Life Happens: A Birthday Celebration

Earlier this month, I celebrated my 45th birthday (omg).  It's hard to believe that's my age now.  Strangely enough, I feel no different that when I was 25.  The in-between years were sprinkled with the usual insecurities: am I pretty enough, successful enough, will I be a mom and if so, will I be a good one???

At 45, I know I'm a good mom, successful in ways I never imagined and enjoying a new, confident attitude.  I feel ready to take on next adventures, be they personal or professional, even if they mean surrendering to the moment; to chilling like never before.  I've learned that Life can be unpredictable, that we need to live more in the moment and release our own personal demands on Time. 

To properly celebrate what I considered the "big one", Alex planned a dinner party for quite a few people; some from the past, others from the right now.  Together we laughed, shared food, enjoyed good wine and feted the 'me' I cultivated through the years. I so loved seeing our friends come together, naturally mingling with one another with a common link that evening.  I only regret I couldn't make that moment last longer.

Many thanks to my husband, friend, lover and confidant for creating a truly memorable evening for me.

I love you, Alex!

Carla Fernandez At Heath Ceramics

Thanks to a dear friend who works at Heath Ceramics in SF, I'm in the loop about all the cool events her company hosts.  Case in point, this past Saturday’s Intimate Gathering and Talk with Mexican artist Carla Fernandez.  After looking into it I decided that I had to attend, not only to learn more about Carla and her work, but to also support The Edible Schoolyard Project (the beneficiary of the evening's proceeds). After a sampling of tequila cocktails and regional cuisine appetizers, the crowd met at Boiler Room to see the exhibit featuring Carla's and other Mexican artisans' works.  We took in a conversation with Carla, who explained her inspiration and passion for designing clothes. Pulling ideas from the very people of Mexico, she uses bold colors, patterns and an array of materials to create pieces that are uncommonly wearable yet extremely fashionable.  Each piece can be worn 2 or 3 different ways extending their functionality and interest. Presented in a contemporary manner through video, props and photography, the exhibit is a great combination of art and fashion. As you walk through the space, you feel comfortable to engage with the items on display by touching them and trying them on.  The exhibit runs through May 17 and all is available for purchase on site.

It’s a must see!

The artist Carla Fernandez captivating the audience with her sense of humor and elegant presence.

Many thanks to CS for thinking of me so often! 

Earth Day 2015: Anthropologie Style

Last week, I went into Anthropologie in Berkeley and was greeted by a visual team member seated at a long table covered with cut and colored pieces of newspaper.  A closer look revealed that each piece represented a leaf.  She was adding small thin wires to each one, so that they could eventually be attached to one another and become Anthro's 2015 Earth Day window installation.  As with all of Anthropologie's displays, I was impressed and inspired, but this particular one struck me in a very special way.  It depicted a much bigger picture, the deforestation of the rainforest.  This year, in honor of Earth Day, the company is paying tribute to the declining native species of the rainforest by recreating its lushness with discarded newspapers.  Each store will display its own distinct microclimate made completely from recycled paper in the shapes of flowers, foliage, insects and yes, even snakes.  It's a must see, not for the sheer creativity of it all, but for the powerful message of awareness that it brings.  

We must save the rainforest!

All images are compliments of Anthropologie.  

Random Obsessions

Here are a few of my latest musings.  Some were inspired by my favorite color:  green.  Others, by one of my favorite tropical botanicals, portrayed in a book, found in the perfect placement of art, and in a simple DYI party favor.  And with warmer temperatures and fewer layers, this light sesame eggplant dish definitely got my attention!

What are you musing about lately? 

Decorating Decisions: To Run Or Not To Run-Part 2

Back in September of last year, I shared my attempts at finding the right runner for our renovated kitchen.  I’m happy to announce that the perfect one is finally here.  After halting my search for several months, I happened upon it at my [newly] favorite furniture consignment shop.  Its dark border and soft hues coordinate nicely with the existing rug without overpowering it.

Sometimes it's best not to rush our decorating decisions...

Now our feet, big and small, have something soft underneath while we putter in the kitchen.  Take a look and let me know what you think: