Stolen Goods

Tae Kwon Dorable

2011-11-23T14:35:00.000-08:00

I think someone just earned their purple belt!

Tuesday Olé!

2011-11-22T19:11:00.001-08:00

Poor Tuesday-- it's probably the most overlooked of days, isn't it? It's got none of the piety of Sunday, or the love-to-hate-it of Monday, or the mid-weekness of Wednesday, or the thankfulness of Thursday, or the TGI of Friday, or the joie de vivre of Saturday. Tuesday's got nothing.

Except around here. Tuesday is hotly anticipated by both me and my favorite fella, because that's the day we have a standing dinner date. The cuisine? Duh. Mexican! Every Tuesday we know that we're about to work ourselves into an enchilada, carne asada, chips and salsa stupor. So today, I'm thankful for Tuesday, excellent company, and glorious, glorious Mexican food. :)

Amazing. For Real.

2011-11-21T17:32:00.001-08:00

Today I'm thankful for books. I'd been on the library waiting list for Unbroken for a good long while, and now I know why. I'm only about half way through, but it's blown my mind several times. No wonder everyone kept saying it was amazing-- because it is. Chances are you're probably one of the many who was on that waiting list before me, but if not, what are you waiting for?

Thankful for...

2011-11-20T20:21:00.001-08:00

Sunday naps. The best naps of all. And if you know how much I like naps on the rest of the days, you know that's really saying something.

Saturday is a Special Day

2011-11-19T20:16:00.001-08:00

Lots of Saturday evenings, I carve out a little time to do what I'm doing right now-- thinking about faith and spirituality and God. Now, I don't do this only on Saturdays, but on Saturdays my meditations do take on a different tone. Peaceful, zen-like? No. Try a little frantic, in a cramming-for-the-test kind of way.

You see, at church we all get called to serve in different ways-- our "jobs"-- and currently, mine is teaching the Gospel Doctrine class, where we discuss scripture; this year it's the New Testament. And do you know what can be a little daunting? Leading a discussion on deeply profound truths in a room full of people who probably know a good deal more about your topic than you do, that's what.

But guess what? I love my calling. Even when I'm in a little panic over it-- (ack! I have to teach this tomorrow!)-- I am so grateful for it. It's that panic that makes me kick my efforts up a notch to really be mindful of the words I'm studying, to mine them for the many layers of truth they hold, and to seek for what it really means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. (Spoiler: Love people. All people. All the time.)

This week we're talking about James-- and it's gorgeous. I'm thankful for that.

Thankful for...

2011-11-18T22:12:00.001-08:00

Nyquil. Goodnight!

Outside...

2011-11-17T15:15:00.001-08:00

At my house right now, it's in the low 70's. The light has a sparkle to it, the colors are popping. Heading into the holiday season here means that the grass is at it's greenest and people are out planting annuals. The weather is just right for everyone: the snowbirds can take pictures in shorts to send to their envious snowbound friends, while the year-round residents can put on a sweater and boots. Basically, it's glorious. And this girl is grateful.

Meet George Jetson...

2011-11-16T15:03:00.001-08:00

Today I'm thankful for the future. I'm not talking about the actual future future, but the future that is going on right this very instant, here in the present.

Just this morning, I caught up on a couple of shows I'd missed--skipping through commercials, of course--on my DVR. Then I checked out two great books from the library and had them in my hands instantly, without having to leave my house. Then I chatted up my parents face to face (almost) even though they're 5300 miles away. I've owned a robot vacuum, for heaven's sake, and have had the luxury of deciding that it wasn't that awesome. And the crazy thing is that none of that sounds that impressive, because that's just our everyday life-- when just a few years ago, that stuff was only available on the Starship Enterprise. Living in the future is pretty cool, I tell you what.

Gratitude...It's About Time

2011-11-15T19:28:00.001-08:00

If I had been a more clever (and nicer) girl, I would have combined NaBloPoMo with 30 Days of Gratitude like my lovely friend Lorinda, instead of milking my vacation photos for as long as possible, right? Luckily, it's always a good time to be grateful, so let's get this party started.

Today I'm grateful for girlfriends. I've been catching myself smiling all afternoon after lunch with The Ladies. It's always a sweet-slash-hilarious time with those girls, and I always leave with my cup filled. And thinking about it, I was realizing that I've always lucked out in the friend department--like the girls who saw me through Barbies, tween and teen-hood, and Duran Duran, the college roommates who became like sisters, kindred spirits at work and church, and even a few delightful friends I haven't technically met. I don't know how all the best ones seem to pop up in my life, but like I said-- I'm lucky.

Girls rule.

Thanks, friends. :)

I'm With the Band

2011-11-14T15:46:00.000-08:00

Do you hear that? That awesome sound? That would be Sydney and Jillian rocking their band concert.
Jillian started beginning band this year, and she OWNS that flute. Both figuratively and literally.
Sydney is playing the clarinet in advanced band, and the piano in jazz band. I've always known that girl had a jazzy soul.

My completely unbiased opinion is that these girls are excellent musicians. But the best part? They're even better at self-deprecating band nerd humor. Yesss!

Sharla's Travel Tips: Always Take the Super Secret Tour

2011-11-13T18:20:00.001-08:00

OK, the truth is, I don't really have any inside scoops on any legitimately exclusive, secret tours. But I have learned this: if you hear that a place has a tour that isn't necessarily secret, but seems to be kind of unadvertised, and if that tour involves crypts, you should totally go on that tour. (Remember that Scavi Tour in Rome that I was so braggy about? See? Kind of secret + crypts = awesome.)

Two reasons:
1) It will undoubtedly be interesting and enlightening.
2) The feeling of superiority from being "in the know" is delicious. Grab that opportunity.

So, at the Old North Church (of Paul Revere lantern-hanging fame, bien sûr--one if by land, two if by sea...) there's a Behind the Scenes tour that fits the bill.

There was a sea of tourists milling about, but our lovely guide breezed us (just us-- so fancy, right?) past them (see ya, suckers!), into the foyer, and into a little hidden side door leading up a set of narrow and twisty stairs. I ask you, could it be more Nancy Drew? We could have ended it there and I'd still be a happy girl. And what was up there? The bell- ringing room, where a young Paul Revere (and his pals) were bell ringers. Wow!

Our next stop was downstairs, and through the chapel, where we stopped for a moment to see George Washington-- it's said that this bust is the one that looks the most like him:

Go in for a close-up! So different from the dollar bills, right?

So then, we went right through that door underneath Mr. President, and down twisty stairs, to the crypt (even more Nancy Drew!), and learned a little about just a few of the 1,100 buried there.

This visit scored five thumbs up from the Fox Fam-- even the discriminating Owen was impressed.

The secret + crypt formula proves itself again!

Epiphanies

2011-11-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

Walking around in Concord, I thought it was no wonder this place has been a hotbed of spiritual, intellectual, and philosophical thought. Good heavens, if we'd all just wander around in those crisp breezes, that dappled sunlight, listening to the whispers of those shimmering leaves long enough, everyone could go around thinking amazing thoughts. Easy. I'd like to see Emerson and Thoreau being quite so transcendental in the midst of a Southern California desert summer.
Unfortunately, it appears that I didn't wander quite long enough. But believe me, I was thisclose to super amazing thoughts.

Mike, however, did have a Concord epiphany.
I was very excited to visit Orchard House, the home that was the setting for Louisa May Alcott's Little Women -- and we'd even get to see the little desk where it was written!

Mike, however, was a bit skeptical. "So... we're going to walk through an old house?"

"Uh, YES! Louisa May Alcott's house. Just wait! You'll like it."

"Right."

So, we watched a little video where a woman dressed as Louisa May Alcott told all about her life. We walked through the rooms, where we heard little anecdotes about the real Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. Look, Amy painted those fireplace decorations! Look, that was Jo's special pillow! Beth's piano! Delightful.

Mike appeared thoughtful as we walked back to the car. "You know," he said musingly, "I thought I wouldn't like that at all. I mean, you know I'm not really into old house tours, but..."

"Yes?" I smiled gently. Bless his heart-- it's not easy admitting that you were wrong.

"...But I hated that so much more than I thought I would."

Right.

And that's when I had an epiphany as well. Dear Reader, it is possible that Little Women is a girl thing.

A Couple of Thoughts on Food

2011-11-11T11:00:00.001-08:00

When you're a traveling family of 5, your dining choices are possibly not quite adventurous or sophisticated enough to warrant your own show on the Travel Channel. But that doesn't mean we don't have a few good tips on the simpler culinary delights to share.

Best Pizza: Ernesto's. So good. SO GOOD. We tried several good pizza spots...but Ernesto's wins.

Best "Kids Love A Bajillion Choices" Spot: Quincy Market. A myriad of food stalls and scheming for a good table in the rotunda-- that's some good fun.

Most Historic Eats: The Union Oyster House. Not only is it America's oldest restaurant, we were seated in JFK's favorite booth-- which means as a bonus, people snap your photo while you enjoy your chowder and crab cakes.

Best Brownies: Flour. And I don't mean "best in Boston," I just mean best, full stop.

Best Chocolate Croissant: Our other neighborhood bakery, South End Buttery.

Best Burgers: Mr. Bartley's, of course.

Best Cannoli: OK, we thought we needed to be fair minded and do a real taste test between our old standby, Mike's, and the North End's other heavy-hitter, Modern. Here are our super scientific results:

Subject takes first bite of Modern cannoli: "Oh, Mike's. Obviously."
Repeat with four other subjects, with same results.
Yeah, it's Mike's.

Behind the Bean's Scenes

2011-11-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

One of the cuter sights on our Boston trip?
This little miss, getting just the right shots for her blog.

The Day I Chose Mitt Romney Over Barack Obama

2011-11-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

From the start, the choice seemed obvious: Barack Obama was so very me.
But somehow, as I listened to Mike describe Mitt Romney, I wondered if I should change my mind. There seemed to be a simple straightforwardness, a wholesomeness to Mitt.
I chose Mitt Romney.

Now, if you've known me for a while, you might be doing a cartoon-style double take, accompanied by a "What the WHAT?"
You know that, while I like Mitt just fine, he just doesn't speak my political language, right?
So what could possibly cause such a thing to happen?

I'll tell you.

Hunger.

And hamburgers.

You see, we were at the burger joint and Harvard institution Mr Bartley's , were the burgers all bear the names of newsmakers and politicians. Even before I saw the name, I knew that the feta and red onion burger was just the thing, and was pleased as punch to note my political consistency-- of course it was the Barack Obama. But that's when Mike started selling me on a Swiss and grilled onion with onion rings--in that moment, the Mitt Romney won me over. Sydney, too-- we ordered three Mitts.

And I'm not going to lie-- I thought it was delicious.

It was Sydney, though, who stopped halfway through hers. "Hey, could you pass the ketchup? The Mitt Romney is good, but a little bland."

Mike passed it with a sigh, "Yeah, that's what everyone says."

Our Boston Digs

2011-11-08T21:01:00.000-08:00

We were very fond our little South End pad-- we kind of wanted to just forget our flight home and move in. Yeah, it might be a little weird when the next renters showed up, but the cute coziness would make an awkward standoff worth it.

History is Handsome

2011-11-07T19:50:00.000-08:00

Something I love about Boston is the Freedom Trail: a 2.5 mile red line running through this very walkable city that takes you past all the historical hotspots. And this place is chock full of "firsts" and amazing sites around every corner. Seriously.

Well, since we've already established that the kids don't like to listen to my lectures, we thought perhaps the Freedom Trail was best left to the professionals. We signed up for a tour with a "historical figure" to show us around town. As I saw the tour ahead of us leave with a kindly Benjamin Franklin type, I figured this was a pretty good move on our part.

Little did I know how good a move it was -- for we were met by this fellow:

Well, hello there.

This was no Ben Franklin, but a tall, golden-voiced dreamboat of a patriot called Dr. Samuel Prescott (the guy who completed Paul Revere's ride). We were all smitten. That's right--Mike is man enough to admit that this guy was a delight.

So suddenly, the kids were all into listening and learning and what have you. Um, where were these kids during my illuminating museum talks, I ask you? Ugh!
I'll tell you what, that guy is just an upstart. A handsome, handsome upstart.

Actually, the Fox Family Dr. Prescott Fan Club did have one holdout: Owen. It takes more than a pretty face to win him over. When he heard we were going to walk around and listen to this guy tell stories, he looked seriously crestfallen.

And yet, even he managed to learn a little, too. In fact, it was a Benjamin Franklin story that caught his interest. Apparently, Ben enjoyed a bit of nudism-- and got busted for skinny dipping in the Frog Pond in the Boston Commons at the tender age of seven.

"Hey!" said Owen, "That gives me an idea..."

Smooth Moves with Owen

2011-11-06T22:00:00.000-08:00

Owen knows that the ladies love humor, especially the sophisticated older girls, like his sister's best friend (let's call her CuteGirl). And when those girls are telling "crossed the road" jokes, it's obviously time to show off his skillz.

Owen: I know, listen to this one! Why did "I love CuteGirl" cross the road?

CuteGirl: Ummmm...I don't know, why?

Owen: To get to me.

CuteGirl: Oh my.

Boo!

2011-11-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

Wicked Witches of the East and West, Happy Ninja, Caesar (please note excellent comb-forward) and Cleopatra

Thoughts on Karma

2011-11-04T18:56:00.000-07:00

So, my Dad is a truly talented teacher. There are so many good teachers, but you know that some just have the gift. My Dad is one of those. So you'd think that his little offspring would be grateful for that, right?

Time for a flashback:
So I remember, when I was a young'un, hiking around the mountain town of Wrightwood one day, and my Dad was telling us all this great stuff about the San Andreas fault, and how to identify jeffrey pines by sniffing their vanilla scented bark, etc. But guess what-- apparently, this little miss wasn't that into it on that day, because I told my Dad to "quit acting all hot."

Charming.

As it turns out, he didn't really find that all that clever or cute.

Now I'm realizing that it might have been helpful if Dad would have preceeded our outdoor education talk with a discussion on the idea of Karma. Because it seems like a little girl who dreams of being a docent, for crying out loud-- a volunteer know-it-all-- might benefit from knowing a little about the concept of what goes around comes around before she throws stones in the "acting all hot" area.

Back to the present.

Our first couple of days in Boston were pretty rainy, so our agenda was rather museum heavy. Everybody was excited about the Museum of Science and the Aquarium:

And I have to admit, they were pretty good-natured about Mom's must sees, too, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner ,which really is such a jewel box of a museum--check out the courtyard!

I knew that for the kiddos sake I needed to keep our art museum time focused and efficient. I had a plan. And guess what! It actually worked pretty well. I think they got a good taste of John Singer Sargent, a little impressionism, and a dash of Dutch Golden Age.

I think they actually had fun.

But perhaps not because of my illuminating commentary.

You see, they had great fun-- and this is where Karma comes in--

staging photos of themselves looking bored while Mom shows them art.

And then laughing and laughing.

Bless their hearts.

Punks.

Sorry, Dad.

P.S. Actually, I should probably discuss the idea of karma with them-- poor Jill will probably get hit the worst. The know-it-all force is strong in that one. As soon as she could talk clearly, she was grabbing parents and grandparents by the hand and giving them tours of historical locations. What goes around...

Facing Your Own Mortality

2011-11-03T18:22:00.000-07:00

Well, if we're going to catch up, I'm going to have to start with this:

I turned 40.
40!
The big 4-0.

And so I did the only thing that seemed right and proper in such a circumstance-- I got the heck out of Dodge.
That's right, I packed up my cares and woes, or as they prefer to be called, "my family," and made a beeline for Boston.

Just look at it-- are you blushing just a little, and maybe getting the giggles? That's because Boston is so effortlessly good-looking that you're getting a crush on it. Don't worry, we all do.

So we rolled into Boston around 8-ish, and taxied to our digs in our South End neighborhood. Now, here I have to make a clarification: the South End is not "Southie" or South Boston. Different neighborhoods. I know I've gained new respect from some who think I went and lived those Damon/Affleck flicks with the hard knocks and crime and grit and what have you. I do not deserve such respect, for the South End is, frankly, just lovely. Artsy, trendy, and very neighborhood-y. I loved it.

Our Neighborhood-- South End!

Our apartment wasn't just cute, but brilliantly located just around the corner from not only public transportation, but also one of Boston's best bakeries, Flour. After a day of travel, the roasted chicken with brie and arugula sandwich tasted pretty much exactly like heaven. And the baked goods? Well, this time they'd have to wait, for we were on a mission.

We took off for a nighttime city walk, destination: the North End. And not just because it's a crazy-charming neighborhood-- it also happens to be the home of Mike's Pastry and their famous cannoli. Listen, we had been craving these little beauties for fully six years, since the last time we were in town. And now, we joined the hordes of people carrying home their twine-tied box, ready to dig in to delicious.

Aah, now that's Boston.
And that, Dear Reader, is how to properly turn 40.

Well, Hello There.

2011-11-02T11:08:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, hasn't it? I abandoned the blog.

Well, guess what! I'm back.

I've been meaning to be back-- we have lots of stuff to catch up on-- but do you know what really inspired me to blog today? Lack of ambition. You see, a post from my lovely friend Korin reminded me that this is November, which we all know is National Novel Writing Month. And Dear Reader, I am not even going to pretend to start that business this year. Lack of ambition.

But, as Korin's blog kindly points out, I CAN participate in the less ambitious but still fun NaBloPoMo-- National Blog Posting Month. A post a day for 30 days...it is entirely possible that I might muster that much ambition. And bonus! Since I'm starting a day behind, I can still claim solid slacker cred. Win/Win.

See you tomorrow!

Stolen: Noise

2011-08-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

So, here I am, at home, and...do you hear that? It's... nothing. Silence.
Because it's BACK TO SCHOOL day, baby!

Yep, our summertime lackadaisical lounge-fest was brought to a halt this morning, as early-morning alarms went off, and the entire family was out of our PJ's long before 11:00. Who knew we could pull this off?

So now I've got TWO girls at middle school-- a 6th grader and an 8th grader. What?! We switched up schools this year, so it's all new for both of them. Jillian kind of wanted me to walk her in today, but Sydney overruled that and declared that she'd take care of business. And you know, that girl does.

Owen is happily in second grade, with the same amazing teacher he had for first. I did walk him in-- and was promptly abandoned, because that kid had things to do and people to see.

Now normally, when things are so nice and quiet, I might take the opportunity to chat up my Mom and Dad. But, as of yesterday, they're a bit busy...

'Ello Gov'nor!

2011-06-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

So sorry to have put off blogging, but I've been studying, you see. Sometimes a girl just needs to brush up on her knowledge of Yorkshire county, doesn't she?

Well, let's see what I've learned. Yorkshire county has been described as the Texas or Australia of England-- the biggest county, with big pride to match (They call it God's Own County). A few Yorkshire stereotypes? Tight with money, friendly, argumentative, and stubborn (Yorkshire-stubborn is an actual term). Don't get all huffy with me-- it's on wikipedia.

Then there's the accent. Now, as a proper American girl, I only recognize the two English accents: the Dick Van Dyke, of course, and that other one for fancy types. But as it turns out, I guess that across the pond, they count a few more, and Yorkshire has its own:

Who knew, right?

Well, Dear Reader, I guess this concludes our British culture lesson for today---Wait, what? Why the heck am I telling you about Yorkshire county?

Sillies! Because my parents got their mission call, bien sûr, to the Leeds England Mission, where they'll be serving in the Young Adult Center. Hooray! It's going to be quite brilliant, I think, because my parents have quite a knack for charming young adult types.

Of course, all this begs the question: Who won the Mega Guess-Off Extravaganza? Mike would like everyone to know that he did-- that he was the original and only one to guess England. But here's the catch. Mike does not read my blog, and did not guess in response to my blog. FAIL!

But you know who did? The lovely Amanda, who guessed Ireland! WIN! Manda, do message me with your address so I can think of some kind of prize, that will probably be rather meh, but kinda pleasant nonetheless!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T09:39:00.000-07:00

Me and my Daddy, Santa Monica Pier 1974

Pin it?

2011-06-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

You guys, I think I'm suffering from Pinterest anxiety. It's so fun, isn't it? Pinning up all of the things that you love on the interwebs! But listen, it's got me worried that I just might not be pinteresting enough, you know? So far, I've managed to pin a couple of things about the fall family adventure we've got in the works, but that's it. I'll keep trying, but I'm seriously considering changing my username to SingleWhiteFemale and just repinning all the cool stuff on Carey's boards. She's dreamy, no?

In the same vein, just more old school, I clicked across this the other day:

So cute, right? It was like a reminder of what just seemed instinctual to a teenage me: collect little odds and ends of things you love! And keep them in a notebook all together! Perfect.

So I think my girls and I might start up some smash books of our own this summer. It seems like a great product--that glue-slash-pen device is pretty snazzy-- but we might brave it pioneer style with any old notebook and glue stick.

Loose Ends

2011-06-09T15:03:00.000-07:00

Let's tie them up, shall we?

First, the winner of the Where in the World are Mom and Dad Going on their Mission? contest is....

still unknown! I am dying here! I call mes parents daily asking them if they've checked the mail yet, for crying out loud. I think they find that not at all annoying.

And secondly, thanks for those who played Two Truths and a Lie.

Now get this...no one caught the lie! As a horrible liar, I am thrilled.

The truths? Being a lab rat? Check. Owning a lab rat? Check.

I must admit that I thought my lie was so painfully obvious that I buried it in the middle of a bunch of truths. Yes, I have had a bunch of superfamous TV appearances. But OF COURSE I was, sadly, NOT an extra in Teen Wolf Too. Really, you should have known that-- because obviously, if I shared screen time with Jason Bateman, you would already know about it. That would be my lead fact anytime I met a person, for heaven's sake.

"Pleased to meet you! I'm Sharla, and you may recall me from Teen Wolf Too starring Jason Bateman."

"Oh, you've got kids? That reminds me of the time I was in Teen Wolf Too starring Jason Bateman."

"...yeah, and let's add fries to that. Oh, and don't forget TeenWolfToostarringJasonBateman!"

I mean, am I right, or am I right?

It's Argument Time with the Fox Children

2011-06-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

Owen: Well, your dog doesn't like you.

Sydney: Your fish doesn't like you.

Owen: The mailman doesn't like you.

Sydney: The grocery store lady doesn't like you.

Owen: Chinese people don't like you.

Sydney: German people don't like you.

Jillian: I think you guys might be racist. No wonder Chinese people don't like you.

Stolen: Truth

2011-06-08T04:30:00.000-07:00

My friend Amy is ever-so-good at keeping up on her blog, and she's provided me with a little inspiration for today: two truths and a lie.

Shall we?

1. I have had an illustrious television and film career. I was:
--the anchor of my high school's fine news program, Sun Devil Report
--an extra (along with the rest of the Drama Club) in Teen Wolf Too
--the ASB representative in our televised school board meetings
--in a clip on our local news about community theater
--on camera for several amazing seconds as a Conan audience member.
That's right, I'm Super Famous!

2. I was a lab rat. When I was wee, and Dad was in his psychology classes, I got to be a little test subject. I have the very vaguest memories of it-- I think they'd see if we'd pick gender specific toys and that sort of thing. (Of course, the Jason Bourne/Sydney Bristow super-spy skills that they surely programmed into me will make an appearance any day now.)

3. I owned a lab rat. Dad was teaching a GATE class where they were doing behavior modification experiments, running mice and rats through mazes-- and he brought one home for me! (What Dad doesn't bring a rat to his baby girl, am I right?) I named him Chipper, but his name quickly devolved into Ratso. He was a kick-bottom little pet. He was way more clever than the mice-- so clever, in fact, that he could escape his habitrail. In a less clever, more ironic stroke, on one of those prison break escapades, he ate rat poison and died.

Any guesses?

I Just Realized that I Must Continue to Blog

2011-05-26T16:15:00.000-07:00

Have you met my parents, Gary and Lorraine?

They are, in my unbiased opinion, rather delightful.

In a move that's keeping all of us in crazy suspense, they have decided to serve a mission for our church, meaning that, for a year and a half, these two will be off gallivanting Heaven Knows Where. Literally. Because Heaven knows, but we don't--and won't, until they get their mission call in the mail any day now. I think it will be awesome for them.

Except for one thing. You see, they're very used to me calling all the time, whenever the mood strikes, whenever a thought enters my head, whenever an opinion needs opining, or a rant needs ranting. Whatever will they do without my constant calls? How are they going to know what I'm thinking at any given moment? And so you see Dear Reader, I need to keep blogging for them.

So hey, what's your guess of where they'll end up? Geographically closest guess WINS! (Wins what, you ask? Respect. And some sort of underwhelming prize-- but a little mail is fun, right?)

OK, Just One More Thing About Books...

2011-04-26T06:20:00.000-07:00

Three book posts in a row? That's just crazy talk!

But I just finished The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley and I'm in love.

Get this: our heroine is a precocious 11 year old girl detective (you know how much I love those!) in 1950's England, whose hobbies include concocting poisons in her laboratory, tearing around town on her bicycle (called Gladys), and solving murders before the authorities have the chance. Perfection!

And I'm ever-so-glad that this is just the first of a series, so that I can get more of Miss Flavia de Luce. Do not miss it. Trust me.

P.S. How delightful is it that Alan Bradley was a first-time (award winning)novelist at 70? Very delightful.

Speaking of Books...

2011-04-21T20:24:00.000-07:00

...we haven't even talked about the Kindle yet, have we?

So listen, Kindle hold-outs, before you roll your eyes and tell me why a Kindle won't work for a delicate genius like yourself, know this: I understand you. I get it. You don't want to lose your hard earned bibliophile cred. You love books, you love the smell of books, you love the texture of the paper, you love the dust jacket, blah, blah, blah...I KNOW! I was one of you.

While I did want to try one out ever-so-much, I harbored serious doubts that the Kindle experience would be authentic enough for me, since I love books in such a deep and serious and highbrow and not at all poseur-pretentious way, right?

But the kindle won me over, for a few reasons.

First, it is a heaven-sent gift to the lazy. What's with those book-making people making me work so hard with all that page turning? Because now I can lay about endlessly! No troublesome shifting around to prop up the book, no arms falling asleep, no movement at all except for my eyeballs and the slightest of thumb flicks to turn a page, until my muscles atrophy if I want. And you know, maybe I DO want. Because I love it.

Second, you get to dress your Kindle! It's like a wee, faceless, flat Barbie. You see, there's an array of skins that protect the precious while simultaneously making it pretty. Mine is styling Venice.

And then there's outerwear. Many like a book-like cover, with built-in pockets and lights, but I like to keep my baby sleek and chic in a silvery sleeve.

Delightful.

Oh, and I guess a third reason might be an endless supply of books--beautiful books!--that you can read wherever, whenever you want in a format that's an absolute pleasure to read--even more enjoyable than you thought it might be!-- well, that's a pretty good reason, too.

Hey, Whatcha Been Readin'?

2011-04-18T00:45:00.000-07:00

A few of my recent reads:

Cleopatra by Stacy Schiff. Such an interesting peek into the life of the legendary queen. Schiff sorts through Cleopatra's history--written almost entirely by her enemies-- to reveal not a femme fatale, but a brilliant political powerhouse.

The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachmann. Loved this one. Really a collection of vignettes, each chapter has us following a different staff member of a struggling English newspaper based in Rome. Sometimes hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking. Read it already.

The Forger's Spell by Edward Dolnick. Oooh, now here's a juicy story, and it's true, to boot. How a mediocre artist passed off his paintings as works of the great Vermeer-- and not just any Vermeers; these were hailed as masterpieces. He made millions and suckered the art world, not to mention a couple of Nazis named Hitler and Goering.

Ape House by Sara Gruen, the story of a group of communicative bonobo apes at a language research lab that gets bombed by activists. Here's the thing: reviews of this book are going to tell you that it's no Water for Elephants-- and that's true, it doesn't have that same magic. But read this book on it's own merit, and you'll enjoy an entertaining and engaging read.

Now, I've nagged you to read Major Pettigrew's Last Stand before, but since our book club is reading it now, I am seizing the opportunity to nag again. This novel detailing the romance of a retired British major and a lovely Pakistani shopkeeper is so ridiculously charming. Don't make me have to tell you again.

Social Networking Isn't Always the Devil...

2011-04-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

... I mean, lots of times, it is. The Devil. Because it makes me spend so very much of my life checking to see what you and those people I knew a little bit in high school just did or thought or bought, and I need to know right now.

But sometimes, it's awesome. Like a week or two ago, when my friend Alysa posted this cool thing on facebook:

OshKosh has this great program, Cranes for Kids, where they'll donate an item of clothing to a child in Japan for each paper crane they receive-- and you can either bring it to a store, mail it to them, or even upload photos to their facebook page. I love this. And so do my kids. So we've been doing a bit of folding at our casa, and Jillian, doing some actual real life social networking, spread the word at school, where they now have a Paper Crane Committee. Sweet.

There's still time to get your fold on! Check the how-to's on the site, and if you're so inclined, fold a few before April 25th.

A Stolen Goods Suggestion

2011-04-09T10:58:00.000-07:00

1. Go to Santa Barbara. Just do it.

2. While there, meet up with this fellow...

...and have him snap your photo. After a lovely family photo session, we are all huge Phillip Van Nostrand fans!

The family consensus is that Phillip Van Nostrand is GOOD-- and that not only is he a crazy talented photographer, he's charming and fun, to boot.

But listen, I knew we'd picked a winner before he ever picked up the camera. Two reasons:

1. I am automatically fond of people whose names are a Seinfeld reference.

2. Now, listen in on this conversation as we set up our session:

Me: "So, what do you think we should do as far as what to wear? We were thinking maybe black?"

Phillip: "Well, the thing about everyone in all black is...ummm, have you seen Awkward Family Photos?"

Brilliant. Why does life not come with a "like" button?

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-07T14:47:00.000-07:00

This Thursday, I'm thankful for:

1. Family. Nic and Sara cooked up a grand scheme for our whole clan to meet up in Santa Barbara for some fun. And you know what? I rather like those folks.

2. The Spanish. Because their influence was just the thing to set off gorgeous Santa Barbara. It's seriously lovely.

A few highlights we enjoyed:

Touring the Mission (It's called the Queen of the Missions-- and did you know that the real-life Karana of Island of the Blue Dolphins is buried there?),
Walking out on Stearn's Wharf, were the kids delighted in making me freak out by inching towards the edges
The beautiful Santa Barbara Zoo-- animals with an ocean view!
The amazing historic Courthouse, an arched and be-tiled Spanish/Moorish wonder. I was particularly delighted to learn that the building has it's own Venice-style Bridge of Sighs, where bad guys would get their last view of the lovely city before being escorted to jail.
Owen's favorite Courthouse moment? seeing an actual handcuffed guy in an orange jumpsuit being escorted to jail-- "Wow! He's a real bad guy?"
Relaxing and kite flying at Hendry's Beach
Lovely State Street strolling
Browsing the beachfront Arts and Crafts Fair
Good food and great conversation!

Weekends are Nice

2011-03-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, it was time once again to hit the gorgeous La Quinta Arts festival (with free tickets, thanks to my docenting. That's right, volunteer swag!). Listen, La Quinta is at it's most glorious during the festival-- it's tough to beat a sunshiny day at the Civic Center park, filled to the brim with lovely artwork. Our favorites this year:

Owen and Jillian were bowled over by Richard Jackson's wildlife photography. They've both decided that's the career for them, and they ponied up their allowance for a little take-home inspiration-- Owen went for a wolf (of course), while Jillian picked up a snowshoe rabbit and a red fox.

Sydney was a fan of Agnes Copeland, who does amazing things with watercolors and collage.

As for me, a Venice scene by Martin Roberts caught my eye. He combines black and white photography with paint for a really great effect.

So, this weekend we decided to keep that fancy/artsy vibe going by taking in a bit of theatuh. Our whole Fox/Barron/Johnson girl posse (Mom, Shannon, Sara, Sydney, Jillian, and I) made a beeline for the ever-fab Wicked. My girls' minds were properly blown, plus they had the bonus of making fun of me for crying when Elphaba defies gravity. And I'm not going to apologize-- that scene is totally dope.

If music be the food of love, play on...

2011-03-18T10:46:00.001-07:00

Now, I may not be a great cook, but I know a good recipe when I see one-- and mixing up a little LL Cool J with Dexy's Midnight Runners? Delicious!

You Scratch My Back, I'll Scratch Yours

2011-03-10T05:34:00.000-08:00

So, have you tried eShakti yet? They've got some really cute dresses, and--amazingly-- size, sleeves, necklines, lengths are fully customizable for just $7.50! I've drooled over their collections many a time, but have yet to take the plunge. I think I need a friend to plunge with.

So check it: if you use this promo code-- SharlaFox53-- you get $20 off your first purchase, and I'll get credited $10. What do you say, should we try it together?

Occasionally I Get a Little Cranky

2011-03-08T08:32:00.000-08:00

I've had a rant brewing for a couple of days now. But here's the thing: I've noticed that very few can pull off political indignation with any charm, and I'm quite sure that I am not one of those few. (Jon Stewart, however, is. He nails it in that clip.) So while I'd love to vent a little steam about what kind of people would try to make teachers--TEACHERS!-- out to be the greedy fat-cat bad guys, and how do they function without their souls? instead I'm going to share a quote from my friend Danielle:

"Anyone who wants to take money from teachers should get punched in the junk. That is all."

Update: Canine Edition

2011-03-06T16:27:00.000-08:00

You may recall, Dear Reader, that a little over a year ago, we were bamboozled into inviting this little fellow into the Fox Family mix. Back then, we didn't stand much of a chance against his evil puppy mind powers.

Well, now he's grown up and all gorgeous... and it's even worse.

I mean, he's really just a big chicken of a dog, so how is it that he gets us to do whatever he wants? He wears us down, that's how. Wears us down with his handsomeness and unflappable good nature. Ugh.

A Lil' Bit About Buddy:

He's kind of a big Valentine. His raison d'être is to love and be loved.
He is ALL ABOUT swimming, and frequently cowabungas into the pool.
He tricked us into letting him sleep in the kids' rooms (see evil puppy mind powers)
When going on walks, he kind of transforms into a Sight to Behold. His glamorous fur ripples as he prances along like he's Best in Show. Mike finds this a little embarrassing. And a little awesome.
I like to say he looks like Justin Bieber, what with his adorable shaggy hair. My girls find this highly insulting...to Buddy. Sorry, Biebs!

Parental Nuturing

2011-03-04T08:36:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, all a child needs is that little spark of encouragement that only a loving parent can provide.

Like this Pearl of Wisdom, courtesy of my Dad:

"I keep going to your blog, but all I ever see is that picture of flowers. BORING."

FINE, Dad.

Blogging to resume shortly.

She Blinded Me With Science

2011-01-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year when we try to come up with new ways to kill plants and do everything at the last minute!

It's really not Sydney's fault that we're doing yet another Water vs. Other Substances experiment. This time she has a partner, and the partner was dead set on it. Oy. We decided this year to give marigolds a break and focus on killing snapdragons. In the past, we've done Water vs. Salt Water, and Water vs. Gray Water, but this year, the partner insisted on Water vs. Coke vs. Apple Juice. Poor plants. Spoiler: water wins.

I talked Jillian into doing a three page science research paper, because that's just easy-peasy! Of course, that's easy for me. I wasn't considering Jillian's special 5th grade ability to say everything that needs to be said about Genetics in a papagraph and a half. We'll be spending some quality time adding in many, many words and experimenting with font sizes and line spacing. In fact, maybe that's a research question right there: What is the largest font size you can turn in to a teacher and still get an A?

Taking Down the Tree

2011-01-05T16:26:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas tree would drive some people to drink.
Theme? No.
Color coordination? Certainly not.

There is, of course, some method to our madness.

The rules of our tree are as follows:

1. Everyone gets a new ornament each year.
2. Ornaments from our travels are a must.
3. Kid-made ornaments rock.

Some new finds on our tree this year:

The Owen-created Gingerbread Boy spoon
The Murano Glass ball from Venice
Mike's manly pheasant
Chinese lantern from San Francisco's Chinatown
The kids' little white owls
Lovely globe gifted from lovely friend
My peacock (oooh, peacock blue!)
Crystal-glazed pottery ball from charming Harmony, CA

Of course, as of night before last, they're all packed away, ready to be rediscovered on tree-decorating night in about 11 months.

I guess it might be a little early to start the hot chocolate.

This Year...

2010-12-30T13:45:00.000-08:00

This Year, I:

Was amazed at my kids growing up too fast, and getting cooler all the time.
Abandoned my blog and left it for dead. And then only revived it to shill for Shutterfly--which was awesome, because I do love them, and it got me to do Christmas cards this year.
Lost my good ol' dog Sam.
Welcomed a new dog, Buddy, to our family.
Took an amazing trip to Italy with amore mio.
Missed our Grandma Harris, who passed away this summer.
Gained a new sister-in-law, David's Lovely Karen.
Enjoyed a lovely Central Coast Family Vacay.
Totally DID NOT write a novel for NaNoWriMo.
Had lots of fun docenting.
Had lots of fun with the Activities Committee ladies-- perhaps too much fun. I knew our little posse would eventually be disbanded, but no more Activities Committees at all?
Started teaching Gospel Doctrine class (eek!).
Scored a cute new nephew, Joshua.
And other various and sundry day-to-day things that seem insignificant on their own, when put all together, the sum total = life is pretty darn good.

Hope your year was lovely, and that the next is lovelier!

Have Yourself a Foxy Little Christmas

2010-12-20T17:52:00.000-08:00

Cool Peppermint Dots Christmas 5x7 folded card

Create beautiful photo Christmas cards at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Stolen: Holiday Excuses

2010-12-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

So here's the thing. I have been notoriously bad at sending out Christmas cards. Which is nuts, because I am all of 39 (!) years old now, and I think it might be time to start functioning like a real grownup, right?

Luckily, I've been browsing around Shutterfly (after finally finishing our summer vacay photo book!), and they've got so many lovely photo card designs that have me thinking this maturity thing might be pretty fun after all. Let's check it, shall we?

I really like the simple-yet-rich thing going on here. It's like saying, "I'm fancy, but friendly."

But, oooh, look how fresh these less-traditional ones look, right?

I like that this one has that great color scheme, and--bonus!-- I'd be better off skipping my family photos and just sending it with this baby. Squee!

This one is great, because not only does it have a really cute, festive look, something about it reminds me of a certain Seinfeld episode. I'm not saying which, but if you're thinking of the same one, please know that I like you very much.

Of course, not all of us can pull off elegant or fresh (or Seinfeld). So something cute like this should be a foolproof choice-- unless people actually feel obligated to answer the question. That could get awkward. But also, hilarious.

With so many designs, I'm feeling downright optimistic about getting cards out this year. In fact, I may even be ready to take the next step: photo calendars for gifts.

But you know what else I love about Shutterfly? Even if I do procrastinate and run into another year of Christmas card FAIL, they've got my back-- behold, beautiful New Years Cards! They may know me better than I know myself.

Superman is a Good Student, and Little Red is Sporty

2010-10-31T14:09:00.000-07:00

Awww, here's my mini Man of Steel, proudly displaying his Student of the Month award. He got "Most Improved", which I think is just a fancy name for the "In Spite of Your Indulgent Summertime Parenting, We've Been Able to Whip This Kid Into Shape" award. Nicely done, school. This is what I pay taxes for.

But check out this one! Little Red Riding Hood was able to pull off a Fox family first by earning a P. E. Student of the Month! Sa-weet!

I do realize that this was accomplished solely through Mike's genes, but that won't stop me from claiming a little credit.

It's almost time for....

2010-10-29T10:34:00.000-07:00

National Novel Writing Month!

Just a couple more days until it's time to start writing with abandon for the month of November. I've been toying with some ideas for different genres and plots, and I've decided to go with Really Awful Young Adult Fiction.

Wish me luck! Or better yet, join me! I know a few of you who should be giving this a go, but I won't mention any names, like Tracy, or Christine, or Lorinda.

Egypt is Hot...

2010-10-29T10:29:00.000-07:00

Just one more Horrible Histories clip. Because I love it so.

Thankful Thursday, Stolen Edition

2010-10-22T13:08:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for:

1. The lovely Ms. L, without whom I might never have discovered the hilarious wonders of the BBC kids' show Horrible Histories. A couple that I rather fancy:

2. The British. Adorable.

DOCENT!

2010-10-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

As we all know, ~~all little girls~~...

...~~some little girls~~

...OK, hardly any little girls share the dream of someday becoming a docent. But, Dear Reader, that very elusive dream was shared by me and at least one other girl.

And now GET THIS. DREAM REALIZED. I'm a DOCENT, y'all.

I marched myself down to the very lovely La Quinta Arts Foundation and asked if they'd be willing to make all my dreams come true, and they obliged. So now I get to go get my Van Gogh and Matisse on with ~~a captive audience~~ thirsty-for-knowledge fourth graders on a weekly basis. This will be RAD.

And as a happy sidenote, my children are delighted that I have found some other children upon whom I can bestow my art history lectures. Win/Win.

The moral? Yes, kids, dreams DO come true. Particularly if those dreams involve being a volunteer.

Stolen: Bad Romance

2010-10-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

You know how we enjoy the Gaga. As if I wasn't going to post this.

You Have a Sweet Spirit

2010-09-28T16:30:00.000-07:00

Hey Mormons, you know how sometimes a stranger just seems to know that you're LDS? They squint their eyes, as if trying to pin down that certain je ne sais quois, that undefinable something that makes you somehow different, as they ask, "You wouldn't happen to be Mormon, would you?"

I think my Sydney may have pinned down that elusive quality. Listen in:

Me: Hey look at this couple on House Hunters. I'm thinking they're totally Mormons.

Sydney: Oh, yeah. They do seem awkward, don't they?

Goods: Books. Mormon Edition.

2010-09-15T08:34:00.000-07:00

OK, confession: I don't really read many LDS books. Especially LDS fiction. There just seems to be something so painfully self-conscious about it that it makes me embarrassed.

Now, an astute person would say, "If you don't read LDS fiction, how do you know if it's embarrassing or not?"

To which I would reply, "Hey astute person, why would you call me out like that on my own blog? Rude."

Anyway, my point is that I came across a review of Bound on Earth by Angela Hallstrom, which basically said hey, this book isn't only not embarrassing, it's good!

I decided to give it a whirl. And guess what? This sister knows her way around some fiction. It's complex. It's multi-layered. It's genuine. It's not just good LDS fiction, it's good fiction, period. Well done, Angela Hallstrom.

While ordering Bound on Earth, Amazon recommended Dispensation, an anthology of the best contemporary LDS short fiction, edited by our same Ms. Hallstrom. Since I seriously heart bits of great writing that I can finish over breakfast, and my curiosity was already piqued by Angela Hallstrom's rep, I picked up this one, too. Another winner!

Of course, I don't want to overdo this LDS fiction thing, right? I've got my smug book snob attitude to maintain. Let's move on to a little non-fiction, shall we?

So, we've all seen Laurel Thatcher Ulrich's quote "Well-behaved women seldom make history." But what I didn't know is that LTU is an LDS feminist Pulitzer Prize winning Harvard professor (Did you know that? Am I the last one?). That is one sweet resumé. I needed to check her out. Well-Behaved Women Seldom Make History recounts how a sentence from a scholarly article became a t-shirt slogan sensation, and then goes into the history of several women who did, in fact, make it. I was really impressed with the importance of women writing their stories-- keep up that blog, girls! The world needs your voice, well-behaved or not.

Updates

2010-09-11T05:07:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce that we have hit a sweet spot. This year looks like it's going to be a good one.

Owen is prepared to rock 1st grade with possibly the sweetest teacher in the world. She's all about hugs, friendship sandwiches, creative projects, and field trips to the zoo. Well, Owen's at least ready for those fun parts. He told me he thinks he might opt not to do his homework this year, because it might be too hard.

You will NOT catch Jillian saying any such thing, because this little 5th grader has turned into the Queen of Responsibility. Seriously, I think 10 might be the golden age-- and her wise and excellent teacher is on to this little secret. She has the kids actually apply for jobs in the classroom. Jill loved pondering her resumé for her position of choice-- Class Messenger-- and of course, she won the job and takes it seriously. In fact, she takes other people's jobs seriously, too. When she found a few papers belonging to other kids in her folder, she disdainfully wondered how the Class Paper Passer Outer ever got the job in the first place.

Sydney is comfortably in the middle of middle school. 6th grade is a huge transition, but as a 7th grader, she's got the system down. Easy breezy. And on the homefront, let me say that 12 is another golden age. Sure, they arrive at a whole new level of tween sass, but that fact is totally mitigated by the fact that she is a fab babysitter. It's dreamy. Mike and I have actually run out of movies to see. Nice.

Poker Face, or Conflict Resolution

2010-08-23T02:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Mike and I were in the car, ready to go--air conditioner cranked, radio playing--when a backseat logistics problem presented itself:

Owen: Noooo! I hate being in the middle!

Sydney: Too bad. You're the littlest.

Jillian: Plus, we called it. Get in the middle.

Owen: Ugh! You guys are dumb!

Mike: Hey, all of you!....

(Are you ready for some fine problem solving paternal wisdom? Wait for it...)

....There will be no talking when Lady Gaga is on.

Silence. All this time I have been underestimating the power of Gaga.

Art History

2010-08-11T22:29:00.000-07:00

Lovely Natalie's post about her little artiste-in-the-making made me all nostalgic about my own kids' early works, and reminded me of a great website . The Global Children's Art Gallery has over 1000 pictures created by kids 12 and under from 70 different countries-- and you can submit your kids' little masterpieces. Then, once they are in the gallery, you can order posters, canvas prints, cards, and even t-shirts. I am partial to a couple of works found on page 83 of the gallery-- this one by a Jillian F., titled So Beautiful!, and created when she was 2 years old.

I'm also a fan of a 5 year old Sydney F., and her watercolor, Street Fair:

Touché

2010-08-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

My girls were in the middle of a little spat.

Jillian: ...But you weren't doing anything, and I was doing all the work, and it was your friend coming over!

Sydney: Oh, come on! I was making the bed and you were just complaining!

Me: Girls! Let's speak kindly please...

Jillian: OK. You are such a delight, Sydney.

Sydney: Did she just insult me with a compliment?

Jillian: It's a little something I like to call a complisult.

Sydney: I've got to admit, nicely played.

We Left Our Hearts...

2010-07-26T08:51:00.000-07:00

Mike and I have fond memories of heading into The City back in his Academy days, but our kids had yet to experience San Francisco. Well, the verdict is in: between the crazy streets, adorable Victorians, rad Chinatown souvenirs, sourdough clam chowder bread bowls, and great museums, the whole Fox fam hearts San Francisco. It's beautiful.

As with every place I love, I like picking the perfect place for us to live when we move there someday. But Owen beat me to it. Please address all future correspondence to him at the California Academy of Sciences. The decor is exactly to his taste: you know, aquarium/rainforest/living roof/planetarium/natural history chic.

Our visit was too short. I was just beginning to get over my panic attacks over those ridiculous-steep streets when it was time to head home. My imaginary driver's side brake is completely shot.

Hey, come on over, and we'll show you the slides from our vacation!

2010-07-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

Ah, modern technology! It makes sitting through someone's vacation pictures so much easier, n'est-ce pas?

-- Tide pools, wild flowers, and gorgeous views at Montaña de Oro

--Kayaking with the Johnsons, followed by a return trip to Frankie and Lola's for lunch.

--Elephant Seals and pier walk at Piedras Blancas and San Simeon

--Heavenly walk along the bluffs at Fiscalini Ranch

--Sweet Springs Nature Preserve

-- Playing chicken with the waves at Moonstone Beach

Cribs

2010-07-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

We loved last year's Big Family Vacay so much that we were ready to do it again before we even got back home. The interwebs have been abuzz for months with our attempts to find just the right homebase for 13 people. Baby sister Sara scored when she found this gorgeous Los Osos home, right around the corner from Montaña de Oro state park and with unbelieveable views of Morro Bay. Sweet!

Playing Favorites

2010-07-23T12:49:00.000-07:00

Whilst driving up, down, and all around our Golden State during family vacay, one thing became clear:
when everything was being created, someone was showing off in California.

Win Some, Lose Some...Win Some

2010-06-05T18:40:00.000-07:00

Parenting WIN: My kid was Student of the Month!

Parenting FAIL: I totally sent my kid to school without realizing his shirt buttoned all crooked.

Reframing that into a Parenting WIN: As a sensitive mother, I understand that these brilliant types can't be constrained by conventional buttoning rules and therefore leave him free to express himself. Now that's some fine parenting.

Whew, that was a close one!

Goods: June

2010-06-04T10:33:00.000-07:00

Hey, it's June. How did that happen?

Well, you know what that means. June means that we have officially made it through May, which means it's time to "book my blog" on Blurb.com, which means dude, I did it-- I'm a trilogy!

Yessssss!

Does anyone know what comes after trilogy? Being an Epic might be pretty cool too.

Thankful Thursday

2010-05-27T00:05:00.000-07:00

Today I'm thankful that I can ALWAYS count on AwkwardFamilyPhotos.com

Bless them.

Goods: Recent Reads

2010-05-20T15:19:00.000-07:00

Books I've loved lately:

Pope Joan by Donna Woolfolk Cross is the story of a brilliant girl living in a time when brilliant girls were seen as unnatural and sinful. Her only chance at learning was to disguise herself as a man, and she took it-- and was eventually elected Pope. The most interesting part? The compelling evidence that this fiction might be based on fact.

Food Rules by Michael Pollan is a tiny little book that packs a big punch. Simple rules (Eat food. Mostly plants. Not too much.) on how we should eat food, as well as lots of food for thought.

How I love Alexander McCall Smith! You couldn't keep me from reading the latest editions of his 44 Scotland Street or the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series-- they are completely delightful. The Unbearable Lightness of Scones had me on the edge of my seat hoping that little Bertie's new therapist might help him score a victory against his overbearing mother, Irene; The Double Comfort Safari Club had me in suspense over how Mma Ramotswe would deal with both a mean old Aunt and the duplicitous Violet Sephotho. If you've not dipped into a McCall Smith book yet, you kind of really MUST.

At the Red House!

2010-05-11T15:07:00.000-07:00

Every once and a while, my girls and I remember how much we love Rhett and Link's local commercials, so we watch and giggle... until those songs are once again playing in a constant maddening loop in our heads. Join us?

Stolen: Rockstar Dreams

2010-05-05T14:35:00.000-07:00

My delightful former BYU roomie Tracy posted this bit of wisdom on facebook today:

Sing out loud in the car even, or especially, if it embarrasses your children.-- Marilyn Penland

I so agree with this; it's, in Oprah-ese, what I know for sure. I physically cannot stop myself from singing in the car, embarrassed kids or not.

But...what's a mom to do if it's a medical emergency?

Owen: Mom. Mom. Please. No singing in the car.

Me: But I like to sing.

Owen: But Mom, you're hurting my ears. And my feelings.

Me: Your feelings?

Owen: Yes, you're hurting my feelings. It's breaking my heart. And if my heart breaks, I'll die. You don't want me to die, I'm your little boy (manipultive eyelash batting).

(Pause)

Me: Hey Soul Sister! Ain't that Mister Mister on the radio, stereo...

Owen: Ugh!

(Psst...Can someone tell me who Marilyn Penland is? Because according to google, it looks like she's pretty much just famous for that quote.)

It's all Greek to Me

2010-05-05T01:38:00.001-07:00

We came home the other night to find that our kids and their friends had the contents of our linen closet spread around the living room, the aftermath of a toga party.

Jillian: We were playing Greek gods and goddesses!

Sydney: I was Athena, goddess of wisdom.

Jillian: I was Artemis, goddess of the hunt.

Owen: Yeah! And I was Jesus!

Stolen Luck

2010-05-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

For the longest time, the only thing I could ever claim to have won was this:

Which, I have to admit, is pretty awesome. But that 7th grade dance was a good long time ago, and so I had come to accept that my winning days were over.

But that was before The Interwebs. My luck has returned, baby-- and how!

I just recently scored not one, but TWO sweet giveaways!

First, there was this cool prize pack on the lovely Amy's Two Cute Blondies:

What a day-maker! Also, any tips on keeping the kids mitts off my go-gurts and wee etch-a-sketch would be appreciated.

And then I won a giveaway on my friend Andrea's fab See it! Love it! Win it! giveaway blog. This time, it was $25 to spend at Oh Baby! Designs. Do hurry over to check out Vera's shop--so many lovelies, it was hard to choose! I went for this dreamy blanket:

My better self tells me that this beauty is going to make me a hit at a baby shower--but my less better self just wants to cuddle up with it, luxurious nap-style. We'll see which self wins this one.

If you haven't yet, do check out Andrea's blog-- a new giveaway every week! Be sure to follow her so you don't miss out on the goods, and steal a little luck for yourself.

Stolen: Sweet Moves (now with bonus content!)

2010-05-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

This time last year, I was doing this:

So you can imagine how nervous I was as La Quinta Ward Idol rolled around again-- what would the Activities Committee Posse dream up for this year?

Pure genius, that's what! Ingenious visionary Lori came up with this:

The Glow-Stick-Man dance, where nobody can see my befuddled expression as I try to remember our Black Eyed Peas routine! Sweet!

And the best part is that anytime someone comments on Adorable Becky's sweet moves, I can just say, "Oh, the one on the right? Yeah, that was me."

It was obvious that our brilliant committee leader and Beat Poet Babe, Jan, (performing the heck out of "I'm So Glad When Daddy Comes Home") was a judge favorite:

She had Randy, Allen, Kara, and Simon in tears.

And of course, I was partial to this little group known as Pride of the Irish:

Stolen Style

2010-04-19T22:27:00.000-07:00

I was ever-so-glad to find this little quiz on the lovely Kristin's blog. I've already spent way too much time playing on Sproost.com. Click on over and see if they "get you"-- Kristin said they pegged her, and I think they may have read my mind, too.

This is me:

50% Modern Elegance
33% Classic
17% French Eclectic

Modern Elegance
Variety is the spice of life! And nowhere is this truer than in the design of your home... You either love contemporary but wish it wasn't quite so cold and austere; or perhaps you've always been drawn to more traditional rooms but are now at a point in your life where you'd like to pair down a bit or want to create a less cluttered and busy space. Transitional Style is here to marry those apparent contradicting designs. And guess what — it's the contradictions that make the mix of contemporary and traditional so successful. The result is an elegant room that appeals to young and old alike. A sofa with modern lines blends seamlessly with a pair of traditional chairs. New fabrics work so well on antique pieces. It turns out that modern art looks even more exciting above a collection of traditional pieces. The room feels simple and sophisticated, elegant and hip.

The quiz does seem to be a little temperamental-- you know those artistic designer types!-- so be patient with it.

Goods: Books

2010-04-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

I know what you're thinking. I've been back from Italy for awhile now--surely I must do something besides daydream about my trip all the time, right? Well, of course I do. I've also read a book or two.

So listen, when you're the average suburban Mormon mommy, and you find yourself tearfully relating to a 38 year old, potty mouthed, heroin ravaged, Bronx hooker-slash-grandmother who has passed that legacy on to her daughter-- well, you know that's some good writing. And Tillie's story is just one layer of the beautiful symphony that is Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann. Amazing.

I loooove Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson. Loooove. So, when I say that the hero is a stiff-upper-lip 68 year old retired British military man, what do you automatically think of? Romance, naturellement! This is a deeply charming novel, with wit to spare...and it's a treat to read. So treat yourself, and read it, post haste! Jane Austen would approve.

I've just started on Presidential Courage-- I've read the Washington, Adams, and Jackson chapters and now we're on to Lincoln. It's inspiring to see how those who had the strength to do what was right instead of what was popular have shaped the world-- but my favorite part has been realizing that the American political scene always been just as crazy and divided--scratch that, crazier!--than it is right now.

Artistic License

2010-04-12T13:44:00.000-07:00

The most amazing thing about Venice is that it exists. I love it's exquisite dreamlike quality--a shimmering maze of exotic lacy buildings that look as if they are ever-so-slowly melting into the sea. I love the hidden surprises, the way a tiny dark alley suddenly opens into the loveliest of squares, the quick glimpses into garden courtyards and luxurious silk draped windows lit by Murano chandeliers.

I do love a good souvenir of glorious places, so I was delighted when we found an artist near Piazza San Marco painting some glowy little canal scenes that were perfectly Venice. He was one of those soft spoken, earnest types, and he ever-so-patiently helped me pick out just the right pair.

Back home, I was glad that I remembered to get his card so that I could try to google his website. Surely it would feature a sampling of his work, a soft-focus,contemplative picture of the artist at the easel, brush in hand, and a blurb about how glittering, romantic Venice provides infinite inspiration for his work.

But alas, no artist's website.

Wait a minute, though-- we're in luck. I did find a facebook page:

Awesome.

Home Sweet Home, or Hotel Schmotel

2010-04-12T09:49:00.000-07:00

When traveling, Mike and I have become converts to apartment living, for a few reasons--
mostly having to do with our individual brands of crazy.

For Mike, it's all about the claustrophobia-- a hotel room that I might consider charming, he considers being trapped in a tiny closet at the top of a tiny staircase and how the heck do I get out of here?

For me, an apartment means I totally get to pretend that I'm not just a tourist-- I live there. I love having my own little door, my own little street, my own little neighborhood, my own corner bakery where I pick up beautifully wrapped pastries, my own clothesline where Mike can hang laundry, and my own kitchen, where I can avoid cooking--just like home! Basically, apartments help me stay happily delusional. Again, just like home.

Hands Down

2010-04-10T14:51:00.000-07:00

So we're snapping a pic in St. Mark's Square...

when we're approached by some cute little Luxembourg students saying they're working on a magazine project, and can they ask us a question?

Umm, if there's one thing I love to give, it is my opinion. Heck yes, you may ask me a question.

Luxembourg student, or as I like to call her, LuxStu: We are surveying people from different countries, and want to know what body part you think best represents your culture.

And here I pause, as Mike and I exchange glances-- because listen, I don't care how mature you are, that question makes the naughtier parts pop into your head first, right?

Me: Hmmm... I'd have to say hands.

LuxStu: Ah, interesting! Palm up, or palm down?

Me: Palm down.

At this point, they take a picture of me and my palm down hands...and then thank us and go on their merry way--completely missing the part where I give an in-depth analysis of why. Ugh! That is the best part of giving my opinion.

Luckily for me, Mike knows me, and so we discussed the ins and outs of the LuxStu question long after those kids had tossed their clipboards aside to go flirt with Italians, I'm sure.

My reasoning? More than intellect or art, our country was born out of an active, pioneer, calloused hands, can-do hard work heritage. Palm up represents supplication, and that's not us. We're palm down, because it signifies action, generosity-- and every now and then, maybe a little take-more-than-our-share consumerism.

So now I'm curious--you're up. What body part best represents your culture, and why?

Florence. Sigh.

2010-04-09T16:04:00.000-07:00

You know a city is really gorgeous when it manages to single handedly drag civilization out of the dark ages.

Lovely.
I'm just sayin'.

If It Ain't Baroque, Don't Fix It

2010-04-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

Kicking up our heels in Italy presents one problem: with American politics faded into a vague concept in the corners of our minds, what would this red/blue couple debate over?

But listen, who needs the likes of Glenn Beck and Jon Stewart when you have Renaissance Man Michelangelo and Baroquetastic Bernini?

One of the big highlights of our trip was visiting The Davids-- Michelangelo's at Florence's Accademia, and Bernini's at the fantastico Galleria Borghese in Rome.

Both left me a bit breathless--they are capital-A, gasp-inducing Amazing.

But when push comes to absolute shove...if we have to pick one...well, it turns out that I'm Team Michelangelo, while Mike is Team Bernini. Of course. Exactly the way we like it.

Speaking of street performers...

2010-04-07T17:09:00.000-07:00

What could be more romantic than a nighttime stroll around the incredibly beautiful Florence?

Only a nighttime stroll around Florence with this lovely girl's heartbreaking voice as your soundtrack:

I'm not going to name names, this girl allegedly made a couple of people get all misty.

Maybe less romantic, but still sentimental faves, this little musical group was singing right under our window:

It's not everday one gets an Italian Mormon Mish Serenade!

Takin' it to the Streets

2010-04-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

You know what I love? A good street performer, which Rome's beautiful Piazza Navona delivered a'plenty.

Do you know what I possibly love more? A bad street performer.

I kept thinking there might be a punchline, but that was it. That WAS the punchline. And that...

...so deserves a euro.

So Happy Together

2010-04-05T08:12:00.000-07:00

Are you noticing a theme in these pictures?

Yes! We got so many shots together, instead of looking like we took separate, sad, individual vacations to Italy.

Boy, we must have had to be friendly, and ask a lot of people to snap us, right?

Au contraire, Dear Reader! Please know that we would never stoop to friendliness.

Instead, we picked up one of these little beauties...

...and clicked away with abandon.

The one thing we did have to get over was a bit of conspicuousness, because people notice this thing and want one. In fact, standing in the midst of the glorious ruins of the Roman Forum, one kid saw our X-Shot and said "Check that out! That's the coolest thing I've seen all day!"

Oh, dear boy-- let's not tell your parents how much they could have saved on a school trip to Italy, if they had just had this link!

Goods: Scavi

2010-04-03T09:43:00.000-07:00

Vatican City is incredible, to be sure.

The sheer awesomeness of St. Peter's Basilica. The vast wealth of art treasures. The thrill of turning a corner to find Raphael's School of Athens. The bowl-you-over-with-Michelangelo's-divine-genius Sistine Chapel, and the delicate poignancy of his Pietà.

Wow.

But actually, the highlight of our visit took place underneath all of that. In fact, a couple of levels directly underneath the high altar of St. Peter's.

We went on the Scavi Tour. Doesn't just the name sound cool? Scavi.

Scavi is italiano for excavation, and in this case, refers to the excavation beneath the foundations of St. Peter's--the long forgotten, mostly pagan necropolis where a band of then-illegal and persecuted Christians secretively buried the crucified Peter. The city of the dead was buried for centuries under the foundations of two basilicas-- the first St. Peter's and the current "new" one built in the 1600's. The necropolis was only rediscovered and excavated in the 1940's-- and what they found was amazing: streets of wonderfully preseved family tombs with mosaics representing Roman and the earliest of Christian symbols. And most significantly to the Church, the original grave of Peter, with an inscription on the wall reading "Peter is Here"and bones, when tested, found to be consistent with what is known of him (robust, 70-ish man, from the first century, with no foot bones--common among those crucified upside down).

WOW.

To preserve the archeological site, only about 120 people are allowed in per day, so you have to email the Ufficio Scavi well in advance, and just cross your fingers. I was disappointed at first that I received no reply--which usually means you're out of luck. I decided to try once more, and was delighted when kind, helpful Paolo wrote me back from his home email address, telling me to send a different email-- my ISP wasn't accepting their replies!--and we were in.

Once there, you have to show your pass to the Swiss Guard (oooh, so secret agent-y!) to be admitted to the Scavi Office, and then they guide you through sleek, passcoded glass doors into...a long, long time ago. It was a such physical thrill to be standing on that ancient street, next to ancient walls, peering into these rooms created for families to continue on in their afterlife.

Afterward, both Mike and I waxed eloquent: "That was so cool."

Naturally, there are no photographs allowed,

but there is an amazing virtual tour here.

I Heart Roma

2010-04-02T19:55:00.000-07:00

So, Mike says to me, "You know, in the book it says that some people don't like to go to Rome because it's not pretty."

My reply? Wordless sputtering.

Because What the What?!

But then I realized, some people are right. Rome isn't pretty.

Rome is flat out gorgeous.
Rome has the self-assured virility of a place
that's conquered the whole world a few times over.
Rome is dead sexy. Rome has swagger.

Whew-- is it hot in here, or is it just Rome?

Stolen: My Head

2010-04-01T15:55:00.000-07:00

So, physically, I've been home for a week now, but my head is definitely still in Italy.
But apparently, I am not the first person to experience this....

Tee hee. :)

I'm hoping to channel my Italian daydreaming into a blog post or two...
perhaps after a gelato and nap.
Man, they know how to live.

Flashback Friday: Two Years Ago

2010-03-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

So, almost exactly two years ago I went to Italy with my 'rents and my sister, and threw some coins into this fountain. Tradition says that if you do, you'll return to Rome.

Guess what...IT'S TRUE.

Turns out, after my sweetheart heard the glowing reports, he thought he might need to go have a look-see for himself. Naturally, he wanted a tour guide, and I have graciously offered to go along. Just one of the sacrifices I make for love. Plus, I cannot thwart the magic of the Trevi Fountain Coin Toss. Really, I have no other choice.

Way more trip reports than you want to hear coming soon!

A Belated Gung Hay Fat Choy

2010-03-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

So how's the Year of the Tiger treating you so far? Owen thinks it is the awesomest year possible.

Goods: Freudian Adorableness

2010-03-08T20:51:00.001-08:00

Owen: Mom, when I'm a grownup, I think we should get a new house.

Sydney: When you're a grownup you'll get your own house. You won't live with your mom.

Owen: Of course I will. She's my bay-beh.

And that is why Oedipus is the cutest of the complexes.

Stolen: Me, Blogging.

2010-03-03T22:19:00.000-08:00

You know, back in the day, I used to blog now and then. It was pretty fun. Maybe I'll try it again sometime.

Goods: The "Why the Heck Does the U. S. Only Have Cadbury Chocolates at Easter?" Edition

2010-02-16T13:43:00.000-08:00

A Stolen Goods tip: The savvy girl will always try to have a thoughtful friend in Australia.

Because then you just might open your mailbox to find a box of these:

...from a lovely lady like this.

Merci beaucoup, Karena-- what a delicious surprise!

And now you'll excuse me as the effects of chocolate coma set in....

Stolen: My Brother's Heart

2010-02-03T13:36:00.000-08:00

Ah, February. The month of amour. And listen, I've got just the thing to get us all in the romantic Valentine spirit.

Just click on over here to cast your vote for this cute couple--my brother David and his sweetheart, the Lovely Karen-- to win a gorgeous dream wedding.

"But wait," some of you might say, "What about me? I hate Valentine's Day and spit upon gooey love stuff. What's in it for me?"

To this reader, may I gently point out that each vote for David means a nail in the coffin of the lovey-dovey hopes of all the other couples. Sorry, Jason and Britt! Take that, Megan and Shaun! See? Win/win.

Goods: Six!

2010-02-02T19:32:00.000-08:00

It was a big day for my little groundhog today--
six years old!
Happy Birthday Owen!

A Steal: Mormon-Girl Inside Joke Edition

2010-02-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

You know what's my favorite? Elephants. You know what else? The 13th A. of F.
So this t-shirt from MollyGear was a no-brainer:

And get this: at just $10, it fit into my extremely cheap funny t-shirt budget-- making it virtuous, lovely, of good report, and praiseworthy. But there are only a handful left-- do click over post-haste to get yours!

Stolen: January

2010-02-01T11:06:00.000-08:00

This January was a lovely month chock full of blog-worthy stuff, but it somehow got away from me! Time for a recap:

Our Annual January Disneyland Day! It couldn't have been better: perfect weather, no lines, and clam chowder bread bowls. Owen was old enough this year to join in all the fun--except for the Tower of Terror. There was no chance he was going on that one. And as usual, we were too busy having fun to take pictures.

The Annual Girlfriend Getaway! This year was new and improved, since old pal Kim finally had to sense to join us. Our itinerary: lots of talking, lots of shopping, lots of good eats, and great seats for The Lion King (which blew my mind, by the way. Gorgeous!). I'm already looking forward to next year.

You know what they say: it's just not a girl trip until you pose in front of a giant glowing tiger.

Sydney's Birthday. My baby turned 12 years old-- and is delightful beyond her years. Love that girl. The girls from church started her year off right by kidnapping her for a yogurt run. At home we partied her up with new clothes (at least we know what to get her these days!) and delicious mom-made cake that seemed to amuse my family greatly. I called it an Oreo Cookie Cake, but they called it the San Andreas Fault Cake. Hmph.

Sam's Birthday. Sydney and Sam share a birthday--he turned 11 this year. And with what can only be considered poetic flair, Sam let us know that this was also the day for him to move on. He had style, that one.

Philosophic Musings: Our recent experiences with canine mortality have set Owen pondering on what he calls "going to God."

Owen: Mom, are we going to die and go to God?

Me: Yes, someday. But not until we're really old.

Owen: Will Sam be there with us?

Me: Yes.

Owen: What about friends? Will Lucas be there too?

Me: Yep.

Owen: Yesssss! Mom, does Santa take presents to God?

Me: I don't think God needs presents.

Owen: No, Mom, everyone needs presents. I guess you don't know everything about God.

Me: That's true.

Owen: Mom, why haven't you gone to God yet?

Me: Well, because I'm not really old yet. I'm all grown up, but I'm not really old.

Owen: Yes you are Mom. Just look at you.

Me: (deep sigh)

Riverdance. Mike took me on a date to this tap-tacular show at the fabulous Pantages theater. Loved it!

need

Last but not least, of course, the arrival of our ~~fur-wrapped terror~~ beloved animal companion, Buddy.

Whew! I need a post-January nap.

Stolen: A CuteOverload.com Post

2010-01-26T22:44:00.000-08:00

I guess one might say that some decisions made when you're really missing your good ol' dog of eleven years are not the wisest....but they very well might be the most adorable:

Sure, Buddy here is running me ragged with his late night crybaby routine and piddle clean up duty-- but he's also hypnotized me with his ridiculous-cute mind powers. I mean, he's a furball with teddy bear paws and that face and he loves to curl up on my feet and breathe his little puppy breaths. I can't be in the same room without resorting to babytalk. He's diabolical.

Goods. No, scratch that. The Best.

2010-01-08T18:11:00.000-08:00

You know what's on my shopping list?

Peanut butter.
Ground beef.
Fragrant cheese.
Basically, anything this old boy's...

...heart desires.

Because a visit to our favorite ecclesiastical leader-slash-veterinarian has confirmed that our Sammy has entered the homestretch. You know, we don't have a lot of time left with him, but we're going to make darn sure he enjoys it in decadent style.

Man. I'm really going to miss my dog.

Flashback Friday

2010-01-08T18:05:00.000-08:00

Goods: Sydney

2010-01-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

You know, I don't craft. I don't sew, knit, crochet, quilt, cross stitch, or embroider. I don't scrapbook, stamp, or make cards. I don't faux-finish, distress, or make or use any form of vinyl lettering. I cook only for survival. I only bake because that's the only way to get fresh-baked cookies. I am one big case of womanly arts FAIL.

Except...

I do have a few little projects of which I'm rather proud. This one, for instance, is turning out beautifully:

Oh, I am good.

Goods: New Year

2010-01-01T15:25:00.000-08:00

Here's something I enjoyed about 2009-- it was very nice, but not too flashy, thereby saving me from another braggy year-end round up like I had in 2008. Thanks for playing it cool, '09.

Now, onward to 2010! I've got one, and only one resolution. Because I'm going to need to focus. Hard.

You see, over the holidays, Mike and I were lounging about one evening, enjoying lovely tunes, sweet scents, happy wishes, and delicious treats from some of the very awesome, very lovely, very thoughtful people we know, when suddenly Mike says: "Hey, maybe we should become nice people."

I paused, waiting for the moment when we burst out in evil laughter, but then I realized-- he was not completely joking!

And upon reflection, I had to admit that it wasn't the craziest plan he's ever made.

But listen, I'm not going to become all thoughtful in one fell swoop, right? What I need is some sort of baby step, to ease me into it. And that step, dear reader, is the birthday card. I'm going to become a sender-of-birthday-cards person! Because, let's face it, I'm not going to just turn thoughtful overnight, but I can affix a stamp, for heaven's sake.

Now, Mike is the teensiest bit doubtful that I will be able to pull this off, but it is that very doubt that will drive me to succeed. Because what better motivation to be a thoughtful person than the opportunity to prove the love of your life wrong?

So, I will be starting small, making sure to send birthday cards to all of those people in my life to whom a normal person with a conscience would already be sending cards. And I'd like to up the ante by sending them to five Stolen Goods readers, too-- just to rub it in to Mike that little extra bit. So I'm going to need five of you to volunteer in the comments, and send your birthday and address to smbfox at msn dot com, s'il vous plait.

This resolution is going to rock, because not only will I be a wee bit nicer-- it does not involve exercise. Yesssss.

Stolen: Certainty

2009-12-20T07:58:00.000-08:00

My Owen has suddenly turned philosopher. This year, he made me a Christmas card that contemplates the very nature of love, of happiness, of family, of self-- and whether we can ever really be sure of any of it:

Dear. Mom?
Merry Chr?
Love?
OwenFox?

It is also possible that he just learned some new punctuation.