This Old House....

This old house is more like this wee 1200 square foot LA condo, but still, it means the same to me. I might as well have lived a lifetime here, for this house holds many life moments that I will never forget. I got engaged and married in this house, brought home my first baby in this house and not to mention learned more about home improvement than ever before in this house. This house is a home. From yellow walls to my new favorite griege, I have learned that a home is more than just new kitchen cabinets and travertine bathrooms, a home is only a home because of the people who share it with you. And because my people are coming with me, my home and memories will travel as well. So as I pack my bags and sort through my junk drawer, I can't help but be sad to leave this place. No more frogs singing me to sleep, no more tennis balls flying into my car, no more Sagebrush Cantina cover bands late at night.... I will miss you little house, and I can only hope that the next family that lands here loves you just as much.

Sometimes You Take a Little Break...

Or a really long one... here goes my 2nd shot at successfully keeping up with a blog - however, this time its going to take on a little twist. You see a lot has changed since the spring and we are on the verge (next week) of moving to Portland and this blog is going to serve as a way to keep in touch with all of our Cali loved ones. So here goes...

Quickie update: we had a baby, Logan. We are moving to Portland (August) and life as we know it will never be the same.

They Call It Nesting...

I happen to call it, being sick on my couch for 2 months and noticing all the things in my house that were wrong. So we have begun operation home projects 2010. It will probably be our last major remodel for a while, so we didn't skimp on knocking off all the items on our list. Number 1 and perhaps my favorite is the master bath re-do.... its being completed as I speak, but here are some during pictures.

Now, before you judge - this is my shower with the amazing new travertine and glass tile. Believe me, with grout and all the lighting installed, this baby is my dream shower. Hopefully, we will be wrapping it up shortly. Next on the list, whole house flooring? I'm going to have to convince the hubby of this one - but I don't think I can stare at my carpet for one more day!

A reasonable absence

So, we each get a mulligan. A do-over. Well, excuse my nearly month and a half absence, I do have a reasonable excuse. It comes in the form of a growing gaggle of cells that has taken over my existence and my body. This has come in the form of much needed extra food, the occurrence of nightly sour stomach and more blood tests that any of these vampire shows can possibly compete with. That's right, the Matthies are multiplying. Whew... weird to say it out loud. I have no doubt that this little one will fit right in with our loud life, however, I am trying to enjoy any and all of the last quiet moments of my life.

Sugar+Bliss

Two of my favorite things, together in one place. My lovely college suite mate and friend alike has started her own business. If you live anywhere in Arizona, I'm sure you have tried them or are on your way to Scottsdale to get your hands on them. I am in LA and still waiting to get my first bite. However, I can say with confidence that they are wonderful. I am dying for a Red Velvet Cakelette. So head on over to SugarBliss Bakehouse and order up some sweets just in time for Valentine's Day!

Farm Forward

Came across this information from watching an Ellen rerun and just had to share. If you are like me and eat meat but are concerned about your sources, mainly the farms that produce your meat, you must check out this website and this book:

Farm Forward

http://www.farmforward.com/

Eating Animals: By Jonathan Safran Foer

This is something that once you learn about it, you simply cannot ignore. Its a major discussion about the treatment of the animals that are at these "farms" as well as what they are ingesting that is passed on to us. Its not just about the humane treatment of animals, but the environmental effects of the mass production of animals. We need to know what we are putting into our bodies, this is two birds with one stone people! I am personally making the commitment to purchase from those farms that promote free range and humane treatment, Whole Foods is a great source to start!

Most recently, California passed Proposition 2 : The Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act, a major victory in this battle of educating the public and demanding better quality of life. How many people were horrified by the video the HSUS released showing the abuse of cattle using the back hoe - it seems that people are finally being given access the reality of our current situation. We cannot trust that our food is delivered to us from a friendly farmer in overalls. So do your best to support those farms are trying to do it right!

And there it is...

Off the Grid for a while, I have been enjoying or rather participating in some much needed work training and now I feel a better sense of direction in my new career path. I have been reminded of the value of removing oneself from the "comfort zone." Only when we try something new can we meet the people that come along with it, and I have been incredibly lucky in that aspect. I enjoy expanding my circle and I really enjoy getting to know people you feel like you were always meant to be friends with. Nothing can take the place of your oldest and dearest friend, but sometimes, you never know when your newest friend might be just what you need.