Ethan and Grace

Movin' on!

2010-08-08T01:16:00.000-07:00

Hello, trusty readers! Did you miss me? More than likely, your answer is no. Nonetheless, I wanted to keep you in the loop!

Last you heard, I was going to Italy. That is still happening - and it's really coming up! I leave on August 28th. I hope you'll consider following on my new blog, Grace Says Smile.

I may shift back to posting here when my stint abroad is over; I may not. Either way, this blog has had a great run. Thanks always for your readership and support!

♥

La vita e bella.

2010-05-22T10:30:00.000-07:00

As you may remember, I have committed to spending the Fall Quarter of my Junior year in Italy. I leave in August for a pre-orientation traveling seminar all throughout Greece and then will spend September through most of December living in Florence, Italy.

I've been spoiled by the fact that I chose to go to a university so close to home and Ethan and I happened just by chance to attend the same school. I've never been away from my life as I know it for too long. I guess you could say I'm a bit scared. The good news? My parents are coming to visit in October!

I realized recently I never shared Ethan's amazing birthday present for me on here. When we celebrated my birthday together, he came over looking like a dream with a sweet, sappy card in hand. In an adorable little speech, he told me the great news: he, too, is coming to visit me in Florence in November! I was so surprised and so touched that I threw my arms around him and cried right then and there. :]

For our anniversary, I surprised Ethan be arranging his hotel accommodations. He will be staying at a quaint little place within walking distance of the university I will be attending in Florence.

The outside of a little something I created for Ethan to tell him about my gift to him. Excuse the disproportional luggage tag; I removed his last name from this image. Anyway, one pulls on the handle to reveal a note inside that was far too gushy to post on the internet. ;]

I can't wait to see the people I live in a place that I'll hopefully come to love as well! So, life is beautiful. I'm excited to share my experiences preparing for and going to Italy with you in the coming months!

Mother dear.

2010-05-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

This is my adorable momma at age three.

My brother Tucker is an artist of sorts. He is really into installations and street art, but for Mother's Day this year, he pulled out all the stops to recreate my mom's baby picture...

My brother posing with the work. Notice all of the black paint under his fingernails?

He created a stencil out of her photo and then used a combination of black and white paints to recreate its textures.

Pretty cool, huh? ;]

Our anniversary, observed.

2010-05-20T09:50:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of activity around here, but life has been flying by. Happenings over the past month have included, but are not limited to, performing in a fantastic production of Eve Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues," preparing for this month's University production of "Thoroughly Modern Millie," finalizing my stay in Italy this Fall, and, not to mention, trying to stay afloat in a flood of schoolwork, as the school year is ending in a few weeks. Crazy!

Thank you all for your sweet well wishes on my post about my anniversary with Ethan! Because our anniversary fell on a Wednesday (I have rehearsals from about 5:30 to 10:30), we celebrated on Saturday. We enjoyed a fabulously massive dinner at Maggiano's Little Italy and made a quick stop at Kara's Cupcakes afterward. Yes, I felt it was necessary.

Love.

I don't know what's going on here.

I only posted this because it is such a novelty: a photo of me that I didn't take myself. In fact, Ethan took it, which is perhaps a miracle.

The most delicious of stuffed mushrooms.

The biggest hunk of lasagna I've ever seen. Mine.

The heaviest bowl of spaghetti in existence. Ethan's.

The tastiest vanilla ice cream.

By far, the best ice lemon cookies. EVER!

I hope you enjoyed that exercise in hyperbole. We had a fun night just spending time together, which is an opportunity hard to come by these days. Ethan is the best. And that's not hyperbole. ;] Sappiness over.

I wish I had more time to blog, but such is life. I've been answering some pretty deep questions over on my Formspring, if you're interested. I promise I'll have more exciting things for you to read within the next couple of weeks. :]

Happy two years to us.

2010-05-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

From my Formspring.

Celebrate good times.

2010-04-07T21:19:00.000-07:00

I love my friends and family, FYI.

For whatever reason, I have very few photos from my Saturday birthday celebration with friends and my Sunday Easter and birthday celebration with family. I take this as a sign that we were enjoying ourselves just too much to bother with cameras. So here are two snapshots from Sunday.

One of these things is not like the others.

A delicious sacher torte with raspberry filling courtesy of my dearest boyfriend's family.

On Monday I had classes. But on Monday night, my friends from college threw me a party - a throwback to our childhood. We dressed up like our former selves and had fun.

Luckily for me, my best friend Michelle was in town for the event!

Princess and average girl.

I feel like I shouldn't admit this, but I will: I was over half an hour late to my OWN PARTY. Anyway, it was not a surprise party but the party-goers decided to "surprise" me nonetheless. I promise there were more than four people there, by the way.

Birthday hugs from some of my friends!

In an amazing display of brilliance, dedication, and thoughtfulness, my friend Melissa baked about fifty cupcakes. In keeping with the childhood theme, some were multi-colored, frosted in neon, and each had a crazy candle or a little cutout on top. Belle of "Beauty and the Beast" is my favorite princess, so, naturally, that center cupcake is mine. :]

Me, blowing out the candles upon my arrival!

Molly, complete with super hero-status cape and sipping punch through a crazy straw, and me with a delicious cupcake.

Me and Blake!

Ah, yes. The best friends. <3

Overall, an amazing birthday celebrated with people I love. I'm twenty, you guys! :]

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead." 1 Peter 3.

Birthday weekend.

2010-04-03T11:10:00.001-07:00

I turn twenty years old on Monday. The birthday celebrations have already begun.

Yesterday, my friend Monique took me out for a birthday lunch at the Counter. We hit up Starbucks and Kara's Cupcakes all while catching up about most everything.

Last night, my friend Jenny came over to pick me up for dinner. Jenny is a future student at the Culinary Institute of America. So, she's kind of a big deal. To my happiness, she surprised me with a big batch of cupcakes. They're lemon with vanilla buttercream - and absolutely delicious. The best part about them was that about half of them were tailor-made to my interests. Observe.

Jenny used fondant to fashion items that represented things I love. This little DSLR camera is probably my favorite. :]

I'm gonna be twenty! In the background, another camera and some music notes.

Just a glimpse of some other cupcakes - a place-setting, some cupcakes, some snowflakes.

Hearts. Because... I'm lovable? :P

Tonight, a group of friends from high school and I are reuniting for a dinner date. Tomorrow is Easter! But it's also the time my family and I will celebrate my birthday. Friends from school have organized a get-together on Monday night, post-rehearsal. It's little kid themed. Who knows why? But I'm excited. :]

Thanks, everyone, for everything. I guess you could say I'm pretty lucky. So, let the celebration of ME continue! ;]

Chick-Fil-A is for lovers.

2010-04-02T22:40:00.000-07:00

While we were down south, we happened upon a little place called Chick-Fil-A. While I'm sure the majority of the people reading this blog (I know you're there!) have probably had the pleasure of visiting one of these establishments at least once in their lives, they are practically nonexistent in Northern California. The closest one to the area where we live is about two hours away. Ridiculous.

Suffice it to say, it was our first time at Chick-Fil-A, under the guidance of our trusty friend Brittany. We laughed, we cried, we ate chicken, and we enjoyed ourselves while doing it. So much so, that we went back the next day as our swan song meal in La Mirada.

The goods.

We're excited because we love greasy chicken!

And we like each other, too.

Brittany, the pretty girl on the left, was one of Ethan's best friends in high school. :]

Now we share the love.

For chicken and waffle fries, as well.

Are we aware of the fact that Chick-Fil-A, like all fast food, is less than nutritious? Yes. Do we care? Not particularly. :]

We miss you, Chick-Fil-A! Thanks for the memories!

Ethan.

2010-03-31T18:23:00.000-07:00

Love. And that is all I have to say.

Can we just fast-forward to June please?

2010-03-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

The good news: Ethan and I passed all of our classes and have been enjoying a Spring Break that has been very... enjoyable.

The bad news: Spring Break is ending and our third quarter begins bright and early tomorrow. It's bound to be an insanely busy ten weeks til Summer. Oh well. BRING IT ON, COLLEGE.

We made a visit to the beautiful Huntington Beach while visiting a dear friend in La Mirada. It was beautiful! Ethan ended the day happy and I ended the day incredibly sunburnt.

Off to Southern California!

2010-03-23T21:45:00.000-07:00

It's Spring Break and Ethan and I are going on a little road trip to the Los Angeles area to visit our friends Brittany and Michelle! We're driving down, so wish us luck! ;]

Spring has sprung.

2010-03-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

Cupcake Crew.

2010-03-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

Why does cake taste so much tastier in cup-form?

Do you remember last summer when Kirsten and I met up for cupcakes and a long overdue catch up session? It's a biannual tradition for us now, I think. :D

It was also around our last cupcake date that Kirsten discovered she's gluten intolerant. Well, Sprinkles came to her rescue by recently introducing Gluten-free and Vegan Red Velvet cupcakes. Rejoice! I'd like to think that "G" actually stands for my name.

Dark chocolate cupcake. Just one of FOUR cupcakes I found necessary to purchase.

This pairing of photos...

Looks all too familar... ;]

Wrapping up the quarter.

2010-03-13T15:24:00.000-08:00

At the end of each quarter, we fill out narrative evaluations about our classes. Nobody is ever excited by the prospect of struggling to produce answers to series of questions, each of which actually seems to be same question phrased in different ways.

On Thursday of last week, Ethan and I sat down to evaluate our Modern Dance I class. One noteworthy question in the narrative evaluations was this:

How has this course helped your facility and willingness to express yourself?

Ethan's response?

I am no longer afraid to groove.

Always a good answer.

Still procrastinating.

2010-03-02T17:50:00.000-08:00

I finished Gladys' headshots. I'm so pleased with how they turned out! The weather really worked in my favor, and so did Gladys' good looks. ;]

Check the rest of the set out here.

I have two more headshot sessions this week! Finally - some photos and some income. :P

Procrastinating.

2010-03-01T19:45:00.000-08:00

Editing photos when I should be writing essays.

Today, I may have taken photos of the prettiest girl you ever did see. Here's the first of several of Gladys' headshots.

Happy Birthday, Brother!

2010-02-27T09:05:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to send out some belated birthday wishes for my fantastic brother, Tucker, who turned seventeen on Thursday. :]

Life is busy.

2010-02-23T10:18:00.000-08:00

Forgive me for the lack of posts? In reality, I have nothing about which I could post that could possibly be of interest to you, unless you have a penchant for the history of the pre-modern theatre or in depth analyses of various plays. If that is the case, do let me know. :P

Victoria mentioned at some point that she wanted to hear me sing. Although I wish with my whole heart that I had a recording of the song I sang in a production of "Over the Mountain" at my university last winter, I do not. I present you with an only slightly embarrassing video of me butchering an Irish brogue while singing about how to snag a man. Enjoy.

Valentine's Day Recap!

2010-02-18T17:55:00.000-08:00

Just a little photographic evidence of our second and very happy Valentine's Day together. ;] Here is how we spent our first.

So, I had a performance on Valentine's Day, so that limited any major festivities. After the show, I was greeted by a loving Boyfriend toting a beautiful bouquet of twelve red long-stem roses (one of which is pictured in all of its glory here). I sheepishly admitted to my love that I had been too busy to do anything Valentinsey for him, but that I'd treat him to a dinner of his choice so long as we could take it back to my house to share.

This was a fib. I'll admit I didn't pull out all the stops, but I'd like to think that Ethan sees how much I care about him year-round. I'd also like to think that the little table I set up was satisfactory for my sweet. :]

A very romantic In-N-Out feast. ;]

Ethan's place-card, since he is the King of my Heart. Cheesy. ;]

Naturally, then, my placecard was the Queen of Hearts. So, although purchasing pink "Crush" canned soda seemed like a good idea, neither Ethan nor I recommend it for consumption. Ick. Tootsie pops, however, are always a good idea.

We both discovered a renewed love for Mother's Circus Animal Cookies. Thank the soul who saved Mother's brand from bankruptcy.

I made this little banner and hung it on the light fixture above the table. Ethan said yes. ;]

Overall, we had a great evening together. How about you guys? Hope you got your fair share of hearts and hugs. :]

Durang Durang.

2010-02-17T16:38:00.000-08:00

The Winter One Act Festival (featuring Christopher Durang's " 'Dentity Crisis' and Carly Mensch's "All Hail Hurricane Gordo") opened and closed this weekend. It was nothing short of amazing, of course! Gotta love my title - a cheeky play on Christopher Durang's name, which I've pirated from a series of performances which my dear friend Anna costumed.

Speaking of Anna, and Chris, and Dan, and Michelle...

Each of these sweethearts came from all over the state of California to attend my show this weekend (of course, that's not the only reason they came home, but I'd like to think I'm a pretty big draw). I stole these rehearsal photos from Lauren, who also happened to perform wonderfully in "All Hail Hurricane Gordo." ;]

Hey, check it out - it's my son/husband/father/lover. I'm not kidding. This was probably taken moments after we smooched. Lucky man.

Cross-dressing is always funny.

Yes, I am putting her in a straight jacket. No big.

Here are a couple shots of the " 'Dentity Crisis' cast and our lovely director Rachel in the purple.

Do you recognize Blake? How about my [minorly altered] my costume designs?

Anyway, after Saturday's show, I went out to greet my family and found my friends waiting for me. I was so surprised, I almost cried. It meant so much to me! Michelle took off, but the rest of us went for pizza. :]

Anna and Chris eying our shared BBQ chicken pizza. Not pictured: Dan and his stellar cheese pizza.

I'd like to offer an immense thanks to everybody who attended the show on Saturday and Sunday. My heart was exploding with happiness to perform for you all and with gratefulness for your support. My cast was so glad to have shared the weekend with you!

A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.

2010-02-16T17:11:00.001-08:00

But a rose from your love always smells sweetest. :]

Too much to do.

2010-02-15T11:32:00.000-08:00

Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it. David Henry Thoreau.

If this is true, I'm expecting a lot of success to come my way sometime in the future. I should be doing homework, so I'm unable to post about my weekend adventures. In lieu of that, here are some pretty unflattering photos of me and some beautiful friends from a weekend or two ago. Please don't judge me for my sweatiness. Just enjoy.

Posts in the cue: the Winter One Act Festival; Valentine's Day. :]

Happy Valentine's Day.

2010-02-14T18:26:00.000-08:00

"Love is, above all, the gift of oneself." Jean Anouilh.

A photo and some news...

2010-02-11T22:12:00.001-08:00

You saw this guy and his beautiful lady below, but now I've finished his headshots. :]

And now the time has come, dearest readers, to reveal the next chapter of Ethan and Grace's life together. No, not marriage. Quite the contrary: separation.

Don't jump to conclusions, sillies. Beginning in mid-August this year, I will be studying in Florence, Italy while Ethan holds down the fort here at home. For four months. Yes, I'm incredibly excited; yes, I'm incredibly nervous.

I've never been to Europe, let alone for an extended amount of time. I've already been reading Celeste's wonderful little blog to pick up on the ins and outs of life as an American student abroad in Italy, but I'm curious - have you been? Did you study abroad? Any insider tips for a poor soul like me? ;]

Just sayin'!

2010-02-10T09:48:00.000-08:00

Is this not the most attractive couple you've ever seen? Meet Blake and Anna.
I shot three rounds of photos this week. The above is actually an outtake from Blake's headshot session. I have yet to edit the actual headshots, however, since school and theatre are collectively eating up my life right now. I'm enjoying it for the most part, but my waistline is not. I guess you could say I am a bit of a stress-eater.

How are you all? Hope you're all having the most lovely Wednesday! I'll have more information on my snailmail plan for you sometime in the coming week or two. :]

Snapshots and a bit of reminiscing.

2010-02-06T21:07:00.000-08:00

My brother's Winter Formal is tonight. His crew met at my house before embarking in a party bus to San Francisco to board a boat and spend an evening at sea. The boys even purchased sailor hats in the spirit of seafaring. So awesome, right?

My mother recruited me to take photos of the group of kiddos and I gladly obliged. At the risk of creeping out these kiddos - some who know me and some who don't - I will share some of my favorites here. :]

We saw the children off, and then the jealousy set in. The whole ordeal made me really miss high school formal events. Each time I went to one, I had a blast. I had always gone with a friend as a date... Until senior year's JSB, when a certain someone donned a monkey suit in order to ask me to be his date - and his girlfriend.

Flashback. ;] I was about twenty pounds lighter and Ethan was about two inches shorter. Fact.

I think you're cool.

2010-02-03T19:41:00.001-08:00

Let's be honest here, people.

I'm cool. You're cool. There's no reason we shouldn't make our relationship official.

I want to send you something. In the mail. I don't know what that something will be, but I want you to have it. Interested? :]

The one where we slapped each other.

2010-02-01T18:18:00.000-08:00

I have talked countless times about my acting endeavors, but I have only briefly mentioned Ethan's. For a lack of better things to post, I give you the following photo of Ethan and me, pre-relationship but post-declaration of like, on stage together.

This was taken only moments after our characters engaged in a slapping fight in Christopher Durang's "The Actor's Nightmare" senior year. :P
I miss performing with him immensely. I don't think anyone compliments me so well! ;]

Totally bowlin'.

2010-01-30T12:17:00.000-08:00

We got together with a few friends last night to go bowling before our dear Brittany leaves us for school tomorrow.

Matticus.

Brittany!!

The elusive Joey.

Wow, check out Ethan's perfect bowling form.

Matt likes to use his entire body to bowl.

Pretty sure the master just bowled a strike here. Ethan would probably like me to note that he was not wearing his contacts, so he was bowling blind. SKILLZ.

This is what I look like when I bowl. So cute.

Matt bowlin' a strike. Naturally.

I love this photo. :]

But really, we're all winners.

Food, glorious food!

2010-01-28T21:03:00.000-08:00

After our first week of school back at the beginning of the month, our butts were seriously kicked. So, I took Ethan out for a much needed dinner date. He needed a little pick-me-up, so we bustled on over to the local Japantown to visit his all-time favorite Japanese place, Okayama. My camera (and my amazing new macro lens) joined us.

The salad was amazing. The dressing was delectable.

The miso soup was also amazing. Simplicity at its best.

I didn't touch this little veggie medley because I couldn't bring myself to eat those baby shrimp. I mean, look at 'em!

Let me preface this by saying: I am aware of the fact that I always get the same meal. Always. It's only because I'm new to this whole Asian food thing. Baby steps, people. :P Anyway, the tempura was quite good. Shrimp tempura is tasty, but I can usually only handle one of those. I love squash tempura, so I was disappointed they didn't offer more.

I wanted to love the teriyaki chicken, but I kept thinking of the dishes I've had in the past at Arikake and Okayama. At the time, Ethan always assured me that "This is good, but it's no Okayama," sooo I found myself let down. I'll admit that the chicken itself was delicious; I just like a bit more substance to my teriyaki sauce.

The green tea ice cream was nothing short of absolutely delicious. And I don't even like green tea.

Boring post. But the pictures were pretty.

Weeks later, school is STILL kicking our butts. I can't wait for some recuperation this weekend. Somewhere in between hours of completing assignments and writing essays, we plan on bowling with friends, watching a movie or two, and - oh. Sleeping. :]

Village on Yarn.

2010-01-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

A couple of weekends ago, Ethan and I joined a few friends at a local nightclub. One of our former high school classmates and his band, Village on Yarn, were performing there. So fun!

Super nice drummer and super cute vocalist.

How cool is the stand-up bass?

And thiiis is our friend on guitar!

Check them out here. :]

Makin' bank.

2010-01-25T06:30:00.000-08:00

Not really. This was my first paid headshot session with a student.

It's always interesting meeting up with a stranger to take photographs of them. Sometimes it's pleasantly surprising how easily the conversation flows.

This is the lovely Noelani. :]

All bets are off.

2010-01-24T19:16:00.000-08:00

I'm not a huge football person (baseball is my main squeeze), but my family is pretty enthralled with it.

When my mom heard that Ethan was convinced that the Vikings would win over the Saints today and win their spot in the Super Bowl, she immediately offered him two dollars betting otherwise. Ethan replied, "Oh, I'll take that bet. That's like taking candy from a baby."

Well, the Saints won in OT. So, my mom sent a little friendly text message Ethan's way.

Mom: Who's getting their candy taken now?

I love it.

Edit:

Ethan: Want to go double or nothing? I'll bet that the Colts win the Super Bowl.

Ask me some questions; I'll tell you no lies.

2010-01-24T11:25:00.001-08:00

Inspired by the recent increase of formspring.me accounts to procure one of my own...

Ask away!

It's design time.

2010-01-23T19:43:00.000-08:00

You might remember that I've dappled in in design before. This is my first swing as a costume designer.

Behold: my projected designs for Christopher Durang's " 'Dentity Crisis" for the Winter One Act Festival. Please ignore any mangled hands and the lack of facial identity. I don't do faces because I can't draw faces. I guess that fits in with the idea of identity crisis. Just to give you a little insight into the craziness of the show: that's my character, on the left. The fourth guy from the left? That's my son. We might share an on-stage kiss. Or several. SAY WHAT?

Excited to venture into the costume shop and start pulling pieces. :]

Follow your heart[s].

2010-01-22T21:05:00.000-08:00

Don't think I haven't noticed the steadily declining number of followers to this blog. I have, and it hurts me deep. Because my level of coolness obviously depends on how many people read my online diary - I implore you, readers: don't deny me of our friendship simply because of my lack of time.

It's not you. It's me. This quarter is my busiest yet - I'm taking more classes than recommended; I'm filling out my application to study abroad next fall; I'm rehearsing for a steadily-approaching one act; I'm serving as a costume designer for said one act; and I'm back to my old photographin' habits. It's all great, but it leaves very little time for spilling every last detail to the internet. You, my readers, get lost in the shuffle. But I am a faithful friend. I always come back.

Beyond all the melodramatic sarcasm, I guess what I'm asking is this: what do you guys even like about my blog? What keeps you kids around? What do you like to see here? To hear here? I'm curious. :]

In other news this week, I took the photograph for the poster for the upcoming One Act Festival (remember when I did this in October?). My favorite shot is also probably the creepiest shot I've taken.

I told you so. The Santa Clara University Winter One Act Festival will occur on February 13th and 14th at 2pm. Each performance will include productions of Christopher Durang's "'Dentity Crisis" and Carly Mensch's "All Hail Hurricane Gordo." Bay Areans, do stop by. This means you, Allison. :]

At the risk of making this my most sporadic post to date... I now will, at the suggestion of the super sweet and fun Celeste (who is currently living my future life, studying abroad in Florence, Italy - what fun!), I will now share seven facts about myself. I know you're curious. ;]

1. I own close to ten pairs of boots, simply because I can't get enough. Functional and stylish.

2. After graduation, I plan to get my teaching credentials in order to become a teacher of some sort.

3. You just can't beat a fresh-out-of-the-oven chocolate chip cookie, methinks.

4. I will admit that I am somewhat of a text message-aholic.

5. My first kiss from a non-family member was on the cheek from a sweet eleven year old named Armando. I met him during a missions trip to Mexico with my high school; my team was assigned to build his family of five a new home. Despite my complete inability to speak Spanish he and I developed a friendship. After we handed over the keys to their new home, the little boy tapped my shoulder. I leaned over and he smacked one on me. I returned the favor. And then he returned the favor again. ;] Such a special memory to me.

6. Whenever I see an inspiring film, I start to think about how I can make my life better, while a soundtrack plays in my head. Does that make sense?

7. My biggest fear is death - but not my own.

Have a wonderful weekend, everybody!

No shame!

2010-01-17T11:03:00.000-08:00

Ethan is in a Violence Against Women class as part of the Women's and Gender Studies Core Requirement at our university. The course is currently focusing on feminist theories and perspectives. One particular session, the professor asked the class to share words that, in their minds, were associated with sex.

And amongst all of the profanities and vulgarities, one little voice awkwardly said...

"Marriage?"

Everyone was surprised and amused. And although Ethan was a bit embarrassed to admit his lack of experience in the realm of sex, he was pleased that it gained him some fans, in addition to his biggest supporter (me!).

No shame, people. ;]

edit: I am proud of Ethan, too, you guys! ;] And I must say - this is a value we both uphold.

Crash bang boom.

2010-01-16T15:00:00.000-08:00

For whatever reason, I have yet to share this on my blog. Last month I had a bit of a scare.

I was driving home from Ethan's house one night. It was a chilly and damp evening. I was on a exit ramp merging from one freeway on to another. The ramp comes along the left side of the next freeway; it is relatively narrow and curvy. I've driven this ramp countless times, so I was kind of on auto-pilot, singing along to the radio.

A couple of summers ago, I got into a minor fender-bender after getting lost driving to a birthday party. Ever since then, I've been kind of paranoid and also imagine the worst possible situations wherever I drive. So I was thinking to myself, "It would be awful to wreck right here in the rain," because a lot of drivers tend to rush through that on-ramp, merging dangerously and causing accidents.

All of a sudden something caught my eye: the white Corolla in front of me has just driven up the steep embankment on the side of the on-ramp. The car was nearly standing up on its tailend before it fell straight back. It landed with its roof on the ground. It then flipped over so that it was sitting with the drivers side on the ground.

What the heck do I do? Probably the most unsafe thing I could have done: I moved my car only slightly out of the way and hit my emergency blinkers and frantically search my phone to call 911. I don't know what possessed me to stay so near the lane as opposed to pulling over, but I soon saw why God had me there: as I started to dial 911, I could see the driver trying to push himself out of the driver's side window. He slithered between the car and the ground and stood up - completely okay. Thankfully there had been no traffic to threaten either of us. We were both safe.

I called out to him and he was able to walk the distance to my car. As soon as he arrived, he said, "I'm so sorry! Did I hurt you?" The whole thing happened so quickly, he didn't even know what had occurred. So we both talked to 911 and I instructed him to get into my car so that we could pull over to the side of the freeway. It started to pour rain.

The driver's name is Stephen. He is an exchange student from Hong Kong and lives here to go to school. He had been driving home from getting a haircut when he had somehow lost control of his vehicle.

It had gotten dark. We stood in the rain waiting for some sort of law enforcement. In due time, two firetrucks, a paramedics van, and a few policemen and highway patrol officers arrived. A quick check of Stephen's vitals and response times relayed that he had escaped the sticky situation without any injury (although, he was probably sore the next morning). We watched as they did their parts to clean up the debris and tow the car.

Stephen and I didn't exchange information. I will probably never see him again. But, I was so glad to have been there to help him when he needed it, especially considering the fact that he's so far away from home.

God works in mysterious ways. It was a wake-up call I needed.

Charlyne Yi and my brother come together for a special occasion.

2010-01-11T19:15:00.000-08:00

My former high school doesn't "do" prom. To a Christian high school, the word "prom" wreaks of cat fights, excessive grinding, and - inevitably - baby-making. Duh?

So we have a banquet. And let me tell you - guys go all out asking girls to this event. To give you an idea: a certain someone asked a very single me to Banquet Senior year. Each period, he sent me a sweet poem and an accompanying item to clue me in on his identity. Finally, I received a clue telling me that I would encounter this mysterious man in the Quad during lunch, and he would finally pop the question. Guess what I found? A man in a monkey suit. IN A TREE. Ethan jumped down, serenaded me, and asked me to be his date. Somehow through my shock (and embarrassment - so many people were watching!) I managed to say yes. He also, at some point, was shirtless. But that's neither here nor there.

Incidentally, by the end of the day, we were goin' steady.

Back to the point: although my high school doesn't "do" prom, they do host Winter Formals - the next of which is coming up at the beginning of next month.

I never saw the movie "Paper Heart," but I do know that it starred Michael Cera and actress and comedienne Charlyne Yi. Now, in the season of Winter Formal proposals, my brother made a request to Miss Yi: would she mind helping him ask Cassidy (his girlfriend of three and a half years) to Winter Formal?

Charlyne's response?

See for yourself, my loves.

So, I mean, maybe not quite as exciting as a man jumping out of a tree in a monkey suit, but hey. Cassidy did not complain.* She just said yes.

*I'm kidding. It's pretty darn exciting.

Snow Trip, Part Two.

2010-01-09T11:27:00.000-08:00

Time to recap this little gem of a trip.

A group of assorted friends of ours took off to the Sierra Nevadas for a couple of days of fun.

The girls of the trip.

Billy, Brittany, Jinelle, and your favorite couple. This is the whole gang, minus Matt - he would meet us along the way!

One of these things is not like the other...

And then, we drove for four hours. First stop: Panda Express. Second stop, however: COLUMBIA!

A kind soul offered to take a photo of the group. Moments later, we found a Matt!

We stumbled upon these creeptastic masks in a little store.

So, naturally, we did some gender-bending.

Told you.

Exploring the surrounding grounds, I took this photo. It is possibly the cutest snapshot of these two in existence.

Um, I adore Ethan.

Jinelle and Matt!

Me and Jinelle!

I told Ethan to put on a sexy face. The results were alarming.

Jinelle!

Brittany!

Ethan!

Matt!

And, Billy at his best!

I want to love this photo for its amazing lighting, but something about it makes it really awkward. Maybe it's the illusion of my giant head. Maybe it is Ethan's "Please hurry up and take the photo" smile. Eh.

And then we did some more driving. We hit up the grocery store, did dinner, and went home where the boys built a masterful fire and we played games and watched movies til we couldn't play games and watch movies no more. So we slept. And got up early, anticipating some serious TUBING FUN.

The boys spent the better half of the trip playing Double Shutter. I had to tear them away from the game so we could leave, only to find that they brought it in the car as well.

The last shot of us before our life-altering snow day. I assume you've already seen the tubing extravaganza? Make it happen, people!

It was New Year's Eve, of course, so there was much fun to be had that night! We organized a little dinner for six, and had the bottles [of Sparkling Apple Cider] poppin' and flowin'.

A strange photo of my love and me.

We all dressed up for the occasion.

My impromptu centerpiece. :]

The table. On the menu: a previously-frozen lasagna that never quite cooked through, soggy Caesar salad, and a package parmesan rolls. Yeah, my bad. Oh well.

And, for dessert, the usual: [delicious] chocolate fondue.

As the clock struck twelve, I found myself excited for the novelty and uncertainty of the New Year. And then... I found myself super tired. :P

Happy 2010, Belatedly!

Heard and seen this week.

2010-01-08T12:28:00.001-08:00

The new quarter is off to a stressful and tiring start, but it's had its highlights already.

HEARD: I am overloading units this quarter, so I'm enrolled in six classes as opposed to the usual four. Luckily for me, however, one of those classes is Modern Dance I. Let's get this straight: I can't dance. At all. So when I saw that Modern was a requirement for my Theatre major, I was less than enthused. Plan of attack: convince Ethan to take Modern with me. Status: mission accomplished.

When I asked a friend, Katrina, what she'd heard about our instructor - a male - she responded with this useful information: "I hear he's into a lot of hipshaking and 'the power of being a woman.'"

Well then. Ethan and I say, BRING IT!!

SEEN: I am currently in the beautiful library at my University using Ethan's laptop. When he pleaded with me to "Please don't look at my internet search history, Grace. Please. And if you do, please don't judge me," I was all too aware of his reverse-psychological methods. So I looked.

Would you like to see what I found?

Simply click to enlarge!

Snow Trip, Part One.

2010-01-04T19:26:00.000-08:00

A couple of days after Christmas, my dad, E and I packed our warmest clothes and made the three hour drive to the Sierras for some ski fun. So, at seven in the morning we were up and at 'em.

My attempt at a group shot.

The early morning brought with it a whole ton of fog.

But once we got out of the Bay and into the mountains, it was beautiful. So we drove straight to the ski resort and got out on the slopes!

A sunny day makes for a sunny Grace.

Another highlight of the day: Ethan was making his way into the lift line a little more recklessly than he should have. His ski tips hit a trash can, causing it to fall over. This event caused the lift attendants to refer to him as "Trash Man" from that point forward. Yes.

So that was Day One. I have to pause for a moment to tell you how we finished out the evening: sharing a churro sundae. Yes, it is was delicious as it sounds.

The next day was a chilly with some snowfall. Skiin' in a winter wonderlannnd.

My father, the paparazzo, snapped this candid photo.

But I had the feeling someone was watching us! And sure enough... :D

Cute, Dad. :P

I was grumpy post-lunch because I was uncomfortably full and cold.

But we managed to smile as we froze in the snow!

After the last run of our trip.

We picked up pizza, packed up our belongings, and then we drove back to the Bay, where Ethan and I would spend one day before returning...

Did I mention that sometime on Day Two, we passed by some familiar lift attendants? We could tell because they greeted Ethan with a jovial, "Hey! Trash Man!"

My many faces.

2010-01-03T17:29:00.000-08:00

I'll be honest, kids... Despite some super fun times in the past couple days, I've been kind of down for the most part. But when I saw a little activity on Lex's blog, I decided to try it. It actually kind of cheered me up to be so silly!

I'd be lying if I didn't say one or two of my expressions were inspired by Lex's renditions! If you're interested, check out her post to see the complete list of expressions, as well as her and her husband's cute takes on it - and try it yourself!

I start school at eight in the morning tomorrow. Oh baby! Here's to hoping I survive.

Check throughout the week for updates on last week's snow trips. I had also wanted to do a giveaway to celebrate the first birthday of this blog (which occurred on December 22nd), buuut let's be honest: nothing to give away, and no one to give away to! ;] So in lieu of such, I offer this: Happy Birthday, Little Blog! You've come so far!

Tubing into the New Year.

2010-01-02T01:48:00.000-08:00

Watch as we achieve our dream of becoming an intertubing sextet. It's hard to tell in these clips, but the hill is really steep at the top and then flattens out at the bottom. Can you spot me?

Total and complete success in our first run.
In this one, we are going down head-first, backwards. We take out a cone and lose two tubes, but that does not stop us. That is dedication, my friends.
So, is your New Year any different than your Old Year yet? ;]

Happy New Year!

2009-12-29T20:50:00.000-08:00

Off to the snow with some friends to celebrate the end of 2009 and the start of 2010. :]

An Ethan and Grace Christmas.

2009-12-26T20:29:00.000-08:00

The last week has been comprised of a lot of running around, friend reunions, last minute preparations, baking, and all-around happiness.

Christmas Eve was mainly family-centric, but I saw a couple of friends and ate more than enough food for all of us. My family enjoyed a fondue dinner, which was amazing!

I saw E for about two seconds when I dropped off some baked goods for his family. Naturally, we needed at least one photo to keep up our tradition.

Remember my peppermint cheesecake squares? Here's the standard version, for Christmas Eve dessert.

A slice of perfection.

So, Christmas came int he morning. Amazing as always. Very blessed. I love my family so much.

It was Sonny's first Christmas, and he took a big liking to the tree. As beautiful as the tree with all of the presents under it looks in the photo above, my mom assures me it was prettier before Sonny attacked it. My mom placed a toy for Sonny in a small stocking we purchased for him and it took him all of thirty seconds to spot it and get out. Maggie's stocking is bone-shaped. ROCK ON.

Sonny spent the majority of the morning wreaking havoc on the presents.

I was overwhelmed.

My brother was enthused!

He bought me a calculator, and a giant one at that. :]

Parents went above and beyond and purchased us some reminders of our favorite things: a drumhead signed by the band No Doubt for Tucker; framed photos and a ball signed by Tim Lincecum, double Cy Young Award winner, for me. NO BIG DEAL.

The damage was severe.

My baby!!! Taken with my new macro lens - hallelujah!

We found Sonny sleeping under some tissue paper. :P

After relaxation and general merriment, Ethan visited for a little exchange of our own, highly reminiscent of last year's extravaganza except at my house this time. Naturally, Sonny and I had this set up for him. Please note the inclusion of our Christmas Bear and usual stockings in the celebration.

Allow me to explain: each of my packages for Ethan was labeled "something to keep you..." and an adjective. For instance, I labeled the cologne I purchased from him "something to keep you fresh." The sweatshirt, "something to keep you cozy." I thought it was a cute way to change up the standard gift tag. It looks like a lot, but honestly... I'm such a bargain shopper! You'd be surprised to know how much I saved!

Under this cute wrapping is the bane of Ethan's existence...

Peanut butter oatmeal cookies! Which he - and his family - just loved. I have to say, this recipe is amazing!

It's a sort of visual journal of our relationship - like a scrapbook but more art-focused and abstract. Most of the pages are private, so I can't really share them here (maybe one day). I started with about ten pages finished and add about four to five for each momentous occasion in our relationship - birthdays, Valentine's Day, anniversaries, and, of course, Christmas. It's something very fun for me and almost sacred to Ethan, who told me more than once that it was new pages in "The Book" to which he was most looking forward to this Christmas!

The whole shebang.

The best part was watching Ethan open his presents! :] So cute.

I think now is the time to remind people: Christmas is a celebration of Jesus' birth. Although it probably actually happened in August and three years sooner than scholars originally thought, December 25th is the day that the Christians choose to acknowledge God's gift to earth: the birth of His son, a direct link between we humans and God, who would go onto die to offer us salvation.

I find it funny that year after year, people critique the Christian symbols of certain holidays - Christmas, Easter, and so on - when it is out of the basis of those Christian symbols that the holidays developed. I saw a news story about a man suing the city for which he worked for using stars and angels on the Christmas trees. Another man commented that her thought the lawsuit was fair. I don't remember his exact words but they were something along the lines of "I understand because I don't think we should all be forced to believe what Americans want us to believe about Christmas." Hmmm.

If you're not celebrating the birth of Christ, what is Christmas? I can understand - heck, I even support - equal representation of beliefs other than the Christian standard... But to try to strip a holiday of its inherent purpose - or rather, cover up that inherent purpose - is silly. If you're not celebrating Christ's birth, you're not really celebrating Christmas. Thus, such complaints about the Christian "claims" on the holiday and the use of Christian symbolism of the holiday becomes irrelevant. Viola! Problem solved. Are we good?

Tomorrow, my dad, Ethan and I are embarking on a journey to the snow! It's a reprise of last year's trip. I'll be back on Tuesday but on Wednesday, Ethan and I are heading back up with four friends for a couple of days to have some fun and ring in the New Year. :]

Hope your Christmas was as merry as ours! And, if we don't talk to you sooner, hope your New Year's is equally as happy! :D

Oh Christmas Eve, oh Christmas Eve!

2009-12-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Just doing our part to spread the Christmas cheer... Are you cheerful yet? ;]

If you're looking for a last minute holiday dessert...

2009-12-23T22:13:00.000-08:00

I may have just the thing for you! I plan on making Peppermint Cheesecake for my family's traditional Christmas Eve dinner. Strapped for last minute present ideas, I did a little recipe remix and turned them into individual squares perfect for gifting and snacking.

So cute, right? And delicious too. Cheesecakes can be tough, but the trick is timing: plant yourself in front of the oven for the last ten or fifteen minutes of cooking and you'll experience no problems. All the same, I'd like to think of these as my trial run for the big round one. Let's hope that one turns out as well as the little guys did!

It's Christmastime in the city...

2009-12-22T09:43:00.000-08:00

Shortly after I returned home from San Francisco with E, Chris and Anna, I returned - this time, with my lovely little family! It's tradition that the junior class of my former high school cancels class to visit the City the day before Christmas Break begins. My brother Tucker is a junior there this year, so while he was with his class there, my parents and I enjoyed some SF time of our own.

You've heard me rave about the Blue Mermaid Chowder House in Fisherman's Wharf before. It gets better every time, people. Although I have no photos of the delicious chowders my parents and I devoured, I will say this: try the classic New England, but if you're feeling adventurous, go for the Dungeness Crab and Corn.

My parents both enjoyed some parmesan-crusted sea scallops (so good) and mashed potatoes with sautéed vegetables.

I enjoyed a delicious though fattening Caesar salad.

The day was beautiful. It's rarely so clear in San Francisco! Here's a shot of The Rock and the infamous Alcatraz that sits upon it.

So, we checked into our hotel - the JW Marriott - and relaxed a bit before going exploring.

Union Square had become a little Winter Wonderland, complete with tons of lights and a huge Christmas tree. Mind you, we are in California (hence that palm tree in the shots above) so real winter weather was substituted by the construction of a little skating rink dotted with families and tiny children and couples being cute.

The windows at Macy's are always decked out with wreaths this time of year!

My parents looking cute!

My mumsy and me.

Daddy and me.

Somewhere along the way, we had dinner and walked to a parking garage to meet my brother. We were sleepy. We slept.

The next day was spent doing more shopping and wandering and having a good time together.

This is a little crepe that the Melt Gelato and Crepe Café in the San Francisco Centre called the Strawberry Royale: bananas, strawberries, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, annnd a little scoop of vanilla gelato requested by yours truly. Was this crepe as good as Sophie's? They both have their pros and cons: I liked the crispiness of Sophie's, but technically crepes are probably supposed to be a little floppier. I loved that Melt included so much delicious fresh fruit. It's all a matter of taste.

My beautiful parents, right before a little fancy family dinner.

My brother's face makes me giggle.

"Little" brother and me. People always think I'm younger than he is!

The next morning, we packed up and headed home - but we actually stopped at Blue Mermaid again to let Tucker - a clam chowder enthusiast - try it for himself. ;]

The weekend was a whirlwind but so fun. We enjoyed ourselves immensely! It's always nice to get away with the family - especially when you love them as much as I do!

And now... I want you to ask me any question you'd like to ask me. I will answer you in video form. :]

I present you with...

2009-12-21T13:29:00.000-08:00

A photo of me. If you think I am sane, you would be wrong. I AM GOING CRAZY WITH BUSYNESS.

A photo of Sonny. In a box. As usual.

But I bet you've never seen a cat in one of these. That's right. Be amazed. My cat is a Persian prince.

Off to bake cheesecake squares, wrap and tag presents, play Santa, and make some art.

All in a day's work, people... All in day's work.

Konnichiwa!

2009-12-19T17:27:00.000-08:00

Question: Is the title politically incorrect? Answer: Perhaps. While I do hope for more responses to my last post, I decided to reward you sweet readers with a photo-filled entry nonetheless! Enjoy.

So we started the drive to San Francisco around noon. The drive to the city was pretty smooth, but once we arrived... Well, let's just say that after a couple of wrong turns we finally found Japantown around one fifteen in the afternoon. Guess what? Even on a Wednesday, there was absolutely no parking. NONE. So we drove around for forty-five minutes before giving up and going to the hotel. We secured the very last parking space in their teensy tiny garage. Luckily, we were able to check in early and we were golden!

We reserved two rooms at the Hotel Tomo in Japantown. It's a Best Western but it's been recently remodeled to employ some hallmarks of Japanese pop culture - like anime art, which lends a lot of visual appeal to the otherwise sleek lines of the hotel. Affordable and stylish? Count us in!

Here is the lobby - decorated for the holiday season!

The ceiling was super cute.

Anna, Ethan and Chris posing for their Christmas card on this blue blob we found in the lobby.

So we rode up to the sixth floor, where we would be staying. We found this mural on the wall of the boys' room. We don't know what it means, really.

The rooms each had a balcony.

With a fun view: right into Japantown!

The view up the street.

After we settled in, we are EXCITED! Let the photoshoot begin.
The only vaguely attractive photo taken of E and me on this trip. :PModels. Obviously.

Chris and Anna: the couple that isn't.

Chris and Ethan: the couple that is.

I look weird. BUT, I included this because Ethan is looking at me so sweetly!

Chris in the kimono-shaped bathrobe provided by the hotel. Okay, the political incorrectness of this post is overwhelming me right now. Sorry guys.

This is tradition.

Don't they look absolutely adorable? Afterward, I looked at the photo and asked "Ethan, why the heck is my pink umbrella in the shot?" and he replied "Sorry, I thought it would be cute." Okay, E!

Another abstract mural. This one was in the girls' room. Please observe my messy bed.

We left the room and went out exploring Japantown for a couple of hours before we came back to get spruced up for dinner. I was actually super excited to get my hands on some Japanese food. Do you remember my first time trying non-sushi Japanese? Haven't I come a long way? So, we made dinner reservations at Osaka. Ethan called it in and put it under the name "The Fantastic Four." Seriously. The lady taking the reservation was pleased.

The gyoza came out piping hot. So. Good.
If this shot of the miso soup doesn't give you a miso soup craving, I'm betting you don't like miso soup. This is miso soup at it's best.

My DELICIOUS bento box dinner: salad with miso dressing, vegetables with miso sauce, shrimp and vegetable tempura (zucchini is my favorite), some pickled something or others, and teriyaki chicken.

We shared some avocado, cucumber and prawn sushi.

This, my friends, is tempura green tea ice cream: the ice cream is enclosed by slices of pound cake. The ball is dipped in tempura batter and flash fried. And then enjoyed by four curious kids.

As much as I'd like to tell you we had a rip-roaring crazy night after dinner... We didn't. We went back to the hotel and watched some shows on the internet. Ethan passed out for about an hour and then dismissed himself to go to his room for bed. I started snoozing and when I woke up Chris was leaving to go to bed as well. I thought the night had come to an end. AU CONTRAIRE. Anna and I girl-talked it up for a couple of hours, discussing life in the dark before falling asleep.

Fast forward eight hours. Anna and I are up and ready waiting for the boys. We reunite and lug our stuff to the car and go out exploring again.

We wanted to do crepes for breakfast before we left the city. Unfortunately, our venue of choice did not open until 11:00. I KNOW. So, we sat and waited.

Some of us more patiently than others.

My crepe: bananas, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and vanilla gelato. Why is that so wrong? Ethan actually asked me to crop his hands out of this photo, lest anyone think he actually devoured this behemoth snack. For breakfast... No really, why is that so wrong? :P

And then, we checked out. We we, clearly, so sad to leave.

So then we made the drive home. It was so nice to spend time with friends - and to just get away for a day or two. Overall, we all had an awesome time together!

Making introductions.

2009-12-18T15:32:00.000-08:00

Hello from San Francisco! I'm coming to you live from Union Square.

Chris, Anna, me, and E chilling at the Hotel Tomo! in Japantown earlier this week.

We have gained a few new followers. In light of such, I think that I'd like to share a little info with you all to let you know a little about the kids behind the blog. Upon the suggestion of another sweet Anna's blog, I'm going to post ten random facts about myself/Ethan/both of us.

1. Ethan and I met in Bible class when we were fifteen. It was my first day at my new school and I have complete recollection of our conversation. He was just a little prepubescent boy then. Good times.

2. At an early age, I dreamed of becoming a television actress.

3. I have always struggled with my weight and continue to do so.

4. Fewer things are more pleasing to me than making artwork. I love photography, graphic design, visual arts...

5. The first kiss that Ethan and I shared occurred completely by accident backstage at our closing show of "Meet Me in St. Louis" senior year. Our real first kiss happened in a park about two months later, just after Ethan had asked my father for permission to date me. ;]

6. I'd like to consider myself a little bit of a Martha Stewart around the home.

7. Ethan and I attend the same university. This was purely coincidence. Although, I guess "coincidence" is just a term we use when unexpected elements of God's plans for us come together. :]

8. I want to graduate university early and go on to get my teaching credential.

9. Most of my good friends were made in high school, but I have a couple who have been there for me since middle school. Given the hard times I've encountered feeling accepted at my university, I've especially come to cherish them in this last year. I love the friends that I do have, but I wish I had more. For some reason, it's not easy for me to establish close bonds with people, even if I really like them. I think I'm a little shy.

10. I might have a minor addiction to diet soda.

The darling Victoria has inspired me to write down ten things I love about myself. I don't really like to be so directly self-complimentary, but I figure it might be a lesson in self-esteem. ;]

1. I love that I am a child of God. Or, more technically, I love that I am aware of the fact that I am a child of God, because it has granted me the ability to recognize that Jesus is my savior. Ask me about it if you'd like to know more about my spiritual journey.

2. I love that I am educated (and appreciate my parents' financial support for that aforementioned education). I would not consider myself a genius, but I do know that my education has allowed me to become a well-informed citizen and a critical thinker. And I enjoy that.

3. I love that I am creative. I love being able to throw together a comprehensive project, whether it be art, a party, or an outfit.

4. I love that I am talented. God gave me the abilities to sing and act, and I think that's pretty cool.

5. I love my eyes. Just because!

6. I love my curves. Most days.

7. I love that I can bake. Seriously.

8. I love that I am friendly. It really takes you places!

9. I love that I am a [insert my last name here]. My family members are each a huge part of my life! My parents shaped me to be a decent person and my brother keeps me laughing. My grandparents, both here and passed, also greatly influenced me. I appreciate them all so much.

9. I love that I am a blogger. A lot of people tell me that blogging is narcissistic, and that may be true. But to be, it is an outlet and I think it's pretty cool to be open about things in such a public place.

10. I love that I am blessed. I live a pretty amazing life.

Now, just out of curiosity... Who is reading this? :] I ask because I know I have some dedicated readers thanks to a stat counter I've installed. I have a small number of public followers - each of whose blogs have proven to be very entertaining. The rest of the readers, however, remain behind a veil of anonymity. In a perfect world, I'd know my audience and would delight in having conversation with them...

Please - introduce yourself! If you do so, I guarantee you a post filled with lots more photos from our Japantown excursion. And, in fact, I guarantee one even if you don't do so. :]

Date night.

2009-12-14T21:31:00.000-08:00

Ethan spent the afternoon preparing us a little dinner for two! He kept it all very secret so I didn't know what he'd made until he arrived at my house. And although the above photo shows two placesettings opposite of each other, I assure you I almost immediately moved my booty from the far side of the table to the position next to Ethan. :] I am a giddy school girl. Okay.

Finishing touches by the chef. Ethan loves food. There are few things Ethan enjoys more than butter, but I think one of them might be salt. Cos he loves salt. A lot.

He cooked up some angel hair pasta and topped it with homemade meat sauce.

He prepped this amazingly tasty avocado, tomato and lime salad.

And I handled the table. :D Here's the whole spread, complete with our weapons of choice: mini-cupcakes (vanilla bean and red velvet) and Diet Dr. Pepper.

Yes, yes, I know... I do consider myself extremely lucky. <3

An amazing day of mother-daughter bonding (shopping and eating out - what could be better?) followed by an equally amazing night! My week is clearly off to a great start. I am one happy girl.

What to say?

2009-12-13T12:43:00.000-08:00

I've been having a splendid Break so far but have little photographic evidence of it.

I do, however, have proof of a shoot I did of my friend dressed like a porn star. Enjoy.

In the coming week I look forward to Jinelle coming home, my trip to Japantown with Chris Ham and Anna the Great, and an additional trip to the City with my family. :]

Christmas Break!

2009-12-10T12:58:00.000-08:00

Voicemail recap.

2009-12-08T22:02:00.000-08:00

Ethan: "You're my dinosaur-shaped cereal. You're my one-piece PJs. You're my... the tree in my car that smells really good."

Either you are transporting a Christmas tree in your vehicle or you are comparing me to an air freshener.

Either way, thank you very much. <3

Sonny, yesterday my life was filled with rain.

2009-12-07T14:25:00.000-08:00

It's rainy and it's cold. Yes, 45 degrees at 2:30 in the afternoon is darn cold in Northern California. It's finals week. However, both of my finals are today. I will be in the second quarter of my sophomore year of college in a matter of hours. Stoked. :]

Ethan is a mathematics major.

2009-12-05T16:04:00.000-08:00

Despite his talents in other fields, his mathy knowledge always prevails. Being artsy and craftsy, I make fun of him because, honestly, who would willingly subject themselves to a lifetime of math?

He Skype messaged me a few minutes ago...

Ethan: Sorry I haven't talked to you recently - I was doing gymnastics with my dad!

THE MENTAL PICTURE. Oh the mental picture of Ethan and his father clad in eighties work-out gear complete with sweatbands. I laughed aloud.

Turns out he was actually talking about computer programming. Well, okay.

Party time, excellent.

2009-12-03T09:22:00.000-08:00

I've been so excited to share some photos of the dinner party I held at my house last Friday. It was so lovely to reunite with my friends and share some quality conversation and lots of laughs. I was flattered by the compliments that evening - they just kept coming. In fact, I received a sweet, sweet thank you card from one of the guests, Tammy, who told me I was "a Paula Deen/Martha Stewart, but hot!" Haha! So I was pretty proud that, with a lot of help from my family and friends, I was able to pull it off... I honestly love planning parties. Can't I just do that for a living? Hm?

I am a huge sucker for bunting. You may remember the banner I made for Ethan's surprise party this summer. I made the pendants on the computer and hung them on a gold ribbon. I made the tissue paper flowers and fastened them on with wire.
The entry way.

On the menu that evening: Roquefort pear salad, garlic bread, pork tenderloin, roasted red new potatoes, roasted asparagus, peas, and mushrooms, and chocolate fondue.

I made a few of these circular pendants as well and hung them in various places. Here is the song that hung above my appetizers. Fun fact: I "made" both of those fonts!

Assorted decor.

My strong father helped me push two foldout banquet tables together to create one very large table to fit the twelve attendees. This posed problems tablecloth-wise; I had borrowed a beautiful cream-colored tablecloth from my grandmother that proved too small. My genius mother told me to stop worrying and go work on something else while she prepared a solution. When I returned, the table looked amazing. The secret: she had taken a large bed sheet of a shade similar to the tablecloth and laid it underneath. VIOLA. So smart! And I'm sure we had my guests fooled.

It was a tight squeeze, but we managed. We like to get cozy. ;]

The table runner was actually just a piece of fabric folded a couple of times to avoid sewing. I ran this beautiful purple ribbon down its length for some color anchor.

Detail shots. I put together these centerpieces myself. I took three canisters and filled them half-full with moss. I had gotten a bag of assorted pumpkins at the grocery store, but orange wasn't exactly in my color scheme. I spray-painted the orange pumpkins gold and left the gorgeous white ones untouched. I threw in some cinnamon sticks, decorative gold sprigs, and topped it off with a single paper flower. I found candles around the house to add a little visual interest to the table. I added bows or lace to each one, but disappointingly, I have no pictures. Boo!

Kirsten's place setting. Secret: my napkin rings aren't really napkin rings...

I cut up paper towel rolls and wrapped the pieces in two alternating colors of ribbons to use with my two alternating sets of cloth napkins (alas, there were too many people to use one set - but I liked it more this way, after all!).

Oh! Remember when I told you my mom had taken up metal embossing? I recruited her to help me create place cards for my table! Aren’t they lovely? Seriously.

The table all lit-up that evening.

The beverage station. Let it be known we went through five bottles of Martinelli’s Sparkling Apple Cider and only stopped because we ran out.

Unfortunately, since I was pretty busy preparing and plating food for twelve (!), I have no photos of the Roquefort pear salad, but I think we all enjoyed it. Above is the main course: roasted asparagus, peas, mushrooms, and pork tenderloin.

Assorted delectables for our chocolate fondue (thanks to this Ghirardelli recipe)! I realized I had forgotten to put the candied pecans on our salad, so we put them to use during dessert. ;]

As my guests left, they each picked up a bag of caramel corn from this little display.

Although I'll admit my batch of caramel corn was particularly chewy (sorry, guys), my mom swears by a slight adaptation of this recipe.

But of course, what makes a party best are the people who come! <3

I really should be studying.

2009-12-02T19:11:00.000-08:00

WE ARE EXCITED TO BE ALIVE.

I am almost as excited as Ethan is in this photo to share photos of the dinner party decor, and that will happen in due time. To avoid photo-overload, I'm posting a preliminary round of photos of fun and merriment.

One of my favorite things about parties is the blending of the old and the new. Well, newer, anyway. My middle school friend Karina (far left) and one of my newest buddies Monique (third from left) joined a slew of my high school buddies for this snapshot.

One of my friends of over a decade, Jenn, was also sweet enough to join us. :]

A decent-lookin' bunch of kids.

Who are totally and completely normal.

A snippet of cuteness brought you by Marissa.

My best friend Mich. She looks gorgeous and I look... tired. Can you blame me? I spent all day over the stove!

Anna, Marissa, and Anishka.

E was such a big help to me during the party. This is not exactly our best photo, but I still think Ethan looks handsome!

The infamous Chris Ham and dearest Anna Jay.

Ethan with the stars.

The girls of the party, post-9pm. :]

When somebody suggests a "Lady Gaga" pose, this scene is what ensues.

I love friends.

When you give a cat a box...

2009-12-01T20:14:00.000-08:00

He will hop inside.

When you give a cat two boxes, he will split his time evenly between hopping inside box one and box two. He may or may not suffer from reflective pet eye.

If you like it then you shoulda put a ring on it.

2009-11-30T19:31:00.000-08:00

Much to share. But lacking time currently. I'll be back when finals are done kicking my booty. In the meantime, here's a sneak-peak of Friday night's dinner party. Enjoy!

My "handmade" invitations. I drew up the graphics and scanned them onto the computer. I then added the font, which is actually my handwriting, font-ified. RSVP phone number removed to prevent any creepiness. So, stay tuned for more info on...

My homemade bunting banner, complete with tissue paper flowers.

My homemade centerpieces.

How I tied bows on most everything for optimum ~cuteness~.

And more shots of my cute friends. Above: we may have attempted to learn the dance to "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" for about two seconds. Then we gave up, but not before a sufficient amount of "Oh, oh, oh"ing and shaking our jelly.

Bonus body shot: realized I never got a full-length of my outfit (I'm such an irresponsible blogger) so I had to improvise.

And showing off his bootylicious bod, Sonny, who spent the whole evening with the twelve of us. I'm telling you: he's a wonder cat.

Givin' thanks and gettin' full!

2009-11-28T14:52:00.000-08:00

Woke up and worked my butt off baking a batch of pumpkin pie cookies topped with maple icing for Ethan's family in the spirit of Thanksgiving. :D

One of the things I love most about Thanksgiving is having the opportunity to enjoy being with my family, free of interruption. Given that fact and the fact that I'm kind of a photo-fanatic, it's ironic that I have absolutely zero photographic representations of my beautiful family on Turkey Day.

In lieu of such, please enjoy our table. My mom and I threw this together with little to no effort, very last minute. But since my mom is an artist (though she is too modest to call herself such), it turned out beautifully!

Not pictured: amazing food and my amazing family. We shared a lot of laughs. Table Topics, anyone?

My mom has recently taken up metal embossing. She made a couple of monograms and framed them for my grandmothers' place settings.

See how cute?

Yep. And within the next couple of days I'll have more photos of her adorable work - I'm so excited to share!

And if I may brag for a minute about my caramel apple cheesecake (based on this recipe - I opted for a homemade graham cracker-walnut crust instead)... Look at that - no splits in the cake top! So proud of myself!

Minutes before serving, I topped the cheesecake with a warm caramel apple sauce.

Oh, and here is Sonny during our Thanksgiving dinner. This is where he spends most of his time now: in a shallow box from a case of water bottles. He's thrifty. I've taught him well.

I hope all of my lovely readers had an equally lovely Thanksgiving. Tell me, what was your favorite dish? :P

Busy and dizzy.

2009-11-27T23:50:00.000-08:00

I've hardly had enough time to breathe over the past few days! I'm not upset about this fact, but it is nice to finally have the chance to inhale.

On a side note, I just found my kitten eating cheese spread out of a bowl on my counter top.

Mark, via my flickr.

Holidays in the hood.

2009-11-24T14:59:00.000-08:00

I've always loved the last three months of the year. October, November, and December are sprinkled with holiday get-togethers, warm clothes, and good food. Since graduating, my love for this time of year has only grown: I love a little hiatus from college-life and seeing all of my high school friends who have returned home from their respective colleges and universities across the country.

Last night, one of my best friends, Michelle, came over. she surprised me by bringing her little sister, Gracie - my honorary niece! So nice to see them because I love them both dearly!

Gracie's facial expression just screams "Don't mess."

I picture messaged this photo to Ethan, who responded most eloquently:

LOL. I'd let that gangsta cut me!

Well, hm. We may be one of the less PC couples you've met. I don't know whether to be proud or ashamed.

Swooning permitted.

2009-11-23T15:48:00.000-08:00

He might kill me for putting this up. But I don't care! ;]

Warning: Uncouth content.

2009-11-20T16:41:00.000-08:00

Today I saw a female wearing a shirt sending me an interesting message...

If I had balls, they'd be bigger than yours!

Well. If you're that quick to advertise it, I don't doubt it.

Mathematics: Ethan's Anti-Drug.

2009-11-18T13:50:00.001-08:00

Yesterday Ethan taught me binary notation. He was very understanding of my inability to pull off "simple" math in my head, buut when I finally figured out how to convert decimals to binary, he rejoiced. Funny how mathematicians get their kicks.

Anyway, I'm bored in the library, so now I present to you, without further ado... Today's date, 11/18/2009, in binary: 1101 10010 11111011001.

THRILLING!

My beef with Nordstrom.

2009-11-17T18:35:00.000-08:00

Firstly, You said you shipped me a boyfriend blazer and a jersey cardigan. The cardigan arrived, but the blazer? Nowhere to be found.

So I call you to ask, "What gives?" You put me on hold for three minutes. This wouldn't be so bad except that you are playing a song by Madonna.

~~But, you have since rectified the situation and all is well. Thanks for the cute stuff, guys.~~

Edit: I am not happy, Nordstrom. You let me down. RIP cute blazer.

You think you're sooo funny.

2009-11-14T08:54:00.001-08:00

While waiting for my university's production of Erik Ehn's "Saint Plays" to begin...

Grace: E, I have this huge zit right between my eyes and I'm feeling really self-conscious about it!

Ethan: I don't know what you're talking about. I don't see anything, GK. You're beautiful!

Grace: Liar! I know you see it.

Ethan: Maybe it's the lighting - tilt your head to the side.

Grace: Okay...

Ethan: WHOA MOMMA! LOOK AT THAT SUCKER!

Thank you, that is all.

Thursday Word: Romans 6:3.

2009-11-12T14:08:00.000-08:00

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 6:3.

Does whatever a spider can.

2009-11-11T16:20:00.000-08:00

Look at this huge spider I discovered chillin' in a massive web in my backyard a couple of weeks ago. It was probably about an inch long, but I guess the tight crop of this photo doesn't really do its size justice.

All the squeemish people reading this just got the heebie jeebies. Sorry. ;]

Laughin' out loud.

2009-11-09T21:52:00.000-08:00

My high school Anatomy and Physiology teacher was born and raised in New York. His undying love for the Yankees and my equally passionate dislike for them caused a bit of a rivalry between us. Anyway, he currently teaches my brother so my mother and he had an email correspondence going on. He left a darling post-script at the end of one of their emails especially for yours truly!

"ps: Tell Grace I'm sorry about the Yankees winning the World Series. LOL."

Yes. "LOL" indeed.

Friendship is Skype.

2009-11-08T18:06:00.000-08:00

Last night post-Chris&Ethan adventure, I Skyped with one of my best friends Michelle and her boyfriend Dean. These are the results. Fascinating.

"Fried Squid Balls": An Exposition.

2009-11-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

Our dear friend, the lovable Chris Ham, was in town for two nights only, so yesterday evening we met up with him for some chow.

Ever heard of Quickly? Please do not consider this post an endorsement for that establishment. I think one should only frequent Quickly if they intend to die a premature death. As Ethan says, "Quickly portions their food in order to give you the amount of food exactly equal to the amount that will kill you." Good thing Chris and I more or less split an order of tater tots (identified on the menu as "Tater Totes"). Ethan abstained altogether - he is, after all, only just recovering from a gastrointestinal bacteria (seriously!).

We decided we'd had enough. But not before Chris decided to order "Fried Squid Balls." I have several objections to this menu item: a) ambiguous title (what, exactly, are "squid balls"?); b) false advertising (clearly, they are wedges, not balls); c) the fact that Chris actually willing chose to order something called "Fried Squid Balls." Never fear; they were not eaten.

Chris, contemplating whether or not his fried squid balls were worth trying.

Ethan couldn't even look. I want to call him a Drama Queen, but I honestly don't blame him.

So then we packed up and headed to Orange Tree before making the hour-long trek to Chris' and back. I'll tell ya, every experience with Chris is an exciting one! Next time, he says, we're trying the "Pop Dogs." Can't wait for Thanksgiving when we reunite once more. :P

Thursday Word: Hebrews 4:12.

2009-11-05T09:17:00.000-08:00

"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12.

via my flickr.

Boo!

2009-11-03T17:42:00.000-08:00

I harassed Ethan into dressing up. He came as a monkey. HA. I was Little Red Riding Hood, although someone asked me if I was "Red Riding Hood." I'm beginning to think that the omission of "Little" was intentional.

Halloween is one of those holidays that I never really think I'll enjoy until I realized I get to dress up like something, and eat candy with the sole excuse "It's Halloween!!" Too bad I started snacking on KitKats and Reese's a week before the actual holiday; I gained my post-Halloween pounds pre-Halloween! Oh well.

Yes.

Just a little glamor shot for all you Little Red Riding Hood enthusiasts out there.

Body shot. Enjoy the creepiness of my brother. My mom and I made my brother's, um... headsack. And my mom sewed my cape as well! I was demoted to fabric-cutter and pinner after we realized I can't sew for my life.

Tucker's girlfriend Cassidy was Wilma, and Tucker made a magical transition into Fred Flinstone later that night.

Ethan did the gutting for me because I didn't want to get dirty.

There it is, ladies and gentleman, the VIP of the evening: the power drill. Quick and easy with adorable results. If I do say so myself. And I do.

Voila! Please enjoy the most adorable Halloween pumpkin ever created.

SPOOOOKY. Ethan and I did some last-minute decorating. Not pictured: a huge rubber rat, a warty pumpkin, and a skeleton with an exposed glowing brain. How a skeleton has a brain is beyond me.

Good times. My eyes have been burning for the past couple of days. What gives?!

Fun fact: my brother is a world record-holder.

2009-11-01T18:33:00.000-08:00

So I've talked about my brother Tucker and his talents, but apparently he was keeping one to himself. I just received word that my brother and his friend Josh are, indeed, the current world record-holders for the "Fastest Time it Takes Two People to Hug Ten Times" at 7.25 seconds. Seriously, look. How hilarious is that?

Thursday Word: Proverbs 11:28.

2009-10-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

"Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf." Proverbs 11:28.

via my flickr.

Words from the wise. Ish.

2009-10-29T00:40:00.000-07:00

It's 12:40pm on a Thursday. Ethan just woke up.

We both have so much schoolwork to complete today. Oh, procrastination. You seemed like such a good idea at the time.

Maggie deserves more media coverage.

2009-10-27T21:20:00.000-07:00

A cat who needs no introduction.

2009-10-26T21:41:00.000-07:00

Photos from closing.

2009-10-26T16:10:00.000-07:00

"Women and Wallace," by Jonathan Marc Sherman, is one of the best one-acts I've read. It's by far the best I've been in! Our one-weekend run kicked off Saturday and closed yesterday. I have so few photos from the whole thing that it kind of depressing me. My beautiful and talented castmates are practically nonexistent in my photos. But here's some photos from post-closing.

I played Sarah and Katrina played Wallace's Grandma.

A really weird photo of my handsome boyfriend and me.

My father (and my bouquets), my brother, myself, and my other brother (aka my friend Andrew).

Ethan snapped this of me as we waited in the In-N-Out drive-thru. He decided to take me out after the show!

Check out my huge forehead. So nice!

And again. Still waiting for food.

Anyway, we chowed down in my car and saw a movie. Did you know "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" is actually one of the most entertaining films I've seen in awhile? I feel like everyone went to see "UP" but this movie was sort of overlooked by people who aren't little kids or parents (we were the only people from our age group in the theatre - more power to us!). It was hilarious. And so cute. Go see.

Anyway. I am exhausted. That is all.

In living color.

2009-10-23T22:29:00.000-07:00

via Rifle Design.

I absolutely adore these wedding invitations by Florida-based illustrator and designer Anna Bond. She just makes the cutest hand-painted artwork and perfects that hand-drawn script... Envious!

How do Boyfriend and I look in cartoon-form?

Stole this from something I'm working on: my very first illustrated invitation (not for a wedding, but maybe one day...). Don't let the pros fool you - this stuff is hard to do! But it's so rewarding to see your your scribbles become art, and I'm pretty happy with the results so far. I should finish it tonight. Can't wait to print it out and send them off to all corners of the United States! And in a couple weeks, I'll be able to post the finished product here.

How boring was this for you guys? Probably really.

Thursday Word: Isaiah 53:6.

2009-10-22T16:26:00.000-07:00

"We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all." Isaiah 53:6.

via my flickr.

I love a good party.

2009-10-21T16:11:00.001-07:00

I wouldn't have minded being a guest at this Oh Joy! stationary launch party. Check out the photobooth photos and that cupcake tower! Too cute!

Photos by Max Wanger via Oh Joy!

Chow time.

2009-10-20T20:50:00.001-07:00

Why am I pigging out recently? I ate about a million cookies and other assorted foodie badness last week. So this week I'm seriously trying to get over these poor eating patterns. In the meantime, however, observe my meal from our Sunday family dinner at Los Altos Grill.

This is cornbread in a skillet. Yep.

A delicious center cut filet with garlic mash potatoes and brocoli.

Shared desserts of Oreo banana cream pie...

And the most delicious ice cream sundae with candied walnuts and Scharffen Berger chocolate sauce (with an additional mini pitcher for more pour'age... I died).

Yeah, I didn't eat the cat. He's just deliciously cute.

Family dinners are awesome. The minute we sat down my parents said to my brother and me, "Okay, guys, we're going to outlaw texting for the next two hours." Yes, I love technology - always and forever.

I'm delirious, you guys.

News from the big world.

2009-10-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

While I'm stuck inside using my day off to write six pages worth of midterm-related essay, my mom is out and about. Just received the following text from her.

Mom: "So it's Senior Day at Ross. Ten percent off. It's packed. Announcement over the loudspeaker: 'If you're driving a maroon Ford Taurus, your driver's side door is wide open.' Seniors! Gotta love 'em!"

Excuse me while I laugh. Okay, I'm done.

Nom nom nom.

2009-10-18T10:43:00.000-07:00

Mehhh. I was going for cute curls but ended up with eighties hair. I tamed it for the most part, I think.

I love food. And I have to deal with the consequences of that fact. Anyway, although I'm a foodie, I'm not really one for Asian cuisine. So when Ethan told me he wanted to take me out for Japanese food, I was skeptical... But I ended up loving it!

Check out dis cutie!

Before the meal, Ethan taught me to use chopsticks - something I had never been able to actually do. And guess what? I successfully used them the entire time! Even for my rice. I was so proud.

First impression: "Diet Coke in a mini glass bottle? I LOVE THIS PLACE!"

Kicked off the eating extravaganza with some goyza, which are Japanese style potstickers. So delicious!

Some Miso soup and tsukemno. This soup was a little too seaweedy and the veggies a little too pickled for my tastes.

My chicken teriyaki. Which was to die for.

And, lastly, shrimp tempura - Ethan's fave.

We were stuffed. And yet we jetted off to the movie theatre to watch "Whip It." Afterward, Ethan owed me an apology because he thought it looked dumb and I thought it looked awesome. Our verdict? It was awesome.

Great night.

Inspiration.

2009-10-17T13:23:00.000-07:00

via Once Wed.

How sweet is this "Just Married" banner (not to mention those handmade tissue-paper pom-poms!)? While I'm not getting hitched any time soon, I'm a lover of bunting of all types, especially hung on twine. Lovin' these lace doilies with letter-stamped burlap layovers. Let's just say this has served as inspiration in the genesis of my fall dinner party which, cross your fingers, should occur next month!

Bad week.

2009-10-16T20:48:00.000-07:00

This week I really just felt like curling up into a ball and sleeping. Like Sonny.

But instead I baked these cookies (best ever - in fact, I might be fixing another batch tonight).

Wrapped up some gently-used books of mine as a congratulatory gift for my little brother Tucker...

Because he got his driver's license! :D I waited until I was eighteen to get my license. I'm cool.

And I finally finished a letter (if you've ever received something from me in the mail, you know that it almost always entails artwork) for a friend. I hope she doesn't see it here since I haven't actually sent it yet... HA.

What's going on with my life? I feel dazed and confused.

Not too shabby!

2009-10-14T18:45:00.000-07:00

IHere are my dress designs for Shappy Apple Dresses - a wonderful little company specializing in the production and sale of beautiful and tasteful dresses for all occasions! Just can't get enough of their "flirty" collection. I really can't get enough of any of their collections. Too amazing! Anyway, I enjoyed creating these - first, drawing the designs free-hand on some croquis; then scanning them to the computer in order to add color and pattern in Photoshop Elements. So rewarding to see them come together! It's a long shot, entering this contest at all, but it's worth a try! Regardless, I'm happy to share my ideas with you. :]

Anyone who knows me knows that I love all things retro, with a special penchant for the 1940s and '50s. :] With these eras past as my inspiration, I worked to modernize my favorite classic silhouettes with more current twists, like a waist belt or a bold pattern. I also took into consideration the projected popular colors for spring and asked myself the question: What do I want to wear this spring? These are my results.

Design 1: A simple teal jersey dress with a ruffled neckline and a bubble hem, paired with an elastic waist-belt with a metallic clasp.

Design 2: A cream-colored airy cotton-spandex sailor-inspired shift with slate-colored satiny detail and pockets hidden within its a-line skirt.

Design 3: An attached blouse-and-skirt dress with a structured floral skirt. The silk-cotton blouse includes floral lace-embroidery detail and a matching fabric belt loops around the cotton skirt's waist.

Design 4: Inspired by Maria's dress in the classic West Side Story, this ivory linen-rayon frock features an a-line skirt along with a few contemporary alterations, including an empire waist, a lace-embroidery yoke with button detail, and half-length sleeves.

Design 5: A cotton-poplin faux-wrap dress in coral with a thick empire waist with a cream rosette detail.

I don't really know if I'm breaching the parameters by including several of my designs. If so, Shabby Apple people, just pick yo fave. And the rest of you - check out Shabby Apple and see what beautiful items they already offer! I'm tellin' ya, if I weren't a broke college student...

I'm sorry, what?

2009-10-13T15:45:00.000-07:00

Okay, people, I'm really sorry to subject you to another post filled with self-absorbed complaints, but the fact is: blogging, by nature, is self-centered. Nevertheless, I apologize.

Cos really, I need to vent. I try, try, and try, but nothing's going my way, guys. Numerous opportunities offered to me and then subsequently pulled right out from under my nose. A lack of support from my friends - heck, a lack of friends. I don't get it. What gives? I guess it's safe to say Somebody's got other plans for me. But right now those plans look about as appealing as bathing in a bathtub full of nails.

Thursday Word, Tuesday Edition: "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 2:19.

So here I am. Consider this my boast, cos I really don't know what else to do at this point.

Who doesn't like a beautiful wedding?

2009-10-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

I'm a sucker for beautiful wedding photos. Yesterday, my favorite Smitten blogger Joanna Goddard began posting photos of her lovely August wedding, all shot by Max Wanger - my favorite photographer. Fancy that! Too much good in one wedding.

I'm in love with this program by Rifle Design's Anna Bond. So amazing.

See more images everyday at A Cup of Jo. Check out more amazing Max Wanger shots on his website.

Didn't Joanna look beautiful? The dress! The hair! The love! Can't wait to see more. :]

A shameless plug.

2009-10-12T19:52:00.000-07:00

Just a little publicity for the one-act I'll be performing in later this month. We're blessed with a wonderful director and an awesomely talented cast.

See that third pair of legs from the left? Yours truly. The photo was actually shot by yours truly, as well. It's going to be used on a poster but I don't have access to that poster at this time. So here is my version because it's better to get the word out sooner than later.

Come, if you're in the area, friends!

A bit of nostalgia.

2009-10-11T20:27:00.000-07:00

Did anybody see the amazing "Lazy Sunday" as performed by Andy Samberg and Christ Parnell on "Saturday Night Live" a couple years back? Well, senior year of high school, one of my best friends and I set out to create our final video project for our Economics ("Economix," for the rillest g's) with the profound digital short as our inspiration. I wrote the heart-warming lyrics and we worked collaboratively on the concept, while another friend tackled the cinematography. Enjoy.

It's Friday!

2009-10-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

Today I am struggling to make the decision whether or I like or dislike it when someone smells overwhelming of laundry detergent. On the one hand, their clothing is undoubtedly fresh and clean. On the other hand, I feel like my head is stuck in a laundry machine.

So I know it seems pretty self-absorbed to post photos of myself... that I took... And I will probably regret this later. But you know what? This blog is boring and the few readers I have (yes, I know you're out there) deserve some sort of visual interest. Right? Right. SO HERE GOES.

This is me. And my dog. More technically, this is a photo of me and my dog, taken from below, making me look incredibly peach-shaped. C'est la vie.

The lighting of these shots, taken about an hour before the above photo, is so much better. Ahhh. Okay. This is me with some pretty clothes on and a cool hair do. It's a braid headband. I wove it of my own hair. Still attached to my head. Quick, easy, and perfect for those days I don't feel like showering. Like today. My shirt belonged to my mom in the 70s. My belt is a thrift find. My necklace was a gift to me from my best friend. My skirt is from Target, and so are my shoes - which I own in multiple colors. The best everrr.

So I may do this from time to time when I've nothing better to do. Alright, that's enough for this evening. :] Have a splendid weekend!

Thursday Word: 2 Corinthians 5:17.

2009-10-08T11:40:00.000-07:00

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" 2 Corinthians 5:17.
via my flickr.

A snippet of cuteness to get you through the day.

2009-10-07T20:58:00.000-07:00

For my acting class we were assigned the challenge of an interview exercise. We assigned five set questions to ask our subject. We were to record our interviews. Later in class, we will reanct the interview - playing the part of the interviewee. So we'll memorize their words, perfect their vocal patterns, and attempt to recreate the scene. Pretty cool, right?

Well I conducted my interview today, recruiting a dear friend as my subject. I'm excited to try to reproduce her interview, since she provided some amazing answers to my questions. When I asked her "What do you think happens when you die?" she giggled before responding, "Well. I remember when I took my first plane ride, I remember I was really confused why I couldn’t see any angels in the clouds. I thought, Maybe we're just in the wrong place...'."

What an ingenuous sentiment. So sweet! Lovin' it.

So off I go. Lots of homework to do. And, to be quite honest, television to watch. Don't judge me!