A Restless Seattleite

Kinfolk: New Aspiration

2012-02-21T00:36:00.036-08:00

I have seen Kinfolk's magazines at Anthropologie

but never thought to browse through its contents.

But after stumbling across their videos and spending hours on their amazing website

I might just need to go pick up their magazine.

What is Kinfolk you may ask?

I couldn't say it better than their own manifesto from their site:

Kinfolk is a growing community of artists with a shared interest in small gatherings.

We recognize that there is something about a table shared by friends,

not just a wedding or once-a-year holiday extravaganza,

that anchors our relationships and energizes us.

We have come together to create Kinfolk as our collaborative way of

advocating the natural approach to entertaining that we love.

Every element of Kinfolk—

the features, photography, and general aesthetics—

are consistent with the way we feel entertaining should be:

simple, uncomplicated, and less contrived.

Kinfolk is the marriage of our appreciation for art and design

and our love for spending time with family and friends.

Honestly an inspiration of a way to live life.

If that alone doesn't get you curious or hooked like myself -

Check out the stunning videos below...

Can I live in this? Seems like the perfect gathering...

Pesto done in a simple manner.

My mouth is absolutely watering at the moment.

Now that is what I call romantic...

My Dreams Do...

2012-02-20T21:25:00.000-08:00

Fresh Flours

2012-02-19T22:56:00.000-08:00

I have become addicted to Ballard's Farmers Market.

And today I was introduced to another

fabulous cafe while wandering the market:

Fresh Flours

I didn't spend much time in the cafe itself

but their coffee was delicious.

Made to a perfection.

I paired my coffee with their

green tea and Azuki red bean muffin

which turned out to be the absolute highlight

of my morning.

Next Sunday I know where I am going to be

spending breakfast...

'I Want To Stand As Close To The Edge As I Can...'

2012-02-18T13:14:00.000-08:00

A Pablo Neruda Sonnet For Valentines Day...

2012-02-14T18:36:00.000-08:00

"You're Not Just My Partner Anymore..."

2012-02-13T18:35:00.000-08:00

I ended up checking out Haven

after hearing it was loosely based

on a Stephen King novel.

Honestly the first season

did not impress me at all.

I was doubtful of the series being

renewed for a second season.

But surprise - It did.

And this time around

they got it right.

I am hooked.

And looking forward to a third season...

Maybe the mystery of Haven can finally be solved :

With some Audrey and Nathan romance in between?

"Poor Nicholas... Tortured By A Soul He Hasn't Got."

2012-02-11T13:08:00.000-08:00

My obsession with vampires did not start with Twilight.

Nor with Dracula.

But with a cheesy show I watched at the age of 14

in the Philippines.

I have been searching for the series for what feels like

a life time.

And I have finally found it.

Forever Knight is the title

and it follows the life of a 800 year old vampire

trying to become mortal while saving the

city of Toronto one crime at a time

as a detective and cop.

This series started it all -

And here I am knee high in anything vampire themed

because of this show...

-And spending my evenings re watching it.-

DEATH!!!

2012-02-10T19:02:00.000-08:00

My barista this morning teased me that

they were serving me decaf coffee...

And this is exactly what came to mind -

DEATH BEFORE DECAF!!!

"And All Of The Places I Ain't Ever Been To..."

2012-02-09T12:56:00.000-08:00

'Down In The Valley' was a song that held so much meaning for me in 2010.
I remember the first time I heard it at The Tractor,
I was almost moved to tears.
So the anticipation of this video was just a little too much to handle.
And upon viewing it, I am overcome with emotions.
The Head And The Heart have come so far
and this video captures the perfect essence of the band's
welcoming warmth and their love of music...
And just like the song says:
'All of the places I ain't ever been to'
We see them traveling the land sharing
their positive energy with their ever growing fan base.
In a way -
They have been a band that have truly inspired me.
I'm not sure they know how much their music has meant to me.
And again: I am sounding like a cheesy 'parent',
but I couldn't be more prouder.

In Our Society Growing Food Yourself Has Become The Most Radical?

2012-02-08T23:51:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been finding myself in

situations where I am explaining to people

why I choose to become an vegetarian.

And this poster reminded me of one of the reasons...

When I am able to raise my own

chickens, pigs etc

then I would be comfortable with the food.

And I would not feel guilty about

who is getting my well earned money...

Epic Cabin Party Of 2012

2012-02-06T23:12:00.000-08:00

When: April 7th-8th

Where: Beatrice's cabin on Anderson Island.

Bring: Sleeping bags, tents, drinks and yourself. (And a friend!)

What to expect: Games, painting, floating lanterns and chats around a fire...

Interested? Contact me at tin2007@hotmail.com

" Hey Guys? Today Was The BEST Day Of My Life"

2012-02-05T21:23:00.001-08:00

I was so amazed with Chronicle that within 24 hours,

I went to see it again.

I am not sure if I am bias of the film because it was 'set'

in Seattle...
- I got to see my beloved Space Needle on the big screen. -

But oh my God -

I can not stress how much I loved this movie.
I went into the movie theater only aware
of the film being about teenagers who discover
they have super natural powers.
And that's all you should know before seeing this movie.
That and the fact that it is:
dark, twisted, weird and surprising.
(Things I am a HUGE fan of.)
I am looking forward to seeing it again...
You should see it too...

It's Friday...

2012-02-03T21:23:00.000-08:00

Trying To Keep In Mind:

2012-01-27T21:47:00.000-08:00

The Last Supper

2012-01-25T22:20:00.000-08:00

It's my last week at my apartment in Capitol Hill.

I am completely sadden by this

but at the same time I know it is bringing me closer

to something I have always wanted...

It really is a bittersweet goodbye.

Which is why I decided to have a

'Farewell Apartment' party with close girlfriends.

Pretty much this involved:

Drinks, Krittikas Thai food, and

101 different conversations in my tiny living room.

Simply the best evening in my own little space.

Thank you ladies for indulging in my

love for the place I call home.

All of us in shades of blacks and grays.

Attempt at a silly picture...

My kitchen after the party.

Drinks, boxes of empty food, and a sink of plates...

This Eggplant French Fry Is Like A Piece Of Heaven...

2012-01-21T01:23:00.000-08:00

I have heard so many good things about Poppy.

And seriously: They are all true.

Most truest of all is

how Divine their eggplant french fries are...

(And I hate eggplant!)

But don't take my word for it.

Get thee to Poppy and taste it for yourself...

Fitzgerald's List Of Things For His 11 - Year Old Daughter To Worry About -

2012-01-20T21:12:00.000-08:00

When you hear the name F. Scott Fitzgerald, a lot of things come to mind. The Jazz Age. The Lost Generation. His tumultuous married life with Zelda. His difficult friendship with Hemingway. Alcohol! But the fact that the famous author was also someone’s dear old dad probably isn’t one of them. And in fact, Fitzgerald’s relationship with his only child, Scottie, grew to be just as estranged as the one with his wife in the later years of his life.

This closing from a 1933 letter to his daughter, which was spotted by Lists of Note, reveals that even in those troubled times, he still worried about her future happiness. In case you’re curious about how things turned out for Scottie, she managed to have a pretty normal life for someone who grew up hanging around cultural icons like Dorothy Parker, Picasso, and the aforementioned Hemingway. She went on to become a journalist, writing for such publications as The New Yorker and The Washington Post, and a staunch supporter of the Democratic party. Avoiding her famous parents’ battles with mental illness and tragically early ends, Scottie died in 1986 at the age of 65.

Things to worry about:

Worry about courage
Worry about cleanliness
Worry about efficiency
Worry about horsemanship

Things not to worry about:

Don’t worry about popular opinion
Don’t worry about dolls
Don’t worry about the past
Don’t worry about the future
Don’t worry about growing up
Don’t worry about anybody getting ahead of you
Don’t worry about triumph
Don’t worry about failure unless it comes through your own fault
Don’t worry about mosquitoes
Don’t worry about flies
Don’t worry about insects in general
Don’t worry about parents
Don’t worry about boys
Don’t worry about disappointments
Don’t worry about pleasures
Don’t worry about satisfactions

Things to think about:

What am I really aiming at?

How good am I really in comparison to my contemporaries in regard to:

(a) Scholarship

(b) Do I really understand about people and am I able to get along with them?

(c) Am I trying to make my body a useful instrument or am I neglecting it?

With dearest love,
Daddy

I Want To Be A -

2012-01-17T19:04:00.000-08:00

A Great Gatsby Pillow?

2012-01-10T19:50:00.001-08:00

Who doesn't love The Great Gatsby?

I saw the bags at Barnes And Nobles

and knew I didn't want to use the bags

as well - bags but

as pillows...

And here is the final product.

Ballard Locks

2012-01-08T16:06:00.001-08:00

I love Ballard...

But the funny thing is -

I have never been to the Ballard Locks.

So Jonno and Mia took me

(Just like the child that I am)

To go watch the boats going through the locks.

It was quite interesting, fun and impressive.

Mia and me...

'Do Not Get Off During Lockage' - It's dirty...

Opening for a boat...

During the Spring apparently there is fish... Salmon that comes through.

Kiss the octopus?

Perfect Love Story - In Stop Motion

2012-01-07T14:09:00.000-08:00

Call me a sap.

But this stop motion video almost had me in tears.

It was perfect.

They even paired it with Sigur Ros music that was in Penelope

which of course made me feel all gooey.

Devour I Shall...

2012-01-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

Who's That Girl?

2012-01-04T13:43:00.000-08:00

When I heard that Zooey Deschanel was going to have a new show

I kind of felt blah about it.

I am a huge fan of She And Him.

I love her dead pan humor but New Girl

just looked like - Blah.

But curiosity got the best of me.

I checked out the first episode and I couldn't stop laughing.

A day later - I am all caught up and addicted.

Damn it...

Zooey Deschanel is too cute for her own good.

It's Been 15 Years...

2012-01-02T17:21:00.000-08:00

Yes. It has been 15 years since I have seen my

Uncle Oseas and my cousins

Percy, Namnama, and Joy.

Last time I saw them was in the Philippines as

a shy teenaged girl.

It was definitely wonderful to connect with them again.

My family is so huge that it can be

overwhelming.

But honestly nothing beats

spending time with family...

My Goal For The New Year...

2012-01-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

La Banquise

2012-01-01T22:45:00.001-08:00

When we arrived at La Banquise -

There was a line out the door in the freezing rain.

And I understand why.

Their long list of different poutines is

diverse enough to make you come back,

no matter what you are craving.

Upon finishing my dish I almost

wanted to order another one...

But thought twice of it considering it is fries.

But now that I am home

I am craving some more.

Joy, me and Steffi Poutine happy...

Mushrooms, green peppers, onions, cheese and gravy.

I finished the whole damn thing.

Random Adventures In Montreal

2012-01-01T22:26:00.000-08:00

Everyday that we went out my cousin called it an adventure.

That it was.

She only being in Montreal for 2 months and me being a tourist.

We somehow manged to get around,

and asked a lot of strangers for directions.

Completely random and complete fun.

I love traveling...

Inside Eaton Centre which is part of Montreal's Underground City.

Fuck the snow storm... I wanted to see Place Ville Marie.

Dirty boots after two days of walking in the extreme snow.

It's a glass door? A sliding door?

Whatever it is: I found it humorous.

Ringing In The New Year In Montreal

2012-01-01T00:06:00.001-08:00

People in Montreal sure know how to party!

Ringing in the New Year in Old Montreal

was an eye opener.

Seattle seemed a bit lame when it came to New Years -

That is until we saw the fireworks...

A bit disappointing.

Nonetheless it was quite the adventure

full of laughs with Cameron and Steffi.

And me trying to tell my French speaking only taxi driver

how to get home was even more humorous...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Old Montreal was full of people...

I think everyone and their Momma were there.

What is that we see?

Hooray for the New Year!

Crazy. The ice skating ring was opened till 1:30 am.

Even though it was freezing.

Happy New Year everyone!

Taking the metro to downtown was interesting.

FULL of people.

Drunk people.

I got talked to quite a bit by a girl who only spoke in French...

I didn't know how to tell her I couldn't understand...

Grocery Shopping The Montreal Way

2011-12-30T22:39:00.000-08:00

Besides using public transportation -

I love shopping at the local grocery store.

I enjoyed it more in Montreal due to everything being in French.

I got a kick out of walking around

attempting to read everything.

And was surprised by some items!!!

Cheese. They call it P'tit but I've never seen them wrapped this long.

This is milk! In plastic bags?

I'm sure I can find this at Pike Place, but this was at your

traditional grocery store.

Honey with the honey comb.

Abandoned carts due to the extreme ice and snow.

Old Montreal

2011-12-30T20:45:00.000-08:00

I fell in love with Old Montreal.

Cobble stoned streets, boutique after boutique,

and complete charm.

I didn't want to leave.

I wandered around and around

and finally gave up when

the weather got beyond cold.

The oldest street in Montreal: Rue Saint - Paul.

Snow covered cobble stone street...

I believe Van Houtte Cafe is a Montreal coffee chain

but their coffee with chocolate shavings were delicious.

Trees, benches and snow near the port.

Perfection.

They had crepes with maple syrup. It was interesting. I ate it all though!

It is snowing in Old Montreal.

And I am smitten.

Poutine fries with mushrooms and onions from tourist trap

Montreal Poutine.

Old Montreal at freezing conditions.

Sadly it was time to go home...

A Little TOO Adorable...

2011-12-30T10:47:00.000-08:00

I think Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon - Levitt are just
the most adorable people alive...
And them singing one of my favorite Holiday songs -
What Are You Doing New Years Eve
together got me all tickled happy.
Could you get any more cuter?

A Dream Partially Crushed...

2011-12-30T00:27:00.000-08:00

- Inspiring Bookstore Shakespeare And Company In Paris -

For as long as I can remember:

I have always wanted to open up a bookstore.

A cozy, indie, creative bookstore.

But with the growing increase of ebooks -

Independent bookstores and even chain bookstores

are shutting down and settling for the world of the Internet.

This completely shattered me as I have come to realize that my hopes

for a bookstore of my own is coming to an end.

Deep down inside I hope we will return to real things

instead of everything being via the Internet.

That people will start to miss the feel and the smell of a worn old book.

Or even the company of people reading together in a welcoming bookstore.

But until that day comes:

I will stash my ideas of my bookstore

deep down in the back of my vault...

The Metro

2011-12-29T21:05:00.000-08:00

I had such a fun time going from place to place

thanks to Montreal's amazing metro system.

Honestly -

Out of all the places I have visited

Theirs is the most easy to navigate.

It makes me a bit jealous...

When will my beloved Seattle

finally finish the light rail?

Art in the metro...

We suspect The Three Musketeers in this one.

A bum catching up on some sleep in the metro...

Happy me because I don't need a car

to get from point A to point B..

Basilique Notre Dame De Montreal

2011-12-29T17:34:00.001-08:00

Finding Basilique Notre Dame De Montreal

was a bit of a trek in the snow.

I first went to the wrong church!

But gladly Canadians here are super friendly

and I met someone who not only directed me to the church

but also said it was his favorite among all he has seen in the world.

Upon stepping into the church I can see why.

It is stunning, beautiful and moving.

Not grand like the churches of Rome.

I loved the blue and green colors,

the wood cravings and the

over all serene feeling you get by

just sitting in a pew.

Worth the extreme cold to find

this amazing cathedral.

Up close. I think those are wood cravings...

The upstairs with the designs.

I want the green print for my own future home.

I lite a candle...

With wishes to travel half the world next year.

I fell in love with this for some reason.

This again just took my breath away.

You look forward and it is beautiful.

Then you look up and it is also beautiful.

Your surrounded by beauty.

From the outside...

Me in the cold in front of the church.

"Can You Picture How Drop Dead Gorgeous This City Is In The Rain?"

2011-12-28T21:23:00.001-08:00

"I mean I can give you a checkmate argument for each side.

You know, I sometimes think, how is anyone ever gonna come up with a book,

or a painting, or a symphony, or a sculpture that can compete with a great city.

You can't.

Because you look around and every street, every boulevard,

is its own special art form and when you think that in the cold,

violent, meaningless universe that Paris exists, these lights.

I mean come on, there's nothing happening on Jupiter or Neptune,

but from way out in space you can see these lights,
the cafés, people drinking and singing.

For all we know, Paris is the hottest spot in the universe."

I knew by the title alone that

Midnight In Paris was going to be a favorite film.

And once I heard the synopsis -

I was already in love.

A man wandering the streets of Paris

only to be transported to the 1920's

to share drinks with some of my favorites:

F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway,

Picasso, and Salvador Dali...

I literally was jumping out of my seat with excitement.

Can you imagine discussing your work and life

with one of your heroes?

What sorts of inspiration would you be overcome with?

This movie was magical beyond words.

Woody Allan has created another gem.

And this one I will watch again and again -

To be captivated by the mystery and beauty

of Paris and all the great art that

was inspired by it.

Another Bookstore Bites The Dust...

2011-12-28T20:55:00.000-08:00

I try my best to shop at local bookstores or

especially second hand bookstores

before succumbing to a mega chain store.

But working in University Village -

Barnes And Nobles had become a sort of haven.

A place to kill time. A place to wander.

A place to relax.

So when I heard they were closing down

I was a little bummed.

Where I am going to hangout at?

The big (And much loathed by me) Starbucks?

Musee D' Art Contemporain De Montreal

2011-12-28T20:25:00.000-08:00

Upon discovering that Montreal's

contemporary art museum was free -

I made the trek in the snow to check it out.

I understand now why it is free...

It wasn't impressive.

It wasn't stunning.

It was really random.

But nonetheless -

Nothing beats wandering a museum for free!

Post it note art?

I love this gold skull.

Surrounded by feathers...

But for some reason it made me think

of bacteria...

"Jordana And I Enjoyed An Atavistic, Glorious Fortnight Of Lovemakin'; Humiliatin' Teachers And Bullies In The Week. I Have Already Turned These Moments Into The Super-8 Footage Of Memory."

2011-12-27T21:54:00.016-08:00

When I heard Alex Turner's voice singing over
the Submarine trailer I knew it was going to be a
fantastic film...
They lure you into a story which at first
gives off the impression of only being
about an awkward teenager boy's first encounter with
puppy love and well - Sex.
But honestly the film gets right down to the
insecurities that children have about their families.
It was a very refreshing approach.
I watched Submarine twice in one day
because I enjoyed it that much.
Filled with humor but with serious undertones
about how we view our parents marriage -
It is a film everyone should see,
no matter if you like hearing Alex Turner's voice or not...

What I'm Looking Forward To On My Next Trip...

2011-12-27T21:33:00.000-08:00

Christmas At The Gamponia's

2011-12-25T21:44:00.000-08:00

Something was missing with Christmas 2010

and that was the fact that Steffi wasn't able to come

home to visit...

But let the tradition of a Gamponia Holiday continue in 2011!

We ate tons of food that the aunties insisted we eat

while random people sang to their hearts content on the karaoke...

Laughs, jokes and silly pictures ensued with

Steffi, Derek and I and

by the time I got home in the wee hours of the morning

I was all smiles.

Thanks Steffi for making the Holidays bright!!!

Thumbs down for the Holidays almost being over...

"Again Steffi?!?" "Sorry..."

Me, Steffi and Derek

Merry Christmas From My Home To Yours!

2011-12-25T16:40:00.000-08:00

This has been my most favorite apartment and

January is my last month here.

(Yes expect more photos again...)

So I spent Christmas here

enjoying the decoration,

the simplicity,

and lots and lots of egg nog!

MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

I was really into making snowflakes this year...

Paper Christmas tree inspired by Anthropologie.

My theme of my Christmas tree this year?

Seattle of course.

Pine cones, rain drops, coffee sleeves

and gray ball ornaments for clouds.

All topped with the Space Needle...

Oh yes I love my city...

The People Who Matter...

2011-12-23T12:38:00.000-08:00

"Impossible Things Are Happening Every Day!"

2011-12-21T23:06:00.000-08:00

What girl

- Or in my case: Woman -

doesn't like the classic story of Cinderella?

As unrealistic as it is,

it is nice to believe that one day all your

dreams will be handed over to you.

And while watching 5th Avenue Theater's

version of Rogers and Hammerstein's

Cinderella that was exactly what I felt.

I got swept away with the beautiful dresses,

thoughts of being a princess and of course

prince charming.

The music was a bit lacking to be honest

but they made up for it in stage decoration,

costumes and the hilarious step sisters.

(Which one of them was played in drag.)
Unforgettable evening of laughs, hopes and dreams.

"They're Dangerous At Both Ends And... Crafty In The Middle. Why Would I Want Anything With A Mind Of Its Own Bobbing About Between My Legs?"

2011-12-20T23:43:00.000-08:00

The second Sherlock Holmes:

- A Game Of Shadows -

was exciting and funny

but it just didn't have that

Ooohhhh Ahhhhh Wooowww feeling.

Which surprised me since I have always been a major fan of

Robert Downey Jr and director Guy Richie...

But nonetheless -

It is as it was advertised:

Action pack with great commodore between

Watson and Holmes.

It would make a good -

Rental DVD.

Best E Card EVER

2011-12-19T22:27:00.000-08:00

Made With Love. Lots Of Love...

2011-12-18T23:44:00.000-08:00

- Chocolate Truffle Cookies with my new favorite mug -

One of my favorite things about the Holidays

other than egg nog?

The excuse to make the shit out of things.

Which is exactly what I did.

I find that creating

soothes me...

Even if it doesn't turn out perfect.

And what's even more fun?

Giving your creations away.

"Happy Holidays Everyone!"

I thought I needed to add a little something to my

Chocolate Truffle Cookies.

But I didn't intend on them looking like nipples.

Needless to say:
I did not give these out.

But it is pretty hilarious.

I got a little obsessed with creating bark.

My most favorite was the

Oreo Cookie Bark!

I found a recipe for Beer Marshmallows.

I am not sure if I like them.

But homemade marshmallows is a fun science experiment.

Thanks to my mother's old sowing machine:

I had a hell of a fun time creating very

imperfect pillows for close friends.

Maybe by Spring I will be making dresses...

Handel's Messiah

2011-12-18T17:46:00.000-08:00

Having grown up with only listening to

classical, musicals, and Christian music

but only to branch out to more

'worldly' music as an adult -

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed listening to

Handel's Messiah at Benaroya Hall with my Mother.

Even more surprised by how much I remembered

from performing it as a child.

I initially went as a gift for my Mother who was in all smiles

during the show

but in the end it was also a sort of gift for myself.

Sometimes I forget how beautiful something can be

even if it's in relation to something religious...

Photo 30: In My Bag

2011-12-18T13:27:00.000-08:00

"You Make Perfect Scrambled Eggs!"

2011-12-17T23:08:00.000-08:00

Tradition!!!

As we have done for more then 3 years -

Get together, eat food and be merry.

And in deed it was fun because we have been

reunited with Mary who has returned from South Korea!

We sadly had too much fun chatting to take photos

but me, Tricia and Mary were able to snag one

in front of the gnome Christmas tree before

the evening was over!

(Until next year - Happy Holidays!)

Photo 29: Relaxation

2011-12-17T13:25:00.000-08:00

Photo 28: My Desk

2011-12-16T13:24:00.000-08:00

- I don't work at a desk and I don't have one at home.

So I would consider my nightstand as my desk... -

"We Are Not Fucking Puppy Dogs!!!"

2011-12-16T12:47:00.000-08:00

I am so majorly late in catching up with

True Blood: Season 4.

And I don't care what other people say.

I loved this season.

It may be of the extra screen time

Eric Northman aka Alexander Skarsgard got.

It may be of all the gooey cheesy love everyone has for Sookie.

I don't know what it was but it caused me to be

mad crazy about True Blood all over again.

Something season 3 did not do for me.

So here's to Alan Ball getting back on track

and now I can not wait for Season 5.

(I want it now please...)

Don't Panic...

2011-12-15T03:22:00.000-08:00

Ok... I will...

Leavenworth 2011

2011-12-14T00:04:00.001-08:00

I have always wanted to go to Leavenworth for the Holiday Lights.

Oddly I have only visited during the Spring time.

So I was ecstatic when my family said

they wanted to make the road trip.

I was in complete bliss.

Not only because of the lights and the festive spirit

Leavenworth puts you in but because

of the cold weather and snow.

Needless to say -

Leavenworth for the Holiday season

was a perfect mini vacation...

Crowds and crowds of people

for the lighting.

Lights!

Spaetize noodles with cheese and caramelized onions at Cafe Christa. Delish delish delish.

Pretzel Christmas tree at The Danish Bakery.

Breakfast! Danish pastry...

Everything is in this font. Even Bank Of America and Starbucks.

Feeling cold? They had these little fires pits around the block.

Snow clusters. I found them very pretty...

Photo 24: Favorite Object

2011-12-12T13:21:00.000-08:00

-I thought and thought about what was

my favorite object and as always

it ends up being my vintage piano-

Photo 21: Gratitude

2011-12-09T13:18:00.000-08:00

Photo 20: Landscape

2011-12-08T13:17:00.000-08:00

Photo 19: Hands

2011-12-07T13:16:00.000-08:00

(I could only take a photo of one hand cause my other hand was holding the camera of course.)

Photo 18: Journey To Work

2011-12-06T13:15:00.000-08:00

What Is Magic?

2011-12-05T23:26:00.000-08:00

Photo 17: My Favorite Beverage

2011-12-05T13:14:00.000-08:00

Photo 16: In My Fridge

2011-12-04T13:13:00.000-08:00

(Left over from Thanksgiving...)

Photo 14: Purchased

2011-12-02T18:58:00.000-08:00

"Life Is Only On Earth. And Not For Long..."

2011-12-01T19:15:00.000-08:00

I was drawn to Melancholia because

it was reviewed as a

beautiful movie about the end of the world.

I convinced one of my good friends to view it with me,

claiming it had to be one of the best movies ever.

The first eight minutes of the film was

a stunning (Yet confusing.)

visual sequence set to Richard Wagner's

Tristan Und Isolde.
Now eight minutes felt like a long time...
And once the movie actually begun,
I was already becoming irritated.
(And I even love classical music!)
It was filled with family awkwardness,
slow dialog, and despair.
I found myself more impressed with the tiny details:
The decor, settings and landscape.
That was what made the film beautiful.
It is like one big giant piece of art.
It should be a painting.
Or a music video.
Just not a movie.
As to whether I liked it or not?
I am not sure.
I feel like I need to re watch it again.
And perhaps skip the first eight minutes...

The trailer: Which I did not view before the film.

Photo 13: My Front Door

2011-12-01T18:57:00.000-08:00

Photo 12: Someone I Love

2011-11-30T18:56:00.000-08:00

The Sooner I See The World...

2011-11-29T23:58:00.000-08:00

Which Way?

2011-11-29T23:32:00.001-08:00

Photo 11: Favorite Color

2011-11-29T13:33:00.000-08:00

"I Think To Be A Well-Rounded Person, You Have To Experience Good And Bad, Wonderful Moments And Pain." - Adrien Brody

2011-11-28T23:32:00.000-08:00

I don't know what got me in the mood to

watch as many Adrien Brody films as possible.

But that is exactly what I did this week...

I watched:

Dummy, The Jacket, Darjeeling Limited
The Village, Hollywoodland, The Pianist
and
Love the Hard Way

After many hours of watching him on screen
I have come to this conclusion:
Adrien Brody is a
beautiful, talent and smart person.
He just sometimes chooses wonderful roles
in somewhat week movies.
Which to a larger audience -
might make him appear
himself as a week actor
when in fact he isn't.
I hope he continues to play conflicted and interesting characters
but in much stronger films.

Photo 10: View From My Window

2011-11-28T13:32:00.000-08:00

"Snake Doctor, We May Have A problem." "What Kind Of Problem?" " The Fully Automatic Kind."

2011-11-28T00:28:00.000-08:00

Let's be honest.
I don't really believe in the Army.
I have a tiny bit of faith in other areas of our government
but the Army is not one of them.
So it completely shocked me when I ended up
getting majorly addicted to
The Unit.
A series that follows the lives of five men
in a black opt unit.
Every time I forced myself to turn off the TV
(To actually get some rest.)
I would question myself:
Why in the world do you like this?
And I have finally come to an answer.
The Unit gave me a bleak eye into what I have
always believed about the Army.
Sometimes you do things for your country
not because it is right or wrong -
But because you were ordered to do so.
It was nice to see a series
that didn't sugar coat what it means to work
for your country.
It is bloody, it is selfish, and it is blind.
But that doesn't always mean the people are too.
It was those elements depicted in the show
that I really enjoyed.
Paired with some world politics and witty dialog -
It is a series I will own and re watch again and again...

Photo 9: Shoes

2011-11-27T13:31:00.000-08:00

Photo 8: Morning Routine

2011-11-26T13:30:00.000-08:00

Photo 7: Self Protrait

2011-11-25T13:29:00.000-08:00

Can Love Happen In 24 Hours?

2011-11-25T00:38:00.000-08:00

When I start to miss a place,
I either look for music, books or movies to
sort of 'bring' me back to it.
I was missing London when I stumbled onto
Forget Me Not.
Sort of an indie film gem,
it immediately drew me into the
some what sad dialog between the
two leading characters -
Which was put to the amazing landscape of London.
The movie wasn't only my fix for the
beautiful city I was missing,
but also gave me a bit of hope
in a certain area where I have become
extremely jaded.
(Love)

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2011-11-24T18:27:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving again

fell on me.

Mother was working at the hospital

and of course I had the day off already

to prepare and cook.

This year I did less dishes but

more people contributed so we had

10 times the more food!

It was wonderful.

And we seriously stuffed ourselves silly.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

This is only half of the food made.

My plate - Along with turkey.

Yes. I the vegetarian ate turkey.

But it was turkey that died happy.

(Not eating its own shit.)

Mia and Jonno joined us for Thanksgiving.

It was lovely.

My first attempt at glutton free pumpkin pie.

According to Mia :

Not bad.

But I shall perfect it.

Photo 6: Breakfast

2011-11-24T13:26:00.000-08:00

Photo 5: My Handwriting

2011-11-23T13:24:00.000-08:00

Keep In Mind This Thanksgiving...

2011-11-23T00:35:00.000-08:00

Photo 4: The Sky

2011-11-22T13:23:00.000-08:00

'Gnomeo, Are We Really Doomed To Never See Each Other Again? Why Must You Wear A Blue Hat? Why Couldn't It Be Red Like My Father, Or Green Like... Like A Leprechaun... Or Purple Like, Ummm, Like Some Weird Guy .'

2011-11-22T01:12:00.001-08:00

Gnomeo And Juliet was one of those movies on

my must see in the theater list

but life kept getting in the way

of me having fun and

giving me the time to go see it.

Now that I have seen it

I am completely mad with myself.

It was like Romeo And Juliet gone happy.

There is a family feud but at least:

It ends with no one dead.

And what made it more delightful?

Listening to the voices of

James McAvoy and Emily Blunt.

Now if you haven't seen it yourself:

Shame on you.

Cause this movie will just brighten your day.

Photo 3: What I'm Reading

2011-11-21T13:20:00.000-08:00

The Shrine / An Argument...

2011-11-21T13:11:00.024-08:00

I have always considered Fleet Foxes to be one of the most musically
creative and stunning band of our time.

And their new music video just reconfirmed it for me.

This video is out of this world strange but at the same time it

is in perfect harmony with the music.

It just ends up making sense.

Brilliantly done Fleet Foxes...

Fantasy Lights

2011-11-20T18:52:00.001-08:00

My mother claims she used to take me to

Fantasy Lights as a child.

But I honestly don't have any

memory of it.

So it was interesting and fun to rediscover it.

We walked in the freezing cold

laughing and singing songs

from Nightmare Before Christmas.

It is not even Thanksgiving yet

and I am already psyched for Christmas!

Mia and me freezing by twinkling snowflakes.

It's Santa on a boat!

I fell in love with this tree.

I want it in my backyard.

If I had a backyard...

Photo 2: My Closet

2011-11-20T13:13:00.000-08:00

How To Show Someone That You Love Them...

2011-11-20T12:48:00.000-08:00

Photo 1: Where I Sleep

2011-11-19T13:12:00.000-08:00

30 Day Photo Challenge

2011-11-18T12:46:00.000-08:00

I came across this while browsing the

ever addicting and interesting blogs on Tumblr.

The idea is to post a photo per day from the list.

I will start tomorrow

and try to keep it as creative as possible!

Rain On A Good Day. Rain On A Bad Day...

2011-11-15T23:58:00.000-08:00

"For Those Who Are Lost, There Will Always Be Cities That Feel Like Home..."

2011-11-15T01:10:00.000-08:00

I initially was drawn to

Everything Beautiful Began After

because of the book cover.

Then upon reading the name -

I decided to just go ahead and buy it.

I started reading it without a clue what it was about.

And the more I read, the more I was impressed.
Simon Van Booy writes with the soul of an wise
and older person.
Someone not from this era.
It was like reading poetry more than
reading a novel.
And by the end I was crying and
(At the risk of sounding cheesy.)
felt like a breath of life was blown into me.
There is no way to describe the book other than saying:
It was beautiful.

Millions Of Bananas

2011-11-14T23:50:00.000-08:00

I typical don't like bananas.

Actually, I hate them.

But when my co teacher suggested I take

the left over bananas from work

(Instead of wasting them.)

to bake some muffins -

I couldn't say no.

I had tons of fun cooking these muffins

though I myself wouldn't eat them!

Banana Muffins:

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 bananas, mashed
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/3 cup butter, melted
(I Added These Ingredients)
1 bag chocolate chips
1/3 cup chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease 10 muffin cups, or line with muffin papers.

2.In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened.
Then add chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, pumpkin spice and vanilla extract.
Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.

3.Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean.

"For A Few Immortals To Live, Many People Must Die."

2011-11-14T22:29:00.000-08:00

I am not a fan of Justin Timberlake.

He has never done anything to influence

my decision on not liking him.

I just don't like him.

But to be fair and open minded -

I went along with some friends who really

wanted to see his new movie

In Time.
I was surprised to see Cillian Murphy in this film
and seeing him on screen definitely caught my attention
but the movie otherwise was lacking.
Character build up was weak,
lines weren't that good
and let's not get into what I think of the acting
but despite all that -
It had an interesting message that could be
targeted at our class system in our society.
After the movie we started talking about it:
Rich verses poor in terms of
health care, healthy food and better education.
If the writers goal was to send awareness
(To those of us that choose to be ignorant.)
about our class system and the long term affects of
poverty and bad education
then I would consider this film a success.

Flight Of The Frenchies

2011-11-13T13:02:00.000-08:00

The trailer for Flight Of The Frenchies

left me completely impressed.

In fact, I am speechless.

While watching this

I felt the need to be more free.

Take risks

Get out more.

Live.

Apparently there is a 40 minute documentary

now available online

and you can also support them at

http://www.sebmontaz.com/

Cool Is A Concept Devoid Of All Meaning...

2011-11-12T13:26:00.000-08:00

I'd Rather Be This French Bulldog...

2011-11-09T04:54:00.000-08:00

"Whenever We Needed Money, We'd Rob The Airport. To Us, It Was Better Than Citibank."

2011-11-08T22:35:00.000-08:00

Goodfellas really got my attention.

I have always been a fan of mob movies

but this one ten times more

due to the fact that it is based on a true story.

It's funny how the main character is a complete asshole

and yet you end up rooting for him the whole time.

Definitely a movie I need to have in my collection

and perhaps a book I need to read...

Show Me...

2011-11-07T23:59:00.000-08:00

Modern day note from My Fair Lady?

Show Me Now!

My Favorite Prince Charming

2011-11-06T00:42:00.000-07:00

I am not sure how the topic of Disney's
prince charmings came up
but I found myself discussing why
Prince Eric was my favorite prince charming.
And funny thing is -
It wasn't about looks but more about personality.
(I know but humor me.)
He loves music, he travels on a boat,
has an adorable dog,
loves to help people
and he fights for his true love though she is a mermaid...
I mean what's not to love?
Somethings (Since my childhood.)
does not change.
Prince Eric will always be my favorite
prince charming
no matter how old I get...

Top 15 - November Mixtape

2011-11-05T01:07:00.000-07:00

The Playlist:

Crying Lightningg - Arctic Monkeys
Muscle Museum - Muse
What's This? - Nightmare Before Christmas Soundtrack
Bon Voyage - Drew Grow And The Pastors' Wives
Hagrid's Beard - Harry And The Potters
St Germain - Vanessa Paradis
Deep Cuts - Cataldo
Eating Paper - David Bazan
I'm Sorry - Feist
Delicate - Damien Rice
Naked As We Came - Iron And Wine
Misread - Kings Of Convenience
An Ocean And A Rock - Lisa Hannigan
Winter Wonderland - Ella Fitzgerald
Dawn - Pride And Prejudice Soundtrack