SLO Town: New Things

Posted on December 4, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello all!

I’ve visited San Luis Obispo many, many times over the years. I’ve become familiar enough with the town that I can find my way around sans Google Maps. I have a list of “must-sees” and “must-dos,” but there’s still countless new places to explore.

This last trip, my girlfriends took me to the family-run winery, Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards. I’ve been to a few vineyards, but none quite like this one. It’s a bit out-of-the-way, found down a winding tree-lined road, and so refreshingly laid back. There’s zero pretension here. The Kelsey family (and their dog, Tessa) can often be found lounging around the backyard tasting area, which also happens to be surrounded by peacocks. In the tasting room proper, you’ll find local artist Colleen Gnos’s mermaid-filled artwork. Jeb accompanied us, and was thrilled to have so many people pay attention to him. He’s great at making new friends, I must say. In a fit of enthusiasm (probably helped by all that wine I drank), I left the winery with three bottles of wine. They had a Black Friday special going on, after all.

Later that same evening, a group of us went out to dinner at the famous Taco Temple in Morro Bay, which is about a 10 mile drive from SLO. What appears to be a salad pictured above, is in fact a single fish taco. They also featured absolutely HUGE $8 burritos. Don’t try picking it up- a fork and knife is definitely needed.

Unfortunately for me, I manage to encounter a new favorite place with every trip to SLO. The only way I can make my way through my whole “to-do” list now is that I stay longer and longer each time I visit.

Sounds like a plan, right? Stayed tuned for tomorrow’s SLO Town: Old Favorites.

EVA♥

Five Things

Posted on December 3, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone!

I’m enjoying a cozy evening at home, with some long-anticipated rain tapping away on the windowpanes. I’ve been listening to the rather ominous Dark Places by Gillian Flynn on audiobook, and just had to turn it off for a minute to take it in the racket all the rain has been making outside. It’s been such a long time, I’ve forgotten what heavy rain sounds like- quite nice, really. This week’s Five Things is, without a doubt, San Luis Obispo-themed. It was where I spent my extended Thanksgiving vacation, after all.

Let’s hop to it:

I’ve rarely encountered a functioning record player, and was totally thrilled to mill through my friends stack of old records. Naturally, I picked Arethea to serenade us while we cooked our Thanksgiving dinner. I’m definitely entertaining the idea of buying one myself now.

One of my favorite stores in downtown San Luis has to be Hands Gallery. It’s filled with the most beautiful, locally made jewelry and art. I love going in and ogling everything, especially this framed poster extolling the virtues of coffee. It kind of is just like buying instant happiness, if you ask me.

This beautiful little card made its way into my hands over this last week. I keep it on top of my dresser so I can see it every morning as I’m putting on my jewelry for the day. I’m lucky enough to have many of these things.

This is Smurf, the most aggressive lap cat I’ve ever met. Now, mind you, she’s not aggressive and lap-oriented, she’s just really serious about getting in your lap and staying there. Don’t try to get up when she’s not ready, she’ll just hold on for dear life. Ouch.

Image via: Brown Butter Cookie Company

During last year’s Thanksgiving in SLO (San Luis Obispo) , I visited the beachside town of Cayucos. I quickly learned that it happens to be home to one of the most delicious cookie companies ever: Brown Butter Cookie Company. You know it’s good when the word “butter” is part of the company’s name. I didn’t get the chance to drive up to Cayucos this year, but I did sample these buttery little cookies in a local shop in SLO.

Nothing’s better than delicious food and good company, if you ask me.

EVA♥

Where did November Go?!

Posted on December 2, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone!

I’m sure many of you, like me, are wondering just where the heck the last month went. Well, it may have come and gone in a blink, but I sure did enjoy the last few days of November.

This is what I was in charge of this Thanksgiving. Yes, I did an excellent job.

It wouldn’t be the holidays without Jeb, the tri-pod dog with the amazing spirit.

Awesome people photos c/o Kira Smith & Perry, the man in black.

My dear friend Maren and I. She has my back. We have plans to grow old together and annoy each other endlessly after our husbands are gone. There are twin rocking chairs on the porch waiting for us in our old age together.

….

In case you missed last year’s Thanksgiving post, my girlfriends and I have a longstanding tradition of celebrating our very own Thanksgiving together. It’s been going on five years now, and keeps getting better. We make a mean turkey, using Oprah’s favorite recipe, and all the fixins.’ Friends Reggie & Jas also joined us this year, and brought along a fantastic holiday cocktail consisting of egg nog, Kahlua, and Jim Beam. This of course means that I did get to try egg nog for the first time ever in my life. It’s like liquid Christmas pudding, really.

We have an annual tradition of taking fabulous photos in front of our dining table, only to later put on pajamas/sweatpants and finally eating our meal. We also like to take some time and go around the table sharing the things we’re thankful for this year. I’m fairly sure that every year I say that I’m so thankful to be able to spend time with the family I’ve chosen for myself. They’re very important people to me, after all. I’m also thankful that my friend Xela (pictured above in the royal blue dress) came through a very serious, recent surgery just fine. She’s a very inspiring human being. In fact, all my girlfriends inspire me. Maren, my college roommate for years, is studying to be a nurse, and is definitely the kind person I would want by my side in any emergency. I’m friggin’ thankful that so many strong women are my friends, and that I get to spend holidays with them.

I hope you all also had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Happy Holidays!

EVA♥

Five Things

Posted on November 26, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello all,

It’s time for the last Five Things of fall! I can’t believe it has gone by so fast, but there you have it. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and I’ll be on the road to my annual “Orphan Thanksgiving” celebration. Of course, while I’m no longer an “orphan” away at college, I’m so thankful that I’ve been able to continue this long-standing tradition with one of my fantastic college roommates Maren. If you can recall, I did write about our lovely Thanksgiving break last year here. I can’t believe it will be little Cooper’s first birthday soon! How time flies- it has a knack for making you feel old.

On to this week’s Five Things!

I picked up this fantastic new ceramic mug at Starbucks earlier today, since my most favorite one met its demise on the school blacktop earlier this week. Apparently, tough studs are my new thing.

People complain that California doesn’t really have four solid seasons, but leaving my house everyday and seeing these autumn leaves scattered everywhere makes me feel awfully festive.

A glimpse at the jewelry I’m currently sporting. The i.d bracelet is well-loved, but the ring is one of my latest purchases. I do love it.

This appeared in my text messages one day. Sent to me from my friend Rachel, I thought it was beautiful both visually, and in sentiment. It’s true, you know.

And, for old time’s sake, I give you “Marcel the Shell with Shoes On” Part III:

It’s the silliest, most random thing, but I bonded over it with some of my lovely students years back. I encourage you to check out parts one and two on Youtube as well, if you’re ever in need of a pick-me-up. Marcel is completely the reason why I want to name my future dog Alan. If you watch part one, you’ll understand the reference. 😉

Happy Holidays, everyone!

EVA♥

Oops, I Did It Again

Posted on November 25, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone!

I apologize for the ridiculously cheesy headline, but it was the first/best thing I could think of at the time. Who doesn’t like a 90’s Britney Spears reference worked into their day?

Well, ladies and gentlemen: I did it again. Want to see my latest, most fabulous love? These puppies:

Yes, I purchased yet another pair of shoes. If you have any complaints, please call 1-800-SORRYNOTSORRY. Thank you.

Of course, when I got home I slapped them right on and commenced taking photos.

Valentino photo c/o Avenue K. Photo on right brought to you by yours truly, in embarrassingly rolled-up jeans.

If you, like me, love perusing the internet for fashion inspiration, you’ve probably seen these Valentino Rockstuds absolutely everywhere. I certainly have, both in real life and online. I’ve passed them countless times going in and out of the local Nordstroms, pausing each time to look at the variety of styles and colors. They’re quite the statement shoe. Unfortunately, the statement comes with a hefty price tag. As much as I would like to strut around San Francisco in a pair of these babies, I would have to relocate for three months in order to pay for them. So, what’s a girl to do?

Well, as luck would have it, I was poking around the DSW website in search of new (unnecessary) boots and I discovered these shoes from BCBG. Hello! I had to have them. Not only were they the deal of the century, they turned out to be ridiculously comfortable despite their intense appearance. I was apprehensive of the style at first, since most pointed-toe pumps make me feel like I’m wearing elf shoes, but these were really quite flattering on. I’ve been brainstorming ways to style these, and I can’t wait to pair them up with jeans and a crisp white shirt, or even to toughen up my favorite fit-n-flare dresses. If you need any more style inspiration, you can find some here, here, and here.

There’s just something wonderful about shoes that many people don’t understand. Wasn’t it Marilyn Monroe who said “give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world?”No matter how you feel, or what you decided to wear that day, a good pair of shoes can make all the difference. As silly as it sounds, they’re one thing you can depend on. Plus, they’re often pretty fabulous.

EVA♥

A Week in Photos

Posted on November 24, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone!

It’s been a while since Watch Me Juggle has seen me- I’ve had the craziest week of all this last week. I’m the absolute worst at saying ‘no’ to projects, so almost every day has been substitute teaching during the day, and picking up extra ballet classes to teach at night. That’s almost 12 continuous hours of standing/running around to the tune of “Miss Eva! Miss Eva! MISS EVA!” It’s really rewarding work, but I’m honestly proud of myself that I got through it. It’s not easy, by any means. Working in public schools has really renewed my appreciation for teaching dance. As much as I love working with the kids in the local schools, it’s truly my goal to be able to throw myself entirely into dance- whether that be running a company or a school, or teaching. It was something I dreamed of doing as a kid, and being able to be creative on a daily basis is truly a blessing.

Oh…and I also got another new job, that happened as well.

cue the bad juggling

Just throw all the balls into the air, and keep them there. That’s apparently my M.O.

Here are some snapshots from my week:

Let’s all just take a moment to appreciate these lemon ricotta pancakes. Wow! I only made it about half-way through these.

On Friday, I had a little time for yoga in the park with the kindergarteners I was teaching for the week. We weren’t sure if we would be able to do it, given the recent weather’s propensity for downpours, but the sun came out just in time. It was wonderful to see them all jump into something new, and like it. I had an amazing brunch the other day with a long-lost girlfriend of mine, and I think we have many standing blow-out appointments in our future together. Despite my crazy week, I also managed to make it out to Hawthorn in San Francisco for cocktails. And, by cocktails I mean reliving my college days by taking shots of tequila. I (embarrassingly enough) spent most of my Saturday shopping, and was in desperate need of a red bull by the end of the day. The trick is just to not sit down! Poof! Instant energy!

Anyway, I can’t say enough amazing things about the supportive people in my life. It’s so heartening to know that I have wonderful people who will back me up, under any circumstances. When things get overwhelming, as they can do sometimes when you have three jobs, it’s important to be able to accept a helping hand. It’s also equally important to “pay it forward,” when the opportunity presents itself. I’m a firm believer in an honest, kind word. I know how those simple things can perk up my day, so I try to keep it moving full-circle.

Now that the craziness has died down, I’m hoping to be back on my regular posting schedule, and have many fun things planned in the upcoming weeks to share. Here’s to adventures, and more adventures!

Hope this finds you well, dear readers.

EVA♥

Retrospective Monday

Posted on November 17, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone.

Today, I wanted to talk to you about some things that I’ve been thinking about recently. I’ve always been a big worrier- always excessively conscientious. Even when positive things come my way, I worry without reason. I’d like to say that I don’t care what other people think, but that’s not nearly true. On the other hand, I’ve never been one to sit around and let other people tell me what to do.

Sometimes it’s so excessively difficult to be confident with the decisions you make. A lot of my personal anxiety comes from the “what if…what if…what ifs?” of daily life. There are some days where I have to talk myself down, and struggle to go about my routines. It’s living moment to moment: just get up, and make some coffee. Now, go wash your face, pick out something to wear, go outside. And on and on… It always gets better, but I wonder if it ever gets easier. Life has a tendency to lob random things at your head, hell, one day my leg might fall off and I might not ever be able to dance again. You never know. I tell myself these things to keep a solid perspective. A close friend of mine is always so positive when it comes to these things, and I asked her where she gets all her good energy from. She, like any of us, has plenty of things to worry or be upset about. She shared some insight with me, but one of the things that stood out to me was this gem (funnily enough, found on said friend’s Pinterest board):

Women in black dress crying

When you, like me, get lost in the “what ifs,” know that life is meant to work out exactly the way it is. Unfortunately, you can’t always pin your happiness on the people in your life, that dream job, or perfect home. I’m sorry, it just doesn’t work like that. You set yourself up for a lot of undue pain that way. Life is going to be messy, occasionally. That being said, I don’t have all the answers- far from it. All I know, the kind of knowledge you have deep in your bones, is that everything is going to be ok.

Just some thoughts.

EVA♥

Lush Haul

Posted on November 14, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone!

Happy Friday! We finally made it! To celebrate, I’m taking a bath and going to bed nice and early. Never thought you would hear that from me now, would you?

I’ve been slightly out of sorts lately. I don’t what it is, but I suddenly felt my muscles seize up on Thursday and couldn’t figure out what was wrong. I tried ibuprofen, Excedrin, and countless cups of coffee. Laying on a heating pad provided me with some temporary relief, as did topical rubs. I finally threw in the towel and went to a chiropractor. She was wonderful and her treatments made me feel loads better. But, you know what she recommended?

Baths.

I knew it! I’m totally justified in saying that baths are one of the best things ever; which is why I take them very seriously, and indulge in the occasional trip to Lush Cosmetics. Lush is one of my very favorite places to get my hair care, skin care, and pamper-products. I absolutely adore Lush products, and, lucky for me, they frequently release new and exciting things around the holidays. During my latest Lush run, I picked up three of their limited-edition holiday bath bombs: Cinders, a spicy cinnamon bomb; Luxury Lush Pud, a cozy lavender-scented explosion of color; and Sparkler, a rose jam scented crackling stick-bomb-thing. I also grabbed one of my favorite soaps, Snow cake. It smells just like an almond cookie, but not in a sickly sweet way, just subtle and comforting. You can even see how they make it in the Lush video below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTcpwKIbCjQ

It’s quite a modest “haul,” embarrassingly enough for me. Lush is set up just like a candy store, with all of its products unwrapped and on display in heaps, so it’s hard for me not to go too overboard. Even though I only purchased a few products, they quickly filled my home with the most amazing scent. I can’t wait to use them.

Have a good weekend! I’ll be in the tub. And back at Lush tomorrow.

EVA♥

Five Things

Posted on November 13, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone!

Congratulations are in order- we’ve made it halfway through the week! Although, some of you have been lucky enough to have a long weekend in honor of Veteran’s Day, so your week may just be starting. I, for one, am jealous, but also can’t complain because I’ve already enjoyed the random weekday off.

This weeks Five Things features quite a lot of coffee- I didn’t intend it that way, but there you have it…

I enjoyed one of the best mocha’s I’ve ever had at the popular Jane Cafe on Fillmore st. on Sunday. I’ve never had marshmallows in my coffee before, but it’s a brilliant idea!

It was my fabulous friend Sarah’s birthday recently, so we’ve made plans to have a girls’ weekend in the near future to celebrate. Stayed tuned, as you’ll undoubtedly see this on the blog soon! Also, please forgive my thumb in the frame. Selfies are harder than they seem.

Here’s a little throwback to last year’s Thanksgiving festivities. Our resident baby, Ewan was busy being adorable, so it’s only a natural response to want to eat him, which you can clearly see. I’m so looking forward to spending some time in San Luis Obispo this year for the holidays.

Oh look! More coffee! Did you know that our local artisan coffee roasters Blue Bottle have a book out? I certainly didn’t.

I give you: the Corpse Reviver from Sens San Francisco. I ended the last week with a much needed cocktail with friends. How they get their logo on the egg white foam of this drink, I’ll never know.

Hope you’re doing well, dear readers. See you again for next week’s Five Things!

EVA♥

Touch the Heart

Posted on November 10, 2014 by 4evamaria

Hello everyone!

I hope you’re doing well, dear readers. The same cannot be said for my little laptop. While she’s still hanging in there, trying to type with both the “n” key and spacebar sticking is incredibly difficult. Sometimes, she also likes to shut down for no reason. I mean, really- how am I supposed to read all the trivia on IMDB when I’m watching a movie on a Friday night?! (Does anyone else do this?) Rude.

Photo c/o Maren Masterson. Dim sum is a must when my girlfriends come to visit!

To the left are some of my favorite sweets: jin duei, or, as I like to call them “sesame balls.” So delicious! Some might have made their way into my purse for later…just saying. I have no shame.

Today, I wanted to write about a little meal that has become near and dear to my heart: Dim Sum. Roughly translated to “touch the heart,” this Cantonese meal is meant to bring people together, even if only over a quick cup of tea. For those of you that aren’t familiar, the dishes are designed to be shared, and are usually carb-heavy in the form of dumplings, buns, or noodles. I love the social aspect of the meal- which is even better if you have some adventurous friends who are willing to try new things. For me, dim sum has become synonymous with comfort food; I tend to stuff myself excessively while attempting to try every dish that comes rolling up in the cart. That’s the other thing: if you appreciate a quick, grab-and-go meal, then dim sum is for you. I usually have food on my table within the first minute of sitting down, I kid you not. First time diners beware: it can be overwhelming if you’re not steadfast on what you do/do not want to eat. Don’t feel bad about declining or asking for something specific! On the other hand, should you find yourself at a table without food for too long, a generous server might just decide to give you whatever they have in their hand. I speak from experience.

Depending on the restaurant, or the people you’re with, there’s always something new. My most recent and favorite discovery has been egg custard buns. I could have these sweet, soft bread buns with a crackly, pineapple-like top filled with egg custard for breakfast every morning! Best when served warm, of course.

Who else would have dim sum every day, if they could?

EVA♥

My dear friend Maren and I. She has my back. We have plans to grow old together and annoy each other endlessly after our husbands are gone. There are twin rocking chairs on the porch waiting for us in our old age together.

*cue the bad juggling*

cue the bad juggling