The Larissa Monologues

Tres Leches Cake

2012-02-01T16:18:00.000-08:00

We've been trying to cut back on desserts, so I haven't been baking sweets recently. Steve is training for a marathon, and we are both trying to get back into shape after the holidays.

One exception was my birthday. I decided that I wanted tres leches cake. Pastel de Tres leches (Spanish for Three Milk Cake) is a sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk - evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. It is light and rich at the same time, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. The bakeries in our densely Hispanic Los Angeles neighborhood all serve a version of tres leches cake.

The cake came out moist and delicious. The amount of milk mixture was more than necessary, and probably could have been cut by 1/3. I also decreased the 1 cup of sugar for the whipped cream to a 1/2 cup. It made a perfect birthday cake. We topped it with cherries, blackberries and raspberries.

Tres Leches Cake (adapted from All Recipes)

print this recipe

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 cup white sugar

5 eggs

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

cups whole milk

(14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

(12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk

1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

cup white sugar

teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour one 9x13 inch baking pan. Sift flour and baking powder together and set aside. Cream butter or margarine and the 1 cup sugar together until fluffy. Add eggs and the 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; beat well. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture 2 tablespoons at a time; mix until well blended. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 30 minutes. Pierce cake several times with a fork. Combine the whole milk, condensed milk, and evaporated milk together. Pour over the top of the cooled cake. Allow cake to soak in the milk mixture for at least 30 minutes. Whip whipping cream, the remaining 1 cup of the sugar, and the remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla together until thick. Spread over the top of cake. Keep the cake refrigerated.

Disney Toys & Gender Issues

2012-01-29T11:43:00.000-08:00

Childhood is great. You get to take naps, have snacks, run around in your underwear. And you get to play with toys all day.

Toys are important, because they teach kids valuable things like sharing, fine motor skills, and how to be responsible by putting away and cleaning up (my son is still learning this one).

Apparently, some toys also teach children about gender.

Aaron got these Disney figures for Christmas...

Aren't they cute? Who doesn't love Mickey and the gang? Everyone is looking all dapper and happy. But wait a minute...where are Minnie and Daisy?

Oh, here they are. The problem is, they are unable to stand up! Both Minnie and Daisy are striking model poses and wearing high heeled shoes, so when you try to prop them up, they just fall right over.

Did Minnie and Daisy go to charm school to learn to stand like this? Hands are dainty, one knee is bent, chests are prominently stuck out, and butts are being flaunted.

While the ladies can't stand on their own, they are able to lean on their men. Mickey and Donald, the self-assured and independent males, lend a supportive arm to their gals. Boy, aren't they lucky to have such lovely, delicate women to swoon over them.

So here we are. The whole group of Disney friends, teaching us all about male & female identity. Thanks, Disney.

I do realize these are just toys. Real life lessons need to be taught to our children through other means. And there will always be elements of our society and culture that I'll need to help my children navigate. But still...I find it a bit disturbing what Disney toys are modeling to my two-year-old son about gender.

DIY: Felt Corner Bookmark

2012-01-25T15:48:00.000-08:00

I completed my first DIY 2012 project! This little felt corner bookmark was simple to make, and was a good way to start my monthly arts and crafts projects. It took me 10 minutes (including chatting with my crafting pal Chante) of cutting and stitching. Now, this little bookmark sits cozily on a page of A Dance With Dragons by George R. R. Martin, breaking my terrible habit of bending page corners.

Chinese Almond Cookies

2012-01-22T14:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Year of the Dragon!

My earliest memories of baking come from helping my mother make these Chinese almond cookies. As a young girl, my job was to help roll the dough into walnut-sized balls, flatten them with the bottom of a glass, and put the finishing touch of the little red dot on each cookie's center. These cookies were my mother's specialty, and she was once asked to bake 500 cookies for a non-profit fundraiser event.

These cookies are much like a light shortbread or pie crust. They are buttery, and almost melt in your mouth when you bite into them. The almond flavor of the extract give them a distinctly Chinese taste, making them a wonderful treat. Set out a plate of these for Chinese New Year. Gung hay fat choy!

Chinese Almond Cookies

print this recipe

1 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons shortening

3 cups flour

1 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 egg

1 teaspoon almond extract

Almond slivers (optional) 

Red food coloring

Sift together flour, salt and baking soda; set aside. Cream the shortening and gradually add sugar, egg, sifted dry ingredients, and almond extract. Make into balls the size of small walnuts, and flatten with a glass dipped in flour. Press a sliver of almond in the center or dot the center with red food coloring. Place cookies on an ungreased baking sheet about 1 1/2 inches apart. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-17 minutes until golden brown.

31 Life Lessons Learned In 31 Years

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

Today is my 31st birthday.

I want to celebrate it with a few simple things this year: Chinese food with my husband, a nice martini, and tres leches cake.

As another year passes, I spent some time reflecting on some of the lessons I've learned.

Here are 31 life lessons learned in my 31 years:

Spend time in silence and solitude. It is where you will find peace, inspiration, and clarity that can't be experienced in the noise.
There is no such thing as stylish and comfortable high heel shoes.
A handful of great friends is worth more than a hundred mediocre ones.
Be a good listener. You will learn, understand, empathize, and communicate respect.
Time is not endless. Use it wisely, and don't waste it!
Inspiration and motivation come in small bursts. Act while it's hot.
A hug can solve a thousand problems.
Own your failure and mistakes.
Simplify. Get rid of the clutter.
Kindness takes you farther than intelligence. If you are ever faced with the option of either being right or being kind, choose kind.
Figure out the few essential things you value in life, and build everything around that.
You don't have to do anything - you always have a choice.
Most people's opinions of you don't really matter. Stop worrying about pleasing and impressing others.
Marry someone with a good sense of humor and a good sense of self.
Nobody has it all figured out. So it's okay if you don't either.
Exercise and eat well. Treat your body with care because it's the only one you get.
Things are usually better in the morning.
Multitasking is overrated. Do one thing at a time.
The measure you give is the measure you'll get.
Life gives and takes away. Learn the art of contentment and gratitude, and you will be free to embrace whatever you do or don't have.
Find something that you love and enjoy, and make regular time for it.
Skip the okay dessert (Hershey's Kisses), and eat the really good dessert (Mom's rum cake).
Create margin in your life. Maintain a healthy pace, and make room for interruptions.
Wear something that makes you feel good every day, even if it's nice underwear beneath sweatpants.
This too shall pass - those awkward adolescent years, the first months of parenting, depression - none of them will last forever.
Treat strangers with compassion, including the snippy clerk at the DMV.
Learn how to manage money wisely before you have a lot. Save, budget, spend less than you make, and don't go into debt.
Embrace the present moment.
Some things are worth paying more for. Buy the quality leather couch, wool coat, and good knives.
Practice gratefulness.
Know yourself. Learn your weaknesses, strengths, and temperament. Self-awareness is a great gift to you and everyone around you.

Toasted Coconut Macaroons

2012-01-16T14:03:00.000-08:00

I love coconut. Since I was born and raised in Hawaii, I suppose it is in my blood.

What about you, do you enjoy coconut? If your answer is yes, then we are instant friends. If not, well...the jury is still out on whether or not we can ever really get along.

Coconut macaroons are pure shredded coconut, baked into toasty little mounds. This cookie is basically a meringue, with a crisp exterior and chewy interior. This recipe toasts the coconut, which provides a nuttier flavor and distinguishing crunch.

They are delightful to nibble on, and pair particularly well with English Breakfast Tea.

Toasted Coconut Macaroons (adapted from Star Advertiser's By Request 2)

print this recipe

4 egg whites 

Pinch of salt

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract (I used vanilla)

4 cups shredded sweetened coconut

Toast coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring until golden. Set aside and let cool. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Whisk egg whites and salt until foamy. Gradually add sugar, whisking rapidly until mixture is smooth and thick. Fold in vanilla, then coconut. Stir well to moisten all the coconut. Using wet hands, form the mixture into tablespoon-sized mounds and place on the cookie sheets, about an inch apart. Bake 15-20 minutes. Cookies should be firm but still yield to the touch. Slip parchment onto a rack to cool, then peel the cookies off the paper. Store cookies at room temperature in an airtight container. Makes about 2 dozen cookies.

DIY 2012

2012-01-11T22:32:00.000-08:00

I have a long list of craft projects that I mean to work on when I have the time and inspiration. The problem is, that list keeps growing, and "when I have the time and inspiration" never really happens. So in the spirit of a new year with new habits, I am starting a year-long project: DIY 2012.

This year I will complete one craft project per month. As with My 2012 Habits, I invite any of you to create your own list of DIY projects for the year. Pinterest is a great (and frighteningly addicting) way to collect, organize and share your own craft ideas.

Here are my 12 projects:


Wrap Turned Scarf

Heart-Shaped Rainbow Crayons

Paint Aaron's Bedroom

Citrus Salt Scrub

Coffee Table

Etched Glass

T-Shirt Bags

Coasters

Antilles Tank

Felt Corner Bookmark

Homemade Finger Paint

Monogrammed Mugs

My 2012 Habits

2012-01-09T20:29:00.000-08:00

Instead of creating a list of new resolutions this year, I am creating new habits.

Leo Babuta, writer of Zen Habits, wrote about the power of habits in his Compact Guide to Creating the Fitness Habit recently, inspiring me to think differently about this new year.

Whenever I set goals or make resolutions, they rarely last. But when I develop a habit, that leads to long-term results.

Several years ago, I created a few simple health and fitness habits. I started eating a nutritious breakfast. I started exercising three or four times a week. I banned most junk food from our house, and began buying healthier foods. I started eating from smaller plates. Now I am at a healthy weight, have physical endurance and strength, and eat better than I have in my entire life. That's what results when I change a few habits.

This year, I am creating 12 new habits. Every month, I will practice one new habit. By doing this, I hope to make some lasting changes. Each habit is something that fits with my personal mission statement, and fits with the values that I want to develop in my life. Many of them fall into the categories of spiritual health, physical health, and simplicity. Each habit is also something that I can do daily.

Here are my 2012 Habits:

Wake up at 6:30am, and start the day with prayer, silence & solitude.
Eat only real food.
Start the day by creating a list of "Three Important Tasks." Complete the tasks.
End the day with the Daily Examen (a prayer created by St. Ignatius Loyola).
Exercise every day.
Manage email one time a day, for no more than 30 minutes.
Pray for another person every day.
Eat fruit, vegetables and nuts for snacks.
Write for 15 minutes every day.
Connect with one person every day, either by phone or in person.
Practice Lectio Divina prayer every day.
De-clutter and simplify one area (closet, shelf, drawer) per day.

By posting this list of habits, I am making my commitment a public one. I will give some updates on my progress here at The Larissa Monologues. Also, I invite you to ask me more about these habits, or create your own. I would love to have friends who want to join me in creating new habits this year!

Reflections on 2011

2011-12-31T07:00:00.000-08:00

As I think back over 2011, I am grateful for many things. Namely, I am thankful for the people in my life - my family, friends, church community, ministry partners, readers - who have willingly invested their lives into mine. Thank you. This year has been joyful, challenging, and difficult. In the midst of it all, I am thankful that I am not an isolated individual, but am surrounded by some incredible people.

I wish you a wonderful new year!

1. What did you do in 2011 that you’d never done before?

Turned 30.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
Here are my 2011 resolutions. I stuck with most of them, except for writing a book. For this coming year, I am tossing out my typical list of goals/resolutions. Instead, I want to forge a few new habits. I'll share that in another post soon.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes, my sister-in-law and brother-in-law welcomed their second child in mid-December.

4. Did anyone close to you die?
Sadly, we had a miscarriage (our second within a year). Steve's grandmother also passed away. Here are some thoughts on her that I wrote after her passing. That event had reverberating effects on me, mostly serving as a reminder and inspiration to live a life that is invested in lasting and worthwhile things.

5. What countries did you visit?
We took a cruise in the Caribbean, and visited Puerto Rico, Saint Thomas, Saint Kitts, Saint Lucia, Saint Maarten, and Barbados.

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?
More time and energy to create.

7. What dates from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
The day we found out that our unborn child had miscarried; I can vividly remember our doctor's exact words to us as she shared the news.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Working on making our 100-year-old house into a home; it included projects like painting several rooms, and lots of decluttering.

9. What was your biggest failure?
I don't think I would call this a failure, but I didn't complete a book like I had hoped.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nothing notable.

11. What was the best thing you bought?
My black spiral artist sketchbook, where all my reflections, hopes, creative ideas, and musings are recorded.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
My mother, who left a great job for an opportunity to work for the Governor of Hawaii. Her new role is incredibly challenging, and she is a model of courage and vision to me.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
No one's.

14. Where did most of your money go?
House payments. Honda CRV.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Hosting our family Thanksgiving. The midnight showing of Harry Potter 7.

16. What song will always remind you of 2011?
"Party Rock Anthem" by LMFAO.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) happier or sadder?
b) thinner or fatter?
c) richer or poorer?
Happier, neither thinner nor fatter, richer.

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Writing.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Internet browsing.

20. How did you spend Christmas?
We visited family in Lodi, CA. Lots of wine tasting, lots of presents, and lots of dessert.

21. How did you spend New Year's?
We're going to host a few friends at our place. Although, I predict that by 11pm I will be ready to hop into bed.

22. Did you fall in love in 2011?
No.

23. How many one night stands?
None.

24. What was your favorite TV program?
Top Chef & Jeopardy.

25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
No.

26. What was the best book you read?
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson, and A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin.

27. What was your greatest musical discovery?
That Fleetwood Mac is still one of the greatest bands in history.

28. What did you want and get?
A great 5-year anniversary with my husband. An annual pass to Disneyland.

29. What did you want and not get?
Another child.

30. What was your favorite film of this year?
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2.

31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 30. My friends and family indulged in another themed birthday party. This year, we turned our house into a 1920's Speakeasy. It was open-mic night, so people recited poetry, sang songs, and did other creative performances while we sipped on Old Fashions. It was one of my favorite birthdays ever.

32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Living closer to more of our family.

33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?
Creative and simplified. For most of the year, I was committed to not buying new clothes, which led to reworking and re-imagining my current wardrobe. Pinterest was a big help.

34. What kept you sane?
Steve. Exercise. Weekly time with friends. Prayer retreats.

35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Steve Jobs, for his vision, drive, and innovation.

36. What political issue stirred you the most?
American greed and consumerism.

37. Who did you miss?
Steve's grandmother.

38. Who was the best new person you met?
Our new nephew, Logan.

39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.
There is power in the ability to hope.

40. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.

"Every day's a new day." (from "100 Years" by Five for Fighting)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

Befriending My Body

2011-12-19T15:05:00.000-08:00

My body and I have gone through thirty years together. Over the course of those three decades, the relationship has fluctuated and evolved.

When I was really young, I was hardly aware of my body. It was mostly a vehicle for playing, jumping, climbing, and simply enjoying the world around me. Life was simple.

During adolescence, the relationship became more complicated and tumultuous. I started noticing my body, seeing its peculiarities and quirks. Everyone else around me looked better, which made me feel even more self-conscious. All I wanted to do was rid myself of my awkward body, and transport myself into a different one with more height, thinner legs, no acne, and straighter hair. I belittled my body, calling it fat and ugly, and I hid it behind baggy clothes and a snarky attitude.

In my college years, I began to accept my body for what it was. I also assumed that my body would stay the same forever. I was in my twenties, with my whole life ahead of me! The freshman 15 was added to my hips and stomach, mostly through lack of sleep and late-night trips with roommates for Mexican take-out. In my junior year I found myself in an emotionally dependent dating relationship, which led to depression and over-eating. Thankfully, the relationship eventually ended, but I was stuck with bad habits with food and a body that I mistreated.

I finally wised up when I turned 25, and realized my days were numbered, and my body wasn't invincible. I began to understand that I had the power and responsibility to treat my body with care. My body would not last forever, but until then, I could embrace it and nurture it. I started exercising, which I hadn't done since my high school days of playing soccer. I became more thoughtful about the quality and quantity of food I ate. I lost over 35 pounds. More importantly, the relationship between my body and me was one of mutual love and interdependence.

At age 28, I was pregnant with our first child. Suddenly my body was evolving in new ways. It was a home for our unborn child. With all the pregnancy aches and stretching, it was amazing to me that without any conscious doing of my own, my body knew just how to nurture and produce a little human being. My stomach ballooned and I couldn't find a comfortable sleeping position for the entire last trimester, but I loved the physical experience of pregnancy. Later, when I met our newborn son for the first time, I was astounded at the power of the human body.

Now, my body and I have come to a pleasant understanding with each other. I treat it as well as I know how. I eat things that I enjoy, eat when I am hungry, and eat healthy food. I exercise regularly, doing activities that are fun and challenging and strengthening. Though I am healthy and fit, my body also shows signs of aging. Lower back pain is an ongoing annoyance, and I find myself needing more sleep and rest than I did in my early twenties. This body is maturing right along with the rest of me, and that is okay.

I accept my body and all of its unique qualities, including the post-baby stretch marks and mole on my left cheek (they make me me, after all!). When I look in the mirror, I see a body that allows me to think, play, create, digest, move, work, love and live. And for that, I embrace this body with joy and gratitude.

Happy Things

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

Homemade Cranberry Pepper Jelly (from Bon Appétit).

DIY Project: The Shirt Skirt (from Fashion Indie). What a cool, easy way to repurpose a shirt. I should raid my husband's closet.

The perfect hot beverage for the holiday season, mulled wine.

Misto Olive Oil Sprayer - my new favorite kitchen tool!

Gingerbread Cookies

Calendar Journal - write just one thing that happen each day, year after year. I wonder if I'd have enough discipline to do this.

The Great Santa Debate

2011-12-10T15:11:00.000-08:00

Ever since we got married, Steve and I have had an ongoing debate over whether or not to do the Santa thing with our children.

Santa Claus was a huge tradition in Steve's childhood. Santa made yearly visits to the big family Christmas gathering (while some uncle or another mysteriously disappeared for the duration of the visit). He has wonderful memories of Santa, and wants to continue the tradition with our children.

I, however, have mixed thoughts on Santa. When I was about seven, I began to wonder about the feasibility of Santa Claus. How did one fat, bearded man with a large sack of toys manage to fit through people's chimneys to give gifts to every child in the world in one single night? "Is Santa real?" I asked my parents suspiciously. "Of course, he is!" was the answer I received. I suppose they were trying to keep the magic alive for me, at least for a little while longer. By the next year, I was sure of the truth, and quite disillusioned by the realization that grownups lie to children. Embittered, I spread the bad news to my younger siblings and cousins. Out of that experience, I feel a bit hesitant about spinning the Santa tale for our trusting kids.

That brings us to now, Christmas of 2011. Steve already owns a Santa suit, and is very excited to dress up as jolly Saint Nick for our 2-year-old son. We agreed on a compromise: we will give our child the Santa experience, but whenever he questions the truth about Santa, we will come clean. At some point, he will understand reality from make-believe. Until then, our family will enjoy the fun of setting cookies and milk out on Christmas Eve, and anticipating a visit from Santa Claus.

Homemade Holidays

2011-12-06T14:47:00.000-08:00

This Christmas, I am attempting to make as many gifts as I can. I get to be creative, put time and thought into it, and avoid the chaotic, consumer-driven malls.

For Aaron and his cousins, I made some hand-stitched felt tooth bears (from Martha Stewart). These little guys were simple and fun to make, and will fit nicely into the kids' Christmas stockings. I also learned the new skill of embroidering a French knot...exciting, I know!.

As gifts for other friends and family, I am creating some jarred goodies, such as lemon curd and orange marmalade.

Do you need some ideas for gifts to make? Here are a few:

Thread Rack Jewelry Organizer
Canvas Jewelry Organizer
For expecting parents, Nursing Cover or a Baby Sling
Handkerchief Tote Bag
Convertible/Infinity Dress
Pillowcase Apron
Bath Salts
More Creative and Unique Gift Ideas

Are you making gifts this year? Share your ideas!

The Waiting Game

2011-11-29T22:05:00.000-08:00

For over a year, Steve and I have been trying to get pregnant. One year, in the grand scheme of life, isn't very long. But for me, this year of waiting and hoping has felt like eons.

I do not enjoy waiting, and I really do not enjoy not being in control. But that is what this year has been about - anticipation, longing, and an exercise in patience.

As I wait, I am learning several things. I am learning that a lot of life is about waiting, such as this Advent season that we just entered. I am learning that waiting produces maturity of character (something that I really do want, even though it can be an exasperating process). I am learning how to enjoy and be content with the present, even when something I want is not yet the reality. For now, we get to be a family of three, with all our parental love devoted to our one child. I am learning how to let go of my plans, and submit to the truth that very few things are within my power to control.

We believe that we will have another baby at some point. When that time comes, there will be a joyous celebration. But until then, here I sit, learning to embrace the waiting.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T09:34:00.000-08:00

“We would worry less if we praised more.

Thanksgiving is the enemy of discontent and dissatisfaction.”

~ Harry Ironside

Today I am surrounded by my family - my husband Steve, two-year-old son Aaron, mom and dad, two brothers, and sister-in-law. As we linger in the kitchen preparing for a Thanksgiving feast tomorrow, there is much for me to be grateful for this year.

A home that is constantly filled with laughter, conversation, and community.

9 years in a job that inspires and challenges, with great supervisors and co-workers.

Our neighborhood farmer's market.

My circle of fellow mother friends. I can't count the number of times this group has rescued me out of the parenthood doldrums/crazies, and reminded me to keep going and keep my sense of humor.

Physical health that allows me to run, jump, climb, and enjoy an afternoon at the park with my son.

Books. Not electronic readers that burn holes into my eyes, but real paper books that get loved, worn, and remind me that simple pleasures are usually the best kind.

Friends who address conflict, tell the truth, and stick with me in difficult as well as the good moments.

Trader Joe's Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups.

Our Corner Community, with friendships based on pursuing the important things in life together. It includes some of the most interesting, hilarious, and kind people I know.

Scoops Ice Cream in Los Angeles. Hands down, the best ice cream joint in the city. Who else serves up delicious, creamy Guinness Chocolate or Brown Bread ice cream? No one, that's who.

The preschool we recently found in our neighborhood. It seems like a great place where Aaron will thrive.

Amazon Prime, which has saved me all sorts of trips to Target where I intend to get one item, and end up with a cart full of random stuff. Amazon's two-day shipping and fantastic customer service have won me.

The ability to be creative, through things like cooking, art, gardening, and writing.

This little blog, and all you readers and friends out there.

Happy Thanksgiving to you!

Perfect Pumpkin Pie

2011-11-20T20:56:00.000-08:00

I cannot get enough pumpkin these days. Our kitchen has a constant lingering pumpkin scent from all of the pumpkin baked goods I've been making. Pumpkin scones, pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, pumpkin bread, pumpkin bread pudding, pumpkin spice cake with brown butter frosting. Yum. And now that Thanksgiving is approaching, I get to make pumpkin pie!

What is your perfect pumpkin pie?

Mine is made of flaky, buttery crust that crumbles and almost melts in your mouth. It has a creamy, light pumpkin filling that is full of spice. And it is topped with homemade whipped cream.

After many attempts at pumpkin pie, and many different recipes, I have decided that the following is my go-to recipe. This is the classic pumpkin pie, with a great crust and perfect filling. I suggest you double the recipe and make two pies, because one is simply not enough.

Perfect Pumpkin Pie

print this recipe

Pie Crust

1 1/3 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons ice-cold

1/2 cup shortening

In
 a medium bowl stir together flour and salt. Using a fork, cut in 
shortening until pieces are pea-sized. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of water 
over the flour mixture; gently toss with a fork. Push moistened dough to
 the side of the bowl. Repeat moistening flour mixture, using 1 
tablespoon of the water at a time, until all the flour mixture is 
moistened. Form dough into a ball. On a lightly floured surface, use 
your hands to slightly flatten dough. Roll dough from center to edges 
into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. To transfer pastry, wrap it 
around the rolling pin. Unroll the pastry into a 9-inch pie plate. Ease 
pastry into pie plate without stretching it. Trim pastry to 1/2 inch 
beyond edge of pie plate. Fold under extra pastry. Crimp edges as 
desired.

Pumpkin Pie

1 recipe Pie Crust (above)

1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 slightly beaten eggs

3/4 cup half-and-half

Prepare
 pie crust (see recipe above), and set aside. For filling, in a medium 
bowl combine pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. Add eggs; beat
 lightly with a fork just until combined. Gradually add half-and-half; 
stir until combined. Place the pastry-lined pie plate on the oven rack. 
Carefully pour filling into the pastry shell. To prevent overflowing, 
cover edge of the pie with foil. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 25 
minutes. Remove foil. Bake about 25 minutes more or until a knife 
inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Cover and
 refrigerate within 2 hours.

Retreat

2011-11-14T19:36:00.001-08:00

I spent the weekend on a personal retreat on Catalina Island.

Two full days of silence, solitude, and just being.

It was rainy for most of my time there, but I didn't mind one bit. I spent my time curled up in blankets, alternating between reading, writing, praying, napping, and doing absolutely nothing.

My mind, body and spirit are feeling refreshed and restored!

My Life in Verbs

2011-11-09T09:53:00.000-08:00

Anticipating... Thanksgiving! I love, love, love Thanksgiving. Who doesn't enjoy a holiday weekend that revolves around food and family? We are also celebrating an early Christmas with my immediate family on that same weekend, so it will be a big ol' holiday fest. I'm debating whether or not I should roast the turkey again.

Trying... to potty train Aaron. We sort of started the process several months ago, but haven't been very intentional about it. This week, we decided to work at it. Aaron gets excited about wearing his "big boy" Mickey Mouse underwear, not to mention his M & M reward every time he uses the potty.

Wanting... clarity about my future. I'm thirty years old...shouldn't I have this by now? No...? Okay, then. I also really want a donut right now.

Enjoying... our espresso machine. We got it out of storage, and have been making all sorts of yummy espresso drinks, like mochas and pumpkin spice lattes. And by "we" I really mean Steve, our resident barista/mixologist.

Reading... A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin. The Song of Ice & Fire saga of murder, seduction, and power has been eating away at all my free time. I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys good fantasy fiction.

Wondering... if it's time to buy new shoes. My well-loved black flat shoes are on their last days; they are fraying, and the inside padding is starting to break off. The unclutterer and simplicity lover in me wants to make do with the several other pairs of shoes I own. But part of me has a strong desire to go on a search for some versatile, comfy new black shoes that can work with any outfit. Dilemmas, dilemmas.

Watching... Top Chef, Parenthood, Once Upon a Time, and Up All Night. Is anyone else watching Up All Night, the new show starring Maya Rudolph, Christina Applegate, Will Arnett? It's hilarious.

So what's new with you all? Share a verb or two of your own in the comments.

Caribbean Vacation

2011-11-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

Our Caribbean trip was all kinds of amazing. We spent a week aboard a Carnival cruise ship, and visited six different islands. On the way to San Juan, Puerto Rico (where we were to board the ship), we flew first class. Yup, it's as awesome as people say it is.

The various islands were spectacular. Our general plan for each stop was this: wear swim suits all day long, hang out at a great beach, drink a tropical cocktail (usually rum punch), and walk around town and experience some of the local people and foods. It was a good plan.

In the evenings, we'd hop back on the cruise ship, and enjoy a long night of elegant dinner, dancing, and comedy shows. The food was incredible, and I think I may have eaten my weight in melting chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream.

The best part of the trip, though, was simply being with my husband. With our current life of parenting, different jobs, and other responsibilities, it was truly a luxury to spend extended, fun time together. We talked about our hopes for our future, laughed together, and just enjoyed being partners and friends.

Halloween

2011-11-03T17:08:00.000-07:00

We're back from our cruise in the Caribbean! It was everything we had hoped for - restful, fun, and adventurous. I'll post some photos from the trip soon.

Meanwhile, Aaron spent the week with Steve's parents. He had a great time with them, and got to celebrate Halloween with a visit to the pumpkin patch, and his first trick-or-treating with his cousin Kaitlyn.

Away on Vacation

2011-10-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

In celebration of our five-year wedding anniversary, Steve and I are jetting away tomorrow to the Caribbean for a week-long cruise. Steve's amazingly generous parents are having Aaron stay with them. Let's hear it for the grandparents! And for my husband, who scores great travel deals and coordinates all the details!

An entire glorious week with zero kids, no responsibilities, very few plans, lots of sunny weather, dressing up for fancy dinners, exploring six different islands, having spontaneous adventures, leisurely reading on the sun deck, late-night dancing, tropical drinks, sleeping in until whenever we want, uninterrupted conversations, and enjoying my ever-so-awesome husband.

I am so excited, my eyes have been bulging out of their sockets, and I've been literally dreaming of lying on a warm beach in Barbados.

I'll be back in a week, all rested and beachy-brown. See you soon!

Hearty Lentil & Bacon Soup

2011-10-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite ways to welcome the fall season is by making soup. I have already put our Dutch oven and Crock Pot to good use, and made several different soups and stews.

Most recently, we enjoyed this lentil and bacon soup.

Let's be honest. Lentils are not very glamorous. But paired with a good dose of bacon, lentils are elevated to new heights with this soup. That just goes to prove how fantastic bacon is, and the primary reason why I probably will never become a vegetarian.

The soup also packs a nutritional punch, with all the hearty vegetables. After about 40 minutes of simmering, this soup was a filling and nourishing meal (even enjoyed by my picky eater 2-year-old!).

Hearty Lentil & Bacon Soup (adapted from Epicurious)

print this recipe

cup chopped onion
cup chopped celery
cup chopped carrot
slices bacon, chopped
teaspoons minced garlic
cups (or more) canned low-salt chicken broth
cups dried lentils
large fresh thyme sprigs, chopped

1 bay leaf

                
                Heat a Dutch oven (or large pot) to medium-high heat. Stir in bacon until it browns. Add onion, celery, carrot and garlic. Stir for 2 minutes. Reduce heat to 
medium-low; cover and cook until vegetables are tender, about 7 minutes.
 Uncover; add 7 cups broth, lentils, thyme and bay leaf and bring to 
boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered until lentils are tender, 
stirring occasionally, about 45 minutes. Discard bay 
leaf. Thin soup with more broth, if desired. Season soup to taste with salt and pepper. Serves 10-12.

Life-Giving & Life-Draining Things

2011-10-17T12:30:00.000-07:00

Every night (or at least on most nights), I take a few minutes to reflect on my day. Usually I do this as I lie in bed, before falling asleep. Two questions I consider are:

1) What was life-giving today?
2) What was life-draining today?

As I've practiced this nighttime ritual, I've become more aware of the rhythms and flow my life. I've recognized the things that tire me and energize me. This reflection habit also helps me to review my day, pay attention to emotions, practice gratitude, and be aware of the larger themes of my life. More and more, I am learning about what brings deep joy to my life, and creating space to experience those things in the midst of work, rest and family.

Life-Giving Things

Taking a nap
Going outside for a walk
Exercise
Family time with my husband and son
Doing one thing at a time
Playing hide-and-go-seek with my son
Time with my inner-most circle of friends
Cooking and baking
Getting at least 8 hours of sleep
Massaging my shoulders and neck
Blogging
Meeting with my spiritual director
Reading fiction
Going out on a date with my husband
Taking a hot bath
Joining or guiding others in their pursuit of God
Spontaneous dance parties
Gardening
De-cluttering and simplifying
Visiting the farmer's market

Life-Draining Things

Picking up clutter and mess around the house
Comparing myself to others
Advertisements
Taking a trip to the post-office
Multitasking
Having more than one or two appointments/meetings on any given day
Sitting in traffic
Joyless, complaining, or self-focused people
Shopping malls
Waking up to the sound of garbage trucks at 6:30am

What are some of the life-giving or life-draining things in your life?

Why I Don't Run Marathons

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

I am surrounded by runners. My husband has run in several marathons (in fact, that's where we met each other - at the LA Marathon. But that's another story.). Steve ran in the Long Beach 1/2 Marathon this past weekend, which was an incredible accomplishment after a double-surgery on his knee just over a year ago. A few close friends have recently finished marathons or triathlons. My brother and dad are currently training for the Honolulu Marathon.

I frequently get asked, "So when are you going to run a marathon?" My immediate answer to this question is "never."

For the record, I am physically active. I enjoy exercise and activity, and keep a strict workout routine. A marathon, however, just isn't something I am remotely interested in. I do realize that saying I will never do something is a strong, definitive statement. If, by some chance, I come across a compelling reason for me to run a marathon, then fine; I'm always willing to change my mind. But until that happens, here are my top reason why I don't plan on running a marathon:

I'm not competitive enough. My competitive drive already gets sapped in Words With Friends.
The thought of ingesting an energy gel packet scares me.
I don't feel like paying a $100 fee for extended physical torture.
After running a mere one mile, I begin to hate myself and everyone around me. Who knows what I'll be like at mile 26.
One word: chafing.
I'm afraid that if some cheering bystander yells something annoyingly encouraging like, "Keep going, you're almost there! Don't quit!", I'll have the uncontrollable urge to punch him or her in the face.
I've already endured the lengthy pain and agony of pushing a human out of my body. In the end of that, I won a baby. Somehow, receiving a medal and an aluminum foil space cape doesn't seem very rewarding.
I hate running. From what I hear, running is a key component to a successful marathon. Therefore, me being a marathoner doesn't seem likely.