239
Charlie and I spent the last four days in Los Angeles, what may very well become our new home in just a few months. We stayed in the W hotel in Westwood and spent our time wondering around the town and the UCLA campus. Charlie and I had never really spent much time in LA so this was our first taste of the city of Angels. The take away... we are both pretty terrified. It is funny that two people that spend so much time traveling are so worried about such a little move. It is just a short flight back to the Bay Area. When I think about it though, it's not the moving that terrifies us, it's the staying. When Charlie starts grad school we are somewhat committed to staying put for at least five years. Combine that with the fact that we know almost no one in the LA area and you get a bit of anxiety.
The good news is that I will still have access to Northern California and all of my lovely clients. The area around UCLA and the campus itself is really nice and I am sure we will have no problem starting a new life in Southern California. I just have to think of this as expanding my business to Southern California, not really leaving Northern California. There are a ton of great opportunities, we will be fine. Right?
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Back to School
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234
It has been a while since I have done any food photography. This is partially because I am minus one kitchen. Charlie and I moved out of our old flat and are currently in limbo until we move to LA. So, without a kitchen I have been unable to do too much cooking. However, these appetizers were just too good to pass up. I am in Austin staying with family friends. Carol came over with the ingredients with this lovely treat, they were AMAZING! Here is the recipe if you are interested:
Grilled Mushroom Appetizers:
Ingredients:
18 large button mushrooms
1/2 cup Olive oil, separated.
1/2 TBS minced garlic
1 TBS chopped fresh rosemary
1/3 cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
6 fully cooked bacon slices, chopped
1 cup shredded swiss cheese or any other variety
1. Spray vegetable grilling rack with no stick spray and set aside
2. Remove mushroom stems from caps, chop and set aside. Cut a small slice off the top of each mushroom so they do not tip over during grilling. Combine mushroom caps and 1/4 cup olive oil in a large mixing bowl and toss to coat. Place mushrooms cup side up on a large baking sheet or pan.
3. Combine chopped mushroom stems, garlic, remaining olive oil, rosemary, olives, bacon and shredded cheese in mixing bowl. Stuff mushroom caps with 1 1/2 to 2 TBS mushroom mixture.
4. Prepare Grill for cooking (375 F). Place mushrooms on the prepared grilling rack and grill for 5-10 minutes with the lid closed. Serve warm.
dd:
I can almost taste these! They are beautiful. Now I'm hungary!
(05.15.10)
Sara Atkins:
If only you did!! You would have loved them! I will make them for the next Tapas party!
(05.15.10)
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From Carol's Kitchen
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216
This is a post that I put up on Mother's day while I was in South Africa in 2005. Today I am enjoying a Mother's Day while sitting right next to my mom. I thought I would re-post this old blog for the fun of it. In fact, I may make a habit of re-posting old blog posts every once in a while. It is fun to look back and see where I was and what I was feeling. So, enjoy!
Happy Mothers Day Mama!!!
I was going to send you a letter in the mail but I was afraid it wouldn't get to you on time, so instead you get a posting on my site...I guess that is the way it goes when you are twelve thousand miles away from someone. I could go on and on about how much I love and appreciate you, but I thought it would be better to compile a list of just a few of the many things I have learned from you in the last 23 years. (In true Sara fashion...when did I start this crazy list making fanaticism??)
1. It's easier to catch a bee with honey than with vinegar...this has proven to be true time and again!
2. Never underestimate the power of a hug (giving or receiving).
3. Ibuprofen fixes everything.
4. Your brothers may smell bad and pick on you but they will always be there for you.
5. If you starve your guests they will eat anything.
6. Even if you are just going to take out the garbage, brush your hair and put on some lipstick!!! You never know whom you will meet on the way! (I know it seems as though I haven't listened to this one...)
7. With number six in mind, don't ever be afraid to get your hands dirty.
8. Why use a recipe when you can wing it??
9. Don't forget to send thank you notes, people really do appreciate it.
10. No dinner is complete without a tablecloth.
11. Never be afraid to speak your mind and stand up for your morals, if it bothers someone, they probably needed to hear it the most.
12. When cooking, whenever possible toss the spoon and use your hands.
13. Always leave a clean house; it makes it much better to come home to.
14. Always lock your doors.
15. If you want to talk to someone about something really important, do it in the car... that way they can't get away.
16. Little kids love to receive gifts, always try to have something for them to unwrap.
17. Animals are good for the soul (my soul is doing great!)
18. Take time to smell the flowers, and if no one is looking...steal them.
19. If your husband is acting up...or even if he isn't, run him over with the car.
20. Friendships take work and need to be maintained.
21. You will have a better day if you are wearing matching bra and underwear.
22. Mom is always right.
23. A girl can never have too many purses or shoes.
24. It's the little things that count; let people know that you are thinking about them.
25. There is nothing better than a mom made bed.
26. Life is too short to behave all the time, break the rules every once in a while.
27. Happiness is a walk on the beach with your mom and your dogs.
28. Always say please and thank you.
29. Let people do things their way and then fix it when they aren't looking.
30. The easiest way to a man's heart is through his stomach.
31. Don't take life too seriously
32. Never give up on your dreams (I know this sounds cliché, but if it weren't rue I wouldn't be in Africa right now)
33. No matter where you go or what you do, your family will always be where your heart is.
34. A smile and a hug can do wonders for a broken heart.
35. You never get too old to need your mom.
36. If it won't matter a year from now, don't fret.
37. If the dog has fleas, burn the house down.
38. Everyone needs a passion.
39. Nothing helps to mend a broken heart like staying busy.
40. Your day will run more smoothly if you make your bed in the morning.
41. Animals work wonders to ease an aching heart.
42. Things don't matter, people do
43. Don't cry over spilled milk
44. Nothing like a pedicure to brighten your day!
45. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.
46. You may not always like your family, but you will always love them.
47. No one else is going to live you life for you, take chances.
48. Everything in moderation.
49. Sometimes it is ok to sit on the couch with nothing but a jar of peanut butter and a spoon.
50. Don't let your mistakes go to waste, learn from them!
51. You should try everything at least once.
52. Flowers and candles make a home more inviting.
53. You can get through just about anything, just give it time.
54. When things aren't going as planned, improvise!
55. A squeaky wheel gets oiled.
56. You can never have too many dishes
57. You appreciate the things in your life more when you have to work for them.
58. Every cloud has a silver lining
59. You can't wait around for someone else to fix things, do it yourself.
60. You are never too old to learn something new.
61. Your mom really can be your best friend.
Mom, I have never met a stronger or more loving person, I am so lucky to have you in my life as my mom, friend and teacher. So many women are mortified when they see themselves becoming their mothers, I am honored. You have lead your life with such grace and have taught us kids so much about what really matters in life. You keep us honest and we will forever be indebted to you for the life lessons you have taught us. I hope you have a wonderful day; I wish I could be there with you! Have a pedicure and an artichoke and think of me!!!
Happy Mothers Day Mama!!!
I was going to send you a letter in the mail but I was afraid it wouldn't get to you on time, so instead you get a posting on my site...I guess that is the way it goes when you are twelve thousand miles away from someone. I could go on and on about how much I love and appreciate you, but I thought it would be better to compile a list of just a few of the many things I have learned from you in the last 23 years. (In true Sara fashion...when did I start this crazy list making fanaticism??)
1. It's easier to catch a bee with honey than with vinegar...this has proven to be true time and again!
2. Never underestimate the power of a hug (giving or receiving).
3. Ibuprofen fixes everything.
4. Your brothers may smell bad and pick on you but they will always be there for you.
5. If you starve your guests they will eat anything.
6. Even if you are just going to take out the garbage, brush your hair and put on some lipstick!!! You never know whom you will meet on the way! (I know it seems as though I haven't listened to this one...)
7. With number six in mind, don't ever be afraid to get your hands dirty.
8. Why use a recipe when you can wing it??
9. Don't forget to send thank you notes, people really do appreciate it.
10. No dinner is complete without a tablecloth.
11. Never be afraid to speak your mind and stand up for your morals, if it bothers someone, they probably needed to hear it the most.
12. When cooking, whenever possible toss the spoon and use your hands.
13. Always leave a clean house; it makes it much better to come home to.
14. Always lock your doors.
15. If you want to talk to someone about something really important, do it in the car... that way they can't get away.
16. Little kids love to receive gifts, always try to have something for them to unwrap.
17. Animals are good for the soul (my soul is doing great!)
18. Take time to smell the flowers, and if no one is looking...steal them.
19. If your husband is acting up...or even if he isn't, run him over with the car.
20. Friendships take work and need to be maintained.
21. You will have a better day if you are wearing matching bra and underwear.
22. Mom is always right.
23. A girl can never have too many purses or shoes.
24. It's the little things that count; let people know that you are thinking about them.
25. There is nothing better than a mom made bed.
26. Life is too short to behave all the time, break the rules every once in a while.
27. Happiness is a walk on the beach with your mom and your dogs.
28. Always say please and thank you.
29. Let people do things their way and then fix it when they aren't looking.
30. The easiest way to a man's heart is through his stomach.
31. Don't take life too seriously
32. Never give up on your dreams (I know this sounds cliché, but if it weren't rue I wouldn't be in Africa right now)
33. No matter where you go or what you do, your family will always be where your heart is.
34. A smile and a hug can do wonders for a broken heart.
35. You never get too old to need your mom.
36. If it won't matter a year from now, don't fret.
37. If the dog has fleas, burn the house down.
38. Everyone needs a passion.
39. Nothing helps to mend a broken heart like staying busy.
40. Your day will run more smoothly if you make your bed in the morning.
41. Animals work wonders to ease an aching heart.
42. Things don't matter, people do
43. Don't cry over spilled milk
44. Nothing like a pedicure to brighten your day!
45. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.
46. You may not always like your family, but you will always love them.
47. No one else is going to live you life for you, take chances.
48. Everything in moderation.
49. Sometimes it is ok to sit on the couch with nothing but a jar of peanut butter and a spoon.
50. Don't let your mistakes go to waste, learn from them!
51. You should try everything at least once.
52. Flowers and candles make a home more inviting.
53. You can get through just about anything, just give it time.
54. When things aren't going as planned, improvise!
55. A squeaky wheel gets oiled.
56. You can never have too many dishes
57. You appreciate the things in your life more when you have to work for them.
58. Every cloud has a silver lining
59. You can't wait around for someone else to fix things, do it yourself.
60. You are never too old to learn something new.
61. Your mom really can be your best friend.
Mom, I have never met a stronger or more loving person, I am so lucky to have you in my life as my mom, friend and teacher. So many women are mortified when they see themselves becoming their mothers, I am honored. You have lead your life with such grace and have taught us kids so much about what really matters in life. You keep us honest and we will forever be indebted to you for the life lessons you have taught us. I hope you have a wonderful day; I wish I could be there with you! Have a pedicure and an artichoke and think of me!!!
Lianna:
That zebra photo might be one of my most favorites of yours so far, it's amazing!
(05.09.10)
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Blog Archive: Mother's Day
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215
Oh my goodness. Cindy commented on the baby elephants the other day. I responded with something about how baby anything makes us ladies melt. Well ladies... prepare yourselves to puddle up. I am pretty sure there is nothing cuter than a baby lion cub. Their miniature roar, adorable paws and wobbly walk. I am in love.
These shots were taken after Jess and I left Addo Elephant park. Jess and I decided to stop at the Daniell Cheetah Breeding Farm padstal between Uitenhage and Jansenville on the R75. We were in for a treat, they were recently given two lion cubs. Our tour of the farm ended in the den with the two little balls of fluff.
Lianna:
OMG that is the cutest! Yes, I just used OMG. Deal :)
(05.07.10)
Cindy:
Awwww!!! You are right Sara....I am in love. They are absolutely adorable!!!
(05.07.10)
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Lion Cub Cuteness
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211
Our next stop was just a few hours down the road at Jeffery's Bay (J-Bay). We found a nice place to have lunch and more importantly, a milkshake. Took a bit of a snooz on the beach and jumped back in the car for our final push to our destination, Addo. Once again we were unsure of what we would find. We arrived in a lush, amazing setting. We were greeted by two beautiful german shepherds and the owner, Dave. We were shown to our room and Jess and I were in a bit of shock. We were pretty sure that we were being shown the wrong room. There is a beautiful view over looking a river. The room itself was beautiful from the outdoor shower to the porcupine quill lampshade. We were both pretty certain this was not in our budget. As it turned out, we had been upgraded. The rooms we were supposed to have were being renovated and as a result we got bumped into what looked like the best room in the place.
The next morning we awoke and drove to the game park. Addo Elephant Park lived up to it's name. We saw more Elephants than I could have ever imagined. We spent the day gnawing on biltong and dried fruit.
We finished the day with a night drive. Unfortunately, being that it is night, there are not many pictures to show for it. However, I did finally get to see the elusive porcupine. Three of them in fact. That alone made our little drive a success.
Stay tuned for the final installment of Recipe for a road trip!
The next morning we awoke and drove to the game park. Addo Elephant Park lived up to it's name. We saw more Elephants than I could have ever imagined. We spent the day gnawing on biltong and dried fruit.
We finished the day with a night drive. Unfortunately, being that it is night, there are not many pictures to show for it. However, I did finally get to see the elusive porcupine. Three of them in fact. That alone made our little drive a success.
Stay tuned for the final installment of Recipe for a road trip!
Cindy:
I love the baby elephant!!! You are sure giving us lots of ideas for our honeymoon next year!
(05.04.10)
Sara Atkins:
Adorable, isn't he? What is it about baby anything that makes us ladies melt?
(05.05.10)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry:
Recipe for a roadtrip: part 2
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You WILL be fine! What a gift you both will be to Southern California.
(05.26.10)Thank you Yvette! I know we will be fine, it is just the start of another adventure. The nerves do have a way of creeping in though!
(05.26.10)You're both going to fit in just fine. A smile means the same in all languages and places in the world....even LA!
(05.26.10)Thank you! But I am pretty sure that a smile in monkey is a fear sign. Or maybe aggression.
(05.26.10)You'll be fine Sara !! You'll make new friends and no time and build your business too !! Life will keep you plenty busy and I love it up North but Southern offers a different perspective which you'll come to appreciate too !! We both took pictures of Tristen recently !! Love your images... look me up if you get bored and need a guide !! Email me if you'd like !! And... all the best !! No worries.. you'll enjoy your new adventures !! xx Ciao
(05.27.10)Thank you Beatrice! I would love to have a guide, I will definitely be emailing you. It is good to know that I will have at least one friendly face to show me around =)
(05.27.10)I love you and will miss you! But I also know that you will do great anywhere. I also know that LA will discover it has never looked so good as in your pictures.
(05.27.10)Thank you Jenn, I will miss you too!! But I will be back in the Bay area all the time, so there are lots of cups-o-coffee to be had!
(05.27.10)