When I say Earl Grey, you say "yes, please!"

This video is awesome on so many levels! Thanks, Marc ;)

Halloween 2009

I am so, so behind on my updates! October was quite the busy month, full of events that I will faithfully relate in a later post. For now, let's start with Halloween ;)

Tuesday night, KC and I were invited to a dinner/pumpkin carving party at Scott and Michelle's. Delicious food, witty conversation, and pumpkin slaughter were rife!

Getting down to business


Anna's feeling festive...


Michelle, looking adorable in her apron, dives in


The finished products

The next day, I was asked to join KC's community group for more pumpkin carving goodness, caramel apple ciders, and cookies. I am never one to turn down unexpected boyfriend time or free food...


Jules, Bethany, and I show off our pumpkin-y guts!


Some pretty fantastic carving jobs. Can you guess which one is mine?

Saturday was our Ignite Halloween party. Following my new tradition of disguising myself as a Sci-Fi blonde, I joined KC and Shauna in dressing up as characters from Battlestar Galactica (yes, as in "Bears. Beets. Battlestar Galactica.") ;)


Most of the crew wear a variation of this casual uniform as their military fatigues. (Shauna was Kara "Starbuck" Thrace, the blonde in the front)


KC dressed up as Colonel Saul Tigh, everyone's favorite tough-talkin', alcoholic XO


And that left me as the sometimes-villain with questionable motives, Caprica Six


Posing with my man


Terry, KC, and Shauna


Keeping in character


Sandi and Kimberly, looking as cute as bugs' ears (har, har!)


Michelle and I


Dana as "D-Dawg"


Roller derby Julie


Josh as Indiana Jones, Krystal as a munchkin, and Terry


Girl couch time


Vampire Dorothy?

All in all, a very successful week of festivities, I think! I still can't believe that October is already over. Not sure I'm ready for the onslaught of cold weather and a looming holiday season...

The King of Pop

Last night, I saw a preview for "This Is It", an upcoming film that showcases Michael Jackson and his team preparing for a huge world tour that would never take place.

Oddly, the music in the trailer made me really nostalgic. I later went home and downloaded some of Michael's songs from the 80's and watched old music videos on youtube. Man, that guy could dance. I forgot just how talented he was and how fun he was to watch. Take, for example, the video for "Smooth Criminal" (posted below). Now, I don't consider MJ to be the epitome of strength and masculinity; but that said, my inner fourteen-year-old wouldn't mind being rescued from dancing mobsters by a snapping, spinning, gyrating Michael Jackson ;)

Weekly hits (and no misses!)

Time for another list of things I love right now (oh, I do so love making lists)!

10.) Blogs. Love them. Whether they feature updates on my family and friends, recipes, fashion, culture, or hodgepodge (I think mine qualifies as the latter), I love checking my handful of favorites almost daily!

9.) Re-visiting my old Japanese lifestyle. Mom and I recently made a trip to the Asian grocery store, Uwajimaya, which is always good fun. I love wandering down all of the aisles giggling over memories of the clueless trips I used to make to Co-op (a big, local grocery chain) when I lived in Kobe. I stocked up on favorite treats like udon, Hi-chew candy, okonomiyaki ingredients, and my favorite Calpico beverage!

Mmm, milky, grapefruity goodness!

8.) MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation. Wow. Thank you almighty MAC artists for this incredible product that provides full coverage without that yucky, cakey feel!


Worth it's weight in gold!

7.) Chilly evenings. I love going to bed in flannel jim-jam pants, with full blankets piled on top of me, and a cold breeze coming through the window. Trying to fall asleep when I'm hot and sticky is the absolute worst. Yay for fall!

6.) Ethnic Food. Japanese, Thai, and German food all in one week. Oh yes, life is good <3

5.) Girly-ness. Whether it's talking make-up and baby leggings with Kami, handbags with Mom, wedding stuff with Carrie or Kelly, it's just fun to be a girly-girl!

4.) Prayer and fellowship time with the ladies of my community group. It's such a blessing to be able to connect and share with the same group of wonderful ladies every Monday night.

3.) Birthday surprises! I love being able to help plan and take part in birthday surprises for friends and family, and this week I got to celebrate with two very sweet girls (Happy Birthday Kami and Sandi!) ;)

2.) Sister and Mommy time. I got to see both Carrie and my Mama for some one on one time this week! Fantastic!

1.) Learning, growing, maturing, building up, and cherishing my relationship. Each day is a new step in this journey, and every moment of it is precious. I'm learning a lot, both about myself and KC, and God is bringing me new truths and joys daily.


Who's a lucky girl? It's me!

Picture post!

As promised, here are some photos from the last couple weeks of adventures and events ;)

KC posted a fancy-dress poker night at his house


Posing with Joy


Hanging out at the scenic Skamania Lodge with the fam, KC, and Maiko (my friend from Japan who came to visit for a week)




At the Punchbowl. KC and I took Maiko on a quick over night backpacking trip to Eagle Creek. It was her first time "roughing it" and eating "camp food", but she was quite the trooper!



Lunch on the trail


A chipmunk took advantage of the hummus and couscous we dropped at lunch


KC's picture of the Doctor, who accompanied us on the trip


Tunnel Falls




Our second to last stop: Multnomah Falls


...and finally, Taco Bell, without which no backpacking trip would be complete. Maiko loved it!

Growing pains

Growing up can be a difficult business. Just ask any of the kiddos headed back to school this fall. Moving up a grade, adjusting to different challenges, meeting new friends, or starting out at a new school-- tough stuff!

Adults aren't really off the hook either. Sixteen years of school don't always prepare you for a busy, bustling, and conflict-filled world teeming with pesky details like bills, mortgages, frustrating bosses, failed relationships, and traffic jams. Even at 29, I still find that I'm having daily growing pains-- little anxieties and clumsy missteps that cause me to doubt myself, doubt others, or even worse, doubt God!

For so many Americans, the past year has been marked with fear and doubt. Lay-offs and a depressing economy have weighed down hearts and caused unimaginable stress. What amazes me about the Bible though, is that it speaks with relevance and authority on every emotion, situation, and human condition that ever was or will be. Too often, we think of the larger-than-life heroes of the Bible, and forget that they also had fears, doubts, and moments where they stumbled both emotionally and spiritually.

Frankly, these moments suck. But they aren't pointless, and like all things under God's sovereignty, they can be incorporated into His plan. Consider Paul, who confessed in 1 Corinthians 2:3 that he was, "with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling." This man of God was struggling with some tremendous burdens. It's intense trials and obstacles like these that cause us growing pains; but the beautiful thing about growing pains, is that they can spur emotional and spiritual growth and assist in building the sort of character that God loves and admires. Romans 5:3-4 explains that we should embrace these discomforts because they help to produce hope and faith:

"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."

I love to beat myself over the head in punishment for my failings and moments of doubt. But it's key to remember that such an accusing spirit doesn't come from the Lord, but from the enemy, who prowls about, hoping to kill and devour. Proverbs 8:10 tells us that "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." Who better to run to with our growing pains than Daddy himself?

This morning's edition of "Our Daily Bread" reminds God's children of the significance of prayer during these moments of turbulence:

"Sometimes we need reminders that God is near. When trials come and God seems far away, remember...the truth that we are just one prayer from connecting with the God of the universe (John 14:13)."

Life has no guarantees and following Christ does not exempt us from trials, pain, or confusion. That said, we can be set free from our own fear and anxiety when we stop relying on ourselves and start turning to our Creator and Liberator in prayer. These often crippling emotions and stressful experiences are all part of running the race, and the road is sure to be bumpy-- but we're never alone on our respective journeys.

"So don't worry that you have worries! Don't pretend you never have them. If you are troubled by anxieties, admit them to yourself. Share them with a trusted friend. Above all, talk to the all-compassionate Friend, Jesus Christ, who knows your every thought and emotion (Psalm 139:4). With compassion, He says to you, "Do not fear" (Luke 12:32). Ask Him for the grace to help you overcome your fears and worries. Then, "wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart" (Psalm 27:14)."
-Our Daily Bread, February 12, 2003

Got growing pains? Welcome to the fold, friend ;) Be grateful for the opportunity to "grow up" and thank the Father for his faithful guidance and deliverance.

How to be a Recession-ista

Times are tough right now, with unemployment at an all-time high and our economy’s feeble attempts to recover from a major recession. What’s a girl to do in such a dismal economic climate? Is there a way to maintain frugal mentality and still be fashion-conscious?

Yes ;)

Let me share some tips from my own personal recession experiences:

Reduce, re-use, and make money! If you’re like me, chances are you have a closet full of clothes, accessories, or hobby-related items that you’re no longer using. Turn your clutter into spending money by placing it in a consignment shop, selling it on Craigslist, or listing it on ebay. Did you know that ebay now allows sellers to list five items a month for free? Tired of those Paypal fees whenever you accept a payment from a buyer? When possible, have your buyer select the “gift” option instead of “payment” and you’ll save yourself from those pesky fees.

Buy used! Stores like Plato’s Closet offer racks of high end brands (including designer denim) for less than half the price! Even better, they accept your gently used clothing and offer either in-store credit or cash in return.

Like designer brands, but not designer prices? Look for your favorite stores’ fall lines on ebay and pay 30% - 50% less on brand new clothes. Fashionistas splurge on the latest trends, only to tire of them and move on to the next big thing. These still trendy items are usually listed on ebay and sold for incredibly reasonable prices. Gently used designer jeans and handbags are two of the things I generally scout for. Many sellers are offering free shipping as an incentive to attract buyers, so grab yourself a bargain!

Who doesn’t love a freebie? Trade in six empty MAC containers at any MAC store and pick out a free lip gloss, lipstick, or eye shadow.

Surprisingly, there are many magazines that offer promotional subscriptions. Google “free magazine subscription” and see what pops up. Last spring, I took advantage of a year-long subscription to Saveur, a premiere cooking magazine. Love it!

Stores like Nordstrom, REI, and Walmart offer a ship to store or in-store pick-up option, which eliminates shipping and handling costs.

Hit the sales! Have a European backpacking adventure planned for next year? Take advantage of REI’s used gear sales, featured at various REI locations a few times a year, and pay 50% - 70% less than the regular price.

Now is the time to start browsing for new electronics. Older models of televisions, laptops, computers, and other equipment often have their prices slashed big time right before the New Year in order to make room for new models. And don’t be afraid to mention the lower price you found at a competing store. The large chains want your business and moolah and, perhaps more now than ever, are willing to price match to keep you from walking out empty handed.

Stand up for yourself! While I’m not advocating being a bully, I do think it’s important to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. If a price has been marked incorrectly and it’s clearly the fault of the store or company, call them on it. Most places are required to honor their printed price or offer, even if it’s wrong.

Ask questions and save. I went to Starbucks and ordered a tall coffee, requesting that it be topped off with soy milk. The young man at the register proceeded to ring up my order and then charged me an additional .50 cents for soy. I pointed out that Starbucks offers free half & half and non-fat milk on their condiment bar and asked why lactose-intolerant people should have to pay for the same privilege-- he promptly deleted the charge.

When I signed a two-year contract with AT&T, I was dismayed to see an additional $30 activation fee on my first bill. I called customer service and politely inquired why I was paying them an activation fee when they would be getting more than $60 a month from me for the next two years. Again, the charge was removed.

There’s always chances for charity: You may not have a lot of extra cash laying around, but did you know that you can donate your credit card reward points (like airline miles) to charity? I looked into donating my United mileage plus points and was pleased to find a variety of worthy charities to choose from, including one of my personal favorites: the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Have a great beginning of your week! ;)

Happy Thoughts

I'm cozied up on my russet couch, inhaling the sweet scent of my Japanese incense (cherry blossom and purchased from a quaint shop in Kyoto), drinking lemonade, and watching "Marie Antoinette". After weeks of busyness, these little indulgences feel delicious. I can't say enough just how much I adore this film. So original and aesthetically gorgeous-- total eye candy! It makes me want to surrender to absolute girliness: to bake cakes and frost them with pink, look at ruffled fabrics, and read Jane Austen. But instead I'll entertain you with a post similar to my friend Kami's.

This week's inspirations:

1.) Fall fashion

Slouch boots


Victorian cuff bracelets


Feminine stripes


Cropped leather jackets and bombers


Gorgeous handbags in eye-popping shades: yellow, plum, orange, and blue

2.) History and mythology

Autumn weather makes me want to drink mug-fulls of steaming tea and hit the books. Non-fiction, historical fiction, and books of classical mythology-- I don't mind the rainy evenings ;)

3.) Cooking and baking


I'm ready for savory soups, hearty breads, and pumpkin-flavored goodies!



4.) Brilliant, warm, intelligent, and good people who enrich my life and inspire me to be a better person (you know who you are!).

I have a ton of adventures and pictures to share with you, so stay tuned for the next post! But first, slow-churned vanilla ice cream and blueberries in a lovely bowl from Anthropologie ;)

This week's top ten (so far)

10.) Pacific Natural Food's (low sodium) Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato soup

So delicious. I toss in avocado as an extra treat!

9. ) Lancome's Flash Retouche (Perfecting Brush-On Concealer Radiance & Anti-Fatigue)

Slim and sleek, this little wonder has saved me so many times. I've even taken it camping. It's all you need to banish those dark circles.

8.) REI's Labor Day Clearance sale. I just discovered that I can fit into certain kids' sizes, which saves me EVEN more!

7.) Alone-time dance parties. Because sometimes you just gots to.

6.) Going through old photos and videos. I spent over an hour looking through my Japan photos last night-- so much fun.

5.) September and the approach of fall. I don't know why I love the end of summer so much. Maybe it's the leftover excitement of back-to-school, ripe blackberries, or the promise of an Indian summer. Autumn is my favorite time of year and Oregon Septembers are usually full bright blue skies, crisp air, and that wonderful dried/burnt leave smell. Mmmm....

4.) This Fall's shoe trend: booties

With straps, buckles, thick heels or stilettos-- love them.

3.) (Do You Wanna Date My) Avatar / The Guild (featuring Felicia Day)


"The Guild" just keeps getting better and better, and their music video introduction to the third season is a riot! On behalf of girl gamers everywhere: thank you, Felicia Day!

2.) Out of state (and country) visits. My Nebraskan relatives and Japanese friend are both visiting this week-- yay!

1.) Weekend adventures with KC ;)


<3

Re: Your brains

This little ditty, while not for the faint of heart, is one of the most clever songs I've heard in a long time. The lyrics are laugh-out-loud funny. Really. ;)

Princesses do wear hiking boots (or trail shoes)

The weekend before last (8/14 - 8/16) marked my first truly rugged outdoor experience. This was no luxurious car camping expedition or even a lengthy day hike: my seven companions and I tackled Mount Hood's scenic Yocum Ridge over a three day period.

We started off Friday evening, and enjoyed a bit of fleeting daylight before resorting to headlamps and flashlights for our night hike. The first night we camped near the picturesque Ramona Falls, which we could hear very clearly in the pitch darkness.

The beginning of a journey

It was a chilly night. I layered up and buried myself into my cocoon of a sleeping bag. Over the years, I've learned that I can sleep most anywhere as long as I can keep relatively warm. Camping is no different ;)

Our designated meal-coordinator had gone over and beyond the call of duty and planned wonderful meals for us. We ate well every day, munching on things like instant mashed potatoes, stuffing, canned turkey, cheese cake pudding, hummus, pita, couscous with almonds and raisins, and tons of snacks.


Enjoying some breakfast and hot coffee


Group shot


Posing near Ramona Falls


Suited up and ready to go

Saturday's trek was quite the lesson in sudden elevation gain, but was worth every moment of discomfort. As the long tendrils of mist (which had followed us up the mountain nearly the entire journey) began to roll away, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountain.


A misty climb


Vivid wildflowers


An almost eerie hillside


My itinerant boyfriend ;)


Right out of "The Sound of Music"

Our campsite that night was nestled near a small, wildflower-strewn valley, overlooking a skyline of trees and mist. We enjoyed a little downtime and a delicious dinner before watching a spectacular sunset blossom. Words do no justice to how peaceful and awe-inspiring it was up there. The sky was a bright tapestry of color-- just amazing.


Abby takes a well-deserved break


Enjoying the sunshine




"Thanksgiving" dinner


The beginnings of an incredible sunset









Unfortunately, the departure of the sun brought on a deep chill that pierced through all of our layers of clothing. As we were not permitted to have a camp fire, most of us agreed that turning in early was probably the wisest choice. I snuggled in with Abby and Ginny and warmed up quickly ;)

Bright and early Sunday morning, after another good breakfast, we broke down our campsite, packed everything up, and started back down the mountain. If going uphill had seemed slow and tedious, going back down the mountain felt deceptively easy. That is until we stopped for lunch and I realized how much my knees and ankles were smarting.


Sunday's breakfast


The view on the way down

We made really good time on the way back and were pretty drained by the time we reached the trail head. The long bath I took once I got home was heaven and, suffice it to say, I slept like a rock that night ;)

It was definitely an incredible experience and now that I've invested in some solid backpacking gear, I'm looking forward to future trips!