EcoEtique

Let's Talk on the Phone This Week (Really)

2011-10-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

One of the easiest, yet most satisfying ways I keep in touch with friends is with a phone call--sometimes several times a week, but at the very least half a dozen times a month. And this past week, I had an influx of delightful rings from my nearest and dearest. There was a heart-to-heart on why a friend's "combat boot-wearing Clark Kent" love interest was more interesting in sharing his chocolate chip cookie recipes instead of a glass of wine. While on the receiving end of a transcontinental call, I was encouraged to "lead with my heart and not my head" but not be so "CB" (read: Carrie Bradshaw) when it came to new men in my life. And it isn't unusual for me to save a few of these humorous voicemails ("Grandma!" "Cocoa Caliente!" "Grams, are you in your 'jams already?!"). The phone call is as direct a form of communication you can get without actually having to be in the same room with that person. Unlike other modern-ish correspondence like texting or instant messaging, a phone's most exceptional quality comes from being able to keep a conversation's score, so to speak.

No amount of emoticons can take the place of hearing a friend's in-the-moment vocal reactions, whether it's because of a lunch-break debate over outfit potentials for the evening (it's chilly, but I just shaved by legs, so skirt for dinner girlfriend?), or a two-hour dialogue about what each other's serious and silly goals--become fluent in Spanish, start an interior design company, hire another beautiful soap opera-worthy intern, etc. There's something undoubtedly heartening and genuine in hearing your friend's uncontrollable laughter after sharing some buffoonery of foreign, yet utterly amusing British slang.

Today, having a new job that keeps me out of the house a good 11 hours a day, five days a week, my social playtime became understandably limited, with 9-5 business hours and (gasp) weekends no longer applying to me. It also meant letting go of those occasional, but much-coveted happy hours at Barbarella.

In the end, rather than let a career force me to purge all social interaction, it's helped redefine it. Time is valuable for everyone these days, and I try to make every minute spent with a friend, count. Perhaps, in this way, it serves as a healthy reminder that when it comes to investing time in friendships--it should always be about quality not quantity, especially when you want to make that five-minute "ketchup" chat in between meetings, matter to you both.

Related: Listen More, Talk Less, Ask Questions

Men Sure Don't Dance Like They Used To.

2011-10-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

St. Vincent

2011-09-13T01:06:00.000-07:00

I'm slightly (but in an oh-so-healthy way) obsessed with St. Vincent. Especially this song, her album is out today.

Bang Bang

2011-08-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

Bang. Bang. As of late my bangs have gotten too long for comfort. Side swept is cool and all, but I'm still going in to get them trimmed tomorrow. Chop. Chop.

Screwy Dating Affairs: Guitar Strings

2011-08-11T02:18:00.000-07:00

I used to think that screwy dating affairs could only originate from a certain breed of young types -- the sort of folks who'd often put themselves in those socially horrifying and irresponsible situations because well, they enjoyed late-night, drug-induced trysts, and partying with the wrong crowd, and therefore were wholly responsible for whatever dating catastrophes happened upon them.
Boy, were my theories lacking research.

A lifetime of playing a bachelor(ette) isn't even required to understand what all the hubbub is about. In the past year of my singledom status, I've been blessed with many a chivalrous moment as being told by *writer guy, "I think we should see each other for a few hours this weekend;" being emailed a list of I'll-make-love-to-you songs by *car guy; and *tv guy who simply insisting on sending me a list of get-to-know-you questions before our date (you know, the one that never happened).

I suspect every man has over the years honed his own special method for gaining the affection of women (even if it's for one night). I once interviewed a guy who authored his first novel on bedding women by way of a little saute and garnish. A totally interesting guy -- and for a reason, he carried a holy sensual agenda that most single gals would come to know. And Danny Devito implies a little more than safe sex with his monster condom bit. To be fair, this isn't an original Devito Pièce de résistance as I had the pleasure (er, no pun intended) of experiencing this same triumphant act while on a date with *Guitar strings.

*Guitar strings was making me laugh to the point that I could hardly finish my prosciutto and wine. Entertaining was second nature to him, as he performed for a living, natch. As a lead singer, he was more than accustomed to girls screaming at his sweaty body as it pulsated across stage at the House of Blues and the Viper Room. Dinner soon concluded and we began exiting our booth. *Guitar strings smiled one last time at me as he turned to reach for his jacket. As he did a glimmering gold piece came flying out of his jacket and directly found itself a new home atop the check on the table. Blinking, I bent closer to see what I thought a recognizable logo. And that's when I realized what I was looking at.

Yes, I suddenly found myself standing in the middle of a very populated dining room, next to a guy who I'd just finish dinner with ... and who'd just casually let a Magnum condom tumble out of the privacy of his duds and into public view for all of West Hollywood to witness over their antipastos.

I nervously laughed and pointed to the still-glimmering package, turned to him and asked, "Ha, so, you trying to leave our waitress a tip or something?"

To this day, I still can't decide if the in-flight Magnum or the distressing + horrified look that immediately settled on his face was the better of entertainment to me that night -- either way *Guitar strings delivered a great performance.

Adventure Journal - How Girl Scout Cookies Kill Orangutans

2011-08-08T19:32:00.000-07:00

Please check out a story, "How Girl Scout Cookies Kill Orangutans" I did for online magazine Adventure Journal (from the makers of National Geographic Adventure). I'm especially happy because in under a week, my story has received over 100 Facebook "likes" and nearly 50 mentions.

I became interested in writing about these two girl scouts after reading about their stance against the Girl Scouts organization, a well-established organization they set out to idealize, but later refused to represent as their own values after learning a dark secret behind the much coveted cookie. Please share the story and learn more about adventure lifestyle at Adventure Journal.

Men with Balls ... Back Then

2011-06-01T23:45:00.001-07:00

Date a Green Guy

2011-05-25T22:42:00.001-07:00

Simple Shoes' New Blog: Collect is Here!

2011-05-08T12:14:00.000-07:00

Simple Shoes, where I write, just relaunched their website's new blog, and will feature a great collection of posts on everything from art, design, film, surf, green living to simple shoes. Check out the blog, Simple Collect and follow them on Twitter.

Here's an example of a recent blog featuring my flight with Felipe Calderon in Mexico ... of course I had to take my Simple Take On Hi's with me on Air Force Mexico!

In other news, Simple is turning 20 (almost legal drinking age). Look for more updates in the coming summer months.

Simple Take On Hi: The White Stuff

2011-05-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I received my white-on-white Take On Hi's, and boy am I excited to show off these kicks tomorrow at the office, where hopefully I'll start a new trend. Say yes to high tops with eco-certified leather uppers! And if you're planning on attending the artisan and local merchant event, Unique LA, be sure to stop by the Your Daily Thread table, where I'll be showing off these eco-fied, stylie kicks.

Green Up Your Date Life ... With Me

2011-04-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Are Green Guys More Chivalrous?

No, I'm not soliciting for dates (as if!) but I will be writing all about eco dating in the coming months. Be sure to sign up for free daily emails at Your Daily Thread to read relationship posts like the one below. Or read it at YDT.

Spring is coming

2011-04-10T23:05:00.000-07:00

All those dandelions are sprouting up all over my backyard. It takes all my strength not to sit out there and blow away all their little seeds.

CBS Best of LA: Best Eco-Friendly Hotels in Los Angeles

2011-03-22T01:12:00.000-07:00

Read the original link here at CBS Los Angeles.

6 Ways to Save Money By Cleaning Old-School Style

2011-03-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

Yolanda

2011-02-27T23:22:00.000-08:00

Mom in her heyday.

Featured in Surfer Magazine

2011-02-21T15:27:00.000-08:00

Acapulco vs. L.A. -- I'll take Acapulco

2011-02-16T11:36:00.000-08:00

While it is tragic hearing what is happening across the Mexico-U.S. border--I couldn't help but furrow my brow in an unconvincing manner after reading a two-page article dedicated to describing a violent Acapulco: "Amid Drug Violence, Acapulco Watches Tourism Recede."

I just returned from a month-long work trip around Mexico and found much of the cities and areas, even touristy one where supposedly a lot of this stuff is happening, relatively safe. I would be walking with friends and during the day because, well, that's just safe traveling. Here's what got me.

I find it ironic that there's plenty of headline about 650 people killed in four years (that's 162.5 a year), I think it's hyped and I think while there's media mention about L.A.'s violence, it's downplayed. They say about Acapulco: " ... the famed resort city has been the scene of vicious fighting among rival drug gangs ..." -- If you think about it, couldn't you use that line for Los Angeles? Actually, you couldn't, L.A.'s homicide is vastly larger than that of Acapulco. If you weren't sure, there was something like 314 homicide killings in 2009, 216 in 2010 and from Jan. 1 to Feb. 13 2011 L.A. has outdid itself with 83 homicides (barely two months and it's half of what Acapulco garners in a whole year). I edited the LAPD magazine for a few years and would always hear about these killings. However, I will say L.A.'s homicide rate has been dropping in the past few years--in 1992 there was a whopping 1,200 homicides.

I just found it strange that L.A., a city with nearly triple the homicides of that of a foreign, beautiful Mexican city like Acapulco, would dedicate so many inches to denounce it. Violence is there and no one can get around it. But let's keep perspective. Besides wasn't L.A. the city where songs like "Murder was the Case," "Eazy-E" and "Straight Outta Compton" originated from? I don't think I ever heard a track like that come out of Acapulco.

Check out the nice shot my friend Adriana took of me while we were driving along Champoton, Arnie Weissmann a great editor in chief I befriended while traveling here wrote up a nice story for Travel Weekly about the experience.

Along the Mexican Gulf Coast in Champoton.

City's Best Los Angeles: My Interview with Tracy Helper

2011-02-15T13:51:00.000-08:00

Recently, I've been writing with AOL's City Best for the L.A. edition. I've been tasked with writing on green living in Los Angeles. I interviewed Tracy Hepler of Your Daily Thread -- not only is she a good friend I've come to know through working in green living, but she's also got some of the best eco-etiquette I've seen around the city. From her compost, DIY vegetables to tin cans she's always carrying to avoid contributing to the plastic bottle fiasco, she's got top-notch manners when it comes to being good to the planet. Here is my recent interview with her.

Abuelita & Su Abrigo

2011-02-13T16:00:00.000-08:00

Grandma decided to gift me her 1970s-era coat that grandpa bought from one of those fancy window displays. She only wore it a handful of times. Funny enough, it fits me to a tee. Alas, where would I wear such a glam piece?

Mexico City in Photos

2011-01-23T09:38:00.000-08:00

Hello gang,
As of late, I've been working in Mexico City on a top secret mission ... well, not secret and not a mission but I think definitely "top" would be the word to describe what I've seen so far just in Mexico City. I've been here a week and a half and although I'm seeing much of it from a hotel's 20th floor window and the length my feet can travel around the hotel, the country is still breathtaking. Every morning I wake up and face a flying Mexican flag that's large enough to cover a house. (I think they fly it whenever the president is in town.) The city, at a higher elevation, is engulfed in these omnipresent mountains -- it reminds me of Las Vegas being surrounded but grander.

I have not even seen much of the country yet, but one of the first things to stick out for me about Mexico is that it's exactly like the beautiful books and movies that (properly) depict Mexico in all its rich, colorful, artisanal and cultural beauty. There's rich, spicy food, overly bright-painted buildings in pastels, orange, red, etc and everyone is dressed to the nines. I joked to Adriana, it's like Beverly Hills, except everyone is tan and has a beautiful accent. Here are some shots I've taken so far of the city.

Enchiladas

Frida Kahlo's House

On the gondolas

Add a Little Green to Your Gifts this Season

2010-11-30T14:24:00.000-08:00

Barbie & Ken Vintage Photos

Good gifts needn't come with a hefty price tag - especially when there are ample indie, local and artisanal gifts at the L.A. Holiday Mart in Santa Monica this weekend. The story goes that an entreprenette, artist and event planner put their heads together to make this shop soiree of handmade goods. Enjoy some complimentary coffee and cookies. I've included my top picks.

Salvage Heart Sweetheart

Fahmina

Listen More, Talk Less, Ask Questions

2010-11-29T12:49:00.000-08:00

I had the good fortune of receiving a couple calls back to back last night from two very dear friends. I'd drop most things (the exception being driving in L.A. traffic and a deadline) to sit and chat on the phone with my girlfriends about really anything. It just so happened last night's topic du jour had to do with relationships - platonic and romantic. The topic wasn't really so important as much as the experience of sharing that topic. My mother used to say to me that you should do more listening and less talking because God gave you two ears and one mouth. Hat tip to mommy dearest. So when I do "talk" with friends, I like to try and listen patiently while the other party explains - sometimes at lengthy efforts - the egregious situation at hand they're experiencing and simply must get off their chest. Try it, it doesn't come so easy sometimes.

Given a choice between listening and talking, people express more talent in talking about themselves. Go to any party and if you're struggling with a dull conversation, just ask that person lots of questions about themselves. If they're not in a coma, the dialogue will pick up in a snap. It reminds me what they taught me as a journalist student. Listen. Listen. Listen. Essentially, absorb what information you're given; and it will give you a better understanding from which to jump into questions - or in my friend's case, offer a suggestion or two. Why am I bringing this up?

Often, people just need the cathartic experience of ranting or having a sympathetic ear to share the troubles of their world with--the subject matter is irrelevant because things affect all of us differently. And we're social creatures, we literally must interact for the sake of our survival (studies have proven that babies can actually perish if nobody touches or interacts with them). Take Kitty for instance, who felt it justifiable enough to jump in front of my laptop for mere minutes of affection before her afternoon nap.

In my case with friends, I do genuinely care what they're sharing with me. It's not uncommon for our conversations to sign off with a couple "love you's." As individuals, it's of the utmost importance to not be so self-focused on our own vexations and tribulations -- espesh when there is really much satisfaction in being there for a friend, the effort is all in simply listening.

Etiquette Books Your Mama Has Never Heard Of

2010-11-22T16:29:00.000-08:00

As with so many things in life we sometimes need a small reminder on how to do things. Etiquette, for instance. In my bookshelf, I keep a nice collection of etiquette books, which I love picking through just for ideas and inspiration. I'm gonna say these are great picks because they're written by modern-day writers (none of that archaic silverware, plate setting business) and are actually winky and snarky enough to make most young people laugh while appreciating the manner-ish message. And really, it's more about gestures and consideration, rather than stuffy rules. If you find yourself even the slightest bit interested in learning about this etiquette business (of course you do) or find yourself stifled by the interactions of young folks in your city, check out these books from my collection that I adore. I promise these won't put you to sleep.

The Art of Civilized Conversation by Margaret Shepherd ~ Just sweetly encouraging and compact enough to toss in your bag should you have to wait somewhere. Terribly adorbs topics include "Small-Talk Saboteurs," "Disagree in a Civilized Fashion" and "Everybody Blunders."

"Sometimes you may meet a person who just can't seem to help himself; he flirts shamelessly. It may be the only way he knows how to relate to the opposite gender. Conversations always seem to return to the discussions of looks or are infused with sexual innuendo. [...] Women seem more aware of how to keep a conversation 'on track.' If you want to block or slow down a flirtation, use 'I' a lot, 'you' and 'we' never."

Thinking of You by Marjabelle Young Stewart ~ I tried the act below once with a boy. Even if romantic notions aren't their taste, you'll usually get a sweet laugh for the effort. Plus, who doesn't like thoughtful gifts?

"Tuck a perfume- or aftershave-scented handkerchief (barely scented, not drenched) into your partner's suitcase when he's leaving town on business, along with a note that says, 'Think of me.'"

How to be Lovely: The Audrey Hepburn Way of Life ~ Audrey Hepburn and how she lived the way she did, 'nuff said.

Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen ~ OK, not a modern etiquette book per say, but good golly molly did men and women know how to treat each other with such niceties (letter writing just to say hello, anyone?) And Austen offers such a lovely presentation on how sexual tension could be bottled up into neat, cordial interactions. Not that is still doesn't take a dedicated eye to learn how to "read" people's emotions. Indeed, handy even a century later.

The Fabulous Girl's Guide to Decorum by Kim Izzo & Ceri Marsh ~ These Canadian journalist wrote a three-book collection on social decorum for the modern-day gal. Tips are hilar and randy, with topics like "Sex & Courtship," "Promotion Etiquette" to "The Zen of Hostessing."

"For the single girl, 'Chapsticks' (those platonic chaps who stick by you through thick and thin) make great escorts to events. They're also there to shoulder the burden of sometimes having sex and hearing about breakups, crushes who won't call and bitter fights with boyfriends. [...] Benefit from the Chapstick's insight into male libido."

Now remember, there is no book out there with the perfect rules to get you going through life flawlessly and without any social gaffes. Instead, look at it from the perspective that you're learning a new skill, or brushing up on one (gardening or cooking, for instance) and the more information you get, the better it is for you. There are many guidelines, but the best guideline to follow is remembering to express your true voice and style, proper fork or not.

Toilet Seat Etiquette + Germ Control

2010-11-15T21:34:00.000-08:00

The other week I had a couple of male guests come through my little cottage of a home. During their visit, a bathroom call was also made. Of course, I obliged. Unbeknownst to me and my preconceived notions about the modern-day mannered man, I was shocked to discover both male guests felt it OK to leave the toilet seat and lid left in the upright position. Hmm. Beyond being a social sin in my opinion, when does a girl ever like having to rearrange opened toilet accoutrements after her male guests? And it turns out, this casual lavatory act is also not so good for your home environment.

Remember in school when you had to watch those 1950's atomic bomb films in history class? That exact thing is happening in your bathroom when you flush. As that 1950's video explains, "The explosion's radioactive fallout is almost as dangerous as the blast itself." When you push down on that unassuming little flush handle, a mushroom bomb made of microbial cloud of feces and bacteria explodes into your home's atmosphere. The only thing stopping that lovely image from alighting on everything like your soap and toothbrush?

The toilet lid, closed down as a matter of fact.

Even the boys at Discovery Channel"s Mythbusters found the same results by using dry ice to film what gets shot up during this ill-advised practice of flushing toilets with the lids in the up position.

Some of my favorite quotes about this lid-up flushing business:

"What they can't is the countless billions of bacteria and microbes that literally explode upward into the air [...] some of these germs can reach heights of up to 20 feet."

"It doesn't take long for these tiny particles of poop to settle on everything in the room; faucets, towels, even your toothbrush."

So there you have it, leave it the way you found it i.e. the seat down. And anyways, the amount of energy expended in arguing about this lid up or down business, far exceeds the simple etiquette required in just doing a girl a favor in leaving a seat down.

These Days, According to Nico

2010-11-09T20:29:00.000-08:00

Yep, still on my French-pop kick.

Santa Barbara and Sustainable Traveling

2010-11-09T09:58:00.000-08:00

If the idea of traveling has left you feeling more worried about leaving a larger carbon footprint and impact on the eco system, fret not. Santa Barbara is right in our state (not jet fuel needed!) and offers a lot of eats, sights and stays that work in conjunction with nature, while leaving you with a grander appreciation of what our California coast really has to offer.

I just came back from visiting what many have started calling "The American Riviera" and wrote up a sustainable travel guide to Santa Barbara. Your Daily Thread just came out with my article, you can read it here or click below.

EcoEtique & Practically Green

2010-11-08T18:45:00.000-08:00

I had the great pleasure to recently be interviewed by Practically Green, a terrific source for green living. I chatted with their Director of Social Programming, Sarah Finnie Robinson about my new EcoEtique column, what to expect on topics of environmental and social etiquette and how the two are actually related. I hope you enjoy the coming months as much as I will.

You can read my interview with them on Practically Green's website.

In other news, I heard Practically Green's founders were featured on NBC Universal. Congrats to PG and their continued success. If you have not yet subscribed to PG, you can by clicking on the top of their homepage, you'll receive lots of helpful free advice to turn your life more green, every day.

Green Living on Your Daily Thread

2010-11-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

In addition to running EcoEtique, I'm a regular contributor for eco curious site, Your Daily Thread, where I write on green living and the like. It's one of the most thorough and well-researched sources for going green in the city. Sign up to receive the Your Daily Thread daily email-delivered news on their homepage. Do it now! And check out the rest of our amazing team here.

Everyone Loves Getting Mail ...

2010-11-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Unless, of course, your lovely correspondence is blemished with giant "1.30 % APR," "NO FEES" or "What Would You Do With A Platinum Credit Card?" In today's article on Your Daily Thread, "Return to Sender: How to Nix Junk Mail" I discuss the art of banishing junk mail.

2010-11-01T18:15:00.000-07:00

Nico - I'm Not Saying

2010-10-28T22:50:00.000-07:00

You can't go wrong with Nico and French pop music in general.

Ave Marie ... Claire: Blogger Etiquette

2010-10-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

The English translation of Franz Schubert's Ave Maria has the line, "Thou canst save amid despair."

This might be advice I'd share with Maura Kelly, blogger of Marie Claire's "A Year of Living Flirtatiously," who's likely in the middle of despair for having written an incendiary column that uses less-than-pretty language to discuss overweight individuals. People (2,288 commenters to be precise) are attacking her for zingers like, "I'd be grossed out if I had to watch two characters with rolls and rolls of fat kissing each other" and "I find it aesthetically displeasing to watch a very, very fat person simply walk across a room -- just like I'd find it distressing if I saw a very drunk person stumbling across a bar or a heroin addict slumping in a chair." (Awkwardly, she exposed her sloppiness as a writer when she misspelled 'heroin' as 'heroine' in her post).

Here's Kelly's post this week on 'Should "Fatties" Get a Room (Even on TV?)."

One of the first rules in journalism was learning how to compare apples to apples and oranges to oranges. Whereas Kelly compares apples to bananas when she likens the appearance of overweight individuals to that of heroin users. {insert awkward cough} She writes, "Anorexia is sick, but at least some slim models are simply naturally skinny." {eye roll} Overlooking the fact many of those models starve/bulimic themselves, did she not realize genetics are to blame for making Kate Moss as well as Oprah? Kelly misses the application of this lesson entirely (and yet the girl went to Dartmouth).

There is nothing illegal about writing trite ramble and calling it "professional," but this is a column about etiquette and social graces. If I were a blogger for a major Hearst pub, I'd have the sense to first, avoid egregious misspellings {shudder}, and two, use a filter before expressing myself on a contentious topic, like weight, which might personally and deeply affect a lot of individuals. When expressing an opinion--showing social grace and consideration neither adds nor detracts from the freedom of an opinion. There's always a hundred ways to say the same thing.

Last note. In her column, Kelly's beef was with the personal appearance of "fatties" being represented on TV (Should "fatties" Get a Room, Even on TV), insomuch she inferred a "displeasing" quality about viewing them on a big screen. For argument's sake, let's compare apples to apples. I wonder what Kelly would opine on personal appearances depicted by Snookie, Speidi and Octoman? If networks are willing to put the likes of those individuals on TV, why is there tremendous harm in broadcasting "Mike & Molly" whose characters are enrolled in Overeaters Anonymous. In time, I'm sure Kelly "canst save amid despair," since everyone's etiquette can falter at times.

"Remember you always have a choice: tact or react,
Every peacemaker uses the wisdom of diplomacy,
Because words when spoken right make men see"

-- Tim Pickl

EcoEtique is Born

2010-10-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

I have been running a blog now for two years now. My first blog post was on Muse Marian, a.k.a. Marian McEvoy, the former etiquette columnist for Domino Magazine, RIP. McEvoy offered real-life advice for modern-day men and women. She's like Carrie Bradshaw meets Emily Post, plus classy oomph. Overdid martinis on a first date? Crackberry users make rude company? Muse Marian knew what to do. To this day, I still cherish her columns (yes, I keep old magazines that have gone to heaven). My first post was on etiquette and funny, even garnered me my first (and encouraging) comment. I think that must have been a sign.

"I definitely love your own writing way, very helpful, don't give up as well as keep posting simply because it simply just truly worth to follow it, looking forward to find out additional of your articles, goodbye!"

Today, I'm launching EcoEtique, an advice column on how to handle all aspects of modern-day eco living and etiquette. Sometimes the two are inextricably connected. For instance, if you're a guest at someone's house and offer to clean the dishes after dinner, and you notice the homeowner blasting the sink water with no dishes underneath (just thinking it makes me cringe), how do you resolve cleaning the dishes fast while not wasting precious water? Wanna send correspondence for a party or just say hello? There are a plethora of ways to nicely upcycle material into cards and find eco, sustainable stationery -- stay cordial to your acquaintances and the planet. This is my aim with EcoEtique, that and a little enjoyment.

Santa Barbara's Eco Respite

2010-10-23T17:28:00.000-07:00

The opportunity to visit Santa Barbara came my way based on a variety of elements that came together. Tracy wasn't able to go due to work, I was recently working from home and therefore able to work according to my very open schedule and ... it just happened that El Capitan Canyon got in touch with our eco website, Your Daily Thread.

While I happily open myself up to new experiences as they come along -- one of the forefront reasons I love journalism/writing so much -- so when the chance to visit a brand-new, beautiful and coastal city, among other places, including a wine country in central California, how could I possibly say no?

Here are some pictures I took from my Blackberry.

And the work space.

A Little AMOR

2010-10-23T13:34:00.000-07:00

Last week, I went to visit my mother. She was feeling sick at the time, so I climbed into bed with her and hung out for a while. Later, she gave me the most beautiful pinkie ring, and her most cherished ring (OK, besides her wedding ring). She told me not to loose it. Ironically, I almost did when I had the disturbing experience of folding laundry and realizing the ring had simply slid off my pinkie (oh, that was horror). Since than, I have corrected the egregious error and now wear the ring on a silver chain with a Tiffany's heart (which my sister gave me). The ring though is remarkably irreplaceable. The story is in 1972 my mom decided to buy herself her first ring, of her own accord. It's gold and the diamond has fallen out but it's probably nothing like you've ever seen, a gorgeous vintage little piece. I cherish it. My mom told me she wanted the jeweler to make her a ring that said "love" but in Spanish so the ring says "AMOR." The font style is the other cool part. It's this psychedelic-ish, ballon-y font that you'd likely glimpse on The Doors or a Pink Floyd album cover. Something like this:

Here's the ring:

Blogging It Up on Simple Shoes

2010-10-22T07:41:00.000-07:00

Check out the interview the good people at Simple Shoes posted about me on their blog, as part of their relaunching of the Simple blog, where I'll be contributing.

Simple-y Blogging

2010-10-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

As of late, I've started blogging for sustainable footwear company, Simple Shoes. Check in every now and then to read up on their latest posts, where I'll be writing on everything surf, skate, culture, eco, art and, of course, all things Simple.

Here's today's post on Dwell's Stacey Jones: Dwell Magazine People, Simple-y Fans

Total Beauty

2010-09-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

This year, I've started writing with this beauty website called Total Beauty, it's Allure Magazine meets Yelp and offers around 5 million viewers beauty tips, how-to's and celeb beauty news, monthly. As one of their beauty news writers I basically write on all things newsy, beauty and celeb-related. Here's my editor Kristen Giordani visiting Good Morning America, where she stars an expert discussing beauty tips and more.

And here are a couple of stories by me. Enjoy (hopefully).

Oh Nina

2010-09-22T21:02:00.001-07:00

Backstage at Your Daily Thread

2010-09-10T14:27:00.000-07:00

For your viewing pleasure, a video of behind the scenes of Your Daily Thread's photo shoot.

YDT Gets Some Camera Love

2010-09-10T00:07:00.000-07:00

The Your Daily Thread team had a great opp to get professionally photographed by John Lauren Photography in July. Had a blast playing dress up with fellow ladies and spending the day getting primped and pressed, while drinking green tea. Here are some images from the shoot, including my new head shot.

Jason, Sarah and Justen at Work

2010-09-02T11:15:00.000-07:00

Guess which one is me.

L.A. Men Do the Green Runway

2010-08-05T10:36:00.000-07:00

When you have a chance, check out my article on eco men's fashion trends in this month's issue of Whole Life Times magazine. It's one of my favorite holistic publications where I write and it was a particular pleasure interviewing all the designers for this piece -- from an international skate company CEO, a local store owner/designer making waves with hemp material, to a Civil War-inspired Tennessee designer.

It's OK to Shoot Your Friends

2010-08-03T11:24:00.000-07:00

This last weekend. I was offered an opportunity to get some headshots done, as part of being a contributor for Your Daily Thread, an online magazine for the eco curious. I'm the Green Living writer there. Pretty rad experience altogether, not just because I have some sick headshots now--having had a professional manicurist, stylist and make up artist (Kerry Malouf is also the beauty editor at Malibu Magazine) ready to adjust every little hair or lip color--but because I got to spend the whole day in Santa Monica with some of my closest friends .. and goof off. What girl wouldn't love getting all glammed up, dancing to music while being photographed? It's like getting your fun memories professionally and artfully packaged into beautiful photos. If I could, I'd do a shoot every month, just for the fun of it.

¿Estás Listo España?

2010-07-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

Was made incredibly happy yesterday by Spain's finish again Germany. Sunday, be kind y VAMOS Raúl Albiol Tortajada.

Sneak Peek at Green Men (Designers, that is)

2010-07-06T23:04:00.000-07:00

I just finished up a piece on local and eco-friendly men's designers and am so excited about it, I had to post a little sample (pardon, the fashion pun) from some of the lines I wrote about. It's kind of unbelievable that this stuff is made from sustainable and earth-friendly materials--like, er, recycled cassette tape. I will post the article here once it's out.

Exactly

2010-07-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

I still laugh at myself (and irk at my friend who "coincidentally" overlooked telling me who I was talking to) when I think about my interlude last month with Mr. DJ Cut Chemist. Honestly, I like him more for humoring me when we discussed the benefits of hiring goats to trim the lawn (more eco-friendly!). He was totally into it and barely harped about his world-travelling work. Too bad I didn't get a chance to hear what records he brought (too many folks before us) at the bring-your-own-records party at a friends.

Still my favorite Cut Chemist song.

Saturday Afternoon Post

2010-07-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

It's late afternoon and already a good deal has happened. The morning started off with a great hike in Griffith Park - ending with a nice scenic lookout of Downtown L.A. The hike included two fellow writers/designers and besides enjoying the dusty workout, got a bit of work shop talk in (websites, head shots, articles and promoting one's brand). Watched Spain kick Paraguay's butt (seriously that guy should have got three points for that kick back into the net), drove a friend to LAX, enjoyed some light house cleaning and currently taking a break from a last-minute weekend assignment. I actually like last-minute assignments, I have a hard time saying no to editors (which is probably why I have yet to do that). Post afternoon writing session (my favorite), the evening will include a ladies night, sans the clubs. I'm not at all interested in overpriced, syrupy drinks, spandex thigh-clenching outfits wrapped on over-done up girls, nor tackily dressed men equipped with nothing but over-doused cologne and cheesy tactics. I'd much rather spend a night doing like the English, a "proper, quality time amongst fellows at the pub."

I have a small (and growing) succulent family. Each one has its story. The first (on the left) came home with me after high-tea brunch with the ladies at the Huntington Gardens here in Pasadena. They were having a sale and I just had to take one of the babies home. The seller was telling me that most of the plants, some from places as far away as South Africa, were for sale because it was excess from ordering of the Huntington.
The middle was a housewarming gift from a friend who home-grown the baby from another succulent. It's tiny and has even tinier roots and has been with me since I first moved in.

The last one on the right is the most recent addition to the family. It was a gift from my first house guest, who incidentally broke off the last budding end minutes before I picked her up from the train station. Obviously, not on purpose. Too bad but at least the rest of it is doing fantastic. Absolutely love the zebra white stripes.

In other good news, I think I found my comforter. I like it because it's nature-inspired, soothing and a bit lighter than my current Calvin Klein comforter, even though I have absolutely loved the collection for seven years. I can just see myself on it reading, writing on my laptop or napping with Francesca. Now, onto curtains! I'm thinking something white, sheer and airy ...

G-L-A-M-O-U-R is spelled with a photo shoot

2010-07-01T00:10:00.000-07:00

Had an unexpected surprise this week when I learned I would have a cool opportunity to partake in a prof photo shoot, as part of publication where I contribute. We'll be doing individual shots, as well as a group one. What girl doesn't enjoy a little makeup and glam on a photo shoot? Did I mention it was going to be shot on the beach? Yes, I am excited.
Oh snap!

Something That Has Nothing to Do With My Writing ...

2010-06-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

But then again writers do write because they love seeing their work published and their personally crafted thoughts and ideas communicated to others-some who they might never meet. And herein lies the slight ego embedded in all writers, eco journalist or not. I've always loved being in the spotlight (I'm a Leo) but dropped the music major when I was 22 years old, in lieu of becoming a ham of the written language. But who knows. I just started video media, so maybe I can integrate the two (entertaining and writing) this year.

I will say this, 1984 was a good year for me, as that was the year I discovered one of the biggest ego-inducing entertainers today: Madonna and the "Like a Virgin" album. And just like that, a little baby ego-turned writer was hatched.

Dwell-ing in DTLA Redux

2010-06-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

Check out my piece on Dwell on Design, which blew up DTLA (Downtown LA for you non-acronymn folks) this past weekend. Dwell on Design.

Type Type Type

2010-06-28T23:20:00.000-07:00

In between finishing up some pieces tonight and trying to decompress with some jams, I started listening to Jason Schwartzman's Coconut Records. He is my Jewish crush but lately I've realized many people don't know the Wes Anderson favorite has a band here in Los Angeles. Well, that's how cool I am, sharing this guitar goodness with you all. Anyway, look for my piece on Dwell on Design this week. Will post the article here when it's live.

YDT Hits the Coast with Santa Monica Baykeeper

2010-06-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

Check out my latest story with the Santa Monica Baykeeper here.

Unspeakable Acts with Sisqó

2010-06-27T15:05:00.000-07:00

Last night provided its share of good times and perhaps slight absurdity of entertainment. This is what happens with grown women on a Saturday night behind closed doors gentleman. I blame it on the sangria. My sangria.

1 a.m.

2010-06-26T01:00:00.000-07:00

Somehow, I've been writing every day for the past two months and my hands and fingers and nails have not fallen off or become embarrassingly deformed. Quite the contrary--they're currently painted a sweet tangerine color. Somehow, I've reconnected to one of my all-time loves, at least since I was 14 years old: girls on acoustic. By the way, it's one o'clock in the morning and all kinds of birds are chirping outside all the time. I think it's so cool that they even sing at night. I guess even the birdies work through the night. It is a full moon tonight, so maybe that has something to do with it. Living in an actual house, which is something like 100 years old, I feel at times like I'm not even in a big, polluted metropolis--seems so far away from the cliched stigmas L.A. is so known for: clubs, celebratti, traffic, lifestyles of the rich & the famous, scantily clad girls. I much prefer the closeness of nature, serenity and birds singing to me in the middle of the night. But then, maybe it's because I'm a writer and *naturally partial to hermit-like ambiances.

Cupcake Challenge

2010-06-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

I recently heard that Big Man Bakes is THE place for downtown LA cupcakes. I wanted to offer up my delicious version of dtla cupcake center. Introducing the Big Apple transplant, Babycakes NYC.

Dwell(ing) on a Digie

2010-06-24T21:03:00.000-07:00

I am attending and covering the Dwell on Design this weekend and through my maze of planned and unexpected journalism jaunts, am realizing I constantly am in need of a stylie digital camera. I'm embarrassed to say I only carry the lens of a Blackberry Bold and Canon EOS Elan II. (Don't judge now, I am a writer, not photographer). Any input would be seriously welcomed! :)

~merci beaucoup

Vertical Gardening Interview

2010-06-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

If you have an opportunity, check out my first video with your daily thread on vertical gardening here in Los Angeles. You can read the full story here.

Caught on Camera

2010-06-20T23:43:00.000-07:00

On a Speedboat with the Santa Monica Baykeepers

2010-06-15T13:21:00.000-07:00

This last Sunday, as part of an assignment for your daily thread, I headed out to Marina Del Rey to visit Malibu's coast with the Santa Monica Baykeepers. Some cool newspaper reporters and photographers also went along for the bumpy ride, which involved loosing our stomachs every time the boat leaped out of the water and came down. Whoa. Fortunately, all made it safe at the end of our 30-minute ride. We met representatives and activitists from Heal the Bay and the Surfrider Foundation at Zuma Beach. SMB is an environmental nonprofit dedicated to keeping Los Angeles' beaches squeaky clean. However, all three groups have been involved together and heavily invested in pushing a current act with the marine protected areas, which would basically make it illegal for fish boats to disrupt certain coasts along Southern California's beaches. Professional surfers and members of Surfrider and Heal the Bay came out that day for a "paddle out" to bring awareness to the cause. In a few weeks, I will travel with them on an aerial tour of their restored areas along the coast. I will post a link here to the story when it's live.

Pulling out plastic from the ocean.

Some dolphins came to check out what we were up to, we literally saw dozens all along the coast from Marina Del Rey to Malibu -- a very good sign indeed.

Sans Paper or Plastic

2010-06-14T19:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a recent piece I wrote for Sierra Magazine on California's newest plastic bag ban. You can read it here too.

Sitting Down with Lisa Ling

2010-06-11T14:25:00.000-07:00

This week I had an opportunity to sit down with journalist Lisa Ling. The Oprah and National Geographic correspondent talked with me about her recent involvement with Doors of Hope (DOH), an important shelter here in the San Gabriel Valley. DOH is one of the few shelters in the country that allow families, who are experiencing financial issues and homelessness, to stay together. It might seem surprising to you but most shelters separate the men from their wives and children--creating a disturbingly effective backlash of splitting up a lot of these families. An experienced reporter who's seen devastation at every level, worldwide, I asked Ling why she became involved with this little shelter in Pasadena. She explained that over the years, she was being drawn more and more to report on domestic issues, which she felt were not being talked about enough. She was first introduced to DOH after doing a SoCal Connect segment on a couple in California, who had gone from the American dream of five cars and a big home, to being left homeless, all the while dealing with having their first baby and facing potential divorce.

I found Ling an extremely genuine and kind person to talk with, particularly about a topic that every American should know about and understand, though may try to forget as quickly as possible. That same day of our interview Ling was speaking at a luncheon to benefit Doors of Hope. During her speech, she spoke about people witnessing America's homelessness every day, but then offer nothing but inaction and disregard. At this, Ling reminded the audience with words that Oprah once shared with Ling on the same topic, "Now that you know, you can't pretend that you don't."

Larry Steele and Lisa Ling

I catch myself observing people--on the street or wherever--who have to face a bleak situation every day, thinking how challenging it must be for them to get up every morning ... and then 10 minutes later, I default to having a "I have no power to do anything significant so I won't do anything" attitude. I think now might be a good time for me (and maybe you) to start remembering not just Oprah's impacting words, but the words of those around us who are asking for our help, right now.

Look for my article with Lisa Ling in the coming months. I will post an update here.

Viva La Terra

2010-06-09T23:57:00.000-07:00

People keep asking me where I got my little table. I found it at online eco furniture store, Viva Terra. I've grown to love looking online at this place. Check out my next little crush, the recycled French bottle lamp, made with the obvious, cork. But there's something entrancing about the combination of Amber-stained glass and the clear base. I love items that make you glance at them more than once when you walk past them.

OK, Let's Go

2010-06-04T13:49:00.000-07:00

Last month, the OK Store opened up its first satelite branch in Silver Lake. All I have to say about this is, is finally. OK, seriously, er, truly, I adore this shop. One of my favorites (when I afford it, but window shopping is nice too). OK offers a gamut of bric-a-brac, tableware, furniture to books and toys of bougie, eclectic, vintage to moderately priced pieces. Eastsiders (sorry, I realize many Silver Lake-rs don't consider themselves "east la") can now attend the shop in flock. If you haven't visited OK before, try it this weekend. Maybe I'll even run into there.

Here are its hours: Thurs-Sunday 12 p.m.-6 p.m.
OK Store, 1724 Silver Lake Blvd., L.A. 90026
(323) 653-3501

Tomorrow Night: DWR's 111 Navy Chair Makes its L.A. Debut

2010-06-02T20:57:00.000-07:00

I recently wrote a piece for Sierra Magazine on Design Within Reach's 111 Navy Chair. Tomorrow, the chair, made of 111 recycled Coca-Cola bottles, will debut at the Beverly Hill's Design Within Reach. All attendees will have a chance to enter a drawing to win one 111 Navy Chair, I'm hoping it will be me since I could use a new eco office chair.

Funky Threads

2010-06-01T23:30:00.000-07:00

Thinking of picking up the needle and thread sans the grandmother lesson? Summer might be a great opp to make your own sexy, crocheted bikini. Take part in former L.A. fashion designer Jin Kim's very-hip sewing boutique, where she offers everything from funky fresh threads (no, seriously) to lessons galore on making your own vintage shift dresses. Check it here.

Gunning for Summer Style

2010-06-01T22:54:00.000-07:00

If you have a moment, check out my interview with Mr. Tim Gunn. We talked about summer styles and what not to wear when it comes to your stylish men.

Wishy Washy

2010-05-31T14:39:00.000-07:00

Having lost the blessed use of my dishwasher three months ago and joined the ranks of countless Angelenos who handwash all their dishes, I've been on a quest to find the perfect eco-friendly dishwash soap that is harsh on stains but not too harsh on the environment. Yesterday, I found it in the form of Method's Ginger Yuzu. The first thing that gets me is its lovely flowerly fragrant. You might laugh but the scent actually elevates my mood. Plus, its biodegradable soap suds feels like it really cleans your stuff. The San Francisco-based company is also recognized by the EPA partnership program, Design for the Environment (DfE), which means it the ingredients have a higher environmental standard, which have been reviewed by the Environmental Protection Agency. Highly recommend the Ginger Yuzu.

For a list of DfE products, from floor cleaner to pet care, click here.

E-Waste Not, Want Not

2010-05-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Have an old TV or DVD player you don't want? I'm sure you know it's a big no-no to toss it in the trash (many electronics contain a variety of harsh chemicals that would eventually leak into the ground while at our landfills). Be sure to drop 'em off at the Pasadena E-Waste Recycle event, held at the Rose Bowl today, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Open to all residents and businesses. Contact the City of Pasadena, (626) 744-4721 or email: recycle@cityofpasadena.net or click here for more information.

Sew Hip in South Pasadena

2010-05-21T20:09:00.001-07:00

I won't easily admit it, that I can't sew, or stitch or mend for that matter, to my friends. Until one day, I'm wearing my favorite H&M cardigan and my friend inquires, why are there only three buttons left on that thing?

Honestly, I wish I could play victim and say I was never able to be taught, except that, well, I'm SO not a victim and that I could have been taught from a young age to sew by the Pavarotti of pattern makers: my mother. My mother, an incredibly talented crafts-woman, if she wanted to, could open up her own needle point and craft stores. She can glance at any pattern or design and figure it out in a speedily manner not unlike that of a NASA computer figuring out space computations. Since I was a wee thing, I've witnessed my mother fashion clothes, home decor to jewelry accessories using needle point, knitting, crocheting, beading to quilting. Everyone had their mother knit them something at some point, but did your mamacita ever offer up custom-made clothes, booties and fashion accessories for your dolls? Yep, my mother even hooked up Barbie and Skipper with new duds every fall. I think the only thing my mother hasn't dabbled in is silk screening.

So, what I'm getting at, is that I may get a chance to finally pick up a needle and thread at Common Thread Studio in South Pasadena. Jin Kim is the owner, I stopped by there on Friday afternoon to talk about her sewing and craft store catered to all ages, but especially the modern-day young folks. Be sure to check out my your daily thread piece on her next week, I'll provide a link here.

Here are some highlights from my visit.

The shop storefront faces a busy Mission Street, right at the Metro stop.

Jin says it's more fun to make felt signs over print ones. Being greeted by a vibrant and textual sign when you walk in, it's hard not to agree.

A former fashion designer, Jin Kim offers a fun, hip studio to learn to sew or try silk screening.

The shop has a selection of industrial and home sewing machines.

These baby booties, featuring little birds and the words "tweet" made me want to learn how to sew.

thank you merlot, but not for the reasons you think

2010-05-20T23:18:00.000-07:00

I don't own a scale but a gal at work does. So I stepped on it ... and realized that I have lost close to eight pounds. What? This is what happens when you sustain yourself on nothing but merlot, coffee and avocados for three months ... added that I never really let myself lay down to sleep except between 2 a.m. and 7:40 a.m. I know, I know, I think I'm actually healthier when I have eh, muscle, and weigh a little more. Merlot relaxes my senses, cools my angst from the day, and makes me forget about people who take advantage of me throughout my day--and I don't drink to the point that I can't write. The horror! And we're talking about a glass, not a bottle, my friends. It's better than a carb-loaded beer for crying outloud. I would never advocate a diet like the above. I think the healthier and more real, raw food (oh yeah and exercise) you can get, the better! I try to run but it's nowhere near as consistent as my next door neighbor who can easily cover six miles in an hour. What can I say? I traded in exercise for a career of writing? Yeah, I know, still not good enough a reason. I need one of those exercises I can do while writing a 1,000-word article in under a week. Yeah, how about that Richard Simmons? Oh, and I need to be sitting the whole time, with just my two hands moving. Is that cool? OK, great.

I should just take yoga from a friend who teaches the stuff--girlfriend time and peace of mind and body! I do try to mediate everyday, usually it's in the car right after some jerk cuts me off on the 110, but ... alas, should get sleep. Interview tomorrow evening with a very talented young lady who can sew circles around anyone.

Author Elizabeth Gilbert on Creativity

2010-05-19T23:28:00.000-07:00

Just finished reading "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert. One of the best memoirs I've read since "Angela's Ashes." Found this interesting vid about her talking about how to keep on the creative process and muses on the question of whether we are all "geniuses." Take 15 minutes to get inspired--even if you aren't an artist or writer.

Mooi Pre-Opening Party

2010-05-17T22:54:00.000-07:00

Although I was looking forward to the Mooi opening in Echo Park tonight--the raw, vegan resto apparently has some salivating-worthy dessert items--I was none to impressed by the inadequate supply of food. Truly a let down for as long as the "Mooi coming soon" sign has lived on the store front. The "tasting" should be taken as literal since there is not more than a bite offered to maybe the lucky dozen who are quick as a fox to snatch a little goodie off the trays, which were toted around by two people. In truth, I'm not a vegan, but I often eat vegan as part as any other cuisine like you would Mexican or Thai.

A couple colleagues--including Eco Vegan Gal--of mine went so far as to ask, "If this a preview tasting, where is the food?" The food did come out but in clusters that were carried on tiny trays and promptly grabbed by the first 10 hands near the kitchen. So much for actually testing this well-reviewed catering-turned-resto. I hate to be such a critic, but here's some nice things ...

Mooi's doorway for the night was the side door (instead of the ground floor entrance on Sunset) and offered a fun, dramatic entrance down the staircase.

Although I love getting out and meeting new folks in town, the atmosphere, as one of us quickly noted, was "a weird vibe." It seemed more individuals were there to be seen more than to eat. Lame. Folks, I was there to eat! What's more I felt slightly rebuffed by the owner, who was more than happy to meet and greet with fancy-looking people, over this writer (ahem, and my colleagues), who will NOT be reviewing his place. Sorry. You gotta be willing to put in the work. No food and now, you don't even want to talk to me for a minute about your food? Why do people just expect others to default to thinking you're cool because you're "aloof?"

Even, poor overcrowded hipsters had to hover over the seven tables and odd chairs, which left many awkwardly (and drink-less) standing.

OK, back to the nice stuff. What I liked about the interior was the varied selection of antique lamps and oversize, ornamented mirrors--reminded me of mine at home.

This was the best shot I could get of the food--what I could snag--and nope, it didn't offer much taste or thrill. Much of vegan food is also cashew-based, which, frankly, can get tiring after four or five mini bites of these. I've had more exciting vegan, raw food (hello, M Cafe de Chaya). A bit lackluster was the consensus among our writer group.

Probably the best thing to happen this night, was the funky-fun music, which offered enough upbeat classics that my friends and I were more than happy to sway along to before calling it a night--sans the Mooi. Here, I am with yourdailythread.com founder and friend, Tracy Hepler.

Rosie & the Originals

2010-05-17T22:13:00.000-07:00

Still such a good song.

Just Ran Out Of ...

2010-05-16T20:47:00.000-07:00

Reynolds Recycled Aluminum. Conveniently though, I had just enough to bake my chicken for dinner. :) I love this aluminium wrap, it's the only one I've found that is made from 100 percent out of recycled aluminium--how smart is that?

PWP Water Conservation 101 Workshop

2010-05-16T20:17:00.000-07:00

Did you know the most common source for a water leak is in the toilet and how to check if there's a leak? Do you know how to read your water bill? Do you know the best native plants to look for if you want a sustainable, water-efficient and easy-to-maintain garden? These and many other questions were addressed at the Pasadena Water & Power Water Conservation 101 Workshop this Saturday. The free workshop was free and open to Pasadena residents. Their next workshop will be June 12.

I scored some great water-saving tools, which PWP offered the nearly 40 attendees that came on Saturday. I highly recommend their workshop because it was very informative about just small stuff you can do to be more conservative and save on your energy bills, plus they shared some amazing rebate programs like the Cool Trees Program and Efficient Home Cooling Incentive Program. I am planning on buying and planting a tree next to my bedroom window--you get a $50 rebate for installing a shade tree to reduce your need for home cooling costs (up to 20 percent). I'm also considering purchasing a low-impact Energy Star air conditioner and getting a $75 rebate from PWP. Just show proof of purchase. And if you didn't know, keep your AC at 75 degrees (If it's good enough for outdoors, it's good enough for indoors!).

Perhaps a lot of people don't even know where Pasadena gets its water (35 percent from local groundwater and 65 percent purchase from Colorado River and Metropolitan Water District Bay Delta Region) and perhaps they also didn't know that this is our THIRD year in a drought. This and much more information was offered throughout the workshop, which was led by a horticulturist and PWP representative, both whom had much knowledge to offer listeners. Since moving here three years ago, Pasadena has been great about offering resources and opportunities to educate their residents on how to be more green and lower their waste factor.

The water saving kit included a bucket, two water-efficient shower heads, a moisture sensor, a hose nozzle, a soil probe (measures PH balance in soil), some groovy fridge magnets on being more conserving and a gardening journal, which includes planting tips and photos of native California plants.

The kit also included a leak detection kit, which you can test on your sink or toilet leak. You toss the little dye tablets in your toilet tank and wait 15 minutes. If you see any blue in your bowl, that means you have a leak and that maybe your flush valve ball needs to be replaced! I was relieved to find that mine had no leak!

The kit also included a lovely state of California-shaped planting seed of California Poppy, handmade from recycled, biodegradable fibers and embedded with seeds. Can't wait to plant this and have local, California Poppy flowers for the home (and yep, spring is the perfect time to plant them!).

Sunday Afternoon

2010-05-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

Just spent a quick afternoon hearing Sandra Tsing Loh's new science show--very wacky and educational (even if we're talking about Boole Algebra). The hour-long performance featured Caltech professor Dr. Shuki Bruck, as well as The Brady Bunch's cousin Oliver (Robbie Rist), who, as part of the show, pretended to be a Caltech scientist. The actual Caltech scientist, donning a tee that said, "I tried to be good but then I got bored," offered just as humorous responses to explain Boole Algebra. After the show, was a wine and meet-and-greet session. I had a nice moment to talk with Sandra since our interview. Apparently she is also teaching a writing class at USC, in addition to testing out this new family-friendly version of her science show, and hosting her current KPCC radio gig. An odd observation perhaps, but when you're talking with her face to face, she sounds exactly as if you're listening to that same distinctive voice you hear everyday on "The Loh Down on Science."

More on my Sunday afternoon.

Francesca getting ready for dinner, post sunning.

Huntington Garden succulent baby doing just fine.

"I'm from South America" and other Fizzy Adventures

2010-05-15T16:58:00.000-07:00

Last night provided more than its share of entertainment, not just from the company of an incredible editor/friend, some delicate sparkling wine and a chocolate souffle with hazelnut finish -- but an interesting man, apparently from South America.

I am fine meeting and talking with new people, that's sort of an expected element when you venture into the bar scene, in this case, we had chosen Pop Champagne in Pasadena. Very pink, girly, not cheesy nor loud, but actually comfortable enough to chat with a friend at 10 p.m. After making our perch at the bar and exhibiting an obvious interest in wanting to catch up, chatting incessantly to the point we often had to be flagged down by the bartender when he brought us our sustenance of food and drink.

Then he poked in.

"Are you getting food?" "Are you drinking champagne?" "I'm from South America." Yeah, that's great. "I'm from South America." Yes, I heard you, thank you. OK, the problem I have has nothing to do with men trying to start a conversation with a girl (that takes a lot of courage, I get it), my issue comes from a man or woman not understanding--or IGNORING--social cues in the twenty-first century. The best way I can say it: It is like they never learned how to survive or refused to adapt to the rules of decorum and manners. I'm not talking about tea-and-crumpets kind of manners, I'm referring to the way you act when you're in the real world element. You don't drop your pants while in a restaurant, you don't push people into the street in front of a car and ... you don't continue to interject a forced conversation upon two well-dressed (read: not dressed as sluts) ladies having a personal conversation, er, SIX TIMES.

After the fourth or fifth time literally interrupting our conversation about life, love and work, it was suddenly obvious to me that Mr. South Africa wasn't just lonely and interested in small chat, he was just plain ... clueless. Either out of annoyance or ignorance, Mr. South Africa wasn't get a clue, any of them actually. And I think that's when I stopped politely responding, "yes, I think we're getting the souffle du jour," "sure, I enjoy my champagne" and even offering a reciprocal cheers when he abruptly and haphazardly extended his arm -- drink in tow -- in front of my face. "I'm South American" he echoes a third time.

OK, now I have to say something.

"Can you please stop? I'm trying to talk to my friend" I offer with a kind but firm tone.

And that's when it started. The Portuguese, I mean. A flood of jumbled up angry, backward-sounding syllables, from which I could only make out "muto bono" because a Portuguese-speaking friend had once told me that in college.

"I think it's time to leave" my friend proffered.

"Good idea!"

To add insult to injury, Mr. South America even read our bill and started to advise us on the constitutes of a good tip.

"Adios un-amigo!"

Ugh. Remind me not to hang out with champagne-drinking, Pasadena-visiting South American men...ever. Cheers!

Aim High, Swing Loh

2010-05-15T14:59:00.000-07:00

I recently interviewed radio host Sandra Tsing Loh of KPCC. It was for the May Women in Arts issue, which I thought featured an elegant shot of art consultant Merry Norris--whose repertoire includes working as a collector for downtown's MOCA and aiming to get Shepard Fairey for the West Hollywood library.

I had a fun time talking with Ms. Loh, she is an amazing conversationalist (I would hope so if you've hosted your own radio show on KCRW and KPCC) and enjoyed telling me about her time at Caltech, being Caltech's first alumna commencement speaker, how she made it to the top and stayed there and of course, how she and her writers every week create the fast-talking "Loh Down on Science," which offers equal components of wacky, science sound bites and pop commentary. Tomorrow, I am attending a test pilot live performance of Loh's public radio quiz show--an invite extended to me post interview. Should be fun and stimulating.

Please check out my story on Loh and leave your comments for christ's sake. And if you have more time, listen to one of my favorite of Loh's programs, Escape from Wholefoods (it's in four parts), an episode where she ventures into Pasadena's gargantuan Whole Foods on Arroyo and sees if she can escape without buying a single thing. Didn't know this, apparently my local grocery store (if I can even call it "local") is the largest Whole Foods west of the Mississippi. Wowzer.

Let's Not Water Down the Problem

2010-05-12T20:51:00.000-07:00

Nothing irks me more than seeing someone brush their teeth or wash their dishes with the water running full blast—I mean where the water is spraying everywhere but NOTHING is underneath the faucet. I didn’t think I had many pet peeves, but that is definitely one of them. If watching fresh, precious water go straight down the drain without any use is not an obvious enough visual to know what waste looks like, I don’t know what is.

Seriously. Where is my documentary on water waste? I'd Netflix that!

But I come from the school of rehabilitation, which is why I’m sharing some info about Pasadena Water & Power offering their residents a free Water Conservation 101 workshop. Not only that, participants receive a free water saver kit ($40 value), and a chance to win a smart irrigation controller ($400 value) to boot. See their snazzy flyer.

In addition, you'll get tips on what the best water-efficient landscaping is for our Southern California climate (ahem, succulents anyone?), and finally learn how to read your water bill. I signed up for the May 15 class, 9 to noon, but they also have another class on June 12. Workshop will be held at the Salvation Army Pasadena Tabernacle, 960 E. Walnut Street. Call (626) 744-3715 or just register online here. Just be sure to have your PWP account. If neither of those dates work for you, you can always check out their 24/7 online gardening class, which teaches you native plant selection, irrigation basics and landscape maintenance. I may have to check out the Native Nights class, which shows the benefits of using native California plants for a more water-efficient, low-maintenance, year-round blossoming garden.

Happy water saving and see you (hopefully) at the workshop!

Not sure how much water is actually being wasted in your everyday routine? Check out some quick facts here from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California:

-Today, some 25 million Californians face an ongoing water shortage (19 million being from southern California)

-Turning off the water when brushing your teeth saves three gallons of water a day.

-Spending only five minutes in shower saves 25 gallons each time.

-Wash only full loads in dishwasher save 15-20 gallons per load.

-Fixing leaky faucets can save 20 gallons a day.

Swimsuit Season Equals Workout Season

2010-05-10T22:56:00.000-07:00

It's always funny to me how as soon as the tiniest glimmer of summer season rolls into Los Angeles, suddenly everyone discovers an inner wanton need to exercise till the cows come home. Well, it is Los Angeles and we're not exactly a "layers" kind of crowd if you know what I mean. I'm guilty of this fair weather fan-of-exercise as well. There's no question I get excited for the warmer seasons because that means easy going, comfortable tanks and shorts and breezy dresses. Plus, I get cold so easily it even annoys me that I have to keep an emergency-cold sweater in the car. Good thing for me, it feels like summer comes a little early (and stays a little longer) in Pasadena. It's great until we reach August, but we'll blog about that later ... Today, I was happy to see these workout vids featuring Tracy Anderson, who is pretty decorated in terms of who she's helped tighten and strengthen (Gwyneth Paltrow and Madonna). These are great short vids if you got some living room space and 20 minutes. Remember, these should offer a good challenge since it's engaging more than just your core muscles. In other words, don't just swing your legs aimlessly and hope it works. Really think about the muscles you're using and try to challenge yourself where it feels the most weak, whether that's your legs, sides or stomach.

Even if you're a fair weather fan-of-exercise, these options are so short, you'll quickly jump start your endorphin high, and can do them while watching Family Guy -- which isn't half bad as I've recently discovered.

Kick Away Those Love Handles

No Butts About this Workout

More workout vids from Tracy.

Prickly Love

2010-05-09T20:07:00.000-07:00

If you’re like me and other green thumb-challenged folks, you’ve killed (i.e. overwatered, underwatered, sunburned, or neglected till death ensued) your share of once-living-breathing plants. We get it; you want to fill your home with impressive flowers and foliage. Unfortunately, a number of plants can require a lot of general maintenance, which many of us can’t – or, let’s be frank, refuse – to offer. But rather than, er, planting the blame on yourself for your orchids dying before seeing their first birthday, take a cue from floral designer Kelly Harris of Succulent LOVE.

Harris started her company from what she calls, “embracing an obsession.” The two-time Unique L.A. designer couldn’t get enough of the hardy, yet modernly elegant succulents and began her venture as purveyor of the little plants following her Palm Springs wedding. Her wedding, which featured an ensemble of textures, colors and arrangements of the native desert beauts, was later featured in Knot Magazine. Everything from the bouquet, centerpieces (later doubling as favors) to décor was inspired from succulents.

“I really loved designing with them and got some great responses after the wedding,” says Harris. “I decided to turn my time playing in the dirt into a business.”

Known to thrive under even the most neglectful plant owner, succulents do best with infrequent watering and when left to bask in the sun. Moreover many succulents, including Agave utahensis, Yucca whipplei and Opuntia phaeacantha (Mojave prickly pear) are local to California and sustainable since they require less of a resource like water and fertilizer.

The SucculentLOVE collection arrangements are planted in vessels, fish bowls, crates, mason jars and her newly available beastie ceramic models. “The beastie planter was a collaboration with Jen Kuroki of Jen E ceramics,” says Harris. “We teamed up and will be offering new designs in the coming months as well. The beastie is currently available, but as each one is made by hand there is a bit of a waiting list before your beastie can come home with you.”

SucculentLOVE offers personal orders, events and weddings and is available onlineand at Firefly at Abbot Kinney. Spaced on Mother’s Day? It’s still not too late toorder mommy dearest her fav succulent or cacti combination.

Not sure how to tend to your new prickly love? Check out Kelly’s personal tips on how to care for succulents.

Be sure to read this article and other green living tips at your daily thread.

What Habit Did You Shift Today?

2010-05-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

Today unfolded into a beautiful Sunday spent in the sun at Coldwater Canyon. Tree People hosted the event, Celebrate Motherhood & Mother Earth, to ahem, celebrate both being green and the launch of pregnancy awareness month (PAM). The setting couldn’t have been more of a treat, with lush greenery and hiking trails galore. High profiles included actress/beauty entreprenuer Josie Maran, holistic author Anna Getty and Ricki Lake, who, along with dozens of Angelenos walked the area and sampled the vendors.
One of the items discussed during the panel (see photo below) was what earth-unfriendly habit you shifted or changed lately. One woman on the panel, Elizabeth Rogers, author of "The Green Book," offered this small but smart tip. "I made my own at-home spa body scrub." Rogers, who professed she was not a crafty person, combined olive oil and brown sugar -- and in less than an hour, voila, homemade body scrub. I found this simple recipe online. One recent thing I feel qualifies as a shift in my habits was getting more water conscious. Granted, I DO NOT pay for my water bill, so this was not out of saving $ - although that's usually a bonus when being more sustainable and conserving. Two months ago, I installed this low flow Roadrunner showerhead by Evolve. Ever brush your teeth or do another activity, while the shower "warms up"? Bet you never realized about 8 gallons of water (per every five-minute shower) actually gets wasted going straight down the drain. The way it works is I turn on the showerhead and as it warms up to about 95 degrees its trickling mode kicks in, basically cutting off the water. When I'm ready to jump in, I just pull a little chord and presto! Hot water ready and flowing just for me.
I think the whole event, regardless if you're a mommy-to be or not, provided great examples, tools and (locally made) products worthy of any eco-curious person to take note of. Yes, I did see A LOT of baby-lugging men around the event too! Just goes to show, being green isn't just for the ladies.
Below are some of my favorite vendors I checked out.

The vendor scene at Coldwater Canyon.

Vendors were reachable via trails and steps in the area.

A garden sits atop the Treepeople lot.

The nearby conference building is LEED certified.

Treepeople's bathroom even had the dual-flush toilets.

Displays from SucculentLOVE were scattered throughout the event.

Fishbowl fabulous. I am planning on purchasing one as a housewarming for a friend who just moved into her new place.

A wall of paper roses made for an earthy ambiance.

Goers walk to and from vendors at Treepeople.

Arcona Skincare's setup in the conference building. Arcona is L.A.-based and named after chemist and founder Arcona. They're ingredients are cold-processed leaving cosmeceutical-grade ingredients like enzymes and antioxidants, active. Most skin care products are heat-processed, loosing a loosing a lot of original nutrients.

Arcona was giving out sample kits like this, which include a cranberry toner The pink color is made from beets - something I've seen cupcake makers do.

Bellybuds are speakers that plug into your ipod or digital music player and adhere to the belly. It sticks with an adhesive hydra gel (skin-safe adhesive). Sound-dampers help keep noise level down for passer byers if the mommy-to be is out and about.

One happy prego woman walked around to show off the ultra-cute Bellybuds.

There were myriad children's clothing vendors. This little tee caught my eye because of the message, "Drive a hybrid."

I stopped by the Compai table to say hi to its co-founders Faith and Justina Blakeney (yep, they're sisters). I've written on the line before and it's a great sustainable option if you still like a little eclectic funk in your eco-friendly clothes.

I snagged a little sample of vegan, Fair-Trade chocolate Nicobella. Some of the richest chocolate. For this event, they debuted their Nicobella Mama bar, made with 72 percent chocolate with candied walnuts and toasted flax. But all their bars are rich in antioxidants, Omega-3 and fiber. Above is their lovely line of truffles.

The Coolhaus ice cream truck also made its way through the trails to treat Treepeople goers.

Echo, the water sponsor, started on the premise that there was no need to ship water from long distances, use filtered local, municipal water. The co-founders connected on Facebook after high school, decided they wanted to embark on a worthy project and the rest is history.

I snagged a couple sample bags of Seasnax, a seaweed alternative to chips. There are tons of seaweed snacks out there, but how many of them are made with 100 percent olive oil? And if you're wondering, yep, they're delicious.

A couple of years ago, John Weaver, the master roaster for Pete's Coffee left his post to start a Fair-Trade, organic Weavers Coffee.

Beautiful sustainable wood sculptures made for unique decor.

This modern-ish pendant lamp caught my eye and made me wish they were on sale there.

Tête-à-Tête with Tim

2010-04-23T17:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon I was assigned to go talk with America's favorite style guru, and host of Project Runway Tim Gunn, who stopped in Pasadena. Gunn, the three-year Chief Creative Officer of Liz Claiborne, parent company to Kate Spade, offered colorful advice on style, attire tips and of course, what to expect from the colorfully monochromatic brand this season. Gunn's San Gabriel Valley landing attracted dozens of stylishly coiffed women and men - armed with complimentary champagne -- all whom literally filled the Colorado Blvd. shop to the doorway.

"This is a very fabulous Kate Spade-looking room," proffered Gunn, who spoke at length on style tips and color choices, dropping his infamous lines, "Make it work!" and "Don't disappoint me!" to an enthusiastic crowd. Seriously, everyone was all smiles as they caught a glimpse of the famous Parsons and fashion icon who's mentored countless now-major designers. I sat down with Tim for our tête-à-tête, where he discussed his first visit to Pasadena, being the Liz Claiborne CCO, finding the silver lining and responsbility among this economic downturn and getting the right value for the dollar. Mid-interview, Gunn even offered a quick compliment on my feather earrings. I found Tim to be one of the most genuine interviewees I've had, contrary to working (I'm guessing) around fashion divas, Tim offered a firm handshake or two and caring smiles before and after our interlude. He was one of the first high-profile interviews to also tell me back, "thank you, it was a pleasure talking with you." I'll post it here when my story comes out next month. Until then ...

Smart People in Business

2010-04-08T11:03:00.000-07:00

Check out this great story from Shop-Eat-Surf on my brother-in-law Brad. I'm posting this story written by Shelby Stanger. It's from a month ago, but a goodie.

Core Careers: Brad Lyle, Sole Technology's Director of Sales
By SHELBY STANGER | March 10, 2010 06:00 AM

Today in our Core Careers series, Sole Technology Director of Sales Brad Lyle shares the three most important lessons he's learned in his career, how he keeps his team positive in a tough retail climate and his tips for prioritizing.

What were you like as a child and teenager? Did you know what you wanted to be when you grew up?

I was always pretty mature for my age, very focused on enjoying life. I was the guy all my friends' parents (or girlfriends) wanted around - a good influence I guess, which really just meant I didn't get in much trouble and stayed focused on finding good waves for fun. I always had a pretty level head.?? I knew exactly what I wanted to do. My dad was always in sales, so I planned to follow that same path, but I also knew early on that I couldn't sell something I didn't believe in or have a passion for, so being able to realize that goal in our industry is a blessing I am grateful for. We are lucky!

How did you get started in the industry?

A good friend of mine, Cordell Miller, was a pro surfer/shaper in the early 90's who needed help running the business aspect of creating a surfboard label. He made me a partner in the business and the rest is history. So surf hardgoods was my start, but like anything, the relationships I established then were instrumental in getting my shot at Sole Tech, where I still enjoy coming to work every day.

What are three key lessons you have learned during your career?

1. As a leader, it's all about them (them, being the team you lead). Nobody can do a great job alone, and if your role is to lead, then it's critical to achieve your own success through your team's success.

2. Have a plan. A good idea is just that. A good idea, with a plan to execute it, leads to a good end result.

3. Always follow the part of your gut that says, “This is the right thing to do.” When you do that, you're probably making the right call and will sleep well. If not, you'll at least learn something valuable!

Can you explain what you do now?

I direct sales for all of the Sole Technology brands here in the US - Etnies, eS, Emerica, Altamont, and 32. It is an honor and privilege to work in a company with a family vibe, great brands that really stand for something, and an owner I know and trust. To do things for the right reasons - that perspective makes all wins exciting and all challenges worth fighting.

What is the biggest challenge at work at the moment? How are you handling it?

Adjusting to a new reality for the state of our market, and the state of retail in general. I am doing all I can to create a low stress environment for my team and focus on the top priorities; keeping good perspective every day, and partnering up with specialty retailers that keep the spirit of our action sports culture alive. In the end, we need them to remain profitable in their support of our passions, so leading the effort of our team, to facilitate that, is a top priority in my work.

What qualities do you value in your direct reports?

Dedication to our brands and retail partners, seeing the big picture, taking action, and doing what's right with integrity - knowing I can count on them.

You have a lot of demands on your time. Any tips on how you juggle meetings, email, projects and managing employees?

Prioritization! Having a proactive plan to address the biggest priorities first, in the time frames needed, and keeping commitments aligned with what is realistic. You can't do everything, but you better deliver what's necessary, in all aspects of life and business.

I try to tackle the really quick things (like less than a minute) on the spot, delegate what's appropriate, and plan the rest. I also try to be clear when, "No," is the most appropriate answer, but to do that, you must know clearly what is more important and stay focused on that, and then some things are urgent and important. Knowing when to drop everything and handle a true emergency can sometimes have a great impact to many things beyond the obvious. So yes, it's a balancing act to say the least, but I love it!

What has been your biggest accomplishment at your current job?

Establishing and maintaining an A+ sales team in the US to keep all of our brands in a strong position with our valued retail partners. That's a bit broad I know, but really that's what I’m most proud of - my team and their accomplishments through some tough retail periods that haven't been easy to navigate.

What’s the best advice you have ever received?

Live each day like it could be your last. Life is a gift, not to be wasted.

What do you want to be doing in five years?

The same thing as now - striving to have a positive impact on anything I do, whether it be loving my wife, raising my kids, growing our brands, serving our retailers, or something I haven't even dreamed of yet, you can bet it will be doing something I believe in, with 100% effort to a balanced list of priorities. I would love to have the professional portion of that be here at Sole Technology after five years of growth and prosperity.

Where can we find you when you are not working?

In the ‘burbs taking care of my family, in the water, on the hill, or on the golf course. Aliso Viejo, CA is home and I love it!

Tavin: A Taste of World Bazaar in Echo Park

2010-04-06T00:43:00.000-07:00

If you haven't had a chance, check out a recent post of mine on one of Echo Park's chicest boutiques. Tavin.

Elle Decor and More Happy News

2010-03-26T14:22:00.000-07:00

This month offered some unexpected and charming surprises, from getting my own bungalow in the land of heaven (no, literally my neighborhood is called "bungalow heaven"), acquiring my first flat screen monitor (thank champagne with Amelia for that one), getting to redesign an entire home on my own, to having something I'd written, published in a national magazine, Elle Decor. For as long as I can fricken imagine, I'd always wanted to break into national consumers and technically I have, so I'm letting myself feel a little proud of somehow convincing Editor in Chief Margaret Russell that my scribbled commentary on the changing media landscape was worth her beans to be selected and placed among the lucky few in her kingdom of glossy.

Very soon I will be at the editorial helm of one of the Seven Sisters, or the like. Until then, you can read up on my latest post at your daily thread.

As I write this, the phone is ringing (don't worry, not on my desk) and I'm experiencing the irritating feel of 68 degree office a/c - all the while thinking of the beautiful weather I'll encounter this weekend and all the fun I'll have scouting Apartment Therapy and Craigslist for a buffet/credenza and working on my house. Just last night, a friend helped me set up my kitchen counter and island situation. TGIF (thank God I've Friends) Click here to check out my new home.

Keep in touch,
sarah

If You Give a Writer an Onion

2010-03-12T23:37:00.000-08:00

Something set me off the other night. I was literally chopping stuff for dinner and enjoying a glass of wine, feeling really mellow. When, without warning, I suddenly stopped chopping; put both hands on the chopping block and started feeling a flood of frustration and curious thoughts about the past. Feeling so relaxed, I had unknowingly dropped all emotional guard and became a flood of emotional states--past and present. Without a second to flex whatever physiological muscles I had to hold it in, my eyes let out. Something inside me that I had resisted for so long, suddenly and so mercilessly flooded my surface. I wish I could blame my pathetic tears on the half-chopped onion.

I’m not the best orator by any means, but put me in front of a typewriter and I can conjure up and convey feelings in ways as comfortable as one is with breathing. I’m sorry if you’re a man and you’re reading this, but the thing I was most frustrated about at that moment was, well, the men I’ve had in my life—to be more precise, the way I had allowed myself to imagine the WAY MEN SHOULD BE. Here is what the uber romantic Romeos in my life have dished thus far:

“I think we should see each other for a few hours this weekend.”

“I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s embarrassing to think about Sarah while out in public. In short, you make me horny.”

“I’m not really a good dancer, but a guy says that because it impresses the girl.”

“Have you rid yourself of that tan line?”

Here’s what I was frustrated about. Not just the let down, but the build up about men. At 27 years old, I’ve decided guys, like the stupid nice and giving ones you see in movies, in fairy tales, or the ones you make up in your journal during high school, simply don’t exist. They're a castle in the sky. (I’m talking to you ridiculous Twilight and You’ve Got Mail gals). Bottom line: we’re going about it all the wrong way.

Think of it this way. Does the idealized woman portrayed in the form of Angelina Jolie to Salma Hayek—mother or lover—exist? Aren't these obviously exaggerated itemized qualities (perfect smile, sex life, to mother of your children) as unreal as the prince who kisses his bride to blissful consciousness? Women, perhaps, for a variety reasons, I feel dote more on this standard than do men (we are more emotionally, than visually stimulated than men). From the day they’re old enough to read Sleeping Beauty, they begin to nurture this incredibly impossibly romantic and passionate notion about men. Having recently witnessed a handful of long-term relationships—including my own—come to an end, I feel I can speak from effing experience. Let me explicate: They do exist, just not in the fabricated (stupid) sense women expect. They might exist for a weekend, a month in Europe or maybe even a few years or decades. A time structure shouldn’t take away from your experiencing that “now happiness” that even decades later, you will still recollect and secretly smile about in your car when a certain song comes on.

Why can’t we depend on that thing that has truly proven itself over the existence of our species—change.

I won't recoil if you call me a jaded Jennie, as my NYC friend recently did. But I’ve felt some dramatic changes in me in the last year and I’m starting to fall into the belief of having multiple “true loves.” And who says that’s a bad thing? Life is a gift and variety is definitely a part of that. They say reach for the moon, even if you miss you’ll be among the stars (blah blah blah). I’m learning part of “reaching,” is actually half the fun. Forget the moon, ladies, let's grab as many stars as we can--and maybe avoid chopping onions for a while.

Workspace: A Year and Four Months Later

2010-02-07T13:23:00.000-08:00

My mom was right. Time does move faster as an adult than as a child. She used to say stuff like that to me all the time (usually while I rolled my eyes at her) and I never believed her. I guess she just wanted me to stop fretting over the present moment, which obviously is the opposite of my problem today. I'm SO focused on what will (read: should) happen in the next week, month, year, five years, etc.

So what has happened in a mere year? I present my workspace from a year and four months ago. Can you tell just from this photo I took today how much has changed in my life? Probably not. Let me happily expound.

Big news first, in exactly 19 days, I will be moving into my very own place, a Victorian house in Pasadena's Bungalow Heaven that was split in half and made into two apartments. It's actually my boyfriend's former place (ahem, his place of 10 years). Suffice to say, I know the place pretty well, including the neighbors, who are all great. My new workspace will offer me a window view - instead of me using my mirror for a view of the outside world.

I'm happy too that it will be quiet - a prerequisite for any apartment if a writer is moving in. My current place is often made noisy by the walkway right outside my window (kids running and neighbors pulling heavy equipment) and by neighbors who feel it's perfectly acceptable neighborly decorum to honk for their friends. Added that my neighbor, whom I share a wall with, has totally convinced me to never buy surround sound, unless I like blowing my neighbors' ear drums. Note: No matter how loudly you try to blast KCRW on laptop speakers, hip hop playing from a car - parked outside on the street - with a subwoofer will always win out. However, the new place will be a standalone house, oh yes! No more apartment living.

The coffee cup sits on an appetizer plate, which my sister gave me a dozen of for Christmas. Works great as a coffee cup plate. I already have a serious collection of plateware, so these are just frosting on the cake!

On my corkboard, I put up a card recently given to me by two new editors I started working with this past year. I won't go into too many details, but I was especially appreciative of one comment, "You have brought a great new voice and energy to ..." There's a process to keeping yourself motivated to pitch amid rejection after rejection - posting inspirations are just one very small way I keep my focus and drive.

At right, you'll notice a stack of Domino magazines. Seriously, I never knew how fun it'd be planning out your interior decor would be until I got the opportunity. I'm bookmarking to my heart's delight at Apartment Therapy and The Nest too. Most recently, I signed up for Netflix, it's terrifically easy and has a collection of vids that blows Blockbuster out of the water. I only signed up after my laptop went out of commission. I was using my boyfriend's laptop, which had Netflix available. Only after I returned it and he started getting recommendations for rommantic, foreign, feel-good movies, did he suggest I get my own account. Next on Netflix: Becoming Jane. Sigh.

Speaking of decor, my boyfriend has suggested the idea that my Umbra fotoholder makes my desk look cluttered. OK, sometimes it gets outta hand. Sometimes it feels like I'm making an exhibition of my bills, concert tickets, letters I need to respond to, I even have Forget-Me-Not seeds that I need to plant, handing from Umbra. Is there a better, cleaner way to put all your etc. papers away? What are your solutions?

Come Undone: ReKnit Redesigns Sustainability, One Thread at a Time

2010-02-07T00:54:00.003-08:00

Here's a recent story I did on an incredibly resourceful and creative mother-and-son duo. You can also read it here on your daily thread.

Many of us have, at some point, been challenged with what to do with an outdated or unwanted sweater. We’re talking about the one that’s brandished with a pattern only the cast from Saved By the Bell would wear. Maybe someone special gifted you with something, er, not so special. Options are limited. Donning it is ruled out. You can’t leave it in your closet, dresser … pile of clothes on the floor collecting dust mites, and you can’t chuck it (definitely an eco-no no with our overwhelmed landfills. If you have time, you can always drop it off at your nearest Goodwill. What are your options when it comes to disregarded duds?

Send it to ReKnit, a a Boston-based project started by graphic designer Haik Avanian and his mom. For $30, Avanian’s mom will unravel all the fugliness from your sweater and repurpose it into something new and rack worthy.

Or shall we say accessory-drawer worthy?

Each month, visitors can vote on the next item to be made. Sweatbands anyone? Starting in February, she’ll be reknitting accessories in the form of two different styles of cut-off gloves. Order soon, since ReKnit limits orders to the first 30 (he only has one mom, after all). Find shipping labels to send off your sweaters here.

“The idea is definitely to have seasonal items so that they're useful for the current month,” says Avanian.

“Reknitting has always been a part of my family and culture,” he says. “We've always been as resourceful as possible, in both tough and economic times.”

He hopes their yarn-y project will offer inspiration to others who might be thinking of resalvaging yarn or other fabric from old clothes (“It's really not that difficult of a skill to learn”). “I definitely think that there's room for repurposing in the world of fashion. People are slowing becoming aware of this option now out of necessity.”

“We're hoping people see the potential in re-using clothing made from yarn, and maybe start similar projects within their families and communities,” he says. “It's a small habit, but many of these small habits can add up to a whole sustainable lifestyle over time.”

Visit them on Twitter to vote on what you’d like to see in March. Current runner-ups include a hat, iPod case, socks and … sweatbands.

The Julie & Julia Effect

2010-02-01T23:39:00.000-08:00

Just finished watching and enjoying "Julie & Julia." And of course, from a writer's perspective, it is happily inspiring. Julie Powell went from cubicle secretary to published author reviewed in the New York Times. The book, turned into a movie, and now, she's likely doing fine in life. And still writing. Although I may not want the same outlined career path as Powell, the thing I'm most attracted to with her story, is that she went for it, and wrote CONSISTENTLY even if she didn't have a "technical" deadline from any editor. She did have a deadline for herself. One morning she simply choose to actually start meeting her deadline for life everyday. I'd like to call this the "Julie & Julia effect" and challenge myself to start making my life's own deadlines - everyday.

How is that not genuinely inspiring?

Cubicle-occupant-turned-author Julie Powell

A "Whole Life" of Writing is Just Fine By Me

2010-02-01T21:03:00.000-08:00

For the January issue of Whole Life Times, I was excited to be asked to be featured on the contributors page. For this issue, I wrote on throwing an eco holiday party and best of green card makers in Los Angeles. I always enjoy meeting and visiting with new local movers and shakers. Hearing people's stories about starting their own businesses, sometimes from nothing (including skills), always makes me feel inspired (more than usual) and driven to go for the things, which I know I would regret not having at least tried to accomplish in life.

I know I want to continue growing as a professional writer, maybe even an author one day. But more importantly, I know that desire is not enough. Somebody at some point, once told me being a writer requires, like many professions (we'll say especially in the creative professions) much practice - if you want to be good and have work that's substantial (er, substantial enough to pull in a living wage, haha), you have to put in the work. Author and New Yorker writer Malcolm Gladwell in his book, "The Outliers," says if you want to become truly good at something and maybe even succesful - whether that's piano, cooking, sewing a button or even writing a magazine article - you need to put in 10,000 hours of practice. That's a whole lot of time spent writing. Well, at least that's one theory in life I'm willing to test out.

Happy Monday everyone.

Worth Your Gamble

2010-01-16T18:23:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, a girlfriend and I took a one-hour tour of a 102-year-old craftsman home in Pasadena. I've lived in Pasadena for a little more than two years, and was excited to know that I was no longer disregarding my beautiful neighboring landscape that is historic Pasadena. The Gamble House today, remains a manse to be proud of. It was originally commissioned as a winter home for David and Mary Gamble of the manufacturing firm Procter and Gamble (yes, the Ivory Soap one). It's important to remember these structures not only as noted architectural icons of our past, but that they literally stand the test of time. Our docent mentioned that this house was built following the San Francisco 1906 earthquake, it was built like a fort with an adjustable frame and was bolted into the ground. But still, 100 years is a 100 years, not to mention California continued to have earthquakes throughout the 20th century. Aside from a chimney lost, it's incredibly impressive to realize a home constructed in 1908 is as structurally sound as it was when it was first built.

Even more impressive was that the Gamble House design and construction took just 10 months (one month ahead of schedule) - quite an achievement, but definitely not its architects (Charles Greene and Henry Greene) only one.

I picked up some amazing knowledge about this house, which made me want to learn more about architecture. There's always more than meets the eye when it comes to architecture.

- The owner had an fixation with Tsuba, a sword guard seen in Japanese culture. The frame where the key hold went, as well as tables and other furniture fixtures were designed with that Tsuba shape. In fact, the wood-building of the outside structure has a Japanese flair.

-Los Angeles air used to breathable and healthy. The house includes "sleeping porches," it was believed that sleeping outdoors and breathing in the night air was beneficial.

-During that period electricity was still in its infancy. Mary Gamble's living room electric lamp had a beautiful moth-shaped design hanging over the lamp shade (made of glass). The reason behind that obstruction was that it was thought to guard against the evil of electricity, or so the docent says.

An interesting history lesson it seems, but also a nice walk down history lane. High recommend. You can check out the tour here.

2010-01-14T23:33:00.000-08:00

Watching a stimulating episode of the Twilight Zone. Why does great TV like this have to come at such an indecent hour?

Interestingly enough, Mr. Beasley, the main character is a magazine writer ... and a malcontent. :/

Computer Haikus

2010-01-14T10:32:00.000-08:00

These humorous haikus were shared with me today, I couldn't help posting them here.

Your file was so big.
It might be very useful.
But now it's gone.

The Web site you seek
Cannot be located, but
Countless more exist.

Chaos reigns within.
Reflect, repent, and reboot.
Order shall return.

Program aborting:
Close all that you have worked on.
You ask far too much.

Windows NT crashed.
I am the Blue Screen of Death.
No one hears your screams.

Yesterday it worked.
Today it is not working.
Windows is like that.

First snow, then silence.
This thousand-dollar screen dies
So beautifully.

With searching comes loss
And the presence of absence:
"My Novel" not found.

The Tao that is seen
Is not the true Tao until
You bring fresh toner.

Stay the patient course.
Of little worth is your ire.
The network is down.

A crash reduces
Your expensive computer
To a simple stone.

Three things are certain:
Death, taxes and lost data.
Guess which has occured.

You step in the stream.
But the water has not moved on.
The page is not here.

Out of memory.
We wish to hold the whole sky.
But we never will.

Having been erased,
The document you're seeking
Must now be retyped.

Serious error
All shortcuts have disappeared
Screen. Mind. Both are blank.

Feeling Framed

2010-01-10T22:11:00.000-08:00

Finally getting to another one of my weekend projects by framing my vintage Vogue magazines. I wish I could stake claim that this creative, artful home design was my idea, but it was my boyfriend who found these original Vogue magazines from the 1930s, 1940s and 1970s. These sorts of beautiful spreads and cover ideas were not just hashed out attempts to market the lastest Hollywood starlett and film, like so many glossies today. In fact, back then Vogue didn't frequently put actors on the their covers, rather they liked models who exemplified the sophistication, glamour, precision of fashion branding that was Vogue. Here are a few that already bedeck my entry walls.

This one is from October 1, 1946.

The left one is from the 1960s (the psychadellic look was enjoyed so much by my boyfriend that he bought himself a copy too). The one on the right is from the 1940s, and is actually one of my favorites. It's summery, artful colors always make me feel a little lighter each time I walk by it in my place.

Check out these gorgeous and dramatic layouts. Love it.

Here's a keeper. The ad actually tells you to "try Camels on your 'T-Zone'." T meaning taste and throat. Lovely.

Life is a Deadline

2010-01-10T14:45:00.000-08:00

At this moment, I'm trying to do a number of things. I'm sporadically shopping online for wish-list stuff like a new comforter and leather-strap watch, trying to fold/put away clothes that have been living on my bed for a few days, frame a vintage Vogue magazine cover, while wearing my Crest White Strips, attempting to read the Times and write some. And I have TBS on, although I'm trying to wean myself off TV, I'm always inclined to have it on in the background.

What has the New Year brought for you so far? In just 10 days, I've felt many things begun to change for me. For the first since college, I'm feeling more opportunistic and driven to accomplish my goals. Life's always got a deadline and I think I can just about expect anything right now.

Iced Iced Babycakesnyc

2010-01-06T01:00:00.000-08:00

Tonight I sat in bed and enjoyed a Babycakesnyc vanilla spelt cupcake. The vegan cupcake boutique, started by Erin McKenna in New York City, finally launched its westside transplant on Sunday in Downtown L.A. During a much-needed lunch break, I made a little stop down 6th Street and bought a chocolate and vanialla cupcake and a whoopie pie.

Even without being traditional, mouthwatering (read: very fattening) sweets, at least not with its vegan, gluten-free and agave-sweetened method. The frosting is actually pretty sweet without being overly syrupy. It's rumored that they sell "frosting shots" at its east coast counterpart. The cupcakes are made with soy milk and coconut oil, among other wheat-free and allergy-friendly ingredients. Healthy foods like blueberry juice, tumeric and chlorophyll are used to create blue, red and green-colored frosting (no artificial colors). What's pretty awesome about Babycakes too is that they come in a case that creatively holds 'em right in place (there's nothing worse than coming home and finding smashed up cupcakes from knocking around in its own box).

Apparently Babycakesnyc is also very known for their donuts.

Yep, antioxidant-rich chocolate muffins at 99 cents.

The girl at the counter recommended the whoopie pies the most. Their incredible taste takes the ouch out of their being five bucks a pop.

My jaw dropped a little when I saw Babycakes sells cupcake tops. :)

Some New Threads

2009-12-28T13:31:00.000-08:00

If you have not already, check out Your Daily Thread, it's an excellent source for eco-focused news, events and shopping, and where I am also a contributor. Since the abrupt (and tragic) shift of Ideal Bite from its own website to the merging with family.com, I've found YDT a great place to search green living tips in Los Angeles.

It's Time to EATZ!

2009-12-22T14:46:00.000-08:00

Last month, for his 32nd birthday, I took my boyfriend to an at-home cooking class, EATZ. The class, called Rendezvous a Deux, teaches a menu that includes making Belgian Endive with Tuna Tartare, Prosciutto wrapped halibut with sage brown butter sauce and cracked potatoes with garlic and thyme. We gobbled up the little appetizers Niki had set out during the process. The good thing though about EATZ is that you're allowed to munch the plates as you make them. I think Saadi and I practically finished off the tuna tartare. At the end of two hours, all 14 students sit down outside on her patio and relax into an eating reverie. Not only did Saadi love it (I know cooking, right?), he called it the best birthday gift he's ever gotten -- which of course, made me very pleased.

Here, Niki demonstrates how to use a carving knife.

Throughout our class, Niki keeps the wine flowing.

Back in September I had actually written about EATZ and the chef, Niki Tehranchi in an article, Home Schooled for the food website, Tasting Table. If you are looking for something unusual and out of the ordinary in Los Angeles, you have to take a class from Niki - food classes range from Rock the Casbah, One Night in Bangkok, and A Flight to India to Cocktail Bash. It's best with a date or a group, although many people will take it by themselves. The night I went, we started chatting with an engaged woman who's parents had bought her a class to take a break before the wedding. The classes run a bit pricey ($85) but for someone who has not of late taken many vacations, I'd say this is one of the most worthy investments for you staycation folks.

I also have to say Chef Niki is so pleasant and immediately makes you feel like you're at home, ahem in her home! A lawyer-turned-chef, Niki knows how to command a room of hungry, would-be chefs and makes it fun along the way. The setup is very idyllic, being at a cotttage in what doesn't feel at all like the middle of Los Angeles. My boyfriend commented that it even felt like a movie set, just with the type of old-world architecture surrounding us.

The table is lifted so that folks have it at cutting level.