A Year's Journey

1 January - Final Reflection

2010-01-11T12:57:00.000-08:00

It is difficult to believe it has been 365 days since my first endeavor – the Polar Bear Plunge. Jumping into Lake Michigan on a crisp and overcast 10 degree morning was not something I was necessarily interested in doing. And it was only January 1st. But this attitude would be the antithesis of my goal this past year: experiencing new things with the hopes of learning and expanding my knowledge base. How could I judge an experience or reasons why people do “silly” things if I myself have not participated? Attitude adjustment.

So one year later, I did the jump again. This time, I was inspired by friends who wanted to do it for their first time. (We started with 10, and yielded four. And I completely understand why - another Noon plunge in 13 degree weather.) Now that it is one year later, do I feel any different? Have I accomplished what I set out to do? The answer is yes and yes.

This journey has brought me much understanding, compassion, stress, gratification, pushed my creativity and helped build upon my courage.

Best of all, I gained some incredible friendships. This is pure reward, as nothing in life lasts but the relationships we have built and the impact we leave behind. I listened to the stories of a felon, a homeless family, to Broadway leads. I met reality show producers, plated with Top Chef winners and collaborated with award-winning musicians. From energy healers to photographers and designers. To servicemen and women to the elderly who have no visitors. I’ve mourned with some, listened to others’ struggles with raising children with special needs. All intertwined was the story of empowerment. Everyone finds ways to get by and overcome.

What have I learned?

It's never too late - for anything...to start something completely new, to say sorry, to evolve into a different form of self, to pursue a small or herculean feat. The only obstacle is you.

Listen. I enjoy conversation because of its engaging and collaborative nature that can span all emotions in one sitting. It’s the building of an idea. Conversation sometimes helps us hear and strengthen our own convictions. Chatter is quite another thing. Those who pontificate for the sake of hearing themselves talk expand not their knowledge, but only their ego. So listen. And we will learn more.

I relearned a lesson: don’t judge -- people or experiences. It not only invites judgment upon oneself, but how arrogant to think one can assume what another is going through. There are so many variables that define a person at a specific moment in time or certain stage in one’s life. It’s not about you, so let them go through it. And if we prejudge a situation, we stunt our own growth.

Don’t give up on convictions or ideas. Others’ approval does not matter. It may be a wrong time or formula for them. Their own 15 minutes may be up tomorrow. No one is more qualified than ourselves if our gut tells us so. Keep on going. Positive begets positive. We never know what is around the corner.

Inspire. This was my greatest joy. I am grateful for emails, phone calls and incredible deep and personal conversations where one was inspired to overcome a fear, to try something new or who saw life in a different way… one entry inspired someone pay for a stranger's dinner; another to leave work early to spend time with his family; to become a producer for a show; to write a book; to try something as crazy as pole dancing; and visit with a homeless man. To help someone realize a goal and succeed is an honor.

Declutter. Life’s short but very wide, so clean life of what bogs us down. This includes people.

Most of all, Enjoy. Mom always said, "This is life. But it's only life." This is to say, take what life throws your way, AND don't take life too seriously. So enjoy every moment of what we set out to do, and what comes our way.

Lastly, Appreciate. We already have all we need. It's in us. Sure, expand our circle, but keep sacred who and what we love, and who and what loves us. These people remind us where we came from and believe in where we are headed. They keep us grounded, humbled to build and give the hope to continue.

Life is continuing education. The experiences – blissful and hurtful, meaningful and useless – are the tests. How we fare on the outset are our grades. The beauty is, we always have a choice to do better. We cannot erase the previous results, but we use that to mold us. And do better.

My friend David reminds me tomorrow is just another day. "January 1st does NOT own the rights for reinvention announcements." This calms me, as many ask, "So what will you do now that 2009 is over?" My answer is I will continue.

The goal will be to continue to learn but through other people...could be an interview, could be a collaborative project and no weekly deadline. Thus, the same path, but evolved... Just like how we are as humans. We may have a core that is set, the road may be defined, but we evolve into who we are to become from different experiences. And still have the power to change. Please join me in my new blog, TheRoadEvolves.blogspot.com. I will write early February, when I return from a surgical mission trip to the Philippines.

Write me, as I would like to write about YOU.

Find your outlet. Pour and build.

Ichigo Ichie.

28 December - Video Blog thru Learning Final Cut Pro, Professional Video Editing Software

2010-01-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

My favorite part of my journalism classes in college was broadcast photojournalism – taking the shots and editing them into a story. In shooting b-roll footage, I could visualize how I would build the story come edit time. Sitting at the edit bays, selecting footage and transitions, writing the intro and out, then filling in the interview bytes…. The finished product, something tangible of a story, was my greatest joy.

I was excited to resurrect the art of building a story visually through a video blog and learning Final Cut Pro, a professional high-end video editing software. The same dreamy ease of putting a story together would come back like riding a bike (which does not come easy for me, btw.) What was I thinking? I ask. Truly, what was I thinking? Learning iMovie on the Mac was doable within in an hour. This…not so much. So completely over my head.

My dear friends, husband and wife Mel and Joel helped me with this goal. I’m sorry...saved me. Mel, my joyful gem of a woman, friend since I was a teenager. Mel is an artist, jeweler and heads an environmental grassroots organization, “Healthy Communities Projects.” She spent the day filming the Hunger Task Force food drive at La Merenda (see July 27 entry) so I would have workable footage. I followed Executive Chef Peter Sandroni for the day. What a patient sweetheart.

Joel creates extraordinary photo montages and wedding documentaries that are incredibly moving. There is no wonder why people in Europe recommend his services; why he leads seminars on software and technique; why Hollywood celebrities have sought him out; and why I sobbed uncontrollably watching a random bridal couple’s video. True talent. And heart. I don’t know where this couple came from, as in love as the first day and as kind and unjaded as children.

I didn’t realize how difficult it is to start with a clean canvas. Mine was too clean. I didn’t even know where to begin. It took me weeks of camping out at their home to even pare the footage down from a 12-hour day into 20 minutes. Then building a story. There was so much to include, not cut. I had to constantly remind myself to stick to the bare bones objective - the schedule of the day, not Peter's plethora of "can't do without" utensils, not how he got into the business, not how Peter met and proposed to his wife.

I’ve always respected Joel, but to work side-by-side and understand how he thinks, his process and the elements he considers, jumping into a project he was not involved in shooting...he is a master. And to think he does Same-Day Films for brides to show at their reception. WHAT?! Watching him quick key and maneuver audio, trim the clips, organize and re-organize footage, using title cards to break up long footage...all in a mere 15 minutes. He showed me little techniques to keep the story moving visually and audibly when shots or bytes are unavailable. Subtle audio and visual cues for the viewer and miniscule details that could ruin the viewing moment. I gladly handed this over to him to work his mojo. In between the 30 other video projects he had to complete.

Here is the summation of the day, but understand there were so many shots on the “edit floor” that could have captured the backstory or details. I wanted them all in...Peter's sense of humor, respect and camaraderie with his staff; his background at the famous "Lettuce Entertain You", "KDK" restaurant groups and Rambutan, a Filipino restaurant; his integrity and how he supports so many local farms, but does not promote this to avoid sounding elitist or self-promoting. I will create another video stream of outtakes to add to this post.

“

Our Craving, Their Hunger” started as a simple task of learning about an executive chef's day at my favorite tapas restaurant. Then Peter suggested I come up with a menu of Filipino signature dishes, since food is a meaningful part of the culture. From there, we added the food drive for Hunger Task Force.

It feels good to push a bit, hit a roadblock, research and figure a way around by learning more. It also felt great for my husband and me to look back five months ago, at an event filled with our friends from all walks of life...under one roof. Very blessed. Very grateful.

For more information on Joel, please visit www.weddingfilms.com.

For more information on Mel, please visit www.healthycommunitiesproject.org.

For amazing global tapas, please see Peter at www.lamerenda125.com.

14 December - Good Cheer & Ice Skating at Millennium Park

2009-12-24T13:20:00.000-08:00

Evening setting in, a bottle of a lovely red varietal, the anticipation, biting fresh cool air that wakes me up when I open the door. Tells me my friend Holly from Madison is back for our annual visit. She and her husband Dan arrive at 9 in the evening greeted by the hors d’oeuvres de l’annee, which this year included gyoza and homemade dipping sauce, hummus and olive tapenade. Late night talks with such cherished friends provide a piece of home that centers me.

The awaited weekend includes a train ride into the Windy City. We pick up our hot toddy and walk up Michigan Avenue with the goal of doing a bit of shopping, but moreso, to soak in the vibe of good cheer and holiday spirit. There is always a stop at the Nordstrom building and Water Tower Place with quite a few pauses along the way.

But first, I of course was running late to even catch the 11:10 train. How did that happen? Was it our Facebooking or Googling random Tubes while still in my comfies at 10:50? Perhaps. I therefore left the house in my sweater, jeans, cabby hat; grabbed the black vest and riding boots. No coat. No scarf. Yes gloves. And sure enough, we pull into the parking lot at 11:10 with the horn sounding its arrival. Ahhh...yes, just in time.

The train ride propelled us towards the holiday spirit. A child was playing Duran Duran and Bon Jovi on his iPhone, not necessarily Christmas carols, but certainly merry. I so wanted to stay in conversation but the curtains of black slowly closed their shades. Too much cocktail and talk the eve before. I awoke to the slowing of the train into Union Station. The reality of what I wore, or lack thereof, bit me as the doors opened. Since this was a dedicated day by the lake, I had to mentally prepare and tell myself to endure, as we were walking out of Union Station. And ... what is that? Mist? Or sleet? The chards of mid-ice flakes pelted gently across my face. No complaints, though. Mind over matter cuz it’s all a state of mind. And since everything is a choice, then in my mind, I was on a beach in Boracay.

We started at the old Marshall Field’s Building to look at the narrative holiday window scenes and extravagant clinquant Christmas decorations. The Salvation Army bellringers all brought their own source of music, from a trumpet player in full uniform at one corner, to two Dutch women with tambourines on the next. From a rapper singing and dancing the next whimsical thought that comes to mind, to a kicking clarinetist who I'm sure could "play so outside that he's inside," as my husband would say. West High High School Choir was singing classical music and carols to passersby; the usual random but expected drum quartet jammed on their upside down garbage cans. Grandmas looking in the ginormous decorative windows with their grandchildren. Loving the vibe of this warm-hearted city. People were in good moods. Osmosis effect.

To change it up this year, dear friend BeeBee suggested we go ice skating at Millennium Park. “Our little salute to Rockefeller Plaza.” Grand idea. What better way to capture that warmth of a holiday scene like in "Elf"? As we approached the Bean, it was a happy site to see strangers gathered with the hope of skating with one another. Onlookers and antsy skaters waited for the Zamboni to finish refreshing the ice. How fun! Until we arrived at the rink and saw the sign “60 Minute Wait for Skate Rental.” Perfect. Just enough time to freeze right before I step onto the foreign ice that plans to conveyor belt under my feet once I make contact. We watched for a while, observing people laughing and taking photos with skating Santa. But I think I decided the sight was enough for me. I was cold. Matter over mind was starting to set in. No blog material. And no matter.

On to Nordstrom's! We forged ahead to our usual stops and found the good cheer warmed me up yet again. We ended the trek with exquisite comfort food. What provides more holiday spirit than a wonderful Mexican fiesta and some tequila cocktails? Feliz Navidad, I say.

The next morning, I could hear Holly outside my room, "So you want to head back down and go ice skating?" Huh. Let me put my eyes in and a cup of coffee in me, then revisit the question. I was thinking the same exact thing. The deflated balloon from our anti-climactic skating expedition was beginning to inflate. Why not? Just a matter of making it happen.

We headed back to the city for another attempt at fun on the ice and a swig of good cheer. Everything flowed with ease - the drive, the parking, the friendly attitudes were still there to welcome us. Grabbed some hot cocoa and some nice chat with strangers to pass the time. Spent some time with the workers who recognized us from yesterday. I will say their system of crowd control and monitoring the number of people allowed in the rental area and restrooms kept it quite enjoyable for everyone. Right before we got on the ice, I panicked. I forgot that I don't skate. Typical me to walk into a situation without much forethought of my possible personal discomfort. But, hey, I'm in a good mood; I always figure it out. Harold, one of the kind employees, skated backwards with me and told me "soft knees. Just relax." And somehow the lessons I took at Wilson Park 25 years ago resurrected.

It felt great to be out in the sun, amidst beginners and seasoned skaters, families, new lovers, grandparents, little kids. We were all out together laughing, going around in circles, looking out for one another. So THIS is what I look forward to each year...the comfort of dear friends who are family and to feel what this holiday season is about – connection, warmth and spreadin' the love to our neighbor, a stranger, family and those dear Streetwise vendors.

For more information on ice skating in Chicago, please visit http://www.millenniumpark.org/.

7 December - Bikram, Ashtanga, Vinyasa Yoga

2009-12-17T12:41:00.000-08:00

Years ago, during an enlightening conversation of our steps through life, my friend Irene spoke of "chakras." Meaning "wheel" in Sanskrit, the chakra system is comprised of seven energy centers, from root to crown. Each correlates to a specific aspect of human nature and together form our energy into the universe. When these are not open, the effects manifest in our daily and spiritual life, how we act as human beings and to one another. I explored this further through a Reiki session with Patricia Heenan (see July 13 entry). As well, I explored into yoga. My intermittent trials of yoga in the past resulted in nausea from contorting my body upside down on one cup of coffee in my bloodstream. Or I found the instructor spoke so much that I could not concentrate on the movement. Or self-deprecating giggling. I finally found some classes that I was able to move through comfortably and enjoyed the challenge of the multiple levels.

I have always wanted to try Bikram yoga, which is practiced in a humid 105-degree heated room. Dear friend Jemme joined me, as she too was always curious to try. The 26-posture series and two breathing exercises are practiced to push our bodies to its furthest extent; the heat helps loosen the muscles. We were drenched in sweat within the first 15 minutes...detoxifying. Our instructor Chris talked quickly, helping us through each move. My first impression was I thought I was at an auction buying steer. But what I found is the instruction is given in this manner to provide mental cues while we focus on ourselves and each movement, reminding us to push certain muscles and stances further. It did not matter that Jemme and I were neophytes nor anyone's varying degree or level. It was easy to quickly catch on with the beginning breathing exercise to moving into the side stretches of half-moon pose and other poses (triangle, tree, cobra, locust, tortoise, rabbit, etc.) that work on specific parts of the body. This includes hamstrings and back, while also focusing on elongating, balance, strength, flexibility and circulation. It also helped to follow another Yogi in front of me, who I learned afterwards was my dear friend Christine from 20 years ago.

Prior to this class, I have never been able to touch my toes while locking my knees. The originator, Yogiraj Bikram Choudhury, says his copyrighted series is a torture chamber - antithetical to the relaxing meditational yoga thought of here in the States. Bikram thanks Nixon for inviting him to live and teach in the US back in 1972, which has lent to the growth of 1200+ franchised studios worldwide. Proprietor Bron Gacki of Bikram Yoga Milwaukee says the rules to opening a certified school is stringent. The owner must be a certified instructor and cannot teach other practices of yoga in the same studio. Bron himself comes from a line of Bikram Yogis, as his brother, sister and parents all teach as well.

An instructor who has opened me to a new perspective on yoga is Sarah Will. Sarah is an instructor of Ashtanga, Vinyasa and Yin in the Chicago area. Her instruction allows students of any level to feel comfortable as she reaffirms "there is no ego in this class." In the dark studio, with a soft and encouraging voice, she reminds us to focus on our own level, then offers extra challenges. "The difference between Ashtanga and Vinyasa Flow Yoga is Ashtanga (the 8-limbed path of yoga) is a set series of progressive postures. Each series is taught in the exact same order every time, and the practice in itself becomes a moving meditation. Vinyasa yoga is a flowing series of postures -- there is no set series. Both formats synchronize breath (ujayyi) and movement, and both technically are progressive. However, Vinyasa can be practiced at any speed and at any level; Ashtanga moves very quickly.... Yin yoga works to stretch the connective tissues; the other formats stretch and tone muscle."

After suffering several injuries, Sarah decided to turn to yoga in healing her body nine years ago. She had forewent recommended surgeries and physical therapy. Her decision deemed successful within only a few months, thus beginning her teaching. Sarah draws from her experience in dance, instruction under many different teachers as far as New Zealand, attending training programs and workshops. "I try to emphasize that we are all built differently, have different ranges of motion and have been practicing for different periods of time. We may not even be using the same muscle groups to get into the same posture as the person next to us! I have seen, and experienced, overzealous teachers adjust students into the "appropriate alignment" of a posture, and the student ends up injuring, or re-injuring himself. That is not what yoga is about."

Practicing these forms of yoga have also changed her character. "As far as the mental changes (which in my case I believe were a side effect, as I was very focused on the physical), I have become a much calmer and patient person." In her spare time, Sarah operates a dog rescue and serves on the board of directors for Breakbone Dance Company. I always wondered what a yoga instructor does to find balance. Namaste.

For more information on Bron at Bikram Yoga in Milwaukee, please visit http://www.bikramyoga-milwaukee.com/.

For more information on Bikram, please visit http://www.bikramyoga.com/.

For more information on Sarah, her classes at The Yoga Boutique and X-Sports Fitness, please email her at gothyogi@hotmail.com.

30 November - Write an Original Song. En francais

2009-12-08T00:08:00.000-08:00

For as much as I have been surrounded by music since I was a child, I have never had the courage to write a song. I would try my hand at poetry, but would become a bit uptight in letting my ideas flow when I knew the goal was to set words to a melody. I alone prevented any seed that may have had the chance to grow, to even be planted.

A few weeks ago, the sun was out, transforming my spirit and attitude. It served as my morning cup of joe. As I was driving, I was visually aware of gorgeous candids around me that should have been captured on film. And I heard a melody in my head that accompanied what I saw.

Fortunately with iPhone's "Voice Memo" application, I held onto that melody and started to hear more. Inspired by a period film featuring Edward Norton which I had recently seen, I wrote lyrics to match a somber tone. I could hear it in 3/4 time with a beautiful flamenco guitar accompaniment, a la Sting's "La Belle Dame Sans Regret." This is one of my husband's and my favorite songs. The last element that would complete my vision was if it were sung in French.

I visited my friend Patrick, who moved here from Nice, to help me translate the lyrics. I have a Minor Degree in French and had the fortune to resurrect and practice in Paris a few years ago. But I quickly forgot and the vernacular became quite rusty. Patrick spoke the words first, then I followed. (Apologies in advance for the gum.)

I then contacted an old friend, incredible flamenco guitarist Peter Baime. Peter studied in Spain with legendary gypsy guitarists Diego del Gastor and his nephew Paco del Gastor. Peter won an Emmy Award for one of his original documentary scores for PBS. He has toured all over the U.S., Puerto Rico, Europe, Canada and Mexico, and currently is a faculty member at two universities as well as the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music. He continues to work on special projects. It was my fortune and honor to collaborate with him on this project.

To document this collaboration, friend Shanel referred me to Amelia Coffaro. When I visited her site, viewed her candids and listened to her philosophy on capturing artists in their element, I knew I wanted her involved as well.

Lastly, as always, I phoned my trusted friend Jim Reith to engineer and produce. Peter suggested we record simultaneously and not on separate tracks to complement the nuances in the moment. This means we record the song in full each time and choose from the different takes. Anytime we made a mistake, we had to start over. We did change the ending from what I initially intended. Hesitations are noted in my delivery, but I will keep these imperfections in the recording as it holds authenticity of the moment.

What started as a relatively simple but fearful task of writing an original song, grew into a wonderful collaboration. In rehearsing with Peter, he added such interesting melodic changes just by suggesting I sing one half-step higher or lower in certain areas. His additional intricacies evoked emotion as I sang. And in working with Amelia, I gained a new friend. She added quite a personal element to the process. I typically only use one static photo, but in looking through what she captured, it behooved us all to use as many as we could. In this process, I also had to learn Mac's iMovie software. An unexpected piece in the puzzle, but a necessary and rewarding effort.

The progression of the project felt very natural. It always helps to have trusted talent as partners. Thank you to all involved.

For more information on Peter, please visit http://www.wcmusic.org/.

For more information on Amelia, please visit http://www.ameliacoffaro.com/.

For more information on Jim, please visit http://www.beathousemusic.com/.

23 November - Back to the Classics

2009-12-04T09:30:00.000-08:00

Over the Thanksgiving holiday, I noticed my brother-in-law Bill had dropped Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead by the front door. We had been emailing each other over the past few months about his leisure reading as of late, not pertaining to newspapers nor trade publications on the auto industry. "This summer I took a departure from my typical business and leadership book binge and have gone back to the classics. I have read Hemmingway, Salinger, London, Huxley, Fitzgerald, and am currently mowing through Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina. Even returning to some old things can help you grow."

So very true. Bill is an incredibly intelligent and philanthropic person. To say he is a gem and that we are lucky to have him in our family is an understatement. The first time Bill really made an impression was the morning of my father's passing. We traveled as a family to take care of the funeral obligations. We were still in shock and were trying to order floral arrangements. For some reason, I recall confusion and frustration escalating in dealing with the clerk. Bill stepped in and took control. He was the only one among us who could. In seeing his command and nipping through nonsense at a very difficult time, I could tell he would be a good partner for my sister - a rock to find comfort in and build a foundation.

He heads the manufacturing division for a major auto manufacturer. He is well-traveled and knows metropolises like the back of his hand. In fact, it was crazy to see him in Tokyo several years ago, of all weekends and of all people. He was our guide. And behind the graduate degrees, family man and success, I was surprised to have learned of his quiet charity. When we would exchange names at Christmas, he would ask his Secret Santa to make a donation in his name. When we visited their home years ago, he was busy with a Junior Achievement group that he mentored through curriculum and business projects. He also built homes for Habitat for Humanity and served at the local church. These are things family members are probably still unaware of to this day. True humility looks for no applause. These little things I would hear about our quick-witted brother-in-law held him more dear to our family.

In our most recent corresponding, he inspired me to follow his lead. To read a classic. In going to the library, I was a bit sheepish to ask who some classic authors indeed were. But to my surprise, the two ladies as well had to consult files and lists to offer suggestions. The only one available was Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights. I was excited to begin. So much so, that I became mesmerized with even the Introduction by some Diane Johnson, the Biographical Note from Emily's sister Charlotte, then the Editor's Preface -- all parts I normally skip. I am not a very patient reader. The tale must grip me enough in the first chapter to hold me through the rest. So I was amused that I learned more about the author than I anticipated.

Emily was one of six children who moved to a village in Haworth, England in 1820. Her father was a reverend and their new parish home, Haworth Parsonage still stands to this day. The hills and moors of the land behind them is the backdrop of Wuthering Heights, a fictional gloomy estate. Emily's mother and two older sisters passed on due to illnesses. The remaining four children, Emily, Branwell, Charlotte and Anne all lived only until their early 30s, dying from alcoholism, tuberculosis and complications during pregnancy.

I did not realize Emily's sisters Charlotte and Anne were authors as well, penning Jayne Eyre and Agnes Grey under the names of Ellis and Acton Bell. Emily was the third brother, Currer. They were "brothers" for fear of judgment and stripped credibility simply because they were female. Unfortunately, Emily died a year after Wuthering Heights was published and was met with poor reviews.

In reading the book, I found myself confused at first knowing the author was a woman, penning under a male alias but with feminine insights. Was it believable at that time? Critics said no. Some of the thoughts were also controversial and a bit edgy. I kept a flowchart to keep the characters, respective ancestries and roles in order. The style of writing compelled and engaged the reader, though staying engaged was necessary in order to understand everything in context. I also noticed interesting details like the overuse of colons within one sentence. As a lover of grammar, I did not know this was "legal." I enjoyed Bronte's way of capturing little nuances in the relationship dynamics as well. The storyline itself was a bit challenging to follow. The love that developed between the orphan Heathcliff and Catherine, the daughter of the family who raised him, was rich and complicated. Catherine married another, Edgar Linton, for advancement in society, though she loved Heathcliff. When she passed away, Heathcliff went mad. His growing vindictiveness for all who wronged him juxtaposed with his love for Catherine was...complicated, e.g. locking up Catherine's daughter to force her to marry his son in order to acquire the wealth of his arch enemy, Catherine's father. Oy.

It was interesting to imagine what life might have been like at that time -- everyday speak was proper; the writings were complicated, Shakespearian and poetic - all based on simple living and a finite amount of knowledge for that timeframe. Limited knowledge in what existed - travel, other cultures, medicine and technology that would have prolonged lives. But back then, death was just an accepted turn of events. Women's subservience in treatment, to the point of having to alias under a male counterpart in order to receive due judgment. The opposite of these are all privileges and freedoms we enjoy now. I contemplated on what were epic accomplishments for that time period versus what we take for granted. Truly times have changed; I wonder if we appreciate how far we have come. I, for one, need to be reminded of that.

Indeed, Bill, going back to old things can help us grow. Thank you.

16 November - Improv at Second City

2009-11-24T19:57:00.000-08:00

My friend Jean speaks in a thousand different accents, impersonations and affectations. My favorite may very well be the articulate and hostile Puerto Rican. Jean is not shy to have a full conversation with me -- with accent and attitude -- in the middle of a salon, grocery store, car....
The first time I met her was working on friend Shanel Regier's fashion show years ago. I could tell she had an impeccable work ethic, not above any menial task, nor below any strategizing. She seemed serious. And humble. Dead ringer for Rachel Weisz, if you ask me. She articulates well her ideas but is not a "theorist." She rolls up her sleeves, gets down to the nitty gritty and accomplishes what she sets out to do. She does not talk about the talk about the talk, like most; she is a do-er. And it's rarely about her.

A straight shooter, Jean keeps her balance by singing her heart out at karaoke, and takes inventory by cleansing and spending a few days in solitude. An interior designer by day; an unabashed character and smart wit otherwise. She shared with me that acting was one of the possible directions on her list when choosing what to pursue for her college career. I thought Jean might be the perfect contender to join me at Second City's Improv class.

Her spontaneity in saying 'yes' took us to my old stomping grounds - Old Town, Chicago. When I worked here many moons ago, I remember watching Kamehachi move in across the street. It took the place of the former Blue Room, where my would-be husband and I would play in a trio upstairs. I would order my edamame and unagi roll, then eat my lunch at the school I volunteered at around the corner during my lunch hour. Driving around North and Wells resurrected forgotten and priceless memories...an unexpected gift that evening.

When my husband and buddy Chris suggested we take this drop-in class, I of course thought with an amenable ease, "Improv? Hysterical. Why not?" But driving down and now a few blocks away, Jean and I started to get anxious. We parked across the street at Treasure Island and walked to Second City's Training Center in Piper's Alley. Headed to class on the 4th floor, we met up with 15 other students from all different levels in acting. Our teacher Joe had us stand in a circle for our first warmup. It was called "Shootout." We learned everyone's names. As one name was called, that person ducked. The two people on either side had to be the first to shoot the other person out of the circle. Then the gap was closed.

We did three-line exercises between two people which focused on the starts of scenes and dialogue guidelines. And everyone had to do these exercises. We formed two lines, performed our scene, then switch to the opposite line so we had turns starting and reacting to the dialogues. The rules were to avoid questions and avoid focusing on the actual activity. One person started dialogue with any topic, the second person answered, the first finished the idea, the second person closed the scene with a nonverbal reaction.

Joe then added components to develop comfort level, reacting to environment, using emotion and reacting to your partner in a follow-up exercise called "Exploring the Silence." We continued with the formula of three-line exercises but were given an environment...bank, Starbucks, zoo, etc. We acted in silence for 30 seconds, being aware of our partner's actions and expressions. We found that we fed off each other to help shape the scene before any dialogue was inserted. We then added depth to the spoken story line - all in three-lines.

Another exercise was called "What Are You Doing?" This was quick-paced and gave us practice in being physical and speaking without worrying if we made sense. First person would start with an activity -- taking a shower, sweeping, roller skating, etc. The second person would ask at any time, "What Are You Doing?" First person would call out any activity OTHER than what s/he is doing, and the partner had to act it out. The next component added was that the activity had to start with the letters of the people next in line. For example, behind me were Terry and Mike, so my partner and I would call out tasks such as, "Training Monks!" These mini skits were hilarious, as one who had S and A yelled, "Selling Armpits!" leaving his partner perplexed but comedically carrying out the scene. Another added component was the receiver had to deliver a line of dialogue to accompany the random task.

In debriefing with this room of strangers who quickly became friends, we learned that silence is golden. If we sat and listened, watched, fed off one another's energy, it can affect our reactions, thought and expression. We learned to follow our instincts, as well as step out of our comfort zone. We found people to be funny without being funny, or having a sense of humor when they are naturally serious.

Jean and I did our own debriefing afterwards, over a nice late meal at Flo. In the aftermath, Jean shared, "As we were in one of the circle formations, I felt this pit in my stomach. For me the feeling was not of nausea but of anxious excitement – the urge to be involved and to perform. I began to shift my weight from one leg to the next until I was in an all out sway. I remember catching myself doing this and thought, 'I must look like an idiot.' Then I looked around the circle and about 10 others were making similar moves. This is a feeling that I have not sensed since I was performing on stage in High School and it was great to have that feeling back again. I forgot how much I love that adrenaline rush. I think the love of performance comes from within certain people and is a difficult thing to truly teach."

Couldn't have asked for a better partner to experience this with. Thanks, Jean.

Joe teaches at Second City and Columbia College. He is currently working on a project - writing a sketch every day for one year. This is based on his belief that there is no such thing as writer's block or not enough time to write. All 365 sketches will be produced June 3 thru June 10 at Strawdog Theater, Chicago. For more information, please visit, http://www.biteandsmile.blogspot.com/.

For more information on the class, please visit http://www.secondcity.com/.

9 November - Segway into Individuality

2009-11-17T10:10:00.001-08:00

"Arrested Development" is one of our all time favorite shows. My husband lovingly gave me the full series a few years ago for my Christmas present...then he didn't see me for two days. I watched all episodes back to back - same pjs, same blanket, same couch. One of the most hilarious characters on the tele - across the board - is Gob. I belly laugh until I cackle and cry...his chicken dance while singing "ka ka ka ka kaw"; his whistling "s"'s from a broken tooth; his constant yearning for his father's approval; wearing a fake eyebrow on his cheek from hugging a father figure who has alopecia and... his mode of transportation? A Segway.

I always wondered how difficult it was to ride those motorized adult scooters. I also thought it was quite the humorous site to see Chicago police ride them around the city. My husband and I laughed in brainstorming a blog entry comparing a Harley, Vespa, then ultimately, the Segway. But a tad overambitious within a week.

I researched where I could even find one to try and was thrilled to find Chicago offered tours. 3-hour commitment? Why not? Time to make time. Since I love learning the origins of a city and its anthropology, what better way to learn, meet some kind folk and tool around? I tried recruiting my hilarious ad guru raconteur Kyle, but he kindly declined with a sardonic chuckle, "have fun with half of Gary, Indiana."

I found four different companies, and went with my gut - Chicago Segway Tour. The owner Demetris was quite responsive and seemed to run a tight ship. His instructors and guides, Joe, Brian and Scott were fun, respectful, informative and efficient. We met across Navy Pier at the Lake Point Tower building. There were about 12 of us and were taught the mechanics of the machine, equipped with computer and all.

I stepped up and started to giggle with my protective helmet on. Joe explained the Segway is controlled by the pressure or weight on your toes and heels. The handlebars only control turning left and right, not forward or backward. If you want to slow or stop, you simply lean back then center your body. And if you continue to lean back, you will go backwards. It seems extremely rudimentary but necessary to process, as there are no brakes and yet no standing still. If we find we are at the maximum speed of 12 mph, the computer will automatically tip the Segway back, causing it to stop. After 20 minutes of lessons and getting comfortable in the warehouse, we were ready to head out into the city - real streets, construction, bikes and people.

Within the two hours, we stopped at different points such as DuSable Harbor, the Art Institute of Chicago, Museum Campus (Shedd Aquarium, Soldier Field, Adler Planetarium and Field Museum), Buckingham Fountain, Queen's Landing, Millenium Park.... We learned interesting tidbits along the way. It inspired me to learn more about these places, so I researched them when I returned from my excursion.

In no particular order, morsels of trivia included... Lake Point Tower, whose previous residents included Tom Cruise, Halle Berry and NOT Oprah, is the only building east of Lake Shore Drive and is erected on stilts. Chicago has the highest population of Poles outside of Poland. The horrific Chicago Fire of 1871 ruined 2,000 acres of land in only two days, killing 300 people and leaving 1/3 of the population homeless. After the Fire, many of the debris and ash were pushed towards the lake, changing the shoreline from Michigan Avenue to east of the Buckingham Fountain to Queen's Landing. It was interesting to note that under all the land that we toured that day was based on debris from the historic and epic fire. Queen's Landing was named after Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip's visit to Chicago's International Trade Fair in 1959. It celebrated the city as an international seaport and was the first time British royalty came to Chicago. Buckingham Fountain was gifted to Chicago by Kate Buckingham. She dedicated it to her late brother, Clarence. It is modeled after the gorgeous Latona Basin at King Louis XIV's Palace of Versailles. The water represents Lake Michigan and the four sea horses represent the four states touching Lake Michigan. Lastly, an interesting art installation, The Agora, resonated with me a bit. It was a cluster of 9-foot tall sarcophagus-like iron sculptures. The agora in ancient Athens, was a gathering place or marketplace where the artist contends spawned art, philosophy and theater. These sculptures are headless and armless bodies facing different directions. The artist says, "Every crowd is like a headless organism."

Based on the artist's childhood and history, I believe this particular installation had underlying tones with war in mind. She witnessed tragic events as a child and refers to standing alone and facing the world within these headless towering sculptures.

But I process her statement: every crowd is like a headless organism. In a country where freedom of speech, expression and thought is an emphatic part of our culture, do we act like a headless organism when acting as one? Mindless? Is that a good or bad thing? I guess it depends on what the "act" might be. I sure hope that these years of supposed progress in creating, in technology, in stepping outside our own convictions to seek an open mind is not forgotten if our natural, subconscious inclination is to allow an external vacuum to navigate what we believe. That the introduction and evolution of what is supposed "truth" in objectivity, whether it be journalism or non-fiction anthology, has become null and caves to social dynamic waves that come and go with ebb and flow. Then there are people who scream their individuality, demanding attention for being unique. They try so hard to stand apart and guard their extraordinary mark in the world...just...like...the next....person. Perhaps not so unique.

Huh. Interesting installation to say the least. Little did I know I would have some philosophical inner monologue regarding the rhythm of our society and its social dynamics from riding on a Segway. But as art is and as art does, it evokes thought and is open to any individual's interpretation. Mine was simply that these randomly positioned headless and armless bodies represent the global society. The faces, shells and words may not necessarily matter. Body position, direction, intention and action is what drives the truth within in individual and a group. And we may try to maintain our individuality, but also look to each other for inspiration, which then creates the next idea. To me, this cluster of bodies includes many different souls that think on their own but co-exist, hopefully coming together when needed.

Altruistic, I know, but everything, including perspective, is a choice...as I ride away in a cluster of Segways headed in the same direction.

For more information, please visit http://www.chicagosegwaytour.com/.

26 October - Ummm...Did You Say 'Poll' or 'Pole' Dancing?

2009-11-04T12:46:00.000-08:00

I have known my dear friend Mindy since the first grade. She was the kickball champ. The athlete. The captain of the cheerleading squad. Contrary to popular belief, possibly the most painfully shy person of the school. As a woman, she had been through several trials of anguish as well as being a rock for those around her over the past 15 years. And through her incredible care for her husband, parents and children, maintaining their insane schedules, her community service and a few major physical problems, there has never been a complaint. Quite the contrary -- she typically recounts each new "story" with a laugh. Her sense of humor and adventurous spirit coupled with her ability to lend a compassionate ear in the middle of a pub... these are the traits that attract many. Her humility and incredible work ethic not only commit her to seeing things through, but she picks up the pieces for a stranger and helps him rebuild. She befriended a woman living in a hurtful relationship and with little means. Mindy mentioned in passing that she dropped off bags of groceries on her doorstep anonymously. Till this day, none of our friends even knew. Proof in wanting nothing in return. On the outside, one might see her life as intact and one to be aspired. And it is. But only because it is well-deserved.

I wanted to see Mindy do something for herself. Part of this year's journey is to inspire or help others to try something they might not try on their own. When I asked Mindy to list a few things, she came back with one that caught me offguard. Knowing her hilarious and intrepid nature, I processed the suggestion and sputtered, "'Poll' dancing? or 'pole' dancing?" Oy. The first thought that came to mind: Taboo. Kinda made me reach for the Purell and want to take a shower. Second thought: I'll blog about HER.

I realized it had been nine months since I asked her that question. It was time to pull the trigger. As I thought about it, I wondered what made me shy or embarrassed to try? Am I abandoning my own philosophy of experiential living? Why should I judge without having any knowledge base? I asked what inspired Mindy to think of this of all things. She simply said she remembered seeing a woman in excellent shape and asked what she did as a workout. Good thing our triathlete friend Yvette and her sister were game too. Crazy Yvette, who takes us all back to our college days, looked at me and said one word: GiggleFest.

In researching this potential bonding experience, my friend Lisa recommended Sheila Kelly's "S Factor" in Chicago. Looking at the site, it actually seemed...professional. The attire was typical yoga or workout clothes. We arrived at the studio and found the sitting room full of students. It was relatively quiet as ladies filled out paperwork and kept to themselves. None of us knew what to expect.

Our instructor, this tiny beautiful woman whose sweet voice and respectful demeanor, made us laugh and feel comfortable straightaway. Monique led us into a room with 12 pilates mats laid in a circle, low red lights and no mirrors. "This is a non-judgmental facility, ladies." She explained that we as women tend to critique and break ourselves down. There would be none of that here, thus, no mirrors. The purpose of this workout regimen is to empower. It was feminine. The "S", was not for Sexy or Stripper. It replicates the S curvature of the female form. These movements are circular and fluid versus the linear movements of regular cardio workouts... atypical to the curvaceous form.

Monique continued to explain how the founder, actress Sheila Kelly created the curriculum from her research on a role as a stripper. Because there was no formal training, she had to learn hands on. Noticing the cut physique of her "research subjects", she too began to see her body transform. After having children, Sheila wanted to get back into exercise, bought a pole and started dancing for herself for an hour each day. Friends began inquiring of her regimen, thus began her teaching.

As class began, we spent a good amount of time introducing ourselves and understanding what the class was about...its origin, everyone's names, what brought us here, feeling comfortable with one another. The warmup was about stretching and letting go, getting lost in ourselves. The slow movements and eyes closed were not sexual, but sensual...dare I say spiritual, and almost emotional. The first half of class is dedicated to building up the core and upper body strength. We learned movements like the "flirt", the "fiddler", the "cow" and "cat", and the "s-walk" of slowly dragging our toe and crossing the mid-line. We then learned our first pole trick, the "firefly", where we grabbed the pole, hooked one foot around, fell and let the other foot follow, keeping the knees open while we spun around the pole. It was more difficult than it looked. It was playful. And we laughed at ourselves like little girls and cheered the next lady on.

Lastly, our instructor danced for us. Wow. It really WAS dance. She incorporated some of the things we learned. The movements were slow and deliberate. She climbed up the pole with grace, ease and such fluidity, almost like a cat. Her movements were fluid as she spiraled downward like a ballerina in flight. It was lovely. At the close of class, we talked of what to expect in the following levels. Everything works at the individual's pace, where the learning curve is like a merry-go-round. We continue to work on what we learned while adding on and building our strength to the next level.

Monique shared with us "none of us [instructors] are strippers. I am a speech pathologist and work with children. I have my hair pulled back and glasses on. And this is my only workout regimen." It was important to note this. I realized I made some inappropriate assumptions - these ladies were professionals, just like the rest of us. These were accountants, moms, saleswomen, medically trained women, even an aerobic instructor from another studio. She added, "But this [class] is what I do for me." Monique expounded, "This is a journey. This really is a journey of transformation. I get to help these women evolve and see their own bodies transform."

Aside from walking away (and craving Carnevor's BLT wedge salad), we talked about our impressions of the class. If we take away our own discomfort and judgments, just like anything, we begin to see things in a new light. I walked away thinking this was an art, an exercise regimen that brought about femininity with the power to hold our own body strength.

Juxtapose that regimen to my upcoming class: boot camp. Perhaps when this 8-week session is over, I may just treat myself to a little me time and take another form of body transformation at the S Factor.

For more information, please visit http://www.sfactor.com/.

19 October - Photography: Behind the Camera & Behind DaLa Photography

2009-10-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, my husband bought me a digital Nikon D40 for Christmas to resurrect my love for photography. I refrained from using it for six months -- pure intimidation. Exploration on something that has too many bells and whistles has to happen on my time. And I still shoot in the "auto" setting. I have taken photography classes in the past, but they seemed to focus more on developing in the dark room. I wanted to learn more about the upfront process -- the foundation in taking a great photo.

As I perused my Facebook news feed, I caught a glance of a phenomenal photo from friend David Larson's album. I knew David from working on fashion shows together, as well as in his previous life as a proprietor in the restaurant business. Now photography? He certainly showed natural ability for only shooting intensely for six months. How did he transcend from neophyte to developing his level of caliber in a short amount of time?

I asked him if I could observe a client photo shoot, then try to direct and style my own shoot -- operative word being "try". I walked in to his Fifth Ward studio. He and his model fiancee, Jemme, were all ready to go. Prompt and efficient. Lights, camera settings and background were set. Pretty impressive. I began to ask elementary questions about the equipment...the soft box and its diffused lighting, the ring light which gives the model a surreal healthy glow, the color temperature of the camera, etc. We looked at software programs like "Capture One" for post effects, before Photoshop. David was careful to underscore he is no expert, but again, I was drawn to his style, not his tenure in the industry. I commend him for his humility and zeal for pursuing his passion at this stage in his career.

After college, he took the normal route in the corporate world of sales for 10 years, then turned toward the entrepreneurial path in owning restaurants and bars. As a successful proprietor of Sauce, Terrace Bar and Camille's, he then opened a finance company...all the while in between, purchasing cameras, equipment and lights. "Ever since I was in high school, I wanted to be a fashion photographer in New York, but it was just a pipedream. I didn’t know what it required and there were too many barriers of entry without digital technology...."

But when he and Jemme started dating, his pipedream transformed to reality. Just as he encouraged Jemme's career in modeling years ago, she encouraged his shift into photography. "I've had the opportunity to observe the best photographers in the world, picking up their styles and techniques. This particular shoot today is for Henry Hall Jeans, a new denim company in Finland." I asked how he prepared for shoots. "It depends. This one is very specific, mainly product shots. But for lifestyle or editorial shoots, I make sure I understand what the clients want. Then I make sure the clients understand and commit to what they want. Sometimes it's a collaboration -- what are their goals? What are they looking for? Then I select wardrobe and the type of lighting. Lighting is key. You could have the same exact pose and model, but there's a fine line that could make the shot look silly or classy just because of the lighting."

David's entrepreneurial spirit lends to his appreciation for hard work and dedication behind startup companies; his goal is to help them succeed. One of those clients is local underwear company, Pooghe. "Pooghe has a bright future. It's fun to shoot for a product you believe in."

He accredits his acceleration in learning to having access to a stellar model in Jemme, but also to photographer and now business partner, Dan Bishop. He considers Dan his mentor in every sense of the word. "It’s funny how I went about pursuing photography. I bought the studio first, then a nice camera. Dan laughed at me because I already had all this equipment. He knew I wanted to be successful but had to lay out the pieces. If I had any questions, he wouldn't just tell me how to fix it, he would ask 'what don't you like about this photo?' and help me figure it out so I would learn. He is not only a jack-of-all-trades, but a king-of-all-trades. He is constantly learning and reading owner’s manuals and puts pressure on himself to be on top of the learning curve. Dan is a student of it all."

As we continued to chat, David wrapped up the shoot and I was ready to have a go. I had specific ideas in mind. My vision was playing more with the contrast, black and white, and seeing other sides of Jemme emotionally. He and Jemme were so supportive and patient in understanding my ideas, going through wardrobe I brought and showing me the difference in lighting positions. This process took time. I dressed her up, put her in position, looked through the lens and snapped the photo. I have to say, I am quite pleased with how these turned out.

As I looked through the lens to capture the shot though, I wondered what was behind the woman on the other side of the camera. Jemme has a calm and quiet disposition about her. I was surprised to learn that this once-upon-a-time manager of a tanning salon also happens to have an amazing singing voice. Laughing, she reminisced, "When I was a kid, we lived in an apartment complex. At night, I would sing a Mariah Carey song out the window at the top of my lungs with all my emotional might."

As I continued to ask her questions, she was extremely professional, holding poses, understanding the inner narrative in my mind of what I wanted to see through the lens. I asked her what goes through her mind during shoots. "I have grown more coordinated. I think about 'don't pop your butt out, suck your tummy in, don't curl your toes, and make sure your face looks hot'.... I always picture myself in a different place... And I think I can pretty quickly switch from one emotion to the next. I always felt comfortable doing that. People tell me I'm very animated."

I could easily understand what David meant now in the ease of working with Jemme. She is comfortable, confident, patient and not at all a prima donna. When asked of her most difficult shoot, she recalled working with Renee Jacobs. "I was out in the middle of the desert, 30 feet in the air, standing on top of teeny areas of jagged rock. There was nothing between me and the ground. Renee was so nice about it and said, 'do whatever you want.'"

Regarding one of her most amazing shoots, she recalled photographer Sylvie Blum from Germany, known for her artistic nudes with live lions and tigers. "Not only did we get amazing photos out of the shoot, but she is such an incredible person -- one of the best people I have ever met. But I will say with David, I definitely feel the most comfortable in my sexier roles when he's behind the camera."

Fortunately, David and Jemme have a dynamic working relationship, as well as personal relationship. His first show at Moct premiered at this most recent Gallery Night in Milwaukee. It was also David's birthday. "The owner Sini called and saw postings on Facebook. He asked if I would be interested in showing my work. I didn't know at that point what I would display, but I thought it would be fun to have Jemme as part of the process of my first show. So I came up with a mini series of artistic nudes of her."

With two new magazine ventures in the works, I can only imagine good fortune will come to this humble and hardworking couple. I believe vision leads you down your destined path, and positive begets positive. You can see David's current work through December at Moct, 240 E. Pittsburgh Ave., Milwaukee.

First show premiere on your birthday? Quite a gift and accomplishment. Happy birthday, David, and many more to come.

For more information, please contact David@DaLaPhotography.com.

For more information on luxury base-layer apparel, please visit www.pooghe.com.

For more information on Henry Hall Jeans, please visit http://www.henryhalljeans.com/.

For more information on Moct, please visit http://www.themoct.com/.

12 October - Flying High, Beathouse & The Iron Horse

2009-10-21T06:46:00.001-07:00

A chopper. Who knew this is where I would find myself this week?

My friend Burkle had been asking me since early summer to go skydiving. It was something I looked into when I was in my early 20s -- pre-family and pre-responsibilities. I kindly declined, particularly after recalling a story where a wife bought her husband a skydiving excursion...and...let's just say it ended horribly. Nope, not worth the risk. Though I wondered if that fear should serve as the catalyst as to why I SHOULD do it. Uh...clarity again, please. Nope, still not worth the risk.

I contemplated what was the closest to being in the air as well as something I had not yet done. Helicopter ride. And actually take the reins. I began researching helicopter excursions that could fly my husband and I during dusk, overlooking Chicago's skyline. Between his crazy schedule and available airports to fly from, I realized I might have to go it alone. After much research, I came upon Chris Laskey from Midwestern Helicopters. Whew. Available two days from now? Perfect! Kenosha versus Schaumburg or Midway?! Even better.

The weather was gray and drizzly. I was a bit trepidatious. But flying beside a pilot with 46 years under his belt who prefers flying in this weather told me I was in good hands. When I arrived, Chris had this ease, confidence and calm about him that dispelled any fears. His disposition also allowed me to be my silly and curious self, as I had so many questions. Chris began with explaining the basics of flying..things like the difference of the wing between a plane and helicopter. The helicopter creates its own air movement, thus the ability to hover. We reviewed the terminology, different levers and parts -- two rotor systems, avoiding torque, collective pitch, trim, pedals and the cyclic. We discussed what each part is responsible for in the equation of movement. Lastly, we reviewed the commands of handing over the reins while in the air: "you have the controls"; my confirmation "I have the controls"; then his additional confirmation "you have the controls."

We then proceeded to the hangar. I was introduced to the Robinson R22...smaller than I thought. But stellar. Chris wheeled the aircraft outside. As we climbed in, we reviewed a checklist of making certain the controls and both systems worked (in case one failed while in the air.) We started the engine, put on our headsets, talked to the tower and began to ascend. We were floating. The closest to freely touching the sky was rising up into the air in this 2-seated helicopter, where a piece of glass separated me and the light drizzle. It was simply beautiful.

Leisurely. Calm. What surprising solace traveling 1500 feet above sea level at 90 miles per hour. The clouds prevented us from ascending any higher. After reviewing again the roles each lever, pedal and handle played, I was ready to have a go. The collective pitch ascended and descended the body; pedals turned the nose left or right; the cyclic tilts the rotor system which controls the direction and speed of our flight. Each movement was deliberately slow as the aircraft was extremely sensitive to the slightest nudge. I could feel I had to overcompensate a bit in the foot pedals due to the wind.

In order to become a licensed pilot, one must fly 50 to 60 hours ...at least I have my first 30 minutes. One needs flight ground instruction which covers rules on what is allowed and prohibited, weather conditions, where you can and cannot fly, etc. "Everything in America is regulated by licensing. In other countries like Russia, you have to answer where you are going and why. In the United States, we are allowed more freedom, but also more responsibility. If you violate any of the regulations, you lose your license. Period."

The second part in getting licensed is taking a written test by the Federal Aviation Association. The third is a 2-part exam with a designated examiner. The student is tested orally then must perform the maneuvers. How long it takes to actually achieve the license is dependent on how much the student dedicates to fly time, which should be 1 to 3 times per week. The financial commitment may reach approximately $12,000 to $15,000 in total. I thoroughly enjoyed my lesson, gave him a tip, which he initially refused. He called me a troublemaker followed by "but 'cha probably heard that before." We said our goodbyes and I assured him I would be back.

I followed this excursion with another fun task - recording session at Beathouse Music. I was so happy to see that Jim had reunited two of my favorite vocalists and client for this project, Erin, Ameerah and Ky. We goofed around per usual, but the synergy made for quite a productive and efficient session. Looking forward to the following reunion once more.

The week ended swimmingly with our wedding anniversary celebration at The Iron Horse Hotel. I met up with my husband, caught a cocktail before a relaxing dinner, then retreated back to our room for a comfortable night in. Happy Anniversary, hon.

Solitude at 1500 feet in the air; utter joy in a reunion of friends; connection and inner peace at this stage in marriage. All beautiful things...so very grateful.

For more information on Midwestern Helicopters, please visit: http://www.midwesternhelicopter.com/.

For more information on recording studio Beathouse Music, please visit: http://www.beathousemusic.com/.

For more information on The Iron Horse Hotel, please visit: http://www.theironhorsehotel.com/.

5 October - Spa Service du Jour

2009-10-14T09:52:00.000-07:00

I was curious about a certain salon service. Pretty much know what I needed to know. No longer curious. Enough said.

But I will comment on the new friends I made during the process. In between the wincing and Steve Carrell expletives, I listened to the stories of my wonderful esthetician, Bella. Appropriately named, she put me at ease. As she laughed at me -- I'm sorry, "with" me -- she spoke of her radiology technician days, the reasons for switching to a flight attendant, then finally finding her way to an esthetician in this stage of her life.

I could sense this position suited her well and made her feel most content. "I like making people feel relaxed. The lighting, the ambience... I truly enjoy helping clients in this experience." Funny... as I sit here with the antithetical service which does not necessarily correlate with that sentiment. But she did relax me, as we continued chatting of her 19-year-old daughter who is pursuing video production at Boston's Emerson College. It was nice to have met you, Bella. Perhaps I will see you next time under different circumstances. Note to self: Tylenol. And perhaps the personal monogrammed flask for the occasion.

I then proceeded to friend Sarah's salon, Blush, for a makeover. I met my friend Holly for some pampering and lunch. Lucky for me, I was paired with Carmelina, this natural, beautiful blonde of Italian descent. What an interesting lady with great stories. She had that, "What you see is what you get" air about her - authentic. She had always been a freelance makeup artist, with other jobs mixed in between. She lived in Los Angeles and trained under Laura Mercier when the company was in its infancy. She then moved back to chicago and was blessed with a 2-year-old daughter. Carmelina came to Milwaukee specifically for this event, and it was my fortune we met. I listened to her family, cultural and life stories, opinions of her dad's Italian side of the family, her grandmother and cousin Giuseppi...all conversations which I will keep between me and Carmelina.

After packing up our new facial goodies and saying goodbye to Sarah, I truly enjoyed my lunch with Holly. We had not "connected" in quite some time. Sure, quick emails here and there, but to actually see the person's face, reactions to the subject matter at hand, and of heart, is something personal. What a gem -- Holly, my true and loyal friend.

I left that afternoon half-giggling at the things I get myself into, or at least the questions of curiosity and inner monologues which lead me down certain paths. My personal philosophy is if I don't experience situations myself, I will only live through others; or simply just never know that piece of knowledge, which would eventually turn to wisdom.

Friend Jordan's Facebook status says, "It's better to regret the things that you've done than those you haven't." True true, my dear.

For more information on Neroli, please visit www.nerolispa.com.
For more information on Blush, please visit www.blushmilwaukee.com.

28 September - Take Inventory, Defy and Renew

2009-10-08T13:42:00.000-07:00

"Are you in a funk?" he asked. I smiled at my husband and asked, "Why?" Was it because I was two blog entries behind? Or that we were staring at the four loads of laundry still sitting on our tufted chocolate chaise in our bedroom? The underwear were now spilling onto the cream shag rug, which my husband called a game of Go Fish. "Is THIS my matching black sock? Nope. Go fish." My answer was "no, moreso uninspired." My blog became the antithesis of what I intended...a chore versus an inspiring task. In setting up this personal project, I knew myself too well. Anyone can set out to learn or try something new, but the blog was to represent a commitment, documented for no one but myself - a public diary to keep me accountable.

I realized it was time to just be. Exist. Take inventory and soak in where I was in my life. Deadline shmeadline. It was MY blog, for crying out loud. I knew if I just let myself be open, my senses would heighten and I would become more aware and open to receiving...whatever I was meant to. Therefore, appreciation and answers would begin to fill my cup. So I listened.

The week started with a Facebook note my friend wrote about decluttering. Declutter your body from poisons, your life from the noise and your circle of false friendships. It made me evaluate the lethargy I was feeling and what I could do to change it. What were the poisons from my life that were distracting me from my focus? Who was dear to me versus who held me dear? Whom had I cared for unconditionally and who was absent or judgmental in my time of need? I remembered that life is too short. Love them anyway, but declutter.

Then, remember where you came from. I sat in the kitchen, prolonging Mom's departure back home. The anticipated void began to create its warm nest in my stomach. She began her incredible storytelling over our ritual breakfast - oatmeal, coffee and tea. I interviewed her about her childhood. Her expressions, role playing, laughter and character lines that bring to life her history...of the innocent trouble she would start but blame her sister; the Japanese regime that made her family flee to the mountains and travel by night; the joys of jam sessions and teenage love; her growing up in poverty which set the path of a determined well-paying, adventurous nursing career; saving my dad's life in Laos during their tenure at "Operation Brotherhood"; to becoming the mother my friends always longed for...all without a mother of her own. How did she find the strength, clarity and wisdom? I documented these stories in tears, remembering the fabric from which I was cut and created. I will always remember this, our coffee, tea and oatmeal ritual.

In order to appreciate, you have to look where you have been. I re-evaluated my benchmark and what this year brought me so far…jumping in Lake Michigan with the polar bears and friend Burkle, visiting my former dojang to learn a new weapon form, surfing in the Shark Capital of the World, singing with Broadway's Christine from Phantom of the Opera, to playing sous chef to Top Chef Winner Stephanie Izard. More importantly, I had the fortune to visit with the elderly, feed the hungry and clothe those getting off their feet and seeking employment. I have met incredible people on this trip, including TV executives interested in what I had to say.

And most importantly, where I landed in this past year’s search brought me … home. All came full circle when I realized I already have all that I need -- an incredible husband, family (which includes friends) and God. So how horrific to be ... uninspired?? Indeed, the purpose of documenting in the form of a blog was for times like these. To remember.

I decided to mark this week with something I won't forget. A DEFY bag with my logo. My former advertising buddy and roommate Julie from Chicago sent me a link of her husband's new line of messenger bags made from recycled billboard vinyl. I perused and found my favorite. The Letterpress image would represent my writing, with my blog logo to remind me of the trail behind me and the path yet ahead.

Lastly, what better way to end the week than with a Women's Retreat. I always wondered what happened at these things. Do we all have mirrors and look at our privates like in “Fried GreenTomatoes?” Uh...not at all. As I walked in nonchalantly and made mental profiles of each woman, I found myself choked up within the first hour. I sat in a room of attorneys, artists, moms, superintendents, accountants, athletes.... And for the sake of keeping it sacred for the next group, I will not divulge what brought me the peace, intimacy and renewal needed in walking away. In listening and talking with these women, I heard key phrases like, "people should never assume they understand another's situation or hardship"; “there are no problems, only creative solutions”; “above all, persevere”; “when I was open to the doors being opened, I was pushed to where I was afraid to go.” These were stories of overcoming and empowerment.

I ended the week in gratitude, decluttering, making peace with the past, feeling cleansed and renewed. Ironically, today's quote of the day on this blog is "Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." – George Bernard Shaw.

For more information on recycled Defy messenger bags, please visit www.defybags.com.

21 September - Habitat for Humanity

2009-10-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

As I turned onto the correct street, I was hoping I was wrong. I checked the addresses as I slowly crept along. I made a U-turn in front of my assigned address and parked my car. The house was boarded up. I looked for any sign of life on the premises. As I was making myself very aware of my surroundings and double-checking what was visible in my car from passersby, a blue hatchback with booming music turned the corner and slowed down as it passed my car. It backed up until it was even with me and honked its horn. My heart stopped. I made no eye contact, pretending to search for something that didn’t exist. A man came out of the house I parked in front of and caught his ride, which was patiently waiting.

I brought my camera, wallet and phone and walked to the back of the house. “Hello?” No one answered. This was my first Habitat for Humanity assignment located northwest of downtown Milwaukee. I just kept reminding myself that I was here to do something for someone else. If I didn’t resurface in the process, then it was karma for me. But I realized I never told ANYONE where I was…not even my husband. So I sent a Facebook status of my whereabouts and began receiving texts and phone calls of people checking up on me. (Thank you, by the way. Means more than you know.) I walked back outside to find two women carrying paint buckets and rollers. I introduced myself and met Sara and Rebecca (pseudo name to protect her identity.)

Sara was the Habitat for Humanity site coordinator. I found that she was actually from AmeriCorps and applied to be a part of Milwaukee’s HFH project. She is only 23 and arrived two weeks before, from her native Cleveland. We chatted of how she began in non-profit construction through a mission trip in high school. She assisted on HFH projects in college and pursued a Sociology degree. This seems to be her passion at this stage, as the reality of what she committed to for this year is only began to set in. I asked if she ever feared for her safety. “I live in a neighborhood a little nicer than this, but yes, at first it was scary…walking to my car or to my door. When we are working on a home, we cannot leave anyone alone. We lock the doors if we are upstairs because there have been people who come in and steal things.” Great. Note to self, as I looked to Rebecca and asked, “Got that?”

Rebecca and I spent the whole day together. She seemed somewhat guarded, between 45-50 years old. She told me she was unemployed, but coming to projects such as these is better for her sanity than staying at home. She opened up about her past and beamed when she shared, “But I DID finish high school.” I found myself in a shameful state. So many, myself included, have the fortune to get up and do whatever we please, have a workplace to go, financial worries are not as much a concern, and still, we search for something to satiate… something. Here is a woman who would simply like to work and be busy. She comes to a site just to avoid sitting idle.

She told me of her dreams to begin her own business, as she taught me aspects of her trade and joked about my inconsistent ability in painting the ceilings. I could tell she was conscientious; she could tell I was a goofball. She took pride in her work…even if it were someone else’s home – a stranger, nonetheless. Rebecca shared that she used to work near my current address for over 15 years. The father of her two children still lives in the area with her daughter, but she moved to Milwaukee with her son. She shared some personal things with me, including her son currently serving time in jail. She was regretful of her parenting, perhaps enabling him and didn’t have enough work to keep him busy and out of trouble. I told her parents can only do so much. There comes a time when kids become adults too.

When we continued to talk about family, life and prospects of employment, she shared that she has a felony status. No worries – nothing what you may be thinking. Although, now that I think of it, I never pressed to know what the charges were. It was not any of my business, but hers to share if she chose. We talked with Sara about the potential of Rebecca joining forces with HFH. It seemed her questions showed a slight fear of acceptance and how to work with others. I hugged her, told her this might be the perfect fit for her and that she would never know unless she tried. As I was leaving, she asked, “Will we see each other again?” I told her that I hoped so, and gave her my phone number in case she ever needed anything.

I returned a few days later for a second project, but did not see Rebecca. This home was actually closing that day, so I was privileged to actually meet the homeowners and their interpreter. I was wondering how they found Milwaukee all the way from Africa several years prior. They did not…their government did. They and their children sought refuge and placement to flee from horrible conditions. Hearing the personal horror and torture of Congolese friends David and Regina Bakala, I could only imagine. Glad to witness the difference HFH makes in different pockets of the world. And the smile and laughter this home brought to this family.

I ended the week more appreciative for where I am in my life. I heard a priest once say, “Life will not turn out the way you expect it to. Accept that and know you will be okay. But remember: it is still darn good.” It’s true…take the bad, but make it good. Or at least find the good. It’s all there. So I spent an evening with friends more refreshed and rejuvenated. We celebrated Milwaukee’s inaugural Film Festival at the Discovery World. And ended the week with date night. Of course I have to include some element of food. My husband took me to Chicago’s Sepia in the West Loop. We spent the evening catching up on our week, epiphanies within our relationship, giggling and sending silly texts, acting like kids once again. After an incredible meal, clean plating, pure flavor profiles, we ended with dessert at Jose Garza’s Mercat. We reflected about so many things in our world, and are grateful for it all. I have to say, it was the best birthday to date.

For more information, please visit http://www.americorps.gov/, http://www.habitat.org/, http://www.saveregina.org/, http://www.sepiachicago.com/.

14 September - Organic Harvest & Terminology

2009-09-29T12:44:00.001-07:00

Fall harvest...gorgeous weekend weather with cool nights planned. It was time to pick the vegetables and herbs we planted in May (see 5/15 entry.) I realize this is something common for some. But for me and my husband, this was like a 4th grade science experiment where curiosity of the outcome brought us...back to the basics. We found it incredibly rewarding to witness nature work her magic and enjoy the fruits of our labor.

It was imperative to share this experience with others, so we invited friends down for an organic themed dinner. We built the menu around whatever each couple desired to share, the only requirement being to use organic ingredients. We offered the last of our backyard produce -- seven different kinds of tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, various onions, herbs, beans, etc. But the question du jour was what exactly constituted "organic"? One asked if that meant all vegetarian? Or simply no pesticides or hormones? Or use only things from a farmer's market?

What do some of these buzz words mean? In finding some answers, I did some research online, though I still found differences in fact-checking. I also spoke with Proprietor Roger from Blackwing, an organic protein distributor, as well as my dairy consultant friend Mary.

Organic vs. 100% organic – Look for “certified” or "100% organic”. The term "organic" in dairy products must have USDA certification. "For a dairy farm to be certified as organic, there is a list of criteria a farm must meet. A cow that produces organic milk can never be treated with an antibiotic." In certified organic produce, the produce must be grown, stored, processed, packaged and shipped with the avoidance of chemicals (such as pesticides, antibiotics, fertilizers, food additives, etc.) for a minimum of three years. In 100% organic proteins, the lands where the animal grazes and what is fed follow the same suit – grazed and grown in land free of pesticides and chemical fertilizers for a minimum of three years. Organic certification procedures will require that the food producer and/or distributor keeps detailed written records (of where, when, and how the food was produced) and keeps the organic food segregated from non-organic food if working with both foods.

Cage-free – No legal definition or standard. Simply implied.

Free range – Don’t be fooled. To be called free range MAY mean that chickens have access to the outdoors. This could mean they are caged in a barn with only six inches to move left and right but have access to a window. There are no standards. Also, "free range" has nothing to do with "organic." It is not the picture I had in my mind of these fowl happily roaming free, discussing which grain they may try tomorrow while jogging. More exercise, more muscles and less fat? Not necessarily.

Hormone-free - The USDA prohibits any injection of hormones in chicken, so any claim to be hormone-free is no different than its competitor.

Humane-raised – Certain practices must be met, but again, look for the word "Certified". Animals must be allowed to move an 18" circumference. This also refers to how the animal is caught. Some are caught from behind, out of surprise so as to not scare or raise the hormone level of the animal.

So in clearing up terminology, we felt a bit more comfortable in setting the courses. Our final menu?

Apple Goat Cheese and Honey Tarts
Baked Portobella Bruschetta
Pomegranate Avocado Salsa

Mixed Greens Salad with a Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing
Orange and Lemon Stuffed Rotisserie Chicken
Piedmontese Filet Mignon
Tomato and Basil Pie
Grilled Vegetables

Profiteroles with Strawberries and Chocolate Sauce

We were in charge of the main course. The 100% organic chicken and Piedmontese beef was served with the simplest flavors to showcase the freshness of the proteins. In researching local farms and organic proteins, we came across the company Blackwing. The proprietors Roger and Beth were a wealth of information. Over 15 years ago, they began in the farming business in South Dakota raising ostrich, then added buffalo when they realized the "superb quality of the meat. Kosher animals have to be in perfect health." They then sold their four farms and breeders, contracted with the same farmers, opened their distributorship and now support farms in Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Pennsylvania and Canada. Their business and reputation for quality certified and healthy proteins boomed when Nutritionist, Author and Osteopathic Physician Dr. Mercola asked to partner in their offerings – his clients required clean proteins for their diet. Their line has now grown to offer buffalo, Piedmontese beef (just as flavorful and high quality as Kobe, but lower in fat marbelization), ostrich, lamb, venison, elk, chicken, pheasant, quail, duck and hen. Call them directly for questions on everything from nutrition, to recipes to differences in processes.

Through our research, we exchanged what we learned (as well as recipes!) and finished off a wonderful evening of good cheer. We enjoyed organic wine, warm chit chat by the fireplaces and a comfortable slumber under the stars.

Helpful sites: http://www.thegreenguide.com/, http://www.organic-food-for-everyone.com/, http://www.aspca.org/, http://www.omri.org/.
For more information on Blackwing, please visit http://www.blackwing.com/.

For recipes, please email me at mailto:a2009journey@comcast.net

7 September - An Evening with a New Friend - Executive Chef Michael Feker, Il Mito

2009-09-22T04:28:00.000-07:00

When I walked in, I didn't see my party straightaway, but I poked my head into the private dining area to meet our head chef Michael Feker and his assistant, Jed. We exchanged pleasantries, then jokes and I think I ended with my Molly Shannon "Supah Stah" pose. Chef Michael and Jed chuckled and said, "This will be a fun night. Take your time. This is your evening to enjoy."

I found the rest of the ladies at Il Mito's regular bar as the rest of us trickled in to celebrate Amy's 40th birthday. This was the first time my core friends were reconvening in quite some time. I missed the camaraderie these women provide. Their kindness and authenticity provide such a safe haven that I am grateful for, especially when enduring the ups and downs of life…. After catching up, we headed into Il Mito's Cooking School to dine at the Chef's Counter.

I had never been to the Chef's Counter, nor this location before. And I have to say I have never enjoyed learning from someone so vibrant, humble and passionate about living his dream and generous enough in allowing us to be a part of it. We found our individual name cards and personalized menu at our seats.

Our three-course meal this evening was:

Tuscan Asparagus and Mushroom Salad with Watercress, Lemon Parmesan Dressing and Scrambled Eggs
Freshly Made Tortelloni, Stuffed with Ricotta and Beef Tenderloin in a Mediterranean Roasted Vegetable Ragu
Chocolate Torte with Espresso Whipped Cream, Fresh Berries and Chocolate Sauce

As he began preparing the salad, Chef Michael was a wealth of information in feeding us tidbits of his culinary passion as he performed. I did not realize this was going to be so much fun and like an actual class. He shared his philosophies, that cooking is not rocket science but passion science, and using the chemistry of the ingredients is what makes the whole equation work. Little tidbits like watercress was going to be the next super food because of its high antioxidant content...how we throw salt in the boiling water to season pasta because of the window of time allowed when its pores open...how when we cook with excellent (organic/fresh) ingredients, 3/4 of the work is done for us, as he scrambled our orange-in-color organic eggs to top off the watercress asparagus salad. He shared with us the difference between black and white pepper and when using each, they co-mingle and play with different parts of our palates.

What I found even more interesting was his background. Chef Michael is Iranian in descent. He grew up in Switzerland from the ages of seven to 18. In following his father's wishes, he pursued pre-medicine and moved to Los Angeles. Chef Michael knew this was not for him. He stayed in dental school until he visited his sister in San Francisco. While searching for a more gratifying route in life, his older siblings encouraged him to research the California Culinary Academy (CCA) to fulfill his interest in cooking. He knew this was what he wanted to do for the rest of his life...but was afraid to tell his father. His siblings 10 years his senior, were the buffer and explained to their father about his switch in careers. When asked if Chef Michael were around for the conversation, he joked, "Are you kidding? I got the heck out of there!" He continued to share many rich and poignant stories about his childhood, father, family and background. “We are so blessed here (in the States). I am grateful for the cleanliness, the water we drink…. I have been through a lot but that is what makes character. I squeeze the passion (from life) to absorb more.” We were honored to witness these incredible tales.

To get his feet wet, Chef Michael took an apprenticeship under Chef Jean Francois Metenier at L’Orangerie in Los Angeles. Upon enrollment at the CCA, he was mentored by a gentleman named Roberto Gerometta. He fell in love with the discipline and quickly became one of the top students. He was one of eight individuals invited to cook for Master Chef Jacques Pepin and Julia Child. Chef Michael put his best foot forward, flabbergasted and humbled at this opportunity to cook for these culinary greats and recalls the day vividly with the same enthusiasm. This tale in particular had us chuckling (ask him about it next time you take a class or attend a dinner.) He continued building his knowledge base, working on the Royal Viking Cruise Line, side-by-side Master Chefs who would board at various ports.

His training is classical French. One can tell by the precision in his technique and through his Alton Brown-esque knowledge in the chemistry of food. But he switched to cooking Italian when through the tutelage of his Italian Mentor Antonia Tommasi, he realized the Italians introduced the French to flavors and seasonings. Food was Tommasi’s art form and believed the beauty of any dish lay in its simplicity. Chef Michael calls his style Madriatic, a combination of the Mediterranean and the Adriatic side of Italy.

The whole evening continued in the entertainment in chatting with a new friend. We asked him his favorite ingredient = eggplant; his guilty pleasure = McDonald’s Whopper and Big Mac; his children’s favorite meals = broiled chicken Milanese and Cheeto- and tortilla-encrusted chicken.

He shared that cooking truly feeds his soul. This is not only his passion, but his stage and home. "It is all about balance...balance between, flavors, textures, and seasonings." Lucky for us, he found his own personal balance of heart, talent and storytelling.

Please join us for the taping of his next show, Feker's Culinary Magic, on Saturday, September 26th. It airs on Wednesdays at 5pm and Sundays at 11am on Channel 32, Milwaukee. For more information, please visit http://www.ilmito.com/ and http://www.ilmitocooking.com/.

31 August - Shanel Regier, Lela and Sewing for Goodwill

2009-09-10T00:29:00.001-07:00

With Lela's Sixth Annual Fashion Show coming up next weekend, I knew there might be an elevated level of uber stress for my dear friend Shanel Regier. She will be the headlining fashion designer.

Lela, a boutique located in the Third Ward of Milwaukee, carries an eclectic line of clothing -- vintage to cutting edge, casual to elegant, consignment to high end of carefully selected nationally known designers. I enjoy the shopping experience not only because I find a nice mix of classics to what's new, but because of the customer service. When I shop, I typically do not linger. I am motivated by purpose and visualize what I am looking for -- whether or not it exists is a different story. Lela helps me in that process with unique finds and exposes me to pieces I may have glossed over in considering it for myself. The success Lela enjoys is evidenced in its current project - doubling the store size to accommodate the new couture lounge and showroom, featuring Shanel's designs.

One of their signature items is the corset. Designer? Shanel Regier. I have yet to get my hands on one. I have quite a few of her pieces that have seen Chicago, Tokyo and Paris. And while at these cities, my husband and I noticed Shanel's look - classic with an edge of flair - also had a presence in these villes d'haute coutures. When I wear her varying designs, strangers sheepishly stop me and ask where I found my garment. The disappointment and, conversely, the glory are they are truly one of a kind. Just can't pick one up at Barney's.

A Nebraska native, Shanel moved to Milwaukee to attend the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD). She studied sculpture and fell in love with how fabrics fit, molded and moved with the human form. Since her first fashion show at Mantra Lounge in 2003, her brand has grown to enjoy national clientele, was showcased as GenArt Chicago's "Fresh Faces in Fashion" favorite and was featured on the front page of The Chicago Tribune. The privilege was mine when Shanel asked me to plan her 2006 show "Parisian Roots: A Performance in Couture." Our friendship has grown ever since.

Now in the throes of conceptualizing her newest collection, sketching designs, collecting her models, scheduling the fittings, meetings with Stephanie and Carrie from Lela, I have come to help her in any capacity - surge, seam rip, pick up coffee, etc. She typically shows 20-30 pieces. Though I have planned, marketed and was backstage producer in past shows, I had never actually helped on the production side. And no worries, I have sewn in the past...a double breasted cropped Janet Jackson-esque jacket with matching baggy pants (pretty funny now, but I swear it was hot at the time); not to mention my husband's Halloween costume, a Chinese collared fitted floor length coat as Neo from "The Matrix".

But walking away from watching her work, I was inspired to sew something as well. But not for me. My husband told me of one of Goodwill's professional services -- the Recovery Program. Its mission is to empower the unemployed to get back on their feet and find work. My mission, therefore, is to sew and donate a piece to this wonderful cause.

I went to JoAnn Fabrics to find a suitable design, selected a pattern and chose the fabric. Trying to decipher yardage among the different sizes and variations of the pattern proved to be a bit tenuous, but nevertheless got me started. I cut the patterns and pinned them to the fabric, following the instructions. This is still in progress and I will post the final product soon. Boy, I am hoping Goodwill matches the karma and intentions of this garment with a kind and forgiving soul! Hope this uplifts the spirit of a hardworking and hopeful woman.

As for the outcome of Shanel's pieces, I shall have to wait. But nevertheless, come meet me at her Trunk Show the following weekend. Let's check out the new Couture Lounge and sip champagne over a corset or two.

For more information on Goodwill and its programs, please visit: http://recovery.goodwill.org/

For more information on Shanel Regier, please visit http://www.shanelregier.com/.

For more information on Lela, please visit http://www.lelaboutique.com/.

24 August - Can't Teach an Old Dog a New Trick. Really?

2009-09-02T11:25:00.001-07:00

I did not grow up a dog lover. So how is it I have two?

Growing up in a family of nine, half of us were meant to be allergic to animal hair. And with both parents in the medical field, our home was a sterile haven. We had a beautiful aquarium that goldfish managed to jump, but our other "pets" included the occasional chipmunk or bunny one of the siblings would find. The added makeshift leash tied to our basement door was a nice touch. The "pet" of course was kept in our central social hub, the kitchen. Can't believe Mom allowed us half the things she did...but I digress.

Being petite as a child, I was always afraid of dogs. At least big dogs or small ones that bit, yelped and scratched. When I was five, our neighbors had a big fluffy white and gray dog that jumped on top of me, pinned me down and licked my face. Other experiences weren't so friendly, so I was always taught to "freeze" when I saw a dog. That made walking home from buddy Jane's house an hour-long ordeal. I could see my house one backyard away. But it was the one with a dog.

So when my husband asked if we could get a dog our first year of marriage, my answer was an absolute "no." We took a drive through the countryside with his brother Rick and wife Cathy and saw a handwritten scrawled sign: Puppies for Sale. We pulled over and looked at the litter in the kennel. Cathy held one, nuzzled it, then held it out for me to hold. I crinkled my nose and kept my arms crossed. She asked, "Don't you love that puppy smell?" I swatted at the imaginary gnats swarming around my neck as I started to itch. I sniffed it to possibly understand what "puppy smell" meant. To dog lovers, this may be nostalgia, where the scent opens up an album of personal random memories of warmth, childhood, laughter and perhaps sorrow, I suppose. An experience that did not resonate with me, but might have been collected in raising a dog from puppyhood. I looked at the seven little creatures playfully jumping all over each other, barking in excitement. But there was one yellow lab, content in the corner, not seeking attention but just happy that she existed in the first place.

As we headed back to our apartment on Oakland and Thomas, I could tell my husband kept planting the seed. I said, "If we get one, it has to be mellow and you have to give it a bath three times a week." That's all he needed -- he had the checkbook in hand and left to pick her up. And he did give her a bath several times a week so I could hold her. Until he said, "You realize this is bad for her coat." Oops. Oh, then let's shut that down, shall we?

The education process of raising a puppy was quite interesting to me...like giving her too many treats was like giving a newborn a chocolate bar; realizing smelling funnies in my dream in the middle of the night was reality...that there really was fecal matter in the middle of our bedroom floor; but also, meaningful parental lessons like being able to teach and train by structure, repetition and praise.

We endearingly named her Scout, after the charming little girl in To Kill a Mockingbird. Scout came to be my baby. When we moved to our first home, we let her run everywhere. We built an indoor/outdoor kennel. I felt the joy of her licking my skin and actually took her for walks, not minding at all to pick up after her. And when it was time to sleep, she slept in my arms under the covers.

But when the babies came, Scout gradually became a pet. As the attention waned, and I would rock each baby to sleep, she would lay at my feet. In looking back at photos, she stood guard behind the children. And the children paid their own interpretation of "attention" to Scout. As the years went by, I noticed in the quiet, I would turn off the last light to head upstairs. She would be waiting for me in the foyer, and follow me to bed. She still does. My personal guard and loyal friend. Who asks for nothing.

Scout is now 13 years old. Her arthritis kicked in a few years ago. I came home one day to a black lab puppy running around our backyard. I asked, "Whose is that?" My husband smiled and said, "I thought you said it was okay..." Um...for what? That's OURS? The month before we move to a new home? But he explained Jet, our new puppy, might help keep Scout young. We surmise that Scout is still waiting for us to come clean and call off the joke -- that this thing that stalks her at her most private moments of going to the bathroom, is truly a bad dream. After four years, I think she understands it is reality.

Though Scout has lost her hearing, we have not given up hope that her age and arthritis define anything. So after dinner last week, we decided to try to teach her a new trick -- proving wrong the adage "You can't teach an old dog new tricks." We looked down at our plates, which included purple potatoes, and decided to try to balance one on her nose.

The video shows our attempts. It also shows our effort in switching to another trick, but poor Scout just physically wasn't able to turn over -- nor could she hear her cues. So we switched back to what we knew ... structure, repetition and praise. And finally, progress.

Changing the piece of food to an inanimate object helped too, poor thing....

17 August - Raising Kayla, a Child with Cerebral Palsy

2009-08-25T13:46:00.000-07:00

I walked into her home and saw little 8-year-old Brooklyn at the kitchen table, scrapbooking quietly. I looked around to see the creatively painted and well-decorated playroom, neat and clean living room and family room. And I looked on the other side of the kitchen table to find beautiful little Kayla in her wheelchair with an artificial aquarium on her tray. Kayla was quietly spitting up, gasping for air. I was a bit apprehensive. Dear friend Shelly hugged me hello with her warm smile. She walked over to Kayla and calmly wiped her mouth as we caught up. Kayla was born with cerebral palsy.

Wikipedia states cerebral palsy, or CP, as "damage to the motor control centers of the developing brain during pregnancy, childbirth or after birth up to age three." There is no cure. Incidence is two per 1,000 live births. And though CP children can have a "normal" lifespan, symptoms become worse as they get older.

I asked if it troubles Shelly to see her daughter struggle this way, trying to take a simple breath. Shelly said, "We have to teach her how to manage by herself, otherwise we would be following her around constantly, doing it for her." I did not realize Kayla could be taught. Period. Such is my ignorance, as I recalled a CP classmate I befriended in college who asked me to go out dancing. Dancing, not dinner. A happy random memory that made me chuckle and gave me hope for Kayla. “So teach versus enable, so she can be independent?" I asked. She thoughtfully replied, "Isn't that what we all want for our kids?"

I think back to when I first visited Shelly months after Kayla was born. She was struggling trying to figure out why Kayla was not keeping her milk down. She took one ounce per hour and was exhausted. "I remember the day she was born. My doctor did an ultrasound and assured me that everything was fine. When they weighed her, she was floppy and was 6 pounds 7 ounces. Brook was 9 pounds 2 ounces when she was born so I was expecting Kayla to be in that same realm. Looking back, she had no muscle tone. After one month, she didn't have the reflexes she should have. The doctor thought it was neurological; we started physical therapy at New Berlin Therapies. You have a baby and do not think anything is wrong...."

From that point, she and her husband John, began to realize what was coming; though I am certain, it was and still is an unknown. One only operates with a finite amount of knowledge -- the wisdom comes through experience. They needed to learn things like holding her jaw so she could swallow easier as a newborn, to placing a NG (nasal) tube in her septum at a specific time -- only when Kayla exhaled -- then feed it into her stomach. They needed to test that the tube indeed was placed in the stomach, not the lungs, by listening with a stethoscope. "Our eyes were really opened to how much we had to do at home. I thought, 'I'm not a nurse; I'm not a doctor. I'm a mom. And this is not what I am supposed to be doing. Home is where she needs to be safe. I will take her to the Emergency Room, but I will not do this here at home.' John had to do it [place the tube].... If I have an ailment, I am not one to pop a pill, so I was fighting this for Kayla. But the seizures are hard to control without medication. Then you have the additional supplements because of the medication’s side effects. When puberty hits and hormones kick in, it will be another change. It's like we are on this ever changing timeline."

So what does it take to care for five-year-old Kayla?
In a day, Kayla will intake 14 different medications, some might be several times per day. These are for seizure, movement and supplements. Because of Kayla's reflux, these meds go into her small intestine, not stomach, through a GJ (gastrojejunal) tube.

At 6am, Shelly cleans her up from any wetness or leakage due to the 1,000 ml of water given throughout the night. She gives Kayla the first round of medication, nine syringes. Shelly then empties out her vent bag of stomach acid and places on her orthotics (braces for her legs.) After the meds, Kayla falls back asleep.
When she wakes, Shelly gives her a full bath. Then it is exercise time, depending on the day. Or off to an appointment or two. Every month Kayla comes down with an infection where appointments follow. Any new medication is filled and the medication sheet is changed to control other symptoms that may arise.
Kayla also has therapy twice per week. It is normal to pack for a full day, knowing homebound is at 4pm.
At 1:30 or 2, Kayla is given another round of medication. This is followed by another nap.
Dinnertime. When Kayla wakes, Shelly cooks a family dinner. Thereafter is dedicated family time.
Bedtime. The last round of medication is given. Then the bag of water of 1000 ml is put in place.

"We have to be structured but very flexible. Kayla can be fine one day and the next need to be hospitalized due to respiratory complications. Our environment is ever changing and we just have to adapt and figure it out. Brook is our other child in the world of 'normal.' It's keeping that balance. We get out as much as possible. It's so easy to become your own world in your own house. We've met so many people who are trying to find the answers and on the same journey, and yet live that life of 'normal.' We used to see a handicapped child in the grocery store or at a park...I never knew that world existed. Kayla has opened that door."

Penfield Children's Center was an incredible light of hope during their struggle and journey. Shelly and John were the Guests of Honor at the 2005 Penfield Croquet Ball Gala. John spoke and shared their story. “You could have heard a pin drop. Many of the men that sat in that room that night saw themselves in John, [realizing] this can happen to anyone.” They gave back once again by serving as the Event Chairs last year.

"This [situation] has challenged us spiritually, emotionally and physically. There were nights we would be up all night long. John...I don't know how he did it. He's the type of dad who would be up with Brook just because. He is a strong man. We have always stayed close, remained a team and were grateful for what we had." And luckily, they have help that came out of the blue. A nurse named Bethany approached John at church and offered her help. "She is a godsend and watched Kayla for a week while John, Brook and I went to Disney. That was very hard for me. I never wanted to divide our family. But then I realized when we are in the hospital with Kayla, Brook is with a grandparent or friend. I rationalized it as it's no different."

I realize it takes a certain kind of person, couple, to take care of a child with CP, or any developmentally-challenged child. I always thought God gives you what you can handle, so let it be a testament to one's strength of character to be dealt a difficult hand. But to actually be in the experience is not theory. It's reality. I remember seeing John walk in to my former dojang carrying Kayla while Brooklyn attended her first tae kwon do class. I was on my way out and remember how crowded it was. He told me afterwards he held Kayla through the entire hour with all the tubes in place. No one had given up his or her seat.

Shelly is one of those women who I turn to for a dose of wholesomeness. I hope everyone has a few of these people in his or her life. Her attitude is incredible and contagious. From the outside, one might think "simple housewife," as she bakes cookies for the neighbor kids and makes soup for strangers. (Have you or I done that lately?) On the inside, she has an incredible inner strength. Before becoming a mother, Shelly used her Biology and Microbiology degrees to extract DNA for hypertension research for the Medical College of Wisconsin. But her life and lab were in New Zealand.

And at our friend's lakehouse last summer, Shelly, in her 1940s classic fashionista bathing suit jumped on the jetski and took off for a period of time. "It was invigorating to have the wind whip through my hair at nearly 60 miles an hour, feel the water spray against my legs and all the while having the comfort of the warm sun on my back. I felt it like never before. When you are starved of something and first taste it again, the opportunity of experiencing it for the first time resurrects. My senses were at their peak. I just took it all in and relished in the fact that I could." John held Kayla in the shade and Brook bounced on the raft. When Shelly returned, she went on the big bounce and was launched into the air by a high school football player into the water. She is a caregiver first and foremost, but her resourcefulness, playfulness, creativity...person...is still there.

I asked her, in looking back to the first struggle to where they are now, what her thoughts were. "At that time, I doubted my ability that I would be able to provide for her the way that every child deserves. We didn’t have the option of reading ‘What to Expect when you are Expecting’. We researched every symptom and genetic disorder that was published. But Kayla has written her own guidebook and has been a tremendous teacher to our family and anyone who has had the opportunity to spend time with her. Sometimes I still say, ‘God got the wrong address.’ [Laughing] But those are times when I simply forget to turn down her feeding pump to 55ccs from 95ccs and she's feeling like she just ate five McDonald's shakes. Our goal, just like any other parent, is to give our children the best quality of life. I think the tables have turned in the respect that Kayla has given us quality of life. My eyes are now opened to experiencing Kayla’s world with all my senses, much like on the jetski that beautiful Saturday afternoon. We will ride the wave...and whatever comes, will come."

10 August - Surfing the "Shark Capital of the World"

2009-08-18T19:24:00.000-07:00

If you Googled the “shark capital of the world,” what is the first place you think would be listed? Somewhere far away? Exotic? Australia? Hawaii? Wrong. It's New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Just so happens to be the sleepy little town my family visits every year. It is an unpretentious, chillax town that has become our haven. It has our favorite "go to's" like Toni and Joe's for the world's best hoagie. Or Spanish River Grill for tapas, ambience and sangria. We live at the pool, with the Atlantic Ocean as our view. We walk the beach in the mornings and grab our coffee at our favorite little coffee shop. We visit our nostalgic surf shops like Quiet Flight for a pair of shades or Billabongwear. Or Inlet Charley's for a pair of Sanuks.

Prior to this annual trip, I emailed Inlet Charley's, a surf shop on Flagler Avenue, to inquire of surfing conditions. I also mentioned that last summer, friends from the UK took my son shorefishing, right in front of our condo. My son came running up the beach yelling. My first fear, as I ran towards him, was he had gotten caught in the hook. Nope. He caught a 2-foot white-tipped reef shark. A shark. For real? How nice. My first reaction was, "I didn't think they came that small." Brilliant. The email response I received stated, "It has been sharky at the lnlet but surfing is fine farther down the shore line. Just stay away from the Inlet and you will be fine." Sharky. Really? Because I can WALK to the Inlet from where we stay. I thought that was the funniest response. My friend Nat says that's like "scattered showers." Like 30%? 40% chance?

In further research and in talking with my husband, he said he wouldn't worry. He advised not to look at an aerial view before I head out. Brother-in-law Scotti said he went out to the sandbar and wouldn't think twice about worrying. So I went.

My two-hour class at Nichol's Surf Shop was incredibly comforting. Our instructor Mike said he would be the first one out among the four of us. And if anyone would get bit or grazed, it would be him. For $75, that was a kind gesture. We spent 40 minutes talking about safety and the tide. Then we practiced getting up on the board on land. I am a very visual person and in order for things to make sense, I need to see it in my head, follow the logic, understand why, then apply the feel. "Paddle hard, push up, slide your foot underneath you and shift your weight to the back foot." This is the opposite of snowboarding, where you shift your weight to the front foot, towards the hill. Mike also said this was probably the most difficult of those sports -- skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, boogie boarding, etc. -- because the wave and energy are different every time.

We set out for our morning swim. I forgot that I had to actually submerge my body in order to do this. I also forgot I didn't like being cold. Afraid I would feel something nipping at my ankle, I quick dunked my head under and followed my two other classmates. To get past the shoreline waves, we velcroed the tether around whichever ankle belonged to the "back foot" and dragged our board behind us like a dog on a leash. Then we paddled out to at least six feet of water. To overcome the incoming waves, we were taught to do a push up so the wave went between our bodies and the board.

We sat and waited for the waves to come. I found it was difficult to know what I was looking for. Mike told us to watch for when each started to stand, not simply roll in. When one came in, Mike turned my board, told me to paddle, then yelled, "Stand!" I stood, but I didn't get the "feel" for the energy of the wave underneath us. How "Point Break"-esque. Good ol' Patrick Swayze and neophyte Keanu Reeves. So I turned to my visualization. I knew I would not be able to stand without control. So the only way to gain control is to keep a low center of gravity, therefore, don't focus on the stand at all. If I had to, I needed to keep my hands on the board.

I tried a few more times and it worked. I went back to catch Mike and my classmates for one more wave. They were quiet. I asked if lessons were over and they said, "No." After a few minutes of silence, Lauren another student said, "There's something out here." Oh. Well, note to self. I better get my ankles on the board and tuck in my toes. Then get out of the fringe and head to the human that is in the water - Mike. As he graciously offered, he would be the first. They said it was something dark and surfaced. Probably a manatee. I wondered if that was Japanese for "Jaws." Lauren explained they were cute, sweet creatures like sea cows. Again, Japanese for "Cujo?"

Mike explained that he has surfed here for years and that sharks come near him all the time. Injuries were typically from being grazed, not bitten. And we should remember that we were in their home and habitat. That was a neat way to look at it, actually. They were not the intruders, we were. When I saw this ocean as a place to be respected, I was at peace. We went for one more wave and headed in.

It saddens me every year to say goodbye to this haven. Maybe I’ll try the Inlet next year….

27 July - Serving as Sous Chef at My Favorite Restaurant, La Merenda

2009-08-02T21:58:00.000-07:00

I always wondered how executive chefs of my favorite restaurants do it. How do they consistently plate tasty dishes to indulge? What is their philosophy? What is their management style which keeps the same servers happy day in and out, and the same line cooks behind-the-scenes? So I asked the executive chef of one of my favorite restaurants if he would mind me shadowing him for a day and play sous chef. Peter Sandroni of La Merenda in Milwaukee, owns a tapas restaurant boasting international cuisine. What draws me to this restaurant time and again is enjoying high quality food in an unpretentious atmosphere. It is, in a nutshell, Peter. His philosophy, humility and integrity come through in his food. The flavors are gutsy, intelligent, fun and diverse. The cultures represented range from Italian, Indonesian, Puerto Rican, Filipino to Argentinian and Moroccan, among others. I asked if we could create some twist and use the evening as a community service opportunity as well. We created specials based on traditional Filipino cuisine and made it into a food drive for Hunger Task Force.

We promoted the dinner on two local affiliates which was a completely new experience for me, The Morning Blend and Fox WakeUp . It was a nice trip down memory lane to my broadcast classes back in Madison, but I felt like a child awaiting the first day of school. My husband asked, "You're nervous? Good. It means you are being challenged." I walked in to one of the stations that morning, shook the producer's hand, was told a guest canceled and had to get miked straightaway. No time for primping. C'est la vie. I saw the bubble of hair in the monitor and chuckled inside. I couldn't quite pat it down while talking to the beautiful and ever calming Kim Murphy. I cannot say enough about the hosts of both the shows. They were professional and make their guests feel so very comfortable.

Afterwards, I headed to the restaurant. Peter and I reviewed his typical day:

10am review checklist of what to order and prep
10:45 off to stores
12:30 back at restaurant to start prepping
lunch hour in-progress
4:00 waitstaff meeting to review specials and how they are prepared
5:00 dinner service

I looked at the clock: 10:50. After reviewing what we needed, we were on our way to El Rey. I learned that Peter's educational and professional background actually began in political science. When his aunt and uncle asked for his help in opening a restaurant, this quickly turned into a love for cooking. He joined Chicago's famous restaurant group Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (Scoozi, Cafe Babareeba, Tru, Nacional 27, etc.) Shortly thereafter, Peter moved to the KDK Restaurants which include the likes of Marche and Red Light in the West Loop. This is where he met his current employee, but soon-to-be-boss, Jennifer Aranas, a Filipina chef. When she opened the nationally-acclaimed Rambutan, she asked Peter to join her team. Studying under Jennifer for a few years shaped and refined Peter's style of cooking and vision of his restaurant.

"She thought the only way for people to try a wide variety of food is to force them into it. The small plating of tapas makes people order a few plates at a time. What a fun way to dine. Every culture has their own version, so I thought why don't we put that all together."

After purchasing plantains and treats for the line cooks, Peter led us to the next destination and search: Asian Mart for Japanese eggplants. We walked into one of his favorite Asian marts, where the shy Thai owners and their daughters joke and welcome Peter. He loves supporting all the local small business grocers. What we found instead were the perfect alternate that looked like mini watermelons. They were beautiful in color; a nice complement to the braised ox tail dish, Kare Kare.

11:45. Back to the restaurant and ahead of schedule. The boxes of produce arrived, which came from the local markets. Peter is a huge proponent of helping local farmers, even if "local" may mean 1 1/2 hours away. We went through boxes of fingerling potatoes, heirloom tomatoes, pea pods and beans, and tasted berries upon berries... His manager Mary asked, "What are you going to do with the berries?" His response was, "I don't know yet but look at that color." He orders his chicken from Springdale Farms, which he would butcher and use in one of our specials. It seemed Peter downplays his support for local farmers. "I feel like I'm using them to market myself. It doesn't feel right. It sounds elitist. I help them in other ways." Very interesting philosophy since it indeed would be a draw knowing he orders the majority of his produce and proteins from local farms. He goes about it humbly without it stamped across every aspect of his restaurant. As we were talking, he figured out what to do with the berries: add them to the creme brulee. Yum.

We prepped and cooked together. I trimmed the ox tail and chatted of how my mom was in the kitchen 24/7 growing up. She had seven kids, the wife of a doctor, no cleaning lady and somehow prepared 3-4 dishes every night. Boy, I have no idea how she did it. The memory of coming down the stairs and seeing the solo dining room light came to mind. The smell of pandesal, freshly baked Filipino bread, would permeate the house and bring me out of bed to see Mom kneading the dough. Just then, some patrons came to dine and pay their respects....so did Peter. "Everything I do, you do today. Greeting the customers is one thing. Follow me." This is also what we love about Peter, we see him personally thanking the guests as often as he can, shaking their hands, learning their names, asking about their families.

4:00. Dinner service was to begin in an hour. My friend Amy set up the Hunger Task Force display to help greet people as they walked in. We set up the menu cards, which read:

"In the Philippines, food and cooking is more than a means of sustenance. It is a labor of love and a way to show concern, gratitude and hospitality. It provides a sense of community. It is our culture. Tonight's event was merely to bring us all together under one roof, to give back and perhaps -- in keeping with the blog -- to try something new. Filipino food is heavily influenced by the Spanish and Chinese cultures. Though there were so many dishes we wanted to make, we chose a few classics and added a La Merenda twist. These dishes have been created exclusively for you. Thank you for joining us. Please enjoy." The menu items were: chicken adobo (chicken in soy, garlic and vinegar), kare kare, (braised ox tail in peanut butter sauce), peter's twist (coriander-crusted beef), pancit (Asian noodles), gulay at gata (vegetables and coconut with mashed potatoes), lumpia (egg rolls) and halo halo (sweetened beans and fresh fruit with ice cream, leche flan and ube, purple yam.)

Peter talked with his staff to debrief them on the overall concept of the dishes and how they are prepared. They joked and he commended them on how well they work under pressure. He told them he anticipated doubling the typical guest list. The bar and dining area began to fill as guests from all across my history began to enter the room. The parents of my childhood friend arrived; dear Paul Counsell, my former boss from Cramer-Krasselt and BIG foodie arrived; friends and former co-workers from Chicago, Madison and far north; and all friends in between. My husband and I felt it was like our wedding reception relived.

5:00 In full swing. I worked the front of the house while guests arrived. And continued to arrive. The beautiful thing is people were still calling to try to dine and the only option left was at 5 or 9:30. A good and bad problem to have. I watched in the kitchen as the orders and delivery were constant. Such is the nature of a tapas restaurant. The flow continued until 10:00. We stayed talking with our guests from Madison, which included Peter's sister Ginny.

I learned in one day some of what makes his operation successful. It's a combination of leadership and management -- he inspires his team with passion for his art. He imparts his knowledge but is open to suggestions. And when the stress hits behind-the-scenes, he is efficient and jokes around to keep things moving. I am grateful for my experience and with 175 full bellies, over 300 pounds of food and monetary donations for Hunger Task Force, twas a good night indeed. Thank you to all who came to support and to Peter and his staff.

If you would like to support La Merenda, please follow this link to the Urban Spoon website and vote: http://www.urbanspoon.com/lb/43/best-restaurants-Milwaukee

To find out more about La Merenda, please visit http://www.lamerenda125.com/.
To find out more about Hunger Task Force, please visit http://www.hungertaskforce.org/.

20 July - Alongside "Top Chef"s

2009-07-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

Top Chef is the number one show in our household. I commented so on my Facebook status months ago and rhetorically asked who might be eliminated next. As the responses started pouring in, my friend Brian in Chicago asked, "So you really like this show? I'm friends with Stephanie Izard's sister." Stephanie, as you will recall, is the winner from Season 4. America's “Girl Next Door,” also the show's first female winner who won against Lisa and Richard in Puerto Rico. With my culinary benefit for Hunger Task Force this week, Brian asked if he might introduce us; perhaps she might be available to help. We started emailing, and though Stephanie was unfortunately booked, she asked if I might be interested in working on one of her charities, Chicago's premiere "Chefs and the City." Um, let me think. Why, yes.

I walked in to the beautiful Peninsula Hotel on State Street. Thought of all the questions I would ask and was hoping to have a sitdown discussion. Nope. Was not the type of venue or vibe. So I decided to soak it all in and talk as we go. I walked in with a black sleeveless tee, fitted black corset skirt, peep toe tangerine and cream platforms. Stephanie and her sous chefs looked at me a bit funny and said hello. They were dressed in tee shirts and jeans. Nice. Forgot to ask the dress code. But with a $250 ticket, raised center stage fashion reveals and an Oprah/Nate Berkus auction package starting at $10,000, I felt confident knowing I fell somewhere in between, wardrobe-wise.

Stephanie was as cool and relaxed as she was on the tele. We chatted some and I asked how she handles the fame. She said, "I don't even think of [the title of] Top Chef much anymore. I just want to focus on opening my own restaurant." Stephanie has been keeping busy with eight different charities, traveling and preparing for her new place, "The Drunken Goat." Lately, she has been cooking two to three private dinners per week. I asked how she decided on the dish for today. "I'm not much of a planner. See this printed menu? This isn't what I'm making because I forgot this is what I told them. I've never made this dish before, but hopefully the flavors will come together." She doesn't plan too far ahead because she is inspired by what she might find that day, like the ingredients found today at Green City Market which will serve as one of her favorites, salsa verde. The final dish? A miso-marinated lamb, with fingerling potatoes and scallions, served over a salsa verde and topped with fried crisp onions, preserved lemon and goat milk feta.

As I quietly hovered in my shyness, one of her sous chefs was chopping parsley. She turned to me and introduce herself. "I'm Lee Ann." We exchanged pleasantries and I asked how long she had been cooking. "Well, I have been a chef for 11 years and was the Executive Chef at the French Culinary Institute in New York City." Oh. A neophyte. I was a bit embarrassed. I kept looking at her face, wondering how I knew her. Was she a friend's cousin? Were we related...I couldn't place it. I asked, "How do you know Stephanie?" She replied, "Through the show. I was on Season One then consulted on the show for four years." I flipped out and asked, "LEE ANN WONG?!" We loved her! She was polished, professional, every dish was well thought out. She smiled this beautiful smile and said, "Yep. No one recognizes me. I lost a ton of weight. Something I'm really proud of, actually." She looked gorgeous.

We talked about her diet regimen, her family background and being an executive on the show. Lee Ann initially began in fashion at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology.) She was a successful sample maker but found the classes no longer matched what she had envisioned. So one day she was watching the one cable channel she and her roommate received in their tiny New York apartment -- Food Network. "This was the old Food Network, we're talking when Emeril Lagasse first came on." Her friends always encouraged her to cook, so she enrolled in the French Culinary Institute. She later became the Executive Chef and represented her school on the very first season of Top Chef. "I knew I'd be on national television representing my school, so I had to put my best face forward. They were ironing out the kinks, having us sit in the car for hours while they filmed...." She JUST recently watched the episode where she was bumped. "It was painful to watch." I asked what she learned. "To simplify my food. I never had my work critiqued like that before. Being an Executive Chef at a culinary school, everyone is telling you what you want to hear." Lee Ann then joined the executive team to help shape the successful show it has become. After four years of offering her perspective as a contestant, coupled with her knowledge of from The Culinary Institute, she left Bravo after filming Season 6. "It's amazing what I've done in 12 years, working with greats like Jacque Pepin. I'm just taking it easy now. I'll probably open up my own restaurant in a year or two."

I scanned the room and walked around to ask questions about this charity. Vital Bridges is a non-profit organization that serves those impacted by HIV and AIDS. They provide meals, housing, case management and prevention services to over 10,000 clients since its inception in 1988. This event, "Chefs and the City" showcases Executive Chefs from 20 of Chicago's finest -- Spiaggia, Naha, Blackbird, RL Restaurant, The Publican. Radhika Desai from Top Chef's Season 5 was stationed next to us, as she and Stephanie were representing Allen Brothers, a top supplier of beef. In preparing for an event like this, with 300 projected attendees, the three explained they prepared everything yesterday, with finishing touches today.

With an hour before service time and confidently prepared, we headed to the bar. I was able to catch up with Stephanie's sous chef David, who came from the well-known Spiaggia. After his 16-month-old daughter was born, he and his wife decided to switch careers. David became the stay-at-home dad, while his wife went back to work in the medical supply industry. After five months of bonding with his daughter Ramona, David said he gained such an appreciation for what stay-at-home parents do. It is true work. And after understanding he needed something for himself, he re-entered the culinary world with Stephanie's new restaurant, "The Drunken Goat," scheduled to open in 2010.

After a group shot, the chefs began cooking and preparing their dishes. The distinct aromatic smells started filling the room as marinated proteins hit the hot grills. I took a moment to soak this in...our nonchalant conversations, the ambient sounds of chatter and silverware clanging, professional chefs paying respects to one another. It was funny standing next to Lee Ann and Stephanie. On the tele, they look larger than life. Standing next to them, they were shorter, if not as tall as I was -- a mere 5'2". To think... these accomplished individuals lead relatively normal lives, or at least have taken extraordinary experiences and let them simmer inside and have stayed true to who they are. Just seemingly unpretentious personalities. What a privilege to be invited to spend a day getting to know each of them.

As the guests began to arrive, I started plating. It was pretty much head down and working for the next two hours. It was neat to work as a team. Where one was slowing, the other picked up. I started with a dollup of the homemade salsa verde; to follow is Lee Ann's diced fingerling potatoes. The next was David's seared miso-marinated lamb. Last was Stephanie's fried onion crisp with preserved lemon and goat milk feta. One would think plating the salsa verde was easy enough... Uh.. no... As I intensely tried following instructions, Steph joked, touching the plate, "uh...could you please make them more similar?" Halfway through service, I was starting to get sloppy and Lee Ann kindly reminded me, "Maybe half that size would be enough." We helped each other out, quietly and diligently, while Stephanie tended to her guests. It is funny to hear the banter of people telling Steph she was their favorite contender. She treated everyone as though they were old friends. I asked Lee Ann if was strange that no one recognizes her. She says, "Not at all. I am so over it," while she enjoyed dancing and laughing with David, grilling and slicing the lamb.

As some guests waited and were sneaking in taking a plate, I jumped in and greeted them to represent Stephanie. Told them of the dish she prepared and felt a part of their team. She looked at me and laughed, "Look at you!" The whole point is to make sure the head chef can do her job with ease. Guests did not slow...everyone said this was their favorite dish by far, coming back for thirds and fourths... I don't blame them, as I tried it myself. I never considered myself a lamb person, unless it was 3am at Oakland Gyros or Madison's Parthenon’s. But this was incredible. She wasn't sure if all the flavors would come together??? They most certainly did.

As the night came to a close and we stepped outside to unwind with a cocktail, we were a bit exhausted. Lee Ann and I talked about some of the interesting characters from the show, like Dale who punched a wall and hyper Andrew. She was just with Harold the other night and explained she flew in to help Steph for the weekend. Sunday would be the kickoff of Stephanie's concept "Wandering Goat Dinner Series," where she prepares meals for 40 people at different venues across Chicago until the opening of her new restaurant.

Decompressed, we all hugged and said our goodbyes. Steph asked, "Please keep in touch." Will do, Steph.

13 July - Reiki (Energy Healing) & Getting Centered

2009-07-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

When my friend first told me of energy healing and Reiki, all I could think of was Whoopi Goldberg as Oda Mae Brown in "Ghost." I still contend that is one of the most unintended hilarious movies, by the way. And as Yve is explaining energy healing to me, I'm hearing, "Morticia, I can hardly see you. Baby, what'd you do to your hair?" ["You like it? It's called 'autumn sunrise'."] But when I learned it was about a Japanese concept of using energy for spiritual and physical healing, I was more than intrigued. In traveling to Japan last year, I have an incredibly well-founded respect for this intelligent, polite, orderly, considerate culture. Behind every bow, every movement, every action, there is well-considered thought. Rei translates to "God's wisdom or a higher power" and Ki means "life force energy." Together, "Reiki" uses a Universal Life Force to heal or balance from within.

I revisited this art of healing. Researching local teachers deemed a bit challenging. Friends who were either familiar with or have had experienced Reiki had no firm recommendations. I googled some in Milwaukee and found since many treatments are done within the homes of practitioners, I was less inclined to select a male instructor and attend alone. Others seemed to have a focus on certain elements with which I may or may not have been comfortable. I looked to the Chicago area and found one who seemed not only credible -- certified in Reiki-ssage, Reconnective Healing and Pre-Cognitive Education (among others) -- but also fit my criteria with regard to years of training, different focuses and personal experience.

I contacted Patricia Heenan from Evanston and scheduled an appointment. A petite lady in her 60s opened the door. Her warm disposition made me feel welcome straightaway. We spoke for a good 45 minutes about her background, and how she first got into this line of study. Patricia shared that her son has suffered from Tourette Syndrome since he was five. He is now 38. Patricia needed to get through to him somehow, in addition to the efforts of music therapy. For a hyperactive child, now adult, he is able to lie still and receive treatment for over an hour -- a thought that was once impossible. "It turned out that he became my best client. He's like a baby receiving my energy. And it became clear that I was the only one who could help him. We have a true bond." Patricia continued, "If I can help him, I can help anybody."

She is an intuitive too. She sat across from me and began to feel my energy, an "intuitive check." She explained that the body is made of seven energy centers or chakras. Starting at the top of her head, Patricia touched her crown and held one palm facing me. She then moved to her brow and touched her throat, the sixth and fifth chakra and again held her other palm out to face me. She continued down to the other chakras (heart, solar plexus, sacral and root). She relayed everything looked relatively open, meaning no major blockages that would prevent energy flow. She also explained areas like the power center or solar plexus is typically from where men operate -- the gut. The lower chakra area, including sacral and root are typically weaker or blocked among women.

When we continued in our exchange of life tales, she mentioned she was an empath. I was not quite certain sure what this meant, until she heard my story and began saying a meditative prayer for me. I began to cry. So did she. An empath can sense the truth, not a facade simply projected for show. This compassion aids in breaking down walls and manifesting true emotion. She was a soul present without judgment, but feeling what was flowing through me. And I began to release.

After our discussion, we moved to the reiki table. I lay face down, fully clothed and she began meditation while providing a "reiki-ssage." She explained that Reiki works with the chakra system, versus a method like acupuncture which works with the meridian system. It seems the meridian system is more physiologically based on bloodflow and nerve points determined on the skin. This treatment is a powerful combination of Reiki energy work and therapeutic touch, and it is certified under reiki versus massage therapy. As Patricia maneuvered around my body, she commented on a tremendous source of inner strength, but found emotional blockage. She continued meditative prayer and cried throughout the course of the session.

When we were through, we talked a bit more of her incredibly interesting experiences and other gifts, the difference between karma (actions of mind and body) and dharma (a universal norm to live by, which is determined by one's cumulative karma) and finding closure from our session. She did recommend not to talk afterwards...to remain in this space and let the energy balance, which can work within for up to 36 hours.

It was perfect timing. The latter half of my efforts in re-centering was going away on holiday for the remainder of the week. I left my phone behind to disconnect and re-connect with those most important -- my husband, family and friends. And that portion, an annual special holiday, remains personal. ;)

To find more information on Patricia Heenan, please visit her site www.spiritualrelease.com.

6 July - Storming the Bastille

2009-07-14T06:37:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the best thing for me to do is to walk into a situation blind. Cold turkey. Depending on the situation, of course. The annual run of Storming the Bastille was one of those situations. It is a 5K (3.1 mile) run that marks the opening of my favorite Milwaukee festival, Bastille Days. It is a manageable walk around Cathedral Square, with live music, interesting characters and a 43-foot Eiffel Tower. Give me my "Chicken Kebab Sandwich" from Aladdin and "Mosaic Crepe" from Cream and Crepe, and I'm good to go.

And for as many years I had been enjoying this soiree, I never participated in the run. No desire. I almost did last year. I was packed and ready to go...until I joined my friends for a beverage at Umami Moto's opening. As most of them left for the starting line, my friend Amy and I, engrossed in great conversation found it necessary to head to Cubanitas for my favorite Cuban sandwich and a Caipirinha. And it was necessary.

So, I figured this year was the year. I do not run like I used to, so I had not "trained." I even had to ask my girlfriend what people wear running -- the last pair of athletic shorts I purchased was over 10 years ago. So I at least updated the wardrobe in that arena with an athletic tank and skort. I walked up to my friends who were perched in a prime spot outside of Singha Thai. Dishes galore, tempting me with Pad Thai and Basil Fried Rice. They were laughing, teasing me in my nonchalance, snapping photos while watching these serious runners do their calisthenics. "Joy, shouldn't you at least be stretching out?" The two who initially encouraged me, Yvette and John, had already done their light five to 10 minute jog to warm up. Uh...for real? Is that what I am supposed to do?

There was a team stretch by a group called the "Pink Panthers." I asked friends for some quick tips, as runners were approaching the starting line. I heard things like, "be sure to inhale deeply and exhale it all, otherwise you may cramp" or, "last year, I thought I was almost done with the race, then realized I wasn't even close." Or "the incline on the last stretch was brutal." So going into this run, I made mental note to manage my own expectations. I tried looking at the map and asked myself "Why bother?," as I am a poor judge in distance and am pretty certain the last time I ran a mile was in high school gym class.

As the host started counting down to start time, my hands began to sweat. I looked back at my friends having a cultural feast and giggling at my expense, raising their glasses. I finally realized with four minutes to go, that I had an "on-the-go" option on my iphone, which allowed me to create an updated playlist. Yes. Yvette said the run is only 14 songs long. 14?! I plugged in 20 and looked up to the sky for a last call for help.

So started the timer. And the run. I pressed play and listened to my own inhale and exhale to "1, 2 Step." Bodies jumping, adjusting and readjusting for an open space; other bodies trying to set their pace. I checked to see if Yvette and John were still to my left. Song two: "I'm Good, I'm Gone." We traversed up a hill by the lake. There is something magical in traveling as a group of strangers with the added element of nighttime. Everyone was in a great mood. And some were quite serious, beginning to concentrate harder than before.

I actually felt peaceful while being comfortably aware of being unaware of where the path will lead. Dee-Lite's "Smile On" passed the time nicely as I looked around to see people giggling and talking...something I simply cannot fathom while running. It not only adds to the physical exhaustion, but tests my mental fortitude. Nice change in attitude as "Lips Like Sugar" chimed into my personal stereo. As the fleeting chagrin of "I thought I was almost done" dawned on me, I could tell we were more than halfway there. I see the people on the side cheering...young families, empty nesters, friends out at The Wicked Hop raising their mugs and Bat Man standing on Broadway... That was a welcome sight. Bat Man. Mask and all.

I am thoroughly enjoying this camaraderie until I realize my left ear bud stopped working at "Mayor of Simpleton." Shucks. The mental support started to hinge and sway. I kept telling myself that if I stopped, then I would be done for the rest of the run, so I at least kept the trot. The crowd continued to pull and lead. I still have no idea when this will end. Then came that dreaded final incline to the finish line. I kept the pace and looked up at the clock. I saw the number 28:29.

28 minute 5k. Again, sometimes the only way to prepare is to not, and just go with the flow. Check in with me next year, though. Now that I know what to expect, you might find me back at Cubanitas for some Ropa Vieja.

29 June - Tasting Summer at The Iron Horse Hotel

2009-07-06T14:36:00.000-07:00

Summer. Feel the sun on my skin, the smell of natural oils mixed with lotion. Listen to the cars zooming by on their way to unknown destinations, the occasional bass booming from an open window donning a 20-something in Ray Ban's...all welcome company. I smell marinated flank steak cooking on the barbie and think of my favorite frequents...Summerfest, La Merenda for cuisine, live music anywhere and Iron Horse Hotel for cocktails.

Featured on the "Today Show" and Conde Nast's "Travelers Hot List for 2009", the Iron Horse captures the essence of edgy chic and casual cool. With an eclectic decor of primitive antiques, wrought iron, amber glass and Edison bulbs, this hotel has attracted world travelers. It sits at the base of a historic and active railroad. "Iron Horse" is what Native Americans used to call the train. The modern day interpretation of "Iron Horse" is the motorcycle. Eloquently enough, a guest will find the new Harley-Davidson Museum nearby.

"When you come to a hotel like this, you don't want to order a cosmo at the bar. It's already been done and too mainstream. I would expect to see trained bartenders who take the classic cocktail, then twist and resurface them on the menu," says Dustin Drankiewicz, resident mixologist and head bartender of the Iron Horse.

The weekly task was tasting the 10 new Signature Cocktails of Branded, the main bar and restaurant of the Iron Horse. These are to be introduced this week. Branded's signature cocktails are infused with certain herbs and spices. With names like Ginger Snap, Apple Jacques, Reviver and Beeka, after Dustin's grandmother, what's not to pique one's interest? And of course, I had to bring a crew of discriminating palates...John, Yvette and Cora. The overall comments were "refreshing, unique, crisp and perfect spectrum of exactly what you want." The thought process behind creating this season's span of rock drinks was to use fresh herbs to enhance the flavor profiles, stay on the sweeter side, and the use of simple syrups. All products are from the distributor Capitol-Husting. And all alcohol bases are infused by Dustin himself.

Dustin uses only fresh ingredients and herbs to infuse and garnish the specials -- from lemongrass, rosemary, sage, basil to granny smith apples. He tends to avoid the neutral spirits like vodka but prefers gin, bourbon, vermouth and whiskey to infuse. And he is quite select in using Rehorst products and tastes like St. Germain, a liqueur based on the Elderflower from the Alps.

Being a mixologist, there comes a wealth of much knowledge. As Dustin was describing some of the ingredients, he would launch off on the history of Milwaukee-based Rehorst, or how the heirs of Chambord branched into two products, Canton, a ginger-based cognac and St. Germain. I asked how Dustin began his interest in mixology. "I was bartending and cooking in Las Vegas for two years...with someone who kept up with educating himself on different techniques of cooking. He would feed me knowledge. This sparked a passion for experimenting with herbs and spices. I would go home and start cooking with different tastes. This eventually spilled over to mixology.... Gary Regan was a big influence. [From reading his books on mixology] I realized there were different levels of bartending -- making classic cocktails versus serving a beer."

Thus began Dustin's new creative outlet and interest in experimenting with different flavor profiles. He told us of a story that while making fish tacos, he decided to garnish them with sage. He took a sip of lemonade with the sage taste still on his palate and thought the two blended nicely. Mix in taking a bite of a pear, thus came his idea of "Cristal Flower"...a pear- and sage-infused gin with lemon juice, ginger simple syrup and St. Germain. Complemented with a sprig of rosemary inhaled with the sip, it won us over. John said it was the quintessential outside drink on a good hot summer day. This was Yvette's favorite.

The next cocktail, The Reviver, is Dustin's take on a "pick me up", serving the same purpose of the classic Bloody Mary. The twist is using the anise taste of Absinthe, St. Germaine, Lillet Blanc, a white wine vermouth, lemon juice and Plymouth Gin. The beauty of this, in our opinion, was the hint of licorice was subtle with a nice citrus taste. To me, after letting it sit, it seemed the taste opened up like the bouquet of a red wine. It marinated and mellowed.

The Apple Jacques was quite interesting. Comments on this was "complex taste and establishes its own category." Dustin used a coriander simple syrup, muddled basil and ginger, lemon juice and rye whiskey infused with granny smith apples. Simply delightful.

The Ginger Snap was not only aesthetically pleasing, but one of our favorites in taste. It contained gin, Canton, cinnamon simple syrup, ginger beer, mint and lime juice. It is interesting to note the ginger. Dustin mentioned he likes to keep up with the latest trends, confirming why I have seen more ginger beers in a few restaurants in Milwaukee.

The next cocktail was mine and Cora's personal favorite, Pineapple Smash. All the flavor profiles suited me, as I am a big fan of basil. My husband and I make a lime basil granita in the summer months. The peach simple sugar, lemon juice, basil, Rehorst gin infused with pineapple was excellent.

Ol' Donny Boy...our comments? The best-scented. A Mexican Mimosa, as John called it. This incorporates the citrus of orange, lemon, lime and cherry with Agave simple syrup and tequila. Pleasant remnant of nostalgia of breakfast with my family as a child.

The Beeka is named after Dustin's grandmother, due to its "sweet and stern" nature at the same time. He incorporates a taste of Wisconsin with Door County Cherry-infused brandy.

The remaining cocktails are Pryor Street with an orange blossom liqueur garnished with rosemary, Round #1 with Barcadi's Dragon Berry (strawberry), and Nacional with essences of peach and apricot.

Truly, this breadth of signature cocktails spans the spectrum of discriminating palates as there is something here for everyone. I look forward to enjoying a few on Iron Horse's outdoor patio, "The Yard." The ambience simulates friends' rooftop lounges in Chicago...a feeling of home. I also look forward to checking in with Dustin next season to see what more he has learned and with whose paths he crossed that may have left a new influence. "You are as good as the people you empower yourself with."

Well said, my friend. Be sure to pay Dustin a visit and taste a bit of summer.

More information on the Iron Horse can be found at http://www.theironhorsehotel.com/.