Monthly Archives: May 2012

FRESH SQUEEZED PHOTOS: Lindsey

As much as I love a good three day weekend, having my work week start on a Tuesday throws me off. It took me hours to realize today is Wednesday and not Tuesday. I hope you’re a bit more tuned into reality than I am this fine Wednesday afternoon.

1. I moustache you a question…dress up in Leavenworth, WA 2. The downtown Seattle Nordstrom 3. Little miss Avalon Mae (my niece) at a week old 4. Roomies! Miss Meg, Miss Melissa, and me 5. My favorite building in Kirkland, WA 6. Self-portrait 7. Some journal time, coffee, and the news 8. I like my coffee black and my belts gold

Looking forward to next time…

FRESH SQUEEZED PHOTOS: Stesha

Well we finally made it home last night and I can’t believe it is all ready Wednesday! I have a feeling we’re in for a huge game of catchup this week….and unfortunately not the tomato kind you dip your fries into.

1. An early morning trek to CA 2. Vacation Day One: Take your dog to the Vet… Fun 3. Roses at Chapman 4. Anyone up for Canning? Me too! 5. Avgolemono Soup 6. Even Ryan goes antique-ing 7. Do your neighbors bring you tomato plants? Ours do. 8. Nasty Going Home Pouty Face

Catch you later,

MONDAY MOVE: 65 days

While texting my sister-in-law this week I came face-to-face with the odd feeling of living a double life. It would be easy to say that my past is Seattle and my future is Orange County, but what about my present?

Conversations, no matter how hard I try, make their way to what’s-on-your-Seattle-bucket-list talk. My to-do list is covered in before-the-move scribbles. Ready-to-be-packed boxes fill the back of my car and corner of my room. Grad school deadline reminders fill my email inbox. Wedding tasks overtake my mind. All the while I have a Saved by the Bell episode playing in my head. The one where Jessie takes too many caffeine pills and ends up in Zack’s arms crying, “there’s never any time,” and misses the Hot Fudge Sundae’s big debut at The Max. I don’t want to miss my debut at The Max. I especially don’t want Screech to fill in for me.

My present is foggy, unstable, exhilarating.

I’m not living in the moment. Everything can be categorized into, a. this will be my past very shortly, or b. this will be my present very shortly. There isn’t a “right now.”

I’m desperately yearning for a “right now.” Just a couple moments that have nothing whatsoever to do with moving, saying goodbye, or grad school. A few moments of peace. Certainty.

I’m sorry if this is a bit depressing. Please know I am NOT depressed. Note the word “exhilarating” I used a few moments ago. Honestly, I’m living the most exciting time of my life and it is exhilarating. You can bet your bottom dollar (whatever that means) I’m loving it. I just would also like to dance and sing in my own music video without worry of how everything is going to work out.

Moving is difficult, worrisome, and tiring. Jessie might have been onto something with those caffeine pills.

Just kidding.

But seriously, I have never wanted/needed to cram so much into so little time. I’m challenged everyday. My compartmentalization is being put to the test hourly. I’m drinking coffee like it’s going of style and filling every spare moment with friends and sightseeing. In 65 days I might be yelling, “there’s never enough time,” but I will know in my soul that I did all I could with the time I had.

This is most definitely not a time to let little miss introvert out. My extrovert is working overtime and loving it.

And with all of this going through my head, the most difficult question is whether to get rid of my wonderfully large scarf collection. Thoughts?

SUNDAY BRUNCH: Old Vine Cafe

We’ve gone into full vacation mode over here.

And it’s the best kind of vacation mindset where you barely know what day of the week it is. I love that.

Of course we had to collect our thoughts come brunch time. Despite appearances (or lack thereof lately) we all have priorities, and even on vacation I owe you a Sunday Brunch report.

Southern California isn’t known for being particularly crunchy. Hell, down here shopping is practically a sport. So when we discovered The Camp in Costa Mesa it truly felt like a oasis in a metaphorical desert.

It was a triple threat: beautiful sustainable landscaping (hello GORGEOUS succulents!), a community bicycle program, and tons of stores devoted to organic and handcrafted goods. The only thing left to explore were the culinary offerings.

So we headed over to the raved about Old Vine Cafe for a little mid morning food fest. Thankfully we made it in before the rush, although I wouldn’t have minded a bit of a wait in the nearby hammock. Who doesn’t love hammocks?

Menus on canvas? Clever…

Overall the atmosphere gets a gold star. It was beautiful, airy and clean. The food while mostly delicious was a bit more hit and miss. The highlights included the Santa Fe Quiche and the gooey amazing apple butter. Seriously, bottle that stuff. I’ll buy.

Best moment of the morning? Realizing that the text I thought said “reserved or compact” in the parking spaces were actually motivating quotes.

That alone was worth the trip. Don’t judge, I’m all about the simple pleasures today.

Any funky brunch spots near you? Ready to get your BBQ on tomorrow? Us too!

Until then,

SUNDAY BRUNCH: Thorp Antiques and Fruit Stand

Do you ever just want to hop in the car, roll down the windows, turn the music up loud, and drive?

I do almost everyday, but today it actually happened.

We (my friend Amanda and I) took a mini road trip to Thorp Washington. I had never been to Thorp. Also, I had never heard of Thorp, but when Amanda brought the idea up I could hardly stand still. All she had to say was “road trip.” I was sold.

I find freedom in the combination of open road, loud music, and wind blown hair. The cool fresh air from the still snowy mountain tops rejuvenating us with every turn. Coming alive with every country song blasting through the speakers. I felt renewed. My spirit was fully awake and happy to be.

I was amazed when we arrived to Thorp. The only sign of life was in a three story warehouse building: Thorp Fruit and Antique Mall.

Heck yes! We spent three hours carefully searching through the two floors of antiques. Probably an hour of it we were fully having a dress up party. I’m the proud owner of a new blouse that looks like it came off the set of Now and Then.

We then headed downstairs for some brunch. We settled on some freshly picked cherries, a local trail mix, and of course coffee. We used my shirt as a tablecloth :)

This wasn’t your typical brunch, but it wasn’t your typical day either. I’m content knowing I spent my time on the open road with a dear friend and not in a restaurant. Don’t get me wrong, I love restaurants, but they have never left me feeling rejuvenated, peaceful, and just grateful to be alive the way a road trip does. Even if it is just for a day.

Sadly, our road trip had to come to an end as all things do. The sun sets. We can count on this (unless we’re somewhere like Alaska, but even then it does eventually).

How does your spirit come alive? Open road, over a good book, a spa day? The options are endless. Fill us in…

Happily content…

 

A Spoonful of Style: The Springtime Nanny

Nannying is not what you would call glamorous, but that is no reason to throw style out the window. Sometimes it’s a challenge to keep things practical without fearing being seen by someone you know. I had those days at work: sweats, sweatshirt, old tennis shoes, and hair thrown up, somehow looking like an animal’s nest. Over the years I have made breakthroughs in this area. I’m excited to share them with you.

This is a recent ensemble I strolled out of my little home in. Stylish. Practical. It is the perfect springtime nanny (or anyone around kids) outfit. At least I think so.

Shirt- Denim is back. I am stoked about it, especially because it is so practical. As a nanny, jeans are a go to for me since they’re casual, stylish, and can hide spills and grass stains easily. You can find this J.Crew shirt HERE, but really you can find them anywhere. I found mine at the thrift store. Score.

Shorts- Khaki shorts make me feel like I care about how I look but am also carefree. I stay close to darker tones for obvious reasons. Old Navy is my go-to when it comes to work shorts. Great quality for the price you pay. You can find them HERE.

Shoes- TOMS. Need I say more? For springtime they rock! I can keep up with kids easily in them and I don’t die of heat. They are pretty breathable. They’re also the big thing. Even paired with sweats I feel a bit more in-tune with the style of today and my fellow twenty-somethings. You can choose between a ton of styles HERE.

Bag- This bag from Sherpani saves my life! I have the yoga/laptop shoulder bag. It’s water resistant (VERY important in Seattle) and has a waterproof pocket inside (VERY important when kids are involved). The company loves the environment as well. That never hurts. I keep my life in it. Blossom (MacBook Air), books, an extra sweater/scarf, water, wallet, yoga mat, lotion, toys, snacks…you get the idea. Check out all their different bags HERE.

Sunglasses- There is nothing like a pair of big sunglasses to add a bit of glamor to any outfit. I live in these sunglasses from Nordstrom (B.P.). Best part- they only cost $12. You can’t find this pair online, but definitely checkout their other sunglasses HERE.

Phone case- These phone cases from TNA (a Canadian based company and part of Aritzia) add the perfect pop of color and protection for my iPhone. Take a look at them HERE. Unfortunately, you can only buy them in stores. They are well worth the trip though!

All you moms, nannies, and really anyone who spends a significant time with kids, what are your go to pieces?

LOVE FEST FRIDAY: Starbucks’ We-Love-You Fridays

Who doesn’t need a pick-me-up coffee on Friday afternoons? I tend to hit the coffee pot/shop Friday mornings, afternoons, and evenings.  Before you think that I’m somewhere up there on Gilmore Girls coffee drinking status you should know I order half-cafs after my morning jolt. Most of the time. Although I do aspire to be them.

Back to my point…

Starbucks, the Seattle found coffee shop that swept our nation, knows us coffee drinkers need some extra love on Fridays. That’s why if you find yourself in Seattle today, or any upcoming Friday for that matter, walk your butt into a Starbucks (there are 9 thousand) at 3pm and you will walk away with some little free token you can use to get to know the city better. SBUX calls it “We-Love-You Fridays.” Who doesn’t love something free with their coffee?

If you want to know more go -HERE

If you’re good with the basic details, here is the gist:

Today, May 25th- walk away with one admission to SAM (Seattle Art Museum)

June 1st- walk away with four tickets to an exclusive film screening of Sister Act at The Paramount

June 8th- walk away with one admission to the Woodland Park Zoo

Maybe I will see you there…it is my mission in life to get to know Seattle up close and personal right now. Just sayin’.

I also just want to send out some love to this beautiful city! Seattle, you will always have a part of my heart.

Stesha and all you readers not in Seattle, maybe you can seek out some lovely giveaways in your area and share them with us??? Let’s spread the love people.

Happy Friday everyone and go get some love from SBUX!

Balance

I’ve lived in Vegas now for seven, almost eight years. Which is crazy.

So while Lindsey is mid-gigantic-move I’ve been trying to soak up the adventure vicariously through her. (Arn’t we all?) Especially since Ryan and I are probably rooted for quite a while due to work, home, etc. commitments.

To me, moving is comparable to the early stages of a relationship. There is tons of apprehension, excitement, new experiences and overall confusion. But then things level out and you’re left even better than before. And for someone that envisioned themselves moving a ton during their twenties, it’s a ride I’m totally envious of.

So even though we all won’t be physically moving anytime soon, I thought this was a great reminder that some level of “movement” is healthy.

Image from Neue Graphic via Etsy. Print Available HERE.  

 So whether you’re headed across the state, country or living room…remember to keep peddling.

FRESH SQUEEZED PHOTOS: Stesha

Whoopie for Wednesday!

Yeah, I felt dorky typing that. Then I realized that it has been FOREVER since I’ve had a whoopie pie and all of a sudden whoopie isn’t such a bad word.

1. Frozen yogurt is a MUST have for summertime 2. Succulent decor at West Elm 3. Roses in Bloom 4. Husband 5. Addie gets a bath! Who knew her fur was really white and not ivory? 6. We have a major Breakfast Tea project in the works – Stay tuned. 7. My new view from the captain’s chair (aka my desk) 8. Apparently I married Mr. Fantastic. I’m such a lucky girl.

What about you, any big plans for hump day? When is the last time you had a whoopie pie? Pictures to share?

Send them on over folks! goodmorning@breakfastbanter.com…

FRESH SQUEEZED PHOTOS: Lindsey

Is it Wednesday again? Oh my how the time does fly.

1. You never know what you’re gonna find in the garage 2. Fancy diner coffee from Country Village Cafe 3. Miss Melissa’s bridal shower invites are off! 4. Quinoa salad and seaweed for lunch (note the mason jar) 5. So much beautiful fabric I want to take a quilting class 6. Gettin’ my creative on with some kindergarteners 7. My new favorite band YARN at The Tractor Tavern…nothing like some live music in good old Seattle 8. Dear J.Crew, likewise. Love LMG

You know the drill, send us your fancies (photos that is) to goodmorning@breakfastbanter.com

Lots of Wednesday love…