Pocket Full of Pollies

grinchmas at universal studios.

2012-01-27T23:10:00.000-08:00

Thanks to a sweet friend of mine we scored free tickets to universal and since they expired on new years, we thought it would be fun to go on new years eve. We didn't arrive there until late evening, so everything was a lit up and christmasy. My sister and I were pretty excited to see grinchmas, and besides the spectacular christmas tree lighting show, the rest was a let down. From the advertisements they made it seem like they had an entire village set up of whoville characters running around. In my mind I pictured something similar to disneyland's toon town, where it feels like your in a scene from a movie. Ah well, it still was a fun night enjoying the rest of the lit up christmas streets and cute shops.

christmas stroll on the beach.

2012-01-16T00:51:00.000-08:00

On Christmas day we took little Boo, Ryan's family pup, for an afternoon stroll on zuma beach. Boo Boo is my favorite dog in the world by far. She is such a good cutie pie and having her with us on Christmas day made it that much more special. I can't wait till we have a dog of our own so I can take her or him on daily walks and runs with me.

{12 dates of christmas series: on our 3rd date of christmas}

on our 2nd date of christmas...

2011-12-20T22:49:00.000-08:00

We celebrated my birthday, good ole' December 17th! My favorite part is always midnight, when my husband is the first to shower me with birthday love. This year I was so tired I wasn't aware of the time and he surprised me with a HUGE birthday balloon, pretty roses (my favorite), and a red velvet candle lit cake. He is precious.

A much needed haircut/hydrating hair therapy was welcomed, merry carolers greeted passerby's with their cheery melodies on main street in Ventura, a family dinner outing was enjoyed & bazooki's, courtesy of my sister (the best bazooka baker) were devoured.

I really love this time of the year, and that I get to celebrate another year of life in this festive season.

on our 1st date of christmas...

2011-12-19T00:35:00.000-08:00

My boy & I went for an evening walk at zuma beach in Malibu.

Fresh ocean air & a pretty sunset was welcomed.

And climbing mini sand hills made me very happy!

Then our all-time favorite fish-n-chips shack, Malibu Seafood, filled our tummies.

Food always tastes that much more delicious when surrounded by colorful christmas lights and a beautiful view of the sunset ocean.

12 dates of christmas.

2011-12-14T00:48:00.000-08:00

I felt that what better way to celebrate this lovely time of the year

than with 12 little dates with my husband?

Exactly.

So I joined in on marci's 12 dates of christmas idea, which her friend naomi spread the word on.

Join in! And if you do, send me a link :)

be here now.

2011-11-29T23:10:00.000-08:00

for thanksgiving, the husband & i enjoyed 3 different family gatherings. i got to spend sometime visiting with my grandma and grandpa on my dad's side. i made my grandma a batch of chocolate chip cookies (specially for her) since it's her faavorite. then we all went to my mom's side at my nina's ranch and feasted over a delicious meal in a cozy home surrounded by lots and lots of lovely family. we ended the night visiting ryan's family and his grandma who flew in for the holiday, and it was so nice just sitting around chatting.

i used to think it was kinda a hassle to visit all these families in one day, but really, it made me realize how special each and every family is and how many loved ones i am so thankful to have in my life. i love family.

{oh yeaa, thought i should mention ryan and i saw the muppets thanksgiving night and it was pretty darn cute. minus the fact that i can't stay awake during movies past 8pm anymore for the life of me. i'm old}.

as of lately.

2011-11-23T13:47:00.000-08:00

as of late i've been thankful for simple things like...

comfortable winter clothes aka cooler weather

fruit.fruit.fruit. loving persimmons

raisin box quote on the lid: "change will come; it's a lifetime guarantee"

more random quotes: "let a smile be your nametag"

dr. conkey's candy & coffee co.

2011-11-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

have you ever been to dr. coney's candy & coffee co? if you are ever near simi valley area please do!

you'll be glad you did.

i stumbled upon this treasure cove while running errands during dusk with the husband. it was a rainy dark night and the lit up sign of this little store immediately drew my attention. ryan already knew about this place and was happy to be the first person to take me there (uhhh, how had i not been here before having grown up so close in the area?)

that changed quickly.

this is so funnn because it's a shopping/gift store filled with antiques and pretty things to take with you and decorate your home with (i scored a vintage wooden calendar, pictures to come later). but it's also a bakery/coffee/candy shop! this is the place to find

your holiday cup of chai latte or bundle of homemade fudge goodness.

i know we'll be visiting soon, my now favorite local coffee shop.

{i apologize for the bad quality photos}

cozy mornings.

2011-11-18T10:27:00.000-08:00

quiet, cozy mornings are absolute bliss. mornings like this*: waking up in a warm cabin in the forest, driving in the rain with my husband to a waffle cafe full of sweet, heart warming aromas.

*from our trip to lake arrowhead

on a happy friday side note, thank you to naomi for sharing this past week that marcel the shell is back!! with a book in tow and a possible tv show! hurrah!

muse costume ball.

2011-11-11T18:38:00.000-08:00

tea party alice fox spirit

she wants revenge concert

beetlejuice dj

ryan drove us here with my eyes closed just to show me this wonderful lit up sign, knowing i would appreciate it. love the little things he does to show he's thinking of me.

I know I'm playing catch up here (my dearest apologies for being absent around here as of late): October 29th the husband and I celebrated Halloween at the Muse Costume Ball at LACMA. We love Halloween, and the mystical vibe of the event was quite entertaining. Personally I'm used to dressing up every Halloween and seeing lots of little people in costume since I work with children. This year it sure was the sight to see sooo many adults dressed up and go all the way out. No slutty costumes here...(sorry if you like that kinda thing) but there were so many creative costumes that night. My favorite was a lady dressed as Coraline and her friend as the other mother. I love!

Best part, unfortunately no pictures could be taken, was the limited Tim Burton exhibit. Seeing sketches of the movies I love forming on paper was amazing, and so was seeing the original hands of Edward Sissorhands! Burton rules.

oh, happy 11/11/11 & Veterans Day!

lake arrowhead.

2011-10-20T11:40:00.000-07:00

Weekend getaway to Lake Arrowhead with the DeLang family.
Thunder storms at night, smell of rain in the forest, boat rides on the lake,
watching movies in bed, good food, sleeping in a cozy loft, family bonding time...

I love little family trips.

a quote.

2011-10-13T14:28:00.000-07:00

via tumblr

"When a woman has a kingdom heart, she has an active understanding of what matters most to the heart of God. She lives in the balance of passion and contentment. She learns to love well, give without regard to self, and forgive without hesitation. The woman with a kingdom heart may have a duffel bag full of possessions or enough treasures to fill a mansion, but she has learned to hold them with an open hand. Hold everything with open hands. I don't think we are ever allowed to grab hold of anything or anyone as though they matter more than the kingdom of heaven. When you hold relationships with open hands, then people come in and out of your life as gifts of grace to be cherished and enjoyed, not objects to be owned and manipulated. And then when you hold your dreams with open hands, you get to watch God resurrect what seemed dead and multiply what seemed small."

A Beautiful Offering, by Angela Thomas

mother & daughter outing.

2011-10-11T10:38:00.000-07:00

i'm really enjoying our local town's farmers market in moorpark. the friendly, health vibe definitely took me back to the markets up in northern california. but it was even better because i was able to go with my mom!

i love mother daughter evenings tasting and picking fresh fruit while browsing ideas for lovely handmade jewelry for my grandma to make. i'm thinking this needs to happen more often.

afternoon working at the farm.

2011-10-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

I am enjoying the outdoor fall working atmosphere. It's different from my normal day to day job which is mainly spent indoors, despite some outdoor playtime for the kids.

Well happy Friday folks! Enjoy your weekends and remember to count your blessings.

busy bee.

2011-10-04T20:59:00.000-07:00

I have some good news to share that I realized I never actually shared on the blog because I've been so, so busy. I got the job {I dreamed about since having to leave my last job that I loved too} as a teacher at Tutor Time! When I say that everyone always asks me if I'm a tutor. Thing is, despite the confusing Tutor Time title, it's actually a child care/ day care center for infants- 12 year olds. Best part is, I get to work with all ages! I've been working for about a month now and I love it.

Working 8-10 hours monday through friday is keeping me quite busy but that's not all. I decided it would be fun back in September to work at the Underwood Fall Harvest Festival *in the town I grew up in, Moorpark. What better way to spend my weekends making a little extra cash on the side while being surrounded by the BEST fall atmosphere. Basically on top of my full-time job, I work at the festival on the weekends (sat AND sun) 8 hours a day all of October! Sheesh, just saying that makes me tired. Last weekend was my first time working and it is quite fun!

*Get excited for lots and lots of fall harvest photos from the festival I'll be working at :)

adorable kitty moment.

2011-09-29T19:43:00.000-07:00

When I walk in on this adorable sight of kitty love, my heart can't help but swell with happiness. I love my babies. And how they never cease to make me laugh
and oh so proud of the little family we've all become. {This is what happens when you hold off on the babies}. I accidentally left my towel on the bathroom counter and when I came back they managed to pull it into the sink and make a little bed to cuddle in. Genius! Survival of the fittest I tell ya... {i kid, i kid}. I guess the point of this post was to share this adorable photo and share how much love I have for these kitties of ours. Despite the messy inconvenience of sharing our bathroom with their litter box, these moments make up for it.

pssst, check out Kimiko's {the kitty on the far right) eyebrow lines. so cute.

ventura county fair :: part II.

2011-09-28T20:13:00.000-07:00

ahh, well finally here is the rest of our ventura county fair day in photos. to view part one go here. i just love sister bonding time.

{domo!!!//sisters//great heights}

(our cousin nick with his cute pig//lots of attractions//guinea pig with a fancy hairdo}

{cute house & little face peeking out }

{ whoa. mama.}

{silhouette}

{heritage turkeys just sounds fun}

{sister getting jesus stickers from the cute ole' lady}

{sugar rush}

{i wanted to bring this beautiful baby home}

{stripes everywhere}

{ryan & i went on this during our first dating years}

{we almost bought tickets to go. weshouldhave}

{cinnamon roasted almonds//hot chocolate//fresh kettle corn//chocolate chip cookie}

{sister dates}

fall playlist.

2011-09-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

{Bowerbirds//Grampall Jookabox//Radical Face}

{Foster The People//Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros//Dark Was The Night: Curated by the Dessner brothers, the album is a mixture of unreleased originals and well-crafted covers from indie luminaries}

{Ben Folds//Pixies//Passion Pit}

{Imogen Heap//jónsi//Feist}

{rain//Mike Snow//Muse}

{The Xx//Rock Kills Kid//Dead Man's Bones: ryan gosling is a favorite of mine}

These are a huge compilation of tunes that I will be cheerfully listening to for the next month or so. Fall is my favorite season, and just something about the fellow artists mentioned above, seem to illuminate the happy, mystical mood I'm in.

Do you have any music fall favorites?? Please share! My list can never be too long...

picnic by the lake.

2011-09-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Spring salad//fresh strawberries//cool crisp apple cider//sweet husband//lovely duckling companions//pine trees//scenic lake view

These are the little moments that I savor from our time living up north together. We lived about 5 minutes from this lake and often made day visits there to just picnic or feed the friendly {sometimes aggressive) ducklings. I'm even more excited to continue these little family traditions Ryan and I have created as a couple {and best friendsss).

So, if you find even the slightest empty hours this weekend, do yourself a favor and go on a picnic with the loved ones in your life. Nothing like fresh air and the sunny outdoors to soothe a soul.

Have a lovely weekend!

little messages.

2011-09-14T18:39:00.000-07:00

i love my hubs and receiving sweet little messages that turn any frown upside down.

ventura county fair :: part I.

2011-09-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

Back in the beginning of August, my sister and I went to the good ole' annual Ventura County Fair. Something about being surrounded by the vibrant, energetic atmosphere made me feel like a little girl.

Lemonade stands, farm animals, ice-cream cones, crazy twisty rides, twinkling lights, stuffed animals everywhere. See for yourself:

september 11th.

2011-09-11T01:24:00.000-07:00

Tiles of America

If there is to be peace in the world,
There must be peace in the nations.
If there is to be peace in the nations,
There must be peace in the cities.
If there is to be peace in the cities,
There must be peace between neighbors.
If there is to be peace between neighbors,
There must be peace in the home.
If there is to be peace in the home,
There must be peace in the heart.

-Lao Tzu

state street venturing.

2011-09-06T00:00:00.001-07:00

Wandering around sunny Santa Barbara {last post here}.
   Enthralled my all the intricate patterns that surround me.
   Dinner at The Sandbar, such good mexican food in an island cove atmosphere.
   Sangria with white wine is delish and refreshing.

Love beach days, but I'm missing the forest.

to the city we go.

2011-09-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

One of the first places we went to once we moved back home was a trip to Hollywood, Los Angeles. {My heart will always and forever be in San Francisco, but I'm trying to open my eyes to the beauty of this city}. I really enjoyed revisiting all the places I used to go to. A nice long stroll with my family along Melrose, browsing through all the shops Ryan and I used to visit, was quite nice. I also scored two pretty head scarves at the local vintage shop! {they will be in an upcoming post soon featuring all my thrift/vintage finds from the last two years}.

Oh and don't you love the snazzy onesie/overall/romper outfit my sister is modeling? I wish she bought it, hah!

a quote.

2011-08-31T23:22:00.000-07:00

Here are some *words of wisdom I've been focusing as of late.

So simple & true.

Inspiring, eh?

*quote via holstee's manifesto.

sweet s i x t e e n.

2011-08-26T15:28:00.000-07:00

HAPPY SWEET 16 TO MY BEAUTIFUL BABY SISTER!!!!

(also my best friend/sidekick).

Today is my sister's birthday and these photos are from her birthday dinner last Friday. I, with the help of Ari's friends and our parentals, threw Ari a surprise party! It was so much fun (and quite the challenge) trying to keep everything TOP SECRET from this little girl. See, in my family Ari is known as the ACORN (our hometown, Moorpark's newspaper). It's difficult to keep anything from her and she always seems to know what's going on!

...On to my point, it was hilarious how many times I actually had to lie to my sister. Little clues kept popping up the week before and she would report them to my mom who would inform me. Such as the time when Ari was over and saw, included in my huge to do list on my fridge: plan party. I had to pull that one off by vaguely bringing up another party for a friend who is getting married that I was help planning. To make it more realistic I asked her to help me with invites that Saturday, the day after her party. (see i'm sneaky). Luckily, She fell for it.

Besides all the fun I had secret planning and baking chocolate brownies, the best part was the surprise look on Ari's face. Priceless. She almost ran away she was shocked. Of course after she started to fit pieces of my lying puzzle together, but the party was a success!

ilovemysister.

everyday is a new beginning.

2011-08-25T01:15:00.000-07:00

2::Button shirt, $35
5::Miss Selfridge capri jeans, £37
6::TOMS metallic green shoes, $69
1::Deux Lux back pack bag, $69
4::Antique brass jewelry, $25
3::Floral jewelry
7::Monsoon buckle belt, £10
9::The Container Store > Bright Stockholm Pencil Cup, $4.99
8::Bold Fashioned Journal, $27
10::Next Chapter Glasses, $12
PRINT::Paul Smith T-shirt - Japan Earthquake Appeal T-shirt, $175

This is the first year where I no longer have the jitter bugs for new classes and the excitement for "back to school" outfits. Yes, I know sounds kinda lame but since I can remember I was always excited to enter the school year with a fresh perspective and of course some new kicks and some pretty school supplies. So in tribute to some of my favorite little traditions, this set* I feel encompasses everything I would like for my first back to school outfit. Now I'll just have to create outfits in real life now for work! {i'll always be a little school girl at heart}.

I just read an old back to school post of mine and am amazed and a little teary eyed at all my husband and I have accomplished together in the last two years at SSU. It's insane how fast time flew. Those will be in my mind no doubt some of the best years of our lives. And to think we have a lifetime ahead of us....I'm thrilled!

*to see other sets (i'm new to polyvore...and addicted) go to brianna-renee.

la playa.

2011-08-23T18:33:00.000-07:00

It's funny how almost every year, around this time at summers close, I feel an inkling to be spending all my moments at the beach.

Blue skies. Sailboats. Sun rays. White sundresses. People walking/biking/jogging everywhere.

These are the little things I love most about summertime. Sometimes it's just nice to get out of the house and know I'm only less than an hour from the beautiful ocean shore. Since Ryan's been working ungodly amounts of hours at work (50+), it's necessary that we spend some quality time on the weekends. So, we took a little day trip to the beach! Day trip just makes it sound that much more exciting! A little fresh air by the seashore was just what we needed.

p.s. thanks to da girl busy bee lauren for sharing this post from kaelah bee. very refreshing indeed.

butterfly garden.

2011-08-14T22:23:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite little day trips was when Ryan and I went to Hallberg's Butterfly Gardens on the outskirts of Sebastopal. I really enjoyed walking among the gardens by the pretty orchards and vineyards. Such a lovely area to explore.

wedding bells.

2011-08-09T00:05:00.000-07:00

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in

my heart)i am never without it(anywhere

i go you go,my dear;and whatever is done

by only me is your doing,my darling)

i fear

no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want

no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)

and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant

and whatever a sun will always sing is you



here is the deepest secret nobody knows

(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud

and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows

higher than soul can hope or mind can hide)

and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart



i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

ee cummings

My dear friend Dana tied the knot with her sweet hubs Ryan recently and let me just say she made one stunning bride. I love this girl and am so excited for her and what the future holds. This poem is dedicated to this beautiful couple not only because e.e. cummings is her favorite poet {he is brilliant} but because it captures young love growing old in each other's arms.

Cheers for married couple dates! eeeeeeee

yellow hues.

2011-08-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

I took some snaps of hints and tones of yellow one day in our old apartment before we moved our little abode. Having spent endless hours stuck indoors packing I was craving a little sunshine in my life, and I began noticing all the little bits of yellow around our home and this was how this little collage came to be.

It's intriguing how colors affect us, whether we notice it or not. There is a whole science behind color tones and how they play an everyday role in our lives. My happy color is yellow. I just can't help but feel a glowing warmth of cheerfulness whenever it's near.

What's your happy color?

birthday dinner: part II

2011-07-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

spicy tuna rolls

ramen: chicken, noodles, egg

chef david

chef ryan

sparkler dancing

favorite couple

birthday girl!

After a day hiking at Armstrong Redwood Forest and soaking in the sun at Johnson's beach we sure built up an appetite. A quick trip to the grocery store for a few essential items and a stop at our place for goodies we already had (it's a nice thing that we lived in the same complex), we were well on our way to making one of the most DELICIOUS homemade meals. Of course the boys did all the cooking (we are lucky girls!) while we snacked on edamame and sipped on sake.*

After our meal of spicy tuna rolls + california rolls + chicken ramen (i told you we were h u n g r y), we celebrated with red velvet cupcakes made by Ryan and green tea mochi!! Ryan and I had a bag of left over sparklers from the 4th, so we took the party outside to dance in the night with glowing sticks of amazingness.

I really miss these two. I'm crossing my fingers they move down here next year!

*my dear friend christa was cheering & taking "shots" of sake while this divine japanese rice beverage is meant to be savored.... she's just that cute.

bestie's birthday:part 1

2011-07-28T10:37:00.000-07:00

1- armstrong forest. 2- the crew. 3- birthday girl in a tree cave. 4- gigantic redwood tree.

5- hub's + me. 6- piece of natural art. 7- surrounded by trees + more beautiful trees. 8- the boys.

9+10+11+12- soaking up the sun at johnson's beach.

25th family reunion.

2011-07-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

Saturday was our 25th family reunion! It was so nice to see everyone and catch up. I feel very blessed to have such a unique bunch of people to call family. I love how each family wears different colors: the Frutos (my side) wears baby blue. When we are all together, we all resemble a family rainbow with all the dark blue, yellow, green, red, burgundy hues together. The best part about moving closer to home is being so close to family.

i love mi familia.

little bike ride adventure.

2011-07-22T11:57:00.000-07:00

While living up north, we found many scenic bike routes and one hot summer evening we decided to go on one. Our little adventure at first was quite peaceful until I heard a loud "ZAP!" on the side of my back and milliseconds later felt a shaper stinging pain which resulted with me screeching to a stop on my bike. Let me tell you... it is not fun being stung while zooming down on a slope. It was in fact painful. I can deal with a shot, maybe two. But this felt like I was given a shot every 5 seconds in continuous spasms for 3 hours.

As we headed back to the car, we bumped into some paramedics who were fixing the elevator that got stuck (with people in it) we were about to go in. They informed me I had not only been stung once by a wasp, but two times! ayeeee. Guess it makes up for a lifetime of never having been stung...ever, haha*

*good news: i was not allergic! hurrah!

making our move.

2011-07-20T14:31:00.000-07:00

P A C K I N G M O V I N G
{using newspapers, magazines, fabric scraps} {boxing, labeling. it's a process....}

H O M E !

I apologize for being absent as of late. It's been a week since we've made the BIG move and we're still busy settling into our new home. I tell ya, moving is quite the process but I know a majority of you all understand since many blogger friends are moving right now too. Apparently July is the month to pack up your things and move!

Cheers to change and new beginnings!

I have a few more Nor Cal posts coming your way, so stay tuned!

2 years.

2011-07-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I have been married for exactly 2 years today!

I love this guy more and more everyday.

We still have a lot of growing up to do but,

I'm content knowing we get to grow and travel on our journey together.

OMNIA VICIT AMOR

{love conquers all}

{this is the message inscribed on both our promise rings and wedding rings, our belief which unites us together}

hot air balloon ride.

2011-07-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Ry and I rose early in the morning for a 5am hot air balloon ride! Why so early you (and I) ask? Well, there is a pretty good explanation...it's safest to fly either early in the morning or late in the evening because the air/wind is calm. Hey works for me, I'd like to land in one piece.

There was something quite peaceful about floating in the sky across beautiful Napa Valley, especially so early in the morning. Very refreshing and a great way to get some perspective in the very beginning of your day, eh?!

After our adventure of floating above in a basket and balloon (sooo cool!) we commemorated with a complimentary brunch topped with fresh mimosas. Yummm.

I'm so happy we finally got to go on our hot air balloon ride! It was a birthday gift from Ryan's dad last year and we were waiting for the perfect weather/season, and it was sure worth the wait!

independence day.

2011-07-05T01:50:00.000-07:00

We kicked off our celebration for the 4th of July on Johnson's beach. The weather was so hot, a swim in the russian river was a much welcomed relief. There is something so timeless when I'm out about in nature. It's as if time stops just for that moment.

After our swim in the river, we walked around the quaint downtown area visiting the cute shops, letting the sun dry us off.

Then we stopped to pick up some sparklers. My favorite!

Picked up the simplest ingredients at out market to make a delicious beverage: Peach Collins. Inspired by the lovely cupcakesandcashmere.

Fun Fact: Emily from cupcakesandcashmere was the 2nd blog I subscribed to 3 1/2 years ago before I began blogging!

Whip yourself up this lovely concoction, recipe here.

The hubs made a delicious summer dinner which consisted of corn on the cob, burgers, pinto beans, macaroni & cheese, potatoes and a couple slices of watermelon for dessert! We packed everything up and ate a family style picnic while watching the fireworks show at a park.

Happy 4th friends!

disneyland at night.

2011-07-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

Isn't it just magical how Disneyland transforms from day to night? I just love the firework show (which was amazing!) and how everything is all lit up like christmas. It illuminates details that are not as noticeable in the daytime. Like the pretty heart shaped lamps I could take home with me!

(daytime pictures of disneyland from this trip, view here).

fort bragg wedding.

2011-06-30T03:49:00.000-07:00

On June 10th, we were honored to attend a wedding celebration for our dear friends Reiley & Kristin. The wedding took place in Fort Bragg, nestled among majestic redwood trees (sigh) on top of a mountain overlooking the good ole northern california ocean.

Every detail was so beautiful: the stunning bride and groom, the lovely ceremony, vibrant sunflowers, pathways lit up by candles glowing in mason jars, the engraved tree carvings. What I loved most was how small and intimate the wedding was. It was an eye opening experience to be apart of an intimate wedding, where the lovely bride and groom were surrounded by close family and friends. Most weddings are consumed with large masses, where the bride and groom barely manage a hello or share a special moment with all their guests, but this was different. Special and very touching.

Thank you to our friends for having us share such a beautiful evening celebrating your beautiful marriage! Cheers to young newlyweds!

birthday mama.

2011-06-22T14:12:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to my beautiful mama, who I love oh so much!

This woman is a daily inspiration in my life and I appreciate her very much.

She's a blessing as my mother, teacher, and best friend.

I wish I could be there to celebrate but I'm moving home soon, soon!

I LOVE YOU MOM!

san francisco.

2011-06-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

The day after we graduated, my brother and his fiance ventured with us over to San Francisco. It's always fun playing tour guide in my favorite city, showing them around Pier 39, Lombard Street, China Town, and Little Italy. It was the perfect day well spent with one of our favorite couples.

one last hurrah before the big move.

2011-06-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

My dear friends Christa and David threw Ryan and I a last hurrah with everyone together goodbye party. We had a lovely time surrounded by good food, wine, and great company. I'm going to miss these people quite a bit.

Thanks friends!

to my dad.

2011-06-19T01:03:00.000-07:00

vegas wedding chapel, 2007 i believe.

This photo pretty much sums up why I love my dad sooo much. Besides the fact that he has a big heart and is the most loving dad I know...he's a total dorkis (apparently so are his daughters) who always makes me laugh and see the positive side of things. He's a wise man, and I'm lucky he's my dad.

Happy Father's Day to my dad and all the daddy's out there!

our day at disneyland!

2011-06-14T23:55:00.000-07:00

We spent a lovely day at disneyland with our two good friends from up North, Christa & David, and my little sis, Ari. It was the perfect end to a hectic, memorable year and the perfect fresh start for the summer. I felt a little nostalgic as Ryan and and I are officially moving back home this summer. I'm going to miss beautiful Northern California and many peeps, ahem Christa & David, like crazy. I'm also really excited to be closer to my family. I'm learning this is the natural process of life and it's times like this that change will help us grow.

Now, a day of disney through the lens...

I love these people.

SSU 2011.

2011-06-13T00:41:00.000-07:00

We officially graduated!!!

On May 28 2011 Ryan and I walked together with diplomas in Liberal Studies in hand!

And boy it felt good. We began college together and finished together. I'm so lucky to have had my best friend/ husband {who by the way is a genius}to learn and grow with. We took every class together because we truly enjoy each other's company and luckily have many similar interests and passions.

{mom, sister ari, ry, me, dad}

{ry, his dad, me}

{cyndee, ry, me, brother john}

{lili, deb, ry, me, mike, dashel}

{olga, ry, me, gracie}

{classic johnny boy!}

{love this photo of my sister & dad}

{ry, me, john sandwich}

A HUGE thanks to our amazing family who supported and encouraged us with big hearts.

We love you.

herbal facial steam.

2011-05-18T22:19:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but I've been feeling pretty stressed out lately with the end of my school and work year ending, and sometimes all I need to combat the crankies is some perspective and a little "me" time. This Aromatherapy site has all sorts of lovely concoctions that soothe and relax. Facial steams are also so great because they help detox, hydrate and nourish your skin! My go to recipe once a week has been this simple facial rose water steam:

1. Boil water

2. Place dried rose petals in a bowl

3. Pour boiled water over the petals

4. Add 2 drops of lemon oil + 1/2 cup of chamomile herb + 1 drop of lavender oil

4. Cover your head with a towel and place it over the bowl to prevent steam from escaping

5. Steam your face for 10-15 minutes

6. Pat your face dry with a towel and (apply a facial mask for deep cleaning)
then apply a light moisturizer.

Voilà! Rejuvenated baby soft skin!

monday musings.

2011-05-16T22:32:00.000-07:00

2 classes down, 2 more to go! Gahh, don't you just hate finals week?

Well, it's more like finals month over here, but enough about that!

Likes for today:

.picking up our caps & gowns!

.our pretty white tassels

. completing my last college presentation & paper, ever! muhaha :)

.eating a humungo salad for dinner at fresh choice finished off with vanilla ice-cream in a little cone

.pretty macaroons from ry's birthday

. my mama's mini records collection

.discussing our future with my best friend over a cup of tea

.calming pitter patter of rain outside my bedroom window

.snuggling with my kitties in bed

.all my lovely blogger pals, you guys rock!

x.o.

teacher wardrobe.

2011-05-14T22:09:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I like to browse on the interwebs and pick out outfits for certain occasions I'm looking forward to. Basically, this is my grown up version of playing dress up (although there is proof I've played dress up in my 20s but shhh we'll dismiss that one for today). I kinda, sorta love these dresses from modcloth, and can't help but see myself wearing these as a future teacher with a class full of my very own little students! I'm already beginning to add cute and modest clothing items to my "teacher wardrobe! " Paired with a cardigan, and I'm ready to go...

C L A S S I C B L U E S

B L A C K S & W H I T E S

N e u t r a l s

V I B R A N T H U E S

Can you guess which one is called the "Coloring Book Dress?"*

Actually now that I think about it, much of this clothing resembles the retro/vintage fashion my mom wore in the beginning of her teaching career. Now if she'll only let me alter a few things she used to wear...hint hint, hah.

She was always a classy, modest dresser and I'm proud to say we have very similar tastes in clothing. I have learned quite a few things from my mama and I'm really thankful I'm going to have her as my number one resource as a teacher, and not just for fashion sense! (ahem, creative lesson planning ideas!)

*if it wasn't already obvious, the teacher in me must inform: the last one in the 4th row!

bits of ry's birthday, part II.

2011-05-14T12:30:00.000-07:00

dreamy bicycles.

just for fun.

beautiful view of the city behind us.

this is why I love beach towns.

tree lights near sidewalk cafes.

i want one!

pretty trees & buildings.

this man's work of art: balancing rocks, amazing!

homemade goodness.

chocolate chip cooke dough!

California poppy!

We celebrated Ry's 22 years of life adventuring in Sausalito, the cute coastal town mentioned here. Boy was it a beautiful, sunny day!

Perfect for a sunday adventure.

fire by night.

2011-05-11T23:05:00.000-07:00

After spending parts of our day here, here, and here we ended our day together overlooking the bay. I for one was transfixed by the beauty of the golden & red hues of the glowing bridge at night time and the clear view of the city lights twinkling across the waters. I cannot explain what a luxury it's been living

less than an hour from San Francisco these past two years. I sure love my city by the bay.

keep on moving.

2011-05-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

via weheartit

This quote stuck out to me because it's so relevant to everything going on in my life right now. Running, hiking, stretching, swimming are all things I need in my life on a daily basis.

I'm not sure why it took this long to realize this, but the act of moving is a pure and simple part of my life that keeps me whole and connected and is something I need to pursue on many different realms and levels. Never ever, will I take my ability to move freely for granted.

bits of ry's birthday, part I.

2011-05-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

my birthday boy.

sift's red velvet cupcakes.

historic downtown in sausalito.

art house studio we happily stumbled upon had a

wall dedicated to 365 iphone photo project.

we fell in love & bought this print!

sausalito shores.

More pictures to come of Sausalito, a new favorite beach town of mine!

happy mama's day!

2011-05-08T21:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's day to the kindest, wisest, gorgeous, loving mama I know.

I look up to my mom so much, and aspire to be just like her one day to my own child.

I'm truly blessed to call this beautiful woman, inside and out, my mom.

& a happy birthday to my man!

i love you so much and will always cherish the day you were born into this world.

scenes on pier 39.

2011-05-03T09:01:00.000-07:00

If your a San Franciscian, I know Pier 39 can be overrated at times, but there's something special about taking mini visits to the tourist locations where you live. I can actually feel the excitement from other travelers in the air. Walking past all the sweet scented bakeries, fresh fruit stands, silly side walk entertainment, and carousels makes me feel giddy like a little girl all over again. Plus, the location makes for a romantic date with my hubs where we love to visit our favorite quirky stores, such as the magic and candy shop, and eat the best clam chowder bread bowl soup with a side of sweet potato fries. Also, on a beautiful day such as today, the view of the bay & bridge during sunset is breathtaking.

adventures in golden gate park.

2011-04-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

I love visiting golden gate park and wish that it was only a walk away. I feel like I could venture along the pathways for hours on end walking, biking, running, you name it. I'm thinking this Spring calls for a bike ride along the golden gate bridge, through the park, and a little picnic while everything is so colorful and blooming. I believe that every town should have a beautiful park like this where people feel free to explore and mingle outside in the fresh air!

xo & happy friday!

union street.

2011-04-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Ry and I ventured over to union street in San Francisco walking in and out of little boutique shops, admiring the city life around and all the cute aromatic cafes. We stopped by American Cupcake for a little pick me up snack. Cutest cupcake place ever. Twinkling neon pink lights (even in the bathroom) best menu in terms of variety...they have these little cupcake flights which consist of 3 mini cupcakes & 3 tastes of wine or beer. Pretty clever idea, although I don't know about you but I will always prefer a glass of milk with my red velvet cupcake. And go figure they have milkshakes too!

Gotta love cupcake bakeries!

Do you have a favorite cupcakery or cupcake flavor?

scenes from an easter sunday.

2011-04-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

We shared a beautiful sunny day together, strolling around spring lake, eating jelly beans, and enjoying our little tradition of preparing little easter baskets for each other.

And of course rejoicing.

despite the allergies, i'm thankful for spring and the birth of new life and new beginnings.

mr. easter bunny.

2011-04-25T19:25:00.001-07:00

On Saturday Ry & I worked at an easter egg hunt for the little ones and their families.

A few weeks before we helped paint the cutest signs, if I do say so myself (pictured above).

Would you have guessed that my Ryzors is under that bunny suit?! Hah!

He's such a good sport. Some kids were so ecstatic to hug the easter bunny while others had crying fits...most were happy though!

best easter bunny ever.

jane eyre.

2011-04-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Jane Eyre:

"Remember, the shadows are just as important as the light."

Mr. Brocklehurst: And what is hell? Can you tell me that?

Young Jane: A pit full of fire.

Mr. Brocklehurst: And should you like to fall into that pit, and to be burning there forever?

Young Jane: No sir.

Mr. Brocklehurst: What must you do to avoid it?

Young Jane: Keep well and and not die, sir.

Last night Ry & I went finally went to see Jane Eyre*. First we picked up some thai food at the Thai House (such a cute restaurant in downtown SR) and brought our steamy bowls of curry & rice to the movie with us. I always love our movie dates especially after a long day at work, and at first I was unsure about the movie but I absolutely loved it! Such a whimsical, ethereal, gothic film. I love Jane. I admired her character's sense of morality, independence, and wit. Now I can't wait to read the book! Cheers to making my summer book list!

*a special thanks to the husband, who works two jobs, one of which allows us to see free movies!

daydreaming.

2011-04-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago Ry & I made a day trip out to Stinson Beach in which I mentioned over here. Lately I've been reminiscing over all the fun little trips we've made, and how much I'm craving another another getaway, really soon. I'm daydreaming about another trip to the cute quaint town of Stinson Beach, only this time make it a stay cation:

we'd spend the night at this adorable bed & breakfast and possibly

enjoy cups of tea & coffee over delectable pastries and fruit

I wouldn't mind if Ry picked some wildflowers for me while we visit the cutest seaside bookstore

and then we'd scavenge through some thrifty items, maybe bringing a thing or two home as a souvenir

go for bike rides through the scenic routes

admire all the quirky decorations of a beach town

take a nap in the sun on a pretty hammock, maybe even get a little sun tan

spend some quality time exploring lovely northern ca with my lovie.

THE END.

single step.

2011-04-19T00:00:00.001-07:00

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

- Lao Tse

Thank you all for the kind thoughts. I am beginning to feel better, and more like myself, which is a pretty nice feeling. Once I'm 100% better I plan on going on a detox. And no, I don't mean detox as in not eating for days on end and drinking grapefruit concoctions. That's too extreme and defeats the purpose of a healthy detox. So, if you have any books, sites, or advice you'd like to offer, puh-lease do! Or you can also join me, blogger support at its best!

Don't worry, I'll still be your friend if you choose not to give up the sweets and what nots. Just don't go posting about cupcakes and sugar and all....yikes!

xo, Bri

remedies.

2011-04-17T18:15:00.000-07:00

My apologies for been absent as of late. This past week I've been a busy bee with exams and work. Unfortunately, I'm stuck inside on a pretty sunday tending to my sore throat and fever...boo. But no worries! This evening I'm going to share all the remedies that have always proved best for me in fighting off a fever and sore throat.

1. gargle away with salt & hot/warm water.

2. sip on a cup of chamomile or green tea. soothing at it's best.

3. hydrate, hydrate! drink plenty of room temperature water.

4. one for the day. one for the night. and one for in-between.

5. these suckers work wonders.

6. vitamin it up!

7. alba deep sea facial mask. i figure this is the best time to use a face mask since all those feverish sweats give easy access to cleansing those pores!

8. keep your temperature in check with a thermometer (i always thought those things were cool as a kid!) rub vicks vapor on chest and neck, then apply warm towel.

9. pile up the blankets, catch some zzz's and ahh relax.

Alright, now that I look like I'm a drug addict medicinal weirdo, I hope if you happen to catch a little bug this helps. Enjoy your Sunday lovies and go outside on an evening walk for me. :)

aroma roasters.

2011-04-11T00:31:00.000-07:00

Enjoying a cup of oregon chai tea latte while gazing out the window with my sweetie. Mmmhmm, let me tell you I love all kinds of chai, but this particular one hit the spot. Aroma Roasters is definitely one of my favorite cafés to simply chit chat over a cup of goodness and enjoy the quaint view of downtown.

On a random note, maybe one day we'll own our own café! Actually one of my dreams is to own a cute ole' bed & breakfast when we get old. Wooden floors, big windows, glass mugs, floral china, shelves filled with books, homemade pies!...sigh. I sure am a grandma at heart.

breakfast of champions.

2011-04-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

mmhm, this is the breakfast I made for dinner on Saint Patrick's day. I wanted to make something special for the hubs and of course breakfast foods are much easier for me to make. It came out quite well if I may say so.

. Pretty grapefruit for a bargain at the market. amazing.

. Eggs scrambled with potatoes & bits of turkey

. Pancakes accompanied by the most delicious (most expensive) maple syrup I've ever tasted in a

pretty bottle

. Glass of milk in my favorite glass mugs

I'm working my way up to cooking a more dynamic range of foods in the kitchen, but breakfast meals will always do too.

my roots go deep.

2011-04-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

One of the best parts about living away from where I grew up, is visiting home. It's such a warm feeling coming home to familiar faces, streets, and sights that I know by heart. I've always had love for the simple details that are often overlooked, but my sense of appreciation has grown infinitely. This is partly due with age but mainly my experiences in life thus far. Marriage, moving away, completing college (graduation date 28 of may!), even blogging have all opened my eyes to greater depths. No matter where I am, I feel so happy to call this place home.

Driving through scenic routes with green rolling hills, quirky palm trees, quaint towns passing old-fashioned brick buildings, sweet ole' victorian homes, fruit stands with the people I love is something I could get used to. Rummaging through all my mom's vintage items of fun sized records and playing with the cats, Peanut & Popcorns is da bomb diggity. How did I ever get so lucky?

Papa Chuy.

2011-04-04T13:38:00.000-07:00

This past week I went back home to celebrate the life of my grandpa, Papa Chuy.

He will always be remembered as a kind, loving grandpa and we will all miss him very dearly.

R.I.P Papa Chuy.

little critters.

2011-03-25T13:13:00.000-07:00

Aren't these little ones so cute?

We would happily take all these babies home except for the fact that we already have three of our own at home, and I'm not so sure it'd go down well. Just think: birds chirping, cats attacking cute birds chirping, guinea pigs squeaking because crazy cats attacking birds chirping. No bueno.

But at least they were fun to play with.

We call them our pet shop friends.

p.s. i've been working on a little house cleaning on the blog. i'm enjoying the new look. clean & fresh, just in time for spring!

good day.

2011-03-22T00:36:00.000-07:00

Sometimes all it takes for me to have a good day:

Little white bow in my hair,

wearing my favorite striped sweater [found last year for $2 at goodwill!],

eating lots of salad with bell peppers + garbanzo + kidney beans,

almost all of Everybody Loves Raymond on DVD thanks to my bebe,

baking batches of lemon bread [way to addicting]

oh and sleeping in.

i need those zzzzzzz's.

spring is in the air.

2011-03-21T00:28:00.000-07:00

Heart shaped bowl I discovered at the dollar store in japan town

has been officially filled with blueberries and blackberries...yum!

Pretty japanese bottle that now makes the perfect home for my flower.

Can you say I love all things Japanese?

Or that I'm excited for little bits of spring to start popping up here and there?

YES!

for japan with love.

2011-03-17T21:05:00.000-07:00

Sending positive thoughts & healing prayers to Japan in their time of need may seem trivial in comparison to what the country is going through, yet it is one of the most powerful things we can do. This past week my blog over here has been pretty quiet because I've been contemplating over how sad and terrifying it must be for all the people of Japan right now.

For the past few months Ryan and I were making plans in the following year to apply to Japan's JET program to go overseas to teach English abroad for a year. Now I want to go more than ever and help in any way I can, but I'm also aware that leaving home to help others means sacrificing my time with my family (and I've been living 8+ hours away from them for two years) and time with family is precious. Who knows what the future holds.

Thanks to utterlyengaged.com I will be participating as a blogger in a Day of Silence tomorrow, Friday, March 18th. All this means is no posts on Friday, in memory for the victims of Japan.

and any little bit helps...

ShelterBox provide emergency shelter and lifesaving supplies for families around the world who are affected by disasters at the time when they need it the most.

Please visit For Japan With Love to learn more about this cause and donate to the relief efforts

xo.

date night.

2011-03-09T23:11:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, we met up with our good friends for a bowling night.

Some fun was definitely had. [let's just say, ryzors & I may have or may not have won*, not that we were competing or anything.] Who knows though, next time they may show us up.

*Fun Fact: Apparently Ryan used to be on a competitive bowling league back in middle school! Ahhh, more and more reasons to love this guy.

point reyes.

2011-03-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday we made a day trip over to Point Reyes which happens to be the second foggiest place on the North American continent. BUT, to our surprise it was a bright blue sunny day! The scenic windy drive alone was reason to go to this place. So peaceful and beautiful. Not to mention the breathtaking views from the top of the mountain (happy sigh). We originally were hoping to see some whales way out in the blue waters but we're too absorbed in adventuring around the rest of the area. Hopefully come late March, we'll make another point reyes visit to actually sit down and watch the baby whales and their mamas swimming close to shore!

Below is a photo of a burrowing owl! I think I may have squealed!

She popped up in awe at the big bus we were in. Cutest expression ever.

& a little hello from the tule elk. precious.