27.2.11

ReCycled:Lighting

I was searching through Etsy and found these adorable ReCycled lighting fixtures.  BootsNGus has tons inspiring ideas, many are vintage, antique, and ReCycled.  I really feel in love with some of the ReCycled items in the store.  Each item establishes a different idea creating an individual vibe for the room.  







**Be sure to click on the links provided under the picture to see other ideas and get inspired!

26.2.11

A world of COLORS

With spring soon approaching, it's almost time to start beautifying those toes!  I am looking forward to new colors, flops, and sun!  Hurry and get here though!!!


        
So many colors to choose from..... An Affair in Red Square or Chicago Champagne Toast

... or even Romeo and Juliet or Catch Me in Your Net

 
And then there's colors so fun like Gargantuan Green Grape and Cosmo- Not Tonight Honey!

Along with Pamplona Purple and Ya'll Come Back Ya Hear?

 
Who wouldn't want to be Barefoot in Barcelona or in Texas saying "Do you think I tex-y?"

 
The "It" Color says it all.  And boy am I Cuckoo for this Color.




24.2.11

snooowday.



anticipation and wondering is exciting but it happening is a magnificent  feeling
(especially because we had no school monday, 3 day work week).

I feel like a kid again... I love teaching everyday but a unexpected day off is always delightful.  Getting the wake up when I was younger from my mom saying, SNOW DAY, was always great, but now getting the call from an administrator saying the building is closed is even better!

23.2.11

Black Bean and Corn Stew

need an easy meal.... this soup is perfect for a cold, winter day when you lack time.

4 teaspoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons cumin
1 can chopped green chiles
2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans diced tomatoes
1 can corn, drained


In a stockpot, heat oil over medium heat.  Add onions and saute until soft and tender.  Add garlic and cumin, stirring often.

To the stock pot add chiles, black beans, and tomatoes (with juice), and 2 cups water.  Add salt to taste.  Bring mixture to a boil and then return to medium-low heat and simmer for about 20-30 minutes.  The soup will thicken slightly.  

In a food processor or blender, puree 2 cups of the stew (this will create a thickness).  Return to the stockpot and add the corn.  Simmer until heated throughout.  Serve warm with avocado and sour cream, if desired.

21.2.11

finish line

yesterday i ran a 10k.  i was suppose to run the half marathon but due to an injury i slacked on running for a while.  i was disappointed because i always love a challenge and the competitiveness but also knew that if i didnt allow myself to heal from my injury i would not be running for a long time.  so i instead ran the 10k.  this was the first year for the run, heartbreak's half.  it was a lot of fun and an easy run, flat and scenic through downtown portland.  


i felt well accomplished when i was done for the lack of running i have been doing.  i completed in 46.0 minutes, which is an average of a 7:29.  this is not my best time for a 10k but i finished... and i finished.


well compared to others.  in my age division i got second, and overall, i got twenty fifth.  
it always feel so good to cross that finish line.  i love running and it is my passion.  running through neighborhoods, being challenged, doing something i love, and working hard.... give me the drive to continue to run.

19.2.11

something to (think) about


Happiness Depends Upon Ourselves.

When I saw this quote I immediately was captivated by it.  Sometimes I think we depend on others to make us happy, to help us feel complete, and we rely on others for satisfaction in life.  However, our happiness truly depends upon ourselves.  The things we accomplish, our outlook on life, and our positive nature will boost our happiness in life!




16.2.11

Tomato -Basil Pizza

basic, yummy, satisfying pizza.

1 pound favorite dough
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 tomatoes, thinly sliced
fresh basil leaves
feta cheese

roll out pizza dough.  spread corn meal onto a pre-heat pizza stone.  rub olive oil on dough.  sprinkle garlic over the olive oil.  top with basil.  evenly spread tomato slices over the basil.  top with crumbled feta.  bake at 350 for 18-25 depending on dough.

14.2.11

a day of LOVE

what does this day bring for you?


a pink bouquet to brighten the day....

a simple card can say so much.....

something sweet to pair with your "sweetie"....

sometimes these little hearts can say a million words....

a little blue box.....

hugs and kisses from the one you love....

There are so many ways to proclaim your LOVE for someone special.  Find the perfect way even if its just a simple card.  Today is the best day to make someone feel special, loved, and cared for... even if it's just a co-worker, friend, or your valentine!

12.2.11

preview of spring



new trend line released by Nordstroms (my favorite store).

and it's a spring line. it makes me excited, winter will be ending, days will get longer, the sun will be out more, and fashion will change.


i am especially excited for Flared and Wide Jeans

What style do you like best?

9.2.11

Valentine's Chocolate Wafer Cookie's

These easy treats are super yummy and so easy to make!

1 package Famous Chocolate Wafers
whip cream, store bought or homemade
red/pink food coloring

Mix red or pink food coloring with whip cream.  Spread a small amount of whip cream on one wafer.  Top with a second wafer, spread with whip cream.  Repeat this 6 times, continuing until you have a 7 layer cookie stack.  Place a cookie sheet.  Repeat until you are out of wafers, making many 7 layer cookie stacks.    Place in the refrigerator for 4-5 hours, or until soft.  Serve.

8.2.11

slackin'

I have been super busy and slacking on my posts.  Life is crazy right now!

but I am employed!

2.2.11

Hummus Platter

Just in time for SUPER BOWL SUNDAY!
This Hummus Platter is super yummy and simple easy to prepare

2 cups hummus, homemade or store bought
1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
3/4 cup cucumbers, diced into small pieces
1/2 cup feta cheese

Spread the hummus on a platter, layer with tomatoes, followed by cucumbers.  Sprinkle feta cheese over the top and serve with pita chips, crackers, or veggies.

Want homemade...... (click the links for recipes)