or search for her place , it is named "Grand Central Park" on http://www.airbnb.com/.

When I left I was more than inspired and I was ready to start searching for ways to incorporate more color into my space but still maintaining the peaceful tranquil elements.

As you can see, she balances black and white as well as neutrals with color in such a creative and sassy way. I wish I had photos of the silver palm tree decals on the other side of the wall.

As soon as we walked in I fell in love with her place! She has a great eye for color and design and her entire place was soo very stylish.

Next time you travel to New York, get in touch with her and rent out her place, she is awesome and she also has a special mattress, it was like sleeping on a cloud!

I loved the idea of wall decals. They can really change and add to the environment of a room, while making a statement. I searched Etsy, for some interesting decals and found soo many!

Here is one of my favorite decal shops.

DecorDesigns

Click here or on the shop name above for more info!

Can you imagine, a simple living room livened up with these fun decals! You can really transform an entire room just by placing a decal on one wall. Use one with lots fo color for rooms that have more neutral and earthy elements, and tone down a bright room with an all black, all silver, or lighter colored decal.

The birds on a branch are a real conversation piece, or just a nice peaceful place to sit and relax with the birds.

NYC skyline

MS. Hepburne

Artfits

2009-10-02T14:53:00.001-07:00

I was looking for inspiration for screenprinted tees and hoodies, and was so pleasantly surprised when I discovered the trendy and unique shop by-

NYILLUSTRATION

Is a gorgeous shop full of very unique, wearable art. Everything looks so comfy too.

This tank is soo funky and gorgeous!

This handpainted dress is KILLER! So unique and feminie, I see it with some cowboy boots and a nice short leather bomber

This looks gorgeous with the belt and leggings

CLICK HERE to visit NYILLUSTRATION on Etsy.com

Are you Pack-Light Challenged Like Me?

2009-10-01T14:50:00.000-07:00

What is in your purse? Here's what is in mine:

A bottle of vitamins

A makeup bag

A brick (just kidding but it feels like it)

Two cell phones

A journal

A Vitamin Water

Sunglasses

Wallet (which is more like a clutch)

A Cliff Bar

and a pack of Orbitz

I carry allot of stuff around daily, and though I try to downsize, I always end up

packing it full again.. So I need a nice big purse, always.

I have found the link to HOBO Heaven, a little Etsy Shop Named Retrofied.

Thats like two for the price of one.

Are you kidding me?

SHEER GENIUS!!!

Grey is my favorite color so I am so in love with this hobo!

A Rare Find- NOEMIAH

2009-10-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

I recently stumbled into this lovely jewelry shop on Etsy. Check out how unique the

detail and

combinations are! more info below.

This jewelry designer (noemiah) from Montreal, Canada, has found a clever way of incorporating metal and feather.

Her pieces make bold statements but are also delicate and pretty.

Finding Time to Celebrate You

2009-10-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

I am a true believer in finding time to pamper yourself, and celebrate yourself, all of your hard work,

busy days and superwoman-hood.

We are always running around taking care of everyone else, but how often do

you take time to relax and have some "you" time?

No matter what is going on around you in life, you have to take some time to quiet your thoughts and just BE.

I usually accomplish this kind of mindful meditation at the spa.

Kabuki Springs has been my queit place of choice lately.

There is always soft music playing, delicious cucumer or lemon water,

tea, apple slices, and it is always a calm serene place where you dont even have to speak a word once you pass

the front desk. If you dont want to.

OH and if you are the type that doesnt feel comfy when you butt booty naked in front of strangers (same sex strangers), this might not be the spa for you. At first I was mortified, now I am just a happy butt booty naked hippy:) However during private treatment sessions you can just keep a sarong on, and during co-ed communal bath nights everyone is clothed.

Last night I discovered the back-healing powers of Cranial Sacral and Reiki methods.

This woman, Suzy P. told me she wasnt going to do the "rubby" or "pokie" stuff, she was going to pin point and relieve my back pain.

So after resting in my amazing Matcha bath for 20 minutes, and getting water dumped all over me and my back scrubbed by a perfect stranger I got my massage and walked out of the spa feeling like a drunken million bucks, with no back pain, and today, still no pain.

It was lovely. I got this spa package for Mothers day and JUST now found time to use it, and it felt like I had given myself a BIG giant hug:) I love me, and I love the man who gave me my peaceful tranquil healing time;)

For those of you in other cities here is a fantastic list of Mother and Daughter Spas (Click here)

Here is a list of the top ten spas in the US as voted by the Spa Finder Staffers (Click Here)

Here is a list of the best top ten DETOX spas (Click Here)

And last but definitely not least- here is a list of the best sexy spas ( think couple massages and romantic views) (Click HERE)

I was Featured on Elisabeth's Blog:)

2009-10-01T10:35:00.000-07:00

I love this blog, and she was so sweet to feature me!

Check it out by clicking HERE.

Thank you:)

Clutch Love

2009-09-30T21:45:00.000-07:00

I recently asked other Etsyers to share their blogs with me. I received many lovely responses with many amazing blogs, and I stumbled into the lovely little shop belonging to Elisabeth

Look at these gorgeous versatile clutches! I love them, they are made out of vintage skirts. I am just dying to carry one of these out to dinner with one of my new fall outfits.

Taking Control of my Weight!

2009-09-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

I Joined Weight Watchers.

I have had it just about up to here with my eating habits...

You know how most people gain weight when they are stressed? Well I usually lose when I am stressed and gain when I am perfectly happy.... Lately I have been eating every two hours in an attempt to speed up my metabolism, and it does seem to be

working very very slowly, but it's not enough. I need to be more mindful of what I eat.

So the need for balance is definitely there, plus I am a latte' addict, and I LOVE chips, cheese and chocolate...

I decided, it is time to sign up and to ATTEND the weekly meetings.

I will post some before pics, and keep a log of my progress.

I am an active person. But I am indulgant. I eat what I want when I want it. No holds barred. I just love food and I can still

LOVE food.

This morning I had 1/2 of a toasted cheese croissant, and a cup of whole milk coffee and have only used 3 of the 23 points I am alloted for the day. AND I get 35 flex points to use in the week, however I want to use them!

The trick here, I believe is attending the meetings having some accountability

(cause Lord knows I will eat when and whatever I want) . But with the meetings, you are sharing the path with others

who have the same goal, and it's soo helpful and inspiring to

have that support and dialogue for motivation.

Wish me luck, better yet, JOIN ME!

www.weightwatchers.com

Right now the eTools are free for a 7 day trial and man it is handy!

Thats me in the middle in black. This photo was taken in August! I will post others as time goes on.

Babies Galore:)

2009-09-30T07:26:00.000-07:00

Barettes

Adorable accessories and hand sewn tees! Awwwww.....

Little hand sewn octopus! Look at their prices! Super affordable!

I admit, I plead guilty, to wandering the baby sections both in the stores and on Etsy. Giddily oggling at all the adorable cute little baby creations that are sprawling across the shops and stores, all the cute little tiny detailed girly outfits or the tiny little boy sweat suits....Its the size 0-3 months that just gets me! SOO TINY!

And the stuff they come up with is just too cute!

The stuff above, too friggin adorable that even my Daughter goes crazy over them...

They are by Flying Frog Apparel on etsy..

Last week I realized I might be slightly obsessed or my bio-clock is ticking for another baby, either way, these handmade baby goodies are adorable!

I also spotted this awesome shop cradlewillrock whose items are amazing!

I dont know about you all but I know about ten pregnant people and about 3 newborns. So I am going to get my SHOP ON!

Look at these cuuuuute dresses!

I ABSOLUTELY love the funky handmade burp cloths in this shop. Who needs another boring white or ivory or baby blue burp rag.. These are fun and funky and I adore this shop it reminds me of my own with the fun funky vibe:) Cool! Check them out!!!

Remember x-mas is coming, so get ready. Not better way to shop, than to support people who make this stuff by hand! Instead of always shopping at huge department stores, support some tiny businesses to help them get up and running. Their items are usually more personal, unique and have fine little details and differences that only a handmade item can have.

2009-09-29T20:30:00.000-07:00

Need I say more... Anthropologie has some beautiful soft and luscious fall pieces.
http://www.anthropologie.com/

2009-09-29T14:30:00.000-07:00

Fall Back by IndigoWC featuring Alexis Bittar jewelry

Is there anyone out there that has not heard of Polyvore?

It is a website that allows you to search amongst millions of websites, by item, and then place all your lovely finds in one awesome collage. You can get creative and artistic with your collage and when you click on any of the items within it, or any other collage or (SET is what they call them on the site) You can can see store information, price, and any other details you might need. It is soo much fun and a great shopping tool!

Vegan Goodies -Tested and Loved

2009-09-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

Okay so I dont eat meat.. Well, not much atleast. I gave up meat two years ago now. I am a pescotarian, I eat fish and shellfish. Once in a blue moon I will have a crazed craving for some meat, and I do believe sometimes when we have a vitamin deficiency, our cravings might indicate what we need.

However, during my meat-free experiences, I have come across some fantastic meatless options that are DELICIOUS and very flavorful!

For instance, there is this woman on Etsy, her shop is named

MedusaFoods.

She conjurs up magical meatleass goodies such as Vegan Country Fried Chicken Cutlets. Check them out!

THEY ARE SOOOO YUMMY OMG!!!

Another fantastic vegan goody is vegan golden crispy lumpia, by MidoriSola... Who just also happens to be ME! Midori is my old shop, but will soon only have vegan items available for sale, and all jewelry will be sold on my PlayLisst etsy store. These lumpia are a delicious and meatless hit. IN FACT people go so crazy over them I have been asked to sell them regularly. So, I am going to start frying a huge batch up and selling them at the park. I mean while I am chillen at the park, why not fulfill peoples lumpia cravings?

Now for your vegan sweet tooth, and without sacrificing any taste whatsoever.. A friend of mine bought and shared these amazing cupcakes. MOUTH WATERING and delicious!! They are made by TheCupCakeMint. I personally tried the peanut butter ones and OMG. I had to run in the other directions FAST cause all my healthy diet rules left me and I was GRUBBIN! They are heaven, and to be honest they arent horrible for you at all. Its just that I dont like to just have 1:)

2009-09-29T10:25:00.000-07:00

The earrings above are from my very own etsy shop Playlisst.

All my pieces are unique, and affordable!

Check out my shop

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7153253

GIFT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

2009-09-28T22:05:00.000-07:00

What the heck happened to the summer? Where did it go? One second, I am perusing boutiques for a nice summer dress and some tanks and suddenly I am throwing on my Uggs and searching the net for a Halloween Costume and requesting time off for Christmas vacation! Holy Cow!

Well- that also reminds me of that huge shopping monster in the closet that most people prepare for months in advance. Like my lovely friend Sooz, who has already FINISHED her Christmas shopping, as of like June! Or my Mom who will either accidentally give me things I have already given her, combined with some handmade goodies, she too, is done with Christmas shopping. Instead of taking the easy road, I, so ms. last minute, like to wait until Christmas Eve.

Because I love the insane lines, grumpy people and the challenge of having to find lovely sentimental heart felt gifts in a store with only two items lefton each shelf.

Oh the joy.

Okay, this year I'll do it right. I am going to be prepared!

I have found several FANTASTIC gift ideas for the Holidays this year and I want to share them with you!

1. Coffee Mug Sleeves!!! OH CRAP THESE ARE CUTE!!

Reusable, so you can save some trees and oh how stylish.. I love it!

The sleeves below are made by PinkGasoline

Note- you can also have them embroidered and personalized.. Rediculously cool.

Also by PinkGasoline, is this lovely "that time of the month" little handy purse. Now you can look like your going to the bathroom with a descreet little makeup bag when it's really your personal artillery of femme weapons!

Lovely Purses

2009-09-23T22:10:00.000-07:00

I love the colors in this purse and the colors that BagsByColette

uses in her lovely purses designs. I like to put a ton of stuff in my purses.

So I prefer the thicker strapped pleaded hobo bag.

Her bags are gorgeous, sturdy, durable, and fun!

Relax. Breath in Deeply... Find Your Center.

2009-09-10T13:38:00.001-07:00

You are having one of those days at the office.
Someone somewhere is giving you grief.
You are feeling frazzled, out of patience, and out of time.
You need to chill.
For real.
So you check out these sites, to help you maintain your calm and cool.

www.Dailyom.com

www.Effortlessprosperity.com

If you visit DailyOm, be sure to sign up for their free courses. You can choose to pay whatever it is you can afford, whether that be $1.00 or $100.00

DailyOm offers courses in balancing your chakras ( different points in your body that harvest energy)
Healing with Ayurveda (the different elements esternal and internal that create balance inthe universe and within your body and spirit)

Effortless Prosperity, was created by a man named Bijan in February of 1997. It was immediately changing the lives of people anywhere, with his teachings of recieving the abundance that the universe has to offer to all of us. It is a way to heal your mind, heart, and relationships by "changing negative beliefs about ourselves into positive ones and being receptive to the limitles benefits the Universe has to offer."

There are daily lessons for 30 days. Each lesson is a different inspirational and practical technique to actively change your views from negative to positive.

You must try it, for one month, share it with friends and family it will change your life!

http://www.effortlessprosperity.com/

Click on tab that says Daily Lessons.

It sounds like allot, and you may not believe in this stuff, but trust me, if you are at all interested in them, or even interested in finding different ways to feel happy, balanced, peaceful, and calm. You should check these websites out.

Things I LOVE

2009-09-10T13:28:00.000-07:00

Look at this amazing bag I found on www.etsy.com.
This woman makes gorgeous bags that are sturdy, earthy, and multi-functional.
I was especially inspired by these, because the purse is large, and I LOVE to tote around large purses. (I mean hello, I have to carry around my journal, vitamins,make-up bag, face spritzer, and so on and so forth). The matching wallet and key holder is adorable don't you agree?

Here shop name is LBArtworks

Check her out!
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7493219

Join Me on My Path to Weight Loss and a Healthy Spirit

2009-09-10T13:13:00.000-07:00

Everything in my life seems to be lovely and happy, except for my weight.
I began to really pack on the pound at the onset of a less than great relationship, which I shed three years ago, but I kept the weight. I think I began coping with the confusion, with food. Plus I love food. So I wasn;t exactly fighting this natural reaction to stress.

I have suffered some loss in the passed couple of years and I did turn to food. I am confident that my coping skills, and my spirit and my heart have recovered quite a bit and I am ready for a new me.

My friends and family, my children and my sweetie, are all fantastic support people in my life. It is because of their love that I am such a strong woman.

I realized just how much weight I did put on, when I saw some pictures of myself, taken at a concert. I looked soo swollen and puffy that you couldn't see my pretty face! It looked like my skin was being pulled thin cause my face was too swollen. Yes I said it, God made me and don't make mistakes so I am beautiful, just like you.

I also had a conversation with my son who also happens to think I am superbly beeeauutiful, bless his swweet self, but he has definitely noticed the weight. We talked about weight, and how you put it on easy but work hard to get it back off, and I told him how I was in such good shape when Teihani ( my daughter was a baby). he saw pictures of me and acted all shocked and amazed. Then he said Mom, look at this picture you look soo pretty! You look like a different person, you were soo thin, what happened?" He caught himself and changed his wording out of fear he would hurt my feelings. I had to take a moment to reflect on his last words though "what happened?"

I realized what did happen and it was that food had become my comfort. I love to eat, but I was eating late at night, or even when I wasn't hungry, I was eating allot, and would always make excuses like, I will eat less tomorrow.

I got up to 190 pounds. I am 5'2".

I did get down to 175 but that's where I stayed. For two years.

THEN last year, I started running, but it was hard on my knees and body, I lost another 10 pounds in only three months.

However, even though I have done capoeira, running,, and yoga, I couldn't loose the weight because my eating habits were horrible!

However, I must reiterate, all this time I still felt good. I felt like a hot sexy beast at 175 and still do!
But then, I see the photos, and aaaaaargh. Who is that? I don't look like a hot sexy beast, I don't reflect my insides, on my outside, and that is painful to see!

So I ask you, my dear fellow blog reader, to join me on this weight loss challenge.

How much do you want to lose?

What is your goal?

Maybe we can help inspire each other to be the beautiful goddesses that we on the inside. We gotta let that inner beauty shine like it wants to! We have to treat our bodies well, and love ourselves, and get strong and healthy.

What's your plan?

MY GOAL:

Mine is to walk or run at least 30 minutes daily.
That's where I'll start.

I am also very much considering joining WeightWatchers.

Anyoene out there have some experience with it??

Home Sweet Home

2009-09-01T10:45:00.000-07:00

OH How I miss thee...

Live..Laugh...Love

2008-09-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my first Blog. Make yourself comfortable.. This is a creative place where there are no boundaries. Kick off your shoes and relax. I want to share with you, miracles, poetry, beauty, laughter, and little things that brighten my day. Hopefully it will brighten yours.