Sweet, Mysterious Feast

Almost there: A return to fall

2011-09-01T12:09:00.002-04:00

The official start to fall is still several weeks away, but despite the 90-degree heat, there is something in the air lately that harkens to fall and makes it feel so close, as if it's just past my reach. Fall has so many wonderful qualities, it's almost cliche to list them, but I will tell you that my favorite thing about the season is the feeling that it evokes in the core of my being. It's a cozy feeling ... a stirring, but not restlessness. It's the desire to do more, create more, and feel more present and alive in activities and with others. It's the desire to cuddle up with a book, a cat, or a mug of tea, or to ramble out into the dusk among changing leaves and chimney smoke. This season is when I feel most alive.

Image courtesy of We Heart It

Friday's quote

2010-10-15T11:23:00.000-04:00

"A change in the weather is sufficient to recreate the world and ourselves."

Marcel Proust, French novelist and critic
1871-1922

Image from WeHeartIt

Best fall beverage

2010-10-14T12:28:00.000-04:00

Bonjour mes amis! So good to see you! As usual, this week has been rather busy with my day-job, teaching, computing, and various other tasks. How is the weather where you are? Here, the leaves are beginning to change color and the air is getting cooler and cooler. Fall is my favorite season ... I experience an emotional uplift, a surge in desire to be productive, and more physical energy (I am probably the most sedentary person you know ... not good). I love to take an evening ramble around 8 p.m. I love that delicious fall smell of chimney smoke and burning leaves (you know the one). After an evening walk, I adore a steaming cup of tea (English Breakfast or rose are my favorites), or better yet, a hot cup of tonic.

My sister found the recipe for tonic sometime last year when she was researching health tips online. She found a recipe for a miracle beverage made of water, lemon juice, and honey. Those who drink this delicious tonic regularly report clearer skin, improved digestion, decrease in abdominal pain, increased sense of calm, relief from cold/sinus symptoms, and more. Personally, I find that tonic helps my stomach, and even better, helps me to feel less anxious!

Bring water (amount up to you) to a near-boil and pour into cup

Add juice of at least 1/2 lemon

Stir in 2-3 tbsp of honey

Enjoy!

Image from WeHeartIt

A long overdue hello

2010-10-07T10:41:00.000-04:00

Hello my friends! It has been so long since I've seen you! To be frank, I have been quite bored with myself and have not felt that I've had anything at all interesting to share. I've been a bit uninspired, and I just did not want to inflict myself on you ... until now.

This is the first you've heard of this, but I have recently joined the ranks of those who inspire brilliance, creativity, and greatness in the hearts and minds of youngish people. That's right--I have become a teacher!

In August, after 9 months of hounding a local community college, I received the best news in several years, when I was hired as an adjunct instructor and given two sections to teach. I am adjunct instructor of a first year studies course, which focuses on time management, testing skills, career interests, etc.

So far the experience has been challenging, but enjoyable. I still get the tiniest of butterflies before I enter my classrooms each Monday and Wednesday, and I flounder each week to figure out how to follow the ready-made syllabus and course objectives, keep discipline among the students, and still be a "cool" teacher. This is my very first experience as an educator, and I am feeling my way through. Each class period, I find something that I need to change for next time. I am keeping a document of notes for improvements for next semester so I don't forget what I experience this semester.

While I am feeling my way around, I thought I'd ask those of you who have spent time in education, particularly in higher ed, to send me links, pointers, words of wisdom, book recommendations, affirmations, etc, etc, to help me improve in my teaching, my classroom management, and my confidence as a teacher. I would be ever so grateful!

Image from WeHeartIt.

Dali exhibit

2010-07-05T23:32:00.000-04:00

The Delightful Mount, Inferno

The Furies, Inferno

My mother's favorite artist is surrealist Salvador Dali. I remember as a child, I would look at her huge coffee table book of Dali's work, and because she liked it, I thought it must be good. Today, I don't rate Dali as my favorite artist, but I certainly have a nostalgic attachment to him.

Virgil's Admonishment, Purgatory

The Tree of Punishment, Purgatory

Lucky for my mom and me, we live near the University of Tennessee, and an alumnus donated his collection of Dali's depictions of Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy to the school. Commissioned by the Italian goverment in 1951 to depict the literary masterpiece, Dali immediately set to work. Unfortunately, there was an uproar from Italian citizens that an Italian artist had not been chosen for the job, and the assignment was revoked from Dali. Nevertheless, he proceeded with the work, and from 1951-60, he created 101 watercolor drawings. I recently had the opportunity to visit UT's gallery and view these pieces. Many are very beautiful, but all are provocative and puzzling.

It is interesting to view art and try to lose oneself in it. I don't do it nearly enough. Visiting the Dali exhibit was a great experience because it made me realize that I need to spend more time viewing and learning about art.

Two Circles of Spirits, Paradise

The Apparition of St. James, Paradise

All images from Lockport Street Gallery

Summertime ...

2010-07-05T00:12:00.000-04:00

... and the livin' ain't easy!

Hello dearest friends! I must apologize for taking an extremely long hiatus from blogging. I think my last real post was in April? Terrible, I know. I guess I lost the blogging spirit for a while ...

If you're wondering about the title of this post, I feel it's only fair to warn you to brace yourself, because what I am about to say might be a bit shocking--I absolutely loathe summer.

That's right--summer is my least favorite season of all, and there are several reasons why.

First, the heat. I really can't stand wet, sticky, muggy heat. In East Tennessee, our summers run from about May to October. Once July hits, the temp stays around 90+ (and a high of "only" 90 is actually a relief) and doesn't let up until mid-September. Not only is the temperature ridiculous, the humidity is so oppressive that it's almost as though you're walking through a hot shower all day. Not comfortable, and not conducive to looking one's best. Between frizzy hair and sweaty/oily skin, it's nearly impossible to maintain one's sweet mysteriousness.

Second, the melting of my mental faculties. I have noticed this for this past couple of years. Once May hits, my ability to sit down with a good book is remarkably diminished--and reading is absolutely my favorite thing to do. Not only does progress on my book list take a hit, but so do my interests in drawing, cooking, stimulating conversation, cleaning, self-care, and basically anything productive or that might make my life a little more pleasant. My mother says this happens because from June to September, human beings are the farthest from their spiritual origins of any other time of the year, which makes concentration difficult. Makes sense to me, but whatever the reason, I feel totally stunted and unmotivated. : ( I think this could be why my blogging has taken such a hit. Watching movies is about the only thing I want to do during this season.

Third, summer makes me physically uncomfortable. It's not just the heat, though that's a confounding factor. It's the sun. While I can revel in the beauty of a sunny day like anyone else, I do not enjoy being exposed to summer sun. After 10 minutes of summer sun exposure, my skin literally breaks out into tiny red bumps that crust over with dry skin. It's so unattractive! I love the beach, but prefer to visit in April or September when I can sit outside without resembling a big raspberry.

Finally, I feel stuck and impatient due to waiting for my favorite season, fall. Each fall, you can find me in any number of settings: curled up with Jane Eyre, baking blackberry wine cakes or cranberry orange muffins (best recipe ever--I must share in a few months!), taking a crisp evening ramble, watching a Jane Austen film adaptation, and engaging in home improvement projects. With three months left before I'll get my energy back, I'm grumpy and listless.

It seems that summer-haters are few and far between, but I can't imagine I'm the only one who feels this way. I've polled my friends, and the consensus is that summer is great. I feel alone in my principles.

So my question: does anyone else feel the way I do about summer? I would love to know that I'm not the only one beckoning fall to set in early this year.

Image thanks to WeHeartI t

Movie of the week

2010-06-20T15:58:00.001-04:00

Jonah Hex, starring Josh Brolin and John Malkovitch

Note: Contains spoilers (but it might save you $7.50)

My sister and I are HUGE (and I mean HUGE) Michael Fassbender fans, so we have been waiting to see his latest project, Jonah Hex. It opened Friday, June 18, to some pretty rotten reviews. We almost let that deter us from seeing it, but we decided it was important to lend support to our favorite 33-year-old Irish actor (Fassbender). I thought that most of the reviews came from people who loved the comic books, so they would understandably have higher standards for the movie.

Boy, was I wrong. To put it kindly, this movie is bad--just plain bad.

It's only 80 minutes, so there was little time for plot development or for the viewer to understand character motivations. For instance, I didn't understand why the villain, Confederate officer Quentin Turnbull (John Malkovitch), wanted to destroy the country. I get that he was angry about his son's death, but why would that make him want to unleash a weapon of mass destruction? So for one, the movie would have been a lot better if there had been time for more back story and to understand why characters made certain decisions.

Second, the main character, Jonah Hex (Josh Brolin), wasn't someone I could sympathize with. Sure, I understood his sadness and rage over losing his family at the hands of Turnbull, and I can't blame him for wanting revenge, but I never saw any display of moral fortitude or qualities that made him a dark horse hero. For example, he only decided to help bring Turnbull down (and thus save the country) in order to get his revenge on the man, not because he cared about a higher ideal. In short, he didn't stand for anything other than vengeance against the man who murdered his family.

Finally, as a lover of action movies, the fight scenes and action sequences did nothing for me. I was especially excited to see the "fight scene" between Lila (Megan Fox) and Burke (Fassbender), but it amounted to little more than a slap and a punch and some dragging by the hair. Not exciting at all. This made me sad.

There have been some mean comments made about Megan Fox. I assume these comments are made by people who are jealous of her, and sure, how can most of us gals not be? She's truly gorgeous. But this shouldn't make us be mean about her. Some people have said that her acting was bad, but I didn't find that. I don't think her role was very interesting, but that's not entirely her fault. I don't think there was much she could do with that character. I'll say the same about Brolin--we all know him from No County for Old Men, W, and Milk, and we know he's a great, accomplished actor--but I wasn't too impressed by his performance and I think it's because the character (as it is written for the film) was so one-dimensional. This I will say about Megan Fox--I'd like to see her take a few roles that have nothing to do with her looks or with her being the hot young female interest. I'd like to see what she can do with her brain and inner qualities, and then I'd like to judge her as an actor based on those performances. At this time, I feel it is premature and unfair to judge Megan's abilities. She is just doing what anyone trying to break into the industry would do--get work based on what people consider to be her hottest commodity (looks) so that she can get experience and make a name for herself. All actors have to start out in some rotten films and they get their roles based on their type. It's kind of hard to ignore that she's beautiful, so unfortunately, that's all that she is known for now. Let's give her a break until she proves she can't do much with better material.

The best part of the film was, of course, Michael Fassbender. What I liked about his performance is that you can tell he committed to his character. I wonder if on some balmy New Orleans evening he had his pint and thought, "This feckin' film is a disaster! This director better quit arsing around and acting the maggot!" (Thanks, irishslang.net) Even if he did feel this way, you wouldn't know it by his performance. He handled his sociopath, mayhem-loving Burke with energy and sick humor. Too bad the film couldn't better showcase his gifts.

Rating: 1/5 (Fassbender single-handedly provides any redeeming value in this movie)

Quote

2010-04-16T10:53:00.001-04:00

"The most important things are the hardest things to say. They are the things you get ashamed of because words diminish your feelings - words shrink things that seem timeless when they are in your head to no more than living size when they are brought out."

Stephen King

Movie updates and reviews

2010-04-13T22:45:00.003-04:00

In the past few weeks, I've seen the following films:

Fish Tank (2009, UK)

SMF Rating: 4/5 stars

This film is about a teenaged girl, Mia (newcomer Katie Jarvis), who lives with her little sister and her negligent and abusive mother. Mia meets her mother's new boyfriend, Connor (the excellent Michael Fassbender), and she has an almost instant curiosity/attraction for him--probably because he's decent to her and her sister. Mia loves dancing and Connor encourages her to pursue her dream. This film's story and characters are pretty bleak, but they are not hopeless. I liked the film enough to watch it twice. It's not an uplifting movie, nor is it visually appealing, nor is it any fun, but it's good.

Inglourious Basterds (2009, US)

SMF Rating: 5 stars!

I was reluctant to see Tarantino's latest masterpiece. I had envisioned it to be too gory and too irreverent. I had also heard conflicting reviews of the film from friends--some loved it, others hated it. So it took me a long time to finally sit down and watch it, but I am so, so glad that I did. This film, set in Nazi-occupied France, is about a group of American soldiers who get their kicks from killing Nazis. Brad Pitt plays Lt. Aldo Raine, and I must say that he delivers an unmistakable East TN accent (and I would know--Maynardville's just up the holler from me). The film also tells the story of a young Jewish woman who witnesses her family murdered by Colonel SS Hans Landa (the brilliant Christoph Waltz), and who plots her revenge when circumstances come together for her later. This is really not the best summary of the film, but there are many compelling characters and a lot that takes place, and I cheapen the film by trying to describe too much. I will say that there are many great scenes, such as the opening scene and the tavern scene--so, so amazing. I was not expecting to like this film, but it's possibly the best one I've seen in the past year or two. I can't remember the last time I saw a movie that stuck with me so much after seeing it.

Goodbye Lenin (2003, Germany)

SMF Rating: 4/5 stars

This German film takes place in 1989-90 around the time the Berlin Wall fell. The film follows the protagonist, an East German youth, Alexander (Daniel Bruhl), whose mother falls into a coma before the wall falls. When she wakes up, the doctors warn against her receiving any shocking news, so Alexander goes to great pains to keep the unification of East and West Germany a secret. This film is funny at parts and very touching, and it depicts the troubles faced by East Germans when they lost their way of life and had to adapt to living in a new culture. It also contains beautiful piano music.

Eden Lake (2008, UK)

SMF Rating: 4/5 stars
This British horror movie depicts a young couple, Steve and Jenny (played by Michael Fassbender and Kelly Reilly), who go on a weekend getaway. Steve plans to propose to Jenny during what he hopes will be a relaxing and picturesque weekend on the lake. What they find instead is a group of angry young teenagers who run around town picking on people, stealing, and generally causing trouble. The kids go to the lake where Steve and Jenny are camping, Steve confronts them, which begins the conflict. After the couple's car is stolen, Steve and the kids get into a violent confrontation, and Steve and Jenny find themselves running for their lives. I do not usually like horror films, and I didn't "like" this one. I didn't enjoy watching it, and I probably would not watch it again. But I must admit, this is one of the better horror movies I've seen. The pacing, characterizations, and story are very good. If you like hopeless horror movies, you might like to check this one out.

Brothers (2009, US)
SMF Rating: 2/5 stars
This film seemed promising at first. A young Marine, Sam (Toby Maguire), goes missing in action and is presumed dead by his family. His black sheep brother, Tommy (Jake Gyllenhaal), steps up and takes responsibility for helping Sam's wife and children. When Sam is located as a POW in the Middle East, he returns home with a dark secret that affects his ability to return to a normal life. He is suspicious of the relationship between his wife, Grace (Natalie Portman), and Tommy. Unable to readjust to his former life, Sam flips out about nearly everything and basically proves to his family that it would have been better had he stayed missing. This film is pretty good until Sam comes home, then it falls flat and misses the mark. It would have been much better if Sam had returned home crazier, and the death of one of the brothers would have helped drive home the film's message. Since neither brother dies and Sam's behavior isn't as disturbing and frightening as it could have been, this film is dissatisfying.

The Blind Side (2009, US)

SMF Rating: 3/5 stars
Everyone's pretty familiar with this one, I imagine. Sandra Bullock won the Oscar for best actress this year for her portrayal of Leigh Anne Tuohy, a woman who takes in a homeless Black youth, Michael. This film is based on the true story of a young man who achieves great success after finding an adoptive family who believes in him and encourages his talents. It is a good story, but the film seems to rely on more than a few cliche moments to render an emotional response in viewers. It comes off rather contrived. This film delivers the message that sometimes a person from even the most bleak background can achieve greateness if someone believes in him/her--a message that has been told many times in better movies than this one.

How do you stay positive?

2010-04-13T14:20:00.000-04:00

I've been away from my blog for too long, and I'm glad to be getting back into it. These past few weeks are the first time that I've abandoned my blog for so long! This winter was the first time that I've experienced any sort of seasonal emotional issues. It has been a long time since I have felt upbeat and cheerful, and thankfully, I'm starting to come around. I've been focusing on making the best of things at work, and just staying positive that one day soon I'll be able to devote myself to my true calling and that I won't have to work unfulfilling jobs too much longer. We'll see.

So, I wanted to ask, how do you stay upbeat and positive when it seems that your life isn't going the way you want/need it to? For me, I try to do the following:

Try (try! try!) to focus on the positive, especially in the environments where you feel the worst--for me, it's at work. I simply do not like my job, and I don't click with some of my coworkers. I don't feel that the job I do, or the function of my office, is very meaningful (although I recognize that the people we serve may disagree). My pay is truly pitiful. I've searched for better jobs since I got my current one over two years ago, yet I've found nothing. All that said, recently I've received new assignments and projects, and I'm looking at these as opportunities to learn new skills and to network. I still make peanuts, I still have to get up earlier than I want to, and I still dislike my job, but these new projects give me a renewed sense of purpose.
Pray or meditate. I try to do something to reassure myself. I am a spiritual person, and I have faith in a higher being. When things get rough, I try to remind myself to have faith in that higher power and in where my life is headed. Sometimes we have to step back and ask ourselves, "Have I done anything I should be ashamed of? Am I being blatantly irresponsible? Have I refused to learn from past mistakes?" If the answer is no, it's time to take a deep breath and have faith that what's happening is just a bump in the road leading to where we really want to be.
Have fun and engage in things you enjoy. I like reading, writing, watching movies, and hanging out with family and friends. I try to make more time for these activities when I'm feeling especially low.
Be sure to make time for yourself. It's easy to let work and familial obligations take precedence over your own needs, but you need to make yourself a priority. Yes, you should honor your commitments, but you should also regard yourself as a commitment. If you really feel the need to stay in bed till noon on Saturday, listen to that need. Don't engage in unhealthy behaviors simply because you want to, but cut yourself some slack. You do NOT have to wake up at 7 a.m. on the weekends just because your spouse or parent wants to go to Home Depot before it gets crowded. Sometimes you need to let people fend for themselves. Maintain a 50/50 balance.

What do you do to stay positive when you feel down?

Tuesday's tune

2010-04-13T13:43:00.001-04:00

One of my favorite Pink Floyd songs.

Monday's movie

2010-03-22T14:40:00.000-04:00

I saw Tim Burton's new film, Alice in Wonderland, during opening weekend a couple of weeks ago. Alice is one of my favorite works of literature. I love it for its imagination, nonsense, and whimsy. I adore the Sir John Tenniel illustrations. I own a set each of Alice-themed tea cups and coffee cups. Just the other day, I purchased Carroll's preliminary work, Alice Under Ground. I am a fan. It seems that it's pretty trendy to be a fan right now, but all I can say is that a bunch of us must have pretty good taste.

That said, I absolutely hated this film version. I found the graphics cheesey, the storyline BORING, and the characterization of Alice to be flat, uncompelling, and again, boring. I don't usually leave a movie with the feeling of "hated it!" but I absolutely I felt like I had wasted a good two hours and $7. This version starts off with grown-up Alice having to deal with the constraints of society and an unwanted marriage proposal from a man who clearly does not tolerate her daydreams and whimsies. She falls down a rabbit hole (surprise) and finds out that she may have once visited Wonderland, and that she is fated to take on the great beast, the Jabberwocky, in order to restore order and proper rule to the land.

Likes:

Costumes
Johnny Depp's acting is superb--did we expect anything else?
Helena Bonham Carter stole the show. Her characterization of the Red Queen is wonderful.

Dislikes:
Everything else. I looked forward to this movie long before the actual previews came out, and it fell far short of my expectations.

SMF rating: 1/5 stars

Time for some eye candy

2010-03-22T14:18:00.001-04:00

I've taken an impromptu hiatus from SMF for the past several weeks. I haven't been in the blogging spirit, sadly. I've felt: sickly, sad, busy, inspired, unmotivated, determined, disappointed, nervous, tired.....

For everyone feeling any of the above emotions, I've compiled some soul-restoring eye candy from my favorite of image sites, WeHeartIt. Enjoy!

Everyone's a critic

2010-03-01T08:30:00.000-05:00

This week's movie is The Wolfman, starring Benicio Del Toro, Anthony Hopkins, and Emily Blunt. My sis and I saw it yesterday. I love films that involve both strong action sequences and elements of fantasy and folklore, so this weekend's move pick was an easy choice.

The film starts out with Lawrence (Del Toro) returning home after spending many years estranged from his family. He meets his deceased brother's fiance (Blunt) and promises her that he will find out what happened to his brother, who was viciously murdered by an unknown assailant. During his investigations, Lawrence learns that a werewolf probably killed his brother. Unfortunately, Lawrence is bitten by the werewolf, which causes him obvious problems. Toward the end, he unearths some interesting secrets about himself and his family.

Likes:

Exciting action sequences--I was never bored!
Fantastical elements, i.e. werewolf folklore
Casting--I really like Benicio Del Toro and Emily Blunt. Hugo Weaving (The Matrix, V for Vendetta) plays a supporting role, and he's very good.
Atmospheric elements--beautiful setting, great cinematography, stirring score.

Dislikes:

Lack of character development in the supporting roles
Big secrets were sloppily explained and left much for the viewer to infer--I would have liked more background and more explanation of the relationship between Lawrence and his father
I would have enjoyed more of a "history lesson" on werewolves

Sweet, Mysterious Rating: 3/5 stars

BIC HOK TAM!

2010-02-28T22:47:00.000-05:00

Butt in Chair, Hands on Keyboard, Typing Away Madly!

I have recently joined an online writing community called Book in a Week. The purpose of this project is to bring writers together to pledge a writing goal during the first full week of each month. March's challenge begins tomorrow, March 1, and goes until 8 a.m. next Monday, March 8.

The minimum goal that a participating writer can pledge is 10 pages (2500 words). Because I work full-time, I have pledged 15 pages. It's not a lot, but I do not want to set my goal too high during my first time participating. The main point of doing something like this is to make a public goal as a way of holding oneself accountable. Participants are supposed to check in each day, and if you don't check in by the Wednesday after the challenge begins, you are removed from participating. Another benefit of joining something like this, in addition to the accountability factor, is to become part of a community of people who share each others' interests.

I joined BIW for three reasons:

First, I liked the idea of having to make a writing goal public, even for only one week each month. If I join a community and pledge a goal, and then not participate, I lose credibility. This project is a good way to make my writing aspirations more concrete.

Second, I think it's important to join communities of people who share our interests. I am interested in writing and establishing myself as a writer, even if I am "unknown" for a long while. By joining BIW, I will meet other writers, build relationships, and learn from my peers. Joining a community of peers is also a great way to make your goal a part of your identity. Being part of a writing group, and taking part in a monthly challenge, will help me to more strongly self-identify as a writer.

Third, as an inexperienced writer, I feel that I need a way to hit the ground running with my writing. Sure, I'm not going to come out with a Pulitzer Prize-winning piece, but at least I'll be writing. Committing to write 3750 words this week requires discipline. When I come home from being in front of a computer for nine hours, I'm not necessarily in the mood to sit at my computer for the rest of the evening. However, if I don't develop a sense of discipline and structure with my writing, how will I ever be able to leave my boring day job? I must commit seriously to this new part of my life, a part that I've ignored for far too long.

I will be checking in here on SMF periodically throughout the week to post my progress. I hope to post daily and share my struggles and excitement. Here's to a week of BIC HOK TAM!

Thursday's covet

2010-02-25T10:54:00.001-05:00

This entire outfit, from Anthropologie. I love it! These days, I'm really into soft, romantic pretty clothes. I love the femininity of this outfit, but I also love that the color scheme is neutral instead of "girly" pastels. Don't get me wrong--I love pink, yellow, and pale blue--but the neutrals in this look lend sophistication to an outfit that would otherwise be a little youthful or overly girly. I especially love the shoes and shorts. What do you think?

Monday's movie

2010-02-22T11:04:00.000-05:00

For the past couple of months, I've been dying to see Martin Scorsese's new film, Shutter Island. It finally came out this weekend, and I saw it yesterday.

I really enjoyed this movie. It is suspenseful and alarming, and it kept me constantly on edge wondering what would happen next or what it was that I was not seeing on the surface. It's the kind of film where you know that things are not at all as they appear, but your inner-sleuthing actually leads you further from the truth.

Likes:

A talented cast. Ben Kingsley is wonderful. Leonardo DiCaprio is superb. One of the things I most admire about Leo is that his face is so expressive; he has such a wonderful way of using his face to express what the character feels and goes through. I first noticed that quality when I saw Revolutionary Road.
The suspense. I love thriller/suspense/mystery films. I love knowing that there's something lurking behind what we're allowed to see as an audience, and I love trying to figure it out. This film definitely leaves you with a pit in your stomach.
The camera work and cinematography. This film's "look" is perfect for the story. It's a visually appealing film. It's set in the early 1950s, so the sets and costumes lend considerable vintage appeal. I believe that the time period lends a mysterious element to the story, since it is set at a maximum security mental institution, and mental health care during this time left much to be desired. It makes you worry about what you may learn.
The soundtrack/score was the perfect complement to the film. I think it's really beautiful; it lent suspense to the scenes that called for it, but it also provided a tones of melancholy, tenderness, and frustration.
The story. Like I've mentioned, the story is surprising and thought-provoking. What I admire most in the crafting of this film is that so much mistrust and secrecy is built up, that it was hard for me to accept that the ending was actually the truth.

Dislikes:

Not too much to complain about here. Ironically, after saying how much I loved the story, I will admit that I found the story to be somewhat overused. The concept has been touched upon numerous times in other films. I don't want to give anything away, so I won't go into detail, but my only complaint is that while the story is excellent and suprising, I was a little disappointed that this particular concept had been used again once I find out what was really going on. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the movie and recommend it without hesitation.

My rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Friday's quote

2010-02-19T13:58:00.000-05:00

"Don't think. Thinking is the enemy of creativity. It's self-conscious, and anything self-conscious is lousy. You can't try to do things. You simply must do things."

Ray Bradbury

The Artist's Studio

2010-02-14T15:44:00.000-05:00

Today, I'm debuting my new feature, The Artist's Studio. For this feature, I will post an interview with a creative spirit that I've encountered in Internetland. I hope to post this feature at least monthly!

Artist: Lori Anderson of Lori Anderson Designs,

Jewelry that makes people ask...

"Where did you get that?" ®

Where you can find Lori:

www.lorianderson.net

www.prettythingsblog.com

www.AnArtistsYearOff.com

Biographical Information:
Lori Anderson, Easton, MD, 40, married with a seven year old boy, Zachary, and two cats. I’m prior military (USAF, Korean Linguist) and went to University of Virginia for premed, graduated with a Biology degree and took all the microbiology types of courses I could find. I’m very, very far away from that now, although my attention to detail is a direct result of both of those careers. I’ve traveled quite a bit – lived in Italy for three months trying to “find” myself (I found myself, I was there all along), lived in Korea while in the Air Force, visited the north of Japan for two weeks – I love to travel. But now I have a child and don’t do international travel, other than in books.
What kind of artistic endeavors do you engage in most often? I’m a jewelry artist, but I love to write as well. This year I’m taking a lot of time off to learn new things, like making my own glass beads, learning how to doodle (that’s an art, it is it is!), learning about art journaling, and getting back into designing flower gardens (something I did with a passion before I had Zack).
What initially led you to your craft?
I was on bed rest and a friend brought me some beads to give me something to do. The rest is history – I jumped in with both feet, my husband supported it 110%, and now it’s a full time job and there are NOT enough hours in the day to run this business.
How do you stay engaged in what you do? How do you overcome creative blocks and stagnation? When I get a block, I quit beading and start buying, ironically. I browse Etsy and buy some new beads. The beads are what inspire me – I know almost instantly what they’ll become as soon as I see them – so buying new beads helps. If I’m REALLY stuck, I just quit for a while and knit or go to the book store (my other HUGE passion is books) and spend a few days doing nothing at all related to beads.
Describe your daily routine as it applies to your creative pursuits. I get up and get my son to school, then hit the gym. I come home and start to work making jewelry. I like to work when the light is at its best. After my husband and son get home and homework and dinner is done, I get internet and shipping work done. When Zack goes to bed, it’s back to design work. I try not to do much work while Zack is home, but focus on him, so I end up staying up quite late. Weekends are always work days, very intense ones, actually.
What inspires you? Do you engage in specific habits to stay inspired? The beads are the inspiration. Having a constant rotating stash keeps me going.
What obstacles have been in the way of pursuing your craft? How have you overcome them?
I recently was diagnosed with pseudotumor cerebri, also called intracranial hypertension. Basically, I make too much cerebrospinal fluid and it pushes on my brain and gives me hellish migraines and pain in my eyes and head. Think of a migraine on a migraine and in the eyes as well. I never know day to day if I’ll have a splitting headache, or even be able to see well, so I have to work as hard as I can every day to make up for what may be coming. It’s daunting, but I’m making it work.
What is the one thing that you do that never fails to get your creative energy flowing? Every few weeks, I get a Saturday alone. I call it Zen Time. Rick and Zack go to the farm and I get the day and night alone to veg and bead and create. The quiet and the freedom to do what needs to get done without any other things on my list is vital to my creativity. It sounds terrible, wanting that time alone, but it makes me a better mom and wife and artist the rest of the time!
What advice would you offer to others who wish to pursue a creative path? Never, ever, ever think you can’t do it. Don’t let anyone say you can’t.

A non-romantic Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T12:44:00.001-05:00

I find Valentine's Day to be a rather pointless holiday. However, the nice thing about this holiday is that it gives us an excuse to do something a little out of the ordinary for ourselves and loved ones. Without further ado, some ideas for spending a nice solo Valentine's Day:

Visit your local gourmet foods store and browse. Enjoy the aroma of the $20 coffees, admire the beauty of the chocolate bars and jars of jam, and perhaps purchase some tea you haven't tried.
Give yourself a little love with an at-home spa day: apply face masks, whip up a homemade hair treatment, give yourself a nice manicure, color your hair with a semi-permanent dye....
Beautify your surroundings: pick up a lovely bouquet of flowers and put them in a prominent place in your home, somewhere you will see them often. Spruce up your bedroom by changing the sheets, getting new throw pillows, or rearranging some objets d'art.
Bake some decadent treats like pretty cupcakes or cookies.
Go to the bookstore or library and pick up a nice thick book to read on these cold February nights.
Do something for a loved one. Valentine's Day doesn't have to be about romance! The recipient can be your mom, dad, best friend, sister, whomever... Express your appreciation for that special person in any way you choose. You could write a letter, draw something, knit a scarf, clean the house, make dinner--the choice is yours.

Photo: Yumi via Flickr

Friday's quote

2010-02-12T15:26:00.001-05:00

"You get ideas from daydreaming. You get ideas from being bored. You get ideas all the time. The only difference between writers and other people is we notice when we're doing it."

Neil Gaiman

I'm reading my third Neil Gaiman book right now, Neverwhere. I must admit, I have quite a thing for this man.

Wednesday's inspiration sources

2010-02-10T19:56:00.000-05:00

I'm waiting impatiently for spring and looking forward to all its glorious flowers.

Photo: Kirsten M. Lentoff via Flickr

Strong Turkish coffee served in dainty cups. I've always wanted to visit Istanbul.

Photo: Kuzeytac via Flickr

This photo of Anne Sexton reminds me of what I need to be doing every day. And don't her eyes look pretty?
Image thanks to WeHeartIt

This just because it's pretty. I live for the day I can decorate a house again.
Image thanks to WeHeartIt

I adore this photo of Constance Talmadge.
Image thanks to WeHeartIt

Other than the stuffed fox, this might be the most amazing room ever.
Image thanks to WeHeartIt

Tuesday's tune

2010-02-09T12:56:00.000-05:00

The Moody Blues is one of my favorite musical groups of all time. I basically grew up on them, thanks to my parents. "Story in Your Eyes" is one of my favorite songs from them.

Cultivating creativity

2010-02-08T11:21:00.001-05:00

Have you ever felt insecure about your creativity? Do you ever feel as though you are a creative person, but that you have no good ideas? Or that you can't be sure if your latest good idea is actually original?

I often struggle with my self-image as a creative person. When I am honest with myself, I acknowledge that my soul yearns for a means of creative expression. I can admit that there have been times in my life that I have displayed some artistic talent. But other times, I feel as though I am an imposter; someone who thinks she is an "artist" but who has no real art within her soul. Truth be told, I've had artistic leanings since a very young age. When I was very young, ages 5-10, I wanted to be an "artist." My favorite things to do when I was a child dealt with drawing, painting, and making and building things. When I hit high school, I took every art class my school offered. I spent all four years taking at least one, if not more, art class each term. As a teen, I spent nearly every day after school hunched in a corner of my room listening to CDs while scribbling away in various notebooks. I mainly wrote poems. I also liked to make lists with titles such as "What To Do Before College," "Books to Read in My Lifetime," and "What I Find Sexy" (which included: Australians, red lipstick, and sandy-haired men with blue eyes). In addition to poems and lists, I probably wrote the beginnings of at least 15-20 short stories during my adolescence. I don't recall ever finishing one story. Nonetheless, I spent nearly all of my adolescence scribbling away, trying to express myself in writing. Today, my creative impulses lean more toward writing than anything else. When I began college, I decided to double-major in Engish and Fine Arts. By the time I came to the end of my sophomore year, I abandoned English and art because my natural practicality kicked in, and I thought I wouldn't be able to make a living from degrees in those areas (ironically and perhaps comically, I'm hardly making a living off my Psych degree and minor in French).

I don't believe that I am truly an imposter, like I've described above. I'm convinced that there is something within me that desires unleashing and that deserves a chance to be born. Why else would I be so drawn to creation all through my life, from my early childhood into college? None of us who live for beauty, literature, music, and art are imposters. But when we abandon our creativity for practicality, and realize our mistakes, how do we claw our way back to our inner-artists?

Ideas for rekindling and maintaining one's creative fire:

Listen to music. The root of "music" is "muse," thus it follows that music breeds inspiration. My sister says that music is "one of the most beautiful media through which the soul can express itself." I believe that music is much more than lyrics. I always say, if you simply want great lyrics, read a poem. Music, for me, is the actual sound, the music-ness of music.
For that matter, enjoy other creative media. See as many movies as you have the time and money for. Go to art exhibits. Go to concerts.
Read as many books as you can. Read read read read read! And then read some more. Truly, my most heartening inspirations come from what I read. My father always told me that if I want to be a good writer, I must read everything I could.
Pay attention to what's around you. Admire the unique beauty of the young barista at your local bookstore. Let your mind make up a story about the old couple walking ahead of you on the street. Appreciate the falling leaves, the budding tree branches, the wafting haze rising off a hot charcoal grill...notice everything and appreciate it all. One time I took my laptop to my local Border's bookstore so I could work on a paper for grad school. A knitting group was meeting at the next table, and I couldn't help overhearing their conversations, and I was struck by how eclectic and interesting they were! I opened a new document on my computer and spent a few minutes describing everything I heard and saw. I haven't done anything with those notes, but it was an interesting exercise.
Pay attention to what really speaks to you. When you find something that leaps out at you, hang on to it. If you find a striking photo in a magazine, cut it out. Same goes for inspiring quotes and words. Make an inspiration book or corkboard and fill it with your beautiful cuttings. When you need ideas or mental/visual stimulation, look at your inspiration book.
Subscribe to relevant journals and magazines. Try out the peridocals section at your bookstore. Flip through magazines that appeal to you. Write down the ones you want to read again. Look online for those that pertain to your craft of choice. Whether you are a dancer, a potter, a poet, or a dollmaker, you can likely find at least two or three journals or magazines to subscribe to. Books are wonderful, and are my top choice, but magazines are current. You get new information and new ideas every couple of months. You begin recognizing names. You learn about emerging trends. You find out about conferences and workshops. Periodicals are an excellent way to build your knowledge base.
Take classes, register for workshops, and try out exercises in books. Try constantly to keep your mind fresh and engaged in new and different material. If you are a short-story writer, it wouldn't hurt to take a poetry workshop. Sure, you may not go home a newly confirmed poet, but you'll stretch your creative muscles and use your mind in an unfamiliar way.
Visit blogs. Really. One of the best things I did last year was begin my blog because it led me to OTHER blogs. I began visiting new blogs everyday and found many that appealed to my aesthetic, mental, and creative sides. In fact, I attribute my most recent ideas and mental shifts to entering the blog world. Blogging is also a great way to come in contact with other creative spirits and make connections.
Keep a notebook or journal with you at all times, or at least a scrap of paper and a pen. You'll need to be able to jot down any and all ideas that come to you. You don't want to be caught somewhere with The Next Great Idea and forget about it before you get home. This is an obvious tip but one that many of us overlook.

Friends, I am dying to know--what can you add to this list? How do you jump-start your creativity when you feel uninspired?

Image thanks to WeHeartIt.

Thursday's covet

2010-02-04T13:52:00.001-05:00

Seychelle's "Reservations for Two"

I love the color and shape of these heels. They're just so pretty!

Tuesday's tune

2010-02-02T19:17:00.000-05:00

"Whiskey in the Jar" is one of my favorite songs. It's a traditional Irish folk song, and as you can see, many bands have covered it. I have listed three covers here, one each from The Dubliners, Thin Lizzy, and Metallica. I have to say, I really love Metallica's version. It gets my blood pumping a bit more than the other versions I've heard.

I would love to hear this song in a pub!

Traditional lyrics:

As I was going over the far famed Kerry mountains
I met with captain Farrell and his money he was counting.
I first produced my pistol, and then produced my rapier.
Said stand and deliver, for I am a bold deceiver,

musha ring dumma do damma da
whack for the daddy 'ol
whack for the daddy 'ol
there's whiskey in the jar

I counted out his money, and it made a pretty penny.
I put it in my pocket and I took it home to Jenny.
She said and she swore, that she never would deceive me,
but the devil take the women, for they never can be easy

I went into my chamber, all for to take a slumber,
I dreamt of gold and jewels and for sure it was no wonder.
But Jenny took my charges and she filled them up with water,
Then sent for captain Farrel to be ready for the slaughter.

It was early in the morning, as I rose up for travel,
The guards were all around me and likewise captain Farrel.
I first produced my pistol, for she stole away my rapier,
But I couldn't shoot the water so a prisoner I was taken.

If anyone can aid me, it's my brother in the army,
If I can find his station down in Cork or in Killarney.
And if he'll come and save me, we'll go roving near Kilkenny,
And I swear he'll treat me better than me darling sportling Jenny

Now some men take delight in the drinking and the roving,
But others take delight in the gambling and the smoking.
But I take delight in the juice of the barley,
And courting pretty fair maids in the morning bright and early

Modern lyrics:

As I was goin' over the Cork and Kerry Mountains
I saw Captain Farrell and his money, he was countin'
I first produced my pistol and then produced my rapier
I said, "Stand and deliver or the devil he may take ya"

I took all of his money and it was a pretty penny
I took all of his money, yeah, and I brought it home to Molly
She swore that she loved me, no, never would she leave me
But the devil take that woman, yeah, for you know she tricked me easy

Musha rain dum a doo, dum a da
Whack for my daddy, oh
Whack for my daddy, oh
There's whiskey in the jar, oh

Being drunk and weary I went to Molly's chamber
Takin' Molly with me but I never knew the danger
For about six or maybe seven, yeah, in walked Captain Farrell
I jumped up, fired my pistols and I shot him with both barrels

Yeah, musha rain dum a doo, dum a da, ha, yeah
Whack for my daddy, oh
Whack for my daddy, oh
There's whiskey in the jar, oh

Yeah, whiskey, yo, whiskey
Oh, oh, yeah
Oh, oh, yeah

Now some men like a fishin' but some men like the fowlin'
Some men like to hear, to hear the cannonball roarin'
But me, I like sleepin', 'specially in my Molly's chamber
But here I am in prison, here I am with a ball and chain, yeah

Musha rain dum a doo, dum a da, heh, heh
Whack for my daddy, oh
Whack for my daddy, oh
There's whiskey in the jar, oh, yeah
Whiskey in the jar, oh

Musha rain dum a doo, dum a da
Musha rain dum a doo, dum a da, hey
Musha rain dum a doo, dum a da
Musha rain dum a doo, dum a da, yeah

Pretty spring looks

2010-02-02T16:13:00.000-05:00

I am dying for spring to arrive! I am so ready for the trees to bud and to hear birds singing each morning. I love all seasons and look forward to the onset of each, but I'm already tired of winter and we have at least two more months of it here in Tennessee!

To console myself, I like to look at pretty spring outfits. Ruche is featuring some very beautiful and airy looks for spring. My favorite is the first one--I love a belted cardigan over a ruffled blouse!

Thursday's covet

2010-01-28T09:54:00.000-05:00

Virtual Vintage

The Little Guide to Vintage Shopping

I'm interested in vintage shopping now and would like to learn more about how to spot true vintage pieces and valuable items. Maybe these books would help!

Wednesday's style icon: Jenny

2010-01-27T23:30:00.000-05:00

I recently saw the movie An Education, as I have mentioned a million times already. I just really loved this movie! One of the things I loved most about it was just the style and ambience. It is simply a beautiful film. Without further ado, I give you Jenny, this week's style icon.

What Jenny can teach us:

Look the part you need to play, but maintain your girlish charms.
Never lose your ironic sense of humor.
Don't be intimidated by your lover's age; instead, embrace your own and appreciate his. Just because your man is 35 doesn't mean you need to act 35.
If you're feeling bored with your style, look to the 1950s for inspiration; Anthropologie has an amazing 50s-inspired collection right now. Embrace pretty sheath dresses, t-strap heels, and prim up-do's.
Do your best to live a fabulous life; if your lover wants to show you the world, let him!
Never settle for "less than" just because you don't want to lose the fairy tale; the "good life" is great, but if you discover some unpleasant truths in it, don't disrespect yourself simply to keep living a fantasy.
Sometimes there's nothing more charming than the style and naivete of a schoolgirl.

This week's inspirations

2010-01-26T14:36:00.000-05:00

An Education

Anthropologie's 1950s-inspired collection

Big, fat cappuccino mugs from Pottery Barn

This dream of a bedroom featured on Design Sponge

Using pretty jars for your bath pretties instead of leaving them in boring, plastic containers

Tuesday's tune

2010-01-26T13:00:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorite Pink Floyd songs. I love the melody and the message.

Inspired look: An Education

2010-01-25T22:01:00.000-05:00

I've been so lucky to see three movies in only the past week: Avatar, Sherlock Holmes, and An Education. Last night I saw An Education, and I'm going to save most of my remarks for next week's "Monday's Movie" but I will say that I absolutey loved it! I enjoyed the story and the ambience of the film, but I especially loved all the beautiful scenery--wardrobe, decor, hair, makeup, and atmosphere. It was truly a feast for the eyes at times! It also doesn't hurt that I think Peter Sarsgaard is rather dreamy....

Right now I'm listening to the soundtrack, which is awesome. My new fave song is "Wrapped Around Your Little Finger," sung by the amazing Beth Rowley.

And now for a modern take on the style in the film:

Clearly, I like a little shimmer!

When was the last time you were aesthetically inspired by a movie?

Monday's movie

2010-01-25T08:01:00.003-05:00

This weekend I finally got around to seeing Sherlock Holmes and loved it! I know it got some mixed reviews, but I thought it was great. A long-time Sherlock Holmes fan, I was a little iffy about how I thought Holmes and Watson would be portrayed in this film; however, I think that both Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law did wonderfully with bringing their characters to life. Holmes is not quite what you would expect, those of you who are familiar with the character (my fave Sherlock is Basil Rathbone), but it works. Downey Jr. is a different Sherlock, but he's believable and likeable (though a bit obnoxious at times). I enjoyed Guy Richie's spin on a classic character and how he incorporated humor and action scenes in a movie about two characters that have been traditionally portrayed as stuffy.

Highlights:

Robert Downey Jr's wit and timing is impeccable; I am in awe of him as an actor. He gives us a new vision for Sherlock Holmes, one that is unique and not seen before; but even traditionalists such as myself can accept and enjoy Downey Jr's Sherlock.
REALLY interesting scenes where Holmes would work through his deductions to figure out problems before we'd get to see him carry out his plan; then, other scenes where he would take us back to how he pulled something off in a previous scene. I loved being privy to how he pulled off some of his stunts and figured things out.
Nice costuming; as you've heard before in a previous post, I love the style of Sherlock Holmes. Holmes and Watson had beautiful pieces--oh how I swoon over men's fashions--and Irene Adler's wardrobe added some bold color to scenes that were otherwise gray and brown.
I really loved the music in this film! I especially took note of the piece that played during Holmes' boxing match. It reminded me of Irish music, which then reminded me of Flogging Molly and how I really need to buy some of their music!
Great fight scenes!

Lowlights:

There were a few times when I felt just a tiny bit bored--the case that Holmes was involved in wasn't as riveting as I had hoped. I wasn't on the edge of my seat dying to figure out what was going on.

I guess the main thing that draws me to this film is the characters and not the actual plot. I do like the story, but what makes this movie enjoyable is the two characters, Holmes and Watson, and how beautifully Downey Jr. and Law bring them to life.

My rating: 4/5 stars

Friday's quote

2010-01-22T14:53:00.000-05:00

"A friend is one to whom one may pour out all the contents of one's heart, chaff and grain together, knowing that the gentlest of hands will take and sift it, keep what is worth keeping and with a breath of kindness blow the rest away."

Arabian Proverb

Image thanks to WeHeartIt

Speaking of classic pieces . . .

2010-01-20T10:19:00.000-05:00

Savvy Mode, a delightful blog that keeps readers updated on various trends and styling tips, is currently hosting a giveaway! The prize--an absolutely stunning, 18 inch strand of white freshwater pearls courtesy of Louis Anthony Jewelers. You can enter until Jan 28, so be sure to check it out!

Wednesday's style icon: Ivanka Trump

2010-01-20T08:10:00.001-05:00

Do you ever see someone on TV or in a magazine and something about them makes you gaze for as long as possible? You study their hair, their face, their outfit and jewelry. There is just something about this person that you really, REALLY want to emulate. Well for me, one of those people (and I have many), is Ivanka Trump. I admire so much about her--from her gorgeously applied makeup to her extensive jewelry collection to her smarts and tenacity in the business world.

Some lessons from Ms. Trump (actually, Mrs. Kushner, as she recently got married):

"A lady must be two things: classy and fabulous." Coco Chanel gave us this gem of wisdom, but Ivanka is the walking embodiment of its sentiments. She is classy to a fault--you'll see no mention of her flashing people at a club or getting in cat fights. Such behavior is beneath her, and frankly, it's beneath all of us! She is also fabulous in her dress and appearance because she exudes confidence and glamour at all times.
Maintain, maintain, maintain. This one comes up frequently in my style icon posts, but I can't say it enough. If there's one thing the icon-worthy have in common, it's that they take good care of themselves. They keep their bodies in tip-top form by exercising and eating well, and they take care of their hair, skin, and nails. You'll never see Ivanka in public without lovely nails, hair, and makeup.
Enhance your best assets. Play up the areas of your face and body that you like best. For Ivanka, it's her long legs and full bustline.
Dress with the idea that you never know who you'll run into. It may be your catty ex-best friend, your dream boss, or the casting director for the next box office smash. You never know who you'll need to impress, so always try to look your best. Ivanka's style is both feminine and appropriate for the environment she's in--pencil skirts and crisp blouses for the office, and figure-flaunting evening wear for special occasions.
The icing is the best part of the cake. Cultivate an expansive jewelry collection and adorn yourself daily with your favorite pieces. You don't necessarily need 16 gold rings and three pairs of diamond studs, but do invest in some timeless classics such as a set of white pearls, a pair each of gold and silver hoops, and a decent watch in a classic style. You can supplement your collection with trendier items that you find on sale since you'll likely find that your style will evolve past them within a year or two. Classic pieces will get you through almost any occasion and will last throughout your life if you treat them properly. The strand of pearls you wear to the office looks amazing with your LBD at the symphony and is adorably unexpected with a fitted tee and nice jeans. Also, you don't have to worry about where you buy your jewels--some of my prettiest and nicest-looking pieces have actually come from the jewelry case at places like TJ Maxx. I've bought sterling silver pieces, various strands of pearls, and some lovely earrings there, all pieces that I love and wear often, and that you can find for less than $50-100 if you shop wisely. Of course, we'd all love to purchase our new baubles complete with a Tiffany box, but the fact is, few people are going to notice that you bought those silver hoops from a swanky jeweler.
In addition to jewelry, invest in timeless accessories. Sure, it's not a true "investment" in that it probably won't increase in value over time, but the glory most often lies in the details, and carrying a nice bag will certainly increase the chicness of your overall look for years to come. You can buy it on clearance at a department store, or you can save up for a year and buy it from a boutique, but no one's really going to know whether you paid full price. Buy nicer things, but fewer of them, and take care of them as best you can. They'll carry you a lot further than cheaper items, and you'll get more satisfaction out of them. My advice: when you do begin investing in more expensive items, buy them in classic colors and materials before splurging on the trendy stuff. In fact, I advocate never to spend high dollar on trendy items, because you will most certainly get sick of them within a year or so. Black, brown, and other neutrals are a good place to start, and it's my opinion that every woman should have a nice red bag. I can only hope that Ivanka would agree.
Gain respect by being good at what you do. When you figure out your dream, work hard for it. Don't rest on your laurels. Maybe you didn't need to prove yourself to land the job at your daddy's firm, but you most certainly need to prove that you do deserve the job. Take a cue from Ivanka and take your work seriously, and make a reputation for yourself as being dependable, respectable, and ambitious.
Be yourself, but be the best version of yourself. There's no question that Ivanka exudes an idealistic beauty, with her long blonde hair, long legs, and amazing bone structure, but when I look to her for inspiration, I don't berate myself for having short dark hair and being bigger than a size six. I look to her, and others that I find icon-worthy, to glean ideas for how to enhance my own beauty and style. It's never about becoming someone else, but about taking cues from those we admire to grow more fully into our own unique styles and ways of being. And my darlings, that is fabulous!

Monday's movie

2010-01-18T21:24:00.000-05:00

I finally saw Avatar this weekend, and I'm so glad I did. At first, I wasn't very interested in seeing this movie. I usually love fantasy and action films, but this movie had just not called to me in the previews I saw throughout the fall. Well, I am so glad that I finally saw it, because I think it is amazing! I loved the beautiful world of Pandora, a world where all of nature is connected by a life force--from a small flower seed to a large tree sloth.

I also think that Sam Worthington, the actor who plays Jake, is pretty easy on the eyes!

Best kept secret

2010-01-15T13:00:00.004-05:00

Thanks to one of my fave bloggers, Jen, I've recently discovered HauteLook, a site that has tons of designer goods for non-designer prices! HauteLook has sales that last for only a short time, and during that time shoppers have access to designer duds at vast reductions in price.

You have to be a member of HauteLook in order to take advantage of their amazing deals, but it's not that hard to be invited when you know gals like me! I've got your personal invitation to HauteLook right here.

Happy "haute"ing!

Friday's quote

2010-01-15T09:54:00.000-05:00

"I can only note that the past is beautiful because one never realises an emotion at the time. It expands later, and thus we don't have complete emotions about the present, only about the past."

Virginia Woolf, 1882-1941

Thursday's covet

2010-01-14T14:15:00.000-05:00

While I appreciate all seasons when they arrive, the recent extreme cold has got me fantasizing about spring/summer and the fashions that accompany them!

If I wore bikinis, I'd want this one

What a pretty, comfy dress!

This blouse is the perfect color for spring

Be still, my heart

A floral dress for spring is a must

Wednesday's style icon: The professor

2010-01-13T08:30:00.004-05:00

Recently, while doing the weekly mail run on campus (I work for a university), a well-dressed vision caught my eye. As I drove, I saw a professor dressed in a camel trench coat, a tan, wide-brimmed hat, and brown leather oxfords. I was struck by how much he looked like the traditional professor prototype and very unlike the wrinkled-jeans-and-sweatshirt-wearing professor we often see in the university classroom today. I really appreciated his effort, and it got me thinking about how much I love the traditional garb of academics--tweed blazers, bow ties, sweater vests, oxfords and loafers, trilbies and fedoras. Ah--if only to be transported back to an era when academics took such care in their dressing!

Tips for emulating the classic style of traditional academics:

Tweed, tweed, tweed--'nuff said!
Make window pane check, herringbone, and plaid your prints of choice
Step out in style in penny loafers or polished oxfords
Accessorize smartly--vests, scarves, hankies (tucked handsomely in your blazer), brief cases, long ties, and bow ties lend valuable polish to an outfit
Being smart is sexy! Dig deep into subjects that interest you, and hone your unique talents.
Pull out your trench coat upon the first sign of rain

An homage to my favorite professors:

Dr. Henry "Indiana" Jones, Jr.

-brought "sexy back" to the university teaching profession even while wearing a bow tie-

Professor Hundert from The Emperors Club

-reminded us that it's never too late to set things right (and did it while rocking that killer sweater vest)-

Mr. Alan Keating from Dead Poets Society

-inspired young men to take heart and pursue their greatest dreams (mmm, nubby tweed blazer)-

Professor Severus Snape from Harry Potter

-dapper in black robes with a stand-up collar and flared cuffs, he strikes fear in the hearts of young wizards and witches the world round-

Dr. Frank Bryant from Educating Rita

-learned as much from his student as she learned from him (and told us he'd be damned if he got another shave and haircut)-

Professor Henry Barnes from Apartment for Peggy

-reminded us of the importance of purpose and human connection-

Crepes anyone?

2010-01-12T22:23:00.002-05:00

This Saturday, I'm taking one of my dearest friends out to lunch for her birthday. We're going to a new restaurant downtown, The French Market, where they specialize in crepes. I can't wait to try it! While tinkering around on Looklet the other day, I decided to create an outfit that I would love to wear to our lunch. What do you think? Crepe worthy?

Tuesday's tune

2010-01-12T13:30:00.000-05:00

I first discovered Muse when I saw Twilight and really liked the song in the baseball scene. Ever since, I've been a huge fan!

Drumroll, please . . . .

2010-01-11T22:15:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Jocelyn, the winner of the very first Sweet, Mysterious giveaway!! Your glasses will be coming straight from CSNstores, so expect them to take a few weeks to arrive.

Thank you all so much for participating in my first giveaway. It has been so much fun to see how enthusiastic everyone has been. I am thrilled to have gained so many new followers, too!! I look forward to visiting everyone's blogs and seeing what you're all about.

Stay tuned for future giveaways on Sweet, Mysterious Feast. This was so much fun and received such great response that I am going to attempt to do a giveaway every month or two. Thanks everyone!

Image thanks to WeHeartIt.

Monday's movie

2010-01-11T08:30:00.000-05:00

This weekend I saw It's Complicated, starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, and Steve Martin. I thought it was very funny and witty! I saw it with my mom, sister, and grandmother, and there were a few parts that I felt were a little too risque for my grandma! Just a warning in case you plan to take any prudish relatives!

I liked this movie because I love Meryl Streep and think she does an amazing job in anything. There was a lot of hilarious dialogue and Meryl actually rocked some pretty cute outfits. I especially loved her jewelry in the film, particularly a large blue pendant (resembling a natural stone) that she wore on a long gold chain. I would love to find something similar! Any clues as to where I should look? She's wearing it in the following photo, but you can't see it too well.

Friday's quote

2010-01-08T12:12:00.000-05:00

"This is what I learned: that everybody is talented, original and has something important to say."

Brenda Ueland, 1891-1985

Whimsy and delight

2010-01-07T12:32:00.000-05:00

I love exploring Etsy, even when I'm not looking to buy anything. I find it really inspiring to see such a huge community of artists in one place, promoting their orginal creations.

Today I came across some beautiful work by Jenny Mendes, featured in her Etsy shop. More work is available on her website, http://www.jennymendes.com/.

"She Didn't Know Where He Ended and She Began"

"Little Dear"

"Nose to Nose"

"Flower Girl"

Don't forget to check out my first giveaway! The winner will be chosen next Monday evening!

Giveaway!!!

2010-01-07T08:30:00.003-05:00

Are you excited, my friends?

I have the honor of hosting my very first giveaway, courtesy of CSNstores!

After a very tough decision-making process in which I was able to peruse several of CSNstores' 200+ sites in order to choose a gift, I decided on www.cookware.com.

Are you ready to find out what you may win?

The lucky winner of Sweet, Mysterious Feast's very first giveaway will receive a set of 2 six-ounce white wine glasses by iittala Tapio (valued at over $44)!! These lovely glasses are made from windblown, non-leaded crystal and would be perfect receptacles for a smooth Chardonnay or a crisp Riesling (or a fizzy ginger ale, if you prefer).

Wouldn't you just love to find these beauties in your mailbox in a couple of weeks?

Here's how to be entered in the drawing:

New visitors:

To receive one entry, simply follow my blog and leave a comment on this post letting me know you're a new follower!
To receive an additional entry, write a post about this giveaway on your own blog (be sure to let me know).

Current followers:

To receive one entry, just leave me a comment on this post!
To receive an additional entry, write a post about this giveaway on your own blog (be sure to let me know).

I need to receive all entries by 5:00 PM EST on Monday, January 11. The winner will be chosen at random that evening and notified by the next day.

I almost wish I could keep these glasses for myself, but I'd rather pass their beauty on to one of you!

Please note that this giveaway is open only to residents of the United States and Canada.

Update: the winner of this giveaway is Jocelyn! Congratulations!

Wednesday's style icon

2010-01-06T14:12:00.000-05:00

The Sopranos' Adriana La Cerva, ill-fated girlfriend to Christopher Moltisante and unwilling traitor to the Soprano crime family.

The importance of impeccable grooming: keep those brows waxed and those 'lights maintained!
Put your face on: take care with your makeup to emphasize your prettiest features--Adriana emphasizes her dark eyes and fantastic, feline bone structure in order to look her best every day.
When in doubt, layer on the ice: whoever said to take off one piece before leaving the house was dead-wrong in Adriana's opinion. If you haven't adorned yourself with at least (the VERY least) a pair of earrings, a necklace, and a watch or bracelet, you're not fit to leave the house.
Flaunt it if you got it! Adriana's not afraid to call attention to her fab frame--she takes care to pick ensembles that emphasize her long legs, toned arms, and teeny waist.
Tacky schmacky! Sure, Aid's style can be a little flashy, and some say a little "cheap," but if there's one thing the girl can teach us, it's this: whatever your style, OWN it!
Be sure your man knows your shoe size: hardly anything is as disappointing as your boyfriend gifting you with a garbage bag of Jimmy Choo's . . . two sizes too big.

Wardrobe lust

2010-01-06T13:47:00.001-05:00

I wouldn't mind if these gorgeous items suddenly appeared in my closet:

Baroomby Heels

Georgetown Heels

A Storm is Blue-ing Trench

Wise and Watchful Eyes Necklace

Underlined Heels

Sterling Dress

Nadia Underpinnings

Waltzing Daphne Blouse

Fargyle Skirt

I guess I'm all over the place today in terms of my wardrobe lust.

Friday's quote

2010-01-01T23:35:00.000-05:00

"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man."

Benjamin Franklin, 1706-1790

Introspection

2009-12-31T17:44:00.000-05:00

I don't have any special plans for New Year's Eve this year--I don't usually have plans because it has never been a big holiday for my family.

I've been putting off writing down my "resolutions" for 2010. I have never been great with keeping resolutions, mainly because it stresses me to think about keeping promises to myself. Ironically, the stress leads me to throw them out the window pretty early each year.

I'd like 2010 to be different, but I'm cutting myself some slack. I have been through a few big events and changes in the past couple of years, and I'd like 2010 to simply be a year of balance and commitment. My "resolutions" will be hopeful commitments to cultivating habits and engaging in activities that make my life joyful, healthy, and happy.

Balance . . . mainly in my health sphere, where I have neglected myself for too long a time.

Commitment . . . to myself, my mind, my heart, and my health. In order to commit to myself and be happy, I must learn to let go of the anxiety that plagues me 24/7. I am constantly nervous, stressed, high-strung, or feeling guilty. I am so high-strung, my good moods tend toward mania. I don't know why I'm like this, but it causes me to not do the things that I need to do for myself. I'm pretty good about honoring commitments and being helpful to other people. The thing is, other people aren't responsible for my happiness or success. Only I can determine how to achieve what I want, so if I don't make more of a commitment to ME, I won't have the life I want. It's no one else's prerogative to make ME happy, so I must do it for myself. It may sound selfish, but it's true for all of us. It has taken me a while to come to this conclusion.

What's your theme for 2010?

Image of my desk (no curtains yet, boohoo).

Thursday's covet

2009-12-31T10:06:00.000-05:00

I've changed "Thursday's coveted item" to simply, "Thursday's covet," because lately I haven't been too desirous of material goods as much as I've been coveting the intangibles.

I'm dying for a vacation! I haven't been on vacation for almost two years, which I realize isn't really that bad, but I'm still going crazy wanting to go somewhere lovely, sunny, warm, and gorgeous.

In early 2008, my mom, sis, and I went to Maui, and it was the best! It is unbelievably beautiful, and it gives you a sense of calm and relaxation just to be there. What I love best is that you have the beach and ocean, of course, but you also have gorgeous mountains. We went on a sunset horseback ride up a small mountain, and we also went to two beautiful botanical gardens that were amazing because it was almost like I forgot where we were. It seemed like a secret little tucked-away paradise. In Kihei, there was a yummy little breakfast place where we had bagels and chai, and there was also an open-air market there where you could buy strands and strands of ridiculously inexpensive freshwater pearls. By far, Maui was the most exciting, exotic, and memorable place I have ever been.

First image thanks to WeHeartIt.
All other images, mine.

2009: A year in review

2009-12-30T23:42:00.002-05:00

To follow the leads of bloggers such as Yes and Yes and The Glamourous Grad Student, a synopsis of the major events that took place in my life in 2009:

I finished my master's degree: I worked on a Master of Science degree in educational psychology from January 2008 to December 2009. For over 75% of my program, I attended classes full time while working full time. It was exhausting and difficult, but I am proud of myself for finishing it. It has been nearly three weeks since graduation, and I still can't believe that I completed my degree. Only time will tell whether I will use my degree in a vocation, especially since I've developed new ideas about what I want to do for a "living." However, if nothing else, I learned a lot more about myself while going through the program, and I made a new friend who has become a much beloved fixture in my life!
I moved back home: Like many others, the economy forced me to reconsider whether I was able to afford living in my condo, and the verdict wasn't very exciting. I've spent the month of December packing and moving, and it has been exhausting and a little sad. However, living at home will (eventually) give me some financial breathing room--and I really need it!
I lost a few pounds: I am over 20 pounds lighter now than I was at the beginning of 2009, which is a great blessing. I'm just going to be honest, because I think there are a lot of people who will understand--I have an unhealthy relationship with food and a serious aversion to physical activity (but I can totally motivate to move from couch to fridge anytime!). In 2008, I was diagnosed with insulin resistance, which is a condition where your cells don't respond to insulin and the excess is converted to fat. According to my doc, this puts me in danger of developing type II diabetes, so she put me on a low dose of diabetes medication to help prevent the disease from setting in. The medication has helped in terms of blood test results, but my ultimate goal is to get off of it for good. Unfortunately, in the past four months I have fallen back into my old, familiar behaviors of consuming way too much "bad" food. My commitment to my goal of transforming my health fell on the back-burner while I finished grad school, moved, and enjoyed the holidays.
I began this blog: Sweet, Mysterious Feast has a long way to go, but starting it is one of the best decisions I made this year. I feel more intune with my true self--what matters most to me and what really speaks to my soul. Writing a blog forces me to be more introspective and more aware of the things that go on in the world. It has also introduced me to some absolutely amazing blogs. Prior to starting SMF, I only ever read my sister's blog, Oolala!. For some reason earlier this year, and I can't articulate why, I got the urge to begin my own blog, and I am so glad I followed through with it. Through blogging, I have learned a lot more about myself.
I started a book: In the summer, I began planning and writing a work of non-fiction that I will pick up again in 2010 and hopefully get close to finishing in the next year or so.

It really doesn't seem like I have accomplished a lot this year, but I have gone through a lot of big changes in the past 3 years. I am planning a lot of introspection in 2010 and a commitment to balance and physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness.

Here's lookin' at you, 2010!

Image thanks to WeHeartIt.

Tuesday's tune

2009-12-29T09:48:00.002-05:00

Wolfsheim, "Kein Zuruck"

Monday's movie (a day late)

2009-12-29T09:16:00.001-05:00

This weekend I finally watched Julie and Julia, and it was sooo good! I absolutely loved it! Meryl Streep was amazing and hilarious as Julia Child (did you doubt it?) and Amy Adams was adorable and endearing (as usual) playing Julie Powell. It took me forever to finally see this movie, but I'm so glad I did. It has inspired me to get back into cooking and making real meals more often. I have fallen into a sad habit of relying on takeout or convenience foods too frequently. Not only has my waistline suffered, but my energy and sense of well-being have, too.

One of the recipes featured in the film is "Poulet au Porto," which is roast chicken with port, cream, and mushrooms. I've had it on my mind since I saw the movie, and I hope to try the recipe really soon. In fact, I might even buy Child's book, Mastering the Art of French Cooking. I doubt I could pull off many of the recipes, but I'm sure there are some I could manage. Besides, I can always modify the ones that are too difficult.

Short and sporadic hiatus

2009-12-27T23:50:00.000-05:00

Agh! This week I am off from work, but I have to work really hard on getting my condo ready to rent. I've got all the furniture to move as well as heavy kitchen items like dishes. After that I've got to clean and go through the condo taking care of minor details like touching up paint. Busy busy busy! I cannot wait for the condo project to be completely done so I can settle into my routine. I've moved back home with my mom and sis (blame it on the economy, folks!), but that's alright for now. It enables me to have more financial freedom, which is wonderful!

I was looking forward to doing some fun posts this week but fear that my posting will be sporadic and minimal until I can get the bulk of this work done.

What's everyone else doing this week? Anyone else off from work?

Image thanks to WeHeartIt.

2010 Reading List

2009-12-27T00:38:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to be finished with grad school for a while, because now I can get back to one of my favorite activities--reading! Here are some of the books I'd like to read in 2010:

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

American Gods

Pride and Prejudice

(I'm a little embarrassed to admit that I have never read this one!)

Her Fearful Symmetry

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

Temple of the Grail

Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell

Don Quixote

Of course, this list will grow and alter as the year progresses, but I am most interested in these selections right now.

What are you looking forward to reading in 2010?

Fantasy look for Christmas Eve brunch

2009-12-23T11:51:00.001-05:00

I've recently discovered Looklet, thanks to the charming Luinae of More Magic Always. I'm going to a brunch at my aunt's house tomorrow, and while I'll more than likely wear jeans and a long sleeved tee, I've created a ladylike look for a scrumptious winter brunch. I just love pale pink and black together!

Christmas Eve Eve

2009-12-23T10:51:00.005-05:00

Well, it's nearly upon us--today is the day before Christmas Eve. Has everyone gotten her shopping done? I ran out last night to buy one final gift for a loved one, but I am officially done with Christmas shopping. I usually start it rather early and have it finished long before Christmas, but this year the season snuck up on me so I was a tiny bit rushed.

Christmas is my favorite holiday because I feel that it is a time when people (generally) have goodwill toward others. I think it is a time when our best selves tend to peek through. The only thing that makes me a little sad at Christmas is the tendency to over-emphasize "stuff" and materialism. I certainly cave in to it each year--I love to buy nice gifts for my mom and sister when I can, and I do enjoy receiving gifts. But I do think that there is a balance; I think that we can enjoy the material gifts we give and receive at this time of year while honoring the deeper meaning and significance of the season. Even though I do believe this, it's still easy to get caught up in overindulgence in food, drink, and materialism.

My family celebrates the Christmas season from Dec 24-January 6 (Epiphany). Of course, we don't open a bevy of gifts each morning, but for us, Christmas is more than just December 25. This year, I am making a commitment to take at least 30 minutes each day of Christmas to read and meditate on the spiritual significance of the season.

Luckily, since I work for a university, I am off from Dec 24-January 3. During my time off, I plan to do the following (other than pack, move, paint, and clean--UGH):

1. give my mom and sister facial treatments (I'll do my best since I'm not a pro aesthetician)

2. watch my DVD of Wagner's Tannhauser one day while my mom and sis are at work

3. read; I've been "reading" The Historian for the second time, but it's taking me forever because of all the stuff I've had to do

4. relax!

What special plans do you have?

Image thanks to WeHeartIt.

New fave skin care product

2009-12-22T16:39:00.005-05:00

I'm a big fan of skin care products, spa treatments, and the like, but over the past year or so, I have not taken the time to care for my skin the way I should. Since finishing my master's degree a couple of weeks ago, I'm again fantasizing about spa treatments, at-home facials, and experimenting with new products to find what works best for me.

After stumbling upon skinstore.com a couple of weeks ago, I began foaming at the mouth over the Bliss Steep Clean face mask. My dear friend Anna had told me about the mask and how she loved it, and I was intrigued. The idea of a "15-minute facial" that cleans and minimizes my pores and provides gentle exfoliation was just too good to be true! I wanted it so badly! I told no one about my covet, so imagine my surprise when last Friday, I arrived home to find a package from Anna, with the Bliss Steep Clean mask inside!!! How did she know that I had only recently become obsessed with the product? I am a lucky gal to have such wonderful friends!

Sunday, I tried my mask for the first time. Two formulas--one yellow and one blue--come out of separate compartments. You blend the two together to make a green mask. I applied it all over my face, but paid careful attention to my nose (the comedone capital of North America). I then sat back and watched 15 minutes of The Sopranos and visualized gentle enzymatic exfoliants disintegrating all the dead cells on my face; I visualized microscopic blackhead combatants excavating my cavernous pores on a deadly seek and find mission. It was quite thrilling. After my 15 minutes were up (I like to follow products as directed the first couple of times I try them), I used a hot wash cloth to remove the mask. Aha--pink, glowing skin! Of course, it is too soon to tell whether the mask really does work pore-shrinking and blackhead-destroying miracles, but my skin felt wonderful afterward, and I felt very pampered and rejuvenated. My plan is to apply the mask once per week until I'm able to see results, and then eventually back off to biweekly/monthly. I'll let you know the final verdict on the Bliss Steep Clean face mask in a few months!

(Friends: if you do not want to wait for my final verdict, skinstore.com has the mask on sale for $43.20--this is a STEAL compared to the regular $54 pricetag! Pricey, yes, but if you've got Christmas money coming your way, this might be a contender!)

Tuesday's tune

2009-12-22T16:16:00.000-05:00

"O Holy Night" performed by Celtic Woman. My favorite Christmas song!

Winter Solstice

2009-12-22T10:42:00.005-05:00

This year's winter solstice began at sundown yesterday (Dec 21). It marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. It's sometimes referred to inaccurately as mid-winter, but it actually marks the first official day of the winter season for those of us in the northern hemisphere. With all the cold and snow we've had for the past few weeks, it sure doesn't feel like the first day of winter to me!

Every year, many people gather at Stonehenge to celebrate winter solstice. Some cultures view the winter solstice as a time of new beginnings and rebirth. Celebrations focus on emotional comforts--something to look forward to in the coldest and darkest season of the year. Bonfires, evergreen trees, and dancing are staples at winter solstice celebrations.

Some individual activities to commemorate winter solstice might include:

1. making a list of the things you would like to change in your life

2. cleaning your home to let your living quarters mirror the newness you feel inside

3. organizing papers, collections, and other belongings

4. reevaluating relationships and making plans to improve or sustain them, or to let some fade away if they're not right for you

5. changing your surroundings--put a new cover on the bed, buy some fresh flowers, change out your old throw pillows--whatever seems nice and will rejuvenate your home

Happy winter solstice, dear friends!

Images thanks to WeHeartIt.

Thursday's coveted item

2009-12-17T08:01:00.000-05:00

Today's covet isn't really an item, but a way of life.

500 pounds and "a room of my own."

Virginia Woolf declared in 1929, that a woman must have her own money (to the effect of 500 pounds per year) and a room of her own with a lock--she must have these two important things in order to write fiction. I am reinterpreting this to include any kind of artistic endeavor.

I have done the calculations. I've converted 500 British pounds to American dollars, and then calculated for inflation between 1929 and 2009. Apparently I need over $10,000 of disposable income per year (in addition to my locked room) in order to devote myself to my creative impulses.

Here's hoping for a lucrative 2010 (or to finding a generous benefactor)!

Images thanks to WeHeartIt.

Pretty Dresses

2009-12-16T13:13:00.000-05:00

Today, I'm coveting these pretty frocks from Modcloth:

Sally Jane Dress in Red, $89.99

Fresh Grounds Dress, $49.99 (my favorite!!)

Marion Dress in Fatale, $54.99 (my other fave!!!)

Moonstone Dress, $93.99

Giving

2009-12-15T23:22:00.004-05:00

The holidays are a time when many people volunteer and donate to charitable organizations. There is something about the spirit of the season that makes us want to do more for others, our communities, and the world.

Unfortunately, the United States is in one of the worst economic crises in a very long time, and many people feel like they can't contribute monetarily. With paying bills, dealing with unplanned issues like car trouble, buying Christmas gifts for loved ones, and purchasing groceries for special holiday meals, it seems that there's not a dollar left over to spare.

There are many ways we can each contribute something of value to the world, whether we donate money, time, or ideas:

Instead of buying the same old Christmas gifts as usual--you know, bath gels, earrings, video games, books, scarves, etc--make a donation to the recipient's favorite charity, or to your own if you don't know a particular cause he or she likes. My sister made a donation in my name to Heifer International, an organization that helps people become self-sufficient by donating gifts of livestock. If you like this idea but don't want your recipient to have nothing to open on Christmas, perhaps split your budget by spending half on a gift and half on a charitable donation.
If you're really good at something, teach it! If you're great at knitting, why not offer to give lessons to a group at a nursing home? Do you know a lot about creative writing? Call your local senior center and see if you could do a workshop. One of the best gifts we can offer is the joy of learning a new hobby.
On that note, if you have a talent, why not use it to make your own gifts? If you're a photography pro, offer to do a photo shoot for a friend's family. If you're a master at tiling, consider working some magic on your grandmother's bathroom. If you're a decent artist, recreate a beloved photo with pencil and nice paper. If you can do something well, hone that gift into something that people can cherish for a long time.
Have you ever donated or volunteered? If not, give thought to what you really believe in. Are you a serious animal-lover? You could volunteer some time at the local shelter or give money to the ASPCA. Are you passionate about human rights? Contact Amnesty International and see if there are some things you can do from home, such as letter-writing. Are you an artistic soul? Volunteer at your local art museum or symphony orchestra. There are hundreds of possibilities--all you have to do is figure out what matters most to you, and then donate time (or money) to that cause.
Are there any elderly or immobile people in your neighborhood? Offer to rake their leaves or do other yard-work. Take a home-cooked meal to them one evening.
Overwhelmed with too much going on? Sometimes people simply yearn for human connection. Is there someone at church whom you know to be alone during the holidays? Send a nice card with heartfelt wishes. Sometimes all it takes is knowing someone has thought of you. Better yet, invite them to share in your holiday meal.
Spend time with someone. Often, more than anything else, people crave connection, a kind word, and simple conversation. Help make someone feel special and interesting by just being with them.

Obviously, there is much more we can do to give to our families and communities, but I think these ideas provide a good starting point. These are ideas we can implement now, during the holidays, but we can also remember them throughout the year. I bring them up now with regard to the holidays because this is a time of year when people feel especially alone and sad if they don't have their physical, social, and emotional needs met. I think what we all crave is true connection.

What do you do to give back? Do you have any special holiday giving that you do yearly?

Image thanks to WeHeartIt

Shhh, Christmas secrets!

2009-12-15T16:57:00.000-05:00

I am done with my Christmas shopping! Unfortunately I can't divulge what I've purchased since my mom and sister are regular SMF readers, but I will say that I think (hope) they will be VERY pleased! I would be!

What about all of you? Got that shopping done yet?

Image thanks to WeHeartIt

(mmm, Starbucks!)

Tuesday's tune

2009-12-15T08:01:00.000-05:00

Toto's song, "Africa," performed by Perpetuum Jazzile--absolutely amazing!

Monday's movie

2009-12-14T08:01:00.000-05:00

No movie today, because I haven't seen any note-worthy movies lately. However, the season finale of Dexter was on last night, and let me tell you, it was crazy! For you Dexter fans who haven't seen this episode yet . . . . watch it NOW. Unbelievable, nervewracking, and perplexing.

Time

2009-12-13T23:33:00.003-05:00

Friday, I went through the hooding ceremony for completion of my master's degree. I entered the program in January 2008, and my time in it ended only a few days ago. I cannot believe I have finished! It still seems unreal.

Now that I have finished my grad school tenure for now, I am blessed with extra free time! I work full-time, and I had been attending evening classes and not getting home until 8:30 or 9 in the evenings. Some semesters I even had weekend classes that would meet 4 hours on Friday nights and then another 6-8 hours on Saturdays. It was so tiring, but very worth it--even though I still don't know what I will "do with" my new degree, my experience in the program has evolved my interests and has made me think differently about what I may do for a career. Perhaps not oddly, I am more in tune with emerging ideas for how I want to live and use my time. I am glad to have gone through with the degree, and now I'm even more glad it's finished. I have time for me again!

In the few days I have been free, I have noticed an odd feeling of not knowing what to do with myself. It seems strange to come home and not have a paper to write or read 84 pages of journal articles. Although I am moving from my condo throughout the month of December, and that is taking a lot of time, I realize that I soon will have the opportunity to pursue the projects that have idled during the past two years. There are quite a few.

Blogging has also kindled a lot of new interests and ideas. I read as many wonderful blogs daily as I can, and nearly all of them inspire me in different ways. Some remind me to work on my personal style, especially since I've been slacking on it for quite a while; others spark my interest in new music or books; other blogs inspire me to change my outlook and to break out of my mental slump. Perhaps most importantly, and more in line with my goals for my life, many of the blogs I read have inspired me to create more beauty out of each day so that my life contains more of the beauty that I admire so much in others' lives. Truly, one of the best decisions I made in 2009 was to begin this blog. Although I don't have dozens of followers, I am thankful for my 8 and for all of the amazing people who stop by and leave comments occasionally. Thank you!

I have been thinking of 2010 as a new slate--freshly minted graduate degree, new home environment, and time for myself that I haven't had in two years. I am so excited to begin this fresh new year that I can hardly wait for it! I have been thinking a lot about what I want to focus on in 2010--not resolutions really, but more like gentle commitments to attaining a happier self. I plan to share my 2010 hopes in a post after New Year's.

I'm ready to balance my life--to focus on rejuvenating my health and body, to recommit to the personal projects and aspirations I have laid aside, to fortify my finances, and to put myself out in the world more often to enjoy new experiences. What about you? Do others think of each new year with a "theme" in mind? Mine is balance--what is yours?

Images thanks to WeHeartIt.

A good read

2009-12-11T11:32:00.002-05:00

Oh my goodness, friends, I found the most amazing article today on Miseducated! It's written by staff writer, Megan, and it's called "How to Design Your Own Career, Part 1."

The premise of this article is that a person can be creative and have a wealth of interests yet still not know how to best channel her creative impulses toward a career. This same person knows she is not meant for the everyday, 8-5 humdrum, but doesn't know what she is meant for. Since when did my personal thoughts become public? I felt the same way when I discovered this amazing tea towel.

I have long known that working in a typical office setting til I'm retirement age will either put me in an early grave or in a psychiatric ward. Maybe that's a little dramatic, but I feel it's pretty accurate. Everyone has unique characteristics, talents, interests, and quirks that make them individuals. Some people thrive in a business-setting and without those people, what would get done? But others, like me, feel stifled, bored, and sad working in a business-setting. It's not only the type of work we do--though that's the biggest component--its the actual environment. It's the structure of 8-5, Monday-Friday. It's the anxiety of being under someone's watchful eye 40 hours per week. It's the absurdity of being in a meeting where people argue for an hour over what to include on a flyer. It's the unnatural feeling of seeking permission to take a personal day. I truly feel that my personal needs, talents, and interests are best suited to working from my own home.

Megan's article is a wonderful read for people who feel they have something creative to contribute, but don't know exactly what it is. She suggests an interesting exercise that I'm looking forward to trying out this winter break!

Friday's quote

2009-12-11T10:16:00.000-05:00

"If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome."

Anne Bradstreet, 1612-1672

Auntie Jo's Holiday Shopping Guide: Sisters

2009-12-09T10:14:00.001-05:00

This is my favorite shopping guide because I love my sister!

The Gospel According to Coco Chanel: for the elegant sister. $13.57.

Wishing Well Necklace from jennytrinh on Etsy: for the bauble-loving sis. $24.

Fashion Wool Cloche from F21: for the adorable sis who looks fetching in headwear. $11.80.

Chartpak Ad Marker Set (Basic, set of 25): for the artsy sis. $55.99.

Sephora Brand Deluxe Fragrance Sampler for Her: for the prissy sissy. Includes fragrances from Aqualina, Stella McCartney, Michael Kors, Harajuku Lovers, and many more. $50.

The New Yorker magazine subscription: for the witty sister who loves to be in-the-know. $39.95 for one year.

Harry Potter Years 1-6, 6-Disc DVD Set: for the sister who wishes she was going to Hogwart's. $51.99.

An class from Online Humanties, part of Educate Yourself for Tomorrow: for the sis who loves to learn. This website offers a variety of classes in all kinds of subjects such as: "Hesse and Jung: Gnosticism in Modern Form," "Mozart and the Revolution of Western Music," "Shakespeare, Drama, and Self-Knowledge," and many others. Classes start around $175.

Yogitoes Skidless Towel: for the yogi sister. This towel goes over your mat for absorption and improved grip and steadiness. $50.

It's official

2009-12-08T22:31:00.001-05:00

I have finished my master's degree. The hooding ceremony is this Friday.

Hopefully, it will be a long time before I do this again . . . .

Auntie Jo's Holiday Shopping Guide: Dads

2009-12-08T14:01:00.000-05:00

Picking up where I left off with shopping suggestions for moms, here are some for dads:

Star Trek in Blu-Ray: for the Trekkie Dad. $19.99.

J. Crew Buffalo Tartan Tie: for the dapper dad. $69.50.

Men's Health 1-Year Subscription: for the iron-pumping dad. $24.94.

(Gift idea note: a magazine subscription is a great gift for nearly anyone--it's the gift that keeps on giving, and purchasing a subscription typically saves a few dollars per issue over the course of a year! Amazon.com is running subscription specials periodically throughout the holidays, and you can find many great magazines for as cheap as $5/year.)

Williams Sonoma Monogrammed Pilsner Glasses (set of 4): for the brewsky-loving dad. $59.00 for triple initial monogramming.

John Irving's latest novel, Last Night in Twisted River: for the bookworm dad. $13.47.

L.L. Bean's Shetland Wool Shawl Collar Sweater: for the elbow patch-loving dad. $54.50.

This masculine moss cologne: for the dad who loves to preen. $68.00

Tuesday's tune

2009-12-08T08:01:00.001-05:00

Vintage George Harrison (solo). I love this song because it reminds me of childhood.

Winter happies

2009-12-07T22:13:00.001-05:00

I've finished my research paper! Hoorah! Now I have only a 3-page position paper due tomorrow, and it is such a relief to only have this one, smaller assignment left before I officially have my master's degree!

Now that school is nearly done, I'm thinking ahead to the future. I know it's best to live in the present, but my present is filled with moving boxes and a bedroom that needs another coat of paint before it's move-in ready. So I'm thinking about the future, looking ahead to the time when everything is moved in, cleaned up, and organized.

I become rather energized in the winter. I'm not quite at that point right now, since my energies are focused on big projects and an endless to-do list. Plus it's Advent, which is a quieter time for self-reflection, and sometimes doubt and loneliness emerge from turning inward. But I am really looking forward to all the clear-headed energy I'll have in a few weeks. Here are some of the activities I'm focused on right now:

1. Decorating my new bedroom--I began painting this weekend, a beautiful calm grayish-sage green. Such an improvement from jarring bright turquoise! The color is rather similar to the one in this photo, and this room is so inspiring, exactly the look that I'd love for my bedroom. I really think I could pull off a look similar to this one, even in my tiny new bedroom. I also love the bookcase next to the window--I think books are an underrated decorating tool. Plus, the plaid curtains are killing me! I love how this decorator managed to keep a feminine feel even while using a few masculine pieces. I love tartan!

2. Christmas cards--I am looking forward to sitting down with a stack of cards, my address book, and some holiday stamps so I can spread some cheer!

3. Contemplating the theme for 2010 and my revised aspirations for a fresh new year. I find that I have not kept past New Year's resolutions, so in 2010, I'm making a list of aspirations and hopes, not rigid goals that I'll feel bad about not meeting. Maybe without the pressure, I'll actually accomplish a few.

4. Spending quality time with my mom and sister over the holidays.

5. Spending time with my FRIENDS that I haven't seen in over a month. What gives?

6. Mulling over some sweet mysterious changes to the blog in 2010. I've revamped the layout and background (hopefully it looks better than before?), but I'm hoping to incorporate some new posting topics, such as style posts. I know style blogs are hugely popular right now, and I don't want to copy the genius of other bloggers, but I feel so inspired by the style posts I see. They remind me of how much I really love pretty things and also how much I have neglected myself for quite a long time. Time to incorporate inspiration and beauty into daily life!

Almost there

2009-12-07T19:51:00.000-05:00

What I'm up to right now--finishing the last 3 pages of my research paper on liberal education and drinking a coke to keep me fueled. My nutrition suffers for my work!

Monday's movie

2009-12-07T11:08:00.001-05:00

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince comes out on video tomorrow, December 8! I'll definitely watch this one this week.

Summoning the will

2009-12-06T22:52:00.001-05:00

There's something about being thisclose to being finished with something that makes me want to quit and throw the entire effort out the window. I've only got 15 pages worth of papers to write before I am completely, 100% finished with my master's degree. And, those papers are due TOMORROW! Yikes! I am just trying to visualize myself finishing that last paper and feeling the immense relief of knowing all the work is done. Motivate, Johanna, motivate!

Does anyone else go through this--getting almost to the end and losing the energy to finish the very last task?

This beautiful image was found on We Heart It.

Beauty wish list

2009-12-04T14:29:00.015-05:00

I've been so in the mood for some cosmetics shopping lately. Here are some makeup and beauty products that look amazing:

Clinique Long Last Soft Shine Lipstick: Much like its name implies, this lovely lipstick lasts a while and makes your pout luminous. "All Heart" is a classic shade.

Philosophy Falling in Love Perfumed Body Lotion: I tried a sample of this moisturizer years ago and "fell in love" with the scent.

Phytocyane Revitalizing Serum: This product claims to combat thinning and gray hair in women. Perfect for a gal like me, blessed with genes for thinning hair and premature graying. Don't the little viles look very serious and scientific?

Fresh Rose Face Mask: This gel mask literally has rose petals that melt into your skin. Provides hydration and brings out skin's radiance.

Givenchy Black for Light Mask: Light Enhancing Black Mask: This looks amazing! It's supposed to brighten your natural skin tones.

Ole Henriksen Truth Serum: This looks like it would smell like oranges. This serum contains a concentration of 10% vitamin C and smoothes skin and boosts radiance.

Take a walk on the wild side with Kat Von D. Painted Love Lipstick: The packaging is really cute. I think I'd like the "Misfit" shade!

Lancome Color Focus Palette: I really like Lancome eyeshadows because they are really nicely pigmented and long-lasting.

Lancome Definicils: I love this mascara! It defines each lash with very minimal clumping. Lashes look defined and pretty, but not too heavy.

All images and links from Sephora.

Friday's quote

2009-12-04T13:07:00.003-05:00

Not really a quote today, but a neat concept I heard about some time ago. It's the idea that you have to compromise sometimes on your expectations.

Pick 2: good, fast, cheap.

If you want something to be good and fast, it won't be cheap.

If you want something to be fast and cheap, it won't be good.

If you want something to be cheap and good, it won't be fast.

Thursday's coveted item

2009-12-03T15:08:00.003-05:00

These lovely London blue topaz earrings from jennytrinh on Etsy.

A little pick-me-up

2009-12-01T14:07:00.004-05:00

I cannot express how much I adore reading other blogs. There is so much beauty and loveliness in the world, and it's so easy to overlook it when we trudge through our daily mediocrity out in the "real" world, but certain blogs open our eyes to everything that lies beyond the daily mundane. Some blogs show us that the beauty and wonder that we attribute to fantasy are, in fact, someone's everyday reality!

Blogs can serve as a little pick-me-up when we're feeling low or bored, but lately more than ever, I have been so inspired. I feel like something is bubbling in my soul, ready to be born. For the past two years, I've suppressed a part of me that refuses to remain quiet any longer. I'm coming to a point in my life where I have to make a choice--do I want a beautiful and joyful life, or do I want drudgery and endless toiling? If I want beauty, I must put forth the effort, and I must laugh in the face of those who would urge me to be "reasonable." I find it very unreasonable to toil in an office from 8-5 every day in order to make an income that I can't even live on! It is impractical to perform work that contributes no joy, happiness, insight, clarity, or intellectual stimulation to the world--what is the point of it? "Reasonable" would be waking up every morning excited about the day, knowing that I would spend it working on my projects. You see, I don't want to be lazy and have no projects or work to do--I just want the work I do to be my own! I want my work to fulfill me. I want to create magic out of each day.

Back to blogs. I have stumbled across some gorgeous gems in the blogworld recently, gems that inspire me to keep up the search for a magical life. I have to share:

http://lululetty.blogspot.com/

http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/

http://theglamourousgradstudent.blogspot.com/

All address the beautiful--the whimsical--in their own unique ways.

Tuesday's tune

2009-12-01T08:01:00.005-05:00

Kate Bush's "Wuthering Heights"

Once again, losing steam

2009-11-30T22:05:00.004-05:00

My last day of classes for the semester is tomorrow, which should make me very happy, but I am overwhelmed with worry and anxiety. I have a paper due Friday, a huge paper due next Monday, and then I go through the graduate hooding ceremony the next Friday (Dec 11). I am thrilled to be 10 days away from having my master's degree, but I feel so bogged down with endless work!

I like having work to do--a purpose, something to accomplish. I enjoy having self-assigned projects--stories, paintings, blogging, non-school essays on various absurdities. It's just that right now, I am so tired, and my serious, grown-up to-do list seems to grow more each day. I have to finish those last couple of papers for school, but while doing that, I'm worrying about packing up my 1500 sq foot condo in the next 3 weeks and moving into a 120 sq foot bedroom at my mother's house. On top of that, I am still trying to clean up the office and get it presentable again--I'm trying to transform it into a modest sitting room/library--and then I need to paint my new bedroom. Right now it's a jarring turquoise, and I want it to be a calm grayish sage.

This photo taken in Maui, March 2008--oh to be there right now!

No one wants to read a blog about belly-aching, right? I know. I am just down on myself because there is so much that I want to do. I am seeing all the possibilities I have before me now more than ever--I feel the possibilities in my being. Yet I have so much to do, I feel that my inspiration is going to leave me if I don't address it really soon. I am ready for calm, quiet peace and the time to sit in my cave and attend to my projects. I pray that time comes soon! I feel pulled in a dozen different directions! My sister tells me it's crazy to live in the future, and I know that's what I'm doing when I put off the things I love for a more "convenient" time. But we also have to deal with reality and all of the things that must be addressed immediately, and now is a time when I must stay focused and practical.

I had a wonderful idea the other day! My dad passed away 3 years ago, and we have all of his clothes. My mother has been wondering lately what to do with everything, and a genius thought came to me. There are several tweed blazers in good condition, and the idea has struck me to pick out a couple and have them tailored to fit me! I think this is a wonderful way to keep some things of his while making them wearable and practical for me! It doesn't hurt that I love tweed and menswear (see post on Sherlock Holmes), so I think I will get a lot of use and pleasure out of his blazers. I will post before and after photos when I get that underway.

This has been a long rambling post, but I felt compelled to write a diary entry of sorts to help clear out my head. I can't wait to get all this school and moving business behind me so I can get back to what makes me happy! I am toying with some new ideas for the blog and hope to begin implementing them in January.

Monday's movie: Love Actually

2009-11-30T11:58:00.002-05:00

One of my favorites, Love Actually (2003) is a heart-warming holiday film that offers a collection of interconnected stories depicting the different faces of love. Most of the characters are connected to each other in some way. It boasts an ensemble cast including Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Liam Neeson, and plenty others. My favorite love story in it is between Jamie and Aurelia. Though neither understands the other's language, they are able to carry on conversations without knowing it. They develop a connection that transcends language and verbal communication, which certainly could be one definition of "love," right? I really think their story is one of the sweetest in the film.

Moral dilemma

2009-11-26T23:50:00.005-05:00

I'm struggling with accepting a centuries-old fashion staple that has once again become very popular in current fashion. I'm talking about fur.

I have generally believed that wearing fur is wrong, but lately I find myself admiring the fur collars and stoles I have seen so much of recently. The furs I have seen lately are so beautiful, and I find that they add tremendous richness to a look. A fur collar instantly adds luxury to a wool coat or simple cardigan, and lovely wraps and stoles add texture, warmth, and modesty to slinky party dresses and gowns. My fashion genius friend Megan wore a stunning white fur wrap over her wedding gown during her reception last January, and she was a breathtaking winter goddess. My sister wore a lovely fox stole over an ivory silk gown at a theme party I had a few months ago, and the effect was luxurious and other-worldly. My fur-wearing friends are causing me to question whether I should reevaluate my disdain for fur.

My "foxy" sister

I love animals and think the way human beings treat them is despicable. Animals are generally mistreated--in the food industry, in fashion, in pharmaceutical and cosmetic testing, and in many other ways (hunting, religious rites, various types of training and sport, etc.). I know that animals are subjected to tremendous pain and suffering in the name of human comfort, entertainment, and luxury. I do not want to contribute more to their suffering than I already do, being a non-vegetarian with "normal" human habits.

However, I am questioning the fur issue, and I'll admit it is due to vanity. The issue is not that I am looking for a way to justify contributing to the fur industry, but that I am questioning whether wearing fur at all is acceptable. Let me explain.

My grandmother has a couple of vintage fur collars that were bought when she was a young woman that she plans to give to either my sister or to me (or to both of us). These furs are at least 40-50 years old. My first inclination is not to accept one because I have always considered it wrong to wear fur, and I do not want to contribute to an industry that has such little regard for animals. However, because these furs were purchased long ago, I realize that by accepting one as a gift from my grandmother, I am not directly contributing to the fur industry. Because I would not be purchasing it myself, I would not be using my money to further the practices of the fur industry.

I wonder about vintage furs in general. If I find a fur collar at a vintage store and buy it, my money supports the store. Since the store sells second-hand goods and does not buy from fur companies, my money does not support the fur industry. The vintage fur would have been purchased from a retailer by someone in the past, and that purchase would have contributed to the fur industry, but buying it second-hand would not.

Obviously, I do not want to contribute to the fur industry, so I would never purchase a fur from a retailer. However, I am on the fence about whether purchasing vintage fur poses a personal moral dilemma--even if my money does not promote the fur industry, wouldn't wearing fur, vintage or not, promote the continuation of the fur industry in some way? I am no fashion trend-setter, but it seems to me that wearing second-hand fur might inspire someone else to wear fur. My friends wear fur and now I am wanting to wear it, too.

I don't know where I stand on this issue yet. I do believe that it is much more responsible to purchase second-hand furs than to purchase them through retailers. While I certainly don't think poorly of my friends who have bought vintage furs, I do think that as long as people wear furs, no matter how they're obtained, the fur problem will continue. So I suppose the question I need to answer is whether I am comfortable with having an indirect impact on the fur industry or whether I want to shun it altogether.

What do others think about this issue? Is it okay to wear fur if it's vintage, or is it always wrong?

Monday's Movie

2009-11-23T09:29:00.004-05:00

Apartment for Peggy (1948), starring Edmund Gwenn, Jeanne Crain, and William Holden. A wonderful film about Henry, a retired old professor who wants to end his life because he thinks it is useless, dull, and joyless. He meets Peggy Taylor, a young military wife looking for housing for herself and her husband, Jason, a college student going to school on the GI Bill. Peggy convinces Henry to let her and Jason stay in his attic, and all kinds of things happen to disrupt Henry's home life. As he develops a strong attachment to Peggy and Jason, his life changes and he begins to find something to live for.

This film has several themes. One is whether it is worth it to endure hardship in order to live the life one wants or to choose an easier and more stable path. This theme is shown through Jason, who struggles with the choice to stay in school so he can become a teacher (his dream) or to quit school so he can get a better-paying job and support his beloved wife and future children (his other dream). Another theme is the idea of education and its uplifting and transformative effects. One can see this when Peggy organizes an informal seminar program for the military wifes where they can attend classes on academic subjects, like philosophy. Henry helps in this effort, and the scene where he presents his first lecture is both funny and uplifting. The women who attend the lecture participate actively and remain highly engaged, and they demonstrate the positive effects education can have on one's concept of self-worth and self-confidence.

The theme that I find most significant and most compelling is the that of human connection. By getting to know Peggy, Henry begins to feel that his life has purpose and meaning. Not only do Henry and Peggy care for each other, but they are useful to each other, and they each bring unique strengths to the relationship. In addition to providing a home, Henry is able to offer his expertise and his background in philosophy to help with Peggy's lecture program, and he feels good knowing that he can still contribute. Peggy helps Henry with household chores, but she also brings vivacity and joy into his life. For me, the most important message that stands out from Apartment for Peggy is the idea that we each need to feel that our lives have purpose and that we have a contribution to make. Human connection helps us to feel good about ourselves.

I need to watch this movie again and write down all the poignant lines, because there are many!

(Paraphrased) Poignant line: "Education lights up dark places."

Auntie Jo's Famous Cranberry Sauce

2009-11-20T23:58:00.002-05:00

"Famous" means that 4 of my 5 family members approve.

Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cherries and Cloves:
1 12-oz. package of cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 8-oz. package of dried cherries
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (you'll think you're clever by doubling this for extra flavor, but let me assure you--DON'T)

Follow directions on the package of cranberries. Directions typically say to combine a cup of water with a cup of sugar and bring to a boil. When mixture comes to a boil, add cranberries (you've already picked out the bad ones), bring back to a boil, and cook for 10 minutes. Cranberries will begin to burst. Remove from heat. Add cherries and let stand for a few minutes. Stir in cloves. Let cool. Refrigerate. In the morning, you will have lovely congealed decadence.

Quick and easy, and as Niles would say, it has a very beguiling flavor.

Auntie Jo's Holiday Shopping Guide: Mommies

2009-11-20T14:47:00.001-05:00

I'm piggy-backing off the ideas of other bloggers here, but I've decided to create my own shopping guide for the holidays. Few suggestions are over $50. The first feature is shopping for mothers.

Reinventing the Body, Resurrecting the Soul: How to Create a New You $14.47
For the mommy who needs some TLC

Redfeather Adult Conquest Snowshoes $69.99 (I cheated!)
For the winter sport-loving mommy

Under the Dome $14.50
For the best-seller mommy

Webs Mohair Loop-blend Yarn $12.99/600 yards
For the crafty mommy

In Vogue: The Illustrated History of the World's Most Famous Fashion Magazine $47.25
For the fashionista mommy

Peter Thomas Roth Age Defense Kit $45
For the beauty-junk loving mommy

VillaWare Classic Waffle Maker $59.95 (I cheated again!)
For the foodie mommy

Hawaii Roasters 100% Kona Coffee, 1 pound, $29.99
For the coffee afficionado mommy

1000 Places to See Before You Die $12.97
For the arm-chair traveling mommy

Travelers Club Doctor Style Boarding Tote $39.99
For the jet-setting mommy

Martha's New Book $18.90
For the domestic diva mommy

Williams Sonoma Martini Pitcher $39
For the vodka-loving mommy who loves to entertain at home

Top five

2009-11-20T14:01:00.006-05:00

The top five things I'm loving right now:

1. "Tonic"--a soothing, delicious, and miracle-working beverage made by bringing water to a near boil and adding the juice of 1/2 lemon (approximately) and about 2 tsbp. honey. So comforting, I immediately feel more at peace when I drink it.

2. Thoughts of holiday gifts--I'm planning on giving homemade yummies as gifts this year. I'm thinking 2-3 types of cookies and maybe homemade candy like pralines or fudge.

http://www.marthastewart.com/

3. Graduating three weeks from today.

4. Apartment for Peggy, a delightful movie that came out in 1948, starring Edmund Gwenn and Jeanne Craine. Such a wonderful old movie with important messages about human connection.

5. It's Friday!!!! I'm going to see New Moon tomorrow afternoon and will spend the rest of the weekend writing papers and cleaning and organizing my dad's office.

Style icon: Sherlock Holmes

2009-11-20T12:40:00.003-05:00

I love vests, coats, and luxurious outerwear. I love rich brown and black leather. I like tweed and plaid. I've realized for a while now, due to Niles' jesting, that my style taste is informed somewhat by that of Sherlock Holmes, the famous fictional detective immortalized by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. There's just something about his wonderful, English style--the warm tweeds and vests, dapper capes and hats, and polished footwear.

I use the term "my style taste" loosely, because sadly, I truly feel that I have no style lately. It's a terrible excuse, but I am too tired, busy, lazy, whatever, to put any effort into my dressing or grooming at all. I say this with shame, because I realize that if someone like Anna Wintour can look impeccable every minute of the day despite her demanding schedule, I can at least put make-up on. Yet, it seems that each morning I determine that hitting snooze 3 times before getting up is more important to me than looking presentable. Oh how sad this makes me! I don't really want to be a slob! But unlike the amazingly styled and groomed women we see in magazines, I lack the motivation to exchange sleep time for looking-good-prep time--maybe it's because I'm not in magazines??

Anyway, back to my original theme--Sherlock Holmes as style icon. Yes, it's true; he is worth emulating, even if you are female. Although, I don't encourage smoking a pipe or indulging in illegal drugs in the evening . . . .

By the way, I am thrilled beyond words to find out that I am not the first who believes that Mr. Holmes' style is divine! I've found a delightful blog, Mr. Peacock, which is a blog for the "modern gentleman," (isn't that wonderful?), where Sherlock's style has been praised. Please check out Mr. Peacock's Sherlock post, where he shows us his idea of the modern Sherlock Holmes wardrobe. My heart is a-flutter!

Now for my own suggestions for becoming a modern female Sherlock:

1. Incorporate more tweed into your wardrobe--knee-length skirts and fitted blazers complement fall fashions perfectly

Professora Jacket, Anthropologie

2. Engage in some sophisticated past-times such as playing chess, reading the classics, and tinkering nightly with your violin while pacing your parlor and puzzling over the day's great mystery.
3. When you don your gay apparel, go all the way--don't just throw on some old jacket in the morning; jazz up your outerwear ensembles with scarves, smart caps, and leather gloves
4. Become friendly with warm, spicy colors like brown, maroon, and butterscotch--the modern female Sherlock can and should wear any color she pleases, but lovely fall tones should be your staple. Gray and black are excellent choices to round out the wardrobe.
5. Try a cape--depending on where you live, you may get a few stares, but it's worth it to feel so close to Sherlock
6. When you find someone to be absurd, precede his or her name with "My dear." Example: "My dear Niles, I find it very narrow-minded of you to ridicule me for enjoying the sartorial greatness of Sherlock Holmes."
7. Keep a perpetual smirk on your face so that when you meet someone new, you make them wonder what's so amusing and immediately put them on the defensive.
8. When in disguise, smudge soot on your face and assume a Cockney accent; no one will notice your prominent nose at all.
9. After a long hard day, reward yourself by slipping into a smoking jacket.

10. Make plaid and houndstooth your favorite prints.
11. Feminize your favorite Sherlock-inspired pieces; you don't have to throw out the girly.

Friday's quote

2009-11-20T09:55:00.001-05:00

"All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another.”

Anatole France, 1844-1924

Turkey Day recipes!

2009-11-18T16:08:00.003-05:00

Thanksgiving is only a little over one week away! I cannot believe that the summer and fall flew by so quickly. Everything seems like such a whirlwind!

In earlier family talks about what we're having for Thanksgiving--which, in my opinion, is kind of a "why bother?" conversation since there's only five of us and we always have the exact same things--I said I would make a dish in addition to the usual DELISH cranberry sauce I have made for the past 4 years. This cranberry sauce is so good, even people who claim to hate cranberry sauce love this one! Since I am a loving blog-auntie, I will share my recipe very soon. I don't believe in keeping wonderful things a secret. Ahem.

Now I am left pondering what I will make this year. Here are my stipulations:

1. Cannot contain green beans or corn, as my grandmother's green bean casserole contains both

2. Cannot be a potato dish, as we are already having the tried and true mashed variety

3. Cannot be any kind of meat/main-dish, as we are having turkey, my grandmother doesn't eat pork, and again, there's only 5 of us so we don't need two meats

4. Probably shouldn't be a dessert--we're already having a pumpkin cheesecake and my grandma wants to make a chocolate cake

Perusing my favorite recipe site, http://www.epicurious.com/, I have found the following recipes that I am considering for Turkey Day:

Creamed Spinach, because a green vegetable never hurt anyone (although the butter and cream might)

Carrots with Shallots, Sage, and Thyme

Shaved Brussel Sprouts and Shallot Saute

(all photos from http://www.epicurious.com/)

What's your vote? I'm leaning toward the brussel sprouts.

Friday's quote

2009-11-13T10:02:00.004-05:00

"When it comes to life and love, why do we believe our worst reviews?"

Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City

Beauty Resolutions

2009-11-12T16:07:00.005-05:00

Image from http://www.thefashionspot.com/

Check out The Fashion Spot's Top 8 Beauty Resolutions. This website is amazing, and I love articles like these.

My favorite tip: Get out of your rut! That's my big struggle right now. I'm in a big sleeping too late and looking like a slob rut.

Thursday's coveted item

2009-11-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

Finally! A sweater with elbow patches! Yes, it is a men's sweater, but it looks like that's my only option.

LL Bean Shetland Wool Shawl Collar Sweater, $54.50.

Luxury

2009-11-11T21:08:00.006-05:00

I've had to cancel tomorrow's scheduled haircut because of low funds. : (

Image from www.vogue.com

I would love nothing more than a mani/pedi, followed by a haircut, shopping, drunken lunch with friends, a full-body massage, and a nice bubble bath and 7 pound glossy to round out the day.

OPI "Lincoln Park at Midnight"

But at least I have a home, a reliable car, a job, food, friends, and wonderful family. : )

It has been over a year since I've painted my own nails, so I thought it was high time to do it. I've used OPI's "Hollywood and Wine," which was discontinued years ago, but it is my all-time fave nail color! You can layer it on thick and get your nails almost black, or you can do thin layers to allow the rich wine color to come through. I think the color above, "Lincoln Park at Midnight" would be a fine substitute, although it's not nearly as dark. I detest waiting for my nails to dry, but I bit the bullet this evening!

My coworker has inspired me this week. She dyed her hair black over the weekend, and today she came to work with these gorgeous, voluminous black curls. She looked tres French dressed in a black boat-neck sweater and gray ankle pants. I was so envious of her style today! I have neglected anything good for me lately--healthy eating, exercise, make-up, cute outfits. I guess I am just starved for some good grooming!

Veteran's Day

2009-11-11T12:05:00.002-05:00

Today, November 11, is Veteran's Day, a day when we celebrate those who have served in the United States military, both living and deceased. It falls on the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I. If I am not mistaken, this day also marks a special remembrance of those who died in war who were not identified.

All the veterans in my family are deceased, but there are many in my family history. I know that my family and ancestors fought in the American Revolutionary War, the Civil War, World War II, and the Vietnam War. I am not sure of the many other wars and battles my ancestors may have fought in.

If you know a vet, please take a moment to thank him or her for service to this country. Although we all do not agree on the reasons for going into war, I hope that we can all agree that the people that serve our country deserve respect and honor.