minutiae*the small and trivial details of my life

ending a weekend

2012-01-22T23:08:00.000-08:00

To lie or to lay? That is the question. One's grammatical reputation rests on this choice: when to lay and when to lie.

That's what my cocoa mug says. Josh's mug contains an explanation of pronouns. (Sometimes, though, I want the pronoun mug.) I'm sitting with my feet propped up in an apartment that is full of unfolded laundry, dirty cereal bowls, and folders of Primary lesson helps on the floor. I have half-finished knitting projects sitting on the kitchen table and one of two IKEA nightstands put together.And I'm thinking about the weekend I've had.

Yesterday was my first Saturday off work since November (excepting our trip to Colorado), and it was lovely. We went to the Living Room Theaters downtown, where you order lunch before the movie and they bring you your meal in the theater: The Adventures of Tin-Tin, big comfy chairs, deep cup holders, and a cheese-pesto panini--delightful. Then I spent a few minutes in Powell's stocking up on books to get me started on my 2012 reading. Right now, though, I'm rereading another favorite, These Is My Words, and I'm falling in love with it all over again. We had waffles for dinner and spent the whole evening in stretchy pants.

So it was a pretty good weekend. And we've had a pretty good weekend end, what with our grammar-conscious cocoa and everything. Instead of worrying about the mess and unfinished projects, I'm going to lie down on the couch after laying my computer on the floor.

a day for chili

2012-01-19T13:06:00.000-08:00

This week the weather has looked a lot like this.

I wish my little point-and-shoot camera could convey the heavy, steady fall of rain and the frequent swooshes of wind that have accompanied this wet and wintry week. This is the weather that begs for stretchy pants, hot chocolate, and a good book. So yesterday after walking in after work, I decided that homemade chili was the perfect meal for a wet and stormy night.

I found my favorite chili recipe this past fall in this magazine. It's seriously the best chili recipe I've ever encountered. It calls for real chili peppers that you process to make your own chili powder. Real chili peppers, people. This recipe is so legit. The chili powder smells enticingly exotic yet still carries that comfort food vibe. It's magical.

And then, if you can imagine that this chili can get any better, you use blade steak for the meat instead of ground beef. (Making this recipe is a bit of a financial investment depending on the steak you spring for, but trust me, it's a culinary splurge worth indulging in.) I would have taken some pictures of the final product except that by the time it was ready we were so hungry and so ready for some stretchy pants that I skipped the final picture all together. Just know that it was delicious and that the leftovers won't last through the weekend.

To top off the night, do you think that there would be a better dessert than Diet Delight? (Sugar-free Jello pudding with a few dollops of light Cool Whip mixed in, more Cool Whip on top, and mini chocolate chips--delightful.) No one knows how to do winter rain like the Wilsons, people.

PS I know I need to update my blog banner, because I do know that it's now 2012. Cut me a break, though. I'm still in stretchy pants.

OSR: December 2011, and a reading recap

2012-01-13T11:33:00.000-08:00

So here's the thing: I read one book in all of December. And I read half of it on the plane to Colorado two days before Christmas. I had started reading a Fitzgerald book and couldn't bring myself to keep reading it because I was so bored. This book that I did finish, though, was simple, enjoyable, and easy.

The Hollow by Agatha Christie

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was another straightforward mystery that had enough intrigue to keep me guessing and enough simplicity to not frustrate. this was perfect reading for the end of the year when I'm low on time and patience.

View all my reviews

And now, here's a recap of my 2011 reading, arranged in order of ratings.

Five-star books:
Peace Like a River, Leif Enger
The Power of One, Bryce Courtenay
The Help, Kathryn Stockett
Rocket Boys, Homer H. Hickam, Jr.
To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee
East of Eden, John Steinbeck

{via}

Four-star books:
Jacob T. Marley, William R. Bennett
The Woman in White, Wilkie Collins
Shanghai Girls, Lisa See
Little Bee, Chris Cleave
Summers at Castle Auburn, Sharon Shinn
Tallgrass, Sandra Dallas
Eve and the Choice Made in Eden, Beverly Campbell
What's Up Down There?: Questions You'd Only Ask Your Gynecologist If She Was Your Best Friend, Lissa Rankin
Bossypants, Tina Fey
So Brave, Young, and Handsome, Leif Enger
The Goose Girl, Shannon Hale
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Steig Larssson
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Steig Larsson
The Other Side of the Bridge, Mary Lawson
Princess Academy, Shannon Hale
A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens
The Star Garden: A Novel of Sarah Agnes Prine, Nancy E. Turner
The Glass Castle, Jeannette Walls
Dracula, Bram Stoker

{via}

Three-star books:
The Hollow, Agatha Christie
Slathbog's Gold, M. L. Forman
Moloka'i, Alan Brennert
Water for Elephants, Sara Gruen
Mindful Eating: A Guide to Rediscovering a Healthy and Joyful Relationship with Food, Jan Chozen Bays
Unbearable Lightness, Portia De Rossi
The Bride's House, Sandra Dallas
Murder on the Orient Express, Agatha Christie
I Still Dream about You, Fannie Flagg
How I Planned Your Wedding, Susan Wiggs
The Girl Who Played with Fire, Steig Larsson
Sarah's Key, Tatiana de Rosnay

{via}

Two-star books:
The Imperfectionists, Tom Rachman
Boneshaker, Cherie Priest
The Memory Keeper's Daughter, Kim Edwards

One-star books:
The Magicians, Lev Grossman

{via}

Other stats:
:: Of my six five-star books, four of them (66 percent) were rereads.
:: Those four books were my only rereads of the year.
:: I read eight nonfiction books, including memoirs (almost 20 percent of my 2011 books).
:: Three of my books were young-adult novels (7 percent).
:: I read five historical fiction books (12 percent).
:: Four of my books were mysteries (almost 10 percent)
:: I completely hated only one book (2 percent)
:: I read seven books in May, the most books I read in a single month in 2011 (17 percent).
:: I categorized eight books as favorites, new reads and rereads included (almost 20 percent).

{via}

It was a good reading year for me, even if I didn't make my revised goal of 45 books. When making my 2012 reading goals I toned it down a bit. Without a commute, my reading time has decreased, so I'm shooting for 35 books this year. I'm already one down!

What are your reading goals for 2012?

why I didn't go to church

2012-01-08T16:43:00.000-08:00

I have the mother of all colds. This cold has lasted four weeks, people. That's a whole month.

I've spent my entire day either on the couch or in my bed watching episodes of Gilmore Girls, Parks and Recreation, White Collar, and Downton Abbey while alternating among knitting, resting, and blowing my nose over and over. This setup really isn't so bad except that I feel awful.

I couldn't even enjoy my chicken noodle soup for lunch because I can't taste a single thing. Even Eggo waffles.

Here's to a more taste-filled and less phlegm-congested day tomorrow. And let's keep the TV and knitting, please.

a new year's cake

2012-01-06T09:59:00.000-08:00

I have a hard time with the new year. Remember that feeling we had as kids the day after Christmas? The feeling that said that all the fun is over? That's how I feel about January. January is the month where the miles separating my family and me are more acute and palpable, the month that lends itself most to loneliness.

Wednesday I took down my Christmas decorations with some Gilmore Girls on in the background. The day was gray, and I was fighting against the this-time-last-week game (you know, the masochistic game that tells you that last week at this time you were having a ball and now you're not). Then I had an idea: bake a cake. Bake a cake for the new year.

So after I packed away the tree, ornaments, and wreath, I pulled out the eggs, milk, flour, and cake pans. With another episode of Gilmore Girls on the TV, I baked a cake that turned out wonderfully. I tried a new chocolate frosting recipe and displayed the cake in a pretty cake dome.

I loved offsetting something that makes me blue with something delicious, sweet, and mildly decadent. I call it a new year's cake, and even though it's something small, it made me feel a less little sad about this oh-so-hard month.

2011 in review

2011-12-31T23:29:00.000-08:00

winter

:: Josh and I started teaching the 8- to 9-year-olds at church. Boy, has that kept us on our toes.

:: I admitted an emotional funk.
:: I had some articles published in the New Era.

:: I discovered Fabric Depot.

:: Josh turned 26.
:: I fell in with Jimmer-mania.
:: I had a hard time adjusting to my full-time job downtown.

:: I started sewing, and my first skirt was dubbed "crafty" by an insensitive coworker, and my second skirt gave me hell.

:: I survived my first Oregon winter.

spring
:: We celebrated our six-month-iversary and had no qualms about the cheesiness of it all.
:: I had my first day off of work since Christmas.
:: I filed our taxes and with some of the return bought a KitchenAid
:: I met up with my sister, mom, aunt, and cousin at Women's Conference in Utah.
:: I met one of my kindred spirit friends through blogging, a friend who, incidentally, I had many classes with at school and never got to know until we lived on opposite sides of the country.
:: The rain continued.
:: I ate Lebanese food for the first time.
:: I went to the Oregon coast for the first time and loved it.
:: I had some a serious cake failure.
:: I read many, many books.

summer
:: We spent the Fourth with my family in Colorado.
:: I posted about my strong feelings on feminism and how women are treated in the media.
:: I chopped my hair.
:: I finished writing the wedding thank-yous.
:: I hiked at Mount St. Helens.
:: I stopped working downtown and have never looked back.
:: We went to DisneyLand with the Wilson clan.
:: I turned 24.
:: I planned my fall sewing.

autumn

:: I had another cake failure when I tried to bake a cake for my grandma's birthday.

:: We started rock climbing.

:: I made a point of doing spooky things for Halloween.

:: Rachelle came to visit for a whole week, and we rocked Oregon.

:: Josh and I celebrated our first anniversary.

:: I had an emergency root canal.

:: I subscribed to Cook's Illustrated.

:: I started a new job at Deseret Book, a place I never saw myself working until I got there.

:: We celebrated another Wilson Thanksgiving.

:: I added to our Christmas decorations.

:: I experienced working holiday retail hours.

:: I blogged only seven times during December, including this post.

So it was a pretty good year. Nothing super eventful happened, but sometimes years like that are nice. I felt like I really settled into my chosen life. I've felt contentment over my choices and have never been happier than I am right now.

Happy new year, everyone.

some affirmations

2011-12-30T23:32:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am still a blogger.
And yes, I know that it's been almost two weeks since I've posted.
Yes, we went to Colorado for Christmas.
And yes, it was completely wonderful.
Yes, Josh did give me a Silhouette Cameo for Christmas.
I know.
No, I was not ready to leave home to go home.
Yes, both Colorado and Oregon feel like home to me.
Yes, I cried a lot when I said goodbye to my mom.
Yes, I will be getting back into the blogging groove.
Yes, I did buy more fabric in Colorado.
Yes, I did start listening to Harry Potter 5 when we got back tonight.
And no, I will not reach my 45-book goal for 2011. I did, however, surpass my initial reading goal of 40 books. And seriously, 41 books in a year is not too shabby.

guest posting

2011-12-19T10:21:00.000-08:00

Happy Christmas week, everyone! I have a pretty crazy week ahead of me that will conclude with flying home to Colorado to be with my family for Christmas. Can't wait. Today you can find me at Emily K Designs posting about one of my favorite Christmas traditions! Have you just been dying to know how my taffeta-tulle skirt turned out? Check out my guest post!

12 on 12: december 2011 hodgepodge grid

2011-12-15T21:52:00.000-08:00

So, confession time: I didn't ever end up doing a November grid. That day ended up being a weird one for me, and I just wasn't in the mood. I kind of feel guilty, but I also kind of feel okay about it.

And another aforementioned confession: The photos in this grid weren't all taken on the same day, but were actually taken over the course of three days. Yes, people, three days, for a 12-on-12 grid. I didn't want to forgo this month's grid like I did with November's, so this month you get the 12-on-12-13-and-14 grid. And, actually, this happens to be one of my favorite grids this year.

01. 12.12--Leisurely morning shower
02. 12.12--Homemade mac 'n' cheese and broccoli, the ultimate comfort food
03. 12.13--Caramel-chocolate-toffee pretzels to take to my coworkers (please note the baker's twine--it's my favorite part of the whole thing
04. 12.13--Glittery Christmas tree
05. 12.13--My current number-one fictional character crush, Neal Caffrey
06. 12.13--My new sewing book that I'm crushing on
07. 12.13--Sunny, cold day
08. 12.13--Leftover homemade mac 'n' cheese
09. 12.13--Blurry photo of my bookseller name tag
10. 12.14--Crashing on the couch before a later work shift
11. 12.14--Packing peanuts from an eBay package
12. 12.14--My Christmas to-do list, but obviously I can't show you--hello, it's Christmas

Did you do 12-on-12 this month?

a blog?

2011-12-14T22:20:00.000-08:00

What, I still have a blog? Are you sure? Even though it's been only a week since I've posted, it feels like much longer. December is flying by in twinkle lights, yarn wreaths, Christmas shopping crowds, long work hours, late-night Gilmore Girls episodes, revisiting The X-Files, unfolded laundry, and Christmas sewing.

Phew.

I have a 12-on-12 grid to post, and this one will be unique, because here's the thing: I didn't manage to take 12 pictures on the 12th, 13th, or 14th, so I'm combining my pictures from all three days to complete the grid. Let's pencil that post in for tomorrow? Okay? Okay.

And my 2011 reading goal? Still behind. Two books behind. Heavens.

some holiday favorites

2011-12-07T22:20:00.000-08:00

:: A Muppet Christmas Carol DVD at Costco for $12.99. Hello, my childhood.
:: Felt mistletoe (pictures coming soon)
:: The plaid taffeta Christmas skirt I'm sewing for myself--it includes tulle, people. Tulle.
:: The Modern Family Christmas special
:: Nick Lachey as The Sing-Off host--he still has that boy-band smile and swagger, and I love it.
:: Katelyn coming home this month--so excited
:: My freelance article in an online magazine--check it out (mine is on page 46)

I'll be posting some pictures soon of the Christmasing that's been happening around the apartment--so far, this December has been a delightful one.

PS--If you didn't at least preview the Muppet and Nick Lachey links, do. Because they're awesome, and I was really excited to find them.

new peeps

2011-12-02T15:46:00.000-08:00

So the crown for my root canal is gold. Yes, gold. I'd show you but the cortortions required to get a picture that far into my mouth wouldn't paint me very pretty, and my vanity gene is too pronounced to allow me to post such images.

Just know that now I can hang with the gangsters and the pirates. Obviously.

OSR: November 2011--so close

2011-11-30T20:56:00.000-08:00

Eve and the Choice Made in Eden by Beverly Campbell

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Eve gets a bad rap, and we all know it. Even I've had my own qualms with the Eden story because of simple lack of understanding, and this book really cleared so much of that up for me.

The Garden story is now one of my new favorite scriptural stories because I've started to understand it so much better. Eve knew what she was doing, and she was influential and powerful. Not only did I start to gain a deeper understanding of gospel principles regarding womanhood and agency, but I also learned more about our relationship with God and my own personal mission.

I have a better idea of the kind of woman I want to be and realize that Eve is the ultimate pioneer. Every woman should read this book. I know I'll reference mine often.

The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Whenever I read or watch mystery stories, I try to figure everything out, and The Woman in White was no exception. The thing is, though, that I didn't really predict any of the twists in this book. Collins had me hooked the whole time--and I really liked that.

The mystery of the woman in white isn't your expected murder or robbery, but rather involves intricate and crafted conspiracy. The characterizations were thorough, and the web of the mystery solid. The story maybe felt a little long at parts, but the writing was so well crafted that I stayed involved.

I enjoyed this story for its unexpected unpredictability and its winning protagonists. The Woman in White is a great 19th-century mystery that I'd recommend to anyone looking for a thrilling, if not fast, read.

Princess Academy by Shannon Hale

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Princess Academy is sweet, simple, engaging, compelling, and interesting. This was the perfect young-adult book for me to read right now. It's full of good writing, endearing characters, and driving plot. I loved this book and was sad to see it end.

Slathbog's Gold by M.L. Forman

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Categorized as a young-adult novel, I'd place it as a middle reader book. The story followed the traditional Joseph Campbell hero format and often leaned toward the didactic side. That said, Alex was likable enough, and for a tween needing a wholesome and adventurous read, this will do the trick.

View all my reviews

Jacob T. Marley by R. William Bennett

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In Dickens's Christmas classic, Jacob T. Marley is perhaps the most important character besides Scrooge. It was interesting to read the story through Marley's eyes, especially when I could see how Marley got to be how he was.

The writing was reminiscent of Dickens's own 19th-century style, but sometimes strayed into the didactic zone. Overall, though, this book is a great support to its classic counterpart and sends a clear and uplifting message of love and redemption. I'd like to read this whenever I reread A Christmas Carol.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

How could you not love this story? (When I was reading it, I kept thinking of the characters played by Muppets, and that was actually delightfully nostalgic.) You can't help but be inspired by Scrooge's redemption and reclaimed life.

One of my favorite parts of this story is the fact that most characters in the book frankly forgive Scrooge when he seeks their love and friendship--what a beautiful reminder to be kind and forgiving always.

Something I especially enjoyed about this edition was the illustrations. This particular illustrated version is one that I look forward to reading with my family in Christmases to come.

View all my reviews

***
I made good progress in my annual goal. I finished November with six books left to read in the year. I quite enjoyed my November reading, perhaps with the minor exception of Slathbog's Gold, a book I reviewed for the bookstore. According to Goodreads I'm still one book behind my goal, so it looks like my December reading is cut out for me.

let's leave work at work, okay?

2011-11-29T22:10:00.000-08:00

I was grocery shopping in Target this evening and almost asked a fellow shopper if I could help her find anything, as if I actually worked at Target instead of Deseret Book.

True story.

a Wilson Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T20:58:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving weekend went by entirely too fast.

We had chocolate turkeys. And a regular one. Plus stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, and five pies.

We played some Dominion and lots of Bang! One time I was an outlaw and rocked it. Another game, the outlaws rocked me.

Jeremy and Nicole and Josh were here. (Remember, there are two Joshes.) Estee couldn't come, and we missed her.

She had to work. And so did I. I've never had a job that required me to work on Thanksgiving weekend. So yeah, I've been spoiled. And I'm okay with that.

But working really wasn't the worst. And sometimes, I have to do things I don't want to do. Even on Thanksgiving weekend.

But I still got lots of family and fun time in the mix, time that included some movies. Think theater movies like The Muppets. And couch movies like Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2. And don't leave out the nostalgic childhood films like A Muppet Christmas Carol.

I'm sitting here typing this, and real life looms, reminding me that, yes, there are still dirty dishes in the sink from Thanksgiving morning.

I think I'll do them tomorrow. Tonight, I'm going to soak in the last little bit of Thanksgiving weekend I have and deal with real life later. Right now, I have some serious reading to do by the fireplace. In stretchy pants. Obviously.

devoted

2011-11-23T10:30:00.000-08:00

Monday when I checked the mail, I found this waiting for me.

I was thrilled. I recently took the plunge and took out my own subscription to Cook's Illustrated, and I received this subscription bonus with serious excitement. See, here's the thing: I am devoted follower of the Test Kitchen. I don't have cable and so haven't actually ever watched America's Test Kitchen, but its companion publication, Cook's Illustrated, is everything I could hope for in a cooking magazine. Second only to my own family of cooks and bakers, Cook's Illustrated is my go-to cooking source.

And don't forget the recent gem I found, Baking Illustrated.

I bought this with birthday giftcard money, and I love it. It's my baking bible. It's these editors' job to experiment in the kitchen with things like leavening, eggs, milk-to-flour ratios, and mixing methods; their goal is to find the best, most reliable recipes. When it comes to my recent cake failures, this book is exactly what I've been looking for. I'm converted completely. I will actually hunker down on the couch expressly to read this book. No joke.

You will accurately surmise that much of the holiday baking that will be happening around here will be rooted in these publications--what else could you expect from a firm devotee? Also, please note that no part of this post was sponsored by the Test Kitchen or its affiliates, though if they happen to read this rave review I wouldn't say no to a lifetime Cook's Illustrated subscription, or better yet, a trip to the Test Kitchen in Boston.

kicking off the holidays

2011-11-21T18:19:00.000-08:00

:: Christmas bins
:: Christmas music
:: Pumpkin bread
:: Cozy fire
:: Christmas sewing
:: Mistletoe crafting
:: Rainy day
:: Homemade mac and cheese

Yes, I do set up for Christmas at Thanksgiving, and it's awesome.

where to find me today

2011-11-21T11:35:00.000-08:00

So my friend Camille asked me to guest post on her series The Heart of Life Is Good, so that's where you can find me today!

You should also check out the rest of her blog--she's pure delight all the way.

comfort food

2011-11-18T09:32:00.000-08:00

I've been battling a chest cold this week, and instead of doing anything productive, all I really want to do is plop on the couch with some cream of wheat and hot chocolate and watch some Gilmore Girls.

So that's what I'm doing this morning.

That is, until I have to go to work at 11:00.

the thing about root canals

2011-11-16T23:31:00.000-08:00

:: The worst part of a root canal is getting to the point where you need one.
:: I'd rather have a migraine than root canal pain.
:: Root canal pain registers as a 7 on a scale of 9, 9 being the most pain I've ever experienced on a scale of 10. (Follow that?)
:: The Novocain shots put my body into brief shock.
:: I start to feel claustrophobic with more than two implements in my mouth.
:: You can fight a gag reflex by keeping your eyes open, focusing on a specific spot on the ceiling, and breathing through your nose.
:: I'm willing to undergo whatever it takes to avoid another emergency root canal.
:: Even braces.
:: And yeah, braces might just happen.
:: I don't want to talk about it.

OSR: September and October 2011

2011-11-14T22:49:00.000-08:00

My reading still hasn't picked up to where it was when I was commuting, and I've accepted that. Even though it takes me longer to get through my books, I've read some really, really great ones lately (some of which won't make it onto the blog until the November OSR post).

Shanghai Girls by Lisa See

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shanghai Girls opened my eyes up to a world I didn't know much about. I found Pearl and May's Shanghai life fascinating as well as their flight from China and their entry into the United States. I didn't know much about Japan's invasion into China or about the Chinese refugees in America. I found it sad and interesting how the immigrants found ways around the system so that they could protect their families.

The relationship between Pearl and May is simple, yet still hard sometimes. They're sisters and share a bond unlike any other in their lives. At the same time, they fight jealousy and bitterness while still remaining inseparable best friends. I just love stories about sisters.

The most meaningful part of this book to me was the message that tragedy doesn't have to define your life. It's never too late to make a fresh start, and while your life may not turn out as you expected, you can still find happiness. Shanghai Girls is a great book that I'd recommend to most people.

Rocket Boys by Homer H. Hickam, Jr.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

September 2011: Rocket Boys is just as enjoyable the second time around as the first. As you turn the last page, savoring each final word, you leave not wanting for any more or less. You come away perfectly satisfied. This is a book about a boy, a father, a town, and their dreams, a book that gives you exactly what you need, even if you didn't know what you needed to begin with.

Note: My Rocket Boys review is amended from its full Goodreads version. The full version includes the review from the first time I read this book in August 2009.

Moloka'i by Alan Brennert

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was an interesting book that introduced me to a world I hadn't known much about. Not only was the insight into 19th- and 20th-century leper colonies interesting, but the character development and depth was compelling. The protagonist, Rachel, was a strong and beautiful woman whose character drove the plot and its emotion forward.

While not making it to my top-favorite lists, Moloka'i is still a well thought-out novel full of lovable characters and emotional plot lines.

Dracula by Bram Stoker

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Could there be a more perfect book to read in October? No, there isn't. Dracula was the perfect Halloween book.

Stoker creates the quintessential horror story, one built on suspense, on uncertainty, on the fantastic supernatural. Dracula introduces an eerie elegance to vampire lore, and I found myself captivated by the spookiness of it all.

Dracula combines spooky with literary finesse; it doesn't contain gratuitous gore or violence, but is rather replete with subtle and carefully crafted build-up.

To be completely honest, I loved this book. The only thing that stops me from giving it 5 stars is that it's not life-changing. Dracula just really is an excellent story, one that far surpasses modern horror stories.

View all my reviews

I'm three books, or seven percent, behind in my annual reading goal, and even though the end of the year is approaching fast, I'm holding out hope that I'll finish strong.

What have you been reading lately? Did you also read a spooky book in October? Are you on track for your 2011 reading goals?

a bookseller

2011-11-10T21:55:00.000-08:00

My official title at Deseret Book is bookseller.

I work between 25 and 30 hours a week, and throughout my shifts I do everything from dusting to stocking to involved customer service. A year and a half ago when I graduated with vast editorial aspirations you wouldn't have found me even thinking about working retail. Is that too diva? Maybe it's just that infectious college grad carpe diem.

Let's get real, being a bookseller is something that comes very naturally to me simply because I can talk books indefinitely. Sometimes, though, I wish I were on that other side of bookselling, the side with the deadlines and proofs and manuscript piles.

And here's where this indulgent post-degree monologue takes a turn: I'm okay with all of this.

I was talking to my mom this week and answered some question about work. Then she said, "Charlotte, you seem so much happier than you were a few months ago." And it's true. Contrasting my downtown Portland life with my Lake Oswego retail life, I can't believe how unsatisfied and stifled I was before. I'm so much happier now, and it shows. I'm less stressed and less anxious, more motivated and more purposeful.

So my professional life didn't take me where I thought it would. And I'm content right now in my role as bookseller. That doesn't mean that writing and editing aren't important to me, because they are important--very important. I fit them in where they're supposed to fit, which right now is a freelance gig here and there.

I can't tell you exactly why being a bookseller is working for me right now, but it is. And I'm happy.

yes, it really is Wednesday already

2011-11-09T07:50:00.000-08:00

:: Saturday I spent the day on pain meds. Josh drove me to Joann's (since the pain meds prohibited driving) so I could use my coupon. I bought supplies for four Christmas gifts for only $35--score. I was beat afterwards, though, and lazed on the couch all afternoon waiting for the meds to clear my system. Plus side, though? My tooth was feeling better--so much better--and the meds were totally worth it.

:: Sunday we stayed home from church. I was still feeling lightheaded, and Josh was still recovering from a nasty cold. I pretty much stayed in one spot all day and read my book, knitted, and napped.

:: Monday I resolved to rid our home of any and all sickliness. I cleaned the bathroom, changed the sheets, folded laundry, and made cinnamon rolls. This was also the day when Josh started a new project for his job--in Hillsboro. Translation: He went from a 90-second bike ride commute to a 60- to 80- minute car ride commute. Gross.

:: Tuesday I meant to blog and didn't. I celebrated my friend Shari's birthday with her while her husband was working on some school assignments. We went to the Olive Garden, and it was delicious. Josh hung out at home and was more or less still a commute zombie when I returned from the birthday celebrations.

:: As I've been falling asleep the past few nights, I've been brainstorming ideas for a Christmas newsletter that may or may not see fulfillment. Consequently, it's been harder to fall asleep.

:: With Josh's new commute I think I can have some serious empathy. We all know that I hated commuting.

:: I have some Goodreads updates to post. I'm really enjoying my current book, The Woman in White, by Wilkie Collins. It's different from what I expected, but in a good way.

:: I have some good Christmas projects happening around here. My dream is to finish the serious Christmas gifting by December, or at least the gifts that I have to send.

:: I woke up earlier than I really needed to today, and I'm loving it. I have time to read my scriptures, eat breakfast, and blog. Awesome.

:: I'll post a real post soon. Promise.

kicking off the weekend

2011-11-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

What better way to usher in the weekend than with an emergency root canal??

Oh yeah, I can think of a billion better ways to spend a Friday.

A billion.

about that time

2011-11-01T23:45:00.000-07:00

We had our friend Ian over for dinner and a game of Dominion, and he offered to bring dessert.

This isn't Ian. This is Josh. Obviously.

He reminded us that it's about that time, the time for Tim-Tam Slams.

This is Ian. He's Tim-Tam Slamming.

We agreed.

Obviously.

{Tim-Tam Slams}

Tim-Tams, a cookie often found at Target

hot chocolate

Take a Tim-Tam and take small bites out of opposite corners. Dip one corner into the hot chocolate and suck. As soon as you taste the hot chocolate, put the whole cookie into your mouth before it completely dissolves. There shouldn't be the slightest crunch. Allow the sugar rush to wash over you in chocolately, warm goodness. Repeat.

Oh, November, it's good to have you back. We'll have many more Tim-Tam Slam sessions, I can assure you.

halloween

2011-10-31T22:09:00.000-07:00

Homemade chili
Cornbread
Caramel apple dip
Fun friends
Holiday t-shirts
Modern Family Halloween episode
Chocolate cream pie
A punctuated pumpkin
And one that's more carved than it is pumpkin

Happy Halloween!

year one

2011-10-28T21:17:00.000-07:00

We spent our first anniversary in central Oregon in a cute townhome our friends let us borrow. Can you believe it's been a year since I was blogging about this? And this? And this? I hardly can. All month I've been thinking back to one year ago, and I've been filled with happy, happy memories. Our wedding day was the beginning of so much for us; it was a beautiful day, one that I look back on with fondness and yet one that I wouldn't want to go back to because that would mean leaving where I am now.

Taken at Eagle Crest 10.22.11. We got some non-goofy ones, but I really just love this one.

One year of marriage is hardly something to brag about, but regardless, it's changed me, a change that affects me in the ways I most need it, a change that is the best change, even when it's hard. I know more about stepping outside of myself to see a bigger or different picture. I'm learning that there's no such thing as the perfect wife or husband. I'm practicing how to give both Josh and myself the benefit of the doubt. I'm increasingly more grateful that this marriage is forever, because that means that I don't have to get it right immediately. Really, I have forever to get it right.

No one has a manual for the perfect marriage. Sure, you can reference self-help books, attend classes, and even hearken to prophetic guidance, but the fact is, marriage is a series of trials and errors, a risk that will pay off through listening, loving, and learning. If you ask me how I've adjusted to marriage after one year, I'll say that I take it one happy moment, one frustrated moment, one disagreement, one apology, one hand-hold, one minute step at a time. And I'm happy exactly where we are, just as we are.

So yeah, I'll always look at our wedding day with unabashed love and fondness.

But I'd so much rather be here, in my pajamas, enjoying a glass of sparkling grape juice and getting ready for some serious Modern Family–watching with my husband of one year.

We are more than ready to embark on year two.

the Oregon experience

2011-10-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

When Rachelle came to visit I wanted to give her a thorough Oregon experience, even though my Oregon experience is still relatively new. We started off with a day in Portland, a day that included the Thai Peacock, Powell's, and Cupcake Jones.

One night we went to Deschutes Brewery for dinner, and another night we hit up Nicholas's.

One day when I had to work, Rachelle and Karen went to the outlets, and I was oh so jealous.

Then we went to the coast, and seriously, I couldn't have dreamed of better weather. First we stopped at the Tillamook Cheese Factory (which was a first visit for me too).

We took the self-guided tour, posed in the cow heads, and ate the best grilled cheese sandwiches we'd ever had along with the best milkshakes we'd ever had.

Are you surprised that I had to document the punctuation errors on Tillamook signage?

Then we made our way to Rockaway Beach, and parked at this cute Catholic church. The beach was right there just waiting for us.

The skies were clear, the breeze cool but not cold, the air briny and crisp.

In attempting a far-off ocean picture, a sneaky wave caught me off guard.

The ocean wasn't so far off then. In fact, the ocean was in my pant legs.

After walking around for a bit, we settled down on our blanket and beach chairs. I read, Rachelle people-watched, and we both napped at some point. The wind started getting colder, and we were glad we brought warm clothes.

At one point the fire department, the police, the Coast Guard, and the sheriff all came to the beach in response to a lost surfer. We saw rescue boats out on the water, men scanning the horizon with binoculars, and guys in ATVs cruising down the beach. Thankfully they found the surfer, and I'm not entirely sure what the full story was, but it was exciting nonetheless.

We filled our non-adventure time with The Sing-Off, crepes, rockclimbing, and shopping. I'm so glad that Rachelle could come out to visit, and we had such a great time.

I love indulging in Oregon. And I love doing it with one of my best friends. I hope you had a full Oregon experience, Rachelle!

Anyone else up for the full Oregon experience? Though, please give me some recovery time before taking me up on that offer. I'm exhausted.

a styled break-in

2011-10-24T16:03:00.000-07:00

Imagine me:

:: Greeting Rachelle at the airport in my new favorite outfit, a plaid wool skirt (that I sewed myself) with a simple mustard cardigan

:: Automatically locking the car door because that's how programmed I am now

:: Realizing that I locked my doors with the keys still in the ignition and the car still running

:: Relieved that I remembered to pop the trunk before locking the doors

:: Thinking that I can probably break into the car through the trunk--Nancy Drew does it all the time

:: Climbing into my trunk still wearing the cute skirt

:: Disregarding the weird looks I'm getting from fellow airport-goers

:: Calling Josh for help on figuring out the trunk break-in strategy while still sitting in the trunk

:: Finding the tabs that push the back seat down

:: Crawling through the trunk and into the car as gracefully as possible, trying hard not to flash the other airport drivers

:: Turning off the car, unlocking the doors, and exiting the car through the doors and not the trunk

:: Feeling awesome because I just pulled a Nancy Drew

Did you imagine all that? Good. Because it wasn't made up. That really happened. And it was probably one of the funniest things I've ever done.

I'm back!

2011-10-23T21:29:00.000-07:00

Oh, readers, I feel like it's been forever. The past two weeks have had me in a whirlwind of happenings, leaving me in a current state of exhaustion and home-messiness, not to mention the 700 unread blog posts in my Google Reader (can you see that some blog-reading simplification is needed here?).

I have so much to tell you. I want to tell you about Rachelle's week-long visit, the perfect weather for a day-trip to the coast, Cupcake Jones, my part-time bookstore job, the beautiful autumn we've been having, my first truly aesthetically pleasing cake, Dracula being the perfect October book, and our first wedding anniversary.

For now I'll satiate your reader thirst (because I know you've been compulsively checking for a new post on this blog--right? Right?) with this month's 12-on-12. The pictures really were taken on the 12th; I honestly just didn't have time for putting the grid together and blogging it until today.

01. A clean stovetop and kitchen
02. An organized magazine basket
03. Cute flower panels hung above the laundry closet (I've had those plaques for almost a year and hadn't hung them up till now)
04. Some freelance writing research
05. A trimmed pattern for a fall dress
06. The cute wall-art I bought at Homegoods using Shoppers' Math
07. The fall dress pattern all cut out, ready to be sewn
08. Changing leaves by Costco
09. Work--does anyone else find the Twilight-esque covers for works of classic literature a little off-putting? I mean, we talking Jane Austen here. Come on.
10. A mint truffle with some Dracula in the airport waiting area
11. The inside of my trunk (this deserves its own blog post entirely and involves a resourceful Nancy-Drew-like break-in into my car while wearing a skirt)
12. I thought I had 12 photos at this point in the evening and didn't--obviously.

I've had a fun few weeks, but honestly, I can't wait to find normalcy again. Tomorrow my priority plans involve cleaning the bathroom and folding laundry, and I'm positively giddy about it.

two words

2011-10-17T22:53:00.000-07:00

Squeaky cheese.

things you never thought you'd hear me say

2011-10-16T00:38:00.000-07:00

At Nicholas's Lebanese Restaurant in downtown Portland with Karen, Josh, and Rachelle: "Oh, this hummus is my favorite!"

PS--My best friend Rachelle is visiting me, and it's been a blast. I still have a few days of quasi-vacation and will resume regular blogging mid-week, including my 12-on-12 grid!

needed clarification

2011-10-11T19:53:00.000-07:00

In light of recent political dialogue, let me set a few things straight.

I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints--I am a Christian. I believe that through Christ's grace--and only through His grace--are we redeemed from our sins. I believe that Jesus Christ Himself restored His church through the Prophet Joseph Smith and that we have prophets and apostles today who receive revelation from God.

I believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God, that He both lived and died for me, that through His atonement I am able to return and live with Him and His Father someday. My relationship with my Savior is what defines me.

I am a Mormon.

I am a Christian.

shoppers' math, or a lively discussion about gift cards

2011-10-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by saying that Josh hates shoppers' math. In fact, as I was writing this we had a heated debate about it. That's how much he hates it.

My mom taught me shoppers' math growing up, and it's a hard mathematical field to explain; you learn best from observation. Shoppers' math involves not only numbers and percentages but also factors like needs-versus-wants, frugality, on-hand cash, and gift cards. Let me use today's errand trip to demonstrate to you shoppers' math.

I've been needing a new pair of professional shoes. My Danskos are getting a little ratty, and while I have several pairs of dress heels, I'm lacking a good pair of sophisticated, professional footwear. I found a style of loafer I like and put it in my mind to find a good deal.

Professional loafers: needed purchase

For my birthday my grandpa gave me a gift card to TJ Maxx (which can also be used at Homegoods). Gift cards present a whole new factor into the shoppers' math equation: gift cards are presents, and in my view, should be used to buy something you really, really want, something you wouldn't normally buy for yourself, or both. Yes, it's money, but it's in a different category. (But even that's not a hard-and-fast rule. Were I to receive a gift card to Target and also had no money to grocery shop, I would feel great about using that gift to support my family.)

Today I decided to check out JC Penney's current sale, with 50- to 70-percent markdowns. I found a darling pair of platform, heeled loafers for 50-percent off of their regular price and put them on hold while I checked out the selection at TJ Maxx.*

Their selection wasn't great. So I perused and found a pair of stretchy pants to use for rock climbing.

Stretchy rock-climbing pants: needed purchase, but something I might talk myself out of

Then I headed to Homegoods, where my shopping experience was overwhelmed by my many options. What did I want to spend my gift card on? Kitchen gadgets? Eight-inch cake pans? Wall art? Halloween decor? Or did I want to put it toward a larger purchase of a side table or nightstand? Because I still had a decent amount of money left on my gift card from the stretchy pants purchase, I browsed for things that caught my eye. (And if nothing caught my eye, I would have been content to leave without buying anything. Don't spend money, gifted or otherwise, just for the sake of spending it.)

I decided on purchasing a silicon spoon, a large glass liquid measure, an orange ceramic pie plate, and a cute piece of wall art.. After I exhausted my gift card, I ended up spending $7.00 out of my bank account.

Silicon spoon: needed purchase, but something I might rationalize not needing

Large glass liquid measure: needed purchase, something I would probably buy without a gift card

Pie plate: wanted purchase

Wall art: wanted purchase

Back to JC Penney's. Since I didn't find a cuter and/or cheaper pair of loafers at TJ's, I decided to go back and buy the pair I'd put on hold at the mall. I had a lingering $20 bill in my wallet that I hadn't used in a few weeks and decided to offset the amount of money put on my debit card by using the cash (Josh really hates that facet of shoppers' math).

To sum up my shopping trip, I bought one item that I needed, a few items that I needed but not immediately, and a couple of items that I didn't need but really wanted, with $20 coming out of my wallet, and less than $30 coming out of my bank account--a pretty thorough and versatile trip, in my opinion.

Through Josh's lens, money is money, regardless of its form, and a gift card is no reason to splurge when you otherwise wouldn't. Through my approach, a gift card is inherently a good reason to buy something you wouldn't (or wouldn't be able to) normally. When I use gift cards in my shoppers' math equations, I subconsciously put myself on a longer frugality leash, like part of the gift card is the gift of not worrying so much about how you spend your money.

What camp are you in? And aren't you glad that shoppers' math helped me to buy these?

*A note about sales: Even though an item may be a million percent off, the money you spend on it is still real. Don't buy something just because it's a billion percent off. Factor in your needs, wants, and budget, as well. In this case, I had already decided that I needed a new pair of professional shoes, and I wanted a good quality shoe. So even though the shoes were half off, I can't overlook the fact that I'm still spending real money. Sometimes you still shouldn't buy something even if it is on sale. I have come to that bitter conclusion many times.

spooky to-do list

2011-10-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

To-do before Halloween:

:: read Dracula with Miranda (remember my scary book from last year?)
:: go to a corn maze and maybe even a haunted house
:: carve a pumpkin
:: watch Wait Until Dark, Sixth Sense, What Lies Beneath, The Others, and maybe even The Ring
:: attend the ward Halloween party

{via} on Pinterest (obviously)

I am very excited for the spooking that's going to be going on here at the Wilsons'.

legitimate, sort of

2011-10-07T17:22:00.000-07:00

At the behest of my darling sister-in-law, I present you documentation of the first official Wilson family climbing night. If we're going to climb with Nicole and Josh Snow, a.k.a. climbers extraordinaire, we needed to establish some semblance of climbing regularity and legitimately.

The rock gym where I've been a few times with Karen was having a screaming deal on rock-climbing passes, and Josh and I decided to commit and buy some. Our commitment furthered when we invested in legitimate climbing gear (and seriously, it's an investment). We bought shoes for Josh (Karen let me have her too-small-for-her pair) and harnesses.

So Thursday night after dinner at Jimmy John's we Wilsons, along with our friend Ian, headed over to Club Sport where we tested out our new gear and made our first steps toward becoming rock climbers. (Yeah, you heard me right--I'm calling myself a rock climber.) I'm even belay-certified now. I know.

The boys loved being photographed for the blog. Obviously.

This time rock climbing I worked more on my pivots and leg work. (Take it from a seasoned climbing novice--get that, a seasoned novice?--the work should come from the legs and hips.) We climbed for two and a half hours and were completely beat by the end of it. We have plans for many more climbing excursions, and I'm looking forward to getting better and more confident in my ability.

And really, how could I turn down a sport in which you wear stretchy pants?

a birthday cake for Grandma

2011-10-06T16:20:00.000-07:00

My late grandmother's birthday was yesterday, and in proper Petersen-clan form, I baked a cake in her honor. I tried a new recipe taken from my new book (which I'm in love with), and I was excited to try more cake baking.

It didn't turn out great.

Obviously.

So instead of eating cake to page homage to my grandma, I tossed one straight into the trash. I couldn't even convince myself to have a piece for breakfast.

Grandma knew when to throw a cake, and hell, I do too.

**Edit: I'm sure the problem has more to do with my baking skill than it does the recipe out of the baking bible. Baking Illustrated is super, super awesome.**

domination

2011-10-04T22:22:00.000-07:00

Remember the time when I successfully installed an invisible zipper on the first try without crying even once (unlike my first experience with an invisible zipper)?

Because I do, and it feels awesome.

a week in snapshots

2011-09-30T22:42:00.000-07:00

A treat in the washer--better than finding cash in your coat? I can't decide.

Shattered eyeshadow--sad, sad, sad

Investing in mini loaf pans to optimize pumpkin bread baking--obviously

My name in the acknowledgments of a book I worked on at the Maxwell Institute--awesome. I feel like a secret celebrity at my new job. But really, I'm sure I'm the only one who feels that way.

Josh stocked up on more wooden models, especially since it looks like Michael's isn't going to stock them anymore.

Krylon Glitter Blast spray paint + fake pumpkins--you see where I'm going with this? I knew you'd love it too.

My favorite vignette in the home currently--I loved doing the embroidery projects (the reading mudflap image was Josh's idea, actually), and I sustained several hot glue burns while assembling the wreath. The Trick-or-Treat art was a birthday present from my mother. I love it all. (PS--Did you notice the hint of teal ribbon I used to finish the inside of the wreath? I love that final touch. And attn: Allison: please note my beloved Asher Lev copy peeking out from under Trick-or-Treat frame. )

This weekend I'm going to settle in to listen to General Conference, the semiannual meeting where we get to hear from our prophet. Thought that prophets existed only for the Bible? Think again, and be really glad you did. I know I am.

I hope your week was as good as mine and that your weekend is delightful!

what I thought when my husband called me a book snob

2011-09-29T21:12:00.000-07:00

I read this article the other day, and it gave me a lot to think about. You see, a few weeks ago Josh and I were at Powell's with one of our friends. This friend asked me what I thought of a particular author, and I promptly proceeded to vilify this writer's work. Josh rolled his eyes and said, "Charlotte, stop being such a book snob."

At first I was affronted, because I like to consider myself a pretty objective reader. I'll typically give any book a chance, and then I feel like I have the right to hate it if I want. I also think that I've read enough books of all kinds to be able to assess the writing quality of a book, good or bad. Somehow I feel like I've earned that right through my reading and schooling.

Then I thought that maybe I lashed out against this particular author a little too harshly. Not that I'm rethinking any of my opinions, because really, I loathe this author's work and its popularity, but I should rethink how I express some of these opinions. So maybe, in some way I am a book snob.

So here's the thing, I have the right to like or dislike anything I want, especially if I give it a fair try, and everyone else has that same prerogative. I may or may not have a secret list of books that I use to assess a reader's literary acumen (you know, those books that if they don't like or dislike it as much as I do I judge them), but at the heart of it, I love people who read for the love of reading, even if that means they don't love the same books I do.

So the next time someone asks me about an author I have distaste for, I'll swallow the judgment fighting to break through and express my opinion in a way that isn't snobby. I'll make sure that I value my friend's opinion better and not belittle his thoughts or assessments. When it comes down to it I'd rather be a bibliophile who loves to talk books than a snob who seeks to sneer at them.

And no, I won't tell you the author I disparaged.

launch party

2011-09-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Remember that project I've alluded to several times with no seeming follow-through? Well, get ready readers, because today I'm launching my new website: Wilson Tutoring (wilsontutoring.net).

When I started job searching again, I felt a marked lack of enthusiasm for the endeavor. Then this thought started taking shape in my mind, a thought that said, "You don't have to make FedEx labels again, Charlotte. You can be the boss." And here we are.

I've started a small tutoring business catering to middle and high school students in the Wilsonville–West Linn area. I specialize in English literature, writing, and grammar. (Obviously.) I can help students through their classwork, supply curriculum supplementary to the classroom experience, help prep them for college entrance exams, and guide them through the rigorous process of college applications.

My philosophy focuses on the individual experience of the student. I want the students I tutor to find satisfaction in their work and maybe to even enjoy it!

I had quite a time figuring out the website (which involved moving from free hosting with a design I liked to paid hosting with a less-than-friendly design software--good hell), but it does its job by clearly outlining my services and pricing. (Just don't let the banner at the top bother you . . . even though it drives me bonkers).

If you're in the Wilsonville area and need a tutor for your child, please give me a call. I'd love to discuss your student's needs to help him or her perform well.

When I'm not tutoring, you can find me at my new part-time job here. Sure beats FedEx labels, huh?

an incentive

2011-09-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got cajoled into going on a hike in Ecola State Park near the coast that ended up being very muddy and not very non-hiker friendly.

So on our way back into town, I rewarded myself with some trendy shoes.

Obviously.

much belated proof

2011-09-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

Remember when we got in that accident at the New Year? We came away without a scratch, but our poor car didn't.

We've been driving around with our car having a seriously battered bumper, and here's the thing: we aren't going to fix it. It would cost thousands of dollars to remedy this, and we don't want to claim cosmetic damage on our insurance. So yeah, the maiming stays.

Last night we were talking about it, and Josh concluded that since no mechanical damage was done to the car in the accident, that really, all we sustained was a bad scratch.

Whatever makes us feel better, right?

early week musings

2011-09-20T16:45:00.000-07:00

:: I'm afraid that because I don't have dedicated reading time each day I'm one book behind on reaching my yearly goal of 45 books (which I upped when I was several books ahead and when I planned on commuting everyday for forever). I would never ever ask for the commute back, so perhaps I'll have to set aside specific times for reading to catch up.

:: How is it that Steve Carel, while being nominated for an Emmy every year since being on The Office, never won? And now he's off the show and will never win an Emmy for the brilliantly comedic Michael Scott.

:: I'm in the process of building a website for a semi-secret project that I will hopefully reveal this week. The thing is that website-building is the worst, and I hate it.

:: I love my mornings now. I read my scriptures while eating breakfast, and I've really started to study and ponder them. I don't have a set time for how long or how much I read, so I read however long I feel like reading, and sometimes I switch it up with a General Conference talk or two.

:: With the first day of fall coming up this week, I plan on making pumpkin bread to inaugurate the season. I'm an autumn loyalist and hold zero qualms about summer's yearly exit.

:: All of my favorite shows (excepting Bones, which doesn't premier until November) premier their new seasons this week. I can't wait for new episodes of 30 Rock, The Office, and my newest favorite sitcom, Modern Family. I just love this time of year.

on duty

2011-09-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

This weekend Josh and I are babysitting for a family in the ward while the mom and dad go to Utah for the BYU vs. U of U football game. My shift started at 8:00 this morning, and I just now made it to nap time. Deep breath.

I can pretty much guarantee that by tomorrow afternoon when the grandmother comes to relieve us, we'll be beat. Tonight, though, you can count on cookie-baking (by request of the nine-year-old in the house) and toenail painting.

See you after the weekend—I hope your weekend is splendid!

12 of 12: september 2011

2011-09-13T08:41:00.000-07:00

01. The messy kitchen with messy dishes (Josh did them by the time I got home, though--good man)

02. The parking pass we need on our car for the repaving going on in the apartment complex

03. Sorting Saturday's mail at my temp job

04. Making a new pot of coffee (my experience is so limited in this area)

05. Mapping out my week

06. The patterns I've been mulling over

07. Some good down-time reading

08. My new glasses (the last time I got new glasses I was a senior in high school--what do you think?)

09. The pile of doorway shoes--heavens

10. Trimming patterns

11. Polishing off our newest favorite series (just trust me on this one--it's one of the most intelligent and compelling shows I've seen)

12. Checking to make sure that we parked in the correct alternate parking lot, because our section is getting paved next

September 12 really took me by surprise this month! Thankfully I remembered in time to pack my camera in my purse before heading out for the day. And in other news, we woke up to 60-degree weather and clouds, and I love it. I know that five months ago I was dying for some sun, but now I'm ready for cooler temperatures and overcast skies.

Go here to learn more about 12-of-12 and link up your grids!

fall sewing

2011-09-12T14:27:00.000-07:00

For the record, this is the fourth post I've started today. The first three just weren't doing it for me.

I've been dreaming of sewing a few fall pieces for myself. Jewel tones have been flitting around my imagination, combined with visions of heavy fabric and pretty wool. (With that picture in mind, aren't you ready for fall too?) I was inspired a bit by the Fall Palette Challenge on one of my favorite sewing blogs, though I won't be posting on any of the forums.

Now, I'm thinking that these projects will very likely (read: most definitely) take all of the season for me to complete, if even I finish all of them. Regardless, here are the patterns I'm planning:

Simplicity 2758: I'd like to sew both the blouse with the ruffled three-quarter sleeve and the skirt with the pockets and large center pleat (versions B and E). I have some pretty ivory shirting for the blouse and the prettiest wool ever for the skirt. This light gray plaid wool was a splurge, and I'm head-over-heels in love with it.

Simplicity 3673: I'm thinking the full version of the jumper. For this one, I bought some beautiful gold fabric with a pretty drape.

And finally, Vogue 8511: Back in July I bought a few yards of precut charcoal wool for a screaming deal. I've been hoarding it for months trying to find the perfect pattern for it. I entertained McCall's 5927 (the short-sleeved, detailed neckline version) and McCall's 2401 (the square neck version) for a few weeks and just now settled on the Vogue style.

So, that's four pieces. Sometimes I hesitate in buying pretty fabric for pretty projects when I still feel like a sewing novice. Seriously, sometimes when I topstitch, the lines and curves aren't smooth, and my zippers still need so much work. Remember just a month ago when I sewed the zipper through the entire garment twice?? I do. But here's the thing, one of the few pieces of advice I can offer as novice seamstress: make things you like. Otherwise, you won't want to make anything ever.

Now I have to get to pattern trimming, people. I have lots to do. Obviously.

PS--Today is the 12th, so take out your cameras, even if half of your day is gone already! I know--it sneaked up on me too.

14 years old, eighth grade

2011-09-11T11:53:00.000-07:00

I was 14 years old, in eighth grade. At first I thought it was an accident. Then we started watching the news coverage, and terrorism entered my life for the first time. All day long, in almost every class, we watched the news: the same videos, the same commentary, the same audio reels of screaming Americans, over and over and over.

{via}

Today I pray for unity, and I pray for humility. I thank my God for this gospel and for a country that allows me the freedom to live it. I pray for those who fight and die for my home. I believe in America, I believe in freedom, and I believe in goodness.

my week in review

2011-09-09T14:55:00.000-07:00

{via}

:: Monday we did nothing. And loved it. Oh wait, we hung out with our friends Craig, Shilah, and John. It was lovely.

:: I started a five-day temp job on Wednesday. It's in a much closer location, and parking is free. While it's a thoroughly boring job, my supervisor gave me express permission to do whatever I want to fill the time. Hello, Pinning, blog reading, and book reading.

:: This job is two minutes away from the temple, so one day for lunch I ate my sandwich on the temple grounds. It was lovely.

:: I finally got my birthday package from the family. We've had quite the postal service fiasco: They tried to deliver it, didn't get a signature, and took it back to the post office without leaving a message in my box telling me so. So for a week I've been bugging my complex office and the mailman trying to find my package when really it was at the post office the whole time. The package was worth the frustration, however; I'm talking wedding photo book, people. And a cake plate and dome.

:: I went to Joann's during my lunch today and bought six patterns on sale. (Here's the thing: You buy sewing patterns only when they're on sale. I'm talking $1-4 sale, here.) I found some pretty fabric for a good deal but the cutting line was so long I had to duck out before they called my number.

:: No joke, I started planning my Christmas gifts. I want to make some and buy some, and I want to start now so December doesn't catch me off guard. This is the first time I've had this much holiday foresight, and I'm hoping it sticks.

:: I'm ready to decorate for fall and Halloween, and I'm thrilled about it.

:: I have a few autumn clothes I'd like to sew, but we'll play it by ear. In my head, though, all my ideas turn out perfectly darling.

not an auspicious beginning

2011-09-08T16:06:00.000-07:00

My blow-dryer wouldn't turn on this morning. And my hair was already wet and already had product in it. There is really no way that I could pull off the wet-hair look with my short hair, so I was close to a beauty panic. You see, for my whole life, whenever my blow-dryer quits, I've always been able to borrow my mom's, my sister's, or my roommates'. Well Josh doesn't have a blow-dryer, so I was left floundering.

I managed to find an open Albertson's where I bought the cheapest blow-dryer I could find and resolved to always have two blow-dryers on hand. Because you never know when your nice one will call it quits and leave you with wet shower hair half an hour before you have to leave for your under-paying five-day temp job.

Operation Superhuman Reader: August 2011

2011-09-07T09:19:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that I really read only three books last month? Eliminating my daily commute to Portland seriously affected my reading groove (not that I'm begging for my commute back--heavens, no). And really, the hold-up here came in finishing East of Eden. That books affects me so deeply that I have a hard time reading anything afterward. Sadly the book I chose to follow East of Eden wasn't great, and the book I started after that was so poorly written I couldn't bring myself to finish it.

East of Eden by John Steinbeck

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book changes me—it reaches down past my heart and grips my soul. Whenever I reread it I’m a different person from the last time I finished, and so each time I read it I change differently. East of Eden encompasses so much, and I feel so satisfied every time I finish. This is the kind of book where when characters meet death (and being an epic novel, death is a very natural companion) I feel like I need to close the book and hold off continuing for just a little while, allowing pause to process and even mourn. Each of the characters is so full and developed that they teach us about family, money, heartbreak, success, failure, devotion, and fulfillment. Steinbeck's characters—Samuel, Lee, Adam, Charles, Cal, Aron, Abra, and arguably Cathy—are beautifully human, human in the way that celebrates life and opens up potential.

This time reading it, I saw more in the characters, saw more of their complexities and intentions. Steinbeck explores the extremes of good and evil, reminding us that the seeds of both lie within each of us. We can’t deny the bad, and when we try we wind up living an unsatisfactory half-life. Through Cal and Aron primarily, we learn that we first must accept that badness is in us and only then can we choose to overcome it. Choosing against evil is what truly leads men and women to goodness and purity.

East of Eden is all about choosing who you become, regardless of your parentage or surroundings. Today I left this book feeling in myself vast potential for both great depravity and great godliness, realizing that what I become is my choice.

But the Hebrew word, the word timshel—“Thou mayest”—that gives a choice. It might be the most important word in the world. That says the way is open. That throws it right back on man. For if “Thou mayest”—it is also true that “Thou mayest not.” . . . Why, that makes a man great, that gives him stature with the gods, for in his weakness and his filth and his murder of his brother he has still the great choice. He can choose his course and fight it through and win. (p. 301–302)

Steinbeck had declared East of Eden his magnum opus, and I couldn’t agree more.

The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Aside from the trite phrases and iffy writing, I spent most of the book so frustrated with the entire premise. I had such a hard time with David keeping such a secret—continually perpetuating such a devastating lie—that I had little sympathy for him. I didn't like Norah too well, and I blame that more on the lie from which this story derives its momentum.

The solution seemed so simple, and I grew tired of the book's unhappiness. While the emotion and discontent of the story shouldn't feel contrived, the writing made it so for me. I also didn't like or care about what happened to the characters. I did like Phoebe, but I wish we could have seen things through her eyes instead of just through Caroline's. The poignancy of her role seemed diminished by her removal from the plot.

Ultimately this is a book that tries to be deep and isn't. The potential was there, but in the end unfulfilled.

How I Planned Your Wedding by Susan Wiggs

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a light read that required little to no processing. It's a fun recounting of how one woman planned her dream wedding with her mother. And even though Elizabeth and her mother are best friends, they still ran into their wedding hang-ups. This book would be especially good for brides-to-be, because it gives many helpful hints for wedding planning that you might not have thought of before. (I did cough when I read that her wedding budget was $20,000. Good heavens.)

Really, though, this book made me so grateful for my own wedding. It was beautiful, and I wouldn't have changed a thing. If you need a light, easy read, give this one a shot.

***
So there you have it: three books in all of August. I told you things have been funky around here. You'll be happy to know I'm already on my second book of September, though, so this funk is well on its way out. I've been enjoying my free time, knowing it won't last forever. Riding out this funk seems to be the best option right now, so I'm filling my days with domestic productivity, some socializing, and a few indulgences. I have a good feeling about September, book-wise and life-wise.

no apologies, but maybe a little

2011-09-04T21:40:00.000-07:00

I've been in a serious blogging funk, guys. I feel like since I've been reeling in redefining my work life I've completely lost my grasp on blogging. It's weird. And I don't like it. So I'm sorry.

This weekend we stole away to the coast for a couple days with Jeff and Karen. We ate crepes and M&Ms and read on the beach. We watched Stardust and played bocce ball. We drove down to Rockaway to see our friends who were also vacationing at the coast. And I didn't take a single picture. Part of me isn't sorry, because it's my blog, and if I don't want to take pictures I don't have to. But then, I am a little sorry, because I just want to find a new normal, and maybe taking pictures would help me get there.

If you want to know a little bit more about what my days have looked like, think Alias, laundry, InDesign, long lunches with an awesome friend, two movies in one day (like, movies-in-the-theater movies), and rock climbing again. Think lots of brainstorming for an income idea that could be bomb, an idea that I love and am simultaneously scared of. Think snuggling and finding new favorite TV shows.

Okay, here's a picture. I took it just now. We got home from the coast and needed brownies. So I made some.

I hope your long weekend (for those of you that have one) is lovely. I'm sure ours will be. And thanks for bearing with me while I work my way out of this funk. You're the best.

hello, September!

2011-09-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

Part of me can't believe the summer months are over, and the other part of me is oh so ready for fall. I've felt nostalgia pull at my heartstrings a bit this week knowing that all my siblings are back in school, because I love back-to-school season. But just because I'm not in school anymore doesn't mean that I have to completely miss out on back-to-school-ness.

And what better way to celebrate back-to-school season than by swooning over these mugs (yes, the mugs) that Josh gave me for my birthday (with accompanying plates!).

Seriously, could there be a better way to brush up on usage and grammar??

Happy back-to-school week(s), everyone! I hope that you can enjoy it, even if you're like me and don't go to school anymore.

the birthday, round 24

2011-08-30T18:26:00.000-07:00

The morning of my birthday I ate my a bowl of my birthday cereal Froot Loops and settled down to watch more of season seven of 24, and get this: I watched the 24th episode of 24 on my 24th birthday. Unplanned. If that isn't a good harbinger for a birthday I don't know what is.

I did something adventurous: rock-climbing with Karen and our cute friend Marie.

I know, it's like you don't even know me anymore.

I ate delicious food. For dinner we went to our favorite restaurant, Manzana's, and got rotisserie chicken sandwiches to-go (with extras of their to-die-for chicken gravy).

And then we ate them at a park.

Then Josh gave me one of my presents, Sof-Bocce ball. We played, and I won. Obviously. I mean, it was my birthday.

I Skyped my family after we got back, and we had a good time conversing with them via video chat.

The next day I made two birthday cakes: my traditional yellow cake with pink fluffy frosting, and this chocolate peanut-butter cake. Would you believe me if I admitted that I forgot to take pictures again? I know. I guess that means I'll just have to make more cake so I can photograph it, right?

My birthday cake from 2009, incidentally the last birthday cake my grandma made for me. That cake is only two layers, guys. It's my dream to bake high cake layers.

We had several of our friends over at Jeff and Karen's for a little party, and it was lots and lots of fun.

For my entire birthday weekend I felt loved and special, exactly how you're supposed to feel on your birthday.

So far, 24 is a pretty good place to be.

DisneyLand highlights and other noteable mentions

2011-08-25T16:09:00.000-07:00

We spent three full days at DisneyLand and took the parks by storm.

:: I ate pavement before I even stepped foot inside the park and doctored my knees and hands with Band-Aids and Neosporin religiously throughout our stay. Now I have another three-and-a-half-inch cosmic bruise.

:: We waited in lots of lines. (Isn't that a so-cute picture of Estee and Jeremy?)

:: But it was so worth it, because we got to ride lots of rides like Indiana Jones, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Grizzly Rapids.

:: We rode roller coasters like Space Mountain, Thunder Mountain, and California Screamin'.

:: We even had a couple of character run-ins, like Jeremy's with Brer Bear. (Um, terrifying. This encounter had us all in fits of laughter.)

:: We also ate a lot. Like, a lot. I'm talking deep-fried Monte Cristos here. Heavens. And don't forget the turkey legs.

:: Oh yeah, and the ice cream for dinner.

:: After riding Star Tours eight times (I joined him for only three times), Josh customized his own light saber.

:: My top-three favorite rides are the Hollywood Tower of Terror (I was surprised too), Thunder Mountain, and Grizzly Rapids.

:: I really like this picture of Josh and Nicole.

:: Can I just say how impressed I am with the overall cleanliness of DisneyLand? Because I am. I wasn't even grossed out in the bathrooms.

:: We came home yesterday with sore feet and smelly clothes, and we were oh so glad that we got to spend this time with our family in the best amusement park ever.

:: Really, I'm not a big amusement park kind of girl, but DisneyLand proves the exception. So if you're like me when it comes to lines and rides and crowds (meaning you almost always avoid them), give Disney parks a shot, because they're awesome. I mean, I even liked the roller coaster that threw me upside down. I know. I had a blast, readers. So. much. fun.

:: You should check out Estee's recap of the trip. And don't forget to watch the video. Seriously, watch the video.

the airport bag

2011-08-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

By the time this posts, I'll be in California ready to soak in the rays and the magic of Disney Land with the Wilsons. As I'm writing this I have about four and a half hours before I have to wake up to go to the airport, so most of my packing and preparation happened tonight.

When I travel I make sure that my carry-on is replete with satisfactory entertainment. Remember when I forgot to bring the second book to work? Same principle. Thus, my airport bag contains two books, two embroidery projects, and one iPod. For a two- to three-hour flight. I'm totally ready.

some miscellany

2011-08-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

:: Right now I'm re-watching season seven of 24, and it reminds me forcibly of when I watched it for the first time with Emily. One of the early villains is General Juma, an African warlord. He's terrifying. One time Emily and I postulated about how horrifying it would be to find Juma under your bed. A couple days later Emily presented me with the Juma Cube, a set of images of Juma that Emily printed out and assembled into a 3D cube. This way, Juma really could be under my bed. Every time I think about the Juma Cube I laugh. It's in Colorado now, and as far as I know is still intact. I wish I had a picture to show you.

:: When we were in Colorado last month Sarah surreptitiously reentered her name in my phone to Bruno Mars (I find all his music inane). I kept it that way and laugh every time she calls or texts. And speaking of Sarah, she started a blog too! You should definitely check it out.

:: I was online checking the TSA regulations for what's allowed in a carry-on because I want to take some embroidery with me tomorrow. They actually specify meat cleavers as an item prohibited in a carry-on. Meat cleavers. And sabers. My embroidery scissors, though, are a go.

knowing when to call it a day

2011-08-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

I knew it was time to put the sewing machine away for the night when I sewed the zipper through the entire dress twice.

Regardless, I like how this project is turning out. Just call this a minor setback.

I'll tackle it tomorrow.

the ultimate setup

2011-08-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

Pretty much this is the setup I've been enjoying every afternoon all week. Not pictured is the television in front of my dining-table-turned-sewing-table, so I've been polishing off season seven of Gilmore Girls and the movie Mansfield Park.

Since becoming unemployed my computer time has reduced to a mere fraction of what it used to be, resulting in over 200 unread blog posts in my Google Reader and no pinning for days. This computer break is kind of nice, really. When I hit the job search hard again, though, I'll inevitably spend more time on the computer and will hopefully return to blogging regularly and commenting and pinning.

And when I hit the job search hard, I'll have to confront the looming threat of the professional life crisis that's been hovering over my mind and emotions, the crisis that will force me to define what I want and what I'm going to do, the crisis that will very likely compel me to take some risks. But for today, I'll ignore the crisis cloud and transform the dining table into a sewing table and continue watching Downton Abbey on Netflix.

12 of 12: august 2011

2011-08-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

I thought it was neat that this month's 12-of-12 happened to fall on my last day of work. This week has been full of many last-things, and it was relieving to finally be finished.

01. A 10 a.m. Coke Zero--obviously
02. Checking in my key and key fob
03. Talking to Josh in the parking lot because it's a really boring day
04. Job hunting (I think my search criteria was only a place, hence the engineering postings for which I am clearly unqualified)
05. The mini chocolate cupcake a coworker brought me for my last day, one of four actual acknowledgments that I'm leaving (if other people knew, they said nothing)
06. The flowers that Emily sent me! Totally made my day
07. My last FedEx package
08. Checking to make sure that time really was progressing because my day felt interminable
09. My last view of IDL Worldwide
10. My bag of personal effects
11. My average speed during the commute (10 mph--10)
12. Commute time: 1 hour, 20 minutes, a commute I will not miss

belated reminder

2011-08-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

I know this is a little late, but don't forget that today is the 12th! Pull out your cameras and start documenting—it's not too late!

To learn more about 12-on-12, go here.

perhaps a little too ambitious—a post in which I use many italics

2011-08-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

The end of my work contract comes at an interesting time. I'll have one job-less week before heading to Disney Land with all the Wilsons, so as far as job hunting goes, it might be hard to get going before the trip. I mean, some job searching needs to happen, but still.

All of a sudden I have this open week in which I know that I won't have to go to work. (Plus I've earned a week of paid vacation through the staffing agency that they're willing to pay me for after the contract ends, so really, I will be getting paid next week. Score.) And that week is becoming more and more magical the closer it gets.

I have many plans, the most important one being turning into Super Woman so I have a chance at actually accomplishing everything I've dreamed in my mind. My to-try-to-do list for next week includes but is not limited to the following:

:: exercising every morning
:: reading by the pool
:: finishing season 7 of 24
:: sewing two dresses—one dressy, one casual
:: making dinner more than once
:: starting and finishing at least three embroidery projects, all gifts for other people
:: cleaning the whole apartment from top to bottom
:: going to HomeGoods
:: going to the temple
:: thrifting
:: taking the car for a tune-up and oil change

:: finishing The Kennedys with Josh (thank you, Allison—we're hooked)
:: planning my cake buffet birthday party
:: and writing the great American novel (obviously)

So, yeah, it's going to be a full week. And I know, I won't be able to do all of these things. But I can have fun trying, right? (Really, though, don't worry—finding a job is still very much a priority here.)

And yes, I do really want to finish both dresses.

a blog shout-out

2011-08-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

My brother, John, just started a blog over the weekend! I love it when my faraway family members blog, because that's just one more way for us to stay connected when we live so far apart. He's a high school senior and super tall. And he's a wonderful, wonderful younger brother. So go and check out his blog!

Mount St. Helens, or what happens when you marry into an adventurous family

2011-08-08T12:03:00.000-07:00

{Low-level recreator: one who is content to vacation at home, preferably while drinking Diet Pepsi and eating peanut-butter M&Ms}

When you consider yourself a low-level recreator, you may not consider yourself particularly adventurous. So when you end up marrying into a family of mid-level recreators, you sometimes do adventurous things you probably wouldn't do if it was up to you.

You may drive up to Mount St. Helens with the in-laws (which adds one more state to your Have-Been List, a list that has, up to this point, been remarkably small, a result of your low-level recreator status).

And you do things that you know you're comfortable with, like picnicking and checking out the visitors' center. You even get to watch a movie about the Mt. St. Helens explosion—it's pretty cool.

Then the adventure steps up a notch when you start hiking. Remember, your last major hiking experience was not great.

You're still feeling pretty good about this adventure, because the trail is wide and you see lots of pretty wildflowers. Your husband may love the wildflowers and insist that you take pictures of

every

single

new flower

you see.

Even the ones that are kind of ugly.

Then the trail starts to narrow, and you find yourself on a ridge with a steep rock wall on one side and a sloping cliff plummeting a thousand feet on the other.

Don't forget that there are hikers going both ways on the trail.

One time your foot slips, and you're nothing short of terrified. And your husband almost has a heart attack, ready to dive down after you to catch you with his walking stick.

After a quarter mile of this craziness, you reach a resting point. And the view is pretty great.

So you make sure that you document your adventurous family with the pretty scenery.

Don't forget the boys. They were happy to make it too.

Then you head back, hoping that your feet stay steady.

They do, and you proceed to offer silent prayers of unending gratitude.

You make it back to the car and wind up zoning out on the drive back, because you see, you had a pretty adventurous day.

And even though you're not naturally adventurous, it's good for you to step outside your comfort zone like this.

Because really, you had lots of fun, and you realize that your husband's adventurous family is the perfect complement to your low-level recreator-ness.

And you end up really liking that.

finding a fit

2011-08-05T10:08:00.000-07:00

Let's get a few things straight: I may not have enjoyed very much what I do at my job; however, I have very much enjoyed having a job. Jobs are hard to come by right now, and I have been grateful every day for the job that I have. And even though my duties haven't been anything glamorous, doing my job well is very important to me.

So you can imagine the conflicted feelings I had when my supervisor informed me that the company is ending my contract in lieu of hiring a gallery director (for our lower floor) who will absorb my responsibilities. This was unexpected and carries a few contrasting emotions. Since I started this job, the end seemed indefinite, and so I tried to adjust accordingly. Now all of a sudden, I have one week left with nothing lined up to follow.

In many ways, this change is a relief. Perhaps now I can devote more time and energy toward looking for a job that better fits my skill set and that's closer to home.

When I think about this new unknown in our life, part of me fills with anxiety. I hate job searching, because it's so full of rejection and dead-ends. Also, we've really come to enjoy the reassurance that comes with that extra cushion of income each week. The other part of me, though, fills with the anticipation that so often accompanies opportunity.

{via}

I feel . . . released. I feel like I have the opportunity to find a job that fits, maybe in not every way, but in at least some ways.

Yes, I will not miss this particular job, but I will miss having a job. So here's to opportunity, finding a fit, and maybe sneaking to the pool for some reading in the interim.

OSR: July 2011

2011-08-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

I slowed things down a bit in July when I decided to reread (for the third or fourth time) East of Eden, and I like mentioned last week, that is a book to savor. So I finished these books within the first two weeks of July.

Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I was really compelled during the first half. I loved how the author told Sarah's story in tandem with Julia's research. When Sarah's narration abruptly ended, however, I was a little disappointed in how the rest of the story panned out. I liked Julia well enough, but I didn't enjoy her narration on its own nearly as much as I did when it worked with Sarah's telling.

I really appreciated this account of the Vel' D'Hiv, especially since I hadn't known about that piece of French history. Despite the interesting historic aspect, I found the conclusion unsettling and a little depressing. This book was good but didn't quite live up to its potential.

Mindful Eating: A Guide to Rediscovering a Healthy and Joyful Relationship with Food by Jan Chozen Bays

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Coming from a belief system that values the human body, I found the concept of mindful eating attractive. Instead of focusing on "good" and "bad" foods, the author encourages becoming in tune with the body and what it needs and wants. Bays advocates eating slowly and purposefully, stopping when you're satisfied instead of bursting at the seams. While some of the theories proposed in this book are a little too new age for me, I like the idea of evaluating the different types of hunger we feel and the goal of appreciating and valuing eating instead of controlling it.

Take what you want from this book, and don't feel bad about disregarding the rest.

Little Bee by Chris Cleave

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I debated between giving this book 3 or 4 stars. How about 3.75? I ended up liking the story and found the perspective of a refugee girl fascinating. I had a harder time liking Sarah's narration, because I just have a hard time sympathizing with adulterous protagonists. I did end up liking Sarah at the end, but it took me a while to get there. The writing was original and thoughtful, and the message of hope at the end was empowering. Little Bee exposed me to a world I know little of, and I appreciated that.

Bossypants by Tina Fey

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you're a 30 Rock or SNL fan, you should read this. (And really, if you aren't a fan of those shows, I don't know what would draw you to this book in the first place.) Sure she gets up on her soapbox a few times, but it's her memoir, so really we can't blame her on that one. The best part about this book? Bossypants reminds us that it's way more fun to laugh at yourself than to take yourself too seriously.

And for the record, I plan on tuning in to 30 Rock's sixth season this fall. Can't wait.

View all my reviews

Yesterday I realized that I was only about 100 pages away from finishing East of Eden, and I've been so swept away by this book for the past few weeks that I haven't given thought to what I'm going to read next! I promptly put four books on hold at the library for pickup today or tomorrow. Close call, guys.

{If you don't want to wait to September to read the East of Eden review on the blog, be sure to click on the link at the bottom of the post that says "View all my reviews." The review should be up today or tomorrow.}

reunited with 30GB of entertainment

2011-08-02T11:16:00.000-07:00

Remember when I mentioned that my iPod was fried? I went for most of July without my iPod, and it was a colossal bummer. I do realize that unplugging myself is good every once in a while, and so I tried to take advantage of the new quiet in my life . . . and ending up lugging the laptop in to the bathroom with me while I got ready in the morning so I could have some company, courtesy of Netflix streaming.

I found a refurbished player on eBay for a reasonable price, and as soon as it came I sent it off to Emily so she could restock it for me. (My laptop with most of my music won't run iTunes, so really I had nothing.) She sent it back promptly, and it arrived yesterday.

I've spent all morning looking through my stocked iPod, recompiling my playlists and rediscovering music I'd forgotten about. And of all my listening options—options that include Ingrid Michaelson, the Weepies, and She & Him—I'm currently jamming to "Entering Bootytown" from the Music and Lyrics soundtrack, because that's just what feels good right now.

I know.

If you're needing some Tuesday ear-candy, give "Pop Goes My Heart" a go. And then maybe just go watch Music and Lyrics to get the fix I know you're really dying for.

You're welcome.

locating some summer

2011-08-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's already August? July always feel like the most summery of months, and I think I did a good job this month of finding some of that summer that I've lost. My weekend was especially summery.

We played putt-putt golf and ate cake for Jeff's birthday (and I sustained a couple of mosquito bites from the mini golf, and even though we hate them, mosquito bites are very summer).

{This cake was about two inches taller when I frosted it, but the weight of the frosting smashed the bottom layer! Regardless, it turned out well enough to not make me want to throw it, and that bottom layer bounced right back after I laid the pieces flat.}

We ate lunch at the Lake Oswego farmers' market on Saturday.

I enjoyed a genuine bratwurst (hello, bratwursts scream summer).

I also indulged in a chocolate croissant. (Do you really need a season to enjoy a good butter-saturated pastry? Of course not.)

We walked around Lake Oswego in weather perfect enough to allow shorts and simultaneously ward off sweating.

We topped off our weekend with naps, sewing, Thai take-out, a stay-in date night, embroidery, a bike ride, and some badminton.

This weekend was full of summer, and I'm ready to have another month of summer, complete with skirts, more bike rides, ice cream sandwiches, $5 movies, DisneyLand, and my 24th birthday.

end-of-week listing

2011-07-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

:: I forgot two things this morning: my wallet and my mid-morning snack. So I'm hungry and temporarily penniless. Thankfully the bus driver knows me by now and so I don't have to show my bus pass every time I board. I hope today I don't have a different bus driver.

:: I got to talk to my sister-in-law Estee yesterday, because it was her birthday. My other sister-in-law, Nicole, had a birthday a couple of weeks ago and I called her too. My sisters-in-law are wonderful, and I get to see both of them when we all head to DisneyLand next month. Yeah, you heard me. DisneyLand.

:: Tonight we're rollicking in birthday celebrations for my father-in-law, Jeff. I'm contributing a chocolate angel food cake, and this time I'll include a picture.

:: For the past couple of weeks I've been savoring East of Eden. Yes, savoring. That's the only way to read this book.

:: I don't really know what's on my weekend docket, and I think that's kind of exciting.

seven cake pans

2011-07-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

My senior year of college I bought some cake pans from the BYU craft store. They were ~~kind of~~ really dumb, but for a college student, they did the trick. Then later I used wedding money to buy nicer cake pans, and those were okay. When I was in Colorado, Mom pulled out Grandma's old cake pans, and I fell in love. They were heavy and used and stalwart (can cake pans be stalwart? I say yes). So I resolved to find some really nice cake pans like that.

Last weekend I pocketed some wedding gift cards to Crate & Barrel that I'd held off on spending and went out to buy three really nice cake pans—cake pans that look like my grandma's, just less used. (Mom said that I'll never regret having three nice cake pans. Ever.) Never mind that I already had four; these new ones are really nice. Like, lasting-through-my-lifetime nice. Like, I-don't-plan-on-ever-using-my-other-cake-pans-ever-again nice.

(I also bought a bright persimmon soap dispenser and a wedge server.)

After I got home I used these cake pans to make Edith James cake, which I'm thinking of renaming CJP cake (CJP = Charlotte Jane Petersen = my grandma = ultimate cake baker). And, hold your breath: it actually turned out. My Boston Cream Pie failure was avenged! I had to reach out to Miranda at one point when the frosting was freaking out, but we fixed it. {Sigh of immeasurable relief}

We'd eaten most of it by the time I took this picture. Obviously. It's not a pretty picture. But really, it wasn't a super pretty cake. The most important part was that it was a tasty cake.

So even though Josh gave me a weird look when I came home with three more cake pans, I know it's totally worth it. Just trust me.

PS—Every time I look in the mirror I'm surprised at my newly shortened hair.

Even though I'm not used to it yet, I love it.

lunch break

2011-07-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

A coworker was using the TV room for a conference call when my lunchtime rolled around, so instead of watching another Law and Order rerun, I brought my book and sandwich outside and read at the Park Blocks.

Not a bad way to spend a lunch break. Not bad at all.

hey, big haircut

2011-07-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

That's all the hair that I used to have.

And this is the hair that I have left:

I haven't had my hair above my shoulders since I was in fifth grade. I've labeled myself as a haircut chicken. I've always been too scared to cut my hair too short. So, yeah, this new style is kind of big for me.

When I was debating on whether or not to cut my hair, Emily said, "Well, you don't have boys to impress anymore, so it doesn't matter if it turns out bad." True statement, and thankfully Josh loves it.

Changing my hair has been kind of fun. I'm liking my new 'do. One of our Primary kids, however, is not such a fan. When I walked into the classroom yesterday, she exclaimed, "What did you do to your hair?!" Hilarious.

Do you like changing your hair?

most important

2011-07-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

I haven't been married for very long, and I know I have an eternity of marriage lessons before me. And even though we've been married less than one year, I've learned a lot about myself, Josh, and who we are as husband and wife.

I've learned that the words I love to say the most are "I love you."

And I've learned that the words I need to say the most are "I'm sorry."

I've learned that words of love are often synonymous with words of apology and that I always feel more love in light of forgiveness.

I didn't get married because I thought it would be easy or because I thought it would be perfect.

I got married because I love Josh and because I knew that even though I didn't really know what I was getting myself into, that by combining our faith and our love, we had a pretty good shot. And I feel that faith and love confirmed every single time I say "I'm sorry."

So, like I said, I don't feel like I'm a fount of marriage knowledge or advice. But I do know one thing: humility brings more love, satisfaction, and happiness than I ever realized.

wedding thank-yous

2011-07-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

Finished. And I am oh so grateful.

If I somehow missed you, I am so sorry and am so grateful for your wedding kindness. Just so you know.

this week

2011-07-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

:: I've been dressing for summer, even when the weather still won't agree. This means skirts, people, even though my legs freeze. I mean, hello, it's July.

:: I tried massaman curry at our go-to Thai place and loved it; peanuts make everything better, from entrees to desserts. (PS How is it that I like massaman curry but not strawberries?? I wish I had an explanation.)

:: I researched refurbished iPods to find a replacement. My other one bit the dust a couple of weeks ago and took all my music along with it. The best. (Not.)

:: I've found some great deals on Pick Your Plum. Every day they send out a new limited deal on something awesome. The items go quickly, so if you want it, buy it! Today I bought four cute button hair pins for $4, shipping included. Very Jane is also a great site for limited deals.

:: I've been psyching myself up for another cake-baking attempt.

:: I've really been wanting a pool day. However, temperatures have been averaging in the 60s, which is a little too chilly for the pool if you ask me.

:: By Thursday I am so ready for Friday. Who's with me?

loving on technology

2011-07-19T15:10:00.000-07:00

My mom is just too far away (and my dad and my brother and my sisters). 1,280 miles away, actually.

That's why I love situations like this:

11:22 a.m.—Send Mom an email
11:23 a.m.—Receive text from Mom
11:24 a.m.—Respond to text message
11:25 a.m.—Mom texts back
11:26 a.m.—I text back
11:27 a.m.—Mom texts back
Receive email from Mom
11:28 a.m.—Another text from me
11:29 a.m.—From me: "I love it that we're simultaneously texting and emailing. The best."

I'm glad that technology can make the miles not seem so long.

on feminism

2011-07-18T15:50:00.000-07:00

When I was in high school I drove an awesome car. One time I was in a Walgreen's parking lot with a dead battery. I had my friend Rachelle bring her car around, and I took out the jumper cables to jump my little convertible. And really, guys, I am a pro with jumper cables. As I was setting up, this man came over and asked if I need help. I politely declined, because, really, I knew what I was doing. This man, however, clearly didn't believe me and stood by watching me connect the cables to my battery and offering unsolicited and condescending advice. Once my car started (because I knew it would), this man looked at me and said gruffly, "Well, I guess you did know what you were doing."

{So here's the thing, readers: I am a feminist, and my guess is that you are too.}

I'm not a bra-burning, men-are-the-worst feminist. I don't like that strain of feminism. I'm a feminist who subscribes to the most basic of feminist principles: equality. And by equality I don't mean that I think gender should be socially negated. Because it shouldn't. Gender is important. By equality, I mean that men and women should be given the same rights and have their responsibilities be treated with the same amount of respect. I don't think that men are inherently better than women and I also don't think that women are inherently better than men.

While the feminist fight used to be about voting rights and the glass ceiling (and maybe still concerns the latter), my own feminist fight is more about sex.

The media tells me that I need a waist two sizes smaller with a chest size two sizes bigger. I need a toned abdomen, a tight butt, and makeup that always looks professional. The media also tells me that as a woman, I really don't matter much. My body is sexualized to sell everything from shoes to burgers. The media tells me that really all I'm good for is selling beer and gum. And TV shows and movies often don't help. Just look at Penny on The Big Bang Theory, who, while likeable, is a valley girl with zero smarts. Or the girls in the Transformer movies, who play nothing but a damsel-in-distress.

What are my daughters going to think when they see their female counterparts plastered half-naked on billboards or—let's get real—half-naked in the classroom among their peers? What are my sons going to think when they see women objectified and debased so publicly? Don't women realize that by subjecting themselves to the media like that they're in fact diminishing their power?

Thankfully, positive portrayals of women do make a media appearance. I want to expose my family to strong female characters like Hermione Granger and Molly Weasley from Harry Potter, Jo March from Little Women, Elizabeth Bennett from Pride and Prejudice, Sarah Prine from These Is My Words, and Anne Shirley from Anne of Green Gables. I want my children to know about my grandmothers, both women full of faith, grit, and joy. I want my daughters and sons to look at Josh and me and see a marriage based on the gospel, on respect, and on teamwork.

Even though I see sexualized women—and even sexualized little girls—everywhere in the media, I do interact with real women everyday through church, work, friends, and blogs. I know what a real woman is, and she is the woman I aspire to be, even if that means I'm imperfect and struggling. I want to be real. While the world may disagree with me, I know that when I'm a mother I will be making a bigger difference in the world than any corporate executive or movie producer. I refuse to contribute to Satan's lie about women and sex.

As women, we are real. Flawed? Sure. Beautiful? Absolutely. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

weekend plans

2011-07-15T16:49:00.000-07:00

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2. Obviously.

12 of 12: july 2011

2011-07-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

01. A rainy drive to the bus stop
02. Starting Tina Fey's book
03. Restocking the paper towels at work (jealous?)
04. Complimentary cookies that came in the supply order (breakfast, anyone?)
05. My favorite necklace with my favorite verb
06. Pinning (obviously)
07. Getting creative with FedEx boxes
08. Reward from coworker for making FedEx labels for him
09. Jimmy John's, easy dinner
10. Early evening shower
11. Winding embroidery floss on to bobbins
12. Fully charged phone after it spent all day almost dead

I've loved seeing your grids!

on my mind

2011-07-13T13:19:00.000-07:00

:: What to make for dinner?
:: I love the mini Moleskine notebooks I bought at Target to replace my almost-used-up list notebook. They're lime green.
:: I don't have Photoshop on my work computer, and so the 12of12 grid won't come up until tonight.
:: Tina Fey's autobiography is, so far, delightful. {Commas or no commas? What's your opinion?}
:: I'm so close to finishing wedding thank-yous. Like, really. I promise I haven't forgotten you. Didn't Emily Post say something about having a year grace period for wedding thank-yous? So, really, I'm right on track, right?
:: Really, though, what should I make for dinner?

{via}

:: These are looking really good to me. Are you on board? I know I am. For dinner? Okay, maybe just for dessert.

PS

2011-07-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that today is the 12th! So grab your cameras and play along!

the empty time card

2011-07-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

{I realized that for professional reasons, I might be wise to remove the bulk of this post from this public forum. I don't think this blog could be an honest one without occasional references to how I spend my week days, and I do think I should be more careful in how I discuss this particular aspect of quasi-adulthood. If you're wondering about my job or how I'm doing with it, feel free to email/call/visit/apparate me. And who knows, maybe you'll get an email from me because I'll feel bad that Josh has to hear the same things from me all the time.

Writing my thoughts is therapeutic for me, and so while I may not be expressing certain feelings via blog, I do plan on writing them out, because I've found that I'm much more articulate and purposeful when I write, as opposed to extemporaneous speech. Obviously.}

So for now, I'll leave you with the most important part of the original post:

My life is wonderful.

Operation Superhuman Reader: June 2011

2011-07-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Where to start? Mind-boggling, heartbreaking, maddening, unfathomable, yet honest, loving, and empowering. I came away from this book with a different understanding of unconditional love and with far more gratitude and humility than I had when I started.

The Bride's House by Sandra Dallas

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This Sandra Dallas book was surprisingly lackluster for me. The three stories told took too long to converge for me, and even then it was just a little too predictable. I didn't feel super attached to any of the characters or their fates. That said, I still felt unified in womanhood and learned more about love and forgiveness.

The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this young-adult novel thoughtful, refreshing, and well-written. The Goose Girl reminded me of Ella Enchanted, another favorite young-adult book. This book contains an ideal combination of action, romance, mysticism, and fairy tale, all enveloped in an honest coming-of-age framework.

The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I always get excited when I find a book about the print industry. I love the excitement and energy that surrounds newspapers and magazines. This book, however, replaced excitement with gloom. A somewhat gloomy outlook on the future of print, The Imperfectionists follows an international newspaper through several characters' stories. I liked only one character and found the others shallow and sad. I thought that maybe everything would tie together more in the end, but it didn't really. Perhaps this book accurately reflects the cynicism surrounding the future of print media, but it's sure not fun to read about.

Summers at Castle Auburn by Sharon Shinn

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The kitschy fantasy cover and awful back matter made me think of medieval clubs and hobbit cloaks, and I moved forward only on the recommendation of a friend. I was pleasantly surprised when I realized that this novel was more light fantasy and told a thoughtful coming-of-age story. Corie starts out as an immature, naive fourteen-year-old and through her summers in court grows into a discerning, empathetic young woman who has to make many decisions about who she is and wants to be. This book wasn't predictable, and I liked that. Summers at Castle Auburn is a great summer read combining sisterhood, political intrigue, and love in a winning fairy tale.

View all my reviews

According to Goodreads, I'm four books ahead of my annual goal of 40 books. This means one of two things: either read a book that will take a bigger investment (maybe another Ayn Rand novel? or a re-read of East of Eden? or both?) or increase my goal from 40 to 45 books.

What do you think?

picture vacation

2011-07-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

It had been so long since I'd been home—since Christmas, people—and this time, I just needed to be at home and not worry about capturing it. Thanks to Emily and her camera-clicking (she's been using Grandpa's Canon), though, our vacation was documented. I just don't have the photos yet. And heads-up, I don't see this post as having much direction.

First things first, Donut Night was fabulous.

Now for some highlights: We had chuck roast for Sunday dinner, and it was fabulous. We gorged ourselves on peanut-butter-ganache cake (don't worry—I was not in charge of the ganache), and, in fact, I think I'm still full.

On the Fourth, we headed up to the mountains for our traditional cookout breakfast. We made real French toast with real French bread, scrambled eggs, hash browns, and sausage and ate outside with the trees and river and mountains. The not-so-good of this excursion, though, was significant. Our drive home—which should take 40 minutes—was four hours long, because of an overturned semi. Four hours. I probably cried enough tears for each minute I lost to the traffic.

Because of our stolen afternoon, we opted out of fireworks and stayed home eating pizza, leftover cake, and drinking Diet Pepsi while we played more games of Bang!.

I don't have much to say about coming home to Oregon, except that I wasn't ready to. That, and cleaning before a vacation is the best idea ever. Even Josh was excited to come home to a clean and tidy apartment.

reporting from the 303

2011-07-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

So I'm writing here from my home town, and I've loved every moment. I just thought I'd check in.

Think Diet Pepsi, Modern Family, Bang!, Denver Fabrics, and barbecued brisket.

Right now we're prepping for Donut Night.

I know you wish you were here too.

an equation

2011-06-29T15:51:00.000-07:00

An extra day off work +
cleaning the kitchen +
cleaning the bathroom +
doing the laundry +
vacuuming +
cleaning the fridge +
a clean dishwasher +
mopping +
folding the laundry +
packing +
six episodes of Gilmore Girls =
the perfect preparation for a vacation in Colorado.

Now that is my kind of math.

a high price

2011-06-28T21:47:00.000-07:00

This morning when I put on the cutest shoes I've ever owned, I didn't realize that my work day would be a perfect storm of craziness that would involve countless trips up and down stairs carrying boxes full of unmatched Nikes.

I think I bruised the balls of my feet. I'll probably still limp a little tomorrow morning.

And yet that patent-leather ruffle gets me every time. Every. single. time.

domestic battles

2011-06-27T11:19:00.000-07:00

One of the things I most love about post–college graduation and marriage is the time I have to cultivate domesticity. I love wearing aprons and baking and sewing and decorating. We know this.

Lately, however, domesticity has been giving me a run for my money. I've had a few successes, but I have also lost several battles. Please review the following case studies.

01. The grease-stained shirt, possible points: 1
I bought a new taupe shirt from DownEast Basics, and I was really excited about it. I've been needing new basics, and this was perfect. My first time wearing it I was cooking pork chops and butter splattered from the pan onto my brand new shirt (lesson: always wear an apron). I washed it right away (like, I left the pork chops in the pan as I stripped through the kitchen to get my shirt in the wash), but the stains remained. After I tried Mom's suggestion to treat the stains with dish detergent, I ended up washing the shirt about five more times before the stains came out. But, they came out. In fact, I'm wearing the shirt today. Success.

02. The wraparound skirt, possible points: 2
Mom directed me to this really cute wraparound skirt pattern that was advertised as a one-hour project. I found the perfect fabric and, after a trip back to get more fabric after a cutting mishap, I went to town. I learned to hand-hem, because I don't like the blind-hem stitch on my machine. Using a dress Mom made me as a reference, I taught myself how to hem by hand, I was very pleased with the results. Success.

Then I set out Saturday night to finish it, and the waistband was completely backwards. The skirt ended up even less finished than when I started working on it. (One-hour project? False.) Failure.

03. The Boston Cream Pie, possible points, 4 (because ganache counts as 2, obviously)
The first thing I said to Josh as we got in the car to go home: "I hate the cake." I don't even think I'll save the leftovers.

Part A. The cake
I don't even want to talk about it. But I do, because I'm so mad. I looked up a sponge cake recipe from Cook's Illustrated, because how can they lead you astray, right? The cake turned out tough and holey. Cakes elude me, readers, and I really wish I could figure them out. Whenever I make them, they don't rise very high, and sometimes—like in this case—they actively seek to do me in. Failure.

Part B. The custard
This part worked out fine. I like making custard, and so far, it's never let me down. If you can't find me, chances are I'm watching Gilmore Girls and eating the leftover custard by the spoonful to drown the rest of my Boston Cream Pie failures. Success.

Part C. The ganache
Don't even get me started. I think this counts as negative two points actually. Every single time I've made ganache it turns out thick and smooth and delicious. This time it was runny and grainy. I couldn't even look at it. Failure.

Final tally: Domesticity— 4; Me—3

So maybe I'm not losing by as much as I thought I was. Domesticity is sometimes elusive, I've learned. And when I get frustrated I have to remind myself that my mom and grandma have had years and years more of domestic experience than I've had. And really, catching up to domesticity shouldn't be so hard when I'm only one point behind.

Wish me luck. And maybe volunteer to clean up the Boston Cream Pie that I'm ready to smash on the ground. Thanks.

Friday five

2011-06-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

:: I have a nasty bruise on my leg that's preventing me from wearing shorts or skirts. Seriously guys, it's been almost two weeks since I've felt confident in wearing shin-bearing apparel. I wore a skirt the other day and had a few comments about my gross bruise. I've reverted back to jeans until my leg no longer resembles a photo of the cosmos.

:: Sherlock. We found it on Netflix and are huge fans. It's a 21st-century take on the quintessential detective, and I find it delightful. Each season is only three episodes long, but each episode is 90 minutes. I read that BBC is airing another season in the fall. I'll be watching. Obviously.

{via}

:: I still haven't folded the laundry. And once I finally get that done it'll probably take me another whole week to actually put it away. And then I'll have to wash the dirty clothes, and the cycle starts over.

:: Colorado. Next week. Can't wait.

:: Floating shoes. In our office. If you've wondered what we actually do here, we do stuff like this. {Well, what I actually do is sign for packages and refill the Coca-Cola.}

Happy Friday, everyone, and let's hope that traffic on the way home isn't the worst. Because, honestly, come week's end, my patience for bad traffic and late buses is less than zero.

summertime

2011-06-22T15:10:00.000-07:00

Somewhere along the way I've lost summer. And I really want to find it. I remember summers full of pool days and tag outside and afternoon popsicles. I remember the mosquito bites, the neighborhood bike rides, and the reading challenges at the library. I remember the barbecue parties and shopping for new sandals each year.

Somewhere, though, I lost it; as I grew up I imperceptibly disconnected myself from the magic of it all. I started working summers, my summer days being defined by how much money I have to earn for the next school year. I'd spend all day in an air conditioned office sorting invoices or, in the case of last summer, writing magazine articles. I'd get bursts of summer when I'd leave work for the day and walk out into searing July heat or eat burgers on the grill at Grandma's.

I don't know why I let summer slip away from me. Now here I am in 2011, the day after the first day of summer, wondering how to make summer summer again.

{via}

My goal this summer is simple: find it.

leftovers

2011-06-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

I brought in the leftover apple donut muffins to snack on this morning. There used to be six before I took that picture. Now there are zero.

always the dad

2011-06-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest moments on my wedding day was saying goodbye to my dad as we left the reception. I think I rushed it so that no one would see my bittersweet tears welling (because who wants to see the bride cry as she leaves the party, right?).

He's always been the dad, and I was afraid that getting married would somehow change that.

But it didn't. Not at all. I'm still his little Charlotte, and he's still the dad. I still need him, and I always will. He'll always be the dad, and I love that. Happy Father's Day, Dad. I love being your daughter.

those days

2011-06-17T15:36:00.000-07:00

You know those days when you wake up and already have a bad-itude? Those days when you're discouraged by the lame-o economy? Those days when you're overwhelmed by uncertainty? Those days when all you feel up to doing is DPAD (drinking Pepsi all day) and watching a trusted TV show? Those days when you can't stand another zit on your face?

I was having one of those days.

I've spent much of my day in a royal funk, counting the hours until I check out of here for my weekend. I don't know exactly what changed; I talked to Josh on the phone for a few minutes, we hashed out our weekend a bit, and I just felt better.

I mean, not 100-percent better. There's a lingering funk here. But it's not as funky as it was.

Here's to the weekend, readers.

a coast post

2011-06-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

We made our way to Jeff and Karen's Saturday morning and packed up the car to head to Cannon Beach. Josh's grandparents were also along for the weekend, and this trip coincided perfectly with Karen's birthday celebration! After stops at the outlet mall and Quizno's for lunch, we were on our way to the Oregon coast, and I couldn't have been more excited.

When we arrived we unpacked and promptly made our way down to the beach to enjoy the clear sky and 70-something-degree weather. (We stayed in Josh's aunt and uncle's beachfront property, so the beach was a three-minute walk away!)

While I walked around barefoot and took pictures and dozed and read my book, Josh spent three full hours flying a kite.

I found this display of boyishness completely invigorating.

That night we all went to Mo's for dinner. Josh requested some crayons so he could enjoy the kids' place mat he'd also requested.

The sun stayed out until 9:00 or 9:30, and we all stopped what we were doing to watch the sunset. Then we ate birthday cake. Obviously. (I can't believe I forgot to get a picture of the chocolate angel food cake I made for the occasion.)

Sunday morning we walked along the beach for a hour or so and this time enjoyed a chillier, cloudy coast.

What I loved most about this coast is that it reminds me strikingly of the mountains. The Oregon coast is just that—a coast. Not a beach. You don't find boardwalks, bikinis, or Sno-Cone machines here. Instead you find washed up kelp, driftwood, and sea-smoothed rocks.

The constant ebbing of the tides and the slate gray ocean expanse contrast beautifully with rocky cliffs and forest. It's so wild. It's that wildness that reminds me so vividly of the Rocky Mountains. The briny air is clear and crisp and cleansing. We saw whale spouts, seals flipping out of the water, and faraway fishing boats.

On our walk Sunday morning, I made my way to some mussel-covered rocks hiding pools of anemones. At one point I stared transfixed at the tidal dynamics directing the water crashing on the rocks. I felt suspended in the liminality between what's familiar and all that I don't know. I felt removed from my comfort zone and placed on the edge of untamed, beautiful, wild nature.

We finished up the weekend with napping, movies, card games, and more birthday cake. The Oregon coast is one of my new favorite places, and I'm pretty sure that we'll be planning many more coastal excursions.

12 of 12: june 2011

2011-06-13T15:14:00.000-07:00

01. Reading in bed

02. Josh and his walking stick (that he brought home he loves it so much) heading down to the beach

03. Mussel-covered rocks

04. Karen seeing if she can rock climb the beach rock

05. Exploring the other end of the beach

06. Pirate's Booty—like tasty Styrofoam peanuts

07. Card games

08. Fantastic Mr. Fox—delightful movie

09. No wind for stunt-kite flying

10. Diet Dr. Pepper—a road trip necessity

11. Post-beach laundry

12. Cereal for dinner

I loved being on a mini-vacation for my 12of12 this month! I'll be posting a more thorough recap of our weekend tomorrow. I took so many pictures my camera contemplating explosion.

I'm linking up here, if you'd like to play along!

focusing

2011-06-10T12:55:00.000-07:00

My mind is pretty much all over the place today. I credit that to Friday. My focusing abilities are pretty much zero. I'm having a hard time even deciding what to post in my un-focused list.

:: I got mail this week from one of my all-time favorites, Sister Katelyn Schwanke. She's been on her mission for about a year now. I miss her terribly, and I'm so inspired by her love and dedication to her calling. Getting mail from her is one of my favorite, favorite things.

:: I see this cooler all day everyday. And sometimes it's really hard not to drink a million Coke Zeros.

:: We're going to the coast this weekend, and I am seriously stoked. This will be my first time to the Oregon coast, and I've heard nothing but wonderful things about it.
:: The biggest fringe benefit of heading to the coast? Not having to teach a Primary lesson.
:: I have lots of pregnant friends (plus more who don't blog and aren't linked), and it's entirely wonderful.
:: We've had lots of flies around the office lately, including a swarm of flies in our doorway. I have a serious fear of accidentally swallowing one.
:: Can you believe it's already June 10? I hardly can.

:: I found a documentary on Netflix streaming about Helvetica. Yes, the font. Seriously, guys, I'm super excited to watch this.

So, this weekend, I'll go to the Oregon coast and you can meet me there. Okay? Okay.

And don't forget—Sunday is the 12th. We all know what that means. Can't wait to see your grids!

right now

2011-06-09T10:33:00.000-07:00

:: sore backs
:: Icy-Hot
:: even some Percocet
:: heated rice pack
:: homemade spaghetti
:: sundress
:: the library
:: maybe a library bike ride
:: clean laundry
:: crowded fridge
:: giveaway entries
:: breeze
:: angel food cake pan

so, I bought a bike

2011-06-06T12:06:00.000-07:00

The last time I owned a bike I was ten. On top of that I can't remember the last time I even rode a bike. But I bought one.

And really, how could I not when it came in such a perfect orange?

So we picked it up on Saturday in Jeff and Karen's Explorer. Then when we got back into Wilsonville, we decided to ride our bikes back home instead of having someone drop us off.

It had been a very long time since I'd ridden a bike. Like, really. And so I thought that when my legs had to work so hard to pedal that the burning muscle in my thighs was just manifestation of my out-of-shapeness (despite my workout dates with Jillian). So I kept pedaling (most of the time in the lowest gear), lagging behind Josh as we took the back way home.

Soon I had to stop every couple of minutes to catch my breath, because I was heaving so bad. And by then I was feeling stupid. In the extreme. My thoughts went something like, Who was I kidding when I said I could ride a bike? I'm probably the biggest wimp in the world! Let's just return the damn bike! Is this entire ride uphill? And I ended up crying. All my dreams of biking to and from the library all summer were fast disappearing.

Josh was kind and stopped when I needed to and waited while I caught my breath and summoned almost nonexistent strength to keep going. He kept giving me pep talks the closer we got to home and reminded me that we were coming up on the final leg, which was largely downhill. He stopped me, though, when he realized that I was having to pedal downhill. Need to reread that? I had to pedal downhill.

And here's the thing: it had been so long since I'd ridden a bike that the possibility of something being wrong with the bike didn't occur to me. It turned out that one of the break tubes was stuck under the front reflector. So I'd been riding the whole time with my front wheel fully braked. At that moment I would have laughed if I hadn't still been crying. Don't worry, though—I laughed later. Lots of laughing. You can laugh too, if you hadn't started laughing three paragraphs ago.

And really, the last half mile home was a breeze. Because, you know, I wasn't pedaling a bike that should have been stopped.

Wondering how to recover from such an inaugural ride? Shower, put on stretchy pants, and laugh about it over and over while eating a brownie–ice cream sundae.

a summery saturday

2011-06-05T18:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday had an 80-degree forecast. So we planned a full day outside. Obviously.

Portland Saturday Market and food carts.

Street performers.

The waterfront.

Brownie blast ice cream.

The Japanese gardens.

Bonsai trees.

Lots of lovely, outside, sun time with Josh and Jeff and Karen and Ian and Marie. (Contrary to how I look in this picture, I am not with child.)

Summer has arrived!

You know, for now.

Next up: Inaugurating the new orange bicycle.

Operation Superhuman Reader: May 2011

2011-06-03T13:26:00.000-07:00

May was a big reading month for me! I just get giddy when I think about all the books there are to read.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I hadn't read this book since high school, and I felt it was time for a re-read. To Kill a Mockingbird is one of my favorite coming-of-age stories ever. It's hard to write this review, because I feel like I'm still digesting it (even though I've read two times before). I want to talk about Atticus, Aunt Alexandra, Mrs. DuBose, the Ewells, Tom Robinson, Scout, Jem, and Boo Radley. Anything I write here, though, would likely be disconnected and loaded with disorganized emotion. So you'll just have to read it yourself, if you've managed to get through the public school system without studying it already. And even if you did read this in school, read it again. Just do it.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love a good Southern novel. This has been on my to-read list for almost two years, and I'm so glad I finally picked it up. I loved the history aspect, and I loved how real the characters became to me. I loved how attached I became to even the peripheral characters. I loved the emotions I felt while reading, and I loved the ultimate message that even though we may think we're too different from others, we share so many more things in our human experience than we realize. In so many different ways we all experience love, disappointment, pain, triumph, fulfillment, anger, and it's in that way that we're unique as individuals and united as people. If you're looking for a down-to-earth, compelling Southern novel, you've found it.

Unbearable Lightness by Portia de Rossi

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I finished this book as fast as I did not because it was so compelling but rather because I wanted it to be over. De Rossi's detailed account of her years battling an eating disorder introduced me to a dark world. We all have moments when we feel bad about how we look, and I found that I related to some of de Rossi's sentiments, a connection that scared me because of how destructive those mentalities proved in Portia's own life. I felt weighed down reading about the self-loathing and destruction and simultaneously grateful that I have never experienced such intense self-hatred. Her self-acceptance in the end is undoubtedly redemptive, and I liked her approach to healthy and mindful eating. Given, however, the depth of pain and darkness recounted in this book, I wish that her recovery had been more thoroughly explored.

What's Up Down There?: Questions You'd Only Ask Your Gynecologist If She Was Your Best Friend by Lissa Rankin

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I stumbled on this book a while ago and was intrigued. I thought Yeah, I'd love to have some questions answered! The author takes a candid, frank, entertaining, and comfortable approach to all things potentially uncomfortable. I came away from this book not only feeling normal, I came away feeling better about my body, convinced that it's beautiful just the way it is.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Firstly, circuses kind of freak me out. I wanted to like the characters more than I did, and I wanted to care more about what happened to them. I was interested enough in them to finish, but I didn't really care about them. I enjoyed the twists at the end, and Jacob's elderly self was endearing in a crotchety way. The writing quality didn't stand out to me and was sometimes unnecessarily sexual. Okay writing, okay plot. I wish I liked it either more or less so I'd have a decided opinion. But I don't.

Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tallgrass was published four years ago, and I'm surprised that I didn't stumble on it before now; Sandra Dallas is always a good read. I enjoyed the time period of this story and have always found our nation's history with Japanese internment camps fascinating and very sad. I loved the protagonists, who all dealt with issues like rape, murder, and bigotry with dignity and grit. Even amidst intense hate and abuse, the characters in this book can love and move forward. Tallgrass emphasized that even if being a good person isn't easy, it makes you strong, and even though life gets hard, things will work out. I love that.

I Still Dream About You by Fannie Flagg

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is a light, easy read that didn't change my life. And sometimes, it's nice to read a book that doesn't change your life. The characters were likeable and the plot simple. I found some aspects unbelievable, but I could let those reservations go in lieu of everything working out exactly as it should. It's nice to read a book that ends up in a perfect happily-ever-after way. Sometimes, that's just the kind of book you need.

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