Intrinsic Movement

Back to School!

2011-09-29T20:37:00.000-06:00

WHAT? School is back in session !!!! What happened to the summer, August? Uh, and what about September? Henry is quite the happy camper to be back at school and quite proud of his Spanish speaking capabilities (go Communikids). This mama is proud!

But what about summer? It was so full, so crazy, so fun and a lot of work. My hubby worked extra hard at getting his business up and running, which to date, I am delighted to say is coasting along nicely. :) Go love! I took most of the month of August off from teaching Pilates to be with Henry for some fun time (we took trips, had mom camp and all). Henry tried new things at his various summer camps. He took Tae Kwon Do, learned a little about acting, music and dance and fine tuned his swimming skills! I've got a fish on my hands! All in all our summer was super fun, filled with adventures. Here's a quick peek:

Visit to Wisp in Western Maryland

Crazy jumps into the pool!

Hen took 2 weeks of Tae Kwon Do camp! Loved it! We'll be back next year.

Henry and I had a mom and kid getaway in Martha's Vineyard. We went to visit one of my very good friends MT and her two boys. We had such a fun time. MT's whole family was there and it was a full house of fun. The photos taken are by Amy Bennett who is an incredibly talented photographer and friend who lives in Cabo San Lucas. We all had a blast! Thank you again Amy for taking these amazing photos of us.

Silly Faces!

How old? My birthday celebration!

Remembering...

2011-08-03T14:37:00.008-06:00

I came across some of the most delightful pictures of Hen and I doing Yoga.

Yoga Toes

Cobra

We went to the dedication of Jayna, over at the Lululemon in Bethesda. It was the day which marked the stores re-opening after the murder that had taken place.
The morning was beautiful and quiet. Everyone layed out their mats and while they waited for the class to begin, people sat to meditate or stretched, said hello to their fellow yogis. It was a community that came together to honor. You could feel that energy. I set my intention to honor the life of a beautiful woman who lost her life too soon.
It felt special too to involve Henry in this special tribute.
LOVE

A little bit of everything! New venture ahead!

2011-07-26T16:57:00.015-06:00

Summer fun continues!

We've just started a NEW camp this past Monday that Hen hoodle LOVES! It is his first brush with the martial arts and I am so excited to see that the kid has taken to it.
We heard so many wonderful things about a Tae Kwon Do studio nearby in Bethesda called Flying Kick Fitness Center. The more I started talking about it, the more parents told me that their kids went there.
Anything new is a little scary, but after the first day, he has taken off. Hen has made new friends and really digs his uniform. ;0

Talk about Mr. 'Poser!'

Besides all this fun camp adventures, we also have been enjoying the days outdoors (when the heat isn't up too high and the mosquitoes aren't insane). We've been going around the neighborhoods on scooters, playing with our neighbors in the street (with parental supervision, of course).

And aside from all the kid fun, I've been enjoying summer cooking, plenty of salads, grilled goods and ice cream! I've listed the ingredients of one of my favorite salads that I've concocted:

KATE'S FAVE SUMMER SALAD

Arugula (handfuls)
grape tomatoes
English cucumbers
zucchini linguini (peel zucchini into strings with Jaime Oliver peeler)
Avocado
crumbled goat cheese
pesto (2 tablespoons)
seeds; pumpkin/sunflower
Chicken (cubed), optional

Are you an Almond lover?
I just spotted at my local Whole Foods, Justin's Nut Butter. I was first introduced his line of products while living in Boulder back in 2009. I've been eating Almond butter for 10 or so years but this company outdoes itself on their butters (its what they're all about after all)! It is hands down, my favorite!

Love these little packets of goodness!

Yummy honey and almond butter! (Their almond and chocolates combo is delish too).

All you need is a spoon!

There is a new little business I've got bubbling. Soon I will be announcing my new venture with one of my all time favorite people. Watch this spot!

Muy Caliente!

2011-07-23T17:40:00.007-06:00

We're experiencing a bit of a heat wave here in the district-o-columbia. Oh please let this break soon. I really do love heat, but this hot is too heated! It is too humid! I really feel as though I am walking through something sticky, like carmel.
Thunder storms are in the forecast for tomorrow, so looking forward to that and hoping that it will relieve us just a bit.

The heat, when it is THIS hot....does something a little nutty to me. My tolerance level goes from 10 to 2 in about 30 seconds flat. Not good when you are rearing a toddler, well a 4.5 year old boy who has LOADS of energy!

Today was a slightly difficult day as a parent. I found it very difficult to run two errands. That being; driving in the car to get a coffee for me and a 'treat' for Henry and going to 'Bed Bath and Beyond.' This trip included multiple temper tantrums. Given that the toddler has no interest in taking a nap where a needed nap is due, well, this truly is a recipe for disaster. I kept telling myself to keep cool. How does one do that when it is 107 degrees? How?
Well, not so well.

We're in B, B and Beyond (to hell) when my son decides while his grandmother, aka Nonna, picks up her much needed dust buster, that he too NEEDS to have a dust buster as well.
"Honey love," I tell him, " you have a dust buster at home, you have two, the one mommy uses and the one that you got for Christmas."
"No, no," he says, "I need one, I need my own dust buster. You make me so sad mommy, you are hurting my feelings so much! I want a dust buster!"
Urgh! Pulling out the 'you hurt my feeling so much.' Total killer to the mama heart.
"Hen love, you have one," I confirm.

No this isn't gonna work mama.
It doesn't matter WHAT I say at this point. The tired, sticky hot toddler is on a mission to acquire his OWN dust buster TODAY (even if it means he truly has his own play one at home that actually works and sucks up dust)! Well I did NOT break down and buy the child a new dust buster, I just had to do my darn-dest to keep it together while my child let out blood curdling screams (got plenty of looks).

"Control yourself Henry, calm down and take 3 deep breaths," I said.
I'm sure customers were wondering, "Is this chick for real?"
Yeah, I was, for real. My kid does take deep breaths during those out of control moments to help center him. At least we do our best to try!

Finally, Henry realized he could just hold onto the box that contained Nonna's dust buster and announce it was his. We just went along with him "this is mine, my dust buster!" He proclaimed.

Sure, kiddo! Whatever, I kept thinking to myself.
Well, whatever I could do in order to keep my head on straight.
Argh! I felt like such a HORRIBLE mom.
Horrible. That feeling of not being able to help your child through those uncontrolable moments, is a killer. He just had to roll with it.

Once in the car, I was relieved to be buckled in securely (for the safety of all, not just mine)! Whew! What the hell was that?

Note to self: DO NOT go one errands on a scorcher day like today.
Spend it instead at the POOL, crazy lady!

Not such a good moment today at the B, B and Beyond (gone)! Delighted in that the day has come to an END. And better yet, my child is his happy little boy self (even though he never napped) and has no interest in Nonna's dust buster!

Motion, Summers here....

2011-07-07T21:32:00.029-06:00

Well it is sad to say that summer is swiftly moving right along!
There is swirling going on at the moment and am just starting to catch my breath since Henry has been out of school for the past two weeks.

Firstly, I would like to update our little bunny story. Sadly we were left with ONE bunny. Not sure who or what took the second, but it was gone, and its predator only left little bunny feet behind-eek!
After watching the remaining bunny like it was our own baby, and not seeing the mom return to the nest for 24 hours, we decided to take the bunny to the wildlife refuge. We were relieved to know that little bunny was going to make it! He was slightly dehydrated since he hadn't had mommies milk, but the Vets at the refuge were going to take good care of him.

Hen and I just returned from a trip to California to visit my sister and niece. We took an overnight trip to Ojai California to visit some family friends of ours. They have a beautiful property up in the hills/mtns, overlooking the avocado orchards and the mountains beyond. What a gorgeous place to be. The days were hot hot hot and the evenings cool. I love weather where you can open your windows and doors at night to allow the cool breezes in (and not have to worry too much about the bugs, minus the snakes, however).

We ate delicious food, some right off their property. Delicious peaches! We took a ride in their mule which to our surprise drove up steep hillsides. It was super fun to ride in and Henry decided he had a 'new' toy. He has asked me for his own mule!

Leslie is an artist. She owns a gallery in the heart of Ojai. Her gallery is called Nomad Gallery which has artifacts from Africa and India. She also displays her beautiful paintings and jewelry designs as well.

18 years ago, Leslie landed in the Sahara desert as an inquisitive artist. A chance meeting with the Wodaabe nomads took her on a path that changed her life. After visiting this nomadic family the second time a year later and seeing the poverty they lived in, she decided to give them a gift of $200. On her return the next year the family explained that with the gift they had purchased a cow and because of that they were able to remain nomadic. The realization that this relatively small sum could transform a family's life made her realize that she could make a difference. Thus began in 1997, the Nomad Foundation, a non profit that helps these groups. Leslie travels to Niger every year for a few months, to continue her work to help sustain the Nomadic life of the Tuareg and Wodaabe as well as oversea the Tamesna center which she opened in 2010 that provides medical aid. She is amazing!

Here are a few of her paintings:

To learn more about her foundation (www.nomadfoundation.org), please click here

Here are a few family pics of our time in San Diego. Wishing that Dean was with us on this trip!

Good Morning Ojai!

The Guest House

The Mule

Henry rides Squirt!

Butterfly Bush

Baby Bunnies

2011-06-21T21:42:00.008-06:00

Last Thursday, Dean and I saw a bunny in our yard building this:

We thought, "Cute, it's building a little nest for itself." We left and a few hours later, it seemed that the nest was flattened, so we thought, "Oh, well, it must of moved on."

Monday morning, we were leaving our house and Henry screeches, "Mommy, Mommy, come look it, it's a baby piggy."

Me: "Huh?"

Henry: "Mommy, Daddy, you've got to come out here and see this, it's a little piggy, just lying here. Not moving"

Me: Thinking.... Um, no, can't be a piggy. Two, uh, lying there not moving? Dean better go look.

Long story short. We have baby bunnies in a nest in our yard. And on Monday morning, a predator, took one out and laid it on our pathway, left for dead. It seemed that some thing got to it and had taken off its ear and knocked its poor little head.

Not knowing what the heck to do, and a little bit frantic, I went over to our neighbors house.
Me: "Mary will know what to do!"

Sure enough, she did. We took this little creature over to the Second Chance Wild Life Refuge. They cleaned him and check him out and then put him in a warmer. I hope the little thing survives.

Low and behold there are two more.

So everyday we have been watching this nest, like a hawk to make sure that no prey comes to get them. However, we learned that the neighbor Mary, her cat had brought one of the baby bunnies to her bed last night at 1 am. She brought it back to the nest. So today we thought to put a milk crate over it during the non feeding times (the mom has come over to feed at 8 am and then again at around 7 pm). For some reason she did not feed them this evening and we are a little worried that she may have come this afternoon and couldn't get to them because we had the box over them. Fark!

So what to do?! We wait and watch. Hoping these little guys make it!

Yoga time

2011-06-15T21:27:00.012-06:00

Yups! It is that time again. Yoga teacher training is in full force this week with my mentor and teacher, Shannon von Burns.

This intensive is, well, quite intense! We are not even half way through the program. It ends early 2012.
The past two days have been about shoulder openers, legs, back bends, shoulder openers, bandas/abdominals and shoulders! Yes, a lot of opening our shoulders the past 24 hours. Note to self: buy EPSON SALT! We are also, doing our meditations and our breath work as well, so these centering aspects really help level us while doing all these deep and intense asanas. Tonight my two favorite asanas:
Warrior III against the wall. We started with blocks under our hands then collecting our "bandas" deep pelvic floor and then placing our arms up over our heads and interlacing our fingers (pointer fingers out)
Hand Stands with the strap slightly above elbows (at the wall). This one was NUTS. Well in a good way. Shannon spotted me as I am still working on opening my shoulders and gaining the strength. While in the handstand, she supported my legs as I lifted my pelvic floor, squeezed my legs/knees/feet together and lifted (I also had to adjust my pelvis a bit too).

Here's a little more about this incredible woman who I am so honored to be training with and learning from!

Shannon von Burns

"Shannon von Burns believes Hatha Vinyasa Yoga is the antidote to all our daily challenges. She is a teacher's teacher, known for her healing approach to yoga. She holds over 1000+ hours of yoga studies and is an anatomy geek. Firmly rooted in the deeper principles of the Raja Yoga System, Shannon shares philosophy in her classes , in a no-dogmatic, positive and joyful way.

Shannon has been teaching yoga for 10+ years. Her love for yoga is fueled by watching her students progress, laugh and heal. Originally from Los Angeles, Shannon is also a renowned master bodyworker, yoga therapist and walking therapist. She is currently studying Ayurveda and teaches Master Classes, Intro to Yoga and Ayurvedic Lifestyle as a way to continue the practice of unity off the mat. As a yoga therapist, Shannon utilizes gentle and supported yoga postures to help relieve chronic neck and back pain, migraine head aches, frozen shoulder, joint movement, Sacro-Iliac dysfunction and numerous other chronic pain related issues. She encourages her students to learn how to modify their practice to heal their bodies.

Shannon's walking therapy involves applying yoga principles and philosophy to carry yoga alignment into your daily life through the lens of your walking technique or gait. She welcomes all shapes, sizes, ages and abilities. Her motto: "Yoga is for healing everyone, including you!" "

This afternoon while playing with Henry, I had made a comment about how I had a headache or something about my shoulders "nemesis" being tight and Henry piped up, "Mom, you know you should use your breath (he starts to inhale through his nose), its good for you, you know. You should do your Yoga cause it is really calming." Yes, he used the words breath, yoga and calming. I've trained the little guy well! I about oodled all over him in with hugs and kisses after that one. Boy I love that child!

Off to regurgitate all the modifications and adjustments (that are swirling in my head) that we did tonight, in bed.

Downward-Facing Dog: SanSkrit: Adho Mukha Svanasana
(note to self: fix head placement, drop heels)!

Cookies and DANCE

2011-06-07T18:04:00.004-06:00

Yesterday, we made the most yummy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies! Henry and I love to cook together. Henry loves being a "chef, " so I had stocked up on organic baking needs from Whole Foods. I picked up butter, eggs, chocolate chips, and the oats from their bulk bins. I had all the other necessary goods needed.
When trying new recipes I opt to look at a few online and then combine the ones that look best to me (usually don't like cooking with abundance of Baking powder and Baking soda at the same time, and usually I cut the amount by a 1/4 tsp).

So I combined Betty Crockers version with this one, from Savory Sweet Life blog.

Ingredients (as Organic as possible):
1 1/2 Brown sugar, gently packed
1 cup Butter (slightly cold but not frozen)
1 1/4 tsp Vanilla
1 egg
1 tsp Baking Soda
1/4 tsp Sea Salt
1 1/4 cup flour
1/2 cup Almond meal
1 3/4 cup Oats (not quick oats)
Chocolate Chips (semi sweet)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a mixer (with the paddle attachment), mix brown sugar and butter until fluffy (about medium to high speed). Mix for at least 2 minutes.
Slow down the mixer while you add the vanilla and the egg. Let it mix completely. Add in baking soda, salt, flour, almond meal, oats and chocolate chips.

Create spoon sized balls onto non-greased baking sheets. Cook until lightly golden brown!

YUM to your tummy!

Lately, we've been looking over youtube to look at dance. Henry has shown an interest in dance. He wants to know about ballet (not sure where that came from but most likely innately from my genes-I was a ballet dancer for many years). So I have been showing him little blurbs from my favorite dance company, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, out of Brooklyn. The dancers in that company are mind blowing! They're athletic, technically skilled, and overall incredibly talented. They have INCREDIBLE STAMINA!

The Fire Island Dance Festival clip here is amazing! This includes multiple
dance companies (about 15) including Complexions. Henry loves watching it (so do I)!

Not that either of these blog topics are related, but at least now that you have a new cookie recipe, you can dance off all that deliciousness with this inspiring dance clip!!

A schlew of things....

2011-06-03T09:18:00.012-06:00

There are many blog topics that I have on mind these days, so decided that I would end the week with an array of things!

Memorial Weekend!

After much persistence from our 4.5 yr old, we finally took Hen doodle to NYC!
Will write a post about this adventure as the 3 of us had a blast!

Interior design is one of my secret addictions! Currently I am trying to decide what color to paint my front door. Thinking that a yellow door will add a nice pop to my white house with gray shutters....

Here are some of my faves!!

But there is always blue too.....

Blue Door, Dublin Ireland, 2007. By Michael Gebauer Photography

Not quite sure what to choose, but will go buy test colors tomorrow to make my decision.

Greens Drink to start the day off!
Today was a fun and nutty day, but managed to start it off with a greens drink, which was actually quite delish, especially with pineapple coconut juice. My acupuncturist gave me this sample to try out. It has greens and minerals (like Kale, alfalfa, basil, dulse, kelp, nori) as well as various enzymes and probiotics!

Enjoy the weekend!!

Spirit Week, Zoo party and YUM Rhubarb!

2011-05-17T19:00:00.017-06:00

Last week was spirit week at Hen's school! This meant that each day they participated in new themed activities each day.

Monday - Pajama Day
Tuesday - Crazy hair day (clothes)
Wednesday - Water day (wear your bathing suit to school)
Thursday - Science experiment day (learn about tornado's, volcano's etc)
Friday - Sport day ( wear your favorite team outfit)

Henry loved it! We started off a little shake-y as I had forgotten that on Monday we needed to be wearing our pj's.... so after I dropped Hen off, I went straight home and returned with the jamers. Whew!

After school on Monday, Hen told me that he wanted to put rainbow colors in his hair for the following days festivities!
We ventured off to the party store that afternoon and did some test hair dos. Tuesday am we put a pony tail in on top of his head and then sprayed his hair with pink, blue and green! HA ! What a fun day!

Spraying it on!

The thinker!

Mother's day weekend was jam packed! We went to a Zoo birthday party which was a blast for the little ones. Hen got to burn off his energy with a safari walk through the park with some of his best buddies. Zoo's are brilliant for young minds wanting to learn about animals as well as for scientific research, but I really do have a hard time seeing animals confined to small areas who need so much more space.

Hen and Teo

Look!

Orangutangs! This guys have it pretty good. These ropes are strung high above throughout the Zoo grounds,
but be careful not to stand below them as they can do their 'business' at ANY time!

Dino sculpture! The kids loved feeling its teeth!

Checking out the lions.

On Mother's day, I decided that I would make a rhubarb pie (my first ever)
for my mom. What an adventure! My son helped out as well as he loves cooking with us which most of the time (minus the mess of course) is really quite fun. He loves to mix and help out with putting the ingredients into the Cuisinart.

The Chef's in the Kitchen!

Mixture of Rhubarb, Strawberry, cinnamon, brown sugar, cornstarch, salt and more sugar!

Ready for the oven! My crust is a mixture of flour, almond meal, salt, dash of sugar and BUTTER!

YUM! I worked of 2 recipes and both said it would cook in 2 hrs.
This one was done in about an hour! Cooked at 400 degrees F

Please let me know if you'd like the recipe. I can put it in my next post or email it to you!

Part 3: Hawaii

2011-05-13T10:45:00.022-06:00

Despite the very fact my trip ended 12 days ago, I'm still dreaming about Hawaii. Revisiting my pictures brings back the memory of time spent with my mom and sister and all the fun we had. Looking forward to doing more of these types of adventures with them (although must include hubby and my brother and his wife next go around)!

Nonni, Henry and Norah

Tikki Torches!

Nonni indulged the children with cupcakes!

Back from the pool.

Sister Sarah and Nonni (my mom) poolside.

Mauna Kea

Peak near the top of Mauna Kea.

My sister and I decided we would spend some time together on our own
adventure. We opted to go on a tour to the top of Mauna Kea. This is a beautiful dormant volcano.
It is 13,792 ft from above sea level, however, the locals boast that it is the worlds largest mountain in the world when you measure it from the oceanic base it measures 33,000 ft/10,000 meters! Yikers! Here's a little info about how it compares to Mount Everest
Any who, we decided to do the sunset and stargazing tour. They provide a catered dinner and hot chocolate and (yummy) cookies. The trip began at 3:30 pm in the afternoon and we drove up to the visitor center. It was probably about 5 pm by the time we arrived. This visitor center was at about 10,000 ft. So we climbed altitude quite quickly. We stayed at the center for about an hour or so to acclimate and to have our dinner and walk the perimeter. There were some interesting fauna there.

This plant is an indigenous to Hawaii, but unfortunately it is dying out.
They have put fencing around them all over Mauna Kea to protect them from wild animals.

A burial. For many many years (even thousands of years), Mauna Kea has been considered a
sacred mountain. Many people would come to the mountain to bury their dead or disperse ashes.

We all got back on our well equipped van that had special 4 wheel drive and off road suspension, it was pretty kitted out (think I may be sounding too much like my husband), to handle the dirt roads. It was pretty rough riding those dirt roads, kind of like a wash board. At times I just had to let my voice ungulate with the vibration, kind of what you do as a kid. It was quite hilarious, until the woman in front of my sister and I announced to the van that the right was like a vibrator!?!*
Ok then at that point our very talkative guide turned awfully quiet. Sarah and I just laughed!
We stopped again to get our to take picture and acclimate once again. It was getting freezing out there.

Freezing at this point. Just a quick pic before we get back in the van to the top!

Our guide prepared us for the fact it would be below freezing at the top. The tour company provides HUGE down coats with hoods and mittens.

On top of the World! Kind of felt like the Michelin man in this get up!

The sunset was beautiful! Here you can see a handful of observatories.

There are 9 observatories on top of Mauna Kea.

We had such a fabulous time on that sister adventure!

I'm ending this post with a picture of my gate at the airport. This is what it looks like right before you get on your plane. SO fantasy island. How I loved it!
Look forward to returning to Hawaii one day again soon.
Mahalo!

Queuing at the gate to get on the plane!

More of our Hawaiian adventure!!

2011-04-29T18:56:00.021-06:00

Our adventure has been so full! We are really managing to accomplish so much while here. Most importantly, we've enjoyed the relaxation of the beach and pool. However, there have been times where I've needed to attend to the liveliness of my 4 year old! His energy surpasses that of a handful of 12 year old tweens at a Miley Cyrus concert. He does not slow down. Thankfully, I've had my sister and my mom pick up where I drop off (like at the side of a ravine ready to jump off)! That said, all in all our trip is truly magical!

Slightly loony at this point! We've had our fair share.

We took a morning to drive to a coffee plantation for some 'true Kona coffee.' DELICIOUS! We ventured over to Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation in the hilly region of Kaloko, which is about 3500 ft above sea level and considerably cooler temperatures (by about 20 degrees). What a beautiful place! We had a tour of their facility where all the beans are sorted and then roasted (and organic). We also tasted coffees and reveled in the smells of the beans roasting (boy do I love a good cup). What a treat! We headed into their coffee store to purchase coffee which ended up being about $350 dollars worth, between the three of us (included coffee beans, cremes, candies, and tea for ourselves and friends to be shipped to our home). Yikes! So worth it tho, supporting this small producer and farm!

Newly roasted beans spilling out of the roaster.

Still hot, the beans make a popping sound, (its the oils)!

Here the beans are being swirled to cool them down.

The beans also continue to expand in size.

My morning breakfast: oranges, papaya, lime and pineapple.

Unfortunately that beautiful coconut sitting there still hasn't been opened

as we don't seem to have a machete lying around.

We arranged to see a Lu'au at the neighboring Hilton Waikoloa resort. Henry was ecstatic about the performance. His favorite parts were the loud drums and the fire dancer! It was a night of Hawaiian food and culture!! :)

Bright eyed!

Hen and Nor with the fire dancer!

Hula dancers

We took another morning to drive through two towns. The first being, Hawi (pronounced Ha-vee) is a cute little hippie town, with jewelry stores, good organic eats and coffee and Kava cafes (more on Kava later).

This is the view from the road on our way from Hawi to Waimea.

Cute town of Hawi!

Waimea is a larger town and more established with the history of Parker Ranch, one of the largest cattle ranches in the United States. Think Hawaiian cowboy! We hoped to have visited some of the original homesteads but were disappointed when we learned they had been closed due to the economy. They are hopeful to re-open. To learn a bit more about Parker Ranch, read HERE.

Hen and I relaxing on the patio!

Signing out, but more to come!

Beach!

2011-04-25T10:13:00.016-06:00

We're here, (today is our 4th day)! Touching down in Kona was beautiful. Seeing the rivers of dry lava marking the land made it seem if we were landing on the moon. What a beautiful place!

After renting our car, we drove about 20 minutes north along the coast line to Waikoloa Beach Resort.

Highway 19

Lava along highway 19

Waikoloa Beach Resort is somewhat displaced among the majority of western coast of Kona, it is kind of like a little oasis. Greenery, palm trees, grass and flowers grow in abundance on the resort grounds. It's a little bizarre but beautiful. There are walking trails within the lava rock rivers (imagine a river of wet lava that runs like twisty streams and has hardened) these streams of lava rock weave throughout the Waikoloa Beach Resort. My sister and I attempted to run them but discovered quickly that it was a potential ankle breaker. We ran instead the perimeter of the resort as well as on highway 19, which made me think of all the amazing triathletes who do the Ironman each year on this road. It kind of made me shutter as Sarah and i ran in the early morning and being surrounded by all that lava rock made the heat billow. I couldn't image running on that road mid-day-talk about being cooked!

Our first morning waking up was magical!

The view from the balcony off my bedroom

We went to Anaehoomalu Bay beach, which isn't far from where we are staying. It is considered one of the best beaches here in Hawaii. It has a rare turtle cleaning station (an area where the turtles come to have the little fishies clean their backs).

Hen and Nor at A Bay Beach, Day 1

Can u spot the turtle?

Yesterday, it was another day at the beach and a dinner out (Merrimans Cafe) where I experienced my first Hawaiian Mai tai! Yum!

Hawaiian Mai Tai!

We have loads of activities scheduled for the rest of the week that we are here.

Today it will be a day at the pool. Tomorrow it will be a trip to see one a coffee plantation and a lu'au!

Stay tuned!

China Seas and Rooibos Tea!

2011-04-15T21:42:00.007-06:00

Tonight I prepped some yummy french-pressed

rooibos tea for the hubby and I.

It was a such a treat!

I combined the tea with frothed almond milk and cinnamon.

The wallpaper in the background is a sample from China Seas.

Plan is to wallpaper a section of my kitchen.

Check back for the transformation! ooh la la!

Adventures on the horizon...

2011-04-13T18:16:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, I was surprised by my mom with a vacation to Hawaii with her, my sister and niece. What excitement! It was even more eventful when I called my sister last night to surprise her with the news. I can't wait to see my sister!! We'll hike, kayak and swim together!
The trip to Hawaii from the east coast will be a long one with a 4 yr old. However, I am not too worried as Henry has had quite a few long flights under his belt. I'll be sure to equip our carry-on with snacks, new books, coloring books, new ipod shows, and some games. I'm looking forward to this as I've never been to Hawaii, but have always wanted to go.
Henry and I will hop on the plane next Thursday, the 21st to San Diego to meet up with my mom, my sister and her daughter Norah. We'll then all head together to Kona the following day.
My mom and sis rented a townhouse on the west coast of Kona Island at the Waikoloa Beach Resort. I am looking forward to this vacation getaway with 'the girls' and Henry. Will be sure to take some pics and update these adventures that lie ahead.

Today involved yet another adventure, of a slightly different nature, but one that I have been pining for, acupuncture. It been a long time coming! When I lived in San Diego I had regular acupuncture visits. It grounded me, it prepped me for childbirth, it kept my body in-tune. DC living can be stressful, busy and full of life, especially while working, being a mom and wife. Keeping in balance in DC is extra difficult to do. I realize now after having been gone some 11 yrs, that most people living here are not that in-tune with nourishing their bodies. So in conjunction with my yoga study, I've started a self adventure with acupuncture. I'm building my community of holistic go-to healers! Taking the time to taking care of me!

Week off

2011-04-10T06:07:00.005-06:00

Downdog-self study

Today marks one week since the end of my first segment of the year long yoga teacher training with Shannon von Burns. I have been on the mat only briefly this week as I feel like my body needed some rest as well as time to mentally take in all that we experienced. I've started on some of the workbook exercises as well as study questions on Ayurveda. Currently I am reading a book called Prakriti by Dr. Svoboda, which is all about Ayurveda and how to better understand the three dosha's (vata, pitta and Kapha) that make up your Prakriti (nature). It is extremely interesting and it is amazingly spot on. More on my personal dosha's later as that will be a post within itself.
One of the most interesting aspects of this training, is that it definitely is a journey to better understand ourselves as yoga individuals before we start to delve into understanding others peoples bodies and personalities. This practice of yoga self study (our bodies and behaviors) will be giving us the tools to better understand others in their yoga process.
This self study is quite extensive and will definitely open windows that I have neglected to look through. I look forward to the adventure!!

Namaste!

2011-04-04T10:57:00.009-06:00

This past week has been incredibly transformative for me! I enjoyed an entire week of yoga teacher training in Hatha Vinyasa. It has been both energizing and exhausting!
I am blessed with the opportunity to train with one of the most impressive yoga teachers out there, Shannon von Burns, who has been teaching Yoga for over 10 years. She comes with a huge background not just in yoga, but Ayurveda and massage therapy to name a few. This past week marked the start to her year long teacher training course called The Journey Home.

This training will be opening my eyes to the skill of teaching by asking us to look, listen, understand, ask, follow through, accountability and looking from within. Methodically. Throughout this week, I've done a lot of listening. I've opened my eyes, ears, mind and heart to Shannon and also have done meditation which has helped me to look into myself to understand my weaknesses as well as my strengths and how to even all these parts of me out.

There are things during this week that I realize I need to work on: stop-completely to listen to others fully, respect time (others as well as my own) and to take better care of myself. There is a lot for me to work on both on and off the mat, but this week has given me the fresh start, the rebirth so to speak, the SPRING!

Bat Days

2011-03-12T15:24:00.014-07:00

We are now experiencing the life of superhero's in our household. From Spiderman to Batman (toy manufacturers have a superb was of marketing to kids as we have never watched these these shows) and even to the likes of Word Girl (this tv program we do watch). We are players in this make believe world. It is a daily ritual to put on capes and become one of our favored invincible hero's.

The make-believe stories change and evolve, the imagination of a child is greater than any tangible source (tv, books etc). Don't get me wrong we love to read and we love a handful of kid tv programs and it is these vehicles as well as other informational tools, like storytelling (we like to make-up as we go) that help bring a child's imagination rolling along.
Delving into Henry's stories, the ones that he concocts from his 'magination,' are incredibly voyeuristic! I love playing along to be apart of the epic.

Batman

Spiderman

Pickle glasses

Bring on the blogging

2010-10-20T19:42:00.004-06:00

It's been a sabbatical from the blogging world. Welcome back.

Here's to the adventures that lie ahead!

California Days

2010-04-26T20:45:00.012-06:00

We had the pleasure of taking a quick trip to San Diego for some R&R/beach time. Hen could not contain himself for the following reasons:
Plane trip
Cousin Norah
San Diego
Beach
Niceh (Nees-ey)
Cousin Norah

For a little tyke, Henry has an incredible memory. Of course he remembers his cousin, but he manages to make the San Diego/beach connection. Well he should as he is a California baby (by birth right-ha ha. He truly IS a beach baby).
Any who, we had a wonderful time. As soon as our tickets were booked I called my acupuncturist Carrie, to get me in for 2 sessions that week. Boy do I need my acupuncture. I so miss it and I haven't gone the extra mile to find someone here in DC. I must admit I do get stuck in the rat race/pace in DC (mental note..don't DO that).
As soon as my body hit that table and the first needle went in, I was relieved. I mean completely relieved. It was pure. It was relaxing and I could breath. All buzzing completely left my body and all my natural rhythms could sync. My body was home.
Having had my acupuncture visits I found that my ability to cope with a roving 3 year was so much EASIER and stable. Wow, what a concept.
After I received my first TREATment at the acupuncturist that Friday, I managed to go with my mom to get a much needed pedicure followed by some shopping.
During my 'free' afternoon of replenishing, Henry had the opportunity to spend time with his old nanny Eunice (aka Niceh) and her son Joshua. It was such a momentous occasion for Hen and I was delighted by his affection towards her. When she arrived that Friday morning, Hen completely shot out like an arrow to throw his arms around her. He was so happy to see her. He also was happy to see Joshua. Their day was filled with playing at park, visiting with her family in Chula Vista and scooters.

Henry with Niceh, Joshua and Norah

During our first visit back to the beach, we anticipated a quick visit to the tide pools in La Jolla (one of my most favorite areas, small beach in the windnsea area of La Jolla). This turned into a 2 hour visit with all clothes off except his skivvies (underwear). He loooovved the water. Loved loved loved it! Wow! This kid has no fear. I don't think he has a full understanding that he can't swim all that well.

Heading for the sea

Norah and Hen playing in the sand

Tidal pool where they find miniature crab

After running in and out from the waves, collecting shells and digging in the sand, we finally rounded up the kids and headed back home to my sisters house.
During that week, the days were full of activity, but I found some much needed relief. I enjoyed walks to the park, the cool crisp breeze, the flowers and the good food!

Hen and I

The child turns 3 and now it's time for Skis!!

2010-03-05T19:44:00.011-07:00

With all this fabulous snow we have had here in the metropolitan area, we took it upon ourselves to take our lil man Hen to the skis slopes. Skiing in the east coast is nothing quite like skiing in the west, but I figure, if you can ski in the east (with all that crap ice) then you definitely can manage the snow in the west (give or take the altitude along with some of those black diamonds). Any way, as far as a 3 year old is concerned this is IT!
We took Henry on Presidents weekend (the Monday) to White Tail. It is a local spot about an hour a half from DC. It is right at the border of Maryland and Pennsylvania. After mentioning it a few times leading up to the big day, Henry was anticipating a new adventure. Sure he knew he was going skiing however, I am not so sure he knew what to expect....the Olympics were on so he had an idea...:)

We decided it was best to get a private instructor who would take Henry out along with the mama and the dada. To initially guide Henry to life on skis but then to also give us the tools to further support him on the slopes. It was FUN!

Henry had a knack for them from the start. With some pretty stellar balance, he managed so well. We started at the lessons slope (the area that is sectioned off for ski school). Phil our instructor, aka Dr Phil, started by taking off one of Henry's skis. Henry at that moment, laid it out to Phil and said, "No, I don't want to ski with one ski, but I want both skis on." Hmm, ok, guess there is no need for the teacher to go over with balance with a child who is not having any true signs of difficulty balancing on the skis. Next skill, Ski walk ski walk ski (one foot in ski the other walking). Ok Henry was going to have NOTHING to do with that, He wanted to ski down the mountain. Point blank he told Phil, "I want to go up on that machine (the chair lift) to the TOP of the mountain and then ski down REALLY fast."

FInally, Phil agreed, we'd go on the chair lift to the top of the mountain and ski down. As our chair lift was a two seater, Phil took Henry up with him, Dean and I followed. Henry LOVED the chair lift, I think it may be one of his favorite parts, the disembarking part and skiing down the ramp (that happened to be the most fearful part for me as a kid, as I was one of those who signaled to the chair lift operator to slow the lift down so I could get off as a little lightie (young one for those who don't speak South African slang).

As Henry and Phil rode up the lift together, Phil explained the ski concepts. "French Fries" aka parallel skis. This was to help Henry not only off the lift but also when it came to skiing down the mountain. He explained that 3 year olds don't comprehend pizza slice (snow plow) to stop, so he doesn't teach it. He teaches these little lighties to either ski to you into your arms and to hockey stop (parallel skis). Very interesting.

Needless to say, Henry maybe only managed to hockey stop 2 or 3 times the whole day (and most likely without realizing that that was what he was doing). All in all, he rocked. My baby was actually skiing. He flat out was doing it and on his own. He kept saying, "I want to go fast. I want to go really fast!" On occasion he aimed for the trees which at times kept me on my heels. It was these moments that I realized he like to ski to the left and not so much to the right (just like his mama). In the same way that I can ice skate better on my left foot than my right and that I skate better on my outside edges then I do on my inside edges. Hmm.
Any who, we continued the day in utter fantasy land. We were all having a blast and it was FUN! We were all having SO MUCH FUN! I loved watching Henry take on the challenge and enjoy it with all his little being.

In the course of a few weeks we have been twice and I hope that we can get in one more ski before the year is up! The second go around was as much fun and this time Henry was starting to figure out that he could jump by bending down into a squat and then picking up his feet, he thought that was utter fun!
Oh the triumphs of a 3 year old!! I am so so proud of him.

Round TWO!

2010-02-10T11:45:00.013-07:00

This snow is INCREDIBLE! INSANE! I've never in my life seen so much snow. And it is still coming down - snow storm number 2!

Here is what things looked like two days ago:

Car is covered.

Hen helping dad with shoveling!

snow pose!

Here is what things look like TODAY:

Yikes!

Mischievous Child!

Needless to say, this time together as a family is a lot of fun! Will post some photos shortly of our our indoor adventures!

Keepin it cozy this weekend!

2010-02-07T07:12:00.011-07:00

It has been a nutty weekend. The snow started here in DC on Friday at 10:45 am. It snowed until Saturday afternoon about 2 pm. It has been such a gorgeous snow! It is prefect timing as Lil Hen and I have been sick with a nasty cold so hunkering down in the house doesn't feel so bad except for now that it is utterly sunny, we do need to get out.

Friday evening.
My car is starting to disappear.

Friday night.
Our back deck is also disappearing!

Saturday morning.
Yikes, my car pretty much disappeared!
Won't be moving that one for awhile.

Sunday morning.
Sunny calm. Can't get out my back door.

This snow is amazing. It is quite unbelievable. I don't recall this much snow, ever in the DC area. Colorado perhaps. But even now, there is not this much snow in the mountains of Colorado. I've kept things quite unplanned and relaxed this weekend as it is just Henry and I. The honey husband went to Utah to ski Park City with his best friend. I'm amazed he made it out as he left early Friday morning when everyone tried to leave DC for the weekend. Needless to say he got bumped from his flight (and without even any courtesy tickets or anything). Instead he ended up taking the train up to NYC and flew out from there. Talk about die-hard to get outta town! Poor guy. He deserves it though as he hasn't had a boys weekend in sometime. My Brother and his fiance made the trek over yesterday for a fire in the fireplace. It was really nice to see some faces as we've been experiencing a little cabin fever Henry and I. Before my brother came over we made some Valentines which was lots of fun!

Henry's Valentines.
Do you see the two Valentine Trucks?

My little bit of California is starting to bloom!
I LOVE jasmine!

Let's see if Dean ends up coming home tonight. I have a feeling our airports are still closed. He may have to fly back into JFK and then train it back home. What an adventure.
My brother is coming to pick us up so that we can get out and about and have a change of scenery too! Looking forward to to an adventure! Apparently, snow is scheduled for Tuesday. Whoa!

A YEAR in Pictures!

2010-02-01T09:53:00.002-07:00

We had an incredible year! Here's to making more memories
and accomplishing our dreams and aspirations!

It's been awhile!

2010-01-20T23:05:00.005-07:00

Oh no no no! I've been sucked into a massive time warp. So much to say! Stay tuned shortly.

weekend away!

2009-11-18T22:51:00.006-07:00

Weekend away!
Xudum Delta Lodge, Botswana

This is something to look forward to! A weekend away with my family. So excited! As much as a trip to Botswana is high on my list of "to do's," there is nothing like going away for a few days to see dear friends. After our hectic day we have planned for tomorrow, we hop in the car and drive to Princeton, NJ to see our good friends Nic and Jodie ! Nic's birthday is Friday so we plan to celebrate, hang out, enjoy their newly built house and eat good food. Must get through day tomorrow.
Hen has no school, so he plays with babysitter for part of the day as I work. We have a pressie to pick up, a bank to make deposit (fortunately not to withdraw), a car to wash. YIKES!
The time-line is written in my calendar and now I must dash to bed before I burn my eyes out.

My little buddy

2009-11-17T22:00:00.009-07:00

Well, well, well. This work thing is getting in the way of posting all sorts of interesting things that come flooding in and out of my brain. There is so much that I would like to record here. Journaling is so cathartic as well as providing a window in the past. Although creating a cyber journal slightly scares me as what if all those important blog posts, special emails could one day completely abolish, disappear, poof into thin air....yes, I know, back up your files (which i do every year, but should probably do every week). That is why I love letter writing, aka snail mail. Need to make a note to mental self to do that more often.
Any who, I am getting into a rhythm here in DC and loving it! The rhythm is slightly fast paced, but includes important facets of life: family, friends and work. I am managing to spend good quality time with family, which includes not only my husband and child but my mom dad, brother, his fiance, aunts and an uncle. My time with my son is as involved as I can be. As I am apart from him a lot of the day, I find those special moments where I can look into his eyes and be present with him, play silly games with him and tell him how much i love him. Friends, yes, I've been making it a point to go out with my girlfriends and am so enjoying that facet of my life too. Girls night out over really good food and wine! Work is exciting intense and busy. But I love that I am using my brain, making a mark and creating something.
I wanted to post a few little pics of hen as he is growing growing growing and speaking so much Spanish that I really am needing to get Rossetta Stone! Yikes help!

"FireLion"
(notice the lion costume is a bit on the small side too, was from his FIRST Halloween)
was this events costume pick!
Halloween party at our neighborhood park
and the rescue truck visited too!

Curious as to what this little one was for Halloween?

Hay fest at Butlers Orchard!

The boys

Digging in the backyard!

Baking Pumpkin Cake

2009-10-14T22:53:00.004-06:00

Falling in with FALL!
I love the Autumn. Soups, teas, pumpkins and squash, uggs, cozy fires, brisk nights and leaves coating the streets. YUM!

Pumpkin Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting by Karina Allrich

I found what looks to be a fantastic recipe for moist Pumpkin cake/bread, gluten-free Pumpkin cake. Since I've moved away from Boulder (where the best GF pumpkin bread is made by Aunt Kay's (of Outrageous Baking Co), I haven't been able to find GOOD moist GF breads. It's either a heavy log or is dry as a desert floor. Two weeks ago I picked up the ingredients for this recipe and it has taken me til this evening at 11:00 PM to start making it. Opps!
Well I just could not put it off one more day. No ways. Now that it is 1 AM, I have finally made it to bed! I will indulge in my pumpkin bread over coffee in the morning. Can't quite believe that I am holding out on this decadence until tomorrow, but I will be sure to post the outcome.
I found my recipe HERE.

Connected, again!

2009-09-28T21:04:00.006-06:00

YAY YAY!
I'm finally connected to the internet. My house has internet. I have internet. We have internet. Connected. Reconnected to the world, thank you!
I had to wait two and a half weeks. Crazy eh? Guess we have technician shortage here in the DC area. Any way, as of this past Saturday we had our FiOs cable and internet installed. Somehow the tech guy managed to have the order incorrect and did not have our phone connection listed on his job list.....gonna have to wait a few more days for our house phone. The blackberry can continue to hold the fort down until then.

As we begin to settle here, I have found myself making connections with old friends. Whether through our children's play dates, on the phone or in the grocery store, it is starting to happen. This helps tremendously with the transition and is a sign that we are beginning to take root. It does feel good.

Boy am I exhausted.
It is as if for the past year and a half I have been on the fight or flight mode, I've kept my head above water, barely and now that we have found our spot and are taking root and slowing down, my system is starting to shut down. I am in need of some kind of retreat, full of self nurturing, a tune-up. Where I can reflect, acknowledge, make plans, sleep a lot, do yoga, eat well, and move on and forward. This is something I am starting to look into and will make an asserted effort to do even if for a night away. I need this.

This past week showed signs of routine! Henry is in his new school. www.communikidspreschool.com and he is really happy to be making friends and creating new relationships. Maestra Samantha, is one of his teachers with whom he has created a special bond. She cuddles with him a lot. This is a very good place for him and am so happy we found it. On the 21st his class is going to go to Butlers Farm in Maryland to pick pumpkins and apples. I've taken the day off so that I can be a chaperon. So excited about going!

As for the work front, I am keeping busy and enjoying teaching tremendously. There is much going on at the moment. From establishing the class calendars, to finalizing all the marketing...waiting waiting on others is VERY hard. The graphic designer is very talented and has loads on his books, but it is very hard to wait for him to complete things like business cards, to web pages and postcards. It is hard to market the business without these things. YIKES!

This past Friday I went to an excellent organic restaurant for a girls night out with one of my oldest friends Christina. We had a blast! We chatted about friends and family including who what and where. We probably could have stayed for at least five hours longer then we did! Christina and I have many many childhood memories together (the middle school ones are simply the best..puberty is such a poignant time in ones life) and I look forward to creating new ones with her and her family. I am very blessed to continue to have her in my life!
We ate delicious swordfish at a restaurant in Bethesda called Redwood. The was the food delicious, as was beautiful, and so is the restaurants decor! It's exterior has mixes of earth (wooden slats) and metal. This continued on through the simple design of the interiors. Despite it's modern decor the (red)wood, creates an abundance of warmth. I will be frequenting this place. The owner has a few other restaurants in the metropolitan area so I will be hopping to those as well!

Tis late and I must go and get some shut eye!

Can I get a WOOT WOOT! (Yes, I am tooting my own horn here)

2009-09-01T15:34:00.005-06:00

Yes! It is all FINALLY coming into place. Our move to DC has been one epic journey. We have now, crossed off all our major to do's in order to go from being newly transplanted to being PLANTED! My biggest bridges to cross have been:

Get Pilates Studio up and running

Find a house

Find a preschool for Henry (Spanish Immersion)

Check, check and check! Of course these were being accomplished all at the same time. I've definitely been running around with my head cut off, which is why I've left my blog to linger alone. As Labor Day approaches, I must get ready to move this weekend, prepare Henry to start school on Tuesday AND teach my first classes also on Tuesday. YIKES!
Needless to say, I am completely prepared to know that my house will be in complete disarray and that things will not be in "their places" before our big day.
I don't want to even get started on what excitement I will have when it comes to decorating my new home too. Yes, I have tons of ideas but must not get hasty here. Breath, and one step at a time PLEASE.
Can I tell you how excited I am? Excited that I am back here in DC, that my family is with me, that we have wonderful family and friends around us and that this is our HOME!

As we nest into our new space, I'll be back more, here in my little blog world too!

Friday calm!

2009-08-21T14:07:00.006-06:00

I am finally feeling partially normal. I guess as I am now getting Henry back on some sort of schedule, poor baba.
Still haven't solidified the house, the school as of yet, but I will be meeting the carpet cleaners at the new Pilates studio on Monday! YAY!

As for now, my little one sleeps. I am sitting and enjoying the rain!

Happy Friday!

WE MADE IT TO DC!

2009-08-20T23:52:00.018-06:00

Backstroke! Henry is loving the pool!

Where the heck has the time gone. All my fellow blogger friends, perhaps you've been wondering where on earth I went...I apologize. This moving states twice within one year is definitely taking years off my life! The great news is we made it to DC and are alive! What an epic journey and I am not so sure I want to relive it on these pages it was so darn epic.

We packed house, trucked it by way of route 80 east through Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland and then DC! What an adventure. I've always traveled in the past by way of 70 so I was keen on a new route. I wasn't really sure what to expect in Nebraska or Iowa as I had never been to those two states, but I was very drawn to Iowa. Perhaps it had to do with the fact that my great grandfather was raised there (his Dad had owned one of the first flour mills there), in Walnut Iowa. The landscape was really lovely. Of course there were farms abound (which I had expected), but what I had not, was the rolling hills! There were farms whose corn crops were on tiered hillsides. I've only seen corn growing on very FLAT land so this was a view to behold. Next thing that surprised me were the wind turbines. Whoa! These large wind mills where scattered everywhere like LARGE ants. It was fascinating!

Wind Turbines outside Walnut, Iowa

Wish I could tell you that the rest of the trip was just as intriguing but alas it was not! I will relieve you of the saga. Let's just say it took a whole extra night to get to DC (we planned two but ended up three) which we were not planning on. Henry was a fab little traveler and loved riding in the truck. After having rode in the high truck with huge windows where he could see the world, the Audi no longer cut it.
Nevertheless, we made it!

Unloading the Rover.

Can u see Henry is helping out too?

Our first 5 days here were spent recouping, unloading our house in storage and spending time with family. I've moved all my equipment in my Pilates studio and am finishing up the last touches before we are ready to "open shop." The past few weeks I've been juggling so many to do's. To start, I am trying to sort out Henry's school. I've seen a couple of really fabulous schools that have Spanish immersion. Now I am on a hunt for a nanny who can supplement a few hours here and there. The third ball in the air, is finding a place to live. Needless to say I'm gonna need a vacation before I start my new job. Ha ha!
Henry has been going through this transition like a super star. He mentioned going home a few times. I know once we get into our own house with his own bed etc, he will be home!
Having my family around has been a huge help. This is something I am so very happy about. The support is tremendous. On top of my family affair, I have wonderful friends here too.

Living out of a suitcase has been a challenge let alone a toddler who is running wild! We are staying at my aunts house which has been incredibly fantastic! We get daily swims in, great conversation and delicious food. Speaking of food, my aunt and I saw Julie and Julia! What a fantastically sweet movie. I loved it. I thought Meryl Streep hit Julia Child right on the money! Her mannerisms and body language was spot on! There were points in the movie where both Trisha and I were literally cackling out loud it was so hilarious!

Pool fun!

Any who back to the juggling, the past few weeks...it has been wild. We're hoping to have things settled by this coming week. Will keep you all posted. I've missed my blog friends and my google reader. In the coming weeks I will be back on track. In the meantime do check in here and there to see what's new!

The Count Down!

2009-07-22T14:39:00.007-06:00

We are officially departing in 9 DAYS. Yes, NINE days, oh, 9! Oh hell. If you could really see my house now.....

Hmmm, got some work to do don't ya think?

What's up with the tent your wondering? As we dig
things out of the basement, Henry has found some 'new' toys to play with!

What have we have been doing all this time since my last post about getting organized for a move (which I did do..but did not complete). You see we've been doing a lot of this:

Swimming and eating by the pool!

More eating and outdoor fun!

Eating more and playing with friends (who we will miss incredibly)

Our summer thus far has been loads of fun! And we are doing what we can to squeeze in the bit that we can before we leave in NINE days!
Starting to really feel mixed emotions. Life in DC will be fantastic as we have family and many close friends there. I can't wait to settle into my new job and get into the rhythm of life there!
And I can't help and feel some sadness too as we are leaving some of our most favorite people and places. We WILL be back to visit!

Come the 31st we will head out on our THREE day road trip!

Creating Buttons

2009-07-16T14:27:00.005-06:00

Oh fun oh fun oh fun!
Today I did some of my very own creating! I am learning how to use html language to create buttons for the company Commandos. Very cool. I'll admit, I couldn't do this on my very own and have found a fabulous blog designer, named April, who has listed various tutorials on her site. I found April Showers Blog Design through the lovely Ali over at Holdenittogether. Thank you ladies so so much!

Here are some of my creations!

This one will be good for those who would like to post on their blogs or websites.
Nice feature is that it links to the Commandos website.

Use promo code COM-KBKb for 10% off.

This one will be used for those doctors and physical therapist whose practice focuses on patients who experience pelvic pain conditions, like Interstitial Cystitis and Vulvodynia.

Soft cotton alternative for painful pelvic conditions.
Click above and use promo code COM-KBK1 for 10% off.

Ok, so these took me all of a few minutes to make so I will definitely continue to play. But at least it is the start to having some more tricks up my sleeve! HA HA!

Happy Half Birthday HENRY!

2009-07-14T14:03:00.004-06:00

Henry is 2 and a HALF today!!

My dear boy, is exactly 2 and a half! He is my joy, my little love bug, who brings the child out of me. Who makes we want to be the best mommy I can possibly be. My two and a half year old is not only sweet as can be but sensitive too! I love it when on his own accord will tell me "bless you" after a sneeze or will tell me "thank you" for helping get a book from the shelf. I adore it when he sings me made up songs about what he loves. I cherish his spontaneous hugs and kisses. I love him.
It is quite hard to believe how time has flown, thinking it was near to 3 years ago that I gave birth to this little being.
This child o mine has had quite an adventure thus far. Traveling to South Africa, moving from San Diego to Boulder and now to Washington DC. The countless flights to California and the east coast. His friends, the ranch, his love for books and cars, and his adventures and experiences at bilingual school. I can only imagine what the world will have in store for him. Where will he live? Where will he travel? What will he do for a living? Will he get married?
As his parent, I realize what we can do is be as present as we can with him every single day. We can teach by setting examples and nurture his interests. He will get to that point in his life where he will chose his own paths.

"I'll love you forever
I'll like you for always,
As long as I'm living
my baby you'll be"
By Robert Munsch and Sheila McGraw

I love you my babes! xoxo mom

Doing, doing and MORE doing!

2009-07-09T09:10:00.009-06:00

So things are starting to get a little messy around here. I am just starting the process of packing house and things are only gonna get messier! Yesterday was paper day. I went through TONS of old piles of paper and files in my office, things that I just don't need. Desperately trying to put things in their place. This way when it comes time to put things in boxes, there aren't those completely random objects, papers and what not thrown in. Here is my approach to prepping for packing:

Few weeks before move:

- Place a box in each room designated for things you want to get rid of (whether you want to donate it or sell it).

-Place a large trash bag for papers and other trash or recycleables.

- Go through desks, drawers places that are likely to accumulate junk, trash etc. Decide what to keep, give or throw away.

-Go through clothing and especially those closets that like to hide things away from you! I have a box filled with clothes that I am going to sell or give away.

-Pair down your magazine collection. If you are a magazine lover like myself, you may have piles of them under your bed, in a closet? I have a huge pile I've been meaning to go through. So now I am flipping through and clipping what I want to keep in my design inspiration binder.
Binders: This system is great if you like to go back to and refer to things. I have binders for: interior design, South Africa, Inspiration/Betterment, Henry ideas (gifts, party ideas), Pilates and personal wish list (great for the hubby to peruse through if he has a hard time figuring out what to buy his wifey). I try to go through the binders often to eliminate and keep things manageable. All in all, this system really helps for my work!

- Try to recycle as much as you can!

- Go through labeled boxes. I have clear boxes that have crafty items, fabric samples, photographs, toys, letters, Henry's artwork. I took a quick peruse through those just to see if I could pair down. Some, but not much.

- Pair down toy collection. No point on keeping those cars whose tires are missing or somehow have been COMPLETELY dimolished.

Somehow, just writing this all out makes me feel that much more organized. However, there is still the garage AND basement. Wish me luck!

DESIGN & LIFESTYLE FRIDAY

2009-07-03T08:55:00.006-06:00

BEACH COTTAGE LIFESTYLE

I am addicted to cottages and beachy ones at that.

(image from www.coastalliving.com)

(image from www.visi.co.za)

(image from www.visi.co.za)

(image from Southern Accents via www.beachcottagelove.blogspot.com)

I do have many tastes from stark white and clean lines to colorful and traditional. To marry the two can be overboard but I think with moderation you can find the happy medium. To be just focus on one genre can be at times boring.

But what excites me the most is the fabric choices you can make in decorating a beach house! Some of my favorites:

All fabric is designed by SEACLOTH

After coveting Cottage Living magazine for many years, I needed to fulfill the void once it went under. Now I get Coastal Living which doesn't quite hold a candle to Cottage Living or Domino for that matter, but I did find the following and think I might enjoy anticipating it's arrival every month in my mailbox...I found this adorable hotel in their July/August issue:

The Surf Lodge

(image from www.thehotelchatter.com)

(image from www.nicoletteandthecity.com)

I think this hotel is pretty fantastic. What makes me excited about going to stay, is it has a bit California surfer style meets Morocco . You don't quite realize your are in Montauk NY (except maybe for the striped chairs). The hotel is owned and designed by Robert McKinley.

Have a lovely weekend!

And....the news is.................

2009-07-02T15:14:00.005-06:00

...that we are packing house and moving to Washington DC!

Wow, ok whirlwind is approaching fast, I know. The life we have lead since May 2008, has been a crazy one. Now we are returning to my hometown and I couldn't be more excited!
Our departure from Boulder is gonna be a sad one, though. I've already shed a tear or two with my friend Carol. I've got a nice handful of fabulous girlfriends here who have children that have become friends with Hen. Definitely hard. We are also leaving behind extended family and the topper to this rather delicious cake, is the ranch. Yikes! I will definitely miss the beauty of Colorado (gotta love the Rocky mountains) as well as the weather (although it is a tad too dry for my vata body. My skin gets super dry).
But I must admit, that what will unfold for us in DC is incredibly exciting. I've been offered a position as Pilates director at a studio (the proposal went very well thank you). YAY! This is huge for me. Another fantastic factor is that both my mom and dad live there as well as my brother Rob (who is newly engaged). There are a schlew of friends who I still keep in touch with who are also still residing there. So we'll transition well.
There is MUCH to do at this point. Am needing to go through the house starting this weekend and decide what is to trash, pack or sell. The garage sale will be great. As I mentioned in my previous post, purging feels oh so good. We must get house packed by the 29th of July as we load on the 30th and head outta town on the 31st. WHAT? yes, we are heading out on the 31st of July. That is exactly 29 days from now. Oh this is gonna go quick. Fortunately, we haven't to worry about finding our house just yet, so we will be staying with family for a bit until we find the right neighborhood (schools, work etc all factor into that). School for Henry is something I am starting to get a bit nervous about as I keep hearing about waitlists. The same goes for here in Boulder, but I will take my time and find the right fit for him. There are numerous bilingual schools there so I know this won't lay over my head for too long.
Yesterday was definitely a day of reflection for me as it was the day that I found out about the job. I took myself for a walk so that I could really look at what we are leaving as well as what we are coming into. There are always the pro's and con's, but for me the biggest motivating factors to move east back to DC are my parents (who I very much want to be apart of Henry's daily life), and the successfulness of our careers. These are pretty big things. Deep down inside I've wanted this for a LONG time!

The bridge to.....

2009-06-30T14:17:00.007-06:00

Not sure yet. So the proposal is sent off and I wait. Waiting is definitely hard to do as is any transition to the next step. Instead of getting overly heady and stressed about what's to come, I am keeping busy with house projects and summer fun activities with Henry.
I am thinking about having a garage sale, I love giving them as I get quite siked up about purging out all the junk that starts to accumulate. Where does Henry get all those darn trucks and cars from? Visits at friends, gifts from family members, our weekly shop at Target ( he wishes), you name it! Hoping it will be a successful one.
Another fun way I recently got rid ofsome things, was a clothing swap (you can get rid but also come home with something "new"). Last Saturday I hosted my first Clothing Swap with my girlfriends. Our friends invited friends. They brought clothing they were tired of, no longer wore or just wanted to rid themselves of. This is a great way to recycle and reuse. After some wine and hors d'oeuvres on the patio we headed to the living room and started to look over each others stuff. It was so fun and everyone made off with something "new!" Will have to host another one of those in the future. Twas successful..I made off with a very cool white leather bracelet, a skirt, a shirt and 2 pairs of brand-spanking new shoes (must have been impulse purchases).

Was just doing some research on Clothing Swaps and came across a plethora of sites.....

Did you know that people are swapping clothing at special scheduled EVENTS across the country? Check out www.clothingswaps.com Wow there is a mecca of this out there. Also there is a site called SwapStyle Where you trade with women online all over the world! Had no idea there was this out there. Very interesting!

Tomorrow I should know more about the outcome of this proposal, please hold thumbs or cross your fingers for me!