thatbirdisaliar

2010-11-04T13:57:00.000-07:00

i just found annilygreen's etsy site through rockstar diaries (you know, perfect couple with a perfect dog who live a cool, perfect life). im green with envy for these zipper wallets. ill also take a pillow and that green print. GREAT STUFF.

wallpaper dreaming

2010-11-02T13:07:00.000-07:00

i love the all the possibilities a new apartment/ home hold. we still need a kitchen table, bed, a few lamps, and credenza (just to mention the basics), but since i got rid of all my dishes and have adopted all of pete's bachelor-ware our kitchen leaves something to be desired.

check out elsa and sam and makelike. someday ill have a wall to wallpaper - until then ill just dream of makelike's lush and succulent patterns.

necklaces!

2010-07-09T12:25:00.000-07:00

all i want lately are gold necklaces (faux gold since im on a budget and i wouldnt know what to do with real jewelry if i had any). pete just gave me this laura lombardi piece for our 2 month anniversary to add to my collection. her stuff is amazing. i also really love these letterpress letter necklaces. i cant decide if i should go with a "p" for pete, an "e" for erika, or an "s" to mourn the loss of my maiden name. suggestions?

mr. and mrs. pete

2010-05-11T11:43:00.000-07:00

we did it! took the plunge that is. and it was really FUN! also palm springs was pretty great too. we aced x 2 (new york and palm springs) and wouldnt have had it any other way. back to normal life now..... and by that i mean sleeping in late, making oatmeal and watching all the shows ive been behind on.

engaged!

2010-02-01T15:45:00.000-08:00

i think EVERYONE knows by now... but pete and i are engaged! we are very excited. also we have set a date and made some arrangements today. we will be having a small family wedding at freemans restaurant in nyc! also weve decided on magnolia cupcakes for dessert. so many reasons to celebrate!

window shopping (online)

2009-12-21T16:08:00.000-08:00

how sweet. sanna annuka also has beautiful prints .warning: theyre about 200 pounds = a lot of us dollars : /

i really love this necklace. macha actually has quite a few pieces id wear.

in love.

2009-12-03T18:01:00.000-08:00

kitchen/ hallway love

2009-12-01T21:04:00.001-08:00

if youve see my kichen wall color, you know im down with bright greens and so i love this kitchen. my mom's in town! can't wait to do family things. yay!

good

2009-11-23T12:23:00.000-08:00

ill take it!

2009-11-18T12:22:00.001-08:00

we could use this im sure.

oh maine, i love you so

2009-11-18T11:58:00.000-08:00

im missing home today. cold weather is in my blood! i want to be all bundled up in scarves and wool socks and such. these houses are awesome. and they're in MAINE (the way life should be).

lounging around

2009-11-17T13:53:00.001-08:00

ive had some free time as of late....wish i were on a real vacation, but im on a budget so ive been spending long days lounging at home. not complaining. last night i made spinach and parmasean soup and oatmeal chocolate chip cookies (mentioned here with recipe. oh and ive been adding coconut lately - around one cup, extra tasty). great combination on a cold california night. i watched d- tour yesterday on pbs.com, a documentary about the drummer from rogue wave who needs a kidney transplant.... it sounds boring but was SO GOOD. i laughed and cried and would recommend it to everyone. you can catch it here online. pete and i went for a bike ride to balboa park yesterday and had lunch. such a fun mid week date. we have plans for a sunset bike ride tonight (and then nunus!).

wants / needs / wants

2009-10-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

lets face it, if you haven't been on a budget in the last year, you're totally rich. yesterday when driving around with some friends, this kid reminded me of my "bawler days.... you know when you use to go shopping on all your days off." i miss those days sometimes, cause worrying about money can really get old. oh well, recession, you're not letting up are you? these are some things i would have "springed" for in the old days.

plaid shirt - opening ceremony

plaid shift - surface to air

blue dress - ever

clog/heel - a detacher

get on the cowl bandwagon already

2009-09-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

this is a picture of one of my favorite bloggers, check out what she's wearing..... get yours at my etsy shop! also look at this mysterious skateboarder .... i think i might know him.

etsy shop

2009-09-22T11:54:00.000-07:00

guess what, i have started an etsy shop! check it out HERE!

whoa new york

2009-09-22T11:39:00.000-07:00

just arrived home from a last minute trip to new york to visit pete. ended up on a 2 day business meeting with a bunch of guys.... and it was fun! we went to all my favorite ny spots (so far) including freemans for brunch ( i hate the bartender but everything else was fantastic), highline park and then found some new favorites; korea town (surprisingly fun/tasty), shake shack (best cheeseburger but beware of the shirley temple ice cream), and public (great food and drinks and even better company). also ate at land - good deal for a great price.

awesome seeing dustin ortiz and meeting his collegues (thank you for the drinks and meals and fun). great accomodations (thank you jess and coco). im exaughsted. poor pete had his tonsils, adenoids removed and septum repaired (nose job), and is painfully recovering.

monday monday

2009-09-14T11:09:00.001-07:00

ive got a case of the mondays and im not even at work! i like this bat for lashes cover. oh and last night i watched commune, a documentary about a hippie commune in northern california started in the 60's. really interesting. you can find it on netflix.

alright alright alright alright

2009-09-13T20:17:00.000-07:00

here's something for everyone who asked! i like these things:

i love produce

2009-07-05T12:20:00.000-07:00

went to the hillcrest farmer's market this morning! bought strawberries, cherries, a HUGE artichoke, dinosaur kale (hooray its back in season!!!) skinny asparagus and small flowering zucchinis (trying out this recipe). i met zach there and we stood in line for crepes (for way too long) but they were pretty tasty and there was great people watching. its a nice way to start the week so i hope to go more often this summer.

hellos

2009-07-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

hello california! thanks pete.... oh and hello new york!

the tallest man on earth

2009-07-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

jojo (dp/ roommate) is always saying "have you ever heard (name of band/singer)?" then she shares a little music with you and her opinions (usually a very passionate love for whatever shes just brought to your attention). for this i am grateful because tuesday night we saw the tallest man on earth (who was NOT the tallest man on earth or even close - ironic name) at the casbah (my first time there! friends have been telling me id love this place for years - cant believe it took so long to check it out). he was amazing, great voice, guitar playing talents, and easy to look at! listen to him. my favorite songs : the gardener, king of spain. also nadia and jojo and i were being silly and took these pictures before we left the house.... hey its summer.

watermelon salad

2009-06-25T18:35:00.001-07:00

since it feels like summer is on its way, tonight i made watermelon salad. i had this for the first time with pete at sweetwater. we recreated once and its probably one of my all time favorite things to eat now. here's how;

into a large bowl mix together these ingredients
cube fresh watermelon (seedless is best, i used half a watermelon)
slice or dice half a red onion
chop up about half a cup of fresh mint leaves
add about half a cup of kalamata olives
add half a cup of feta cheese
splash in some red wine vinegar
add about half a quarter cup of olive oil
squeeze in the juice of one lemon
s&p to taste (careful the feta's salty)

so good!
i served it with homemade pizza (goat cheese, caramelized onions, white mushrooms, arugula, and basil with an olive oil/garlic base)!

new york, connecticut, maine (trains, planes and automobilies)

2009-06-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

this weekend we ended up on a tour of the northeast (kind of). this is what happened; plane delays, late night hot dogs and wine, sleeping in in the east village (thank you jacob and jody), lunch in the park, great people watching, bus to hartford, dinner with the panciera's and then a trip to their awesome farm/ family compound, breakfast (delicious french toast casserole included), made a new friend (molly the dog), drove to maine, lunch at flatbread pizza in portsmouth (i could eat there everyday I think), stop at blinking cone (not opened, booooo), browns ice cream, goodbyes at the house, childhood photo albums (where this picture of me was rediscovered), friendly toast with friends!, breakfast at black bean (new but not improved, i liked the old shop phil .... sorry), meeting, grocery shopping at carls meat market, golden harvest, taylor lobster, cooking chicken under a brick and blackberry buckle, and steaming lobsters, eating, rainy walk, rainy drive, quick send off on the fun wah bus. FUN WEEKEND. lets do it again soon.

2009-06-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

i made pickles this morning and they're delicious! this is how:

a large splash of apple cider vinegar
a small splash of balsamic vinegar
a small splash of maple syrup
a few pieces of sliced fresh ginger
a dash of white pepper
a dash of garlic powder
2 ish spoonfuls of brown sugar
a healthy portion of salt
and pepper!

cut up the cucumber (or other vegetable) place everything inside a glass jar, stir everything up, cover and leave them on your counter for 4 - 6 hrs. so good!

flock

2009-06-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

i know just where ill put this.

loves and likes

2009-06-04T09:39:00.000-07:00

im in love with these sheets! dwell studio really knows how to win me over. if i could swing them, i would, but i cant. also i like these shoes, and this necklace (it says "from the bottom of my heart" in latin.... perfect, perfect). on my last trip to nyc i purchased this yellow dress from brooklyn industries, and i love it! the whole store was great... i want to go back when i go back. looking forward to this weekend and then a visit home to maine in two weeks! i hope to see family and friends, visit the toast, and the coast and possibly score some of this.

update

2009-05-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

so its been awhile. i went to new york last weekend (last last weekend i guess) and had so much fun. if you want to know more go here . and now im looking forward to a last minute trip back to new york with my dp, roommate, favorite friend, jojo. we cant wait! we also are coming back to life after what may have been the worst cold/flu/disease ive ever experienced. i attribute her mother - barbara's, homemade green enchiladas and peanut butter cookies to our turn around. also i whipped up a batch of ginger tea while we watched little women (a very nostalgic movie of my childhood). so easy, so good, and it really cures.

ginger tea

into about 8 cups of water add one medium sized ginger root sliced thinly, the juice of about 3-4 lemons, and generous portion of honey. then boil ingredients for .... awhile. then serve! ( tip: the longer you boil the ginger root the spicier the drink)

also check out this amazing coffee cup with a pocket (click on the picture to enlarge)! what would you put in there? and then this apple sweater. both of these items are probably not practical but are pretty rad, by my definition anyway.

eli

2009-04-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

these two made a pretty cute kid. congradulations molly and ryan! im already smitten with him.... so many good beach days/ fun kid activities to come!

i lykke li you

2009-04-21T18:48:00.001-07:00

she was amazing. afternoons were pretty good too.

quilts and dresses

2009-04-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

ive been wanting to learn how to sew (more than a pillow) for some time now, before my roommate moved in i even deemed the extra room in my place a "craft room" (dont laugh) with thoughts of getting a sewing maching and expanding my yarn collection..... hey it could still happen! well this quilt is inspiring and really rad (id like it for my room to off set ALL the green). also im now on the search for one dress to wear to two events - i dont think id get sick of this one by heidi merrick - actually im sure i wouldnt - but its $$$$.

check out reform school!

2009-04-14T08:22:00.000-07:00

these posters are so neat! id really like the first one for an entry way and the second for my dp (domestic partner) and i to hang in our place. check out reform school!

a few likes

2009-04-14T08:10:00.000-07:00

here are a few things i found while spending unusual amounts of time "creeping" around on the internet. 1) i love this knitted necklace.... 2) even though i have spring fever - i really want these clugs (clogs + uggs = clugs..... come one sherpa lined clogs!! ill need a pair for the cold california winters) 3) the caption to this onsie read "if bunnies and teddy bears aren't really your thing..... " which reminds me of molly my pregnant friend whose gonna pop any day now! i was ready to purchase this but it was out of stock!

i like this

2009-04-09T17:09:00.001-07:00

i think im gonna bring back 1) braids 2) ultra blonde hair 3)furrrrrr. (not leather pants. weird. never wore them in the first place.)

lets get biking!

2009-04-04T16:31:00.000-07:00

so spring is here.... my bike is out of storage (with two flat tires to repair) and even though its just a lame beach cruiser, im ready to get back on it! (and i like these bikes/ fur hats)

i wanna learn how to upholster stuff

2009-04-02T15:56:00.000-07:00

check out these before and afters at design sponge. and i thought my shower curtain was cool....

movie night!

2009-03-31T05:49:00.000-07:00

"i dont want to belong to any club that will accept people like me as a member."

annie hall was the feature film for our first official "movie night." furniture was rearranged, dinner was prepared (spaghetti and italian sausage), dessert was served. it was a success - im pretty sure this is the start of a weekly tradition.... but next time we'll invite other people besides threes company.

best dog in the world

2009-03-30T11:44:00.000-07:00

the love of my life (so far anyways) jack the dog's, life ended today. he was really the best dog in the world. so cute, so loving, and was a HUGE part of our family. everyone that knew jack loved him. he will be missed.

sweatcklace

2009-03-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

now who wants a neckwarmer? and a woman named sveta knitted this..... check out some other pieces here.

too milkmaid

2009-03-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

now this is "TOO MILKMAID" but i love it anyhow (and i think if a friend describes my outfit/hair accessory as too milkmaid again - im gonna go with it).

last night i watched "surfwise" a documentary jojo heard/found out about - and it was really pretty good. makes me feel indulgent when a family of 11 can survive on less than i do in a week - they were pretty radical though. it is thought provoking and entertaining so check it out!

nothing to worry about

2009-03-09T10:47:00.001-07:00

peter bjorn and john have a new single! im so happy. i think you may know i love love love their music (im pretty sure i told jojo the other day "if i ever get married, young folks might be my wedding song" she scoffed and said she wouldnt come to my wedding if it were). the song is great, the album, living thing, doesnt come out until may 31st! but what a great way to start summer.

in other news; tascha's getting married! june 21st (i never thought she could be tamed, i guess i was wrong). so today i have to go try this on.

she's crafty

2009-03-05T07:11:00.000-08:00

i really never wanted to be a "crafter" BUT im feeling pretty... crafty these days. martha stewarts craft department has their own blog! but they arent sharing anything great (gotta save those gems for the magazine - ugh). i did see these needle point works, which reminded me of one of many only-childhood-pastimes of mine.... i may need to revisit needle point to make a gift for my new domestic partner's room. oh yeah and thats not weird, just two girls rooming together and being domestic.

also this baby sweater is SO RAD! molly (my dp's sister and my close friend) is getting ready to be a first time mom. her only complaint about having a boy is that their baby clothes arent as cute as girls. wouldnt i be a great friend if i could pull of this sweater? im still working on the baby blanket, but since the little guy wont need a sweater til fall, i should have plenty of time to figure this out.

i want to go to there

2009-03-02T09:16:00.000-08:00

having a relaxing monday morning which includes oatmeal, blog creeping, and tea. i found this amazing hotel on someone else's blog, even though she went to palm springs, i wanna check out the portland version. anyone for a long weekend?

little bit

2009-02-27T18:31:00.000-08:00

i love everything about this woman. her toggle coat, black tights, tambourine, this song, the mini bells she pulls out, mostly this live music video, but really everything about her.

woo hoo!

2009-02-10T12:39:00.000-08:00

i had trouble starting off today - tea wasnt cutting it, so i gathered some change and walked over to royal food mart for some really good coffee when i heard,"woo hoo...... woo hoo!" i look up five stories at an elderly living apartment complex, to see an old man in his baby blue bath robe waving at me. i say "hello!" and wave back when he says, "beautiful lady, beautiful day!" i love the elderly and well, they love me too - thanks old man. anyways this place had really good coffee (like i mentioned) and is only two blocks away - its pretty breezy here today but i sat outside in the sun - eavesdropped on some conversations and did a crossword puzzle - a good morning.

after

2009-02-09T15:27:00.001-08:00

fresh and clean

before

2009-02-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

dark and depressing

sleepy sunday

2009-02-08T14:38:00.001-08:00

woke up LATE this morning and headed to the hillcrest farmer's market with my "twin" molly (random man making turkish coffee says, "we dont have decaf .... are you twins?"). we ate some "street tacos" and drank mexican fruit water and walked around looking at (but not buying) organic local produce. it was overwhelming and next time im bringing a bag and making a list. i did buy a green chile tamale, probably good - havent tried it yet.

last night jojo and i went to see matt & kim at the loft in la jolla. there were no adult beverages served because, well there were no adults. brought us back to our teen years as we were jumping around in a sweaty crowd singing along to our favorite songs - good show, but made me feel OLD (thanks to tnel, "hey come on you guys and the old girls"). then to in and out where i first learned about the packaged green peppers - a secret my old california friends have been keeping from me.

surprise!

2009-02-03T09:11:00.001-08:00

what a weekend. i made the semi annual trip home to maine last thursday to celebrate my parents 11th anniversary. my stepfather and i surprised my mom really good - she was totally shocked to see me at 7 am on friday, big eyed and saying "what?!" what did we do for the weekend? went to all the usuals - all my favorite missed places (trolled around in clogs the whole time with out being ridiculed - such a luxury); locos coco's tacos, just the thing (cheap antique store), tjmaxx (sounds crazy but i always make out really well there), beach pea (bakery), the golden harvest (produce mart), and last but not least .... taylor lobster.

saturday night we had quite the feast. corn chowder (made by yours truly), sauteed kale (too healthy for my family - but grandpa and i enjoyed it), and lobster and butter (both steamed and baked - i say steamed but the baked version was pretty decent). then we tried to stay up for saturday night live, but lets be honest - this was like my thanksgiving and after a full stomach and some wine, its hard.

sunday was followed by more family time and coffee with some old married friends (who i still miss and love).

monday i made grandpa some breakfast and jack (dog) and i said our goodbyes (i give him potates and cheese and he remembers and loves me next time i come). then we drove down to newburyport and had some thai food before my parents sent me off on my way back out west. it was a great flight and i was met by good friends on the other side.

man on wire

2009-01-26T13:15:00.000-08:00

woke up late this morning (its monday but its really my sunday and i needed to catch up/ rest up since ive been going and going for over a week now, and im going to be going for the rest of this week) and watched man on wire. documentaries can be gripping/lame - this one had my full attention, i dont even wanna tell about it - just watch it, its GREAT.

people are still selling, wish i were buying

2009-01-22T12:23:00.000-08:00

i love having note cards on hand for thank you's, congradulations', (im sorry's), or just hello's. if i could find an affordable set of this card - you'd all recieve one, but $5 per card is just pushing it.

and how RAD are these boot accessories. also not affordable in this crummy economy.

mlk wkd

2009-01-20T09:01:00.000-08:00

i love tuesdays because new music and movie rentals come out, but this tuesday has been overwhelming;
1. bon iver, blood bank - ep
2. matt and kim, grand
3. coconut records, davy
4. animal collective, merriweather post pavillion

in other news: this weekend was fun. an old east coast friend came to town so we started at starlight - my favorite lounge/restaurant in san diego (complete with cream of nettle soup - very interesting), where we had a mule or two. then went to THE GETTY (my first trip) and my only regret was not going sooner. such an amazing place and the weather was perfect. next was india palace - good eating. then jojo took us to her secret spot which happens to be just a few blocks from my apartment - scary but really fun. we all headed up to north county for a late long breakfast. later on went to madison and jasons who were very hospitable (thank you) and then to eman and jorge's welcome home/ housewarming party. yesterday to the del for a pina colada and to splash around in the tide pools, cruised by sunset cliffs and then bbq'd at the pranges - it all felt like summer to me, it was great and im exaughsted.

i NEED this

2009-01-16T11:23:00.001-08:00

new unattainable find

2009-01-16T11:11:00.000-08:00

i just found this brand ivana helsinki that i love. dr scholls with tall socks, billowy tops, well fitting dresses are some highlights. check out the website (i suggest turning off the music, itll give you the major creeps when a russian man starts talking - trust me).

goodmorning

2009-01-15T09:52:00.000-08:00

last night i went to sleep so excited to wake up and lounge around my new place. EVERYDAY this past 3 weeks has been full of errands, commitments etc... but this morning it involved a cup of english breakfast, a carrot muffin, and my bathrobe. i really really love it here. i had some major doubts just after moving in (what am i doing down here, is this place safe, have i gotten in over my head?) but its all finally coming together and feeling like mine. my favorite things about living where i do:

1. super tall ceilings and old wooden floors
2.walking to bread and cie
3.my green kitchen wall
4.walks with molly and nut
5.having friends stop in on weekdays

needless to say there is still plenty of organization to do and character to add. jojo passed along this idea to paint my doors red (on the inside) and im really liking this whole layout, which is surprisingly similar to my apartment. (photo clip from HERE)

blog about blogs

2009-01-08T17:46:00.000-08:00

so lets face it, EVERYONE has a blog. i have a blog which really brings it down to "everyone" cause i have nothing to write about.... im a nurse so half the stories id like to tell are too graphic or because of HIPAA i cant get into details, i have three hobbies (knitting, movie watching and procrastinating) which arent always worthy of blogging about, BUT i have one anyhow.... for some reason.

a friend recently showed me this blog which ive bookmarked and check everyday. why? she likes what i like - reese and jake, portland, decorative but useful hooks, and other rad stuff. so check it out. if i had a "support" section of this blog, a cup of jo would be under it.

other news: (back to my lame hobbies) i saw marley and me today. i cried - pretty hard. i miss jack like youd miss a leg. that dog got me through my teen years which were pretty tumultuous ill tell you.... he always knew just what not to say. and when (if youve seen the movie) owen wilson lays next to him on the rug in front of the fire, i think my heart broke a little (jack loves to warm his belly by the fire and get big hugs around the middle). so i miss you buddy. you'll be 11 this year which is pretty darn amazing considering i remember missing a day of seventh grade to stay home with my new puppy like it was yesterday.

please visit

2009-01-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

okay so this is belated. but ive moved. this is my 7th apartment ever, and 3rd move of the year (2008). im barely settled in, the walls are super empty, im working with mismatched everything, BUT it feels good, i mean GOOD, to be out on my own again. i want to say a huge thank you to those friends who a) helped me move, b) helped me break this place in and c) keep coming over to hang out, which makes this house feel like a home. so to the rest of you - come visit! ive got a variety of teas (cups AND saucers) and would love hear your ideas about what to do with this place.

clog accident and cookware

2008-12-15T19:42:00.000-08:00

funny story. it starts with a lot of rain, needing to wear appropriate rain gear as i was going out to scout for new cookware (domesticating is REALLY fun, ive had an odd love for le creuset pots since my mom got one back in 1998, its red and its a staple in our kitchen when soups and stews and mashed potatoes are made. im interested in the lemongrass collection - which i have been finding at tjmaxx lately - score), i have a pair of rain boots but i dont like going shopping in them cause their super squeaky, so i put my clogs (they keep you perfectly high enough off the groud so your pants dont get wet). then i was driving at about 40 mph down el camino real and something was in my shoe (you know how annoying that is) so i take my clog off figuring i have enough time to shake it out and put it back on..... then the truck in front of me slows down A LOT and im struggling to put my clog on and (long story short) i go over a curb at about 40 mph, and just keep going cause my car can usually handle that sort of thing (its happened before). the truck in front of me later rolls down his window at the stop light and is waving at me mouthing "are you alright?" i give him the thumbs up (and im laughing), then he does the 'your crazy' hand motion (you know making a circular motion at the temple of your head)! i found that pretty hiliarious. well i got out of the car and there was some minor front bumper damage - oh well. good news : i added to my le creuset collection with a white teapot. thank you homegoods.

huh?

2008-12-08T21:30:00.001-08:00

this answers that. (brings a smile to my face everytime).

a sad goodbye

2008-11-20T16:38:00.000-08:00

i brought a pair of faux ostrich leather boots, my favorite pair of boots (you know the ones), to tiny's shoe repair in carlsbad today. a little asian woman comes from around the corner and i show her the boots asking for new soles (i bought these boots used on a whim, didnt know id wear them constantly, the soles would crack and let water and snow in, or that i loved them so much id wear them anyway - wet feet and all). after looking at them she says "not worth it." i say "how much though? i really love these boots." she says "$75 each shoe." then explains to me the process of re-sole-ing boots and that it would take her husband 3-4 hrs. then after this terrible news, and refusing to fix them, she says, "you just go to nordstrom rack, they have nice boots there." i dont want other boots, i think to myself, i want THESE boots. oh well - another pair bites the dust

instructions for everyday life

2008-11-18T12:22:00.000-08:00

im a late-comer on many things. my mom gave me the "ready made" book - i leafed through it and gave it to a friend (stupid), now realizing that I LOVE READY MADE. im not a subscriber to anything right now, and after franticly looking for it in the magazine section at the book store on two separate occasions (only to find it in 'mens interests' - odd), ive decided to subscribe. why? because when you live in a 10 x 10 bedroom you tend to dream of bigger spaces and how to fill them, and since im not naturally creative (lets be honest) its nice to have fun projects suggested. things this magazine has nudged me towards learning;

1> sewing
2> making home made yogurt
3> collecting
4> basic woodwork (you know nails, hammers and maybe some sort of saw)
5> gardening
6> various crafts (like this diorama in the picture)

thats just after two magazines....

we come from a place where we count the days

2008-11-06T18:27:00.000-08:00

this is the worlds largest dala horse (in sweden). i want to have my picture with it some day.... some day soon. winter is fast approaching, i even saw a holiday starbucks cup the other day (i love gingerbread anything, and peppermint anything too), with that said - its time to lock down some travel plans - everyone around me is always shooting out ideas for trips and visits to here and there, well lets buy some tickets already! so far the list is; vancouver, WA / portland, OR, maine, new york, finland/other parts of scandinavia, mammoth, big sur/ san fran, and salt lake city. there not all going to happen so lets pin a few down..... are you with me?

tonight is the night

2008-11-03T09:04:00.000-08:00

ive been looking forward to november 3rd for a couple months now. my favorite new, always in the mood for, musician is in town (well los angeles, close enough). LYKKE LI. (ive even got my mom listening to her.) i'm down one friend and looking a replacement. but honestly, id go alone tonight, im pretty excited
oh and check this out too

ami ami! (knit knit in japanese)

2008-10-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

busy saturday morning for me.... feverishly knitting, i dont know why i love it so much, but i do and my yarn basket is full with half started projects and new skeins, so it is time to get busy. some day when i get one of these i want to spin and dye my own yarn, but for now this japanese (noro is the brand - they have rad colors) cotton/silk/wool/nylon blend will do.

eggs for dinner

2008-10-21T17:41:00.000-07:00

i went out on a limb today and cooked a real, from scratch, meal. i was intrigued by a recipe i saw on this blog and decided to go for it (scroll down to Wednesday, October 15th for the recipe). IT WAS AMAZING. sounds kind of odd but ended up being so delicious. give it a try.

gem of a link

2008-10-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

i just used "shank" in a written sentence and then thought "oh no, what if that means something i don't think it does." so i googled it. and found it to mean what i thought BUT also found this gem.
you might loose twenty minutes or so looking up phrases/ words like i did. my favorite: creeper stash ; a thin, usually dark and greasy mustache just above the top lip, resembling that of a stereotypical mexican person. (no offense meant). also all versions of creep/ creeper are worth checking out like creepbook ( a word used to describe the dark side of facebook where people can basically stalk someone if they really wanted to. ), creeperific (to be creepy in a sorta a terrific way.). well have fun.

winner, winner!

2008-10-16T09:30:00.000-07:00

congratulations to leanne marshall! i loved her from the very start (her bangs, her glasses, and her home town), and couldnt be happier. heres a few of her looks from her show:
now if i could just get my hands on one of her creations.... many thanks to tim and lauren for hosting
the finale party (part 2) !

good listening

2008-10-12T15:43:00.000-07:00

i know, i know. . . shes a red head but jenny lewis might be my favorite red head (no offense, but c'mon they're all a little .... ). ive been a fan of her for a few years now, rilo kiley is one of my top ten favorite bands, and i even endured her paring with the watson twins, BUT acid tongue is an amazing album. my favorite songs; "godspeed," "acid tongue," "trying my best to love you." its fall and getting chilly (even in california) and this music accompanies my want for camp fires, staying in to knit, and movie days. also i really enjoyed "the duchess" a period film that had me on the edge of my (lonely) seat in the theater, and it inspired me to dig my fur stole out of storage.

"whats your name?"

2008-09-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

not even close. my all time favorite starbucks name botching was "eriker." i must mumble in the morning BUT i especially appreciate that whoever was writing what they thought was my name, realized i was a girl somewhere in the process and scratched out "aaron" for a more the appropriate feminine version "erin." can't really blame them - i was wearing sweatpants and glasses (which give me a shim/ goy/ heshe look - sadly).

santa barbara

2008-09-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

i had a great time in santa barbara with my mom at the oceana hotel (notice the rad avocado pillows and orange headboards); pool. breakfast. scrabble (i won 6/7 games and even beat nadia once - so proud). rat cat dog man. good wine. argentinian food. nadia visited saturday ("i want to feel 'the poke'" - nadia ) so now im back to the grind.... and by the way, a HUGE congradulations to molly and ryan prange on their upcoming child! cant wait til that kid is here - working on some unisex knits for it right now (the black sheep is stocking great tweeds and heathered yarns for fall).

pool party

2008-08-28T16:48:00.000-07:00

what a night. great house, swimming. hot tubbing (spa), good friends (old and new), good words, creepy kids taking pictures, new found love for dodos (or "the dodos" not sure), glad everyone showed up - hope it was worth it.

2008-08-24T13:38:00.000-07:00

we need this. thanks.

"i'm a lady"

2008-08-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

yes you are santogold.
i never claim to be on top of what's "hip" and "new," and this is probably old news to all of you, BUT im really enjoying santogold, she's just what my summer needed. thank you thank you.

2008-08-12T14:15:00.000-07:00

i swore, SWORE, id never revisit this blog, but recently a good friend mentioned "thatbirdisaliar needs some love." so ill wrap up this summer, and mention the latest going ons.
this has been the BEST summer ive had in years. beach days, pool days, new friends, new places and all the good things that come along with them. mostly its been nice to lounge with intelligent ladies that also enjoy doing nothing. missed a couple trips that might have enriched my life - but im pretty sure staying behind in san diego did just the same. not sure what this winter will hold, (should i stay or should i go?) but its got to be better than last.
great new things:
* tart frozen yogurt (taro) anytime
* the starlite mule (refreshing)
* noro yarn (japanese - great colors, great texture)
* lykke li
* myers clean day lavender scented anything (not new, but revisited)
* molly's gin and tonic (the one and only)
* nut the dog
* $12.50 straight leg jeans from a little place i can't share
* scripps la jolla (cleanest hospital in san diego)
* san diego friends

homeless aloneness

2008-03-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

well ive moved AGAIN. this is my 5th move in the last year. good memories of this time last year- moving out of the ranch by myself to leucadia. glad im right where i was a year ago. ha. and the only reason im calling all of you so often is cause the aloneness has taken over and im trying not to let it. so put up with my phone calls about nothing just for a week more..... please.

a good goodbye

2008-03-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

last week in the apartment/loft ive paid too much for during the last 3 months in this unlivable city.... not going to miss it in the least, not the hard wood floors, the GIGANTIC closet, the beautiful, well equipped kitchen, flat screen tv, the thieving neighbors, the creepy rambunctious man across the hall, the long walk to the scary parking garage that ive also paid too much for, not the malfunctioning elevators or even the starbucks downstairs. downsizing is okay if it means out of here. leaving san diego yesterday was the worst yet, i hope that means staying will be the easiest yet.

frequent flyer

2008-03-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

i feel like ive been flying a lot recently (well not really, but enough) and id like to make a few comments (for the record):

1. why exactly do we need to take our shoes off? and could we all agree to wear slip ons so as not to slow up the line through security

2. pda is fine in the terminal but once we're all in our small, too close for comfort seats, could the kissing and groping be kept to a minimum - we can all see where your hands are.

3. if you have a bladder problem, dont select a window seat

4. denver airport needs a starbucks

5. keep your personal conversations at a low volume, i dont need to hear how debra is stealing your clients at the office

6. if you can't fit in the seat - buy two, i paid for my seat and stay with in the arm rests, you should too

7. make airport pick up friends where ever you go. parking in economy and driving yourself home after flying is sort of depressing and walking through the parking lot in the dark is shady.

on that note..... see you guys in cardiff on saturday. i know, its pretty crazy.

I LOVE CALIFORNIA

2008-02-26T17:09:00.000-08:00

well, im i finally made it HOME (one of two, west and east). and its great. surprised brie sunday morning with heathers help. went to meeting saw all my good friends - joy and stu, cafarellas, carmella, mary, and of course kris, the mattsons, ortiz's, ethan and everyone else too. after mtg had dinner with jason and madison and the ortiz/ mazzocco families and then went and saw be kind rewind (its a renter - dont waste 10.50 on it - thats right san marcos raised their movie prices by a dollar - LAME). then i had a sleep over with pug. then monday i did errands, moved out a little (hid from the crazy landlord at the old apartment), chased mr. tibbs back into the house, got a job (yay! day job in san diego - EXCITING), picked up pug - she rolled the windows down and let her ears blow in the warm sunny breeze as we drove along 101, then picked up brooklyn and did a little shopping - saw a major local crush of mine, then had pizza at brie and nics and watched a movie. tuesday we went to the car wash and saw lauren sheehy - good to catch up and made some possible travel plans, next went out in service - sunny and warm again - loved it. then went to naked cafe with ethan and brie for my favorite breakfast ever. saw another crush (mike morrissey) at the table behind us (tried not to stare). THEN went to nordstrom rack with brie and bought a TON of stuff...... now im getting ready for tuesday family dinner and then the meeting (co visit - br. misterfield is great). hopefully after some quality time with the mattsons and heather at a little place called saloon, and maybe the shanty and maybe kenos (but it is only tuesday). SO GOOD to be back. im dreading leaving tomorrow.....

the denver routine

2008-02-22T11:30:00.000-08:00

work. sleep. work. sleep. day off of work. sleep. work. im becoming a hermit. its best to stay in when everything outside is crappy (thats what i think anyways). reading a lot. watching some good movies/ tv series. knitting. getting ready to GET AWAY. found some good steals at tjmaxx today. thats really it. heather please visit - and everyone else too.

update

2008-02-11T19:22:00.000-08:00

sushi den at 1487 pearl st HAS to be the best restaurant in denver... it was the best sushi ive EVER had.... amazing food, a strong drink and great atmosphere.... only missing an attractive date

valkommen till vart hem

2008-02-11T12:41:00.000-08:00

we had a really nice stay at breckenridge - yesterday was a perfect cake day : sunny skies, groomed trails (east coast style like we like it) and great people watching- thank you breckenridge. watched the movie sicko last night and i may be heading up to canada in the near future..... did a little shopping this morning at the scandia butik where i met "karl." he helped me pick out this amazing mug for my grandpa (mor far) herb and i splurged for this sign i hope to hang in my next apartment (dont worry kris itll stay in my room). then i bought some really interesting yarn at tea time quilting & stitchery and ive already started new legwarmers. last day with the family - were going to sushi den (rated the best restaurant in denver - we'll see) for dinner tonight.

hey family

2008-02-07T20:52:00.000-08:00

family is here. mom, step dad matt, and an old friend, who, well..... is family. val and i went for sushi last night and caught up and laughed over good times.... then i drove back to the airport to pick up my parents.... very tired today but after a LONG day of slow work i came home and cooked salmon and brussel sprouts and for dessert carrot cake and yellow tail riesling (my new favorite wine from target - cheap/good). happy tenth anniversary! the best part of the night was watching flight of the conchords as a family on the couch. looking forward to breckenridge and vail this weekend. by the way my mom wanted me to tell my friends you're invited to come stay up there with us.... so you're invited (i don't think she realizes its 16 hrs away for most of you).

good news

2008-02-03T13:22:00.000-08:00

the station wagon is back! ive never loved driving more. and i FINALLY made a decent friend out here thanks to regan. she likes to knit, watch movies and drink wine. AND she took me to a nba basketball game saturday night (i secretly like going to live sports events)! pretty exciting. well more to come about this im sure.

leaving the house

2008-01-30T11:38:00.000-08:00

its been a lame few days (sickness and well some laziness too) but im leaving the house right now AND im not wearing sweatpants (its tempting not caring what you look like here because no one else does, and my sweatpants are a lot nicer than most peoples regular clothes here in downtown denver - not bragging, its just a fact) so i might see a movie or go read magazines at the bookstore. either way its the most excitement ive had all week. and im missing you guys a ton.

2008-01-30T09:55:00.000-08:00

i really want one of these.

pulling my hair out because

2008-01-29T12:27:00.000-08:00

im still carless. ira at prestige audi hears from me EVERY day - and every day he says the same thing -"we're just getting the parts on and then...... hopefully tomorrow." ira im sick of your lies. your inability to accomplish a task is impeding (to retard in movement or progress by means of obstacles or hindrances; obstruct; hinder) my life in a large way. HURRY UP IRA!

ive just been sitting around my apartment and taking walks around scary downtown denver trying not to spend money. i can't wait to have my station wagon back in working order cause then im out of here. the mountains got feet of snow last night, i need to get there.

old japanese ski bums

2008-01-25T21:22:00.000-08:00

nothing great to report today BUT i did just drop my toothbrush into the toilet.... bummer. also i met an amazing japanese family today. the aunt and uncle of my patient are 84, 88 and still ski! unbelievable! they were headed up to aspen on monday for their annual winter ski luau.... really though these people were incredible, they both seemed to enjoy life and their attitudes were outstandingly positive. this is why i love the elderly and in turn my job. going back for more tomorrow

encinitas, colorado

2008-01-24T11:04:00.000-08:00

i did make it to boulder yesterday. it was pretty great.... i felt like i was in a cold encinitas/santa cruz at the foot of a mountain range. pretty great. they even had a juanita's mexican food! should have moved there...

upsetting news: i left my ipod in taschas car. hopefully she had enough sense to grab it before taking off for boston... otherwise i hope she'll overnight it. i can't take another taxi with out it.

waiting around

2008-01-23T12:31:00.000-08:00

woke up at 1040 this morning, lounged around, got some quarters at the bank to do laundry, went to starbucks for coffee, and am currently sitting on the couch waiting for tascha to get back from aspen (cause she wouldn't wait for me to go with her). im carless and have been taking yellow cab taxi to and from work ($14 each way). work is going well, so busy but the day goes by fast and i feel like a real nurse again. im drinking a lot of caffiene (im off sugar again) so falling asleep isn't easy - especially when people are banging around in the hallways of my apt building. suppose to go to boulder today with tascha, if she ever gets here.

its just math

2008-01-21T10:27:00.000-08:00

had the opportunity to talk to an old friend last night. and he sent along these good words:
"good people do exist...and there has to be RAD JDUBS because you being the only one is not possible...its just math." thanks friend.

also received a card from my mom with a quote that reads "home is not where you live, but where they understand you" - christian morgenstern. im not sure where that is but thanks mom.

im missing maine and california. things i miss (no particular order):

maine

1- my family and jack

2- people who wear clogs
3- the alaska girls and ac 2d
4- ceres street /all of portsmouth
5- friendly toast with friends
6- the ocean/ rocky coast
7- breaking new grounds
8- black bean coffee with mom
9- the golden harvest experience
10- winding roads

california
1- my other family/friends
2- pannikin
3- pug and cider
4- tuesday night dinners
5- capn kenos
6- seeing the ocean everyday
7- coffee with kris
8- falling asleep on brie and nics couch
9- whistle stop
10- knowing people

lazy sunday

2008-01-20T11:59:00.000-08:00

so tascha's in town and we're up to our old ways. thats right pajamas, tea and movies. good to have a familiar face around. as we were falling asleep tascha had the privaledge of hearing drunk kids screaming profanities in the alley next to my apartment building. oh city life. always exciting. we did find a parking garage to sneak in and out of for free - great accomplishment.

i do miss the big white mornings already. making coffee with dean, watching price is right and listening to everyone hack up a lung. hope you all start feeling better soon.

nobody likes a goodbye

2008-01-18T12:11:00.000-08:00

last day with the ortiz/mazzacco/sheehy families at the cabin/chalet in big white, canada. to recap:

1. everyone's sick but me
2. i fell in the shower on tuesday
3. we've played scrabble and cards and watched a few movies (well i fell asleep)
4. had a big spill yesterday - hurt my knee and threw up breakfast on the trail
5. everyone's sick but me

tonight we're going to try and fit in: ice skating, a sleigh ride, drinks and packing - unlikely.

oh and prior to this trip i was in seattle/ bellingham for lukes wedding. fun times. good to see everyone and stirred up old feelings of capn' kenos (sad).

im NOT looking forward to returning to denver. so far not so good. although some friends of friends are coming to town.... i'll hope for the best. tascha will (hopefully) be picking me up at the airport, and staying for 10 days (more to come).