Happy Vernal Equinox

I am looking forward to the renewed spirit that spring brings with it.

The blossoming daffodils and crocus have been uplifting after a bitter winter combined with a particularly sad week spent following coverage of the disaster in Japan. It has been hard to stay focussed on anything other than grief- I find myself obsessively thinking about the loss of life and home, and how I can not even imagine what the affected people are feeling. But, as many people have noted, I am inspired by the strength of the victims, and their will to strive forward.

Through these trying times, I find the best remedies include thoughtful hikes, long trips to the library, and continuing my support for Japan relief efforts.

Thinking of Japan, Etsy Blog

Japan Earthquake & Pacific Tsunami Relief Efforts at Burdastyle

Japan Quake Appeal

Comfort

When I eat fried rice, I can envision long ago summers spent feasting on dishes that my grandmother lovingly prepared. Made just the way that she did, it has become my favorite comfort food.

Although I have been comforted in knowing that my family and friends in Japan are safe, I have been deeply saddened by the devastating footage of destruction caused by the earthquake and tsunami.

At this time, all proceeds from any item sold in my etsy shop will go to a humanitarian organization to help relief efforts in Japan. Other links of consideration include:

Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan: How to Help

How to Help Japan: Earthquake Relief Options

Paper Cranes for Japan

Food Intolerance Intolerance

Boy, do I not like food intolerances. Years ago my very wonderful sister realized that she could no longer eat red bell peppers. How rough is that? I personally love red peppers, so I can only imagine that it is particularly frustrating for her. Naturally, I control my urge to make red pepper heavy treats until she is back at her apartment in Brooklyn. And then......I like to make red pepper bruschetta. It involves a little sauteing of onion, pepper, and garlic and then a little olive oil "grilling" of crusty bread. For good measure, it may include a quick grate of parmesan.

I lived most of my life thinking that I could eat whatever I want. That is, until last summer, when I started to have allergic reactions to raw apples. Occasionally I can eat one unscathed, but when I start to feel my throat swell, I am quickly reminded that I should probably avoid those sweet, tempting fruits. Every time, it just leaves me wondering, how do other people cope with being told they can't eat something that they love?

Cycling New Jersey

This cool fall weather has been perfect for biking. It is so enjoyable to travel by bicycle- I love the brisk breeze on my face, and the sound of leaves rustling under my tires.

Shortly into this preschool experience I realized that one child is much more easy to manage than two, and even more so, one is much more easy to pull in my bike trailer. While I take care of most of the effort getting us from place to place, Ori regulates our playlist.

If you are looking for any inspiration to go for a ride, might I suggest you check out just a couple of posts at velocouture? And while I am on the topic of bicycles, wouldn't it kind of be totally amazing to own one of these beauties?

Half way there.

Winter is (in my mind, at least) half way over, and while it has been pretty cold and dreary, here are a few things that have brightened this season.

Like trips to the Met with old friends...
...like fresh cut grape fruit segments for breakfast...
...and like painting with the children. Phia seems to prefer impressionism, while Ori is definitely a minimalist. I certainly feel grateful.

Currently, any proceeds from any item in my etsy shop will be donated to a humanitarian organization to help relief efforts in Haiti. Other links of consideration include: Support Disaster Relief in Haiti, Haiti Earthquake Relief: How You Can Help, Craftivism: Earthquake in Haiti

Peace in the great Northeast

It is easy to get lost in the holiday craziness. Sometimes I need to remind myself that no matter how overwhelmed or stressed I might be, being nice should never be optional. For your thoughtful consideration:

Operation NICE

Conscious Acts of Kindness

Quilting for Peace

The next time I find myself gritting my teeth while merging onto route 1 (near the mall and Target), or trying to navigate through an overcrowded Wegman's, I hope that I don't lose sight of this simple ambition to be a little nicer. Regardless of what you celebrate, this should be a time to appreciate the company of those you love, and remember to treat others with common courtesy.
Phia on her own peace mission; uniting our Yoda and Boba Fett ornaments.

wow.

i have been thinking more and more about our personal impact on the earth as one single family unit. i think that danny and i are pretty conservative, but the amount of food and material goods that aren't utilized always concerns me, and after seeing  the story of stuff i really want to remedy some of our waste-issues.

here is miss phia doing her part by sledding in her old infant bathtub. go phia!