suddenly I see

weekend

2012-02-02T19:26:00.001-08:00

Looking forward to the weekend but I know it's going to be crazy busy. We're putting our house back on the market which means getting it together which means putting away, packing, organizing to make it look like you always live like this. First showing is Saturday...which most people would love but I curse and complain (sort of like when the housekeeper comes..happy they are there but cleaning up before they come to clean up!)
DOTS also got slammed with orders (thank you!) so lots of packing (and trying to keep it clean) will be happening. And like any other weekend I would love to catch up on a few zzzzz's. What about you??

*image from here

spot on

2012-02-01T06:05:00.001-08:00

look who's stylin'

2012-01-29T20:26:00.000-08:00

"jcp" formerly known as J.C.Penney must have gotten a new stylist and photographer. Did you get their catalog over the weekend? Great photos and fun articles are sprinkled in here and there among the crazy low prices...did you know sephora make-up is at jcp?

move it or lose it

2012-01-26T16:24:00.000-08:00

Have you read this book? I heard about it and ordered a couple of copies for family and friends that are going through changes in their lives and (obviously) had to read it before I handed a copy over!

The book is super easy to read and basically about how we deal with change in our lives, in our careers, and in general. If you read my last post I mentioned about visiting other schools to observe their cafeterias and see how they handled the day to day lunchtime discipline...and so glad I did! Such great ideas and ones that I hope our school embraces.

That being said when the subject of "change" in the lunchroom was brought up to our custodian (who's been at the school 20+ years) I could totally see who he was in this book. He wanted to "stay in the same room- cheese or no cheese"- because that's what we do. That's how it is.

Maybe I should give him a copy to read?

mind your manners

2012-01-23T21:53:00.000-08:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Tiffany on Pinterest

Source: tumbledownsouth.tumblr.com via Kathleen on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Lesley on Pinterest

This year has been one of the worst for cafeteria and playground behavior at the elementary school where I work. Kids are rude, table manners are atrocious, and having to remind a fifth grader to say "thank you" to an adult after said adult had just done something above and beyond for the child had me scratching my head today (or maybe it was the first grade lice epidemic that is also going on but that's another story.)
It makes me wonder if it's the socio-economic level of children that attend our school...parents not being able to spend quality time with their children and missing the boat about teaching them basic "please and thank you" and table manners or what does go on in homes of families anymore?
Or is it that kids are used to seeing rude behavior practiced on TV shows or on video games (or the lack of common courtesy) and they copy what they see?
And so not to put the blame on others (although as a mother I would have been appalled if any of my children had ever been disrespectful to teachers or left their school lunch tray, leftover food scattered on the table) maybe we as a staff haven't filled in the blanks enough for good social skills and behavior towards others at school or in the lunchroom? We do have an incentive behavior program that promotes kind, caring, attitudes...but obviously; that's not enough.
For the next few weeks a colleague of mine and I will be visiting other schools during lunch/recess time to see if it's an epidemic or if there might be a "magic" potion that we can use to teach manners and social skills 101. What was it like when you were in school?

what's your sign?

2012-01-22T21:13:00.000-08:00

Do you follow your horoscope? I usually never have the opportunity to see what my horoscope is on any given day but I happened to pick up a British magazine on the way home from Paris and was intrigued when they gave me not one month but the whole year to look forward to.
I'm a Gemini and it looks like there will be many changes this year for me...and May 20th seems to be a day that I won't forget.

see you

2012-01-20T14:02:00.000-08:00

"See Food" is one of our newest shirts at DOTS and like most of our shirts, we're playing with words on this one.
Remember when your ten year old brother asked if you wanted "sea food for dinner?" and then opened his mouth to show you partially consumed food particles?! Or when that certain cafe has their menu items in picture form on the menu and you just have to ask the other people if they want "see food" for lunch? Is it just me or does every brain think like this?
Hope you see a good weekend ahead of you...enjoy!

then and now

2012-01-17T20:32:00.000-08:00

When we first visited Saint Remy de Provence ten years ago there was a tiny little restaurant, L'Assiette de Marie, that we stumbled upon after I had read about it in Victoria magazine. I was heartbroken that it was closed but I peered inside the windows and was smitten with the collections and displays. I knew that one day we would be back to see if it was still there.

Fast forward to 2011 and voila! She is still there but has grown up to Le Bistrot de Marie and still holds the original spot along with a patio and canopy that holds more tables on the side of the building. Did we get the chance to eat there? Unfortunately no. Reservations were being taken for New Years Eve and we would be on a plane home. Another year perhaps?

bits of the weekend

2012-01-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

We traveled to Scottsdale to celebrate Peter's 25th birthday. That cake was a "do-over" upon realizing that the original recipe was not meant for high altitude...not the best frosting job (although it was delicious--Magnolia Bakery recipe) but it was finished about midnight the night before. The rest of the weekend was spent in bed with Lola nursing a cold and cough (ugh). Hope your weekend was happy and healthy.

ps. thanks to Peter and Nicole for modeling the latest DOTS tees!

soup's on

2012-01-11T20:33:00.000-08:00

A beyond easy soup recipe and so very good for you. Found it in Martha Stewart LIVING magazine from chef/blogger Amy Chaplin of Coconut&Quinoa. Here's the quick version of the recipe but you can read more about it and find other recipes here.

Creamy Cauliflower Soup with Greens and Dill

1 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped

sea salt

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets (use stem too)

filtered water

5 large kale or collard leaves, stems removed and sliced (I added a few handfuls of spinach leaves and a few kale leaves...same gorgeous color)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or to taste

fresh black pepper

Warm oil in a large pot over medium heat, add onions and saute for 4 or 5 minutes. Add garlic and salt and continue cooking for a couple more minutes. Add cauliflower and pour in filtered water until it reaches just below the surface of the cauliflower, don’t add too much, you can always add more later when blending the soup. Turn up the heat and bring to a boil. Cover pot, reduce heat to low and simmer for 1o minutes or until cauliflower is tender. Add greens, stir and simmer a few minutes longer. Remove from heat, stir in dill and let sit 5 minutes to cool slightly. Using an upright blender, blend soup in batches until smooth, adding more water it’s too thick. Return to pot and season with extra salt and pepper.
(I sprinkled on some toasted sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch...I love that in smooth foods)

cliffhanger

2012-01-09T20:20:00.000-08:00

Have you seen this and wondered if it was for real?

ps. sorry for the commercial...ugh.

back in the groove

2012-01-06T19:58:00.000-08:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Meg on Pinterest

It's been a crazy week around here but it's Friday and I feel like I'm getting back in the groove.
With the why-can't-it-always-be-this-good weather we've been having I've walked to school three times this week. Such a treat because...well...we have to go back to school and it's no fun after a two week holiday (or in my case; a three week holiday in France).
Squeezing in hair, nails, and a Friday massage (it takes a village, peeps) after the 3:00 bell was maintenance this week and restocking and ordering for DOTS kept me busy in the PM hours. The weekend sounds good for more catch-up but (hopefully) some down time as well. Hope you have a good one...keep dancing!

romantic rendezvous

2012-01-01T21:09:00.000-08:00

This little pathway in the center of St. Remy that leads to this

sweet courtyard...

that will soon bring you to another secret spot where husband and I hid a little lock with our initials and date we were married. A secret treasure for us to return and hopefully find one day.

It was difficult to find a spot where we wouldn't interfere with St. Remy's charm and to also find a metal object that our lock would fit around as well! If you happen to go one day...it's in the corridor by Hotel Sade and Musee des Alpilles..out of the way and enjoying the scenery.

happy!

2011-12-31T15:15:00.000-08:00

Our last day that we spent with the cousins was spent at our "home" for a fun afternoon. Husband and I threw together a little french lunch--including an introduction to Barefoot Contessa's Macaroni and Cheese--which was a new dish to them --but one that young and old alike enjoyed (the guests also included a 3 year old and an 80+ year old grandmother!).
While some took naps, we enjoyed La Moulin's gorgeous garden and played pétanque ( a game where the goal is, while standing inside a starting circle with both feet on the ground, to throw hollow metal balls as close as possible to a small wooden ball). There were also trampolines and badminton to play and it was a very happy ending to our trip.

Back to reality and looking forward to 2012! Count your blessings and give hugs to those you love (or a kiss on each cheek if you happen to be french!)

Avignon, France

2011-12-28T12:26:00.000-08:00

Avignon is where the pope was at one time in history so it's a pretty big deal and this palace is also a big deal. It's beyond huge and when you follow the tour you are truly walking in footsteps of the past; although it's hard to comprehend that this city has existed for thousands of years before any boats made it over to America. Where everyone was living in huts or teepees. I guess they had Leonardo Da Vinci and we had Steve Jobs. Too much champagne for the night.

in love with Lourmarin

2011-12-24T04:48:00.000-08:00

Lourmarin, I love you. I hope my hometown will understand how your charm and beauty made it too easy for my heart to dance when I walked your streets. One day I will see you again and wrap my arms around you.

road trip through Provence -part 1

2011-12-23T10:32:00.000-08:00

This is Moulin de la Roque where we are staying. It is an estate from the 1600's that used to be a flour mill. The current owners have spent the last 15 years remodeling the buildings into rooms and homes for people to stay. This is the front of the building and when you go through the arch there are several out buildings where guests stay.

This is the view from our kitchen window. The grounds are gorgeous and there is also a swimming pool, trampolines, and games for summer weather at the far end. Our home that we are staying in is below. It was the original flour miller's house and has been remodeled to include all the modern conveniences. The owners tell us it's gorgeous when the wisteria is in bloom during the warmer months and creates a canopy over the terrace.

So not to be your Aunt Rose with a slide show of our trip; I'll break this up in a couple of posts. Our first stop is Isle-Sur-La-Sorgue. The guidebooks tell you that this is the Florence, Italy of Provence with water and canals that surround the city. We were lucky to hit a market that are common on different days in the surrounding cities throughout the year.

This one is for Ruby. Look closely and you'll see Geese, bunnies, chickens...and they happen to be nibbling on baguettes.

One of the canals in the town. There are very few decorations or advertisements to remind you that it's Christmas...and a big reason why visiting a foreign country at this time of year is a bonus. Plus; many of the villages on our road trip were basically tourist free (except for us!).

with love from Provence

2011-12-22T13:11:00.000-08:00

What is it about french handwriting that makes a menu looks delicious?! And the meal was excellent as well.

~Saint Remy de Provence shopping~

A day trip to Avignon

Our cousins Claude and Nicole..seriously; how cute are they?

snapshots of Paris

2011-12-19T08:56:00.001-08:00

Bonjour everyone! Our time in Paris was wonderful but ended too quickly for me. Here are a few shots from around where our apartment was; we enjoyed the rain and everyone with their umbrellas; shot of husband in a cafe in the Marais...vintage leather chairs and a real boho vibe; cheese, pastries, the girls all in black with tights, leggings and black boots. everywhere. And Bon Marche...such a hustle bustle on the weekend. We begin our time in Provence now...more to come

bon voyage

2011-12-12T20:36:00.000-08:00

We take off on Wednesday and I can't wait to see it all once more. I hope to post while I'm there but depends on the internet connection and how much time is available. Happy holidays and enjoy your friends and family...give lots of hugs and kisses this year.

good goods

2011-12-11T19:57:00.001-08:00

Are these just the sweetest cards to give (or receive)? By Rifle Paper Co., a boutique stationery brand featuring Anna Bond and her hand-painted illustrations and lettering. Gorgeous cards, prints,calendars and so much more (check out the custom invitations Anna does...swoon!)

My daughter received this heirloom recipe card box from Rifle last year for Christmas. It takes local craftsmen 3 months to handcraft locally salvaged hardwood trees and is truly an heirloom to be handed down to generations to come. And speaking of...

Ruby has this limited Alphabet illustration created by Anna Bond

up in her room. Art for all ages!

mix and match

2011-12-10T20:50:00.001-08:00

The BEST story on the black/white coat...I "added" it to my cart at the Anthropologie website but thought how I would never pay the original $499 retail for it. A couple of months later back on Anthro and click to my cart...it had been marked down to $99 and wasn't available anywhere else on the website--SOLD!

a better woman than I am...

2011-12-10T08:52:00.001-08:00

weekend thoughts

2011-12-09T22:12:00.001-08:00

Making a list and checking it twice...so many "don't forget" places to see and explore. This weekend will be a blur with packing, laundry, and last minute details before our trip. Hope yours is magical!

auction fever

2011-12-09T20:03:00.001-08:00

Not sure if it's the holiday season or just dumb luck that I've stumbled across some over the top auctions as of late. Take this 2006 John Galliano Christian Dior wool coat with embroidery giving a rock and roll, gothic vibe to an amazing piece of fashion. The belt is a bit over the top but I suppose you could switch it out to tone down the runway feel. An investment piece to be sure but one that you could enjoy now and perhaps hand down to upcoming fashionistas in your future?

hustle bustle

2011-12-08T13:24:00.001-08:00

We're down to a few days before our flight to Paris and I'm feeling a bit crazed! Closing up orders with DOTS, working eight hour days at school, choosing the best shoes and clothes to bring, packing, and normal day to day life activities (laundry, cooking, cleaning) I'm hoping to fit it all in. But then. then. Paris. The City of lights. I'm over the moon.

push here

2011-12-05T09:12:00.001-08:00

Feet. We don't really think about them unless there's a problem; but they deserve all the TLC we can give them. One of the sweetest things my husband does for me is massage my tired dogs after a long day when we're hanging out watching TV and it weighs in as best thing ever.

winter weekend

2011-12-04T19:10:00.001-08:00

We got snow dumped on us this weekend and a certain pup was loving it. A perfect playground thanks to a nearby golf course allowed Lola to run and play puppy games in the fresh powder.
*oops! totally apologize for the instant-on of this video.

cozy weekend

2011-12-02T14:28:00.001-08:00

What's shakin for the weekend? I'm loving this room..gorgeous colors and mix of patterns, textures, and cozy factor through the roof. Snow is predicted for the weekend along with lots of town Christmas festivities (which we hope won't be cancelled with the snow). Enjoy!

*image here

best gift guide

2011-11-29T21:16:00.001-08:00

If you've just begun looking, on the search, or at your wit's end...this is it. The best gift guide I've seen. One of a kind, independent sellers and boutiques, and all around amazing. Get to Gifted and check it out.

good morning!

2011-11-27T21:45:00.001-08:00

Let's all get some donuts to start the day, shall we?
During my college years when my girlfriends and I would make sure the bars were safely and securely closed for the night (don't judge) we would swing by the local donut shop. It was about 3 AM or so when the donuts were whizzing by us on the conveyor belts and we were drooling as each one would go by and the owner of the shop would look at us, shake his head, and bring out a dozen or so for us to feast on. Heaven.

sunday movie

2011-11-27T13:03:00.000-08:00

What's it about? In modern-day Paris, a journalist finds her life becoming entwined with a young girl whose family was torn apart during the notorious Vel' d'Hiv Roundup in 1942. The film uses a little known event from French history as a starting point for a deeply affecting drama about guilt, redemption, family secrets, the comfort of strangers, and hope in a time of war and madness.
Sound too dark and depressing? I thought so too, but it ultimately proves to be something of an uplifting tale of redemption and forgiveness. Searching for the truth concerning Sarah kept me interested until the final minutes of the film and the performance of Kristin Scott Thomas was excellent as I have come to expect from her in other movies I have her seen her in.

*Based on the best-selling novel by Tatiana de Rosnay

color me crazy

2011-11-23T10:14:00.001-08:00

Let me explain. I love to dress up. The kids and adults at my school also seem to enjoy what I wear so I thought "well if they do...maybe others would...I have a blog...why not?"

Now here's where the problem lies--I don't really like to have my picture taken. I'm uber critical about how it turns out but I also love a challenge. That being said; I decided to snap a few pics and see what would happen.

These are all done on a tripod, on a timer, with no one else around to get the groove of playing model. And yes; color me crazy. What I found out was that models have a talent. It's not just good face but knowing how to place your body to get the best result...it's really difficult.

The last shots with the dress and black jacket were on top of the parking garage in our town. Early morning before work and thinking I wouldn't run into anyone. Wrong. The police pulled up and I had to explain...classic.

happy thanksgiving

2011-11-23T07:45:00.000-08:00

Time to gather with friends and family and be thankful for what we have. what we had. what is to come. Happy Thanksgiving!

3 weeks

2011-11-20T21:33:00.000-08:00

Ran across these and felt the flutter of anticipation...

what's it all about?

2011-11-20T20:08:00.000-08:00

Idea Behind New Mormon Ads: MyFoxTWINCITIES.com

so...have you been seeing these ads as you kick back and watch your favorite television show? Geez; I feel left out...like I'm the only one not a Mormon around here...he is. she is. he is. she is. Don't get me wrong, some of my best blogger friends are Mormons (and most likely yours too) but it's just interesting to have an ad campaign for a faith, isn't it?

smart move

2011-11-16T22:24:00.000-08:00

love Diane Keaton and for Chico's to grab her for an ad campaign is genius.

mad for plaid

2011-11-15T22:19:00.000-08:00

Oscar de la Renta in 1972 and my version today. Found a way cute vintage Pendleton cape that adds some fun to the basics.

book me

2011-11-13T20:09:00.000-08:00

I am searching for a "stick your nose in a book and where did the time go" lengthy novel for our flight to France...suggestions? And if you're planning a long flight or expect layovers during your holiday break might I suggest "I Am Charlotte Simmons" by Tom Wolfe. It's from 2004 and 688 pages and good to the very last period. I read it on a Christmas trip to Mexico and could not put it down.

soup day

2011-11-07T20:40:00.000-08:00

It was the perfect cold, snowy day for soup. This one is from the healthy soup class that I took recently and it's SO good--husband (who was at best leery of trying this) loved it. Here's the recipe along with a few changes I made. Enjoy!

BUTTERNUT SQUASH, PUMPKIN, AND APPLE SOUP

1 medium butternut squash cut in half

(I used the pre-cut ready to go squash from Costco...so much easier!)

1 TB olive oil

3 cups peeled, chopped apples

1/4 cup shallots minced

1/2 cup leek sliced

1 tsp garlic

1 tsp fresh rosemary

1 (15 oz can) pumpkin

3 1/2 cups vegetable stock

3/4 tsp salt

(who knew this would be SO important--tasted it at the end and realized how it needed "something" and that was the salt that I forgot)

1 1/2 tsp. curry powder

1-2 pinches cayenne

(we like the heat- I used 1/2 tsp.)

Black pepper to taste

Pumpkin Seeds

1. Preheat oven to 350. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place butternut squash, cut side down, on prepared baking paper. Bake for 40 minutes until tender. Let cool for 20 minute or until cool enough to handle. Scoop our 1 cup pulp reserving remainder for another use.

Since my squash was already cut; I poured in a cup or so in a baking pan, added a little butter and roasted it the same way. Super easy. I also used the heated oven for toasting my pumpkin seeds...watch out because they can burn easy!

2.In a Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add apples, shallots, leek and garlic. Saute for 5-6 minutes or until tender. Stir in rosemary.

3. In blender or food processor, puree the squash, apple mixture, and pumpkin.

I actually used an immersion blender on the mixture after adding the vegetable stock with the other items in the pot...quick and easy.

4. Return puree to Dutch oven. Slowly add vegetable broth, curry powder, salt, cayenne and black pepper, stirring until well combined. Cook over medium heat until well combined. Cook until heated through. Add toasted pumpkin seeds to soup to garnish for serving.

Lots of anti-oxidants, vitamins, fiber and other good for you at this time of year ingredients.

sunday morning

2011-11-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

Husband is making blueberry pancakes so I can just play around this morning. Just received a painting from Giselle Gautreau (this is her studio above) and am in love. If you're a guest at casa Benson you'll get to enjoy it in your room.
A winter like day today...gray, cloudy, and cool ...but tis the season, no? Thinking Butternut squash/apple soup for supper but we'll see how the day progresses. Enjoy your Sunday!

naked

2011-11-04T13:30:00.000-07:00

I've never been a big fan of being naked. Even during cheerleader days or pilates days when the bod was in great shape...I'd rather be seen with clothes on.
I remember high school when you had to take a community shower after P.E (cue the prison scene...) I would bolt through the water while others would be scrubbing away. Remember Charlotte in Sex and The City in the steamroom with the girls?! Totally knew where she was coming from.
There are some girls (and guys) who do amazingly well in the nude...are you one of them?

stay here

2011-11-01T21:15:00.000-07:00

When we stay in Paris we will be staying in an apartment that I found through airbnb. The recommendations of others who had rented the apartment helped in our decision and the choices were endless. From one bedroom to an entire house or apartment you can stay all over the world at a fraction of the cost of renting a hotel room.
I looked at other apartments offered through leasing agents and the "add-ons" for early arrival, extra towels, etc...just kept adding up so I like the idea of communicating with the owner at airbnb. Have you ever used them for a place to stay?

color me crazy

2011-11-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

For people that actually know me, the following scenario will be nothing surprising. For those of you that don't; just enjoy the inside of my brain.

Monday afternoon I was at the local post office in a line of about a dozen people when this song came on:

I begin sizing up the other people in line thinking how great it would be if we could all start rockin out a line dance while we were waiting for the slower than slow post office attendants to call "NEXT!" Dance moves and camera angles were filling my head and I was going to share my youtube viral moment to the young girl in front of me but realized she would most likely label me as psycho. I then realized who I really needed in line with me at that very moment:

DAVID ARQUETTE. If you've seen him on Dancing With The Stars you will totally know where I'm coming from. We all need a David in our lives. And I needed him at the post office.

season of lights

2011-11-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

Happy November! You know what that means...the hustle and bustle of the holiday season will be here before you know it. That being said; husband gave me an early Christmas gift and memories to last a lifetime.
We'll be in Paris (the city of lights) and Provence for Christmas! Just the thought of the lights, the sights, the sounds, and the smells fills up my senses. Plans are being made and I can't wait to share what our trip looks like.

happy weekend!

2011-10-28T22:02:00.000-07:00

This weekend I'm taking a class on "healthy soups". I love hat and sweater weather but it does inevitably lead to colds or flu season and I'd like to be prepared. I'll fill you in on any great recipes on Monday. Have a good one!

golden(doodle)

2011-10-23T17:53:00.000-07:00

Back to healthy and enjoying the colors and warmth of fall...it's been gorgeous here! If you 've never tried you MUST make Ina's Cream of Wild Mushroom Soup. So delish! The only change-up we made was not to add the quantity of shiitake mushrooms suggested...guess we're not the earthy type.
Got a busy week but lots of fun things being planned. Hope you have a great week.
*hello 7 month old Lola

everyone knows it

2011-10-16T21:40:00.000-07:00

I've been battling a cold for the last few days. You know the drill. Goes from your chest to your head to your nose and now I'm just a mess. I pity the next person with their fingertips on this keyboard. The worst part is I created the most delicious salmon cakes (thank you Ina Garten) and couldn't taste them. I caught the scent for a moment and then it was gone.
Our neighbor told us that she hasn't had the sense of smell/taste for years. How awful would that be? You would miss out on some "natural" odors that most don't want to smell but I would kind of like to know if my house smelled like fart or not.
But missing the taste of chocolate. coffee. a great burger. italian. My bestest friend from work (who no longer works there ~damn you Amy!) and I once talked about that if you HAD to lose one of your senses what would it be?

lazy lola

2011-10-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

Six months old, 42 pounds...this girl has got to get her zzzzz's to keep up. I debated showing this but her paws were strategically placed and I know you only come to the blog for the great articles anyway.

pumpkin time

2011-10-14T21:37:00.000-07:00

Lovin me some fall. Don't you just love the change of seasons? Not just the glorious weather we're having but the vegetables, the soups, the colors...nothing like it. Have a fall filled weekend!

fall break

2011-10-12T12:25:00.000-07:00

Love having fall break and this year was especially fun. The Benson family got together in Portland to celebrate Tyler's 30th birthday (surprise!) and see the sights. We rented a house in the Hawthorne neighborhood via VRBO (have you ever rented a house in another city?) which was perfect for parties, babies, and hanging out.

Made it back home yesterday and am fighting a cold (boo!) but planning on doing a little R&R for our last few days of ~~freedom~~ break.

change in the weather

2011-10-05T21:04:00.000-07:00

brrrr...got cold, wet, and windy here. Hold on to your hats.

sweet as pie

2011-10-04T17:27:00.000-07:00

Fall is finally here and I made my FIRST ever cherry pie --the crust and all! Thanks to Ina Garten for her pie crust tips...it turned out beyond fabulous. What's your favorite kind of pie? And speaking of...have you seen our "sweet as pie" shirt in the DOTS shop? delicious as well.

did she or didn't she?

2011-10-02T21:48:00.000-07:00

The other night when husband went to bed early and I had a boatload of ironing to do; I clicked on Oprah's finale show that's been saved since forever on my DVR to watch once more.
Oprah and I go way back and I remember how powerful the last show had been and sometimes you want (and need) to hear a positive and inspiring message.
Show's over, feeling good, and I remember Miss O giving me (and the world) her email address to keep in touch...so I did.
Short.
Sweet.
Just a "yo" to the O.
Wake up the next morning and "what?!" there's an email from Oprah in my inbox. Seriously? And it could have been a reply from her:

Got your email.

Thank you for watching the finale. I could feel your beating hearts, along with mine, through the TV screen.
I'm off to take a little rest, and then I'll get busy working on OWN.
Take care of yourself.
I'll write soon,
Oprah

so; color me doubting Benson but does everyone get the same email from the O or did she actually read mine and type away in the morning? Want to find out as much as I do? Her address is: oprah@oprah.com Go on now. You've got a letter to write.

drama

2011-09-29T20:59:00.000-07:00

I'm sure it has something to do with the number of women that work at my place of employment; but this year has been the year of drama. Each day seems to end with a cliffhanger teasing you to come back the next day to see how it will play out.

Unfortunately I've unwittingly gotten myself a starring role this week by suggesting a new place to enjoy our office "snack" table rather than in front of the community bathroom. Now that the new room has been secured; every closet decorator is coming out wanting to add their "magic" to what was supposed to be a "simple, quiet" space. Geesh.

How's the drama in your office?

sleep

2011-09-27T22:29:00.000-07:00

How much sleep do you get? I average about 6 hours each night during the week but then make up for it on the weekends and enjoy a much needed 8-9 hours Friday and Saturday night.

lola

2011-09-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

Happy 1/2 year old Lola! from benson on Vimeo.

Miss Lola turned 6 months old over the weekend and we just can't believe it. She's a bundle of energy but cautious when it comes to new adventures; she loves to sleep late when Mom does; she would play chase and fetch all day if we were so inclined. Lola has changed our lives and we're kind of loving it.
ps. okay, okay...if you don't watch the whole minute--take a look at 1:09--that face!

new series girl crush

2011-09-24T21:19:00.000-07:00

Wow. This season of TV is giving us so many great girls to admire,laugh with, and have huge girl crushes on. Just saw "Prime Suspect" on NBC/Thursdays starring Maria Bello and was blown away. Such a great character, story, and Bello is so badass to watch. Love what she says about her character:
"Jane is incredibly frank; honest to a fault; says it like it is; doesn't speak out of both sides of her mouth and doesn't like people who don't live up to that." I seriously need Jane at my place of employment.

*sorry you have to deal with the commercials..ugh.

weekend!

2011-09-23T16:41:00.000-07:00

Who's ready to escape work and have some fun? Thought so. Play hard, eat good, and get a couple of belly rubs.

so happy together

2011-09-22T22:47:00.000-07:00

Were you invited to Barbie and Ken's wedding? Lucky for us that photographer Beatrice de Guigne was there and caught all the special moments between that classic couple. See more here.

cleaning out

2011-09-20T21:57:00.000-07:00

It must be the change in seasons that makes me want to clean out and reorganize my bedroom closet. Folding up the sleeveless tees, the linen dresses, and adding in sweaters, jackets, and scarves. I love this time of year.

memories

2011-09-19T18:27:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Barbra for singing her best for our cat Gabby who is becoming of a certain age. The girl is 15+ years old but recently we’ve started to see loss of reflex, speed, and agility. This song can easily make me feel weepy for her past but grateful for her presence in our lives.

Also in cat news, we have a strange, bold kitty who has most recently become a cat burglar. The unknown white adolescent feline is maimed in one paw but has been caught (more than once) sneaking in through our dog door late at night and eating any kibble that Lola has left behind. The cat bolts as soon as it hears me but it has journeyed as far as our kitchen. Hungry cat was also in our laundry room one morning in the summer and elderly Gabby was none too pleased. Snaps for perseverance.

I just heard from a college friend that her father had passed away in his sleep at 80 years old. It is her and her husband’s first experience with death in their immediate family and it has made them realize how fragile her mother is now that the husband is gone. She was a fierce tiger during our college years and I was there on more than one occasion when mother/daughter arguments would erupt.
My friend mentioned how her husband (who her mother had begged not to marry) was now helping her bereaved mother with debit cards, bill paying, and financial responsibility that comes along with a loss of a spouse.

So not to be a total buzzkill; let’s end with this. This video was filmed in London (with NYC overlays) in September 1981. The take is live and behind a nervous Barbra is a full symphony orchestra with Andrew Lloyd Webber conducting (no studio tricks on this one). Amazing.

better late...

2011-09-18T21:48:00.000-07:00

I realize that mineral make-up has been around for years and I'm sure I tried some form or another of it but recently jumped on the bandwagon once more with Bare Minerals and gotta say...kind of loving it.
Never been into experimenting with the latest and greatest for my face but after reading mention after mention of this mineral-based foundation that gives flawless coverage on Into The Gloss (a blog/website that spotlights people in the industry and their choice for lotions, potions, and cosmetics) I decided to give it a try. Another bonus is that it's actually good for your skin without parabens,dyes, sulfates and stuff you don't need.
I also bought the highly applauded "Make-up Forever" which is a finishing powder "that softens the appearance of imperfections. Completely evens out the complexion for a glowing, radiant look. One universal shade for all skin tones."
Both have made me very happy and it only takes a minute to feel pulled together amd "finished" in the morning.

weekend

2011-09-16T06:59:00.000-07:00

Our town is the host for a pre-party celebrating our state's 100th birthday in early 2012 this weekend. Over 20,000 people are expected in for the next couple of days and our town square is closed off for the celebration. We'll be checking out the fun tomorrow but tonight I've got a massage on the "to do" list immediately after work...sounds like the beginning of a great weekend. Hope yours is too!

time saver

2011-09-16T06:50:00.000-07:00

I'm sort of a freak with cleaning up clutter on my computer that could make it run slow. I guess I feel like since I don't get a new computer every year I need to make the one I have last as long as possible.
That being said I just found out (and you may already know this) that the biggest time suck on your hard drive are videos and videos that you don't realize you have. For the Windows people: click "start" "search" "pictures,music,video" and then "video" and delete those videos that you're clueless how they got there. Wow...my girl is running at top speed today.

DOTS in motion

2011-09-13T21:10:00.000-07:00

In July we hooked up with BlueLily photographers Wendy and Tyler to shoot Dressing on the Side in Portland. We got great pictures, a fun-filled day, and an amazing little film we'd love to share. Enjoy!

ps. If you ever get the chance to have your sweet face captured by Wendy and Tyler on their world tour...don't hesitate..sign up!

no rhyme or reason

2011-09-12T20:30:00.000-07:00

I found both of these on etsy and am smitten. A cat. in glasses. seriously. what's not to love? And her hair. with that hat. sigh. etsy is so good.

sweet

2011-09-09T22:38:00.000-07:00

can Ruby get any sweeter? I think not.

ready, set...

2011-09-08T21:05:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for the weekend? for Fall? for a change? I love this time of year...the crisp clear mornings and planning meals that linger in the oven. My work is non-stop so I think I'll be taking the weekend to breathe and enjoy the change in seasons. What about you?

and if all your friends were jumping...

2011-09-05T21:11:00.000-07:00

we hope you would jump too! Please help Dressing on The Side (that would be my t-shirt business) win a billboard in Times Square...as in New York City Times Square! It's beyond easy to do --click HERE and on the right hand side it asks you to click to vote. The contest ends 9/20 and we're in the top 5% at this point...crossing our fingers...and THANK YOU for joining us in jumping for joy!
ps. you can vote EVERY day and we would love it if you would!

did you know?

2011-09-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

Back in the golden years (that would be those years before all this recession business hit...) there was no second thought of buying $300 sunglasses. I live in Arizona and a girl's eyes need to be protected so why not do it in style?
I ~~impulsively bought~~ invested in Oliver Peoples and Chanel sunglasses to my eye's delight and threw them around in my car or on my desk without a care in the world. They're classic and I still like them but my cavalier care with them led to scratches on the lenses.
Did you know that the high end sunglass designers will replace lenses for a small fee? I just sent my Oliver Peoples into their repair shop and for $40 I will be getting new lenses to replace the scarred and scratched originals. Little did I know that the lenses for these are "hand dyed and hand cut to insure a perfect match to the frame" and you can be sure I'll take better care this go round.
How to do it? Go to your designer's website and contact them with your problem and they should be able to help...my Chanel quilted frame glasses are next in line.

*pic via theglamourai.com

Lola is growing up

2011-09-04T17:20:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe that Lola is 5 months old now. We got her when she was just a little lamb at 2 months/8 pounds and now she's 30+ pounds but still a young puppy at heart.

The nice thing about getting older is that social skills are improving and we can have play dates with other dogs. Two sister Scotties came by last week to spend the afternoon (this post was going to be titled "two black girls come to visit" but I nixed it). Three year old Bianca and Kate are so well behaved and so quick darting here and there, over and under, up and down rocks, grass, and any other obstacle in our back yard. It was exhausting just to watch.

Lola kept up with them but had lots of snooze time the next day. And so did we.

R&R

2011-09-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was crazy busy with traveling and taking care of a toddler so rest and relaxation are on the agenda for this three day weekend ahead. What are your plans? enjoy!

longing for fall

2011-08-30T22:20:00.000-07:00

Totally diggin long over long for fall.

pop

2011-08-29T22:22:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love a pop of color? The styling of this tabletop is spot on, don't you think?

weekend pics

2011-08-28T21:50:00.000-07:00

What a jam packed weekend we had. We gave daughter and her husband a night away in Napa while we got the gift of staying and getting to know more about Ruby (or "RubyBird" as I like to call her). The blue eyes this girl's got will melt the heart of anyone that's having a bad day...

Lots of "read to me" time by Papa John

and lots of fun at parks and playgrounds with the Bird.

You know you're a good grandpa when you cram your 6foot+ frame into a child-sized slide.

Ruby really started her groove in walking in early August and these Keens are easy to get on and off and look so cute in this size!

Audrey and Josh with Ruby. Sunday morning was spent at the farmer's market ...amazing. Trying to catch a photo of a constantly moving Ruby along with her mom and dad is near to impossible.

So many fruit and vegetable stands along with pastries, hummus, and so many more delicious things to try. Our town is sadly lacking in the variety of produce in our area offered at our farmer's market and we enjoy seeing (and tasting..the pluots were incredible!) everything offered.

have a great week ahead!

three day

2011-08-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

Taking Friday off to travel to California to see a special RubyBird...can't wait! Enjoy yours!

yes

2011-08-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

seriously.
bikes.
stripes.
fedora.
food.
it's perfect.

delightful

2011-08-21T06:43:00.000-07:00

Fell in love with the delight in this little girl's face knowing that Prince William and Kate were close at hand. Life should always be this good.

*image from here

what are you wearing?

2011-08-18T21:33:00.000-07:00

The dog days of August. It's hot.
I try to do my best to add some *wow* to a Wal-Mart fashion crowd at work (not that there's anything wrong with Wal-Mart...but there are so many other ways to make an interesting and inexpensive wardrobe). My job calls for the basics in wardrobe but I try to put a fun spin with fabrics, jewelry, and (later) lots of jackets and sweaters. These are my *go to* items as of late:
Modaspia. Love them. The clothes are so well made and the owner Ursula will answer any questions you may have. Her designs are classic, timeless, and will last season to season...amazing quality.
This "Fiji" dress is made of shirt weight denim and isn't over the top expensive for all the fabulous detailing it has. It's a great basic and I can add boots, a sweater over, or a top under and bring it into fall/early winter.
I have a few other pieces from Modaspia in lightweight charcoal wool (soft to the hand) that I wore time and again last year. These classic pieces make my closet feel like I own a french wardrobe...a few pieces go a long way with jewelry and accessories added for variety.
Stripe shirts. Still not tired of them and they just add a smile to your day. I've gotten mine from J.Crew, eBay, Modaspia, Gap and thrift stores.
Shirt dresses. I've been wearing mine with sandals with our heat but will add leggings in the fall and on top of jeans with boots in the winter. What can I say? Style, comfort, and I'm sold. Mine are from CP shades (I find them on eBay at a fraction of the price) and Alternative Apparel (the company I get most of my tshirts from for DOTS so I'm lucky to get them wholesale)
Check shirts. Love them. They make you feel like you are so ready to take on the day. I usually wear mine as is or over a tank but planning on adding a jacket or a plaid shirt on top to mix it up in the fall. Most of mine I have gotten at J.Crew on sale (every once in awhile they've got amazeball sales- keep your eyes open for 40% off sale prices plus free shipping).
What are you wearing to beat the heat?

*modaspia is on etsy too!

so you think you can dance

2011-08-17T21:35:00.000-07:00

Start the video at the 40 second mark to lose lots of announcer talk. And why a dancing dog and his owner?!
Lola's second dog training class is tonight and I've got high hopes. Seriously; can you imagine your dog doing all this with an audience and all the distractions? What am I saying?! can you imagine your dog doing this at all??!!
Watching the video makes me wonder if I would have most likely rewarded Lola a whole roasted chicken by the end of the song with the amount of treats she gets thus far for what she's learned from class one:"watch me" and "stay close" when walking.

time flies...

2011-08-15T22:07:00.000-07:00

Many moons ago I wrote a series of children's books (The Cupcakes Club) inspired by a group of girls at the elementary school where I work.

From first grade to fifth grade I would look forward to seeing the girls return each fall and enjoy the friendship that they all shared with each other. They were delightful and it was sad to say goodbye to them as they moved on to middle school.

The good thing about living in a relatively small town is that every so often you get to run into some of your favorite kids and Michaela is one of them.

Such a sweet girl and when I mentioned Dressing on the Side t-shirts and if she ever wanted to model("yes! yes! SO cool!) it was a blast from the past to spend some time with her. Isn't it amazing how a few years can change a face? a body? The great thing is that Michaela's joie de vivre is just as infectious as it always was.

Oh? did I just speak french? Take a look at our new shirt and say "bonjour" to BonBon Candies.

sunday reading

2011-08-14T10:40:00.000-07:00

Read any good books lately? I'm in the middle of "Room" and would most likely have read it all if I were on a plane to somewhere...as it is; I only get to read a few pages here and there but I like it.

TGI the weekend

2011-08-11T18:52:00.000-07:00

This weekend I think I'm going to be doing what artist Oliver Voss's sculpture in Hamburg, Germany is ...taking a long hot bath and forgetting the week.
"The Bather" gets lots of visitors rowing boats to get a closer look at the three piece work of art and you can see the appeal. She's 13ft high and 98ft long and will be relaxing until 8/12 when it's time to get out of the tub...er...the lake.

puppy puzzle

2011-08-10T22:04:00.000-07:00

Puppy Puzzle from benson on Vimeo.
When we got Lola we knew she could have the possibility of being an intelligent dog. Everyone says it's the poodle in the goldendoodle that gives her the smarts so we knew we would have to be on our toes to keep her mind busy as well as her growing body.
Lola is 4 months old now and caught on really quick to her first interactive dog puzzle (Dog Magic) and now the Dog Brick. There's quite a few of the Nina Ottosson thinking dog toys and it is fun to see your dog figure them out so chances are we'll get more to amuse Lola (and us). They're durable, easy to clean and available on Amazon if you're looking for your pup to go back to school.
ps. and yes; I am a stage mother.

shoot me

2011-08-05T06:53:00.000-07:00

Dressing on the Side tshirts pulled together a little photo shoot in Portland a couple of weeks ago and we're so happy with the results. Wendy and Tyler from BlueLily Photographers are traveling around the world snapping pics and we were lucky enough to catch them on the Northwest leg of their tour (they've already been to New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Ireland and so many more countries...and all this with two kids under the age of 7!).
We'll be posting more (and a video!) in the next few weeks.

all day color

2011-08-02T21:54:00.000-07:00

Now that my day starts at the crack of dawn and is filled with children, playground, and not much *me* time, I was thrilled to find a lip color that lasts ALL DAY. Seriously. All day. Looks just as good in the morning on the way to school as it does when I head for home.
Revlon Colorstay Overtime Lipcolor. One end smoothes on color that won't come off when you eat, have a cup of coffee, or look "tired" by the afternoon . The other end brushes on a moisturizing top coat with chamomile and soy extract for all-day glossy softness. There's lots of colors to choose from and available at any drugstore.

summer love

2011-07-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

It was a great summer and as the grocery clerk reminded me this afternoon,"...not everyone gets their summer off" when I was bellyachin that I had to go back to work. Have a good Monday and I'll try to do the same.

happy weekend!

2011-07-28T20:58:00.000-07:00

All is well and am looking forward to a fun-filled weekend...hope you are too!

too cool for school

2011-07-27T21:15:00.000-07:00

Teachers head back to school tomorrow but I got a reprieve.
A medical excuse signed, sealed, and delivered from my doctor. Not the best news; but I'm getting another kidney stone blasted out of my body tomorrow...fun times. No pain on this one but since the x-rays show it's there...no reason to let it chillax and decide to show up on my trip to Paris (um...no real plans to go to Paris...but if I did, I certainly wouldn't want a kidney stone while I was there). See you on the flip side!

is it just me?

2011-07-26T22:08:00.000-07:00

...or does Melanie from So You Think You Can Dance bear a striking resemblance to actress Ginnifer Goodwin?

the livin is easy

2011-07-25T22:43:00.000-07:00

This is the last week of summer for me *insert sad face here*. Teachers go back this week and kids start filling up the hallways middle of next. If you're on the East coast I'm sure that sounds like crazy talk...but that's how we do it in the wild,wild, west and southwest.

magic coffee

2011-07-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

I know. It's hot and who can think of coffee, right? Oh no my friend...this coffee...this magic iced coffee is so good you won't think of the heat and it will cool you down right to your toes.
This coffee is cold brewed and has a bit of cinnamon and brown sugar added, which makes it incredibly warm and comforting. The cold brew method is super easy even though it sounds complicated. Just throw everything into a container, let it meld overnight, then the next morning, strain all the grinds out (with cheesecloth) and enjoy! It really is magic.

Magic Coffee

2/3 cups coarsely ground coffee

3 cups water

1 tsp. cinnamon

3 tbsn. dark brown sugar

1 tsp. vanilla (optional)

Put all of the ingredients in a quart jar and stir. Cover and refrigerate over night. Before serving, pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve and then pour back into whatever container you'd like to store it in. For each drink, fill a tall glass halfway with ice. Pour in the coffee until 3/4 full and add milk/ half and half/ cream to taste.

*via une-deux and pioneer woman for the tips and pics

walk this way

2011-07-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

gorgeous dress. And with the shoes? I die.

ready for your close up

2011-07-21T23:03:00.000-07:00

I was fussing all over a certain Rubybird on my trip and loved it.

hands full

2011-07-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

The husband will have his hands full with 4 month old Lola when I'm away this week. Her newest "game" is to dig in the office trash, tear paper to pieces, watch human put torn pieces back in trash, and repeat.

full week

2011-07-17T21:09:00.000-07:00

I'm jetting out of town for a DOTS photo shoot in Portland (please don't rain!) and on the way back I get to see a special little Bird in California (and her mom and dad too!).

name that tune

2011-07-16T16:37:00.000-07:00

One thing led to another (you know how that can happen when you're on youtube) and my Saturday was filled with summer songs from the 70's. "Summer Breeze" is such a classic for this time of year (and Dash Crofts/the brunette looks like he's under the hot sun with the sweat that's pouring off of him...um...make-up!).
Karen Carpenter's still frame looks a little scary but her voice makes up for it...how many times did I think I sang "just like her" driving in my Pinto??!
And Steely Dan is just too delicious with the hair, the clothes, and of course; the music (and what about the intro from Bill Cosby??!).
What are your summer favorites?

Bastille Day

2011-07-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

Our French cousin, Clement, came to visit us during the summer many years ago. He was surprised by all the flags, the wearing of red white and blue, and fireworks that came with our July 4th celebration in comparison to France's Bastille Day. Vive La France to be understated and have the laissez-faire attitude about such a day...
When Clement left to return to his home in Provence he had to make room for "special" American treats. Tucked safely inside his suitcase were boxes of lime jello (this is what he chose from the dessert buffet line in Las Vegas when we brought him there to "experience" real America ) and cans of Hersheys Chocolate Syrup ("my mother has to melt the chocolate and add the cream...it takes so long.") He also convinced his parents to buy a microwave upon his return. Vive L'America!

tuscan salad

2011-07-13T12:44:00.000-07:00

so easy. so good. make as is or we skipped the romaine (doubled up on the green beans) and switched the parmesan for feta last night.
thanks giada.