VEGness

on the road again.

2012-03-11T14:35:00.001-07:00

Greetings from the Casinos! Last week, Jams and I had a little weekend get-away in Laughlin, Nevada to celebrate Chris and Lizzy's birthdays -fun! We stayed at the Aquarius Resort and Casino... yes, this is where I won $1,000 on the Wizard of Oz Penny Slot last year (This year, not so lucky) there year we left with a measly 45 cents...!

We spent the entire weekend gambling, eating, playing caveman keno, drinking, more slot machines and of course, partying! Yay! My only gripe - it smells like rotten smoke - everywhere! It's been a little under a year since I quit smoking and I swear, the scent of smoke just gets stronger and stronger. When I was a smoker, I actually would get super excited when I could smoke in public! Especially in casinos... I could sit at a table for hours, and regardless of how much anxiety I got from that way-too-big-of-a-bet rush, it was totally "acceptable" to light up and keep throwing my money across the table. Now, I am the girl with my scarf over my nose, disgusted with that older person sitting next to me at the penny slots with a barely there cigarette hanging out of their mouth and another two packs of smokes stacked up next to the machine to keep the chain going. Yikes, I might just turn into an old grump if I don't watch it...

With all this travelling we have been doing, I have had to get quite creative with my food choices. It's not easy to eat healthy. Fact. It's even harder to eat healthy when you are not home. Fact. Aside from my brown rice cakes and seaweed strips that were packed in the back seat for the trip, I have been left with slim pickins when it comes to "dining" on-the-go. When the salad bar looks questionable, I'm left with hash browns, toast and pasta. I can feel the starch expanding my body, ew so gross. This leaves me with my "detox" plan. Water only. Green tea if I'm feeling sleepy in the morning. Granola for breakfast, salad for lunch and I'm only eating dinner if I am completely famished. OK, yes, I'm joking! But seriously, it's time to get super strict for a little bit on what goes into this body... at least until I don't feel like I need to "suck in" while buttoning my pants...

Anyway, we had a great time! Sunday was a beautiful day to drive for four hours with the top down. Despite my sunscreen attempt, my forehead is still pealing and my nose looks like Rudolph. Oh, the gripes of driving a convertible. I should really stop complaining, I know :)

remember when...

2012-03-01T12:20:00.000-08:00

Every once in awhile I question life, what I am doing and the choices I make. I think this pushes me to be stronger and helps keep me stimulated. Some choices are easy, others take lots of thought. Sometimes we have to weigh out the options before we make a final decision because every action we take will eventually have a reaction. I am always a thinker and analyze many outcomes in my head... pretty much about everything. Sometimes I wish I were not this way because I often over analyze a lot of things.

Whether we make the "right" choice or not, every experience plays a part in our journey and can be learned from. I will sporadically think about what my life would be like if I had done things a little different. As Jams would say to me, "Would of, should of and could of are the three worst things you can think about. It doesn't matter what you could, should or would have done, it's what you did. Keep looking forwards, not backwards." Geez, so true!

Well, I think that sometimes we don't realize the importance of experience until afterwards. It's kind of like when you were growing up and your parents would tell you, "Someday, you'll thank me for this. I'm teaching you a lesson!" Ugh, really. Sad but true, they were right... (did you hear that Mom!)

People are awesome too. We meet people all the time. Interacting, chatting, doing business - we are constantly communicating. Many people we encounter throughout our lives come and go. But there are certain people who inspire us to be better and push ourselves. People who believe in us in that moment that we don't believe in ourselves. It's because of those feel-good people and feel-good experiences that we look back. Memories are made and sometimes never forgotten. This is why we take lots of pictures and meet up with old friends to reminisce about the good old times. And I know it's not just me; we all have those moments where we wish we could go back and relive something again.

We can't though. Each memory and experience builds on itself and if you think about it, without all of those things, we would not be the strong and amazing creatures we are today. Each memory does serve a purpose. That purpose is so we can reflect back and remember why we choose the path we are on :)

doggies and diego.

2012-02-27T22:20:00.001-08:00

Wow, what a fun weekend! Jams and I got up obnoxiously early on Saturday and took the pugs to Huntington Beach Dog Beach. They luved it...

It was maybe a bit too early though... the tide was still in forcing us to walk through some rough waters. Poor little Peanut almost drown! Good thing she was wearing her harness so I could grab her and save her!

We worked up quite an appetite and decided before we gave the dogs a bath we would need some food. Yum! Breakfast Sandwiches!

Yummy Breakfast Sandwiches

by Madame Calcagno

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients (serves 2)

Hashbrowns
Pieces of Vegan Sausage
Lettuce
Tomato, Sliced
Portobello Mushrooms, Sliced
Veganaise
Avocado

Instructions

Cook hashbrowns and sausage according to package. I use Trader Joe's frozen hashbrowns and they usually cook in about 10 minutes.

I then sauteed the portobello mushrooms with a little bit of oil.

If you are an egg lover, cook the eggs up to your liking.

I made my sandwhich on cracked wheat sourdough, but you can use whatever bread you like. Jams used a bagel for his creation.

Layer the final ingredients on your choice of bread and BAM! Breakfast is served!

After breakfast, it was off to the showers. The dogs were filthy! After their grease bath the other night under the barbecue and now the sand is everywhere; a shower was not even an option!

Before we knew it, it was afternoon... we had to get moving! Our friends were already having fun celebrating Kristin's Birthday and we were missing margaritas!

Thankfully it was a short drive... Hello San Diego! We were staying at the Hilton in Gaslamp and checked in quickly so we could continue our adventure. We headed out to roam the streets with self made fun beverages in our sippy cups... we had some catching up to do.

We went to a little Mexican restaurant and ate a little food before heading back to the hotel to meet up with our friends. As soon as we got back, everyone was there! Yay! Happy Birthday Kristin♥

Jams made me an amazing Tree Dress for the party. Took him like three days! Thanks baby :)

Time to go dancing! We went to Onyx Room and saw our friend Renato Dinis spin... awesome!

What a great weekend having fun with friends :) We had so much fun we thought it might be best to come home and have a nice little Sunday Funday with the pugs... AKA nap day!

family dinner.

2012-02-24T19:05:00.001-08:00

Oh man, Happy Friday everyone! There is something about a Friday that makes it hard to focus... maybe it's the thought of weekend bliss :)

Or maybe it's because I'm reminded of how sweet wine tastes on my lips after a long work day. Last night, I gotta say, I indulged!

"Family Dinner" as we call it, is when we have our dear friends, Chris and Lizzy, over for dinner. This used to be a weekly ritual but over time it kind of fell off. So, last night, we decided it had been long enough! Time for Family Dinner!

We made some bean burgers (YUM!) and some seasoned fries... so amazing.

The pugs indulged as well... they walked into the kitchen looking all wet. We were all asking each other who spilled something on them. Come to find out, they found their way to the grease pan under the barbecue and had a little field day. Little rascals!

Look at Potato! He is licking the grease off of Peanut's head... gross and cute all at the same time.

Thankfully it is Friday, I just finished the dishes from last night and am now ready to enjoy my evening. TGIF!

yes to yoga.

2012-02-23T15:05:00.003-08:00

Wow, my whole body is in pain! Since we have been back from Florida, we have been getting up extra early to do a nice yoga work out.

I luv yoga. If you've never tired it, you should! It is great for your entire body and will really work your core. I always find that when I am actively doing yoga, my balance and posture are better and my energy is higher.

I would luv to tell you that this picture is me. It's not :) This is Shaina... an amazing soul *Muah!

Here's the problem... I am not a morning person. Trust me, when that alarm is going off the absolute last thing I am excited about is jumping out of bed to exercise. I am always the one to snuggle under the blankets with the pugs and beg for 10 more minutes... I will be planking in my slumber, thank you very much!

Side note: umm could the pugs take up any more of the bed?! Must be nice...

Once I get up, I am instantly happy that I did. Yoga is a great way to start the day. It gets the blood flowing and I as a result feel like I have so much more energy through out the day!

I luv that Jams and I are doing it together. It gives me that added motivation! Jams likes it too because I am so much happier in the morning... I have been making him breakfast every day! :)

a deeper connection.

2012-02-22T14:08:00.000-08:00

After spending a week with my grandparents, Nonny and Poppy, I realized that I need to make a better effort in communicating with my luved ones. Yes, I am the queen of Facebooking and can text all day but I have really started to lack in verbal communication. It is seldom that I pick up the phone and call a friend just to chat anymore!

Last week, while Nonny and Poppy were busy reading the newspaper and calling their friends to say hi and see how they're doing, I was checking Facebook to see what my 'friends' were up to and was updating my status so anyone who cared can read it, like it and comment on it. Can you say, disconnected?!

I got to share Nonny's 79th birthday with her last week. This was very special for me. On this day, I was getting ready and could hear her in the other room reading something. Curious (like always) I walked out and noticed she was reading a birthday card she had received. I sat down and listened; it was a really nice card from one of her friends. After she finished reading it, she picked up another card, opened it and began reading out loud. I looked over and she had about a five inch stack of cards that she had received for her birthday. All telling her to have a great day and that they luved her and appreciated her as their friend. I was blown away. I have never seen that many cards sent to one person in one day. Talk about inspiration.

I was asking her who sent her all these cards and basically you name it, they sent a card. Her kids, nieces, life long friends, new friends, neighbors - oh! and her neighbors were bringing her flowers and small little gifts - it was so sweet. It was like a world wide memo went out that it was her birthday and she was soaking it all in.

I was blown away by all of this. I started thinking about how detached I was from most of my friends and family. I have been totally absorbed in my own world and instantly wanted to reach out. I have made it a personal goal of mine to talk with my family more and pick up the phone to chat with my friends (yes, I will be calling you!), so be ready. I am going to be reconnecting with the outside world!

...is your phone ringing yet? :)

hello florida!

2012-02-21T11:03:00.000-08:00

Long time no talk! I know, I know... I let vacation get the best of me! But, don't you worry - I'm back! And all I can say is vacation was awesome! We just got back from the Sunshine State... Florida; sunburns and all!

I moved to California five years ago (remember!) and when I left, one of my reassurances to my family was that I would be back for the holidays, no matter what. Obviously, now I am in a relationship; so Jams and I had "the talk" about holidays and we both found it important to be together. Since his work didn't allow him to take any time off around Christmas, I was stuck between a rock and a hard place to make the decision of maintaining that tradition or creating my own. It was a personal struggle of mine to make that decision. I came up with a solution that I thought would work for everyone. I would go home before Christmas for a few days so I could see my family and then spend the holiday with Jams! A win-win! Well, part of my solution was to also go visit my grandparents (let's call them Nonny & Poppy) in Florida sometime in the Spring. So... here we are!

All Jams keep talking about before the trip was how he couldn't wait to have a mojito. I swear as long as I have known him, I have never seen him drink one but he swears now that they are his favorite... he's so cute :)

It's always different when you spend time with family when they are in their element. We really got to capture the moments and see how they live day to day. I mean, come on! Look at my grandparents! Pushin' 80 and they are more active than we are. Riding bikes everyday, doing water aerobics in the pool... we realized that we definitely need to step it up!

When I would go visit as a kid, we would always go to the big Flea Market in Daytona Beach. Look at this place! It's HUGE!!! They have food vendors everywhere, and lots of little knickknacks that you impulsively need. They also have an amazing produce section with all the local fruits and veggies... YUM!!!

It's a good thing we only had one suitcase and hardly any room to bring home souvenirs because these were super cute... I would have bought way too many!!!

I was very spoiled growing up (yes, I said it) and we went to Florida at least twice a year. I take for granted the small stuff and probably don't appreciate things the same as someone who hasn't been as fortunate. This being said, Jams has never been to Disney World. Eeeek!!! We had to go.

And just to add... I definitely won on Buzz Lightyear! I never usually win so I was stoked! Look at that concentration!

I absolutely luv It's A Small World. I probably took 100+ pictures in there (I will spare you). We got lots of cool and unique arts and crafts ideas!

I thoroughly enjoyed Tom Sawyer's Island and the bridges I had to go across. Yes, I was acting like a five year old.

LOOK AT ALL THESE STROLLERS. Sorry to yell, but seriously?! No wonder Disney always seems so crowded... half the walk ways are taken up with them!

And finally, per my sister's request :) we got a caricature! It actually came out pretty cute!

Family, Disney and Valentine's Day all in one week! Woah! This was our first Valentine's Day together! *Aw* I made Jams a special breakfast with all his favorite things... onions, eggs, mushrooms and peppers. Can you dig the tomato heart?!

Nonny and Poppy took us to dinner at The Garlic which was a very cool and yummy Italian restaurant near their condo. We had many drinks and many laughs. It was awesome to spend Jams and my first Valentine's Day together with my grandparents who were spending their 64th together. Let this be a reminder to all of us that true luv is real.

It just so happened to work out perfectly that my Mom was in Florida too! Her and my step-dad Will have a condo down on Singer Island which happens to be just a few hours south of us. Road trip!

Jams made Will a "Work1n" tie to promote his new song Work1n... keep your eyes peeled for these, you might be seeing lots of them in an upcoming music video (foreshadowing...?)!

Anyway, the water was beautiful. It reminded me of Hawaii, you could see clear down to your feet! And it wasn't that cold either!

The last night we were there, we went to a restaurant called Seasons 52. It is an organic restaurant and the cool thing is that their menu changes weekly to highlight the freshest ingredients - brilliant! It was simply delish!

Sad to leave the beaches and family, but ready to come home and see the puppies, we left our eight day haven.

Now that we are home, I am busy planning our next adventure! San Diego, here we come!!! :)

taking the plunge.

2012-02-09T10:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, I never thought I that these words would ever come out of my mouth. I am going back to school! My entire life was either spent being told I was suppose to go to college or convincing everyone that I am not going back (post a very sad attempt).

I never liked school. My old besties will tell you I was the first one to bring up skipping class just to have fun. I did what I needed to get by and disappointed my parents a lot through the process. As I got older, I decided maybe I should get a steady job and make some money to support myself. I thought I could make it by fighting hard to get what I want and earn an honest living by being a good person. Well, although a large part of be believes that, I have decided to go back and get an education. Hats off to you if you are sitting there thinking, "Finally! I told you so!"

But I have a secret for you... I am not doing this for anyone but myself. I am not going back to be a surgeon or a tax attorney. I'm not going back for business or management. I am going for Culinary Arts! My passion! Cooking! Yayy!

I have spent the last few weeks chatting and meeting with my new friend Karys with whom I ask millions of questions to - and she is fabulous! After taking a tour of the school and going over the program, there is not a doubt in my mind that this is my next chapter in life. You know what I always say, it is never to late to follow your dreams :)

let's talk about it.

2012-02-07T17:53:00.000-08:00

"What do you want.... What do you want!!!! WHAT DO YOU WANT!?!?!?" Imagine these four words being screamed in your face over and over and over. It makes you start to think, well what do I want? The more you think about it, the more unsure you are. Kinda crazy, huh... You might think - I want a new car. I want to buy a house. I want to travel the world. Yea, these things are all great; but after you get them you are left with the same question. The more "things" you have, the harder this question gets to answer. I know that I just want to be happy. Seems simple enough, but this is probably one of the hardest things to find. It's not something you can go pick up at the store, order online or borrow from a friend. This is something that comes from within. And the only person that can give it to you is yourself.

Let's talk a little about expectations. Do you ever do things for people and in return expect them to do something for you? Well, you get what you give. That's a tricky little phrase, isn't it. You give = you get, right? Nope, not always. When you give to someone, you can't assume that you will always get something back in return. In the way of the evil world we live in, most people like to take, take, take and take more. I know this because I am a very giving and nurturing person. I do it because it gives me that feel good feeling knowing that I can help someone and make them smile. However, this does have it's disadvantages too. Sometimes this "giving" comes with an expectation. It's not even that I expect something in return either. Most of the time it is a need for appreciation. I mean, what is the point of doing a kind deed if no one freaking cares, right?! Ha, there I go with my silly expectations again!

If you are constantly expecting something in return you will always be disappointed. And the tricky thing about disappointment is that it is something that we subconsciously give ourselves. As soon as we start expecting anything from anyone - BAM - disappointment. Our expectations tend to be higher for someone else than they are for ourselves. Why is that? Maybe it's that shiny pedestal or high horse that we like to ride on ;) Just try and remember that we are happier creatures without having expectations! So throw those stupid expectations out the window and enjoy life because the only time we are ever living is in this moment!

welcome, haters.

2012-02-01T12:22:00.000-08:00

What is with people who are so against being happy and healthy?! I totally understand that everyone has choices, remember lifestyle changes? But come on. To be SO closed minded that the thought of even just trying something that is better for you - and the planet! might just "make you sick" - come on. I am not a confrontational person and trust me, I am not one to push my beliefs onto anyone else. But, the fact that you clicked on this link was simply your choice so now that you're here, let's talk about it - I'm intrigued too! :)

Let's start with this... what is it about the word "Vegetables" that makes people cringe? I just don't get it! As soon as you add this word to anything, people are quick to shy away and turn down food... no matter how freaking hungry they are! What the heck!

Case in point. We shot a music video last Saturday (for Jams new song "Luvin' U" featuring ME!) and usually when we do shoots or events, we run to Costco and pick up platters to feed the crew for the day. Easy Peasy. Well, this particular day, I decided to make my chicken salad and stir-fry to promote the VEGness! Everyone was eating it up... pun intended ;) Later in the night, the stir-fry was referred to as vegetable stir-fry and instantly there was hesitation on eating it. "Eh, I'm not that hungry" - really. Well why don't you just go eat some stir-fry. Let me show you what it looks like. After close inspection, not only did this person eat it, they actually went back for seconds and before I knew it, the stir-fry was gone.

Side note: I used gardien chicken and no one knew the difference. Hehehee... take that meat eaters!!! Just kidding :) I guess from now on we just need to omit the word "vegetable" from our phrasing. When something is wonderfully yummy AND good for you, it should be a win-win! Come on peeps!

On the flip, I'll be real. Don't think I'm getting off on salads, because I'm not. I have never been a huge vegetable person. I was the kid at the dinner table feeding my dog the peas and slipping my grandma my unwanted green beans when my parents weren't looking. I was the one who spit my asparagus into my napkin while pretending to wipe my face. You might be thinking to yourself, well why in God's name would you become vegan then? It's just weird, and coming from someone who doesn't like vegetables, it doesn't add up - so what gives? Why the switch?

Well, let me explain something to you my sweet friends. I didn't decide to be a vegetarian or go vegan so I could sit here and tell you why it's awesome. Nor did I do it to be 'right' and instill my beliefs on you. I stopped eating meat simply because it wasn't good for me. What was hard for me was giving up dairy (my FAVORITE food in the whole entire world is cheese). The reason I made the change was because I was overweight, wanted to lose weight and nothing else worked. To fulfill my crazy cheese cravings, I figured out ways to make vegetables in a way that appealed to me. Where I didn't feel like I was sacrificing flavor and substance. Now that I replaced those 'bad things' with healthier choices, I am able to eat whatever I want and my weight stays the same. Once I made the switch I started researching more and that just reconfirmed the decisions I had made... and those things I learned keep me strong everyday.

Oh! Sorry haters, let's get back to you. I get it. I created a lifestyle that allows me to eat amazing food that is good for me and good for the planet. Not only am I happy about all of it, I share it with you to help open your eyes to make the world we live in a better place - and you never know, you might be happier too believing in something. But the fact of the matter is that you haters go out of your way to hate so much it just proves that you are paying attention. I don't care if we're on the same team or not. Keep listening and keep hating. This is the beauty of life - each of us get to make our own decisions and believe in what ever we want! My question to you is why hate when we can luv? I am the change I want to see in the World and you can be too. This place is full enough of ugly, negative people. If you're wondering what your purpose is, take another breath and realize you're alive - and smile... that's purpose enough for me :)

breathe.

2012-01-24T15:46:00.000-08:00

*Sigh... the struggles of life. I always used to say, I feel bad for those people who have a hard time with day to day life. I believe that sickness is created in the mind and that as long as you have the strength to over power it, you're all good. Well, recently, I was finding myself to be one of these people who got too much in my head and found myself having an internal war. "Stop the negativity!" "This not you!" "Um! Be Happy!" I quickly discovered that just like everyone else, I am human and have lots of emotions - that often are left neglected.

When you start to feel like a complete crazy person, the last thing you want to do is talk to the people you luv about it. Then they think you're crazy and next thing you know, you're in the nut house surrounded by a lot more crazy people. This was the point that I had gotten to... which is really scary.

It took me four hundred and sixty eight days to determine that I was unhappy with the way my life was going. I talk about making lifestyle changes and doing really awesome things. But, I have lacked emphasis on doing things for yourself. Eating healthy makes me happy because I know that I am doing good for my body. Of course I luv my friends and family and they make me happy! But, I have to think about the whole picture... this is a quote I often reflect back to... one of my favs!!!

"There is no point in being gorgeous if your life is a mess. End your co-dependent relationships, quit your dead end job and ditch your toxic friends. This is your life!”-Skinny Bitch

That being said, I would like to welcome you to my new journey. I have been pressing the play button and hummed along to what I thought was the soundtrack to my life (of course, pausing when appropriate). Now, it's time to make my own music... and dance!!! I am a believer that you can have it all and that the only person holding you back is yourself. Consider me to be the girl grabbing life by the bull horns... Until next time ;)

a taste of the farmers market.

2012-01-19T11:47:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful morning! Look how pretty the sky was! Oh my gosh, what a wonderful day to go to the Farmer's Market!

If you live in Southern California, then you have probably been to the Grove on Fairfax and 3rd. If you haven't, GO! It's so awesome, they have amazing fresh produce and tons of different foods from all around the world. Look!

I absolutely luv walking through and finding little treasures to take home as souvenir's. Check out this fabulous vintage Barbie bag that I found, and of course had to have :)

They also have the best Gourmet store... this is where I bought my first Coconut Oil ever! By the way, it's the best oil to cook with... yes, even better than olive oil. I got this little piece of Great information from Skinny Bitch - when most oils are heated at high temperatures, it changes their molecular structures, causing free radicals (HUH!?) - Basically, free radicals have been linked to heart disease and cancer. Get smart :) Get coconut oil :)

For you animal luvers, check out the doggie store! Aside from these adorable "PUGZ" for doggie feet, they have little treats for your furry friends and cute little outfits!!! Aww!!! Yea, you know I went home with all the goods for my pups.

Not into the whole Farmer's Market thing? Well, step outside to great shops and restaurants! We had the best time exploring and shopping!

And eating too :)

After lunch, it was off to the studio to make some sweet music! To make this day even better, we passed 2 gardein billboards within a one mile radius on the way! This makes me smile :) GO GREEN!!!

And the perfect ending to a perfect day, we recorded a luv song together :) Stay tuned, this will be coming soon!!!

flashback.

2012-01-18T16:13:00.000-08:00

This may seem really random, but have you seen the move You Again? I was rummaging through my Netflix the other day and came across this comedy and was in the mood for something light and funny so this one won. It was kind of corny, as most chick flicks are, but it did have a good message that brought me back...

Before I start my ranting, let me catch you up and get you on the same page. Basically, nerdy girl gets picked on in high school by bully girl. They go separate ways in life... nerdy girl gets called back into town for brother's wedding. Brother is marrying bully girl. Typical! Through the movie, all nerdy girl wants is acknowledgement from bully girl... apologies for being a bully. But bully girl does not give any indication that she even remembers her and the war begins - you want the rest, go watch the movie! It's actually really funny :)

My story... I had a great time growing up. If you know me from back then, you know I was all about having a good time. Sometimes so much of a good time that it was at the expense of someone else. I luved my friends more than anything and spent as much time with them as possible! But, I was not always the nicest girl. Much of my high school and college days were spent convincing my friends to skip class, talk smack and chasing boys - my favorite! Back then I believed those were "the days" and I definitely enjoyed them to the fullest. Looking back now, I probably hurt a lot of people in my path and those bad decisions that I made impacted a lot of people. It was my own immaturity and insecurities that really shine through now when I reflect back. Unfortunately, I can not go back in time and change my behavior. In fact, those days will always be a part of me and to anyone that I ever offended or hurt, I am very sorry. I often have this fear when I go back to my home town that I will run into someone that will remember something horrible about me from my past and throw it in my face. A lot of the inspiration behind my transformation was to start over and be a good person.

I made a promise to myself and to the world a long time ago that I would do good and be good. As Gandhi says, "Be the change you want to see in the world" ...I believe that each of us have the power to change. I talk a lot about being healthy and making lifestyle changes. Positivity is a lifestyle change. Confidence is a lifestyle change. It's not all about what you eat (...although it is a big part of it!) or how you look, it's how you feel! It's how you feel about yourself; it's about how you feel about others. Your compassion, your luv of live and the aura you put into the universe. Know that smiling at a stranger can make their day brighter. Paying it forward is not only good for your own Karma, it makes others feel good too. When they feel good... that will be passed onto someone else... and someone else... and the domino effect continues!

I know now that I am true and good. All of my bad choices in life have resulted in a lot of experiences, both good and bad, that helped mold me into who I am today. Thankfully, I have the opportunity everyday to be a good person... and so do you :)

saturday in the city of angels.

2012-01-16T10:38:00.000-08:00

Since Jams and I started as friends, we kind of missed out on the whole honeymoon stage of dating. Our lives are super crazy and we are always working on some sort of project. I mean, we go out to dinner occasionally, and take days off to hang by the beach... but the whole "wining and dining" part was skipped. As a romantic, I like going to amazing restaurants with a view... have some wine... enjoy some great food and spend that quality time with the ones I luv.

I had read about Yamashiro in Hollywood and just knew that Jams would luv it there. Between the history and the Japanese food how could he not! I did a little more research and decided that I wanted this to be a surprise. I made reservations and told him not to make plans... I was taking him out for the night! To make the night even better, I made reservations as the Hollywood Hills Hotel so we wouldn't have to drive home... no one wants to drive home after dinner and drinks! I put together a little scavenger hunt of clues so he would have some hints on where we were going and what we were doing :)

So Saturday night, we headed up to Hollywood Hills and had the best time! He was super excited and really surprised. He kept saying throughout the night "This is so cool!" which made it that much better. I would definitely recommend trying this spot out if you are in the Los Angeles area, the food is spectacular!

speak.

2012-01-14T09:57:00.000-08:00

This week started off super amazing... my mind was open, my brain was a sponge for knowledge and life was great!!! Then I got a call that someone very close to me was in the hospital for something pretty serious - My Dad. He had blood clots in his lungs - again - and was lucky to be alive - again. In one instant, my mind flipped the switch, and my positivity walked out the door. I was feeling anxious and nervous and sad... hearing news like that makes you think of the worst things that could possibly happen and it's really scary.

After I wrapped my head around what was going on, all I wanted to do was talk to my dad. Tell him how much I luved him and how I was there for him. Make sure he understood how much I appreciated him and everything he has ever done for me. How sorry I was for disappointing him when I was younger and explain how he's been my hero and how he has had such a big influence on me in my life. Luckily for me, I have the opportunity to still tell him all those things. He is on the road to recovery and his journey is far from over.

I believe 100% that it is so important to talk about how you feel. Whether it's happy, sad or some mixed emotion in the middle, the worst thing you can do it hold it inside of you. Sometimes things happen and the chance to say what you mean is not there. Cherish the people you luv and embrace life... one moment could change anything.

lifestyle changes.

2012-01-10T16:28:00.000-08:00

Have you ever tried to do something you never thought you could do? Some of you might have. If you succeeded, you probably shared with your friends or family because you were proud of yourself. That's good! You should share your accomplishments! You never know who will be inspired by your story! Have you tried something and it didn't go so well? Thought you could do it, but then ended up gave up? That's ok too. It's in those trying times that we don't quite make it that we find the path to success. Keep trying, because your mind is the most powerful thing... and if you believe you can do something - you can.

Jams vowed on the day I stopped smoking that he would not eat meat anymore. This, to me, seemed like an unequal change of lifestyle. Um, do you know how hard it is to quit smoking!? I have tried, like, a bazillion freaking times and it has never worked! Plus, I'm already vegan so how hard could it possibly be to stop eating meat? I mean, come on... I was already cooking for him so it seemed like an easy transition. No more fast food... no more steaks... no more free buffet at Bajas... no more taco truck... no... No... NO!!!!

When you make a big change in your life, your mind automatically switches to the "I can't have this" or "I can't do that" mindset. You think about the "I cant's" and it's tough. Unless you have something inside of you reminding you WHY you are making these changes, it is very hard to stick with it and that is why most people relapse. Look at alcoholics or drug addicts... those addictions are SO bad that they have centers for these people to go to for support for the withdrawals. And even after a significant amount of time, there is no saying if they will stay sober. That's why it is very important to find the WHY when making a big change. Keep people around you that will support you and remember those "whys" so you can reflect on them in those times of temptation!

While we are on this topic, let's discuss this whole thing about men and meat. A man's mentality tends to think - Strong, Hunter... Carnivore! Many believe that a REAL man eats meat. Being a woman, I never thought about this too much when Jams stopped eating meat. It really didn't come into my mind until he started communicating with his friends and family what he was doing. Everyone gave him a hard time and to make matters worse - of course, it was my fault. Thankfully, he IS a strong man and also a very knowledgeable man. He had his reason why he was changing his eating habits, and believe it or not, it was not my doing at all. He watched this movie, called Forks Over Knives, and saw certain health benefits not just for himself but also for some family members and people he knew that might benefit from changing a few bad habits.

Well, in the end - to each's own. We all have this wonderful thing called choices. Whether we make good ones or bad ones there is always something to gain. Let's just hope when we do make those bad decisions we remember those experiences for the next time we see that same fork in the road.

You can do whatever you put your mind too... I still can't believe that it's been almost a year and we're still smoke & meat free :)

poker night.

2012-01-09T10:56:00.000-08:00

On Friday night, the west coast part of the family came over for dinner. I was super excited to have everyone at our house and wanted to make sure it was a special night. Jams and I worked hard to get everything tidied up and prepared an amazing menu for our very important guests!

Whenever you know you're having people over, there is always that big question... what should we make for dinner? Not all of my family is veg so I definitely think about what I can make for them, that they will luv, that is not made from animals. I am not one to sit here and push my beliefs on anyone else, but if I can make them a vegan meal and have them enjoy it, than I have made them aware of healthier choices. We decided to go with some black bean burgers to match the theme... poker night in the saloon. I found an amazing vegan recipe on Daily Garnish and we went to work!

It is always nice to have a helper in the kitchen! I am very grateful to have Jams by my side. He does all the stirring for me and in this particular case, he molded all the burgers into perfect little circles!

I prepared everything the night before so that things would run a bit smoother when it got close to crunch time. As a side, we choose to make roasted potatoes with rosemary, thyme and sage as well as crispy roast asparagus. Both were very easy to make and came out really yummy.

Everything was coming together... but where were our guests!? Oops, looks like they're running late! Better open up some wine and give Jams a beer while we wait :)

Everyone arrived, and we had a great time! Food was great too :) and to make the night EVEN better... Jams won at Poker! I'm not sure my Dad or brother liked that too much, but we got to all spend time together and that was all I wanted.

Sometimes I take for granted the fact that my family lives so close. I try and make an effort to go see them but it's so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. Words from the wise... try and see the ones you luv as much as possible because, unfortunately, tomorrow is never promised to any of us.

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! Happy Monday!

the big O.

2012-01-08T12:10:00.000-08:00

What's the big deal with Organics? They cost more money, they don't always look the best on the shelf and if I actually decide to buy organic, how do I know that they REALLY are organic? Well, lucky for you, I am going to tell you :)

Who doesn't like a home cooked meal in a slow cooker? Whether it's a stew, a chili or a brisket the longer you let it sit, the better it is. Think of this next time you're at the grocery store. Those organic products you see have been soaking on the slow cycle in a great marinade - the good wholesome Earth! Because they have had time to absorb that carbon-rich soil, they have had time to develop thicker cell walls which gives them a more concentrated flavor. Studies show that organic products are loaded with more antioxidants and vitamins than chemically grown products.

That's not enough for you? Ok, well organic goods are biodegradable and come straight from the ground - let's get rid of all those middle men! When you buy organic, you are limiting the food's travel from production to your kitchen. Not only that, but consider protecting yourself, and your family, from those nasty chemicals and pollutants that are used to grow so many consumer products these days. Keep in mind too - children are said to be more vulnerable to the effects of pesticide residue than adults...

Check your labels too... I am that chick that stands in the aisle reading every ingredient. If I don't know what something is, I don't put in my cart. This is very important because so many food companies try and trick us consumers with how they market their products. If something says that it's made with organic ingredients, you can be sure that maybe 70 percent is actually organic.

Geez, this is becoming a lot of work, huh. Just know, it's in your best interest to buy the most true and pure produce with 100 percent organic ingredients. Even though times are tough and a few dollars here and there add up, just be aware of what you're putting in your body. You are what you eat!

a pugs life.

2012-01-07T15:17:00.000-08:00

Only a pet owner can truly understand the luv between a dog and their owner. Before I had my own furry friends, I liked dogs... but now I think they are the most amazing little creatures! Sure, they bark at things and occasionally poop on the carpet... but anger causes people to bark at others once in awhile! And I could tell you some stories about people I know who have pooped in way worse places... but that is neither here nor there!

These furry little friends are my pugs, Peanut and Potato! Cute huh! They look sweet and innocent and they definitely luv to cuddle, but they have been known to get themselves in their share of trouble too... especially when the other kids, Spud, Tater & Pickle are around - instigators! :)

Let's take a trip down memory lane... once upon a pugs life, there was a cute little womanizer pug named Potato. He befriended his cute little roommate, AbbyCakes and they fell in luv. Aww! Sure, they fought over treats and argued occasionally, but at the end of the day, they would cuddle in their bed and snore a sweet pug snore in sync. Boy, did they go on lots of adventures together. They would accompany us to Sunday Funday, take long walks on HB Dog Beach and spend afternoons in the park. Watch their video here... they look so cute on those swings!!!

Potato and Abbycakes decided one day that it would be fun to run away together and go on a little surprise "honeymoon." This, of course, threw us off quite a bit. While they were out having fun roaming the streets of Huntington Beach, we were out putting fliers everywhere and frantically going door to door in search of them. Abbycakes had her litter just weeks prior to them getting out and was still nursing her babies. I sure felt bad for those little pups, they really needed their mom to take care of them! To make matters even worse, Potato and Abbycakes forgot to wear their handy-dandy collars with their names and phone numbers. We were devastated :( Thankfully, a nice little Taco Truck driver found these two begging for scraps. He decided to keep them for a couple days - probably thinking that the little perrito was prego with her sagging belly. After some bad behavior and lots of barking, he decided he was ready to give them back to us and we were thrilled!

The little puglets were so happy to have their mom and dad back, it was the cutest thing! Seeing them all play together and watch each other learn and grow was so amazing - I became very attached. They were getting bigger and more and more curious about the outside world. They ran around everywhere sniffing and climbing... it started to get a little bit harder to take care of them! It was almost time to let them go.

I'm sure you moms out there can understand how hard it must be to give up your kids! But the day eventually came, and we had to give the puppies to their new parents. It was a bittersweet day. As hard as it was for me to see them go, I got to see the looks on their new parents faces. Priceless! They were all so happy to have their new furry friends! I was very happy to see them all go to great homes. Thankfully, they all went to friends so I still see most of them pretty frequently :)

If you don't luv them yet, you will! These little munchkins will be making appearances throughout my blogs so be prepared to hear all about our endeavors together!

a new year. a new blog.

2012-01-05T14:38:00.000-08:00

Well, it only seems appropriate to begin my first official blog at the start of a brand new year! I'm not sure how this journey will go but I am very excited to be able to share my life with my family and friends - near and far! and anyone else interested in what I'm up to over here in beautiful Southern California.

As I sit here with the sunshine beating into the room, I feel spoiled! and also very sad for all my friends that are experiencing the heart of winter in upstate New York. Since I moved to California five years ago, each "winter" has been bliss! I hate to brag, but I hope all of you know, my door is always open if you need a little vaca from the cold.

Last year was amazing... I discovered the luv of my life, Kenjamin - or Jams, had been in front of me for quite some time. Yes, a best friend turned luver! Ah, I knew the moment I saw this picture :)

Him being a very talented artist and master of many different trades and me as the "master communicator" we have proven to be an unbeatable team. We embraced our unity and combined our powers throughout the year and did various photo shoots, music videos, fashion shows, events - the sky has been the limit! And don't you worry, there is much much more to were we will be going with all of that...Nothing but Greatness!

Our pug, Potato, who is now three, had five little puppies - the runt being the only girl of the litter and therefore, my new best friend Peanut. She has proven herself to be a tiny ball of fire with a little personality of her own. She luvs to play and cause a bit of mischief but how can you be mad at that little face...

My personal accomplishment of the year was quitting smoking. A dirty, dirty habit that I forever blame myself for. That being said, a slight shout out to all my friends in High School that believed me when I told them it was the cool thing to do... I am so sorry! Much of the year was adjusting my lifestyle to be a non-smoker and to this day, I have not had one drag (Yay me!). Hopefully throughout my posts, you smokers out there will be inspired to want to stop... believe me, you can't even begin to imagine how much time is wasted while smoking!

My passion in life is food. I have been vegetarian, pescitarian and I am now vegan. Changing the way I eat has in turn changed me for the better. I feel very fortunate to have the support from those around me. I am very thankful that Jams has joined me on the veg team (more on that to come!). It has made cooking easier and much more enjoyable when we can sit down and actually have the same thing on our plate! I have to say, there's nothing I luv more than the challenge of having our meat-eater friends over for dinner and serving them veg food! They are very quick to tell their opinion, but when they eat the food I cook them, they always enjoy it! Stay tuned for some amazing recipes and food pictures!

Now, I'm off to enjoy the beautiful outdoors :)