Tea and Cupcake

Puppies and cupcakes, two of my most favorite things

2009-12-16T11:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday!

I just had to share this post from Rockstar Diaries (another favorite). It made my heart leap and roll and melt, all at the same time. I want a puppy so bad I can barely stand it anymore! This seriously brightened my morning.

{Photos at Rockstar Diaries}

It smelled like fall

2009-11-23T12:13:00.000-08:00

Just because.

Along our Sunday walk up the ever-charming Fillmore Street we stopped for some spicy hot chocolate. After we got to the top of the hill, I looked back and saw these pretty colors in the sky.

And it did....it smelled "cold," like fall cold. I distinctly remember the fall cold smell as well, and absolutely love this description of it over on Reading My Tea Leaves. Exactly what I was thinking. Beautiful.

Tea and Pumpkin Cupcakes

2009-11-23T07:48:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty excited about one of my more successful cooking projects this weekend: pumpkin cupcakes. I made a few simple modifications to this recipe and the result was terrific.

I added more spice (doubling the cinnamon) and threw in some clove for good measure. The pumpkin spice ratio stood up well to the pumpkin puree without undermining it. Think warm, spicy aroma of hot mulled cider.

I used my own recipe for cream cheese frosting - because really, one simply cannot have a pumpkin cupcake without its cream cheese frosting counterpart! I prefer a frosting that smacks of the savory creaminess of cream cheese, though is still sweet--just not too sugary sweet.

Plus, they made the house smell so sweet and toasty.

Pumpkin Cupcakes
Adapted from Martha Stewart

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon coarse salt
2 to 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground clove
1 cup packed light-brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
4 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree

1/ Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake pans with paper liners; set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice and clove; set aside.

2/ In a large bowl, whisk together, brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, and eggs. Add dry ingredients, and whisk until smooth. Whisk in pumpkin puree.

3/ Divide batter evenly among liners, filling each about halfway. Bake until tops spring back when touched, and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes, rotating pans once if needed. Transfer to a wire rack; let cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting

8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3 cups of confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt

1/ It's simple. Throw the above ingredients into the bowl of your trusty mixer with the paddle attachment fitted (hand mixer works great, too). Whip away. Whip just long enough to get a smooth, fluffy but not overworked frosting. Start adding the sugar slowly so you can adjust the sugar-level to your personal taste.

2/ Scoop frosting into a frosting bag and frost cooled cupcakes as you like. Be sure to let the cupcakes cool down. Otherwise, the heat will melt the frosting.

Pour of cup of hot tea and enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving Week!

I heart France

2009-11-17T20:03:00.000-08:00

YSL is introducing its new fragrance, Parisienne, and I'm loving the promotion. Five (very lucky) blogger ladies were tagged by YSL to document their travels to New York City, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles. The goal: Discover the best French things in each city. Seriously? How can I get that job? I've been obsessed with all things French ever since I can remember. Here are some of my favorites posts:

{French food at Comme Ça in LA}

{A picnic of Langres, meant for a pour of champagne on top!}

{A French breakfast, coffee and beignets}

{A how-to on the perfectly unperfect french bun}

{A lazy day in the park}

Check out more here.

The weekend

2009-11-15T18:04:00.000-08:00

This weekend brought us brisk fall weather, and even a little chilly sunshine. Here are some other simple things that made my weekend:

{homemade pumpkin bread}

{a lighthouse visit with friends, followed by a coastal ride}

{then, a cheese plate...}

{...with beers in honeycomb mugs...}

{...on the lawn at the cozy, and very british, pelican inn}

{does it have to be monday? really?}

I always struggle with Monday--do you?--and miss my weekend already. Till the next one, I'll look forward to joyful little somethings to make my week.

(Photos by me)

My latest crafting adventure

2009-11-13T09:12:00.000-08:00

I am so excited, I just learned to knit! I started taking classes recently and am pleasantly surprised at how much fun I'm having. It's so relaxing, with its repetitive, steady motion - almost meditative. And then, suddenly, you've crafted something. So much satisfaction!

I'm new at this gig, but I'm inspired to keep at it and eventually make something warm and cozy, like a chunky cowl, scarf or beret. Here's some inspiration:

{nerves of steel cowl by fringe}

{twist of fate cowl by fringe}

{plum chunky knit cap with button by oops i knit it again}

Salad of the day

2009-11-09T10:29:00.000-08:00

Thomas Keller's Salade de Laitue sounds wonderfully crisp and fresh. I love salads with meaty, crunchy lettuces like bibb, butter or little gem. This is definitely landing on the menu this week!

Salade de Laitue

(Serves four)

Ingredients:

4 heads Bibb lettuce

2 tbsp. minced shallots
2 tbsp. minced chives
¼ c. Italian parsley
¼ c. tarragon leaves
¼ c. chervil leaves
½ c. house vinaigrette
1 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

1. Core the heads of lettuce. Separate leaves but keep each head by itself; discard outer leaves. Head by head, place the leaves in a bowl of cold water to refresh them and remove any dirt, then dry in a salad spinner.

2. Place the leaves from one head in a bowl; sprinkle with a pinch of salt, a few grinds of pepper, 1½ tsp. each shallots and chives; and 1 tbsp. each parsley, tarragon, and chervil.

3. Toss gently with 2 tbsp. vinaigrette and 1 tsp. lemon juice. Repeat with remaining heads.

4. To serve, arrange outer leaves as the base on the plate and rebuild each head of lettuce, ending with the smallest leaves.

House Vinaigrette
(Makes about 2½ cups)

Ingredients:

¼ c. Dijon mustard
½ c. red wine vinegar
1½ c. canola oil

1. In a blender, combine the mustard and vinegar at medium speed for about 15 seconds. With the machine running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 c. canola oil.

2. Transfer to a small bowl and, whisking constantly, slowly stream in the remaining 1 c. oil. Use immediately or refrigerate up to two weeks.

(Photo by Deborah Jones via DailyCandy LA; receipe via DailyCandy)

LA eats, really well.

2009-11-07T23:45:00.000-08:00

I'm a Californian at heart. I love so much of what this beautiful state offers. And, I love it's two major cities equally, Los Angeles and San Francisco. I adore them for very different reasons. Both have so much variety and depth, each in their own way.

There are some days, however, where I really--and I mean really--miss LA. It's cheerfulness, warmth, beaches, gorgeous hikes and canyons...it's teeming with creativity and ideas. The people are generally friendly, the vibe casual and relaxed.

Today, I'm missing the food. A lot of people would suggest hitting up San Francisco if you want a culinary epicenter, and they'd be correct. But don't over look LA to satisfy the urge for truly delicious food! LA has some of the most amazing food you will ever have. I'll say this, LA knows burgers, sushi and delis to start.

There are several volumes worth of posts on LA food alone, but here's what I missing this weekend:

1. My Father's Office

Because heaven is called dry-aged beef on a soft french roll, caramelized onions, bacon compote, a divine melting mixture of Gruyere and Maytag blue cheese, and fresh arugula. (There might be crack in this burger, I don't know, word is still out.) I dream about it. Regularly. And, a "rotating selection of 36 craft beers on tap." And, sweet potato fries, with a heavenly garlic and blue cheese aioli.

2. The Apple Pan

Because sometimes a good ol' fashion burger, diner counter style, is just what the short order cook is grillin'. The hickory burger is the best. Between the perfectly charbroiled beef, the special Apple Pan sauce and classic Tillamook cheddar cheese...mmmm...a smoky comfort burger at its finest. I hear the pie is amazing, too.

3. Katsu-ya

Because it's melt-in-your-mouth, unbelievably fresh and inventive sushi. There's no fancy scene here. Well, they recently expanded and opened up new locations, which are on the trendier side. I prefer the original location in Studio City, just a hop over Laurel Canyon from West Hollywood. Go. Go now. Do not be fooled by the lack luster strip mall in which it resides. Only order off the special menu, and also get some sashimi. Try the crispy tuna, warm spinach salad with sesame-crusted ahi tuna, baked crab hand roll, the tuna salsa thing (they'll know)...just a few to get you started.

You'd think SF would have wonderful sushi but nothing up here is even a respectable runner up. I miss you, Katsu-ya.

4. Canter's Deli

Because a proper Jewish deli is a necessity. It just is. Where else are you going to get mazto ball soup 24 hours a day? Plus, you can always rely on Canter's for the 2 am post bar feasts. I used to live just blocks away in the Fairfax district, near Melrose. Best reubens outside of Manhattan. The attached Kibitz room is a kitschy bar that hosts some great local musicians.

5. Bay Cities Deli

Because for every Jewish deli, you simply must have its Italian counterpart. Not only does this place craft some mad subs, but it's also an impressive Italian and Greek store. They've got it all - olive oil, salts, spices, fresh pasta, coffee, strange things in jars that make Italian and Greek food so yummy. They bake their own fresh loaves of bread daily--partly what makes their sandwiches so incredible--and they have a stand-up cheese selection. I like the turkey and cheese, their special sauce makes it so juicy and mouthwatering (also possibly laced with crack, who knows). Bay Cities is the perfect place to grab some sandwiches before a hike or day at the beach. Take a number, be ready to order when your number's up, and stroll around the store while the deli guys work their magic. Oh, and pick up some cannoli on the way out.

Beware The Poison Apple

2009-11-04T21:52:00.000-08:00

I know this is a few days late for Halloween fare, but I think it still properly belongs in the fall food love category. Anything apple does, really. I literally gasped when I saw these photos! These red and black (yes, black!) candy apples are so gorgeous. Glassy and wicked, yet still inviting enough to crunch into one. The sticks lend an authentic feel.

They're just stunning (and beautifully photographed, I might add). Check out the recipe here.

(Photos by Matt Armendariz)

One of those days (er, weeks)...

2009-11-04T08:47:00.000-08:00

This week has been particularly tough. This is exactly how feel right now, or at least, want to feel! I love it when a photo says everything you feel. I seriously want to run, run, run on a beach, doing cartwheels, building sand castles, drinking a cold beer, hearing waves crash, and be fully untethered from my much-too-stressful work life.

I think I need a vacation.

(roly chamber via Abbey Goes Design Scouting)

The Art of Racing in the Rain

2009-11-01T22:55:00.000-08:00

I just finished this book, The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. I devoured it in a single day, and loved it.

Most likely, you're two steps ahead of me and have already read it, or know of it (in which case, have any recommendations?). Enzo, the intuitive and observant family dog, is the narrator. He's sweet and funny and uplifting, and has a lot to say about his family and human relationships.

It was a simple and joyful read (if not a little teary, too). Personally, not every book I read needs to be profound and/or solve all of humanity's problems--puhleeze! Aside from being an ardent dog-lover, I found it endearing and the perspective refreshing.

Retro heels

2009-10-29T11:29:00.000-07:00

Aside from wanting to move into any one of their beautifully appointed stores, Antropologie always has the best shoes. I'm loving these new retro-inspired heels for fall.

(open wing heels)

(milly peep toes)

(bouquet-of-roses heels)

(stacked smoke heels)

(Photos via Anthropolgie)

Dress, red shoes, belt...check!

2009-10-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore this dress (um, and shoes)! So whimsical and pretty. The belt is a perfect finishing touch.

(Photo by The Sartorialist via A Cup of Jo)

Genius DIY calendar

2009-10-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

In the latest installment of "why didn't I think of that," take a peek at this genius DIY project over at little brown pen. It's a collection of photos displayed as wall calendar, that you resort as the months pass. What a sweet way to celebrate a new hometown, cherish memories of an old one, or document travels abroad.

(Photos by little brown pen)

Shoe perfection

2009-10-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

These shoes are absolutely stunning. I can only imagine how they'd perfectly complement a wispy and flowy gown or cocktail dress. I also love how they're paired with an unsuspecting grey t-shirt dress. I only wish I knew who made them!

(Photos by jak & jil and garance dore, found via Apartment #34)

New Jersey

2009-10-25T21:23:00.000-07:00

Confession. I'm obsessed with New Jersey, and intrigued enough to actually consider setting up shop there. Not the Turnpike, people. The green New Jersey. (Well, also the New Jersey that's close enough to New York so I can get my city fix.)

We contemplate where we'll "end up" often enough -- as if there's only one location! We like SF and LA, home for both of us, but other front-runners include: Brooklyn (Park Slope, love), North Carolina, upsate New York, Austin, and the surrounding DC-area. E says Boston, too, but that's some serious cold.

These pictures make a very compelling case for New Jersey, don't they? We just don't experience fall like this in California and I love every bit of it.

(Photos by Nichole via litte brown pen)

Enchanting

2009-10-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

(homeward bound)

(eternal)

(enchantment)

(dawnman)

How lovely and ethereal are these photographs?

They remind me of the briskness of fall, just edging on winter.

Moody and crisp, but at the same time

so warm - and romantic!

Beautiful.

(Photos by futureancient via The English Muse)

It DID brighten my day

2009-10-21T12:13:00.000-07:00

Just look at this heart warming photo! It's aching with sweetness. I love it when something this simple brightens my day.

(Via Cup of Jo and via Emily)

Project Weekend: Part I

2009-10-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

I'm lining up some fun DIY projects for this weekend. Fall puts me in that indoor home improvement kind of mode. I was so exicted when I saw this one over at Design*Sponge. Britt McMaster from Cumbersome authored the idea of replicating this gorgeous mini chest from Anthropologie. Genius!

It looks relatively simple and I can't wait to get started. I know exactly which nook this pretty little chest will call home in our bedroom.

(Photos via Design*Sponge)

Beauty find: Moroccan Oil

2009-10-09T14:05:00.000-07:00

This stuff is amazing! I have naturally wavy hair (read: prone to major frizz). It's perfect when I want the beachy wavy look, but most often I just want the flexibility and smoothness of straight hair. So, that means blow drying and straightening with a variety of unfriendly looking tools. Enter Moroccan Oil treatment.

I've tried many silcone-based hair products, most of which are fine though nothing to write home about. But this stuff is incredible! It's also silicone-based and contains Aragan oil, which is the key ingredient. It is super light and incredibly moisturizing - perfect for heat-styled hair. I ended up with light, smooth and uber soft straight hair. And it smells fantastic, warm, tropical, a hint of vanilla, I think. It reminds me of that dark coconut suntan oil I've never been able to use with my fair skin.

Le sigh, I want to go somewhere tropical now.

More Wild Things

2009-10-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite authors, Dave Eggers, has a new book, The Wild Things. But get this: it's an adaptation of the movie, which is an adaption of the book we all knew and loved as kids, Where the Wild Things Are. No huge surprise seeing that Eggers co-authored the screenplay.

I can't wait to dive into this one!

P.S. You can even grab the fur covered edition!

Santa Barbara Love

2009-10-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

We spent the past weekend in Santa Barbara

and gazed at a beautiful sunset.

And since the Avocado Festival was held that weekend,

the theme was all about avocado.

But I guess that isn't much different from

any other day in California, with our

delicious year-round Haas Avocados.

Yum!

We made fresh guacamole, grilled salmon tacos with

avocado-tomitillo salsa, and an amazing

guacamole, hearts of palm, dill and grapfruit salad.

Well I did anyway. E is no fan of fish

or grapefruit (tragic), so more for moi!

He had turkey.

Plus, we went to La Super Rica Taqueria.

Oh my gosh, this

place is sooooo good!

You have to go if you're ever in Santa Barbara.

The fresh house-made tortillas are

amazing. I have no idea what they do,

but it's incredible!

I heart Santa Barbara.

Every time I go, it makes me think just a little bit

more about really going for it and attending

photography school. Hmmm.

(Photos by me)

Tea and Whodidily Cupcakes

2009-10-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

This weekend we did the usual cupcake-hunting rounds and found Whodidily Cupcakes in Montecito, California. It's a kooky little cupcake shop that immediately smacks of a Willy Wonka-esque vibe. That, or I guess the "Wonka" cupcake gave it away. Hot pink boas, sparkly chandeliers, frilly skirts hanging from the ceiling, it's like being a girly girl's dress up closet.

But back to the cupcakes. I had their version of the classic Red Velvet, the "Whipple Scrupmptious." It was perfect. Light and flavorful cake and fluffy cream cheese frosting. I was tempted to try some more, especially with names like Waffleicious, Sunday Stroll and Love Spell. I give it 4.5 cupcakes out of 5.

(Photos by me)

Beauty find: Rodin Olio Lusso

2009-10-02T14:35:00.000-07:00

I first heard about this amazing beauty product months ago on daily blog favorite, A Cup of Jo. I've never looked back since. She's right, it's a wee bit on the pricier side of fancy facial products but it IS so worth it. Check out more product detail on Rodin's website.

It smells amazing -- uh-mazing! -- though E would disagree with that statement. (But he's a boy, and sometimes the boys just don't understand the lure and excitement of the perfect beauty find. It's ok, it's just one of those girlie things.)

I think it's the jasmine oil that gets me, I'm sucker for it every time. It truly does make for perfectly dewy, fresh skin. It also contains soothing jojoba oil and arnica. Love!

It's a little hard to find. I usually hit up Fred Segal in Santa Monica when I'm visiting LA. Otherwise, you can find it here online, which I've also done in a pinch. Try it and report back!

Dinner for Breakfast, or Breakfast for Dinner?

2009-10-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

I'm wondering, dinner for breakfast or breakfast for dinner? I think there's fairly strong contingency of breakfast-for-dinner peeps, but I am an unwavering dinner-for-breakfast kind of girl. A bowl of cold cereal or pancakes for dinner just isn't right; it's morning-only fare.

But give me some leftover Indian takeout, last night's lasagna or the classic pizza for breaky (warm, not cold), now that's a fantastic start to my day! I think comfort foods work best -- meatloaf, mashed potatoes, pasta, pizza, leftover Chinese, mac n' cheese.

Can't let go of my morning cuppa jo, however. That stays.

Do you have a preference?

(Photos via Martha Stewart)

Beachy weekend

2009-10-02T09:40:00.000-07:00

This weekend we are taking a mini road trip and heading to Santa Barbara, and cozying up in a cute little beach house. Like truly-on-the-beach beach house. We plan to read books, listen to waves, drink wine, fire up the grill, eat oudoors, maybe even kayak if the water agrees. I'm so excited to get away to one of my most favorite places ever.

(Photo from Gourmet via Abby Goes Design Scouting)

Where The Wild Things Are

2009-10-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

I cannot wait to see this movie!

How sweet and whimsical is this photo?

And, I bet the soundtrack is going to be pretty awesome - look who's behind it.

Omnivore Books

2009-09-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

This quaint little shop around the corner boasts the most amazing cookbook collection you've ever laid your hungry eyes on. Tucked away in Noe Valley, shop owner Celia Sack really, really loves books, on food that is. It is truly a gem.

She has every new cookbook you might imagine but also an impressive collection of antiquarian cookbooks. I mean, who wouldn't envy a person who gets to travel to Europe just to hunt for antique cookbooks?

They also have super fun events, like fried chicken and pie baking contests.

I could spend hours - hours! - here. Maybe they're hiring?

(Photos via Omnivore Books)

These boots are made for me

2009-09-29T22:53:00.000-07:00

No seriously, they are.
Found with the most perfectly styled outfit here,
on one of my biggest blog crushes.

I think this cozy little ensemble was made just for me,
and the balmy weather right now.

Le love...

The weekend

2009-09-29T22:37:00.000-07:00

This weekend brought us another trip to the Farmer's Market for fresh flower love, but this time, we also showed some New York friends around before heading up to Napa. (Ehh hem, confession: we maybe had more chilaquiles. Why are you so good, chilaquiles verdes?)

I have to admit, it's awfully nice living close enough for day trips to the wine country. And not just any wine country, one of the world's finest wine regions! We hit up two of our favorite spots: Sequoia Grove, which has deliciously spicy Syrah (I highly recommend the 2006 Syrah). We also ended our day with a little bubbly at the gorgeous and sprawling estate of Domain Chandon. I love their etoile brut rose (and the blushy pink color) - not too sweet, but just enough.

This weekend also brought...

Walks with more pretty flowers.

Delicious and perfectly creamy Blue Bottle Coffee.

Miles and miles of grapes!

You won't believe it.

Chocolate mousse in an edible chocolate cup.

No really, you can eat the little tea cup!

More treats from the darling Miette Bakery...

I maybe had some for breakfast on Sunday.

Some green space.

(Photos by me)

Coolest laptop ever

2009-09-27T17:32:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I maybe mean to say coolest laptop cover ever. So clean and chic. Love.

(By Byrd and Belle found via A Little Sussy)

Feeling reflective

2009-09-27T11:31:00.000-07:00

Just like this dreamy and ethereal photo, no question San Francisco is a gorgeous place. But it has more than its fair share of foggy days, and I've been feeling just about as foggy lately. It's a funk I need to snap out of...um, soon. I'm just not feeling like myself lately, and I admit it's entirely career-related. Maybe more on that later.

So, it's timely that tomorrow is Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) where we dedicate time to turn inward, taking inventory of how we've lived life honorably (or not), and how we've treated others and ourselves over the past year. It's an opportunity to focus, hit the reset button and implement meaningful change.

This year, I am focusing on personal career choices that are right for me (and really being honest about them), cultivating friendships and highlighting family life. How can I do better? How have I faltered in these areas, and how should I change? Also, what do I want these things to look and feel like? What do I need to dedciate towards these goals? Something to ponder...

Happy New Year!

(Photo via for design's sake)

Lazy Monday...

2009-09-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

This is exactly what I'd rather be doing today. I love this photo. We went on a pretty (and ~~warm~~ scorching hot!) hike yesterday that gave me a little taste, but right about now I need a massive helping! Monday is tough today, especially since it's so beautiful outside, and in San Francisco, such sunny weather is no common occurrence. I'd love to be taking in some fresh air and reading books all day. Le sigh...

Photo by Lisa Warninger via Frolic!

Happy Weekend

2009-09-18T19:04:00.000-07:00

This weekend we're toasting and celebrating a friends birthday and the beginning of a New Year. Exciting stuff! We're also planning some restful sleep, a hike or two (weather permitting) and filling up my camera with pictures. And, I plan to sneak in a cupcake or two. Just because.

I'm really feeling the itch for a trip again. Somewhere, almost anywhere. Our last mini-trip was to the Oregon coast, which was varied and pretty and rural. I'm maybe deaming of a beach or Paris though, maybe. I'm finding that I get antsy without hitting the road once a month or so. I love the unexpected adventures and shared experience. Plus, E's a good travel buddy to have around.

Images, Roman Road Looking South, Paper Lanters and The Joy of Life Paris by Tim Irving via Folksy and found at You Are My Fave

Dear Clinton Street Bakery,

2009-09-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I miss you today.

Your pancakes are perfect. You've always had me at "warm maple caramel" sauce.

I could really use some of your heuvos rancheros right about, say, now. I've never had anything like it, and nothing compares out here. (More of that soft and airy jalapeno sour cream, please.) Most everything else on the menu is perfection, like cheesy grits and biscuits. Yummy.

Maybe E and I will move back and become your very bestest regulars (again). But for now, I'll spread the good word and look forward to our next meeting.

More on you later...

I am so hungry now.

Images via Clinton Street Baking Company

Wish list.

2009-09-14T22:34:00.000-07:00

I've maybe been crushing on this cute gunmetal grey Market Bag from moop. I love the adjustable strap. It's perfect for trips to the Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, where inevitably, I bring home some fresh seasonal flowers:

(If only peonies were available year round. Le sigh.)

...and without fail, end up enjoying the most delicious chilaquiles verdes you can dream up. Ever. In your entire life. Seriously, if you ever find yourself at the San Francisco Ferry Building Farmers Market you really have to try some.

Images via moop and by Rachel via Heart of Light

Falling into season

2009-09-13T22:26:00.000-07:00

I was expecting more Indian summer this weekend, but instead mother nature gave us rain and drizzle and grey skies (though some of them were lovely), even a little thunder and lightening. It kind of made me want to snuggle up into a warm cozy cabin with a fire and good book. Rather than feeling gloomy, I pretended this just a sneak peak to fall, which made me totally excited for fall...foods! Pumpkin, roasted squashes, roasted anything for that matter, spiced wine and cider, spicy hot chocolate and pretty cakes - red velvet cupcakes! I made some yummy pumpkin bread in celebration.

This weekend also brought us...

1. Fresh laundry

2. A stroll with E for some ridiculously delicious and creamy ice cream. I maybe had seconds on Sunday, maybe.

3. ....and a few cozy naps with E.

4. Homey stuff, like hanging some pictures, some chalkboard paint and lots of cooking!

I might be struggling with Monday a little, but am looking forward to lots of good stuff this week. Most of all, I'm looking forward to seeing where this little blog of mine takes me. It's been a long time in the making.

Photo by Allyson Gowdy Thayer via Abbey Goes Design Scouting